Galactic Effectuator by Jack Vance

An Interstellar Sci-Fi Mystery Collection of Corporate Espionage, Rogue Surgeons, and Alien Planets

Across the civilized worlds of the Gaean Reach, Miro Hetzel operates as an "effectuator"—a freelance private investigator who blends stealth, intellect, and tactical leverage to solve complex interstellar crimes. In Galactic Effectuator, Vance collects two of Hetzel's most famous cases:

• "The Dogtown Tourist Agency": Hetzel is hired by a robotics firm to investigate a competitor undercutting their prices. His search leads to the perilous planet Maz—a frontier world inhabited by the warlike Gomaz race—where he uncovers a scheme involving illegal arms trafficking and corporate espionage.
• "Freitzke's Turn": Hetzel takes on a personal case to track down Faurence Dacre, a brilliant but sociopathic surgeon who stole vital anatomical parts from a wealthy client.

Why You’ll Love This Book

Grand Master Jack Vance delivers a masterclass in sci-fi procedural mystery, pairing classic hardboiled detective tropes with his legendary worldbuilding and sardonic wit. Ideal for fans of space opera whodunits, humorous sci-fi mysteries, and classic pulp adventures.