The Burning World — Algis Budrys

In a post-revolution world, League President Kimmensen and his protege Bendix face a new threat - the charismatic and ruthless Messerschmidt. As Messerschmidt gains popularity, Kimmensen clings to his fraying legacy. When Messerschmidt rigs an election, Kimmensen and Bendix tamper with results. But their world views collide when the Northwesters attack, and Kimmensen resorts to desperate measures to defend the League's fragile freedom. Amid shifting power dynamics and looming war, Kimmensen must decide which sacrifices are justified to preserve his revolutionary ideals.