Master of Life and Death

Published in 1976, 'Master of Life and Death' by Robert Silverberg follows Roy Walton, who becomes the new director of the UN division of population control after his predecessor is assassinated. As he navigates the complexities of population control, terraforming on Venus, and negotiations with extraterrestrial beings, Walton finds himself targeted for assassination. The novel explores themes of power, survival, and the ethical implications of controlling life and death.