Threshold is a science-fiction book written in 1985 by David R. Palmer. It was his second book, following Emergence.

Threshold is a space opera novel, involving interstellar intrigue, mysteriously alluring space aliens, and a hero who is larger than life. Its protagonist; the penultimate issue of amillenia long alien breeding program: Peter Cory, Billionaire, hard driving adventurer, and unrequited rescuer of damsels. (Due to a "clerical" error in the program, his future wife was born late and is now only a child, but there is no time to wait.) One of the aliens, a wWyh'j named Megonthalyä (Meg) and her obese feline familiar (Memphis) come to earth to enlist Peters help.

Due to what they call a 'racial mental block' a quasi-immortal race called the Isi are unable to prevent a galactic catastrophe. The Isi think humanity (specifically Peter) will help them overcome this hurdle, hence the books classic opening line "Peter, we are losing Armageddon..." Unless he joins forces with them "... the galaxy is doomed...!"

While Peter (and the reader) is understandably skeptical, the talking cat, as well as a crash course in telepathy rapidly convince him of Meg's sincerity. Soon our hero is using his uniquely human perspective to unveil new applications of ancient Isi mental powers, and develops some startling new abilities. Armed with complete control of his cellular structure (which allows for slow but complete cellular metamorphosis), and a gnNäáq which allows the mental manipulation of electrical energy, Peter and Meg travel to Meg's home planet of Isis where he will be taught the "mMj'q" (Magic) necessary to help save the galaxy from its impending destruction.

Writing in what can only be described in a "Heinlein-esque" style, Palmer deliberately plays with sci-fi conventions. Ex: renaming common terms such as witch, familiar, magic into alien words. He also turns several clichés on their ear, giving the reader a delightful trip through our protagonists ego as he travels across a decidely hostile planet. Touted as the first book in a series, subsiquent novels have yet to materialize. Internet rumors abound as to causes for the delay(from publisher disputes, loosing drive after the poor reception of the first book, etc), but unverified reports say Palmer plans to return to writing after he retires from his profession (court-reporter). Some claim that the sequil "To Halt Armageddon" is still forthcoming.

Space opera