Books like Dark Piper by Andre Norton

Griss Lugard has been away from Beltane for ten years, and when he finally returns he finds a planet largely untouched by the destruction that has devastated the Confederation’s other worlds. The Beltaneans remain focused on biological research into mutation, a field in which the planet had a reputation. Lugard warns his home planet of the threat posed by lawless off‑world elements, but his cautions are largely ignored. Only Vere Collis and his nine young friends believe Lugard, drawn by his charisma and promise of exploring unexplored desert caves. When a series of explosions devastates Beltane, killing Lugard and trapping the group underground, they must rely on each other to survive the ensuing fear, despair, and tangible enemies. After battling for survival, they reach the surface to find that all other humans have perished, leaving only strange and potentially hostile mutants. The story blends science‑fiction adventure with themes of survival, apocalypse, and the end of civilization, showcasing Andre Norton’s imaginative narrative style.

First publish date: 1968