Black Cat Weekly #188

We’ve assembled an amazing selection of stories for readers who love variety. First up, five mystery stories: an original set in the glamorous world of film by Elizabeth Elwood (thanks to Acquiring Editor Michael Bracken), a gripping pulp thriller by Richard Deming, a moonshine-drenched tale from David Heska Wanbli Weiden (thanks to Acquiring Editor Barb Goffman), and a dark crime story by Donald A. Ranard. And, of course, no issue would be complete without a new solve-it-yourself puzzler by Hal Charles.

We also have a heavier than usual focus on fantasy, with dark tales by Gary Battershell and John S. Glasby, a comedy-adventure in Monty Python style from Henry Herz, and a legendary fantasy novel by E.R. Eddison. We haven’t completely forgotten science fiction lovers, though. Here’s the next adventure of E.C. Tubb’s “Space Hobo”—this time on Venus.

Here’s the complete lineup:

Cover Art: Ron Miller

NOVEL

The Worm Ouroboros, by E.R. Eddison

It’s one of the greatest fantasies of the 20th century.

NOVELETS

“Strangers in the House,” by Richard Deming

A newlywed man fights ruthless thugs to save his wife.

“The Crimson Evil,” by John S. Glasby

Ancient evil awakens, turning a peaceful English village into Hell on Earth!

SOLVE-IT-YOURSELF MYSTERY

“Who Pilfered the Coffee Pot?” by Hal Charles

Can you solve the mystery before the detective? All the clues are there!

SHORT STORIES

“The Makeup Artist,” by Elizabeth Elwood [Michael Bracken Presents]

Murder strikes a cliffside mansion; beauty conceals deadly secrets.

“Hooch,” by David Heska Wanbli Weiden [Barb Goffman Presents]

In a risky moonshine deal, trouble brews faster than whiskey flows!

“A New and Better Me,” by Donald A. Ranard

A desperate man seeks change, but transformation has a dark cost…

“The Witch of Bear Creek,” by Gary Battershell

A haunting legend returns when campers disturb an ancient curse.

“Orpheus and the Golden Fleece,” by Henry Herz

An epic quest combines ancient Greek myths with a lot of…SPAM?

“Venus for Never,” by E.C. Tubb [Space Hobo #4]

On Venus, greed rules—but one drifter dreams of a better tomorrow.