Black Cat Weekly
Mystery and Science Fiction Novels and Short Stories
Part 1 of the Black Cat Weekly series
The Black Cat web site has been around for almost four years now, serving up a weekly buffet of new and classic mysteries-and more recently science fiction-to thousands of readers each week. Rather than continue to release all these novels and stories as individual ebooks, we have decided to bundle them up into a convenient weekly magazine...which is a lot more fun to work on!
So here is Black Cat Weekly #1, the September 5, 2021 issue, for your enjoyment pleasure.
To make the first issue memoriable, we are including a lot more content than usual-double the usual word count, in fact. This time we have no less than three complete novels and 7 short stories-and even a "true crime" feature by Erle Stanley Gardner, creator of Perry Mason!
There's something here for everyone to enjoy, whether you're a fan of traditional mysteries, psychic detectives (in the case of Frank Lovell Nelson's story, a telepathic detective, the first of 12 stories featuring Carlton Clarke from 1908, all of which will run in the Black Cat's pages). Looking for modern detection? We have that, too. And if your taste runs to the fantastic, we also have adventures across parallel worlds and well into the future. (And monsters. Did I mention monsters?)
Included are:
REMISSION, by Michael Bracken
A KEY FOR REBECCA, by Hal Charles
AUROVIA'S FAMOUS LODGE CASE, by Frank Lowell Nelson
THE CASE OF THE KNOCKOUT BULLET, by Erle Stanley Gardner
HAND IN GLOVE, by James Holding
THE SKULL OF THE WALZING CLOWN, by Harry Stephen Keeler
HAVER, by Brian Evenson
A ZLOOR FOR YOUR TROUBLE, by Mack Reynolds
VALLISNERIA MADNESS, by Ralph Milne Farley
LAST CALL FOR DOOMSDAY! by S. M. Tenneshaw
WORLDS OF THE IMPERIUM, by Keith Laumer
Watch for the next issue of Black Cat Weekly-coming soon!
Black Cat Weekly
Part 2 of the Black Cat Weekly series
The second issue of Black Cat Weekly presents more tales of the mysterious and fantastic-four mystery shorts, a complete mystery novel, four science fiction stories, and a fantasy novel, by some of the greatest writers of all time. Here are:
IT'S A MAD, MAD, MAD, MAD GIRL! by Jeff Cohen
THE MYSTERY OF THE TRUST BUILDER, by Frank Lovell Nelson
ALWAYS READ THE FINE PRINT, by Hal Charles
THE TWISTED INN, by Hugh Walpole
FALSE TO ANY MAN, by Leslie Ford
THE TELL, by David Brin
MRS. PIGAFETTA SWIMS WELL, by Reginald Bretnor
THIRTY DAYS HATH SEPTEMBER, by Robert F. Young
THE ALIEN DIES AT DAWN, by Randall Garrett and Robert Silverberg
THE ENCHANTED CRUSADE, by Geoff St. Reynard.
Black Cat Weekly #4
Part 4 of the Black Cat Weekly series
Synopsis
The fourth issue of Black Cat Weekly presents more tales of the mysterious and fantastic-4 mystery shorts, a mystery novel, 2 science fiction stories, a fantasy story, plus a science fiction novel.
Here are:
THE HAMMERING MAN by Edwin Balmer and William MacHarg
FLOORED, by Hal Charles
TWILIGHT LADIES, by Meg Opperman
WEST OF QUARANTINE, by Todhunter Ballard
THE BROTHERS OF THE LEFT HAND PATH, by Frank Lovell Nelson
THE HERPLE IS A HAPPY BEAST, by Paul Di Filippo
THE POWER OF WAKING by Nina Kiriki Hoffman
THE KEEPERS OF THE HOUSE by Lester del Rey
ANDROMEDA GUN by John Boyd
Black Cat Weekly #5
Part 5 of the Black Cat Weekly series
Black Cat Weekly presents another selection of not-to-be-missed mystery and science fiction novels and short stories. With a great lineup of modern and classic fiction, here are-
NOT DONE WITH THE NIGHT by Jay Brandon [mystery short, Barb Goffman Presents]
ROAD TO SAMARRA by Jane Roth [mystery short]
HEIRS AND HOUNDS, by Hal Charles [solve it yourself mystery]
THE SQUARED TRIANGLE, by Frank Lovell Nelson [mystery short]
ONE HOUR LATE, by William O'Farrell [short mystery novel]
TRANSIENTS, by Darrell Schweitzer [science fiction short]
FROM THE WALLS OF IREZUMI by A.R. Morlan [science fiction short]
THE MAN WHO MADE THE WORLD by Richard Matheson [science fiction short]
SLAVES TO THE METAL HORDE, by Stephen Marlowe [short science fiction novel]
Black Cat Weekly #6
Mystery and Science Fiction Novels and Short Stories
Part 6 of the Black Cat Weekly series
Black Cat Weekly #6 features an eclectic mix of original, classic, and rare stories and novels-science fiction, mysteries, fantasy (light and dark), and the uncategorizable. The latest issue is no exception. Here are 2 novels and 10 shorter works:
MR. BIG NOSE, by Martin Suto [mystery short]
THE PASSING OF BIG MAMA MAYHALL, by Bobbi A. Chukran [mystery short]
ONE HOUR, by Dashiell Hammett [mystery short]
IT'S A DATE, by Hal Charles [mystery short]
KEEBAN, by Edwin Balmer [mystery novel]
WISHFUL THINKING, by Barb Goffman [suspense/fantasy short]
MYSTERY OF THE SILVER SKULL, by Frank Lovell Nelson [mystery short]
JEMIMA, by A. R. Morlan [science fiction short]
MAN-SIZE IN MARBLE, by E. Nesbit [fantasy short]
SYMPATHY FOR ZOMBIES, by John Gregory Betancourt [science fiction short]
HOLY CITY OF MARS, by Ralph Milne Farley [science fiction short]
PLANET OF DREAD, by Dwight V. Swain [science novel]
Black Cat Weekly #7
Part 7 of the Black Cat Weekly series
Black Cat Weekly #7 showcases the best new and classic science fiction, fantasy, mysteries, and suspense, with novels and short stories in every weekly issue.
Mysteries
"Death of a Light-Hearted Lady," by Ruth Malone [short story]
"The Soul of the Blue Bokhara," by Frank Lovell Nelson [short story, Carl ton Clarke #7
"Keys to Success," by Hal Charles [Solve-It-Yourself Mystery]
"Mysterious Blues," by Adam Meyer [Barb Goff man Presents Mys tery]
A Killing in Swords, by Reginald Bretnor [novel]
The Secret of Shangore, by Nicholas Carter [novel, Nick Carter series]
Science Fiction & Fantasy
Charlie Tells Another One, by Andy Duncan [short story]
Cat in the Box, by A.R. Morlan [short story]
Sympathy for Mad Scientists, by John Gregory Betancourt [short story]
Guaranteed-Forever! by Frank M. Robinson [short story]
Tyrants of Time, by Stephen Marlowe [pulp science fiction novel]
The Ghost of Guir House, by Charles Willing Beale [Victorian horror novel]
Black Cat Weekly
Part 8 of the Black Cat Weekly series
Black Cat Weekly #8 is now available with another exciting mix of science fiction, fantasy, mystery, and suspense books and short stories. Here are
Mysteries & Suspense
Mystery on Graveyard Head, by Edith Dorian
"Kismet and the Baby Orchid," by Frank Lovell Nelson [short story, Carlton Clarke #8]
"Awake To Fear," by Robert Camp [short story]
"Look It Up," by Hal Charles [Solve-It-Yourself Mystery]
"The Devil's Dooryard," by W.C. Tuttle [historical novella]
Straight to the Goal, by Nicholas Carter [mystery novel]
"The Moon and Marcie Wade," by John M. Floyd [Barb Goffman Presents Mystery]
Science Fiction & Fantasy
"Marsyas in Flanders," by Vernon Lee [fantasy story]
"Sympathy for Wolves," by John Gregory Betancourt [fantasy story]
"The Blackwood Oak," by Stephen Gallagher [science fiction story]
"Perfectly Adjusted," by Gordon R. Dickson [science fiction novella]
The White Isle, Darrell Schweitzer [fantasy novel].
Black Cat Weekly #9
Part 9 of the Black Cat Weekly series
Black Cat Weekly #9 is now available!
Mysteries & Suspense
"Tie Score," by Lee Mayers[short story]
"Lunch Is Served," by Hal Charles [Solve-It-Yourself Mystery]
"Lamplighter by the Sea," by Michael Nethercott [Barb Goffman Presents short story]
Judas Journey, by Lee Roberts [mystery novel]
Special Detective, by John Thomas McIntyre [novel, Ashton-Kirk series]
Science Fiction & Fantasy
"The Wolf Woman,", by H. Bedford-Jones [short story]
"The New Pass," by Amelia B. Edwards [short story]
"Sympathy for Mummies," by John Gregory Betancourt [short story]
"No-Risk Planet," by Stephen Marlowe [short story]
Peril of the Starmen, by Kris Neville [novel]
The Amulet, by A.R. Morlan [novel]
Black Cat Weekly #10
by John Gregory Betancourt
Part 10 of the Black Cat Weekly series
From the editor:
Welcome to *Black Cat Weekly #*10. Carlton Clarke, the famed Chicago telepathic detective, returns to our pages with "The Broken Marconigram." First published in 1915, this tale takes Clarke and Sexton, his "Watson," to New Orleans in search of a friend who's been kidnapped by a Satanic cult. These chronicles of the first "telepathic detective" originally appeared in newspaper syndication across the United States in 1908, and I continue to be impressed by them. There is much here for Sherlock Holmes fans to appreciate.
Our roving mystery editor, Barb Goffman, has tracked down by gem by David Dean, "The Duelist." Plus Hal Charles-the byline of writing team Hal Blythe and Charlie Sweet-contributes another solve-it-yourself mystery.
Prolific pulp author Dale Clark-whose copyrights I purchased some years ago-makes his Weekly debut with a terrific World War II-era tale about an undercover F.B.I agent. I don't think it's ever been reprinted. And science fiction writer Murray Leinster (real name Will Jenkins) contributes one of his rare mysteries, "One Corpse, Guaranteed!" They don't make titles like that any more!
This issue's mystery novel is a Bull-Dog Drummond tale by "Sapper." See my introduction for more info on this series and author.
And that's just the mysteries!
For science fiction fans, we have "The Dangerous Scarecrow," by Carl Jacobi-he was a member of the Lovecraft Circle, whose talents extended far beyond weird fantasy into science fiction. Plus I've snuck in another of my own tales, "Tap Dancing," a gentle ghost story. I never truly understood it when other writers said some stories were "gifts" that just came to them-until this story came to me. George Scithers placed it in the 300th issue of Weird Tales. It was the best thing I had written at that point in my career, and I wrote it almost word for word in its final form in one sitting. Truly it was a gift.
We have not one, but two science fiction novels-Eando Binder's 1971 classic, The Secret of the Red Spot, and Stephen Marlowe's Revolt of the Outworlders. Good stuff.
Here's the complete lineup:
Mysteries
"One Corpse, Guaranteed!" by Murray Leinster [short story]
"Thieves' Blueprint," by Dale Clark [short story]
"Only Time Will Tell," by Hal Charles [Solve-It-Yourself short-short]
"The Duelist," by David Dean [Barb Goffman Presents short story]
Bull-Dog Drummond's Third Round, by Sapper [novel, Bulldog Drummond series]
"The Broken Marconigram," by Frank Lovell Nelson [short story, Carlton Clarke #9]
Science Fiction & Fantasy
"Tap Dancing," by John Gregory Betancourt[short story]
"The Dangerous Scarecrow," by Carl Jacobi [short story]
Revolt of the Outworlds, by Stephen Marlowe [novel]
The Secret of the Red Spot, by Eando Binder [novel]
Black Cat Weekly
Mysteries and Science Fiction in Every Issue!
Part 11 of the Black Cat Weekly series
This issue has been fun to put together. As a Maryland resident, I've always been partial to stories set in my home state, and Golden Age mystery author Zenith Brown is here this time with “Murder in Maryland”, a classic mystery originally published under her "David Frome" pseudonym. (She also wrote as Leslie Ford.) Add to that more mysteries by Hal Charles (another Solve-It-Yourself mystery challenge), Lester Dent (author of the famous Shadow pulp novels), Murray Leinster (whose name most science fiction readers should recognize), plus a great tale by Carolina Garcia-Aguilera (selected by Barb Goffman), and you have a terrific lineup. Alas, I wasn't able to get to another Frank Lovell Nelson story, but his telepathic detective will be back next week.
In the words of TV hucksters, But wait, there's more!
Here's the complete lineup:
Mysteries:
"This Will Slay You," by Dale Clark [novelet]
"Playing by the Rules," by Hal Charles [Solve-It-Yourself Mystery]
"The Pipeline Juggernaut," by Lester Dent [short story]
"Pink Ears," by Murray Leinster [short story]
"The Right Profile," by Carolina Garcia-Aguilera [Barb Goffman Presents Mystery]
“Murder in Maryland”, by Zenith Brown [novel]
Science Fiction & Fantasy:
"The Pipes of Pan," by Lester del Rey [fantasy short story]
"The Incomplete Theft," by Robert Silverberg & Randall Garrett [science fiction short story]
"The Last Guardian of Ru Ishtl," by John Gregory Betancourt [fantasy short story]
"The Battle of the Bells," by Jerome Bixby [fantasy short story]
“Get Off My World”, by Eando Binder [novel]
Black Cat Weekly #12
Mysteries and Science Fiction in Every Issue!
Part 12 of the Black Cat Weekly series
On the mystery side this issue, we have a novel by Elizabeth Sanxay Holding, plus shorts by pulp master Paul Chadwick, rare mysteries from science fiction authors James MacCreigh and Kris Neville, and a Thanksgiving-themed solve-it-yourself puzzle from Hal Charles. Plus Barb Goffman has selected a masterful story by Shelly Dickson Carr to round things out.
On the science fiction and fantasy side, we have a pair of novels from Frank M. Robinson and Lester del Rey, a fantasy bar story from John Gregory Betancourt, and a dark fantasy by British author John Glasby. Here's the lineup-
Mysteries
"A Thanksgiving Mystery," by Hal Charles [A Solve-It-Yourself Mystery]
"The Beacon Hill Suicide," by Shelly Dickson Carr [Barb Goffman Presents short story]
"Model for Manslaughter," by Paul Chadwick [short story]
"Big Talk," by Kris Neville [short story]
"The Good Old Summer Crime," by James MacCreigh [short story]
Speak of the Devil, by Elizabeth Sanxay Holding [novel]
Science Fiction & Fantasy
"Where Dead Men Dream," by John Glasby [short story]
"On the Rocks at Slab's," by John Gregory Betancourt [short story]
Cosmic Saboteur, by Frank M. Robinson [novel]
The Scheme of Things, by Lester del Rey [novel]
Black Cat Weekly #13
Part 13 of the Black Cat Weekly series
Black Cat Weekly #13 presents another terrific lineup of novels and short stories for readers of mystery, science fiction, and fantasy. Here are-
Mysteries / Suspense:
Most Men Don't Kill, by David Alexander {novel}
"A Thanksgiving Mystery," by Hal Charles {Solve-It-Yourself Mystery}
"Black Friday," by R.T. Lawton {Barb Goffman Presents short story}
"A Matter of Science" by Ray Cummings {short story}
A Town Is Drowning, by Frederik Pohl and C.M. Kornbluth {novel}
Science Fiction & Fantasy
"The Truth About Wallpaper," by Robert Bloch {humor}
"You Don't Walk Alone," by Frank M. Robinson {science fiction}
"The Adapters," by Philip High {short story}
The Terror out of Space! by Dwight V. Swain {short novel}
Black Cat Weekly #14
Part 14 of the Black Cat Weekly series
Welcome to Black Cat Weekly #14.
Over the next few issues, you will note a number of changes coming to Black Cat Weekly. We have been expanding our staff of editors, and this issue Michael Brachen brings us his first selection, "A Ship Called Pandora," by Melodie Campbell-which fits neatly in both the science fiction and mystery genres! Barb Goffman has an off week, since we're using one of her own stories-"Whose Wine Is It Anyway?" which was a nominee for the Agatha, Anthony, and Macavity Awards.
Of course, we also have several mystery novels-a Mr. Pinkerton puzzler by Zenith Brown and a classic Nick Carter detective story. And don't miss this issue's Solve-It-Yourself mystery by Hal Charles.
On the science fiction and fantasy side, Michael Brachen brings us his first selection, "A Ship Called Pandora," by Melodie Campbell-which fits neatly in both the science fiction and mystery genres! (No, you're not suffering from deja vu. I'm just repeating myself.) New acquiring editor Darrell Schweitzer makes his first selection for BCW with Tom Purdom's "Madame Pompadour's Blade," which combines French history and magic. (Next issue we hope to have a selection from Cynthia M. Ward, another new acquiring editor who is joining th staff.) Plus we have a classic short by Henry Kutttner, a modern short storoy by the late Larry Tritten, a short novel Edmond Hamilton, and I've snuck in a fantasy of my own, "Dreamtime in Adjaphon."
Here's the complete lineup:
Mysteries / Suspense
"Saving Downtown Abbey," by Hal Charles [Solve-It-Yourself Mystery]
Two Against Scotland Yard, by Zenith Brown [novel]
"Whose Wine Is It Anyway?" by Barb Goffman [short story]
A Cigarette Clue, by Nicholas Carter [novel]
"A Ship Called Pandora," by Melodie Campbell [short story]
Science Fiction & Fantasy
"A Ship Called Pandora," by Melodie Campbell [short story]
"Dreamtime In Adjaphon," by John Gregory Betancourt [short story]
"Hydra," by Henry Kuttner [short story]
"Madame Pompadour's Blade," by Tom Purdom [short story]
"The Dead Woods," by Larry Tritten [short story]
Battle For The Stars, by Edmond Hamilton [short novel]
Black Cat Weekly
Part 16 of the Black Cat Weekly series
Black Cat Weekly 16 is a special holiday issue, featuring three holiday-themed mysteries for your reading pleasure. We didn't have any holiday science fiction or fantasy stories on tap this time, but we will definitely try to do better next year. (Decembers are always a bit chaotic at Wildside Press-we also have to get out the year-end royalties for hundrds of authors.) If you are a fan of classic science fiction, you'll appreciate "The Star Sneak," by Larry Tritten-a Jack Vance parody, unearthed from 1974. And Darrell Schweitzer and Cindy Ward bring in stories by two masters-Michael Swanwick and Nisi Shawn. Tarnished Utopia by Malcolm Jameson is our pulp classic from the legendary Startling Stories magazine.
For the mystery reader, we lead off with my own "Christmas Pit," an entry in my "Pit-Bull" Peter Geller series. Our editors Barb Goffman and Michael Bracken bring in holiday tales (with very similar titles!) by Paige Sleuth and Stacy Woodson. Plus a classic hardboiled story from Frank Kane, and a Mr. Clackworthy story by Christopher B. Booth. And what issue would be complete without a solve-it-yourself story by Hal Charles?
Without further ado, here is the lineup:
Mysteries / Suspense
"A Christmas Pit," by John Gregory Betancourt [short story]
Sister Knows Best, by Hal Charles [Solve-It-Yourself Mystery]
Frame, by Frank Kane [short novel]
"Mr. Clackworthy Forgets His Tonic," by Christopher B. Booth [short story]
"Holiday Holdup," by Paige Sleuth [Barb Goffman Presents short story]
"Holiday Hitman," by Stacy Woodson [Michael Bracken Presents short story]
Science Fiction & Fantasy
"Maggies," by Nisi Shawl [Cynthia M. Ward Presents short story]
"A Small Room in Koboldtown," by Michael Swanwick [Darrell Schweitizer Presents short story]
Tarnished Utopia, by Malcolm Jameson [novel]
"The Star Sneak," by Larry Tritten [short story].
Black Cat Weekly #21
Part 21 of the Black Cat Weekly series
For mystery readers, Michael Bracken brings us an original tale by Eve Fisher-"The Ghost of Eros" features art crime of a most creative sort. Barb Goffman's presents an action-packed tale by David Hagerty. "A Photo's Worth" features an actress, a paparazzo, San Francisco, and scancal-a great read. Hal Charles (the writing team of Hal Blythe and Charlie Sweet) brings us another solve-it-yourself mystery. And we have a classic mystery featuring Madame Storey from Hulbert Footner, and a British suspense novel by Edgar Wallace.
Science fiction and fantasy fans will enjoy a 1950 short novel from Murray Leinster, a classic space opera. Leinster was one of the greats of the science fiction field. He published more than a thousand stories over a distinguished six-decade career. "Planet of the Small Men" is pulp adventure in grand space opera tradition-and one I wish had been expanded to novel length. It's from Thrilling Wonder Stories, and I don't believe it's ever been reprinted. Plus we have dark fantasy stories by Tom Marcinko (Cynthia Ward's selection this issue) and Larry Tritten (whose work we've been running regularly-a real change of pace for him). Plus classics by Malcolm Jameson and Lester del Rey.
Here's the complete lineup:
Mystery / Suspense
"The Ghost Of Eros," by Eve Fisher [short story]
"The Pilfered Pictogram," by Hal Charles [Solve-It-Yourself Mystery]
"A Photo's Worth," by David Hagerty [Barb Goffman Presents short story]
The Almost Perfect Murder, by Hulbert Footner [short novel]
The Strange Countess, by Edgar Wallace [novel]
Science Fiction & Fantasy
"Temperance," by Tom Marcinko [short story]
"Africa Screams, " by Larry Tritten [short story]
"Brimstone Bill," by Malcolm Jameson [short story]
"Dark Mission," by Lester del Rey [short story]
"Planet of the Small Men," by Murray Leinster [short novel]
Black Cat Weekly
Part 22 of the Black Cat Weekly series
Black Cat Weekly #22 features a change of pace fantasy story from Michael Bracken, who is best known for his mysteries and crime stories-selected by Cynthia Ward. It's our featured story this issue. But that's not to say the other science fiction and fantasy stories aren't great, too! "Alien," by Lester del Rey, is a different take on the crash-landed alien who wants to eat everyone around him. And I'm sure you'll get a chuckle from Larry Tritten's gonzo sendup of generic fantasy and science fiction quest stories, "The Lord of the Land Beyond (Book One)." (Hint: don't look for a sequel.) Classics from Unknown by Malcolm Jameson and from Weird Tales by Manley Wade Welllman round out the section.
Mystery readers, too, have a lot to explore. Charlotte Morganti leads off with "Deadly Drama," selected by Michael Bracken-it begins with an accordion festival-rejoice if you like polkas!-but I don't want to say too much. Read it yourself! Barb Goffman brings us "All Prayers Are Answered," a powerful story by Eric Rutter of a homeless man whose friend is murdered. He is drawn into the investigation out of fear a young woman investigating the crime will come to harm-or unearth a terrible secret from his past.
If you like your detectives hardboiled, Frank Kane returns with another Johnny Liddell mystery. Traditional mystery fans will enjoy a Madame Story novel from Hulbert Footner. And western and historical readers will enjoy a great pulp novel by Max Brand.
And of course, where would we be without our solve-it-yourself mystery? Pit your wits against Hal Charles (the writing tream of Hal Blythe and Charlie Sweet) and see if you can solve "The Coin Flip" without reading the solution!
Lastly, "The 'Rexmel," by Ralph Milne Farley, has an improbable invention, but it's not really science fiction, even though it's by a science fiction writer and appeared in a fantasy magazine. Maybe you could call it a pulp sea-story with shaggy dog elements?
Here's the complete lineup:
Mysteries / Suspense / Adventure
"Deadly Drama at the Accordion-o-Rama," by Charlotte Morganti [short story]
"A Coin Flip," by Hal Charles [Solve-It-Yourself Mystery]
"A Package for Mr. Big," by Frank Kane [short novel]
"All Prayers Are Answered," by Eric Rutter [short story]
The Death Notice by Hulbert Footner [novel]
A Shower of Silver, by Max Brand [novel]
"The 'Rexmel'," by Ralph Milne Farley [short story]
Science Fiction & Fantasy
"The Fishmonger's Wife," by Michael Bracken [Cynthia Ward Presents, short story]
"The Lord of the Land Beyond (Book One)," by Larry Tritten [short story]
"Alien," by Lester del Rey [short story]
"Doubled and Redoubled," by Malcolm Jameson [short story]
"Old Dhoh," by Manly Wade Wellman [short story].
Black Cat Weekly #36
Part 36 of the Black Cat Weekly series
Welcome to Black Cat Weekly #36.
We have another great issue featuring not one, but two full-length books-George O. Smith's classic collection of linked science fiction stories, Venus Equilateral, and Hulbert Footner's mystery, Officer!
As always, our acquiring editors have cooked up some delights. From Michael Bracken comes an original police procedural from H.K. Slade, "A Body at the Dam." Barb Goffman has unearthed "Run Don't Run," by Mary Saums, which I know you'll enjoy. And Cynthia Ward brings us "Shattering the Spear," by P. Djèlí Clark, a heroic fantasy story-we need more of these in BCW!
Topping things off, we have another solve-it-yourself mystery from Hal Charles, plus classic reprints by Rog Phillips (Vampires!), Lester del Rey (Superstitions in Space!), and Percy James Brebner (Kidnapping! Secret Agents!) All told, lots of terrific reading.
Here's the lineup:
Mysteries / Suspense / Adventure:
"A Body at the Dam," by H.K. Slade [Michael Bracken Presents short story]
"A Present from the Past," by Hal Charles [solve-it-yourself mystery]
"Run Don't Run," by Mary Saums [Barb Goffman Presents short story]
"The Missing Signorina," by Percy James Brebner [short story]
Officer! by Hulbert Footner [novel]
Science Fiction & Fantasy:
"Shattering the Spear," by P. Djèlí Clark [Cynthia Ward Presents short story]
"Superstition," by Lester del Rey [short story]
"A Vial of Immortality," by Rog Phillips [short story]
Venus Equilateral, by George O. Smith [novel]
Black Cat Weekly
Part 37 of the Black Cat Weekly series
Welcome to Black Cat Weekly #37.
Another hefty issue is in hand, featuring novels and novellas by some of the greats of the mystery and science fiction fields. And, as expected, our acquiring editors have found some true gems. Michael Bracken has selected an original suspense tale from from N. M. Cedeño, Barb Goffman has a mystery from the always-superb Janice Law, and Cynthia Ward has Naomi Kritzer's "Evil Opposite"-a great alternate-universe tale (and our featured story this issue).
Of course, there's lots more-including a tale of the Mounties by Hulbert Footner, a historical adventure from Otis Adelbert Kline, a detective novel featuring Nick Carter, and science fiction and fantasy from George R. Smith (his classic novel The Fourth "R"), Malcolm Jameson, and A.R. Morlan. Plus a solve-it-yourself puzzler from Hal Charles!
Here's the lineup:
Mysteries / Suspense / Adventure:
"Serenity, Courage, Wisdom," by N. M. Cedeño [Michael Bracken Presents short story]
"A Ring of Truth," by Hal Charles [solve-it-yourself mystery]
"Good Girl," by Janice Law [Barb Goffman Presents short story]
The Case of Adam Tasker, by Hulbert Footner [novel]
An Unsolved Mystery, by Nicholas Carter [novel]
"The Dragoman's Confession," by Otis Adelbert Kline [novella]
"Murder in the Time World," by Malcolm Jameson [short story]
Science Fiction & Fantasy:
"Evil Opposite," by Naomi Kritzer [Cynthia Ward Presents short story]
"A Little Pinch Is All You Need," by A.R. Morlan [short story]
"Murder in the Time World," by Malcolm Jameson [short story]
The Fourth "R", by George O. Smith [novel].
Black Cat Weekly
Part 38 of the Black Cat Weekly series
In this issue, we have some real gems-starting with our featured story, “Hope Mirrlees's Lud-in-the-Mist”. It's a true classic of fantasy, acclaimed by critics for generations. Plus, we have a Hashknife Hartley historical adventure novel (okay, you can call it a Western!) from W.C. Tuttle. Our acquiring editors have been busy, too. Michael Bracken snagged an original private eye tale from Laird Long, Barb Goffman found a terrific John M. Floyd story, and Cynthia Ward picked up a great science fiction story by Nisi Shawl and Michael Ehart.
And I've been busy picking out stories, too-just so you don't think I'm resting on the magazine's laurels. This issue has a classic-style detective yarn from new author Saul Golubcow (the first of of three stories we'll be running in this series), plus classic science fiction from Lester del Rey, John W. Campbell Jr., and Otis Adelbert Kline.
Here's the lineup:
Mysteries / Suspense / Adventure:
"Toy Ploy" by Laird Long [Michael Bracken Presents short story]
"A Robber's Craft" by Hal Charles [solve-it-yourself mystery]
"The Cost of Living"by Saul Golubcow [novelet]
"The Barlow Boys" by John M. Floyd [Barb Goffman Presents short story]
“The Buckaroo of Blue Wells”, by W. C. Tuttle [novel]
Science Fiction & Fantasy:
"In Blood and Song" by Nisi Shawl and Michael Ehart [Cynthia Ward Presents short story]
"Shadows of Empire" by Lester del Rey [short story]
"The Immortality Seekers" by John W. Campbell, Jr. [novelet]
"Meteor Men of Mars" by Harry Cord and Otis Adelbert Kline [short story]
“Lud-in-the-Mist”, by Hope Mirrlees [novel]
Black Cat Weekly
Part 39 of the Black Cat Weekly series
Welcome to Black Cat Weekly #39.
It's hard to believe BCW is 39! As with every magazine, our goals include not just entertaining our readers, but making every issue better than the last. I finally feel like we're on top of production methods, and the contents keep offering a selection of great stories for every reader's taste. (If you can't find something you love here, I'd be very surprised.) From classic pulp fiction to modern SF and mysteries (not to mention our ventures into adventure fiction and westerns), we cover all the bases.
Mysteries / Suspense / Adventure:
"Last Seen Heading East" by Joseph S. Walker [Michael Bracken Presents short story]
"A Little Boy Is Missing," by Saul Golubcow [short story]
"A Secret Admirer," by Hal Charles [solve-it-yourself mystery]
"A Close Shave," by Art Taylor [Barb Goffman Presents short story]
The Case of Angus Blair, by Hulbert Footner [novel]
The Affair in Death Valley, by Clifford Knight [novel]
Science Fiction & Fantasy:
"The Last Ride of German Freddie," by Walter Jon Williams [Cynthia Ward Presents short story]
"The Rat Aloft," by John Gregory Betancourt [short story]
"A Question of Salvage," by Malcolm Jameson [novella]
"The Secret of Kralitz," by Henry Kuttner [short story]
"The Monster-God of Mamurth," by Edmond Hamilton [short story].
Black Cat Weekly #40
Part 40 of the Black Cat Weekly series
Once again we have an eclectic mix of stories new and old. Leading off the pack is an original tale by Andrew Welsh-Huggins, "Digging In," as a couple goes to great lengths to save their marriage. It was acquired for BCW by editor Michael Bracken. Barb Goffman found a real crime-story treat by John Lantigua. And we have a novel by Stephen Marlowe, a solve-it-yourself short by Hal Charles, and a classic historical story (yes, another Western-but it's also a mystery) by W.C. Tuttle.
On the science fiction and fantasy end of things, there are two "brain" stories-John W. Campbell's planet-hopping space opera, "The Brain Pirates" and Malcolm Jameson's "Brains for Bricks." Nelson Bond's Lancelot Biggs space-opera hero returns to save the day in "Where Are You, Mr. Biggs?" And one of the kings of space opera, Edmond Hamilton, is back with a change-of-pace fantasy from Weird Tales. Dorothy C. Quick, another WT alum, also contributes a fantasy. Great classic reading.
Here's the lineup:
Mysteries / Suspense / Adventure:
"Digging In," by Andrew Welsh-Huggins [Michael Bracken Presents short story] "A Surprising Treat," by Hal Charles [solve-it-yourself mystery]
"The Avenging Angel," by John Lantigua [Barb Goffman Presents short story]
"The Wisdom of the Ouija," by W.C. Tuttle [short story]
Model for Murder, by Stephen Marlowe" [novel]
Science Fiction & Fantasy:
"Brains for Bricks," by Malcolm Jameson [short story] "The Lost Gods," by Dorothy C. Quick [short story]
"The Brain Pirates," by John W. Campbell, Jr. [novella]
"Dreamer's Worlds," by Edmond Hamilton [short story]
"Where Are You, Mr. Biggs?" by Nelson S. Bond [short story]
Black Cat Weekly
by Elisabeth Sanxay Holding
Part 41 of the Black Cat Weekly series
Welcome to Black Cat Weekly #41.
Lots of great reading this time-including a classic mystery novel by Elizabeth Sanxay Holding. Once you finish it, you can cruise through an original blackmail story by M.A. Monnin set in Germany (thanks to acquiring editor Michael Bracken), then Pat H. Broeske has a Hollywood tale of a missing classic Cadillac (thanks to acquiring editor Barb Goffman). Plus, of course, we have our Hal Charles solve-it-yourself tale.
For science fiction and fantasy fans, we have a historical fantasy from Amy Wolf (courtesy of acquiring editor Cynthia Ward), plus classic science fiction from Lester del Rey and Malcolm Jameson, and two more fantasies from the legendary pulp magazine Weird Tales, by Frank Belknap Long and G.G. Pendarves.
Here's the lineup:
Mystery / Suspense / Adventure:
"A Bird In The Hand," by M.A. Monnin [Michael Bracken Presents short story]
"A Sweet Solution," by Hal Charles [solve-it-yourself mystery]
"The Fast And The Furriest," by Pat H. Broeske [Barb Goffman Presents short story]
Kill Joy, by Elisabeth Sanxay Holding [novel]
Science Fiction & Fantasy:
"The Lazarus Chronicle," by Amy Wolf [Cynthia Ware Presents short story]
"A Code for Sam," by Lester del Rey [short story]
"Devil's Powder," by Malcolm Jameson [short story]
"Werewolf of the Sahara," by G. G. Pendarves [novella]
"The Space-Eaters," by Frank Belknap Long [novella]
Black Cat Weekly
Part 42 of the Black Cat Weekly series
An exciting game is afoot, thanks to acquiring editor Michael Bracken! Yes-we are delighted to present an original Sherlock Holmes story by A.L. Sirois this issue. It's one that only Sirois could write, as Holmes meets no less a person than Bram Stoker! Then the mysteries keep coming with "The Echoes," by Charles John Harper [courtesy of acquiring editor Barb Goffman], plus a mystery novel by Elisabeth Sanxay Holding. And, of course, we have a solve-it-yourself mystery by Hal Charles.
On the fantastic side of things, editor Cynthia Ward has found a steampunk triumph in "Pimp My Airship," by Maurice Broaddus. plus we have science fiction tales by Lester del Rey and George O. Smith, as well as fantasies by Weird Tales alums Manly Wade Wellman, Clifford Ball, and Dorothy Quick.
Here's the complete lineup:
Mysteries / Suspense / Adventure:
"Lady Corwynne's Legacy," by A.L. Sirois [Michael Bracken Presents short story]
"A Present from the Past" by Hal Charles [Solve-It-Yourself Mystery]
"The Echoes" by Charles John Harper [Barb Goffman Presents short story]
Who's Afraid, by Elisabeth Sanxay Holding [novel]
Science Fiction / Fantasy:
"Pimp My Airship," by Maurice Broaddus [Cynthia Ward Presents short story]
"Rescue Team," by Lester del Rey [short story]
"Vocation," by George O. Smith [short story]
"The Liers in Wait," by Manly Wade Wellman [short story]
"The Werewolf Howls," by Clifford Ball [short story]
"The Lost Door," by Dorothy Quick [short story]
Black Cat Weekly #75
Part 75 of the Black Cat Weekly series
Our 75th issue has a pair of original tales for your reading pleasure, one mystery ("Troubled Water," by donalee Moulton, thanks to acquiring editor Michael Bracken) and "The Forbidden Scroll," by Phyllis Ann Karr (a solo adventure by Frostflower from Karr's Frostflower & Thorn series-we had a solo Thorn adventure last issue.] Barb Goffman has selected a cat-themed mystery by Karen Cantwell, plus we have classic mysteries by Hal Meredeth (Sexton Blake) and Norbert Davis (a hardboiled novel). On the science fiction side, we have a great set of tales by George O. Smith, Ray Bradbury, Noel Loomis, and William Tenn…all favorites of mine.
Here's the lineup:
Mystery & Suspense:
"Troubled Water," by donalee Moulton [Michael Bracken Presents short story] "A Death in the Department," by Hal Charles [Solve-It-Yourself Mystery] "The Wizard of Paws," by Karen Cantwell [Barb Goffman Presents short story] "A Confidential Report," by Hal Meredith [Sexton Blake short story] Oh, Murderer Mine, by Norbert Davis [novel]
Science Fiction & Fantasy:
"The Forbidden Scroll," by Phyllis Ann Karr [Frostflower short story] "The Cosmic Jackpot," by George O. Smith [short story] "The Square Pegs," by Ray Bradbury [short story] "Softie," by Noel Loomis [short story] "Consulate," by William Tenn [novelet]
Black Cat Weekly
Part 154 of the Black Cat Weekly series
This issue, we have original mysteries by Albert Tucher (courtesy of Acquiring Editor Michael Bracken) and James Blakey, plus a modern tale by SJ Rozan (courtesy of Acquiring Editor Barb Goffman). For our mystery novel, we have a Golden Age tale set in the Canadian Northwest Territories, The Long Arm of the Mounted, by James French Dorrance. Rounding out the section is a solve-it-yourself puzzler by Hal Charles.
We also have one of Norman Spinrad's occasional "Norman Spinrad at Large" columns-wherein he talks about when (not if) we will find life elsewhere in the universe.
On the science fiction & fantasy front, we have an original collaboration by Paul Di Filippo & Claudio Chillemi, a tale by British fantasy master John S. Glasby, and classic space opera by Nelson Bond (the original version of "Honeymoon in Bedlam," which he later rewrote as a Lancelot Biggs story for Lancelot Biggs: Spaceman), plus tales by William Campbell Gault and Edmond Hamilton. Fun stuff!
Here's the complete lineup-
Mysteries / Suspense / Adventure:
"The Bottle Blonde," by Albert Tucher [Michael Bracken Presents short story]
"The Fatal Founders Day," by Hal Charles [Solve-It-Yourself Mystery]
"New Day Newark," by SJ Rozan [Barb Goffman Presents short story]
"The Five People You Meet in Atlantic City," by James Blakey [short story]
The Long Arm of the Mounted, by James French Dorrance [novel]
Nonfiction:
"Norman Spinrad at Large: Life As We Don't Know It?" by Norman Spinrad
Science Fiction & Fantasy:
"Maximinus Thrax and the Gates of Chaos," by Paul Di Filippo and Claudio Chillemi [short story]
"When Darkness Falls," by John S. Glasby [short story]
"Honeymoon in Bedlam," by Nelson S. Bond [short story] [short story]
"The Woman Obsession," by William Campbell Gault [short story]
The Invisible Master, by Edmond Hamilton [short novel]
Black Cat Weekly
Part 155 of the Black Cat Weekly series
This issue features three original short stories (mysteries by M.A. Monnin [thanks to Acquiring Editor Michael Bracken], and Edd Vick & Manny Frishberg, plus a fantasy story by D J Tyrer), and an original science fiction novel by Thomas A. Easton.
Furthering the mystery section, we also have a great tale by John M. Floyd (thanks to Acquiring Editor Barb Goffman) a classic novel by William J. Burns & Isabel Ostrander, and a solve-it-yourself puzzler from Hal Charles.
Rounding out the science fiction and fantasy selections are a dark fantasy by British master John S. Glasby and a classic by Philip Jose Farmer. Lots of fun.
Here's the complete lineup-
Mysteries / Suspense / Adventure:
"Tick Tock," by M.A. Monnin [Michael Bracken Presents original short story]
"Who Stole the Monopoly Money?" by Hal Charles [Solve-It-Yourself Mystery]
"Molly's Plan," by John M. Floyd [Barb Goffman Presents short story]
"Time and Tide," by Edd Vick and Manny Frishberg [original short story]
The Crevice, by William J. Burns and Isabel Ostrander [novel]
Science Fiction & Fantasy:
"The Ring of Tsimblier," by D J Tyrer [original short story]
"In the Midst of Night," John S. Glasby [short story]
"Lancelot Biggs: Master Navigator," by Nelson S. Bond [short story, Lancelot Biggs series]
"The Wounded," by Philip José Farmer [short story]
Configuration Hacks, by Thomas A. Easton [original novel]