New Releases by Ron Miller

This issue, we have 9 tales to excite, thrill, and amaze, with original contributions from frequent contributors Ron Miller, Hal Charles, Teel James Glenn, and A.L. Sirois, plus a newcomer to our pages, Sherry Teitelbaum. Plus we have classics from “Carolyn Keene” (pseudonymously written by Mildred Wirt), Harry Harrison, and Gordon MacCreagh. Here’s the complete lineup— Cover Art by: Ron Miller NOVELS The Bungalow Mystery, by Carolyn Keene [Nancy Drew series] Nancy’s third outing as an amateur sleuth. NOVELETS “Velda Goes South,” by Ron Miller [Velda, P.I. series] South Boston looks sweet...until the tobacco barrels start talking... “The Ebony Juju,” by Gordon MacCreagh [Kingi Bwana series] A 1930 pulp mystery-adventure by a real African explorer. SOLVE-IT-YOURSELF MYSTERY “The Mystery Writer''s Last Mystery,” by Hal Charles Can you solve the mystery before the detective? All the clues are there! SHORT STORIES “Deadman’s Falls,” by Hal Charles One phone call. One long-dead name. One impossible mystery... “Hitchhiker,” by Harry Harrison A stolen child, an empty desert road, and a hitchhiker collide! “What Would Synbad Do?” by Teel James Glenn Pirates close in, debts loom—and a lost island appears in the mist... “The Forgotten,” by Sherry Teitelbaum Escape is easy. Living with what was done to you is harder. “Last Dance,” by A.L. Sirois What happens when a sky troupe’s secret can’t stay airborne anymore?

This issue, we have a pair of Irish-themed stories (one dark, one light) by Christina Hoag and David Dean to welcome St. Patrick’s Day. Of course, there’s plenty more original fiction, too: tales by Ron Miller, Grant Tracey, Susan Shwartz, and CJ Erick, plus a new solve-it-yourself puzzler from Hal Charles. And, as always, we have some classics, too: science fiction shorts from Philip E. High and Sam Merwin, Jr., plus a mystery by Ernest Bramah (a fixup novel featuring nine adventures of Max Carrados). Here’s the complete lineup— Cover Art by: Ron Miller NOVEL THE EYES OF MAX CARRADOS, by Ernest Bramah [Max Carrados series] Nine classic cases featuring the blind British detective. SOLVE-IT-YOURSELF MYSTERY “The Krazy Killer Condiment Caper,” by Hal Charles Can you solve the mystery before the detective? All the clues are there! SHORT STORIES “A Debt of Silence,” by Christina Hoag A Belfast exile faces the deadly cost of an old silence. “Leprechaun,” by David Dean [Barb Goffman Presents short story] An abducted grandfather aims to keep his gold and family safe...with the luck of the Irish. “What’s Your 20?” by Grant Tracey Snow falls, dawn nears, and a desperate search turns suddenly deadly. “Butter Safe Than Sorry,” by Ron Miller [Velda P.I. series] One dead tenant. One odd clue. One very dangerous question indeed. “Mussorgsky on Mars,” by Susan Shwartz On Mars, survival may depend on more than air and luck... “Her Name Was Nimble,” by CJ Erick Nimble runs toward danger and finds the city’s hidden underworld. “Risk Economy,” by Philip E. High He came home to Earth—and found a world beyond nightmare. “Pink Grass Planet,” by Sam Merwin, Jr. Love, comfort, and a home planet that no longer feels quite like home...

We’re sunk deep in ice and snow at the moment, but luckily we have power and Internet service and can work to get the new issue out. And it’s a good one, anchored by original tales from Michael Bracken, Peter DiChellis, Ron Miller, Michael Palmeri, and Nick Manzolillo. Plus we have rare tales from British masters Philip E. High and John S. Glasby, plus another from U.S. author Larry Tritten. Our classic science fiction tale is by Katherine MacLean. Here’s the complete lineup— Cover Art by: Ron Miller NOVEL Strong Poison, by Dorothy L. Sayers [Lord Peter Wimsey series] Fifth volume in the classic mystery series! SOLVE-IT-YOURSELF MYSTERY “An Ounce of Prevention,” by Hal Charles Can you solve the mystery before the detective? All the clues are there! SHORT STORIES “Collateral Damage,” by Michael Bracken Who is the real victim when the local burger joint is gutted for cash? “Inside a Locked Room,” by Peter DiChellis The door was bolted from the inside. How did the murderer escape? “Velda Gets the Drop on the D.A.,” by Ron Miller [Velda P.I. series] A murder, a rifle, a rich suspect—who’s really pulling strings here? “Making Noise,” by Michael Palmeri In a perfect suburb, the loudest problem may be the least of them... “Baby Tyrants,” by Nick Manzolillo Would you kill a baby to save the world? Locke must decide...tonight. “How Do You Like Your Blue-eyed Boy, Mr. Death?” by Larry Tritten What if the last survivor isn’t spared by chance, but by design?. “Topside,” by Philip E. High After a thousand years, Earth is no longer human. Can we take it back? “A House of Unreason,” by John S. Glasby He came to solve a case of shock—then the house locked him inside. “The Snowball Effect,” by Katherine MacLean One equation turns a sleepy little sewing club into a runaway movement.

This is our final Christmas issue of 2025, and it features an extra helping of holiday stories. On behalf of the whole staff, we wish you a merry holiday season and much joy in the coming year. Black Cat Weekly is very much a team effort, and thanks to everyone who helped make this year a success: our Art Director, Ron Miller; our Acquiring Editors, Barb Goffman, Michael Bracken, Paul Di Filippo, Darrell Schweitzer, and Cynthia M. Ward; and our editorial board, Thomas A. Easton, Ryan Hines, Paula Messina, and Richard Prosch. Now, to the issue at hand. Here’s the complete lineup— Cover Art: Ron Miller NOVELS Velda, by Ron Miller [Part 1 of 2] P.I. Velda finally gets her own novel! The Tomorrow People, by Judith Merril First contact wasn’t what anyone expected. It was better. SOLVE-IT-YOURSELF MYSTERY “Snow Job,” by Hal Charles Can you solve the mystery before the detective? All the clues are there! SHORT STORIES “One Night Stand,” by Steve Liskow One band. One campaign. One haunted mansion. What could go wrong? “Murder by the Creek,” by H.K. Slade [Barb Goffman Presents short story] A fake gold amulet...and a murder only an old cop’s gut can solve now. “Christmas at Stornay’s,” by Marcelle Dubé All she wanted was her phone. What she found was something far worse. “Christmas Tree Detail,” by Johnston McCulley Can a simple Christmas tree save a group of soldiers from an attack? “A Christmas Fable,” by Ron Miller A dying town. A broken teacher. One boy who still believes in gifts... “Santa Takes a Hit,” by Susan Love Brown Can an HOA chair stop Santa from landing on his roof this Christmas? “An Exciting Christmas Eve,” by Arthur Conan Doyle It would have been a quiet Christmas Eve, except for the anarchists... “The Mansion of Akamu Wa,” by Edmund Glasby Cleansing haunted properties is his job. This one might be his last.

This issue is another Halloween special, with enough extra-spooky stories to provide seasonal thrills. We are sure you will enjoy it. Here’s the complete lineup— Cover Art: Ron Miller NOVELS Faulkner’s Folly, by Carolyn Wells [Alan Ford #2] The perfect murder, an impossible crime...and everyone’s a suspect! Mr. Justice Maxell, by Edgar Wallace Can a man of the law escape a criminal conspiracy he helped create? NOVELET “The Shadow Out of Time,” by H.P. Lovecraft An ancient race conquered time itself. Is humanity their next victim? SOLVE-IT-YOURSELF MYSTERY “The Witches of Shadow Falls,” by Hal Charles Can you solve the mystery before the detective? All the clues are there! SHORT STORIES “Hammer Head,” by Laird Long [Michael Bracken Presents short story] His music career is over. Now on a bus home, his fists find new work. “Designed for Death,” by Alan Irvine Two routine cases on a space station merge into one deadly conspiracy. “The Serpent Ring,” by John S. Glasby Such a string of fatal accidents couldn’t all be coincidental... “In the Belly of the Baby Grand,” by Darren O. Godfrey What if the only escape from your life was the end of the world...? “Love Potion Number 19,” by Sandra Skalski A fake love potion, a fraternity of hopefuls, and a lot of nuts. “The Phantom of Ward 7,” by Ron Miller His arms are gone, but he can still feel them. And they want revenge... “The Shadow over Jordan Lake,” by Daniel Kason Dad’s DNA test said he was 1% fish. Another practical joke?

This issue, we have the first of Robert Reginald’s sequel to H.G. Wells’s The War of the World. (It’s a thriller!) And that’s only the beginning. We have quite a few returning authors—Joseph S. Walker (thanks to Acquiring Editor Barb Goffman) celebrates Talk Like a Pirate Day, Mary Jo Rabe has a historical crime story, Ron Miller has a double header with a new Velda, P.I. story, and a science fiction tale. Plus we have classics by Roy Norton, Henry Leverage, Murray Leinster, and W.W. Fenn. A cat tale by A.R. Morland and a new solve-it-yourself puzzler from Hal Charles complete the issue. Here’s the complete lineup— Cover Art: Ron Miller NOVEL Invasion: Earth vs. the Aliens, by Robert Reginald The Martians return for a second round of the War of the Worlds! SOLVE-IT-YOURSELF MYSTERY “The Cats’ Whiskers,” by Hal Charles Can you solve the mystery before the detective? All the clues are there! ufeff SHORT STORIES “Abduction,” by Mary Jo Rabe When the Gestapo comes for her neighbor, her only choice is to lie… “What We Talk Like When We Talk Like a Pirate,” Joseph S. Walker [Barb Goffman Presents short story] Poker night goes awry when the dealer shows what real pirates do. “Velda and the Prisoner of Zendaville,” by Ron Miller [Velda, P.I series] Can a tough P.I. impersonate a missing heiress to save a whole town? “The Lost Charm,” by Roy Norton A simple stagecoach robbery hides a conspiracy to steal a man’s future. “Beyond the Wall,” by Henry Leverage [Chester Fay series] He broke out of prison for freedom but stayed for a dying man’s promise… “The Cat with the Tulip Face,” by A.R. Morlan What do you do when the strange, ugly kitten you rescued can actually fly? “Captain Judikha and the Brain-Crystals,” Ron Miller Someone is rewriting reality, and the trail leads to a dead world… “This Star Shall Be Free,” by Murray Leinster To study a primitive race, aliens gift a caveman with advanced tech… “The Ghost in the Gallery,” by W.W. Fenn Every night he performs, a ghost in the gallery waits for him to fall…

With Labor Day almost here, it seems especially fitting to publish a Labor Day story in this issue: Shannon Taft’s “Downhill,” brought to us by Acquiring Editor Barb Goffman. But the fun doesn’t stop there. We have more originals from Paula Messina, Ron Miller (a new Velda P.I. story), Karl Dandenell, Kent J. Moore, and Zachary Reger, plus a new solve-it-yourself puzzler from Hal Charles. Classics include novels by Edgar Wallace and Olive Harper, as well as shorts from Lemuel De Bra and Bryce Walton. Good stuff! Here’s this issue’s lineup— Cover Art: Stephen Hickman NOVELS The Tomb of Ts’in, by Edgar Wallace A secret tomb hides ancient riches—and deadly secrets best left buried. The Sociable Ghost, by Olive Harper A reporter finds himself involved with ghosts! NOVELET “Velda Wins a Prize,” by Ron Miller [Velda series] When Miss Methylated 1952 hits Margate, a sinister secret surfaces! SOLVE-IT-YOURSELF MYSTERY “Right on the Money,” by Hal Charles Can you solve the mystery before the detective? All the clues are there! SHORT STORIES “How to Finance an African Safari,” by Paula Messina A wily widow finds creative ways to fund her dream trip abroad… “Downhill,” by Shannon Taft [Barb Goffman Presents short story] On Labor Day, a fatal scooter crash hides careful, chilling sabotage. “Blue Eyes and Diamonds,” by Lemuel De Bra A desperate wife schemes with a detective to cover her shameful secret. “When the Third Bell Rings,” by Karl Dandenell Chased by magic hounds, Paheet begs the sun priests for sanctuary. “Feat of Clay,” by Kent J. Moore A gallery night turns tense as a statue draws the wrong eyes—and whispers… “Between Two Lions,” by Zachary Reger The midnight library calls, and crows answer with courage and doubt. “Victorious Failure,” by Bryce Walton His breakthrough unravels when time itself conspires against him!

This time, we have another full issue, with classic novels by Victor Bridges and Justin Huntly McCarthy, a novelet by British horror maestro John S. Glasby, and shorts by Sierra Bibi, Ron Miller, Hal Meredith, Richard Deming, Nicky Nielsen, Tom Easton, Bud Pharo, and Marcelle Dubé. Plus, of course, a brand new solve-it-yourself puzzler from Hal Charles. Lots of fun! Here''s the complete lineup— Cover Art: Steve Hickman NOVELS The Red Lodge, by Victor Bridges [classic mystery] A young doctor''s attempt to help his mentor leads to mystery, romance—and murder! The Dryad, by Justin Huntly McCarthy [classic fantasy] A knight''s enchantment, a forest maiden''s love, and ancient gods'' last stand... NOVELET "Things of the Dark," by John S. Glasby When an ancient evil awakens in the snow, a mountain rescue turns into a nightmare... SOLVE-IT-YOURSELF MYSTERY "By the Numbers," by Hal Charles Can you solve the mystery before the detective? All the clues are there! SHORT STORIES "The Sovereign Individual," by Sierra Bibi A billionaire''s bodyguard faces impossible choices during society''s collapse. "Velda on the Ropes," by Ron Miller [P.I. Velda series] A rigged fight, a sudden death—and Velda''s on the case again. "The Man in the Blue Blouse," by Hal Meredith [Sexton Blake series] Blake unravels a cunning murder plot involving a baboon and a bloody sword-cane. "Mugger Murder," by Richard Deming A routine self-defense case raises disturbing questions for a detective. "Helping Hands," by Nicky Nielsen The Venus de Milo grows arms nightly. No one must ever know! "Diamonds in the Air," by Tom Easton An out-of-work accountant uncovers a secret that defies his reality. "The Epeius Trap," by Marcelle Dubé What killed everyone aboard the salvage station? "An Icy Reception" by Bud Pharo A synthetic engineer faces deadly prejudice at a remote lunar mining facility.

This issue, we have a pair of Golden Age novels—one mystery, one fantasy—from two of the greats, Edgar Wallace (who created King Kong, among other things) and H. de Vere Stacpoole (author of The Blue Lagoon). But the short stories are no slouches, either: tales by modern greats like Robert Lopresti and Joseph S. Walker (thanks to Acquiring Editors Michael Bracken and Barb Goffman), and Ron Miller, alongside newcomers like KB Willson and Sarah EA Hart. Plus we have classics by John S. Glasby, E.C. Tubb, and space opera from Edmond Hamilton. And, of course, an original solve-it-yourself mystery from Hal Charles. Fun stuff! Here’s the complete lineup— NOVELS The Dark Eyes of London, by Edgar Wallace A British Detective Inspector investigates suspicious drownings… The City in the Sea, by H. de Vere Stacpoole Two castaways discover a lost city hiding strange secrets beneath waves. SOLVE-IT-YOURSELF MYSTERY “The Game’s A-Foot,” by Hal Charles Can you solve the mystery before the detective? All the clues are there! SHORT STORIES “The Chortling Man,” by Robert Lopresti [Michael Bracken Presents short story] A retired cop joins a secret club of criminals—but can he solve their puzzles? “Etta at the End of the World,” by Joseph S. Walker [Barb Goffman Presents short story] On the run from her past, Etta finds redemption facing someone else’s demons. “Velda Goes to Hollywood,” by Ron Miller [Velda P.I. series] A tough detective’s Hollywood dreams turn dark after murder steals the show. “Pulse,” by KB Willson A woman wakes nightly at 4:44 a.m. Someone—or something—wants her up… “Roseheath,” by Sarah EA Hart A stormy night…an abandoned asylum…and secrets that refuse to stay buried… “One Every Minute,” by E.C. Tubb [Space Hobo series] A slick salesman falls for a con that turns his dreams to dangerous dust. “Corsairs of the Cosmos,” by Edmond Hamilton Extra-galactic space pirates are stealing our stars. Can the Patrol stop them? “A Place of Madness,” by John S. Glasby Two men confront evil in an ancient churchyard…a place where death isn’t the end!

This time, we have a pair of novels. First up is Ellery Queen’s The Roman Hat Mystery, originally published in 1929. It made quite an impact upon publication and launched the career of an iconic sleuth. While not quite on par with Sherlock Holmes, Ellery is certainly one of the great American fictional detectives, up there with Nero Wolfe, Nick Carter, and Philo Vance (and arguable at the head of the crowd). Our second novel is the first volume of Lin Carter’s epic Gondwane saga, The Warrior of World’s End. It’s a far-future science-fantasy sword-and-sorcery novel. (Try saying that three times fast!) If you like action-adventure fantasy in the tradition of Edgar Rice Burroughs, you can’t go wrong. And we’ll have the rest of the series in future volumes. As for the short stories, we have lots of returning favorite authors this issue, including Ron Miller (with a new Velda P.I. story), Andrew Welsh-Huggins (with an original mystery, thanks to Acquiring Editor Michael Bracken), Shannon Taft (another original, thanks to Acquiring Editor Barb Goffman), and Veronica Leigh (with a new Smith Sisters story). New to BCW are Zary Fekete and Phil Giunta (though we hope to see more from them in the future). And, of course, we have a new solve-it-yourself mystery from Hal Charles and a classic sci-fi tale from Robert F. Young. Lots of good stuff, as always. Here’s the complete lineup— NOVELS The Roman Hat Mystery, by Ellery Queen In a Broadway theater, a prominent lawyer is found dead, and his missing hat may be key to unraveling a baffling murder mystery. The Warrior of World’s End, by Lin Carter A warrior awakens in a distant future, embarking on a surreal journey across a world shaped by ancient technologies, strange beasts, and forgotten sorcery. SOLVE-IT-YOURSELF MYSTERY “Tree of Paradise,” by Hal Charles Can you solve the mystery before the detective? All the clues are there! SHORT STORIES “The Hunt,” by Andrew Welsh-Huggins [Michael Bracken Presents short story] On a deserted trail, a shadowy figure stalks human prey—until the tables turn. “Missing,” Shannon Taft [Barb Goffman Presents short story] A tourist’s mother vanishes from a luxury Bed and Breakfast… “Velda Gets Framed,” by Ron Miller [Velda series] Velda’s meeting in a rundown office leads to a locked-room murder, a setup—and sizzling intrigue. “Red Summer,” by Veronica Leigh [Smith Sisters series] In 1919 Indiana, the Smith sisters uncover dark truths while seeking justice for a murder. “The World Beneath the Page,” by Zary Fekete Elaine escapes her mundane life by stepping into the world of her book, only to uncover unsettling secrets… “In the Span of a Heartbeat,” by Phil Giunta A team’s mission on a desolate planetoid unravels into danger, discovery, and personal reckoning. “Plane Jane,” by Robert F. Young A man questions reality, identity, and truth as he unravels the mysteries of two worlds.

This issue, things lean a bit heavier into science fiction and fantasy than usual. The action starts with the return of Sir Galahad (only 1,500 years late!) as he encounters the modern world. We also have a pair of very different time-travel tales from Philip E. High and Nelson S. Bond. E.C. Tubb’s story hasn’t been reprinted since its first publication, so we’re delighted to reintroduce it to the world. And topping things off is the conclusion of our book serial by Edmund Glasby. But don’t despair—Glasby’s novel is the first of a trilogy, and we begin serializing Book 2 in the next issue. There’s a lot happening on the mystery end of things, too. First, Acquiring Editors Michael Bracken and Barb Goffman have lined up great tales from Eve Fisher and R.T. Lawton. Plus we have originals from Robert Lopresti and Ron Miller (another in his Velda P.I. series). And, of course, we have a brand new solve-it-yourself mystery from Hal Charles. Great fun! Here’s the complete lineup— NOVELS Gods of the Jungle, by Nelson S. Bond [complete in this issue] Two American pilots discover the jungles of Cambodia hold the secrets of a lost civilization—including time travel! The Pale Galilean, by Edmund Glasby [Part 2 of 2] Brother Santiago finds himself in a strange fantasy world plagued by demonic creatures. SOLVE-IT-YOURSELF MYSTERY “A Pickleball Perplex,” by Hal Charles Can you solve the mystery before the detective? All the clues are there! SHORT STORIES “Lady With a Past,” by Eve Fisher [Michael Bracken Presents short story] A chance meeting leads to romance for Officer Tripp and a woman with a past… “Vet’s Day,” by R.T. Lawton [Barb Goffman Presents short story] When a veteran asks his old partner to help break a dog out of an upscale vet’s office, things go hilariously awry! “Shanks Gets Lost,” by Robert Lopresti [Shanks series] Mystery writer Leopold Longshanks’s search has a bizarre misadventure involving a cash-strapped stranger, cryptic family feuds, and unexpected run-ins with the police… “Velda and the Thirteen Feathers,” by Ron Miller [Velda series] Velda investigates arson—uncovering sinister secrets, ruthless suspects, and deadly clues—including thirteen feathers! “Galahad Returns,” by Larry Hodges After centuries seeking the Holy Grail, Sir Galahad returns, ready for Camelot but landing in modern-day America instead… “Routine Exercise,” by Philip E. High During a routine drill, the nuclear submarine Taurus takes an impossible journey through time… “The Robbers,” by E.C. Tubb Tony defies his parents and joins the Service, a mysterious force recruiting Earth’s disaffected youth. But why are they teaching such primitive skills?

Velda Bellinghausen is a tough, no-nonsense private investigator whose cases never seem to take her far from home. But when a murder happens two floors down from her apartment at the Zenobia Arms, she''s reluctantly pulled into a twisted mystery. Lonnie Porff, a gambler with a shady reputation, is found shot in his bed, and his wife, Ethelreda, claims an unknown man did it. As Velda starts asking questions, she uncovers a tangled web of secrets involving three housewives, greed, and betrayal. Can Velda untangle the truth before she becomes the next target?

MYSTERIES / SUSPENSE / ADVENTURE “Promised Land” by Andrew Welsh-Huggins [Michael Bracken Presents short story] Security specialist Erie Hollar uncovers a sinister conspiracy on the moon’s Shackleton City. After discovering a body and surviving a brutal attack, Erie races against time to unravel the truth, dodging dangerous enemies and bureaucratic traps in a tense, moonlit sci-fi mystery. “The Great Diet Duplicity,” by Hal Charles [Solve It Yourself Mystery] Detective Kelly Stone investigates the theft of a cash prize at a dieting club’s annual weigh-in. Amid fire alarms and diet debates, can you solve the case before she does? “Murder of a Slumlord,” by Marc Egnal [Short Story] Detective Darryn Clark investigates the high-profile murder of a notorious slumlord in North Philadelphia. Amid a complex web of corruption and hidden motives, Darryn uncovers shocking secrets behind the crime. “Velda and the Three Happy Housewives,” by Ron Miller [Short Story] Private eye Velda’s latest case starts too close to home—just two floors down. What begins as a routine domestic disturbance quickly spirals into a tangled web of deceit, murder, and unlikely allies. A Mediterranean Mystery, by Fred E. Wynne [novel] A respectable English vicar finds himself embroiled in international intrigue and smuggling when he joins his wayward brother on a Mediterranean voyage. A thrilling tale of adventure, morality, and redemption. SCIENCE FICTION / FANTASY “Materialist,” by Janet Fox [short story] Barbara married for wealth, but after her grasping, elderly husband finally dies, a series of mysterious disasters unfolds. With a growing sense of dread, Barbara realizes the dead may hold more power than she ever imagined. “The Elevator Operator,” by Donald M. Munro [Barb Goffman Presents short story] Hugo Sanz, a long-time elevator operator, now a sentient hologram, faces more than difficult passengers in “The Elevator Operator.” As technology threatens his existence, dark secrets from his past resurface, leading to an eerie showdown. “The Tour Guide’s Tale,” by Anna Tambour [short story] A quirky tour guide shares a bizarre and darkly humorous tale of a colleague’s strange encounter with eccentric travelers. The story spirals into unexpected absurdity, blending wit, mystery, and a little menace. “Little Jimmy,” by Lester Del Rey [short story] A man returns to his childhood home, where he encounters something far more unsettling than nostalgia—an inexplicable presence tied to his past. Little Jimmy, a mysterious figure, challenges everything he thought he understood about life, death, and ghosts. “Mr. Biggs Goes to Town,” by Nelson S. Bond [short story, Lancelot Biggs series] A space freighter crew faces unexpected challenges when they are reassigned to a critical mission involving pirates on the planetoid Iris. With Lancelot Biggs’ quirky genius leading the way, they must uncover a new resource to save the mission—and thwart the criminals.

This issue, we have a pair of original mysteries (by Ron Miller and Shannon Taft, the latter two thanks to our Acquiring Editor Barb Goffman), and our mystery novel is a Victorian-era sensation novel by Florence Warden. Of course, there’s a solve-it-yourself puzzler from Hal Charles, too. Our fantasy and science fiction section is heavier than usual on fantasy, with an Australian tale by Ernest Favenc, a dark fantasy by British master John Glasby, and a supernatural novel by E.F. Benson. Science fiction fans will enjoy classic pulp adventures by Edmond Hamilton and Arthur Leo Zagat. Fun stuff! Here’s the complete lineup— Mysteries / Suspense / Adventure: “Under Cover,” by Wil A. Emerson [Michael Bracken Presents short story] “Take the Money and Run,” by Hal Charles [Solve-It-Yourself Mystery] “The Penny Drops,” by Shannon Taft [Barb Goffman Presents short story] “Velda’s First Case,” by Ron Miller [short story, Velda series] The Mystery of the Inn by the Shore, by Florence Warden [novel] Science Fiction & Fantasy: “Not Without Sorcery,” by John Glasby [short story] “Fey,” by Ernest Favenc [short story] “The Comet-drivers,” by Edmond Hamilton [short story] “No Escape from Destiny” by Arthur Leo Zagat [short novel] Across the Stream, by E.F. Benson [novel]

Welcome to Black Cat Weekly. On the mystery side of things, we have original tales by Veronica Leigh (one that looks to be the start of a new series) and Richard A. McMahon (courtesy of Acquiring Editor Michael Bracken). Acquiring Editor Barb Goffman has selected a great tale by Anna Scotti, and our novel is The Talleyrand Maxim, by Golden Age author J.S. Fletcher. Plus, of course, a solve-it-yourself puzzler from Hal Charles. On the science fiction and fantasy side, our lead item is a new feature—a portfolio by artist Ron Miller. Ron has joined our staff as art director and will be providing covers from his vast body of work. But I wanted our readers to know how great an artist he is, so here is a collection of some of his best covers. As for the fiction, we have a monster-in-the-mist story by British master John Glasby, plus an all-star lineup of classic authors: Frank Belknap Long, Donald A. Wollheim, Henry Slesar, and Philip Jose Farmer. Great stuff. Here’s the complete lineup— Cover Art: Ron Miller Mysteries / Suspense / Adventure: “Mr. George,” by Richard A. McMahan [Michael Bracken Presents short story] “An Open and Shut Case,” by Hal Charles [Solve-It-Yourself Mystery] “That Which We Call Patience,” by Anna Scotti [Barb Goffman Presents short story] “The Lighthouse Keeper’s Daughters,” by Veronica Leigh [short story] The Talleyrand Maxim, by J.S. Flextcher [novel] Special Feature: “Cover Portfolio,” by Ron Miller Science Fiction & Fantasy: “The Thing in the Mist,” by John Glasby [short story] “Mr. Caxton Draws a Martian Bird,” by Frank Belknap Long [short story] “Saknarth,” by Donald A. Wollheim [short story] “Mr. Loneliness,” by Henry Slesar [short story] “The Celestial Blueprint,” by Philip José Farmer [short story]

For decades, James Bawden and Ron Miller have established themselves as maestros of provocative interviews, giving fans unmatched insights into the lives of Hollywood A-listers. In their fourth collection, the authors pay tribute to film pioneers who lit up Tinseltown from the 1930s through the 1960s. They Made the Movies features conversations with legendary directors who created many of film''s all-time classics, including Frank Capra (It''s A Wonderful Life, 1946), Richard Fleischer (20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, 1954), Alfred Hitchcock (Psycho, 1960), Ralph Nelson (Lilies of the Field, 1963), Robert Wise (The Sound of Music, 1965), and Chuck Jones (How the Grinch Stole Christmas! 1966). Tantalizing firsthand details about many acclaimed films are revealed, such as the revelation of Mervyn LeRoy''s first-choice of lead actress for The Wizard of Oz ("Shirley Temple... but Shirley couldn''t sing like Judy [Garland]"), Billy Wilder''s insights on directing ("You have to be a sycophant, a sadist, a nurse, a philosopher"), and how megaproducer Hal B. Wallis purchased an unproduced play titled Everybody Comes to Rick''s and transformed it into Casablanca ("The part [of Sam] almost went to Lena Horne, but I thought she was too beautiful"). The authors also celebrate the contributions of marginalized filmmakers such as Ida Lupino, James Wong Howe, Oscar Micheaux, and Luis Valdez, who prevailed in Hollywood despite the discrimination they faced throughout their careers. They Made the Movies appeals to film and television enthusiasts of all ages.

During television''s first fifty years—long before cable networks, Hulu, Netflix, and the like—families would gather around their television sets nightly to watch entertaining shows such as I Love Lucy, Gunsmoke, M*A*S*H, The Beverly Hillbillies, Fantasy Island, and The Rockford Files. Many of the stars of these beloved shows have passed away, but their presence remains intact—not only through their television show performances, which are still viewed and appreciated today, but also through stories they told in interviews over the years. Seasoned journalists and authors James Bawden and Ron Miller have captured provocative and entertaining interviews with important figures from TV''s first fifty years. These thirty-nine interviews, selected from conversations conducted from 1971–1998, present a fascinating glimpse of some of television''s most influential performers. Featured are exclusive interviews with major stars (including Donna Reed, James Garner, and Ricardo Montalban), icons of comedy (including Lucille Ball, George Burns, and Milton Berle), TV hosts (including Dick Clark and Ed Sullivan), and notable musical entertainers (such as Glen Campbell, Mary Martin, and Lawrence Welk). Each chapter of this volume explores the subject''s television work—with detailed behind-the-scenes disclosures—and includes additional information about the subject''s performances in film and on stage.

A rich visual history of real and fictional space stations, illustrating pop culture''s influence on the development of actual space stations and vice versa Space stations represent both the summit of space technology and, possibly, the future of humanity beyond Earth. Space Stations: The Art, Science, and Reality of Working in Space takes the reader deep into the heart of past, present, and future space stations, both real ones and those dreamed up in popular culture. This lavishly illustrated book explains the development of space stations from the earliest fictional visions through historical and current programs--including Skylab, Mir, and the International Space Station--and on to the dawning possibilities of large-scale space colonization. Engrossing narrative and striking images explore not only the spacecraft themselves but also how humans experience life aboard them, addressing everything from the development of efficient meal preparation methods to experiments in space-based botany. The book examines cutting-edge developments in government and commercial space stations, including NASA''s Deep Space Habitats, the Russian Orbital Technologies Commercial Space Station, and China''s Tiangong program. Throughout, Space Stations also charts the fascinating depiction of space stations in popular culture, whether in the form of children''s toys, comic-book spacecraft, settings in science-fiction novels, or the backdrop to TV series and Hollywood movies. Space Stations is a beautiful and captivating history of the idea and the reality of the space station from the nineteenth century to the present day.

Journalists James Bawden and Ron Miller spent their careers interviewing the greatest stars of Hollywood''s golden age. They visited Lee Marvin at home and politely admired his fishing trophies, chatted with Janet Leigh while a young Jamie Lee Curtis played, and even made Elizabeth Taylor laugh out loud. In You Ain''t Heard Nothin'' Yet, Bawden and Miller return with a new collection of rare interviews with iconic film stars including Henry Fonda, Esther Williams, Buster Keaton, Maureen O''Sullivan, Walter Pidgeon, and many more. The book is filled with humorous anecdotes and incredible behind-the-scenes stories. For instance, Bette Davis reflects that she and Katharine Hepburn were both considered for the role of Scarlett O''Hara but neither was "gorgeous enough" for the part; Janet Leigh analyzes the famous shower scene in Psycho (1960), which was shot in seven days and gave the actress nightmares for years; and Jimmy Stewart describes Alfred Hitchcock as a "strange, roly-poly man, interested only in blondes and murder." Popular horror film stars from Lon Chaney Jr. to Boris Karloff and Vincent Price are also featured in a special "movie monsters" section. With first-person accounts of Hollywood life from some of the most distinguished luminaries in the history of American cinema, this entertaining book will delight classic movie fans.

Watching the screen version of a classic mystery novel can be disappointing. By necessity or artistic license (or possibly just ego) changes are often made by the filmmakers--many of them ineffective or even detrimental. This book focuses on the screen adaptations of 65 famous mysteries and examines how the filmmakers either succeeded or failed in the telling of the story. Interviews with several famous mystery writers are included, with their comments on how filmmakers treated their work.

Bawden and Miller present an astonishing collection of rare interviews with the greatest celebrities of Hollywood''s golden age. Conducted over the course of more than fifty years, they recount intimate conversations with some of the most famous leading men and women of the era. Each interview takes readers behind the scenes with some of cinema''s most iconic stars, as the actors convey unforgettable stories.

"An illustrated guide to real and imagined spaceships, and how popular culture influenced the development of each"--Provided by publisher.

Its Velda vs the Red Menace when our plucky 1950''s sleuth uncovers a sinister Commie plot to take over America! Also in this issue: Velda takes on a double role to outwit kidnappers when she becomes "The Prisoner of Zendaville," and tracks a murderous art thief who can''t resist "The Naked Milkmaid." An adventure of Neolithica: Girl of the Pleistocene and Hawkshaw Hawk: Bird Detective round out the issue.

Private detective Velda''s back on the stage shedding feathers as she finds herself up to her ears in counterfeiters when "Her Chips Come In"! Also in this issue, Velda learns what a didgeridoo does and in "Velda vs the DA" she gets a kick out of meeting her archenemy face to face! And as a special bonus, Velda¡¯s Special Paper Doll kit is included that feature various clothing designs worn by Velda. An adventure of Neolithica: Girl of the Pleistocene and Hawkshaw Hawk: Bird Detective round out the issue.

A treasure hunt leads Velda into a dangerous maze of deceit, murder and misapplied baseball bats! Also in this issue, a vacation to the beach turns into a deadly adventure in "Velda Takes a Trip," and our sultry 1950''s sleuth has to escape the terrible "Curse of Mwabwebe-Tutu"! An additional adventure of Neolithica: Girl of the Pleistocene and Hawkshaw Hawk: Bird Detective round out the issue.

Special oversized double issue! Leading off is the infamous "suppressed" 1950''s Velda comic issue as the ''original'' publisher folded under the weight of Dr. Frederic Werthham¡¯s expose of the comic industry in "Seduction of the Innocent". With the public outcry against this Velda storyline, the story has never seen print until now. As a bonus, this issue features a scrapbook of Velda as she shows us how she went from being a stripper to a private investigator and some of the interesting people she has crossed paths with.

A collection of short stories running the gamut from fantasy and horror to mystery and science fiction. An esteemed sportsman likes to collect the heads of were-animals, an astonishing discovery is made on Mars, a secret cult builds their own god, a nice little old lady likes cats too much, a scientist discovers his best friend is a moon and a future society invents a novel way of executing criminals among other surprises, all to say nothing of the terrible secrets of Frankenstein, Jack the Ripper and the end of the world. At the publisher''s request, this title is sold without DRM (Digital Rights Management).

It''s the eighth century Europe of Charlemagne...and of myths, monsters and magic. The Iron Tempest is the story of one of Charlemagne''s most formidable paladins, a fabulous woman knight who must face almost insurmountable odds in her quest for a love forbidden by her emperor, her family and her god. Odds that include such impediments as sorcerers and sorceresses, giants and hippogryphs, treachery and madness---all to say nothing of entire armies that have the misfortune of standing between Lady Bradamant and her heart''s desire...even if she is not entirely sure what that desire really is. At the publisher''s request, this title is sold without DRM (Digital Rights Management).

The brave and beautiful Princess Bronwyn is forced to watch helplessly from behind bars as she becomes an outcast in her own kingdom. But iron bars are no match for her iron will, and with her companions---the dashing Baron, the changeling Gyven and the faithful Kobold giant, Thud---Bronwyn engineers an escape...only to begin a trek through the fairy-haunted Dark Forest. She must confront unknown races and unfathomable dangers---to say nothing of the bounty hunters and spies of the evil Lord Payne and the uncanny General Praxx. At the publisher''s request, this title is sold without DRM (Digital Rights Management).