Toni St. John is a nosy reporter chasing the story of her life, a story that will hopefully win her the Pulitzer Prize and national acclaim. When a tip about four mysterious suicides that happen in an upscale hotel in New Orleans, LA lands on her desk, she packs a bag and heads to the Big Easy to investigate.What Toni doesn’t know is that the mysterious deaths are closely connected to her own sordid past, and the sexy alpha manager of the hotel, Jericho Laveau, is indelibly linked ...

Nelson Slade Bond (1908-2006) had a remarkable career as a science fiction writer. He wrote extensively for books, radio, television and the stage, and especially the pulp magazines. Like Ray Bradbury, he did his journeyman work in the science fiction pulps before graduating to the higher-paying “slick” magazines like Bluebook. The quality of his work was such that Arkham House, Gnome Press, Prime Press, and Doubleday issued collections of his early short stories. At Wildside Press, we wer...

Rex Dale, during his travels, learns about a mysterious and deadly phenomenon known as the "Lorelei Death." This deadly occurrence is named after the mythological sirens, the Lorelei, who lured sailors to their doom with their enchanting songs. In the story, the "Lorelei Death" refers to a beautiful and otherworldly song that lures space travelers to their deaths.Dale becomes determined to uncover the truth behind this phenomenon. His investigation leads him to a distant and little-known p...

The story is set in a future where space travel is common, and it follows the adventures of a group of characters who find themselves stranded on Eros, one of the asteroids in our solar system. The title "Castaways of Eros" suggests themes of survival, exploration, and ingenuity as the characters work to overcome the challenges of their situation.As the plot unfolds, the castaways must navigate the harsh environment of Eros, deal with limited resources, and possibly face threats from both ...

The title "Wanderers of the Wolf-Moon" suggests a story set in space or on a distant planet, perhaps involving explorers or adventurers navigating the challenges of an alien environment. The inclusion of "Wolf-Moon" hints at celestial or lunar themes, implying that the story may take place under the light of a moon associated with wolves, which could evoke a sense of mystery, danger, or primal instincts.Given the era in which it was written, "Wanderers of the Wolf-Moon" likely reflects the...

In "Colossus of Chaos," Bond likely explores themes of technology, societal upheaval, and the consequences of scientific advancement. The title suggests a story involving a monumental or disruptive force, possibly a technological or natural phenomenon that threatens to disrupt the established order.Bond's writing style is characterized by its imaginative concepts, thought-provoking themes, and skillful characterization. His stories often blend speculative elements with social commentary, o...

The story is a science fiction tale featuring Shadrach, a robot with remarkable resilience and abilities. In a world where robots are commonly used, Shadrach stands out due to his unique characteristics and the loyalty he shows toward his human creators. The plot revolves around Shadrach's adventures and the moral and ethical dilemmas that arise as he interacts with humans and the environment around him.Bond's story explores themes such as the nature of consciousness, the relationship betw...

The story follows the protagonist, a time traveler who discovers a dystopian future where a powerful dictator controls time itself. This tyrant has the ability to manipulate events and lives across different eras, imposing his will on the fabric of time.As the protagonist grapples with the implications of such power, he embarks on a mission to thwart the dictator's plans. This journey takes him through various historical periods and alternate realities, where he encounters intriguing chara...

The story revolves around an alien race that has developed a device capable of manipulating time and space. This device is central to the plot as it comes into contact with humanity, leading to a series of transformative and often perilous events. As the story unfolds, the protagonist grapples with the ethical and existential implications of such a powerful technology, challenging his own understanding of reality and human potential.The novel is known for its thought-provoking exploration ...

"The Castaway" is a short story that centers on themes of isolation, survival, and human ingenuity. The protagonist finds themselves stranded in an unfamiliar environment—possibly on an alien planet or a remote location—where they must use their resourcefulness and determination to survive. The narrative explores the psychological and physical challenges of being a castaway, highlighting the protagonist's struggle against the elements and their own inner turmoil.Bond's storytelling often i...

This science fiction novel explores themes of space exploration, human ambition, and the search for knowledge beyond the known universe. The story follows a group of astronauts or scientists who venture into the depths of space, driven by a quest for understanding and discovery.As they journey beyond the reach of light, they encounter various challenges and phenomena that test their resolve and challenge their perceptions of reality. The narrative delves into the philosophical implications...

This issue, in addition to great tales from Acquiring Editors Michael Bracken and Barb Goffman, we also have an original mystery from Kathleen Marple Kalb, a modern dark fantasy from John S. Glasby, and much, much more.Here’s the complete lineup—Mysteries / Suspense / Adventure:“Mother’s Day Tea,” by Ashley-Ruth M. Bernier [Michael Bracken Presents short story]At a seemingly innocent kindergarten Mother’s...