When H.P. Lovecraft first introduced his macabre universe in the pages ofWeird Talesmagazine, the response was electrifying. Gifted writersamong them his closest peersadded sinister new elements to the fear-drenched landscape. Here are some of the most famous original stories from the pulp era that played a pivotal role in reflecting the master's dark vision. FANE OF THE BLACK PHARAOHby Robert Bloch: A man obsessed with unearthing dark secrets succumbs to the lure of the forbidden. BELLS OF HORRORby Henry Kuttner: Infernal chimes ring the promise of dementia and mutilation. THE FIRE OF ASSURBANIPALby Robert E. Howard: In the burning Afghan desert, a young American unleashes an ancient curse. THE ABYSSby Robert A. W. Lowndes: A hypnotized man finds himself in an alternate universe, trapped on a high wire between life and death. AND SIXTEEN MORE TALES OF ICY TERROR From the Trade Paperback edition.