Originally Published In Issue 46
Reprinted In Issue 105
First published back in October of 1974, Issue 46 of the ‘Pocket Chiller Library’ comic series was titled ‘The Mummies’. The comic was later reprinted under the alternative title ‘Beyond Death’ within Issue 105.
During the 1970s the ‘Pocket Chiller Library’ was a pocket-sized mainstream horror comic which ran for 137 issues between 1971 and 1977. From issue 86 onwards the publishers simply started reprinting the earlier stories, the first 28 of these reprints retitling the story. As such, there were only a total of 86 different stories within the series.
Unfortunately, each issue was undated, making it difficult to be sure of the date for first publication of each issue. However, it is widely understood the comics were monthly publications, with the original stories running between 1971 and 1977, therefore the above date of publication is a reasonable assumption. Additionally, each issue was uncredited to either the writer or the comic artist(s).
When his wealthy Uncle Gibbs passed away, Logan, was invited to move into the grandiose Hathor House by his Aunt Harriet Gibbs. Despite Logan’s dislike for his autocratic Aunt, the prospect of inheriting their wealth was just too appealing for him not pursue.
Logan’s late uncle had been a well-known Egyptologist. In fact, he and his wife had spent most of their lives in Egypt, studying the tombs and accumulating priceless treasures. Now those treasures were collected together within the vast attics of the gloomy house. A veritable museum to Ancient Egypt. A place of priceless relics retaining the very essence of the dead kings they commemorate.
However, within the many treasures and ancient relics, a great sarcophagus held the mummified remains of Logan’s late Uncle. The man’s final wishes had been to remain in the house, mummified and placed in the museum alongside the treasures they’d spent their lives collecting.
Despite the rotting old cadaver within the attic, the prospect of inheriting everything else was too much for Logan. He wanted it all, and he wanted it now. And so, when a thick mist covered the isolated grounds surrounding Hathor House, Logan devised a devious plan.
A walk along the cliff edge with his aging old Aunt would do the trick. A casual stroll that would inevitably lead to tragedy. After which, Logan as the sole heir to the Gibbs’ riches, would have it all.
Although what Logan would soon learn, was that death is but life in another form, and that Lucas and his wife were beloved by the gods. Ancient gods who must be appeased…
Who doesn’t love a good mummy story huh?! Here we have just that. A classic plot about a greedy young nephew who plots to murder his recently widowed aunt so he can inherit the family riches. Of course, his aunt and uncle dedicated their lives to Egyptology, and so, in death they’re both mummified. Then when Harriet is murdered, the ancient gods enact a terrible revenge on the one who sought the demise of their beloved Harriet Gibbs.
That’s the plot in a nutshell. But what follows is a gloriously devised storyline, with the Gibbs’ close friend – the Egyptian Doctor Abu – making sure the deceased’s wishes are enacted, whilst simultaneously making a series of astute insinuations about Logan’s involvement in Harriet Gibbs’ death.
In classic PCL style, we have Logan then being tormented by ghastly visitations from disembodied mummified hands, and then full-blown undead walking mummies. It’s enough to send the lad to the funny farm – which is precisely what happens. Although, of course, the story doesn’t end there. Oh, no, it’s just getting going!
Expect another wonderfully dark finale of horrific comeuppance topping off this wild ride of supernatural torment. All through the comic in its journey to this grisly ending, we have a purposeful drive towards Logan getting what he deserves. This is largely through the suggestive mutterings and finger-pointing of the shrewd Doctor Abu, who makes for a truly foreboding figure throughout.
The comic’s another fast-paced and highly entertaining horror read, with some excellent illustrative artwork accompanying the tale. In particular, all of the characters’ constantly distraught facial features perfectly emphasise the anguish of the characters throughout. Only Doctor Abu, with his thin eyes and taut face, remains untroubled – as if he’s constantly aware of everything! Brilliant stuff.
The comic book runs for a total of 64 pages.
© DLS Reviews
