The Return of Tharn is a science fiction short story written by Howard Browne, and first published in 1948. The story takes place in a future world where humanity has spread throughout the galaxy, colonizing distant planets and developing advanced technologies. The main character, space adventurer Kirby Storm, is hired by a wealthy businessman named John Tharn to retrieve a valuable artifact from a distant planet. Tharn is known for his ruthless business practices and is rumored to have acquired immense wealth through questionable means. Storm is initially hesitant to work for Tharn, but the promise of a large sum of money convinces him to take the job. As Storm and his crew travel to the planet, they encounter several challenges, including hostile alien lifeforms and treacherous terrain. When they finally reach their destination, they discover that the artifact they were sent to retrieve is actually a powerful weapon capable of destroying entire planets. Storm realizes that Tharn intends to use the weapon to assert his dominance over the galaxy, and decides to take a stand against him. In a thrilling conclusion, Storm and his crew engage Tharn and his army in a battle for control of the weapon. In the end, Storm emerges victorious, but not without suffering significant losses. "The Return of Tharn" explores themes of greed, power, and morality in a science fiction setting. Browne's vivid descriptions and fast-paced action make for an exciting and engaging read.
Howard Browne (1908-1999) was an American author, screenwriter, and editor. He was born in Omaha, Nebraska, and grew up in California. Browne began his career as a pulp fiction writer, working for magazines such as Black Mask and Amazing Stories. Browne wrote in a variety of genres, including science fiction, crime fiction, and westerns. He is perhaps best known for his science fiction novels, such as "The Return of Tharn," and his crime novels, including "Halo for Satan" and "The Taste of Ashes." Browne was also a screenwriter, writing for television shows such as Maverick and The Virginian. In addition to his writing, Browne was an influential editor in the science fiction community. He worked as the editor of Amazing Stories and Fantastic Adventures in the 1940s and 1950s, and later served as the editor of Ellery Queen's Mystery Magazine in the 1960s and 1970s. Browne was also involved in the film industry, working as a screenwriter and story editor for Warner Bros. in the 1950s. He was credited with writing the screenplay for the 1955 film "Chicago Syndicate." Browne received several awards for his work, including the Edgar Allan Poe Award for Best Short Story in 1954. He passed away in 1999 at the age of 91.