The cover of the pulp magazine Avon Fantasy Reader, dated May 15, 1949, No. 10, features an evocative and dramatic illustration for the story “A Witch Shall be Born” by Robert E. Howard. Central to the cover is a powerful and striking image of a witch, radiating both beauty and menace. She has flowing dark hair and piercing eyes that seem to hold ancient secrets. Clad in a dark, flowing gown that billows around her, she stands amidst a backdrop of a desolate, moonlit landscape with twisted, gnarled trees and ominous shadows.

The witch holds a glowing orb in one hand, casting an eerie light that illuminates her face and adds to the supernatural atmosphere. In the background, a distant castle looms under a stormy sky, with flashes of lightning hinting at the dark forces at play. The scene is filled with tension and foreboding, capturing the essence of Howard’s tale.

The magazine’s title, “Avon Fantasy Reader,” is boldly displayed at the top in a stylized font that complements the fantastical theme. Below, in a smaller but equally striking font, is the title of the featured story, “A Witch Shall be Born,” along with the author’s name, Robert E. Howard, inviting readers to explore the dark and captivating world within the pages.