Campy pulp science fiction “UFO 517” 1965 Bron Fane Badger Books

🛸 **Bron Fane’s “U.F.O. 517” — Badger Books (1965)**

A vintage British pulp science fiction novel from the legendary Badger Books imprint, written by R. Lionel Fanthorpe under his Bron Fane pseudonym. Fanthorpe (1935–2021) was one of the most prolific authors in British pulp history, often dictating entire novels onto reel-to-reel tape over a single weekend to meet Badger’s relentless publishing schedule. Many of these works were co-written with his wife Patricia.

**The Story:** The cover poses the question: *”If they were not extra-terrestrial, whence did they come?”* Rather than a straightforward alien invasion tale, Fanthorpe explores Fortean phenomena — drawing on real-world mysteries such as the Chase Vault’s moving coffin, the Devil’s Footprints of Devon, and other unexplained occurrences. The novel blends pulp adventure with the author’s well-documented interest in paranormal and Fortean subjects.

**The Cover Art:** Classic 1960s British pulp — a vivid sky-blue background with a panicked woman in a sleeveless dark dress recoiling as multiple flying saucers descend through swirling clouds. The largest UFO glows in bright yellow and green with orange accents. Bold purple title lettering, the iconic Badger Books logo, and a 2/6 price mark complete the period presentation. An excellent example of the newsstand science fiction that defined British pop culture.

**Why It Matters:** Badger Books (John Spencer & Co.) occupied a unique place in British publishing history. Their budget-friendly paperbacks brought science fiction to newsstands across the UK in the 1950s and 60s, with cover art that has since become highly collectible. Fanthorpe’s pseudonymous output — he used dozens of pen names including Bron Fane, Pel Torro, and others — has gained a cult following among pulp collectors.

**For Collectors:** Scarce first printing in outstanding condition. Fanthorpe’s work has been the subject of increasing academic and collector interest, with several of his titles now commanding premium prices. This copy is among the finest examples of a typically hard-to-find Badger title.

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**Condition:** This is a near fine or fine, seemingly unread copy, no flaws to speak of.

See accompanying images and video for full condition details.

Will ship promptly, carefully packaged.

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