The Gods of Mars

The one on whom all responsibility rests is apt to endure the most
Book #13 of 20 in the SDE Classics Science Fiction Collection
After a ten year hiatus, John Carter arrives back on Barsoom only to realize he has entered the Valley of Dor - the Barsoomian afterlife. With his companion Tars Tarkas at his side, John Carter soon discovers a race of white-skinned Martians called Therns, who claim to be the Gods of Mars and the wardens of the Valley of Dor. The veil lifts, and John Carter uncovers the Therns' deception and the real reason why they have attracted Barsoomians to the Valley for ages.