Books matching: sword and sorcery
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- #1
Save:'The Oathbound' by Mercedes Lackey is the opening book in the duology of books dealing with Kethry and Tarma, a mage and a sword-sworn fighter bound by oath to one another and to the Goddess. The story follows their adventures as they travel together as mercenaries, defending women in need of deliverance despite the personal peril they face. The book is structured more like a collection of short stories, each chapter presenting a different adventure, rather than a continuous building story. The characters of Tarma and Kethry are engaging, and the plot, while somewhat episodic, is strong and enjoyable, especially when accompanied by the sequel 'Oathbreakers'.
The book delves into the journey of Tarma and Kethry, two oathbound sisters with contrasting roles - a Sworn Sword and a mage, united by their oath to protect women in distress. The plot unfolds through a series of episodic adventures that highlight the bond between the two women and their dedication to their cause. Despite being written over 30 years ago, the book is praised for being ahead of its time in focusing on two strong female protagonists and tackling themes of femininity and female empowerment within a fantasy setting.
The sky was overcast, a solid gray sheet that seemed to hang just barely above the treetops, with no sign of a break in the clouds anywhere. The sun was no more than a dimly glowing spot near the west... - #2
Save:'Jirel of Joiry' by C.L. Moore is a collection of stories featuring a strong female protagonist named Jirel, set in fantastical realms where she faces various challenges and adversaries. The writing style is described as lush and evocative, with vivid descriptions of the places Jirel travels and the creatures she encounters. The book is noted for its historical significance in the sword and sorcery genre, showcasing Jirel as a formidable warrior who leads her warriors in battle and is portrayed as a unique character for her time.
They brought in Joiry’s tall commander, struggling between two men-at-arms who tightly gripped the ropes which bound their captive’s mailed arms. They picked their way between mounds of dead as they c... - #3
Save:'Elric of Melnibone' by Michael Moorcock is the first in the Elric Saga series, featuring Elric, the albino emperor of the Dragon Isle. Elric rules the island empire of Melnibone from the Ruby Throne in dreaming Imrryr, a civilization in decline. The story follows Elric's struggles against external threats, power plays within his family, and his own illnesses. He makes a deal with Chaos that comes at a great cost, leading to a dark and anti-heroic narrative. The writing style is described as dark, melancholic, and lyrical, with a focus on Elric's quest for survival and mastery of his evil blade, Stormbringer.
IT IS THE colour of a bleached skull, his flesh; and the long hair which flows below his shoulders is milk-white. From the tapering, beautiful head stare two slanting eyes, crimson and moody, and from... - #4
Save:In 'Hawkmoon: The Jewel in the Skull' by Michael Moorcock, readers are taken on a fantastical journey following the adventures of Dorian Hawkmoon, an enchanted slave on a mission to save his home from destruction. Armed with mystical accoutrements and accompanied by an odd assortment of companions, including the loyal friend Huilliam D'Averc, Hawkmoon faces off against the ruthless Dark Empire of Granbretan. The story is filled with elements of sword and sorcery, post-apocalyptic settings, and a blend of science and sorcery, creating a unique fantasy world where the fate of the characters is intertwined with the Runestaff and the eternal battle between good and evil.
The narrative unfolds with a mix of action-packed scenes, mysterious encounters, and epic battles, all set against the backdrop of a future Europe post-apocalypse. Readers are introduced to a diverse cast of characters, from the simple yet determined Hawkmoon to the enigmatic Count Brass, each playing a crucial role in the quest to thwart the Dark Empire's plans for world domination. With themes of sacrifice, love, loyalty, and the eternal struggle between light and darkness, 'Hawkmoon: The Jewel in the Skull' weaves a tale of heroism, adventure, and the power of destiny in a world where nothing is as it seems.
COUNT BRASS, Lord Guardian of the Kamarg, rode out on a horned horse one morning to inspect his territories. He rode until he came to a little hill, on the top of which stood a ruin of immense age. It... - #5
Save:Swords and Deviltry is the first book in the Fafhrd and the Gray Mouser series by Fritz Leiber. It consists of short stories that introduce the iconic characters, Fafhrd, a barbarian from the cold north, and the Gray Mouser, a former wizard apprentice turned thief. The stories delve into the origins of the two protagonists, their individual backstories, and the eventual meeting that leads to their partnership in the city of Lankhmar. The book is described as classic sword and sorcery fantasy, filled with adventure, humor, and elements of dark fantasy, all set in the vividly created world of Nehwon.
The writing style of Swords and Deviltry is characterized as entertaining, fast-paced, and not taking itself too seriously. The stories are a mix of short, brutal, and somewhat disjointed narratives that follow the misadventures of the two rogues, Fafhrd and the Gray Mouser. The book is praised for its world-building, grey morality, and the portrayal of flawed yet likable characters, providing a refreshing take on the traditional heroic fantasy genre.
Sundered from us by gulfs of time and stranger dimensions dreams the ancient world of Nehwon with its towers and skulls and jewels, its swords and sorceries. Nehwon’s known realms crowd about the Inne... - #6
Save:C.L. Moore's 'Black God's Kiss' is a collection of stories featuring Jirel of Joiry, the first female fantasy heroine known for her vengeful and harsh nature. The tales follow Jirel on her quests to vanquish foes and evil-doers, often leading her to other dimensions where she faces disturbing creatures and challenges. The writing style is described as lushly descriptive, focusing on the atmospheric effects of the surroundings, eerie creatures, and the torments and fears experienced by the main character. While the plots may seem repetitive, with Jirel typically overcoming adversaries in fantastical realms, the stories are compelling and offer a unique perspective on sword and sorcery fiction.
They brought in Joiry’s tall commander, struggling between two men-at-arms who tightly gripped the ropes which bound their captive’s mailed arms. They picked their way between mounds of dead as they c... - #7
Save:'Kull: Exile of Atlantis' by Robert E. Howard is a collection of Kull stories, showcasing the pure writing of Howard without contributions from other authors. The stories follow Kull, an ancestor of Conan, as he navigates through thrilling adventures, encounters eerie situations, and faces off against assassins and evil forces. not only delves into Kull's character but also provides insights into the world of sword and sorcery, establishing Kull as a significant figure in the genre. The writing style is described as forcible, engaging, and reminiscent of Howard's raw and unadulterated storytelling.
Kull of high Atlantis. Kull, who will never be “of” Valusia no matter how long he rules the Land of Enchantment. Kull, cold-eyed but hot-headed, a bull in an unimaginably ancient china shop. Kull, the... - #8
Save:Throne of the Crescent Moon by Saladin Ahmed is a fantasy novel set in an Arabian Nights-style environment, featuring a group of characters including an aging monster hunter, his apprentice, an orphaned Bedouin, and older comrades who embark on a desert fantasy adventure to solve a mystery and save their city. The plot involves a mix of religion, magic, and politics with an Islamic background and customs, providing a quick-paced adventure filled with interesting characters and settings. The writing style is noted for its unique Middle Eastern-inspired setting, engaging narrative, and well-written heroes who, despite seeming somewhat one-dimensional, propel the story forward with confrontations leading up to a climactic battle with an evil villain.
He held them close as a handful of dinars. Counted them over and over. Nine days. Nine days. Nine days. If he could remember this until he died he could keep his soul whole for God’s sheltering embrac... - #9
Save:A Song for Arbonne by Guy Gavriel Kay is a tale set in a parallel world reminiscent of medieval Europe, focusing on the conflict between the free-loving people of Arbonne and the bigoted neighbors of Gorhaut. The story delves into themes of courtly love, political machinations, and personal choices that shape the destiny of the characters involved. The narrative weaves together elements of romance, intrigue, action, and complex relationships against the backdrop of a richly described world.
There was very little wind, which was a blessing. Pale moonlight fell upon the gently swelling sea around the skiff. They had chosen a moonlit night. Despite the risks, they would need to see where th... - #10
Save:Swords Against Death is the second volume in the Fafhrd and the Gray Mouser series by Fritz Leiber. The book consists of a collection of short stories following the adventures of the two protagonists as they navigate through a world filled with sorcery, thieves, and dangerous adversaries. The stories are known for their blend of action, humor, and sword and sorcery elements, with the duo facing challenges ranging from battling formidable enemies to pulling off outrageous heists. Leiber's writing style is praised for its rich prose, alliteration, and irony, making the tales both entertaining and engaging for readers.
A tall swordsman and a small one strode out the Marsh Gate of Lankhmar and east along Causey Road. They were youths by their skin and suppleness, men by their expressions of deep-bitten grief and ston...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Fafhrd and the Gray Mouser )
