Tag: Michael Moorcock

The Five Greatest Heists in Fantasy Literature: A Closer Look

Dive into the thrilling world of fantasy heists! Explore seven iconic literary thefts that blend risk, cunning, and magical audacity.

Ah, there’s nothing quite like a good old-fashioned heist.

The thrill of the chase, the danger of detection, the subtle art of misdirection—it’s all the fun of the fair but with a higher risk of decapitation.

So, let’s tighten our cloaks, check our hidden pockets, and stroll down the shadowy alleyways of fantasy literature’s greatest heists.

Remember, it’s not stealing if it’s for a good cause. Right?

The Salvaran Job (The Lies of Locke Lamora, Scott Lynch)

 Locke and his Gentlemen Bastards don’t just steal; they elevate theft into a sophisticated art form. The Salvaran heist was less a crime and more a meticulously choreographed dance of lies, deception, and false-bottomed wine barrels. It makes the Italian Job look like nicking penny sweets from a corner shop.

The Theft of the Orb (The Belgariad, David Eddings)

Garion and his band’s quest to steal back the Orb of Aldur was a romp across kingdoms, through sorcerous battles and into the heart of a hostile empire. It’s a lesson in why you should always keep your magical artifacts under lock and key, or at the very least, not in a place marked ‘swipe me.’

The Theft of Stormbringer (Elric of Melniboné, Michael Moorcock)

 Stealing a sentient, soul-drinking sword from a melancholic, semi-deranged prince? Just another day at the office for Elric’s treacherous cousin Yyrkoon. Makes your office politics seem rather tame, doesn’t it?

Pilfering the Precious (The Hobbit, J.R.R. Tolkien)

 What’s a list of heists without Bilbo Baggins and his misguided quest to pickpocket a treasure-obsessed dragon? Not only does it set the gold standard for burglary, but it’s also a stark reminder: always check your insurance covers kleptomaniac hobbits.

Stealing the Allomantic Atium (Mistborn, Brandon Sanderson)

Vin and her crew didn’t just plan to rob the Lord Ruler of his precious atium, they aimed to topple an empire. When your bank robbery is also a political coup, you know you’re in deep. And people think organising a pub crawl is challenging.

And there we have it. Five magnificent, perilous, downright audacious heists that have kept us entertained, petrified, and seriously doubting our career choices.

Next time you’re planning a daring escapade, remember: do it with style, avoid dragons, and for goodness’ sake, never trust a cousin with a grudge.

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33 Must-Read Sword and Sorcery Books for Adventure Seekers

Discover the history of sword and sorcery fantasy from pulp origins to modern revivals. Includes an essential reading list of 33 gritty, action-packed novels.

If you’re partial to a spot of swashbuckling, a dash of dark magic, and a generous helping of gritty heroism, then you’ve probably dipped your toes into the tempestuous seas of sword and sorcery.

You might even have a favourite battered paperback, its spine creased from countless re-reads, tucked away somewhere safe.

This genre of fantasy, oft-clad in a loincloth and waving a sizeable chunk of sharpened metal, has a storied history that’s as colourful as the characters it portrays.

But before we delve into the 33 essential reads, let’s journey back to the genre’s roots, shall we?

Buckle up for a whirlwind tour of testosterone, tarnished heroes, and timeless tales.

Pulp Fiction’s Barbaric Birth

Our tale begins in the rough-and-ready world of 1930s pulp magazines, where the gritty, often morally ambiguous world of sword and sorcery was first birthed.

The term itself was coined by Fritz Leiber, in response to a challenge from Michael Moorcock, another luminary of the genre.

But let’s not get ahead of ourselves, there’s plenty of blood to spill first.

Our first stop is the Hyborian Age, the playground of Robert E. Howard’s Conan the Barbarian.

With his rippling muscles, disdain for witchcraft, and tendency to solve problems with a broadsword, Conan embodied the genre’s defining characteristics. He was no knight in shining armour, more like a brigand in a blood-stained loincloth.

And readers loved him for it.

The pulp era was a veritable breeding ground for such characters. Amidst the lurid covers of magazines like ‘Weird Tales,’ they battled monsters, rescued (and occasionally abducted) maidens, and got up to all sorts of sword-swinging, sorcery-slaying shenanigans.

From Pulp to Paperback

The pulps may have birthed the genre, but it was the paperback revolution of the 1960s and 70s that really spread the seeds of sword and sorcery across the globe.

This was the era of Michael Moorcock’s Elric of Melniboné, a somewhat anaemic-looking bloke with a cursed sword that devoured souls.

Elric was the polar opposite of Conan—frail, introspective, and reliant on sorcery (and his soul-sucking sword) to survive.

He was a new type of hero for a new age, typifying the shift towards more morally complex characters.

Then, of course, there was Fritz Leiber’s Fafhrd and the Gray Mouser series.

These two roguish heroes, one a burly barbarian and the other a nimble thief, navigated a grimy, dangerous world full of dark magic and dangerous women.

It was a world where the monsters were often human, and the heroes were just trying to make a dishonest living.

The Modern Age of Grizzled Heroes

Fast forward to the present day, and sword and sorcery is still going strong, although perhaps it’s had a few pints, put on a bit of weight, and developed a slightly cynical outlook on life.

Modern authors have taken the genre’s foundations and built upon them, creating worlds that are darker, grittier, and dripping with even more gore.

Take Joe Abercrombie’s ‘The First Law’ series, a work of grimdark fiction as cheerful as a funeral in a rainstorm.

Its characters are deeply flawed, its world is cruel, and its magic is as likely to kill you as save you.

It’s sword and sorcery that’s been dragged through a hedge backwards, and it’s bloody brilliant.

Or consider Scott Lynch’s ‘The Lies of Locke Lamora.’

It’s a tale of thieves and con artists plying their trade in a city that makes the dens of the pulps look like a holiday resort.

It’s a world where the swords are sharp, the wit is sharper, and the sorcery…well, let’s just say you wouldn’t want to be on the wrong end of it.

Looking to the Future

Sword and sorcery has come a long way since the days of pulp magazines, but its heart remains the same.

It’s a genre that relishes in the raw, the rough, and the real.

It’s about heroes who aren’t always heroic, magic that’s as dangerous as it is powerful, and worlds where life is cheap and survival is an art.

It’s a dark, dangerous dance—a bloody ballet of blades and black magic.

And we wouldn’t have it any other way.

33 Recommended Sword and Sorcery Novels

If you’re looking for fantasy tales full of daring heroes, arcane magic, and thrilling adventures, sword and sorcery stories never fail to deliver action-packed escapism.

Here are 33 page-turning sword and sorcery novels everyone new to the genre should read:

Conan the Barbarian by Robert E. Howard

The iconic series that defined sword and sorcery featuring everyone’s favorite loincloth-wearing Cimmerian warrior.

Jirel of Joiry by C. L. Moore

Groundbreaking tales of the first female sword and sorcery heroine Jirel and her battles in a demon-haunted medieval France.

Servant of the Underworld by Aliette de Bodard

Sword and sorcery inspired by Aztec mythology with an engrossing mystery.

Throne of the Crescent Moon by Saladin Ahmed

Excellent sword and sorcery in a Middle Eastern inspired setting featuring a ghul hunter protecting the people.

The Amethyst Sword by Fleur Adcock

A lyrical and imaginative tale of warriors, wizardry and Celtic mythology.

Who Fears Death by Nnedi Okorafor

An original post-apocalyptic African sword and sorcery adventure.

The Copper Promise by Jen Williams

An action-packed epic following mercenaries, dragons, and ancient powers.

The Barbed Coil by J. V. Jones

A gritty tale of battle mages and political intrigue.

The Iron Dragon’s Daughter by Michael Swanwick

A subversive, contemporary take on sword and sorcery tropes.

The Cloud Roads by Martha Wells

Soaring dragon rider adventure perfect for fantasy fans.

The Fox Woman by A. Merritt

Classic Asian folklore inspired sword and sorcery.

Sister Light, Sister Dark by Jane Yolen

Celtic-flavoured sisterly conflicts amid mythical battles.

The Sword Woman by Robert E. Howard

Historical sword and sorcery set in the Dark Ages.

The Pit Dragon Trilogy by Jane Yolen

Young adult dragon rider adventure.

Daughter of the Empire by Raymond E. Feist

Political intrigue in a fantasy Asian-inspired setting.

Mirrorscape by Mike Wilks

A funhouse mirror world of swords and sorcery.

Alif the Unseen by G. Willow Wilson

A modern cyberpunk meets Arabian Nights tale.

The God Stalker Chronicles by P.C. Hodgell

Demon hunting swordswoman in an intricate world.

Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas

Action-packed YA blending epic fantasy and sword and sorcery.

Cloudbearer’s Shadow by J. Kathleen Cheney

Asian-inspired magic and dragons.

Redemption in Indigo by Karen Lord

A witty Caribbean storytelling vibe flavors this magical quest.

The Achtung Archipelago by Nick Mamatas

Subversive WWII alternate history mixed with sword and sorcery.

Starless by Jacqueline Carey

Epic journeys and demonic villains galore.

The Dragon’s Legacy by Deborah A. Wolf

Character-driven sword and sorcery with clan intrigue.

Throne of the Five Winds by S.C. Emmett

A unique Vietnamese fantasy world.

The Stone Knife by Anna Stephens

Grimdark sword and sorcery with imaginative worldbuilding.

The Mask of Mirrors by M.A. Carrick

Political intrigue mixed with gritty action.

Master of Poisons by Andrea Hairston

Majestic afrofuturist fantasy.

Empire of Sand by Tasha Suri

Indian-inspired tale of magics, dance, and destiny.

Black Leviathan by Bernd Perplies

Swashbuckling fantasy on the high seas.

Sorcerer to the Crown by Zen Cho

Magic and manners in Regency England with a dash of sword and sorcery.

The Tiger’s Daughter by K. Arsenault Rivera

Epic fantasy inspired by Mongolian history.

The Red Wolf Conspiracy by Robert V.S. Redick

Nautical fantasy adventure.

What are your favourites? Share your recommendations in the comments.

Unlocking the Magic: A Beginner’s Guide to Sword and Sorcery Fantasy

Embark on a thrilling adventure with this beginner’s guide to Sword and Sorcery fantasy literature. Uncover this subgenre’s unique tropes, characters, and dive into our top ten recommended books.

Grab your enchanted swords and dust off your spellbooks, as today we’re delving into the rip-roaring world of Sword and Sorcery fantasy.

So, buckle up, or rather, belt up—we wouldn’t want your scabbards to slip, would we?

What is Sword and Sorcery?

Picture this: a rugged hero with biceps like boulders, wielding a sword so big that it’s probably compensating for something.

He’s joined by a sidekick who can summon a fireball quicker than you can say “abracadabra.”

Together, they’re thrust into a world of high adventure and low cunning, facing off against dastardly villains, ferocious monsters, and the occasional damsel in distress (or quite often, causing the distress).

Welcome to Sword and Sorcery. It’s a subgenre of fantasy that delightfully mashes up elements of action, adventure, magic, and a pinch of romance if we’re lucky.

It’s about the thrill of the quest, the clash of steel, and the incantation of mystic forces, all served with a healthy side of danger and daring-do.

How Does Sword and Sorcery Differ from Other Fantasy Subgenres?

You might be thinking, “Hold on, isn’t that just fantasy?”

Well, not quite.

Sword and Sorcery is like fantasy’s wild and unruly cousin, the one who turns up to the family reunion with a dragon’s tooth earring and a cloak made of griffin feathers.

While epic fantasy (think J.R.R. Tolkien’s “Lord of the Rings”) often focuses on world-shattering stakes, where the destiny of nations or even the whole world hangs in the balance, Sword and Sorcery is more intimate.

It’s about personal quests and small-scale conflicts.

Don’t get me wrong, there’s still plenty of action and adventure, but our heroes are more concerned with their own survival than saving the world.

And unlike high fantasy, which often takes itself rather seriously, Sword and Sorcery isn’t afraid to have a bit of fun.

It revels in its pulp fiction roots, so expect plenty of thrilling escapades, improbable plot twists, and a dash of witty banter.

What Tropes and Characters Can I Expect?

Ah, tropes, those delightful genre conventions that make us feel all warm and fuzzy inside. Sword and Sorcery has them in spades.

First off, our heroes. They tend to be roguish, adventurous types, more likely to solve problems with a sword than a soliloquy.

Think Robert E. Howard’s Conan the Barbarian, a chap who’s never met a problem he couldn’t cleave in two.

And then there’s the sorcerer, a wily character who’s handy to have around when you need a fireball or a convenient plot device.

Sword and Sorcery worlds are generally untamed and dangerous, filled with ancient ruins, cursed treasures, and a startling number of things with too many teeth.

Good job our heroes are usually quite adept at dealing with these. Or, if not adept, at least enthusiastic.

And let’s not forget the villains. They’re often dark sorcerers, tyrannical rulers, or monstrous beasts—sometimes all three in one if it’s been a slow day.

They’re as dastardly as they come, and our heroes will need all their brawn and brains to overcome them.

Sword and Sorcery is a subgenre that offers a thrilling ride, filled with daring heroes, nefarious villains, and plenty of sword-swinging action.

If you’re after some high-stakes adventure without the burden of saving the world, then this might just be the genre for you.

Ten Essential Sword and Sorcery Books for Novice Adventurers

Here are ten enchanting tales that will whisk you away to realms filled with brave knights, cunning sorcerers, and enough fantastical creatures to fill a dragon’s hoard.

“Conan the Barbarian” by Robert E. Howard

The book that started it all. Howard’s Conan is the quintessential warrior, battling foes with his brawn and outwitting them with his cunning. A word of caution, however: these tales are as rough and ready as their eponymous hero.

“The Broken Sword” by Poul Anderson

A splendid mix of Norse mythology and high fantasy, ‘The Broken Sword’ is a tale of stolen children and feuding gods. With its intricate plot and Anderson’s beautiful prose, this book is a must-read for anyone new to the genre.

“Elric of Melniboné” by Michael Moorcock

Elric, the albino emperor who wields the soul-drinking sword Stormbringer, is a character you won’t soon forget. This book is a wonderful introduction to Moorcock’s multiverse and the concept of the Eternal Champion.

“The Sword of Shannara” by Terry Brooks

Often compared to ‘The Lord of the Rings’, Brooks’s novel offers a fresh take on the hero’s journey. With its rich world-building and compelling characters, ‘The Sword of Shannara’ is a great starting point for new readers.

“The Witcher” series by Andrzej Sapkowski

Before it was a hit Netflix series, ‘The Witcher’ was a collection of captivating short stories and novels. Follow Geralt of Rivia as he navigates a world where morality is often as murky as a Witcher’s potion.

“The King’s Blades” series by Dave Duncan

Imagine a world where warriors are bonded to their monarch through magic, becoming his loyal Blades. Duncan’s series is full of political intrigue, thrilling battles, and a touch of humour.

“The Eyes of the Overworld” by Jack Vance

Follow the (mis)adventures of Cugel the Clever, Vance’s unscrupulous anti-hero. With its wry humour and imaginative world, this book is a delightful change of pace.

“The First Law” series by Joe Abercrombie

Abercrombie’s series is a dark and gritty take on the genre. With its complex characters and moral ambiguities, ‘The First Law’ is a brilliant introduction to grimdark fantasy.

“The Belgariad” by David Eddings

This five-book series is a classic tale of good versus evil. With its memorable characters and immersive world, ‘The Belgariad’ is an excellent starting point for new fantasy readers.

“Imaro” by Charles R. Saunders

Drawing from African history and mythology, ‘Imaro’ is a refreshing take on the Sword and Sorcery genre. Follow Imaro, a warrior on a quest for identity and belonging, across the vast landscapes of Nyumbani.

And there you have it, ten tomes to start your Sword and Sorcery adventure. But remember, the real magic is not just in the destination, but in the journey.

So, gather your courage, grab a book, and delve into the thrilling world of Sword and Sorcery. Happy reading!

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