Conan of Cimmeria

Robert E. Howard, L. Sprague de Camp, Lin Carter

"Conan of Cimmeria" is a collection of stories that captures the essence of Conan the Barbarian, one of the most iconic characters in fantasy literature. This volume, edited by L. Sprague de Camp and Lin Carter, brings together Robert E. Howard’s original tales along with additional stories and editorial efforts by de Camp and Carter. The collection offers readers a glimpse into Conan’s early adventures and further cements his place in the pantheon of legendary heroes.

Description of Stories

• "The Curse of the Monolith" (by L. Sprague de Camp and Lin Carter): Conan, serving as a captain in the Turanian army, encounters a mysterious and deadly monolith in the eastern deserts. This tale combines elements of horror and adventure. The story's atmosphere and sense of impending doom add depth to Conan's character as he faces supernatural threats.
• "The Blood-Stained God" (by Robert E. Howard and L. Sprague de Camp): Conan is drawn into a quest for a fabled treasure in the city of Larsha. The adventure is fraught with danger, treachery, and a touch of the macabre. The story's intrigue and the dynamic between the characters highlight Conan's cunning and survival skills.
• "The Frost-Giant's Daughter" (by Robert E. Howard): Set in the frozen north, Conan encounters a beautiful and deadly apparition, leading to a confrontation with mythical frost giants. This is one of Howard’s most atmospheric stories, capturing the harsh beauty and danger of the northern wastes.
• "The Lair of the Ice Worm" (by L. Sprague de Camp and Lin Carter): Conan ventures into the icy wilderness where he battles a monstrous ice worm. This story emphasizes Conan's resilience and resourcefulness in harsh environments. The vivid descriptions and relentless pace make this a thrilling read.
• "Queen of the Black Coast" (by Robert E. Howard): One of the most celebrated Conan stories, it tells of his romantic and adventurous escapades with the pirate queen Bêlit. Together, they raid the coastal cities and explore ancient ruins. The chemistry between Conan and Bêlit, along with the epic scope of their adventures, makes this a standout tale.
• "The Vale of Lost Women" (by Robert E. Howard): Conan rescues a captive woman from a savage tribe and encounters eldritch horrors in a mysterious valley. This story explores themes of freedom and survival. The dark, foreboding atmosphere and Conan’s complex moral code are central to the narrative.
• "The Castle of Terror" (by L. Sprague de Camp and Lin Carter): Conan faces off against supernatural forces in a haunted castle. This tale blends gothic horror with sword-and-sorcery action. The eerie setting and suspenseful plot add a different flavor to Conan’s adventures.
• "The Snout in the Dark" (by Robert E. Howard, L. Sprague de Camp, and Lin Carter): Conan gets entangled in political intrigue and dark sorcery in the city of Meroë. The story involves a mysterious creature terrorizing the populace. The interplay of politics and supernatural elements showcases Conan's adaptability and bravery.

"Conan of Cimmeria" is a very good collection that effectively balances the original brilliance of Robert E. Howard’s storytelling with the respectful and enriching expansions by L. Sprague de Camp and Lin Carter.

The collection offers a wide range of adventures, each with its own unique setting and challenges. This variety keeps the reader engaged and showcases Conan's versatility.

Conan is depicted as a multifaceted hero, with Howard’s original stories providing a solid foundation for his character development. De Camp and Carter's additions remain true to this portrayal.

The stories are rich in detail, creating immersive environments that enhance the narrative. Howard’s ability to craft vivid, believable worlds is complemented by de Camp and Carter’s efforts.

The transition between Howard’s prose and the contributions of de Camp and Carter can be noticeable. While de Camp and Carter are competent writers, their style occasionally lacks the raw energy and intensity of Howard’s originals.

Some Conan purists might prefer Howard’s unaltered work and could find the additions by de Camp and Carter less satisfying.

"Conan of Cimmeria" is a very good collection that offers a rich and varied exploration of Conan’s early adventures. The blend of Robert E. Howard’s original stories with the respectful additions by L. Sprague de Camp and Lin Carter creates a cohesive and engaging anthology that both long-time fans and new readers will appreciate.