This was actually one of the original short stories by Robert E Howard — creator of Conan. I’ve been meaning to read more of his stories for a while. I remember having read Conan: The Conqueror, which was a very good read as well.
The story starts off with Conan as King Conan of Aquilonia, a civilized and mighty Kingdom in Robert E Howard’s world. It may appear odd to readers new to Conan stories that he is a King. His barbaric ways tend to run counter to the ways of a typical ruler in Aquilonia. In my mind Conan was ever the barbarian, and the muscle-packed warrior. However, the story develops quite well by introducing conspirators who threaten Conan’s rule for power and greed, and there is a bit of sorcery introduced.
Some of the sorcery seems a bit farfetched, but it is also done with a pinch of surprise and mysticism that is very pleasurable to read.
I hope to read another Robert E Howard story immediately.
Read my Conan reviews: