December 14, 2009
The late Howard (1906–1936) is best known for his sword-and-sorcery stories, but he was a prolific author whose work spanned many genres. This collection focuses on his Central Asian stories, offering 11 tales of derring-do along with various miscellanea and supplemental materials. Much of the book is devoted to Francis “El Borak” Gordon, an American caught up in the struggle among various imperial powers who seek control of the regions north of India. More self-centered adventurers like Kirby O’Donnell and Steve Clarney get fewer pages, but provide an interesting contrast with Gordon’s loyalty to his friends of all races. Many elements of these stories have aged badly, but Howard’s skill as a writer and his enthusiasm for the subject matter are undeniable. Illus. by Tim Bradstreet and Jim & Ruth Keegan not seen by PW
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November 15, 2009
The latest addition to the Del Rey library of classic works by the famed fantasy author and originator of the Conan novels gathers seven adventure tales of the "wild East" featuring the resourceful and ever-gallant gunslinger-turned-adventurer Francis Xavier Gordonknown to his Middle Eastern friends and enemies as El Borak ("the Swift")along with other exotic adventure stories set in Howard's beloved desert and mountain landscapes. VERDICT Fans of 1930s heroic fiction as well as Howard enthusiasts should enjoy these splendidly visual tales, filled with action and derring-do.
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