Swords & Dark Magic The New Sword And Sorcery
For fans of fantasy fiction, the sword and sorcery genre has always been a favorite. It is a subgenre that combines elements of epic fantasy with action and adventure, often featuring protagonists who are skilled fighters and powerful mages. Over the years, there have been many great sword and sorcery stories, but none quite like "Swords & Dark Magic: The New Sword and Sorcery."
What is "Swords & Dark Magic"?
"Swords & Dark Magic: The New Sword and Sorcery" is an anthology of short stories edited by Jonathan Strahan and Lou Anders. The book was first published in 2010 and features some of the biggest names in fantasy fiction, including George R.R. Martin, Steven Erikson, and Glen Cook. The stories in the book are set in various fictional worlds and feature a range of characters, from warrior women to cunning thieves.
The book's title, "Swords & Dark Magic," is a nod to the two key elements of sword and sorcery stories. Swords represent the action and adventure, while dark magic represents the supernatural and fantastical.
The Stories
The stories in "Swords & Dark Magic" are diverse and varied, showcasing the many different ways that writers approach sword and sorcery. Some stories are set in established fantasy worlds, such as Steven Erikson's "Goats of Glory," which takes place in the Malazan Book of the Fallen universe. Other stories, like Michael Moorcock's "The Sea Troll's Daughter," are set in completely original worlds.
One of the standout stories in the book is "A Rich Full Week" by K.J. Parker. The story follows a master thief named Barl and his apprentice as they attempt to pull off a daring heist. The story is full of twists and turns, and the characters are well-drawn and complex.
Another great story in the book is "The Singing Spear" by James Enge. The story follows the adventures of Morlock Ambrosius, a sorcerer-warrior who is tasked with retrieving a magical spear. Like many of the stories in "Swords & Dark Magic," "The Singing Spear" is full of action and adventure, but it also has a strong emotional core.
The Legacy of "Swords & Dark Magic"
"Swords & Dark Magic" was well-received by both critics and fans of the sword and sorcery genre. It was praised for its diversity of stories and its inclusion of both established and up-and-coming writers. It also helped to bring the sword and sorcery genre back into the mainstream, inspiring a new generation of writers to explore the world of action, adventure, and magic.
Since its publication, "Swords & Dark Magic" has become a beloved book among fans of fantasy fiction. It is often cited as one of the best anthologies of sword and sorcery stories ever published, and it continues to inspire readers and writers alike.
Conclusion
If you're a fan of sword and sorcery fiction, then "Swords & Dark Magic: The New Sword and Sorcery" is a must-read. This anthology of short stories features some of the biggest names in fantasy fiction and showcases the many different ways that writers approach the genre. Whether you're looking for action, adventure, or magic, this book has something for everyone.
