Description
One of Robert E. Howard’s inspired novellas about Conan the Cimmerian and his adventures, A Witch Shall Be Born focuses on a unique story that was conceived in just a few days in 1934. Conan, who is the loyal captain of the queen’s guard in this enchanting and exciting tale, is faced with a puzzling dilemma when the queen’s twin sister ends up replacing her. Fears of secret schemes and plots dominate the story, as elements of conflict between barbarism and civilization are present throughout the novel. Along with Howard’s elegant and inviting style, the gradually growing complexity of the plot, the sudden twists that will take your breath away make A Witch Shall be Born one of the more intense writings of American Pulp fantasy that readers truly enjoy. Robert E. Howard is considered a literary icon of American Pulp writing, as well as renowned for his accomplished use of fantasy, horror and adventure elements. His works are often compared to famous names in popular culture, such as Tarzan of the Apes, or even to the Sherlock Holmes series. While Howard’s style is imbued more with themes revolving around barbarism and extreme endurance that see Conan the Cimmerian almost crucified and Queen Taramis thrown in the dungeon by her sister Salome, it also features a complex, methodical plot that shows Conan outwitting the new queen in his attempt to restore order. A theme of paranoia and duality is present throughout the novel, with the two siblings presented in extreme antagonism toward each other, and Salome being in a constant inner struggle as she feels threatened by Conan and her twin sister. You will thoroughly enjoy this well-written and exciting tale of adventure, heroics and fantasy, which never seems to show a dull moment, and manages to introduce plot twists that can fascinate and thrill readers even decades after their inception.