Of course that's not to say there aren't stories in the collection that show a fond attachment for those roots, and feature lots of good old-fashioned sword play and witchcraft. Let's face it, there's always going to be a market and a need for that type of story, but here they're balanced with stories that delve a little deeper into the psyche of the warrior, and look beneath the armour, behind the shield, and under the helm.
The very first story in the collection, "Alter Of The Moon" by Stacey Berg, is an example of the newer style. Now don't be put off by the title, it's not some New Age, pagan priestess propaganda posing as a fantasy story, rather it's about the price a warrior pays for being a hero, and the price paid for the gift of a magic sword.
Karen had saved her kingdom with the mysterious sword that sang to her and her alone. On the night of a new moon, with her homeland on the verge of destruction the sword called her to it, and gifted her with it's song that made her invincible in battle. Step by step, battle by battle Karen had fought until she had repelled the invading forces and her land was safe and at peace. Yet when the final battle was fought, and the last enemy fled, she was not at peace, as the sword still sang it's deadly song in her ear.
A dream takes her on a desperate journey; a dream of a path that may not exist. Yet if it does, it might just see her being rid of the sword and breaking free of the killing song in her head. While "Alter Of The Moon" is not your typical adventure story, Ms. Berg has included most of the elements that we have come to expect from sword and sorcery; magic, swordplay, and mystery. It was even irrelevant that the characters were women, they could just as easily have been men. What mattered was telling the story and Ms Berg did a great job of that which is what matters most of all.
Article comments
1 - Vivian
The review gives a deep understanding of the writing and impact of the stories in this book. I'm not a fantasy fan, usually, but after reading Richard Marcus' take on "The Battle of Raven Kill," I know I must read this book.
Vivian
2 - Ty
As one of the writers who has work appearing in this book, I offer a great big "thank you" for this review. I'm glad to see there are still those who appreciate that fiction can be fun escapism!
3 - Scath
Very well-written review that has 'The Return of the Sword' on my to buy list.
4 - Elizabeth Barrette
I'm delighted to see both this anthology and its parent magazine getting the attention they deserve. As a reviewer, I see far too much "McFantasy" these days ... but I still love the old high fantasy when it's well done instead of just a rip-off. I'm glad there's a market for it.
Also worth mentioning is Ursula Vernon's novel _Black Dogs Part One: The House of Diamond_ from Sofawolf Press. It's like discovering the genre again for the first time: classic tropes done with fresh voice.
There are still some folks writing and buying this stuff, for readers who are willing to hunt around.
5 - Jeff Draper
You know, it's a bit embarrassing for a writer of heroic fantasy to admit but this review made me giggle like a schoolgirl. Richard, I'm very glad you liked the story and thank you for the excellent review. What's even better for all of you that may run out and buy it: mine's not the best story in there. It's a great collection that is working hard to revitalize the genre, one gout of blood at a time.
For those who might be interested in some 'behind the scenes' type stuff regarding "The Battle of Raven Kill" you can visit my blog at the URL beside my name here.
6 - Suanne
This anthologies been on my list to buy for a while now, but I never seem to get farther than that--until tonight! Thanks for providing the impetus to get me purchasing. :)
7 - Steve Goble
Thanks for bringing this book to your readers' attention. It is one fun book, and not a boring page in it.
-- Steve
8 - Steve Goble
Thanks for bringing this book to your readers' attention. It is one fun book, and not a boring page in it.
-- Steve
9 - Rob
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this book. Kind words are always helpful for those interested in buying a copy.
10 - Dianne
Thank you for writing this in-depth review of the new anthology. For those of us who love this genre, take a look at this publisher's magazine, Flashing Swords.
It's heart warming to know that others want to read great Sword & Sorcery stories!
- Dianne
11 - Michael Ehart
Thank you for the kind words! I am another writer in the anthology, and I have to agree-- there are a lot of fun stories here.
12 - Michael D. Turner
An excellent review of an extrodinary book. Thanks.
13 - Jason M. Waltz
Hi Richard!
Any chance you are able to update the publisher name and link to the correct publisher's website for Return of the Sword?
I bought out Flashing Swords Press (the FS Magazine still exists) and rights to the book and became Rogue Blades Entertainment.
If you'd like a new cover image properly reflecting the change, I can provide one.
Thanks!
14 - Jason M. Waltz
Thank you for updating the review, Richard.
Keep up the great work - and get ready for the next RBE title coming in June!