Now if you wanted a story that was slightly more typical of the old style of sword and sorcery, Jeff Draper's "The Battle Of Raven Kill" fits the bill nicely. Oth chooses to stand and fight so his clan's people can escape those who would kill them all. While they flee in an attempt to find some safe haven he blocks the one narrow bridge the invaders have to cross to get at them. He knows they can only come at him two at a time and he is willing to buy his people time as long a there is life left in his body.
Draper does a great job of describing the action, and keeping it real. Movies will sometimes show a single man holding dozens at bay when they can only get at him one or two at a time, but somehow they don't seem to be able to capture the reality of the desperation that must grip the person making that stand. Oth knows that his chances of survival are slim, but he knows the longer he can survive the better. As the battle continues he takes wounds. At first they're minor, but as they continue to bleed and his reflexes slow from blood loss and fatigue, the wounds inflicted gain in severity.
"Why don't you just die?" the opposing war chief keeps taunting Oth. Finding a reason for being put on the earth is something that plagues many people. For Oth, this moment on the bridge where he has chosen to make his stand to preserve his people, is that reason. "Let this be why I was created" he prays just before the enemy's war party shows up. Duty and self are one for him, and as long he holds onto that he will win. Doubt, not the swords and spears of his foe, is his biggest enemy.
Draper has done a masterful job of giving a very realistic description of close and horrible infighting. No matter what some sword and sorcery writers will have you believe, it is impossible for a mere human to fight under such circumstances without having damage inflicted upon them. But sometimes the human spirit is stronger than flesh, and Draper makes that come alive as well.
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!