After finishing up the first three of Robert Jordan’s Conan novels in June, I noticed that Poul Anderson had also written a pastiche titled Conan the Rebel that was published in 1980. Having this name behind it alone had my interest but my interest was drawn further upon learning it was set during Conan’s time with Bêlit in Queen of the Black Coast. I found an old paperback for a reasonable enough price and quickly read through it just recently.
Before the review, let me get a minor annoyance out of the way that has nothing to do with the contents of the novel. I get a bit frustrated at times with item descriptions for used books. This one was described as being in “very good” condition which it certainly wasn’t by the definitions booksellers use. I don’t expect a paperback that is over forty years old to be perfect but this was in fair to good condition at best. The spine is damaged, the pages are yellowed and there are creases everywhere but it was not so bad that it was worth going through the hassle of returning it. I just wish sellers would be more honest. As it happens, this didn’t turn out to be any sort of gem I’ll hold onto so ultimately, it doesn’t matter.
Now onto the review.
