In the modern fantasy literature paradigm, where authors seem unable to write a good tale in less than a dozen 900 page volumes, and without at least 12 main characters and hundreds and hundreds of supporting minor characters, it is quite refreshing to find a short story collection such as For Simple Coin.
Mr. Ronald manages to deliver the perfect blend of Robert E. Howard and Fritz Leiber in his stories. Fast-paced, exciting action scenes involving flashing knives and swords serve to accentuate interesting plots of intrigue against the backdrop of a city which, like Lankhmar, Adrilankha, Shadizar of Zamora, Sanctuary and Haven, comes alive to enrich every tale. There's even an homage to a cult classic movie in there. Can you dig it?
Swords, wizards, demons, knives, knaves... All the elements found in modern fantasy fare, but elegantly envisioned and delivered in the style of classic sword and sorcery.
One can only hope that this is the first of many more to come.
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