Blades and Black Magic

Sword & Sorcery means several things to many people. To me it means Attitude and Freedom. The Attitude to live life to the fullest—no matter what may come. The Freedom to take that option—no matter what it may cost. Sword & Sorcery tales are undeniably songs of deeds. So tell me tales of heroes who stand in the gap at the moment of need, who take the battle to the diabolical foes, who turn their back upon the easy life and seek a greater challenge. Any greater challenge. Every greater challenge. This is what I asked of all those answering Raconteur Press’ first open call for Sword & Sorcery tales. As you’ll discover over the ensuing pages—they answered with roars of joy and eager smiles. With drawn blades and sly grins, with keen eyes and quick hearts, they stormed the abandoned ruined castles and dungeons filled with the stench of evil, the lairs of chaos, the horrors of the grave, and shared their tales. I smile even as I type this, recalling the stories of sheer passionate thirst for living lives that dare Death to come for them and just try to take them that lie ahead of you.