Book Review 227 // The Hyborian Age by Robert E. Howard

I enter a title I wouldn't traditionally read as part of my completionist ways. More of an encyclopedia of the stories' lore than an adventure tale. I've tried reading one similar about the Lord of the Rings and saying it bored me would be an understatement. Here's hoping this one goes better.

Title: The Hyborian Age

Author: Robert E. Howard

Blurb: Nothing in this article is to be considered as an attempt to advance any theory in opposition to accepted history. It is simply a fictional background for a series of fiction-stories. When I began writing the Conan stories a few years ago, I prepared this 'history' of his age and the peoples of that age, in order to lend him and his sagas a greater aspect of realness. And I found that by adhering to the 'facts' and spirit of that history, in writing the stories, it was easier to visualize (and therefore to present) him as a real flesh- and-blood character rather than a ready-made product. In writing about him and his adventures in the various kingdoms of his Age, I have never violated the 'facts' or spirit of the 'history' here set down, but have followed the lines of that history as closely as the writer of actual historical-fiction follows the lines of actual history. I have used this 'history' as a guide in all the stories in this series that I have written.

Review

Yeah still rather dull. I am sure there is a lot here that people would love if they enjoyed a deep dive into a character's world and timeline. A highlight for me was the Hyborian World map. This is going to be open on the iPad whilst I read so I can reference locations etc as Conan adventures across the known world.

There is a lot to take in, turns out Howard has crammed a lot into his little section of the world. So many countries, nations, and race names getting mentioned can be rather overwhelming at times. It soon all started to blend in with each other, and I found myself drifting away more than once, entering more of a studying daze than an enjoyment of reading. And by the end, I was happy to move on with my life.

Overall it's not a needed piece of writing if you are hoping to enjoy Conan yourself. If you are weird like me and have to complete everything all I can say is "Good Luck!".