The Sword & the Sorcerer

I must let it be known that I've never actually seen the motion picture that this was written from. With that recognized, I am reviewing this as a pure fantasy novel on its own merit. As a writer, Norman Winski is quite capable, and the tale flows freely without any bumps or grinds from a readers perspective. The book as a whole reminded me of the old-school pulp fantasy classics similar to Moorcock or Howard. I'm not saying he's as talented as those masters, but the style and story are in the same vein, and if you take the script at face value, you should find it quite good. The hero is likable, the primary villain is despicable, and there are several interesting twists, wizardry, and action scenes to keep you reading on. It's an easy page-turner, and you'll be finished in a single afternoon if you wish. I did have one complaint. At times, it was a little too overtly sexual. Not that there were too many sexual scenes, per se, but the characters themselves seem to be in a constant state of sexual arousal. Phrases such as "the massive bulge beneath his leggings", etc. are used far too often for no apparent reason. Many of these types of descriptions could have been left out. Overall, it was an entertaining read. Not something I'd consider an all-time great, but well worth the time and (little) money I spent.