N15: Swords and Deviltry by Fritz Leiber

Book Review!

N15: Swords and Deviltry by Fritz Leiber

In “Appendix N” Gary Gygax credited Fritz Leiber as one of the strongest influences for D&D, specifically named the series that begins with the book Swords and Deviltry - the stories of the adventures of Fafhrd and the Gray Mouser. My paperback copy of the book includes 152 pages and I enjoyed reading every page.

The Good

*This book shows Fafhrd running away from his barbarian people, thus giving his origin story in the beginning before later giving the Gray Mouser’s background as well.

*The characters felt real and the scenes generated lots of excitement.

The Bad

*Some people might complain about the ending of the story.

D&D Connections & Inspirations

*The D&D folks actually worked with Leiber and released modules for his world of Lankmar setting.

*The 2 main characters come across as a fun adventuring party, willing to journey from place to place for a chance at getting rich.

Overall

For my tastes, I give the work a 9/10 rating.