Ill Met in Lankhmar

Fritz Leiber's Lankhmar series is an absolute cornerstone of modern fantasy, and "Ill Met in Lankhmar" stands as a potent testament to this. Within this collection, White Wolf masterfully presents the entirety of Leiber's seven-novelette Lankhmar saga, across four volumes, with this particular offering including the foundational tales "Swords and Deviltry" and "Swords Against Death." These narratives plunge readers into the heart of the legendary city of Lankhmar and its surrounding, often treacherous, world. Here, the incomparable duo of Fafhrd, the tall, barbarian warrior, and the Grey Mouser, his nimble, city-wise companion, forge their unforgettable legend. Their adventures embody the very essence of what would become the sword-and-sorcery genre, filled with daring escapades, morally ambiguous choices, and a healthy dose of dark humor. "Ill Met in Lankhmar" deserves its place on any list of Fritz Leiber's best because it showcases his unparalleled ability to craft vivid, atmospheric settings and compelling, complex characters. Leiber doesn't just give us heroes; he gives us flawed, pragmatic rogues who survive by their wits and their blades in a world that is both wondrous and brutal. The sheer inventiveness of Lankhmar itself – a sprawling metropolis teeming with life, intrigue, and ancient secrets – is a character in its own right, a place where magic and mayhem are constant companions. For anyone seeking to understand the roots of modern fantasy, or simply to be swept away by thrilling, imaginative storytelling, this collection is an essential and deeply rewarding experience, solidifying Leiber's status as a literary titan.