Well, 'Red Nails' is often considered a standout. It has complex characters and a richly detailed world. 'Beyond the Black River' is another great choice, with its intense action and adventure.
Some of the top Robert E Howard short stories include 'Worms of the Earth'. This story is fascinating as it delves into themes of vengeance and the power of the old gods. 'Beyond the Black River' is excellent too. It gives a great view of the frontier and the perils that lie there. Also, 'The Vale of Lost Women' is a good pick. It has a great mix of adventure, danger, and the allure of the unknown, all written in Howard's signature gritty style.
One of the popular stories might be 'Conan the Barbarian' - related ones. Conan is a very well - known character created by Howard. His adventures are full of action, battles, and exploration in a fictional, often brutal world.
Well, 'Solomon Kane' is a top choice. The character and the plot are really engaging. Also, 'Red Nails' is highly regarded for its intense story and vivid settings.
I'd recommend 'The Phoenix on the Sword'. It's relatively easy to get into and gives a good taste of Howard's writing style. It has action, magic, and a touch of the macabre.
Howard's characters were also very influential. His heroes, such as Conan, were not just strong physically but also had complex personalities. They had their own code of ethics and desires, which added depth to the genre. His stories often had a sense of moral ambiguity, which was different from the more straightforward good - vs - evil stories of the time. This made his works more thought - provoking and influenced how future writers in the genre crafted their characters and plots.
Some of the best include 'The Phoenix on the Sword'. It's a great Conan story that showcases his rise to power and his ability to face supernatural threats. It has a great mix of action and mystery.
The 'Solomon Kane' stories are also great. Kane is a Puritan adventurer. Howard weaves tales of Kane's travels through dark and dangerous lands, facing evil in various forms. His moral code and his battles against the forces of darkness make for some really good reading.