The First Swords: The Book of Swords, Volumes I, II, III

by Fred Saberhagen

Book Overview

Fred Saberhagen's Book of Swords novels have captivated fantasy readers for more than a decade. Here, now available in one volume, are the three books that started it all. For a game the gods have... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0312869169
• ISBN13: 9780312869168
• Release Date: January 1999
• Publisher: Tor Books
• Length: 608 Pages
• Weight: 1.60 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.7" x 5.9" x 9.0"

Customer Reviews

2nd Time Reading!

Fred Saberhagen was ahead of his time, Loved this book when I was in the Navy!! The Berserker Series was very Good, but these books, Book of Sword's & Lost Sword's , was Very Different than any thing I had read uptil this time. He opened me up to so many other authors!! Great Story...

Completely Entertaining

As the title suggests this is the complete book of the first three sword books. If you are a fantasy fan it is a must read. From the opening epilogue of Vulcan forging the 12 swords, Saberhagen will captivate you to finish the first book and the remaining two. It starts out describing the smith god with somewhat human characteristics and very descriptive action scenes, that take the human condition and forge them into the 12 swords. It starts off as a game of the gods but later turns out to be the architecture of their demise. The development of the key characters is second to none. Saberhagen conveys a deep connection with Mark and Ben even Marks father Jord. I would only say that the laps between the books does leave the read in wonder a little, there is a little of a time lapse, where I think the author could supply us with some more details, but this does not take anything away from the substance of the stories. This compilation sets the stage rather nicely for the books to follow which tell of the exploits of the remaining swords. So sit back and enjoy this carefree read!!

Fred Saberhagen's Swords Series

After only reading the first book, I plan to purchase the entire series. Perhaps I'm a sucker for collectables, but this collection seems too good to pass up. If you like the Sword series, I'd also suggest two other authors.The first is Roger Zelazny. The Amber series is full of intrigue and action, not to mention it is 10 books long. Good stuff. You can get the 1000+ page complete series in an unabridged "big book".Second is R.A. Salvatore's Demon series. Demon Awakens, Demon Spirit, and Demon Apostile are 3 of the best literary works I have ever read. Even now, the series continues with a fresh take on the aftermath of the 3 original books. Also a must have.Hope this helps you make your decision =)

Good Book GREAT Series

This book is another in the complete set of stories, about 12 swords each with a different special ability, I loved all his books so far, and hope it will stay the same for the rest of the series. You feel connected with the charectors of Mark Ben and Barbra. Once you get to the battles its hard to put it down it is some beuatifully written. I loved these books soo much I created an RPG Game from it, which all my friends play!!

An entertaining and exciting book!!

Fred Saberhagen really did it this time. Combining a great plot, wonderful universe, and interesting characters this book will keep you turning pages. I especialy liked the old world tech parts and the Benambra's gold adventure. If your into fantasy, and great writing, then this book is a must read.

A Definate Must Read For All Fantasy Buffs!!

If you are like me and hate to pick up a book that leaves you wishing you hadn't, then Buy this book and its followers! I literally could not put it down. When it comes to good writing and good reading Fred Saberhagen has done it. The Setting reminds me of our "Dark Ages" yet tis much better! And tis not only for the lads out there, but the lasses too.I refuse to give this series away just remember this, Its good reading and a Must Buy for one and all!!