This collection contains all of Robert E. Howard's Conan the Cimmerian stories published during his lifetime, contextualized with biographical details of their author.

The Gods of Bal-Sagoth is an adventure-fantasy story by Robert E. Howard, first published in 1931. The tale follows Turlogh Dubh O'Brien, an Irish warrior and mercenary, who finds himself caught in a storm at sea and cast ashore on a mysterious, uncharted island. There, he encounters Athelstane, a Viking prince who leads him to the legendary lost city of Bal-Sagoth. The city, once ruled by an ancient, god-like race, is now in decline, its people divided and warring among themselves.

The Fire of Asshurbanipal by Robert E. Howard is a thrilling adventure story with elements of supernatural horror, blending historical mystery with the timeless allure of lost treasures. Set in the deserts of the Middle East, the tale follows two treasure hunters—Steve Clarney, an American adventurer, and Yar Ali, his Afghan companion—on their dangerous quest to uncover an ancient artifact known as the Fire of Asshurbanipal.

Worms of the Earth is a dark fantasy story by Robert E. Howard, first published in 1932. Set in the world of Roman-occupied Britain, the tale follows Bran Mak Morn, the last king of the Picts, as he seeks revenge against the oppressive Roman Empire. When a Roman official publicly tortures and humiliates one of Bran's people, the Pictish leader turns to an ancient, forbidden race— the Worms of the Earth— for help in exacting his vengeance.

The Children of the Night is a short story written by Robert E. Howard, first published in 1931. The tale is a blend of horror, dark fantasy, and the supernatural, typical of Howard's style. It centers around a group of scholars and intellectuals who gather to discuss ancient history and the occult. One of the central characters, John O'Donnell, finds himself inexplicably drawn to an ancient skull during their conversation.