One of the highly regarded Conan novels is 'Conan the Barbarian' by Robert E. Howard. It introduced the iconic character of Conan in a vivid and engaging way, with his adventures in a brutal and fantastical world filled with sword - fighting, magic, and ancient mysteries.
It's subjective as different people have different preferences. But 'The Secret of the Black Organization' is highly regarded by many for its thrilling plot and unexpected twists.
Another great one is 'Conan the Destroyer'. This novel delves deeper into Conan's complex personality. It has some amazing battle scenes and the plot twists keep you on the edge of your seat. The relationships Conan forms with other characters in this story add an extra layer of depth to the overall narrative.
In my opinion, 'A Scandal in Bohemia' is a top-notch Conan story. It's interesting because it shows Holmes being outwitted by Irene Adler, a woman who manages to outmaneuver him. This story adds a layer of complexity to Holmes' character and the whole Sherlockian universe.
One of the best Conan stories is 'The Tower of the Elephant'. It features Conan's early adventures in the city of Zamora. He climbs a mysterious tower to face a powerful and otherworldly being, showing his courage and tenacity in the face of the unknown.
For me, 'Queen of the Black Coast' stands out. It has a compelling story with adventure and romance. The way Howard describes the settings and Conan's encounters is just fantastic.
One of the best Howard Conan stories is 'The Phoenix on the Sword'. It shows Conan's rise to power and his ability to face complex political and supernatural threats. Conan's strength and cunning are on full display in this story.
Some of the well - regarded Conan the Barbarian novels include 'Conan the Adventurer'. It vividly depicts Conan's adventures in a dangerous and mysterious world filled with magic and combat.
The 'Red - Headed League' is also a great Conan short story. It starts with a very strange premise - a league for red - headed men with a rather large payment for very simple tasks. Holmes quickly deduces that there is something much more sinister going on behind the scenes. It's full of mystery and intrigue and is a classic example of Conan Doyle's ability to create a captivating mystery.
There are also some collections that are carefully curated by fans or scholars over the years. These might include not only the original stories but also some analysis and background information. For example, some collections might have essays on how Conan Doyle was inspired to create certain characters or plotlines. Such a collection can offer a more in - depth understanding of the Conan stories, making it a great addition to the list of the best collections.