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Thongor #3
Thongor contro gli Dei - Delta Fantascienza 9
The Dark Lord's Decree: DEATH!
At first Thongor's goal seems simple - rescue his princess from her kidnapper. But on the lost continent of ancient Lemuria, where science is hardly distinguishable from sorcery, things are seldom clear-cut. Soon Thongor finds his mighty Valkarthan sword pitted against the sinister magic of those who serve the Black Gods of Chaos.
Wherever danger threatens, Thongor must be ready to fight - for the survival of mankind depends on the outcome of his cosmic contest!
At first Thongor's goal seems simple - rescue his princess from her kidnapper. But on the lost continent of ancient Lemuria, where science is hardly distinguishable from sorcery, things are seldom clear-cut. Soon Thongor finds his mighty Valkarthan sword pitted against the sinister magic of those who serve the Black Gods of Chaos.
Wherever danger threatens, Thongor must be ready to fight - for the survival of mankind depends on the outcome of his cosmic contest!
192 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1967
12 people are currently reading
196 people want to read
About the author
Lin Carter
426 books171 followersLin Carter was an American author, editor, and critic best known for his influential role in fantasy literature during the mid-20th century. Born in St. Petersburg, Florida, he developed an early passion for myth, adventure stories, and imaginative fiction, drawing inspiration from authors such as Edgar Rice Burroughs, Robert E. Howard, H. P. Lovecraft, and J. R. R. Tolkien. After serving in the U.S. Army, Carter attended Columbia University, where he honed his literary skills and deepened his knowledge of classical and medieval literature, myth, and folklore — elements that would become central to his work.
Carter authored numerous novels, short stories, and critical studies, often working within the sword-and-sorcery and high fantasy traditions. His own creations, such as the “Thongor of Lemuria” series, paid homage to pulp-era adventure fiction while adding his distinctive voice and world-building style. His nonfiction book Tolkien: A Look Behind The Lord of the Rings was one of the first major studies of Tolkien’s work and its mythological roots, and it helped establish Carter as a knowledgeable commentator on fantasy literature.
Beyond his own writing, Carter was a central figure in bringing classic and forgotten works of fantasy back into print. As editor of the Ballantine Adult Fantasy series from 1969 to 1974, he curated and introduced dozens of volumes, reintroducing readers to authors such as William Morris, Lord Dunsany, E. R. Eddison, and James Branch Cabell. His introductions not only contextualized these works historically and literarily but also encouraged a new generation to explore the breadth of the fantasy tradition.
Carter was also active in the shared literary universe of the “Cthulhu Mythos,” expanding upon the creations of H. P. Lovecraft and other members of the “Lovecraft Circle.” His collaborations and solo contributions in this genre further cemented his reputation as both a creative writer and a literary preservationist.
In addition to fiction and criticism, Carter was an active member of several science fiction and fantasy organizations, including the Science Fiction Writers of America. He frequently appeared at conventions, where he was known for his enthusiasm, deep knowledge of the genre, and willingness to mentor aspiring writers.
Though sometimes critiqued for the derivative nature of some of his work, Carter’s influence on the fantasy revival of the late 20th century remains significant. His combination of creative output, editorial vision, and scholarly enthusiasm helped bridge the gap between the pulp traditions of the early 1900s and the expansive fantasy publishing boom that followed.
Lin Carter’s legacy endures through his own imaginative tales, his critical studies, and the many classic works he rescued from obscurity, ensuring their place in the canon of fantasy literature for generations to come.
Carter authored numerous novels, short stories, and critical studies, often working within the sword-and-sorcery and high fantasy traditions. His own creations, such as the “Thongor of Lemuria” series, paid homage to pulp-era adventure fiction while adding his distinctive voice and world-building style. His nonfiction book Tolkien: A Look Behind The Lord of the Rings was one of the first major studies of Tolkien’s work and its mythological roots, and it helped establish Carter as a knowledgeable commentator on fantasy literature.
Beyond his own writing, Carter was a central figure in bringing classic and forgotten works of fantasy back into print. As editor of the Ballantine Adult Fantasy series from 1969 to 1974, he curated and introduced dozens of volumes, reintroducing readers to authors such as William Morris, Lord Dunsany, E. R. Eddison, and James Branch Cabell. His introductions not only contextualized these works historically and literarily but also encouraged a new generation to explore the breadth of the fantasy tradition.
Carter was also active in the shared literary universe of the “Cthulhu Mythos,” expanding upon the creations of H. P. Lovecraft and other members of the “Lovecraft Circle.” His collaborations and solo contributions in this genre further cemented his reputation as both a creative writer and a literary preservationist.
In addition to fiction and criticism, Carter was an active member of several science fiction and fantasy organizations, including the Science Fiction Writers of America. He frequently appeared at conventions, where he was known for his enthusiasm, deep knowledge of the genre, and willingness to mentor aspiring writers.
Though sometimes critiqued for the derivative nature of some of his work, Carter’s influence on the fantasy revival of the late 20th century remains significant. His combination of creative output, editorial vision, and scholarly enthusiasm helped bridge the gap between the pulp traditions of the early 1900s and the expansive fantasy publishing boom that followed.
Lin Carter’s legacy endures through his own imaginative tales, his critical studies, and the many classic works he rescued from obscurity, ensuring their place in the canon of fantasy literature for generations to come.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
August 24, 2023
Four of Thongor’s enemies in Tsargol he hatch a plot to take out our hero by assigning a mercenary to kidnap Thongor’s wife Sumia and their young infant son.
The plan goes awry leading to Thongor’s pursuit of the villains airboat while in his airboat and a grand adventure involving the nine foot tall blue skinned Rmoahal warriors, narrow escapes, various captures and a battle in Tsargol.
Carter writes a good tale featuring his warrior hero and supporting cast as well as a handful of nasty mages and rogues.
The plan goes awry leading to Thongor’s pursuit of the villains airboat while in his airboat and a grand adventure involving the nine foot tall blue skinned Rmoahal warriors, narrow escapes, various captures and a battle in Tsargol.
Carter writes a good tale featuring his warrior hero and supporting cast as well as a handful of nasty mages and rogues.
April 13, 2015
Lin Carter falls into a pattern as he gets lazy or disinterested: stories become a series of crises strung together by narrative melodrama and cliffhanger chapter endings, the problems resolved with unlikely turnarounds and no net plot advancement, and elements recycled from other stories. In this case, it also gets bogged down into 'jungle adventure', which I didn't enjoy when reading Edgar Rice Burroughs and certainly don't enjoy here.
The sad part is that the villains are never allowed to stew in their rank villainy to the point where their defeat is satisfying to the reader. Zandor Zan, whose attempt at kidnapping starts all this mess, disappears for half the story, only to reappear briefly in order to be summarily eliminated. Likewise, his employers are busy twirling their standard-issue mustaches and not seen or heard until it becomes time for the inevitable battle scene.
The sad part is that the villains are never allowed to stew in their rank villainy to the point where their defeat is satisfying to the reader. Zandor Zan, whose attempt at kidnapping starts all this mess, disappears for half the story, only to reappear briefly in order to be summarily eliminated. Likewise, his employers are busy twirling their standard-issue mustaches and not seen or heard until it becomes time for the inevitable battle scene.
January 22, 2016
A good fantasy series from the 1970s. Quick, enjoyable, easy read. Recommended
June 10, 2018
This was the first Lin Carter novel I’ve read read, after hearing so much negativity about his less than stellar, shall we say, narrative abilities. I actually enjoyed this book quite a bit, though, I can see why some take issue with his overdone superlatives and scant endings, not to mention scene changes. It was a predictable, easy, but overall enjoyable read, with more than enough action to keep it interesting. My biggest beef though, is that I don’t recall reading anything about any kind of android or robot soldier anywhere in this book, so I’m not sure what to make of the cover (my edition shows what I would take to be one of the main characters, Karm Karvus, in that he was described as such as the character on the cover...but the smoldering robot doesn’t get a mention). In summary, I enjoyed the book, and am looking forward to my next Thongor adventure!
July 26, 2010
Great title, but the book is about average for the Thongor series.
September 20, 2020
This is the third Thongor adventure by Lin Carter, and I have to say so far it’s the only one I’ve really enjoyed. I read the first two back-to-back, waited a day or so, then VERY RELUCTANTLY tackled this one. I think it was the Frazetta cover that clinched it for me. I read it in less than a day (these books don’t require much brain function) and after two days of blistering headaches from rolling my eyes so hard at the first two books this was actually quite the treat!
I started the series mostly out of curiosity; I’m a huge fan of sword and sorcery and it didn’t seem right that I’ve gone all these years without acquainting myself with one of the more beloved names in the genre: Thongor of Valkarth! And so far I haven’t missed much, with the first two books I probably could have played a sword and sorcery ad-lib game and come up with something way less trite and rote. The first two books were basically “this happened, then this happened, then this happened, then GASP! THAT happened” filled with one deux ex machina after another, all in boring loincloth glory. And so fucking dry; Carter may have been early on the scene but he was certainly no wordsmith. This isn’t new to me when it comes to him, whom I’m not new TO, I’ve been struggling for years trying to figure out what most readers even see in his stuff.
But! This third entry was quite good! It had more atmosphere than the first two books (not saying much); the descriptions were much more colorful and painted a better picture, whereas with the first two books every single detail was really up to you to fill in the empty spaces. This book introduced some actual originality (the Blue Nomads and certain material elements come to mind) and the plot, although typical, was interesting.
I THINK I’ll move on to book four.
I started the series mostly out of curiosity; I’m a huge fan of sword and sorcery and it didn’t seem right that I’ve gone all these years without acquainting myself with one of the more beloved names in the genre: Thongor of Valkarth! And so far I haven’t missed much, with the first two books I probably could have played a sword and sorcery ad-lib game and come up with something way less trite and rote. The first two books were basically “this happened, then this happened, then this happened, then GASP! THAT happened” filled with one deux ex machina after another, all in boring loincloth glory. And so fucking dry; Carter may have been early on the scene but he was certainly no wordsmith. This isn’t new to me when it comes to him, whom I’m not new TO, I’ve been struggling for years trying to figure out what most readers even see in his stuff.
But! This third entry was quite good! It had more atmosphere than the first two books (not saying much); the descriptions were much more colorful and painted a better picture, whereas with the first two books every single detail was really up to you to fill in the empty spaces. This book introduced some actual originality (the Blue Nomads and certain material elements come to mind) and the plot, although typical, was interesting.
I THINK I’ll move on to book four.
January 5, 2023
Thongor Against the Gods by Lin Carter
Once again Thongor fights against the forces of Darkness.
Now the plucky barbarian is ruling over three separate kingdoms. His plans to create an aerial fleet is going well. He even has a new child with his wife, Princess Sumia.
But Thongor's old enemies whom he overthrew in taking the cities have a plan. If they can kidnap the Princess and young prince, they can control the upstart barbarian king.
Thus begins the third book in the Thongor of Valkarth series, the fighter who accomplishes more before lunch than Conan and Aragorn combined. "Thongor Against the Gods" keeps with the traditions of Edgar Rice Burroughs' Barsoom series, complete with weird science, feats of daring do and nick-of-time escapes. In other words, pure escapism.
It is possible to read this book alone, but you will get more enjoyment reading the Thongor series in sequence.
I must admit this entry into the series does not have a smooth narrative flow. At one point Carter has approximately four plot threads going at once. He does tie them together, but it does give a feeling of whiplash between chapters.
Still, it is entertaining. I'm awarding extra points for Carter including a spell which has an effect eerily resembling the properties of a black and white television set.
Once again Thongor fights against the forces of Darkness.
Now the plucky barbarian is ruling over three separate kingdoms. His plans to create an aerial fleet is going well. He even has a new child with his wife, Princess Sumia.
But Thongor's old enemies whom he overthrew in taking the cities have a plan. If they can kidnap the Princess and young prince, they can control the upstart barbarian king.
Thus begins the third book in the Thongor of Valkarth series, the fighter who accomplishes more before lunch than Conan and Aragorn combined. "Thongor Against the Gods" keeps with the traditions of Edgar Rice Burroughs' Barsoom series, complete with weird science, feats of daring do and nick-of-time escapes. In other words, pure escapism.
It is possible to read this book alone, but you will get more enjoyment reading the Thongor series in sequence.
I must admit this entry into the series does not have a smooth narrative flow. At one point Carter has approximately four plot threads going at once. He does tie them together, but it does give a feeling of whiplash between chapters.
Still, it is entertaining. I'm awarding extra points for Carter including a spell which has an effect eerily resembling the properties of a black and white television set.
Read
November 26, 2022I've been wary of Carter's books as I imagined he was to Howard and co. what Derlith was to HPL. However, I found this book enjoyable, very imaginative and I will definitely find more of Carter's work in the future. Thongor is set in a Kull/Conan type "Lemuria" but with a sword-and-planet aircar & aliens type flavor to along with dinosaurs, wizardry etc.... Burroughs and Lovecraft-inflected Howard in a spicy, goofy stew.
The prose was pretty good (for purplish pulp), including a magisterial description of Thongor's bff's visit to the "The Wizard of Lemuria", almost at the level of Tolkien. However, the narrative suffered from frequent asides backtracking exposition... perhaps OK since I came in for epsiode 3 or whatever, but does it really matter what Thong, Sark of Sarkan, did to Prajan, Deodar of Tarkan 2 chapters ago? Do you have to remind me 3 times? Anyway, not a huge point.
The prose was pretty good (for purplish pulp), including a magisterial description of Thongor's bff's visit to the "The Wizard of Lemuria", almost at the level of Tolkien. However, the narrative suffered from frequent asides backtracking exposition... perhaps OK since I came in for epsiode 3 or whatever, but does it really matter what Thong, Sark of Sarkan, did to Prajan, Deodar of Tarkan 2 chapters ago? Do you have to remind me 3 times? Anyway, not a huge point.
March 20, 2021
Its not as good as Conan. Not even close
Lin Carter's verbose writing style slows down what should be a fast paced fantasy sword'n'sorcery story.
Lin Carter writes a number of set pieces to tell the story, so it 'feels' like a film which to me is a mistake.
There is way too much background mumbo-jumbo to do with gods and magic which slows the story. Lin Carter is not Tolkien. Tolkein is Tolkein. Leave it to the experts.
The book cover (it looks like a robot is burning) has nothing to do with the story.
Its just not that good.
Lin Carter's verbose writing style slows down what should be a fast paced fantasy sword'n'sorcery story.
Lin Carter writes a number of set pieces to tell the story, so it 'feels' like a film which to me is a mistake.
There is way too much background mumbo-jumbo to do with gods and magic which slows the story. Lin Carter is not Tolkien. Tolkein is Tolkein. Leave it to the experts.
The book cover (it looks like a robot is burning) has nothing to do with the story.
Its just not that good.
January 9, 2022
I am able to read these books in the spirit they were intended. They are fun and not exactly the most serious. I will say that the first half of this did feel uncharacteristically slow and there were several moments of descriptive repetition that felt They were there simply to flesh out the word count. That being said, I still had a load of fun reading It, I enjoyed the expansion of the world in this installment and the introduction of the blue giants. All in all, a good pile of cheesy fun!
November 1, 2025
This follows on from the first two books but seems to lack something. Too convoluted, too much focusing on other characters and the climaxes lack z satisfaction. It’s not bad and is entertaining but I’m not too bothered about reading more Thongor (there’s another three books) but will probably do so as I have them.
August 22, 2019
An oddly open ended conclusion to the Thongor Saga.
September 1, 2021
It was great, mindless Conan-type stuff.
November 25, 2023
The mighty and fearsome barbarian, Thongor of Valkarth, has become Grand Sark/king of Patanga. He has defeated and ousted the vile Chaos-worshipping orders of the Red and Yellow Druids, whose dark altars to their demonic deities have dripped with the blood of countless innocents. Now Thongor’s enemies including what’s left of the wicked druids, and the dethroned sarks of Shembis and Tsargol gather to hatch a plot to kidnap Thongor’s wife, Princess Sumia, and his newborn child, and to eventually destroy Thongor himself, as has been decreed by their otherworldly masters, the Lords of Chaos. As the Princess Sumia is kidnapped by a master assassin, Thongor departs in hot pursuit…..
Honestly, I found this book to suffer quite a bit from what I call “bridge book syndrome.” The pursuit of the princess and the adventures Thongor goes on are enjoyable, and the deeper exploration of the Jegga tribe of the Rmoahal giants was interesting, but I found the great battle that is raging on through most of the book between the combined sinister forces of Shembis and Tsargol and Thongor’s newly-conquered realm of Patanga to be dissatisfying overall and certainly less than epic. The ending I found somewhat of a let-down too. A lot of the novel seems to mainly be setting up for the fourth volume in the Thongor Series. So while this novel had its moments, and was certainly better than the preceding volume, it wasn’t nearly as good as the first book in the Thongor Series.
I give Thongor Against the Gods by Lin Carter a 3.5 out of 5.
Honestly, I found this book to suffer quite a bit from what I call “bridge book syndrome.” The pursuit of the princess and the adventures Thongor goes on are enjoyable, and the deeper exploration of the Jegga tribe of the Rmoahal giants was interesting, but I found the great battle that is raging on through most of the book between the combined sinister forces of Shembis and Tsargol and Thongor’s newly-conquered realm of Patanga to be dissatisfying overall and certainly less than epic. The ending I found somewhat of a let-down too. A lot of the novel seems to mainly be setting up for the fourth volume in the Thongor Series. So while this novel had its moments, and was certainly better than the preceding volume, it wasn’t nearly as good as the first book in the Thongor Series.
I give Thongor Against the Gods by Lin Carter a 3.5 out of 5.
June 30, 2025
Like so much of Lin Carter's work, it's fun and exuberant. Unabashedly an homage to Conan and John Carter of Mars, the book is filled with action. And that Frazetta cover!
September 6, 2025
It's not horrible but not good either. Pretty entertaining as the first 2, but way too many repeated passages.
Still think it could be made into a great fantasy tv-series
Still think it could be made into a great fantasy tv-series
June 26, 2023
I mean, it's an OK-to-pretty-good adventure story with a brawny fighting man, his also-refreshingly-adept-with-a-spear babymama, villainous sorcerers, Mesozoic beasts, axe battles, and so forth, and it all moves very quickly, and if you want some diverting action in between better books, this is the stuff. The plot is very much in the style of a Hollywood serial, the characters are borrowed from Robert E. Howard, the world owes a lot to Edgar Rice Burroughs, and there are some Jack Vance touches here and there--oh! And there are exclamation points! A lot!--and I, a total sucker for this kind of thing, enjoyed it all anyway.
January 17, 2014
Cheerful adventure about the mighty-thewed, second division Conan. This is entertaining on its own level and lovers of the otiose adjective will lap it up. You expect the deus ex machina trick in this sort of literature, but three times is at least two times too manner. Lin Carter has a problem with endings in general and this is no exception - the ending is far to short and of the "in one mighty leap he was free" variety. However it livene up a couple of long bus rides.
May 2, 2013
A sword and sorcery special which is written the tradition of conan.
November 23, 2014
Good old sword and sorcery
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews