3 h 33 minAudiobook2 minSummaryRead it, hear it, the 15-minute summary, and print and large print at costPaperback · 6 × 9 in · 87 pagesHardcover · 6 × 9 in · 87 pagesAbout this book
What if the shelter you find is a city that lives only for revenge?
Valeria refuses to live under anyone’s control. When Conan follows her into a remote wilderness, a huge creature forces them to fight for survival. Then they reach Xuchotl, an enclosed city whose halls and chambers promise shelter but hide dangers neither warrior understands.
In Robert E. Howard’s Red Nails, the rival Tecuhltli and Xotalanc devote themselves to a murderous feud. Techotl’s gratitude draws the outsiders into his people’s struggle, where their swords make them valuable allies. But Conan and Valeria have no inherited loyalty here. They want to stay alive and keep their freedom.
What you’ll discover
- A city consumed by revenge Enter dark passages and vast chambers where uneasy hospitality carries the threat of violence.
- Two fiercely independent warriors Follow Conan and Valeria as courage and suspicion guide them through a deadly unfamiliar world.
- Revenge made visible Discover the red nails that count fallen enemies and reveal a society consumed by hatred.
- Danger beyond the wilderness Feel the tension shift from a creature’s attack to deliberate human cruelty and sorcerous traps.
- Freedom against inherited hatred Explore the clash between warriors determined to remain free and people bound to mutual destruction.
Is it for you?
Readers who enjoy fierce sword fights, capable warrior partners, and sinister enclosed settings will appreciate this unusually dark Conan adventure.
What’s inside
The key ideas, in the 15-minute summary
Who’s who
- ConanA powerful wandering warrior whose instincts and fighting skill make him both useful and dangerous to the people of Xuchotl.
- ValeriaAn independent sword fighter who meets the city’s dangers with courage, suspicion, and a firm refusal to submit.
- TechotlAn inhabitant of Xuchotl whose gratitude to the newcomers brings them into his people’s deadly feud.
- XuchotlAn enclosed city where rival groups live among the remains of wealth while devoting themselves to mutual destruction.
- The red nailsThese markers count enemies killed and make the city’s devotion to revenge visible.
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- Large print paperback
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- Large print hardcover
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Language: English
From the 15-minute summary · Key idea 1 of 5
Valeria is a skilled fighter who refuses to live under another person’s control. Conan follows her into a remote wilderness, where an encounter with a huge, dangerous creature forces them to fight for survival. Beyond the forest lies a strange city. Its walls promise shelter, but the place offers neither the bustle nor the open streets they expect.
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The author
Robert E. Howard
1906–1936 · American fantasy writer
Robert E. Howard was an American author born in Peaster, Texas, in 1906. He lived much of his life in Cross Plains, Texas, where he died in 1936. He wrote fantasy, horror, adventure stories, and poetry. His stories featuring Conan appeared in the magazine Weird Tales during the 1930s.
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What is Red Nails about?
Red Nails follows Conan and Valeria into Xuchotl, an enclosed city divided by a long and brutal feud. Their arrival gives one side powerful allies, but also exposes them to concealed ambitions and dangers within the group that welcomes them.
Who is Valeria in Red Nails?
Valeria is a warrior associated with the Red Brotherhood, a pirate fellowship. She is an experienced fighter, not merely someone Conan must protect. Her independence, ability with a sword, and resistance to being controlled make her central to the story.
What do the red nails mean?
The red nails mark members of the enemy faction who have been killed. They give the feud a visible tally and show how deeply revenge shapes life in Xuchotl: each death becomes an achievement to preserve and celebrate.
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