The Devil in Iron

A fantasy adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows the legendary hero Conan as he faces dark sorcery and ancient foes on the mysterious island of Xapur. This work is set in Howard's rich Hyborian Age, a fictional prehistoric period filled with epic battles, strange creatures, and supernatural elements. The narrative begins with a fisherman unwittingly releasing the ancient god Khosatral Khel from his slumber by disturbing his crypt, which leads to chaos as the god reawakens and revives a long-lost city. Conan, now a leader among the Kozaks, is drawn into a plot centered around the captured Nemedian noblewoman, Octavia, and the treacherous lord Jehungir Agha. As Conan navigates the challenges presented by Khosatral Khel and Jehungir's schemes, he battles stunning creatures and dark sorcery to rescue Octavia and ultimately confronts the living iron god. The tale encapsulates themes of bravery, survival, and the clash between barbarism and civilization.