The Michael Moorcock Library Vol.1: Elric Of Melnibone

Before the comments section roasts this list, we know Elric appeared in a short story in the 60s. It was only in the 70s that the novel form would be published.Why it made the listElric is one of those characters that fantasy readers still single out as one of the best ever created. He has swagger. He's inclined to brooding. And he has enough self-doubt to keep him relatable. He's an intelligent character and Moorcock paid special attention to ensuring that the reader can discover this for themselves, without feeling like you're being beaten over the head with his cleverness. These characteristics work well as part of the pulp fiction feeling Moorcock has created in Elric of Melnibone.Other than it being a short and easy book to read, the first novel in the series also gives you just enough information to want to keep reading the series. That sounds obvious, but it's rare to find an author that can balance the detail of one story with hints and clues to the rest of the series – without telegraphing them or overdoing it the amount of information. Without giving too much away, you might find the ending of the first book frustrating – especially when you feel like you know Elric well – but it only makes you want to read the rest of the series.