What are the most popular Sword and Sorcery authors?

Sword and Sorcery is a subgenre of fantasy characterized by its focus on action-packed adventures, heroic warriors, and the clash between magic and combat. Here are some of the most popular and influential sword and sorcery authors:

1. Robert E. Howard: Considered the creator of the sword and sorcery genre, Howard is best known for his iconic character Conan the Barbarian. His fast-paced stories featuring Conan have had a lasting impact on the genre.

2. Fritz Leiber: Leiber's "Fafhrd and the Gray Mouser" series follows the exploits of two rogues in the city of Lankhmar. Known for their swashbuckling adventures and witty banter, the series is a classic in the sword and sorcery genre.

3. Michael Moorcock: Moorcock's "Elric of Melniboné" series is a seminal work in sword and sorcery. It features the tragic anti-hero Elric, wielding the soul-devouring sword Stormbringer, in a dark and chaotic world.

4. C.L. Moore: Moore's character Jirel of Joiry is a pioneering figure in the sword and sorcery genre. Jirel is a fierce warrior and sorceress, embarking on dangerous quests and battling supernatural foes.

5. Karl Edward Wagner: Wagner's "Kane" series features the immortal warrior Kane, a complex and morally ambiguous figure. The series delves into dark themes and offers a unique twist on the sword and sorcery formula.

6. David Gemmell: Gemmell's novels, such as the "Drenai Saga" and the "Legend" series, are known for their gritty battles, larger-than-life heroes, and themes of honor and redemption. His works have a strong following in the sword and sorcery genre.

7. Brent Weeks: Weeks' "Night Angel Trilogy" showcases a blend of sword and sorcery elements with an emphasis on assassins, magic, and political intrigue. The series has gained popularity for its fast-paced storytelling and compelling characters.

8. Charles R. Saunders: Saunders' "Imaro" series follows the adventures of the eponymous warrior in a world inspired by African mythology. The series brought diversity to the sword and sorcery genre with its African-inspired setting and characters.

9. Andrzej Sapkowski: Although best known for his "Witcher" series, which has gained immense popularity through video games and a Netflix adaptation, Sapkowski's work contains elements of sword and sorcery, featuring the monster-hunting protagonist Geralt of Rivia.

10. Paul S. Kemp: Kemp's "Erevis Cale" series combines elements of sword and sorcery with urban fantasy, following the adventures of the conflicted assassin Erevis Cale in the Forgotten Realms setting.