Conan Saga #49

Earl Norem's painted cover sets the tone beautifully — a muscular, battle-hardened Conan stands triumphant atop a mound of fallen warriors, battle-axe in hand, while a jeweled woman crouches protectively at his feet and a massive skull looms through the mist behind them. This issue presents "Hawks Over Shem" as a full-length classic, with the interior brought to life by the formidable team of Roy Thomas, John Buscema, and inker Alfredo Alcala. For fans of Hyborian adventure, this 1991 Marvel magazine-format edition is a satisfying showcase of the era's finest sword-and-sorcery storytelling.