C.L. Moore Books In Order

Publication Order of Baldy Books

Publication Order of Standalone Novels

Publication Order of Short Stories/Novellas

Publication Order of Graphic Novels

Publication Order of Collections

Publication Order of Anthologies

C.L. Moore was an American author of fantasy and science fiction books. She was one of the early pioneers in science fiction and fantasy. Her contributions opened doors for other female writers in these speculative fiction genres. In the course of her writing career, C.L. Moore won several awards. Some included the Fritz Leiber Award (1978) and Gandalf Grand Master Award (1981). Some of Moore’s awards were presented posthumously and include the Cordwainer Smith Rediscovery Award (2004) and the Retro Hugo Award in 2019.

Moore, often collaborating with her science fiction-writing husband Henry Kuttner, used various pen names, including Lewis Padgett, making it hard to attribute all her works accurately. Her pioneering contributions to the science fiction genre, especially as a female writer, were remarkable, though her use of the C.L. byline sometimes obscured her gender.

One of Moore’s notable books is Black God’s Kiss, published in 1982. It is a collection of stories, including the title story and its sequel, Black God’s Shadow. Other stories in the collection include Jirel Meets Magic, Hellsgarde, The Dark Land, and Quest of the Starstone. The latter was co-written by C.L. Moore’s husband, Henry Kuttner, and features Jirel teaming up with another of Moore’s characters, N.W. Smith.

The stories in the collection are firmly rooted in the traditional swords-and-sorcery genre. While the prose may exhibit characteristics typical of pulp fiction from the era, such as elaborate adjectives and repeated references to Jirel’s distinctive physical features, C.L. Moore excels at creating rich and imaginative worlds. These stories conjure a dreamlike world, hellish settings, and ventures into other dimensions. All are described with vivid and detailed prose. At the time, there were no visual aids like Hollywood imagery to assist readers in envisioning these fantastical settings, making Moore’s descriptive abilities all the more impressive.

At the heart of Black God’s Kiss is the remarkable character of Jirel of Joiry. Her defining trait is her fiery passion, which guides her through life’s challenges. From encounters with dark deities and evil individuals to confrontations with time-traveling men and wizards. Her emotional essence is not limited to her character but is also reflected in her physical attributes. This includes her striking lion-like yellow eyes, vibrant red hair, and an undeniable aura of defiance and triumph after her victories. Jirel’s passionate and determined nature inspires not only her fellow characters but also readers to accompany her into battles and journeys, sometimes leading them to the brink of the unknown.

Despite her fiery persona, Jirel remains a complex and very human character. She possesses qualities such as courage, honor, naiveté, superstition, and the common desires of any individual. There are moments when she finds herself vulnerable and fearful, but her fiery determination allows her to gain the upper hand. Yet, like any person, she experiences fear and uncertainty, particularly when venturing into the bizarre realms she frequently explores.

The stories primarily feature the backdrop of France, where Jirel rules over Joiry. This offers a contextual frame for understanding her character. While there is mention of her cousin’s fortress and her interactions with allies and adversaries, little is revealed about her family or suitors. Jirel is portrayed as a devout Catholic who holds her faith in high regard, yet she is willing to compromise her soul or forgo the protection of the cross if it serves to defeat her enemies.

The core of these stories transports readers to otherworldly realms, straying far from the familiar backdrop of France. Jirel embarks on journeys to mystical dimensions, outlandish worlds, and fae-like domains. Each planet is inhabited by bizarre creatures and surreal landscapes. Jirel often travels alone within these realms, encountering beings that may superficially resemble humans but are far from ordinary. Moore’s storytelling introduces readers to a blend of fantasy, reality, and the supernatural, where the line between them blurs.

Reading Black God’s Kiss and the tales of Jirel is akin to experiencing the adventures of a female counterpart to the medieval character Conan, transported across surreal and Lovecraftian worlds. This blend of elements creates an enthralling and perilous narrative where Jirel relies on her senses and indomitable spirit to overcome challenges, even when the odds seem insurmountable. However, her fiery passion proves to be a double-edged sword, sometimes saving her while other times imperiling her and the things she cherishes, occasionally pushing her to the brink of death.

One of C.L. Moore’s most exceptional strengths is her ability to craft elaborate and striking imagery with her prose. Each story is composed with a lyrical and musical quality, creating a distinctive style that distinguishes her work in the genre and beyond. Her stories introduce readers to fantastical worlds inhabited by many creatures, beings, and unique landscapes, leaving a lasting impression of wonder and awe.

Judgment Night is a classic science fiction work published in 1952 by Catherine Moore, who frequently wrote under the pseudonym C.L. Moore.

The book revolves around a conflict between two intergalactic empires, with advanced ray guns and technology playing a significant role in the narrative. Notably, the story is distinctive for featuring a female lead character, which was relatively uncommon in the male-dominated science fiction of that era. The central character, Juille, is portrayed as an Amazon warrior-like daughter of an emperor who tolerates no affront from potential invaders. Despite the story’s Romeo and Juliet undertones, with Juille’s name resembling Juliet, there’s an intriguing complexity in her feelings as she grapples with her attraction to the prince of the opposing galaxy.

Judgment Night also incorporates dreamlike sequences that transport readers into alternate realities. Moore’s prose contributes to the surreal quality of these sequences, often leaving readers feeling afloat. Interestingly, the story introduces a concept similar to modern virtual reality. It presents a planetoid resembling a Disneyland-like environment where even royalty can retreat to immerse themselves in fantasies and escape reality’s pressures.

Judgment Night occasionally blurs the line between science fiction and fantasy. It features spiritual elements, hidden passages, ancient temples, voices resonating from the jungle, and palace intrigue. These elements contribute to the story’s rich and imaginative world, making it a notable work in the science fiction genre, particularly for its era.