The magical worlds and fast action probably are the Conan tales' principal appeal. Red Nails has most of the qualities that have made the Conan stories popular. It features nonstop action, a dinosaurlike monster, a mysterious lost city, eerie hallways, slithery monsters from the catacombs, derring-do, and swordplay. The novella can transport its readers into a world of mystery and magic.

The Conan stories all feature exceptional imagery. Much of their appeal depends on the evocation of strange places and mysterious people. The city of Xuchotl and the Tlazitlans are strange and mysterious. The red nails of the title symbolize the dead enemies of Olmec and his faction. For each enemy slain, a copper nail is driven into an ebony column in the throne room. The nails are red like blood, and the column is black.

In a story that emphasizes action and adventure, an author will usually...