Tuesday 1 November 2011

HISTORICAL FICTION REVIEW: Conqueror Series 4: Empire of Silver - Conn Iggulden

Release Date: 01/09/11

SYNOPSIS:

The fourth novel in the number one bestselling Conqueror series, continuing the life and adventures of the mighty Khan dynasty.

Genghis Khan is dead, but his legend and his legacy live on. His son Ogedai has built a white city on a great plain and made a capital for the new nation. Now the armies have gathered to see which of Genghis' sons has the strength to be khan. The Mongol empire has been at peace for two years, but whoever survives will face the formidable might of their great enemy, China’s Song dynasty.

The great leader Tsubodai sweeps into the west: through Russia, over the Carpathian mountains and into Hungary. The Templar knights have been broken and there is no king or army to stop him reaching France. But at the moment of Tsubodai's greatest triumph, as his furthest scouts reach the northern mountains of Italy, Tsubodai must make a decision that will change the course of history forever.


REVIEW:

It’s probably not a surprise that I’m a huge fan of Conn Iggulden and for me, he does for Historical Fiction what David Gemmell did for Fantasy which isn’t really a surprise as Conn was influenced by David when he was growing up. The writing is crisp, clean and full of adventure and when you add to this great combat sequences, beautifully researched historically and of course the authors own writing style, it’s a series that is not only fascinating but a series that is an absolute must read.

Add to this the fact that Conn continues the series after the death of the principle character (Genghis) during a time of upheaval as the throne is up for grabs, and it’s a story that for those less familiar with Eastern History, will grip them as they vie to see who shall triumph as well as how the rule will continue. Cracking stuff.

No comments: