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Courtney publication order #5
Power of the Sword (2)
A Courtney series adventure - Book 2 in The Burning Shore sequence
A POWERFUL FAMILY. A DEVASTATING WAR.
Centaine de Thiry Courtney has more than just survived the many challenges of her life. She thrived and became a successful businesswoman with two Shasa Courtney, the heir to the Courtney Mining and Finance Company, and Manfred de la Rey, Shasa's half-brother and secret child raised by his renegade father to be a hunter?of lions, and of men.
As Shasa and Manfred rise to power, however, the world becomes a much more dangerous place. The Great Depression takes hold and the winds of World War II reach Africa, forcing Centaine to make difficult decisions to ensure the security of her family.
Sweeping from the goldfields of South Africa to the backrooms of Afrikaaner power, from the thronged stadiums of the 1930s Olympics to the bloody war over Abyssinia, this masterwork of historical fiction is an unforgettable account of rivalry, revenge, and survival.
The Power of the Sword is the shocking second novel in The Burning Shore sequence of the Courtney family saga by Wilbur Smith, one of the bestselling and most beloved authors of the 20th century.
A POWERFUL FAMILY. A DEVASTATING WAR.
Centaine de Thiry Courtney has more than just survived the many challenges of her life. She thrived and became a successful businesswoman with two Shasa Courtney, the heir to the Courtney Mining and Finance Company, and Manfred de la Rey, Shasa's half-brother and secret child raised by his renegade father to be a hunter?of lions, and of men.
As Shasa and Manfred rise to power, however, the world becomes a much more dangerous place. The Great Depression takes hold and the winds of World War II reach Africa, forcing Centaine to make difficult decisions to ensure the security of her family.
Sweeping from the goldfields of South Africa to the backrooms of Afrikaaner power, from the thronged stadiums of the 1930s Olympics to the bloody war over Abyssinia, this masterwork of historical fiction is an unforgettable account of rivalry, revenge, and survival.
The Power of the Sword is the shocking second novel in The Burning Shore sequence of the Courtney family saga by Wilbur Smith, one of the bestselling and most beloved authors of the 20th century.
881 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1986
602 people are currently reading
2105 people want to read
About the author
Wilbur Smith
311 books4,377 followersWilbur Smith was a prolific and bestselling South African novelist renowned for his sweeping adventure stories set against the backdrop of Africa’s dramatic landscapes and turbulent history. Born in 1933 in what was then Northern Rhodesia (now Zambia), he grew up in South Africa, where his love for storytelling was nurtured by the rich environment and tales of African history. His early years were shaped by his experiences in the wilderness, which later became a defining element in his fiction.
After studying at Rhodes University, Smith initially worked as an accountant, but his true passion lay in writing. His breakthrough came in 1964 with When the Lion Feeds, a historical adventure novel that introduced the Courtney family saga. The book’s success led to a long-running series chronicling the exploits of multiple generations of the Courtney family, spanning centuries of African and world history. Alongside this, Smith wrote the Ballantyne series, focused on colonial Africa, and the Ancient Egypt series, which delved into historical fiction with a mythical touch.
Over his six-decade career, Smith authored more than 50 novels, selling over 140 million copies worldwide. His works were characterized by meticulous research, vivid descriptions of the African wilderness, and gripping action-packed narratives. Whether set in the colonial era, the world of pharaohs, or modern-day Africa, his books often explored themes of survival, war, power, and human ambition. He collaborated with co-authors in his later years to expand his literary universe, ensuring his stories continued to reach new audiences.
Beyond writing, Smith was an avid traveler and adventurer, drawing inspiration from his own experiences hunting, sailing, and exploring remote corners of Africa. While he was passionate about wildlife and conservation, some of his views—particularly regarding big game hunting—sparked debate. Nonetheless, his deep affection for Africa was evident in his writing, which celebrated both its beauty and its historical complexities.
Smith’s influence on adventure fiction remains significant, with his books continuing to captivate readers around the world. His legacy endures through his richly woven tales of exploration, conquest, and the enduring spirit of Africa.
After studying at Rhodes University, Smith initially worked as an accountant, but his true passion lay in writing. His breakthrough came in 1964 with When the Lion Feeds, a historical adventure novel that introduced the Courtney family saga. The book’s success led to a long-running series chronicling the exploits of multiple generations of the Courtney family, spanning centuries of African and world history. Alongside this, Smith wrote the Ballantyne series, focused on colonial Africa, and the Ancient Egypt series, which delved into historical fiction with a mythical touch.
Over his six-decade career, Smith authored more than 50 novels, selling over 140 million copies worldwide. His works were characterized by meticulous research, vivid descriptions of the African wilderness, and gripping action-packed narratives. Whether set in the colonial era, the world of pharaohs, or modern-day Africa, his books often explored themes of survival, war, power, and human ambition. He collaborated with co-authors in his later years to expand his literary universe, ensuring his stories continued to reach new audiences.
Beyond writing, Smith was an avid traveler and adventurer, drawing inspiration from his own experiences hunting, sailing, and exploring remote corners of Africa. While he was passionate about wildlife and conservation, some of his views—particularly regarding big game hunting—sparked debate. Nonetheless, his deep affection for Africa was evident in his writing, which celebrated both its beauty and its historical complexities.
Smith’s influence on adventure fiction remains significant, with his books continuing to captivate readers around the world. His legacy endures through his richly woven tales of exploration, conquest, and the enduring spirit of Africa.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 157 reviews
August 13, 2021
As always Wilbur Smith's books are very difficult to put down once started. This book was very difficult to quit, each and every page was exciting, and had to turn to next page to followup on the previous page. I'm in the process of reading the Courtney series.
Great tale set in post First World War South Africa. This is the 5th Courtney book. It's hard to say who the main character is as the tale switches between so man. There is even a mention of Nelson Mandela. The tale centers on the Hanai diamond mine and Centaine and her son Shasa. Once again Smith's knowledge of Africa brings the tale alive. His knowledge of its history in this turbulent period also makes for a very readable tale. At over 800 pages it is value for money and still a page-turner, mainly due to the easy to read narrative rather than an exciting plot. There are several characters to hate and the main one for me was Manfred De La Ray, although Smith also manages to create a little sadness for this character as well. Superb writing.
Great tale set in post First World War South Africa. This is the 5th Courtney book. It's hard to say who the main character is as the tale switches between so man. There is even a mention of Nelson Mandela. The tale centers on the Hanai diamond mine and Centaine and her son Shasa. Once again Smith's knowledge of Africa brings the tale alive. His knowledge of its history in this turbulent period also makes for a very readable tale. At over 800 pages it is value for money and still a page-turner, mainly due to the easy to read narrative rather than an exciting plot. There are several characters to hate and the main one for me was Manfred De La Ray, although Smith also manages to create a little sadness for this character as well. Superb writing.
April 19, 2019
Power Of The Sword continues the story of Centaine de Thiry Courtney which began in Smith's earlier book The Burning Shore. But here the story gradually becomes less about Centaine and more about the two young men who were born in the other book, as well as about the country of South Africa itself.
We see the first meeting between Shasa Courtney and Manfred De La Ray, and we watch them grow
into adulthood on opposite sides of the many dividing lines between people in this country. The story begins in the Great Depression and concludes in 1948 with the creation of Apartheid, and is very fast-moving and dramatic (and as usual with Smith, there are some quite violent episodes).
A great deal of history is woven into the story. We not only see the boys growing, we see the country itself growing.....but towards what? There are so many tensions here: between white and black, between English and Afrikaaner, between rich and poor to name a few. Throughout the book we can feel the explosiveness building, and I for one felt as much sympathy for the country and its troubles as I felt for the fictional characters.
I'm moving on now to the next title in the series, Rage so I will be back sometime with What Happens Next.
We see the first meeting between Shasa Courtney and Manfred De La Ray, and we watch them grow
into adulthood on opposite sides of the many dividing lines between people in this country. The story begins in the Great Depression and concludes in 1948 with the creation of Apartheid, and is very fast-moving and dramatic (and as usual with Smith, there are some quite violent episodes).
A great deal of history is woven into the story. We not only see the boys growing, we see the country itself growing.....but towards what? There are so many tensions here: between white and black, between English and Afrikaaner, between rich and poor to name a few. Throughout the book we can feel the explosiveness building, and I for one felt as much sympathy for the country and its troubles as I felt for the fictional characters.
I'm moving on now to the next title in the series, Rage so I will be back sometime with What Happens Next.
November 10, 2018
Εκπληκτικοί, ζωντανοί χαρακτήρες στήνουν ένα σκηνικό στην αφρικανική ήπειρο και περιπλέκουν τις ζωές τους με το κοινωνικό και πολιτικό γίγνεσθαι του τόπου. Η γραφή του συγγραφέα ζωντανή και διαχρονική. Το βιβλίο συστήνεται ανεπιφύλακτα!!
January 20, 2016
Building off the drama of the previous novel, Smith paves the way for another explosive tale in Power of the Sword. As readers will remember, Centaine de Thiry Courtney has two sons; Shasa, from her relationship with Michael Courtney, and Manfred De La Rey, from a tryst with Lothar while she remained lost in the African backcountry. When Lothar committed a dastardly act, Centaine disowned him and refused to acknowledge Manfred whatsoever. As the novel opens, both boys are teens, though neither knows of the other's existence as a blood relation. Shasa is living with his mother and enjoying the spoils of her diamond mine while Lothar has Manfred under his wing, working as a fisherman and running a canning company. This contrast in lifestyles is further reflected in the boys' upbringing, where Shasa rubs elbows with the British South African elite and attends top-notch schools while honing his polo skills. Manfred must fight to survive and becomes indoctrinated with the more deeply-rooted Boer sentiment of white South Africans. When Lothar plots to bring down Centaine's diamond mines with a significant heist, things go horribly wrong and he is sentenced to hard labour, leaving Manfred to live with his uncle, Tromp Bierman, a well known and much respected Minister of the Dutch Reformed Church. Bierman not only exacerbates the anti-British sentiment about South African rule, but also fosters a new passion for the sport of boxing. As time progresses, both Shasa and Manfred qualify to represent South Africa at the 1936 Berlin Olympics. Manfred is pulled into a political scheme, orchestrated by the Nazis, and he is sent back as a covert operative to bring down the South African government. Smith also sees fit to place Centaine in a love triangle of her own, which sees her trying to forge a place for herself while still dealing with her past indiscretions regarding Lothar and Manfred. Additionally, as Smith as made it a theme in all his books, the rise of discontent among the black South Africans emerges again with the creation of the African National Congress (ANC). A wonderful addition to the Courtney series, Smith treats readers to a stellar piece of work.
The continuation of the second Courtney series is full of juicy storylines and character development that makes this series well worth its invested time. Pulling on ideas and plots from not only the previous novel, but first series as well, the story is weighty as well as being complex. With a continued focus on the next generation of the Courtney clan, Smith pulls on historical events to pave the way towards much drama and character development. Keeping the story rich with plots, the reader has much on which to grasp as things develop slowly, but continually. Political change is on the horizon in South Africa and Smith paints a powerful picture of racism and segregation, which will soon stun the world with its cruel application. Perhaps one of the better novels in the larger collection to date, Smith builds towards an exciting next novel, without rushing anything and leaving the reader feeling cheated. The African subcontinent comes alive as Smith delves in so many directions, making his novels must-reads for the curious and history buff.
Kudos, Mr. Smith for a series that keeps getting better. I am blessed to have stumbled upon this collection and am learning so much in your narratives.
Like/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
The continuation of the second Courtney series is full of juicy storylines and character development that makes this series well worth its invested time. Pulling on ideas and plots from not only the previous novel, but first series as well, the story is weighty as well as being complex. With a continued focus on the next generation of the Courtney clan, Smith pulls on historical events to pave the way towards much drama and character development. Keeping the story rich with plots, the reader has much on which to grasp as things develop slowly, but continually. Political change is on the horizon in South Africa and Smith paints a powerful picture of racism and segregation, which will soon stun the world with its cruel application. Perhaps one of the better novels in the larger collection to date, Smith builds towards an exciting next novel, without rushing anything and leaving the reader feeling cheated. The African subcontinent comes alive as Smith delves in so many directions, making his novels must-reads for the curious and history buff.
Kudos, Mr. Smith for a series that keeps getting better. I am blessed to have stumbled upon this collection and am learning so much in your narratives.
Like/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
February 10, 2015
This book, which is set in southern Africa and Nazi Germany, is both very interesting and exciting. Very infrequently does its pace even begin to flag during its nearly 870 pages. It is un-put-down-able.
This is a story of hatred between two brothers and between two races: the Afrikaners and the English South Africans. It is also the story of rich versus poor, and black people versus white. Above all, it is a well-told adventure story set against the background of the flow of South African history between WW1 and the advent to power of a Nationalist majority parliament in South Africa in 1948. in addition, the novel is well spiced with romance.
The numerous characters are well-drawn and mostly credible. The author portrays their differing outlooks on life well and sympathetically. He interweaves historical facts almost seamlessly. It matters not whether you are actually interested in the history of Southern Africa, but this book will kindle an interest in the subject.
The book provides great entertainment. Whilst it might not be great 'literature', it makes for compelling reading. I felt as if I was watching a huge-scale epic movie (film) whilst reading it. It made me feel that Wilbur Smith is to novel writing what Bollywood is to movie-making, and I mean that in the very best sense.
This is a story of hatred between two brothers and between two races: the Afrikaners and the English South Africans. It is also the story of rich versus poor, and black people versus white. Above all, it is a well-told adventure story set against the background of the flow of South African history between WW1 and the advent to power of a Nationalist majority parliament in South Africa in 1948. in addition, the novel is well spiced with romance.
The numerous characters are well-drawn and mostly credible. The author portrays their differing outlooks on life well and sympathetically. He interweaves historical facts almost seamlessly. It matters not whether you are actually interested in the history of Southern Africa, but this book will kindle an interest in the subject.
The book provides great entertainment. Whilst it might not be great 'literature', it makes for compelling reading. I felt as if I was watching a huge-scale epic movie (film) whilst reading it. It made me feel that Wilbur Smith is to novel writing what Bollywood is to movie-making, and I mean that in the very best sense.
August 9, 2011
Wilbur Smith delivers again. This guy is shooting up to favorite author status for me. This is the fifth book of his I have read, and they all follow the same Courtney family of South Africa. At this point, we have entered the World War II era and the book ends just after the war.
Smith's books have it all. History, adventure, sex appeal, tough guys, and everything else you could ask for in a fun read. I understand the criticisms by people about Smith's take on African people and women, but I think the compaints are a bit over the top. Put into historical perspective, I think Smith nails it.
This particular story didn't seem to have a beginning and end like his previous stories. That would be my one complaint and the reason I only went with four stars. While I very much enjoyed the story, there was no true buildup to an ending. There were many ups and downs throughout the story, but I wish there had been more of a climax.
With that said, I am all about these books. I will be reading the next one for sure.
Smith's books have it all. History, adventure, sex appeal, tough guys, and everything else you could ask for in a fun read. I understand the criticisms by people about Smith's take on African people and women, but I think the compaints are a bit over the top. Put into historical perspective, I think Smith nails it.
This particular story didn't seem to have a beginning and end like his previous stories. That would be my one complaint and the reason I only went with four stars. While I very much enjoyed the story, there was no true buildup to an ending. There were many ups and downs throughout the story, but I wish there had been more of a climax.
With that said, I am all about these books. I will be reading the next one for sure.
April 27, 2025
I started reading this book almost five years ago but, after reading the first 100 pages, I decided to put it down because I thought it wasn't really for me. It gave me too much "What's better than this? Guys Bein' Dudes" vibes.
However, beside the fact that I REALLY struggle to dnf a book, those 100 pages really stayed with me during those years and every once in a while, I'd think about picking it up again. Because even though I wasn't that bif of a fan of what I had read, Smith really knows how to write and to capture the more adventure spirit of the characters.
Now that I've finished the book, I'd say those first 200 pages focused more on the "adventure" (if we want to call it like that) in the African desert were my favorite part of the story. The more political stuff wasn't boring, but it didn't really grab my attention as much as the author had managed to do before.
Still, I wasn't exactly bored (especially thanks to the excellent narration by Alessandro Brudoni), and I thought all the main characters were interesting to the point that I didn't mind when the author would pause one POV to switch to another. It was fun to see how the lives of all of them would intersicate with each other.
Also, I have to give it to him, despite the very "guys bein' dudes" vibes of the book, the author still wrote some really great characters, female too.
I'm not gonna keep on reading this series (or read the other books before, I had bought this only because I really liked the cover but without knowing it was part of a series) but I'm glad I gave at least this book a second chance. I definitely understand this author's success.
However, beside the fact that I REALLY struggle to dnf a book, those 100 pages really stayed with me during those years and every once in a while, I'd think about picking it up again. Because even though I wasn't that bif of a fan of what I had read, Smith really knows how to write and to capture the more adventure spirit of the characters.
Now that I've finished the book, I'd say those first 200 pages focused more on the "adventure" (if we want to call it like that) in the African desert were my favorite part of the story. The more political stuff wasn't boring, but it didn't really grab my attention as much as the author had managed to do before.
Still, I wasn't exactly bored (especially thanks to the excellent narration by Alessandro Brudoni), and I thought all the main characters were interesting to the point that I didn't mind when the author would pause one POV to switch to another. It was fun to see how the lives of all of them would intersicate with each other.
Also, I have to give it to him, despite the very "guys bein' dudes" vibes of the book, the author still wrote some really great characters, female too.
I'm not gonna keep on reading this series (or read the other books before, I had bought this only because I really liked the cover but without knowing it was part of a series) but I'm glad I gave at least this book a second chance. I definitely understand this author's success.
March 12, 2023
Am încheiat romanul cu numărul 5 al lui Wilbur Smith, Puterea Sabiei și Saga Familiei Courtney continuă. Și eu la fel. Îmi place cum scrie tipul. Se citește ușor, rapid, este interesant, are aventură, dragoste, răzbunare, politică, răsturnări de situație...îmi place.
December 29, 2023
This is book 2 in The Burning Shore series featuring the Courtneys, and focuses mainly on Centaine and her son Shasha and and there tumultuous relationship with Lothar and Manfred de la Rey, I found this to be a more than interesting read, it is also the first book by Wilbur Smith where the page count increased coming in at 807 pages, for me this really allowed more character and story development, even though there are over 800 pages I found myself soon lost in the story and the pages raced by. Wilbur Smith has that ability to take me on a journey with the characters, one that will be fuelled by suspensful action, love, hope, greed, despair, you run through a whole gamut of emotions
The book plays out against the Depression, the second world war and the creation of Apartheid, it is interesting to see the characters almost choosing which side to be on, it also shows to some degree the lengths that some will go to to hold on to power.
For me Wilbur Smith always creates characters who come at you fully formed, you get an instant feel for them, creating a mental picture in your head, throughout the course of the book you see the characters develop and grow, this for me is one of the main strengths of the books, it is the characters who allow the story to move things along and flow
As you would expect with such a long novel, there are plenty of ups and downs, with twists and moments of surprise, you also a change in Centaines relationship with the de la Reys
There is no one quite like Wilbur Smith in giving the reader a real sense of geography, landscape and topography, you live, feel and breathe the atmosphere.
There is a terrific blend of fact and fiction within this book, probably more so than the previous books, however, so seamless is the way the fiction is written at times your’e not sure where the line between the two is.
I also like the way the the author makes you care for the characters, while I found myself dispising Manfred de la Rey he is still an intriguing character, it will be interesting to see how things develop between himself and Shasha
Overall this is a book which I found hard to put down, the words flow so evotocively on the page and the writing drew me in, there is a deep sense of tension and intrigue in the book and your’e never quite sure which direction you will be taken off in
I really can’t recommend the Courtney series enough, there is depth to the quality of the writing played out against the vast sweeping landscape of Africa.
Power of the Sword is a fascinating read set against an interesting time in the history of South Africa, an immersive read, that draws you in
The book plays out against the Depression, the second world war and the creation of Apartheid, it is interesting to see the characters almost choosing which side to be on, it also shows to some degree the lengths that some will go to to hold on to power.
For me Wilbur Smith always creates characters who come at you fully formed, you get an instant feel for them, creating a mental picture in your head, throughout the course of the book you see the characters develop and grow, this for me is one of the main strengths of the books, it is the characters who allow the story to move things along and flow
As you would expect with such a long novel, there are plenty of ups and downs, with twists and moments of surprise, you also a change in Centaines relationship with the de la Reys
There is no one quite like Wilbur Smith in giving the reader a real sense of geography, landscape and topography, you live, feel and breathe the atmosphere.
There is a terrific blend of fact and fiction within this book, probably more so than the previous books, however, so seamless is the way the fiction is written at times your’e not sure where the line between the two is.
I also like the way the the author makes you care for the characters, while I found myself dispising Manfred de la Rey he is still an intriguing character, it will be interesting to see how things develop between himself and Shasha
Overall this is a book which I found hard to put down, the words flow so evotocively on the page and the writing drew me in, there is a deep sense of tension and intrigue in the book and your’e never quite sure which direction you will be taken off in
I really can’t recommend the Courtney series enough, there is depth to the quality of the writing played out against the vast sweeping landscape of Africa.
Power of the Sword is a fascinating read set against an interesting time in the history of South Africa, an immersive read, that draws you in
August 21, 2018
This is another gripping installment of the Courtney series that follows Centaine as she continues to build and then defend her wealth and power. It also follows the fortunes of her two sons, Shasa and Manfred, as they make successes of their own lives but also become embroiled in a love/hate relationship fuelled by the bitterness that still rests between Centaine and Lothar. Interwoven between these family feuds is the changing political landscape of South Africa as the African National Congress is established and Nazi Germany establishes and uses its power and influence across both continents. As ever the writing is vivid, bringing the events to life and keeping the story flowing from one moment to the next. I'm also finding the characters less irritating as they become more complex, particularly Centaine as she proves herself to be a particularly formidable woman.
December 3, 2014
This novel's setting is South Africa, from the early days of the Great Depression up to the beginning of Apartheid. I've long considered Wilbur Smith an armchair social anthropologist, and it may not be as evident in the characters of this book, but he certainly gave every last one of them some serious flaws...so much so that it's difficult for me to decide who the hero is. I guess I'd have to name Centaine Courtney as the heroine. She may be an adulterous, ruthless capitalist opportunist who destroys those who get in the way of her ambitions with no remorse, but the author bothers to show sympathetic traits in her perhaps more than any other character.
She seems like a choir girl compared to ganglord/political organizer Moses Gama; his half-brother Swart Hendrick; Centaine's bastard son Manfred, who grows up to become a fanatical Nazi; or even her ostensibly legitimate son, Shasa, who grows up to be a pampered, womanizing, shallow fop. I think my sympathies lied mostly with Lothar De La Rey, father of bastard Manfred.
At the very beginning of this tale, Lothar has just gambled all he has on a fishing business and through cunning and determination, has just brought in a haul that will pay all his debts and put him on firm footing to build an inheritance for Manfred. That's when Centaine shows up to utterly wreck him and his business. She has bought up his debt and now prefers to let his fish rot in the cargo holds than to let him can them and use the profits to get in the black. She has bad blood for her former lover and it's about to cause a vicious cycle.
Lothar decides that an eye for an eye is in order, and plans a robbery of Centaine's diamond mine. It's a clever and detailed plan, actually, with multiple safeguards...all rendered moot by fate, Centaine's tenacity, and, most of all, Lothar's fits of mercy. It goes downhill from there, and I must admit I skimmed a bit when I got too disgusted with the characters. Not just the deceit of Moses or his revolting behavior; or the corruption of the weak-minded Swart Hendrick; but also the gullibility and stupidity of the book-smart Manfred. And what he does to the girl who sincerely loves him. Of course my disgust is probably testament to the author's masterful orchestration of the elements of fiction.
Half brothers Shasa and Manfred are on a collision course that has ramifications well beyond the looming global conflict. When they do come full circle, their meeting was rather disappointing for my taste. Still, even at his worst (?), Wilbur Smith is a master storyteller, and despite my issues with this book, it's rich with South African history, geography and cultural insights. And for those who like family dynasty drama on an epic scale, this book is dripping with it.
She seems like a choir girl compared to ganglord/political organizer Moses Gama; his half-brother Swart Hendrick; Centaine's bastard son Manfred, who grows up to become a fanatical Nazi; or even her ostensibly legitimate son, Shasa, who grows up to be a pampered, womanizing, shallow fop. I think my sympathies lied mostly with Lothar De La Rey, father of bastard Manfred.
At the very beginning of this tale, Lothar has just gambled all he has on a fishing business and through cunning and determination, has just brought in a haul that will pay all his debts and put him on firm footing to build an inheritance for Manfred. That's when Centaine shows up to utterly wreck him and his business. She has bought up his debt and now prefers to let his fish rot in the cargo holds than to let him can them and use the profits to get in the black. She has bad blood for her former lover and it's about to cause a vicious cycle.
Lothar decides that an eye for an eye is in order, and plans a robbery of Centaine's diamond mine. It's a clever and detailed plan, actually, with multiple safeguards...all rendered moot by fate, Centaine's tenacity, and, most of all, Lothar's fits of mercy. It goes downhill from there, and I must admit I skimmed a bit when I got too disgusted with the characters. Not just the deceit of Moses or his revolting behavior; or the corruption of the weak-minded Swart Hendrick; but also the gullibility and stupidity of the book-smart Manfred. And what he does to the girl who sincerely loves him. Of course my disgust is probably testament to the author's masterful orchestration of the elements of fiction.
Half brothers Shasa and Manfred are on a collision course that has ramifications well beyond the looming global conflict. When they do come full circle, their meeting was rather disappointing for my taste. Still, even at his worst (?), Wilbur Smith is a master storyteller, and despite my issues with this book, it's rich with South African history, geography and cultural insights. And for those who like family dynasty drama on an epic scale, this book is dripping with it.
June 13, 2015
Another incredible adventure in South Africa before, during, and after WWII.
I loved this book, the story continues from
with the following generation of characters. It was great, as good as the first book. If you want adventure, drama, suspense, this is the book for you.
I loved this book, the story continues from
with the following generation of characters. It was great, as good as the first book. If you want adventure, drama, suspense, this is the book for you.April 10, 2022
A brief history of South Africa as seen thru the eyes
Of the wealthy whites and the multitude of African tribes
That serve in the Diamond and gold fields as essentially
Slaves . The powerful duel between 2 bastardized
Brothers and women they love for the country they try to possess. A powerful story which is well written
Which portrays the origin Afrikaans against the
Ruling Dutch allied with the British and the instigator
Nazi Germany
Of the wealthy whites and the multitude of African tribes
That serve in the Diamond and gold fields as essentially
Slaves . The powerful duel between 2 bastardized
Brothers and women they love for the country they try to possess. A powerful story which is well written
Which portrays the origin Afrikaans against the
Ruling Dutch allied with the British and the instigator
Nazi Germany
November 10, 2020
I get so frustrated reading a Wilbur Smith novel. The Power of the Sword didn't change this feeling.
The reason is two-fold:
1. I feel no sympathy for any of his characters, the Courtneys are all self-serving greedy prats. This particular novel has the De La Reys pitted against the Courtneys. They are all fowl humans. There is no character I want to cheer for.
2. Wilbur Smith has an annoying habit of inserting his characters into significant moments of history. Where they simply do not belong. One of his characters came third to Jesse Owens in the 100-meter race in the 1936 Berlin Olympics.
Because Wilbur Smith uses history as a plot device, you find yourself inadvertently believing his version of history. His character running the Olympics was so absurd I had to look it up, but I wonder how many other inaccuracies of history I now think are true.
It's not all bad, the opening scene of fishing trawlers pulling in a catch is wonderful.
The reason is two-fold:
1. I feel no sympathy for any of his characters, the Courtneys are all self-serving greedy prats. This particular novel has the De La Reys pitted against the Courtneys. They are all fowl humans. There is no character I want to cheer for.
2. Wilbur Smith has an annoying habit of inserting his characters into significant moments of history. Where they simply do not belong. One of his characters came third to Jesse Owens in the 100-meter race in the 1936 Berlin Olympics.
Because Wilbur Smith uses history as a plot device, you find yourself inadvertently believing his version of history. His character running the Olympics was so absurd I had to look it up, but I wonder how many other inaccuracies of history I now think are true.
It's not all bad, the opening scene of fishing trawlers pulling in a catch is wonderful.
April 2, 2020
The intricacies and intrigues of this book, the twists, the turns ... you only get the reinforcement that the world is ruled by the powerful, money.
Centaine de Thiry Courtney has not only survived, but thrived. A successful woman with two sons of her own: Shasa Courtney, the Courtney heir, and Manfred de la Rey, Shasa's half-brother, her secret child raised solely by his father. At the time of the Great Depression, Centaine must make difficult decisions to ensure the security of her family – decisions that will affect Manfred and his father, Lothar de la Rey, a man Centaine once loved.
But the world is changing, and conflicts greater than any the world has seen before are looming. Centaine and her children must face the upcoming war - where not all of them will be on the same side. . .
Centaine de Thiry Courtney has not only survived, but thrived. A successful woman with two sons of her own: Shasa Courtney, the Courtney heir, and Manfred de la Rey, Shasa's half-brother, her secret child raised solely by his father. At the time of the Great Depression, Centaine must make difficult decisions to ensure the security of her family – decisions that will affect Manfred and his father, Lothar de la Rey, a man Centaine once loved.
But the world is changing, and conflicts greater than any the world has seen before are looming. Centaine and her children must face the upcoming war - where not all of them will be on the same side. . .
February 20, 2009
Wilbur Smith is a true master of adventure fiction, but this installment in the Courtney family saga is a disappointment. After a strong opening with the big, beautifully-crafted action scenes that are typical of Smith's work, the book descends into a plodding soap opera that eventually fizzles out. Power of the Sword contrasts poorly with The Burning Shore, the previous book in the series, where Smith was on his game from the start to (almost) finish.
September 29, 2015
I am sad the book has come to an end I have enjoyed reading this so much. Through out the book the story is told from various different perspectives and crafted into an amazing page turner . All the main characters are very well portrayed you get to know them really well by the end of the book. The book also contains very accurate facts about the history leading up to world war two and just after it , I have been googling loads and learnt a lot.
April 4, 2015
Wilbur Smith's book is a powerful and mermerizing story of South Africa. In reading the book, one feels transported to that incredible land with its wildlife and amazing history. The twists and turns of the plot lead where you would never expect, eventually giving one the feeling of being there as the South African government takes form. This book was hard to put down.
March 27, 2014
I found this book to be pretty amazing and fascinating. It really played with the idea of grey areas and sometimes I really wasn't sure who I should have been rooting for. If you'd rather a clear cut good vs. evil then this book isn't for you. I was however, unaware when I picked this book up that is was part of a series and I just hope I enjoy the others as much as I enjoyed this one.
June 15, 2014
History series
If Smith could just write action and avoid dialogue I would like his books more (maybe). A continuation of the Courtney saga getting us up to the end of the second world war and goes through the Olympic games. Villains are bad, heroes are good but does no one realize the blacks are actually human as well?
No Canadian references
If Smith could just write action and avoid dialogue I would like his books more (maybe). A continuation of the Courtney saga getting us up to the end of the second world war and goes through the Olympic games. Villains are bad, heroes are good but does no one realize the blacks are actually human as well?
No Canadian references
February 24, 2015
another excellent and spellbinding chapter in the saga of the Courtneys! just wish they were not so long because it really doesn't help get down my book mountain!!!!!!
April 10, 2023
The book is a mess. Its unfocused scatter-gun approach opens with the blood feud between Centaine Courtney and Lothar De La Rey boiling over into pure hatred and violence. The second half, then, focuses on their sons, Shasa, Centaine's bastard son through Michael Courtney, and Manfred, Centaine's bastard son through Lothar. Wilbur has a thing about bastardy, apparently. These aren't the first bastards in the family history. And there are more to come in this book.
But all, bastard or not, suffer from the same flaw in Sword. That is, they appear on the pages as mere cardboard cut-outs. Nobody grows or changes, with the exception of Manfred. Centaine talks and acts the same way at age 48 as she did as 17. Blaine Malcomess, her latest partner in adultery, goes through a mid life crisis without having anything to worry about other than where to cheat on his wife, Isabella, and how to work his way inexorably up the government food chain. Each person introduced in Sword is unlikable--except for the Bushmen. And Manfred is made to be such a bad guy--he turns Nazi agent--that I end up actually hoping he spoils everybody else's fun. And make no mistake, we are meant to sympathize with and like Centaine, Blaine, and Shasa, do-gooding plutocrats that they are/become. But no matter where you go, you're left with characters that gush/chatter/giggle like teenagers.
Otherwise almost 600 of the 871 pages could be considered "filler." Bringing us up to date on the last original Courtney, Garrick, before kicking him off to eternity, describing world and South African history in an encyclopedic fashion, and constantly giving us some of the most unreadable love/sex/romance passages imaginable. They are simply horrible. Wilbur Smith is superb at one thing, mostly. Writing exciting passages of chase and survival out in the rawness of nature. He also creates some passable scenes of action in sport, such as with polo and boxing. I don't know or care about the former, and the latter bores me. But Smith made them come alive in Sword. But the Harlequin Romance-like love stories (people moving their mouths over each other like the Salt Vampire in the original series of Star Trek) make for atrocious reading. And all just to birth more out of wedlock children and bastards.
But all, bastard or not, suffer from the same flaw in Sword. That is, they appear on the pages as mere cardboard cut-outs. Nobody grows or changes, with the exception of Manfred. Centaine talks and acts the same way at age 48 as she did as 17. Blaine Malcomess, her latest partner in adultery, goes through a mid life crisis without having anything to worry about other than where to cheat on his wife, Isabella, and how to work his way inexorably up the government food chain. Each person introduced in Sword is unlikable--except for the Bushmen. And Manfred is made to be such a bad guy--he turns Nazi agent--that I end up actually hoping he spoils everybody else's fun. And make no mistake, we are meant to sympathize with and like Centaine, Blaine, and Shasa, do-gooding plutocrats that they are/become. But no matter where you go, you're left with characters that gush/chatter/giggle like teenagers.
Otherwise almost 600 of the 871 pages could be considered "filler." Bringing us up to date on the last original Courtney, Garrick, before kicking him off to eternity, describing world and South African history in an encyclopedic fashion, and constantly giving us some of the most unreadable love/sex/romance passages imaginable. They are simply horrible. Wilbur Smith is superb at one thing, mostly. Writing exciting passages of chase and survival out in the rawness of nature. He also creates some passable scenes of action in sport, such as with polo and boxing. I don't know or care about the former, and the latter bores me. But Smith made them come alive in Sword. But the Harlequin Romance-like love stories (people moving their mouths over each other like the Salt Vampire in the original series of Star Trek) make for atrocious reading. And all just to birth more out of wedlock children and bastards.
April 5, 2023
It’s a decade later and Centaine de Thiry is now a very rich woman having claimed the H’ani diamond mine and practicing sound investment strategies: buy when everyone is selling, and sell when everyone is buying. These strategies put her once more in the path of Lothar de la Rey, the man who found her in the wilderness and returned her to her loved ones, and the father of her younger son, Manfred. Lothar has raised Manfred on his own and taught him to hate those not like himself. In the midst of the Great Depression, Lothar loses everything except Manfred, and wanting to repay Centaine for the pain she caused him, Lothar comes up with a scheme to rob the H’ani mine. In doing so, he fails to realize that Centaine is absolutely ruthless. She loves and hates with equal passion, and she refuses to give up, even when her life is threatened. Failure is simply not an option for her.
Shasa and Manfred inherited much of Centaine’s single-mindedness, though each is heaving impacted by his socioeconomic status. Shasa benefits from everything money can buy. Manfred, on the other hand, has a much humbler and rougher upbringing. Each is secure in the knowledge that he was born to rule. They meet several times during the course of the book as adversaries; both are unaware of the fact that they are brothers.
The story takes us through the end of WWII, so we get to see the Berlin Olympics in 1936, the Nazis and the communists stirring up trouble, S. Africa moving from British rule to the rise of the Afrikaner government, and the inception of Apartheid. We also see black Africans moving into politics within groups such as the African National Congress, which gives us a glimpse of a young Nelson Mandela. As always with this author, Africa is at the center, revealing itself to be an exciting place full of beauty and passion, violence and cruelty. 4.5
Shasa and Manfred inherited much of Centaine’s single-mindedness, though each is heaving impacted by his socioeconomic status. Shasa benefits from everything money can buy. Manfred, on the other hand, has a much humbler and rougher upbringing. Each is secure in the knowledge that he was born to rule. They meet several times during the course of the book as adversaries; both are unaware of the fact that they are brothers.
The story takes us through the end of WWII, so we get to see the Berlin Olympics in 1936, the Nazis and the communists stirring up trouble, S. Africa moving from British rule to the rise of the Afrikaner government, and the inception of Apartheid. We also see black Africans moving into politics within groups such as the African National Congress, which gives us a glimpse of a young Nelson Mandela. As always with this author, Africa is at the center, revealing itself to be an exciting place full of beauty and passion, violence and cruelty. 4.5
March 1, 2020
I’ve been reading WS novels since I was a lad: my father gave me a whole lot and I’ve been slowly reading through them. I used to love them, though wonder if it’s a sign I need and expect more from an author than just a “good story”?
PotS is a lonnng book, and demanded nearly two months of reading to finish. I’m thankful to put it to rest, and it’s likely as I didn’t find many of the characters, plot developments or general experiences very convincing or fulfilling. The characters just appeared so mundane; classic soft, emotional and embittered woman with classic tough, unshakable and hard men. Eye rolls and an occasional groan when the scenes unfurled without a welcome surprise, and rarely demanded much thought (seemingly) from either author or reader.
Next, how WS seemed to glorify terrible moments in history without clear benefits to the plot or overall impression: violence and subordination against blacks and women; glorifying the trophy hunting of animals ; brash and unashamed and frankly unnecessary mentions of power and money and opulence. I know these were (are?) all true and heavily related to the story in many parts of the world, yet the book was published in 1986. Surely we had come further than that by then? It didn’t seem like WS tried to favour goodness or taking any kind of moral high ground or even the simple art of contextualising things for the reader , or even examine the reasons behind these various things. Yet time and time again I found myself wishing the book to be over. Sorry WS, not a happy reader.
PotS is a lonnng book, and demanded nearly two months of reading to finish. I’m thankful to put it to rest, and it’s likely as I didn’t find many of the characters, plot developments or general experiences very convincing or fulfilling. The characters just appeared so mundane; classic soft, emotional and embittered woman with classic tough, unshakable and hard men. Eye rolls and an occasional groan when the scenes unfurled without a welcome surprise, and rarely demanded much thought (seemingly) from either author or reader.
Next, how WS seemed to glorify terrible moments in history without clear benefits to the plot or overall impression: violence and subordination against blacks and women; glorifying the trophy hunting of animals ; brash and unashamed and frankly unnecessary mentions of power and money and opulence. I know these were (are?) all true and heavily related to the story in many parts of the world, yet the book was published in 1986. Surely we had come further than that by then? It didn’t seem like WS tried to favour goodness or taking any kind of moral high ground or even the simple art of contextualising things for the reader , or even examine the reasons behind these various things. Yet time and time again I found myself wishing the book to be over. Sorry WS, not a happy reader.
January 19, 2021
Power of the Sword is the fifth book in the series about the Courtney family living in South Africa. This book starts off in the 1930s during the Great Depression and continues through World War II and ends just after the war finishes. Throughout the book explores the issues that South Africa experienced in that time frame, such as, going off of the gold standard for currency, the rise of fascism, the unrest of black South Africans, and of course World War Two.
All of these aspects are covered by the main characters and as this book is a dramatic historical fiction novel there is a lot of intrigue, and romance that they find themselves in. Some of it is fairly predictable once you get used to the author's writing style, you just know when he starts describing people that they are going to fall instantly in lust with each other, which then turns into love.
I found this book (and the series) interesting because I don't know a lot of the finer details of South African history, so reading about the events that shaped the country during the 1930s and 1940s was illuminating.
I would recommend this book (and the series) to anyone interested in historical fiction. You should start with the first book in the series, "When the Lion Feeds", to get a better understanding of the characters. One warning this book is quite a bit longer than the previous books in the series (880 pages for the paperback), don't let that detere you from a good read.
All of these aspects are covered by the main characters and as this book is a dramatic historical fiction novel there is a lot of intrigue, and romance that they find themselves in. Some of it is fairly predictable once you get used to the author's writing style, you just know when he starts describing people that they are going to fall instantly in lust with each other, which then turns into love.
I found this book (and the series) interesting because I don't know a lot of the finer details of South African history, so reading about the events that shaped the country during the 1930s and 1940s was illuminating.
I would recommend this book (and the series) to anyone interested in historical fiction. You should start with the first book in the series, "When the Lion Feeds", to get a better understanding of the characters. One warning this book is quite a bit longer than the previous books in the series (880 pages for the paperback), don't let that detere you from a good read.
October 17, 2023
This starts strongly, but really becomes turgid quickly. The plot of the book is so preposterous, and the characters are all so annoyingly awful that it becomes really difficult to read, especially the romantic parts.
What Wilbur Smith does manage really fantastically though is to set out a period of South African history, and the people who lived through it. Reading his account of the Berlin Olympics I actually had to look up whether one of his characters was real or not, he managed to insert him into the real history in such a convincing way. The political history of South Africa at this time is set out in a really accessible way, and the different reactions and responses from the different sections of society are explored.
The Courtney's and De La Rays are all completely awful people, ready to do anything to forward their own agendas. In saying that though there are moments where Smith manages to build some sympathy with Manfred De La Ray, even despite him being a Nazi assassin, we see how he was groomed by his background to become the person he does. Similarly with the awful Sasha Courtney, an entitled racist, but again a product of his time and upbringing.
Overall I ended up not really caring about the main characters at all though, merely finding them a distraction to the greater story of the social and political upheaval of South Africa at the time.
What Wilbur Smith does manage really fantastically though is to set out a period of South African history, and the people who lived through it. Reading his account of the Berlin Olympics I actually had to look up whether one of his characters was real or not, he managed to insert him into the real history in such a convincing way. The political history of South Africa at this time is set out in a really accessible way, and the different reactions and responses from the different sections of society are explored.
The Courtney's and De La Rays are all completely awful people, ready to do anything to forward their own agendas. In saying that though there are moments where Smith manages to build some sympathy with Manfred De La Ray, even despite him being a Nazi assassin, we see how he was groomed by his background to become the person he does. Similarly with the awful Sasha Courtney, an entitled racist, but again a product of his time and upbringing.
Overall I ended up not really caring about the main characters at all though, merely finding them a distraction to the greater story of the social and political upheaval of South Africa at the time.
February 14, 2018
The second book of Smith's second Courtney saga, which clocks in at five novels, and a sequel to THE BURNING SHORE. I liked parts of this book's predecessor but found it only really gripping here and there rather than throughout. The good news is that POWER OF THE SWORD is a real step up from what has come before, a typically lean and hard-edged thriller of a story that delights in revealing the taut and brutal history of 20th century South Africa.
The novel follows two separate characters through childhood to middle age. Sasha Courtney is the handsome, upstanding British hero, a fighter pilot like his father Michael before him; his half-brother Manfred De La Ray is the Afrikaan son of Lothar and a volatile racist. The narrative takes them through politics, crime, the rise of Nazi Germany, WW2, and finally back to politics for an inevitable climax. As ever, Smith's background research is exemplary and he brings early 20th century vistas and cities to life. A complex situation with multiple characters and parties is told in a simple, readable fashion, while old-fashioned romance and high adventure remain to the fore. As ever, I look forward to the next.
The novel follows two separate characters through childhood to middle age. Sasha Courtney is the handsome, upstanding British hero, a fighter pilot like his father Michael before him; his half-brother Manfred De La Ray is the Afrikaan son of Lothar and a volatile racist. The narrative takes them through politics, crime, the rise of Nazi Germany, WW2, and finally back to politics for an inevitable climax. As ever, Smith's background research is exemplary and he brings early 20th century vistas and cities to life. A complex situation with multiple characters and parties is told in a simple, readable fashion, while old-fashioned romance and high adventure remain to the fore. As ever, I look forward to the next.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 15, 2018
Book 5 of the Courtney series and the 2nd Book to feature Centaine de Thiry Courtney. The history of South Africa continues to be told through the history of the Courtney family. This book covers the Berlin Olympics and the Second World War and ends with the beginnings of apartheid. It also covers the beginnings of the African National Congress.
The first part of this book was really enjoyable and continued with the action and adventure style of the previous books. However after that I found the story laboured a bit, especially the part set in Berlin during the Olympics.
It descended into a typical soap opera. It could have been an episode of Dallas or Dynasty. Some of the scenarios were a little bit ridicules, the relationship between Centaine and Blaine for example. I was very disappointed with Centaine. The strong woman who made the Burning Shore so enjoyable had gone. In fact none of the characters stand out and in the end the story fizzled out.
The first part of this book was really enjoyable and continued with the action and adventure style of the previous books. However after that I found the story laboured a bit, especially the part set in Berlin during the Olympics.
It descended into a typical soap opera. It could have been an episode of Dallas or Dynasty. Some of the scenarios were a little bit ridicules, the relationship between Centaine and Blaine for example. I was very disappointed with Centaine. The strong woman who made the Burning Shore so enjoyable had gone. In fact none of the characters stand out and in the end the story fizzled out.
March 1, 2019
I am once again reading Wilbur Smith's books as inspiration to writing another novel. This amazing work puts it all together in telling the tale of two rival half brothers, Shasa Courtney and Manfred De La Rey as they grow up separately under the influence of their common mother for Shasa and a renegade father in the case of Manfred. During their teens, they meet as unintroduced tomcats who tangle and develop a lifelong hatred which grows as they compete at college, in Hitler's Olympics and are influenced by respectively great and or diabolical leaders to become rivals for the control of The Republic of South Africa. Both men grow to maturity in the wide open spaces of South Africa during World War Two, during which they support opposing sides. The flaring up of apartheid separates them further as does the rising African quest for liberation from white task-masters. You won't be disappointed in this specimen of editorial mastery.
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