The Napoleon Complex

Book of Thunder #2

by E.M. Davey

'Extraordinary... one of the most intelligent historical thrillers I've read in a long time.' Dean Crawford, bestselling author of Covenant

Reporter Jake Wosley has seen things he never thought possible. His life changed forever after discovering classified documents showing Churchill's curious obsession with the ancient Etruscan civilisation. Now he's hiding out in Thailand, trying to put the past behind him. But when a mysterious letter arrives containing cryptic references to Napoleon Bonaparte, Jake is drawn back in to a centuries-old conspiracy. 

The trail leads through the Middle East, Europe and Africa to a Victorian secret that could remake the world. Will Jake crack the Napoleon complex? And can he keep one step ahead of Washington and MI6 who want this ancient lore for their own devices? 

352 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 25, 2016

Reviews

[gillian · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is certainly not a stand alone novel, if you haven't already, read the first one before attempting this one. Absolutely loved these two books and this last and final instalment had me on the edge I couldn't put it down. Again there has been a massive amount of research done by the author and together with a fantastic story it is one I would like to see progress on to the big screen. I am a huge Dan Brown fan and in my opinion these two novels are up there at the same level if not more. He certainly knows how to draw the reader in and with the twists and turns keeps you immersed until the last page. I am looking forward to reading another novel by this author and plan to watch out for any future released from him.

[Tiina · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was a book written by someone very knowledgeable about history, and about Napoleonic history in particular. Combining this knowledge into a plot which involved practically super human people made this into a book that just was not very believable. There were also many, many main characters, so the beginning was difficult to follow.

[Greer Andjanetta · Rating 2 out of 5]

A jumbled, jerky story which is difficult to read and more difficult to understand. The author seems to have found a source of quotes by and about Napolean and has constructed a story around them. An admirable approach but while reading the book, it is not clear who the various characters are, what they are after or who are the good guys and who are not. Not a recommended read!

[Debbie Jolley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I won this book on one of the Goodreads Giveaway.

A great introduction to an author I hadn't come across before.
Loved the book - great fast-paced action/thriller. The only reason I knocked it down one star is I found all the historical quotes and references a little heavy going/hard to follow at times - I appreciate they were integral to the story line but I mentally switched off a few times. Otherwise I really gripping storyline - with a few plot twists, some of which in hindsight I should have cottoned on to earlier in the book.
One of those books you can't always tell who are the good and bad guys - are they chasing or protecting the main characters in the story...? I must admit that a few times I forgot who was British and who was American.

Will definitely keep an eye out for other books by this author

[Readsandeats · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this sequel to 'Foretold by Thunder'.

The characters were engaging and the situations were very believable. I found myself really enjoying the history element to this story and will go and learn more - once I have the time. E.M.Davey manages to make what maybe unbelieveable believeable and his portrayal of what may go on in political systems throughout the world fasinating.
I did find the way that people are used for supposed good means disturbing and from what we hear in the news it goes on.


I was pleased with the outcome of the book but am left with a question but maybe I am supposed to be. This book is best read in as few sittings as possible so as not to distract the reader, unfortunately I was unable to do so which I feel was a shame for me.

I would recommend this book to anyone.

[Anna Cookson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Exciting, pacy and enthralling, The Napoleon Complex takes you on a breathtaking journey all over the world and back in time. Expertly combining real historical documents with intriguing and sinister spectral powers... you'll start to question your own view of reality as the magic of the ancient Etruscan's seeps through the pages. I learnt a lot about history and culture whilst also being whisked along in a page-turning adventure. The plot is gripping and the prose is scintillating. Be warned... you'll never look at history in the same way again.

Make sure you also read the first in the series - Foretold By Thunder by E.M. Davey. It's equally beautifully written, with the same flare and attention to history and detail. Un-put-downable!

[Tarn Richardson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a sensational read. Expertly plotted, rigorously researched and deliciously pieced together, this is what every thriller should be. Taunt, engaging, inventive and fast. The mind boggles to think how much travel and exploration went into its planning. The author’s knowledge of his subject, countries and history is simply staggering. It’s a novel bursting with facts, but its brilliance is that it never feels laden or bogged down by them.

The prequel, Foretold by Thunder, was an outstanding book, but this is a significant step up from that. My book of the year.

[Angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought this was an excellent book. Full of detail and action. A real page turner whilst also being informative and giving much food for thought. I will definitely be looking for more books from this author