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Ancient Egypt #8
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Per oltre cinquant’anni la valle del Nilo non ha conosciuto altro che guerra e distruzione per mano degli Hyksos, un popolo assetato di sangue giunto dal lontano Oriente. La situazione è disperata: a frenare l’avanzata del nemico rimane solo un manipolo di coraggiosi ribelli capitanati da Taita, potente mago e consigliere del faraone, l’unico convinto che esista ancora una speranza.
Piay, che gli è stato affidato dai genitori quando aveva solo cinque anni, è stato addestrato per diventare un prode guerriero e una spia senza rivali. Ed è proprio a lui che Taita affida una pericolosa missione: spingersi a nord, attraverso le terre nemiche e oltre il grande mare, per cercare alleati che li aiutino a difendere l’Egitto. Sarà un viaggio durissimo e pericoloso, che lo metterà alla prova in modi che non avrebbe mai immaginato, ma Piay sa che il destino del Regno è nelle sue mani, ed è determinato a dare prova del proprio valore…
Antiche rivalità e intrighi, tradimenti e duelli, fughe rocambolesche e passione: in questo secondo romanzo della nuova serie ambientata nell’Antico Egitto storia e avventura si intrecciano in perfetto stile Wilbur Smith.
Piay, che gli è stato affidato dai genitori quando aveva solo cinque anni, è stato addestrato per diventare un prode guerriero e una spia senza rivali. Ed è proprio a lui che Taita affida una pericolosa missione: spingersi a nord, attraverso le terre nemiche e oltre il grande mare, per cercare alleati che li aiutino a difendere l’Egitto. Sarà un viaggio durissimo e pericoloso, che lo metterà alla prova in modi che non avrebbe mai immaginato, ma Piay sa che il destino del Regno è nelle sue mani, ed è determinato a dare prova del proprio valore…
Antiche rivalità e intrighi, tradimenti e duelli, fughe rocambolesche e passione: in questo secondo romanzo della nuova serie ambientata nell’Antico Egitto storia e avventura si intrecciano in perfetto stile Wilbur Smith.
480 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 18, 2022
678 people are currently reading
2311 people want to read
About the author
Wilbur Smith
320 books4,397 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 120 reviews
September 24, 2025
Joseph Campbell's The Hero's Journey can be used to explain the structure of this novels as Pinay goes on a quest to find a way to rid Egypt of the Hyksos barbarians that are destroying it. Pinay as an agent of Egypt goes to Sparta in seek of their military strength but he is rejected because they see no advantage in such an alliance. Our hero goes to the Oracle Of Delphi that gives him a riddle which sets him on a journey to find the answer to his Hyksos problem in the land of the elephants. The adversity that he faces makes him a better man as his mentor Taita predicted and he returns with elephants to save his people. The adventurer also has an enemy that is an avatar of the god of Chaos hopped up on the blue lotus that is in opposition to his god of order. The book was also a great adventure story that had our hero having to face the mentioned villiain with great action sequences that made it a page turner.
March 27, 2023
বইটা অনেক ভালো লাগলো। উইলবার স্মিথ প্রিয় লেখকদের একজন। অন্য বইগুলো দ্রুত পড়ার প্রয়াস থাকলেও উনার বইগুলো আস্তে-ধীরে পড়তে ভালো লাগে। সুদীর্ঘ যাত্রার পুরোটায় আনন্দ পেয়েছি পড়ে। প্রধান চরিত্র পিয়াই বেশ ইন্টারেস্টিং ছিল৷ শুরুতে তার চরিত্রটা একরকম, নিজের উপর ভয়াবহ আত্মবিশ্বাস এবং স্ব-গর্বে ভরপুর একজন মানুষ যিনি কারও পরামর্শ গ্রহণে অনিচ্ছুক এবং কাজের বেলায় তালগোল পাকিয়ে ফেলা যার নিত্যদিনের স্বভাব কিন্তু সময়ের সাথে সাথে সবথেকে পরিণয় চরিত্রে দেখা যায়, যার হাতেই নতুন করে মিশরের স্বাধীনতা আসে।
আমি বইটা অসীম পিয়াসের অনুবাদে পড়েছি, অনুবাদ দারুণ ছিল।
আমি বইটা অসীম পিয়াসের অনুবাদে পড়েছি, অনুবাদ দারুণ ছিল।
August 25, 2022
Taita has his hands full, as always, looking after the Pharaoh, and being the not-so-hidden power behind the throne. The on-going war against the barbarian Hyksos people is turning to desperate times now for the Egyptians. Piay has been under Taita’s tutelage since his early years, training as a spy, and it is now time for that investment to pay off. Piay, along with his servant and friend, Hannu leave on a dangerous mission to the north to find allies to help defend Egypt. Along the way they pick up new friends, including a Nubian slave girl named Myssa, as they travel in their quest.
As a long-time fan of the Taita books by Wilbur Smith, I was worried on two fronts for this one. Most obviously, this was not written by Wilbur Smith although he supposedly collaborated on it. Given his age, declining health, and ultimate passing, I’m not sure how much he may have had to do with this one. So, yes, I was worried. Secondly, this is not a Taita novel, per se. He’s in it but only a little at the beginning and a little at the end. This is Piay’s book. Would it live up to my lofty expectations for the series?
In a word…mostly. On it’s own, this is, indeed a fine novel. To be fair, this series isn’t called the “Taita” series. It’s the “Ancient Egypt” series. The second novel, The Seventh Scroll, for example isn’t really a Taita book either, and is about an archeological expedition taking place in contemporary times. So, novels that don’t feature Taita as the main character are certainly welcome in the series. It’s just that Taita is such a unique character in all historical fiction, that I have this urge to keep reading about him.
In all other respects, I really enjoyed this novel. Adventurous escapades abound, filled with exciting peril and narrow escapes. Piay makes for an excellent protagonist, partly because he is not perfect and has so much to learn. His growth arc over this story is magnificent to witness. The other characters are also good and the group’s interactions with one another and with the various cultures and personalities they meet along their journey is great fun. In fact, Myssa, the Nubian slave girl almost steals the show. The final third of the book brings all the revelations I’d hoped for in a Wilbur Smith novel.
Mark Chadbourn, listed as collaborator, has written historical fiction before, most notably the Hereward series featuring an Anglo-Saxon warrior. He’s also written a number of novels in the fantasy, science fiction, and horror genres, often under the pseudonym, James Wilde. Definitely an experienced author. Reportedly, it was due to his Pendragon novel receiving runner-up status in the annual adventure writing contest run by the Wilbur and Niso Smith Foundation that led to his first collaboration with Wilbur Smith on “New Kingdom”
So, in the end, this is a very nice addition to the series. I would like to see more with Piay and friends but if the next Mark Chadbourn novel goes a different direction, I will be on board for that as well.
Thanks to the author and publisher for a free Advanced Reading Copy e-book for review.
As a long-time fan of the Taita books by Wilbur Smith, I was worried on two fronts for this one. Most obviously, this was not written by Wilbur Smith although he supposedly collaborated on it. Given his age, declining health, and ultimate passing, I’m not sure how much he may have had to do with this one. So, yes, I was worried. Secondly, this is not a Taita novel, per se. He’s in it but only a little at the beginning and a little at the end. This is Piay’s book. Would it live up to my lofty expectations for the series?
In a word…mostly. On it’s own, this is, indeed a fine novel. To be fair, this series isn’t called the “Taita” series. It’s the “Ancient Egypt” series. The second novel, The Seventh Scroll, for example isn’t really a Taita book either, and is about an archeological expedition taking place in contemporary times. So, novels that don’t feature Taita as the main character are certainly welcome in the series. It’s just that Taita is such a unique character in all historical fiction, that I have this urge to keep reading about him.
In all other respects, I really enjoyed this novel. Adventurous escapades abound, filled with exciting peril and narrow escapes. Piay makes for an excellent protagonist, partly because he is not perfect and has so much to learn. His growth arc over this story is magnificent to witness. The other characters are also good and the group’s interactions with one another and with the various cultures and personalities they meet along their journey is great fun. In fact, Myssa, the Nubian slave girl almost steals the show. The final third of the book brings all the revelations I’d hoped for in a Wilbur Smith novel.
Mark Chadbourn, listed as collaborator, has written historical fiction before, most notably the Hereward series featuring an Anglo-Saxon warrior. He’s also written a number of novels in the fantasy, science fiction, and horror genres, often under the pseudonym, James Wilde. Definitely an experienced author. Reportedly, it was due to his Pendragon novel receiving runner-up status in the annual adventure writing contest run by the Wilbur and Niso Smith Foundation that led to his first collaboration with Wilbur Smith on “New Kingdom”
So, in the end, this is a very nice addition to the series. I would like to see more with Piay and friends but if the next Mark Chadbourn novel goes a different direction, I will be on board for that as well.
Thanks to the author and publisher for a free Advanced Reading Copy e-book for review.
June 1, 2022
It’s clear at the beginning of this story that Piay has inherited all of the arrogance of his master, Taita, but little of his intelligence. As Piay sets out on his quest, he has a lot to learn, and what better way to learn it than on an Odysseun adventure? His long-suffering assistant, Hannu has clearly lost hope of humility ever shaping his master’s character for the better, and so it’s not only Piay’s character we see grow through each challenge they face, but Hannu’s as well. His sarcasm and morbid sense of humour bring a lightness to this story and watching their relationship evolve is part of the pleasure of reading this book.
The pace is good throughout the book; no sooner do they reach one milestone when another looms on the horizon, and they pick up some interesting travelling companions along the way.
The one thing lacking for me was the underlying tension that I’ve grown used to from other Smith novels. There was no prolonged jeopardy of wits pitted against a master tactician, or sense of being up against time, which is strange, given that for a large part of their journey they were pursued by the Hyksos, and we were often reminded that Piay may already have been too late, not knowing whether Thebes had been taken in his absence.
Rather than a sprawling epic, for me this book read like a series of mini adventures, which is a different style to what I’m used to from Smith. Although this, along with the short chapters, helped with the feeling of pace, I can’t help but feel nostalgic for the huge, magnificent stories of Ballantynes and Courtneys, and the trials that Taita’s had to face in his long life.
Still, a very enjoyable story from a master story teller.
The pace is good throughout the book; no sooner do they reach one milestone when another looms on the horizon, and they pick up some interesting travelling companions along the way.
The one thing lacking for me was the underlying tension that I’ve grown used to from other Smith novels. There was no prolonged jeopardy of wits pitted against a master tactician, or sense of being up against time, which is strange, given that for a large part of their journey they were pursued by the Hyksos, and we were often reminded that Piay may already have been too late, not knowing whether Thebes had been taken in his absence.
Rather than a sprawling epic, for me this book read like a series of mini adventures, which is a different style to what I’m used to from Smith. Although this, along with the short chapters, helped with the feeling of pace, I can’t help but feel nostalgic for the huge, magnificent stories of Ballantynes and Courtneys, and the trials that Taita’s had to face in his long life.
Still, a very enjoyable story from a master story teller.
November 22, 2022
I won this book in a goodreads drawing.
A war novel with the unusual setting of the Hyskos invasion of Egypt. It starts out with a lot of promise, as a spy (more like a scout). While on a scouting mission, he frees a captive, and finds out Thebes is about to be invaded, but he also ends up getting almost all of his men killed.
His mentor sends him on a quest to go to other kingdoms to find allies to repel the invaders. It all settles down to the usual hero's journey we've all read before.
A humdrum plot, but a great setting.
A war novel with the unusual setting of the Hyskos invasion of Egypt. It starts out with a lot of promise, as a spy (more like a scout). While on a scouting mission, he frees a captive, and finds out Thebes is about to be invaded, but he also ends up getting almost all of his men killed.
His mentor sends him on a quest to go to other kingdoms to find allies to repel the invaders. It all settles down to the usual hero's journey we've all read before.
A humdrum plot, but a great setting.
January 13, 2023
Horribly predictable plot, Wilbur has always been one of my favourite authors and these books written in his name since he passed do his legacy a disservice. Completely lack substance and no character depth whatsoever, appears more like a cash grab using Wilbur Smiths brand.
June 23, 2023
Unfortuntely, I don't allow myself not to finish a book. This felt like a struggle for nearly the entire thing. It's written like the reader is expected to have the reading comprehensiom skills of a 6 year old. It makes me want to go back and raise the number of stars to the other boring book I read this year because at least that one had some mildly interesting characters and a little bit of tension. Titans of War was the worst writing I have read in a long, long time. Very poor.
I love an adventure book. This was not an adventure it was a series of events strung together... I was told Wilbur Smith was a great adventure writer, I love Ancient Egypt, the plot sounds great on paper... but the execution is so poor. I have read reviews and concluded it must be the co-author's contributions to finishing the book that I couldn't vibe with.
The characterisation was so bad. Piay started off on a clearly signposted journey of becoming a 'better man', then we were told how he thought of things and developed empathy and became 'a better man'.
Told... not shown. That is the biggest issue with this book.
For example, Piay's companion and best friend (the 'witty banter' between them is clunky, doesn't work and is on the worst end of MCU dialogue) Hannu almost dies several times. Instead of an emotional reaction shown through Piay's dialogue or actions, we are told Piay 'feels sad' and Piay worries 'because he does not want to lose his friend'. It's the same depth as a book for 6 year olds.
There's no subtext through the whole thing... none. You're explicitly told how all characters feel, but it doesn't translate into how they interact with each other or how the plot moves.
The struggle with finishing this book is that it is boring. It's so shockingly boring for how exciting the plot seems when you describe it. There is no heart to it, no emotional reaction to anything. The one female character is a slave who becomes a love interest, of course, and it's honestly lacking even the emotional depth of two Sims characters falling in love.
Its just awful. I only finished it so I could leave a rating. It started out at a 3 then a 2 then in the last third of the book everything became so clunky, boring and the characters so dull that I had no doubt this is a 1 star review.
I actually really dislike hating something someone has spent creative time on. It feels like a plot outline that's written in more detail than necessary but not actually developed into a book where characters have motivations, feelings, thoughts or heart... it's the most boring book I've read in a decade. Maybe longer.
Disappointing. I will try one of Wilbur Smith's older classics...
I love an adventure book. This was not an adventure it was a series of events strung together... I was told Wilbur Smith was a great adventure writer, I love Ancient Egypt, the plot sounds great on paper... but the execution is so poor. I have read reviews and concluded it must be the co-author's contributions to finishing the book that I couldn't vibe with.
The characterisation was so bad. Piay started off on a clearly signposted journey of becoming a 'better man', then we were told how he thought of things and developed empathy and became 'a better man'.
Told... not shown. That is the biggest issue with this book.
For example, Piay's companion and best friend (the 'witty banter' between them is clunky, doesn't work and is on the worst end of MCU dialogue) Hannu almost dies several times. Instead of an emotional reaction shown through Piay's dialogue or actions, we are told Piay 'feels sad' and Piay worries 'because he does not want to lose his friend'. It's the same depth as a book for 6 year olds.
There's no subtext through the whole thing... none. You're explicitly told how all characters feel, but it doesn't translate into how they interact with each other or how the plot moves.
The struggle with finishing this book is that it is boring. It's so shockingly boring for how exciting the plot seems when you describe it. There is no heart to it, no emotional reaction to anything. The one female character is a slave who becomes a love interest, of course, and it's honestly lacking even the emotional depth of two Sims characters falling in love.
Its just awful. I only finished it so I could leave a rating. It started out at a 3 then a 2 then in the last third of the book everything became so clunky, boring and the characters so dull that I had no doubt this is a 1 star review.
I actually really dislike hating something someone has spent creative time on. It feels like a plot outline that's written in more detail than necessary but not actually developed into a book where characters have motivations, feelings, thoughts or heart... it's the most boring book I've read in a decade. Maybe longer.
Disappointing. I will try one of Wilbur Smith's older classics...
July 18, 2023
3.25
Per oltre cinquant’anni la valle del Nilo non ha conosciuto altro che guerra e distruzione per mano degli Hyksos, un popolo assetato di sangue giunto dal lontano Oriente.
Piay, un giovane guerriero addestrato dal celebre Taita, è pronto a difendere e salvare la sua terra insieme al suo braccio destro.
Sarà proprio Taita a springere Paiy verso quella che sembra una missione su1cida: spingersi a nord, attraverso le terre nemiche e oltre il grande mare, per cercare alleati che li aiutino a difendere l’Egitto. Chiaramente, la missione è difficile ma solo un grande guerriero come Piay può portarla a termine.
Onestamente, le mie aspettative nei confronti di questo libro erano molto alte. Da amante dell'Antico Egitto e dell'avventura, questo sembrava il libro perfetto per me. Non è stato proprio così e le mie aspettative sono state deluse.
Inizialmente la storia mia aveva presa, era coinvolgente ma andando avanti, non sono riuscita ad empatizzare con i personaggi - letteralmente non mi interessava per niente della loro sorte - e dopo un po' la storia mi sembrava ridondante.
L'unico personaggio femminile del libro è un insieme di stereotipi, la tipica donna scritta da un uomo che non è molto realistica e non rende giustizia, secondo me, a quello che realmente poteva essere il personaggio.
Non è un libro che boccio, anzi, ma da uno scrittore così acclamato mi aspettavo di meglio.
Indubbiamente, ho intenzione di leggere altro di Wilbur Smith perché ha scritto molto romanzi che mi interessano non poco. Di certo, ora come ora, li leggerò con delle aspettative molto più basse e vedremo come andrà.
Per oltre cinquant’anni la valle del Nilo non ha conosciuto altro che guerra e distruzione per mano degli Hyksos, un popolo assetato di sangue giunto dal lontano Oriente.
Piay, un giovane guerriero addestrato dal celebre Taita, è pronto a difendere e salvare la sua terra insieme al suo braccio destro.
Sarà proprio Taita a springere Paiy verso quella che sembra una missione su1cida: spingersi a nord, attraverso le terre nemiche e oltre il grande mare, per cercare alleati che li aiutino a difendere l’Egitto. Chiaramente, la missione è difficile ma solo un grande guerriero come Piay può portarla a termine.
Onestamente, le mie aspettative nei confronti di questo libro erano molto alte. Da amante dell'Antico Egitto e dell'avventura, questo sembrava il libro perfetto per me. Non è stato proprio così e le mie aspettative sono state deluse.
Inizialmente la storia mia aveva presa, era coinvolgente ma andando avanti, non sono riuscita ad empatizzare con i personaggi - letteralmente non mi interessava per niente della loro sorte - e dopo un po' la storia mi sembrava ridondante.
L'unico personaggio femminile del libro è un insieme di stereotipi, la tipica donna scritta da un uomo che non è molto realistica e non rende giustizia, secondo me, a quello che realmente poteva essere il personaggio.
Non è un libro che boccio, anzi, ma da uno scrittore così acclamato mi aspettavo di meglio.
Indubbiamente, ho intenzione di leggere altro di Wilbur Smith perché ha scritto molto romanzi che mi interessano non poco. Di certo, ora come ora, li leggerò con delle aspettative molto più basse e vedremo come andrà.
October 13, 2022
I thought this was one of the worst books Wilbur Smith had written. It was childlike and boring I got to the end and obviously there will be a follow up but I won’t be reading it!!
September 14, 2022
In River God (Ancient Egypt #1) and The Seventh Scroll (Ancient Egypt #2) we have two of my favourite historical fiction books of all time, they were incredible and introduced me to Taita an intelligent slave to the Pharoah and someone who invents just about everything imaginable! I adored his personality despite being arrogant, he was a fascinating read and I couldn’t help imagine the endless possibilities.
Taita is back looking after the Pharoah but in this, the 8th book in the Egyptian series, we follow Piay and his friend Hannu’s adventure to find allies to help defend Egypt against the Hyksos. Things don’t go quite to plan as they meet a variety of characters along the way. Well-paced, the book is a great addition to the Ancient Egypt stable. I haven’t read any since The Seventh Scroll and this is my first book written by Mark Chadbourn and Wilbur Smith but I’ll definitely read the next book. Not as strong as the two I’ve mentioned but impressive and entertaining to read nonetheless. Recommended.
Taita is back looking after the Pharoah but in this, the 8th book in the Egyptian series, we follow Piay and his friend Hannu’s adventure to find allies to help defend Egypt against the Hyksos. Things don’t go quite to plan as they meet a variety of characters along the way. Well-paced, the book is a great addition to the Ancient Egypt stable. I haven’t read any since The Seventh Scroll and this is my first book written by Mark Chadbourn and Wilbur Smith but I’ll definitely read the next book. Not as strong as the two I’ve mentioned but impressive and entertaining to read nonetheless. Recommended.
November 9, 2022
This novel isn't great. I even wonder if it was rushed into production to capitalize on Smith's death! The plot pretends to be connected to others in the series. It even repeats some of the same plot points. But it is not integrated into the series very well. Don't get me wrong, it is entertaining for the most part. Although sometimes I couldn't decide if the writing was more restrained, or just lazy. I will say the characterization was good, even evincing moral development in its protagonists. But this wouldn't be the first or fourth or fifteenth Wilbur Smith book you should read.
February 6, 2023
Boring, predictable, and frankly, written on a level more suited to a juvenile audience.
July 26, 2025
Το υπό κρίση βιβλίο αποτελεί εγχειρίδιο για το ΠΩΣ ΝΑ ΜΗΝ ΓΡΑΨΕΙΣ ΕΝΑ ΒΙΒΛΙΟ
Ναι, είναι σκουπίδι. Μην κοιτάτε τη συνολική βαθμολογία του, κοιτάξτε με στα μάτια και μετά στα χείλη όπως αρθρώνω τις λέξεις: Ε Ι Ν Α Ι Α Π Ο Λ Υ Τ Ο Σ Κ Ο Υ Π Ι Δ Ι
Για να βρίσκεστε εδώ και να διαβάζετε αυτή την κριτική, κατά πάσα πιθανότητα έχετε γνωρίσει τη σάγκα του Wilbur Smith με τον τετραπέρατο ευνούχο Τάιτα (που κάποια στιγμή του ξαναφυτρώνουν @ρχίδια, αλλά η σειρά έχει ήδη παρακμάσει τότε) και τις εξαιρετικές του περιπέτειες την εποχή της κατάληψης της Αιγύπτου από τους Υξώς (1782 – 1570 π.Κ.Ε.) και ξέρετε τι να περιμένετε από πλευράς ιστορικού πλαισίου και ίσως και χαρακτήρων.
Αυτό όμως που ΔΕΝ περιμένετε είναι ένατόσο ΦΤΗΝΟ, άθλιο, κακογραμμένο, υποτιμητικό για τη νοημοσύνη του αναγνώστη ξέρασμα βιβλίο που δε σέβεται καν τη σειρά της οποίας αποτελεί μέρος, το οποίο εκδίδεται μόνο και μόνο επειδή έχει το όνομα του Χουίλπουρ Ζμιθ στο εξώφυλλο. Ειλικρινά, αν πήγαινε κάποιος με αυτό το χειρόγραφο σε εκδότη, πρώτα θα του ρίχνανε δύο χαστούκια του μάλακα να έρθει στα ίσα, μετά λίγο νερό στο πρόσωπο να ξυπνήσει εντελώς και στο τέλος θα του έκαναν δώρο μια παγκόσμια ιστορία, ή ένα χαρτάκι με τη διεύθυνση γουικιπίντια ντοτ οργκ για να δει ότι ΤΗΝ ΕΠΟΧΗ ΤΩΝ ΥΞΩΣ ΔΕΝ ΥΠΗΡΧΕ ΣΤΡΑΤΟΚΡΑΤΙΚΟ ΚΑΘΕΣΤΩΣ ΛΑΚΕΔΑΙΜΟΝΙΩΝ ΠΟΥ ΒΑΣΑΝΙΖΑΝ ΚΑΙ ΔΟΛΟΦΟΝΟΥΣΑΝ ΕΙΛΩΤΕΣ ΣΤΗ ΣΠΑΡΤΗ αλλά ένας Μυκηναϊκός πολιτισμός για τον οποίο δεν ξέρουμε όσα θα θέλαμε, αλλά σίγουρα ξέρουμε ότι δεν είχε ΑΙΓΥΠΤΙΟ ΒΑΣΙΛΙΑ πολιτογραφημένο ΖΜΠΑΡΤΝΤΙΑΤΗ, και δεν πήγε με πλοία στην Αίγυπτο να βοηθήσει Αιγύπτιους ΚΑΒΑΛΑ ΣΕ ΕΛΕΦΑΝΤΕΣ (φακαμώ το κριστό μου) να διώξουν τους Υξώς (αντίθετα, πήγαν Αθηναίοι τον 5ο πΧ. αιώνα, όταν η Αίγυπτος ήταν περσική Σατραπεία). Συγγνώμη για τα «γαλλικά» μου, αλλά το βιβλίο με ενόχλησε πολύ.
Η πλοκή; Τυπική γουιλμπουρσμιθιανή πλοκή με μειωτήρα στροφών ως προς την ποιότητα. Ένα καλομαθημένο τσογλάνι στέλνεται από τον Τάιτα να σώσει την Αίγυπτο. Πάει πρώτα στη Σπάρτη, μετά στο μαντείο των Δελφών και μετά στην Αφρική να βρει ουλίφανζ (ελέφαντες). Στο δρόμο γνωρίζει τη φιλία, την αγάπη και την εκτίμηση των συντρόφων του, την προδοσία και όλα τα κλασικά κλισέ, ενώ αποκτάει και ένα «τανάσιμο εκτρό» με τον οποίο μένει να παίξει ξύλο στο τέλος. Κάθε σελίδα διαδέχεται την προγούμενη στο ίδιο… μοτίβο αδιαφορίας ως προς τι μέλλεται να συμβεί, οι χαρακτήρες είναι πιο χάρτινοι και από οριγκάμι σε κινέζικο εστιατόριο (και πολύ λιγότερο περίπλοκοι), η πλοκή βλακώδης (με κεφαλαίο… W) και οι αναχρονισμοί και τα λάθη κάτι παραπάνω από ενοχλητικά.
Γενικός βαθμός χαρακτηρισμός: Αίσχος, ντροπή, κρίμα τα δέντρα, σταματήστε να αρμέγετε τον πεθαμένο και να βάζετε το όνομά του στο ξώφυλλο, είναι προσβολή νεκρού.
Ναι, είναι σκουπίδι. Μην κοιτάτε τη συνολική βαθμολογία του, κοιτάξτε με στα μάτια και μετά στα χείλη όπως αρθρώνω τις λέξεις: Ε Ι Ν Α Ι Α Π Ο Λ Υ Τ Ο Σ Κ Ο Υ Π Ι Δ Ι
Για να βρίσκεστε εδώ και να διαβάζετε αυτή την κριτική, κατά πάσα πιθανότητα έχετε γνωρίσει τη σάγκα του Wilbur Smith με τον τετραπέρατο ευνούχο Τάιτα (που κάποια στιγμή του ξαναφυτρώνουν @ρχίδια, αλλά η σειρά έχει ήδη παρακμάσει τότε) και τις εξαιρετικές του περιπέτειες την εποχή της κατάληψης της Αιγύπτου από τους Υξώς (1782 – 1570 π.Κ.Ε.) και ξέρετε τι να περιμένετε από πλευράς ιστορικού πλαισίου και ίσως και χαρακτήρων.
Αυτό όμως που ΔΕΝ περιμένετε είναι ένα
Η πλοκή; Τυπική γουιλμπουρσμιθιανή πλοκή με μειωτήρα στροφών ως προς την ποιότητα. Ένα καλομαθημένο τσογλάνι στέλνεται από τον Τάιτα να σώσει την Αίγυπτο. Πάει πρώτα στη Σπάρτη, μετά στο μαντείο των Δελφών και μετά στην Αφρική να βρει ουλίφανζ (ελέφαντες). Στο δρόμο γνωρίζει τη φιλία, την αγάπη και την εκτίμηση των συντρόφων του, την προδοσία και όλα τα κλασικά κλισέ, ενώ αποκτάει και ένα «τανάσιμο εκτρό» με τον οποίο μένει να παίξει ξύλο στο τέλος. Κάθε σελίδα διαδέχεται την προγούμενη στο ίδιο… μοτίβο αδιαφορίας ως προς τι μέλλεται να συμβεί, οι χαρακτήρες είναι πιο χάρτινοι και από οριγκάμι σε κινέζικο εστιατόριο (και πολύ λιγότερο περίπλοκοι), η πλοκή βλακώδης (με κεφαλαίο… W) και οι αναχρονισμοί και τα λάθη κάτι παραπάνω από ενοχλητικά.
Γενικός βαθμός χαρακτηρισμός: Αίσχος, ντροπή, κρίμα τα δέντρα, σταματήστε να αρμέγετε τον πεθαμένο και να βάζετε το όνομά του στο ξώφυλλο, είναι προσβολή νεκρού.
Read
November 15, 2022“Life was filled with lessons, his master Taita said, and he has taken this one to heart.”
Piay, one of the greatest spies in Egypt, plunges into an action-packed mission to prove his worth to the great Taita. He needs to find allies to help defend the glorious Egypt against Hyksos and his barbarian followers. We follow him and his friend and servant, Hannu, on a daunting mission to the north where they face many obstacles - physically and emotionally - as well as meet new people and the cutest cat called Bast. Bast is my all-time favourite Egyptian goddess, so this was such a great addition!
“‘A desperate man can achieve great things,’ his master pressed in a quiet voice. ‘A man with nothing to lose will walk farther, climb higher, risk everything - including his own life - to find the prize that will bring him redemption. And you have nothing to lose, Piay. If you fail this task, do not return. There will be no place for you here. Indeed, there may be nothing for you to return to.’”
Even though Titans of War is the eight book in Wilbur Smith’s Ancient Egypt series and I have basic knowledge on Egyptian mythology, this was a relatively easy book to read and digest. If I didn’t know any better, I would have thought that this was a standalone novel. It is clear to see why Wilbur Smith has become a household name, and why he excelled in Egyptian historical fiction. Co-written by Mark Chadbourn, these two authors teaming up, has ensured a book filled to the brim by epic storytelling.
Titans of War was an epic historical adventure novel with headstrong characters, amusing dialogues, absorbing fight scenes and courageous expeditions. This high stakes fantasy explores the themes of redemption of man-kind against the intervention of gods quite well. My favourite character was the lionhearted Myssa - a very perceptive and determined woman whose thinking was ahead of her time. That, and she loves cats. While I do think that some of the language used in the novel might be sensitive to some readers, I believe that it coincides with the era that the story takes place in. Who needs a time machine when we are blessed with these great tales and descriptions of Ancient Egypt?
“A man cannot learn who he truly is until he has suffered. You are an uninformed thing, balancing on the brink of greatness, wavering on the edge of an abyss of failure. The door to glory or the door to destruction.”
Piay, one of the greatest spies in Egypt, plunges into an action-packed mission to prove his worth to the great Taita. He needs to find allies to help defend the glorious Egypt against Hyksos and his barbarian followers. We follow him and his friend and servant, Hannu, on a daunting mission to the north where they face many obstacles - physically and emotionally - as well as meet new people and the cutest cat called Bast. Bast is my all-time favourite Egyptian goddess, so this was such a great addition!
“‘A desperate man can achieve great things,’ his master pressed in a quiet voice. ‘A man with nothing to lose will walk farther, climb higher, risk everything - including his own life - to find the prize that will bring him redemption. And you have nothing to lose, Piay. If you fail this task, do not return. There will be no place for you here. Indeed, there may be nothing for you to return to.’”
Even though Titans of War is the eight book in Wilbur Smith’s Ancient Egypt series and I have basic knowledge on Egyptian mythology, this was a relatively easy book to read and digest. If I didn’t know any better, I would have thought that this was a standalone novel. It is clear to see why Wilbur Smith has become a household name, and why he excelled in Egyptian historical fiction. Co-written by Mark Chadbourn, these two authors teaming up, has ensured a book filled to the brim by epic storytelling.
Titans of War was an epic historical adventure novel with headstrong characters, amusing dialogues, absorbing fight scenes and courageous expeditions. This high stakes fantasy explores the themes of redemption of man-kind against the intervention of gods quite well. My favourite character was the lionhearted Myssa - a very perceptive and determined woman whose thinking was ahead of her time. That, and she loves cats. While I do think that some of the language used in the novel might be sensitive to some readers, I believe that it coincides with the era that the story takes place in. Who needs a time machine when we are blessed with these great tales and descriptions of Ancient Egypt?
“A man cannot learn who he truly is until he has suffered. You are an uninformed thing, balancing on the brink of greatness, wavering on the edge of an abyss of failure. The door to glory or the door to destruction.”
October 15, 2022
So trashy…so ahistorical…and such a mad mixture of the occult and set-piece battles in “ancient Egypt”. I jumped from the second book in the series to what is apparently the eighth and felt like I’d missed nothing. Ideal if you’re looking for something light to read while looking after a newborn baby.
August 2, 2022
A exciting story from the Egyptian Saga that I really enjoyed and found hard to put down.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bonnier Books UK for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bonnier Books UK for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
January 18, 2024
Titans of War started off great but got worse as the story progressed. It felt like a predictable superhero story with loads of plot armour. Right as one of the protagonists was in the jaws of defeat, something miraculous would happen time and time again. Disappointing read with great imagery being the positive takeaway.
June 18, 2024
Not my favourite but not the worst either! Different from my normal type of read that’s for sure.
August 27, 2024
Overall it is a great story however that being said it is very brutal and the descriptions are graphic this is not for the faint of heart.
The love that Piay & Myssa have for each other is cute it is as if they are made for one another.
I would recommend it for anyone that is looking for a good historical fiction read.
The love that Piay & Myssa have for each other is cute it is as if they are made for one another.
I would recommend it for anyone that is looking for a good historical fiction read.
May 2, 2022
This is the second book in the series that started with 'The New Kingdom' and Mark Chadbourn as co-author, and the eighth in the Ancient Egypt series as a whole.
Piay and his assistant, Hannu, are the main characters who travel to Sparta to ask for help in ridding Egypt of the Hyksos invaders. Things don't go quite to plan though and they meet some very unsavoury characters along the way. Some are not what they first appear to be.
I was a little concerned when reading the previous book, 'The New Kingdom' that 'the spark' I found in other Wilbur Smith books had been missing (I only gave it four stars). I needn't have worried with this second work. This was a wee cracker of an adventure, full of action, revenge, horror, respect, deceit, blood and slaughter... and many other deeper things like friendship, love, and trust. (God, I'm welling up again!) I found it to be a very emotional, but easy, read with strong characters and beautifully choreographed fight scenes.
I'm really looking forward to reading book number nine. Well done, Mark Chadbourn for returning the hitherto missing spark of Mr Smith's writing, and for bringing the emotional feel of the Egypt series back to me.
I chose to read an ARC copy of this work, which I voluntarily and honestly reviewed. All opinions are my own. My thanks to the publisher and NetGalley.
Piay and his assistant, Hannu, are the main characters who travel to Sparta to ask for help in ridding Egypt of the Hyksos invaders. Things don't go quite to plan though and they meet some very unsavoury characters along the way. Some are not what they first appear to be.
I was a little concerned when reading the previous book, 'The New Kingdom' that 'the spark' I found in other Wilbur Smith books had been missing (I only gave it four stars). I needn't have worried with this second work. This was a wee cracker of an adventure, full of action, revenge, horror, respect, deceit, blood and slaughter... and many other deeper things like friendship, love, and trust. (God, I'm welling up again!) I found it to be a very emotional, but easy, read with strong characters and beautifully choreographed fight scenes.
I'm really looking forward to reading book number nine. Well done, Mark Chadbourn for returning the hitherto missing spark of Mr Smith's writing, and for bringing the emotional feel of the Egypt series back to me.
I chose to read an ARC copy of this work, which I voluntarily and honestly reviewed. All opinions are my own. My thanks to the publisher and NetGalley.
December 9, 2022
Oggi sono qui per parlarvi di un'altra bellissima opera arrivata nelle nostre librerie.
Come sapete sono una grande amante del genere, quindi potevo mai farmelo scappare?
Assolutamente no.
È la prima volta che leggo un'opera di questo autore. Ho sentito parlare benissimo dei suoi libri e fortunatamente non sono rimasta delusa.
L'ambientazione egiziana è sempre stata tra le mie preferite e ritrovarmi quindi catapultata in questo mondo popolato da piramidi e deserto, è stato emozionante.
La nostra storia vede protagonista una guerra che va avanti da anni.
Gli Hyksos sono un pericolo costante e per tentare di fermare la situazione, il faraone affida a Taita, il suo mago e consigliere di corte, di guidare i suoi soldati. Tra loro, Piay sarà quello che dovrà andare a cercare alleati per difendere l'Egitto.
I personaggi devo dire che sono stati molto realistici. Nonostante il libro in molti punti presenti una pesantezza nella narrativa, sono riuscita ad entrare all'interno della storia si da subito, trovando a immaginare, a volte, persino le scene come fossero un film.
Mi spiace non aver letto prima opere di Smith, perché sono sicura che mi sarebbero piaciute anche quelle precedenti.
Come sapete sono una grande amante del genere, quindi potevo mai farmelo scappare?
Assolutamente no.
È la prima volta che leggo un'opera di questo autore. Ho sentito parlare benissimo dei suoi libri e fortunatamente non sono rimasta delusa.
L'ambientazione egiziana è sempre stata tra le mie preferite e ritrovarmi quindi catapultata in questo mondo popolato da piramidi e deserto, è stato emozionante.
La nostra storia vede protagonista una guerra che va avanti da anni.
Gli Hyksos sono un pericolo costante e per tentare di fermare la situazione, il faraone affida a Taita, il suo mago e consigliere di corte, di guidare i suoi soldati. Tra loro, Piay sarà quello che dovrà andare a cercare alleati per difendere l'Egitto.
I personaggi devo dire che sono stati molto realistici. Nonostante il libro in molti punti presenti una pesantezza nella narrativa, sono riuscita ad entrare all'interno della storia si da subito, trovando a immaginare, a volte, persino le scene come fossero un film.
Mi spiace non aver letto prima opere di Smith, perché sono sicura che mi sarebbero piaciute anche quelle precedenti.
September 27, 2022
Sorry not a fan of these new books that Wilbur has written in partnership with Mark Chadbourne. The new books just aren't as gripping. A disappointing read.
January 13, 2023
What we have here is a Wilbur Smith book that wasn't written by Wilbur Smith since he passed away over a year ago. In a practice that is becoming all too commonplace in the publishing industry, someone else is now listed as a co-author with the contributions of the deceased being slim to perhaps none. Perhaps the late Mr. Smith left an outline, or even partial manuscript of this and other books as indicated in a postscript called "The Story Continues....." but it appears there are no more 100% written by Wilbur Smith books, just collaborations, if that. All of which makes you wonder, should a series continue? Well, yes, if the late Mr. Smith had any ideas written down etc. But, if he didn't have any input or anything written down, the time may have come to finish a series, crediting the new author and letting things rest.
This is all a long way to say - this isn't a book written by Mr. Smith. The writing style is not exactly the same and a long-time reader of Wilbur Smith's books will recognize that difference. But, it does continue the series and sets the reader up for at least one more novel, if not more before hopefully ending it.
This is another in the continuing adventures of Piay, the protege of Taita, a character introduced a number of years ago. Piay is, in effect, the James Bond of ancient Egypt - a super-spy. It seems the Hyksos have invaded Egypt and something needs to be done to get rid of them so that Egypt can once again regain its ancient glory. For over 400 pages, we follow Piay's adventures as he tries to enlist other kingdoms to aid him in his quest as he travels around the ancient Middle East on one adventure after another, some of which seem a bit far-fetched, others of which seem more realistic. To say more would be going into spoiler territory and we don't want that!
This is for the die-hard Wilbur Smith fan or the person who started the original ancient Egyptian series years ago and was pleased to see it return a few years ago. And if you are a Smith fan, just remember - the late Mr. Smith was not the sole author of this book.
This is all a long way to say - this isn't a book written by Mr. Smith. The writing style is not exactly the same and a long-time reader of Wilbur Smith's books will recognize that difference. But, it does continue the series and sets the reader up for at least one more novel, if not more before hopefully ending it.
This is another in the continuing adventures of Piay, the protege of Taita, a character introduced a number of years ago. Piay is, in effect, the James Bond of ancient Egypt - a super-spy. It seems the Hyksos have invaded Egypt and something needs to be done to get rid of them so that Egypt can once again regain its ancient glory. For over 400 pages, we follow Piay's adventures as he tries to enlist other kingdoms to aid him in his quest as he travels around the ancient Middle East on one adventure after another, some of which seem a bit far-fetched, others of which seem more realistic. To say more would be going into spoiler territory and we don't want that!
This is for the die-hard Wilbur Smith fan or the person who started the original ancient Egyptian series years ago and was pleased to see it return a few years ago. And if you are a Smith fan, just remember - the late Mr. Smith was not the sole author of this book.
September 17, 2022
When Wilbur Smith some years ago announced that he would be placing greater reliance on co-authors due to high demand coupled with less energy flowing from his advanced age, criticism was abundant. From his collaboration with Giles Kristian with "Golden Lion" through to that with Imogen Robertson in "King of Kings", it however became clear that the essence of the novels remained true and so did the writing style. Similarly, and when the revival of the Ancient Egypt series was pushed to the front by Smith's 2020 ten-book deal with Bonnier Books, Smith turned to Mark Chadborn to co-author the "New Kingdom" series. Chadborn, being a writer of historical fiction, first co-authored "The New Kingdom", more or less a "spin-off" from the Taita themed "Ancient Egypt" books. With "Titans of War", an unrelated "spin-off" is created, though definitely closer to the Taita themed novels. The storyline albeit focusing exclusively on the perilous adventure of Piay (Taita's pupil) follows a similar line of adventure through adversity to that which Taita has travelled through some five novels. As in 'The New Kingdom" the pace feels slightly off, and the novel is somewhat more of a telling of a causal line of incidents, though to a much lower degree. It's a truer reflection of the heart of the old Taita novels and the blend of character development and storytelling reflects this well. The story has the, now expected, array of twists and turns which often culminates in deus ex magina moments and presents an adventure in the fashion of the Taita novels and of course "King Solomon's Mines"; one of Smith's great influences. Though not equal to some of the earlier works, such as "River God", it is a vast improvement on "The New Kingdom" and Chadborn has clearly shown his prowess and abilities to step into very big shoes. 3.5 / 5'
November 19, 2023
5 Stars
Titans of War is the eighth book in the Ancient Egypt series by Wilbur Smith.
Wilbur Smith books were a familiar fixture in our household when I was growing up. As I grew older and went looking for more ‘interesting’ things to read, Mr. Smith was amongst the first ‘adult’ reads that I gravitated to. I read everything he had written up to that point, and then through the years I kept up with each new release.
Wilbur Smith is one of my mother’s favourite authors, so reading this was a bit of a bittersweet experience for me as my mother passed away over a year ago, and missed the chance to read this book- which she would have loved- as have I. So, this one's for you, mum!
The Ancient Egypt series and is a fantastic, action-packed, sometimes brutal and quite graphic, adventure that has the author’s special twist on Ancient Egyptian history. There is war, romance, gritty scenes, drama, some comedy… and so much more. I have always been fascinated by Ancient Egypt, so this book/series completely enthralled me.
Mr. Smith has a great knack for writing a great suspenseful and exciting read, so if you are a history buff, love everything Ancient Egyptian, want a book that will hold your interest and that you can immerse yourself in- then this may be the book/series for you!
Titans of War is the eighth book in the Ancient Egypt series by Wilbur Smith.
Wilbur Smith books were a familiar fixture in our household when I was growing up. As I grew older and went looking for more ‘interesting’ things to read, Mr. Smith was amongst the first ‘adult’ reads that I gravitated to. I read everything he had written up to that point, and then through the years I kept up with each new release.
Wilbur Smith is one of my mother’s favourite authors, so reading this was a bit of a bittersweet experience for me as my mother passed away over a year ago, and missed the chance to read this book- which she would have loved- as have I. So, this one's for you, mum!
The Ancient Egypt series and is a fantastic, action-packed, sometimes brutal and quite graphic, adventure that has the author’s special twist on Ancient Egyptian history. There is war, romance, gritty scenes, drama, some comedy… and so much more. I have always been fascinated by Ancient Egypt, so this book/series completely enthralled me.
Mr. Smith has a great knack for writing a great suspenseful and exciting read, so if you are a history buff, love everything Ancient Egyptian, want a book that will hold your interest and that you can immerse yourself in- then this may be the book/series for you!
November 28, 2022
“Titans of War” is the 8th book in Wilbur Smit’s “Ancient Egypt” series. I’m probably falling into this series at a very late stage as I have read “River God” and “The Seventh Scroll” (the first two books in this series) several years ago. But, although I may be missing some of the full backstory of all the role-players, I didn’t find it difficult to get into this book. I have always been interested in Egyptology, so that may have contributed to the fact that I quickly got caught up in this book.
“Titans of War” will take you on an epic quest, packed with adventure, danger, travel and breath-taking fight sequences. It was a gripping read, fast paced and a real page-turner. An excellent and engaging plot with numerous twists and turns. The main protagonists are well-developed and multi-dimensional, and I was cheering for them all the way!
So, in short, you will enjoy this book if you appreciate:
Adventurous Quest
Absorbing fight scenes
Fast paced
Well plotted
Strong well-developed Characters
With thanks to Jonathan Ball Publishers for the opportunity to read this book.
“Titans of War” will take you on an epic quest, packed with adventure, danger, travel and breath-taking fight sequences. It was a gripping read, fast paced and a real page-turner. An excellent and engaging plot with numerous twists and turns. The main protagonists are well-developed and multi-dimensional, and I was cheering for them all the way!
So, in short, you will enjoy this book if you appreciate:
Adventurous Quest
Absorbing fight scenes
Fast paced
Well plotted
Strong well-developed Characters
With thanks to Jonathan Ball Publishers for the opportunity to read this book.
April 27, 2022
Titans of War is another cracking read from this author’s Egyptian sagas. From being entranced by River God many years ago this one is as good if not better.
The characters are brilliantly described with depth and humour. Tatia from the previous books takes a much smaller role here but his presence is still very much present.
Egypt has been invaded by the Hyksos and they have been in control for many years, only Thebes is under Egyptian control. Taita tasks Piay who he has trained from being a young boy to travel to Sparta and request the help of the Spartans to help rid Egypt of their invaders.
A self centred boastful man Piay takes on this task with his assistant Hannu. So starts a an adventure that will leave you breathless with the horrors and excitement these two encounter.
This book is page turning, jaw dropping and heart pounding. One of the best I’ve read this year. I wait the next with great anticipation.
My thanks to net galley and publisher for the opportunity to review this book honestly
The characters are brilliantly described with depth and humour. Tatia from the previous books takes a much smaller role here but his presence is still very much present.
Egypt has been invaded by the Hyksos and they have been in control for many years, only Thebes is under Egyptian control. Taita tasks Piay who he has trained from being a young boy to travel to Sparta and request the help of the Spartans to help rid Egypt of their invaders.
A self centred boastful man Piay takes on this task with his assistant Hannu. So starts a an adventure that will leave you breathless with the horrors and excitement these two encounter.
This book is page turning, jaw dropping and heart pounding. One of the best I’ve read this year. I wait the next with great anticipation.
My thanks to net galley and publisher for the opportunity to review this book honestly
September 1, 2022
For over fifty years Egypt has known nothing but war and devastation at the hands of the Hyksos, a bloodthirsty barbarian people from the distant east who continue to advance, crushing armies in their wake. Times are desperate, but throughout the conflict, a brave resistance fights on under the great Taita, a slave who has risen far beyond his ranks. Piay, entrusted into Taita's care by his parents at the age of just five, has been trained to become a great spy, unmatched by any other. Determined to prove his worth, he embarks on a dangerous mission to the lands in the north - to Mycenae and through the heart of Hyksos land and across the great sea - to find allies to help defend Egypt.
Another well written, page turner from the master storyteller. The pace never lags & I was drawn in from the start & held captive until the final page. A masterful read
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Another well written, page turner from the master storyteller. The pace never lags & I was drawn in from the start & held captive until the final page. A masterful read
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
November 27, 2022
Another adventure in Egypt with Taita! So happy to have the series back. This was a wonderful adventure quest in the best form of Wilbur Smith. Each chapter filled with action and movement.
This appears to be a prequel to the series that first started with River God. That is rather confusing to the timeline of the series as I had understood it. Not sure how the Hyxsos could be knocking on the 100 gates of Thebes in this book, while they also make a surprise invasion years later that forced older Taita to flee with the queen and young boy pharaoh past the Nile cataracts in the first book River God. Oh well not going to dwell on it.
While unrealistic — I do enjoy the world spanning journey that the author likes to take the reader. In ancient times a journey from Egypt to Sparta to Kush in central Africa and back to Egypt along the Nile would have taken maybe a lifetime rather then the 2 fruitful years covered in this story.
This appears to be a prequel to the series that first started with River God. That is rather confusing to the timeline of the series as I had understood it. Not sure how the Hyxsos could be knocking on the 100 gates of Thebes in this book, while they also make a surprise invasion years later that forced older Taita to flee with the queen and young boy pharaoh past the Nile cataracts in the first book River God. Oh well not going to dwell on it.
While unrealistic — I do enjoy the world spanning journey that the author likes to take the reader. In ancient times a journey from Egypt to Sparta to Kush in central Africa and back to Egypt along the Nile would have taken maybe a lifetime rather then the 2 fruitful years covered in this story.
December 16, 2025
Oplæser: Jonas Kriegbaum ****
OK oplæsning.
Endnu engang går turen tilbage til det gamle Egypten. Til dengang Taita kæmpede for sit fædreland. I denne roman, følger vi dog ikke Taita, men hans unge protegé Piay.
Piay er opvokset hos Taita - hans forældre kom og bad Taita om at tage ham til sig, og give ham den bedst mulige opdragelse. Piay er blevet en vældig selvtilfreds ung mand, der stoler fuldt og helt på sine egne evner. Gad vist hvor han har lært det???
Egypten er i vanskeligheder. Hyksos-folket har overtaget store dele af landet, og den Egyptiske hær har snart ikke flere kræfter tilbage. Taita vælger at sende Piay ud som udsending. Han skal se om han kan finde et land der vil hjælpe Egypten i den store nød.
Det bliver en lang og vanskelig rejse. Det viser sig, at man ikke kan stole på hvem som helst og ingen har mod på, at involvere sig i Egyptens krig. Men så trækker Piay et es op af ærmet.
En spændende fortælling, der dog lige savner lidt Taita-drys.
OK oplæsning.
Endnu engang går turen tilbage til det gamle Egypten. Til dengang Taita kæmpede for sit fædreland. I denne roman, følger vi dog ikke Taita, men hans unge protegé Piay.
Piay er opvokset hos Taita - hans forældre kom og bad Taita om at tage ham til sig, og give ham den bedst mulige opdragelse. Piay er blevet en vældig selvtilfreds ung mand, der stoler fuldt og helt på sine egne evner. Gad vist hvor han har lært det???
Egypten er i vanskeligheder. Hyksos-folket har overtaget store dele af landet, og den Egyptiske hær har snart ikke flere kræfter tilbage. Taita vælger at sende Piay ud som udsending. Han skal se om han kan finde et land der vil hjælpe Egypten i den store nød.
Det bliver en lang og vanskelig rejse. Det viser sig, at man ikke kan stole på hvem som helst og ingen har mod på, at involvere sig i Egyptens krig. Men så trækker Piay et es op af ærmet.
En spændende fortælling, der dog lige savner lidt Taita-drys.
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