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Courtney publication order #22
Nemesis: A Novel of the French Revolution
A brand-new historical epic from the Master of Adventure, in which three strands of the Courtney family converge in a bloodthirsty bid for revenge.
Paris, 1794. Revolutionary fervour has erupted into the Reign of Terror. A young man, Paul Courtney, hides in a crowd watching as the condemned are brought to the guillotine. Among them is Constance Courtney, Paul's mother. As he watches her brutal execution, he knows he must avoid the same fate and fulfil his promise to her - to survive, no matter what. He joins Napoleon's army and is taken to Egypt, but with the world at war and traitors in every corner, just how far will Paul go to ensure his own survival?
Cape Town, 1806. Adam Courtney has spent his life in service to the navy and in the shadow of his father, the illustrious Admiral Robert Courtney. But when he returns home to Nativity Bay to find the homestead destroyed and the Courtney family murdered, Adam must accept his destiny and seek vengeance. Robert gives Adam the prized family heirloom, the Neptune sword, and makes his son swear on its blade that he will not rest until he has delivered justice. From Cape Town to Calcutta, on a quest for his family's honour, Adam discovers that the enemy he seeks may be closer to him than he realises . . .
Paris, 1794. Revolutionary fervour has erupted into the Reign of Terror. A young man, Paul Courtney, hides in a crowd watching as the condemned are brought to the guillotine. Among them is Constance Courtney, Paul's mother. As he watches her brutal execution, he knows he must avoid the same fate and fulfil his promise to her - to survive, no matter what. He joins Napoleon's army and is taken to Egypt, but with the world at war and traitors in every corner, just how far will Paul go to ensure his own survival?
Cape Town, 1806. Adam Courtney has spent his life in service to the navy and in the shadow of his father, the illustrious Admiral Robert Courtney. But when he returns home to Nativity Bay to find the homestead destroyed and the Courtney family murdered, Adam must accept his destiny and seek vengeance. Robert gives Adam the prized family heirloom, the Neptune sword, and makes his son swear on its blade that he will not rest until he has delivered justice. From Cape Town to Calcutta, on a quest for his family's honour, Adam discovers that the enemy he seeks may be closer to him than he realises . . .
480 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 20, 2023
537 people are currently reading
691 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 88 reviews
May 8, 2023
Average read, the depth of Wilbur Smith's romanticism is missing in these later novels.
May 7, 2023
Great reading, just about great adventures one of the best authors ever
September 28, 2023
Wilbur Smith is a true Master of his craft. Just wish, I could give more stars 🌟
July 27, 2023
Nemesis, the first book to come out after Wilbur Smith’s death, sounds so much like his last five books you wonder who’s been writing them all along, Wilbur Smith or Tom Harper. This franchise is alive and well – for now. At the end of the book is a confusing bunch of info about what books are coming next and which ghostwriter is going to be on which series; apparently there is a whole stable of them. So I predict the franchise will go downhill fast, much like Tom Clancy and Clive Cussler. This whole business reminds me of the publisher who mass-produced his story ideas – Tom Swift, Nancy Drew, The Bobbsey Twins – by hiring out quick writers who eventually destroyed the series. There are a hundred Nancy Drews, but the only good ones were written by Mildred Wirt. Anyway.
You can keep riding the wave with Nemesis. It’s everything you’ve learned to expect with Wilbur Smith, if you can stomach the constant, unrelenting violence. The world order was not pretty in 1807. I’ll stick with Tom Harper for a while, and see what happens.
You can keep riding the wave with Nemesis. It’s everything you’ve learned to expect with Wilbur Smith, if you can stomach the constant, unrelenting violence. The world order was not pretty in 1807. I’ll stick with Tom Harper for a while, and see what happens.
August 6, 2023
This book was very exciting and entertaining, but I just couldn’t get over how completely interchangeable and flat all the female characters were. Even the 8yo Paul “rescues” in the desert is of course obsessed with him, although she was still the most interesting female character in the story. She was totally right at the end when she told Paul off for thinking he had been the one to protect her, when in reality she was the only reason he was still alive. And it’s nice for Paul to go and avenge Mary’s death, but what about Abasi? She was literally shot right in front of him. I just found myself rolling my eyes a lot at this book. I probably will not rush out to read more books by this author, although I realize I’m coming into a series 20+ books in. But this one did not make me feel compelled to explore the Courtney dynasty from the beginning.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 11, 2024
Pretty violent
October 25, 2024
I really enjoyed this book 👍🏻 Great adventure story-telling!
June 22, 2025
I don’t usually like collaborations but this one is an exception. I read and loved all the Courtney books years ago and only just found this one. Thoroughly enjoyed the whole story.
October 31, 2023
Great nonstop historical adventure.
February 14, 2024
Wilbur Smith (1933 – 2021) hield liefhebbers van historische fictie decennialang in zijn greep. In zijn
leven verkocht hij meer dan 140 miljoen boeken in meer dan 30 talen. Zijn Courtney Series zijn razend populair en met het verschijnen van Aartsvijand (Originele titel Nemesis) werd het twintigste boek in de Courtney reeks een feit. Co-auteur Tom Harper is sinds 2017 betrokken bij de
bloedstollende verhalen van de Courtney familie en schreef onder andere mee aan 'De Prooi van de Tijger' en 'Stormvloed'.
In Aartsvijand volgen we de paden van twee takken van de Courtney familie. Paul Courtney is nog maar een tiener wanneer hij zich in 1794 te midden van de chaos en het geweld van de Franse Revolutie bevindt. Hij is getuige van de brute wijze waarop zijn moeder door de guillotine aan haar einde komt. Angstig en alleen herinnert hij het laatste wat zijn moeder hem liet beloven: ‘Doe wat je moet doen, doorsta alles, zeg alles, wórdt alles, maar beloof me dat je in leven blijft’. Paul besluit zijn heil te zoeken bij het Franse leger, waar hij maar weinig op zijn plek is. Onder generaal Napoleon Bonaparte neemt hij als lid van de Commissie van Wetenschap en Kunst deel aan de militaire campagne in Egypte. Berust op het vinden van een uitweg wordt Paul geconfronteerd door gevaren uit alle hoeken, die hem verder wegbrengen van geluk dan hij ooit is geweest.
Aan de andere kant van de wereld bevindt Adam Courtney zich aan de zijde van zijn vader, Admiraal Robert Courtney, tijdens de aanval op Kaapstad in 1806. Wanneer zij het familiehuis aandoen aan de Oost-Afrikaanse kust, komen zij tot een gruwelijke ontdekking: hun familie is vermoord en het ouderlijk huis verwoest. Adam belooft zijn vader niet te rusten voordat hij de daders heeft gevonden
en wraak heeft genomen voor het verlies van hun familie. Zijn zoektocht naar wraak brengt Adam op een nieuw continent, waar hij geconfronteerd wordt met het verleden.
Aartsvijand is een klassiek Wilbur Smith verhaal waar wraak, liefde en plichtsgevoel samenkomen. Verwacht geen diepzinnige literatuur die de grondslagen van deze concepten uiteenzet, maar een spannend verhaal dat je grijpt tot het einde. Liefhebbers van Smith, en met name van de Courtney reeks, zullen dit verhaal omarmen als een oude vriend. Het boek zit vol verwijzingen naar eerdere gebeurtenissen binnen de familiegeschiedenis. Hoewel het boek opzichzelfstaand kan worden gelezen, raad ik eenieder aan de voorafgaande delen uit de reeks eerst te lezen.
Door de aaneenschakeling van spannende gebeurtenissen vlieg je als lezer door het boek heen. Echter, gaat dit soms ten koste van de persoonlijke ontwikkeling van een karakter. Het boek zit vol met actie en penibele situaties. Afhangend van de lezer, kan het als storend worden ervaren dat de held in het verhaal onaantastbaar is en al zijn roekeloze en heldhaftige acties altijd lijken te slagen. Hierdoor worden de plotlijnen van de karakters soms wat voorspelbaar. Ook de romantiek tussen
hoofdpersonages is vaak wat vlug uiteengezet. Personages hebben maar weinig tijd en korte gesprekken nodig om hopeloos verliefd te worden, waardoor de romances soms schuren aan clichés.
De kracht van Smiths zijn boeken ligt echter in zijn kennis van de historische perioden die de context van zijn verhalen vormen. Zelf geboren in Afrika en daarnaast ook een fervent reiziger, beschikte Smith over levendige kennis om locaties in sfeer, geur en kleur tot leven te brengen. De creativiteit van Smith en Harper om de verschillende takken van de Courtney familie samen te brengen is fascinerend. Zo is het voor het overgrote deel van het boek juist onmogelijk te bedenken hoe de verhaallijnen zich zullen verweven, terwijl je weet dat het staat te gebeuren.
Voor eenieder die zich wil storten in een episch en heldhaftig avontuur, is Aartsvijand zeer aan te raden. Het tumult van de late achttiende en vroege negentiende eeuw creëert de ultieme setting voor dit aangrijpende avontuur. Tom Harper heeft met dit boek wederom laten zien waarom hij door Smith werd verkozen om in zijn verhalen te delen. Persoonlijk kan ik niet wachten op de laatste twee boeken uit de Courtney reeks.
leven verkocht hij meer dan 140 miljoen boeken in meer dan 30 talen. Zijn Courtney Series zijn razend populair en met het verschijnen van Aartsvijand (Originele titel Nemesis) werd het twintigste boek in de Courtney reeks een feit. Co-auteur Tom Harper is sinds 2017 betrokken bij de
bloedstollende verhalen van de Courtney familie en schreef onder andere mee aan 'De Prooi van de Tijger' en 'Stormvloed'.
In Aartsvijand volgen we de paden van twee takken van de Courtney familie. Paul Courtney is nog maar een tiener wanneer hij zich in 1794 te midden van de chaos en het geweld van de Franse Revolutie bevindt. Hij is getuige van de brute wijze waarop zijn moeder door de guillotine aan haar einde komt. Angstig en alleen herinnert hij het laatste wat zijn moeder hem liet beloven: ‘Doe wat je moet doen, doorsta alles, zeg alles, wórdt alles, maar beloof me dat je in leven blijft’. Paul besluit zijn heil te zoeken bij het Franse leger, waar hij maar weinig op zijn plek is. Onder generaal Napoleon Bonaparte neemt hij als lid van de Commissie van Wetenschap en Kunst deel aan de militaire campagne in Egypte. Berust op het vinden van een uitweg wordt Paul geconfronteerd door gevaren uit alle hoeken, die hem verder wegbrengen van geluk dan hij ooit is geweest.
Aan de andere kant van de wereld bevindt Adam Courtney zich aan de zijde van zijn vader, Admiraal Robert Courtney, tijdens de aanval op Kaapstad in 1806. Wanneer zij het familiehuis aandoen aan de Oost-Afrikaanse kust, komen zij tot een gruwelijke ontdekking: hun familie is vermoord en het ouderlijk huis verwoest. Adam belooft zijn vader niet te rusten voordat hij de daders heeft gevonden
en wraak heeft genomen voor het verlies van hun familie. Zijn zoektocht naar wraak brengt Adam op een nieuw continent, waar hij geconfronteerd wordt met het verleden.
Aartsvijand is een klassiek Wilbur Smith verhaal waar wraak, liefde en plichtsgevoel samenkomen. Verwacht geen diepzinnige literatuur die de grondslagen van deze concepten uiteenzet, maar een spannend verhaal dat je grijpt tot het einde. Liefhebbers van Smith, en met name van de Courtney reeks, zullen dit verhaal omarmen als een oude vriend. Het boek zit vol verwijzingen naar eerdere gebeurtenissen binnen de familiegeschiedenis. Hoewel het boek opzichzelfstaand kan worden gelezen, raad ik eenieder aan de voorafgaande delen uit de reeks eerst te lezen.
Door de aaneenschakeling van spannende gebeurtenissen vlieg je als lezer door het boek heen. Echter, gaat dit soms ten koste van de persoonlijke ontwikkeling van een karakter. Het boek zit vol met actie en penibele situaties. Afhangend van de lezer, kan het als storend worden ervaren dat de held in het verhaal onaantastbaar is en al zijn roekeloze en heldhaftige acties altijd lijken te slagen. Hierdoor worden de plotlijnen van de karakters soms wat voorspelbaar. Ook de romantiek tussen
hoofdpersonages is vaak wat vlug uiteengezet. Personages hebben maar weinig tijd en korte gesprekken nodig om hopeloos verliefd te worden, waardoor de romances soms schuren aan clichés.
De kracht van Smiths zijn boeken ligt echter in zijn kennis van de historische perioden die de context van zijn verhalen vormen. Zelf geboren in Afrika en daarnaast ook een fervent reiziger, beschikte Smith over levendige kennis om locaties in sfeer, geur en kleur tot leven te brengen. De creativiteit van Smith en Harper om de verschillende takken van de Courtney familie samen te brengen is fascinerend. Zo is het voor het overgrote deel van het boek juist onmogelijk te bedenken hoe de verhaallijnen zich zullen verweven, terwijl je weet dat het staat te gebeuren.
Voor eenieder die zich wil storten in een episch en heldhaftig avontuur, is Aartsvijand zeer aan te raden. Het tumult van de late achttiende en vroege negentiende eeuw creëert de ultieme setting voor dit aangrijpende avontuur. Tom Harper heeft met dit boek wederom laten zien waarom hij door Smith werd verkozen om in zijn verhalen te delen. Persoonlijk kan ik niet wachten op de laatste twee boeken uit de Courtney reeks.
July 28, 2023
A good book for the real author Tom Harper, but certainly not to the standards of the old Wilbur Smith, but still not bad. It is not really set during the French Revolution, we are only there for about 12 pages, but the Napoleonic Wars are in the backdrop of the first half of the book. The second half in mostly set in pre British Raj India.
The two main characters are Paul and Adam Courtney, and they are relatively good character who do change over the course of the book. There are numerous romance scenes in this book, sometimes almost coming out of nowhere. The plot is predictable, but still rewarding when you get to the end. If you are a fan of Wilbur Smith, I would read just for the story continuity.
The two main characters are Paul and Adam Courtney, and they are relatively good character who do change over the course of the book. There are numerous romance scenes in this book, sometimes almost coming out of nowhere. The plot is predictable, but still rewarding when you get to the end. If you are a fan of Wilbur Smith, I would read just for the story continuity.
July 31, 2024
"Nemesis," the collaborative effort between renowned author Wilbur Smith and Tom Harper, stands as a captivating installment in the Courtney series, specifically the 22nd in publication order and the 8th in chronological sequence. Rated 4 out of 5, the novel expertly weaves themes of adventure, resilience, and the complex relationships that define human nature within the rich historical tapestry of Southern Africa. Through the lens of dynamic characters and a gripping narrative, the authors invite readers to explore the relentless struggles against fate and the forces that shape our lives. Set against the backdrop of a tumultuous period in African history, "Nemesis" encapsulates the spirit of adventure that has become synonymous with the Courtney series. The story follows the protagonist, exploring not only the physical challenges faced in the African wilderness but also the emotional and psychological battles that arise from personal ambitions and moral dilemmas. Smith and Harper's vivid descriptions transport readers to the heart of the continent, where the beauty of the landscape is matched only by the intensity of the conflict. The interplay between the characters and their environment underscores the omnipresent theme of survival, prompting readers to reflect on the tenacity of the human spirit. One of the standout elements of "Nemesis" is its intricate character development. The protagonists are multifaceted individuals, shaped by their experiences and the tumultuous world around them. As they navigate the treacherous waters of loyalty, betrayal, and love, readers are afforded a glimpse into the complexities of their motivations and desires. This depth of character is further enhanced by the rich historical context, which serves as a backdrop for the characters' journeys. The authors skillfully intertwine personal stories with broader historical events, grounding the narrative in a reality that resonates with readers. The pacing of "Nemesis" is another aspect that contributes to its engaging nature. Smith and Harper balance moments of intense action with quieter, introspective scenes that allow readers to digest the emotional weight of the story. This ebb and flow create a sense of urgency while also providing necessary pauses for reflection. As the characters face various adversaries—be they natural, political, or personal—readers are drawn into a world where the stakes are high and the outcome is uncertain. Moreover, the themes explored in "Nemesis" extend beyond mere adventure. The emotional landscapes navigated by the characters touch on universal themes of loss, redemption, and the search for identity. The authors provoke thought about the choices we make and the consequences that follow, inviting readers to examine their own lives through the prism of the characters’ experiences. This philosophical depth adds layers to the narrative, elevating it beyond a simple adventure tale. In conclusion, "Nemesis" is a compelling entry in the Courtney series that showcases the strengths of both Wilbur Smith and Tom Harper as storytellers. With its blend of rich historical context, dynamic character development, and thought-provoking themes, the novel captivates readers, earning its 4 out of 5 rating. As fans of the series and new readers alike delve into the pages of "Nemesis," they will find themselves not only entertained but also challenged to reflect on the essence of resilience and the complexities of the human experience. Whether navigating the perilous landscapes of Africa or the intricate web of relationships that define their lives, the characters serve as a reminder that our greatest challenges often lead to our most profound growth.
May 19, 2023
I wanted to give this 3 1/2 stars, but there's no half star available.
According to Wilbur Smith's Facebook page, prior to his death he had started work on some books and had outlines for others. Obviously, the question is which is which? This one kind of reads like he may have actually done some work on it and it wasn't entirely done by his co-author Tom Harper. Chances are we'll never know.
In a lot of ways this is two books in one, and it's not confusing because it all comes together in the end - more or less. This is the continuing saga of the Courtney family, set at the time of the French Revolution and Napoleon. It also shows us that not all the Courtney's were good people. Some of them were downright despicable, low-life human beings. If you have any doubts, read the book.
What we have are several branches of the Courtney family, and eventually they come together at the end in what can only be considered as too much of a coincidence - it's almost like whoever wrote the ending was searching for a convenient way to end the book and provide closure.
Even so, this is a rip-roaring adventure tale with lots of blood, guts, and sex to keep a person turning the pages for hours on end.
According to Wilbur Smith's Facebook page, prior to his death he had started work on some books and had outlines for others. Obviously, the question is which is which? This one kind of reads like he may have actually done some work on it and it wasn't entirely done by his co-author Tom Harper. Chances are we'll never know.
In a lot of ways this is two books in one, and it's not confusing because it all comes together in the end - more or less. This is the continuing saga of the Courtney family, set at the time of the French Revolution and Napoleon. It also shows us that not all the Courtney's were good people. Some of them were downright despicable, low-life human beings. If you have any doubts, read the book.
What we have are several branches of the Courtney family, and eventually they come together at the end in what can only be considered as too much of a coincidence - it's almost like whoever wrote the ending was searching for a convenient way to end the book and provide closure.
Even so, this is a rip-roaring adventure tale with lots of blood, guts, and sex to keep a person turning the pages for hours on end.
November 19, 2023
4 Stars
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. It had been many years since I last read one of his books, but in the past few months have found myself exploring them once more.
Mr. Smith has a great knack for writing a great suspenseful and exciting read, and thankfully, this was no different. So, if you are an action/adventure buff and want a book that will hold your attention and that you can immerse yourself in- then this may be the book for you!
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. It had been many years since I last read one of his books, but in the past few months have found myself exploring them once more.
Mr. Smith has a great knack for writing a great suspenseful and exciting read, and thankfully, this was no different. So, if you are an action/adventure buff and want a book that will hold your attention and that you can immerse yourself in- then this may be the book for you!
December 2, 2024
This book was very disappointing. I found the story very confusing. Not only were there two separate stories taking place throughout the book, but also a very large number of characters which were difficult to keep track of.
I've read most of Wilbur Smith's books and this was the worst one by quite a way. I veered on the generous side and gave it two stars as the individual scenes were of some interest in their own right, but even these relied on an awful lot of highly unlikely coincidences. The stories seemed to have been written following a formula - incident, move elsewhere, another incident, etc.
I don't think I'll read any more of the recent books. There are one or two standalone stories I haven't read yet.
I've read most of Wilbur Smith's books and this was the worst one by quite a way. I veered on the generous side and gave it two stars as the individual scenes were of some interest in their own right, but even these relied on an awful lot of highly unlikely coincidences. The stories seemed to have been written following a formula - incident, move elsewhere, another incident, etc.
I don't think I'll read any more of the recent books. There are one or two standalone stories I haven't read yet.
July 2, 2023
This book was really good! I guess I shouldn't be surprised, as someone who's read every single one of Wilbur Smith's books--but I was surprised. It was redolent of his much earlier work. Two parallel narratives eventually converge in a remarkable way. The action was excellent, the characters believable; heck, even the vocabulary was richer than normal. I recognize of course that Smith is dead, and this book has a co-author's name on the cover. I believe Smith outlined the plot and Harper did the rest. I am committed to not reading the books if and when they are totally bereft of Smith's involvement. But I'm loving this liminal era.
October 20, 2025
Wilber Smiths Nemesis
This book was a strange book to read, it started well and fished well but the middle portion of the book felt outlandish and somewhat unnecessary.
I enjoyed the adventure elements as always with Wilber smith’s work but the main characters towards the end of the book became to unbelievable as they were incredibly broken but also irresistible as well.
I am not entirely sure if someone would ask me about this book if I would recommend it to anyone, but I would definitely not recommend it to anyone without a disclaimer about how the book reads and the slog it can be at times.
This book was a strange book to read, it started well and fished well but the middle portion of the book felt outlandish and somewhat unnecessary.
I enjoyed the adventure elements as always with Wilber smith’s work but the main characters towards the end of the book became to unbelievable as they were incredibly broken but also irresistible as well.
I am not entirely sure if someone would ask me about this book if I would recommend it to anyone, but I would definitely not recommend it to anyone without a disclaimer about how the book reads and the slog it can be at times.
December 7, 2025
A good read as always with Master Smith, but somewhat disjointed.
I’m currently working my way through the entire Courtney family saga and I must say thoroughly enjoying myself however some of the latest books, like this one, have been written in a somewhat irritating style where there are a couple of plots running that eventually come together, but in the meantime there’s jumping backwards and forwards from one plot line to the other and from one timeframe to another. My poor brain really isn’t up to keeping it all clear - so I found that a bit frustrating - not enough to be unhappy, just not as happy as I could have been.
I’m currently working my way through the entire Courtney family saga and I must say thoroughly enjoying myself however some of the latest books, like this one, have been written in a somewhat irritating style where there are a couple of plots running that eventually come together, but in the meantime there’s jumping backwards and forwards from one plot line to the other and from one timeframe to another. My poor brain really isn’t up to keeping it all clear - so I found that a bit frustrating - not enough to be unhappy, just not as happy as I could have been.
July 16, 2023
This historical fiction adventure continues the saga of the Courtney family, previously seen in earlier Smith novels. Set in the period of the French Revolution and Napoleon's reign, it tells the story of Adam Courtney and Paul Courtenay, unbeknownst to them relatives, on either side of the world, engaged in adventures that include warcraft, romances and sexual escapades. This is a rip-roaring tale of war, adventures on the high seas, and high personal dramas. Plenty of twists and surprises here. Will please the avid historical novel reader.
July 18, 2023
Yes, everyone else seems to love this book, but I could not get past the gratuitous violence on every page of this book. Two story lines, two lines of violence, I wanted to toss the book aside halfway through. Some violence is OK, but this much? Ugh. And really, how could someone survive all the people survived in this story. It seemed so fictitious. The only redeeming line was the two-story lines and how could they come together in the end.
Thank you to librarything.com and Zaffre at Bonnier Books Publishing for a copy of this book.
Thank you to librarything.com and Zaffre at Bonnier Books Publishing for a copy of this book.
Read
June 5, 2024What an awful book, I read it as it started as a promising read and all we read was fighting, massacre, and absolute barbarism. I did expect the story to reach a conclusion but it didn’t do that either. I have loved Wilbur Smith books over the years reading the series books as well as stand alone books but this one just kept you reading but the conclusion did not conclude what the two main characters should have. I expect that may be in the next book but I certainly won’t be reading it.
I won’t give spoilers, which many people do but I was sorely disappointed with this book 📕
I won’t give spoilers, which many people do but I was sorely disappointed with this book 📕
September 14, 2024
Basic
This novel is lightly enjoyable, but perhaps too basic, and many events and scenes feel like page fillers rather than a way to move the story forward. I often felt like the descriptive language did not conjure up an image, which suggests the author had not spent enough time envisioning it himself. This frequently left me with only an impression of a scene, or like seeing it reflected in a window - you could get the jist of it, but the richness and detail had been washed out.
This novel is lightly enjoyable, but perhaps too basic, and many events and scenes feel like page fillers rather than a way to move the story forward. I often felt like the descriptive language did not conjure up an image, which suggests the author had not spent enough time envisioning it himself. This frequently left me with only an impression of a scene, or like seeing it reflected in a window - you could get the jist of it, but the richness and detail had been washed out.
March 31, 2025
I could have done with a little less violence and a bit more history. Action on every page isn't really for me and not quite what I expected from this author, whose books I have read and enjoyed several times before. And I guess the part set in India didn't sit well with me either - it seemed in part romanticised and in part condescending to someone who's grown old in modern India. All in all, this is a book for those who want a grown-up version of Treasure Island or other R. L. Stephenson books.
July 26, 2023
While I haven’t read the previous books about the Courtney family, it was easy to fill in the blanks and reading this non stop adventure might motivate you to read the earlier books. This novel follows two men - Paul who watches his mother executed in the French Revolution and Adam, whose family is murdered in the family compound outside of Cape Town. Very exciting and a hard to put down historical fiction novel.
February 14, 2024
This had great potential, but it ultimately fell a little short. Both main characters were interesting, as was the fact that the story was told in alternating years with one chapter in one year and the following chapter in another. The "Paul" story was fascinating, and tragic. The Adam story was more of what we expect from Wilbur Smith. As one might expect, there is a culmination and interlacing of both stories. I enjoyed the epilogue, but the climax less so.
February 28, 2025
Wilbur Smith is an amazing writer. His books contain characters and events that span decades.
His characters are interesting with flaws, along backstabbing, deceit and deception.
Most of his books take place in Africa, with occasional books visiting India and Egypt.
This book is all about the Courteny Family
These books are mostly action, on and off the high seas. It's been awhile since I read a Wilbur Smith book and I found myself enthralled in his storytelling once again.
His characters are interesting with flaws, along backstabbing, deceit and deception.
Most of his books take place in Africa, with occasional books visiting India and Egypt.
This book is all about the Courteny Family
These books are mostly action, on and off the high seas. It's been awhile since I read a Wilbur Smith book and I found myself enthralled in his storytelling once again.
May 7, 2023
Revenge - a dish best served cold!
What a riveting tale - two strands finally coming together for and instant, and after all the bloodshed and misery, both find happiness - but what a journey. A typical Wilbur Smith saga, with plenty of adventure, twists and surprises.
Now a wait until the next adventure surfaces!
What a riveting tale - two strands finally coming together for and instant, and after all the bloodshed and misery, both find happiness - but what a journey. A typical Wilbur Smith saga, with plenty of adventure, twists and surprises.
Now a wait until the next adventure surfaces!
July 3, 2023
This is a great "Wilbur Smith" novel (even though not actually written by th original author) It basically is two stories that at the very end come together. Very exciting, full of fast moving action and twists and turns in the plot that keep you wondering HOW are they going to bring these two stories together. Highly recommend read.
August 9, 2023
I would not want Adam Courtney looking for me. Ever. He was going to avenge the death of his family. He had one guy in his cross hairs bit was shocked to find the real perpetrators. It is an excellent work of historical fiction. Great descriptions of maritime adventures and conflicts. It touched on slavery in the US and other countries. I would read another book by this author.
March 13, 2024
Fifty Five Years
I have been reading Wilbur Smith books for fifty-five years and they never disappoint, this, the latest in the Courtney series is no different. Two strands of the story running entwined throughout the book make if difficult fo puff down.
I'm looking forward to the next instalment.
I have been reading Wilbur Smith books for fifty-five years and they never disappoint, this, the latest in the Courtney series is no different. Two strands of the story running entwined throughout the book make if difficult fo puff down.
I'm looking forward to the next instalment.
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