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Ancient Egypt #7
Το νέο βασίλειο
Στην καρδιά της Αιγύπτου, κάτω από το άγρυπνο βλέμμα των θεών,
μια νέα δύναμη αναδύεται�
Ο Χουί είναι ο ευνοούμενος γιος του Καουί, κυβερνήτη της Λαχούν, και η μοίρα του μοιάζει προκαθορισμένη. Πίσω από τη φαινομενική ευτυχία, όμως, φωλιάζει το κακό. Χολωμένοι από την εύνοια που δείχνει ο κυβερνήτης στο γιο του, από άλλη μητέρα, η μητριά του Χουί, η Ισετνοφρέτ, και ο γιος της, ο Κεν, ενορχηστρώνουν την πτώση του κυβερνήτη και ενοχοποιούν τον Χουί, ο οποίος δικάζεται και καταδικάζεται σε ευνουχισμό και διαμελισμό. Με τη βοήθεια όμως της αδερφής του, της Ιπουέτ, καταφέρνει να δραπετεύσει από τη φυλακή και να φύγει από τη Λαχούν.
Διωγμένος και μόνος, ο Χουί καταλήγει αιχμάλωτος των Υξώς. Αποφασισμένος να εκδικηθεί για το θάνατο του πατέρα του και να σώσει την αδερφή του, ο Χουί ορκίζεται πίστη σ� αυτούς τους βάρβαρους εχθρούς της Αιγύπτου και δίπλα τους μαθαίνει την τέχνη του πολέμου.
Όταν όμως στραφεί κατά των Υξώς και συναντήσει τον Αιγύπτιο στρατηγό Τάνους, ο Χουί θα βρεθεί σε μια ακόμη μεγαλύτερη μάχη –μι� μάχη για την ίδια την καρδιά της Αιγύπτου. Και τώρα θα πρέπει να επιλέξει το δρόμο του. Θα γίνει ήρωας στον παλιό κόσμο ή άρχοντας σ� ένα νέο βασίλειο;
Ο δεξιοτέχνης της αφήγησης Wilbur Smith επιστρέφει στην Αίγυπτο με ένα βιβλίο που εξερευνά νέες, συναρπαστικές πτυχές του αρχαίου κόσμου που ο ίδιος εμπνεύστηκε πριν από τριάντα χρόνια.
μια νέα δύναμη αναδύεται�
Ο Χουί είναι ο ευνοούμενος γιος του Καουί, κυβερνήτη της Λαχούν, και η μοίρα του μοιάζει προκαθορισμένη. Πίσω από τη φαινομενική ευτυχία, όμως, φωλιάζει το κακό. Χολωμένοι από την εύνοια που δείχνει ο κυβερνήτης στο γιο του, από άλλη μητέρα, η μητριά του Χουί, η Ισετνοφρέτ, και ο γιος της, ο Κεν, ενορχηστρώνουν την πτώση του κυβερνήτη και ενοχοποιούν τον Χουί, ο οποίος δικάζεται και καταδικάζεται σε ευνουχισμό και διαμελισμό. Με τη βοήθεια όμως της αδερφής του, της Ιπουέτ, καταφέρνει να δραπετεύσει από τη φυλακή και να φύγει από τη Λαχούν.
Διωγμένος και μόνος, ο Χουί καταλήγει αιχμάλωτος των Υξώς. Αποφασισμένος να εκδικηθεί για το θάνατο του πατέρα του και να σώσει την αδερφή του, ο Χουί ορκίζεται πίστη σ� αυτούς τους βάρβαρους εχθρούς της Αιγύπτου και δίπλα τους μαθαίνει την τέχνη του πολέμου.
Όταν όμως στραφεί κατά των Υξώς και συναντήσει τον Αιγύπτιο στρατηγό Τάνους, ο Χουί θα βρεθεί σε μια ακόμη μεγαλύτερη μάχη –μι� μάχη για την ίδια την καρδιά της Αιγύπτου. Και τώρα θα πρέπει να επιλέξει το δρόμο του. Θα γίνει ήρωας στον παλιό κόσμο ή άρχοντας σ� ένα νέο βασίλειο;
Ο δεξιοτέχνης της αφήγησης Wilbur Smith επιστρέφει στην Αίγυπτο με ένα βιβλίο που εξερευνά νέες, συναρπαστικές πτυχές του αρχαίου κόσμου που ο ίδιος εμπνεύστηκε πριν από τριάντα χρόνια.
408 pages, Paperback
First published September 2, 2021
643 people are currently reading
3,371 people want to read
About the author
Wilbur Smith
584books4,244followersWilbur 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 246 reviews
August 9, 2021
I feel like this book would be great for action movie lovers. Those who don't need much plot or character details, but who love non-stop movement and action... and not much else. I felt that a lot of the book was Hui jumping from group to group, and making really base level relationships that come into play not very satisfyingly or clever later on. The beginning of the book really hyped the Ka Stone, but I felt never really capitalized on what it was or could do or anything at all.
Hui was kind of bland as a character, too. There wasn't really anything that made him interesting or relatable, and really the only thing that made him likable was his "goodness/loyalty". Overall this book left me wanting, and I found myself just trying to get through it towards the end so I could move on to something else.
(TW: mother-son incest, multiple instances of rape)
Hui was kind of bland as a character, too. There wasn't really anything that made him interesting or relatable, and really the only thing that made him likable was his "goodness/loyalty". Overall this book left me wanting, and I found myself just trying to get through it towards the end so I could move on to something else.
(TW: mother-son incest, multiple instances of rape)
September 6, 2021
The New Kingdom is the author’s seventh novel in his The Egyptian Series. This being the case, some readers may want to defer reading this novel until the other six prior novels are read. However, I found that The New Kingdom could be read as a standalone, albeit there was a soft ending � not conclusive, but not open ended.
The characters are varied and many. There are more than a dozen actors in this novel. And for me, that was probably too many to fully grasp each player’s personality and their place in the narrative. Perhaps the character development started with Smith’s first novel, River God. And I probably need to read the first novel to fully appreciate the seventh novel in this series. However, there are a few characters that stood out for me. Hui, the main protagonist, Khyan who took Hui under his wing, and Fareed, a tracker that stood by Hui through thick and thin. Nevertheless, Hui by far stood out for his perseverance, bravery and courage.
The world-building was a little lax and this too probably has to do with not reading the first novel in the series. However, there is enough information to get a feel for the era, the cities, townships, and weaponry.
The New Kingdom is an enjoyable read. Especially if the reader enjoys ancient Egyptian history. I found The New Kingdom absorbing, but I wanted more excitement, and mystery. At 432 pages, it wasn’t a slog to read, but there were some dips in the pacing of the novel. Still a four adventurous star read.
I received a physical ARC from Bonnier Zaffre through the Bookish First Raffle. The review herein is completely my own and contains my honest thoughts and opinions.
The characters are varied and many. There are more than a dozen actors in this novel. And for me, that was probably too many to fully grasp each player’s personality and their place in the narrative. Perhaps the character development started with Smith’s first novel, River God. And I probably need to read the first novel to fully appreciate the seventh novel in this series. However, there are a few characters that stood out for me. Hui, the main protagonist, Khyan who took Hui under his wing, and Fareed, a tracker that stood by Hui through thick and thin. Nevertheless, Hui by far stood out for his perseverance, bravery and courage.
The world-building was a little lax and this too probably has to do with not reading the first novel in the series. However, there is enough information to get a feel for the era, the cities, townships, and weaponry.
The New Kingdom is an enjoyable read. Especially if the reader enjoys ancient Egyptian history. I found The New Kingdom absorbing, but I wanted more excitement, and mystery. At 432 pages, it wasn’t a slog to read, but there were some dips in the pacing of the novel. Still a four adventurous star read.
I received a physical ARC from Bonnier Zaffre through the Bookish First Raffle. The review herein is completely my own and contains my honest thoughts and opinions.
August 15, 2021
I would give this a 3.5 so I rounded up for reviews. I really love Egyptian history and mythology, so I was excited for this one. I think he adventure parts were well done, but there wasn’t much beyond the adventure scenes which made it lack substance for me. I did like the mythology woven into the story. The main character Hui had potential, but I felt like there wasn’t enough character development. Hui, his brother Qen, and their good from Kyky start off this book on an adventure looking for the Ka Stone for the glory of Egypt. This adventure starts Hui on a path he could have never have imagined full of surprises, hardship, and adventure. I did find a lot of the plot pretty predictable, but the story moved along at a good speed and it was very adventurous. I haven’t read the rest of this series and I did not think that I was missing anything because of that.
October 12, 2022
Excitement rushed through me. A number 7 book in the Ancient Egyptian series by Wilbur Smith. So glad I had read the previous 6 books: that I knew some of the key characters, understood the prior history to the time of Hui and understood the rivalries faced by Egypt. Not just Upper Egypt versus Lower Egypt. But the forces coming to them from East and West.
Hui, our lead character, is son of the ruler-in-waiting in the city of Luhan. But evil awaits and he ends up unfairly outed from Lahun. His goal then is to seek justice for his disgraced father, save his loyal sister and oust the outlaw enemies from his beloved Egypt.
Unputdownable.
Hui, our lead character, is son of the ruler-in-waiting in the city of Luhan. But evil awaits and he ends up unfairly outed from Lahun. His goal then is to seek justice for his disgraced father, save his loyal sister and oust the outlaw enemies from his beloved Egypt.
Unputdownable.
November 30, 2023
Πολύ φτηνό "filler" στη σειρά "Ancient Egypt", πιθανότατα γραμμένο από τον Mark Chadburn και συνυπογεγραμμένο από τον Wilbur Smith (στα 88 του όταν εκδόθηκε, δεν ξέρω καν αν το πρόλαβε ζωντανός).
Διαδραματίζεται στην εποχή της επιδρομής των Υξώς στην Αίγυπτο και έχει σαν πρωταγωνιστή τον Χουί, γιο του κυβερνήτη της πόλης της Λαχούν, ο οποίος αφότου έχει δει τον πατέρα του να δηλητηριάζεται (από τη μητριά και τον αδελφό του), τη μητριά του να κάνει... θρησκευτικό εκστατικό σεξ "κάτω από τον βλέμμα του Σεθ" με το γιο της και έχει άδικα κατηγορηθεί για το φόνο του πατέρα του, φεύγει κυνηγημένος από την πόλη του και καταλήγει πρώτα αιχμάλωτος των Υξώς οι οποίοι φυσικά θα τον αγαπήσουν και θα του φερθούν καλά -ενώ είναι έτοιμοι να περάσουν λεπίδι όλη την Αίγυπτο- και στη συνέχεια, αφότου προδώσει την εμπιστοσύνη των "βαρβάρων" και δραπετεύσει κλέβοντάς τους και ένα τόξο, θα γίνει μέλος των "αετομάχων" (οι οποίοι είναι κάτι σαν συνδικάτο του εγκλήματος της ερήμου) και θα λάβει μέρος σε δολοφονίες και λεηλασίες με σκοπό το κέρδος. Φυσικά, όταν έρθουν αντιμέτωποι με τον τακτικό στρατό και αποδεκατιστούν, θα τους προδώσει και αυτούς και θα περάσει στην πλευρά της νομιμότητας.
Στη συνέχεια ακολουθεί ένα οδοιπορικό που αναζητά κορύφωση στην εκδίκηση (μητριά και ετεροθαλής αδελφός), την ώρα που οι ορδές των Υξώς ετοιμάζονται να καταλάβουν και τα δύο Αιγυπτιακά βασίλεια.
Σε περίπτωση που σας έλειψε, το βιβλίο έχει και λίγο Τάιτα (θυμίζω ότι είναι πριν... ανακτήσει με μαγικό τρόπο τους όρχεις του), αλλά σε καμία περίπτωση η παρουσία του ευφυούς ευνούχου δεν αρκεί για να σώσει το βιβλίο.
Καθώς οδεύουμε προς το θλιβερό από πλευράς ποιότητας και σεβασμού στον αναγνώστη φινάλε, ο Χουί θα μονομαχήσει με τον αδελφό του που έχει προδώσει την Αίγυπτο και έχει συμμαχήσει με τους Υξώς, μέσα στο ναό της Λαχούν και θα τον κερδίσει επειδή... μια ιερή πέτρα ανατινάζεται στα χέρια του. Αργότερα θα σκοτώσει και την -χρήζουσα ψυχιατρικής βοήθειας- μητριά του την ώρα που χορεύει μπροστά του γυμνή και με δηλητήριο στα νύχια της, επικαλούμενη τον Σεθ, ή για την ακρίβεια θα τη μαχαιρώσει και θα την πετάξει σε ένα λάκο με φίδια που εκείνη έχει συγκεντρώσει (τώρα βρίσκετε πολύ πιο λογική τη συλλογή από κουταλάκια του γλυκού που είχε μια θεία σας σε γυάλινη προθήκη, ε;).
Στα παραλειπόμενα της ιστορίας, επειδή όταν εκδόθηκε το βιβλίο είχαμε 2021, οι συγγραφείς βάζουν και ένα παντελώς αχρείαστο από πλευράς πλοκής λεσβιακό ειδύλλιο ανάμεσα στην αδελφή του Χουί και την... παρ' ολίγο γυναίκα του, τις οποίες ο αφελής Χουί πιάνει κυριολεκτικά στα πράσα, on the act.
Στο φόντο της ζωής του Χουί, η Αίγυπτος παραδίδεται σχεδόν αμαχητί στους εισβολείς και ο Τάιτα μαζί με μερικές χιλιάδες από το λαό της παίρνουν το δρόμο για το νότο μέσω Νείλου (όπως είδαμε σε προηγούμενο βιβλίο της σειράς).
Είναι προφανές ότι στον εκδοτικό κόσμο δεν "σκοτώνουν τα άλογα όταν γεράσουν", αντίθετα, συνεχίζουν να τα αρμέγουν παρέχοντας τραγικές ποιοτικά συνέχειες αναγνωρισμένων σειρών. Και, το καλύτερο; Δεν είναι καν το τελευταίο. Ακολουθούν το Titans of War και το Testament, γραμμένα αμφότερα αποκλειστικά από τον Chadburn, εκτός κι αν ο Wilbur Smith εμφανίζεται στον ουρανό όπως οι νεκροί Τζεντάι και του του δίνει οδηγίες.
Διαδραματίζεται στην εποχή της επιδρομής των Υξώς στην Αίγυπτο και έχει σαν πρωταγωνιστή τον Χουί, γιο του κυβερνήτη της πόλης της Λαχούν, ο οποίος αφότου έχει δει τον πατέρα του να δηλητηριάζεται (από τη μητριά και τον αδελφό του), τη μητριά του να κάνει... θρησκευτικό εκστατικό σεξ "κάτω από τον βλέμμα του Σεθ" με το γιο της και έχει άδικα κατηγορηθεί για το φόνο του πατέρα του, φεύγει κυνηγημένος από την πόλη του και καταλήγει πρώτα αιχμάλωτος των Υξώς οι οποίοι φυσικά θα τον αγαπήσουν και θα του φερθούν καλά -ενώ είναι έτοιμοι να περάσουν λεπίδι όλη την Αίγυπτο- και στη συνέχεια, αφότου προδώσει την εμπιστοσύνη των "βαρβάρων" και δραπετεύσει κλέβοντάς τους και ένα τόξο, θα γίνει μέλος των "αετομάχων" (οι οποίοι είναι κάτι σαν συνδικάτο του εγκλήματος της ερήμου) και θα λάβει μέρος σε δολοφονίες και λεηλασίες με σκοπό το κέρδος. Φυσικά, όταν έρθουν αντιμέτωποι με τον τακτικό στρατό και αποδεκατιστούν, θα τους προδώσει και αυτούς και θα περάσει στην πλευρά της νομιμότητας.
Στη συνέχεια ακολουθεί ένα οδοιπορικό που αναζητά κορύφωση στην εκδίκηση (μητριά και ετεροθαλής αδελφός), την ώρα που οι ορδές των Υξώς ετοιμάζονται να καταλάβουν και τα δύο Αιγυπτιακά βασίλεια.
Σε περίπτωση που σας έλειψε, το βιβλίο έχει και λίγο Τάιτα (θυμίζω ότι είναι πριν... ανακτήσει με μαγικό τρόπο τους όρχεις του), αλλά σε καμία περίπτωση η παρουσία του ευφυούς ευνούχου δεν αρκεί για να σώσει το βιβλίο.
Καθώς οδεύουμε προς το θλιβερό από πλευράς ποιότητας και σεβασμού στον αναγνώστη φινάλε, ο Χουί θα μονομαχήσει με τον αδελφό του που έχει προδώσει την Αίγυπτο και έχει συμμαχήσει με τους Υξώς, μέσα στο ναό της Λαχούν και θα τον κερδίσει επειδή... μια ιερή πέτρα ανατινάζεται στα χέρια του. Αργότερα θα σκοτώσει και την -χρήζουσα ψυχιατρικής βοήθειας- μητριά του την ώρα που χορεύει μπροστά του γυμνή και με δηλητήριο στα νύχια της, επικαλούμενη τον Σεθ, ή για την ακρίβεια θα τη μαχαιρώσει και θα την πετάξει σε ένα λάκο με φίδια που εκείνη έχει συγκεντρώσει (τώρα βρίσκετε πολύ πιο λογική τη συλλογή από κουταλάκια του γλυκού που είχε μια θεία σας σε γυάλινη προθήκη, ε;).
Στα παραλειπόμενα της ιστορίας, επειδή όταν εκδόθηκε το βιβλίο είχαμε 2021, οι συγγραφείς βάζουν και ένα παντελώς αχρείαστο από πλευράς πλοκής λεσβιακό ειδύλλιο ανάμεσα στην αδελφή του Χουί και την... παρ' ολίγο γυναίκα του, τις οποίες ο αφελής Χουί πιάνει κυριολεκτικά στα πράσα, on the act.
Στο φόντο της ζωής του Χουί, η Αίγυπτος παραδίδεται σχεδόν αμαχητί στους εισβολείς και ο Τάιτα μαζί με μερικές χιλιάδες από το λαό της παίρνουν το δρόμο για το νότο μέσω Νείλου (όπως είδαμε σε προηγούμενο βιβλίο της σειράς).
Είναι προφανές ότι στον εκδοτικό κόσμο δεν "σκοτώνουν τα άλογα όταν γεράσουν", αντίθετα, συνεχίζουν να τα αρμέγουν παρέχοντας τραγικές ποιοτικά συνέχειες αναγνωρισμένων σειρών. Και, το καλύτερο; Δεν είναι καν το τελευταίο. Ακολουθούν το Titans of War και το Testament, γραμμένα αμφότερα αποκλειστικά από τον Chadburn, εκτός κι αν ο Wilbur Smith εμφανίζεται στον ουρανό όπως οι νεκροί Τζεντάι και του του δίνει οδηγίες.
November 15, 2021
Thank you so much to Zaffre and Bookish First for the opportunity to read yet another new Wilbur Smith novel!
I swear by Smith's historical fiction, with it's unapologetic brutality and what I feel is probably a pretty honest portrayal of how things would have been. By all accounts his novels are well researched, plus always an interesting adventure whether the book is read in order or as a standalone.
Smith saw potential in the Hui character and wrote him a history/spinoff story, possibly series. I totally 100% endorse this decision and can't wait to see what the next one holds.
While each and every one of Smith's books can be read as a standalone, the cameos inThe New Kingdom are there along with quite a few easter eggs for returning readers. I thought Taita's eyes would fall off his face from rolling them so much.
Despite solid pacing and excitement throughout, I thought the book didn't quite deliver on the synopsis. The Ka stone and the Gods were hinted to be a big part of the novel and to avoid spoilers, I will just say that I wanted more from both of those topics.
I wanted more from Hui becoming a charioteer as well, but I believe we will see the fruits of that in the next novel.
I liked watching Hui come so close to losing his true self. He was so sweetly naive until his family's betrayal. Then he became a thief, a guard, a Little Rat, then a killer, and finally, in an amazing scene, a hardened captain. Throughout the book Fareed, a scout, was a static character but acted as a soul mirror for Hui. A running theme throughout the book was to find out how much humanity Hui retained through all his trials, and in another amazing scene Smith showed that through it all Hui never did lose his true self.
Smith is not an author for inner monologue but Hui is a fairly deep and interesting character.
Tanus and Taita, well, all I can say is go read the other Ancient Egypt books.
Tim Holland wrote a great afterward to provide a broad historical context for the characters, and I almost wish it had been presented as a forward. It makes sense that with thousands of years of peace and prosperity, Egypt felt pretty invincible.
The other thing that makes these books seem so realistic is how well Smith brings the climate, setting, and mood of the populace into play: whether in a baking desert, war-torn city, refugee camp, or Pharaoh's palace, I feel like I can picture those sun burnt dripping slaves and sandstorm, midden heaps and incense, terrified citizens... For historical fiction and immersion these things always feel important to me
The only other thing I would have asked for was either section breaks or dates, because it was very hard to tell how much time was passing between major events and I feel like that information would have been helpful to the story.
Overall, not Smith's best but another very solid book. He is one of my auto buy authors. Definitely and always recommend for HistFic readers and adventure lovers
I swear by Smith's historical fiction, with it's unapologetic brutality and what I feel is probably a pretty honest portrayal of how things would have been. By all accounts his novels are well researched, plus always an interesting adventure whether the book is read in order or as a standalone.
Smith saw potential in the Hui character and wrote him a history/spinoff story, possibly series. I totally 100% endorse this decision and can't wait to see what the next one holds.
While each and every one of Smith's books can be read as a standalone, the cameos inThe New Kingdom are there along with quite a few easter eggs for returning readers. I thought Taita's eyes would fall off his face from rolling them so much.
Despite solid pacing and excitement throughout, I thought the book didn't quite deliver on the synopsis. The Ka stone and the Gods were hinted to be a big part of the novel and to avoid spoilers, I will just say that I wanted more from both of those topics.
I wanted more from Hui becoming a charioteer as well, but I believe we will see the fruits of that in the next novel.
I liked watching Hui come so close to losing his true self. He was so sweetly naive until his family's betrayal. Then he became a thief, a guard, a Little Rat, then a killer, and finally, in an amazing scene, a hardened captain. Throughout the book Fareed, a scout, was a static character but acted as a soul mirror for Hui. A running theme throughout the book was to find out how much humanity Hui retained through all his trials, and in another amazing scene Smith showed that through it all Hui never did lose his true self.
Smith is not an author for inner monologue but Hui is a fairly deep and interesting character.
Tanus and Taita, well, all I can say is go read the other Ancient Egypt books.
Tim Holland wrote a great afterward to provide a broad historical context for the characters, and I almost wish it had been presented as a forward. It makes sense that with thousands of years of peace and prosperity, Egypt felt pretty invincible.
The other thing that makes these books seem so realistic is how well Smith brings the climate, setting, and mood of the populace into play: whether in a baking desert, war-torn city, refugee camp, or Pharaoh's palace, I feel like I can picture those sun burnt dripping slaves and sandstorm, midden heaps and incense, terrified citizens... For historical fiction and immersion these things always feel important to me
The only other thing I would have asked for was either section breaks or dates, because it was very hard to tell how much time was passing between major events and I feel like that information would have been helpful to the story.
Overall, not Smith's best but another very solid book. He is one of my auto buy authors. Definitely and always recommend for HistFic readers and adventure lovers
September 21, 2021
Book No. 7 of the Ancient Egypt series � The New Kingdom. Hui, the younger son of Khawy, Governor of Lahun, is a precocious teenager. One night, Hui, his elder brother Qen and friend Kyky slip into the camp of the Shrikes, a brutal band of pillagers, to steal the Ka Stone. It is known to be the source of unimaginable power and prestige for its owner. But what follows is great tragedy and Hui is blamed for it. But he escapes into the wild to take up the Shrikes and then the Hyksos. His only aim is to return one day to Lahun, clear his name and reclaim lost glory.
Through a series of adventures, Hui lands up with General Tanus and his wizened old advisor, the mage Taita. Hui by now has learnt the art of warfare, charioteering and horsemanship. He’s proved himself invaluable to Tanus, will he be able to return to Lahun to his rightful place?
Please read my detailed review from the link below:
Do Read, Like, Comment or Share
#wilbursmith #egyptianseries #adventure #bookreview #bookreviews #booklovers #thrillers #books #bookrecommendations #suspense #mystery #adventurebooks #taita #historicalfiction
Through a series of adventures, Hui lands up with General Tanus and his wizened old advisor, the mage Taita. Hui by now has learnt the art of warfare, charioteering and horsemanship. He’s proved himself invaluable to Tanus, will he be able to return to Lahun to his rightful place?
Please read my detailed review from the link below:
Do Read, Like, Comment or Share
#wilbursmith #egyptianseries #adventure #bookreview #bookreviews #booklovers #thrillers #books #bookrecommendations #suspense #mystery #adventurebooks #taita #historicalfiction
December 11, 2024
Wilbur Smith, the legendary master of historical adventure, immerses readers in ancient Egypt with The New Kingdom. Known for his vivid storytelling, Smith’s novels span continents and eras, and this book certainly adds to his impressive legacy.
Hui, a young scribe, sees his life shattered when betrayal and murder tear his family apart. Cast out by a conniving stepmother and brother, Hui’s journey takes him from the comforts of Lahun to the harsh realities of exile. Along the way, he joins the Hyksos—a formidable army of outlaws—and transforms into a fierce warrior. His quest for vengeance becomes intertwined with the fate of Egypt itself, as gods and mortals collide in a battle for the nation’s soul.
Smith’s meticulous research shines through in his portrayal of ancient Egypt’s bustling cities and harsh deserts. The setting feels alive, rich with vivid details of temples, marketplaces, and chariot warfare. However, the novel falters slightly with its reliance on one-dimensional characters and stretches of heavy narrative, which might test some readers� patience.
Despite these flaws, the fast-paced action and Hui’s transformation keep the story engaging. The book works well as a standalone, even for those unfamiliar with Smith’s earlier Egyptian novels.
While The New Kingdom didn’t fully ignite my interest in Egyptian history, it proved Smith’s skill as a storyteller. For those craving an epic adventure, this is worth a read. Next, I’m eyeing one of his African-set novels, which promise just as much excitement. 4 stars.
** Thanks to the publisher for a review copy. The opinions are my own.
Hui, a young scribe, sees his life shattered when betrayal and murder tear his family apart. Cast out by a conniving stepmother and brother, Hui’s journey takes him from the comforts of Lahun to the harsh realities of exile. Along the way, he joins the Hyksos—a formidable army of outlaws—and transforms into a fierce warrior. His quest for vengeance becomes intertwined with the fate of Egypt itself, as gods and mortals collide in a battle for the nation’s soul.
Smith’s meticulous research shines through in his portrayal of ancient Egypt’s bustling cities and harsh deserts. The setting feels alive, rich with vivid details of temples, marketplaces, and chariot warfare. However, the novel falters slightly with its reliance on one-dimensional characters and stretches of heavy narrative, which might test some readers� patience.
Despite these flaws, the fast-paced action and Hui’s transformation keep the story engaging. The book works well as a standalone, even for those unfamiliar with Smith’s earlier Egyptian novels.
While The New Kingdom didn’t fully ignite my interest in Egyptian history, it proved Smith’s skill as a storyteller. For those craving an epic adventure, this is worth a read. Next, I’m eyeing one of his African-set novels, which promise just as much excitement. 4 stars.
** Thanks to the publisher for a review copy. The opinions are my own.
August 7, 2021
Exotic, exciting, riveting and steeped in History.
A tale of Ancient Egypt, of pharaohs and slaves and a city called Lahun where Hui lives with his father, his stepmother Ipsetnofret, his brother Qen and his sister Ipwet. He is favored by his father and is expected to take over the govern ship when his father is gone . Ipsetnofret, his stepmother, is jealous and wants her son Qen to be in favor. She is a sorceress and she orchestrates the death of Hui's father so Qen can be in charge making it look like Hui is the murderer of his own father. With his sister Ipwet's help he escapes with his life and vows revenge upon his mother and brother.
The story follows Hui's travels among the Hyksos Warriors, the Shrike bandits, the armies of the Red Pretender and finally the Pharoah's Army. It takes us to battle grounds, the banks of the Nile, cities and the desert sands. We see the lives of the slaves, the beggars, the wealthy, and the royals. We visit so many exotic places as we read and learn of the long lost customs and beliefs.
I always feel like I have been on an adventure when I read one of Wilbur Smith's books. They always take me away to some far away land. I really enjoyed reading the book and I would recommend it.
Thanks to Wilbur Smith, Bonnier Zaffre USA, and NetGalley for allowing me to read a complimentary copy of the book for my honest review.
A tale of Ancient Egypt, of pharaohs and slaves and a city called Lahun where Hui lives with his father, his stepmother Ipsetnofret, his brother Qen and his sister Ipwet. He is favored by his father and is expected to take over the govern ship when his father is gone . Ipsetnofret, his stepmother, is jealous and wants her son Qen to be in favor. She is a sorceress and she orchestrates the death of Hui's father so Qen can be in charge making it look like Hui is the murderer of his own father. With his sister Ipwet's help he escapes with his life and vows revenge upon his mother and brother.
The story follows Hui's travels among the Hyksos Warriors, the Shrike bandits, the armies of the Red Pretender and finally the Pharoah's Army. It takes us to battle grounds, the banks of the Nile, cities and the desert sands. We see the lives of the slaves, the beggars, the wealthy, and the royals. We visit so many exotic places as we read and learn of the long lost customs and beliefs.
I always feel like I have been on an adventure when I read one of Wilbur Smith's books. They always take me away to some far away land. I really enjoyed reading the book and I would recommend it.
Thanks to Wilbur Smith, Bonnier Zaffre USA, and NetGalley for allowing me to read a complimentary copy of the book for my honest review.
July 29, 2021
Received and ARC of this book from the publisher. Wow! Elegant prose. Pitch-perfect dialogue. Adventure right from the start. You'll wish you had written it.
March 12, 2023
Loved it! Once I started reading it, I couldn't put it down.
November 25, 2021
Bea65 - per RFS
.
Fenici, è sempre un piacere parlarvi di un romanzo di Wilbur Smith.
Per la prima volta all’inizio del volume ho trovato scritto che Smith aveva un coautore (magari sono io che non ci avevo mai fatto caso) e ho pensato: “Certo che ha una bella età, magari un aiuto gli serve�. E proprio mentre ero immersa nella lettura arriva la notizia della sua scomparsa, sono rimasta basita, ho guardato il libro che avevo in mano e l’unico pensiero che mi è passato per la mente è stato: “Questo è l’ultimo, il suo ultimo romanzo�.
Ci pensate? non ci saranno più capolavori che usciranno dalla sua penna.
Il suo modo di scrivere mi ha sempre appassionata, non solo per le storie che ha raccontato, ma per come lo ha fatto, quando mi immergo in un suo romanzo mi sento come Bastian che segue le imprese di Atreiu nel libro “La storia infinita�.
Questo racconto ci porta tra le sabbie dell’Egitto, nella città di confine Lahun, dove iniziamo a seguire la vita del giovane Hai, figlio del governatore.
Un ragazzo dolce e di buon cuore, che ama il padre e i fratelli, con uno spirito avventuroso che segnerà la sua vita.
Curioso come una scimmia, Hui sente un viaggiatore parlare della Pietra di Ka, che racchiude dei poteri magici e chi la possiede sarà benedetto dagli Dei; il ragazzo, insieme al fratello Qen e all’amico Kyky, si avventura così nel deserto per rubare la pietra alle Averle, una tribù di predoni.
I ragazzi riescono nell’impresa, ma Kyky perde la vita e questo lutto finisce per incrinare i rapporti tra i fratelli.
Al rientro a casa Hui consegna la pietra al padre Khawy, che con sommo orgoglio organizza una festa per mostrarla al nobile Bakari e presentargli il figlio.
Ma la sera della festa Khawy viene avvelenato e dell’assassinio è accusato Hui; durante il processo la sorella Ipwet prende le sue difese mentre Qen lo considera colpevole.
Il povero Hui, già straziato dalla morte dell’amato padre, non riesce a credere al tradimento del fratello.
Dopo la condanna, in attesa della morte viene buttato in un pozzo dove riceve la visita della madre di Qen che gli rivela di essere stata lei a orchestrare l’omicidio del marito e la sua colpevolezza per favorire l’ascesa al potere del figlio.
Il ragazzo non riesce a credere che l’amato fratello si sia potuto macchiare di un crimine così grande, ma l’alba si avvicina e con essa la morte; all’ultimo istante arriva la sorella che lo aiuterà a scappare.
Da quel momento è un fuggitivo, pur non essendo pronto per la vita che lo aspetta, la determinazione di vendicare la morte del padre gli permetterà di affrontare le esperienze che lo attendono.
Il personaggio di Hui mi ha affascinato, così dolce e ingenuo, cresciuto protetto dall’amore del padre, diventerà uomo tra mille avversità e scelte rischiose, pur rimanendo un’anima buona.
Per contro Isetnofret, la madre di Qen, mi inquieta moltissimo; seguace di Seth, il Dio del caos, sembra una strega folle che cerca il potere divino a ogni costo, ama solo il figlio maschio mentre la femmina le serve solo per raggiungere i suoi scopi, è proprio brutta persona.
Un romanzo che ho letto tutto di un fiato, amando la narrazione, ma soprattutto il modo di scrivere di Smith, con le sue frasi ben strutturate e i periodi belli corposi, per fortuna il traduttore ha fatto un ottimo lavoro e anche l’editor, di questi tempi è difficile trovare tanta professionalità.
Vi consiglio di leggere questo ultimo libro del maestro, non solo perché non potrà scriverne altri ma soprattutto perché ne vale veramente la pena.
Buona lettura.
.
Fenici, è sempre un piacere parlarvi di un romanzo di Wilbur Smith.
Per la prima volta all’inizio del volume ho trovato scritto che Smith aveva un coautore (magari sono io che non ci avevo mai fatto caso) e ho pensato: “Certo che ha una bella età, magari un aiuto gli serve�. E proprio mentre ero immersa nella lettura arriva la notizia della sua scomparsa, sono rimasta basita, ho guardato il libro che avevo in mano e l’unico pensiero che mi è passato per la mente è stato: “Questo è l’ultimo, il suo ultimo romanzo�.
Ci pensate? non ci saranno più capolavori che usciranno dalla sua penna.
Il suo modo di scrivere mi ha sempre appassionata, non solo per le storie che ha raccontato, ma per come lo ha fatto, quando mi immergo in un suo romanzo mi sento come Bastian che segue le imprese di Atreiu nel libro “La storia infinita�.
Questo racconto ci porta tra le sabbie dell’Egitto, nella città di confine Lahun, dove iniziamo a seguire la vita del giovane Hai, figlio del governatore.
Un ragazzo dolce e di buon cuore, che ama il padre e i fratelli, con uno spirito avventuroso che segnerà la sua vita.
Curioso come una scimmia, Hui sente un viaggiatore parlare della Pietra di Ka, che racchiude dei poteri magici e chi la possiede sarà benedetto dagli Dei; il ragazzo, insieme al fratello Qen e all’amico Kyky, si avventura così nel deserto per rubare la pietra alle Averle, una tribù di predoni.
I ragazzi riescono nell’impresa, ma Kyky perde la vita e questo lutto finisce per incrinare i rapporti tra i fratelli.
Al rientro a casa Hui consegna la pietra al padre Khawy, che con sommo orgoglio organizza una festa per mostrarla al nobile Bakari e presentargli il figlio.
Ma la sera della festa Khawy viene avvelenato e dell’assassinio è accusato Hui; durante il processo la sorella Ipwet prende le sue difese mentre Qen lo considera colpevole.
Il povero Hui, già straziato dalla morte dell’amato padre, non riesce a credere al tradimento del fratello.
Dopo la condanna, in attesa della morte viene buttato in un pozzo dove riceve la visita della madre di Qen che gli rivela di essere stata lei a orchestrare l’omicidio del marito e la sua colpevolezza per favorire l’ascesa al potere del figlio.
Il ragazzo non riesce a credere che l’amato fratello si sia potuto macchiare di un crimine così grande, ma l’alba si avvicina e con essa la morte; all’ultimo istante arriva la sorella che lo aiuterà a scappare.
Da quel momento è un fuggitivo, pur non essendo pronto per la vita che lo aspetta, la determinazione di vendicare la morte del padre gli permetterà di affrontare le esperienze che lo attendono.
Il personaggio di Hui mi ha affascinato, così dolce e ingenuo, cresciuto protetto dall’amore del padre, diventerà uomo tra mille avversità e scelte rischiose, pur rimanendo un’anima buona.
Per contro Isetnofret, la madre di Qen, mi inquieta moltissimo; seguace di Seth, il Dio del caos, sembra una strega folle che cerca il potere divino a ogni costo, ama solo il figlio maschio mentre la femmina le serve solo per raggiungere i suoi scopi, è proprio brutta persona.
Un romanzo che ho letto tutto di un fiato, amando la narrazione, ma soprattutto il modo di scrivere di Smith, con le sue frasi ben strutturate e i periodi belli corposi, per fortuna il traduttore ha fatto un ottimo lavoro e anche l’editor, di questi tempi è difficile trovare tanta professionalità.
Vi consiglio di leggere questo ultimo libro del maestro, non solo perché non potrà scriverne altri ma soprattutto perché ne vale veramente la pena.
Buona lettura.
November 12, 2021
Wilbur smith has a way of peopling plots with such believable characters that you feel their world is yours. In Smith's New Kingdom, seventh in the Egyptian series and co-wrote with Mark Chadbourn, the son of a minor Egyptian city ruler leads an enchanted life until being accused of murder and condemned to death. Hui manages to escape but without the money and power he is accustomed, in fact, with only his life and his wits. His world is now that of a commoner, his very food at the pleasure of any merchant who will employ him. He accepts the challenge, knowing when he becomes comfortable in this uncomfortable world, he can then exact revenge against those who killed his father, wronged his sister, and tortured him in preparation for his death. To survive these new circumstances, he must make alliances with nefarious characters he once condemned, and find loyal friends who will help him in his quest.
When the book ends, Hui is not the same boy who we started this journey with:
"‘You still have city eyes, good for what’s at your feet, but near-useless here,� Fareed said. ‘In the desert you learn to see over great distances. One day you will see a fox run across that peak.�"
"...felt his fear harden into unfamiliar cold anger."
x
"...hard men, used to the privations of the road, made iron-strong by long marches under the hot sun, hearts turned to stone..."
x
"he realized many more equally murderous thoughts he never knew existed were beginning to awaken within him."
His metamorphosis from pampered royalty to charismatic justice fighter is a riveting tale not to be hurried.
A few points gave me pause. The first: I wasn’t always sure why Hui or his loyal friend Farrouk did some of the things they did--details that could have been fleshed out better to allow me to accept them more willingly. Every story has these situations, usually for small plot points, but in this case, they were big. I won’t say more because I don’t want to give the plot away. A second thread spread throughout the story is that Hui seems to be a user. He has no qualms about lying to people, stealing, breaking laws he used to uphold for his own needs. I get that he's from royalty with those sort of preconceptions but it didn't make me like him better which meant I rooted less for his success and wondered at times if I really wanted to travel through the rest of the story with a man I didn't respect. That dropped the rating to 4/5.
But let me be clear: Wilbur Smith is a master of historical fiction for this era. His facts are spot on, details riveting, and pacing unbeatable. Check out this quote:
"Sweat slicked them both, soaking through their kilts and stinging their eyes as the day’s heat licked across the land."
I will definitely read his next story.
When the book ends, Hui is not the same boy who we started this journey with:
"‘You still have city eyes, good for what’s at your feet, but near-useless here,� Fareed said. ‘In the desert you learn to see over great distances. One day you will see a fox run across that peak.�"
"...felt his fear harden into unfamiliar cold anger."
x
"...hard men, used to the privations of the road, made iron-strong by long marches under the hot sun, hearts turned to stone..."
x
"he realized many more equally murderous thoughts he never knew existed were beginning to awaken within him."
His metamorphosis from pampered royalty to charismatic justice fighter is a riveting tale not to be hurried.
A few points gave me pause. The first: I wasn’t always sure why Hui or his loyal friend Farrouk did some of the things they did--details that could have been fleshed out better to allow me to accept them more willingly. Every story has these situations, usually for small plot points, but in this case, they were big. I won’t say more because I don’t want to give the plot away. A second thread spread throughout the story is that Hui seems to be a user. He has no qualms about lying to people, stealing, breaking laws he used to uphold for his own needs. I get that he's from royalty with those sort of preconceptions but it didn't make me like him better which meant I rooted less for his success and wondered at times if I really wanted to travel through the rest of the story with a man I didn't respect. That dropped the rating to 4/5.
But let me be clear: Wilbur Smith is a master of historical fiction for this era. His facts are spot on, details riveting, and pacing unbeatable. Check out this quote:
"Sweat slicked them both, soaking through their kilts and stinging their eyes as the day’s heat licked across the land."
I will definitely read his next story.
August 13, 2021
A great book as far as historical accuracy and research of a certain time period of Egypt. Obviously lots of work went into that and building the foundation of a great adventure. I’ve loved that Egyptian era ever since reading The Egypt Game as a child so this kept my interest.
The story itself is also very thrilling and the main character, Hui, has great depth and character development. I think part of the reason the book is so thrilling is that Hui is constantly in position of potential death but always seems to bounce back. Sometimes that can get a little old to me. Combine that with descriptive incest and it becomes something extremely off putting to me. It could have been a DNF but wanted to see what happened! However, the book is very well written, flows nicely, and is historically based. A thrilling read! I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving a free copy.
TW-
Incest mother/son
The story itself is also very thrilling and the main character, Hui, has great depth and character development. I think part of the reason the book is so thrilling is that Hui is constantly in position of potential death but always seems to bounce back. Sometimes that can get a little old to me. Combine that with descriptive incest and it becomes something extremely off putting to me. It could have been a DNF but wanted to see what happened! However, the book is very well written, flows nicely, and is historically based. A thrilling read! I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving a free copy.
TW-
Incest mother/son
July 31, 2021
DNF at 19%
I really wanted to love this one, but I was wary of it from the beginning. It was a deviation from the genres I typically read, which may have been why this failed so badly. I wasn't invested in it at all, and I found myself reading just to read, not because I was actually enjoying the content.
I think my main problem with this has to be the choppiness. There was no flow in between events, stuff just happened. From the very first page, stuff is happening with very little explanation. I never connected with the plot, and I barely understood what was even happening.
This is a minor spoiler, but considering it was part of the reason I gave up on this, I feel like it has to be mentioned. Around 50 pages in, there's already a detailed incestuous coupling. I didn't care what part this had to play with the rest of the story, it wasn't something I was interested in reading more of.
This was my first book in this series, and considering I couldn't even get through it, I don't think I'll be picking up the rest.
Thanks to BookishFirst for providing a free copy in exchange for an honest review
I really wanted to love this one, but I was wary of it from the beginning. It was a deviation from the genres I typically read, which may have been why this failed so badly. I wasn't invested in it at all, and I found myself reading just to read, not because I was actually enjoying the content.
I think my main problem with this has to be the choppiness. There was no flow in between events, stuff just happened. From the very first page, stuff is happening with very little explanation. I never connected with the plot, and I barely understood what was even happening.
This is a minor spoiler, but considering it was part of the reason I gave up on this, I feel like it has to be mentioned. Around 50 pages in, there's already a detailed incestuous coupling. I didn't care what part this had to play with the rest of the story, it wasn't something I was interested in reading more of.
This was my first book in this series, and considering I couldn't even get through it, I don't think I'll be picking up the rest.
Thanks to BookishFirst for providing a free copy in exchange for an honest review
February 16, 2022
A hollow imitation of a great original.
I originally read and fell in love with River God nearly thirty years ago. Dazzled as I was by the depth of history, the sense of place, the carefully woven tapestry of story and character filling every page.
This has none of that. Instead reeking of cynical, profit-driven, mass production that adds nothing and takes away too much from the legacy of Wilbur Smith.
Don’t do it.
I originally read and fell in love with River God nearly thirty years ago. Dazzled as I was by the depth of history, the sense of place, the carefully woven tapestry of story and character filling every page.
This has none of that. Instead reeking of cynical, profit-driven, mass production that adds nothing and takes away too much from the legacy of Wilbur Smith.
Don’t do it.
November 14, 2021
Un viaggio finisce e uno comincia.
Il maestro, il re dell’avventura, ci mancherà tanto.
Per fortuna, avremo sempre i suoi libri.
Il maestro, il re dell’avventura, ci mancherà tanto.
Per fortuna, avremo sempre i suoi libri.
July 12, 2023
ঢেউয়ে ভেসে এল� লাশট�; মর� মাছে� মত� ফ্যাকাসে হয়ে ফুলে আছে। সাদা চোখট� মেলে আছ� নী� আকাশের দিকে� গর� বাতাসে ভাসত� থাকা তীব্� গন্ধটা টে� পেতে শুরু করেছ� হুই। পরিষ্কার দেখা যাচ্ছে যে একজন মিশরীয় সৈনিকে� লা�, কিল্টে লায়� রক্ষীদে� প্রতী� অঙ্কিত� উপরে� আকাশ� ভিড় কর� আছ� চিলে� দল, ঘন ঘন পা� দিয়� উড়ে যাচ্ছে আর গা শিউরান� আওয়াজ কর� ডেকে উঠছে থেকে থেকে� চিলগুলোক� দেখে বোঝা যাচ্ছে শুধু এই বেচারা� তাদে� একমাত্� ভো� না, মন� হচ্ছ� হাজা� হাজা� সৈন্যে� পঁচাগল� লাশে� শাহী ভো� আসতে চলেছ� তাদে� জন্য।�
উপরে� ঘটনা� প্রত্যক্ষদর্শী হুইয়ে� কথ� কি আপনাদে� মন� আছ�? যারা রিভারগ� বইটি পড়েছিলে� তারা একবা� মন� কর� দেখু�, হু� সে� শ্রাইক দস্য� ছেলেটা যে ব্লু ক্রোকোডাইলসে� অধিনায়ক ট্যানাসে� কাছে ধর� পড়ে পরবর্তীতে ঘোড়ার সহিস হয়েছিল। আম� যে ঘটনা� কথ� বলছি তখ� উত্তরদিক থেকে ভুয়� ফারা� রে� প্রিটেন্ডারে� আর্ম� আসছে, অমানবি� দস্যুর দল শ্রাইকরা তান্ডব চালাচ্ছে মিশরজুড়� আর সব শেষে মিশরের ভাগ্যে মরণঘাতী আঘাত দিতে আসছে রথবাহী সুশৃংখ�,দুর্ধর্ষ হিকসোস সেনাবাহিনী� সময়ের হিসা� করলে দ্� নি� কিংডমে� মূ� ঘটনা শুরু হয়েছে রেডপ্রিটেন্ডারের আগমনের সময়ে। এই ভুয়� ফারাওয়ে� উৎপত্ত� লোয়ার কিংডমে� মিশরের সেনাবাহিনী একদিকে শ্রাইক দস্যুদের মূলোৎপাট� করার চেষ্টা চালিয়� যাচ্ছি�, অন্যদিকে তারা লোয়ার কিংডমে� এই ভুয়� ফারা� এর সাথে যুদ্ধে� প্রস্তুত� নিচ্ছিল। এখান� মড়া� উপ� খাড়ার ঘা� মত হিকসোস সেনাবাহিনী এস� হাজি� হয়। দ্� নি� কিংড� উপন্যাসট� রিভারগডে� সমসাময়ি� ঘটনা� কিছু অংশে� সাথে প্যারালালি এগিয়েছে� তব� এই বইটা পড়া� জন্য অ্যানসিয়েন্� ইজিপ্ট সিরিজে� আগের কোনো বই না পড়লেও হবে।
কাহিনি শুরু হয়েছে হু� (Hui), তা� বন্ধ� কাইকাই (kyky) এব� ভা� কোয়েন (Qen) মিলে কা-স্টো� চুরি করার মধ্য দিয়ে। সৎ মা আইসেনফ্রেতের (Ipsetnofret) চক্রান্তের শিকা� হয়ে এক সময় কা-স্টো� হারানো থেকে� শুরু কর� নিজে� জীবন� সবচেয়� বড� বিপর্যয় নেমে আস� হুইয়ের। কোনক্রমে নি� শহ� লাহু� থেকে পালিয়� আস� সে� ঐদিন হু� বুঝত� শুরু কর� ওর জীবন শূন্� নয�, ওর জীবনের একটা লক্ষ্য আছে। সেটা অর্জনে� জন্য � মুক্� হয়েছে, পরিণ� হয়েছে একজন হাবিরুতে(ফেরারি)� দেবতাদের ইচ্ছায� সে যে নতুন জীবন পেয়েছ� তা� একটা� উদ্দেশ্য ছি� প্রতিশোধের স্পৃহা, অপশক্তির বিরুদ্ধে রুখে দাঁড়ানো� এভাবেই এক কালে� প্রভাবশালী পরিবারের সন্তান হু� নিঃস্ব � একাকী অবস্থায় তা� জীবন সংগ্রা� শুরু কর� পরবর্তীতে একজন পরিণ� মানু� হিসেবে গড়ে উঠার কাহিনি নিয়� দ্� নি� কিংড� উপন্যা� নী� নদের স্রোতে� মত তর তর কর� এগিয়েছে।�
হুইয়ে� জীবনের বাঁকবদলে একের পর এক হিকসোস, শ্রাইক দস্যুর দল এব� পরবর্তীতে মিশরের সেনাবাহিনী� সাথে তা� সম্পৃক্ততা পাওয়া যায়� মানইজ্জত বিসর্জ� দিয়� বেঁচ� থাকা� তাগিদে এব� নি� স্বার্থে প্রত্যেকটা দলের কা� থেকে প্রশিক্ষণপ্রাপ্ত হয� � তাদে� বিভিন্� কায়দা কানু� শিখে নেয়� এক� সম্পূর্ণ বিরূ� পরিবেশ টিকে থেকে হিকসোসদে� কাছে রথ চালানো, নৌযুদ্ধে জাহা� পরিচালনা করার মত চমৎকার সব ঘটনা� ভিতর� দেখত� পাবে� হুইকে। সৎবো� আইপওয়েট (Ipwet) � হুইয়ে� পরস্পরের প্রত� নিখা� ভালবাস� � টা� পাঠক মনকে ভা� কর� দিতে বাধ্য। সৎ মা � সৎ ভাইয়ে� কাছে প্রতারিত হবার পর� তা� মধ্য� যে খুনে মানসিকতা আসেন� সেটা হুইয়ে� দূর্বলতা� বদলে তাকে শক্ত মানসিকতা � হৃদয়বান হিসেবে গড়ে উঠতে সাহায্� করেছে। অবশ্� এই ঘটনাগুলো� এক সময়ের ভীতু নর� শর� একটা ছেলে যে কিনা রক্ত কিংব� সহিংসত� কখনো� পছন্� কর� না; তাকে পরবর্তীতে দুর্ধর্ষ সৈনিকে পরিণ� করে। ট্যানা� � টাইটাক� খু� বেশি সময়ের জন্য দেখা যাবে না� বইয়ের আরেকটি চরিত্র ফরিদকে এখান� কাহিনি� প্রয়োজন� ভালভাব� উপস্থাপন কর� হয়েছে� খায়ান � বাস্তি চরিত্র দুটি� বিল্ডআপও ভা� ছিল। সিরিজে� পরবর্তী বইগুলোতে ফরিদ � খায়ান চরিত্র দুটো বড� ভূমিকায় থাকব� সেটা সহজে� আন্দাজ কর� যায়�
সুদীর্� ঘটনা এব� পূর্বে� কর� অত� জঘন্� অনুবাদগুলো� জন্য যারা উইলবার স্মিথে� এর বই পড়ে মজ� পানন�, হুইয়ে� জার্নিটা আপনাদে� ভালো লাগব� কারণ বইটা অ্যানসিয়েন্� ইজিপ্ট সিরিজে� অন্য বইয়ের মত স্লো বার্� নয়। বর� একটা� পর একটা ঘটনায় চমৎকার অনুবাদ� কাহিনি রোলারকোস্টারের মত টেনেছে� এই বিষয়ট� ভালো লাগলেও এখান� উইলবার স্মিথে� সিগনেচার লেখনশৈলী অর্থাৎ ৪০০০ বছরে� পুরন� মিশরীয় সভ্যতা� বর্ণনা, সে� সময়ের ঘটনা� ভাবগাম্ভীর্� এব� ভাষা� আভিজাত্য অনেকাংশে 'দ্� নি� কিংডমে' মিসি� ছিল। বইয়ের কয়ে� জায়গায় ১৮+ ঘটনা আছ� এব� সেটা পড়ায় খু� বেশি সমস্যা হব� না� দ্� কোয়েস্ট� এর চেয়� বেশি রগরগ� বর্ণনা ছিল। বহুদিন পর উইলবার স্মিথে� আর� একটা বই পড়ে ভা� লাগা আর বিষন্নতা এক� সাথে কা� করেছ� কারন চ্যাডবর্� সিরিজট� চালিয়� গেলে� স্মিথে� লেখা আর পাবো না।�
দ্� নি� কিংডমে� ঘটনা� এক পর্যায়ে দেখত� পাবে� এক ডাইনির ষড়যন্ত্রে লাশে� স্তু� আর বিধ্বস্ত নগরীতে মানুষে� হাহাকা�,হিকসোসদে� তান্ডব� পুরো মিশর যখ� কাঁপছে, তখ� নীলে� বু� চিরে এগিয়ে আসছে মিশরীয়দে� বিশা� নৌবহর। যুদ্ধে� দামামা বাজিয়� সব জাহাজে� সামন� দাঁড়িয়� আছ� নৌবহরে� কাপ্তান…�
উপরে� ঘটনা� প্রত্যক্ষদর্শী হুইয়ে� কথ� কি আপনাদে� মন� আছ�? যারা রিভারগ� বইটি পড়েছিলে� তারা একবা� মন� কর� দেখু�, হু� সে� শ্রাইক দস্য� ছেলেটা যে ব্লু ক্রোকোডাইলসে� অধিনায়ক ট্যানাসে� কাছে ধর� পড়ে পরবর্তীতে ঘোড়ার সহিস হয়েছিল। আম� যে ঘটনা� কথ� বলছি তখ� উত্তরদিক থেকে ভুয়� ফারা� রে� প্রিটেন্ডারে� আর্ম� আসছে, অমানবি� দস্যুর দল শ্রাইকরা তান্ডব চালাচ্ছে মিশরজুড়� আর সব শেষে মিশরের ভাগ্যে মরণঘাতী আঘাত দিতে আসছে রথবাহী সুশৃংখ�,দুর্ধর্ষ হিকসোস সেনাবাহিনী� সময়ের হিসা� করলে দ্� নি� কিংডমে� মূ� ঘটনা শুরু হয়েছে রেডপ্রিটেন্ডারের আগমনের সময়ে। এই ভুয়� ফারাওয়ে� উৎপত্ত� লোয়ার কিংডমে� মিশরের সেনাবাহিনী একদিকে শ্রাইক দস্যুদের মূলোৎপাট� করার চেষ্টা চালিয়� যাচ্ছি�, অন্যদিকে তারা লোয়ার কিংডমে� এই ভুয়� ফারা� এর সাথে যুদ্ধে� প্রস্তুত� নিচ্ছিল। এখান� মড়া� উপ� খাড়ার ঘা� মত হিকসোস সেনাবাহিনী এস� হাজি� হয়। দ্� নি� কিংড� উপন্যাসট� রিভারগডে� সমসাময়ি� ঘটনা� কিছু অংশে� সাথে প্যারালালি এগিয়েছে� তব� এই বইটা পড়া� জন্য অ্যানসিয়েন্� ইজিপ্ট সিরিজে� আগের কোনো বই না পড়লেও হবে।
কাহিনি শুরু হয়েছে হু� (Hui), তা� বন্ধ� কাইকাই (kyky) এব� ভা� কোয়েন (Qen) মিলে কা-স্টো� চুরি করার মধ্য দিয়ে। সৎ মা আইসেনফ্রেতের (Ipsetnofret) চক্রান্তের শিকা� হয়ে এক সময় কা-স্টো� হারানো থেকে� শুরু কর� নিজে� জীবন� সবচেয়� বড� বিপর্যয় নেমে আস� হুইয়ের। কোনক্রমে নি� শহ� লাহু� থেকে পালিয়� আস� সে� ঐদিন হু� বুঝত� শুরু কর� ওর জীবন শূন্� নয�, ওর জীবনের একটা লক্ষ্য আছে। সেটা অর্জনে� জন্য � মুক্� হয়েছে, পরিণ� হয়েছে একজন হাবিরুতে(ফেরারি)� দেবতাদের ইচ্ছায� সে যে নতুন জীবন পেয়েছ� তা� একটা� উদ্দেশ্য ছি� প্রতিশোধের স্পৃহা, অপশক্তির বিরুদ্ধে রুখে দাঁড়ানো� এভাবেই এক কালে� প্রভাবশালী পরিবারের সন্তান হু� নিঃস্ব � একাকী অবস্থায় তা� জীবন সংগ্রা� শুরু কর� পরবর্তীতে একজন পরিণ� মানু� হিসেবে গড়ে উঠার কাহিনি নিয়� দ্� নি� কিংড� উপন্যা� নী� নদের স্রোতে� মত তর তর কর� এগিয়েছে।�
হুইয়ে� জীবনের বাঁকবদলে একের পর এক হিকসোস, শ্রাইক দস্যুর দল এব� পরবর্তীতে মিশরের সেনাবাহিনী� সাথে তা� সম্পৃক্ততা পাওয়া যায়� মানইজ্জত বিসর্জ� দিয়� বেঁচ� থাকা� তাগিদে এব� নি� স্বার্থে প্রত্যেকটা দলের কা� থেকে প্রশিক্ষণপ্রাপ্ত হয� � তাদে� বিভিন্� কায়দা কানু� শিখে নেয়� এক� সম্পূর্ণ বিরূ� পরিবেশ টিকে থেকে হিকসোসদে� কাছে রথ চালানো, নৌযুদ্ধে জাহা� পরিচালনা করার মত চমৎকার সব ঘটনা� ভিতর� দেখত� পাবে� হুইকে। সৎবো� আইপওয়েট (Ipwet) � হুইয়ে� পরস্পরের প্রত� নিখা� ভালবাস� � টা� পাঠক মনকে ভা� কর� দিতে বাধ্য। সৎ মা � সৎ ভাইয়ে� কাছে প্রতারিত হবার পর� তা� মধ্য� যে খুনে মানসিকতা আসেন� সেটা হুইয়ে� দূর্বলতা� বদলে তাকে শক্ত মানসিকতা � হৃদয়বান হিসেবে গড়ে উঠতে সাহায্� করেছে। অবশ্� এই ঘটনাগুলো� এক সময়ের ভীতু নর� শর� একটা ছেলে যে কিনা রক্ত কিংব� সহিংসত� কখনো� পছন্� কর� না; তাকে পরবর্তীতে দুর্ধর্ষ সৈনিকে পরিণ� করে। ট্যানা� � টাইটাক� খু� বেশি সময়ের জন্য দেখা যাবে না� বইয়ের আরেকটি চরিত্র ফরিদকে এখান� কাহিনি� প্রয়োজন� ভালভাব� উপস্থাপন কর� হয়েছে� খায়ান � বাস্তি চরিত্র দুটি� বিল্ডআপও ভা� ছিল। সিরিজে� পরবর্তী বইগুলোতে ফরিদ � খায়ান চরিত্র দুটো বড� ভূমিকায় থাকব� সেটা সহজে� আন্দাজ কর� যায়�
সুদীর্� ঘটনা এব� পূর্বে� কর� অত� জঘন্� অনুবাদগুলো� জন্য যারা উইলবার স্মিথে� এর বই পড়ে মজ� পানন�, হুইয়ে� জার্নিটা আপনাদে� ভালো লাগব� কারণ বইটা অ্যানসিয়েন্� ইজিপ্ট সিরিজে� অন্য বইয়ের মত স্লো বার্� নয়। বর� একটা� পর একটা ঘটনায় চমৎকার অনুবাদ� কাহিনি রোলারকোস্টারের মত টেনেছে� এই বিষয়ট� ভালো লাগলেও এখান� উইলবার স্মিথে� সিগনেচার লেখনশৈলী অর্থাৎ ৪০০০ বছরে� পুরন� মিশরীয় সভ্যতা� বর্ণনা, সে� সময়ের ঘটনা� ভাবগাম্ভীর্� এব� ভাষা� আভিজাত্য অনেকাংশে 'দ্� নি� কিংডমে' মিসি� ছিল। বইয়ের কয়ে� জায়গায় ১৮+ ঘটনা আছ� এব� সেটা পড়ায় খু� বেশি সমস্যা হব� না� দ্� কোয়েস্ট� এর চেয়� বেশি রগরগ� বর্ণনা ছিল। বহুদিন পর উইলবার স্মিথে� আর� একটা বই পড়ে ভা� লাগা আর বিষন্নতা এক� সাথে কা� করেছ� কারন চ্যাডবর্� সিরিজট� চালিয়� গেলে� স্মিথে� লেখা আর পাবো না।�
দ্� নি� কিংডমে� ঘটনা� এক পর্যায়ে দেখত� পাবে� এক ডাইনির ষড়যন্ত্রে লাশে� স্তু� আর বিধ্বস্ত নগরীতে মানুষে� হাহাকা�,হিকসোসদে� তান্ডব� পুরো মিশর যখ� কাঁপছে, তখ� নীলে� বু� চিরে এগিয়ে আসছে মিশরীয়দে� বিশা� নৌবহর। যুদ্ধে� দামামা বাজিয়� সব জাহাজে� সামন� দাঁড়িয়� আছ� নৌবহরে� কাপ্তান…�
August 23, 2021
So this book sounded like something that would be really fun and interesting. I love learning about ancient Egypt and the first few chapters grabbed my attention. From there things went down hill for me. Our main character, Hui, is so beyond clueless. We start off with him hatching a plot to steal the kaa stone, a magical stone that will bring whoever owns it wealth and power. Things go south, of course and his brother Qen, ends up throwing their other friend to an angry horde of bandits to save his own ass. They get away with the stone though and bring it home to their father who plans to give it to the Pharoah, who will in turn showed their town with wealth. Hui also witnesses a disturbing ritual between Qen and his stepmother.. that gives him big creepy vibes. It becomes obvious that his brother and step mother are no good, but Hui is too dumb to realize it until its much too late and they have murdered his father and framed him for the murder. Hui becomes an outlaw on the run and must learn to survive on his own.
The plot was good, it's the style of writing that I didn't like. There was so much action but the writing style and the dialogue between the characters was so monotone that it was kindof boring. I also felt that the characters had no voice or personality, it was hard to follow who was saying what because they all sounded the same. So while I'm sure some people will love this story, it just wasn't my cup of tea.
The plot was good, it's the style of writing that I didn't like. There was so much action but the writing style and the dialogue between the characters was so monotone that it was kindof boring. I also felt that the characters had no voice or personality, it was hard to follow who was saying what because they all sounded the same. So while I'm sure some people will love this story, it just wasn't my cup of tea.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 26, 2022
It has been a while since I read anything by Wilbur Smith. I got bored of his transposing members of the Courtney family into various points of history with sultry women, muscular, bronzed men and improbable plot lines. River God (1993) was excellent and captivating. So here we are, thirty years later, rehashing history sufficiently ancient that nobody knows what is true and what isn't. The Shrike and the Hyksos are back again and our hero, victim of a wicked step-mothers machinations straight out of Grimm's Fairy Tales, is forced out of his opulent life-style into the rugged and unforgiving desert where he becomes a man under the tutelage of a caravan driver. Be warned this book is the first in what will almost certainly be a trilogy - these things always do.
This book has to be seen as Smith's swansong - he died later the same year. This book is co-authored by Mark Chadbourn (prolific but often pseudonymous) and it is clear that there has been a battle of styles. I do not remember anything that Smith wrote as being quite so humourless. The descriptions of ancient civilisations have a dryness that would not be out of place in an earnest travelogue. All life, as it was then, is invested on the pages and I am sure that the sources are impeccable but disinteresting. There is so much, in fact, that you can miss the action and even the storyline. At the end of the book there was a sense that was not enthralling enough to want to read the next one.
This book has to be seen as Smith's swansong - he died later the same year. This book is co-authored by Mark Chadbourn (prolific but often pseudonymous) and it is clear that there has been a battle of styles. I do not remember anything that Smith wrote as being quite so humourless. The descriptions of ancient civilisations have a dryness that would not be out of place in an earnest travelogue. All life, as it was then, is invested on the pages and I am sure that the sources are impeccable but disinteresting. There is so much, in fact, that you can miss the action and even the storyline. At the end of the book there was a sense that was not enthralling enough to want to read the next one.
February 13, 2022
The New Kingdom takes us back to the times of Taita and Ancient Egypt. In this new series we get to know Hui’s story, the young bandits who becomes the Pharaoh’s best cheroteer. Hui’s story runs parallel to the original series, so now we see the events unfold not from Taita’s but from Hui’s point of view. Hui’s story is just as fascinating, jus as captivating as Taita’s was. It is a testament to the magic of the writing that this first book of the series was read in practically one sitting. One can get totally lost in the words, lost within the pages, lost to the times where cruely and death were common, where kindess of men was rare, where good men lived through tremendous hardships to protect their own.
Hui is immediately likeable, his naïvity endearing, his growth in character mesmerising. The good, the bad and the ugly can all be found here, mixed with sorcery, dark magic, poisons, visions and sacrifices. Hui’s quest to right the wrongs, his clever was to survive keeps us glued.
Wilbur Smith was one of the original storytellers whose bookes defined the times. I’m so so glad that he has ventured back into the stories he knows best to give us his last series. I cannot wait to read the following instalments.
A truly magnificent read.
Hui is immediately likeable, his naïvity endearing, his growth in character mesmerising. The good, the bad and the ugly can all be found here, mixed with sorcery, dark magic, poisons, visions and sacrifices. Hui’s quest to right the wrongs, his clever was to survive keeps us glued.
Wilbur Smith was one of the original storytellers whose bookes defined the times. I’m so so glad that he has ventured back into the stories he knows best to give us his last series. I cannot wait to read the following instalments.
A truly magnificent read.
September 21, 2021
I read the first two books Wilbur Smith's first Egyptian series many years ago and enjoyed them. The New Kingdom is the origin story of Hui, a side character in the main series. Hui is the privileged son of the governor of the city of Luhan in Ancient Egypt. After a power struggle in which his stepmother and brother seize control of the city, Hui flees as a fugitive and must live by his wits to survive. He is captured by, and lives among, bands of bandits and outlaws, acquiring skills and strength along the way. He eventually becomes a respected soldier in the Egyptian army but his overarching goal is revenge against his stepmother. I enjoyed the details about life, culture and religion in Ancient Egypt, which I've always found fascinating. The New Kingdom was evidently well-researched. There could have been more character development, especially with the two female characters Ipwet and Ahura. There was so much potential for these women. The action and adventure are non-stop and the book compelling, enjoyable, and hard to put down.
September 17, 2021
The New Kingdom is a historical fiction novel set in Ancient Egypt. The story follows Hui, the favored son of an Egyptian Official. Hui, along with best friend KyKy and brother Qen, set off to steal the Ka Stone, a stone rumored to have mystical properties. Hui feels the stone will bring them fortune and fame.
Things take a very wrong turn when they are caught in the Shrikes camp (a blood thirsty army of bandits) and Qen sacrifices Kyky's life to save his own. As the two brothers escape with the stone Hui knows things between them will never be the same.
On return to the city Hui quickly discovers the jealousy and hatred felt by his brother. Hui's father is murdered and Hui is accused and condemned to death with the help of evidence brought forth by his own brother.
Hui escapes his imprisonment and sets out to avenge his father's death.
I enjoyed this story enough to keep reading to the end. However historical fiction is not my genre by any means. This was a good story and good writing but it did feel drawn out and a bit redundant. That being said, I know historical fiction readers will love the story so I can comfortably give it 3 stars.
Btw, I read this book without knowing it's part of a series. Easily can be read as a standalone although it feels like there will be a sequel.
Things take a very wrong turn when they are caught in the Shrikes camp (a blood thirsty army of bandits) and Qen sacrifices Kyky's life to save his own. As the two brothers escape with the stone Hui knows things between them will never be the same.
On return to the city Hui quickly discovers the jealousy and hatred felt by his brother. Hui's father is murdered and Hui is accused and condemned to death with the help of evidence brought forth by his own brother.
Hui escapes his imprisonment and sets out to avenge his father's death.
I enjoyed this story enough to keep reading to the end. However historical fiction is not my genre by any means. This was a good story and good writing but it did feel drawn out and a bit redundant. That being said, I know historical fiction readers will love the story so I can comfortably give it 3 stars.
Btw, I read this book without knowing it's part of a series. Easily can be read as a standalone although it feels like there will be a sequel.
September 18, 2021
I didn't read any Wilbur Smith's book set in Ancient Egypt and this was my first one.
I thoroughly enjoyed it as it's a gripping and highly entertaining story, a page turner that kept me reading.
Mr Smith is a master storyteller and the plot flows without any hiccup or dragging.
The historical background is vivid and well researched, the characters fleshed out and lively.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
I thoroughly enjoyed it as it's a gripping and highly entertaining story, a page turner that kept me reading.
Mr Smith is a master storyteller and the plot flows without any hiccup or dragging.
The historical background is vivid and well researched, the characters fleshed out and lively.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
November 14, 2021
Ancient Egypt comes alive under the masterful words of Wilbur Smith. He leaves behind a legacy which will be remembered for ages.
This book can be read as a standalone, and while there are cross references to the charcters of the series it does not complicate or create confusion in this story.
Recommended read
This book can be read as a standalone, and while there are cross references to the charcters of the series it does not complicate or create confusion in this story.
Recommended read
April 28, 2022
I absolutely adored the first six books in the Ancient Egypt series. So when I heard of a seventh addition, I was so excited that I preordered.
It's very easy reading. It's a good story with believable characterisations. However, I feel it is missing 'the spark' that ran through the previous books. Now, whether this is because the story is not always set in Egypt, or because of the addition of a co-author, I don't know. It just feels a wee bit different. But please, don't let that put you off reading this adventure. You'll be gripped from the start and turning the pages like Billy Whizz on speed. Roll on book #8!
It's very easy reading. It's a good story with believable characterisations. However, I feel it is missing 'the spark' that ran through the previous books. Now, whether this is because the story is not always set in Egypt, or because of the addition of a co-author, I don't know. It just feels a wee bit different. But please, don't let that put you off reading this adventure. You'll be gripped from the start and turning the pages like Billy Whizz on speed. Roll on book #8!
April 21, 2022
I can’t get enough of Wilbur Smiths Egyptian series. Started reading them years ago, encouraged by my Dad who has read all his books. I love reading about Taita and the adventures in Egypt. Wasn’t disappointed, couldn’t put it down. Catapulted into another world of adventure.
August 29, 2022
libro avvincente, interessante e ben scritto come tutti i libri di wilbur smith
September 2, 2021
In the city of Lahun, Hui lives an enchanted life. The favoured son of a doting father, and ruler-in-waiting of the great city, his fate is set. But behind the beautiful façades a sinister evil is plotting. Craving power and embittered by jealousy, Hui's stepmother, the great sorceress Isetnofret, and Hui's own brother Qen, orchestrate the downfall of Hui's father, condemning Hui and seizing power in the city. Cast out and alone, Hui finds himself a captive of a skilled and powerful army of outlaws, the Hyksos. Determined to seek vengeance for the death of his father and rescue his sister, Ipwet, Hui swears his allegiance to these enemies of Egypt. Through them he learns the art of war, learning how to fight and becoming an envied charioteer. But soon Hui finds himself in an even greater battle - one for the very heart of Egypt itself. As the pieces fall into place and the Gods themselves join the fray, Hui finds himself fighting alongside the Egyptian General Tanus and renowned Mage, Taita.
Another well written page turner from the author. Once again I was carried way to Ancient Egypt & once again once I’d started the book I couldn’t put it down. Wonderful characters, some new & some old friends, a story that starts at a fast pace, it drew me in from start to finish. Another winner
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Another well written page turner from the author. Once again I was carried way to Ancient Egypt & once again once I’d started the book I couldn’t put it down. Wonderful characters, some new & some old friends, a story that starts at a fast pace, it drew me in from start to finish. Another winner
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
August 31, 2021
In the beginning of this book I was grabbed hook line and sinker. All the talk of ancient Egypt, the Egyptian mythology; it all had me super hyped and pumped to continue reading.
But as the story went on it kind of lost interest as the main character seems to be lacking.
The overall plot is very good and the plot alone had me reading on to find out what happens. But, there was not one character I found myself relating to or at the very least finding likable.
This authors writing style seemed to go in too many different directions and making it hard to really want to remain focused.
I am very certain that many will absolutely love this book. And I give it an overall 3.5 which is not bad on my rating scale. But, the prose really left me wanting more. I would have also loved more Egyptian mythology throughout.
Overall the book was just okay. Not bad in any real sense, just not my cuppa if you know what I mean. I do hope those who find this style enjoyable find this book and follow everything the author does. As the author is quite a talented story teller.
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