Egypt is split into
two parts following the defeat of the Egyptians by the Hyskos. The
Egyptians have the lower half of the country, but there are
limitations. They have no access to the Mediterranean for trade or
defense. Taita, a counselor to Pharaoh, dreams of reclaiming the
northern half of the country, but for that they need allies. He
conceives a plan whereby they can destroy the accord between the
Hyskos and their Cretans allies and make the Cretans, who have a
substantial navy, allies of lower Egypt.
The book starts with
military adventures, but there is also romance involving the young
Egyptian princesses Taita brought up. The scenes of ancient Egypt and
Crete are beautifully described. Smith has a way of transporting you
to an ancient land and making you feel part of the action.
Taita is a
fascinating character. He is not at all shy about claiming his
prowess in inventing all manner of things, planning military
campaigns, and acting as a primary counselor to Pharaoh. The
princesses are young and rather insipid. The romance, primarily
youthful infatuation, works in the novel, but if you're looking for
serious romance this doesn't make it.
The book long
and
primarily made
up of journeys.
After
the first third, I found them rather tedious.
However,
if
you like
stories of Ancient Egypt with a good dose if military action, you may
enjoy this book.
I
reviewed
this book for the Amazon Vine Program.
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