I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The setting was well-researched, the descriptions were imaginative, and I was greatly interested in the character's fate.The best aspect, though, was the action. The action in this book comes frequently and unflinchingly, and in a wide variety: individual duels, prison tortures, street brawls, small skirmishes, large scale battles. This book has all the sword-and-shield fighting one could want, and it never felt stale or repetitive. Another thing I appreciated is Oden established early that any and all characters could die at any time. Several characters that I thought were just about to become important were slaughtered without lead-up. Sometimes, this can come off as annoying, but in this book I liked it because it kept me on my toes as a reader.Not a perfect book, no, but very enjoyable.
It is 526 B.C. and the Egyptian Empire is under attack not only from foreign Persian aggressors, but from treachery within its own borders as well. When Hasdrubal Barca, a mercenary in service to the pharaoh, learns of a treasonous plot, he uses his years of military experience and expertise in an attempt to save Egypt from invasion. Political strife, riveting battle scenes, haunting regrets, betrayal, love and revenge…this historical fiction encompasses them all. The battle scenes were so well depicted that I could see the action unfolding in my mind. There are a lot of characters so it would be wise to make note of the names and relations they have with one another (I found myself constantly flipping back trying to figure out who was who). Other than that, it was an enjoyable read.
What do You think about Men Of Bronze (2006)?
I was sucked into this book the very first time I opened it. I just couldn't put it down! The first paragraph paints such a beautiful and vivid picture. It was clear to me that Scott Oden did a lot of research for this book. I've owned two copies of this book, because I lend it to anyone who asks me if I have any good reading suggestions. This is always at the top of my list. I love how there is something for every mood, in this book. There is action, history, romance... everything one could want! I enjoyed the way the Medjai were described as such elite warriors.
—Matt
