A Worthy Continuation

One wonders if this was a planned duology - or is there a third book in the offing? This book carries on where the first installment ended - relating the war between Rome and Macedon - but doesn’t really introduce anything "new". Ben Kane continues a well-researched character-driven tale with notable historical accuracy, but this book's utility as a standalone is dubious: if you don't know the characters from the first novel, you will be quickly lost. At the same time, the events here don't really seem to bring any story threads to a conclusion - the saga just builds. It doesn't end with a cliffhanger or anything, but further exposition is teased. This second novel resolves little.
Fortunately, the storytelling is unparalleled. Kane effortlessly weaves twists into what plot does exist (including political maneuvering, duplicity, and military diplomacy). This captivating set of imaginative events - paired with pulse-pounding action sequences - breathes life into Classical warfare. Kane's talented accounting is worth reading. The first novel was brilliantly conceived and introduced relatable characters at all levels of power. This one, however, drops the baton somewhat -  although Kane submits an uncommonly courageous ending.

Steven Pacey again turns in a "decent" performance without any legitimately outstanding features. The emotion and pacing are excellent and Pacey is clearly interested as he reads the text, but the chosen accents are nonsensical (strong Scottish and Yorkshire accents for Greeks and Romans). Additionally, for some reason he gives cartoonish lisps to some characters.

If you elect to read this offering (despite the drawbacks, this *is* an entertaining book -  well worth the effort), read 'Clash Of Empires' first. Altogether, this second installment of an immersive narrative is told with skill and clever plot devices, and even though it doesn't quite live up to the promise of the first book, it's an exceptionally good read. This is a solid 8 star out of 10 novel.

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