The Sun at Twilight
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- $5.99
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- $5.99
Publisher Description
In the twilight years of the Hittite Empire (1230s BC), Tudhaliya IV comes to the throne as a usurper's younger son, determined to rule according to the traditional values of justice and clemency, despite the harder advice of his ambitious mother and his questionably loyal older brothers. When his cousin Kurunta, with whom he was raised as someone dearer than a brother, decides his own claim to the throne is stronger than Tudhaliya's, the latter must decide whether to apply the brutal pragmatism of his advisors or risk appearing weak, and how to manage to leave his own son an empire that is finally free from civil war. The cost will be the sacrifice of his deepest friendship.
Customer Reviews
Wonderful Historical Fiction Novel!
Ms. Holmes has the credentials that allow her to write fantastic historical fiction books by having the experience and knowledge to incorporate accurate information into her stories. I believe the lifestyles, surroundings, and political situations are portrayed as accurately as possible. The story itself is fictionalized.
Ms. Holmes creates strong characters who never seem to act out of character. King Tudhaliya IV comes to the throne at a time when he struggles to keep the Empire intact. This is even harder to do as he always tries to do the right and just thing even when it might not be the thing that will help revive the Empire. He believes in delivering mercy and justice when adjudicating. He is always true to his beliefs even when he would desire a different outcome. At times my heart would nearly break for him as he strove through the trials that assailed him.
This was a well written story that really gives a view of the twilight period of the Hittite Empire. I really enjoyed this story as it gave me some education in this little known historical period. That is one of the things I look for when reading historical fiction.
This is the fourth story in the Empire at Twilight series. The story can stand alone but I think a more complete reading experience would likely be gained by reading them all in order. I do not know if this is the final book in the series, but if so I found it to be a satisfying ending.
I received a review copy of this book for which I am voluntarily giving my honest opinion in this review
Another masterpiece
Holmes is an extremely gifted author. Her attention to detail is so superior that the reader cannot help but wonder if they have not in fact time traveler. The imagery and setting are so vivid it is sometimes difficult not to feel completely immersed. I have always been fascinated by ancient Egypt and love this exploration of a time and place that has always seemed so rich in history so different from my own. Another masterpiece.