The Walls of Byzantium
Ratings1
Average rating3
15
Ratings1
Average rating3
This sweeping historical novel is shaped by the quest for a mysterious relic, guarded through generations, and by one man that might yet save the threatened Byzantine empire. In an age of clashing empires, dark forces from the east are endangering the first light of the western Renaissance. It is an age of ruthless rulers, divided churches, fractured dynasties and intrepid traders. It is an age of great cities like Venice and Constantinople; an age of conquerors like Tamerlane who will drown the world in blood; an age when only a hero of exceptional gifts can make a difference. Luke Magoris is that hero. Born the son of one of the Varangian guards who had sworn to keep the secret relic safe, he will find himself committed to a long journey to discover - and try to avoid - his destiny. He will travel from battle to trading fortune, from horse dealing to captivity, and to the love of three very different women and the unrelenting enmity of two remarkable men. The Walls of Byzantium is the first of a series that will leave you impatient and longing for the next.
Featured Series
1 primary bookThe Mistra Chronicles is a 1-book series first released in 2013 with contributions by James Heneage.
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I really enjoyed parts of this book. There were some excellently descriptive narrative and the setting was intriguing, exploring the Island of Chios and the history of mastic. Unfortunately though, this was not enough to hold the whole novel together. There were too many characters introduced too quickly which meant that it was difficult to get to know them and understand their motivation, leading to a plot that, although not over complicated, was ultimately quite confusing. The last ¼ of the book was clearly just setting up for the sequel and the repetitive use of the short punchy sentences intended to add emphasis very quickly became annoying.
Annoying.
Overall, disappointing.
