The Lightning Horse (Empire at Twilight Book 1)

I wanted to capture some thoughts at the 25% completion mark and offer them for what they’re worth (no spoilers). I have read Holmes’s Lord Hani Mysteries and so wanted to try her Hatti books. I found the first book in the series to be almost written in a different voice than the Hani books. At the 25% mark I looked up when the Hatti books were written compared to the Hani books, since I was certain that the Hatti books were written earlier, because the writing seems less mature/does not seem as accomplished, i.e., perhaps a writer finding her voice. But I was surprised to find that both series were written (or at least published) in roughly the same 2020-2021 period (perhaps the Hatti stories were written earlier, and just published later). The attraction of the Hani books was the characters, especially Lord Hani himself—they are very approachable, you feel as if you know them, and you care what happens to them. I haven’t experienced the same feeling about the characters in the first Hatti book (perhaps that will change as I read further). Also interesting enough to remark about was the volume of sexual references in the first Hatti book (e.g., Tapala-Tarhunta’s “orgasmic release” upon driving a chariot; a few pages later, Tiwatipara’s weeping with the “bone-deep easing of an ejaculation”). And note that these are not sexual experiences, but rather descriptions of emotional reactions in sexual terms. This type of writing was absent from the Hani books. I don’t find these references objectionable, but rather they seem out-of-place/gratuitous. Are they there because the target audience for the book is 17-year-old boys? We’ll see what the remainder of the first Hatti book offers . . . .

If you love ancient history brought to life, this book is for you. Set around the same time that Homer (or poets known by that name) sang his great epics of war, this novel bring the high culture of the ancient Hittite empire of present-day Turkey to vivid life. The empire was a major player in the ancient world, in contact with Mycenaean Greece, and ancient Egypt, Syria, and Palestine. This is one of the most ancient empires of which we have written records, and the author makes full use of these records to flesh out characters and actions based on actual personages and historical facts. A Bildungsroman of sorts, the narrative follows the maturation of a chariot driver who must negotiate treachery and endure the loss of his family in order to protect his king. The novel seamlessly interweaves complex psychological dynamics with affairs of state, offering memorable characters including the charismatic old king, his intrepid young queen, their competing offspring, and changing entourage of vassals and retainers. Among the joys of this deep dive into our past are a close-grained look at this ancient culture: its complex family dynamics, religion, warfare, architecture, and day to day life. A map at the front helps the reader, who will also appreciate the fascinating and useful Historical Note and glossary of names and terms at the back of the book. The book stands on its own for its wide range of memorable characters and suspenseful action, and it would be excellent as a reading for courses on ancient history. I look forward to reading the next book on kindle from the author, Bird in a Snare, set in Ancient Egypt.

The Lightening HorseA must read, whether you are a fan of historical fiction or long for a good story set in an exotic landscape. This book brings to life the ancient Hittite empire of present-day Turkey with vivid details and dynamic characters. Replete with murder, intrigue and eventual redemption, the story begins with the tragic death of a famous charioteer. His grief-stricken son seeks answers to the many questions surrounding his father’s suspicious accident, while at the same time confronting his own grief and guilt over his parent’s death. Young Tiwatipara’s search uncovers political intrigue, a nest of plotters, and clues that friends are not all that they seem to be. As the evidence mounts, he must determine the strength and identity of his enemies. Throughout the novel, colorful descriptions depicting the training and care of chariot horses in the ancient world form a backdrop for this fast-paced story. Those who love horses, including those who ride them for pleasure or sport, will be especially attracted to this work. Its accurate details have been carefully researched by the author, herself a historian and archaeologist. As in all good stories, this book has a surprise ending, but one that stems from its intricate plot and complex characters. If you like a good story, are interested in the history of the Middle East, or simply love horses, I strongly recommend this book

I read this after the Lord Hani series by the same author. This series is very different, almost as if written by someone else. The books have only minor connections to each other and are very slow-paced. Gave up after the second one.

I received The Lightning Horse to read and review free. So I don’t have review. Anyhow. The names are hard to remember (for me) but reading and to know the history throughout the book and it’s timetables, fun. Lots of detail of court life back then. It is possible to get lost in it but take your time. You might really enjoy it. Heads up, there is some swearing in here also

When I first got this book to read I didn’t know I had already read the one after this but it didn’t matter. They were both great and you don’t need to read one to read the other but it’s so cool once you have read one and get to the next and know what they’re talking about when they talk about the different towns and kings ETC. The characters in these books have courage, dignity and although there’s always a villain and in this one there’s more than one it always has a great ending. I really do love these books and can’t wait to read the next one I have downloaded.