Band of Trojan Horses

If you've read and enjoyed any of David Gemmell's previous books, you'll be familiar with their weird place names and deceptively simple prose. You'll also recall the wonderfully flawed characters. But whether you've read a Gemmell book before or not, Troy: Fall of Kings is likely to draw you in like the best of gift horses.

I recommend that you read the two prequels first, though - Gemmell comes up with a clever explanation for the Trojan Horse, but doesn't waste any time describing his conceit to newcomers. A "story so far" introduction or a few brief expository lines would have been very helpful this go-round. But stick with it and the book will reward you as a classic page-turner.

You can read my full review of Fall of Kings on the Charleston Post & Courier website.