FICTION

Desert God: A Novel of Ancient Egypt

by Wilbur Smith
Morrow. Oct. 2014. 448p. ISBN 9780062276452. $28.99; ebk. ISBN 9780062276513. F
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Octogenarian Smith (River God) is still going strong and so is the eunuch Taita, one of his major recurring characters. The cunning Taita, an adviser to the pharaoh, is warlike and athletic, unlike his more stereotypical brethren. He sees danger for ancient Egypt from an alliance between the Minoans and the Hyksos, warlike nations that have cut off Egypt from the Mediterranean. Taita must break up the alliance and see to it that both of Egypt's enemies are defeated.
VERDICT What's the recipe for commercial fiction success? Start with solid history along with plenty of action, sex, and brutal violence. Mix some mythical creatures, volcanic eruptions, and tidal waves with a dollop of true love, and the result is an entertaining adventure. Smith's fans in general and fans of Taita from the Egyptian series will be pleased.
Reviewed by Robert Conroy, Warren, MI , Aug 01, 2014
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