King of Kings (The Courtneys & Ballantynes Book 2)

We have read about 30 of Wilbur Smith's books, and they never disappoint!!! Each one is unique, full of action and history. This particular book was one of his best! The only problem is finding the order in which they should be read. So far, none of the published lists are accurate. Loved it!!!

When I first read When The Lion Feeds I became addicted to Wilbur’s amazing talent. His historical accuracy, credible and vivid characterisation woven around fallible human traits combined with the richness of darkest Africa have always left me spellbound. I can reread these early novels again and again and still get a buzz or occasionally find a piece I seem to have overlooked.But, oh dear, the ghost writing is awful. Because I recognise his style so intimately I can spot an impersonation in a flash. There is only one Wilbur and whilst this is better than the first ghost written attempts it really leaves me disappointed because of the incredible standard he has set in the past. It’s almost as if he is racing in his autumn years to crank out a few more before it is too late. Sometimes in life we should bow out gracefully and at a peak. He has nothing more to prove. He has written a wonderful legacy and his words will be with us for generations to come.

Wilbur Smith writes the most wonderful books. His descriptions are so perfect you find yourself within the story: feeling each emotionWith Sean; seeing each amazing part of Africa and even feeling fear ! Smith is a marvel with weaving a story line !! I have read almost every book he has written and can’t wait to read the next one!!

Discovered Wilbur Smith novels a few years ago and have since read all, even the earliest, and still have several on my permanent bookshelf. Have most enjoyed the Courtney, Ballantyne and Egypt titles of historical adventure . The King of Kings is well connected to these and did not disappoint. The usual Wilbur Smith detailed imagery, descriptions of time and place woven into the story. In this case Ethiopia/Abyssinia and Egypt, in the 1880s. Along with clear dialogue from the characters, flaws and all. The earlier Courtney and Ballantyne novels had lots of Ferocity and Savagery, still in this book but softened a bit here. Still enjoyable and a good story. I think the latest co-writer Imogen Robertson contributed well to the story too. All good.

Again Wilbur does his magic in forming a story that is riveting. The characters in this novel are real people.

I enjoyed this book, having read all the other books in the series over decades. Excellent writing, as usual, from Mr Smith. Difficult for me to stop reading historical fiction in any case. I did find the very end of the novel to be a bit anemic.

This book is similar to the earlier Wilbur Smith swashbuckling novels that keeps the reader glued to the book until the final page. A must read and while a stand alone book, it would assist the reader to read first the novel, The Triumph of the Sun, for the background of the present novel. Both are great reads.

Yet another page turning adventure! I flew through this book relishing in its twists and turns. I’ve never read a Wilbur Smith book I didn’t like and only wish there was an endless stream of them from which I could drink.

Wilbur Smith at his best. Brilliant story and worth reading.

Great book fast moving story. Wilbur Smith is a terrific writer.

Einer der erfolgreichsten internationalen Schriftsteller. In mehr als 27 Sprachen übersetzt. Ein Künstler der englische Sprache und seine endlose Reichtum an Geschichten die er seid 50 Jahren mit uns teilt. Alle seine Bücher sind in die Internationale Bestsellerlisten und die meisten sogar auf Platz 1!

I thoroughly enjoyed King of Kings. It was exciting and engrossing. Hard to put down. Imogen Robertson has successfully managed to collaborate with Wilbur Smith to pen a novel that feels like an old Wilbur Smith fast-paced African adventure and a fitting sequel to the Triumph of the Sun. I highly recommended it. I think die hard Wilbur Smith fans will not be disappointed.The novel has the elements of romance and adventure set in the backdrop of rugged African mountainous terrain. It follows the trials and tribulations and triumphs of Saffron and her husband Ryder Courtney trying to establish their silver mine in Ethiopia along with her sister Amber while parallelly following the escapades of Amber's fiance Major Penrod Ballantyne. In my opinion - a great read!

Love All his books