Thanks to Netgalley.com and to Random House Publications -- Del Ray Spectra, I was approved to read this pre-released version of Clash of Eagles by Alan Smale. Now, anyone who knows me knows I'm a history nerd (hence the whole going to college for a history degree) and I love history; but, it's been a while since I've read a historical fiction book.
So, I decided to read an alternative history book.
Everyone knows the tale of the Roman Empire. Powerful empire that stretched across the European and Asian continents and ruled for a good amount of years before falling to the Turks.
But, in Clash of Eagles, Smale asks the question "What if the Romans never fell?"
And that simple question got my attention.
Smale however expanded on that question more. "What if the Romans never fell...and were the ones to land upon North America's banks?"
What if the Romans were the ones that we the first contact with the Native Americans? What if the future lands of Canada, America, and Mexico weren't cultivated and conquered by the European powers we all know; but, by the Romans?
So many questions, so little time.
Rough plot ramble. You, the reader, follow along with Gaius Publius Marcellinus (Usually just Marcellinus throughout the text) as he and the Fighting 33rd Hesperian Legion attempt to walk from the Atlantic boarder to the Pacific in the search of gold for his leader back home in Rome. It's a grueling, arduous trek. He's conquered numerous tribes and have come up empty handed with only rumors to give him motivation to continue.
Only to struck down and he finds himself alone and captured by the enemy.
And that's all I'm going to spoil, you'll need to read the book in order to find out what happens.
Now, this novel....is what I would call a niche read. Not everyone is going to like it. It's a heavy historical and military novel. There are hints of romance. There are hints of humor; but, the biggest bulk of this novel is either fighting or Marcellinus warring with himself.
Not to say that this isn't an interesting and wonderful book to read. Not at all. I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and it was a wonderful read; but, I also know that out of my group of friends I'm probably the only one that would.
So, if you're a history buff like myself then pick up this book, especially if you love Roman, Native American, or Alternative history.
Overall, I give this book a 8 out of 10. This wasn't a book that I rant and rave about; but, you wouldn't hear complaints from me. It was a nice book to curl up with and read with some music in the background. I loved how Smale made the Native American tribe come to life. Their culture was obviously well researched and artfully written. I honestly feel like I learned more about Native American tribes in this story more so than I learned in my 13 years of public schooling.
Now, this book was set to be published on March 17, 2015 so it should be on shelves now and is available on Amazon.
Thanks again to Netgalley and Random House Publication to giving me a chance to read this book for free in exchange for my honest review!
Until the next page turn,
Tiffany
