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The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight #4)The Sun at Twilight by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Sun at Twilight is Book Four in the Empire at Night Series. It is a historical mystery that centers around the character of Tudhaliya IV in the Hittite Empire. He wants to rule his empire as past leaders have but his advisors have other ideas on how he should rule. The way in which he wants to rule is viewed as weak and Tudhaliya risks losing his kingdom to his cousin Kurunta. This was a great read that was vivid, and rich with historical information. It was full of mystery, action, suspense, conflict, betrayal, and family drama.

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The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight Book 4) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Christine Baranek

The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight #4)The Sun at Twilight by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Sun At Twilight
By: N.L. Holmes

This is such an interesting fictional look at the Hittite Empire. I did not know much about this empire prior to reading this book, but I feel like I learned a whole lot and was entertained throughout the book. N.L. Holmes is a fantastic author whose passion for history exudes from her work. Every book she writes has an impeccable attention to detail and makes you feel as if you are fully immersed in the Empire. I definitely recommend picking this one up and reading it! You won’t be disappointed.

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The Sun At Twilight (Empire at Twilight) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Shelly Kittell

The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight #4)The Sun at Twilight by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I have enjoyed the progression of this series as it goes along. We watch the new King worry as to if he can handle the job. This author does such a good job of writing about these issues that you often wonder how does she do this so well. I can tell that she does her research. These books are so well and yet not dry. I look forward to each new one that comes out. This was another that I just dove right on into and couldn’t put down.

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The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight Book 4) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Jennifer Wolbeck

The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight #4)The Sun at Twilight by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is my second read from the Empire at Twilight series, and while I have praised N.L. Holmes plenty enough in the past for her immersive world building, fluid writing style and interesting characters, I’ve realized that one of my favorite things about her is her choice of subject. I adore historical fiction, but this is my first time reading about the Hittite Empire from the 1230’s BC. What fascinated me the most was the parallels I found between Tudhaliya IV and King Edward IV of England from the Wars of the Roses in the 1400’s AD. The concept of infighting within powerful royal families and the fears over the stability of succession seems to be a universal and timeless concept, and it was a treat getting to read about it from a different perspective.

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The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight Book 4) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Jonell Collins

The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight #4)The Sun at Twilight by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I would like to say that I took my time and relished the reading of The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight Book 4) by N.L. Holmes. Unfortunately I cannot say that. I read it from start to finish in one sitting. I can’t help it, I love these books. They are so well written, the language is beautiful, the story is deep, and this one was especially  significant to me. I could so relate to  King Tudhaliya.Brought up to believe that integrity was important, that honesty was important, that justice was important. He became the man that he was brought up to be. It’s always a disappointment when you believe in those things and you find out the rest of the world doesn’t. With this book N.L Holmes has become my top author. I not only recommend that you read this book and her other books but I urge you to, you really don’t know what you’re missing.

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The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight Book 4) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Faith Jackson

The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight #4)The Sun at Twilight by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have loved this series so far and am sticking it through to the end. Ms. N.L. Holmes knows how to make history fun and exciting. This series does just that. This book was no different but it delves deeper into relationships which I enjoyed. So, thanks for writing this as I enjoyed it so much. Brava!!

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The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight #4) by N.L. Holmes-Review by Amanda Kimble

The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight #4)The Sun at Twilight by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5/5 Stars

The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight #4) by N.L. Holmes

This is another great read by Holmes. She writes Historical Fiction and knows how to keep the readers coming back. Book Four of the Empire at Twilight Series, but can be read as a standalone.

Tudhaliya is next in line for king, but when his best friend comes into take over things go bad. He doesn’t know what to do. He wants to be King but he also doesn’t want to lose the friendship. The quote I chose for Tudhaliya is: “Why, no. What? How am I part of this picture?”

Highly recommended for Historical lovers.

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The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight Book 4) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Jennifer Gordon

The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight #4)The Sun at Twilight by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is another gripping and engaging historical fiction novel by N.L. Holmes in her ‘Empire at Twilight’ series. This is obviously a well researched novel and it is wonderfully written in a way which brings the time period and setting alive for the reader. I found the historical notes at the beginning of the book fascinating and the map, cast of characters and the glossary and terms of Gods were very helpful and I did refer back to them whilst reading. Set during the twilight years of the Hittite Empire and Tudhaliya IV is on the throne but he is the younger son of a usurper. However Tudhaliya wants to rule by the traditional values of justice and clemency, against the advice of his overly ambitious mother and older brothers who are not entirely loyal. His ideals are tested when his cousin and friend Kurunta makes his own claim on the throne and Tudhaliya must deal with this threat without looking weak. Overall his goal is to be able to leave his own son an empire free of civil war but at what personal cost to himself. The storyline is fast paced and the plot twists kept me hooked from beginning to the end. The characters are well defined and the descriptive narrative gave me a clear image of them, making me feel immersed in their story. This was an entertaining and enjoyable read which had me captivated from page one. Although part of a series it can be read as a standalone story, however, I have read and enjoyed the previous novels and would recommend both this book and the series.

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The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight Book 4) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Sheri Schrader

The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight #4)The Sun at Twilight by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Sun at Twilight by NL Holmes is the fourth book in the Empire at Twilight series. This is a fantastic series and this book does not disappoint. The story is set during the Hittite Empire during the reign of Tudhaliya IV. The challenges to the throne and other issues have him questioning how he is to rule the Empire, fair and just or with an iron fist. I really have enjoyed this series and this book is wonderful as well. I feel myself drawn into the stories and wanting to know the story taking place. The author gives wonderful descriptions and creates and imagines the world at hand during these ancient times. I look forward to reading more in this series and from this author in the future.

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The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight Book 4) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Roxsanne Lesieur.

The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight #4)The Sun at Twilight by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the next installment of the Empire At Twilight series and it focuses on Tashmi-sharrumma, his father has died and he has now been chosen to be the next Great King Tudhaliya IV and as he grieves, he is also wondering how he will be able to take on the mantle of king and worrying that he might not be enough of anything to do it, especially with the family’s questionable allegiances and loyalties he is surrounded with. He does find comfort in his cousin Kurunta, he has since they were boys, but now he has been crowned, he doesn’t quite know how to deal with it, he has never been someone eloquent, however, he also has trouble expressing his feelings as well, as well as his wife, to a point at least. As the funeral rights and commemorative feasting comes to an end, it is time for the oath making part of the ceremony and even though he is exhausted, he agrees and as the vassals approach him to give him their solemn oaths, he is silently hoping that they are genuine with their vows and when he goes to his chambers, he is greeted with the news that his wife is expecting and is due in midsummer, he now hopes that this is a good omen for his reign.

The next day, Tudhaliya tries to escape for a few minutes onto the roof of his palace and away from everyone, but his solitude is broken when Kurunta joins him and the reminisce about their childhood and he can forget for a small time the weight which is hanging on his shoulders now and then his reign really begins when Tudhaliya meets with his generals and his mother the Tawananna to speak about the affairs of the kingdom, that there is more news coming, but this time it is all bad, the Assyrians are hounding his borders and there is a chance that the lands between them and his are vassals who may decide to turn on him if the leverage is right, there is a debate as to what to do, where the choices are hard, wither to direct them one way and give them something else to focus on but break a treaty, or to ask them to cease and desist and if they refuse, to send troops in to send them back to their own country, the king makes a decision which disagrees with the Tawananna and most of the other councillors. Next he finds out that some individuals who were exiled, have been seen and that they may be trying to shore up allegiances to usurp the throne, the decision is made to wait and see what happens, but to keep their ears open. The final thing is that the crops are having another poor year and that they may have to buy in grains if the poor weather conditions continue, after the meeting is finished and other matters of state are resolved, Tudhaliya is notified of a request for help from a vassal king and he agrees to help, but when he gets there, the battle is lost and the person he came to aid runs away instead of fighting back as expected.

As the months pass and the affairs of the kingdom are becoming steadily worse, Tudhaliya does everything he can think of to appease the gods and find out why everything is happening, but he is finding it hard to trust those surrounding him and this is putting a strain on his relationships, including the ones which he thought were the strongest. Will Tudhaliya be able to face his challenges and win the battles and hardships to come, or will the cost be too high and leave his son with a broken kingdom to rule when he has gone? This is a long and arduous journey for the king and you will be swept along with him as you hope from one scenario to the next.

Reviewed by @roxsannel

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The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight Book 4) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh

The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight #4)The Sun at Twilight by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5 Stars
The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight Book 4) by N.L. Holmes

The Sun at Twilight is the fourth book in The Empire at Twilight Series by N.L Holmes. This is a wonderfully written Historical fiction that I freaking loved reading. I’m a huge fan of anything Historical and this author is quickly becoming a favorite of mine. The style of writing and attention to detail simply blows me away. From the beginning to the end I had a hard time putting it down. Not much else got done until I finished reading. I will say if you haven’t already started this series I would highly recommend reading the whole series in order as each book is as enjoyable as this one. Plus I like to read series in order so I don’t miss anything. This takes place in the Hittite Empire in 1230’s BC and is about family, friendships and sacrifices ones make. Find out what happens next when one is to take over the throne and the other thinks it should be him. What will he choose in the end ,friendship, family or his duties? I highly recommend reading this series and highly recommend this book. I look forward to reading more from this Author.

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The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight Book Book 4) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Kerry Carr

The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight #4)The Sun at Twilight by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the 4th book in the Empire At Twilight series and the books keep getting better. What I love about this author is how they are able to bring history to life. The stories are enjoyable to read and the author knowledge about historical times really brings the story and characters to life.

Tudhaliya IV has taken the throne of the Hittite Empire after his father passes away. He is placed in that position over all of his older half brothers and he wonders why.

Knowing that it isn’t his rightful role he struggles to keep everyone happy and his relationships with his family members on the right track. However with his best friend and cousin the rightful person to take the throne,Tudhaliya is torn between his loyalty to his family and dear friend and his duty to the throne. Add to this story the  forces working against him and he doesn’t know who to trust. Should we just trust people because they are family or should he be guarded against everyone and anyone.

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The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight Book 4) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Francis O’Sullivan

The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight #4)The Sun at Twilight by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I’m really getting into N.L. Holmes’ books and The Sun at Twilight is another fantastic read! It’s the fourth in the Empire at Twilight series – set in the 13th Century BCE near the end of the Hittite Empire. The books focus on different characters during this period – in this case, it is the King Tudhaliya IV.
As I’ve said before, N.L. Holmes does a fantastic job of bringing historical worlds to life. She draws on historical evidence to inform the stories and their settings, creating vivid pictures of what life might have been like. Empire at Twilight takes place in a time and place I knew very little about so it has been very educational, as well as inspiring me to look into what artefacts have survived from this period.
The story is exciting and compelling. It opens with the protagonist mourning his late father and setting out his hopes and fears for his coming reign. There are already plenty of complications in family dynamics and allegiances, and people waiting to take advantage of the change in leadership. As the story progresses, there are even more twists and turns.
For me, this is a five star book. I would recommend this series to adult readers who enjoy historical fiction and want to be transported far back in time.

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The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight Book 4) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Kerry Baker

The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight #4)The Sun at Twilight by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Sun At Twilight by N.L. Holmes is the fourth book in the Empire at Twilight series. This is another well written and detailed story by an author who really knows how to create a vivid story. I was pulled right into this story simply from the way the author created it. It felt like it was right there with Tudhaliya and could feel his anguish and conflict. I was interested the whole way through as to what he would do. This book is really all about the characters. They are at the absolute heart of it all and really make this book what it is. I would definitely say, even if this is something you wouldn’t normally read, this series is definitely worth it.

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The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight Book 4) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Heather Lovelace

The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight #4)The Sun at Twilight by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Holmes is an extremely gifted author. Her attention to detail is so superior that the reader cannot help but wonder if they have not in fact time traveler. The imagery and setting are so vivid it is sometimes difficult not to feel completely immersed. I have always been fascinated by ancient Egypt and love this exploration of a time and place that has always seemed so rich in history so different from my own. Another masterpiece.

Reviewed by @heatherlovelace
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The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight Book 4) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Erica Fish

The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight #4)The Sun at Twilight by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Sun at Twilight is the fourth book and I have enjoyed it just as much as the first three books. The Empire at Twilight series is a great series to read. I highly recommend reading the first three books to get the full background of this book. I love the historical time frame that this is written in. Attention to detail is so important. I was able to paint a picture in my mind’s eye and be drawn into this book with these wonderful characters. The characters are fully developed and complex in nature. This book is about Tudhaliya IV and him taking the throne. There is another, Kurunta has a claim to the throne. How will family, friendship and sacrifice play out in this story? It is a ride of emotions with twists and turns. I highly recommend this book to see what happens within this empire.

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The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight Book 4) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Angela Hayes

The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight #4)The Sun at Twilight by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

The Sun at Twilight is the fourth book in the Empire at Twilight series by N.L Holmes. As with the rest of the series, this is an historical crime story- full of rich and descriptive details which bring the story to life.
As I have discovered from reading most of Ms. Holmes’ other works, is that historical fiction is what she does best- her extensive knowledge of her subject adds realism and interest to her stories. And the authors obvious passion for history is not only evident in her work- but also added to my enjoyment of the book.
Ms. Holmes’ stories are a wonderful and fascinating blend of fiction and historical fact, which are woven into intriguing tales with plenty of mystery and drama to keep things interesting.

Thank you, N.L Holmes!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight Book 4) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Heidi Schoolman

The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight #4)The Sun at Twilight by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the fourth book in the Empire at Twilight series and is 477 pages. This story follows Tudhaliya and Kurunta. Tudhaliya has reached his time to take the throne and he vows to rule with tradition. Kurunta is the cousin that grew up with Tudhaliya and feels he deserves the throne more. Tudhaliya’s advisors let him know his way of ruling makes him appear weak. This is what leads Kurunta to challenge the throne. Will he choose his friendship and family or his duty?

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The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight Book 4) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Caralee Loonat

The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight #4)The Sun at Twilight by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight Book 4) by N.L. Holmes
4 Stars!!!!

I was once again take into the historical world and lost in intrigue and drama. This is the fourth book by this author that I have read and was not disappointed. I really like how the author is able to bring the past to life and the characters just come right off of the page. I like how the complex relationships are outlined and how the story unwinds.

The characters all have very complex lives and they really draw the reader in and the past unfolds right before your eyes. There is just the right mix of drama and intrigue mixed in with subterfuges and conflict. I really felt as though I was back in time and like I was right there interacting with the characters. I will definitely be reading more from this author.

Reviewed by @caraleeloonat
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The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight Book 4) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Lizzie Chapman Gough

The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight #4)The Sun at Twilight by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the first in this series that I have read and I’m now left wanting to read the others. An enjoyable, captivating read I was gripped from chapter to chapter wanting to know what was coming next in the story of the Hatti Land’s Great King. The plot was well thought out, evenly paced and easy to follow whilst still keeping my interest. An action packed yet emotional read I found myself getting caught up in the story and was a tad sad when I realized I had come to the end of the story.
This book is perfect for lover’s of historical fiction who enjoy battle scenes and romance.

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The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight Book 4) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Piper Foster

The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight #4)The Sun at Twilight by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the four book in the series. Yet again excellent description throughout. Is an very enjoyable read. The story is nicely paced and not rushed where you can feel the time go by and not at the same time. The characters are really well written
I really like Kurunta. Who will rule the empire is the major question.

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The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight Book 4) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Katie Kearney

The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight #4)The Sun at Twilight by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight Book 4)
By N.L. Holmes. This author is quickly becoming one of my top faves. Definitely one of the authors that has me enjoying reads outside my comfort zone. And this one was just as great as past reads. I recommend this entire series but this one may have been my favorite. It just captured me in a different way than the rest but they are really great also. The author takes readers on an adventure you can’t forget. The characters are complex and drew me in with no problem. The storyline is well written and paced nicely never feeling rushed. I’m already excited to see where the author takes readers next. Four stars and highly recommended!

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The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight Book 4) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Tausha Treadway

The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight #4)The Sun at Twilight by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight Book 4) by N.L. Holmes. I have absolutely loved this series which shocks me because this is not my favorite genre. I have loved every book a little more than the one before. This one was just as amazing as the others. This one takes place during the Hittite Empire and where Tudhaliya IV is the ruler and he wants to shake things up a bit. He doesn’t want to listen to the Royal Advisors and wants to take the Kingdom in an entirely different direction. He seems to be more forgiving and not as harsh as previous rulers but his enemies see that as a weakness. This sign of weakness causes his cousin who is more like a brother Kurunta to challenge the Throne. Will Tudahaliya lose his Kingdom along with his cousin/friend or will he be able to change the way things have always been?

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The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight Book 4) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Jenni Bishop

The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight #4)The Sun at Twilight by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight Book 4) by N.L. Holmes is a historical tale. The story is set in the Hittite Empire in the 1230s BC. NL is known for her historical stories which is her passion and that shines through in her stories. Fiction and historical facts is a winning combination that makes her stories come alive to give you an intriguing drama filled story each and every time.

Tudhaliya is conflicted between his duty and his friendship and loyalty to family. Who can he trust and listen too?

Reviewed by @jennadb

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The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight Book 4) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Bobbi Wagner

The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight #4)The Sun at Twilight by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the fourth book in this series which I enjoyed from beginning to end. I highly suggest reading the previous three books as they are just as great as this one. This is an author I enjoy. Her writing skills and attention to details made the story realistic. The characters bring the story to life and kept the story engaging. This is a story of friendship, family and sacrifice. There is a fight for a thorn and for an empire that is free. I had no issues relating to the characters. They really made the story for me. I highly recommend reading this book to see what happens with this empire.

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Review by @bjwagner

The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight Book 4) by N.L. Holmes

~ ♦ ~ ♦ ~ ♦ ~ ♦ ~ BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE ~ ♦ ~ ♦ ~ ♦ ~ ♦ ~
The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight Book 4) by N.L. Holmes
Genre – historical fiction, drama, LBGT
Page Count – 323 pages
Cover Designer – Streetlight Graphics
In the twilight years of the Hittite Empire (1230s BC), Tudhaliya IV comes to the throne as a usurper’s younger son, determined to rule according to the traditional values of justice and clemency, despite the harder advice of his ambitious mother and his questionably loyal older brothers. When his cousin Kurunta, with whom he was raised as someone dearer than a brother, decides his own claim to the throne is stronger than Tudhaliya’s, the latter must decide whether to apply the brutal pragmatism of his advisors or risk appearing weak, and how to manage to leave his own son an empire that is finally free from civil war. The cost will be the sacrifice of his deepest friendship.

~ AMAZON ~

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N.L. Holmes is the pen name of an archaeologist who has taught ancient history and humanities at the college level for many years. She is the author of eight novels set in the Bronze Age. With her husband, she splits her time between Florida and northern France.