Book info

• Title River God
• Author Wilbur Smith
• Year 1993
• Genre Historical

Taita is a humble slave; an expert in art, poetry, medicine and engineering, as well as the keeper of important secrets. He is the most treasured possession of Lord Intef. Yet when Intef's beautiful daughter Lostris is married to the Pharaoh, Taita is commanded to follow her, and swiftly finds himself deeper than he ever could have imagined in a world of deception and treachery. But outside the palace, the great kingdom of Egypt is divided, and in even greater danger. Enemies threaten on all sides, and only Taita holds the power to save them all...

Thoughts

I didn’t know what this book was about when I started reading it, but I was quickly engrossed in the story of Egypt, its Pharaohs and the bloody warfare that they indulge in. Although the story itself is a relatively straightforward one about two armies facing off against each other, it is the intricate details of life in Ancient Egypt that make it an incredible read.

It’s so hard to get into the mindset of someone in those days, but Smith does an excellent job of painting a picture of life in troubled Egypt. The deference paid to the Pharaoh, the fact they hadn’t seen wheels or horses before, and the fact people were willing to believe a ghost brought forth two princesses, all of it seems far-fetched but so very fitting when you’re in the midst of reading about it.

It was graphic, in places, and the bloodthirsty nature of the piece I’m sure reflects the times but made it hard to read sometimes. Overall, I enjoyed it though, it was something very different and ultimately very rewarding.

Rating: 4 / 5