This book seems to be a rough draft of what could have been a fabulous story. Although purporting itself to be a historical novel, it has none of the richness or detail that would necessarily tie itself to this period of time. It could very well have taken place within a fantasy world, and might have actually fared much better if it wasn't tied to a specific point in history. The setting is lacking, as the history of the times is presented more as appended lists of unnecessary details rather than an as the foundation from which the action necessarily and organically flows. The characterization is very weak, and there is no real chance for the reader to learn to hate the enemy nor love… Read more