This was the first book I picked up by Conn Iggulden. As soon as I was finished (which did NOT take very long - I couldn't put it down) I went and bought the rest of the series. I was pleasantly surprised by this book that I had pretty much randomly chosen without any previous exposure to this author.

I do not know the history of Genghis Khan in great detail, but this book did not seem like a history lesson in any aspect, unlike previous reviews have told. The story does follow the history of Genghis as he starts to build his empire but reads like a fast-moving action/war novel with vivid battles. I never felt as if I was being dragged through a history lecture. Iggulden also often writes from the perspective of different characters and thereby gives the reader the greatest understanding of what makes those characters tick. It is through Temuge's journey to Baotou that the reader understands his desires and drives, for example. None of the important characters lacked depth, especially after reading the first book in the series.

Genghis' ruthless desire for conquest, the strength and skill of his officers and the resilience of his people are well featured in this epic. I highly recommend it and the rest of the series as well.