(see copy 2; read 2018-011-01) ( )

I like Gemmell's combination of practical cynicism and realistic idealism, although this is not the best example of his writing.
The Arthurian connection was an interesting "hook" but was such a mish-mash of traditions and original material I think it is best approached as off-earth fantasy, or alternate history.
Gemmel is usually quite savvy about weapons and warriors, but he falls into the common trap of the genre in transforming his wimpy hero into a master swordsman in only a couple of months.
Anyone who actually fences knows that can't be done; there is too much muscle-memory and technique that has to be started at an early age and practiced continually.
Swords are not guns.
NOTE: 2 episodes of mild but still graphic sex. ( )

Ghost King - David Gemmell *****

I was first introduced to Gemmell by way of the Jon Shannow novels, but at the time I didn't realise they were part of a larger series of books that deal with Sipstrassi stomes.

Ghost King is the first in this series and is set in a version of Britain at the time of the Roman invasion. The story has been repeated many times over the years, a weak Prince is suddenly made King and must face his own fears in order to rule his people against a coming war. What really makes this book stand out from the rest is the unique way in which Gemmell has woven real history, well known myth and his own creations.

Sipstrassi enables it's user to create anything, he is only bound by his own imagination but the stones themselves have a limited power and change colour each time they are used. Once a stone is empty it can be repowered using blood, however these stones are no longer able to be used for a number of things (including the making of food) and are therefore more likely to be used for wrongdoing. Tied in closely with Arthurian legend this book really does have a bit of everything and although I can't say it was as good as the Shannow novels, it would still be a perfect introduction to the author.

The only point that slightly disappointed me was that whenever a character would mention something that they had seen or were warned about you could pretty much guarantee it would appear within a few pages (I hope we don't meet a vampire.... oh look here comes one now), this did take away a little bit of the surprise.

A brilliant book and I can't wait to read the next one 'Last Sword of Power'. ( )

David Gemmell always injects good creativity and drama into his books. They aren't realistic or gritty, but they're entertaining. Pulp fiction. ( )

Just finished reading this again as I work my way through all my Gemmell novels, & though I admit it isn't his best book there is still more than enough in there to keep the pages turning. Gemmell makes no excuses for his take on the Arthurian legend & no pretence of any historical accuracy.
The bulk of the story takes place in post-Roman Britain as various native tribes fight for dominance. During peace negotiations Thuro, the main character, father is assassinated & the remainder of the book is basically his fight to stay alive initially & then regain his fathers kingdom.
This book at times goes a little farther than Gemmells usual & it does detract from the flow of the book with all the references to virtually every notable historical figure before & during the times of the Roman Empire. If you are new to David Gemmell this probably isn't the book to start at, if you're like me & own virtually everything Gemmell has published then this book is a good read in a long list of excellent books. ( )