Fires of Alexandria

Ancient History Steampunk - a great read!

Really fantastic alternate history/historical novel with an excellent lead character in the form of Heron, a mathematician and "miracle inventor" in the time of the Roman occupation of Alexandria. Heron, a real historical figure, is portrayed with a twist in Carpenter's book as a woman (the twin brother to the male Heron, who takes his identity when he dies, as she is the real mastermind of the pair, as portrayed in this novel). The main premise surrounds the mystery surrounding the cause of the fires that burned down the Library of Alexandria...but the novel takes us through numerous other political intrigues happening at the time, as well as other historical figures Heron interacts with. There is also an interesting (fictional) character in the form of "the barbarian" from the North, who hires Heron to fashion for him a mechanical army from her "miracle" technologies, and in the process she prematurely invents the steam engine. Speaking of steam, in terms of the miracles themselves, there's a bit of a steampunk flavor the book at times, even without the actual steam power. Overall, a huge recommend for strong characters, a believable alternate history (and interpretation of real history) that is completely fascinating and compelling. Add to that strong action, mystery and intrigue throughout the course of the novel, and it's a tough one to put down.

1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.

Excellent Historical Novel

Fires of Alexandria by Thomas Carpenter is the first book in the Alexandrian Saga. One thing I liked about the book is it is a fictional novel based on actual happenings. Most all who studied history in school learned about the Roman Empire and the great fires that took out the Library of Alexandria, and about Heron of Alexandria. As the author writes he brings back to life in this fictional account some of the greats and lesser known's such as Lysimachus the Alabarch who portrayed as a villainous debt collector in actuality was a cousin to Herod the Great. As we get into the book we find Heron who was one of the greatest inventors and mathematicians there was is a woman. Taking on the role of Heron after her twin brother died she also took on his debts that he left behind. As she is called upon to find out who was the cause of the great fire she knows that this money will pay off the debts to Lysimachus as long as she can hold him off before he gets any ideas about her niece. This is quite an enjoyable read that takes the reading back into the historical archives of history back to the years 350 BC to 10-70 AD. Back to when the Roman Empire ruled. If you are a historical buff and like to read fictional novels based on actual happenings, then you will enjoy this new saga. This book can be purchased at Amazon, Barnes & Noble or on Smash-words either as a e-book or paperback. I would like to thank the author for giving me the chance to read his book. I found this to be an enjoyable read.

1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.

Loved this book! Highly recommend.

This is a wonderful alternate history/historical novel. The characters were very well developed, and I just couldn't put it down! The author immersed me in the sights, sounds & smells of ancient Alexandria as I entered into the lives of the characters. I can't wait to read more by Thomas Carpenter.

Great Book! Highly Recommend

I didn't want to put this one down. From the start the characters drew me into the story. I couldn't wait to see what would happen next. Looking forward to the next book in this series!