The saga continues in this sequel novel to Dawn of the Greatest Persian. The writer has incorporated vivid lifestyle details to keep the mood of this novel about Cyrus the Great consistent with the way royalty and peasants might have lived in the sixth century BCE. Ancient historical figures have conflicts based on personality and religious beliefs, but wars are fought for personal power or economic reasons, and not for specific religious differences. Cyrus travels throughout ancient Persia. His father King Cambyses insists that he learn the customs of the country when he reaches traditional adulthood. His grandfather is King Astyages, the ruler of the Median Empire, who imprisons the prince for spurious reasons. Cyrus survives multiple assassination attempts initiated by family, governmental, and tribal officials. He survives wounds caused by battles and an animal attack. He finds true love that creates new difficulties with his mother. He travels the length of ancient Persia with soldiers who love the rugged terrain and teach him about military life. The customs of the country are colorfully depicted. Peasant life and survival are revealed to the prince in such a way that he develops a personal philosophy that makes him proud of his heritage.
