Archeological Historical

Vijay, an ISRO scientist, gets reincarnated in the Vijayanagara Empire, which has not yet weakened but unified South India in a parallel Earth similar to the current one, with slightly altered people and events in the 17th century. Watch how he guides the ancient nation back on the right track again. For Resources Discord: https://discord.gg/mRRVjFaf5H For UPI Donations: authormithunreddygaru@kotak Disclaimer: This novel is a work of fiction that explores historical events within the context of a parallel Earth. Any similarities to real-world historical occurrences are purely coincidental and are a product of the author's imagination. The intent is to offer an alternate perspective on history and should not be construed as an accurate representation of actual events. Reader discretion is advised. If you own the rights to the profile picture used by the author, please Let us know in the Comments for proper attribution or its removal. We appreciate your understanding and are committed to resolving any concerns regarding intellectual property rights.

Lucius, a sickly orphan, dies after the world was plunged into World War 3, and suddenly finds himself in the Middle Ages—summoned by the Heresy Cult as Lord Mors, the embodiment of death. In this Dark Age, humanity has not yet advanced in technology, but he soon discovers the strange and supernatural realities that were never recorded in history. Worst of all, as the new leader of the Heresy Cult, he must now become the enemy of the world and lead mankind out of the current era of chaos. This leads him down the path of atrocities and abominations… marking his grim existence as the Lord Of The Dead. Tags: Transmigration. Reincarnation. Historical Fantasy. Action. Adventure. Magic. Villain. WeaktoStrong. Overpowered. Romance. Dark. Superpowers. KingdomBuilding.

Check out my new book Whispers Of The Lost!! Dive into the Shadows of Menthil City! Join Asher Moretti on a gripping journey through the dark underbelly of Menthil City, where ancient magic and sinister secrets intertwine. In an era devoid of modern technology, the city’s hidden terrors awaken, and it's not long before Asher finds himself at the center of the chaos. When the sleeping tigers of this world begin to stir, it becomes his job to confront the horrors lurking in the night. As he delves deeper into the mysteries around him, Asher grapples with his sanity, questioning what is real and what is merely a figment of his imagination. Amidst strange horrors, powerful magical relics, and ancient ruins, the line between reality and madness blurs. Prepare for an adventure filled with dark wonders and moments of levity as Asher unravels the secrets of Menthil City. If we're lucky we might even catch Asher lampooning a couple times!

Sion, a young college student who saw his world engulfed in an otherworldly flame and overrun by monsters and creatures that had only existed in myths, was transported to a new and completely unfamiliar realm when he was on the brink of death.   In a realm where monsters and mythical entities roamed freely, where the unimaginable was possible and survival of the fittest prevailed for most, he found himself with an opportunity. This world, as stunning as it was grim and merciless, offered him a chance at a cost: his appearance had changed, and the gods had taken his very identity. He became an entirely new person with an opportunity to build his own nation presented to him when he saw the state of certain things. In an era built on chaos, will the path set by fate and the gods be adhered to, or will a new path, fraught with uncertainty and the prospect of greater gains, be carved out in an era founded on chaos?   On a journey filled with perils and abominations, will he be able to overcome the obstacles his enemies present, establish his power, and demonstrate his strength to the world? Note: This novel contains elves, orcs, ogres, goblins, dwarfs, succubus, etc. Other tags: Overpowered MC - Smut - Fantasy Creatures -Mature - revenge- Magic- survival- Beautiful female lead- Dark- Historical Fantasy.

Miloka, a reclusive artist with a deep obsession for depicting historical eras, spends his days painting vivid scenes from lost worlds—feudal Japan, the age of the Aztecs, Viking sagas, and more. One night, after finishing a haunting depiction of a samurai battlefield, Miloka falls asleep only to awaken within the world he painted. Trapped in his own art, he realizes he must survive and clear each of the ten eras that randomly come to life when he sleeps. With each transition, Miloka is transformed into a different person, forced to adopt the combat techniques and supernatural powers of that time. But as he navigates these worlds, filled with betrayal, epic battles, and the lingering whispers of love lost and regained, he begins to wonder whether he will ever return to reality—or if his paintings were more than mere fantasies all along. The final challenge awaits where horror and despair reign supreme.

Jaxith, a monster slayer whose job is killing monsters for money, suddenly has a terrifying nightmare about a town nearby but the weird thing was a specific girl in this nightmare. The story goes on as Jaxith follow this nightmare until he finds Irene the young demon hybrid and starts protecting her from unknown enemies that gradually uncover some of his dark secrets. the story takes place in Plistura continent divided into six kingdoms with Reldret the head of the kingdoms regulating the relations between the other kingdoms, and the reason for that is due to long historical events. there is one large kingdom for elves called Yarnat, another one for dwarfs called Volgast, the four other kingdoms population are mainly humans and they are Reldret, Kozelsk, Legnica and finally Vidin, the main trading center in plistura, and that's where our story begins. Follow Jaxith and Irene as they face many dangerous situations and the secrets they're going to discover, a lot of enemies, few allies, betrayals and political schemes, will Jaxith be able to protect the young innocent hybrid that reminds him of his old good past? Or will he fail just like he failed before and became the monster he's now? Discord server: https://discord.gg/PQs2FMvt9W if you want to understand anything about the novel I'm available at discord

Check out my latest novel: Beyond the Bloodline. ◇　◇　◇ For billions of years, the gods have stood atop most universes, some being benevolent, while others being malevolent. Suddenly, there was a prophecy. One that foretold the birth of a certain being. The child of a god, born to put an end to the gods. Would the gods really let such a being exist in peace? Obviously Not. Would that being really let the gods mess up his life without retaliation? Definitely Not. This is a telling of that being’s story, as he rises up to fight against the gods who wish to end him, and as he discovers the other powerful entities and horrors that lurk in the vast cosmos. ◇　◇　◇ WARNING: THE EARLIER CHAPTERS OF THIS STORY ARE CURRENTLY BEING REWRITTEN Check out my other stories from my profile; ' Reincarnated Hero System' & 'Beyond the Bloodline'. ◇　◇　◇ Discord Link : https://discord.gg/ZXyAjGtS4r ◇　◇　◇ Support Me: https://ko-fi.com/michae_l ◇　◇　◇ Although many may think this story begins on a high note, worry not, things would flow normally soon after. I'm new to writing so I hope you all would support me on this journey. I'm hoping for your review on what you think about the book. Constructive criticisms are allowed too. Credits to the Image Artist. If the image is yours and you do not want me using it Kindly DM ◇　◇　◇ DISCLAIMER! This novel is a work of fiction and though it draws inspiration from historical places and events, it is by no means meant to be a realistic representation of any current or historical events, places cultures, or people. The story may contain themes and events that may be disturbing to some people and if you are "triggered" by pretty much anything at all, It may not be suitable for you as I will not limit myself in terms of themes, events, or topics while writing. ◇　◇　◇ (Alternative Synopsis The gods have been the rulers of most universes for billions of years, some being benevolent while some being malevolent. When there’s suddenly a prophecy about the coming of a being who can potentially bring an end to their rule, There’s no way they’ll let such a being exist. This is the story of that being as he rises up to fight against the gods who wish to end him and discovers other powerful entities and horrors that lurk in the cosmos.)

Born as a test subject yearning for freedom, he never imagined that a gamble of fate would leave him as a youngest prince of the once-mighty Vijayanagar Empire in the 16th century India. Fueled by his undying thirst for absolute control and endless amusement, he stops at nothing to achieve his desires. Follow along as His actions, driven by a twisted sense of entertainment, plunging the empire into a maelstrom of chaos. Disclaimer: This novel is a work of fiction that explores historical events within the context of a parallel Earth. Any similarities to real-world historical occurrences are purely coincidental and are a product of the author's imagination. The intent is to offer an alternate perspective on history and should not be construed as an accurate representation of actual events. Reader discretion is advised. If you own the rights to the profile picture used by the author, please Let us know in the Comments for proper attribution or its removal. We appreciate your understanding and are committed to resolving any concerns regarding intellectual property rights.

Vampires and Werewolves... Two Powerful Races with Incompatible Bloodlines. Eternal Rivals with one another. And then someone decided to create beings who were mixtures of the two. Well…maybe they shouldn’t have done that. ◇ ◇ ◇ Eternal Life. Widely known to be an unobtainable myth, even for the long-lived elves and the all-powerful dragons. And then came Jamie. A young and promising werewolf from the prestigious Westley Werewolf Clan, finds himself entangled in a series of events that forever altered his existence. Ending up in the hands of a powerful witch, Jamie becomes the subject of a mysterious experiment, infused with the bloodline of vampires to create a Hybrid being of the two races. Among the Hybrids created by the witch, he alone stands as the only Perfect Hybrid. Throughout the ages, he rises to the top as one of the most powerful beings, living through countless eras, meeting and parting with many friends as well as witnessing the turning tides of history. Yet, this existence takes its toll, and Jamie occasionally subjects himself to self-imposed slumbers, allowing time to pass so he can embrace the future with new experiences upon waking. As he awakens from one of these slumbers, Jamie is thrust into a modern magi-technology-filled world that starkly contrasts with the ancient eras he once knew. With countless new experiences waiting for him. But things are never so simple. From the Vampires and Werewolves, who awakened him in their quest to overcome their racial weaknesses, to the other supernatural forces at play, their hidden agendas revolving around Jamie and his actions in the distant past. But most of all, three questions linger: Why was Jamie chosen by the Witch? What were their true intentions? And how would they affect Jamie, for better or worse? #wpc #wpcaugust #wpcaugust23 [Check out my other stories from my profile: Godslayer’s Legend & Reincarnated Hero System] ◇　◇　◇ Discord Link: https://discord.gg/ZXyAjGtS4r ◇　◇　◇ Support Me: https://ko-fi.com/michae_l ◇　◇　◇ DISCLAIMER! This novel is a work of fiction and though it draws inspiration from historical places and events, it is by no means meant to be a realistic representation of any current or historical events, places cultures, or people. The story may contain themes and events that may be disturbing to some people and if you are "triggered" by pretty much anything at all, It may not be suitable for you as I will not limit myself in terms of themes, events, or topics while writing.

After being wrongfully accused and killed, a young man reincarnates into a superhuman society as a third rate villain named Don, whose biggest asset is his side-kick with mental issues. With few options available to him, Don accepts the mantle of his predecessor and must now not only survive in a new and dangerous world, but also conquer it.... **Congratulations, you have died and awakened the Supervillain Idol System.** **The path to fame, fortune and world domination is yours is take!!** **Disclaimer**: This work of fiction is set in an alternate reality and is purely a product of the author's imagination. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or events is entirely coincidental. The author has taken creative liberties with historical, cultural, and geographical elements to craft a unique and fictional world. Names, characters, businesses, places, events, and incidents are either the product of the author's imagination or used in a fictitious manner. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental

Adam is an ordinary teenager who transmigrates into the body of François Boucher, a French soldier during the Seven Years' War. With no system to guide him and no knowledge of the historical events of this period, he must navigate this new life and struggle to survive.

[R18 - Mature content] Nina, an elite agent with mind-reading capabilities is sent to historical kingdom of another dimension as part of a mission. She takes over the body of Crown Princess Emilia Ravenswood who was unloved by her arranged husband, Crown Prince Alistair Velmont. In this world, Nina has changed her demeanor to be supportive towards Crown Prince Alistair Velmont, contrasting Emilia's original clingy and jealous personality. However, the kingdom is buzzing with gossip about the prince's love for Selene, Emilia's lady-in-waiting, causing concern for the royal bloodline and leading to an arranged "honeymoon" for the couple. Nina, as Emilia, has agreed to cooperate with Alistair and made a deal for him to marry Selene as his second wife after their royal duties are fulfilled. But, no one knows the "honeymoon" may provide an opportunity for a deeper relationship between Emilia and Alistair, possibly leading to an unexpected bond.

(*NO RAPE*) Kitanna stood still, not worried about the new person; she was worried about herself. The royal guard was shirtless and standing so close to her, with his body pinning hers. She was still trying to get her thoughts straight when she found herself being dragged onto the bed, with the guard on top of her. She raised her hands to push him, but he was faster. He caught both of her hands with one of his and pinned them above her head, using his other free hand to cover her mouth. Kitanna felt blood rush to her cheeks, and the next words she heard sent her world spinning in 3D. "Now, moan, princess..." Those words brushed against her ear, causing the hairs on her neck to stand. ......... Set in historical times, in the ancient kingdom of Morado. A young princess, Kitanna, enjoys life to the fullest, living every day like the princess she is. But after an incident, she is left to only trust herself and her instincts in the palace, which was filled with betrayals and corruption. A guard, who was trained to protect the crown, lived his life peacefully, killing when he was ordered to but never speaking to people around him until he crossed paths with the sassy and clumsy princess. Then everything changed. If you enjoy dark humors, royal romance and betrayals. Then this book is for you.

Lorelai is an unwanted princess; a puppet in the hands of the royal family. Born weak and raised loyal only to her kingdom, she has no real power and is constantly abused by both her stepmother and her son. Her value lies in one thing only––marriage. Thus, she is to marry Duke Kalder, an old but powerful and influential man whose previous wives have all gone missing under mysterious circumstances. That is until she meets him. Tall, dark, strong, mysterious, irresistible, seductive. The King of Lycans. The King of Beasts. The Gypsy King. One who was once a slave now controls the biggest and strongest, most feared kingdom of the continent. And for some reason, he has his eyes set only on Lorelai. Important note: this is a historical fantasy novel and in its context, the word "Gypsy" is only used as a name of a nomad tribe and is not used as a slur.

An amnesia patient Johnson Grey twenty three years old finds himself in a historical conspiracy.Framed by his only friend,and used couple of times. Johnson Grey's memories slowly return,friends turn to worst enemies and the being hunted down. Experience this historical fantasy fiction as single guy change history.

It was just a game; one Evan played way too much, but it was still a game in the end. At least it that’s what it was supposed to be... However, on the day the main quest ended, he discovered it was more than just a game. The world of Aidos was real and the demon threat was even more so. He was sent to be the leader of the new generation of heroes and save the world from the demon invasion by the god who made the game. Unfortunately, nothing was as simple as it may have seemed. As the truth behind the invasion and the previous Seven Heroes was slowly revealed, he began to have second thoughts about his choices. He began questioning if the demons were truly the enemies of Aidos. Even more so, when he discovered a new truth. That he may not actually be who he thought he was. #wsa2022 WSA 2022 Entry [Check out my other stories from my profile: Godslayer’s Legend & Beyond the Bloodline] ◇　◇　◇ Discord Link: https://discord.gg/ZXyAjGtS4r ◇　◇　◇ Support Me: https://ko-fi.com/michae_l ◇　◇　◇ I'm new to writing so I hope you all will support me on this journey. I'm hoping for your review on what you think about the book. Constructive criticisms are allowed too. Cover by KingU ◇　◇　◇ DISCLAIMER! This novel is a work of fiction and though it draws inspiration from historical places and events, it is by no means meant to be a realistic representation of any current or historical events, places cultures, or people. The story may contain themes and events that may be disturbing to some people and if you are "triggered" by pretty much anything at all, It may not be suitable for you as I will not limit myself in terms of themes, events, or topics while writing.

A man with a lifelong martial arts background, raised in Asia due to his family's profession, moves to the US for education and work. He discovers Historical Medieval Battles through a colleague and becomes deeply passionate about it. He trains hard and becomes skilled enough to represent his country. During a competition, his armor fails, and he's struck in the head with a two-handed axe, seemingly dying. But is this truly the end?"

one day zhou Qingqing was bound to " love system " due to car accident after being cheat by her boyfriend . system said if she clear the missions given by him. she can return to her world or grant one wish . In order to return home she start to complete the missions. later she discovered that her all missions targets were all freaking abnormal . First World murder male lead : xiao Qing do you want me to lock you up zhou Qingqing :no , why!!! murder male lead : then say I love you zhou Qingqing : I love you murder male lead : good girl Second World emperor : won't you take responsibility of me zhou Qingqing : but... emperor show her sword : you don't want to zhou Qingqing : no, I will take responsibility emperor smile : come here wifey Another w Marshal : will you marry me zhou Qingqing : why would I Marshal : oh, you want child first . let's make one zhou Qingqing : stop . I will marry you . . . . . . . Few worlds later zhou Qingqing : wuwuwu system I want to quite system : you jumped into the pit yourself A/N : English is not my first language, so if I make some mistakes. let me know, so I can correct them and thanks for reading my novel. Tags # System # Modern world # western # fantasy # Historical # vampire # cultivator # beastmen # mafia # demons # game # obsessive male lead # quick transmigration # game #zombies #ghost #CEO # survival.

This is the story of the Third Princess of Guoyuan, Lin Singhua, after she was captured by the Emperor of Meihua. When psychologically broken and tortured in the prisons, she remoulds herself into thinking she is tofu. This is an exploration of the mental state of a crushed captive, and of how Tofu mentally protects herself in order to survive by running away from herself and her own memories. In order to reflect Tofu's mindset, the complexity of language may change according to her mental state at the time. This story contains mature content and adult themes. It is not a romance or love story. More an exploration of Singhua's thoughts and psychology following the traumatic events in her life. Some areas may appear to be cut short or not explored in depth because as the author, when I immersed myself too deeply in Singhua's world it became unhealthy for my own mental state. Nevertheless, please feel free to make comment. The location is set in a fictional version of historical China, approximately during the time there were many warring kingdoms or states. It also has mixed up historical elements from different time periods. In order to reflect that this is in a roughly Chinese setting, some Pinyin names have been retained. This story is based upon a half-dream. The story has been completed. There will be no further updates. Feel free to inform me of any language errors I may have missed.

System gives mission to a student goes back in time to historical times and does missions Eventually will move to mythology and stuff

~Humans have heard and often times read of premonitions of the end some written in sacred books like the bible and other historical books and others spoken about by historians from across the world, but what befell humanity in the year 2024 was not the end they had read about but something more ominous. When rifts started appearing on earth connecting it to another planet across a more distant universe an entity appears and offers humans a chance for salvation; He who went by the name ADMINISTRATOR~ Nezro a young part- timer who lived out his days from work to sleeping and had always been disgusted by his reality, earnestly yearning for a way to break out of that rat race, is thrown into a series of uncanny events which forever changes his perspective of what humans really existed for and offered a viewpoint of the role he and a group of individuals had to play for the sake of their survival as well as the rest of mankind..........

I woke up to see myself stranded in a battlefield in WW2, and I could decide whether to spend six years of my life surviving a battlefield or find a way to end this war quickly, and enjoy my remaining years as a war vet. > > > > > > ps this is all fictional even though it replicates the events that happened on earth. some historical figures could also appear so if this offends you please reconsider before reading. Lastly this will not be an exact replica of what happened in the actual war, some situations will be dramatized whiles new scenarios will also be made. constructive criticism is accepted. release date 2 chps/ week

A company has recently established a mission. Parts of history about the world they live in have been long forgotten, either because knowledge has been lost throughout generations or because information has been terminated by an unknown cause. The company has been advancing in technology. They have gone so far as to create a time machine named "Voyager." Andy Smith is a combat agent who has been trained in close combat and marksmanship. He was one of the best in his field. He was sent an invitation by the company, stating that they were looking for “skilled individuals” for this type of mission. The invitation that was sent to Andy had written terms and potential risks that he agreed to in order to take part in the mission. He had agreed that the cause of his death would be his responsibility and that the company would not be liable for his death. He will be sent to a period of time in the past that was considered “unknown” because the events were unrecorded. His mission was to gather missing information from past events for scientific purposes and, potentially, historical discoveries. Unfortunately, due to the unrecorded events, the researchers have no information about whether this period is safe or not, and Andy would have to engage in the mission blind. He had agreed to take part in it, regardless of the risks.

[WSA 2024 ENTRY] [WARNING: MATURE CONTENTS AND SLOW BURN] Suzy, a 21st century real estate agent woman, finds herself inexplicably transported to a ruthless noble family in a bygone era. Thrust into the role of the ostracized Cassandra, Suzy grapples with navigating courtly intrigue and a loveless arranged marriage to a cold, by the book, calculating Duke, Ryan. As a mysterious figure surfaces, threatening the kingdom, Ryan is tasked on investigating the happenings around. Suzy uncovers a web of secrets that challenge everything she thought she knew about Cassandra. Can they solve the historical puzzle while facing their growing feelings for each other (the Duke who is already becoming head over heels for her) in a world determined to keep them apart? Dive into this captivating slow-burn romance woven with historical intrigue and suspenseful mystery. [SPOILER: He fell first, fell harder, fell madder and she fell later.]

Lady Rhea Montgomery, Countess of Riverian has the perfect life. A wonderful, powerful husband who rules his county with dignity and honour. Enough wealth to keep her dressed in the finest of silks and decked in jewels to enhance her radiant beauty. And people who love her as their beloved Countess. Life is perfect, until suddenly it isn't and Rhea loses everything to a woman younger and more capable. Becoming no one after being someone is almost too much to bear and just when Rhea resigns herself to her fate, along comes Lord Augustus Holloway, Duke of Ravenholm. Everything she has heard about the powerful and dangerous man says to stay away but his sweet fondness for her says otherwise. Augustus seduces Rhea into his frightening yet exciting world and leaves her questioning whether she could be someone without Lanon, and if her connection to him is worth the chaos it brings into her once peaceful life. Rhea had once been a merchant's daughter and then a Countess. If she played the game right, and she damn well will, she could become a Duchess or maybe even Queen. ____ Note: There is some confusion because of the language I use and the setting but please be aware that THIS IS NOT A HISTORICAL NOVEL. It's a mix between 19th/20th century society and values and modern day technological advances. Please keep that in mind so you don't go in with expectations that will not be met. If you're cool with that, go right ahead and enjoy.

Our story quietly opens at the dawn of the thirtieth century, a new era forged by the hammer of history. The earth, once a bright blue planet, is now scarred by war. The embers of nuclear winter turn to desert. However, humans did not give up. Beneath an oasis in central Australia, a magnificent underground city has been built - City of Hope. This underground city is the crystallization of human ingenuity and tenacity, the sunlight shines through the high-tech dome, and the green plants grow stubbornly along the streets, as if symbolizing the last stubbornness of nature. After 600 years of restoration, the surface is gradually coming back to life, but technological progress has been slow. Until a group of mysterious alien visitors - the Zeretas - show up, bringing advanced technology and restarting the rise of humanity. However, there are more mysteries behind this rebirth. Alex Carter's family has been secretly chosen to protect the historic site. However, Alex knew nothing about all this. A chance discovery uncovers his family's secrets and sets him on a fateful journey full of adventure and responsibility.

a historical self insert focusing on the Middle East, a more powerful Syria and a focus on the middle east geopolitics.

"Have some fun, love. The apocalypse has just begun," her mate chuckled as she let go of his hand and he fell down in the abyss of hell where the lifeless hands jerked him down, ripped his clothes, ruptured his frame, masticated his skin and drank his blood like a famished wild untamed beasts. "Sorry. But I need to survive this." Those reasoning barely escaped from her mouth as she toss over the scone of scorching fire on her mate's and his predator's dead bodies, completing the cremation ceremony and fulfilling the last task to survive the apocalypse and the hunt for limited breathes. A COASTAL TOWN UNKOWN SPECIES A VIRUS AN EPEDIMIC ONE SOLUTION BURN YOUR MATE -------------------- Liliane Lune Clyde works as a part-time security guard at the Northpass's archeology museum with her mate as the guide, Newt August Hawke. After the fall festival, the proposal for binding their souls by marriage was given before the satanic dead corpses rose from their graves at the strike of 12. Even though the citizens are descendants of werewolves but the dead can't be burn easily without a sacrifice. It's not a zombie hunt, rather it's a mate hunt. [TICK-TOCK-TICK] Kill yourself or your mate. Which you will choose, love? Certainly yourself...

This novel follows Qin Ying, a modern-day special forces armament expert, who unexpectedly finds himself transported to the Han Dynasty, where he becomes the ninth prince. Armed with his military expertise and strategic mind, Qin begins a remarkable journey of power, war, and ambition. From commanding the battlefield with fierce cavalry to captivating political players with his unmatched intellect, he uses his skills to carve out his place in a world of royal intrigue and treachery. The story kicks off with Qin’s realization of his newfound identity as a prince, leading to him shaking up the court with his unconventional ways. The first fifty chapters explore his rise to power—navigating deadly court politics, facing down formidable enemies, and even mastering the art of painting to impress the royal court. The stakes get higher as Qin confronts external threats like Wei Wang, a rival prince who aims to conquer the south, and internal schemes that challenge his resolve. With a combination of cunning, courage, and sheer force of will, Qin makes his mark as a feared and respected leader. His journey is filled with action, strategy, and the occasional moment of humor as he wins allies, defeats enemies, and creates a lasting legacy. This novel combines intense military conflict, political intrigue, and personal relationships, offering readers a thrilling story of one man's rise from soldier to ruler in a richly detailed historical setting.