In The Lion Of Cairo

History and fantasy nuts should find an amazing middle ground with The Lion of Cairo. It's set between the Second and Third Crusade, and it's clear Oden has done his research. Assad is a trained assassin, sent by his master to Cairo not to kill, but to protect a young ruler. Unfortunately, there's a necromancer in his way, and he has his own group of assassins. The entire book takes place over the course of a few days, and it feels like it. There's an incredibly fast pace, with little room to breathe amid the fighting and politics. Somehow, Oden manages to keep the quality high despite this. a number of perspectives, you care about each character and their personal journey. Fight scenes are realistic and quick, descriptions vivid and beautiful. The book is an excellent ode to greats like Robert E. Howard and Michael Chabon. Read if you like: Historical fiction, Robert E. Howard, sword and sorcery.