The Conqueror [Mass Market Paperback]

And a "Mary Sue" is exactly how to describe this book! It had me rolling my eyes so often I thought they were going to spin right out of my head! Much of the plot was laughable, with Roxanne needing rescuing far too many times, and Alexander's near obsessive attraction to her was simply unbelievable. Without revealing any spoilers, I will say that the author clearly projected herself into her Xena-like heroine, and stretched all plausibility by not only making her a fair-skinned redhead (like herself), but by also giving her far too much importance in Alexander's life, putting her front and center into very significant events where the real Roxanne probably played no role. (Of course, in all fairness, without this inflated role we would have a rather boring Roxanne-related book.) More often than not her Alexander wasn't a terribly likeable character, and I only found myself reading it to the end just to find out how many times the author would change known historical facts just to suit her plot. This is not a book I would place on an Alexander 'must-read' list, except for *really* die-hard romance fans, as the author did follow the usual schlock romance formula.

And Alexander was a blonde, so what's with the brunette on the cover?? Just one more historical inaccuracy that had me shaking my head!

This novel about the alliance between Alexander the Great and Princess Roxanne of Persia is filled with colorful descriptions of opulent court life, the beauty of the area, the perils of war, and Alexander's military genius and his relentless passion for building his empire by conquering the world. At the heart of the novel is the sensual love affair that weaves a brilliant tapestry of history, love and adventure that keeps the reader enthralled from beginning to end. This is the kind of book you can't put down.

Ms. French paints a glorious picture of the times that brings history to life as she delves into the relationship between Alexander and Roxanne, Alexander's famous companions, Roxanne's family and followers and the treachery therein. Plots against Roxanne's life are numerous. After a while you will think the woman has nine lives. I loved the ending. There is no doubt in my mind that Judith French is one hell of a storyteller. THE CONQUEOR is a story that flows effortlessly and is highly entertaining as well as informative.

Suzanne Coleburn, Reader To Reader Reviews