The Eye of the Falcon
Joan Fallon is an author I have had the great pleasure of reading before, and once again I wasn’t disappointed. The Eye of the Falcon is set in Muslim Spain at the end of the tenth century and is the second in a series of novels, although it can be read as a stand-alone.
Following the death of his father, the eleven-year-old Khalifa is left to rule the rich and vast domain of al-Andalus. However, a ruthless regent and a scheming mother seek to take control in the name of the young caliph, and the break-down of a historic and powerful dynasty begins.
Based around real events, this book magically and effectively brings a story rich in intrigue, to life. Using evocative language Joan Fallon provides the reader with the sounds, smells and visuals of a lifestyle long since lost in history. The characters come across as varied and lifelike and the story was easy to follow but gripping enough to make me want to keep going chapter after chapter.
My only complaint is that I felt the ending was a little weak. Perhaps this is because there is another in the saga to follow? More of a cliff-hanger would perhaps entice readers onward? Although disappointing I still thoroughly enjoyed the whole thing.
Another thumbs up for Joan Fallon.
