When I see Wilbur Smith described as a "global phenomenon" I think nothing could be more factual. This man has churned out so many amazing, well-developed novels, and this one proves to be the same. His writing is never stale, and the plot moves along just perfectly. After reading this First Look, I love the Courtney family just as much as ever. This is a setting and time-period that I've not read much of, so I'm anxiously awaiting this novel's arrival on the literary scene. Way to go, Mr. Smith!