MWSA Book Review

The Hero of Byzantium

Authors: Joseph Lessard

Publisher:  iUniverse

Reviewer: Bill McDonald – President of the MWSA

Based on the life of a Byzantine General

There are some stories that are written to become great epic tales – “The Hero of Byzantium” is on that short life of classic stories. Author Joseph Lessard takes a real life hero General Belisarius from the 6th century and enhances the plot, fills in characters, creates interaction between people and events so you end up with a bigger than life novel! It can only be done with the skill of a brilliant writer and Lessard has managed to covet that honor with his book.

The plot follows the life of our Christian General Belisarius as he leads his Roman Armies in successful battles. He is a real hero but things are not easy for him as he deals with a wife that he loves but who has been less than faithful. He also loses favor along the way and is sentenced to death but is saved to become a personal slave of his wife. He eventually overcomes lots of betrayal issues and proves his leadership again on the field of battle. I do not want to spoil the ending of the story but this book will take you all over the place emotionally.

This is good classic novel for an entertaining weekend reading experience; or cuddled up next to a fireplace during a long cold winter night. Put this on your reading list for adventure books with lots of class!