2nd volume in the author's 2nd Punic war trilogy. Very readable. Excellent description of the Battle of Cannae. Can be read as a standalone. Story told by three points of view: Hanno, a Carthaginian, Quintus and Aurelia, Roman brother and sister. Aurelia was annoying, a typical adolescent. ( )

This was another enjoyable book by Ben Kane, taking forward the story of both Hanno and Quintus in the lead up to the Battle of Cannae in 216 BC. What is very clear is what a major tactician Hannibal was and that he out thought and out fought the Romans, and they took a beating which shock the Empire to its foundations. I will be very interested to see how the story ends in the final part of the Trilogy, which I am eager to read. I love the way Ben Kane weaves in the everyday story of people around the main events. Would definitely recommend. ( )

This novel follows on directly where Hannibal: Enemy of Rome leaves off. Hanno is with the Carthaginian army. Quintus is with the Roman cavalry, and his sister Aurelia is waiting at home with her mother for her betrothed to return from battle so they can be married. Will Hanno and Quintus face each other in battle?

Ben Kane did an excellent job in this novel drawing me straight back into the lives and problems of the main characters. The historical note at the end of the book indicates that very little from actual history has been changed for the purpose of his story, a fact that I really appreciate.

This is not the final in the series. I could sense this as I approached the end of the book. The third one must be in progress as the title is mentioned in the authors note - Hannibal: Clouds of War. I will definitely be reading that one when it comes out. ( )