Shiang (Vol. 2 Empire of Salt)

Conn Iggulden, the master of historical fiction, returns with the second volume of his fascinating Empire of Salt trilogy. Once again, the city of Darien is at risk of attack. But this time, the threat is foreign. If Shiang's stones could speak, they would call for war, and if warriors could hear them, they would obey.

A young king rules Shiang, a city known for its Mazer swordsmen, warriors who maintain order in the kingdom. Four of their finest masters head west, bound for Darien. The mission of Hondo, the holy swordsman, and his companions is to bring back a fugitive to be punished for past crimes.

However, without some of his finest warriors, the king faces a new threat: four men resurrected by a stone. With the help of a magic that had lain dormant for centuries, these individuals wreak havoc in the streets, and something terrible overwhelms Shiang. Shortly afterward, however, they receive a call to abandon Shiang and, like the Mazer swordsmen, head west.

Meanwhile, in Darien, two years after the attack during the Harvest Night Festival, the city rebuilds its defenses. The reason for all the preparations is a prophecy: when the snow falls, a black wave will crash against its walls, bringing chaos and destruction.

Once again, a battle will be fought within the city walls, and once again the Twelve Families of Darien must unite. In this war, weapons—and magic—will crown a victor.

“A master storyteller.” – Sunday Express

“Iggulden is on another level.” – Daily Mirror

“One of our finest historical romance writers.” – Daily Express