Destiny's Shield (Belisarius) - Softcover

The writing tandem of Flint and Drake still proves strong--relative newcomer Flint (Mother of Demons) seems well-paired with military-SF powerhouse Drake, creator of "the meanest bunch of mercs who ever nuked a world for pay" (that'd be Hammer's Slammers, natch). The two offer up their usual dose of meticulous historical detail and realistic, mud-and-blood combat and tactics. Throw in some time-bending fun like Belisarius's "invention" of the Knights Hospitaler and phrases like "fire in the hole," and you know you're in for a good time. (Of course, if you're new to the series, check out the first book, An Oblique Approach.) --Paul Hughes

The Malwa Empire squats like a toad across 6th century India. The people who command the Malwa bureaucracy and armies are cruel, ruthless men with depraved appetites which their power permits them to indulge to the full.

The thing from the distant future that commands them is far worse.

AN ADVISOR WITHOUT A BODY

Those who oppose the pustulent Hell the Malwa will make of Earth have sent a crystal, Aide, to halt their advance. Aide holds all human knowledge -- but Aide cannot act by himself.

A CHAMPION FOR ALL TIMES

Count Belisarius, the greatest general of Byzantium and perhaps the greatest of all time, must defeat the Malwa and the enemies of humankind which direct the evil empire.

With Aide's advice --

With the support of Empress Theodora --

With the courage and ruthless skill of his wife Antonina --

And with a few thousand of the best soldiers in the world, Belisarius must face the Malwa invaders beyond Rome's borders. Maneuvering through Mesopotamia in unfamiliar terrain and the risk of doubtful allies, Belisarius must outwit powerful enemies -- and then, when there is no longer room to maneuver, to meet them sword-edge to sword-edge.