Book Review: Artillerymen by Taylor Anderson
As a passionate reader of alternate history fiction, I was immediately drawn to Artillerymen, the fourth book in the series by Taylor Anderson. The premise of Colonel Lewis Cayce and his soldiers, who find themselves grappling with the terrifying might of the Dominion in a world far from 1847 America, piqued my interest. Having enjoyed Anderson’s previous works, I was excited to dive into this gripping tale of survival, strategy, and the struggle against tyranny.
This novel effectively captures the reader’s attention with its rich tapestry of characters and the overwhelming challenges they face. One of the highlights of the story is the creativity in its world-building. The descriptions of the Dominion’s stronghold and the various magical and monstrous elements are vivid and haunting, setting a perfect backdrop for the intense conflict that unfolds. Colonel Cayce’s strategic intellect and moral compass are also effectively portrayed, showcasing his determination to secure freedom for both his soldiers and their indigenous allies. It’s a type of complexity that keeps you invested in the characters and their fates.
On the positive side, I found the pacing of the novel to be quite engaging. Each chapter had me on edge, particularly as Cayce and his forces go into the heart of enemy territory. The action sequences are well-crafted, pulling me into the fray and ensuring that I felt the gravity of every battle. Readers seeking adrenaline-pumping excitement will not be disappointed—I was left breathless at several key moments.
Additionally, Anderson artfully intertwines themes of sacrifice and moral ambiguity, which provide depth beyond the action. The challenging decisions Cayce faces regarding the possible elevation of a new “Supreme Holiness” seeking to temper the Dominion’s brutal ways mirror real-world dilemmas of power and governance. This nuanced exploration adds a layer of richness to the plot, making it more than just a conventional battle tale.
However, the book is not without its drawbacks. Readers looking for fully fleshed-out character arcs might find some characters lacking development. While Cayce shines, I sometimes felt that some supporting characters fell flat or became somewhat interchangeable. This may leave readers craving more depth and insight into their motivations and backgrounds.
Another aspect that could use improvement is the resolution of certain plot points. While I appreciate a gripping cliffhanger as much as the next reader, some elements felt rushed towards the end, leaving me with lingering questions about the fate of various characters and the broader implications of the war. I found myself wanting more closure, especially given the build-up throughout the novel.
In terms of expectations based on the official book description, Artillerymen definitely delivered on its promise of high-stakes conflict and a fight against overwhelming odds. The challenges that Cayce faces with his troops and the moral conundrums he must navigate truly kept me invested. The line between victory and defeat becomes intriguingly blurred, and I eagerly turned pages to see how this complex dance would play out.
In conclusion, Taylor Anderson’s Artillerymen is a gripping entry into the realm of alternate history that blends action, moral complexity, and unique world-building. While it has some shortcomings in character development and plot resolution, its strengths in pacing and thematic depth more than compensate for these flaws. For readers who appreciate a mix of military strategy and fantastical elements, this book is a worthy addition to your shelf. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for an engaging read that sparks the imagination. All in all, I would rate it a solid 4.5 out of 5.