Conqueror: A Novel of Kublai Khan by Conn Iggulden

Conn Iggulden's Conqueror: A Novel of Kublai Khan is a sweeping historical epic about one of the most influential leaders of all time – Kublai Khan. The novel is told from the perspective of the Khan himself and captures his struggles as he fights to unify all of China under one banner. Through his journey, readers are able to follow Kublai’s triumphant rise to power, his complex relationships with those around him, and the challenges he faces while navigating both the physical and political realms.

The novel begins with the birth of Kublai Khan in 1215. He is the fourth son of Genghis Khan and is named after his grandfather, Kublai. Despite his quiet, unassuming nature, Kublai is determined to make a name for himself. To this end, he learns the language of his father’s enemies – Chinese – and quickly rises through the ranks of the Mongol army. After Genghis Khan’s death, Kublai carries on his legacy, setting forth on a mission to unite China under one banner.

Kublai faces immense challenges as he tries to dominate the entirety of China. The powerful leaders of the regions he is trying to conquer, as well as his own brother, oppose him at every turn. As he continues to conquer new lands, he also struggles to create harmony amongst his own people. He creates a strong relationship with Marco Polo, and the young explorer’s stories fuel Kublai’s desire to explore the world outside of the territories he has already taken. Through his conversations with Polo, Kublai receives a unique perspective on the people of the world and begins to develop a certain understanding and respect for the people and cultures of each region.

Kublai’s reign proves to be one of great progress and enlightenment, and he forces the idea of a unified China down the throat of every opponent. He forges a strong and unified government, creates unprecedented advancements in trade, and successfully unites China under one banner. He also creates an open trade route to Europe that facilitates a cultural exchange between the two worlds, unlocking a new era of understanding and knowledge.

However, Kublai’s vision is not without its own complexities. He finds himself increasingly drawn to the opulence of his empire and begins to lose sight of the principles that he and his grandfather stood for. This is only further complicated when an assassination attempt threatens his life, and Kublai must decide whether he should rely on brutal force or attempt to find some sort of peace.

Iggulden’s novel is a captivating tale of one of history’s great leaders. Through Kublai Khan, readers can piece together a complete picture of a powerful and complex ruler. Iggulden captures the intricacies of Kublai’s mind, showcasing his ambition and determination as well as his struggles and defeats. In the novel’s conclusion, readers gain an even greater understanding of the man who rose to power and went down in history as one of the greatest conquerors of all time.