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When I was younger I was a psychiatrist as well as a rug collector and dealer. I traveled to the East to learn more about carpets and the people who made them. I was exposed to cultures that preserved much from their past.
I developed an interest in how and why states form. I wanted to write books that explored the characters of people who created civilizations. I wanted to come to grips with what makes leaders tick. I suppose this comes back to my training as a psychiatrist.
The Orfeo series is designed for audiences young adult and up. Unlike some modern books set in the "heroic age" they have little sex and violence. I hope they convey the spirit of the Bronze Age and not our age!
Reviewed by Cheryl E. Rodriguez for Readers' Favorite
The Emperor of Babylon by Murray Lee Eiland Jr. is the continuing story of Orfeo. Orfeo is married to Clarice and has settled down to a peaceful life in Pylos. However, this is short lived. He learns that Zurga, his mentor, has been imprisoned. Zurga is being held captive by Nurim Sin, the wicked King of Babylon. Nurim Sin wants something that Zurga can’t give him. This doesn’t negate the endless wave of repetitive questions launched at him on a daily basis. The malicious king is relentless. Orfeo and Clarice are determined to rescue Zurga. They separate, taking different paths to find their friend. As they travel, they gather a team of comrades. Orfeo recruits a band of young warriors, and Clarice a group of entertainers. Boldly they enter the palace, but none of them saw coming what happens next. Even in defeat, Nurim Sin’s arm has a powerful reach. He will not easily give up his throne. The question echos throughout the land; who will be The Emperor of Babylon? Friend or foe?
Murray Lee Eiland Jr.’s The Emperor of Babylon stays true to the molding of its main character, Orfeo. This narrative carries the young hero down the path of maturity. In the first book, The Sword of Telemon, Orfeo transforms from a misfit outcast shepherd boy into a beloved warrior wanderer. Throughout this book, the protagonist reveals more clarity and depth of character as he embarks to rescue his mentor. Although a proven warrior, Orfeo has yet to prove himself as a man. He remains full of questions and philosophical ideas. As for the leading lady, her lesson learned and applied is keep your friends close, but your enemies closer.
The text is written somewhat matter of factly. The action of the plot is almost methodical; step by step the characters journey to reach their goal. However, there was one thing that really stood out and that was the portrayal of the power and persuasion of a song. In the narrative it proved to be an effective tool of manipulation, adding a bit of a cunning twist to the story. Overall, it was an enjoyable read and would appeal to a young adult audience. The Emperor of Babylon echoes the truth that finding one’s destiny is a battle of experiences and inner turmoil. Only those that remain true to self will discover their purpose in life.
