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Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite
Jay Perin's series One Hundred Years of War spans decades from the 1970s through political upheaval and the relentless pursuit of power in the energy sector. In the five-novel lead-up to The Spanish Sacrifice, Senator Temple's misstep allows a criminal to seize control, sparking a struggle among the deeply pocketed and influential Kingsleys, Sheppards, and Barrons. As criminal oilman Jared Sanders eyes the presidency in the 1980s, Temple unites with oil dynasty heirs to thwart his ambitions. However, Temple's presidency is marred by global unrest and internal strife, leading to the collapse of his oil empire and an attempt on his life that leaves him mute. Treason accusations haunt as Temple's chosen heir, Lilah, fights to dismantle the corrupt oil network and balance treacherous alliances. Now, as Godwin Kingsley's influence looms large, Temple endeavors to rectify his past mistakes before his time runs out.
I'm not new to the One Hundred Years of War series by Jay Perin, and I was thrilled when The Spanish Sacrifice landed in my lap. Perin excels in rich characterization, starting with Temple's internal conflict with mortality despite his past as a formidable politician and war leader, tinged with a dose of survivor's guilt. His pursuit of redemption juxtaposes Lilah's struggle with loyalty and betrayal with the broader context of geopolitical conflict, ethical considerations, and the consequences of past decisions. There's a quote that sums this aspect of the penultimate episode up perfectly when it says: “In this saga, you will find men and women seeking the purpose of their existence. You will hear about their actions, both honorable and dishonorable... At the end of it all, you will hope for their redemption.” Perin plays into the settings by using pop culture like cell phones that clip onto waistbands and a school dance with Britney Spears blazing, but lays the tension on top of it thick with a high body count, not all dying the way initially believed. The writing is on point and the pacing races forward, and while I look forward to seeing how everything falls into place, I sure as heck will be sorry to see the series end. Very highly recommended.
