Golden Lion by Wilbur Smith and Giles Kristian
Golden Lion is a historical adventure novel by Wilbur Smith, co-authored with Giles Kristian. It follows Captain Hal Courtney through pirate-threatened waters of the Indian Ocean, with family conflict and revenge set against the late seventeenth-century Courtney saga.
At a glance
- Follows Hal Courtney as captain of the Golden Bough after a truce ends the Anglo-Dutch naval war.
- The story ranges from Zanzibar's slave markets to pirate-riddled Indian Ocean waters, with a personal enemy seeking revenge.
- Presented as part of the Courtney family saga, whose novels span generations and locations in Africa.
Reference price: $27.99
Price checked: 14 Nov 2026
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Pros and cons
Pros
- A substantial 416-page story for readers seeking an extended historical adventure.
- Customer feedback describes the book as easy to read and action-filled, with positive comments about its writing.
Technical specifications
8 specifications| Publisher | HarperCollins AU |
|---|---|
| Publication date | 21 March 2016 |
| Language | English |
| Print length | 416 pages |
| ISBN-10 | 0732298253 |
| ISBN-13 | 978-0732298258 |
| Weight listed | 280 g |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 12.8 x 2.6 x 19.9 cm |
What to know before buying
Listing details to confirm
The listing describes the story in differing historical terms, placing it in the late seventeenth century and also referring to the mid-seventeenth century. Treat the precise setting period as inconsistent in the listing.
Who is it for?
A good fit for
- Readers of historical sea adventures and action-led fiction.
- Readers interested in the Courtney family saga and stories set around African and Indian Ocean locations.
Less suited to
- Readers seeking a short book or a story without violent conflict and revenge themes.
Customer reviews on Amazon
- 5 stars
42% 42% - 4 stars
32% 32% - 3 stars
16% 16% - 2 stars
6% 6% - 1 star
4% 4%
Customer feedback highlights readability, action and positive impressions of the writing, while reactions to the story are mixed, with some finding it beautifully crafted and others finding the storyline uncompelling. For readers looking for an accessible, action-led historical adventure, the reported ease of reading may matter, but the divided story response suggests the narrative itself may not suit everyone.
Positive themes
- Customers describe the book as easy to read and exciting, with plenty of action.
- The writing receives positive feedback.
Mixed feedback
- Reactions to the storyline differ, with some customers praising it and others finding it uncompelling.
Frequently asked questions
Who are the authors of Golden Lion?
The listing credits Wilbur Smith and co-author Giles Kristian.
What is Golden Lion about?
It follows Captain Hal Courtney through sea adventures and personal conflict after a truce ends a naval war.
How long is the book?
The listing gives a print length of 416 pages.
Is the historical period stated consistently?
No. The listing refers both to the late seventeenth century and to the mid-seventeenth century, so the exact period is unclear.
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