Sunset in Bronze

Drawing on decades of archaeological and philological discoveries, Archaeologist R Jay Driskill , presents a comprehensive history of the Hittite Empire. Once a forgotten civilization, the Hittites emerged from obscurity to stand as a formidable power in the ancient Near East, rivaling Egypt, Babylonia, and Assyria.In "Kings of Stone: The Hittite Enigma," Driskill synthesizes a century of groundbreaking research, offering readers an accessible yet scholarly exploration of this enigmatic people. From their origins in the early second millennium BCE to their ultimate collapse around 1180 BCE, witness the rise and fall of an empire whose innovations in military strategy, diplomacy, and law profoundly shaped the ancient world.Driskill, whose fascination with the Hittites began with their paradoxical nature-central to ancient Near Eastern politics yet peripheral to historical consciousness-integrates the latest archaeological findings with meticulous translations of key cuneiform texts. Discover their unique Indo-European language, their adaptation of Mesopotamian cuneiform, and the intricate details of their society, religion, and daily life."Kings of Stone" traces the arc of Hittite civilization through its imperial phase under rulers like Suppiluliuma I and Ḫattušili III, whose influence stretched from the Aegean Sea to the Euphrates River. Explore their capital at Hattuša, delve into their diplomatic achievements, and unravel the mystery of their sudden disappearance during the tumultuous "Sea Peoples" period.This book is an essential read for anyone intrigued by ancient civilizations, offering a vivid and authoritative account of the Hittites' enduring legacy. R Jay Driskill is an archaeologist and an ardent explorer of history's deepest mysteries, bringing ancient worlds to life through compelling non-fiction and fiction. With a background rooted at the University of Florida, Driskill meticulously researches each story, blending scholarly insight with thrilling narratives that transport readers across millennia.Whether you're fascinated by ancient civilizations, historical fiction, or thrilling archaeological mysteries, R Jay Driskill offers meticulously crafted stories that entertain, educate, and keep you turning pages late into the night.Explore his books today and embark on an adventure through time!Read more at rjaydriskill.comIf you enjoyed Kings of Stone, please review at your vendor of choice.

Unraveling History's Greatest Maritime MysteryWho were the mysterious Sea Peoples who brought down the Bronze Age world? For over a century, archaeologists and historians have debated the identity of these enigmatic raiders who appeared from the Mediterranean around 1200 BCE, toppling empires and reshaping civilization itself.In this groundbreaking investigation, archaeologist R Jay Driskill combines decades of fieldwork with cutting-edge research to reveal the true story behind one of history's most dramatic collapses. Drawing on newly discovered evidence from Egypt to Greece, from Cyprus to Syria, Raiders of the Bronze Age Collapse transforms our understanding of this pivotal moment when the ancient world burned.What You'll Discover:The real identities of the Peleset, Sherden, and other Sea Peoples groupsHow multiple factors triggered the first great civilization collapseNew archaeological evidence from Philistine settlementsThe dramatic naval battles recorded on Egyptian temple wallsWhy the interconnected Bronze Age world proved so vulnerableHow destruction led to innovation and cultural rebirthDriskill masterfully weaves together archaeological discoveries, ancient texts, and environmental data to reveal the Sea Peoples not as simple invaders, but as both victims and agents of systemic collapse. Their story becomes a lens for understanding how climate stress, political instability, and population movements can bring down even the mightiest civilizations.From the burning palaces of Mycenaean Greece to the final desperate letters from Ugarit, from Ramesses III's great victory reliefs to the rise of the biblical Philistines, this book brings the Bronze Age collapse to vivid life. You'll witness the fall of the Hittite Empire, follow Egyptian naval battles against mysterious ships with bird-head prows, and explore how survivors built new societies from civilization's ashes.More than just ancient history, Raiders of the Bronze Age Collapse offers urgent lessons for our own interconnected world facing climate change and systemic challenges. In an age of global uncertainty, understanding how past civilizations navigated collapse and renewal has never been more relevant.Perfect for readers of:Eric Cline's 1177 B.C.David Reich's Who We Are and How We Got HereRebecca Wragg Sykes's KindredMary Beard's SPQRExperience the most dramatic transformation in ancient history through the eyes of the people who lived it. The Sea Peoples' story will forever change how you see the rise and fall of civilizations. R Jay Driskill is a professional archaeologist and bestselling author who transforms ancient mysteries into captivating narratives that educate and entertain. With academic credentials from the University of Florida and extensive fieldwork experience, Driskill brings authentic archaeological expertise to every page.Specializing in historically accurate fiction and immersive non-fiction, Driskill's works have earned praise for their meticulous research, vivid storytelling, and ability to make complex historical concepts accessible to modern readers. Each book combines rigorous scholarship with page-turning adventure, offering readers both entertainment and genuine insight into humanity's fascinating past.Perfect for readers who enjoy:Dan Brown's historical thrillersJames Rollins' archaeological adventuresMary Beard's engaging historical narrativesIndiana Jones-style exploration and discoveryWhether you're a history enthusiast, archaeology buff, or simply love a well-crafted story, R Jay Driskill delivers meticulously researched narratives that will keep you engaged from first page to last.Start your journey through time today – explore the complete collection and discover why readers call these books "unputdownable."Visit rjaydriskill.com for exclusive content and upcoming releases.