Hercules: Legendary Journeys: Serpent's Shadow

I could be wrong but I think this is the first of the Timothy Boggs H:TLJ novels to actually have Hercules paired with his best buddy, Iolaus. And - if I do say so myself - it was about time! "Serpent's Shadows" is fun read. The duo are faced with a multitude of problems, not the least being a sea serpent who has a thing about chewing on pretty maidens. It's an enjoyable read about our heroes, as a team, doing what they do best. The dialogue is typical between characters, if a little predictable, but warming. Hercules has his god-family problems and Iolaus gets the attention of a beautiful girl who, unfortunately for the stressed hunter-warrior, sees him as a perfect marital prospect. The final battle with the serpent is well written. You can almost feel the splash of salt water and the mental and physical strain that is put on both Herc and Iolaus. If you're interested in reading these tie-in books I suggest this be your first -- It's the best.

The characterizations of both Hercules and Iolaus were quite well done. Iolaus's fun-loving nature leads to some refreshingly light-hearted moments. The plot, too,is very interesting, introducing another of the gods with whom Hercules has a relationship of sorts, Poseidon.