 Great Book!
A wonderfully researched and detailed account of the Spanish settlement of Peru that somehow reads like a riveting page turner. It's rare that I can race through a well-researched and documented book so quickly. "Last Days" told me tons of stuff I never knew. How did 168 Spaniards conquer 10 million Incas? I'd always wondered, but this book explains it. (I read it after I read "Guns, Germs, and Steel," which I think complements this book nicely). A terrific read that I looked forwards to every day for the last two weeks. Highly recommended.
 I felt like I was watching an one dimensional history documentary
The incredible Spanish conquest of the Inca empire is fascinating. How could 100 men take on 100,000 Inca warriors? MacQuarrie lays out the answer in a very clear and concise manner. Still, I felt like I was watching an one dimensional history documentary. Half way through I realized, "I'm not emotionally vested with either side!" For the most part, rich detail is lacking in her story-telling. Contrary to that last statement, MacQuarrie would occasionally blurt out an imagined micro detail, "his golden medallion earrings must have glistened in the hot sun as he inspected his men." Pick a lane MacQuarrie! A final confession that further tainted my review, my terrible name memory left me confused by the many Peruvians that were introduced.
History comes alive
I first read a copy of this book when I was beginning my research into the Inca Empire a few years ago, and I am glad that I did - this is a fantastic book that details the compelling, yet ultimately tragic, story of the end of the once powerful civilisation. "The Last Days of the Incas" focusses on the period following the Spanish arrival to Peru in 1532, and describes in vivid detail the engaging history of the last few decades of Inca resistance to European invasion, culminating in the retreat to Vilcabamba and ultimate end following its destruction in 1572. What struck me most about this book was the way in which the history was portrayed in such a manner that the reader feels compelled to it and the historical characters involved, feeling drawn into the story that - had it not actually happened - would have been a masterful work of fiction. The final chapters add to the story by allowing the reader to be transported from the violence and conquest of the 16th century to the discovery of the 20th; and by gaining a detailed insight into how relatively recent discoveries by Hiram Bingham, Gene Savoy and Vincent Lee and their re-discovery of the site of Vilcabamba at Espiritu Pampa, the reader is left with a wonder of the Inca Empire and the thrilling story of modern exploration and discovery in the once thriving Inca heartland. Overall, a detailed and compelling piece of work that speaks volumes about the final years of the Incas, and a greatly contemporary and relevant book for all readers; ranging from those who want to simply be told a gripping story, to those wanting to start or further their own research of the Incas.
 Historical figures come alive
Like a majority of others who have reviewed this book, I loved it; the best since Ferling's Almost a Miracle. MacQuarrie brings important historical figures come to live in his narrative of the Spanish invasion of the Inca empire. The only flaw I see in this book is the lack of maps and photos. I like to see who I am reading about and not everyone knows South America's geography; where is Vilcabamba in relation to Cusco. Overall, I thought this is an excellent and easy to read book about a tragic period in history.
Honest History
I absolutely loved this book. Historically accurate and very interesting. I recommend this book even for people who are only slightly interested in the story of the Incas. Once you are done reading this book, you'll be wishing for a follow up book.
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