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Atlantis #4
Atlantis Gate (Volume 4) by Bob Mayer
It begins with ex-Green Beret Eric Danes's cataclysmic dream-of the earth engulfed in fire more than a quarter of a century ago. Is it a warning of things to come? Or a vision of what once was? And if the world's end came came in 1962, then where in the world are we today?
The answer lies in a war beyond time, with an enemy beyond space, in a military thriller beyond your wildest dreams.
The answer lies in a war beyond time, with an enemy beyond space, in a military thriller beyond your wildest dreams.
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First published August 6, 2002
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
February 22, 2016
Darn if I can explain why I like this series. Good ole sci-fi action might be one thing. This particular book was so fun to read because part of the story dealt with (in 480 BC) King Leonidas and his 300 Spartans to Thermopylae as they try to delay the massive Persian Army. Could not help but think of the Frank Miller comic series and the 300 movies. I just recently picked up the last two books (for free) in this series and plan to knock this out soon.
I am also returning to the Mission 51 series as well, just starting the 3rd book in that series:
.
I am also returning to the Mission 51 series as well, just starting the 3rd book in that series:
. 
May 14, 2025
Time travel meets parallel worlds...how is this series not famous!! Such good ideas!
January 14, 2016
The world is about to end. The multi-dimensional enemy known as the Shadow is about to devour the vary essence of earth unless two warriors can reach each other across the ages. One is Eric Dane, former Green Beret, and the hero of author Bob Mayer's Atlantis series. The other is King Leonidas, best known for leading 300 Spartans and other Greeks against a Persian army of more than one hundred thousand during the battle of Thermopylae in 480 BC. Leonidas must hold back the Persians to allow Dane time to battle his way through the Space Between dimensions and time and retrieve the only device that can stop the Shadow.
As improbable as this plot sounds, the author makes it work. Mayer has a particular talent for mixing historic fact with fiction—in this case science fiction. A multi-genre writer, all of Mayer's works are rooted in history, the kind of writing that sends readers like myself back to the history books to read more about the events he describes. His description of the battle of Thermopylae, though fictionalized, provides a realistic view of Spartan life and tactics.
Atlantis Gate is Mayer's fourth entry in his Atlantis series. There are at least two more books in the series. So the earth isn't safe—yet.
As improbable as this plot sounds, the author makes it work. Mayer has a particular talent for mixing historic fact with fiction—in this case science fiction. A multi-genre writer, all of Mayer's works are rooted in history, the kind of writing that sends readers like myself back to the history books to read more about the events he describes. His description of the battle of Thermopylae, though fictionalized, provides a realistic view of Spartan life and tactics.
Atlantis Gate is Mayer's fourth entry in his Atlantis series. There are at least two more books in the series. So the earth isn't safe—yet.
April 12, 2012
Another good, light read from the author of the Area 51 series. Action packed. Though I am not a big fan of the back and forth chapters between past and present. I feel he is just using the past chapters as fillers. That's just my opinion. But, I do look forward to Assault on Atlantis.
April 3, 2024
Atlantis Gate By Bob Mayer is very full of action, and is an excellent continuation of his Atlantis trilogy. I would recommend starting at the beginning with Atlantis, then reading Burmuda Triangle, then Devil's Sea, and then this one--Atlantis Gate. The story is far fetched, but hey, this is science fiction! It's a magnificent journey into another realm. I was so captivated, I read it in a few sittings.
In 1962, Poet Robert Frost hears mysterious voices, tries to warn the President Kennedy of the dangers of the Shadow before dying in a mysterious nuclear attack.
In 480 BC, King Leonidas leads his 300 Spartans on a dangerous mission to hold against the Persian army. Accompanying him is a Priestess who has another agenda, to save the world from the Shadow.
In present time, the Shadow is once again threatening the world and Eric Dane must travel to the space between and work with Amelia Earhart to discover how all of these time-lines matter to stop the attack
As improbable as all these plots sound, the author makes it work. Mayer has a particular talent for mixing historic fact with fiction—in this case science fiction. A multi-genre writer, all of Mayer's works are rooted in history, the kind of writing that sends readers like myself back to the history books to read more about the events he describes. His description of the battle of Thermopylae, though fictionalized, provides a realistic view of Spartan life and tactics.
Somehow this author takes all of these time-lines and manages to converge them together in a highly engrossing story. Surprisingly, even with all the times, the book is easy to follow and makes one interested in the actual history of these times. Although a bit far fetched Sci-fi (what Sci-fi isn't?), it still manages to hold my interest four books into the series.
This fourth entry was very well written with a fast paced interesting storyline. The author had numerous characters in various historical times going in severl story lines that merged at the end of the book. The characterization is really quite good for a science fiction action novel. The main character--Dane--is immensely likeable, and he's surrounded by other interesting characters. The parallel story line between the distant past and present made the book even more fascinating to me. There's also plenty of scientific fact and theory interspersed for plausibility.
I did enjoyed reading the book, but with so many characters I found myself lost or confused several times while reading. There are many characters to keep track of and I believe this book builds on previous books, so if you want to read it, I would suggest starting at the beginning of the series.
Overall I thought it was a good book. I like historical fiction (and can't get enough of stories involving Grecian heroes) but the time travel aspect just wasn't doing it for me. I found the book interesting but not enough where I would go back and read other books in the series.
In 1962, Poet Robert Frost hears mysterious voices, tries to warn the President Kennedy of the dangers of the Shadow before dying in a mysterious nuclear attack.
In 480 BC, King Leonidas leads his 300 Spartans on a dangerous mission to hold against the Persian army. Accompanying him is a Priestess who has another agenda, to save the world from the Shadow.
In present time, the Shadow is once again threatening the world and Eric Dane must travel to the space between and work with Amelia Earhart to discover how all of these time-lines matter to stop the attack
As improbable as all these plots sound, the author makes it work. Mayer has a particular talent for mixing historic fact with fiction—in this case science fiction. A multi-genre writer, all of Mayer's works are rooted in history, the kind of writing that sends readers like myself back to the history books to read more about the events he describes. His description of the battle of Thermopylae, though fictionalized, provides a realistic view of Spartan life and tactics.
Somehow this author takes all of these time-lines and manages to converge them together in a highly engrossing story. Surprisingly, even with all the times, the book is easy to follow and makes one interested in the actual history of these times. Although a bit far fetched Sci-fi (what Sci-fi isn't?), it still manages to hold my interest four books into the series.
This fourth entry was very well written with a fast paced interesting storyline. The author had numerous characters in various historical times going in severl story lines that merged at the end of the book. The characterization is really quite good for a science fiction action novel. The main character--Dane--is immensely likeable, and he's surrounded by other interesting characters. The parallel story line between the distant past and present made the book even more fascinating to me. There's also plenty of scientific fact and theory interspersed for plausibility.
I did enjoyed reading the book, but with so many characters I found myself lost or confused several times while reading. There are many characters to keep track of and I believe this book builds on previous books, so if you want to read it, I would suggest starting at the beginning of the series.
Overall I thought it was a good book. I like historical fiction (and can't get enough of stories involving Grecian heroes) but the time travel aspect just wasn't doing it for me. I found the book interesting but not enough where I would go back and read other books in the series.
March 12, 2024
Another fine tale mingling historical events with the broader story line
Me being a fan of Hellenic history loved the storyline about Leonitas and the battle of Thermopylae. The descriptions and details the author wrote seemed spot on to me.
As for the rest of the saga of the Lore of Atlantis, it is still well done and captivating. It moves between improbable situations to inconceivable scenarios with aplomb keeping us engrossed, rewarding us with more fantastical creations from Mayer's Mind.
I enjoyed this book as I have the previous Atlantis books. Mayer's mix of history, science (factual as well as fiction), and his fantasy storyline make for a creative story and a fun read.
Me being a fan of Hellenic history loved the storyline about Leonitas and the battle of Thermopylae. The descriptions and details the author wrote seemed spot on to me.
As for the rest of the saga of the Lore of Atlantis, it is still well done and captivating. It moves between improbable situations to inconceivable scenarios with aplomb keeping us engrossed, rewarding us with more fantastical creations from Mayer's Mind.
I enjoyed this book as I have the previous Atlantis books. Mayer's mix of history, science (factual as well as fiction), and his fantasy storyline make for a creative story and a fun read.
June 25, 2025
I read this book when I was 15 and it stuck in my head ever since. Mostly I remember that I saw 300 a few months later and thought it couldn’t measure up to this. However, I remember Amelia Earhart fighting at Thermopylae, which it turns out is not what happened in the book. Other than that it’s flawless.
December 27, 2016
This has to be the best so far in the series. Simply because of the description of the Spartans and their fighting tactics. They completely gave me chills!
February 3, 2018
A fascinating blend of history and fiction. Well done.
July 26, 2018
Answers, and more mystery!
Deeper into the rabbit hole with Mayer leading the way! Can't wait to read the next book in this series!
Deeper into the rabbit hole with Mayer leading the way! Can't wait to read the next book in this series!
July 18, 2020
Worth every word!
This is book 4 of 6, with each being better then the last. So many layers to the story it keeps you guessing the entire time. Can’t wait to finish the series.
This is book 4 of 6, with each being better then the last. So many layers to the story it keeps you guessing the entire time. Can’t wait to finish the series.
September 21, 2020
I was sort of disappointed in this one. Too much jumping back and forth in time so that when the finale occurred it didn't seem all that important. Not as good as some of the other ones.
November 11, 2020
Epic storyline
I really enjoyed the chacthers do I felt abit cheated on there deaths has other chacthers didn’t express emotions has much has I thought they should.
I really enjoyed the chacthers do I felt abit cheated on there deaths has other chacthers didn’t express emotions has much has I thought they should.
May 10, 2021
Great continuation of the story
June 29, 2022
Víc mě bavil návrat do Řecka, kdy ss mydlili Spartani s Peršanama, než ten zbytek, kterej byl strašně prekombinovanej.
January 27, 2023
Intense
This is the most intense installment so far. Another one that's hard to put down. Sad to see this one end.
This is the most intense installment so far. Another one that's hard to put down. Sad to see this one end.
February 1, 2023
Absolutely Amazing
I've read a lot of science fiction my 72 years but this by far BY FAR the best series ever.
I've read a lot of science fiction my 72 years but this by far BY FAR the best series ever.
July 20, 2023
Solid story. Kept me reading.
November 21, 2008
Atlantis Gate is the third book in a five part series by Greg Donegan (a pen name for Bob Mayer). As it is so far along in the series there is little time given for back story or character development. Gates start opening all around the world in the present and past and the Shadow start making their move.
I believe books should stand on their own even if they are part of a series. It isn't always possible to start at the beginning. Atlantis Gate doesn't live up to that standard. It may very well be good book having arrived at it after having read the previous two books. By itself, though, it is a choppy, disjointed narrative that is somewhere between mystery/thriller and science fiction.
The five part series is:
* Atlantis: Bermuda Triangle (2000)
* Atlantis: Devil's Sea (2001)
* Atlantis Gate (2002)
* Assault on Atlantis (2003)
* Battle for Atlantis (2004)
I believe books should stand on their own even if they are part of a series. It isn't always possible to start at the beginning. Atlantis Gate doesn't live up to that standard. It may very well be good book having arrived at it after having read the previous two books. By itself, though, it is a choppy, disjointed narrative that is somewhere between mystery/thriller and science fiction.
The five part series is:
* Atlantis: Bermuda Triangle (2000)
* Atlantis: Devil's Sea (2001)
* Atlantis Gate (2002)
* Assault on Atlantis (2003)
* Battle for Atlantis (2004)
December 31, 2016
Poet Robert Frost who also hears the voices, tries to warn the president of the dangers of the Shadow before going on a top secret mission.
In 480 BC, King Leonidas leads his 300 Spartans on a dangerous mission to hold against the Persian army. Accompanying him is a Priestess who has another agenda, to save the world from the Shadow.
In present time, the Shadow is once again threatening the world and Eric Dane must travel to the space between and work with Amelia Earhart to discover how all of these time-lines matter to stop the attack.
Somehow this author takes all of these time-lines and manages to converge them together in a highly engrossing story. Surprisingly, even with all the times, the book is easy to follow and makes one interested in the actual history of these times. Although a bit far fetched Sci-fi (what Sci-fi isn't?), it still manages to hold my interest four books into the series. I'm looking forward to the next book.
In 480 BC, King Leonidas leads his 300 Spartans on a dangerous mission to hold against the Persian army. Accompanying him is a Priestess who has another agenda, to save the world from the Shadow.
In present time, the Shadow is once again threatening the world and Eric Dane must travel to the space between and work with Amelia Earhart to discover how all of these time-lines matter to stop the attack.
Somehow this author takes all of these time-lines and manages to converge them together in a highly engrossing story. Surprisingly, even with all the times, the book is easy to follow and makes one interested in the actual history of these times. Although a bit far fetched Sci-fi (what Sci-fi isn't?), it still manages to hold my interest four books into the series. I'm looking forward to the next book.
November 14, 2013
A good and exciting novel like its predecessors. The plot is set at different times and places as usual. What I liked best this time is the character of the Spartan King Leonidas who the author developed with care and understanding. Of course, again it is a fight between good and bad, of bad superpowers and "weak" men who can only defend themselves against an anonymous timeless enemy by using extraordinary ingenuity, which makes them stronger than they think they are. On the time level of 480 B.C. this is mirrored by Leonidas' self-denying bravery and the absolute wickedness of Xerxes.
I, myself, this novel has a finale that could be a worthy ending to the series. Sure, this ending is in no way final.
I, myself, this novel has a finale that could be a worthy ending to the series. Sure, this ending is in no way final.
October 8, 2016
Can you imagine a story including the 300 Spartans in their epic battle and Amelia Earhart? This is it, and it makes sense once you learn how the Bermuda Triangle works, who's been using it in on-going actions to pillage Earth in an almost infinite number of alternative parallel worlds and how many of our time lines lead to destruction.
As you might imagine, it was a little hard to keep track of not only who's who, but when and where, who died in what time line but not this one, etc.. Even with this confusion, I was compelled to continue reading to find out what happens next...or happened already but differently in another parallel world. Hopefully, you're in the same time line as the author, if not, there's a good chance you won't...or didn't make it.
Review by THE HOLEY ONE
As you might imagine, it was a little hard to keep track of not only who's who, but when and where, who died in what time line but not this one, etc.. Even with this confusion, I was compelled to continue reading to find out what happens next...or happened already but differently in another parallel world. Hopefully, you're in the same time line as the author, if not, there's a good chance you won't...or didn't make it.
Review by THE HOLEY ONE
January 9, 2016
Parallel timelines of earth revealed.
Dane continues to search for ways to reach the Shadows portal. Going from this time to the "space between" to find answers and save his time. Answers come from the most amazing times and through the priest's of the Oracle. The Ones Before helping bring as together. Author Mayer brings in the Spartans and Egyptians and the priestess Cyra who is given the map through a portal who then passes it on to Dane. Interesting how the different times and timelines combine to bring a singular conclusion. Great read. Enjoy all in this series.
Dane continues to search for ways to reach the Shadows portal. Going from this time to the "space between" to find answers and save his time. Answers come from the most amazing times and through the priest's of the Oracle. The Ones Before helping bring as together. Author Mayer brings in the Spartans and Egyptians and the priestess Cyra who is given the map through a portal who then passes it on to Dane. Interesting how the different times and timelines combine to bring a singular conclusion. Great read. Enjoy all in this series.
August 16, 2016
The engrossing concept that spans these books becomes more wearing as each volume continues, with little or no resolution of the mysteries. That all said, this volume begins to lead to the resolution. I read my way through the entire series because of the obvious backstory to the Time Patrol series, but I find myself needing a vacation from the whole before going back to that story line. Still, each individual volume is a pleasant enough read, just not recommended as a "read through the entire series" project. Better over more time
July 5, 2013
If you've made it to this book, you've obviously read the first two. I actually thought this one was a bit better than number 2. I actually found the ancient battle storyline more interesting than the modern plot. I would have enjoyed more action centered around Kennedy and Robert Frost. I wouldn't recommend reading this book unless you've read 1 & 2.
December 7, 2014
After reading all six Atlantis books this is another Bob Mayer series that I loved. The Atlantis series is similar in style and approach as the Area 51 series where the author blends history with fiction seamlessly. The story line is great fun with the unknowns being slowly revealed over the course of the series into a conclusion that wraps up the series.
January 28, 2012
The review I provided for the previous book in this series applies here. The 6 books should have been combined into one or two at most and all of the repetitive stuff eliminated.
March 3, 2012
Finding this one hard work. The writing is very good, effective descriptions, good pace and easy to read, but the plot is ludicrous. This book is the first one in months that I actually gave up on.
June 27, 2016
Had the opportunity many years ago to attend writer's conference where Mr. Mayer gave a class. Interesting man--something reflected in his writings. I enjoyed this book as others by the author.
October 24, 2016
The author shows his knowledge of military hardware and tactics. As noted before there errors that happened either from the digital transfer or mistyped.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews