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The Athenian Murders
Detectives in Greece struggle to solve multiple murders—and confront a shadowy group claiming that the goddess Athena is behind the carnage . . .
After an unidentified body is found at the Temple of Hephaestus, arranged to resemble the myth of Athena’s birth, officers Michail Mikras and Katerina Galanis are assigned to the case, led by a senior detective recently transferred from London. Amid growing media coverage, a group calling itself The Awakening puts out ominous social media posts, claiming that this crime proves the goddess Athena has returned to “cleanse” the city of Athens.
With each new corpse, the mania grows—chants of “Athena is arisen” ring out; a rabble-rousing newspaper suggests that the goddess is purifying the city by getting rid of immigrants; graffiti of axes and snakes start to appear. As raucous rallies spring up throughout the city, the team of investigators must solve the case to break the spell before an unimaginable horror comes to pass . . .
After an unidentified body is found at the Temple of Hephaestus, arranged to resemble the myth of Athena’s birth, officers Michail Mikras and Katerina Galanis are assigned to the case, led by a senior detective recently transferred from London. Amid growing media coverage, a group calling itself The Awakening puts out ominous social media posts, claiming that this crime proves the goddess Athena has returned to “cleanse” the city of Athens.
With each new corpse, the mania grows—chants of “Athena is arisen” ring out; a rabble-rousing newspaper suggests that the goddess is purifying the city by getting rid of immigrants; graffiti of axes and snakes start to appear. As raucous rallies spring up throughout the city, the team of investigators must solve the case to break the spell before an unimaginable horror comes to pass . . .
270 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 3, 2024
79 people are currently reading
146 people want to read
About the author
V.J. Randle
5 books12 followersVictoria read Classics at King's College, University of Cambridge before teaching Latin and Greek for over a decade. She has given many a tour of Hellenic sites over the years, both in the capacity of educator and holiday-maker. If you spot an excitable woman in a maxi skirt waving her arms about on top of The Acropolis, chances are it's her. Do say hello!
She now lives and writes in the North-East of Scotland with her husband, Will, and cat, Athena (who is every bit the goddess of stratagem as her namesake). Sign up to her newsletter at victoriarandleauthor.com to be the first to hear about all her writing news and the occasional bookish treat.
As I'm both an author and a reader, I only rate/review books I absolutely love and don't mention the rest (I don't like being critical of other authors' work publicly). So, this is why my ratings are all 5*s – they're genuine.
She now lives and writes in the North-East of Scotland with her husband, Will, and cat, Athena (who is every bit the goddess of stratagem as her namesake). Sign up to her newsletter at victoriarandleauthor.com to be the first to hear about all her writing news and the occasional bookish treat.
As I'm both an author and a reader, I only rate/review books I absolutely love and don't mention the rest (I don't like being critical of other authors' work publicly). So, this is why my ratings are all 5*s – they're genuine.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
November 21, 2025
*2.5
Hmmm. I love the premise of the murders mimicking myths, they were brutal and awful and awesome. However the culty brainwashy stuff didn’t work for me. Something didn’t quite click with the writing either but I did enjoy overall. Also made me wanna go to Athens more than I already did.
“Humans showed an endless capacity for the irrational.”
Hmmm. I love the premise of the murders mimicking myths, they were brutal and awful and awesome. However the culty brainwashy stuff didn’t work for me. Something didn’t quite click with the writing either but I did enjoy overall. Also made me wanna go to Athens more than I already did.
“Humans showed an endless capacity for the irrational.”
April 14, 2024
When a string of murders occur in Greece, each seemingly connected to the goddess Athena, detectives have to figure out who is behind them...and why.
I really enjoyed the twists and turns of this book - the unravelling of the mystery had me gripped! I think that some parts can be a bit confusing if you're not familiar with Greek mythology but a lot of it is well explained. I liked the dynamic between the main detective characters and how the unlikely pair work together on the case.
I would love to hear more stories about these detectives. A great book!
Thank you Bloodhound Books for providing an ARC of this book for review. All opinions are my own.
I really enjoyed the twists and turns of this book - the unravelling of the mystery had me gripped! I think that some parts can be a bit confusing if you're not familiar with Greek mythology but a lot of it is well explained. I liked the dynamic between the main detective characters and how the unlikely pair work together on the case.
I would love to hear more stories about these detectives. A great book!
Thank you Bloodhound Books for providing an ARC of this book for review. All opinions are my own.
April 15, 2024
The story takes place in Athens. Two detectives, Michail Mikras and Katerina Galanis, are called to a gruesome murder scene at the Temple of Hephaestus. The press grabs onto this story and theories are all over social media. One group calls themselves, “The Awakening” and believes that Athena has returned to remove the people who are not Greek from the city.
Obsessed with the myth of Athena, the people begin spinning stories about the return of Athena. The detectives try to use social media to determine when the next murder will take place.
Murders continue. “The Awakening,” believes each murder is being done by the goddess herself. The group grows exponentially. How will the detectives be able to stop the murders and control the masses of people storming Athens?
This story is wonderful! It includes all the elements needed for a good story such as: gruesome murders, difficult investigation, fear, riots, thrilling plot twists and more. The character development is perfect, as each one goes through changes. The scenery is well displayed. VJ Randle has done an amazing job with this book. I definitely recommend it!
Obsessed with the myth of Athena, the people begin spinning stories about the return of Athena. The detectives try to use social media to determine when the next murder will take place.
Murders continue. “The Awakening,” believes each murder is being done by the goddess herself. The group grows exponentially. How will the detectives be able to stop the murders and control the masses of people storming Athens?
This story is wonderful! It includes all the elements needed for a good story such as: gruesome murders, difficult investigation, fear, riots, thrilling plot twists and more. The character development is perfect, as each one goes through changes. The scenery is well displayed. VJ Randle has done an amazing job with this book. I definitely recommend it!
May 4, 2024
I received this book for free from Bloodhound Books.
This was a very chilling page turner.
I was gripped throughout the book.
I would definitely read more by this author.
This was a very chilling page turner.
I was gripped throughout the book.
I would definitely read more by this author.
May 12, 2025
From the very first page, The Athenian Murders pulled me into a story that felt both ancient and incredibly modern. Set in present-day Athens, this thriller features eerie murder scenes inspired by Greek mythology, and it’s done so cleverly that I often had to remind myself I was reading fiction.
The novel explores how powerful stories — especially ancient ones — can influence people in dangerous ways when taken too literally. As the murders begin to mimic the myth of Athena’s birth, and a group called The Awakening spreads their beliefs online, I was inured (yet horrified) by how quickly fear and fanaticism can catch fire. The use of social media as a weapon for myth-based hysteria felt chillingly real and timely.
One of my favorite parts of this book was the character of Detective Michail Mikras. I absolutely adored him. His neurodivergent traits weren’t just “quirks” — they were an essential part of how he processes the world. He approaches the mystery with razor-sharp focus, logical and methodical thinking, and an intense need for truth. Watching him navigate the chaos of trying to decipher body language and social interactions, while staying grounded in logic (even as others give in to panic or fanatical thinking) made him an unforgettable lead. Neuro-spicy protagonists like Michail are rare, and his perspective added so much depth to the story.
I also appreciated the exploration of feminine power through the cult’s obsession with Athena. It raised questions about how women are seen — as sacred, dangerous, wise, or wrathful — and how those ideas are still being used (and twisted) today. Both Sophia and Katerina’s characters expertly highlight different aspects of this.
V.J. Randle’s writing is sharp, smart, and cinematic. She layers atmosphere, tension, and psychological insight with ease — never overexplaining, but always pulling you deeper. Her style reminds me of authors like Dan Brown for the myth-meets-modern-crime intensity (but far more grounded).
If you love mysteries with meaning, stories that mix the sacred and the sinister, or protagonists who see the world a little differently, The Athenian Murders is a must-read.
The novel explores how powerful stories — especially ancient ones — can influence people in dangerous ways when taken too literally. As the murders begin to mimic the myth of Athena’s birth, and a group called The Awakening spreads their beliefs online, I was inured (yet horrified) by how quickly fear and fanaticism can catch fire. The use of social media as a weapon for myth-based hysteria felt chillingly real and timely.
One of my favorite parts of this book was the character of Detective Michail Mikras. I absolutely adored him. His neurodivergent traits weren’t just “quirks” — they were an essential part of how he processes the world. He approaches the mystery with razor-sharp focus, logical and methodical thinking, and an intense need for truth. Watching him navigate the chaos of trying to decipher body language and social interactions, while staying grounded in logic (even as others give in to panic or fanatical thinking) made him an unforgettable lead. Neuro-spicy protagonists like Michail are rare, and his perspective added so much depth to the story.
I also appreciated the exploration of feminine power through the cult’s obsession with Athena. It raised questions about how women are seen — as sacred, dangerous, wise, or wrathful — and how those ideas are still being used (and twisted) today. Both Sophia and Katerina’s characters expertly highlight different aspects of this.
V.J. Randle’s writing is sharp, smart, and cinematic. She layers atmosphere, tension, and psychological insight with ease — never overexplaining, but always pulling you deeper. Her style reminds me of authors like Dan Brown for the myth-meets-modern-crime intensity (but far more grounded).
If you love mysteries with meaning, stories that mix the sacred and the sinister, or protagonists who see the world a little differently, The Athenian Murders is a must-read.
February 4, 2025
He agreed, of course, that murder was most terrible. But she had not used the modern Greek word, tromeros, instead using the Ancient Greek, deinos... [p. 60]
Sergeant Michail Mikras of the Athenian police is assigned, with his partner Katerina Galanis, to the investigation of a gruesome murder with mythic undertones: the body was arranged to suggest the birth of Athena, who was freed from the head of Zeus by an axe wielded by Hephaestus. It's Mikras who finds the axe, hung from Hephaestus's temple -- a fact that fascinates the tabloids. And a group called The Awakening is claiming that Athena has arisen to cleanse the city of Athens. Michail Mikras's superior, Sofia Sampson, is unimpressed with his suggestion that they consider other Athene-related myths to 'locate' further crimes. Nevertheless, Michail and Katerina identify the next target...
Like many crime novels, this is more about the detectives than about the crimes. Michail Mikras is neurodivergent and bad at people, but familiar with mythology and Ancient Greek; Katerina is trying to separate from her husband Theo, also a police officer, because of his involvement with far-right, anti-immigrant groups; Sofia Sampson has personal history with one of the ringleaders. Two retired British classicists are also involved in the case, providing some scholarly input as well as some red herrings.
This was a quick and easy read, and I was interested by the depiction of modern Athens (a city I know better from historical novels and non-fiction set in the ancient world). The characters were likeable, if somewhat stereotyped, and the crimes were complex and unusual. I don't feel compelled to read more in the series, but I think I might revisit this author if I were to visit Athens.
May 12, 2024
As a young girl one of my favorite genres was Greek/Roman mythology. I read everything I could get my hands on, so when I came across The Athenian Murders I thought it would be right up my alley and I was so right. It blends my favorite genre from back then with my current favorite, police procedural, crime, thrillers, etc. It is well-written and well-researched. All of the details rang true for me.
And is it just me or do authors seem to be using more and more detectives who are on the autism spectrum or have OCD? I understand why that would be a draw as it provides a method of delving into their need to be detail oriented. Ms. Randle handles this aspect of her story quite well. She doesn't make Michail into a caricature or an exaggerated character. He comes across as a man working very hard to deal with his issues while determined to be the best he can be at his job. Several unexpected revelations caught me completely off-guard and I loved it. I highly recommend this book and can't wait to see what develops in the next book.
I received a review copy from the author via Bloodhound Books and this review is my honest opinion.
And is it just me or do authors seem to be using more and more detectives who are on the autism spectrum or have OCD? I understand why that would be a draw as it provides a method of delving into their need to be detail oriented. Ms. Randle handles this aspect of her story quite well. She doesn't make Michail into a caricature or an exaggerated character. He comes across as a man working very hard to deal with his issues while determined to be the best he can be at his job. Several unexpected revelations caught me completely off-guard and I loved it. I highly recommend this book and can't wait to see what develops in the next book.
I received a review copy from the author via Bloodhound Books and this review is my honest opinion.
April 19, 2024
This is a very different and interesting story, weaving Greek mythology into a present day murder mystery. It is written with humour and compassion as well as in depth knowledge of the mythology and history of its setting. Who is committing the murders? Why do they resemble ritualistic sacrifices rather than brutal murders. What group is behind them and what message is being conveyed. Three interesting detectives lead the investigation, each contributing according to his or her personality and upbringing. For me, the plot was too convoluted and I lost track of the argument. That might say more about my willingness to engage and concentrate than the book itself. It is certainly worth a read.
April 24, 2024
It took me a while to get into this book but I persevered and it started to capture my interest. I loved the setting of the book and learned a lot about Greek mythology.
The main characters in the book were interesting and there were some surprises in store for the reader. The book starts with the shocking murder of a young man who is a refugee in the city and difficult for the police to identify. It soon becomes apparent that his manner of death plays out a scene from Greek mythology and it is the first of a number of gruesome deaths around the city of Athens.
Someone is taunting the police and as #the awakening gathers momentum thousands gather in the streets to witness a shocking event. I would say that I found the story entertaining but rather whimsical and as a result not entirely believable. If I could I would give 3.5 stars.
The main characters in the book were interesting and there were some surprises in store for the reader. The book starts with the shocking murder of a young man who is a refugee in the city and difficult for the police to identify. It soon becomes apparent that his manner of death plays out a scene from Greek mythology and it is the first of a number of gruesome deaths around the city of Athens.
Someone is taunting the police and as #the awakening gathers momentum thousands gather in the streets to witness a shocking event. I would say that I found the story entertaining but rather whimsical and as a result not entirely believable. If I could I would give 3.5 stars.
April 27, 2024
A young man is found murdered at the temple of Hephaestus in Athens - & in a way apparently inspired by the myths of the goddess Athena. And a group calling itself the Awakening is claiming that the goddess has arisen and is cleansing her city. It is down to an ill-assorted quartet of police officers to expose the lie. The main characters are well drawn, each with their own secrets and demons, misunderstanding each other but somehow working together. And although Greek mythology drives the plot, the reader doesn't need to have any prior knowledge. A thoroughly enjoyable read, which I hope is the first if many.
April 21, 2024
What an interesting read this was. I love Greece and it's history so the blurb reeled me in immediately.
I found it difficult to get into initially. There are a lot of characters but I got there eventually. There's so much in here. A complex plot, lots of history, complex characters, riots and brutal murders are all here. The backdrop of Athens is wonderful and the main characters especially Michail were well developed. The end was also quite fitting.
My thanks to Bloodhound Books for a copy of this and this is my honest review.
I found it difficult to get into initially. There are a lot of characters but I got there eventually. There's so much in here. A complex plot, lots of history, complex characters, riots and brutal murders are all here. The backdrop of Athens is wonderful and the main characters especially Michail were well developed. The end was also quite fitting.
My thanks to Bloodhound Books for a copy of this and this is my honest review.
April 29, 2024
Set in Athens, a young man is murdered, his body is found near to the Parthenon, his death stands out not just for where he is found but also because his heart is cut in two in an unusual manner. The rumours start linking this death to the myths of the Goddess Athena. The leading detective dismisses these but Michail, a detective in the squad thinks this angle should be investigated, especially after the second body.
I found this book different from the usual police murders, although it was slow to start I enjoyed the book.
I found this book different from the usual police murders, although it was slow to start I enjoyed the book.
May 12, 2024
A thrilling read! The author is obviously an expert on Ancient Greece but has a light touch as she weaves ancient myths into a dramatic and very current story. The thought provoking plot has twists and turns as it builds to a crescendo.
The two main characters are likeable and captured my attention from the start. Overall a winning combination of fascinating detail, a fast paced story and clever characterisation - with flashes of humour! I look forward to hopefully reading more about them in the future!
It would make a great film (or TV series)!
The two main characters are likeable and captured my attention from the start. Overall a winning combination of fascinating detail, a fast paced story and clever characterisation - with flashes of humour! I look forward to hopefully reading more about them in the future!
It would make a great film (or TV series)!
June 26, 2025
Mythology almost takes over ...
Those of us who know our classical mythology remember that grey-eyed Athena is the patroness and guardian of the city state of Athens, and this is a legend of which many modern day Athenians still take pride. However, what happens when such pride becomes overt and Athenians forget that their patroness is also supposedly the goddess of wisdom, logic, and reason?
Those of us who know our classical mythology remember that grey-eyed Athena is the patroness and guardian of the city state of Athens, and this is a legend of which many modern day Athenians still take pride. However, what happens when such pride becomes overt and Athenians forget that their patroness is also supposedly the goddess of wisdom, logic, and reason?
April 22, 2024
I have read a few Greek mythology books recently for a book club, so when this came up, I was really interested. It definitely delivered, and I was so intrigued by the story. It did take mega while to get into it, but once I did, it worked really well.
I was given an advance copy by bloodhound books, but the review is entirely my own
I was given an advance copy by bloodhound books, but the review is entirely my own
December 4, 2024
A Greek Monk?
If you're a fan of American TV show Monk, this book is for you. The annoying detective at his best.
The story is pretty good, especially the fact of how an empoverished people can be made to believe anything. Greece's economic situation is a perfect background.
I'm just not a big fan of Monk.
If you're a fan of American TV show Monk, this book is for you. The annoying detective at his best.
The story is pretty good, especially the fact of how an empoverished people can be made to believe anything. Greece's economic situation is a perfect background.
I'm just not a big fan of Monk.
May 5, 2024
This book has all the right ingredients to make it a must-read... multiple murders, ancient myths, intrigue, a great cast of characters, a stunning setting and some brilliant plot twists and turns.
Perfect for fans of David Hewson's Nic Costa series.
Perfect for fans of David Hewson's Nic Costa series.
May 10, 2024
Twists and turns, chills and thrills with some great connections to Greece and Greek anthology that add to the story and the intrigue all played out in the “modern world” of social media. A enthralling and entertaining read that has all the aspects of great thrillers and mysteries!
January 6, 2025
Murder and Greek mythology together?? Literally sign me up. I thought it was such a fun read since I know the myths well. If you don’t, it may take a bit longer to get through. It was the perfect book to start this year off and I cannot wait to pick up the sequel!
May 17, 2025
Hi everyone! I realised I should have done this sooner... but better late than never! This is my book and I really hope you enjoy it. Thank you from the very bottom of my heart to all those who have read it so far.
April 10, 2024
Really struggled to keep interested in this one. I think if you have an interest in Greek mythology and history it will appeal to you.
April 26, 2024
An absolute page turner. Couldn't put it down. A mythical murderous wonder. Well done!
May 13, 2024
I was drawn to this because of the Mythology part mixed in. I'm a complete scker when it comes to anything mythology. But it turned out to be somewhat political and it was messy. Maybe some would be drawn into the fanatical/culty theme but I was curious how it would end and it was ok.
June 21, 2024
Entertaining but weird!
July 2, 2024
Interesting, a little crazy, but, at the same time, reminds me of what we face politically today.
January 24, 2025
Interesting premise, easy read, predictable villains and outcome. I didn’t really warm to the main characters.
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews