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The Warrior Trilogy #1
Sons of Zeus
In 431 BC, ancient Greece experienced its own "Pearl Harbor" - a treacherous sneak attack that would mark the start of the bloody war between the democracy of Athens and the tyranny of Sparta. Caught between these superpowers, the independent city-state of Plataea became the arena where their battle for control of all of Greece would begin.
In Plataea, the young Greek warrior Nikias dreams of glory in the Olympic games as he trains for the pankration - the no-holds-barred ultimate fighting of the era - until an act of violence in defense of his beloved threatens to send him into exile. But before his trial can take place, a traitor opens the city gates to a surprise attack force.
Suddenly trapped inside their own fortress, the Plataeans are fighting for their lives. As Nikias seeks to discover the identity of the man who betrayed the city, he makes a daring escape, gathers an army, and leads this ragtag band into a suicidal battle at the gates of the citadel - a battle that will decide the fates of his family, his friends, and the woman he loves.
In the vein of Bernard Cornwell, Conn Iggulden, and Steven Pressfield, Sons of Zeus marks the beginning of a richly detailed new action-adventure series.
In Plataea, the young Greek warrior Nikias dreams of glory in the Olympic games as he trains for the pankration - the no-holds-barred ultimate fighting of the era - until an act of violence in defense of his beloved threatens to send him into exile. But before his trial can take place, a traitor opens the city gates to a surprise attack force.
Suddenly trapped inside their own fortress, the Plataeans are fighting for their lives. As Nikias seeks to discover the identity of the man who betrayed the city, he makes a daring escape, gathers an army, and leads this ragtag band into a suicidal battle at the gates of the citadel - a battle that will decide the fates of his family, his friends, and the woman he loves.
In the vein of Bernard Cornwell, Conn Iggulden, and Steven Pressfield, Sons of Zeus marks the beginning of a richly detailed new action-adventure series.
Audible Audio
First published June 4, 2013
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About the author
Noble Smith
13 books77 followersI am an award winning playwright, documentary producer, and former Franchise Narrative Director of the Xbox video game series Age of Empires.
My latest novel Draxinger is a paranormal spy-thriller set during The Great War and available as a Kindle exclusive.
My nonfiction book The Wisdom of the Shire is published by Thomas Dunne Books/St. Martin's Press, and has been translated into 8 languages. Kirkus Reviews praised it as "A life-affirming, must-have morsel for Tolkien's colossal fan base."
My historical fiction action/adventure The Nikias of Plataea Trilogy is published by Macmillan. NYT bestselling authors Michael and Kathleen Gear described it as having "Terrific action, with a wickedly brilliant plot, visceral combat, and nail-biting treachery."
My latest novel Draxinger is a paranormal spy-thriller set during The Great War and available as a Kindle exclusive.
My nonfiction book The Wisdom of the Shire is published by Thomas Dunne Books/St. Martin's Press, and has been translated into 8 languages. Kirkus Reviews praised it as "A life-affirming, must-have morsel for Tolkien's colossal fan base."
My historical fiction action/adventure The Nikias of Plataea Trilogy is published by Macmillan. NYT bestselling authors Michael and Kathleen Gear described it as having "Terrific action, with a wickedly brilliant plot, visceral combat, and nail-biting treachery."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
November 3, 2015
"Zeus's balls!" what a great book. This series was my first experience reading about Ancient Greece and oh what a ride. I adored the protagonist Nikias and thoroughly enjoyed reading about the citizens of Plataea. I can't say enough good things about Noble Smith's writing skills and once again the editing was flawless. I didn't want this book to end. Highly recommended to anyone interested in Ancient Greece, historical fiction or just a great, fun read.
If I had my way this story would not end after three books, but all good things must come to an end.
If I had my way this story would not end after three books, but all good things must come to an end.
May 3, 2023
Sons of Zeus strikes the perfect balance between "historical" and "fiction." The story is thrilling and very immediate; you’ll experience the sights, sounds, and yes, even smells of Greek battle with all the details needed to give you a sense of being right in the thick of things. The action never quite stops and the flow and pacing are perfect. No anachronistic hiccups that jar you out of the story. And while you're caught up in the thrill ride, surprise!, you are also soaking up an incredible range of ancient Greek culture, from politics to popular culture, sexuality to social order. And of course, warfare. Smith provides enough information to give you a wonderfully authentic sense of the place, the people, and this particular episode in history, but never do period details overpower or detract from the unrelenting action and finely crafted plot.
If you've read Smith's prior book, The Wisdom of the Shire: A Short Guide to a Long and Happy Life, then you too might notice the sharp contrast in tone between the two books. The Shire is a gentle, warmhearted guide to living life with all of the earnestness and joy of a Hobbit. Zeus is an action packed, historically acute blood bath (be warned, those of faint heart!). I did a few double takes at the outset of Zeus, mulled over the contrast, then realized-- with admiration and a good chuckle-- that Smith must pursue his subject matter as a Hobbit pursues a particularly savory chunk of cheese: thoroughly and with great gusto. The topic is an ancient Greek battle? Then by golly, the reader will enjoy the fiercest, bloodiest, lustiest of wars, and Smith is not going to shortchange you on the juicy bits. To that I say, bravo!
Sons of Zeus has all of the elements of a great epic historical- war, intrigue, deception, friendship, love, heroism, duty, honor. As I read, the story played out in my mind in cinematic scale, and I would love to see it on the screen. In the meantime, I will wait with bated breath for the next installment in this winning series.
If you've read Smith's prior book, The Wisdom of the Shire: A Short Guide to a Long and Happy Life, then you too might notice the sharp contrast in tone between the two books. The Shire is a gentle, warmhearted guide to living life with all of the earnestness and joy of a Hobbit. Zeus is an action packed, historically acute blood bath (be warned, those of faint heart!). I did a few double takes at the outset of Zeus, mulled over the contrast, then realized-- with admiration and a good chuckle-- that Smith must pursue his subject matter as a Hobbit pursues a particularly savory chunk of cheese: thoroughly and with great gusto. The topic is an ancient Greek battle? Then by golly, the reader will enjoy the fiercest, bloodiest, lustiest of wars, and Smith is not going to shortchange you on the juicy bits. To that I say, bravo!
Sons of Zeus has all of the elements of a great epic historical- war, intrigue, deception, friendship, love, heroism, duty, honor. As I read, the story played out in my mind in cinematic scale, and I would love to see it on the screen. In the meantime, I will wait with bated breath for the next installment in this winning series.
July 27, 2015
More like 2.5. From only an excerpt from Thucydides the author has fashioned an exciting action/adventure novel. The novel tells of the "sneak attack" on the city of Plataea by Thebans, the latter an ally of Sparta. From without, a spy, called here a whisperer, and from within, one of the townspeople, the city is betrayed into Theban hands. Much of the book is taken up with the people's fight for survival and efforts to save their city from both Thebes and Sparta. The last two city states named are allies. Nikias, the protagonist and main character, is a young man who lives with his family on an outlying farm. The likeable Nikias is very courageous through the story and his actions drive much of the action, although the townspeople rally to the town's defense despite their initial shock, confusion. and turning on each other.
..."just at the beginning of spring [ca. March 6, 431 B.C.], a Theban force a little over 300 strong ... about the first watch of the night, made an armed entry into Plataea, a town of Boeotia in alliance with Athens.
The gates were opened to them by a Plataean ..., who, with his party, had invited them in, meaning to put to death the citizens of the opposite party, bring over the city to Thebes, and thus obtain power for themselves. This was arranged through a Theban spy."
The History of the Peloponnesian War
I found a few implausibilities and inconsistencies, also some odd word choices: Nikias characterizes himself as a "hick" at one point. "Heirs" was used at another where I think the author meant "hairs." I did not like this transliteration system from the Greek where it seemed like c's or ch's were transliterated as k's, e.g., Hektor, Syrakuse. [Since I'm from Upstate New York, the spelling of the city surprised me; I'm used to Syracuse, New York.] Spelling of these proper names was jarring until I got used to it.] I wondered if mentioning a crow with one white tail feather so many times [4 or 5, as I remember] was supposed to have some significance. Zeno's wife Xanthippus I believe should have been Xanthippe, the feminine form of the name. A glaring error which I'm surprised the proofreader didn't catch was Games in honor of Lysander, the hero of Thermopylae. There was a famous Spartan admiral in history named Lysander, but the soldier at Thermopylae was Leonidas.
There were some interesting characters, e.g., Chusor, the blacksmith-inventor of a type of Molotov cocktail and of a type of caltrop; Kolax, the Skythian boy; Saeed and Mula, Nikias's family's Persian slaves; General Menesarkos, the grandfather of Nikias. The women were all strong characters. I liked the description of the pottery factory and the steps in making pottery. I totally disliked the worst stereotype of Spartans I've ever read. They sounded like total animals! I regretted not being able to rate the novel any higher. I was disappointed there was no "Author's Note"; I would have liked to see how much was fact, how much was from the author's imagination. My guess is maybe 90% fiction, 10% fact. This was a readable novel, with good story and interesting "cast."
Reread in July 2015; the novel didn't impress me the second time around.
..."just at the beginning of spring [ca. March 6, 431 B.C.], a Theban force a little over 300 strong ... about the first watch of the night, made an armed entry into Plataea, a town of Boeotia in alliance with Athens.
The gates were opened to them by a Plataean ..., who, with his party, had invited them in, meaning to put to death the citizens of the opposite party, bring over the city to Thebes, and thus obtain power for themselves. This was arranged through a Theban spy."
The History of the Peloponnesian War
I found a few implausibilities and inconsistencies, also some odd word choices: Nikias characterizes himself as a "hick" at one point. "Heirs" was used at another where I think the author meant "hairs." I did not like this transliteration system from the Greek where it seemed like c's or ch's were transliterated as k's, e.g., Hektor, Syrakuse. [Since I'm from Upstate New York, the spelling of the city surprised me; I'm used to Syracuse, New York.] Spelling of these proper names was jarring until I got used to it.] I wondered if mentioning a crow with one white tail feather so many times [4 or 5, as I remember] was supposed to have some significance. Zeno's wife Xanthippus I believe should have been Xanthippe, the feminine form of the name. A glaring error which I'm surprised the proofreader didn't catch was Games in honor of Lysander, the hero of Thermopylae. There was a famous Spartan admiral in history named Lysander, but the soldier at Thermopylae was Leonidas.
There were some interesting characters, e.g., Chusor, the blacksmith-inventor of a type of Molotov cocktail and of a type of caltrop; Kolax, the Skythian boy; Saeed and Mula, Nikias's family's Persian slaves; General Menesarkos, the grandfather of Nikias. The women were all strong characters. I liked the description of the pottery factory and the steps in making pottery. I totally disliked the worst stereotype of Spartans I've ever read. They sounded like total animals! I regretted not being able to rate the novel any higher. I was disappointed there was no "Author's Note"; I would have liked to see how much was fact, how much was from the author's imagination. My guess is maybe 90% fiction, 10% fact. This was a readable novel, with good story and interesting "cast."
Reread in July 2015; the novel didn't impress me the second time around.
July 25, 2013
I received a free copy of this book through the First Reads program here on Goodreads. Thanks to the author, publisher, and Goodreads for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Now that was a pleasant surprise. Well, I did expect to like this book as the idea seemed really interesting, but I was surprised at how much I enjoyed it. An interesting premise became an engaging story.
I listened to the audiobook of this, which I received as a GoodReads First Reads Giveaway. I was pleased with that, as a lot of the audios I listen to are historical fiction, and this seemed to fit the niche just right. And while it had lots of what I enjoy about historical fiction from the time period (ancient Greece), it also improved on some.
The battles. Sometimes I find that battles are too drawn out in historical fiction. Too detailed, they often drag on and lose my interest in the telling. But what I liked about Smith's battle descriptions is that he gives it to us in small chunks, then moves the story on to something else. We get the feel of the fighting without the play-by-play that so often becomes tedious.
The characters. I really found myself liking the characters here. There were a lot of them, and it was tough at first to keep up with all of them. (This is a drawback to audio and epics - without seeing the names, I have a harder time learning them. Also, no point of easy reference to go back and look them up). But once I got a handle on who's who, I cared about what happened to them. The villains were pretty cool as well, and even sympathetic at times.
Some of the character voices were a bit off, but that was more the narrator's interpretation than what the story had. I did feel like the dialogue was a bit too "modern" at times, but that did make it easier to follow as well. So there are two sides to that coin.
I'm purposely vague with character names and specific comments for two reasons. One, I'm not sure of the spelling of many (see audio comment above). But more importantly, I don't want to post any spoilers. I'd like anyone that picks this book up to enjoy the discovery as much as I did.
Let's just say I'm very much looking forward to book 2 in the series. From what I understand, it is a planned trilogy. Which should be just about right.
Now that was a pleasant surprise. Well, I did expect to like this book as the idea seemed really interesting, but I was surprised at how much I enjoyed it. An interesting premise became an engaging story.
I listened to the audiobook of this, which I received as a GoodReads First Reads Giveaway. I was pleased with that, as a lot of the audios I listen to are historical fiction, and this seemed to fit the niche just right. And while it had lots of what I enjoy about historical fiction from the time period (ancient Greece), it also improved on some.
The battles. Sometimes I find that battles are too drawn out in historical fiction. Too detailed, they often drag on and lose my interest in the telling. But what I liked about Smith's battle descriptions is that he gives it to us in small chunks, then moves the story on to something else. We get the feel of the fighting without the play-by-play that so often becomes tedious.
The characters. I really found myself liking the characters here. There were a lot of them, and it was tough at first to keep up with all of them. (This is a drawback to audio and epics - without seeing the names, I have a harder time learning them. Also, no point of easy reference to go back and look them up). But once I got a handle on who's who, I cared about what happened to them. The villains were pretty cool as well, and even sympathetic at times.
Some of the character voices were a bit off, but that was more the narrator's interpretation than what the story had. I did feel like the dialogue was a bit too "modern" at times, but that did make it easier to follow as well. So there are two sides to that coin.
I'm purposely vague with character names and specific comments for two reasons. One, I'm not sure of the spelling of many (see audio comment above). But more importantly, I don't want to post any spoilers. I'd like anyone that picks this book up to enjoy the discovery as much as I did.
Let's just say I'm very much looking forward to book 2 in the series. From what I understand, it is a planned trilogy. Which should be just about right.
May 14, 2013
"Sons of Zeus" which I won from Goodreads Giveaways is an action-packed thriller set in the ancient Greek world in 432 BC. In this story Nikias, grandson of the heroic General Menesarkus, dreams not only of gaining all the benefits of Plataean citizenship on his eighteenth birthday, of marrying the warrior-like daughter of his family's political rival but also of winning athletic glory in an Olympic forum. What he doesn't expect is to have to fight the Thebans who hold the city hostage, discover a traitor's identity, and to fight beside the girl he loves to slow down an invading army. Amid treachery, betrayal, lies and deceit that will lead to a bloody confrontation the story grapples with issues like justice and mercy.
The characters are as colorful as they are iron-willed in their beliefs; Nikias courageous and determined, willing to sacrifice his life to save the city and Kallisto,the woman he loves. Menesarkus is the embodiment of warrior strength, of honour and uprightness at a time when alliances between enemies will be forged through deception and greed for power. In an age when women have no rights, are obedient to men and any failure can mean abuse at the hands of a father and brothers, Kallisto is not only beautiful but strong-willed and brave as she fights alongside Nikias to slowdown the invading army. Even the minor characters capture the imagination; wily Churos the freed slave, loyal Saeed, brave young Mula and deadly Kolax, the Skythian.
"Sons of Zeus is an historically-based non-stop action novel that's grips the reader from the first page to the last. I thoroughly enjoyed this well-written, imaginative story and will look for the next book in the series.
The characters are as colorful as they are iron-willed in their beliefs; Nikias courageous and determined, willing to sacrifice his life to save the city and Kallisto,the woman he loves. Menesarkus is the embodiment of warrior strength, of honour and uprightness at a time when alliances between enemies will be forged through deception and greed for power. In an age when women have no rights, are obedient to men and any failure can mean abuse at the hands of a father and brothers, Kallisto is not only beautiful but strong-willed and brave as she fights alongside Nikias to slowdown the invading army. Even the minor characters capture the imagination; wily Churos the freed slave, loyal Saeed, brave young Mula and deadly Kolax, the Skythian.
"Sons of Zeus is an historically-based non-stop action novel that's grips the reader from the first page to the last. I thoroughly enjoyed this well-written, imaginative story and will look for the next book in the series.
May 17, 2013
It's going to be hard to wait a year for the sequel to Sons of Zeus (which is the first installment of a trilogy). The action is non-stop. Always exciting, it's a page turner that will raise your pulse, make you think and keep you up late trying to find out what will happen next.
The setting is Greece nearly 2500 years ago. Ancient Greece was as full of weird tribes as an episode of Star Trek. We have the proud Plateans, the focus of the tale and the city-state of our young protagonist Nikias and his formidable grandfather Menasarkus. Menasarkus has trained NIkias to succeed him as the foremost Pankrator (think mixed martial arts) and his heir as Olympic champion. Then there are the devious Thebans, another city-state a mere eight miles away, who are the Platean's mortal enemies. The Thebans have held a death grudge against Platea since the historic Battle of Platea in 479 BC only a generation before this story starts. These two small cities, Thebes and Platea become pawns in the power struggle for Greece between the most powerful city states--Athens and Sparta.
Some might compare this book to the TV show Spartacus. Spartacus, however, has a comic book feel to it. Sons of Zeus would make a much more interesting series because the characters are fully developed and realized against a background of historical and geographic authenticity. Here is a book that takes you deep into this ancient world with its strange sense of honor and ethics, religion, political, cultural and sexual practices. Sons of Zeus is obviously well-researched and takes the reader to a place we most likely have never been before.
Platea, the site of one of the most important battles that took place in the ancient world has been long forgotten and is not on the tourist trail. No one, it seems, visits Platea. Sons of Zeus brings it back to life with an historical recreation that will make Greeks proud and the reader obsessively anxious for books two and three.
The setting is Greece nearly 2500 years ago. Ancient Greece was as full of weird tribes as an episode of Star Trek. We have the proud Plateans, the focus of the tale and the city-state of our young protagonist Nikias and his formidable grandfather Menasarkus. Menasarkus has trained NIkias to succeed him as the foremost Pankrator (think mixed martial arts) and his heir as Olympic champion. Then there are the devious Thebans, another city-state a mere eight miles away, who are the Platean's mortal enemies. The Thebans have held a death grudge against Platea since the historic Battle of Platea in 479 BC only a generation before this story starts. These two small cities, Thebes and Platea become pawns in the power struggle for Greece between the most powerful city states--Athens and Sparta.
Some might compare this book to the TV show Spartacus. Spartacus, however, has a comic book feel to it. Sons of Zeus would make a much more interesting series because the characters are fully developed and realized against a background of historical and geographic authenticity. Here is a book that takes you deep into this ancient world with its strange sense of honor and ethics, religion, political, cultural and sexual practices. Sons of Zeus is obviously well-researched and takes the reader to a place we most likely have never been before.
Platea, the site of one of the most important battles that took place in the ancient world has been long forgotten and is not on the tourist trail. No one, it seems, visits Platea. Sons of Zeus brings it back to life with an historical recreation that will make Greeks proud and the reader obsessively anxious for books two and three.
August 3, 2013
Sons of Zeus was a great book for those who enjoy historical fiction, personally, I love historical fiction and I enjoy following these men who fight through hardships on and off the field of battle, however Sons of Zeus's Nikias is already very close to being either my favorite or second favorite story, plot, and main character, matching up with Uhtred of Bebbanburg (Saxon Tales) and Thommas of Hookton (Grail Quest Series) which are both from Bernard Cornwell. These authors have similar styles that I love, Sons of Zeus has simple wording yet detailed, and has a new hook at the end of every chapter! Just as proof, i got this book 4 days ago and finished all 324 pages already and am eager to read the next two in the series! Something about this plot just makes it more interesting, enjoyable, and so much harder to put down than any other historical novel I have read so far. If you enjoy a plot filled with twists and turns, along with detailed fighting and unexpected outcomes, along with complex characters whom you love and some you just hate, Sons of Zeus is definitely worth a look at, starting just with an exciting and interesting prologue! So if you give it a chance I'm sure you wont be disappointed and hope you enjoy!
PS: For those who wanted to see a review for the quick summary to see if your interested, I couldn't bring myself to give away even one of the plot twists in the story, it's to complex to explain, just easily understood if you read!
PS: For those who wanted to see a review for the quick summary to see if your interested, I couldn't bring myself to give away even one of the plot twists in the story, it's to complex to explain, just easily understood if you read!
October 6, 2013
This novel really shows Noble's fantastic writing style! He takes us right back in time and surrounds us with fantastic, well researched and fantastically executed authenticity. All at the same time the story is made to feel contemporary, relevant and inviting to the reader! I could not put this book down from the moment I opened it! This is set to be a truly epic series, just like the battles we see in the book. The action practically explodes in your head, you can really understand that Noble knew and lived in this epic scenery whilst writing every sentence! Any wanna be action hero or adventurer or historical buff should read this book! I am very exited to see this series continue and grow! Embrace the story and characters. Live within the society and honour Noble creates. Travel to another time by this fantastic author and for Zeus' sake, read this book!
July 18, 2013
I love Ancient Greek!! I think this book's gonna be huge.
August 18, 2013
Sons of Zeus Review
It’s always a privilege to be considered as worthy to review a book, and even more so to be specifically asked to do so.
This book was one that had managed to slip past what I thought was a fairly good radar for new books and new authors. So to get the nod as someone who knows / likes good Historical Fiction especially that which is set in Ancient Greece was a bit of an ego boost.
To then, via some back and forth email banter discover that the author is also a total gent, really nice bloke and someone with a real passion for the period was all I needed to whole heartedly say yes please.
Yet somehow it then took me 6 or 7 weeks to crack the book open, this I can only put down to the pressures of one of the busiest years ever for fantastic books. It’s not like the book isn’t visually appealing, the book, a burnt orange colour depicting a Warrior in full panoply backed by a city in flames. The cover shouts that the story is bursting forth from the pages with tales of action, violence and history.
I was determined that this really nice bloke would get his review, so two nights ago I picked up the book. WOW what a journey, two nights of staying up until around 2am to finish the book left me tired, but the book left me exhausted. Both from the pace of the plot and the battles, but also from the emotion of the loss of life and loved ones. The brutality of war and life in ancient Plataean Greece, and the standards to which most of the men and women held themselves for honour, propriety and prowess.
Noble, uses and weaves his tale into the history really well, introducing characters, creating others, breathing life into every one of them. But he also manages to educate the reader on life at the time without making it feel like a history lesson. He works from a neutral standpoint not judging but allowing the reader to judge good from bad. Even hero’s commit evil acts, its just depends on time place and circumstance. War is an evil mistress, and demands a high price.
It takes a really strong book to keep me up late (I have a 2 year old, and a job, sleep is precious) It takes a great story to make me read and read until I fall asleep holding the book, or have to physically force myself to put the book down.
In the shape of Nikias the young warrior, his grandfather Menesarkus the old general, the household slave, the Skythian slave, the blacksmith and inventor Chusor and many other great character inventions Noble Smith takes a passage from Thucydides “History of the Peloponnesian War” covering an attempt by the Thebans to take over their rivals the Plataeans city and adds meat to the bones to create this wonderful take, the first I hope in a long series.
The publisher blurb makes a comparison to Conwell and Pressfield. I would be more inclined to make a comparison to Christian Cameron, the tale gripped me with the same intensity that his books do.
Very highly recommended, one of my top 5 books for the year.
(Parm)
Coming in June 2014 Spartans at the Gates
It’s always a privilege to be considered as worthy to review a book, and even more so to be specifically asked to do so.
This book was one that had managed to slip past what I thought was a fairly good radar for new books and new authors. So to get the nod as someone who knows / likes good Historical Fiction especially that which is set in Ancient Greece was a bit of an ego boost.
To then, via some back and forth email banter discover that the author is also a total gent, really nice bloke and someone with a real passion for the period was all I needed to whole heartedly say yes please.
Yet somehow it then took me 6 or 7 weeks to crack the book open, this I can only put down to the pressures of one of the busiest years ever for fantastic books. It’s not like the book isn’t visually appealing, the book, a burnt orange colour depicting a Warrior in full panoply backed by a city in flames. The cover shouts that the story is bursting forth from the pages with tales of action, violence and history.
I was determined that this really nice bloke would get his review, so two nights ago I picked up the book. WOW what a journey, two nights of staying up until around 2am to finish the book left me tired, but the book left me exhausted. Both from the pace of the plot and the battles, but also from the emotion of the loss of life and loved ones. The brutality of war and life in ancient Plataean Greece, and the standards to which most of the men and women held themselves for honour, propriety and prowess.
Noble, uses and weaves his tale into the history really well, introducing characters, creating others, breathing life into every one of them. But he also manages to educate the reader on life at the time without making it feel like a history lesson. He works from a neutral standpoint not judging but allowing the reader to judge good from bad. Even hero’s commit evil acts, its just depends on time place and circumstance. War is an evil mistress, and demands a high price.
It takes a really strong book to keep me up late (I have a 2 year old, and a job, sleep is precious) It takes a great story to make me read and read until I fall asleep holding the book, or have to physically force myself to put the book down.
In the shape of Nikias the young warrior, his grandfather Menesarkus the old general, the household slave, the Skythian slave, the blacksmith and inventor Chusor and many other great character inventions Noble Smith takes a passage from Thucydides “History of the Peloponnesian War” covering an attempt by the Thebans to take over their rivals the Plataeans city and adds meat to the bones to create this wonderful take, the first I hope in a long series.
The publisher blurb makes a comparison to Conwell and Pressfield. I would be more inclined to make a comparison to Christian Cameron, the tale gripped me with the same intensity that his books do.
Very highly recommended, one of my top 5 books for the year.
(Parm)
Coming in June 2014 Spartans at the Gates
February 16, 2014
I aquired Sons of Zeus off of a goodreads giveaway. The book, being based off history, originally had me concerned that it would be more of a dull non-fiction book which I tend to shy away from, than the engaging and captivating fantastcal tale in which it turned out to be.
The story had many things wich make it a masterpiece. First, the pace of the book was fast enough that the reader would never experience boredom with the plot, but not so fast that it became confusing. secondly, The historical and fictional aspects of the book worked perfectly together. The setting and time period just added to the story rather than taking away from it as many do. Finally, while some people may be put off by writing about severed limbs and the monstosities of war I thought that it added to the authenticity of the story. In the time period when this story was made this sort of thing was very likely to happen during a war.
I could continue writing about this book all day, but I believe that the three sections I have addressed above are what made the story great for me. I rate this book a 4.5/5 and I am anxious for the release of the next part in the series.
Thank you to Noble Smith for the signed copy of Sons of Zeus that he kindly put on goodreads giveaway list for readers to win and enjoy!
The story had many things wich make it a masterpiece. First, the pace of the book was fast enough that the reader would never experience boredom with the plot, but not so fast that it became confusing. secondly, The historical and fictional aspects of the book worked perfectly together. The setting and time period just added to the story rather than taking away from it as many do. Finally, while some people may be put off by writing about severed limbs and the monstosities of war I thought that it added to the authenticity of the story. In the time period when this story was made this sort of thing was very likely to happen during a war.
I could continue writing about this book all day, but I believe that the three sections I have addressed above are what made the story great for me. I rate this book a 4.5/5 and I am anxious for the release of the next part in the series.
Thank you to Noble Smith for the signed copy of Sons of Zeus that he kindly put on goodreads giveaway list for readers to win and enjoy!
August 23, 2013
I won this in the Goodreads giveaways, and the author is a really nice guy, but I just didn't like this novel much, so I'm having a bit of a bad conscience about this. (sorry)
I felt that there was too much of a discrepancy between the lily-white protagonist Nikias, and pretty much every other character being either anviliciously evil, or at least pretty gray. Characters like Nikias' grandfather and chusor were much more interesting than the guy we're supposed to care about. He also has pretty good plot armour, so you don't really fear for him much, although chaos and bloodshed reigns all about him.
Concerning the baddie, who spends most of the book just being randomly evil and debauched, you almost hear the editor saying "hey, you need to give this guy some kind of motivation", so that's what happens in about 3 lines towards the end of the book...
The book tries a bit too hard to be adult and grimdark, and so ends up a bit unwillingly comical, and also forseeable in places.
Now, one thing I'm not sure about, as I'm not an expert on ancient Greece, but the sharpness of their swords seemed a bit exagerated to me, with arms, legs and heads flying about at a single stroke.
I did like the Skythian kid though.
I felt that there was too much of a discrepancy between the lily-white protagonist Nikias, and pretty much every other character being either anviliciously evil, or at least pretty gray. Characters like Nikias' grandfather and chusor were much more interesting than the guy we're supposed to care about. He also has pretty good plot armour, so you don't really fear for him much, although chaos and bloodshed reigns all about him.
Concerning the baddie, who spends most of the book just being randomly evil and debauched, you almost hear the editor saying "hey, you need to give this guy some kind of motivation", so that's what happens in about 3 lines towards the end of the book...
The book tries a bit too hard to be adult and grimdark, and so ends up a bit unwillingly comical, and also forseeable in places.
Now, one thing I'm not sure about, as I'm not an expert on ancient Greece, but the sharpness of their swords seemed a bit exagerated to me, with arms, legs and heads flying about at a single stroke.
I did like the Skythian kid though.
September 2, 2013
I'll start this by saying I don't typically read fiction action/adventure books. However, after hearing the author speak at a local bookstore I was intrigued because it was obvious Noble has a passion for this time period and knew so much about what their culture was like.
I really enjoyed this book!
I'll just mention the top few things I appreciated about Sons of Zeus.
The story had many layers to it. So much going on, the plot kept me sucked in the whole time!
The characters. The characters were unique and there were multiple points of view for the story. I really liked that the story followed characters from both side of this battle.
The thing I appreciated most is that this book wasn't only entertaining, I actually felt like I learn a lot from reading it!
There's just so much of their culture effortlessly woven into Sons of Zeus that I felt like I actually got a taste of what it would be like to live then and there.
Easily a 5 star book.
This is one of my favorite books of 2013 for sure.
Will I start reading fiction action/adventure all the time? No.
Will I read the next book of this trilogy? Absolutely, yes!
I really enjoyed this book!
I'll just mention the top few things I appreciated about Sons of Zeus.
The story had many layers to it. So much going on, the plot kept me sucked in the whole time!
The characters. The characters were unique and there were multiple points of view for the story. I really liked that the story followed characters from both side of this battle.
The thing I appreciated most is that this book wasn't only entertaining, I actually felt like I learn a lot from reading it!
There's just so much of their culture effortlessly woven into Sons of Zeus that I felt like I actually got a taste of what it would be like to live then and there.
Easily a 5 star book.
This is one of my favorite books of 2013 for sure.
Will I start reading fiction action/adventure all the time? No.
Will I read the next book of this trilogy? Absolutely, yes!
June 13, 2013
What's remarkable about Sons of Zeus is that the story seems outrageous, implausible even, and yet the whole thing is based on a true story straight from the pages of ancient Greek history. Noble Smith does a great job of filling out the facts with interesting characters and plenty of drama, details, and tidbits about ancient Greece. It's definitely a page-turner with plenty of suspense as well, even if you are like me and read all about what happens on Wikipedia. I think you will really enjoy this if you are into: historical fiction, action novels, Greece, or just good stories!
September 26, 2014
Wow! I'm a Greek history buff and a fan of action novels. I got a heaping helping of both in this tremendously well written, well researched and well executed work. It truly is a Noble piece of art. I loved the characters - so many that I've already started re-reading it to get them all straight - and their heroic actions and attitudes. Smith even handles his villains with grace and understanding. Like great authors before him, Smith leaves us annoyed at the end that so many important things are unresolved, the perfect come-on to drag the reader to the next book in the series. Well done.
July 9, 2013
Noble Smith recreated a very exciting historical world in his book "Sons of Zeus". It hits you with a twist right from the start, and it hooks you in and makes you want to keep reading!
Not only does the author have a vast knowledge of historical Greece, he is able to create characters that invite you in.
I highly recommend this book!
Not only does the author have a vast knowledge of historical Greece, he is able to create characters that invite you in.
I highly recommend this book!
July 31, 2013
I received this book from GoodReads first reads. I thought this book was really well written. Drew you in and very hard to put down, I read it in one day. Read if you don't mind war and violence it is a war book (that time period was constant wars). Makes you feel like you are there back in time. Good book.
January 28, 2014
I don't understand all the 4 and 5 star reviews. I felt this book to be very dry. I couldn't get into it and it was bogged down by so many details of nothing.
It was a terrific idea for a book, just not very well executed.
It was a terrific idea for a book, just not very well executed.
June 21, 2013
Really excellent read, I've read it twice now. Is intriguing, exciting and just super fun to read. Noble Smith is definitely on my list of excellent authors. GO BUY IT.
Read
July 25, 2023The Pankration Championship. “The fight between The Bull and The Centaur. The flies attacked, believed to come from the Underworld.” A papyrus from the Exiled Scribe 431 B.C.… Yound Nickies lived for the Pankration. He wanted to get into the Hippodrome. Damos The Centaur versus The Bull of Platea. Nickies loved the Bull, he was his grandfather, Menasarkus. Menasarkus killed Damos for killing his son Aristo in an earlier war. Ten years later, Nickies trained with his grandfather, Menasarkus which means “the flesh that endures”. The Greek city of Platea was rich from its defeat of the Persian King Xerxes. Platea fielded a mighty army. Urimidus, magistrate of Platea wrote to Artaxerxes, son of Xerxes, becoming a Persian spy and traitor. Nickkies was soon to become a man in the Haircutting Ceremony and a citizen of Platea, gaining a set of armor and a shield. We’ll learn of his girlfriend Calisto. We follow Nickies through his teenage years to adulthood; his friends, training, encounters, his enemies, his courage, and his passion. There is much political intrigue, subterfuge, treachery, honor, and death. The invasion of Platea was about to begin. Four hundred Thebians, Platea's age-old enemies, entered the fortress city unchallenged. What of Spartan General Draco The Skull’s plans for a treaty with Platea, which required Platea to break their alliance with Athens? What of the traitor Artaxerxes had bought? I like Greek history, so the political interplay between Athens, Sparta, and the regional cities was quite interesting to me, as well as the armor, weapons, battles, and tactics. The narrator, Elijahah Alexander is very good and his skill with voices is excellent.
September 25, 2020
“Temi la schiavitù più della morte”
Siamo nel 431 a.C. Atene e Sparta ormai sono ai ferri corti e al centro di questi dissidi c’è Platea, in cui vivono i nostri protagonisti, tra cui l’impavido Nikias, nipote del grande Generale Menesarco, la sua amata Callisto e altri suoi amici che lo affiancheranno nella lotta per cacciare da Platea un manipoli di spartani che hanno assediato la città tramite l’inganno di alcuni plateesi.
Il libro è scritto benissimo, le lotte sono scritte talmente bene che mi è sembrato di viverle come se stessi guardando un film (sarebbe infatti bello se ne traessero uno). Alcune scene sono state davvero molto crude, devo dire in quel periodo avevano molta fantasia per le torture. Il ritmo è abbastanza incalzante, la maggior parte del libro è incentrata sullo scontro tra i tebani e i plateesi.
Di solito quando scelgo un libro non leggo attentamente la trama, perché non voglio rovinarmi la sorpresa e così è stato anche per I figli di Zeus di Noble Smith, ma il titolo evidentemente mi ha sviato troppo, pensando che parlasse di altro. Il libro mi è piaciuto, come ho detto è scritto benissimo, però non c’è stato il colpo di fulmine, ma ci sta, non ci si può innamorare di tutti i libri che si leggono, no?
Siamo nel 431 a.C. Atene e Sparta ormai sono ai ferri corti e al centro di questi dissidi c’è Platea, in cui vivono i nostri protagonisti, tra cui l’impavido Nikias, nipote del grande Generale Menesarco, la sua amata Callisto e altri suoi amici che lo affiancheranno nella lotta per cacciare da Platea un manipoli di spartani che hanno assediato la città tramite l’inganno di alcuni plateesi.
Il libro è scritto benissimo, le lotte sono scritte talmente bene che mi è sembrato di viverle come se stessi guardando un film (sarebbe infatti bello se ne traessero uno). Alcune scene sono state davvero molto crude, devo dire in quel periodo avevano molta fantasia per le torture. Il ritmo è abbastanza incalzante, la maggior parte del libro è incentrata sullo scontro tra i tebani e i plateesi.
Di solito quando scelgo un libro non leggo attentamente la trama, perché non voglio rovinarmi la sorpresa e così è stato anche per I figli di Zeus di Noble Smith, ma il titolo evidentemente mi ha sviato troppo, pensando che parlasse di altro. Il libro mi è piaciuto, come ho detto è scritto benissimo, però non c’è stato il colpo di fulmine, ma ci sta, non ci si può innamorare di tutti i libri che si leggono, no?
February 3, 2020
Το κοιτάω,το ξανακοιταω. Λέω τι διαβασα θεμου. Αν αυτο είναι το πρωτο της τριλογίας,στα υπόλοιπα τι γίνεται????
Βρισκόμαστε στο 431 π.Χ . Προ των πυλών της έναρξης του Πελοποννησιακού πολέμου.
Σε αυτο το μέρος πρωταγωνιστές είναι οι Πλαταιές,η Θήβα και λίγο η Σπάρτη.
Λεπτομερείς και ολίγων τι σκληρές περιγραφές μαχων,πολιτικά παιχνίδια,πισώπλατα μαχαιρώματα,πλεκτανες και όλα τα "καλά".
Σαν σύνολο,ενα καλογραμμένο μυθιστόρημα που σε πιάνει και δεν σε αφήνει να το αφήσεις.
Θα κρατήσω δυο αποσπασματα απο το βιβλίο :
"Ο πόλεμος είναι για τους άντρες. Το σίγουρο είναι πως οι άντρες τον προκάλεσαν. Και οι γυναικες θα υποφέρουν όπως πάντα."
Και πραγματικά,γιατί σε όσα κομμάτια περιγράφει εισβολές,οι άντρες σφαγιάζονται και οι γυναίκες βιάζονται και πωλούνται σαν πόρνες ή σκλάβες,όπου συνεχίζει το μαρτύριο τους. Αλλά πολλές φορές και οι γιοι των αρχόντων βιάζονταν και πωλούνταν σαν σκλαβοι.
"Άσχημοι άντρες σαν εμένα που κρύβονται σε δολάρια και παραμονεύουν σε σοκάκια. Εμείς κάνουμε τα ανδρείκελα να χορεύουν."
Οι κατάσκοποι ή ψιθυριστές....
Βρισκόμαστε στο 431 π.Χ . Προ των πυλών της έναρξης του Πελοποννησιακού πολέμου.
Σε αυτο το μέρος πρωταγωνιστές είναι οι Πλαταιές,η Θήβα και λίγο η Σπάρτη.
Λεπτομερείς και ολίγων τι σκληρές περιγραφές μαχων,πολιτικά παιχνίδια,πισώπλατα μαχαιρώματα,πλεκτανες και όλα τα "καλά".
Σαν σύνολο,ενα καλογραμμένο μυθιστόρημα που σε πιάνει και δεν σε αφήνει να το αφήσεις.
Θα κρατήσω δυο αποσπασματα απο το βιβλίο :
"Ο πόλεμος είναι για τους άντρες. Το σίγουρο είναι πως οι άντρες τον προκάλεσαν. Και οι γυναικες θα υποφέρουν όπως πάντα."
Και πραγματικά,γιατί σε όσα κομμάτια περιγράφει εισβολές,οι άντρες σφαγιάζονται και οι γυναίκες βιάζονται και πωλούνται σαν πόρνες ή σκλάβες,όπου συνεχίζει το μαρτύριο τους. Αλλά πολλές φορές και οι γιοι των αρχόντων βιάζονταν και πωλούνταν σαν σκλαβοι.
"Άσχημοι άντρες σαν εμένα που κρύβονται σε δολάρια και παραμονεύουν σε σοκάκια. Εμείς κάνουμε τα ανδρείκελα να χορεύουν."
Οι κατάσκοποι ή ψιθυριστές....
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 27, 2020
History remembers Thermopylae (the 300 movie), the battle of Marathon (reason why a marathon is 26.2 miles), and maybe Salamis. The lesser known but still significant Battle of Platea gets pretty much ignored.
Noble Smith aims to share the story with a historical fiction trilogy. The story's protagonist if Nikias and his noble family, his romantic interest ... and them trying to save their city. There were a lot of characters. Maybe a list of characters in the beginning would have helped?
It was easy for me to cheer on Chusor the wily smith and Kolax the Skythian boy.
Noble Smith aims to share the story with a historical fiction trilogy. The story's protagonist if Nikias and his noble family, his romantic interest ... and them trying to save their city. There were a lot of characters. Maybe a list of characters in the beginning would have helped?
It was easy for me to cheer on Chusor the wily smith and Kolax the Skythian boy.
September 7, 2022
I expect a certain amount of violence from a story about a battle in ancient Greece, but hoo-ee that was a lot to take. The overall story was quite good and the setting an interesting one, but still. I'll likely read the next one though.
June 22, 2018
An entertaining read with some interesting history thrown in. I'll have to find the other books in the trilogy now!
September 20, 2020
I truly enjoyed this - thoroughly. It was interesting, fun, and really painted an interesting picture of war in BC era Greece. Can't wait to read the next two books in the series.
March 22, 2017
Have I ever mentioned how much I LOVE finding good books at the Dollar store?!?
Ha ha. Pretty sure I have!
This book was a Dollar Tree find!
This book is a continuation of the story line from "300", which is something I did not know, when I decided to purchase it, and it was a pleasant surprise!
Young Nikias fights for his life, and the life if his lover, against Thebans in the city of Plataea, which had never been overtaken, until now.
Brutal fight scenes in this book, and a chuckle here and there also. Quite interesting!
Absolutely worth what I paid for it! Pick it up!
- CJ
Ha ha. Pretty sure I have!
This book was a Dollar Tree find!
This book is a continuation of the story line from "300", which is something I did not know, when I decided to purchase it, and it was a pleasant surprise!
Young Nikias fights for his life, and the life if his lover, against Thebans in the city of Plataea, which had never been overtaken, until now.
Brutal fight scenes in this book, and a chuckle here and there also. Quite interesting!
Absolutely worth what I paid for it! Pick it up!
- CJ
January 26, 2015
This one is an absolute ten on all sides. After having read “The One Armed Warrior” which is the prequel to this novel, my expectations were high for this novel. Smith carried through with the same force of writing on this novel as in the prequel and left me craving the next in the trilogy.
Nikias, our hero the perfect mix of boy becoming a man. Struggling against his own youth to become his own man, wanting so much to prove himself in the eyes of his grandfather, and at his darkest moments his heroism truly shines. Equally impressive in this piece is Menesarkus, hero of the Persian war, the “Bull Of Plataea”, now getting on years, fighting his own demons as his body no longer allows him to live as he's accustomed; and during a skirmish with Nikias that he comes to this realization
The relationship between these two will be a hit to fathers and sons the world over, its that classic struggle of the young man to gain his independence, while still needing that approval, all tied up with the impetuousness of youth. Its also the story of the older man, wanting to remain strong and fearless in the eyes of his family, fighting a body that age has taken its toll, and while the mind is young and fearless, the bones and muscle are aged and weak.
This one heats up, as the battle for Plataea comes to life. Smith delivers a thrilling battle, and pulls no punches when it comes to the brutality of war in ancient Greece. The scenes are gritty, strong, sometimes grotesque and paint a vivid picture of what it would have been like to be trapped within your own walls, with no way out except through the enemy who holds the gate. One truly feels that these characters are in a battle to save their home and lives. Risking certain death to overcome their enemies; betrayed by one of their own.
The writing in this piece is bold, the characters are strong, and even in the midst of a violent battle, you are drawn into the romance between Nikias and Kallisto, the relationship between Nikias and his grandfather, and many more. Smith’s characters are real, in that they all carry their own fears, frustrations, secrets, plots plans and agendas. And not to give the tale away, but one even finds the most traitorous of them all can pull a little compassion from the reader as the story unfolds.
Brilliantly written, it is one that could be read as a stand-alone novel, or as part of the trilogy. Smith has developed in its pages sufficient story lines to easily carry over into a second piece, while giving the one time reader everything they need to thoroughly enjoy this as a stand alone piece. That said, if you aren’t chomping the bit for the 2nd book by the end of this one, this reader would be more than surprised.
Check out the full review @ http://ibereadin.wordpress.com/2013/0...
Nikias, our hero the perfect mix of boy becoming a man. Struggling against his own youth to become his own man, wanting so much to prove himself in the eyes of his grandfather, and at his darkest moments his heroism truly shines. Equally impressive in this piece is Menesarkus, hero of the Persian war, the “Bull Of Plataea”, now getting on years, fighting his own demons as his body no longer allows him to live as he's accustomed; and during a skirmish with Nikias that he comes to this realization
Menesarkus realized, with a sinking in his gut, that he was afraid of his grandson. He did not want to fight him anymore today. He did not want to be beaten.
The relationship between these two will be a hit to fathers and sons the world over, its that classic struggle of the young man to gain his independence, while still needing that approval, all tied up with the impetuousness of youth. Its also the story of the older man, wanting to remain strong and fearless in the eyes of his family, fighting a body that age has taken its toll, and while the mind is young and fearless, the bones and muscle are aged and weak.
This one heats up, as the battle for Plataea comes to life. Smith delivers a thrilling battle, and pulls no punches when it comes to the brutality of war in ancient Greece. The scenes are gritty, strong, sometimes grotesque and paint a vivid picture of what it would have been like to be trapped within your own walls, with no way out except through the enemy who holds the gate. One truly feels that these characters are in a battle to save their home and lives. Risking certain death to overcome their enemies; betrayed by one of their own.
The writing in this piece is bold, the characters are strong, and even in the midst of a violent battle, you are drawn into the romance between Nikias and Kallisto, the relationship between Nikias and his grandfather, and many more. Smith’s characters are real, in that they all carry their own fears, frustrations, secrets, plots plans and agendas. And not to give the tale away, but one even finds the most traitorous of them all can pull a little compassion from the reader as the story unfolds.
Brilliantly written, it is one that could be read as a stand-alone novel, or as part of the trilogy. Smith has developed in its pages sufficient story lines to easily carry over into a second piece, while giving the one time reader everything they need to thoroughly enjoy this as a stand alone piece. That said, if you aren’t chomping the bit for the 2nd book by the end of this one, this reader would be more than surprised.
Check out the full review @ http://ibereadin.wordpress.com/2013/0...
April 6, 2016
If you like action, suspense, political intrigue and romance, set during an actual historical event in Ancient Greece, this novel is for you.
The author took a little known but important event that started the Peloponnesian War in 431 B.C., marking the bloody war between the democracy of Athens and the tyranny of Sparta which lasted more than twenty-five years. This was the sneak attack by Thebes, aligned with Sparta, against Athens ally, Plataea. Caught between these superpowers, the independent city-state became the arena where their battle for control of all of Greece began.
In this mix we find the young Greek Nikias, who dreams of glory in the Olympic games as he trains for the pankration―the no-holds-barred ultimate fighting of the era (much like today's cage fighting but far brutal). Unfortunately, he accused of raping the woman he loves by her family and killing one of her brothers. He is arrested and imprisoned. While in jail, a traitor opens the city gates to a surprise attack force of Thebans.
As the Plataeans fight for their lives, Nikias makes a daring escape from prison and flees to the countryside. He gathers the city's border guards and a hodge-podge of volunteers and leads them into a suicidal battle at the gates of the citadel.
I will not tell you the story's ending. However, it is obvious the author has conducted a masterful job of research, not only about the political events, but everyday life in ancient Greece. He brings his characters, historical and fictional, to life. You either love or hate them. He uses the five senses of sight, smell, feel, taste and touch to maximum effect.
But above all else, Noble Smith tells a masterful story. Again I say, STORY, not HISTORY. Keep this in mind when reading the novel. If you want to read a history of the Peloponnesian War, I suggest you look elsewhere, e.g. The Peloponnesian War by Thucydides or a book by a more contemporary author.
This novel rates a genuine five stars.
The author took a little known but important event that started the Peloponnesian War in 431 B.C., marking the bloody war between the democracy of Athens and the tyranny of Sparta which lasted more than twenty-five years. This was the sneak attack by Thebes, aligned with Sparta, against Athens ally, Plataea. Caught between these superpowers, the independent city-state became the arena where their battle for control of all of Greece began.
In this mix we find the young Greek Nikias, who dreams of glory in the Olympic games as he trains for the pankration―the no-holds-barred ultimate fighting of the era (much like today's cage fighting but far brutal). Unfortunately, he accused of raping the woman he loves by her family and killing one of her brothers. He is arrested and imprisoned. While in jail, a traitor opens the city gates to a surprise attack force of Thebans.
As the Plataeans fight for their lives, Nikias makes a daring escape from prison and flees to the countryside. He gathers the city's border guards and a hodge-podge of volunteers and leads them into a suicidal battle at the gates of the citadel.
I will not tell you the story's ending. However, it is obvious the author has conducted a masterful job of research, not only about the political events, but everyday life in ancient Greece. He brings his characters, historical and fictional, to life. You either love or hate them. He uses the five senses of sight, smell, feel, taste and touch to maximum effect.
But above all else, Noble Smith tells a masterful story. Again I say, STORY, not HISTORY. Keep this in mind when reading the novel. If you want to read a history of the Peloponnesian War, I suggest you look elsewhere, e.g. The Peloponnesian War by Thucydides or a book by a more contemporary author.
This novel rates a genuine five stars.
January 26, 2022
Book Review – Sons of Zeus – Noble Smith
Sons of Zeus, Book I of the Warrior Trilogy by Noble Smith is probably one of the best historical fiction novels that I have ever read. It’s definitely in line with Steven Pressfield's Gates of Fire (a Jack Carr recommended read.) The book takes the reader on a "deep dive" into the fall of Plataea (Ancient Greece) and explains how the citizens of Plataea were caught in a no-win situation, caught in the middle of two Superpowers (Sparta and Athens) that were at each other's throats. It's cinematic and exciting, but meticulously researched. Author Noble Smith obviously did an outstanding job writing this unique Greek mythology thriller. The book is nonstop action into ancient Greek politics, religion, cultural and sexual practices. Sons of Zeus is obviously well-researched and takes the reader to a place where they most likely have never been before. It was well-written and thoroughly studied. The astute writing made me imagine each of the characters as they fought their battles and practiced their strange sense of honor and ethics. Smith fleshes out amazing detail that is three dimensional with believable characters and artfully crafted battle scenes. The historical details will impress any history buff with their accuracy. The main character, Nikias, is a complex and interesting protagonist. He's a fighter, but he's also a poet that lives by a strict code of honor but is willing to do anything to stop the genocidal invaders from destroying his city and family. Again, a well written, highly researched book that excites with the fact that you're reading history, yet it's not a dry historical tale, but a sensational piece of writing that leaves you wanting more. This is not my typical genre, but I felt like I was watching a movie in my head while reading this book - I had a hard time putting it down. Fun and captivating read!
Sons of Zeus, Book I of the Warrior Trilogy by Noble Smith is probably one of the best historical fiction novels that I have ever read. It’s definitely in line with Steven Pressfield's Gates of Fire (a Jack Carr recommended read.) The book takes the reader on a "deep dive" into the fall of Plataea (Ancient Greece) and explains how the citizens of Plataea were caught in a no-win situation, caught in the middle of two Superpowers (Sparta and Athens) that were at each other's throats. It's cinematic and exciting, but meticulously researched. Author Noble Smith obviously did an outstanding job writing this unique Greek mythology thriller. The book is nonstop action into ancient Greek politics, religion, cultural and sexual practices. Sons of Zeus is obviously well-researched and takes the reader to a place where they most likely have never been before. It was well-written and thoroughly studied. The astute writing made me imagine each of the characters as they fought their battles and practiced their strange sense of honor and ethics. Smith fleshes out amazing detail that is three dimensional with believable characters and artfully crafted battle scenes. The historical details will impress any history buff with their accuracy. The main character, Nikias, is a complex and interesting protagonist. He's a fighter, but he's also a poet that lives by a strict code of honor but is willing to do anything to stop the genocidal invaders from destroying his city and family. Again, a well written, highly researched book that excites with the fact that you're reading history, yet it's not a dry historical tale, but a sensational piece of writing that leaves you wanting more. This is not my typical genre, but I felt like I was watching a movie in my head while reading this book - I had a hard time putting it down. Fun and captivating read!
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