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Athenian #1
The Gates of Athens
490 B.C.
Two great empires are about to go to war . . .
The momentous struggle between Athens and Sparta as rival powers and political systems will last for twenty-seven years (431 to 404 BC).
It will end in the fall of a dynasty.
Filled with cunning political scheming and astonishing military prowess, invasions and treacheries, plagues and slaughters, passion and power, Conn Iggulden brings to life one of the most thrilling chapters of the ancient world.
Two great empires are about to go to war . . .
The momentous struggle between Athens and Sparta as rival powers and political systems will last for twenty-seven years (431 to 404 BC).
It will end in the fall of a dynasty.
Filled with cunning political scheming and astonishing military prowess, invasions and treacheries, plagues and slaughters, passion and power, Conn Iggulden brings to life one of the most thrilling chapters of the ancient world.
464 pages, Paperback
First published August 6, 2020
821 people are currently reading
5180 people want to read
About the author
Conn Iggulden
145 books6,052 followersAlso publishes under author name C.F. Iggulden.
I was born in the normal way in 1971, and vaguely remember half-pennies and sixpences. I have written for as long as I can remember: poetry, short stories and novels. It’s what I always wanted to do and read English at London University with writing in mind. I taught English for seven years and was Head of English at St. Gregory’s RC High School in London by the end of that period. I have enormous respect for those who still labour at the chalk-face. In truth, I can’t find it in me to miss the grind of paperwork and initiatives. I do miss the camaraderie of the smokers’ room, as well as the lessons where their faces lit up as they understood what I was wittering on about.
My mother is Irish and from an early age she told me history as an exciting series of stories – with dates. My great-grandfather was a Seannachie, so I suppose story-telling is in the genes somewhere. My father flew in Bomber Command in WWII, then taught maths and science. Perhaps crucially, he also loved poetry and cracking good tales. Though it seems a dated idea now, I began teaching when boys were told only girls were good at English, despite the great names that must spring to mind after that statement. My father loved working with wood and equations, but he also recited ‘Vitai Lampada’ with a gleam in his eye and that matters, frankly.
I’ve always loved historical fiction as a genre and cut my teeth on Hornblower and Tai-Pan, Flashman, Sharpe and Jack Aubrey. I still remember the sheer joy of reading my first Patrick O’Brian book and discovering there were nineteen more in the series. I love just about anything by David Gemmell, or Peter F. Hamilton or Wilbur Smith. I suppose the one thing that links all those is the love of a good tale.
That’s about it for the moment. If you’d like to get in touch with me leave a comment in the forum or you can tweet me @Conn_Iggulden. I’ll leave it there for the moment. If you’ve read my books, you know an awful lot about the way I think already. There’s no point overdoing it.
Conn Iggulden
I was born in the normal way in 1971, and vaguely remember half-pennies and sixpences. I have written for as long as I can remember: poetry, short stories and novels. It’s what I always wanted to do and read English at London University with writing in mind. I taught English for seven years and was Head of English at St. Gregory’s RC High School in London by the end of that period. I have enormous respect for those who still labour at the chalk-face. In truth, I can’t find it in me to miss the grind of paperwork and initiatives. I do miss the camaraderie of the smokers’ room, as well as the lessons where their faces lit up as they understood what I was wittering on about.
My mother is Irish and from an early age she told me history as an exciting series of stories – with dates. My great-grandfather was a Seannachie, so I suppose story-telling is in the genes somewhere. My father flew in Bomber Command in WWII, then taught maths and science. Perhaps crucially, he also loved poetry and cracking good tales. Though it seems a dated idea now, I began teaching when boys were told only girls were good at English, despite the great names that must spring to mind after that statement. My father loved working with wood and equations, but he also recited ‘Vitai Lampada’ with a gleam in his eye and that matters, frankly.
I’ve always loved historical fiction as a genre and cut my teeth on Hornblower and Tai-Pan, Flashman, Sharpe and Jack Aubrey. I still remember the sheer joy of reading my first Patrick O’Brian book and discovering there were nineteen more in the series. I love just about anything by David Gemmell, or Peter F. Hamilton or Wilbur Smith. I suppose the one thing that links all those is the love of a good tale.
That’s about it for the moment. If you’d like to get in touch with me leave a comment in the forum or you can tweet me @Conn_Iggulden. I’ll leave it there for the moment. If you’ve read my books, you know an awful lot about the way I think already. There’s no point overdoing it.
Conn Iggulden
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 389 reviews
July 9, 2022
I now have a YouTube channel that I run with my brother, called 'The Brothers Gwynne'. Check it out - The Brothers Gwynne
A magnificent historical sequence of events told through the mind of one of the greatest historical writers out there, and this numbers amongst his best works.
Conn Iggulden is one of my favourite authors because over the course of the many books I have read by him, I have never been disappointed. His first escapade into Ancient Greek history was The Falcon of Sparta, which was in my opinion a great, tense and engaging story, however overall did not hit the peak of his skill as a writer, in my opinion.
But wow, how amazing The Gates of Athens was. One of my favourite historical fiction books of all time. Actually, one of my favourite books of all time, regardless of genre. In this we experience the battle of Marathon, as well as Thermopalae, and much more, with Conn Iggulden somehow crafting magnificent characters in a subtle and understated manner that paid off so, so well.
“I send this shaft as my vow,” Xerxes heard his father murmur. “God, let me punish the Athenians as they deserve.”
Conn Iggulden works in a subtle, understated and patient way with simple and effective prose, which builds up to amazing moments, both small and large scale, wherein Conn Iggulden shocks you by showing how much you care about these characters, when before you did not realise the extent to which you are engaged in this tale, to my mind anyway. Themistocles, Xanthippus and Aristides are the three key perspectives, with the odd section with someone else, and these three central figures are very different, but all interact with each other, with these moments forming some of the best moments of the book. Fantastic characterisation that exceeds in my opinion what Iggulden accomplished even in his Conqueror series.
This is a period of history that I have always been interested in and fascinated by. It is a tale that has heroic acts, almost inconceivable victories and a story that allows for the exploration Hellenic culture. The Gates of Athens delivers on all accounts, stripping away the romanticism of battle, whilst still sharing the bravery and courage of individuals and showing how an idea or concept of something larger than yourself can motivate people to incredible acts.
“They will not let one man rise to rule, not without tearing him down. How long will you last, without me to stand on the other side of the scales? How long before they see you stand alone?”
Also, this is one of those rare books that made me cry. I made it to the very final page, and then Conn Iggulden delivered a low-blow. I was prepared for tragedy throughout, as I needed to be, but let my guard down. Anyone who has read this, I imagine you know what I mean! A low-blow, but a genius one at that. The last image is so beautifully tragic and moving.
Amazing plot progression and alteration of pace throughout, with a variety of historical figures, all whilst drip feeding historical information that was so interesting and educational whilst not detracting from the main focuses. Masterful.
5/5 STARS
A magnificent historical sequence of events told through the mind of one of the greatest historical writers out there, and this numbers amongst his best works.
Conn Iggulden is one of my favourite authors because over the course of the many books I have read by him, I have never been disappointed. His first escapade into Ancient Greek history was The Falcon of Sparta, which was in my opinion a great, tense and engaging story, however overall did not hit the peak of his skill as a writer, in my opinion.
But wow, how amazing The Gates of Athens was. One of my favourite historical fiction books of all time. Actually, one of my favourite books of all time, regardless of genre. In this we experience the battle of Marathon, as well as Thermopalae, and much more, with Conn Iggulden somehow crafting magnificent characters in a subtle and understated manner that paid off so, so well.
“I send this shaft as my vow,” Xerxes heard his father murmur. “God, let me punish the Athenians as they deserve.”
Conn Iggulden works in a subtle, understated and patient way with simple and effective prose, which builds up to amazing moments, both small and large scale, wherein Conn Iggulden shocks you by showing how much you care about these characters, when before you did not realise the extent to which you are engaged in this tale, to my mind anyway. Themistocles, Xanthippus and Aristides are the three key perspectives, with the odd section with someone else, and these three central figures are very different, but all interact with each other, with these moments forming some of the best moments of the book. Fantastic characterisation that exceeds in my opinion what Iggulden accomplished even in his Conqueror series.
This is a period of history that I have always been interested in and fascinated by. It is a tale that has heroic acts, almost inconceivable victories and a story that allows for the exploration Hellenic culture. The Gates of Athens delivers on all accounts, stripping away the romanticism of battle, whilst still sharing the bravery and courage of individuals and showing how an idea or concept of something larger than yourself can motivate people to incredible acts.
“They will not let one man rise to rule, not without tearing him down. How long will you last, without me to stand on the other side of the scales? How long before they see you stand alone?”
Also, this is one of those rare books that made me cry. I made it to the very final page, and then Conn Iggulden delivered a low-blow. I was prepared for tragedy throughout, as I needed to be, but let my guard down. Anyone who has read this, I imagine you know what I mean! A low-blow, but a genius one at that. The last image is so beautifully tragic and moving.
Amazing plot progression and alteration of pace throughout, with a variety of historical figures, all whilst drip feeding historical information that was so interesting and educational whilst not detracting from the main focuses. Masterful.
5/5 STARS
April 21, 2020
Marathon.
Thermopylae.
Battles of legend...
And near irresistible to historical fiction writers. But if anyone is looking for non-stop bloodshed, they won't find it here. What Iggulden does in The Lion Shield/The Gates of Athens is weave the fighting into the wider politics of the period, focused primarily through the city-state of Athens. Xanthippus and Themistocles provide the main two POVs, their conflict and/or comradeship the means though which Athenian 'democracy' and its limitations is explored. This choice allows the reader to see more than just men at war, giving flashes of life in the home, agora, and assembly.
It does, however, mean there are constraints on how much time the author can spend on the battle scenes. Equally, the attempt to bring in all the big names, from Darius to Xerxes to Leonidas, means there is an inevitable limitation to how well we can know them. But if you want to have first person accounts of all the significant events, that's the only way you can do it. Both the time and geographical period of the Greco-Persian Wars are too spread out, with changing players. The Battle of Marathon in 490 BCE was part of the first invasion led by Darius, with Thermypolae and the naval Battle of Artemisium in 480 BCE as the openers of the second invasion under Xerxes. Those coming into the book expecting a long time spent at Thermopylae may be disappointed. It was certainly given less time than I expected but nevertheless it remained impactful. How could it not, when we are all so familiar with various fictional retellings of that legendary battle. And perhaps that's why Iggulden left it largely alone. What he focuses on instead is the sea. For me, it was a welcome and effective decision, feeling fresh and pretty damn thrilling. I can't wait to see what he does with Salamis.
ARC via Netgalley
Thermopylae.
Battles of legend...
And near irresistible to historical fiction writers. But if anyone is looking for non-stop bloodshed, they won't find it here. What Iggulden does in The Lion Shield/The Gates of Athens is weave the fighting into the wider politics of the period, focused primarily through the city-state of Athens. Xanthippus and Themistocles provide the main two POVs, their conflict and/or comradeship the means though which Athenian 'democracy' and its limitations is explored. This choice allows the reader to see more than just men at war, giving flashes of life in the home, agora, and assembly.
It does, however, mean there are constraints on how much time the author can spend on the battle scenes. Equally, the attempt to bring in all the big names, from Darius to Xerxes to Leonidas, means there is an inevitable limitation to how well we can know them. But if you want to have first person accounts of all the significant events, that's the only way you can do it. Both the time and geographical period of the Greco-Persian Wars are too spread out, with changing players. The Battle of Marathon in 490 BCE was part of the first invasion led by Darius, with Thermypolae and the naval Battle of Artemisium in 480 BCE as the openers of the second invasion under Xerxes. Those coming into the book expecting a long time spent at Thermopylae may be disappointed. It was certainly given less time than I expected but nevertheless it remained impactful. How could it not, when we are all so familiar with various fictional retellings of that legendary battle. And perhaps that's why Iggulden left it largely alone. What he focuses on instead is the sea. For me, it was a welcome and effective decision, feeling fresh and pretty damn thrilling. I can't wait to see what he does with Salamis.
ARC via Netgalley
November 6, 2025
3 stars
short review for busy readers:
A fast paced, vividly rendered recounting of the beginning of the Greco-Persian War of 490 BC. The first half is quite engaging, but the second half is nothing more than the minute detailing of a long, drawn-out sea battle. Great for military history buffs, an invitation to skim for the rest of us.
in detail
If there's one major downfall in this historic novel, it's that it goes too deep into 3rd person POV. That is, while the story is still chugging along, time is slowed down so we can take in as much historic detail as possible.
That's not a bad solution to the historic novelists' conundrum of balancing historic detail with an engaging plot. Trick is, you've got to slow down time at interesting places, and I fail to see how almost 150 pages of build up to a sea battle, then battle itself, could possibly be of such great interest to the causal reader.
Iggulden also repeats himself a lot which contributes to the high page count and the reader thinking "yes, you've said that. Yes, we know. Yes, that's been make abundantly clear. Do you think we're stupid or something?"
There were other points I found more politically problematic, such as having Xanthippus, our main Athenian, spout the same slanderous insults as right-wing reactionary groups do today at women who don't want to be mothers/who abort, when his own wife, Agariste, says she doesn't want to get pregnant again. (She's a thief stealing his future offspring from him, a murderer and -- he suspects-- an adulterous whore.)
Doesn't help matters that later she changes her mind and wants so much now to bear a forth child for her hero husband! 🤮 I suppose Iggulden might believe women can't really not want to have babies, babies, babies, even if they say they don't? His right, but to make the reasoning so 1-to-1 with those misogynistic groups today I found extremely problematic.
The good points of the novel are the characterisation of the main protagonists and showing (not telling!) how ancient Athens functioned. You really can get a sense of how different Athenians operated and thought when you see them alongside Spartans and Corinthians. Very, very well done.
There is actually a lot good about this series opener, but the repetitions, the boring af overly long sea battle and the harmful view of the only female character of note brought it down from a solid 4 to a 3 star read.
Buddy read with Sportyrod (thanks Rod!) and LBC book.
short review for busy readers:
A fast paced, vividly rendered recounting of the beginning of the Greco-Persian War of 490 BC. The first half is quite engaging, but the second half is nothing more than the minute detailing of a long, drawn-out sea battle. Great for military history buffs, an invitation to skim for the rest of us.
in detail
If there's one major downfall in this historic novel, it's that it goes too deep into 3rd person POV. That is, while the story is still chugging along, time is slowed down so we can take in as much historic detail as possible.
That's not a bad solution to the historic novelists' conundrum of balancing historic detail with an engaging plot. Trick is, you've got to slow down time at interesting places, and I fail to see how almost 150 pages of build up to a sea battle, then battle itself, could possibly be of such great interest to the causal reader.
Iggulden also repeats himself a lot which contributes to the high page count and the reader thinking "yes, you've said that. Yes, we know. Yes, that's been make abundantly clear. Do you think we're stupid or something?"
There were other points I found more politically problematic, such as having Xanthippus, our main Athenian, spout the same slanderous insults as right-wing reactionary groups do today at women who don't want to be mothers/who abort, when his own wife, Agariste, says she doesn't want to get pregnant again. (She's a thief stealing his future offspring from him, a murderer and -- he suspects-- an adulterous whore.)
Doesn't help matters that later she changes her mind and wants so much now to bear a forth child for her hero husband! 🤮 I suppose Iggulden might believe women can't really not want to have babies, babies, babies, even if they say they don't? His right, but to make the reasoning so 1-to-1 with those misogynistic groups today I found extremely problematic.
The good points of the novel are the characterisation of the main protagonists and showing (not telling!) how ancient Athens functioned. You really can get a sense of how different Athenians operated and thought when you see them alongside Spartans and Corinthians. Very, very well done.
There is actually a lot good about this series opener, but the repetitions, the boring af overly long sea battle and the harmful view of the only female character of note brought it down from a solid 4 to a 3 star read.
Buddy read with Sportyrod (thanks Rod!) and LBC book.
January 13, 2021
Conn Igguilden has written an exciting account of the battles of Marathon and Thermopylae. I was there! With Xanthippus and his hoplites, I fought against the Persian Immortals on the beach at Marathon. I stood with Leonidas, holding the pass at Thermopylae against the Persian forces before succumbing. I fought with Xanthippus again, this time on a trireme against a huge Persian fleet. Igguilden’s research into these events and life in Athens at the time is meticulous. I’d urge anyone with teenagers struggling to learn ancient Greek history to give them this to read as it brings it alive in a way that a textbook never will. The historical note at the end explains the liberties with the facts but they’re few.
This isn’t great literature but it is a very good read. I’m not sure that my review copy is the finished article as there were a few editing issues but they were minor and didn’t affect my enjoyment of the book. A strong 4 stars from me. The best part is that this is the first in a trilogy and I’m really looking forward to the sequel.
With thanks to NetGalley and Penguin UK - Michael Joseph for a review copy.
This isn’t great literature but it is a very good read. I’m not sure that my review copy is the finished article as there were a few editing issues but they were minor and didn’t affect my enjoyment of the book. A strong 4 stars from me. The best part is that this is the first in a trilogy and I’m really looking forward to the sequel.
With thanks to NetGalley and Penguin UK - Michael Joseph for a review copy.
June 8, 2021
AWFUL. When someone reaches a point where this becomes interesting, please WAKE me. DNF O of 10 stars
June 3, 2024
This is the best Iggulden book by a loooooong shot. An absolutely incredibly historical fiction that is dripping with immersion, intensity and heart-pumping moments. This is - dare I say - a masterpiece. The stakes could not be higher, the book keeps a high pace throughout, the characters are written with such attention and entertainment and the action is exhilarating. Absolutely amazing. This is the epitome of Ancient Greek his-fic!
October 19, 2020
This absolutely fascinating book is the 1st volume of a new series called "Athenian", from the acclaimed author, Conn Iggulden, and it describes in a very spectacular fashion the atmosphere and people of the ancient world of Athens, and Greece as a whole.
At the beginning of the book you'll find firstly two quotes of Homer and Aristophanes, followed by three well-drawn maps, of Athens, the "Battle of Marathon", and movement of Persian Forces between 490-480 BC, ending with a list of Pronunciation of Military terms, Locations, Characters, Additional words and the Ten Tribes of Athens.
At the back of the book you'll notice a very well documented Historical Note, in which the author explains the historical details concerning this story in a most splendid fashion.
Story-telling is as always of a top-notch quality from this author, all characters, whether real historical or fantastic fictional, come vividly to life, and the atmosphere of Athens and the great Greek/Persian conflict come superbly off the pages.
The book starts off with a prologue that is set around Sardis, in Lydia, which is part of the Persian Empire, and it figures the High King, Darius, and his son and heir, Xerxes.
The book is divided into two parts, with part one starting off in 490 BC, and the "Battle of Marathon", with most prominently featuring the main figure of the book, the righteous and courageous strategos, Xanthippus, his wife, Agariste, and their children, Ariphron, Eleni and Pericles, the last one a name to remember, and Xanthippus's young friend, Epikleos, and not to forget of course the Hero of Marathon, Miltiades, his son, Cimon, Aristides the "Just", and lastly the ambitious and cunning, Themistocles, and with most of them in part two still in action in 480 BC against the Persians in an effort to save Athens.
What is to follow is a most astonishing novel, and one that I would like to address as very much in comparison with the American author, Christian Cameron, and his Long War series, but Conn Iggulden has given his own interpretation of events between Greece and Persia in a most convincing and compelling fashion, and in such a way that the reader will be attracted in a most fervent manner towards this action-packed story, with lifelike actions and ferocious battles that will bring the Ancient World of Greece v Persia very much alive.
Highly recommended to everyone, I myself look very much forward to the next instalment, and what this first Greek episode is concerned, I want to call it: "A Most Epic Athenian Begin"!
At the beginning of the book you'll find firstly two quotes of Homer and Aristophanes, followed by three well-drawn maps, of Athens, the "Battle of Marathon", and movement of Persian Forces between 490-480 BC, ending with a list of Pronunciation of Military terms, Locations, Characters, Additional words and the Ten Tribes of Athens.
At the back of the book you'll notice a very well documented Historical Note, in which the author explains the historical details concerning this story in a most splendid fashion.
Story-telling is as always of a top-notch quality from this author, all characters, whether real historical or fantastic fictional, come vividly to life, and the atmosphere of Athens and the great Greek/Persian conflict come superbly off the pages.
The book starts off with a prologue that is set around Sardis, in Lydia, which is part of the Persian Empire, and it figures the High King, Darius, and his son and heir, Xerxes.
The book is divided into two parts, with part one starting off in 490 BC, and the "Battle of Marathon", with most prominently featuring the main figure of the book, the righteous and courageous strategos, Xanthippus, his wife, Agariste, and their children, Ariphron, Eleni and Pericles, the last one a name to remember, and Xanthippus's young friend, Epikleos, and not to forget of course the Hero of Marathon, Miltiades, his son, Cimon, Aristides the "Just", and lastly the ambitious and cunning, Themistocles, and with most of them in part two still in action in 480 BC against the Persians in an effort to save Athens.
What is to follow is a most astonishing novel, and one that I would like to address as very much in comparison with the American author, Christian Cameron, and his Long War series, but Conn Iggulden has given his own interpretation of events between Greece and Persia in a most convincing and compelling fashion, and in such a way that the reader will be attracted in a most fervent manner towards this action-packed story, with lifelike actions and ferocious battles that will bring the Ancient World of Greece v Persia very much alive.
Highly recommended to everyone, I myself look very much forward to the next instalment, and what this first Greek episode is concerned, I want to call it: "A Most Epic Athenian Begin"!
October 10, 2025
Ancient Greece and Persia setting 490 to 480 BC.
It began with the razing of Sardis, a contested city. It resulted in a major battle at Marathon. The Persian retaliation relied on the strength of numbers. The Greeks, on their skill in battle. Yet only one of them would win…
In the aftermath, each empire had their own obstacles to overcome. The Persian King was dead and his son Xerxes made an oath of revenge. But first he had get his own people, slaves and all, under control. Meanwhile in Athens the political drama was unfolding. The readers were given a thorough induction on the governing style of the time. Details, details, details. In Athens, decision were determined by voting and no one person would be in charge, as a tyrant-deterrant policy. That made for some entertaining reading. There were even some marital dramas thrown into the mix.
The major battle on Greek soil was promised and delivered. The strategies of Marathon were similar: the arrogance of superior numbers vs skill and discipline only this time there were some shake ups.
I was most impressed with the innovation of Xerxes. His navigational/engineering feat should have been a World Wonder. I was on his side throughout. Themistocles, was my favourite Athenian (hubba hubba). Berengaria, who did a buddy read with me, to find out about Iggulden who I’d been raving about, may have some other opinions. She is the smarter reader of the two, and helped clarify things when I was being detailed-out! Thanks Berengaria. Looking forward to seeing your review.
This was only Book 1 of the two-book series. I am keen to get into it.
Overall: exciting action (4 star zone), good drama (4 star), too much detail at times (3 to 3.5 star zone), well worth the read.
Ps The first completed book in the Long Books Challenge.
It began with the razing of Sardis, a contested city. It resulted in a major battle at Marathon. The Persian retaliation relied on the strength of numbers. The Greeks, on their skill in battle. Yet only one of them would win…
In the aftermath, each empire had their own obstacles to overcome. The Persian King was dead and his son Xerxes made an oath of revenge. But first he had get his own people, slaves and all, under control. Meanwhile in Athens the political drama was unfolding. The readers were given a thorough induction on the governing style of the time. Details, details, details. In Athens, decision were determined by voting and no one person would be in charge, as a tyrant-deterrant policy. That made for some entertaining reading. There were even some marital dramas thrown into the mix.
The major battle on Greek soil was promised and delivered. The strategies of Marathon were similar: the arrogance of superior numbers vs skill and discipline only this time there were some shake ups.
I was most impressed with the innovation of Xerxes. His navigational/engineering feat should have been a World Wonder. I was on his side throughout. Themistocles, was my favourite Athenian (hubba hubba). Berengaria, who did a buddy read with me, to find out about Iggulden who I’d been raving about, may have some other opinions. She is the smarter reader of the two, and helped clarify things when I was being detailed-out! Thanks Berengaria. Looking forward to seeing your review.
This was only Book 1 of the two-book series. I am keen to get into it.
Overall: exciting action (4 star zone), good drama (4 star), too much detail at times (3 to 3.5 star zone), well worth the read.
Ps The first completed book in the Long Books Challenge.
July 3, 2021
This is action-oriented Hist Fic done perfectly. The Gates of Athens is the well-written tale of the battles of Marathon and Thermopylae (aka the inspiration for 300).
Twice Persia invaded Greece, and twice the Greeks stood tall... The book centers on the historical figure of Xanthippus, a wealthy statesman who garnered fame and glory at the Battle of Marathon. A few years after that victory, he chooses sides at trial against a fellow war hero, earning powerful political enemies who find a way to exile Xanthippus to Corinth. When the Persians return to destroy Athens once and for all, will Xanthippus answer the call and fight for the city-state he once loved so well?
Yes. Yes, he will. <-- not a spoiler, cuz it's actual history
Read The Gates of Athens for the action, the character development, and the terrific storytelling. I intend to read all of Conn Iggulden's stuff.
Twice Persia invaded Greece, and twice the Greeks stood tall... The book centers on the historical figure of Xanthippus, a wealthy statesman who garnered fame and glory at the Battle of Marathon. A few years after that victory, he chooses sides at trial against a fellow war hero, earning powerful political enemies who find a way to exile Xanthippus to Corinth. When the Persians return to destroy Athens once and for all, will Xanthippus answer the call and fight for the city-state he once loved so well?
Yes. Yes, he will. <-- not a spoiler, cuz it's actual history
Read The Gates of Athens for the action, the character development, and the terrific storytelling. I intend to read all of Conn Iggulden's stuff.
June 29, 2024
Well that was a real cracker of a read. Iggulden as an Author is good but this was the best I had read so far. Mainly read Roman settings not Greek. From the Battle of Marathon through the maritime battle before Mycale I believe and covering briefly the Spartans at Thermopylae. Ends with maritime evacuation of Athens.
Would have romped through the book quicker. But instead checked every name or reference on Wikipedia. Getting ahead of story at times. The battle of Marathon phalanx descriptions are superb. I often think of the difference in Roman vs Greek battle styles. Why? Don’t ask.
The characters are well rounded. The story is accurate with a few tweaks the Author mentions at the end. Scrounging through charity shops will never get me book 2. So ordering now to be home before return from holiday. Then quickly picked from mailbox and hidden before my wife finds it😉
Need to check if Clemens has read first😢
Would have romped through the book quicker. But instead checked every name or reference on Wikipedia. Getting ahead of story at times. The battle of Marathon phalanx descriptions are superb. I often think of the difference in Roman vs Greek battle styles. Why? Don’t ask.
The characters are well rounded. The story is accurate with a few tweaks the Author mentions at the end. Scrounging through charity shops will never get me book 2. So ordering now to be home before return from holiday. Then quickly picked from mailbox and hidden before my wife finds it😉
Need to check if Clemens has read first😢
November 4, 2025
I picked the audiobook book up having forgotten I've read it before and didn't like it. I enjoyed it more this time around but not one of my favorites.
___
I was so hyped to read this book when I saw it was available on my book app as I've read other series by Conn Iggulden and very heavily enjoyed those. The blurb and the time setting just sounded like a winning concept for me but sadly I was disappointed with the story. I couldn't for the life of me care anything about the characters or plot and most of the time I was bored and just wanted it to end. But I keept reading in hopes for me to finally start enjoying it but it never happened. Probebly had to high of expectations
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I was so hyped to read this book when I saw it was available on my book app as I've read other series by Conn Iggulden and very heavily enjoyed those. The blurb and the time setting just sounded like a winning concept for me but sadly I was disappointed with the story. I couldn't for the life of me care anything about the characters or plot and most of the time I was bored and just wanted it to end. But I keept reading in hopes for me to finally start enjoying it but it never happened. Probebly had to high of expectations
March 15, 2022
Excellent. Without doubt,one of Conn Igguldens’ best. Full of action and intrigue ; the author really brought this period of history to life. Very good indeed.
February 21, 2022
Oh boy do I have opinions on this book...
First of all, for context, I'm trained as a historian specializing in the pre- and early Roman ancient Mediterranean, especially with regards to issues of identity and imperialism.
The Gates of Athens demonstrates everything that is wrong with historical fiction. To a layman it seems well-written and gripping, giving off almost Hollywood-like vibes. It also seems to be based on solid research - most (though certainly not all) of the facts are correct and there's a historical note at the end explaining some of the choices made. This first glance is almost certainly going to give a lot of people the impression that what they've read is at least somewhat historically correct. And they'd be wrong.
The Gates of Athens takes an extremely conservative perspective of classical Athens and the Persian Wars. Most of it seems to be based on a supremely uncritical reading of Herodotus. If you don't know, Herodotus writes essentially a 'great men' history, focusing on the supposed heroic deeds of kings and other elite individuals so that they are preserved for posterity. He doesn't do much source criticism and happily includes myth as fact. This is what Iggulden has essentially copied: The Gates of Athens is about heroic individuals. He even states at the very end that the Battle of Salamis is the story of one man (Themistocles) saving Athens... This sort of history is so outdated I don't even know where to begin. Herodotus' account simply cannot be taken at face value like this - history is too complicated for that. Events like the Battles of Marathon, Artemision, and Thermopylae are not (just) the result of the actions of individuals, there are structural factors at play to take into account. In fact, Iggulden doesn't go into the underlying causes of the Persian Wars at all, instead pinning it on Darius being personally angry because of the Ionian revolt. While this may have been a factor, presenting it as the whole story is downright irresponsible. The way the Persians are presented in this book is in fact problematic as a whole and seriously echoes the Orientalist views of the nineteenth century. The Achaemenid empire is depicted as a brutal despotism entirely dependent on slavery. This is again based on an uncritical reading of Herodotus and has no basis in reality. The Greeks were actually much more dependent on slaves than the Persians and the Achaemenid empire was one of the most tolerant empires ever to exist. Greeks writers demonized the Persians to hell and back, but that is a very biased view that clashes with rest of the evidence.
Speaking of slaves, their perspective is missing entirely from this book. So is the perspective of women, metics, and generally everyone else who isn't part of the Athenian or Spartan elite. You could make the argument that that is not what the book is about so it's okay, but I'd disagree. The author made the conscious decision to focus on 'great men,' leaving out any criticism of rampant Greek misogyny, the intense slavery, the superiority complex Greeks had regarding non-Greeks, etc. etc. Instead he blatantly and uncritically copies the self-serving Greek narrative about the wars, which in my opinion makes him no better than those he copied, with all their misogyny and classism. Athens, and in fact ancient Greece as a whole, had serious issues and this book whitewashes them, and that is simply not okay.
Then there's the final major issue, which is how Iggulden deals with civic identity. In The Gates of Athens, the Athenians adopt a weird kind of pseudo-contemporary nationalism toward their city. The constantly exclaim how much they love Athens, using it as an argument in debates or simply inserting it into random conversations and monologues. Don't get me wrong: the Greeks certainly felt a strong connection to their city, which could certainly spill over into pride. However, there is no indication that this was a major part of everyday life. Instead, it appears in speeches written down by the likes of, again, Herodotus, who wrote decades after the fact and almost certainly invented the content of the speeches to bolster his narrative of the noble Greeks coming together to beat the savage barbarian Persians. Iggulden sees these speeches and apparently identifies them with modern nationalism, which is an anachronism if I've ever seen one.
To conclude: The Gates of Athens presents a conservative and ill-informed perspective on the Persian Wars, based on an outdated, misogynistic, classist, Orientalist reading of Herodotus. It is a perfect example of an author thinking they know how to do history because they can look up facts, but not realizing how horribly misinformed their perspective is.
First of all, for context, I'm trained as a historian specializing in the pre- and early Roman ancient Mediterranean, especially with regards to issues of identity and imperialism.
The Gates of Athens demonstrates everything that is wrong with historical fiction. To a layman it seems well-written and gripping, giving off almost Hollywood-like vibes. It also seems to be based on solid research - most (though certainly not all) of the facts are correct and there's a historical note at the end explaining some of the choices made. This first glance is almost certainly going to give a lot of people the impression that what they've read is at least somewhat historically correct. And they'd be wrong.
The Gates of Athens takes an extremely conservative perspective of classical Athens and the Persian Wars. Most of it seems to be based on a supremely uncritical reading of Herodotus. If you don't know, Herodotus writes essentially a 'great men' history, focusing on the supposed heroic deeds of kings and other elite individuals so that they are preserved for posterity. He doesn't do much source criticism and happily includes myth as fact. This is what Iggulden has essentially copied: The Gates of Athens is about heroic individuals. He even states at the very end that the Battle of Salamis is the story of one man (Themistocles) saving Athens... This sort of history is so outdated I don't even know where to begin. Herodotus' account simply cannot be taken at face value like this - history is too complicated for that. Events like the Battles of Marathon, Artemision, and Thermopylae are not (just) the result of the actions of individuals, there are structural factors at play to take into account. In fact, Iggulden doesn't go into the underlying causes of the Persian Wars at all, instead pinning it on Darius being personally angry because of the Ionian revolt. While this may have been a factor, presenting it as the whole story is downright irresponsible. The way the Persians are presented in this book is in fact problematic as a whole and seriously echoes the Orientalist views of the nineteenth century. The Achaemenid empire is depicted as a brutal despotism entirely dependent on slavery. This is again based on an uncritical reading of Herodotus and has no basis in reality. The Greeks were actually much more dependent on slaves than the Persians and the Achaemenid empire was one of the most tolerant empires ever to exist. Greeks writers demonized the Persians to hell and back, but that is a very biased view that clashes with rest of the evidence.
Speaking of slaves, their perspective is missing entirely from this book. So is the perspective of women, metics, and generally everyone else who isn't part of the Athenian or Spartan elite. You could make the argument that that is not what the book is about so it's okay, but I'd disagree. The author made the conscious decision to focus on 'great men,' leaving out any criticism of rampant Greek misogyny, the intense slavery, the superiority complex Greeks had regarding non-Greeks, etc. etc. Instead he blatantly and uncritically copies the self-serving Greek narrative about the wars, which in my opinion makes him no better than those he copied, with all their misogyny and classism. Athens, and in fact ancient Greece as a whole, had serious issues and this book whitewashes them, and that is simply not okay.
Then there's the final major issue, which is how Iggulden deals with civic identity. In The Gates of Athens, the Athenians adopt a weird kind of pseudo-contemporary nationalism toward their city. The constantly exclaim how much they love Athens, using it as an argument in debates or simply inserting it into random conversations and monologues. Don't get me wrong: the Greeks certainly felt a strong connection to their city, which could certainly spill over into pride. However, there is no indication that this was a major part of everyday life. Instead, it appears in speeches written down by the likes of, again, Herodotus, who wrote decades after the fact and almost certainly invented the content of the speeches to bolster his narrative of the noble Greeks coming together to beat the savage barbarian Persians. Iggulden sees these speeches and apparently identifies them with modern nationalism, which is an anachronism if I've ever seen one.
To conclude: The Gates of Athens presents a conservative and ill-informed perspective on the Persian Wars, based on an outdated, misogynistic, classist, Orientalist reading of Herodotus. It is a perfect example of an author thinking they know how to do history because they can look up facts, but not realizing how horribly misinformed their perspective is.
May 10, 2021
"The Gates of Athens" by Conn Iggulden is a great retelling of the Greek conflict with the Persian Emprire. Starting with Darius' attempt in 490 BC at Marathon, the story then delves into the politics of Athens and Greece in general.
Focusing on Xanthippus (father of Pericles) as he finds in the decade after the battle that politics, as usual, is infecting Athens. They have not prepared for the Persian threat. However, Darius's son and successor, Xerxes, has. The tale follows the machinations of Xeres upon coming to the throne to gather the forces of his empire to annihilate the Greek city-states.
This wonderful story covers the battles of Marathon in 490 BC and the Battle of Thermopylae in 480 BC, where Leonidas and the Spartans held the pass. No, this is REAL history "300" fans- there were more than 300 Spartans only. They were also supported by helots and Períoiko (warriors from the suburbs but not considered Spartan warriors). The story ends with the events that will develop into the Battle of Salamis and the engagement of Plataea in 479 BC. But, apparently, that is for the next volume. Damn it! Great historical fiction about a cool time in the development of Greece.
As someone who travels the world, I appreciate books like this. They give me the benefit of perspective when I see certain sights. A wonderful book and well worth the time for anyone interested in the Greco-Persian conflict. Oh and um "300" fans? Yes, this story does include the Persian Immortals. No, they are not dual-blade-wielding, vampire-ninjas, cloaked in black, wearing silver masks. Just sayin.
Focusing on Xanthippus (father of Pericles) as he finds in the decade after the battle that politics, as usual, is infecting Athens. They have not prepared for the Persian threat. However, Darius's son and successor, Xerxes, has. The tale follows the machinations of Xeres upon coming to the throne to gather the forces of his empire to annihilate the Greek city-states.
This wonderful story covers the battles of Marathon in 490 BC and the Battle of Thermopylae in 480 BC, where Leonidas and the Spartans held the pass. No, this is REAL history "300" fans- there were more than 300 Spartans only. They were also supported by helots and Períoiko (warriors from the suburbs but not considered Spartan warriors). The story ends with the events that will develop into the Battle of Salamis and the engagement of Plataea in 479 BC. But, apparently, that is for the next volume. Damn it! Great historical fiction about a cool time in the development of Greece.
As someone who travels the world, I appreciate books like this. They give me the benefit of perspective when I see certain sights. A wonderful book and well worth the time for anyone interested in the Greco-Persian conflict. Oh and um "300" fans? Yes, this story does include the Persian Immortals. No, they are not dual-blade-wielding, vampire-ninjas, cloaked in black, wearing silver masks. Just sayin.
October 21, 2021
I go into this in the full knowledge that this first book of the series will cover history that ive read in another series – Long War by Christian Cameron – which covers the Greco-Persian war in much more detail (6 books) ….. my real interest is reading a series about the later Peloponnesian wars (Sparta & Athens) which is where this series by Conn Iggulden winds up or so the “book sell” stuff tells us…..
Well, its certainly a synopsis of what has gone before for me! A quick intro (prologue) of the Persian side & next chapter we’re arriving at the battle of Marathon…. The battle itself however is over in a flash without any real detail bar the perspectives of general Datis (Persian) given before battle commences & then from Xanthippus a strategos on the Greek side within his phalanx but even that is sparce, no real tactical reveals or much historical detail bar the banal we looked liked gods in our Bronze, we gave them a good shove…… ok im comparing to another series (historical detail / battle scenes / tactics) but so far this is very ordinary…… very ordinary indeed….. We don’t hear from the Persians during the battle or after even…. Nada! If you wanted battle scenes…… move right along ….
We skip on some time, the story follows Xanthippus POV & his interactions with those around him, mostly Themistocles, it’s all rather banal to be sure, can’t say I really like the character at all, petulant, jealous, prideful, dull as….. all there as his trademark characteristics…… not very endearing at all & he has the political savvy of a mouse which for his station (leading family in Athens) seems jus wrong….. we also don’t really learn much about his wife, family, nor closest friend through his interactions as he’s very self-centred….. It’s a very piecemeal style compared to other works by this author that ive read.
Im struggling after 150 pages whether to stay with this or not? Its all rather dissatisfactory….. Darius & Xerxes make a token appearance from the Persian side for all of around half a dozen pages…… before we’re back with Xanthippus……. And the story sticks with him through his thoughts/descriptions interspersed with some dialogue. And it’s fairly dull at that…..
The summary talks about politics & intrigue but it’s nowhere near the comparison of say a Richard Harris novel with his series on Cicero…. It’s all rather staid rather than a retelling of legends of Athenian democracy…. No flourish at all…
I’m over half way through & I jus don’t get all the high fives & fours out there… Its really quite bland… I think I should have stuck with his Wolves of the plains series & not read any more of his works as he hasn’t really done this period justice at all. Its like Greco-Persian wars “light” with no real substance to get the reader engaged fully….
It does pick up some when the Spartans arrive but that’s not to around pg 275 where we’re now preparing for the arrival of the Persians under Xerxes, where there are far more interactions & actions abound, even a little excitement & tension manages to creep in….. but it soon fades once we’re back with Xanthippus…..
So… I did finish the book, have I been overly harsh on Mr Iggulden….. well I have to say as Ive already mentioned I loved his Wolf of the Plains series, less his saga about the War of the Roses (which I found very up/down across the series) & now even less so this, his Peloponnesian wars opener…. The detail jus isn’t there, it’s a synopsis style, a series of short stories if you will that are knitted together by the commonality of the theme where characters flit in/out, not fleshed out at all bar the main (only) two POV’s of Xanthippus & Themistocles, even then it’s spartan (sorry couldn't resist that one, jus had too!) at that. Ok that’s the style needed to cover it all in one book but by covering so few characters it becomes very staid & his MC is as dull as…….
Peloponnesian Wars “light” is what it is… Long Wars by Christian Cameron is where it’s at….
2.5 rounded down to a two…….
Well, its certainly a synopsis of what has gone before for me! A quick intro (prologue) of the Persian side & next chapter we’re arriving at the battle of Marathon…. The battle itself however is over in a flash without any real detail bar the perspectives of general Datis (Persian) given before battle commences & then from Xanthippus a strategos on the Greek side within his phalanx but even that is sparce, no real tactical reveals or much historical detail bar the banal we looked liked gods in our Bronze, we gave them a good shove…… ok im comparing to another series (historical detail / battle scenes / tactics) but so far this is very ordinary…… very ordinary indeed….. We don’t hear from the Persians during the battle or after even…. Nada! If you wanted battle scenes…… move right along ….
We skip on some time, the story follows Xanthippus POV & his interactions with those around him, mostly Themistocles, it’s all rather banal to be sure, can’t say I really like the character at all, petulant, jealous, prideful, dull as….. all there as his trademark characteristics…… not very endearing at all & he has the political savvy of a mouse which for his station (leading family in Athens) seems jus wrong….. we also don’t really learn much about his wife, family, nor closest friend through his interactions as he’s very self-centred….. It’s a very piecemeal style compared to other works by this author that ive read.
Im struggling after 150 pages whether to stay with this or not? Its all rather dissatisfactory….. Darius & Xerxes make a token appearance from the Persian side for all of around half a dozen pages…… before we’re back with Xanthippus……. And the story sticks with him through his thoughts/descriptions interspersed with some dialogue. And it’s fairly dull at that…..
The summary talks about politics & intrigue but it’s nowhere near the comparison of say a Richard Harris novel with his series on Cicero…. It’s all rather staid rather than a retelling of legends of Athenian democracy…. No flourish at all…
I’m over half way through & I jus don’t get all the high fives & fours out there… Its really quite bland… I think I should have stuck with his Wolves of the plains series & not read any more of his works as he hasn’t really done this period justice at all. Its like Greco-Persian wars “light” with no real substance to get the reader engaged fully….
It does pick up some when the Spartans arrive but that’s not to around pg 275 where we’re now preparing for the arrival of the Persians under Xerxes, where there are far more interactions & actions abound, even a little excitement & tension manages to creep in….. but it soon fades once we’re back with Xanthippus…..
So… I did finish the book, have I been overly harsh on Mr Iggulden….. well I have to say as Ive already mentioned I loved his Wolf of the Plains series, less his saga about the War of the Roses (which I found very up/down across the series) & now even less so this, his Peloponnesian wars opener…. The detail jus isn’t there, it’s a synopsis style, a series of short stories if you will that are knitted together by the commonality of the theme where characters flit in/out, not fleshed out at all bar the main (only) two POV’s of Xanthippus & Themistocles, even then it’s spartan (sorry couldn't resist that one, jus had too!) at that. Ok that’s the style needed to cover it all in one book but by covering so few characters it becomes very staid & his MC is as dull as…….
Peloponnesian Wars “light” is what it is… Long Wars by Christian Cameron is where it’s at….
2.5 rounded down to a two…….
May 24, 2025
Another awesome Conn Iggulden series started! I’m loving this one too, of course. Even though they aren’t exactly historically accurate, Iggulden explains where and why he deviates. It can be irksome if you know the facts but there are some stories that historians cannot prove. When this happens you have different camps each trying to prove their point. Iggulden lets you know what one he has chosen to represent.
I plan to read Tom Holland’s series next.
I plan to read Tom Holland’s series next.
April 1, 2021
Another great read from Conn Iggulden. Once again he seamlessly merges history, fact and exciting fiction to bring alive the lives and times of ancient Persia and Greece.
You can almost taste the blood and horror of battle as the Greeks defend their city from their age old enemy.
I look forward with bated breath to the next book in the series.
Thank you to NetGalley and Penguin UK - Michael Joseph for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
You can almost taste the blood and horror of battle as the Greeks defend their city from their age old enemy.
I look forward with bated breath to the next book in the series.
Thank you to NetGalley and Penguin UK - Michael Joseph for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
July 21, 2020
Conn Iggulden can do no wrong in my eyes and I couldn't wait to read this. This book begins a new series covering the mighty war between Greece and Persia, which began in 490 BC. We see events from the point of view of Athen's heroes from the battle of Marathon and also from Xerxes, the new emperor of the Persian empire. I can't praise this story enough. As well as thrilling war sequences, on land and sea, this is also a human story, presenting the lives of (wealthy) men and women in Athens. I especially enjoyed the treatment of the relationship between Athens and Sparta. This is great stuff and I cannot wait for book 2. Review to follow shortly on For Winter Nights.
October 18, 2021
Loved it.
Was obsessed with Conn Iggulden’s retelling of Genghis Khan while growing up, so I’m so stoked that his new series has started off on an equally captivating note ! Keen for the next installment of his iteration of the Greco-Persian wars.
Was obsessed with Conn Iggulden’s retelling of Genghis Khan while growing up, so I’m so stoked that his new series has started off on an equally captivating note ! Keen for the next installment of his iteration of the Greco-Persian wars.
September 23, 2020
Reviewed from a copy gifted by Penguin Random House SA.
The Gates of Athens is the first book in the new Athenian Series written by Conn Iggulden. The author has a rich imagination and the ability to write what he has written is remarkable. This story is well researched and the details depicting the battles on land and sea are phenomenal. Conn Iggulden brings the Athenian Strategos heroes back to life in his newest historical fiction. Names like Xanthippus, Aristides, Themistocles and Miltiades. We are transported back to 490 BC standing alongside these strategos on the battlefield at Marathon fighting against the Persian army.
Shields cracking, swords clashing and cutting through flesh, commands shouted and arrows whipping through the air. After a tiring battle, the Athenian army returns to Athens with victory from Marathon, but the Persians aren't to be underestimated. They are a force to be reckoned with and while Athens basks in the glory of victory, they are preparing an army for land and sea, fleets of ships, to invade Athens and nothing will stop them.
I struggled to find a good reading pace, the reading felt slow and heavy. It took me longer to finish this book than other books with the same amount of pages. But I decided it's because of the detailed aspect of the story, I tried to absorb every scene as I read it. I usually try to not go into too much detail, because I want the reader to experience the story without preformed opinions. What I will say is that the characters are complex and well developed. My favourite is Aristides with his calm exterior. While the others allow their anger and frustration to surface, Aristides keeps calm, even in the face of the hardest choices. For example, when the Assembly voted and he was exiled, he accepted his exile and he didn't just sit around and mope about it. He used the opportunity to make pots and sold them in the markets of Ithaca.
Each character plays an integral part in the battle on land and sea. I like the way Conn Iggulden describes the landscapes, the way the soldiers lock their shields together with their spears pointing towards the enemy on the battlefield or the smell of the salt in the air when they were on sea. Conn Iggulden includes helpful lists of the pronunciation of military terms, locations and character names. How it is written in Ancient Greek, how it is pronounced in Ancient Greek as well as English and the meaning of each term or name. I have little to no knowledge of the Greek military, so I found the lists extremely helpful.
The Gates of Athens has plot twists, betrayal, loss and forgiveness. But loyalty and the love for a city pushes the people of Athens to fight with everything they have for everything they are. This book is an interesting yet powerful read. Though the ending was a bit disturbing for me, the image of Conis will stay with me. Other than that, I enjoyed the book, it is well researched and it leaves a lasting impression on the reader.
A special thank you to Penguin Random House SA for this gifted copy.
If you enjoyed The Honey and the Sting by E.C. Fremantle or Lion Heart by Ben Kane, you will definitely enjoy The Gates of Athens.
This review is posted on my blog:https://willowscornerbook.wordpress.c...
The Gates of Athens is the first book in the new Athenian Series written by Conn Iggulden. The author has a rich imagination and the ability to write what he has written is remarkable. This story is well researched and the details depicting the battles on land and sea are phenomenal. Conn Iggulden brings the Athenian Strategos heroes back to life in his newest historical fiction. Names like Xanthippus, Aristides, Themistocles and Miltiades. We are transported back to 490 BC standing alongside these strategos on the battlefield at Marathon fighting against the Persian army.
Shields cracking, swords clashing and cutting through flesh, commands shouted and arrows whipping through the air. After a tiring battle, the Athenian army returns to Athens with victory from Marathon, but the Persians aren't to be underestimated. They are a force to be reckoned with and while Athens basks in the glory of victory, they are preparing an army for land and sea, fleets of ships, to invade Athens and nothing will stop them.
I struggled to find a good reading pace, the reading felt slow and heavy. It took me longer to finish this book than other books with the same amount of pages. But I decided it's because of the detailed aspect of the story, I tried to absorb every scene as I read it. I usually try to not go into too much detail, because I want the reader to experience the story without preformed opinions. What I will say is that the characters are complex and well developed. My favourite is Aristides with his calm exterior. While the others allow their anger and frustration to surface, Aristides keeps calm, even in the face of the hardest choices. For example, when the Assembly voted and he was exiled, he accepted his exile and he didn't just sit around and mope about it. He used the opportunity to make pots and sold them in the markets of Ithaca.
Each character plays an integral part in the battle on land and sea. I like the way Conn Iggulden describes the landscapes, the way the soldiers lock their shields together with their spears pointing towards the enemy on the battlefield or the smell of the salt in the air when they were on sea. Conn Iggulden includes helpful lists of the pronunciation of military terms, locations and character names. How it is written in Ancient Greek, how it is pronounced in Ancient Greek as well as English and the meaning of each term or name. I have little to no knowledge of the Greek military, so I found the lists extremely helpful.
The Gates of Athens has plot twists, betrayal, loss and forgiveness. But loyalty and the love for a city pushes the people of Athens to fight with everything they have for everything they are. This book is an interesting yet powerful read. Though the ending was a bit disturbing for me, the image of Conis will stay with me. Other than that, I enjoyed the book, it is well researched and it leaves a lasting impression on the reader.
A special thank you to Penguin Random House SA for this gifted copy.
If you enjoyed The Honey and the Sting by E.C. Fremantle or Lion Heart by Ben Kane, you will definitely enjoy The Gates of Athens.
This review is posted on my blog:https://willowscornerbook.wordpress.c...
May 2, 2023
“No deshonraré mi espada ni mi escudo y no abandonaré la formación. Defenderé todo lo que es sagrado y devolveré la tierra más fértil de lo que la encontré”.
"Las puertas de Atenas" es el inicio de una serie histórica escrita por el conocido autor de la la Saga La guerra de las dos rosas.
En este libro el autor nos relata las célebres batallas de Maratón (490 a.C.) y las Termópilas (480 a.C.), al inicio y al final del libro; pero no se crea como otros en los mínimos detalles de las luchas encarnizadas, sino que las narra desde los personajes que participan en ellas. En medio de éstas encontramos capítulos donde vivimos la época del esplendor ateniense, su democracia, cómo la vivía su pueblo… por supuesto como luchaban algunos por alzarse en el poder… cualquier parecido a nuestra realidad de hoy en día… mejor no sigo por ahí.
Es mi primer acercamiento con la pluma del autor, y puedo decir, que me ha gustado. Es sencilla y solo profundiza en los aspectos que son más importantes de los personajes principales de ambos bandos, los Persas y los Atenienses. El narrador omnisciente nos hace un retrato bien perfilado de la ciudad de Atenas, sus costumbres como civilización y sus políticas de gobierno.
Mi único pero… es que a pesar de narrar desde los personajes, lo que estos hacen y hasta cierto punto sienten, los percibí más bien lejanos… casi ajenos a la historia (perdón si no logro explicarme). Con el único que sentí algún tipo de empatía fue con Jantipo, quizás porque es el eje central de la obra.
Al final, el autor nos regala una Nota Histórica donde detalla los elementos de su amplia documentación y las licencias que se ha tomado.
No soy muy fan de la historia de la Grecia Antigua, sin embargo este autor ha hecho que pase un muy buen rato con este libro, y de seguro leeré su continuación.
"Las puertas de Atenas" es el inicio de una serie histórica escrita por el conocido autor de la la Saga La guerra de las dos rosas.
En este libro el autor nos relata las célebres batallas de Maratón (490 a.C.) y las Termópilas (480 a.C.), al inicio y al final del libro; pero no se crea como otros en los mínimos detalles de las luchas encarnizadas, sino que las narra desde los personajes que participan en ellas. En medio de éstas encontramos capítulos donde vivimos la época del esplendor ateniense, su democracia, cómo la vivía su pueblo… por supuesto como luchaban algunos por alzarse en el poder… cualquier parecido a nuestra realidad de hoy en día… mejor no sigo por ahí.
Es mi primer acercamiento con la pluma del autor, y puedo decir, que me ha gustado. Es sencilla y solo profundiza en los aspectos que son más importantes de los personajes principales de ambos bandos, los Persas y los Atenienses. El narrador omnisciente nos hace un retrato bien perfilado de la ciudad de Atenas, sus costumbres como civilización y sus políticas de gobierno.
Mi único pero… es que a pesar de narrar desde los personajes, lo que estos hacen y hasta cierto punto sienten, los percibí más bien lejanos… casi ajenos a la historia (perdón si no logro explicarme). Con el único que sentí algún tipo de empatía fue con Jantipo, quizás porque es el eje central de la obra.
Al final, el autor nos regala una Nota Histórica donde detalla los elementos de su amplia documentación y las licencias que se ha tomado.
No soy muy fan de la historia de la Grecia Antigua, sin embargo este autor ha hecho que pase un muy buen rato con este libro, y de seguro leeré su continuación.
April 19, 2025
I finished my third read of this book sometime in March and went right into Protector, second book of the series, without overly tiring my brain. People, the older I get, the easier it is to overly tire my gray matter.
Read the book blog about about the the Greco-Persian Wars. Read the Old Testament of The Holy Bible just to get a real feel for the other side of the story.
The author focused on the Sparta and Greek history as they joined forces to defeat Persia. In the battles of Marathon and Thermopylae the history of the world may have been changed. Battle Scenes are generally hard for me to read. The protagonist warriors are usually outnumbered five to one, they are either freezing or burning up, they do not have enough food or fresh water, and they are always filthy in body and dress. Rats. There is always a scene filled with rats. Despite all
these, I like to read this author's battle scenes.
I can find no better author of historical fiction. He writes about real people in real events. His writing mechanics are excellent. In the Historical Note he explains his tweaks of time and facts. I do not understand why all historical fiction readers have not yet read this author. To me writes with the best qualities of Leon Uris, M.M. Kaye, Sharon Kay Penman, and others.
Thank you, Mr. Iggulden, for a good read. Now, if only you were a cowboy....
Read the book blog about about the the Greco-Persian Wars. Read the Old Testament of The Holy Bible just to get a real feel for the other side of the story.
The author focused on the Sparta and Greek history as they joined forces to defeat Persia. In the battles of Marathon and Thermopylae the history of the world may have been changed. Battle Scenes are generally hard for me to read. The protagonist warriors are usually outnumbered five to one, they are either freezing or burning up, they do not have enough food or fresh water, and they are always filthy in body and dress. Rats. There is always a scene filled with rats. Despite all
these, I like to read this author's battle scenes.
I can find no better author of historical fiction. He writes about real people in real events. His writing mechanics are excellent. In the Historical Note he explains his tweaks of time and facts. I do not understand why all historical fiction readers have not yet read this author. To me writes with the best qualities of Leon Uris, M.M. Kaye, Sharon Kay Penman, and others.
Thank you, Mr. Iggulden, for a good read. Now, if only you were a cowboy....
June 10, 2021
Another great read from Conn Iggulden. Once again he seamlessly merges history, fact and exciting fiction to bring alive the lives and times of ancient Persia and Greece.
You can almost taste the blood and horror of battle as the Greeks defend their city from their age old enemy.
I look forward with bated breath to the next book in the series.
Thank you to NetGalley and Penguin UK - Michael Joseph for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
You can almost taste the blood and horror of battle as the Greeks defend their city from their age old enemy.
I look forward with bated breath to the next book in the series.
Thank you to NetGalley and Penguin UK - Michael Joseph for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
March 30, 2025
After finishing ''The Falcon of Sparta'' last year, I was so eager to continue Iggulden's ''Greek series'' of books, while being cautious, because of the well known historical events. Usually, what is deeply engraved in our minds, it doesn't meet our expectations, while the less known events can surprise us in a very positive sense. With this book, I lean more towards that the not so much known parts are handled well (like what's been transpiring between the battles of Marathon and Thermopylae/Artemisium), while the battles leave more to be desired of. However, it doesn't ruin the experience for me, as I wanted to feel the same passion for antiquity as I've had for the movie spectacles of 2000's (in the form of ''Gladiator'', ''Troy'', ''Alexander the Great'' and ''300'') and epic poems during my school years (''The Illiad'', ''The Odyssey'' and ''Aeneid'', respectively). I especially like the relationship between Themystocles and Xanthippus and what moral values the democracy and Athens represent for them, while showing how cunning the former can be for the greater good. It's not a perfectly structured society, but one built with good intentions, so I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
April 26, 2021
Not sure anyone can write these historical battles like Iggulden. His new series is about war between Persia and the Greeks and their Spartan allies. Brilliant battles at Marathon and Thermopylae and a big sea battles on the side. Usual great character and great to read about a time I knew very little about. Exceptional.
January 5, 2023
Conn takes the reader through the major events around the Battle of Marathon and the Battle of Thermopylae through the perspectives of Themistocles, Xerxes, and Xanthippus. I have found all of Conn Iggulden’s books to be enjoyable reads and a great way to learn a lit bit about a new time period. While he obviously takes liberties with many of the details, it is nice to read about famous historical battles in a book that is not dry or super dense.
March 21, 2023
Conn Iggulden is my favourite historical fiction author and its been far too long since I returned to one of his stories.
This book was amazing (in the main).
As with every novel CI writes, we get incredible battles with beautifully detailed tactical decisions.
This story really shines with the character depth and this was my favourite part of the book. By using PoV from both sides, it really did allow for a full immersion into the fantastic story.
There was a bit in the middle that dragged, and it was frustrating to see how quickly forgiveness was given to betrayal. I am not an ancient Greek (shocker, I know) but not sure my City would mean I could forgive that level of deceit and corruption.
This was a great book. Onto to the second one
This book was amazing (in the main).
As with every novel CI writes, we get incredible battles with beautifully detailed tactical decisions.
This story really shines with the character depth and this was my favourite part of the book. By using PoV from both sides, it really did allow for a full immersion into the fantastic story.
There was a bit in the middle that dragged, and it was frustrating to see how quickly forgiveness was given to betrayal. I am not an ancient Greek (shocker, I know) but not sure my City would mean I could forgive that level of deceit and corruption.
This was a great book. Onto to the second one
September 7, 2024
Честно първите сто страници ми бяха мъка. Чак се зачудих какво му става на Игълдън, той е такъв умел разказвач и описва битките така детайлно. Харесвам много поредиците за Цезар и Чингис и предположих, че и тук ще се увлека още с първите думи.
Не стана точно така, но сега след края на първата част, нямам търпение да продължа нататък.
Не стана точно така, но сега след края на първата част, нямам търпение да продължа нататък.
October 9, 2022
Another strong start to what I presume will be another awesome series. Great action, characters, dialogue, and pacing.
November 29, 2020
As I listened to George Blagden narrate Conn Iggulden’s The Gates of Athens, one overwhelming thought came over me: they have been teaching history wrong all these years!
History is not simply a list of names, dates, and battles, history is the story of humanity, of us, how we got to here from there. The Gates of Athens has the names: Themistocles, Xerxes, Leonidas, Darius, among many others, even Pericles makes an appearance. The period of 490 BCE to 480 BCE is covered. We start with The Battle of Marathon, The Battle of Thermopylae and finish with, well, I’ll let you find that out for yourself. The beauty of what Iggulden did was that he made it a narrative. By focusing on one character who lived through these years, we go beyond the names and dates, the history becomes a complete story, the pieces and interactions come together. It is far easier to see and feel the big picture than the traditional way that history is taught.
However, this is not a history lesson, it is a historical fiction. The facts, dates, and personalities can be accurate, but it has to entertain and captivate at the same time. I found the fiction to be a little on the dry side; it lacked the camaraderie of soldiers going to battle, where was the comic relief? I was left with the impression that the ancient Greeks were a dry, sour lot, who only lived to argue with each other and stew over their misfortune. I’ve met Greeks, they are fun-loving and emotional. They love life and people, where was that side of them?
As the start to a series, perhaps I would go on; it would have more to do with Iggulden’s talent for creating a complete mosaic of the history than the story and characters.
History is not simply a list of names, dates, and battles, history is the story of humanity, of us, how we got to here from there. The Gates of Athens has the names: Themistocles, Xerxes, Leonidas, Darius, among many others, even Pericles makes an appearance. The period of 490 BCE to 480 BCE is covered. We start with The Battle of Marathon, The Battle of Thermopylae and finish with, well, I’ll let you find that out for yourself. The beauty of what Iggulden did was that he made it a narrative. By focusing on one character who lived through these years, we go beyond the names and dates, the history becomes a complete story, the pieces and interactions come together. It is far easier to see and feel the big picture than the traditional way that history is taught.
However, this is not a history lesson, it is a historical fiction. The facts, dates, and personalities can be accurate, but it has to entertain and captivate at the same time. I found the fiction to be a little on the dry side; it lacked the camaraderie of soldiers going to battle, where was the comic relief? I was left with the impression that the ancient Greeks were a dry, sour lot, who only lived to argue with each other and stew over their misfortune. I’ve met Greeks, they are fun-loving and emotional. They love life and people, where was that side of them?
As the start to a series, perhaps I would go on; it would have more to do with Iggulden’s talent for creating a complete mosaic of the history than the story and characters.
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