Books On Board
series Reading Order

Athenian Books in Order

2 Books
2020 – 2021 Published
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Reading order
01
The Gates of Athens
The Gates of Athens
2020
Amazon
02
Protector
2021
Amazon

The Recommended Reading Order

To experience the full sweep of Conn Iggulden’s ancient Greek historical fiction, we recommend reading his books in chronological order, which also aligns with their publication order. This pathway begins with the Greco-Persian Wars and flows directly into the rise of the Athenian Empire through a generation-spanning narrative.

1. The Athenian Duology

  • The Gates of Athens (2020) – Set in 490 B.C., this book introduces the threat of the Persian invasion under King Darius, culminating in the Battle of Marathon. It establishes the key historical figures Xanthippus and Themistocles.
  • Protector (2021) – Set in 480 B.C., this book continues the conflict as Xerxes launches a massive invasion, forcing the Greeks to defend their homeland at Salamis and Plataea.

2. The Golden Age Duology (The Athenian Empire Series)

While the Athenian series officially ends as a duology, the story continues directly with the Golden Age duology. This sequel series follows Pericles, the son of Xanthippus, and tracks the rise of the Athenian empire and the brewing conflict with Sparta.

  • The Lion (2022) – Focuses on Pericles’ early life during the final stages of the Persian threat and his rise in Athenian politics.
  • Empire (2023) – Follows Pericles as the leader of Athens as he navigates internal challenges and the rising rivalry with Sparta.

3. The Standalone Greek Novel

  • The Falcon of Sparta (2018) – A standalone novel set in 401 B.C., focusing on the Battle of Cunaxa and Xenophon's march of the Ten Thousand. Since it takes place nearly a century later, it can be read at any point in your journey.

Frequently Asked

QIn what order should I read Conn Iggulden's Greek history books?

Start with the Athenian duology (The Gates of Athens and Protector), follow it with the Golden Age duology (The Lion and Empire), and read the standalone The Falcon of Sparta at any time.

QIs the Athenian series completed?

Yes, the Athenian series is a completed duology. However, the story of Athens continues directly in the Golden Age duology, focusing on Pericles.

QHow does the Golden Age series relate to the Athenian series?

The Golden Age series (The Lion and Empire) acts as a sequel. It follows Pericles, who is the son of Xanthippus, a main character in the Athenian series.

QIs The Falcon of Sparta part of the Athenian series?

No. The Falcon of Sparta is a standalone novel set in 401 B.C. about the march of the Ten Thousand, whereas the Athenian series covers the Greco-Persian Wars (490–479 B.C.).

QCan I read The Lion without reading the Athenian series first?

Yes, The Lion can be read as a standalone, but reading the Athenian series first provides essential context about Pericles' father and the battles that shaped their world.

QWho are the main characters in the Athenian series?

The core characters are the real-life Athenian leaders Xanthippus and Themistocles, alongside other figures like Aristides and Leonidas of Sparta.