Anyone familiar with Conn Iggulden will know that his books are well researched and have strong characters.

The Falcon of Sparta is no exception.

I read most of my books on Kindle with the percent complete showing. At around 50%, there is a plot twist that, without the counter, would have led me to think that the book was near its natural ending. I would have read an enjoyable tale had that been the case, instead I read a fantastic story that stood on its own as a brilliant work but that also made me want to read more from the cited references.

Conn makes history come alive and, whilst not unique, stands head and shoulders above his peers in this regard (in my opinion, anyway).

Even if you have little or no interest in the age that this book is set, if you like character led fact based fiction, you simply must read this book.

Having read Conn Iggluden’s other books, I jumped at the chance to review an electronic ARC of his next book. The Falcon of Sparta tells the tale of Prince Cyrus and his attempt to overthrow his brother Artaxerxes with the help of Spartan mercenaries and other armies called to his banner. Set approx 70 years after the famed battle of Thermopylae, the book cements Conn Iggludens reputation as a master of historical fiction. From amazing battles to truly jaw dropping moments this book has it all. A must for fans of 300, and one of the best historical fiction novels ever written. A must read.

Fact woven superbly into fiction, based mainly on the actual words of Xenephon and others. A true work of Faction that, for me, was a real page-turner. Even the supporting roles were "real" and the attention to detail was enlightening. How such a disparate mass of people could actually achieve what those in the story achieved is unbelievable, so much so that I needed a reality check from time to time to grasp this book is rooted in fact, not fiction. I'm not sure how Conn Iggulden is going to follow this but I am most certainly looking forward to it.

4.5 stars

In 401 BCE a force made up of mainly Greek mercenary units marched inland in an attempt to wrest the throne of the Persian Empire from Atarxerxes II. The 'ten thousand'found themselves without reliable allies, food or supplies inside enemy territory in whatvshould have been the biggest logistical war disaster of the ancient world. And yet that's not how it went down.

This was a historical period I knew little about and Iggulden brings his usual flare for historical story telling to produce perhaps one of his best novels. It's not a short book but I binge read it in 24hrs. The characters, political intrigues and battles were perfectly balanced to create a truly compulsive read. Thouroughly enjoyed this marvellous standalone novel.

The Falcon of Sparta is yet another hugely enjoyable historical fiction romp from Conn Iggulden.

Continuing the trend started last year with Dunstan, Iggulden has written another standalone novel. Its a great, fast paced page turner. Its a period of ancient history i was unaware of, which added to my excitement and enjoyment. The central cast of characters are great; i just love it when authors nail these authentic ancient Greek characters, and Iggulden has managed it in the vein of Christian Cameron and Steven Pressfield.

My only issue with the book, and it is a minor one, is the abrupt ending. It felt like id been on this epic journey with the characters, for it to suddenly end. As with Dunstan, i feel like if this story had been spread out over a few more books, Iggulden could have added so much more depth, and it would have allowed him to end the book more progressively.

However it shouldnt take away from the fact that i really enjoyed my time spent with this read.

3.5 stars

A popular retelling of Xenophon's 'Anabasis' or 'The Persian Expedition' as translated by Penguin Classics: the march of a Greek mercenary army out of Persia pursued by imperial forces. The premise is epic, there's plenty of bloodshed and stoic heroism. Iggulden goes to some lengths to flesh out the story and give context to the march for those less well up on ancient history. The narrative comes to life when the Spartans are on stage, laconic and fearless, accepting of death when it comes while embracing life. Less charismatic is Xenophon himself: and given that his is the source for the story, it's impossible not to give him more page space than perhaps he deserves.

A good introduction to an event which helps bridge the time between 5th century classical Athens and the birth of Alexander the Great.