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Review: (The) Lion by Conn Iggulden

About the book

(via Penguin Books SA)

The Lion by Conn IgguldenDiscover the rise and fall of the world’s greatest empire in the stunning first instalment of The Golden Age, an epic new series from the nation’s finest historical novelist

After the Gods.

After the Myths and Legends came the world of Men.

In their front rank stood Pericles. The Lion of the Golden Age.

Experience the epic battlefields of Ancient Greece with the master storyteller Conn Iggulden

 

My thoughts

I decided to pick up this book, because I have a friend who is a huge Conn Iggulgen fan. With an interest in historical fiction, and knowing that Conn is one of the “OGs” of the genre, I was keen to read this new release. And, bonus, it is the first in what is set up to be a two-book series.

There is some discussion about the title as well – it is noted at “The Lion” on some websites, but I’ve listened to a fascinating interview with the author on the “Aspects of History” podcast where he noted the title to be “Lion”.

The book opens to a map of the region, as well as a pronunciation guide – which I usually love. Who doesn’t adore a book with a map?

This book follows, Pericles, who is also referred to “The First Citizen of Athens”, from a young man for the period of about a decade. Being eager to please and impress his father, Xanthippus, we see him grow into a reputable leader and strategist. He is a complex and flawed character, so to watch his development is quite exciting.

It also gives you a fascinating insight into the day-by-day activities during that period in history. As it should be, the author’s attention to detail and research is seriously impressive.

• Well-rounded, interesting characters
• Engaging story and story-telling
• Intelligent dialogue
• Political strategy
• Enthralling battle scenes

“It was not that authority came without crushing weight, just that the alternative was living at another’s whim.”

This will be an enjoyable read for anyone with an interest in history, military strategy, and the ancient world!

Read an extract here: The Lion by Conn Iggulden (Penguin Random House SA)

RRR (Roelia Reads Rating) 4/5

Genre: Fiction, Historical Fiction

Series or standalone: Series (book one of two)

Format: Paperback

Pages: 415

About the Author: Conn Iggulden (Goodreads)

Thank you to Penguin Random House SA for the opportunity to read this book.