When an earthquake hits Sparta, the Athenians are willing to offer support, particularly as there is also a slave revolt. This help is snubbed and rising Athenian leader Pericles realises that whilst it may take Sparta time to recover, they will always be an enemy. He persuades the Council to build huge defensive walls. Meanwhile Sparta is starting to grow again under the leadership of young but ruthless man. As Sparta besieges Athens, plague rages and Pericles has the fate of his city and his own family to consider.
Iggulden is comfortable writing these 'sword and sandals' epics but he is also developing as a creative writer. his prose shows far more nuances that in early works and there is a human side shown to the heroes of old. This is a really pacy book wit, of course, excellent battle scenes but a lot of empathy. ( )