The Spartan Dagger: A Novel

Eurytus and his brother Teleklos are Spartans seeking to cement their status as warriors. Their father, Dienekos, has encouraged them on their hunt, known as the Krypkia. They ambush a family of slaves, known as Helots. The brothers ruthlessly dispatch the mother and father. The son, known as Protos, escapes during the attack, but while being pursued by Teleklos, he strikes and kills Teleklos in self defense. The stage has now been set for a showdown between Eurytus and Protos. Protos has become a wanted man. The Spartans are hunting down family members, only to be cut down single-handedly by Protos. Protos is living a solitary existence until he encounters Nubit, a former slave girl from Egypt. Their relationship blossoms while Protos becomes a hero to the Thebes, who have been battling Sparta for years. Meanwhile, Eurytus has evolved from cowardice to true soldier; his knowledge of Protos has aided his side, but both know they will be meeting again, with consequences for both.

The Spartan Dagger is a great telling of a classic revenge tale. The layers to each of the main characters are many and compelling. The battles are richly choreographed and vivid, and the reader is taken in by the imagery. A great read!