Gates of Fire by Steven Pressfield (1999, Paperback, Reissue)

First of all, let me just mention that I am Greek. The reason I am mentioning that is because, like all other nations, we greeks love our rich history.

And I was so impressed when I read a book like that from a foreign author. To be honest I was quite skeptical at the beginning. But only in the beginning. When I started reading all my doubts just flew away in a moment.

The book, although many things written are author's imagination, is historically accurate and gives the reader a full understanding of the time back then. The writing of Pressfield is smooth and keeps you wanting to read more and more till you are through. The story is about the battle of 300 Spartans at Thermopylae (which means hot gates in greek). I'm sure that especially after the movie 300 was released most of you already know the story so I won't bother you with historical facts.

What I will say though is that Mr. Pressfield completely overwhelmed my expectations. After the few first pages I totally sank in the book. Every line I read was visualised in front of my eyes, and I felt like I was actually living in Sparta, like all the things I’ve read were actually happening to me. I was in the book. Every turn in the story brought a new heartbeat and grew my anxiety more and more. And consider that I know the story of Thermopylae VERY good!

When I reached the end of the book, I found myself crying. Well, more accurately weeping! Being a bookworm I have read many books, a lot of them moved me, but what happened with Gates Of Fire was out of this world!

I would give this book 10 if I could. Movies should be based to books like that, and everyone can learn something from it! Or simply enjoy some exceptional reading! I have recommended it to everyone I know and got excellent feedback from all of them. I am recommending it to you as well. DO NOT miss the chance and get it!