Shadows of Athens

When the body of a murdered man is dumped outside the house of aspiring playwright Philocles, he is concerned enough to uncover why the man was killed - especially since nothing had been stolen from the body. 

However, Philocles’ investigation is hindered by the fact that his play (one that could make his name), is due to premiere in a couple of days. 

Philocles finds himself caught between two competing matters.  Firstly, ensuring that his play launches without a hitch and secondly, finding out why the man was murdered, and why the body was left on his doorstep. He embarks upon a dangerous task.  As he investigates the murder, he soon finds that there is much more to this mystery than he first anticipated.

The Shadows of Athens is an intriguing historical murder mystery set in the mid fifth-century with a thoughtful but reluctant detective who would rather be writing plays than investigating a murder. With a great sense of place, one is immediately captivated by the way in which the author has depicted daily life without overwhelming the reader.  One can imagine walking along the streets of Athens, taking in the evocative sights and smells of that era, such is the vivid backdrop conjured up by the author.

With Shadows of Athens we have an excellent combination of history within a mystery that have been intertwined together to form an incredibly well-written narrative. Alvey not only portrays Athens in all its daily feverish light (taking in the daily routines of the Athenians), but also provides a pacey story full of humour, quirky detail, and all within an excellent plot that will keep you riveted to your chair.

This is a wonderful addition to the historical crime genre. Philocles joins the ranks of somewhat reluctant sleuths we want to see on our bookshelves.

Highly recommended.