Gates of Fire

by Steven Pressfield
Gates of Fire cover
Good Books rating 4.5
Historical Fiction
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Paperback • £10.99
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  • ID: 1572
  • Added: 2025-10-08
  • Updated: 2025-10-21
  • ISBN: 9780553812169
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2000-01-01
  • Formats: 2
  • Reviews: 4

Gates of Fire is a vivid and immersive retelling of the Battle of Thermopylae, where 300 Spartan warriors faced the vast Persian army. The novel is renowned for its meticulous historical detail and the rich portrayal of Spartan culture and values. Stephen Pressfield's prose brings to life the bravery, discipline, and camaraderie of the Spartans, making it a compelling read for history enthusiasts and fiction lovers alike./n/nThe story is narrated through the eyes of Xeones, a Spartan warrior who survives the battle, providing a unique perspective on the events. The novel explores themes of honor, sacrifice, and the human spirit, set against the backdrop of one of history's most famous battles. It's a powerful blend of historical fiction that captures the essence of ancient warfare and the enduring legacy of the Spartans.

Reviews
Speesh Reads · 2012-04-07
captivating 4.50

The book is thoroughly captivating, well-written, and packed with detail and interesting characters. It builds nicely throughout, leading to a compelling narrative.

The reviewer at Speesh Reads praises 'Gates of Fire' as a thoroughly captivating book that is well-written and rich in detail. They appreciate the depth of the characters and the way the story builds throughout, creating a compelling narrative. The reviewer's positive tone indicates that they found the book engaging and well-crafted, making it a worthwhile read for those interested in historical fiction.

Quick quotes

    It is a thoroughly captivating book, well-written and packed with detail and interesting characters.

    The book builds nicely throughout, leading ...

    The book is thoroughly captivating, well-written and packed with detail and interesting characters.

Dave de Burgh · Dave de Burgh · 2011-01-18
enthralling 5.00

The novel is incredibly enthralling and one of the reviewer's all-time favorites. They highlight its ability to captivate and engage the reader.

Dave de Burgh describes 'Gates of Fire' as an absolutely, incredibly enthralling novel and one of his all-time favorites. His enthusiasm for the book is evident, suggesting that it has a powerful impact on the reader. The reviewer's high praise indicates that they found the book to be a standout piece of historical fiction, with a compelling narrative that keeps the reader engaged from start to finish.

Quick quotes

    Absolutely, incredibly enthralling, and definitely one of my all-time favourite novels.

    For more info about Steven and his work, check out his ...

    Absolutely, incredibly enthralling, and definitely one of my all-time favourite novels.

Dear Author · 2007-09-15
intense 4.50

The book is filled with intense scenes, not just on the battlefield, making it a rare and captivating read. It leaves a lasting impact, with sections that are hard to put down.

This reviewer found 'Gates of Fire' to be an incredibly intense and captivating read. The intensity isn't limited to the battlefield scenes; the emotional and personal moments are equally gripping. They describe it as one of those rare books that leave a lasting impression, where you finish a section and feel compelled to keep reading. The reviewer's enthusiasm suggests that the book's depth and storytelling make it stand out, making it a memorable experience.

Quick quotes

    Wow. The book is filled with intense scenes and not only the battlefield ones.

    This is one of those rare books that I would finish a section and ...

    The book is filled with intense scenes and not only the battlefield ones.

The New York Times · Richard Lefkowitz · 1998-11-01
immersive 4.00

The story is told from a soldier's-eye view, offering a unique perspective that no ancient historian provides. The narrative is engaging and immersive.

Richard Lefkowitz highlights the unique perspective offered by the book, which is told from a soldier's-eye view. This approach provides a fresh and engaging narrative that sets it apart from traditional historical accounts. The immersive quality of the story makes it a compelling read, allowing readers to experience the events as if they were there. Lefkowitz appreciates the depth and the way the story is crafted, making it a memorable and impactful read.

Quick quotes

    In 'Gates of Fire,' Steven Pressfield gives the reader a perspective no ancient historian offers, a soldier's-eye view.

    The story is told by ...

    The narrative is engaging and immersive.

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