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The Heir of Achilles: A Novel
"Part historical novel, part modern day adventure anchored in mythology, 'Achilles' has all the elements of a well-crafted thriller...this story held me captive to the end." — Gary McAvoy, bestselling author of The Magdalene Chronicles.
A legendary discovery. A race against time. A secret that could rewrite history.
When Russia attacked Snake Island in February 2022, millions heard Ukraine’s defiant “Russian warship, go f*ck yourself.” But few knew about the island's mysterious past—where the Greeks believed the souls of their greatest heroes roamed after death.
From the island’s rubble, Russian soldiers unearth relics thought only to exist in myth. As this discovery threatens to reshape the global order, gifted CIA analyst Noa Banks gets a desperate call from her ex-boyfriend, archaeologist Matías Alvarez. His urgent news propels them on a perilous mission, chasing lost clues from the ruins of Greece to the sands of Egypt. Together, Noa and Matías must evade a fearsome enemy as they uncover a hidden legacy that challenges everything they know.
A legendary discovery. A race against time. A secret that could rewrite history.
When Russia attacked Snake Island in February 2022, millions heard Ukraine’s defiant “Russian warship, go f*ck yourself.” But few knew about the island's mysterious past—where the Greeks believed the souls of their greatest heroes roamed after death.
From the island’s rubble, Russian soldiers unearth relics thought only to exist in myth. As this discovery threatens to reshape the global order, gifted CIA analyst Noa Banks gets a desperate call from her ex-boyfriend, archaeologist Matías Alvarez. His urgent news propels them on a perilous mission, chasing lost clues from the ruins of Greece to the sands of Egypt. Together, Noa and Matías must evade a fearsome enemy as they uncover a hidden legacy that challenges everything they know.
- GenresAdventure
374 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 15, 2024
5 people are currently reading
48 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
February 23, 2025
Excellent read!
I really loved the concept when I read the description it kinda had some DaVinci Code vibes. I know I’m in the minority but was t a fan of that book or rather the ending really blew it for me. But I liked the mix here of modern warfare and archeology. There’s the shocking event that still resonates in the invasion of the Ukraine by Russia and then mixed in fact and fantasy incredibly well. You’re drawn in by something you know and then taken on a wild ride. Really well done! I know it says stand alone but I Wa pull for sure read more books in this world. Fabulous job bringing ancient history/mythology alive!
I received an advance review copy from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I really loved the concept when I read the description it kinda had some DaVinci Code vibes. I know I’m in the minority but was t a fan of that book or rather the ending really blew it for me. But I liked the mix here of modern warfare and archeology. There’s the shocking event that still resonates in the invasion of the Ukraine by Russia and then mixed in fact and fantasy incredibly well. You’re drawn in by something you know and then taken on a wild ride. Really well done! I know it says stand alone but I Wa pull for sure read more books in this world. Fabulous job bringing ancient history/mythology alive!
I received an advance review copy from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 29, 2024
The author brilliantly weaves complex layers of Greek mythology / modern geopolitics / ancient history into a captivating archaeological thriller. His imaginative and descriptive writing style made for an exciting and entertaining read.
Hoping for an additional book from the same universe.
Hoping for an additional book from the same universe.
October 24, 2024
Great read!
Captivating read that keeps you involved and entertained. Hard to put down. Great descriptive language that puts you right in the scene. Excellent first book Patrick. I enjoyed it.
Captivating read that keeps you involved and entertained. Hard to put down. Great descriptive language that puts you right in the scene. Excellent first book Patrick. I enjoyed it.
August 28, 2024
Patrick Garvey’s The Heir of Achilles is an exhilarating mystery thriller that combines historical intrigue with high-stakes adventure. Set against the backdrop of a contemporary geopolitical conflict, the novel weaves a tale of ancient myths and modern espionage, presenting readers with a captivating narrative that is both intellectually stimulating and action-packed.
The novel kicks off with a dramatic and timely premise: the Russian invasion of Snake Island in February 2022. While the world watches Ukraine's defiant stance, the story delves into a less-publicized yet fascinating aspect of the conflict—the discovery of ancient relics on the island. These artifacts, long thought to be mere legend, could potentially alter historical understanding and shift global power dynamics.
The plot accelerates as CIA analyst Noa Banks receives an urgent call from her ex-boyfriend, Matías Alvarez, an archaeologist who has uncovered evidence linking the Snake Island finds to an extraordinary historical legacy. This revelation sets off a high-stakes race against time that takes Noa and Matías from the ruins of Greece to the sands of Egypt. Their journey is fraught with danger, as they are pursued by formidable enemies determined to seize the relics for their own purposes.
Garvey expertly combines elements of archaeological mystery with contemporary thriller dynamics. The quest for these legendary artifacts becomes a global chase that pits the protagonists against a ruthless adversary, blending historical depth with edge-of-your-seat excitement. The plot is structured with a series of gripping twists and turns, keeping readers engaged as the stakes escalate and the true significance of the relics is gradually revealed.
Noa Banks is portrayed as a skilled and resourceful CIA analyst, whose professional acumen is matched by her personal determination. Her character is both capable and vulnerable, with Garvey providing insight into her past and her complex relationship with Matías. Noa’s expertise and resilience are crucial to navigating the dangers they face, making her a compelling and relatable protagonist.
Matías Alvarez, the archaeologist, serves as Noa’s partner in this perilous adventure. His deep knowledge of ancient history and artifacts complements Noa’s analytical skills, creating a dynamic and effective team. Their personal history adds emotional depth to the narrative, with past tensions and unresolved feelings influencing their interactions and decisions throughout the journey.
Supporting characters, including allies and antagonists, are well-drawn and add complexity to the story. The enemies pursuing Noa and Matías are portrayed with a palpable menace, contributing to the novel’s suspense and sense of urgency. The interplay between characters and their evolving relationships enriches the plot, adding layers of intrigue and conflict.
The Heir of Achilles explores themes of history, legacy, and the intersection of past and present. The novel delves into the impact of ancient myths on modern geopolitics, examining how the discovery of historical artifacts can challenge contemporary power structures and influence global events. The concept of history’s hidden legacies and their potential to reshape current realities is a central theme, adding intellectual depth to the thrilling narrative.
Garvey’s writing style is engaging and dynamic, with a focus on creating a fast-paced and immersive reading experience. The author skillfully balances detailed descriptions of historical and archaeological elements with high-octane action sequences. The narrative is rich in vivid imagery and atmospheric settings, transporting readers to diverse locales and enhancing the sense of adventure.
Patrick Garvey’s The Heir of Achilles is a compelling mystery thriller that combines historical intrigue with modern espionage. The novel’s fast-paced plot, well-developed characters, and thought-provoking themes create a riveting reading experience. Garvey’s ability to intertwine ancient myths with contemporary geopolitical tensions results in a gripping and intellectually stimulating narrative. For fans of thrillers that blend history with high-stakes adventure, The Heir of Achilles offers a satisfying and exhilarating journey from start to finish.
The novel kicks off with a dramatic and timely premise: the Russian invasion of Snake Island in February 2022. While the world watches Ukraine's defiant stance, the story delves into a less-publicized yet fascinating aspect of the conflict—the discovery of ancient relics on the island. These artifacts, long thought to be mere legend, could potentially alter historical understanding and shift global power dynamics.
The plot accelerates as CIA analyst Noa Banks receives an urgent call from her ex-boyfriend, Matías Alvarez, an archaeologist who has uncovered evidence linking the Snake Island finds to an extraordinary historical legacy. This revelation sets off a high-stakes race against time that takes Noa and Matías from the ruins of Greece to the sands of Egypt. Their journey is fraught with danger, as they are pursued by formidable enemies determined to seize the relics for their own purposes.
Garvey expertly combines elements of archaeological mystery with contemporary thriller dynamics. The quest for these legendary artifacts becomes a global chase that pits the protagonists against a ruthless adversary, blending historical depth with edge-of-your-seat excitement. The plot is structured with a series of gripping twists and turns, keeping readers engaged as the stakes escalate and the true significance of the relics is gradually revealed.
Noa Banks is portrayed as a skilled and resourceful CIA analyst, whose professional acumen is matched by her personal determination. Her character is both capable and vulnerable, with Garvey providing insight into her past and her complex relationship with Matías. Noa’s expertise and resilience are crucial to navigating the dangers they face, making her a compelling and relatable protagonist.
Matías Alvarez, the archaeologist, serves as Noa’s partner in this perilous adventure. His deep knowledge of ancient history and artifacts complements Noa’s analytical skills, creating a dynamic and effective team. Their personal history adds emotional depth to the narrative, with past tensions and unresolved feelings influencing their interactions and decisions throughout the journey.
Supporting characters, including allies and antagonists, are well-drawn and add complexity to the story. The enemies pursuing Noa and Matías are portrayed with a palpable menace, contributing to the novel’s suspense and sense of urgency. The interplay between characters and their evolving relationships enriches the plot, adding layers of intrigue and conflict.
The Heir of Achilles explores themes of history, legacy, and the intersection of past and present. The novel delves into the impact of ancient myths on modern geopolitics, examining how the discovery of historical artifacts can challenge contemporary power structures and influence global events. The concept of history’s hidden legacies and their potential to reshape current realities is a central theme, adding intellectual depth to the thrilling narrative.
Garvey’s writing style is engaging and dynamic, with a focus on creating a fast-paced and immersive reading experience. The author skillfully balances detailed descriptions of historical and archaeological elements with high-octane action sequences. The narrative is rich in vivid imagery and atmospheric settings, transporting readers to diverse locales and enhancing the sense of adventure.
Patrick Garvey’s The Heir of Achilles is a compelling mystery thriller that combines historical intrigue with modern espionage. The novel’s fast-paced plot, well-developed characters, and thought-provoking themes create a riveting reading experience. Garvey’s ability to intertwine ancient myths with contemporary geopolitical tensions results in a gripping and intellectually stimulating narrative. For fans of thrillers that blend history with high-stakes adventure, The Heir of Achilles offers a satisfying and exhilarating journey from start to finish.
June 3, 2025
I really like an academic thriller with a mystery to solve that involves lots of research and travel to interesting historical places, ideally uncovering a deep conspiracy hidden behind the walls of traditional society.
It's like the autistic version of a hard-boiled detective novel, ahem.
In some ways, this book is very much that, and that's also all its best parts. A historical mystery that juxtaposes the mythical Achilles onto the real history and geography of the ancient world, including both close readings of primary texts and on-site archaeological investigations, is awesome. It's so realistic that I literally caught myself thinking for a second in the middle of a chapter that I should Google A.H. Osborne's Lost Tombs of Egypt. Tangent, but how cool of a deep cut would it be to actually publish that book as a proper archaeology book but then slip in clues to an entire upcoming archaeology mystery series? You can have that idea for free!
I also love the equally realistic insertion of the story into current events. A fantastical Russia headed by an evil superhero is a great take because you know if Russia had a superhero it would be doing exactly what it does in this book.
And the book remains very satisfying in that aspect. But the actual thriller parts... I feel like there was stuff that Garvey lost track of, or maybe wrote himself into a corner with? Like, did we ever find out who the spy hidden in the CIA was? And we go through a whole kidnapping scene that's genuinely pretty exciting, and then in the next chapter it's just... fine? He escaped right away so the excitement was pointless? And when our heroes think that people are about to break into Osborne's house they call the police, but it turns out that the guy arriving is just the security guard Noa had arranged, so that's cool... but they never call the police to tell them it's actually fine and also the police never show up.
Noa's panic attack sub-plot is really good and I just wish she'd heard her martial arts coach's voice in her head during her big battle, because that would have been sweet. The entire romance plot was cringe, though, and I wish we hadn't had it. It's probably just me being autistic, but I don't care how hot my ex-boyfriend still is; if there's a supervillain wearing Achilles' armor running around helping Russia take over the world, I'm gonna be more focused on re-reading The Iliad to look for clues to buried ancient cities, thanks.
Nitpick of the Day: Grease runs down someone's chin TWICE in this book, and that is two times too many. People in this world need to eat more neatly and use their napkins.
It's like the autistic version of a hard-boiled detective novel, ahem.
In some ways, this book is very much that, and that's also all its best parts. A historical mystery that juxtaposes the mythical Achilles onto the real history and geography of the ancient world, including both close readings of primary texts and on-site archaeological investigations, is awesome. It's so realistic that I literally caught myself thinking for a second in the middle of a chapter that I should Google A.H. Osborne's Lost Tombs of Egypt. Tangent, but how cool of a deep cut would it be to actually publish that book as a proper archaeology book but then slip in clues to an entire upcoming archaeology mystery series? You can have that idea for free!
I also love the equally realistic insertion of the story into current events. A fantastical Russia headed by an evil superhero is a great take because you know if Russia had a superhero it would be doing exactly what it does in this book.
And the book remains very satisfying in that aspect. But the actual thriller parts... I feel like there was stuff that Garvey lost track of, or maybe wrote himself into a corner with? Like, did we ever find out who the spy hidden in the CIA was? And we go through a whole kidnapping scene that's genuinely pretty exciting, and then in the next chapter it's just... fine? He escaped right away so the excitement was pointless? And when our heroes think that people are about to break into Osborne's house they call the police, but it turns out that the guy arriving is just the security guard Noa had arranged, so that's cool... but they never call the police to tell them it's actually fine and also the police never show up.
Noa's panic attack sub-plot is really good and I just wish she'd heard her martial arts coach's voice in her head during her big battle, because that would have been sweet. The entire romance plot was cringe, though, and I wish we hadn't had it. It's probably just me being autistic, but I don't care how hot my ex-boyfriend still is; if there's a supervillain wearing Achilles' armor running around helping Russia take over the world, I'm gonna be more focused on re-reading The Iliad to look for clues to buried ancient cities, thanks.
Nitpick of the Day: Grease runs down someone's chin TWICE in this book, and that is two times too many. People in this world need to eat more neatly and use their napkins.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 16, 2024
The cover of the book immediately captures the attention with its vibrant colors and intricate design, setting the tone for the mysterious and tension-filled story that lies within its pages. Through the characters of Noa, Matías, and Ian, the reader is introduced to a trio of individuals who each bring their own unique qualities to the narrative. Noa's wit, Matías' determination, and Ian's intelligence create a dynamic interplay that keeps the reader engaged throughout the story. While the character development is commendable, some readers may find themselves wanting more depth and progression in the characters' arcs. However, the vivid descriptions of the atmosphere and settings help to immerse the reader in the world of the story, making them feel as though they are traveling alongside the main characters as they navigate through different locations and challenges. The writing style is both informative and imaginative, blending elements of mystery, fantasy, and thriller seamlessly. Author Patrick Garvey's unique plot not only entertains but also educates, as he expertly weaves together elements of nonfiction and fiction, providing a list of sources for readers who wish to delve deeper into the historical and mythological aspects of the story. The narrative prompts reflection on the legendary tales of Achilles, his armor, and his connections to Alexander the Great, exploring the potential supernatural influences that impact the characters both mentally and physically. This thought-provoking exploration adds an extra layer of depth to the story, inviting readers to ponder the mysteries of Snake Island and the enigmatic legend of Achilles and his armor. The book concludes the plot effectively, yet it also provides an opportunity for the author, Patrick Garvey, to create another book within the same universe, either as a companion novel or a sequel.
Thank You to Netgalley, author, and publisher for sending me a digital e-arc of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Thank You to Netgalley, author, and publisher for sending me a digital e-arc of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 30, 2024
The Heir of Achilles is an archeological thriller written by Patrick Garvey. It follows CIA analyst Noa Banks as she tries to piece together a mystery involving Russia, war and Achilles.
It is easy to see where the inspiration for the book comes from. Elements of tropes from The Da Vinci Code and other similar thrillers are ever present. There are members of the intelligence community, a ‘crackpot’ archaeologist whose theories turn out to be right and of course there is governmental bureaucracy getting in the way of solving it all.
Therein lies the rub. The Heir of Achilles doesn’t bring anything new to the table. It feels like it goes through the motions, hitting the beats it needs to hit. It's an easy read, as most thrillers tend to be, and the writing is that simple style that works for the genre. The plot sort of plods along and lets the mystery unravel on its own.
At first glance, the stakes seem high. Russia is poised to dominate the world and has the power to do so, but as the plot moves forward, the stakes don't feel high. The characters are far removed from the action, and anytime it gets close to some heart-pounding suspense the rug gets pulled out. The book stays firmly in the centre of the seat, no edges allowed.
It's clear that a lot of research has gone into The Heir of Achilles and it does a good job of building an intriguing fictional premise into real life events. All it really needs is more action and less talking about action.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
It is easy to see where the inspiration for the book comes from. Elements of tropes from The Da Vinci Code and other similar thrillers are ever present. There are members of the intelligence community, a ‘crackpot’ archaeologist whose theories turn out to be right and of course there is governmental bureaucracy getting in the way of solving it all.
Therein lies the rub. The Heir of Achilles doesn’t bring anything new to the table. It feels like it goes through the motions, hitting the beats it needs to hit. It's an easy read, as most thrillers tend to be, and the writing is that simple style that works for the genre. The plot sort of plods along and lets the mystery unravel on its own.
At first glance, the stakes seem high. Russia is poised to dominate the world and has the power to do so, but as the plot moves forward, the stakes don't feel high. The characters are far removed from the action, and anytime it gets close to some heart-pounding suspense the rug gets pulled out. The book stays firmly in the centre of the seat, no edges allowed.
It's clear that a lot of research has gone into The Heir of Achilles and it does a good job of building an intriguing fictional premise into real life events. All it really needs is more action and less talking about action.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 26, 2024
Dan Brown meets Indiana Jones meets Marvel in this propulsive debut by Patrick Garvey. Set against the backdrop of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, THE HEIR OF ACHILLES is the kind of book that immediately has you thinking about the TV adaptation. When Russian warships attacked Ukraine’s Snake Island, a place believed to be the resting place for the souls of Ancient Greek heroes, the invading army uncovered more than they bargained for.
I loved every moment of this wild ride across the reaches of a long dead empire. Tightly plotted and brimming with fascinating history, it effortlessly combines so many of the things I love.
"Ancient history and mythology meet contemporary geopolitics in this action-packed thriller that will hold readers captive from the first line to the last. A clever globe-trotting adventure with engaging characters and a blistering plot that sets the past and the present on a collision course. The stakes do not get higher and reading doesn't get more fun than this!"
I loved every moment of this wild ride across the reaches of a long dead empire. Tightly plotted and brimming with fascinating history, it effortlessly combines so many of the things I love.
"Ancient history and mythology meet contemporary geopolitics in this action-packed thriller that will hold readers captive from the first line to the last. A clever globe-trotting adventure with engaging characters and a blistering plot that sets the past and the present on a collision course. The stakes do not get higher and reading doesn't get more fun than this!"
August 13, 2024
This was a fascinating story. I loved how the author brought in ancient artifacts to affect current conditions. The characters were consistently trying to figure out what was going on and trying to alert those running the government. That process was easily subverted or postponed by multiple sources.
One of the main characters was a CIA anaylst (Noa) and she is not typically in the field. A friend of her uncle's (that she knew as a child) helped with all the research on the artifacts. Add in an old lover and there are the main good guys. They have to fight the Russians (for more reasons than I want to share in this review).
I liked Noa's spunk and ability to analysize data from a different perspective. THe story provided a lot of history on the ancients and kept my interest.
I hope this author is working on another story.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
One of the main characters was a CIA anaylst (Noa) and she is not typically in the field. A friend of her uncle's (that she knew as a child) helped with all the research on the artifacts. Add in an old lover and there are the main good guys. They have to fight the Russians (for more reasons than I want to share in this review).
I liked Noa's spunk and ability to analysize data from a different perspective. THe story provided a lot of history on the ancients and kept my interest.
I hope this author is working on another story.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 17, 2024
Thanks to BookSiren for an ARC.
This novel is a masterpiece! The author does a great job of tying together history, mystery, and action/adventure with this novel. I think the author did a terrific job in blending ancient history with modern headlines in a truly believable fashion. The characters are well-developed and relatable. If you are a fan of history, this is a great book for you. While it may be a fictional work, one could imagine this situation playing out before our eyes today. I loved the way the author intertwined the storylines and different characters throughout this book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This novel is a masterpiece! The author does a great job of tying together history, mystery, and action/adventure with this novel. I think the author did a terrific job in blending ancient history with modern headlines in a truly believable fashion. The characters are well-developed and relatable. If you are a fan of history, this is a great book for you. While it may be a fictional work, one could imagine this situation playing out before our eyes today. I loved the way the author intertwined the storylines and different characters throughout this book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 19, 2024
I love archeological thrillers and this book didn’t disappoint! The story has a group of people, Noa, Matias and Ian, aided by the CIA searching for the lost armour of Achilles which is rumoured to give the wearer special powers. One set of this armour has already been found and is being used by the Russian’s, but was there a second set and can it be found before the Russian’s find it? Fast paced and filled with lots of accurate historical information. I’m hoping that this will be a series. Thank you to NetGalley for letting me read this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
October 1, 2024
The Heir of Achilles is everything I look for in a novel: history, mythology, and thrills. The author clearly has a deep passion for ancient history, as evidenced by the research involved in creating such an exhilarating story. It's one thing to do research and another to put together a fast-paced thriller with compelling characters people can relate to, and the author has done just that. The 'what ifs' in analyzing our past fascinate me, and I recommend this novel to anyone who wants to learn and be entertained along the way!
October 28, 2024
I was intrigued by the premise and the book started off strong. I liked how (fictionalized) historical accounts were woven throughout the story. Descriptions of the action and the armor were well done. I didn't think the 'romance' added anything to the story. Also, everything came so easily as far as tracking things down. Where the climax should have been heart-pounding, it felt flat.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 13, 2024
This story is an interesting blend of history and current events. It's a very interesting part of history and if you read the author's notes at the end you see he did some research to support his story. It was well written and easy to read but requires some heavy suspension of reality.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 5, 2024
Quite an interesting novel. Combining current events with a touch of fantasy is absolutely amazing. The characters are captivating, The storyline flowed well, and and the background was well developed.
December 6, 2024
I enjoyed this book so much! The level of both research and imagination that went into crafting the story is impressive. I was captivated the entire time. If you like Dan Brown you will love Patrick Garvey!
January 9, 2025
An incredible novel that bears similarities to those by Dan Brown, I couldn’t put this book down. It’s hard to believe this is Patrick’s first book, I really hope he writes more as his talent is obvious.
Loved the homage to Louisville and mentions of beta readers that I know personally.
Loved the homage to Louisville and mentions of beta readers that I know personally.
June 27, 2025
If you like historical fiction novels- you’ll love this. The author expertly weaves together history, mystery and current events to make a page turning novel. Will definitely pass this one along to my fellow history nerds.
February 7, 2025
I got this for my wife & she loves it!
October 31, 2024
This thriller reminded me of the authors who turned me into a reader (Michael Crichton, Dan Brown, Dean Koontz) and was so much fun to read. It's a masterful blend of mythology, history, and contemporary politics that kept me turning the pages late into the night! An utterly unique, genre-blending blast and an impressive debut from Patrick Garvey of the the Ancient Heroes podcast.
October 13, 2024
I really enjoyed this historical thriller element to this book, it uses the Greek mythology element perfectly. I enjoyed the way Patrick Garvey wrote this and enjoyed the way the concept worked overall and that the characters were everything that I wanted. It had that detective element that I was looking for and glad it worked overall. It had that action adventure element that I was expecting and can’t wait for more.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews