Hellenic Traders books in order

Hellenic Traders is a six-book historical fiction series by Harry Turtledove set in the ancient Greek world, following merchant traders across the Mediterranean.
Series · Historical Fiction · Ancient History · Adventure

Reading order

# Title Published Author Buy on Amazon
1 Over the Wine-Dark Sea 2001 Harry Turtledove Buy
2 The Big Four 2001 Harry Turtledove N/A
3 The Gryphon’s Skull 2002 Harry Turtledove Buy
4 The Sacred Land 2003 Harry Turtledove Buy
5 Owls to Athens 2004 Harry Turtledove Buy
6 Salamis 2020 Harry Turtledove Buy

The Hellenic Traders series shows a different side of Harry Turtledove. Instead of alternate history or fantasy, these books are straightforward historical fiction set in the ancient Greek world. The novels follow merchants navigating the Mediterranean, dealing with pirates, politics, and the realities of trade in the classical era.

Starting with Over the Wine-Dark Sea (2001) and running through Salamis (2020), the series draws on Turtledove’s academic training as a historian. The books are lighter and more adventure-focused than his military alternate history novels.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many books are in the Hellenic Traders series?

There are six books in the Hellenic Traders series, published between 2001 and 2020.

What is the first book in the Hellenic Traders series?

The first book in the Hellenic Traders series is Over the Wine-Dark Sea, published in 2001.

Are the Hellenic Traders books based on real history?

Yes, the books are set in the ancient Greek world and draw on real historical events and geography. Turtledove uses his academic knowledge of ancient history to create an authentic picture of Mediterranean trade and politics during the classical period.

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