Stealing Athena

Readers follow the stories of two women, Mary, the Countess of Elgin, and Aspasia, courtesan of Pericles, through the creation and, years later, the removal of what are called the Elgin marbles to Great Britain. Too much like a romance novel so not the historical fiction I enjoy.

Great historical piece. Highly recommended for historical fiction readers.

I loved this book. I wasn't familiar with the story of the Elgin Marbles and I found it fascinating. It broke my heart to know that some of those beautiful, priceless treasures ended up at the bottom of the sea on their voyage to England.

If you are familiar with the Elgin Marbles (looted by Nazi Germany during WW II and hidden away) then this tale of how they landed in England will interest you. The story is told from the perspective of two women, two different time periods. This is the second book by author Karen Essex that I have enjoyed and recommend her to those looking for a different flavour of historical fiction. You may end up having a different opinion of the great art once you learn more about Lord Elgin. Definitely worth reading as it is a story of adventure, romance and full of historical knowledge.