4.25 In each volume Turtledove finds newe and funny ways of showcasing the Hellenic world to the reader and making them anxious to learn more. There is some actual plot development and character growth here and some unexpected turns, but the Hellenic Traders series is probably never going to win an award for thrilling excitment or dashing heroism. But that's okay, it shows an interesting picture of life as it might have been instead of the author's usual "what if?" scenarios.