Conn Iggulden is one of the most popular historical fiction authors writing today, known for his epic series about Julius Caesar, Genghis Khan, and the Wars of the Roses. With over 40 books published and millions of copies sold worldwide, Iggulden brings ancient Rome, medieval England, and the Mongol Empire to vivid life through meticulous research and gripping storytelling.
British author Conn Iggulden has mastered the art of writing large-scale historical epics that combine military action, political intrigue, and compelling characters. His Emperor series revolutionized how readers see Julius Caesar, while his Conqueror series introduced many Western readers to the extraordinary story of Genghis Khan and the Mongol conquests. Whether you’re interested in Roman legions, medieval battles, or empire-building across the steppes of Asia, Iggulden’s books offer immersive journeys into the most fascinating eras of history.
Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. We earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.About Conn Iggulden
Early Life and Background
Conn Iggulden was born in 1971 in London, England. He attended St. Martin’s School and later studied English at the University of London. After graduating, he worked as an English teacher for several years before devoting himself full-time to writing. This teaching background influences his accessible writing style, making complex historical periods easy to understand without sacrificing depth or accuracy.
Iggulden is British, though his Irish surname sometimes leads readers to wonder about his nationality. He grew up fascinated by military history, ancient Rome, and the great empire builders of the past. This childhood interest would eventually shape his entire writing career.
Writing Career
Iggulden’s breakthrough came with The Gates of Rome (2003), the first book in his Emperor series, which tells the story of Julius Caesar. The book became an instant bestseller in the UK and launched one of the most successful historical fiction franchises of the 2000s. The Emperor series ran to five books, establishing Iggulden as a major voice in historical fiction.
He followed this success with the Conqueror series (2007-2011), a five-book series about Genghis Khan and the Mongol Empire. This series introduced many Western readers to Mongol history and showed Iggulden’s range beyond Roman settings.
Between major series, Iggulden co-authored The Dangerous Book for Boys (2006) with his brother Hal Iggulden. This nostalgic guide to childhood adventures became a massive international bestseller, selling millions of copies and spawning several sequels. While not historical fiction, it showcased Iggulden’s versatility as a writer.
His Wars of the Roses series (2013-2016) tackled one of England’s bloodiest periods, the dynastic conflicts that inspired George R.R. Martin’s Game of Thrones. More recently, Iggulden has written the Athenian series about ancient Greece and the Empire of Salt trilogy set in Roman times, as well as standalone novels, including Dunstan (2021) about Anglo-Saxon England.
Writing Style and Approach
Conn Iggulden writes historical fiction that emphasizes action, military strategy, and the personal relationships between historical figures. His books feature:
- Fast-paced battle scenes with visceral combat descriptions
- Political intrigue showing how empires are built through alliances and betrayals
- Accessible history that explains complex periods clearly
- Character-driven narratives following protagonists from youth to the height of their power
- Multiple perspectives showing events through different characters’ eyes
Iggulden’s research is thorough, drawing on primary sources, archaeological evidence, and the latest historical scholarship. However, he doesn’t let research slow his narratives. He aims for historical authenticity in the big picture while taking creative liberties with dialogue, character thoughts, and minor details that aren’t documented.
Readers love Iggulden’s work for its combination of education and entertainment. His books teach you about history while keeping you up at night, turning pages. The battle scenes are among the best in the genre, rivaling Bernard Cornwell’s military fiction, while his political intrigue matches the complexity of shows like Game of Thrones.
Conn Iggulden Series in Reading Order
The Emperor Series (Julius Caesar)
Setting: Ancient Rome, 100-44 BC
Number of Books: 5 books (complete)
Main Characters: Julius Caesar and Marcus Brutus
Why It’s Essential: This is Iggulden’s breakthrough series and many readers’ favorite. It revolutionized the portrayal of Julius Caesar in historical fiction.
The Emperor series follows Julius Caesar from his teenage years through his rise to become the most powerful man in Rome. Told partly through the eyes of Caesar’s friend Marcus Brutus (who would eventually assassinate him), the series covers Caesar’s military campaigns in Gaul, his rivalry with Pompey, his affair with Cleopatra, and the political machinations that led to his murder and the end of the Roman Republic.
Reading Order:
- The Gates of Rome (2003) – Introduces young Julius Caesar and Marcus Brutus. Covers their early years, military training, and Caesar’s first commands. The book establishes their friendship and shows Caesar’s ambition taking shape.
- The Death of Kings (2004) – Caesar serves in Spain and begins his climb through Roman politics. The rivalry with Pompey emerges. Caesar’s relationship with his wife Cornelia and his growing reputation as a military commander.
- The Field of Swords (2005) – Caesar’s Gallic campaigns begin. Epic battles in Gaul (modern France) against tribal armies. Caesar crosses the Rubicon River, starting the civil war with Pompey and the Senate.
- The Gods of War (2006) – The civil war intensifies. Caesar pursues Pompey to Egypt and meets Cleopatra. Battle of Pharsalus. Caesar becomes dictator of Rome. The political situation in Rome is growing increasingly dangerous.
- The Blood of Gods (2013) – The final volume covers Caesar’s last years, his dictatorship, the conspiracy against him, and the Ides of March assassination. Continues into the aftermath with Mark Antony and Octavian.
Note: Book 5 was published seven years after Book 4, after Iggulden completed the Conqueror series.
The Conqueror Series (Genghis Khan)
Setting: Mongol steppes and Asia, 1162-1227 AD
Number of Books: 5 books (complete)
Main Character: Temujin (Genghis Khan)
Why It’s Essential: It introduced Western readers to the extraordinary story of Genghis Khan. An epic on the scale of The Lord of the Rings but rooted in real history.
The Conqueror series tells the story of Temujin, who would become Genghis Khan, founder of the largest land empire in history. Beginning with his brutal childhood, the series chronicles his unification of the Mongol tribes and his subsequent conquests across Asia. This is empire-building on an unprecedented scale.
Reading Order:
- Wolf of the Plains (2007) – Temujin’s childhood and youth. His father is murdered, and his family is cast out. Temujin survives the harsh steppe, builds alliances, and begins uniting the Mongol tribes through a combination of warfare and diplomacy.
- Lords of the Bow (2008) – Temujin takes the title Genghis Khan. The Mongols invade China, laying siege to cities with populations far exceeding their entire army. Revolutionary military tactics and the creation of the Mongol war machine.
- Bones of the Hills (2008) – Genghis Khan extends his empire westward. Campaigns in Persia and the Middle East. The death of his sons and questions of succession. The Mongol Empire at its peak.
- Empire of Silver (2010) – After Genghis Khan’s death, his sons and grandsons fight for control of the empire. Power struggles, continued conquests, and the Mongol invasion of Russia and Eastern Europe.
- Conqueror (2011) – Kublai Khan’s story. The Mongol invasion of Japan, the conquest of Song China, and Kublai Khan’s establishment of the Yuan Dynasty. The empire reaches its greatest extent but begins to fragment.
Wars of the Roses Series (Stormbird Novels)
Setting: England, 1437-1471
Number of Books: 4 books (complete)
Main Characters: Multiple perspectives across rival families
Why It’s Essential: The historical inspiration for Game of Thrones. Royal intrigue, battles for the throne, and dynastic warfare in medieval England.
The Wars of the Roses series covers the brutal conflict between the Houses of Lancaster and York for the English throne. This is Game of Thrones grounded in real history: royal marriages, murdered kings, battles where the losers are executed, and power constantly shifting between families.
Reading Order:
- Stormbird (2013) – The weak reign of Henry VI begins. Margaret of Anjou becomes queen. Richard, Duke of York, emerges as a threat to the throne. The first battles of the Civil War.
- Trinity (2014) – The conflict intensifies. The Battle of Towton, the bloodiest battle ever fought on English soil. Edward IV seizes the throne from Henry VI. The role of Warwick the Kingmaker.
- Bloodline (2015) – Edward IV’s reign is challenged. Warwick switches sides. Henry VI briefly returns to power. More battles and betrayals as the war continues across England.
- Ravenspur (2016) – The final years of the Wars of the Roses. Richard III’s brief reign. The Battle of Bosworth Field, where Richard was killed. Henry Tudor (Henry VII) ascended to the throne, bringing an end to the conflict and marking the beginning of the Tudor dynasty.
The Athenian Series (Ancient Greece)
Setting: Ancient Greece and Persia, 490-479 BC
Number of Books: 2 books (complete)
Main Characters: Xanthippus and various Athenian leaders
Why It’s Essential: Covers the Persian Wars, including the battles of Marathon and Thermopylae. Think 300 but with full historical context.
The Athenian series follows the rise of Athens and the Greek city-states’ desperate war against the Persian Empire. Outnumbered but never outfought, the Greeks defend their homeland against two massive Persian invasions.
Reading Order:
- The Gates of Athens (2020) – Athens rises to power. Xanthippus and other Athenian leaders navigate politics and war. The Battle of Marathon, where vastly outnumbered Greeks defeated the first Persian invasion.
- Protector (2021) – The second Persian invasion under Xerxes. Leonidas and the 300 Spartans at Thermopylae. Athens evacuated as the Persians burned the city. The naval battle of Salamis and the Battle of Plataea, where the Greeks finally defeated Persia on land.
The Golden Age Series (Ancient Greece – Pericles)
Setting: Ancient Greece, 5th century BC (after the Persian Wars)
Number of Books: 2 books (complete)
Main Character: Pericles, Lion of Athens
Why It’s Essential: Chronicles Athens’ golden age under Pericles and the lead-up to the Peloponnesian War with Sparta.
The Golden Age series is a separate series from the Athenian books, focusing on the legendary statesman Pericles and Athens at the height of its power. This series covers later Greek history than the Athenian series.
Reading Order:
- The Lion (2022) – Pericles emerges as Athens’ leader. Athens becomes an empire after the Persian Wars. Political intrigue at home and military conflicts abroad as Athens consolidates power.
- Empire (2023) – Continues Pericles’ story as Athens faces new challenges. The growing tension between Athens and Sparta will lead to the devastating Peloponnesian War.
Empire of Salt Trilogy (Ancient Rome)
Setting: Roman Empire under Nero, 54-68 AD
Number of Books: 3 books (complete)
Main Characters: Telamon and various figures from Nero’s court
Why It’s Essential: Nero’s reign from a new perspective. Political thriller set during one of Rome’s most notorious periods.
The Empire of Salt trilogy is set during the tumultuous reign of Emperor Nero, one of the most infamous rulers in history. Unlike the Emperor series about Rome’s rise, this trilogy explores Rome at the height of its power, but with a paranoid and unpredictable emperor on the throne.
Reading Order:
- Darien (2018) – Introduces the world and characters during the early years of Nero’s reign. Political intrigue in the imperial court.
- Shiang (2019) – The reign grows more dangerous. Plots and counter-plots in Nero’s Rome.
- The Sword Saint (2020) – The final years of Nero’s reign. The great fire of Rome, Christian persecutions, and Nero’s eventual downfall.
Note: Although referred to as the “Empire of Salt” trilogy, the individual book titles are Darien, Shiang, and The Sword Saint. These books incorporate both Roman and fantasy elements, making them distinct from Iggulden’s purely historical series.
Standalone Novels by Conn Iggulden
Beyond his major series, Iggulden has written standalone historical novels:
- The Falcon of Sparta (2018) – The story of the 10,000 Greek mercenaries’ march through Persia after the Battle of Cunaxa (the Anabasis). Follows Prince Cyrus’s failed attempt to become King of Persia and the Greek army’s legendary retreat. A standalone, not part of the Athenian or Golden Age series.
- Dunstan (2021) – The story of St. Dunstan, advisor to kings in 10th-century Anglo-Saxon England. One of Iggulden’s most critically acclaimed works. Covers the making of England as a unified nation and the conflicts between Saxon kings. Also published as The Abbot’s Tale.
Tollins Series (Children’s Books)
Setting: Chorleywood, England (fantasy)
Number of Books: 2 books (complete)
Genre: Children’s fantasy/adventure
Main Character: Sparkler, a tiny winged creature called a Tollin
Why It’s Notable: A departure from Iggulden’s historical fiction. Humorous children’s stories with illustrations.
The Tollins series features tiny winged creatures called Tollins who are NOT fairies (they regard fairies as “fluttery show-offs”). These are adventure stories with humor and illustrations by Lizzy Duncan, aimed at middle-grade readers.
Reading Order:
- Tollins: Explosive Tales for Children (2009) – Three stories introducing Sparkler and the Tollin world. Includes adventures with fireworks, medicine, and hot-air balloons. Features humor that appeals to both children and adults.
- Tollins 2: Dynamite Tales (2011) – Three more Tollin adventures. Sparkler and friends face theater, radio technology, and armed invasion in Chorleywood.
Note: This is Iggulden’s only children’s fiction series. It’s completely separate from his historical fiction work.
Non-Fiction by Conn Iggulden
Iggulden has also achieved massive success with non-fiction:
- The Dangerous Book for Boys (2006, with Hal Iggulden) – International bestseller that became a cultural phenomenon. Nostalgic guide to boyhood adventures, skills, and knowledge. Sold millions of copies worldwide.
- The Pocket Dangerous Book for Boys: Things to Do (2007)
- The Pocket Dangerous Book for Boys: Things to Know (2008)
- The Dangerous Book of Heroes (2009, with David Iggulden)
Where to Start with Conn Iggulden
Best First Book
Recommendation: The Gates of Rome (Emperor Series, Book 1)
If you’re new to Conn Iggulden, start with The Gates of Rome. It’s his breakthrough novel, his most polished early work, and the beginning of his most beloved series. Julius Caesar is a character everyone knows, making the Emperor series the most accessible entry point. The book sets up a five-book journey that many readers consider the gold standard of Roman historical fiction.
If You Want…
Epic scale and empire-building: Start with Wolf of the Plains (Conqueror Series). The Mongol Empire’s rise is one of history’s greatest stories, and Iggulden tells it magnificently.
Medieval England and royal intrigue: Start with Stormbird (Wars of the Roses Series). If you loved Game of Thrones, you’ll appreciate seeing the real history that inspired it.
Ancient Greece and legendary battles: Start with The Lion (Athenian Series). Marathon, Thermopylae, and Salamis in one epic series.
Standalone experience: Read Dunstan. It’s his most recent standalone, critically acclaimed, and doesn’t require series commitment.
Fast-paced action: Any of his first books works. Iggulden’s writing is consistently action-oriented.
How Many Books Has Conn Iggulden Written?
Conn Iggulden has published over 40 books, including:
- 24 historical fiction novels across various series
- 2 standalone historical novels
- 5 non-fiction books (The Dangerous Book for Boys series)
- Several co-authored works
His most prolific output came during the 2000s and 2010s, when he published the Emperor and Conqueror series back-to-back. He continues to write actively, with new releases every 1-2 years.
What Is Conn Iggulden’s Next Book?
He has not announced his next book publicly, though he typically publishes every 1-2 years. Follow his official website or social media for announcements about upcoming releases.
Iggulden has indicated interest in returning to Roman history and has mentioned potential projects in other historical periods, but no official announcements have been made about his next book’s subject or release date.
Reading Order: What Order Should I Read Conn Iggulden?
By Series (Recommended):
The best approach is to read each series in the order it was published. Iggulden’s series are self-contained, so you can read them in any order:
- Emperor Series (5 books) – Start here for most readers
- Conqueror Series (5 books) – Read after Emperor or on its own
- Wars of the Roses (4 books) – Medieval England
- Athenian Series (4 books) – Ancient Greece
- Empire of Salt Trilogy (3 books) – Rome under Nero
- Standalones (Dunstan, Toll) – Anytime
By Publication Date:
If you want to read in the order Iggulden published them (showing his evolution as a writer):
- Emperor Series (2003-2006)
- Book 1-4 Conqueror Series (2007-2010)
- Conqueror Book 5 (2011)
- Emperor Book 5 (2013)
- Wars of the Roses (2013-2016)
- Empire of Salt (2018-2020)
- Athenian Series (2020-2023)
- Dunstan (2021)
By Historical Timeline:
If you want to read by chronological history:
- Athenian Series (490-479 BC)
- Emperor Series (100-44 BC)
- Empire of Salt Trilogy (54-68 AD)
- Dunstan (900s AD)
- Conqueror Series (1162-1227 AD)
- Wars of the Roses (1437-1485 AD)
Most readers start with either the Emperor Series or Conqueror Series, as these are his most acclaimed and accessible works.
Awards and Recognition
Conn Iggulden’s achievements include:
- Multiple UK bestseller list appearances
- International bestselling author with millions of copies sold
- The Dangerous Book for Boys won multiple awards and was adapted as a TV series by Amazon Prime
- The Emperor Series was a Richard & Judy Book Club pick in the UK
- Regular appearances on the UK bestseller lists with each new release
- Translated into over 30 languages worldwide
While Iggulden hasn’t won major literary prizes, such as the Booker or Walter Scott Prize (which tend to favor more literary historical fiction), his commercial success and reader devotion are unmatched in the military historical fiction genre.
Conn Iggulden’s Historical Accuracy
Iggulden is known for solid historical research that serves the story rather than overwhelming it. His approach:
What’s Accurate:
- Major historical events, battles, and political developments
- Military tactics and warfare of each period
- Cultural and social contexts of each era
- Geographic details and historical settings
- Overall trajectory of historical figures’ lives
Where He Takes Liberties:
- Dialogue and character thoughts (unknowable from history)
- Minor events and personal interactions between characters
- Combining historical figures’ actions into composite characters sometimes
- Exact details of battles where records are unclear
- Timeline compression to maintain narrative pace
Historians generally praise Iggulden for making history accessible without major distortions. His battle scenes are particularly well-regarded for military accuracy. He includes the author’s notes in many books, explaining where he diverged from the historical record and why.
For readers seeking historically accurate fiction that remains engaging, Iggulden strikes an excellent balance. He’s not as literary as Hilary Mantel but far more historically grounded than typical action-adventure historical fiction.
Similar Authors You’ll Enjoy
If you enjoy Conn Iggulden’s work, you might also like:
- Bernard Cornwell – The gold standard of military historical fiction. Sharpe and Saxon Stories series. Similar battle scenes and accessible history.
- Simon Scarrow – Eagle Series about Roman legions. Co-writes with T.J. Andrews. More military-focused than Iggulden, but set in a similar period.
- Ben Kane – Hannibal trilogy and other Roman fiction. Focuses on Rome’s enemies as well as Rome itself.
- Christian Cameron – Ancient Greece and medieval warfare. The Tyrant series and Long War series.
- Anthony Riches – Empire series about Roman soldiers. Grittier and more violent than Iggulden.
- Giles Kristian – Viking historical fiction (Raven series). Similar mix of action and character development.
- Steven Pressfield – Gates of Fire (Thermopylae) and other ancient warfare novels. More literary but similar battles.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Conn Iggulden’s best book?
Most readers consider The Gates of Rome (the first Emperor book) or Wolf of the Plains (the first Conqueror book) to be Iggulden’s best work. The Emperor Series overall is his most beloved and acclaimed. However, Dunstan (2021) received exceptional critical praise and may have his most mature work.
“Best” depends on your interests: ancient Rome (Emperor), the Mongol Empire (Conqueror), medieval England (Wars of the Roses), or ancient Greece (Athenian).
In what order should I read Conn Iggulden?
Start with any series in publication order. Each series is self-contained:
- Emperor Series (Gates of Rome first)
- Conqueror Series (Wolf of the Plains first)
- Wars of the Roses (Stormbird first)
- Athenian Series (The Lion first)
Most readers begin with “Emperor” or “Conqueror.” Both are excellent entry points.
What is the order of Conn Iggulden’s books?
Emperor Series (in order):
- The Gates of Rome
- The Death of Kings
- The Field of Swords
- The Gods of War
- The Blood of Gods
Conqueror Series (in order):
- Wolf of the Plains
- Lords of the Bow
- Bones of the Hills
- Empire of Silver
- Conqueror
Wars of the Roses (in order):
- Stormbird
- Trinity
- Bloodline
- Ravenspur
See the complete series section above for all reading orders.
How many books has Conn Iggulden written?
Conn Iggulden has written over 40 books, including approximately 24 historical fiction novels, 2 standalone novels, and 5 non-fiction books (The Dangerous Book for Boys series and related titles).
What nationality is Conn Iggulden?
Conn Iggulden is British. He was born in London, England, in 1971. Despite his Irish surname, he is English and has lived in Britain his entire life. His books are particularly popular in the UK, where he is consistently on bestseller lists.
What are the best Conn Iggulden books?
Top 5 most popular:
- The Gates of Rome (Emperor #1)
- Wolf of the Plains (Conqueror #1)
- Dunstan (standalone)
- Stormbird (Wars of the Roses #1)
- The Lion (Athenian #1)
All first books in a series are strong starting points. Dunstan is his most critically acclaimed recent work.
What is Conn Iggulden’s next book?
He has not officially announced his next book, though he typically publishes every 1-2 years. Check his official website or publisher announcements for updates on upcoming releases.
How many books are in the Emperor series by Conn Iggulden?
The Emperor Series comprises five books: The Gates of Rome, The Death of Kings, The Field of Swords, The Gods of War, and The Blood of Gods. The series is complete.
How many books are in the Conn Iggulden Conqueror series?
The Conqueror Series consists of 5 books: Wolf of the Plains, Lords of the Bow, Bones of the Hills, Empire of Silver, and Conqueror. The series is complete.
How many books are in the Athenian series?
The Athenian Series comprises two books: Gates of Athens and Protector.
Are Conn Iggulden’s books historically accurate?
Iggulden’s books are historically accurate in the broadest sense, but they take creative liberties with dialogue, character thoughts, and minor details. Major events, battles, and the actions of historical figures closely follow the historical record. He includes the author’s notes, explaining where he diverged from historical accounts and why. His work effectively balances entertainment with education.
Can I read Conn Iggulden’s series out of order?
Within a series: No, read in publication order. Each series develops character and plot across multiple books.
Between series: Yes. Each series is completely self-contained. You can read the Emperor Series without reading Conqueror, or vice versa.
Conclusion
Conn Iggulden stands among the best historical fiction authors writing today, bringing ancient empires and medieval conflicts to vivid life. With over 40 books spanning Roman legions, Mongol conquests, Greek battles, and English civil wars, his work offers something for every history enthusiast.
His Emperor Series revolutionized the portrayal of Julius Caesar in historical fiction, while his Conqueror Series introduced Western readers to the epic story of Genghis Khan. Whether you start with ancient Rome, the Mongol steppes, medieval England, or ancient Greece, Iggulden’s fast-paced storytelling, memorable characters, and accessible history will keep you reading deep into the night.
For readers new to Iggulden, The Gates of Rome remains the perfect starting point. It’s the beginning of his most beloved series, showcasing everything that makes his work special: brilliant military strategy, compelling characters, and history that comes alive on the page.
Ready to start your Conn Iggulden reading journey? Pick up The Gates of Rome or Wolf of the Plains and discover why millions of readers around the world have made him one of the bestselling historical fiction authors of the 21st century.