MacGillivray expertly uses the life of Arthur Evans - a prominent figure in early archaeology - to bring to life the wider context of the development of the profession of archaeology.

Hard to put down, this compelling book would be enjoyable to anyone with even a passing interest in archaeology, Knossos and/or the life of Evans. Taking the reader through both the ancient and (relatively) modern history of Crete, it is very accessible to the layperson and not at all dry or overly academic.

MacGillivray doesn't shy away from washing off the sugar coating of others who have looked at Evans' life, but without ever crossing over into being disrespectful. In fact the book comes across as an unbiased and informed account that allows the reader to make up their own minds on a man who both advanced and held back the profession of archaeology through the force of his personality.

I would thoroughly recommend this to students of archaeology and ancient history, but also readers with a passing interest in the development of archaeology or the modern history and politics of Crete and its neighbours.