The Oracle of Delphi: Prelude

Priests and Magi #0.5

by Elyse DeBarre

This is the poetically written first chapter of a historical novel based on an account by Herodotus concerning the last king of Lydia's interaction with the Oracle (high priestess) of Apollo at Delphi. The novel is set against the early stages of the conflict between the Greeks and Persians under Cyrus the Great in the sixth century BC. This chapter is presented as a mystery and ends with a twist. I shall be following it with additional chapters.

9 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 1, 2024

About the author

I'm a classical archaeologist (Roman focus) and biological science degree holder studying Medicine. Since the age of two, I've travelled to 65 countries on every continent and lived in 17 countries on four countries.

My penname is Elyse DeBarre; my scholarly nonfiction is published under "Elizabeth Legge".

MY PUBLICATION LINKS:

You can find my Books2Read fiction author's page at:
books2read.com/RomaAquila_Books

And my scholarly nonfiction at:
books2read.com/RomaAquila_Scholar

My Allauthor webpage: https://allauthor.com/page/RomaAquila/2/

You may follow my YouTube channel on ancient history, archaeology, world travel and my publications at:
https://www.youtube.com/@elyssa-vagab...

My Facebook group for my writing is:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/49789...

My Facebook group for fellow writers on ancient historical fiction and nonfiction is:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/99948...

My Facebook group on Roman and Herodian archaeology is:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/24938...

My Twitter account: https://x.com/RomaLAquila

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/romaaquilae...

Pinterest:
https://it.pinterest.com/tcherina991072

MY SCHOLARLY NONFICTION (ancient Romen archaeology/ancient history/history of medicine) published as "ELIZABETH LEGGE":
Here is my scholarly nonfiction, published as Elizabeth Legge.

Women Physicians in Ancient Rome

Roman Military Medicine from an Archaeological and Historical Perspective

The Structure and Phases of the Castra Praetoria in Rome

The Malhata Fortress on the Roman-Judaean Negev Frontier: Associated with a Roman Road, the Frankincense Trail, and a Princely Fugitive

Herodian Archaeology: Agrippa I of Roman Judaea - - Josephus and the Tel Malhata/Tel El-Milh Site

Herodian Agrippa I: Malatha in Josephus and the Tel Malhata/Tel El-Milh Site

Agrippa I: A Comprehensive Archaeological Study of the Last King of Roman Judaea and a True Crime Inquiry

Gaius Caligula's Reign, Personality and Friendship with M. Julius Agrippa I

Agrippa I's Last Days

Examples for Comparison from Herod I's Archaeological Record

Historical Background for Herodian Agrippa I

Agrippa I

Herodian Archaeology: Agrippa I of Roman Judaea - - Introduction

Herodian Agrippa I Archaeology: Discussion, Conclusion and Reference List

Reviews

[Evan Kline · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Tale of Myth and Wisdom

"The Oracle of Delphi" by Elyse Debarre takes you, the reader on an enchanting journey into the heart of ancient Greece. Masterfully written, her story will captivate and inspire you. From the very first page, Elyse's evocative prose transports you to a world where the myth and the historical intertwine seamlessly.


The protagonist,Thalia, is a fascinating character whose quest for wisdom and truth is  compelling and deeply moving. Debarre's meticulous research shines through in the vivid descriptions of the ancient world, making it come alive in a way that few historical novels achieve. The Oracle of Delphi itself is portrayed with a reverence and mystique that honors its legendary status.


What truly sets this book apart is Debarre's ability to weave profound philosophical insights into an engaging narrative. The themes of fate, destiny, and the search for meaning are explored with nuance and depth, leaving readers with much to ponder long after the final page is turned.


"The Oracle of Delphi" is a must-read for anyone interested in ancient history, myth, and the timeless human quest for knowledge. Elyse Debarre has created a literary gem that is both enlightening and thoroughly enjoyable. Highly recommended! You will not be disappointed!

[Farshad · Rating 5 out of 5]

Much of The Oracle of Delphi: That Which is Hidden takes place in ancient Persia and that really interested me since I'm from Iran. The incorporation of the historical background into this spy mystery was good, and I liked the positive presentation of Kourosh . The mystery in the novel and the twists also kept my attention. I had a few theories but was still surprised to find out who the real cabal mastermind was. As a medical doctor, I was also interested in the science involving medicine. Overall, an interesting read!