Olympia: The Birth of the Games

by John A Martino, Alexis Lyras (Contributor)

The Untold Story of the Founding of the Olympic Games… In ancient Greece and across the Mediterranean, kingdoms strive for dominance. The great powers of Carthage and Egypt look on with avarice as the might of the Greeks is spent warring between themselves, oblivious to external dangers. Year in and year out, the people suffer at the hands of their rulers and the famine and pestilence that comes with conflict. The great rulers of the day are themselves helpless to end this cycle of destruction. While life on the battlefield is cheap, the slave trade flourishes through the years of interminable battle and death. Kings and queens pray to the gods and seek wisdom from the oracles, but the gods, it seems, prefer combat to diplomacy. At Olympia, the peace of the temple precinct is an island of calm in a sea of turmoil. Here on this sacred soil grows the seed of a better future, yet even here there lurks danger and deceit as the forces of destruction reach into the sanctuary of the gods. For this seed to thrive, it will take more than prayers and goodwill. Yet often hope springs from the most unlikely sources. There is one amongst the Greeks who sees light where others only perceive darkness. One who sees that there is another way to settle conflict – with honor and courage. One who will set aflame a torch that will burn for thousands of years, down through the ages. In an epoch of chaos and strife, a new force for peace is born. The Birth of the Games is the brainchild of two distinguished Dr. Michael O'Kane is a published academic author who has worked extensively with Australian Aboriginal communities. Michael lives with his partner Erin, their two children Felix and Patrick and their curly retriever Molly. Dr. John A. Martino is a disabled veteran, honorably discharged from the Australian Defense Force. He wrote his PhD in Classical History through Monash University and the University of Melbourne on martial violence in the Old World and the New. The book is enriched with a foreword by Professor Alexis Lyras, founder and president of the ‘Olympism For Humanity Alliance’.

228 pages, Paperback

Published September 27, 2022

Reviews

[Mary Beth Pritzl · Rating 3 out of 5]

Historical fiction by Histria Books

[Joseph · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a reader of historical fiction, I approached John A. Martino's "Olympia: The Birth of the Games" with interest. The work presents itself as a well-constructed and easily accessible narrative. Martino's prose is clear, which contributes to a smooth reading experience.

The characters are generally likable and well-developed, making it easy to connect with the plot. The plot moves steadily forward, maintaining a level of suspense that invites you to continue reading to learn the outcome.

However, as in any work of historical fiction, it is pertinent to consider creative licenses. The inclusion of non-Greek athletes in the context of the early Olympic Games seems to depart from the limited historical and archaeological evidence available on that period. While this may be due to narrative decisions, it is a point to keep in mind for the reader interested in historical accuracy.

Two minor drawbacks were observed towards the end of the book. At one point, the departure from the scene of three characters is described, who reappear later in the narrative without a clear explanation. Additionally, an injury suffered by the main character is not contextualized in the plot, leaving its origin unexplained in the read version. These details, although punctual, are noticeable.

Despite the above observations, it is important to note that these aspects do not significantly detract from the overall value of the story. Martino's narrative succeeds in creating an entertaining experience that has potential. The way the plot unfolds and the construction of the characters makes me think that the work could be successfully adapted as an adventure film.

In summary, "Olympia: The Birth of the Games" offers an enjoyable and involving read, with a plot that holds interest. While there are some historical licenses and minor continuity errors, the work holds up as an entertaining historical fiction proposal.

[Hans]

This book is a real treat. It tells the story of how the games were started to hopefully bring peace
to the warring states of Greece and other Mediterranean countries.
It is an epic tale of states attempting to gain dominance and one man's attempts to overcome the constant battles, by pitting all states best at various tasks to come up with a peaceful result.
The story has treachery, romance, friendship and comradeship in spades .
A highly recommended read .

[John · Rating 5 out of 5]

An extraordinary novel. It captures what the ancient world must have been actually like when the Olympics were first born. It’s a true epic in every way and the research behind it must have been massive, but it’s still a joy to read. Very highly recommended!

[Kirsten McLennan · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic read. Engaging, action packed and exceptionally well written, Olympia transports you to ancient Greece and the birth of the Olympics. A true epic and very enjoyable to read. Highly recommend!