Spoils of Olympus 2

World on Fire

Fiction - Historical - Event/Era
334 Pages
Reviewed on 12/19/2016
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    Book Review

Reviewed by Rabia Tanveer for Readers' Favorite

World on Fire: Spoils of Olympus, Volume 2 by Christian Kachel is the story of a young soldier as he grows up in the military and understands that life in Macedon. The year is 318 BC, five years after the death of Alexander the Great. Andrikos, our valiant hero, receives orders to move and change their situation. The new plan has the potential to change history and open new doors. However, for Andrikos, it is nothing but another way for him to grow up far more quickly that he should. He and Vettias are ready to protect Alexander’s heirs while all the time they are working for the men who want to destroy the remaining Argead Dynasty. This is a dangerous task that no sane man will want to take on. But Andrikos is not a normal man; he was changed by the war and with the death of a great leader. Now he and his mentor must do what they can to protect the future of their country and their own, but how can they? Their adversary is far more powerful. Can two men save what is left of the hopes and dreams of many?

What can I say? I love a complex tale and a complex main character. Just when I thought I had figured Andrikos out, there was something new revealed about his very fascinating personality. I loved his emotion and how he changed from a confused young man to a furious soldier. I loved the dynamics of his relationship with Vettias and Mara. I cannot wait for the next novel in the series. But in the meantime, I will read the first novel! That being said, this is a brilliantly written novel that can be taken as a great and grand epic tale of heroes.

Mamta Madhavan

Spoils of Olympus II: World on Fire by Christian Kachel continues from where the first volume, By the Sword, leaves off. Readers get to see Andrikos and Vettios, the two instruments of vengeance, beginning their journey to Pella, the heart of Macedon to prove they are going to take their revenge that could change the course of history. Andrikos and his mentor go on this dangerous and clandestine mission to save the surviving heirs of Alexander, and also fulfill the promise made to Mara, Andrikos’ love. The plot spans a period of about six years and also shows the coming of age of Andrikos through his battles, alliances, and many other experiences and incidents.

The story is entertaining and the compelling plot will capture the attention of readers till the very end. The descriptions are detailed and vivid, bringing alive the characters and scenes for readers. The historical references, the forgotten era of the Greek civilization, the ancient world, intrigue, danger, espionage, and love have all been woven together with expertise and it showcases the excellent writing skills and story-telling expertise of Christian Kachel. The character of Andrikos has been well developed and readers see his growth as a person as the story progresses. Along with him, the rest of the characters are strong and well portrayed; they are memorable and palpable to readers. The book is fast paced and the fluidity in expression and writing gives a good movement to the story. For all those readers who love history, excitement, adventure, battles, and intrigue, this book is a must-read.

Gisela Dixon

World on Fire (Spoils of Olympus Volume 2) by Christian Kachel is the second book in the series Spoils of Olympus and continues the saga of the reign of Alexander the Great and his legacy. World on Fire begins with a brief summary of the events of Book 1, set in ancient Greece, and continues with the events set in motion after the death of Alexander. Andrikos, the protagonist in the first book, continues to play an integral part in the shaping of Greek history as he grows into a confident man, capable of shaping his own as well as the ancient empire’s history. The man who has recruited Andrikos, Vettias, also plays an important role in this saga as he and Andrikos unite to ensure the future prosperity of Greece and the protection of Alexander’s heirs. There is plenty of love, drama, intrigue, and action in this historical novel that brings the events of ancient Greece to life.

World on Fire by Christian Kachel is a well-written sequel and the writing style is engaging and rich with historical facts. I loved that Christian has provided a summary as well as a cast of characters for people who may not have read the first book. I enjoyed reading about the lives of people over 2000 years ago and the vivid descriptions of the characters and their lives almost made me believe that all of this could have happened exactly in this way. This is a great historical fiction novel that anyone would enjoy, especially people interested in the history of ancient cultures of the past.