Tom Holt - Olympiad: An Historical Novel

Olympiad: An Historical Novel - Rewriting History One Race at a Time

Tom Holt's Olympiad takes us back to the dawn of the Olympic Games, to 776 BC, a time when the world was a very different place. The story begins with a simple footrace between two piles of stones - the very first Olympic Games.
But Olympiad is more than just a retelling of ancient history. It's a thrilling adventure story, a hilarious romp through the absurdities of ancient Greece, and a sharp commentary on the nature of fame, glory, and the very human desire to be remembered. Holt's masterful storytelling weaves a tapestry of mythology, history, and humor, where the lines between fact and fiction become wonderfully blurred.
We meet Coroebus, the winner of that inaugural Olympic race, and follow his journey from humble farmer to legendary athlete. He is a man of his time, driven by ambition and desire for recognition, but also burdened by the weight of his newfound fame. Olympiad explores the impact of these ancient games on Coroebus, on the lives of those around him, and on the future of the world, revealing the story behind the single name that defines the Western calendar. Olympiad is a witty, fast-paced, and thought-provoking read, proving once again that Tom Holt is a master of historical fiction. He blends a light touch with serious historical reflection, ensuring that the past is as relevant and engaging as the present.