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Gaia #2
Olympus Bound
Survival hangs on a knife-edge. Commander Xanthe Waters, a visionary leader haunted by her past, steers the groundbreaking Moon base, Olympus, through its darkest hour. As they stand six months into their lunar odyssey, catastrophe strikes, severing their lifeline to an Earth besieged by ecoterrorism, environmental collapse, and a spiraling political maelstrom. Amid the unforgiving lunar landscape, Olympus teeters on the precipice of transformation. A breakthrough in helium-3 technology redefines its destiny, pivoting from a beacon of human achievement to a critical node in asteroid mining, a sanctuary for climate refugees, and a volatile chess piece in the interstellar power game. Here, in the vacuum of space, the crew must confront not just external dangers but the internal shadows of ambition, jealousy, and fractured loyalties. At the heart of this maelstrom stands Xanthe Waters, whose leadership is tested like never before. Torn between duty and a suppressed longing for fellow designer Troy Bruin, she grapples with the weight of decisions where every choice reverberates through the void. Alongside her, a diverse crew of characters must confront their own personal demons while treading the thin line between survival and self-destruction.Olympus Bound is a thrilling sci-fi epic that expertly weaves together themes of space exploration, political intrigue, ecological disasters, and the human drama of survival in an alien environment. For fans of speculative fiction giants like Kim Stanley Robinson, Neal Stephenson, and Margaret Atwood, this novel is a compelling journey through the trials of establishing humanity's first foothold beyond Earth. Join Xanthe and her crew on this harrowing adventure as they navigate not only the perils of space but the intricate labyrinth of human dynamics, where the future of humanity is forged amidst the stars.
- GenresScience FictionDystopia
500 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 1, 2024
15 people are currently reading
50 people want to read
About the author
Zoë Routh
13 books74 followersZoë Routh is a leadership futurist, podcaster, and multiple award-winning author. She works with leaders and teams to to explore what's coming and what it means for leadership of the future.
She has worked with individuals and teams internationally and in Australia since 1987. From wild Canadian rivers to the Australian Outback, and the Boardroom jungles, Zoë is an adventurist! She facilitates strategy and culture for the future with audacious teams.
Zoë's fourth leadership book, People Stuff - Beyond Personality Problems: An advanced handbook for leadership, won the Book of the Year at the Australian Business Book Awards in 2020. Her fifth book is a leadership futurist science fiction dystopian novel, The Olympus Project.
Zoë is the producer of the Zoë Routh Leadership Podcast, dedicated to asking “What if…?” and sharing big ideas on the Future of Leadership.
Zoë is an outdoor adventurist and enjoys telemark skiing, has run 6 marathons, is a one-time belly-dancer, has survived cancer, and loves hiking in the high country. She is married to a gorgeous Aussie and is a self-confessed dark chocolate addict.
https://www.zoerouth.com
https://www.facebook.com/zoe.routh
https://twitter.com/zoerouth
https://au.linkedin.com/in/zoerouth
https://www.instagram.com/zoerouth
https://www.youtube.com/c/ZoeRouthInn...
She has worked with individuals and teams internationally and in Australia since 1987. From wild Canadian rivers to the Australian Outback, and the Boardroom jungles, Zoë is an adventurist! She facilitates strategy and culture for the future with audacious teams.
Zoë's fourth leadership book, People Stuff - Beyond Personality Problems: An advanced handbook for leadership, won the Book of the Year at the Australian Business Book Awards in 2020. Her fifth book is a leadership futurist science fiction dystopian novel, The Olympus Project.
Zoë is the producer of the Zoë Routh Leadership Podcast, dedicated to asking “What if…?” and sharing big ideas on the Future of Leadership.
Zoë is an outdoor adventurist and enjoys telemark skiing, has run 6 marathons, is a one-time belly-dancer, has survived cancer, and loves hiking in the high country. She is married to a gorgeous Aussie and is a self-confessed dark chocolate addict.
https://www.zoerouth.com
https://www.facebook.com/zoe.routh
https://twitter.com/zoerouth
https://au.linkedin.com/in/zoerouth
https://www.instagram.com/zoerouth
https://www.youtube.com/c/ZoeRouthInn...
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
May 10, 2024
Original Review: https://reedsy.com/discovery/book/oly...
*Review originally posted on Reedsy Discovery. I received a free ARC in exchange for my honest review*
Olympus Bound, the thrilling sequel to The Olympus Project in Zoe Routh's Gaia series, improves markedly upon its predecessor and makes for a delightful, engrossing read packed with suspense, clever humor, and a lovely found family dynamic. Starring a diverse cast on an experimental lunar base; the story explores the political intrigue, ethical issues, and question of survival after Earth is ravaged by climate disasters.
The highlight of Olympus Bound is its excellent pacing and execution of suspense. Every threat in Olympus Bound feels real: Routh sharply communicates the terror; isolation, and exhaustion experienced by the cast on a vast lunar expanse. The characters respond accordingly with logical, creative problem-solving reminiscent of The Martian. Unlike Routh's previous works, Olympus Bound doesn't struggle from a slow or disjointed start, and maintains reader engagement from chapter one to ninety-three. Yes, there are ninety-three short chapters that all manage to justify their existence and work well to maintain suspense, which is no small feat.
Sprinkled in amidst geopolitical tensions and danger are moments of impeccable comedic timing, as well as genuinely platonic interactions between teammates. Routh's characterization is at its best when bouncing characters off of one another in a team setting-think The Avengers. However, her characters stand individually as well. Xanthe's grapple with leadership and exhaustion is central to maintaining emotional direction. Amongst the side characters, all are done well and maintain distinct motivations and personalities, and Jonas in particular has undergone a particularly well-done arc.
There remain some imperfections: Without delving into spoilers, certain plot and character points (particularly those lingering from The Olympus Project) were resolved far too neatly and quickly. The story is also hampered by both the central and minor romances, which serve more as awkward disruptors and frustrating distractions from the plot than engaging supplements. Save a few moments, the romances feel half-baked, reliant on the same corny prose that mainstream romance has adopted. In all fairness, though, this style is nothing new amongst popular speculative fiction.
But overall, Olympus Bound's strengths far outweigh its weaknesses, buoyed by phenomenal pacing, humor, and tension. Most importantly, it proves that Routh is a rising star among the sci-fi community, and the Gaia series has the makings of a hit in it. The Gaia series is a must-follow and a rarity among sci-fi: a simeltaneously accessible, fun, and thought-provoking read. Well done, Routh.
*Review originally posted on Reedsy Discovery. I received a free ARC in exchange for my honest review*
Olympus Bound, the thrilling sequel to The Olympus Project in Zoe Routh's Gaia series, improves markedly upon its predecessor and makes for a delightful, engrossing read packed with suspense, clever humor, and a lovely found family dynamic. Starring a diverse cast on an experimental lunar base; the story explores the political intrigue, ethical issues, and question of survival after Earth is ravaged by climate disasters.
The highlight of Olympus Bound is its excellent pacing and execution of suspense. Every threat in Olympus Bound feels real: Routh sharply communicates the terror; isolation, and exhaustion experienced by the cast on a vast lunar expanse. The characters respond accordingly with logical, creative problem-solving reminiscent of The Martian. Unlike Routh's previous works, Olympus Bound doesn't struggle from a slow or disjointed start, and maintains reader engagement from chapter one to ninety-three. Yes, there are ninety-three short chapters that all manage to justify their existence and work well to maintain suspense, which is no small feat.
Sprinkled in amidst geopolitical tensions and danger are moments of impeccable comedic timing, as well as genuinely platonic interactions between teammates. Routh's characterization is at its best when bouncing characters off of one another in a team setting-think The Avengers. However, her characters stand individually as well. Xanthe's grapple with leadership and exhaustion is central to maintaining emotional direction. Amongst the side characters, all are done well and maintain distinct motivations and personalities, and Jonas in particular has undergone a particularly well-done arc.
There remain some imperfections: Without delving into spoilers, certain plot and character points (particularly those lingering from The Olympus Project) were resolved far too neatly and quickly. The story is also hampered by both the central and minor romances, which serve more as awkward disruptors and frustrating distractions from the plot than engaging supplements. Save a few moments, the romances feel half-baked, reliant on the same corny prose that mainstream romance has adopted. In all fairness, though, this style is nothing new amongst popular speculative fiction.
But overall, Olympus Bound's strengths far outweigh its weaknesses, buoyed by phenomenal pacing, humor, and tension. Most importantly, it proves that Routh is a rising star among the sci-fi community, and the Gaia series has the makings of a hit in it. The Gaia series is a must-follow and a rarity among sci-fi: a simeltaneously accessible, fun, and thought-provoking read. Well done, Routh.
July 23, 2024
The first part of the Gaia series, ‘The Olympus Project’, dealt with the process of beginning the moon mission - it introduced the team of Earth’s best designers, pilots, and technicians, and showed how they go through the selection process, gruelling training, and set up a mock lunar base in the desert. ‘Olympus Bound’ picks up from this point, and goes straight into the thick of things - we meet the crew again when they’re already on the moon, six months into their mission.
But life on the moon is not easy, and we soon see the relentless challenges and life-threatening situations that the crew must go through. And as a series of disasters on earth, as well as unforeseen catastrophes at the base, change the direction of the Olympus mission, the characters must figure out a way to work together and survive.
This is a really fun, engrossing read that works well regardless of whether you’ve read Book 1 or not. There are unexpected twists and turns, great suspense, and incredibly written characters that you’ll find yourself rooting for. The dynamic between the crew was both complicated and yet heartwarming - my favourite part of the book, by far. Highly recommended.
But life on the moon is not easy, and we soon see the relentless challenges and life-threatening situations that the crew must go through. And as a series of disasters on earth, as well as unforeseen catastrophes at the base, change the direction of the Olympus mission, the characters must figure out a way to work together and survive.
This is a really fun, engrossing read that works well regardless of whether you’ve read Book 1 or not. There are unexpected twists and turns, great suspense, and incredibly written characters that you’ll find yourself rooting for. The dynamic between the crew was both complicated and yet heartwarming - my favourite part of the book, by far. Highly recommended.
April 9, 2024
Olympus Bound is the second book in the Gaia series by Zoë Routh. Olympus Bound is a great continuation of the Gaia series. Just as the first book The Olympus Project pulled me into its world so did Olympus Bound. I don’t know which book I liked the best as I love them both very much. I love the world that has been created for the Gaia series. I never want to see it end.
In the first book The Olympus Project the world is dying and humans are trying to find a new place to live. They chose the moon. They finally reach the moon but are struck by bad luck as they struggle to survive. Many disasters are thrown their way. Space can be cruel. Building a new world can be very dangerous indeed.
Olympus Bound is a very enthralling read that kept me glued to the pages as I made my way to the end I wanted to know how it was going to turn out in the end. I had no problem following the story as the descriptions were written so well I felt like I was a part of their world. I could see space all around me. I had no problem seeing the space suits and the crew working in space to make themselves a home on the moon.
I would love to see the Gaia series made into a TV show. I can’t wait to read more in the Gaia Series.
I highly recommend Olympus Bound to all sci-fi fans! Grab a copy of Olympus Bound today!
In the first book The Olympus Project the world is dying and humans are trying to find a new place to live. They chose the moon. They finally reach the moon but are struck by bad luck as they struggle to survive. Many disasters are thrown their way. Space can be cruel. Building a new world can be very dangerous indeed.
Olympus Bound is a very enthralling read that kept me glued to the pages as I made my way to the end I wanted to know how it was going to turn out in the end. I had no problem following the story as the descriptions were written so well I felt like I was a part of their world. I could see space all around me. I had no problem seeing the space suits and the crew working in space to make themselves a home on the moon.
I would love to see the Gaia series made into a TV show. I can’t wait to read more in the Gaia Series.
I highly recommend Olympus Bound to all sci-fi fans! Grab a copy of Olympus Bound today!
April 18, 2024
This was excellent! A really enjoyable & well written sci fi story! Great ideas, really good levels of tension & excitement. Some angst but not too bad! I really like the characters & the storyline, a really great read!
April 21, 2024
An amazing tale so well told!
I have enjoyed all of this author’s work, but in Olympus Bound, she has really hit her stride. This is a story that immerses you immediately. Wonderful writing, deep dives into intriguing characters, and action, action, action. Never a dull moment when you live on the moon! The characters grapple with life in survival mode while Earth’s chaos and politics continue to reach for and affect them. I love this book and can’t wait for the next one!
I have enjoyed all of this author’s work, but in Olympus Bound, she has really hit her stride. This is a story that immerses you immediately. Wonderful writing, deep dives into intriguing characters, and action, action, action. Never a dull moment when you live on the moon! The characters grapple with life in survival mode while Earth’s chaos and politics continue to reach for and affect them. I love this book and can’t wait for the next one!
April 3, 2024
Hold your pants, because this book has 93 chapters. The story is easy to follow, even if you haven’t read the first book. I loved that the author mixed current technology with advanced technology; it gives me a sense that it something plausible in the near future. I would love to see this book in a tv show.
March 11, 2024
I saw a review for a movie recently which was simply: ‘10/10 – no notes!’ – I think that applies here too. It was excellent.
I’d not read the first book, but that didn’t affect my enjoyment at-all. It definitely works as a self-contained story, and though a little context was perhaps missing at the start, you get enough of a picture as the story progresses.
At its core, this story is about people, their personalities, and their relationships. Being in space sucks! And seeing it through the eyes of these characters, and seeing how it affects them over time, really drives that point home. All of the characters are well defined, with distinct personalities and voices. Their banter is perfection, and although this book is very tense, there were some genuine laugh-out-loud moments sprinkled throughout, especially in the third act (Volkov and a dog – that’s all I’ll say…)
One thing that I really liked was the technology. The book does a really good job of blending real tech that exists today, with tech that’s a little more ‘Sci-fi-ee’. There is mention of Artimus, and Starship, 3D printing etc… But then there are these more advanced concepts, like robots, and intelligent AI. Combining these with things that we know to exist tethers them in reality, and I think that was a really smart move.
The book is tense, and I feared for the lives of the crew with each page. But there is also a lot of laughter, along with moments that pull on the heart strings. Even with some of the more advanced tech, everything felt firmly rooted in reality, and it truly felt like you could be reading about something that’s happening, right now, on the surface of the moon.
I loved this book, and I love this crew!
I’d not read the first book, but that didn’t affect my enjoyment at-all. It definitely works as a self-contained story, and though a little context was perhaps missing at the start, you get enough of a picture as the story progresses.
At its core, this story is about people, their personalities, and their relationships. Being in space sucks! And seeing it through the eyes of these characters, and seeing how it affects them over time, really drives that point home. All of the characters are well defined, with distinct personalities and voices. Their banter is perfection, and although this book is very tense, there were some genuine laugh-out-loud moments sprinkled throughout, especially in the third act (Volkov and a dog – that’s all I’ll say…)
One thing that I really liked was the technology. The book does a really good job of blending real tech that exists today, with tech that’s a little more ‘Sci-fi-ee’. There is mention of Artimus, and Starship, 3D printing etc… But then there are these more advanced concepts, like robots, and intelligent AI. Combining these with things that we know to exist tethers them in reality, and I think that was a really smart move.
The book is tense, and I feared for the lives of the crew with each page. But there is also a lot of laughter, along with moments that pull on the heart strings. Even with some of the more advanced tech, everything felt firmly rooted in reality, and it truly felt like you could be reading about something that’s happening, right now, on the surface of the moon.
I loved this book, and I love this crew!
July 31, 2024
‘Olympus Bound’ was a brilliant read! The sequel to Routh’s ‘The Olympus Project’, this one deals with the actual duration of the Olympus mission on the moon. It describes the crew as they finally reach the moon, and goes into the terrible ordeals they face while trying to build a colony there. I’ll say as little about the plot as possible for two reasons. First, too much happens to summarize in a few lines! And secondly, the less you know about what happens, the better the reading experience will be. There are twists and turns, unexpected events, and thrilling crises that will keep you engaged.
I will talk about the one thing that impressed me most about this novel - the human drama. Routh intricately weaves themes of family, love, and loss against the backdrop of a daring space mission. The astronauts, having left their families behind on Earth, embody the sacrifices required for space exploration. The bond among the crew is another compelling aspect of the narrative. The banter between them, the family dynamic, and the way they rely on each other in the loneliness of their surroundings was heartwarming and poignant.
‘Olympus Bound’ is an impressive feat of a book - the best I’ve read in a long time!
I will talk about the one thing that impressed me most about this novel - the human drama. Routh intricately weaves themes of family, love, and loss against the backdrop of a daring space mission. The astronauts, having left their families behind on Earth, embody the sacrifices required for space exploration. The bond among the crew is another compelling aspect of the narrative. The banter between them, the family dynamic, and the way they rely on each other in the loneliness of their surroundings was heartwarming and poignant.
‘Olympus Bound’ is an impressive feat of a book - the best I’ve read in a long time!
Read
April 18, 2024This story adds great detail and depth to her earlier story, Olympus Project. In any case it can be read independently and enjoyed that way. The story covers the establishment of Olympus Base and subsequent events. There is plenty of action and terrible problems the characters must solve.
The characters are well developed. They are all to some extent escaping a dystopian future on Earth that continues to impact them both in their pasts and in the current story.
The following paragraph contains what some might call spoilers
I could not give this a 5 star rating due to some issues that I found annoying (nerd alert). I had a very hard time suspending my disbelief over the lack of foresight on the design of the Atrium, the self described star of Olympus Base. The first class world designers never considered what a meteor shower might do to the Atrium and the rest of the Base? At the very least incredibly bad risk management! The regolith causes the cover system to jam and needs constant maintenance the design does not help perform? Again poor design.
I received an advance copy of this book and am leaving this review voluntarily.
The characters are well developed. They are all to some extent escaping a dystopian future on Earth that continues to impact them both in their pasts and in the current story.
The following paragraph contains what some might call spoilers
I could not give this a 5 star rating due to some issues that I found annoying (nerd alert). I had a very hard time suspending my disbelief over the lack of foresight on the design of the Atrium, the self described star of Olympus Base. The first class world designers never considered what a meteor shower might do to the Atrium and the rest of the Base? At the very least incredibly bad risk management! The regolith causes the cover system to jam and needs constant maintenance the design does not help perform? Again poor design.
I received an advance copy of this book and am leaving this review voluntarily.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 12, 2024
Zoe Routh is leaping from strength to strength! ‘Olympus Bound’ takes everything that was good in the first book, and makes it even better – the characters and their personal demons, the complex relationships and loyalties between them, and the dangers of space exploration are described in an absolutely enthralling way.
Unlike the first book which seemed a bit slow in the beginning, ‘Olympus Bound’ gets into the main plot from the very beginning, all guns blazing. There’s not a single dull moment throughout the five hundred pages. I could’ve done without the romances since the language there gets a bit cliched - but they also add brilliantly to the respective character arcs, so I’ve got no complaints. Incredible work by Routh yet again!
Unlike the first book which seemed a bit slow in the beginning, ‘Olympus Bound’ gets into the main plot from the very beginning, all guns blazing. There’s not a single dull moment throughout the five hundred pages. I could’ve done without the romances since the language there gets a bit cliched - but they also add brilliantly to the respective character arcs, so I’ve got no complaints. Incredible work by Routh yet again!
April 25, 2024
What a great sci fi read! This is the second book of the Gaia series, and while book one set up the story and introduced the characters, book two really got the excitement going.
I really enjoyed this book. A real page turner, this book has lots of action, amazing world building, great character development, and even a little romance.
Really hoping there will be another book in this series. It was left open ended, and a lot could happen in book three. Crossing fingers as this series is really good.
I received an advance reader copy from the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I really enjoyed this book. A real page turner, this book has lots of action, amazing world building, great character development, and even a little romance.
Really hoping there will be another book in this series. It was left open ended, and a lot could happen in book three. Crossing fingers as this series is really good.
I received an advance reader copy from the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 15, 2024
Received as a review copy from Booksirens, this is an honest review. What a fantastic, harrowing and get wrenching journey that is Olympus Bound. Humanity has made it to the moon but just like as Earth becomes a win-lose world wracked by environmental changes; space isn't any safer as Commander Xanthe and her hung ho crew discover as they begin to make their moon base Olympus into something of a home. When a disaster strikes upon the crew, the daunting realization of how fragile life really strikes home for the team as they struggle with the emotional toll giving humanity a future when it only seems our species is only capable of destruction.
The grand sequel to The Olympus Project has come... and author Zoe Routh absolute keeps elevating her ability to weave poignant, realistic stories.
Highly recommended.
The grand sequel to The Olympus Project has come... and author Zoe Routh absolute keeps elevating her ability to weave poignant, realistic stories.
Highly recommended.
April 24, 2024
Lucky to receive this book as an arc and I can easily say that this was an amazing continuance of the first book! The characters continue to grow and develop along with the plot that keeps the pages turning quickly in this book. Very easy and engaging read that blends sci-fi and basic human interaction flawlessly
May 1, 2024
A great book! Its characters are so brilliantly developed (I feel like I'd know them if I met them) and I love the leadership lessons that are threaded throughout.
April 30, 2024
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. It was better than the first one!! It finished up all the unanswered questions I had, but I am left with more questions now. I hope there will be a third one.
I especially loved how the characters came together as a unit amid the ups and downs of being in space.
I especially loved how the characters came together as a unit amid the ups and downs of being in space.
April 1, 2024
A well written sci-fi tale with a strongly realistic setting. There are strong characters, unexpected twists, numerous situational dramas and emotional tangles. A highlight, reminisent of the moon landing and a look into the future of space exploration and human galactic expansion.
November 27, 2024
Zoë Routh’s Olympus Bound takes us to the Moon, where humanity wrestles with survival and cooperation in a harsh, unforgiving environment. The story follows Xanthe Waters, the commander of a lunar base built by Gaia Enterprises. She navigates the challenges of constructing a habitable outpost while dealing with political tensions, unexpected meteor storms, and personal struggles. Set against a backdrop of Earth's looming climate collapse, this science fiction story dives deep into the duality of leadership, teamwork, and human ambition.
What struck me most was how vividly Routh captures the Moon's stark beauty. The descriptions of its surface or gazing at Earth from the Atrium were breathtaking. The meticulous attention to detail in depicting life on the Moon, from the intricacies of 3D printing habitat walls to the struggle of maintaining atmospheric integrity, grounds the story in reality. It reminded me why I adore dystopian sci-fi. I love the interplay of human resilience and vulnerability. That scene with the meteor storm tearing through the Atrium left me on edge both for the characters’ survival and the symbolic loss of their view of the stars.
I think Routh also excels at character dynamics. Xanthe’s leadership is layered, balancing competence with a relatable sense of doubt. I loved her quiet moments in the Atrium, reflecting on Earth's decline and her own fragmented past. Her interactions with Troy felt heartfelt without tipping into melodrama. The rivalry with Colonel Jin added tension, highlighting how the Moon's desolation amplifies human conflicts.
Thematically, the book thrives in its exploration of humanity's ambition and flaws. The contrast between the Chinese and Gaia bases underlines our tendency to compete, even when cooperation is essential. The subplot involving sabotage and past betrayals on Earth cleverly mirrors the larger stakes on the Moon. However, I occasionally found the pacing uneven. The technical descriptions are immersive but sometimes slow the narrative, particularly during the repair sequences with Athena, the base’s A.I. Still, Athena’s logs sprinkled throughout were a nice touch, offering philosophical insights that deepened the story’s themes.
Olympus Bound is a thoughtful blend of high-stakes and intimate character work. If you’re someone who loves realistic depictions of space exploration peppered with human drama and a touch of existential dread, this dystopian sci-fi book is for you. It’s a compelling reminder of why we look to the stars and why the challenges we face up there often reflect the ones we leave behind on Earth.
What struck me most was how vividly Routh captures the Moon's stark beauty. The descriptions of its surface or gazing at Earth from the Atrium were breathtaking. The meticulous attention to detail in depicting life on the Moon, from the intricacies of 3D printing habitat walls to the struggle of maintaining atmospheric integrity, grounds the story in reality. It reminded me why I adore dystopian sci-fi. I love the interplay of human resilience and vulnerability. That scene with the meteor storm tearing through the Atrium left me on edge both for the characters’ survival and the symbolic loss of their view of the stars.
I think Routh also excels at character dynamics. Xanthe’s leadership is layered, balancing competence with a relatable sense of doubt. I loved her quiet moments in the Atrium, reflecting on Earth's decline and her own fragmented past. Her interactions with Troy felt heartfelt without tipping into melodrama. The rivalry with Colonel Jin added tension, highlighting how the Moon's desolation amplifies human conflicts.
Thematically, the book thrives in its exploration of humanity's ambition and flaws. The contrast between the Chinese and Gaia bases underlines our tendency to compete, even when cooperation is essential. The subplot involving sabotage and past betrayals on Earth cleverly mirrors the larger stakes on the Moon. However, I occasionally found the pacing uneven. The technical descriptions are immersive but sometimes slow the narrative, particularly during the repair sequences with Athena, the base’s A.I. Still, Athena’s logs sprinkled throughout were a nice touch, offering philosophical insights that deepened the story’s themes.
Olympus Bound is a thoughtful blend of high-stakes and intimate character work. If you’re someone who loves realistic depictions of space exploration peppered with human drama and a touch of existential dread, this dystopian sci-fi book is for you. It’s a compelling reminder of why we look to the stars and why the challenges we face up there often reflect the ones we leave behind on Earth.
October 19, 2024
Lunar Leadership Saga
Leadership in extreme environments—like a base on the Moon—can make or break a mission. Scientific studies show that in high-stress settings, clear communication and psychological resilience are vital for survival. Zoë Routh’s Olympus Bound vividly explores these dynamics through the lens of Commander Xanthe Waters, who navigates life on a Moonbase fraught with physical and emotional peril. The base itself is a testament to the human ambition to conquer not just space, but the challenges Earth throws at us—like environmental collapse and climate crises.
In the novel, Xanthe and her diverse crew must manage limited resources, looming meteor threats, and fragile political alliances with other lunar bases. They are not just building a Moonbase—they are experimenting with humanity’s survival. The novel’s realistic depiction of leadership struggles reflects real-world challenges faced by teams in extreme conditions, whether on Earth or beyond.
One of the novel’s most poignant elements is how it emphasises Earth’s dwindling resources and the desperation driving humanity to seek survival elsewhere. In Routh’s vision, life on the Moon is both a sanctuary and a harsh reminder of Earth’s fragility. The base’s greenhouse—a microcosm of Earth’s ecosystems—is a central symbol, highlighting the crew’s dependency on delicate systems that mirror our own planet’s vulnerability.
The stakes are not just personal—they are planetary. Xanthe’s reflections on Earth, particularly her memories of a once-thriving Australia, remind readers of the environmental themes central to the story: the irreversible damage done to Earth and the importance of creating sustainable environments, even on the Moon.
There are no significant content warnings in Olympus Bound, though the physical and emotional struggles faced by the crew may be intense for some readers.
Figuratively speaking, Olympus Bound reads like a tightly wound thread, unspooling through space to remind us that no matter how far humanity ventures, our survival is always tethered to the delicate balance we must maintain with nature.
This book is a Book of the Earth Award winner. (Reference: https://wordsoftheearth.com/books-of-...)
Leadership in extreme environments—like a base on the Moon—can make or break a mission. Scientific studies show that in high-stress settings, clear communication and psychological resilience are vital for survival. Zoë Routh’s Olympus Bound vividly explores these dynamics through the lens of Commander Xanthe Waters, who navigates life on a Moonbase fraught with physical and emotional peril. The base itself is a testament to the human ambition to conquer not just space, but the challenges Earth throws at us—like environmental collapse and climate crises.
In the novel, Xanthe and her diverse crew must manage limited resources, looming meteor threats, and fragile political alliances with other lunar bases. They are not just building a Moonbase—they are experimenting with humanity’s survival. The novel’s realistic depiction of leadership struggles reflects real-world challenges faced by teams in extreme conditions, whether on Earth or beyond.
One of the novel’s most poignant elements is how it emphasises Earth’s dwindling resources and the desperation driving humanity to seek survival elsewhere. In Routh’s vision, life on the Moon is both a sanctuary and a harsh reminder of Earth’s fragility. The base’s greenhouse—a microcosm of Earth’s ecosystems—is a central symbol, highlighting the crew’s dependency on delicate systems that mirror our own planet’s vulnerability.
The stakes are not just personal—they are planetary. Xanthe’s reflections on Earth, particularly her memories of a once-thriving Australia, remind readers of the environmental themes central to the story: the irreversible damage done to Earth and the importance of creating sustainable environments, even on the Moon.
There are no significant content warnings in Olympus Bound, though the physical and emotional struggles faced by the crew may be intense for some readers.
Figuratively speaking, Olympus Bound reads like a tightly wound thread, unspooling through space to remind us that no matter how far humanity ventures, our survival is always tethered to the delicate balance we must maintain with nature.
This book is a Book of the Earth Award winner. (Reference: https://wordsoftheearth.com/books-of-...)
July 30, 2024
‘Olympus Bound’ is finally here - and it’s incredible! I’m always wary of sequels because they seldom seem to capture the things that made the first book a hit. But this one is undoubtedly so much better! All I’ll tell you about the plot is that it follows the team six months into their mission to establish a colony on the moon, as they try to survive against all odds.
Here’s what I liked about this book, and what I felt could’ve been done better.
LIKES:
The plot - fast, tense, suspenseful, absolutely incredible!
I love, love, LOVED the character arcs! The way Xanthe’s inner conflict and her relationship with Jack was described really touched me. Routh has brought out the dynamic and the connections between the team really well, and the way they came together as a family to survive through a hard situation was really moving.
I loved the elements of humor that were infused in between the tense happenings. The light-hearted banter between the crew members added such a refreshing break from the tension, and made everything seem so much more realistic.
DISLIKES:
The romances. Honestly, they weren’t bad at all, and I liked their development and their intensity. But a lot of the scenes just felt a bit too sentimental and maudlin - I felt like the realism and sincerity which Routh’s dialog usually has was missing here.
Quite a few of the plot points felt a little… contrived. Like, the first part introduced the team as the best world designers from earth - I’d have thought they could’ve predicted some of the challenges the team faced and designed with those in mind.
Similarly, a few plot points also felt a little rushed. Things that seemed insurmountable in the first part were a bit too easily resolved, which made those parts of the story feel slightly unrealistic.
But none of these dislikes took away from the overall reading experience of the book. ‘Olympus Bound’ is a gem, and definitely the best of Zoe Routh’s books up until now.
Here’s what I liked about this book, and what I felt could’ve been done better.
LIKES:
The plot - fast, tense, suspenseful, absolutely incredible!
I love, love, LOVED the character arcs! The way Xanthe’s inner conflict and her relationship with Jack was described really touched me. Routh has brought out the dynamic and the connections between the team really well, and the way they came together as a family to survive through a hard situation was really moving.
I loved the elements of humor that were infused in between the tense happenings. The light-hearted banter between the crew members added such a refreshing break from the tension, and made everything seem so much more realistic.
DISLIKES:
The romances. Honestly, they weren’t bad at all, and I liked their development and their intensity. But a lot of the scenes just felt a bit too sentimental and maudlin - I felt like the realism and sincerity which Routh’s dialog usually has was missing here.
Quite a few of the plot points felt a little… contrived. Like, the first part introduced the team as the best world designers from earth - I’d have thought they could’ve predicted some of the challenges the team faced and designed with those in mind.
Similarly, a few plot points also felt a little rushed. Things that seemed insurmountable in the first part were a bit too easily resolved, which made those parts of the story feel slightly unrealistic.
But none of these dislikes took away from the overall reading experience of the book. ‘Olympus Bound’ is a gem, and definitely the best of Zoe Routh’s books up until now.
July 14, 2024
‘Olympus Bound’ basically picks up from where we left off the characters in ‘The Olympus Project’. Xanthe and the team have spent six months on the moon, trying to build a livable home on its unforgiving terrain. But they soon run into a series of disasters that threaten the project and their lives, even as the earth is ruined by ecoterrorists. This book is an epic story of survival against all odds, as Xanthe and the other characters struggle against one obstacle after another.
One of the highlights of this book for me was the worldbuilding and the description. The Olympus base on the moon, and its various sections, were described so well that I could vividly see them! I felt like I was actually in space the entire time right beside these characters. And the innovative technologies, from AI to Thinklink and so on were fascinating - they felt futuristic, but also like the kind of things that might actually exist in the not-too- distant future!
My favorite part of the previous book was the vividly drawn characters, and I was really curious to see how Routh would deal with them in the sequel. I felt like Xanthe’s inner conflicts took center stage here, but other characters like Madison and Jonas also have amazing arcs. The element of how human beings act under pressure, which was a crucial part of the first book, is also highlighted incredibly well here. The romances, the group politics, the loyalties and allegiances, and the family dynamic made this book so much richer for me.Highly recommended - I can only hope we get a third part, because I’m not ready to leave this world!
One of the highlights of this book for me was the worldbuilding and the description. The Olympus base on the moon, and its various sections, were described so well that I could vividly see them! I felt like I was actually in space the entire time right beside these characters. And the innovative technologies, from AI to Thinklink and so on were fascinating - they felt futuristic, but also like the kind of things that might actually exist in the not-too- distant future!
My favorite part of the previous book was the vividly drawn characters, and I was really curious to see how Routh would deal with them in the sequel. I felt like Xanthe’s inner conflicts took center stage here, but other characters like Madison and Jonas also have amazing arcs. The element of how human beings act under pressure, which was a crucial part of the first book, is also highlighted incredibly well here. The romances, the group politics, the loyalties and allegiances, and the family dynamic made this book so much richer for me.Highly recommended - I can only hope we get a third part, because I’m not ready to leave this world!
July 31, 2024
When the earth became increasingly unsafe to live on for human beings, Commander Xanthe Waters and her team set out on a mission to make the moon a livable home. In ‘Olympus Bound’, they soon discover that the moon is not much safer. As ecological disasters and political pressures from earth pile up, the crew falls under even more strain surviving on the moon.
This book is filled with terribly tense situations, even more so than the previous one - the meteor strikes, the breakdown of satellite communication, the issues created by the moon’s topography, and so on. And these aren’t just simulated tests or a practice run anymore. They’re the real thing, and the cost of one misjudgement is death, and the potential extinction of the human race! This looming threat of death and extinction adds an almost unbearable pressure to the narrative. I was constantly afraid for what would happen next, and praying the crew would survive!
But the biggest reason I fell in love with Routh was her writing style. There is nothing esoteric or intimidating about her writing, no matter how serious the themes or how technical the descriptions may be. She has such a talent for using precise, accessible language to discuss the most complex subjects. And that’s what makes this book a truly enjoyable read. Fingers crossed we get a part 3 soon!
This book is filled with terribly tense situations, even more so than the previous one - the meteor strikes, the breakdown of satellite communication, the issues created by the moon’s topography, and so on. And these aren’t just simulated tests or a practice run anymore. They’re the real thing, and the cost of one misjudgement is death, and the potential extinction of the human race! This looming threat of death and extinction adds an almost unbearable pressure to the narrative. I was constantly afraid for what would happen next, and praying the crew would survive!
But the biggest reason I fell in love with Routh was her writing style. There is nothing esoteric or intimidating about her writing, no matter how serious the themes or how technical the descriptions may be. She has such a talent for using precise, accessible language to discuss the most complex subjects. And that’s what makes this book a truly enjoyable read. Fingers crossed we get a part 3 soon!
July 18, 2024
I read ‘The Olympus Project’ when it first came out and while I was impressed by the author’s prowess and the creative storyline, I didn’t LOVE love it. It just started way too slowly for my liking, and I felt like it should’ve been shorter. When this sequel came out, I picked it up out of curiosity for the plot more than anything else. Let me tell you, this book swept me off my feet! It focuses on all the elements that I thought the first book should’ve been about – the moon mission itself and the way the team lives in that habitat, and the dynamic between the characters.
The ‘found family’ dynamic between the different characters as they struggle in Olympus is brilliantly developed in this book. There are some very well-written moments of love and bonding between the team, and I really loved the romances as well! And as they work together to survive the hardships of outer space, the stakes rise steadily – SO much happens in this book that you’re constantly afraid for the team’s survival. The ecoterrorism angle, the rescue mission, and the team’s repair and maintenance efforts add such tension and suspense to the story that you simply can’t put it down.
An incredible reading experience!
The ‘found family’ dynamic between the different characters as they struggle in Olympus is brilliantly developed in this book. There are some very well-written moments of love and bonding between the team, and I really loved the romances as well! And as they work together to survive the hardships of outer space, the stakes rise steadily – SO much happens in this book that you’re constantly afraid for the team’s survival. The ecoterrorism angle, the rescue mission, and the team’s repair and maintenance efforts add such tension and suspense to the story that you simply can’t put it down.
An incredible reading experience!
July 22, 2024
‘Olympus Bound’ is the fantastic sequel to ‘The Olympus Project’ by Zoe Routh, and it takes the story of Gaia Enterprises and the Olympus crew forward in their mission to build a colony on the moon.
The human focus that made the first book so great is present here too - at its core, ‘Olympus Bound’ is also a story of human personalities, relationships, and growth under extreme pressure. The characters develop in poignant yet very relatable ways, be it Xanthe’s struggle with love and her past, or David’s atonement. But where this book far surpasses the first one is in its plot. The different obstacles and catastrophes that plague the crew are developed with great detail, and yet the pacing does not lag for a moment. There is not a single page of the 93 chapters that feels extra or unnecessary - and the suspense and foreboding is incredible.
I absolutely loved how Routh also took the corporate politics and environmental crisis of the first part up a notch here. The descriptions of how ecoterrorism ravages the earth, and the implications that this geopolitical chaos has for the moon mission are brilliantly integrated. The isolated, dusty surface of the moon feels vividly real, and the way each character interacts with and is influenced by the setting is just genius.
The human focus that made the first book so great is present here too - at its core, ‘Olympus Bound’ is also a story of human personalities, relationships, and growth under extreme pressure. The characters develop in poignant yet very relatable ways, be it Xanthe’s struggle with love and her past, or David’s atonement. But where this book far surpasses the first one is in its plot. The different obstacles and catastrophes that plague the crew are developed with great detail, and yet the pacing does not lag for a moment. There is not a single page of the 93 chapters that feels extra or unnecessary - and the suspense and foreboding is incredible.
I absolutely loved how Routh also took the corporate politics and environmental crisis of the first part up a notch here. The descriptions of how ecoterrorism ravages the earth, and the implications that this geopolitical chaos has for the moon mission are brilliantly integrated. The isolated, dusty surface of the moon feels vividly real, and the way each character interacts with and is influenced by the setting is just genius.
July 30, 2024
The much-awaited sequel to ‘The Olympus Project’ is finally here! ‘Olympus Bound’ is the second novel in Zoe Routh’s Gaia series, and it follows Commander Xanthe Waters and her crew as they finally walk the moon, and attempt to make it a sustainable home for human beings. We see the crew deal with the physical and mental impact of isolation in outer space, and face internal and external issues and challenges. Picking up from the first book, this one also addresses themes of space exploration, human nature, power, and leadership, along with tackling politics and ecoterrorism.
Right off the bat, this is an incredible book, definitely better than the first part. And yes, you don’t necessarily need to have read the first part to understand this one (though I’d def recommend reading it first, it’s great!).
This one has everything that the other book had, just raised to level 11 - the plot becomes much more serious and tense, the obstacles are truly life-threatening, the characters and their emotions only become more complex. And trust me, go into it blind. Don’t read the reviews, or even the synopsis - you’ll get the full sci-fi rollercoaster experience then, and the ups and down of this book will blow you away! A definite must-read!
Right off the bat, this is an incredible book, definitely better than the first part. And yes, you don’t necessarily need to have read the first part to understand this one (though I’d def recommend reading it first, it’s great!).
This one has everything that the other book had, just raised to level 11 - the plot becomes much more serious and tense, the obstacles are truly life-threatening, the characters and their emotions only become more complex. And trust me, go into it blind. Don’t read the reviews, or even the synopsis - you’ll get the full sci-fi rollercoaster experience then, and the ups and down of this book will blow you away! A definite must-read!
July 12, 2024
‘Olympus Bound’ is the second instalment of the Gaia series by Zoe Routh. It follows Commander Xanthe Waters and her team as they journey to the moon and establish the first human habitat base, Olympus. It focuses on how the team deals with obstacles as they struggle to work on the Olympus Base, ranging from internal conflicts and team dynamics, to geopolitical tensions, and a struggle for survival.
I am in awe with the way Routh develops her characters. The previous book was a wonderfully observed character study, and this book is no different. Xanthe’s arc was the highlight of this book for me - her internal conflict, her interactions with her son, even her romance with Troy felt so realistic, I was rooting for her all the way! I also loved the camaraderie and interactions between the entire team. The touch of humor and the bonding between them even as they struggled with relentless pressure and life-threatening situations added a brilliant realism to the book.
Zoe Routh is a sci-fi writer to watch out for, and this book is a definite must-read. I’m hoping and praying that we get a third part!
I am in awe with the way Routh develops her characters. The previous book was a wonderfully observed character study, and this book is no different. Xanthe’s arc was the highlight of this book for me - her internal conflict, her interactions with her son, even her romance with Troy felt so realistic, I was rooting for her all the way! I also loved the camaraderie and interactions between the entire team. The touch of humor and the bonding between them even as they struggled with relentless pressure and life-threatening situations added a brilliant realism to the book.
Zoe Routh is a sci-fi writer to watch out for, and this book is a definite must-read. I’m hoping and praying that we get a third part!
March 10, 2025
After loving the first book, I was super excited for book 2, and I’m happy to say it didn’t disappoint at all. Routh has really nailed it again with another engaging read that you won’t want to put down.
In this second book, the characters are even more well-developed. Each one faces tough decisions that challenge their leadership skills and personal values, and it’s really interesting to see how they handle everything. The way Routh writes these characters makes them feel real, and you can’t help but get invested in their journeys. The storyline is full of twists and turns that keep you hooked, and what’s great is how Routh balances that with good character growth. With every twist, you learn more about the characters.
What really stands out to me is how emotional this book is. It mixes intense action with moments where the characters reflect on themselves and their decisions. Routh’s writing makes you think about leadership, staying true to your values, and handling life’s challenges in a really thoughtful way.
In this second book, the characters are even more well-developed. Each one faces tough decisions that challenge their leadership skills and personal values, and it’s really interesting to see how they handle everything. The way Routh writes these characters makes them feel real, and you can’t help but get invested in their journeys. The storyline is full of twists and turns that keep you hooked, and what’s great is how Routh balances that with good character growth. With every twist, you learn more about the characters.
What really stands out to me is how emotional this book is. It mixes intense action with moments where the characters reflect on themselves and their decisions. Routh’s writing makes you think about leadership, staying true to your values, and handling life’s challenges in a really thoughtful way.
March 19, 2025
Moving from building communities on Earth to setting up the first human colony in space. This book has everything. Focus on science and tech was really amazing. I had a lot of questions like, What drives companies to fund space projects? And how do people handle being stuck together in a small space for a long time?
The author does a great job of making everything feel real and believable. The first half of the book focuses on selecting the team, while the second half is about their survival experiment on the moon. There’s a bit of mystery around who makes the cut, which keeps things interesting, but it does take some effort to keep track of everyone.
The second half has a few detours into corporate secrets and politics. But when the book sticks to the team solving problems together in their tiny space habitat, it’s really engaging. This was a fun read. It blends real-world challenges with a glimpse of the future in a way that makes you feel like this could actually happen someday.
The author does a great job of making everything feel real and believable. The first half of the book focuses on selecting the team, while the second half is about their survival experiment on the moon. There’s a bit of mystery around who makes the cut, which keeps things interesting, but it does take some effort to keep track of everyone.
The second half has a few detours into corporate secrets and politics. But when the book sticks to the team solving problems together in their tiny space habitat, it’s really engaging. This was a fun read. It blends real-world challenges with a glimpse of the future in a way that makes you feel like this could actually happen someday.
July 27, 2024
‘Olympus Bound’ is a fantastic, heartbreaking, nail-biting adventure! The Gaia Enterprises crew have finally built a moon colony - but living on the moon is easier said than done. Six months into their stay on the moon, the crew faces unforeseen circumstances and life-threatening issues that force them to reevaluate. But the Earth is not a viable living option either - environmental terrorism has led to widespread death and destruction, and human society is in chaos.
How do human beings function when put together in an isolated space? How will a person cope with the unimaginable pressure of saving humankind? Will we ever be able to salvage the earth, or are we programmed to cause destruction in every habitat we choose? These are just some of the heavy questions that this book asks you to think about. This image of a future for humanity genuinely chilled me to the bone. A truly timeless, relevant book that should be read by everyone.
How do human beings function when put together in an isolated space? How will a person cope with the unimaginable pressure of saving humankind? Will we ever be able to salvage the earth, or are we programmed to cause destruction in every habitat we choose? These are just some of the heavy questions that this book asks you to think about. This image of a future for humanity genuinely chilled me to the bone. A truly timeless, relevant book that should be read by everyone.
July 29, 2024
What a fascinating read! This book is more than just a sci-fi thriller. Yes, it is riveting and packed with action and suspense - and it’s definitely a thrilling journey from the first page. But the questions and themes it discusses are so complex and relevant that describing it as a ‘sci-fi thriller’ simply does not do it justice!
It deals with the issue of environmental terrorism in a really novel and interesting way. I really like how the book showed that monumental efforts to do good never exist in a vacuum - they are always influenced by human concerns, be it corporate greed or geopolitics.
The characters are shown dealing with intense situations, making tough decisions, and grappling with their own emotions and relationships, and through this, the book discusses themes of teamwork, leadership, sacrifice, and the human experience under extreme circumstances. ‘Olympus Bound’ is a must-read novel.
It deals with the issue of environmental terrorism in a really novel and interesting way. I really like how the book showed that monumental efforts to do good never exist in a vacuum - they are always influenced by human concerns, be it corporate greed or geopolitics.
The characters are shown dealing with intense situations, making tough decisions, and grappling with their own emotions and relationships, and through this, the book discusses themes of teamwork, leadership, sacrifice, and the human experience under extreme circumstances. ‘Olympus Bound’ is a must-read novel.
July 29, 2024
A beautiful, thought-provoking blend of thrilling sci-fi with realistic human drama. ‘Olympus Bound’, the second part in Routh’s Gaia series, continues the story of Xanthe and her crew, six months into their mission on the moon. I loved the character arcs of the entire crew - especially Madison and Jonas’s development was really interesting! Xanthe’s internal conflict and her dynamic with her son reminded me of my own relationship with my mother in a lot of ways.
Just like with the previous book, these characters are the heart and soul of ‘Olympus Bound’ - it is through them that the plot moves forward, and rooting for them increases the tension of the reading experience. I think Routh’s expertise shines best in the parts involving the team’s everyday life and their dynamic - the interactions between the crew as they attempt to live in the harsh conditions on the moon are the most poignant and memorable parts of the book. A definite must-read.
Just like with the previous book, these characters are the heart and soul of ‘Olympus Bound’ - it is through them that the plot moves forward, and rooting for them increases the tension of the reading experience. I think Routh’s expertise shines best in the parts involving the team’s everyday life and their dynamic - the interactions between the crew as they attempt to live in the harsh conditions on the moon are the most poignant and memorable parts of the book. A definite must-read.
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