The Olympian Artifacts

by Liz Molloy

Ancient, powerful artifacts. Vengeful academics. Prodigious partnerships.

Spring, 1924. Clara Fairfax has spent her life being told “no”—denied entry to the post-graduate program at Oxford, overlooked for prestigious archaeological expeditions, dismissed by a world that doubts a woman’s place in history. But when she finally joins a daring journey to uncover the sites of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, Clara’s determination is tested like never before.

Her discovery of an artifact of Olympian power thrusts her into a deadly game. Hunted by ruthless rivals who would use it to reshape the world, she must rely on an unexpected Henry Ashford, her brilliant and infuriating academic rival. Together, they navigate a treacherous journey across Europe, unravel ancient secrets, and fight to protect humanity from chaos.

Amid danger and intrigue, trust sparks into passion—and Clara finds the courage, cunning, and heart to become the heroine she was always meant to be.

Genres: Fantasy, Fiction, Historical

338 pages, Kindle Edition

Expected publication September 15, 2026

About the author

Liz Molloy was born and raised in the suburbs of New York City and now lives in Naples, Florida with her family. She’s a writer of historical, fantasy, and women’s fiction. When she’s not daydreaming or writing her next novel, she’s cuddling up with her dogs to read a book or playing with her niece.
Follow her on Instagram (@booksbylizm) for updates on her latest releases, upcoming events and more!

Reviews

[Hannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow this book really took me by surprise. My thoughts straight away when starting this was how beautiful and eloquent the writing was to match with the main characters personality. As the story progressed you got to see this character grow and truly embrace her strength and ability to cope with the pressure of her circumstance. The bond formed between Clara and Henry was so natural and really made you hope for them to have a future. This was such a brilliant story and so easy to read, you really could fly through the chapters.

Thank you so much for the opportunity to read this wonderful arc!

[Kenny Kemper · Rating 5 out of 5]

Huge thanks to @olivepresspublishing and @booksbylizm for this incredible ARC! I stepped out of my comfort zone with this one, and it totally paid off. The historical fiction and magical realism elements merged beautifully, making for a truly unforgettable read. As a girl dad, I found the FMC's journey to be both fun and empowering. This book has earned a well-deserved 5 stars, and I'm excited to see where the series goes from here!!

[Vampire Bones · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and the publishing company for granting me an ARC of this book!

This was a really enjoyable read. The premise of the book itself was really refreshing and exciting- a young, determined woman joins her grandfather’s archaeological expedition and stumbles upon a mythical ancient artefact which changes the course of her life forever.

I enjoyed following Clara through her adventure, seeing her grow and be pushed to her limits on the journey. I will admit, the story starts off pretty slowly and repetitively but once the main plot began I was seated. There are a lot of tense moments throughout the book, which I wasn’t really expecting! A lot of suspense regarding who the characters can trust, or what danger might be lurking around the next corner, waiting to strike. I loved the chase of it all, and I found myself fighting sleep after my long work shifts just to stay awake and read a few more chapters.

Overall, a lovely read. I look forward to any future releases Liz Molloy should put out.

[Susie | rekroceisusreads · Rating 3 out of 5]

I want to start by saying that the writing was beautiful, the story was unique, and it was very well researched. I tried to leave my art historian hat at the door and found that I didn’t need to because the did a really good job on that front.

This is a really challenging review to write because the book checks all the boxes for me, but I still found myself putting off picking the book up. We spend a lot of time inside Clara’s head, with a lot of inner monologue, and she tends to jump to conclusions a lot, which is a main driver for moving the plot along. The theme of woman’s suffrage is also a little heavy handed through a modern lens that I felt could have used more smoothing.

This book in combination with the writing style and the romance subplot was reminiscent of the Divine Rivals duology, which also left me feeling the exact same way after finishing - so if you’re a fan of Rebecca Ross, this is the perfect read for you!

Thank you so much to the author and Olive Press Publishing for the opportunity to read and review this book before its release on September 15th!

[jana · Rating 4 out of 5]

(I don’t think I spoiled anything major but I’m putting the warning anyway just because I’m overthinking this 😭)

Whew. If you scrolled down to see how long this review is before actually reading it...first of all, valid. Second of all, same 😭. I regret to inform you that I had thoughts. A truly unreasonable amount of thoughts, so please accept my sincerest apologies in advance.

Thank you so much to NetGalley and Olive Press Publishing for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review ♡
3.5 ⭐️ rounded up to 4 ⭐️ because the heart wants what it wants (Selena Gomez, circa 2014).

It’s not an exaggeration to say that I ate this up. Ancient history? Check. Greek mythology? Check. Archaeology? Absolutely. Treasure hunts across Europe? Sign me tf up immediately. An ambitious woman trying to carve out a place for herself in an academic world determined to shut her out? You already had me before I even finished reading the synopsis. By the time the actual Olympian artifacts themselves entered the story, I had the biggest grin on my face because I realized this book wasn’t just borrowing mythology as decoration. This book genuinely wanted to celebrate history, the people who dedicate their lives to preserving it and the stories hidden beneath layers of dust that most of the world has long forgotten. As someone who has always been fascinated by museums, ruins and civilizations that continue to shape the present thousands of years after their fall, this novel felt like it had reached into every crevice of my brain and assembled itself out of everything I find endlessly fascinating.

One of the first things I noticed was just how visual this novel is. I know “cinematic” has become one of those words that gets thrown around so often that it almost loses meaning but I genuinely mean it here. Reading this felt less like reading words on a page and more like watching an adventure film unfold scene by scene. It honestly reminded me of the feeling I had watching Night at the Museum as a kid, convinced that museums became magical once the doors closed. There is something so inherently magical about archaeology itself. You’re literally touching the fingerprints of people who lived thousands of years before you. History suddenly stops being something confined to textbooks and becomes tangible. This book understands that feeling remarkably well, and I think that’s one of its greatest strengths.

The premise itself was honestly enough to hook me before the characters even had the chance to. I am embarrassingly obsessed with stories revolving around ancient civilizations, forgotten relics, hidden artifacts, and lost histories. So naturally, the idea of Olympian artifacts hidden among the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World had me absolutely beaming. It scratches that exact same itch that stories like National Treasure, The Mummy, and even certain fantasy manhwa do, where every discovery feels like solving another impossible puzzle. What I appreciated, though, was that the mythology never completely overshadowed the humanity of the story. The artifact may possess godlike power, but the novel remains grounded in the people chasing it, protecting it, and questioning whether anyone should possess that kind of power in the first place.

But beneath all the adventure, mythology, and mystery lies something that resonated with me even more deeply: Clara herself. I don’t think it’s difficult to root for someone whose greatest dream is repeatedly dismissed simply because of the body she was born into. From the very beginning, Clara is forced to confront a reality that so many women, both historically and even today, understand all too well. She isn’t denied opportunities because she lacks intelligence. She isn’t overlooked because she isn’t capable. She is overlooked because she is a woman. That distinction matters. One of the excerpts that lingered with me long after I finished reading was Clara’s reflection on how the exact same confidence, ambition, and persistence admired in men would immediately be labeled arrogance or impropriety in women. I found that observation painfully honest because it extends so far beyond the novel’s 1924 setting. It’s historical, yes, but it also feels frustratingly timeless. Reading Clara constantly being told “no” while watching less qualified men walk effortlessly through doors closed to her made every single one of her victories feel earned. She wasn’t asking for special treatment, nor was she asking people to lower their standards. She simply wanted to be judged by those standards in the first place.

What I especially appreciated was that the novel never frames Clara as extraordinary because she is somehow “not like other women.” Quite the opposite, actually. Her strength comes from embracing womanhood rather than distancing herself from it. She dreams, she doubts herself, she loves fiercely, she grieves deeply, and she refuses to compromise who she is just to become more palatable for the men around her. It could have come across as overly on-the-nose in another story, but here it felt like the natural culmination of every frustration she’s been forced to swallow. I think this is where the book reminded me, oddly enough, of Greta Gerwig’s Barbie. The stories aren’t remotely similar obviously, but they evoke the same warmth. They remind you that womanhood isn’t something restrictive. It is expansive, resilient, constantly evolving, and deeply beautiful. I could easily imagine teenage girls reading Clara’s story and finding inspiration in her refusal to shrink herself, while women in their twenties and beyond might recognize pieces of themselves in the exhaustion of constantly having to prove they deserve a seat at the table.

One aspect of the novel that particularly stood out to me was its treatment of mythology, specifically through the women history tends to leave behind. I absolutely loved the conversation surrounding Ariadne because it reframes a myth many people only know through the achievements of Theseus. Instead, Clara focuses on Ariadne herself: the woman whose story was reduced to a footnote despite sacrificing everything. History remembers conquerors, kings, and heroes, but how often does it remember the women standing beside them? Or worse, the women whose stories were deliberately forgotten? As someone who genuinely enjoys mythology, I found myself appreciating how the novel consistently encouraged readers to reconsider whose voices survive throughout history and whose voices disappear. Archaeology is, in many ways, about recovering what time has buried. This novel extends that same philosophy toward women.

If Clara became the heart of the novel, then Grandad undoubtedly became its soul. Their relationship completely stole mine. Every scene between them felt so incredibly gentle that I almost wanted to pause after each conversation just to sit with it a little longer. It’s difficult to explain why their relationship affected me so much without becoming emotional myself, but I think it comes down to how uncomplicated his love is. He never questions Clara’s intelligence. He never asks her to become smaller for her own safety. He never suggests she should settle for a quieter life simply because it would be easier. Instead, he believes in her with such unwavering certainty that his confidence almost becomes contagious. He’s basically her #1 fan. Sometimes one person seeing your potential before you see it yourself is enough to change the entire course of your life.

And then...Henry Ashford.

I am, unfortunately, exactly the target audience for this man and the romance in this book.

Academic rivals? Yes. Mutual admiration built upon genuine intellectual respect? Even better. Fake marriage? Close proximity? Watching each other when the other isn’t looking? Quiet acts of devotion instead of loud declarations? A romance where falling in love begins with admiring someone’s mind rather than simply finding them attractive? Please. I was done for before I even realized it.

What I think makes their relationship so effective is that it never feels like attraction trying to masquerade as compatibility. Henry doesn’t fall for Clara because destiny says he should. He falls for the woman brave enough to challenge professors in lecture halls filled entirely with men. He notices her courage before her beauty. He admires her convictions before he ever imagines holding her hand. That detail alone elevated the romance for me because I think respect forms the strongest possible foundation for love. By the time the romance reaches its emotional payoff, it feels entirely believable because their relationship has quietly been built through trust, shared purpose, and unwavering belief in each other’s abilities.

The fake marriage trope really did it for me, largely because it never relied solely on comedic misunderstandings. Of course there were moments that had me smiling like an idiot, particularly when everyone around them seemed significantly more convinced of their relationship than Clara herself was, but underneath those lighter scenes was something surprisingly tender. Clara spends so much of the novel questioning whether anyone truly sees her. Henry spends the entire novel proving that he always has. That realization ultimately became far more romantic than any grand confession ever could.

That being said, I don’t think the novel is without flaws, and I do think they’re worth mentioning. The dialogue occasionally felt slightly unnatural to me, particularly during conversations centered around feminism or historical discussions. There were moments where exchanges sounded less like spontaneous conversations and more like thoughtfully revised essays. I completely understood what the author wanted to communicate, and I often agreed with the ideas themselves, but I occasionally wished those conversations flowed a little more organically. I also found certain plot developments relatively predictable, and there were a handful of minor inconsistencies or small plot holes that made me briefly pause. Thankfully, none of these issues significantly affected my enjoyment because the pacing remained consistently engaging. This is an incredibly easy book to fly through. Every chapter naturally encourages you to keep reading, and before long you’ve accidentally spent your entire evening traveling across Europe in search of ancient artifacts instead of accomplishing whatever responsibilities you originally had planned.

The ending also left me with mixed emotions. Knowing this is intended to be the beginning of the Divine Woman series (great name, by the way) immediately made me curious because, emotionally speaking, this novel feels surprisingly complete. Obviously there are countless adventures still waiting for Clara, countless mysteries left to uncover, and an entire world of mythology still waiting to be explored, but one particular emotional thread (that I won’t spoil) reaches such a conclusion that I found myself wondering how future installments will capture that same magic. That isn’t criticism so much as genuine curiosity.

Ultimately, I think what I’ll remember most about The Olympian Artifacts isn’t necessarily the mythology or even the adventure, as enjoyable as both were. It’ll be the feeling this book left me with. The reminder that history isn’t merely a collection of dates and discoveries. It’s made up of ordinary people who dared to pursue extraordinary dreams despite being told they couldn’t. It’s made up of women whose contributions were overlooked, families who believed in each other when the world refused to, scholars who devoted their lives to preserving stories others deemed unimportant, and people who chose curiosity over complacency. In many ways, this novel argues that the greatest discoveries aren’t always the artifacts we unearth. Sometimes they’re the people history almost buried alongside them (the friends we made along the way?).

So if you’ve ever found yourself wandering through museums wishing the exhibits could speak, if Greek mythology has always occupied a permanent corner of your heart, if you love historical fantasy with archaeological adventures, if academic rivals make you immediately perk up, or if you’re simply searching for a story that celebrates curiosity, courage, and the quiet resilience of women who refuse to accept the limits imposed upon them, then I genuinely think The Olympian Artifacts is worth picking up.

Whew.

[Lynda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to Liz Molloy and NetGalley for the ARC!
This was a beautiful and heartwarming book! This specific sub trope of treasure hunting, archaeology, and romance is far too rare, and it happens to be my absolute favorite. The moment I heard about this book, I marked the release date on my calendar, so I was overjoyed when I was able to request an ARC.
The story is packed with amazing side characters who all bring their own magic to the page. Amina is such a gem, I wasn't sure what her role would be at first, and was weary, but she turned out to be fantastic. Along with Evangeline, the rest of the crew, and especially the granddad, everyone was so loving and supportive and genuinely wanted the best for her, regardless of the time period and that it just made my heart happy.
Henry had my heart from the very beginning. He showed his true feelings, his real self, and his fierce protectiveness early on. I loved that we got solid communication early instead of a frustrating miscommunication trope, which made me fall for him even faster and overall thank the author because most of the time a book and can do well without it.
The conclusion was deeply satisfying, though I wouldn’t have minded a bit more groveling from Henry when Clara was about to sever the connection! There were quite a few twists and turns I didn’t see coming, and nothing felt out of place. It was just a beautifully well-rounded, unique story. I’m so happy to see it come to fruition, and I’m already looking forward to what’s next in this series… I really hope we see Evie, Will, or even Amina’s own adventures!

[Lexi Stallings · Rating 5 out of 5]

My first early reader book!

Loved the pace and storyline of this one! I’m all for Olympic shenanigans.

[Joanne Spence · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Olympian Artifacts by Liz Malloy was an absolute delight, and one of my favourite reads of the year. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advance review copy.

Set in the years following World War I, during the height of the archaeology craze sparked by the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb, the novel follows Clara, a determined young woman trying to establish herself in a profession dominated by men. Malloy does an excellent job portraying the patriarchal barriers women in academia faced during the era, and Clara’s struggles feel both authentic and compelling.

Clara is intelligent, resourceful, and fiercely determined to prove her worth. When circumstances force her into an uneasy partnership with a rival, their relationship evolves from reluctant allies to something much deeper. I especially appreciated that Henry recognizes Clara as an intellectual equal and genuinely values her knowledge and abilities rather than trying to diminish them.

The story is packed with adventure and has all the excitement of a classic archaeological thriller. While the magical element surrounding the artifact initially felt unexpected, it ultimately becomes an essential part of the narrative and adds an intriguing layer to the story.

If you’ve ever wished for a female protagonist with the adventurous spirit of Indiana Jones, this book is for you. I thoroughly enjoyed every moment and would happily follow Clara on more adventures. Here’s hoping this is only the beginning of a series.

[RUTH GUCKIEAN · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐⭐ / 5

thank you to netgalley and the publisher for the earc!! 🗿⚱️

okay so we are in a MOMENT for women-in-academia historical fiction. between dark academia having its decade, the lingering effect of addie larue establishing the appetite for history-with-mythological-stakes, deep cuts doing what it did last year, and the general booktok pivot toward "smart heroines getting their professional flowers" — the timing on this is impeccable. liz molloy walked into a hot genre moment and absolutely held her own.

the setup:
❦ spring 1924 (interwar period, post-tutankhamun archaeology fever, peak colonial-coded artifact hunting, women being gatekept from the academia they were already doing the labor for)
❦ clara fairfax being denied oxford post-grad and overlooked for expeditions — historically accurate, not just girlboss backstory
❦ a quest across the SITES OF THE SEVEN WONDERS OF THE ANCIENT WORLD which is genuinely the most catnip premise i've heard in months
❦ academic rivals to reluctant allies to lovers (we know where this is going and we're thrilled about it)
❦ an ancient artifact of olympian power being hunted by ruthless academic rivals
❦ a 1920s slow burn across europe

the math: immaculate.

what genuinely landed for me:

❦ the 1924 setting is doing real work. molloy isn't just using the period for aesthetic flourish, she's using it to let clara's frustrations land with historical weight. the gatekeeping is real and the era is RIGHT for it
❦ the seven wonders quest structure is such a smart engine. each site is its own little adventure beat and the cumulative momentum carries you through
❦ clara and henry as intellectual equals is. so important to me. so many "rival" dynamics are just two people insulting each other, but molloy lets them actually be rivals in the substance of their work, which makes the eventual shift hit so much harder
❦ henry isn't reduced to obstacle-then-prize. he's allowed to be genuinely good at his job and genuinely a problem for clara, and the slow burn earns its yearning
❦ the prose is doing what it needs to do without showing off, which is its own kind of restraint i appreciate

the half star i'm withholding:
okay so the artifact-of-olympian-power as a macguffin does the propulsion work fine but i kept wanting molloy to push HARDER on the politics of it. like — 1924 europe, ancient artifacts being fought over by academic rivals, an item that could reshape the world. the interwar period is THICK with that kind of subtext (who owns history, who gets to wield ancient power, the very-not-subtle parallel to actual colonial archaeology happening at the time) and molloy gestures at it without quite landing the punch. also the european travel sequences felt a touch compressed in places — i wanted to LINGER more in some of these locations

but overall:
clara is a heroine i rooted for, henry is the kind of academic rival i could lock in for several hundred more pages of yearning, the seven wonders structure carried me through, and the 1924 setting is genuinely doing thematic work

for fans of: the invisible life of addie larue (for the mythological resonance), anyone who's been waiting for a feminist indiana jones in literary form, dark academia readers who want their setting to actually mean something, slow burn enemies-to-lovers loyalists, and people who want their historical fiction to do the historical part with intention ✨📜

[Zara Astrid · Rating 5 out of 5]

Liz Molloy’s The Olympian Artifacts is the start of what promises to be an absolutely dazzling historical Women's Fiction (fantasy? Speculative fiction? Magical Realism?) series.

Set in 1924 London, we follow Clara—a brilliant, highly educated young woman born into high society, yet constantly told “no” simply because she is female. When her grandfather is finally granted approval for the expedition they’ve both long dreamed of, Clara’s excitement burns through the pages. She’ll be traveling across Europe alongside historians, linguists, archaeologists…and, unfortunately, her academic rival, Henry Ashford.

From the very first chapter, this book swept me away. The historical detail is lush without being overwhelming, the atmosphere rich with post-war intellectual ambition and societal constraint. Clara’s frustration at being underestimated feels heartbreakingly authentic, and her determination to carve out space for herself in a world that resists her is deeply inspiring.

And then...the artifact.

When Clara becomes mysteriously bonded to an ancient Olympian artifact, the story shifts into high gear. What begins as an academic expedition transforms into a dangerous race across Europe. Power-hungry collectors and shadowy figures all want the artifact… which means they want Clara. The stakes feel intensely personal and genuinely perilous. The magical realism elements blend seamlessly into the historical setting, making the fantastical feel both grounded and wondrous.

The reluctant alliance between Clara and Henry is EVERYTHING. Their academic rivalry crackles with tension and yearning, but underneath it is mutual respect and intellectual equality. Watching them move from sharp-tongued adversaries to protective partners is so satisfying. The romance is sweet, slow-burning, and wholesome in the best way - built on admiration and genuine partnership. It never overshadows Clara’s agency; instead, it strengthens it. They truly feel like equals.

If you love:
The sweeping romance and longing of Pride & Prejudice
The adventurous found family dynamics of The Mummy
The adventures in Indiana Jones

This book is the product of all three.

But more than anything, this story feels like a love letter to ambitious women—especially those in eras that did not make space for them. Clara’s journey isn’t just about survival or romance; it’s about claiming intellectual authority, defying expectations, and choosing a life of purpose beyond the narrow roles society prescribes. That message resonates powerfully in a 1920s setting and still feels meaningful today.

This is historical women’s fiction with heart, adventure with real stakes, fantasy that feels ancient and dangerous, and a romance that makes you believe in partnership. I am already desperate for the next installment.

An unforgettable start to an extraordinary series.

Thank you to Olive Press Publishing and Liz Molloy for the ARC copy.

[T || · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a 7 ⭐️ rating from me. This isn’t my usual read. But OMG, I am obsessed. I cannot recommend it enough. Give it a go! Thank you to Olive Press Publishing & Liz for the opportunity to ARC read this.

The Olympian Artifact is Book 1 in the series called 'The Devine New Woman Series' by Liz Molloy.
Thanks to Olivepresspublishing & Liz Molloy for this ARC.

First of, I LOVED that this book was set in 1924 London in the UK in the beginning & for some reason this time round i really loved that it was first person! I think sometimes its a better POV! Loved it. So this whole read is first person as the character Clara Fairfax. I loved the depiction of the weather against the house etc at the beginning. It really gave me ran down, burnt out, overwhelming flow vibes.

I absolutely loved that she did not want to live the standard run of the mill life for that time period & wanted to actually live her life & experience her passions on archaeological sites etc & continuing to fight for her belief.

I love Clara's relationship with her grandad!!!I did feel bad for her about the fact she didn't want Henry to go on the expedition! Like why him, when her grandad should know well how much of a fight she has to put in at the University. Hmmm. I adored the whole scene with Evangeline & Lottie. The friendship between Evangeline & Clara seemed super special!! And you could just see from their words, the love they had for each other. I need a friend who makes clothes 👀🤣

Im jealous of her room on the ship. Like yo. I need a luxury trip like that. I also really enjoyed the bond Clara formed with Amina! Two peas in a pod sticking together!! I also had dislike to Henry with hopes for him to grow on me as we got further in.

Liz does not hold back when it comes to vivid descriptions and im totally here for it - every single time. One that will remain my favourite is "The full moon shines above me, its light rippling across the Atlantic Ocean. Stars twinkle in the clear, dark sky as the vast ocean moves in quiet serenity. I sit in a silence so loud, yet I don’t feel alone.I look up at the stars—the universe staring back—and think of all of those who have done the same centuries before. I feel the presence of thousands of years of civilizations that crossed this same ocean. And for a brief moment, I feel infinite." I'm just like damn. Can I see that please and feel that. 👀

I totally absorbed this book, before I knew it, I was 50% in at 1am, and I didn't want to stop reading. The twists and turns totally pulled at my heartstrings and my anxiety was at like a million? But omg. 👀 And Henry finally did start growing on me at around this mark also.

The twist towards the end hurt my soul 😮‍💨😭 omg!! I surprisingly loved this book and I'm hoping for a book 2!!

[Alexus · Rating 3 out of 5]

First, I’d like to thank Liz Molloy, the publishers, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read The Olympian Artifacts in advance!

The historical fiction of this novel was showcased through Greek mythology and included a unique twist of fantasy with the magical element of the artifacts from the golden chest that the characters found along their brief archaeological journey into the Mediterranean. What I appreciated most about this novel was the author’s strong emphasis of the struggles and hardships women have faced throughout time to gain equality, especially during the twentieth century. This novel exemplified this numerous times through Clara, the main female character, and her interactions with her male colleagues at Oxford and with her father’s condescension, as well as with the seamstress’ challenges of being a business owner in London in 1924. This novel was heavily plot driven with Clara and Henry, the main male character, responding quickly to the predicament of finding the Olympian artifacts and needing to travel back to England quickly to find sanctuary from threatening treasure hunters.

The novel referenced an academic rivalry between Clara and Henry numerous times, however, as the story progressed it appeared more like academic acquaintances that knew of one another during their time studying at Oxford instead of being academic rivals. Unfortunately, I found the writing to be a bit stilted, rigid and formal, with the conversations between characters awkward and too polite. Although that might be indicative of English high society of the early twentieth century, the conversations between Clara and the other characters seemed a bit odd. It improved as the story progressed, especially between Clara and Henry, but some parts were still awkward to read. Additionally, while there was immense build up to Clara and Henry being confronted by Dr. Richard (the antagonist) for the Olympian artifacts, the final scene felt a bit anticlimactic and fell short based on such a large portion of the novel building up to this moment. Finally, the writing was more telling instead of showing where the author would describe the characters’ emotions and provide internal ruminations of Clara’s thoughts rather than showing the readers these descriptions.

Despite these few issues, I enjoyed this novel and would read a sequel or another literary work by this author.

[Danielle Mitchell]

Thank you to Olive Press and NetGalley for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

The synopsis of this story offered all the ingredients of a book that I would readily devour – academia, a journey to uncover the Seven Wonders of the World, high stakes, a romantic subplot. Very Tomb Raider vibes, Count me in.

The story felt like it took a while to get going, until about the 30% mark, but after this point, I then found after putting it down that I was finding excuses to get back to it so I could find out happened next.

It felt like the author laid a lot of groundwork only to then not deliver a payoff for the reader. For example, the first third of the book was the build-up for the promised trip to the Seven Wonders of the world only to visit one and upon discovery of the Artefacts, the trip is cut short (the synopsis seemed to indicate more involvement from the other wonders of the world, something I was looking forward to reading).

The characters felt well-developed and for me were a highlight of the book, but the relationship between the MMC and the FMC seemed to want to deliver an enemy-to-lovers storyline, but the enemy never surfaced, nor seemed to make sense. Rather a case of a misunderstanding between these two characters. That being said by the end of the book I was really enjoying their relationship.

Overall, the tale being told had potential but perhaps was not given time or space to ‘breathe’. Having finished the book, I was left wanting more – not meaning future stories but the untapped potential of the story. Could multiple points of view have been used effectively here with the characters across different geographical locations?

A lot of these hiccups unfortunately detracted from my ability to fully immerse myself in the book.

All the above being said, it was a quick easy read for me, a palette cleanser if you will (somebody used to reading doorstop-sized fantasies) and I am intrigued, given the ending of the book, to return and read any more from this series.

[Becca · Rating 3 out of 5]

The olympian artefacts is a great concept, perfect concept for fans of The Mummy or Indiana Jones, expect it’s Greek-Mythology. Which I love!

I actually think it would make a great movie.

It’s well researched and put together. However despite being a quick read, I just didn’t feel myself grabbing the book to finish it. The dialogue and inner monologue was forgettable, it was fine just nothing particularly exciting or compelling. With 0 chemistry with the romantic interest. Probably why with the right actors and dialogue I could see it having such potential as a movie.

My biggest criticism is the modern lense of which the treatment of women was given, was really heavy handed and unnecessary in my opinion. We don’t need to be reminded at every turn how badly women were treated. Especially given the audience for this book is generally going to be female (and not idiots) there was no need to be so heavy handed.

My favourite relationship was probably between our fmc Clara and her grandfather who raised her. Not your usual set up and I liked the set up.

Back to the romantic interest, I feel like it was trying to set up an enemies to lovers subplot but it just wasn’t. They weren’t remotely enemies for a start. And it’s not about the lack of spice, you can have a 0 spice book with loads of sexual tension. It was more for fans of a sweet sort of romance I think.

I wish the author the best with the rest of the series and hope that this book finds its audience that loves it.

Thank you to netgalley and the publishers for the opportunity to review the book before it is published

[Beth Szerdy · Rating 2 out of 5]

This review is for the EARC I received from NetGalley, Liz Molloy, and Olive Press Publishing. Please keep that in mind while reading this review as the final publication may differ from what I read.

The Olympian Artifacts is a first person narrative following Clara, a young woman with aspirations to be a renown archeologist. She discovers three long-lost artifacts imbued with powers by the Olympic gods and races across Europe to protect them from those who would use them for power.

The premise of this book really drew me in, but the story fell flat for me. There’s a lot of filler - what pants she’s getting, long and repetitive descriptions of her trying to figure out how she feels about something rather than the author giving us enough detail to understand what’s happening. When the author uses history and Greek mythology in the story, it’s well-done, but it almost feels like an afterthought most of the time. There’s also a lot of missed opportunity to build suspense both in the romantic relationship that develops throughout the story and with the characters Clara interacts with.

This book also needs a few more rounds of editing, both developmental and line/copy editing to keep the reader from dropping out of the story with typos/incorrect use of words/phrases and plot holes.

I think the author is onto a great premise here, but it lacks the voice and methods of an experienced writer or editing team.

[A.S. Matzke · Rating 4 out of 5]

*Review based on ARC Copy received from Publisher through NetGalley*

4.4/5 Stars

Clara’s journey from, dare I say, girl to woman, is amazing to read. She starts off as small minded and only caring about her immediate surroundings. She mentions how she feels the world is unfair to women quite a bit, and even looks down on men because of it. As the story continues, she is pushed outside of her comfort zone and becomes a woman who is not only courageous, but selfless and willing to do whatever it takes to do the right thing.

I loved how much character development our main cast received and it was done exceptionally well. It not only affected how every character reacted to varying situations, but it also affected personal relationships as well. Every characters’ motivation is clear and is true to who they are. I appreciate how the romance is within the constraints of the time period and not breaking the story in that regard. The magic system, along with all of the history used in this novel, is made very easy to digest and it not cumbersome/bringing the story down.

My only criticism is that, after a while, some plot beats were predictable. You knew as soon as our characters were separated something was going to happen - it was simple a matter of when and what. Otherwise, I genuinely enjoyed this book and am excited to see what happens next in the series - including if we stay with the Greek Pantheon or play around with others as well.

[Astrid · Rating 2 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley, Liz Molley, and Olive Press Publishing for the EARC. As someone who loves history and Greek mythology, this premise immediately caught my attention. There’s definitely a strong idea at the core here, and I really wanted to love this.

The story follows Clara, an aspiring archaeologist who discovers powerful artifacts tied to the Olympian gods and travels across Europe to protect them. It’s a fun concept, and the moments where the book leans into the mythology and history are actually really interesting.

Unfortunately, I struggled to stay engaged and ended up not finishing towards the end of the book. The biggest issue for me was how repetitive the writing felt. There’s a lot of focus on small details or Clara overthinking things, and certain descriptions (especially facial expressions) come back over and over again. It slowed the story down quite a bit.
I also didn’t fully click with the first-person narration—it made everything feel a bit stuck in the same tone. The theme of women in academia is important and relevant, but it was repeated so often that it started to lose its impact for me.

On top of that, there are moments where the story could have built more tension, both in the plot and in character relationships, but doesn’t quite get there.
Overall, I do think there’s a solid idea here, but it could really benefit from some extra editing and tightening. With a bit more fine-tuning, this could be a much stronger and more engaging book.

[Ulrike · Rating 4 out of 5]

Clara Fairfax has completed her studies in history and archaeology at Oxford, but in 1924 she is denied the opportunity to pursue a doctorate simply because she is a woman. A long-held dream finally comes within reach when she joins her grandfather and three other scholars on a five-month expedition to the excavation sites of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. However, during a stopover in Crete, Clara unexpectedly becomes the keeper of powerful ancient artefacts and must do everything in her power to keep them out of the wrong hands.
Clara’s inner world, her decisions, and her experiences are portrayed in great detail and with a strong sense of atmosphere. I especially appreciated her calm and rational perspective, which offers a refreshing contrast to more impulsive or emotionally erratic fantasy heroines. I also enjoyed the consistently open and honest communication between the characters, which avoids artificial misunderstandings.
The author takes her time establishing the expedition and its likeable cast of characters before introducing a mythological fantasy element through the divine artefacts. From that point on, the story becomes noticeably more dynamic, dramatic—and romantic.
Overall, this was a very enjoyable and atmospheric read with a genuinely touching ending. However, readers should be aware that the pacing remains fairly slow throughout, and even moments of tension tend to resolve relatively quickly.

[Cozyhuddle · Rating 2 out of 5]

I received a free digital ARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

The premise had me sold immediately: Indiana Jones meets The Mummy, dropped into English high society. Artifact hunt across Europe, aristocratic drama, dangerous stakes. On paper this is exactly my thing.

In practice, it's a lot of tea and not a lot of adventure.

The pacing is slow right out of the gate, and we spend way more time than necessary inside Clara's head for scenes that don't need it (do I need the full play-by-play of a dressmaker visit? I do not). The dialogue often feels unfinished too, conversations cut short where they needed more, reactions and body language missing where they'd have done the heavy lifting.

But the real letdown is the "wild hunt across Europe" part of the pitch. There are maybe two moments of actual danger. The rest is mostly getting to know an American ballerina over tea. I came for artifact heist energy and got a slow burn tea party instead.

I liked the male lead, and there's chemistry with Clara, but I never got invested enough in the romance to care where it landed. The commentary on women's limited opportunities in this era is a good instinct, it's just delivered with a sledgehammer instead of woven in.

Genuinely interesting concept, well researched too. Just needed way more of the adventure it promised, and another editing pass before it's ready.

[Lisa Castore · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow! Equal parts riveting adventure and sweet romance.

Set in postwar 1920s England, this historical fantasy follows Oxford graduate Clara Fairfax as she joins her grandfather and fellow scholars on an expedition to uncover the Seven Ancient Wonders of the World. Along the way, a shocking discovery changes the course of their mission while a tender romance slowly unfolds.

Romantasy readers will love seeing familiar tropes delivered in a fresh way: enemies-to-lovers slow burn, forced proximity & fake dating with a one-bed situation, and morally gray characters who are protective (but not possessive). The pacing moves quickly, balancing adventure and romance in a way that makes this hard to put down. The world-building captures the charm of old England, high society opulence, and the thrill of archaeological expeditions without becoming overly dense.

While I would have loved a bit more depth to Henry’s arrogant side early on, Clara’s character arc is incredibly compelling. Watching her overcome insecurity and step into her brilliance as a woman in academia was deeply satisfying. The emotional payoff is where this story truly shines. The romantic tension is palpable, the grandfather-granddaughter relationship is heartwarming, and the ending is tragic, emotional, and empowering all at once.

Think Atlantis: The Lost Empire meets National Treasure with a touch of Murder on the Orient Express. Highly recommend for readers who love history, Greek mythology, women’s history, and archaeological adventures.

Thank you to Olive Press Publishing and Liz Molloy for the advanced copy. It was an absolute pleasure!

[Sarah's Bookish Pursuits · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Netgalley & Liz Molloy for this ARC! 

Overall, I enjoyed this book! I'm a sucker for anything involving Greek Mythology and especially a FMC in STEM. It did take me a while to get into the story, but I encourage you to power through the first few chapters; it is definitely worth the read! 

It was truly inspiring to see Clara step into her own power and confidence as the story progressed. She began under her grandfather's wing and was nervous to voice her opinions after being repeatedly told “no” in her academic pursuits. As the expedition and the resulting adventures continue, her determination and perseverance shine through. Her focus shifts from “what will I wear?” and “how should I act?” to “this is MY choice” and the realization that SHE controls the narrative - with or without the artifacts' power!

I loved the attraction between Clara and Henry! Molloy did a fabulous job at capturing that “butterflies in your stomach” feeling of a budding relationship forming! These two were so sweet, even when ignoring their feelings for each other at first. I wish we got more of their love story, though I understand that this is not the main focus of this book.

Overall, I give this a 4 out of 5 stars! 
When the rest of the series is published, I know I will be ready and waiting to read them! 

[Serendipity · Rating 1 out of 5]

First I want to thank NetGalley for this eARC in exchange for an honest review.

I don't understand how this book can be compared with Indiana Jones or The Mummy. The premise sounded good, but if you're looking for adventures, it lacks in that space.

The story is narrated by the protagonist, Clara, and the book is mostly her thoughts, feelings, and what assumptions and conclusions she makes, rather than facts. She's a privileged woman, which I am not that clear she went to Oxford because she's intelligent or just because her Grandad had the money and position to allow her to be accepted.

I was really enjoying the beginning of the book, despite the chapter of Clara trying in trousers that later seemed totally irrelevant. The expedition promised archeological adventure, but once the artifacts were found in such a random way, I started to feel disappointed, and the story just got worse from there.

Full of clichés to force the story that kept throwing me out of it. Unnecessary conversations and inner thoughts that made me want to put the book down. I had to push through to finish it, but at the end I really didn't care anymore about the story or characters.

It's a shame, as what could have been a great adventure, as the idea was actually good, ended up just being a boring succession of thoughts.

[Amber Hatcher · Rating 2 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley for this arc!!

The Olympian Artifacts follows Clara who is on a mission to be let into Oxford’s archeology program. Her biggest roadblock is the fact that she is a woman in the 1920s and society at this time is not used to seeing women in higher education let alone this field. To help plead her case, her grandfather, a renown archeologist, includes her on an expedition to visit the wonders of the world and attempt to find long lost artifacts. On one of their stops, Clara and her love interest Henry discover a chest that contains, you guessed it, Olympian artifacts. The artifacts give the wielder god-like powers and word gets out of this discovery. Clara and Henry are trying to stay out of reach from a dangerous artifact dealer that would stop at nothing to get his hands on this treasure.
I found the idea of the story to be interesting, but you lose the plot when most of the book is spent following Clara and Henry on the run and they keep hitting dead ends. I went into this book completely blind so I did enjoy when the magical element of the artifacts was introduced in what seemed to be more of a historical fiction; it was giving The Mummy vibes and I loved that. The ending was a little too predictable for me, but I’m glad we got a happy ending.

[Second Chapter Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

As soon as someone said this was Indiana Jones meets Divine Rivals, I knew I had to read it. After finishing it, I'd say that's a pretty accurate comparison.

This is historical fiction first, fantasy second. If sprawling fantasy worlds intimidate you but you've always wanted to dip your toes into the genre, this is exactly where I'd start. The fantasy is rooted in Greek mythology, so it feels familiar instead of overwhelming.

Clara was the kind of heroine I could immediately get behind. Watching her fight for a place in a world that keeps telling her "no" made it impossible not to cheer her on. Add in ancient artifacts, archaeological expeditions across Europe, rival academics forced to work together, and a touch of romance, and you've got a story that's hard to put down.

The historical setting is what really sold this book for me. It captures the excitement of the 1920s archaeological boom while weaving mythology into the adventure in a way that feels believable. I would have liked a little more depth in a few plot points, which is what kept this from being a five-star read, but I was invested from beginning to end.

If you're a historical fiction reader who's been curious about fantasy, this is the perfect bridge between the two. Think Indiana Jones with ancient Greek mythology, academic rivals, and just enough romance to keep the pages turning.

This is one I'll be recommending to customers looking for historical fiction that dares to do something a little different.

[lainey - laineysbooknook · Rating 5 out of 5]

YES YES YES

the sweetest book. an adventure. beautiful writing. I’m obsessed with this story and already want more.
Clara sets out on an expedition with her grandfather to uncover the locations of the seven ancient wonders of the world. She stumbles across three artifacts that change…everything. while trying to avoid the people hunting those artifacts, they’re pulled into another adventure entirely.

it’s a story about staying true to your values, what you’re willing to risk for the people you love, and for humanity as a whole. I loved how Clara’s voice as an activist is woven throughout the story; she’s pushing the boundaries of the limits placed on her and speaking up for women 🫶

the prose is gorgeous. I’ll forever be obsessed.

I loved Henry from the moment I met him. the way he supports Clara and her ambitions, especially as a woman in a deeply patriarchal society, meant everything. he owns his faults, acknowledges his blind spots… Henry the man you are.

Dr. Alarie, Baccar, her grandfather 🥲 the found family in this was so warm and joyful.

I would read another 300 pages of this in a heartbeat

[Alex Dold · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Olympian Artifacts by Liz Molloy turned out to be such a rewarding read. It began with a cosy, almost gentle tone, but gradually built into a much more exciting and gripping story, culminating in a truly satisfying ending.

One of the highlights for me was the historical fiction setting and the focus on a strong female protagonist navigating the challenges of academia. As a historian with a PhD, I particularly appreciated the portrayal of the difficulties women faced in pursuing university education—especially in male-dominated fields like archaeology and history. That element felt both authentic and compelling.

At first, I wasn’t sure the time period would fully work for me, as I usually gravitate toward eighteenth-century historical fiction. However, less than 20% into the book, I found myself completely drawn in and genuinely invested in the story.

I would highly recommend this to readers of historical fiction, classics, and mystery. It would also make a perfect summer read as it was easy to sink into on the beach while still offering depth and intrigue.

Definitely 5 stars from me. I thank the publisher and author for the advance copy via Netgalley.

[Isabella · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and Liz Molloy for providing me with an ARC.

I flew through this book. The chapters never felt overly long, which made it really easy to keep reading “just one more,” and I found myself getting invested very quickly.

One thing I especially loved was the discussion around artifacts and history. The idea of wondering who touched an object before us, who buried it, and how something can stay hidden underground for years before becoming someone else’s treasure is something I think about myself sometimes, so those parts really worked for me.

I also appreciated how the book touched on injustices against women and gender expectations throughout the story. It added another layer to the adventure aspect of the plot.

The main character felt caring and thoughtful from the beginning, especially in the way she thinks of her grandad before herself. That instantly made me connect with her emotionally.

The overall vibe felt like female Indiana Jones mixed with Agatha Christie, which made the mystery and treasure-hunting elements really fun. There were a few slower moments, but overall I still had a great time reading this and genuinely enjoyed the adventure.

[Diana Howard · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and Olive Press Publishing for giving me an advance copy.

I really enjoyed this book and I look forward to future books in this series. I hope all the heroines are as interesting and charming as Clara.
While the book has fantasy elements that make it intriguing, it's also based on historical events. Clara is every woman just looking to be treated fairly, her story both reminds me of how far women have come while at the same time realizing in some ways we haven't come far enough.
I really enjoyed the slow romance, even the yearning, that develops in this story. There is no spice, but in this story, it suits it well.
I'm a sucker for a story with found family, and for characters who put their love of their family over their own, ultimately making hard choices to do the right thing.
We really do cheer for Clara and I must admit shedding a tear or two.
Highly recommend for an entertaining reading The Divine New Woman Series is off to a great start!

[Reading . Current · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you @olivepress for accepting my request to read this, I just had to get my hands on this!

Clara Fairfax and her grandfather share a dream to see where the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World once stood and then excavate it. Their interactions are heartwarming especially as he's the father figure she didn’t have growing up.

As for Clara, she really embodies authenticity due in part to her intellectual ambition and more so, how she's treated as inferior for daring to be herself and to have goals. I really sympathise with how Clara is framed though it's relevant to the time period. I also love that we see her character growth, especially regarding Henry Ashford as she acknowledges that help isn’t a weakness and an academic rival can alter into a relationship.

The ending! My goodness I was kicking my feet in joy and am so excited that this isn’t the end of Clara's journey as this is the first book in the series.

[Helen · Rating 3 out of 5]

This historical fantasy is set in postwar 1920's England and follows Oxford graduate Clara Fairfax. Born into high society but is also a strong female protagonist, Clara rejects social expectations to pursue academia.

It’s a nice concept, and the moments where the book leans into the mythology and history are actually really really interesting. A romance blooms while a shocking discovery changes the course of their mission.

I also think this book would do well being marketed as a YA book. There were a few slower moments, but overall I still had a great time reading this and genuinely enjoyed the adventure.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.