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The Orfeo Saga #1
The Sword of Telemon
The Homeric "long-haired Achaeans" were part of the Mycenaean culture of Greece (1600 BC - 1100 BC). They were a Bronze Age people who were quite removed in time and culture from the Classical period (5th - 4th centuries BC). In this novel a young Achaean prince is captured in a raid. His younger brother Orfeo, and a group of warriors, are sent on a mission to look for him. Telemon, a legendary warrior, and Zurga, an elderly member of a group called the Wanderers, are soon joined by Clarice, a girl who is a master of disguise. To their dismay they find that the kidnapped prince has been made a galley slave and that the maritime power of Thera plans to conquer the entire Mediterranean. Can they avert disaster?
The story starts just before the eruption of Thera in about 1600 BC. This cataclysm destroyed the lavish Minoan culture of Crete. It also allowed the Mycenaeans to expand throughout the eastern Mediterranean. The Mycenaean culture - while originally warlike and rather rustic - developed vibrant cites, such as Pylos. This era was the setting for Homer's epic poems about the Trojan War (perhaps 12th or 11th century BC).
The story starts just before the eruption of Thera in about 1600 BC. This cataclysm destroyed the lavish Minoan culture of Crete. It also allowed the Mycenaeans to expand throughout the eastern Mediterranean. The Mycenaean culture - while originally warlike and rather rustic - developed vibrant cites, such as Pylos. This era was the setting for Homer's epic poems about the Trojan War (perhaps 12th or 11th century BC).
235 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 6, 2015
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
April 21, 2019
2.5 rounded to 3. Interesting, although clumsily written novel of Bronze Age Greece. Bildungsroman of Prince Orfeo who with stalwart friends searches for his elder brother, a galley slave in the evil empire of Thera, today called Santorini. The island is finally destroyed by a massive volcanic eruption. I was not immersed in the atmosphere of the story; why did the author use so many of today's non-Greek personal names? Why did the author give the gods Roman names, instead of Greek, e.g., Vulcan instead of Hephaistos?
July 4, 2017
Sooo boring. To be fair I did not finish this book. Made it a little more than halfway then I just couldn't do it anymore. Not enough dialogue.
July 8, 2017
A must read!
This was wonderful as a stand alone novel, but brought this small slice of history to life beautifully. Highly recommended!
This was wonderful as a stand alone novel, but brought this small slice of history to life beautifully. Highly recommended!
May 14, 2016
***This book was reviewed for the San Francisco Book Review****
Eiland's Sword of Telemon is the first in the four book Orfeo Saga. The story opens with Orfeo struggling to fit in upon returning to his family/tribe after having spent several years as a hostage in the city of Pylos. Shortly after the story opens, Orfeo’s brother Herron is taken as a slave by raiders.
Kiros, father of Orfeo and Herron, and King of the Achians (Achaeans), gathers the tribe at Delphi so that a plan of rescue may be formulated. In the end, Orfeo, the Wanderer known as Zurga, the hero Telemon (Telamon), and Telemon’s second, Orton, are despatched on a diplomatic mission to ransom Herron or buy him from the slavers. Along the way to Pylos, Orfeo begins lessons in swordplay with Telemon. Zurga, whose role as a Wanderer puts me in mind of the Druids, teaches Orfeo the wisdom of the Wanderers. Together, Zurga and Telemon polish Orfeo as a craftsman polishes and shapes a raw gem to reveal the brilliance hidden within.
Things don't go as planned with the retrieval, of course, and the group ends up tangling with a conquering people known as the Therans. Orfeo, accompanied by a young woman named Clarice, leaves the group to continue the search for the missing heir. Zurga, Telemon, Orton, and Nadahr, another Wanderer, recognise the danger the Therans pose, and remain behind to gather the various tribes together and begin arranging a defense against Theran incursion.
Orfeo and Clarice, traveling as entertainers, end up being invited to Thera by a man called Draik. Since they now believe Herron has been taken to Thera, they jump on the invitation and become contracted performers for Draik. For a while they are lulled into being at ease among the Therans, but that lasts only til things begin going south for the Therans in their war efforts. They seek scapegoats and turn on Draik, seeing his contributions to said war efforts as causing the failures. He is taken for treason, and the entertainer contracts he held are divvied up among the royals.
Orfeo and Clarice are nearly ready to abandon their search and flee Thera, when who does Clarice stumble upon, but Herron. Mission complete, they flee Thera just in time, as the volcanic island decides to blow a gasket. Even so, the ship they are fleeing on is destroyed in the ensuing tsunami. The story goes on to tell the fates of the major players, some rather surprising.
Fun stuff: I really enjoy historical novels that look at the events that may be the seeds to myth and legend, in this case, the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice. The supernatural elements are weeded out, leaving behind a story more realistically plausible. This story also provided a unique and different take on Thera, known today as Santorini- one place believed to have been fabled Atlantis. Orfeo and Clarice weather the fury of one of the most deadly volcano eruptions of the time, one that fair wiped out a civilisation.
Not so fun stuff: The story started a bit too slow for me. The prose can be flowy, and at times dip to the purple. I do feel that there is much that could be condensed or chopped entirely. The story needs another good proofing. There were a scattering of grammar and spelling errors, along with some inconsistencies. Two that really stick out in my mind are a description of Orfeo waking with his left hand clasping his left arm (O_O), and referencing both Zeus and Mars in regards to the same character. If they are Greeks, it would Ares instead of Mars. I have the same qualm about the use of Vulcan instead of Hephaestus. I also had a disagreement with some of the variant spellings (Achian/Achaean, Telemon/Telamon, Orfeo/Orpheus).
However, all that being said, Eiland’s Sword of Telemon, is a delightful sojourn to an ancient time. I loved it so much that I just bought the complete four book set. If you enjoy historical fiction, or Greek history and mythology, this book is sure to please. Come, walk with Orfeo as he finds himself and comes into his own, as a warrior, as a scholar, as a man of the Achaeans and a man apart from the Achaeans. This is a brilliant rendering of a classic myth, and a coming of age story easy to relate to, especially if you're a little on the eccentric side, like me! Orfeo must learn where he truly fits in given the vastly different experiences he’s had and doesn't always find it an easy thing to do.
Eiland's Sword of Telemon is the first in the four book Orfeo Saga. The story opens with Orfeo struggling to fit in upon returning to his family/tribe after having spent several years as a hostage in the city of Pylos. Shortly after the story opens, Orfeo’s brother Herron is taken as a slave by raiders.
Kiros, father of Orfeo and Herron, and King of the Achians (Achaeans), gathers the tribe at Delphi so that a plan of rescue may be formulated. In the end, Orfeo, the Wanderer known as Zurga, the hero Telemon (Telamon), and Telemon’s second, Orton, are despatched on a diplomatic mission to ransom Herron or buy him from the slavers. Along the way to Pylos, Orfeo begins lessons in swordplay with Telemon. Zurga, whose role as a Wanderer puts me in mind of the Druids, teaches Orfeo the wisdom of the Wanderers. Together, Zurga and Telemon polish Orfeo as a craftsman polishes and shapes a raw gem to reveal the brilliance hidden within.
Things don't go as planned with the retrieval, of course, and the group ends up tangling with a conquering people known as the Therans. Orfeo, accompanied by a young woman named Clarice, leaves the group to continue the search for the missing heir. Zurga, Telemon, Orton, and Nadahr, another Wanderer, recognise the danger the Therans pose, and remain behind to gather the various tribes together and begin arranging a defense against Theran incursion.
Orfeo and Clarice, traveling as entertainers, end up being invited to Thera by a man called Draik. Since they now believe Herron has been taken to Thera, they jump on the invitation and become contracted performers for Draik. For a while they are lulled into being at ease among the Therans, but that lasts only til things begin going south for the Therans in their war efforts. They seek scapegoats and turn on Draik, seeing his contributions to said war efforts as causing the failures. He is taken for treason, and the entertainer contracts he held are divvied up among the royals.
Orfeo and Clarice are nearly ready to abandon their search and flee Thera, when who does Clarice stumble upon, but Herron. Mission complete, they flee Thera just in time, as the volcanic island decides to blow a gasket. Even so, the ship they are fleeing on is destroyed in the ensuing tsunami. The story goes on to tell the fates of the major players, some rather surprising.
Fun stuff: I really enjoy historical novels that look at the events that may be the seeds to myth and legend, in this case, the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice. The supernatural elements are weeded out, leaving behind a story more realistically plausible. This story also provided a unique and different take on Thera, known today as Santorini- one place believed to have been fabled Atlantis. Orfeo and Clarice weather the fury of one of the most deadly volcano eruptions of the time, one that fair wiped out a civilisation.
Not so fun stuff: The story started a bit too slow for me. The prose can be flowy, and at times dip to the purple. I do feel that there is much that could be condensed or chopped entirely. The story needs another good proofing. There were a scattering of grammar and spelling errors, along with some inconsistencies. Two that really stick out in my mind are a description of Orfeo waking with his left hand clasping his left arm (O_O), and referencing both Zeus and Mars in regards to the same character. If they are Greeks, it would Ares instead of Mars. I have the same qualm about the use of Vulcan instead of Hephaestus. I also had a disagreement with some of the variant spellings (Achian/Achaean, Telemon/Telamon, Orfeo/Orpheus).
However, all that being said, Eiland’s Sword of Telemon, is a delightful sojourn to an ancient time. I loved it so much that I just bought the complete four book set. If you enjoy historical fiction, or Greek history and mythology, this book is sure to please. Come, walk with Orfeo as he finds himself and comes into his own, as a warrior, as a scholar, as a man of the Achaeans and a man apart from the Achaeans. This is a brilliant rendering of a classic myth, and a coming of age story easy to relate to, especially if you're a little on the eccentric side, like me! Orfeo must learn where he truly fits in given the vastly different experiences he’s had and doesn't always find it an easy thing to do.
February 27, 2016
The world of ancient Greece, long before what has been classified as the Classical Era, was a complex world of tribal wars and unsettled peace. Into this world, Orfeo, the second son of an Achian king, makes his mark and places himself into a world where legends are made. Sent out to rescue his captured older brother, Herron, the heir, Orfeo, once a slave himself, projects himself to great heights, maturing as an accomplished warrior, diplomat, learned scholar and entertainer.
The adventures of Orfeo take him on lengthy journeys, extensive battles and to the very militant and isolated island nation of Thera, where he meets his biggest challenge, the temptation of a beautiful princess. It is in recognizing her true nature, embedded in the selfishness of her people, that Orfeo finds himself and his true course. He realizes that Clarice, his companion and fellow conspirator, is more desirable as a lifetime partner and, upon this profound enlightenment, he stumbles upon his brother, now a galley slave, injured and with a deep angry hate for his younger brother.
Orfeo stays the course and rescues his brother. It was the noble thing to do; it was what he had promised his father he would do. Another great battle and the man of legend makes a bigger name for himself, earning more respect. The legend of Orfeo doesn’t end with the final battle. There are more to come, but the author has saved the other stories for another day.
Murray Lee Eiland Jr has written a riveting tale based on the Greek legends of the great leader, Orfeo. “The Sword of Telemon: The Orfeo Saga Book One” is an historic adventure set in the early days of Greek history. It is also a coming-of-age story as it traces the growing maturity of a young man, Orfeo, who was once, as a child, sold into slavery. The author has a real knack for making history come alive as the characters are infused with great elements of humanity, both good and bad. The various settings are clearly described so the reader feels a part of the story. The plot moves at a compelling pace and the reader feels driven to follow along with both interest and intrigue. A great read. Well done.
Reviewed for Readers' Favorite: https://readersfavorite.com
The adventures of Orfeo take him on lengthy journeys, extensive battles and to the very militant and isolated island nation of Thera, where he meets his biggest challenge, the temptation of a beautiful princess. It is in recognizing her true nature, embedded in the selfishness of her people, that Orfeo finds himself and his true course. He realizes that Clarice, his companion and fellow conspirator, is more desirable as a lifetime partner and, upon this profound enlightenment, he stumbles upon his brother, now a galley slave, injured and with a deep angry hate for his younger brother.
Orfeo stays the course and rescues his brother. It was the noble thing to do; it was what he had promised his father he would do. Another great battle and the man of legend makes a bigger name for himself, earning more respect. The legend of Orfeo doesn’t end with the final battle. There are more to come, but the author has saved the other stories for another day.
Murray Lee Eiland Jr has written a riveting tale based on the Greek legends of the great leader, Orfeo. “The Sword of Telemon: The Orfeo Saga Book One” is an historic adventure set in the early days of Greek history. It is also a coming-of-age story as it traces the growing maturity of a young man, Orfeo, who was once, as a child, sold into slavery. The author has a real knack for making history come alive as the characters are infused with great elements of humanity, both good and bad. The various settings are clearly described so the reader feels a part of the story. The plot moves at a compelling pace and the reader feels driven to follow along with both interest and intrigue. A great read. Well done.
Reviewed for Readers' Favorite: https://readersfavorite.com
January 3, 2017
Orfeo, a prince and the younger brother to the king's heir, is ransomed as a young boy to a neighboring kingdom. Raised in the teachings of a wise philosopher, he eventually escapes and returns home in shame, having broken a treaty as well has having become too much like his captors in mannerisms and thinking. Having little contact with his royal family, Orfeo lives the life of a lowly shepherd. But when his brother, the heir, is captured and believed to have been forced into slavery, Zurga, a respected advisor, persuades the king to include Orfeo in the search party.
Orfeo and Zurga join forces with Telemon, a mighty warrior, and Orton, Telemon's trusted fighting companion. Together, the four journey to Pylos, in hopes of returning with the heir.
Murray Lee Ieland Jr.'s The Sword of Telemon, book one in the Orfeo Saga, is a gripping novel. Set in ancient Greece, and interspersed with cameos of myths, legends, and historical events, this is an enticing read which builds in intensity as the story progresses. With a genuinely flawed cast of characters, the author regales readers with a tale of honor and courage, in which an unlikely band of brothers learn they all can benefit from the wisdom and experience of the others in their group. Philosophers and poets join forces with fierce warriors in this compelling story that won't soon be forgotten.
Orfeo and Zurga join forces with Telemon, a mighty warrior, and Orton, Telemon's trusted fighting companion. Together, the four journey to Pylos, in hopes of returning with the heir.
Murray Lee Ieland Jr.'s The Sword of Telemon, book one in the Orfeo Saga, is a gripping novel. Set in ancient Greece, and interspersed with cameos of myths, legends, and historical events, this is an enticing read which builds in intensity as the story progresses. With a genuinely flawed cast of characters, the author regales readers with a tale of honor and courage, in which an unlikely band of brothers learn they all can benefit from the wisdom and experience of the others in their group. Philosophers and poets join forces with fierce warriors in this compelling story that won't soon be forgotten.
December 3, 2015
I ended up reading this one a little backwards as I had read book 2 first (without realizing it) and loved it so much I ended up buying all of them. It was fun to go backwards with The Sword of Telemon and get some insight on some of the characters such as Orfeo, Zurga and Clarice. This is a faced and entirely intriguing adventure that is exceptionally written and has top notch character development.
Each character brings their own style and characteristics to an already entertaining story. I loved the interactions and connection the author was able to achieve relatively quickly with the reader and each and every character. There are these story-tellers that have a way with words, with vivid descriptions and a certain kind of cadence that moves the story forward with ease. And this guy had the goods. I am jumping into the next!
Each character brings their own style and characteristics to an already entertaining story. I loved the interactions and connection the author was able to achieve relatively quickly with the reader and each and every character. There are these story-tellers that have a way with words, with vivid descriptions and a certain kind of cadence that moves the story forward with ease. And this guy had the goods. I am jumping into the next!
October 10, 2015
"The Sword of Telemon" is a fantastic piece of historical fiction. I know very little about the region and the time period the author was writing about so it was wonderfully educational to me as well. The book is very exciting and beautifully described. The plot is very well paced and does not drag on or misdirect the reader with unbelievable plot twists. Eiland could teach a master class on character development. Every single character is believable and uses dialogue that does not seem forced or unnatural. I am definitely looking forward to reading more of the Orfeo Saga books.
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August 13, 2016The main character in The Sword of Telemon, is called Orfeo. He is written clearly and so finely drawn that it is easy to care about him and what happens to his life. I enjoyed the visit to another time in history. The story is informative as well as entertaining.
October 8, 2015
Solid book. Wished it was longer, but I understand it's the first in the series. Will be reading the next one for sure.
September 15, 2016
I liked the story in this book. It is very interesting and has good characters.
October 26, 2016
We are proud to announce that THE SWORD OF TELEMON (The Orfeo saga book 1) by Murray Eiland is a B.R.A.G.Medallion Honoree. This tells a reader that this book is well worth their time and money!
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews