Hoplite: Torch of Prometheus

by Michael Pritsos

Eighteen years into the Peloponnesian War between Athens and Sparta finds a Devanian soldier named Maxites flung into the catastrophic events of war and destiny. Torch of Prometheus is a historical fiction novel taking place in Greece nearly two and a half millennia ago. Torch of Prometheus begins in 413 B.C. Maxites is a twenty-year old warrior of the fictional town of Devanum, sworn allegiance to the Athenian League, and is eager to join the war between an advanced Athens and bloodthirsty Sparta. Devanum is able to send out a small force of men to aid the Athenians, led by Maxites' oldest brother Dioxiphos. In a string of bloody battles, conversations with the gods, an untimely marriage, journeys on land and voyages by sea, Maxites must learn to deal with bonds forged and severed, what the difference is between Athenians and Spartans, the truth of his past, and the loss of those he loves.

340 pages, Paperback

First published February 15, 2008

About the author

Michael Pritsos studied English with emphases in both Literature and Creative Writing at Arizona State University and Northern Arizona University. After serving in the U.S. Marine Corps, Michael returned to A.S.U. to complete his Bachelors in English as well as two additional Masters degrees in Criminal Justice and Emergency Management/Homeland Security. His 4th novel, Fracture, is the second book in a heroic fantasy series entitled The Sovereign. He currently teaches in Central Arizona where he lives with his wife and 2 children.

Reviews

[Juli Pritsos · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hoplite takes the imagination of fiction and creatively weaves history in this honest account of Maxites and his life. The author does a fine job of using this character in his youthful language to tell the story of his younger years and his account with war during war time. The story is engaging, thoughtful and often riveting. It is clear that the author writes with a great deal of emotion, often leaving a little of himself on the pages.