Just in time for beach season, the ‘Fantastic Greek Summer Reads: The Greece in Me’ box set is available on Amazon for 6.99.

The eBook bundle features three books: ‘Chasing Athens’ by Marissa Tejada, a romantic comedy/women’s fiction novel; ‘Girl Gone Greek’ by Rebecca Hall, a coming of age/contemporary women’s fiction novel; and ‘Greek Expectations: The Last Moussaka Standing’ by Ekaterina Botziou; a Greek life guide/memoir.

Each book in the collection tells an inspiring story in which Greece is integral to the setting and also proves to be an important “character” in each book.

 

For more from the author visit: www.chasingathens.com

Touching on the expat experience, Tejada tells a fantastic story of heartbreak and self-discovery to define the meaning of home…

Uncertain of her future after a heart-breaking split, American expat Ava Martin throws herself into the thick of Athenian reality and soon discovers that the tumultuous, culture rich Mediterranean country is coloring her life in a way no place else can, changing her forever.

What people are saying...

"The imagery of the setting is lavishly graphic, from the blend of ancient and modern architecture, crystal blue waters, and breath-taking island views to the tumultuous streets due to economic distress."

"When was the last time you searched for a new book only to find yourself drawn into it so quickly that you could not put the book down? Somehow I have a feeling this will become a classic traveller story."

"Chasing Athens is a fantastic story of heartbreak, self-discovery and finding love again. I really loved how Marissa depicted Athens so that it came alive for the reader."

For more from the author visit: www.lifebeyondbordersblog.com

A tale of self-discovery and realisation that home and belonging don't necessarily have to be your birthplace…

When Rachel moved to Greece to escape a life of social conformity, she found a country of unconventional characters and economic turmoil. The last thing she expected was to fall in love with the chaos that reigned about her.

What people are saying...

“It is really refreshing to read something that is a love story, but not between the typical man and women but through friendships and a love of a country.”

“The author’s writing style helps the narrative flow, resulting in a quick, light yet delightfully fun read. I feel like I am right there with Rachel, seeing what she sees and feeling what she feels.”

“A sensitive tale of a fairly naive young lady whose eyes are opened to a different culture and different ways of life as she ventures to live in the warmth and blue skies of a Mediterranean village.”

For more from the author visit: www.ekaterinabotziou.com

Part memoir, part rant, part survival guide. A witty cautionary tale of Greek love and life…

Growing up in a semi-Greek household, Ekaterina Botziou spent much of her childhood defying her father's wishes for her to learn to play the bouzouki, and refusing third helpings of moussaka. Unfortunately, Zeus had other ideas and in a twist of fate some years later, Ekaterina found herself married to a Greek-Cypriot and battling against the stale old laws of Greek tradition.

What people are saying...

“I have never laughed so much. It was almost like Ekaterina was writing about me! Congratulations Ekaterina on a well written book that will make Greeks/Cypriots and anybody else in the world laugh. It's a great medicine.”

“Such a fantastic read, it had me laughing all the way through! Coming from a multicultural background myself, I could relate to many of the crazy family experiences recounted in the book.”

“Ekaterina Boziou has a sharp, critical eye and an amazing sense of humour which make up a refreshing, witty, passionate, original and inventive narrative.”

For the UK Amazon site: click here.

For the US Amazon site: click here.

In his new book, Billy Cotsis explores 36 Hellenic kingdoms, territories, empires and a fiefdom to demonstrate the extent of the Greek world. From Pyrrhus to Cyprus covers the period following the end of the Alexandrian empire to the fall of the Byzantine Empire in 1453. Added to the mix are a number of independent Greek entities which existed during and post Ottoman times. The book has a twist and a connector in that it is told by a fictional Thucydides, who has managed to survive for an eternity thanks to a spell cast by Apollo. This is his tribute to the brilliance of Thucydides as the first ever historian who truly presented primary facts with minimal bias.

Why From Pyrrhus to Cyprus matters?

The Greek world was never about mainland Greece, it was always much bigger… The Hellenes travelled in search of colonies, new territories and empires. They founded hundreds of colonies and territories in the Mediterranean, Black Sea, Africa and Asia. A number of these survive to this day, with many of its inhabitants speaking a dialect of Greek and maintaining differing aspects of Hellenic culture. It is important that we never forget how far the Hellenes were able to reach and in many cases directly rule vast territories far beyond the Greek heartland. This book therefore brings you an overview of 36 identified Greek “territories,” after the disintegration of the empire built up by Alexander the Great. Starting with Pyrrhus, the king of Epiros, the book also provides an overview of the conquests of Alexander and the Hellenistic Age, Byzantine Empire, Trebizond, Ionian Republic and many more. These many more include the fascinating Indo-Greek Kingdom, which is the furthest point for the Greek conquerors, Empire of Nicaea which was the only Greek empire to retire without being subjugated, the independence of Samos and Icaria, the will of Crete and the creation of a fiefdom in the Crimea.

This book would not exist without the generous support of the Hellenic Club of Sydney.

 

 

Billy Cotsis was first published in 1995 in the Greek media in Sydney. Since then he has featured in dozens of publications in four continents and is the author of over 100 articles. In 2013 he began developing short film projects and they are listed below. His first book was the acclaimed, “The Many Faces of Hellenic Culture,” and he occasionally delivers a lecture series on Greek communities.

Billy can also be found on MerakiTV and is a member of a Community Board.

All this work is undertaken as a hobby and to promote interest in his true love, Greek history and satire. His second book has been out since February 2017 and he is currently developing a new book.

Having lived in London and Greece, he has travelled extensively over the years and can be found on www.herculean.wordpress.com

An avid Manchester United and Canterbury Bulldogs fan, sport is something he enjoys but is not actually good at.

Do you want to learn how to speak Greek? This book will help you to understand and express the basics quickly and successfully. Designed and written for electronic devices, Eleni’s GREEK PHRASE BOOK is the perfect easy-to-use resource for anyone working in or traveling to Greece.

The Most Convenient Addition To Your Device When

Note, American spelling and vocabulary is used throughout, however, some common British words have also been included for our UK and other international readers.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Step into the enchanting world of Symi, where every cobblestone street whispers tales of tradition and every sun-kissed corner beckons with warmth and hospitality. In “The Magical Café of Symi Island,” a captivating children’s book penned by Thalia Laughlin and Mark Christou, readers of all ages are invited on an unforgettable journey through the heart of this idyllic Greek island.

Born from a deep love and appreciation for the vibrant community of Symi, “The Magical Café of Symi Island” is a heartfelt tribute to the island’s rich culture, timeless beauty, and unwavering sense of community. Inspired by the authors’ own experiences and encounters with the island’s charming inhabitants, the story follows the adventures of Maroula’s café, a beloved gathering place where locals and visitors alike come together to share stories, laughter, and delicious treats. As the pages come alive with vivid illustrations and whimsical storytelling, readers are transported to Maroula’s café, where they meet a cast of characters inspired by real-life Symi residents.

 

From Maroula, the warm and welcoming café owner, to Georgios, the jolly vegetable seller, Andonis, the cheerful fisherman, and, of course, Papou Giannis with his unique stories of Symi’s past, each character embodies the unique spirit of Symi and its people. Through their interactions and adventures, readers are introduced to the timeless traditions, mouthwatering cuisine, and captivating culture that define life on this picturesque island.

“The Magical Café of Symi Island” is more than just a children’s book; it’s a celebration of the beauty, warmth, and magic that make Symi a truly special place. With its immersive storytelling and breathtaking illustrations, the book offers readers a window into the heart and soul of the island, inviting them to explore its hidden treasures and timeless traditions. From the sun-soaked streets and bustling markets to the tranquil shores and azure waters, every page is a feast for the senses, capturing the essence of Symi in all its splendor.

 

As you turn the pages, you’ll find yourself instantly transported to the island, filled with a sense of warmth and belonging that only this enchanting place can offer. With every word and illustration, your wanderlust awakens and leaves you dreaming of your next adventure to this idyllic Greek paradise.

About the Authors

Thalia Laughlin, a nomadic author with a passion for art and literature, draws upon her background in musicology and art therapy to craft stories that ignite the imagination and inspire creativity. Mark Christou, a longtime resident of Symi, brings his firsthand knowledge and love for the island to the pages of the book, infusing it with authenticity and warmth. Together, they have created a timeless tale that captures the spirit of Symi and invites readers to experience its magic for themselves.

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To purchase the book, please click HERE!

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Learning Greek can be a rewarding experience, and one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the language is through reading. Here are five books by Greek authors that are easy to read and perfect for those who are new to the language.





1. "Ο Μικρός Πρίγκιπας" by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry (Greek Translation)



While not originally by a Greek author, the Greek translation of "The Little Prince" is a great starting point for language learners. The story's simple language and enchanting illustrations make it accessible and enjoyable. This beloved classic offers a gentle introduction to Greek vocabulary and sentence structure.

2. "Η Τελευταία Μαύρη Γάτα" by Eugenios Trivizas



Eugenios Trivizas is a popular children's author known for his imaginative stories. "Η Τελευταία Μαύρη Γάτα" (The Last Black Cat) is a charming tale with a simple plot and clear language. Although it's a children's book, its themes and humor appeal to readers of all ages, making it a great tool for language learning.

3. "Ο Μεγάλος Περίπατος του Πέτρου" by Alki Zei


"Ο Μεγάλος Περίπατος του Πέτρου" (Petros' Great Walk) by Alki Zei is a touching story set during World War II, seen through the eyes of a young boy named Petros. The straightforward narrative and historical context provide a compelling and accessible read for language learners, helping them gain insight into both the language and Greek history.

4. "Ένα Παιδί Μετράει τα Άστρα" by Menelaos Lountemis



"Ένα Παιδί Μετράει τα Άστρα" (A Child Counts the Stars) by Menelaos Lountemis is a beautifully written coming-of-age story about a boy's journey of self-discovery and dreams. The poetic and evocative language makes it a rewarding read for those learning Greek, offering both literary and cultural enrichment.

5. "Έγκλημα στο Κολωνάκι" by Giannis Maris



"Έγκλημα στο Κολωνάκι" (Crime in Kolonaki) by Giannis Maris is a captivating mystery novel set in one of Athens' most prestigious neighborhoods. The intriguing plot and well-developed characters make it an engaging read. Maris' clear and concise language is ideal for those looking to improve their Greek while enjoying a thrilling story.

Tips for Reading in Greek

1. Start with Translations: Beginning with translated works like "Ο Μικρός Πρίγκιπας" can make the transition easier, as you're already familiar with the story.

2. Use a Dictionary: Keep a Greek-English dictionary handy to look up unfamiliar words and expand your vocabulary.

3. Take Notes: Jot down new words and phrases as you read. This helps reinforce learning and makes it easier to remember.

4. Read Aloud: Pronouncing words out loud can improve your speaking skills and help you become more comfortable with Greek pronunciation.

5. Practice Regularly: Consistency is key. Try to read a little bit every day to steadily improve your language skills.

Diving into Greek literature is an enriching way to deepen your understanding of the language and culture. These five books are excellent starting points that will make your learning journey enjoyable and engaging. Happy reading!

In a world often fixated on perfection, The King's Special Spice offers a refreshing perspective for both children and adults. This bilingual children’s book, beautifully written in Greek and English by Yulie Archontaki, tells the whimsical tale of a king whose obsession with perfection leads him on a journey of discovery and growth.

The story revolves around a king who demands that everything be perfect—especially his food, which is always seasoned with his beloved spice, Berbere. But when the spice fails to arrive one day, chaos ensues. The king's servants, rather than succumbing to despair, showcase their creativity and problem-solving skills, demonstrating that there are countless ways to achieve greatness. Through the eyes of various characters, including the cook, the gardener, and the horse keeper, readers learn that perfection isn't found in a single ingredient but in the rich tapestry of experiences and solutions that life offers.

As children are gently lulled to sleep by the rhythm of the narrative, adults awaken to the deeper message that perfection is not a destination but a journey filled with variety and unexpected outcomes. This book not only entertains but also imparts valuable lessons about resilience, teamwork, and embracing life’s imperfections.

Yulie Archontaki is a remarkable author whose diverse background enriches her storytelling. Born and raised in Greece, Yulie's journey has taken her across the globe, from the UK and the USA to her recent return to Greece after a decade in Los Angeles. With an impressive educational background that includes an M.F.A. in Physical Theater and a Postgraduate Diploma in Architecture, Yulie's multifaceted experiences shape her unique approach to literature and teaching.

As the founder of the Hellenic Academy Theatre Department, Yulie has dedicated herself to educating children about the Greek language through the arts. Her innovative teaching style incorporates puppetry and theatrical techniques, engaging young minds and fostering a love for storytelling.

Her passion for storytelling extends beyond the classroom; Yulie has authored and illustrated two books, including The King's Special Spice, which was staged in 2022 under her direction. Her other work, The Diary of a Weird Child, has also made waves as a short animated film traveling to festivals worldwide. As an accomplished actor and member of The Actors’ Gang, she has collaborated with renowned theater productions and received accolades for her performances.

The King's Special Spice is not just a book; it's an invitation to explore the beauty of imperfection and the myriad of solutions that life presents. Yulie Archontaki’s heartfelt narrative and engaging characters serve as a reminder that greatness can be achieved in countless ways.

As readers turn the pages of this delightful bilingual tale, they are encouraged to let go of the constraints of perfection and instead embrace the diversity and richness that come with life's challenges. This enchanting story is a perfect addition to any child’s library, offering lessons that resonate long after the last page is turned.

In a world that often pressures us to strive for flawlessness, The King's Special Spice celebrates the journey of self-discovery and creativity. It is a heartwarming reminder that sometimes, the most meaningful experiences come from the unexpected twists and turns of life.

To explore more about Yulie Archontaki and her inspiring work, visit her website. Embrace the journey and let the flavors of life unfold!

The works of ancient Greek philosophers have shaped the foundations of Western philosophy, science, and ethics. Reading about their lives and ideas not only offers a glimpse into their genius but also provides timeless insights into human nature and society. Here’s a list of must-read books, both original works and modern commentaries, about the most famous Greek philosophers, translated into English.

• Key Work: The Republic
  Plato’s The Republic remains a cornerstone of political philosophy and ethics. This dialogue examines justice, governance, and the nature of the ideal state. Translations by Benjamin Jowett or newer ones like those by Allan Bloom are particularly respected.

• Additional Recommendations:
  • Plato: Complete Works, edited by John M. Cooper, compiles all of Plato’s dialogues, including The Symposium and Phaedrus, which explore love, rhetoric, and the soul.

• Key Work: Nicomachean Ethics
  Aristotle’s exploration of the “good life” through virtue ethics is a profound guide to personal and moral development. Terence Irwin's translation is particularly well-regarded.

• Additional Recommendations:
  • Metaphysics: This work delves into the nature of being and reality, offering insight into Aristotle's philosophical system.
  • Politics: Essential reading for understanding governance, citizenship, and Aristotle’s vision of the ideal state.

• Key Work: Apology by Plato
  This dialogue portrays Socrates’ defense during his trial, embodying his commitment to truth and philosophy. It’s a gripping introduction to his ideas and personality.

• Other Sources:
  • Xenophon’s Memorabilia and Apology: These offer an alternative perspective on Socrates' teachings and trial.

• Key Work: The Art of Happiness (translated by George K. Strodach)
  A collection of Epicurus’ letters and teachings, focusing on his philosophy of simple pleasures, friendship, and avoiding unnecessary desires.

• Commentary:
  • Epicurus and His Philosophy by Norman W. DeWitt provides a detailed exploration of his thought and legacy.

• Key Work: Fragments (translated by Brooks Haxton)
  Heraclitus’ enigmatic aphorisms on change and the unity of opposites are a window into his revolutionary thinking.

• Companion Read:
  • Heraclitus: The Cosmic Fragments by G. S. Kirk offers detailed explanations and interpretations.

• Key Work: Diogenes: The Cynic Philosopher
  While Diogenes wrote little, anecdotes of his life are preserved in The Lives and Opinions of Eminent Philosophers by Diogenes Laërtius (translated by C.D. Yonge).

• Modern Biography:
  • The Philosophy of Diogenes by Luis E. Navia offers a comprehensive analysis of his unconventional philosophy.

From the first page, Fire on the Island transports you to the lesser-known Vourvoulos — not the Santorini village, but a fictional coastal town in Greece where beauty and hardship coexist. Through deeply evocative writing, Timothy Jay Smith doesn't just paint a scene; he places you right there. You can feel the sun and sense the sea breeze in the air. This is a Greece that tourists rarely see, raw, real, and heartbreakingly human.

Greek-American FBI agent Nick Damigos arrives to investigate a string of suspicious arsons. As the mystery slowly unfolds, so do the lives of the villagers, complex, conflicted, and deeply intertwined. But while the fire is the plot’s ignition point, the heart of this book lies not in whodunnit suspense, but in its intimate human storytelling; its exploration of grief, identity, belonging, and resilience.

Smith uses the thriller structure as a vessel to explore something much bigger: the emotional and social layers that make up real communities facing real crises.

What makes Fire on the Island stand out is how deeply rooted in Greek life it feels. Smith doesn’t simply set his story in Greece, but he captures the rhythms, customs, tensions, and nuances of Greek village life with startling accuracy.

The characters, from Vassoula, the unapologetic village siren who flirts with fire in every sense, and Ridi, the Albanian immigrant, to Takis, the gay man and fierce and rebellious Athina, who represents a restless Greek youth. They all reflect different aspects of Greek society and especially, its contradictions.

Even secondary details reflect real Greek life: the stray cats, the gossip in cafés, the mingling of tradition and modernity. And then there is the church, not just a backdrop but a living part of the village ecosystem. In Vourvoulos, as in most Greek communities, the church isn’t only spiritual; it’s social, cultural, and often political. It's where people gather, judge, confess, celebrate, and mourn.

Whether it’s the tolling of bells or the priest appearing as an authority or social figure, the presence of the church helps anchor the novel’s events in a deeply Greek context. Its role is essential, just like in many real Greek villages, where faith and tradition often shape the boundaries of freedom, love, and identity.

By incorporating the church, along with its influence, its expectations and its (not always) silent rules, Smith once again adds another layer of realism to the story. It becomes clear that in Vourvoulos, as in much of Greece, the past is never fully past, and institutions like the church continue to hold both comfort and constraint.

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Ready to dive into the story? Get your copy of Fire on the Island HERE!

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What may not be obvious at first but becomes strikingly clear is the feminist undercurrent running through the novel. Women, in all their forms and power, are the true emotional and moral anchors of this story.

You have Shirley, the English expat who came all the way from Australia, full of wit, experience, and unflinching strength. Then her daughter Lydia is the force of reason, the one who refuses to accept things at face value. She’s determined to complete the puzzle, to do her own research, to uncover what’s really going on beneath the surface, and she’s not afraid to wrestle with the norms of her community if that’s what it takes. And finally, Lydia’s daughter, Athina, full of fire, questioning everything around her, already a force of disruption in a rigid society.

These three women — grandmother, mother, and daughter — form a matrilineal triad, a modern Greek matriarchy, standing firm in a patriarchal setting. They don’t dominate with violence or ego, but with intelligence, emotion, and endurance. They challenge gender roles with their actions, choices, and refusal to be anyone but themselves.

Timothy Jay Smith masterfully blends social issues with personal, emotional journeys. Fire on the Island it’s about how people survive, adapt, and care in a world full of complexities. Beneath the sun-drenched beauty of Greece lies a community dealing with issues that feel all too real:

• The refugee crisis, shown not as an abstract problem but through human faces and suffering, especially in Jura’s story who may not be a refugee but experiences the luck of many
• Xenophobia, both casual and systemic, echoing wider European tensions
• The suppression of LGBTQ+ identities, especially in small, deeply traditional societies
• Suicide and the lifelong trauma of adoption, and how these wounds quietly shape lives
• Sexual firsts, revealing how coming-of-age is rarely what we expect

And deeply present in all of this is grief — raw, real grief. Grief for a child lost. Grief for a partner lost. Grief for a life not fully lived. Grief for love denied, for freedom never found, for a sense of home that may never exist.

Smith doesn’t dramatize grief; he honors it. He allows his characters to sit with it, wrestle with it, and sometimes, rise from it. Jura’s heartbreaking loss, Takis’s internal despair, Athina’s aching restlessness, they all carry forms of grief that are deeply human and universally felt.

Yet even with all this weight, the novel doesn’t collapse under it. What emerges instead is a strong current of resilience and compassion. The village is fractured, yes, but some people still show up, with food for refugees, with water, with care for stray animals, with truth, even when it’s difficult. And that’s what Fire on the Island ultimately celebrates: the endurance of kindness, even in a world set ablaze.

 

There are many moments in the book that strike the heart, but one scene that stands apart is that of Jura, the immigrant woman who nearly drowns, not metaphorically, but literally, trying to reach Greece. She survives, but her child does not. This moment, soaked in Ancient Greek tragic irony, is written with such emotional precision that it nearly breaks you. It's a quiet, crushing moment that forces the reader to sit with the weight of grief, helplessness, and injustice.

Despite the heartbreak, there’s joy, connection, and community. There’s the group giving sandwiches to refugees. There’s the care for stray cats, a subtle yet deeply Greek act of grassroots compassion. There’s Dingo, the stray dog Nick saves. In a world full of problems, these small gestures shine bright.

The use of Greek language throughout the book is not only charming but grounding. Smith sprinkles Greek expressions and words with effortless precision, giving the reader the feel of the language without ever making it confusing. For readers unfamiliar with Greek, it’s a fun introduction. For Greek readers, it’s a sign of deep cultural respect and accuracy.

It feels like a mini Greek lesson, wrapped in storytelling, one that adds local flavor and roots the novel even deeper in its Aegean soil.

What makes Fire on the Island resonate so deeply is that it’s not written from a distance. It’s clear that Timothy Jay Smith has lived and breathed Greece not just visited, but truly experienced it. The villages, the people, the way the sea smells in the morning, the way gossip travels faster than the wind, all of it speaks to someone who knows this world from the inside. And that’s what good writing is: writing what you know, and doing it with honesty and heart.

The characters don’t feel imagined, they feel observed, absorbed, and lovingly recreated. Every one of them could be someone you’ve met in a Greek village. And, perhaps, in a way, they are. There’s a quiet sense that pieces of Timothy himself are woven into each of these people, that their struggles, desires, and contradictions are not only reflections of Greek society, but of a writer who sees and feels deeply.

This is why Fire on the Island doesn't just tell a story but transports you in a lived reality, one only someone who truly knows Greece could portray so truthfully.

Fire on the Island is more than a mystery. It’s more than a Greek village story. It is a novel of human truths, full of emotion, contradiction, warmth, and shadows.

It gives you what every great book should: the feeling that you’ve lived somewhere else, that you’ve felt other lives, that you’ve walked in someone else’s shoes under someone else’s sun. And when you close the final page, you feel a little changed, a little more aware, a little more compassionate, a little more human.

If you’re looking for a book that speaks to the soul, that delivers both tension and tenderness, that brings Greece alive in ways most travel guides never could, Fire on the Island is for you.

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Ready to dive into the story? Get your copy of Fire on the Island HERE!

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When one starts reading Aspasia, it’s not what they expect. Instead of easing into a traditional narrative, they come across something surprising; a terrible crime, one that’s hard to comprehend, unsettling even. But let me tell you: this is not a story of a devastating crime. This is a story of resilience, of strength, and of the quiet but powerful dignity that emerges when someone reclaims their life in the aftermath of tragedy.

The plot takes us back to 1992, to a small village in Crete. For anyone who wasn’t old enough to remember that time — or hadn’t even been born (like me) — Aspasia offers something rare: a beautifully accurate journey back to the 90s, before smartphones, social media, or even widespread electricity in some areas. It captures the essence of a hidden Greek village, off the beaten track, untouched by modernity, where time seems to pass a little differently.

The village feels alive with the warmth and quirks of 90s Greek rural life. There’s the koutsompola neighbor — the town gossip — always watching, always whispering. There are the pappoudes, the old men who hold court at the kafeneio (the traditional Greek coffee house), exchanging stories and playing prefa. There’s the old daughter still living with her mother, her presence echoing generations of women rooted in family duty.

And, of course, there’s the "treli tou xoriou", the so-called “crazy woman of the village,” a staple figure in many small communities, someone both ostracized and oddly accepted. But as the story unfolds, we begin to question that label. Is she really mad, or is she simply someone the village never took the time to understand?

Even the stray cats seem to play their part, weaving themselves through alleyways and scenes like subtle witnesses, giving the story a lived-in realism. Wetzel gets the details right: the religious icons for protection, the communal rhythms of Greek life, the superstitions, the weathered charm of the land itself.

Katerina narrates in the first person, and through her eyes, we experience the texture of life in this remote Cretan village. But who is she? An American expat, though not a sugarcoated version of one. She’s not some wide-eyed tourist romanticizing the Greek islands. She’s a working mother, living day to day, trying to make ends meet in a place that is as beautiful as it is challenging.

Her husband, Dimitris, is present in the book, yet far away from her, working on a cargo ship. He’s a loving husband, doing what he can to provide for their family, but his absence is palpable. His hard-earned wages are meant to help Katerina fulfill a dream: to open a frontistirio, a uniquely Greek type of private tutoring school. That one detail alone tells you how deeply this book understands Greek life.

 

But while Dimitris is out at sea, Katerina is left to hold everything together. And this is where Wetzel’s storytelling shines: she doesn’t romanticize her; she gives us the raw, unpolished reality of a woman who is struggling, adapting, and surviving.

The book takes us briefly through Katerina’s language struggles, and more importantly, her emotional ones: the persistent feeling of being the xeni — the foreigner. No matter how long she stays, no matter how much she gives, she knows she will always be “the outsider” in some people’s eyes. That quiet alienation is something anyone who has uprooted their life for a new country will understand.

Yet at the core of Katerina’s character is love: big, consuming, unconditional love. Her daughter is her world, and everything she does revolves around being the best mother she can be. And her empathy extends beyond people, even to the most fragile of creatures, like the tiny grey kitten she adopts despite already having five cats. That one moment says so much about her: her heart always has room for one more vulnerable soul.

And then there’s Aspasia, the real protagonist, the one who gives the book its name. She is only five years old, yet she carries a strength and light that feel far beyond her years.

Aspasia is everything a child should be: innocent, curious, and full of life. She’s a little bundle of joy, a ray of sunshine who wants to explore, to create, and to understand the world around her. She radiates the unfiltered love and boundless curiosity that define childhood at its purest.

But what makes her so compelling isn’t just her innocence, it’s her deep, instinctive kindness. Aspasia has a fierce, protective love for her cats (as any child who adores animals will understand), and she approaches the world with a heart wide open.

Above all, her bond with her mother is the emotional core of the story. She trusts Katerina completely, confides in her, and draws her sense of safety and belonging from her. Their relationship is tender and unshakable, a love so big and so beautiful that it gives the entire book its emotional heartbeat.

Aspasia is not just a picturesque journey into a Cretan village; it’s a book that isn’t afraid to stare into the shadows. Florence Wetzel dives into themes that are as uncomfortable as they are necessary: abuse, mental illness (including OCD), trauma, animal abuse, complicity, as well as family dysfunction and broken trust. She also explores the fragile illusion of safety — how we convince ourselves we are secure until that sense is shattered — and the moral boundaries we’re willing to cross when protecting the ones we love.

What’s striking is how these topics are handled: honestly and unapologetically. This isn’t surface-level drama but rather a deep excavation of human pain, survival, and the messy moral gray areas that often go unspoken.

And remember that when this book was first written, many of these subjects were still taboo, especially in more conservative settings like small Greek villages. To tackle them so openly shows just how ahead of her time Wetzel was. She takes the reader by the hand and leads them through discomfort, not for shock, but for truth.

We could say that Aspasia carries the soul of a Greek tragedy. Florence Wetzel herself has said she drew inspiration from Sophocles’ Antigone, and it shows. The book is filled with characters caught in impossible situations, facing moral dilemmas with no clear path forward.

Even the name Aspasia holds profound weight. In Ancient Greece, Aspasia was one of the most influential women of her time, known for her intellect, resilience, and fearlessness. Giving this name to a little girl feels almost as if she draws strength directly from her namesake, embodying courage, brightness, and a quiet but unshakable will to survive.

This is where the tragedy deepens: we see tragic figures who are torn. Katerina, for instance, is completely fractured, facing unbearable dilemmas, unsure which path to take. Aspasia, too, must endure painful circumstances that no child should face, her innocence standing in heartbreaking contrast to the darkness surrounding her.

Wetzel even layers in hints of epic irony where we, as readers, often understand or sense truths that the protagonists cannot yet face, making the emotional impact even stronger.

One of the delightful layers of Aspasia is the way Florence Wetzel sprinkles the narrative with Greek words and idioms. This roots the book deeply in its setting, making you feel like you’re truly there.

 

We hear words like kolokithia (literally “zucchinis,” but used as an expression when something doesn’t make sense) or períptosi (a term used for someone seen as a little crazy). These serve as cultural markers and windows into how people think, speak, and relate to one another in this community.

The result? You don’t just read about Greece; you hear it, you feel it, you pick up its quirks. For anyone who loves languages, it’s intriguing and even educational as you might find yourself learning a bit of Greek along the way.

All in all, it was especially touching to see the mother-daughter relationship portrayed with such care and love. In a time when we’re constantly bombarded with despicable stories about broken families and failed parenting, it felt refreshing to see an example of someone being a truly good parent. It’s a reminder of how far one can go for family, and as Greeks, we deeply believe in protecting our own.

If there’s one line from Aspasia that stays with me, it’s this:

I hope that everyone who reads this book chooses to be the first type.

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