Book Summary
What dark truths lurk behind the ancient stories we dismiss as mere myths?
As Budapest and Athens vie to host the Olympics, Nicholas Kotsakis, a zealot devoted to the Greek gods, sets Budapest ablaze in a campaign of terror meant to force its withdrawal and clear the way for a pagan triumph in Athens.
Against this backdrop, Jay Edwards, a celebrated Christian decathlete from Princeton University, plans to make his faith the centerpiece of his Olympic journey. But as Nicholas and his followers prepare for the Games, Jay becomes more than an athlete in their eyes: he becomes a symbol of the Christian influence they are determined to overpower. Jessica Morgan, a skeptical journalist with whom Jay shares a complicated history, is drawn into the growing mystery.
Guided by a prophetess, Nicholas is charged with reclaiming ancient relics for ritual use during the Games, believing they will reawaken the principalities and powers behind his ancient faith. With the help of his mentor and the Council, a clandestine circle of pagan leaders, he sets his sights on Jay and his supporters.
As the Games approach, Jay grapples with injury, doubt, and disturbing events that suggest he is under spiritual attack. Meanwhile, Jessica’s investigation uncovers chilling links between history, terrorism, and the resurgence of paganism, bringing her closer to the sinister plot Nicholas and the Council have set in motion. As ominous forces gather, Jay and Jessica must stop the conspiracy before the spiritual siege on Athens erupts into a real-world assault on the faithful.