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A Selection of Novels Set in Greece

Santorini — by Alistair MacLean

Experience the thrills of espionage amidst the volcanic landscapes of Greece in Alistair MacLean’s “Santorini.”

This captivating novel combines elements of mystery and adventure, set against the stunning backdrop of the Aegean Sea.

When a NATO surveillance plane discovers a yacht and a fishing trawler engaged in what appears to be an illicit exchange, a narrative of danger and deception unfolds.

Readers are taken on a suspenseful journey as the protagonists race against time to stop a catastrophic plot that could have devastating global consequences.

MacLean’s mastery in crafting compelling thriller stories shines through as his characters navigate the treacherous terrain of not only the physical world but also the complex web of Cold War politics.

The Greek Symbol Mystery — by Carolyn Keene

In “The Greek Symbol Mystery,” beloved amateur sleuth Nancy Drew is taken far from her hometown of River Heights to the historic lands of Greece.

Written by Carolyn Keene, this novel is part of the iconic series that fosters a love for mysteries in young readers.

As Nancy endeavors to uncover the secret behind a mysterious symbol, she becomes involved in a web of archaeological intrigue.

Aimed at a younger audience, the story is filled with educational references to Greek culture and sites, mixing adventure with a dose of learning.

Nancy’s intelligence, bravery, and resourcefulness make for an engaging and inspiring journey for any reader with a fondness for puzzle-solving and ancient civilizations.

The Names — by Don DeLillo

“The Names,” written by the critically acclaimed American author Don DeLillo, delves deep into the psyche of an expatriate risk analyst, James Axton.

Set against the sun-drenched backdrop of Greece, the novel is rich with philosophical and linguistic themes.

As Axton becomes entangled in a secretive cult that systematically murders individuals whose names bear particular linguistic significance, the story cryptically explores the relationships between language, culture, and identity.

DeLillo’s prose, often dense and poetic, paints a portrait of Greece that is both transportive and transformative, inviting readers to ponder their own place within the broader tapestry of human connection.

The Two Faces of January — by Patricia Highsmith

Renowned for her psychological thrillers, Patricia Highsmith’s “The Two Faces of January” is no exception.

This suspenseful tale follows the life of an American con artist, Chester MacFarland, as he travels with his wife to Greece.

Things take a dark turn when an encounter with a young American tour guide escalates into a series of deceitful maneuvers and deadly pursuits.

Straddling between Athens and Crete, the novel captures the intense atmosphere of Southern Europe in the 1960s.

Highsmith’s intricate plot and character studies provide a captivating glimpse into the intricate human mind, all while exploiting the opulent and historic setting to bolster the tension of the narrative.

A House Like a Lotus — by Madeleine L’Engle

In the touching and insightful young adult novel “A House Like a Lotus,” Madeleine L’Engle transports readers to Greece through the experiences of sixteen-year-old Polly O’Keefe.

The book, which is a part of L’Engle’s O’Keefe Family series, unfolds Polly’s emotional journey to maturity sparked by an invitation to assist at a conference in Greece.

The stunning Grecian setting provides the backdrop for Polly’s exploration of friendship, betrayal, and forgiveness as she reminisces about her complex relationship with the disturbed mentor who invited her.

L’Engle’s work is known for weaving themes of science and spirituality, and in this novel, the picturesque and ancient land of Greece parallels Polly’s internal voyage towards self-discovery.

The Beekeeper of Aleppo — by Christy Lefteri

While not entirely set in Greece, “The Beekeeper of Aleppo” by Christy Lefteri is a compelling tale that centers around the journey of a Syrian refugee couple who find temporary solace in Greece.

After fleeing the war-torn city of Aleppo, the protagonist Nuri, a beekeeper, and his artist wife Afra, blind from the horrors she experienced, end up in an Athens refugee camp.

Lefteri, the daughter of Cypriot refugees, draws attention to the harrowing experiences faced by people displaced by conflict, as well as the moments of hope and human kindness that sustain them.

The elements that touch on Greek culture and the settings of Greece offer a contemporary look at the country as a crossroads for people in crisis, providing a rich, if sometimes heartbreaking, context for the story.