‘Once We Were Here’: New multi-generational love story set in Greece during WWII

·

As World War II intrudes upon their home, three young friends risk everything for freedom, love, and a chance at a better life.

This is the premise of a debut book by Greek-American author Christopher Cosmos, titled ‘Once We Were Here’, which is a multi-generational love story set in Greece during WWII.

The book was released in honour of the 80th Anniversary of Oxi Day, and in celebration of the untold story of how Greece helped the Allies to win WWII.

“Growing up, I heard stories of Greece and WWII for as long as I can remember, especially at the Greek Orthodox church that I attended in Michigan, and I wanted to honor those who fought and what they gave,” Cosmos said.

“Those stories that I heard were the inspiration for this novel, which I hope will do just that, and help honour and make the memories of our ancestors, and what they did, eternal, both for us now, and for all generations to come.”

The book was published in the United States by Arcade Publishing on October 20th, 2020, and was published only last week in Australia.

Steven Pressfield (“Gates of Fire”, “The Legend of Bagger Vance”) has called the book “a stunning literary debut about legacy and history, war and peace, fate and destiny, the power of family and stories, and how young love can still shine and endure, even in the face of the greatest evils, and long after we’re gone.”

See below for a small summary of the novel, available to order via links at the authors website:

On October 28th, 1940, Mussolini provided Greek Prime Minister Ioannis Metaxas with an ultimatum: either allow Axis forces to occupy their country, or face war, and Greece’s response was swift. “Oxi!” they said. “No!”

In a small village nestled against the radiant waters of the Aegean Sea, we find Alexei, the son of a local fisherman, and his best friend Costa, who were both born on the same night eighteen years earlier and have been like brothers ever since, though now, like all the other young men in their village and throughout Greece, they will leave their homes to bravely fight for their country.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Valentine’s Day, Greek Style: Two couples reflect on love, family and tradition

This year, The Greek Herald decided to speak with two Greek Australian couples from across the nation to ask them how they met.

‘It’s Story Time’ with Sophia Amarandos: A mini dating series on finding love

Sophia Amarandos is on her very own Bridget Jones-esque quest to find love, no matter how many glasses of wine and awkward dinners it takes.

Macquarie University leads the way in Greek Language Certificate awards ceremony

Over 200 people attended the award ceremony of the Certificates of Attainment in Greek Language 2024 that took place at Macquarie University.

Taste of the Aegean: Meet the Greek foodies bringing flavour to Antipodes 2025

This year’s Antipodes Festival is celebrating Greek culture and food with 'Taste of the Aegean,' proudly supported by The Greek Herald.

Inner West Hawks FC kick off 2025 season with memorable launch event

The Inner West Hawks FC officially launched their 2025 season with a vibrant celebration at Club Five Dock RSL on Wednesday, February 12.

You May Also Like

A new spiritual home: Port Macquarie’s new Greek Orthodox Church comes to life

The Greek community in Port Macquarie is set to establish a new Greek Orthodox Church, thanks to the efforts of community activists.

Christina Bacchiella recognised for her work in Indigenous education by Sydney university

Christina Bacchiella has received the University of Sydney’s Vice Chancellor Award for Indigenous Education Strategies.

Bill Vlahos jailed for nine years after defrauding punters of $17.5 million

In six years, Bill Vlahos managed to defrauded friends, family and others of $17.5 million, giving away dodgy punting advice.