"Captain Michalis," also known as "Freedom and Death," is a historical novel by the Greek author Nikos Kazantzakis, first published in 1953. The book is set in Crete during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and it tells the story of the Cretan struggle for independence against the Ottoman Empire.

The main character of the book is Captain Michalis, a charismatic and heroic leader of the Cretan resistance fighters. Captain Michalis is a skilled fighter and strategist who is deeply committed to the cause of Cretan independence. He leads his fellow rebels in a series of daring raids and battles against the Ottoman occupiers, and his courage and bravery inspire others to join the struggle.

However, the book is not just about the military conflict. It also explores the personal lives and relationships of the characters, as well as their struggles with love, loyalty, and betrayal. One of the main subplots of the book involves the love triangle between Captain Michalis, his childhood friend Nuri Bey, and the beautiful and fiery young widow Emine.

The novel is considered a masterpiece of modern Greek literature and a classic of historical fiction. It is known for its vivid portrayal of the Cretan landscape and culture, as well as its powerful and complex characters. Through the story of Captain Michalis and his comrades, Kazantzakis explores themes of heroism, sacrifice, and the struggle for freedom and justice.

The filming of the movie based on the novel will start in Agios Nikolaos later this year (2023) .