Ithaca (Songs of Penelope, 1)
From the multi-award-winning author Claire North comes a daring reimagining that breathes life into ancient myth and gives voice to the women who stand defiant in a world ruled by ruthless men. It's time for the women of Ithaca to tell their tale . . .
"North brings a powerful, fresh, and unflinching voice to ancient myth. Breathtaking." --Jennifer Saint, author of Ariadne
Seventeen years ago, King Odysseus sailed to war with Troy, taking with him every man of fighting age from the island of Ithaca. None of them has returned, and the women of Ithaca have been left behind to run the kingdom.Penelope was barely into womanhood when she wed Odysseus. While he lived, her position was secure. But now, years on, speculation is mounting that her husband is dead, and suitors are beginning to knock at her door.
No one man is strong enough to claim Odysseus' empty throne--not yet. But as everyone waits for the balance of power to tip, Penelope knows that any choice she makes could plunge Ithaca into bloody civil war.
This is the story of Penelope of Ithaca, famed wife of Odysseus, as it has never been told before. Beyond Ithaca's shores, the whims of gods dictate the wars of men. But on the isle, it is the choices of the abandoned women--and their goddesses--that will change the course of the world.
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Community Reviews
I enjoyed that this was a great look at what it means to be a woman in Greek society and hold influence and wield power in a society that sees you as weak and begrudges any act of strength no matter the social class. I found the moments with Elektra, Clytemnestra and Penelope, three women in positions of power, to be my favorite parts of the book. I loved how the plot kept me guessing as to whether or not Penelopeâs meticulous planning would pay off. This was like reading about the underground crime lords of Ithaca. There are tons of characters, each with their own interesting background. North has stories for years without ever leaving the shores of Ithaca!
The story is told from the viewpoint of Hera and I wish that we had jumped to different POVs. Hera's viewpoint gave the audience omniscience but I wanted to know more about Tedora, Semele and Priene and would have loved reading certain events through their POV.
I was lucky enough to receive this as an ARC. Thank you so much to NetGalley, Claire North and Redhook Books. Ithaca will be out September 6th, 2022.
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