House of Odysseus by Claire North

*** Review ***

House of Odysseus, the second installment in Claire North’s Penelope trilogy, is a captivating and empowering retelling of the ancient myth of The Odyssey. In this remarkable tale, North puts the spotlight on Queen Penelope of Ithaca, a woman of unparalleled wit and strength, who must navigate a delicate balance of power while her husband, Odysseus, is away at war. The narrative not only delves into Penelope’s journey but also amplifies the voices of women who have been wronged, outsmarted men, and exhibited their indomitable spirit in a world ruled by ruthless kings.

It is a book that redefines the boundaries of mythological retellings and celebrates the power of women. Through North’s exceptional storytelling and impeccable attention to detail, the ancient world of Ithaca comes alive, seamlessly blending with contemporary themes of female empowerment and resilience.

This feminist odyssey showcases Queen Penelope as a heroine of unparalleled brilliance, wit, and determination, making her the shining star of the narrative. As readers follow her journey of self-discovery and face the challenges of maintaining peace in a world dominated by ambitious and ruthless men, they are drawn into a world filled with political intrigue, alliances, and secrets that shape the destiny of the characters.

Without any doubt, North’s masterful storytelling and attention to detail create a rich and immersive reading experience that seamlessly blends mythology with contemporary life. The prose is elegant and evocative, transporting readers to a world where the consequences of ancient curses and power struggles span generations.

The protagonist, Penelope, is a compelling and complex character. Through her eyes, readers witness a fresh perspective on this iconic figure. Her personal journey is filled with obstacles, self-discovery, and moments of profound introspection, making it easy for readers to connect with her on an emotional level. Penelope’s intelligence and cunning shine as she fights to maintain peace on Ithaca amid the return of King Orestes of Mycenae and his troubled sister, Elektra. These women form an alliance that showcases their strength, not merely in physical prowess but also in their emotional intelligence and wit.

One of the highlights of House of Odysseus is the portrayal of female desire and the exploration of political court intrigue. North delves deep into the psyches of the characters, and their secrets shape the world around them. The author’s research is evident, as historical details are expertly woven into the narrative, bringing authenticity to the story.

While the narrative is told from the perspective of the goddess Aphrodite, it takes a bit of getting used to. However, once immersed in the story, the gripping plot and well-crafted characters overshadow any initial reservations. The novel’s pacing is a slow burn, focusing more on the war of words and cunning strategies rather than epic battles and romantic interludes.

The supporting cast, including Elektra and Helen of Troy, are more than just tragic figures in the background. They are given depth and agency, contributing significantly to the story’s development. Penelope’s alliance with these women showcases the power of female camaraderie and their ability to outsmart their male counterparts.

The alliance formed between Penelope, Elektra, and Helen of Troy is a powerful testament to the strength of women supporting one another, transcending the confines of societal expectations and male-dominated power dynamics. North artfully crafts these characters, breathing life into them, and allowing readers to connect deeply with their struggles, triumphs, and desires.

One aspect that might have improved the middle section of the book is a faster pace, but the satisfying and well-executed ending compensates for it. The audiobook narration enhances the reading experience, making it all the more engaging.

Even though House of Odysseus is the second book in the series, it can be enjoyed as a standalone. The familiarity with the characters and the author’s seamless storytelling help readers effortlessly connect with the narrative.

As a reader, I felt deeply sentimental and emotionally involved in this powerful and empowering retelling of Penelope’s story. The portrayal of women standing strong in the face of adversity resonates deeply and reminds us of the timeless relevance of these characters and their struggles.

In conclusion, House of Odysseus by Claire North is a must-read for anyone who enjoys reimagined mythology, feminist narratives, and stories of empowered women. North’s exceptional storytelling and compelling characters create a tale that lingers in the mind long after the last page is turned. This book is a testament to the enduring power of myth and the strength of women who defy the norms and make their own destiny.