I actually enjoyed these sections as it made me not only feel ‘above’ of the action, but gave me insight into the workings and favors of the gods above. Furthermore, parts of Ithaca are actually told from the gods perspective, specifically Hera. Because of that it can feel a little bit slow at times as your expectations war with your experience.

I didn’t realize that when I began reading so when the ending came I was taken aback.Īdditionally, because I feel like in literature class we don’t talk too much about Penelope’s time while Odysseus is gone, more things happen than you might remember. For one, Ithaca is going to have a sequel. To start this review, let me tell you some things that would have helped me while reading. So I was fascinated by Ithaca and a re-telling of Penelope’s story. I’ve read so many this year already and have a few ready for the rest of the month. I’m definitely on the Greek Mythology re-telling train. This has not impacted my review which is unbiased and honest.) (Disclaimer: I received this book from the publisher. On Ithaca, everyone watches everyone else, and there is no corner of the palace where intrigue does not reign. Only through cunning and her spy network of maids can she maintain the delicate balance of power needed for the kingdom to survive. If Penelope chooses one from amongst them, it will plunge Ithaca into bloody civil war. Between Penelope’s many suitors, a cold war of dubious alliances and hidden knives reigns, as everyone waits for the balance of power to tip one way or another. īut no one man is strong enough to claim Odysseus’ empty throne – not yet. But now, years on, speculation is mounting that husband is dead, and suitors are starting to knock at her door. Whilst he lived, her position was secure. Penelope was barely into womanhood when she wed Odysseus. None of them have returned, and the women have been left behind to run the kingdom. Seventeen years ago, king Odysseus sailed to war with Troy, taking with him every man of fighting age from the island of Ithaca. ‘The greatest power we woman can own, is that we take in secret.

Keep reading this book review for my full thoughts. The calculations, manipulations, and schemes for safety and security as a queen. Ithaca is a re-telling of Penelope’s story while Odysseus is away. How familiar are you with Penelope’s story from The Odyssey? Claire North has a re-telling for you.

Ithaca by claire north