Circe by Madeline Miller (Book #1)

Title: Circe

Author: Madeline Miller

Dates Read: Dec. 25 - Jan. 2

Format: Audiobook

Rating: ★★★★1/2

Description: A classic retelling of the Greek myth of Circe, daughter of Helios, god of the sun and mightiest of the Titans, who is banished by Zeus to live on a deserted island. There she hones her witchcraft and crosses paths with some of the major players in Greek mythology including Daedalus, Icarus, and Odysseus.

Review: This is not a unique or modern retelling, but it is nearly flawless. Circe, like so many Greek characters is epically doomed to lead a difficult life. She is made the target of both humans and gods who seek to destroy her either because she is a woman or because she is a powerful witch. But Circe is anything but helpless and I think that is why she is so relatable. I think the characterization of Circe is Miller's shining ovation with this work. Overall, I loved this book. I think it is a great addition to anyone's collection and worthy of sitting next to the Illiad and Odyssey.

Final Note: I've always been a huge fan of Greek mythology so this was right up my alley. Miller is a scholar of Greek and Latin Classics so her writing is very reminiscent of Homer and Virgil. I thought that the audiobook made the story much more accessible and allowed her narration to shine.