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Homeric Chronicles #1
Song of Sacrifice
The heart of the Trojan War belongs to the women.
Mothers and daughters; wives and war prizes, whisper to us across time...
...remember our songs alongside the mighty men of myth.
As the Age of Heroes wanes, the gods gamble more fiercely with mortals’ lives than they ever have before. Women must rely on their inner strength and cunning to survive the wars men wage for gold and glory.
Clytemnestra of Mycenae struggles for control of her life after Agamemnon ruthlessly rips it apart. Leda of Sparta survives a brutal assault by Zeus, shouldering a terrible secret in silence. Penelope raises Ithaka’s sole heir alone, praying for Odysseus’ swift return. Thetis, the sea nymph, despairs of her son’s destiny and resorts to forbidden magic to save him. Hecuba of Troy mourns the loss of her second son to a dark prophesy. And Shavash of Pedasus prepares her daughter to marry the greatest warrior who ever lived.
In a world where love leads to war and duty leads to destruction, the iron hearts of heroines will conquer all.
Sing, Muse, sing their song of sacrifice...
Replaces Song of Princes as the first book in the Homeric Chronicles.
Mothers and daughters; wives and war prizes, whisper to us across time...
...remember our songs alongside the mighty men of myth.
As the Age of Heroes wanes, the gods gamble more fiercely with mortals’ lives than they ever have before. Women must rely on their inner strength and cunning to survive the wars men wage for gold and glory.
Clytemnestra of Mycenae struggles for control of her life after Agamemnon ruthlessly rips it apart. Leda of Sparta survives a brutal assault by Zeus, shouldering a terrible secret in silence. Penelope raises Ithaka’s sole heir alone, praying for Odysseus’ swift return. Thetis, the sea nymph, despairs of her son’s destiny and resorts to forbidden magic to save him. Hecuba of Troy mourns the loss of her second son to a dark prophesy. And Shavash of Pedasus prepares her daughter to marry the greatest warrior who ever lived.
In a world where love leads to war and duty leads to destruction, the iron hearts of heroines will conquer all.
Sing, Muse, sing their song of sacrifice...
Replaces Song of Princes as the first book in the Homeric Chronicles.
543 pages, ebook
First published June 13, 2016
About the author
Janell Rhiannon
9 books207 followersI write historical fiction and fantasy. I am fascinated by Greek mythology. In graduate school, I focused on the ancient history of Greece and Rome. Hooked by the “sword and sandal” world, I studied everything I could about mythology and Alexander the Great.
The Homeric Chronicles series is dedicated to merging dozens of Greek myths, including Homer’s epics, with plays, history, and archaeology. My intent is to raise the heroines’ voices equally alongside the heroes, opening up a traditionally male focused genre to a female audience.
I live in CA and enjoy spending time with my children and grandchildren. I have a pack of two big dogs and two cats. I love to hear from readers. My favorite spot to scroll through is Twitter!
Interested in knowing more about the Greek heroes and heroines of Greek myth? Listen to my podcast Greek Mythology Retold. Available at iTunes and all other major podcast platforms.
*Other links available on webpage.
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/g...
Homeric Chronicles (Historical Fiction/Mythology):
#1 Song of Sacrifice
#2 Rise of Princes
#3 Rage of Queens (WIP)
#4 Return of Kings (WIP)
Find me at:
Janell Rhiannon's website: www.janellrhiannon.com
Twitter https://twitter.com/theravenangel
YouTube @ Janell Rhiannon https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-cj...
Facebook @Janell Rhiannon Author https://www.facebook.com/JanellRhiann...
Instagram @ janell_rhiannon https://www.instagram.com/janell_rhia...
Pinterest @ Janell Rhiannon
The Homeric Chronicles series is dedicated to merging dozens of Greek myths, including Homer’s epics, with plays, history, and archaeology. My intent is to raise the heroines’ voices equally alongside the heroes, opening up a traditionally male focused genre to a female audience.
I live in CA and enjoy spending time with my children and grandchildren. I have a pack of two big dogs and two cats. I love to hear from readers. My favorite spot to scroll through is Twitter!
Interested in knowing more about the Greek heroes and heroines of Greek myth? Listen to my podcast Greek Mythology Retold. Available at iTunes and all other major podcast platforms.
*Other links available on webpage.
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/g...
Homeric Chronicles (Historical Fiction/Mythology):
#1 Song of Sacrifice
#2 Rise of Princes
#3 Rage of Queens (WIP)
#4 Return of Kings (WIP)
Find me at:
Janell Rhiannon's website: www.janellrhiannon.com
Twitter https://twitter.com/theravenangel
YouTube @ Janell Rhiannon https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-cj...
Facebook @Janell Rhiannon Author https://www.facebook.com/JanellRhiann...
Instagram @ janell_rhiannon https://www.instagram.com/janell_rhia...
Pinterest @ Janell Rhiannon
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 156 reviews
July 8, 2016
TO BE HONEST.
I will not give this book less then 5 stars. It was breath taking, written beautifully. It is a story following the chronological order of a myth we know and love. The story of Troy, Paris, King Priam, Cassandra, Helen, Odysessus, and the greek gods.... leading up to the battle of Troy. I am so excited for the next book. Janell is a new, strong voice in the writing world and would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys slightly mature novels.
I will not give this book less then 5 stars. It was breath taking, written beautifully. It is a story following the chronological order of a myth we know and love. The story of Troy, Paris, King Priam, Cassandra, Helen, Odysessus, and the greek gods.... leading up to the battle of Troy. I am so excited for the next book. Janell is a new, strong voice in the writing world and would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys slightly mature novels.
June 14, 2021
We all know how um…… ‘healthy’ the Greek gods were but by all thins sane, I did not expect this book to have all that detail. I was expecting the famed Battle of Troy detailed in this trilogy but what I got seemed to be a rather detailed tale of bedroom activities of the Grecian times. I would clearly state the reason I finished the book so early was due to the fact that I actively chose to skip some parts of the book. I was growing tedious of hearing the words ‘sacred cross’. I was ready to carve out my own if it stopped me from reading about it once again.
In no way am I blaming the author for it. She really had done a great job of fitting in such a tale into three books and although this is just the first of the trilogy, I could say that she had done an excellent work of giving the gist of the event leading up to the infamous war. If you like me Isa mid 90’s baby, Troy would have been in your bucket list and a movie that you’ve watched for sure. This, even if you had not read much about the Grecian tales of heroes, gods and monsters, you would know. Unfortunately if I had to choose a book that outlines this war, I would still choose Madeline Miller’s The Song of Achilles. It has a special place in my heart and will forever do. But like I mentioned earlier, if one is looking for a quick recap and would not mind the endless sexual references, I would highly recommend this book.
In no way am I blaming the author for it. She really had done a great job of fitting in such a tale into three books and although this is just the first of the trilogy, I could say that she had done an excellent work of giving the gist of the event leading up to the infamous war. If you like me Isa mid 90’s baby, Troy would have been in your bucket list and a movie that you’ve watched for sure. This, even if you had not read much about the Grecian tales of heroes, gods and monsters, you would know. Unfortunately if I had to choose a book that outlines this war, I would still choose Madeline Miller’s The Song of Achilles. It has a special place in my heart and will forever do. But like I mentioned earlier, if one is looking for a quick recap and would not mind the endless sexual references, I would highly recommend this book.
April 14, 2020
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
You Should Read This If You Like: Greek mythology, alternative historical fiction, feminist retelling, Circe or The Song of Achilles, stories of Gods and men, The Odyssey, etc.
Song of Sacrifice chronicles the events leading up to the fall of Troy all the way from the birth of Paris. It is a retelling of sorts. While we see a lot of the key figures of the war from the infamous Odysseys, Agamemnon, Achilles, etc. make their appearances, the story is told from a predominantly female perspective. Putting the women of Greek mythology front and center, Rhiannon gives voices to the women who were often pushed to the margins of history, or even completely erased from it. The powerless, the victims, the nameless women of Greek mythology instead are the protagonists of our story acting as mothers, wives, sisters, mistresses, lovers, goddesses, and villains behind the scenes who’s lives inadvertently influenced the fall of Troy.
Instead of being reduced to bodies plundered in war and stolen as trophies, these women are given their agency, acting as key players in the war rather than mere spectators.
The writing style really lends itself to the storytelling, mimicking that of classic texts historical texts although in places it slips into more modern dialogue that can feel a bit jarring. But these instances are few and far in between.
As the story is told from the women’s perspectives, there is certainly a little bit of maneuvering involved in order to make the characters decisions line up with the mythological events. However, it can feel a little frustrating when certain characters seemingly change overnight in order to better fit the narrative. As we are dealing with such a large cast, time spent away from certain characters lead them to make rapid changes off screen which can seem a little abrupt when we return back to their story. But that’s mostly a personal issue that I’ve had with this book.
Apart from that, Song of Sacrifice is an excellent retelling of classic Greek Mythology from a feminist perspective. It is lyrical in style and rhythm, and an almost compulsive read. Highly recommended! 4 Stars.
________________________________
Asgshjakalalalalaaa that endingggggg!!! This was just fucking brilliant! 4 stars. RTC.
You Should Read This If You Like: Greek mythology, alternative historical fiction, feminist retelling, Circe or The Song of Achilles, stories of Gods and men, The Odyssey, etc.
Song of Sacrifice chronicles the events leading up to the fall of Troy all the way from the birth of Paris. It is a retelling of sorts. While we see a lot of the key figures of the war from the infamous Odysseys, Agamemnon, Achilles, etc. make their appearances, the story is told from a predominantly female perspective. Putting the women of Greek mythology front and center, Rhiannon gives voices to the women who were often pushed to the margins of history, or even completely erased from it. The powerless, the victims, the nameless women of Greek mythology instead are the protagonists of our story acting as mothers, wives, sisters, mistresses, lovers, goddesses, and villains behind the scenes who’s lives inadvertently influenced the fall of Troy.
Instead of being reduced to bodies plundered in war and stolen as trophies, these women are given their agency, acting as key players in the war rather than mere spectators.
The writing style really lends itself to the storytelling, mimicking that of classic texts historical texts although in places it slips into more modern dialogue that can feel a bit jarring. But these instances are few and far in between.
As the story is told from the women’s perspectives, there is certainly a little bit of maneuvering involved in order to make the characters decisions line up with the mythological events. However, it can feel a little frustrating when certain characters seemingly change overnight in order to better fit the narrative. As we are dealing with such a large cast, time spent away from certain characters lead them to make rapid changes off screen which can seem a little abrupt when we return back to their story. But that’s mostly a personal issue that I’ve had with this book.
Apart from that, Song of Sacrifice is an excellent retelling of classic Greek Mythology from a feminist perspective. It is lyrical in style and rhythm, and an almost compulsive read. Highly recommended! 4 Stars.
________________________________
Asgshjakalalalalaaa that endingggggg!!! This was just fucking brilliant! 4 stars. RTC.
July 9, 2019
A VERY interesting retelling of the Greek mythology that we all know.
I particularly loved the way the characters were constructed, the author making sure we all can see the fact that everyone makes mistakes, even gods.
The book plot takes place before the Trojan War. There are so many perspectives of the characters that play even a tiny role in the development of the war. It is all about the connections formed between them and all the events that led to a greater purpose than they expected.
A good book indeed, especially for the mythology lovers! It has a different perspective.
Thank you, NetGalley and the publisher for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review!
I particularly loved the way the characters were constructed, the author making sure we all can see the fact that everyone makes mistakes, even gods.
The book plot takes place before the Trojan War. There are so many perspectives of the characters that play even a tiny role in the development of the war. It is all about the connections formed between them and all the events that led to a greater purpose than they expected.
A good book indeed, especially for the mythology lovers! It has a different perspective.
Thank you, NetGalley and the publisher for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review!
November 20, 2020
review originally written in April 2020, and revised in Nov 2020
So, I’m in the midst of listening to Pat Barker’s The Silence of the Girls, and as I was doing so I got to thinking about the various modern retells of Homer’s work, especially this one – only to realise I needed to add to this (and maybe I’ll get to the others later).
This novel, to say is not what I expected, is an understatement. It would have been nice if the cover of the book was a truer reflection of its content.
When I think back, to when I read this one, afterwards I was not sure if this was not written to not titillate, where the whole Homer angle is a marketing ploy. If this was so, then at least the women could have been portrayed better, especially during the scenes; there was only one sex scene where it was the woman who was in control or the man’s equal, however, even that was disappointing as her strength was cliché that fitted a femme fatale type character. However, Janell Rhiannon describes this book as having strong women, this is definitely not my definition of telling this old story from a strong female perspective.
Amongst a huge cast of characters and multitude of storylines, there were a few moments where the women found their voice but it faded as quickly as it came as the plot moved to another story before it could be developed properly. I also found how most of the women were cut from the same mould, young, giggly and frequently shown to be mastered in bed, which I found equally disturbing to the rape scenes. Clytemnestra and Helen could be an exception to the rule, but I struggled to connect to them as they too became victims of plot pointing and kept in their moulds. Throughout, there were plenty of opportunities for a female character to find her autonomy, like the wedding scene of Iphigenia, which Euripides (according to Wikipedia first performed in 405 BC) shows her in a courageous and heroic light.
Janell Rhiannon emphasises in this book how much research she had done to write this book, this being the first in the series. I kind of think it doesn’t matter, because it’s not clear who this book is for, especially when the graphic sex scenes lack the same finesse and edge as to how her characters and her story develop.
I’m also discovering I’m not a fan of stories where the drama is led by emotions over development of the scene. The good thing about these reads is I can skim through them knowing I will not miss any critical story element that would change how I interpret it. For me these are the stories where for pages nothing happens, and all the conflict relies on the shrill of the drama. Regardless, I would have awarded this 2 stars, as I continually paused to look things up which further improved my knowledge of Greek Myths, however, in how it poorly represents women as strong female role models, I cannot do this.
So, I’m in the midst of listening to Pat Barker’s The Silence of the Girls, and as I was doing so I got to thinking about the various modern retells of Homer’s work, especially this one – only to realise I needed to add to this (and maybe I’ll get to the others later).
This novel, to say is not what I expected, is an understatement. It would have been nice if the cover of the book was a truer reflection of its content.
When I think back, to when I read this one, afterwards I was not sure if this was not written to not titillate, where the whole Homer angle is a marketing ploy. If this was so, then at least the women could have been portrayed better, especially during the scenes; there was only one sex scene where it was the woman who was in control or the man’s equal, however, even that was disappointing as her strength was cliché that fitted a femme fatale type character. However, Janell Rhiannon describes this book as having strong women, this is definitely not my definition of telling this old story from a strong female perspective.
Amongst a huge cast of characters and multitude of storylines, there were a few moments where the women found their voice but it faded as quickly as it came as the plot moved to another story before it could be developed properly. I also found how most of the women were cut from the same mould, young, giggly and frequently shown to be mastered in bed, which I found equally disturbing to the rape scenes. Clytemnestra and Helen could be an exception to the rule, but I struggled to connect to them as they too became victims of plot pointing and kept in their moulds. Throughout, there were plenty of opportunities for a female character to find her autonomy, like the wedding scene of Iphigenia, which Euripides (according to Wikipedia first performed in 405 BC) shows her in a courageous and heroic light.
Janell Rhiannon emphasises in this book how much research she had done to write this book, this being the first in the series. I kind of think it doesn’t matter, because it’s not clear who this book is for, especially when the graphic sex scenes lack the same finesse and edge as to how her characters and her story develop.
I’m also discovering I’m not a fan of stories where the drama is led by emotions over development of the scene. The good thing about these reads is I can skim through them knowing I will not miss any critical story element that would change how I interpret it. For me these are the stories where for pages nothing happens, and all the conflict relies on the shrill of the drama. Regardless, I would have awarded this 2 stars, as I continually paused to look things up which further improved my knowledge of Greek Myths, however, in how it poorly represents women as strong female role models, I cannot do this.
July 6, 2016
This book made me fall in love with Greek mythology all over again. Gods, goddesses, nymphs, kings, queens, seers, betrayal, love, tragedy, longing, this book has it all. Janell Rhiannon skillfully blends the historical chronicles of: Paris, Achilles, Hector and Odysseus in one stunning chronological tale. Her artful writing style will pull you right into the story from the first sentence. This author is a great storyteller and I immediately connected with the characters while immersing myself in the gorgeous world she has created rich with Greek folklore and mythology. I'm looking forward to the second installment. I highly recommend this book for anyone who loves Greek Gods. By Zeus' Balls, read this!
Want to read
January 6, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (1/6/2020)! 🎁
April 15, 2019
4.5/5★
I actually already read this book two years ago when it was still called Song of Princes but since it got relaunched as Song of Sacrifice with a new title, cover and more chapters I decided to read and review it again. I'm so glad that the author, Janell Rhiannon, did this because I loved it even more than the first time around. Just look at that cover alone. It's so gorgeous. And once again I really enjoyed reading about these characters and the story in general.
A lot can change in two years and I feel like now I'm even more into mythology retellings than I was before and can definitely appreciate them more. By now I've also read my fair share of these kind of reads. With that said I just want to say that Song of Sacrifice is definitely one of the better and more detailed mythology retellings is that I've ever read.
One of my favorite things about this book was the beautiful writing. I absolutely loved it. I've always been a sucker for beautiful writing but in Song of Sacrifice is really stands out. So if you, just like me, love this in a book then I'd highly recommend you to pick this one up!
Another thing what makes this an excellent read is the fact that the story of the Trojan War is one of the most epic myths to ever be told. I can imagine it's hard for any author to write and retell this legendary story but Janell Rhiannon more than pulls it off. Song of Sacrifice will always be one of my favorite books and I can't wait to buy and read the next one. Hopefully soon!
I actually already read this book two years ago when it was still called Song of Princes but since it got relaunched as Song of Sacrifice with a new title, cover and more chapters I decided to read and review it again. I'm so glad that the author, Janell Rhiannon, did this because I loved it even more than the first time around. Just look at that cover alone. It's so gorgeous. And once again I really enjoyed reading about these characters and the story in general.
A lot can change in two years and I feel like now I'm even more into mythology retellings than I was before and can definitely appreciate them more. By now I've also read my fair share of these kind of reads. With that said I just want to say that Song of Sacrifice is definitely one of the better and more detailed mythology retellings is that I've ever read.
One of my favorite things about this book was the beautiful writing. I absolutely loved it. I've always been a sucker for beautiful writing but in Song of Sacrifice is really stands out. So if you, just like me, love this in a book then I'd highly recommend you to pick this one up!
Another thing what makes this an excellent read is the fact that the story of the Trojan War is one of the most epic myths to ever be told. I can imagine it's hard for any author to write and retell this legendary story but Janell Rhiannon more than pulls it off. Song of Sacrifice will always be one of my favorite books and I can't wait to buy and read the next one. Hopefully soon!
April 16, 2019
I'm a Greek mythology geek, and **Song of Sacrifice** by *Janell Rhiannon* (as an ARC via NetGalley) should've been right up my alley. Alas, it wasn't – while it showed human perspectives on all the big players in the myths leading up to the Trojan war, the stories were as fragmented as the real myths, even if ordered by history. The novel thing I'd hope to see from a book such as this would be fleshed out characters and story arcs, but sadly, both the characters and the story stayed flat. The final annoyance was that roughly every time any couple had any type of sex, it had to be discussed and described in-depth, and not in great quality, either. While I like the frankness of the Greek myths, these scenes often served no reason. Sadly, I cannot recommend this book.
May 16, 2020
Janell Rhiannon's Song of Sacrifice is easily one of my favourite reads of 2019. This book is the ultimate amalgamation of everything I love and want in a book. Forgive me readers, if I swoon and fangirl very hard as I write this review. I will try my best to keep it together and thoroughly edit, so I keep my love of this series succinct.
Song of Sacrifice is the first in the Homeric Chronicles series, a series detailing the Battle of Troy; this book is a precursor to the war and the events that set the war on its course. Rhiannon writes from the perspective of the women and lesser understood characters of Troy, and of Ancient Greece, weaving together mythological and historical stories about a war that has persisted in cultural knowledge for the past 3,000 years. Song of Sacrifice is beautifully written. Rhiannon effortlessly weaves the politics and games of the Greeks gods and the mythology of Ancient Greece into real events.
The book begins with the birth of Paris, and with his birth a warning that he will herald the destruction of Troy. It is only by the intervention of Athena that he lives after his own birth. Honestly, I have always viewed Paris as a bit of a selfish soul, one who sat in Hektor's shadow willingly, someone who allowed an entire war to happen because of his own wants. I have never really taken to him as a character… though I will admit, this book did have me empathising and caring about him a lot more than I thought I would, which is evidence of good writing and plot structure.
Now, Ancient Greece and the Battle of Troy have always held a deep fascination for me. I was that teenager that read The Iliad and The Odyssey, and that person who took Ancient History because I wanted to. I am well-aware of the history that Song of Sacrifice deals with. Rhiannon's research into the period is thorough and structured.
I can be sceptical of retellings in general and, although this book is a retelling, it offered a take on the Battle of Troy that I think I'll likely carry with me forever. I have a new appreciation of women like Clytemnestra, Hecuba, Briseis, and of course, Helen of Sparta.
The realities of the period and the rights and opportunities of the women were very real throughout. I was with these women and acutely felt their struggles. My heart was with Clytemnestra as she was forcefully and violently made the bride of Agamemnon, it was with Helen who seemingly had it all except the power to choose her own life and destiny. It was with Thetis as she tries to protect her newborn son, Achilles, from walking his predetermined fate toward Troy. As I was reading, I got a sense that sacrifice is what leads many of these characters through their character arcs. It is not just a sacrifice in the literal sense, but the myriad of choices in their lives that ultimately carry them to the impossible decisions that lead to war and loss. These women are just as fearless and powerful as the more famous men to which they are aligned. But, it is important to note that they are not powerful because Rhiannon writes it so; I realised as I was reading that these women were always this strong, they just needed a voice to show that.
Upon finishing Song of Sacrifice , I immediately checked the publication dates for the rest of the series and eagerly purchased Rise of Princes , book two of the series. I will be reading that very soon. I can't recommend Song of Sacrifice enough if you are familiar with the Battle of Troy, or if you just want to read something with some solid research and writing.
Thanks to Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
For more reviews, head to my blog
Song of Sacrifice is the first in the Homeric Chronicles series, a series detailing the Battle of Troy; this book is a precursor to the war and the events that set the war on its course. Rhiannon writes from the perspective of the women and lesser understood characters of Troy, and of Ancient Greece, weaving together mythological and historical stories about a war that has persisted in cultural knowledge for the past 3,000 years. Song of Sacrifice is beautifully written. Rhiannon effortlessly weaves the politics and games of the Greeks gods and the mythology of Ancient Greece into real events.
The book begins with the birth of Paris, and with his birth a warning that he will herald the destruction of Troy. It is only by the intervention of Athena that he lives after his own birth. Honestly, I have always viewed Paris as a bit of a selfish soul, one who sat in Hektor's shadow willingly, someone who allowed an entire war to happen because of his own wants. I have never really taken to him as a character… though I will admit, this book did have me empathising and caring about him a lot more than I thought I would, which is evidence of good writing and plot structure.
Now, Ancient Greece and the Battle of Troy have always held a deep fascination for me. I was that teenager that read The Iliad and The Odyssey, and that person who took Ancient History because I wanted to. I am well-aware of the history that Song of Sacrifice deals with. Rhiannon's research into the period is thorough and structured.
I can be sceptical of retellings in general and, although this book is a retelling, it offered a take on the Battle of Troy that I think I'll likely carry with me forever. I have a new appreciation of women like Clytemnestra, Hecuba, Briseis, and of course, Helen of Sparta.
The realities of the period and the rights and opportunities of the women were very real throughout. I was with these women and acutely felt their struggles. My heart was with Clytemnestra as she was forcefully and violently made the bride of Agamemnon, it was with Helen who seemingly had it all except the power to choose her own life and destiny. It was with Thetis as she tries to protect her newborn son, Achilles, from walking his predetermined fate toward Troy. As I was reading, I got a sense that sacrifice is what leads many of these characters through their character arcs. It is not just a sacrifice in the literal sense, but the myriad of choices in their lives that ultimately carry them to the impossible decisions that lead to war and loss. These women are just as fearless and powerful as the more famous men to which they are aligned. But, it is important to note that they are not powerful because Rhiannon writes it so; I realised as I was reading that these women were always this strong, they just needed a voice to show that.
Upon finishing Song of Sacrifice , I immediately checked the publication dates for the rest of the series and eagerly purchased Rise of Princes , book two of the series. I will be reading that very soon. I can't recommend Song of Sacrifice enough if you are familiar with the Battle of Troy, or if you just want to read something with some solid research and writing.
Thanks to Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
For more reviews, head to my blog
March 29, 2020
At various times I have had charts, lists, family trees of any number of ancient characters/people who keep showing up in the ancient stories. But I could never really get a feel for the connections. Seems I am not alone.
Rhiannon has a written an adequately imagined novel more showing than telling of the parade of people who are participants and people who are family--parents, some siblings, wives, and children--of those participants. That's quite a parade of characters.
The blurb indicates that this story is told from the perspective of the women. The bare descriptions intimate encounters, intimate conversations, nursing of babies, nurturing and aiding of children, and grieving of children all support that assertion. That Rhiannon can fit all this description and information in a mere 426 pages impresses me.
Why I read this book: A GR friend and I are reading books/stories that inform our individual understandings of the Trojan War.
Rhiannon has a written an adequately imagined novel more showing than telling of the parade of people who are participants and people who are family--parents, some siblings, wives, and children--of those participants. That's quite a parade of characters.
The blurb indicates that this story is told from the perspective of the women. The bare descriptions intimate encounters, intimate conversations, nursing of babies, nurturing and aiding of children, and grieving of children all support that assertion. That Rhiannon can fit all this description and information in a mere 426 pages impresses me.
Why I read this book: A GR friend and I are reading books/stories that inform our individual understandings of the Trojan War.
Read
October 8, 2018Just wanted to thank all of you who’ve enjoyed the Homeric Chronicles. I’ve really tried to raise the voices of the heroines in this series. Its not a feminist revision by any means, but I did feel like the women deserve as big a piece of the whole mythological narrative. I also APPRECIATE your support as I’ve relaunched the first book Song of Princes with a new title and cover...and 14 additional chapters as SONG OF SACRIFICE.
If you have a digital copy of Song of Princes and would like to read the new title Song of Sacrifice, which is available on Dec. 26, 2018, please email me at my webpage or DM me here or on Twitter. I’ll get an eBook copy to you when the time comes :)
And while you’re here, click that WANT to read button :)
Cheers!
Janell Rhiannon
If you have a digital copy of Song of Princes and would like to read the new title Song of Sacrifice, which is available on Dec. 26, 2018, please email me at my webpage or DM me here or on Twitter. I’ll get an eBook copy to you when the time comes :)
And while you’re here, click that WANT to read button :)
Cheers!
Janell Rhiannon
April 29, 2019
Disclaimer: I received this book free from Netgalley in return for an unbiased review.
This book was a DNF. It was not the book I was expecting. Here is a part of the description:
The heart of the Trojan War belongs to the women.
Mothers and daughters; wives and war prizes, whisper to us across time…
…remember our songs alongside the mighty men of myth.
As the Age of Heroes wanes, the gods gamble more fiercely with mortals’ lives than they ever have before. Women must rely on their inner strength and cunning to survive the wars men wage for gold and glory.
After reading that description what I expected was a re-telling of the original Homeric myths but with a female-centric spin. Kind of like the recent books by Madeline Miller. Grecian feminism. (ha) That is not what this book is.
There are a number of women in the book, but disappointingly they are shoehorned into the classic tropes … mother, whore, crone. There is precious little attention paid to their own motivations or personalities except as to where they intersect with the men in their lives. Oh they get plenty pissed or sad with their men, but that’s not enough to make this feminist. They need to have lives, thoughts, feelings separate from men. The women in this book do not voice those things.
They are also, in my opinion, overly sexualized. I’m all for a girl getting her groove on and owning her sexuality but in this book, unless you’re a crone figure, that’s pretty much all you do is get it on. It’s not what I came here for. That’s a different book than what I feel like I was sold on. I would have just not requested that book. Instead, I got this book, and it was not for me. All that being said, I’m definitely not looking into the next part of the series.
This book was a DNF. It was not the book I was expecting. Here is a part of the description:
The heart of the Trojan War belongs to the women.
Mothers and daughters; wives and war prizes, whisper to us across time…
…remember our songs alongside the mighty men of myth.
As the Age of Heroes wanes, the gods gamble more fiercely with mortals’ lives than they ever have before. Women must rely on their inner strength and cunning to survive the wars men wage for gold and glory.
After reading that description what I expected was a re-telling of the original Homeric myths but with a female-centric spin. Kind of like the recent books by Madeline Miller. Grecian feminism. (ha) That is not what this book is.
There are a number of women in the book, but disappointingly they are shoehorned into the classic tropes … mother, whore, crone. There is precious little attention paid to their own motivations or personalities except as to where they intersect with the men in their lives. Oh they get plenty pissed or sad with their men, but that’s not enough to make this feminist. They need to have lives, thoughts, feelings separate from men. The women in this book do not voice those things.
They are also, in my opinion, overly sexualized. I’m all for a girl getting her groove on and owning her sexuality but in this book, unless you’re a crone figure, that’s pretty much all you do is get it on. It’s not what I came here for. That’s a different book than what I feel like I was sold on. I would have just not requested that book. Instead, I got this book, and it was not for me. All that being said, I’m definitely not looking into the next part of the series.
March 28, 2020
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
You Should Read This If You Like: Greek mythology, alternative historical fiction, feminist retelling, Circe or The Song of Achilles, stories of Gods and men, The Odyssey, etc.
Song of Sacrifice chronicles the events leading up to the fall of Troy all the way from the birth of Paris. It is a retelling of sorts. While we see a lot of the key figures of the war from the infamous Odysseys, Agamemnon, Achilles, etc. make their appearances, the story is told from a predominantly female perspective. Putting the women of Greek mythology front and center, Rhiannon gives voices to the women who were often pushed to the margins of history, or even completely erased from it. The powerless, the victims, the nameless women of Greek mythology instead are the protagonists of our story acting as mothers, wives, sisters, mistresses, lovers, goddesses, and villains behind the scenes who’s lives inadvertently influenced the fall of Troy.
Instead of being reduced to bodies plundered in war and stolen as trophies, these women are given their agency, acting as key players in the war rather than mere spectators.
The writing style really lends itself to the storytelling, mimicking that of classic texts historical texts although in places it slips into more modern dialogue that can feel a bit jarring. But these instances are few and far in between.
As the story is told from the women’s perspectives, there is certainly a little bit of maneuvering involved in order to make the characters decisions line up with the mythological events. However, it can feel a little frustrating when certain characters seemingly change overnight in order to better fit the narrative. As we are dealing with such a large cast, time spent away from certain characters lead them to make rapid changes off screen which can seem a little abrupt when we return back to their story. But that’s mostly a personal issue that I’ve had with this book.
Apart from that, Song of Sacrifice is an excellent retelling of classic Greek Mythology from a feminist perspective. It is lyrical in style and rhythm, and an almost compulsive read. Highly recommended! 4 Stars.
_
You Should Read This If You Like: Greek mythology, alternative historical fiction, feminist retelling, Circe or The Song of Achilles, stories of Gods and men, The Odyssey, etc.
Song of Sacrifice chronicles the events leading up to the fall of Troy all the way from the birth of Paris. It is a retelling of sorts. While we see a lot of the key figures of the war from the infamous Odysseys, Agamemnon, Achilles, etc. make their appearances, the story is told from a predominantly female perspective. Putting the women of Greek mythology front and center, Rhiannon gives voices to the women who were often pushed to the margins of history, or even completely erased from it. The powerless, the victims, the nameless women of Greek mythology instead are the protagonists of our story acting as mothers, wives, sisters, mistresses, lovers, goddesses, and villains behind the scenes who’s lives inadvertently influenced the fall of Troy.
Instead of being reduced to bodies plundered in war and stolen as trophies, these women are given their agency, acting as key players in the war rather than mere spectators.
The writing style really lends itself to the storytelling, mimicking that of classic texts historical texts although in places it slips into more modern dialogue that can feel a bit jarring. But these instances are few and far in between.
As the story is told from the women’s perspectives, there is certainly a little bit of maneuvering involved in order to make the characters decisions line up with the mythological events. However, it can feel a little frustrating when certain characters seemingly change overnight in order to better fit the narrative. As we are dealing with such a large cast, time spent away from certain characters lead them to make rapid changes off screen which can seem a little abrupt when we return back to their story. But that’s mostly a personal issue that I’ve had with this book.
Apart from that, Song of Sacrifice is an excellent retelling of classic Greek Mythology from a feminist perspective. It is lyrical in style and rhythm, and an almost compulsive read. Highly recommended! 4 Stars.
_
April 3, 2019
5 stars well deserved 👏🏻
Thanks to Netgalley for the free copy of the book!
I devoured this book. I am big fan of Greek myths and I particularly love The Iliad and The Odyssey by Homer.
We all know these stories and still the author had a grip on me and I wanted to know how she would write their destiny. Her writing is beautiful, lyrical, as it should be.
She made me love characters I didn't like before. The way she showed that none of them are masters of their destiny brings so much more empathy.
Greek Gods have a big part in the story since they are characters in it, they intervened, they provoked everything that happened, like bored children in Olympia, they wanted a better game : a war.
This book takes place before the war. We have the perspectives of all the characters that plays a role (even a small one) in the Trojan War. How they're all bound by destiny, how this war will impact them all.
I loved to see their lives closely, feel what they were feeling. It made me feel as powerless as them.
It was beautifully done.
I'm so impatient to read the second book that will take place in Troy, for the said war.
Thanks to Netgalley for the free copy of the book!
I devoured this book. I am big fan of Greek myths and I particularly love The Iliad and The Odyssey by Homer.
We all know these stories and still the author had a grip on me and I wanted to know how she would write their destiny. Her writing is beautiful, lyrical, as it should be.
She made me love characters I didn't like before. The way she showed that none of them are masters of their destiny brings so much more empathy.
Greek Gods have a big part in the story since they are characters in it, they intervened, they provoked everything that happened, like bored children in Olympia, they wanted a better game : a war.
This book takes place before the war. We have the perspectives of all the characters that plays a role (even a small one) in the Trojan War. How they're all bound by destiny, how this war will impact them all.
I loved to see their lives closely, feel what they were feeling. It made me feel as powerless as them.
It was beautifully done.
I'm so impatient to read the second book that will take place in Troy, for the said war.
March 30, 2020
Page-turner, but the speed sacrifices character development. The only characters I felt I got to know a bit better were Hecuba and Paris, all the others feel like flat actors entering, performing their action and exiting again. It’s especially disappointing with Helen. The story is about women and Helen is the most central one in the Troy story. Yet based on the book I have absolutely no clue about what kind of person Helen might have been.
October 18, 2016
I must admit from the start of this book I loved it. I really liked the idea that the gods walked among us and that they played out there games with humans as their pawns.
This is book one in the series and it focuses on the period preceding the Trojan war. Priam being forced by the gods to kill his new born son Paris in order to save troy..but things do not go to plan..the gods like to play games and someone else has other plans for this baby.
Paris ultimately survives early life in the care of Agelaus..the person instructed to kill the boy. He falls in love with a nymph over a period of time and it’s a very touching story between the two of them with his lover knowing all along they could never be together forever but hoping the fates would be wrong
The next and for me very powerful scene for me is when Paris is forced to pick which goddess is thinks is the most beautiful of all.. of course things don’t go the way he would like and in the end his prize for choosing is the love of the most beautiful woman in the world..who is not yet born.. Helen..
We also learn of Achilles and his birth also to a nymph and there’s a great scene where Thetis his mother plans to change the fate of her son who is to die young on the battlefield with his name living on or living to an old age with nothing of worth ever happening in his life, dying an unknown. She goes about trying to gain her son the power of the gods..things never go to plan though do they
From here Paris grows up, strong, fast and the more he grows the more he looks like his brother Hektor. Soon enough things unravel and Paris is welcomed back into the royal family
What I really enjoyed about this book is that it’s took the political aspects of the tale away, stripped in down and really made use of the myths surrounding the gods and made this more into an unwanted love story.. Paris is destined by the gods to fall in love with Helen and I just loved this approach to the tale
Paris is sent away on a mission on behalf of Priam and meet Helen and things will never be the same again
Cassandra had a very moving portrayal for me..actually being abused by a god who then cruelly leaves her with visions of the future but also curses her that no one will ever believe her.. she knows
Troy will fall but there is nothing she can do about it
For me what really shines with the tale is ultimately the Greek mythology and how the author portrays the gods.You really fear the games they might play.. I won’t spoil it for you as a reader but It was a fascinating way to tell the tale and the fact the author left the tale where she did has definitely left me wanting to get the next book in the series to see how she continues the tale. I can’t wait to see if some of the gods actually walk around the battlefield..
A real refreshing take and well written adult tale that I really did enjoy. I need to read more..
If you’re looking for a different take on the story of Troy or like the idea of a tale where gods can walk among us then take a look at this!
This is book one in the series and it focuses on the period preceding the Trojan war. Priam being forced by the gods to kill his new born son Paris in order to save troy..but things do not go to plan..the gods like to play games and someone else has other plans for this baby.
Paris ultimately survives early life in the care of Agelaus..the person instructed to kill the boy. He falls in love with a nymph over a period of time and it’s a very touching story between the two of them with his lover knowing all along they could never be together forever but hoping the fates would be wrong
The next and for me very powerful scene for me is when Paris is forced to pick which goddess is thinks is the most beautiful of all.. of course things don’t go the way he would like and in the end his prize for choosing is the love of the most beautiful woman in the world..who is not yet born.. Helen..
We also learn of Achilles and his birth also to a nymph and there’s a great scene where Thetis his mother plans to change the fate of her son who is to die young on the battlefield with his name living on or living to an old age with nothing of worth ever happening in his life, dying an unknown. She goes about trying to gain her son the power of the gods..things never go to plan though do they
From here Paris grows up, strong, fast and the more he grows the more he looks like his brother Hektor. Soon enough things unravel and Paris is welcomed back into the royal family
What I really enjoyed about this book is that it’s took the political aspects of the tale away, stripped in down and really made use of the myths surrounding the gods and made this more into an unwanted love story.. Paris is destined by the gods to fall in love with Helen and I just loved this approach to the tale
Paris is sent away on a mission on behalf of Priam and meet Helen and things will never be the same again
Cassandra had a very moving portrayal for me..actually being abused by a god who then cruelly leaves her with visions of the future but also curses her that no one will ever believe her.. she knows
Troy will fall but there is nothing she can do about it
For me what really shines with the tale is ultimately the Greek mythology and how the author portrays the gods.You really fear the games they might play.. I won’t spoil it for you as a reader but It was a fascinating way to tell the tale and the fact the author left the tale where she did has definitely left me wanting to get the next book in the series to see how she continues the tale. I can’t wait to see if some of the gods actually walk around the battlefield..
A real refreshing take and well written adult tale that I really did enjoy. I need to read more..
If you’re looking for a different take on the story of Troy or like the idea of a tale where gods can walk among us then take a look at this!
May 24, 2019
Okay I thought I'd be able to power through if I just took my time, but...oh my god. I don't care if this is considered a spoiler, people need to KNOW if they're going to read this. There's a scene where a woman who has recently given birth is feeding her newborn and her (terrible) husband comes in the room and becomes HORNY AND JEALOUS of his son breast feeding. So he demands she STOP FEEDING THE BABY and start BREAST FEEDING HIM & makes her manually get him off at the same time. And then she forgets how much she hates him just long enough to start masTURBATING TOO. I'm not okay right now. Sorry for inflicting my trauma on others.
I check on both Netgalley & Goodreads and neither acknowledge the insane number of sex scenes in this book. I'm already not a huge Romance genre person, but this was straight up Erotica. I didn't do a mathematical analysis, but it felt like at least 50% sex, 30% being terrible to women (lots of overlap here) & 20% God/Goddess shenanigans. I'm just kind of disappointed because it was advertised as Historical Fiction/Fantasy and....I just didn't get that.
I'll admit I think most written sex scenes are just awkward af to read. And reading this only worsened my view of them. But seriously, every scene was written the same. Young girl/virgin/new bride is nervous about their forced marriage to an old, aggressive rape monster. He tells her to lighten up. He licks nipples. He places erection against her unwilling body. She has a miraculous sexual awakening and MUST HAVE HIM INSIDE HER IMMEDIATELY. Moaning. Trembling. Simultaneous earth-shattering orgasm.~*~Fin.
Also, the phrase "take me" was said by every woman/girl at some point and I just can't. I never want to hear those two words together again. Other words that were used repeatedly and egregiously that I've now banned:
-suckling
-harden[-ing][-ed]
-seed
-member
-moan
-buds (nipples...ugh)
-wet flesh
-cock/thighs/breasts for the next week at least
I read this because I've been on the wait list for The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller for 3 months at my library and I wanted to get my fix. This...wasn't what I was looking for. I'm sure Ms. Rhiannon is the perfect writer for someone, but just not for me.
*Thanks to Xpresso Book Tours & Netgalley for an advance copy!
I check on both Netgalley & Goodreads and neither acknowledge the insane number of sex scenes in this book. I'm already not a huge Romance genre person, but this was straight up Erotica. I didn't do a mathematical analysis, but it felt like at least 50% sex, 30% being terrible to women (lots of overlap here) & 20% God/Goddess shenanigans. I'm just kind of disappointed because it was advertised as Historical Fiction/Fantasy and....I just didn't get that.
I'll admit I think most written sex scenes are just awkward af to read. And reading this only worsened my view of them. But seriously, every scene was written the same. Young girl/virgin/new bride is nervous about their forced marriage to an old, aggressive rape monster. He tells her to lighten up. He licks nipples. He places erection against her unwilling body. She has a miraculous sexual awakening and MUST HAVE HIM INSIDE HER IMMEDIATELY. Moaning. Trembling. Simultaneous earth-shattering orgasm.~*~Fin.
Also, the phrase "take me" was said by every woman/girl at some point and I just can't. I never want to hear those two words together again. Other words that were used repeatedly and egregiously that I've now banned:
-suckling
-harden[-ing][-ed]
-seed
-member
-moan
-buds (nipples...ugh)
-wet flesh
-cock/thighs/breasts for the next week at least
I read this because I've been on the wait list for The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller for 3 months at my library and I wanted to get my fix. This...wasn't what I was looking for. I'm sure Ms. Rhiannon is the perfect writer for someone, but just not for me.
*Thanks to Xpresso Book Tours & Netgalley for an advance copy!
February 12, 2021
I debated whether to rate this book two or three stars. I’m leaving it at three for now.
I think this book would have benefitted from several more rounds of editing. The frequent grammar and spelling errors made me take one entire star off. I can understand a couple slipping through the cracks, we’re human and miss things after all, but each chapter had a few, showing that any editing done was lazy and shoddy at best.
I’d also have to agree with several other reviewers, while this book is being touted as a feminist take on The Iliad, with the women of the mythology being the lens of the story—I didn’t find that to be honest. The women are not individualized, if we removed names I think we’d find it hard to discern which woman is “speaking.” Frankly, the goddesses have more characterization than the mortal women, which is a wasted opportunity. We get few if any of the women’s true motivations, opinions, and thoughts. I know several people complained about the several sex scenes and while that’s not my issue, the fact that it seems that that is what the author relies on to help characterize the women is an issue to me. I think sex can be a powerful, feminist experience, especially given the historical gender roles that women were forced to adhere to in this world, but absolutely none of the women had or felt that. The sex scenes are also very similar despite the differing characters, and the rape and abuse that goes on between a few of the sexual relationships. Those scenes could have been compelling for a multitude of reasons, instead they were dull and passive.
The men tell the story just as much as the women do in this book, which again, shows a wasted opportunity on the author’s part...and also proves that this book sadly isn’t a feminist take or a book told wholly through the voices of the women. I’ll read the next two books but only to see a myth I love through, but I will sadly have to temper my expectations.
I think this book would have benefitted from several more rounds of editing. The frequent grammar and spelling errors made me take one entire star off. I can understand a couple slipping through the cracks, we’re human and miss things after all, but each chapter had a few, showing that any editing done was lazy and shoddy at best.
I’d also have to agree with several other reviewers, while this book is being touted as a feminist take on The Iliad, with the women of the mythology being the lens of the story—I didn’t find that to be honest. The women are not individualized, if we removed names I think we’d find it hard to discern which woman is “speaking.” Frankly, the goddesses have more characterization than the mortal women, which is a wasted opportunity. We get few if any of the women’s true motivations, opinions, and thoughts. I know several people complained about the several sex scenes and while that’s not my issue, the fact that it seems that that is what the author relies on to help characterize the women is an issue to me. I think sex can be a powerful, feminist experience, especially given the historical gender roles that women were forced to adhere to in this world, but absolutely none of the women had or felt that. The sex scenes are also very similar despite the differing characters, and the rape and abuse that goes on between a few of the sexual relationships. Those scenes could have been compelling for a multitude of reasons, instead they were dull and passive.
The men tell the story just as much as the women do in this book, which again, shows a wasted opportunity on the author’s part...and also proves that this book sadly isn’t a feminist take or a book told wholly through the voices of the women. I’ll read the next two books but only to see a myth I love through, but I will sadly have to temper my expectations.
May 2, 2019
Wow. I am a huge fan of classical antiquity and I've read many retellings/interpretations of the Trojan war. This is by far my favourite so far. There was never a dull moment. The book read like an epic high fantasy novel and I loved being able to picture all these events coming to life so vividly. I found myself invested in all the characters and I can't wait for the next book to pick up where Song of Sacrifice left off.
March 22, 2019
“While you live, hope exists. It’s only hidden beneath your pain.”
Oh my god, I really think it’s so cruel to finish this book with Iphigenia’s sacrifice; I cried all my tears. Clytemnestra’s and Briseis’ stories are the one that touched me more. They are full of loss and desperation that I really identified myself with them and I felt all their pain! This way to rewrite stories that everyone knows with so much attention to women’s point of view is really exciting and makes them even more real and actual.
Oh my god, I really think it’s so cruel to finish this book with Iphigenia’s sacrifice; I cried all my tears. Clytemnestra’s and Briseis’ stories are the one that touched me more. They are full of loss and desperation that I really identified myself with them and I felt all their pain! This way to rewrite stories that everyone knows with so much attention to women’s point of view is really exciting and makes them even more real and actual.
May 26, 2020
Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a copy of this novel via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Oh my goodness...this hidden gem was an unexpected delight! This retelling of the Trojan war was written from the perspective of multiple key characters (e.g. Hekuba, Paris, and Clytemnestra), but it did not feel too "busy", confusing or overwhelming despite the fact that the author transitioned between third person narratives on a frequent basis. Reading this felt like looking at a Renaissance painting of Classical Mythology. Rhiannon had a different interpretation of some of the individuals that I have become familiar with through other stories, but it was effective and believable; the characters were vibrant and really came to life. Even the gods and goddesses were realistically depicted in the anthropomorphic way that people of ancient Greece would have envisioned them as well. Rhiannon clearly did her research when writing this novel.
As enthralled as I was with this Homeric tale, I found that some of the stories in this woven tapestry of stories occasionally came up short. The end of some chapters felt premature, and I can understand how some individuals would be overwhelmed by the amount of characters at play here. (Having a degree in classics helped me sort everyone out, but I was already familiar with the epic this book is based on). It ends on a kind of cliffhanger ("kind of" because if you know the story of the Trojan war you know what happens next), but I want the second novel so bad. I would consider adding a permanent copy of this to my collection, that is how much I enjoyed reading it.
*As much fun as I had reading this novel, be warned: there was an obscene amount of sex and sexual references (what is with all the breast caressing, grabbing, admiring?) including rape/assault. That may trigger some readers, but "rape" is a common occurrence in a number of Greek mythological stories.*
Oh my goodness...this hidden gem was an unexpected delight! This retelling of the Trojan war was written from the perspective of multiple key characters (e.g. Hekuba, Paris, and Clytemnestra), but it did not feel too "busy", confusing or overwhelming despite the fact that the author transitioned between third person narratives on a frequent basis. Reading this felt like looking at a Renaissance painting of Classical Mythology. Rhiannon had a different interpretation of some of the individuals that I have become familiar with through other stories, but it was effective and believable; the characters were vibrant and really came to life. Even the gods and goddesses were realistically depicted in the anthropomorphic way that people of ancient Greece would have envisioned them as well. Rhiannon clearly did her research when writing this novel.
As enthralled as I was with this Homeric tale, I found that some of the stories in this woven tapestry of stories occasionally came up short. The end of some chapters felt premature, and I can understand how some individuals would be overwhelmed by the amount of characters at play here. (Having a degree in classics helped me sort everyone out, but I was already familiar with the epic this book is based on). It ends on a kind of cliffhanger ("kind of" because if you know the story of the Trojan war you know what happens next), but I want the second novel so bad. I would consider adding a permanent copy of this to my collection, that is how much I enjoyed reading it.
*As much fun as I had reading this novel, be warned: there was an obscene amount of sex and sexual references (what is with all the breast caressing, grabbing, admiring?) including rape/assault. That may trigger some readers, but "rape" is a common occurrence in a number of Greek mythological stories.*
July 30, 2020
YES!
I will never tire of retellings of The Iliad, and this one is beautiful. The focus on the women and their sacrifices makes this one of the better adaptations of myth I’ve ever read.
I will never tire of retellings of The Iliad, and this one is beautiful. The focus on the women and their sacrifices makes this one of the better adaptations of myth I’ve ever read.
September 24, 2020
If you are a Greek mythology enthusiast, I cannot recommend this more. I do recommend a little prior knowledge of the characters just so you don’t get lost within the story as there are A LOT of characters.
I truly cannot believe I took over a year to pick this one up. This is one of the better retellings I have read, it may even be my favourite. There was just something about this book that kept me wanting to read more and more. I will admit, it was the cover and mythology that made me want to read this in the first place, but it was everything that else that kept me wanting to read this. The writing style was mesmerizing.
While I don't often find myself enjoying works that have many perspectives and follow so many characters, I found that this was the reason I think I loved this so much. The incorporation of the female perspectives really made this complete for me, it made me able to sympathize with the events that much more. I felt reading in each perspective almost kept the book alive, we were following the progression of the world and development of the war itself and not just the characters.
While this novel is certainly not faultless, I couldn't give anything less than 5 stars because the enjoyment I had while reading it was so immense, it rekindled my love for the Greek tragedies and epics. I appreciate the fact that the stories were told in chronological order too. Overall, an amazing retelling.
I truly cannot believe I took over a year to pick this one up. This is one of the better retellings I have read, it may even be my favourite. There was just something about this book that kept me wanting to read more and more. I will admit, it was the cover and mythology that made me want to read this in the first place, but it was everything that else that kept me wanting to read this. The writing style was mesmerizing.
While I don't often find myself enjoying works that have many perspectives and follow so many characters, I found that this was the reason I think I loved this so much. The incorporation of the female perspectives really made this complete for me, it made me able to sympathize with the events that much more. I felt reading in each perspective almost kept the book alive, we were following the progression of the world and development of the war itself and not just the characters.
While this novel is certainly not faultless, I couldn't give anything less than 5 stars because the enjoyment I had while reading it was so immense, it rekindled my love for the Greek tragedies and epics. I appreciate the fact that the stories were told in chronological order too. Overall, an amazing retelling.
March 18, 2017
I received an e-copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.
Of course, this book is a retelling of a very old tale, so you know what’s going to happen right from the start. However, that doesn’t make it any less amazing. Janell Rhiannon clearly made her research, and provides the reader with so many details, it is impossible not to get drawn into the story.
I thought it was an very interesting take on the original story. I usually envision the Trojans as the “villains” of the Trojan war, because Paris is the one who captured Helen, and the Illiad and the Odyssey are told from the Greeks’ point of view. However, in Song of Princes, Trojans are at the center of the story most of the time, and they are portrayed in such a human way it is impossible not to like them. And even more importantly, all human characters are presented as simple pawns of the Greek Gods. They are at their mercy, and do whatever they are told. It is impossible to avoid the prophecy. But that made the book really enjoyable. In a way, you are placed into the position of the gods themselves: you see them struggle, trying to avoid their fates, the prophecies, and in the end it’s impossible.
The character portrayals in this book are excellent. I don’t know how else to put it. This book has a lot of diverse characters, they are all so different, and so human each in their own way, and that makes it extremely interesting. Really, congratulations to Janell Rhiannon for this, I can’t wait to read more about all of them! I particularly liked the emphasis on the femaly characters such as Hecuba and Clytemnestra, I think the chapters about them were my favourites.
Finally, I wanted to say that I really enjoyed this book, and would totally recommend it. The only reason why I didn’t give it 5 stars is because some of the male characters were too rude and brutal for my taste. I know it totally made sense in this context, and I respect that. It just was a bit frustrating to me. But overall, this was an incredible read! I just love mythology so much, and boy, I was not disappointed with this! Keep up the good work, Rhiannon, I will be watching out for your next release!
Full review on my blog: https://clemisbookishworld.wordpress....
Of course, this book is a retelling of a very old tale, so you know what’s going to happen right from the start. However, that doesn’t make it any less amazing. Janell Rhiannon clearly made her research, and provides the reader with so many details, it is impossible not to get drawn into the story.
I thought it was an very interesting take on the original story. I usually envision the Trojans as the “villains” of the Trojan war, because Paris is the one who captured Helen, and the Illiad and the Odyssey are told from the Greeks’ point of view. However, in Song of Princes, Trojans are at the center of the story most of the time, and they are portrayed in such a human way it is impossible not to like them. And even more importantly, all human characters are presented as simple pawns of the Greek Gods. They are at their mercy, and do whatever they are told. It is impossible to avoid the prophecy. But that made the book really enjoyable. In a way, you are placed into the position of the gods themselves: you see them struggle, trying to avoid their fates, the prophecies, and in the end it’s impossible.
The character portrayals in this book are excellent. I don’t know how else to put it. This book has a lot of diverse characters, they are all so different, and so human each in their own way, and that makes it extremely interesting. Really, congratulations to Janell Rhiannon for this, I can’t wait to read more about all of them! I particularly liked the emphasis on the femaly characters such as Hecuba and Clytemnestra, I think the chapters about them were my favourites.
Finally, I wanted to say that I really enjoyed this book, and would totally recommend it. The only reason why I didn’t give it 5 stars is because some of the male characters were too rude and brutal for my taste. I know it totally made sense in this context, and I respect that. It just was a bit frustrating to me. But overall, this was an incredible read! I just love mythology so much, and boy, I was not disappointed with this! Keep up the good work, Rhiannon, I will be watching out for your next release!
Full review on my blog: https://clemisbookishworld.wordpress....
June 1, 2019
I wanted to like this book. I really did. A retelling of several different tales from Greek mythology? With what sounded like a heavy focus on the females of Greek legend? Count me in! This book, however, just did not do it for me.
The writing. *sigh* The writing... At times, it was engaging and easy to read, but, for most of the book, it was just a slog. There were bits were I found myself really enjoying how this author strung her words together, but most of it was a snoozefest. And can we talk about the copious sex scenes?! I have no problem with a well-written sex scene, you can throw those at me all ya like. But these were just... so cringy and distasteful and they would. not. stop. This is just my personal tastes, but I can't get behind a sex scene where the phrase "He felt his cock stiffen" is thrown in. Multiple times. Just... please stop. Also, it just wasn't what I was expecting after reading the synopsis so that threw me off, as well.
The characters and the plot suffered from too many things trying to be described at once. I didn't care about any of these characters because the author was trying to tell so many stories at once that everyone just got lost in the shuffle. I found myself having to remind myself of who characters were and where we were at in their story each time the prospective jumped around. It took me out of the story and, I think, contributed to why I found the whole book dull. I will say there were some characters I enjoyed reading about more than others. I really enjoyed the time spent in Troy at the beginning and following Hecuba's tale as well as Paris'. I don't know if that's because they were the first ones we start reading about or if their stories were just more engaging, but I wish that we could have gotten more into their characters. I honestly think this book would have benefited from being one narrative and sticking to it.
I did enjoy the mythological setting and how this author plays with traditional Greek mythology. I just don't think this book matched it's synopsis all that well and that was disappointing.
The writing. *sigh* The writing... At times, it was engaging and easy to read, but, for most of the book, it was just a slog. There were bits were I found myself really enjoying how this author strung her words together, but most of it was a snoozefest. And can we talk about the copious sex scenes?! I have no problem with a well-written sex scene, you can throw those at me all ya like. But these were just... so cringy and distasteful and they would. not. stop. This is just my personal tastes, but I can't get behind a sex scene where the phrase "He felt his cock stiffen" is thrown in. Multiple times. Just... please stop. Also, it just wasn't what I was expecting after reading the synopsis so that threw me off, as well.
The characters and the plot suffered from too many things trying to be described at once. I didn't care about any of these characters because the author was trying to tell so many stories at once that everyone just got lost in the shuffle. I found myself having to remind myself of who characters were and where we were at in their story each time the prospective jumped around. It took me out of the story and, I think, contributed to why I found the whole book dull. I will say there were some characters I enjoyed reading about more than others. I really enjoyed the time spent in Troy at the beginning and following Hecuba's tale as well as Paris'. I don't know if that's because they were the first ones we start reading about or if their stories were just more engaging, but I wish that we could have gotten more into their characters. I honestly think this book would have benefited from being one narrative and sticking to it.
I did enjoy the mythological setting and how this author plays with traditional Greek mythology. I just don't think this book matched it's synopsis all that well and that was disappointing.
March 29, 2019
When I realized that this book was to be read next, I hesitated a moment. I had just finished reading Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller. Clearly, the writing style would be different, along with their interpretation and artistic license they would take. While being comprised of the same story of Homer’s, each author took the characters in slightly different directions. In Song of Sacrifice, by Janell Rhiannon, we are blessed with the point of view of many characters whose actions and fates, unbeknownst to them, entwine to cause the end result of war in Troy. To be honest, at times there simply feels like there are too many characters and points of view to keep track of. Being familiar with Homer’s Iliad made it much easier for me to follow along and know what is happening, but may be more difficult for those who are new to the story.
Achilles is often portrayed in a variety of was when his story is told. In some books, such as Song of Achilles, he is often portrayed as aloof with most people, but fiercely protective and loving of those whom he bonds with. In Song of Sacrifice, Achilles is portrayed as a bit of a stuck up and spoiled child. He is wild of spirit and gives his teachers a hard time. He is always getting into mischief (as most boys are wont to do) and not caring about the repercussions. In this retelling, we are blessed with seeing the mothers of the key players in the Trojan War before they have their famous children.
Full review available on:
https://celticslibrary.wixsite.com/we...
Achilles is often portrayed in a variety of was when his story is told. In some books, such as Song of Achilles, he is often portrayed as aloof with most people, but fiercely protective and loving of those whom he bonds with. In Song of Sacrifice, Achilles is portrayed as a bit of a stuck up and spoiled child. He is wild of spirit and gives his teachers a hard time. He is always getting into mischief (as most boys are wont to do) and not caring about the repercussions. In this retelling, we are blessed with seeing the mothers of the key players in the Trojan War before they have their famous children.
Full review available on:
https://celticslibrary.wixsite.com/we...
March 19, 2022
I loved all the extra scenes and chapters. Now let's go find book 2 =)
April 11, 2019
Finished reading: April 9th 2019
"The more time passes, the more keenly we feel our losses carved into our very soul, even as the memories fade around the edges."
*** A copy of this book was kindly provided to me by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! ***
P.S. Find more of my reviews here.
November 16, 2019
I am going to spoil the end of this review by mentioning, from the first line, that this is a 5 stars book. Also, I do what to mention that I am very much in love with Greek mythology and especially with this particular story, with Troy and all it represented.
My first real book was one describing Troy and its destiny. I was too little to understand even the meaning of some of the words. Only after finishing the story, I started reading more about the Greek mythology and I loved it so so much. I fell in love with reading with these stories.
Now, back to “Song of Sacrifice”. This book was absolutely amazing. It’s a tribute to this land of gods. It does so much justice to the legends and it brings out the most beautiful elements in it. I have devoured it and could not stop reading. Actually, I don’t understand why it had to end. I know the legend, I would never have imagined it put in a book in this way. And it twists the myth in all angles so that we have an even better picture of how it all went out.
It’s like being there. Honestly, it’s like finding out more things about the characters I’ve grown up with. But my connection with the story is not only due to my childhood experience. Janell Rhiannon has such a captivating way of using words. It’s like a spell, she put a spell on me. And the cover fits so well.
Everything fits here. The poem in the beginning (yes, it has a poem, I’m sorry I’m spoiling a little) it’s like a gateway to this amazing world. Then all the strong women, mothers, queens, goddesses… oh, how many interesting elements. I liked it, ok.
Guys, please read it, please read the legend first and then read “Song of Sacrifice”. This book is beautiful, interesting, has politics and political games, love affairs and many turns. To some, it may come to no surprise what happens, but how we get there is one interesting journey. I am so happy to have read the book and even happier to know that book 2 will be out in March!!!! Excuse me while I try to preorder it! (how do I get a hardback for this series…. ?)
My first real book was one describing Troy and its destiny. I was too little to understand even the meaning of some of the words. Only after finishing the story, I started reading more about the Greek mythology and I loved it so so much. I fell in love with reading with these stories.
Now, back to “Song of Sacrifice”. This book was absolutely amazing. It’s a tribute to this land of gods. It does so much justice to the legends and it brings out the most beautiful elements in it. I have devoured it and could not stop reading. Actually, I don’t understand why it had to end. I know the legend, I would never have imagined it put in a book in this way. And it twists the myth in all angles so that we have an even better picture of how it all went out.
It’s like being there. Honestly, it’s like finding out more things about the characters I’ve grown up with. But my connection with the story is not only due to my childhood experience. Janell Rhiannon has such a captivating way of using words. It’s like a spell, she put a spell on me. And the cover fits so well.
Everything fits here. The poem in the beginning (yes, it has a poem, I’m sorry I’m spoiling a little) it’s like a gateway to this amazing world. Then all the strong women, mothers, queens, goddesses… oh, how many interesting elements. I liked it, ok.
Guys, please read it, please read the legend first and then read “Song of Sacrifice”. This book is beautiful, interesting, has politics and political games, love affairs and many turns. To some, it may come to no surprise what happens, but how we get there is one interesting journey. I am so happy to have read the book and even happier to know that book 2 will be out in March!!!! Excuse me while I try to preorder it! (how do I get a hardback for this series…. ?)
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