Miller, M: Circe

One of my forever favourites, absolutely stunning! I read this before TSOA and although I liked both, I like Circe more because I identify more with Circe's person, and the plot is less about her love life and more about her power as a witch!

Die etwas andere Göttin Circe erkämpft sich durch ihre Hexerei eine Unabhängigkeit der Götter und spielt bei deren Spielchen nicht mit. Stattdessen lernt sie viel über die Menschen und erkennt sich selbst in ihnen wieder. Ein großartiger Roman über eine großartige Göttin!

After reading „The Song of Achilles“ by Madeline Miller I couldn’t wait to read „Circe“. I love stories about Greek mythology, no matter if the author gives the myth a new twist or decides on a creative retelling. Not all of those stories are good, but „Circe“ didn’t just exceed my expectations, it was my best read of 2018. I enjoyed everything about it, the characterization of Circe, the poetic language and the emotions conveyed through the perfect choice of words. Madeline Miller did a lot of research to do the myth of Circe justice. With her two bestsellers she’s surely become one of my favourite authors. A must read for anyone who loves mythology… and everyone who would like to give it a try. (And I loved the Easter Egg to Song of Achilles! Maybe you'll find it too?)

In this story, Circe begins her life a shunned member of her family, mocked at every turn and ridiculed for showing weakness. She grows into her power much later, after being humiliated and punished by both gods and mortal men. In exile she learns how to use her witchcraft - turning to vengeance and growing into a fearful witch, tired of men’s cruel games. Yet somehow she still manages to show empathy for those who have kindness in their hearts... Such an amazing, fresh look on the tale of Circe, a woman who’s fed up with always being handed the short end of the stick. This beautifully designed hardcover edition is also too pretty to pass up. It's now one of the prettiest books I own.

So I really really honestly loved this so much! Greek Mythology is like my favorite mythology, and I love the way this is told like one! Or, well, written. It had me captivated from page one - I love Circes growth and how she hadles all that is hurled her way. She is not a perfect goddess in any sense, and she embraces her flaws and just wants to be different, wants to be herself. I had not anticipated the way it would end and I loved that as well! If you love Greek Mythology and badass women, you will totally love this. <3