Clytemnestra The spellbinding retelling of Greek mythology's greatest heroine

There are so many retellings of Greek myths that mostly focus on getting everything right, to stick as closely as possible to the traditions so as not to be falsified by experts. Sure, that might be a valid approach, but I usually find those novels somewhat bland. "Clytemnestra" is not of that ilk. Yes, the basic elements of her story are all there, her connections to Leda, Helen, Castor, Polydeuces, Agamemnon, Iphigenia, Orestes, Electra and Aigisthos figure prominently into the plot, but I don't think I have ever come across a friendship between her and Odysseus that gives depth to several plot points. Also her sister Timandra, little more than a name in mythology, is a very important relationship for Clytemnestra. Not to mention several original characters whose impact on the plot I do not want to give away. The gods do not appear here, which I found disappointing at first, but it makes a lot of sense. Clytemnestra lives in a somewhat senseless world where love is rare and loyalty not much more frequent. Survival is among the characters' key motivations, and that would not hit the same if there were omnipotent gods involved. Of all retellings I have come across so far, Jennifer Saint's "Hera" is still my favorite, but "Clytemnestra" is a close second.

I cannot begin to explain what this book did to me, but I am so glad I read it! Clytemnestra is a true warrior, a character you get to know in her full form. You truly grow and grief with her over the horrible things that happen to her and her family. Some might see her actions as morally grey, but I honestly sympathize with her: good for her!