A Sea of Sorrow: A Novel of Odysseus is a collection of short stories retelling the epic tale of The Odyssey through the eyes of various characters such as Penelope, Telemachus, Circe, and Calypso. The book offers a unique and clever concept, providing a realistic twist to the mythology and supernatural elements, making the stories more stunning and engaging. The narratives explore the dangers of life on Ithaca, the struggles of waiting for Odysseus to return, and the interactions with gods and mythical creatures in a fresh and captivating way.

The writing style in A Sea of Sorrow is praised for its original spins on venerable myths, captivating storytelling, and engaging characters. The book successfully brings to life the shattered victims of The Odyssey, allowing readers to experience the well-known story from a different perspective. The authors skillfully blend historical fiction with fantastical elements, creating a seamless reimagining of Odysseus's journey home after the fall of Troy.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is engaging and diverse, with each author bringing their unique perspective and emotional depth.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot uniquely retells the Odyssey through the eyes of various characters, emphasizing realism over mythology.

Setting:

The setting is rooted in the aftermath of the Trojan War, focusing on familiar mythological locations but with a realistic twist.

Pacing:

Pacing varies throughout, with some stories feeling slow, yet the overall narrative keeps readers engaged.

It was one of her father-in-law’s men, a wizened warrior with white-streaked hair and scowl lines scored deeply into his weathered forehead. He held two squirming, cursing boys by the neck, presenting...

Genres:

historical fiction

mythology

anthology

Topics:

the fall of troy

odysseus's journey

greek gods

mythological characters

Notes:

The book is a compilation of stories about Odysseus, retold from the perspectives of those he encountered during his journey.

It features contributions from six different authors, making it a collaborative work.

The authors include David Blixt, Amalia Carosella, Libbie Hawker, Scott Oden, Vicky Alvear Shecter, and Russell Whitfield.

Readers found the storytelling to be realistic, moving away from the fantastical elements of traditional Greek mythology.

Some standout stories include 'Hekate’s Daughter,' 'The Siren’s Song,' and 'Calypso’s Vow,' which left a strong impression on readers.

The book explores the idea of how mythical events can be explained through mundane reality rather than divine intervention.

Penelope and Telemachus are significant characters, providing insight into the struggles on Ithaca during Odysseus's absence.

The author Libbie Hawker’s portrayal of Circe was highly praised, described as divine and stunning.

David Blixt’s story about Calypso was also noted for its compelling narrative.

Overall, the book is recommended for fans of The Iliad and The Odyssey, providing a unique twist on familiar myths.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include themes of violence, loss, and emotional trauma, given the historical and mythological contexts.

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A Sea of Sorrow: A Novel of Odysseus

David Blixt