Books matching: mythological fiction
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- #1
Save:Bear Daughter by Judith Berman is a captivating Fantasy novel that follows the journey of Cloud, a young bear cub turned human girl, as she navigates the human world while embracing her bear heritage. The plot is fast-moving, exploring Cloud's emotional state and her quest to rescue her bear family's bones to rid the human world of corruption. Berman weaves a magical world filled with mysteries, themes of identity, loss, and mortality, creating a unique and immersive reading experience.
The book delves into the rich indigenous oral literature of the North American Northwest Coast, drawing inspiration from traditions like the Bear Mother Story. Through Cloud's adventures, Berman combines Native American spiritual mythology with a Western quest narrative, creating a story that evokes sensory worlds and profound forces, making it a powerfully experiential and epic read.
- #2
Save:In "Gods of Jade and Shadow" by Silvia Moreno-Garcia, the story follows Casiopea Tun, a young girl in 1920s rural Mexico, as she accidentally releases a Mayan god from his imprisonment. She embarks on a quest with the god, Hun Kam, to locate his missing body parts and restore his power, all while facing obstacles and adversaries along the way. The book seamlessly blends Mayan mythology with a Jazz Age setting, creating a fantastical tale of adventure, self-discovery, and the complexities of human and god relationships. The writing style is described as lush and evocative, with a mix of historical fiction and fantasy elements that keep readers engaged and immersed in the world of gods and mortals.
Some people are born under a lucky star, while others have their misfortune telegraphed by the position of the planets. Casiopea Tun, named after a constellation, was born under the most rotten star i... - #3
Save:'Last of the Amazons' by Steven Pressfield is a riveting tale that combines myth and history to narrate the story of legendary warrior women known as the Amazons. Set around 1250 BC, the plot revolves around the clash of cultures between the Greek civilization and the mythical Amazon society. The story follows King Theseus of Athens as he embarks on a journey that leads him to the land of the Amazons, where he falls in love with the Warrior Queen Antiope, triggering a series of events that culminate in a fierce battle between the Amazons and Athens. Pressfield's writing style intricately weaves together multiple perspectives, creating a complex narrative that delves into themes of warfare, heroism, and cultural clashes.
When I was a girl I had a nurse who was a tame Amazon. Of course such expression is a misnomer, as one of that race may be domesticated no more than an eagle or a she-wolf. Selene however (this was he... - #4
Save:'Warrior in Bronze' by George Shipway is a historical fiction novel set in ancient Greece, focusing on the life of Agamemnon before he becomes the King of Mycenae and his involvement in the events leading up to the Trojan War. The author weaves together Greek mythology and real historical events, portraying characters like Hercules and Zeus as flawed individuals rather than mythical figures. Shipway's writing style brings ancient Greece to life, depicting a brutal and treacherous world where only the strong survived.
The novel delves into the political intrigue, military strategies, and personal struggles of Agamemnon as he navigates through a society filled with betrayal, violence, and power struggles. Shipway's portrayal of Agamemnon's journey from a young boy to a cunning leader sheds light on the complexities of the era, offering a fresh perspective on Greek mythology and history through the eyes of a character who is neither entirely heroic nor likable.
- #5
Save:Sappho's Leap by Erica Jong is a biographical poetry work that celebrates the life of the great poetess Sappho. The book weaves together known facts about Sappho's life with fictional elements, creating a vivid portrayal of her experiences through Egypt and Greece, as well as in mythological realms. The story is narrated from Sappho's point of view, offering a unique perspective on the ancient gods and exploring themes of love, loss, passion, and independence.
The book delves into Sappho's travels, relationships, and encounters with fantastical creatures, all while highlighting the challenges faced by women in the ancient world. Through Sappho's journey, the author explores the complexities of female existence in a society where independence was a rare privilege, and where women navigated power dynamics through various means, including poetry and wit.
WHERE TO BEGIN MY story? The minstrels counsel us to begin in the midst of things where excitement is at its peak. Well, then, imagine me, trudging in a whipping, cold wind to the top of the Leucadian... - #6
Save:The Luck of Troy by Roger Lancelyn Green is a reimagined tale of the Trojan War, seen through the eyes of Nicostratos, the son of Helen and Menelaus. This unique perspective gives readers a glimpse of the famous events, such as the elopement of Helen, the quarrel between Achilles and Agamemnon, and the Trojan Horse, as young Nicostratos navigates his loyalties between the Greeks and the Trojans. The plot includes dynamic interactions among characters like Nicostratos, Helen, Polyxena, and his cousin Hermione, showcasing the complexities of relationships during a time of war.
Green's writing style is straightforward and accessible, making it suitable for both younger and older readers intrigued by ancient myths and historical fiction. While some characters are idealized, the narrative remains engaging, exploring themes of loyalty and identity. Despite minor critiques about the depth of character relationships, the book is filled with interesting facts and serves as a gentle introduction to the intricate world of Classical mythology.
- #7
Save:Isis by Douglas Clegg is a short supernatural horror novella set in an old mansion near Cornwall, England. The story follows a young girl named Iris Villiers who delves into forbidden rituals after a tragedy strikes her family, in an attempt to bring the dead back to life. As Iris navigates through dark forces and local legends, she learns about love, sacrifice, and the consequences of tampering with the occult. The book is described as a gothic tale with eerie atmosphere and supernatural elements, beautifully illustrated and written in a style that evokes both provocation and chills.
(Also, see 46 recommendations for the series Harrow House ) - #8
Save:'The Goddess Chronicle' by Natsuo Kirino is a captivating retelling of the Japanese creation myth of Izanami and Izanaki, exploring themes of fate, expectations, and the struggles of women. The story follows Namima, who is destined to become the priestess of death on a poor island, while her sister is trained to be the Oracle. As Namima rebels against her fate, the narrative delves into the complexities of mythology, societal roles, and women's empowerment. Kirino's writing style weaves a tale of joy and sorrow, light and darkness, love and vengeance, creating a compelling and thought-provoking story that resonates with readers.
My name is Namima – ‘Woman-Amid-the-Waves’. I am a miko. Born on an island far, far to the south, I was barely sixteen when I died. Now I make my home among the dead, here in this realm of darkness. H...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Canongate's The Myths ) - #9
Save:Skein Island is a captivating novel by Aliya Whiteley that starts with the narrow focus of a married couple dealing with personal trauma, then unfolds into an international, cross-historical mystery. The protagonist, Marianne Spence, receives an invitation to a mysterious women's retreat on Skein Island, stirring up painful memories and a need for answers. As she navigates her journey, the story intertwines ancient mythology with modern storytelling, reflecting on women's roles and the impact of patriarchal oppression. Whiteley's writing is elegant and precise, effortlessly blending realism with archetypal characters, creating a sense of urgency and depth.
- #10
Save:'The King Must Die' by Mary Renault is a retelling of the Theseus myth, focusing on his journey from Trozizen to Eleusis, his training as a bull-leader, and his role as king of the captives. The book weaves together myth, legend, history, and imagination to bring Theseus to life as a young hero destined to fulfill his fate with honor. Renault's writing style immerses the reader in the ancient world of Greece, presenting a plausible version of the reality behind the legend of Theseus.
The narrative follows Theseus as he faces challenges, saves the girl, and navigates the deadly bull ring and decadent courts of Crete. Renault's portrayal of Theseus as a real person, with a supernatural connection to Poseidon, adds depth to the character. The story unfolds with elements of adventure, passion, wit, and daring, painting a vivid picture of a young man coming into his heroic birthright amidst ancient rites and traditions.
THE CITADEL OF TROIZEN, where the Palace stands, was built by giants before anyone remembers. But the Palace was built by my great-grandfather. At sunrise, if you look at it from Kalauria across the s...
