Overall, “Clytemnestra” is unique due to its fresh, well-researched story with an intriguing heroine. The concept of revisiting a Greek myth with a feminist twist is not necessarily unique, but “Clytemnestra” still manages to break new ground by investigating the motives of a woman who has historically been marked as a villain. The novel is perfect for those interested in learning more about a misunderstood figure in Greek mythology, and Casati will be an author to watch in the years to come. This book will transport you to another world where you will suffer right along with the main character, Actually, it would be more accurate to say that you don't just feel like you're walking along side her, but that you actually ARE her. You will feel every single emotion the main character feels. Whether its feelings passionate, all-encompassing love or experiencing that familiar deep, visceral feeling of wanting to enact revenge for being wronged, you will go on an emotional rollercoaster. This book felt PERSONAL and I'm still sitting here taking it all in. Acceptance or vengeance, infamy follows both. So, you bide your time and force the gods' hands in the game of retribution. For you understood something long ago that the others never did. Honestly, if anyone gives me feminist Greek mythology I just about combust from excitement and Clytemnestra was absolutely no different, I'm COMPLETELY obsessed and fully intend to make it my entire personality for the next three to six months. This is the story of a daughter betrayed by her father. Who watches her sister be destroyed by violence and rape. Whose child is sacrificed to ensure her family's power. Who fights as fiercely as any warrior. Who falls in love with her husband's enemy. Who is hungry for otherworldly retribution against both men and gods...

Clytemnestra is fascinating to learn and read about. She is complicated, at times scheming, but intensely revengeful. Yet, she is also a mother who loves her children deeply and a protective sister. As Queen and in her husband's absence, she ruled ruthlessly but fairly, at least by "Ancient Greek" standards. Living in a time when females were almost powerless, she fought for respect and used hers wisely; she was courageous but also unforgiving when wronged. I truly cannot recommend this book enough. Though I had a wonderful time coming at this from the perspective of someone with an education in these stories, themes, and characters already, I think this is a very easy introduction for those who only know Helen as "the face that launched a thousand ships" or don't know Clytemnestra's name or the generic Greek mythology lover. Even as someone who already knew the basic plots, I learned so much by reading this book! I knew nothing about Clytemnestra's upbringing in Sparta and the drama around her siblings and their own mythologies. This novel also does a great job of connecting all of these intertwining but often told separately myths — Odysseus, Jason and the Argonauts, Helen of Troy, the House of Atreus, etc. Ablaze with transporting moments of deep tenderness and visceral ferocity, Casati's Clytemnestra gives the phrase 'fight like a girl' its rightfully heroic and empowering meaning! Beautifully told in a style that pays nimble homage to classic Greek mythology, Clytemnestrais a rich and compelling read, and even more so for every woman who has ever had to fight in any arena of life to reclaim her power. I thoroughly enjoyed Casati's Clytemnestra, and highly recommend it as a brilliant and exceptional new addition to the pantheon of Greek myth retelling must-reads!”— Buki Papillon, author of An Ordinary Wonder Clytemnestra is a book full of names I honestly cannot pronounce right, but had a blast reading anyway. I think the only name I got right was Hermione. But all of that aside, it is a very intriguing story about a Spartan woman and the experience and changes that vengeance brings.

What’s Left After Vengeance?

As the title suggests, this is Greek tragedy told from the perspective of the Spartan women. Most novels which cover this subject, begin with a narrow focus and expand to the exploits of the famous warriors. However, this author chooses to begin with an expansive examination of the family history, the cultural and religious practices of the time, topographical references, and even the elements of typical of modes of dress and of feasts. The depth of the relationships, and the flaws of each character further contribute to the rich tapestry, which eventually flows to a tension point of final confrontation and retribution. It's a unique approach, and an effective framework for tension building, even when we know how it ends. Instead, Clytemnestra spends much of its time on its titular character’s origins, and in doing so, it manages to make the essential plot beats of a story we all know the ending to feel fresh and new. The grim conclusion of her life is given a sweeping, tragic, and painfully personal feel by making it part of a larger pattern of suffering and survival, and Clytemnestra’s desire for revenge and control of her fate is presented as something that’s been building throughout her story. A blazing novel set in the world of Ancient Greece and told through the eyes of its greatest female protagonist, this is a thrilling tale of power and prophecies, of hatred, love, and of an unforgettable Queen who fiercely dealt out death to those who wronged her. Critical Praise Worst of all, in both situations, Agamemnon’s actions are not only condoned, but even enabled by men close to Clytemnestra such as her father and her friend Odysseus. Signed Waterstones Exclusive Edition with sprayed edge and end papers - A Standard Edition is available here

This book had me from the start and never let go. If you love Greek mythology, its fantastical stories, and the stark reality of its dark nature, should definitely read this one. Clytemnestrais a literary tour de force—a novel of passion and vengeance set in Ancient Greece.”— Foreword Clytemnestra’s character is imagined with nuanced complexity. She rages with hatred, wanting vengeance for those she has lost, but is also capable of intense love. Clytemnestra is one well-written, solid protagonist.You were born to a king, but you marry a tyrant. You stand by helplessly as he sacrifices your child to placate the gods. You watch him wage war on a foreign shore, and you comfort yourself with violent thoughts of your own. Because this was not the first offence against you. This was not the life you ever deserved. And this will not be your undoing. Slowly, you plot. Told through the eyes of Clytemnestra, ancient Greek’s huntress, warrior, mother, murderess, and queen. A massive thank-you to Netgalley, the publisher, and the author of Clytemnestra for allowing me the opportunity to read and review this outstanding book! I appreciate it so much! This book is absolutely bewitching. It is fiery and dark and painful and retributive in all the best ways, exactly what I’d hope for in a retelling of Clytemnestra’s story. Clytemnestra not only does justice to its source material but also transforms it, adding complex perspective and depth to its characters, themes, and events. Its spiral into tragedy is compelling. Fans of Madeline Miller will love Clytemnestra, and I'm excited to have another great mythology writer to choose from. Let me repeat that: there is no gods in a Greek myth reinterpretation and it still works as a story. And the writing totally makes sense as to why the characters believe the gods meddle in their lives while actively showing other characters operations and how most of the events were not godly. And the story still works! I have yet to see that in a reinterpretation of books like these.

Leda's daughters will twice and thrice wed. And they will all be deserters of lawful husbands," a prophecy reads. This sets into motion the rest of Clytemnestra's powerful but tragic life. I really love having a woman’s point of view because most mythology retellings are from a man’s stand point and you don’t get to see the woman’s side or perspective. I hadn’t known much about Clytemnestra because she hasn’t been a main character in any of the stories I’ve read or research I’ve done. She’s very interesting that’s for sure. I’m not sure I’d compare her to Cersi though. I hated Cersi; I didn’t hate Clytemnestra. Casati’s careful consideration of different perspectives allows the reader to sympathize deeply with Clytemnestra. In Greek mythology, Clytemnestra is often remembered for being insane — a wretched woman who, blinded by a need for vengeance, murders her husband. But in Casati’s novel, she is a fiery figure, still fueled by a burning desire for revenge, but never painted as delusional. “Clytemnestra” shows how she is shaped by trauma yet still bravely holds onto power in a time when women were seen as subhuman. Casati’s clear feminist stance makes this retelling fresh despite being based on stories that are thousands of years old. What a pleasure to fall in love with Clytemnestra through the mind of Costanza Casati, who renders a singularly vibrant Greece, populated by familiar characters and absolutely alive with emotion and suspense. Casati reveals a Clytemnestra we’ve never met before: fiercely intelligent, passionate, and loving – and willing to do anything to avenge the ones she loves."— Naomi Krupitsky, New York Timesbestselling author of The FamilyIn Clytemnestra, she is the main character. The entire book is written from her, a woman in ancient Greece’s, perspective. She’s not a perfect person. She’s not a perfect mother or a perfect role model. She’s not a perfect woman or a perfect feminist. But she has a traumatizing tale that will gain sympathy from all those who have any to give, as Clytemnestra’s heartbreaking, tragic tale unfolds. Ancient Greece is shown to be a harsh world, where Clytemnestra suffers unimaginable losses and indignities, but eventually rises to the top, to be a ruler like no other woman. While reading this novel, I had to remind myself that this is mythology, not history. This chronicle feels real. Acceptance or vengeance - infamy follows both. So you bide your time and wait, until you might force the gods' hands and take revenge. Until you rise. For you understood something that the others don't. If power isn't given to you, you have to take it for yourself. The novel’s strength lies in its ability to weave many complex stories into one linear narrative by centering all of these episodes on Clytemnestra herself. Clytemnestra is often portrayed as a side character or villain in Greek mythology, but in this novel she takes the center stage. Classic Greek heroes such as Theseus, Odysseus, Jason, and Achilles thereby become supporting characters in Clytemnestra’s compelling storyline rather than dominating the narrative. While literature and art has typically depicted male Greek heroes as courageous or exemplary, “Clytemnestra” instead highlights their horrible deeds and sexist beliefs. As Clytemnestra quips about Theseus, “Heroes like him are made of greed and cruelty: they take and take until the world around them is stripped of its beauty.” The novel shows how the heroes of some stories are the villains of others — and vice versa. Ms. Casati has a true talent and has made an ancient historical and mythological figure current, relevant, real, and human.