The Stats
Title: Circe
Author: Madeline Miller
Narrated By: Perdita Weeks
Publisher: Little, Brown and Company (10 April, 2018)
Time: 12 Hours 09 Minutes
Genre: General Fiction (Adult), Mythology, Retellings, Historical Fiction
Trigger Warnings: Death, Abuse, War
Read if you like: The Odyssey, Greek Mythology, Lore Olympics, The Silence of the Girls, Wolf Den
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Stars
Goodreads Choice Award Winner for Best Fantasy (2018)
Book of the Month Book of the Year 2018
The Review
Madeline Miller’s “Circe” is an absolute triumph of storytelling, a literary marvel that transports readers into a world of ancient gods and heroes, weaving an enchanting tapestry of myth and magic. I can’t praise this book enough; it deserves every one of its five stars and more.
Madeline Miller’s gift for storytelling is evident in every page of “Circe.” Her ability to blend historical accuracy with contemporary relevance is a testament to her craftsmanship. Miller’s breathtaking prose is nothing short of spellbinding. Her words are imbued with a lyrical quality that brings the ancient Greek myths to life with a modern and relatable touch. From the very first page, you are drawn into the world of Circe, the enchantress daughter of Helios, and her journey of self-discovery, love, and transformation.
Circe is not just a character; she is a vivid, multifaceted personality with whom you form an immediate and deep connection. Her evolution from an underestimated and scorned nymph to a powerful and independent witch is a testament to Miller’s skill in character development. Circe’s experiences, her struggles and triumphs, resonate with universal themes of identity, resilience, and the enduring quest for belonging.
The narrative is a mesmerizing tapestry of Greek mythology, seamlessly interweaving the stories of famous figures like Prometheus, Daedalus, and Odysseus into Circe’s own story. Miller’s deep knowledge of these myths shines through, making the book a rich experience for both myth aficionados and newcomers alike.
What truly sets “Circe” apart is its exploration of feminism and the female perspective in a world dominated by male deities and heroes. Circe’s defiance, her growth, and her relationships with other women in the story, especially Penelope, Queen of Ithaca, and Scylla offer a refreshing and empowering perspective on the mythological tales we thought we knew.
In conclusion, “Circe” is a tour de force, a work of fiction that captivates, enchants, and leaves a lasting impact. Madeline Miller’s ability to breathe new life into ancient stories is nothing short of magical. Whether you’re a fan of mythology, fantasy, or simply appreciate beautifully written novels, “Circe” is a must-read. This book is a true gem, a literary masterpiece that transcends genres and deserves a place on every bookshelf.
Short Review (AKA TLDR)
Madeline Miller’s “Circe” is a captivating masterpiece that effortlessly immerses readers in the world of ancient Greek gods and heroes through enchanting storytelling. Miller’s exquisite prose, rich in historical accuracy and contemporary relevance, weaves a spellbinding narrative that revolves around Circe, a multifaceted character whose transformation from a scorned nymph to a powerful, independent witch resonates with universal themes of identity and resilience. The book seamlessly interlaces well-known myths into Circe’s story, showcasing Miller’s deep knowledge of the subject. What truly sets “Circe” apart is its feminist exploration and empowering female perspective within a male-dominated mythological world. This is a must-read, a true gem, and a literary masterpiece that transcends genres and deserves a place on every bookshelf.
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