Excellent contrast to the mythology
342505
It's an unvarnished look at a legend and his supreme rival.  Both Ali and Frazier are cast in a different light.  The carnage left behind for both men is astounding.  We hail the trilogy in sporting terms, but should be mindful of the horror it wrought in human terms.  Kram's analysis is insightful and encompassing.
1787059
I have always been a sucker for Greek mythology so I was thrilled when I got my hands on Kendare Blakes Antigoddess.

Before I go into what this book is, lets take a moment to mention what this book is not. It is NOT something that would fit comfortably with the Percy Jackson series. Percy and his Half-Blood friends are great but its basically Harry Potter with gods instead of magic. Antigoddess is dark. Sure, it has its moments of levity and humor, but serious business takes place within these pages, and some scenes could be a little graphic  so its probably not something for younger readers.

For the first time ever, the immortal gods of Olympus face death. Over the centuries, theyve declined in power and Mount Olympus itself has fallen, but the gods still endured until now.

Athena, goddess of war and wisdom, along with Hermes, messenger of the gods, are on a quest to find out whats happening to them, and hopefully discover a cure along the way. While its never precisely spelled out, its apparent that what the gods are known for become the symptoms of their disease.

Athena has always been associated with owls, and now owl feathers are growing within her body. While she rips them out when she can get her fingers on them, most are not easy to to reach, and she fears the moment where she might lie helpless upon the ground, suffocating from lungs filled with feathers.

Meanwhile, Hermes, known for being able to run super fast, has a metabolism that has shot into overdrive, slowly burning his body up from the inside out.

The two immortals discover that their only hope lies with a teenage girl named Cassandra, who happens to be the reincarnation of Cassandra of Troy. While the girl has the power to see the future, Athena is told that Cassandra can be much more than a seer, so the two gods set off to find her before the enemy does.

Throughout the novel, the point-of-view shifts between a couple of main characters, giving the reader a great look at whats going on from multiple perspectives, and Kendare does an excellent job of bringing all the characters to life, making it possible to even sympathize with a goddess thats been around for thousands of centuries.

The plot has plenty of twists and turns, making for an exciting read. While my love for mythology mightve given me an advantage in knowing who the main villain was, I was still surprised at how evil this person was portrayed, although evil might not be the correct word. The gods that stand against Athena, Hermes, and Cassandra aren't bad-guy caricatures that want to take over the world. They simply want to live, and an immortal suddenly facing mortality will take extreme measures to save themselves.

Whether you like mythology or not, lovers of fantasy adventure will enjoy Antigoddess.
837941
Shadows of the Sun Dynasty is my first foray into Indian mythology, actually into any Indian topic at all. I was completely unaware of the story of Ramayana. I am still undecided if that was a hindrance to me or an added bonus. I was able to read the story with an untainted perspective, but I think that background might have been helpful. I did love the fact that the females were so well developed and truly drove the tale. I received a plethora of background information which made me better acquainted with the characters. It was refreshing to have the woman's perspective and to have a definable heroine to champion. An epic battle of good vs. evil is made even better with the power and strength of the female perspective.

The other part of this book that must be mentioned are the illustrations. It is rare to find a non-children's book with illustrations as such, but they are extraordinary. Detailed and mystical, I feel that they greatly enhanced the reading experience and helped me understand a culture that I am unfamiliar with. Well done!
3050144
I was a bit hesistant at first to read this, as I have a firm love of greek mythology, but found myself pleasantly surprised. It pulls you in, and has you feeling for the charachters, especially Henry, throughout the novel. I can't wait to read the rest of the series!
1553397
I purchased both the paperback and the kindle version which says how much I thoroughly enjoyed reading The Goddess Test. I adore Greek Mythology and this book is an excellent addition to my collection. While not exactly like their myths, the personalities of the gods and goddesses are still there if not their age old stories. Having the advantage of reading the series once in its entirety, I can say that the author maintains the ability to weave a very captivating story. Kate, the main character of the series, shares her life beginning with her mother's battle with cancer. The last four years of Kate's life have been hard watching her mother struggle to survive against the trappings of cancer. With such great adversity comes a selfless, patient and loving personality in Kate. There isn't anything she wouldn't do for someone else's happiness. When Hades presents the life of her friend and her mother on a platter in exchange for Kate's hand in marriage, Kate jumps at the chance to save those she loves. However, in doing so she is saving far more than she realizes. Unfortunately, to be a true goddess, you have to pass the Goddess Test. If Kate fails, she will lose far more than she ever bargained for.
4059814
I have always enjoyed Greek Mythology, but certainly have never studied it at the level that is possible in this book. A concise collection of descriptions of the primary deities of creation left my head spinning - the number of children born to Gaea embodying many of the elements of the heavens and earth as we know them.

I read of the duplicity and cruelty vetted by these deities and think what we experience today is mild in comparison. I also find the numbers of offspring being 7,9 or 12 very fascinating; how much of my Christian creation history does the same. Getting to the Olympian Gods, I began to remember more of my scholastic studies. As as artist, I used many of them to reference the qualities and names provided my pieces. I also found of interest the fact that there were myriad versions of the history and stories.

I think the author perfectly articulates my thoughts on Greek mythology Clouded with superstition, confusion and mysticism, Egyptian gods and goddesses have been reduced to cartoon icons we really don't know much about.  Which makes it refreshing to know the author has a series of additional books to read should I want to know more about this fascinating topic.

Other than being discomforted by the odd twist of writing style,which does not mesh well with the topic or the balance of writing I enjoyed in the book, the author used in his discussion of Horus, I found the book a most worthy read.
1274464
The Library of Fates has an interesting mythology set in the ancient fictional kingdom of Shalingar - a kingdom that is nearly utopic but is being threatened by a foreign emperor. Amrita, the princess, is ready to sacrifice her future life for her kingdom, but the nature of her sacrifice takes her on an unusual journey where she discovers herself. The fantasy world, while taking inspiration from ancient kingdoms, has a wholly unique mythology of its own.

First, let me start with the world-building. Shalingar is a pretty peaceful and chill kingdom - the king is benevolent, the subjects are happy, sexism is non-existent, and it is largely influenced by kingdoms and provinces in India. The author includes lush details of the culture, and customs of Shalingar, while staying away from the stereotypes; for instance, spirituality is largely the people's prerogative, but different religions and faiths co-exist. The central mythology of this book concerns a land where people were in tune with nature, and a vast library where every person's life is written (which honestly feels similar to the Library in The Magicians). The influences of Hindu mythology are in the form of vetalas - but they are loosely interpreted, as vetalas are sort of like ghosts, but here they are immortal spirits, as in the former is in a negative sense, while the latter (or at least as in this book) they are keepers or guardian-like.

Amrita is an interesting protagonist. She has been closeted from childhood, but being brought up by a kindly king, she learns to always put her people first. Even when the time comes to finally leave her kingdom, she does it with great sorrow in her heart. However, she is also a strong person and will do what is necessary for the greater good. Her journey is more of her realization that sometimes the life you imagined is not the life that is waiting out there for you, and sometimes that is okay, too. At first, she is skeptical of the mythology coming to life, as she has considered them as merely stories. Her friendship with the seer Thala (who is also a slave) changes her, and sets her out on her journey - and their growth was beautiful to watch. There are two romances, but neither is the focus of the story, but the reincarnation was a nice addition.

As for the emperor, he seems underdeveloped and feels like he is derived from Alexander the Great. He is, however, a key part of Amrita's journey and her choices later on in the book, but I won't discuss further on that to keep this review non-spoilery. I will, say, however, that the last quarter of the book felt rushed on that account, and could have been stretched out a little - especially because it was a crucial part of her story's development. As this, so far, looks like a standalone, it feels like it was wrapped up fast to end the story.

Overall, though, this book is a lushly written fantasy, and I am delighted to read a story about my culture in such a wonderful setting.
755477
Old myths entertainingly told in a contemporary voice.  The personalities of the gods shine here. This is a good read for both mythology fans and people who could take or leave them.
1448757
This was another amazing book I came across.  I'm really impressed on the author's information on myth, occult, and lore placement in the story to the point I question if there is some truth to it all.  The synchronicity and placement of all the myth stories from Egypt, Sumerian,Celtic, Greek, and etc, and  the scripture story of Enoch - Genesis chapter 7 after the Noah,  family, and animals exiting the ark after the Flood.  Is fluid to the point of been a missing book of the scriptures of who the Nephilim were and what the days were like when they ruled the earth. I enjoy the side plot points of explaining detail and connection of the nephilim, angels, and demons been the construct of myths we hear today.

I enjoyed both the prequel(This book) and Historia Regum Obscurum: Book 1.  Filling up origins of the supernatural entities of book one with the reign of the Dark Kings.

I have to admit out of all the side stories I enjoyed the plot points of Methuselah, Lamech, and Noah. Even had a spot of learning more indepth about the genealogy of Cain. I liked the story of Egypt especially when Set vs Horus & Isis(Aset) plot begin and ended.  I honestly prefer this story over the myth.  Especially when you find out the connection between those three.

In the beginning of the story I actually like hearing and different account on the group of angelic domain called the Satans/Satanim,  It's sad to hear how majority of them became apathetic and resentful towards humanity because of constantly of seeing them at their low and the peer reputation from both humans and another angelic dominion of been look upon as "evil-doers".  When really their job was under the command of the Most High/God to test humanity and show their weakness so they can improve and learn to not take things for granted.

Highly recommend this book if you love the Historia Regum Obscurum: Book 1.  Hell, If you love the bible/scriptures especially the Book of Enoch. Pick this book up for an adventure in the Days of Jared/Noah.
1643809
I have read several scholarly translations of Norse myths and tales and bought this book to find out how a modern writer might interpret them.  I was not disappointed.  Crossley-Holland's retellings are crisp and interesting and still retain the traditional feel of the originals.  Strongly recommended as a great introduction to a long-neglected mythology.
388842
"The Horse Goddess" starts with young Epona coming to age in her tribe in ancient Ireland. Epona is, in Celtic mythology, the horse goddess.  Morgan Llywelyn takes the story of Epona and expands it and tells the story of how a regular young woman could come to be revered as a goddess.  The story isn't written in the traditional sweeping fantasy manner. Rather, "The Horse Goddess" reads like listening to a story.  I can just imagine sitting around a fire listening to the village wise woman telling this story and the children sitting at her feet, listening with wide eyes.  Epona has begun to exhibit magical abilities and the village's Druid priest, Kernunnos, desires to teach her.  But something in Epona makes her rebel against Kernunnos and his unnatural ability for shape-changing. Kernunnos is obsessed with Epona and her powers, and when she flees her tribe rather than submit to becoming a Druid, he follows her all the way to the Scythians, which is where she finally ends.  She exhibits an unusual ability of being able to communicate with animals, notable horses.  The Scythians are a very horse-centered tribe, and Epona creates a place for herself in a society where women are little more than property.
Llywelyn's story of Epona is a must read for people that are interested in Celtic mythology and ancient Ireland.  Llywelyn is an amazing talent, and being interested in the ancient Celts and Ireland, I plan on reading many more of her books.  She brings ancient Ireland to life, and adds depth and detail to Celtic myths.
2494813
I'm not usually a big reader of romance, but the mythology behind this story makes it powerful. Author Patricia Puddle does a wonderful job of making the book readable and absorbing, but also incorporating the spiritual. It is not heavy handed religious, but rather draws on angel mythology. It's a quick, exciting read.
3407580
Good storytelling with different than typical mythical creatures. (Centaurs, Minotaurs and made-up alien beasts)
There is a realness, and simplicity to this faeries tale that reminds me of Neil Gain an. Beautiful, terrible and real. Plus...it's got some sex!
2550677
Circe is the daughter of Helios, god of the sun and the mightiest Titan. Her mother is both cruel and alluring. Circe is not like either of them. Nor is she like her three siblings, striving for power and fame.

Circe prefers the company of fragile mortals to that of the powerfuland cruelgods. In her search for companionship, Circe discovers she does have power:  that of witchcraft. Her power to transform her rivals into monsters makes the gods fear her, and she is banished by Zeus himself to a deserted island.

There, Circe learns her craft, growing in power and knowledge as she comes to know some of the most famous individuals in mythology:  The Minotaur, Medea, Daedalus, and especially the mighty Odysseus. But Circe draws the anger of one of the most powerful god in existence, and it will take all of skills and cunning to surviveand to decide if she will be a god, or a mortal.

Ive always loved mythology, and I knew a tiny bit about Circe from a year spent studying mythology in high school (Thank you, Mrs. Skidmore!), but this novel is a riveting and personal journey into Circes life. Her treatment at the hands of the gods made me sadkind of like the behavior of a lot of society these daysand her fumbling attempts to find friends and figure out her own truths drew my sympathy.

I loved reading about mythology from an insiders viewI truly felt I was part of the tale, experiencing Circes pain, grief, horror, and happiness right along with her. Well-written and engrossing, this book is a journey readers will love to take!

(Galley provided by Little, Brown and Company in exchange for an honest review.)
655303
I'm really glad to have received this book. I have read some of the myths from other books, and they were fun to read but just too innocent and without explanation. I haven't read much stuff about norse mythology yet but I have to say that I just love how Loki is characterized in this book. I think for anyone who has an interest in Norse mythology or is just getting started with their knowledge would really enjoy this one. It's a novel that tears into the very flesh of mythology, shows a picture with its essence while adding the sharpened edge of the modern world. The novel tells the story of Loki, brother to Thor and son of the great god Odin in Asgard, the home of the gods. But I will not share more with you - you have to read it in order to enjoy in full. So after all it's a must read for anyone who enjoys myths and legends.
216343
It is amazing how Gemmell manages to infuse much realism into the characters that it is easy to be drawn into their personal struggles and dilemmas. Perhaps Homeric scholars may blanched at the inaccuracies but this is supposed to be fiction after all, and the story is so riveting that they might just forgive him for that.

The title refers to Andromache, who has been prophesised to bring forth the Eagle child who will not be defeated. So of course, King Priam wished to have that guarantee for Troy and hoped the child would be sired by Hektor. But of course, this being Gemmell at his creative best, there are unexpected turns to that part of the plot which will keep readers committed to the very end.

Readers are also introduced to Achilles, and his 'exhibition duel' with Hektor makes for one of the interesting moments in the novel. But what keeps me reading Gemmell's Troy is how he develops his characters. He reveals the personalities of his main characters not through their own actions, but what others speak of them, which to me, makes a greater vouch for realism than any other method. For example, when Andromache dismisses her personal guard's comment of how great a man Hektor is, because she thinks she has already heard it before - great warrior and all that, and then it is revealed that it was not that that he meant, but that Hektor cares for the welfare of even the lowest ranking foot soldier, we get an insight into Hektor's character which lifts that veil of indifference (as well as Andromache's own) that we have of Hektor as he has only been mentioned, not actually materialising as a character as much as Aeneas or Odysseus in the first book.

It is a page-turning read and this trilogy is a good stepping stone to exploring Homer's Iliad or Virgil's Aeneid.
3527342
I enjoyed Greek Mythology in high school, and so I enjoyed being returned to that world in L.E. Henderson's "Thief of Hades". However, I was not returned to ancient Greece itself. This story takes place in the land of the dead, but thousands of years after the era of Alexander, Plato, and Aristotle. Our central character is Charon, the boatman, and we learn about why he ceaselessly ferries the dead and to what end he collects their silver coins. We find ourselves in the midst of a multi-epoch family drama of sorts, involving thievery, existential horror, intangible dreams, and a resentful, love-struck god. There are several interesting ideas played with, including the idea of suffering in paradise, which I found poignant.

I look forward to more thoughtful adventure/fantasy from L.E. Henderson, as I think she is a uniquely creative and linguistically efficient writer. This was quality writing from a self-published author, and could have easily been traditionally published.