LoveReading Says
Clever and insightful storytelling ensures thoughts of an age old tale are challenged in this beautifully eloquent novel. Clytemnestra finds herself the prize of the man who tore apart her family in his bid to become King. One suggestion, if you don’t already know the Greek myth surrounding Clytemnestra perhaps wait until you’ve finished reading before exploring further. I’ve previously spent time in other reimagined stories of these myths and love how my opinions can spin depending on the viewpoint. That is particularly the case here, as the spotlight shines on a much maligned woman. The story is told in the first person, allowing such intimate access, you join her and see her thoughts as she makes her decisions. The epic nature of the tale and the individual cogs that fit together within it are absolutely fascinating. This world is brought to vividly intense life, with the focus on motherhood, and the strength of women. I was delighted to learn that this is the first in a trilogy by Susan C. Wilson, with the next two novels focusing on Clytemnestra’s twin sister Helen, and then her daughter Electra. Painting a vibrant scene and allowing access to a different viewpoint, Clytemnestra’s Bind is an exciting and powerful novel.
Liz Robinson
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Clytemnestra's Bind Synopsis
Perfect for fans of MADELINE MILLER'S CIRCE and THE SONG OF ACHILLES, this is the first instalment in an epic three-part series.
The House of Atreus is spiralling into self-destruction - a woman must find a way to break the family curse.
Queen Clytemnestra's world shatters when Agamemnon, a rival to the throne of Mycenae, storms her palace, destroys her family and claims not only the throne but Clytemnestra herself. Tormented by her loss, she vows to do all she can to protect the children born from her unhappy marriage to Agamemnon. But when her husband casts his ruthless gaze towards the wealthy citadel of Troy, his ambitions threaten to once more destroy the family Clytemnestra loves.
From one of Greek mythology's most reviled characters - a woman who challenged the absolute power of men - comes this fiery tale of power, family rivalry and a mother's burning love.
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Susan C Wilson Press Reviews
"Take a bow, Susan C Wilson. Brilliant, razor-sharp debut. One of the most evocative retellings I've had the privilege to read." —Mark Knowles, author of Jason
"A bold and brave retelling that gives voice to Clytemnestra as she challenges the men that hold power. A compelling and evocative book that had me gripped from the first word." —Elizabeth Lee, author of Cunning Women
"Clytemnestra's Bind is bold, brilliant and brutal. Rich with psychological insight, hypnotic characters and thrilling dialogue...I was completely captivated by Wilson's propulsive, visceral storytelling and the unique horror of her haunting heroine's predicament. I cannot wait for the next instalment!" —Nikki Marmery, author of Lilith
"...imaginatively [written] through the voice of Clytemnestra...this is a very modern novel and quite different in many ways to the accounts of myths and legends by ancient Greek writers...it tells similar stories, but adds a vast amount of description of every aspect of what domestic and other life might have been like at that time." —Classics For All, Marion Gibb
"This relentlessly savage novel is powerfully written. Brutality is unflinchingly and convincingly described...it makes us want more" —Historical Novel Society
"stands independently and memorably amongst the influx of Greek Mythology retellings...providing a fresh voice to the injustices the women of this time experiences." —Reader Review
"...tragic, fierce and compelling. The characters were very well drawn, the pace was great, and I could not put the book down. This book has a worthy place in the pantheon of excellent Greek stories." —Reader Review
"Visceral at times, yet beautiful, the author's descriptive prose brings alive the pain of Clytemnestra's trauma, which is often overlooked." —Reader Review
"I loved everything about this book so much!" —Reader Review
"A lyrical and captivating retelling of the story of the cursed House of Atreus. The writing is spectacular; vivid and poetic." —Reader Review
"It had me hooked from the beginning." —Reader Review
About Susan C Wilson
Susan C Wilson has a degree in journalism from Edinburgh Napier University and a diploma in classical studies from the Open University. She has worked in such environments as the Scottish Courts and the Scottish Parliament. As a writer she loves to explore what makes us human: the eternal motivations, desires and instincts that cross time and place. She also aims to make ancient stories resonate with a modern audience, through historical fiction and contemporary retellings. Her debut novel, Clytemnestra’s Bind, was longlisted pre-publication for the Mslexia Novel Competition in 2019.
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