What a story! Epic in scale as it focuses on the Trojan war, this is also as intimate as can be as it spears Helen’s life and lays it bare. The Greek Myths are always interesting when told from a different viewpoint. Author Susan C. Wilson has the ability to breathe new life and fire into the tales that form part of the House of Atreus series. While you can definitely read this as a standalone, I would recommend starting with the first in series Clytemnestra’s Bind before turning to Helen’s Judgement. With the spotlight this time on Clytemnestra’s sister Helen, Achilles looks back from the afterlife with an honest and thoughtful account. This is a fascinating take and viewpoint, it feels authentic, and as though you are living in the reality of the time before the twists and ploys of the history books take place. While Helen’s story takes centre stage, the other well known characters are given equal billing which creates a colourfully vivid world. While the sense of place is grounding, it really is about the thoughts and feelings of the characters as they each contribute to making the myth. Greed, selfishness, and entitlement, all play their part as the tale unfolds. Highly recommended, Helen’s Judgement is incredibly rewarding, and a definite for those who love their Greek mythology.
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.
