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moonlightcupofcocoa 's review for:
Clytemnestra
by Costanza Casati
adventurous
emotional
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
After having this book on my TBR for so long, and lots of raving reviews from friends, I can finally say that I get it. I wholeheartedly do.
I honestly can't believe that this is Costanza Casati's debut novel. I knew the story before starting the book so it's not like I didn't know the major events. And yet, I found myself staying up longer and longer each night because I *needed* to know what happens next and how things will unfold.
And don't get me started on the pain. Casati's writing is so poignant, vivid and emotional that, despite knowing they were coming, I ended up sobbing for Clytemnestra's heartaches. No, seriously. I even reached out to friends so I could wallow in their company.
While the writing and the scenery are so detailed, the pacing was perfectly balanced. Casati did such a great job giving space for the characters' and the readers' emotions to evolve and morph but not at the expense of keeping the plot going. There wasn't a single moment when I felt bored or eager to see a chapter end. If anything, more over than not, I was clutching to the book hoping it never does. But, also, I think a part of me is grateful that it ended where it did. I wasn't ready to say goodbye.
The characters, even the despised villains that shall not be named, were written with great depth. The titular character herself is flawed, complex and, honestly, relatable a lot of the time. Her monumental grief, the feeling of loss but forcing one's self to keep going, the deep love she holds for her family (including especially her sisters) and, of course, her anger. I felt it all and I honestly think it changed something in me.
If you're a fan of mythology and Ancient Greek history, this book is a must add to your library.
You can also find me on: Instagram
I honestly can't believe that this is Costanza Casati's debut novel. I knew the story before starting the book so it's not like I didn't know the major events. And yet, I found myself staying up longer and longer each night because I *needed* to know what happens next and how things will unfold.
And don't get me started on the pain. Casati's writing is so poignant, vivid and emotional that, despite knowing they were coming, I ended up sobbing for Clytemnestra's heartaches. No, seriously. I even reached out to friends so I could wallow in their company.
While the writing and the scenery are so detailed, the pacing was perfectly balanced. Casati did such a great job giving space for the characters' and the readers' emotions to evolve and morph but not at the expense of keeping the plot going. There wasn't a single moment when I felt bored or eager to see a chapter end. If anything, more over than not, I was clutching to the book hoping it never does. But, also, I think a part of me is grateful that it ended where it did. I wasn't ready to say goodbye.
The characters, even the despised villains that shall not be named, were written with great depth. The titular character herself is flawed, complex and, honestly, relatable a lot of the time. Her monumental grief, the feeling of loss but forcing one's self to keep going, the deep love she holds for her family (including especially her sisters) and, of course, her anger. I felt it all and I honestly think it changed something in me.
If you're a fan of mythology and Ancient Greek history, this book is a must add to your library.
You can also find me on: Instagram
Content Warnings
Graphic: Child death, Death, Misogyny, Sexism, Sexual assault, Sexual violence, Slavery, Violence, Murder
Moderate: Emotional abuse, Death of parent, Pregnancy, War
Minor: Suicidal thoughts, Torture