A review by woahshereads
Circe by Madeline Miller

challenging dark sad tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

I really really really REALLY wanted to love this one as much as Song of Achilles but in the end the plot wasn't as enticing as I was expecting which I believe left me feeling bored (dare I say) in the middle parts of the book.

I think my main issue with the book is the fast paced sub-plots that we work our way through over the centuries that Circe is banished. If instead we were told only 2 or 3 sub stories in greater detail and depth, rather than many small and short instances, I would have connected with the story more. I guess the "wrath" from the gods didn't come through for me enough, although the human interaction in which Circe finds herself confronted with was. I was expecting to be completely moved by this one, as I was for Achilles, and in the end I wasn't - I didn't even cry which is telling of me. 

Madeline Miller, as always, does an incredible job at retelling classic stories in a way that feels relatable to the modern reader. Regardless, I will continue to suggest her books to readers as she has become a favorite of mine with just two books to offer. I genuinely hope to see more from her soon.