Mythology of any kind is a rife place for narrative because it contains a whole treasure of archetypal stories that instantly connect. Here is a list of the best fantasy books that were inspired from one of the richest and oldest mythologies. So if you are a fantasy book lover and touch of Greek Mythology increases your interest. In that case these 10 best fantasy books based on Greek Mythology are meant for you.
10 Best Fantasy Books Based on Greek Mythology:
Medusa by Jessie Burton
From one of the most popular writers today is this Greek story from the perspective of a villain – Medusa. With a glance that kills and a head with snakes instead of hair, Medusa’s life is a curse. But the only redemption might be a handsome young traveller, Perseus.
Daughter of Sparta by Claire Andrews
Set in the magical land of Sparta, our story takes us on a voyage through the life of the aspiring warrior Daphne. But when the goddess Artemis holds the reigns of her brother’s life in her hands, her whole life is unravelled. Now she must set forth on a quest to recover nine precious items scattered through the land. And for this, she must enlist the help of Artemis’ handsome twin Apollo.
A Thousand Ships by Natalie Haynes
This is a retelling of the Iliad, but it explores the cost of the Trojan War on its women. In fact, it is told from the perspective of its women and the men take a backseat. It’s narrated by the Goddess of Epics, Calliope, and is a collection of stories within stories within stories. From the Amazonian princess who fought the legendary Achilles to Penelope who lay resilient in wait for Odysseus, this is a portrait of feminineness during a war.
Ariadne by Jennifer Saint
This poignant little story introduces readers to Ariadne, the beautiful princess who lives in her own bubble of happiness. But beneath her lives the monster Minotaur, who demands a blood sacrifice. So when the ‘enemy’ prince of Athens comes to kill him, Ariadne defies her family and country for her love for him. But will that guarantee her a happy ending?
Circe by Madeline Miller
One of the most popular novels in recent times, this book has at its centre the daughter of Sun-God and Titan Helios, Circe. Circe discovers she has the power to manipulate magic and practise witchcraft. This results in her banishment to a solitary island, where she hones her occult craft and also meets heroic mortals from Icarus, Daedalus and Odysseus. Soon, however, she must choose between the Gods to whom she was born and the mortals, whom she has come to love.
Piranesi by Susanne Clarke
This wildly original book follows Piranesi, a lone man living in a house that contains the ocean. Piranesi has never stepped of of the house, or met anyone except the Other who lives in the house and meets him twice a week. But soon evidence emerges that there exists someone else in the house, ad Piranesi’s life comes unravelled.
Autobiography of Red by Anne Carson
This novel in verse recounts the ancient Greek myth of Geryon and flips in on its head to turn it into a coming-of-age story. Geryon, a monster with red wings, begins his autobiography at the age of five and goes on through his life and love. It’s a lyrical treat.
House of Names by Colm Toibin
From one of the most gifted writers of the modern day comes a tragic retelling of the story of Agamemnon in the aftermath of the Trojan War. Without any additive elements but with haunting prose, this family tragedy will stick in your mind.
The Penelopiad by Margaret Atwood
Margaret Atwood is a master of modern fiction, and this book transcends genres and stays with the reader. It basically recounts the story of the Iliad from the perspective of Penelope, wife of Odysseus. The book is playful yet profound in an exploration of mythological femininity.
The Silence of the Girls by Pat Barker
This account of the Trojan war and the cityscapes of Troy takes us through the perspectives of women. We encounter the woman over whom men fight battles – Helen. And we also meet the woman who wisely waits for the end of the war – Briseis.
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