It's time for the women of Ithaca to tell their tale. From the multi award-winning Claire North comes a daring, exquisite and moving tale that breathes life into ancient myth, and tells of the women who stand defiant in a world ruled by ruthless men. On Ithaca, everyone watches everyone else, and there is no corner of the palace where intrigue does not reign. Only through cunning and her spy network of maids can she maintain the delicate balance of power needed for the kingdom to survive. If Penelope chooses one from amongst them, it will plunge Ithaca into bloody civil war. Between Penelope's many suitors, a cold war of dubious alliances and hidden knives reigns, as everyone waits for the balance of power to tip one way or another. But no one man is strong enough to claim Odysseus' empty throne - not yet. But now, years on, speculation is mounting that husband is dead, and suitors are starting to knock at her door.

Whilst he lived, her position was secure. Luckily for me, newly published Ithaca by Claire North is the first in a new series that finally gives voice to the women who were originally sung as the meek supporters of the ruthless men who dominated the ancient myths.

Penelope was barely into womanhood when she wed Odysseus. None of them have returned, and the women have been left behind to run the kingdom. Seventeen years ago, king Odysseus sailed to war with Troy, taking with him every man of fighting age from the island of Ithaca. But on the isle, it is the choices of the abandoned women - and their goddesses - that will change the course of the world. Beyond Ithaca's shores, the whims of gods dictate the wars of men. This is the story of Penelope of Ithaca, famed wife of Odysseus, as it has never been told before.

Ithaca claire north review