BOOK REVIEW "Medea" by Kerry Greenwood
Most people know the author Kerry Greenwood from her excellent series "the Phryne Fisher Mysteries", crime fiction set in 1920's Melbourne. However of more interest to me is her three book historical fiction series "Delphic Women"
Book 1 in the series is "Medea". Much maligned as all powerful and purposeful women in history seem to be cast. Without spoilers this charts the life and adventures of Medea, a priestess of the Temple of Hecate, in Colchis.
We see her go from the strict life of the temple, to her adventures with the Scyths, and eventually as a member of the crew of "The Argo", under the command of Jason.
This book turns the popular ideas of Jason & the Argonauts on its head.
The political implications, mean a power struggle between different factions, with Medea unwillingly caught up in the various intrigues and factional fighting.
The book is based partly on true historical facts, part Greek myth & legend, and Kerry Greenwood presents a daring passionate feminist retelling of Medea's life, which will be sure to enthrall fans of historical fiction, as well as history buffs equally.
Her eye to detail of life in Ancient Greece is fascinating, down to modes of dress, hairstyles, cooking and diet, weapons, armour, tunics. temple rites, social life & customs, and mysterious rituals and beliefs.
No stone is left unturned for this illuminating biography of one of the Ancient World's legendary heroines.
Thanks to a friendly Wizard and his generosity, members of the FMI Library can enjoy all three books in this fine, mostly neglected series by one of Australia's finest writers, and most definitely proudly also Footscray's best. Review by Cameron
Rating: 5/5 (I won't give any spoilers, but if you enjoyed "Game of Thrones" this will definitely be your cuppa, only infinitely more rewarding, as you learn about ancient history, myth, politics and social life as you eagerly follow Medea's life journey)
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