Book Review: Odysseus On The Rhine

Reviewed By: Harriet Klausner

Odysseus On The Rhine     Amazon US HC Amazon Canada HC
Edward S. Louis
Class/Genre:   Fantasy   Historical   Mythology
Five Star, Apr 2005, $25.95, 235 pp.

Odysseus is home after fighting in the Trojan War and battling with gods, monsters, and the supernatural. He and his faithful wife Penelope celebrate the wedding of their oldest son, but it is a bittersweet reunion because they both know she is dying. After Penelope dies, Odysseus feels restless and wants to go on an adventure; the gods heed his call and send him a vision of a blond haired woman in the Northlands.

Several defeated Trojans also make their way to the Northlands and defeated the local tribes. The Trojans have created a new empire that is expanding. Odysseus and several Trojan War vets, their sons and even Achilles’ grandson head north to stop the Trojans. On the sea voyage, they fight hostile enemies, make peace with Poseidon, and listen to Athena as they help the tribes with their advanced technology. Ultimately Odysseus must find the blond female who will teach him there is more to life than battle and killing.

Displaying guts, chutzpah, or lunacy, Edward S. Louis creates the further adventures of Odysseus following up on his Homeric role with the thousand ships, the burning of the towers, and the “gift” horse. Homer would agree that Mr. Louis stayed true with his original persona of the legendary Greek hero. The further adventures are exciting and well written as Odysseus turns from restless warrior to contented royal advisor.

Harriet Klausner

Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Harriet Klausner