Review of The Erinyes

[mmm17]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "The Erinyes" by C.S. Powles.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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The Erinyes is a fantasy novel written by C.S. Powles. This imaginative book is a creative and innovative retelling of King Arthur’s epic saga, told from several perspectives, with a refreshingly feminine undertone.

As the story begins, readers follow Queen Ygraine instruct her three daughters, Morgana, Elaine, and Morgause, whom she calls her "Furies." Ygraine wants them to plot revenge for what she had to endure in life. Morgana, Elaine, and Morgause are to invoke and become Maeguira, Alecto, and Tisiphone to seek Ygraine’s revenge. Ygraine’s first husband (the princesses’ father) was killed by Uther, who raped Ygraine. Arthur, their son, instructed by the power-hungry Merlin, became king, usurping Morgana’s rightful throne. Now the princesses are out to avenge their mother.

There are several positives to this entertaining book. I’ll start with what I liked the most – the multiple points of view and voices in the development of the story. The author skillfully shifts the narration to reflect different points of focus, and I appreciated how she managed to achieve this. Powles pieces the numerous elements together very well. Above all, the female characters color the story and seem to burst off the pages. The author does a great job of portraying the female psyche. For instance, I enjoyed Ygraine's no-nonsense interpretation of what truly happened to her and how it differs from the traditional male perspective we’re used to.

Additionally, I enjoyed the overall tone of the book, full of vivacity, humor, and romance. The book has an impressively light-hearted and magical atmosphere. Morgana, for instance, lives in an enchanted realm, in a castle of clouds on the other side of an enchanted forest, and she runs the School of Enchantment for Young Ladies. The enchanted realm includes dragons, fairies, unicorns, and wolves, as well as shapeshifting. I particularly enjoyed Llareggub, aka Lesley, a fairy beast with dragon blood. Lesley is an important element in the plot, for he keeps Morgana company. Lesley brings a lot of fun and humor to the plot, as well as surprises. But I cannot give away any spoilers.

In closing, I’m glad to give the book the highest rating; I rate it 4 out of 4 stars. I have no negatives to mention. It seemed professionally edited, for I only found a few minor editing mishaps in it. Prospective readers should be aware that it is not a quick read, though. Nonetheless, if you enjoy folk tales, especially ones that involve magical elements, you should consider reading The Erinyes. If you dislike non-traditional renderings of well-known stories and myths, you might not like it as much.

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The Erinyes
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[TheGayOne12]

Fantasy novels with multiple points of view are the best for sure. Amazing review!

[Amy Luman]

I like to hear differing points of view on the same story. Many times the only side heard is the male’s.

[Leasa Ana Maria]

So the book is in the same universe as the King Arthur and Merlin stories, interesting. Thank you for the review.

[Aisha Yakub]

I'd be interested in reading a book with multiple points of views. Great review.

[Essy Nma]

A desriois amd skillful way of putting out the best. Thanks for the review.

[Precious_Nzeakor]

Sound nothing like the original, Merlin, but I love the new perspective to the tale.

[Mmaduabuchi Eze]

I love the aspect of multiple points of views. And just now, this novel is drawing my interest to fantasy books.

[Ay Obaj]

I love it when books storyline are constructed perfectly, and contains every single element of thrill. A book like this will surely wow any reader. Thanks for a honest review.

[NetMassimo]

Retelling a great classic such as King Arthur's saga is far from easy but C.S. Powles seems to have done a terrific job adapting the story to modern times. Thank you for your great review!