Review of Ima Aphrodite Thorne
-
Mikespice Mike
- Book of the Month Participant
- Posts: 174
- Joined: 22 May 2023, 05:02
- Currently Reading:
- Bookshelf Size: 110
- Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-mikespice-mike.html
- Latest Review: MURDER On Big Stony Lonesome by Frederick Poss
Review of Ima Aphrodite Thorne
[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Ima Aphrodite Thorne" by David Trapp.]
Ima Aphrodite Thorne is a novel by David Trapp that recounts the life of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and beauty, in human form from 1820 to 1919. The book serves as a fictional memoir, encompassing numerous historical events from her lifetime, including the Civil War, the assassinations of two Presidents, and the attempted killing of another. The narrative delves into Aphrodite's relationships with men who bear resemblance to the gods she was entangled with in mythology, such as Ares, Hephaestus, Hermes, and Dionysus.
This work stands as a unique and original fusion of mythology and history, artfully intertwining both elements to create a plausible and engaging scenario for Aphrodite's presence among mortals. The narrative is thoroughly researched, enriched with historical details and references that lend authenticity. Additionally, it interjects moments of humor and irony, as Aphrodite reflects on the behavior and culture of humanity she observes and encounters.
Beyond being a love story, the book serves as a contemplation of human nature, morality, and destiny. Aphrodite, embodying the goddess of love, undergoes various forms of love—passion, lust, friendship, loyalty, and sacrifice. She also confronts diverse challenges and conflicts, including jealousy, betrayal, violence, war, and death. Throughout, she learns to grapple with human emotions, joys, sorrows, and the preciousness of life. Moreover, she questions her role and purpose, both as a goddess and as a human, pondering the fate of her divine family.
The narrative boasts robust character development. Aphrodite emerges as a complex and captivating protagonist, evolving as the story unfolds. Imperfect and inherently human, she exhibits strengths, weaknesses, virtues, vices, hopes, and fears. She strikes a balance between relatability and mystique, making her character all the more intriguing. Supporting characters are equally well-crafted, possessing distinct personalities, backgrounds, motivations, and aspirations. These individuals transcend stereotypes, emerging as authentic and dynamic figures.
I would rate "Ima Aphrodite Thorne" by David Trapp with 4 out of 5 stars. This book offers a highly original and creative blend of mythology and history, delivered in an enthralling manner. It boasts a well-executed narrative, abundant in historical nuances and references that enhance its authenticity. The infusion of humor and irony, via Aphrodite's observations on human behavior and culture, adds depth to the story.
However, the reason for not awarding a full five stars lies in the occasional excessiveness of detail in some parts and the perceived irrelevance of certain events or characters to the primary plot. Additionally, some of the romantic scenes, for my taste, ventured into excessive explicitness, and certain dialogues felt overly modern or informal for the historical setting. Condensing the book without compromising its essence and quality might have improved it. In terms of editing, the author performed well, but I did encounter a few grammatical errors and typos that, if addressed, could enhance the reading experience.
In summary, "Ima Aphrodite Thorne" is a brilliant and engaging novel that will resonate with readers interested in mythology, history, romance, adventure, drama, and humor. The book is masterfully composed, immersing readers in a compelling and entertaining narrative that will hold their attention to the very end. It encompasses elements of romance, adventure, drama, and humor, evoking laughter, tears, introspection, and emotion. I highly recommend this book to anyone seeking an original, creative, informative, and enjoyable novel.
******
Ima Aphrodite Thorne
View: on Bookshelves
Ima Aphrodite Thorne is a novel by David Trapp that recounts the life of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and beauty, in human form from 1820 to 1919. The book serves as a fictional memoir, encompassing numerous historical events from her lifetime, including the Civil War, the assassinations of two Presidents, and the attempted killing of another. The narrative delves into Aphrodite's relationships with men who bear resemblance to the gods she was entangled with in mythology, such as Ares, Hephaestus, Hermes, and Dionysus.
This work stands as a unique and original fusion of mythology and history, artfully intertwining both elements to create a plausible and engaging scenario for Aphrodite's presence among mortals. The narrative is thoroughly researched, enriched with historical details and references that lend authenticity. Additionally, it interjects moments of humor and irony, as Aphrodite reflects on the behavior and culture of humanity she observes and encounters.
Beyond being a love story, the book serves as a contemplation of human nature, morality, and destiny. Aphrodite, embodying the goddess of love, undergoes various forms of love—passion, lust, friendship, loyalty, and sacrifice. She also confronts diverse challenges and conflicts, including jealousy, betrayal, violence, war, and death. Throughout, she learns to grapple with human emotions, joys, sorrows, and the preciousness of life. Moreover, she questions her role and purpose, both as a goddess and as a human, pondering the fate of her divine family.
The narrative boasts robust character development. Aphrodite emerges as a complex and captivating protagonist, evolving as the story unfolds. Imperfect and inherently human, she exhibits strengths, weaknesses, virtues, vices, hopes, and fears. She strikes a balance between relatability and mystique, making her character all the more intriguing. Supporting characters are equally well-crafted, possessing distinct personalities, backgrounds, motivations, and aspirations. These individuals transcend stereotypes, emerging as authentic and dynamic figures.
I would rate "Ima Aphrodite Thorne" by David Trapp with 4 out of 5 stars. This book offers a highly original and creative blend of mythology and history, delivered in an enthralling manner. It boasts a well-executed narrative, abundant in historical nuances and references that enhance its authenticity. The infusion of humor and irony, via Aphrodite's observations on human behavior and culture, adds depth to the story.
However, the reason for not awarding a full five stars lies in the occasional excessiveness of detail in some parts and the perceived irrelevance of certain events or characters to the primary plot. Additionally, some of the romantic scenes, for my taste, ventured into excessive explicitness, and certain dialogues felt overly modern or informal for the historical setting. Condensing the book without compromising its essence and quality might have improved it. In terms of editing, the author performed well, but I did encounter a few grammatical errors and typos that, if addressed, could enhance the reading experience.
In summary, "Ima Aphrodite Thorne" is a brilliant and engaging novel that will resonate with readers interested in mythology, history, romance, adventure, drama, and humor. The book is masterfully composed, immersing readers in a compelling and entertaining narrative that will hold their attention to the very end. It encompasses elements of romance, adventure, drama, and humor, evoking laughter, tears, introspection, and emotion. I highly recommend this book to anyone seeking an original, creative, informative, and enjoyable novel.
******
Ima Aphrodite Thorne
View: on Bookshelves
Imperfection is beauty madness is genius and it's better to be absolutely ridiculous.
Latest Review: MURDER On Big Stony Lonesome by Frederick Poss
