5.0 out of 5 stars Superb Historical Fiction set in ancient Greece.
Reviewed in the United States on January 8, 2024
I initially baulked at this hefty tome and wondered how I would manage to wade through it, but nothing prepared me for how much I would embrace this outstanding work of historical fiction from Yvonne Korshak. I felt as if I had been transported to ancient Greece, in all its glory and splendour – the evocative imagery of sights, sounds and smells were vividly portrayed and I lingered and pondered over the endearing use of language throughout the book. I’m fervently hoping there will be a continuation of sorts from this gifted author.
The story follows the highly-respected statesman, Pericles and his courtesan, the mysterious Aspasia and their well-documented love affair. Aspasia has been taken from her home and on meeting Pericles a love match is born, but will it impinge upon the good reputation of Pericles and cause him to ponder over many of his country’s laws and societal norms?
The delightful characters, Sophocles the playwright and Silky, Aspasia’s courtesan friend, are vivid and come alive between the book’s pages. From the shores of the Port of Piraeus across the Aegean Sea to eastern Greece, we see the treacherous paths that have to be negotiated and the high stakes involved.
This book was a memorable read and I highly recommend it to lovers of superb historical fiction.
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