Review of Maiden of Artemis by Eloise Bahr

 

Before the men of myth and legend, there was Otrera, first Queen of the Amazons.

It wasn’t until the prince’s blood coated Otrera’s hands that she realized she’d sentenced herself to death. In her darkest hour, Artemis offers her a second chance at life and freedom. But in return the goddess commands unwavering loyalty and sends her on a formidable quest.

Joined by women who swiftly become sisters along the way, Otrera’s journey is tangled by prophecy and unexpected discoveries, and she is faced with a decision that will alter her life forever.

Fleeing from men and monsters alike, Otrera and her companions travel across Ancient Greece in search of what was promised. Each day she learns more about herself and the dangers of her world. Yet the closer she gets to fulfilling her quest, the further Otrera drifts from her pledge to Artemis.

Pursued by a vengeful king and his relentless champion, Otrera discovers how far she’ll go to keep her sisters safe. But nothing, not even a divine weapon, can protect her from the wrath of the gods.

So begins the story of the tribe feared by heroes and kings alike.

This adult historical fantasy series is intended for a mature audience due to trigger warnings for language, violence and death, and sexual situations.

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I saw this cover and knew I couldn't walk away. I'm obsessed with Greek myths, but the legend of the first queen of the Amazons is vaguer to me, and I had to read this version of it.

This story is the tale of a mortal woman caught up in the whims of gods and men as she tries to find a way to survive. It is an adventure, with an ever growing cast of women as Otera tries to figure out her quest in an ancient Greek landscape. Well I would have enjoyed the story significantly more and been better immersed if it was closer to PG-13 than R, I did enjoy the exploration of women's roles in ancient society and Otera seeking a better life for herself and those who joined her journey. I also very much enjoyed the romance, which is slow burn and not resolved by the end of the book, but I am compelled to continue the series to see where that goes. I would recommend not brushing up on the myth until you're halfway through this book like I did so you can have a chance to guess who the love interest for Otera truly is.

Note to more sensitive readers: As mentioned in the blurb, there are several triggering things. There are several instances of strong language scattered throughout. There is violence and death shown on-screen and off, including the death of children.There is a SA attempt and the horror leading to it. There are women of a certain profession who are not shy about pursuing that profession and their relationships with each other graphically as well as explaining things to the heroine who is beginning to regret her vow to Artemis. There is one scene I had to skip completely when the heroine was alone. The ending is also especially emotional and I am still processing it.

I received a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.

If you love Greek myths and legends of old, this book is for you.

 Check it out on Amazon