What do you think?
Rate this book
Homeric Chronicles #2
Rise of Princes: A Greek Myth and Trojan War Retelling
Fans of Greek mythology and Trojan War retellings will be eager to continue the Homeric Chronicles series with Rise of Princes.Slowly, Achilles rose to his feet, and the throng of soldiers hushed. With a lion’s roar, he shouted, “I will kill them all!”
Rise of Princes transports you to an age of undying love and legendary valor, where the resolute souls of the Trojan War era come to life in exquisite detail. The enchanting tales of both heroines and heroes beckon you to revisit the passion of kings and queens, lovers and haters, gods and goddesses.
As the Trojan War rages on with no end in sight, the towering figures of the dauntless Achilles and the gallant Hector arise. Amidst the clash of armies and the destiny of empires, these iconic heroes dominate the shadows and the light.
Yet, beyond the tumult of battle and the triumphs of the field, it's the women who illuminate the very heart and soul of the conflict. With a tenacity forged by love, they navigate a world of uncertainty, relying on their cunning and wisdom to thrive in an era of upheaval.
Clytemnestra grapples with the aftermath of Agamemnon’s betrayal, and Penelope must learn to govern on her own merits. Across the wine-dark sea in the east, Helen learns how to live among strangers and under the ever-watchful and disdainful eye of the most powerful woman in Queen Hecuba. As queens, mothers, mystics, and slaves, their stories of love and loss, passion and sacrifice, transcend the ages.
If Greek mythology and the Trojan War retelling captivate your imagination, Rise of Princes will become your literary escape. Step into a world where passion knows no bounds, where history, myth, and romance entwine, and where the essence of an age long past is brought back to life with spellbinding grace. The journey is just a click away.
*This series is intended for a mature audience due to trigger warnings for war violence and sexual situations.
Rise of Princes transports you to an age of undying love and legendary valor, where the resolute souls of the Trojan War era come to life in exquisite detail. The enchanting tales of both heroines and heroes beckon you to revisit the passion of kings and queens, lovers and haters, gods and goddesses.
As the Trojan War rages on with no end in sight, the towering figures of the dauntless Achilles and the gallant Hector arise. Amidst the clash of armies and the destiny of empires, these iconic heroes dominate the shadows and the light.
Yet, beyond the tumult of battle and the triumphs of the field, it's the women who illuminate the very heart and soul of the conflict. With a tenacity forged by love, they navigate a world of uncertainty, relying on their cunning and wisdom to thrive in an era of upheaval.
Clytemnestra grapples with the aftermath of Agamemnon’s betrayal, and Penelope must learn to govern on her own merits. Across the wine-dark sea in the east, Helen learns how to live among strangers and under the ever-watchful and disdainful eye of the most powerful woman in Queen Hecuba. As queens, mothers, mystics, and slaves, their stories of love and loss, passion and sacrifice, transcend the ages.
If Greek mythology and the Trojan War retelling captivate your imagination, Rise of Princes will become your literary escape. Step into a world where passion knows no bounds, where history, myth, and romance entwine, and where the essence of an age long past is brought back to life with spellbinding grace. The journey is just a click away.
*This series is intended for a mature audience due to trigger warnings for war violence and sexual situations.
491 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 13, 2017
About the author
Janell Rhiannon
9 books209 followersI write historical fiction and fantasy. I am fascinated by Greek mythology. In graduate school, I focused on the ancient history of Greece and Rome. Hooked by the “sword and sandal” world, I studied everything I could about mythology and Alexander the Great.
The Homeric Chronicles series is dedicated to merging dozens of Greek myths, including Homer’s epics, with plays, history, and archaeology. My intent is to raise the heroines’ voices equally alongside the heroes, opening up a traditionally male focused genre to a female audience.
I live in CA and enjoy spending time with my children and grandchildren. I have a pack of two big dogs and two cats. I love to hear from readers. My favorite spot to scroll through is Twitter!
Interested in knowing more about the Greek heroes and heroines of Greek myth? Listen to my podcast Greek Mythology Retold. Available at iTunes and all other major podcast platforms.
*Other links available on webpage.
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/g...
Homeric Chronicles (Historical Fiction/Mythology):
#1 Song of Sacrifice
#2 Rise of Princes
#3 Rage of Queens (WIP)
#4 Return of Kings (WIP)
Find me at:
Janell Rhiannon's website: www.janellrhiannon.com
Twitter https://twitter.com/theravenangel
YouTube @ Janell Rhiannon https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-cj...
Facebook @Janell Rhiannon Author https://www.facebook.com/JanellRhiann...
Instagram @ janell_rhiannon https://www.instagram.com/janell_rhia...
Pinterest @ Janell Rhiannon
The Homeric Chronicles series is dedicated to merging dozens of Greek myths, including Homer’s epics, with plays, history, and archaeology. My intent is to raise the heroines’ voices equally alongside the heroes, opening up a traditionally male focused genre to a female audience.
I live in CA and enjoy spending time with my children and grandchildren. I have a pack of two big dogs and two cats. I love to hear from readers. My favorite spot to scroll through is Twitter!
Interested in knowing more about the Greek heroes and heroines of Greek myth? Listen to my podcast Greek Mythology Retold. Available at iTunes and all other major podcast platforms.
*Other links available on webpage.
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/g...
Homeric Chronicles (Historical Fiction/Mythology):
#1 Song of Sacrifice
#2 Rise of Princes
#3 Rage of Queens (WIP)
#4 Return of Kings (WIP)
Find me at:
Janell Rhiannon's website: www.janellrhiannon.com
Twitter https://twitter.com/theravenangel
YouTube @ Janell Rhiannon https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-cj...
Facebook @Janell Rhiannon Author https://www.facebook.com/JanellRhiann...
Instagram @ janell_rhiannon https://www.instagram.com/janell_rhia...
Pinterest @ Janell Rhiannon
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
June 24, 2019
It took me a while to get around to it but I finally read Rise of Princes. And I loved it! I've become a real fan of mythology retellings, especially when they revolve around the Trojan War, like this one. Just like with the first book, Song of Sascrifice, this was a fantastic read. It was definitely a worthy sequel and I can't wait to read book three.
I already mentioned this in my recent review of the first book but again I loved the writing so so so so much. It really was beautiful. The writing is just so detailed and wonderful to read. I couldn't get enough of it. I just can't say anything negative about it.
I also loved reading about all the various characters, of course. There are quite a few but the author managed to write them all in such a uniquely way that it doesn't feel like too much like it sometimes can be with other books, if that makes sense.
My favorite characters were Briseis and Achilles, especialy Briseis. In almost any retelling of this story I just can't help but ship them even though I know it won't end well for them. I absolutely loved how Janell Rhiannon wrote them. They make my heart ache so much. Seriously. I also continue to love Odyseuss because he's so clever and still devoted to his wife.
Aside from some romance (which can be very heartbreaking) there's also a lot of action and battles, obviously. This is omething that I also highly enjoy reading about. Give me all the battles! I also feel like I should mention there's also a lot of tragedy. There's definitely no shying away from the tough subjects in this book, which I love.
Like I said before I absolutely can't wait to read book three. I think it's coming out in December. This is perfect because that's actually my birthday month. I'm really looking forward to the next part of the story!
I already mentioned this in my recent review of the first book but again I loved the writing so so so so much. It really was beautiful. The writing is just so detailed and wonderful to read. I couldn't get enough of it. I just can't say anything negative about it.
I also loved reading about all the various characters, of course. There are quite a few but the author managed to write them all in such a uniquely way that it doesn't feel like too much like it sometimes can be with other books, if that makes sense.
My favorite characters were Briseis and Achilles, especialy Briseis. In almost any retelling of this story I just can't help but ship them even though I know it won't end well for them. I absolutely loved how Janell Rhiannon wrote them. They make my heart ache so much. Seriously. I also continue to love Odyseuss because he's so clever and still devoted to his wife.
Aside from some romance (which can be very heartbreaking) there's also a lot of action and battles, obviously. This is omething that I also highly enjoy reading about. Give me all the battles! I also feel like I should mention there's also a lot of tragedy. There's definitely no shying away from the tough subjects in this book, which I love.
Like I said before I absolutely can't wait to read book three. I think it's coming out in December. This is perfect because that's actually my birthday month. I'm really looking forward to the next part of the story!
June 15, 2017
* I received an ecopy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review *
When I was contacted about reading this book i was very excited since I loved the world created in book 1 full of characters to love and hate. I was a little worried I would forget things since the cast of characters is large, but it was written in a way that gave me new information while also reminding me a little of the things from the past so there was no need to worry, I caught on right away and was hooked until the end.
I really loved how the story flowed perfectly over such a grand scale, there are so many people playing their part in this epic war and they are perfectly blended so the reader gets to experience the war from every angle, and let me just say that most if these tales are full of heartbreak and tragedy. I like getting the point of view from the God's that are playing a game with the humans from above, each one choosing a side and communicating prophecy for their own gain....I loved how devious it was.
My favorite favorite thing about this series is the strong female characters the author has written, they all suffer so much at the hands of the men in their lives playing war amd using these poor ladies as chess pieces but they seem to find a way to rise above and play their own games, one day I aspire to be as strong as these women.
This book has a crazy ending that leaves me wanting more! I am beyond excited for the rest of this series!!
I highly recommend this book!!!!!
When I was contacted about reading this book i was very excited since I loved the world created in book 1 full of characters to love and hate. I was a little worried I would forget things since the cast of characters is large, but it was written in a way that gave me new information while also reminding me a little of the things from the past so there was no need to worry, I caught on right away and was hooked until the end.
I really loved how the story flowed perfectly over such a grand scale, there are so many people playing their part in this epic war and they are perfectly blended so the reader gets to experience the war from every angle, and let me just say that most if these tales are full of heartbreak and tragedy. I like getting the point of view from the God's that are playing a game with the humans from above, each one choosing a side and communicating prophecy for their own gain....I loved how devious it was.
My favorite favorite thing about this series is the strong female characters the author has written, they all suffer so much at the hands of the men in their lives playing war amd using these poor ladies as chess pieces but they seem to find a way to rise above and play their own games, one day I aspire to be as strong as these women.
This book has a crazy ending that leaves me wanting more! I am beyond excited for the rest of this series!!
I highly recommend this book!!!!!
April 28, 2021
DNF. I just can’t. I was already lukewarm going into this book because Song of Sacrifice exhausted me. This book did absolutely nothing for me. It took just 12 pages for the dreaded “balls of Zeus” that this author is so obsessed with to appear, testing my will right from the start.
The entire beginning of this book is just insufferable dialogue and next to nothing else. Oh, spelling and grammatical errors too.
“I grow old waiting for the point.”- Achilles, chapter three. Me too buddy, me too.
Chapters of boring dialogue and then finally the book starts to become more narrative when we see Paris again for the first time. It’s there that this book finally attempted to reveal a bit more of Paris’ feelings and motivations, which I thought the previous book was lacking but it was a bit too little too late here.
I tried to power through this book, I really did. Mid-way through, the ridiculous sex scenes started to seem like they were popping up on every other page and I could not stop my eyes from rolling back into my skull anymore.
The entire beginning of this book is just insufferable dialogue and next to nothing else. Oh, spelling and grammatical errors too.
“I grow old waiting for the point.”- Achilles, chapter three. Me too buddy, me too.
Chapters of boring dialogue and then finally the book starts to become more narrative when we see Paris again for the first time. It’s there that this book finally attempted to reveal a bit more of Paris’ feelings and motivations, which I thought the previous book was lacking but it was a bit too little too late here.
I tried to power through this book, I really did. Mid-way through, the ridiculous sex scenes started to seem like they were popping up on every other page and I could not stop my eyes from rolling back into my skull anymore.
March 9, 2020
“Do not underestimate the power of a mother. Who do you think it is that gentles the wildness and recklessness of men? It is not by words of fathers and uncles that men learn compassion … resiliency and gather inner strength for their iron hearts. No, it is by their mothers they gain such gifts.”
“Do not criticize the gods so openly. Their retribution is harsh.”
“I know full well the extent of their retribution. I require no warnings from you. Obedient or not, they punish our family. They have taken all of Hektor’s children. My son has no heir, yet remains a faithful husband.
Rise of Princes is the continuation of the Homeric Chronicles series which is a retelling of the famous story of the Trojan War. In this book the Forgotten Prince of Troy, Paris had already brought Helen to Tory and in retaliation, her husband King Menelaus of Sparta along with his brother King Agamemnon of Mycenae had assembled a large army and traveled to the shores of Tory. The siege of Troy had begun, but the great city will not fall so easily. This is only the beginning of the long protracted war in which the gods will pit their own chosen heroes against each other and fights alongside them on blood-slick battlefields. Amid the carnage and chaos, Achilles, prince of Phthia will rise to fame by sacking and plundering the allied cities and killing and enslaving the people of the Troad.
"What is wrong with me? She sits in misery, yet I can only think of taking her. We are cursed. Our love is cursed."
Review:
🍂The cover is beautiful but I like the first edition's cover while title I felt appropriate referring to the rise of Achilles here.
🍂Loved how the story is plotted over such a grand scale, there are so many characters playing their part in this epic war and they are perfectly blended to give the reader different perspectives of the war.
🍂All the characters are perfectly fleshed out, layered and immaculately developed. However, Achilles' character had overshadowed them all in this book.
🍂Liked the female characters of this series - all strong woman with an iron will and determination. My favorites are Clytemnestra, Hecuba, and the new addition Briseis.
🍂The writing is fast pacing, detailed and easy to read. Liked how Janell perfectly captured human emotions and flaws in precise words. However more detailing is needed on her battle scenes.
🍂The book involved many minor cities that Achilles raised to the ground. I would have appreciated it if a detailed map of Troad had been given in the book.
🍂I am glad that the book had a character list at the end, otherwise it would have been impossible for me to remember the names of each and every character.
🍂I didn't like the ending. It doesn't provide any satisfactory conclusion neither to the book nor to any characters.
Although I liked Song of Sacrifice more than Rise of Princes, I'm really looking forward to the next book in the series. I highly recommend picking up this series if you are a historical fiction lover/ love strong female characters/ wants to read a good retelling of the Trojan War.
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
“Do not criticize the gods so openly. Their retribution is harsh.”
“I know full well the extent of their retribution. I require no warnings from you. Obedient or not, they punish our family. They have taken all of Hektor’s children. My son has no heir, yet remains a faithful husband.
Rise of Princes is the continuation of the Homeric Chronicles series which is a retelling of the famous story of the Trojan War. In this book the Forgotten Prince of Troy, Paris had already brought Helen to Tory and in retaliation, her husband King Menelaus of Sparta along with his brother King Agamemnon of Mycenae had assembled a large army and traveled to the shores of Tory. The siege of Troy had begun, but the great city will not fall so easily. This is only the beginning of the long protracted war in which the gods will pit their own chosen heroes against each other and fights alongside them on blood-slick battlefields. Amid the carnage and chaos, Achilles, prince of Phthia will rise to fame by sacking and plundering the allied cities and killing and enslaving the people of the Troad.
"What is wrong with me? She sits in misery, yet I can only think of taking her. We are cursed. Our love is cursed."
Review:
🍂The cover is beautiful but I like the first edition's cover while title I felt appropriate referring to the rise of Achilles here.
🍂Loved how the story is plotted over such a grand scale, there are so many characters playing their part in this epic war and they are perfectly blended to give the reader different perspectives of the war.
🍂All the characters are perfectly fleshed out, layered and immaculately developed. However, Achilles' character had overshadowed them all in this book.
🍂Liked the female characters of this series - all strong woman with an iron will and determination. My favorites are Clytemnestra, Hecuba, and the new addition Briseis.
🍂The writing is fast pacing, detailed and easy to read. Liked how Janell perfectly captured human emotions and flaws in precise words. However more detailing is needed on her battle scenes.
🍂The book involved many minor cities that Achilles raised to the ground. I would have appreciated it if a detailed map of Troad had been given in the book.
🍂I am glad that the book had a character list at the end, otherwise it would have been impossible for me to remember the names of each and every character.
🍂I didn't like the ending. It doesn't provide any satisfactory conclusion neither to the book nor to any characters.
Although I liked Song of Sacrifice more than Rise of Princes, I'm really looking forward to the next book in the series. I highly recommend picking up this series if you are a historical fiction lover/ love strong female characters/ wants to read a good retelling of the Trojan War.
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
October 30, 2019
This was a great sequel. I wasn’t as wrapped as I was in the first book, but sequels do that. Ms Rhiannon still knows how to unravel a myth. She still knows how to make history ourstory, and exciting.
March 14, 2021
I really tried to like this book.
I love the idea- retelling the story of the Trojan war in all its details is more than an interesting concept and can work really well. Sadly it didn´t work in this case.
First of I was put off by the spelling mistakes. Small mistakes that should have easily been avoided (Spatha instead of Sparta, names that are misspelled). Besides that, some scenes also had continuity errors, listing a goddess on the Side of the Trojans before listing her on the side of the greeks on the same page. All these small mistakes pilled up and really threw me out of the story.
Sadly the characters couldn´t save the story either. There was hardly any character development and I don´t remember a single meaningful connection between any of the characters.
Achilles and Patroclus are sadly a prime example of that. The author decided to not portray their relationship as a romantic one, but I could have respected that if it still had the deep and personal nature that it should have. As far as I know, the author decided against a romance to instead focus on the deep and personal bound soldiers form in war, and if that would have been done well it could have been great. Instead, we have two guys who throw punches and insults at each other while saying "Cousin" at least 50 times. Achilles isn´t likable and all he does is fight or chase a woman. I see what the author is trying to do- to show how the war broke a man. Sadly Achilles never had a personality from the start. The way he behaves at the start of the book might have been a better fit for the end. Just saying that Patroclus and Achilles are close with never showing them grow close or have a meaningful moment just doesn´t do it.
At last, the book was also extremely repetitive. A male and a female character in a scene? You better expect them to have sex at the end of that scene. The description for said sex is almost always the same to the point that it can easily be skipped after the first ten times.
In the end, I really couldn´t enjoy the book. I can see that effort has been put into it, but it should have gone through for edits and changes before being published.
I love the idea- retelling the story of the Trojan war in all its details is more than an interesting concept and can work really well. Sadly it didn´t work in this case.
First of I was put off by the spelling mistakes. Small mistakes that should have easily been avoided (Spatha instead of Sparta, names that are misspelled). Besides that, some scenes also had continuity errors, listing a goddess on the Side of the Trojans before listing her on the side of the greeks on the same page. All these small mistakes pilled up and really threw me out of the story.
Sadly the characters couldn´t save the story either. There was hardly any character development and I don´t remember a single meaningful connection between any of the characters.
Achilles and Patroclus are sadly a prime example of that. The author decided to not portray their relationship as a romantic one, but I could have respected that if it still had the deep and personal nature that it should have. As far as I know, the author decided against a romance to instead focus on the deep and personal bound soldiers form in war, and if that would have been done well it could have been great. Instead, we have two guys who throw punches and insults at each other while saying "Cousin" at least 50 times. Achilles isn´t likable and all he does is fight or chase a woman. I see what the author is trying to do- to show how the war broke a man. Sadly Achilles never had a personality from the start. The way he behaves at the start of the book might have been a better fit for the end. Just saying that Patroclus and Achilles are close with never showing them grow close or have a meaningful moment just doesn´t do it.
At last, the book was also extremely repetitive. A male and a female character in a scene? You better expect them to have sex at the end of that scene. The description for said sex is almost always the same to the point that it can easily be skipped after the first ten times.
In the end, I really couldn´t enjoy the book. I can see that effort has been put into it, but it should have gone through for edits and changes before being published.
June 9, 2017
I loved EVERYTHING about this sequel! It is one of my favorite books of 2017. The characters are so rich and layered. I adore Achilles. He always put a smile on my face and I enjoyed hating Agamemnon. Clytemnestra continues to pull at my heart strings and I want her to get her revenge. My favorite new character was Briseis who is likable and strong. She finds herself in a difficult position and I liked watching the relationship grow and change between her and Achilles. But there are many other characters who, whether they play a main part in the story or small, are all complex and very well written. I found myself becoming attached to all of them and invested in their stories and futures. The story is detailed and engaging and you will want to finish it in one sitting. Every chapter leaves you wanting to read just one more and before you know it you are done and dying to read book 3. I felt so many emotions while reading this book. I actually cried at one part which is rare for me when reading. I'm in awe of this author's ability to breath new life into such a well known story and it's characters. The writing is so good. I could vividly picture every character and location, whether they were in the middle of an intense battle scene or quiet moment. There is not a wasted word in this story and the pacing is fast and exciting. I can not recommend this book series highly enough. If you love a wonderful story filled fantastic characters and a book that you won't want to put down then this is the perfect book for you. Just be warned it is very addicting and it may ruin it for the next book you plan to read as you will still thinking about these characters and obsessed with finding out what will happen to them next. I know I am!
May 13, 2017
I can not say enough good things about this book. Janell Rhiannon's telling of the Homeric Chronicles is amazing. Her characters are rich with details and emotions that pull you into their lives. Clytemnestra is my favorite. I cried with her, got angry when she did and felt the love she has for her children. Achilles has a well earned ego bigger than the Trojan horse, but a heart that is tender for those he loves.
Janell Rhiannon kills it with this series. It's one I highly recommend. 5 stars!
Janell Rhiannon kills it with this series. It's one I highly recommend. 5 stars!
June 6, 2017
Beautifully written epic tale of history and mythology. I felt as though I was walking amongst the pages straight into Greece to face the Trojan skyscrapers and discover the Forgotten Prince. Two enthusiastic thumbs up!
January 22, 2020
Trojan war and myths
This author is fantastic Her books bring the story of Trojan war to life in different telling of story Excellent read
This author is fantastic Her books bring the story of Trojan war to life in different telling of story Excellent read
May 24, 2017
Once again a beautifully written story with a beautiful flow to it! These characters are so relatable in so many ways. No matter what they do, you understand where they're coming from because that is the depth in how they're written. Even when they do something atrocious and you want to hate them you just cannot do it. From the get go the book gets your emotions flowing, whether it's sadness, happiness, incredulity, and everything else in between, you'll find it here. Lovers of history and mythology, you'd think this is the same but it is not...it is soooo much more and worth your time. Explore these characters, you wont regret it!
June 13, 2017
After enjoying the first book in the Homeric Chronicles “Song of Princes”, I was really looking forward to reading its follow-up. Was I disappointed? I am very happy to say that I wasn’t. Not by a long shot.
I cannot praise Ms. Rhiannon’s talent enough. She’s a phenomenal writer and storyteller. “Rise of Princes” is just as engaging as its predecessor. Maybe even more so! We are deep into the Trojan war now, and the book is action packed. I really appreciated the honest depiction of war. Atrocities occur and characters that you like and root for might do (and are going to do) deplorable things. Ms. Rhiannon didn’t shy away from that. That is realistic storytelling. And I respect that.
Whenever most people think of The Trojan War, the infamous horse and the beautiful Helen are usually the first things that come to mind. But I want to assure you that this is NOT the Helen and Paris Show. There are many intriguing characters in this saga and all of them are very complex and multifaceted. My favorite character is Clytemnestra. She is a woman who has gone through an unbelievable amount of pain and tragedy, and yet she hasn’t fallen apart. She’s a strong woman with an iron will and determination.
Words cannot express how much I am thoroughly enjoying reading the Homeric Chronicles by Janell Rhiannon. I HIGHLY recommend this series, and I can’t wait to read book 3!
I cannot praise Ms. Rhiannon’s talent enough. She’s a phenomenal writer and storyteller. “Rise of Princes” is just as engaging as its predecessor. Maybe even more so! We are deep into the Trojan war now, and the book is action packed. I really appreciated the honest depiction of war. Atrocities occur and characters that you like and root for might do (and are going to do) deplorable things. Ms. Rhiannon didn’t shy away from that. That is realistic storytelling. And I respect that.
Whenever most people think of The Trojan War, the infamous horse and the beautiful Helen are usually the first things that come to mind. But I want to assure you that this is NOT the Helen and Paris Show. There are many intriguing characters in this saga and all of them are very complex and multifaceted. My favorite character is Clytemnestra. She is a woman who has gone through an unbelievable amount of pain and tragedy, and yet she hasn’t fallen apart. She’s a strong woman with an iron will and determination.
Words cannot express how much I am thoroughly enjoying reading the Homeric Chronicles by Janell Rhiannon. I HIGHLY recommend this series, and I can’t wait to read book 3!
July 3, 2017
A really solid continuation and another enjoyable return to the world of Troy; as a diehard lover of Greek mythology, I always take pleasure in reading Janell Rhiannon's version of the tales. What I especially love about Rhiannon's work is the fact I find myself learning so much about a world I already thought I knew extensively and I truly appreciate the intricate interweaving of all the overlapping stories in the Troy saga. While, true to the longevity of the actual conflict, this war is stringed out I enjoyed the opportunity it provided to expand and challenge many characters, particularly that of Achilles whose character arc I thought was novel and morally ambiguous. This story is undeniably difficult and the world it portrays is one that is both brutal and patriarchal and Rhiannon does not shy away from depicting that; while violence against women is a challenge to read, it is in keeping with the actual mythology and encapsulates the ugly underside of these ancient stories, where Gods both exist and yet are decidedly uncooperative and even sadistic.
September 5, 2017
Another Great Installment Of The Homeric Chronicles!!!
First I want to start of by saying I was given a copy of this book the author for my true and honest opinion. Janell Rhiannon has out done herself yet again. Rise Of Princes is just as page turning as it's first installment. Deep into the Trojan war now, there is so much action. The battle scenes are intense the story pace is fastand exciting. Can't wait to get my hands on the third installment.
First I want to start of by saying I was given a copy of this book the author for my true and honest opinion. Janell Rhiannon has out done herself yet again. Rise Of Princes is just as page turning as it's first installment. Deep into the Trojan war now, there is so much action. The battle scenes are intense the story pace is fastand exciting. Can't wait to get my hands on the third installment.
April 20, 2019
Rise of Princes
As with the first book in this series, the second is beautifully written. The characters continue to be intriguing, flawed, lustful. Each character is written so that you can understand their motivations in their battles and machinations.
Odyseuss continues to be my favorite character as I'm able to easily identify with his longing to return home to his wife.
I don't know what else there is to say other than the prospective release date of December is entirely too far away.
July 30, 2020
katie martina
excellent story. passionate writer. took me away from reality. a must read for anyone who enjoys greek mythology and fantasy novels
excellent story. passionate writer. took me away from reality. a must read for anyone who enjoys greek mythology and fantasy novels
July 15, 2019
Good
My curiosity got the best of me so I decided to give Book Two a shot- I neither liked not hated it - I'm ambivalent. I appreciate the author's reply to my review of Book One & read it because of that. I think that if The Trojan War & mythology are your interest, these books are for you. Enjoy.
My curiosity got the best of me so I decided to give Book Two a shot- I neither liked not hated it - I'm ambivalent. I appreciate the author's reply to my review of Book One & read it because of that. I think that if The Trojan War & mythology are your interest, these books are for you. Enjoy.
May 26, 2019
A great follow-up to Song of Sacrifice. I liked them both equally, and I'm glad to see that more books in the series are planned. I can't wait!
Like in the first book in the series, Janell Rhiannon interweaves the most famous characters from the myth of Troy with lesser known figures and myths. Clytemnestra remains my favourite. After everything she has suffered she has become bitter and vengeful, but I completely understood and sympathized with her. Her relationship with Aegisthus was also interesting and not commonplace. I can't wait to see how her story will continue.
As for the male characters, I really liked Odyseuss. He's always been one of my favourite characters from the Iliad, and I appreciated his complex personality, both a devoted husband and a ruthless man when he decided to take revenge on the man responsible for forcing him into the war.
Like in the first book in the series, Janell Rhiannon interweaves the most famous characters from the myth of Troy with lesser known figures and myths. Clytemnestra remains my favourite. After everything she has suffered she has become bitter and vengeful, but I completely understood and sympathized with her. Her relationship with Aegisthus was also interesting and not commonplace. I can't wait to see how her story will continue.
As for the male characters, I really liked Odyseuss. He's always been one of my favourite characters from the Iliad, and I appreciated his complex personality, both a devoted husband and a ruthless man when he decided to take revenge on the man responsible for forcing him into the war.
January 11, 2020
4,5 star
April 30, 2019
The Homeric Choniclea
I really enjoyed these books.I have always loved Greek myth and this author has breathed life into the old stories.
I really enjoyed these books.I have always loved Greek myth and this author has breathed life into the old stories.
Read
May 4, 2020I‘m trying to like Song of Sacrifice and Rise of Princes. I was excited for a retelling of the Iliad from mostly a female perspective, because men in the Greek world are the real monsters imho. My main issue is the writing itself, it looks as though the books haven’t been sent to an editor or proofread. There are issues with character names being misspelled or even changed. It’s a great story and easy to follow, I just feel it could have been a bit more polished.
May 23, 2020
"Rise of Princes" was a huge disappointment for me and I definitely enjoyed the first part in the series way more.
Unfortunately, this book felt rather repetitive and it could have been a good deal shorter if there hadn't been an unnecessary sex scene every couple of pages. The instances of instant-love were especially annoying and none of the romantic relationships added here feels in any way earned or natural.
Apart from the romance plots and sex scenes, the plot also just didn't seem to go anywhere. Clytaemnestra's scenes especially were just really repetitive and seemed to go nowhere.
Considering the source material, it was rather disappointing that this novel didn't manage to make more of it and reduces it to a lot of slow-moving plots and repetitive sex scenes.
Unfortunately, this book felt rather repetitive and it could have been a good deal shorter if there hadn't been an unnecessary sex scene every couple of pages. The instances of instant-love were especially annoying and none of the romantic relationships added here feels in any way earned or natural.
Apart from the romance plots and sex scenes, the plot also just didn't seem to go anywhere. Clytaemnestra's scenes especially were just really repetitive and seemed to go nowhere.
Considering the source material, it was rather disappointing that this novel didn't manage to make more of it and reduces it to a lot of slow-moving plots and repetitive sex scenes.
December 22, 2017
Review to follow
December 18, 2021
For more reviews, head to my blog Chantel Speaks
“You are the fire that burns within my heart. There is room for no other. When I die, it will be your name upon my lips”
It took me way too long to get to this sequel in my TBR, and I have been absolutely so ready to get there. Rise of Princes is the follow-up to Song of Sacrifice, a re-telling of the Trojan War, with a strong emphasis on telling the story from the perspective of the lesser known characters.
The Battle of Troy has begun. The Greek armies swell on the shores and they by begin raiding and taking local cities on their way to conquer Troy. The greed and selfishness of Menelaus reigns over the armies. There are also familiar faces on the battlefield. There’s Odysseus, reluctant for war and keen to be back in Ithaca with his wife and young son. Patrokles, steadfast and loyal to the Myrmidons, and Achilles, the greatest warrior of his time.
“War brought men gold and honour, but for women, it brought only grief and sorrow.”
In particular, I loved reading the tenderness between Hector and Hecuba balanced against the marriage of Mynes and Briseus, contrasted against Briseus’ later relationship with Achilles. Janell Rhiannon has a fine talent for exploring complex social relationships in the backdrop of Troy. I had to continuously remind myself that I may not always agree with how the women in this book are treated or talked about, but that is likely also reflective on the role of women of that period and the realities of women caught in war - where rape, abuse and violence does occur. Its difficult to read, but I understand why this wasn’t shied away from in Rhiannon’s research of the period.
Rise of Princes strongest drawcard is in its exploration of the roles of women through the lens of The Battle of Troy; a war long seen as male-dominated. In Song of Sacrifice, we read the complexity of women caught in the roles deigned by kings, brothers and husbands. In Rise of Princes, we read further into the female experience of war and the balance of femininity, motherhood, childlessness as the women of Greece and Troy are caught in the webs of war, and live in a society where they have little means or rights to act, all while the gods look on.
“There is no greater warrior than a mother protecting her children. No greater heart.”
That is not to say any of the women in this series are meek. The women are warriors as much as their male counterparts; it's just that their war doesn’t take place on a battlefield. We continue reading Clytemnestra’s hate for Agamemnon and her quest for vengeance; Penelope safeguarding Ithaca for Odysseus’ return and the spurn of war as history repeats itself first with Thetis and Achilles and now, Deidamia and Neoptolemus as Achilles’ son is dragged into life as a warrior.
“I will take Troy. By fire, by blood… I will not leave this land until I have razed that fucking city to the ground, or I am burned to ashes before its Great Wall.”
The Battle of Troy is heating up in all the ways I wanted it to. What I love is that this is not just a series about war, there’s a strong line on the role of women in war throughout and the lesser characters that you’ve never understood or seen so powerful. This is a take on Troy that a lover of Greek Mythology and history must read. I can’t wait to pick up Rage of Queens.
Content warning: this book does contain many references to abuse and rape and may be triggering for some.
“You are the fire that burns within my heart. There is room for no other. When I die, it will be your name upon my lips”
It took me way too long to get to this sequel in my TBR, and I have been absolutely so ready to get there. Rise of Princes is the follow-up to Song of Sacrifice, a re-telling of the Trojan War, with a strong emphasis on telling the story from the perspective of the lesser known characters.
The Battle of Troy has begun. The Greek armies swell on the shores and they by begin raiding and taking local cities on their way to conquer Troy. The greed and selfishness of Menelaus reigns over the armies. There are also familiar faces on the battlefield. There’s Odysseus, reluctant for war and keen to be back in Ithaca with his wife and young son. Patrokles, steadfast and loyal to the Myrmidons, and Achilles, the greatest warrior of his time.
“War brought men gold and honour, but for women, it brought only grief and sorrow.”
In particular, I loved reading the tenderness between Hector and Hecuba balanced against the marriage of Mynes and Briseus, contrasted against Briseus’ later relationship with Achilles. Janell Rhiannon has a fine talent for exploring complex social relationships in the backdrop of Troy. I had to continuously remind myself that I may not always agree with how the women in this book are treated or talked about, but that is likely also reflective on the role of women of that period and the realities of women caught in war - where rape, abuse and violence does occur. Its difficult to read, but I understand why this wasn’t shied away from in Rhiannon’s research of the period.
Rise of Princes strongest drawcard is in its exploration of the roles of women through the lens of The Battle of Troy; a war long seen as male-dominated. In Song of Sacrifice, we read the complexity of women caught in the roles deigned by kings, brothers and husbands. In Rise of Princes, we read further into the female experience of war and the balance of femininity, motherhood, childlessness as the women of Greece and Troy are caught in the webs of war, and live in a society where they have little means or rights to act, all while the gods look on.
“There is no greater warrior than a mother protecting her children. No greater heart.”
That is not to say any of the women in this series are meek. The women are warriors as much as their male counterparts; it's just that their war doesn’t take place on a battlefield. We continue reading Clytemnestra’s hate for Agamemnon and her quest for vengeance; Penelope safeguarding Ithaca for Odysseus’ return and the spurn of war as history repeats itself first with Thetis and Achilles and now, Deidamia and Neoptolemus as Achilles’ son is dragged into life as a warrior.
“I will take Troy. By fire, by blood… I will not leave this land until I have razed that fucking city to the ground, or I am burned to ashes before its Great Wall.”
The Battle of Troy is heating up in all the ways I wanted it to. What I love is that this is not just a series about war, there’s a strong line on the role of women in war throughout and the lesser characters that you’ve never understood or seen so powerful. This is a take on Troy that a lover of Greek Mythology and history must read. I can’t wait to pick up Rage of Queens.
Content warning: this book does contain many references to abuse and rape and may be triggering for some.
April 24, 2023
I had hoped that this series would improve and to begin with it looked as if it had finally settled down into real story telling. Sadly it soon derailed itself with more and more graphic sex encounters of the 'A' fits into 'B' nature, as if the author was competing in the Bad Sex awards. The character of Achilles too went rapidly downhill as he took on the role of sacker of cities, pillaging each of Troy's neighbours in turn. At the end of the first volume, there was an interesting development where he tried to save Iphigenia, but all too soon in this he becomes a bloodthirsty sociopath.
The book became a never ending catalogue of human body parts being severed, complete with blood and other bodily fluids, when it wasn't dealing with the compulsory sex romps. It got quite exhausting. I also noticed quite a few errors: misspellings and missing words. I liked the character of Briseis and for that reason am awarding it 2 stars rather than 1.
The book became a never ending catalogue of human body parts being severed, complete with blood and other bodily fluids, when it wasn't dealing with the compulsory sex romps. It got quite exhausting. I also noticed quite a few errors: misspellings and missing words. I liked the character of Briseis and for that reason am awarding it 2 stars rather than 1.
January 26, 2021
Loving this series. The writing seems to have improved in this 2nd book (maybe due to a lot less grammatical errors) and I'm really connecting with the characters and the settings, finding it harder to put the book down each time. Pure indulgence. I'm sure any Greek Myth fan would enjoy. Will definitely be sticking with this series. A shame we have to wait so long for the next paperback.
I do have to mention the sex scenes though. It got to the point where the description of each scene became very predictable, and a bit laughable, imo. If I have to read 'as he touched her sacred folds' one more time.. lol.
A little less of that cringe factor and it would have been 5 stars.
I do have to mention the sex scenes though. It got to the point where the description of each scene became very predictable, and a bit laughable, imo. If I have to read 'as he touched her sacred folds' one more time.. lol.
A little less of that cringe factor and it would have been 5 stars.
November 1, 2021
This is the second novel in the trilogy and so far the more tedious. I read this while traveling through Greece, hoping it would enhance my travel experience… it did not. As I mentioned in my review of “The Song of Sacrifice” there was a lot of breast feeding going on. There’s more in this one. I have nothing against breast feeding but it was annoying knowing that it was coming in every chapter. Weaning from that, it would have earned more stars because the story is good - a much easier read than a required college textbook - but I feel like this should be in a romance category with Fabio on the cover as Achilles plowing his way through women & spoils of war.
June 19, 2019
Powerfully retold with fresh perspective
The best compliments paid to authors comes in the form of a question. When is the next book out? As I needed the end of this book and knowing mythology, I knew there was yet so much to be written and I wanted to know that I could go directly to the next book in the series. To my dismay, I did not see a third book on Amazon, so I went to the author's page to see I had months of waiting. Kudos to Rhiannon for the hours of entertainment she has provided. I anxiously await to read The Rage of Queens.
The best compliments paid to authors comes in the form of a question. When is the next book out? As I needed the end of this book and knowing mythology, I knew there was yet so much to be written and I wanted to know that I could go directly to the next book in the series. To my dismay, I did not see a third book on Amazon, so I went to the author's page to see I had months of waiting. Kudos to Rhiannon for the hours of entertainment she has provided. I anxiously await to read The Rage of Queens.
December 31, 2020
And with that 2020 is done and dusted, not a bad way to end it with this book either.
I believe there were a few less "by the balls of Zeus" compared to book 1 and for that I am grateful.
Looking forward to the finally instalment of this series 🙂
I believe there were a few less "by the balls of Zeus" compared to book 1 and for that I am grateful.
Looking forward to the finally instalment of this series 🙂
August 18, 2021
I have always loved Homer’s Greek stories and Janell Rhiannon has done Homer proud! I haven’t been able to put this book ( and the first ) down, full of blood, guts, machinations, romance… so exciting! I have just downloaded the 3rd in the Homeric Chronicles, can’t wait to read it!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews