Edward S. Louis, Odysseus on the Rhine

Edward S. Louis

Odysseus on the Rhine

ISBN: 1594142815

Five Star, Apr 2005, $25.95, 235 pp.

After fighting in the Trojan war and struggling against deities, monsters and other oddities, Odysseus has finally returned home. He and his faithful wife Penelope celebrate the wedding of their oldest son, but it is a bittersweet reunion because they both know she is dying. After Penelope dies, Odysseus feels restless and wants to go on an adventure; the gods heed his call and send him a vision of a blonde-haired woman in the Northlands.

Several defeated Trojans have also made their way to the Northlands and defeated the local tribes. The Trojans have created a new empire that is expanding. Odysseus and several Trojan War vets, their sons and even Achilles' grandson head north to stop the Trojans. On the sea voyage, they fight hostile enemies, make peace with Poseidon, and listen to Athena as they help the tribes with their advanced technology. Ultimately Odysseus must find the blonde female who will teach him there is more to life than battle and killing.

Displaying guts, chutzpah, or lunacy, Edward S. Louis creates the further adventures of Odysseus following up on his Homeric role with the thousand ships, the burning of the towers, and the "gift" horse. Homer would agree that Mr. Louis stayed true with his original persona of the legendary Greek hero. The further adventures are exciting and well-written as Odysseus turns from restless warrior to contented royal advisor.

Harriet Klausner