Genres: Historical Fantasy, Epic Fantasy, Mythology | Release Date: 28 May 2024 | Pages: 336 | Publisher: Random House Australia | Review
“What is remembered lives.”
Kate Forsyth
Overview:
If you love the historical fantasy genre? I’m telling you right now, the incomparable Kate Forsyth’s Psykhe is going to become one of your favourite reads! Because once again, Kate has gifted us a tale rich in magic and mythology, along with one of the most forbidding settings as ancient Rome comes to life within these pages. So let’s give you an overview, shall we?!
Although shunned and revered in equal measure by the populace, Psykhe’s calling to heal has never interfered with the plans of the gods… Until one fateful day, when she defies Venus. Escaping the goddess’ wrath means that Psykhe and her sisters soon find themselves in a new land, beset by new challenges. But falling in love with Ambrose just might be the hardest challenge of all, as Psykhe’s forbidden to see his face. And when she does? The only way to save him is to travel to the Underworld, to plead with the queen of the dead, Proserpina. Can Psykhe defy the gods and save her beloved? What will she have to give up in payment? And once amongst the dead, is it even possible for Psykhe to return to the land of the living?
The night dragon by Dirty Paws Australia was just as thrilled as yours truly!
Happiness Boost:
Psykhe is such a glorious, devastating tale of human courage in the face of the capricious gods. Honestly, the vibrant mythology in this historical fantasy has been written in such a way that will persuade any reader that the Roman gods are truly amongst us! And at a time when women’s voices were rarely given any power, Psykhe’s position as a midwife and healer is enough to set her apart from the masses. But when you combine that with her femininity and desire for love? Kate’s once again highlighted just why she’s one of the best authors when it comes to writing heroines!
Shall we talk about the emotions Kate can wring out of our hearts? Seriously, glitterbugs… There is no author who gives me so much comfort, even as we venture into the darkest of paths within these pages. Words are beyond me, to describe how much I love Kate’s ability to wring every emotion from me. It’s a privilege to read these stories.
Everything Kate does is superb, but one of the things I’ve most come to appreciate? Is how her stories embrace the uncertainty, heartache and abiding love we experience when it comes to loss. Upon reading ‘Sorrow is a sickness with no easy cure’, it honestly felt like a butterfly landed on my soul. Kate writes with the gentlest of touches, as deftly as an expert seamstress who leaves only the tiniest of stitches. Psykhe is a masterpiece in exploring the theme of grief, and by the time I came to the end? Tears were flowing, but my heart was comforted. That’s a powerful gift.
Downside:
If you’ve read a Kate Forsyth tale, you know there is no downside! It’s just impossible to have one.
Final Thoughts:
Psykhe by Kate Forsyth is an epic historical fantasy, brimming with magic, mercurial gods and a terrifying venture into the Underworld. And I know it might sound odd, but to be honest? We are so, so lucky to be living in the same era as Kate, because her writing is both riveting and flawless. I have so much praise for this beautiful book, but refuse to give away spoilers… So if you love the sound of this gorgeous book from my review? Just click on any of the links below to grab a copy! Happy reading, glitterbugs!
You can order Psykhe via these links:
