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A review by toriliz
The Children of Jocasta by Natalie Haynes
dark
sad
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.5
This book has earned a special spot on my shelf as one of my favorite books. It took a lot of emotional stamina for me to get through, between both Jocasta and Ismene’s awful situations, but it was worth it. I have always felt compassion towards Jocasta; she was a victim of the gods’ awful will. How would you handle finding out your second husband is actually your child, oh and you had kids together, oh and your city is cursed because of your actions? This just added a new layer of my sympathy towards her and toward Ismene, as well. I won’t reread this often but it has definitely earned a special spot on my shelf.
Graphic: Death, Blood, Grief, and Death of parent
Moderate: Confinement, Incest, and Pregnancy
Minor: Sexual assault and Vomit