Circe

by Madeline Miller
Circe cover
Good Books rating 3.88
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £9.99–£16.99 Hardback • £20.00
Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 2215
  • Added: 2025-10-13
  • Updated: 2025-10-19
  • Formats: 5
  • Reviews: 4
Reviews
Madeleine Reads · 2025-01-08
captivating 4.50

The reviewer loved the premise of Madeline Miller's second novel, which gives voice to a lesser-known female figure from Greek mythology. They found the book engaging and well-crafted.

The reviewer was captivated by the premise of Circe, which brings to life a often overlooked character from Greek mythology. They appreciated how Miller crafted a compelling narrative around Circe, making her a relatable and intriguing protagonist. The reviewer also highlighted the beautiful writing style that enhances the storytelling, making it a delightful read. Overall, they found the book to be a rich and rewarding exploration of a mythological figure.

Quick quotes

    I loved the premise of Madeline Miller's second novel, Circe.

    In this book, Miller gives air time to a lesser-known female figure from Greek mythology.

    The writing is beautiful and the storytelling is compelling.

Berkeley Fiction Review · Lily Kerr · 2021-12-21
brilliant 4.50

The novel highlights Circe's endurance and strength of will, emphasizing her character development. The reviewer praises Miller's ability to bring depth to the character.

The reviewer appreciates how the novel emphasizes Circe's endurance and strength of will, making her a compelling character. They praise Miller's ability to bring depth and complexity to Circe, making the story engaging and thought-provoking. The reviewer finds the character development to be one of the novel's strongest points.

Quick quotes

    It takes more than innate talent; Miller emphasizes Circe's endurance and strength of will above all.

    Miller's prose is beautifully written and very accessible.

    Circe has a depth that outclasses much of what you will find in fantasy today.

Inside My Library Mind · 2020-10-22
mixed 3.00

The novel is well-written and effectively executes its goals, with a fantastic ending. Despite some boredom, the reviewer acknowledges its strengths.

The reviewer found the novel well-written and effective in achieving its objectives. They particularly appreciated the fantastic ending, which made the reading experience worthwhile. Although they felt bored at times, they recognize the book's strengths and overall quality.

Quick quotes

    This is a really well written novel, that does what it sets out to do.

    Plus, it's Greek mythology and it had a fantastic ending, so I cannot complain.

    I was bored, but the book's strengths outweighed my boredom.

The Guardian · 2018-04-08
delightful 3.50

The book is described as a romp and an airy delight, though it may disappoint those expecting a masterpiece. It offers a fresh perspective on a lesser-known figure from Greek mythology.

The reviewer points out that Circe is not a masterpiece but rather a delightful and airy romp. They appreciate the fresh perspective it brings to a lesser-known figure from Greek mythology, making it a unique and enjoyable read. The reviewer also notes that it does not aim to rival the original classics but stands on its own as an engaging story.

Quick quotes

    If you read this book expecting a masterpiece to rival the originals, you'll be disappointed; Circe is, instead, a romp, an airy delight, a ...

    Miller gives air time to a lesser-known female figure from Greek mythology.

    Circe is a strange child--neither powerful like her father nor viciously alluring like her mother.

Appears in Lists