I have always loved transformational stories. Beauty and the Beast has long been a favourite fairy tale (The Little Mermaid being another). Sometime back in the 80s, someone mentioned to me that I should read the myth of Cupid and Psyche, as it had some similarities to BatB. I read a few retellings for children, along with C.S. Lewis’s novel Til We Have Faces. What I liked about the myth was that the transformation was wrapped up in Psyche’s perceptions of her god-husband. Was he or was he not a monster? Trying to answer that question transformed their relationship, and Psyche’s destiny.
I’ve not revisited the story in decades. When I saw the cover of Psyche and Eros1 by Luna McNamara, I knew I wanted to read it, and knew I would like it. The publisher was generous enough approve my DRC request a couple weeks before publication.
Despite my predisposition toward the book, I was still surprised and delighted in the changes McNamara made to the story. I remember Psyche being a very passive part of her own story in those old myth retellings, but in McNamara’s hands, she is forthright and courageous, ready to speak her mind and defend her friends (even when those friends include a Titan getting his liver peeked out daily by an eagle).
Already out in the UK and releasing today in North America, this is a highly recommended read for those who (like me) are enjoying this new trend of myth retellings.
Book links lead to the online shop for Owl’s Nest Books in Calgary. Please consider buying these titles from an independent bookstore near you.