The Walls of Troy

Sister of Odysseus #2

by Cherry Gregory

It is seven years into the siege at Troy, and Neomene finds herself defending the Greek camp against fever and Trojan attack. Soon she is embroiled in the destiny of Achilles and the fate of Troy itself. In this sequel to The Girl from Ithaca, Neomene, Odysseus's little sister, befriends the women who are forced to survive alongside warriors such as Achilles, Ajax and Agamemnon. As the war drags on and heroes die, she finds romance and faces dangers vastly different from the battles on the Trojan Plain. Readers not familiar with the tales of Troy will find The Walls of Troy a story in its own right and an exciting introduction to Mycenaean culture, the Greek myths and the Trojan War. For those already acquainted with Homer's version, read on to discover the heroes as you've never seen them before.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fiction, Mythology, Historical, Fantasy, Greek Mythology, Ebooks

360 pages, Paperback

First published April 4, 2014

About the author

Cherry Gregory grew up on a farm in Nantwich, Cheshire. She now lives on the Shropshire/ Welsh border with her husband and daughter.
Her hobbies include history, cycling and walking.

Reviews

[Rosalind Minett · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second of a trilogy where the Greek myths are re-imagined through the eyes of a young girl. Staying true to the original Odyssey, the author develops the life of Odysseus' sister, Neomene, only fourteen when the trilogy begins (The Girl from Ithaca). Readers would gain the most enjoyment by reading this book first, set before and during the Trojan war.

In the Walls of Troy, Neomene is now mature, although still in her late teens. Life was dangerous and taxing for even the high born as moral battles were played out. Loss of her beloved Antilochus and dangerous life in the war camps have prepared Neomene to face yet more dramas.
She has to be messenger, nurse, supporter and confidante, all of which she manages with characteristic bravery and sensitivity. She deals with new dangers and challenges.
The pace and excitement of Cherry Gregory’s first book are well matched here. The revisiting of the Greek myths is imaginatively worked. Old scores need to be settled. Years of war, hardship and loss have resulted over possession of one female, Helen. Now the climactic tension between Achilles and Agamemnon, and the effects of this on those surrounding Neomene, and Neomene herself, keep the pages turning.
This book ends with the reader totally involved with Neomene’s survival. As for the fate of those setting out to sea at the end of the Greek alliance, Cassandra’s voice cannot be disregarded. The reader is left temporarily satisfied but eager to have the third book arriving soon.

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked this book and this author. The price was free. It is not often that I get free and good combined. The author's writing mechanics were good. An error two temporarily stopped the reading flow for me. I especially liked the author's descriptions of people, their thought processes, and their resulting actions. Not only did I like it, I thought her work superb in that area. The fictitious character, Neomene, reminded me of the inn keeper's daughter in LES MISERABLES. My mental picture of Neo was that she had a head full of sense, she had a tight and compact body, she was unaware of her beauty, she spent little time primping but was clean, she was brave when the situation called for bravery, she was dependable, she was comfortable with slaves and kings alike, she was diplomatic, and she was such a capable person in all that she did. Because I did not read the first book of the trilogy, I had to do a little research about Homer's mythical epic poetry. Some research indicates that Odysseus, the Trojan horse, and the rescue of Helen are based in truth that occurred several centuries earlier than supposed. The way the different Greek tribes gathered and laid siege on Troy, and then went their separate ways after Helen was rescued are actions I would expect to occur, but the author made it seem special by drawing a mental picture of the ships in the harbor sailing their separate ways. I hope further research will prove Homer's work to be epic and true. Otherwise, I am left straddling the mythological fence.

Thank you, Ms. Gregory, for a good read.

[Rachel Livingstone · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book!

I loved being able to read a story of historical fiction from a woman's point of view. A definite must read.

[Saoirse Sheldon · Rating 2 out of 5]

In book two, The Walls of Troy, we follow Odysseus and his sister Neomene as they battle their way through to the fall of Troy. While I enjoyed the story I found the telling to be a tad slow. I was really hoping we would be further along by the end of this book, instead where are we? The war has at least ended, thank goodness. I assume that we still have to deal with tale of Odysseus’ adventure, which is what I had thought was the entire point of this series. While I was very interested in book one, my interest level dropped way off in book two. I didn’t buy this book, thank whichever Goddess interceded, I borrowed the book instead. If there are any further books in this series, I am unsure whether I will bother at all.

[Sue Moorhouse · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cherry Gregory knows a lot about the legends of Troy. The historical detail is totally convincing but she wears her learning lightly. The story of Neomene, younger sister of Odysseus, continues her embroiled in the death of Achilles and the fall of Troy itself. The action is exciting and the large cast of characters well drawn and totally convincing.
Exciting, convincing and beautifully written.

[Lacey Mennona · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved it

I really enjoyed this book. The characters were well developed and were easy to like or hate. Even though I know the story of the Trojan Horse this was such a great filler for those details that left me wondering. Well written. I will read more of Cherry Gregory. I wish I knew what happened to the characters I love (and hate).

[Laura · Rating 3 out of 5]

This would be a 3.5-star for me, really. I enjoyed reading this continuation of the story of the Trojan War, told from the perspective of Odysseus' younger sister, Neomene. I like how Neomene is an active participant, not just an observer, in the action.

[Destiny · Rating 5 out of 5]

Humans or myths.

I was pleased with the humanity of the myths and the superstars of mythology. It was fun to imagine how day to day went.

[Dorothy Mills · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good ending

The well known story of the Trojan horse is told from a personal point of view. Very readable and complete.

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this insight into the day-to-day events and lifestyle of Odysseus' sister during the Trojan War. I am looking forward to the next installment.

[Maeve Sleibhin · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Walls Of Troy picks up a few years after Cherry Gregory’s The Girl from Ithaca ends and retells the famous stories of the fall of Troy from the refreshing perspective of Odysseus’ sister. There are several things that are remarkable about this book. First, it is well researched, so much so that it could even serve on its own as a convincing new source for reading about these famous stories and characters. Second, it stands well on its own, and Ms Gregory does a remarkable job telling her story within the confines of the well-established mytho-history. Third, and most impressive to me, Gregory tells this bit of woman-focused, revisionist mytho-history without going into the realm of the implausible. I kept expecting Neomene (the heroine-sibling from Ithaca) to be put in a situation which would be eye-rollingly unlikely for a Greek princess in the 12th century BC. However Gregory deftly avoids this temptation, and, although Neomene does find herself in the right place at the right time a fair bit in order to afford her the opportunity to witness all the highlights of the mother of all epic tales, her presence is always appropriate and well explained. The book has a wonderful “History Of Private Life” feel to it. Although intimate details of how the Greeks performed house chores and personal toilette 33 centuries ago is most certainly shamelessly invented by the author (although clearly based on historical research of less ancient periods) is is all very convincing and fascinating to read. Personal interactions, some truly heart-warming, and even romance fit in well with the narrative and make the story strong and fun to read. Although she introduces a litany of new characters in order to support dialogue and sub-plots, Gregory does not shy away from including the Homeric heroes in the interactions. It would have been tempting to present her narrative in the background of great events, having her characters witness history rather than participate. Taking the risk of presenting Agamemnon, Priam, Helen, Achilles, Odysseus and other famous characters in a way that adds to and rarely (if ever) grates with my vision of these famous characters is daring and refreshing. There was only one spot where I found my vision of an interaction at odds with Gregory’s description (I will not identify it for the sake of avoiding spoilers), but even then, her description was more food for thought than abrasive. I highly recommend this book and look forward to reading more from this author.

[Emily · Rating 3 out of 5]

I feel much the same about this second book in the series as I did the first. It covers the last few years of the Trojan War from the perspective of Odysseus’s sister, Neomene. I like that the author didn’t drag out the story; she did a good job of focusing on big events and building the characters around them. She also gets the reader invested in the characters so that they want to know more about them, which is vital for a second book. Additionally, she brought up possibilities about the Trojan War that I hadn’t considered before, like the liberal use of spies and the importance of prophecy in military strategy. Overall, it was an enjoyable book to read.

[Tracey Pople · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fabulous read

Couldn't wait to read this after The Girl from Ithaca and wasn't disappointed.
Knowing Cherry personally her voice narrated the story and it has made me want to read the Iliad again, a book I studied for O level Greek Mythology
Thank you Cherry for reawakening my thirst for this subject, two great books about the Trojan war.

[Laura · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book a lot more than the first. That said, I felt I needed more closure. I don't think there will be another book in the series and I have so many questions. It isn't a cliff hanger kind of book, but more information is needed. Therefore it is getting 3.5 stars from me.

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Walls of Troy follows on from The Girl from Ithaca and continues the story of Neomene, sister of Odysseus, who finds herself playing a crucial role during the final months of the siege of Troy. Once again the story is told by Neomene which draws the reader into the heart of the action. The war has gone on for years and as time passes Neomene has adapted to the hardships of life in camp the details of which are clearly described. She learns new skills in medicine and even archery during this time. Danger however is ever present and she finds herself inside the Walls of Troy in a very perilous situation. As in the first book, this is simply action packed and the superb dialogue moves the plot along and makes us both care about and worry for the characters. Tension is heightened with the prophesies of Cassandra whom no one believes. The story of the wooden horse of Troy is skilfully brought to life by the author Cherry Gregory. The book ends with the siege at and end and Neomene and the remnants of the Greek army heading home across the sea – will they arrive safely? I can’t wait for the next book in this series.

[Paul Burnette · Rating 3 out of 5]

Trickery, a cool head, and courage are required if a young woman and her brother are to conquer Troy and also save the lives of some of the people who will fall to Agamemnon’s armies. Getting captured is not necessarily a bad thing if you can use it to save lives of worthy adversaries. And sailing your army away is not necessarily admitting defeat if you use it to build a false sense of security that lets you get the best of them while they are celebrating their assumed victory. What does author Gregory add to the familiar story of Homer’s Iliad? Besides a few modifications in story sequence (minor, minor!) we have the major change in perspective of the narrator, Odysseus’s sister Neomene, who has been with the Greek army the entire ten years of the siege, has fallen in love (twice), saved her wounded brother, healed Philoctetes, and kept the secrets of the Trojan horse despite being captured by allies of the Trojans. Neomene provides a narrative plot that parallels the story of the battles that occupied most of Homer’s epic, depicting the details of camp life and the interactions of slaves, common soldiers, and the Greek nobles leading the army.

[Merije · Rating 3 out of 5]

While reading this book, I kept thinking to myself: “Wow, this really is quite bad” - yet I kept reading. The writing is not spectacular, but it’s not terrible either. There are whole stretches where nothing much happens, but at times the action does pick up, and so far I’m not bored of the retellings from a female point of view. There were a lot of women present, in the camp and in Troy, and it’s good to think about what their lives must have looked like.
All in all, if you like retellings of the classic Greek stories from different points of view, you might like this. I won’t be rereading it though.

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in a trilogy which follows on from 'The Girl from Ithaca'. In 'The Walls of Troy' we find Neomene still with the Greek camp, laying siege to Troy after Paris's abduction of Helen. The book continues seamlessly from the first, it's beautifully written and the plot brilliantly executed. If you liked 'The Iliad' you'll love Cherry Gregory's telling of the great Greek legends. Her characters enact of their fates with aplomb, against a rich background of Gods, Demi gods, prophesies and intrigue. Hurry up with part three Cherry!

[Sheila Carsins · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a Fascinating Story About the Itacans and Their Rescue of Helen of Troy.

I enjoyed reading about the building of the Trojan horse, and the events that led up to it. It was intriguing to see history from Neomene's point of view, since she was the sister of Odysseus. Tales of Helen of Troy and the Trojan Horse will be around long after we're all gone. It's a bit difficult keeping all of the characters straight, due to the foreign names, but the story was still very good. I hope everyone else that reads this book, enjoys it as much as I did.

[Chris Gregory · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent historical fiction

First of all, let me emphasize that the author is not a relative; however, I did receive this book while it was offered free on Book Bub.

This is a riveting read that will hold your attention throughout. I especially enjoyed this as a sequel to Walls of Ithaca, both well done. It's not often that fictional history is told from the view of a woman, and that is a real plus in this case. Neomene is an identifiable protagonist who will capture your heart and your interest. Highly recommended for those interested in Ancient Greek and Trojan history.

[C. Threadgoode · Rating 5 out of 5]

Action and romance sprinkled in to make a truly delicious story. A wonderful sequel to the first book.....The Girl from Ithaca. The Greek myths and historical details are painted perfectly by this author.... with loads of action and romance sprinkled in then gently woven together like a well written book should be. I turned each page with excitement to know more. I highly recommend this book, (and have) and cant wait for the next one.

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

The continuing story of Neomene, sister of Odysseus. In this book, she comes into her own a bit more than in the first book. My only complaint is I'd like to read about Neomene's version of the odyssey. Perhaps there will be a third book ...?

[Beatriz · Rating 3 out of 5]

Somewhat slow

After reading The Girl from Ithaca, I couldn't wait to get to Book 2. However, it was slow paced and found myself bored. When I finally got to the climax, all I wanted was to get it over.

[Patricia Ruiz Steele · Rating 4 out of 5]

History coming alive

Reading history is usually hard to get through, but Cherry Gregory found a way to bring it alive in the pages of her book. Enjoyed this very much learning about "Helen of Troy" and the "Trojan Horse" through scenes vs history.

[Vince · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good Read

Enjoyed this book with another look at the Trojan War. Seen from a woman's point of view other than Helen this book is a fascinating read.

[Suzanne · Rating 3 out of 5]

Slow and boring. No action, confusing characters, kept hoping it would get better. The author seemed to wrap everything up in the last few pages.

[Carol Wilt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great story

Most enjoyable story. Takes your breath away at times. Interesting how the idea of the 'Trogan Horse' came about. This story is one of those you hate to put down.

[Morgan Wicks]

Bad