The Philosopher Kings, by Jo Walton

[Andrea]

The Philosopher Kings was my Week #4 challenge book. I discovered Jo Walton in 2015 after chancing upon a copy of The Just City. I had never read such a unique blend of philosophy and mythology before. Her power of creativity compelled me to add the second book of the Thessaly series to my TBR/2016 challenge list.

[Andrea]

This story begins twenty years after the Last Debate. Pytheas, who is Apollo in human form, loses his wife during an art raid. He attempts to save her, but she refuses his help. Pytheas has a difficult time trying to understand Simmea's decision and seeks vengeance.

Rumor has it that Kebes and the Lost City citizens are responsible for the raid. Vowing to find Simmea's murderer, Pytheas takes his young ones and a crew sailing around the Aegean in search of answers.

This tale is less philosophical and more adventuresome than the first book. I must say that the resolution totally blindsided me. For a few seconds, I considered the ending a bit cheesy, but by the time I finished reading the last page, I appreciated it fully.