The Last Song of Penelope - Claire North

The Last Song of Penelope by Claire North is a masterful, emotionally charged reimagining of the final chapter in Penelope’s life—told from her own fierce, wise and unforgettable voice. As the queen of Ithaca faces the aftermath of Odysseus’s violent return, a new danger rises: a prophecy foretelling the fall of her house, her son’s death and her own fate sealed by ancient powers.

Penelope, long portrayed as patient and passive, emerges here as a brilliant strategist, a woman navigating brutal politics, divine whims and the unstoppable force of destiny. Claire North blends poetic prose, psychological nuance and mythic grandeur to deliver a retelling that is both timeless and strikingly modern.

For readers of Madeline Miller, Jennifer Saint or Natalie Haynes, this novel is a stunning exploration of motherhood, power, loyalty and the cost of survival in a world ruled by gods and men.

Main Themes

• Feminist reimagining of Greek mythology
• Power, sacrifice and political intrigue
• Destiny, prophecy and the will of the gods
• Motherhood, grief and generational legacy
• The hidden strength and intelligence of Penelope

Why you should read this book

• A fresh, empowering perspective on one of mythology’s most overlooked heroines
• Perfect for fans of Circe, Ariadne, and The Silence of the Girls
• Rich, lyrical writing that brings ancient Greece vividly to life
• A gripping blend of myth, suspense and emotional depth
• A standout addition to the fast-growing genre of feminist retellings

The Last Song of Penelope is a breathtaking, transformative retelling that redefines a legendary figure. Claire North delivers a novel of devastating beauty—one that explores the cost of duty, the weight of prophecy and the enduring strength of a woman determined to shape her own destiny. A must-read for lovers of myth, history and powerful feminist storytelling.