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The Palace of Eros
Young, headstrong Psyche has captured the eyes of every suitor in town and far beyond with her tempestuous beauty, which has made her irresistible as a woman yet undesirable as a wife. Secretly, she longs for a life away from the expectations and demands of men. When her father realizes that the future of his family and town will be forever cursed unless he appeases an enraged Aphrodite, he follows the orders of the Oracle, tying Psyche to a rock to be ravaged by a monstrous husband. And yet a monster never arrives.
When Eros, nonbinary deity of desire, sees Psyche, she cannot fulfill her promise to her mother Aphrodite to destroy the mortal young woman. Instead, Eros devises a plan to sweep Psyche away to an idyllic palace, hidden from the prying eyes of Aphrodite, Zeus, and the outside world. There, against the dire dictates of Olympus, Eros and Psyche fall in love. Each night, Eros visits Psyche under the cover of impenetrable darkness, where they both experience untold passion and love. But each morning, Eros flies away before light comes to break the spell of the palace that keeps them safe.
Before long, Psyche’s nights spent in pleasure turn to days filled with doubts, as she grapples with the cost of secrecy and the complexities of freedom and desire. Restless and spurred by her sisters to reveal Eros’s true nature, she breaks her trust and forces a reckoning that tests them both—and transforms the very heavens.
Told in bold and sparkling prose, The Palace of Eros transports us to a magical world imbued by divine forces as well as everyday realities, where palaces glitter with magic even as ordinary people fight for freedom in a society that fears the unknown.
When Eros, nonbinary deity of desire, sees Psyche, she cannot fulfill her promise to her mother Aphrodite to destroy the mortal young woman. Instead, Eros devises a plan to sweep Psyche away to an idyllic palace, hidden from the prying eyes of Aphrodite, Zeus, and the outside world. There, against the dire dictates of Olympus, Eros and Psyche fall in love. Each night, Eros visits Psyche under the cover of impenetrable darkness, where they both experience untold passion and love. But each morning, Eros flies away before light comes to break the spell of the palace that keeps them safe.
Before long, Psyche’s nights spent in pleasure turn to days filled with doubts, as she grapples with the cost of secrecy and the complexities of freedom and desire. Restless and spurred by her sisters to reveal Eros’s true nature, she breaks her trust and forces a reckoning that tests them both—and transforms the very heavens.
Told in bold and sparkling prose, The Palace of Eros transports us to a magical world imbued by divine forces as well as everyday realities, where palaces glitter with magic even as ordinary people fight for freedom in a society that fears the unknown.
305 pages, Paperback
First published August 13, 2024
285 people are currently reading
16376 people want to read
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May 17, 2024
Believe me when I say I so wish I could have liked this more. When I was approved for an e-arc that I requested based on the very basic premise of this novel being a queer sapphic retelling of a Greek myth, I was HOOKED, but this was such a disappointment that I’m having trouble finding anything positive to say about it apart from the fact that it exists.
I’m not the biggest Greek Mythology fan out there, I didn’t know the original myth before diving into this novel, but I do know that I will always be here for a queer retelling of ANYTHING. As a queer reader myself, keeping a balance between “I’m just glad this queer story exists no matter how good or bad” and “telling queer stories isn’t an end in itself, they need to accomplish something” isn’t easy. This novel will, for some people, undoubtedly be exactly what they needed and have always looked for, and that’s great, but I wish it had at least been GOOD.
I know taste and enjoyment are subjective, but I buddy-read this with a friend of mine and we were both in agreement that this book is severely lacking in almost every major department, including writing (style), plot, and dialogue.
PSA: I received a digital reader advanced copy of this novel and can’t say what changes this will go through before being published. However, while it’s very likely that small details will change, I don’t think the writing style will.
If there is one thing I will forever do it’s comparing every Greek Mythology retelling to The Song of Achilles. It’s unfair, it’s biased, but I can’t help it. Madeline Miller set a gold standard that many writers will struggle to achieve. However, when comparing De Robertis’s writing to Miller’s, it falls flat on its nose. Where Miller’s prose is just the right shade short of purple, De Robertis’s takes elaborate and flowery to a whole new level. Similes follow metaphors follow too luscious imagery follows hyperboles on every page, constantly, so that the plot itself, the words’ meaning is completely lost, and needs to be uncovered before one can even attempt to understand it.
There are nuggets of gold to be found, for sure:
“All of time collapses in the immediacy of desire.”
“Those of us who’ve been broken have more shards inside us than we know – and who among us has not been broken, as women in this world?”
Beautiful quotes, no notes!! 💕💘❤️
Other quotes, however, looked like this:
That’s so many words to say nothing. 😩
no, you didn’t misread, that’s one sentence. ONE effing SENTENCE. And this is not an anomaly. There are several paragraphs in this book consisting of a single sentence covering a good ten or more lines.
The writing was already hard to digest with how densely flowery it was, but this took the cake.
I find that in general, it seemed like the author really enjoyed the sound or flow of their own writing, which I’m usually fine with as long as their words are saying something!!
Like god, I wish I could find something inspirational or true in-between those words, but every time I tried, I got the biggest headaches, I simply stopped trying after a while and was just reading the words, not willing to try to comprehend them.
Aside from the writing, I couldn’t get behind the author’s decision to write Eros’s POV in the third person but Psyche’s POV in the first person. Since Psyche isn’t the most interesting character ever conceived, spending a lot of time immersed in her inner thoughts and feelings became tedious.
Eros, as the non-binary goddess going by she/her pronouns, would have been interesting to explore in 1st-person POV, not only because she is an outsider in the pantheon of gods and goddesses, but also because some of her actions (like not divulging her true identity to Psyche, taking her against her will, keeping her imprisoned in her dream castle etc.) definitely paint her as more of a morally grey than a 100% good person.
Given how even the original myth lacks plot and excitement for the entire time in-between Psyche’s arrival at Eros’s dream castle and Psyche’s leaving the dream castle, you would need to be a darn good writer to not let that part of the story become boring pretty quickly. This is when to use beautiful and flowery writing to fill the space and support a basically non-existent plot.
De Robertis does this well in writing about Psyche’s musings about art and poetry, the beauty of nature, about lust and affection, but even though Eros’s and Psyche’s shared nights are filled with heavy longing and desire that are passionately explored and beautifully expressed, that part of the novel did drag immensely. Psyche spends every day painting and weaving– occasionally superseded by minutes or hours of masturbating – and every night Eros and Psyche make love.
Not only could this segment of the novel have been tightened immensely, but it was also filled with non-sensical dialogue that, to me, didn’t come across as authentic in how two people would converse with each other:
I just- OUFF. 🥲
Me when I have to hit my word count for this review. ✍️
Me when I have to hit my word count for this review. ✍️
While the story itself is ultimately queer- and non-binary affirming, uplifting, and while it deserves special attention for being a Latin-American own-voices narrative that poses interesting questions about the assumed heteronormativity of Greek myths, the novel comes with a lot of flaws that hindered my enjoyment of it severely.
As always, thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for granting me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I’m not the biggest Greek Mythology fan out there, I didn’t know the original myth before diving into this novel, but I do know that I will always be here for a queer retelling of ANYTHING. As a queer reader myself, keeping a balance between “I’m just glad this queer story exists no matter how good or bad” and “telling queer stories isn’t an end in itself, they need to accomplish something” isn’t easy. This novel will, for some people, undoubtedly be exactly what they needed and have always looked for, and that’s great, but I wish it had at least been GOOD.
I know taste and enjoyment are subjective, but I buddy-read this with a friend of mine and we were both in agreement that this book is severely lacking in almost every major department, including writing (style), plot, and dialogue.
PSA: I received a digital reader advanced copy of this novel and can’t say what changes this will go through before being published. However, while it’s very likely that small details will change, I don’t think the writing style will.
If there is one thing I will forever do it’s comparing every Greek Mythology retelling to The Song of Achilles. It’s unfair, it’s biased, but I can’t help it. Madeline Miller set a gold standard that many writers will struggle to achieve. However, when comparing De Robertis’s writing to Miller’s, it falls flat on its nose. Where Miller’s prose is just the right shade short of purple, De Robertis’s takes elaborate and flowery to a whole new level. Similes follow metaphors follow too luscious imagery follows hyperboles on every page, constantly, so that the plot itself, the words’ meaning is completely lost, and needs to be uncovered before one can even attempt to understand it.
There are nuggets of gold to be found, for sure:
“All of time collapses in the immediacy of desire.”
“Those of us who’ve been broken have more shards inside us than we know – and who among us has not been broken, as women in this world?”
Beautiful quotes, no notes!! 💕💘❤️
Other quotes, however, looked like this:
“A chance at everything, I thought, to hear only what’s inside me shouting true, I want to let the rest of the world’s noise dissolve, even if only for one night, I don’t know what I am or who I am but tonight, right now, I know what I want, and so what if the laws of gods and men would slay me for it, who cares, they already tried to slay me and here I am.”
That’s so many words to say nothing. 😩
“She came here on some winged creature through the night sky, she is a woman free to roam the sky, a woman with a palace, a woman whose days are hidden from you, a woman who can do outrageous things to another woman’s body, a woman whose power is mountainous, whose strength is vast, whose charm is boundless, you’d never imagined such a woman could be, yet here she is, and far be it from you to anger her when she’s already given you so much, how could you ask for more, when she has chosen you for this adventure for some inscrutable reason you’ll never understand, just as it’s impossible to understand how this adventure can exist or what the scope of it will be, but there it is, the need to clasp it close and not let go because you want this life she’s offered you, want it with every fiber of your being, yet also want to hold on to your own knowing, however tiny it may be compared to hers.”
no, you didn’t misread, that’s one sentence. ONE effing SENTENCE. And this is not an anomaly. There are several paragraphs in this book consisting of a single sentence covering a good ten or more lines.
The writing was already hard to digest with how densely flowery it was, but this took the cake.
I find that in general, it seemed like the author really enjoyed the sound or flow of their own writing, which I’m usually fine with as long as their words are saying something!!
“I longed for so much that I almost longed for everything, which is a feeling so vast it curves in on itself, toward the start of the circle, where everything becomes nothing, and the longing for everything blurs into longing for nothing, a subsuming in the longing itself, pure, raw, swallowing you whole.”
Like god, I wish I could find something inspirational or true in-between those words, but every time I tried, I got the biggest headaches, I simply stopped trying after a while and was just reading the words, not willing to try to comprehend them.
Aside from the writing, I couldn’t get behind the author’s decision to write Eros’s POV in the third person but Psyche’s POV in the first person. Since Psyche isn’t the most interesting character ever conceived, spending a lot of time immersed in her inner thoughts and feelings became tedious.
Eros, as the non-binary goddess going by she/her pronouns, would have been interesting to explore in 1st-person POV, not only because she is an outsider in the pantheon of gods and goddesses, but also because some of her actions (like not divulging her true identity to Psyche, taking her against her will, keeping her imprisoned in her dream castle etc.) definitely paint her as more of a morally grey than a 100% good person.
Given how even the original myth lacks plot and excitement for the entire time in-between Psyche’s arrival at Eros’s dream castle and Psyche’s leaving the dream castle, you would need to be a darn good writer to not let that part of the story become boring pretty quickly. This is when to use beautiful and flowery writing to fill the space and support a basically non-existent plot.
De Robertis does this well in writing about Psyche’s musings about art and poetry, the beauty of nature, about lust and affection, but even though Eros’s and Psyche’s shared nights are filled with heavy longing and desire that are passionately explored and beautifully expressed, that part of the novel did drag immensely. Psyche spends every day painting and weaving– occasionally superseded by minutes or hours of masturbating – and every night Eros and Psyche make love.
Not only could this segment of the novel have been tightened immensely, but it was also filled with non-sensical dialogue that, to me, didn’t come across as authentic in how two people would converse with each other:
“But there is room for them.
It’s not for them.
It’s all for me?
Yes.
So, then – what you’re saying is, this is my home?
Of course it’s your home.
And what I want matters? You don’t own me?
You already know-
You said it before. But what about now?
How can you say such a thing?
Why won’t you answer?”
I just- OUFF. 🥲
“How will I live through this? How does any creature live? What is alive keeps going. Keeps listening. Watching. Taking the next breath and the next.”
Me when I have to hit my word count for this review. ✍️
“Could this moment be real? What is real? What is the world?”
Me when I have to hit my word count for this review. ✍️
While the story itself is ultimately queer- and non-binary affirming, uplifting, and while it deserves special attention for being a Latin-American own-voices narrative that poses interesting questions about the assumed heteronormativity of Greek myths, the novel comes with a lot of flaws that hindered my enjoyment of it severely.
As always, thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for granting me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Want to read
April 3, 2024i was told eros is a lesbian with weird gender stuff going on and that's all it takes to sell me on smthn
May 30, 2024
At least 50 pages need to be removed and the fig tree must be burned
August 22, 2024
This author cannot write a bad sentence, not even a mediocre one. The book is entrancing from the start. I never liked mythology so I had almost zero knowledge about the original tale prior to reading Palace of Eros. Instead, I read it simply as a story told by one of my favorite authors.
Psyche is a stunningly beautiful woman who draws male suitors from far and wide, many calling her even more wondrous than Aphrodite. The goddess is of course insulted and sends her daughter, Eros, to take revenge against the mortal woman. Eros is to shoot her arrow and send Psyche into the arms of the most evil and ugly man that can be found. But as soon as Eros sees Psyche, Eros spirals headlong into love and defies the world to make Psyche hers.
The first half of the book is a golden-tongued love story. I enjoyed the alternate pov’s between the two main characters, watched their no holds barred passion and lust build into a sexual fervor that also held a sweet tenderness. I want to add that Eros here is both a woman and a man. It’s such an important point because Eros fights to be in control of her own body and spirit, at times, violently at odds with the gods because of being both. As the story moves on, a struggle emerges, not only between the two lovers and the gods and goddesses on Olympia, but most importantly, Psyche battles to claim her own life and destiny. To not be beholden to the might of the powerful. To not have to answer to men. I’m sure the story is meant to reflect the strength and vulnerability of women during these times, the fight of individuals to own their identities, and the passages stay true to those themes. But throughout the story, I remained invested in seeing what happened to Psyche and Eros as well. I have no clue if this book stays true to the original myth but once again, this author has written a thoughtful and engaging story.
“I was sunlight, in the presence of her hand. I had not known, before, that this was possible, that a body could be transmuted into light by another person’s touch.”
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Psyche is a stunningly beautiful woman who draws male suitors from far and wide, many calling her even more wondrous than Aphrodite. The goddess is of course insulted and sends her daughter, Eros, to take revenge against the mortal woman. Eros is to shoot her arrow and send Psyche into the arms of the most evil and ugly man that can be found. But as soon as Eros sees Psyche, Eros spirals headlong into love and defies the world to make Psyche hers.
The first half of the book is a golden-tongued love story. I enjoyed the alternate pov’s between the two main characters, watched their no holds barred passion and lust build into a sexual fervor that also held a sweet tenderness. I want to add that Eros here is both a woman and a man. It’s such an important point because Eros fights to be in control of her own body and spirit, at times, violently at odds with the gods because of being both. As the story moves on, a struggle emerges, not only between the two lovers and the gods and goddesses on Olympia, but most importantly, Psyche battles to claim her own life and destiny. To not be beholden to the might of the powerful. To not have to answer to men. I’m sure the story is meant to reflect the strength and vulnerability of women during these times, the fight of individuals to own their identities, and the passages stay true to those themes. But throughout the story, I remained invested in seeing what happened to Psyche and Eros as well. I have no clue if this book stays true to the original myth but once again, this author has written a thoughtful and engaging story.
“I was sunlight, in the presence of her hand. I had not known, before, that this was possible, that a body could be transmuted into light by another person’s touch.”
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 1, 2024
Thanks to NetGalley and Atria Books for access to this title. All opinions expressed are my own.
A queer retelling of the Eros and Psyche Greek myth. I liked the storyline but must admit that the Psyche chapters and p.o.v were more detailed, so I felt more swayed by her story. Although the Aphrodite and Eros relationship made for some good family drama. I read somewhere that Eros and Psyche have long been considered one of the most beautiful love stories and Caro de Robertis kept that vibe with their slant on the story.
Publication Date 13/08/24
Goodreads Review 31/08/24
A queer retelling of the Eros and Psyche Greek myth. I liked the storyline but must admit that the Psyche chapters and p.o.v were more detailed, so I felt more swayed by her story. Although the Aphrodite and Eros relationship made for some good family drama. I read somewhere that Eros and Psyche have long been considered one of the most beautiful love stories and Caro de Robertis kept that vibe with their slant on the story.
Publication Date 13/08/24
Goodreads Review 31/08/24
April 13, 2024
holy shit. what a beautiful and transcendent reading experience. De Robertis has the skill and competence to capture the essence of the myth and make it narratively stunning with compelling characters and an incredible atmosphere. their writing is simply gorgeous and i will go through each point while trying not to spoil this so bear with me on this one!
first of all, i do not just drop the word "beautiful" without conscious thought and intention. i mean it wholeheartedly: this novel is beautiful. i wanted to sob several times, but i noticed that this overwhelming feeling came over me when tender and innocent thoughts are put into words so precisely and whenever there is a deep yearning for a better world for women. everything was so richly imagined; so vivid were the fields, rivers, and ocean and the characters were so authentically represented, from the sisters to the goddesses. the writing played a huge role in all this, of course, and i found the lyrical prose so emotive and graceful. the sweet innocence of Psyche and her child-like wonder and glee upon glorious freedom within the palace of Eros, her journey to self-discovery and finding agency in her own life, and her fulfilment of identity and her solid certainty by the end of it were captured in its full beauty and marvel. it brought out feelings of wonder in myself, about how much words can have an impact on how i see the world and myself, but most especially— it made me realize how utterly beautiful it is to be able to live in this world and experience life as it is. for instance, it made me appreciate the ocean and the beauty of its primordial being. its sounds and waves and its vast, ancient body brought about so much appreciation for my existence at this point in time, when i can recognize its immeasurable being and my privilege of being myself. now, if you know me, i was very suicidal, so this acknowledgment from me is a pretty big deal. my point is that: this novel has imparted in me a deep and beautiful message that had made my reading experience transcendent (there really is no other word for it)!
bouncing off from that statement, i would like to emphasize that the writing is genuinely so exquisite. this is divine prose. De Robertis has the skill to look into the minds of Psyche and Eros, and the ability to write them so realistically. it requires great effort, not to mention competence and finesse, to execute such a narrative so satisfyingly. the author was able to give so much dimension to Psyche as a woman and as a human person and also offer a different perspective to the myth. the characterization of other deities must have also been fun to imagine, as the writing has shown. so i must give praise to the artistry and sophistication that the author has showcased, as i do not think i have ever read a combination of words as unique and clever before this. i have read many novels with similarly gorgeous prose, but none so like De Robertis', which is distinctive in their efficiency and brevity. i really enjoyed reading the words and knowing how much intention was put into each word choice, with as much nuance as the English language can give anyway. i was enthralled.
moving onwards to the themes of the novel, i thought the discussions were well done. i don't know how else to describe it but the integration of all these themes were incorporated into the narrative seamlessly. i understand the separation of the phallus to the male identity and i really appreciated how Eros was depicted as trans, which came as a delight to me. because how often do we encounter feminist stories that are trans inclusive? i was elated to come across such a story because i would not have given this a chance if it were the typical mundane Greek retelling. there are only some details about Eros' story that did not sit well with me. i do understand that Greek retellings are uncomfortable given its incestuous and male-centered foundations, but i felt that some were not necessary nor vital to the narrative being shaped here. i also understand that Eros needed a greater reason than her mother's rage to be doing all this, so i am still considering my rating; otherwise, the novel is really perfect. i do not think this is anything major to deter you from reading though. i especially liked Psyche's detailed experiences of freedom and it never came across as tedious or repetitive to me. her acknowledgment of her desire and her discovering her identity were endearing to me, as a repressed girlie myself. i enjoyed reading every little realization she has about anything and every little discovery she comes to terms with, even as she paints and weaves and lusts— to experience all this through Psyche moved me. again, the writing is so full of emotion. one cannot help but feel a tenderness towards Psyche, her innocence and fact of being will endear anyone.
finally, have i said that the prose is gorgeous? no? okay, i will say it again: the prose is gorgeous. beautiful. stunning. DIVINE. it was the foundation of the dreamy atmosphere and i cannot seem to stress it enough how insanely well-written this is, in all aspects (except one). please read this when it comes out, you will not regret the time spent on this masterpiece!
first of all, i do not just drop the word "beautiful" without conscious thought and intention. i mean it wholeheartedly: this novel is beautiful. i wanted to sob several times, but i noticed that this overwhelming feeling came over me when tender and innocent thoughts are put into words so precisely and whenever there is a deep yearning for a better world for women. everything was so richly imagined; so vivid were the fields, rivers, and ocean and the characters were so authentically represented, from the sisters to the goddesses. the writing played a huge role in all this, of course, and i found the lyrical prose so emotive and graceful. the sweet innocence of Psyche and her child-like wonder and glee upon glorious freedom within the palace of Eros, her journey to self-discovery and finding agency in her own life, and her fulfilment of identity and her solid certainty by the end of it were captured in its full beauty and marvel. it brought out feelings of wonder in myself, about how much words can have an impact on how i see the world and myself, but most especially— it made me realize how utterly beautiful it is to be able to live in this world and experience life as it is. for instance, it made me appreciate the ocean and the beauty of its primordial being. its sounds and waves and its vast, ancient body brought about so much appreciation for my existence at this point in time, when i can recognize its immeasurable being and my privilege of being myself. now, if you know me, i was very suicidal, so this acknowledgment from me is a pretty big deal. my point is that: this novel has imparted in me a deep and beautiful message that had made my reading experience transcendent (there really is no other word for it)!
bouncing off from that statement, i would like to emphasize that the writing is genuinely so exquisite. this is divine prose. De Robertis has the skill to look into the minds of Psyche and Eros, and the ability to write them so realistically. it requires great effort, not to mention competence and finesse, to execute such a narrative so satisfyingly. the author was able to give so much dimension to Psyche as a woman and as a human person and also offer a different perspective to the myth. the characterization of other deities must have also been fun to imagine, as the writing has shown. so i must give praise to the artistry and sophistication that the author has showcased, as i do not think i have ever read a combination of words as unique and clever before this. i have read many novels with similarly gorgeous prose, but none so like De Robertis', which is distinctive in their efficiency and brevity. i really enjoyed reading the words and knowing how much intention was put into each word choice, with as much nuance as the English language can give anyway. i was enthralled.
moving onwards to the themes of the novel, i thought the discussions were well done. i don't know how else to describe it but the integration of all these themes were incorporated into the narrative seamlessly. i understand the separation of the phallus to the male identity and i really appreciated how Eros was depicted as trans, which came as a delight to me. because how often do we encounter feminist stories that are trans inclusive? i was elated to come across such a story because i would not have given this a chance if it were the typical mundane Greek retelling. there are only some details about Eros' story that did not sit well with me. i do understand that Greek retellings are uncomfortable given its incestuous and male-centered foundations, but i felt that some were not necessary nor vital to the narrative being shaped here. i also understand that Eros needed a greater reason than her mother's rage to be doing all this, so i am still considering my rating; otherwise, the novel is really perfect. i do not think this is anything major to deter you from reading though. i especially liked Psyche's detailed experiences of freedom and it never came across as tedious or repetitive to me. her acknowledgment of her desire and her discovering her identity were endearing to me, as a repressed girlie myself. i enjoyed reading every little realization she has about anything and every little discovery she comes to terms with, even as she paints and weaves and lusts— to experience all this through Psyche moved me. again, the writing is so full of emotion. one cannot help but feel a tenderness towards Psyche, her innocence and fact of being will endear anyone.
finally, have i said that the prose is gorgeous? no? okay, i will say it again: the prose is gorgeous. beautiful. stunning. DIVINE. it was the foundation of the dreamy atmosphere and i cannot seem to stress it enough how insanely well-written this is, in all aspects (except one). please read this when it comes out, you will not regret the time spent on this masterpiece!
December 19, 2024
5/5⭐️ 3.5/5🌶️
Happy Pub Day to Caro De Robertis!
Greek mythology but make it feminist and queer? Yes, please. I had very high hopes for this book and it did not disappoint. I absolutely ADORED this book. I could not put it down.
From the start, the Audre Lorde right off the jump! And the dedication "For queer folks, all of us, far and wide and throughout time." Love, love, love.
This book was way more erotic than I was expecting, but in the best way. The sex scenes were beautifully written, displaying raw passion and vulnerability between Eros and Psyche. Though there were moments that the sex nearly overshadowed the actual relationship building between the two.
De Robertis goes beyond purple prose, perhaps more accurately described as deep violet prose, and was perfect in the exploration of the relationship dynamics. I enjoyed the rich, floral language used in this novel, but it may not be for every reader. De Robertis' prose showcased the passion and love between Eros and Psyche and the deep sense of grief/loss/betrayal in such a beautiful way that I feel any less would have been a disservice to the authentic voice of the author.
I enjoyed how effortlessly De Robertis blended other Greek mythology into this storyline. It was fun to find the breadcrumbs of some of my other favorite lore through the lense of this plotline. I, also, found that Eros reclaiming the retelling as their own and discrediting the lore of the bards to be a fantastic transition into the plotline.
The exploration of gender fluidity, freedom, gender roles, marriage, and what defines 'monstrous' were some of my favorite themes in this subversive, feminist sapphic depiction of Eros and Psyche's love story. The concept of the transformative nature of love and desire and how even the Goddess of desire is not immune was breathtakingly beautiful. The themes surrounding marriage as an institution and gender norms were pervasive throughout the text, "To stop dreaming of flight" was spirit crushing.
The novel was fairly straightforward in the plot line with little variation from Greek mythology, save for the wlw/nonbinary aspects introduced in the novel. The Gods are still fickle, petty, spiteful, and vengeful. As are Psyche's crusty ass sisters, the gaslighting/manipulation was infuriating to read, which read true to the ancient Greek lore overall.
Expected Publish Date: August 13, 2024
A big thank you to Atria Books and NetGalley for this eARC in exchange for my honest review. Reviews posted on NetGalley and Goodreads.
Happy Pub Day to Caro De Robertis!
Greek mythology but make it feminist and queer? Yes, please. I had very high hopes for this book and it did not disappoint. I absolutely ADORED this book. I could not put it down.
From the start, the Audre Lorde right off the jump! And the dedication "For queer folks, all of us, far and wide and throughout time." Love, love, love.
This book was way more erotic than I was expecting, but in the best way. The sex scenes were beautifully written, displaying raw passion and vulnerability between Eros and Psyche. Though there were moments that the sex nearly overshadowed the actual relationship building between the two.
De Robertis goes beyond purple prose, perhaps more accurately described as deep violet prose, and was perfect in the exploration of the relationship dynamics. I enjoyed the rich, floral language used in this novel, but it may not be for every reader. De Robertis' prose showcased the passion and love between Eros and Psyche and the deep sense of grief/loss/betrayal in such a beautiful way that I feel any less would have been a disservice to the authentic voice of the author.
I enjoyed how effortlessly De Robertis blended other Greek mythology into this storyline. It was fun to find the breadcrumbs of some of my other favorite lore through the lense of this plotline. I, also, found that Eros reclaiming the retelling as their own and discrediting the lore of the bards to be a fantastic transition into the plotline.
The exploration of gender fluidity, freedom, gender roles, marriage, and what defines 'monstrous' were some of my favorite themes in this subversive, feminist sapphic depiction of Eros and Psyche's love story. The concept of the transformative nature of love and desire and how even the Goddess of desire is not immune was breathtakingly beautiful. The themes surrounding marriage as an institution and gender norms were pervasive throughout the text, "To stop dreaming of flight" was spirit crushing.
The novel was fairly straightforward in the plot line with little variation from Greek mythology, save for the wlw/nonbinary aspects introduced in the novel. The Gods are still fickle, petty, spiteful, and vengeful. As are Psyche's crusty ass sisters, the gaslighting/manipulation was infuriating to read, which read true to the ancient Greek lore overall.
Expected Publish Date: August 13, 2024
A big thank you to Atria Books and NetGalley for this eARC in exchange for my honest review. Reviews posted on NetGalley and Goodreads.
October 2, 2024
i’m just really happy this is over.
• the story of psyche & eros, but eros is a gender fluid goddess, so make it sapphic
• this book had so much potential with its plot, but ultimately lost me very quickly
• minimal character development
• overly dense, purple, flowery prose that didn’t even say anything? like there is basically zero plot, and none of psyche’s internal monologue does anything for the plot or her characterization
• the story of psyche & eros, but eros is a gender fluid goddess, so make it sapphic
• this book had so much potential with its plot, but ultimately lost me very quickly
• minimal character development
• overly dense, purple, flowery prose that didn’t even say anything? like there is basically zero plot, and none of psyche’s internal monologue does anything for the plot or her characterization
Read
December 23, 2024THIS. COVER.
September 15, 2024
If you love Greek Mythology and as I, you fell in love with the story of Eros and Psyche, you need to read Caro De Robertis latest masterpiece.
What is to be a woman, a man or none of them, to be fluid, to be just yourself?
What does freedom mean in the pursuit of knowledge, of wanting to know more, and of striving to find a place you can call "your home"?
The Palace of Eros is an exquisite retelling of a story that became legend, a story that many artists like Canova made immortal with their works, and now that story is revisited to embrace a kind of love that should never be hidden. No more cages.
Love and Soul. Desire and Mind.
The strength of two characters that impersonate so much more than they used to in the past.
I have so many quotes I saved and I can't wait to read what Caro De Robertis will write next. I had loved Cantoras and I fell in love with Eros and Psyche again.
It's so accepting of all forms love and bodies can be.
Words become weapons and have power. Creating new words to define who we are to have a language that is able to accept all of us and not just some. The power of saying "I want more", "I deserve more", "I have the right to exist as much as you", so let me, because I won't stop fighting for that.
The desire to know a name, a face, the audacity "to know everything" breaks the spell of a life lived hiding from the light.
And reaching again the light as never been so rewarding.
Psyche is all of us.
What is to be a woman, a man or none of them, to be fluid, to be just yourself?
What does freedom mean in the pursuit of knowledge, of wanting to know more, and of striving to find a place you can call "your home"?
The Palace of Eros is an exquisite retelling of a story that became legend, a story that many artists like Canova made immortal with their works, and now that story is revisited to embrace a kind of love that should never be hidden. No more cages.
Love and Soul. Desire and Mind.
The strength of two characters that impersonate so much more than they used to in the past.
I have so many quotes I saved and I can't wait to read what Caro De Robertis will write next. I had loved Cantoras and I fell in love with Eros and Psyche again.
It's so accepting of all forms love and bodies can be.
Words become weapons and have power. Creating new words to define who we are to have a language that is able to accept all of us and not just some. The power of saying "I want more", "I deserve more", "I have the right to exist as much as you", so let me, because I won't stop fighting for that.
The desire to know a name, a face, the audacity "to know everything" breaks the spell of a life lived hiding from the light.
And reaching again the light as never been so rewarding.
Psyche is all of us.
August 11, 2024
My adjectives for the prose: purple, dense, florid, bloated. It sounds like I’m describing a corpse. 👀 DNF @ 15% because none of it is connecting with me, not the first-person Psyche nor the third-person Eros, nor the prose that’s turgid to the point of hyperbole. (Did I just want the chance to deploy the word turgid? Maaaaaybe. It’s such a good word.)
August 31, 2025
A lot of feelings. Really stand out one for me is that I am jealous of a fig tree?
This book brought on thought provoking questions as well, things like Do I have more game than a tree? and then the sweeping realization that I probably do not.
This fig tree pulled a chick that’s more beautiful than Aphrodite… but, I’ve also eaten a Fig Newton before so I’m not questioning it.
Stifling the urge to tie myself to a rock just in case there’s some Greek destiny awaiting me.
3.8 clandestine marriages out of 5
This book brought on thought provoking questions as well, things like Do I have more game than a tree? and then the sweeping realization that I probably do not.
This fig tree pulled a chick that’s more beautiful than Aphrodite… but, I’ve also eaten a Fig Newton before so I’m not questioning it.
Stifling the urge to tie myself to a rock just in case there’s some Greek destiny awaiting me.
3.8 clandestine marriages out of 5
May 8, 2024
The Palace of Eros is by Caro DeRobertis author of some of my favorite novels—Cantoras and The Gods of Tango. This is the first book under their new non-binary name (formerly Carolina DeRobertis). In their words: “I wrote this novel with a heart full of love for the world, and for anyone and everyone who has longed to live outside the box.” I was eager to read it and I just finished it. A gender-fluid version of the story of Eros and Psyche. You don’t have to know the story to enjoy the book.
I have to say I am not especially fond of Greek mythology retelling but I enjoyed this for its focus on the lavish sexual feast of the relationship of Eros and Psyche. In De Robertis’s version Eros is a woman and their relationship must be hidden so it is a classic lesbian story.
As always the writing is beautiful. When Eros enters Psyche’s life is when the book picks up for me in a big way: “And she felt in that instant that she existed to bring pleasure to this girl, to bask in her, to offer her all the pleasures, all the world.”
And here is some great erotic writing:
“That the hand against my hair was honey on a thirsty tongue. The glint and shudder of fish in a stream. Silk rippling through sunlight, I was sunlight in the presence of her hand…”
I was hooked!
Yes I could enjoy this book despite the Greek myth because it is a wonderful and satisfying queer story exploring the possibilities of our world, our future, truly how we can be free.
When wondering about the shaking up of the world and the order of things, Eros says to Aphrodite her mother: “Why can’t the shape of things rise from within instead of being forced on us?”
Good question! It is a fascinating way to ponder these ideas—the context of a set Greek myth. The passion, for me, was the best part of this book. There are some special surprises for women loving women. Moreover the forward thinking, despite the ancient context, is heartening as we deal with book banning, threats of fascist and pushbacks on our basic rights.
We are progress! We are the future! And for a brief shining moment reading this book…
I have to say I am not especially fond of Greek mythology retelling but I enjoyed this for its focus on the lavish sexual feast of the relationship of Eros and Psyche. In De Robertis’s version Eros is a woman and their relationship must be hidden so it is a classic lesbian story.
As always the writing is beautiful. When Eros enters Psyche’s life is when the book picks up for me in a big way: “And she felt in that instant that she existed to bring pleasure to this girl, to bask in her, to offer her all the pleasures, all the world.”
And here is some great erotic writing:
“That the hand against my hair was honey on a thirsty tongue. The glint and shudder of fish in a stream. Silk rippling through sunlight, I was sunlight in the presence of her hand…”
I was hooked!
Yes I could enjoy this book despite the Greek myth because it is a wonderful and satisfying queer story exploring the possibilities of our world, our future, truly how we can be free.
When wondering about the shaking up of the world and the order of things, Eros says to Aphrodite her mother: “Why can’t the shape of things rise from within instead of being forced on us?”
Good question! It is a fascinating way to ponder these ideas—the context of a set Greek myth. The passion, for me, was the best part of this book. There are some special surprises for women loving women. Moreover the forward thinking, despite the ancient context, is heartening as we deal with book banning, threats of fascist and pushbacks on our basic rights.
We are progress! We are the future! And for a brief shining moment reading this book…
December 9, 2024
I was so excited to read a sapphic, genderqueer retelling of one of my favourite Greek Myths, but this just did not live up to it. Way too much time spent in the character's heads, nothing happened for a large portion of the book! The parts I found interesting were the beginning when Psyche is at home and the end when she goes through her trials. The middle bit?? SO BORED. Seeing that part two "Palace" was over 150 pages long and that about 40 pages into that section they had already had sex?? What was going to happen for the next 100 pages??? There is only so much flowery porn and tree masturbating I can read. Psyche seemed bored, I was bored. I think I was more excited than she was when her sisters arrived.
I felt that the author did not trust their reader to infer anything, everything was spelt out on the page and I was so disengaged.
I clawed my way to the end, but it was a slog. Very disappointed. I agree very strongly with another review on here that touched on the fact that it is not simply enough to tell queer stories, they actually have to be good.
I felt that the author did not trust their reader to infer anything, everything was spelt out on the page and I was so disengaged.
I clawed my way to the end, but it was a slog. Very disappointed. I agree very strongly with another review on here that touched on the fact that it is not simply enough to tell queer stories, they actually have to be good.
February 13, 2025
a sapphic horny retelling of greek mythology?? um YES
July 13, 2024
⁀➷ 3 ★ ´ˎ˗
i have very complicated mixed feelings about this book. i’m always a huge fan of queer retellings, especially when they’re rooted in greek mythology, but i feel as if mythology retellings open a gateway to pretentious stylistic choices. i loved eros being genderfluid and the exploration of feminine sexuality that was captured through this sapphic retelling, but the writing in general made this book extremely difficult for me to finish. while de robertis’ writing is undeniably beautiful, it feels immensely hollow. the flowery purple prose went on and on and felt as if despite using so many words dug up from the deepest troves of the thesaurus, nothing of importance was said. there were several sentences that i read in which i stopped and was like, “what the hell was the point of that sentence being a run-on that was the length of almost a paragraph?”
i so desperately wanted to love this book, i just don’t think it was for me overall. sometimes i think writers should stick to the saying ‘less is more’.
thank you to netgalley, atria books, and caro de robertis for this arc in exchange for my honest review.
"my whole body cried out for her, for those hands i'd felt on me."
i have very complicated mixed feelings about this book. i’m always a huge fan of queer retellings, especially when they’re rooted in greek mythology, but i feel as if mythology retellings open a gateway to pretentious stylistic choices. i loved eros being genderfluid and the exploration of feminine sexuality that was captured through this sapphic retelling, but the writing in general made this book extremely difficult for me to finish. while de robertis’ writing is undeniably beautiful, it feels immensely hollow. the flowery purple prose went on and on and felt as if despite using so many words dug up from the deepest troves of the thesaurus, nothing of importance was said. there were several sentences that i read in which i stopped and was like, “what the hell was the point of that sentence being a run-on that was the length of almost a paragraph?”
i so desperately wanted to love this book, i just don’t think it was for me overall. sometimes i think writers should stick to the saying ‘less is more’.
thank you to netgalley, atria books, and caro de robertis for this arc in exchange for my honest review.
March 9, 2025
4 / 5 🌟
“a new prison, with one cruel comfort: i was finally free from the men’s eyes.”
the only reason i didn’t give this a five star is because i wasn’t too fond of some of the phrases in the book, especially those relating to sexual assault. however, given the fact that this is a retelling of greek mythology, it made sense in the historical context - it did still make me uncomfortable though as someone who has been through this. i also was not a huge fan of how aphrodite was depicted for some of the book as a devotee of hers, but we move on. definitely give this a try if you’re looking for a grand love story and a story about finding your own inner strength and power.
“a new prison, with one cruel comfort: i was finally free from the men’s eyes.”
the only reason i didn’t give this a five star is because i wasn’t too fond of some of the phrases in the book, especially those relating to sexual assault. however, given the fact that this is a retelling of greek mythology, it made sense in the historical context - it did still make me uncomfortable though as someone who has been through this. i also was not a huge fan of how aphrodite was depicted for some of the book as a devotee of hers, but we move on. definitely give this a try if you’re looking for a grand love story and a story about finding your own inner strength and power.
August 12, 2024
2024 reads: 229/250
i received an advanced review copy from the publisher via netgalley in exchange for an honest review. this did not affect my rating.
psyche has captured the eyes of every suitor in—and beyond—town. while these men are happy to look at her, none seem to want to marry her. this stresses out her father, who becomes desperate when the townspeople begin blaming their family for failed harvests, so he seeks out the oracle’s advice. the oracle, guided by the jealous aphrodite’s child eros, instructs psyche’s father to hand her over to a monstrous husband. instead of a monster, though, psyche is swept away to an idyllic palace, where her spouse, eros, visits her at night. psyche thinks it’s odd that her prophesied husband is neither man nor monster and that she’s not allowed to see her, but she soon falls in love with eros (who she calls pteron) and her life there. when she becomes filled with doubts, though, she breaks eros’s one rule by looking at her face, which brings about trouble in her home and on olympus…
as soon as i saw this, i knew it’d be at least 4-5 stars for me. i adore greek mythology retellings, and i haven’t seen many of eros and psyche. i was only vaguely familiar with the story of eros and psyche before reading this, but refreshing my memory with quick descriptions, this seems to have captured the essence of the story. i loved the decision to make this a sapphic love story. this representation is definitely lacking when it comes to greek mythology retellings. additionally, eros is nonbinary and i found her discussions of her gender interesting.
overall, this was a beautifully-written retelling, and i’d highly recommend it to greek mythology lovers. i can’t wait for whatever’s next from caro de robertis!
i received an advanced review copy from the publisher via netgalley in exchange for an honest review. this did not affect my rating.
psyche has captured the eyes of every suitor in—and beyond—town. while these men are happy to look at her, none seem to want to marry her. this stresses out her father, who becomes desperate when the townspeople begin blaming their family for failed harvests, so he seeks out the oracle’s advice. the oracle, guided by the jealous aphrodite’s child eros, instructs psyche’s father to hand her over to a monstrous husband. instead of a monster, though, psyche is swept away to an idyllic palace, where her spouse, eros, visits her at night. psyche thinks it’s odd that her prophesied husband is neither man nor monster and that she’s not allowed to see her, but she soon falls in love with eros (who she calls pteron) and her life there. when she becomes filled with doubts, though, she breaks eros’s one rule by looking at her face, which brings about trouble in her home and on olympus…
as soon as i saw this, i knew it’d be at least 4-5 stars for me. i adore greek mythology retellings, and i haven’t seen many of eros and psyche. i was only vaguely familiar with the story of eros and psyche before reading this, but refreshing my memory with quick descriptions, this seems to have captured the essence of the story. i loved the decision to make this a sapphic love story. this representation is definitely lacking when it comes to greek mythology retellings. additionally, eros is nonbinary and i found her discussions of her gender interesting.
overall, this was a beautifully-written retelling, and i’d highly recommend it to greek mythology lovers. i can’t wait for whatever’s next from caro de robertis!
July 2, 2024
The Palace of Eros really has ruined me for sapphic Greek mythology retellings forever.
What a breathtaking story of WANTING and LONGING and DESIRE…of how women are not even told they can want and desire…wow. I highlighted so much of this book. I was captivated by the exquisite gender-expansiveness, the yearning, the intensely poetic writing. The queer joy, queer desire, queer pleasure…the queer ancestors’ light and excitement in all those who come after them…freedom and choice away from the control and gaze of men…WOW.
Thank you for the honour of reading this beautiful ARC. It had me in tears every time I sat down to read.
What a breathtaking story of WANTING and LONGING and DESIRE…of how women are not even told they can want and desire…wow. I highlighted so much of this book. I was captivated by the exquisite gender-expansiveness, the yearning, the intensely poetic writing. The queer joy, queer desire, queer pleasure…the queer ancestors’ light and excitement in all those who come after them…freedom and choice away from the control and gaze of men…WOW.
Thank you for the honour of reading this beautiful ARC. It had me in tears every time I sat down to read.
December 29, 2024
The myth of Eros and Psyche is arguably one of the best love stories in Greek mythology, and this modern retelling did not disappoint. While staying true to its roots, this version is unapologetically erotic with a sapphic twist. Eros is reimagined as a nonbinary goddess of desire (written by a nonbinary author—love that), with the ability to shift between feminine and masculine and somewhere in between, making the book fresh and dynamic.
At its heart, this is a classic story of love triumphing against all odds and the wishes of the gods. Psyche’s journey from a girl broken by the leers and control of men to reclaiming her power as a woman is deeply satisfying, and the writing of her with Eros is frankly, super hot. This is definitely the spiciest Greek myth book I’ve read and I have no complaints about that.
At its heart, this is a classic story of love triumphing against all odds and the wishes of the gods. Psyche’s journey from a girl broken by the leers and control of men to reclaiming her power as a woman is deeply satisfying, and the writing of her with Eros is frankly, super hot. This is definitely the spiciest Greek myth book I’ve read and I have no complaints about that.
September 21, 2025
In a brutal world of men and gods, a young woman resigns herself to death but instead embarks on a journey of self-discovery in the arms of a goddess, unbeknownst to her.
Yet, loving a goddess is not without complications. Eros casts a shrouding spell to hide her relationship with Psyche from the other gods, specifically her mother Aphrodite, and to keep it intact, only visits under the cover of night. She makes Psyche promise never to bring light into their bedchamber or ask for her identity. With no explanation, Psyche wonders who her "husband" really is.
I love this non-binary sapphic version of Eros. I think I am also in love with her. Sigh.
They have lots of sex and a bit of talking and grow to have a deep connection. Psyche, with her newfound inner strength, begins to feel unsettled about a relationship hidden in darkness. Choices are made, conflicts arise, and Psyche and Eros learn more about themselves and each other through the struggle.
This sapphic, feminist retelling of Psyche and Eros is sensual and empowering. What does it mean to be allowed to want? To embrace one's power of self? What does it mean to be free?
Most of the story is in first-person perspective from Psyche's point of view. I didn't find her the most compelling individual, but I did enjoy her stream of consciousness as she puzzled out her unusual circumstances. I did love seeing things from Eros's point of view.
The writing style is a bit wordy. The author is blunt in presenting the brutality and carnal nature of gods and man as they paint a picture of Psyche's and Eros's world. I felt anger, sadness, and joy, so the author did their job. I enjoyed this unique glimpse into Greek mythology with a twist. I would be interested in reading more by this author.
TW: rape, off-page, not a main character
#greekmythology #sapphic #feminist #HEA #olympus #Aphrodite
I received a free ARC from NetGalley. This is my honest opinion.
Yet, loving a goddess is not without complications. Eros casts a shrouding spell to hide her relationship with Psyche from the other gods, specifically her mother Aphrodite, and to keep it intact, only visits under the cover of night. She makes Psyche promise never to bring light into their bedchamber or ask for her identity. With no explanation, Psyche wonders who her "husband" really is.
I love this non-binary sapphic version of Eros. I think I am also in love with her. Sigh.
They have lots of sex and a bit of talking and grow to have a deep connection. Psyche, with her newfound inner strength, begins to feel unsettled about a relationship hidden in darkness. Choices are made, conflicts arise, and Psyche and Eros learn more about themselves and each other through the struggle.
This sapphic, feminist retelling of Psyche and Eros is sensual and empowering. What does it mean to be allowed to want? To embrace one's power of self? What does it mean to be free?
Most of the story is in first-person perspective from Psyche's point of view. I didn't find her the most compelling individual, but I did enjoy her stream of consciousness as she puzzled out her unusual circumstances. I did love seeing things from Eros's point of view.
The writing style is a bit wordy. The author is blunt in presenting the brutality and carnal nature of gods and man as they paint a picture of Psyche's and Eros's world. I felt anger, sadness, and joy, so the author did their job. I enjoyed this unique glimpse into Greek mythology with a twist. I would be interested in reading more by this author.
TW: rape, off-page, not a main character
#greekmythology #sapphic #feminist #HEA #olympus #Aphrodite
I received a free ARC from NetGalley. This is my honest opinion.
April 27, 2025
Oh no. Oh no, this is not for me.
This gives me too many vibes of Wrath, Goddess, Sing, which also had a very confused gender narrative that was over-obsessed with the binary it supposedly sought to subvert.
Using the word "husband" in a F/F romance does not gender-fluidity make. Nor does Psyche's constant obsession with considering marriage as phallic insertion only through so much of this narrative.
I don't buy this instant romance, the beginning is laden with hurling as many abuses at Psyche as possible (because there is a binary here: all men suck, but women are still either pliant like Psyche or narcissistic like Aphrodite--and let me tell you how bone tired I am of this depiction of Aphrodite).
It doesn't help that the prose is purple without purpose, trying so very hard to be Madeline Miller (who I have my own issues with); very little is shown to the reader and even so many of the emotional moments are simply told to us.
I cannot win with these adaptations lately. Hard not for me.
This gives me too many vibes of Wrath, Goddess, Sing, which also had a very confused gender narrative that was over-obsessed with the binary it supposedly sought to subvert.
Using the word "husband" in a F/F romance does not gender-fluidity make. Nor does Psyche's constant obsession with considering marriage as phallic insertion only through so much of this narrative.
I don't buy this instant romance, the beginning is laden with hurling as many abuses at Psyche as possible (because there is a binary here: all men suck, but women are still either pliant like Psyche or narcissistic like Aphrodite--and let me tell you how bone tired I am of this depiction of Aphrodite).
It doesn't help that the prose is purple without purpose, trying so very hard to be Madeline Miller (who I have my own issues with); very little is shown to the reader and even so many of the emotional moments are simply told to us.
I cannot win with these adaptations lately. Hard not for me.
September 16, 2024
✨mid✨ with prettier writing than your average circe knockoff but not more depth, and a heroine with an incredibly annoying and retrograde not-like-other-girls special-girl personality. that said we love a love letter to nb sex, specifically girldick!
August 9, 2025
I want an epilogue!! I loved this so much
August 13, 2024
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
This is a retelling of the myth of Psyche and Eros, and it’s quite a book. First and foremost, before even talking about the characters, the lovely romance, and the bonds of sisterhood and daughterhood, I have to talk about the writing, because it’s both the thing that drew me into the story and also the thing that, at times, made the book almost unreadable. The author has a lovely, lyrical, and lush way of writing that — when it works — really works.
This won’t be a book for everyone, and it’s one where I strongly suggest you try a sample — or pick it up from the library — so that you can judge for yourself if the writing style is going to work for you.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
4 stars
This is a retelling of the myth of Psyche and Eros, and it’s quite a book. First and foremost, before even talking about the characters, the lovely romance, and the bonds of sisterhood and daughterhood, I have to talk about the writing, because it’s both the thing that drew me into the story and also the thing that, at times, made the book almost unreadable. The author has a lovely, lyrical, and lush way of writing that — when it works — really works.
This won’t be a book for everyone, and it’s one where I strongly suggest you try a sample — or pick it up from the library — so that you can judge for yourself if the writing style is going to work for you.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
May 31, 2025
A disappointingly rushed final act, but so freaking beautiful it still deserves four stars.
Rtc!
*I received this book for free from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.*
~nonbinary Eros
~what would a queen do? do that
~All Men Are All BadTM
~Aphrodite = Mom of the Millennium (mostly)
~no laurel trees anywhere
This is going to be a weird review, because I think Palace of Eros is objectively good in many ways, and definitely deserves four stars – I really enjoyed reading it. But I also kinda hate it. That being said, I know that most people who enjoy feminist mythology retellings are not going to be bothered at all by the bits that drove me up the wall, SO. If you want to read something like Circe, but queer and with even more beautiful prose? Then I think you’ll adore this book.
Take a big pinch of salt with this review, okay? The problem is mostly that I don’t get along with books like this – I shouldn’t have requested it and that’s on me. My dislike doesn’t at ALL mean that you shouldn’t pick it up. Bear that in mind!
*
I’m quite torn over Palace of Eros – it’s not what I wanted, but it’s beautiful. It does a number of things I can’t stand, but some of those things are issues of taste and don’t make the book objectively bad. I highlighted so many passages of absolutely stunning prose, even as I rolled my eyes at quite a bit of the messaging.
Thus – torn.
Palace of Eros leaves the beaten track of the usual feminist mythology retellings by making Psyche and Eros queer, even as the template of the story is very reminiscent of Madeline Miller’s Circe and its ilk. For the most part, the writing also echoes Miller’s; sensual but accessible, although I would say that Robertis’ is grander and elevated and just generally better. But in tone? Palace of Eros is very reminiscent of Circe and its ilk, and if you love one, you’re very likely to enjoy the other.
That does mean that Palace of Eros falls into the same weird traps so many of these retellings do: there’s no female solidarity anywhere, despite the ostensible ‘beauty is a weapon of the patriarchy’ moral; all men are wholly evil, without exception (don’t @ me about Hephaestus, he’s on the page for all of two sentences); and in trying to retell the myth, a lot of the worldbuilding gets broken.
Brief plot summary for context: Psyche is so pretty that every man becomes obsessed with her, to the point that they stop worshipping Aphrodite and just stare at Psyche instead. Obviously Aphrodite is not happy about this. A prophecy is made that Psyche will marry a monster; to appease Aphrodite, Psyche is tied to a rock and left for said monster to come claim her. Instead, Eros, Aphrodite’s nonbinary daughter and goddess of desire, swoops in to carry her away, and they fall in love despite only meeting in the dark every night. If you know the myth, you know the general outline of how things go from there; if you don’t, that’s more than you need to know going into the book.
Now let’s take my three big critiques point by point.
No female solidarity: the best relationship we see in the book is Aphrodite and Eros’, and frankly, there are some big, glaring problems between them that aren’t even acknowledged, never mind addressed. Psyche’s mother is supposedly lovely, but after Psyche is ‘sacrificed’ Psyche never sees her again. Psyche’s sisters, on the other hand, are spiteful and vicious – and the relationship between them and Psyche is really the only non-romantic relationship we get to see Psyche in. The gods are no better; all the goddesses of the Greek pantheon are shown as isolated and cut off from each other. The lack of women having friends, or any other kind of relationships with each other, is just weird in the context of the women must support each other message that the book pushes quite strongly towards the end.
All men suck: Zeus is unremittingly terrible, of course – although I admit that, while common, that’s a take on Zeus I find very boring – but the book literally starts with CROWDS of men watching Psyche all day every day, being disgusting because they’re obsessed with her beauty. Hephaestus is held up as a Good Guy, but he’s so briefly on-page that I wouldn’t blame you for missing him, and no other male gods are mentioned in any other context than their histories of rape. Some don’t even appear in the story, but we still get long paragraphs on how they raped this person or that person, just so we don’t forget that all men are evil without nuance or remorse, and I cannot believe I keep getting shoved into the position of yelling But Not All Men when that is the last thing I want to be doing. And yet, here I am, once again pointing out that having all your men be evil isn’t really any different to making all your women into sex-obsessed harlots breasting boobily down the stairs – neither take is good writing. It’s not even an INTERESTING kind of evil! I don’t care about the ethics of it, I care that it’s fucking boring to be hit over the head with this again and again. There are men who don’t rape! I can’t believe I have to say that! And yes, lots of the Greek gods were horrible rapists – but people still worshipped them, so clearly their characterisation was complicated, back in the day? As in, they did bad AND good/helpful things? Could we have some of that, please? I am dying for some complexity, some nuance, some three-dimensional characterisation of male characters instead of these constant caricatures. Authors, you are undermining your own messaging by only writing these simplistic straw men.
Read the rest at Every Book a Doorway!
Rtc!
*I received this book for free from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.*
~nonbinary Eros
~what would a queen do? do that
~All Men Are All BadTM
~Aphrodite = Mom of the Millennium (mostly)
~no laurel trees anywhere
This is going to be a weird review, because I think Palace of Eros is objectively good in many ways, and definitely deserves four stars – I really enjoyed reading it. But I also kinda hate it. That being said, I know that most people who enjoy feminist mythology retellings are not going to be bothered at all by the bits that drove me up the wall, SO. If you want to read something like Circe, but queer and with even more beautiful prose? Then I think you’ll adore this book.
Take a big pinch of salt with this review, okay? The problem is mostly that I don’t get along with books like this – I shouldn’t have requested it and that’s on me. My dislike doesn’t at ALL mean that you shouldn’t pick it up. Bear that in mind!
*
I’m quite torn over Palace of Eros – it’s not what I wanted, but it’s beautiful. It does a number of things I can’t stand, but some of those things are issues of taste and don’t make the book objectively bad. I highlighted so many passages of absolutely stunning prose, even as I rolled my eyes at quite a bit of the messaging.
Thus – torn.
Palace of Eros leaves the beaten track of the usual feminist mythology retellings by making Psyche and Eros queer, even as the template of the story is very reminiscent of Madeline Miller’s Circe and its ilk. For the most part, the writing also echoes Miller’s; sensual but accessible, although I would say that Robertis’ is grander and elevated and just generally better. But in tone? Palace of Eros is very reminiscent of Circe and its ilk, and if you love one, you’re very likely to enjoy the other.
the hand against my hair was honey on a thirsty tongue. The glint and shudder of fish in a stream. Silk rippling through sunlight. I was sunlight, in the presence of her hand. I had not known, before, that this was possible, that a body could be transmuted into light by another person’s touch. I gleamed, I was lost, I was vast inside. Some part of me must have known even then.
That does mean that Palace of Eros falls into the same weird traps so many of these retellings do: there’s no female solidarity anywhere, despite the ostensible ‘beauty is a weapon of the patriarchy’ moral; all men are wholly evil, without exception (don’t @ me about Hephaestus, he’s on the page for all of two sentences); and in trying to retell the myth, a lot of the worldbuilding gets broken.
Brief plot summary for context: Psyche is so pretty that every man becomes obsessed with her, to the point that they stop worshipping Aphrodite and just stare at Psyche instead. Obviously Aphrodite is not happy about this. A prophecy is made that Psyche will marry a monster; to appease Aphrodite, Psyche is tied to a rock and left for said monster to come claim her. Instead, Eros, Aphrodite’s nonbinary daughter and goddess of desire, swoops in to carry her away, and they fall in love despite only meeting in the dark every night. If you know the myth, you know the general outline of how things go from there; if you don’t, that’s more than you need to know going into the book.
Now let’s take my three big critiques point by point.
No female solidarity: the best relationship we see in the book is Aphrodite and Eros’, and frankly, there are some big, glaring problems between them that aren’t even acknowledged, never mind addressed. Psyche’s mother is supposedly lovely, but after Psyche is ‘sacrificed’ Psyche never sees her again. Psyche’s sisters, on the other hand, are spiteful and vicious – and the relationship between them and Psyche is really the only non-romantic relationship we get to see Psyche in. The gods are no better; all the goddesses of the Greek pantheon are shown as isolated and cut off from each other. The lack of women having friends, or any other kind of relationships with each other, is just weird in the context of the women must support each other message that the book pushes quite strongly towards the end.
All men suck: Zeus is unremittingly terrible, of course – although I admit that, while common, that’s a take on Zeus I find very boring – but the book literally starts with CROWDS of men watching Psyche all day every day, being disgusting because they’re obsessed with her beauty. Hephaestus is held up as a Good Guy, but he’s so briefly on-page that I wouldn’t blame you for missing him, and no other male gods are mentioned in any other context than their histories of rape. Some don’t even appear in the story, but we still get long paragraphs on how they raped this person or that person, just so we don’t forget that all men are evil without nuance or remorse, and I cannot believe I keep getting shoved into the position of yelling But Not All Men when that is the last thing I want to be doing. And yet, here I am, once again pointing out that having all your men be evil isn’t really any different to making all your women into sex-obsessed harlots breasting boobily down the stairs – neither take is good writing. It’s not even an INTERESTING kind of evil! I don’t care about the ethics of it, I care that it’s fucking boring to be hit over the head with this again and again. There are men who don’t rape! I can’t believe I have to say that! And yes, lots of the Greek gods were horrible rapists – but people still worshipped them, so clearly their characterisation was complicated, back in the day? As in, they did bad AND good/helpful things? Could we have some of that, please? I am dying for some complexity, some nuance, some three-dimensional characterisation of male characters instead of these constant caricatures. Authors, you are undermining your own messaging by only writing these simplistic straw men.
Read the rest at Every Book a Doorway!
June 18, 2025
I would be the guardian of the soul. The truths of souls. Like mine. Like yours. I wanted to reshape the world in hopes there would be a future time, a future place, in which you could exist, you to whom I’ve been telling this story, my kin, my faraway descendant, my beloved instigator of songs and pleasures and truths not yet named or welcomed by the laws of god and man. You who were born perfect yet outside the rules of whatever temples oversee your times. You whose desire shatters the cage. You, born hundreds or thousands of years from this moment by the sea. You who might have loved me if you could have known me, whom I already love even though I cannot see your face, for I feel your beauty in the timeless, boundless dark. You are exquisite, completely yourself. Beloved. Friend. Utterly free.
Ohhh I really loved this. read it as #research and I was a little apprehensive at first because the last cupid and psyche retelling I read I honestly did not like that much. This was really beautiful, even if a little overly flowery at times. LESBIAN HUSBAND FOR THE WIN
Ohhh I really loved this. read it as #research and I was a little apprehensive at first because the last cupid and psyche retelling I read I honestly did not like that much. This was really beautiful, even if a little overly flowery at times. LESBIAN HUSBAND FOR THE WIN
August 16, 2024
Disclaimer that I won an ARC of “The Palace of Eros” in a Goodreads giveaway and also was in a workshop Caro De Robertis taught at USF (they are a lovely person in general as well as an amazing writer!). That did not affect my rating.
“The Palace of Eros” truly is a gorgeous and lyrical Psyche and Eros retelling. The narrative stays very true to the original myth, but the heart of this book is very much about women and nonbinary people finding their power and trusting in it.
Psyche’s story is grounded, especially in the beginning, in a well researched historical world, but the magical elements are intertwined perfectly. It’s a fable that also pushes against the boundaries of traditional fables and the story finds its place in that space perfectly.
Absolutely recommend!
“The Palace of Eros” truly is a gorgeous and lyrical Psyche and Eros retelling. The narrative stays very true to the original myth, but the heart of this book is very much about women and nonbinary people finding their power and trusting in it.
Psyche’s story is grounded, especially in the beginning, in a well researched historical world, but the magical elements are intertwined perfectly. It’s a fable that also pushes against the boundaries of traditional fables and the story finds its place in that space perfectly.
Absolutely recommend!
December 7, 2025
Such a fascinating take on the myth of Eros and Psyche in this sapphic retelling. Even though the sentences were at times a bit too flowery, I could not put the book down!
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