COMPANION OF THE ASH Paperback – December 13, 2018

I loved this book. Everything about it.Set in ancient Troy, Greece, and the surrounding areas, the author does a phenomenal job painting a vivid picture of the culture and landscape, both gorgeous and savage. From the hairstyles to the architecture to the societal hierarchy, Spitzmiller's attention to detail makes this a very intriguing read.The novel starts in chaos, the beginning of the story dropping us right at the moment of Achilles gloating over Prince Hector's death. We all know that story and the surrounding tales, but we are led through the subsequent events through the POV of Andromache, Hector's widow. We meet her as she watches her beloved Hector's body being defiled by Achilles, as the Greek warrior shouts taunts at her and her kingdom. And it doesn't get better from there.The protagonist, Andromache, is one of the best written female characters I have read in a long time. Throughout the book, she goes through unimaginable horrors, but maintains a grace and strength that is truly remarkable. I felt every bit of this devastating, emotional journey. Long after I finished this book, the scenes are still playing very vividly in my mind.I cannot wait to see what else Spitzmiller has in store for us.

The author triumphs in turning classic Homeric icons into flesh-and-blood characters in this re-imagining of the aftermath of the fall of Troy. Andromache, wife of the slain Hector, is taken by the conquering Greeks and suffers the brutal life of a slave at the hands of her captor, including starvation and continual, brutal sexual assault. But she is a survivor, and overcomes her fate through sheer grit. Despite her tragic story of loss, she remains resilient to the end. In the author's hands, Andromache is a heroine for any millennium.

I am not an ancient history buff, so my opinion of this historical fiction novel is focused on the fiction aspect, which I felt was skillfully done, a fast-moving, compelling plot balanced with emotion and depth. As I followed Andromache's journey, my heart broke for her. It is a harrowing tale, with hope, courage, and a strength of character that is quite inspirational. I wish I could be half as strong as this main character.

I have always been fascinated by Andromache and her life after Hector and Troy. This is truly an amazing story, one of the best books I've read in years!

Companion of the Ash succeeds on every level. Spitzmiller breathes life into historical characters while creating authentic settings which I found engaging. I felt transported. The heroine, Andromache. is a compelling character suffering brutality and loss who perseveres with grace. The dialogue is on point for the period. Companion of Ash has everything I look for in historical fiction.

This is a fascinating story well told. I read the Odyssey in high school and it forever turned me off to Homer... until I picked up this book. It's a quick read because it's hard to put down. It dramatizes the plight of women in ancient times and the fact that they had so few options. While wrestling with the temptation to become bitter, Kate Spitzmiller's Andromache manages to hold fast to her values and loyalties and to do the right thing and the kind thing even in terrible times. I loved the ending. I'd recommend this book to both women and men, young and old. It's a classic tale with a strong heroine whose personality sticks in your mind even after you finish reading.

An incredibly powerful story with rich descriptions of a beautiful land and a compelling protagonist.It tells the story of Hector’s widow after the fall of Troy. An interesting perspective especially in light of today’s headlines about the role of women in Ancient Greece. It’s a great book and a fast read!

The novel take me to a time long ago but the characters are relatable to current day. Loss becomes a theme and overcoming struggle which were woven artfully in an ancient setting. It was fast paced and kept me turning the page.