Jason & the Argonauts have stolen the Golden Fleece and are on the run back home to depose Jason’s uncle Pelias who has stole his fathers crown. First though, they have to make it there, adventures abound on their journey involving stories and figures from the Greek myths. Theseus, Ariadne, Herakles, Persephone, Demeter, Hera & Zeus included! I didn’t realise this was a sequel until I’d read it all and looked it up. I can’t wait to read the first book, Argo, and the upcoming Hades. As a lifelong fan of the Harryhausen movies and books by Mary Renault, I am so glad to have discovered this series. This book grabbed me and wouldn’t let go! Highly recommended.

Although Jason and his crew have managed to steal not one but two Golden Fleece from Colchis, they still have to get home. The crew of the Argo is beset by problems, the angry people chasing them, the hostility at each landing place, violent tribesmen, a witch and sirens leading them to their doom. Not all of them will make it home and those that do will be changed forever. I hadn't read the first book in this series and that made it difficult to get into the ongoing story as there are several strands that are followed. Obviously the set pieces are well set up and written with that visceral urgency that brings life to fights. What I found more interesting was the approach to aspects of myths or culture that is taken, for example, the sirens do lure men to their death but not in the way of myth. I also loved the sly references to Harryhausen's fantasy film including the bronze warrior.