I liked the idea of this book, but did not enjoy reading it. As is typical for the time, there is a lot of rape and pillaging and murder. God's and conspiracy. The story is narrated by the goddess Hera. It provides a very opinionated omniscience. I was not a fan of her (overly lengthy) descriptions of people. And so many names to track! I did like how Penelope and the other women did the best to control their fates in a world ruled by gods and man. It is a harsh life for all.
You don't need to know much of the tale of the Odyssey to follow the story. My favorite character was Kenamon, the Egyptian suitor.