Leah Rochelle’s Oenone describes the adventure of a sculpture of Oenone (of Greek mythology fame) that Aphrodite brings to life in the modern world. Oenone is searching for a reincarnation of her husband, Paris. This summary may have The Mummy vibes, but this book is not a horror offering. Instead, it’s a supernatural romance between an ancient wood nymph and a modern man who helps her navigate this new world.
The plot plays out in ways you may have expected. Aphrodite (who is very much living and very much a goddess) brings to life Oenone’s statue and informs her to seek her true love. She also says a reincarnated Paris is somewhere close. Oenone wreaks havoc in her St. Louis museum, but a friendly guard helps her get acclimated to the United States in modern times. With a little vision and some Googling, Oenone finds Paris in Chicago. From there, it’s off to be reunited with her husband, but will he recognize and accept her?
The fish-out-of-water first part of the book works extremely well, and we grow to like Oenone who is represented here as a loyal wife with an adventurous spirit. The second part of the book concerns Paris, Oenone’s life in Chicago, and her choice of what life to choose. The book’s entertaining beginning really captures the tone. A world that is still ruled by the Greek gods—though people don’t know it—is a delightful difference from most books. It’s also a delight to view the world from Oenone’s perspective and watch her grow and expand—she has an arc worth reading. Lastly, the ending sticks the landing, and Oenone emerges as a character to treasure.
The turning point is a bit overdone as the reader knows full well how much of a creep a certain side character is. I would have preferred Oenone to judge said character earlier and dismiss them without the final betrayal. The theme of independence struggles with other themes in the book as this is both woman’s literature and a romance novel, always a tricky balance.
Oenone is Leah Rochelle’s debut novel, and it’s a winner. The supernatural, the ancient woman in modern times first part, and the romance comes together in a pleasing way. If you enjoy these three themes, you’re certain to like this novel.