I have read quite a few retellings of the famous Trojan epics - but have never managed to untangle the mass of characters, or feel any understanding of how life was managed in those days - this book opens up the whole era. The characterisation, particularly of the women, is masterly. I do not know how Pat Barker has amassed her historical information, or how accurate it is - but it certainly brings a wonderful vividness and totally believable life to the whole story. I was gripped - and can still remember it all several weeks after I turned the last page, and reluctantly put the book down.