The Lost Daughter of Sparta by Felicia Day was started as an online reader copy. It would also be finished that way, however, I did not realize the first copy I had was only a sample. After asking if there was a chance for a physical copy, I was informed that there was a finished copy online. Finally! So what should have been a couple of lunches was a several month endeavor. But regardless, I was going to finish this reimagined Greek myth.
When I started, I felt it was a good story about a girl doing the “right thing” to help break a curse that plagues herself and sisters. Each one has betrayed a husband or lover in some way. And our main character, Philnoe, has an extra curse: a giant stain that covers most of her face. While her sisters can hide (unless someone knows who Helen of Troy, Clytemnestra or Timandra were) she cannot hide her imperfections, her curse, her punishment. Yet, as Gods and Goddesses get interested in helping Philnoe (or so it may seem) she learns what it means to be perfect, what real love is, and how she is worthy in her own way.
Of course, Day takes modern sensibilities (love, sex, gender, gender roles) and adds them to the classic Greek myth. The illustrations were interesting (the use of red is important) but overall I was not the audience for them. Things are strong female power, the power of self love and letting yourself be loved. The language is contemporary to fit a reader of today. Due to some sexual and violent content, I would recommend it for at least ages 13 and up, but know your younger reader as it is promoted as a new adult and/or adult graphic novel.