Imagine a world where the ancient pantheons of Greece and Rome weren't just myths, but a vibrant, tangible reality. That's the audacious premise at the heart of Gordon Randall Garrett and Laurence Mark Janifer's "Pagan Passions," a science fiction novel that reimagines Earth under the direct influence of its old gods.
This isn't just a historical fantasy; it's a world transformed. War is outlawed, economic instability a relic of the past, and societal norms have been radically reshaped. New York City, for instance, sees its iconic Empire State Building reborn as the Tower of Zeus. Into this surreal landscape steps William Forrester, an acolyte of Athena, the Goddess of Wisdom. His role? To teach a history that's as altered as the world itself.
But the narrative quickly introduces a compelling tension. Forrester, devoted to the intellectual pursuits championed by Athena, finds himself navigating a world brimming with the very temptations he's sworn to resist. His student, Maya Wilson, a worshipper of Venus, Goddess of Love, clearly has a different agenda for her grades. And it's not just her; Forrester is caught between the intellectual pleasures he cherishes and the alluring pressures from devotees of Bacchus and other pleasure-seeking deities.
His journey is framed as a series of trials, echoing the legendary labors of Hercules. His love interest, Gerda Symes, shares his devotion to Athena and the Temple of Pallas Athena (formerly the 42nd Street Library), representing a sanctuary of the mind. Yet, the pervasive sensuality of this new Earth, embodied by the devotees of Venus and Bacchus, constantly tests his resolve. Adding to the intrigue are the Temple Myrmidons, a sort of religious police force, who arrive with an order for Forrester's apprehension.
The novel promises a deep dive into Forrester's experiences, the astonishing discoveries he makes about himself, and the true nature of these returned deities. It's a blend of suspense, mystery, and danger, all wrapped in a science fiction package where the supernatural feels not just plausible, but seamlessly integrated. Despite the ever-present threat, the story promises a sense of fun, a testament to the authors' ability to make even the most perilous situations engaging.
"Pagan Passions" offers a unique exploration of faith, temptation, and the clash between intellect and desire, all set against a backdrop where the divine is very much alive and kicking.
