“The Curse of King Midas” by Colleen M. Story

The Curse of King Midas

Colleen M. Story
Midchannel Press (2024)
ISBN: 978-0999099193
Reviewed by Shawna Thompson for Reader Views (12/2024)

King Midas, the compassionate ruler of Phrygia, governs from the enchanting city of Gordium and is deeply devoted to the happiness and well-being of his people. His confrontation with the formidable King Sargon II, whose powerful presence casts a shadow over Midas’s aspirations, is a heart-wrenching struggle. As tensions escalate between these two leaders, the impending clash feels both inevitable and intensely emotional—two men driven by their desires for their realms, understanding that the outcomes will profoundly impact the lives of their people for generations to come in “The Curse of King Midas” by Colleen M. Story.

In this enchanting tale, ancient history and mythology intertwine. We delve into the life of Katiah, the enigmatic underworld goddess. One day, Katiah crosses paths with Karem, a spirited young boy with dreams more prominent than his small village. Little does he know that he is destined to become King Midas, a ruler whose name will resonate through the ages.

Karem’s world is turned upside down when he learns that his beloved sister, Eleanor, has fallen into grave peril. In desperation, Karem makes a fateful choice: he pledges to worship Katiah for the entirety of his life, believing that this sacrifice will grant him the power to save Eleanor. As Karem rises to his fate as King Midas, he is burdened by the weight of his promise to Katiah. He realizes that the pact he forged now hangs heavily over his reign, intertwining his destiny with the underworld in ways he never anticipated. The struggle between his responsibilities as a king and his commitment to Katiah poses a profound dilemma, shaping the man he will become and the legacy he will leave behind.

King Midas also encounters Goddess Denisia of Mt. Nysa, who has lost her father, and learns he is in the kingdom of Gordium. Unbeknownst to her, finding him will also change her life, along with that of Anchurus, the king’s son, and King Midas. Denisia bargains with King Midas not to harm her father; in return, everything he touches will turn to gold. Midas believes this will grant him immense wealth and help him defeat King Sargon. However, every gift comes with a price, and this wish may cost him more than he anticipates.

The climactic showdown between King Midas and King Sargon II occurs on the tumultuous battlefield of Karama Valley, where chaos reigns. With swords drawn and their hearts racing, the stakes are high, and both kings know that the outcome of this confrontation will determine not only their fates but the future of their kingdoms. Amidst the roar of battle cries and the clash of steel, some will emerge victorious, while others will not survive the day.

The characters King Midas, King Sargon, Denisia, and Katiah are well-developed and engaging. They draw you into their world and allow you to experience their struggles. The depictions of war and the cities are not just easy to visualize but vivid and immersive, making you feel like you’re right there in the midst of the action.

As an avid reader, I consistently seek literature that offers a profound and lasting impact. In this regard, “The Curse of King Midas,” the first book in a distinguished series, by Colleen M. Story stands out as an unforgettable work. The author successfully develops a cast of engaging characters, each with intricate narratives that contribute to the overall depth of the story. The plot is thoughtfully constructed, with a series of unexpected twists that sustain reader engagement throughout. This work exemplifies remarkable storytelling and critical depth, making it a noteworthy addition to any literary collection.