In The Midst Of Omens-Review

How do you bring a God King down to earth? You give him something that he’s never had before. 

This is the premise behind the Epic of Gilgamesh and it forms the core tenant of In The Midst of Omens by Nicole Bailey, a new take on the great story. And what a story it is.

When we are introduced to Gilgamesh, we meet a man, a God, who is hellbent on securing his legacy. He wants to rule everything the sun touches. He wants to leave behind a legacy that will see him remembered forever. 

To that end he embarks first on a negotiation then a war with the city-state of Umma. The fight there brings him a vision, one that will play a crucial role throughout the story. Disturbed by this he visits his mother, the Goddess Ninsun, and as Goddesses often do, she gives him a hint but nothing more.

His mother and his wife, Shahmat, are conspiring together. Not to bring him down, but to make him realise that the present is what matters. Not the future. 

To this end we meet Enkidu, a man created by the Gods to try and satiate and distract Gilgamesh. 

Their initial meeting is fraught; full kudos to Nicole Bailey for that genius! Then as they embark on a campaign and as Gilgamesh soothes the man from the wild, love blossoms. A love that cannot be tamed by either man no matter their efforts—and oh how they try! 

Gilgamesh, this insatiable man, focused on his legacy is brought to earth and to love when he and his friend confront the dragon stalking the forest. Death and loss and rebirth brings Gilgamesh clarity and brings him and Enkidu together, but at a cost.

For Gilgamesh has tried desperately to prevent Inanna, the patron Goddess of Uruk from consuming him and his beloved city. But at the last, perhaps he is thwarted.

Nicole Bailey has done a fantastic job bringing these legendary characters to life. To adding detail and meat to their bones. 

My favourite part of this story was how she showed Gilgamesh, a God King, realising what really matters. 

I also particularly liked his relationship with Shahmat, their unusual marriage and the way they complimented one another to fulfil their shared goal.

If you’re a fan of the Ancient Near East, historical fiction or just fantastic writing in general, be sure to purchase In The Midst Of Omens on 4th June.