Review: Daughters of Sparta

Title- Daughters of Sparta

Author- Claire Heywood

Pages- 370

Genre- Mythology, Historical Fiction

Rating- 4/5

ISBN 13- 9781529349931

Review No.- 57

Synopsis-

For millennia, two women have been blamed for the fall of a mighty civilisation - but now it's time to hear their side of the story...

As princesses of Sparta, Helen and Klytemnestra have known nothing but luxury and plenty. With their high birth and unrivalled beauty, they are the envy of all of Greece.

Such privilege comes at a high price, though, and their destinies are not theirs to command. While still only girls they are separated and married off to legendary foreign kings Agamemnon and Menelaos, never to meet again. Their duty is now to give birth to the heirs society demands and be the meek, submissive queens their men expect.

But when the weight of their husbands' neglect, cruelty and ambition becomes too heavy to bear, they must push against the constraints of their sex to carve new lives for themselves - and in doing so make waves that will ripple throughout the next three thousand years.

Perfect for readers of Circe and Ariadne, Daughters of Sparta is a vivid and illuminating retelling of the Siege of Troy that tells the story of mythology's most vilified women from their own mouths at long last.

Review- 

"Daughters of Sparta" by Claire Heywood is a captivating and richly detailed historical fiction novel that explores the lives of two legendary women of ancient Greece: Helen of Troy and her sister, Klytemnestra. Heywood's writing style is evocative and immersive, transporting the reader to the world of Ancient Greece, with all its grandeur, beauty, and brutality. 

The story follows the sisters from childhood to adulthood, as they navigate their complex relationships with each other, their families, and the men who shape their lives. Heywood does an excellent job of bringing the two sisters to life, imbuing them with unique personalities, desires, and struggles. Helen is portrayed fiercely independent and intelligent woman, who longs for adventure and freedom. Klytemnestra, on the other hand, is more pragmatic and stoic, but equally determined to chart her own path in life. 

The novel's exploration of the sisters' relationship is one of its strongest aspects. Heywood delved into the complexities of their bond, highlighting the love, jealousy, rivalry, and betrayal that exists between them. The depiction of their sisterhood is realistic and nuanced, with both sisters portrayed as flawed and multidimensional characters.

Heywood's attention to historical detail is also impressive. The novel is steeped in ancient Greek mythology, culture, and politics, with the events and characters of the Trojan War serving as a backdrop to the sisters' story. The depictions of the settings, clothing, and customs of ancient Greece are vivid and well-researched, adding an extra layer of authenticity to the story.

The pacing of the novel is well-balanced, with enough action, drama, and character development to keep the reader engaged throughout the story. The alternating perspectives between Helen and Klytemnestra also add an extra layer of depth to the narrative, allowing the reader to see events from both sisters' perspectives.

Overall, "Daughters of Sparta" is a beautifully written and compelling historical fiction novel that will appeal to fans of Greek mythology and ancient history. Heywood's immersive writing style, well-developed characters, and attention to historical detail make for a captivating reading experience.

I thank Netgalley and Hodder & Stoughton for providing me with an advanced reader's copy. All opinions are my own.