Herc

Hercules is given a voice in this feminist, queer, and occasionally shocking retelling of the classic Hercules myth by Jodi Taylor, perfect for fans of Madeline Miller and Joanne M. Harris.

Format: Hardback
Length: 416 pages
Publication date: 31 August 2023
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers

Hercules, the legendary hero, has been a favorite for centuries, known for his twelve labors and countless adventures. However, this book takes a different perspective, focusing on the lives of the people surrounding Hercules.

Meet Alcmene, Hercules' mother, who is armed with knives and always ready for a fight. Hylas, his first friend, is more than just a companion; they share a deep bond that goes beyond friendship. Megara, Hercules' wife, is a strong and independent woman who tells her own story of their marriage.

Eurystheus, the king who oversaw Hercules' labors, is portrayed as a bureaucratic figure who never asked for the job but was forced into it. His friends, enemies, wives, children, lovers, rivals, gods, and victims all have their own stories to tell.

In this feminist, queer, and sometimes shocking retelling of the classic Hercules myth, Hercules gives voice to the silenced characters. This book is perfect for fans of Madeline Miller and Joanne M. Harris, as it offers a fresh and unique perspective on the beloved hero.

One reviewer on NetGalley exclaimed, "Astonishingly vivid Jodi Taylor! One of those special books that I'll still be mulling over in years to come." Another reviewer stated, "A new favorite Greek Mythology retelling! NetGalley reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐." They continued, "This should be the story of Hercules: his twelve labors, his endless adventures... everyone's favorite hero, right? Wrong. This is the story of everyone else: Alcmene: Hercs mother (She has knives everywhere) Hylas: Hercs first friend (They were more than friends) Megara: Hercs wife (She'll tell you about their marriage) Eurystheus: Oversaw Hercs labors (He never asked for the job) His friends, his enemies, his wives, his children, his lovers, his rivals, his gods, his victims. It's time to hear their stories."

Another reviewer on NetGalley exclaimed, "An absolute delight! NetGalley reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐." They continued, "An absolute delight! I couldn't put this book down! The characters are well-developed, and the story is captivating. I highly recommend it to fans of Greek Mythology and anyone who enjoys a good story."

In conclusion, this book is a must-read for fans of Greek Mythology and anyone who enjoys a fresh and unique perspective on a beloved hero. With its vivid storytelling, well-developed characters, and captivating plot, it will leave you eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series.

Weight: 640g
Dimension: 162 x 242 x 38 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780008589820