Savage Beasts

In the historical novel "The Weight of Blood," Meena, a neglected and abused daughter of the Nawabs, falls under the spell of James Chilcott, a nephew of Sir Peter Chilcott, who claims to betray the East India Company for a price. They escape Calcutta, but past resentments and present betrayals arise as they struggle to overcome their differences. Meena is forced to sacrifice when love turns to hate. The novel is a retelling of the Medea myth and is praised for its vivid and vibrant portrayal of a dark and difficult world.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 25 May 2023
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers

A captivating and distinctive rendition of the Medea myth, this novel truly shines! Sunday Times bestselling author Sophie Irwin has crafted a tale that is both captivating and thought-provoking, filled with dramatic twists and vividly portrayed characters. Claire Heywood, author of Daughters of Sparta, praises it as "bold and illuminating," highlighting its propulsive retelling inspired by the Greek myth.

Set in 1757, Bengal is on the verge of war, with the East India Company, led by the formidable Sir Peter Chilcott, advancing relentlessly. Meena, the neglected and abused daughter of the Nawabs, finds herself ensnared by James Chilcott, the nephew of Sir Peter, who claims to be willing to betray the company for a substantial price. Caught between loyalty and treachery, Meena and James escape Calcutta, their hands stained with blood and their pockets filled with gold.

In Ceylon, they seek solace and redemption from Meena's beloved aunt Kiran, cleansing themselves of their sins before setting sail for the Dutch-controlled Cape of Good Hope, holding the promise of a new life. However, as they navigate their journey, past resentments and present betrayals begin to accumulate, testing the strength of their love.

In a foreign land without any familiar support, Meena is forced to confront the depths of her resilience and determination. As love turns to hate, she is compelled to make sacrificial choices that will shape her fate and the course of history.

This novel is a must-read for fans of The Song of Achilles, Ariadne, and Pandora. It offers a fresh perspective on the Medea myth, blending the familiar story with vibrant and innovative elements. Author Selvarajah skillfully interweaves the ancient tale with contemporary themes, creating a narrative that is both mythic and relevant.

Sarah Underwood, author of the New York Times bestseller Lies We Sing to the Sea, praises it as "extraordinary," noting how Selvarajah skillfully interweaves the familiar story of Medea with something vivid, vibrant, and entirely new. Laura Shepperson, a Sunday Times bestselling author of The Heroines, also commends the novel, describing it as a "clever and compassionate retelling of the Medea myth." Tasha Suri, author of the TikTok sensation The Jasmine, adds that the book is "mythic, rageful, and timely," calling it a "devastating must-read."

In conclusion, A Beautiful and Unique Retelling of Medea is a captivating novel that delves into the complexities of love, loyalty, and sacrifice. With its rich historical setting, vivid characters, and thought-provoking narrative, this book is sure to captivate readers and leave a lasting impact. Whether you are a fan of Greek mythology or simply seeking a compelling and emotionally charged story, this novel is a must-read.

Weight: 254g
Dimension: 129 x 197 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780008556280