The Heroines: The 2023 debut novel to get everyone talking. Ancient Greece. The scandal of the century. A royal family on trial.

In Athens, Phaedra, the young bride of King Theseus, accuses her stepson, Hippolytus, of rape. The men of Athens must determine the truth, but the women know that truth is a slippery thing. The Heroines is a timely and labyrinthian retelling of the trial of Phaedra that breaks down the old walls and illuminates the true monsters. It is a mesmerizing read that asks us to consider how our understanding is influenced by who is telling the story and why.

Format: Hardback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 09 February 2023
Publisher: Little, Brown Book Group

In the bustling city of Athens, the eyes of the world turn towards the majestic courthouse, where a sensational trial is taking place. The royal family, once revered and respected, finds itself entangled in a web of scandal and deceit. The young bride of King Theseus, Phaedra, stands accused of a heinous crime: raping her stepson, Hippolytus. He is a prince, a talented horseman, and a promising noble with his entire future ahead of him. On the other hand, Phaedra is a young and neglected wife, the youngest in a long line of Cretan women with a less-than-savoury reputation. The men of Athens, duty-bound to seek the truth, must determine the fate of these two individuals. However, the women of the city know that truth is a slippery concept, often clouded by the shadows of heroes and monsters. They understand that there are two sides to every story, and their voices have been silenced for far too long.

Until now.

The Heroines, a captivating novel by acclaimed author J OANNE BURN, takes us on a thrilling journey into the heart of this historic trial. Through the eyes of Phaedra, Hippolytus, and the women of Athens, BURN weaves a intricate tapestry of intrigue, rage, and pathos. The trial itself is a masterfully crafted spectacle, filled with political maneuvering, power struggles, and hidden agendas. As the evidence unfolds, the lines between guilt and innocence become blurred, and the true monsters emerge from the shadows.

BURN's writing is audacious and spirited, taking readers on a rollercoaster ride of emotions. She challenges the most enduring myth of all: that women are to blame. The Heroines subverts this notion by presenting a nuanced and complex portrayal of the female characters. They are not passive victims or vengeful femme fatales, but strong and resilient individuals who have been forced to navigate a patriarchal society. Phaedra, for instance, is a victim of her circumstances but also a woman who possesses a fierce intellect and a thirst for justice. Hippolytus, too, is a complex character, torn between his loyalty to his family and his desire for freedom.

The supporting characters in The Heroines are equally compelling. From the wise and enigmatic Queen Hippolyta to the fierce and determined Eurydice, each character brings their own unique perspective to the story. BURN's portrayal of the women of Athens is particularly noteworthy, as she highlights their strength, resilience, and determination in the face of adversity. They are not just pawns in the game of power, but active participants who have the power to shape their own destinies.

The Heroines is a timely and labyrinthian retelling of the trial of Phaedra, breaking down the old walls and illuminating the true monsters. BURN's writing is a testament to her skill as a storyteller, as she weaves together historical detail, mythological references, and contemporary themes to create a rich and immersive narrative. The novel is a captivating read, filled with vivid characters, dark twists, and a shimmering brilliance that will leave readers breathless.

In conclusion, The Heroines is a must-read for anyone who loves historical fiction, feminist literature, or a compelling story that challenges societal norms. J OANNE BURN's writing is masterful, and the novel offers a fresh and exciting perspective on a well-known tale. The Heroines is a testament to the power of storytelling and the importance of listening to the voices of women who have been silenced for far too long.

Weight: 566g
Dimension: 163 x 242 x 35 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781408725429