The Women of Troy: The Sunday Times Number One Bestseller

In her novel The Women of Troy, Pat Barker retells the story of the Trojan War from the perspective of the women who were involved. The book explores themes of gender, power, and revenge and is praised for its vivid and compelling writing.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 02 June 2022
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

In her captivating and critically acclaimed novel, "The Women of Troy," Pat Barker takes readers on a profound journey into the heart of one of history's most enduring myths. Following her bestselling "The Silence of the Girls," Barker delves deeper into the lives of the women who were caught up in the tragic events of the Trojan War.

The story unfolds as the Greeks prepare to return home as victors after their long and bitter war against Troy. However, their journey is halted by a series of unforeseen circumstances. The wind, which would have carried their sails, has vanished, leaving the warriors stranded in the shadow of the city they once destroyed. In their company are the women they had stolen from Troy, including Helen, the beautiful and graceful queen, Cassandra, the prophetess with a gift for prophecy, Amina, the fierce and determined princess, Hecuba, the grieving mother, and Briseis, carrying the future of the dead hero Achilles in her womb.

Through the eyes of these women, Barker explores the complex and multifaceted nature of their experiences. Helen, once the object of desire and admiration, is reduced to a mere pawn in the men's games of power and revenge. Cassandra, who has learned to be skeptical of her prophecies, struggles to find meaning and purpose in a world that often dismisses her as a mere woman. Amina, determined to avenge the slaughter of her king, faces countless obstacles and challenges as she fights for her rightful place in the world. Hecuba, consumed by grief and longing for her lost husband, clings to the hope of reuniting with him in the afterlife. And Briseis, caught between the desires of her own future and the legacy of her heroic past, must navigate the treacherous waters of love, loyalty, and destiny.

"The Women of Troy" is a masterful and enduringly resonant novel that delves into the themes of power, gender, and the human condition. Barker's writing is characterized by its plain truths and clear-eyed sense of history and creation stories. However, what sets this novel apart is its somber clarity, which allows readers to see the stark realities of the Trojan War and the women who were caught in its midst.

Through her vivid and evocative prose, Barker brings the women of Troy to life, capturing their strengths, weaknesses, and resilience in a way that is both powerful and poignant. The novel is ambitious in scope, covering a vast period of history and exploring the complex relationships between the Greeks, Trojans, and the women who were caught in the middle. Barker's portrayal of the women is nuanced and multifaceted, showing them as complex individuals with their own desires, dreams, and tragedies.

"The Women of Troy" is a testament to Pat Barker's talent as a writer and her ability to reimagine classical myths for a modern audience. It is a novel that will resonate with readers of all ages and backgrounds, offering a fresh perspective on one of history's most iconic stories. Whether you are a fan of historical fiction, feminist literature, or simply seeking a compelling and thought-provoking read, "The Women of Troy" is a must-read.

Weight: 238g
Dimension: 130 x 197 x 33 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780241988336