The Heir of Venus

Shepperson weaves an enthralling narrative written from the perspective of the women of the Aeneid. Intricate and poetic, The Heir of Venus is a thought-provoking meditation on the conflict between love and destiny, not to mention the silent sacrifices necessary to put a great man on the throne. -- Luna McNamara, author of PSYCHE AND EROS The Heir of Venus is a wonderful read: a sweeping story and gripping narrative, with such thoughtful characterisation. I thoroughly enjoyed it. -- ROSIE ANDREWS, author of THE LEVIATHAN An immensely stylish and compelling retelling of the Aeneid . . . an unflinching and poignant re-examination of the ancient world, told in elegant prose. -- NAOMI KELSEY, author of THE BURNINGS While the story of the demigod Aeneas is the thread which binds them, the primary perspectives and concerns are those of his three all-too-human wives. Once again Shepperson breathes life into the heroines of Greek myth, in a fascinating re-imagining of their roles as 'prizes, possessions and casualties'. -- SARAH BURTON, author of THE STRANGE ADVENTURES OF H Like Shepperson's previous novel, The Heir of Venus focuses firmly on the heroines. The women who hover in the background of the Aeneid take centre stage in this engaging and unique retelling. A thoughtful, intelligent read. -- SUSAN C WILSON, author of CLYTEMNESTRA'S BIND Intense and emotional, The Heir of Venus gives voice to the women connected to Aeneas's story, raising up characters who have long deserved more of the spotlight. From Creusa and Lavinia to Dido, female perspectives shape this complex, blended narrative. Shepperson has crafted a feminist tale of power and vulnerability, showing the tragedy of war alongside the enduring power of love in its many forms - tender, passionate, desperate -- Elyse John, author of ORPHIA AND EURYDICIUS