
Publication Date: April 1, 2015
Lake Union Publishing
Formats: eBook, Paperback
ISBN-10: 1477821384Genre: Historical Fiction
Long before she ran away with Paris to Troy, Helen of Sparta was haunted by nightmares of a burning city under siege. These dreams foretold impending war—a war that only Helen has the power to avert. To do so, she must defy her family and betray her betrothed by fleeing the palace in the dead of night. In need of protection, she finds shelter and comfort in the arms of Theseus, son of Poseidon. With Theseus at her side, she believes she can escape her destiny. But at every turn, new dangers—violence, betrayal, extortion, threat of war—thwart Helen’s plans and bar her path. Still, she refuses to bend to the will of the gods.
A new take on an ancient myth, Helen of Sparta is the story of one woman determined to decide her own fate.
Buy the Book
Amazon
Barnes & Noble
Review:
Helen of Sparta carries a heavy weight on her shoulders. She is princess to Sparta, but also the daughter of Zeus. Helen is resented by her mother for how she was conceived; she is also bound to inherit the throne. Helen’s gifts from Zeus not only granted her beauty, but dreams that foresee the future. In a recurring nightmare, she envisions Sparta in flames and the death of her family when she is married to a childhood friend. Determined to escape her fate, Helen makes plans to escape to Athens with King Theseus, son of Poseidon. Finally feeling some freedom, the gods continue to punish Helen for her actions; however, Helen still continues to forge her own path.
Helen of Sparta offers a fresh take on Greek mythology and the Trojan War from Helen’s point of view. I loved the mix of historical fiction and mythology. I was captivated by Helen’s fiery spirit and determination right from the beginning and found myself immersed in her story. She does not play a damsel, but is the driver of her own destiny. Helen’s world is brought to light with the magic of the gods and the brutality of the history. Focusing on Helen’s life when she was younger, I got to know her character very well as she grew, as well as Theseus. Theseus is created in a heroic and sympathetic light. Overall, Helen's story is packed with great characters, a rollercoaster of emotions and an intense plot. With a rather abrupt ending, I am hoping to read more in the next book.
This book was received for free in return for an honest review.

Amalia Carosella graduated from the University of North Dakota with a bachelors degree in Classical Studies and English. An avid reader and former bookseller, she writes about old heroes and older gods. She lives with her husband in upstate New York and dreams of the day she will own goats (and maybe even a horse, too). For more information, visit her blog at www.amaliacarosella.com. She also writes fantasy and paranormal romance as Amalia Dillin.
You can also connect with Amalia on Facebook, Goodreads, and Twitter here and here.