HAND OF FIRE
A Novel of Briseis and The Trojan War
by
Judith Starkston
Fireship Press; September 10, 2014
Paperback and ebook, 301 pages
Historical Fiction, Fantasy, Mythology
About the book
The Trojan War threatens Troy’s allies and the Greek supply raids spread. A young healing priestess, designated as future queen, must defend her city against both divine anger and invading Greeks. She finds strength in visions of a handsome warrior god. Will that be enough when the half-immortal Achilles attacks? Hand of Fire, a tale of resilience and hope, blends history and legend in the untold story of Achilles’s famous captive, Briseis.
Advance praise
“But what is the difference between a good historical novel and a brilliant one?
I suggest you read Judith Starkston’s Hand of Fire and you’ll discover the answer." -- Helen Hollick, Historical Novels Review Editor and author of Forever Queen
I suggest you read Judith Starkston’s Hand of Fire and you’ll discover the answer." -- Helen Hollick, Historical Novels Review Editor and author of Forever Queen
"In Hand of Fire, Starkston's careful research brings ancient Greece and Troy to life with passion and grace. This haunting and insightful novel makes you ache for a mortal woman, Briseis, in love with a half-god, Achilles, as she fights to make her own destiny in a world of capricious gods and warriors. I devoured this page-turning escape from the modern world!" – Rebecca Cantrell, New York Times bestselling author of The World Beneath
“Suspenseful, tragic, surprising and sexy” –Nancy Bilyeau, author of The Chalice
"Briseis steps out from the handful of lines she gets in Homer's epic, and fearlessly tells her own story as healer, war prize, and partner to the famous Achilles –here a godlike hero who manages to be all too human. Recommended!"–Kate Quinn, author of Empress of the Seven Hills
“In her portrayal of Briseis, Judith Starkston has cast a bright light on one of the Iliad's most intriguing sub-plots. With her fast-paced story, three-dimensional characters, and fascinating cultural details, Starkston has given historical fiction fans a tale to remember.” –Priscilla Royal, author of Covenant with Hell
“Starkston breathes new life into an age-old tale in this masterful retelling of the Iliad. The reader experiences the terror, bravery and heartbreak of Briseis who now takes center stage in one of the most famous love triangles of all time.” –Elisabeth Storrs, author of The Golden Dice
About the author
Judith Starkston writes historical fiction and mysteries set in Troy and the Hittite Empire. Ms. Starkston is a classicist (B.A. University of California, Santa Cruz, M.A. Cornell University) who taught high school English, Latin and humanities. She and her husband have two grown children and live in Arizona with their golden retriever Socrates. Hand of Fire is her debut novel.
Find an excerpt, Q&A, book reviews, ancient recipes, historical background as well as on-going information about the historical fiction community on Starkston’s website www.JudithStarkston.com
Visit on Goodreads Hand of Fire
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