Clytemnestra's Bind is a bold and brutal first-person retelling that redefines her story, unveiling the untold depths of her soul and the legacy she forged as a mother, wife, and queen.
Queen Clytemnestra's world shatters when Agamemnon, a rival to the throne of Mycenae, storms her palace, destroys her family and claims not only the throne but Clytemnestra herself. Tormented by her loss, she vows to do all she can to protect the children born from her unhappy marriage to him. But when her husband casts his ruthless gaze towards the wealthy citadel of Troy, his ambitions threaten to once more destroy the family Clytemnestra loves.
From one of Greek mythology's most reviled characters-a woman who challenged the absolute power of men-comes this fiery tale of power, family rivalry and a mother's burning love.
Perfect for readers of Greek mythology, and fans of Costanza Casati's Clytemnestra, Madeline Miller's Circe, and Jennifer Saint's Elektra.
About the Author :
Susan C Wilson has a degree in journalism from Edinburgh Napier University and a diploma in classical studies from the Open University. She has worked in such environments as the Scottish Courts and the Scottish Parliament. As a writer she loves to explore what makes us human: the eternal motivations, desires and instincts that cross time and place. She also aims to make ancient stories resonate with a modern audience, through historical fiction and contemporary retellings. Her debut novel, Clytemnestra's Bind, was longlisted pre-publication for the Mslexia Novel Competition in 2019.
Review :
"Clytemnestra's Bind is a bold and brave retelling that gives voice to Clytemnestra as she challenges the men that hold power. A compelling and evocative book that had me gripped from the first word." —Elizabeth Lee, author of Cunning Women\
"Take a bow, Susan C Wilson. Brilliant, razor-sharp debut. One of the most evocative retellings I've had the privilege to read." —Mark Knowles, author of Jason\
"This penetrating and wise retelling of a Greek Myth is full of the strength, vitality, and perseverance of women." —LoveReading UK, Liz Robinson
"*Clytemnestra's Bind *is bold, brilliant and brutal. Rich with psychological insight, hypnotic characters and thrilling dialogue, Wilson's writing recalls the great Mary Renault. Her re-imagining of ancient rites and religion is masterful: in her hands the beliefs and practices of Bronze Age Mycenae are both alien to us, yet thoroughly convincing and deeply rooted in the historical possibilities of the era. I was completely captivated by Wilson's propulsive, visceral storytelling and the unique horror of her haunting heroine's predicament. I cannot wait for the next instalment!" —Nikki Marmery, author of *Lilith *
"This relentlessly savage novel is powerfully written. Brutality is unflinchingly and convincingly described...it makes us want more" —Historical Novel Society
"stands independently and memorably amongst the influx of Greek Mythology retellings...providing a fresh voice to the injustices the women of this time experiences." —Reader Review
"...tragic, fierce and compelling. The characters were very well drawn, the pace was great, and I could not put the book down. This book has a worthy place in the pantheon of excellent Greek stories." —Reader Review
"Visceral at times, yet beautiful, the author's descriptive prose brings alive the pain of Clytemnestra's trauma, which is often overlooked." —Reader Review
"I loved everything about this book so much!" —Reader Review
"A lyrical and captivating retelling of the story of the cursed House of Atreus. The writing is spectacular; vivid and poetic." —Reader Review
"It had me hooked from the beginning." —Reader Review
"I loved Clytemnestra's Bind. Susan C Wilson brings raw emotion to every page. She portrays Clytemnestra with all the compassion, determination and strength that she deserved. A truly heart-wrenching read." —Hannah Lynn, author of Athena's Child
"Greek mythology meets Game of Thrones in this well-researched and well-written retelling"—Laura Shepperson, author of The Heroines
"(Wilson's) characterizations of Clytemnestra’s children (are) true to their mythological origin story and has a realistic and unique relationship with their mother; this becomes the most interesting and well-developed part of (her) novel.—Library Journal
