For the Most Beautiful

November 7, 2016
Instead of focusing exclusively on the kings, princes, and gods who usually take the spotlight in Greek myth and history, Hauser turns the reader’s attention to the women driving the story behind the scenes in this consuming debut novel, the first installment of the Golden Apple Trilogy. Newly married princess Briseis and reluctant priestess-to-be Krisayis are trying to navigate life and love in a society that gives them little agency when they find themselves in the midst of bloody battles, political prophesies, and treacherous gods after the onset of the Trojan War. In addition to the meddling gods who toy with their fortunes from the clouds, the formidable heroines must deal with both sides of the epic clash of kingdoms after being captured by—and eventually escaping—the Greek hero Achilles. Hauser’s diverting take on this timeless tale delivers romance, action, and intrigue, with a certain emphasis on the romance. At times the prose explodes with floral extravagance, and the descriptions go to great lengths to ensure the reader knows how beautiful all the women are. But Hauser saves the day with well-paced plotting and engrossing character arcs. Briseis and Krisayis may not be (almost) invulnerable like Achilles, or as powerful as Zeus, but their bravery is more than enough for a fun and absorbing read.