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.

Starred review from November 15, 2016

Making her fiction debut, Hauser has written a fresh reinterpretation of the story of the Trojan War and the fall of Troy. Alternating among the perspectives of the Trojans, the Greeks, and the gods, Hauser follows the events leading up to the climactic destruction of one of the greatest cities of the ancient world. Although she gives a nod to the familiar heroes of Homer's epic Illiad, the author concentrates on the lesser-known Trojan women caught up in the conflict--Krisayis, the 15-year-old daughter of the high priest, who is dedicated to a life of service to the gods but in love with Prince Troilus, and doomed Briseis, princess of Pedasus. Other elements found in the classic tale--ferocious battles, behind-the-throne machinations, seduction, love, and loss--are also here. Hauser's characters are brave, willful, sometimes foolish, impulsive, and utterly relatable, and her portrayal of the manipulative, capricious gods is particularly wonderful. VERDICT Extensively researched and based on many of the minor characters of Homer's great work, this quick-paced, enthralling retelling will attract readers who loved Madeline Miller's The Song of Achilles.--Jane Henriksen Baird, Anchorage P.L., AK

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