Hera by Jennifer Saint

Publisher: WildfireBooks

Publication Date: 23 May 2024

⸻

Synopsis

In Hera, Jennifer Saint reimagines the life of the Queen of the Gods, offering a fresh perspective on a figure often portrayed as the jealous wife or wicked stepmother. The novel follows Hera, daughter of the Titan Cronus, who aids her brother Zeus in overthrowing their tyrannical father. As they establish their reign on Mount Olympus,

Hera begins to see that Zeus may be just as ruthless and cruel as the father they betrayed. Born to rule, Hera must decide whether to perpetuate the cycle of violence or forge a better world.

This retelling captures the many sides of Hera—vengeful when necessary, compassionate, and, most importantly, an all-powerful queen among the gods.

My Thoughts

Jennifer Saint. What a legend you are.

🍃

I’ve absolutely loved all of her books so far, and Hera did not disappoint. Unlike with her previous stories, I mixed things up this time by reading the physical copy and listening to the audiobook simultaneously, and both experiences were brilliant, every page, every word, completely drew me in.

🍃

What really stood out to me in Hera was how beautifully all of the Olympian gods were woven throughout the story. From start to finish, each god played their part in shaping Hera’s journey, and it never felt forced or overwhelming. Instead, it gave the entire book this rich, mythological depth that kept me hooked. Jennifer doesn’t just tell you a story, she builds a world you can walk into. And I would be lying if I wasn’t angry alongside her on many occasions!!

🍃

Hera herself is such a compelling character in this retelling. Her voice, her power, her pain, all of it felt so real and so layered. I loved seeing her portrayed not just as the jealous wife of Zeus, but as a goddess with her own complex emotions, thoughts and strengths.

And that ending!

I’ve read quite a few mythology stories, but I’ve never come across a conclusion like this one. The way she brought the story to a close was seamless and deeply satisfying. It tied everything together in such a thoughtful, emotional way. Not just at a point, or a conclusion, but through time and change, all enter woven together.

If you love Greek mythology or just beautifully told stories about powerful women, Hera is a must-read. Jennifer Saint continues to impress me with her ability to breathe new life into ancient tales, and I already can’t wait to see what she writes next.

🍃

Hera is a triumph in mythological retelling, breathing new life into a character long misunderstood. Jennifer Saint’s ability to humanize the divine, combined with her evocative prose and intricate plotting, makes this a must-read for fans of Greek mythology and strong female narratives. Whether you’re new to Saint’s work or a longtime admirer, Hera promises a compelling and unforgettable journey through the heart of Olympus.

#qotd - here are some words to describe Hera…

• Regal

• Powerful

• Vengeful

• Divine

• Unyielding

• Majestic

• Fierce

• Commanding

• Mythic

• Reborn

Which ones do you think describe her best??