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Heroes of the Trojan War #1
The Princess of Sparta
The true story behind the epic love that sparked the Trojan War and has captivated the world for 3,000 years…
Helen of Troy, arguably the most infamous woman in ancient history, was not the seductress of Homer’s poems. Her humble story began as a Princess of Sparta; honorable, loyal, with promise to become a powerful queen. Her lauded beauty was more curse than blessing, inciting lust and jealousy in the greedy kings who would make her their prize. Given in marriage to Menelaus of Mycenae, an abusive husband who neither wants nor needs her, she clings to a prophecy made to her about a great destiny, and even greater love.
That destiny awaits her in Paris, a noble prince of Troy, whose reputation for fairness and fortitude precedes him as an Ambassador. Unjustly cursed at birth by a dark omen claiming he will cause the destruction of Troy, Paris is a haunted figure. This omen overshadows his good deeds, making him an object of ridicule amongst the Trojan nobility, and compelling his own mother to try to kill him as a babe. He is a man who has never known love.
Until the day the Fates intervene and Paris travels to Mycenae as an Ambassador of Troy. He meets Helen, and two souls linked by common destiny and purpose are reunited. Their love becomes legend, provoking the greatest war of ancient history, shaking the foundations of the world, and paving the way for the rise of Greece and Rome.
See how their epic love began in Volume 1 of the 10 part series, Heroes of the Trojan War.
Helen of Troy, arguably the most infamous woman in ancient history, was not the seductress of Homer’s poems. Her humble story began as a Princess of Sparta; honorable, loyal, with promise to become a powerful queen. Her lauded beauty was more curse than blessing, inciting lust and jealousy in the greedy kings who would make her their prize. Given in marriage to Menelaus of Mycenae, an abusive husband who neither wants nor needs her, she clings to a prophecy made to her about a great destiny, and even greater love.
That destiny awaits her in Paris, a noble prince of Troy, whose reputation for fairness and fortitude precedes him as an Ambassador. Unjustly cursed at birth by a dark omen claiming he will cause the destruction of Troy, Paris is a haunted figure. This omen overshadows his good deeds, making him an object of ridicule amongst the Trojan nobility, and compelling his own mother to try to kill him as a babe. He is a man who has never known love.
Until the day the Fates intervene and Paris travels to Mycenae as an Ambassador of Troy. He meets Helen, and two souls linked by common destiny and purpose are reunited. Their love becomes legend, provoking the greatest war of ancient history, shaking the foundations of the world, and paving the way for the rise of Greece and Rome.
See how their epic love began in Volume 1 of the 10 part series, Heroes of the Trojan War.
303 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 13, 2014
38 people are currently reading
893 people want to read
About the author
Aria Cunningham
3 books24 followersInspired at an early age by the adventures of Indiana Jones, Aria Cunningham studied marine archaeology at UC Berkeley. In 2004, she set forth to create her own adventures and helped excavate a Roman palace from 200 AD at Tel Dor, Israel.
Continuing her old world education, she travelled the expansive fjords of Norway, castle hopped from Wales to the Rhineland, and explored the funeral complexes along the Egyptian Nile. She is an avid scuba diver who has navigated shipwrecks on the ocean floor, the immense kelp forests off the Channel Islands, and the legendary Cenote caverns of the Yucatan.
Aria has a Master’s degree in the Cinematic Arts from USC and currently lives off the coast of Southern California.
Continuing her old world education, she travelled the expansive fjords of Norway, castle hopped from Wales to the Rhineland, and explored the funeral complexes along the Egyptian Nile. She is an avid scuba diver who has navigated shipwrecks on the ocean floor, the immense kelp forests off the Channel Islands, and the legendary Cenote caverns of the Yucatan.
Aria has a Master’s degree in the Cinematic Arts from USC and currently lives off the coast of Southern California.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
April 14, 2014
It’s fair to say I’ve read a few books about the Trojan War in my time. Aside from the original Iliad and Odyssey, there's Glyn Iliffe’s adventure series, David Gemmell’s fantasy spun version, Ben Bova’s The Hittite, Lindsay Clarke’s quirky duology, Margaret George’s sweeping epic Helen of Troy, and Henry Treece’s hidden gem Electra, to barely scratch the surface. I also have a great interest in the time period in which the Trojan War is set, minoring in Bronze Age Greece. So I fancy myself reasonably familiar with the setting of the Trojan War as well as the fictional myth itself. There are a lot of different interpretations out there, and the Trojan War has been done to death even more than the Tudors. So is The Princess of Sparta a successful offering amongst the legions of Troy novels? Sadly, no.
I have to begin with the writing style. It was competent, but it felt basic and simple, all in all fairly pedestrian. So much so that I actually thought the book must have been written for a Young Adult audience. However it quickly became apparent from the explicit scenes in the book (more on that later) that The Princess of Sparta is not intended for a Young Adult readership. Half the time I felt like I was reading a Young Adult novel and half the time I felt I was reading a Harlequin romance. Don’t get me wrong, the writing wasn’t terrible. There were a few lovely descriptions that I really liked, for example; “Light flooded in from a dozen balconies evenly spaced down the lengthy marble hall. Their long curtains of lavender and rose fluttered from the ocean breeze”, and; “The western steppes would be covered in lilac now. And Tyndareus would soon be sending the young recruits into the wilds to hunt their first blood”, and; “The mist lifted as they oared further out to sea. A dazzling field of stars filled the sky, their brilliant light reflecting back from the waters beneath them. Their ship cut through those waters as though navigating the cosmos itself. Troy, and their unknown future, lay before them in the east”. Unfortunately other than a few striking moments, the writing didn’t grab me.
The same rang true for the character creation. The characters too felt like they belonged in a Young Adult novel; thinly sketched, simplistic, from the goodies and baddies school of Disney storytelling. Helen and Paris, our main characters, are given some depth as they struggle with their own curses, and Clytemnestra was given some great ambiguity, at least for most of the novel, and I loved that Aethra, who is largely a background character, gets a voice towards the end and we are reminded that she too is a human being with her own life. However, they didn’t have enough depth, their humanity wasn’t explored enough, and certain characters are disappointingly one note; Tyndareus the Caring and Concerned Father, Glaucus the Male Buddy, Menelaus the Bitter Younger Brother, Agamemnon the Greedy Brutal Tyrant. Why should I care about these characters when other authors have written about them with so much more finesse and poignancy and human depth?
Embarrassingly, the book is sorely in need of proof-reading. Men “prove their meddle” instead of their mettle, Odysseus the “Ithakian” not Ithakan is “renown for” his cunning not renowned for it, “The Hellas would be one step closer to unification” instead of the Hellenes, Clytemnestra’s daughter is “Iphenigia” when she should be Iphigenaia, Glaucus comes out of a “revere” instead of a reverie, repeatedly “reigns” are written where it should be reins, “affect” where it should be effect, and Clytemnestra is in danger of “loosing” instead of losing Helen. The characters even spout such dialogue as; “I thought I should do it proper”, “How did you learn to dance so quick”, “if you kill me you’re dreams of empire will bleed out with me”, and “You’re life is your own.”
Painful, just painful. And the repeated instances of incorrect spelling and grammar seem to suggest that typos are not the culprit here. An author needs to have a command of the language they are writing in. I’ll let the Americanisms slide – whilst it was jarring for me to hear that a character “could care less” obviously it won't be for many readers.
Going back to the explicit scenes in the book, I can appreciate a good sex scene in a book, but the problem here is the way it’s written. Mills and Boon levels of purple prose just render every explicit scene at once laughably absurd and cringingly cheesy. Paris gets a “fire in his loins”, the “heat from[Helen’s] mound rolled over his palm”, “Twin breasts, perky with rosebud nipples, stood erect. Her skin was the color of fresh milk, and a soft mound of tawny hair hid her sacred flower”. But wait, there’s more for you to enjoy, such as Helen’s “soft lips of her sacred font, probing deeper into her hard nub” and “the soft folds of her silken canal perfectly molded to his flesh”. Don’t leave yet, you’ll miss the twincest! “[Clytemnestra] shoved Helen’s legs apart, her fingers sliding into her twin’s wet crevice… [Clytemnestra] pressed her mouth to Helen’s cleft, the folds of her rosebud moist and hot. This was hers, too. She plunged her tongue against the little flab of flesh”. The one that takes the biscuit though is; “his phallus stretched her womb”.
(WARNING! Do NOT try this, folks! The cervix blocks entrance into the womb and only dilates during childbirth. Any phalluses stretching wombs would be EXTREMELY PAINFUL!) Okay, my advice on writing a good sex scene? There are two options, going down the tasteful route and describing the passion without focusing too much the nitty gritty of “swords of flesh stabbing” various orifices or possibly ‘fading out’ at that point, or you can go all out explicit, in which case BE explicit, use the words normal people use for these things and don’t try and shield it behind euphemisms and flowery prose of “rosebuds” and “sacred flowers” and “swords of flesh” or “nubs”, “folds”, “flabs”, “fonts”, “canals”, “mounds”, or any other nonsense.
The final point that brought this book down was the lack of historical accuracy. “Oh, Isis! You’re a trained historian and archaeologist! We all know you pore over historical inaccuracies that the rest of us wouldn’t notice!” Maybe so, fellow GoodReaders, maybe so. After all, would you notice something was up with Helen bringing in Sparta’s orange harvest? (Unknown in Europe until the Medieval era). Or off the cuff asides mentioning Vulcano and terra incognito? (Roman terms). You might not even bat an eyelid at the “classical cut chiton pinned on her left shoulder with an eagle-headed fibula”. (The dress of classical Greece circa 500 BCE, some 600 years or so after the end of the Bronze Age). How about the hummingbird making an appearance? Funny how a bird restricted to the Americas should make it to Bronze Age Greece.
How about this one: Helen and the royal court are assembling on a chilly morning for a hunt. What better to refresh them than “A maid scurried between the courtiers offering steaming cups of hot tea. Helen took a cup, holding the warm crockery with both hands.” Really – tea?! As in the drink from China that was unknown in Europe until the 16th century?
Why not have Helen just pull out her iPhone and activate her Ancient Hunting app complete with GPS tracking?! It’s glaringly obvious that the author does not know the time period she’s writing about that well – Paris espouses anachronistic ideals about the liberties of common folk and much of the scenery and mannerisms in the novel describe classical Greece more than Bronze Age Greece – but what's truly dire about howlers like having tea, oranges, and hummingbirds in your Trojan War novel is that it takes all of two clicks on Wikipedia to check. It’s a pity when the author has included certain elements, such as the tholoi tombs of the Mycenaeans and their Cyclopean architecture, but it’s like key icons of Mycenaean culture from text books have been plopped down, without any real understanding or in depth research, as is evidenced by the huge historical blunders and the classical era attitudes given to the characters. Seriously, when getting it right is as easy as two clicks; FOR SHAME.
What makes this even more surprising is the author's note and author's biography at the end: "As an archaeologist” The author's an archaeologist?!
This archaeologist is done.
2 out of 10
P.S. If folks want an alternative recommendation to a great and romantic novel with Helen of Troy as the main character, I recommend Helen of Troy . For a non-fiction study of Helen, I recommend Helen of Troy Goddess Princess Whore .
April 29, 2014
Summary Via Goodreads.com:
"Helen of Troy, arguably the most infamous woman in ancient history, was not the seductress of Homer s poems. Her humble story began as a Princess of Sparta; honorable, loyal, with promise to become a powerful queen. Her lauded beauty was more curse than blessing, inciting lust and jealousy in the greedy kings who would make her their prize. Given in marriage to Menelaus of Mycenae, an abusive husband who neither wants nor needs her, she clings to a prophecy made to her about a great destiny, and even greater love.
That destiny awaits her in Paris, a noble prince of Troy, whose reputation for fairness and fortitude precedes him as an Ambassador. Unjustly cursed at birth by a dark omen claiming he will cause the destruction of Troy, Paris is a haunted figure. This omen overshadows his good deeds, making him an object of ridicule amongst the Trojan nobility, and compelling his own mother to try to kill him as a babe. He is a man who has never known love.
Until the day the Fates intervene and Paris travels to Mycenae as an Ambassador of Troy. He meets Helen, and the two souls linked by common destiny and purpose are reunited. Their love becomes legend, provoking the greatest war of ancient history, shaking the foundations of the world, and paving the way for the rise of Greece and Rome."
My Review:
The summary from Goodreads was very well done, so I am going to bypass my "normal" restating of the summary for this book and just use theirs, as seen above.
I am going to start out saying this...in all honesty I am not a big fan of historical reads, nor do I usually agree to read and review them. However, Helen of Troy made me decide I would give this read a shot, when I was asked if I would read the ARC. This just seemed like a twist to a well known story. The story started a bit rocky for me, I know it got glowing reviews from others, but I just wasn't hooked right away like so many were. After a couple chapters, however, I did become engaged in the story and wanted to read on. It was shocking to me that I would even halfway enjoy a book like this, but I actually did enjoy it. I liked the love angle of it and the war of ancient history. The characters were easy to come to like or hate, depending on which ones they were. They were also very well developed and "played out" in this book for who they were. The emotions of Helen, for example, were very easy to relate to and feel as a reader. My enjoyment came from these wonderful characters, the romance, and the adventure of it all. The plot was full of historical content, which was interesting even to a history non-lover like me. It was written in such a way that I knew it had the historical background and information, but also made me want to read on because of the things going on in the book with the characters and the situations they were in throughout the book. I just had to continue reading on to see what happened, even though I had a very good idea what would eventually happen. The details in this book were absolutely amazing and were mind blowing to me, yup even the historical ones. The images in my head as I read were very vivid and I also found myself learning more about the history of it all. The typical "forbidden love" story this was not, it was so much more than that. If I can admit to liking this book, it is worth the read for others. Even if you are not a history buff or historical fiction lover, it is worth a shot to read. You, like myself, may be surprised to find that you do like this story and do want to read the book in one sitting. Great writing by a great new to me author! I highly recommend you read this book.
4/5 Stars!
"Helen of Troy, arguably the most infamous woman in ancient history, was not the seductress of Homer s poems. Her humble story began as a Princess of Sparta; honorable, loyal, with promise to become a powerful queen. Her lauded beauty was more curse than blessing, inciting lust and jealousy in the greedy kings who would make her their prize. Given in marriage to Menelaus of Mycenae, an abusive husband who neither wants nor needs her, she clings to a prophecy made to her about a great destiny, and even greater love.
That destiny awaits her in Paris, a noble prince of Troy, whose reputation for fairness and fortitude precedes him as an Ambassador. Unjustly cursed at birth by a dark omen claiming he will cause the destruction of Troy, Paris is a haunted figure. This omen overshadows his good deeds, making him an object of ridicule amongst the Trojan nobility, and compelling his own mother to try to kill him as a babe. He is a man who has never known love.
Until the day the Fates intervene and Paris travels to Mycenae as an Ambassador of Troy. He meets Helen, and the two souls linked by common destiny and purpose are reunited. Their love becomes legend, provoking the greatest war of ancient history, shaking the foundations of the world, and paving the way for the rise of Greece and Rome."
My Review:
The summary from Goodreads was very well done, so I am going to bypass my "normal" restating of the summary for this book and just use theirs, as seen above.
I am going to start out saying this...in all honesty I am not a big fan of historical reads, nor do I usually agree to read and review them. However, Helen of Troy made me decide I would give this read a shot, when I was asked if I would read the ARC. This just seemed like a twist to a well known story. The story started a bit rocky for me, I know it got glowing reviews from others, but I just wasn't hooked right away like so many were. After a couple chapters, however, I did become engaged in the story and wanted to read on. It was shocking to me that I would even halfway enjoy a book like this, but I actually did enjoy it. I liked the love angle of it and the war of ancient history. The characters were easy to come to like or hate, depending on which ones they were. They were also very well developed and "played out" in this book for who they were. The emotions of Helen, for example, were very easy to relate to and feel as a reader. My enjoyment came from these wonderful characters, the romance, and the adventure of it all. The plot was full of historical content, which was interesting even to a history non-lover like me. It was written in such a way that I knew it had the historical background and information, but also made me want to read on because of the things going on in the book with the characters and the situations they were in throughout the book. I just had to continue reading on to see what happened, even though I had a very good idea what would eventually happen. The details in this book were absolutely amazing and were mind blowing to me, yup even the historical ones. The images in my head as I read were very vivid and I also found myself learning more about the history of it all. The typical "forbidden love" story this was not, it was so much more than that. If I can admit to liking this book, it is worth the read for others. Even if you are not a history buff or historical fiction lover, it is worth a shot to read. You, like myself, may be surprised to find that you do like this story and do want to read the book in one sitting. Great writing by a great new to me author! I highly recommend you read this book.
4/5 Stars!
April 22, 2014
Everyone knows the story of Helen of Troy and her prince, Paris. Their love story has become legend and their names are inextricably linked, like Romeo and Juliet and all the other tragic lovers of the past. I have to admit that I never really had a lot of compassion for Helen and Paris. Helen was always the seductress who used her beauty as a weapon. Paris was the spoiled prince who was content to sit back and let others fight his battles. Not exactly people who inspire a lot of compassion. That is until I read the version of their story written by Aria Cunningham.
While Aria’s narrative is faithful to the historical events, she crafts the characters of Helen and Paris in a way that is so different from any other that I have encountered. Helen is a humble princess of Sparta, destined to become a great queen. As men from all over come to seek her hand in marriage, Helen faces the most important decision of her life. This Helen is honorable, loyal, and her beauty is more of a curse than a blessing. I instantly connected with her and felt compassion for her situation. Especially after she marries Menelaus, who is a complete brute, and must suffer the carnal desire her sister’s husband, Agamemnon. Her only solace is the promise from Aphrodite of a great love.
Paris is not the spoiled prince. He is a noble prince of Troy, and a respected ambassador, but he is also a cursed man. A dark omen cursed his birth, claiming that he would lead to the destruction of Troy, leading his own mother to try and kill him. Scorned by this family and the other Trojan nobles, Paris has spent his life traveling as an ambassador, always far from home and never knowing love. The guilt he feels because of this curse and the small kindness his father, Priam, has shown him in preventing his death, drives his desire to bring honor to Troy. When his father sends him to deliver a message to Agamemnon about the strength of Troy, it is with the promise that Paris might finally be allowed to remain in Troy upon his return. Again, Aria’s portrayal of Paris makes him a much more sympathetic character. He is everything a great prince should be - handsome, brave, loyal - and his desire to overcome his fate is commendable.
Because they are such likable characters, it makes the tragedy of their situation that much greater. These two really are soul mates. Watching them try to fight their fate and feel trapped by their situations in life, made for all the angsty goodness that is a well written romance novel. The passion between these lovers makes for some steamy, but tastefully done love scenes. I found myself completely lost in their story, and even though I know the outcome, I can't help myself from hoping that maybe this time there could be a different ending for Helen and Paris.
I have few criticisms of this novel, and fans of historical romances will be pleased. There were times when Aria used a more modern dialect that threw me out of the world of the story for a moment. For example, Paris’s thought upon seeing Helen for the first time is, “Oh, f*#$ me.” While appropriate to the situation, not so appropriate for the time period. Aria did such a good job with making sure the language she used fit within the context of the time period, that when there was a change in diction, it was quite obvious and jarring. It doesn't happen often, and could have been done for emphasis. When it did happen, for me, it was like the mental equivalent of a tree root one catches their foot on while walking down the street. It caused me to stumble, but I was quickly able to regain my balance and jump back into the story.
My only other criticism is the somewhat cheesy cover. I know that you should never judge a book by its cover, but with so many options available, a good cover goes a long way. A good cover is nothing if there isn't any substance to back it up, but a good cover makes me more likely to pick a book up and read the synopsis, increasing its chances that I will adopt it and take it home. I have to say that if I saw Princess of Sparta in a bookstore and knew nothing about it, I would have most likely passed it by. The cover is just too reminiscent of the cookie cutter romance novels that you can buy for a dime a dozen at Goodwill. And that would be a shame, because despite its cover, this book is worth your time.
The Princess of Sparta only gives us part of the story, and it’s sequel, Princess of Betrayal, is scheduled for release in Fall, 2014. I will be eagerly awaiting its release.
For more information on the author, Aria Cunningham, and her novels, check out her website at http://www.ariacunningham.com/.
**Note: I received a free ARC in exchange for my honest review.
While Aria’s narrative is faithful to the historical events, she crafts the characters of Helen and Paris in a way that is so different from any other that I have encountered. Helen is a humble princess of Sparta, destined to become a great queen. As men from all over come to seek her hand in marriage, Helen faces the most important decision of her life. This Helen is honorable, loyal, and her beauty is more of a curse than a blessing. I instantly connected with her and felt compassion for her situation. Especially after she marries Menelaus, who is a complete brute, and must suffer the carnal desire her sister’s husband, Agamemnon. Her only solace is the promise from Aphrodite of a great love.
Paris is not the spoiled prince. He is a noble prince of Troy, and a respected ambassador, but he is also a cursed man. A dark omen cursed his birth, claiming that he would lead to the destruction of Troy, leading his own mother to try and kill him. Scorned by this family and the other Trojan nobles, Paris has spent his life traveling as an ambassador, always far from home and never knowing love. The guilt he feels because of this curse and the small kindness his father, Priam, has shown him in preventing his death, drives his desire to bring honor to Troy. When his father sends him to deliver a message to Agamemnon about the strength of Troy, it is with the promise that Paris might finally be allowed to remain in Troy upon his return. Again, Aria’s portrayal of Paris makes him a much more sympathetic character. He is everything a great prince should be - handsome, brave, loyal - and his desire to overcome his fate is commendable.
Because they are such likable characters, it makes the tragedy of their situation that much greater. These two really are soul mates. Watching them try to fight their fate and feel trapped by their situations in life, made for all the angsty goodness that is a well written romance novel. The passion between these lovers makes for some steamy, but tastefully done love scenes. I found myself completely lost in their story, and even though I know the outcome, I can't help myself from hoping that maybe this time there could be a different ending for Helen and Paris.
I have few criticisms of this novel, and fans of historical romances will be pleased. There were times when Aria used a more modern dialect that threw me out of the world of the story for a moment. For example, Paris’s thought upon seeing Helen for the first time is, “Oh, f*#$ me.” While appropriate to the situation, not so appropriate for the time period. Aria did such a good job with making sure the language she used fit within the context of the time period, that when there was a change in diction, it was quite obvious and jarring. It doesn't happen often, and could have been done for emphasis. When it did happen, for me, it was like the mental equivalent of a tree root one catches their foot on while walking down the street. It caused me to stumble, but I was quickly able to regain my balance and jump back into the story.
My only other criticism is the somewhat cheesy cover. I know that you should never judge a book by its cover, but with so many options available, a good cover goes a long way. A good cover is nothing if there isn't any substance to back it up, but a good cover makes me more likely to pick a book up and read the synopsis, increasing its chances that I will adopt it and take it home. I have to say that if I saw Princess of Sparta in a bookstore and knew nothing about it, I would have most likely passed it by. The cover is just too reminiscent of the cookie cutter romance novels that you can buy for a dime a dozen at Goodwill. And that would be a shame, because despite its cover, this book is worth your time.
The Princess of Sparta only gives us part of the story, and it’s sequel, Princess of Betrayal, is scheduled for release in Fall, 2014. I will be eagerly awaiting its release.
For more information on the author, Aria Cunningham, and her novels, check out her website at http://www.ariacunningham.com/.
**Note: I received a free ARC in exchange for my honest review.
March 4, 2014
The Princess of Sparta: Heroes of the Trojan War by Aria Cunningham (to be released in April 2014) was a romantic retelling of the events leading up to the famous epic the Iliad. Told with a female focus, I couldn't help but love this historical fiction and romance. It begins with Helen choosing a husband Menelaus and the aftermath of her decision, continues with the excitement of Prince Paris arriving in their kingdom and leaves off with Paris and Helen disembarking for Troy.
Sometimes historical fictions are hard for me to start if the story is already told. Straight up period pieces aren't so bad because the author merely places new characters inside a time in history. But when you already have a preconceived notion about the characters and their story, it can be difficult to jump in with an open mind to changes in the characters. The question always is what will the author do to make it different and enjoyable? I didn't find it hard to enjoy The Princess of Sparta at all; in fact I loved it. I quickly found my ideas of Helen the bratty beauty fall away, and be replaced with a more female empowered version. What Cunningham quickly reminded me of, is that there are many sides to one story, and I might just prefer this romantic one the best! :)
The cover is a bit cheesy for a new romance book with such historical value; almost looks like something that would be pulled off grandma's shelf... but don't judge it by its cover! While reading, little historical gems were popping up everywhere for the history fan to revel in. Bull jumping from the island of Crete, the tholoi beehive tombs, and then all the characters from the Iliad which people sometimes forget about such as the sacrificial Iphigenia were there to give you historical glee. You find yourself knowing what is going to happen to the characters, but you have fallen in love with them, and therefore wish for their fates to change.
The romance was sweet and classy, but yet equally powerful to match the epic by which this love tale is based on. You will be sad to see it end so soon, but fear not for the sequel The Princess Betrayal: Heroes of the Trojan War comes out in Fall 2014.
You can find her website at http://www.ariacunningham.com/ and follow her on twitter at @ariacunningham
Sometimes historical fictions are hard for me to start if the story is already told. Straight up period pieces aren't so bad because the author merely places new characters inside a time in history. But when you already have a preconceived notion about the characters and their story, it can be difficult to jump in with an open mind to changes in the characters. The question always is what will the author do to make it different and enjoyable? I didn't find it hard to enjoy The Princess of Sparta at all; in fact I loved it. I quickly found my ideas of Helen the bratty beauty fall away, and be replaced with a more female empowered version. What Cunningham quickly reminded me of, is that there are many sides to one story, and I might just prefer this romantic one the best! :)
The cover is a bit cheesy for a new romance book with such historical value; almost looks like something that would be pulled off grandma's shelf... but don't judge it by its cover! While reading, little historical gems were popping up everywhere for the history fan to revel in. Bull jumping from the island of Crete, the tholoi beehive tombs, and then all the characters from the Iliad which people sometimes forget about such as the sacrificial Iphigenia were there to give you historical glee. You find yourself knowing what is going to happen to the characters, but you have fallen in love with them, and therefore wish for their fates to change.
The romance was sweet and classy, but yet equally powerful to match the epic by which this love tale is based on. You will be sad to see it end so soon, but fear not for the sequel The Princess Betrayal: Heroes of the Trojan War comes out in Fall 2014.
You can find her website at http://www.ariacunningham.com/ and follow her on twitter at @ariacunningham
April 30, 2025
Aria Cunningham’s The Princess of Sparta is a combination historical fiction/romance novel, and I’d have to say it succeeds on both fronts.
The story follows the life of the famed Helen of Troy of Greek mythology and mainly focuses on the relationship between Helen and the Trojan prince Paris. As someone with a cursory knowledge of the mythology at the heart of this story, I think this reimagined version is both plausible based on the records we have and believable from a human perspective.
Overall, I was very impressed with the quality of the storytelling. The characters felt real and experienced emotions true to their environments. The settings were rich and vibrant, and the pacing was appropriate to the genre. Honestly, one of my biggest concerns as a non-romance reader was, Would this piece of historical fiction, which I already know the ending to, keep my interest? And the answer is yes, absolutely it does. The passion between Helen and Paris really helps drive the reader forth, and I’m not going to lie – it gets pretty hot at times.
Now, there are some issues with the novel. There are some technical problems (the occasional typo, punctuation issues at the end of dialog tags), but for the most part they don’t interfere with the narrative. My one issue with the story was a final scene between Helen and Clytemnestra that I found somewhat unnecessary (and to a certain degree out of character for Clytemnestra), although I see why the author used it, as it helps convince Helen to accompany Paris.
In general, though, I found the novel highly enjoyable, and I’d recommend it even to readers who don’t normally consider themselves readers of either romance or historical fiction.
The story follows the life of the famed Helen of Troy of Greek mythology and mainly focuses on the relationship between Helen and the Trojan prince Paris. As someone with a cursory knowledge of the mythology at the heart of this story, I think this reimagined version is both plausible based on the records we have and believable from a human perspective.
Overall, I was very impressed with the quality of the storytelling. The characters felt real and experienced emotions true to their environments. The settings were rich and vibrant, and the pacing was appropriate to the genre. Honestly, one of my biggest concerns as a non-romance reader was, Would this piece of historical fiction, which I already know the ending to, keep my interest? And the answer is yes, absolutely it does. The passion between Helen and Paris really helps drive the reader forth, and I’m not going to lie – it gets pretty hot at times.
Now, there are some issues with the novel. There are some technical problems (the occasional typo, punctuation issues at the end of dialog tags), but for the most part they don’t interfere with the narrative. My one issue with the story was a final scene between Helen and Clytemnestra that I found somewhat unnecessary (and to a certain degree out of character for Clytemnestra), although I see why the author used it, as it helps convince Helen to accompany Paris.
In general, though, I found the novel highly enjoyable, and I’d recommend it even to readers who don’t normally consider themselves readers of either romance or historical fiction.
March 18, 2021
We all know the story of the Trojan War, and if you had to read Homer in school about the story after the war. But we don't often get the events before it.
Not counting the abduction or golden apple.
(I was 12 when I first heard the story so for me it was the apple.)
As much I love the story of the Trojan War, both I have to admit I never gave too much thought to the story of Helen and Paris. At the end of the day they really don't have much of an involvement in the war itself and are pretty much pawns left holding the matches for everyone to blame.
But in this we get to know them and their romance. And it's quite the romance. It's not an instant love, or instant lust as we get in most romances, we get to fall in love with them through out the story. What they do have is an instant connection and an instant bond as the black sheep of both their families. Both knowing that they belonged somewhere else, but also knowing that they had to accept the life that was fated to them.
Until they realize that, sometimes you have to take what's in front of you, for better or for worse.
Like I said, you fall in love with the characters as they fall in love. But even from the beginning hearing both their stories I couldn't help but caring and feeling for them. The descriptions are so beautifully written that it was like I was already familiar with them and their world.
The Princess Of Sparta is a beautiful romance, a wonderful story and a great addition to any historical fiction fan's shelf.
It definitely left me wanting more.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
Not counting the abduction or golden apple.
(I was 12 when I first heard the story so for me it was the apple.)
As much I love the story of the Trojan War, both I have to admit I never gave too much thought to the story of Helen and Paris. At the end of the day they really don't have much of an involvement in the war itself and are pretty much pawns left holding the matches for everyone to blame.
But in this we get to know them and their romance. And it's quite the romance. It's not an instant love, or instant lust as we get in most romances, we get to fall in love with them through out the story. What they do have is an instant connection and an instant bond as the black sheep of both their families. Both knowing that they belonged somewhere else, but also knowing that they had to accept the life that was fated to them.
Until they realize that, sometimes you have to take what's in front of you, for better or for worse.
Like I said, you fall in love with the characters as they fall in love. But even from the beginning hearing both their stories I couldn't help but caring and feeling for them. The descriptions are so beautifully written that it was like I was already familiar with them and their world.
The Princess Of Sparta is a beautiful romance, a wonderful story and a great addition to any historical fiction fan's shelf.
It definitely left me wanting more.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 12, 2015
Helen of Troy is famous in history and legend, but Aria Cunningham’s Princess of Sparta turns her into a living breathing character, beautiful, conflicted, wounded, and easily mistaking duty for love. Many myths build together into the picture, gently referenced and cut down to cruel human size. Meanwhile nicely researched history provides an authentic cultural backdrop. If Helen’s looking for “sweet and kind. Best you hope for clean, child,” says a wise adviser when invited husbands-to-be battle it out for her favor. But the truth is women were tools of their men, leaving this beautiful woman dominated by others, despite her own intelligence and intent.
There’s a nice blend of mythology and history in this tale, with gentle touches of mysticism as Helen, beloved by a goddess, struggles to understand the meaning of true love. Is it familial affection or dutiful obedience? Or is there romance at the end of an unseen rainbow? Meanwhile the rejected prince of Troy is on a journey to destiny.
Convincing details of scenery, politics, and culture bring this novel to life, with conflicted protagonists, Helen and Paris, working their way toward a long-delayed, mythically intense love-scene. Sure there are some typos, awkward phrases, and odd word usages along the way. But the story carries you through, and it’s quite a tale!
Disclosure: I was given a free ecopy during the author’s blog tour and I offer my honest review.
There’s a nice blend of mythology and history in this tale, with gentle touches of mysticism as Helen, beloved by a goddess, struggles to understand the meaning of true love. Is it familial affection or dutiful obedience? Or is there romance at the end of an unseen rainbow? Meanwhile the rejected prince of Troy is on a journey to destiny.
Convincing details of scenery, politics, and culture bring this novel to life, with conflicted protagonists, Helen and Paris, working their way toward a long-delayed, mythically intense love-scene. Sure there are some typos, awkward phrases, and odd word usages along the way. But the story carries you through, and it’s quite a tale!
Disclosure: I was given a free ecopy during the author’s blog tour and I offer my honest review.
April 1, 2014
I got this as a review copy right about the time the new 300 was coming out. I couldn't have picked a better novel read right now just because my mind was already focused on that time period. Overall I found this to be an interesting and compelling story. The characters had depth and compassion. I will be honest in saying I started the read without much knowledge in regards to who Helen was, other than the woman who started a war. I enjoyed the authors take on the situation and feel like I learned a little bit about ancient times while I was enjoying a good quality love story. I would, without a doubt, be interested in reading the entire series.
March 28, 2014
I had the privilege of getting an advanced reader copy of this novel. Before my review details, let me preface this with the fact that I am a guy. And while the cover of this book is quite beautiful, on the surface it doesn't look like a book I would generally read. It says romance novel and it is.
But it's so much more.
From just the prologue, I was hooked. This book kept me awake at night, wanting to keep reading one more chapter. There is romance yes, but there is also an intricate web of characters, plots, and scheming. It's really like game of thrones meets actual ancient history. I knew so little about the actual bronze age, and had no idea what an interesting and poignant time in our history this was. Cunningham made that world come to life for me, and I eagerly look forward to the sequel (of which I hope there are many).
And perhaps the greatest surprise of all was the characters. There isn't a stereotype amongst them. They are all richly nuanced and full of tragic flaws, which makes you understand the world in a way that you've never imagined. Ultimately, it makes the romance at the core of the story all the more enjoyable and even erotic.
You might think you know the players in the Trojan war, but you don't. Not until you read this book.
But it's so much more.
From just the prologue, I was hooked. This book kept me awake at night, wanting to keep reading one more chapter. There is romance yes, but there is also an intricate web of characters, plots, and scheming. It's really like game of thrones meets actual ancient history. I knew so little about the actual bronze age, and had no idea what an interesting and poignant time in our history this was. Cunningham made that world come to life for me, and I eagerly look forward to the sequel (of which I hope there are many).
And perhaps the greatest surprise of all was the characters. There isn't a stereotype amongst them. They are all richly nuanced and full of tragic flaws, which makes you understand the world in a way that you've never imagined. Ultimately, it makes the romance at the core of the story all the more enjoyable and even erotic.
You might think you know the players in the Trojan war, but you don't. Not until you read this book.
April 15, 2014
Once I started I couldn't put this book down...
I loved reading this book. I stayed up until 4am because I couldn't stop reading it. It hooked me from the very beginning and the storytelling was gripping. For the first time I was reading Greek characters who felt like legitimate real people instead of demi-gods and superheroes. All the characters were very compelling to me, whether I loved or hated them.
I particularly love the author's take on Helen and Paris. Their story line pulls at your heart. Their's is not just a love of passion, but one of duty and honor. They are star-crossed lovers that really, truly, deserve to be with each other.
I grew up reading comic books and love fantasy, but this book really made me interested in ancient history. I can't wait to read the sequel. It's hard for me to imagine that someone would not enjoy this book if they are looking for a fun read.
I loved reading this book. I stayed up until 4am because I couldn't stop reading it. It hooked me from the very beginning and the storytelling was gripping. For the first time I was reading Greek characters who felt like legitimate real people instead of demi-gods and superheroes. All the characters were very compelling to me, whether I loved or hated them.
I particularly love the author's take on Helen and Paris. Their story line pulls at your heart. Their's is not just a love of passion, but one of duty and honor. They are star-crossed lovers that really, truly, deserve to be with each other.
I grew up reading comic books and love fantasy, but this book really made me interested in ancient history. I can't wait to read the sequel. It's hard for me to imagine that someone would not enjoy this book if they are looking for a fun read.
March 16, 2018
Romance:3.5
Steaminess:3
Action/suspense:3
Overall:4
I really enjoyed this story.
I love a good Greek mythology story so I was definitely excited to start this book. Since the story of Helen of Troy is so famous, there's always different variations on the characters and circumstances. And I liked Helen's character personality in this novel. Shes portrayed as a gentle and kind girl but incidently not vain. I also liked the depth to Paris's character. I read all variations of this story but this is the only book that gives me a little backstory and insight to the prince. The romance between them was kindda sweet and I liked the concept of soul mates. It was a little slow paced, but I understand thats more on the fact of the customs of the times.
This book was steamy by historical romance standards. I definitely think the author deserves some serious props for historical accuracy. You can definitely tell that a lot of research went into this book and I really appreciate that attention to detail. It really made that time period come to life. Theres was a lot of action but I'm already familiar with the legend so it wasn't too much of a surprise. I was, however, thrown by the ending. I definitely did not see that plot twist coming.
In conclusion, I liked this book. It really brought the story of Helen and Paris to life. It certainly kept me on my toes and I was engaged the whole way through. I look forward to the next book in the series.
Steaminess:3
Action/suspense:3
Overall:4
I really enjoyed this story.
I love a good Greek mythology story so I was definitely excited to start this book. Since the story of Helen of Troy is so famous, there's always different variations on the characters and circumstances. And I liked Helen's character personality in this novel. Shes portrayed as a gentle and kind girl but incidently not vain. I also liked the depth to Paris's character. I read all variations of this story but this is the only book that gives me a little backstory and insight to the prince. The romance between them was kindda sweet and I liked the concept of soul mates. It was a little slow paced, but I understand thats more on the fact of the customs of the times.
This book was steamy by historical romance standards. I definitely think the author deserves some serious props for historical accuracy. You can definitely tell that a lot of research went into this book and I really appreciate that attention to detail. It really made that time period come to life. Theres was a lot of action but I'm already familiar with the legend so it wasn't too much of a surprise. I was, however, thrown by the ending. I definitely did not see that plot twist coming.
In conclusion, I liked this book. It really brought the story of Helen and Paris to life. It certainly kept me on my toes and I was engaged the whole way through. I look forward to the next book in the series.
June 4, 2014
I won this book as a Goodreads Giveaway and although I was looking forward to reading it, I was not sure what to expect. This book is slightly different from the normal genres I read. I was surprised by how much I enjoyed it. I thought it started out a little slow and it did take me a while to get into it. I think it was around the time Paris entered the picture that I started to become more interested. What stood out to me in the book was the characters. I really liked both Helen and Paris. Sometimes in books the chemistry between characters feels forced and as a reader you don't get it. With Helen and Paris you could feel the tension and the chemistry between them. As a reader, their love was believable and you were really rooting for them to have a happy ending. I also enjoy a forbidden love story and this book has that. They shouldn't be together, but yet they are drawn to each other in a way that they cannot resist. I liked the ending and I would read the next book in the Heroes of the Trojan War series. I would recommend this book to other readers.
I received the book for free through Goodreads First Reads and this is my honest review.
I received the book for free through Goodreads First Reads and this is my honest review.
October 29, 2014
I was unsure about reading this book at first as we always have our own ideas or notions about historical readings as we have read about them before and or know how the story goes or do we. Aria Cunningham may have just taken every preconceived notion I had about The Princess of Sparta and thrown it out the window! I loved her retelling of Helen of Troy Aria made me fall in love with this story all over again. It truly is one of my favorites in history. Helen is written beautifully and once she gets past all that has gone wrong for her and how unfairly she has been treated she begins to come into her true beauty. Then there is Paris and all I can say is he is one fine specimen of a man! I can see why he had women falling at his feet! These two together made such a wonderful romance come alive for me. I am hooked on this story and all the beauty it possess. Each scene is so picturesque leaving me to see the magic as it unfolds. I am in love with The Princess of Sparta and look forward to reading what Aria Cunningham has next.
February 25, 2015
I really enjoyed this one. I have always been fascinated by this story and it was told with such an ease that I could not stop reading it. I had to know what happened next. I am going to see if there is a next book and probably read it next.
February 2, 2015
follow your heart!
I am Greek.
I can read the Homeric Epic Poems in the original.
It's the first time I went through the pages of a classical work, gasping for air!
Thank you!
I am Greek.
I can read the Homeric Epic Poems in the original.
It's the first time I went through the pages of a classical work, gasping for air!
Thank you!
September 4, 2018
Without giving anything away ,and most of us know the story anyway. This version of the Helen and her life before fleeing to Troy with Paris, has by far been one of my favorites. I believe that I have read almost every version that has been printed. This truly gives an in site to Helen that has not been seen before.
April 11, 2021
I appreciate the slightly more mature Paris here, but not too happy about the demonization of every other character in there. I really didn't like what happened between Clytemnestra and Helen at the end, and I feel like most authors just throw stuff like this in so that they don't need to complicate their characters.
June 5, 2014
I want to start by saying that I won this book through Goodreads First Reads, and I really enjoyed the overall story. I started reading with an idea that it would be similar to other historical romances, and in most respects it was. The main difference between this one and some of the others I have read is that this one is based on real people, and real events. The character of Helen was not what I was expecting, and I loved that about her. Every time someone thought they got the better of her, she proved them wrong. The same can be said of Paris. Although you learn more of his story though out the book, ( hers is really the beginning (Part 1), and then in a few paragraphs after through-out the book) it is more of how love finds them and brings them together. Overall it was a great read, there are some interesting roles created through minor characters. I definitely would recommend to people who love history, romance, and don't mind a few steamy love scenes.
August 19, 2014
If I could give it negative stars, I would. Amateurish, poorly written, I only made it through two chapters. How anyone could take one of the greatest love stories of all time and turn it into this, I have no idea. Waste neither your time nor your money on it.
July 10, 2016
Well written book on the story of Helen of Troy
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book especially with the cultural aspect of it. I never realized Helen had an identical twin. That put a new twist on the story for me.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book especially with the cultural aspect of it. I never realized Helen had an identical twin. That put a new twist on the story for me.
June 4, 2014
Review will be posted after it posts at its main source
February 20, 2015
Really enjoyed this read if you like historical fiction of this era, you'll love it.
February 9, 2015
Much less silly than Orlando Bloom and Brad Pitt, though I had a horrible time not picturing that crappy movie as I read.
March 10, 2015
A different background about the famous characters and the scene close to the end was surprising twist.
February 20, 2015
Good
Enjoyed reading this book. Was different from other books I usually read. Glad I have read it. May read more about this
Enjoyed reading this book. Was different from other books I usually read. Glad I have read it. May read more about this
March 6, 2015
wonderful!
June 17, 2015
2.5 stars. It would have been 3, except for a scene at the very end that totally threw me off. But it was pretty good. An great beach read.
August 16, 2015
Completely unexpected rape and incest triggers.
January 4, 2016
Interesting telling of the story so far. Don't really believe this is how it happened but it is interest and entertaining.
March 22, 2016
Bit more of a romance than I was expecting. It was a fun story with some interesting historical details and I liked how it took its time over Helen's initial decision, but it didn't wow me.
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