The story begins in an oppressive ancient Greek village, where we meet Otrera, a young woman who embodies resilience and strength in a world defined by hardship. Her daughter, Penthesilea, grows up within the fierce Amazon culture, constantly striving to prove herself in the long shadow of her older sisters. As a child, she is mocked for her beauty, slight stature, and lack of coordination-fueling a deep need to validate her worth. When she learns that her father is Ares, the god of war, her resolve intensifies. Through grueling physical training, Penthesilea rises through the ranks, earning her place among the Amazons. But her journey is shaken when her mother, Otrera, is killed in battle, leaving Penthesilea devastated.
Soon after, Heracles arrives, seeking to claim what is not his. Penthesilea joins her sisters in defense of their land. During the brutal clash, their sister Antiope is taken, prompting Penthesilea and Hippolyta to travel to Troy in search of her. While there, Hector pleads with the Amazons for their aid in the looming war, but Hippolyta refuses, and the sisters begin their journey home.
Tragedy strikes again when, during a hunting accident, Penthesilea accidentally kills Hippolyta. Wracked with guilt, she spirals into grief and darkness. When news reaches her that Hector has been slain and the Greeks have laid siege to Troy, Penthesilea returns-determined to fight not just for Troy, but for redemption.
On the battlefield, Penthesilea proves to be a fearsome force. Her prowess is unmatched as she cuts down Greek soldiers with skill and ferocity. But her greatest test comes in the form of Achilles, the legendary warrior. In an epic and brutal final duel, the two engage in a battle of equals. Though gravely wounded, Penthesilea defeats Achilles-only to succumb to her own injuries shortly after.
Even in death, Penthesilea fulfills her destiny. She stands immortalized as the greatest of the Amazon warriors, having overcome adversity, personal demons, and the weight of divine expectation to prove her worth on the battlefield against legends.
Pentasilia: Rise of an Amazon is a gripping feminist retelling of myth, rich with sisterhood, sorrow, and swordplay. For fans of Circe, The Song of Achilles, and Wonder Woman, this debut novel brings a forgotten warrior queen to life.
¿¿¿¿ 50% of all proceeds will be donated to Make-A-Wish Foundation.
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