Thursday, May 10, 2012

Hetaera--Suspense in Ancient Athens FREE today

If you haven't picked up a copy yet, Hetaera--Suspense in Ancient Athens is FREE today and tomorrow on Kindle.

Book One of the Agathon's Daughter trilogy, I began writing the book about ten years ago when I traveled through Greece with my friend and mentor, speculative fiction writer, Elizabeth Engstrom. I worked on the book at the (now defunct) Maui Writer's Conference and was privileged to study with the generous and fabulous writers Terry Brooks and Tess Gerritsen

I've been interested in ancient Greece for many years. Classic Greek theater and ancient religion was my major in college. I love the high drama of the Greeks, the beauty of their art, the philosophy--and the amazing influence they've wielded on western culture. Early on, I became fascinated with the role that women played in ancient societies. Very little was written about women's roles and everyday life, but that's what I've found fascinating. The plays offer some insight, as does studying the remnants of household goods on display at museums. The rest I leave to my imagination. In my books, I endeavor to bring ancient times to life, creating stories filled with drama and passion. 

In ancient cultures the most powerful women were often courtesans. The consort of Pericles, the famous Athenian statesman during the the classical period, was Aspasia--unable to marry, because she was not Athenian, Aspasia served as hetaera to Pericles. The hetaerae had great influence and were often highly educated. Unlike other women, who were sequestered within their homes, the hetaerae were permitted to attended symposiums. At these glorified drinking parties of the Athenian elite, discussion turned to heated debates about politics, art, philosophy--and the hetaerae voiced their opinions. 

If you would enjoy a peek into the amazing time and place of Classic Athens--pick up a free electronic copy of Hetaera today on Amazon. 

3 comments:

Sherry E. said...

I just finished reading "Hetaera", and I loved it! When will the second book in the trilogy be available?

Suzanne Tyrpak said...

Thank you so much, Sherry, for reading Hetaera. I'm working on book two, Priestess, and hope to have it out this fall--but it's been so going due to life getting in the way of writing! I have the story in my head, just need to get it down on paper. I'll keep you posted here when it comes out.

Anonymous said...

This is my first comment on any book ever!! I loved " Hetaera " and I'm very excited to read the rest of the trilogy.