GENTLEST OF WILD THINGS

Two girls work to discover their own strength to survive.

Sixteen-year-old Eirene and her twin, Phoebe, who have light brown skin and curly black hair, live in Zakynthos, a town controlled by Leandros, a descendant of Eros. Women there are manipulated by Leandros’ Desires, magic that seemingly brainwashes them into being under their husbands’ control. After Alexandra, Leandros’ 18-year-old wife, dies suddenly and mysteriously, he decides to marry beautiful Phoebe, wooing her with lavish gifts. When Stavros, the sisters’ cousin and guardian, agrees to the match, Eirene, who has never had “an interest in the beauty of men,” is determined to save her sister from Alexandra’s fate. She makes a deal with Leandros: If she can complete four tasks that he sets, she’ll marry him in her sister’s place. If she fails, he’ll take Phoebe as his wife. Unbeknownst to Eirene, Leandros has a daughter, pale, redheaded Lamia, who’s been hidden from the world. Her left leg never fully healed from an accident and affects her mobility. A connection quickly blossoms between the two girls as Lamia helps Eirene with the increasingly difficult tasks. As they complete each one, Eirene and Lamia grow closer to discovering the mysteries of Leandros and his powers. The compelling plot explores themes of feminism, disability, and abuse in thoughtful ways, while staying true to the setting of ancient Greece. Readers will be intrigued by this Sapphic retelling featuring a strong sense of place.

A creative, well-told story to satisfy fans of Greek mythology.