Picture a British storyteller who turned ancient myths into gripping tales of forgotten women—meet Claire Heywood! With her sharp wit and scholarly flair, she’s redefining historical fantasy, blending Greek mythology with feminist fire. Her debut, Daughters of Sparta, soared as a USA national bestseller, proving she’s a voice to watch in the literary world.
Heywood’s knack for breathing life into ancient stories comes from her deep love for the past. Her novels don’t just retell myths; they give silenced figures like Helen of Troy and Medusa their moment to shine. Ready to dive into her world? Let’s explore the journey of this rising star!
The Making of Claire Heywood
Born in Coventry, England, Claire Heywood grew up with a passion for stories, sparked by fantasy giants like Terry Pratchett and Philip Pullman. Her academic path led her to the University of Warwick, where she earned a First-Class BA in Classical Civilisation and an MA with Distinction in Ancient Visual and Material Culture, plus two academic prizes. Before writing full-time, she worked as a tour guide at the Roman Baths in Bath, sharing tales of ancient life with visitors. This blend of scholarly rigor and storytelling zest set the stage for her literary career.
Heywood’s writing journey began in earnest after university. Taking a leap of faith, she spent a gap year crafting her debut novel, fueled by her fascination with Greek mythology and a desire to amplify women’s voices. Now based in Bristol, she’s traded tour guiding for crafting novels that captivate readers worldwide.
Claire Heywood’s Unforgettable Stories
Heywood’s debut, Daughters of Sparta (2021), is a feminist retelling of the Trojan War, seen through the eyes of Helen of Troy and her sister Klytemnestra. This vivid novel strips away the male-centric lens of traditional myths, exploring the sisters’ struggles against patriarchal constraints. Its emotional depth and historical authenticity made it a national bestseller, earning praise for its fresh perspective.
Her second novel, The Shadow of Perseus (2023), reimagines the myth of Perseus through the perspectives of his mother Danae, Medusa, and Andromeda. Heywood’s lyrical prose and focus on overlooked female figures create a powerful narrative of bravery and heartbreak. Critics lauded its ability to humanize mythic characters, cementing her reputation as a master of mythological retellings.
Heywood’s style is a unique blend of scholarly insight and accessible storytelling. Her novels weave historical detail—think ancient jewelry, food, and rituals—with emotional realism, making the ancient world feel vividly alive. Themes of resilience, agency, and defiance run through her work, resonating with readers who crave stories of empowered women.
Why Claire Heywood Matters
Claire Heywood is more than a novelist; she’s a cultural bridge, making ancient myths accessible and relevant. By centering women’s voices, she challenges the male-dominated narratives of classical literature, offering a feminist lens that feels both timeless and timely. Her work has sparked conversations about gender and power, inspiring readers to rethink the stories they thought they knew.
Her impact extends to libraries and book clubs, where her novels are celebrated for their emotional depth and discussion-provoking themes. As a rising star in historical fantasy, Heywood is paving the way for more diverse voices in the genre, proving that the past still has plenty to teach us.
- Birthplace: Coventry, England
- Key Works: Daughters of Sparta (2021), The Shadow of Perseus (2023)
- Education: BA and MA from University of Warwick
- Fun Fact: Former tour guide at the Roman Baths in Bath
Snag Daughters of Sparta or The Shadow of Perseus and dive into Claire Heywood’s spellbinding historical fantasy! Her tales of fierce women and ancient worlds will leave you hungry for more.