Picture a storyteller who turned ancient Greek myths into heart-pounding adventures—meet Claire M. Andrews! This Vermont-based author has taken the literary world by storm with her bestselling Daughter of Sparta series, reimagining Greek mythology through fierce, female-led narratives. With a knack for blending historical accuracy and thrilling action, Andrews has carved a unique niche in young adult fantasy, captivating readers who crave empowered heroines and mythological intrigue.
Raised in the rugged landscapes of Alaska and the misty hills of Scotland, Andrews brings a worldly perspective to her stories. Her passion for Greek history and anthropology shines through, transforming forgotten myths into vibrant tales of courage and agency. Let’s dive into the life, works, and impact of this dynamic author!
The Making of Claire M. Andrews
Claire M. Andrews’s journey to authorship was shaped by her eclectic upbringing. Splitting her childhood between Alaska’s wild frontiers and Scotland’s storied landscapes, she developed a deep love for nature and history. She earned a B.A. in Social Sciences from the University of Alaska Southeast in 2014, focusing on anthropology, archaeology, and history—fields that would later fuel her writing. Her fascination with Greek mythology began early, sparked by frustration with the often-tragic fates of female characters. Inspired by her mother’s advice to rewrite these stories, Andrews set out to give mythical women the agency they deserved.
Before becoming a published author, Andrews honed her skills in various roles, from event planning to archaeological surveys. Working as a Program Coordinator at Vermont Law School, she balanced her professional life with her writing dreams. Her persistence paid off after years of rejections, landing her a deal for her debut novel, Daughter of Sparta, in 2021.
Claire M. Andrews’s Unforgettable Stories
Andrews’s Daughter of Sparta series is a triumph of mythological retelling, blending action, romance, and historical detail. Her debut, Daughter of Sparta (2021), reimagines the myth of Daphne and Apollo. Here, Daphne is a Spartan warrior tasked with recovering stolen Olympian artifacts, battling mythical creatures alongside the charming yet arrogant god Apollo. The novel’s fast-paced plot and empowering female lead have earned praise for flipping male-dominated myths into thrilling, female-driven adventures.
The sequel, Blood of Troy (2022), thrusts Daphne into the Trojan War, weaving political intrigue and romance as she guards Queen Helen. Critics lauded its Homeric tone and vivid worldbuilding, with Andrews granting agency to women like Helen, traditionally sidelined in myth. The trilogy’s finale, Storm of Olympus (2023), concludes Daphne’s epic journey, cementing Andrews’s reputation for crafting complex heroines. Her writing style—rich with historical accuracy and breathless combat scenes—appeals to fans of Rick Riordan and Madeline Miller, offering a fresh lens on Greek lore.
Beyond the series, Andrews has teased a dark academia novel, hinting at her versatility. Her stories consistently champion female strength, challenge misogynistic tropes, and immerse readers in meticulously researched settings, from Sparta’s rugged hills to Troy’s vibrant streets.
Why Claire M. Andrews Matters
Claire M. Andrews has redefined Greek mythology retellings by centering women in stories historically dominated by men. Her work resonates with readers seeking empowering narratives, particularly young women inspired by Daphne’s resilience and wit. By grounding her tales in anthropological and historical research, Andrews brings authenticity to a genre often steeped in fantasy, earning accolades from authors like Adalyn Grace and Katy Rose Pool.
Her impact extends beyond books. As a mentor to aspiring writers, Andrews shares insights from her long road to publication, encouraging perseverance and creativity. Her ability to weave diverse cultural influences—from Alaska’s wilderness to Scotland’s heritage—into her storytelling makes her a unique voice in YA literature, inspiring a new generation to explore mythology with fresh eyes.
About Claire M. Andrews
- Key Works: Daughter of Sparta (2021), Blood of Troy (2022), Storm of Olympus (2023)
- Education: B.A. in Social Sciences, University of Alaska Southeast (2014)
- Hobbies: Swimming, skiing, and hiking in Vermont’s Green Mountains
- Social Media: Find her on Instagram and Twitter at @cmandrewslit
Ready to embark on an epic adventure? Snag Daughter of Sparta and dive into Claire M. Andrews’s thrilling world of myth and heroism!