Picture a British storyteller who spun ancient Greek myths into feminist gold—meet Laura Shepperson! With her spellbinding novels, she’s reimagining the tales of Phaedra and Aeneas, giving voice to women long silenced by history. Her sharp prose and bold takes have made her a standout in historical fiction, captivating readers with stories that feel both timeless and urgently modern.
Born in the UK, Laura’s fascination with myths began early, and her work now blends classical intrigue with contemporary relevance. From Sunday Times bestsellers to global translations, her novels are a must-read for anyone who loves a good story with a fierce edge. Ready to dive into her world?
The Making of Laura Shepperson
Laura Shepperson’s journey to literary stardom started with a love for myths, sparked during her studies in Classical Studies at the University of Auckland. With a Master of Studies in Creative Writing from the University of Cambridge, she honed her craft, drawing inspiration from the likes of Virgil and Euripides, as well as modern greats like Iris Murdoch. Her early career saw her shortlisted for the prestigious Lucy Cavendish Prize for Fiction in 2017, a nod to her raw talent. Living just outside London with her husband and two children, Laura balances family life with her passion for rewriting history’s overlooked narratives.
Laura Shepperson’s Unforgettable Stories
Laura’s debut novel, The Heroines (published as Phaedra in the US), stormed onto the scene as a Sunday Times bestseller in 2023. This feminist retelling of Phaedra’s myth flips the script, portraying her not as a villain but as a survivor seeking justice after accusing her stepson, Hippolytus, of rape. The novel’s courtroom-drama vibe and vivid Athenian setting make it a gripping read, with voices like the ‘Night Chorus’ amplifying the struggles of women in a male-dominated world.
In 2024, Laura followed up with The Heir of Venus, a reimagining of Aeneas’ story through the eyes of the women around him, like Creusa. Critics praised its fresh perspective and emotional depth, cementing Laura’s knack for breathing new life into ancient tales. Her prose is sharp yet evocative, blending historical detail with modern feminist rage. Both novels challenge misogynistic myths, making readers rethink who gets to be the hero in these stories.
Laura’s works have been translated into Italian, Spanish, and Russian, reaching a global audience. Her ability to weave complex characters and moral questions into page-turning narratives has earned her comparisons to authors like Jennifer Saint and Madeline Miller, though her voice is distinctly her own.
Why Laura Shepperson Matters
Laura Shepperson’s impact lies in her fearless approach to retelling myths from a feminist lens, giving agency to women whose stories were often reduced to footnotes. Her novels resonate with readers who crave stories that confront injustice while celebrating resilience. By tackling themes like sexual violence and societal judgment, she bridges the gap between ancient Greece and today’s world, sparking conversations about gender and power. Her growing fanbase and critical acclaim signal a lasting influence in historical fiction and myth retellings.
- Key Works: The Heroines/Phaedra (2023), The Heir of Venus (2024)
- Awards: Shortlisted for Lucy Cavendish Prize for Fiction (2017)
- Social Media: Find her on Twitter and Instagram @LauraShepperson
Snag The Heroines or The Heir of Venus and dive into Laura Shepperson’s fierce, myth-shattering world! Her stories will leave you inspired, enraged, and hungry for more.