"A vivid portrayal of a Greek goddess’s power and resilience . . . Deeply compelling and ultimately empowering." - Kirkus Reviews
Rich with betrayal, desire, and divine intrigue, this origin story of Greek mythology told from the point of view of its chief villain weaves gods, nymphs, dragons, sex, lies, and strategy into a fierce new legend. Hera: Kingdom of Lies combines the social and political maneuvers of Scandal with the mythic, villain-redemption of Circe. Here's what it's about:
Before the gods came to be.
Before humankind was imagined.
Before Olympus was more than mist on a desolate mountain — Hera reigned.
When the war hero, Zeus, takes power and moves Hera’s statues aside to make room for his own, the queen of heaven must find her place in a new order. At first, drawn in by Zeus’ charm, she quickly realizes she wants no part of life with this petty, egocentric dictator. When she refuses to marry him, what began as seduction becomes a snare. Trapped into marriage, Hera learns that power can still be forged through cunning, seduction, and unexpected alliances. But after she gives birth to the God of War, her influence begins to crumble — and his lust threatens to tear the kingdom apart.
Who is the Goddess of Marriage, if she’s bound to a husband who defiles every vow?
Who is the Goddess of Motherhood, if she’s raising a child, the world misunderstands?
What kind of goddess is she willing to become to protect her people and her child?
Here's what reviewers are saying:
"Rooted in myth yet pulsing with modern fire, Hera: Kingdom of Lies is a reimagining of a classical tale, one that honors a woman’s rage, her love, and the power she claims for herself. A retelling made for contemporary women." — Scribblers Ink
“A captivating reading experience . . . Ellor creates Hera as she should be – not a villain, as so many women are cast, but as a resolute and fiery hero, a phoenix from the flames that protects and claims a better life for herself and those who need it.” - Hook of a Book
"From the opening scene to the final moments, I was captivated. The author crafted a beautifully detailed world with vivid characters . . . Highly recommend." - Wonderful World of Words
“. . . had me reading this book from start to finish in one day.” - Boys Mom Reads
"Jealous, vengeful ....these are the characteristics traditionally assigned to Hera, wife of Zeus. In Hera: Kingdom of Lies, Betsy Ellor turns tradition on its head, revealing a woman who, facing heartache and betrayal, discovers the power she holds within." - Susanna Baird, editor, Five Minutes
“The writing is immersive and vivid, pulling readers into a realm filled with tension, desire, and political intrigue . . . Ellor delivers a novel that lingers long after the final page.” - In Our Spare Time
