Publisher's Synopsis
You Had Me At Hello - Eleven Love Stories from Mythology
Chapter 1: Achilles and Patroclus (Greek) In the ancient world of Greece, the love between the great warrior Achilles and his closest companion, Patroclus, was legendary. They were inseparable on and off the battlefield, and their bond was a testament to the power of friendship and love. This chapter explores their deep connection and how a simple "hello" led to a love that transcended even death itself.
Chapter 2: Acis and Galatea (Greek) The story of Acis and Galatea tells of a love that blossomed between a mortal man and a sea nymph. When they first met, a simple "hello" sparked a romance that defied the boundaries of their worlds. This chapter delves into their enchanting love story and the challenges they faced in their quest to be together.
Chapter 3: Aeneas and Dido (Roman) In the epic tale of Aeneas and Dido, a chance encounter led to a love that shook the foundations of an empire. Aeneas, a Trojan hero, and Queen Dido of Carthage found solace in each other's company. This chapter explores their passionate love story and the tragic consequences of their fateful meeting.
Chapter 4: Alcestis and Admetus (Greek) Alcestis's unwavering love for her husband, Admetus, was put to the ultimate test when he faced death. This chapter delves into how Alcestis's sacrifice and a simple "hello" became a symbol of selfless love and devotion in Greek mythology.
Chapter 5: Alcyone and Ceyx (Greek) The love between Alcyone and Ceyx was so strong that even the gods took notice. Their story, filled with love and tragedy, unfolds in this chapter as we explore how a chance encounter led to a love that would touch the heavens.
Chapter 6: Apollo and Daphne (Greek) Apollo, the god of light and music, fell in love with the nymph Daphne. However, her desire to remain free led to a dramatic transformation. This chapter explores how their initial meeting set the stage for a love story that defied both mortality and divinity.
Chapter 7: Apollo and Hyacinth (Greek) The love between Apollo and the mortal youth Hyacinth blossomed like a flower, but it was tragically cut short. In this chapter, we delve into their brief yet profound love story and how a simple "hello" paved the way for enduring love.
Chapter 8: Ares/Mars and Aphrodite/Venus (Greek/Roman) Aphrodite, the goddess of love, found herself drawn to the god of war, Ares. Their passionate and tumultuous love affair, filled with jealousy and desire, is explored in this chapter as we delve into the complex world of divine love.
Chapter 9: Arjuna and Draupadi (Hindu) In the Indian epic Mahabharata, the Pandava prince Arjuna and the fiery Draupadi shared a unique bond. This chapter tells the story of their love, how a simple "hello" led to a connection that would shape the destiny of an entire kingdom.
Chapter 10: Atalanta and Hippomenes/Melanion (Greek) The love story of Atalanta, the fastest mortal, and Hippomenes, who relied on cunning, is a testament to the power of strategy and desire. This chapter explores how a simple "hello" set the stage for a love story that combined wit and passion.
Chapter 11: Bheema and Draupadi (Hindu) In the Mahabharata, the love between the Pandava prince Bheema and Draupadi was unconventional and enduring. This final chapter delves into their complex relationship, how they connected through a shared understanding, and the love that defied societal norms.
