The Curse Of Ariadne

A reinterpretation of the legend of Ariadne, who became immortal by marrying the wine god Dionysus.

An epic tale of female independence.

Ariadne, daughter of Minos, the cruel ruler of Crete, has always been considered a helpless object, unable to choose her own destiny, a commodity to be sold to the highest bidder. So when the handsome, lovestruck Theseus arrives to renegotiate the terms of Ariadne’s subjugation, she agrees to run away with him, taking her mother, Pasiphae, and her younger sisters with her to save them from their father’s abuse. It turns out that Theseus intends to kidnap the princess and use her as a hostage. They are discovered and imprisoned in the Labyrinth, guarded by the monstrous Minotaur.

In this vast underground structure, full of secret passages and hidden levels beneath the island, Ariadne and the women are left to rot while Theseus reveals his most brutal nature. Ariadne can only rely on her resources outside the labyrinth to gain her freedom.

When I started writing this novel, no one was talking about it, but I challenge anyone to find a woman who hasn’t had some experience with male molestation or intimidation. It affects us all.
I wanted to give voice slaves, the poor and women, those silenced by history
and abused by the powerful.

Sara A. Benatti

Rights sold:
Turkey (Minoa & Marem Nostram)

Association Hikaya – A Confluence live talk hosted by Hikaya with Sara Benatti