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Your next favorite book
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by Lauren J. A. Bear
Experience the myth and magic of antiquity's most alluring—and provocative—goddess as never witnessed before, in this gorgeously rendered, unflinching, and deeply vulnerable retelling from the author of Mother of Rome and Medusa's Sisters.
Two hundred years before the common era, Aphrodite surprises an itinerant sculptor with a shocking request: Hear my story, see me for who I truly am, and carve it into stone. Never before has the goddess posed for her likeness, and as the artist works, she shares pieces of herself.
Her greatest triumphs and most grievous mistakes. The truth behind the tales of her beneficence and vengeance. And the one epic romance that slips through her perfect fingers, time and time again.
Part memoir, part fantasy, and all heart, Aphrodite in Pieces begs the eternal, essential questions: what do love and beauty truly mean? And can they last?
BookBrowsers Ask Lauren J.A. Bear, author of Aphrodite in Pieces
Please help me welcome Lauren J.A. Bear to the BookBrowse Community Forum. According to her https://www.laurenjabear.com/the-author website , Lauren is a reader and writer, an educator, a troublemaker, and a fierce mama bear. She was born in Boston and raised in Long Beach. After studying English...
-kim.kovacs
Have you read either of Lauren J.A. Bear’s previous novels, Medusa’s Sisters or Mother of Rome? If so, how do they compare to Aphrodite in Pieces?
I'm almost through with Mother of Rome and I'm glad I had a chance to read it. It's different from Aphrodite in that I feel like there's more historical basis. (I know, I know, the founding of Rome is a myth, but I still feel the legend has some kernel of fact.) In Aphrodite I feel like the chall...
-kim.kovacs
Lauren J.A. Bear will be here next week, 6/15-6/17
Hey, fellow readers! Lauren J.A. Bear will be here next Monday for a Q & A. She's the author of our recent BookBrowse Book Club book, Aphrodite in Pieces, as well as Mother of Rome and Medusa's Sisters. I hope you'll join us!
-kim.kovacs
What are you reading this week? And what did you think of last week’s books? (6/11/2026)
This week I read https://www.bookbrowse.com/bb_briefs/detail/index.cfm/ezine_preview_number/24510/contrapposto Contrapposto by Dave Eggers for review. It's about two friends who meet as children and have an on-and-off relationship for the next 60 years. It's got some beautiful writing and I enjoy...
-kim.kovacs
Ask the Author mug winners
Congrats to our latest BookBrowse mug winners, chosen at random from the members who very kindly stopped by the Q & A area to ask our visiting authors questions about their work. Thank you very much to all who participated, it's very much appreciated. Donna Everhart ( https://www.bookbrowse.com/b...
-kim.kovacs
In the Author’s Note, Bear says she “drew a lot of Aphrodite’s character” from women of Hollywood’s Golden Era. Which elements of these starlets did you see in Aphrodite? Which other “goddesses” would you add to the list?
Janine_S, Good idea. From what I have read she was smart and obviously beautiful. She certainly was not lucky in selecting her partners!
-Dee_Driscole
What did you know about Aphrodite and what was your opinion of her before reading Aphrodite in Pieces? Did your feelings about her change over the course of the novel?
My knowledge of Aphrodite is left over from school readings. I knew she was the goddess of love but didn't know anything of her relationships or actions. I really appreciate how the author brought her to life with a complete personality, and I felt she brought that to most of the characters. It w...
-Donna_M
What did you think of the novel’s post-Troy ending? Did you enjoy the way the various threads wrapped up? Would you have liked to have seen a different ending for any of the characters?
Patricia said it all for me. I particularly appreciate the idea that the gods and goddesses continue in some realm. Plus the history of the statue and its controversies keeps her idea alive throughout generations.
-Donna_M
What was your opinion of the relationship between Ares and Aphrodite? Why were they so attracted to each other, and what kept drawing them back together even after each had caused the other so much pain?
Their attraction was so passionate that it was irresistible. They were deeply connected—soul to soul—so it was inevitable that they could not stay away for good. That passion is rare, so reading about it is inspiring to me.
-Donna_M
Overall, what did you think of Aphrodite in Pieces? (No spoilers in this topic, please.)
I loved it. The writing was so intelligent, the story compelling. The goddess and her adventures were brought to life in such a refreshing manner. One of the best books I've read in a while,
-Donna_M
Ares leaves Aphrodite after the couple is discovered. Do you think he should have stood by her, defying Zeus, or did he do the right thing by ending the relationship?
Good point Janine. Ares' passion seemed to me to be desire but not love. At the same time, they were tied to each other. Your comment about a meditation on love is totally valid, and helpful if we notice it. Thanks!
-Donna_M
Aphrodite accuses the Graces of trying to “force happiness,” but Aglaia responds, “We don’t force happiness…we find it.” (p.100). What do you think she means?
I marked this quote, as it is how I try to live my life. I believe we will all have difficult situations and hardships and we can wallow in those troubles or accept those things and try to find the small things that bring us hope and a little happiness. I know it is over said, but some of life re...
-Dee_Driscole
Other than the main characters Aphrodite and Ares, which emerged as your favorites? Were there any that you despised?
It was easy to like Apollo for obvious reasons. Eros and his mischievous ways made me smile several times and I understood how Aphrodite did not want to discipline him as she felt the loss of parenting another child made her cautious and fearful of losing another.
-Catrina_A
To what audience would you recommend Aphrodite in Pieces? Is there another book or author you feel has a similar theme or style?
I think this book will find an audience with those that want Greek mythology retellings or a strong female character driven book.
-Dee_Driscole
The only god that truly befriends Aphrodite is Apollo. Why do you believe so few of the gods show sympathy for her?
Cheryl_T I agree. When I was in college, my girlfriend was beyond beautiful. I literally saw a guy drop his tray in the cafeteria when he saw her. I was shocked when she told me that she did not have any girlfriends, and she didn't really understand why. It took me a while to realize how mean oth...
-Dee_Driscole
When Aphrodite complains about Alexandros’s housekeeping, he responds, “I haven’t the time to maintain it.” She replies, “We make time for the things we truly want, don’t we?” (p. 65) Do you agree with her?
I mostly agree with her. If something is important to me, I will try to find time for it when I can. But I also think life can get in the way, and the things that are important to me, go further down the list. For example, the phone rings or I get emails or texts, they can also be listed as "urge...
-Dee_Driscole
Were you familiar with any of the myths the author includes in the narrative? Which ones? How did the author’s versions compare to those you recall?
I mostly know the myths as a myth lover having always been fascinated by all types of mythology. I also have been working on my own myth retelling and reimagining ideas and have used Lauren J.A. Bear's versions for a lot of references and enjoyed her versions quite a lot. I think Lauren J.A. bear...
-Andra_W
Why Do Men Go to War?
Kim, You are correct, FDR wanted to enter the war for humane reasons and also to assist the economy. However, he knew that the general population did not want another war after WWI. By having the US attacked it provided the push to enter the war. "It was for the American protection."
-Dee_Driscole
As he’s designing his statue of Aphrodite, Alexandros struggles with what to put in her hands. Did you have any thoughts as you were reading as to what would be appropriate? What do you feel about his final choice?
Wow, what a great question, I hadn't thought about it. I do like open hands; they are both seeking and ready to receive. An open hand allows for imagination and interaction with the viewer. It fits perfectly. Of course, the ending fits well, as it is a mystery and will never be completed…perfect ...
-Dee_Driscole
Paris tells Aphrodite that he’s loved Helen since they were children. He asks her, “Can first love be real? Is it childish to think the first hand I held could be the one I will hold until the end of days?” What do you think about this statement?
It happens. A few lucky people find their person immediately and hold on. Most of us have to go through a few attempts (or more) to find the right love for us. I don't think this is childish. I do think that pursuing Helen under these circumstances was naive and led to tragedy. Theirs was a tragi...
-Susan_L
Hera betrays Aphrodite several times throughout the novel, even after Aphrodite helps her seduce Zeus. Why do you suppose this is?
Jealousy. Pure and simple. Hera loves a man who betrays her at every step, so she trusts no woman, believing they will all fall for Zeus too. It is a sad way to live. Even when Aphrodite helps her, to her own detriment, Hera still betrays her in the name of love and devotion. It's ironic that her...
-Susan_L
Did you blame Aphrodite for cheating on her husband, Hephaestus, or do you think her actions were justified? He later traps her in bed with Ares and exposes the couple’s affair (pp 142-148). Do you think their punishment was fitting?
I wouldn't say justified, but the affair was understandable given the circumstances. They loved each other and were forced apart by Zeus. I do think that scene is where Aphrodite begins to grow in her role as a goddess. She takes the first hit of many and begins to break away and define herself. ...
-Susan_L
Aglaia, one of the Graces, tells Aphrodite that “War is desire made bloody.” (p. 20) What do you feel she means? Do you believe she’s correct?
I think she was letting Aphrodite that war comes from desire and that being the manifestation of desire makes the goddess' virtue lead to downfall. I think it was meant as a warning to Aphrodite to stay away from Ares. But throughout the novel, we find that war and love are connected and bear sim...
-Susan_L
What did you think of the author’s interpretation of Aphrodite and the other gods? Did any of her characterizations surprise you? How would you characterize Aphrodite?
It had been along time since I had read these myths, so my thoughts of each god had become shortened traits. The author made the god live again for me, as they became fully three dimensional with bad and good characteristics. I felt Aphrodite was described in a realistic way, and I liked that she...
-Dee_Driscole
Upcoming author Q&As
Wow, we've got some great authors dropping by over the next couple of months: 04/27-04/29: Donna Everhart ( https://www.bookbrowse.com/bb_briefs/detail/index.cfm/ezine_preview_number/22747/women-of-a-promiscuous-nature Women of a Promiscuous Nature ) 05/07-05/09: Amelia Ireland ( https://www.book...
-kim.kovacs
What are you reading this week? And what did you think of last week’s books? (4/23/2026)
I finished Aphrodite in Pieces by Lauren Bear for the online book club. It was a good read, nicely written and would recommend it to anyone looking for a strong female heroine. Lots of wisdom imparted that is timeless. Have just started Kin by Tayari Jones for my regular book club.
-Marilyn_M
If you were making a movie of Aphrodite in Pieces, who would you cast as the leads?
These are my choices: Aphrodite-Charlize Theron or Gal Gadot Ares-Sean Penn Zeus-Russell Crowe Apollo-Brad Pitt
-Patricia_Williams
Aphrodite in Pieces character list
Your list looks good to me.
-Janine_S
What are you reading this week? And what did you think of last week’s books? (4/16/2026)
Confessions of a Bookseller by Shaun Bythell sounds really good, @Roberta_Winchester ! I'll have to add that one to my list. I finished up https://www.bookbrowse.com/reviews/index.cfm/book_number/4840/the-flower-sisters The Flower Sisters by Michelle Collins Anderson, which I really enjoyed. I al...
-kim.kovacs
What are you reading this week? And what did you think of last week’s books? (4/09/2026)
I read https://www.bookbrowse.com/bb_briefs/detail/index.cfm/ezine_preview_number/22971/tailbone Tailbone by Che Yeun for review. Set in South Korea in 2008, just as the financial crisis hit, it's the story of a 17-year-old girl who runs away from home. A typical teen, she does no planning, just ...
-kim.kovacs
What are you reading this week? And what did you think of last week’s books? (4/02/2026)
Have you ever picked up the first book in a series that had a bunch of complicated plotlines, only to find that absolutely none of them resolved or even intersected in the first book? That describes Strains of Malice by Andrew Beardsmore, Book 1 of the Nessemiah series. It was enjoyable enough th...
-kim.kovacs
About the Aphrodite in Pieces by Lauren J. A. Bear category
Please join BookBrowse in a discussion of https://www.bookbrowse.com/bb_briefs/detail/index.cfm/ezine_preview_number/23264/aphrodite-in-pieces Aphrodite in Pieces by Lauren J.A. Bear.
-kim.kovacs
"[Lauren J. A.] Bear tackles Aphrodite in all her complexities...Perspective can change everything, and Bear is always interested in giving victimized women of mythology a voice, even extremely powerful figures like Aphrodite...With beautiful, reflective prose, this retelling will appeal to fans of Bear's previous work or Greek mythology retellings in general." —Library Journal (starred review)
"Writing in eloquent and elegant prose that Sappho herself would prize, Bear deftly illuminates the endlessly compelling story of one of mythology's most famous figures. Not only are readers treated to an Aphrodite who is flirtatious, funny, and fierce in equal measures, Bear also thoughtfully explores age-old topics such as the meaning and power of beauty, love, and art." —Booklist
"Aphrodite in Pieces had me hooked from page one. Bear's voice is heartbreaking in its lyricism, painting a picture of the goddess of love that feels both painfully human and impossibly divine. An utter triumph, a masterpiece!" —Emily Rath, New York Times bestselling author of North is the Night
"The love story! Bear's Aphrodite in Pieces is a work of art that will leave you contemplating the meanings of love and beauty long after you put it down. A must read for every Greek mythology lover!" —Jo Segura, USA Today bestselling author of The Lust Crusade
This information about Aphrodite in Pieces was first featured
in "The BookBrowse Review" - BookBrowse's membership magazine, and in our weekly "Publishing This Week" newsletter. Publication information is for the USA, and (unless stated otherwise) represents the first print edition. The reviews are necessarily limited to those that were available to us ahead of publication. If you are the publisher or author and feel that they do not properly reflect the range of media opinion now available, send us a message with the mainstream reviews that you would like to see added.
Any "Author Information" displayed below reflects the author's biography at the time this particular book was published.
Lauren J. A. Bear was born in Boston and raised in Long Beach. After studying English at UCLA and education at LMU, she taught middle-school humanities for over a decade—and survived! She is a teaching fellow for the Holocaust Center for Humanity and lives in Seattle with her husband and three young children. She likes crossword puzzles and being on or near the water without getting wet. She is the author of Mother of Rome, Medusa's Sisters, and Aphrodite in Pieces.
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