A compelling insight into the lives of the great polar explorers, through the eyes of the women who inspired them – this is the story of seven remarkable women. Drawing on her own experience as an explorer's daughter, and using extracts from journals and letters, the author blends accounts of longing, betrayal and hope with tales of adventure.



Heart of the Hero' gives a compelling insight into the lives of some of the world’s most famous explorers, through the eyes of the women who inspired them to achieve great things. Author Kari Herbert explores the unpredictable, often heartbreaking stories of seven remarkable women who were indispensable companions, intrepid travellers and sometimes even the driving force behind our best-loved polar heroes, such as Scott and Shackleton. Drawing on her own unique experience as the daughter of a pioneering polar explorer, and using extracts from previously unpublished historic journals and letters, Herbert blends deeply personal accounts of longing, betrayal and hope with tales of peril and adventure.