What do you think?
Rate this book
Medusa
An intimate look into the life of a legendary mythical villain who has so often been stripped of her voice and humanity in this debut novel, perfect for fans of Madeline Miller’s Circe and the works of Jennifer Saint.
You know how Medusa’s story ends, but you’ve never heard her tell her own story… until now.
The only mortal daughter of two sea gods, and a priestess of Athena, Medusa was a woman who thought she had found her place in the world. But when Medusa suffers a horrific violation at the hands of Poseidon, Athena is outraged over the desecration of her name and sends a message by transforming Medusa into the snake-haired monster of legend. With one look, any who meet her gaze is turned to stone. Word of her monstrosity travels fast, igniting a king’s fear so greatly that he commands the boy-hero Perseus to bring him her head. With a power that will spare no one, Medusa begins to wonder if this is a blessing or a curse. Medusa only knows that she must leave the city she has come to call home before she harms another soul.
Searching for a haven free from mortals, anger buoying her every step, Medusa journeys across ancient Greece. Her eyes are hidden beneath a blindfold, with nothing but the snakes for company. Through her travels, Medusa discovers solace and understanding in the mythical figures she stumbles upon: A debaucherous wine god, an alluring nymph, and a three-headed dog. But one cannot escape fate forever. As Perseus closes in, Medusa faces a choice: become the monster everyone expects her to be, or cling to the last piece of her humanity.
You know how Medusa’s story ends, but you’ve never heard her tell her own story… until now.
The only mortal daughter of two sea gods, and a priestess of Athena, Medusa was a woman who thought she had found her place in the world. But when Medusa suffers a horrific violation at the hands of Poseidon, Athena is outraged over the desecration of her name and sends a message by transforming Medusa into the snake-haired monster of legend. With one look, any who meet her gaze is turned to stone. Word of her monstrosity travels fast, igniting a king’s fear so greatly that he commands the boy-hero Perseus to bring him her head. With a power that will spare no one, Medusa begins to wonder if this is a blessing or a curse. Medusa only knows that she must leave the city she has come to call home before she harms another soul.
Searching for a haven free from mortals, anger buoying her every step, Medusa journeys across ancient Greece. Her eyes are hidden beneath a blindfold, with nothing but the snakes for company. Through her travels, Medusa discovers solace and understanding in the mythical figures she stumbles upon: A debaucherous wine god, an alluring nymph, and a three-headed dog. But one cannot escape fate forever. As Perseus closes in, Medusa faces a choice: become the monster everyone expects her to be, or cling to the last piece of her humanity.
432 pages, ebook
First published August 13, 2024
255 people are currently reading
10214 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 369 reviews
November 7, 2024
this is by far the best depiction of the medusa myth and all those involved within the story that i have ever read (and i have read so, so many)
August 22, 2024
The story of Medusa has always intrigued me but also filled me with rage. I've noticed some people may not know the backstory and that she is actually a survivor. This is a great feminist take where we get to see Medusa's point of view in a more intimate and personal way. The way she uses her curse to find self-love is lovely and I loved the relationships she built along the way. A lot of it was so bittersweet and my heart did hurt for her.
It can get a little slow at some parts but that's to be expected with any greek mythology retelling, in my opinion. The audiobook was done well, I enjoyed the narrator. Thank you NetGalley and Hatchett Audio for the advanced copy of this book!
It can get a little slow at some parts but that's to be expected with any greek mythology retelling, in my opinion. The audiobook was done well, I enjoyed the narrator. Thank you NetGalley and Hatchett Audio for the advanced copy of this book!
March 29, 2025
3 stars = Good and worthwhile.
“A monstrous woman is not a terrible thing to be.”
Started strong and had decent prose. I enjoyed the author’s twist on Medusa and Athena. On the other hand, it also contained historically inaccurate dialogue for ancient times (“No shit”, “That’s absolute bullshit”) which is always a negative distraction that breaks immersion.
“I was strange, right from the beginning.”
Towards the end it regrettably began to feel like a YA read and a self-help book. Would recommend to forgiving readers that enjoy feminist mythological retellings.
“Love was a human fault, a mortal emotion the gods did not have the patience nor the desperation to entertain.”
---------------------
First Sentence: I was born the only mortal daughter of a god of the sea and a goddess of sea dangers.
Favorite Quote: Beware a woman who gives power to her emotions. She can tear the world apart with her bare hands.
“A monstrous woman is not a terrible thing to be.”
Started strong and had decent prose. I enjoyed the author’s twist on Medusa and Athena. On the other hand, it also contained historically inaccurate dialogue for ancient times (“No shit”, “That’s absolute bullshit”) which is always a negative distraction that breaks immersion.
“I was strange, right from the beginning.”
Towards the end it regrettably began to feel like a YA read and a self-help book. Would recommend to forgiving readers that enjoy feminist mythological retellings.
“Love was a human fault, a mortal emotion the gods did not have the patience nor the desperation to entertain.”
---------------------
First Sentence: I was born the only mortal daughter of a god of the sea and a goddess of sea dangers.
Favorite Quote: Beware a woman who gives power to her emotions. She can tear the world apart with her bare hands.
August 12, 2024
I love a good feminist Greek mythology retelling and for some reason the Medusa story is particularly interesting for me.
Many books have been written about Medusa by new to me author, Nataly Gruender really did a great job personalizing Medusa. I especially enjoyed the emphasis in this book on Medusa's relationship with Athena and how she cursed Medusa.
Great on audio and highly recommended for fans of authors like Natalie Hayes or Jennifer Saint. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early audio and gifted finished copy of this new release!
Many books have been written about Medusa by new to me author, Nataly Gruender really did a great job personalizing Medusa. I especially enjoyed the emphasis in this book on Medusa's relationship with Athena and how she cursed Medusa.
Great on audio and highly recommended for fans of authors like Natalie Hayes or Jennifer Saint. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early audio and gifted finished copy of this new release!
September 15, 2024
I have always had a fondness for classic stories retold through the eyes of the Other. John Gardner’s retelling of Beowulf (“Grendel”) and Margaret Atwood’s “Penelopiad,” offering a different version of the Odyssey come immediately to mind.
So, I was eager to read Nataly Gruender’s take on the myth of Medusa, told from the vantage point of the “Monster.”
There’s a lot to like in this book, Medusa’s story, up to the moment of her fateful meeting with an Olympian God, moves smoothly and engages us. We know what Medusa will become (though she does not), but we hope that she will escape her fate. But in this mythology, Fate is not to be eluded. Punished unfairly, she is turned into a monster and forced to flee. At this point, the novel takes on a distinctly feminist perspective. Although that perspective is kept in balance for the next few chapters, it begins (at least in my opinion, to take over the narrative. Medusa, in other words, becomes “Me-Too-Sa.” There’s nothing wrong, of course, with a work of fiction acting as a scaffolding for ideological statements, but I heard that scaffolding creaking through the last few chapters.
Your mileage may vary.
So, I was eager to read Nataly Gruender’s take on the myth of Medusa, told from the vantage point of the “Monster.”
There’s a lot to like in this book, Medusa’s story, up to the moment of her fateful meeting with an Olympian God, moves smoothly and engages us. We know what Medusa will become (though she does not), but we hope that she will escape her fate. But in this mythology, Fate is not to be eluded. Punished unfairly, she is turned into a monster and forced to flee. At this point, the novel takes on a distinctly feminist perspective. Although that perspective is kept in balance for the next few chapters, it begins (at least in my opinion, to take over the narrative. Medusa, in other words, becomes “Me-Too-Sa.” There’s nothing wrong, of course, with a work of fiction acting as a scaffolding for ideological statements, but I heard that scaffolding creaking through the last few chapters.
Your mileage may vary.
August 30, 2024
This is a 2 stars at its best, but because I read this entirely in Greece (while visiting the Acropolis and Parthenon) that I am adding another star - just for vibes.
There was no coherent arc for the story and it’s very much a debut. I did enjoy Medusa’s relationship with her snake-hair, and that’s about the highlight of the book for me!
There was no coherent arc for the story and it’s very much a debut. I did enjoy Medusa’s relationship with her snake-hair, and that’s about the highlight of the book for me!
June 2, 2025
Lai arī man patiešām patīk dažādu mītu pārstāstu versijas un stāsti, kur mums uz notikumiem liek paskatīties no cita skatu punkta, nebiju gatava tam, cik ļoti būšu sajūsmā par šo.
Ļoti emocionāla un feministiska grāmata. Mītu par Medūzu Gorgonu zinu jau kopš mazotnes un nojautu, kurām versijām piesliesies autore, tāpēc negaidīju, ka man nāksies pat raudāt. It kā jā, sengrieķu dievi un varoņi, burvestības un viss kā nākas - bet tā netaisnība tik reālistiska un caur kauliem sajūtama.
Un pāri visam - šī izrādījās grāmata par sevis pieņemšanu. Gandrīz terapeitiska.
Ļoti emocionāla un feministiska grāmata. Mītu par Medūzu Gorgonu zinu jau kopš mazotnes un nojautu, kurām versijām piesliesies autore, tāpēc negaidīju, ka man nāksies pat raudāt. It kā jā, sengrieķu dievi un varoņi, burvestības un viss kā nākas - bet tā netaisnība tik reālistiska un caur kauliem sajūtama.
Un pāri visam - šī izrādījās grāmata par sevis pieņemšanu. Gandrīz terapeitiska.
August 9, 2024
An intimate and emotional Greek mythology retelling of Medusa’s story from the point of view of Medusa herself. We follow Medusa as she departs from her parents and sister Gorgons to study at the temple of Athena as a priestess. The events following this (no spoilers if you are unfamiliar with Medusa’s mythology) are difficult to read, but told with care and intention. Much like Madeline Miller’s Circe, we get to see a misunderstood and villainized character tell their side of the story.
What I loved most about this was how we got to see Medusa’s humanity and her longing to heal and find community even after her curse. Her bond with her sisters was lovely to see and experience as a reader. Much like my experience reading Circe, I found myself emotional and rooting for our main character, wanting the best for her despite knowing the how the story will end. This was simultaneously heartbreaking and heartwarming and honestly up there with my favorite Greek mythology retellings that I’ve read.
4.25-4.5
I also listened to the audiobook and recommend it.
Thank you to NetGalley for the advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
What I loved most about this was how we got to see Medusa’s humanity and her longing to heal and find community even after her curse. Her bond with her sisters was lovely to see and experience as a reader. Much like my experience reading Circe, I found myself emotional and rooting for our main character, wanting the best for her despite knowing the how the story will end. This was simultaneously heartbreaking and heartwarming and honestly up there with my favorite Greek mythology retellings that I’ve read.
4.25-4.5
I also listened to the audiobook and recommend it.
Thank you to NetGalley for the advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 6, 2024
Medusa (audio) 4.5⭐️
“A monsterous woman is not a terrible thing to be.”
What a great retelling of Medusa! This gives the reader an opportunity to see the full picture of who Medusa was when typically she’s seen only as a viscous monster. The storytelling and conversation were more modern than typical mythology stories that have an ancient feel. It made it easier for me to connect.
I’m a fan of narrator Helen Laser and she didn’t a great job, as usual.
Thank you NetGalley and Hachette Audio for this audio ARC. This review will be shared on NetGalley, Goodreads, and Amazon.
Pub Date Aug 13 2024
“A monsterous woman is not a terrible thing to be.”
What a great retelling of Medusa! This gives the reader an opportunity to see the full picture of who Medusa was when typically she’s seen only as a viscous monster. The storytelling and conversation were more modern than typical mythology stories that have an ancient feel. It made it easier for me to connect.
I’m a fan of narrator Helen Laser and she didn’t a great job, as usual.
Thank you NetGalley and Hachette Audio for this audio ARC. This review will be shared on NetGalley, Goodreads, and Amazon.
Pub Date Aug 13 2024
August 1, 2024
The story of #Medusa told from her point of view. I appreciate the author’s putting thought into and bringing to life her girlhood, then imagining how she came to have snakes for hair and a petrifying stare. The immutability of prophecies seemed odd and none was particularly cryptic. Don’t get me started on giving birth spontaneously from one’s neck or thigh - this is something I’ve know about but never heard a detailed description. Gods’ bodies are clearly different than those of mere mortals!
The book includes a Dionysian adventure, Medusa’s sea-borne lover, interesting descriptions of time’s passage, and ways in which she and her sisters were neglected by their busy parents. There’s also a strong feminist story behind Medusa’s tale as this author imagines it. If it gets a little preachy at the end, we can all use the reminder of what’s not OK.
My thanks to the author, publisher, audiobook producer, and #NetGalley for providing an advance copy of the audiobook for review purposes. Publication date is Aug 13, 2024.
The book includes a Dionysian adventure, Medusa’s sea-borne lover, interesting descriptions of time’s passage, and ways in which she and her sisters were neglected by their busy parents. There’s also a strong feminist story behind Medusa’s tale as this author imagines it. If it gets a little preachy at the end, we can all use the reminder of what’s not OK.
My thanks to the author, publisher, audiobook producer, and #NetGalley for providing an advance copy of the audiobook for review purposes. Publication date is Aug 13, 2024.
July 26, 2024
4 stars
The phrase that first comes to mind for this one? "Pleasantly surprised!"
As fans of mythological retellings know, there's been a real boom in this arena over the past decade, and even more prominently in the past three or four years. While some of these retellings are absolutely mind blowing and life changing and make me temporarily wish to be immortal just to read even more, others leave readers wanting much, much more. This is one of the good ones.
Medusa's story is grim, to say the least, so this makes her an ideal character to pick up in a feminist retelling. She's disempowered in several obvious ways, so giving her a voice on its own is already one huge step in the correct direction! For folks who are not aware of Medusa's origins, or at least the origins of her snakes and *special* skills, those who have a difficult time with reading about rape or related impacts may want to look elsewhere (including outside of Greek mythology, unfortunately). While many of Medusa's known outcomes stem from this specific event, there's much more to her, and Gruender nicely articulates a more comprehensive world. Highlights include but are not limited to Medusa's relationships with Athena and her snakes (the latter of which is my favorite part of this book).
At times, the narrative can be more succinct. I'm not out here trying to silence Medusa, but I also think the impact could be stronger with some economizing. That noted, this is an intriguing tale and approach, and I will absolutely add it to the list of recommended retellings for my Myth students.
*Special thanks to NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing for this alc, which I received in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
The phrase that first comes to mind for this one? "Pleasantly surprised!"
As fans of mythological retellings know, there's been a real boom in this arena over the past decade, and even more prominently in the past three or four years. While some of these retellings are absolutely mind blowing and life changing and make me temporarily wish to be immortal just to read even more, others leave readers wanting much, much more. This is one of the good ones.
Medusa's story is grim, to say the least, so this makes her an ideal character to pick up in a feminist retelling. She's disempowered in several obvious ways, so giving her a voice on its own is already one huge step in the correct direction! For folks who are not aware of Medusa's origins, or at least the origins of her snakes and *special* skills, those who have a difficult time with reading about rape or related impacts may want to look elsewhere (including outside of Greek mythology, unfortunately). While many of Medusa's known outcomes stem from this specific event, there's much more to her, and Gruender nicely articulates a more comprehensive world. Highlights include but are not limited to Medusa's relationships with Athena and her snakes (the latter of which is my favorite part of this book).
At times, the narrative can be more succinct. I'm not out here trying to silence Medusa, but I also think the impact could be stronger with some economizing. That noted, this is an intriguing tale and approach, and I will absolutely add it to the list of recommended retellings for my Myth students.
*Special thanks to NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing for this alc, which I received in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
August 30, 2024
This one is not good, y'all. From the language that veers between modern vernacular and a BBC period piece, a deeply frustrating end, this is not great. Sometimes it seems like the author is bringing things to her writing that she really should have done in therapy instead, and sometimes she seems aware that she might not get another book so she puts every little cozy-aside that comes to her. The treatment of sexual assault and the resulting conflict with Athena make me very suspicious that the author is not out of their 20s (and I'd guess at not more than 25). The book is probably 200 pages too long, and just so, so frustrating. I wanted to like this. I did not.
September 4, 2024
GUH!! This book had me feeling all the feels!!
Medusa's storyis a famous one but the truth of her is far more heartbreaking than people really know. This book was amazing! I loved the relationship between Medusa and her snakes, it was a really amazing part of the story. It really humanises Medusa in a truly beautiful way.
I did think the pace was a bit slow but the narrator did a wonderful job of keeping the story engaging and I enjoyed the heck out of it.
4 stars
Medusa's storyis a famous one but the truth of her is far more heartbreaking than people really know. This book was amazing! I loved the relationship between Medusa and her snakes, it was a really amazing part of the story. It really humanises Medusa in a truly beautiful way.
I did think the pace was a bit slow but the narrator did a wonderful job of keeping the story engaging and I enjoyed the heck out of it.
4 stars
October 20, 2024
I wanted to love this but it was just okay. I was super intrigued in the beginning and then once Medusa gets cursed, it gets kind of boring for a while. Also, there are prophecies so you know exactly where the story is going, which can be okay in certain cases but the journey to getting there just wasn’t that interesting. The book did pick pick up again in the final third and I enjoyed most of that but then there’s this moment with Athena towards the end that just feels like a very heavy handed way of sharing the message of the story. But it also didn’t really fit with Athena as the goddess of wisdom. Also, some of the language was extremely modern, which doesn’t usually bother me, but it was noticeable here.
September 15, 2024
Everyone knows the stories of Medusa turning men to stone with just a flick of her eyes, but how many of you actually know the story behind her making?
I started this book with a decent understanding of Medusa and her history but walked away with so much more.
Medusa has always been portrayed as a monster, but that isn't really the whole story. She was born the only mortal child of two sea God's and experienced loneliness and neglect due to her mortal status. She became a priestess of Athena and sought to do good. In a turn of events that were out of her hands, she was cursed and thrown out of the temple that was her home. With a head full of snakes and the inability to look at any living creature without turning them to stone, she sets out to find safety for herself and others. Along the way, she experiences some cognitive dissonance as she works through her anger and adapts to her new life. It's so easy to let fear and anger consume you and seek revenge when you have been wronged, but it's even harder to let go of your morals when you are a good person.
What an insightful and fascinating retelling of such a well-known greek "villain". This story absolutely filled me with rage for Medusa and for women in general. Yet the lessons we learn from Medusa definitely make this a must-read.
Thank you, NetGalley, Grand Central Publishing, and Hachette Audio, for advanced copies of Medusa by Nataly Gruender in exchange for an honest review. It was an exceptional read! I also listened to the audiobook, which I loved because Helen Laser is a phenomenal narrator.
I started this book with a decent understanding of Medusa and her history but walked away with so much more.
Medusa has always been portrayed as a monster, but that isn't really the whole story. She was born the only mortal child of two sea God's and experienced loneliness and neglect due to her mortal status. She became a priestess of Athena and sought to do good. In a turn of events that were out of her hands, she was cursed and thrown out of the temple that was her home. With a head full of snakes and the inability to look at any living creature without turning them to stone, she sets out to find safety for herself and others. Along the way, she experiences some cognitive dissonance as she works through her anger and adapts to her new life. It's so easy to let fear and anger consume you and seek revenge when you have been wronged, but it's even harder to let go of your morals when you are a good person.
What an insightful and fascinating retelling of such a well-known greek "villain". This story absolutely filled me with rage for Medusa and for women in general. Yet the lessons we learn from Medusa definitely make this a must-read.
Thank you, NetGalley, Grand Central Publishing, and Hachette Audio, for advanced copies of Medusa by Nataly Gruender in exchange for an honest review. It was an exceptional read! I also listened to the audiobook, which I loved because Helen Laser is a phenomenal narrator.
October 31, 2024
an interesting feminist retelling of medusa, considering i’ve read quite a few in the past year and a half.
two things that stand out to me the most are:
1) the author’s depiction of dionysus, as i don’t think i’ve ever read a medusa retelling with this godly interaction; typically i feel authors showcase dionysus as a crazy, wine addled god, but in gruender’s retelling we see a protector of women, which i rather appreciated
and 2) the fact that the author creates a relationship between medusa and her snakes; they are not just apart of her due to the curse, but become integral to her initial survival by making her aware of different aspects of nature she previously paid little attention to, and eventually become cherished friends/family
two things that stand out to me the most are:
1) the author’s depiction of dionysus, as i don’t think i’ve ever read a medusa retelling with this godly interaction; typically i feel authors showcase dionysus as a crazy, wine addled god, but in gruender’s retelling we see a protector of women, which i rather appreciated
and 2) the fact that the author creates a relationship between medusa and her snakes; they are not just apart of her due to the curse, but become integral to her initial survival by making her aware of different aspects of nature she previously paid little attention to, and eventually become cherished friends/family
May 23, 2024
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
August 13, 2024
I had been in a mythology rut until I read this book. After Song of Achilles and Ariadne, I was hooked on this genre but nothing could really give me the same high I had after those two reads. Circe, I hated, Hera, depressed me...this one won my heart. Let's be honest, everyone knows the tale of Medusa, or they think they do. Snakes for hair, turns people to stone, killed by Perseus. But she is so much more than that, we often forget the human side of the heroes and villains in these tales and it was wonderful to get to be exposed to the human aspect of Medusa, who was really just a girl put in a terrible situation (as always by an all powerful male god). I highly recommend this read if you are looking for a mythology book to grip you. I loved the copy of the audiobook ARC I received from NetGalley, the narrator adds to the story.
August 11, 2024
Through an interesting turn of fate, I received this book at the same time I was given access to Stone Blind. Knowing I had wanted to read Stone Blind for a while, I was super curious to do a comparison of them and how these two retellings would tackle the same subject. I was a bit nervous that it would be repetitive but it was very clear early on these are two very different stories.
Nataly Gruender’s Medusa is an intimate portrayal of a woman whose life is fated away from what she desired. With the majority of the narrative being in Medusa’s voice herself, Gruender did a fantastic job taking us through Medusa’s conflicting emotions as a pawn of the gods. Her connections on her journey were touching and at the end of the story I really loved the narrative with her sisters.
I truly enjoyed this story. Even if you have read Stone Blind, I think this retelling has a different, more intimate, view that makes it totally worth while
Thank you NetGalley and Hatchett Audio for the ARC of Medusa.
Nataly Gruender’s Medusa is an intimate portrayal of a woman whose life is fated away from what she desired. With the majority of the narrative being in Medusa’s voice herself, Gruender did a fantastic job taking us through Medusa’s conflicting emotions as a pawn of the gods. Her connections on her journey were touching and at the end of the story I really loved the narrative with her sisters.
I truly enjoyed this story. Even if you have read Stone Blind, I think this retelling has a different, more intimate, view that makes it totally worth while
Thank you NetGalley and Hatchett Audio for the ARC of Medusa.
August 25, 2024
YESSSS. This is exactly what I wanted out of this book. The perfect retelling that had me laughing and crying and cheesing so hard. Love Medusa’s story so much and the author did our strong girl so much justice.
January 8, 2025
I really enjoyed this retelling, but there was a lot of modern language that felt out of place. I also feel like some parts could have been cut out and other aspects added
April 13, 2024
✨MINI ARC REVIEW✨
I want to thank @netgalley and @grandcentralpub for a copy of this book for my honest review.
Everyone knows the story of Medusa, but no one knows it quite like this.
I was so amazed going into this book with the way that Medusa is so fleshed out. From her estranged relationship with her sisters that slowly heals overtime to her time in Athena’s temple, tedious as it may have been. This author digs deep and creates a captivating story that pulls you in the longer you read.
It was heartbreaking to read the abuse that she suffered, not only at Poseidon’s hands but also inadvertently Athena’s. Watching her get punished in a war between the gods, knowing she is a victim pulled on my heartstrings. She is an innocent caught in a battle she never should have been apart of.
The way she tried to get used to her monstrous form, the people she met along the way- not only those she turned to stone but those who learned who Medusa was on the inside and got past her appearance. The way she almost had love…
Prophecies that set the world against Medusa before she ever step foot into it… doomed from the start, but still managing to live.
I will say there were a FEW moments that read on the slow side, but they were far between. I didn’t want to put the book down. This is shaping up to be one of the better books I’ve read in 2024 so far and I can’t wait to see what else is to come from this author.
I want to thank @netgalley and @grandcentralpub for a copy of this book for my honest review.
Everyone knows the story of Medusa, but no one knows it quite like this.
I was so amazed going into this book with the way that Medusa is so fleshed out. From her estranged relationship with her sisters that slowly heals overtime to her time in Athena’s temple, tedious as it may have been. This author digs deep and creates a captivating story that pulls you in the longer you read.
It was heartbreaking to read the abuse that she suffered, not only at Poseidon’s hands but also inadvertently Athena’s. Watching her get punished in a war between the gods, knowing she is a victim pulled on my heartstrings. She is an innocent caught in a battle she never should have been apart of.
The way she tried to get used to her monstrous form, the people she met along the way- not only those she turned to stone but those who learned who Medusa was on the inside and got past her appearance. The way she almost had love…
Prophecies that set the world against Medusa before she ever step foot into it… doomed from the start, but still managing to live.
I will say there were a FEW moments that read on the slow side, but they were far between. I didn’t want to put the book down. This is shaping up to be one of the better books I’ve read in 2024 so far and I can’t wait to see what else is to come from this author.
August 2, 2024
Full review to come but I cried for like 75% of this book. Medusa is going to stay in my heart forever.
Thank you so much to NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
"A monstrous woman is not a terrible thing to be"
As is probably evident by the title, this is a retelling of the story of Medusa. Medusa has been misunderstood for a long time but I love the new understanding we are getting of her with the change in society and the influence of feminism. Medusa was a priestess at one of Athena's temples when she is assaulted by Poseidon. To avoid a conflict among the gods Athena takes out her 'justice' on Medusa in the form of her ability to turn anyone to stone with just one look. This 'curse' is the double edge sword of making Medusa deadly to her enemies and those who would harm her as well as those she loves. While Medusa has historically been a plot point in the stories of others, this is Medusa's story. This is the story of choosing who you're going to be when you are given no choices about what happens to you. A situation I and many other women can easily relate to.
Not only is Medusa beautifully written, but the insights it gives into what actually makes a monster and who we have historically celebrated for monstrous acts is what makes this book so magical. This is absolutely a character driven plot so if following Medusa around while she tries to find contentment in her situation does not appeal to you, this might not be the story for you. Throughout the story you watch Medusa fall in love, find comfort in the sister that she can relate to on an even deeper level now, and reconnect with her sisters, the other Gorgons. Until she is ultimately murdered (yes, it was murder) by Perseus who calls her a monster for her curse then uses it even more intentionally than Medusa ever did. The author appropriately then poses the question of who the real monster is. There are so many beautiful pieces of the story. Watching Echidna love Medusa unconditionally for who and what she is, watching Medusa fall in love with her nephew who is a 3 headed dog, and watching Stheno and Euryale and Medusa heal their relationship as sisters and show support by just being there. Medusa's relationship with her snakes turned out to be one of my favorite parts. She did not ask for them, yet she learns to love them as part of herself.
Gruender also utilizes some really interesting narrative Techniques such as changing POVs for characters that don't spend much time in the overall story just to add an additional level of depth. I thought I would hate it, but I ended up loving the change in perspective since a changing perspective is the whole point of this book
I am torn on how this book will be received because for some this will just be another mythology retelling but for others, this will capture so many of the feelings they have had themselves and it will speak to them in a very real way. This book might not be for everyone but those it will be for will fall madly in love. I would follow Medusa and her snakes anywhere. I will also spend my foreseeable future spreading the gospel of this book far and wide.
Thank you so much to NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
"A monstrous woman is not a terrible thing to be"
As is probably evident by the title, this is a retelling of the story of Medusa. Medusa has been misunderstood for a long time but I love the new understanding we are getting of her with the change in society and the influence of feminism. Medusa was a priestess at one of Athena's temples when she is assaulted by Poseidon. To avoid a conflict among the gods Athena takes out her 'justice' on Medusa in the form of her ability to turn anyone to stone with just one look. This 'curse' is the double edge sword of making Medusa deadly to her enemies and those who would harm her as well as those she loves. While Medusa has historically been a plot point in the stories of others, this is Medusa's story. This is the story of choosing who you're going to be when you are given no choices about what happens to you. A situation I and many other women can easily relate to.
Not only is Medusa beautifully written, but the insights it gives into what actually makes a monster and who we have historically celebrated for monstrous acts is what makes this book so magical. This is absolutely a character driven plot so if following Medusa around while she tries to find contentment in her situation does not appeal to you, this might not be the story for you. Throughout the story you watch Medusa fall in love, find comfort in the sister that she can relate to on an even deeper level now, and reconnect with her sisters, the other Gorgons. Until she is ultimately murdered (yes, it was murder) by Perseus who calls her a monster for her curse then uses it even more intentionally than Medusa ever did. The author appropriately then poses the question of who the real monster is. There are so many beautiful pieces of the story. Watching Echidna love Medusa unconditionally for who and what she is, watching Medusa fall in love with her nephew who is a 3 headed dog, and watching Stheno and Euryale and Medusa heal their relationship as sisters and show support by just being there. Medusa's relationship with her snakes turned out to be one of my favorite parts. She did not ask for them, yet she learns to love them as part of herself.
Gruender also utilizes some really interesting narrative Techniques such as changing POVs for characters that don't spend much time in the overall story just to add an additional level of depth. I thought I would hate it, but I ended up loving the change in perspective since a changing perspective is the whole point of this book
I am torn on how this book will be received because for some this will just be another mythology retelling but for others, this will capture so many of the feelings they have had themselves and it will speak to them in a very real way. This book might not be for everyone but those it will be for will fall madly in love. I would follow Medusa and her snakes anywhere. I will also spend my foreseeable future spreading the gospel of this book far and wide.
August 16, 2024
Thanks to NetGalley and Hachette Audio for an advanced copy of the audiobook.
3.75 stars
Medusa is a symbol nowadays. A mythological figure with so much meaning and power for many women. If you feel for her, if you are looking for a retelling of her story; one done with care, love and respect, I think you will enjoy this book. I think your appreciation will grow even more after reading Gruender's take on Medusa's story.
Medusa is the daughter of Phorcys and Ceto. One of the three sister known as the Gorgon. But as opposed to her immortal beautiful sisters, Medusa was born a mortal. Because of it, she was always apart.
Medusa, Stheno and Euryale grew up together in a little house at the beach. Their parent, divinities of the sea, barely visited them. So Medusa's childhood was lonely, her sisters always mocking her and ignoring her. One day, at the celebration of Echidna's wedding, one of Medusa's older siblings, Medusa receives a prophecy. A monstrous future awaits her.
This is the fateful night that changes Medusa's life forever. That day, she meets both Athena and Poseidon and her fate is written.
If you know her story, later Medusa becomes a priestess for Athena. And after, Poseidon will assault her in Athena's temple. Because of it, for this desecration, Athena will punish Medusa. She will become a monster in mortals eyes, and later she'll be hunted by Perseus. This book, however, examines Medusa's whole life with such care, she knows her fate, yet the growth she goes through from transformation to death is so beautifully done. From rage, to shame, to acceptance of both her fate and herself, everything is done with much love for this character.
Medusa's journey is one full of tragedy, but also one with a peaceful end. One where she finds people to love, and people who love her back. One where her monstrous snakes become her beloved companions.
I think one of the strength of this retelling is that, as opposed to others, the character of Medusa internally changes and grows so much. And this is done in an organic way. The problem for me with Greek retellings is that, once the prophecy is revealed you are just waiting for that tragic thing to happen. It feels like the plot meanders, like the middle part of the book is very shallow. With this book though, even if Medusa is just travelling around after her transformation, all the people she crosses path with, all of those moments help her understand herself and her fate. She stops being ashamed and scared, and it's so good to see that.
As for the narration, I think Helen Laser does a wonderful job conveying Medusa's inner thoughts, and she especially shines in emotional scenes. I really liked the audiobook overall.
3.75 stars
Medusa is a symbol nowadays. A mythological figure with so much meaning and power for many women. If you feel for her, if you are looking for a retelling of her story; one done with care, love and respect, I think you will enjoy this book. I think your appreciation will grow even more after reading Gruender's take on Medusa's story.
Medusa is the daughter of Phorcys and Ceto. One of the three sister known as the Gorgon. But as opposed to her immortal beautiful sisters, Medusa was born a mortal. Because of it, she was always apart.
Medusa, Stheno and Euryale grew up together in a little house at the beach. Their parent, divinities of the sea, barely visited them. So Medusa's childhood was lonely, her sisters always mocking her and ignoring her. One day, at the celebration of Echidna's wedding, one of Medusa's older siblings, Medusa receives a prophecy. A monstrous future awaits her.
This is the fateful night that changes Medusa's life forever. That day, she meets both Athena and Poseidon and her fate is written.
If you know her story, later Medusa becomes a priestess for Athena. And after, Poseidon will assault her in Athena's temple. Because of it, for this desecration, Athena will punish Medusa. She will become a monster in mortals eyes, and later she'll be hunted by Perseus. This book, however, examines Medusa's whole life with such care, she knows her fate, yet the growth she goes through from transformation to death is so beautifully done. From rage, to shame, to acceptance of both her fate and herself, everything is done with much love for this character.
Medusa's journey is one full of tragedy, but also one with a peaceful end. One where she finds people to love, and people who love her back. One where her monstrous snakes become her beloved companions.
I think one of the strength of this retelling is that, as opposed to others, the character of Medusa internally changes and grows so much. And this is done in an organic way. The problem for me with Greek retellings is that, once the prophecy is revealed you are just waiting for that tragic thing to happen. It feels like the plot meanders, like the middle part of the book is very shallow. With this book though, even if Medusa is just travelling around after her transformation, all the people she crosses path with, all of those moments help her understand herself and her fate. She stops being ashamed and scared, and it's so good to see that.
As for the narration, I think Helen Laser does a wonderful job conveying Medusa's inner thoughts, and she especially shines in emotional scenes. I really liked the audiobook overall.
December 2, 2024
You may be familiar with this story, or you may not be. Either way, you've surely heard her name. In this incredible retelling of one of the most popular and enduring Greek myths, Gruender puts Medusa centre-stage and allows her to tell her own story in her own voice. It's sharp, angry, passionate, and fierce; the writing is gorgeous and Medusa's voice is clear and loud. It's dark, uncomfortable, and purposefully so. It's also uncompromising and unapologetic in its approach to what is a very important story, and manages to maintain both the feel of a "Classic" slash mythology story while also reminding us of its timelessness and modern relevance - brilliant. It's a tragedy and a horror, an examination of agency and victim blaming and assault and power dynamics, it's sympathetic and honest and powerful. It's also just a fantastic piece of fantasy, with wonderful world building and rich characters. Those familiar with Greek mythology will welcome this retelling, those new to it will find so much to adore. It reminds me a lot of Madeline Miller's "Circe", too, in tone and style and approach. I just really loved it. Do read the author's note at the beginning, though, and also check the content warnings, as it is quite intense.
December 4, 2024
I was upset when my book group picked this for our next meeting. Medusa has always been the character in Greek mythology who breaks my heart. She's raped by Poseidon, and then she is the one who is punished by Athena, turned into a monster. And finally, she's killed by the horrible Perseus! So imagine my surprise that I actually loved, yes loved, this book!
Ms. Gruender gives a wonderful backstory to Medusa, and we get to see her growing up (a mortal) with her two Gorgon (non-mortal) sisters, pretty much ignored by their parents. Once she leaves her island home to become a priestess at the temple of Athens, I kept dreading what I knew was coming. And yes, she's raped by Poseidon. And yes, she's turned into a "monster," unwittingly killing some innocents until she learns what her power is all about.
Much of the story is Medusa traveling to find the place where she will eventually encounter Perseus. Along the way she meets up with Dionysus, some other mythological beings, and eventually her sisters.
I absolutely loved the ending Ms. Gruender fashioned for Medusa, and will be looking for some other books by the author.
Ms. Gruender gives a wonderful backstory to Medusa, and we get to see her growing up (a mortal) with her two Gorgon (non-mortal) sisters, pretty much ignored by their parents. Once she leaves her island home to become a priestess at the temple of Athens, I kept dreading what I knew was coming. And yes, she's raped by Poseidon. And yes, she's turned into a "monster," unwittingly killing some innocents until she learns what her power is all about.
Much of the story is Medusa traveling to find the place where she will eventually encounter Perseus. Along the way she meets up with Dionysus, some other mythological beings, and eventually her sisters.
I absolutely loved the ending Ms. Gruender fashioned for Medusa, and will be looking for some other books by the author.
September 8, 2025
Welcome to our August bookclub pick for the genre of a mythology retelling. It was a close vote between this and Percy Jackson (my pick), but I am happy Medusa won as I enjoyed this book.
Medusa’s story is sad, but ultimately one of growth and power. Knowing a bit about the legend, I spent the first 20% of the book in a constant state of fear. Once the assault and curse occurred, I was able to enjoy the story more instead of reading in dread. This is very much a tale of learning to love yourself and gaining power when life (and the Fates) deal you a crappy hand.
Greek mythology retellings have a way of making me love Dionysus and this was no different. I enjoyed how his power and how he is misunderstood by mortal men mirrored Medusa’s journey, and the chapters she spent with him were my favourite. I also loved Cerberus, but who doesn’t love a puppy?
This was one of my favourite Greek Mythology retellings that I have read in a while. It’s hard to make a well known story fresh and exciting to read, but for the most part this one did surprise me a few times. It’s an emotional journey but does end with a satisfying monologue and left me with a sense of pride and power in being a woman. I would recommend this book!
Medusa’s story is sad, but ultimately one of growth and power. Knowing a bit about the legend, I spent the first 20% of the book in a constant state of fear. Once the assault and curse occurred, I was able to enjoy the story more instead of reading in dread. This is very much a tale of learning to love yourself and gaining power when life (and the Fates) deal you a crappy hand.
Greek mythology retellings have a way of making me love Dionysus and this was no different. I enjoyed how his power and how he is misunderstood by mortal men mirrored Medusa’s journey, and the chapters she spent with him were my favourite. I also loved Cerberus, but who doesn’t love a puppy?
This was one of my favourite Greek Mythology retellings that I have read in a while. It’s hard to make a well known story fresh and exciting to read, but for the most part this one did surprise me a few times. It’s an emotional journey but does end with a satisfying monologue and left me with a sense of pride and power in being a woman. I would recommend this book!
August 29, 2024
Medusa
By Nataly Gruender
Thank you so much partner @booksparks @grandcentralpub for the gifted copy. #SRC2024 #GameSetRead
Blurb:
An intimate look into the life of a legendary mythical villain who has so often been stripped of her voice and humanity in this debut novel, perfect for fans of Madeline Miller’s Circe and the works of Jennifer Saint.
You know how Medusa’s story ends, but you’ve never heard her tell her own story… until now.
🐍 My thoughts:
Infinite stars! I have always been fascinated by Medusa and this book just made me even more so. I seriously loved this retelling so much, I simply can’t recommend it enough. This story gives us an intimate insight into Medusa’s thoughts and feelings during her most vulnerable moments. Heartbreaking and infuriating, it’s impossible not to feel hurt and rage on her behalf while reading her story. I enjoyed reading that her complicated relationships with her sisters did eventually heal over time, because that’s something we can all resonate with whether it be family or friends in our lifetime. Medusa was well written and a fantastically layered retelling that I’ll be recommending for years to come, and there’s no need to wait because it is out now!
Happy reading 📖 🐍✨
By Nataly Gruender
Thank you so much partner @booksparks @grandcentralpub for the gifted copy. #SRC2024 #GameSetRead
Blurb:
An intimate look into the life of a legendary mythical villain who has so often been stripped of her voice and humanity in this debut novel, perfect for fans of Madeline Miller’s Circe and the works of Jennifer Saint.
You know how Medusa’s story ends, but you’ve never heard her tell her own story… until now.
🐍 My thoughts:
Infinite stars! I have always been fascinated by Medusa and this book just made me even more so. I seriously loved this retelling so much, I simply can’t recommend it enough. This story gives us an intimate insight into Medusa’s thoughts and feelings during her most vulnerable moments. Heartbreaking and infuriating, it’s impossible not to feel hurt and rage on her behalf while reading her story. I enjoyed reading that her complicated relationships with her sisters did eventually heal over time, because that’s something we can all resonate with whether it be family or friends in our lifetime. Medusa was well written and a fantastically layered retelling that I’ll be recommending for years to come, and there’s no need to wait because it is out now!
Happy reading 📖 🐍✨
August 1, 2024
Always love to read retellings, especially those of mythology and Medusa is no stranger to having various versions of her story told.
This was a retelling with a more empathetic and modern tone to it. It was enjoyable to have the audiobook version of this tale as it gave emotion to the story and a nice flow.
The main ideas showcased seemed to be that of self-acceptance as well as having an open view to love and accept others as they are. There are so many relationships that people can take for granted that we should take time to appreciate more; from family to friends.
This was a lovely story and gave the trigger warnings and which chapter they pertained to before the start of the book (SA). So curious to see what Gruender comes out with next!
Thanks so much to the author, Nataly Gruender, Hachette Audio and NetGalley for the arc audiobook of Medusa!
This was a retelling with a more empathetic and modern tone to it. It was enjoyable to have the audiobook version of this tale as it gave emotion to the story and a nice flow.
The main ideas showcased seemed to be that of self-acceptance as well as having an open view to love and accept others as they are. There are so many relationships that people can take for granted that we should take time to appreciate more; from family to friends.
This was a lovely story and gave the trigger warnings and which chapter they pertained to before the start of the book (SA). So curious to see what Gruender comes out with next!
Thanks so much to the author, Nataly Gruender, Hachette Audio and NetGalley for the arc audiobook of Medusa!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 369 reviews