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Medea
Medea longs for a different life. Since childhood, she has been separated from her sister, shunned by her mother, and persecuted and tormented by her brother and father. All because of a unique and dangerous witchcraft.
But when a dashing young hero, Jason, arrives to claim the famed Golden Fleece that her father fiercely protects, Medea sees her opportunity for escape. Her offer to help Jason overcome the trials set by her father sets in motion a journey that will test every ounce of her strength, magic and loyalty; a journey that will see her battle monsters, dethrone kings and fall in love.
But when faced with the ultimate betrayal, Medea is driven to an act of desperation so brutal it rips apart the lives of everyone involved...
But when a dashing young hero, Jason, arrives to claim the famed Golden Fleece that her father fiercely protects, Medea sees her opportunity for escape. Her offer to help Jason overcome the trials set by her father sets in motion a journey that will test every ounce of her strength, magic and loyalty; a journey that will see her battle monsters, dethrone kings and fall in love.
But when faced with the ultimate betrayal, Medea is driven to an act of desperation so brutal it rips apart the lives of everyone involved...
432 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 2, 2024
713 people are currently reading
47451 people want to read
About the author
Rosie Hewlett
3 books548 followersRosie Hewlett is the Sunday Times Bestselling author of MEDEA and MEDUSA.
Having secured a First Class Honours degree in Classical Literature and Civilisation at the University of Birmingham, Rosie Hewlett has studied Greek mythology in depth and is passionate about unearthing strong female voices within the classical world. Rosie currently lives in Kent with her husband and is now a full-time author spending her days lost inside her favourite stories from mythology.
Rosie's first traditionally published novel, Medea, was an instant Sunday Times bestseller. Her self-published debut novel, Medusa, won the Rubery Book of the Year award in 2021 and is being re-released in hardback for the first time in autumn 2025.
Her brand new book Sweetbitter Song will be publishing in spring 2026.
Having secured a First Class Honours degree in Classical Literature and Civilisation at the University of Birmingham, Rosie Hewlett has studied Greek mythology in depth and is passionate about unearthing strong female voices within the classical world. Rosie currently lives in Kent with her husband and is now a full-time author spending her days lost inside her favourite stories from mythology.
Rosie's first traditionally published novel, Medea, was an instant Sunday Times bestseller. Her self-published debut novel, Medusa, won the Rubery Book of the Year award in 2021 and is being re-released in hardback for the first time in autumn 2025.
Her brand new book Sweetbitter Song will be publishing in spring 2026.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,597 reviews
December 21, 2024
In a Nutshell: A retelling of the story of Medea from Greek mythology. Excellent character development and plot structuring. You don’t need to know the original myth, though you will certainly appreciate the book better if you do. Much recommended to fans of the genre.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Plot Preview:
I had read this author’s self-published debut novel, ‘Medusa’, in 2021 and was blown away by her writing. It makes me glad to see that her second book has come through trad publishing, thereby potentially reaching a wider audience. She deserves every bit of success.
This book, published in the UK as ‘Medea’ and in the USA as ‘The Witch of Colchis’, contains all the positives from her first work, and pushes the bar even higher. At 464 pages, this book is more than double the length of Medusa (which was 204 pages long.) I was worried that this might indicate a dragged story, but the pacing of this narrative is perfect for the genre.
With enough background provided for every single character and situation, you don’t need to be familiar with Medea or Jason in order to enjoy this novel better. In fact, if you are unaware of these characters in the original Greek mythology, you will be more thrilled by the twists and turns coming your way. That said, if you do know her story, you will be able to appreciate the author’s angle much better. So there are pros and cons to each side.
The novel is divided in three parts, each coming from a distinct phase of Medea’s life. The first part lasts for about 70% of the book. This was easily my favourite in terms of plotline, as it offered everything that Greek mythology is known for: passion, foolishness, bravery, challenges, revenge, cheating, magic! The second part starts off somewhat boring, as there is a sudden shift in time and circumstances, leading to repetitive events and many inner monologues filled with uncertainty and self-pity. After the fast-paced first section, this sudden dip in pace made me wonder if my rating would plummet. But this situation soon resolves itself and the story takes a strong upwards turn that sustains till the end.
The first-person narrative is put to brilliant use in this book. I love how the author doesn’t dilute Medea’s negative tendencies. Rather, through every decision, we see the human underneath those cruel actions, making us wonder if Medea is a villain or a victim. Perhaps, both.
Though we get to hear only from Medea for most of the book, we still get enough of an insight into other characters such that we can gauge their personality traits as well. Many of the characters are annoying or self-obsessed or pompous or cruel… basically, unlikeable, but all these are trademarks of Greek myth characters and can’t be held against the book. Medea herself is not a picture-perfect angelic girl, and this complexity lends great depth to the plot, makes her a deserving eponymous lead.
The narration does get self-obsessed and rambling at times. Moreover, Medea tends to fixate on the superior anatomical attributes of men quite often, which can get irksome. But it helps to remember that Medea is just seventeen for a major part of the story. And just like most seventeen-year-olds, she is impulsive, allowing her passions rather than her brain to guide her. In fact, throughout the book, Medea ALWAYS acts her age; a brilliant indicator of how carefully the author has crafted her personality. You actually feel Medea's frustration as well as feel frustrated with her.
🎧 The Audiobook Experience:
The audiobook, clocking at 15 hours 24 minutes, is narrated by Kristin Atherton. She is BRILLIANT! She voices every single character and emotion to perfection. I simply loved her performance. The audiobook is definitely an excellent way of reading this long novel. The timeline is straightforward enough to keep track of, so it ought to work for audio newbies as well.
All in all, I mostly had a great time reading this novel. Medea’s obsession with her lover’s physical appeal did get on my nerves, but that issue is more due to personal reading preferences than a flaw of the book.
With two consecutive winners, Rosie Hewlett enters the list of authors whose books I will grab without bothering to read the synopsis.
Much recommended to all those who enjoy Greek mythology retellings. This is the dark story of a complex but flawed female character whose moral compass is skewed to listen to her heart than her head. As such, it also ought to work well with readers seeking a dramatic story of a woman who allows herself to be blinded by love.
4.25 stars.
My thanks to Recorded Books for providing the ALC of “The Witch of Colchis” via NetGalley. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the audiobook.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog || The StoryGraph || Instagram || X/Twitter || Facebook ||
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Plot Preview:
Seventeen-year-old Medea, the princess of the island of Colchis, has always been reviled by her family for her natural tendency towards witchery. Her only support is from her younger sister Chalciope and her aunt Circe, but both of these too soon wander away from Medea’s life. So when the dashing hero Jason arrives with his band of argonauts to claim the magical Golden Fleece that is protected on the island, Medea decides to help him in his challenge, in return for his aid in escaping. This decision becomes a life-changing one for our young lead, taking her on a path that she hadn’t foreseen, and one that isn’t easier than what she left behind.
The story comes to us in Medea’s first-person perspective.
I had read this author’s self-published debut novel, ‘Medusa’, in 2021 and was blown away by her writing. It makes me glad to see that her second book has come through trad publishing, thereby potentially reaching a wider audience. She deserves every bit of success.
This book, published in the UK as ‘Medea’ and in the USA as ‘The Witch of Colchis’, contains all the positives from her first work, and pushes the bar even higher. At 464 pages, this book is more than double the length of Medusa (which was 204 pages long.) I was worried that this might indicate a dragged story, but the pacing of this narrative is perfect for the genre.
With enough background provided for every single character and situation, you don’t need to be familiar with Medea or Jason in order to enjoy this novel better. In fact, if you are unaware of these characters in the original Greek mythology, you will be more thrilled by the twists and turns coming your way. That said, if you do know her story, you will be able to appreciate the author’s angle much better. So there are pros and cons to each side.
The novel is divided in three parts, each coming from a distinct phase of Medea’s life. The first part lasts for about 70% of the book. This was easily my favourite in terms of plotline, as it offered everything that Greek mythology is known for: passion, foolishness, bravery, challenges, revenge, cheating, magic! The second part starts off somewhat boring, as there is a sudden shift in time and circumstances, leading to repetitive events and many inner monologues filled with uncertainty and self-pity. After the fast-paced first section, this sudden dip in pace made me wonder if my rating would plummet. But this situation soon resolves itself and the story takes a strong upwards turn that sustains till the end.
The first-person narrative is put to brilliant use in this book. I love how the author doesn’t dilute Medea’s negative tendencies. Rather, through every decision, we see the human underneath those cruel actions, making us wonder if Medea is a villain or a victim. Perhaps, both.
Though we get to hear only from Medea for most of the book, we still get enough of an insight into other characters such that we can gauge their personality traits as well. Many of the characters are annoying or self-obsessed or pompous or cruel… basically, unlikeable, but all these are trademarks of Greek myth characters and can’t be held against the book. Medea herself is not a picture-perfect angelic girl, and this complexity lends great depth to the plot, makes her a deserving eponymous lead.
The narration does get self-obsessed and rambling at times. Moreover, Medea tends to fixate on the superior anatomical attributes of men quite often, which can get irksome. But it helps to remember that Medea is just seventeen for a major part of the story. And just like most seventeen-year-olds, she is impulsive, allowing her passions rather than her brain to guide her. In fact, throughout the book, Medea ALWAYS acts her age; a brilliant indicator of how carefully the author has crafted her personality. You actually feel Medea's frustration as well as feel frustrated with her.
🎧 The Audiobook Experience:
The audiobook, clocking at 15 hours 24 minutes, is narrated by Kristin Atherton. She is BRILLIANT! She voices every single character and emotion to perfection. I simply loved her performance. The audiobook is definitely an excellent way of reading this long novel. The timeline is straightforward enough to keep track of, so it ought to work for audio newbies as well.
All in all, I mostly had a great time reading this novel. Medea’s obsession with her lover’s physical appeal did get on my nerves, but that issue is more due to personal reading preferences than a flaw of the book.
With two consecutive winners, Rosie Hewlett enters the list of authors whose books I will grab without bothering to read the synopsis.
Much recommended to all those who enjoy Greek mythology retellings. This is the dark story of a complex but flawed female character whose moral compass is skewed to listen to her heart than her head. As such, it also ought to work well with readers seeking a dramatic story of a woman who allows herself to be blinded by love.
4.25 stars.
My thanks to Recorded Books for providing the ALC of “The Witch of Colchis” via NetGalley. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the audiobook.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog || The StoryGraph || Instagram || X/Twitter || Facebook ||
May 17, 2024
For fans of Circe, feminist rage, and witchy power!
An author who manages to make you love, sympathise, and root for a character only to do a whole 360 and make you hate their actions and who they have become, yet still feel compassion for them is talented.
Medea: best known for her marriage to legendary hero Jason and then killing her own children.
Here, Hewlett develops Medea, delving into her childhood and history to show how her dark side, her lust for power, and her eventual unfathomable betrayal was nurtured by trauma and the mistreatment and abuse by her father and brother.
Medea is powerful, taught by Circe (name drop!) to wield her magic given by the goddess Hecate. However, Medea is forbidden from using it unless her father wills it. She is his weapon, just like Jason uses her as his own hidden weapon later on.
Love or leverage?
”And I also know how they will tell his story. It is the same for any woman who defies their place in this world. Jason will be the hero, and you? They’ll either make you his adoring, lovesick damsel or they’ll make you the villain. Those are the only roles they feel comfortable with us occupying.”
I also have to shout out Atalanta and the budding friendship there. Atalanta just really wanted the best for Medea but Jason’s involvement just makes Medea push her away. Just like Circe.
Not to mention, the interactions between the Argonauts was just so fun!! I would love to read an Atalanta retelling by Hewitt, especially as it is my favourite Jennifer Saint book!
Bookstagram
An author who manages to make you love, sympathise, and root for a character only to do a whole 360 and make you hate their actions and who they have become, yet still feel compassion for them is talented.
Medea: best known for her marriage to legendary hero Jason and then killing her own children.
Here, Hewlett develops Medea, delving into her childhood and history to show how her dark side, her lust for power, and her eventual unfathomable betrayal was nurtured by trauma and the mistreatment and abuse by her father and brother.
Medea is powerful, taught by Circe (name drop!) to wield her magic given by the goddess Hecate. However, Medea is forbidden from using it unless her father wills it. She is his weapon, just like Jason uses her as his own hidden weapon later on.
Love or leverage?
”And I also know how they will tell his story. It is the same for any woman who defies their place in this world. Jason will be the hero, and you? They’ll either make you his adoring, lovesick damsel or they’ll make you the villain. Those are the only roles they feel comfortable with us occupying.”
I also have to shout out Atalanta and the budding friendship there. Atalanta just really wanted the best for Medea but Jason’s involvement just makes Medea push her away. Just like Circe.
Not to mention, the interactions between the Argonauts was just so fun!! I would love to read an Atalanta retelling by Hewitt, especially as it is my favourite Jennifer Saint book!
Bookstagram
July 31, 2023
'Though, if I have learnt one thing in my life, it is that nobody will hand you your happiness. For happiness is not a gift to be given freely but a prize to be claimed.' Rosie Hewlett - Medea
I read Rosie Hewlett's stunning book Medusa a couple of years ago and knew instantly that she would be an auto-buy author. When she announced she was working on a novel about Medea, who arguably has one of the most disturbing stories of all the Ancients, I eagerly awaited more news.
I was very lucky to be sent a proof of this book months early. As soon as I finished unwrapping and admiring its gorgeous design, I tore open the pages and was engrossed in the story. It was so hard every time I had to put it down to get on with life over the next couple of days and I couldn't stop thinking about it.
Although I was familiar with parts of Medea's story, I didn't know about her traumatic upbringing in Colchis. My heart broke for her over and over as she was used, rejected, and humiliated by those who were meant to love her. Rosie gradually reveals more of Medea's layers as the story progresses, and I found myself empathising with a lot more of her shadow sides than I thought I would.
The love story, which is a focus for most of the book, could have been a modern-day relationship. Most women have experienced some form of gaslighting or emotional manipulation, and you can't help but relate to Medea at times, as well as wanting to scream at her.
The foreboding and nervous anticipation building throughout the story made for one of the heaviest and emotionally draining climaxes I've ever read. I had to take a few deep breaths through those last chapters, and I won't ever forget some of the scenes.
As a big mythology fan, I've read a lot of retellings. The issue with many of them is that they tell the story without any soul. In contrast, every word of this story has such feeling and rhythm, and Medea is truly fully formed in all her power, trauma and terror. What sets Rosie apart from the rest is her prose, which was so pretty it often hurt. There were so many beautifully crafted sentences I had to read over and over.
I must give a special mention to Rosie's portrayal of Orpheus, my forever favorite of all Myth. Although he doesn't feature too much, I had happy tears whenever he appeared because the way he was written was just so utterly perfect and poetic.
This book is up there with The Song of Achilles as one of my all-time favorite retellings. It is absolutely one of the best books I've read this year. I imagine I'll read it a couple more times during the agonizing wait for Rosie's next book.
I read Rosie Hewlett's stunning book Medusa a couple of years ago and knew instantly that she would be an auto-buy author. When she announced she was working on a novel about Medea, who arguably has one of the most disturbing stories of all the Ancients, I eagerly awaited more news.
I was very lucky to be sent a proof of this book months early. As soon as I finished unwrapping and admiring its gorgeous design, I tore open the pages and was engrossed in the story. It was so hard every time I had to put it down to get on with life over the next couple of days and I couldn't stop thinking about it.
Although I was familiar with parts of Medea's story, I didn't know about her traumatic upbringing in Colchis. My heart broke for her over and over as she was used, rejected, and humiliated by those who were meant to love her. Rosie gradually reveals more of Medea's layers as the story progresses, and I found myself empathising with a lot more of her shadow sides than I thought I would.
The love story, which is a focus for most of the book, could have been a modern-day relationship. Most women have experienced some form of gaslighting or emotional manipulation, and you can't help but relate to Medea at times, as well as wanting to scream at her.
The foreboding and nervous anticipation building throughout the story made for one of the heaviest and emotionally draining climaxes I've ever read. I had to take a few deep breaths through those last chapters, and I won't ever forget some of the scenes.
As a big mythology fan, I've read a lot of retellings. The issue with many of them is that they tell the story without any soul. In contrast, every word of this story has such feeling and rhythm, and Medea is truly fully formed in all her power, trauma and terror. What sets Rosie apart from the rest is her prose, which was so pretty it often hurt. There were so many beautifully crafted sentences I had to read over and over.
I must give a special mention to Rosie's portrayal of Orpheus, my forever favorite of all Myth. Although he doesn't feature too much, I had happy tears whenever he appeared because the way he was written was just so utterly perfect and poetic.
This book is up there with The Song of Achilles as one of my all-time favorite retellings. It is absolutely one of the best books I've read this year. I imagine I'll read it a couple more times during the agonizing wait for Rosie's next book.
August 14, 2024
I tried so hard to like this one,I tried again and again until I realized that it's a waste of time.
This one started strong but immediately it goes downhill.
Medea in this one is an infatuated idiot damsel in distress who doesn't really know who to use her powers all that well.
She is nothing like any versions of the myth Medea.
Once she meets Jason she become so idiotic and the whole book had so many cringe moments.
It's only near the end where Medea stops begin a victim and stars to be powerful and smart but it come too late,sadly(I only give it 2 stars for the ending).
The author decided to make some new changes to the myth and while I like when that happens,it did not work in this one cause they made no sense.
I'm still waiting to read about Medea who is smart and powerful and not one who again is only a victim even in her version of the story.
Medea is so much more than that.
I want a story where is her just wanting power(why are we so afraid to write women who want to be powerful and that's it?) and where she can still be in love with Jason but not robed of her brain while at it.
This one started strong but immediately it goes downhill.
Medea in this one is an infatuated idiot damsel in distress who doesn't really know who to use her powers all that well.
She is nothing like any versions of the myth Medea.
Once she meets Jason she become so idiotic and the whole book had so many cringe moments.
It's only near the end where Medea stops begin a victim and stars to be powerful and smart but it come too late,sadly(I only give it 2 stars for the ending).
The author decided to make some new changes to the myth and while I like when that happens,it did not work in this one cause they made no sense.
I'm still waiting to read about Medea who is smart and powerful and not one who again is only a victim even in her version of the story.
Medea is so much more than that.
I want a story where is her just wanting power(why are we so afraid to write women who want to be powerful and that's it?) and where she can still be in love with Jason but not robed of her brain while at it.
April 2, 2024
LET WOMEN BE EVIL. Medea does not need to be good to justify taking up space in the narrative.
The central crux of my problem with this book is that it completely robs Medea of her agency. Everything she did, she did because she was manipulated by Jason into doing it. A) Jason was not that smart B) Let women have ambitions outside of falling in love.
Medea is a political ace who is punished for knowing what she wants and taking it. If you want a lonely, pretty heroine who puts it all on the line for love, go read about Ariadne.
The central crux of my problem with this book is that it completely robs Medea of her agency. Everything she did, she did because she was manipulated by Jason into doing it. A) Jason was not that smart B) Let women have ambitions outside of falling in love.
Medea is a political ace who is punished for knowing what she wants and taking it. If you want a lonely, pretty heroine who puts it all on the line for love, go read about Ariadne.
January 10, 2025
If History of Man by Maisie Peters was a book, it'd be The Witch of Colchis. The writing in this was absolutely beautiful and was surprisingly digestible. I completely flew through this book...the pacing, the plot, the fresh perspective on an infamous woman from classic mythology, loved it all.
This book did a great job commentating on women's roles in ancient society, as well as how women who don't follow expectations are shunned, with Medea ultimately opting to lean into the vilification. I liked how the author created a harsh backstory and upbringing for Medea that made her susceptible to anyone (Jason) who offered her an out. And the last chapter? SO well-written...chills lol. This book is so Would've Could've Should've and I Did Something Bad by Taylor Swift coded, and such a good first five star read of 2025!
This book did a great job commentating on women's roles in ancient society, as well as how women who don't follow expectations are shunned, with Medea ultimately opting to lean into the vilification. I liked how the author created a harsh backstory and upbringing for Medea that made her susceptible to anyone (Jason) who offered her an out. And the last chapter? SO well-written...chills lol. This book is so Would've Could've Should've and I Did Something Bad by Taylor Swift coded, and such a good first five star read of 2025!
March 30, 2024
It's worth the read just because Medea is iconic and Rosie Hewlett a great author.
June 14, 2025
Me ha gustado bastante toda la historia de Medea, la verdad es que es algo triste como es manipulada y usada por todos, incluso por los que ama, y como todo ese rechazo la convierte en quien es y en quien temen.
Valoración: 8/10
Sinopsis: Rechazada por su madre. Golpeada por su padre. Separada de su hermana. Medea nunca ha encajado porque posee un poder único y la brujería.
Medea anhela una existencia diferente. Desde pequeña fue atormentada por su familia porque nació con un poder único y, en apariencia, la hechicería. Cuando el apuesto Jasón llega al reino del padre de Medea para reclamar el Vellocino de Oro, ella vislumbra una oportunidad única para a cambio de que Jasón la ayude a huir, ella lo protegerá con su magia para que supere las pruebas que lo separan del famoso vellocino. Esta aventura la pondrá a prueba en todos los sentidos, luchará contra monstruos, destronará reyes y se enamorará de un hombre que nunca podría esperar merecerla… y cuando al final se enfrente a la traición, se verá impulsada a cometer un acto de desesperación tan brutal que destrozará la vida de todos a su alrededor.
Valoración: 8/10
Sinopsis: Rechazada por su madre. Golpeada por su padre. Separada de su hermana. Medea nunca ha encajado porque posee un poder único y la brujería.
Medea anhela una existencia diferente. Desde pequeña fue atormentada por su familia porque nació con un poder único y, en apariencia, la hechicería. Cuando el apuesto Jasón llega al reino del padre de Medea para reclamar el Vellocino de Oro, ella vislumbra una oportunidad única para a cambio de que Jasón la ayude a huir, ella lo protegerá con su magia para que supere las pruebas que lo separan del famoso vellocino. Esta aventura la pondrá a prueba en todos los sentidos, luchará contra monstruos, destronará reyes y se enamorará de un hombre que nunca podría esperar merecerla… y cuando al final se enfrente a la traición, se verá impulsada a cometer un acto de desesperación tan brutal que destrozará la vida de todos a su alrededor.
June 20, 2025
Maybe we should gatekeep mythological heroines of the authors who just want an ounce of Madeline Miller's fame. At this point the mediocre to downright bad retellings far outnumber the decent ones, and Rosie Hewlett's Medea unfortunately falls into the former group.
Medea was effectively puppeteered by Jason throughout the story, only to miraculously grow a spine in the last 30 pages, with the change mostly happening off page, mind you. It gets tiring, following a character with no agency whatsoever, and the prose didn't help much. Worse yet, I felt the author wasn't too familiar with the source material either, with the way the dragon was described (markedly contemporary - with wings and claws to boot, whereas dragons in Greek myths are more serpent-like), and with the final chapters where Medea is told that she has incurred the wrath of the gods - the very same Medea, who in the myth is sent a golden chariot her grandfather, Helios, god of the sun? That has killed without consequence, and as a result of this is often interpreted as a divine force? That did not sit right with me.
Here is how I lost my mind reading this book in real time (with spoilers):
Medea was effectively puppeteered by Jason throughout the story, only to miraculously grow a spine in the last 30 pages, with the change mostly happening off page, mind you. It gets tiring, following a character with no agency whatsoever, and the prose didn't help much. Worse yet, I felt the author wasn't too familiar with the source material either, with the way the dragon was described (markedly contemporary - with wings and claws to boot, whereas dragons in Greek myths are more serpent-like), and with the final chapters where Medea is told that she has incurred the wrath of the gods - the very same Medea, who in the myth is sent a golden chariot her grandfather, Helios, god of the sun? That has killed without consequence, and as a result of this is often interpreted as a divine force? That did not sit right with me.
Here is how I lost my mind reading this book in real time (with spoilers):
June 12, 2025
No conocía mucho la historia de Medea, se que esto hasta cierto punto ha sido una probadita y miren que me ha gustado. Me ha encantado la evolución del personaje de Medea a lo largo de la trama, no tuvo una infancia fácil con los padres que le tocaron, tampoco con el hermano que le hacía la vida imposible... No estuve de acuerdo con la forma en que le dio su merecido pero era muy joven y se dejo influenciar por Jason (que tipo tan más egocéntrico y abusón). Asi que tanto Jasón como Asprito y el padre los odie, que se le va a hacer
Otro de los personajes que me encantó fue Atalanta, que bárbara mis respetos para ella, en su momento debió jalarle más las orejas a Medea para que entrara en razón sobre su amado, pero estaba ciega, ni modo. Meleagro y Orfeo (ambos argonautas junto con Atalanta), el papel de Circe también me ha gustado aunque su participación haya sido poquita.
La narración fue bastante buena para mi gusto, y si bien los capítulos eran un poquitín largos no se me hizo demasiado pesado.
Pues nada como he dicho, me ha gustado, gracias Sergi por proponerlo en la Cafe
Otro de los personajes que me encantó fue Atalanta, que bárbara mis respetos para ella, en su momento debió jalarle más las orejas a Medea para que entrara en razón sobre su amado, pero estaba ciega, ni modo. Meleagro y Orfeo (ambos argonautas junto con Atalanta), el papel de Circe también me ha gustado aunque su participación haya sido poquita.
La narración fue bastante buena para mi gusto, y si bien los capítulos eran un poquitín largos no se me hizo demasiado pesado.
Pues nada como he dicho, me ha gustado, gracias Sergi por proponerlo en la Cafe
September 10, 2024
3.5/4
This book is also marketed under Medea. I'm not sure why there are two titles but I've checked and it's the same book.
I listened to the audio version which was narrated well except for the parts where Kristin Atherton got a little bit melodramatic for my taste. However she had a good clear voice and enunciated well.
I know the tale of Medea well enough to be aware of the salient facts but in this novel they are fleshed out - sometimes a little too fleshed out. I suppose this is also personal taste but there was a bit too much lingering on Jason's physical attributes along with the frequent seduction scenes. I could have lived without all but the first.
However the story stuck to the myth - Medea is a sorceress, taught by Aunty Circe. Her dad is a nasty piece of work and her brother is no better. Medea is aware of her power from an early age, having turned her brother into a pig before she is even trained. To get away from the horrible dad she throws her lot in with handsome (but deeply narcissistic) Jason, who'd sell his own grandma to be crowned king of anywhere.
As the story continues Medea uses her power to help her husband but, of course, he's a thankless swine and doesn't appreciate her.
I'll warn you now there are several scenes describing Medea's handiwork that aren't for the fainthearted and the book obviously includes fratricide, infanticide, regicide plus physical and mental abuse to name a few. Let's face it though, the Greeks (and especially their gods) weren't known for their cuddliness.
On the whole it is well told but, as I said, very dramatic in parts and there quite a lot of repetition and procrastination which lengthens the story unnecessarily. Otherwise it's good.
I did want Medea to be a little more vindictive than she is ever portrayed and I'm permanently mystified why such a powerful sorceress didn't take more revenge than she did but if you're sticking to the original myth this is what you get.
Thankyou to Netgalley and RB Media for the audio advance review copy.
This book is also marketed under Medea. I'm not sure why there are two titles but I've checked and it's the same book.
I listened to the audio version which was narrated well except for the parts where Kristin Atherton got a little bit melodramatic for my taste. However she had a good clear voice and enunciated well.
I know the tale of Medea well enough to be aware of the salient facts but in this novel they are fleshed out - sometimes a little too fleshed out. I suppose this is also personal taste but there was a bit too much lingering on Jason's physical attributes along with the frequent seduction scenes. I could have lived without all but the first.
However the story stuck to the myth - Medea is a sorceress, taught by Aunty Circe. Her dad is a nasty piece of work and her brother is no better. Medea is aware of her power from an early age, having turned her brother into a pig before she is even trained. To get away from the horrible dad she throws her lot in with handsome (but deeply narcissistic) Jason, who'd sell his own grandma to be crowned king of anywhere.
As the story continues Medea uses her power to help her husband but, of course, he's a thankless swine and doesn't appreciate her.
I'll warn you now there are several scenes describing Medea's handiwork that aren't for the fainthearted and the book obviously includes fratricide, infanticide, regicide plus physical and mental abuse to name a few. Let's face it though, the Greeks (and especially their gods) weren't known for their cuddliness.
On the whole it is well told but, as I said, very dramatic in parts and there quite a lot of repetition and procrastination which lengthens the story unnecessarily. Otherwise it's good.
I did want Medea to be a little more vindictive than she is ever portrayed and I'm permanently mystified why such a powerful sorceress didn't take more revenge than she did but if you're sticking to the original myth this is what you get.
Thankyou to Netgalley and RB Media for the audio advance review copy.
August 14, 2023
If you've been following me on IG for a while you will fondly remember (lol) how much I told you all to read Medusa by Rosie Hewlett, and by “told” I mean “shoved it in your face and beat you over the head with it”. So imagine my utter excitement when Rosie announced her next book, Medea. The sheer joy and excitement I felt at knowing Rosie was going to be lending her wonderful storytelling to Medea sent me into a frenzy you’d expect from an overexcited fangirl.
So did Medea live up to the hype I had created for it in my head? No. IT EXCEEDED IT. It saw the bar and just smashed right on through it. I’m keenly aware of Medea’s story, and yet somehow Rosie has written this in such an enchanting way that it seemed like a brand new character to me. I just NEEDED to know more about her. I had to keep reading. I wanted Medea’s story, and here it was in front of me captivating me like a moth to a flame for the first time all over again.
Thank you Rosie for giving Medea a voice that not only does her proud, but will make her all the more captivating for readers that aren’t familiar with Mythology’s favourite witch (sorry Circe..).
If you want to read an incredibly empowering story about one of the best witches in history, then please pick up this book. If you don’t pick it up, I might (will) slightly smack you upside the head with it.
Im going to be insufferable about this one and it’s not even being released until next March. So please go and pre-order it.
Also, special shout-out to my girl Atalanta, my heart is always happy when she’s the subject of the media I’m consuming and Rosie nailed her character for me.
There’s not enough “thank you’s” in the world I could express to Melissa at Bantam and Rosie for sending me a proof box of this one but THANK YOU.
So did Medea live up to the hype I had created for it in my head? No. IT EXCEEDED IT. It saw the bar and just smashed right on through it. I’m keenly aware of Medea’s story, and yet somehow Rosie has written this in such an enchanting way that it seemed like a brand new character to me. I just NEEDED to know more about her. I had to keep reading. I wanted Medea’s story, and here it was in front of me captivating me like a moth to a flame for the first time all over again.
Thank you Rosie for giving Medea a voice that not only does her proud, but will make her all the more captivating for readers that aren’t familiar with Mythology’s favourite witch (sorry Circe..).
If you want to read an incredibly empowering story about one of the best witches in history, then please pick up this book. If you don’t pick it up, I might (will) slightly smack you upside the head with it.
Im going to be insufferable about this one and it’s not even being released until next March. So please go and pre-order it.
Also, special shout-out to my girl Atalanta, my heart is always happy when she’s the subject of the media I’m consuming and Rosie nailed her character for me.
There’s not enough “thank you’s” in the world I could express to Melissa at Bantam and Rosie for sending me a proof box of this one but THANK YOU.
September 5, 2025
Medea longs for a different life, since her childhood she has been separated from her sister, ignored by her mother and tormented by her brother and father. All because she has the power of witchcraft. When the dashing young hero Jason arrives to claim the famed Golden Fleece that her father fiercely protects, Medea sees a way out and uses this to her advantage to plot her escape. Medea uses her powers to help Jason succeed in exchange for him taking her with him when he leaves, she finds herself on a journey that tests her strength, her powers and loyalty. A journey that has the power to dethrone kings.
As a fan of mythology I really wanted to like to this book, I really enjoyed the first part of it but sadly halfway through I had to skim read and skip to the end as I wasn’t enjoying it. I felt for Medea as she had a hard life, I didn’t like most of the other characters as they seemed rather self centred and self serving. It’s a shame as I was looking forward to reading this book, I personally wouldn’t recommend it but we all have our own individual tastes.
As a fan of mythology I really wanted to like to this book, I really enjoyed the first part of it but sadly halfway through I had to skim read and skip to the end as I wasn’t enjoying it. I felt for Medea as she had a hard life, I didn’t like most of the other characters as they seemed rather self centred and self serving. It’s a shame as I was looking forward to reading this book, I personally wouldn’t recommend it but we all have our own individual tastes.
May 12, 2024
4/5 stars
This was just a villain origin story, and I ate it up.
I know men in mythology are like the absolute worst, but Jason …. it’s on sight.
No excuses were made for Medea’s actions, just explanation, which I appreciated. Women are complex, especially unhinged women. I only wish side characters were a bit more fleshed out, and some scenes contained a bit more commentary on what actually conspired.
This was just a villain origin story, and I ate it up.
I know men in mythology are like the absolute worst, but Jason …. it’s on sight.
No excuses were made for Medea’s actions, just explanation, which I appreciated. Women are complex, especially unhinged women. I only wish side characters were a bit more fleshed out, and some scenes contained a bit more commentary on what actually conspired.
May 10, 2024
The Witch Of Colchis is a gripping, harrowing-and at times frustrating-portrayal of Medea, one of the most controversial figures in mythology. Those who are familiar with the stories surrounding her will certainly understand why.
The Witch Of Colchis delves into the people, ideologies and events that help to shape Medea into woman she inevitably becomes. She is a complex character: surrounded by abuse and neglect, naive, yearning for affection and freedom and yet still bound by the the narrow constraints of womanhood despite the remarkable powers she possesses as a sorceress.
Medea’s relationship with Jason, the leader of the Argonauts, is a tragic one tinged with codependency, betrayal and unfulfilled expectations. The moments of gaslighting used against her were not only infuriating to read, but also a symptom of Jason’s own self-deception: as though an insinuation rather than a direct request could remove personal responsibility.
Although the continued besmirchment of Medea’s reputation throughout the novel helps to assure him otherwise.
Nevertheless, Medea’s darker actions are not excused, though her inner motivations help to illuminate the reasoning behind her decisions. Medea’s initial relationships with her sister Chalciope, her aunt Circe and Atalanta, the only female Argonaut, briefly provide some of the rare uplifting moments within the novel.
These moments feel necessary as the near-conclusion of The Witch Of Colchis is quite bleak. Neither gratuitous nor wholly unexpected, but seemingly the culmination of the continued mistreatment and trauma that Medea experienced.
But it is also not the end of her story.
Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for providing access to this ebook. All opinions expressed are solely my own.
The Witch Of Colchis delves into the people, ideologies and events that help to shape Medea into woman she inevitably becomes. She is a complex character: surrounded by abuse and neglect, naive, yearning for affection and freedom and yet still bound by the the narrow constraints of womanhood despite the remarkable powers she possesses as a sorceress.
Medea’s relationship with Jason, the leader of the Argonauts, is a tragic one tinged with codependency, betrayal and unfulfilled expectations. The moments of gaslighting used against her were not only infuriating to read, but also a symptom of Jason’s own self-deception: as though an insinuation rather than a direct request could remove personal responsibility.
Although the continued besmirchment of Medea’s reputation throughout the novel helps to assure him otherwise.
Nevertheless, Medea’s darker actions are not excused, though her inner motivations help to illuminate the reasoning behind her decisions. Medea’s initial relationships with her sister Chalciope, her aunt Circe and Atalanta, the only female Argonaut, briefly provide some of the rare uplifting moments within the novel.
These moments feel necessary as the near-conclusion of The Witch Of Colchis is quite bleak. Neither gratuitous nor wholly unexpected, but seemingly the culmination of the continued mistreatment and trauma that Medea experienced.
But it is also not the end of her story.
Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for providing access to this ebook. All opinions expressed are solely my own.
April 2, 2025
OMG! I want to reach out into the book, thousands of years from now and strangle Jason😡😡😡😡
well, Medea is no better! she is such an idiot
⚜ rating: 5/5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
⚜Genre: Greek Retelling
⚜Theme: Revenge
⚜Targeted audience: NA
⚜Characters: Medea, Jason
⚜Representation: non
⚜ driven: Character-driven definitely. Yes there is the plot of Medea embracing her ruthlessness, but this is all about the characters.
⚜Pace: medium
⚜TW: a lot! A whole fucking lot! violence- child violence- sibling murder- beheading - skinning - infertility- grooming
⚜ tropes: I don't know if this is trope-driven but let's say "revenge"
⚜ POV: one-sided third person
⚜ spice 🌶🌶
⚜standalone: yes
⚜Ending: Satisfying
⚜Book read: tandem audio and physical
If you are familiar with the story of Medea then you know how the story ends. If you are not, I advise you not to read this review
.
.
the story in short, Medea the witch of Calchios helps Jason with his three trials to get the golden fleece. Jason takes her back to her kingdom and marries her as a reward. However, he takes all the glory for himself. After 10 years of marriage and two sons, Jason decides to annul his marriage to Medea to marry another princess. Medea, in rage, takes her revenge on him by murdering the princess and their 2 sons. The gods forgive her because she later helps Hercules.
In this book, Hewlett depicts in depth the manipulative process by which Jason has used to groom Medea and get her to do his bedding.
Jason’s Grooming and Exploitation of Medea
Grooming often involves a process where the perpetrator builds a connection with a victim to abuse them. The abuse could be physical or emotional. Medea has suffered both. Physical by the hand of her father ever since she was a child. He portrayed her as a monster for her magic yet still used said magic for his gain.
When Jason arrives, Medea is 17. Jason is portrayed as a calculated manipulator who grooms Medea, leveraging her foreignness and magical prowess for his gain. He builds trust and love, positioning himself as her savior promising her freedom and an accepting kingdom.
He manipulates her, just like her father, to do unspeakable murders then throws that at her.
ason’s charm and strategic affection manipulate Medea into sacrificing her family, homeland, and moral boundaries. His betrayal is framed not just as abandonment but as the culmination of a predatory relationship where Medea’s agency is eroded.
He expected her to give and give and give while he returned nothing, not even affection.
This is clearly shown with their first "lovemaking" if you want to call it that. Jason never took his time with her or eased her into the sex. he pushed through her barrier ignoring her pain because he wanted to take her for himself.
Medea's Reclamation of Power
Even though Medea is the victim, I hold her responsible for her fate as well. You may think that she was young when Jason pushed himself into her life, but a person who was living with a manipulative father should have seen the signs.
She was so desperate for freedom that she thought others should free her and not she freeing herself though she had all the power.
And although every male in her life betrayed her and every female warned her, she did not listen and arrogantly thought that Jason would be her freedom.
10 years she gave Jason from her life, never standing up to him. She is not 17 anymore. So I blame her for reaching the breaking point
However, at the same time, I applaud her for what she did. Better late than never I suppose.
Medea’s infamous acts of vengeance (e.g., killing her children) are recontextualized as desperate responses to systemic oppression. Her manipulation of others—such as deceiving Creon and Glauce with poisoned gifts—becomes a survival tactic, highlighting her entrapment in a patriarchal world.
The epilogue
Oh how I hated her sister Chalciope. She reminded me of Elain from acotar. The innocent looking beauty who everyone defends and daunts on. Who gets a man to love her and a happy life, but let's other take the suffering away from her.
Chalcipe hautingly marches to Madea after 15 years wanting Medea to ease her mind because - get this - Chalciope cannot tolerate the thought that a mother killed her child!!! you piece of shit!! you left your sister to suffer and after all these years YOU WANT HER TO EASE YOUR PAIN!!!!!!!!! FUCK YOU
She reminds me of white people who when they say the oppression happening to others because of their own governments cry and say sorry wanting others to comfort them for their empathy!
anyway, I loved everything about the book
tbh, I wanted to read more about Medea after Jason.
well, Medea is no better! she is such an idiot
⚜ rating: 5/5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
⚜Genre: Greek Retelling
⚜Theme: Revenge
⚜Targeted audience: NA
⚜Characters: Medea, Jason
⚜Representation: non
⚜ driven: Character-driven definitely. Yes there is the plot of Medea embracing her ruthlessness, but this is all about the characters.
⚜Pace: medium
⚜TW: a lot! A whole fucking lot! violence- child violence- sibling murder- beheading - skinning - infertility- grooming
⚜ tropes: I don't know if this is trope-driven but let's say "revenge"
⚜ POV: one-sided third person
⚜ spice 🌶🌶
⚜standalone: yes
⚜Ending: Satisfying
⚜Book read: tandem audio and physical
If you are familiar with the story of Medea then you know how the story ends. If you are not, I advise you not to read this review
.
.
the story in short, Medea the witch of Calchios helps Jason with his three trials to get the golden fleece. Jason takes her back to her kingdom and marries her as a reward. However, he takes all the glory for himself. After 10 years of marriage and two sons, Jason decides to annul his marriage to Medea to marry another princess. Medea, in rage, takes her revenge on him by murdering the princess and their 2 sons. The gods forgive her because she later helps Hercules.
In this book, Hewlett depicts in depth the manipulative process by which Jason has used to groom Medea and get her to do his bedding.
Jason’s Grooming and Exploitation of Medea
Grooming often involves a process where the perpetrator builds a connection with a victim to abuse them. The abuse could be physical or emotional. Medea has suffered both. Physical by the hand of her father ever since she was a child. He portrayed her as a monster for her magic yet still used said magic for his gain.
When Jason arrives, Medea is 17. Jason is portrayed as a calculated manipulator who grooms Medea, leveraging her foreignness and magical prowess for his gain. He builds trust and love, positioning himself as her savior promising her freedom and an accepting kingdom.
He manipulates her, just like her father, to do unspeakable murders then throws that at her.
ason’s charm and strategic affection manipulate Medea into sacrificing her family, homeland, and moral boundaries. His betrayal is framed not just as abandonment but as the culmination of a predatory relationship where Medea’s agency is eroded.
He expected her to give and give and give while he returned nothing, not even affection.
This is clearly shown with their first "lovemaking" if you want to call it that. Jason never took his time with her or eased her into the sex. he pushed through her barrier ignoring her pain because he wanted to take her for himself.
Medea's Reclamation of Power
Even though Medea is the victim, I hold her responsible for her fate as well. You may think that she was young when Jason pushed himself into her life, but a person who was living with a manipulative father should have seen the signs.
She was so desperate for freedom that she thought others should free her and not she freeing herself though she had all the power.
And although every male in her life betrayed her and every female warned her, she did not listen and arrogantly thought that Jason would be her freedom.
10 years she gave Jason from her life, never standing up to him. She is not 17 anymore. So I blame her for reaching the breaking point
However, at the same time, I applaud her for what she did. Better late than never I suppose.
Medea’s infamous acts of vengeance (e.g., killing her children) are recontextualized as desperate responses to systemic oppression. Her manipulation of others—such as deceiving Creon and Glauce with poisoned gifts—becomes a survival tactic, highlighting her entrapment in a patriarchal world.
The epilogue
Oh how I hated her sister Chalciope. She reminded me of Elain from acotar. The innocent looking beauty who everyone defends and daunts on. Who gets a man to love her and a happy life, but let's other take the suffering away from her.
Chalcipe hautingly marches to Madea after 15 years wanting Medea to ease her mind because - get this - Chalciope cannot tolerate the thought that a mother killed her child!!! you piece of shit!! you left your sister to suffer and after all these years YOU WANT HER TO EASE YOUR PAIN!!!!!!!!! FUCK YOU
She reminds me of white people who when they say the oppression happening to others because of their own governments cry and say sorry wanting others to comfort them for their empathy!
anyway, I loved everything about the book
tbh, I wanted to read more about Medea after Jason.
December 12, 2024
I’ve always enjoyed reading all sorts of myths, but I think the Greek mythology was my favorite growing up. I was constantly fascinated by the legends about the world creation, the heroes and the gods, the places and the adventures they all lived. It is, thus, no surprise I ended up looking for a new retelling to explore recently and, having read a comic book whose main character is named after the Greek sorceress, Medea, I figured I would give Rosie Hewlett’s Medea a try, too.
This is why, before jumping into the review, I would like to start with a thank you to Netgalley and Random House UK, Transworld Publishers, for granting me permission to read the book ahead of its publication, in exchange for an honest opinion. By the way, the book has just published on March 21, so I believe a happy publication week should be in order.
Book Title and Cover
By this time, I am sure everyone knows I judge books by their covers and this is once again applied for this particular book. I was drawn in not only by the title, which describes the main character, the fabled daughter who kills her family members and triggers the wrath of the Greek gods, but also by the gold accented cover.
The blue hues in conjunction with the gold and black quickly grabbed my attention and I found myself lingering over the intricate details in the two moons, the birds and the tree branches stemming from the woman’s hands, hinting at the roots of her magic. The title placement, as well as the font, add to the cover’s appeal, borrowing from the Greek column designs.
The Plot
The story, overall, is the same: Jason and his Argonauts come looking for the golden fleece on the island of Colchis, where they meet Medea, a young girl shunned for her magic abilities who is willing to do everything in her power to escape the tiny world she lives in. Bewitched by Jason’s words and handsome face, she decides to help him and his crew pass through her father’s trials.
Once they obtain the famed fleece, they flee the island and are caught in an adventure on the treacherous sea, which seems to hint at the future awaiting Medea.
Thoughts
Honestly, I think I got too excited for this story. Just like I did with Circe, which kind of disappointed me. I went in with pretty high expectations, thinking I would meet a very strong woman, shaped by the difficult life she lived with her family, a woman who was smart and knew what she wanted. Instead, I found a weak girl who got easily manipulated by a dashing hero into killing one of her family members and triggering a power she was not ready to handle.
One other thing that bothered me greatly were the vulgarities encountered throughout the book, as we are thrown into a pretty nasty scene somewhere in the first few pages, once Jason comes to her island, as well as some rather strong language which did not seem to integrate too well into the context. It felt like I was thrown into an R-rated movie with a distasteful scene. I guess some would call this fan-service or spice but, seriously, it was just plain unsavory to me.
The magic system was also rather dull and left little to no impression on me. I had expected Medea to struggle with the magic, to have some sort of gruesome training or failed attempts, but instead she controls everything so well every single time (except when she faints later on). There was so much potential here and the writer chose to ignore it. Oh, and I was also rather confused at some comparison the writer made when Medea was using her newfound magic, as she chose to mention a surgeon and a scalpel—JUST WHY?!
One other aspect I hated was the insta-love trope. While I do understand the lack of her family’s love made the girl quickly get infatuated with the first and second guy she meets, this didn’t help moving the story forward. It made the entire foundation rather weak and hard to believe.
Overall, the book failed to impress me. On the contrary, it left a rather bitter aftertaste, as there was a lot of potential and quite a few different ways the writer could have handled Medea’s past and present. She could have definitely shaped her into a stronger protagonist or made her the villain history draws her as, instead of turning her into a headless damsel in distress.
For more reviews: https://witsandtwists.wordpress.com/
This is why, before jumping into the review, I would like to start with a thank you to Netgalley and Random House UK, Transworld Publishers, for granting me permission to read the book ahead of its publication, in exchange for an honest opinion. By the way, the book has just published on March 21, so I believe a happy publication week should be in order.
Book Title and Cover
By this time, I am sure everyone knows I judge books by their covers and this is once again applied for this particular book. I was drawn in not only by the title, which describes the main character, the fabled daughter who kills her family members and triggers the wrath of the Greek gods, but also by the gold accented cover.
The blue hues in conjunction with the gold and black quickly grabbed my attention and I found myself lingering over the intricate details in the two moons, the birds and the tree branches stemming from the woman’s hands, hinting at the roots of her magic. The title placement, as well as the font, add to the cover’s appeal, borrowing from the Greek column designs.
The Plot
The story, overall, is the same: Jason and his Argonauts come looking for the golden fleece on the island of Colchis, where they meet Medea, a young girl shunned for her magic abilities who is willing to do everything in her power to escape the tiny world she lives in. Bewitched by Jason’s words and handsome face, she decides to help him and his crew pass through her father’s trials.
Once they obtain the famed fleece, they flee the island and are caught in an adventure on the treacherous sea, which seems to hint at the future awaiting Medea.
Thoughts
Honestly, I think I got too excited for this story. Just like I did with Circe, which kind of disappointed me. I went in with pretty high expectations, thinking I would meet a very strong woman, shaped by the difficult life she lived with her family, a woman who was smart and knew what she wanted. Instead, I found a weak girl who got easily manipulated by a dashing hero into killing one of her family members and triggering a power she was not ready to handle.
One other thing that bothered me greatly were the vulgarities encountered throughout the book, as we are thrown into a pretty nasty scene somewhere in the first few pages, once Jason comes to her island, as well as some rather strong language which did not seem to integrate too well into the context. It felt like I was thrown into an R-rated movie with a distasteful scene. I guess some would call this fan-service or spice but, seriously, it was just plain unsavory to me.
The magic system was also rather dull and left little to no impression on me. I had expected Medea to struggle with the magic, to have some sort of gruesome training or failed attempts, but instead she controls everything so well every single time (except when she faints later on). There was so much potential here and the writer chose to ignore it. Oh, and I was also rather confused at some comparison the writer made when Medea was using her newfound magic, as she chose to mention a surgeon and a scalpel—JUST WHY?!
One other aspect I hated was the insta-love trope. While I do understand the lack of her family’s love made the girl quickly get infatuated with the first and second guy she meets, this didn’t help moving the story forward. It made the entire foundation rather weak and hard to believe.
Overall, the book failed to impress me. On the contrary, it left a rather bitter aftertaste, as there was a lot of potential and quite a few different ways the writer could have handled Medea’s past and present. She could have definitely shaped her into a stronger protagonist or made her the villain history draws her as, instead of turning her into a headless damsel in distress.
For more reviews: https://witsandtwists.wordpress.com/
January 11, 2024
medea, at its heart, is a story of power and revenge, but it's also about womanhood and how it's constructed around two central stereotypes: the victim or the villain. there's a rage and a brutality that simmers just beneath the surface of this narrative, and it was delightfully dark at times as medea grapples with her identity as a witch and an outcast, but also as a sister and a wife. with beautiful prose that strikes a great balance between description and action, and a characterisation of medea that was compelling and fascinating, this book is an amazing addition to the popular genre of feminist retellings of greek mythology.
a great retelling about an incredible character, regardless of whether or not you're familiar with the original story. 4 stars.
a great retelling about an incredible character, regardless of whether or not you're familiar with the original story. 4 stars.
March 21, 2024
Medeas traumatic story is presented beautifully and lyrically by the author.
A disturbing story it may be but I found this retelling to be highly engrossing and emotive.
The complexity of Medeas character is laid bare and evolves throughout. Other characters, such as Atalanta also shine.
It’s dark and it’s compelling - simply five stars!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC. This is a voluntary review of my own thoughts.
A disturbing story it may be but I found this retelling to be highly engrossing and emotive.
The complexity of Medeas character is laid bare and evolves throughout. Other characters, such as Atalanta also shine.
It’s dark and it’s compelling - simply five stars!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC. This is a voluntary review of my own thoughts.
June 28, 2024
This is how you do a Greek mythology retelling! I was really looking forward to my first Medea retelling- and my first Rosie Hewlett book, and I was not disappointed!
The characterisation of Medea in this was PERFECT. Medea is a morally grey character and is depicted as such, you are constantly torn between sympathising with her and being horrified at what she's doing. The book doesn't shy away from Medea's darker side and the brutality with which she uses her magic.
On top of that, Jason is wonderfully hateable and adds another layer of emotion to your feelings towards Medea as you can see how he is manipulating her, which was so frustrating but brilliant to read.
I loved everything about this book, all the characters, the setting of Ancient Greece and all the different places and journeys Medea goes on, the development of Medea's character. It was all perfect, I can't fault it.
I can't wait to see what Rosie Hewlett does next!
The characterisation of Medea in this was PERFECT. Medea is a morally grey character and is depicted as such, you are constantly torn between sympathising with her and being horrified at what she's doing. The book doesn't shy away from Medea's darker side and the brutality with which she uses her magic.
On top of that, Jason is wonderfully hateable and adds another layer of emotion to your feelings towards Medea as you can see how he is manipulating her, which was so frustrating but brilliant to read.
I loved everything about this book, all the characters, the setting of Ancient Greece and all the different places and journeys Medea goes on, the development of Medea's character. It was all perfect, I can't fault it.
I can't wait to see what Rosie Hewlett does next!
October 28, 2024
This is an example of what I call "and then" storytelling. Medea was born. And then she was ten and something happened. And then she was 16 and something happened. And then Jason showed up. And then she got on a boat. And then, and then... and then 10 years passed. And then she did magic. And then five years passed. And then...
A story that is supposed to be about a powerful woman, ends up being mainly about a man. Everything happens to Medea, and time and time again she is surprised. Sure she is like a naive princess, at first, but you never see her learn a lesson, and the story moves on with another "and then".
A story that is supposed to be about a powerful woman, ends up being mainly about a man. Everything happens to Medea, and time and time again she is surprised. Sure she is like a naive princess, at first, but you never see her learn a lesson, and the story moves on with another "and then".
December 28, 2024
‘Death is a terrible burden for anyone to carry,’
I think this book starts strong, Medea isn't weak, isn't sentimental, and she doesn't really care!
‘Why did you do this?’ he asked.
‘Because I can,’ I replied. Apparently, that was the wrong answer.
Although this line didn't stay consistent until the end, and I wasn't completely thrilled about the characters' development but as it was engaging enough, so I thought it deserved four stars.
I have often wondered if there is a monster inside me, cloaked in the skin of a young, quiet girl. Perhaps everyone can see it pacing restlessly beneath the surface, and that is why they keep their distance.
Do you know what the biggest problem is with the retellings of Medea?
Why do we so desperately want to blame Jason for everything, as if every monstrous act by Medea was done for him?
Why should Medea be portrayed as strong, in love, and only under Jason's command?
Why Medea cant be a crazy, messed up one, a monster, who she can't let them put her aside, or bear the burden of lose?!
Why had we always wanted to pull out a good woman inside her?
Please, let one woman not be a good one, fooled, or deceived by men.
"He must love me. Because if this is not love, then what else is it?"
I personally think a woman could do all the devious and monstrous by herself and even enjoy it without hesitation. Why do we insist that a horrible father or lover is necessary for that?
Thank you Random House UK, Transworld Publishers via NetGalley for DRC. I have given my honest review.
I think this book starts strong, Medea isn't weak, isn't sentimental, and she doesn't really care!
‘Why did you do this?’ he asked.
‘Because I can,’ I replied. Apparently, that was the wrong answer.
Although this line didn't stay consistent until the end, and I wasn't completely thrilled about the characters' development but as it was engaging enough, so I thought it deserved four stars.
I have often wondered if there is a monster inside me, cloaked in the skin of a young, quiet girl. Perhaps everyone can see it pacing restlessly beneath the surface, and that is why they keep their distance.
Do you know what the biggest problem is with the retellings of Medea?
Why do we so desperately want to blame Jason for everything, as if every monstrous act by Medea was done for him?
Why should Medea be portrayed as strong, in love, and only under Jason's command?
Why Medea cant be a crazy, messed up one, a monster, who she can't let them put her aside, or bear the burden of lose?!
Why had we always wanted to pull out a good woman inside her?
Please, let one woman not be a good one, fooled, or deceived by men.
"He must love me. Because if this is not love, then what else is it?"
I personally think a woman could do all the devious and monstrous by herself and even enjoy it without hesitation. Why do we insist that a horrible father or lover is necessary for that?
Thank you Random House UK, Transworld Publishers via NetGalley for DRC. I have given my honest review.
July 30, 2024
Holy Moly, this retelling brings the drama (so, have the popcorn ready). Medea and Jason are such a hot mess. Ah, hahaha but also 😩🤦🏽♀️.
I *knew* the story, but Hewlett’s voice cuts & serves us feminist rage in a way that makes me want to give a standing ovation.
I remember when I first heard the story, I just thought there was zero redemption for Medea. But Hewlett paints so many shades of grey- that you could #bookclub this book, and realize the audience will not always agree on what they felt.
My thanks to #netgalley & SOURCEBOOKS Landmark for the eARC.
4.25/5
I *knew* the story, but Hewlett’s voice cuts & serves us feminist rage in a way that makes me want to give a standing ovation.
I remember when I first heard the story, I just thought there was zero redemption for Medea. But Hewlett paints so many shades of grey- that you could #bookclub this book, and realize the audience will not always agree on what they felt.
My thanks to #netgalley & SOURCEBOOKS Landmark for the eARC.
4.25/5
July 25, 2025
Medea is a dark feminist Greek mythology retelling that explores the life of one of its most infamous women. Told from Medea’s perspective, it reimagines her story from childhood through love, betrayal, and eventual infamy.
I knew going in how the story would end, and it still caught me completely off guard. This retelling doesn’t ask for sympathy, but it does ask you to sit with discomfort and complexity, and it does it beautifully.
This version of Medea is fierce, flawed, and painfully human. We follow her from childhood to motherhood through heartbreak, betrayal, and the slow unravelling of who she thought she was.
You can feel the rage building with every injustice, every manipulation, every time someone tries to diminish her power. There’s something quietly devastating about watching her try so hard to love and be loved, only to be betrayed by the people she gave everything to.
The writing is lush and lyrical with a mythic quality that suits the story well, though it never loses the raw emotion at the centre. What stood out most to me, though, was how layered Medea felt. She’s not written to be a hero or a villain. Just a girl who’s been hurt, who wants love, who carries both immense power and immense pain.
I also really appreciated the female relationships in the story. Characters like Circe and Atalanta help shape Medea’s sense of self and show her what it means to have power that doesn’t come from men.
This isn’t a redemptive version of Medea. It doesn’t soften her or justify what she becomes. But it does make her feel deeply human. And by the end, I felt heartbreak and horror in equal measure.
Highly recommend it to everyone who loves female rage, flawed characters, and Greek mythology retellings.
4.5 stars!!
I knew going in how the story would end, and it still caught me completely off guard. This retelling doesn’t ask for sympathy, but it does ask you to sit with discomfort and complexity, and it does it beautifully.
This version of Medea is fierce, flawed, and painfully human. We follow her from childhood to motherhood through heartbreak, betrayal, and the slow unravelling of who she thought she was.
You can feel the rage building with every injustice, every manipulation, every time someone tries to diminish her power. There’s something quietly devastating about watching her try so hard to love and be loved, only to be betrayed by the people she gave everything to.
The writing is lush and lyrical with a mythic quality that suits the story well, though it never loses the raw emotion at the centre. What stood out most to me, though, was how layered Medea felt. She’s not written to be a hero or a villain. Just a girl who’s been hurt, who wants love, who carries both immense power and immense pain.
I also really appreciated the female relationships in the story. Characters like Circe and Atalanta help shape Medea’s sense of self and show her what it means to have power that doesn’t come from men.
This isn’t a redemptive version of Medea. It doesn’t soften her or justify what she becomes. But it does make her feel deeply human. And by the end, I felt heartbreak and horror in equal measure.
Highly recommend it to everyone who loves female rage, flawed characters, and Greek mythology retellings.
4.5 stars!!
May 10, 2025
Edit…I know, I know…I said I dnffed and now here I am having finished it. What am I? A liar? Well full disclosure…I only read the first third of the book and the last maybe 20%, so maybe but here’s why. After reading reviews and finding a couple that seemed to align with how I was feeling about the book, they both thought the last 20% was good and because I was familiar with the story, I was curious, so i read that last 20%. I think if I had read the book instead of listening I might not have disliked it as much as I had. It was a better experience reading it rather than listening. It was somewhat satisfying to see Jason’s plan unravel and yes, it was satisfying that Medea did it. I was mostly satisfied with the badass that Medea embraces in herself and I thought the author ascribed a fair reasoning for her actions.
Spoilers ahead, so look away if you don’t want to be spoiled…But the discussion with the sister at the end, where the sister tries to mentally absolve Medea by blaming Medea’s actions on the abuse Medea experienced, I felt detracted from a point already made and I didn’t care for that.
End of spoilers…So the first chapter and last 20%, good. The in between, not so much for me, although perhaps it was partly the fault of listening rather than reading. I think I’ll keep this (I usually unhaul a book rated 3 stars and under) and perhaps reread it at another time to see if I like it better.
A third of the way through and I low key hate it. Don’t like the first person narrative. Don’t like the character. Where’s the character that turned her brother into a pig? I liked that girl. She had spunk. I like spunk. Teenaged Medea didn’t have it. Teenage Medea moons about Jason and feels a lot of self pity. Teenaged Medea is like reading ya but with a little sex thrown in. In short…I am bored. My reading list is turning into a dnf bloodbath this month.
Spoilers ahead, so look away if you don’t want to be spoiled…But the discussion with the sister at the end, where the sister tries to mentally absolve Medea by blaming Medea’s actions on the abuse Medea experienced, I felt detracted from a point already made and I didn’t care for that.
End of spoilers…So the first chapter and last 20%, good. The in between, not so much for me, although perhaps it was partly the fault of listening rather than reading. I think I’ll keep this (I usually unhaul a book rated 3 stars and under) and perhaps reread it at another time to see if I like it better.
A third of the way through and I low key hate it. Don’t like the first person narrative. Don’t like the character. Where’s the character that turned her brother into a pig? I liked that girl. She had spunk. I like spunk. Teenaged Medea didn’t have it. Teenage Medea moons about Jason and feels a lot of self pity. Teenaged Medea is like reading ya but with a little sex thrown in. In short…I am bored. My reading list is turning into a dnf bloodbath this month.
September 19, 2024
RANT INCOMING
I have entirely mixed feelings about this book. On the positive side, it actually does not fall into the usual trap when retelling a myth from a side character’s POV. This story is very much ABOUT Medea. She is not a framing narrative to tell Jason and the Argonauts story, but a central figure in her own story. We hear about them and the golden fleece, but entirely in the context of Medea and her experiences and her feelings. This story imagines a rich backstory and inner life for her and allows her to take center stage.
It DOES however fall into the trap of crafting a victim narrative to redeem an infamous woman. Instead of a story exploring a complicated sorceress who embraces her magic to do terrible things, we got the story of a woman who was abused, manipulated, and gaslit into using her magic to do terrible things. In attempting to redeem Medea, this story strips her of her agency and her power. It was absolutely infuriating to read. I was waiting and waiting and WAITING for Medea to take control of her life and enact her revenge, but when she finally does, it was only for a few chapters at the end of the book. It was not enough.
I had a good long internal debate about how to rate this book and I think I'm going for 2.5 stars rounded up to 3. Apart from my emotional turmoil while reading, this actually is very well-written. The writing is evocative, the pacing was fantastic, and the audiobook narration was top-notch. Despite being annoyed for most of the book, I wanted to continue reading because the story pulled me along so effectively. Unfortunately though, if you're looking for satisfying story about a woman history has cast as an irredeemable villain, this is not the one.
I have entirely mixed feelings about this book. On the positive side, it actually does not fall into the usual trap when retelling a myth from a side character’s POV. This story is very much ABOUT Medea. She is not a framing narrative to tell Jason and the Argonauts story, but a central figure in her own story. We hear about them and the golden fleece, but entirely in the context of Medea and her experiences and her feelings. This story imagines a rich backstory and inner life for her and allows her to take center stage.
It DOES however fall into the trap of crafting a victim narrative to redeem an infamous woman. Instead of a story exploring a complicated sorceress who embraces her magic to do terrible things, we got the story of a woman who was abused, manipulated, and gaslit into using her magic to do terrible things. In attempting to redeem Medea, this story strips her of her agency and her power. It was absolutely infuriating to read. I was waiting and waiting and WAITING for Medea to take control of her life and enact her revenge, but when she finally does, it was only for a few chapters at the end of the book. It was not enough.
I had a good long internal debate about how to rate this book and I think I'm going for 2.5 stars rounded up to 3. Apart from my emotional turmoil while reading, this actually is very well-written. The writing is evocative, the pacing was fantastic, and the audiobook narration was top-notch. Despite being annoyed for most of the book, I wanted to continue reading because the story pulled me along so effectively. Unfortunately though, if you're looking for satisfying story about a woman history has cast as an irredeemable villain, this is not the one.
August 22, 2024
The Witch of Colchis by Rosie Hewlett is the story of Medea and Jason and how he rides her skirt through life. Claiming credit and glory from her accomplishments, using her magic to save himself, and then ultimately betraying her. This story is a brutal lesson not to give up yourself or your life for anyone.
I love Rosie Hewlett's writing style. This book is a must-read for mythology lovers!
Thank you, NetGalley, RB Media, and SOURCEBOOKS Landmark, for advanced copies of The Witch of Colchis in exchange for an honest review. I enjoyed it!
The narrator, Kristin Atherton, did a wonderful job in the audio version. Her voice was perfect for this story, and her melodic cadence and soft accent held me captivated.
I love Rosie Hewlett's writing style. This book is a must-read for mythology lovers!
Thank you, NetGalley, RB Media, and SOURCEBOOKS Landmark, for advanced copies of The Witch of Colchis in exchange for an honest review. I enjoyed it!
The narrator, Kristin Atherton, did a wonderful job in the audio version. Her voice was perfect for this story, and her melodic cadence and soft accent held me captivated.
June 9, 2025
Me ha gustado la historia de Medea que apenas conocía, desde el inicio me ha gustado Medea, y también me ha gustado como evolucina el personaje a lo largo de la novela, el inicio me ha gustado mucho,
Hay pocos personajes que me hayan gustado además de Medea, la que más Atalanta, Orfeo, y Meleagro también y Circe, en cierta medida. Eetes, el padre de Medea, Apsirto y Jason son los personajes que menos me han gustado de la novela.
Para terminar, creo que cierta frase que aparece casi al final del libro, sobre Jason y mi opinión coincide con ella, más o menos dice esto.
Hay pocos personajes que me hayan gustado además de Medea, la que más Atalanta, Orfeo, y Meleagro también y Circe, en cierta medida. Eetes, el padre de Medea, Apsirto y Jason son los personajes que menos me han gustado de la novela.
Para terminar, creo que cierta frase que aparece casi al final del libro, sobre Jason y mi opinión coincide con ella, más o menos dice esto.
March 8, 2024
Ah, Greek mythology retelling my old love. Do I feel just a little burned out by too many books released in this genre at the moment? Yes. Will I stop reading it? No. So here I am, having finished yet another retelling, and the second one about Medea in the span of a few weeks. Which was an interesting experience, to be able to directly compare the two.
Both of them chose to tell the story of Medea, best known for her marriage to legendary hero Jason and for, well, killing her own children rather differently. Hewlett lets her have a dark side, a lust for power that is mostly, but not entirely grown out of trauma and the mistreatment and abuse by her father and her brother. Medea is powerful, taught by Circe to wield her magic given by the goddess Hecate herself, but forbidden from using it unless her father wills it. She is his weapon, just like she will be Jason's weapon later on.
I enjoyed reading this version of her. There is a lot of nuance to her and her decisions, including the Big One nearing the end of the book. Hewlett clearly used both the Ovid and the earlier traditions of Medea's story as her inspiration but puts her own spin on the tale (for example, Absyrtos is already a grown man in this retelling, sent out with his fleet to recapture Medea and the fleece, and while it is Medea who kills him, she's manipulated by Jason to do so and Jason and his Argonauts cut him into pieces without her knowledge).
I did feel like Medea's infatuation with Jason, although obviously born of her horrible experiences with men before him and the trauma that comes with them, was played out a little too extremely at times and made her look a lot more stupid then we were told she is. While she has her aforementioned dark side, I also felt like too much emphasis was put on her being 'corrupted' by dark magic. I wanted her to have even more rage, to be more vindictive, to be allowed to have that dark side without it being partly blamed on a magical force. Jason is also a very onedimensional character in this one - he's just a villain, plain and simple, just one that is a little charming at first. The side characters are generally a bit hit and miss - most of them are just flat, but then there's Atalante who was given a greater focus and who really shines. Was I secretly hoping for a complete plot twist that has Medea run off with her to become happy wives and ignore the realities of Greek myths? Yes, maybe. Alas...
All in all, in a sea full of feminist retellings of Greek myths, Hewlett's Medea doesn't stand out. It's perfectly fine and enjoyable, it does what we expect it to do, but it also doesn't do anything more. It's well-written, although it sometimes feels a bit rushed getting from one Significant Story Beat to the next Significant Story Beat. It's an easy, quick read and if you're interested in Medea's story, I do still recommend this book for you.
Many thanks to Transworld and Netgalley for the arc!
Both of them chose to tell the story of Medea, best known for her marriage to legendary hero Jason and for, well, killing her own children rather differently. Hewlett lets her have a dark side, a lust for power that is mostly, but not entirely grown out of trauma and the mistreatment and abuse by her father and her brother. Medea is powerful, taught by Circe to wield her magic given by the goddess Hecate herself, but forbidden from using it unless her father wills it. She is his weapon, just like she will be Jason's weapon later on.
I enjoyed reading this version of her. There is a lot of nuance to her and her decisions, including the Big One nearing the end of the book. Hewlett clearly used both the Ovid and the earlier traditions of Medea's story as her inspiration but puts her own spin on the tale (for example, Absyrtos is already a grown man in this retelling, sent out with his fleet to recapture Medea and the fleece, and while it is Medea who kills him, she's manipulated by Jason to do so and Jason and his Argonauts cut him into pieces without her knowledge).
I did feel like Medea's infatuation with Jason, although obviously born of her horrible experiences with men before him and the trauma that comes with them, was played out a little too extremely at times and made her look a lot more stupid then we were told she is. While she has her aforementioned dark side, I also felt like too much emphasis was put on her being 'corrupted' by dark magic. I wanted her to have even more rage, to be more vindictive, to be allowed to have that dark side without it being partly blamed on a magical force. Jason is also a very onedimensional character in this one - he's just a villain, plain and simple, just one that is a little charming at first. The side characters are generally a bit hit and miss - most of them are just flat, but then there's Atalante who was given a greater focus and who really shines. Was I secretly hoping for a complete plot twist that has Medea run off with her to become happy wives and ignore the realities of Greek myths? Yes, maybe. Alas...
All in all, in a sea full of feminist retellings of Greek myths, Hewlett's Medea doesn't stand out. It's perfectly fine and enjoyable, it does what we expect it to do, but it also doesn't do anything more. It's well-written, although it sometimes feels a bit rushed getting from one Significant Story Beat to the next Significant Story Beat. It's an easy, quick read and if you're interested in Medea's story, I do still recommend this book for you.
Many thanks to Transworld and Netgalley for the arc!
April 6, 2024
This is a superb Greek myth retelling written with emotional depth and an expert interpretation of the character's life and experiences. Written as very morally grey in this account, Hewlett paints a complex character of Medea who is damaged through misogyny, abuse, coercion, prejudice and more. Her loneliness at times is desperately sad and the pain she experiences from the betrayal of those closest to her heartbreaking. Hewlett manages to never defend Medea for her violence, but does provide us with a detailed look at her psychology and the reasons for her choices, without excusing or diminishing. This book is smart and compelling.
This honest review is given with thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this book.
This honest review is given with thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this book.
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