** spoiler alert ** Thank you to Grand Central Publishing and NetGalley for sending me an ARC of Medusa by Nataly Gruender in exchange for review.

4.25 stars from me~

I loved this story, as I do with most mythologies. Nataly’s writing made this very easily digestible with its easy language and smooth flow.

Medusa really got bamboozled time and time again by her family, those she trusted, and of course all who misunderstood her. A mortal girl born into a family of gods who was taken advantage of and “cursed” to turn anyone who met glances to stone.

I loved how she grew and learned to love herself even though everything she had known of life was taken from her. Reconciling and reconnecting with those who had not been the best to her really showed her openness and compassion which is incredible she still had given everything. I can’t say I wouldn’t have been a little more vengeful if I underwent the same fate. I especially loved the romance though short lived. I am always always down for a sapphic moment.

This book ended beautifully, it may not have been the happiest way but Medusa was still able to look upon her outcome with positivity and I resonated with that, she stood up for what she wanted and faced a powerful goddess with the hard facts and didn’t back down. She’s a hero.

Thank you so much for letting me enjoy this story early

I am in LOVE with this retelling. I have always been interested in Greek mythology and this story hits all of them! If you enjoy this type, you will not be disappointment. The author wrote beautifully, you can really tell the hard work that was put into making it. Here’s to hoping she writes more and I get picked to review them!
I want to thank the publisher and Netgalley for the free copy in exchange for an honest review.

This. This is how Medusa should be remembered.

I have never been a fan of the Medusa myth, I didn't see how/why she should be punished when it never seemed like her fault. Nataly Gruender has changed my mind. We get to see Medusa as she was before she became the "monster" we all know (I also didn't realize how young Medusa was). As the only mortal daughter of two sea gods, Medusa never fit as a triplet of immortal siblings. After a chance encounter with Athena she finds her way to Athens and becomes a priestess of Athena. However, for the first time ever Medusa feels beautiful and appreciated. Poseidon uses this to get closer to Medusa and violates her. Instead of aiding Medusa, Athena turns her into a snake-haired monster who turns anyone who meets her eyes to stone. She must flee Athens and try find a place where she can be safe and others can be safe from her. But she cannot escape her fate.

Unlike many Greek retellings that I have read, Gruender writes the gods with a modern flare while still treating them as ancient beings with thousands of years of stories. The dialog was refreshing and the description of Athena struggling to stay relevant to mortals really hit home. While reading I cried for Medusa, I screamed at Perseus, I begged Athena, and I hated Poseidon. Not since Song of Achilles have I felt so deeply with a mythology retelling.

If you are looking for your next Greek mythology retelling you NEED to pick this debut novel up. I am excited to see what Nataly Gruender comes up with next.

Tiktok and Instagram posts incoming.

“They may call you what they like but that does not make you who you are.”

Nataly Gruender’s debut novel, Medusa, breathes new life into the myth of Medusa, transforming her from a mere monster into a complex, resilient character. This retelling remains true to the core elements of the myth while providing a fresh, and slightly feminist perspective.

The story begins with Medusa as the only mortal among the Gorgon sisters, destined by a prophecy to become a monster. The sisters’ journey from their secluded house on the beach to Athens marks the start of Medusa’s transformation. In the city, as a priestess of Athena, Medusa finds her true calling, but her life takes a tragic turn when Poseidon rapes her at Athena’s altar. And, unable to punish the god, Athena turns Medusa into a monster. Gruender skillfully navigates Medusa’s journey as she learns to live with her new form, finding companionship with Dionysus, a naiad, Echidna (and Cerberus), and eventually reconnecting with her sisters.

Gruender’s portrayal of Medusa as a tragic yet resilient character is both engaging and thought-provoking. The novel delves into Medusa’s inner world, exploring her motivations and the choices she makes with the prophecies she’s been given in mind. This depth of character adds a new dimension to the well-known myth, making Medusa more relatable and human.

The novel strikes a delicate balance between staying true to the myth and introducing new elements—like her friendship with Dionysus or the bond she shares with the naiad. Furthermore, Gruender’s interpretation of Athena as a pragmatic figure who makes decisions based on logic rather than empathy is particularly compelling and offers a more nuanced view of her actions.

While the prose is generally vivid and engaging, there are moments where it becomes lengthy, and certain aspects of the story could have been expanded upon. For instance, the romance between Medusa and the water nymph Naidah felt slightly underdeveloped and somewhat flat. Additionally, on some occasions, the dialogue also felt too modern and out of place compared to the narration style.

All in all, despite these minor flaws, Medusa is a compelling retelling of a classic myth. It’s a tender and inspiring exploration of what it means to be a monster and the power of resilience. It is a must-read for fans of Greek mythology authors like Madeline Miller, Jennifer Saint, and Natalie Haynes, and those looking for a refreshing tale of feminine rage, acceptance, and the complexities of power and ethics.

Thank you to NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!

Ever since reading “Circe” a few years back, I’ve been obsessed with retellings of Greek myths and this one is no different. I was totally sucked into Medusa’s world from the very start and loved following her through her journey of self discovery.

I would absolutely recommend this to fans of Madeline Miller and Natalie Haynes or anyone who enjoys tales of the importance of sisterhood and self-love.

Once again I have found another author who has written a beautiful story surrounding Medusa! The multi POV was great, I really liked the history and pre-Gorgon era of Medusa in this story! A must read!

I have read a few different books that focus on Medusa's story and this by far is my favorite of them all. Medusa's story always varies depending on the POV and way they are wanting to represent her. Nataly's version of Medusa humanizes her and shows every shade of her. We get to see her as a daughter, a dedicated priestess, a friend, a sister, and even a monster at times. Medusa knows her fate from the beginning and essentially her life has become a clock of different events where she tries to find the little moments of peace and happiness before her end. Medusa's journey was one where we were introduced to different characters along the way that she formed a connection with and impacted her life. Some of these characters I wouldn't have thought she would cross, but I enjoyed her friendships with them. I will always always recommended this book to friends that love Medusa and Greek Mythology. So thankful to have read this book that gives Medusa's story justice and paints her perfectly.

I cannot pass up a Medusa retelling and this was a unique look at a well known myth. I loved how Gruender incorporate other figures from Greek myths. You can’t help but root for Medusa even though you know her sad fate. I think the comparisons to Madeline Miller are fair so if you’re a Circe fan than you’ll want to read this one!

Medusa is such a strong woman. This book does her story justice and really shows that even though you experience something traumatic, there are always others there to lift you up and lend you strength when needed. Nataly Gruender leads us through every aspect of Medusa's story. She starts with her early childhood, then her time in Athens and the traumatic event, and then how Medusa handles the aftermath. I really enjoyed the different relationships throughout the book. I love Greek mythology, so it was really fun to see which Gods/Goddesses assist Medusa along her journey. Thank you NetGalley and Nataly Gruender for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!

This should be required reading in regards to your love and hyperfixation of Greek Mythology. Even if it isn't a hyperfixation, this feels so true to Medusa's story and giving her the voice that she so rightfully needs. Loved this telling of Medusa's background and the importance that the author ensured that the POVs were always within a woman's POV. The author approached the sensitive nature of Medusa's story with such delicacy. Would 10000% recommend.

Thank you to the publisher for providing a physical copy of the ARC and thank you to Netgalley for providing an ALC. The narrator was perfect and I would read again both traditionally and through audio.

Please note I will follow up with additional links to this review when a podcast episode goes up for ACOFAE PODCAST with a discussion with the author.

I adored this so much.

I read a lot of Greek Retellings and a lot of them cite Song of Achilles or Circe for something (or the copy mentions it), but this was one I felt really lived up to the name. The story of Medusa is really quite sad, considering how Athena took out the punishment on her, but I really loved how she came into her own.

A small part of me wanted this to be all about murderous women!!! but as I continued to read, it was so much better that it wasn't about that. It was a sad and lovely story about a women who finds herself, understands her family better, and manages to overcome a horrific thing AND ALSO the other horrific thing that is happened to her.

I really enjoyed this! Thank you to Grand Central Publishing and NetGalley for a chance to read and review.

We’ve probably all heard of the Greek mythology surrounding the creature Medusa, but Nataly Gruender has written a beautiful tale of her backstory from the “monster’s” perspective that is a beautifully somber reading experience.

While I wouldn’t say that this poignant story should come with a box of tissues, I do believe that many readers will find it truly moving and a tad bit gut wrenching. Gruender lays bare her humanity and vulnerability in a way that made me feel very close to Medusa. I even found myself immensely proud of her by the end of the book, but wishing that life had dealt her a gentler card.

Gruender also expanded on Medusa’s relationship with her sisters, the other two Gorgons of Greek mythology, and the special bond she shared with the snakes that replaced her hair. This was particularly enjoyable and fascinating to read. Definitely a very fresh take on a very old story. I had never considered whether or not a creature such as Mudesa would be able to communicate to her snake “hair”, so finding this dialog and connection woven throughout the story made the read feel very intimate and special.

And finally, reading the author’s take on Medusa’s sexuality was like icing on the cake. After what one of the gods does to her, providing a loving romantic connection for her to balance the pain and trauma she experienced was perfectly satisfying. I won’t say anymore on this point, so that the fun isn’t completely spoiled!

Overall, Medusa was a touching and memorable read. Fans of Greek mythology retellings will love adding this story to their book shelf collections! My one qualm was that I wish there had been more of it. The relationships, her experiences, the dialog…I wanted more of it. I appreciate its digestible length and the story’s clarity, but I definitely would have enjoyed more if it had been written.

A big thank you to NetGalley and the publisher, Grand Central Publishing, for gifting me the access to the ARC of this beautiful book.

Medusa, by Nataly Gruender, was published on August 13, 2024

I love a good Greek retelling or imagining that is from the point of view from the women. While not quite as groundbreaking and polished as some in this genre, Medusa is still very much worth the read. The author has shown the complexity of the character and the rage is palpable. I will be recommending this.

This novel promises a captivating reimagining of the oft-misunderstood Medusa. By centering the narrative on her experience, the author invites readers to delve deep into the psyche of a woman unjustly transformed into a monster. Medusa’s journey, fraught with trauma and isolation, is a poignant exploration of victimhood, resilience, and the complexities of identity.

The comparison to Madeline Miller's Circe is apt, as both novels offer a feminist retelling of a mythological figure. Like Miller's work, this book seems poised to challenge traditional interpretations and offer a nuanced portrayal of a character often reduced to a one-dimensional villain.

With its exploration of Medusa's inner world and her interactions with other mythological figures, the novel promises a rich tapestry of myth and character development. The author's decision to focus on Medusa's journey after her transformation is a bold choice, offering ample opportunity to explore themes of exile, redemption, and the search for belonging.

This is a novel that has the potential to be both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant, offering readers a fresh perspective on a timeless story.

When it comes to yet another retelling of Greek myths from the POV of the monstrous women, it's hard not to think of and compare every new entry to Madeleine Miller and Natalie Haynes (specifically for Medusa). The tone of this author's take is righteously angry and is very much rooted in the outrage of the ultimate victim-blaming/cursing. Unlike being a story about Medusa, it's Medusa's POV and what makes her monstrous and what doesn't and if it is such a bad thing at all. The writing isn't the most innovative or polished compared to the craft of the previously mentioned authors. Also I found the use of contemporary lingo and turns of phrases kind of jarring in places (just the liberal use of the word "shit" took me out a lot). I did enjoy the focus of her relationship to her snakes, the development of the sisterhood between the Gorgons, her friendship with Dionysus, and the sapphic romance. Overall, this worked well as a coming of age story and a story about the indifference of gods (agents of power) and who suffers when they protect their narrative over actual lives.

Medusa's story was so much more complex than I ever knew.. I loved learning more about her back story and how she became the 'monster' that we know. She was dealt a very bad hand in life and everytime I learn more about greek mythology I realize how messed up the gods are. Humans are always a paw in their schemes. Medusa was not the villain that we know her as, the portrayal in this story had her shown as compassionate and not wanting to hurt anyone. She had a egregious act commit on her and then she was punished for it. If your a fan of Circe by Madeline Miller, you will definitely be a fan of this one as well. The pacing of this book was very good. I love all the relationships that she cultivated throughout the years. very entertaining and worth the read.

I loved this retelling of Medusa’s story told through her POV from when she was a child living on an island with her sisters up until her death. This story was very compelling and really dove deep into her life story and how she ended up as the “monster” Greek mythology told her as. I loved how the story pulled in other aspects of Greek mythology into Medusa’s story and most of them are all interwoven. The story def have some trigger warning in it but I feel like the author did an excellent job telling it in a sensitive way.

In Nataly Gruender's captivating retelling of the myth, Medusa, readers are treated to a haunting and deeply humanized version of one of Greek mythology's most tragic figures. This novel isn't just a story; it's Medusa's own voice, bringing her tale to life with raw emotion and poignant introspection.

From the outset, Gruender immerses us in Medusa's world. Born the only mortal daughter of sea gods and a devoted priestess of Athena, Medusa's life is shattered when she endures a violation by Poseidon. This pivotal event, which leads to Athena's wrath and Medusa's transformation into the feared Gorgon, is handled with a delicate balance of sensitivity and power. Gruender does not shy away from the horror of Medusa's ordeal but uses it to underscore her resilience and strength.

Medusa's journey across ancient Greece is both a physical and emotional odyssey. Blindfolded to spare others from her petrifying gaze, she ventures through a landscape teeming with mythical beings. Each encounter – whether with the irreverent Dionysus, a captivating nymph, or the formidable Cerberus – adds layers to her character, revealing her quest for understanding and acceptance amidst her anguish.

Gruender's prose is lush and evocative, painting a vivid picture of ancient Greece while delving deep into Medusa's psyche. The novel explores themes of monstrosity and humanity, prompting readers to question who the true monsters are. Is it the woman cursed for a crime she didn't commit, or the society that condemns her? Medusa's internal conflict, as she grapples with her curse and the potential for violence, is compelling and heart-wrenching.

As Perseus, the boy-hero commanded to bring back her head, closes in, the tension in the narrative tightens. Medusa's choices in the face of impending doom highlight her complexity and depth, making her a character who is both relatable and unforgettable. The climax of the story is a powerful meditation on fate, choice, and the enduring struggle for one's humanity in the face of overwhelming adversity.

Medusa by Nataly Gruender is a masterful reimagining of a classic myth, giving voice to a character long overshadowed by her monstrous image. It's a story of survival, transformation, and the search for a place in a world that fears and misunderstands you. Gruender's Medusa is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, and her tale will resonate with readers long after the last page is turned. This novel is a must-read for fans of mythology, feminist retellings, and anyone who loves a story of triumph over adversity.

This is a great retelling of Medusa. The author gives us her background with her family, her sisters, and her feelings of being an outcast because of her status as a mortal. We also get to see a side of Medusa most haven’t-a feisty, snarky, and headstrong girl who slowly start succumbing to vanity. And while the myth, as a whole, remains the same, Medusa is a sympathetic character who faces her fate head on-desiring above all to care for, and protect, those she loves. Her heart and strength draw others to her, and heal relationships that seemed unable to be mended. She refuses to give in to her title of monster, and choose to become who she in on her own terms.

Gruender did Medusa’s story justice and gives us a heartfelt, genuine, and strong take on a figure only seen as a monster. But what makes a monster? Is it what we look like, act like, fear most? And can we decide what defines us? In this story, Medusa refuses to be what she could be and instead chooses courage. 4.5 stars

I love retellings and Greek Mythology and this story is one to read. I was in from the beginning. Every relationship that was shown played at your heartstrings, with her sister and parents. I love how this story gives us her journey, from the monster they tried to make her compared to what she was really like. Even when we know how her story ends, Nataly Gruender brings more to her character and brings out the human before being cast as the monster by Athena. As a fan of Greek Mythology, loved the appearances of the gods and everything. An amazing debut novel and looking forward to more of Nataly Gruender's writing.


Thank you Netgalley and Grand Central Publishing for a copy!