Member Reviews
I just wrapped up listening to the audiobook of The Witch of Colchis and I'm such having an overwhelming response to the book. - I'm sad, angry, despondent, and wanting for more! It's written impeccably well, the narration is absolutely top notch. I was along for the ride, feeling all the emotions along side Medea, experiencing her pains, her triumphs, her joy, her indifference and everything in between! When they described it was of fans of "Circe" and other books alike, they did not miss the mark!
If you're not familiar with Medea's story, please watch out for subtle/indirect triggers for abuse by a parent. It is a sad, tormented story of a powerful woman, who is constantly taken advantage for what she can accomplish for everyone around her. Rosie Hewlett delivers in drafting a tale that is memorable in ways I cannot fully describe. I will shout from the rooftops about how great this book is - an absolutely 5 star for me! If you're looking for a Greek myth, retold with fully fleshed out characters, a storyline that is fast paced, morally and ethically gray people that you cant help but root for - this is it!
"The world tried to make me a victim so I became its villain"
The Witch of Colchis embodies the phrase "I support women's rights, but more importantly I support women's wrongs. Written in beautiful prose Hewlett hooks you in the first few pages. The story of Medea has never been told with such understanding and compassion. Hwelett does an impeccable job of portraying Medea's circumstances, taking on a much-feared character and turning her into a human. As you read, you empathize with Medea, and even when you're screaming for her to make a different choice, you understand why she doesn't. This book covers some heavy topics such as abuse, misogyny, and death, however, these topics are handled gracefully and in a way that is sure to help readers understand the negativity of the situation without spoon-feeding them. If you enjoyed Circe and/or Clytemnstra then this is a story you will certainly enjoy as well.
Good writing style, compelling story. They evoke emotions. An entertaining read of Medea's original story. She feels complex and 3 dimensional. It takes long in the book for her to empower herself. It felt like for most of the book she was simply being bossed by Jason.
This was a beautifully written book that gave voice to one of the most vilified women in Greek Mythology. In her own words, Medea explains the choices that led to her being branded a witch and a murderer, and in doing so, she highlights the gaslighting and misogyny at the core of Greek Mythology. I loved hearing her story, and while hindsight often made me say "No, Medea, don't," Hewlett does such an impeccable job of displaying the absolute helplessness of the cage Medea found herself in. I also loved that the end was told from the perspective of Medea's sister, Chalciope. She has some really stunning insights on the abuse and victimization that Medea had been through. Just a really well done book!
My first time reading this and listening to it so what a great time I had! I’m a huge fan of Louisa Morgan and have been trying to find anything that resembles her work and this definitely hit the spot. I love the female rage and reading this made me think of Medea is a more compelling way. We all know Jason SUCKS but this just made it all more complex and just really interesting.
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 and RB Media, for an advanced copy 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.