I, Medusa Review ✨

I, Medusa is a powerful retelling that finally gives depth and humanity to one of mythology’s most misunderstood figures. Instead of a monster, we see Medusa as a 17-year-old girl caught in the feud between Athena and Poseidon and forced to bear the consequences of a god’s violence.

One line that stayed with me was: “That’s the curious thing about monsters,” she whispers. “The worst ones don’t bother hiding in the dark.” It perfectly captures the book’s message about who the real monsters truly are.

Beautiful, heartbreaking, and empowering, this is a must-read for anyone who loves myth retellings or stories that reclaim a woman’s voice.

Thank you Netgalley and Random House for the arc.

(review also posted on goodreads, fable, and B&N)

#lemon8bookclub #mythologyretelling #BookReview #bookreccomendation #lemon8bookworm

2025/11/27 Edited to

... Read moreAfter diving into 'I, Medusa' by Ayana Gray, I can genuinely say this book has left a lasting impression. When I first saw the striking cover – a silhouette of Medusa with her snake-like hair on an iPad, signaling a book review – I was immediately intrigued, but I had no idea how deeply it would resonate. This isn't just a simple retelling; it's a profound exploration of one of mythology's most tragic figures, shifting our perception from monster to victim. Many of us grew up with the traditional myths of Medusa, often portrayed as a terrifying Gorgon whose gaze turns men to stone. We rarely hear about the circumstances that led to her transformation or the profound trauma she endured. Ayana Gray expertly peels back these layers, presenting Medusa as a young, vulnerable woman caught in a cosmic feud between powerful gods. The narrative brings to light the true 'mitos Medusa' – the deep-seated injustice and pain that shaped her destiny. It really makes you question who the real monsters are, a sentiment beautifully captured by the quote highlighted in the OCR: “The worst ones don’t bother hiding in the dark.” This line, set against a sunflower field on an open book icon, perfectly encapsulates the book's core message about hidden evil. What struck me most was how 'I, Medusa' delves into Medusa's trauma. The book doesn't shy away from the devastating impact of violence and betrayal, showcasing her pain, anger, and resilience. It's a powerful narrative that reclaims Medusa's story, allowing her to be seen as a complex individual rather than a mere symbol of fear. For anyone interested in a book that thoughtfully addresses 'Medusa trauma' and offers a fresh perspective on ancient tales, this 'I, Medusa' book is absolutely essential. Ayana Gray's writing style is lyrical and immersive, pulling you into Medusa's world and making you empathize with her journey. It’s a brilliant example of how myth retellings can offer contemporary relevance, exploring themes of agency, justice, and the power of a woman's voice. I highly recommend picking up 'I, Medusa' by Ayana Gray if you're looking for a read that is as thought-provoking as it is emotionally resonant.

2 comments

KUTIEquinn's images
KUTIEquinn

This is on my list to get!

D@n@ @shley🌻's images
D@n@ @shley🌻

Just bought it, can't wait to read it!

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