Overview

In Medusa’s Sisters, we step away from the familiar version of Medusa’s story and into the lives of her sisters, Stheno and Euryale. Born of the sea and shaped by the gods, they live long before Medusa becomes a symbol of fear. As betrayal and violence enter their world, the sisters are changed forever. This retelling follows their journey through loss, rage, and survival, asking what it really means to be called a monster.

Writing & Voice

We found the writing rich and clear, blending myth with strong emotion. Lauren J.A. Bear keeps the language accessible while still honouring the weight of ancient stories. The voice is steady and thoughtful, letting anger, grief, and love unfold without excess.

Characters

Stheno and Euryale are the heart of the novel. They are fierce, loyal, and shaped by everything they endure. Medusa is always present, even when she is not on the page, her fate influencing every choice her sisters make. The gods feel distant and cruel, reinforcing how small mortals are within their power.

Themes

This book explores voice, injustice, and the strength of sisterhood. We see how stories are shaped by those who tell them, and how reclaiming a narrative can be an act of resistance. Transformation here is not just punishment but a form of survival.

What Worked

• Fresh perspective: the focus on the sisters adds depth to a familiar myth.
• Emotional weight: the bonds between the sisters feel real and earned.
• Clear storytelling: the mythic setting remains easy to follow.

Minor Quibbles

• Some myth references may feel assumed rather than explained.
• The pace slows at times during reflective passages.

Final Thoughts

We found Medusa’s Sisters powerful, moving, and thoughtful. It reshapes a well known myth into a story about loyalty, grief, and reclaiming identity.

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.3 / 5)