Ayana Gray has delivered an absolutely breathtaking retelling of one of mythology's most infamous and misunderstood figures. I, Medusa is everything I hoped for and more. A tragic, emotional, and ultimately empowering reimagining of a character so often reduced to a monster with snakes for hair.
This novel brings her to life in a way that makes her unforgettable.
We follow Medusa from a wide-eyed, innocent girl to a cursed woman stripped of kindness and safety but never her fire. Gray captures the slow burn of female rage so well! The way it builds and transforms in a world where men (and gods) abuse their power without consequences.
Gray does an amazing job of making the story accessible, without needing a deep understanding of the myths.
The portrayal of the gods? Just wow. Gray doesn't shy away from showing them as vain, cruel, and amused by the suffering of others. The abuse of power hits so hard here, and it made Medusa's journey all the more powerful.
If you're a fan of retellings, I, Medusa absolutely deserves a spot on your shelf. Whether you've always been fascinated by Medusa or you've only seen her as the villain in a myth, this book will completely transform the way you see her.
A stunning, unforgettable five star read!

3.5 ✨
I’m not the biggest YA fan, but I enjoyed this one! It kept me entertained and wanting to know what would happen next.
The ending fell a bit flat for me, and just didn’t give me that “wow” factor.

4.5⭐️

I really enjoyed this novel! Such a good retelling and it has awakened my high school interest into all things Medusa. A quick emotional thought provoking story. I went in knowing Medusa but reading Ayana’s version was so worth it.

The abuse of power and tragedy Medusa had to go through was so well written. I felt so connected to the characters and really felt for Medusa. I wanted to go in the book and stand up for her and her innocence.

“Men with power are always the first to be believed”

“I am Stronger now, I promise him. I will never be prey again”

The pacing was great in the first half I just wished we got a little more out of her being a “monster”. Although I still kind of enjoyed that it was short too? Because it makes sense even in the end we wouldn’t be able to see her really thrive in the power she now has….. I just always want more when reading about Medusa!

I highly recommend this book and strongly suggest a pre-order for this one!

Expected release date: November 18, 2025

Thanks NetGalley, Random House Publishing Group, and of course Ayana Gray for this eARC!

The female rage is raging!!

Medusa’s villain origin story told in the best way I can imagine. I loved this!

Medusa comes alive as we follow her from an innocent young girl to a cursed woman. The story does a phenomenal job of capturing female rage growing over time, as Medusa gradually loses her innocence and learns how unfair the world is. You’ll literally want to punch someone in the face.

If you’re not typically a Greek mythology girlie this book is still soo for you. I found it really accessible and didn’t feel like I missed out by not having a super in depth knowledge of the Gods and their myths.

The writing was just so beautiful!!

4 not 5 stars only because while the story started strong and picked back up later, it slowed for me in the middle and I felt like a lot of that development could have happened quicker or with more action thrown in. However the writing was just so good I didn’t mind reading about what felt like not much for a while.

I am emotional.

I am having a hard time putting together the words for the emotions I feel towards I, Medusa. Ayana Gray took a well known story and made it her own. Made it impactful. Made it emotional. Made it a tragedy. Made it all the things that made Medusa into…. Meddy.

When people think of Greek mythology easily they think of Zeus, Hades, Hercules, and of course the “monster” known as Medusa, the woman with snakes for hair. I had an idea of what Medusa’s story was, and I believe that Ayana Gray did really well on making it her own but still keeping her origin story true. I was especilly impressed by the research woven into the narrative and how accessible it felt, even for readers unfamiliar with Medusa.

I related a lot to Meddy. I’ve felt pain and hurt, I’ve searched for purpose. I’ve felt the sting of injustice. I’ve felt love. This story captivates all these emotions and then some.

This is not a light read. It is heavy, it is haunting. BUT It’s compelling, beautifully written, and a powerful retelling of Medussa’s story. By the end of this book I did have tears in my eyes. I, Medusa is heart breaking but it is powerful.

3.5 stars rounded to 4 for I, Medusa by Ayana Gray

I’m a sucker for anything Medusa-related, so the second I saw this ARC on NetGalley, I pounced. One of the highlights? Gray included Medusa’s sisters—finally! They’re usually treated like background statues in her myth, barely worth a footnote.

Medusa’s story has always been one of betrayal, divine jealousy, and a young girl who trusted the wrong people. While Gray’s writing is strong and her addition of Medusa’s time as an acolyte of Athena felt refreshingly new, I, Medusa still ends up treading familiar ground.

Don’t get me wrong—I enjoyed it. It’s beautifully told and compelling in many ways. I just wanted more: more originality, more bite, more something to set it apart from the dozen other retellings I’ve devoured.

This was such a fun, fiery take on Medusa’s origin—equal parts empowering, heartbreaking, and totally readable. Meddy is a fantastic narrator: scrappy, curious, and easy to root for as she tries to carve out a place for herself in a world that constantly underestimates her. The first half gave me all the coming-of-age-in-Greek-mythology vibes I wanted, and the second half really delivered on the rage and revenge. It didn’t get quite as deep as I hoped in some emotional moments, but overall it was a fast-paced, satisfying ride with just the right balance of myth, heart, and feminist bite. A solid 4 stars!

I know we’ve been told we shouldn’t… but I judge book by their covers, and this cover STOPPED ME IN MY TRACKS. My TBR pile was overwhelming and I’d halted any new requests- until I saw this masterpiece of a cover paired with such an irresistible title. Immediately I knew this was one I needed to read no matter how deep my TBR hole was.

I, Medusa is every bit the masterpiece I hoped it would be. A retelling of the story of Medusa from the gorgons lips herself, this story immerses the reader instantly into the world of Ancient Grecian mythology where the lives of mortals mingle with their pantheon of gods and goddesses. Medusa is the only mortal child of impotent and deposed sea god Phorcys and sea goddess Ceto, and her unique qualities and beauty attract the attention of several members of the pantheon. This story tells how the innocent and naive child Meddy grew up to be one of the most fierce some and hated of monsters in all Greek mythology, and it’s not at all what you’d expect.

This book does need to have a few trigger warnings assigned. While the language is not terribly explicit, there are scenes of rape, domestic violence, and several scenes of racism.

I’m rounding up to five stars for this one because it was such a good time. I do wish the epilogue didn’t exist, but alas. I did know what I was getting into.

I would like to thank Random House and NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

gods of Olympus are cruel. We know this from various sources. They polite or thoughtful with mortals or one another. Medusas story has always been particularly tragic, rather like Hercules being driven insane and killing his wife and children. Medusa sort of represents every woman who has ever been judged with scorn because she drew the unwanted attention of a man who wouldn’t take no for an answer. This is new take where she is less monster, less victim, and more empowered by her transformation, which is nice to see if still tragic. I do enjoy watching her transform from a quiet and abused young woman who is just grateful to get out into the world into an embodiment of rage and vengeance that fights back after having so much taken from her. She is a force to be reckoned with and it’s a pleasure to witness.

I enjoyed this #NetGalley read. I've always been a fan of Greek mythology so this adaptation of Medusa's story was a joy. The story deals with themes of family dynamics, parental love, courage, belonging, leadership and acceptance. A trigger warning ⚠️ around SA and grooming might be necessary but I feel it was handled delicately.

Let’s be real: Greek mythology has been riding the retelling train for a while now. Every few months, another book promises to “give the women of myth a voice” or “reclaim the villain.” And listen, I eat it up every time. But I, Medusa by Ayana Gray? This one sinks its fangs into the genre and refuses to let go. It’s raw. It’s radiant. It’s rage-filled and resonant. And somehow, despite all that righteous fury, it still manages to be tender where it counts.

We all think we know Medusaa as: snake hair, killer glare, unfortunate mirror scene. The end. But Gray digs deeper—like, Hades-depth deep. She doesn’t just ask what happened to Medusa? She asks: What if we saw her from the beginning—before the curse, before the myths, before the monstrous branding? The result is a portrait that’s fierce, heart-wrenching, and yes, deeply human.

From the very first chapter, we’re immersed in a richly textured world that reflects the complexity of ancient Greece—not just its temples and gods, but its social hierarchies, gender roles, and the ever-present specter of power in all its dangerous forms. Gray doesn’t just plop a modern mindset into a chiton and call it a day. She captures the spirit of classical antiquity while also holding up a mirror to today. And like Medusa’s gaze, that mirror doesn’t flinch.

Medusa’s arc is the heart of this novel—and oh, what a heart it is. We watch her grow from a bright-eyed, fragile mortal to something far more dangerous and divine. But Gray doesn’t take shortcuts. The transformation is slow, deliberate, and painful in the way real growth often is. Through betrayal, violence, and systemic cruelty (courtesy of both mortals and gods), Medusa builds her power not from vengeance alone, but from resilience and self-understanding. She isn’t just angry—she’s awakening.

That said, if I had one tiny critique (and I do mean tiny, like one of those snakes on her head that’s mostly just there for the vibes), it’s that I wanted more of her endgame. The buildup is phenomenal—we see all the injustices, all the reasons for her rage, all the moments that push her toward her so-called “monstrosity”—but when it comes to the final act, it felt like we were just getting started. I craved more of her power unleashed. Give me the full force of the storm she’s become! But maybe that’s just the petty mortal in me who wants vengeance to come with a flourish and a thunderclap.

Still, even with that slightly rushed finale, the emotional punch lands. And hard. I, Medusa is a triumph not because it makes Medusa likable, but because it makes her real. She’s complicated. Compassionate. Broken. Brilliant. And most importantly—she’s not the villain. Not anymore.

Ayana Gray’s writing sings. It’s poetic without being flowery, sharp without being cynical. The themes—of sisterhood, survival, bodily autonomy, and self-determination—are never just tacked on; they’re built into the bones of the story. And the result? A myth retelling that doesn’t just reimagine—it reclaims.

Bottom line: If you’ve ever looked at that old statue of Medusa and thought, What’s her story?—this is the answer you’ve been waiting for. Bold, brutal, and beautifully written, I, Medusa deserves a spot on your shelf and in your soul.

Now excuse me while I go glare into the void and dare a god to test me.

I’m such a sucker for a good retelling—and this one delivered.

The story is short and straightforward, but packed with emotion. It hurts. The way power is twisted and abused here hits hard, and Gray doesn’t shy away from showing the brutal side of the gods. There were moments I was genuinely furious at them. And yet, through all the cruelty, there’s still real love threaded between certain characters, and that balance made it even more powerful.

I’ve read plenty of takes on Medusa, so I thought I knew what was coming—but this felt fresh, like seeing her story through new eyes. Gray’s version of Medusa’s pain and strength left a mark. I’ve always found her fascinating, but this retelling made me care about her in a whole new way. 5/5

What an original retelling of Medusa’s life and one of my favorites from Greek mythology! I’ve read plenty of retellings over the years but this one stood out for its wonderful storytelling and portrayal of voice & power. Medusa was a victim before becoming one of the most powerful snake-haired Gorgons.

Ayana Gray managed to deliver a stunning retelling of Medusas life. She captured her rage, power and heartbreak through thorough storytelling leaving me completely immersed in Medusas world. From childhood to up-to-her death, recurrent themes of male power & abuse, female subordination & subservience were the driving forces for Medusa’s growth and power. Her compassion and determination is what set her apart from other characters.

I thoroughly enjoyed her character arc progression and immersion into this “monster”. Majority of the book heavily focused on her life before Athens and her journey into becoming one of Athena’s priestesses. While we do see how Medusa slowly changes, I felt that the last part of the book was too short. I wanted to see more of her villainous side—her rage, her anger. I wanted more boldness and cunningness. She went through so much, but was given so little by the end. Nevertheless, this was a fascinating take on her life and outcomes. Highly recommend, add this to your list asap!

I want to thank NetGalley, Random House Publishing Group & Ayana Gray for this GORGEOUS eARC.

Expected release date: November 18, 2025

ARC review. I’ve never read anything by Ayana Gray. She is a good writer. It read more like older YA to me but still enjoyed. I, Medusa made me see how horrible some men are and how they take advantage of women. I like how the retelling of how Medusa became Medusa. She is wickly brave to protect the ones she loves. She is smart and good at problem solving. This story did leave me emotional towards the end but her story isn’t supposed to be one of those fluffy reads.

Theo Medusa’s best friend
“he still manages to hold a light about his person, as though he’s stolen some piece of the sun and locked it deep in his chest.”

- Thank you Random House Publishing Group and NetGalley.
- Publishing on November 18, 2025

"Villain" Origin story? I think not. Medusa is a vigilante hero. From the first page I was all in for team Medusa, sure she's morally grey but I support it.
Meddy finally gets her chance to leave her home, an island where she lives with her immortal family, when the goddess Athena invites her to train at her temple. There, in Athens, Medusa quickly learns just how dangerous it is to be a woman. Her naivete about the world eventually lands her in big trouble.

I really enjoyed this reimagining of the myth that is Medusa. I loved her relationship with her sisters, their bond over hair was really beautiful.
I admittedly know nothing about Medusa other than what everyone else knows, the snakes, and the look. Ayana Gray does a great job of explaining who everyone is and where they stand in the hierarchy of gods and goddesses while giving just enough backstory too.

That ending?!?! Heartbreaking.

I wanted to share my thoughts on a book I recently finished, "I, Medusa." It's a truly beautiful retelling of Medusa's life, offering a fresh perspective on her journey.

The book follows her path from a young princess to an acolyte for Athena, and ultimately, to the figure we typically associate with her name. Her experiences throughout this transformation lead to profound realizations about life and the world around her, particularly concerning power structures and the dangers inherent in men in positions of power. These insights drive the choices she makes, which some may demonize and others may support. Despite knowing the tragic ending, I found the book incredibly compelling and an excellent retelling of her story.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

For as long as I can remember, western civilization and mythologies has ensnared me. I took classes in school and would watch documentaries. When I saw the title I, Medusa, I didn’t need much more to be interested. Medusa is not a mythological being that I have much prior knowledge of besides the bare basics. This book gave new light to the classic “villain” ya know? Maybe she wasn’t actually the villain. The only reason this book took me so long to read was because I needed to be able to fully engross myself into, I needed to give it the attention that it deserved. Ayana Gray did an absolutely wonderful job putting so much information carefully treading over triggering subjects. She did so with class and respect for her characters. This book has put a fire in me to learn more about Medusa and for that I thank you Ayana.

5 STARS

Release date: November 18, 2025
First POV

<b> One of the best books of the year! The next fantasy queen: Ayana Gray's adult debut... will not disappoint you </b>

Have you ever heard of this audio in Bookstagram: "When we're young we're taught the distinction between a hero and a villain... but what if the only real difference is just WHO'S telling the story?" well, this book will give you that feeling. YOU. WILL. NOT. BE. DISAPPOINTED.

***For this novel, you will not need to be an expert in greek mythology. Ayana does a perfect job explaining all you need to know as you dive into Meddy's story.

Oh man, where do I start? You will be captivated from the very beginning.

Medusa has lived in an island her entire life, isolated from the world along with her sisters and broken parents. When an opportunity is offered by Athena herself to become one of her priestess at Athens, Meddy takes it, developing new emotions and discovers secrets and betrayals...

So many plot twists! So many tears!
Was I expecting the ending? No, how could you Ayana! *sobs*
Ayana's writing style was breathtaking: beautiful yet easy to understand. Meddy's actions throughout the book reflected her personality and motivation. From being a fragile mortal to a fierce, powerful herroine.

Favorite quotes:
"You are not a monster... you are only what they made you."
"For the girls we could've been, if the world were kinder."

* thank you NetGalley for the arc!

I, Medusa by Ayana Gray was such an engaging read, and I really enjoyed the writing style—it kept me hooked from the start. The story dives into Greek mythology in a fresh, captivating way, which I especially appreciated since I’ve just started exploring the genre. It was really interesting to learn more about the mythological background and see familiar stories told through a new lens. Gray’s retelling had just the right mix of drama, depth, and emotion to keep the pages turning.

What really stood out to me was how the book reimagines Medusa—not just as a “monster,” but as a complex character shaped by her past. It’s a powerful reminder that monsters aren’t always born that way. The story also does a great job of shedding light on the victimization of women through history, and how those experiences can transform them. The characters are layered and full of emotion, and I found myself thinking about them even after I finished the book. Overall, it was a thought-provoking and beautifully told story.

I, Medusa by Ayana Gray
The gods are famously unjust in the story of Medusa, and Ayana Gray’s debut adult novel doesn’t shy away from investigating how the whims of deities can create a monster—or, in this case, create a woman whose power can be used for something greater. Gray’s Meddy is the child of minor gods, the invisible sibling among beautiful, immortal sisters. As Athena’s chosen priestess, however, Meddy’s given a new chance to live her own life. She begins anew in Athens, growing into her own as Athena’s chosen acolyte.

All of that is shattered in a fateful encounter with Poseidon, and Meddy is transformed; a head of snakes and a superpower don’t change Meddy’s soul, however, and the young woman becomes not a victim of her story, but a vigilante, determined to bring justice to others. Meddy’s not the only girl who has been assaulted—or groomed—and cast aside, blamed by mortals and gods for the violence they suffered. And now, Meddy’s going to do something about it.

Gray creates a Medusa who begins as a naïve young woman, but who is transformed into someone who understands exactly how capricious the gods are. For lovers of mythology retellings, this tale of a diverse and cosmopolitan Athens is definitely something to watch for when it releases in November 2025.