54 pages • 1 hour read
Ariadne
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Book Brief
389
Novel • Fiction
Ancient Greece
2021
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Ariadne by Jennifer Saint is a 2021 fantasy novel that retells the myth of Theseus and the Minotaur from the perspective of Ariadne, daughter of King Minos and sister to the Minotaur. Ariadne helps Theseus defeat the Minotaur and escapes Crete with him, but after he abandons her on Naxos, she finds solace with the god Dionysus. The story explores gender roles, heroism, and the lives of women in ancient Greece. The novel features depictions or mentions of sexual assault, domestic violence, and violence against children.
Mysterious
Melancholic
Bittersweet
Fantastical
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
136,032 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Jennifer Saint's Ariadne is celebrated for its lyrical prose and fresh perspective on Greek mythology, highlighting the strength and resilience of its female characters. Critics appreciate its feminist reinterpretation, though some feel the pacing is uneven. Overall, it’s a captivating retelling that gives voice to often overshadowed mythological figures.
Who Should Read Ariadne?
A reader who enjoys Ariadne by Jennifer Saint is likely fascinated by Greek mythology, enjoys well-researched retellings of ancient stories, and appreciates strong, nuanced female protagonists. Fans of Madeline Miller's Circe or Natalie Haynes' A Thousand Ships will find this novel particularly compelling.
136,032 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Phaedra
Phaedra
Ariadne's younger sister who becomes queen of Athens, providing a contrasting perspective on themes of marriage and independence.
Theseus
Theseus
A heroic but complex figure known for defeating the Minotaur, whose actions drive significant plot developments and affect the lives of the female protagonists.
Dionysus
Dionysus
The Greek god of wine and pleasure who forms a pivotal relationship with Ariadne, offering comfort and transformation.
The Minotaur (Asterion)
The Minotaur (Asterion)
A part bull, part human creature, born to Queen Pasiphae, and integral to Crete's mythology, whose existence impacts several characters' lives.
King Minos
King Minos
The tyrannical ruler of Crete, whose actions and demands have far-reaching consequences for his family and enemies.
Pasiphae
Pasiphae
Wife of King Minos and mother of Ariadne and Phaedra, who endures the consequences of divine curses.
Daedalus
Daedalus
A renowned inventor who constructs the Labyrinth and plays a key role in helping Ariadne and Theseus.
389
Novel • Fiction
Ancient Greece
2021
Adult
18+ years
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