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45 pages 1 hour read

Stone Blind

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2022

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Book Brief

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Natalie Haynes

Stone Blind

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2022
Book Details
Pages

371

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Ancient Greece • Mythological Era

Publication Year

2022

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Stone Blind by Natalie Haynes retells the Greek myth of Medusa from her perspective, depicting her origins, her transformation into a Gorgon, and her eventual death at the hands of Perseus, who is portrayed as a spoiled demigod aided by gods. The novel weaves themes of Appearance and Monstrosity, Coping With Trauma, and Consent, Justice, and Violence, providing a counter-narrative to traditional heroics. This book includes anti-gay bias, ableism, implied death by suicide, misogyny, and sexual violence.

Mysterious

Fantastical

Contemplative

Emotional

Dark

Reviews & Readership

4.0

58,781 ratings

67%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Natalie Haynes's Stone Blind receives praise for its fresh feminist perspective on the Medusa myth, offering depth and empathy to the oft-misunderstood character. Reviewers commend the lyrical prose and engaging narrative. However, some critique it for occasional pacing issues and a complex structure that might confuse readers unfamiliar with Greek mythology. Overall, it’s an evocative retelling that balances modern sensibilities with ancient lore.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Stone Blind?

Readers who enjoyed Circe by Madeline Miller or The Silence of the Girls by Pat Barker will find Stone Blind by Natalie Haynes captivating. This book is tailored for fans of Greek mythology retellings, strong female protagonists, and lyrical prose that reimagines classical narratives from a modern perspective.

4.0

58,781 ratings

67%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Character List

Medusa/The Medusa-Narrator

The mortal Gorgon sister and protagonist, who grows up with her immortal siblings and later becomes a first-person narrator, revealing her internal struggles and response to events around her.

Medusa's immortal Gorgon sisters, who care deeply for her despite their differences and contribute significantly to the familial and emotional dynamics within their shared home.

The Olympian god of the sea and an antagonist in the story, whose actions directly impact Medusa's fate and illustrate the themes of power and masculinity.

The Olympian goddess of war and wisdom, who plays a pivotal role as an antagonist to Medusa, driven by her complex motivations and relationships with other gods.

A demigod and offspring of Zeus, tasked with obtaining a Gorgon's head, whose journey intersects dramatically with Medusa's narrative.

The ruler of the Olympian gods and father of Perseus, whose influence extends over the events and characters, embodying themes of authority and control.

The mother of Perseus, known for her protective nature toward her son and her navigation of challenging circumstances involving powerful figures like Zeus.

A royal figure whose life is intertwined with Andromeda’s rescue, carefully balancing personal agency with the expectations and events unfolding around her.

Book Details
Pages

371

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Ancient Greece • Mythological Era

Publication Year

2022

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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