Reviews

O Olhar da Medusa by Natalie Haynes

nic_na's review against another edition

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adventurous emotional sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? N/A
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

caitowen26's review against another edition

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adventurous dark emotional sad tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

joaopsfernandes's review against another edition

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adventurous funny lighthearted reflective fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

In this book, readers are invited to revisit the myth of Medusa from a fresh perspective. The novel intertwines the viewpoints of Medusa, Perseus, and the gods of Olympus, offering a layered narrative that delves into the complexities of heroism, victimhood, and power. Medusa is portrayed not as the monstrous villain of traditional myth, but as a deeply misunderstood figure whose tragic fate prompts readers to question long-held assumptions about heroes and villains.

Perseus, the so-called hero of the story, embarks on his quest with the backing of the gods, yet Haynes subtly challenges the notion of heroism by shedding light on the questionable morality of his actions. Meanwhile, the Olympian gods are depicted as capricious and often self-serving, their divine meddling playing a central role in shaping the fates of mortals.

The book’s humor and light tone make it accessible, particularly for a young adult audience. Haynes’ retelling is playful yet thoughtful, offering a new take on ancient myths with a touch of modern sensibility. It’s a breezy read, but one that encourages deeper reflection on the blurred lines between hero and villain.

That said, the novel’s simplicity and lighter approach might not appeal to readers seeking a more profound or epic exploration of the myth. Nonetheless, *Stone Blind* provides a fresh perspective on familiar tales and leaves readers questioning the very nature of what it means to be a hero.

Rating: 3/5

theon0fwales's review against another edition

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adventurous medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.25

kirahaynes's review against another edition

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4.0

I know it was like interconnected stories but I went into it thinking it was only about medusa and her sisters and I’m a bit disappointed

fab_lettricelibera's review against another edition

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adventurous emotional reflective tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

bookbabe_jazzie's review against another edition

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4.0

So anyone that knows me knows I absolutely love Medusa and just Greek mythology in general. So when I saw this book back in February at Barnes and Noble I knew I needed to read it as soon as possible. And trust me it did not disappoint at all.

The story follows many storylines but they are all interconnected and intertwined. A truly cause and effect type of story and it just gives you so much prospective into a story we know.

I definitely need more stories like these! I’m too obsessed!

annsopiee's review against another edition

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adventurous mysterious fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

booksandmo's review against another edition

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adventurous dark medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5


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meagan_young's review against another edition

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5.0

I loved this!! And the audio is FANTASTIC. I’m here for these retellings that bring the women’s voices to the forefront instead of the male heroes. The heroes aren’t quite as heroic, and the villains aren’t quite as villainous. This is a story full of vengeance, punishment, love, and loss. There were parts that were heartbreaking, and other parts that I was laughing or rolling my eyes.

Medusa is and isn’t really the focus here, we definitely don’t get the usual story that would be expected with her. Instead we get a really touching look at the love of sisters, and the loss of innocence. I loved the writing from all the different kinds of perspectives. So so good