This is a very difficult rating to give. I loved this book in many ways - the prose is indeed poetic the use of archaic language and detailed description lengthening the narrative and giving it a sweeping far reaching quality that emulates the epics and myths of it’s cannon. The questions raised about other myths through aside comments, character’s small musings and the book’s overarching theme of stories twisted make for tantalising unfinished threads. The combining of multiple myths was a feat of excellent fore planning and made for an interesting new look at the Gorgon mythos whilst reminding us just how large and interwoven the Ancient Greek mythic library is. 

However, I struggled with the character of Stheno and felt that Bear’s main theme ‘no woman is an appendage or a plus one’ was not fully realised. In fact it was only through the notes section and an article on the book that I found out this supposed main theme. Although Stheno is the main narrator of this story she lacks true independence. She finds a hobby but even that is for the purpose of telling her families’ stories with her relegated to side or cast as ‘protector’ or ‘steadfast’ only there to ensure the continuation of her sisters. Even this does not seem to be a conscious choice even when she begins to work towards a journey of self-discovery outside of her sister’s. She never questions her role and nor is it ever articulated as a role that she has had control over or longs to do. It just is. So whilst Bear may have given her some agency she does not become more than bodyguard - a protective plus one.  

I adore a Medusa retelling and this was no exception. The story was a beautiful weave of many tellings of Medusa's tale and finally brought the nother twp Gorgons into the spotlight. Stheno and Euralye were delightful, infuriating, flawed characters that I miss already. Every page made me stop and reread whole paragraphs, often aloud, just to hear Bear's incredible use of language again. This is her debut novel and I'm blown away by her understanding of the art form so far. I can't wait to see where she goes from here.