A deeply compelling and refreshingly unique take on Greek mythology, that focuses on the weavers of fate themselves: Clotho, Lachesis and Atropos. Which I have to say, I genuinely loved every second of it!

The Fates (or Morai) are such an intrinsic part of soo many tales in the Greek mythology but seldom do we ever explore their persons, so getting the chance to finally do so (and explore their rather intricate and twisty backstory) was amazing! 

Weaving Clotho, Lachesis and Atropos’ experiences of life before both gods and mortals, to the golden age of Zeus’ rule and even the interwoven fates of the mortals they preside over. Rosie Garland has crafted a rich, multilayered and compelling cast of protagonists whose personalities, motivations and flaws really bring them all to life.

I especially loved that (inspite of immortality or godliness) none of their flaws are sugarcoated or glazed over, which added a depth and human-esque complexity to of all their individual struggles. 

I have to say, it’s really hard to talk about this one without spoiling the twists. But, I will say the strong focus on female voices (many of whom are either voiceless, or whose stories are much reduced in the original versions) was fantastic; and those twists that arose (and intertwined as the story unfolded) held me thoroughly in thrall. 

The themes we explore were really interesting and timely too! With thought provoking topics such as: Power, Fate, women’s autonomy, the of reclaiming forgotten voices (both marginalised and female) and the strength (and sometimes weaknesses) in the bonds of sisterhood and family. And I think would make this an amazing contender for a book club read. 

If you’ve followed me for a while, you’ll know I love retellings with a strong female presence (or feminist slant.) And The Fates— I’m glad to report — has both in spades! 

 It’s incredibly engaging and wonderfully immersive (though , with multiple POVs, and interconnected plot-lines, some may feel the narrative loses its way slightly at the halfway point.) But by the end, everything ties together nicely and the bigger picture Garland has been cleverly weaving becomes phenomenally clear.

Overall, this was such a magically realist, emotionally deep and original retelling that fans of Madeline Miller and Jennifer Saint will definitely want to consider picking up. 

Also, thanks to Quercus Books for the gorgeous PB copy.