Gorgon

by Richard Humphries

Every myth comes from truth. When the gorgon Medusa is awakened from a nearly millennia-long slumber; she finds herself thrust back into the world by a young shepherd who becomes her ally in overcoming her trauma and freeing her sister from the grip of a vengeful general.

314 pages, Hardcover

Published September 28, 2023

About the author

Co-Writer and Co-Producer on the acclaimed short film 'Seize the Night,' Richard would also answer screenwriting questions in multiple issues of Digtial FilmMaker Magazine's "Ask the Filmmaker" section.

Reviews

[Eggsample · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book tells the story of Medusa, a priestess who was abused by Poseidon and later cursed and turned into a gorgon by Athena.
Aethon, the main character, is a simple shepherd who comes across Athena’s temple by accident and awakens Medusa. The two start off on the wrong foot, but end up helping each other when they find themselves under the attack of Spartans.

Although I do generally enjoy reading about Greek mythology (and I know worldbuilding is crucial in historical novels), I had a bit of trouble getting through the book, due to its really slow pace and intricate worldbuilding, so it was during the last few chapters where I truly got sucked into the story in hopes of seeing how it would all end.

One thing I did appreciate about the story is how it redeems Medusa, who was unjustly portrayed and treated as a monster, and focuses on her side of the story, even mentioning her sisters, Stheno and Euryale, who were also transformed into gorgons by Athena after trying to defend their sibling.

Lastly, despite containing some mildly graphic scenes, I would say it is appropriate for both teens and adults, and I would especially recommend it to people who enjoy thorough worldbuilding and/or historical fiction.

[Tali 🧸🤎 🧸 · Rating 3 out of 5]

Gorgon is a body of fictional retelling that follows the ancient Greek mythology of the monstrous gorgon, Medusa.

Through the first few chapters I read, the story seemed to hold potential for an interesting tale, I ultimately found the pacing a bit slow. The writing style made it hard for me to feel fully invested.

However, the book may pick up for readers with more patience for immersive world-building in the early parts of the story. Overall it showed some creative spark in its mythological source material.

Rating: 3 stars

[lessi · Rating 3 out of 5]

As someone who has always been interested in greek mythology, and specifically Medusa, I knew I would enjoy this book on some level before I even started reading it.
The storytelling and worlbuilding was great but I do think this book holds more potential for people who requires, has the patience and really likes deep world-building, here you really build up every aspect.
I think this book was written in a very creative an beautiful way and apart from the writing style(which is the only problem I had with this book) I enjoyed it.