Taking Medusa

Dark Gods Rising #1

by S.M. McCoy, Sky Robert, Stevie Marie (Narrator)

A Greek Myth Monster Retelling

My blood can cure death, but it can also be the deadliest poison on Earth, and the gods will try to kill me just for existing. Hades wants me to join him. Zeus is still bitter about an age-old prophecy that the dark gods, the monsters of Tartarus, will rule Olympus. And Poseidon is the key to everything, maybe even my heart, but his son, Triton, rules Atlantis, and I accidentally killed his daughter, Coraline.

All I know for certain is the gods have mistreated us "monsters" long enough, and I’m yanking through the ribbons of fate to change my history before I’m beheaded all over again.

My name is Alessandra, most call me Aless, and I had no idea my family was more than just superstitious, they were hiding me from the gods, and lying about who I was.

I was Medusa.

And now that the gods have found me… I’m destined to die.

Using current known Greek myths as we know them and retelling them from Medusa’s perspective. After all, history is written by the victors, and the bards got the story all wrong. Poets were influenced by the reigning Olympians, and Medusa still lives in Florida after convincing her over protective mom to let her go to college. Her previous life was erased from memory so the gods wouldn’t find her, but fate has a way of repeating itself, and the sea is calling for her return.

A paranormal myth and legends adventure romance that will have you flipping pages well past your bedtime to know what happens next as the dark gods rise up and prove being a hero is a matter of perspective.

10 hours and 58 minutes

Genres: Fantasy, Mythology, Romance, Fantasy Romance, Gods, Slow Burn, Retellings

11 pages, Audible Audio

Published October 13, 2023

About the author

Stevie Marie is a paranormal fantasy author born within the apex of another universe, where magic flows like leaky faucets. Forged from the fires of the Underrealm she dug her way to Earth reluctantly participating in human society, secretly returning to her home world within her mind to relay the stories of her monsters, and the troubled love of her dark heroes. When she isn’t writing she’s crafting clothing in her sewing room, cuddling her tiny humans, or pretending to adult by narrating audiobooks in the rainy city of Seattle, Washington.

Grab your first free book by joining S.M. McCoy's Fantasy Romance Newsletter: https://www.subscribepage.com/freeboo...

Connect with Stevie Marie at:
https://linktr.ee/authorsteviemarie
www.steviemarie.com
Twitter @AuthorMarie

Reviews

[Lucie V. · Rating 2 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book via BookSirens. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

✅ Greek mythology
✅ Merpeople
🆗 Prologue
🆗 Characters
🆗❌ Plot
🆗❌ Human realizing that she’s not human and is a very special snowflake instead (sorry, but it’s not my favorite trope)

1.5 stars

DNF at 40%

Did I read the same thing as everyone else?
This feels like it’s all over the place.

The prologue was more confusing than helpful. We understand that Medusa was slayed years ago and that her adoptive sister (at least I think she is) Theo was on a mission to get her body and head back and bring her back to life, but there were also so many pieces of information thrown at us without any context. Mentions of Kings or Gods and their possessions, or mentions of someone’s lineage and dark past were just there, without further explanation, and it confused me more than it helped me get an idea of the setting.

Then we are back into the present time and Medusa (aka Aless) is living with Theo and their mother, but Medusa doesn’t seem to know who and what she is. She only thinks that she has an overbearing and overprotective mother, so when she is thrown into the world of Gods and mythical creatures, she is shocked and lost. Sadly, I am not a fan of the “I was a normal human, until one day I learned that I wasn’t and that I was, in fact, a key player in this world I knew nothing about and my whole existence changed”. Of course, Aless is shocked at first, but then takes everything in strides, like learning that you are not human and being held prisoner by merpeople is not that weird.

Instead of wanting to run (or swim) away as fast as she can, Aless gets involved in something that she knows nothing about, and we continue to be bombarded with facts about Gods, without any further explanation. Exposure through dialogue is not an issue if it’s done properly, but here we only had half of the information.

It’s clear that the author researched a lot while writing this book because there are a lot of references to Greek mythology, myths, and creatures in the book, but sadly, instead of creating a complex and rich world-building, it only confused me a little more each time there was a mention of a God or their mother or their wife. I have basic knowledge of Greek mythology, and I know the names of the main Gods as well as their connections to each other, but I feel that the author incorporated her events into their backstories, without explaining them properly. For example, it was mentioned that Posseidon angered Hera when he double-crossed her while trying to overthrow Zeus, but there is nothing else said on the subject. No more explanation about what happened, so I am left wondering how that piece of information is relevant to what is happening to Aless and why the author decided to mention it at all.

The characters are bland and lack development. Aless is curious, but I don’t understand her need to get entangled in problems that aren’t her own. We also know close to nothing about her, we have no real idea about her dreams or plans for the future, besides wanting to be free of her overbearing mother. We don’t know what she enjoys or dislikes, she is a very unidimensional main character who trusts everyone way too easily, and she feels and sounds too juvenile for my taste most of the time. The author tried to paint her as this empathetic and mature character who feels sorry for monsters and her enemies, but because of the lack of depth and development, and the lack of insight into Aless’ deep thoughts, she only appeared immature and naïve.

There is no romance yet, but there might be something developing in the second half of the book. The fact that Aless is a young adult with no or not much experience makes her a blushing teen every time she sees a little bit of skin. It’s not a bad thing, since it fits with the sheltered character, but it made me roll my eyes a few times and made it even harder to feel anything for Aless.


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[S.M. McCoy]

We are 1 week away from launching book two Breaking Fate!!! Quick, add Taking Medusa to your TBR and get ready!

<3 Modern Greek Myth Retelling (check) Hot gods (check) Fated mates (check) adventure (check) Fantasy and Magic (check and check) Mermaids (got those) a giant sexy octopus/kraken (yup) prophecy and betrayal (certainly) twists that will have you turning the pages. (definitely), and a slow burn romance from Medusa's point of view that will save or end the deathless gods of Olympus. (Available in KU and Audible!)

[Lisa Bing · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a wild and engaging read that totally sucked me into Greek mythology with the spin of modern times. What I love about this story, besides the characters, world building and plot, is how I could disengage from life and just be in the story. Well written and well paced, it was exciting to follow Medusa along and explore her discoveries as she did. I feel the author did a fab job of blending factual mythology with fiction to make a page turning read. I'm really looking forward to more :D

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

It is hard to believe this is a debut book by the author. It is clear there was a lot of research that went into the mythology and history of the Greek gods/goddesses/historical accuracies (and maybe inaccuracies) along the way. I will admit the Prologue had me fumbling, but the first chapter gripped me and I was hooked. I was sucked in by Dion, Triton, Alessa and everything that they were up against. The angst of an unknown threat of the gods, the mixture of today's world while diving deep into the "lost city of Atlantis". This book really took me away into an entirely different world which I loved. I cannot wait to read more of the Dark Gods Rising Series and of S.M. McCoy's very imaginative, descriptive, beautiful world building they have created. Bravo!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Crystalclearwpg · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have always been fascinated with Greek mythology and did not realize I knew nothing about Medusa and her story until this one.
This story has it all. The greed of Gods, the politics and games the Gods played to pass time, fated mates, rekindled love, memory loss and angst among family.
Aless (Medusa unknown to her) grew up being severely coddled by her mother and when she graduated high school and had the chance to leave the nest and go to collage she ran as fast as she could. On one condition from her mother....to stay away from the water. This will send her on a path she will have no idea how to follow. She will be challenged on many levels and tested over and over again. There is a lot of mythology throughout this book and it is messy...as the Gods are very well know to be. I did get lost on some of the myth but not to the point where I didn't enjoy what I was reading. It only made me want to learn more of Greek mythology for better understanding. I was wrapped up within the fight even the Gods went through and this tale certainly gives you a different insight to their roles. I will enjoy continuing on reading this series when the next installment is released.

I received an ARC of this tale and look forward to the next. This is my unbiased review.

[Grace White Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advance listening copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was great kind of modernize twist retelling about Medusa. It was also the first book that I read from this author. I enjoy reading about mythology and this book was definitely not an exception. I feel like in the myths, etc. The only thing was that was that there were things that were a little confusing like how Medusa becomes Aless, etc. I loved the storytelling, storyline, plot, and characters and enjoyed the author’s writing. In the myths, I felt like Medusa is misunderstood and a victim so I loved that there was a story focus on the villain so I enjoyed having a book that is her point of view.

[Audra PC · Rating 5 out of 5]

HELLLOOOOOO DION!!

When I tell you I was enthralled by this book, I honestly mean it.

I love all things Mythology and this book was no exception. The world building and detail in the book.

The characters, their growth and development, the relationships, drama, and ohhhh the twists! I love how everyone was enamored with our FMC, Aless. She was strong and determined to push herself beyond her limits, as she knew them.

May the dark lords forever reign! Now don’t mind me as I start to look up the authors other works ;).

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Erin-Joi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Growing up, I was a big fan of mythology of all kinds. It was so rare to find a female hero who wasn’t just portrayed as a horrible person. It’s no wonder that to make modern fairy tales palatable, they have to be changed so much that they are no longer recognizable as the original stories. There isn’t a way to stay true to the original stories and have the heroines be strong but honorable women. Sure, Hera is vindictive, but who wouldn’t be with a husband who sleeps with everyone who has the right parts. And if they don’t have the right parts, he changes his partners so he can sleep with them. Not necessarily of their own choice.

Medusa’s name means guardian or protectress. This should tell you that she wasn’t meant to be seen as evil. Her transformation into a gorgon was a punishment by Athena for sleeping with Poseidon. Notice a pattern here? Many versions question whether the relationship between Medusa and Poseidon was consensual. Given the number of rapes in mythology, it is extremely likely to be the case for her as well.

The trope ”the princess saves herself in this one” has become popular for a reason. Everyone needs someone to look up to. Given the way the world works, this is especially important for girls. Stevie Marie has given us a Medusa who is worthy of admiration. She needs to grow into it of course, but don’t we all? After being an intelligent and slightly odd child with an overprotective family, she finds out that she can both save lives and kill people. Naturally, knowing she can kill disturbs her. This is not the way of a villain. Revelations and changes come quickly. It was fun and frustrating to go through the roller coaster of emotions that Medusa goes through in growing into the person she is at the end of the book. There are two wonderful nicknames that Medusa grows into through the book. More than one character refers to her as a goddess. Later in the book, she receives another title that I won’t reveal as a spoiler. Both are appropriate by the end of the book.

I saw some of the big reveals coming, but then I have a better than average knowledge of mythology and was looking for it. Knowing that some of the reaveals would be coming didn’t bother me. The suspense of not knowing when they would come or how they would be revealed helped. While not true to the original myth, this book “fixed” it in a way that is much better for modern audiences.

I read to escape reality as reality and my work can be unpleasant. As such, I find it important to be able to be pulled in by a story and be held in the story. This story captured my attention from start to finish. I wanted to know what happened not only to the main characters but also to everyone we met along the way. I also wanted to know everyone’s back story. Why did Coraline feel that she could get away with her actions? Just how far from the Florida coast was the sunken city? (Bimini? The Bermuda Triangle? Closer to the “Pillars of Heracles”, Gibraltar?) What happened to the rude courtier? What happened to the others in the prison? So many questions. So many possible follow-up stories. I am looking forward to the next book despite knowing that most of these will not be answered since the next book moves forward and not backward.

I received a copy of this ebook as a Beta Reader and this is a voluntary review. There were still a few minor errors. The story was so good that the errors did not disrupt the story for me. Thank you for giving Medusa a chance to be not only a “good guy” but a true Hero.

[LaWanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such an amazing book! I rarely find a book that is this good anymore. I like reading Greek mythology and Medusa has been a favorite character for a long while but there is not many books out there that really catch my attention like this one did. If you are into reading a Greek mythology retelling, give this one a try. You won't regret it! This is a story that will be continued in a series but doesn't end with an abrupt cliffhanger thank goodness. I can not wait for the next one!
I did receive this as an ARC, but in no way did that sway my review in any way. I also wasn't forced to leave a review. I'm just thrilled I got to be one of the first readers!

[Kyla Sixkiller · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book! There was a lot of mystery and almost like a “who dunnit” feel to the story! Taking Medusa as the title is actually very literal and the prologue truly gives you all the foresight you need. In hindsight I should’ve connected those dots sooner but 😂 I did not! In really enjoyed the way Greek mythology is wrapped around everything in the story. It’s a very fun, in depth, Altantis esque story. The twist and turns in the book honestly shocked me and I enjoyed the writing style of this author. I do really hope there’s a second book that will go into more detail on the prophecy that was told.

[verobero · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'll admit, I haven't read a good Greek myth book in a long loong time. Also, this book just kinda felt fast-paced and I feel like they could've spaced this into two-- that's my only complaint tho!

Thanks for the ARC, I'll be reading the other books!!

[Jessica]

DNF at 27%

I was confused after reading the prologue and it didn't get any more clear after a couple of chapters.

[Veronica Hooper · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a great retelling of the mythological Medusa. It was the first book I have read by this author and I plan to read more…starting with the next book!! I love Greek mythology anyway, and who doesn’t love Medusa?!? I loved the twists and am looking forward to more! Definitely recommend!

[Cassie Marks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Medusa has long been villianized by misogynists, and this story is one of many trying to show her in a different, more “true” light. From my recollections of mythology (as told by Liv of “Let’s talk about myths, baby”), the story seems mostly true to legend, with a lot of added flair to create an interesting narrative and spice things up. I was at times annoyed by the mc because of her actions, but needed to remember that I view the story through a different lens than someone in their 20s may. Overall, a good book, and recommended.

[Mybookmemories · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my favourite things to read is greek mythology. I haven’t read any other books from Medusa’s point of view, and I was surprised about how much I enjoyed it. It really showed a new perspective on the known myths. I can’t wait to see more from this author.

[Mica Mordon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved every second of it!

[Ketty · Rating 5 out of 5]

- Greek Mythology
- Retelling of Medusa, using less-than-common pieces of the mythos
- Fated Mates
- Love Triangle (in a not ick way)
- Second chance romance
- Recovering lost memories
- Gods vs "Monsters"
- Fast paced but not too fast
- Sort of a cliffhanger but not really, sets up the next book beautifully

I received a copy of the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Aless was raised by an over protective and slightly overbearing mother, but after graduating high school she gets to go off (mostly) on her own to become a doctor and do something with her life. Just don't go near the sea, her mother begged, and not listening to that plea sets her on a path she cannot escape.

Growing up I loved mythology in a lot of forms, but in my older years I seem to have forgotten a lot of it. Reading this was so much fun because I got to remind myself of why it was so interesting to begin with. Greek mythology is messy and thus this book is messy but in the fun way. I feel like if you're not a fan of the messiness of Greek mythology then you are definitely not going to be having a good time here.

It takes a little bit for the book to pick up, but once it does it hits the ground running and it doesn't really stop. I enjoy a good fast-paced book that keeps you on your toes and this one does. Granted my imagination was trying to figure everything out and was reading between the very obvious lines. Which is another thing I love when it happens.

Aless is in a constant battle with herself as she discovers things about herself she didn't know she forgot. The struggle of trying to get home with being drawn to two different (and equally sexy) men in the lost city of Atlantis is a constant theme. We follow as she learns more and more about herself and the past that was taken and hidden from her while she discovers that the Gods she never believed in are very much real. Her boys, Triton and Dion, one the king with the looks of a rockstar and the other his first sentinel who seems to go back and forth on his own about how he feels about her. It's easy to fall in love with Triton but impossible to stop thinking of Dion. The constant bouncing made it interesting, kept me guessing. Like obviously she wants Dion but maybe Triton is going to win her over. But she's totally using Triton to get to Dion, but then she really seems to be falling for him. Delicious.

It is the start of a series and it is a very good start. I am ready to see where this goes. Does the triangle continue or do we move past that? Is the character I am dubbing Skywalker for spoilers purpose going to die a horrible death because I hate their guts and hope they get put on an intestinal crank (one can only hope)? Can't wait to find out.

[firebreathingb1tchqueen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have always adored retellings of myths and was instantly intrigued by this story of Medusa returned whole by her sister Theo to the modern world. Awakened and living as a newly accepted medical student at the University of Apollo, Aless, unknowing of her previous identity as Medusa, finds herself suddenly swept into the realm of gods and monsters! As Aless tried to survive her newfound reality as a seeming pawn in the games of the gods, she slowly unraveled her identity and her fate as prophesied by Apollo.
I loved being pulled along in the ever changing tides of this story as our heroine was forced to adapt in any way necessary to protect the innocents of the seas and to keep her loved ones safe. While I was able to guess certain twists, others kept me riveted as I tried to absorb this tale as quickly as possible. I enjoyed Medusa’s constant dedication to protecting those around her and cannot wait to see her story continued in book 2, Breaking Fate!

[Jennifer Trawick · Rating 4 out of 5]

I absolutely love Greek mythology! Reading about gods & goddesses & their lore is intriguing to me. S.M. McCoy definitely did her research when writing this book! I both liked & disliked the FMC Alessandra aka Medusa. She was snarky & wouldn't take anyone's crap, but at the same time she was so kind....especially considering she is Medusa. Aless is torn between Triton, King of Atlantis & his first sentinel Dion. Both are incredibly good looking & are concerned for her safety, but for totally different reasons. Aless doesn't know who to trust because everyone has their own secret agenda. As the story progresses Aless grows into her power & becomes Medusa to the fullest. The question is though, will her power be used for the good of Atlantis or for it's destruction? I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. The world building was amazing, the way Atlantis was described was perfect! The characters were well thought out, some morally grey to their core, but so hard to dislike. I look forward to reading the next book in this series. I'm eager to see how Medusa uses her power & to see if she can change her story & get a HEA!!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Mandi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've read a few books about Medusa, and I have to admit, I would love to see more. What a great, misunderstood character from mythology.

McCoy's take on Medusa was unlike anything I'd seen before. I loved that Aless had no memory of the past and that she learned about herself as we did.

Atlantis was a magical setting.

There were a few confusing parts of the book and some issues with past and present tense, but all in all, it was a great read.

[Tammy D · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a very enjoyable read. I love the characters and the different twist on this Greek Mythology story. I am really looking forward to more of this series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Rebel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantasy fans, mythology fans, and fans of entertaining protagonists will find a lot to love. Battles against the gods with twists and turns. It's a great reimagining of Greek Mythology.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[tburbr · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a great start to a new series. The character work and story line were well written and this was an interesting take on Greek mythology. I look forward to seeing what they author has in store for us next.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Angel Roo · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fun retelling of a Greek myth. Medusa, told from her point of view.

I really enjoyed this story. I thought Aless was just such a great character!

Can't wait to find out what happens next!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[S · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great story, I have heard many stories speaking of Medusa being a Goddess and misunderstood. This is such a beautiful story hence why I finished in a short amount of time. Can’t wait to read the next.

[Barbara A. · Rating 5 out of 5]

A retelling of the Greek myth of Medusa is so good I wanted to slap anybody who interrupted my reading time. Dion is not who he says he is. Triton is actually a big softie who just wants a wife he can love & doesn’t cheat on him. Medusa wants to go back to land and continue in medical school. Hades wants…who knows what Hades except to control just about everyone.

It doesn’t matter if you are a scholar of Greek Mythology or you have not even heard of Medusa or Atlantis this book is a wonderful, convoluted, myth retold that you will enjoy.

[KaleDragon · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was quite a pleasant read, with quite a few twists and turns. So many unexpected things, I can't wait to read the next book.

[Dani A · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great read! I am so intrigued by Greek mythology and Medusa is one of my favorites. The characters are relatable and the world building is great! This book had me wanting more. Great work.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Christinaraven · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this retelling of a greek myth but from Medusa's side. It was fun and entertaining and I enjoyed the twists. And really rethought the Medusa story by the end. Good characters, interesting and fun scenes made the story a good read. I laughed and groaned but was entertained.

[Megan Mclellan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Now this is a masterclass in a mythological retelling! The world building,the character development, immersive and engaging story telling? Chefs kiss across the board! This book was absolute perfection to me! This,this is how a retelling is done!!