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Lives of Legends

A Quest for Destiny: A Perseus and Andromeda Retelling

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She's the enemy princess.
He's a nobody with god-like powers and a destiny he doesn't believe in.
Can he escape his destiny, or is his life determined by a Power he hates?

When Andromeda, princess of the Jade Isles speaks out against the dragon her people worship, the dragon demands her as a sacrifice. Chained to a rock, Andromeda expects immediate death until a man with the powers of Poseidon saves her and claims he can establish peace between their peoples.

Raised as an abandoned orphan in a war-torn country, Casimir hates the people of the Jade Isles who battled against his coastal city. Forced to accept a quest to negotiate peace, he arrives on the island to discover his enemies have tried to sacrifice their own princess.

Determined to infiltrate the Jade court, Casimir poses as the son of Poseidon, the heir of the sea, and must now navigate the intrigues of court before his lie is discovered. But as he comes to know this mysterious princess, he realizes that she understands a Power far beyond his understanding, a Power that holds the key to his past and that will determine his destiny.

And as the dragon's dark magic grows over the island, Casimir and Andromeda must find where the real danger lurks before it consumes them all.

"A Quest for Destiny," a retelling of Perseus and Andromeda, is a standalone no-spice novella, complete with tropes like chosen one, hidden identity and enemies to lovers. It is part of the "Loves of Legends" series, a collection of eight retellings of Greek myths where the tragedies become happily ever afters. Each book is written by a different author so it can be enjoyed in any order. The proceeds from this series are donated to the Human Coalition to provide for mothers facing crisis pregnancies.

224 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 22, 2025

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38 people want to read

About the author

Verity Sandahl

4 books15 followers

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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
Profile Image for Chloe.
76 reviews9 followers
October 12, 2025
Rating: ⭐️3.75

This was quite a unique book! The world-building was fascinating, with the different kingdoms featuring different gifts. Casimir and Andromeda were relatable characters, but I felt like their development and relationship were rushed. I wished we had more time to get to know their backgrounds and moments together; I felt like their relationship was narrated, but not shown to us.

The Christian faith elements were strong, pointing to God’s presence, especially potent in the midst of trial. The massive impact hate can have on a person’s life, soul, and perspective was adeptly shown through Casimir and King Asirius’s struggles/reactions. I was uncomfortable with the mixing of Greek gods and the One True God…I feel like the Christian elements would have been more impactful/touching if the kingdom’s powers were gifts from God and didn’t incorporate the “lesser gods”, which, in my opinion, weren’t needed or important for the story.

However, this was a creative retelling of Perseus and Andromeda, and was a quick enjoyable read. The book dealt with common, complex feelings and how our reaction to the hate, bitterness, and short-sightedness can be to our benefit if we approach it with faith in God, or if we rely on ourselves/reasoning, it leads to our downfall—physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

2 reviews1 follower
August 11, 2025
Overall: I really enjoyed Verity Sandahl's previous books and was not disappointed by this one. I enjoy a good novella that I can finish in one sitting (this book took me three sittings because I was interrupted by responsibilities). This was one of those stories that I couldn't rest til I finished it (I was up past midnight last night finishing it). I appreciate how faith is always at the center of Verity Sandahl's books.

Writing: As mentioned above, this was one of those stories I didn't want to put down! However, the ending did feel a little rushed, but that might have just been because it's a novella.

Characters: For starters, I always love coming back to characters I've come to know from previous books. It was so much fun to see Casimir and others (I won't spoil who) from The Last Hope. I enjoyed how human the characters felt. They act like real people; their past experiences and emotions have a huge impact on the way they act and respond. I loved seeing Casimir grow.

Plot: The plot was very good. It was intriguing, made sense for the characters, and not cliche. Some of the twists were easy to see coming, but there was one twist at the end that surprised me. The plot felt very probable.

Faith: As always, I enjoyed the importance of faith in this author's books! However, I had mixed feelings. Because it is a retelling of a Greek legend, the Greek gods were a part of it. In the story, Zeus, Poseidon, Aphrodite, and the other Greek gods were lesser powers set up by the One Father (representative of God in this world). I understand why it was done this way, considering the story, but it doesn't sit quite right with me. That being said, the Greek gods weren't an important part of the story (just mentioned here and there) until the end. One of my favorite things about this books was how it stressed that singing songs to God is a powerful way to fight against evil, especially evil impacting our hearts.

Romance: Ok, so this romance wasn't my favorite for a couple of reasons. It was a little too fast for me. I didn't like how fast they fell completely in love, especially because it seemed as though the main reason Casimir was attracted to Andromeda was because she is beautiful. Also, the romance did make me a little uncomfortable in places. It was clean and not at all graphic, but it was very passionate. Especially one scene where they are alone in the dark and Casimir thinks about how much he wants to be near her and kiss her (again not graphic). It just made me a little uncomfortable. For that reason, I wouldn't recommend this book for girls under 16. I would a preferred it if they kinda became more of friends and then there was a hint of love at the end.

Concerns: There are really only two concerns with this book. One, I really didn't like that there was both the One Father, who is allegorical of God from the Bible, and also Greek gods; it just does not sit right with me. And two, as shown in the above section, the romance made me a little uncomfortable.

Conclusion: I devoured this novella. It was fantastic! However, because of the Greek gods and the One Father (representative of God) both playing a part (and a little bit because the romance wasn't my favorite), I only gave this book 4 stars.

Note: This story takes place in the same world as and is connected to characters from The Last Hope. The stories may be enjoyed best read together, but they can definitely be read as stand-alone stories.

I received an ARC of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Her Legit Library.
6 reviews3 followers
November 15, 2025
⭐️ 3.5 stars from me!

I am so grateful to have received A Quest for Destiny by Verity Sandahl as an eARC! I absolutely loved the plot, which was filled with exciting twists and turns along the way. There were so many great themes that were central to the story, allowing the author’s values and beautiful character to shine through in her writing. Filled with themes of faith, redemption, forgiveness, hope, and love, A Quest for Destiny reminds readers of the never-ending love God has for them and that He will faithfully pursue His children, even when they fail to pursue Him.

Admittedly, there were a few times when I felt a bit confused or lost, but I think that is partially because this was the only book I had read in this set, so all things considered, the author did a good job of catching me up. I also encountered several spelling and grammatical errors that made the story difficult to read, which is why my rating is not higher. However, these elements did not take away from the powerful message that our sovereign God has a good and perfect plan for each of our lives that has been laid out for us since the beginning of time. Verity Sandahl did an amazing job reminding me of that, and I am so grateful that she incorporated that into her book!

The romance aspect was clean and sweet, but it wasn’t the entire plot, which I appreciated. If you enjoy retellings of Greek mythology filled with sea monsters, magical powers, fight scenes, and rival kingdoms, A Quest for Destiny is for you!

I received this book as an ARC, and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Jen.
174 reviews6 followers
August 22, 2025
Oh my word! I loved this book! It was a riveting tale of finding one’s destiny. This books holds elements of the Greek myth of Perseus and Andromeda and is completely its own unique tale. Furthermore, I love how Verity weaved Christian faith throughout the story. It was a brilliant representation of trusting the will of God during trails. Casimir was one of my favorite side characters in A Last Hope and I am so glad he got his own story. He was a relatable character as he struggled with accepting his destiny and trusting the One Father. I loved Andromeda’s faith and endurance when faced with evil. This was a fantastic tale of faith and destiny.

I volunteered to read an ARC copy of the book and all thoughts are my own.
Profile Image for Jes Drew.
Author 87 books526 followers
September 23, 2025
The myth of Perseus and Andromeda doesn't get enough love despite being one of the few Greek myths with a happily ever after. This is an atmospheric retelling that remains very close to the source material in a fresh way. More than that, though, it is an epic tale of good vs. evil, the price of pride, and the power of beauty.

Andromeda and Casimir- from A Last Hope- have wonderful chemistry and have a compelling dynamic. She is no mere damsel in distress- she is a princess who refuses to bow to a false god no matter the cost and whose faith shines in the darkness. This is a story that will linger in my thoughts for a long time.

If you love beautiful reimaginings of Greek myths, be sure to add this jewel to your collection!
Profile Image for Courtney Ranger.
Author 3 books67 followers
October 4, 2025
Again, Verity has proven herself as a master storyteller. Her characters were phenomenally written, and they were gloriously complex. The story was exciting and fast paced, keeping my interest piqued. I loved how Verity wrote the themes into this book; it’s a powerful reminder to trust in God.

Overall, this book was a beautiful story readers will fall in love with!!!
Profile Image for Ashlyn Sanders.
100 reviews3 followers
August 20, 2025
Not only is this a fantastic retelling, but there is a story of real faith in the Lord even in fantasy. I loved this reimagining with a unique twist! Every page is filled with faith and an adventure that is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat!
Thank you for the arc!
394 reviews55 followers
August 10, 2025
What a lovely, inspiring novella, playing on the tale of Perseus and Andromeda from Greek mythology. I was actually unfamiliar with this tale so had to read up a little about it beforehand, and I'll be honest I did get a little mixed up with this and Percy Jackson (which is stupid for obvious reasons), briefly thinking that Percy Jackson was meant to be Perseus. I guess it wasn't helped by the fact that the tale mentioned Perseus killing Medusa and using her head which Percy does in the films, and the fact that in this book "Perseus" has water powers and is believed to therefore be a son of Poseidon like Percy Jackson is. But anyway, having learnt a bit about the story I loved being able to spot the parallels and differences between the original and this story. A lot of the names and vital elements being kept the same, with Perseus's name sort of as an exception. Having been adopted by parents of a different region he's grown up as Casimir.
I found the story interesting and gripping, with Casimir not knowing who to trust and who the real enemies are, and Andromeda trying to fight the evil corrupting her country. Her strength in the face of everything they were throwing at her and her ability to believe that everything would work out as it should do was inspiring.
I loved the world that Verity built, with the different regions, how their powers worked and their warring backstories. This was my first book by Verity Sandahl and there were talks about things that happened in Casimir's past, a very fleshed out past for a novella, which was explained when I discovered at the end that he must have featured in another book in the past following a couple of the other characters mentioned. So I'd love to read that too and the one that was set up in the epilogue at the end because I really enjoyed this one and this world deserves more stories for sure.
Profile Image for Rosalyn Nightshade.
151 reviews10 followers
September 21, 2025
I honestly can't believe I waited so long to read this book! Casimir was such an intriguing character from A Last Hope and I am so excited that I was finally able to read his story! His childhood, his mistaken beliefs, and his feelings of abandonment and not knowing his origins really appealed to me and made me feel really sad and sorry for him. But then, he met Andromeda. Wow! Andromeda is honestly one of the best characters I have ever read. She is so innocent and gentle and kind but she is also strong because she knows and trusts in the power of her God. I love how her faith never wavers, even throughout the darkest trials. Even after she lost her father, under the dragon's oppression, and even when her own council sentenced her to death. She knew that she wasn't alone and I love how she was a light that guided Casimir and everyone else and showed the loving power of the One. The battle at the end was incredible and kept me at the edge of my seat as Casimir fought the sea serpent. And then discovering who King Acrismius was and Casimir's true heritage...😍!
And then, of course, this book was made even better when Prince Thomis came! He is absolutely 100% my favourite character and I'm so glad that we got to see more of him in this book! I enjoyed seeing him thrive as the "perfect prince" and I loved getting to know more about what his powers are! I can't wait for his story next as well as other stories set in this world!
121 reviews12 followers
September 30, 2025
🐉REVIEW🐉
Let me start by saying that I’ve only ever read one other Perseus and Andromeda retelling. I know the basics of the tale but I’m not exceptionally well versed. That being said, A Quest for Destiny is an intriguing and faith-filled interpretation. The entire book is a fight between goodness and darkness. It handles some tough topics but they are done well.

The two main characters are polar opposites in some ways but they mesh well together. Casimir is filled with such rage but I loved that he wanted to be a better person. Andromeda is a sweet and strong, her faith pulling her to do what is right, no matter the consequences.

The villain in this story was both expected AND unexpected. There was a plot twist that threw me for a bit of a loop (that could just be me though. I may need to go check out the original tale). Also, I’m interested in how the minor “gods” work when there is a One Creator. That part confused me a bit. Sandahl has another book in the same universe, so I might just be missing some information. Overall, I was pleasantly surprised by this lovely story.

Thank you to Verity Sandahl for an ARC of A Quest for Destiny! All opinions are my own.

No-Spice Rating: light kissing
Language: Clean with the exception of $lut from a villainous character. It is spoken of a past character.
Faith Elements: ✝️ Christian
Profile Image for The Naptime Library.
46 reviews3 followers
August 10, 2025
Stars: 3.75

A Quest for Destiny by Verity Sandahl is a retelling of Perseus and Andromeda. It is set in the same world as Verity’s novel, A Last Hope, which I read last year and liked. It was fun to return to that world and some familiar characters. It can be read as a stand-alone, but I like having read both books to see the connections. It is told via dual points of view that shift back and forth quickly. Casimir is a powerful leader but filled with hatred and a desire for vengeance. Andromeda is full of faith and light. This is a quick read, and the plot moves quickly, too. If I kept track correctly, the story only covers 2 days. I don’t have a problem suspending belief with the quickness of the timeline of events, falling in love, etc. – I am reading fantasy after all. While this is a retelling of a Greek myth, there are heavy Christian faith themes. I really like how Verity uses fantasy to point toward the Gospel truths of a loving Father and the power of faith. As stated, the enemies to lovers’ romance is no-spice with additional tropes of hidden identity and chosen one.

I received an advance review copy from the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for DJWman.
181 reviews3 followers
August 22, 2025
Verity Sandahl has crafted another unforgettable story. A Quest for Destiny is the kind of book that pulls you in from the very first page and won’t let you go until the end. I read it all in one day, and for me, it might even be my favourite of her works so far.

This novella takes the myth of Perseus and Andromeda and breathes fresh life into it, weaving in themes of courage, identity, and faith. Andromeda, the princess willing to speak out against the dragon her people worship, embodies a brave faith that refuses to bow to false gods and shows the courage to stand for what is right despite the consequences. Casimir, the orphan who hides behind a false identity, wrestles with his past, his doubts, and the reality of a Power greater than himself—a Power he doesn’t understand, but one that ultimately holds his true destiny.

Like Verity’s previous works, this story shines a clear light on the futility of false gods and the destructive power of lies. But even more, it shows the strength and hope that come from living with conviction, even when surrounded by darkness.

I loved how human the characters felt. Their struggles, fears, and past wounds shaped every decision, making them feel real and relatable. It was also a joy to revisit familiar faces like Casimir from The Last Hope and to see how his journey continues here. Andromeda’s kindness and quiet strength were especially inspiring, showing how faith and courage can stand firm even when the cost is high.

The worldbuilding was rich and intriguing—the warring histories of the regions, the threat of the dragon, and the political tensions in the Jade court all added layers of depth without ever overshadowing the heart of the story.

A Quest for Destiny is both a gripping retelling and a moving reminder of what makes Verity Sandahl’s books so special: powerful storytelling, characters that stay with you, and themes that linger long after the last page is turned.
Profile Image for Charissa James.
423 reviews
September 15, 2025
This was an interesting story. When I heard that this book is a retelling of a Greek myth, I was intrigued since I don't come across many of those in my reading. Granted, I really don't know any Greek myths so I couldn't tell you how this story differs from that of the original tale of Perseus and Andromeda. That didn't affect my enjoyment of this retelling, though. However, I was a little disappointed in the romance. It seemed like the author got caught up in the other aspects of the plot and was like "oh, wait, my characters need to kiss!" The MCs didn't really have any chemistry. I would've liked to see some light touches and desire in addition to the kissing. I did really enjoy the allegory in this story. I would read more books by this author just for the encouraging faith messages she weaves in. This one was about finding your identity in God rather than in your own abilities. I loved seeing Casimir learn that he couldn't solve the problem on his own but that he could trust "a Power" to help him.

Thanks to the author for providing me with an ARC. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
1 review
August 9, 2025
The Quest for Destiny is a story involving characters from The Last Hope. I always enjoy books that bring in characters from previous stories. Casimir was heartbroken when Arianna married Marc in The Last Hope. Casimir also has a special gift allowing him to control water. He hopes to use this gift not only to save people but to destroy Ecoptia, a nation that killed his parents. Casimir is harboring deep vengeance and cannot wait to enact it. But soon he learns that vengeance is not the answer and the answer will come from a Princess who follows the one true Father. But there are more lessons to learn, some from his enemies and some from a dragon in the ocean that no one can seem to destroy. This was a wonderful story of redemption, adventure, and love. Of course, there is the wonderful happily ever after. If you loved The Last Hope you will love Quest for Destiny. I can't wait until the next book comes out.
Profile Image for Nicole Wright.
101 reviews1 follower
August 28, 2025
Andromeda is a princess of the Jade Isles, she has been sentenced to death for speaking out against the dragon that her people worship. She is ready to meet her death when a man with the powers of Poseidon saves her. He’s come to make peace between their peoples.

I loved the chemistry between Andromeda and Casimir, they have an easy, almost simple reaction to each other. This was an enjoyable story. While it is a Greek myth retelling it is steeped in Christian faith themes and I loved seeing it incorporated.

This is the third book in the Lives of Legends series where proceeds go to HumanCoaltion.org to help vulnerable families and give them help and options during crisis pregnancies.
2 reviews1 follower
August 23, 2025
Our destiny is it fixed or can the choices we make change our fate? This is the question Casimir and Andromeda have to wrestle with in this retelling of “Legend of Perseus and Andromeda.” In this adventure, there are unseen forces that move and challenge the destiny’s of Casimir and Andromeda. The challenge given to Casimir is “It is because your position is of such importance much has been needed to prepare you.” This book challenges you to consider what to do if you are “facing a destiny you do not want.” Through the winds and across the sea this adventure will carry you mired in adventure until the end. Join Casimir and Andromeda in “A Quest for Destiny.”
1,910 reviews18 followers
September 15, 2025
The author did a really good job of retelling this legend with a Christian allegory twist. The characters are relatable and flawed, the action is thrilling (even with a little boy being a brat in the background), the romance feels real (with the main characters going hot and cold with their emotions). The only disconnect is when I realized that Zeus was standing in for God - that just did not feel right. Otherwise, this is a sweet fantastical romance adventure which I wish I could give to my niece (who is too young for this).

I received an ARC from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Sara.
611 reviews26 followers
September 20, 2025
A Quest for Destiny by Verity Sandahl
A Perseus and Andromeda retelling. Andromeda and her people have been forced to serve a water serpent until a man with mysterious powers shows up. But can Casimir reach his full potential before destiny catches up to him? Very faith filled which is a bit unexpected for a Greek myth retelling. I would suggest reading A Last Hope first as the MMC in this one was also in that book. Interested in reading Thomis's story next! And I feel Brion may have more to come.
77 reviews3 followers
August 23, 2025
Verity has done it again! I LOVE this book and the way the author, Verity, intertwines such a wonderful retelling of two Greek myths while making them relatable and full of faith, hope, and love. Verity doesn’t shy aware from the hard situations life throws at her characters, but illustrates how they are able to overcome all obstacles with truth and grace that only comes from the one true Father. I am eternally grateful for such amazing stories, they are truly encouraging and inspiring. Book well written!
Profile Image for Abby.
180 reviews4 followers
September 15, 2025
Picture this! A vengeance seeking MMC that has god-like powers, a gorgeous and faith filled princess that is a prisoner in her own kingdom, an evil dragon that makes shady business deals, and a memorable happily ever after. That is what you have to look forward to in this no spice retelling of Perseus and Andromeda novella. I truly loved the unexpected plot twist and the enemies to lovers trope. I can’t wait to read more of Ms. Verity’s work!
231 reviews
August 24, 2025
When fear encroaches, you have a choice to either give into it or to fight against it.

I thoroughly enjoyed Sandahl's version of this myth. There is such power in faith and surrender, and she did a wonderful job of capturing it. I am also glad to hear that there are other stories set in this world because it certainly feels like there are more to explore.
36 reviews
September 2, 2025
Wow

I loved the book Quest for Destiny. I couldn't put it down. I was not surprised by who was involved in the evil plot with the dragon but HOW, WOW! I really enjoy stories I can't predict and can surprise me. Not only was the 'villains' plot a surprise but Casimirs story as well. Love a good clean read that also gives us hope.
Profile Image for Sadie.
107 reviews
September 5, 2025
This book is a beautiful blend of greek mythology and Christian themes. I love how the author intertwined those two things in such a poignant and moving way. The story was action packed, full of lines I want to highlight and remember and leaves you feeling buoyant and hopeful. I'm excited to read more of Verity's work :)
42 reviews
October 11, 2025
I love Greek myths, and I enjoy when fantasy takes a turn towards the allegorical and makes good, Christian points. So, this book was right up my alley.
The story and the points made are good, but the editing needs some work. This is a clean read. I received an ARC from the author. I was not required to write a review but chose to do so and the opinions stated are my own.
Profile Image for Danielle .
154 reviews60 followers
August 27, 2025
I really enjoyed this book! I haven't seen very many retellings of Andromeda's story and I thought this was a really interesting take on the story.

Overall it was really good. I liked the faith elements mixed in and enjoy that the author had a one true God over keeping the mythological gods as divine.



Overall I liked the characters. Andromeda was intelligent and cunning without being unlikable.

There is also a fair bit of action in this story even though it is a novella! Which makes it very fast paced.

I would recommend this story to those who enjoy mythology and like Christian themes in their book. This story is not heavy on the romance and is driven by solving the problem in the plot and having the characters grow as they work through obstacles.

Overall, a good read.

I received an ARC from the author. All thoughts are my own.
Profile Image for Courtnie ~ courtniemustreads.
253 reviews6 followers
August 29, 2025
I loved this story! It was exciting and action packed! I loved how the author was able to do a Greek retelling from a Christian perspective. It was a unique story and I enjoyed every minute of it. The romance was kisses only and I loved the theme of finding one’s identity. Overall, a great read!
Profile Image for funkelbunt.liest.
321 reviews5 followers
September 16, 2025
4,5 stars rounded to 5

A Quest for Destiny is the third novella in the Lives of Legends multiauthor series and an Andromeda and Perseus retelling.

Like I said in another review for one of the novellas I have next to no knowledge when it comes to Greek Mythology. While I did recognize the names of Andromeda and Perseus, I am not familiar with this specific myth. This didn’t impact my understanding of the retelling, but at the same time I can’t really say how close it was to the original.

I absolutely loved Casimir and felt for him in A Last Hope and I was so excited that he got his own story! He was so relatable and his faith journey was amazing.

While Verity’s worldbuilding is absolutely fantastic, what I admire the most in her books is how she weaves strong faith themes through her stories in such a beautiful way. It is such an important part of the character’s lives, their redemption arcs and how they overcome struggles.

Andromeda is so strong in her faith. She has a quiet but powerful strength, she shows love, kindness, resilience and forgiveness and is just a wonderful character.

And even though I loved both main characters, the reason why I removed half a star is the romance. It was not only way too fast for my taste, there is actually no reason for Casimir to fall in love with Andromeda other than that she is beautiful.

While I can’t say how original the story is in terms of turning a Greek myth into a new story, the plot kept me engaged and interested and I found some elements to be very unique.

A Quest for Destiny is a wonderful addition both to this multiauthor series but also to the world Verity created with the characters which we originally knew from A Last Hope (also a multiauthor series where the proceeds are donated).

“[The series] is a collection of eight retellings of Greek myths where the tragedies become happily ever afters. Each book is written by a different author so it can be enjoyed in any order. The proceeds from this series are donated to the Human Coalition to provide for mothers facing crisis pregnancies.”

* Thank you to the author for letting me read an advanced copy of this book. I leave this review voluntarily and the expressed opinions are my own.
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