What do you think?
Rate this book
Pasiphaë
Not yet published
Expected 1 Sep 26A queen. A mother. A monster. A throne built on blood.
Princess Pasiphae of Kolchis is sent to Knossos to secure the throne, but she soon finds herself entangled in a brutal power struggle. As the Mother cult demands blood and Minos seeks to overturn ancient rule, she fights to protect her children; Asterion, her gentle son marked as a monster, and Ariadne, the ambitious daughter who rejects her.
Betrayals, sacrifices, and shifting allegiances shape the kingdom’s fate. When Theseus arrives to claim his prize, Knossos falls, leaving Pasiphae to face the ghosts of all she has lost.
Princess Pasiphae of Kolchis is sent to Knossos to secure the throne, but she soon finds herself entangled in a brutal power struggle. As the Mother cult demands blood and Minos seeks to overturn ancient rule, she fights to protect her children; Asterion, her gentle son marked as a monster, and Ariadne, the ambitious daughter who rejects her.
Betrayals, sacrifices, and shifting allegiances shape the kingdom’s fate. When Theseus arrives to claim his prize, Knossos falls, leaving Pasiphae to face the ghosts of all she has lost.
- GenresMythologyRetellings
320 pages, Paperback
Expected publication September 1, 2026
4 people are currently reading
206 people want to read
About the author
Jane Dougherty
28 books48 followersJane Dougherty is a product of the Irish diaspora. She was brought up in Yorkshire and educated in Manchester and London before moving to France to work in the wine trade. She spent fourteen years in Paris where she married and had four children, studied Irish for a year and taught herself Italian. Next move was to Laon in Picardy, a medieval gem of a town set in beautiful countryside, where her fifth child was born. She now lives in Bordeaux with her family, a Spanish greyhound and a posse of cats.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Éditeur
Many thanks to The Book Social for giving me an early copy!
Trigger warnings: brief but clear scenes of SA, murder, animal death
Pasiphaë is a character I've been dying to see more of in myth retellings and I'm really glad she finally gets to tell her own story. I really enjoyed it!
I feel like there are two types of myth retellings, both that I love equally: the ones who embrace the fantastical elements of mythology, and the ones that attempt to give a historical version of mythological events. Pasiphaë is among the latter and I thought it worked very well, but if you're looking for gods and monsters, be aware that's not what you'll get here. I do hope someone does write the wacky version, if only for the curse Pasiphaë places on Minos (if you have no clue what I'm talking about, google "Pasiphaë curses Minos"; you're welcome). I liked this realistic version though and was really impressed with the author's research. I had to brush up on my knowledge of archaic minoan deities to keep up.
But while Dougherty embraced a more realistic version of the myth, all the key elements are still there: the great white bull, Asterion, Daedalus... But they're included in a way that makes sense for this story, and I enjoyed how different characters were introduced and their stories slowly woven together until the finale. I was especially intrigued by the inclusion of Crete (Kriti, here), as I feel like she's rarely featured. The biggest change to the myth is perhaps the identity of Pasiphaë's father, but the change made sense to me.
The myths as we know them are acknowledged in a way I found really clever: as rumours. I loved that because it really worked in the context of this book. What seems truer after all, a queen seducing a bull, or a queen's enemies spreading the rumour that she seduced a bull to cause her harm? In the case of Medea, who is also present in this book, it also added complexity: are they just rumours as she claims or is she lying to protect herself?
That complexity is present everywhere: it's not all evil men and badass women, and that was so refreshing. Besides, the threat of Minos looming even before he appeared in person created a sense of foreboding and the alternating POVs getting shorter and shorter towards the end gave an impression of urgency and stress that fit the story brilliantly.
The ending had me crying my eyes out. I do love a tragic ending. I hope everyone enjoys it as much as I did!
Trigger warnings: brief but clear scenes of SA, murder, animal death
Pasiphaë is a character I've been dying to see more of in myth retellings and I'm really glad she finally gets to tell her own story. I really enjoyed it!
I feel like there are two types of myth retellings, both that I love equally: the ones who embrace the fantastical elements of mythology, and the ones that attempt to give a historical version of mythological events. Pasiphaë is among the latter and I thought it worked very well, but if you're looking for gods and monsters, be aware that's not what you'll get here. I do hope someone does write the wacky version, if only for the curse Pasiphaë places on Minos (if you have no clue what I'm talking about, google "Pasiphaë curses Minos"; you're welcome). I liked this realistic version though and was really impressed with the author's research. I had to brush up on my knowledge of archaic minoan deities to keep up.
But while Dougherty embraced a more realistic version of the myth, all the key elements are still there: the great white bull, Asterion, Daedalus... But they're included in a way that makes sense for this story, and I enjoyed how different characters were introduced and their stories slowly woven together until the finale. I was especially intrigued by the inclusion of Crete (Kriti, here), as I feel like she's rarely featured. The biggest change to the myth is perhaps the identity of Pasiphaë's father, but the change made sense to me.
The myths as we know them are acknowledged in a way I found really clever: as rumours. I loved that because it really worked in the context of this book. What seems truer after all, a queen seducing a bull, or a queen's enemies spreading the rumour that she seduced a bull to cause her harm? In the case of Medea, who is also present in this book, it also added complexity: are they just rumours as she claims or is she lying to protect herself?
That complexity is present everywhere: it's not all evil men and badass women, and that was so refreshing. Besides, the threat of Minos looming even before he appeared in person created a sense of foreboding and the alternating POVs getting shorter and shorter towards the end gave an impression of urgency and stress that fit the story brilliantly.
The ending had me crying my eyes out. I do love a tragic ending. I hope everyone enjoys it as much as I did!
February 9, 2026
It’s been a while since I read a story about Greek mythology but this one reminded me just how much I love them.
Pasiphae was the daughter of the sun god, Helios, a Princess of Kolchis and sister of Circe. She married Minos, and became the Queen of Crete. This story is a reimagining of Pasiphae’s story so while many characters are the same, the story is slightly different to the one which has been passed down over the years.
I was totally captivated by this tale of an ancient, mythological, Greek world ruled by the ‘Mistresses’ who deemed that only a Queen should rule. These women were all powerful…until a man aspired to rule instead.
I was completely immersed in this story of a 15 year old girl who left her home to marry a man, old enough to be her father, in accordance to the wishes of the ‘Mistresses’. Pasiphae has no doubt that this is her destiny; and her belief in herself and the path she must tread is just so fascinating to read about.
I adored the descriptions of the stunning landscapes and buildings, and felt as though I was there staring down at the immensity and beauty of the Barley Court, as the colourful masses gathered for sheer entertainment.
I’m always intrigued by civilisations who believed in omens; thinking that thunder meant the gods had been angered and a good harvest was a sign that the gods were happy with their rituals. I’m not as keen reading about the sacrifices which were made, but it sheds light on the beliefs and customs of the peoples of that era.
This is a richly detailed narrative which had me engrossed from beginning to end, and I can’t recommend it enough.
I was sent an ARC by the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Pasiphae was the daughter of the sun god, Helios, a Princess of Kolchis and sister of Circe. She married Minos, and became the Queen of Crete. This story is a reimagining of Pasiphae’s story so while many characters are the same, the story is slightly different to the one which has been passed down over the years.
I was totally captivated by this tale of an ancient, mythological, Greek world ruled by the ‘Mistresses’ who deemed that only a Queen should rule. These women were all powerful…until a man aspired to rule instead.
I was completely immersed in this story of a 15 year old girl who left her home to marry a man, old enough to be her father, in accordance to the wishes of the ‘Mistresses’. Pasiphae has no doubt that this is her destiny; and her belief in herself and the path she must tread is just so fascinating to read about.
I adored the descriptions of the stunning landscapes and buildings, and felt as though I was there staring down at the immensity and beauty of the Barley Court, as the colourful masses gathered for sheer entertainment.
I’m always intrigued by civilisations who believed in omens; thinking that thunder meant the gods had been angered and a good harvest was a sign that the gods were happy with their rituals. I’m not as keen reading about the sacrifices which were made, but it sheds light on the beliefs and customs of the peoples of that era.
This is a richly detailed narrative which had me engrossed from beginning to end, and I can’t recommend it enough.
I was sent an ARC by the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This is for the readers who are tired of myths where women are the warning and want stories where they are the voice.
I found it really hard to put into words how this book made me feel, it was a very moving read, so perhaps Natalie Haynes said it best 'And if history has taught us anything, it is that women making a noise – whether speaking or shouting – tend to be viewed as intrinsically disruptive' most fitting for this incredible feminist retelling of a woman wronged by myth.
Paisphae tells the story of the famous Greek Minotaur myth from the perspective of his mother, Pasiphaë and centres her in the story for the first time. Passion, betrayal, and divine legacy collide in this dramatic reimagining of a story long overshadowed by male driven narratives.
To put it simply, this is an emotionally charged exploration of power, motherhood, and the stories history chooses to tell, and those it condemns as monstrous.
Dougherty’s tone and imagery is metaphorical, raw and unflinching and she beautifully brings to light the story of Pasiphaë, the mother of the Minotaur, shamed and reduced to scandal and is exactly the kind of figure modern readers want to see reclaimed especially in a society that is becoming more and more patriarchal.
If you enjoyed Circe, Clytemnestra or The Silence of the Girls, this book needs to be on your tbr.
I found it really hard to put into words how this book made me feel, it was a very moving read, so perhaps Natalie Haynes said it best 'And if history has taught us anything, it is that women making a noise – whether speaking or shouting – tend to be viewed as intrinsically disruptive' most fitting for this incredible feminist retelling of a woman wronged by myth.
Paisphae tells the story of the famous Greek Minotaur myth from the perspective of his mother, Pasiphaë and centres her in the story for the first time. Passion, betrayal, and divine legacy collide in this dramatic reimagining of a story long overshadowed by male driven narratives.
To put it simply, this is an emotionally charged exploration of power, motherhood, and the stories history chooses to tell, and those it condemns as monstrous.
Dougherty’s tone and imagery is metaphorical, raw and unflinching and she beautifully brings to light the story of Pasiphaë, the mother of the Minotaur, shamed and reduced to scandal and is exactly the kind of figure modern readers want to see reclaimed especially in a society that is becoming more and more patriarchal.
If you enjoyed Circe, Clytemnestra or The Silence of the Girls, this book needs to be on your tbr.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Think you know the story of Theseus and the Minotaur? Think again.
In Pasiphae, Dougherty reimagines the tale of monsters and heroes, focusing instead on mothers and priestesses. It tells the story of Pasiphae, the woman behind the famous Minotaur myth.
The strength of this book lies in its female lens, which explores the roles women held in the Ancient Bronze Age and the real cost of power on their families and identities. Pasiphae’s narrative is swept up into a changing world of ancient cults, political rivalry, and the hunger of men, forming the basis of a myth where there are no heroes, and the monster is not what it seems.
The narrative is rich in descriptions, vividly recreating the majestic Palace of Knossos and its haunting, deeper chambers. If you’ve visited Greece, you’ll recognise the scent of thyme and the blue skies of Pasiphae’s world. At times, these descriptions can be overwhelming, but they effectively transport the reader to this Aegean island.
Pasiphae turns a myth we think we know into something original, human and with a powerful female focus.
Thanks to FMC Associates for providing the review copy.
In Pasiphae, Dougherty reimagines the tale of monsters and heroes, focusing instead on mothers and priestesses. It tells the story of Pasiphae, the woman behind the famous Minotaur myth.
The strength of this book lies in its female lens, which explores the roles women held in the Ancient Bronze Age and the real cost of power on their families and identities. Pasiphae’s narrative is swept up into a changing world of ancient cults, political rivalry, and the hunger of men, forming the basis of a myth where there are no heroes, and the monster is not what it seems.
The narrative is rich in descriptions, vividly recreating the majestic Palace of Knossos and its haunting, deeper chambers. If you’ve visited Greece, you’ll recognise the scent of thyme and the blue skies of Pasiphae’s world. At times, these descriptions can be overwhelming, but they effectively transport the reader to this Aegean island.
Pasiphae turns a myth we think we know into something original, human and with a powerful female focus.
Thanks to FMC Associates for providing the review copy.
Review of advance copy
4.5*
Thank you @thebooksocial for sending me an early copy of this book.
Pasiphae is a reimagining of the story of the Queen of Crete before Theseus and the myth of the Minotaur replaced her historical reality. We follow Pasiphae from childhood, watching as her and her family fight for the continuation of the reign of Queens and Priestesses. But after Pasiphae is sent to Knossos to secure the throne, she soon finds herself in a brutal power struggle with Minos, who seeks to overthrow ancient matriarchal customs and gain the power of the crown for himself.
This is a story unlike any other reimagining of this story, with numerous changes to the 'facts' we often think we know. Whilst I usually don’t like re-imaginings that stray too far from the original source materials, I really loved this book. Rather than being focused on the role and rule of the Gods and Goddesses, this story is profoundly human. It is about human decisions, human cost and consequences. We are finally able to learn about Pasiphae as a young girl, a neglected daughter and sister, a wife, a mother, and someone deeply afraid of the consequences of the threat to the very fabric of her beliefs about leadership, ruling and religion. I definitely felt like I actually got to know Pasiphae, rather than her simply being ‘mother of a monster’.
Pasiphae’s portrayal as a fierce mother, desperate to protect her children at all costs, was particularly moving. I also loved that Asterion was shown to be a gentle child who never deserved the label of a monster, as opposed to being simply the ‘Minotaur’, whilst Ariadne is portrayed as an ambitious daughter who turns away from her mother after witnessing her public loss of power.
I also liked that we get to see snippets of Kriti and the barbaric religious practices she is forced to partake in - if anything, I would have liked to have seen more about her character, largely because she is so often forgotten.
This was a story that felt easy to get swept up in, that was engaging and fast-paced whilst being emotional and profound. It is gritty and dark and endlessly clever. I would highly recommend this book.
Thank you @thebooksocial for sending me an early copy of this book.
Pasiphae is a reimagining of the story of the Queen of Crete before Theseus and the myth of the Minotaur replaced her historical reality. We follow Pasiphae from childhood, watching as her and her family fight for the continuation of the reign of Queens and Priestesses. But after Pasiphae is sent to Knossos to secure the throne, she soon finds herself in a brutal power struggle with Minos, who seeks to overthrow ancient matriarchal customs and gain the power of the crown for himself.
This is a story unlike any other reimagining of this story, with numerous changes to the 'facts' we often think we know. Whilst I usually don’t like re-imaginings that stray too far from the original source materials, I really loved this book. Rather than being focused on the role and rule of the Gods and Goddesses, this story is profoundly human. It is about human decisions, human cost and consequences. We are finally able to learn about Pasiphae as a young girl, a neglected daughter and sister, a wife, a mother, and someone deeply afraid of the consequences of the threat to the very fabric of her beliefs about leadership, ruling and religion. I definitely felt like I actually got to know Pasiphae, rather than her simply being ‘mother of a monster’.
Pasiphae’s portrayal as a fierce mother, desperate to protect her children at all costs, was particularly moving. I also loved that Asterion was shown to be a gentle child who never deserved the label of a monster, as opposed to being simply the ‘Minotaur’, whilst Ariadne is portrayed as an ambitious daughter who turns away from her mother after witnessing her public loss of power.
I also liked that we get to see snippets of Kriti and the barbaric religious practices she is forced to partake in - if anything, I would have liked to have seen more about her character, largely because she is so often forgotten.
This was a story that felt easy to get swept up in, that was engaging and fast-paced whilst being emotional and profound. It is gritty and dark and endlessly clever. I would highly recommend this book.
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews