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Flames of Olympos #2
The Mortal Coil: Medousa & Perseus
Medousa is Vengeance. Medousa is the Bane of Men.Marble statues appear on the streets where the gorgon hunts down men who would prey on women. If the sons of man will not yield respect, Medousa will teach them to fear.Perseus is the Destroyer. Perseus is the Golden Son.The mercenary son of Zeus seeks no help from his absent sire. He would make his own reputation, without kneeling to beg favor from Olympos.When a tyrant king demands Perseus bring back the head of the gorgon Medousa, the price of failure becomes more than his reputation. More than he can ever hope to bear.Medousa is a daughter of the old gods, fast and sleek and terrible. Against such strength and cunning, what hope could the warrior have? What weapon could strike out faster than the curse of the stone, should Perseus meet her eye?His arrogance appalls her. How dare this son of Olympos set foot on the gorgon’s island?Another hero, come to collect a trophy? Medousa would pitch his stone carcass over the edge of a cliff. But would he learn anything? No.The Bane of Men would have him cower and tremble. She would have him crawl and beg.Medousa will seal this hero’s fate.But first … she will break him.The Mortal Coil is a viper's nest of cruelty, vengeance, and redemption. Mortals avoid the island of the gorgones—like this dark tale, it is no place for the faint of heart. Step foot ashore, but danger lives here. And she does not like trespassers. Other titles in the Flames of Olympos The Eighth Hades & Persephone
554 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 2, 2021
78 people are currently reading
643 people want to read
About the author
Eris Adderly
21 books575 followersEris writes dark, escape-from-reality romance full of criminals and outcasts. Her stories are the stomping grounds for bada** heroines, untameable alphas, a spectrum of sexuality, and a serious disregard for convention. Expect the decadent and filthy, the crude and sublime, sometimes all at once. Pick a safeword and grab a towel before reading. She is a complete nerd and possible crazy cat lady. She will annoy you with puns.
Eris posts updates with information about her latest works in progress and more on her facebook page and on her website.
Eris posts updates with information about her latest works in progress and more on her facebook page and on her website.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
August 15, 2021
*** Book Q & A***
* How did the book make you feel?: This book took me awhile to read because it was a lot to digest. I feel the author did this myth a great service in this re-imagining.
* How do you feel about how the story was told?: I loved the attention to detail and the amount of historical research the author dedicated to this novel. I enjoyed the use of Ancient Greek terminology. The settings were well-described and the characters were well-fleshed out.
* What did you think about the main characters?: I have always been obsessed with Medousa (Medusa) for some reason. I always felt she got a very raw deal. I think Mrs. Adderly did her a great service in giving her a HEA. I really loved how she wrote Perseus as an alpha sub. That was a fascinating dichotomy. The gorgons were so fascinating.
* Which parts of the book stood out to you?: The initial Domme-sub scenes were all kinds of intense, but well-written. It’s not usually my cuppa, but the author handled it so well in my opinion.
* What themes/tropes did you detect in the story?: revenge, Donne-sub, BDSM, mythology retelling, Villian-turned-hero, enemies to lovers
* What did you think about the ending?: I enjoyed the amount of detail and creative retelling.
* What is your impression of the author?: I’m a forever fan of this author. I look forward to the sequel.
Possible Triggers and Safety: rape, sexual torture and humiliation
* How did the book make you feel?: This book took me awhile to read because it was a lot to digest. I feel the author did this myth a great service in this re-imagining.
* How do you feel about how the story was told?: I loved the attention to detail and the amount of historical research the author dedicated to this novel. I enjoyed the use of Ancient Greek terminology. The settings were well-described and the characters were well-fleshed out.
* What did you think about the main characters?: I have always been obsessed with Medousa (Medusa) for some reason. I always felt she got a very raw deal. I think Mrs. Adderly did her a great service in giving her a HEA. I really loved how she wrote Perseus as an alpha sub. That was a fascinating dichotomy. The gorgons were so fascinating.
* Which parts of the book stood out to you?: The initial Domme-sub scenes were all kinds of intense, but well-written. It’s not usually my cuppa, but the author handled it so well in my opinion.
* What themes/tropes did you detect in the story?: revenge, Donne-sub, BDSM, mythology retelling, Villian-turned-hero, enemies to lovers
* What did you think about the ending?: I enjoyed the amount of detail and creative retelling.
* What is your impression of the author?: I’m a forever fan of this author. I look forward to the sequel.
Possible Triggers and Safety: rape, sexual torture and humiliation
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 31, 2021
“The day you meet my eyes, warrior, is the day you forfeit me your life.” Medousa to Perseus
We forfeit our minds and hearts to Eris Adderly, author of The Mortal Coil, book two in her Flames of Olympos series.
In a time when authors can self publish, and the quality of such literature can vary tremendously, we are gifted to have the opportunity to delve into the unquestionably masterful creation that Adderly presents to us, in all of its mighty and mythical being. The Mortal Coil is a journey, much like the classic Lord of the Rings, where heroes are challenged and evil and good are not always what they appear to be.
This unique story takes place as Perseus, Son of Olympos, and Medousa, the Bane of Men, relate to each other in a way that is entirely unexpected.
Every moment I spent reading this delectable tome, was a chance for me to feel the power of words that held a truly meaningful delight for my mind, as well as the heat that a heart holds when dripping with emotional connections.
Honor yourself by reading the first book in the series, The Eighth House: Hades & Persephone. You deserve the twisted mythology, which can only be found in the mind of Eris Adderly.
We forfeit our minds and hearts to Eris Adderly, author of The Mortal Coil, book two in her Flames of Olympos series.
In a time when authors can self publish, and the quality of such literature can vary tremendously, we are gifted to have the opportunity to delve into the unquestionably masterful creation that Adderly presents to us, in all of its mighty and mythical being. The Mortal Coil is a journey, much like the classic Lord of the Rings, where heroes are challenged and evil and good are not always what they appear to be.
This unique story takes place as Perseus, Son of Olympos, and Medousa, the Bane of Men, relate to each other in a way that is entirely unexpected.
Every moment I spent reading this delectable tome, was a chance for me to feel the power of words that held a truly meaningful delight for my mind, as well as the heat that a heart holds when dripping with emotional connections.
Honor yourself by reading the first book in the series, The Eighth House: Hades & Persephone. You deserve the twisted mythology, which can only be found in the mind of Eris Adderly.
dnf
November 12, 2023Maaaan this is draaaaaging. I'm giving up at 72%.
And I'm all team Medusa deserved better, but I don't have it me to finish this book. Maybe I'll finish it someday, but most probably not.
And I'm all team Medusa deserved better, but I don't have it me to finish this book. Maybe I'll finish it someday, but most probably not.
August 22, 2022
The kids who read Percy Jackson are grown up and writing horny books.
I really wish I could say that this book was good. I really, really wanted to like this. I’m here for the snake lady. I’m here for the femdom. I’m here for the subby Greek hero. I’m really here for the level of research that Ms Adderly has clearly done. But it’s just not very good.
It’s not bad either. I’ve definitely read much worse. But it suffers from from a scattered narrative that makes it confusing and unfocused. The plot is also hella convoluted and in desperate need of streamlining. I literally just finished the book and I could not for the life of me explain the reasoning behind some of the events. Although a fair amount of page time is spent on Perseus and Medusa (this book spells it Medousa, but I will not), most of that is them having sex with really bad BDSM etiquette and it never seems like they actually develop any kind of deeper emotional connection prior to declaring their love for one another.
The ending was honestly pretty depressing, even though it clearly wasn’t supposed to be. Which was sort of a broader trend where the author hewed very closely to the source material, even when she didn’t have to and it actively hindered the story she was trying to tell; Perseus doesn’t have to become king of Argos. Obviously if he’s fucking the snake lady this is not your momma’s Greek mythology. But she also deviates in really weird ways as well? Like having the Minotaur not actually be the son of Pasiphae and the Cretan Bull; instead it’s just a normal quid pro quo rape. Which, fine if you don’t want to open the can of worms that is bestiality in Greek mythology, but there are a pile of rape-y conceptions in mythology that don’t involve animals. What happens to Pasiphae is really fucked up and violating, and so to make the decision to be like ‘no actually that’s all a lie’ is kind of terrible, especially since one of the main themes seems to be about how heedlessly cruel the gods are to mortals.
More generally, the treatment of sex and rape in this book felt kind of Tumblr radfem. Medusa and one of her sisters spend most of the book on the ‘all sex is rape’ train (choo choo!), but there’s never really a whole lot of time spent reflecting on how Medusa treats Perseus (I’ll give you a hint: she sticks a red hot arrow tip on his dick), and when someone does think about it the conclusion is generally ‘Medusa is a rape victim and Perseus had an erection, so it’s fine’. Medusa’s early treatment of Perseus is also justified on that basis that he has frequented prostitues, prostitues=victims, ergo Perseus is a rapist, therefore he deserves to be beaten with broken shells. I’m not saying the more yikes-y relationships can’t be a lot of fun (see: my love for the Forsyth University series), but you can’t raise questions about consent and power and then just hand wave them away. Or at least not without looking like an asshole. And aside from everything else, the whole ‘all sex is rape’ thing is just not the vibe I want in my horny books.
I know this review is making this book sound terrible, but it mostly wasn’t and I’m definitely going to try a few more things by this author.
I really wish I could say that this book was good. I really, really wanted to like this. I’m here for the snake lady. I’m here for the femdom. I’m here for the subby Greek hero. I’m really here for the level of research that Ms Adderly has clearly done. But it’s just not very good.
It’s not bad either. I’ve definitely read much worse. But it suffers from from a scattered narrative that makes it confusing and unfocused. The plot is also hella convoluted and in desperate need of streamlining. I literally just finished the book and I could not for the life of me explain the reasoning behind some of the events. Although a fair amount of page time is spent on Perseus and Medusa (this book spells it Medousa, but I will not), most of that is them having sex with really bad BDSM etiquette and it never seems like they actually develop any kind of deeper emotional connection prior to declaring their love for one another.
The ending was honestly pretty depressing, even though it clearly wasn’t supposed to be. Which was sort of a broader trend where the author hewed very closely to the source material, even when she didn’t have to and it actively hindered the story she was trying to tell; Perseus doesn’t have to become king of Argos. Obviously if he’s fucking the snake lady this is not your momma’s Greek mythology. But she also deviates in really weird ways as well? Like having the Minotaur not actually be the son of Pasiphae and the Cretan Bull; instead it’s just a normal quid pro quo rape. Which, fine if you don’t want to open the can of worms that is bestiality in Greek mythology, but there are a pile of rape-y conceptions in mythology that don’t involve animals. What happens to Pasiphae is really fucked up and violating, and so to make the decision to be like ‘no actually that’s all a lie’ is kind of terrible, especially since one of the main themes seems to be about how heedlessly cruel the gods are to mortals.
More generally, the treatment of sex and rape in this book felt kind of Tumblr radfem. Medusa and one of her sisters spend most of the book on the ‘all sex is rape’ train (choo choo!), but there’s never really a whole lot of time spent reflecting on how Medusa treats Perseus (I’ll give you a hint: she sticks a red hot arrow tip on his dick), and when someone does think about it the conclusion is generally ‘Medusa is a rape victim and Perseus had an erection, so it’s fine’. Medusa’s early treatment of Perseus is also justified on that basis that he has frequented prostitues, prostitues=victims, ergo Perseus is a rapist, therefore he deserves to be beaten with broken shells. I’m not saying the more yikes-y relationships can’t be a lot of fun (see: my love for the Forsyth University series), but you can’t raise questions about consent and power and then just hand wave them away. Or at least not without looking like an asshole. And aside from everything else, the whole ‘all sex is rape’ thing is just not the vibe I want in my horny books.
I know this review is making this book sound terrible, but it mostly wasn’t and I’m definitely going to try a few more things by this author.
August 7, 2021
I love Eris Adderly's reimaginings of myths. I fell in love with Hades and Persephone in Eighth House and I feel just as strongly about Medousa (Medusa) and Perseus.
I am familiar with the original myth, and in order for Medousa to get a HEA, Adderly had to stray from the original myth. I am glad, because Athena is at fault for her curse in both versions, but in Adderly's retelling Athena feels remorse and offers Medousa a boon to compensate her for Posieden r@ping her (how kind of her). Medousa chooses her curse.
So, Medousa spends her years traveling to different islands and cities to kill men who would abuse and harm women. Those women are then offered a safe haven on her island.
Perseus, saves Andromeda, just like the myth, but during his time away his mother is taken. His job is to find Medousa and present her head to the king to save his mother. This is where the myth takes a further turn.
Persues is expelled by Medousa from her island only to return. He tells Medousa what he must do to save his mother. She taunts him by saying if he submits to her will, in everything, she will offer him her neck. Well, he doesn't have much choice to save his mother, so he agrees.
Medousa is a wicked domme and the things she does to him (or makes him do) and deliciously wicked. Surprise, surprise, Persues finds himself turned on and wanting to submit to her.
The question you are left with is will he take her head, if she offers it, to save his mother? Normally, I would spoil this plot point but I really think you need to read this book.
I also enjoyed the side characters stories- we get to see the gorgon sisters and Asterion, Posieden's demigod son.
Just read this, it is so good. I know it will be a long time coming, by Eris has plans to tell a story about Aphrodite and Hephaestus, and I can't wait to see where she takes that story.
I am familiar with the original myth, and in order for Medousa to get a HEA, Adderly had to stray from the original myth. I am glad, because Athena is at fault for her curse in both versions, but in Adderly's retelling Athena feels remorse and offers Medousa a boon to compensate her for Posieden r@ping her (how kind of her). Medousa chooses her curse.
So, Medousa spends her years traveling to different islands and cities to kill men who would abuse and harm women. Those women are then offered a safe haven on her island.
Perseus, saves Andromeda, just like the myth, but during his time away his mother is taken. His job is to find Medousa and present her head to the king to save his mother. This is where the myth takes a further turn.
Persues is expelled by Medousa from her island only to return. He tells Medousa what he must do to save his mother. She taunts him by saying if he submits to her will, in everything, she will offer him her neck. Well, he doesn't have much choice to save his mother, so he agrees.
Medousa is a wicked domme and the things she does to him (or makes him do) and deliciously wicked. Surprise, surprise, Persues finds himself turned on and wanting to submit to her.
The question you are left with is will he take her head, if she offers it, to save his mother? Normally, I would spoil this plot point but I really think you need to read this book.
I also enjoyed the side characters stories- we get to see the gorgon sisters and Asterion, Posieden's demigod son.
Just read this, it is so good. I know it will be a long time coming, by Eris has plans to tell a story about Aphrodite and Hephaestus, and I can't wait to see where she takes that story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 16, 2021
I waited a long time for this book and was delighted the author didn't hold back: it is twice as long as the first in the series (each a standalone in the same universe), and she needed every page to tell this wide-eyed reveal of the myth of Medousa & Perseus.
"The Mortal Coil" is a feast of complimentary tastes: classical research with contemporary interpretation; emotional and psychological journeys, healing and self-empowerment alongside the direct action of a hero's quest; romance and sweet discovery together with the shock of dangerous attraction pushing one's boundaries.
Aphrodite features in Book 1, and plays a significant role here in Book 2. Seeing how the author handles this goddess here, and the next book is about Aphrodite and Hephaistos, I'm interested and a little nervous where this is going to go!
"The Mortal Coil" is a feast of complimentary tastes: classical research with contemporary interpretation; emotional and psychological journeys, healing and self-empowerment alongside the direct action of a hero's quest; romance and sweet discovery together with the shock of dangerous attraction pushing one's boundaries.
Aphrodite features in Book 1, and plays a significant role here in Book 2. Seeing how the author handles this goddess here, and the next book is about Aphrodite and Hephaistos, I'm interested and a little nervous where this is going to go!
March 9, 2022
5 stars
The best version of a medousa and perseus story i've ever read!!
The best version of a medousa and perseus story i've ever read!!
February 24, 2024
Everything I need to say about this book is in the status update below. I prob won't read any more of this author for a good while. Wasn't bad so much as didn't really grip me.
August 7, 2021
I can't even say how much I loved this book. It's just such an amazing story with all kinds of feelings packed into it. There were parts that made me really angry and parts that made me sad. But it all made me feel, and that's the important part.
The story is both really close to the mythology and still really far away. That gives the story a really human feeling that is really important.
I think that Perseus is neither a good man nor a bad man. He's just a man with good and bad parts. He is honorable, I think. He doesn't necessarily think about the world he lives in as the book opens, but that does change. I like his journey.
I have always had a soft spot for Medousa. She got a really bad rap. I understand why she made the choices she did. She is very disciplined and has a strict moral code that she follows. Her journey is fantastic too.
The story is both really close to the mythology and still really far away. That gives the story a really human feeling that is really important.
I think that Perseus is neither a good man nor a bad man. He's just a man with good and bad parts. He is honorable, I think. He doesn't necessarily think about the world he lives in as the book opens, but that does change. I like his journey.
I have always had a soft spot for Medousa. She got a really bad rap. I understand why she made the choices she did. She is very disciplined and has a strict moral code that she follows. Her journey is fantastic too.
August 20, 2021
Just WOW!!!
With Mortal Coil Ms Adderly has created everything I want from a great book: epic world building, intriguing plot, engrossing characters, witty humor and steamy romance - all written with eloquence and intelligence. I highly recommend this book!
With Mortal Coil Ms Adderly has created everything I want from a great book: epic world building, intriguing plot, engrossing characters, witty humor and steamy romance - all written with eloquence and intelligence. I highly recommend this book!
August 1, 2021
Reading an Eris Adderly story can actually take a while. For me, far longer than stories of similar lengths, because I find myself pausing throughout so I can go back and re-read a particularly engrossing scene or simply to enjoy the visual storytelling. In The Mortal Coil, we get the author’s version of Medousa and Perseus’s story and it is amazing. While I generally love mythos—Greek mythic stories being a favorite—the emotions conveyed are so tangible and the storytelling is so engrossing that you’ll instantly be swept up into her epic story. From page one, I ran through range of emotions over how Medousa was treated over the years and I shared her righteous indignation at the travesty of man (you know, the ones with a d***). And then to watch as Medousa’s feelings slowly changed—at least about one man—and how that looked. Wow. I had to go back and re-read whole passages and then take a few moments to think about what I’d just read. If you’ve read The Eighth House, which is book 1 in this series, then you have a general idea what to expect. Forget it. This is better. Ms. Adderly takes the Greek myth and gives it an amazing twist that was a joy to read. #TeamMedousa
January 22, 2022
Medusa & Perseus Retold
This book is AMAAAAAAAAZING!!!! I wish could give it 10 stars!! Eris is a PHENOMENAL writer. The world building, the characters, and the imagery that she comes up with is beyond superior!! I could not put this book down and when I was done reading, immediately wanted to start over. Storytelling at its finest!!
This book is AMAAAAAAAAZING!!!! I wish could give it 10 stars!! Eris is a PHENOMENAL writer. The world building, the characters, and the imagery that she comes up with is beyond superior!! I could not put this book down and when I was done reading, immediately wanted to start over. Storytelling at its finest!!
September 7, 2021
Oh what a Mortal Coil 😉
This is the best version of a Medousa and Perseus story I've ever read. Truly a work of art. Well done Eris!
This is the best version of a Medousa and Perseus story I've ever read. Truly a work of art. Well done Eris!
January 10, 2025
Around this time last year, I read another re-telling of the Medousa myth:
Stone Blind
. I am fascinated by how different the stories are, yet how they both respect the same ancient legend. Stone Blind seems more heavy handed in its "flip" on the patriarchy. In this story, not all the gods are depravedly petty. In fact, they are deservingly revered, powerful, and their realms are enchanting and gorgeous. Furthermore, this Perseus is well-intentioned and painfully honorable compared to the completely assholic coward of the more vehemently feminist Stone Blind. As the intimate relationship between Medousa and Perseus grew, I found myself wondering how The Mortal Coil could possibly remain true to the myths. Eris Adderly handles this problem creatively and adeptly. I am quite impressed.
My main complaint with this book might be someone else's praise. The novel struggles to stay in one genre. 1/3 of the story is intentional, unabashed smut, with plenty of BDSM. (Another example of my-complaint-someone-else's-praise would be the BDSM relationship itself which I just can't stomach as true caring for someone. I didn't like Fifty Shades of Grey either. Master-Slave relationships are just not for me.) Then the remaining 2/3 of the story is smart, well-researched, plot-rich ancient Greek adventure. I found myself really wanting it to be one or the other, even if both are skillfully presented. Finally, blame editing, but there are too many passages where the body choreography just doesn't make sense or where the passing of time is counter-intuitive. At one point, I really thought the author mistook "dusk" as a period of time between night and sunrise, but then she specifically uses it correctly later on.
Still, I was wrapped up in the story and invested in how it would end. I enjoyed the classical Greek overtones, the cunning twists to the established story, and the characters themselves. All three gorgon sisters have distinct personalities, striking beauty, and terrible strength. They were a lot of fun to read about, and the modern world should consider normalizing these monsters!
For my own reference, my husband gave me this book because the author mentioned it on a Fark thread.
My main complaint with this book might be someone else's praise. The novel struggles to stay in one genre. 1/3 of the story is intentional, unabashed smut, with plenty of BDSM. (Another example of my-complaint-someone-else's-praise would be the BDSM relationship itself which I just can't stomach as true caring for someone. I didn't like Fifty Shades of Grey either. Master-Slave relationships are just not for me.) Then the remaining 2/3 of the story is smart, well-researched, plot-rich ancient Greek adventure. I found myself really wanting it to be one or the other, even if both are skillfully presented. Finally, blame editing, but there are too many passages where the body choreography just doesn't make sense or where the passing of time is counter-intuitive. At one point, I really thought the author mistook "dusk" as a period of time between night and sunrise, but then she specifically uses it correctly later on.
Still, I was wrapped up in the story and invested in how it would end. I enjoyed the classical Greek overtones, the cunning twists to the established story, and the characters themselves. All three gorgon sisters have distinct personalities, striking beauty, and terrible strength. They were a lot of fun to read about, and the modern world should consider normalizing these monsters!
For my own reference, my husband gave me this book because the author mentioned it on a Fark thread.
August 30, 2024
The reception in this book was actually surprisingly thoughtful. Romance as a whole is a genre that gives power back to women, so why not save all the raped women of Greek mythology? You have Andromeda and Danae saved from assault from Medusa and Medusa herself avoiding her mythological beheaded fate. All within the bounds of a pretty solid romance.
Adderly also changed the Minotaur's story to make him human and give him his own love. Aphrodite is no longer a cheating wife, now she and Hephaestus are open. But the big thing is that none of these changes affect the broad strokes of the original myth.
Perseus is still saving Danae from Polydectes. He still shows up with a Medusa head and turns Polydectes to stone. He even ends up with Andromeda in a certain way. I liked the way that Persues being a demigod allowed Medusa and him to have a happier ever after than if he'd been constantly turned to stone.
So, if I liked the romance and mythological interpretation, what didn't I like? Well.
The book dragged a lot, especially since you kind of know how everything is going to turn out. I also enjoyed the side romance between Asterion and the other Gorgon, but sometimes other characters got too much time in the spotlight and it distracted from the main story.
Overall, this was a good book, it just wasn't a page turner.
Adderly also changed the Minotaur's story to make him human and give him his own love. Aphrodite is no longer a cheating wife, now she and Hephaestus are open. But the big thing is that none of these changes affect the broad strokes of the original myth.
Perseus is still saving Danae from Polydectes. He still shows up with a Medusa head and turns Polydectes to stone. He even ends up with Andromeda in a certain way. I liked the way that Persues being a demigod allowed Medusa and him to have a happier ever after than if he'd been constantly turned to stone.
So, if I liked the romance and mythological interpretation, what didn't I like? Well.
The book dragged a lot, especially since you kind of know how everything is going to turn out. I also enjoyed the side romance between Asterion and the other Gorgon, but sometimes other characters got too much time in the spotlight and it distracted from the main story.
Overall, this was a good book, it just wasn't a page turner.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 8, 2021
I’ll be the first to admit that my knowledge of mythology is very limited. I like how one reviewer mentioned the 80’s version of Clash of the Titans (which honestly I loved as a kid), yeah, that’s me too… I only know what I know through some different movies I’ve watched throughout the years.
Reading this book definitely peaked my interest in learning more.
This retelling makes me wonder and a little hopeful that this just might have been the way the story went. I loved how it made me think, made me wonder and made me want some more.
I’ll be honest though the femdom/fem domme was a bit too brutal for me. Made me uncomfortable, made me realize that is not something I’d want to read on a constant basis. The whole alpha-sub is something that is hard for my mind to completely wrap around but after writing all that - it does work in this book - even the “brutal” brutality (I’m rambling now…sigh).
One thing I want to mention is that I’ve noticed that when other books that I’ve read since reading this particular book have brought up Medousa/Medusa that I’m immediately thinking of this book again. So, that’s goes to show you how much this story has stuck with me.
Kudos to this author!
Reading this book definitely peaked my interest in learning more.
This retelling makes me wonder and a little hopeful that this just might have been the way the story went. I loved how it made me think, made me wonder and made me want some more.
I’ll be honest though the femdom/fem domme was a bit too brutal for me. Made me uncomfortable, made me realize that is not something I’d want to read on a constant basis. The whole alpha-sub is something that is hard for my mind to completely wrap around but after writing all that - it does work in this book - even the “brutal” brutality (I’m rambling now…sigh).
One thing I want to mention is that I’ve noticed that when other books that I’ve read since reading this particular book have brought up Medousa/Medusa that I’m immediately thinking of this book again. So, that’s goes to show you how much this story has stuck with me.
Kudos to this author!
November 28, 2021
Rating: 3.5 Stars
“Perseus, in Greek mythology, the slayer of the Gorgon Medusa and the rescuer of Andromeda“
…
Title: The Mortal Coil: Medousa & Perseus (Flames of Olympos) #2
POV(s): Multiple—Third Person
Interconnected Series: Yes
Standalone: Yes
Cliffhanger: No
HEA:
Relationship: M/F
Genre(s): Fantasy Romance, Greek Mythology
Triggers: Yes
Tags/Tropes:
❖ Enemies-to-Lovers
❖ Fem-Dom-Male-Sub
❖ Greek-Mythology
❖ Hero-Sent-to-Kill-Heroine
❖ Legendary-Hero
❖ Misjudged-Heroine
❖ Misunderstood-Heroine
❖ Tortured-Heroine
August 2, 2021
I love Greek Mythology. Have since high school when I did a report on the goddess of love. Medusa was not one I ever really got into tho. But I love this author. So it was a no brainer to jump on into this one. And I have to say she changed my mind about Medusa from the first pages. She made her seem so REAL. And even tho she was angry and hurting she learned there was a difference between an innocent and someone deserving of her brand of punishment. Of course this is where Perseus comes in and she decides this one I will teach and he will learn. Perseus has his own problems and is willing to go thru anything to help his mother. Which made me love him from the start.
I really love how this book starts. The reason I love this author so much is because she is so great at telling a story. She makes her characters so Relatable. Even when they are from mythology. She also doesn't skimp on story in any way. So you find yourself (at least I did) fully immersed and enjoying every part of it. Highly recommend!
I really love how this book starts. The reason I love this author so much is because she is so great at telling a story. She makes her characters so Relatable. Even when they are from mythology. She also doesn't skimp on story in any way. So you find yourself (at least I did) fully immersed and enjoying every part of it. Highly recommend!
August 22, 2022
Jesus GOD that was brilliant. The sheer viciousness of their sexual play was glorious, such a goddamned delight in so many ways, his eager submission and her unmitigated power, and all wrapped up in such vivid deft language that has me constantly marvelling and so thrilled.
It's like Eris writes exactly the way I want to write, only I don't have to make the effort, she's done it all for me and I can just enjoy like I want to. I mean, that's the reason I started writing, cos no one else was writing what I want to read. But look, now someone is!
So yes, I utterly adored this. So much so I stayed up past 2am on a Monday morning trying to finish it. As it was, yes, that final act did feel unnecessarily detailed in terms of the showdown. But I loved the final machinations, and one bit definitely made me gasp in total anguish but it all turned out okay.
And the sexual act I wanted to happen in The Eighth House pretty much happened here. It was awesome.
It's like Eris writes exactly the way I want to write, only I don't have to make the effort, she's done it all for me and I can just enjoy like I want to. I mean, that's the reason I started writing, cos no one else was writing what I want to read. But look, now someone is!
So yes, I utterly adored this. So much so I stayed up past 2am on a Monday morning trying to finish it. As it was, yes, that final act did feel unnecessarily detailed in terms of the showdown. But I loved the final machinations, and one bit definitely made me gasp in total anguish but it all turned out okay.
And the sexual act I wanted to happen in The Eighth House pretty much happened here. It was awesome.
August 3, 2021
Everyone knows the story of medusa and how she came to be. This is a very steamy story of perseus and medusa.
Medusa is a strong, domineering woman who must bend Perseus to her will at all costs.
Medusa and her gorgon sisters are the true heroines in this book by saving women from unsavory men.
The characters were well written, you have the heroes, heroines and a host of bad guys. I was so engrossed in this book I found myself going back and re-reading pages to savor a specific passage in the book.
I also love how Eris uses the new and old gods together in this book, I’ve always been a fan of Helios.
I was hooked from the start to the ending, some parts were a little extreme but in all, it was another excellent book by Eris and I would highly recommend.
This is book # 2 in this series and I’m eagerly awaiting book 3 in The Flames of Olympus Series.
Medusa is a strong, domineering woman who must bend Perseus to her will at all costs.
Medusa and her gorgon sisters are the true heroines in this book by saving women from unsavory men.
The characters were well written, you have the heroes, heroines and a host of bad guys. I was so engrossed in this book I found myself going back and re-reading pages to savor a specific passage in the book.
I also love how Eris uses the new and old gods together in this book, I’ve always been a fan of Helios.
I was hooked from the start to the ending, some parts were a little extreme but in all, it was another excellent book by Eris and I would highly recommend.
This is book # 2 in this series and I’m eagerly awaiting book 3 in The Flames of Olympus Series.
August 7, 2021
This is the dark retelling of the story of the Bane of Men, Medousa, and Perseus, the Golden Son. It starts out extremely dark and very emotional, and the scene is set for Perseus to hunt her down. As always, Eris is a master at writing characters. Medousa wasn't a favorite of mine in mythology, but I knew I had to give it a shot after reading Eighth House. Her storyline and growth from trauma and events that happened in her past was very satisfying to read. I also loved following Perseus, who started at the beginning of the book as a hero who wanted to prove himself independent of his godly roots.
This book is LONG and has some very adult themes, as well as dark themes, but is a really wonderful read and was a delightful addition to my library. Kept me up late for several nights reading. Highly recommended!
Favorite character: Asterion
Lease favorite character: Polydektes
This book is LONG and has some very adult themes, as well as dark themes, but is a really wonderful read and was a delightful addition to my library. Kept me up late for several nights reading. Highly recommended!
Favorite character: Asterion
Lease favorite character: Polydektes
August 2, 2021
A dark, twisted retelling, The Mortal Coil delved deeply into the world of gods and monsters, myths and legends and turned everything on its head. Medousa, daughter of the old gods, Sea Guardian, and The Bane of Men, has finally come into her own. Story fleshed out and as vicious as the serpents on her head, Medousa stands as the final arbiter of many a man's final act - turned to marble for their grotesque abuse of young girls and women. Everything you knew about the Greek myths is questioned, turned inside out, and finally brought back together beautifully in a gut wrenching conclusion. I cannot stress enough how much I loved this book HOWEVER please read the content warnings as this is a DARK retelling.
August 4, 2021
I'm a sucker for a greek myth story typically, but many are lackluster shadows of their source material. This is NOT the case for Eris Adderly's Flames of Olympos series. I was hooked on the Eight House and the tale of Persephone and Hades, and eager for the Mortal Coil to see what she did with Perseus and Medousa.
This book was amazing! It went places I did not expect and drew on th greek mythology in such an intriguing way. Her ability to weave in all the pieces we know and make it fresh and new is astounding. The steam and twists were unexpected. It was hard to put down. I will say there is some triggers in this book so may not be for the faint of heart but for everyone else, I highly recommend it.
This book was amazing! It went places I did not expect and drew on th greek mythology in such an intriguing way. Her ability to weave in all the pieces we know and make it fresh and new is astounding. The steam and twists were unexpected. It was hard to put down. I will say there is some triggers in this book so may not be for the faint of heart but for everyone else, I highly recommend it.
August 11, 2021
This story starts off in a very dark place and there are some trigger warnings that should be mentioned. The book starts of with the end of a sexual assault and while the act isn't detailed the emotions are. If this is something you struggle with, please be aware. Now, if it's something you don't really like reading about but you love the idea of vengeance then dive in because this is a fabulous ride. I'm not hugely into mythological stories but I had no issue getting sucked in and enjoying this story. In fact, the book made me interested in finding out what the actual myth was so kudos to Ms. Adderly for sparking an interest and sending me on a deep dive down a rabbit hole.
August 28, 2023
4.5
This was so good like the perfect balance of smut and like femdom with a compelling plot and like Greek mythology like y’all I was eating this shit upppp as I read like I’m sorry. First of all love me a good femdom story but this one was written in like the same way male doms r written and by that I mean like it felt natural in the story and there was still a plot with kinky shit idk. It’s just some femdom books there needs to be great explanation as to why dude likes this which is here but idk I just liked this book. Also idk some people might not like this but I loved getting asterion and euryale’s stories like that was actually so cute and fun
This was so good like the perfect balance of smut and like femdom with a compelling plot and like Greek mythology like y’all I was eating this shit upppp as I read like I’m sorry. First of all love me a good femdom story but this one was written in like the same way male doms r written and by that I mean like it felt natural in the story and there was still a plot with kinky shit idk. It’s just some femdom books there needs to be great explanation as to why dude likes this which is here but idk I just liked this book. Also idk some people might not like this but I loved getting asterion and euryale’s stories like that was actually so cute and fun
August 7, 2021
This book was truly a surprise and I enjoyed it more than I’d have expected. I went in blind, knowing nothing more than it was about Medousa and Perseus. I only vaguely knew their stories, but the original couldn’t possibly be better than this new one. This was my first domme story as well, and as much as I’d have expected not to enjoy it, I find myself surprised at how much I did. Our hero was still a masculine male despite his position within their relationship, and I don’t think it could have worked between them any other way. Don’t let that part scare you away from reading this.
August 3, 2021
Amazing retelling of a demigod and a gorgon
I received this book as an ARC. Second book in the Flames of Olympics series but can be read as a stand alone.
A beautiful re-telling of the story of Perseus and Meduosa. It is not for the faint of heart or anyone with triggers.
Perseus must go to the island of the gorgons to take the head of the Bane of Men in order to free his mother from the king that has her held prisoner and intends to marry her. With help from his demigod cousin Asterion and from the Messager God Hermes, he sets out to either save his mother or become a glorious stone figure in Meduosa's lair. What he finds is very unexpected... Love.
I received this book as an ARC. Second book in the Flames of Olympics series but can be read as a stand alone.
A beautiful re-telling of the story of Perseus and Meduosa. It is not for the faint of heart or anyone with triggers.
Perseus must go to the island of the gorgons to take the head of the Bane of Men in order to free his mother from the king that has her held prisoner and intends to marry her. With help from his demigod cousin Asterion and from the Messager God Hermes, he sets out to either save his mother or become a glorious stone figure in Meduosa's lair. What he finds is very unexpected... Love.
August 2, 2021
The second book in the Flames of Olympos series, but it is a stand alone book.
I enjoy reading about myths so this book was right up my alley. I enjoyed the story and the characters of Medousa and Perseus were well written, but for some reason I couldn’t get into this book. I really struggled to finish this story. For me the story just dragged at place, it didn’t move quick enough and I skimmed quite a bit to get to the end.
This book just wasn’t for me
I enjoy reading about myths so this book was right up my alley. I enjoyed the story and the characters of Medousa and Perseus were well written, but for some reason I couldn’t get into this book. I really struggled to finish this story. For me the story just dragged at place, it didn’t move quick enough and I skimmed quite a bit to get to the end.
This book just wasn’t for me
November 2, 2021
Not Quite There
I fell head over heels for Adderly with “The Eighth House.” I have a growing fondness for Medusa and her story, her injustice. I was super intrigued by this premise.
But this story just didn’t capture me the same way that Hades and Persephone did. Adderly is still a phenomenal writer and I am definitely interested in giving the last book a shot. I love mythology retellings and I want to see where the author goes.
I fell head over heels for Adderly with “The Eighth House.” I have a growing fondness for Medusa and her story, her injustice. I was super intrigued by this premise.
But this story just didn’t capture me the same way that Hades and Persephone did. Adderly is still a phenomenal writer and I am definitely interested in giving the last book a shot. I love mythology retellings and I want to see where the author goes.
August 1, 2021
I love Eris's work and this book was no exception. Medousa and Persius both had dynamic character development and you felt connected as you read the story and come enveloped in the fantastical world via Eris's prose. I love a fresh story and this hit the mark!
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