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Femme Fatale #3
Madonna
A spicy urban fantasy novel, Madonna is a modern-day Medusa retelling with Greek mythology and romance, perfect for fans of Alessa Thorn's Medusa, Madeline Miller's Circe, or Katee Roberts' Stone Heart.
On an isolated island in the Pacific, removed from most of humanity, Madonna has finally come home to deal with the sordid family secret. Except now that she's back, she's having dreams of fangs and snakes and oceans ... dreams that you're not listening, Madonna.
Meanwhile, it has been many centuries while Medusa has waited through each lifetime of her lineage for this moment. Redemption.
Now that Madonna's home, everything is the same, yet different. The truths that she has held for so long are slowly unravelling. When she finds herself in the underbelly of the town, she realises just how little she truly knows. And she's forced to question beliefs about her blood that have defined her - until now.
Are we really made out of the strength of our convictions?
Or are we made out of the opinions of others?
Sometimes it takes a while for the truth to come out...
Lies. Secrets. A long-lost lineage. Redemption. This is a spicy Medusa retelling in the Greek mythology realm like no other.
Gwyneth Lesley's "Madonna" is the third standalone novel in the Femme Fatale series, retelling the myth of Medusa through the eyes of her long-lost descendant. The bloodline may be watered down, but the curse - like all family trauma - remains.
"Madonna" is a modern-day Greek mythology retelling containing themes that may upset some people. Please read the trigger warnings at the beginning of the book.
On an isolated island in the Pacific, removed from most of humanity, Madonna has finally come home to deal with the sordid family secret. Except now that she's back, she's having dreams of fangs and snakes and oceans ... dreams that you're not listening, Madonna.
Meanwhile, it has been many centuries while Medusa has waited through each lifetime of her lineage for this moment. Redemption.
Now that Madonna's home, everything is the same, yet different. The truths that she has held for so long are slowly unravelling. When she finds herself in the underbelly of the town, she realises just how little she truly knows. And she's forced to question beliefs about her blood that have defined her - until now.
Are we really made out of the strength of our convictions?
Or are we made out of the opinions of others?
Sometimes it takes a while for the truth to come out...
Lies. Secrets. A long-lost lineage. Redemption. This is a spicy Medusa retelling in the Greek mythology realm like no other.
Gwyneth Lesley's "Madonna" is the third standalone novel in the Femme Fatale series, retelling the myth of Medusa through the eyes of her long-lost descendant. The bloodline may be watered down, but the curse - like all family trauma - remains.
"Madonna" is a modern-day Greek mythology retelling containing themes that may upset some people. Please read the trigger warnings at the beginning of the book.
239 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 10, 2023
57 people are currently reading
1022 people want to read
About the author
Gwyneth Lesley
12 books131 followersGwyneth Lesley is the author of the Femme Fatale series and the Underworld Novellas, containing modern-day Greek mythology retellings. Expect heartbreaking, steamy romances or cosy feel-good vibes in her books (depending on which series you pick up). When she’s not writing, you can find her cooking in her kitchen or going on bush walks in her home country of New Zealand. You can keep up with her adventures on Instagram at @gwenthegreekmythgirl and her books at www.gwynethlesley.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
December 21, 2022
***I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.***
Madonna paints a vivid picture depicting how one woman fights against a domineering matriarch, a judgemental small town, and her own personal demons. A riveting tale examining generational trauma and its impacts, this book will hold the reader from cover to cover. Gwyneth Lesley has yet again provided an immersive experience which leaves you with the character's raw emotions dangling on a precipice with every turn of the page.
Some content may not be suitable for some readers. Trigger warnings: sexual assault, incest, victim blaming/shaming, and grooming of a minor.
Madonna paints a vivid picture depicting how one woman fights against a domineering matriarch, a judgemental small town, and her own personal demons. A riveting tale examining generational trauma and its impacts, this book will hold the reader from cover to cover. Gwyneth Lesley has yet again provided an immersive experience which leaves you with the character's raw emotions dangling on a precipice with every turn of the page.
Some content may not be suitable for some readers. Trigger warnings: sexual assault, incest, victim blaming/shaming, and grooming of a minor.
December 29, 2022
***I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.***
Gwyneth Lesley is back with another heart wrenching story! (In a good way)
So well written, so much raw emotion. I feel like I was there with Madonna through her struggles and feelings throughout the whole book. I am in love with how the author can... not "retell" Greek myths... but she 'continues' the classic stories in a modern day setting. I cannot understand how she does this so well, but it works!
Beautiful. Inspiring. Emotional. Challenging.
Revisiting trauma and confronting your past is never an easy thing, and you feel all that raw emotion in this book; but it is so beautifully written that I couldn't put it down!
Gwyneth Lesley is back with another heart wrenching story! (In a good way)
So well written, so much raw emotion. I feel like I was there with Madonna through her struggles and feelings throughout the whole book. I am in love with how the author can... not "retell" Greek myths... but she 'continues' the classic stories in a modern day setting. I cannot understand how she does this so well, but it works!
Beautiful. Inspiring. Emotional. Challenging.
Revisiting trauma and confronting your past is never an easy thing, and you feel all that raw emotion in this book; but it is so beautifully written that I couldn't put it down!
January 3, 2023
**ARC Book review for an honest opinion**
Thank you, Gwenyth Lesley, for allowing me to read this book.
Rate 4.5
Madonna was misunderstood, traumatized, and hurt.
It was time to face what had happened and let the moment reveal the quiet truth of her family's past and hers.
This book contains sensitive topics, revealing a deeply painful story and a little brightness that carried along the way for Madonna to be able to see along her path.
Opinion: This book gave me a lot to think about. Changing the dynamic that not everything is a happy story was definitely what I needed. Medusa's retelling story was traumatized and tragic, and that was what delivered the pain and heartbreak between a life that was treated poorly by their own family. The love story between Mark and Medusa was there, but I felt it faded along the side. I understand this wasn't a love story, it was a retelling. I think that was the only touch I was missing to be able to balance it for me. But otherwise, the retelling was delivered. Writing is always exquisite and fun to read. Thank you once again.
Thank you, Gwenyth Lesley, for allowing me to read this book.
Rate 4.5
Madonna was misunderstood, traumatized, and hurt.
It was time to face what had happened and let the moment reveal the quiet truth of her family's past and hers.
This book contains sensitive topics, revealing a deeply painful story and a little brightness that carried along the way for Madonna to be able to see along her path.
Opinion: This book gave me a lot to think about. Changing the dynamic that not everything is a happy story was definitely what I needed. Medusa's retelling story was traumatized and tragic, and that was what delivered the pain and heartbreak between a life that was treated poorly by their own family. The love story between Mark and Medusa was there, but I felt it faded along the side. I understand this wasn't a love story, it was a retelling. I think that was the only touch I was missing to be able to balance it for me. But otherwise, the retelling was delivered. Writing is always exquisite and fun to read. Thank you once again.
December 23, 2022
***I had the honor of receiving this arc in exchange for an honest review ***
I have been devouring Medusa retellings this year, so naturally, I was so excited to review the third book in the Femme Fatale Series. Let's get to it!
First and foremost, this book is well written. The descriptive story pulls you in and keeps you guessing. I was initially concerned that the 'Medusa retelling' would get lost in this urban setting, but Author Gwyneth Lesley weaves in Medusa's tragic story without flaw.
****This book has a lot of different TW, and the author provides that upfront.***
Our MC Madonna Clearwater, along with her family, are direct descendants of the fabled Greeks. No matter how far away Madonna runs, her past is always close behind. She is asked to return to her hometown Ōakura in hopes of preventing another family scandal. Little does she know she will be forced to unpack an absurd amount of family trauma, uncover lies long forgotten, and finally face her own misplaced shame.
This book puts you right in the mindset of what it's like to relive trauma. There were so many times I wanted to shout and curse the sky for Madonna. I felt like I could personally feel her distrust of everyone around her, and rightfully so.
The love interest didn't work for me, but I'm positive it will speak to others. The spice, however, was excellent. This is a great retelling for anyone who loves Medusa. A SOLID four stars from me.
I have been devouring Medusa retellings this year, so naturally, I was so excited to review the third book in the Femme Fatale Series. Let's get to it!
First and foremost, this book is well written. The descriptive story pulls you in and keeps you guessing. I was initially concerned that the 'Medusa retelling' would get lost in this urban setting, but Author Gwyneth Lesley weaves in Medusa's tragic story without flaw.
****This book has a lot of different TW, and the author provides that upfront.***
Our MC Madonna Clearwater, along with her family, are direct descendants of the fabled Greeks. No matter how far away Madonna runs, her past is always close behind. She is asked to return to her hometown Ōakura in hopes of preventing another family scandal. Little does she know she will be forced to unpack an absurd amount of family trauma, uncover lies long forgotten, and finally face her own misplaced shame.
This book puts you right in the mindset of what it's like to relive trauma. There were so many times I wanted to shout and curse the sky for Madonna. I felt like I could personally feel her distrust of everyone around her, and rightfully so.
The love interest didn't work for me, but I'm positive it will speak to others. The spice, however, was excellent. This is a great retelling for anyone who loves Medusa. A SOLID four stars from me.
February 16, 2023
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Trigger Warnings: Sexual Assault, Incest, Grooming, Victim Blaming. May not be suitable for some readers, so be cautious, though the author does provide these upfront!
5/5 Stars!
Originally I rated this book 4.5/5 but after the second read, and after obsessing over the book for weeks, I changed the rating to 5/5. I just could not stop thinking about this damn book!
Madonna touches on heavy generational traumas and it’s impacts with deep, raw emotions throughout. It explores the struggles and feelings of Madonna as she faces her own demons, and I really appreciate the way Gwyneth Lesley integrates these aspects into this well-written Medusa retelling.
Medusa’s story is heartbreaking and traumatising, and Gwyneth delivered in incorporating those feelings into this retelling, and I was left feeling the pain and heartbreak of Madonna and almost as if I was reliving her trauma.
I really love the way Gwyneth created an atmospheric setting which worked with the tone of the story to allow me to experience New Zealand in a different light. I was born and raised in the North Island of New Zealand, and I often find myself having certain thoughts about my country and I really separate the beauty of it from what I actually think just because I live here. I don’t find much interesting because it’s not special since I’ve been here my whole life. I don’t know how or why it happened, but I often found myself thinking differently of New Zealand when reading this book, and I love that it did. I fully appreciate the way this book made me fall in love with my home country.
That was a long tangent, I apologise haha. I also enjoyed the characters dynamics and found them quite interesting. In particular, Madonna and Ismene added so much depth into the story and made the whole read more interesting because of what these characters represent.
The ending was also incredible. It’s a good feeling when everyone gets what they deserve haha.
I have read the other books in this series, and I love how the series has progressed.
I definitely enjoyed this book, so much so that its become a personal favourite. I think Gwyneth has outdone herself and I cannot wait for future works!
Finally, I appreciate being given the chance to receive an ARC and review this beautifully written book. Thank you Gwyneth!
Trigger Warnings: Sexual Assault, Incest, Grooming, Victim Blaming. May not be suitable for some readers, so be cautious, though the author does provide these upfront!
5/5 Stars!
Originally I rated this book 4.5/5 but after the second read, and after obsessing over the book for weeks, I changed the rating to 5/5. I just could not stop thinking about this damn book!
Madonna touches on heavy generational traumas and it’s impacts with deep, raw emotions throughout. It explores the struggles and feelings of Madonna as she faces her own demons, and I really appreciate the way Gwyneth Lesley integrates these aspects into this well-written Medusa retelling.
Medusa’s story is heartbreaking and traumatising, and Gwyneth delivered in incorporating those feelings into this retelling, and I was left feeling the pain and heartbreak of Madonna and almost as if I was reliving her trauma.
I really love the way Gwyneth created an atmospheric setting which worked with the tone of the story to allow me to experience New Zealand in a different light. I was born and raised in the North Island of New Zealand, and I often find myself having certain thoughts about my country and I really separate the beauty of it from what I actually think just because I live here. I don’t find much interesting because it’s not special since I’ve been here my whole life. I don’t know how or why it happened, but I often found myself thinking differently of New Zealand when reading this book, and I love that it did. I fully appreciate the way this book made me fall in love with my home country.
That was a long tangent, I apologise haha. I also enjoyed the characters dynamics and found them quite interesting. In particular, Madonna and Ismene added so much depth into the story and made the whole read more interesting because of what these characters represent.
The ending was also incredible. It’s a good feeling when everyone gets what they deserve haha.
I have read the other books in this series, and I love how the series has progressed.
I definitely enjoyed this book, so much so that its become a personal favourite. I think Gwyneth has outdone herself and I cannot wait for future works!
Finally, I appreciate being given the chance to receive an ARC and review this beautifully written book. Thank you Gwyneth!
January 25, 2023
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review*
Continuously so impressed at the way that Gwyneth can make her books so relatable. This book touches heavily on generational traumas and the way they can be passed down through the generations. Often we carry a burden that isn’t even ours, yet we are forced to come to terms and accept these burden when it’s not always right or fair. Gwyneth shines a bright light on this. It touches on the vast impact of familiar pressures, something I’m all too familiar with. Madonna was a woman who made herself heard and fought on, even at the worst, even at her loneliest. She was forced to face her demons and the journey was heart wrenching. So much sadness, hope, and inspiration in these pages. Beautifully written and a genius blending with the myths of Medusa. It’s truly amazing the way that the Femme Fatale series books have each thought me something about self growth or acceptance.
A Lifetime Kind of Love is still my favorite of the series but this book is certainly a force to reckon with.
Oh, and there was some very tasteful risky spice.
Please make sure you read trigger warnings prior due to sensitive topics.
Continuously so impressed at the way that Gwyneth can make her books so relatable. This book touches heavily on generational traumas and the way they can be passed down through the generations. Often we carry a burden that isn’t even ours, yet we are forced to come to terms and accept these burden when it’s not always right or fair. Gwyneth shines a bright light on this. It touches on the vast impact of familiar pressures, something I’m all too familiar with. Madonna was a woman who made herself heard and fought on, even at the worst, even at her loneliest. She was forced to face her demons and the journey was heart wrenching. So much sadness, hope, and inspiration in these pages. Beautifully written and a genius blending with the myths of Medusa. It’s truly amazing the way that the Femme Fatale series books have each thought me something about self growth or acceptance.
A Lifetime Kind of Love is still my favorite of the series but this book is certainly a force to reckon with.
Oh, and there was some very tasteful risky spice.
Please make sure you read trigger warnings prior due to sensitive topics.
February 10, 2023
This book Madonna was AMAZING. I love it and couldn’t put it down. Completely devour-able. You will love this. I love how this continues the story of mythology in to a modern day setting. It is very inspirational and beautiful written I recommend it. 10/10 would read again and will be adding to shelf.
January 18, 2023
Madonna by Gwyneth Lesley is a unique take on the myth of Medussa. It explores generational trauma, victim-blaming, and the privileges which protect predators from facing justice in a society obsessed with keeping up appearances and maintaining the status quo.
This is by far my favorite from the Femme Fatale series because the author managed to create an atmospheric setting which matches the tone of the story. Furthermore, it allowed me to experience New Zealand in my mind in a new way (which is vastly different from The Shire of LotR that I always associate it with). All the descriptions converged to give me a feeling of coldness which complemented the themes of the book perfectly.
With regards to the characters, I find the dynamics between Madonna & Ismene to be really interesting. They are so different and often at odds with each other yet through their silence (which stemmed from different reasons), inadvertently became enablers of the abuse which contributed to the cycles of trauma. There's so much to unpack about these characters and the things they represent but I think it would suffice to say that these two gave the story so much depth.
Lastly, the ending was truly satisfying. The twist was clever, and I just freakin love it when everyone gets what they deserve.
This is by far my favorite from the Femme Fatale series because the author managed to create an atmospheric setting which matches the tone of the story. Furthermore, it allowed me to experience New Zealand in my mind in a new way (which is vastly different from The Shire of LotR that I always associate it with). All the descriptions converged to give me a feeling of coldness which complemented the themes of the book perfectly.
With regards to the characters, I find the dynamics between Madonna & Ismene to be really interesting. They are so different and often at odds with each other yet through their silence (which stemmed from different reasons), inadvertently became enablers of the abuse which contributed to the cycles of trauma. There's so much to unpack about these characters and the things they represent but I think it would suffice to say that these two gave the story so much depth.
Lastly, the ending was truly satisfying. The twist was clever, and I just freakin love it when everyone gets what they deserve.
July 29, 2024
Love Madonna! High school ex-boyfriend in a small town as an adult. Kinda gave me less traumatized seven days in June - their dynamic anyway. And love the way the curse is in this, I was worried before reading but it was good.
January 27, 2023
I enjoyed this Medusa redemption story — all the family drama, the “back to my home town” theme was really well done and I honestly couldn’t put it down. A fun read with a Greek mythology twist!
February 21, 2023
Such a good book!! I love the plot and some of the charters.
December 31, 2022
I loved the retelling of Medusa, the spice, and the depth of the story. I love how the author makes a retelling set in modern day. She makes it work well.
Throughout the story, we see the trauma and mistrust of people. I can't really blame her through it. No matter how she tries to escape, the past is not far behind. The spice in the story was perfect. This book's will keep readers captivated from first page to last. I can't wait to read more of this author's work.
Throughout the story, we see the trauma and mistrust of people. I can't really blame her through it. No matter how she tries to escape, the past is not far behind. The spice in the story was perfect. This book's will keep readers captivated from first page to last. I can't wait to read more of this author's work.
January 15, 2023
After receiving a phone call telling her mom wasn’t doing well Madonna raced home to see her, but not everything is not it seems. While her mom is sick that wasn’t the main reason she was called back. Her past is coming up to bite her in the ass, and most of it not in a fun way. Will she be able to leave her once she has seen her mom and leave it all behind once more? Well, you gotta read to find out! 😊
I enjoyed Madonna’s book, it was written well, and engaging, and it will make you want the author to finish the next book faster so you can devour more of her novels. Loved it and thank you again for the ARC copy.
I enjoyed Madonna’s book, it was written well, and engaging, and it will make you want the author to finish the next book faster so you can devour more of her novels. Loved it and thank you again for the ARC copy.
January 11, 2023
I was lucky enough to be give an copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, and it won’t get much more honest that I loved it!
Handling any kind of retelling without being heavy handed about it is difficult, and unsurprisingly, Gwyneth Leslie manages to craft a lush tale with a light, adept touch. She handles the characters with grace, despite the topic, which isn’t the easiest (deception, family betrayal, reconnecting with an old flame), and she brings each of them to full life and tangibility.
Do yourself a favour and give this a shot if you’re looking for a new read from a talented author.
Handling any kind of retelling without being heavy handed about it is difficult, and unsurprisingly, Gwyneth Leslie manages to craft a lush tale with a light, adept touch. She handles the characters with grace, despite the topic, which isn’t the easiest (deception, family betrayal, reconnecting with an old flame), and she brings each of them to full life and tangibility.
Do yourself a favour and give this a shot if you’re looking for a new read from a talented author.
January 15, 2023
Third book in the Femme Fatale series & GLs writing & storytelling still leaves me awed.
Harrowing, passionate, vengeance & the ultimate vindication.
Myth perspective, I never viewed Medusa but anything except a monster. This retelling has me curious to learn more of her legend.
Harrowing, passionate, vengeance & the ultimate vindication.
Myth perspective, I never viewed Medusa but anything except a monster. This retelling has me curious to learn more of her legend.
January 11, 2023
This story is about Medusa and her lineage. The mythology and supposition are beautiful. This story was wrought with pain and emotion but also love. It is beautiful and tragic (like any good myth).
I have read all three books so far and this is my favorite. The author has a wonderful way of building the story and the characters. The ending is perfect! I highly recommend reading this book.
I have read all three books so far and this is my favorite. The author has a wonderful way of building the story and the characters. The ending is perfect! I highly recommend reading this book.
March 29, 2024
Best story yet!
I have now read all of the books currently published by Gwyneth Lesley and it the best story yet. Some spice, some tears and some anger- everything that makes me a happy reader. I was an ARC participant for her underworld omnibus that was just released and that one is second to this one. Her stories just keep getting better and better.
I have now read all of the books currently published by Gwyneth Lesley and it the best story yet. Some spice, some tears and some anger- everything that makes me a happy reader. I was an ARC participant for her underworld omnibus that was just released and that one is second to this one. Her stories just keep getting better and better.
March 14, 2024
Madonna is an incredibly personal book for me. I wrote it in my hometown (New Plymouth, New Zealand) because I had witnessed what happens to a family member when they get victim-blamed. I watched how that impacted their behaviour, relationships, and how that filtered down to the younger generation. I noticed the tension at family events, and how dynamics changed.
As I continued writing Madonna, the story took on a life of its own (as they always do) and the old myth of Medusa reared her head again. And I think the power and relevance the old myths have on our current realities is so incredible still, that I couldn't not share this story.
I also think from a technical writing POV, it's my best work yet.
As I continued writing Madonna, the story took on a life of its own (as they always do) and the old myth of Medusa reared her head again. And I think the power and relevance the old myths have on our current realities is so incredible still, that I couldn't not share this story.
I also think from a technical writing POV, it's my best work yet.
May 28, 2023
3.5 stars
I really, really wanted to like this book. I like the Medusa myth, I like modernized myths in general, and I love a good redemption arc/curse breaking.
To start: this book is really well written. The premise and the plot is solid. There is nothing about this book that would stop me from trying other books in this series, or from this author. I liked the strong female characters (yes, even the evil ones) and I thought that the trauma was handled respectfully without giving overly graphic scenes.
So what's the problem? The MMC. He is cute and smooth but he never, not once, apologized for what he did to the FMC in their youth. We also see him, twice, storm away in a fit of rage, leaving her in a compromising position both physically and emotionally....and he barely apologizes for that as well! He shows some remorse for all of it but never actually apologizes, and that just rubs me entirely the wrong way. For this to be a truly happy ending, I wish he had actually apologized. And while I understand we are all human and he was frustrated, one less bout of anger would have been great.
Again, I liked the writing and the premise so I am definitely going to go backwards and read at least one of the others in this series. I just wish the MMC had been a little kinder in this one.
I really, really wanted to like this book. I like the Medusa myth, I like modernized myths in general, and I love a good redemption arc/curse breaking.
To start: this book is really well written. The premise and the plot is solid. There is nothing about this book that would stop me from trying other books in this series, or from this author. I liked the strong female characters (yes, even the evil ones) and I thought that the trauma was handled respectfully without giving overly graphic scenes.
So what's the problem? The MMC. He is cute and smooth but he never, not once, apologized for what he did to the FMC in their youth. We also see him, twice, storm away in a fit of rage, leaving her in a compromising position both physically and emotionally....and he barely apologizes for that as well! He shows some remorse for all of it but never actually apologizes, and that just rubs me entirely the wrong way. For this to be a truly happy ending, I wish he had actually apologized. And while I understand we are all human and he was frustrated, one less bout of anger would have been great.
Again, I liked the writing and the premise so I am definitely going to go backwards and read at least one of the others in this series. I just wish the MMC had been a little kinder in this one.
August 13, 2023
This was a heavy Sunday read. It wasn't as spicy as I thought it was going to be.
As a medusa retelling, I thought the story would be more similar to the one of medusa. But it seems to be more of a modern interpretation of the continuation of medusas story.
The story is based on medusas curse being carried on through her lineage until someone broke the generational trauma. I thought the story was well written and flowed very easily. The characters made me feel frustration, disgust and anger. I was a bit emotional towards the end. I struggled to understand the dreams Madonna was having, I didn't see how they linked to the story.
I thought the relationship with Mark was a bit too easy. Although we see the distrust is still there, I would've liked a bit more of a slow burn with their romance.
As a medusa retelling, I thought the story would be more similar to the one of medusa. But it seems to be more of a modern interpretation of the continuation of medusas story.
The story is based on medusas curse being carried on through her lineage until someone broke the generational trauma. I thought the story was well written and flowed very easily. The characters made me feel frustration, disgust and anger. I was a bit emotional towards the end. I struggled to understand the dreams Madonna was having, I didn't see how they linked to the story.
I thought the relationship with Mark was a bit too easy. Although we see the distrust is still there, I would've liked a bit more of a slow burn with their romance.
February 16, 2023
My fave one of the series so far! This series has piqued my interest in a genre I didn't even know existed, let alone one I now actively seek out. Madonna is a fab read; it flows nicely and the anticipation builds - along with the love and hatred for different characters! As a queer person, I'm pretty critical about hetero-sex scenes, but these were really well-written and not cringe-inducing. The dream sequences and dialogue were absolute highlights - immersive and believable, which is so important in a story that brings myth into a contemporary reality. Gwyneth Lesley is a highly skilled author, attuned to the human experience, and doesn't overwrite emotions or sentiments; her writing just gets better. A must-read!
February 1, 2023
I always read her books so quickly because they’re so easy to read and so captivating that I don’t want to put it down. I love a myth based retelling that doesn’t feel like I’m reading something written hundreds of years ago. This story of Madonna is one we’ve all heard, unfortunately. A woman’s truth isn’t believed, even by the people who are supposed to care for her. Little does she know, it’s a generational curse, set in motion long before she was even born. Madonna chooses to fight for what is right, seeking justice for herself and others along the way. It’s a beautiful story of love and family and resilience.
March 22, 2023
Gwyneth Lesley does a fantastic job of retelling the Medusa myth in current times. Madonna’s story is tragic, frustrating, relatable, and redeeming. Medusa is commonly seen as this vicious monster, when really she is punished for trusting the wrong man. Athena turns Medusa and her sisters into the Gorgons due to the loss of her maidenhood in Athena’s temple, even though Poseidon takes it. Through Madonna’s story, we are able to read through a similar event and even watch the well-deserved redemption of our main character. The parallels to the Greek myth are outstanding and really help the story progress. This book was so engaging and easy to read, I highly recommend.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 7, 2023
This is the third book I've read by Gwyneth Lesley and yet again, I am always impressed. Madonna is the latest book in the Femme Fatale series of standalone novels featuring the modern-day stories of women with ties to greek mythology and might just about be my favourite. This book has quite a few trigger warnings included at the start including victim blaming, sexual assault, incest and a few more which may be distressing to some readers.
I liked the love interest and the spicy scenes but what I like even more is that they didn't take away from the rest of the plot. Madonna is a gripping read about a woman fighting against a judgemental religious community and her overbearing grandmother while trying to overcome the personal impacts of the generational trauma occurring within her family. The characters of Madonna and Ismene (the grandmother) are so well-developed and together their conflict and differing beliefs add a lot of depth to the story. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and am really excited to read the next books in upcoming years.
Thank you so much to the author for offering me an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
I liked the love interest and the spicy scenes but what I like even more is that they didn't take away from the rest of the plot. Madonna is a gripping read about a woman fighting against a judgemental religious community and her overbearing grandmother while trying to overcome the personal impacts of the generational trauma occurring within her family. The characters of Madonna and Ismene (the grandmother) are so well-developed and together their conflict and differing beliefs add a lot of depth to the story. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and am really excited to read the next books in upcoming years.
Thank you so much to the author for offering me an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
May 2, 2023
I love mythology and I was in a real Medusa kick and after falling in love with Gwyneth Lesley’s writing in Prometheus’ priestess I thought I would love this too. I’ll be honest this is the loosest “retelling” I’ve ever read. It was barely a retelling, it was only really a retelling because someone got the bad touch in a temple and it was the girls fault not the guy who did the bad touching.
March 9, 2024
A wonderful retelling of Medusa's Curse
I really fell into this story and could not put it down. The characters are vibrant and heartbreaking. The story is tragic and unforgiving. Wonderfully written.
I really fell into this story and could not put it down. The characters are vibrant and heartbreaking. The story is tragic and unforgiving. Wonderfully written.
November 5, 2024
Very well written. It shook my sens of morale a few times and gave me an eerie feeling with the present. I can understand women and men being in this helpless position. But the smut scene wasn't necessairy.
But eventhough there are enough loose ends to make a second book 😉
But eventhough there are enough loose ends to make a second book 😉
April 15, 2023
Love the New Zealand location, the crossing of historical to modern timelines. What a journey. Loved every page.
May 24, 2023
3.5 stars
March 3, 2024
It was well written I quite enjoyed it. Don't know if I would breed a game but I definitely want to read the rest of the series
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