Natalie Haynes's Stone Blind receives praise for its fresh feminist perspective on the Medusa myth, offering depth and empathy to the oft-misunderstood character. Reviewers commend the lyrical prose and engaging narrative. However, some critique it for occasional pacing issues and a complex structure that might confuse readers unfamiliar with Greek mythology. Overall, it’s an evocative retelling that balances modern sensibilities with ancient lore.

Readers who enjoyed Circe by Madeline Miller or The Silence of the Girls by Pat Barker will find Stone Blind by Natalie Haynes captivating. This book is tailored for fans of Greek mythology retellings, strong female protagonists, and lyrical prose that reimagines classical narratives from a modern perspective.

Stone Blind by Natalie Haynes retells the Greek myth of Medusa from her perspective, depicting her origins, her transformation into a Gorgon, and her eventual death at the hands of Perseus, who is portrayed as a spoiled demigod aided by gods. The novel weaves themes of Appearance and Monstrosity, Coping With Trauma, and Consent, Justice, and Violence, providing a counter-narrative to traditional heroics. This book includes anti-gay bias, ableism, implied death by suicide, misogyny, and sexual violence.

Mysterious / Fantastical / Contemplative / Emotional / Dark

- Stone Blind by Natalie Haynes reimagines the myth of Medusa, focusing on themes of perception and misinterpretation in mythology.
- Natalie Haynes, known for her work in classic literature reinterpretation, continues her pattern of giving a voice to traditionally silenced female figures in Stone Blind.
- The novel is part of a broader trend of modern retellings of Greek myths, a genre Natalie Haynes is highly regarded for, due to her ability to blend classical scholarship with contemporary storytelling.

**Medusa/The Medusa-Narrator**  
The mortal Gorgon sister and protagonist, who grows up with her immortal siblings and later becomes a first-person narrator, revealing her internal struggles and response to events around her.

**Sthenno and Euryale**  
Medusa's immortal Gorgon sisters, who care deeply for her despite their differences and contribute significantly to the familial and emotional dynamics within their shared home.

**Poseidon**  
The Olympian god of the sea and an antagonist in the story, whose actions directly impact Medusa's fate and illustrate the themes of power and masculinity.

**Athene**  
The Olympian goddess of war and wisdom, who plays a pivotal role as an antagonist to Medusa, driven by her complex motivations and relationships with other gods.

**Perseus**  
A demigod and offspring of Zeus, tasked with obtaining a Gorgon's head, whose journey intersects dramatically with Medusa's narrative.

**Zeus**  
The ruler of the Olympian gods and father of Perseus, whose influence extends over the events and characters, embodying themes of authority and control.

**Princess Danaë**  
The mother of Perseus, known for her protective nature toward her son and her navigation of challenging circumstances involving powerful figures like Zeus.

**Princess Andromeda**  
A royal figure whose life is intertwined with Andromeda’s rescue, carefully balancing personal agency with the expectations and events unfolding around her.

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