Stone Blind by Natalie Haynes - Fiction - Hardcover

Condition: New
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781529061475
Publisher: Mantle

Overview:
Stone Blind is Natalie Haynes' dazzling, feminist reimagining of the Medusa myth, told from the perspective of the only mortal in a family of gods. A Sunday Times bestseller and longlisted for the Women's Prize for Fiction 2023, this novel transforms one of Greek mythology's most maligned figures into a deeply human, sympathetic heroine. Blending sharp wit, lyrical prose and profound emotional insight, it's a must-read for fans of mythological retellings, feminist fiction and character-driven historical fiction alike.

About the Book:
Medusa is the only mortal among her immortal Gorgon sisters. Growing up alongside them, she is the sole one who ages, feels pain and understands the fragility of a finite life. When the sea god Poseidon commits an unforgivable act against her in the temple of Athene, the goddess exacts her revenge not on the perpetrator but on his victim, transforming Medusa forever. Writhing snakes replace her hair and her gaze turns any living creature to stone, a power she cannot control and one that condemns her to a life of shadows, unable to look upon anything she loves without destroying it. Natalie Haynes takes this ancient, often maligned myth and turns it inside out, giving voice to Medusa and the other women written out of, or vilified within, the traditional tale. The narrative moves between multiple perspectives, weaving humour and heartbreak together as it examines power, divine cruelty, and the price mortal women pay for the whims of gods. Haynes' trademark erudition and wit bring the ancient world vividly to life, while her feminist lens invites readers to reconsider a story they thought they knew. Praised by authors such as Madeline Miller and endorsed by Margaret Atwood as "witty, gripping, ruthless", Stone Blind stands as a bold, moving and often very funny retelling that has resonated with readers and critics alike, cementing its place among the finest modern mythological reimaginings.

Key Benefits:

• A fresh, feminist retelling of the Medusa myth from an award-longlisted, Sunday Times bestselling author.
• Perfect for fans of mythological retellings such as Circe and The Song of Achilles.
• Blends wit, emotional depth and sharp storytelling for an engaging, thought-provoking read.
• Longlisted for the Women's Prize for Fiction 2023 - a mark of literary quality and acclaim.
• Brand new Hardcover edition, ideal for collectors and gifting.
• A standalone novel, perfect for both mythology newcomers and seasoned classicists.

About the Author:
Natalie Haynes is a British writer, classicist and broadcaster celebrated for bringing ancient myths to modern audiences. A graduate of Cambridge University, she is the author of several acclaimed novels including The Children of Jocasta and A Thousand Ships, the latter shortlisted for the Women's Prize for Fiction in 2020. Her nonfiction book Pandora's Jar was a bestseller in both the UK and US. Haynes has also written and presented eight series of her BBC Radio 4 show, Natalie Haynes Stands Up for the Classics, and won the Classical Association Prize in 2015 for her work popularising the Classics.

Why You'll Love This Retelling:
Stone Blind gives Medusa back her humanity, turning centuries of myth on its head with wit, empathy and fierce feminist insight. It's a gripping, unforgettable read for anyone who loves myths retold with heart.

Please Note: Cover may vary slightly; this is the UK edition as shown, matching ISBN 9781529061475.