The Rape Trial of Medusa

I found I couldn’t put this book down and devoured it in a day. It’s not the easiest read. The villains are truly evil and sometimes the dialogue reads like everything they say is meant to be a quote, but I liked the protagonists and I was invested in what happened.

Please note this is a 4.5.

I absolutely adored this novel. There was just so much to love about it- characters who were wonderfully idiosyncratic, action that was fast-paced, and a concept that is absolutely marvellous. One does tend to frequently wonder what would happen if the old gods were held to the modern standards (their myths do little to flatter their behaviour) and so to drag them, kicking and screaming into modernity was marvellous to see. The positioning of Zeus as a Trumpian dictator who secretly runs the world was really quite something, and I loved that it was done so irreverently. It's not subtle satire, but it speaks volumes and works horribly well.

I think the development of the characters (especially Medusa) was also very good. They grow with the case and you find yourself rooting for them very easily in the face of plain evil. I have to give a special mention to 'The Theatre' as one of the most messed up things I have read about in a long time- this was a standout, delivering something horror novels in recent times have absolutely failed to do. The behaviour of the Olympians is beyond messed up, and I adored reading a book that didn't shy away from that kind of depravity (which, again, is an essential element of the myths). The ending was also wonderful- it is rare that I am so satisfied at the end of a book, but this managed to deliver.


My only critique is that sometimes the dialogue felt a little stunted and didn't always feel organic (strangely, mostly from the human characters in this book). A little adjustment in relation to some of it would go miles (and honestly, make this a five star for me). However, all in all, this was a fantastic read in the vein of the myths themselves and I appreciated it enormously.

*NetGalley provided a free copy in exchange for an honest review* TRIGGER WARNING - This novel is based firmly on the rape of Medusa and her subsequent punishment. Only read if you are not triggered by this topic.

I clicked on this book because of the title. I mean, really how could you not be intrigued by this? This novel is a modern-day parallel to the stories of the Greek gods and today's powerful Elite. There were good things and bad things about this novel; but mostly good! This novel takes place in present day New York where the mythical Medusa Gorgon has finally achieved representation for the trial of the century: her rape, and subsequent punishment for being raped by a powerful, rich, and influential male. In this case, an Olympian.

I'll start with the "eh" parts: PACING. The beginning starts slow, and is written as if it is a news article. We meet the players, we have narration by the news casters covering the trial, and slowly we get introduced to the players. The trial itself is solid, we get an idea of how the whole thing is moving, we have delays and extensions, and we get to see the witnesses called to the stand. However, after a pretty big reveal in the novel, the deaths of our influential Olympian are numerous, but we don't really get to see the devastation. It happens rather quickly and is breezed past essentially, that I didn't feel drawn in or vested in suspense for this particular part. The third-quarter of the book sped up and continued that fast-paced momentum through to the end. Normally a fast-pace is a good thing, but this was just a bit too fast for me. There were so many things happening, big reveals, big moments, that I just felt the author could have slowed down just a hair to let those moments really wash over us.
I was also a bit disappointed with the ending, because the set-up of the story-line was preparing me to root for women and to expose those male supremacists and their idea that women who are beautiful and accentuate that beauty are at fault for any sexual crime against them, but the ending, and the person responsible for the whole thing fell on: a woman. Yuck. It just felt a bit conflicting at the end, but I did appreciate the twist because the idea that women break each other down is also common in our society. Ugh. I was left a bit conflicted at the end.

The Good: I liked the way the novel was written. It felt like a news feature in some chapters and then an actual novel in others. The character development was interesting; and the parallels to today's political climate towards women, the idea of rape, and the politicians involved in both rape allegations and legislation was perfect. There was a lot of allusion to "fake news", "twitter posts", "locker room talk", and commentary regarding the victimization of the perpetrators. There were parts in this novel where I was literally shaking with rage, because there are so many people who consistently blame the victim for his/her rape and the author really portrayed the villains in this mindset that was sadly, very accurate to today. Particularly, the commentary on the way the news outlets handle this case, the ruling, and the subsequent events regarding those involved in this affair.

The cover could have been a bit less "legal-ish" -- kinda reminded me of a crime textbook I had back in college, but nonetheless, the novel was provoking, enraging, endearing, and at times absolutely heart-breaking for many reasons. As a woman, this novel spoke to me on many levels, and I recommend it for both male and female readers with an interest in fiction and political crime. I rated this a FOUR-star for the political commentary and creative use of the Medusa myth.

The Rape trial of Medusa is an amazing book. Medusa is a cursed priestess who in this world has been trying for an appeal to end her curse. ( anyone who looks upon her is turned to stone ) so goes the mythology.

What Interests me is the Metoo feel. The abuse of power and social standing may it be a god or person of power. Who gets away with it and doesn’t want to face their accuser because they “ asked for it the way they dressed “ like that’s deserving ?

Also the take on beauty how they find Medusa so hideous even in contemporary standards. The gods and goddesses in this time exists are rich influencers.

I really felt for Medusa when she was talking about the emotional burden. Felt a touch of Circe.

I was given this Arc by netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

I didn't expect to love this book so much. In The Rape Trial of Medusa, the author created this world where the Greek gods live among us, some are ambassadors and senators and practically they are the people with the most power and money in the world.
At the beginning of the story, Medusa Gorgon is brought by the police to the city of Manhattan, where she'll be housed in a special jail. Medusa is going to get her trial to see if the punishment was justified by the alleged crime. The Olympians claim that no one committed rape and Medusa only seduced her brother Poseidon. If Medusa loses the case, she returns to the island where she has spent thousands of years locked up, but if she wins, she will gain back her youth and her freedom. The villain of the story is the Olympians and especially Zeus who with his power floods social media with hatred and torture in a placed called the theater people who are disloyal and do not follow his "rules".
I really like everything about this book the characters and the modern twist of the story. If you like to read about Greek mythology you probably enjoy this book.
5 stars for me
thanks to NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for this Arc in exchange for an honest review

The Rape Trial of Medusa is about exactly that--and Kasenow does a fantastic job building parallels to the world we know today and weaving in Greek mythology in a seamless and believable manner. I was initially skeptical about whether I would enjoy this novel, but within the first few minutes of reading I was hooked/was taken on an emotional rollercoaster that didn't end until I finished the book. I feel like explaining any further/in an more detail would be a disservice to the reader and Kasenow's ability to create a new reality from myth. Even if you're unsure about delving into such a deep topic, I would highly recommend giving this book a shot.

I was given an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

I love the way you have written it. It's easy to read and understand. Starting from the first chapter the way you have described medusa and her thoughts the way you have combined the book is super intresting. Also the day this is published I'll buy it and recommend it to all of my friends.

This book is full of fascinating ideas. A gritty but thought provoking read for anyone interested in Greek mythology.

"Zeus: "These were affairs. Rape is relative."
Harper: "Or in your case, mostly relatives."

This book was a really interesting concept, where the Greek gods are alive in present day New York and are the most powerful elites of society. Thousands of years ago, Medusa was raped and Athena punished her by stripping away her beauty and turning her into a monster. The book follows the trial against the Olympian family.

I loved the idea of Medusa getting justice. The crimes committed against her were horrific and the author did an amazing job of making the Olympians vile and easy to hate. Medusa, on the other hand, is quiet and apologetic. I felt so sorry for her all the way throughout the book and I wanted her to get her HEA.

I found the court case really interesting. I liked Maggie Harper and I loved the way she built her case. The changing of the jury was such a high moment and again when Harper questioned Zeus. I also liked that the judge was honorable and beyond bribery. The tweets about "fake news" were amusing and I enjoyed the snippets which showed the Olympian's dysfunctional family dynamic.

However, I didn't like the ending although it was completely unexpected. I also found the torture and abuse was at times too graphic and unnecessary. Overall however, I would recommend and would like to thank NetGalley and the publisher for this arc in exchange for an honest review.

As the title suggests, the book deals with (in)famous rape of Medusa. After centuries, she is finally able to fight for justice. Against her stand the incredibly powerful Olympians, they have money and influence and they don’t hold themselves back from being cruel to get what they want and need and to get their message across (and sometimes also just for fun). It’s during this trial that the perfect facade they wore disappears and people become more critical of them.
I absolutely loved this part of the story, even though it was awful and heartbreaking. The way in which the story is told is very intriguing. It really felt as if I were watching an actual trial unfold in front of me. I simply could not stop reading and constantly needed more.
Unfortunately, my excitement dropped with the last 50 or so pages. It took a turn I didn’t really enjoy, so I finished this book with a slightly bitter taste in my mouth.
I will still recommend this book to my friends, though, because for the most part, the book was great. 
Thank you NetGalley for this eARC in exchange for an honest review!

I love the Greek Myths and Legends, so this book completely grabbed my attention from the start. Medusa's story has always been one of interest for me. I think this book is a bit like marmite, you either love it or you hate it. I really loved this book. I felt it was written well and covered a very difficult topic (obviously there are trigger warnings for the topic, it may not be for everyone).
Thank you to NetGalley for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I really enjoyed this book.
When I first read about Zeus sending out tweets I was not sure I would like this book, but it really grabbed me and I enjoyed all of the story.
It's a very interesting and well thought out retelling of the story of Medusa and a statement about being true to yourself and standing up for justice no matter what.

I recommend it to anyone who likes retellings or even just wants a great book to escape with.

What a breath of fresh air for a novel!

Characters had a beautiful depth that made you love or hate them... there was no in between, pace was perfect, and the story was superb.

By far one of the better retellings of a myth. A solid 5/5!

This book was a gorgeous documentation about the standards and expectations of women.
Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. This was a fresh representation of Greek mythology that also had a dose of commentary on the world today. This book told a great story while giving an important lesson and captured my attention from the very beginning. I highly recommend this book to anyone seeking out a story that takes over your mind for a while after you read it.

Almost everyone has heard about the tale of Medusa and how she was raped by an Olympian God and because she was supposed to remain pure (virgin) because she was a priestess in a temple for a different Olympian God she was unjustly punished by said God by having her hair turned into snakes that will turn people to stone she is looked upon. The author writes this tale in modern-day times in New York where Medusa finally gets to tell her side of the story. I was deeply intrigued when I saw this novel and I was pleasantly surprised when I read it. This was the first book by this author for me and I will definitely be reading more from them.

"Why not?" Medusa asked. "I am a freak, something to fear. Lepers are feared. Fat people are ridiculed. The homely ignored. We are raised to be perfect, especially women- we are bred to be beautiful. It's human nature to be curious about the pain that others endure. We are told at a young age not to stare, so we look away and pretend that freaks like me don't exist. We dont ask how it feels to be so ugly, so crippled, so fat, so- odd- unless we want to hurt them, and we do, sometimes, then we go in our way laughing at the pseudo-justice of our cruelty; laughing into our wine or with whoever we want to sleep with."

This book surprised me pleasantly and became one of my favourite books.

The infamous Medusa is put to a modern day trial in NYC and Zeus, Athena, Poseidon etc, the Olympians are not the gods but rich people, so rich that they were assumed to be gods, once upon a time. Medusa was raped in the temple of Athena by Poseidon who tempted her but Medusa was the one who was punished because why not? She is a woman for god's sake and how can a man be wrong. But Maggie, and her colleagues are lawyers and are bent to provide justice to Medusa and burst the myth.

The story was not only focused on showing the problems with Greek mythologies and how over the centuries they have wronged women but also how women are still in a deplorable position. It provided various details of killing of girl child, killing of brides for dowry, and even though it's embarrassing to acknowledge how backward my country is in this sense, its not negligible and it's the bitter truth.

The mentality that a girl's beauty, her need to dress herself and look good can be moulded into 'she asked for it!' is so wrong. The part where Medusa said " He did everything and I did nothing yet am the whore" made my heartache because it is so true specially where rich men are concerned.

There is an element of mystery to the story which was again very interesting. Honestly this perspective made me feel the need to question why are the greek heroes still called heroes when they just raped, and killed, tricked and deceived!

The use of Hijab and the cultural appropriation of it into Greek mythology retelling is concerning though.

The trickle of romance and friendships provided softness to the otherwise aggravating narrative. Elements of humour and wonder against cross-generational aspects provided a novel angle. Does this book have issues? Yes. So will I recommend it, yes! I just feel that Medusa was a victim and everyone should know it. Also, I loved how contemporary the writing style felt even when dealing with a greek myth retelling!

I received an advance reader copy of the book by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Thank you to Netgalley & BooksGoSocial for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review

**TRIGGER WARNING** - This novel is based firmly on the rape of Medusa and her subsequent punishment.

I was drawn to the book down to the title - pure and simple. After reading the synopsis I wondered how well could a book set in the present Day but featuring a Mythical Woman would work!

I have to say the writer has done an exceptional job of blending the two together!

This book features current topics around victim blaming and the worlds cultural beliefs around where women ‘fit’ within the world.

This book infuriated me at some points and validated the feelings I have felt myself at other points.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would be happy to recommend it to others.

Admittedly it took me a while to get into The Rape Trial of Medusa, for no other reason than I wasn't 'gelling' with the story. However, after a few chapters I was hooked.
The book is based upon the trial of Medusa V's the Greek God's (she doesn't know who raped her) - it details how Medusa became cursed and the lives of Zeus and his family - who are revered as God's but are portrayed as powerful billionaires.

I loved that the book revealed the intricate relationships between the God's and their history and how the lawyers and friends of Medusa forge their case against the accused. There is a great twist at the end which I had not anticipated and thankfully the book did not end once the trial had finished.

This incredibly written book that deals with the what ifs the Olympian gods are alive and well and everything we knew about them was real. It also asks the questions of where would they be now and the ego maniacs that they would be today. We also take a look at Medusa and for once, she is not a villain but a victim of a cruel fate.

Kasenow gives a fascinating look into the modern world and the ideas of the human race when it comes to women. On my show, I have been raving about this book and this will definitely be on our must read selection in our newsletter that goes out every month. When I was reading the book, I was a bit surprised that this was written by a man as the ideas and theories put forth come from a highly contextualised human being looking how things are not that different from ancient times when it comes to the role of women in society. I think for the best way forward with this review that I will break the novel down in two ways, plotting and political emphasis on a study of the human condition.

The novel is well written and well paced which keeps the reader fully engaged throughout its length. Setting it against a modern world and using media as a tool with the plotting to help frame the story, is a huge asset. The circus around the actual trial and the way the media paints this is masterfully done with a huge emphasis on this. The interconnecting story from the multiple points of view, whether this is the Olympian gods themselves, the law team defending Medusa, Medusa herself or the components found surrounding the characters lift the story to something other than what it is.

On another note, the book is a politically charged understanding of the world around us whether it is media and how we are forced with opinion news with very little facts surrounding the trial and a lot of background noise to distract from the actual case. We also have a story that looks at the roles of women and how they are objectified and their roles in society. On another note, we look at how money and influence can buy themselves into society and get away with whatever they would like and there are huge reflections on how abuse can happened if you have the clout behind you.

The characters are very well described and written. The reader is left with a depth of understanding and feelings for the motivations of each of the characters. Medusa is a tragic figure which the heart yearns for justice, whilst the Olympian goes maniacal planning and plotting keeps things going steady forward. The defence team are a team with the rights of the people at the forefront but through their own guilt, complexities in relationships and human frailty gives them that extra edge of realness. The characters felt fresh and three dimensional and it is quite a feat to take characters that everyone has an understanding of and take them beyond their two dimensional character studies from history class.

Overall, this is a highly exceptional read that has excellent plotting, character development, understanding of the world around and asks a lot more questions than what it answers leaving the reader a lot of thoughts to ponder about long after reading the last words. The story truly resonates with the world around us. Kasenow is able to use plotting devices from mythology and weave this into a tapestry for our time and shows that he is an exciting writer with fantastic insight. I really can’t wait to see what he comes out with next. In fact, I am so impressed that this book will be included as our must read for the month of October newsletter which goes out to 895,000 subscribers as I feel this strongly for it. This is a definite must read.

Wow- I didn't expect to love this as much as I did, as I didn't really know much going into it. First off, the obvious- there are several trigger warnings before you read this book, so please make sure to check that out before you pick this up. Secondly, I love the way the author took these mythologies/gods, and made them, more "modern." This story really had me consider some of the things I believe and made me research more about the mythology behind this book. I recommend to anyone who's looking for a hard-hitting and heavily insightful read!

I am a huge fan of Greek mythology and this book is exactly what I was looking for. I really loved this novel. Characters were amazing, the story was fast-paced and entertaining. I really liked the portrayal of the old greek gods in today's atmosphere, morality and standards. I liked that I could see and feel the critique of this book.

I really enjoyed reading this book, I liked getting to know Medusa and thought it was a great justice for her. I look forward to reading more from the author.

I absolutely adored this novel. There was just so much to love about it- characters who were wonderfully idiosyncratic, action that was fast-paced, and a concept that is absolutely marvellous. One does tend to frequently wonder what would happen if the old gods were held to the modern standards (their myths do little to flatter their behaviour) and so to drag them, kicking and screaming into modernity was marvellous to see. The positioning of Zeus as a Trumpian dictator who secretly runs the world was really quite something, and I loved that it was done so irreverently. It's not subtle satire, but it speaks volumes and works horribly well.

I think the development of the characters (especially Medusa) was also very good. They grow with the case and you find yourself rooting for them very easily in the face of plain evil. I have to give a special mention to 'The Theatre' as one of the most messed up things I have read about in a long time- this was a standout, delivering something horror novels in recent times have absolutely failed to do. The behaviour of the Olympians is beyond messed up, and I adored reading a book that didn't shy away from that kind of depravity (which, again, is an essential element of the myths). The ending was also wonderful- it is rare that I am so satisfied at the end of a book, but this managed to deliver.


My only critique is that sometimes the dialogue felt a little stunted and didn't always feel organic (strangely, mostly from the human characters in this book). A little adjustment in relation to some of it would go miles (and honestly, make this a five star for me). However, all in all, this was a fantastic read in the vein of the myths themselves and I appreciated it enormously.

I love new twists on myths - I always find it interesting to see an author's unique take on those old tales. Medusa is one I haven't seen often, although I am familiar with her original story. Kasenow did a great job bringing the myth into modern times, weaving in issues that arise in today's world, and you could say some things don't change. The wealthy and powerful can stack the deck, but Maggie Harper is there to try and balance the scales, standing by Medusa and fighting for her in the courtroom. The characters were well-developed, and you could almost feel the tension pouring off the page while reading this. Part retelling, part commentary on current cultural and societal norms, this book shines a harsh light on the way women and those considered "lesser" are treated by the rich and powerful. Highly recommend this one!