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Jennifer Saint’s fantasy novel, based on Greek mythology, reimagines the story of Ariadne and Phaedra, daughters of King Minos. The sisters grow up in the shadow of the palace of Knossos and the terrible shame of their family — their brother the Minotaur, a monster imprisoned in the Labyrinth. When Theseus arrives in Crete, seeking to kill the beast and end the bloody tribute from Athens, Ariadne dares to help him. A decision driven by love becomes the beginning of a story about choice, consequences, and the will of the gods.
A bestseller in The Sunday Times and a finalist for the Goodreads Choice Award 2021 in the “Readers’ Favorite Fantasy” category.
What the book is about
This is a retelling of a familiar myth through female perspectives. The author shifts the focus from heroic deeds to the inner world of the sisters. The story explores sisterhood, trust, and betrayal, as well as the lives of women in a world where decisions are made for them by gods and men. The conflict takes place not only in external events but also within the heroines themselves.
The narrative is told in the first person, mainly from Ariadne’s perspective, with additional chapters from Phaedra, adding depth and emotional resonance. Mythology is presented in a sensual, atmospheric way through recurring symbols such as the sea, stone, heat, and the labyrinth. The style focuses on emotions and inner experiences, with a melancholic tension that carries through to the ending. The novel is translated into Ukrainian for the first time.
About the author
Jennifer Saint is a British writer known for retelling Greek myths from the perspective of female characters. Ariadne was her debut novel and brought her wide readership attention.
Why read “Ariadne”?
It is an emotional and atmospheric story about love, choice, and the cost of defying the gods. The novel blends a well-known myth with a modern perspective on women’s fate and leaves a strong emotional impact.