The Fates by Rosie Garland Review

Hello Readers,

I’ve read a lot of Greek myth retellings over the years, but I think this is the first book I’ve read that’s focuses on the Fates. This book isn’t just about The Fates also known as the Moirai but also ties in the story of Atalanta, Meleager, and the Calydonian Boar Hunt in a way that feels fresh and exciting. Rosie Garland has created a truly unique take on Greek mythology that had me hooked from the very beginning.

What I loved most was how the book blends myth, fate, time, and even patriarchy into a powerful story. The writing has a timeless, classical feel, but what I really loved was how the story unfolds through multiple points of view including the Fates, Zeus, and the mortal characters. It makes the whole story feel rich and layered without ever being confusing.

Zeus is portrayed exactly as he often comes across…manipulative, selfish, and deeply flawed. I am 10/10 cruising for a bolt this Greek Myth May. It’s refreshing to see him depicted as more of a villain, especially since so many retellings try to soften him. In contrast, Themis was a standout for me. She’s such a calm, grounding force in the middle of all the divine chaos. Rosie’s version deepened my appreciation for the Titian.

But the real heart of this story is the Fates Clotho, Lachesis, and Atropos. They’re usually just in the background of mythology, quietly spinning and snipping threads, but here they’re front and centre, with full personalities, complicated relationships, and even their own backstories. It was so satisfying to finally see them explored in depth.

Rosie’s writing is beautiful without being over-the-top. She weaves in a ton of mythological references, but it never feels like she’s just name-dropping. Instead, everything serves the story and the characters. Let’s be honest I am a huge fan of those characters who’ve often been sidelined or misunderstood in traditional myths.

Overall, The Fates is a gorgeously written and incredibly take on Greek mythology. If you’re into myth retellings and want something that dives deep into lesser-known stories with emotion, depth, and a little edge, this one’s definitely worth picking up. 

L x

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