Jennifer Saint's Ariadne is celebrated for its lyrical prose and fresh perspective on Greek mythology, highlighting the strength and resilience of its female characters. Critics appreciate its feminist reinterpretation, though some feel the pacing is uneven. Overall, it’s a captivating retelling that gives voice to often overshadowed mythological figures.

A reader who enjoys Ariadne by Jennifer Saint is likely fascinated by Greek mythology, enjoys well-researched retellings of ancient stories, and appreciates strong, nuanced female protagonists. Fans of Madeline Miller's Circe or Natalie Haynes' A Thousand Ships will find this novel particularly compelling.

Ariadne by Jennifer Saint is a 2021 fantasy novel that retells the myth of Theseus and the Minotaur from the perspective of Ariadne, daughter of King Minos and sister to the Minotaur. Ariadne helps Theseus defeat the Minotaur and escapes Crete with him, but after he abandons her on Naxos, she finds solace with the god Dionysus. The story explores gender roles, heroism, and the lives of women in ancient Greece. The novel features depictions or mentions of sexual assault, domestic violence, and violence against children.

Mysterious / Melancholic / Bittersweet / Fantastical / Emotional

- Ariadne is Jennifer Saint's debut novel, published in 2021, and it offers a fresh feminist perspective on the classical myths surrounding the Minotaur and the women linked to its story.
- The novel has been praised for its lush, lyrical prose, which vividly brings to life the ancient Mediterranean setting and the emotional depth of its characters.
- Jennifer Saint was inspired by a long-standing fascination with classical mythology, influenced by her background as an English teacher, before making her transition to novel writing.

**Ariadne**  
A princess of Crete and daughter of King Minos, central to the story with her experiences in ancient Greek society and her interactions with important mythological figures.

**Phaedra**  
Ariadne's younger sister who becomes queen of Athens, providing a contrasting perspective on themes of marriage and independence.

**Theseus**  
A heroic but complex figure known for defeating the Minotaur, whose actions drive significant plot developments and affect the lives of the female protagonists.

**Dionysus**  
The Greek god of wine and pleasure who forms a pivotal relationship with Ariadne, offering comfort and transformation.

**The Minotaur (Asterion)**  
A part bull, part human creature, born to Queen Pasiphae, and integral to Crete's mythology, whose existence impacts several characters' lives.

**King Minos**  
The tyrannical ruler of Crete, whose actions and demands have far-reaching consequences for his family and enemies.

**Pasiphae**  
Wife of King Minos and mother of Ariadne and Phaedra, who endures the consequences of divine curses.

**Daedalus**  
A renowned inventor who constructs the Labyrinth and plays a key role in helping Ariadne and Theseus.

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