Mythology has captivated people for centuries, weaving together gods, heroes, and epic battles that explore timeless themes of love, fate, and destiny. Today, authors breathe new life into these ancient stories, blending myths from different cultures, reimagining them from fresh perspectives, and giving them a modern twist.
Whether you’re fascinated by Greek tragedies, Norse legends, or the mystical tales of India and Egypt, this list of 20 incredible mythological retellings will transport you into worlds both familiar and new.
1. Circe – Madeline Miller
This bestselling novel reimagines the story of Circe, the enchantress from The Odyssey, giving her a voice and a rich inner world. Born into the house of Helios, Circe is shunned for her lack of divine power but discovers her own magic through witchcraft. As she crosses paths with mortals and gods alike, she must carve out a place for herself in a world that sees her as an outsider.
2. The Song of Achilles – Madeline Miller
A breathtaking retelling of the Iliad, this novel follows the love story between Achilles and Patroclus. As the Trojan War looms, their bond is tested by fate and prophecy, leading to a tragic yet beautiful reimagining of one of mythology’s most famous legends. Miller’s lyrical prose and deep character development make this a must-read.
3. The Silence of the Girls – Pat Barker
Told from the perspective of Briseis, a Trojan queen captured by Achilles, this novel sheds light on the often-overlooked women of the Iliad. It explores themes of survival, resilience, and the cost of war, offering a powerful and haunting counterpoint to the traditional hero’s tale.
4. Ariadne – Jennifer Saint
This novel retells the story of Ariadne, the princess of Crete who helps Theseus defeat the Minotaur. Betrayed and abandoned, she must forge her own path beyond the shadow of men’s ambitions. Rich in Greek mythology and emotion, this book gives a fresh perspective to a well-known legend.
5. Pandora – Susan Stokes-Chapman
Set in Georgian London, this retelling imagines the myth of Pandora’s box in a historical setting. When an ancient vase arrives at an antique shop, secrets begin to unravel, blending mythology with mystery and romance. It’s a unique take on one of the most famous myths of all time.
6. The Witch’s Heart – Genevieve Gornichec
Inspired by Norse mythology, this novel follows Angrboda, the witch and mother of Loki’s monstrous children. Banished by Odin, she builds a life in exile, only to find herself caught in the web of fate as Ragnarok approaches. A beautifully written story about love, power, and destiny.
7. Daughter of the Moon Goddess – Sue Lynn Tan
Blending Chinese mythology with fantasy, this novel follows Xingyin, the daughter of the Moon Goddess, as she embarks on a quest to free her mother from exile. Along the way, she discovers her own strength and place in the celestial realm. The lyrical prose and vivid world-building make this an enchanting read.
8. Piranesi – Susanna Clarke
While not a direct retelling, Piranesi evokes mythological themes with its labyrinthine world reminiscent of the Minotaur’s maze. The protagonist, trapped in an endless house of statues and tides, unravels a mystery that feels both ancient and timeless. A deeply atmospheric and thought-provoking novel.
9. Norse Mythology – Neil Gaiman
Gaiman retells classic Norse myths with his signature wit and storytelling skill. From the mischievous Loki to the mighty Thor and the tragic Ragnarok, this collection brings old stories to life for modern readers.
10. The Golem and the Jinni – Helene Wecker
Blending Jewish and Arabic folklore, this novel tells the story of a golem and a jinni who meet in 19th-century New York. As they struggle to find their place in the human world, their stories intertwine in a mesmerizing tale of mythology and magic.
11. The Shadow of Perseus – Claire Heywood
This fresh take on the Perseus myth follows the perspectives of three women: Danae, Medusa, and Andromeda. Each of their lives is deeply impacted by the hero’s journey, offering a compelling look at the untold sides of Greek mythology.
12. The Bear and the Nightingale – Katherine Arden
Inspired by Russian folklore, this novel follows Vasilisa, a young girl who can see spirits others cannot. When dark forces threaten her village, she must embrace her heritage to protect her home. A beautifully atmospheric book filled with magic and mythology.
13. Kaikeyi – Vaishnavi Patel
A reimagining of the Indian epic Ramayana, this novel tells the story of Kaikeyi, often portrayed as the villain. It explores her motivations, ambitions, and the choices that led her to shape one of India’s most enduring legends. A powerful feminist retelling of a misunderstood figure.
14. Gods of Jade and Shadow – Silvia Moreno-Garcia
Inspired by Mexican mythology, this novel follows Casiopea Tun as she embarks on a journey with the Mayan god of death. As they travel through 1920s Mexico, Casiopea must balance fate, love, and the power of the gods.
15. The Children of Jocasta – Natalie Haynes
A retelling of Oedipus and Antigone’s stories from the perspective of the women often overshadowed by the tragedy. This novel breathes new life into an ancient tale, making it fresh and deeply human.
16. House of Names – Colm Tóibín
A reimagining of the House of Atreus saga, this novel explores the aftermath of Agamemnon’s sacrifice of his daughter, Iphigenia. Told through the voices of Clytemnestra, Orestes, and Electra, it delves into themes of revenge and destiny.
17. Stone Blind – Natalie Haynes
Medusa’s story has often been told as one of a monster, but Stone Blind gives her a voice, revealing the truth behind her transformation and suffering. This is a powerful and emotional retelling of one of Greek mythology’s most tragic figures.
18. The Mark of Athena – Rick Riordan
Part of the Heroes of Olympus series, this novel brings together Roman and Greek mythologies as Percy Jackson and his friends go on a quest to unite the two warring factions. A fun and adventurous blend of ancient myths and modern storytelling.
19. The Lost Queen – Signe Pike
A historical and mythological retelling of the real woman who may have inspired Morgan le Fay from Arthurian legends. Set in ancient Scotland, this novel blends history with myth to create an immersive experience.
20. The Red Pyramid – Rick Riordan
This book introduces readers to Egyptian mythology through the adventures of Carter and Sadie Kane, siblings who discover they are descendants of powerful pharaohs. As they navigate magic and ancient gods, they must save the world from chaos.