The Gorgon Bride

First, Alex is informed by a ferryman that he’s not quite alive anymore, which he refuses to believe. Then, he accidentally insults the goddess Athena, who decides to punish him for it. Thanks to Athena’s last punishment, she has to play matchmaker to Phorcys’s gorgon-cursed daughter, and Alex may be the one who can help her. Alex is whisked away and left on an island full of statues where he comes face to face with Euryale. But the gorgon isn’t the monster he was expecting. Soon he’s sent on an adventure fit for heroes and has to prepare for a battle with the gods.

Galen Surlak-Ramsey puts a fun and modern twist on Greek mythology. These famous tales come to life with Alex in the middle of a feud among the gods. The obstacles Alex faces are inspired by the heroes of Greek mythology as he faces lions, a giant, temptation, and even himself. Heroes Heracles and Odysseus play an important role in the story, acting as mentors, setting Alex on the right path, and giving cryptic answers to his questions. Several famous characters from myth have appearances throughout, with a fun near-cameo by the Fates. Like any Greek tale, there’s some tragedy, but the story isn’t without its happiness and fun. The gods’ personalities and their punishments, though dark, also have a twisted humor and a slight eccentric quality. As Alex discovers the thrill of adventures and the strength it takes to be a hero, he faces the meaning of love and what he’s willing to do to fight for it. The Gorgon Bride is an adventure about bravery, self-discovery, and the power of love.