I love Natalie Haynes writing and this book doesn’t disappoint. She touches on a wide variety of female goddesses, both well-known and others not so much. I found the book interesting, well-researched, and funny (especially with Natalie’s remarks dotted throughout). A fabulous introduction to strong female characters in Ancient Greek times.

"Divine Might" offers an immersive exploration into the diverse narratives of Greek goddesses within the realm of Greek Mythology. The author, masterfully employs a writing style that resonates with readers, blending a humorous approach with contemporary references seamlessly woven into the ancient tapestry of myth.

The author's adept storytelling not only captures the essence of each goddess but also infuses the narratives with a modern flair, making the ancient tales accessible and engaging for contemporary readers. The inclusion of humorous elements adds a delightful layer to the storytelling, creating moments of connection and reflection on the timeless themes presented in these myths.

"Divine Might" stands as a testament to the author's skill in interpreting and presenting Greek mythology, allowing readers to appreciate the richness of these goddess stories while drawing intriguing parallels between the past and present. It's a commendable continuation of the author's legacy, offering both enjoyment for enthusiasts of Greek mythology and an accessible entry point for those new to the subject.

The E-Book could be improved and more user-friendly, such as links to the chapters, no significant gaps between words and a cover for the book would be better. It is very document-like instead of a book. A star has been deducted because of this.

This is a first for me by the author and one I enjoyed and I would read more of their work. The book cover is eye-catching and appealing and would spark my interest if in a bookshop. Thank you to the author, publisher and Netgalley for this ARC.

Having loved Natalie Haynes’ retellings I was really looking forward to diving into a more non-fiction collection of her work. It absolutely lived up to my expectations - Haynes is so talented at writing mythology and I find that this was as easy to read and understand as her previous fictional retellings. Having loved this, I’ll definitely be heading to Pandora’s Jar, another non fiction collection of essays about mythology.

What an interesting read. I love how Natalie Haynes makes her books both witty and informative at the same time, giving you a female perspective on mythology and Divine Might is no exception.

While this is non fiction, a chapter by chapter look at several of the best known Greek goddesses it reads like a story, making it so accessible. While I'm not a big non fiction fan, I love mythology, especially different takes on them. And this is definitely that.

While often told from a Male view point, Natalie's very informed and researched view can totally make you think WOW and totally change your perspective.

This book is a great look at Greek goddesses, figures we think we know, yet be prepared to have viewpoints shift as you read.

Cleverly written, I loved the chapter by chapter look at each Goddess making this book easy to delve in and out of.

I was gifted a copy of this to read by netgalley, but enjoyed it so much I also listened to the audiobook of this which I also recommend as its narrated by the author herself..

Definitely worth a read!

There’s a lot going on in this book and I read a lot of it with google open, checking sculptures or paintings and being constantly amazed at Ms Haynes storytelling. This is an educated book but the learning is worn lightly and you don’t need to know anything about classics or mythology to really enjoy it.

These goddesses and their interactions is like some huge soap opera, and you can see many instances where the stories impact modern culture and novels.

The chapters focus on a different goddess but there’s a lot of crossover, and characters pop up regularly - especially Zeus. I love that "it really does seem that Zeus sent his mum to apologise for his crummy behaviour because he was too scared to own up in person." Zeus’s mum must have been very busy!

The duties of the Vestal Virgins centred around maintaining the sacred flame of Vesta. If the fire went out they were beaten… but if they lost their virginity, they were buried alive! That’s quite a job description.

This is funny, shocking, educational and highly entertaining. Suitable for anyone interested in mythology and classical stories. Ms Haynes has done it again.

I was given a copy of this book by NetGalley

This is slightly different from Haynes’ other books, rather than the focus of the story being on one, it talks about many of the goddesses within Greek mythology.

I didn’t enjoy this quite as much as her previous novels, probably because it tried to pack too much detail into individual chapters, which left me feeling rushed through the book.

That aside, it was a good book and is well worth a read.

After reading Pandora’s Jar, I was so excited to hear about another non fiction book detailing the stories of Greek myth, and also the roles these female goddesses had within their respective stories that can often be overshadowed. Such an important text to show all sides of the same coin, from the authors perspective. Natalie Haynes has once again out done herself in the Greek mythology department!

I will preface this by saying I didn’t realise it was going to be non-fiction - I was expecting another retelling (like Stone Blind or A Thousand Ships) but that’s a me problem! Natalie Haynes’ books are brilliant - this is no exception!

Divine Might is an anthology of eight essays, each dedicated to a different Greek Goddess. We learn about their histories and myths though a modern perspective and various adaptations.

I particularly enjoyed the pop culture references - to me, this made it more accessible and kept me interested!

My favourite essay was Artemis, and the comparisons to Katniss Everdeen and the Hunger Games. So much more of the series is founded in Greek/Roman myth than I realised - such as the children from Crete sent as sacrifices to the Minotaur, the Roman gladiator arena and the even the character/place names.

I will say it was quite an info dump - but I often find that challenging with non-fiction in general.

I definitely see myself coming back to this book in the future for reference - wouldn’t necessarily recommend reading it all in one go. Another great book from Natalie Haynes!

Natalie Haynes' nonfiction is as excellent as ever. Blending her studies in classics, research of pop culture references and sparkling humour, this is another enjoyable book that examines some of the Greek goddesses.

Haynes draws on a range of classical references, with significant contributions from Ovid in her latest volume. While I was raised on a children's picture book edition of Greek myths, and later on Percy Jackson, she brings attention to both the greater ambiguity and greater violence present in more ancient sources. In doing so, and with some close reading, on show are the goddesses' strengths and power that they were accorded as an exception in ancient Greek society.

There are a mix of crowdpleasers and some perhaps lesser known goddesses included in the mix. I particularly enjoyed the final chapter's commentary on the Furies and their existence pre-dating the modern court trial. However, the book did open on the Muses, which may not have been the strongest or most engaging character[s] to have begun with.

Nonetheless, it's a very entertaining and informative read for anyone that has a familiarity with Greek myths outside of any classics studies. I much prefer Haynes' confident and witty nonfiction voice to her fiction and this one is no exception.

Even though I felt like this collection of examinations of Greek goddesses was missing some of the oomph of Pandora's Jar, I still had a great time reading it and there's nobody else I'd rather learn about the goddesses from. Natalie Haynes has such an entertaining way of telling gthese stories that it's difficult to think this entire subject area was off limits for those without private education until recently.

Divine Might is a superb non-fiction offering from Natalie Haynes which explores female figures in Greek Myth.

I love all things about Mythology and Greek Myth is my favourite so I was excited to receive a review copy of Natalie Haynes new book.

Each chapter looks at a different Goddess and takes an in depth look at her story through a modern lens. Natalie discusses The Muses, Hera, Aphrodite, Artemis, Demeter, Hestia, Athene and The Furies. Some of their stories I was familiar with but some I was not.

I really enjoyed the witty yet informative writing style and found this to be a well researched and thought-provoking read.

This year was supposed to be my non-fiction year and I have not read nearly as much non-fiction as I had planned but I’m glad this was one of them. I have a deep-rooted fascination with ancient mythology and how these stories have survived and continue to play a role in our modern media.

Unfortunately, history is notoriously biased. Gods and heroes are all-powerful men celebrated despite their flaws. Despite the wrongs they might commit, their heroic deeds are written permanently into myth while their counterparts sit pretty or petty.

In Divine Might, Haynes dismantles traditional myth and reinterprets the power and worship afforded to the Greek goddesses through a clear and easy-to-digest examination of their stories.

Each of these figures deserves a book in their own right, even silent Hestia. There is so much depth to each of them and while this book is a great taster for Greek mythology, I feel it barely scratches the surface. Smart and entertaining, this is a book that makes the mythology accessible, simple to understand, and is ultimately a joy to read.

At this point I would just read Natalie Haynes’ shopping list if it was given to me.

Another amazing book that I enjoyed immensely.

Essays on some well known and not so well known goddesses, we go through their myths, adaptations and perceptions through a modern lens.

The Hera and Hestia chapters were particular favourites.

I will admit non-fiction is something that I struggle with, but NH’s narrative is humorous and conversational, never giving the feeling I am reading from a dry textbook.

Informative and insightful.

Thank you to NetGalley and Pan MacMillan
5/5 ⭐️

The goddesses of the Greek myths seem all powerful and in sharp contrast to their mortal compatriots. In a misogynistic society worship of powerful female figures didn't seem too anachronistic. Here Haynes explores a number of deities and the evidence we have for their myths and worship. The exploration covers the standard Greek myths but pulls together evidence from the myths and contemporary culture yet follows the pathway throughRoman beliefs and pan-theism and through to modern day exemplars. It is wonderfully readable book but one which is also incredibly learned.

There are two amazing authors I have been privileged enough to hear speak that made me feel I wasted my life and could have done more important work. They are Peter Frankopan and Natalie Haynes. Both eminently talented and funny, both of a similar age to me. Growing up in the states, I doubt if my early love of Greek myth could have been something I made a living from but reading/listening to Natalie Haynes I feel I should have tried. Her passion and knowledge makes something in my heart sing. Though I haven't a fraction of her learning on the topic, my casual fascination is enough to fill me with joy each time she publishes a book.

Divine Might follows on beautifully from Pandora's Jar as Natalie chats about Goddesses, sharing easily their strengths and weaknesses and illustrating why we love or despise them. Of course she writes about Hera, Athene, Aphrodite and Artemis - these lovelies are box office draws. But the chapters that drew me in the most were the ones on the Muses, the Furies and Hestia. Great kudos for Hestia! Few may know of her but my devotion goes so far as to name my sourdough starter after her. Goddess of home and hearth, indeed! She is well worshipped in my household each time we slice into a fresh loaf.

I love Natalie's conversational way of talking in these books. It is choked full of facts and history but never feels as if you are enduring a lecture. The tying in of pop culture references makes ancient Greek myth approachable and let's the reader understand our authoress better. Geeking out on Greek myth is such a guilty pleasure for me and this book gets full marks for entertaining as well as teaching. Thank you so very much, Natalie!

A big fan of Hayne’s writing, both fiction and non-fiction. This non-fiction work focuses on female stories.

Touching on the muses, Sappho, Persephone, this has all your favourite Greek women and tells their story.

Brilliant

Thank you to NetGalley and to the publisher Pan Macmillan/Picador for the digital ARC, it has not affected my honest review.

TW: discussions of rape and sexual assault, violence against women, misogyny

I'm an enormous fan of Natalie Haynes’ fictional work (and also her podcast) so I was delighted to be approved to read "Divine Might", a series of essays studying the Greek goddesses. This is a sequel of sorts to the author's previous release, "Pandora's Jar" which focused on the women of Greek mythology. Here Natalie Haynes discusses the stories of well-known goddesses like Hera, Athena and Aphrodite while bringing detailed attention to less popular legends like Hestia, the Muses, the Furies and Demeter. I love how Natalie Haynes gives us the earliest versions of a myth, takes us through the most famous plays featuring them and then leads seamlessly into a discussion of modern perceptions of these women. All within this there is a constant reminder that the women of Greek myth are mistreated and abused, and how wrong it is that the majority of mythological women have very little to say in ancient texts. My favourite part is how the humour is balanced with insightful details about life in Ancient Greece, combined with information about adaptations of plays and how mythology can change over time. I particularly loved the section on the Nine Muses, as it brought about a discussion about the role of women as inspiration for men even when they're creatives themselves (such as the poet Sappho). Likewise, I enjoyed the section of this book that was dedicated to Hera, who is often demonised in myth, and how it analyses her behaviour in different sources. I hope that Natalie Haynes writes more books like this in the future because it’s a wonderful way of interpreting Greek mythology.

So far, I've loved every peace of fiction I read from Haynes, and I just really love Greek mythology, so you bet I was going to read Haynes' non-fiction approach to the many goddesses we know and adore. And I had such a great time with this!
I loved how thoroughly Haynes looked at her goddesses, each chapter dedicated to one of them, including the Big Ones like Hera but also the lesser known or just less popular ones like Hestia or the furies and muses. As usual, there's a lot of humour sprinkled between the pages, which made it a pretty quick read despite it usually taking me a lot of time to read non-fiction. I breezed through this one.
I didn't feel like all her popcultural references and comparisons always worked perfectly, but it was a lot of fun to read about. I especially enjoyed the chapter about Hestia - one of the most important goddesses, yet also one we barely hear or read anything about. It was enlightening and made me appreciate her so much more.
So yes - I loved this. There really isn't much else to say. It's wonderfully written, insightful and funny, and Haynes' passion for mythology is felt on every single page. I got this as an arc, but am already ordering the hardcover as we speak.

Really insightful and well put together look at the Greek Goddesses and how they've been shaped by a male gaze, as well as their influence on current day culture, art, music and film. Obviously I personally loved the chapters on Artemis and the obvious link with Katniss Evergreen, but also the more thought provoking discussion around Aphrodite and Athene and their lasting legacies. Throughout there's this discussion about loosing your voice bring the most powerless thing that can happen to an individual - being turned into a cow or deer for example, but also again this idea that women were constantly without a voice or opinion.

I always love Natalie Haynes writing, whether it's fiction or non fiction she has such an eloquent way of putting her opinion across in a way that educates without sounding condescending. For someone such as myself who really enjoys Greek and Roman mythology, I still came away with new perspectives and ideas and overall it just makes the myths feel exciting and fresh again. Highly recommend.

My thanks to Pan Macmillan Picador for an eARC via NetGalley of ‘Divine Might: Goddesses in Greek Myth’ by Natalie Haynes. On publication I purchased its hardback edition.

This is a fascinating overview of eight Greek goddesses. These are: the Muses, Hera, Aphrodite, Artemis, Demeter, Hestia, Athena, and the Furies.

I am a huge fan of Natalie Haynes’ writings - both fiction and nonfiction. She writes in a very conversational style that includes amusing quips and asides.

She doesn’t just focus upon ancient texts but considers these Goddesses as they have been depicted throughout history, including in art and modern popular culture.

I was especially amused by her inclusion of details of the Playmobil toy Hestia, which is part of their Greek Mythology collection. Naturally I have a number of these adorable mythological toy figures among my collectibles.

I feel that this approach brings these distant figures of myth more fully into the modern world and demonstrates their continued relevance.

Overall, I found ‘Divine Might’ an excellent read and one that I have no hesitation in highly recommending.