Award-winning author transforms Greek myths into feminist comedy that resonates with modern women.
The cursor blinked on the empty document as Gabiann Marin sat in her writing space, contemplating one of mythology’s most misunderstood figures. What if Medusa’s story wasn’t the end, but just the beginning? What if the gorgon sisters refused to accept their fate quietly? That late-night creative spark would eventually transform into “The Medusa Situation,” a literary fiction that turns ancient Greek mythology on its head with wit, wisdom, and a hefty dose of feminist justice.
In a publishing landscape often dominated by formulaic fiction, Marin has carved out a distinctive niche by reimagining classical myth through a contemporary lens, speaking directly to women navigating their own battles for recognition and respect.
When Goddesses Retire to Suburban Life
The genesis of “The Medusa Situation” emerged from Marin’s fascination with the untold stories of mythological women. Published by Clan Destine Press in 2025; the novel opens with the Goddess Hera living in retirement in a suburban semi-detached house — a premise that immediately signals this isn’t your typical mythological retelling.
“Hera noticed the piles of unfolded clothes and yellowing newspapers that filled the family room, the outcome of her continuing war of attrition with Zeus.” Marin writes in her characteristic blend of ancient myth and modern irrelevance. “His seeming inability to do even the simplest chore had been fine while they lived on Olympus. There were hundreds of servants waiting impatiently to scoop up the random dropped grape or mop up the spilled wine from their drunken parties. But here, on the Mortal Realm, there was no one to pick up after them.“
This sharp observation sets the tone for a narrative that doesn’t shy away from calling out the problematic elements of classical mythology, while finding humor in the absurdity of goddesses trying to navigate contemporary life.
The Challenge of Reinventing Ancient Stories
Writing mythological fiction presents unique obstacles. How do you make thousand-year-old characters relevant to modern readers without losing the essence that made their stories endure? Marin faced skepticism from industry professionals who questioned whether there was appetite for comedic mythological fiction targeting mature women.
Her solution was to ground the fantastical elements in recognizably human experiences. Marin places the infamous Helen of Troy on a Jerry Springer type reality television show, demonstrating how victim blaming has not changed that much in two thousand odd years.
Later in the novel, when Prometheus is discussing his unjust eternal punishment with Hera, he is able to find something positive in a horrendous act of perpetual disemboweling. “It’s not too bad.” he tells her.” At least I’m out in the sunshine and fresh air, and the eagle and I have come to a good place in our relationship. Yes, he still rips out my organs, but we often have a nice chat and cup of tea beforehand.”
This realistic yet absurd approach is the defining strength of the novel. “I think we need to be able to embrace absurdity in order to understand the kind of world we are living in now. The Medusa Situation is a myth for modern living – absurd, funny, but, at its heart, a story that deals with contemporary themes and issues, offering new solutions.” Marin says, reflecting on why comedy was so important in the creation of this book. “It was a risk, to take a myth as tragic as that of Medusa and to find the humor in it. But I felt that was how I could say something different, be different, in the way I depicted women, particularly older, often demonized women, in new and empowering ways.”
Australian author Gabiann Marin reveals justice can be a funny thing in her hilarious sequel to the ancient Medusa myth.
Recognition in Australia’s Literary Scene
The gamble paid off spectacularly. “The Medusa Situation” has been shortlisted for multiple prestigious Australian literary awards, including the John Clarke Award for Humour Writing, the Victorian Premier Literary Awards, and the DITMAR for Best Speculative Fiction Novel 2025.
This recognition validates Marin’s approach to blending humor with serious themes of justice and female empowerment. The novel tackles the concept of restorative justice while celebrating the wisdom and capabilities of older women—themes that resonate particularly strongly with readers who feel overlooked by mainstream publishing.
A Seasoned Author’s Perspective
Marin brings considerable experience to her mythological reimagining. With eleven traditionally published books already in the market, plus a background in story development and screenwriting for film and television, she understands the mechanics of compelling narrative construction.
“There is so much going on in The Medusa Situation,” Marin says, “that I had to make sure the structure and story worked for a cozy mystery, a mythological comedy and an adventure story, all in one.”
The result is a fast paced and clever narrative with a diverse cast of gods, goddesses and monsters, multiple twists and a really engrossing mystery, ensuring that readers of all ages and backgrounds can find something to satisfy them. But through it all, Marin remains true to her core purpose, a book about middle aged goddesses who refuse to be silenced or sidelined. Fantastic and realistic representation for powerful older women, which is often missing from contemporary fiction.
Breaking Into American Markets
Despite being published by an Australian press, “The Medusa Situation” has found its way to American readers through Amazon’s digital platform. This accessibility reflects the universal appeal of Marin’s approach to mythological storytelling and the growing demand for fiction that centers mature women as protagonists rather than supporting characters.
Among the glowing reviews many have praised the novel’s ability to balance laugh-out-loud moments with deeper themes about justice, aging, and the value of feminine wisdom in solving complex problems.
The Power of Reimagined Mythology
What sets Marin’s work apart in the crowded mythological fiction market is her commitment to examining the original stories through a feminist lens without sacrificing entertainment value. By making her goddesses middle-aged and dealing with contemporary challenges, she creates space for readers who rarely see themselves reflected as the heroes of their own stories.
The novel’s treatment of Medusa — historically portrayed as a monster to be defeated — as a character deserving justice and restoration, offers a powerful metaphor for how society treats women who have been victimized or marginalized.
Connecting With Contemporary Readers
Through her Facebook author page and LinkedIn presence, Marin maintains connections with readers who appreciate her blend of classical learning and contemporary wit. She also works as a developmental editor, writing coach and script and story consultant for established and emerging authors and publishing companies across the globe. Her engagement with the writing community reflects her understanding that authors today must be both creators and community supporters.
If you’re seeking fiction that combines mythological adventure with sharp social commentary and genuine humor, “The Medusa Situation” offers exactly that rare combination. Marin has created a story that honors the power of ancient myths while making them highly relevant to modern readers navigating their own quests for justice and recognition.
About Gabiann Marin
Gabiann Marin is an accomplished Australian author, with several US and international awards and nominations for her writing in fiction and media. Through her business Three Muses Creative, Marin offers writing courses, editorial services, and story development consultation. Connect with her on Facebook and LinkedIn to follow her latest projects and writing insights.
