As she has with her previous works, Natalie Haynes delivers a well-rounded look at the goddesses of Greek mythology in Divine Might. What sets this book apart is Haynes’s ability to show these goddesses as both powerful and flawed, presenting their complexities in a way that feels authentic and true to their origins. She doesn’t shy away from the darker aspects of their stories while still celebrating their strength, influence, and importance.  

Haynes’s attention to detail is impressive—she includes unique and often overlooked elements from the original myths that many modern retellings miss. This added depth makes each goddess feel more vivid and multifaceted. Beyond that, Haynes also explores how these figures are viewed today, offering fascinating insights into how modern culture interprets and often reimagines them.  

I particularly appreciated how Haynes didn't shy away from Persephone's kidnapping and rape. It's popular now in supposedly "feminist" fiction to turn the kidnapping and race of a teen into a romantic love story. That misrepresentation of the myth undermines the intent of the myth and the experiences of real people in that situation. Thankfully, Haynes honors the story of Demeter and Persephone, along with the stories of several other goddesses.

This book strikes the perfect balance between honoring the past and examining its echoes in the present.