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When it comes to books, the world is full of all kinds of genres. From heart-pounding thrillers and mysteries to epic romances, fantasies filled with magic to stories packed with adventure, there are endless options—each one letting you escape from reality and explore new worlds. Whether you’re looking for comfort, excitement, knowledge or inspiration, there’s always a story waiting to draw you in. Among these many genres, Greek mythology stands out for its legendary heroes and timeless tales. And if you're unsure where to begin, don’t worry; we’ve gathered 44 of the best Greek mythology books of all time, recommended by librarians, to help you dive right in.Some of the books are classics, and some may be stories you're not as familiar with, but librarians Liz Fambrough and Jessica Scott Fitzpatrick say they're all worth adding to your TBR (To Be Read) list. They’ll bring you face-to-face with Greek gods and goddesses, legendary heroes and mythical creatures, making the ancient world come alive—all without leaving the comfort of your home.So, what are you waiting for? Don’t let these legendary tales remain mere myths. Dive into the list of the best books about Greek mythology below and see which story you're drawn to. Your next epic adventure is just a page away.Related: The 19 Best Books on Kindle Unlimited Right Now, According to Librarians
We all know what Greek myths are, most likely. But what does the genre of Greek mythology books entail?"A great Greek mythology book captures the magic of the original myths while making them feel fresh and relevant," Scott Fitzpatrick explains.Fambrough agrees, adding that even if the book is set in ancient times, they're able to bring these Greek myths alive today and transport you into classic tales. "Whether it is a retelling of an original story or inspired by a myth, the best ones make ancient characters feel vividly modern and can have Greek gods who are flawed, heroes who are conflicted and choices that echo the struggles we still face today," she shares. "Greek mythology books stand apart because they blend adventure, tragedy, love and moral lessons all in one sweeping narrative universe. Overall, they remind readers that even in fantastical settings, the themes of power, pride, loyalty and destiny are deeply human."Related: The 116 Best Kids' Books of All Time
44 Best Greek Mythology Books of All Time, According to Librarians
1. 'Percy Jackson and The Lightning Thief' by Rick Riordan
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"This is an all-time favorite of mine," shares Fambrough. "Percy Jackson thinks he’s just a regular kid… until he discovers he’s a demigod and the Greek gods are very real. Now he has ten days to find Zeus’s stolen lightning bolt before a war erupts that could destroy the world.Scott Fitzpatrick also picks this as one of the best Greek mythology books of all time and says you can't go wrong with this classic."I love that this book lets you join Percy Jackson as he discovers his divine heritage and races to stop a war among the gods," she adds.
2. 'Circe' by Madeline Miller
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"This is a lush, feminist retelling of a Greek myth," Scott Fitzpatrick explains. "In short, after being exiled to a lonely island, Circe discovers her power as a witch and defies gods and men alike in this book."Fambrough makes this pick as well. "While there, she must face gods, monsters and her own strength to decide the woman she will become," she adds.
3. 'The Song of Achilles' by Madeline Miller
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You might have already seen this gut-wrenchingly beautiful story all over BookTok. But if you haven't, it's at the top of one of our librarians' lists of Greek mythology books to read. "In this story, Patroclus and Achilles grow from unlikely friends to legendary partners as their bond deepens against the rising tide of war," Fambrough says. "When destiny calls Achilles to Troy, both must face the heartbreaking cost of greatness and love."
4. 'Lore' by Alexandra Bracken
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Want a book that will keep you on your toes? This is it."Every seven years, Greek gods become mortal, and hunters stalk them for power," Scott Fitzpatrick shares. "In this story, Lore thought she escaped this deadly game, until it pulls her back in."
5. 'The Forgotten Goddess' by Rebekah Sinclair
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If you like mythology-inspired fantasy, The Forgotten Goddess is another pick our experts say is worth adding to your TBR because it brings the gods of Greek myth into a modern, dangerous world where nothing is certain, and the stakes are huge.The story follows Rhea, a woman with hidden elemental powers who learns that the old myths are real: gods walk the earth, and the god of war is hunting her. As she uncovers secrets about her past, she must decide whether to flee or embrace her destiny and fight for the world’s future.
6. 'Lovely War' by Julie Berry
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"In Lovely War, you have two couples who fall in love during World War I, but their stories are anything but ordinary because the goddess Aphrodite herself is telling them," Fambrough shares. "Through danger, heartbreak and hope, she proves why love is worth fighting for."
7. 'A Thousand Ships' by Natalie Haynes
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You may be familiar with this tale, but the beauty of this book is that it reveals stories you may not know about.
"You'll see that the Trojan War wasn’t just fought by men in this book. Instead, you'll hear the untold stories of women whose lives were shattered and reshaped by the conflict," Scott Fitzpatrick says.
8. 'The Silence of the Girls' by Pat Barker
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This happens to be one of Scott Fitzpatrick's favorite books, and we can see why."This haunting novel gives voice to the women silenced by war," she notes. "Through Briseis’ eyes, the glory of Achilles becomes something darker."
9. 'Daughter of Sparta' by Claire M. Andrews
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What's this one about? "When the gods steal the world’s power, a fierce Spartan girl must fight to restore balance in this story," Scott Fitzpatrick states. "It's a mythology meets high-stakes adventure."
10. 'Antigoddess' by Kendare Blake
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If you're a fan of survival books, you may like this one."In this story, the gods are dying, and their end is brutal. To survive, Athena and Hermes must seek a mortal girl who holds the key to their fate," Scott Fitzpatrick explains.
11. 'Divine Rivals' by Rebecca Ross
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"In this book, Iris writes letters to her missing brother, never expecting them to land in the hands of her biggest rival," Fambrough says. "However, as the war of the gods draws them closer, their connection becomes a lifeline neither can afford to lose."
12. 'The Iliad' by Homer
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If you enjoy mythology and you're putting together a list of books, our experts say you can't forget this classic that centers on the wrath of Achilles during the Trojan War. It’s both a sweeping mythic adventure and a powerful exploration of loyalty, pride, and what it means to be heroic.And why not try one of the newest and most critically acclaimed translations by Emily Wilson? Fans of the classic epic poem can't get enough of it, with one reviewer writing, "This translation does not disappoint," and that it's "more clearly poetic" than other versions out there, "with what are probably better translation choices..."
13. 'Percy Jackson’s Greek Gods' by Rick Riordan
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Calling all Percy Jackson fans, you can't pass this one up."I love how Percy’s snarky, hilarious take on Greek mythology makes learning about the gods feel like hanging out with your funniest friend when you read this book," Scott Fitzpatrick tells Parade.
14. 'The Penelopiad' by Margaret Atwood
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If you've ever wanted to know Penelope's story—Odysseus's wife in The Odyssey—our experts say you will in this book."Penelope finally tells her side of the story, which is sharp, witty and full of secrets from the women who waited while Odysseus wandered," Scott Fitzpatrick teases.
15. 'The Games Gods Play' by Abigail Owen
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This story is all about empowerment and has a bit of Hunger Games feel to it."When a mortal girl is chosen to compete in the deadly Immortals Game, she becomes the unexpected pawn in a battle of gods. But as alliances shift and sparks fly, she discovers she might be far more powerful, and far more dangerous, than anyone guessed," Fambrough teases.
16. 'Pandora' by Susan Stokes-Chapman
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If the name of this book stands out to you, then Scott Fitzpatrick says it's a good choice."A mysterious Greek vase, a dark secret and a young woman’s ambition collide in this atmospheric tale of art and myth," she shares.
17. 'A Touch of Darkness' by Scarlett St. Clair
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If you like Persephone, Fambrough says you'll enjoy this book."In this book, Persephone thinks she’s just a mortal trying to survive in the mortal world, until she strikes a deal with Hades and discovers her own powers are far more dangerous than she knew," she tells Parade. "As she’s pulled deeper into his realm, desire and destiny collide in a game neither can walk away from."
18. 'The Last Olympian' by Rick Riordan
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Those who love Percy Jackson are most likely well-acquainted with this book, since it's the fifth and final in his book series. It's an epic finale for this set of books."As Kronos leads a full-scale assault on New York City, Percy faces his final prophecy and the battle that will decide the fate of the gods," Fambrough says. "With the world on the brink, he must risk everything for the heroes who stand beside him."
19. 'Mythos: The Greek Myths Retold' by Stephen Fry
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When it comes to Greek myths, our experts say this is a must-read."In this book, you'll find Greek myths as you’ve never heard them, funny, clever and utterly captivating," Scott Fitzpatrick shares.
20. 'Athena's Child' by Hannah Lynn
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This Medusa-inspired book is a must-read, according to Fambrough."Medusa’s story is retold with raw emotion in this book as she’s caught between the wrath of gods and the cruelty of mortals," she reveals. "In a world determined to twist her fate, her transformation becomes a haunting testimony to survival and strength."Related: Which Greek Goddess Represents Your Birth Month, Per Experts
21. 'No Friend to This House' by Natalie Haynes
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"The women of Greek myth finally get to speak in this book, reclaiming their stories from the heroes who silenced them," Fambrough explains. "Through wit, fury and unforgettable voices, they expose the truth behind the legends you thought you knew."
22. 'Heroes: Mortals and Monsters, Quests and Adventures' by Stephen Fry
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Talk about a book filled with heroes!"In this story, you'll meet the mortals who dared to challenge gods and monsters, Stephen Fry brings Greek heroes to life with humor and heart," Scott Fitzpatrick reveals.
23. 'Troy' by Stephen Fry
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If you're a Greek mythology fan, then chances are you know this story. So, why's it a good read?"Fry makes ancient battles feel thrillingly modern," Scott Fitzpatrick shares. "It's about the epic Trojan War, but retold with wit and drama."
24. 'Starcrossed' by Josephine Angelini
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When it comes to books that mix modern life with ancient Greek legends, our experts say this book does just that. Starcrossed combines myth, romance and suspense in a fast-paced, addictive read.The story follows Helen Hamilton, an ordinary girl who discovers she’s part of an ancient cycle tied to the Trojan War. When she meets Lucas Delos, their connection sparks both powerful abilities and a dangerous, fated rivalry.
25. 'Ariadne' by Jennifer Saint
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If you love the myth of Theseus, you'll love this new perspective from Ariadne, Princess of Crete."This is a lyrical story of love, betrayal and resilience," Scott Fitzpatrick tells Parade. "In it, Ariadne helps Theseus slay the Minotaur, but what happens after the hero sails away?"
26. 'Elektra' by Jennifer Saint
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Looking for a book full of girl power? Check this one out."This book follows three women, Elektra, Clytemnestra and Cassandra, as they navigate vengeance and prophecy in a world ruled by gods and men," Scott Fitzpatrick says.
27. 'Stone Blind' by Natalie Haynes
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If you love reading about Medusa, you'll love reading this book."This fierce retelling gives her story the justice it deserves," Scott Fitzpatrick notes. "You'll see that Medusa isn’t just a monster, she’s a girl cursed by gods."
28. 'Hekate: The Witch' by Nikita Gill
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"From the depths of the Underworld to the edges of mortal fear, Hekate rises as a guide for the lost and a challenger of the gods. Her voice cuts through history, revealing what it truly means to wield ancient magic," Fambrough shares about this story.
29. 'The Goddess Test' by Aimée Carter
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"This is a modern twist on a Greek myth with romance and danger," Scott Fitzpatrick shares. "It's all about if passing a test meant you would become a goddess and marry Hades."
30. 'The Shadow of Perseus' by Claire Heywood
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"Perseus’ legend hides the voices of women, and this retelling reveals the truth behind the hero’s shadow, which makes it so good," Scott Fitzpatrick says.
31. 'Moon Riders' by Theresa Tomlinson
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"When Myrina joins the legendary Moon Riders (Amazons sworn to protect the innocent), she's pulled into the turbulent world of Troy," Fambrough shares about the book's plot. "However, as war brews, she must choose between loyalty, courage and the destiny she never imagined."
32. 'The Odyssey' by Homer
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Fambrough notes that this story is a classic, of course."After the fall of Troy, Odysseus faces monsters, magic and the wrath of the gods on his perilous journey home in this tale," she says. "His epic adventure reveals that the greatest battles are often fought within the human heart."Related: 222 Best Books of All Time That Deserve a Spot on Your Bookshelf, With Picks from Bestselling Authors and Indie Booksellers
33. 'The Son of Neptune' by Rick Riordan
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After the Percy Jackson series ended, the world those books created lived on in Riordan's subsequent series, Heroes of Olympus. The Son of Neptune is the second book in this series, and even though these books focus on the Roman gods, this one still focuses on our favorite son of Poseidon, Percy Jackson."In this Rick Riordan book, Percy arrives at Camp Jupiter to find a whole new world of Roman demigods, though he has no memories and only a few shaky allies, so to survive the coming war, he must reclaim who he is and who he's meant to become," explains Fambrough.
34. 'Clytemnestra' by Costanza Casati
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"In this book, Clytemnestra rises from princess to queen in a world ruled by violence, betrayal and gods who delight in cruelty," Fambrough says. "When her family is torn apart, she becomes a force powerful enough to challenge fate itself.
35. 'Galatea' by Madeline Miller
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Our librarians already mentioned two other works by Madeline Miller above, and this one is just as great. A major difference, though, is that this is a short story instead of a full novel."In this book, you'll see how Galatea was sculpted to obey, but she awakens with a mind and is far stronger than the man who created her," Fambroug shares. "As her freedom becomes a threat, she must find a way to break the chains of both marble and myth."
36. 'Neon Gods' by Katee Robert
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"When Persophone flees an arranged marriage in this tale, she finds refuge in the shadowy realm of Hades, who offers her a deal she can't resist," Fambroug reveals. "Their dangerous attraction ignites a modern, seductive retelling of the myth you thought you knew."This is definitely a book for readers who love a lot of spice in their romance novels. Don't say we didn't warn you!
37. 'Psyche and Eros' by Luna McNamara
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This book is a page turner, says Fambrough."This is the story of a mortal girl destined for greatness and a god cursed by prophecy find themselves bound together in a love neither sought. To survive the wrath of Olympus, they must defy fate, the gods, and even their own fears," she explains.
38. 'Medusa' by Jessie Burton
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Want another book to read that focuses on Medua? Our experts share that this is a reimagining of the myth of Medusa that is told from her own point of view.
39. 'Hera' by Jennifer Saint
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Fambrough says Hera's story is finally told on her own terms in this book. "This story reveals a goddess shaped not by jealousy, but by power, strategy and survival," she explains. "As she fights to protect Olympus, the truth behind the queen of the gods comes sharply into focus."
40. 'Lore Olympus' by Rachel Smythe
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Our experts say this is a modern retelling of Greek mythology, primarily focusing on the story of Hades and Persephone. And the love story between these versions of these classic characters is one for the books.This started off as an original story on WebToon and gained immense popularity for its unique art style and contemporary storytelling. What was once online is now a story that spans over several volumes.
41. 'Where Darkness Bloomed' by K.D. Stark
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Not sure if you want to read this book? Well, Fambrough says if you like edgier stories, you'll probably enjoy it."In a small town plagued by violent winds and darker secrets, four girls begin to question the eerie disappearance of their mothers. The truth they uncover is as dangerous as the storm itself," she shares.
42. 'The House of Hades' by Rick Riordan
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This is the fourth book in the Heroes of Olympus series."In this book, Percy and Annabeth must survive the terrifying depths of Tartarus while their friends race to close the Doors of Death," Fambrough shares. "Every step brings new monsters, impossible choices and the fate of the world hanging in the balance."
43. 'The Children of Jocasta' by Natalie Haynes
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"This is the story of Jocasta and her daughter Ismene," Fambroug says. "It tells the true story behind the Theban tragedies, far beyond the version dominated by Oedipus and the men around him. Their voices reveal a city built on secrets, sacrifice, and the strength of women."
44. 'Atalanta' by Jennifer Saint
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According to our experts, this novel reimagines the story of the legendary Greek heroine Atalanta and gives a fresh perspective on her life and struggles in the male-dominated world of Greek mythology.Up Next:
Related: 25 Best Book Releases Coming in December, According to Librarians
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Liz Fambrough is a librarian in Texas.Jessica Scott Fitzpatrick is an award-winning librarian and author in Texas.Hence then, the article about the 44 best greek mythology books of all time according to librarians was published today ( ) and is available on Parade ( Saudi Arabia ) The editorial team at PressBee has edited and verified it, and it may have been modified, fully republished, or quoted. You can read and follow the updates of this news or article from its original source.
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