Review of Rachel Smythe’s Lore Olympus: Volume One

Lore Olympus: Volume One by Rachel Smythe

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Note to self: If you’re going to pick up an impulse book, make sure the entire series is already published. (Or have you forgotten the pickle you got into when your sister recommended a certain manga series that now only publishes a new volume once a year?)

Ms. Smythe deserves a standing ovation. Plenty of authors use the Greek myths for inspiration, envisioning new ways to tackle the familiar stories. But no one’s approached a retelling like this. (And, for the record, no, I haven’t seen the Webtoon) The world’s wholly new and yet utterly believable for the original mythos at the same time. It’s genius! Rather than muttering under my breath about discrepancies, I found myself sinking into a new concept – and loving it.

The same application falls onto the characters. You see everyone in a fresh light (and, let’s face it, if you know anything about the gods and goddesses, it’s challenging to find a new angle!). The convoluted relationships take on new dimensions that feel genuine. And her handling of the various interactions wrenches your deepest emotions.

Honestly, I can’t wait for the next volume. (Curse you, publishers!)

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