Review of Rachel Smythe’s LORE OLYMPUS: VOLUME TWO

Lore Olympus: Volume Two by Rachel Smythe

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Ms. Smythe continues to weave the relationships and narratives of the mythological figures together into a dramatic (and hilarious) community that feels authentic and realistic. Every word adds additional layers to the characters while reinforcing the histories and tales you know so well. (Or maybe you don’t – I suppose it depends on your background)

In Volume One, I worried Persephone might remain fragile and painfully innocent throughout the story. But she has a backbone and bite to her, and it’s a delight to see it emerge. There’s a balance between ignorant girl from the country struggling to find her place in a ruthless city and woman discovering her place in the world. Ms. Smythe strikes the perfect chord. It makes her an approachable and empathetic character in a way, say, Artemis does not.

The tangled histories continue to emerge, pitting everyone on a massive chess board (yes, pun intended) with complicated rules beyond the ordinary. There’s always more to the story, leaving you guessing, which is exactly what you WANT from an epic of this scale. And the pockets of humor appear in precise moments to break the tension and give the reader a chance to breathe. (Though I dare say Cereberus steals the show)

Ms. Smythe has created a work to rival the original Greek and Roman storytellers. And it’s only my fiendish need to touch and turn pages that prevents me from rushing out and purchasing a Webtoons subscription. (And the self-preservation of needing to sleep)

View all my reviews

Author: Andria Kennedy

I speak the thoughts rattling around in my brain, sharing topics I think other people want and should hear (or are afraid to talk about themselves). I bring my personality and quirky state of mind to everything I write; serious topics shouldn't be devoid of humor. That includes my blog and freelance work (part of my charm). I've been writing for as long as I can remember. It's a source of solace and enjoyment for me. I'm lucky enough to call what I love my career - so it's NOT work! I live in Virginia with the Minions (four cats and a Greyhound) and my wonderful husband, who ensures I stay fed - no cereal for dinner - and as close to sane as I can get.

Join the Conversation