Book Review | Neon Gods
- Wyvness
- Sep 22, 2023
- 3 min read
A Modern Mythic Masterpiece that Delves into Darkness and Desire.
Neon Gods by Katee Robert
Publication Date: June 1, 2021
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca
Read Date: September 10, 2023
Genre: Fantasy Romance
Pages: 380 Stars: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Neon Gods, a modern retelling of the classic Hades and Persephone myth, is a spellbinding journey through the shadows of Olympus. Katee Roberts crafts a world where the line between good and evil blurs, and the allure of darkness beckons with a seductive charm.
Synopsis
In the futuristic city of Olympus, Persephone Dimitriou, a society darling, is thrust into an engagement with Zeus, a powerful and treacherous figure. This engagement threatens to shackle her to a life she despises, filled with political machinations and cruelty. Desperate to escape, Persephone flees to the forbidden undercity and makes a fateful bargain with a man she once believed to be a myth – Hades, the enigmatic ruler of the underworld.
Hades, a figure of shadow and secrets, has lived his life in the dark, far from the glittering façade of Olympus. He finds himself intrigued by Persephone's fiery spirit and the opportunity for revenge she offers. Their bargain is simple yet profound: for three months, Persephone will belong to Hades, sharing his bed to ensure she returns to Olympus as a "ruined" woman, thus thwarting Zeus's cruel plans.
Review
Neon Gods opens with an unexpected engagement party that shatters Persephone's dreams of freedom. Her mother's ruthless ambition leaves her with no choice but to accept the proposal from Zeus, a man feared by all. As she tries to escape her fate, she stumbles upon the forbidden river Styx, and a rash decision leads her into the depths of the underworld, where she encounters the man she once thought was a myth - Hades.
The world-building in Neon Gods is nothing short of breath-taking. Katee Roberts crafts Olympus and the underworld with meticulous detail, allowing readers to immerse themselves in this dark and decadent universe. The contrast between the glittering upper city and the shadowy depths of the underworld is palpable, creating a vivid backdrop for the unfolding drama.
The characters, too, are a highlight of this story. Persephone is not a damsel in distress but a woman of determination and strength. She's unafraid to challenge the status quo and stand up for what she believes in. Hades, on the other hand, is a complex figure who defies the stereotypical portrayal of his character. His layers are peeled back as the story progresses, revealing a multifaceted personality that is both enigmatic and compelling.
The slow-burning romance between Persephone and Hades is a central pillar of the narrative, and it's executed with finesse. Their interactions sizzle with tension and desire, and their chemistry leaps off the page. The development of their relationship is a testament to Katee Roberts' skill in crafting engaging and multifaceted characters.
Neon Gods is not merely a romance; it's a thrilling adventure filled with political intrigue, secrets, and hidden agendas. As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that Olympus is rife with corruption and power struggles, and Persephone and Hades find themselves entangled in a web of deceit that threatens to engulf them both.
The pacing of the story is near-perfect, with each chapter revealing new layers of complexity and intrigue. The balance between romance and plot-driven elements is expertly maintained, ensuring that readers remain engrossed from start to finish.
As the first book in the Dark Olympus series, Neon Gods sets a high bar for what's to come. It leaves readers eagerly anticipating the next instalment while providing a satisfying conclusion to the initial arc of Persephone and Hades' story.
In summary, Neon Gods is a captivating and beautifully crafted retelling of a timeless myth. Katee Roberts' prose is evocative, her characters are multifaceted, and the world she creates is immersive. If you're a fan of romance, mythology, and stories that challenge traditional narratives, Neon Gods is a must-read. It's a journey into darkness that ultimately finds its own luminous beauty.
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