Lore Review

Hello, all!

I grew up obsessed with Greek mythology. Like, obsessed. I would check out D'Aulaires Book of Greek Mythology at least once a week from my library until my Mom finally just bought me my own copy (which I still own and love.) Needless to say, Lore by Alexandra Bracken was a no brainer pick up for me. Big thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the copy!

Pub Date: 1-5-21
YA - Fantasy

Every seven years, the hunt begins. As punishment for a past rebellion, nine Greek gods are forced to participate in the Agon, where they must walk the earth as mortals for a week. If losing their powers wasn't enough, all the while, the gods are being hunted by the descendants of ancient bloodlines, who are eager to kill the gods to take over their powers. Lore Perseous used to have high hopes of becoming a hunter, but those dreams were dashed when her family was brutally murdered. Afterward, she turned her back on everything she knew, and for years has tried to silence the part of herself which longs to take revenge on the one she believes to be responsible.

As the next hunt gets ready to wreak havoc through New York City, Lore is approached by two unlikely participants: her childhood friend, Castor, who Lore believed was dead, and the goddess Athena, who shows up on her doorstep gravely injured. The goddess offers Lore a bargain she can't refuse: if Lore will bind her fate to Athena, then she will get the revenge she desires and a way to end the Agon forever. But Lore quickly discovers her choice to return to the hunt isn't that simple, and there are even bigger forces at play with deadly consequences that could bring all of humanity to its knees.

I was sold on this book right from the get-go, and boy did it deliver! It was non-stop action from the very first page and didn't let up one bit. It was relentless in the best possible way. I loved how the characters and gods were depicted, especially Lore. She was so headstrong and defiant and had such a chip on her shoulder, but was willing to sacrifice all she had to protect the ones she loves. She really felt like one of those heroes from the stories. My only slight issue with this was I did get confused at times because some characters go by a few different names, so it made it a bit hard to keep track of. Also, I sort of wish this wasn't a standalone just so I could get more from this world! Other than that, I thought this was stellar.

Rating: 4/5