Synopsis
For centuries, Zeus has punished the gods with a game called the Agon, which turns them mortal for one week, and at the mercy of being hunted by those with godly ambitions. Only a handful of the original Greek gods remain, the rest replaced by the mortals who killed them and ascended.
After her family’s sadistic murder by a rival bloodline, Lore escapes and vows to repay her parents’ sacrifice by doing one thing – surviving. For seven years, she has pushed back dark thoughts of revenge against the man responsible for their murder, a man by the name of Wrath who has attained unimaginable power. Except for one week, every seven years. A week that is fast approaching …
When Lore comes home on the first night of the Agon to find Athena gravely wounded on her doorstep, the goddess offers her an alliance; they have a mutual enemy, after all. But as the world trembles under the force of Wrath – a god with the power to destroy all of humanity – will Lore’s decision to bind her fate with Athena’s come back to haunt her?
Review
“Lore” by Alexandra Bracken immerses readers in a world where ancient gods still walk among mortals, and the threads of mythology weave a dangerous game of revenge and survival. Bracken skilfully blends contemporary settings with classical lore, creating a captivating tale that explores themes of power, vengeance, and the enduring impact of the past on the present.
Set in modern-day New York City, the story revolves around Lore Perseous, who once participated in the Agon—a decennial competition where gods seek mortal champions for a chance at regaining immortality. Now, after years of avoiding the Agon, Lore is thrust back into the deadly game when a childhood friend seeks her help. The novel unfolds as Lore navigates a treacherous world of gods, monsters, and rivalries, where alliances are fleeting, and betrayals are inevitable.
“Lore” masterfully explores the consequences of revenge and the complexities of legacy. Bracken intertwines ancient Greek mythology with a contemporary urban setting, breathing new life into classic tales. Themes of identity, choice, and the enduring bonds of friendship resonate throughout the narrative, adding depth to the character arcs and the overall storytelling.
As a reader, I was drawn to Bracken’s ability to balance action-packed sequences with moments of introspection. Lore’s character is compelling, showcasing resilience and vulnerability in equal measure. The world-building is vivid, and Bracken’s descriptive prose brings the mythological elements to life, making the reader feel both the danger and allure of the gods’ presence.
Bracken’s strengths lie in her ability to seamlessly blend classical mythology with contemporary storytelling. The pacing is well-executed, with the novel maintaining a brisk tempo that keeps the reader engaged. The exploration of moral ambiguity and the consequences of wielding power adds layers to the narrative, creating a nuanced and immersive reading experience.
While “Lore” is a thoroughly engaging read, some readers may find the sheer volume of mythological information a bit overwhelming at times. Additionally, a few secondary characters could have been further developed to enhance their impact on the story, and the ending felt a little rushed.
In the realm of modern retellings of classical mythology, “Lore” stands alongside works like Madeline Miller’s “Circe” and Rick Riordan’s Percy Jackson series. Bracken’s unique approach, with a focus on mortal champions and a high-stakes competition, sets her novel apart, offering a fresh perspective on familiar tales.
“Lore” is recommended for readers who enjoy fast-paced fantasy with a strong mythological foundation. It caters to those who appreciate stories of gods meddling in the affairs of mortals, while also exploring the intricate relationships between characters. Fans of urban fantasy and mythological retellings will find “Lore” to be a captivating addition to the genre.
Alexandra Bracken’s “Lore” is a thrilling journey through a mythic underworld layered with gods, monsters, and mortal champions. With its intricate plot, well-crafted characters, and a modern spin on ancient myths, “Lore” deserves a solid four-star rating. It’s a compelling read that successfully marries the timeless allure of mythology with the urgency of contemporary storytelling.
Rating: ★★★★☆
You can purchase your own copy on Amazon
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