Hope’s world doesn’t have room for heroes. She barely has time for schoolwork, swim team, and taking care of her ailing mother. But when she’s invited to a mysterious tournament, which promises to make her deepest wish come true, the all-powerful hosts won’t take no for an answer.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review from Netgalley. I was drawn to this book by the cover and the title. The cover is unique among other books I've read in this genre so far this year. It's odd to see a full body cover or even any character on a cover anymore. The title was also interesting as it clearly referenced greek myths. While I'm partial to Roman myths ( as we've discussed on this blog before ) I was also excited to see what this author had to offer to the genre.
Overall, I thought this plot was a bit derivative of other Greek-myth based stories. In fact, it's the second or third I've read so far this year to circle around this motif. While there were some twists to some parts of the plot that made it different from others in the genre, most of the plot points were predictable. While I was entertained, I never felt completely invested in this book as I have others so far this year.
Hope was a great character for this quintessential "Hero's Journey". She's simultaneously reluctant and eager. She's relatable but there's something "special" about her. I found her a bit cold and difficult to connect with at the beginning of the story, but definitely warmed up to her as the plot progressed. Her chemistry with her love interest with other characters was interesting, but, most like the plot, predictable as the books continued on.
What I appreciated most about this book, especially when considering the genre, was the setting. While there are many books about the Greek Gods, how many actually take place on the Greek God home turf, Mount Olympus? I'm sure some diligent readers of the genre could correct me, but I felt, as only a recreational reader, that the change of scenery was much appreciated. I also enjoyed the references to lesser known Gods and Demigods that you don't see quite as often in popular literature. It's clear the author did her research and is invested in the background of the book. Well done!
Olympian Challenger is the first book in it's series. It is a fun, entertaining story with a fairly typical hero's journey plot line and relatable but normal narrator. Fans of the genre will enjoy the unique elements of the story, including the setting and the diversity of the characters. As a more recreational read of Greek Myth-based novels, I enjoyed the book but found it predictable.