Talk about another book TikTok made me read. And I’m so happy that they did because I devoured Neon Gods in a matter of days. I am a HUGE fan of Persephone – she’s my favorite Greek figure – and so I knew I had to read this one. Keep reading this book review for my full thoughts.
Summary
Society darling Persephone Dimitriou plans to flee the ultra-modern city of Olympus and start over far from the backstabbing politics of the Thirteen Houses. But all that’s ripped away when her mother ambushes her with an engagement to Zeus, the dangerous power behind their glittering city’s dark facade.
With no options left, Persephone flees to the forbidden undercity and makes a devil’s bargain with a man she once believed a myth… a man who awakens her to a world she never knew existed.
Hades has spent his life in the shadows, and he has no intention of stepping into the light. But when he finds that Persephone can offer a little slice of the revenge he’s spent years craving, it’s all the excuse he needs to help her—for a price. Yet every breathless night spent tangled together has given Hades a taste for Persephone, and he’ll go to war with Olympus itself to keep her close…
Review
The hype for Neon Gods is unreal. For a consistent month or so, I would see at least one TikTok about it. And so I decided when I was home to reward myself with this one. And I am so glad I did. What I thought I was reading was going to be a supremely dark broody retelling. While there is definitely something dark and sinister, sizzling and tantalizing, Neon Gods was also full of grumpy characters and badass women. The banter in Neon Gods was *chefs kiss*.
That fierce protective nature which is paired with spicy banter and a search for independence? Count me in. Both Persephone and Hades were characters I truly enjoyed on their own. Persephone who is such a fabulous character who just needs space to grow and express herself. Watching her character development was a pure delight. Combine with Hades’ protective nature and the demons he has to fight to come into the light.
Being dual POV in Neon Gods was a brilliant move. It allows us to witness what our characters will do for the ones they love against a world of power games and those who only care about ascension. With dual POV I love watching the characters get to know each other – seeing inside their hearts as they witness things they don’t necessarily perceive. Neon Gods is about choices. About not trading one cage for another and the value in loyalty freely given.
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About the powers we see, hide behind, and exert. I totally ship both of them, the ways they are able to truly see one another. If you’ve been on the fence about reading it, and you love the premise, just take the dive! Find Neon Gods on Goodreads, Amazon, Indiebound, Bookshop.org & The Book Depository.