[ARC Review] Neon Gods by Katee Robert

Neon Gods by Katee Robert is an intense, sexual voyage into a modern day retelling of the Hades and Persephone myth.

Ever since her mother was voted the new Demeter, Persephone and her sisters have been society darlings: smiling and waving to the paparazzi, always dolled up. But when Persephone is given to the violent Zeus to be his next bride, Persephone sees no other option but to run. Broken down and desperate, Persephone crosses the River Styx only to run into the arms of the one person she was raised to believe is a myth.

Hades has kept to his side of the river for years, abiding by the rules set in place by all thirteen members of the council that rules Olympus. He'll stick to the lower city as long as Zeus stays on the upper side. But when Zeus' new fiancée crosses the River Styx and Zeus demands Hades return her, Hades sees his chance at revenge.

While Persephone wants safety and Hades wants revenge, neither expects to find understanding, respect, and even love in each other's arms.

Neon Gods is a dark, modern look at Hades and Persephone. Set in the city of Olympus, Hades and Zeus run their parts of the city like rival mafias, and most of the other leaders, like Demeter, Ares, and Poseidon, are all on Zeus' side. I loved the set up and background that Katee Robert gave this story. Neon Gods might feature the old Greek gods, but readers will not have to be familiar with even the Hades and Persephone story to be able to enjoy this story. Many Hades and Persephone retellings aren't truly modern but Neon Gods certainly is, featuring smart phones and video calls. I loved that Persephone is not the wilting flower of so many retellings; she is strong and brave and knows exactly what she wants and needs from Hades. There's also a darkness to the sex scenes, something both Hades and Persephone need, that takes Neon Gods to the next level. And while there is no shortage of sex scenes, Katee Robert makes sure they count; nothing feels thrown in or gratuitous.

Neon Gods is a fantastic modern reimaging of the Hades and Persephone myth with something for fans of Greek lore, romance, and strong, intelligent female leads.

A huge thank you to Sourcebooks Casablanca and Netgalley for the chance to read Neon Gods in advance of its release date.