Review of 'Lore Olympus: Volume Two'

She called. He answered. This stunning follow-up to Lore Olympus: Volume One proves that the story of Hades, God of the Underworld, and his beloved Persephone is far from over. It's the same contemporary reimagining that stole your heart the first time, but with even more gossip, drama and, of course, more heat.

#1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • Witness what the gods do after dark in the second volume of a stylish and contemporary reimagining of one of the best-known stories in Greek mythology, featuring a brand-new, exclusive short story from creator Rachel Smythe.

“It’s easy to see why the internet has fallen in love with Lore Olympus. This dazzling interpretation of the classic Greek myths is as charming as it is provocative.”—Marissa Meyer, #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Lunar Chronicles

Persephone was ready to start a new life when she left the mortal realm for Olympus. However, she quickly discovered the dark side of her glamorous new home—from the relatively minor gossip threatening her reputation to a realm-shattering violation of her safety by the conceited Apollo—and she’s struggling to find her footing in the fast-moving realm of the gods. Hades is also off-balance, fighting against his burgeoning feelings for the young goddess of spring while maintaining his lonely rule of the Underworld. As the pair are drawn ever closer, they must untangle the twisted webs of their past and present to build toward a new future.

This edition of Smythe’s original Eisner-winning webcomic Lore Olympus brings Greek mythology into the modern age in a sharply perceptive and romantic graphic novel.

This volume collects episodes 26–49 of the #1 WEBTOON comic Lore Olympus.

Review

Lore Olympus Vol 2 continues to build on the romance between Persephone and Hades in this unique retelling.

Storytelling

I absolutely love this graphic novel. Much of what is in here is not new to me since I am a devoted reader who tunes in every Saturday, but there are bits and pieces that Smythe adds here. Smythe adds content that, unfortunately, did not make the final cut for her weekly segments for various reasons. She clearly knows where she will be taking this story, and the reader sees that. But here, this is almost like the director’s cut.

And I love that about this.

Smythe adds to the story, allowing readers to see more behind the scenes. She explores some of the other Gods in Greek Mythology and how they fit into the story of Hades and Persephone. I love seeing Artemis, Hera, and Minthe. I love seeing how Smythe brings these characters to life. Smythe gives the characters such strong voices and personalities, which is part of why the story is so captivating and addicting.

Artwork

Of course, I can’t conclude this review without discussing the artwork.

Smythe is excellent with the way she can convey the emotions and personalities of her characters through their facial expressions.

And the color is still astounding. Persephone being such a vibrant pink, stands out so wonderfully against the Underworld society. She is like a pomegranate in the dark or a cherry blossom at night. She compliments Hades’ blue coloring so perfectly.

Color means something, and Smythe uses the various meanings of color to bring her characters to life in a beautiful way.

The shading and lining all work together wonderfully to bring to life this fantastic comic.

Final Thoughts

Lore Olympus Vol 2 is a fantastic addition to the Lore Olympus series and is perfect for any fan of the series.

• Writing Quality : 10/10
• Image / Illustration Quality: 10/10
• Character Development : 10/10
• "Couldn't Put It Down"-ness : 10/10
• Intellectual Depth: 10/10
• Originality: 10/10
• Overall Rating: 5 out of 5.

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About the Author

Cynthia Bujnicki graduated from Emerson College with a BA in Writing, Literature and Publishing. She has always loved to read since she was a child. A contributing writer for YA Fantasy Addicts, she is also the Editor-in-Chief for Cyn's Workshop. She lives in sunny South Florida with her husband, son and daughter and their two cats.