Enter A Thrilling World of Gods and Mortals.
As a lover of mythology and epic tales, The Games Gods Play by Abigail Owen captivated me from the very first page. The premise—a world where gods actively influence mortals through a deadly game—promised a thrilling journey filled with danger, romance, and divine drama. And it delivered. Owen’s blend of Greek mythology, intricate world-building, and engaging characters makes this novel a must-read for fans of fantasy and romance alike. This book kept me on the edge of my seat, making it impossible to put down. I stayed up late, desperate to finish it, while also wanting to savor every moment.
Plot Summary:
The story centers around Lyra Keres, a mortal cursed by Zeus and sold to the Order of Thieves at a young age to pay off her parent’s debt. Her life has been anything but easy, and she’s grown up friendless, without love, and constantly under the gods’ oppressive influence. On the eve of the Crucible—a once-in-a-century event where gods pit mortals against each other in a series of deadly labors—Lyra’s fate takes an unexpected turn. She encounters Hades, the mysterious and powerful God of the Underworld. For reasons unknown, Hades, who has never participated in the Crucible, chooses Lyra as his champion.
The stakes couldn’t be higher. If Lyra wins, Hades promises to lift her curse. But if she loses, death is inevitable. The Crucible is a brutal contest devised by the gods to entertain themselves, with 13 champions representing different gods vying to survive 12 near-impossible labors. The god whose champion wins is crowned King of the Gods, and the mortal champion earns a boon and riches for their family. As the story unfolds, the contest becomes more than just a game—it’s a battle for survival, power, and destiny.
Characters:
Lyra is the heart and soul of The Games Gods Play. From the moment we meet her, it’s impossible not to root for her. She’s fierce, independent, and sharp-tongued, especially when dealing with the gods. Her resilience in the face of overwhelming odds is both inspiring and heartbreaking. Watching her growth, from a mortal pawn in the gods’ game to someone who may be capable of changing the balance of power, was thrilling.
Then there’s Hades—the morally gray, enigmatic God of the Underworld. His motives are unclear, and he plays his cards close to his chest. Yet, his dynamic with Lyra is electric. The tension between them, both romantic and strategic, kept me turning the pages. He’s a character with depth, and his ruthlessness is matched only by his complexity. The chemistry between Lyra and Hades adds layers of intrigue to the narrative, elevating it beyond a simple fantasy adventure.
Other characters, including the arrogant gods and fierce champions, bring their own flavor to the story. Cerberus, Hades’ loyal companion, is a standout character who, despite being a three-headed dog, offers a surprising amount of levity and loyalty. Each god has their own agenda, and the alliances and betrayals that unfold make it impossible to predict what will happen next.
Themes:
At the core of The Games Gods Play is the exploration of fate versus free will. Lyra’s journey is a struggle for agency in a world dominated by the whims of the gods. Throughout the book, she faces the question: Can she shape her own destiny, or is she doomed to be a pawn in the gods’ game? This theme resonates deeply, as it mirrors the human experience of grappling with control over our own lives.
Ambition is another key theme. The gods are driven by their desire for power and dominance, often at the expense of mortals. The story becomes a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked ambition—both for the gods and for Lyra, whose own desires put her at odds with the beings controlling the Crucible.
World-Building:
Abigail Owen’s world-building in this book is exceptional. From the majestic peaks of Olympus to the gritty streets of the mortal realm, every scene is richly detailed and immersive. The gods’ influence is felt everywhere, and their interactions with the mortal world are both thrilling and terrifying. Owen’s version of Greek mythology has a modern twist that sets it apart from traditional retellings. The gods here are not distant beings—they’re active participants in the world, shaping events with their divine powers.
The 12 labors of the Crucible are brilliantly crafted, each one testing not only the champions’ physical strength but also their cunning and emotional resilience. The settings for these labors range from grand temples to dangerous wildernesses, adding to the sense of peril and adventure.
Writing Style:
Owen’s writing is lyrical and captivating, balancing action, emotion, and suspense with ease. Her descriptions are vivid, and her pacing is flawless, keeping readers engaged without overwhelming them with too much information at once. She strikes a perfect balance between dialogue and narrative, and her characters’ emotional depth draws you into their world.
What makes The Games Gods Play stand out is the emotional weight Owen weaves into the story. Yes, it’s an epic fantasy with gods, magic, and high stakes, but it’s also a story about survival, sacrifice, and what it means to fight for freedom. Lyra’s internal struggles and her connection with Hades add a layer of vulnerability that makes the story even more compelling.
Personal Reflection:
As I read The Games Gods Play, I couldn’t help but reflect on the power dynamics between gods and mortals and the question of free will. The story explores the fine line between being a pawn in someone else’s game and seizing control of your own destiny. It made me think about the choices we make in our own lives—how much is predetermined, and how much can we control?
The romance between Lyra and Hades, while slow-burning, added a beautiful complexity to the story. Their connection felt real and grounded, despite the fantastical setting, and I found myself invested not just in the outcome of the Crucible but in their relationship as well.
The Games Gods Play is a breathtaking, thrilling journey through a world where gods and mortals collide. Abigail Owen has crafted a story that is equal parts action-packed fantasy and emotionally charged romance. The themes of power, fate, and ambition are skillfully woven into the plot, making it a book that stays with you long after you’ve turned the final page.
If you’re a fan of mythological retellings, epic battles, and complex romances, this book is a must-read. With its cliffhanger ending, I’m already eagerly awaiting the next installment to see where Lyra and Hades’ journey takes them. Whether you’re a fan of Percy Jackson or The Hunger Games, The Games Gods Play will leave you hooked.
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Happy Reading,
Love,
Emma
EmmaCohan.com 