Jessica Jones meets These Violent Delights in this Greek myth infused, YA fantasy from debut author Kika Hatzopoulou. I loved how deftly she weaves the complex ties of fate, family and the influence of power —which had me utterly glued to my seat and desperate for more.

The gritty, mystery noir vibes were fabulously strong (if you love the darker tone of Jessica Jones or The Watchmen then you’ll probably really enjoy this.) And along-with our cast of morally ambiguous (but utterly endearing) characters, really helped to bring the richly layered narrative to life. 

I was especially impressed with the depth and emotion explored in protagonist Io, her complicated relationship with sisters (Ava and Thais) as well as her powers as a cutter. And ethical quandaries that seem to spring from those abilities (like altering the personal preferences and emotional ties that can affect someone’s future, or even cut their life short.) 

It’s a dilemma I found endlessly fascinating, especially in comparison to the way other characters we meet choose to use their abilities (lackadaisical and without thought to the damage they may inflict.) 

I also really liked that despite the discrimination she often faces, Io is still one of the most compassionate characters we meet. Willing to risk her own safety (and career) to get justice for people society has deemed “unworthy.” I pretty much rooted for her from the start, openly defying the advice of everyone around her. 

And of course, I have to mention the slow burn intensity of her growing dynamics with gang member, Edei (who she happens to share a fate thread with.) Their interactions were breathtaking and really captured the emotional essence of our characters, much like Homer and Ovid but for a modern audience. 

I don’t want to spoil anything so I won’t go into too much detail, but it was ka pacy, plot twisty and thoroughly immersive read that really delves into the relatable (and very human) struggles that modern Societies as a whole, face (ie: class inequality and racism.) 

Honestly, each consecutive plot reveal had me even more emotionally invested. And THAT Ending?! I will definitely be reading the sequel very soon. 

So, if you love the sound of a gritty mystery, set in a world infused with magic and Greek mythology (and full of morally grey characters just trying to survive the hand they’ve been dealt) — then you really have to consider checking this out. It’s marvellous! 

Also thanks to Penguin UK/ House of YA for the PB copy.