Origin of the Sphinx by Raye Wagner is a prequel novella to the series, The Sphinx. It tells the story of Phoibe, daughter of Hera, and how her daughter (Hope’s grandmother) became cursed as the Sphinx. To fans of the series it is an absolute must read! While it doesn’t have any bearing on the plot of the series (so you could read it before starting the series or after the first book), it does give some important background, namely the events that led up to the curse.

Phoibe is a young girl when her father has to make the decision between raising her and having a family with his wife. Ultimately he makes the decision to send Phoibe to live with Priska, a wise woman in the village, another demigod. She is only 6 when this happens and it affects her more that I think she realized. Phoibe is naive with a heart of gold. She’s kind, sweet, and all to trusting.

During the festival of Hestia, the summer Phoibe becomes of age, she meets and falls in love with another mortal. However she also catches the eye of the arrogant god Apollo. Apollo claims he wants only friendship and as Phoibe is lonely living with her “aunt” she finds comfort in the god’s attention. As she ages, she realizes her mistake and must chose between her mortal and the sun god.

This is the crux of the story, Phoibe’s choice. Does she choose a moment of happiness and love in her immortal life with a mortal? OR does she choose to be a consort of Apollo? I really enjoyed this short novella. It gives such insight into Hope’s curse and really is a heart-breaking tale. Phoibe’s choice is pure and of the heart, but Apollo tugged at my heart as well. He wooed me as he wooed Phoibe. Overall this is insight for the series and things to come. I can’t wait!