Lore Olympus, created by Rachel Smythe, made its premiere on Webtoon in March of 2018. Since then, it has skyrocketed so much in popularity and is now being published via DelRey in graphic novel format. There are currently four volumes out, and as of this article, I have read three of them.

Details aside, whether you are a fan or novice of Greek mythology, you can get into Lore Olympus very easily. Smythe does a scandalous job of introducing the reader to these known characters, but then sets them in a modern age with cell phones and social media, but at the same time, makes them look vulnerable all seen through her unique art style. The color pallets for each character are vibrant and water color-like, in my eyes it makes the storyline that much more engaging to read.

Persephone, the goddess of spring, is definitely finding herself, she is living a sheltered life in the mortal realm with Artemis as she begins her studies and potentially reluctantly becomes a goddess of eternal maidenhood. Hestia leads this vow of chastity, in good faith to be good role models in their daily lives. Little does anyone but the reader know, that Persephone (trigger and spoiler warning) was raped by Apollo. Throughout the first three volumes, she is struggling with this inside, and as she starts to get feeling for Hades, she struggles with coming to realize what truly happened to her and how her feeling for Hades are affecting her mind and body. Hades also struggles with accepting his feelings, since he has been in and on again and off again relationship with Minthe, also his assistant in the Underworld.

Lore Olympus is engaging from the start, it introduces known characters but adds a fragility to their lives and humanizes them. You can find yourself laughing at times and relating to characters at other moments. Persephone and Hades’ slow-burn romance is the main focus, but Smythe’s portrayal of other gods and goddesses engages the storyline even more.

I never really got into Greek Mythology when I was younger, or recall enjoying it in high school studies, but as I read through Lore Olympus, I find myself more interested in these characters and I have started to read other retellings, like Madeline Miller’s Song of Achilles that I thoroughly enjoyed. Of course, now I am interested in reading more mythological retellings; at an older age, I am finding that it’s more compelling to read. And yes, I and now determined to read more retellings!

The mixture of the story and art of Rachel Smythe makes Lore Olympus flow together so well and it’s hard to put down. Especially since the issues, or episodes in this case, are shorter since originally formatted for Webtoon. I’d definitely recommend this to anyone, teen plus because there’s something in there for anyone to relate to.

Let me know if any Greek mythology retellings that you would recommend!