Graphic Novels
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Lore Olympus: Volume One
NATIONAL BESTSELLER • Scandalous gossip, wild parties, and forbidden love-witness what the gods do after dark in this stylish and contemporary reimagining of one of the best-known stories in Greek mythology from creator Rachel Smythe.
NAMED ONE OF THE BEST BOOKS OF THE YEAR BY NPR • "What Scott Pilgrim did for Canadian slackers, Lore Olympus does for the Greek pantheon, while being so beautiful that you know Aphrodite is just staring daggers in its direction."-Kieron Gillen, co-creator of The Wicked + The Divine
Persephone, young goddess of spring, is new to Olympus. Her mother, Demeter, has raised her in the mortal realm, but after Persephone promises to train as a sacred virgin, she's allowed to live in the fast-moving, glamorous world of the gods. When her roommate, Artemis, takes her to a party, her entire life changes: she ends up meeting Hades and feels an immediate spark with the charming yet misunderstood ruler of the Underworld. Now Persephone must navigate the confusing politics and relationships that rule Olympus, while also figuring out her own place-and her own power.
This full-color edition of Smythe's original Eisner-nominated webcomic Lore Olympus features a brand-new, exclusive short story, and brings Greek mythology into the modern age in a sharply perceptive and romantic graphic novel.
This volume collects episodes 1–25 of the #1 WEBTOON comic Lore Olympus.
NAMED ONE OF THE BEST BOOKS OF THE YEAR BY NPR • "What Scott Pilgrim did for Canadian slackers, Lore Olympus does for the Greek pantheon, while being so beautiful that you know Aphrodite is just staring daggers in its direction."-Kieron Gillen, co-creator of The Wicked + The Divine
Persephone, young goddess of spring, is new to Olympus. Her mother, Demeter, has raised her in the mortal realm, but after Persephone promises to train as a sacred virgin, she's allowed to live in the fast-moving, glamorous world of the gods. When her roommate, Artemis, takes her to a party, her entire life changes: she ends up meeting Hades and feels an immediate spark with the charming yet misunderstood ruler of the Underworld. Now Persephone must navigate the confusing politics and relationships that rule Olympus, while also figuring out her own place-and her own power.
This full-color edition of Smythe's original Eisner-nominated webcomic Lore Olympus features a brand-new, exclusive short story, and brings Greek mythology into the modern age in a sharply perceptive and romantic graphic novel.
This volume collects episodes 1–25 of the #1 WEBTOON comic Lore Olympus.
Editorial Reviews
"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, and as witty as it is startlingly romantic. Prepare to be swept away!"-Marissa Meyer, #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Lunar Chronicles
"This is a refreshingly modern and surprisingly poignant take on the Hades and Persephone myth. Not only does Rachel Smythe's talent as an illustrator shine in Lore Olympus but also her skill with weaving a steamy, often laugh-out-loud funny, and emotional retelling."-Jennifer L. Armentrout, #1 New York Times bestselling author of From Blood and Ash
"With vivid, irresistible art and storytelling that would make even the Muses swoon, this modern myth deftly tackles the darkness of the ancient stories while never losing its brilliant light. I couldn't devour it fast enough."-Alexandra Bracken, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Lore
"Sheer bliss. Rachel Smythe is a master storyteller, filling each gorgeously illustrated page with equal parts humor, heart, and joy."-Meg Cabot, author of The Princess Diaries and Abandon series
"Lore Olympus is a visual feast! It's sexy and clever, taking ancient Greek myths and spinning them to be relevant today. I could not put this graphic novel down and cannot wait to see more of Persephone and Hades-and the rest of the Lore Olympus pantheon."-P. C. Cast, New York Times bestselling author of Spells Trouble and the House of Night series
"An inspired, sweet, and thoroughly modern reimagining of Hades and Persephone's tale. Its cast is memorable, and its central relationship absorbing and spellbinding."-Aliette de Bodard, award-winning author of Fireheart Tiger
"Rachel Smythe's Lore Olympus is a stunning reimagining of classical myth. Smythe adapts the story of Persephone and Hades, removing it from its dark origins and building a brand-new epic with her own complex and beautiful characters. The rest of the gods, nymphs, and creatures of Smythe's world are the icing on top."-Liv Albert, author of Greek Mythology: The Gods, Goddesses, and Heroes Handbook and creator of Let's Talk About Myths, Baby! podcast
"A sweepingly romantic story that offers new meaning with each and every rereading, Rachel Smythe's Lore Olympus perfectly balances humor and tragedy, heartbreak and desire. Fans who enjoyed it as a webcomic will be thrilled to hold this luscious work of art in their hands."-Jo Rochelle, creator of Girl Wonder podcast
"Lore Olympus is an addictive, romantic gem of a comic, filled with ...
"This is a refreshingly modern and surprisingly poignant take on the Hades and Persephone myth. Not only does Rachel Smythe's talent as an illustrator shine in Lore Olympus but also her skill with weaving a steamy, often laugh-out-loud funny, and emotional retelling."-Jennifer L. Armentrout, #1 New York Times bestselling author of From Blood and Ash
"With vivid, irresistible art and storytelling that would make even the Muses swoon, this modern myth deftly tackles the darkness of the ancient stories while never losing its brilliant light. I couldn't devour it fast enough."-Alexandra Bracken, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Lore
"Sheer bliss. Rachel Smythe is a master storyteller, filling each gorgeously illustrated page with equal parts humor, heart, and joy."-Meg Cabot, author of The Princess Diaries and Abandon series
"Lore Olympus is a visual feast! It's sexy and clever, taking ancient Greek myths and spinning them to be relevant today. I could not put this graphic novel down and cannot wait to see more of Persephone and Hades-and the rest of the Lore Olympus pantheon."-P. C. Cast, New York Times bestselling author of Spells Trouble and the House of Night series
"An inspired, sweet, and thoroughly modern reimagining of Hades and Persephone's tale. Its cast is memorable, and its central relationship absorbing and spellbinding."-Aliette de Bodard, award-winning author of Fireheart Tiger
"Rachel Smythe's Lore Olympus is a stunning reimagining of classical myth. Smythe adapts the story of Persephone and Hades, removing it from its dark origins and building a brand-new epic with her own complex and beautiful characters. The rest of the gods, nymphs, and creatures of Smythe's world are the icing on top."-Liv Albert, author of Greek Mythology: The Gods, Goddesses, and Heroes Handbook and creator of Let's Talk About Myths, Baby! podcast
"A sweepingly romantic story that offers new meaning with each and every rereading, Rachel Smythe's Lore Olympus perfectly balances humor and tragedy, heartbreak and desire. Fans who enjoyed it as a webcomic will be thrilled to hold this luscious work of art in their hands."-Jo Rochelle, creator of Girl Wonder podcast
"Lore Olympus is an addictive, romantic gem of a comic, filled with ...
Readers Top Reviews
Kirk BrownAlora Buce
I've been following this series since it started (like many people) and it easily is one of my favorites. I purchased the hardcover and it is a lot bigger than I expected it to be. I will pre-order vol. 2 (if available) before the day is up. I recommend this story to everyone.
Sarah H.
I started reading this title on the Webtoons app, and I have loved following the author's vivid noir take on the classic tale of Hades and Persephone with every update. And the new hardcover print version is even more glorious. The colors are richly vibrant and translate the original vertical scrolling format beautifully. Rachel Smythe's art style reminded me of Al Hirschfeld initially, with her bold lines and elegant curves, but it is truly her own. It gives the reader a feast for the eyes while conveying such nuance that I see and learn something new about every character each time I read it. Her use of color is mind blowing, so I am grateful it is just as amazing in print as it is online. She also broaches difficult topics such as bullying, PTSD, depression, date rape, communication breakdowns, toxic relationships, and gaslighting through the story in a way that brings awareness to them in a pointed way without making them the sole focus of the story. The characters are incredibly fleshed out people, with many facets to their lives. They are more than their traumas. And I love them for it. I am looking forward to having vol 2 and the rest of the Lore Olympus story in my personal collection. It will hold a place of honor there. Recommend for fans of Linda Sejic, Brodi Ashton, Jacqueline Carey, and Rainbow Rowell. TW: strong language and those listed above
Lou
I’ve been keeping up to date and following this comic on WEBTOON. It has an incredibly unique and interesting art style that Racheal Smythe only continues to improve. This is a fun and modern retelling of the Hades and Persephone myth with enough drama, fluff, and intrigue to keep you interested. This has both literally and figuratively a great cast of colorful characters that you have the pleasure of following. It’s hard not to get invested in their story and struggles and root for just about everyone.
Caitlin C.
I was so excited to get this, as I'm a huge fan. I didn't know what to expect and it's gorgeous! The art is even better in person and my toddler loved all the colors when he looked at it. So, so worth it!
Cutmylifeintopeaches
I have been watching the window waiting and it's finally here!! It's absolutely beautiful. The book accurately portrays the devastating trauma a person goes through after sexual assault. I can not thank her enough for illustrating those strong emotions. Hermes is my favorite chaotic good boi. I love her retelling of these classic characters & her use of color. I am SO ready for volume two; I've been following Rachel from the beginning I already have volume two pre-ordered!!
