I thought Oppression was about slavery just looking at the title. Yes, I did a classic don't judge the book by its cover. And I was wondering why the series is called Children of the Gods. I think I did not read the whole summary. I was very surprised to learn that this book was a little like Percy Jackson and the Olympians. That was my first impression. It got me more curious and I told myself to finish Oppression right away so I can read the rest of the books in the series. Fortunately, the three books were sent to me, although I was only required to review one book. The author was so generous. Thank you Jessica Therrien.
So, here is book one.
The story centers on Elyse, who looks like she's eighteen but she's actually older than that. Way, way older. All her life she had been too protected by her parents to keep their secret. She never had friends. All that suddenly changed when her parents died in a car accident. She meet two people she found she can trust with her secret. Also, she found that there were others like her. People who are special and who know more of who she is and what the future awaits her.
Yes, this feels like Percy Jackson with a twist. Instead of demi-gods, here, they are just people with special abilities. I was wondering if this story was a fan-fic of Rick Riordan's Percy Jackson and Olympians. Is it? I am absolutely curious.
Jessica, please let me know if my hunch is right? There are similarities to the story. In here, the clueless hero is a girl - Elyse. And like Percy, she too have friends who help her discover her abilities and face her true identity. Also, there is the influence of a prophecy which determines the fate of our heroine or the world. This is akin to Percy's adventures where he has to consult the Oracle and go on a quest. Except here, there was no need for a quest. Elyse doesn't know what she has to do. Only, that whatever she decides, the prophecy will definitely lead her to her destiny.
I enjoyed the story and it's a different take on the ever-popular Greek mythology which a lot of books have been inspired from. And I think this is where the biggest chunk of the similarity to Percy Jackson lies. It being based on Greek Mythology. It is a fresh and simpler look into it but the best thing is, it has not been done before. I love mythology. I have always been fascinated by these larger-than-life characters and amazing stories. In fact, the very first book I bought with my first salary was a Edith Hamilton's version of Mythology.
I rate it 3 and a half stars. The story is able to keep me in suspense to the point of being impatient. I was compelled to stay on so I can get to the part where who Elyse really is, is revealed. Just like Elyse, I can't wait to find out what the whole hiding and keeping anonymous is about. And I was not disappointed. The story just kept on getting interesting. I totally understand now why they are called Children of the Gods and I can't contain my excitement of what is waiting for Elyse and her friends on book 2 - Uprising. I really appreciate Jessica Therrien throwing in the rest of the books in the series. This way I am spared of being frustrated. Tada, I have the rest of the stories right in my hands.
Those of you who are Percy Jackson fans, try these books of Therrien also. They may not be as great as that of Percy/Riordan but they are captivating enough to make you curious how the characters will transform and how the story will evolve. I am a big Riordan fan - from Percy, to the Kanes, to Jason and to Magnus. But the fact that this story has interested me has a lot to do with it being a simpler variation of the popular demi-god stories that we are all so familiar with. This simple perspective makes it very unique because no one has attempted it. Sometimes, you just have to look at things simply, without complication. But I do not mean to suggest that the story is uncomplicated, the basis for the plot is. And the story will keep you guessing. It was for me.
The Olympians, the Titans and now we have the Descendants. Good work Jessica Therrien.
Life.A labyrinth of crossroads and blind turns that you've never really intended to find your way through. Full of defining moments and significant landmarks that could at any time take you by surprise, turning your whole world inside down.
-Jessica Therrien, Oppression (Children of the Gods Book 1) -
I got this from ebooksforreview.com in exchange for an honest review.
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