Greek mythology, old gods, New York City, and an open hunting season every seven years.

After reading a 6 chapter sampler, I was left wanting more of this wholly original, dark fantasy novel that is like an urban fantasy with Greek gods and elements of horror movie "The Purge" - every seven years, old gods turn mortal and mortal hunters go on a seek-and-kill rampage.

I just finished the full book, and WOW!! This book was epic urban fantasy, masterfully combined with clearly researched Greek mythology. Fully taking place in New York City, this book brings in the truly brutal elements of Greek gods. Bracken smartly weaves in the idea of "Houses of [insert god]" into mob style contemporary New York landscape.

Lore was complex character given depth, complexity, growth, and a hell of a lot of rage. Rage at her family's murderers. Rage at her circumstances as a "mere" girl in a world of male egos wielded by gods. Rage at those who hurt those she loves. Rage at betrayal. And rage at being underestimated.

I. LOVED. HER. RAGE.

Did it blind her and make her act rashly, on occasion? Yes. But she is fallible and strong at the same time and learns to harness what makes her angry at the world. I loved the exploration of historical Greek myths and their treatments of female gods and worshipers - it was incredibly fascinating. This was in the midst of a desperate hunt for one who would destroy everything with the limits of the 7 day Agon, when gods take mortal form and can be murdered in order to absorb their powers.

Lore is the contemporary Greek fantasy hero all women need, and all boys need to see.

Bravo to Alexandra Bracken and to this book!!