Go the Distance was the first book I have read by Jen Calonita but it won’t be the last! I loved the story of Hercules when I was younger so I wanted to see the twist they would put on Meg. I was hoping that she wouldn’t lose that spark of spunk and sarcasm as she was sent out on her quest. I’m happy to report that she stayed true to herself. Jen Calonita did a phenomenal job with character development and pacing of the story. The journey Meg took was heartfelt and should be read by anyone who loves a new twist retelling.

Meg had a chance to be the hero in this tale. She learned about love and compassion, teamwork, and what it means to be a hero. Hercules makes a few appearances, but this was pure girl power.

Go the Distance was just the escape I needed- perfect way to end my vacation!! This spin on the Disney classic Hercules tells a story of Megara- could she be a God? Does she have what it takes?

This was such a quick, fun read. Meg is the main character, Meg is given a task to become a God- this is all about girl power! This book is perfect if you are a lover of Disney, especially Hercules!!! It was fun, and I felt like I really was able to understand Megara!

Thank you so much, NetGalley, Disney Publishing Worldwide and Disney-Hyperion, for the chance to read and review this book!

What is Meg had to become a Greek god?
This is the book's premise. After Hercules proves to everyone he's a true hero, now Meg has to prove herself. She can't be with her love because she's mortal, so Hera offers her to complete a quest in order to have a spot on Mt. Olympus. But the mission is to rescue her ex's current wife from the Underworld. The same ex she saved by selling her soul to Hades and who right away moved on. Meg is forced to face her painful past, the wicked Hades, monsters and gods to conquer her place with Hercules.

I love Greek mythology and I'm always fascinated by gods and their adventures. Reading this book was a pleasure. Meg is a wonderful and brilliant main character and I love her so much. She's amazing, stubborn, clever and the story is interesting, full of compelling characters, monsters, gods and so on, and I loved reading it.

I loved this book so much! Meg is such a great character, and I loved she still had that spark that she had in the movie. Her story is both so beautiful and sad because you know she and her mother were doing the best they could. Like the journey that Hercules had to go on so did Meg, and her story was even more emotional. Also, one of my favorite moments had to be her calling out Zeus in the beginning and doing it in front of everyone. Also the epilogue was so beautiful. And one of the things that shocked me was seeing Persephone and Hades together, was a great moment. Also Meg helping them after everything Hades did to her. Meg was such a great main character and I loved seeing her bond with Phil and Pegasus. And the story of Meg’s life before Hades with her mother, was so emotional and you can see how she became herself. Overall, this book was so enjoyable it reminded me so much of when I was younger and how I would watch this movie every week.

On this episode of Everything is Canon, Steve talks to Jen Calonita all about her latest book in the Disney Twisted Tale series, Go the Distance, which asks one simple question, what if Meg had to become a Greek god in order to stay with Hercules?

This is Jen’s third book in the Twisted Tale series, her first two being Mirror, Mirror and Conceal Don’t Feel, and I believe this is her best one yet. It’s not only a fun and exciting adventure, but it also carries with it a heartfelt message about love, family, and sacrifice.

Please follow the link below where I speak with the author about all sorts of things including Disney revisionism, the recent trend of Greek mythology in publishing, the animated film Hercules, and of course, Go the Distance.

https://www.cinelinx.com/off-beat/shows/everything-is-canon-go-the-distance-a-twisted-tale/

Emotional and hauntingly beautiful

Jen Calonita's retelling is just icing on the cake.

Growing up, I always adored Hercules. The mythology, the animation, the music, the plot, the characters, everything. And this retelling is no exception.

The novel starts off exactly at the end of the movie, and continues on in Megara's pov. I loved seeing things from her pov, and hearing how her inner turmoil and anxiety flowed in her, even in the movie was done well.

I felt like I could feel everything that Megara was feeling, even in the end and throughout the main plot.

I think my favorite character was Megara, but also Hades. The characters were dynamic and had heart.

There was at some points where I felt like the novel was dragging, but overall was a good adaptation. 4/5

Thank you to Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to review this ARC.

We all know how it ended. The muses singing “A Star is Born,” Hercules became a god and took Meg with him, but what happens next? What about Meg? In this twisted tale, Hera gives Meg the option to stay in Olympus with her wonder boy but only if she can complete a quest that proves her love for others, and she’s only got a week. Along the way, she’ll have to revisit the man who quickly moved on after she sold her soul to save his life, save his wife, and learn about true love, not romantic love, but love for fellow humans.

This was my first Twisted Tale. When I was in college, I had a few animated movies that I rotated out while studying. I’d seen them a million times, so it was easy to tune them out, or to look up occasionally as my eyes went cross from staring at notes for too long. Hercules was one of these movies, and it’s one of my favorite animated movies. So, when I saw this book, I decided to finally jump into the world of these movie-inspired tales.

I loved that this was about Meg. Hercules is in the book, but he’s had his chance and now it’s her turn. I liked that she has to face her past by saving the wife of her ex. It makes for good drama initially, but also serves to build female friendships and healing. Some of my favorite characters return, and there’s even a few new gods and mythical creatures. All in all, it was a quick read and a good time. I’ll probably pick up more of these in the future.

I’m a damsel. I’m in distress. I can handle this. Have a nice day!”

Wow. This book made me surprisingly emotional and I’m not even mad about it.

*Thank you, Disney-Hyperion, for the free e-arc in exchange for an honest review; all opinions are my own!*

Goodreads synopsis:
What if Meg had to become a god?

After Hercules proves he's a true hero and regains his godship, all seems right in the world. That is, until Zeus tells Meg that she can't be with Hercules because she's, well, mortal. Luckily, Hera has a solution, offering Meg a chance to prove herself worthy of a spot on Mt. Olympus--as a god. All Meg has to do is complete a mysterious quest.

The mission? Oh, just to rescue her ex's current wife from the Underworld. The ex-boyfriend she saved by selling her soul to Hades. The ex-boyfriend who immediately moved on to someone else while she was stuck in the Underworld. Can Meg put her past behind her and use her quick-wit to defeat monsters and gods alike, including the nefarious Hades? Will she finally figure out her place and contribution to the world? Or will her fear of commitment have her running away from an eternity of godhood with Herc?

Written by the author of Mirror, Mirror and Conceal, Don't Feel, Jen Calonita's latest twist is sure to delight and surprise.

I really truly enjoyed this retelling of my favorite Disney movie, in the perspective of my favorite Disney character. It’s delightful and fluffy and action-packed, but I have to discuss the thematic depth of this story. I have always seen pieces of myself in Meg, which is why “I Won’t Say I’m In Love” is such a special song to me. And so, to see Meg truly grow into her vulnerable, forgiving, thoughtful, and selfless, well, self was incredibly moving. Pride and independence can only get you so far, especially when it comes to love, and Meg learns this and more during her quest; she has to decide what love means to her and actually re-evaluates her feelings for Hercules against the stereotypes of the hero and the damsel-in-distress they often seem to play out (even despite Meg’s unconventional sass and sultriness).

This is my first venture into the Twisted Tales, and I was nervous that the writing would feel young and would play-down Meg’s unique personality. Well, the writing does feel young in some places, but more in a young YA range, not even middle-grade. And there were places where I felt Meg’s snarkiness is lacking, especially in her inner dialogue, and personally I wanted this book to teach on vulnerability in relationships while reaffirming that sass and independence are great and inspiring qualities in her. Not that this book doesn’t do that, because it does? I think I’m still a little conflicted about that, but I honestly believe it’s because I’ve always felt such a connection to Meg; her sarcasm shows me my own is a valuable trait, instead of something that simply comes out of insecurity or meanness. So I think I wanted more of that trademark snarkiness that Hercules fell in love with in the first place.

All in all, though, this book actually made me really emotional - like sobbing-crying emotional. the lessons Meg learns speak to my soul, and I will carry her story arc as a reminder that vulnerability is truly strength.

“‘But don’t you see? When you find someone worthy of your love, letting them help is also powerful. Just as you, in turn, have helped him… It’s important to remember that when you let someone into your heart, you allow them to see all sides of you - even the vulnerable side. Loving someone does not make you any less strong.’”

The themes in this book mean so much to me, but I believe there’s a little in them for everyone. I recommend this book to Disney lovers, but particularly to those who have always seen a piece of themselves in Meg and realized through her that having a bit of sass is a good thing.





If you enjoyed this review, you can friend me here on Goodreads and follow my Bookstagram/Pinterest/Twitter @ashton_reads. Thanks for reading!

This book picks up at the end of the Disney film! Instead of remaining on earth with Meg, Hercules becomes a god on mount Olympus and Zeus forbids his relationship with a mortal. Hera then offers Meg a solution: complete a quest and become a god as well!

This had all the elements of an exciting and fan loved story with a perfect pace throughout There was a main goal with a high stakes quest. It was such an absolute delight to read and it brought back so much nostalgia from my childhood!

I definitely recommend this for fans of Hercules, especially fans of Meg. Even if you’re not a Greek Mythology fan in general, I definitely recommend giving this a read.

This book was everything I wanted it to be! I love Hercules, it’s honestly tied for my favorite Disney movie with Atlantis: The Lost Empire.

This book begins immediately with Hercules and Meg on Mount Olympus after Hercules becomes a god at the end of the movie. It tackles the question of how they can continue their relationship if Meg remains a mortal. Thankfully, Meg is offered a quest that will make her a god if she succeeds. However, anyone that knows anything about Greek mythology knows that there will be difficulties along the way.

This book fleshes out the character of Meg so well! She has always been one of my favorites, but this book made me like her even more. We learn about her tragic childhood that has left her both scared of connecting with others, yet also desperate for a connection (looking at you attachment disorders). We learn of her previous relationship and the man she sold her soul to. Except all is not as it seems in that particular regard.

Overall, this book was so good as both a YA book and just an excellent story for anyone. The psychological depth of the story was astounding, given that it’s a short YA book. I think anyone reading this (children in particular) can learn a lot from it in terms of love, loss, healthy relationships, and healing from trauma. I firmly believe that these are lessons everyone needs.

I would recommend this book to anyone who loves the Percy Jackson series (or anything by Rick Riordan). This book is perfect for anyone who loves mythology or was a fan of the movie. I will definitely be checking out the other books in this collection!

This book was provided to me by the publisher as an advanced reading copy.

I have always wondered what would have happened if things had ended differently for Meg and Hercules. This book was everything my childhood heart ever could have asked for.

I feel like these tales are hit or miss and Jen Calonita is not the best writer. I think Liz Braswell, who has written multiple other Twisted Tales, is a much better writer. I just could not get past the rudimentary prose and rather lackluster dialogue, especially since Meg stops referring to Hercules as "Wonder Boy" before they ascend to Olympus.

This twist is what if Meg had to become a God? If you have seen the Disney movie you know that Hercules rescues Meg from Hades and the Underworld (no spoilers here since this happens in the first few pages even if you have not seen the movie). When this happens, he is able to return to Olympus as a God. In the movie, he wants to stay on Earth with Meg. In the book Zeus says "No." So Meg takes on a quest of her own so she can join Hercules on Mount Olympus and they can live happily ever after.

As I said, the writing of this book was not good. I struggled to get through it. I think if there are any further twisted tales I will bypass anything by this writer. I do recommend Liz Braswell's take on some of these Disney tales, so creepy and well done. Hard pass on this one.

I've read a few of the Twisted Tales series, and I have to say, Jen Calonita's are my favorites. I love the concept of taking one concept of the original tale, changing it, and twisting the story off from there. In this case, Hercules states his intent to give up his godhood and remain mortal with Meg. Zeus who has just gotten his son back, refuses. Hera takes sympathy on the couple. She gives Meg a series of quests. If she can complete them in ten days then she can become a god and stay with Hercules.
I loved the quests, the added background to Meg and Hercules relationship, and Meg's growth throughout the story. Phil and Pegasus make a reappearance in this story, giving Meg a chance to learn to trust them, and earn their trust. I feel like Jen Calonita nailed Meg's voice from the movie, with her sarcasm, and cynicism. This was excellently done!

Content: clean (no language, mild violence-fighting creatures, a few kisses)
I love that this series is appropriate for teens young and old.

I’s ism a grown woman who should not love this book as much as I did but...a book focusing on Hades and Meg is just beyond perfection. The story is engaging, even some back story on Megaera herself and her developing relationship with hunky Herc, but the character development, the sheer strength of will to take on an impossible quest, not only for love, but to prove herself worthy as a goddess and true individual. This is my favorite twisted tale so far and they just keep getting better. I am dearly hoping for one about Scar from the Lion King, but my cup run itch over with joy and exuberance for the delight of this retailing and how well it characterized not only Meg, but Pegasus, Phil, Hades, Zeus and Hercules as well as the smattering of new characters that just add to the legend in their own ways by filling in missing pieces. Plenty of action, so many fantastic Greek mythological references, gorgeous descriptions and a thrill ride of a plot.

What if Meg had to become a god?
Hercules worked so hard to regain his godship and be reunited with his birth family, falling in love with Megara along the way. Even though Meg was on a secret mission to sabotage him, she proved her loyalty in the end. Now they are ready to spend their life together but there is just one small problem...mortals and gods can't be together. Hera, Hercules' mother, is offering Meg the dream of a lifetime. If Meg can prove herself worthy, Hera will see to it that Meg receives a spot on Mt. Olympus as a god herself! Meg wants nothing more than to prove herself and be by Hercules' side, but can she do it? Join her on this journey and read along as she battles creatures, takes risks, and pushes herself to a point she didn't know she could.
I absolutely loved this story; I couldn't put it down. Jen Calonita did a phenomenal job writing this. Her writing style fit perfectly to make this feel like a true, twisted sequel to the Disney movie we all love! The characters' attitudes and mannerisms were spot on. She was so descriptive, painting the perfect picture in your mind. This was such a magical journey and I am so grateful that I got to feel immersed in the magic myself. I definitely recommend this story to all Disney fans!

I received a free copy of this book via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

A huge thank-you to NetGalley and Disney-Hyperion for this e-arc of Go the Distance by Jen Calonita.

"I need to see you understand love is a strength, not a weakness. That putting your trust in someone you love doesn't mean you can't stand on your own two feet. It means you know how to share responsibility and accept help when it is needed... I want to see you know how to be vulnerable, Megara. And understand that love means opening your heart even if the story doesn't always end the way you want it to."

Over the past few years, I've read several of these Twisted Tale stories, but none of them have stood out to me quite like Go the Distance. From the moment it began, I was sucked into the tale and wondered what would happen next. I assumed it would be childish, simple, and end with a way-too-predictable HEA (happily ever after). Instead, I was taken on a wild, emotional journey.

I'll admit, I didn't grow up watching Hercules the way some kids did. I've seen it, sure, but it doesn't hold a space in my heart as much as other Disney animated films. However, I always admired Meg. She was bold and feisty and I loved her charisma and determination, even in the face of danger. She knew how to put "Wonder Boy" in his place and stand her ground. I think that's why a lot of people admire her. After reading this book, there's only respect in my mind for this strong female character.

In order to stay with Herc forever, Hera sends Megara on a quest to become a god. As is expected, the quest isn't something easy. In fact, it requires Meg to face her past and save the woman her ex abandoned her for... from the Underworld. Back to Hades' domain, Meg goes (and didn't she just manage to escape?), and she has more to unravel than just the emotions tied to her previous romance.

There were some stand-out moments throughout this quest. Times where Meg could have (maybe should have) given up and chosen to remain human. There were times where she made mistakes that were oh-so relatable due to her swirling thoughts and unsure feelings. I highlighted so many quotes in my Kindle as I read and even felt as though Megara became somewhat like a friend. This surprised me greatly since I was going into this assuming it would have an almost middle-grade feel to it, as some of the other Twisted Tales had. I closed the book feeling as though I had actually learned something from it.

My greatest desire after finishing this novel? That they'd turn this book into a movie. I would absolutely watch Meg's story on the big screen!

This was such a fun story! I dove into this book with pretty low expectations, as I haven't had the best of luck with Jen Calonita's books in this series so far. However, I found myself pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this one.

I loved the fact that she stayed close to the Disney story. The characters felt the same as they did in the Hercules movie, even though the story was completely different. I also loved following Meg as our protagonist. I always thought her potential wasn't fully exploited in Hercules, so I was glad to read a story from her perspective.

I personally wasn't the biggest fan of the ending, but I still had a great reading experience overall. I think fans of the Twisted Tale series will enjoy this one!

* Received an ARC free of charge for this novel, my review has spoilers*

I loved this book from beginning to end. This side of Meg was totally needed. Her past and future struggles made the quest more human. Jen really did wonders on this novel. My favorite part was the poppy fields inside the Underworld; plus a sweet bonus for me is when she helped Persephone and Hades stay together. Five stars DOES NOT do this book justice in my opinion. Very well written..Thank you Jen for another great read.

This book pick up right where Hercules ends... or almost. Instead Hercules giving up his immortality, Meg is given the chance to join the ranks of the Greek Gods on Mt. Olympus. If she can complete the quest set to her by Hera that is, and it won’t be easy when it includes helping the person who betrayed her years ago.

I had SO much fun reading this book. Meg is one of my favorite heroines in the Disney canon and this book is finally giving her the depth and complexity she deserves. I’ve read a few of these Twisted Tales stories and this is the one that has felt most like a Disney movie, I could totally see it being Hercules 2.

I loved delving into Meg’s backstory (I’m a sucker for a good backstory) and learning about how she got to where she is. Calonita did a great job of faithfully portraying Meg, she’s the same sassy, sarcastic character we know from the movie. I enjoyed getting to know her better and having the opportunity to see her perspective on herself and the other characters. She definitely had a lot of growing to do and Calonita got her there in a way that was true to Meg and didn’t feel rushed or contrived. There was an overuse of the nickname “Wonder Boy” in the beginning but nothing I couldn’t get past haha.

Everyone’s favorite God of the Underworld makes a comeback post Titan War and he’s not alone! I wasn’t expecting this to come up, since the story is focused on Meg, but when I clocked it I let out a little shriek of excitement. I’m sure you can guess what it is but I won’t spoil it, just know I thought it was a cute addition.