I really enjoyed this book. It was well written and kept me entertained. I will note that it reads kind of like a YA book with some New Adult content. Im not familiar with the Apollo and Hyacinth myth so I don’t know how accurate this retelling is but it’s a good read and sets itself up nicely to be a series. I would read the second book when it comes out.

As someone who is a devoted fan of greek mythology, it took me a while to accept the premise of this book. It reads more like a fantasy novel than a myth retelling. That being said, it has a very interesting story and sets up the series very well. I am looking forward to what comes next!

THIS REVIEW CONTAINS SPOILERS.

This book took me a HOT MINUTE to get into. I can’t even lie, the first half of the book draaaagged on for me. I am, however, glad that I pushed through because the second half? Immaculate. Loved every minute of it. I have a plethora of thoughts and quotes to share that were just ugh, *chef’s kiss*.

Let’s start off with Apollo and Hyacinth, or really, Golden Boy and Cyn. The tension between these two was REAL and you could tell in their perspective chapters how attracted they were to each other.
Apollo (about Cyn): “How is he even mortal? He’s too perfect looking - like a damn God.”
Cyn (to Apollo): “My lord” - he skimmed over me - “an aberration is the last word I’d use to describe you tonight.”
Like you’re KIDDING me. They were inevitable from their first scene together and every chapter after. If my future lover doesn’t think I look like a goddess, I don’t want it. Thanks for raising my standards again 😅
Apollo (to Cyn): “You’re like one of those flowers that eats things.”
I LOVED this simple little sentence because Apollo was referring to Cyn being a badass and Cyn loved flowers. Maybe I was overreacting but that sentence seriously sealed the deal for me and made me ~officially~ love Apollo and I absolutely was giggling and screaming read the entire scene that this came from. Again, I want my future lover to think I’m like one of those flowers that eats things. Thanks, Apollo.
NOW LET’S BREAK DOWN THEIR QUOTES THAT SHATTERED ME IN THE BEST WAY.
Apollo (to Cyn): “When he finds out I’m as fucking in love with you as you are with me, obviously.”
Cyn (to Apollo): “Leave the destiny that’s been forced upon you and forge a new one with me.”
So this was said to Cyn in reference to Zeus (possibly) finding out about the two being together romantically and was the reason why Apollo left Hyacinth early (which HURT, by the way). Cyn leaving the palace to go after Apollo was EVERYTHING to me. No food, no weapons, nothing but himself on his own two feet searching for the man he loved. Thank the Gods Cyn’s father convinced him to go. I don’t know how I would have slept at night these men had never admitted their love for each other. Apollo choosing Cyn over everything and deciding to leave Zeus and fight against him was HUGE and really showed his character development. Cyn made him better and I love him for it. I love THEM.

Moving on to Temi and Epiphany. Their friendship was genuinely my favorite part of the whole book. As much as I did adore Cyn and Apollo, their sisters were even better. I was SO excited for their chapters and they were actually the reason why I kept reading through the first half of the book. They were both so headstrong and brave and confident and encouraging of each other that I literally couldn’t abandon them or the book. Let’s go into depth about some of their quotes that stood out to me.
Temi (to Apollo): “What you need is a real connection and a real purpose in your life.”
THE WAY THIS CAME BACK AT THE END?? FULL CIRCLE AND GODS WAS IT SATISFYING.
Pip: “I’d rather have a moment of intense beauty and joy and treasure that than something dull that lasts forever.”
This has GOT to be foreshadowing for her and Valerian 😭 I need them to be together more than I need air to breathe. Not only that, but this quote is SO important!! Choose happiness, however brief it may be, over a lifetime of unhappiness. But seriously, Pip and Val need to happen. Temi called Pip out about it and even though she apologized later, Pip NEEDED to hear that. I hope it sets her into action in book 2.
Another Temi quote I loved - “I already know I look stunning in it. This dress is kick-ass.”
Her confidence is my favorite thing about her. She encourages Pip to be confident too which is EXACTLY what she needs. Breaks her out of her shell and gets her out of her head over the future and what is expected of her. I know Cyn asked Pip to spend time with Temi, but their friendship is so real and open and beautiful. I really believe that Pip needed Temi more than anything else in that time.

I mentioned Val a bit already but let’s just unpack that a little more.
Val (to Pip): “You look beautiful tonight, Epiphany.”
Pip thought to herself that a hundred people had told her that but it meant a thousand times more coming from Val. I was sobbing. She doesn’t need validation, but boy does it feel good to have the person you (secretly) love tell you that you’re beautiful. I’m not gonna go in-depth about the bonus scene of Valerian’s, but if you ship him and Pip like I do, check it out.

ONE LAST THING ABOUT TEMI!!
Hierophant (to Apollo): “You cannot seriously believe that Artemis is mortal?”
EXCUSE ME?? I KNOW I AM YELLING BUT H O W DID I NOT PICK UP ON THAT? THERE WERE SO MANY COMMENTS ABOUT HOW SHE WAS SO PERFECT AND IT WAS SHOCKING THAT SHE WASN’T A GODDESS. TEMI IS LITERALLY IN THE NAME ARTEMIS AND I MISSED IT. I CANNOT WAIT TO SEE HOW SHE GROWS INTO HER POWERS IN BOOK 2!!! Also, who the heck is her dad?? So many questions that I need answered!

Overall, I really enjoyed A Veil of Gods and Kings. I was so happy with the ending and curious to see how everything lands in the next book! This absolutely would have been five stars if it had picked up just a bit sooner and left out some of the extra fluff. It was confusing at parts but not unmanageable. I do think that the world building was amazing though, and I’ve got a great image in my mind of the story. The character drawings from the author were also SO HELPFUL when it came to picturing the main characters. Definitely recommend if you plan on reading and haven’t yet (but you also must love torture because you just read a bunch of spoilers and ruined the surprises)!!

i received an arc through netgalley (thank you Victory Editing Netgalley Co-Op) All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I found this a very addicting read, ive never read a greek mythology book with Apollo being the main character so it was good to read that. Apollo and Hyacinth relationship was written really well and the enemies to lovers served i loved it.

The banter between Apollo and Hyacinth i loved, the nicknames and the little moments of going somewhere alone. Golden Boy was a fave.

One quote that has stuck with me since finishing was
“It reminds you of a sin that isn’t yours, Leave the past behind you Apollo.” I slipped my fingers into his. “A different future awaits.”
I teared up a bit at Apollos confession.

Apollo and Hyacinth complete each other.
Epiphany and Temi their platonic relationship was so beautiful to see too.
Epiphany and Valerian the bonus scene got me! There is something genuine between them and can’t wait for more of everyone

Really good, developed characters throughout. Enjoyed it so much i didn’t want it to end.
Can’t wait for Book 2!!

Apollo was going through somethings! I loved reading this story. I can’t wait to read what coming next for Apollo and Cyn.

A Veil of Gods and Kings begins a new queer historical / fantasy romance series following the Greek god Apollo. I have been loving fantasy romance recently so when I saw this book up on Netgalley I leapt at the chance to read it!

A Veil of Gods and Kings retells the myth of Apollo and Prince Hyacinth. This is a lesser known story which I have to admit that I'm not familiar with so I can't comment on the accuracy of the retelling. I did enjoy reading about a different Greek myth and of course loved that it was queer. I would say, however, not to go into this book expecting historical accuracy. There were many things in this book that I don't believe existed in Ancient Greece, as well as very modern language that felt a bit out of place in a historical setting.

I enjoyed reading from all three perspectives in this book: Apollo, Prince Hyacinth and his sister, Epiphany. To begin with I wasn’t sure about Epiphany’s perspective – why have someone else’s POV in a romance? – but I ended up quite enjoying reading about her and her friendship with Apollo’s sister, Temi, and their work towards helping women and poor families. I really enjoyed Apollo and Hyacinth’s relationship as they went from mutual dislike to friendship to something more. I felt that it developed at the perfect pace and loved the banter between them.

Honestly, as I sit to write this review a few days after finishing the book, I find myself struggling to remember it. Which is the main reason that it’s getting three stars: it was good and fun while I read it (in close to one sitting while on the beach) but it just didn’t stick with me or particularly blow me away. And that’s okay – not every book is going to change your life.

A Veil of Gods and Kings was an enjoyable read that kicked off a new romance series exploring a lesser known Greek myth.

Thank you to Netgalley for an eARC of this novel.

I absolutely adore the concept of this book. This retelling of a lesser known Greek myth has reignited my love for mythology and retellings. If you're looking for a story close to its source material, you won't find it here but it's a good story nonetheless.

Personally I did find the novel lacking a little overall. As a new adult romantic fantasy I expected a little more depth. The mature content of the book is enough to push it into new adult territory but the writing and character development feels more young adult. The promised slow burn, enemies to lovers relationship is not as expected. The initial excitement leads into a very monotonous mid section with an unsatisfying and abrupt conclusion. Hyacinth's sister Pip nabs quite a few chapters for herself with very little impact on the main storyline. As a character she isn't compelling and her chapters aren't exciting.

Hyacinth and Apollo are equally likeable as characters and their development into friends and lovers is quite believable. Temi is a great character and I love her strength and determination.

I did find one twist unexpected and honestly I think it's more because I'm so dense. It was a twist I should have seen coming and was already anticipating in a way. The actual unveiling had me feeling so incredibly stupid because really, it's so obvious. This may be the only "wow" moment I experienced.

Younger adult readers with an interest in retellings, M/M romance, Greek mythology and easy to read stories may find a lot of enjoyment here. I found A Veil of Gods and Kings didn't meet my own personal expectations but still believe it has its audience.

First of all, can we talk about this cover?? Wow 😍

I loved this book! I am always a fan of a good Greek mythology retelling, and this one did not disappoint. The story follows Apollo and his sister Temi as they are forced by Apollo’s father Zeus to stay with mortal Prince Hyacinth and his family as punishment for refusing to ascend to his godly status. Apollo is dealing with complicated family relationships, a lack of purpose, and so much unresolved anger - it was so great to see him develop as a character and begin to find purpose and forgiveness.

I love a good enemies to lovers storyline, and this was no exception! The growth in both Hyacinth and Apollo that allowed them to break down their walls long enough to develop feelings for one another was so sweet.

Temi and Epiphany, Hyacinth’s sister, are another dynamic duo in this book. I loved their friendship and that Temi pushes Epiphany to stand up for herself and follow her heart, despite what is expected of her as a princess and woman of the time. I only wished we had gotten more of Temi, as we got the POV of all of the other main characters throughout the book with the exception of hers. I am hopeful for this in the second book!

I also adored the sibling relationships in this book. Temi and Apollo stick up for each other and will follow each other to the ends of the earth, no matter what. Hyacinth and Epiphany shared so many tender moments and despite some conflict, still remained in each other’s corner. It made my heart so happy!

I definitely recommend this one and I am very excited to see where this story goes in book 2!

Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for this ARC! All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own and unbiased.

First of all, I have got to say that I’m obsessed with these characters. We have characters who are struggling with their destiny, falling in love with people that they probably shouldn’t, and fighting back against the power of the gods. Honestly, what more could you want in a story. I highly recommend this read to those who love Greek mythology retellings, LGBTQ+ romance, and fighting fate.

Firstly I want to thank the publisher and Netgalley for the e-arc ❤️❤️

The premise of this book really really excited me, I’m absolutely obsessed with Greek myths, stories and tales. I love this reimagining of Apollo and Hyacinths love story, it’s full of wonderful characters, an amazing subplot featuring their brilliant sisters and it has all the yearning you’ll need!! 😍😍

I love a good enemies to lovers plot and A Veil of Gods and Kings has a brilliant M/M relationships at the forefront of the story. Apollo and Hyacinth are completely different and yet exactly the same and it makes for a really brilliant read for the most part. Apollo is charismatic, smooth and incredibly loving, Hyacinth is organised, stubborn and unbelievably romantic. I love them both so much!! Their relationship is organic and heats up very fast and I like the touch of steam in the book 😏🥰

The subplot evolving their sisters Temi and Pip is brilliant as well, the women learn about themselves and teach each other to skills to be independent which is awesome!!

My main issue with the book is the ending, I just don’t get why it just ended so quickly?? There was so much build up to something big and then…nothing?? It just seemed to be a continuation of the same level and then the book just finished? Not that I wouldn’t read the next one, I’m fully invested in these two!! 😍😍 ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5

What I adored the most about this book was probably the poem by Emily Palermo in the very beginning. It fit the story beautifully, and is one of the most moving poems I‘ve read.

I am not familiar with Ovid‘s original story of Apollo and Hyacinth and therefore cannot evaluate how closely this retelling followed the original story, but either way I enjoyed this book a lot. It actually reminded me of Red, White and Royal Blue but in a very different setting for obvious reasons.

The world building in A Veil of Gods and Kings focused mostly on the gods (though it’s not clear to me yet how the Greek and Roman gods‘ separation comes about) and the actual place in which the story is set relies heavily on the map at the front of the book. Still, I managed to follow the plot easily enough, but I would like to learn some more about the world in the sequel.

The character dynamics were very well developed and I adored all of the main characters - Apollo and Hyacinth, Temi, and Val and Epiphany all had their own unique characters and flaws, and I loved how their friendships developed.

My only point of criticism is that I sometimes didn’t manage to stay focused on the story due to the writing style. It was very descriptive and flowing, but in a way that I found myself accidentally skipping paragraphs because for some reason it wasn’t very immersive.

4/5 stars.

The beginning of this book was promising. I enjoyed the sibling relationships between Temi and Apollo, and Hyacinth and Epiphany.
I liked Apollo’s snarkiness toward Hyacinth. They both seem superficial and arrogant to one another in the first few days they know each other. As they spend time together, they realize they’re more similar than unlike. They help each other faces their fears.
Hyacinth fears he’s been entirely ignorant to his peasants well-being.
Apollo fears becoming cold and callous when he ascends into godhood.
Temi and Epiphany become close friends. Temi takes her out of the palace for the first time while Epiphany teaches her how to ride a horse.
At about 60% it got too boring. The romance wasn’t compelling. All that happened was the inevitable time ticking down till Apollo had to leave and Epiphany had to marry. This was hard to finish. I won’t be reading the next book in the series unfortunately.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review! The idea of this book was so cool; Apollo is the son of Zeus that has to ascend to become a true God. I enjoyed the ideas behind this book, however, the writing tended to bore me at times. I felt like the romance between Apollo and Hyacinth could’ve given a bit more enemies to lovers. With that being said, I adored Pip and Temi! Both characters definitely made this book a better read for me and their interactions were probably my favorite part of the book.

Let me start by saying, a lot happened in this book yet it feels like nothing happened.

I did like the Greek mythology storyline, the characters were likable, enemies to lovers, and I really enjoyed the multiple POVs! I can see how this would really appeal to people who really like Greek mythology retellings!

Hyacinth is a very capable prince, Apollo sounds like a moody teenager, and Temi is a complete badass! Love her! I wish I could handle weapons like her!!

I feel like the story really didn’t go anywhere and it was a lot of Apollo judging Hyacinth. I did feel like Epiphany’s chapters were unnecessary…. It felt like it was totally out of place and didn’t really add to the main storyline.

I wouldn’t go into it for the spice because it’s very minimal. Not a bad thing but just giving a heads up!

Thank you NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-Op for the gifted copy e-arc for an honest review!

I have been in a month long slump and this book is what got me out of it! I adore the characters and world building, the characterization of apollo and ares was so good and intriguing. Usually I would say this book and romance was to fast paced with all of its time skips, but I think I actually needed this type of pacing right now to get me out of my slump.

Rep: Bi, Gay, MLM, aromantic, POC
CW: implied sexual content, sexism, past parent death

As someone who has always loved classical retellings and been interested in the myth of Apollo and Hyacinth, I absolutely devoured this book. Clear your schedule when you sit down with this because I was telling myself just ‘one more chapter’ all day. All of the characters came to vibrant life in this tender and sweet romance. As the first in a series, this book focuses more on the blossoming romance between Apollo and Hyacinth alongside setting the stage for what’s to come. Not very heavy on Ancient Greek politics or intrigue until the final pages, this is the perfect book to warm your heart. In addition to the sweet romance is the beautiful platonic love that grows between Apollo’s mortal sister, Temi(who identifies as asexual), and Hyacinth’s sister, Epiphany, as they work to make the kingdom a better place for women. I absolutely adored this book and I desperately need the sequel!

4 stars!

Finally a book that's a different retelling than Hades/ Persephone. Don't get me wrong I love those, but following Apollo's and Hyacinth's story thought reimagined was amazing! The writing is well rounded and feels very natural. The characters are interesting and feisty in a sense that they feel authentic and the plot itself was really refreshing! Usually I'm not a big lover of multiple pov's but this gave me all the right feelings.
Overall such an amazing book and I would a 100% recommend!

(Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review)

A Veil of Gods and Kings is a reimagining of Apollo and Hyacinth set in a fantasy world inspired by Greek mythology.

The characters are the driving point in this book, and I love them all dearly. Still, I would have loved to see a lot more worldbuilding, as the places and culture felt kinda flat :/

The book also has little to no plot, focusing mostly on Apollo and Hyacinth’s hate to love story, as well as Epiphany’s (Hyacinth’s sister) life as a princess wanting to escape her life. Though the end strongly implied that we’d see more action in the next book so I can’t wait to see the story continue in the sequel!! (I’m also crossing my fingers for a Temi pov in it)

If you’re a fellow Greek mythology fan and like character-driven books, I highly recommend A Veil of Gods and Kings!!

(Posted to Goodreads and StoryGraph on 20.04.22)

There were several aspects I liked about this:
Enemies to Lovers trope? Sign me up!
Greek gods as main characters? I LOVE it!

I also really enjoyed the plot lines for the side characters. Epiphany and Temi, the sisters of the two main characters, are fed up with the patriarchy and want to change something about their situation. I am all for feminists takes on mythology so I am excited to see what those two get up to in the next book of the series!

However, I did struggle a bit with the actual romance part of the book. I feel like we barely got enough interactions between the two characters to believe their development from enemies to friends to lovers or to be fully invested in their relationship.

Nevertheless, the ending was a pretty great set up for the next story, so I am definitely looking forward to see how everything develops!

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a free copy in exchange for an honest review!

Thank you to Netgalley and Victory Editing for the e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.

A Veil of Gods and Kings is the first book in Nicole Bailey’s Apollo Ascending series. It follows Apollo, a deity who refuses to take his position as god of the sun until one day his father gives him an ultimatum. Apollo can either ascend immediately, or he can train under the arrogant Prince Hyacinth. Apollo chooses to spend the year mentoring with Prince Hyacinth, and has they grapple with their disdain for one another an unexpected fire begins to burn between them and new emotions start to form.

I really enjoyed the different approach to Apollo’s story, and how easy the world and plot was to understand while also keeping the intrigue of the mythological and romance side of the story. I was a little hesitant to read this as Apollo isn’t one of my favourite Greek Gods, but in this story I really enjoyed him and the version that the author created. There is also a nice slow burn romance that has the hate-love trope, and lots of sexual tension which I always love. Both of the main characters learn to respect each other and constantly push one another to try new things.

If you enjoy Greek Mythology retelling, hate-love tropes with lots of sexual tension and a little sprinkle of spice, beautiful writing that helps you imagine the world, then this book may be for you!