Review: We Are the Match by Mary E. Roach

Mary E. Roach delivers a bold, intoxicating reimagining of Helen of Troy, set against the backdrop of modern-day Greece’s criminal underworld. In this sapphic twist on the classic tale, Helen is the daughter of a powerful mob boss, expected to marry for strategic gain. But when she crosses paths with Paris—a fierce rival with a vendetta—desire and danger intertwine in ways neither of them can control.

Roach masterfully crafts an opulent world where power plays and forbidden romance collide. The chemistry between Helen and Paris is electric, simmering with tension as they navigate their feelings amid the high-stakes world of crime lords and shifting alliances. The novel thrives on its lush prose, immersive atmosphere, and the constant threat of violence lurking beneath the surface of every interaction.

While the plot leans heavily on slow-burning tension, some moments of the romance feel slightly rushed in contrast to the otherwise careful pacing. However, the novel’s exploration of loyalty, identity, and defiance in the face of destiny makes for a gripping read.

Daring, decadent, and charged with passion, We Are the Match is a riveting, modern retelling that breathes fresh life into an age-old legend!