First, I want to start by saying that Alexandra Bracken's writing is good, in that it is precise and well-done, and her comments on

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anger overcoming us, and the value of compassion, are really well-done and unique for a story like this

.

That being said, this is genuinely one of the few books I just can't bring myself to finish. This is really honestly a "me" problem- I don't like New York City, I don't like dark books, I don't like bleak books, and after hours spent playing Hades, I am honestly a fan of those capricious, maddening Greek Gods we all know and love (and especially

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stiff, rather awkward Athena who touchingly calls Zagreus "cousin"

. Yes,

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some of the Greek gods in Lore aren't terrible

, but the general point is that the Greek gods are awful, and so are all the people who still "enjoy" their benevolence. Reading this book is honestly like continually getting punched in the gut, and while I was gripped whenever I could bring myself to get back to reading it, it would always cast such a dark pall over my day. Again, I think a lot of people will love this book (and clearly do), but if you're anything like me, and you like your fantasy to be pretty hopeful/funny/optimistic, then I strongly suggest not picking this up.