Solstice

Sep 23, 2012 oliviasbooks rated it 1 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: young-adult-fiction, scifi-dystopian-apocalyptic, e-version, self-published, urban-fantasy-paranormal, gods-demons-angels-immortals, greek-norse-roman-mythology, read-2011, love-triangle, love-story-romance, parallel-worlds-dimensions, a-jerk-is-a-jerk, not-afraid-of-sex-in-ya, wring-her-neck

*** Oh, yes! There will be plenty of spoilers. *** But first, let’s have an authentic taste of the story:
"'I'm Shayne. Remember?' [...] 'We've been sitting by each other all year,' he says. I glance around the room and notice half the girls in the class staring at him. But he either doesn't notice them or doesn’t care. It’s like he only has eyes for me." ... and ...
"'I would do anything for you, Piper. Anything you want'. Reese won't take his eyes off me. 'If I can’t have you, it'll kill me.'...more

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Jul 26, 2011 Christie rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: read-in-2011

P.J. Hoover has created a frightening dystopian world, and paired it with a plot full of fascinating mythological elements. It is unlike any other dystopian or fantasy novel I have ever read. This is a book that readers will have trouble putting down. You will find yourself craving the same answers Piper is searching for and unable to stop reading until you discover them alongside her.

Not only is the world in Solstice wonderfully developed, although a little nightmare inducing, but the character...more

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Jun 14, 2011 Demetra rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: young-adult

P.J. Hoover has painted an original dystopian world with a skilled and vibrant brush. The thick weight of Piper’s personal oppression, handed out by her mother, is coupled with the humidity and heat of a dying city in crisis. Once the world had settled into my lungs, not even the mist of the cooling gel, administered by the council in the great city of Austin, could rescue me. I was hooked.

I am an enormous fan of Greek mythology, and this book doesn’t fail to deliver. If you love Greek Myths, a...more P.J. Hoover has painted an original dystopian world with a skilled and vibrant brush. The thick weight of Piper’s personal oppression, handed out by her mother, is coupled with the humidity and heat of a dying city in crisis. Once the world had settled into my lungs, not even the mist of the cooling gel, administered by the council in the great city of Austin, could rescue me. I was hooked.

I am an enormous fan of Greek mythology, and this book doesn’t fail to deliver. If you love Greek Myths, and you love stories about the Underworld, SOLSTICE is a must read, and here’s why…

This version of Hades is, well, quite frankly, hotter than hell.

Once embroiled in the love triangle between Piper, Shayne, and Reese it was easy to become consumed by their passion. This is not the typical, two boys fighting over one girl scenario, but a struggle for power and control, wrapped around a girl, that unfolds like a delicious ambrosia-laced treat.

Piper’s best friend Chloe adds an intense dimension to the story, which makes for the catalyst of many nail-biting events. Who knew a simple rebellious trip to get a tattoo would result in as much uncertainty, suspicion and doubt? But one thing becomes clear; if you’re going to get the word sacrifice tattooed around your bicep in Greek letters, you better be ready for what might come to pass. Thankfully, main character Piper is up for the challenge. She faces her mother’s disapproval with ease, and once she has that win notched on her belt, she's ready to face one of The Fates, Aphrodite in disguise, and a host of Underworld villains all too ready to make sacrifice the name of the game. Well played, P.J. Hoover. Well played.

This story has only been released as an e-book. But it was simple to download the Kindle app for my PC and to my Android. This was my first e-book experience, and I’m glad to say I’m a convert. Because if this is the only way I can read a book of this quality, I’m doing it. And for the $2.99 purchase price, you can believe me when I say it is well worth the swoon-factor P.J. Hoover brings to the screen (or the page). It is hot. Like, Hades hot. I’m talking Underworld hot. As in Global Heating Crisis hot. You can trust me on this one; I am a descendant of the Greeks after all.
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Jul 15, 2011 Kristin Rae added it

Shelves: own, young-adult, ebook, favorites, dystopian

Solstice is fascinating! This was recommended to me and I really didn't know what to expect. It completely surprised me. I got pulled in from the very beginning. Great writing, CLEVER story--a fantastic mix of dystopian and greek mythology that I recommend to fans of either.

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Jul 06, 2011 Lisa (Bookworm Lisa) rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2011, received-to-review, dystopian

I love books about Greek Mythology. To me it's all about capturing the ideas and beliefs of an ancient civilization. The stories have always held a particular spot in my imagination. It's been great for me to see books coming out that capture the Greek myths and bring them into modern civilization.

Piper lives sometime in the near future where the world in in perpetual summer. The temperatures soar and threaten all life. Many of the creatures and plants have died. Life revolves around escaping th...more

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Jun 02, 2011 Jen (The Starry-Eyed Revue) rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: mythology, dystopian-post-apocalyptic, magic-time-travel, 2011, texas

This review also appears on my blog: The Starry-Eyed Revue.

Wow. I was really excited to read this story, but I'll admit that I had doubts as to how the author was going to tie mythology into a dystopian-themed novel. Consider those doubts assuaged. This is more of a mythology-themed novel with a dystopian setting, and the author threaded the mythology into the storyline seamlessly.

Ah, the setting. How apropos is it that I started reading this story on my Memorial Day trip to Austin, TX -- my sec...more

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Jul 04, 2011 Vivian rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: reviewed, e-arcs, 4-stars

I love reading dystopian novels and when I found out this book had Greek mythology in it, a topic I'm fascinated and in love with also, I jumped at the chance to read/review and be a host in P.J. Hoover's Blog Tour. I have to admit, this book is more Greek mythology than dystopian world, but it ties in together nicely and you can see the result of one due to another.

It's been so long since I've studied mythology I had to go back and read the tale that this story retells. Hoover does a great job...more

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Aug 02, 2011 Jen Bigheart (I Read Banned Books) rated it 4 of 5 stars

This book is HOT, like slap your goat hot! I literally drank like 27 water bottles while reading this story. I was completely swept away into Piper's scorching world from the words "buy now with 1-click." The Global Heating Crisis is in full swing and there is a looming threat that at any moment every single thing on Earth will die. Piper lives in Austin, Texas *fistpump* and the city is under a giant heat bubble. Temperatures rise to 130+ and the town is in panic mode. Piper's mother sits on th...more

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Sep 16, 2011 Madeline Smoot rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: teen

This is the kind of book that I found myself thinking about long after (I mean weeks after) I initially read it. The characters and situations are compelling and memorable. I can't wait for the sequel!

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Oct 06, 2011 M.L. John rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

After eighteen years of endless summer, Earth is dying a slow, hot death. Oceans are wastelands of dead fish, deadly heat bubbles threaten to wipe out entire cities, and the soil is so desiccated
that plants are in danger of extinction. This is Piper’s reality, and her domineering,
overprotective mother makes it even more suffocating.
Piper’s best friend Chloe is her only outlet from the bleak reality within and without. However,
when Piper rebels by secretly opening a mysterious birthday present an...more

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Sep 29, 2011 Yvette rated it 5 of 5 stars

I am a very big fan of Greek Mythology – so much so that as a kid in high school, I spent weeks making a Medusa mask out of paper, bin liners and paint. So when Solstice landed in my hands and I read the summary, I was very, very excited.

And this book did not disappoint.

We meet Piper in the middle of what could be a very real situation for us all in a few years. Austin, TX is in the middle of a global warming crisis. The temperatures are in their hundreds and there is an appointed committee tryi...more I am a very big fan of Greek Mythology – so much so that as a kid in high school, I spent weeks making a Medusa mask out of paper, bin liners and paint. So when Solstice landed in my hands and I read the summary, I was very, very excited.

And this book did not disappoint.

We meet Piper in the middle of what could be a very real situation for us all in a few years. Austin, TX is in the middle of a global warming crisis. The temperatures are in their hundreds and there is an appointed committee trying to find ways to solve it – albeit their methods are not always the best ones. Add to that an overprotective mother who calls her numerous times a day, doesn’t let her out of her sight and definitely doesn’t allow her to see boys; and we have a female lead who is close to suffocating in more ways than one. It’s up to Chloe, Piper’s best friend, to help Piper have a bit of normality in an otherwise abnormal lifestyle. Add two very prominent males – the tall, dark and handsome Shayne; and the blue-eyed, blond-haired Reese – to Piper’s life and complicated is taken to whole other level. And when Chloe’s life is threatened, Piper discovers a whole realm of secrets that sends her life into a tailspin.

But where’s the Greek Mythology element? As Piper soon finds out, her life in Austin is far from ordinary and as Chloe is on the brink of death, Piper discovers that the Underworld and the Gods that run it are very much alive and well and fighting their own crisis. Throughout Solstice, we are introduced to some of the most well known characters of the Underworld including Charon, Minos, Cerberus, Radamanthus and of course, Hades. And without giving too much away, we also encounter some of the gods residing in Mount Olympus, some of whom are not quite what they seem.

Piper soon discovers that her connection to the Underworld is far more complex than anyone could imagine and she is the key to not only solving the global warning threat; but also the crisis that is threatening to destroy the Underworld empire. She also has to deal with the the complication of being attracted to Shayne yet unexplicably drawn to Reese, in addition to fighting against her mother’s rather extreme wishes. With three people depending on her to make a decision that could change not only her life, but the future of the ‘world’ itself, the question is, which path will she choose?

There are many elements of this book that gave me what I call an ‘OMG’ moment. I gasped at the unexpected and grinned on many occasions as the story progressed. The twists are in no way predictible, and that’s what gives this book a sense of originality in a highly populated genre. At the heart of the book is a story of love, friendship and betrayal and you don’t have to be knowledgable in the world of Greek Mythology to fall in love with the story or the characters. And like every good book with male love interests, you find yourself wondering which side you should choose – ‘To Die For’ Shayne or ‘Bronzed Adonis’ Reese. Me? I’m Team Shayne all the way.

This is a story that you will simultaneously want to devour in one day, yet savour chapter by chapter. I already have made plans to read it again and again and again.(less)

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Jul 24, 2011 Emily Ward rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: ya, kindle, fantasy, own, dystopian-post-apocalyptic, romance

Wow! I stumbled upon this author on a blog (The Bookshelf Muse), and the first thing that caught my eye was that cover. Great job to whoever did that! I read a couple sentences of the blurb and got the sample from Amazon.com. But I really had no idea what it was about other than the dystopian setting of the global heating crisis. So, going in, I had pretty much no idea where it was going, and it was really cool reading it that way! Reading without any preconceived notions, just enjoying the book...more Wow! I stumbled upon this author on a blog (The Bookshelf Muse), and the first thing that caught my eye was that cover. Great job to whoever did that! I read a couple sentences of the blurb and got the sample from Amazon.com. But I really had no idea what it was about other than the dystopian setting of the global heating crisis. So, going in, I had pretty much no idea where it was going, and it was really cool reading it that way! Reading without any preconceived notions, just enjoying the book for what it was - great writing!

Enough about me - onto the book. It starts off as a "typical" dystopian, introducing the reader to the world of the future. Piper's world is stuck in the Global Heating Crisis. It's been summer for eighteen years and there's no end in sight. There heat bubbles, cooling gels, little air conditioning, missiles to dispel the heat bubbles, domes to protect people. It's a fascinating world that probably could have been a novel in and of itself, but then we start to see inklings that there's more to Piper and her family than meets the eye. She receives a mysterious box for birthday present. She meets a guy who says he's known her for a year. P.J. Hoover soon pulls you into a world of mythology with finely crafted language that constantly kept me wanting more.

This book was addicting! When I wasn't reading it, I was thinking about when I'd have time to. When I was reading it, I was forcing myself to slow down. The world is so vivid; it's like I could feel the heat. There were lots of twists, and it kept you guessing (although I knew what was up about two thirds of the way through, and I was yelling at Piper to get it). It's so imaginative, too. I want to see this on film. I think it would be awesome. I'm definitely not an expert in Greek mythology, but my high school was pretty big on it, and I loved revisiting some of those myths and also seeing a new take on them.

There were times when Piper seemed to passive, but overall, I liked her. She grew into herself, for sure. There were some great characters and concepts. I liked the author's take on the Underworld.

I really, REALLY liked this story. I recommend it for any young adult or dystopian or mythology or Indie readers. Or just anyone, really. It's a very enjoyable read, and I can't wait for more from this author. I hope she writes a sequel. I'd be all over that. (less)

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Jul 19, 2011 Tee loves Kyle Jacobson rated it 5 of 5 stars Recommends it for: Everyone

Recommended to Tee loves Kyle Jacobson by: P. J. Hoover

Warning: This book is CALIENTE! HOT… HOT… HOT….

My Rating:5 Hot Blazing Suns!

My Cover Thoughts: The artist for this cover really kicked BUTT! There is this beautiful girl standing over earth looking into the horizon. You get this feeling like she is talking the sun and asking why it is so hot here on earth. The sun is shining on her face and you get a glimpse into what she is thinking.

My Thoughts/Review: Okay let me first start out by saying I really did not think I was going to like this book....more

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Jun 12, 2011 Felicia Chien rated it 5 of 5 stars

E-Book: Solstice by P. J. Hoover
Pages: 189
Genre: Young Adult, Dystopian, Greek Mythology, Romance

Short Synopsis: As the temperature continues to rise, the world is in a global warming crisis. All the while, a young girl named Piper, is caught up in her own problems. She has a controlling mother, two new love interests, and a best friend whose about to die.

My Thoughts: I’m usually not a fan of dystopian literature, but I was totally intrigued by this book, and absolutely adored it!
In this nove...more

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May 12, 2011 Katie M rated it 5 of 5 stars

Piper lives in a dystopian world where global warming is an uncomfortable reality. All things green and lush are now dead. Cooling gels are sprayed in public areas to keep body temperatures down; even though many people can get severe allergic reactions to it.

Piper's mom is pretty overprotective. She doesn't want Piper to get a boyfriend, have a boy over to do homework with, etc. Inevitably, Piper wants to rebel.

Shayne and Reese go to Piper's school. Seemingly, they've been there all year, yet...more

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Jan 24, 2012 Sarah Kalaitzidis rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: dystopia

This book I wasn't planning to read it any time soon, but my kobo messed up and poof here it is and I've read it. I knew it was going to be about Mythology, but what I didn't know is that it would be about Greek Myths and that the author would take it on a whole new level. A world going into a massive heating crises and the gods are the cause, with a twist as to who. I was so drawn into this book I even told my friend about it who loves Greek myths.

The Characters are so well written in the terms...more This book I wasn't planning to read it any time soon, but my kobo messed up and poof here it is and I've read it. I knew it was going to be about Mythology, but what I didn't know is that it would be about Greek Myths and that the author would take it on a whole new level. A world going into a massive heating crises and the gods are the cause, with a twist as to who. I was so drawn into this book I even told my friend about it who loves Greek myths.

The Characters are so well written in the terms of the gods, my friend knew what god was which way before I learned it. The way the author describes Ares is hot but can't compare to the Ares from the show Xena. He is so drool worthy, I had a major crush on him when Xena played on tv. To bad he died in a horse accident before the show was over. Though believe me when I say the Ares in the book looks nothing like Ares in Xena.

Anyways Piper the main heroin in the book is both strong but weak towards her mother. She wants to rebel but her mother is so smothering not letting her go out or even date. I hate her mother so much because of how she acts towards her daughter, not letting her breath with how close she hovers. Though you learn later why that's the case. Chole Piper's friend is annoying, she knows the dangers and ignores it. I couldn't stand her at the beginning and I still couldn't stand her at the end. For Hades I had to think hard on not picturing the guy from Xena. The way the author described him he is so hot, especially the eyes. It would be so cool to have his eyes!

The romance is really slow, she had to choose between two boys, which cause her to struggle to pick one. She had a connection with one but the other she felt drawn to him like she couldn't turn away. She had to realize who she is first before anything went further. Though when it does it's sweet and romantic and I would give anything to be in her shoes.

The plot was great, everything fitted well, the plot worked out for the best. Though I gotta say this book went further then I thought a young Adult book should go. A few times when they described Aphrodite, I was just so surprised, not to mention how there was also a penis described in it as well. I just believe it's a bit more then just a normal Young adult book with all the references. Doesn't mean I didn't enjoy it though, I'm just saying the way they described stuff is way beyond a normal YA book hehe!!.
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Aug 02, 2011 Shari rated it 4 of 5 stars

After reading the statement in the book synopsis "dystopia meets mythology" I wondered how that was going to mesh. The two aren't typical partners. However, the author certainly entwined the two naturally and wonderfully.

I found myself immersed into the dystopian society quite easily. Given that Global Warming is a (no pun intended) hot topic of today, the next level of disaster as a Global Heating Crisis was easy to buy into. The measures taken to combat the heat, the UV etc were imaginative y...more

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Jan 05, 2012 Kristine rated it 5 of 5 stars

Each time I read a book that I completely fall in love with I find it difficult to muster up the words to write a review. This is the first book I've read that included a dystopian world, which makes me both fearful and excited. Fearful that the other dystopian novels may not be as completely amazing as this and excited at the idea that there may be some that are as great, if not better (if that's possible).
The fact that this book is so heavily laced with mythology just makes it even better. Wh...more

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Jun 05, 2011 Ashelynn rated it 3 of 5 stars

Solstice is an okay book. I wasn't moved emotion wise, and I didn't hook me right away. I like the mythology to the dystopian part, even though this book focuses more on the mythology rather than the dying world. I did like how it wrapped everything up at the end. I would have never guessed it what mythology story it was a retelling of, though. That was a nice surprise.

One thing that did bother me was the love at first sight. Shayne and Reese both exclaim "I love you!" right away and Piper's all...more

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Jun 16, 2013 Lexie rated it 3 of 5 stars

So I just finished this book today and I decided to wait a few hours before I wrote this review. I never knew that this book was coming to me and I'm so thankful for being sent an early finished copy. With that being said I had no prior knowledge about what this book was about before going in. Just looking at the cover I could definitely tell it was going to be a dystopian. But after I started reading, I discovered this book was much more than your typical Earth is destroyed dystopian. Now to be...more So I just finished this book today and I decided to wait a few hours before I wrote this review. I never knew that this book was coming to me and I'm so thankful for being sent an early finished copy. With that being said I had no prior knowledge about what this book was about before going in. Just looking at the cover I could definitely tell it was going to be a dystopian. But after I started reading, I discovered this book was much more than your typical Earth is destroyed dystopian. Now to be honest, it wasn't my favorite and there were some moments were I just wanted to put it down and read other things. But I decided to push through a see the book to the end, and overall I would recommend this book to a friend, but it wouldn't be something I wanted to re-read.

The beginning of the book is hard dystopian, with Global Warming destroying the Earth. But then the book takes on a new element, when we learn that the Greek myth Gods are real, and our main character Piper just discovered life wasn't as normal as it appears. Now I have to be honest, I've never read any books about the Greek Gods. I mean the brief stuff I do know is from the Disney version of Hercules. So with my lack of knowledge, I did think that the setting is vividly built and the mythology is expertly woven. P.J used myth to explain trouble in the future the same way people explained trouble in the past was truly phenomenal.

My main problems with the book was with Piper's mother and the boys especially Piper's relationship to them. At the beginning I could see the appeal. Both were your typical YA hunks and Piper’s mother was, overprotective **cough, cough** I mean crazy. If I was Piper, I would've lost my brain with a mother like that, I kept screaming at the book trying to tell Piper "REBEL WOMAN", if only fictional characters could hear us. So when Piper started getting all this attention I could see the appeal and draw to the freedom and attention such boys could promise. Throughout the entire book I was Team S, but once I got done reading I honestly could care less who Piper ended up with.

I’m having a really hard time scoring this book, and I’ll tell you why. If this book took away the creepy romance, I think I would've enjoyed it so much more. I really enjoyed the Mythology and thought P.J. did an amazing job bringing it to life, also thanks to this book I will start looking into other YA mythology books. The world was so good, but the romance plot and its dysfunction turned me off of an otherwise great read. In conclusion, I loved the Mythology and the values Piper learned, just wished the romance could've disappeared. Will recommend to a friend. (less)

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Apr 26, 2013 Teresa Bateman rated it 4 of 5 stars

Piper lives in a dystopian world where global warming has created a climate that kills. Are solutions working, or worsening the problem? And, like any teenage girl, she's having to cope with friends, cute guys, and an overly protective mother. Oh, and the world may be ending soon because of the heat. Typical YA fantasy novel. Then it takes a twist and suddenly we're talking Greek mythology. Piper's visiting the underworld with that cute guy who turns out to be Hades, but that other cute guy...wh...more

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Jul 08, 2011 Aimee rated it 4 of 5 stars

When I first read this was a dystopian meets mythology book, I was so unsure how it would all come down. I'm still not sure I would label it as dystopian because at the beginning, it seemed like it was, but then when you find out what is really going on, it really is more mythological. Right? Because the reasons for the Global Warming have to do with mythology.

Anyway, no matter how you label it, this book turned out to be one of the most compelling books I've read in awhile. Talk about a page tu...more When I first read this was a dystopian meets mythology book, I was so unsure how it would all come down. I'm still not sure I would label it as dystopian because at the beginning, it seemed like it was, but then when you find out what is really going on, it really is more mythological. Right? Because the reasons for the Global Warming have to do with mythology.

Anyway, no matter how you label it, this book turned out to be one of the most compelling books I've read in awhile. Talk about a page turner! I polished it off fast and I've been thinking about it for days. I really loved the face paced nature and the tension in this book. I enjoyed how the story gradually unfolded to me. The underworld was fantastic and I swear I could picture it like a movie in my mind. Having lived in AZ for years, I could even feel the heat! :) I thought Piper was a fabulous character, real and caring, yet strong too.

Here's my trouble with the book, and I realize that I'm not going to be in the majority with this way of thinking. The dude in the underworld that grabs his penis and throws it around? Really? Was that needed? All that talk about it was just unnecessary for me. I didn't even think it needed to be there to accomplish the goal of the scene. The other thing was when it talked about Piper's nipples getting hard when "he" touched them. (wouldn't want to give too much away here) Another thing I just didn't think was helpful to the book's progress. I wouldn't want my young teenager to be reading that. Can't we just leave it at kissing?

Ugh, for me, if you leave out those couple of things, I would be raving love about this book. Those things just make it a bit icky for me. There was also some mild swearing and frequent profanity.

Having said that, I will say that P.J. Hoover has a real talent for writing. Her story here was such a good one and I really enjoyed reading it. I love books that leave me thinking about them for days to come. And I love when a book can pull me into it. Not all books can do that.(less)

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Jun 09, 2011 Kris rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: favorites, paranormal, ya-books, books-reviewed

Solstice is the best mythological-based book that I’ve read all year!

The events of Solstice take place in the future of Austin, Texas, where 99 degrees is the new low. The effects of global warming are becoming a reality with heat bubbles taking large numbers of lives and Austin’s government worsening the global warming issue instead of helping. Piper’s mom is on the council and disproves of the way the council handles the situation, but she doesn’t speak up. Instead, she’s satisfied working wit...more Solstice is the best mythological-based book that I’ve read all year!

The events of Solstice take place in the future of Austin, Texas, where 99 degrees is the new low. The effects of global warming are becoming a reality with heat bubbles taking large numbers of lives and Austin’s government worsening the global warming issue instead of helping. Piper’s mom is on the council and disproves of the way the council handles the situation, but she doesn’t speak up. Instead, she’s satisfied working with her plants at Botanical Haven, their private greenhouse, and overshadowing Piper in her obsessive desire to monopolize her daughter.

As the story progresses, Piper realizes that there are secrets surrounding her identity. She has always believed that her father is a criminal, but now she learns that her mom lied to her. Melina, a frequent customer at Botanical Haven, gives her a mysterious box for her birthday. And the two new guys at school? Well, everyone else believes that Reese and Shayne have been there all year, and so do they, so she goes along with their ideas.

When I learned Shayne’s true identity (the first that you’ll discover), I’ll admit that began to think that this book would turn out to be just another one of the up and coming mythology books. However, P.J. Hoover introduces yet another twist to her dystopian novel: the fact that Piper is one of the gods.

Once the gods step in, this story becomes less dystopian and more mythological/paranormal as Piper uncovers clues as to whom she really is. I’ll tell you this. While I was disappointed that there wasn’t more focus on impending world doom, it made me fall in love with the story all over again. Piper doesn’t go on action-filled quests to save the world, but she does discover her identity—and along with it, she finds love. It’s not destiny, nor is it not forbidden love (excluding Mom’s daughter complex). It’s pure love.

I must say that the ending left me feeling empty. Hoover does give us a feel for how events will turn out: Piper finds her rightful place, and we have a feel for what will happen to the “bad guys.” However, the bad guys have yet to be judged, and anything could happen. She also leaves us the question of whether or not the balance in the world will be righted. The book would have been all right by itself since Piper’s back in her rightful place, suggesting that everything’s all right now, but… there’s a sequel, which means more trouble for Piper. Which means I expect answers in the sequel!!

P. J. Hoover turns the gods and goddesses into very realistic personalities. Hades is moody, mysterious, yet caring and responsible about the Underworld, which he rules wisely and justly. I enjoyed looking at the three areas of the Underworld through Piper’s eyes. Cerberus is so very doggy and lovable. Ares is cruel and arrogant, the very manifestation of the God of War that he is. Aphrodite is manipulative and vain. Zeus is easygoing and open about his affairs. As for Demeter? Well, you see another side to her that you’d never think to see. And it’s interesting, real, and adds spice to this story.

Solstice is a real page-turner of a novel. I couldn’t stop reading it from the moment I read the first lines. I recommend Solstice for readers looking for a good mythological read, a story of true love, the journey of self-discovery, and some steamy scenes with hot gods.(less)

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Jun 09, 2013 Grace Fonseca rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

A really different take on the young adult dystopian genre. Piper is definitely a heroine with a unique story. I really love how the mythology is a part of the story along with the world being on the brink of destruction. The mythology aspect was what drew me to this book.

I love books that have good solid world building. Throw in some mythology and it should work. What I liked about this book is that there were some pretty intense things going on with the world that Piper lives in. Piper’s worl...more A really different take on the young adult dystopian genre. Piper is definitely a heroine with a unique story. I really love how the mythology is a part of the story along with the world being on the brink of destruction. The mythology aspect was what drew me to this book.

I love books that have good solid world building. Throw in some mythology and it should work. What I liked about this book is that there were some pretty intense things going on with the world that Piper lives in. Piper’s world is in a state of disarray and the environment is people’s biggest concern as the environment has gone to hell and it’s become an ecological horror. The realism of this world is something that could possibly happen in the near future if we are not careful.

Piper’s relationship with her mother is a difficult one to say the least. I actually find that this relationship is very different as Piper seems like a teenager that is planning to have a life that doesn’t include her mother in it. Yet her mother doesn’t want her to go. I think her mother would be very lonely if that happened. Plus her mother is very controlling and in some ways you don’t understand this need to control her daughter. Her mother doesn’t want to be alone and this is played up a great deal in their relationship. Also the fact that they both run a shop/garden that’s holistic in nature is how they survive.

One of the more interesting aspects is the love triangle that is done here. Normally, I hate love triangles in Young Adult books, but here it’s done realistically. Shayne, Piper, and Reese all meet each other when they are in high school. Yet you feel like that both Shayne and Reese are hiding something when they first meet Piper. Shayne and Piper really seem like a typical situation Girl meets Boy. Boy and Girl meet, get to know one another. Things happen. Reese and Piper however have this explosiveness when they are together.

Piper’s relationships are so different with both guys. You feel that both guys could realistically compete for her heart, but none of them are what they appear to me. Piper is not what or whom she thinks she is. I like the great way that PJ Hoover has twisted the Greek Mythology to fit a dystopian world and it’s because of the actions of Piper’s mother. What I like is that you got two competing Gods vying for the attention of Piper who herself is someone very well known in Greek Mythology.

Lots of things are happening in the second part of the book among the Gods, the Underworld and Piper in some ways becomes a stronger person and wants to live her life the way she wants to live it. Not the way her mother wants her to be. Zues is also a key figure in this book. I really like how some of the minor characters in the books are Gods trying to cause chaos and mayhem in the mortal world. This added a real sense of classical tradition of the Greek mythology to the world.

Also really like the lengths that Shayne and Reese go to get Piper to choose them. These are two men who are both determined to get the woman they both obviously love to choose them. Yet the one that Piper picks was so the right choice. Choosing someone who has your back and is willing to do anything for the woman he loves is one of the great romantic traditions.

I think the mythology of using the Greek Gods and nature was one of the pivotal things that I loved about this book. The way the author integrated the mythology and made it unique for a modern audience was a nice touch and really made this dystopian stand out in a really good and unique way.

Rating: 4.5 Hearts(less)

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Jun 19, 2011 Pat rated it 5 of 5 stars

Though SOLSTICE is written for the teen market, it's a book which, in my opinion, has great crossover appeal. The author blends the worlds of mythology and global warming and creates a story that is believable as a possible glimpse into our future. Each character and setting has been given exquisite detail and transports the reader directly into the scene. And the twists on mythology were clever to say the least. I've been a fan of P.J. Hoover since her books for younger readers came out (THE EM...more

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Jun 03, 2011 Amanda rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2011

Actual rating is more of a 4.5.

This book was intriguing and once I started reading, I couldn't put it down. I loved the mix of the Mythology and the Dystopian world.

The reason I only gave it a 4.5 is I wanted more of the Dystopian world. The world sounded incredibly interesting and while parts f the world were described, the world building was just not quite all the way there. The parts that are described (and some of the technology) is fascinating but parts left me wanting more. There are also...more

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Aug 07, 2011 Karen rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: favorites

Man oh man. I never thought I'd fall in love with the Lord of the Underworld, but I certainly did. I'm always up for a great twist on mythology, and Solstice was a hot (literally), sexy, exciting, and original story that kept me turning the pages--well, hitting the NEXT button on my Kindle--until the end.

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Jun 02, 2011 Kai (Amaterasu Reads) rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2011-tbr-pile, teens, for-review

Review posted at Amaterasu Reads

In Solstice, the world is dying, and Piper's in the middle of the slow devastation of the Earth. She'd seen the horrors of what the extreme heat can do in Austin and everything the government does worsens the Earth's condition instead of helping it get better. On top of that, she's been under the shadow of an overprotective mother all her life, and they're running away from a father she didn't really know. What Piper isn't aware of is that the secrets that surrou...more Review posted at Amaterasu Reads

In Solstice, the world is dying, and Piper's in the middle of the slow devastation of the Earth. She'd seen the horrors of what the extreme heat can do in Austin and everything the government does worsens the Earth's condition instead of helping it get better. On top of that, she's been under the shadow of an overprotective mother all her life, and they're running away from a father she didn't really know. What Piper isn't aware of is that the secrets that surround her may also be the key to saving the world she'd live in all her life. But Shayne and Reese, the two new guys at school hounding her, make it seem like choosing one over the other makes it a matter of life and death not just for her but for her home.

For all her flaws that were made obvious throughout the book, Piper is a likeable character. But I did have a hard time relating to her especially when her feelings just swings back and forth easily between the two guys. When she was with Reese, she longs for Shayne and when she's with Shayne, Reese would randomly pop up in her mind and she would swoon for him. However, her almost instantaneous shifts of feelings shows the readers the struggle within her.

P.J. Hoover was able to mold mythological characters into believable teenagers of today. If Gods and Goddesses were certainly living in modern times, this is how I thought they would behave. The modern Ares still possess the arrogance of the God of War, and Hades retains his somber, withdrawn but strong qualities that made him the Lord of the Underworld no matter what time he is in. I do think I fell in love more with Hades, with the addition of Charon as well as Cerberus who will also charm the readers!

Though I wish for more emphasis on the fact that the world might be ending, to feel more urgency that it was indeed falling apart, P.J. Hoover was able to make it an integral part of the story strong enough to make it a driving force that moves the plot along.

I loved every single moment I've spent as the plot unravels right before my eyes, piece by piece, one secret at a time. Solstice is a page turner, a story that you just can't put down, can't stop reading until you reach the end. Readers will journey through the depths of Hell together with Piper, and face the terrifying fact that the world is on a meltdown of huge proportions.

Reminiscent of P.C. Cast's The Goddess of Spring, Solstice is a Young Adult novel of intense romance in a modern world still surrounded by myths, Gods and Goddesses. The world about to come into an end serves as a great backdrop of an olden tale with a modern twist. Solstice is a fantastic blending of mythology and dystopia and true to its word, they did meet.

I highly recommend this book to fans of mythology based books who are searching for something new, something romantic and intense and hot, with lovely writing and a great flowing pace!
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Jun 17, 2013 Katrina Tinnon rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

3.5

I love reading books that happen in my home state. I love them even more when ridiculous heat is mentioned. Let's face it, living in Texas sometimes is like living in one of the inner circles of Hell. (This little rant could be because I worked outside yesterday, and I swear the thermometer was lying. It was insanely hot.)

Now that I'm off my little rant session, here's some book love coming at you. I always find it amazing when authors can mix mythology and dystopian themes. P.J. Hoover did...more

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Jun 02, 2011 Montanamarynotmartha rated it 5 of 5 stars Recommends it for: Young Adults and Adults that love books for young-adults

Shelves: 2011, young-adult, paranormal-fantasy, dystopian

Okay, I love to gush about good books but this time you're getting a geyser!

Author P.J. Hoover has written a thrilling, twisting-turning story about Greek gods living in the near future - two of which are fighting for the love of Piper. Piper's seemingly dull, sheltered life erupts into a fast-paced journey back and forth between the Underworld and her present-day teenage life. To say it was a journey of self-discovery is putting it mildly. P.J. Hoover BLASTS you with a shocking surprise about...more Okay, I love to gush about good books but this time you're getting a geyser!

Author P.J. Hoover has written a thrilling, twisting-turning story about Greek gods living in the near future - two of which are fighting for the love of Piper. Piper's seemingly dull, sheltered life erupts into a fast-paced journey back and forth between the Underworld and her present-day teenage life. To say it was a journey of self-discovery is putting it mildly. P.J. Hoover BLASTS you with a shocking surprise about her main character and has you wondering night and day if she'll end up with Shayne or will Reese trick her into his arms? Oh, wait - maybe Reese is who she should be with? Idunno - I'm with Piper, one minute I'm certain, the next not sure. All of creation depends on her choice. And for you adult-teenagers that love YA, Hoover ads just enough steam to keep the romance real and earth-crackin' hot.

And the settings - the seemingly-dystopian world (or is it really suffering a dystopian effect?) Piper keeps you imagining the heat, the protective domes over the city, and the urgency of seeking shelter from the sudden heat waves all give your imagination a work-out. Add to it the other happy/creepy she visits to the Underworld and you will be in fiction-opia yourself!

And the Mythology - while I don't worship Zeus, I always loved Mythology - aren't they really just stories that we share with centuries past? Strong characters built in- imaginative stories passed on for generations to enjoy. I love that P.J. Hoover has resuscitated them and brought them new life - making them relevant in modern times. A refreshing change from vampires and dystopia.

An added thumbs up to the fantastic writing here. She kept me so engaged - I read this on my phone! This was my first experience reading an e-book through and I read it everywhere - at baseball practice, at work during lunch, and even after work at 1:30AM. Dr. Seuss would have write a rhyme about me! I can't believe I got this much entertainment out of a $2.99 download that took me only seconds to purchase.

I can't say it enough don't throw away another $4.99 to rent a movie - download this book! Your summer reading list is begging you to put the cherry on top!

I give Solstice 5 stars ***** in Orion's belt!

You can find Solstice at Amazon, Barnes & Noble and RootsInMyth (pjhoover.blogspot.com) Also, if you are like me and can't get enough - you can sign up to receive a scannable trading card with story-extras. We're talking fun now! You have got to see these cards! Tanni (creepy-girl) and the beautiful Chloe and her beaus Shayne and Reese and more. See RootsInMyth at pjhoover.blogspot.com for a chance to receive a card.
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