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Down Among the Gods
Two lonely people, a chance meeting at an adult education class, an almost instant attraction. But why do they keep misunderstanding each other, missing each other? What is it that conspires to keep Jessie and Patrick apart? This is an urban romance with a difference; a tale of mortals acted by immortals.
288 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1998
3 people are currently reading
50 people want to read
About the author
Kate Thompson
65 books154 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name.
Kate Thompson is an award-winning writer for children and adults.She has lived in Ireland, where many of her books are set, since 1981. She is the youngest child of the social historians and peace activists E. P. Thompson and Dorothy Towers. She worked with horses and travelled in India before settling in the west of Ireland with her partner Conor. They have two daughters, Cliodhna and Dearbhla. She is an accomplished fiddler with an interest in Irish traditional music, reflected in The New Policeman.
While Kate Thompson's children's fiction is primarily fantasy, several of her books also deal with the consequences of genetic engineering.
She has won the Bisto Children's Book of the Year Award four times, for The Beguilers, The Alchemist's Apprentice, Annan Water and The New Policeman. The New Policeman was also awarded the Guardian Children's Fiction Prize, the Whitbread Children's Book Award and the Dublin Airport Authority Children's Book of the Year Award for 2005.
Kate Thompson is an award-winning writer for children and adults.She has lived in Ireland, where many of her books are set, since 1981. She is the youngest child of the social historians and peace activists E. P. Thompson and Dorothy Towers. She worked with horses and travelled in India before settling in the west of Ireland with her partner Conor. They have two daughters, Cliodhna and Dearbhla. She is an accomplished fiddler with an interest in Irish traditional music, reflected in The New Policeman.
While Kate Thompson's children's fiction is primarily fantasy, several of her books also deal with the consequences of genetic engineering.
She has won the Bisto Children's Book of the Year Award four times, for The Beguilers, The Alchemist's Apprentice, Annan Water and The New Policeman. The New Policeman was also awarded the Guardian Children's Fiction Prize, the Whitbread Children's Book Award and the Dublin Airport Authority Children's Book of the Year Award for 2005.
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
June 15, 2014
This quirky little book was provided to me by NetGalley and Open Road Integrated Media so many thanks to them for the opportunity to read this book. It tells the story of two people, Jessie and Patrick both single and lonely in their own ways but when they both sign up for a life drawing class fate or rather the gods throws them together – which is what makes this story so interesting and throws a different and unique dimension on relationships and what may be pre-ordained in our lives. The novel is written mainly from the perspective of the Greek god Hermes who is widely known as the messenger of the gods and the story assumes that the gods we have heard about only in mythology are alive and well and in control of our romantic destinies. I studied Greek mythology in school for a short period and it was one of the reasons why I was drawn to this story. In this way I was not at all disappointed, I loved being reminded of the classic tales of Hera, Zeus, Aphrodite and Dionysus and enjoyed how they were integrated into a modern romantic tale in order to guide Jessie and Patrick’s blossoming relationship.
When Jessie and Patrick first meet they both have their own separate issues, Patrick is heavily influenced by the god of alcohol, Dionysus and struggles daily with his drinking problems. When Jessie and Patrick move to Wales and enjoy a more secluded lifestyle in the country where Jessie can concentrate on her writing, Patrick seems to have put Dionysus behind him and exists in a happy tee-total state enjoying working on their land and painting in his studio. As we are well aware though, life and relationships are not easy, nothing ever seems to go swimmingly and Dionysus rears his ugly head once more, threatening their relationship and unearthing hidden desires.
My favourite part of this novel had to be the author’s unique take on how our destinies are controlled by using the gods from Greek mythology. I found it an interesting take on love in the modern age and how we may be powerless to act against forces that have already decided our fate. Unfortunately I didn’t really get on with the character of Patrick too well! He had his demons and was trying to work against them that is a certainty, but I found him to be thoroughly unlikeable and as a result this affected my thoughts about his relationship with Jessie – in other words, I couldn’t really believe it. I do think that some people will thoroughly enjoy this novel and as I mentioned before, the mythology parts were excellent which is why I’m giving this book three stars. In general I think this book wasn’t really for me although I understand the author has won awards for her children’s fiction so I’m intrigued enough to give them a go!
Please see my full review at http://www.bibliobeth.com
When Jessie and Patrick first meet they both have their own separate issues, Patrick is heavily influenced by the god of alcohol, Dionysus and struggles daily with his drinking problems. When Jessie and Patrick move to Wales and enjoy a more secluded lifestyle in the country where Jessie can concentrate on her writing, Patrick seems to have put Dionysus behind him and exists in a happy tee-total state enjoying working on their land and painting in his studio. As we are well aware though, life and relationships are not easy, nothing ever seems to go swimmingly and Dionysus rears his ugly head once more, threatening their relationship and unearthing hidden desires.
My favourite part of this novel had to be the author’s unique take on how our destinies are controlled by using the gods from Greek mythology. I found it an interesting take on love in the modern age and how we may be powerless to act against forces that have already decided our fate. Unfortunately I didn’t really get on with the character of Patrick too well! He had his demons and was trying to work against them that is a certainty, but I found him to be thoroughly unlikeable and as a result this affected my thoughts about his relationship with Jessie – in other words, I couldn’t really believe it. I do think that some people will thoroughly enjoy this novel and as I mentioned before, the mythology parts were excellent which is why I’m giving this book three stars. In general I think this book wasn’t really for me although I understand the author has won awards for her children’s fiction so I’m intrigued enough to give them a go!
Please see my full review at http://www.bibliobeth.com
July 18, 2013
Down Among the Gods is a novel that follows the romance of forty year old Jessie and journalist Patrick. Both souls are lonely and searching, until they meet at a class. It's told from the story of the Greek Immortal messenger Hermes, a "modern" look at romance and emotions involved with starting over in a relationship.
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In short, I just found that this book was boring. I like the concept- the book is narrated by Hermes and is peppered with myths and legends surrounding the Greek gods and goddesses of Mount Olympus. I didn't really find any faults with this story, it just was too "chick-lit" for my liking. The writing was detailed but slow moving, the myths oversimplified but interesting. This book was perfectly adequate to read once, but it won't be long before I forget about this title. There's nothing that will make this book stand out to me.
I think that fans of chick literature, and women who are in an older age range than myself will appreciate this a lot more than I did. I cannot stress enough that this book simply was not my cup of tea. Do not let my rating hinder you. I sincerely hope that you enjoy it more than I could.
Thanks to Netgalley and Open Road Integrated Media for my copy of this book. This review can also be found on my blog, Bitches n Prose.
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In short, I just found that this book was boring. I like the concept- the book is narrated by Hermes and is peppered with myths and legends surrounding the Greek gods and goddesses of Mount Olympus. I didn't really find any faults with this story, it just was too "chick-lit" for my liking. The writing was detailed but slow moving, the myths oversimplified but interesting. This book was perfectly adequate to read once, but it won't be long before I forget about this title. There's nothing that will make this book stand out to me.
I think that fans of chick literature, and women who are in an older age range than myself will appreciate this a lot more than I did. I cannot stress enough that this book simply was not my cup of tea. Do not let my rating hinder you. I sincerely hope that you enjoy it more than I could.
Thanks to Netgalley and Open Road Integrated Media for my copy of this book. This review can also be found on my blog, Bitches n Prose.
December 21, 2017
A cut way, way above your average romance. This could have been just another nice love story, but for the author's very clever take on the interplay of the gods (form the Greek pantheon in this case). If you believe in fairy tales, soul mates, destiny and all that sort of thing, then you have to read this. If you're uncomfortable with the idea of not being the master of your own ship, or completely reject the idea, then you have to read Down Among the Gods. Very, very clever and totally engrossing..
I can't say too much more without spoiling the story but basically you have two very believable and empathetic characters who meet my chance (or so it seems) and begin a relationship. My only criticism is that these characters are a little too stereotypical ( I wanted to write the adjectival form of archetype), but the story is so wonderfully written and totally engaging that I didn't think about that at the time. I loved it.
I can't say too much more without spoiling the story but basically you have two very believable and empathetic characters who meet my chance (or so it seems) and begin a relationship. My only criticism is that these characters are a little too stereotypical ( I wanted to write the adjectival form of archetype), but the story is so wonderfully written and totally engaging that I didn't think about that at the time. I loved it.
March 17, 2020
All rather a case of Deus Interruptus to me...
Without any recollection of the Gods, their stories intertwined with a contemporary story held little to no appeal and neither enhanced my memory nor encouraged me to look further. The modern story seemed a mix between stereotypes and whimsy..down and out alcoholic turns out to be a fine artist meets woman writer who doesn't write and they move to an "idyllic" house in Welsh mountains where he is dependent upon her financially.
No need for Gods to unravel what could go wrong
Without any recollection of the Gods, their stories intertwined with a contemporary story held little to no appeal and neither enhanced my memory nor encouraged me to look further. The modern story seemed a mix between stereotypes and whimsy..down and out alcoholic turns out to be a fine artist meets woman writer who doesn't write and they move to an "idyllic" house in Welsh mountains where he is dependent upon her financially.
No need for Gods to unravel what could go wrong
December 2, 2017
quirky love story ...
gone wrong intermingle with Greek mythology.
gone wrong intermingle with Greek mythology.
January 24, 2021
Pulled me right in.
I am in a "fascinated by the gods” phase right now and this was delicious.
I am not usually into "romances" - this felt deeper and darker than the usual Romance.
I am in a "fascinated by the gods” phase right now and this was delicious.
I am not usually into "romances" - this felt deeper and darker than the usual Romance.
January 15, 2023
Interesting idea but never took flight
December 3, 2013
Read more book reviews at Book Junkie Joint.
A realistic portrayal of a destructive relationship between two opposite individuals, ingeniously crafted to involve the workings of Greek gods, and their complicated relationships with one another! Brilliant and captivating!
I found the beginning of the story cute because of the unique meeting of the two protagonists. I find Patrick's grim thoughts disconcerting, but it was balanced out by Jessie's positive outlook. From the onset of the story, it was easy to tell that they were very different individuals and they practically have nothing in common, except being in an art class together.
Plot-wise, I really found the story unique and pleasantly different from all others. It was told from the perspective of an unlikely audience to a human relationship. It's interesting because a god, Hermes nonetheless, actually took an interest in the affairs of two very ordinary humans. He even took time to explain how the gods and goddesses affect each individual, hinting very early on why Patrick and Jessie's relationship just wouldn't last.
The second thing that I really loved about this book is the plot device using Greek gods and goddesses. I'm not a huge fan of mythology but the way Greek mythology was included in the story made sense. Hermes explained the influence that the gods and goddesses have over humans in a logical, and almost believable manner. It's like reality and mythology was logically tied up together in this little treat of a book! In the middle of reading the story, I actually thought, 'Ah, I must be influenced by Athena', which meant that the book actually drew me in.
Character-wise, I was more in tune with Jessie than with Patrick. It would be easy to just blame him for all the misfortunes in his life, but as Hermes explained the roles that gods and goddesses play in the affair of humans, I was saddened by the fact that he ended up being a disciple of Dionysus/Bacchus. I was a bit glad when he began anew with Jessie, but his downward spiral was really disheartening. I understood why it had to happen though. I just didn't like it.
As for the way it was written, I found the story-line somber but captivating. There were times that Hermes, as the narrator of the story, cracked up a few witty wisecracks. In general though, the feel of the story was downcast. Personally, I liked it just the way it was, but from when I began reading, I easily guessed that this story wouldn't be something that everybody would be eager to read.
Lastly, I loved the ending. It wasn't what I was hoping for, but it was perfect for the story.
A realistic portrayal of a destructive relationship between two opposite individuals, ingeniously crafted to involve the workings of Greek gods, and their complicated relationships with one another! Brilliant and captivating!
I found the beginning of the story cute because of the unique meeting of the two protagonists. I find Patrick's grim thoughts disconcerting, but it was balanced out by Jessie's positive outlook. From the onset of the story, it was easy to tell that they were very different individuals and they practically have nothing in common, except being in an art class together.
Plot-wise, I really found the story unique and pleasantly different from all others. It was told from the perspective of an unlikely audience to a human relationship. It's interesting because a god, Hermes nonetheless, actually took an interest in the affairs of two very ordinary humans. He even took time to explain how the gods and goddesses affect each individual, hinting very early on why Patrick and Jessie's relationship just wouldn't last.
The second thing that I really loved about this book is the plot device using Greek gods and goddesses. I'm not a huge fan of mythology but the way Greek mythology was included in the story made sense. Hermes explained the influence that the gods and goddesses have over humans in a logical, and almost believable manner. It's like reality and mythology was logically tied up together in this little treat of a book! In the middle of reading the story, I actually thought, 'Ah, I must be influenced by Athena', which meant that the book actually drew me in.
Character-wise, I was more in tune with Jessie than with Patrick. It would be easy to just blame him for all the misfortunes in his life, but as Hermes explained the roles that gods and goddesses play in the affair of humans, I was saddened by the fact that he ended up being a disciple of Dionysus/Bacchus. I was a bit glad when he began anew with Jessie, but his downward spiral was really disheartening. I understood why it had to happen though. I just didn't like it.
As for the way it was written, I found the story-line somber but captivating. There were times that Hermes, as the narrator of the story, cracked up a few witty wisecracks. In general though, the feel of the story was downcast. Personally, I liked it just the way it was, but from when I began reading, I easily guessed that this story wouldn't be something that everybody would be eager to read.
Lastly, I loved the ending. It wasn't what I was hoping for, but it was perfect for the story.
July 17, 2013
What I love about this book is how it manages to seamlessly merge reality and the imaginary. It is a typical love story with a – really interesting twist in that it is told by Hermes. I loved the constant intervention by the Greek Gods and Jessie and Patrick’s insistence that it was the other controlling the relationship. This made for a fun read.
Thompson’s writing is insightful, real and captivating. It’s rare to find a completely novel concept or approach to a book, but this manages both. I found it easy to delve into this book; it would make a perfect holiday read.
4/5 stars
I received an advanced reader copy from the publishers Open Road Media in exchange for an honest review.
August 16, 2009
A chicklit-ish story of the romance between Jessie and Patrick, told from the perspective of the god Hermes, who explains it as a power struggle between Her and Dionysus. British, well-written, entertaining. I probably won't remember having read it a year from now, but that's ok.
February 23, 2016
A little gem. The love story between Jessie and Patrick is narrated by Hermes, messenger of the gods, and reminds us that we are all in thrall to the gods and goddesses whether we know it or not. Funny, touching but not in the least sentimental. Highly recommended.
September 27, 2009
Just about the right side of ok, but a bit too chick lit for me. An interesting concept well executed, but totally forgettable.
November 8, 2013
I liked the concept but not the way it was written.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews