The Aftermyth

The Aftermyth #1

by Tracy Wolff

In a world ruled by the tenets of Greek mythology, one girl’s fate is more than it appears in the first book in a new dark academia fantasy middle grade series from #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Crave series Tracy Wolff.

What’s your myth?

Penelope Weaver has spent her whole life preparing to attend Anaximander’s Academy, where students learn how to bring to life the stories of Greek mythology as well as discover the Greek god whose principles they most embody. Penelope knows she’s an Athena—all smart, practical, and rule-following girls who take part in stories that matter are Athenas.

But when Penelope and her twin brother Paris arrive at Anaximander’s, it appears fate has other plans. Penelope isn’t placed with Athena but with students who are anything but practical and who prefer parties to rules. And that’s just the beginning. She’s given the world’s worst muse, her assigned tasks feel impossible, and the magic of Anaximander’s is overwhelming. Not to mention, there are two very different boys making her new life even more confusing.

But as things go from bad to dangerously worse, one thing becomes in a world where everything is fated to happen a certain way, some stories need to be rewritten. As the world around her shifts and cracks, Penelope is asked to forget everything she thought she knew to help create a better story…even if that changes every plan and breaks every rule.

Genres: Fantasy, Middle Grade, Mythology, Romantasy, Childrens, Dark Academia, Young Adult

448 pages, Hardcover

First published February 3, 2026

About the author

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Tracy Wolff is a lover of vampires, dragons, and all things that go bump in the night. A onetime English professor, she now devotes all her time to writing dark and romantic stories with tortured heroes and kick-butt heroines. She has written all her sixty-plus novels from her home in Austin, Texas, which she shares with her family. tracywolffbooks.com

Reviews

[Billie's Not So Secret Diary · Rating 2 out of 5]

The Aftermyth
by Tracy Wolff
The Aftermyth(?) #1
Fantasy YA Middle Grade
Booktrovert eARC (NetGalley)
Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing
Ages: 12+

Penelope and her twin brother were raised to become Athenas when they start to attend Anaximander's Academy, just like their parents. But when they arrive to begin their first year of learning the stories of Greek myth and the Gods' principles, Fate has another idea for Penelope, and throws Penelope's structured life right off a bridge.

While her brother is placed in Athena, Penelope is not, and her muse, even though she's powerful, she also has no idea how to be a muse. But at least Penelope has a new best friend, plus the support of her classmates, also there's a strange boy who appears in the oddest of places, and together they discover some stories didn't tell the entire truth.


Think HP with the MC yelling at you while she tells you the story. Yeah, that is how this first-person middle school story felt. I don't know what her age was, if it was even told, but she felt like a ten-year-old, but she's also ogling boys (and teachers) like she's sixteen, which is a tad inappropriate for the targeted age!

It's not a bad story, but the HP inspired stories (sent off to magical school, being 'sorted' into houses) are getting overdone. I know school is a major setting because it's where kids spend most of their time, but it's getting too predictable.

As for Penelope, I feel sorry for her because her parents 'groomed' her to be a snob. It's no wonder why it feels as if she's yelling while she tells her story. I can see the why and what future could be coming.

Even though it wasn't a bad story and had some original ideas, I do not see myself continuing with the series.

2 Stars

[sophie · Rating 1 out of 5]

thanks to simon & schuster for the review copy. however if you gave this five stars respectfully i need you to check your house for a gas leak.

i had a lot of fun reading it, i can’t deny that, but it’s also the Least book i’ve ever read — the plot was nothing, the pacing was diabolical (250 pages = one day but the book is set over the course of a year??), the title is never explained, everything was resolved with a hand wave and “because i said so” ass logic, and the characters were either boring or annoying or both. why did tracy write an “academic” greek myth-based fantasy if she doesn’t put any love and care and description into any of things? baffles the mind.

mostly i felt like it was written by someone who doesn’t give a shit about her audience or the subject matter, she just wanted the money from people who have already read and loved percy jackson, and probably knew it would be easy to market as a hairy porper-type series. but unlike those books, there literally wasn’t a single redeemable or interesting thing happening up in here - and it also commits a grave middle-reader sin, spoilers, where it reinforces the message that if someone calls you the wrong name for long enough, that’s just your name now and you have to accept it. girl HUH??? i can forgive a lot, but not that, and not the absolute lack of effort that went into this shit-tier slop. kids deserve better, readers deserve better, and the fact that there were manuscripts passed over in favor of publishing this just because it has tracy wolff’s name on it is a CRIME. yikes !

[nicole · Rating 1 out of 5]

as this book is not yet released yet (genuinely thank you simon & schuster for the arc ), i’m not going to be quite as mean as i usually am with a tracy wolff review.

so i think the nicest thing i can say is that this is the Least Book i’ve ever read from her. everything is setup for the upcoming series and things to be explained later….i guess… at the expense of tracy wolff forgetting that her book also needs to have a self contained plot in and of itself to function. as a story.

also: i was deeply, deeply confused by the lack of world building in this one and the choices made in regards to what greek mythology was included + how that’s done.
i can’t quite tell if the aftermyth requires its audience to know greek mythology already before reading it, and if that is the case, a lot of things in here do not make any sense if you have even a basic knowledge of who’s in the main pantheon. i don’t know how to convey this without massive spoilers. oh well.

sophie you’re up next. good luck in there 🫶

[Robin (Bridge Four) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart

Review copy was received from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

4.5 hearts

Penelope KNEW she was going to be selected into Athena's house when she finally went off to school with her twin brother.  Then she has the worst first day at Anaximander’s Academy imaginable starting with an icky tasting magic donut hole and ending with her not being selected to be in Athena's house.  She needs to figure out how to fix this, she needs to find a way to get out of the house she has been placed in and moved to the house her parents and everything else in her life before trained her for.  Just a few small obstacles to overcome.  Her new aggressively friending  roommate Fifi is great, Athena girls don't mix with the Hades house and it seems all the hot boys are in Hades and maybe, just maybe, the fates aren't wrong and she does belong with a different god if she is going to be challenged this year.

Loving both Percy Jackson and Harry Potter, The Aftermyth is the first book in a new series by the same name, was an easy win for me.  It took a lot of things I loved and put them into a brand new story that explores friendships, loyalty, taking a different path and figuring out how to be your own person.  Penelope was supposed to be an Athena girl but going off on your own lets you reinvent yourself and Ellie has a chance to see how some of the other gods houses live and explore some of the other ideals could be a better fit for her.

I enjoyed The Aftermyth's plot and getting to live in a new magic style school based on Greek mythology.  The students spend six years at Anaximander's Academy and each year seems to bring new challenges.  This year not only do students work towards getting their twelve labors assigned by the Gods, but there is also a magical scavenger hunt where the house that finds the most items on the list wins.  Ellie, might not be an Athena girl but she can help the house she was sorted into win the hunt to prove something not only to herself but also to the god that snubbed her.

This was a really fun Middle Grade type book.  I had a good time with the characters and the overall plot to this story.  There was a section that seemed like the book jumped a bit in the school year from just getting started to...oh we are almost done.  But, that didn't take away from diving into one of the Greek Myths and seeing what Penelope Ellie can do.  I'm sure there is a lot more going on there and I think her story is going to be a lot of fun.  The imagery, the lore and the Academy were just a good time.  While there might eventually be more of a romance in the story, I was glad that in this introductory book it stayed firmly in the friends zone with two potential love interests that could be explored later.  Perfect for a fun Middle Grade read.

“You know, Ellie, just because something doesn’t work out the way you think it should doesn’t mean it’s a waste of time.”
“I know that—”
“Do you?” Arjun asks softly. “Because sometimes the gods work in weird ways. And sometimes it’s the journey they’re using to teach you something— not the destination. But you’re always so focused on getting where you want to be that sometimes you . . .” He trails off awkwardly.
“Forget to stop and look at the tiles?” I fill in for him with a laugh.

[Candice · Rating 5 out of 5]

Percy Jackson fans, get ready! You only thought you knew the Greek gods and their stories. As Penelope Weaver realizes, stories can change in the telling. 

I'm a fan of Tracy Wolff's Crave series, so I was extremely ecstatic upon hearing that she has a middle grade debut coming out. We meet an eager (and anxious!) student named Penelope. She's been looking forward to starting her new magical school for ages, following in her parents' footprints. Who she's destined to be can now begin! But everything, like seriously everything, goes wrong. My heart ached for this poor girl. But she's brave, and smart, and resourceful, and kind so I couldn't wait to see how she would rise up.

Thank you to Simon & Schuster for the early manuscript!

[Cristy (Quinnbook) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story was full of adventure, wonder and new found family. Not only was the story filled with Greek mythology, the action sequences were incredible.

Penelope Weaver has been preparing her entire life to start school classes at the prestigious Anaximander’s Academy. Where students will learn about Greek myths and meet real life Greek gods. The way Penelope starts off is very interesting, as soon as she gets close to the academy she encounters tests to enhance her wits and test her knowledge. I loved how determined she was and she never gave up to make her dream come true. Of course the students will face trials and soon they’ll see what Pandoras Box will offer. This story was just so amazing, it’s hard to review because you want the reader to go in blindly and you will not be disappointed.

[Jan farnworth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Magic, mayhem, and the myth you make for yourself.

Every once in a while, a book comes along that feels like a big, glittery burst of fun — the kind of story that reminds you why you fell in love with reading in the first place. The Aftermyth, Tracy Wolff’s upcoming middle-grade fantasy, is precisely that kind of book. It’s whimsical, heartfelt, and just chaotic enough to keep you grinning from page one.

A Girl With a Plan… Until the Plan Explodes

Penelope Weaver has her whole life mapped out. She’s supposed to be an Athena — intelligent, calm, in control, the girl who always does the right thing for the right reason. But destiny, as it turns out, has a wicked sense of humor.
On her first day at Anaximander’s Academy, the magical school where students discover which Greek god aligns with their fate, Penelope gets spectacularly mis-sorted. Instead of the tidy, serious Athenas, she lands with the school’s resident chaos gremlins — the kids who treat rules like suggestions and treat danger like a sport.
Oh, and her muse? The absolute worst. Think: “please don’t help me, you’re making this worse” energy, but magical.

Why This Book Works So Well

What makes The Aftermyth shine is its mix of heart and hilarity. Penelope isn’t just battling magical mishaps — she’s fighting the very real fear of not being who she’s “supposed” to be. That pressure to meet expectations? Oh, it’s here. And it’s so relatable.
Wolff balances that more emotional core with a world that’s just plain fun. The academy is brimming with Greek-myth Easter eggs, unpredictable magic, and the kind of school challenges that would give any normal kid a meltdown — but Penelope faces it all with stubbornness, vulnerability, and a spirit that sneaks up on you.

Characters You’ll Root For

Penelope is instantly lovable — anxious, determined, and incredibly easy to connect with. Her classmates bring the perfect dose of humor and heart, and the two boys who complicate her life add a dash of sweetness without overshadowing the adventure.
This is very much Penelope’s story, and the book never forgets that.

The Vibes

If you love:

* Greek mythology with a modern twist
* Magical school settings
* Misfits who become heroes
* Stories about rewriting your destiny
…this one absolutely belongs on your radar.
Final Thoughts
The Aftermyth feels like the start of something truly delightful — a series that blends magic, myth, and middle-grade heart into a story brimming with possibility. It’s about finding your voice, messing up beautifully, and discovering that sometimes the wrong path leads you exactly where you were meant to be.
Tracy Wolff brings humor, warmth, and just the right amount of sparkle to this new adventure. I can’t wait to see where Penelope’s story goes next.

[Mildly Mad Hatter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Content:
Oh my gods several times
Gods and such
Lots of snakes

In all honesty, this was sooooooo good!!!!! I LOVED the story and the characters. It has the classic Greek gods and puts a twist on them that is so interesting. I especially love how it includes lesser known Greek myths and tells their story as well.
The main character was very good, she had her whole life planned and was told by everyone how it would go. But I love how she learned to see herself instead of who everyone said she was.
The friend group was so good!!! They supported each other and it was just so wholesome to read.
There was a bratty mean girl but the main girl handled it fairly well.
So, all in all, this book was very good and I highly recommend it!!

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the e-arc of this book!

[Sasha Schievink · Rating 5 out of 5]

Release date: February 3rd, 2026

Thank you so much to Simon & Schuster Canada for the advanced copy! I can't wait to share with book with my students when it comes out as well - I just know that many of them will enjoy this!!

This was such a fun start to a new middle grade series!! It's giving Percy Jackson × Harry Potter in the best way possible! Our main character Penelope goes through such fantastic character growth - from being uptight and anxious to learning to be a bit more creative and relaxed thanks to her new friends Fifi and Arjun. There is a lot of setup for future books, which kept me wondering throughout the book. There is clearly more than meets the eye going on at Anaximander's Academy...and I can't wait to read more!

[Deli · Rating 3 out of 5]

★★★½

I really enjoy Tracy Wolff’s writing and the funny chapter names. I also really liked the theme for this series, and I think it has a lot of potential, but if fell a bit short for me. I don’t think we got enough answers or plot for an entire book. Half the book was spent on the first day of school, which was fine to get context, but then the ending felt a bit rushed. I wish we’d gotten at least some answers on Hera and her potential house. That said, I will absolutely be continuing with the series, and am super curious to see where the plot goes from here.

[Kim Reads (Read Your Writes Book Reviews) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tracy Wolff is branching out into the genre of middle-grade fantasy.

In The Aftermyth, thirteen-year-old Penelope “Ellie” Weaver is beyond excited to attend Anaximander's Academy with her twin brother, Paris. After all, it’s a family legacy to attend the boarding school and become a member of Athena Hall.

However, a series of strange and unfortunate events quickly turns her excitement into what she considers the worst day of her life. She encounters snakes, gets lost in the woods, is soaked by a waterfall, and on top of all that, is selected for Aphrodite Hall, which is as different as night and day from Athena Hall.

At Aphrodite Hall, Ellie discovers that things are not always as they appear. While strange and unexplainable events continue to happen around her, Ellie gains so much more than she ever expected: true friendship, acceptance of those different from her, understanding of what it means to help someone just because she can, learning to embrace the unexpected, and making the most of what is given to her.

I loved The Aftermyth, with its enduring cast of characters and fun, teachable moments. I found myself not wanting it to end and immediately wishing for the next book. Ellie and her friends were great characters who have found a place in my heart. This is a story of friendship, found family, taking chances, and believing in yourself. The Aftermyth is the start of a series I am sure will become one of my new favorites.

~ Favorite Quotes ~

“Everybody has a secret.”

“Sometimes the goal isn’t really the point. Sometimes it’s how you get there that’s important.”

“How do you know what’s important until you look at everything?”

“Just because something doesn’t work out the way you think it should doesn’t mean it’s a waste of time.”

“Sometimes the gods work in weird ways. And sometimes it’s the journey they’re using to teach you something–not the destination.”

“Think of how many cool things you miss if you never stop to look.”

“Sometimes it’s okay to just have fun.”

**Received an ARC from the publisher and voluntarily reviewed it. Also personally purchased a hardcover copy.**

[Kristin Nolan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Aftermyth was written for a middle grade level but even being a 36 year old I loved this book. Tracy has done it again and written another amazing novel. I love Penelope and Fifi and Arjun!!! They’re the perfect trio together. I can’t wait for more from this series. I have so many unanswered questions.

[Rina ♡ · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is absolutely fantastic! As a big fan of Greek mythology, I knew I’d enjoy the premise, but it exceeded every expectation.

The world building is so vivid that I felt like I was walking the halls of Anaximander’s Academy myself. I only wish I could be sorted into a hall of my own!

The characters are unique and wonderfully real. Fifi is the kind of loyal friend everyone deserves, and Penelope (Ellie) quickly became my favorite because I connected with her so deeply.

This story took me on a fun rollercoaster ride, and I never wanted it to stop. The ending is beautiful and has me eager to dive straight into the next book!

If you love magical school adventures, found family, and stories inspired by greek mythology, I highly recommend The Aftermyth!

[Tori · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: 4/5
I received an eARC for my honest opinion.

I love mythology, so when I saw that this was a middle grade book centered around Greek mythology, I knew I had to pick it up and I’m so glad I did. The Aftermyth is filled with action, drama, found family vibes, and themes about self-discovery and understanding who you truly are. The plot was interesting and engaging, the world-building was well done, and I loved how vividly everything was described. It was easy to picture the academy and its challenges.

The story is set in an academy built on puzzles and riddles, where students learn about the gods and their myths but not all stories are told truthfully. As Penelope and Fifi dig deeper, secrets begin to unravel, and the twists and turns were handled really well. I especially enjoyed how layers of lies and hidden truths were slowly revealed, keeping me invested the entire time.

Penelope was a strong and well-written main character. She’s determined, loyal, and a little lost after realizing she may not belong in the Hall she thought would define her future. Watching her world turn upside down and realizing that this change might actually be a good thing for both her and the academy was one of my favorite parts of the book. I loved seeing her begin to step out from behind the shell she was taught to keep up and start embracing parts of herself she once felt she needed to hide.

The friendships truly shined in this story. The bond between Fifi and Arjun brought so much heart and warmth. Fifi instantly claimed Penelope as her best friend, nicknaming her Ellie, and fiercely standing by her side was everything. Arjun was another grounding presence who supported Ellie when she needed it most. Their loyalty and willingness to stand up for her made the found family aspect feel genuine and helped solidify this as a strong middle grade story.

Overall, The Aftermyth was a fun, heartfelt, and engaging read that blended mythology, mystery, and friendship beautifully. I can’t wait to see what myth Penelope uncovers next and how her story continues to unfold.

I want to thank NetGalley and Simon & Children for the opportunity to review this book.

[BUDAful · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a longtime fan of Tracy Wolff and a huge admirer of Greek mythology, I was immediately drawn to the premise of The Aftermyth, and I’m pleased to say it delivers far more than anticipated. Wolff blends classic mythological elements with fresh, imaginative twists, creating a world that feels both familiar and entirely new.
The worldbuilding is exceptionally vivid. The Academy is brought to life with such clarity that I often felt as though I were walking its halls myself. The incorporation of both well‑known and lesser‑known myths adds depth and richness to the setting, making the story even more engaging.

The characters are another standout. Penelope (Ellie) is so compelling and whose journey toward self‑discovery is handled with nuance and heart. Her growth, learning to see herself beyond the expectations placed upon her, felt authentic and relatable. The supporting cast is equally strong; the friend group is warm, loyal, and genuinely enjoyable to follow. Even the balanced moments never overshadow the story’s core themes.

The plot is fast‑paced, fun, and full of charm. It offers the perfect blend of adventure, emotion, and magic. The ending is especially satisfying and left me eager to continue the series. Readers who enjoy magical school settings, found family dynamics, and mythology‑inspired storytelling will find The Aftermyth a delightful and immersive read. I highly recommend it.

[Skye Elder · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay I will be honest, at the beginning of this book I kept thinking that it was slow but at the same time necessary events that were happening. But then I got to the end and was like:”you know, I really wish book two were out.”
So in conclusion, this book IS AMAZING!!!!!!!!!!! I don’t know why I took so long to read it and don’t know how I’m going to survive the wait for book two.
I still have a lot of questions(spoilers!)like why there’s only five main goddesses and gods and why no other gods were mentioned, why no one talks about Hera, and what is up with the snakes?!? (This is exactly why I can’t wait for book two😫. There aren’t any cliffhangers, just a lot of unanswered questions).
My favorite characters are probably Kyrian 97% and Penelope 3%
Definitely recommend reading this! It’s totally worth it!

[Jyoti · Rating 3 out of 5]

3,5*

I went into this with really high expectations: middle grade and Greek mythology (my favorite!). Unfortunately, it took me quite a while to get into the writing style and the story, and I never fully connected with it.

The series has a lot of potential, but the plot and world-building felt underdeveloped, and the mythology itself felt more referenced than meaningfully integrated. It left me confused at times.

That said, I did enjoy the adventure elements. They kept the story moving and made it a fun enough read.

[Maja (MyawithaJ22) · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was very excited in the beginning of this book. I felt like it had so much potential! But, as our main character continues on her adventure at the Greek mythology academy, you the reader, are left to fend for yourself when it came to the Greek mythology aspect. For many young readers, I think this will be an issue.

[The Bookish Elf · Rating 5 out of 5]

What happens when the universe itself seems determined to rewrite your carefully planned future? Tracy Wolff, the bestselling author behind the Crave series, ventures into middle-grade territory with The Aftermyth by Tracy Wolff, a mythology-infused tale that asks readers to question whether destiny is something we follow or something we create. This dark academia fantasy transforms Greek mythology from ancient history into living, breathing magic, where students don't just study myths—they become them.

Penelope Weaver has spent her entire life preparing for one singular moment: her sorting ceremony at Anaximander's Academy. Every member of her family has been sorted into Athena Hall, the house for the practical, intelligent, rule-following students. Penelope knows—absolutely knows—she belongs there. She's memorized all eleven volumes of Ancient Myths for Any Occasion, the Abridged Version. She's studied the gods, practiced her composure, and prepared herself mentally for the twelve labors that will define her academic journey. But when the sorting ceremony goes catastrophically wrong, Penelope finds herself placed in Aphrodite Hall instead, surrounded by glitter-loving, party-planning students who seem to embody everything she isn't.

The Architecture of Adolescent Identity

The genius of The Aftermyth by Tracy Wolff lies not in its magical boarding school setting—though Anaximander's Academy is magnificently realized—but in how it weaponizes that setting to explore the pressure of expectations. Penelope's journey mirrors the experience of countless young readers who've felt the weight of family legacy, academic pressure, and the terror of not measuring up. When her twin brother Paris is sorted into Athena as expected, the sting of Penelope's "failure" cuts even deeper. Wolff captures this sibling dynamic with painful accuracy, showing how success and disappointment can drive wedges between even the closest relationships.

The boarding school itself pulses with imaginative details that bring Greek mythology into contemporary focus. Students receive muses who guide them through their labors—though Penelope's muse, the disorganized and perpetually distracted Calliope, arrives hours late with Penelope's labor list crumpled and ketchup-stained in her pocket. The eternal fire that should burn in the amphitheater has mysteriously gone out. Moving mosaic tiles hide secrets in plain sight. And beneath the school lies something even more unexpected: a functioning subway system that connects to the Underworld itself.

Wolff's world-building shines brightest in these moments of mythological innovation. The concept of students being sorted by divine patronage creates immediate tension, but the execution goes deeper. Each hall embodies not just the characteristics of their patron god, but the stereotypes and limitations those associations create. Athena students are brilliant but rigid. Aphrodites are creative but dismissed as frivolous. These distinctions force readers to confront their own biases about intelligence, worth, and what makes a "serious" student.

Friendship as Revolutionary Act

Perhaps the greatest strength of The Aftermyth by Tracy Wolff is the friendship between Penelope, Fifi, and Arjun. Fifi—with her boundless energy, rhinestone heart stickers, and unshakeable confidence—becomes the antithesis of everything Penelope thought mattered. She's loud where Penelope is careful, spontaneous where Penelope is planned, and absolutely certain of her own worth despite others' dismissal of Aphrodite Hall. Arjun, thoughtful and kind, provides balance between them. Together, this trio demonstrates that the strongest magic isn't found in individual achievement but in genuine connection.

Their dynamic carries the emotional core of the novel. When Penelope accidentally discovers the Book of Death—one of seven objects in a school-wide scavenger hunt—she could have pursued glory alone. Instead, she includes her friends, valuing their perspectives and strengths. These moments showcase Wolff's understanding that middle-grade readers crave stories about loyalty and belonging as much as they crave adventure and magic.

The scavenger hunt subplot, based on the seven evils that escaped from Pandora's box, provides structure for Penelope's character development:

Despair (Unlightable Candle)
Disease (Empty Syringe)
Greed (Bag of Coins)
Conflict (Broken Hearts)
Envy (Emerald Key)
Pride (Shattered Mirror)
Death (Book of Death)

Each object represents not just a magical artifact but a lesson about human nature. Wolff uses this framework cleverly, allowing Penelope's quest to mirror her internal journey from rigid perfectionism toward self-acceptance.

Where the Myth Cracks

While The Aftermyth by Tracy Wolff succeeds as an entertaining adventure, it occasionally stumbles under the weight of its own ambitions. The pacing suffers in the middle section, where Penelope's repeated attempts to prove her worthiness to Athena can feel repetitive. Readers might find themselves wishing she'd embrace her Aphrodite placement sooner, though this frustration is arguably intentional—mirroring Penelope's own resistance to change.

The mythology sometimes feels more decorative than deeply integrated. References to Greek myths provide atmosphere and naming conventions, but the novel could function with different mythological trappings without significantly altering its core themes. Readers seeking the intricate mythological reimagining of Rick Riordan's work might find this approach more surface-level, though younger readers will likely appreciate the accessibility.

Secondary characters, particularly Paris and his new friend Rhea, occasionally veer into two-dimensional territory. Paris's transformation from supportive twin to dismissive Athena student happens quickly enough to serve the plot but feels emotionally rushed. More nuanced exploration of his perspective would have enriched the sibling dynamic that forms such a crucial part of Penelope's motivation.

The mysterious Kyrian, a Hades Hall student who helps Penelope navigate the Underworld, introduces romantic possibilities that remain underdeveloped. While this restraint is appropriate for the target age group, his character feels somewhat underutilized—a placeholder for future books rather than a fully realized presence in this one.

The Myth Weaver's Promise

Despite these critiques, The Aftermyth by Tracy Wolff delivers exactly what its intended audience craves: a protagonist they can root for, friendships worth believing in, and a world magical enough to escape into. Wolff's prose moves with energy and clarity, never talking down to readers while remaining accessible. Her experience writing for young adults translates well to this slightly younger demographic, maintaining sophistication while embracing the wonder appropriate for middle-grade fiction.

The novel's greatest triumph arrives in its final revelation: Penelope's true identity as the Myth Weaver, someone capable of rewriting stories themselves. This concept—that stories can and should be reexamined and rewritten—resonates powerfully. In positioning Penelope not as someone who learns existing myths but as someone who can change them, Wolff makes a statement about authority, tradition, and the power of questioning narratives we've been told are fixed.

Final Thoughts

The Aftermyth by Tracy Wolff works best when read as an exploration of identity formation rather than pure mythological fantasy. It speaks to readers navigating the gap between who they're expected to be and who they're becoming. While not without flaws, the novel offers genuine heart, creative world-building, and a protagonist whose journey from rigid perfectionism to flexible strength feels earned.

In the spirit of transparency and as testament to the peculiar ways books find their readers: this particular copy arrived via mystical publisher conduits—much like how Prometheus's unlightable candle found its way to Penelope. The publisher's generosity influenced access but not analysis; after all, even goddesses appreciate honest feedback.

[Doreen · Rating 5 out of 5]

2/2/2026 At the end of the book, I was literally doing the Adam Driver More gif, I loved this so much. Full review tk at TheFrumiousConsortium.net, probably later today.

2/2/2026 Later in the day, as promised:

Y'all, as soon as I finished this book, I was all Adam Driver Saying More gif. I'm actually kinda mad that I'm going to have to wait who knows how long before I get to read the next book in this series. Tracy Wolff has written something so fresh from what can often feel like a been there, done that premise. If you love retellings of myths at all, then you HAVE to check out this novel.

The Aftermyth opens with Penelope Weaver and her twin brother Paris being driven by their parents to Anaximander's Academy, the legendary boarding school where they'll soon start the rest of their academic lives. Penelope is super excited and super prepared. Everyone in her family went to Athena House, with the goddess of wisdom herself as their patron, so she's lived her entire life striving to be the perfect Athena Girl.

Things start going wrong almost from the beginning. Crossing the bridge to campus is an unexpected ordeal, and walking into the opening assembly late and bedraggled is hardly the impression Penelope wanted to make. Everything goes completely sideways though when Penelope isn't assigned to Athena House, with its smart, striving rule-followers. Instead she's sent to live in the campus' party house, presided over by another deity, with students who are mostly there for a good time.

Penelope knows that there must be some mistake. Maybe if she works hard enough, she can impress the goddess Athena and be transferred into the house where she really belongs, where Paris already is. But the muse who's been assigned to her seems to have no idea how to be helpful, and the list of Twelve Labors Penelope is meant to complete over the course of her studies is frustratingly vague. And that's all before it starts becoming clear that one of the gods might actually have it out for her.

While this action-packed and often hilarious book is allegedly a novel for Middle Grade readers, it's a surprisingly sophisticated look at the function of mythology and how it shapes societies. The big twist snuck up on me so stealthily that I, an aficionado of Greek myths since I was younger than this book's target audience, was absolutely gobsmacked by the reveal. I'd had questions earlier on about one fairly large aspect of the school that I eventually assumed was due to scope constraints; I have never in my life been so pleased to be wrong.

The Aftermyth might follow in the hallowed tradition of such blockbusters as the Harry Potter and Percy Jackson series -- and had early moments where it reminded me somewhat uncomfortably of playtesting my own tabletop roleplaying game Camp Elementa -- but it's so much smarter than either, as it challenges the ideas of fate and destiny and even story. It's so good, y'all. I adore how it invites readers to either learn the ancient Greek myths if you're unfamiliar with them, or reexamine and re-engage with them if you are. And unlike many other academia-set books, it sneakily undermines the idea that academic excellence is the primary purpose of school. The older I get, the more I believe that the point of life truly is the loving relationships we make along the way.

On a purely materialistic level tho, I love that I have a copy with snakeskin-sprayed edges. I actually ditched my Kindle to very much enjoy the sensory experience of this first edition instead. I highly recommend this gorgeous hardcover, but honestly think you should read this book no matter what format you can get it in.

The Aftermyth by Tracy Wolff will be published tomorrow February 3 2026 by Aladdin and is available from all good booksellers, including Bookshop!

[Caren Abousaab · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book for the most part. It had a Harry Potter/Percy Jackson vibe to it which I think was the point. It was a lot more young adult then I thought it would be but if it goes in the direction of six years at school one book per year than I assume the audience is meant to grow with the book.

I liked Penelope. She was a fun FMC. I enjoyed watching her get into Aphrodite and then doing everything she could to try and get into Athena Hall. It was fun. I liked most of her friends. Arjun was nice. Altho I was a little confused about his pronouns, sometimes Penelope referred to Arjun as they and sometimes as he so I wasn’t really sure. Could’ve been typos? But over all the character of Arjun was kind and funny and a good friend to Penelope.

I wanted to love Fifi. I just didn’t tho. She has no respect for other peoples boundaries. Penelope repeatedly tells her she wants to be called Penelope and she refused and then encourages everyone else to call her Ellie too. I didn’t like that. She’s also constantly trying to push her to do things that she isn’t comfortable with. She was super loyal and protective of her which is great but she also doesn’t respect what Penelope wants and pushes all of her ways on her. I know many people who are like that in real life. They have no respect for other peoples boundaries and when you try to stand firm on them they cry and play victim and turn you into the villain for having boundaries in the first place. The book kept trying to paint it off as she’s so cute and that’s her thing deciding on something for someone and then just making it that way whether they liked it or not. That’s not cute tho. It’s rude and eventually people stop wanting to be your friend when you’re so pushy like that. And I know by the end of the book Penelope is fine with the name and changed it herself and stated to eat more sweets and being more okay with the changes that fifi forced her to make but that actually bothered me more because it enables that kind of behavior. I would’ve liked it if she’d stood up to fifi more and not let her walk all over her and change everything about herself practically.

I was confused about the point of Sullivan. He was hardly in the story at all but he’s been one of the characters that the author has been advertising. He was there at the beginning and then he helped them through that task with the key. But he never showed up after. Kyrian was another we saw him at the beginning and then not again till towards the end. I wonder if he’s supposed to he like a descendent of Charrion, the guy who crosses the souls into the Styx on the ferry? Except they use a train now? Or maybe he is him? It felt like maybe they’re heading for a love triangle between Penelope Kyrian and Sullivan in later books. I hope not tho.

I was super disappointed in Paris, he was a really bad brother towards the end. And their parents suck also. They all basically turned on Penelope for not being in Athena hall. That wasn’t cool. I wish the book would’ve ended with her going home for the summer or something to see what that new dynamic is like but I assume the next book will start before school again?

I would’ve liked to see more Greek mythology in the book. There wasn’t much. I know they used the whole fire being out as a reason for why the gods couldn’t come but she got the fire back on at the end so why didn’t they appear then and there and say something? Also why are they even at the school? They’re like 13 and the school is 6 years so till they’re 19 or 20 they’re in the school? What about college? What kind of jobs will they get after? We needed more world building. This book fleshed out the characters a little better but still not sure what’s going on in the world.

I will probably read the next one but she needs to start working on the world building.

[Tonja Drecker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rich world building, whimsical touches, action, and middle grade awkwardness all pack together with dabs of Greek mythology to create an engaging read.

Penelope is an Athena woman just like the rest of her family and knows exactly what she has to do to stay in this lane, which is what she needs to have as the first day at Anaximander's, a bordering school to help students learn to fulfill the Greek mythology selves, arrives. But from the very first moments, nothing runs smoothly. After several exciting, strange, and dangerous incidences, she makes it to the first assembly just as it's coming to a close and is almost passed over, but with a very fought for coin in her hand, she shoves it into the school's gumball machine to be officially sorted into her group. While she has no doubt she's Athena, the gumball places her in the Aphrodite group. She's immediately greeted with open arms and finds an instant friend in Fifi, but Penelope can't accept being placed in the wrong group. She's an Athena girl, after all. But she has little time to only worry about this as she discovers a key to a huge puzzle known as the Pandora's Box and opens the door for the Aphrodite group to enter the school's biggest contest. While Penelope is driven to prove that she's a true Athena girl, she needs to convince the very hesitant Aphrodites to take on the challenge. But then, this is only the beginning of the adventure she's about to face.

The world building in these pages draws in, not only due to the school and Greek nods, but the author adds all sorts of fun details and situations to speak to middle graders while still leaning into a darkish direction with intrigue, secrets, and more. There are video game sessions, parties with tons of wonderful foods, constantly moving buildings, and all sorts of whimsical touches. On the other hand, the danger haunts the shadows and pokes its head with the promise of ever growing threats. While all of this hangs in the fantasy area, there are also moments of familiarity as Penelope deals with the usual social struggles of middle school (bullying, peer pressure, and such) and awkward situations such as facing the first day in a new outfit only to suddenly have super muddy shoes. Add the danger and constantly exciting twists, and it's a read and world to get lost in.

While this takes nods at Greek mythology and includes the gods with their characteristics, it also takes some unique twists to keep a fresh atmosphere. It circles more around the expected attributes and how Penelope (and the other characters) are expected to shape their lives, personalities, and paths after each one. As an academia tale, the school structure gives Harry Potter vibes but also holds aspects which remind of The School for Good and Evil and even Keeper of Lost Cities. The writing, characters, and situations fit nicely to the middle grade audience and fans of these above reads. At the same time, the flow and pacing reminds more of a young adult read. I even stopped to check the suggested age group about 50 or so pages in because of this. After all, it took 25% of the book just for Penelope to get through the first assembly. But even during the first chapters, it is, by no means, a boring read. Quite a bit happens to Penelope as she runs from one ridiculous, awkward, and unexpected adventure into the next. Let's just say she has quite the adventure even before the main adventure hits.

This is the first in what promises to be a very grabbing series, which I have no doubt it will be enjoyed.

[Ms. Yingling · Rating 3 out of 5]

ARC provided by the Publisher

Penelope Weaver has been looking forward to attending Anaximander’s academy, and being in the Athena house like her parents. Things start to go wrong from the very beginning; her parents can’t drive her and her twin brother, Paris, right to the dorm, and she is attacked by snakes on her way to the school. She’s late for the assembly, and arrives in front of the 500-600 students disheveled and muddy. When Anastasia Themis, the headmistress, has the students hunt for coins in the Hall of Legends, Penelope again has trouble. Using her coin in a giant gumball machine to find out her house, she is appalled to learn that she is assigned to Aphrodite instead. Luckily, fellow student Fifi befriends her, even though she calls Penelope “Ellie”. Anaximander’s has an unusual campus, in that the buildings are in different places everyday, and students each have a muse assigned to them. Penelope has Calliope, who is rather reluctant to help at all, although Fifi’s muse, Frankie, gives her 75 gumballs that she can chew to summon him. Aphrodite’s students have an epic party to welcome students, with amazing food, and they also have weekly movie and video game nights as well as a candy room and cookie baking times. Still, Penelope can’t help but yearn for the more staid, regimented life of Athena’s students. In Dr. Minthe’s class, the students find out about the myth for the year; Pandora’s Box. They are challenged to find symbols of the seven evils that were released, and Penelope manages to find the emerald key representing envy. She then convinces her house to participate in the year long competition, which they normally ignore. Penelope continues to have problems, which often include being attacked by snakes, and having odd things happen to her. She meets a boy from Hades house, Kyrian, who helps her get the second symbol, a book written in Attic Greek. Dr. Minthe’s is surprised that Penelope was able to travel into the Underworld to retrieve the tome, and more secrets come out about her abilities. I would not be surprised if this were the first book in a series.

Strengths: The world of Anaximander's academy has some good touches, such as the moving buildings, the awesome candy room, and the frequent parties. The Greek mythology is an always popular topic, and the houses uphold the standard perceptions of gods like Poseidon, Zeus, Hades, Athena, and Aphrodite, although there are some twists. Penelope's frequent problems, like her shoes getting dirty or Fifi calling her "Ellie" will speak to middle grade readers who frequently have their own days go wrong. While this could be a stand alone, the fact that there are still Pandora's symbols to be found and the year is not over could propel this story into several more books.
Weaknesses: It took Penelope almost 100 pages to get to the amphitheater for the welcome assembly. This pacing made me think that Wolff might be a young adult author, and sure enough, she has also penned the Crave series, where book one comes in at 575 pages. Also, even though I majored in Ancient Greek, I've never heard it referred to as "Attic" Greek. It's been 40 years since I've been in that field, though, so maybe terminology has changed.
What I really think: At 448 pages, this will be a hit with readers who like long fantasy books like O’Hearn’s Flames of Olympus or Messenger’s Keeper of Lost Cities.

[Jennifer Huberdeau · Rating 5 out of 5]

PROVIDED A COPY BY ALADDIN, AN IMPRINT OF SIMON & SCHUSTER.
The drive to the Berkshires was supposed to be the start of the perfect school year for Penelope Weaver. She’d arrive at Anaximander's Academy, join Athena Hall and everything would go smoothly. But then the mishappened doughnut hole happened.

Everything went awry when she ate that doughnut hole. Her twin brother, Paris, ate the rest of the doughnut holes, and her parents couldn’t make the rest of the journey to the school with them. Then, Paris disappeared on the bridge; she got lost and showed up late for the opening ceremony. What’s worse is that she was assigned to Aphrodite Hall, and no matter how hard she tries, she can’t convince anyone that it must be a mistake. Oh, and her roommate, Fifi, has given her a nickname and now everyone is calling her Ellie.

In Tracy Wolff’s debut middle-grade novel, The Aftermyth, Anaximander's Academy is a prestigious boarding school, where students learn to bring Greek mythology to life. There, students are assigned to dorms of the Greek gods they most emulate — Zeus, Poseidon, Hades, Athena or Aphrodite. With the help of their muse, the students complete 12 tasks that, upon graduation, grant them a special gift.

Ellie, as she’s now called, will soon learn that not everything, including the Greek myths she’s been raised on, is as it seems. She soon learns that Aphrodites aren’t the careless, unorganized partiers she’s always assumed they are, but instead are sensitive, caring, supportive and carefree friends.

As Ellie settles into Aphrodite Hall and slowly accepts she’s there for the time being, she’ll have to deal with her (terrible) muse and her cryptic set of tasks, figure out why mysterious things are happening to her, navigate her now-strained relationship with her brother and try to convince her hall that they can win the Pandora-themed scavenger hunt.

“The Aftermyth” is a perfect read for fans of Rick Riordan’s “Percy Jackson & The Olympians,” the “School of Good and Evil” or Netflix’s “Wednesday.” While the students of Anaximander's Academy are not demigods or have magical/supernatural powers, their families are definitely associated with and favored by the Greek gods (the specificity of that relationship has yet to be revealed), who, although absent in the first book for plot-related reasons, take an interest in their lives.
Why did I enjoy this book? First of all, I love Greek mythology, even when I don’t. Greek mythology is problematic for anyone who isn’t a man. Women and those labeled “other” are vilified. Pandora, created by two gods to punish Prometheus, is still blamed for unleashing great woe on the world. Why aren’t the gods blamed? Wolff is examining myths like “Pandora’s Box,” taking a deep dive into the stories and asking readers, “What if that isn’t the whole story?” What changes if we look deeper?
I also really enjoyed the mythological elements that were woven into the story and an overarching subplot involving a forgotten god, who seems to be making their presence known to at least one of the characters.
On another level, Wolff is keenly aware that tweens exist in a very precarious state. It’s a time when they begin to discover who they are and develop their own identity outside of their family and friends. Ellie is a perfect example of a young person beginning this journey. She’s known, or at least thought she’s known, who she is — an Athena girl. She’s embodied the Athena mindset — smart, practical, organized — that her entire family embraces. But once assigned to Aphrodite Hall, she begins to question if that mindset lacks some important things — compassion, support, empathy.
It’s also a time when friendships and bonds form or are tested. Ellie is feeling isolated from Paris, who is spending time with Athena Hall mean girl, Reya. At the same time, she’s bonding with Fifi, her bubbly roommate and hallmate, Aryun — her new besties. She’s also figuring out the two guys who have caught her attention, Kyrain and Sullivan. Are they friends? Could one of them be something more?
There are just so many great messages embedded in the text: It’s OK to not know who you are. It’s OK to be different. It’s OK to question things — you should question things. What happens when you consider things from a different perspective? All of these messages are important for kids (and adults) to consider.
I really only have one issue with “The Aftermyth” — Wolff is still writing the second book in this series, and I have to wait to read the next installment.

[Mark Buxton · Rating 5 out of 5]

What worked:
The book’s opening pages foretell the creative adventure awaiting the characters. Penelope and her twin brother, Paris, head to Anaximander’s to develop their powers, but they must first eat a doughnut hole before crossing the bridge that leads to the school. Penelope is attacked by snakes and faces other obstacles, but Paris doesn’t have any trouble and doesn’t understand why it takes her thirty minutes to cross the bridge. Is something happening to her, or is it her imagination? The new students must locate a coin to identify the house they will join, but Penelope’s coin is much more elusive than the others. She shakes hands with a hologram and rides a waterfall as it flows up, not down. The way her experience differsfrom anyone else’s is puzzling, but it continues throughout the plot and adds mystique to the story.
Students are told that they’re assigned to the house they need, and Penelope is placed with Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty. This creates a huge internal conflict, since she’s dead-set on joining other Athenas in their house of logic and wisdom. Imagine the embarrassment of having to tell her parents the disappointing news. Readers will follow her transformation from an intense, super-serious student into an emotional, caring person. Penelope is forced to reflect on her situation and modify her view of the school and its students. She finds herself in many confusing, strange circumstances, and Penelope and readers will wonder what’s going on and why she’s singled out. There’s clearly something special about her character, but she also has remarkable abilities that will slowly emerge.
Penelope’s roommate is an unexpected treat. Fifi is enthusiastic and impulsive, two qualities lacking in Penelope. Fifi immediately says Penelope’s name will be Ellie, and it’s easier to go along with it than to fight it. Fifi is flamboyant and has knowledge about Anaximander’s that Penelope needs. Fifi has strong emotions, and she’s quick to share them, whether they result from kindness or anger. The roommates are joined by Arjun, a boy who has good thinking skills and is often able to understand Penelope’s strange ideas. Fifi and Arjun don’t dismiss Penelope when she claims to see and hear things others cannot. The trio forms the core group of characters that will guide the plot.
What didn’t work as well:
It takes Penelope until the book’s second half to finally wonder why strange things are only happening to her. Readers will wonder about that when she first crosses the bridge, and that question keeps readers mentally engaged throughout the story. The plot is more about what’s happening than Penelope’s school experience.
The final verdict:
Unexpectedly, one major god has been forgotten, and it seems to be Penelope’s job to correct the myths being told. I highly recommend this book for mystery, magic, and Greek myth lovers.

[lula anna · Rating 2 out of 5]

a little confused, a little disappointed

Honestly, I did not know this was a middle grade book. I thought it was going to be YA like her Crave series. However, that is entirely my bad for not looking close enough! It’s all good though because I don’t mind middle grade and there are plenty of middle grade and children books that I enjoy as an adult. However, even though this was middle grade, it seemed more elementary in writing and characters, even though they’re 13+. I still started off interested with this magical school that everyone gets placed into different houses depending on the Greek mythology gods they most represent.

**Just a heads up, this book may require you to know at least the basics of Greek mythology.**

I’m trying to give this book the benefit of the doubt but I’m honestly confused by this one. I enjoyed the Crave books for the most part. I haven’t read her other works. I enjoyed the little magic, moving buildings, mythology roots, and academic setting (we don’t really get much time in classes). It’s a relatively short book coming in right at 300 pages (at the time of my ARC reading), which is appreciated especially for younger readers.

But, this book had almost 0 world building. Practically no plot. The premise was decent, but just very very repetitive and nothing really happened. The scene and time transitions were clunky. Some odd pacing- 100 pages for seemingly an hour and then the rest of the book for a year? (I think a year? I’m still confused on the overall timing). The conflict resolutions seemed too easy and brushed off, even for a middle grade book. The ending also did not make sense to me.

This book felt more like a teaser or trailer than an actual book on its own, to me. I know this is the start of a series but when I finished this book, I actually said out loud, ”That was it? THAT was the end??” I was looking for more pages after the epilogue. In my opinion, this book was written like a children’s TV show in which this entire book would be just the pilot episode. I feel like this book was just trying to start off the series, and hopefully the rest of the books will be more fleshed out with plot and character development.

At this time, I would not recommend this book. Maybe in the future if the next book comes out and I read it and enjoy it then I’ll recommend this book. Standing on its own, however, I wouldn’t recommend unless you really want a book where you can completely turn your mind off. I enjoy those books as well. I can’t speak for preteen readers so they may love this.

Thanks so much to NetGalley, Tracy Wolff, and Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing for providing this e-ARC book for my honest review. All opinions on this book are my own.



**Expected Publication Date: February 3rd, 2026**


Middle Grade so 0 🌶️

* please disregard grammatical errors due to accessible voice texting. Thanks!

[claud · Rating 3 out of 5]

thank you to Booktrovert and Simon and Schuster for the arc!! this is my first introduction to this author so i have no idea if she writes a lot about greek mythology. it was interesting to have a different take on the gods than pjo.

i really liked the world of the academy, i felt like i could picture it very distinctly and i loved the elaborateness of aphrodite hall (someone build me a gigantic candy room please). it was definitely interesting to deal with an aphrodite that seemingly isn’t concerned with romantic love. this one seems more into friendship and fun and bonding over love. maybe in future books it will change, who knows? dark academia genre meets greek mythology is something i’m really interested in hearing about more!

i’m a little confused on like what they’re supposed to go to school for? like in pjo they go to regular school and then demigod greek-mythology-based summer camp, but what does regular greek-mythology-based school mean? what skills are they developing? what are they ideally going to do when they graduate? like in pjo they have a special camp because they are demigods, but with the exception of penelope no one really has any powers yet so what makes them being at the academy special? i can’t help but compare this to pjo because they are so similar.

i need this white author to look up synonyms for the word brown skin bc i shouldn’t have to read that description multiple times for multiple different people. also she literally described another character as asian and only pointed out her black hair, not her skin tone. so i don’t know what’s up with the lack of detail for darker skinned characters. -_- like it’s 2026 can we please be more detailed and specific with Black and brown characters’ appearance if we’re going to include them? thanks.

i think if penelope’s visions and her assumed powers would have worked in the second installment rather than now. i think there should have been more world building and establishing life at anaximander’s and seeing her accept the aphrodite lifestyle.

as to the criticisms of penelope not knowing hera, i think if only 5 of the gods—hades, zeus, athena, poseidon, and aphrodite—have halls in the academy, it makes a little sense that they don’t know her. like there are so many other big gods that aren’t even mentioned and we don’t hear about them at all. hopefully in future installments we see more of the other olympians’ halls. i do think it was interesting to only pick 5 of them and not include all 12, though.

regardless of my rating, i will be tuning into the next books, i am excited to see what happens next and also optimistic that it will be much better than this one.

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars!

This book was SO FUN. Wow. I was not expecting to be hooked so quickly. Wolff did an amazing job of piquing my interest from the get go with the characters being in the car on their way to somewhere but experiencing it with the FMC, Penelope, who had no idea what was happening next. I had to force myself to put it down every single time I picked it up.

The book reminds me of Harry Potter or Magestierium series, but "make it Greek." Although, opposite of what happens with Harry Potter, Penelope finds herself placed in a house she did not want AT ALL. That raised the tension a lot and you really feel Penelope's unease and fear. The muses and labors were really entertaining and fun to read. I loved the idea. Her new friends, Arjun and Fifi were really great and I felt as though Fifi in particular were really fleshed out and stamped their place in the book, unlike side characters I've read in other books. Realizing that Penelope needed that kind of care and compassion from someone kind of broke my heart a little.

We spend pretty much the whole book in a place of distress and fun. Aphrodite's house is pure chaos and happiness. I loved watching Penelope, "Ellie", slowly come to terms with her place in Aphrodite and the fully embrace it. I was sad to see her relationship with her twin pretty much dwindle down to nothing.

That being said, the entire book is written in a way where you know that you aren't really going to get many answers because it's going to be a series. It was a bit frustrating to read through the whole book and still not really know what was going on. Why did Ellie go through the bridge sequence? Why was it so hard for her to catch her coin? Why does the school move during the daytime only with Ellie? Why are the teachers so shady about certain things? Why did Paris reject Penelope and hook up so quickly with Rhea? How did she end up in the Underworld and what's going on with Kyrian? Why does she "need" to get out of the Academy? I was hoping at least one of these answers would be given.

The summary on the last page of the book says "Penelope and her twin brother attend Anaximander's Academy where she discovers her true identity as the Myth Weaver with the ability to change stories." That was the first time we're told what Penelope could actually be; it's not talked about at all. We just see Ellie change 2 characters stories at the end. Why? How?

I am really, really eager to read the next book in the series and kind of wish I wasn't reading an advanced copy because I know I'll be waiting awhile until I can! I would 100% recommend this book. My 13 year daughter is already eager to just based off of my description of the first 3 chapters. Loved it.

Thank you NetGalley for the advanced copy!

[Squirrel · Rating 2 out of 5]

Started thinking this would be fun. But the flaws override the fun. Twins going to a school to find and participate in myth and magic; the parents don't 'believe' the daughter is seeing rainbows and flashes? They're due at 10:30, it's 10:13, and they stop for 'donuts'. So the parents are either massively dysfunctional, they can't even make an important appointment on time, or they're gaslighting their own child.

And LOOK. There is magic and non-secret information the parents didn't bother to tell the children. And they let their son eat the entire box (WHY did he save 1? Oh, PLOT CONVENIENCE.)

Just as, their whole existence supposedly springs from the Green pantheon, but the teenage children haven't heard the stories?

Well, the 'family' is cringe-inducing, insensitive to their own children and each other. (Who takes a teenage boy on a long drive with no snacks?)

Its worth remembering the author can create ANY people and ANY situations, so these characters and scenes are CHOSEN. The donut-seller seems interesting, but that's not the character offered to guide the reader.

Holding out for books that don't substitute a stack of character and relationship defects for personality, plot, and character growth.(letting your child off in a mud hole on the way to first day at a new school!? Telling them nothing, preparing them not at all....)

But this girl - not even a woman - is going to REWRITE the stories to be more feminist? Why? Where is all the 'injustice' she's experienced as a child that would have her rejecting the culture and thinking she has the wisdom to rewrite it? Which, btw, does NOT need 'rewriting'. The women in Greek mythology are PLENTY powerful. Athena, Hera, Artemis, Demeter, Persephone, Gaia, Selene... Yes, there are females who were harshly treated, others who were horrible. Just as there were males in those situations too. Maybe the author needed a deeper education in Greek mythology? Surely at least one person at the publishing house had a background in this, or access to fact-checking?

Early DNF.

Obviously FMC is experiencing something different from the others, she's the only one who doesn't know. She's special -can blow out an eternal flame- but there's been no hint of it before the story opens? And why would Greek mythology decide to center itself in ... Maine, in the U.S.?

Definitely like the snake bridge though...

NFM!

[Sails and Scales · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have mixed feelings about this book. I enjoyed reading it and thought it was all the whimsical fun adventure that I would have loved as a kid. But sitting down to evaluate it, it’s hard to find good things to say other than I thought it was fun to read. Thinking about it after has been less fun.
I enjoyed the experience of reading the book, but there were things that frustrated me. It’s hard to tell how much time is passing because apparently this happens about over a year but it feels like it’s happening over the course of a week or something like that. The ending also was hard to follow because we went from a school competition to something much bigger in a mythological aspect, but it’s really hard to tell what that means for the world or the main characters.

This book is going to feel familiar to people who know Harry Potter – exclusive magical school and the sorting ceremony being the major tells. It also is pulling into the Percy Jackson fanbase with the Greek mythology tie. At times, I felt like the writer was trying to pull those audiences and cared more about matching those vibes than making it all work in the story. There are all these elements of “Look, Hogwarts” or “Look, mythology!” but it never feels like the world is fully developed or like there’s a unique hook there. I have no idea why these kids are here or why they’re special. Are they even special, or do all kids ever go to a school for… mythological types and this just happens to be the one she ends up at? It’s confusing.

At times, I was a little confused about how old she was. She acted sometimes very young while other times a little older than what I thought she would be.

Penelope comes across as a snob sometimes because she’s so focused on getting into the “correct” area. I like this element and the opportunity for her to learn and grow, but it’s also frustrating to see her and her family’s reaction to this. Her, frankly, prejudice against other people in her group also ruins some of the friendship vibes for me. I think there’s some good sparks there, but it’s hard to fully believe in it when she’s convinced she’s better than them for most of the book.

Overall, I think this has great potential. There’s a lot of interesting characters and elements that I wish had come together better in the end, but I very much enjoyed the experience of reading the book and will pick up more books in the series to see if it can capitalize on its strengths and reduce its weaknesses.