Rise of the Champion

by Molly Frances

Grief has taken ahold of Zoe’s already strained heart, crushing it until all that is left is dust. In its wake, in that cavernous hole in her chest, something else is growing. Claws and teeth, starved and viscous, the beast that resides within Zoe’s bloodstream feasts on her wrath.

And she has an abundance of it.



As she drags herself from the ashes of who she used to be, Zoe has a new challenge to face. When two of her friends suddenly fall ill due to experiments during the trials, no mortal doctor can heal them. She has only one choice — work with Alec.

Working with Alec means two diving deeper into the world of the returned gods — meeting new allies and new enemies — and confronting the fact that, day-by-day, she’s starting to care for him.



Navigating the increasing threat of Zeus, Zoe is left with one haunting

What version of her will rise?

503 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 5, 2026

Reviews

[Brin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a little slower than the first book, but that allows for more time spent with the characters and more exploration of a world where the gods have returned.

the story doesnt shy away from the way trauma affects people, and I love the tension it creates in relationships when characters react differently than expected. theres an underlying sense of dread that follows the story as it unfolds, leaving you wondering almost afraid to keep reading.

zoe's character growth is fascinating to read and im really excited to see where it goes in the next book, especially given the new information thats revealed.

the plot builds slowly, but once it picks up it does not stop and you cant put this book down until the last word

[Cootsiepooreads · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story picks up shortly after the ending of book 1 and hits the ground running. The quick paced plot focuses on more of the minor Greek gods, which was refreshing but also sometimes tested my knowledge and took me out of the story.

Zoe has one goal in this book: save her friends. She reluctantly works with Alec, who continues to be an *sshole. It took me a long time to warm up to him in book 1 and I'm still not entirely convinced that I like him. I do, however, adore Tyler. He's the supportive, sarcastic best friend the story needed to break the tension and provide that comedic relief.

I'm heartbroken after that ending and will most definitely be reading the rest of the books when they’re released.

[Lisa Freeston · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yet again the author, has you on the edge of your seat, whether it’s heart stopping action or crying into your pages, or both!! Loved this book, the pages didn’t stop turning!!

Thank you for creating such an amazing series and can’t wait for the next book !!!!