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Latter-Day Olympians #1
Bad Blood
The gods play…and mortals pay.
Latter-Day Olympians, Book 1
Tori Karacis’s family line may trace back to a drunken liaison between the god Pan and one of the immortal gorgons. Or…maybe it’s just coincidence that her glance can, literally, stop men in their tracks. While her fear of heights kept her out of the family aerobatic troupe, her extreme nosiness fits right in with her uncle’s P.I. business.
Except he’s disappeared on an Odyssean journey to find himself. Muddling through on her own, she’s reduced to hunting (not stalking, because that would just be weird) brass-bra’d Hollywood agent Circe Holland to deliver a message…only to witness her murder by what looks like the Creature from the Black Lagoon.
Suddenly, all of her family’s tall tales seem believable, especially when Apollo—the Apollo, who’s now hiding out among humans as an adult film star—appears in her office, looking to hire her. She knows the canoodling with gods never works out well for humans, but she’s irresistibly drawn to him. Maybe it’s her genes. Maybe not.
Given her conflicted feelings for one hot and hardened cop, it’s a toss-up which will kill her quickest. The danger at her door…or her love life.
Contains pot-boiling passion between a heroine who may—or may not—be a descendant of Medusa, and a hot god and a hunky cop with the…equipment…to handle her, even on her worst bad-hair day. Beware of killer kisses, trickster gods and bearded grandmothers Who Know Everything.
Latter-Day Olympians, Book 1
Tori Karacis’s family line may trace back to a drunken liaison between the god Pan and one of the immortal gorgons. Or…maybe it’s just coincidence that her glance can, literally, stop men in their tracks. While her fear of heights kept her out of the family aerobatic troupe, her extreme nosiness fits right in with her uncle’s P.I. business.
Except he’s disappeared on an Odyssean journey to find himself. Muddling through on her own, she’s reduced to hunting (not stalking, because that would just be weird) brass-bra’d Hollywood agent Circe Holland to deliver a message…only to witness her murder by what looks like the Creature from the Black Lagoon.
Suddenly, all of her family’s tall tales seem believable, especially when Apollo—the Apollo, who’s now hiding out among humans as an adult film star—appears in her office, looking to hire her. She knows the canoodling with gods never works out well for humans, but she’s irresistibly drawn to him. Maybe it’s her genes. Maybe not.
Given her conflicted feelings for one hot and hardened cop, it’s a toss-up which will kill her quickest. The danger at her door…or her love life.
Contains pot-boiling passion between a heroine who may—or may not—be a descendant of Medusa, and a hot god and a hunky cop with the…equipment…to handle her, even on her worst bad-hair day. Beware of killer kisses, trickster gods and bearded grandmothers Who Know Everything.
224 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 28, 2011
12 people are currently reading
532 people want to read
About the author
Lucienne Diver
31 books522 followersLucienne Diver has written snark and suspense with her Vamped YA series featuring a teen fashionista who goes from chic to eek when she wakes up as one of the undead, her Latter-Day Olympians series featuring a heroine who can, quite literally, stop men in their tracks, and her YA suspense novels, Faultlines, The Countdown Club and Disappeared.
The Shadow Girls, her new epic fantasy, which David B. Coe/D.B. Jackson calls, “thrilling, powerful, redemptive, and exquisitely written,” is darker in tone. In a country that’s been at war for six years due to the supposed poisoning of the king of Jucar by his queen from their rival Frizenze, three women are about to rebel against their treatment and, with allies gained along the way, fight to reshape the face of power. The problem is, one of the women is quite mad, and she is in line for the crown. The trilogy continues with The Whisper Kin (2025) and The Illuminated Lands (2026).
The Shadow Girls is close to Lucienne’s heart, touching on feminist and gender issues, LGBTQIA+ themes and climatological fantasy. Both the religion and magical system are based on animism, the spirit in all things, but also the universal spirit, the All. The mageri, the great magic men who raid the anima for the power to create their battlefield constructs to crush their enemies, are killing the land, creating deprivation and disease. And…well, much, much more.
Interested in learning more? To interview Lucienne Diver, contact her at luciennediver@gmail.com.
The Shadow Girls, her new epic fantasy, which David B. Coe/D.B. Jackson calls, “thrilling, powerful, redemptive, and exquisitely written,” is darker in tone. In a country that’s been at war for six years due to the supposed poisoning of the king of Jucar by his queen from their rival Frizenze, three women are about to rebel against their treatment and, with allies gained along the way, fight to reshape the face of power. The problem is, one of the women is quite mad, and she is in line for the crown. The trilogy continues with The Whisper Kin (2025) and The Illuminated Lands (2026).
The Shadow Girls is close to Lucienne’s heart, touching on feminist and gender issues, LGBTQIA+ themes and climatological fantasy. Both the religion and magical system are based on animism, the spirit in all things, but also the universal spirit, the All. The mageri, the great magic men who raid the anima for the power to create their battlefield constructs to crush their enemies, are killing the land, creating deprivation and disease. And…well, much, much more.
Interested in learning more? To interview Lucienne Diver, contact her at luciennediver@gmail.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
February 14, 2024
Forgettable fun.
Read because Diver's story about a supernatural creature and a wolf rescue was one of the standouts of Instinct: An Animal Rescuers Anthology. This, however, is standard UF PI: requisite snark, competing love interests, police officer foil. Plays a little fast and loose with the mythic pantheon, but that's okay.
“Let’s say I’m in denial. Buy me a clue?” He raked me up and down.
“You’ve got to be kidding me. You’re practically glowing with it.”
“With what?” I asked, frustrated.
“Power.”
I snorted. “Whatever."
Ah yes, the scene when the genre norms really started to show themselves. Our main character, Tori, is a Gorgon descendent who works as a PI. After witnessing the death of Circe in an alley, our intrepid investigator's curiosity is piqued, doubly so when Apollo visits her office and asks her to take the case. While she generally does not suffer from TSTL there also isn't much detecting; really just the process of accidentally being in the way.
I missed the atmospheric setting that was in her short story, probably jettisoned for genre norms. There's lots of smart-ass dialogue instead, excused by Tori stating that's her coping strategy when overwhelmed or under stress. There's more or less two competing love interests with some bog-standard coping skills (or lack thereof).
On Stephen's scale of buy, borrow or steal (I might have made that last bit up), this is a buy cheap or borrow. I probably won't be progressing in the series unless the next is dirt cheap.
Two and a half stars, rounding up.
Read because Diver's story about a supernatural creature and a wolf rescue was one of the standouts of Instinct: An Animal Rescuers Anthology. This, however, is standard UF PI: requisite snark, competing love interests, police officer foil. Plays a little fast and loose with the mythic pantheon, but that's okay.
“Let’s say I’m in denial. Buy me a clue?” He raked me up and down.
“You’ve got to be kidding me. You’re practically glowing with it.”
“With what?” I asked, frustrated.
“Power.”
I snorted. “Whatever."
Ah yes, the scene when the genre norms really started to show themselves. Our main character, Tori, is a Gorgon descendent who works as a PI. After witnessing the death of Circe in an alley, our intrepid investigator's curiosity is piqued, doubly so when Apollo visits her office and asks her to take the case. While she generally does not suffer from TSTL there also isn't much detecting; really just the process of accidentally being in the way.
I missed the atmospheric setting that was in her short story, probably jettisoned for genre norms. There's lots of smart-ass dialogue instead, excused by Tori stating that's her coping strategy when overwhelmed or under stress. There's more or less two competing love interests with some bog-standard coping skills (or lack thereof).
On Stephen's scale of buy, borrow or steal (I might have made that last bit up), this is a buy cheap or borrow. I probably won't be progressing in the series unless the next is dirt cheap.
Two and a half stars, rounding up.
July 11, 2021
Bad Blood by Lucienne Diver
Updated 2nd read by audiobook.
The Greek Gods walk among the Hollywood rich and famous.
Toni Karacis is a PI drawn into a war between the Gods when she witnesses the murder of one of them. Suddenly all the stories she's heard from her grandmother are taking on a life of their own and those gods are interfering and threatening her own life.
Entertaining writing style with humor and rich language. Quite a list of characters from the Greek myths, many of which I didn't know. I don't think I missed anything but the humor may have been higher if my history of these gods wasn't lacking.
First in a series. I will be buying and reading the next to see what happens with this PI and her world.
Excerpt:
"I couldn't help myself. "You're just in time. Detective Armani was about to break out the rubber hoses."
Lau finally deigned to look my way, but couldn't be moved to put on an expression, let alone respond. Damn, I wanted to rattle her cage. This whole more stoic than thou thing-- and hello, I wasn't even in competition-- freaked me out. Of course, that might've been why she did it.
Armani gave me a quelling look, but I'd had years of Yiayia's evil eye to draw on. I was nigh unquellable."
Excerpt from Bad Blood by Lucienne Diver
I won this book in a contest at a readers conference.
🎧 I listened to this book for the second time for a bookclub and author chat. The audiobook was narrated by Courtney Holly who did a wonderful job with the dry wit and exasperation of Toni. The performance made the story compelling and engaging and almost as if I could turn on the TV and see one of these famous Gods as a Hollywood actor. I listened at 1.2. I could have sped it up a bit but was immersed enough that I didn’t even think about the speed until after I was done.
Updated 2nd read by audiobook.
The Greek Gods walk among the Hollywood rich and famous.
Toni Karacis is a PI drawn into a war between the Gods when she witnesses the murder of one of them. Suddenly all the stories she's heard from her grandmother are taking on a life of their own and those gods are interfering and threatening her own life.
Entertaining writing style with humor and rich language. Quite a list of characters from the Greek myths, many of which I didn't know. I don't think I missed anything but the humor may have been higher if my history of these gods wasn't lacking.
First in a series. I will be buying and reading the next to see what happens with this PI and her world.
Excerpt:
"I couldn't help myself. "You're just in time. Detective Armani was about to break out the rubber hoses."
Lau finally deigned to look my way, but couldn't be moved to put on an expression, let alone respond. Damn, I wanted to rattle her cage. This whole more stoic than thou thing-- and hello, I wasn't even in competition-- freaked me out. Of course, that might've been why she did it.
Armani gave me a quelling look, but I'd had years of Yiayia's evil eye to draw on. I was nigh unquellable."
Excerpt from Bad Blood by Lucienne Diver
I won this book in a contest at a readers conference.
🎧 I listened to this book for the second time for a bookclub and author chat. The audiobook was narrated by Courtney Holly who did a wonderful job with the dry wit and exasperation of Toni. The performance made the story compelling and engaging and almost as if I could turn on the TV and see one of these famous Gods as a Hollywood actor. I listened at 1.2. I could have sped it up a bit but was immersed enough that I didn’t even think about the speed until after I was done.
December 26, 2013
Not a bad little urban fantasy novel, really. I liked Tori and Armani was adorable and I particularly liked that Diver didn't try to drag a love triangle out of the messiness of the story. The plot was a little meandering and the world building was kind of sloppy, but neither was so badly done that I was tempted to stop reading.
There's a tendency for strong heroines in the genre to snark a lot and Tori isn't an exception. There was some real heart in her snark, though and she wasn't so tough that she couldn't be vulnerable and that endeared her to me. I also like that none of the main characters insisted on their own version of reality beyond being presented with conflicting evidence. I was particularly happy when Armani made the conscious choice to roll with things once he'd see the explanatory benefits of the theories thrust at him. That's always good in a cop who is supposedly good at his job.
I'm a bit worried where the series will go from here, though, as it seems to have pretty much blown its wad with the conclusion. This impression isn't helped by the somewhat abrupt wrap-up (did I mention that pacing was an issue?). I'm interested in the rest of the series, though, so I'll at least keep an eye out for the next...
There's a tendency for strong heroines in the genre to snark a lot and Tori isn't an exception. There was some real heart in her snark, though and she wasn't so tough that she couldn't be vulnerable and that endeared her to me. I also like that none of the main characters insisted on their own version of reality beyond being presented with conflicting evidence. I was particularly happy when Armani made the conscious choice to roll with things once he'd see the explanatory benefits of the theories thrust at him. That's always good in a cop who is supposedly good at his job.
I'm a bit worried where the series will go from here, though, as it seems to have pretty much blown its wad with the conclusion. This impression isn't helped by the somewhat abrupt wrap-up (did I mention that pacing was an issue?). I'm interested in the rest of the series, though, so I'll at least keep an eye out for the next...
August 1, 2021
Bad Blood is the first book I have read by Lucienne Diver. I liked the book overall it could sometimes be confusing trying to keep track of all the mythology characters throughtout the story and at times it could be hard to remember who was who. I loved tori character and all the back and forth banter she had throughout the book.with the other character. I can't wait to read the next one in this series.
August 6, 2016
Pantheon seems to be the new vampire this year. After Abandon, The Goddess Test, and Dark Descendant, there is Bad Blood.
The book is a reckless race to save humans from Olympus 2.0. The story is light, with plenty of fun and a mystery plot.
As an other reviewer has already said:
The book is a reckless race to save humans from Olympus 2.0. The story is light, with plenty of fun and a mystery plot.
As an other reviewer has already said:
It's fun, it's light, there's a nice mystery and some sexual tension to wrap it all up nicely.
August 1, 2021
This book had a lot going on. It contained a lot of mythology and as I was reading it I found that challenging. I did enjoy helping Tori work the two cases she had. OK, it was more like trying to figure it out before she did. It was a different twist to discover the gods are hanging out in Hollywood with jobs just like you and me. The chemistry between Armani and Tori was refreshing. Tori getting her powers awakened and the rate in which they developed made me wonder about what is truly in her bloodline. I am left with questions that I hope will be addressed in the next book.
August 1, 2021
This is a fun and quick read. The Greek gods walk among us and like to hang out in Hollywood. Who knew? I’m a big fan of Tori and I’m looking forward to book two!
May 10, 2015
We are defined by the company we keep.
This being particularly true for book characters. And when the secondary characters, the love interests, etc., are bland, not even a crisp, funny voice nor a snarky, clever antagonist can save a novel.
I wanted to like this. The first few pages are full of sparkle, lit up by Tori's, the protagonist's, sharp, observational humor. Consequently, my inability to connect with the story, to dig in and read for more than a few pages, was baffling.
My conclusion? Tori Karacis, former circus performer-turned PI, is a likable protagonist, especially for urban fantasy. She's estranged from her family, but without the angst or bitterness that typifies UF heroines. Her characterization lacks consistency because it's never clear (to me, anyway) whether or not, at the beginning of the story, she believes in Greek gods and other magical beasties in the pantheon. Consequently, there wasn't much curve in her character arc. Nevertheless, Tori is one of the better UF protagonists.
Urban fantasy, especially when structured like Bad Blood, is basically mystery dressed up with magic. And the strength of a good mystery novel is the setting and secondary characters. This is where Bad Blood fails. There's a flatness to everyone else in the story. No one has distinguishing characteristics, beyond the stereotypical, that is. For instance, Tori's assistant, Jesus, is the bitchy, style-conscious, gay guy. Her best friend is the bubbly, extroverted, blond, actress type (because this is Los Angeles). All the cops are grumpy, law-bots. Even gods lack color. Hermes the trickster, is tricksy in name only (disappointing, because I love me some sly characters).
The worst offenders are the two points in the love triangle--Apollo (yes, that Apollo), and Armani (yes, that's his name), the cop. The descriptions of the two are as follows: Apollo is gorgeous (well, duh) and currently moonlighting as an actor. His god power is the ability to turn any woman (willing or otherwise) into a puddle of estrogen. And he's...blond. (<=Where "blond" is spoken in Wicked's Elphaba's voice.)
Armani is a hard-nose detective type. I think he's a brunette; tall, dark and handsome, blah-blah-blah. He spends a lot of time scowling at Tori, which is supposed to be sexy, but mostly it's just stoopid. Did I mention he's tall, dark and handsome?
Right. It's like that. Not much more than the barest of character sketches. As usual, neither man is burdened with actual wit, intelligence or charm. Just big and musclebound. Sigh. Gone are the days when a generic description of male hotness would get me correspondingly hot. Now, it's show me the hot; don't tell.
And Apollo, with his sexy-mojo, borders on rapey. I know it's not meant that way, but Tori doesn't seem all that interested in him, but because of his god magnetism, she finds herself wanting to make like carpet and shag him in every room. Look at it this way. What if, instead of being tall, blond and god-gorgeous, Apollo was four feet tall, warty, toadlike, and with a sagging beer belly. Would his ability to compel Tori into the nekkid mambo be acceptable then? No. So...creepy.
The issues with the novel are probably more glaring because it has so much potential. Maybe if the story's voice was as toneless as the characterization, my apathy toward Armani and Apollo wouldn't have mattered as much. I would certainly have DNFed this straight away.
Despite the high stakes conclusion--a battle to keep Los Angeles from sliding off into the sea--Bad Blood was too easy to put down. (Read at least three other books while attempting this one.) Only finished because I was compelled by the power of "I paid money for this."
This being particularly true for book characters. And when the secondary characters, the love interests, etc., are bland, not even a crisp, funny voice nor a snarky, clever antagonist can save a novel.
I wanted to like this. The first few pages are full of sparkle, lit up by Tori's, the protagonist's, sharp, observational humor. Consequently, my inability to connect with the story, to dig in and read for more than a few pages, was baffling.
My conclusion? Tori Karacis, former circus performer-turned PI, is a likable protagonist, especially for urban fantasy. She's estranged from her family, but without the angst or bitterness that typifies UF heroines. Her characterization lacks consistency because it's never clear (to me, anyway) whether or not, at the beginning of the story, she believes in Greek gods and other magical beasties in the pantheon. Consequently, there wasn't much curve in her character arc. Nevertheless, Tori is one of the better UF protagonists.
Urban fantasy, especially when structured like Bad Blood, is basically mystery dressed up with magic. And the strength of a good mystery novel is the setting and secondary characters. This is where Bad Blood fails. There's a flatness to everyone else in the story. No one has distinguishing characteristics, beyond the stereotypical, that is. For instance, Tori's assistant, Jesus, is the bitchy, style-conscious, gay guy. Her best friend is the bubbly, extroverted, blond, actress type (because this is Los Angeles). All the cops are grumpy, law-bots. Even gods lack color. Hermes the trickster, is tricksy in name only (disappointing, because I love me some sly characters).
The worst offenders are the two points in the love triangle--Apollo (yes, that Apollo), and Armani (yes, that's his name), the cop. The descriptions of the two are as follows: Apollo is gorgeous (well, duh) and currently moonlighting as an actor. His god power is the ability to turn any woman (willing or otherwise) into a puddle of estrogen. And he's...blond. (<=Where "blond" is spoken in Wicked's Elphaba's voice.)
Armani is a hard-nose detective type. I think he's a brunette; tall, dark and handsome, blah-blah-blah. He spends a lot of time scowling at Tori, which is supposed to be sexy, but mostly it's just stoopid. Did I mention he's tall, dark and handsome?
Right. It's like that. Not much more than the barest of character sketches. As usual, neither man is burdened with actual wit, intelligence or charm. Just big and musclebound. Sigh. Gone are the days when a generic description of male hotness would get me correspondingly hot. Now, it's show me the hot; don't tell.
And Apollo, with his sexy-mojo, borders on rapey. I know it's not meant that way, but Tori doesn't seem all that interested in him, but because of his god magnetism, she finds herself wanting to make like carpet and shag him in every room. Look at it this way. What if, instead of being tall, blond and god-gorgeous, Apollo was four feet tall, warty, toadlike, and with a sagging beer belly. Would his ability to compel Tori into the nekkid mambo be acceptable then? No. So...creepy.
The issues with the novel are probably more glaring because it has so much potential. Maybe if the story's voice was as toneless as the characterization, my apathy toward Armani and Apollo wouldn't have mattered as much. I would certainly have DNFed this straight away.
Despite the high stakes conclusion--a battle to keep Los Angeles from sliding off into the sea--Bad Blood was too easy to put down. (Read at least three other books while attempting this one.) Only finished because I was compelled by the power of "I paid money for this."
November 9, 2013
Bad Blood is the first book of Lucienne Diver's Latter-Day Olympians, and I will definitely be reading the rest of the series! If you enjoy modern spinnings on old myths, whodunit PI mysteries, and steamy manwiches with a side of supernatural, this is the book for you!
Tori Karacis is such a fun leading lady, with her circus background (which I can't wait to read more about) and her mysterious ability to freeze bad guys in their tracks (literally, thanks to gorgon blood). When Tori is hired to deliver an envelope to a ruthless Hollywood agent (who may or may not be a deity with a shady track record), she ends up witnessing a brutal murder, except the killer isn't quite human. He's more like Swamp Thing. Instead of detailing this to the police, including the studly detective Nick Armani, Tori keeps it to herself. That is, until Apollo (yup, that Apollo) comes knocking on her door, requesting her help solving the murder... and wooing her with his lover-boy god mojo. Much mayhem and many close encounters follow, spiraling delightfully into a surprise plot that you'll never see coming. Gods beware, Karacis Investigations is on to you.
Tori Karacis is such a fun leading lady, with her circus background (which I can't wait to read more about) and her mysterious ability to freeze bad guys in their tracks (literally, thanks to gorgon blood). When Tori is hired to deliver an envelope to a ruthless Hollywood agent (who may or may not be a deity with a shady track record), she ends up witnessing a brutal murder, except the killer isn't quite human. He's more like Swamp Thing. Instead of detailing this to the police, including the studly detective Nick Armani, Tori keeps it to herself. That is, until Apollo (yup, that Apollo) comes knocking on her door, requesting her help solving the murder... and wooing her with his lover-boy god mojo. Much mayhem and many close encounters follow, spiraling delightfully into a surprise plot that you'll never see coming. Gods beware, Karacis Investigations is on to you.
August 1, 2021
I've already read and loved the prequel to the series so I was happy to start this book. It's been a lot of fun. I really love PI stories, and the mystery is so clever. It brings in mythology in a modern day twist, which I appreciate because I have a hard time keeping all the gods and goddesses straight most of the time. Its set amid a Hollywood backdrop for an added layer of make-believe, and there is at least 1 serious love interest with another in the wings if Tori ever decides to give in to the magical woo-woo gods leak like air. I love the showdown at the end. I had no clue who the killer it, not even a hint. I love when that happens. So many small details that made a huge impact. I'm looking forward to more in the series.
January 10, 2014
This is a fast-paced urban fantasy in which Tori, a snarky private detective from a circus family, is drawn into the machinations of semi-washed-up Greek deities in modern LA. She finds out a cabal of gods is plotting to get their mojo back at the expense of humanity. While struggling to decipher their plan and defeat it, she must choose between an attractive policeman and a divine movie star, and deal with her own Gorgon heritage. Tori's first-person narrative voice adds a lot of fun to the novel; the author slings slang like a short order cook, slapping down urban phrases with a sizzle.
February 25, 2015
I'm so excited that Lucienne Diver will be one of our featured authors at this year's Lake County Library BookFest! Bad Blood was great fun with a super-sassy P.I. heroine, a la Charley Davidson. But instead of Charley's ghosts and demons, Diver's Tori Karacis is "facing off" against the Greek gods of old! Surly gods, creatures from the sea, two potential beaus, and a prehistoric sloth are just a few of the problems Tori has to deal with, not to mention the supposedly hum-drum case of a woman's missing dog.
I can't wait to see what happens to Tori next! Recommended.
I can't wait to see what happens to Tori next! Recommended.
June 15, 2012
It's true when they say protagonist Tori Karacis is a little more than your average private eye. I really enjoyed her witty personality and the whole detective angle.
Bad Blood is an awesome mix of conflict, intrigue, and romance. Loved the mystery and the Olympian twist! Lots of suspense and likeable characters…what more could you ask for?
It really doesn't surprise me. Author Lucienne Diver always tells a great story. Urban fantasy fans will devour it up in no time.
Bad Blood is an awesome mix of conflict, intrigue, and romance. Loved the mystery and the Olympian twist! Lots of suspense and likeable characters…what more could you ask for?
It really doesn't surprise me. Author Lucienne Diver always tells a great story. Urban fantasy fans will devour it up in no time.
July 31, 2021
I enjoyed the overall story. There was a lot going on and while I mostly rolled with it and figured it out, it was a bit overwhelming at times. I enjoyed the main character Tori in all her snarky and witty glory. I cannot wait to see where this story takes her as the series progresses.
There is a lot of mythology and I think a general understanding of the different Gods makes this story flow better.
There is a lot of mythology and I think a general understanding of the different Gods makes this story flow better.
February 26, 2013
Filled with Lucienne Diver's trade mark humour, Tori is a likeable heroine who is easy to relate to despite her unusual family and powers. I loved her interactions with Nick and thought the push-pull with Apollo hit exactly the right note - you would be irresistably drawn to him and it would be a bad idea to act on it.
April 28, 2016
Super cute story. I really liked the way mythology was woven into the real world. What would happen if these gods and goddess were no longer worshipped like they believed they should be? How would they pass the time in the mortal realm? Add in a ton of my brand of humor and you get this well written book.
I'm very curious as to what is going to happen next to out heroes.
I'm very curious as to what is going to happen next to out heroes.
July 17, 2022
This is good story with a great main character. Tori has a interesting backstory and a very snarky personality. I really enjoyed her interactions with both main male characters - Armani and Apollo. If you have not read this book or series, start with the prequel, Trickster Blood. It is a fun, quick read and is a nice setup for this book. I look forward to reading more of Tori's adventures.
July 31, 2021
Bad Blood had a lot of interesting twists and I liked the take of mythology characters set it modern times. Tori was witty and snarky and I loved being in her head. There is a lot of mythology fit into this book, which could get confusing at times, but the plot of the story never loses focus and keeps pushing you forward. I listened to the audio book and it was great!
July 27, 2021
There is a lot going on in this book almost from page 1. I had a hard time keeping up with all the Olympian gods and all their quirks. I did like Tori and her relationship with cop Armani. This is not a romance and it's has a very definite cliffhanger. I can see the appeal for my reader friends but this really isn't by typical read.
August 7, 2021
Definitely a good read!
I was easily sucked into this world! Definitely had enough twist to keep me guessing! Then there is the hook! I definitely want to know more and see where this story goes!! Loved Tori and can’t wait to see what she gets herself into now!
I was easily sucked into this world! Definitely had enough twist to keep me guessing! Then there is the hook! I definitely want to know more and see where this story goes!! Loved Tori and can’t wait to see what she gets herself into now!
December 31, 2024
I liked this book, based on all the Greek mythology references. I thought how it was woven into modern day was interesting, and the romance between characters was well written. The story was interesting, but I think I didn’t enjoy it as much because I listened to it on audible and I didn’t like the narrator, so I didn’t enjoy it as much as I could have.
June 30, 2025
"Bad Blood" book one in the "Latter-Day Olympians" series by Lucienne Diver was amazing. I am curious about what is going to happen in book two because there is definitely more going to happen in this wonderful world that Lucienne is creating. Tori is such a great character and has to uncover some answers about herself. The ending left me wanting to jump right into the next book in this series.
March 30, 2018
3.5 stars
November 29, 2025
Urban Fantasy
Latter-Day Olympians Book #1
Greek Mythology
This was a fun book.
Cute story with a very likeable heroine
Latter-Day Olympians Book #1
Greek Mythology
This was a fun book.
Cute story with a very likeable heroine
November 16, 2022
What could possibly go wrong with Gods inhabiting earth? Tori is a private investigator in her Uncle’s PI business but her uncle has skipped town for a break. Tori originally worked with her family - The Karacrobats – but all agreed it was not where her talents lay. While trying to get some paperwork to Circe, Tori witnesses her death. She is hired to investigate the death by Apollo – who she originally thinks is just a star. Slowly all the pieces of things her family have been telling her start to fall into place and she starts to understand that the Gods are real. She works with Tony Armani (no relation) and his partner to solve the case. I love at the start of each chapter there is a very funny quote. Tori’s sense of humor is great and I look forward to the next book!
February 25, 2014
Lucienne Diver's Bad Blood is the first book in her Latter-Day Olympians series and it was quite the read! Tori is definitely one wild character, she's tough, feisty and has a good dose of sarcasm to boot. Very relateable!
Tori is a PI and was hired to find an agent named Circe and deliver a letter to her from a client. Only when Tori finally gets close to delivering, Circe is murdered by a fishman. Although I do like the terms something that "looks like the Creature from the Black Lagoon" because it's a favorite movie of mine! This has everything going for it! A modern day series with twists of the Greek gods thrown in and of course the movie reference!
To add to her PI talents, Tori is also part gorgon. Her state can freeze people for a short time. Which has helped her get out of a few jams when necessary. Now Apollo, a highly famous actor has come to her asking her to solve the murder of Circe and find out exactly who killed her. There were a few other cases that one tied into this case as well, that Tori had to deal with on top of everything.
The gods have sort of been doing the whole hiding among us thing for awhile, as we soon learn Apollo is also THE Apollo. I think I kind of suffered from first book syndrome here, in that there was a lot of information to take in and process and while we got it in droves, it was still hard for me at times to process everything and apply it to the current situations. But then I kept remembering the short story I read and how much I loved that, so I figured this is a case of first book syndrome. I am still planning on reading the rest of this series because it has a LOT of potential.
There's also a bit of romance going on too. Two possible men vying for Tori. But it's done in a way where it doesn't feel like the ever dreaded love triangle. I even love that Tori makes a comment on that towards the end. Apollo of course is one of them. A swoon-worthy god who wants her, but Tori feels like that's not the best option since his previous lady loves have had bad ends--being slightly insane (ie: Cassandra from Troy where she's psychic and no one believes her) and then there was Daphne who now has to be a tree forever so she could escape Apollo's affections.
Then we have detective Nick Armani. For the longest time he's sort of been the arrogant type. For when Tori is working her cases, she sometimes get mixed up with police going-ons and that leads her to being interrogated by Nick. The two definitely have a connection of sorts going on. They banter back and forth and then it suddenly turns towards flirting and reciprocating! Definitely liking Nick in this situation!
I guess the only issue I had--while trying to read in a slightly noisy environment--was trying to follow along. The writing style is very different to what I read as a short story, but I am figuring that that's because this was the first book. So it has that sort of awkwardness to it. Because the more you write, the better it gets. So I went from the latest and greatest to the beginning, when everything is still new. I stumbled a bit when suddenly I noticed Tori working on another case and was wondering when that popped up, but I might have missed the cues while the noise level was at its peak. But I'm not giving up on this series, no chance!
The ending was pretty awesome! Who doesn't love a battle? Things are getting pretty intense for Tori and even though the book is over, it's of course, only the beginning of her troubles! Can't wait to see what other adventures Tori has in this series.
Overall Rating 4/5 stars
Tori is a PI and was hired to find an agent named Circe and deliver a letter to her from a client. Only when Tori finally gets close to delivering, Circe is murdered by a fishman. Although I do like the terms something that "looks like the Creature from the Black Lagoon" because it's a favorite movie of mine! This has everything going for it! A modern day series with twists of the Greek gods thrown in and of course the movie reference!
To add to her PI talents, Tori is also part gorgon. Her state can freeze people for a short time. Which has helped her get out of a few jams when necessary. Now Apollo, a highly famous actor has come to her asking her to solve the murder of Circe and find out exactly who killed her. There were a few other cases that one tied into this case as well, that Tori had to deal with on top of everything.
The gods have sort of been doing the whole hiding among us thing for awhile, as we soon learn Apollo is also THE Apollo. I think I kind of suffered from first book syndrome here, in that there was a lot of information to take in and process and while we got it in droves, it was still hard for me at times to process everything and apply it to the current situations. But then I kept remembering the short story I read and how much I loved that, so I figured this is a case of first book syndrome. I am still planning on reading the rest of this series because it has a LOT of potential.
There's also a bit of romance going on too. Two possible men vying for Tori. But it's done in a way where it doesn't feel like the ever dreaded love triangle. I even love that Tori makes a comment on that towards the end. Apollo of course is one of them. A swoon-worthy god who wants her, but Tori feels like that's not the best option since his previous lady loves have had bad ends--being slightly insane (ie: Cassandra from Troy where she's psychic and no one believes her) and then there was Daphne who now has to be a tree forever so she could escape Apollo's affections.
Then we have detective Nick Armani. For the longest time he's sort of been the arrogant type. For when Tori is working her cases, she sometimes get mixed up with police going-ons and that leads her to being interrogated by Nick. The two definitely have a connection of sorts going on. They banter back and forth and then it suddenly turns towards flirting and reciprocating! Definitely liking Nick in this situation!
I guess the only issue I had--while trying to read in a slightly noisy environment--was trying to follow along. The writing style is very different to what I read as a short story, but I am figuring that that's because this was the first book. So it has that sort of awkwardness to it. Because the more you write, the better it gets. So I went from the latest and greatest to the beginning, when everything is still new. I stumbled a bit when suddenly I noticed Tori working on another case and was wondering when that popped up, but I might have missed the cues while the noise level was at its peak. But I'm not giving up on this series, no chance!
The ending was pretty awesome! Who doesn't love a battle? Things are getting pretty intense for Tori and even though the book is over, it's of course, only the beginning of her troubles! Can't wait to see what other adventures Tori has in this series.
Overall Rating 4/5 stars
November 9, 2011
This was one of those books that I just couldn't put down. It's not every day that you find a heroine who is a Gorgon descended from Medusa who has Apollo chasing after her as well as one very cute Detective Nick Armani. This was just an entertaining read, and one of the rare books where I liked the heroine, villain, and the love interests. It's one of my favorite novellas of the year.
Tori is one of the most likable heroines I've come across in a long time. She's taken over her uncle's P.I. visit while he's off doing who knows what. Her family is full of myths of who they are descended from, but Tori doesn't believe that her family could be descended from Medusa. Tori is working on one of her first cases and it seems simple enough-deliver a letter to a hollywood agent. There's just a few problems-she's impossible to get alone and when Tori finally finds a way to deliver the letter Circe turns up dead. Tori sees the murder happen and is shocked by the person murdering her...he's not quite human. This forces Tori to think maybe the tales her Grandma has told her about paranormal creatures and Gods masquerading as humans aren't so far fetched after all.
What I enjoyed about this novella was the fresh take on mythology and the humor that went along with it. I can't remember the last time I laughed out loud while reading a book. I loved how while Tori was attracted to Apollo she didn't fall for him-and I loved seeing how aggravated it made him. Detective Nick Armani was so much fun because he just couldn't wrap his head around what was happening in the beginning and I loved how he was always there for her. Honestly, I couldn't decide who I wanted Tori to be with more. The ending was great...there was so much action and just enough of a mystery to make me want the next book in this series immediately. I bought this book on a whim and am so glad that I did! This is just one great read.
July 5, 2011
Awesome start to a new series. The heroine is witty and likeable. She is easy to relate to because she's not an uber-assasin secret ninja with a block on her shoulder a mile wide-not that I don't occassionally like those things I am a UF reader after all but sometimes it's nice to have a change of pace.
Tori Karacis is a circus drop-out. We don't get a whole lot of info on why exactly, I have a feeling this will be covered in another book, but we know that the circus is the family business and something happened that drove her out. So she goes to work for the other black sheep of the family, her uncle, working at his PI business in Hollywood. Now she had been listening to her grandmother, who just happens to be the bearded lady for the circus, tell what she believed were myths about the Gods walking among us and the Karacis family being descendents to one of the Gorgons. Imagine her disbelief when she sees Circe herself murdered by a fishman after she herself was able to freeeze someone by her stare alone.
Things only get stranger and the plot more twisted as you read on. It was an absorbing read with it's fair share of intrigue. I do wish some of the secondary characters were fleshed out a bit more, like her BF and some of the backstory explained a little better but perhaps she is saving that for the follow up novel. It has a great love triangle-yes I'm a sucker for a good love triangle so sue me, it's popular for a reason damn it. And tons of great dialogue and snark. I highly recommend this novel. As per the author the follow up will be out sometime next year titled Crazy in the Blood.
Tori Karacis is a circus drop-out. We don't get a whole lot of info on why exactly, I have a feeling this will be covered in another book, but we know that the circus is the family business and something happened that drove her out. So she goes to work for the other black sheep of the family, her uncle, working at his PI business in Hollywood. Now she had been listening to her grandmother, who just happens to be the bearded lady for the circus, tell what she believed were myths about the Gods walking among us and the Karacis family being descendents to one of the Gorgons. Imagine her disbelief when she sees Circe herself murdered by a fishman after she herself was able to freeeze someone by her stare alone.
Things only get stranger and the plot more twisted as you read on. It was an absorbing read with it's fair share of intrigue. I do wish some of the secondary characters were fleshed out a bit more, like her BF and some of the backstory explained a little better but perhaps she is saving that for the follow up novel. It has a great love triangle-yes I'm a sucker for a good love triangle so sue me, it's popular for a reason damn it. And tons of great dialogue and snark. I highly recommend this novel. As per the author the follow up will be out sometime next year titled Crazy in the Blood.
July 9, 2011
Bad Blood is the first book I've read from Lucienne Diver, and the first in the series it appears. I'm excited that I got in at the beginning, although this means a really long wait for another one. I found it a fun romp through a world peopled by fallen Greek gods and goddesses, including the scrumptious Apollo. I sure hope he shows up again! The main protagonist, Tori, has a background that is truly unique. She appears to have inherited her Uncle's private investigation office, although how is never really explained. As a member of a family of circus freaks, she's been cast out by all but one aunt. I found myself wishing I knew more about how she could possibly become an outcast among outcasts, and also where on earth (or otherwise) her mysterious Uncle went. All of that is just backstory though, to the real mystery she's been asked, by Apollo, to investigate, which is the death of Circe. All in all, this was a satisfying mystery with the added twist of powerful gods in the midst of humans. And the human has some power of her own. Loved it! If you like urban fantasy then give this a try. It's fun, it's light, there's a nice mystery and some sexual tension to wrap it all up nicely. Good fun reading!
September 25, 2016
This was a great, easy read and I can’t wait to crack the spine of Crazy in the Blood. Diver takes the Greek myths and twists them to fit the life of a modern-day woman. Although Riordan has done this beautifully in his writing, Diver’s adaptation was much more subtle. I also loved how, where Riordan’s heroes are the descendants of Gods, Tori, Diver’s heroine, is the descendant of a Gorgon.
The combination of a steamy love triangle and a fast-paced mystery drew me in from the first page. The battle between what is good and bad extended not only from the murder and consequent occurrences within the story, but also in Tori’s battle to choose a partner. On one hand, there is the button-down, safe cop who makes her feel safe, on the other – a God. Undeniable attraction is one thing, undeniable attraction that has the potential to lead to a very uncomfortable end if the myths are anything to go by.
I loved Diver’s ability to take modern day issues and give them a mythically Greek spin. This is a fantastic start to a new series, and I can’t wait until I have the chance to read the next story in this saga.
The combination of a steamy love triangle and a fast-paced mystery drew me in from the first page. The battle between what is good and bad extended not only from the murder and consequent occurrences within the story, but also in Tori’s battle to choose a partner. On one hand, there is the button-down, safe cop who makes her feel safe, on the other – a God. Undeniable attraction is one thing, undeniable attraction that has the potential to lead to a very uncomfortable end if the myths are anything to go by.
I loved Diver’s ability to take modern day issues and give them a mythically Greek spin. This is a fantastic start to a new series, and I can’t wait until I have the chance to read the next story in this saga.
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