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The Love Oracles #1
Nymph
An idyllic Greek island. Obsessed demigods. A fallen nymph. A mortal boy. Merope, a beautiful but faded star nymph, is banished to Earth for displeasing the gods. She tries to fit in, go to school and live a normal “human” life. And then she meets Lukas … but relationships between men and goddesses are forbidden. Will their love grow? Or will Merope and Lukas feel the wrath of the gods?
432 pages, Paperback
First published February 1, 2014
5 people are currently reading
345 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
February 9, 2014
Superb! I bought this as a compliment, to support the author (we worked for a time at the same publisher). I very quickly became absorbed with the story and read it in 24 hours. The writing is extremely good and I loved the way the Greek gods are weaves seamlessly into the story. am not the target audience but I absolutely loved it and I can't wait to read the second book. :-)
January 20, 2014
omg.this book is super good!!cant wait for the second book to release!
February 3, 2014
What a beautiful love story! How am I going to wait a whole year to get more of Merope and Lukas... Not to mention Heracles... He's one pretty cool demigod -as hot as Hades!. I loved how Tonya effortlessly wove Greek mythology throughout... From expressions and actions to the world of Olympus vs earth. Humour and romance in one package.
February 22, 2014
It is so incredibly rare for me to have a book that produces such feelings of revulsion, but there, this book managed it. This is the kind of book one simply must talk about, even to people who don't care. I found myself saying stupid sentences aloud, trying to work out if it was just me. I huffed, I groaned, I rolled my eyes. But I prevailed, I would not give this book the satisfaction of a did not finish!
So there's a star nymph called Merope, who feels like the odd one out because she doesn't like entertaining Gods as her sisters and her kind normally does. When a particularly obnoxious lout by the named of Orion attempts to seduce her and bound her in nymphly servitude, she gets her sisters to come up with a plan to spirit her to Earth in the care of her Uncle Prometheus (who isn't her real Uncle, and could take advantage of her favors, should she wish) once there, Merope finds humanity ugly until she spots Lukas, and the instalove ensues. Follow some high school drama, Merope being a total idiot about Earth culture, language, feelings and prettty much making it so a two year old could tell she wasn't human, and somehow we get to the end of 424 pages.
Merope is one of the worst characters I have ever had the pleasure of reading. She makes no decisions, looks utterly perfect, and was put into this book to drive me insane. Lukas is 'sensitive'. Yeah right, most 17 year old boys wouldn't dream of someone they have been lusting after and wake up thinking how beautiful they were. There would be...complications, to say the least. I flipping hate instalove. It is the absolute least favorite of all plot devices I have ever come accross. Eros shot them with his arrows, when they had spoken no more than two sentences. Please.
I should have known better. When I first looked at the cover I started staring at the woman on the front cover's legs. They just don't make sense. They're on crazy angles and her foot looks creepy. Don't judge a book by the cover, hey? But I couldn't help myself.
I'm also annoyed I spent twenty bucks on this. There are so many other ways I should have spent that cash. So in summation, I hated this book. There are currently 16 ratings for this book and mostly they praise it, but I wanted it to end on page 20. If you follow my reviews then you know how rare this is for me, I'm a crazy five star reader. I'm going to leave you with some words of wisdom from Merope herself; "Oh, I know." Merope sighed. "Love sux." Oh, it does indeed!
So there's a star nymph called Merope, who feels like the odd one out because she doesn't like entertaining Gods as her sisters and her kind normally does. When a particularly obnoxious lout by the named of Orion attempts to seduce her and bound her in nymphly servitude, she gets her sisters to come up with a plan to spirit her to Earth in the care of her Uncle Prometheus (who isn't her real Uncle, and could take advantage of her favors, should she wish) once there, Merope finds humanity ugly until she spots Lukas, and the instalove ensues. Follow some high school drama, Merope being a total idiot about Earth culture, language, feelings and prettty much making it so a two year old could tell she wasn't human, and somehow we get to the end of 424 pages.
Merope is one of the worst characters I have ever had the pleasure of reading. She makes no decisions, looks utterly perfect, and was put into this book to drive me insane. Lukas is 'sensitive'. Yeah right, most 17 year old boys wouldn't dream of someone they have been lusting after and wake up thinking how beautiful they were. There would be...complications, to say the least. I flipping hate instalove. It is the absolute least favorite of all plot devices I have ever come accross. Eros shot them with his arrows, when they had spoken no more than two sentences. Please.
I should have known better. When I first looked at the cover I started staring at the woman on the front cover's legs. They just don't make sense. They're on crazy angles and her foot looks creepy. Don't judge a book by the cover, hey? But I couldn't help myself.
I'm also annoyed I spent twenty bucks on this. There are so many other ways I should have spent that cash. So in summation, I hated this book. There are currently 16 ratings for this book and mostly they praise it, but I wanted it to end on page 20. If you follow my reviews then you know how rare this is for me, I'm a crazy five star reader. I'm going to leave you with some words of wisdom from Merope herself; "Oh, I know." Merope sighed. "Love sux." Oh, it does indeed!
July 22, 2015
3.5 Stars.
Win a copy http://www.divabooknerd.com/2014/03/a...
Nymph, book one in The Love Oracles series, is an easy mix of forbidden love, mythology and navigating a world that isn't your own. Merope is a Star Nymph who isn't the fragile and agreeable servant that her counterparts are. Rejecting the advances of Orion, a demigod who loves the thrill of the chase, she is sent to Earth... And the results are entertaining to say the least. Thank goodness for Eleni, without her guidance Merope would have been a social outcast. Her misfortunes are hilarious, I really enjoyed how author Tonya Alexandra created what seemed to be a perfect being, but thrust into a world where she's not overly popular, intelligent or excels beyond the teens she's trying to emulate. Although she's bound by the laws of her own world, being out of her element makes Merope more human that you'd expect.
The star of Nymph is Heracles, a chauvinistic, fashion conscious god who is sent by Orion to keep an eye on the sassy and unpredictable Star Nymph. But slowly by surely, he starts to warm to Merope where someone is bound to have their feelings hurt. Fans of Becca Fitzpatrick will enjoy The Love Oracles series, Nymph reminded me of the hugely popular Hush Hush but targeted at the larger audience. I really enjoyed the mythology aspects and seeing what are generally immaculate gods as nothing more than chauvinistic and controlling rulers that flaunt their double standards and see the race of Nymphs as nothing more than servants.
Nymph is perfect for the teen audience or those looking for a fun, flirty read.
Win a copy http://www.divabooknerd.com/2014/03/a...
Nymph, book one in The Love Oracles series, is an easy mix of forbidden love, mythology and navigating a world that isn't your own. Merope is a Star Nymph who isn't the fragile and agreeable servant that her counterparts are. Rejecting the advances of Orion, a demigod who loves the thrill of the chase, she is sent to Earth... And the results are entertaining to say the least. Thank goodness for Eleni, without her guidance Merope would have been a social outcast. Her misfortunes are hilarious, I really enjoyed how author Tonya Alexandra created what seemed to be a perfect being, but thrust into a world where she's not overly popular, intelligent or excels beyond the teens she's trying to emulate. Although she's bound by the laws of her own world, being out of her element makes Merope more human that you'd expect.
The star of Nymph is Heracles, a chauvinistic, fashion conscious god who is sent by Orion to keep an eye on the sassy and unpredictable Star Nymph. But slowly by surely, he starts to warm to Merope where someone is bound to have their feelings hurt. Fans of Becca Fitzpatrick will enjoy The Love Oracles series, Nymph reminded me of the hugely popular Hush Hush but targeted at the larger audience. I really enjoyed the mythology aspects and seeing what are generally immaculate gods as nothing more than chauvinistic and controlling rulers that flaunt their double standards and see the race of Nymphs as nothing more than servants.
Nymph is perfect for the teen audience or those looking for a fun, flirty read.
February 5, 2015
This review appears on Happy Indulgence. Check it out for more reviews.
Nymph offered an interesting mythological romance from the perspective of a star nymph being banished to earth by the Greek gods and falling in love with a forbidden human. I love Greek mythology and anything based on it, but unfortunately this one wasn’t for me.
The insta-love is rampant, with Merope and Lukas falling for each other as soon as they laid eyes on each other. The two constantly play a game of getting close, and pulling away, because falling in love with a human is forbidden for anyone from above. I couldn’t connect to either of the characters as well, it’s another one of those girl obsessed with a guy sort of stories. Merope is the silly kind of girl who makes it her life’s mission to get with a guy, even though as a banished nymph she has more to worry about.
Ultimately, this book wasn’t for me. I got about halfway before deciding to move on, as it felt like a story I’ve read over and over again but with different names and places. The concept of Greek gods and goddesses was really interesting, and I haven’t read anything from the perspective of a star nymph wanting to live on earth for education before. The writing sounded like it was more suited to a middle grade audience for its simplicity, but young teens who love easy reading romances would also love this.
Nymph offered an interesting mythological romance from the perspective of a star nymph being banished to earth by the Greek gods and falling in love with a forbidden human. I love Greek mythology and anything based on it, but unfortunately this one wasn’t for me.
The insta-love is rampant, with Merope and Lukas falling for each other as soon as they laid eyes on each other. The two constantly play a game of getting close, and pulling away, because falling in love with a human is forbidden for anyone from above. I couldn’t connect to either of the characters as well, it’s another one of those girl obsessed with a guy sort of stories. Merope is the silly kind of girl who makes it her life’s mission to get with a guy, even though as a banished nymph she has more to worry about.
Ultimately, this book wasn’t for me. I got about halfway before deciding to move on, as it felt like a story I’ve read over and over again but with different names and places. The concept of Greek gods and goddesses was really interesting, and I haven’t read anything from the perspective of a star nymph wanting to live on earth for education before. The writing sounded like it was more suited to a middle grade audience for its simplicity, but young teens who love easy reading romances would also love this.
February 25, 2014
I always like to read the books I give as gifts to younger family members. Partly because I love to read, but also because I want to confirm they are the type of story that will encourage a love of reading in the next generation. Finding Nymph was like stumbling upon a gem. I so love a book that is targeted at a younger audience but is written in a way that captures the imagination of anyone of any age. I loved the storyline, loved the mysticism. I bought a copy for my niece, and three days later had to go back to buy a copies for three other friends who I know would love it, and a copy for me to keep - cannot wait for book 2!
February 25, 2014
As a 'non-target-market' reader, I can say I found Nymph witty, cheeky and a lot of fun! I suspect teenage girls everywhere could relate to Merope, as she embarks on the long, perilous journey to the land of realising self-worth. The mixture of haughty, vengeful gods and obscenely complicated mortals adds serious potholes to the journey. How do you get minotaur-blood out from under your nails!? Sigh- I ask myself the same question every day. Read it!
January 14, 2014
Of course I love it - it's my first book!
I hope readers will grow to love Merope and Lukas. Heracles too is a bit of a winner in my eyes - although some people hate him! Keep reading the series, you'll develop a soft spot for him too. I look forward to hearing your thoughts. Tonya X
I hope readers will grow to love Merope and Lukas. Heracles too is a bit of a winner in my eyes - although some people hate him! Keep reading the series, you'll develop a soft spot for him too. I look forward to hearing your thoughts. Tonya X
February 26, 2014
I loved this book! In fact I loved it so much I have bought a copy to give to my niece who I know will love it too! The characters were fantastic and I couldn't stop reading. Can't wait for the next book.
March 2, 2014
A must read. It was great. I finished the book in one day and couldn't put it down. Always loved Greek mythology.
Geraldine
Geraldine
June 5, 2014
By Styx, this book is the perfect way for young people to discover Greek mythology. Alexandra skilfully brings the mythical gods and goddesses into the modern world in this exciting and engaging tale. I found myself laughing aloud and forgetting to get off the train. Definitely looking forward to Book 2.
June 4, 2014
Fantastic!!!
October 29, 2014
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www.distractingpages.weebly.com
Usually Greek mythology takes a lot to wow me. I've read everything from Josephine Angelini to the Goddess blind series. But this book had a very new and fresh take on the overused mythology angle. The ideas and main concepts easily supported the added nymph sector and easily flowed with the well though and intertwined knowledge and foreshadowing.
Before I go on, this book is in the 'Love Oracles' series, however the second book has not been given a release date yet.
I am an absolute sucker for any YA novel that has Greek mythology elements to it, and am therefore very critical as well, because I have read all ends of the spectrum; amazing and horrid.
This book really blew me away, I loved the alternate scenery and the loveable and relatable characters.
In this world, nymphs are the lovers of the Greek Gods and Demi-Gods, and that is where the story starts. Nymphs live for as long as their element does and are beautiful and smart creatures.
Merope is a star nymph and the youngest of her over 1000 siblings, when she turns down the offer to be the lover of a Demi - God, she is sent to Earth, more specifically a Greek Island, as punishment until she has made a choice with the protection of her 'uncle', another God.
Merope finds it difficult to go about an 'almost human' lifestyle of going to high school and being normal, when she is much too 'old' to be in high school. She forms a few friendships, and Lukas, someone she comes to love deeply, but can never have because of the Laws of Olympus. She tries to fight the feelings to keep him safe, but after finally giving in and truly showing him who she really is the consequences are deadly.
I really enjoyed this book because it took a very wayward approach to the classic and common Greek Mythology idea, still keeping the classic and unchangeable details such as the gods, laws and environments. I really loved the various exploration of the new ideas and 'myths' and how they ended up interlinking with my pre-acquired knowledge.
The word building of the surrounding environments was absolutely exquisite and made me want to jump right into the situation with all the characters. The description of how Merope and the other supernatural entities did certain supernatural tasks, was well describes and didn't leave an ounce of confusion.
The one thing I didn't like about this book, was the ever waiting for Merope to get over her fears and finally be with Lukas like everyone in the book and me knew they both wanted to. I almost cried when she purposely hurt him to turn him away. However, that is simply a personal pet peeve of mine, so it's not anything against the book itself.
I found myself absolutely laughing out loud, when Zeus sent another God to watch over Merope and make sure she didn't get together with Lukas. His character was so unique and funny and honestly one of the best story-lines in the entire book.
In total it was a fantastic read that I thoroughly enjoyed and will go back and re-read when the second book FINALLY comes out. Definitely recommend this book, something that makes you think, but can be easily read as a holiday read or something to read at night. Be warned though, you might never put it down :)
www.distractingpages.weebly.com
Usually Greek mythology takes a lot to wow me. I've read everything from Josephine Angelini to the Goddess blind series. But this book had a very new and fresh take on the overused mythology angle. The ideas and main concepts easily supported the added nymph sector and easily flowed with the well though and intertwined knowledge and foreshadowing.
Before I go on, this book is in the 'Love Oracles' series, however the second book has not been given a release date yet.
I am an absolute sucker for any YA novel that has Greek mythology elements to it, and am therefore very critical as well, because I have read all ends of the spectrum; amazing and horrid.
This book really blew me away, I loved the alternate scenery and the loveable and relatable characters.
In this world, nymphs are the lovers of the Greek Gods and Demi-Gods, and that is where the story starts. Nymphs live for as long as their element does and are beautiful and smart creatures.
Merope is a star nymph and the youngest of her over 1000 siblings, when she turns down the offer to be the lover of a Demi - God, she is sent to Earth, more specifically a Greek Island, as punishment until she has made a choice with the protection of her 'uncle', another God.
Merope finds it difficult to go about an 'almost human' lifestyle of going to high school and being normal, when she is much too 'old' to be in high school. She forms a few friendships, and Lukas, someone she comes to love deeply, but can never have because of the Laws of Olympus. She tries to fight the feelings to keep him safe, but after finally giving in and truly showing him who she really is the consequences are deadly.
I really enjoyed this book because it took a very wayward approach to the classic and common Greek Mythology idea, still keeping the classic and unchangeable details such as the gods, laws and environments. I really loved the various exploration of the new ideas and 'myths' and how they ended up interlinking with my pre-acquired knowledge.
The word building of the surrounding environments was absolutely exquisite and made me want to jump right into the situation with all the characters. The description of how Merope and the other supernatural entities did certain supernatural tasks, was well describes and didn't leave an ounce of confusion.
The one thing I didn't like about this book, was the ever waiting for Merope to get over her fears and finally be with Lukas like everyone in the book and me knew they both wanted to. I almost cried when she purposely hurt him to turn him away. However, that is simply a personal pet peeve of mine, so it's not anything against the book itself.
I found myself absolutely laughing out loud, when Zeus sent another God to watch over Merope and make sure she didn't get together with Lukas. His character was so unique and funny and honestly one of the best story-lines in the entire book.
In total it was a fantastic read that I thoroughly enjoyed and will go back and re-read when the second book FINALLY comes out. Definitely recommend this book, something that makes you think, but can be easily read as a holiday read or something to read at night. Be warned though, you might never put it down :)
April 20, 2015
I absolutely loved this creative master piece on greek mythology with a twisted romance!!
Merope is a faded star nymph who is banished to earth for toying around with a demi god who can't seem to leave her alone for a few mere seconds. Merope is sent down to earth with no knowledge on how humans or anything in general about how they dress, what they eat and how they act in general she must learn these things with out her sister's to guide her.
Everything seems alright on the small greek island she is living on until she lays her eyes on Lukas they both have an undeniable attraction for each other but Merope knows better then to mess around with a mortal boy except she can seem to stay away from him she enrols at the local high school to learn the way the mortals live but only finds herself being pulled closer to him at the school as he is in many of her classes.
Morope has a choice take this forbidden romance to the next level or keep Lukeas and herself safe.
But it could be to late does he already know her secret?
This book was absolutely wonderful and leaves you with a massive cliffhanger and i have no idea how much longer i can wait to for book 2 Heavenly Longing.
i recommend this book to young adults ands teens who love soon good action, romance and Greek Mythology
Good Luck on your adventure's with Merope and Lukas
Merope is a faded star nymph who is banished to earth for toying around with a demi god who can't seem to leave her alone for a few mere seconds. Merope is sent down to earth with no knowledge on how humans or anything in general about how they dress, what they eat and how they act in general she must learn these things with out her sister's to guide her.
Everything seems alright on the small greek island she is living on until she lays her eyes on Lukas they both have an undeniable attraction for each other but Merope knows better then to mess around with a mortal boy except she can seem to stay away from him she enrols at the local high school to learn the way the mortals live but only finds herself being pulled closer to him at the school as he is in many of her classes.
Morope has a choice take this forbidden romance to the next level or keep Lukeas and herself safe.
But it could be to late does he already know her secret?
This book was absolutely wonderful and leaves you with a massive cliffhanger and i have no idea how much longer i can wait to for book 2 Heavenly Longing.
i recommend this book to young adults ands teens who love soon good action, romance and Greek Mythology
Good Luck on your adventure's with Merope and Lukas
December 3, 2014
Love doesnt exist on Olympus, not like Earth. Lust is every where though. Gods and nymphs making out is completely normal, its what the nymphs exist for.
Merope is a nymph (basically a goddess of lower levels). One who is either very brave or very stupid. Turning down a demigod is a bad idea, especially when its Orion the hunter. He wants her and will do anything to have her.
Merope's family pleads to Zeus to be gentle with her punishment, sugguesting she go to Earth under the watchful eye of her Uncle. While this means leaving her sisters, it saves Merope from Orion...well partly, he is a hunter/stalker after all.
Learning to live among mortals seems to be harder than she first thought, but watching Merope learn is fun to follow. Even if Orion and Eros like to interfer, and both have different plans
Merope is a nymph (basically a goddess of lower levels). One who is either very brave or very stupid. Turning down a demigod is a bad idea, especially when its Orion the hunter. He wants her and will do anything to have her.
Merope's family pleads to Zeus to be gentle with her punishment, sugguesting she go to Earth under the watchful eye of her Uncle. While this means leaving her sisters, it saves Merope from Orion...well partly, he is a hunter/stalker after all.
Learning to live among mortals seems to be harder than she first thought, but watching Merope learn is fun to follow. Even if Orion and Eros like to interfer, and both have different plans
March 5, 2014
Although this isn't my normal genre, I'd heard fabulous things about it from friends who'd read it so thought I'd give it a go. What I loved about Nymph was it's easy-can't-put-down style, and even though it's been a while since I've been in the target audience YA demographic, I thoroughly enjoyed this book - it was a little bit of greek mythology escapism. I didn't have to work hard at it, I picked up some knowledge on greek mythology knowledge, and I was absorbed in the love story and the characters. This is a perfect read for a wet weekend which is what I inhaled it during. I recommend Nymph to anyone wanting a great yarn, a love story and some guaranteed escapism. Now I'm waiting eagerly for the next book in the trilogy!
January 26, 2015
3.5 Greek stars. I enjoyed this book because of two main entities: Hercules and the Greek mythology. Everything else was just extremely childish. For instance I hate the insta-love as we find out later why it happened it still annoys me. The whole tit for tat with Lukas and Merope was super annoying and the fights were just so stupid. The vanity and selfishness was incredible that it made it hard to relate to the characters. Hercules' humor and character was the sole reason why I didn't put this read down.
March 16, 2014
I don't read a lot of YA fiction, but this was a real page-turner and I was quickly absorbed in the story. I didn't want it to end and I can't wait to find out what happens in books 2 and 3. In the meantime, I'll be sending copies to my teenage nieces, who I know will love it!
January 15, 2015
I could not put this book down, i read it all in a day. I sat laughing out loud at many parts and had smiles at others. I can say that i was holding my breath every time they kissed. I can't wait until the next book is out in the series. You have to read this book!!!!
January 23, 2015
I enjoyed Nymph - this was the first young adult romantic fiction book I had read in a very long time
May 10, 2015
Dam GR for not having half stars
This book is a realy cute romance
I don't usually read Greek myth books but this book is good
This book is a realy cute romance
I don't usually read Greek myth books but this book is good
June 12, 2020
4.8 en realidad, pero solo porque soy muy muy MUY!! Quisquillosa para dar 5 estrellas. Después de 6 años guardado entre mis cosas, al fin pude leer este libro. La verdad me gusto mucho, me encantan las historias relacionadas con la mitología griega, y "the love oracles" Me dejó más que encantada y conas ganas de seguir leyendo este tipo de historias y obviamente seguir leyendo el segundo libro de esta saga para saber que sigue en el camino de Merope y Lukas. Amé a estos protagonistas con el alma, la relación que van construyendo , y como se va dando todo entre ellos es a mi gusto, simplemente perfecto💯✨. Además, los personajes secundarios que acompañan a los protagonistas de verdad que aportan a la historia, y simplemente los amé, incluso a Con (bueno, quizás a él no tanto, pero me cae bien de todas formas jajaja).
May 19, 2017
It's not a horrible book, but I have certainly read better. I find the topic of greek mythology interesting in the book but more than half way through I found myself bored. It revolved around a poorly developed romance, it could certainly have a better vocabulary, and the characters could have been more interesting. I feel like this book would be better suited to younger or less experienced readers.
August 31, 2016
Merope has lived for thousands of years as a star nymph in the land of gods, Olympus. But life isn’t always easy for the faded star nymph. She’s been exiled to Earth and has had to leave her sisters behind. Living like a mortal is worlds apart from her other life but Merope is starting to see that there might be benefits to a human existence. One of which is the gorgeous and kind Lukas, a farm boy with exquisite imperfections. Romantic relation between a goddess and a mortal are forbidden but the way Merope feels is like nothing she’s felt before in all her immortal existence. Is a chance at forbidden romance worth the punishment the gods met out?
I’ve read quite a few modern takes on classic myths but never before have I read one about star nymphs. I was intrigued by the idea and the romance angle drew me in. Merope is ancient in comparison to mortals but rather naive about so many things. She’s lived in the shadow of her sisters her entire life and would prefer to hide in corners than take centre stage. But she has some spark to her. Rejecting a god who has been after her for centuries and then living with the consequences of her actions. For a nymph who has only ever called Olympus home, being exiled to modern-day Greece is such a shock but Merope does try to make the most of things. She enrols in a local school to learn as much as she can about humans. She makes some friends and she even goes as far as trying to embrace technology.
And then there’s Lukas. He’s hideous perfection in Merope’s eyes. The son of a local farmer with whom Merope falls for at first sight. I’m not usually one for instalove. But their initial chemistry works for me because if I can suspend belief and believe in mythological gods on Earth wearing Nike and driving sports cars, then I can believe in love at first sight within the world this book exists in. I would have liked to see rationale behind their fierce feelings been built on throughout the book (some kind of moments where despite already being in love, have causation behind falling deeper) but they do have some tender scenes and I can barrack for them as a couple.
Along for the ride on Earth – we get to see other Greek heroes experience life the mortal way. Merope’s Uncle Pro (Prometheus) is helping her adapt in the foreign place and I liked his presence in her life. Merope’s mother is an interesting character who I do hope we get to see more of in the series but the character I wanted to read about most was Hercules. Herc isn’t anything like the hero Disney made him out to be. He’s arrogant and conceited and has a proclivity for nymphs but he’s so entertaining. Gorgeous and vain, he is everything Lukas isn’t – and he knows it. A hero in the legends of old, his presence in the mortal world shakes things up a bit. I love reading his interactions with the modern world and how Merope reacts to him. He brings the a fierceness out in her and made her a little more real to read.
Nymph, the first book in the Love Oracles series, is an entertaining read. It’s surprisingly funny in parts and the romance is sweet and pure. There’s friendship and the pressures of family all coexisting in a lovely re-imagining of ancient Greek mythology. An easy read, this book is suited for younger teens and older readers who enjoy stories about true love and soul mates.
Thanks to Walker Books Australia for the review copy.
I’ve read quite a few modern takes on classic myths but never before have I read one about star nymphs. I was intrigued by the idea and the romance angle drew me in. Merope is ancient in comparison to mortals but rather naive about so many things. She’s lived in the shadow of her sisters her entire life and would prefer to hide in corners than take centre stage. But she has some spark to her. Rejecting a god who has been after her for centuries and then living with the consequences of her actions. For a nymph who has only ever called Olympus home, being exiled to modern-day Greece is such a shock but Merope does try to make the most of things. She enrols in a local school to learn as much as she can about humans. She makes some friends and she even goes as far as trying to embrace technology.
And then there’s Lukas. He’s hideous perfection in Merope’s eyes. The son of a local farmer with whom Merope falls for at first sight. I’m not usually one for instalove. But their initial chemistry works for me because if I can suspend belief and believe in mythological gods on Earth wearing Nike and driving sports cars, then I can believe in love at first sight within the world this book exists in. I would have liked to see rationale behind their fierce feelings been built on throughout the book (some kind of moments where despite already being in love, have causation behind falling deeper) but they do have some tender scenes and I can barrack for them as a couple.
Along for the ride on Earth – we get to see other Greek heroes experience life the mortal way. Merope’s Uncle Pro (Prometheus) is helping her adapt in the foreign place and I liked his presence in her life. Merope’s mother is an interesting character who I do hope we get to see more of in the series but the character I wanted to read about most was Hercules. Herc isn’t anything like the hero Disney made him out to be. He’s arrogant and conceited and has a proclivity for nymphs but he’s so entertaining. Gorgeous and vain, he is everything Lukas isn’t – and he knows it. A hero in the legends of old, his presence in the mortal world shakes things up a bit. I love reading his interactions with the modern world and how Merope reacts to him. He brings the a fierceness out in her and made her a little more real to read.
Nymph, the first book in the Love Oracles series, is an entertaining read. It’s surprisingly funny in parts and the romance is sweet and pure. There’s friendship and the pressures of family all coexisting in a lovely re-imagining of ancient Greek mythology. An easy read, this book is suited for younger teens and older readers who enjoy stories about true love and soul mates.
Thanks to Walker Books Australia for the review copy.
May 13, 2016
Okay, so I'm a sucker for romance.
Yeah, I love all the other books like The Hunger Games, Harry Potter, The Giver, The Maze Runner, The Da Vinci Code, Divergent, City of Bones, etc. But that's mostly because I can hardly ever find a romance novel that I actually like or connect with (apart from Gone With The Wind of course. -amazing!)
I took a risk with this book, picking it off the bookshelf and wondering whether or not it was worth the read - or would it further corrupt my idea of romance or true love?
But it was the best romance book I can remember reading, with good vibes, an addictive story line, lovable characters, realistic situations (when on earth, anyway), a wholesome romance and great cliffhanger.
I often find myself in class or at home randomly yearning to have my hands on that book again. No matter how many times I read it I always want it back in my hands within the same three months. Great work Tonya, I couldn't have dreamed of writing such an awesome first novel. I'm incredibly excited for the second one!!
Yeah, I love all the other books like The Hunger Games, Harry Potter, The Giver, The Maze Runner, The Da Vinci Code, Divergent, City of Bones, etc. But that's mostly because I can hardly ever find a romance novel that I actually like or connect with (apart from Gone With The Wind of course. -amazing!)
I took a risk with this book, picking it off the bookshelf and wondering whether or not it was worth the read - or would it further corrupt my idea of romance or true love?
But it was the best romance book I can remember reading, with good vibes, an addictive story line, lovable characters, realistic situations (when on earth, anyway), a wholesome romance and great cliffhanger.
I often find myself in class or at home randomly yearning to have my hands on that book again. No matter how many times I read it I always want it back in my hands within the same three months. Great work Tonya, I couldn't have dreamed of writing such an awesome first novel. I'm incredibly excited for the second one!!
April 18, 2014
When i picked up this book I had high hopes. I kept thinking of Stardust instead it felt more like Starcrossed -.- i hated starcrossed. I didn't hate this book but it wasn't amazing.
I found Merope to be annoying and whiny. Other characters like Con and Eleni didn't get much story time though they were quite interesting.
Lucas's love for Merope and vice versa was so blah and boring! Maybe because there was no suspense to it? It was quite obvious from the very beginning that they were both hit with those love arrows and I guess that works as an explanation for why they were so obsessively into each other for no real reason and no build-up... Still, maybe it's just me- i prefer romances that grow with suspense not the love at 1st sight types.
The ending I think, redeemed the story. The 2nd book isn't on my list of *omgicantwaitineeditrightnow* books but if I see it and if I have cash I'd get it. It has potential to be a really good story. I hope it's not gonna be cheesy though =s
I found Merope to be annoying and whiny. Other characters like Con and Eleni didn't get much story time though they were quite interesting.
Lucas's love for Merope and vice versa was so blah and boring! Maybe because there was no suspense to it? It was quite obvious from the very beginning that they were both hit with those love arrows and I guess that works as an explanation for why they were so obsessively into each other for no real reason and no build-up... Still, maybe it's just me- i prefer romances that grow with suspense not the love at 1st sight types.
The ending I think, redeemed the story. The 2nd book isn't on my list of *omgicantwaitineeditrightnow* books but if I see it and if I have cash I'd get it. It has potential to be a really good story. I hope it's not gonna be cheesy though =s
August 22, 2014
This is a big fat dnf.
The prologue waa great..I felt like it did the set up for what could be a magical, sweet book. Then I read the first chapter and my expectations plummeted. I really dislike instalove. I mean on the rare iccasion (if the rest of the book is great) I can try to ignore it, but it still brings my rating down. THIS one is ridiculous! By the end of the first chapter, the FIRST CHAPTER, the main character is irresistably drawn to a boy she thinks is ugly as hell (cos she is apparently spun gold, sugar and roses). Now usually I will give a book about 3-5 chapters to try and persuade me my first impression was wrong. But I just couldn't. A few pages into the second chapter I had to put it down.
There is no way I would recommend this to anyone. Steer clear. Avoid. Do not waste your time.
The prologue waa great..I felt like it did the set up for what could be a magical, sweet book. Then I read the first chapter and my expectations plummeted. I really dislike instalove. I mean on the rare iccasion (if the rest of the book is great) I can try to ignore it, but it still brings my rating down. THIS one is ridiculous! By the end of the first chapter, the FIRST CHAPTER, the main character is irresistably drawn to a boy she thinks is ugly as hell (cos she is apparently spun gold, sugar and roses). Now usually I will give a book about 3-5 chapters to try and persuade me my first impression was wrong. But I just couldn't. A few pages into the second chapter I had to put it down.
There is no way I would recommend this to anyone. Steer clear. Avoid. Do not waste your time.
December 29, 2015
GAH. That was painful.
Insta-love: Check
Greek mythology: WHAT MYTHOLOGY?!
Heroine who's mission in life is to moon over hero: Check
Shortening of names to cringe-worthy nicknames: Check (See Heracles to 'Herc' / Prometheus to 'Pro'.) *shudders*
Cringe-worthy dialogue: Check
Mind-numbing high school drama: Check
Cardboard secondary characters: Check
This one reminds me of Hush, Hush which I loathed and DNF-ed(twice). The only reason I didn't put this down is because A) I'm stubborn B) the heroine is a nymph which is not something you see in YA mythology and I wanted to see how it was done.
Steer clear.
Insta-love: Check
Greek mythology: WHAT MYTHOLOGY?!
Heroine who's mission in life is to moon over hero: Check
Shortening of names to cringe-worthy nicknames: Check (See Heracles to 'Herc' / Prometheus to 'Pro'.) *shudders*
Cringe-worthy dialogue: Check
Mind-numbing high school drama: Check
Cardboard secondary characters: Check
This one reminds me of Hush, Hush which I loathed and DNF-ed(twice). The only reason I didn't put this down is because A) I'm stubborn B) the heroine is a nymph which is not something you see in YA mythology and I wanted to see how it was done.
Steer clear.
June 30, 2019
i absolutely adored this book, i found this book at my local Dymmocks bookstore and the cover had me hooked instantly. when i read the plot summary i became even more invested in reading this book especially since i had just gotten into greek mythology when i came across this book years ago. this was the first book i read that was a modern tale featuring the characters from the greek mythology and i absolutely loved this book, the romance, the humor, the forbidden relationships. i sincerely hope the sequels are able to be written i want more from this series. it was a beautifully well written novel.
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