Secrets of Artemis

Mythic Maidens #1

by C.K. Brooke

Not even the god of gods could command my heart not to love…

In Ancient Greece, the goddess Artemis was venerated as a maiden huntress, swift with her bow and arrows, and eternally chaste. But could there be more to her story? Perhaps Lady Artemis had envisioned quite a different destiny than the one her father, Zeus, had chosen for her. What if she hadn’t merely pined after the giant huntsman, Orion, but had secretly partaken of a forbidden romance with him?

From prolific fantasy writer C.K. Brooke comes an original divine novel, in which Artemis’s classic myths are retold as never before, in her own voice, as the young goddess sets the record straight and reveals the true account of her immortal life – and love.

Genres: Fantasy, Young Adult, Mythology, Ebooks

208 pages, Hardcover

Published May 1, 2024

About the author

C.K. Brooke is a multi-award-winning author of young adult fantasy and historical romance novels and novellas. She has worked as a bookseller, book blogger, publishing assistant, and copy editor on her quest to authorhood. Her works have been published by 48fourteen, Limitless, and Readict, as well as self-published, garnering accolades from the 2020 Best Indie Book Award in Young Adult Fiction to the Indie B.R.A.G. Medallion Award.

She’s been a guest speaker and panelist for the Romance Writers of America, Rust City Book Con, and Barnes & Noble Teen Book Fest, and is an active volunteer and member of the Greater Detroit Romance Writers. She lives with her family in Rochester Hills, Michigan, where she owns and operates her imprint, Called by the Heart Publications.

Reviews

[Holly Hearts Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Much that is believed about me is only partially true, or twisted in some way"

I have always enjoyed reading Greek mythology and reading about the Gods and Goddesses who inhabit those myths and this is a story about Artemis, Goddess of the hunt. The story of Artemis is familiar to most readers who have sampled the Greek myths. She is usually portrayed as the goddess who is chastised. Unable to be joined with a man, to be pure for all ages. But this story has a different direction for us to explore. ;)

The story is written all the way from when she was born with her twin brother Apollo and we begin to learn how she acquires her power, her independence but what makes this book different than just a regular mythology book is that it's told through Artemis's voice herself and I love that!

I think this is a really well crafted tale for the book-ish reader who likes Greek mythology and it's tales. A fun and charming story with a very strong female protagonist that you instantly fall inlove with. The writing is absolutely beautiful and you cannot put it down. C.K. Brooke is definitely a top author of mine that I think deserves way more credit.

[Jade Diamond · Rating 1 out of 5]

This story is told entirely from Artemis’s point of view. A retelling of sorts of her entire life. The author took apart the myth and reassembled it as her own. A new take on the life of Artemis and different tales of the Greek Gods. I absolutely love the Greek Gods and love reading about them. I love the stories of the twelve Olympians. This is a look into the Goddess of the Hunt told in first-person perspective.

Artemis is a well known Greek Goddess and seeing her story told in the first person in a different perspective to that in the history books was refreshing. I love Greek Mythology but this book was really not for me, It was slow paced, I found myself becoming bored of it and even skimming parts of it. The general plot of the book is interesting. Artemis’ character read as if she were human and relatable to the reader. The relationship between Artemis and Orion was interesting to read about. Overall, this could have been an enjoyable book that provided a new perspective on the story of Artemis but I just couldn’t get into, it fell flat for me, it didn’t hold my attention at all. I do still appreciate the effort and what the author was going for, it just really wasn’t for me.

[Julie (Bookshelf Adventures) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Nice quick read

This was a lovely little novel of Artemis and the beginning of her story as a goddess. I really enjoyed the various aspects of Greek mythology that was included, while still allowing for a good narrative. I’d be very interested in reading other books in this series.

[Betwixt the Pages · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not even the god of gods could command my heart not to love…

In Ancient Greece, the goddess Artemis was venerated as a maiden huntress, swift with her bow and arrows, and eternally chaste. But could there be more to her story? Perhaps Lady Artemis had envisioned quite a different destiny than the one her father, Zeus, had chosen for her. What if she hadn’t merely pined after the giant huntsman, Orion, but had secretly partaken of a forbidden romance with him?

From prolific fantasy writer C.K. Brooke comes an original divine novel, in which Artemis’s classic myths are retold as never before, in her own voice, as the young goddess sets the record straight and reveals the true account of her immortal life – and love.

Rating: 4/5 Penguins
Quick Reasons: new and intriguing subject matter for C.K. Brooke!; complex, well-rounded characters; LOVE the mythology; interesting experiment in a different type of writing; this read a bit like a diary; I was SO ANGRY...and then the ending happened, and everything was better

Huge thanks to C.K. Brooke, Elphame Press, and YA Bound Book Tours for sending me a free digital copy of this title in exchange for an honest review! This in no way altered my read of or opinions on this book.

"You are beautiful," Orion told me one morning as we lay ashore, my head on his chest while we watched the sluggish tides. "The most beautiful of all the goddesses."

"Don't let Hera hear you say that," I warned him, though with a smile.

He skimmed my cheek with the bulb of his thumb. "If she sent you to Hades, I would follow you there. And evermore should I dwell with you down in the Underworld."

This was a different sort of read from C.K. Brooke. Of course, this doesn't mean EVERYTHING was different--the characters, particularly Artemis, were still super snarky, independent, and well-rounded. In fact, I ADORE how strong-willed Artemis is throughout this entire read--she doesn't bow down to anyone's wishes, but instead charges full-speed toward what she wants. There are so many awesome moments woven throughout this journey that prove women don't HAVE to be meek and mild; we can, and should, forge our own paths and create our own rules.

The plot is fast-paced, though a little bit weird in places. I felt like this read more as a "diary" format than as a linear story, though the sequence of events IS in order. There was something a little weird about C.K. Brooke's writing in this particular book--I'm not sure if she was trying something different, or what, but it felt a bit more stiff than her usual work. This isn't necessarily a bad thing, though--it gave this read a more subdued, darker tone and atmosphere, which really worked with the mythologies C.K. Brooke drew inspiration from.

Humans were peculiar creatures. While speaking directly to them had worked with the Cretan women, direct communication didn't work with everyone. Especially if men were involved. Because men--all of them, even gods--aren't likely to do as they're told.

I will be honest: this book made me SUPER angry. Of course, I wasn't well-versed in Artemis's story to begin with, so the things that angered me are probably well-known and unsurprising. Those bits of the story, though... Several times I felt like throwing my Kindle out the window and screaming my heartache to the winds, because goodness, those moments hurt! Just be warned, penguins--I won't go into TOO many details, because spoilers, but this book is bound to hurt you at least three times. At least.

I am always super impressed with C.K. Brooke's world-building and character creations, and this title is no exception! While some of the plot points made me angry (because GRRRRR!), the read was filled with new material (for C.K. Brooke in terms of writing, and for me as well in terms of mythologies). I really enjoyed breaking the mold with this read, and recommend to lovers of Greek mythology, strong-willed women, and slightly tragic journeys. Put down your skirts and take a walk through the stars, penguins; with this book, the mountains will feel like home.

[Cynthia · Rating 3 out of 5]

Artemis has quite the tale to tell.

All she wanted was a companion to hunt with, and falling in love with Orion was just the natural conclusion.

Her sorrow was palpable; I felt for her in her grief. I'm glad she was able to move on from her suffering by finding joy in other facts of life. But, I also know all too well the pain never fully goes away.

In the end, Artemis receives her HEA!

[Michele DeLuca · Rating 5 out of 5]

The "Secrets of Artemis" is the story of the coming of age of the Greek goddess Artemis, told through the imaginative lens of fantasy writer C.K. Brooke.
I wish I would have had something like this to read when I was in the 9th grade and trying to learn about Greek Mythology. I was never able to care much back then about the Greek gods and goddesses because their stories never touched my heart.
That all changed with this book, when the 16-year-old Artemis, goddess of the hunt, came to life for me, and the legendary details of her life were expanded upon through Brooke's capable storytelling.
The story of Artemis told throughout history is that she remained a virgin through the decree of her father Zeus, the King of the Gods, despite her great friendship with the giant, handsome and kind hunter Orion. But this story proposes that she and Orion were secret lovers despite her father's wishes.
Many of the characters of Greek mythology came to life for me in "Secrets of Artemis." I think this would be a great book to share with young people if you want to captivate them with the stories of the gods and goddesses worshiped at at time when civilization was young.
Like all successful young adult novels, it's an entertaining and satisfying read for adults as well.

[Mary Bernsen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again, C.K. Brooke has impressed me with this incredible, breath-taking romance. I loved how each of the Greek Gods & Goddesses retained so much of their traditional myths, but had fresh, almost human qualities about them as well. Complex, well-developed characters made me their friend. When the unthinkable happened, I gasped. When tragedy struck, I mourned. And when it all came together for a happily ever after, I celebrated. The love story between Orion and Artemis was unique yet classic, intimate and rebellious I've mentioned this in another review for C.K. Brooke, but I feel it warrants repeating: her writing style is what truly draws me into her stories. There's such an natural flow to the story-line, and every word, no matter how simple, plays on your heart strings. Secrets of Artemis is a beautiful tale that I would read again and again.

*I received a complimentary copy and voluntarily gave a honest review*

[I.A. Cintron · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a nice recount of the myth of Lady Artemis, retelling her story from her point of view, the hardships she passed, how she fell in love with Orion and loved no other, Apollo was a jerk and deceiving her into killing her love was a dick move but then he repented, and she found a way to stay with her love and kept her status as a maiden goddess intact and that ending was so cute I had to punch my brother to feel manly again....

[J.A. Cintron · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a good retelling of the Artemis myth and for once Zeus is not a jerk but instead Apollo is like always. But back to our main goddess I loved this story because it was hilarious reading about something you already know about and have the protagonist literally dismantle it and tell you that what you know its pure lies. This book highly reminds me of Eva Pohler's Gatekeepers Bride where she retells the Hades and Persephone myth.

[Alicia Simmons · Rating 5 out of 5]

Intriguing

I could barely tear myself away! An amazing book! Time flew as I was reading. One of the best books I've ever read!

[Erin Guinevere · Rating 3 out of 5]

I've always had a thing for YA retellings of Greek myths. Something about Greek Myths are oddly adaptable for the Young Adult genre. Perhaps because of the youth of many of the gods and heroes. It is fun and interesting to read about their innermost thoughts. Not only are they gods and heroes, they are young people, and I think the young readers (myself included, although I am now approaching my mid twenties and no longer considered a youth by most people's categorization) of these books appreciate that.

I was skeptical about this book going in. For one, I have a problem with the idea that one of the few virgin (as in unmarried) goddesses of the Ancient Greek pantheon actually did take a male lover and marry him, but I can see how the idea that she did so *on her own terms* is empowering to some young women. The other issue was, though less bothersome to me than the former, was the fact that the cover depicted a woman clearly in her thirties. I know that's not important and we shouldn't judge a book by its cover, but that did irk me a little on a book claiming to be a 'teen goddess novel' (as well as her very modern attire).

This book had many lovely moments. The romance was believable and well-written. But in particular, I adored Artemis's relationship with the baby she briefly cares for, Atalanta. Absolutely lovely and introduced me to some mythology I didn't know about.

There were some minor spelling and grammar mistakes here and there, which was a little jarring from an award winning book, but as it is an indie/self published publication I get it.

But here's my biggest issue. Some may see this as a nitpick, as me being a 'snowflake', but I was truly hurt by the depiction of Aura and Artemis's relationship. I am familiar with the myth and while Aura's rape and subsequent descent in to monstrous madness was heartbreaking, I understood why it was necessary to portray in a book about Artemis and her mythos. What I absolutely hated was how little sympathy Artemis seemed to have after her former companion expressed that she had no desire to be a mother. It was almost as if she was expecting the birth of the twins to heal Aura from the trauma she had endured. This is the same rhetoric that anti-abortion activists use to argue that rape victims shouldn't be entitled to abortions.

Aside from that, there was the issue of complete and utter lesbian/sapphic erasure from this retelling. While there is some debate as to whether or not Artemis had romantic or sexual relations with her nymphs (as lesbian women fit under the definition of 'virgin' since they did not consort sexually with men), the book completely fails to acknowledge that women can take other women as lovers. Artemis feels sad for Aura, believing that her distate for men means 'she will never know love'. One might argue that this is Artemis's voice and not the authors, but the author CHOSE to write Artemis this way. She CHOSE to have a goddess who is often associated with sapphic love imply that a woman who does not have relations with men was destined to a life without love, sex and romance.

Anyway, this isn't a proper review my any means, but I just had to air some of my frustrations. To be honest, I mainly read this because I was excited to read the second book about Guinevere, being that she is a favourite historical figure of mine, and felt compelled to read the first book in the series first even though the two aren't connected in any meaningful way as far as I know.

[OldBird · Rating 3 out of 5]

A simple and clean reworking of the mythology of Artemis, this has all the hallmarks of something that would be perfect for a young person just starting out into Young Adult fantasy and mythology. It doesn't require any prior knowledge of the Gods of Olympus - adult aficionados will probably raise an eyebrow at the female empowerment changes to the story, but it's still remarkably uplifting.

I enjoyed the easy to read narration as we get Artemis' side of the story - how Zeus made decisions for her, how her brother Apollo could be a bit overbearing, how Orion came into her life ect ect. It's a run through of all the key mythology points told with a more feminist slant, though not the heavy-handed, slapping-you-in-the-face kind; it's very nicely done. Romance is open and chaste, and while there's mention of some of the things the Gods were rumoured to have gotten up to there's no explicit scenarios or dwelling on violence. It does read like a light YA novel with the odd touch of modern language to make it more accessible (never fear, the Olympians don't speak street slang or anything like that!)

As an adult reader I did find it very simplistic, but get the feeling that I'd have really liked the style when I was younger. It keeps just enough of the dark strangeness of the mythology to give it edge, but not enough to give kids nightmares.

Short, sweet and easy to read, it's a fun concept that's just right for a newbie YA reader or a lazy afternoon.

[Jamie Bee · Rating 3 out of 5]

Who is the True Artemis?

This author has done some pretty clever retellings of classic fairy tales in other books, and with this book, she adds a retelling of mythology, the story of Artemis as told by the young goddess herself. As stated in the prologue, she wishes her true story to be known, not just how it is believed by men. Compared to her books about Guinevere and Lady Marian, this stuck more truthfully to the legends’ traditional paths, with variances for each meeting/scene or encounter with others that showed this slightly different version of Artemis’ reaction to it all. She is certainly not always comfortable with the gifts given to her by her father, Zeus, and it takes some time for her to come into her own. For those who are a bit squeamish (or are devoted animal lovers), this book does have a fair amount of hunting, which makes sense as Artemis is the goddess of the hunt. I do love twists on mythology, as this one is, and found this to be a fun read.

I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.

My book blog: https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com

[Judy Gittleson Hendrickson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A special retelling of the mythological Artemis the Huntress. The characters have such a full depth about them and their backstories lend understanding of their situations. Artemis and Orion get it going, but like any goes, unexpected twists and turns provide major suspense and high/low emotional states. You will want to pull your hair out, but can not put the book down as it really can not end this way, right? Just how many ways can your emotions go>

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Tyler Lange · Rating 5 out of 5]

excellent retelling

Not only was the story of Artemis retold in such a unique light, but the introduction/stories of the other gods and goddesses was very well done. I love mythology and retellings. This book was so good I hope the author does more. Never read a book so quickly. Perfect balance of love/hate, selflessness/selfishness, independence/companionship, masculine/feminine.

[Yvette · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am fascinated by Artemis as a goddess and love reading anything about her. This cover belies the story though. It is pitched to a teen audience but it has so much depth and understanding of Artemis. The author makes the events sound believable as the emotions are so true. I will definitely seek out more work by this author.

[Christina Thompson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A creative way to bring myth and legends to life in the retelling of the Greek Goddess Artemis. An entertaining story perfect for the young adult reader. This is woman power at its finest. I bought the set for my sixteen-year-old niece. She graciously let me read them first. I know she’s going to love them. It’ll also solidify my status as her favorite aunt.

[Raewynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the delightful story of Artemis, as seen from her perspective.

You get all sorts of stories of the Gods and Goddesses but, this one (she thinks, Artemis that is) straightens out some of the stories and myths and puts her spin on things.

A thoroughly enjoyable story from C.K.Brooke.

[Thewritersrampage · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great book by C.K.Brooke, another amazing retelling! I don't know how she does it, but the secret of Artemis is probably one of my favorites so far of hers. Her writing is so well thought out and well detailed! If you like god retelling, this one is for you!

[tburbr · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was an entertaining read filled with a nice twist on classic myths. While I enjoyed this book, it was not my favorite as it is geared toward a younger audience than I belong to.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Dorothy Scott · Rating 4 out of 5]

Artemis is a huntress and as strong willed as her father. I really enjoyed the twist in this retelling of the myth, and felt the author created excellent character development.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[SANDRA · Rating 3 out of 5]

surprisingly well written

It’s a great YA book. Could use more depth to the story. I kept hoping for more to feel more from the characters from Artemis herself. More complexity was need to really engage me. Again it is a good YA fantasy book.

[gj indieBRAG · Rating 5 out of 5]

We are proud to announce that ZOYSANA’S Choice by Gordon A Long is a B.R.A.G.Medallion Honoree. This tells a reader that this book is well worth their time and money!

[Janani Preethi]

Nice

[Dagny · Rating 4 out of 5]

I like it

It was an interesting take on Artemis. I like that she got to fall in love and stay that way.

[S.F. Hardy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Motown Review
This goddess has a story to tell; and she wants to set the record straight by telling it herself--the other's, have it all wrong!
When she was far too young to understand, Artemis's father, Zeus (god of the sky, lightening, thunder, law, order and justice) bestowed upon her several gifts--along with a curse.
The story started off slow but soon propelled into the island of Crete intrigue. C.K. Brooke's storytelling captures those who are the least knowledgeable or interested in Greek Mythology, while also pleasing those who are fans of Greek Mythology. Artemis has a giant crush--literally. Stop! Wait! This can't be. What about Artemis's, chastity? It probably is in the wind with her custom silver arrows as the fearless goddess of the hunt risks everything, going against her father's wishes and her brother's advisement; falling in love with her hunting partner and only friend.

I enjoyed reading Secrets of Artemis; I'm anxiously anticipating the titles to follow. The story is well rounded, evoking a range of emotions. My interest never waned, I read the book from cover-to-cover in just a few hours. Not being astute with Greek Mythology, I found the glossary pretty handy; a great addition to the novel. I will definitely place the book on my readers advisory list as I give the Secrets of Artemis (Teen Goddess #1), 4 books out of 5.

[Kati · Rating 3 out of 5]

A new take on the life of Artemis and different tales of the Greek Gods. A look into the Goddess of the Hunt told in first-person perspective. Artemis is a well known Greek Goddess and seeing her story told in the first person in a different perspective to that in the history books was refreshing. I love Greek Mythology so the concept of this book really spoke to me. The general plot of the book was engaging and flowed well. Artemis’ character read as if she were human and relatable to the reader. The relationship between Artemis and Orion was interesting to read about. Overall, this was an enjoyable book that provided a new perspective on the story of Artemis.

[Ctrl, Alt Books! · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let me begin by saying that mythology has always been a genre I have held dear to my heart! When I first started reading the book, I thought it would be similar to those I have read before portraying the goddess Artemis. However, this book did not disappoint.

Combining myth with a bit of the authors perspective and the feelings that were portrayed, this book had me entwined within its grasps. I fell in love with this book. I kept reading until the last page and that is when I realized I had to be up for work within a few hours. It was nothing like what I had read before. I highly recommend those with a love for similar genres or mythology, romance, paranormal romance to add this book, or begin reading it right away if you need something new and fresh. This is one you will not be disappointed with.

5/5
~Marie

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

A finely crafted combination of mythological fantasy, coming of age, discovering one's true nature and romance. The story begins with the birth of Artemis, daughter of Zeus, and her twin brother, Apollo, whose birth she attends and aides.
While she is the ultimate daddy's girl, and seems to understand her calling from the very start of life, she also takes her time to define for herself how she is going to live.

Suitable for high school age readers, this will be enjoyed by readers of all ages. The characters are endearing, even when almost scandalous. There is gossip and intrigue and revelation.
If you have any interest in fantasy, mythology, or even enjoy stories about the night sky you will enjoy this book.

[Gabby (What's Beyond Forks?) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Full Review at: What's Beyond Forks?

This story is told entirely from Artemis's point of view. It was a wonderful retelling of her entire life. The author took apart the myth and reassembled it as her own, and the writing was so well put together and thought out that at times, it made me forget what was unique to this story and what was from the original myth. It all just seemed to fit with the whole idea of Artemis.

Secrets of Artemis by C.K. Brooke was kindly provided to me by YA Bound Book Tours for review. The opinions are my own.