What do you think?
Rate this book
Immortal: The House of Ganymede
"Haunting, relatable queer YA reimagining of the myth of Ganymede." ~ Publishers Weekly
Rated as RECOMMENDED (the highest rating) by the US Review of Books
This contemporary story is inspired by ancient Greek mythology, whereby Ganymede, the most beautiful mortal, is pursued and kidnapped by Zeus to serve as the cup-bearer to the gods of Mount Olympus.
Jason, a beautiful gay teen, is being pursued by different people, for different purposes. But Jason is also in pursuit of it all — fame, fortune, and romance.
As he begins to explore his Queer identity, what sacrifices must he make in order to be chosen as the face of IMMORTAL, a new line of self-care products for men? Is it possible to have it all?
The story is timeless, but re-imagined in a contemporary setting, reflecting on themes such as peer pressure, cultural conflicts, the allure of social media, and the complexities of coming out in today's atmosphere.
Though written for young adults, readers of all ages will enjoy this thought-provoking and engaging story.
Violence
Suicide
Rated as RECOMMENDED (the highest rating) by the US Review of Books
This contemporary story is inspired by ancient Greek mythology, whereby Ganymede, the most beautiful mortal, is pursued and kidnapped by Zeus to serve as the cup-bearer to the gods of Mount Olympus.
Jason, a beautiful gay teen, is being pursued by different people, for different purposes. But Jason is also in pursuit of it all — fame, fortune, and romance.
As he begins to explore his Queer identity, what sacrifices must he make in order to be chosen as the face of IMMORTAL, a new line of self-care products for men? Is it possible to have it all?
The story is timeless, but re-imagined in a contemporary setting, reflecting on themes such as peer pressure, cultural conflicts, the allure of social media, and the complexities of coming out in today's atmosphere.
Though written for young adults, readers of all ages will enjoy this thought-provoking and engaging story.
Violence
Suicide
- GenresFantasy
207 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 19, 2025
3 people are currently reading
509 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
May 26, 2025
Robert A. Karl’s IMMORTAL: The House of Ganymede is a compelling, genre-blending novel that reimagines ancient myth through a vibrant, modern lens. Drawing inspiration from the story of Ganymede—the beautiful shepherd boy of Troy taken to Mount Olympus by Zeus—Karl breathes new life into this mythological tale by placing it within the high-stakes world of global tech, luxury branding, and self-discovery. The result is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant young adult novel that explores identity, autonomy, and the seductive power of influence.
The protagonist, Jason, is a young man standing at the crossroads of personal awakening. Recently beginning to embrace and explore his Queer identity, he finds himself suddenly caught in the orbit of the charismatic billionaire who owns ZEUS Universal Group, a global tech empire known for its work in artificial intelligence and robotics. As the company prepares to launch a new, high-profile men’s self-care line called IMMORTAL, Jason is offered the opportunity to become its public face—a role that promises status, luxury, and the illusion of control. Yet underneath the glittering surface lies a deeper question: what will it cost him?
Karl does a remarkable job of translating myth into modern symbolism. Just as Ganymede was taken to Olympus, Jason is lifted from his humble life into a world that demands sacrifice in exchange for immortality—not in the literal sense, but through the manufactured permanence of image, branding, and curated identity. The setting, which includes ZEUS’s advanced data center powered by the natural force of Niagara Falls, further underscores the tension between organic humanity and the engineered perfection of corporate ambition. The interplay between myth and modernity enriches the story, giving it both emotional and intellectual weight.
What truly elevates IMMORTAL is its treatment of themes relevant to today’s youth: the search for belonging, the pull between authenticity and expectation, and the often invisible cost of ambition. Through Jason’s journey, the novel examines the complexities of power dynamics, emotional vulnerability, and the blurred lines between being seen and being consumed. Supporting characters bring warmth, loyalty, and depth, offering Jason moments of reflection amid the noise of fame and pressure. As Jason grapples with who he is and what he wants, readers are invited to reflect on their own values and boundaries in a world increasingly defined by image and influence. Ultimately, IMMORTAL: The House of Ganymede is a smart, nuanced, and emotionally engaging novel that redefines myth for the modern reader. Robert A. Karl masterfully blends timeless storytelling with pressing contemporary themes, crafting a narrative that is as beautiful as it is brave. It is a coming-of-age tale wrapped in romance, mythology, and social commentary—a powerful exploration of what it means to be seen, to be desired, and most importantly, to be true to oneself.
The protagonist, Jason, is a young man standing at the crossroads of personal awakening. Recently beginning to embrace and explore his Queer identity, he finds himself suddenly caught in the orbit of the charismatic billionaire who owns ZEUS Universal Group, a global tech empire known for its work in artificial intelligence and robotics. As the company prepares to launch a new, high-profile men’s self-care line called IMMORTAL, Jason is offered the opportunity to become its public face—a role that promises status, luxury, and the illusion of control. Yet underneath the glittering surface lies a deeper question: what will it cost him?
Karl does a remarkable job of translating myth into modern symbolism. Just as Ganymede was taken to Olympus, Jason is lifted from his humble life into a world that demands sacrifice in exchange for immortality—not in the literal sense, but through the manufactured permanence of image, branding, and curated identity. The setting, which includes ZEUS’s advanced data center powered by the natural force of Niagara Falls, further underscores the tension between organic humanity and the engineered perfection of corporate ambition. The interplay between myth and modernity enriches the story, giving it both emotional and intellectual weight.
What truly elevates IMMORTAL is its treatment of themes relevant to today’s youth: the search for belonging, the pull between authenticity and expectation, and the often invisible cost of ambition. Through Jason’s journey, the novel examines the complexities of power dynamics, emotional vulnerability, and the blurred lines between being seen and being consumed. Supporting characters bring warmth, loyalty, and depth, offering Jason moments of reflection amid the noise of fame and pressure. As Jason grapples with who he is and what he wants, readers are invited to reflect on their own values and boundaries in a world increasingly defined by image and influence. Ultimately, IMMORTAL: The House of Ganymede is a smart, nuanced, and emotionally engaging novel that redefines myth for the modern reader. Robert A. Karl masterfully blends timeless storytelling with pressing contemporary themes, crafting a narrative that is as beautiful as it is brave. It is a coming-of-age tale wrapped in romance, mythology, and social commentary—a powerful exploration of what it means to be seen, to be desired, and most importantly, to be true to oneself.
September 21, 2025
Not my usual read, but I’m glad I did.
This isn’t my usual sort of book, but I was determined not to judge this particular one by its cover. IMMORTAL: The House of Ganymede somehow blends a modern teen’s coming-of-age story with the splendour and depth of ancient Greek myth. Although, on the surface, this is a YA tale of Jason, high school student grappling with his sexuality, friendships and place in the world, it is also a retelling, reimaginging even, the story of Zeus and Ganymede juxtaposed against contemporary life, complete with the (awful) pressures of social meida, possibility of fame and the desperate need to be truly seen.
Ganymede was, of course, a beautiful Trojan prince and the most handsome of mortals. His beauty caught the attention of Zeus, who granted him immortality and eternal youth. Robert Karl’s IMMORTAL picks up those threads in a modern setting: Jason is a strikingly handsome teenager who longs for acceptance and recognition. When he’s noticed by a powerful figure (Zeus, recast as a charismatic billionaire), Jason is offered fame, beauty and other trappings; however, just as in the myth, there’s a cost: Jason is pressured to leave behind parts of himself, his relationships and even his freedom.
Karl has worked hard on his characters. Jason feels authentic whilst flawed, and is easy to like. His mistakes make you feel for him, and his successes are worth a little personal celebration. Jason’s relationships are deeply complex, particularly with his best friend, Youngsoo, and, inevitably, with Zeus Vasiliadis. Who amongst us also fell for an older, wiser and far more powerful man/woman in our late teens? These are characters that feel real, even the supporting cast.
Karl’s writing is both elegant and straightforward in his balancing of ancient myth and modern immediacy. IMMORTAL presents a full range of emotions, some of which are subtle, while others are frankly direct. His narrative choices add a richness and perspective that draw us into his story, supported by sharp dialogue and a brisk pace. Even when the book takes a dark turn, the writing remains strong. I was engaged throughout and wish I had started reading it as soon as I hit ‘buy’!
This isn’t my usual sort of book, but I was determined not to judge this particular one by its cover. IMMORTAL: The House of Ganymede somehow blends a modern teen’s coming-of-age story with the splendour and depth of ancient Greek myth. Although, on the surface, this is a YA tale of Jason, high school student grappling with his sexuality, friendships and place in the world, it is also a retelling, reimaginging even, the story of Zeus and Ganymede juxtaposed against contemporary life, complete with the (awful) pressures of social meida, possibility of fame and the desperate need to be truly seen.
Ganymede was, of course, a beautiful Trojan prince and the most handsome of mortals. His beauty caught the attention of Zeus, who granted him immortality and eternal youth. Robert Karl’s IMMORTAL picks up those threads in a modern setting: Jason is a strikingly handsome teenager who longs for acceptance and recognition. When he’s noticed by a powerful figure (Zeus, recast as a charismatic billionaire), Jason is offered fame, beauty and other trappings; however, just as in the myth, there’s a cost: Jason is pressured to leave behind parts of himself, his relationships and even his freedom.
Karl has worked hard on his characters. Jason feels authentic whilst flawed, and is easy to like. His mistakes make you feel for him, and his successes are worth a little personal celebration. Jason’s relationships are deeply complex, particularly with his best friend, Youngsoo, and, inevitably, with Zeus Vasiliadis. Who amongst us also fell for an older, wiser and far more powerful man/woman in our late teens? These are characters that feel real, even the supporting cast.
Karl’s writing is both elegant and straightforward in his balancing of ancient myth and modern immediacy. IMMORTAL presents a full range of emotions, some of which are subtle, while others are frankly direct. His narrative choices add a richness and perspective that draw us into his story, supported by sharp dialogue and a brisk pace. Even when the book takes a dark turn, the writing remains strong. I was engaged throughout and wish I had started reading it as soon as I hit ‘buy’!
June 12, 2025
I recently read *IMMORTAL: The House of Ganymede* by Robert A. Karl, and it’s a captivating, modern twist on Greek mythology that dives deep into identity and ambition. This YA novel follows Jason, a strikingly handsome young man exploring his Queer identity, who catches the eye of a powerful Greek billionaire from ZEUS Universal Group. The company’s new AI-driven venture near Niagara Falls sets the stage for a story that’s as thought-provoking as it is emotional.
What I loved most was how Karl reimagines the myth of Ganymede. Jason’s journey—being courted to become the face of IMMORTAL, a men’s self-care line—mirrors the original tale but feels fresh with themes of fame, sacrifice, and staying true to oneself. The billionaire’s allure of luxury is tempting, but the story asks tough questions: What’s the cost of success? Can Jason hold onto his identity? The exploration of his Queer identity is handled with sensitivity, weaving in romance and friendship that feel authentic and heartfelt.
The pacing keeps you hooked, blending glamour with darker moments. The content warnings for violence and suicide are apt, as the story doesn’t shy away from heavy themes, but they’re woven in thoughtfully, adding depth to Jason’s choices. The Niagara Falls setting is vivid, grounding the high-stakes drama in a real-world backdrop. I also appreciated the supporting characters—Jason’s friends add warmth and tension, making his journey feel personal.
Karl’s writing is engaging, with a knack for balancing introspective moments and plot-driven excitement. My only quibble is that some AI and corporate details felt a bit dense, but they didn’t detract from the heart of the story. *IMMORTAL* is a compelling read for anyone who loves mythology-inspired YA with rich themes of identity, love, and sacrifice. I’m eager for more from this world!
What I loved most was how Karl reimagines the myth of Ganymede. Jason’s journey—being courted to become the face of IMMORTAL, a men’s self-care line—mirrors the original tale but feels fresh with themes of fame, sacrifice, and staying true to oneself. The billionaire’s allure of luxury is tempting, but the story asks tough questions: What’s the cost of success? Can Jason hold onto his identity? The exploration of his Queer identity is handled with sensitivity, weaving in romance and friendship that feel authentic and heartfelt.
The pacing keeps you hooked, blending glamour with darker moments. The content warnings for violence and suicide are apt, as the story doesn’t shy away from heavy themes, but they’re woven in thoughtfully, adding depth to Jason’s choices. The Niagara Falls setting is vivid, grounding the high-stakes drama in a real-world backdrop. I also appreciated the supporting characters—Jason’s friends add warmth and tension, making his journey feel personal.
Karl’s writing is engaging, with a knack for balancing introspective moments and plot-driven excitement. My only quibble is that some AI and corporate details felt a bit dense, but they didn’t detract from the heart of the story. *IMMORTAL* is a compelling read for anyone who loves mythology-inspired YA with rich themes of identity, love, and sacrifice. I’m eager for more from this world!
July 22, 2025
Robert A. Karl, author of the Clubbed series of books and The Goldies: 50th High School Reunion, returns with Immortal: The House of Ganymede, a tale that mixes gay teen drama with timely topics, social media, and Greek mythology.
Inspired by a role model who comes out, Jason wants to reveal his true self to his best friend and secret crush. To put it mildly, Jason’s plan goes awry.
While searching for acceptance and befriending a new student, Jason finds himself involved with her twin brother, Youngsoo, an out and proud gay teen. He also becomes involved with the ZEUS Universal Group and the face of their male skin-care line, IMMORTAL.
The Greek mythology enters slowly into a story that at first reads like a typical coming out story. That blending allows Robert A. Karl to create something unusual from familiar but disparate story elements. More importantly, the emotions drive the story, with Jason wanting comfort, love, acceptance, and even adulation.
The modern allure of social media acclaim blinds Jason to the misogyny and elitism of his new companions, though we still get flashes of his insights within his thoughts and observations. He seems to have risen above the homophobia he faced but still finds himself surrounded by people who look down on others.
Another person with condescending attitudes might be planning something much worse than Jason ever predicted. Despite the complicated tensions and ambitions within the story, Karl keeps the narrative moving at a brisk pace that never gets bogged down by its mixed elements. Some of the reviews I read of this book give too much away, so I’ll just say to read it for yourself and be ready for some strong emotions.
Inspired by a role model who comes out, Jason wants to reveal his true self to his best friend and secret crush. To put it mildly, Jason’s plan goes awry.
While searching for acceptance and befriending a new student, Jason finds himself involved with her twin brother, Youngsoo, an out and proud gay teen. He also becomes involved with the ZEUS Universal Group and the face of their male skin-care line, IMMORTAL.
The Greek mythology enters slowly into a story that at first reads like a typical coming out story. That blending allows Robert A. Karl to create something unusual from familiar but disparate story elements. More importantly, the emotions drive the story, with Jason wanting comfort, love, acceptance, and even adulation.
The modern allure of social media acclaim blinds Jason to the misogyny and elitism of his new companions, though we still get flashes of his insights within his thoughts and observations. He seems to have risen above the homophobia he faced but still finds himself surrounded by people who look down on others.
Another person with condescending attitudes might be planning something much worse than Jason ever predicted. Despite the complicated tensions and ambitions within the story, Karl keeps the narrative moving at a brisk pace that never gets bogged down by its mixed elements. Some of the reviews I read of this book give too much away, so I’ll just say to read it for yourself and be ready for some strong emotions.
August 22, 2025
Robert Karl's IMMORTAL is richly imagined and ingeniously crafted. This intriguing reinterpretation of mythology takes place in a small county called Niagara Falls. The story's retold in a way that eliminates the inconsistencies that are infused in the original tale of Zeus and Ganymede's mysterious relationship. Only this time, the author created a solid tale that explores what it means to be human. Exploring their own tremendous capacity for love, hate, hope, despair and in one character: redemption, as he seeks to reconcile with the main character, Jason.
Immortal: The House of Ganymede is dramatic and shocking. Bold and beautiful. We explore mortal limitations and we learn to defy the limitations placed on us by other people's expectations. The main character discovers his own identity and embraces it, instead of allowing conventional social norms to silence him. The topics discussed around sexual orientation raise awareness of everyday real-life struggles for those who are opposing the forces that wish to deny them happiness solely because of being part of the LGBTQ+ community.
The end is like a volcanic eruption disrupting our weather patterns. Robert Karl himself is the rare creator of his own myth. IMMORTAL: The House of Ganymede is simply beautiful. It's full of unexpected twists that lend authenticity to the seemingly-normal lives of all the characters. The old and new tales are woven together in both theme and language. Part homage and part reimagined. Full of teen torment and unexpected destinies. This retelling of a classic story is an absorbing read that should be incorporated into everybody's lives.
Immortal: The House of Ganymede is dramatic and shocking. Bold and beautiful. We explore mortal limitations and we learn to defy the limitations placed on us by other people's expectations. The main character discovers his own identity and embraces it, instead of allowing conventional social norms to silence him. The topics discussed around sexual orientation raise awareness of everyday real-life struggles for those who are opposing the forces that wish to deny them happiness solely because of being part of the LGBTQ+ community.
The end is like a volcanic eruption disrupting our weather patterns. Robert Karl himself is the rare creator of his own myth. IMMORTAL: The House of Ganymede is simply beautiful. It's full of unexpected twists that lend authenticity to the seemingly-normal lives of all the characters. The old and new tales are woven together in both theme and language. Part homage and part reimagined. Full of teen torment and unexpected destinies. This retelling of a classic story is an absorbing read that should be incorporated into everybody's lives.
July 2, 2025
Immortal: The House of Ganymede is a powerful and emotional coming-of-age novel that blends modern teenage life with ancient Greek mythology. At the heart of the story is Jason, a beautiful and sensitive teen growing up in a small town near Niagara Falls. As he begins to explore his queer identity, Jason faces both admiration and cruelty from those around him.
The story begins with humor and high school drama but slowly deepens into a moving tale of identity, love, rejection, and transformation. Jason’s journey—from being a shy student to becoming the global face of a luxury brand called IMMORTAL—is filled with both excitement and pain. Inspired by the myth of Ganymede, the novel cleverly uses ancient themes to reflect modern struggles: how beauty can be both a gift and a trap, and how fame can steal a person’s soul.
What makes this book truly special is its honest and heartfelt portrayal of queer youth. Jason’s heartbreak when he is rejected by his best friend Timmy is deeply painful, yet his later connection with Youngsoo offers hope and healing. The ending is tragic, but it also brings light—reminding readers that even in loss, love and courage can leave a lasting legacy.
With elegant yet simple language, Robert A. Karl delivers a story that is both timely and timeless. IMMORTAL is a celebration of self-discovery, resilience, and the belief that every life—especially one lived with authenticity—can change the world.
The story begins with humor and high school drama but slowly deepens into a moving tale of identity, love, rejection, and transformation. Jason’s journey—from being a shy student to becoming the global face of a luxury brand called IMMORTAL—is filled with both excitement and pain. Inspired by the myth of Ganymede, the novel cleverly uses ancient themes to reflect modern struggles: how beauty can be both a gift and a trap, and how fame can steal a person’s soul.
What makes this book truly special is its honest and heartfelt portrayal of queer youth. Jason’s heartbreak when he is rejected by his best friend Timmy is deeply painful, yet his later connection with Youngsoo offers hope and healing. The ending is tragic, but it also brings light—reminding readers that even in loss, love and courage can leave a lasting legacy.
With elegant yet simple language, Robert A. Karl delivers a story that is both timely and timeless. IMMORTAL is a celebration of self-discovery, resilience, and the belief that every life—especially one lived with authenticity—can change the world.
July 9, 2025
Okay, so IMMORTAL was kind of a wild ride—in a good way! I thought it would just be some sad story about a gay teen, but nope. It had drama, emotions, glam, and even Greek gods vibes. I was hooked by Chapter 2. Especially it was great on a lazy afternoon after some spicy noodles and soda.
Jason, the main guy, is ridiculously good-looking and trying to figure himself out in a boring town. He’s got a crush on his best friend (who doesn’t?), gets rejected hard (ouch), and then suddenly—bam!—he’s discovered by a rich dude who wants to make him the next big thing. Think modeling + fame + Greek mythology remix.
Honestly, it felt like watching a coming-of-age movie with a bit of a dark twist. There’s this cool Korean girl, Youngmi, and her brother Youngsoo, who becomes super important later. The characters felt real—not perfect, but interesting.
The part where Jason becomes “Ganymede” and gets swept into this fake, glossy world was both fun and kinda creepy. Like, it shows how fame can mess with your head.
I didn’t expect the ending to hit me so hard. It was powerful. And the idea of a community center being created in Jason’s name? Beautiful.
If you like stories that mix real-life issues with mythology, fashion, feelings, and a lot of heart—read this one. It’s different, and it works.
Jason, the main guy, is ridiculously good-looking and trying to figure himself out in a boring town. He’s got a crush on his best friend (who doesn’t?), gets rejected hard (ouch), and then suddenly—bam!—he’s discovered by a rich dude who wants to make him the next big thing. Think modeling + fame + Greek mythology remix.
Honestly, it felt like watching a coming-of-age movie with a bit of a dark twist. There’s this cool Korean girl, Youngmi, and her brother Youngsoo, who becomes super important later. The characters felt real—not perfect, but interesting.
The part where Jason becomes “Ganymede” and gets swept into this fake, glossy world was both fun and kinda creepy. Like, it shows how fame can mess with your head.
I didn’t expect the ending to hit me so hard. It was powerful. And the idea of a community center being created in Jason’s name? Beautiful.
If you like stories that mix real-life issues with mythology, fashion, feelings, and a lot of heart—read this one. It’s different, and it works.
August 13, 2025
I was excited to read this book because I have recently been reading the Percy Jackson series. So I was eager to delve into more Greek mythology. I must say, this book did not disappoint in that regard. The story of Ganymede was wrapped up throughout the plot and the characters. It even had a very unexpected tragic ending. Due to content warnings, I had some ideas of what was coming but I hadn't expected it to hit me so hard when it did come. I found myself rooting for Jason, the main character, throughout while also wincing every time he made a decision that I felt was bad and would lead him to something terrible.
The reason I gave this book a four star out of five is because the writing style was incredibly difficult to get into, especially in the beginning. I will say it took me about 50-70 pages (a fourth of the book) before I was able to put the writing style aside because I was invested in the characters. It is written in a third person omniscient point of view, which is always hard to pull off well and is not a style that I am fond of. On top of that, there were some tense issues (switching between past and present tense) throughout the book. Aside from these small issues, I did enjoy the story, even though the ending was gut-wrenching. I have to wonder what the two main side characters (Timmy and Youngsoo) do in the aftermath.
The reason I gave this book a four star out of five is because the writing style was incredibly difficult to get into, especially in the beginning. I will say it took me about 50-70 pages (a fourth of the book) before I was able to put the writing style aside because I was invested in the characters. It is written in a third person omniscient point of view, which is always hard to pull off well and is not a style that I am fond of. On top of that, there were some tense issues (switching between past and present tense) throughout the book. Aside from these small issues, I did enjoy the story, even though the ending was gut-wrenching. I have to wonder what the two main side characters (Timmy and Youngsoo) do in the aftermath.
July 8, 2025
Read with my book club over iced coffee and donuts.
Here’s my honest take on IMMORTAL: The House of Ganymede — but I’ll keep it organized:
✓ Main character: Jason = gorgeous, charming, trying hard to figure himself out. You root for him right away.
✓ Setting: Niagara Falls, small town vibes, where being different is tough.
✓ Queer rep: Heartfelt and real. Jason’s feelings for Timmy, the pain of rejection, and the hope he finds with Youngsoo—it’s all so emotional but not overdone.
✓ Plot twist: Gets “discovered” by Véus, a mysterious billionaire. Becomes the face of IMMORTAL. Greek mythology + modern fame = totally cool combo.
⭐My favorite part: The emotional growth. Jason doesn’t just chase fame—he questions it. That made it deep.
⭐ Sad moment: The ending crushed us. We had a group cry. Seriously.
What stayed with me: Jason’s courage and his mom starting The House of Ganymede. That felt powerful.
This book is perfect for teens who are navigating identity or just want a story that gets it. It mixes real life with myth in a way that feels totally new.
✔️ Would I recommend it? Absolutely. Especially if you want something emotional, stylish, and thoughtful—without being preachy.
Here’s my honest take on IMMORTAL: The House of Ganymede — but I’ll keep it organized:
✓ Main character: Jason = gorgeous, charming, trying hard to figure himself out. You root for him right away.
✓ Setting: Niagara Falls, small town vibes, where being different is tough.
✓ Queer rep: Heartfelt and real. Jason’s feelings for Timmy, the pain of rejection, and the hope he finds with Youngsoo—it’s all so emotional but not overdone.
✓ Plot twist: Gets “discovered” by Véus, a mysterious billionaire. Becomes the face of IMMORTAL. Greek mythology + modern fame = totally cool combo.
⭐My favorite part: The emotional growth. Jason doesn’t just chase fame—he questions it. That made it deep.
⭐ Sad moment: The ending crushed us. We had a group cry. Seriously.
What stayed with me: Jason’s courage and his mom starting The House of Ganymede. That felt powerful.
This book is perfect for teens who are navigating identity or just want a story that gets it. It mixes real life with myth in a way that feels totally new.
✔️ Would I recommend it? Absolutely. Especially if you want something emotional, stylish, and thoughtful—without being preachy.
July 12, 2025
I am Writing this just after midnight with headphones on and rain outside.
Dear Robert A. Karl,
I don’t usually write long reviews, but I had to say thank you for IMMORTAL. This book kind of broke me—in the best way.
Jason reminded me of myself. Trying to be “more” just to feel loved. Trying to find your place when everything feels off. The way he was rejected by Timmy was so raw, and I kept whispering “no no no” while reading it. I’ve felt that before.
When Véus entered the picture, I got this uneasy feeling… and you were right to make it a little mysterious. Beauty, power, desire—they’re never free.
I loved that Jason didn’t just fall into the fantasy. He questioned things. He tried to stay himself. But it still hurt watching him drift away from his mom, his roots. That felt real too.
The ending? I’m still crying. But also, I’m proud. Jason saved lives. He became more than what the world wanted from him. He was brave, and that gives me courage too.
Also, thank you for Youngsoo. Their relationship was so gentle and warm. A safe space. We need more of that.
This book is now part of me. Like a scar I want to keep. Thanks for writing it.
Sincerely,
Just another reader
Dear Robert A. Karl,
I don’t usually write long reviews, but I had to say thank you for IMMORTAL. This book kind of broke me—in the best way.
Jason reminded me of myself. Trying to be “more” just to feel loved. Trying to find your place when everything feels off. The way he was rejected by Timmy was so raw, and I kept whispering “no no no” while reading it. I’ve felt that before.
When Véus entered the picture, I got this uneasy feeling… and you were right to make it a little mysterious. Beauty, power, desire—they’re never free.
I loved that Jason didn’t just fall into the fantasy. He questioned things. He tried to stay himself. But it still hurt watching him drift away from his mom, his roots. That felt real too.
The ending? I’m still crying. But also, I’m proud. Jason saved lives. He became more than what the world wanted from him. He was brave, and that gives me courage too.
Also, thank you for Youngsoo. Their relationship was so gentle and warm. A safe space. We need more of that.
This book is now part of me. Like a scar I want to keep. Thanks for writing it.
Sincerely,
Just another reader
July 10, 2025
I don’t usually read books that make me cry, but this one did—and I don’t regret it. IMMORTAL tells the story of Jason, a beautiful boy who just wants to be loved and accepted. He lives in a small town, which can be harsh when you’re different. And Jason is very different. At first, he’s this shy but charming kid who’s trying to shine a little. He wants to be seen and understood. Jason gets discovered by a billionaire, gets renamed “Ganymede,” and becomes the face of a fancy product line. It seems like a dream, but it’s really a trap. Everyone wants something from him. Even when he finds someone who really sees him—Youngsoo—it’s still hard to trust happiness.
I finished this book at night during a thunderstorm, while curled up in bed. The end... shattered me. Jason dies a hero. And somehow, that made him feel more real to me. Like, he mattered. What I loved most was how the book didn’t try to be too fancy. It just told the truth. That being queer is hard. That being beautiful isn’t always lucky. And that sometimes, the bravest thing you can do is be yourself. This book made me feel seen. And I think it could help a lot of others feel the same.
I finished this book at night during a thunderstorm, while curled up in bed. The end... shattered me. Jason dies a hero. And somehow, that made him feel more real to me. Like, he mattered. What I loved most was how the book didn’t try to be too fancy. It just told the truth. That being queer is hard. That being beautiful isn’t always lucky. And that sometimes, the bravest thing you can do is be yourself. This book made me feel seen. And I think it could help a lot of others feel the same.
July 12, 2025
Have you ever read a book that feels like a play? IMMORTAL was like that for me. For an artist like me, Jason isn’t just a character—he’s a role you want to play, a heart you want to understand. Let me explain this as an "drama" though originally it's a novel. Act One? He’s the charming, hopeful teen with a crush on his best friend. He wants fame. Love. Magic.
Act Two? Enter Véus, mysterious and almost god-like. Jason’s swept away, renamed “Ganymede,” and becomes the face of something bigger than himself. Costumes, cameras, attention—like stepping onto Broadway. But it comes with strings. Power always does.
Act Three? The heartbreak. The growth. The tragic end that left me frozen like the final scene of Romeo and Juliet. Except Jason doesn’t just die—he transforms everything around him. His story echoes long after the curtain falls.
The Greek myth elements made it epic, but the real magic was in the emotions. Friendship, rejection, queerness, beauty, identity—it’s all here. And it sings.
This book should be adapted for stage someday. Until then, I’ll keep rereading it like it’s a script.
Act Two? Enter Véus, mysterious and almost god-like. Jason’s swept away, renamed “Ganymede,” and becomes the face of something bigger than himself. Costumes, cameras, attention—like stepping onto Broadway. But it comes with strings. Power always does.
Act Three? The heartbreak. The growth. The tragic end that left me frozen like the final scene of Romeo and Juliet. Except Jason doesn’t just die—he transforms everything around him. His story echoes long after the curtain falls.
The Greek myth elements made it epic, but the real magic was in the emotions. Friendship, rejection, queerness, beauty, identity—it’s all here. And it sings.
This book should be adapted for stage someday. Until then, I’ll keep rereading it like it’s a script.
July 13, 2025
Some books leave you heavy. Others leave you inspired. IMMORTAL: The House of Ganymede did both for me.
Jason is a teen figuring out who he is in a town that doesn’t always make it easy.
The cool part is how the story mixes modern life with Greek mythology. Jason becomes a brand icon—like literally turned into “Ganymede”—and it’s glamorous at first. But underneath the surface, there’s pressure, manipulation, and loneliness.
Still, I loved how the book never made Jason a victim. He made choices. He fell in love. He fought to be himself. And even when tragedy hit, it wasn’t the end of his impact.
My favorite moment was the LGBTQ+ Resource Center created in his memory. That gave me goosebumps. It reminded me that sometimes, even when life ends too soon, the love we leave behind continues.
If you’re looking for a story that’s emotional but also empowering, queer but universally human, and full of beauty and bravery—please read this. It’s short, powerful, and unforgettable.
Also, side note: It made me call my mom and tell her I love her. Any book that does that? A winner.
Jason is a teen figuring out who he is in a town that doesn’t always make it easy.
The cool part is how the story mixes modern life with Greek mythology. Jason becomes a brand icon—like literally turned into “Ganymede”—and it’s glamorous at first. But underneath the surface, there’s pressure, manipulation, and loneliness.
Still, I loved how the book never made Jason a victim. He made choices. He fell in love. He fought to be himself. And even when tragedy hit, it wasn’t the end of his impact.
My favorite moment was the LGBTQ+ Resource Center created in his memory. That gave me goosebumps. It reminded me that sometimes, even when life ends too soon, the love we leave behind continues.
If you’re looking for a story that’s emotional but also empowering, queer but universally human, and full of beauty and bravery—please read this. It’s short, powerful, and unforgettable.
Also, side note: It made me call my mom and tell her I love her. Any book that does that? A winner.
July 15, 2025
Reading IMMORTAL: The House of Ganymede felt like looking into someone’s heart. It’s about Jason, a boy from a small town, who’s beautiful and kind, but feels very alone. He wants to be loved, noticed, and accepted—for being gay, for being real. I connected with Jason’s wish to fit in and be seen.
The story starts like many teen stories—school, friendship, a little drama. But it quickly dives deeper. Jason is secretly in love with his best friend, and when he comes out, he gets badly hurt. That part stayed with me. It showed how brave you have to be just to be yourself.
Later, Jason is pulled into this glamorous world of fame and beauty when a billionaire wants him to be the face of a luxury brand. It’s exciting, but also scary. He’s renamed “Ganymede,” like in Greek myth. It made me think about how people use others for their own plans.
The writing is clear and honest. The ending is sad, but it made me cry in a good way. Jason’s story is full of pain, love, strength, and truth. It made me want to be a better friend, a better listener.
This book isn’t just about being queer. It’s about being human.
The story starts like many teen stories—school, friendship, a little drama. But it quickly dives deeper. Jason is secretly in love with his best friend, and when he comes out, he gets badly hurt. That part stayed with me. It showed how brave you have to be just to be yourself.
Later, Jason is pulled into this glamorous world of fame and beauty when a billionaire wants him to be the face of a luxury brand. It’s exciting, but also scary. He’s renamed “Ganymede,” like in Greek myth. It made me think about how people use others for their own plans.
The writing is clear and honest. The ending is sad, but it made me cry in a good way. Jason’s story is full of pain, love, strength, and truth. It made me want to be a better friend, a better listener.
This book isn’t just about being queer. It’s about being human.
September 16, 2025
This one’s a solid 3.5 stars, rounded up to 4 for me. It wasn’t perfect, but wow, it definitely stuck with me.
The mix of modern life and Greek mythology was such a cool idea. Jason stepping into the role of Ganymede felt glamorous at first but quickly turned heartbreaking, and I really wasn’t prepared for how hard some of those moments would land (even though the content warnings gave me a heads-up). I rooted for Jason the whole way, even when I wanted to yell at him for his choices. And the side characters — Timmy and the Kwon siblings — made the story feel richer. I kept wondering what happened to them after everything.
The writing style and the prose took me a while to warm up to, and I noticed some grammar issues here and there. But once I got past that, the narrative grabbed me and didn’t let go.
The ending was rough but powerful. I loved that it didn’t just stop at the tragedy but showed how Jason’s impact lived on — the LGBTQ+ Resource Center detail gave me actual goosebumps.
If you like modern mythology retellings that are emotional, queer, and not afraid to get heavy, this is one to pick up. Just be prepared: it’s a short read, but it packs a punch.
The mix of modern life and Greek mythology was such a cool idea. Jason stepping into the role of Ganymede felt glamorous at first but quickly turned heartbreaking, and I really wasn’t prepared for how hard some of those moments would land (even though the content warnings gave me a heads-up). I rooted for Jason the whole way, even when I wanted to yell at him for his choices. And the side characters — Timmy and the Kwon siblings — made the story feel richer. I kept wondering what happened to them after everything.
The writing style and the prose took me a while to warm up to, and I noticed some grammar issues here and there. But once I got past that, the narrative grabbed me and didn’t let go.
The ending was rough but powerful. I loved that it didn’t just stop at the tragedy but showed how Jason’s impact lived on — the LGBTQ+ Resource Center detail gave me actual goosebumps.
If you like modern mythology retellings that are emotional, queer, and not afraid to get heavy, this is one to pick up. Just be prepared: it’s a short read, but it packs a punch.
July 15, 2025
I picked up IMMORTAL: The House of Ganymede not knowing what to expect, and honestly, I was surprised by how emotional and real it felt. It’s the story of Jason, a gay teen living in a small town, who dreams of something bigger. The book started with normal high school things—friends, crushes, trying to fit in—but slowly became something deeper. When Jason comes out to his best friend and gets rejected, I felt that heartbreak like it was my own. That part was written so honestly, without making it dramatic just for the sake of it. The later part of the book is more interesting!!!
I liked that the book didn’t try to wrap everything up perfectly. It showed that life can be hard and painful, but that there’s still meaning and love, even after loss. Jason’s mother starting an LGBTQ+ center in his memory was a really moving way to end the story.
This book felt honest, powerful, and important. It made me think about how much we all just want to be seen for who we are.
I liked that the book didn’t try to wrap everything up perfectly. It showed that life can be hard and painful, but that there’s still meaning and love, even after loss. Jason’s mother starting an LGBTQ+ center in his memory was a really moving way to end the story.
This book felt honest, powerful, and important. It made me think about how much we all just want to be seen for who we are.
September 13, 2025
“Immortal: The House of Ganymede, by Robert A. Karl, is a modern-day tale inspired by the legendary Greek hero (Trigger warnings for suicide & murder.) Jason is a very good-looking junior in high school who is coming to terms with his sexuality. He is ready to acknowledge his attraction to his best friend, but his admission does not go well. But he forms a new friendship with Youngmi Kwon and her brother Youngsu. Soon enough, Youngsu declares his attraction for Jason, and they begin a romance. However, Youngsu is opinionated and controlling. Meanwhile, Zeus, a billionaire businessman, spots Jason while he is working at a server in his mother’s restaurant, and decides Jason is the perfect person to promote their new product, a substance that will promise to keep users looking young indefinitely. Zeus’s offer requires Jason to sign an NDA, cut ties with those in his life, and move to Greece. This is an interesting premise for a contemporary YA tale with dark themes.
October 24, 2025
Immortal: The House of Ganymede is a bold and captivating reimagining of the classic Greek myth, masterfully adapted to the complexities of modern queer identity. Robert A. Karl crafts a tale that feels both ancient and immediate, a collision of myth and modernity that resonates deeply with readers navigating self discovery in a world obsessed with image and validation.
Jason’s journey is poignant and haunting. His pursuit of fame, belonging, and love unfolds against a backdrop of pressure and allure the intoxicating promise of becoming “immortal” through visibility. Yet beneath the glamour lies the ache of sacrifice, echoing Ganymede’s own fate. The prose is sharp and cinematic, the characters pulsing with realism and heart.
Karl doesn’t just retell a myth he reframes it for a generation wrestling with identity, social expectation, and self worth. The result is both thought-provoking and emotionally charged, a queer coming-of-age tale that refuses to flinch from truth.
Jason’s journey is poignant and haunting. His pursuit of fame, belonging, and love unfolds against a backdrop of pressure and allure the intoxicating promise of becoming “immortal” through visibility. Yet beneath the glamour lies the ache of sacrifice, echoing Ganymede’s own fate. The prose is sharp and cinematic, the characters pulsing with realism and heart.
Karl doesn’t just retell a myth he reframes it for a generation wrestling with identity, social expectation, and self worth. The result is both thought-provoking and emotionally charged, a queer coming-of-age tale that refuses to flinch from truth.
January 12, 2026
A Novel that Works on Multiple Levels
Immortal: The House of Ganymede is a coming-of-age story about identity, longing, and the desire to be seen. Robert A. Karl’s fluid, engaging writing is a treat as he sharply observes the modern world of social media and influence while treating all the mythology with a light, flamboyant touch.
"Jason, you won't believe this. Zeus grants immortality to Ganymede!" "Wow, that's good! Isn't it?" "Except that Zeus's wife, Hera, becomes jealous of Ganymede, since Zeus pays more attention to him than to her." "Oh, a Greek soap opera!" Jason joked.
The characters feel lived-in, their choices shaped by vulnerability, pressure, and hope. I won’t spoil the plot, but - my word – expect a shocker or two!
Engagingly written and emotionally resonant, this novel works as a contemporary YA story, as a modern myth, and as a thoughtful exploration of how easily desire and validation can blur into control. It lingers well after the final page.
Immortal: The House of Ganymede is a coming-of-age story about identity, longing, and the desire to be seen. Robert A. Karl’s fluid, engaging writing is a treat as he sharply observes the modern world of social media and influence while treating all the mythology with a light, flamboyant touch.
"Jason, you won't believe this. Zeus grants immortality to Ganymede!" "Wow, that's good! Isn't it?" "Except that Zeus's wife, Hera, becomes jealous of Ganymede, since Zeus pays more attention to him than to her." "Oh, a Greek soap opera!" Jason joked.
The characters feel lived-in, their choices shaped by vulnerability, pressure, and hope. I won’t spoil the plot, but - my word – expect a shocker or two!
Engagingly written and emotionally resonant, this novel works as a contemporary YA story, as a modern myth, and as a thoughtful exploration of how easily desire and validation can blur into control. It lingers well after the final page.
July 10, 2025
I read IMMORTAL: The House of Ganymede on a quiet weekend, and I’ve been living in that world ever since. It’s a book that starts out feeling like a typical teen story but becomes much more powerful by the end.
The book shifts when Jason ends up meeting a billionaire who wants to make him the face of a luxury brand. At first, it seems like Jason is getting everything he ever wanted.
The ending is sad. Jason becomes something bigger than himself. His story affects the people around him, and even though he dies, his memory inspires change. I really liked that his mom built a center to help other LGBTQ+ kids.
This book has love, pain, beauty, and truth all wrapped together. It’s simple to read, but it leaves you thinking about a lot of important stuff—like identity, self-worth, and what it really means to be seen.
The book shifts when Jason ends up meeting a billionaire who wants to make him the face of a luxury brand. At first, it seems like Jason is getting everything he ever wanted.
The ending is sad. Jason becomes something bigger than himself. His story affects the people around him, and even though he dies, his memory inspires change. I really liked that his mom built a center to help other LGBTQ+ kids.
This book has love, pain, beauty, and truth all wrapped together. It’s simple to read, but it leaves you thinking about a lot of important stuff—like identity, self-worth, and what it really means to be seen.
August 21, 2025
The House of Ganymede by Robert A. Karl, a powerful blend of mythology and modern life. The novel follows Jason, a gay teen navigating love, rejection, and ambition while being pulled into the dazzling world of ZEUS Universal Group. His chance to become the face of a luxury brand called IMMORTAL cleverly echoes the myth of Ganymede, showing how beauty and fame can both uplift and endanger.
What impressed me most was the way the book balances everyday teenage struggles with bigger themes of identity, social pressure, and the price of success. The mythological element feels fresh, and Jason’s relationships—both heartbreaking and hopeful—come across as authentic.
It’s moving, sometimes heavy, but ultimately rewarding. A heartfelt YA novel about self-discovery, love, and the risks of being truly seen.
What impressed me most was the way the book balances everyday teenage struggles with bigger themes of identity, social pressure, and the price of success. The mythological element feels fresh, and Jason’s relationships—both heartbreaking and hopeful—come across as authentic.
It’s moving, sometimes heavy, but ultimately rewarding. A heartfelt YA novel about self-discovery, love, and the risks of being truly seen.
September 2, 2025
IMMORTAL: The House of Ganymede
I read through this very carefully and took my time, because I did not want it to end. It Is a clever mix of modern teen life with Green mythology. It is well written and unfolds excellently as you continue through.
There is a lot of emotion in this book, it’s a constant rollercoaster and I really felt like I was part of the world while reading it. I love the characters and it is very easy to get invested into them and the outcome for them I the story.
It has a very hard ending which I obviously will not spoil, but personally I am a fan of that,
This is a fantastic coming of age story and I highly recommend giving it a try as I did.
The only downside I would say is that the cover is not fantastic for the quality of the writing in my personal opinion. However that is a minor flaw.
I read through this very carefully and took my time, because I did not want it to end. It Is a clever mix of modern teen life with Green mythology. It is well written and unfolds excellently as you continue through.
There is a lot of emotion in this book, it’s a constant rollercoaster and I really felt like I was part of the world while reading it. I love the characters and it is very easy to get invested into them and the outcome for them I the story.
It has a very hard ending which I obviously will not spoil, but personally I am a fan of that,
This is a fantastic coming of age story and I highly recommend giving it a try as I did.
The only downside I would say is that the cover is not fantastic for the quality of the writing in my personal opinion. However that is a minor flaw.
October 2, 2025
I really appreciate the way this book balances scope and intimacy. The mythological layers are handled with care, weaving history and imagination into something that feels both fresh and deeply rooted. The pacing kept me invested, and the characters carried weight in a way that made their choices linger after I put the book down.
What stood out most was the atmosphere. The writing manages to be evocative without slowing the momentum of the story, and that is no small feat. There is a confidence in the voice that makes you trust where the story is leading, even when the path feels unexpected.
This is clearly a work of passion and intention. It reminded me why I enjoy reading authors who are willing to take risks and dig deeper into myth and identity. I look forward to seeing what you do next.
What stood out most was the atmosphere. The writing manages to be evocative without slowing the momentum of the story, and that is no small feat. There is a confidence in the voice that makes you trust where the story is leading, even when the path feels unexpected.
This is clearly a work of passion and intention. It reminded me why I enjoy reading authors who are willing to take risks and dig deeper into myth and identity. I look forward to seeing what you do next.
June 11, 2025
ROBERT I DID NOT SEE THAT COMING!!!
Robert has such a unique writing style, in that aside from the MC, he also gives us snippets of what’s going on for the side characters. It all comes together in the end, but he leaves breadcrumbs throughout, which I always enjoy!
This is the story of Jason, a gorgeous young man living in Niagara Falls who had always had a pretty ordinary life. Things change for him when he meets two people: the first being Youngsoo, a new student from Korea who takes an immediate interest in Jason. The next is Zeus, an international business mogul and billionaire. Both men see Jason’s incredible beauty, and they both want him: Ypungsoo as his boyfriend, and Zeus as the face of his new men’s beauty line: IMMORTAL.
Jason’s entire life changes, but not just because of these men. It’s also because he discovers himself and what he’s worth. He’s proud to be beautiful, gay, and an absolute rising star.
Based on the Greek myth of Ganymede, this story has curve balls coming right and left, and I did not expect that ending!!
Thank you so much to Robert for sharing this story with me!
Robert has such a unique writing style, in that aside from the MC, he also gives us snippets of what’s going on for the side characters. It all comes together in the end, but he leaves breadcrumbs throughout, which I always enjoy!
This is the story of Jason, a gorgeous young man living in Niagara Falls who had always had a pretty ordinary life. Things change for him when he meets two people: the first being Youngsoo, a new student from Korea who takes an immediate interest in Jason. The next is Zeus, an international business mogul and billionaire. Both men see Jason’s incredible beauty, and they both want him: Ypungsoo as his boyfriend, and Zeus as the face of his new men’s beauty line: IMMORTAL.
Jason’s entire life changes, but not just because of these men. It’s also because he discovers himself and what he’s worth. He’s proud to be beautiful, gay, and an absolute rising star.
Based on the Greek myth of Ganymede, this story has curve balls coming right and left, and I did not expect that ending!!
Thank you so much to Robert for sharing this story with me!
July 14, 2025
IMMORTAL: The House of Ganymede is not a long book, but it leaves a big impact. The story follows Jason, a good-looking teen in Niagara who is figuring out his identity as a gay person. What happens to Jason is both exciting and tragic. One moment he’s just a regular student, and the next he’s being turned into a brand icon by this mysterious CEO. The Greek mythology twist was pretty cool, especially how it tied into the name “Ganymede.” I didn’t expect the story to take the turns it did, especially the ending. The writing is clear and not too complicated, which I appreciated. The emotional parts hit hard, but they didn’t feel fake or overdone. My favorite part was how Jason kept trying to stay connected to his real self, even when everything around him was trying to change him.
October 3, 2025
IMMORTAL: The House of Ganymede is a powerful reimagining of myth through a modern queer lens. Jason’s journey feels raw and real—torn between friendship, first love, and the lure of fame, while struggling to be true to himself.
The mix of high-school drama, Greek myth, and contemporary issues is gripping, but what really makes it stand out is the honesty. The characters are flawed, vulnerable, and deeply human, and the story doesn’t shy away from showing the cost of both silence and authenticity.
It’s a bold, heartfelt novel that lingers long after the last page. A must-read for anyone who loves YA fiction with depth, emotion, and courage.
The mix of high-school drama, Greek myth, and contemporary issues is gripping, but what really makes it stand out is the honesty. The characters are flawed, vulnerable, and deeply human, and the story doesn’t shy away from showing the cost of both silence and authenticity.
It’s a bold, heartfelt novel that lingers long after the last page. A must-read for anyone who loves YA fiction with depth, emotion, and courage.
September 2, 2025
IMMORTAL: The House of Ganymede (Robert Karl) revolves around Jason Masters and is a novel with strong character development. Jason’s internal conflicts and search for identity are portrayed effectively. The story thoughtfully explores themes of love, self-discovery, societal pressures, and the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ youth. It is a dramatic, poignant, and beautifully crafted work centered on growth, self-acceptance, and the human capacity for love, hope, and resilience. I recommend it to readers of the genre.
June 29, 2025
The writing is just terrible. In a way I hope this was written by AI because I dispare to think of a human coming up with this prose. It is clunky, hard to parse, and makes one a little worse for having read it.
August 8, 2025
Inspired by Greek mythology, this story is refreshingly written and very poignant. I'm glad to have found it, and I think I'll reread it again one day. Although it is meant for young adults, I enjoyed it thoroughly as an adult. A creative and evocative read. Great story for anyone.
October 27, 2025
I liked the mix of modern life and Greek mythology. It was a cool idea to read it. What makes this book truly special is its honest and heartfelt portrayal of terms navigating identity. If you like modern mythology retellings that are emotional this is a book to read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews