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Goddesses of the Underworld #2
Styx - The River
Not yet published
Expected 1 Sep 26Win a free print copy of this book!
11 days and 07:37:16
20 copies available
U.S. only
Beginning a generation before
Hekate
,
Styx
sings the story of the goddess of the underworld river that bears her name…
The firstborn child of Titans, Styx is revered as the first of her kind – until she is eclipsed and forgotten amid her scores of siblings, the Oceanids and the Potamoi.
Coming of age in a world simmering with paranoia and unspoken fear of Kronos, the volatile and unchecked god-king, Styx learns to conceal the rage ignited by her growing disillusionment with her parents and her vain and unkind siblings. Instead, she finds solace and sisterhood in her cousin, Asteria. Together, they train in the arts of creation and magic. And as they seek to learn their divine purpose and their place within the Titanomachy, they discover both the joy sparked by true love and the fierce resilience birthed from motherhood.
In this lyrical and heartrending tale of sisterhood, identity, love, and war, Styx must carve her own path to womanhood – and ultimately, godhood.
The firstborn child of Titans, Styx is revered as the first of her kind – until she is eclipsed and forgotten amid her scores of siblings, the Oceanids and the Potamoi.
Coming of age in a world simmering with paranoia and unspoken fear of Kronos, the volatile and unchecked god-king, Styx learns to conceal the rage ignited by her growing disillusionment with her parents and her vain and unkind siblings. Instead, she finds solace and sisterhood in her cousin, Asteria. Together, they train in the arts of creation and magic. And as they seek to learn their divine purpose and their place within the Titanomachy, they discover both the joy sparked by true love and the fierce resilience birthed from motherhood.
In this lyrical and heartrending tale of sisterhood, identity, love, and war, Styx must carve her own path to womanhood – and ultimately, godhood.
Kindle Edition
Expected publication September 17, 2026
About the author
Nikita Gill
28 books6,151 followersNikita Gill is a Kashmiri Sikh writer born in Belfast, Northern Ireland and brought up in Gurugram, Haryana in India. In her mid twenties, she immigrated to the South of England and worked as a carer for many years. She enjoys creating paintings, poems, stories, photos, illustrations and other soft, positive things. Her work has appeared in Literary Orphans, Agave Magazine, Gravel Literary Journal, Monkeybicycle, Foliate Oak, MusePiePress, Dying Dahlia Review, The Rising Phoenix Review, Eunoia Review, Corvus Review, After The Pause and elsewhere.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
Want to Read
December 5, 2025Brother this better be a good book. I was captured by the first book.
Want to Read
June 5, 2026With how amazing Hekate was, I can't wait for this one.
July 31, 2026
This digital ARC was graciously granted to me by NetGalley and Little Brown Books for Young Readers; all opinions are my own.
I would give this book ten stars if I could! It is written in narrative verse, which pays such powerful tribute to the Greek myths and storytelling of the ancient world. Yet, it is an easy, all-consuming read where I found myself immersed in the story from the beginning. Told from
both Asteria and Styx’s POV, we get the complete background to the Titan world and how it falls to Zeus. If you’re like me, and get confused by the Titan world, this book helped me understand it so much more. I will definitely be buying a copy for my classroom! I think my students will love this even more than Circe!
I would give this book ten stars if I could! It is written in narrative verse, which pays such powerful tribute to the Greek myths and storytelling of the ancient world. Yet, it is an easy, all-consuming read where I found myself immersed in the story from the beginning. Told from
both Asteria and Styx’s POV, we get the complete background to the Titan world and how it falls to Zeus. If you’re like me, and get confused by the Titan world, this book helped me understand it so much more. I will definitely be buying a copy for my classroom! I think my students will love this even more than Circe!
July 30, 2026
Styx by Nikita Gill is a breathtaking novel-in-verse that transforms one of Greek mythology’s most overlooked goddesses into a powerful, unforgettable heroine. Gill’s writing is as poetic as ever, weaving together themes of sisterhood, identity, rage, love, motherhood, and resilience into a story that feels both ancient and deeply relevant.
I loved how Styx’s journey was about more than mythology, it was about finding your voice in a world determined to diminish it. The relationship between Styx and Asteria adds so much heart to the story, and every page is infused with emotion and quiet strength. Gill has a remarkable ability to make gods and goddesses feel profoundly human while never losing the grandeur of myth.
The novel-in-verse format flows beautifully, making this a quick yet deeply immersive read. Every poem feels intentional, carrying emotional weight without ever becoming overwhelming. Fans of Hekate will appreciate the connections between the books, but Styx also stands confidently on its own as a stunning retelling.
If you love feminist mythology, lyrical prose, and stories that celebrate the strength found in vulnerability, Styx is an absolute must-read. Nikita Gill continues to prove why she is one of the most compelling voices in mythological retellings today, and I cannot wait to see where this series goes next.
I loved how Styx’s journey was about more than mythology, it was about finding your voice in a world determined to diminish it. The relationship between Styx and Asteria adds so much heart to the story, and every page is infused with emotion and quiet strength. Gill has a remarkable ability to make gods and goddesses feel profoundly human while never losing the grandeur of myth.
The novel-in-verse format flows beautifully, making this a quick yet deeply immersive read. Every poem feels intentional, carrying emotional weight without ever becoming overwhelming. Fans of Hekate will appreciate the connections between the books, but Styx also stands confidently on its own as a stunning retelling.
If you love feminist mythology, lyrical prose, and stories that celebrate the strength found in vulnerability, Styx is an absolute must-read. Nikita Gill continues to prove why she is one of the most compelling voices in mythological retellings today, and I cannot wait to see where this series goes next.
July 4, 2026
First off, thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC of Styx! After reading Hekate, this was a dream to be able to immediately dive into.
Overall, this book is a beautiful tale of friendship. Styx is a great character, is sure of herself, has a takes-no-crap attitude, and a deep well of love for her family and her friend Asteria. The writing, as with Hekate, was lyrical and beautiful, and kept the plot moving.
If I had but one critique, I do disagree with the need to make this a dual perspective book. I think it pulled a lot of the focus away from Styx’s emotional journey. I felt both characters spoke in the same voice, and so it was hard to distinguish who was who, and there were times I forgot whose head I was in mid-reading.
The ending was superb!! The fate of the titans was devastating and something you don’t see much of in modern fiction. I liked that this perspective of the war was explored so well.
In all, I’d recommend Styx to anyone who loves Greek mythology, and any lovers of Natalie Haynes or Jennifer Saint. I can’t wait to read the next installment, Nyx!
Overall, this book is a beautiful tale of friendship. Styx is a great character, is sure of herself, has a takes-no-crap attitude, and a deep well of love for her family and her friend Asteria. The writing, as with Hekate, was lyrical and beautiful, and kept the plot moving.
If I had but one critique, I do disagree with the need to make this a dual perspective book. I think it pulled a lot of the focus away from Styx’s emotional journey. I felt both characters spoke in the same voice, and so it was hard to distinguish who was who, and there were times I forgot whose head I was in mid-reading.
The ending was superb!! The fate of the titans was devastating and something you don’t see much of in modern fiction. I liked that this perspective of the war was explored so well.
In all, I’d recommend Styx to anyone who loves Greek mythology, and any lovers of Natalie Haynes or Jennifer Saint. I can’t wait to read the next installment, Nyx!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Rating: 4.25⭐️
This book is honestly so spellbinding. I’ve read plenty of Greek mythology retellings, but I can’t remember ever reading one where Styx takes center stage, and that alone made this feel so fresh. Getting to see the world through her eyes, learning who she is beyond the river and the oath, was fascinating.
What makes it even more interesting is that this story actually takes place before Hekate. It fills in so many pieces of the puzzle, like the Olympian war and why Hekate’s parents were forced to run, which eventually leads to the events at the beginning of book one.
Not only do we get Styx’s perspective, but we also get to see Asteria’s side of the story in this one. Her and Perses’s story absolutely broke my heart.
The writing is just as poetic and lyrical as it was in Hekate. It has that dreamy, almost hypnotic atmosphere. The plot also flows smoothly, which made it incredibly easy to sink into.
But the real highlight for me was Styx herself. She is furious, and rightfully so. She was born into a world where women are treated as possessions, where their worth is measured by the men connected to them, and where they’re expected to accept whatever place society assigns to them. Styx refuses to accept that and wants more because she knows she deserves more, and that’s what made her so compelling. She’s angry, determined, stubborn, compassionate, protective, and layered in ways that made me root for her from beginning to end. Every decision she makes feels driven by love, loyalty, and an unwavering desire to fight for herself and her sisters.
And then… THAT FINAL PAGE. The reveal that Nyx is going to be the focus of the third book had me practically levitating out of my chair. I’M SOOOO IN. Long live the Goddesses of the Underworld.
════════════════════════
Thank you to Little Brown and NetGalley for the ARC!
This book is honestly so spellbinding. I’ve read plenty of Greek mythology retellings, but I can’t remember ever reading one where Styx takes center stage, and that alone made this feel so fresh. Getting to see the world through her eyes, learning who she is beyond the river and the oath, was fascinating.
What makes it even more interesting is that this story actually takes place before Hekate. It fills in so many pieces of the puzzle, like the Olympian war and why Hekate’s parents were forced to run, which eventually leads to the events at the beginning of book one.
Not only do we get Styx’s perspective, but we also get to see Asteria’s side of the story in this one. Her and Perses’s story absolutely broke my heart.
The writing is just as poetic and lyrical as it was in Hekate. It has that dreamy, almost hypnotic atmosphere. The plot also flows smoothly, which made it incredibly easy to sink into.
But the real highlight for me was Styx herself. She is furious, and rightfully so. She was born into a world where women are treated as possessions, where their worth is measured by the men connected to them, and where they’re expected to accept whatever place society assigns to them. Styx refuses to accept that and wants more because she knows she deserves more, and that’s what made her so compelling. She’s angry, determined, stubborn, compassionate, protective, and layered in ways that made me root for her from beginning to end. Every decision she makes feels driven by love, loyalty, and an unwavering desire to fight for herself and her sisters.
And then… THAT FINAL PAGE. The reveal that Nyx is going to be the focus of the third book had me practically levitating out of my chair. I’M SOOOO IN. Long live the Goddesses of the Underworld.
════════════════════════
Thank you to Little Brown and NetGalley for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you very much to the author, publisher, and to NetGalley for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Styx is a retelling of the eponymous goddess’s myth. Told in dual POV between Styx and Asteria, it traces Styx’s formative time from when she was born to when she becomes a goddess.
I was very excited to read this book when I first saw it; Styx is one of the least acknowledged goddesses, and many of the deities pre-Olympus often get left behind. Author Nikita Gill has undoubtedly done her research in preparation for this, and conveys the story in a manner that is accessible, flows well, and centres the women in an unquestionably revolutionary manner.
My criticisms of this book are twofold: the first is that I felt the poetry lacked rhythm or melody. When reading verse, I often count a beat on a nearby surface and try to recite it aloud to myself as one would have expected from the epics of the time. In this case, I found no tangible rhythm to follow. While writing extensively in meter is difficult, I nevertheless wanted it to be more lyrical given the form.
My second critique is more personal. As an older reader, I found some of the writing a little too simplified and at times repetitive. While younger readers may consider this simplicity an improvement to their reading experience, I can’t help but wonder if we shouldn’t be challenging them with broader vocabularies and less obvious writing to challenge them to step beyond their comfort zone.
Overall, I think this book will be well-liked by younger readers with an interest in Greek mythology and readers looking for a light, digestible form of the story.
Styx is a retelling of the eponymous goddess’s myth. Told in dual POV between Styx and Asteria, it traces Styx’s formative time from when she was born to when she becomes a goddess.
I was very excited to read this book when I first saw it; Styx is one of the least acknowledged goddesses, and many of the deities pre-Olympus often get left behind. Author Nikita Gill has undoubtedly done her research in preparation for this, and conveys the story in a manner that is accessible, flows well, and centres the women in an unquestionably revolutionary manner.
My criticisms of this book are twofold: the first is that I felt the poetry lacked rhythm or melody. When reading verse, I often count a beat on a nearby surface and try to recite it aloud to myself as one would have expected from the epics of the time. In this case, I found no tangible rhythm to follow. While writing extensively in meter is difficult, I nevertheless wanted it to be more lyrical given the form.
My second critique is more personal. As an older reader, I found some of the writing a little too simplified and at times repetitive. While younger readers may consider this simplicity an improvement to their reading experience, I can’t help but wonder if we shouldn’t be challenging them with broader vocabularies and less obvious writing to challenge them to step beyond their comfort zone.
Overall, I think this book will be well-liked by younger readers with an interest in Greek mythology and readers looking for a light, digestible form of the story.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I was drawn to this because I love Greek mythology retellings. Unfortunately, though, this is not for me.
Nikita Gill's book follows the friendship of Asteria and Styx as they find their voices as Titanides. Both want to be more than mere pawns to their fathers, brothers, and husbands. In the backdrop is Zeus's rise to power, as he plans to overthrow Kronos. Deep throughout the book is the theme of patriarchy--as Asteria and Styx do not fit in a world made for the male gods, by the male gods--and the underlying question of how both Titanides can find their own meaningful place.
While the idea behind this book is intriguing, the execution is not my cup of tea. There's no reason for this to be written in poetic verse. It does not aid the narrative whatsoever. The enjambment used does not make any difference to each poem's meaning, does not bring better clarity or surprise to the individual lines; it doesn't matter if the poem is stichic, stanzaic, or written in prose; none of the stylistic choices changes the story or gives a deeper meaning to any moment. Writing this in poetic form is, in other words, completely arbitrary. This is a straightforward narrative chopped into lines that merely look like poetry, without using any poetic techniques.
The concept of this book is interesting enough. I only wish the writing could have done it justice.
Regardless, thank you, NetGalley and Little, Brown Books, for giving me the chance to read this early.
Nikita Gill's book follows the friendship of Asteria and Styx as they find their voices as Titanides. Both want to be more than mere pawns to their fathers, brothers, and husbands. In the backdrop is Zeus's rise to power, as he plans to overthrow Kronos. Deep throughout the book is the theme of patriarchy--as Asteria and Styx do not fit in a world made for the male gods, by the male gods--and the underlying question of how both Titanides can find their own meaningful place.
While the idea behind this book is intriguing, the execution is not my cup of tea. There's no reason for this to be written in poetic verse. It does not aid the narrative whatsoever. The enjambment used does not make any difference to each poem's meaning, does not bring better clarity or surprise to the individual lines; it doesn't matter if the poem is stichic, stanzaic, or written in prose; none of the stylistic choices changes the story or gives a deeper meaning to any moment. Writing this in poetic form is, in other words, completely arbitrary. This is a straightforward narrative chopped into lines that merely look like poetry, without using any poetic techniques.
The concept of this book is interesting enough. I only wish the writing could have done it justice.
Regardless, thank you, NetGalley and Little, Brown Books, for giving me the chance to read this early.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and Nikita Gill for the eARC in exchange for my honest review.
I absolutely devoured this book! If you say “mythology retelling,” I’m already sold.
Styx retells the Titan War through Styx’s perspective, with Asteria’s POV adding emotional depth and enriching both the world and its characters. The lyrical, atmospheric writing creates a dreamlike quality that perfectly suits the mythological setting, though the prose style may not be for everyone.
Styx is a fantastic protagonist. She is fierce, compassionate, and determined to defy the expectations placed on her. Her friendship with Asteria is the heart of the novel, grounding the epic conflict in a deeply personal story. I was initially surprised by the dual POV, but it beautifully highlights their bond and lets us see Styx through Asteria’s eyes.
I also loved seeing Greek mythology from the Titans’ perspective. Watching the rise of Zeus, the fall of Kronos, and the events leading into Hekate offered a refreshing change from the many retellings focused on the Olympians.
Overall, Styx is a beautiful, emotional addition to Greek mythology retellings. With its unforgettable (and tragic) heroine, strong themes of friendship and family, and fresh perspective, it’s an easy recommendation for fans of character-driven mythology.
I can’t wait to see where the series goes next with Nyx. I have a feeling she’ll end up being my favourite!
I absolutely devoured this book! If you say “mythology retelling,” I’m already sold.
Styx retells the Titan War through Styx’s perspective, with Asteria’s POV adding emotional depth and enriching both the world and its characters. The lyrical, atmospheric writing creates a dreamlike quality that perfectly suits the mythological setting, though the prose style may not be for everyone.
Styx is a fantastic protagonist. She is fierce, compassionate, and determined to defy the expectations placed on her. Her friendship with Asteria is the heart of the novel, grounding the epic conflict in a deeply personal story. I was initially surprised by the dual POV, but it beautifully highlights their bond and lets us see Styx through Asteria’s eyes.
I also loved seeing Greek mythology from the Titans’ perspective. Watching the rise of Zeus, the fall of Kronos, and the events leading into Hekate offered a refreshing change from the many retellings focused on the Olympians.
Overall, Styx is a beautiful, emotional addition to Greek mythology retellings. With its unforgettable (and tragic) heroine, strong themes of friendship and family, and fresh perspective, it’s an easy recommendation for fans of character-driven mythology.
I can’t wait to see where the series goes next with Nyx. I have a feeling she’ll end up being my favourite!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I absolutely loved this story. As a chronic reader of Greek myth retellings I think this was so fresh because rarely do we get a story about the Titans before the Olympians took control. The descriptions of the powers & individual features of the Titans was so well done it came to life. I love a story of feminine rage & disobedience; Styx was just that. Her & Asterias devotion was a beautiful story of sisterhood, even if it started with a fist fight in a cave! (I laughed out loud at this scene) The way they honed & protected there creation magic & sister Metis together was so reminiscent of my own girlhood. Making a magic potion & promises of secrecy with my best friend, convinced she is the ONLY one who could ever possibly understand me. I felt a visceral relief when both Asteria & Styx were able to marry husbands who were as much kind as they were warriors. The loneliness Styx felt from her parents & siblings was palpable. She so deserved the love she received from Asteria, Pallas & their children. She was faced with a difficult choice to join the Olypians & earn safety for her children & Goddesshood for herself. In the end she ensured her childrens safety, only to pay for her speaking up to Zeus about the fate of the other female titans, by losing them. Deemed the Goddess of Hate she finds herself in the Underworld, assuming the care of Hekate, Asterias only Daughter.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I have been looking forward to the next book in the series since completing Hekate: the Witch with its unusual novel-in-verse style. I enjoyed this book just as much and, I dare say, that I would still have enjoyed Styx even if I had not previously read Hekate. This book does take place before Hekate, but I wouldn't call it a prequel. There is a dual point of narration, giving us the voice of Styx as well as her closest friend and Hekate's mother, Asteria. This came with the benefit of seeing events as Styx saw them as well as getting a slightly outside view from someone close to Styx. It was interesting to see how this character developed since even though many who are familiar with mythology know of the river, but the goddess that gave it its name is far less familiar. The timeline in the cusp between the rule of Chronos and the Titans and the rule of Zeus and the Olympians added extra interest but Styx and her evolution is the heart of the story and made it an interesting story. Now, I am even more excited to continue with Nyx: The Night.
I received access to this eARC thru NetGalley (for which I want to thank NetGalley and the publisher, Little, Brown Books for Young Readers) for an honest review. The opinion expressed here is my own.
I received access to this eARC thru NetGalley (for which I want to thank NetGalley and the publisher, Little, Brown Books for Young Readers) for an honest review. The opinion expressed here is my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to Little, Brown Books for Young Readers and NetGalley for an e-arc copy!!
Styx was a beautiful reimaging/retelling of the Greek river goddess whose waters carry the souls of the dead to the Underworld and guide them on where the go and the Titan Goddess of prophetic dreams and falling stars. This book focuses more on Styx's origin story, her childhood, and adolescence and not so much as her duties being the river goddess of the dead. It also focuses on Asteria's friendship with Styx, her powers, and some of her life. It's a prequel to Hekate - as the ending of this story ties heavily into Hekate.
Nikita Gill's prose and poetry never fail to impress, and they don't fail here either. The prose was so lovely and vivid, it was easy to imagine everything going on.
I'm not really familiar with the original origin stories of the Greek gods and goddesses at all, so I can't attest for if this is 100% faithful to Styx's or Asteria's stories or if this one is more so a "feminist" retelling. Either way, the way this story was told and spun is 100% worth a read. Especially if you like Greek mythology (around the Titanides and goddesses) or flowery, lyrical prose.
Styx was a beautiful reimaging/retelling of the Greek river goddess whose waters carry the souls of the dead to the Underworld and guide them on where the go and the Titan Goddess of prophetic dreams and falling stars. This book focuses more on Styx's origin story, her childhood, and adolescence and not so much as her duties being the river goddess of the dead. It also focuses on Asteria's friendship with Styx, her powers, and some of her life. It's a prequel to Hekate - as the ending of this story ties heavily into Hekate.
Nikita Gill's prose and poetry never fail to impress, and they don't fail here either. The prose was so lovely and vivid, it was easy to imagine everything going on.
I'm not really familiar with the original origin stories of the Greek gods and goddesses at all, so I can't attest for if this is 100% faithful to Styx's or Asteria's stories or if this one is more so a "feminist" retelling. Either way, the way this story was told and spun is 100% worth a read. Especially if you like Greek mythology (around the Titanides and goddesses) or flowery, lyrical prose.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
⭐⭐⭐⭐.7 - Prime! (my goodman!)
Styx - The River is a standalone prequel of sorts to Hekate - The Witch, but they can be read out of order. Styx is a retelling in poem form of how the eponymous water nymph became the river of the Underworld and the Goddess of Hatred. But at the heart of the story is the friendship of Styx and her cousin, Asteria. These two young women are not merely asking, but begging to have a place and value in the world that ultimately comes at a high cost. It's a quick read, but oooh it packed a powerful punch.
I really enjoyed that this series rehabilitates and fleshes out the Titans, which classical mythology usually paints as “the bad guys”. I also liked how Gill maintains and leans into the wacky, enigmatic lifestyles and powers that fascinated me about Greek gods and goddesses. Your kids are born and grown within a handful of years? Yes! Your dad can just eat you and keep you imprisoned, fully grown, in his stomach? Sure, of course!
I highly recommend Styx - The River for any and all lovers of classical mythology, and certainly for the uninitiated.
Thanks to Little Brown for the eARC via NetGalley.
Styx - The River is a standalone prequel of sorts to Hekate - The Witch, but they can be read out of order. Styx is a retelling in poem form of how the eponymous water nymph became the river of the Underworld and the Goddess of Hatred. But at the heart of the story is the friendship of Styx and her cousin, Asteria. These two young women are not merely asking, but begging to have a place and value in the world that ultimately comes at a high cost. It's a quick read, but oooh it packed a powerful punch.
I really enjoyed that this series rehabilitates and fleshes out the Titans, which classical mythology usually paints as “the bad guys”. I also liked how Gill maintains and leans into the wacky, enigmatic lifestyles and powers that fascinated me about Greek gods and goddesses. Your kids are born and grown within a handful of years? Yes! Your dad can just eat you and keep you imprisoned, fully grown, in his stomach? Sure, of course!
I highly recommend Styx - The River for any and all lovers of classical mythology, and certainly for the uninitiated.
Thanks to Little Brown for the eARC via NetGalley.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
ARC was provided by NetGalley and Little Brown Books in exchange for an honest review.
Styx is a coming of age story set a generation before the first book in this series, Hekate, and follows Styx on her journey from river nymph to ultimately the goddess of the underworld river that bears her name. While I definitely loved the first book more, Styx was still a solid follow-up and so far I'm really enjoying this series. This one was a little different with the alternating POV's between Styx and Asteria, and at times I thought that took away somewhat from Styx's story. I did wish there was a little more with Styx and Pallas, which is ironically the same gripe I had with Hekate and Thanatos in Hekate's book. The strongest part of this story is the friendship between Styx and Asteria and that is truly the heart of the whole book. However, without giving too much away, I wish there was more of a resolution between Asteria and Perses and Styx and Asteria, but I do know that some things are addressed in Hekate, I just need to reread them to refresh my memory a bit. Overall, I would definitely recommend this book and this series. I can't wait for the next one!
Styx is a coming of age story set a generation before the first book in this series, Hekate, and follows Styx on her journey from river nymph to ultimately the goddess of the underworld river that bears her name. While I definitely loved the first book more, Styx was still a solid follow-up and so far I'm really enjoying this series. This one was a little different with the alternating POV's between Styx and Asteria, and at times I thought that took away somewhat from Styx's story. I did wish there was a little more with Styx and Pallas, which is ironically the same gripe I had with Hekate and Thanatos in Hekate's book. The strongest part of this story is the friendship between Styx and Asteria and that is truly the heart of the whole book. However, without giving too much away, I wish there was more of a resolution between Asteria and Perses and Styx and Asteria, but I do know that some things are addressed in Hekate, I just need to reread them to refresh my memory a bit. Overall, I would definitely recommend this book and this series. I can't wait for the next one!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Styx completely scratched my love-of-all-things-Greek-mythology itch. Nikita Gill takes the goddess of the underworld river—the firstborn Titan, revered as first of her kind and then eclipsed and forgotten among all her Oceanid and Potamoi siblings—and finally gives her a voice, set a generation before Hekate. I was so here for it. Watching Styx come of age in a world simmering with fear of Kronos, learning to hide her rage as she grows disillusioned with her vain, unkind family, hit hard.
The heart of the book is her sisterhood with her cousin Asteria—training in creation and magic together, trying to figure out their purpose as the Titanomachy looms—and it's just lovely. Gill weaves in first love, motherhood, and this fierce, hard-won resilience, all in her signature gorgeous, poetic prose. It's feminist mythology done exactly the way I love it: lyrical, emotional, and centered on a woman history overlooked. If you love mythology retellings, put this on your list immediately. Absolutely wonderful.
Poetic, feminist, and gorgeous. 5 stars.
Styx completely scratched my love-of-all-things-Greek-mythology itch. Nikita Gill takes the goddess of the underworld river—the firstborn Titan, revered as first of her kind and then eclipsed and forgotten among all her Oceanid and Potamoi siblings—and finally gives her a voice, set a generation before Hekate. I was so here for it. Watching Styx come of age in a world simmering with fear of Kronos, learning to hide her rage as she grows disillusioned with her vain, unkind family, hit hard.
The heart of the book is her sisterhood with her cousin Asteria—training in creation and magic together, trying to figure out their purpose as the Titanomachy looms—and it's just lovely. Gill weaves in first love, motherhood, and this fierce, hard-won resilience, all in her signature gorgeous, poetic prose. It's feminist mythology done exactly the way I love it: lyrical, emotional, and centered on a woman history overlooked. If you love mythology retellings, put this on your list immediately. Absolutely wonderful.
Poetic, feminist, and gorgeous. 5 stars.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
3⭐️
Thank you very much to NetGalley for providing this ARC in exchange for my honest review!
Syx - The River follows the firstborn child of Titans along with her cousin, Asteria. Styx is revered as the first of her kind – until she is eclipsed and forgotten amid her scores of siblings. As she feels ostracized, she finds solace and sisterhood with Asteria as we see them through the years from the reign of Kronos to the introduction of Zeus and his takeover.
This story is written in prose, and as such, I expected something more lyrical. However, I unfortunately found this to lack that sense of flow in its language, making the story feel rougher around the edges and disjointed. What should have been a rather quick read felt more of a slog to get through at times. I think this story would have been more impactful if it were not written in this poetic form. It just felt like it was formatted into a poetic style, but did not read like poetry in the end.
I did enjoy aspects of the book, primarily with the theme. However, the format was to the story's detriment.
Thank you very much to NetGalley for providing this ARC in exchange for my honest review!
Syx - The River follows the firstborn child of Titans along with her cousin, Asteria. Styx is revered as the first of her kind – until she is eclipsed and forgotten amid her scores of siblings. As she feels ostracized, she finds solace and sisterhood with Asteria as we see them through the years from the reign of Kronos to the introduction of Zeus and his takeover.
This story is written in prose, and as such, I expected something more lyrical. However, I unfortunately found this to lack that sense of flow in its language, making the story feel rougher around the edges and disjointed. What should have been a rather quick read felt more of a slog to get through at times. I think this story would have been more impactful if it were not written in this poetic form. It just felt like it was formatted into a poetic style, but did not read like poetry in the end.
I did enjoy aspects of the book, primarily with the theme. However, the format was to the story's detriment.
July 5, 2026
Thank you to netgalley and the publisher for the e-ARC!
I enjoyed this immensely, though I knew I would because it is rare for me to consume Ancient Greek mythology and not enjoy it. I appreciated that Gill wrote about Styx, who I think is greatly under acknowledged despite being such a massive figure in Greek mythology. This made me feel for her and her family as we got to see the war of the titans from the perspective of the titans.
The fact that this novel was written in verse originally gave me pause but I got used to it quickly and ended up enjoying it. I also enjoyed the fact that was got to see Styx and Asteria’s friendship for so long - it made me feel that much more connected to Styx.
I am definitely looking forward to reading Hekate now and looking forward for what Gill writes in the future!
I enjoyed this immensely, though I knew I would because it is rare for me to consume Ancient Greek mythology and not enjoy it. I appreciated that Gill wrote about Styx, who I think is greatly under acknowledged despite being such a massive figure in Greek mythology. This made me feel for her and her family as we got to see the war of the titans from the perspective of the titans.
The fact that this novel was written in verse originally gave me pause but I got used to it quickly and ended up enjoying it. I also enjoyed the fact that was got to see Styx and Asteria’s friendship for so long - it made me feel that much more connected to Styx.
I am definitely looking forward to reading Hekate now and looking forward for what Gill writes in the future!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley and Little, Brown Books for Young Readers for giving me an ARC in exchange for an honest review. As always, all beliefs, thoughts, and opinions stated in this review are my own.
I enjoyed the comfortable balance between slow descriptive moments as well as the exciting, plot-driving scenes. However, while some sections used the novel in verse format to its full potential, other scenes read like prose with extra line breaks.
The characters were strong and well-built, even the minor ones. This made the book’s long timespan really pay off as the reader watches the characters mature. This was particularly interesting with Metis, and I hope that there will be a book focusing on her in the future.
All in all, this is worth reading if you are interested in Greek mythology but are tired of reading it from the same perspectives.
I enjoyed the comfortable balance between slow descriptive moments as well as the exciting, plot-driving scenes. However, while some sections used the novel in verse format to its full potential, other scenes read like prose with extra line breaks.
The characters were strong and well-built, even the minor ones. This made the book’s long timespan really pay off as the reader watches the characters mature. This was particularly interesting with Metis, and I hope that there will be a book focusing on her in the future.
All in all, this is worth reading if you are interested in Greek mythology but are tired of reading it from the same perspectives.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
All myths should be told in poetry. I applaud Gill for weaving this story in verse. It’s beautifully done. At its core though, this is a devastating story. I love the contrasts here: love, loss, secrets, revelations, betrayal, and fidelity. Readers will adore Styx and her willingness to protect those she loves at all costs. I hadn’t spent much time thinking about the Titians before now. This book definitely brought it to life. A wonderful story brought to life by a gifted poet.
Review of advance copy
I was gifted this ARC by a friend who owns my local bookstore as she knew i was seeing Nikita Gill at a writers festival last weekend.
I loved this book pacing and story were great. Styx could easily be a standalone. Most of the relationships felt credible which is often not the case when writing immortal characters. I'm very interested in reading more verse novels 4.5 five stars
I loved this book pacing and story were great. Styx could easily be a standalone. Most of the relationships felt credible which is often not the case when writing immortal characters. I'm very interested in reading more verse novels 4.5 five stars
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
When I tell you this book had a chokehold on me just like the previous book (Hekate). I could not put this book down. The verse flows so easily and the story draws you in without being over complicated. I have already pre-ordered my own copy to have as this was an ARC I received .
A very rare 5 star review for me!
A very rare 5 star review for me!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Nikita Gill does not disappoint with this second installment of her Greek goddess series. The story is written entirely in beautiful lyrical poetry. Gill seamlessly captures the lives and emotions of her characters while crafting a compelling and unique retelling of familiar events from Greek Mythology through the eyes of less well known characters.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Styx is a wonderful retelling of the original myth. Told through alternating points of view, Styx and Astoria, tell their story and humanize the Titans in a way that allows readers to relate to them. The story is one of neglect and abuse, but also full of friendship and love.
I enjoyed the story and it did pull me in even without knowing the myth behind it. The romance was all kisses and anything else was behind closed doors. A great read for any high school library.
I enjoyed the story and it did pull me in even without knowing the myth behind it. The romance was all kisses and anything else was behind closed doors. A great read for any high school library.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A retelling of the story of Styx, before she became the goddess of the river of souls.
I tore through this. I had never really known Styx’s story, but I feel like I have a much better picture of who she was and what she went through. And how she became the river. I love a good mythology retelling. I will definitely be adding this to my shelf with Circe and The Song of Achilles!!
I tore through this. I had never really known Styx’s story, but I feel like I have a much better picture of who she was and what she went through. And how she became the river. I love a good mythology retelling. I will definitely be adding this to my shelf with Circe and The Song of Achilles!!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
*Thank you to Little Brown books, Nikita Gill and Netgalley for providing me with a E-ARC of "Styx" in exchange for an honest review.*
I love Nikita's work, and this was no exception. She has such a way with words.
I love Nikita's work, and this was no exception. She has such a way with words.
August 4, 2026
I simply love a Greek mythology retelling and Nikita Gill does them perfectly. She writes in poetic verse, as she should. She writes powerful, defiant women, as she should. I’m just not sure the Styx and Asteria friendship story is all that compelling.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
ABSOLUTELY AMAZING!! so honoured that I was picked as an ARC readers for this book Nikita gill is a goddess herself her writing is second to none she is an absolute STAR
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I loved the first one but this was next level. The amount of emotion you get from so few words actually blows my mind. I fr was almost sobbing at the end this was so so good
Review of advance copy
Words flow like ambrosia from Nikita Gill’s pen.
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