Westside Oracle

Midlife Olympians #1

by T.J. Deschamps

When the fake fortune teller receives the gift of the oracle, of course there’s strings attached. Olympic-sized strings.

Some people get Green Eggs and Ham as a bedtime story, I got tales of gods and Titans, nymphs, demigods, and Oracles. My Greek grandparents not only told me stories. They were so proud of their culture and heritage, making sure I was fluent in both reading and writing the language.

I thought I knew who I was, my heritage, my culture, my destiny.

All of that changed when a Titan named Dione walked through the door of my divination shop. For so many years, I’d thought I’d been scamming people by reading their fortunes. Turns out I’m the real deal. Dione says a fortune, a job as Oracle to the Gods, and the deed to a property in a small town near the Washington Olympics awaits.

The problem is, the cops are after me for Carlo’s latest scam, scary monsters want to kidnap me, and everyone who takes the post of Oracle to the Olympians dies mysteriously.

Who knew going legit would be so dangerous?

Genres: Fantasy, Urban Fantasy, Audiobook, Mythology, Contemporary, Mystery

215 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 15, 2023

About the author

After living all over the U.S., T.J. Deschamps made the Pacific Northwest her home. There she raises three precocious teens. T.J. likes to lift weights, read, draw, dance, and collect oddities. Loves building worlds with words. Might be a dragon. Definitely a bog witch.

Reviews

[M.J. Pankey]

DNF at 37%

This was one had me hooked from the get go. The main character's personality and voice was spunky and unapologetic, and the setup with her lying husband was compelling and intriguing. When she learns she's descended from Delphian oracles and Hermes shows up, I was invested.

There's a point where a bunch of different gods are introduced, some from other mythologies, and it's a little chaotic and unfocused for me and I thought the plot got a little muddled. Ultimately, that's where I stopped reading.

I think this story has a lot to offer though, it's funny and entertaining at the start and I have no doubt that continues to the end.

[Christina Frøkjær · Rating 4 out of 5]

Percy Jackson for middle-aged mothers!
This quick listen was fun and exciting for me.
I have adored Greek myths for decades, so when I saw the synopsis, I just had to listen to this story. And I was not disappointed. The narrator did a great job, and it took me just a couple of minutes to get immersed in Lydia's story.
As a mother in my late 30'ies, I absolutely could identify with Lydia and her journey. I also have difficulty jumping from roof to roof and although I'm my own person, I still worry about my kids.
The way Deschamps was able to weave the ancient Greek myths into a modern universe, even one where other supernatural beings exist.
I loved it all, and just have to get the next in the series.

[Debra · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a fun book! The characters are engaging and snappy. I enjoyed the Greek myths and legends, some of which were new to me. This was a quick read for me, and I smiled throughout the book. A great way to escape from my everyday world. I look forward to reading more by this author. I received an advance review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Ysobella Black · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series starter was a fun introduction to Lydia and her new, crazy world full of gods and monsters. The world building was a great mix of mythology and modern times.

Lydia was a great character. who had to overcome a new challenge every time she turned around. I liked her immediately and loved her kind of shady side. It was perfect for a woman who was married to a con man for so long.

There are plenty of shenanigans and skullduggery, slow burn romance, action, drama, humor, and family secrets are revealed. The cast of supporting characters was entertaining, and I can see the potential for further adventures in this series.

Cassandra Medcalf's performance was perfect to bring the story to life and
channel Lydia.

[tburbr · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a great way to start a series. The character work and story line were well written and I was hooked from start to finish. I can't wait to see what happens next.

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

[Vannessa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this first book in this series. TJ Deschamps was a new author for me, but I grabbed this one from Book Sirens as the blurb really intrigued me, and I'm so glad I did.

Lydia, aka Francine, lives her life as a psychic giving tarot card readings to anyone who pops into her shop, but she knows it's all fake and just good body language reading. But is it? Her husband on the other hand is a nasty piece of work and a high end scam artist, but she hasn't yet found the courage to leave him despite the way he treats her and their son.

On the day she receives a visit from someone claiming to know the real Lydia and tells her of her new role within the Greek pantheon, her husband does a runner. Little does Lydia know how both of these events will change her life completely.

She has an adventure like nothing she's ever done before - meeting Titans and being kidnapped by them, gods, fae princes, harpies amongst many others all while trying to make her way to her mother's former home to take on this new role and to start a new life away from Carlo and his dodgy dealings. Luckily for her, Lydia has some good people on her side, but can she really trust any of them? There's too many people and beings out there wanting to use her for their own goals or to stop her completely from taking up the mantle of the new oracle to the Gods!

I really enjoyed Lydia as a character. Despite how downtrodden she was at the beginning, she soon found her independence and her inner strength to not let anyone walk all over her again. She stood up for herself, fought for what she believed was right and for those she loves. She still has a lot to learn about her new found powers and I can't wait to read the next book to find out more about what she can do! And who could not love Spot?!

I received an ARC copy of this book from Book Sirens, but this review is my own, honest one!

[Pitoufa's Bookish Corner · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one was a nice surprise ❤ I really enjoyed it and all the Greek mythology elements within it. I've always found Greek Mythology to be quite fascinating, and even though I've only got a surface-level type of knowledge about it, I still like listening to related stories or even watching movies/TV shows that contain Greek mythology or ANY mythology elements for that matter! I do think some parts of it are pretty messed up, not gonna lie 🤣 but the magic, the lessons learned from those myths, and stories of finding one's true self and purpose are pretty good entertainment.

Lydia was a middle-aged lady who'd pretty much given up on everything she could've had, had she taken a second to have a look at her life and realized she had not lived, merely survived for decades. Lydia knew she was not happy, knew it pained her to know that the man she'd shared vows with all those years ago was nothing but a lowlife, coward, cheating poor excuse of a man. She could've left with her son, but she'd chosen to stay with a man who'd ended up having annulled their marriage for WEEKS without telling her and who did not hesitate to pin all his crimes on her to save his less-than-worthy butt!

It can be hard to accept that your life is not nearly as perfect as you want it or pretend for it to be, and I get that it was hard for her to cut ties with a toxic environment that had all but left her empty inside; but honestly? She was not as lonely as she thought she would be without her ex, and she should've known better than to look past all of his cons for the simple pro of him being the only fixture in her life. It took her some time, but she eventually opened her eyes and decided to live for herself, and got reunited with an entire crowd of found family she never even dreamed of having ❤

I truly had fun with this one and can't wait to read the rest of the series 😍

[Melanie Stewart · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a fun story. Lydia had her entire life such as it was turned upside down for the better. As if starting over in your forties would not be enough challenge, she started over as an Oracle and oh yeah, the Greek gods are real. That is a lot to unpack especially for a woman who was essentially alone. And to keep piling on she had to embrace this new life all the while running on monsters. Lydia's life was chaos but it sure made for a fun story that kept you turning the pages anticipating what was next.

As a fan of Hercules the Legendary Journey, I had an OMG moment when it turned out that she had been taken by Echidna and Typhon. Her saviors came from a vast array of mythical beings but again Lydia had to take that in stride. She may have had her work cut out from her but as a former con, she had a resilient spirit. Learning the truth about her family should have been crushing but again she relied on her inner strength to push through. With a ragtag team of Hermes, Cerberus and Arachnia at her back, she started to find her place only to go full mama bear to help Luke.

The sheer number of awesome characters in this book was easily the best part. For those of us who enjoyed Greek mythology in school, here is your chance to get pulled back in as you navigate a whole new world. I mentioned a particular tv show, there is even a callout to the sister show. As I type this review, I raised the rating from 4 to 5 because there was literally more to love about this story than I could imagine. I can't wait to keep reading to see where the latest curve takes our crew. Oh and for those of you who like to see justice done we get that in spades too. I would totally recommend this book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Blake · Rating 3 out of 5]

(FYI I tend to only review one book per series, unless I want to change my scoring by 0.50 or more of a star. -- I tend not to read reviews until after I read a book, so I go in with an open mind.)

Follow up series to the Eastside series, I read the first 3 of that (I don't own book 4 yet), then this one and I think it does need to be read after the trilogy.

First time read the author's work?: Yes

Will you be reading more?: Possibly

Would you recommend?: Probably


------------
How I rate Stars: 5* = I loved (must read all I can find by the author)
4* = I really enjoyed (got to read all the series and try other books by the author).
3* = I enjoyed (I will continue to read the series)
or
3* = Good book just not my thing (I realised I don't like the genre or picked up a kids book to review in error.)

All of the above scores means I would recommend them!
-
2* = it was okay (I might give the next book in the series a try, to see if that was better IMHO.)
1* = Disliked

Note: adding these basic 'reviews' after finding out that some people see the stars differently than I do - hoping this clarifies how I feel about the book. :-)

[Carin Boersma - Diepstraten · Rating 5 out of 5]

OK how to explain this series?! It is fun-filled, nail-biting, fantasy-full, makes you giggle and cheer for the leading couple and their family and friends… This book is the first installment in a 3 part series but a 4th book is announced in the authors' notes at the end of the 3rd book and I cannot wait to get my hands on it.

I really loved this book but I never read T.J.'s books before. I was a little hesitant to start because big books.... But ladies... I was so wrong to be hesitant.. After the first chapter I was hooked and this series kept me company while recuperating from Long Covid. I cannot give a 6 star mark for this story but how I would love to give 6 stars.

Be prepared for sleepless nights, munching on cookies and crisps for if you start with this series you will not be able to put the books down. The world is filled with gods, goddesses, and all the mythological creatures you can think of.

My wish for 2024? More books set in this world built by T.J….

Through BookSirens I received an ARC and I choose to leave this review.

[Peter S Brown · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good find that is worth the money.

You just know by the first few pages if a book is going to be good. Is it the writing? Is it the subject? Who knows each one of us is different. However by page fourteen, I knew this was a book to absorb me and keep my attention. The characters, especially the ‘gods’ are well described both in looks, abilities and attitude. Humour is natural to all of us and Fran had life in buckets. The old saying about a woman scorned is here in buckets and then some. Overall, yes book two is a must. Be warned, to make things easier, have a book to hand explaining the Greek and Roman gods side by side. The only downside is that I purchased the first chapter of book two, will book two include the last chapter of book one? It has been my intent since day one not to read these teasers especially if the follow on book is ages away. Good buy that for once is as stated in the blurb.

[PAR · Rating 5 out of 5]

T.J. Deschamps is one of those extremely talented authors who is able to weave mythology and fantasy and create an entirely new world while using the mythology of old. She takes the ancient Greek myths turning them into a modern universe, one with other supernatural beings. She writes stories with diverse characters and subversive themes. Deschamps creates truly fallible characters, while fantastical, you feel yourself a part of the family. She is incredibly talented, which is reflected throughout the entire novel. All of her leads are brilliant. Join this intricate fantasy Thrill Ride. The narrative is fantastic, setting the scene and helping to further develop the characters’ personalities. I received this novel from BookSirens. This is my true and honest opinion.

[Manon F · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was fun to read! It’s the story of the woman who makes the impossible to escape from her husband. She learns she has magical faculties.

It’s based on mythology. The main protagonist is in her early 40s. I could relate to her when she refers to her teenage year, and personal self-esteem and self-image.

The text it well written (I’m not a native-English) and the story flowed very well from action to internal and external dialog. When read the story, you see what happens as if you were watching a movie.

I had a good time and I laughed many times while reading it. To me, this book delivers its promises.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought this was a great story! I listened to it in audiobook format and was eager to listen on my commutes to and from work and while making dinner and doing chores. I love that I am around the same age as the main character and could relate to her in that way, and that so much history and mythology is woven into the magic and magical creatures all existing in mostly present day America. I could imagine the road trip scenes, I could imagine the rest stops and hotel lobby and was easily able to picture the more fantastical realms because of the great way the surroundings were woven into the story. I’m looking forward to listening to the next two books and think this is an author I am likely to read much more from.

[Patricia · Rating 5 out of 5]

T.J. Deschamps has won me over.

1st I love the midlife books since yeah I'm part of that demographic.

2nd Greek mythology is high on my list of loves.

Now when you have an author who knows how to blend the two it's a joy to read.

The main character Lydia learns from a young age that life is not a bowl of cherries but she makes the best till many years later everything she thought she knew is false.

There is a lot of action, some of the most interesting characters and of course lots of chaos when it comes to the gods.

I found myself enthralled and obsessed with reading well into the night.

I honestly can't wait to see what comes next.

I was lucky enough to get my hands on a free copy and it's a pleasure to pass on my love of the story to others.

[Raven and Chris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ok I have found an new author to enjoy. I tend to be a fan of books with older characters but I had never read a book by this author before. I very thoroughly enjoyed reading about Lydia. Our poor heroine is fed up. She is sassy, strong, and tired of putting up with other people’s crap. And when she finally gets a break and decides to take a chance, she gets caught up in the machinations of the gods of Olympus. When can a lady decide enough is enough?!? I loved Lydia. I can’t wait to see more of her and her son Luke, maybe even Hermes. This cast of characters is her new found family and I gobbled it up. EThe world this author has created is like catnip to me, having once been fascinated with fairy tales and the old myths and legends.

[Ashley Wrenn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. First and foremost, if you were a fan of Percy Jackson, you'll like this read! It gives the same urban, witty vibes but with a mature FMC and spice. The characters are all quite over the top, and that makes the story so much fun. I cackled almost every time a new character was introduced. Each of them with their own little story is on a mission to help or hurt our FMC. It's not often in mythology retelling that you get the story from the oracle, and I personally found that refreshing. It satisfies those who love the epic quest but in an amazing race style. I loved the pace and how the characters were continuously pushing you further along the plot.

Some Tropes:

✨️ Plus Size FMC
✨️ Slow Burn
✨️ Epic Quest
✨️ Urban Greek Mythology

[Ange · Rating 4 out of 5]

✨️ BOOK REVIEW ✨️

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 0 (But there are some very romantic kisses, and swoon worthy statments)

Westside Oracle by T.J. Deschamps is what I imagine Percy Jackson would be if he were a woman in her 40s having a midlife crisis and being thrust into a war between Olympians.
It's intriguing, relatable, adventurous, and at its heart its about Lydia(our FMC) finding herself after her disaster of a marriage and getting back to her roots.

I listened to the audiobook narrated by @cassandramedcalfvo and it was superb. The Grecian accents were on point and every character had a distinct voice. I haven't looked yet, but I sincerely hope she was the voice actor for the rest of the series.

[Molly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lydia learns about a whole lot of family history and surprises around the same time her pig of a husband leaves her with divorce papers and clears out their bank accounts.

some con must have gone badly wrong

can Lydia escape the troubles her ex dumped on her and their son, cope with her new family gifts and challenges, and survive and protect her family?

a hot god or two, some killer distant kin, and too many governing bodies to make sense for anyone to have to deal with make this fast paced adventure in surviving midlife- and just plain surviving- an insightful and fun resd

powerful perspectives and reimaginings

[Sara Irons · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed the plot of the story and the characters are very well done.
Imagine living your whole life and in one day your life is turned upside down when finding out that what and who you thought you were, is far from the truth.
Lydia is much more than she ever knew she was. The journey of finding the truth leads to a magical experience that she thought were only fairytale.
Will Lydia be able to find her place in her new reality. Will she find the love that she deserves? Only time will tell.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fun book mixed with Greek myths and legends. The plot is well written and keeps you engaged, you will not want to put the book down. I also enjoyed the characters. Lydia finds out that she is an oracle, but her path is hard. As she adjusts to a whole new world she has to figure out who she can really trust. I love how Lydia faces challenges and grows throughout the story. I can’t wait to read more of the series. I recommend you read this book, you will definitely enjoy the characters. I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Christine Biesheuvel · Rating 4 out of 5]

How to become an Oracle
The first book in a series of four tells how a small town fortune teller becomes an Oracle. But, if you have no or little knowledge of Greek mythology the first thirteen chapters will get you a bit lost with all the different names and creatures. After that I find the story a bit easier to follow and quite amusing, especially her budding relationship with Hermes and Spot/Cerberus.

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

[Krysten · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book, I've always liked Greek mythology and found it interesting to have the gods play a role in a seemingly mundane life. As it turns out Lydia isn't really mundane, she's an Oracle and after accepting this post all the real adventure and turmoil begins. I do wish we got to more of her powers in this book but info realize it's a series so I'll have to continue on to see how her journey unfolds.

[Kathy Cohen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oracles, Titans, Olympians, Archangels, Oh My!

Greek mythology? This was a little hard to follow. I wish I knew Greek mythology better, but I still enjoyed following the main character in this novel to see what exciting escapades she would fall into next. Oracles,fairies, Archangels, etc., all were a part of the story. I was very happy with the characters and the ending. I think you will enjoy this book.

[Kat M · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great start to the Midlife Olympians series, it had a great story going on and it was a great introduction to this world. I always love a good Greek mythology based book. The characters were what I was hoping for and am glad I got to read this.

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

[Nicole Finch · Rating 3 out of 5]

Okay, listen. This was cute and fun while I was reading it, if I didn't think too hard about it. I counted, and this relatively short book did have eight (8) "erstwhiles" in it, so that's the level of thoughtfulness in editing we're dealing with here. Would I read more in the series? Strong maybe. But I will honestly probably just forget it exists.

[Dora · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has some interactions with previous players from the series starting with Eastside Hedge Witch. Reading those first isn't a must but will give you a deeper understanding of the people and events leading to this book.
This books really touches into Greek Mythology and is an interesting read. The characters are solid and the writing is done well.

[LaWanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. It has humor, mystery, and mythology. A perfect blend of genres. It's well written. Even though it's the start of a series, it isn't left on a cliffhanger, which I loathe. I can't wait until the next book comes out because I want to see what else happens in her life!
I received this as a freebie, but this review is my own thoughts and opinions, freely given.

[Miranda Summerset · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5/5 STARS! Adult Percy Jackson fans will enjoy this. Loved listening to the audiobook & found this addicting to listen to. I liked the plot, LOVE Greek mythology, & adored the characters. Only complaint is I wished we could have gotten more world building/settings, but it's didn't hold this fun plot back. Had a good time with this quick & enjoyable read.

[Karen Fisher · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this story! Such a delightful romp through Greek mythology. Lydia is such a contrast to what an Oracle brings to mind. I had a good chuckle at the "alphahole" statement. I look forward to the next in the series.

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