Book Review: Torn (Dark Gods: Selfish Myths) by Natalia Jaster
Every so often, a book comes along that invites you to lose yourself in a world brimming with divine intrigue, sharp banter, and simmering romance. Torn, the second installment in Natalia Jaster’s Dark Gods: Selfish Myths, is that kind of book. It caught my attention not merely for its reimagining of Greek mythology but for the enticing promise of a grumpy hero and a sunshine goddess—two archetypes I find irresistible.
In Torn, we follow Icarus, now rebranded as Anger, who has plummeted from the heights of divine glory. Rather than crashing into oblivion, he lands upon the vibrant yet unforgiving terrain of a city filled with outcast gods. Here he encounters Merry, an effervescent goddess hiding her own secrets. Their initial clash ignites a flurry of witty repartee, inching toward a romantic tension that makes you hold your breath.
Jaster’s writing is a treasure trove of emotive language and snappy dialogue. The pacing flows effortlessly from comedic banter to heart-wrenching moments, and each scene feels meticulously crafted. I found myself lost in the vivid world Jaster has spun—a gorgeous tapestry of celestial chaos, where even the gods grapple with their emotions and choices. The imagery is striking, turning the Celestial City into a character all its own, with swirling lights and extravagant rides capturing the chaos of divinity and rebellion.
One of the key themes I appreciated was the exploration of redemption and the struggle for self-identity. Anger is not merely a brooding figure; he’s layered, shaped by past mistakes and the relentless pursuit of love—even if it’s clouded by ulterior motives. Merry, on the other hand, serves as a beacon of light and hope, determined to dismantle the oppressive structures that bind the gods. Their relationship develops in an exhilarating dance of opposing forces, which kept me flipping pages long into the night.
Jaster has a knack for creating memorable characters, each with their quirks and vulnerabilities. I adored the banter between Anger and Merry, but it was moments of deeper connection that truly pulled at my heartstrings. Jaster writes: “You were always enough. Just as you are.” This line encapsulates the essence of their relationship, and it resonated with me intimately.
For readers who revel in the magic of grumpy/sunshine dynamics, intricate plots filled with twists and ethical dilemmas, and a slow-burn romance that spills over with tension, Torn is a must-read. It’s a feast for those who enjoy a rich narrative woven from mythological threads, peppered with humor and heat.
In conclusion, Torn is more than just a fantastical escape; it’s a heartfelt exploration of love, trust, and the murky waters of friendships forged in adversity. If you’re looking for a book that combines steamy romance with an imaginative plot and complex characters, then this sequel certainly deserves a place on your shelf. As I closed the last page, I couldn’t help but feel a mixture of satisfaction and an eager anticipation for what Jaster will conjure next in this world where gods stand on shaky ground amidst the chaos of their own making.