Wicked Beauty: Book Review

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I discovered Katee Robert earlier this year, and have been devouring her entire collection of novels. The Dark Olympus series is by far my favorite, and some of my most anticipated releases. I am lucky enough that my library system seems to agree with my general excitement for these novels, and hosts many of Robert’s books on Hoopla as soon as they are published.

Wicked Beauty follows the first throuple of the series which includes Achilles, Patroclus, and Helen. Robert’s has a very distinguishable romantic writing style, which is what initially got me hooked on the first and second books of this series. I loved watching the characters fall for each other as the stories progressed. With this book, for some reason, I found myself much more invested in the plot while enjoying the romantic endeavors as more of an exceptional bonus.

We meet our three main characters after the death of one of the Thirteen. They all end entangled in a competition to become the new Ares, and must survive three trials to win the prestigious title. In between the trials we watch each characters internal struggle to reexamine their independent driving force, come to terms with why they are in this competition, and what it will mean for their futures.

The dynamic between Achilles, Patroclus, and Helen fit like a puzzle. Helen is almost equal parts Achilles and Patroclus, which meant she was able to create a bridge between the two men, and ease some of their initial reservations.

The more I read from Robert the more I realize what a distinct writing voice they have. Sometimes repetitive phrases through the course of a novel or series of novels can become so aggravating that I’ll become disinterested. With this series, however, I’m still rather invested in the story, and think this novel specifically set up a really great conflict for Radiant Sin, which is expected to be released in early 2023.

Mild trigger warnings: discussion/flashback of verbally abusive relationship, brief discussion of death of a parent & miscarriage, fighting/general violence during the trials

4/5 Stars