Review by Frank Plowright

Over the previous three volumes the primary focus of Lore Olympus has been the faltering steps taken toward a relationship between Hades, god of the underworld, and Persephone, who represents both Spring and fertility. Awkwardness, misunderstandings and manipulation have been masterfully played out by Rachel Smythe, yet that’s not Hades being embraced on the cover.

However, that’s a scene from far nearer the end than the start of Volume Four, which picks up with the consequences of the date missed at the end of Volume Three. Despite being ruler of the underworld, Hades isn’t an assertive personality, and is all too easily manipulated by women. During a flashback we see how Hera learned that when young, while Minthe believes she has Hades wrapped around her finger, but as we saw, she was waylaid by someone even more devious. While not all the gods are ill-intentioned, most are, and while Persephone’s naivety is explained by her relative youth, Hades is possibly even less worldly in some respects.

Edwin Vazquez is credited for the layouts on this volume, and there is a slight difference apparent to the art, with Smythe on occasion heading further into cartoon exaggeration than previously. Perhaps time was short, but it’s interesting that a layout artist is required for a series so heavily dependent on facial storytelling with little in the way of background or scenery. As ever, Smythe is excellent at delivering surprise and emotion, and unlike other series relying so heavily on figures, there’s never a feeling of being shortchanged by the lack of backgrounds.

For all the astutely plotted romcom notes there’s a warning opening each volume of Lore Olympus dealing with possibly triggering issues, because it’s gradually becoming apparent that they’re a major part of what’s going on. The shameless arrogance and entitlement of the old gods is an ideal method of highlighting behaviour that should always be called out. Apollo’s coercion of Persephone earlier in the series prompts a discussion, with Apollo’s attitude that of typical current day guy not listening to what’s being said even when it’s spelled out and highlighted in bold. It’s not the only example of toxic male behaviour, with Zeus an experienced gaslighter, and others stirring the shit to upset people for their own amusement. It’s tense, squirming drama, but for some the warning will be required.

Each volume is hefty, but Smythe covers a lot of ground, and much changes between the covers, which can be taken as you will. We only reach the cover illustration right before the end, and it’s a clever subversion of expectations.

Lore Olympus just keeps improving. Bring on Volume Five.