Review of Persephone (Into Shadow, #2) by Lev
When I first saw Persephone (Into Shadow, #2) by Lev in my audiobook library, I was immediately drawn by the intrigue surrounding the titular character. Having expected a Hades x Persephone retelling, my curiosity morphed into excitement as I delved into Persephone’s unique coming-of-age journey. Listening to this book over the weekend while I went about my errands was an immersive experience, one that surprisingly left me feeling quite fulfilled despite a few bumps along the way.
At its heart, Persephone follows our main character as she grapples with the lingering shadows of her past—the disappearance of her father five years ago—and her tumultuous awakening to her own powers. The narrative brilliantly encapsulates the essence of youth, exploring themes of identity, loss, and the whirlwind of emotions that come with crushing disappointments. At one point, I could almost feel the frustration radiating off her when a moment with her crush doesn’t go as desired; the way it “explodes” out of her, quite literally, is both an exhilarating and poignant touch.
While many readers have voiced their discontent with the book, I found it oddly refreshing. Perhaps it’s my penchant for Lev’s writing style—his ability to craft relatable, flawed characters always resonates with me. Sure, Persephone can come off as a "whiny b****" at times (I mean, I felt that!), but you know what? That rawness made her more human. It mirrored the complexities of teenage emotions, and I appreciated that authenticity.
The pacing, however, was a bit of a mixed bag. I ultimately felt that the book concluded just as it began to gain momentum. As I reached the final chapters, a sense of disappointment settled over me; it felt like there was so much more story lurking beneath the surface. This might explain the divided opinions among readers who wanted a more fleshed-out narrative.
One of the most captivating aspects was the unresolved fate of the two students Persephone unintentionally harmed when her powers emerged. This loose end left me restless, as I yearned for a deeper exploration of themes like consequence and accountability. I understand this might frustrate some readers, but it also invites speculation and discussion, which could be a double-edged sword depending on who you ask.
For those who enjoy shorter works that serve as a quick interlude between heavier reads, Persephone fits the bill. It’s that sweet, compact escape that doesn’t overstretch but leaves just enough of an impression to linger. It’s perfect for readers looking for a taste of magic without the full-blown commitment of a lengthy novel.
In closing, I found delight in Lev’s imaginative storytelling and the vivid character of Persephone, exaggerated flaws and all. While the book may not satisfy every reader’s expectations, the experience reminded me why I love exploring new worlds—even when they come with their share of imperfections. If you’re in the mood for intrigue, empowerment, and a dash of youth’s tumultuous rollercoaster, then this might be just what you’re looking for.
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