Book Review: Aphrodite by Anastasia Thomas

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


In Aphrodite, Anastasia Thomas tells a story that blends myth and modern life in a way that feels both familiar and surprising. The book draws readers into a richly imagined world where ancient gods walk among us—and where the lines between fantasy and reality blur just enough to keep things interesting.

The story centers on Rachel, who suddenly discovers she is Aphrodite—a being of immense power with a lot to learn. As she grapples with this new identity, she’s drawn to Vlad, another mythical figure with a complicated past. Together, they face supernatural enemies and very real human challenges, including imprisonment. The plot moves between grand, otherworldly settings and gritty, grounded situations, with themes of love, sacrifice, and personal growth woven throughout.

Thomas’s writing is detailed and often poetic, especially when describing the mythical landscapes and emotional inner worlds of her characters. Fans of fantasy romance will likely enjoy the mix of action, tension, and slow-burn chemistry. The mythology feels fresh, especially in how it’s layered over more relatable, present-day dilemmas.

That said, the middle chapters could benefit from a slightly tighter pace. Some scenes linger longer than needed and slow down the story’s momentum. But overall, the novel stays engaging, and the characters’ emotional journeys keep it grounded even when the plot takes a fantastical turn.

If you’re more into realistic or contemporary fiction, this might not be your cup of tea. But if you like immersive fantasy with strong romantic threads and emotionally complex characters—think along the lines of Sarah J. Maas or Deborah Harkness—you’ll probably find plenty to enjoy here.

Aphrodite doesn’t just retell old myths; it reimagines them in ways that feel personal and relevant. It’s a thoughtful and entertaining read that explores love, identity, and what it means to have power in a complicated world.



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