Greek Mythology in Romance, YA, and Fantasy Books
The Myths Behind the Magic
Greek Mythology in Romance, YA, and Fantasy Books
Greek mythology has been a source of inspiration for centuries, and it’s no surprise that it continues to weave its way into the pages of romance, young adult (YA), and fantasy novels. From epic love stories to gods and goddesses meddling in the affairs of mortals, Greek myths provide a wide variety of themes, characters, and stories that authors love to explore. Let’s dive into the most common ideas and characters from Greek mythology that you’re likely to encounter in these genres—and why they make such compelling reads (and some book recommendations along the way).
Before we dive into the books, let’s countdown the most popular Greek gods and pairings. You can also find more Greek mythology romance books and Non-Greek mythology books.
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Top 10 Greek Gods or Pairings You’ll Find in These Books
Hades and Persephone - Their story of forbidden love and the underworld is a favorite in romantasy and fantasy books.
Zeus - Often portrayed as the all-powerful ruler of the gods, Zeus's affairs and quests for power are central to many stories.
Aphrodite - The goddess of love and beauty, Aphrodite's influence is felt in any tale that centers on romance or desire.
Apollo and Daphne - Their story of unrequited love and transformation has inspired many tragic romances.
Artemis - The virgin goddess of the hunt, Artemis is often depicted as a strong, independent figure in YA and fantasy novels.
Achilles and Patroclus - Their deep bond and tragic fate are explored in many retellings, often emphasizing themes of love and heroism.
Orpheus and Eurydice - The ultimate tale of love lost and the perilous journey to the Underworld, their story is a staple in myth-inspired novels.
Athena - The goddess of wisdom and war, Athena often appears as a guide or protector in stories involving quests or battles.
Medusa - A figure of both horror and sympathy, Medusa’s curse and her interactions with gods and heroes provide rich material for fantasy novels.
Hera - As the queen of the gods, Hera’s stories often explore themes of jealousy, power, and revenge, particularly in relationships.