Review: Wicked Beauty by Katee Robert

A modern retelling of Greek Mythology with just enough spice to keep you going.

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@shereadsbooks.sometimes

Dates read: 02/07/25 to 05/07/25

Word to describe: Sinful

Star rating:⭐⭐⭐⭐

Genre: Romantic Fiction / Myth Retelling

In a world where power means marrying the elite, the daughter of the former Zeus and the sister of the current one, Helen Kasios is not going to become a bargaining chip. Even if this means she has to fight in the race to become a member of the thirteen - against her brother's wishes. Achilles is vying for power and a life of contentment, alongside his lover Patroclus, nothing will stop him reaching his goal. Not even Helen herself.

In the last book in the best-selling series by Katee Robert there were a shake up of the thirteen when Aphrodite was removed from power and replaced with another Kasois child. In this book, readers learn that poor old Ares has died and yet again the chance for the Kasois to reach more power has arrived. The new Zeus knows exactly how to play the role of Ares by announcing that the winner of the tournament for the role gets to wed his younger and hard to control sister. Helen Kasois. But here's the issue, Helen is not one to the sold and in the dark of night Helen volunteers to be a part of the tournament herself to win her freedom from her family and a life of wifely servitude.

In this three person POV book, we are introduced to Helen (sarcastic and bitterly awaiting her freedom), Achillles (strong sexy and ever- so irritating), and the sweet and handsome Patroclus. Despite their rocky start, the throuple find there way to friendship and make a pact with one another to knock out the opponents in the Ares Tournament and secure one of the trio on top. The deal ensures that Helen will get her freedom if one of the men win; and Achilles and Patroclus will be looked after if Helen wins. What could possibly go wrong? I'm sure some good old fashioned naked attraction and jealousy wouldn't ruin this fragile friendship. They only have to battle out the rest of the Olympian followers (and some twisted newcomers) right?.

Whilst things are getting messy and bloody within the tournaments, things are getting steamy outside as lovers Patroclus and Achilles both fall for Helen and find themselves vying for her love and attention. Helen struggles with keeping the goal in sight as she in turn becomes enamoured with both souls. So, naturally, the three engage in some saucy side activities and try to ignore the fact that they are all battling each other and in the one only one of them can win. Who will it be?

I really enjoyed this story. From the head to head alpha battle between Helen and Achilles' personalities, and the absolute angel that is Patroclus (seriously, I will marry that man!), Katee Roberts gives readers a mix of sweet sexual tension, sarcastic word play, and a vicious plot to suck readers in. Each time I read one of her books I become an even bigger fan of her world building. The city of Olympus is a hot mess and Wicked Beauty is no different!

My only wish - and its minor really, is that I could have them all myself!