Threads That Bind by Kika Hatzopoulou Review

Hello Readers,
Most Greek mythology retellings stick to the main Olympians, but Threads That Bind refreshingly centres lesser-known deities. This genre-blending novel part fantasy, part sci-fi, part thriller and delivers a bold, unforgettable take on myth.

Please note that I don’t own the rights to the cover image the image is being used under Fair Use for review and review purposes, in accordance with sections 29 and 30 of the Copyright Act. The cover is too pretty to be black and white on my kindle.


At the heart of the novel is Io Ora, the youngest of three sisters and a descendant of the Moirai, the Greek Fates. In this world, “other-born” individual’s descendants of gods from global pantheons including Greek, Slavic, African, and Middle Eastern mythologies inherit fragments of divine power. Io and her sisters are uniquely bound to fate itself: Thais weaves the threads of destiny, Ava draws them out, and Io, burdened with the cruellest role, is fated to cut them.

Io, a private investigator in the urban sprawl of a post-apocalyptic refuge city called Atlante, is hired by a gang boss to investigate a series of supernatural murders. The case is complicated by the fact that she must work alongside a man unknowingly tethered to her by fate his life, like others before him, hanging in the balance of her gift. The mystery at the novel’s core is tightly plotted and full of secrets, twists, and satisfying reveals that make it difficult to put down.

Kika’s worldbuilding stands out. Atlante is genuinely diverse, with “other-born” characters descended from global pantheons such as Slavic, African, Middle Eastern, and more. This multicultural mythology gives the world a lived-in, inclusive feel, far beyond a token representation.

The magic system, inspired by muses and goddesses, is intricate but accessible. Io’s ability to see and cut fate threads is both symbolic and narratively rich, heightening every choice she makes. Her character is fiercely loyal yet deeply insecure, and her vulnerability is portrayed with rare nuance through third-person narration.

Though there are some predictable moments, the story shines in its execution. Found family, romance, sisterhood, and myth intertwine seamlessly in a smart, challenging, and emotionally resonant read. This book doesn’t just reimagine mythology it elevates it. For fans of layered worldbuilding, diverse casts, and morally complex heroines, this is one to devour. I’m already eagerly awaiting the sequel.

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