A review by planreadrepeat
Godly Heathens by H.E. Edgmon

dark emotional mysterious tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
Teenagers that are actually reincarnated gods living in a small town in Georgia. Non-binary, trans, gay, and general queerness. Indigenous representation. A wide cast of diverse characters. Yep, this book has them all.

Fantasy with some horror, I can see teens really enjoying this book. There is representation for just about anyone. Choice vs destiny was one of the main themes in my opinion. Gem has to make many choices while learning her destiny. Does she make her own or follow paths others have set for her? How much of her is a god and how much is a nonbinary Seminole teen living in Georgia? Gem was a very lovable character. Watching her balance her life as a teenager with the growing power of her godhood made me sympathetic to her decisions. Even when I was internally screaming that they were the wrong ones.

The story was very engaging and dense. Confusing at times because of names changing and learning who is who in the god pantheon. The ending was tense and left me hanging for the next book but wrapped up the story at the same time.  Recommend this for teens, especially those looking for representation and heavy plots. 

Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and Wednesday Books for the opportunity to read this book.
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