In Alane Adams' The Eye of Zeus, Phoebe had been passed from pillar to post through the foster system, but no matter where she went, or how determined she was to have a fresh start, trouble always found her. Strange things seemed to happen around her; fires, freak hail storms, it wasn't exactly conducive to a good home. This time she had sworn things would be different, but already she was facing detention. She couldn't understand it, perhaps if she had known the tale of her birth these things would make sense, perhaps if she had known the prophecy then things would have changed. If she knew the truth of her roots then her social worker's abduction by a divine figure would have made sense. Her prophecy said she would destroy Olympus, and if that was what it took to bring back the one constant in her life then even the gods should live in fear because she will stop at nothing to bring him home.

The Eye of Zeus is book one in Alane Adams' Legends Of Olympus. This children's fantasy occurs between the modern-day world and that of ancient Greece as the reader is taken on Phoebe's trials, four of which are the well-known labors of Hercules. This tale is written in an energetic first-person narrative in which Pheobe's character really shines through. The style and plot are easy to follow, making it ideal for the targeted young audience, and has information within which could spur an interest in Greek mythology. Phoebe is a vibrant and charismatic character, determined to save Carl, who through all her homes and relocations has been the one constant in her life, and to do so she needs the help of her friends. Action, betrayal, deception, and conflict drive the plot onwards as they try to outsmart and outmaneuver their enemies in an attempt to overthrow the prophecy, all while running for their lives.

The Eye of Zeus is an adventurous and fun work of children’s fiction penned by author Alane Adams. Set in the mythologically-based fantasy genre, this novel forms the first book in the Legends of Olympus series. Aimed at middle-grade readers, our protagonist is the feisty twelve-year-old Phoebe Katz, for whom life hasn’t been very lucky so far. But when this precocious foster kid discovers that the reason she is fostered is because her father is actually the Greek god Zeus, the true adventure begins. Phoebe and her friends embark on an epic and dangerous quest to fulfil an ancient prophecy and save her beloved social worker all at once.

This is a seriously fun book for mythology fans old and young, as we rediscover the Greek gods and their wickedly powerful ways through a new viewpoint. Phoebe is a modern heroine with true New York City grit, and it’s this powerful personality which really gives the book its charm amid a genre that has a lot of similar stories. The plot really takes off into the stratosphere with the six talismans challenge, and author Alane Adams pitches the action scenes with superb prose that is sharp and highly visual. As readers experience the fantastic beasts and epic lightning fights, there’s also a sensitive character arc developing for Phoebe and her young friends which is sure to build and grow as the series goes on. Overall, The Eye of Zeus is a superb series-starter from an accomplished author, and a highly recommended MG read.

The Eye of Zeus by Alane Adams brings a modern-day perspective to ancient Greece and Greek mythology. The book follows Phoebe Katz, an ordinary girl whose biggest problems are bullies and the fact that she was abandoned as an infant. But her problems get a whole lot bigger when her social worker, Carl, is kidnapped by the god Ares and she learns that she is the demigod daughter of Zeus, who was sent away from ancient Greece because she was prophesied to destroy Olympus. Left with no choice and determined to save Carl, Phoebe and her friends, Damian and Angie, travel to ancient Greece. But practically everyone there wants to kill her, and she soon learns that the only way to save Olympus is to kill six fearsome monsters such as the Nemean lion and the hydra. But can she do it?

Suspenseful and entertaining, the Eye of Zeus by Alane Adams is a thoroughly enjoyable read. Phoebe is a very likable and inspiring character who is brave and smart, and while she may not always make the best decisions, her intentions are good and her mistakes make her more relatable to the reader. The story was breathtaking and thrilling, and I never wanted to put the book down. I loved the plot twists. The occasional pictures are very well drawn and I especially like that there is a map at the front of the book so that readers less acquainted with the layout of ancient Greece can track the heroes’ journey. The book is a fun introduction to Greek mythology. I would wholeheartedly recommend this book.

The Eye of Zeus: Legends of Olympus by Alane Adams is the story of twelve-year-old Phoebe Katz, a foster kid who was abandoned as a baby and has been in care her entire life. Strange stuff happens around her and she soon learns that there is a reason for that. She is the daughter of Zeus, the ancient Greek god, and she was abandoned because of a prophecy that says she will destroy Olympus. The story moves at a good pace and I enjoyed reading about the quest Phoebe and her friends are sent on. I thought it was a little unusual, but clever to have the person Phoebe must save as her social worker, but he is special to her because he was the one who found her. The story is well written and enjoyable and there is plenty to keep you entertained. Anyone who loves mythology will enjoy it.

Alane Adams has written an entertaining story with The Eye of Zeus: Legends of Olympus. Phoebe is a great character and I really enjoyed reading her story. She's tough and knows how to handle herself. The dialogue was good and fitted the story. Phoebe is believable as a twelve-year-old girl. There is an obvious comparison to the Percy Jackson series, but I really liked this story and the female protagonist. I think it would appeal to fantasy fans aged maybe 10-14. I would definitely recommend it and I think it could do well on the market.