Rachel Van Dyken's Immortal Sun is a captivating blend of mythology, suspense, and romance that takes readers on a thrilling journey through a world where the lines between gods, demons, and humans blur. The novel's premise is intriguing, setting the stage for a story that is both fantastical and deeply personal. At its core, Immortal Sun is about trust, betrayal, and the relentless pursuit of truth in a world where nothing is as it seems.

The protagonist's journey is immediately engaging. Her mission to beat Cyrus at his own game and find her missing twin brother is fraught with tension and uncertainty. The stakes are high, and Van Dyken masterfully crafts a narrative that keeps readers on edge. The protagonist's initial trust in Cyrus, despite the red flags, is a relatable flaw that adds depth to her character. Her realization of his deceit and the subsequent feeling of being trapped until the eclipse creates a sense of urgency that propels the story forward.

One of the novel's standout features is its rich tapestry of mythology. Van Dyken weaves together elements from various mythological traditions, creating a world that is both familiar and refreshingly unique. The presence of fallen angels, demons, and gods like Anubis adds layers of complexity to the narrative. This blending of mythologies raises intriguing questions about power, sacrifice, and destiny, which are central themes throughout the book.

The character of Cyrus is particularly compelling. As the antagonist, he is both charming and menacing, embodying the duality that is a recurring motif in the novel. His motivations are shrouded in mystery, and his interactions with the protagonist are charged with tension. Van Dyken skillfully develops Cyrus as a character who is not purely evil but rather driven by his own set of beliefs and goals. This complexity makes him a fascinating foil to the protagonist.

In contrast, the protagonist's interactions with Anubis offer a glimmer of hope amidst the darkness. Anubis, though associated with death, is portrayed as a more nuanced character who may hold the key to the protagonist's survival. This dynamic adds an interesting layer to the story, as the protagonist must navigate her relationships with both Cyrus and Anubis to uncover the truth and find a way to save herself.

Van Dyken's writing style is both engaging and evocative. Her descriptions of the world and its inhabitants are vivid, painting a picture of a universe that is as beautiful as it is terrifying. The setting of the bar called Styx is particularly memorable, serving as a microcosm of the larger world where the protagonist finds herself trapped. The bar's name, a nod to the river in Greek mythology, underscores the novel's themes of transition and the boundary between life and death.

While Immortal Sun is a standalone novel, it shares thematic similarities with other works in the fantasy and mythology genres. Fans of Neil Gaiman's American Gods or Rick Riordan's Percy Jackson series will likely appreciate Van Dyken's imaginative world-building and her exploration of mythological themes. However, Van Dyken's novel distinguishes itself with its focus on personal stakes and the protagonist's internal struggle, making it a deeply emotional and character-driven story.

Overall, Immortal Sun is a compelling read that will appeal to fans of fantasy, mythology, and romance. Rachel Van Dyken has crafted a story that is both thrilling and thought-provoking, with characters that linger in the mind long after the final page is turned. The novel's exploration of trust, sacrifice, and the search for truth resonates on multiple levels, making it a standout addition to the genre.

In conclusion, Immortal Sun is a testament to Rachel Van Dyken's skill as a storyteller. Her ability to blend mythology with a gripping narrative and well-developed characters results in a novel that is both entertaining and meaningful. For readers seeking a story that challenges perceptions and delves into the complexities of human nature, Immortal Sun is a must-read.