Book Title: Gods Behaving Badly
Author: Marie Phillips
Publisher: Random House Canada
# of Pages: 277
Released: December 4^th, 2007
ISBN: 978-0-307-35592-8 

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Reviewed By:  Meghan Masterson (Calgary Correspondent - Canada)

Imagine that the once-worshipped Greek gods existed today, living in a run-down house in London, trying to fit in with everyone else by finding modern jobs, and feeling terribly bored by living such dreary mortal lives, while carrying the bitter knowledge that they are superior beings, yet it does not seem to matter anymore.

This is the foundation of Marie Phillips' imaginative and witty novel. The book tells the story of the gods of Olympus struggling to make ends meet in modern day London, and coping with the waning of their powers, once invincible and now limited. Most of the gods try to get along by finding jobs that suit their powers-Artemis is a dog walker, Aphrodite a phone-sex worker, Apollo a TV psychic, and Dionysus is the owner of a rowdy nightclub. When a girl called Alice comes into their lives when she is hired on as the new house cleaner, her presence irrevocably changes their lives.

Unpretentious and engaging, Gods Behaving Badly is funny, sometimes bawdy, and full of bright and entertaining dialogue. Phillips clearly has an excellent knowledge of Greek mythology, and any readers who have read up on the subject will be pleased to hear that the gods are just as petty and selfish as they often are in the old legends, constantly quarreling and sniping at each other. In short, the gods do, in fact, behave badly. Phillips writes clearly and each of the gods is depicted with vivid and unique personalities, which are consistent with ancient mythology, but also freshened with a touch of modernity. The main human characters, Alice and Neil, are lovable in their shyness and loyalty, as well as their initial naïveté and later, their willingness to believe.

I speak of innocence because it is amusing (and meant to be so) that Alice works for a house full of stunningly beautiful people who all have the names of the Greek gods, and never eat, and does not really pause to question why her employers are so different and strange. As Hermes notes ironically "weren't the names a dead giveaway?"  

This book is full of humorous dialogue and plot twists, complete with double-crossing and personal agendas. There are also comical situations, such as her portrayal of Eros as a Christian, struggling to convert the rest of his divine relatives. Phillips' writing is effervescent and her story is gripping, making Gods Behaving Badly the perfect book to curl up with in the sunshine. Indulge in a refreshing summery drink, perhaps iced tea, to further enhance the treat that is Gods Behaving Badly. Don't forget the garnish.