Godly Heathens is one of my new favorites of 2023. I was completely blown away! I have really enjoyed H.E. Edgmon’s previous work, but this felt like it was on a different level. Gem is a nonbinary Seminole teen living in a small town in Georgia. Not much changes here, until the day Willa Mae arrives. High school is hard enough without someone showing up to tell you that you’re actually a god with powerful magic. It soon becomes clear that Willa Mae isn’t lying and Gem will have to try and reconnect with their memories and magic in order to save themself from people who blame them for their actions in previous lives. 

Godly Heathens is an action-packed adventure that is impossible to put down! Gem is such a morally gray character who is trying to do their best in an impossible situation. The LGBTQ+ representation is excellent (especially nonbinary rep)! I also really appreciated the mental health rep and the realizations Gem has about their mental health. I loved the slow reveal of the story behind the gods and Gem's past lives. The flashbacks were very well-done. Edgmon's writing is funny, mindful of grief and trauma, and shows a way towards hope. The characters feel so tangible and genuine. I particularly loved Willa Mae and Enzo!! The connections between them all are solidified while battling enemies and trying to use magic that comes with a price. The ending was a brutal cliffhanger, needless to say I can’t wait to read the sequel!! 

Readers who enjoy contemporary fantasy, queer found family, morally gray characters, witty banter, and action-packed scenes will love this book. 

Thank you so much to H.E. Edgmon, Wednesday Books, and Netgalley for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.