Thief of Hades (edition 2000)

Set in the Greek mythological Underworld, L.E. Henderson's Thief of Hades will transport you to a fascinating realm of deities, damnation, lost souls, and other unexpected creatures. In this novel Henderson succeeds in creating the perfect fusion of modern fantasy and Greek mythology, permeated with classic fantastical elements [i.e. immortality, illusion, telekinesis, levitation, etc.] yet always remaining true to the mythological characters' traditional identities and surroundings.

The author's wonderful descriptions of different aspects of the Underworld and its inhabitants will make you feel as if you are traveling right alongside Charon, the protagonist, as he embarks on the arduous quest of freeing his daughter from eternal punishment.

The writing style, pacing, plot, and descriptiveness are excellent, so much so that no previous knowledge of Greek mythology is necessary to enjoy the story. In fact, if you know nothing at all of the mythology this novel can serve as a nice introductory course.

Add to all of this the author's pleasant and cleverly subtle humor and you get an entertaining and informative adventure I would highly recommend to anyone who likes good fiction! ( )