Alexander, Rachel

Wow. Just wow! I have loved the myth of Hades and Persephone for as long as I remember, and this book does not disappoint the very least! The author remains faithful to her source material, while at the same time adding several fantastically creative twists to the myths. I found her version of the Sisyphus myth to be especially brilliant.

Normally, I'm not a fan of the version of the Persephone myth which has her being promised to Hades by Zeus (or Poseidon, in the couple of versions where show more Poseidon is her father instead of Zeus) at birth. It's never felt right for me for babies to be promised in marriage, however, Ms. Alexander pulls this off with surprising tact, and there is a very good story behind this promise, which makes the story work so well.

And what about the Hades/Persephone dynamics? Very well-executed here, as well. The entire book has been thought out well, and she put in some fascinating details/aspects about the Underworld that made it feel much more real. Her research, and twists, are spot-on.

And the erotic scenes between our dynamic duo... mmm. Definitely swoon-worthy. I've read too many erotica scenes with cheesy descriptions and metaphors, but Ms. Alexander writes such scenes in such a steamy yet tasteful way that leaves the reader wishing that they were Persephone (or Hades) Nom nom nom.

I await with bated breath for the sequel. show less

This was kind of amazing and unexpected! This retelling really focuses on The Underworld and how the rulership of it is different from the other realms. In The Underworld, the King and Queen rule equally. Hades & Persephone are fated to be with one another and how that is realized is beautiful.

What is unique to this story is how innocent both Hades and Persephone are - tho Hades has been alive for eons he has spent his life building up his land for his queen. ALSO Prior to his courtship show more with Persephone, Hades was celibate - in all the ways. Once he accepted the role of King of the Underworld and that Demeter's daughter would come to be his queen, he chose to save himself for his future queen. There is some angst due to the couple not having the tools to figure out how to communicate with one another about their fears.

I would have liked more Thanatos bc he was hilarious. I really enjoyed Nyx and Hecate's roles as well. show less

Greek mythology has been on my mind lately, and Hades and Persephone are two of my favorites. I chose this book because it seemed like the author included some lesser known aspects of the myths and didn't just use some names and a few major events and then run wild with the rest. (Obviously this isn't a dry, historical retelling or anything, =D but there wasn't that much that flew in the face of canon either). There were some parts that it might have been better without, but overall it was show more fun and easy to read. Definitely not for the prudish. show less

**I received this book in a GoodReads giveaway in exchange for an honest review.**

I love the story of Hades and Persephone, so when I won this I couldn't be happier. I should tell you my only experience with erotica was Fifty Shades of Grey and I -hated- it, but this book, this book I was pleasantly surprised. I actually found myself enjoying the tale woven within this book and I loved the characters. I will for sure look into getting book two because now I need to know how this ends! I show more would recommend this book. 4.5 out of 5 stars. show less