Normandie Alleman

In the 21st century, the Greek Gods of Olympus have returned to earth in order to rule and create some semblance of peace, but are leaning closer toward control. Everything is now high-tech and digital. Marriages are now arranged among the humans, who are considered little better than chattel, and love is no longer a necessity for most couples.
Psyche enters into an arranged marriage with a man she’s never met in order to pay off her father’s gambling debts. She’s a celebrity and longs for the simple life, which she finds in the arms of her sensual, secretive, and faceless husband Q.
I liked Psyche for the most part, but I didn’t understand why she never asked Q why she couldn’t see his face. She accepted his unusual rules very easily. Since the story is told only from her POV, I didn’t connect well with Q. Even though he later explains his reasons for his deception, Psyche is still made out to be the person in the wrong, not him.
I’m very familiar with the Psyche and Cupid myth, having read it often as a child, and I found this modern retelling interesting and fun. Other than a few minor typos, this novella is well written and fast-paced. I would like to read more stories by Ms. Alleman, especially the ones about Greek myths retold.
4 Stars… (more)

Nick and Eden again after more than a decade. Both are adults now but the attraction of their teen years is still there. After the deaths of their fathers, Nick's family became reality TV stars. Eden's mother took her back to Texas. Nick became a basketball star while Eden became a doctor who now lives on the profits of a medical device she invented. As Nick and Eden grow closer, will their families accept their love? What happens when Eden becomes pregnant and Nick is traded? Will it work out for them?

I enjoyed this story. I liked Eden and Nick. His mother was a piece of work who only looked out for her reality show. I liked when Nick stood up to her. I also liked his sister Dynassy who knows what her mother is like, accepts her, but does what she wants. I felt bad for Eden's insecurity over Nick because of her parents and Nick's parents. I was glad when Eden's mother told her the truth about the past so she could be with Nick without worrying he was like their fathers.

I look forward to the rest of the series.… (more)