Don't you just love it when you find a new author? Eve is an up-and-coming author and I adored this read about Persephone and Hades.
Admittedly, mythology is not something I'm super knowledgeable about. I LOVED Disney's Hercules as a kid, but I never really delved into the stories behind the characters. So, I didn't really know what to expect. A quick Google search showed kidnap and intrigue, oh my!
Eve flipped that story on its ear and I'm here for it.
She kept the names the same in the retelling and I found that refreshing. My brain was able to enjoy the read rather than doing what it does and "go to work" guessing which character is who and where the parallels to the original are.
In this story, Eve brought Persephone to life as a florist in the mortal realm. Flaws and all, it was fun to see a "new adult" finding her way in life, in business, around her mother, and in pursuit of the man she wanted to be with.
Hades is older, wiser, and a "cool guy" with self-control in spades. He's devoted to the duties of his realm and the solitude it brings. Though, he's not alone, really. His companions in the Underworld aren't the drab being I had imagined to find. Each character is distinct and brings something awesome to the story. You'll love Hecate and Cerberus for sure!
I swooned during the first meeting of the main characters and I literally couldn't wait for the next scene with Cerberus.
The flow and timing were excellent. The action was balanced with the quiet moments of blooming romance, pep talks from mentors, and comedic timing from mortal friends. I was lost in this story. So, so good. I was literally holding my gut when one character realized they'd been betrayed and deceived. I can't spoil it for you, but there is Cerberus. Did I mention him? I might wish he was my pet watchdog...
This cozy story is a wonderful read. A note for moms that don't have time for pre-reading every single thing: the gods of mythology are known for their revelry. There are two brief mentions (not direct descriptions) of such things alluded to. Personally, they were so brief (and were there for a purpose) that I wouldn't withhold this story from my teenager. He'd probably gloss over them anyway :D
You'll adore this story and I'm already looking forward to the second installment of this duology in the fall. Happy reading!
