'By Pain of Death' by Suzanne Clay is a novella that offers a unique perspective on the myth of Hades and Persephone. The story follows Hades, burdened by his responsibilities and the pain he carries, as he meets Seph, a character who is struggling to meet expectations and finds solace in their unlikely friendship turned romantic relationship. Clay's writing style is praised for its poetic and simplistic nature, creating a vivid and emotional landscape that delves into themes of love, chronic pain, and transness.

Characters:

The characters are well-developed, showcasing Hades as burdened yet caring and Seph as a relatable figure facing societal pressures.

Writing/Prose:

The writing combines poetic elements with simplicity, creating a fluid reading experience rich in detail and emotional depth.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative uniquely reinterprets a classic myth, centering on a deep emotional relationship between its characters, while weaving in personal struggles like chronic pain and societal expectations.

Setting:

The setting draws from Greek mythology, providing a rich backdrop that enhances the characters' emotional journeys.

Pacing:

The pacing is brisk yet manages to convey a wealth of emotional experiences within its short format.

Notes:

The novella features a queer retelling of the Hades and Persephone myth.

The character Persephone is reimagined as a trans man named Seph.

It explores themes of chronic pain and disability representation.

Hades is portrayed as overworked and stoic due to new souls flooding into the Underworld.

The relationship between Hades and Seph develops from friendship to romance.

The story focuses on emotional acceptance and support between the main characters.

It is praised for its poetic and fluid writing style.

The novella is approximately 40 pages long, making it a quick read.

Readers appreciate the positive portrayal of trans identity without misgendering.

Many readers found the book relatable, especially those with chronic health issues.

The story is described as cozy and emotional, with low angst levels.

It includes a heartfelt exploration of love and personal acceptance.

Some readers found the metaphors and character development well-executed.

By Pain of Death blends mythology with a fresh, modern twist.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Triggers may include chronic pain, mental health issues, and possible themes of transphobia in some contexts.

Has Romance?

The book contains a high level of romance, focusing on the evolving relationship between the main characters.

implied steam level

From The Publisher:

Can the winter in his heart be thawed?

Hades has lost track of the passage of time beyond sorting the deceased into their eternal homes. With each arrival of another soul, the agony they experienced in their final moments seeps into his ichor. It is a painful, isolated existence within Hades's palace, but far safer than returning to the Underworld beyond its doors.

Hades's predictable days are interrupted by the arrival of Hermes with a stranger of a deity that Hades can barely recall. When the god introduces himself as Seph and explains that he needs a safe place where his life-entwined mother can't follow, Hades is forced to confront the loneliness that dwells deep within him-and his personal belief that he deserves little more than death as well.

By Pain of Death is a 9,500-word low heat M/M retelling of the Hades and Persephone myth with a disabled protagonist and a trans man love interest.

This book is intended only for adult audiences. Content notes may be found in the book's front matter and on the author's website.

Reader Stats (3):

Want To Read (2)
Not Interested (1)

What can you read after
By Pain of Death?

Meet New Books is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a way for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to products and services on amazon.com and its subsidiaries.
When you click the Amazon link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commision, at no cost to you.

By Pain of Death

Suzanne Clay