Dead of Spring: A Hades and Persephone Retelling by Colette Rhodes follows the classic myth of Hades and Persephone with a twist. The story revolves around Kore, tired of her mother's controlling plans for her future, who is kidnapped by Hades, the God of the Underworld, in an attempt to bring her happiness. As Kore resists, Hades' love for her grows, leading to a slow-burning romance filled with emotional depth and steamy scenes. The book explores themes of freedom, growth, and love as the characters navigate their evolving relationship in the underworld.

The author, Colette Rhodes, stays true to the source material while infusing the characters with life, depth, and personality. The retelling captures the essence of the Hades and Persephone myth, adding color to enhance the romance and keep readers engaged from beginning to end. With dual points of view, the story allows readers to understand the perspectives of both main characters as they navigate the challenges of their relationship.

Characters:

Characters are well-developed with distinct personalities, showcasing growth and depth throughout the narrative.

Writing/Prose:

The writing is characterized by humor, realism, and a dual perspective that enriches character development.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot closely mirrors the original myth, focusing on Kore's struggles with her mother and the evolving relationship with Hades.

Setting:

The setting is rooted in Ancient Greece, creating a rich backdrop for the mythological themes.

Pacing:

Pacing varies, with some rushed moments contrasted by slower emotional developments in the romance.

Notes:

Kore's mother wants her to stay a maiden forever and control her future.

Hades, the God of the Underworld, has loved Kore for a long time.

Hades decides to kidnap Kore because he believes she will be happier with him.

The story features a slow-burn romance with lots of physical chemistry between Kore and Hades.

The author adds humor and realism to the myth, making it relatable and engaging.

Hades is described as a 'cinnamon roll' character, sweet and nurturing to Kore.

Kore finds her independence and develops a stronger sense of self in the Underworld.

The story includes interesting side characters who provide comic relief.

The writing style matches the classic myth while giving characters depth.

Readers find the emotional development of the relationship satisfying, despite some wanting more build-up.

Has Romance?

The story features a prominent romantic arc, characterized by its strong emotional and physical chemistry.

implied steam level

From The Publisher:

For Kore's entire life, her mother only ever wanted two things from her:

Swear an oath of virginity (to protect her from marriage)

Never show the world how much power she really possessed (to protect her from marriage)

Despite Demeter's attempts to keep Kore as far away from Olympus and its capricious gods who might want her for their own, there was nothing in this world or any other that could have kept Kore hidden from Hades.

As for Kore, the more time she spends in the underworld, the more she realizes how alone and misunderstood its ruler truly is.

With her heart and all of humanity on the line, will Kore embrace her former life as The Maiden, or a future as the Bringer of Destruction?

Dead of Spring is a standalone Hades and Persephone retelling suitable for readers aged 18+

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Dead of Spring: A Hades and Persephone Retelling

Colette Rhodes