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Greek God #2
Sweet Hell
Dionysus, Greek god of wine and theater, is the world’s original playboy. But lately, he has been restless, moody, and he knows something is wrong. His carefree and bacchanal lifestyle is starting to feel like one long string of meaningless, sexual escapades. Even worse, he is suddenly aroused by the idea of marriage. And to top it all off, Josie Marino, the mouthy, disheveled, and eternally annoying woman who serves him coffee at the local bakery, sets him on fire.
Josie, a Toronto baker of Italian heritage, is not looking for love or lust. Especially not with Dionysus Iros, the most aggravating, demanding customer she'd ever had to serve. With his rippling muscles and sexy, knowing eyes, he's obviously trouble with a capital T. Unfortunately, he's also the star of her every X-rated dream. She’s known players like Dionysus before, and one of them almost got the better of her. Josie determines she will not fall for his considerable physical charms, come hell or high water.
But Dionysus turns strangely protective when a sinister character arrives at Josie's bakery, and they can no longer deny their unwanted feelings for one another. They are forced to embark on a bizarre, sexually-charged journey to hell itself, which threatens to either change them for the better, or destroy them.
Josie, a Toronto baker of Italian heritage, is not looking for love or lust. Especially not with Dionysus Iros, the most aggravating, demanding customer she'd ever had to serve. With his rippling muscles and sexy, knowing eyes, he's obviously trouble with a capital T. Unfortunately, he's also the star of her every X-rated dream. She’s known players like Dionysus before, and one of them almost got the better of her. Josie determines she will not fall for his considerable physical charms, come hell or high water.
But Dionysus turns strangely protective when a sinister character arrives at Josie's bakery, and they can no longer deny their unwanted feelings for one another. They are forced to embark on a bizarre, sexually-charged journey to hell itself, which threatens to either change them for the better, or destroy them.
140 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 16, 2012
8 people are currently reading
902 people want to read
About the author
Rosanna Leo
40 books832 followersRosanna Leo writes contemporary and paranormal romance. Her novel A Reluctant Attraction, Handymen 3, is one of Oprah Daily's 50 of 2021's Most Anticipated Romance Novels. Follow her on Bookbub here: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/rosan...
From Toronto, Canada, Rosanna occupies a house in the suburbs with her husband. A mother to two grown sons, she spends much of her time wondering where all her time went. A great lover of felines, she enjoys being chased around the house by her cat, Lucy. When not writing, Rosanna works for her local library, where she is busy laying the groundwork to become a library ghost one day.
Connect with her at www.rosannaleoauthor.wordpress.com.
From Toronto, Canada, Rosanna occupies a house in the suburbs with her husband. A mother to two grown sons, she spends much of her time wondering where all her time went. A great lover of felines, she enjoys being chased around the house by her cat, Lucy. When not writing, Rosanna works for her local library, where she is busy laying the groundwork to become a library ghost one day.
Connect with her at www.rosannaleoauthor.wordpress.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
December 21, 2012
Five shinning stars for this one!!!
What can I say! I loved this book! and him. It was funny! Sweet and so adventurous in Hades's Hell. Oh my! It had an AMAZING humor, I couldn't stop laughing and laughing and oh you can't help adoring him.
I met Dionysus, first in For the Love of a God, he was a Greek god of wine and theater, and the world’s original playboy. And Eryx's cousin.
But when he met Josie, mouthy, Toronto baker of Italian heritage (you can't help but love her). He became restless, edgy but found his woman, the first woman who ever walked away from him :D. It was funny seeing both of them denying their attraction.
But, she is one helluva girl. Perfect, strong for Dionysus. Their journey through Hell was so sweet, especially him. Meeting Hades, whoa! Stunned (Laughs)
The ending again *tears* .... it was beauti-ful! I understand why, so happy to see them happy.. You did an awesome job again, Rosanna. [Big hearts]
September 2, 2012
Well, first of all, I'm still hungry for baked goods and coffee after reading this book. The author does a very good job of using words that create imagery in the bakery where about half the book takes place. As a glutton... I appreciate this. :)
Now on to the really important stuff--the sex is hot, Dionysis is hot, and I really found myself liking the character Hades who appears at the end of the book to help Josie get her man back.
There is lead-up to Dionysis and Josie's first time which I love. I'm more of a sexual tension girl than anything else, so lead-up is good for me. I like Dionysis' attitude and how completely oblivious he is about his feelings for Josie. But, why wouldn't he be? He's never been in love in the thousands of years he's been alive. Josie is also, of course, attracted to him but he's a womanizer and insults her at times so she's able to keep herself at bay for awhile.
But, through certains events that throw Josie into harms way, Dionysis begins to soften and allow himself to verbally acknowledge his feelings. The pair has to go to Hades to find a woman or else Josie will be killed and worse. Its a horrible place where Josie is constantly being mind-f***ed, but thankfully, its also a place with lots and lots of sexual temptations so Dionysis and Josie get it on a lot.
I won't spoil the ending except to say, as I have told the author before,:) that I loved Hades, who appears at the end as a minor character. He's mentioned throughout the book, but we only see him for a second. *sigh* I really hope he gets his own story later.
Now on to the really important stuff--the sex is hot, Dionysis is hot, and I really found myself liking the character Hades who appears at the end of the book to help Josie get her man back.
There is lead-up to Dionysis and Josie's first time which I love. I'm more of a sexual tension girl than anything else, so lead-up is good for me. I like Dionysis' attitude and how completely oblivious he is about his feelings for Josie. But, why wouldn't he be? He's never been in love in the thousands of years he's been alive. Josie is also, of course, attracted to him but he's a womanizer and insults her at times so she's able to keep herself at bay for awhile.
But, through certains events that throw Josie into harms way, Dionysis begins to soften and allow himself to verbally acknowledge his feelings. The pair has to go to Hades to find a woman or else Josie will be killed and worse. Its a horrible place where Josie is constantly being mind-f***ed, but thankfully, its also a place with lots and lots of sexual temptations so Dionysis and Josie get it on a lot.
I won't spoil the ending except to say, as I have told the author before,:) that I loved Hades, who appears at the end as a minor character. He's mentioned throughout the book, but we only see him for a second. *sigh* I really hope he gets his own story later.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 22, 2012
I loved this story! Another amazing tale by Rosanna Leo. Josie and Dionysus were so well depicted with real emotions. The imagery of Hell was quite frightening and shiver-worthy. But, the love revealed between Josie and Dionysus while they traversed Hell was so sweet and innocent in its own unique way. And Dionysus' sacrifice for Josie *sob*.....simply wonderful!.
April 28, 2013
I feel like I should say so much about this, but I just don't have many words beyond, "I loved this!" It was so sweet. I love Dionysus and Josie so much and had such a wonderful time watching their love grow. The depictions of the different layers of Hades were so well done, and I was holding my breath at the end even though I knew Rosanna Leo wouldn't be so cruel to me!
February 17, 2013
Oh Sweet Hell, I’m in love…. With Dionysus. The son of Zeus, the God of fertility and wine, a patron of the arts… and one fiiiiine man. When this story starts he is a playboy, and a cocky one at that. Then one step into one bakery and his life forever more has changed. See, at this bakery is Josie Marino, coffee and baker extraordinaire. And even though she is typically not his type, he is very soon finding himself enthralled with her – and she with him. Now if we can get them both to realize it, eh?
“He looked up at her. His cock soared, doing a rowdy dance of happiness.”
Now that’s a greeting I can really get on board with! She’s got him tongue tied and twisted, something that doesn’t happen to gods too often!
Rosanna Leo has managed to write a romance that is funny and interesting, dramatic and tender. Her sense of humor comes through in spades, and I was in complete joy. How could you not be with lines like:
“By the great hairy balls of Zeus! What the fuck was going on?”
Best.Line.Ever. I really must find a way to use this line in every day conversation. Even funnier since Dionysus is the son of Zeus ;)
Dionysus and Josie were both terrific characters, easily likeable and easy to care for. Dionysus comes to the bakery for months, coaching Josie on the perfect cup of coffee, never making a move on her. But meanwhile they are falling for each other. I loved it! At times he was positively an ass to Josie, pretty much the equivalent of a school yard boy picking on a girl cause in reality he liked her.
But then Dionysus’ past catches up with him, and he must make a dangerous trip. But Josie isn’t about to let him out of her sight just yet.
Josie and Dionysus’ adventure of tribulations is vastly unlike any other. Infused with Rosanna’s great sense of humor, their journey covers everything; fear, hate, love, sadness, joy, laughter, arousal, comfort, and even more. This isn’t just another love story. There is great heart. And seriously, a first kiss that has got me thinking I might start a first kiss rating on my site. Dionysus and Josie would get a 5!
“He looked up at her. His cock soared, doing a rowdy dance of happiness.”
Now that’s a greeting I can really get on board with! She’s got him tongue tied and twisted, something that doesn’t happen to gods too often!
Rosanna Leo has managed to write a romance that is funny and interesting, dramatic and tender. Her sense of humor comes through in spades, and I was in complete joy. How could you not be with lines like:
“By the great hairy balls of Zeus! What the fuck was going on?”
Best.Line.Ever. I really must find a way to use this line in every day conversation. Even funnier since Dionysus is the son of Zeus ;)
Dionysus and Josie were both terrific characters, easily likeable and easy to care for. Dionysus comes to the bakery for months, coaching Josie on the perfect cup of coffee, never making a move on her. But meanwhile they are falling for each other. I loved it! At times he was positively an ass to Josie, pretty much the equivalent of a school yard boy picking on a girl cause in reality he liked her.
But then Dionysus’ past catches up with him, and he must make a dangerous trip. But Josie isn’t about to let him out of her sight just yet.
Josie and Dionysus’ adventure of tribulations is vastly unlike any other. Infused with Rosanna’s great sense of humor, their journey covers everything; fear, hate, love, sadness, joy, laughter, arousal, comfort, and even more. This isn’t just another love story. There is great heart. And seriously, a first kiss that has got me thinking I might start a first kiss rating on my site. Dionysus and Josie would get a 5!
March 25, 2014
Holy cow this book was fantastic. I loved how much Dionysus truly cared for Josie. It was super funny to watch as Dionysus came to realize that he was falling in love with someone. He never felt anything like it before and it was shocking for him to realize that he was willing to go to crazy extents to protect this unruly girl.
Dionysus is the fun loving god of wine and quickly became the god of three-somes. He was super horny all the time and it never failed to show him a good time. He loves his crazy life, no responsibilities, no rules, and all the women he could ever want.
Josie is a strong-willed, smart-assed, wise-cracking girl that wont put up with Dionysus's bull shit. He annoyed the crap out of her with the way he would bring those bimbos he was so fond of and flaunt them. Always coming in with a different girl. When he started standing in front of the store at 5 A.M. every morning, she found it annoying and yet endearing all at the same time. She hated to admit it but she was falling for this unbecoming man.
But when trouble finds her, Josie and Dionysus find themselves forced to take a journey into Hell to reclaim what was once lost to bring an end to the mayhem. But this journey will take a tole on both of them that they cant even begin to imagine. And both are willing to go to impossible lengths to protect each other.
The story was fantastic and moved at a perfect pace. You got plenty of time to get to know the characters and really connect with them. Many romance books that I have read leave me feeling like I missed the "click" where these two characters begin to fall for each other and really connect. But this one was different, I felt the connection the second that it happend. It was a nice change and added to the romance. 5/5 stars!!!
Dionysus is the fun loving god of wine and quickly became the god of three-somes. He was super horny all the time and it never failed to show him a good time. He loves his crazy life, no responsibilities, no rules, and all the women he could ever want.
Josie is a strong-willed, smart-assed, wise-cracking girl that wont put up with Dionysus's bull shit. He annoyed the crap out of her with the way he would bring those bimbos he was so fond of and flaunt them. Always coming in with a different girl. When he started standing in front of the store at 5 A.M. every morning, she found it annoying and yet endearing all at the same time. She hated to admit it but she was falling for this unbecoming man.
But when trouble finds her, Josie and Dionysus find themselves forced to take a journey into Hell to reclaim what was once lost to bring an end to the mayhem. But this journey will take a tole on both of them that they cant even begin to imagine. And both are willing to go to impossible lengths to protect each other.
The story was fantastic and moved at a perfect pace. You got plenty of time to get to know the characters and really connect with them. Many romance books that I have read leave me feeling like I missed the "click" where these two characters begin to fall for each other and really connect. But this one was different, I felt the connection the second that it happend. It was a nice change and added to the romance. 5/5 stars!!!
November 16, 2012
Closely following the premise of For the Love of a God, Rosanna Leo has created another winner in Toronto with this story that features Dionysis and the smart-mouthed bakery clerk, Josie. While this is set as the second in a series – and the characters were introduced in the first book, they do stand alone. Although, you will want to read them both – they are that good.
Toronto is certainly a place to consider relocating to if on any given day one of the exquisitely detailed, humorous and witty characters are prone to walking the streets. And, a queue from the real world – when a playboy is tiring of his debauched life after thousands of years, he throws himself into a relationship as completely as he dives into a bottle of wine. Of course, no path is smooth and bump free, and the sarcasm and snark that permeate the conversations will have you laughing out loud at the wittily turned phrases.
Featuring a woman who is not model-beautiful and vapid, but carrying a core strength and sense of what she wants, the pairing of a rather spoiled and self-centered beautiful god is loaded with comic potential, and the author has not failed to miss this opportunity. And yet, the attraction between the two, and the steam created when they actually do act on that attraction will have you contemplating apartment listings in the Yonge or Bayfront areas.
I received an eBook copy from author for purpose of honest review via the Jeep Diva. I was not compensated for this review, and all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Toronto is certainly a place to consider relocating to if on any given day one of the exquisitely detailed, humorous and witty characters are prone to walking the streets. And, a queue from the real world – when a playboy is tiring of his debauched life after thousands of years, he throws himself into a relationship as completely as he dives into a bottle of wine. Of course, no path is smooth and bump free, and the sarcasm and snark that permeate the conversations will have you laughing out loud at the wittily turned phrases.
Featuring a woman who is not model-beautiful and vapid, but carrying a core strength and sense of what she wants, the pairing of a rather spoiled and self-centered beautiful god is loaded with comic potential, and the author has not failed to miss this opportunity. And yet, the attraction between the two, and the steam created when they actually do act on that attraction will have you contemplating apartment listings in the Yonge or Bayfront areas.
I received an eBook copy from author for purpose of honest review via the Jeep Diva. I was not compensated for this review, and all conclusions are my own responsibility.
September 13, 2012
Another great book! I loved Dionysus! I had to laugh at his problem and how horrified he was about it! So funny and his choice of swears had me laughing as well. I really liked Josis as well, she took things alot better then Maia did but then she didn't have much choice cause she kinda got thrown into the celestial deep end! Interesting take on Orpheous as well! I suppose with what he went through he would go off the deep end but I think Dionysus was right when he said it was still no excuse for what he did after he lost his wife. I always loved Hades and Persephone although Persephone is pretty bad in this! She maybe needs some therapy! Lol! I liked Hades though, he was cheeky at the end and I think he enjoyed winding Josie up but he did do right by her and Dionysus so he's not a bad god in my book, unlike his wife! I loved the journey through hell, it was really interesting with the different levels they went through and I have a new appreciation for the phrase 'Hell's waiting room'. I'm glad that Josie and Dionysus got their happy ending though cause they both had some pain in their past and I have a friend that went through a similar situation to Josie in the past so I really felt for her hearing her story. Great read and I can't wait (fingers crossed) for more books with the gods!
June 12, 2013
Dionysus, Greek God of Wine, is finding that he's in a slump. He decides to visit his cousin Eryx in Toronto but when he gets there a delicious smell wafts towards him. He enters an Italian bakery called Marino Brothers Bakery and blown away by vision strolling behind the counter. He becomes tongue tied something that hasn't happened before. Josie Marino works in her family but is underappreciated by her brothers. She's known guys like Dionysus Iros before but can't trust them as far as her famous canoli. Over time Dionysus begins to grow on her with his small praises. When Josie is unexpectedly locked in freezer Dionysus comes to her rescue. Mystery man claims that Dionysus is Greek God and wants him to find his wife. Will Josie believe the truth? Will Dionysus find the man's wife? Will Josie realize her feelings? Will Josie's dream be out of reach? Your answers await you in Sweet Hell.
This is second book in Greek God Series. Once again Ms. Leo isn't afraid to show the softer side of her alpha males. I love that Josie is guarded in her feelings towards Dionysus. I love that Dionysus is willing to admit that he's life isn't as perfect as he thought it was. Together, they are unstoppable pair with exacting passions. I will continue to read this author's work. I look forward to the next book in the series.
This is second book in Greek God Series. Once again Ms. Leo isn't afraid to show the softer side of her alpha males. I love that Josie is guarded in her feelings towards Dionysus. I love that Dionysus is willing to admit that he's life isn't as perfect as he thought it was. Together, they are unstoppable pair with exacting passions. I will continue to read this author's work. I look forward to the next book in the series.
January 24, 2013
A review of Sweet Hell by Rosanna Leo
Rosanna Leo is one of my favorite new authors! My preferred paranormal reads, in fact, the ones I devour, are not too dark or heavy but rather, sexy, light and allow for escapism. They're about couples that need to fight internal and external battles to come together and they always have an element of silliness in them. What's more, I love it when what I read are refreshingly new, descriptively written and contain a world that makes me admire the author's imagination.
This does that. You have a God, a slightly nerdy girl and a heck of a challenge that takes them into the depths of hell - literally. They battle each other and their inner romantic hells to ... well... that would be giving you spoilers... needless to say, lovers of authors like Kenyon, Sparks and Sands would love this.
A review by Aneesa Price - Sugary, Spicy Reads
Author and Reviewe
Rosanna Leo is one of my favorite new authors! My preferred paranormal reads, in fact, the ones I devour, are not too dark or heavy but rather, sexy, light and allow for escapism. They're about couples that need to fight internal and external battles to come together and they always have an element of silliness in them. What's more, I love it when what I read are refreshingly new, descriptively written and contain a world that makes me admire the author's imagination.
This does that. You have a God, a slightly nerdy girl and a heck of a challenge that takes them into the depths of hell - literally. They battle each other and their inner romantic hells to ... well... that would be giving you spoilers... needless to say, lovers of authors like Kenyon, Sparks and Sands would love this.
A review by Aneesa Price - Sugary, Spicy Reads
Author and Reviewe
December 4, 2012
Rosanna Leo
Sweet Hell
Dionysus, Greek god of wine and theater, is the world’s original playboy. But lately, he has been restless, moody, and he knows something is wrong. His carefree and bacchanalian lifestyle is starting to feel like one long string of meaningless sexual escapades. Even worse, he is suddenly aroused by the idea of marriage. To top it all off, Josie Marino, the mouthy, disheveled, and eternally annoying woman who serves him coffee at the local bakery, sets him on fire.
This book follows on from ‘For the Love of God’, though can be read as a standalone and not part of a series.
Well written, easy to read and the story just flows so that you completely lose yourself. Romance, adventure, Greek gods and plenty of sexual chemistry, this is a book you won’t want to put down.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Sweet Hell
Dionysus, Greek god of wine and theater, is the world’s original playboy. But lately, he has been restless, moody, and he knows something is wrong. His carefree and bacchanalian lifestyle is starting to feel like one long string of meaningless sexual escapades. Even worse, he is suddenly aroused by the idea of marriage. To top it all off, Josie Marino, the mouthy, disheveled, and eternally annoying woman who serves him coffee at the local bakery, sets him on fire.
This book follows on from ‘For the Love of God’, though can be read as a standalone and not part of a series.
Well written, easy to read and the story just flows so that you completely lose yourself. Romance, adventure, Greek gods and plenty of sexual chemistry, this is a book you won’t want to put down.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
April 25, 2013
Second book in the series and PLEASE KEEP THEM COMING. As I expressed in my previous reviews how I love Greek Gods. So this book was another amazing read. What I absolutely loved about this book was how Josie doesn't really believe a Greek God could love her due to a past bad experience and how at every point H tries to prove her how much he does. The scenes described in Hades were so well described I could picture my self on this journey. Not that I want to ever be in such a sick place. The h's acceptance of H being a Greek God seemed a lil unrealistic because tbh I would shit in my pants. She seemed a lil too accepting. BUT accepting his love seemed unrealistic?! Giving up your immortality for a mortal lover was a LIL REPETITIVE. But it was still cute and had me a little teary. JUST A LITTLE. Overall a great read.
September 19, 2012
My, oh my! If I'd known Greek gods frequented Toronto bakery shops, I would have given up a college education and American Flag for pastries and a Canadian passport long ago. It made my day to see Dionysus, a god known for his excess and multitude of orgies, brought down my a tiny Italian baker with an attitude. His total confusion over his "affliction" since meeting Josie was too much. She thinks he's too full of himself. He thinks she's got a personal hygiene problem! These two are perfect for each other.
Even with the sinus infection from hell I could not put this down. This was my first read by this author but it sure won't be my last.
Even with the sinus infection from hell I could not put this down. This was my first read by this author but it sure won't be my last.
July 11, 2013
A sweet frothy latte with deliciously dark depths.
This is my second book in Rosanna Leo's Greek Gods series and I liked this one as much, if not more, than the first. The heroine, Josie, is feisty and very easy to identify with. Dionysus, her reluctant suitor is the player with a deep-seated yearning to settle down. But the character who stole the show must surely be the Greek God's 'very big, immortal penis,' which takes on a life of its own. Very funny and irreverent, highly enjoyable, easy vacation read. The adventures through Hades brought me right back to my days of Classical studies. Looking forward to reading the next one.
This is my second book in Rosanna Leo's Greek Gods series and I liked this one as much, if not more, than the first. The heroine, Josie, is feisty and very easy to identify with. Dionysus, her reluctant suitor is the player with a deep-seated yearning to settle down. But the character who stole the show must surely be the Greek God's 'very big, immortal penis,' which takes on a life of its own. Very funny and irreverent, highly enjoyable, easy vacation read. The adventures through Hades brought me right back to my days of Classical studies. Looking forward to reading the next one.
April 11, 2014
This was so creative! I love Greek mythology, so this was my kind of book. I appreciated how the author created her own version of Hades. WAY better than Dante. I felt so bad during that scene with Sean. But there were plenty of funny moments to offset it.
I received this from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I received this from the author in exchange for an honest review.
September 23, 2012
This review is by Musing Maddie on behalf of Ravishing Romances. Read the full version here.
This book takes place after For the Love of a God
yet is not part of a series and can be read as a stand-alone story.
How are the sex scenes?
Delicious!!! Made me feel all squirmy!! Rosanna just gets the balance right. You are so invested in the relationship between the characters that the sex is fabulous, and well worth waiting for.
How are the story lines?
Original. The story picks up well from the first book "For the Love of a God." Once again, you are deposited into a fanciful world where the Greek gods of the past amble through downtown Toronto.
Review
If you’ve read "For the Love of a God," and loved it, you need to read "Sweet Hell." Author Rosanna Leo has managed to create another story that keeps you interested, makes you laugh and tingles your toes!
The book is very similar in its plot line to the first in the series. It seems self sacrifice is a strength that these Greek gods possess despite their initial complacency and disregard for ‘mere mortals.'
The volatile dialogue between the characters adds to the enjoyment, as well as the regular, funny profanities involving Hera. “…by Hera’s rectum…” is just one example. The sex scenes definitely have you eagerly wanting more.
If you are after a light, witty read, you will enjoy "Sweet Hell." It takes you on a journey into fantasyland that is well worth the visit.
Disclaimer: No compensation received for review. ARC provided by author in exchange for honest review.
This book takes place after For the Love of a God
yet is not part of a series and can be read as a stand-alone story.
How are the sex scenes?
Delicious!!! Made me feel all squirmy!! Rosanna just gets the balance right. You are so invested in the relationship between the characters that the sex is fabulous, and well worth waiting for.
How are the story lines?
Original. The story picks up well from the first book "For the Love of a God." Once again, you are deposited into a fanciful world where the Greek gods of the past amble through downtown Toronto.
Review
If you’ve read "For the Love of a God," and loved it, you need to read "Sweet Hell." Author Rosanna Leo has managed to create another story that keeps you interested, makes you laugh and tingles your toes!
The book is very similar in its plot line to the first in the series. It seems self sacrifice is a strength that these Greek gods possess despite their initial complacency and disregard for ‘mere mortals.'
The volatile dialogue between the characters adds to the enjoyment, as well as the regular, funny profanities involving Hera. “…by Hera’s rectum…” is just one example. The sex scenes definitely have you eagerly wanting more.
If you are after a light, witty read, you will enjoy "Sweet Hell." It takes you on a journey into fantasyland that is well worth the visit.
Disclaimer: No compensation received for review. ARC provided by author in exchange for honest review.
August 11, 2014
Dionysus, the playbook of the gods, never expected to fall in love. It's inconceivable tothe god who invented the orgie. But something about Josie Marino makes him abandon this lifestyle and think of settling down...after all, she makes an awesome coffee (even if he's the most irritating customer ever in the bakery she works in).
This was another hot, quick story from Rosanna Leo. Dionysus' character growth was excellent, and I really liked him with someone like Josie, who doesn't give in easily to the Greek god's normally irresistible charms. The incorporation of the Orpheus/Eurydice myth was an neat touch. Can't wait for the next one in this series!
This was another hot, quick story from Rosanna Leo. Dionysus' character growth was excellent, and I really liked him with someone like Josie, who doesn't give in easily to the Greek god's normally irresistible charms. The incorporation of the Orpheus/Eurydice myth was an neat touch. Can't wait for the next one in this series!
December 30, 2012
I laughed. I snorted. I ached. I cried. I loved.
It is not too often that I have this much emotional reaction to a book. For some reason Josie and Dionysus hit me smack in the heart. I liked both characters and what they do for each other.
The writing is fun when it should be and serious when necessary. I found myself highlighting my favorite quotes throughout the book. I can't wait until I can get another of Rosanna's books. I guess I'm a sucker for well written continuations of the Greek myths.
It is not too often that I have this much emotional reaction to a book. For some reason Josie and Dionysus hit me smack in the heart. I liked both characters and what they do for each other.
The writing is fun when it should be and serious when necessary. I found myself highlighting my favorite quotes throughout the book. I can't wait until I can get another of Rosanna's books. I guess I'm a sucker for well written continuations of the Greek myths.
December 4, 2013
I just adored this book!!!!
Only recently found Rosanna Leo but My-Oh-My now that I have she has become one of my Must-Read authors.
I wasn't sure what to expect from Dionysus after reading
(which is brilliant by the way..... Maia just cracks me up!) He was quite the unrepentant playboy so to watch his growth in this book was really nice. I especially loved the end....no spoilers.....but (((very sweet sigh!!)))).
Only recently found Rosanna Leo but My-Oh-My now that I have she has become one of my Must-Read authors.
I wasn't sure what to expect from Dionysus after reading
(which is brilliant by the way..... Maia just cracks me up!) He was quite the unrepentant playboy so to watch his growth in this book was really nice. I especially loved the end....no spoilers.....but (((very sweet sigh!!)))). 
December 7, 2012
Yet another great read from Rosanna Leo, this is the sequel to For the Love of a God, focusing this time on Dionysus and his 'will they, won't they?' relationship. Hot, sexy and a damn good story with engaging main characters. There's also a nice catch up with Eryx and Maia from the first book which I enjoyed.
Must now go and find the other books Rosanna has written and read them too, followed by tapping my fingers impatiently until the next book about Apollo comes out in 2013!
Must now go and find the other books Rosanna has written and read them too, followed by tapping my fingers impatiently until the next book about Apollo comes out in 2013!
January 17, 2014
This was a great take on Greek mythology! Dionysus is a character that is quite untouched in the literary world. I loved this novel and the characters that made this story so enjoyable. Dionysus as a character underwent a tremendous transformation in the novel. By the end, he made every page worth reading. I would recommend this novel to anyone who loves paranormal romance. You don't have to be a mythology buff to love this story.
November 24, 2012
When you say you'd go to hell and back for someone you love, it's a figure of speech, but in this fabulous book by Rosanna Leo, it's a literal thing. Continuing with characters from For the Love of a God, this time we get to see ultimate playboy Dionysus lose his head for a woman. My favorite of her books so far!
May 22, 2013
YAY! Loved it! So glad they made it :)
February 12, 2013
This second entry in Leo's untitled series about the Greek gods and goddesses is every bit as entertaining as the first. Delving deeper into tales and concepts from Greek mythology, this one literally takes us on a journey through hell that's full of such rich imagery that any student of the Greek myths is sure to appreciate it. The tone is far from scholarly, however, and instead manages to make a journey through Hell seem like it's mostly a bit of sensual fun, though not without its terrors and tense moments to be sure.
Josie is a very real sort of character, a single woman who works hard to help keep the family bakery afloat, with little real help from her brothers who are the actual owners of the place. They take advantage of her to a shameful extent, yet she rarely complains to them about it, instead simply picking up the large amount of slack they leave to keep the place running and successful. Bit by bit, we learn various other details of her life and history, most of which highlight the fact that she's had a less than charmed life up to this point. She is certainly a very strong character, with a great many qualities that make her both entirely likeable and someone you can't help but respect, and is anything but a damsel in distress when it comes right down to it.
Dionysus is the dreamy, sensual sort of playboy that almost any woman would want, at least on some level. There's little not to like about him on the surface at least, and still plenty to like once you get past the surface even, because for all that he's led a carefree and rather shallow lifestyle for centuries and not given much thought to it, there is quite a decent core of caring underneath the party-boy exterior. After the somewhat ditsy portrayal he received in For the Love of a God, it was interesting to see that he really does have a lot of depth of character and that he's more than willing to fight for the things he truly feels passionate about, perhaps even more than Eryx was, at least at first.
The story of Dionysus and Josie's romance is interesting, and sweet with their attraction to one another being both instant and developing over an extended period of time. Still, since they never act upon the attraction in all the months they know one another, when they finally are thrown together it can't help but seem a bit forced, at least to the extent that Josie is willing to accept things as easily as she does (though to be fair, it is noted that at first she simply decides to just go with it rather than really trying to understand or accept it). Perhaps because of this feeling that they are pushed together a bit prematurely before either of them was really ready for it, their relationship through the journey that comprises the main part of the book seems a bit artificial. Yet it's hard to deny the genuine attraction between them, or the strength of the feelings for one another that eventually emerge. What starts as merely a heavy flirtation and dalliance develops into a relationship where each is literally willing to endure or go through hell for the other.
My main quibble with this book is the same one I had with the first book in the series, and involves a decision that Dionysus makes near the end which makes the alpha-male lover in me scream in denial. This is a personal preference sort of thing though, and I do understand why he makes the decision he does, and will even admit that it is rather romantic as it's intended to be, but still. Ugh. Thankfully I'm assured that it won't be a continuing trend in the rest of the series. That moderate disappointment aside, I still very much enjoyed this book, and would definitely recommend it to fans of paranormal romance or of Greek mythology. 4½ stars to this one easily.
Josie is a very real sort of character, a single woman who works hard to help keep the family bakery afloat, with little real help from her brothers who are the actual owners of the place. They take advantage of her to a shameful extent, yet she rarely complains to them about it, instead simply picking up the large amount of slack they leave to keep the place running and successful. Bit by bit, we learn various other details of her life and history, most of which highlight the fact that she's had a less than charmed life up to this point. She is certainly a very strong character, with a great many qualities that make her both entirely likeable and someone you can't help but respect, and is anything but a damsel in distress when it comes right down to it.
Dionysus is the dreamy, sensual sort of playboy that almost any woman would want, at least on some level. There's little not to like about him on the surface at least, and still plenty to like once you get past the surface even, because for all that he's led a carefree and rather shallow lifestyle for centuries and not given much thought to it, there is quite a decent core of caring underneath the party-boy exterior. After the somewhat ditsy portrayal he received in For the Love of a God, it was interesting to see that he really does have a lot of depth of character and that he's more than willing to fight for the things he truly feels passionate about, perhaps even more than Eryx was, at least at first.
The story of Dionysus and Josie's romance is interesting, and sweet with their attraction to one another being both instant and developing over an extended period of time. Still, since they never act upon the attraction in all the months they know one another, when they finally are thrown together it can't help but seem a bit forced, at least to the extent that Josie is willing to accept things as easily as she does (though to be fair, it is noted that at first she simply decides to just go with it rather than really trying to understand or accept it). Perhaps because of this feeling that they are pushed together a bit prematurely before either of them was really ready for it, their relationship through the journey that comprises the main part of the book seems a bit artificial. Yet it's hard to deny the genuine attraction between them, or the strength of the feelings for one another that eventually emerge. What starts as merely a heavy flirtation and dalliance develops into a relationship where each is literally willing to endure or go through hell for the other.
My main quibble with this book is the same one I had with the first book in the series, and involves a decision that Dionysus makes near the end which makes the alpha-male lover in me scream in denial. This is a personal preference sort of thing though, and I do understand why he makes the decision he does, and will even admit that it is rather romantic as it's intended to be, but still. Ugh. Thankfully I'm assured that it won't be a continuing trend in the rest of the series. That moderate disappointment aside, I still very much enjoyed this book, and would definitely recommend it to fans of paranormal romance or of Greek mythology. 4½ stars to this one easily.
September 20, 2012
Oh how I laughed and laughed some more with this book! At a couple of points my eyes filled with tears from the strong bouts of hysterical laughter. Amazing humor, great detail, excellent characters and a fun story! This was my first time reading any work done by Rosanna Leo and WILL NOT be my last! It was a wonderfully written, funny, touching, sensual and romantic story that many will end up rereading. I would say any genre reader would find this story hard to put down because once it grabs you, it does not let go until the very end!
Josie works in her family bakery for a few reasons. But mainly just because she’s content to do what she’s doing and to have the feeling of family around her. She has a dream that she plans to accomplish one day but needs to get back on track with her brother’s in the bakery so she can have the funds to pursue it. One day an amazingly good looking Adonis walked in and Josie was immediately struck by his confidence and stunning good looks. But he’s just not for her, nor her for him. She’s not a model type and men like that tend to be the ones to crushe and pulverize a woman’s heart, not just break it. But day after day he’s returned to the bakery ordering a very specific coffee and has even saved her like the damsel in distress she was at the time. Could it be he cares for her?
Dionysus is what he is and what he is is a god. The Greek God of Wine to be exact and one of the hottest I've ever read! He was journeying to visit his cousin one day and an unbelievably compelling scent drew him to enter a small bakery. Upon entering he surveys the place and spots a woman that he finds himself drawn to in a way no other has. He’s a GOD! No woman should/could do the things this one is to his body, heart and soul. But (as we all know) fate works in some very mysterious ways and not even a god can mess with it :)
Josie and Dionysus are now officially my favorite duo! They go through so much in a matter of months, each trying their hardest to deny the inevitable. I hope to see more of them some time in the very near future (*hint hint to author if you read this)
Josie works in her family bakery for a few reasons. But mainly just because she’s content to do what she’s doing and to have the feeling of family around her. She has a dream that she plans to accomplish one day but needs to get back on track with her brother’s in the bakery so she can have the funds to pursue it. One day an amazingly good looking Adonis walked in and Josie was immediately struck by his confidence and stunning good looks. But he’s just not for her, nor her for him. She’s not a model type and men like that tend to be the ones to crushe and pulverize a woman’s heart, not just break it. But day after day he’s returned to the bakery ordering a very specific coffee and has even saved her like the damsel in distress she was at the time. Could it be he cares for her?
Dionysus is what he is and what he is is a god. The Greek God of Wine to be exact and one of the hottest I've ever read! He was journeying to visit his cousin one day and an unbelievably compelling scent drew him to enter a small bakery. Upon entering he surveys the place and spots a woman that he finds himself drawn to in a way no other has. He’s a GOD! No woman should/could do the things this one is to his body, heart and soul. But (as we all know) fate works in some very mysterious ways and not even a god can mess with it :)
Josie and Dionysus are now officially my favorite duo! They go through so much in a matter of months, each trying their hardest to deny the inevitable. I hope to see more of them some time in the very near future (*hint hint to author if you read this)
January 24, 2014
I really loved this book! It was the perfect following to book 1 of the series and I enjoyed it just as much. It was funny and sweet and held my attention the entire time. That gives me hope that others in this series will be just as great.
In the first book we met Dionysus. He seems to enjoy the perks of being the Greek god of wine and lust, and why shouldn't he? He's the life of the party and he has more than enough playmates to keep him company. So why then is starting to think of marriage and minivans as a turn-on. And why does he find himself so fascinated with a little human woman with flour and pastry dough stuck to every exposed part of her body? She's nothing like his normal type, yet he can't seem to walk away.
Josie is a baker in a Toronto deli owned by her lazy do-nothing brothers. She's over-worked and underpaid. But life gets interesting when she gets a new customer, one "Dionysus Iros". The man is rude, insulting, always there with a new woman or twelve on his arm, and gorgeous as sin itself. He's the worst sort of womanizer, but he's also the man who continually comes to her rescue when she needs one. The more she gets to know him the more she sees the man he really is.
I loved the road trip to Hell and back (pun intended). I loved all the different levels and their purpose. Most of all, I loved that it was in Hades that they realized and admitted their feelings for each other. To find heaven in hell in quite a feat.
I recently read a few other books about Greek gods, including one about Dionysus, and they left me feeling flat. I think it was because this book set the bar so high for how I see Dionysus that anything else was a let down. Well done.
Would I reread this book? Yes
Would I recommend this book to a friend? Yes
In the first book we met Dionysus. He seems to enjoy the perks of being the Greek god of wine and lust, and why shouldn't he? He's the life of the party and he has more than enough playmates to keep him company. So why then is starting to think of marriage and minivans as a turn-on. And why does he find himself so fascinated with a little human woman with flour and pastry dough stuck to every exposed part of her body? She's nothing like his normal type, yet he can't seem to walk away.
Josie is a baker in a Toronto deli owned by her lazy do-nothing brothers. She's over-worked and underpaid. But life gets interesting when she gets a new customer, one "Dionysus Iros". The man is rude, insulting, always there with a new woman or twelve on his arm, and gorgeous as sin itself. He's the worst sort of womanizer, but he's also the man who continually comes to her rescue when she needs one. The more she gets to know him the more she sees the man he really is.
I loved the road trip to Hell and back (pun intended). I loved all the different levels and their purpose. Most of all, I loved that it was in Hades that they realized and admitted their feelings for each other. To find heaven in hell in quite a feat.
I recently read a few other books about Greek gods, including one about Dionysus, and they left me feeling flat. I think it was because this book set the bar so high for how I see Dionysus that anything else was a let down. Well done.
Would I reread this book? Yes
Would I recommend this book to a friend? Yes
September 22, 2014
Sweet hell - by Roseanna Leo
This book follows `For the Love of God'. While this is set as the second in the series - and we did meet Dionysus in the first book, it can stand alone.
We have Josie a mouthy woman working in a bakery owned by her brothers. It's the last place she wants to be. Josie wants to open a winery, or at least get some credit from her brothers. Then in walks a man who looks like a Greek god and is named for one too- Dionysus, only what Josie doesn't know is, he IS a Greek god! And for some reason, he knows just how to irritate Josie.
Then we have Dionysus who came to Toronto to figure out what is wrong with himself.. He has been restless and moody and he can't figure out why. He figures he will visit his cousin, Eryx, who gave up his immortality for the love of a mortal woman, to see if he can help him figure it out. Instead he runs into Josie and something changes inside of him, no matter how much he denies it.
I love the way we have a God, a mouthy girl and a heck of a challenge that takes them into the depths of hell - literally and I am simply entranced with her version of a certain God of the Underworld.
Her characters' sharp wit and her wonderful handling of Greek mythology make this a winner in my book!
I can not express how much I like how she is a master of witty dialogue - cause this book was LOL funny , also well written, easy to read and the story just flows so that you completely lose track of time.. It has it all romance, adventure, Greek gods and plenty of sexual chemistry.
Just like with the first book - I am once again up till the wee hours reading.
If you haven't read this book or the first give it a try, you will not be disappointed.
This book follows `For the Love of God'. While this is set as the second in the series - and we did meet Dionysus in the first book, it can stand alone.
We have Josie a mouthy woman working in a bakery owned by her brothers. It's the last place she wants to be. Josie wants to open a winery, or at least get some credit from her brothers. Then in walks a man who looks like a Greek god and is named for one too- Dionysus, only what Josie doesn't know is, he IS a Greek god! And for some reason, he knows just how to irritate Josie.
Then we have Dionysus who came to Toronto to figure out what is wrong with himself.. He has been restless and moody and he can't figure out why. He figures he will visit his cousin, Eryx, who gave up his immortality for the love of a mortal woman, to see if he can help him figure it out. Instead he runs into Josie and something changes inside of him, no matter how much he denies it.
I love the way we have a God, a mouthy girl and a heck of a challenge that takes them into the depths of hell - literally and I am simply entranced with her version of a certain God of the Underworld.
Her characters' sharp wit and her wonderful handling of Greek mythology make this a winner in my book!
I can not express how much I like how she is a master of witty dialogue - cause this book was LOL funny , also well written, easy to read and the story just flows so that you completely lose track of time.. It has it all romance, adventure, Greek gods and plenty of sexual chemistry.
Just like with the first book - I am once again up till the wee hours reading.
If you haven't read this book or the first give it a try, you will not be disappointed.
August 26, 2014
I thoroughly enjoyed Sweet Hell by Rosanna Leo. Since I'm writing something in a similar genre, I wanted to see how the pros did it, and I wasn't disappointed. Dionysus has never really been all that interesting to me, and yet Leo makes him a wonderful lead. Protective, mischievous, and loving, he's not what I expected, but I can't picture him any other way now. Josie was a great female lead too: I love "average" women growing into heroines in their own regard as their story progresses. The writing itself was easy to follow, littered with beautiful Greek mythology nods and tidbits. It was a great ride, and I'd recommend it to anyone. My only issue was some of the language Dionysus and Eryx used at one point--words like bro and dude just didn't feel authentic to me, even if they are supposed to be "modern" men. All that aside, I enjoyed myself. It's a romance worth your time. Looking forward to reading more of Leo's books in the near future.
January 4, 2013
Read this as part of the January 2013 "All Greek to Me" challenge - there were several other challenge/list folks with it on their list and it sounded fun.
I have to come clean and say I actually enjoyed this more than I thought I would. The main male character, Dionysus, was kind of a jerk in the first few chapters, which maybe was the entire point because he completely redeemed himself by the end. I also really loved the fact that there were several plot twists I didn't see coming - made for a quick read since I kept turning pages to see what was happening next.
STILL chucking over Cats Domino! (Read it and you'll see what I mean. For anyone who has ever owned an ancient, mangy cat.....)
I have to come clean and say I actually enjoyed this more than I thought I would. The main male character, Dionysus, was kind of a jerk in the first few chapters, which maybe was the entire point because he completely redeemed himself by the end. I also really loved the fact that there were several plot twists I didn't see coming - made for a quick read since I kept turning pages to see what was happening next.
STILL chucking over Cats Domino! (Read it and you'll see what I mean. For anyone who has ever owned an ancient, mangy cat.....)
March 14, 2013
Not bad, an easy reading book. There is a story about Orpheus & Eurydice in this book, reminds me of "The Edge of Never". I love that book.
Dionysus:
Josie Marino:
Dionysus:
Josie Marino:
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