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Brandywine Investigations #1
Canines, Crosshairs And Corpses
What's a Lord of the Dead to do? Hades' bride of several thousand years has served him with divorce papers and she doesn't just want him out of her life, she wants the palace and the dog, too. Hades' nephews and his faithful ferryman, Charon, are determined to find their uncle something to distract him before he expires of brooding misery.
Tiberius Snyder had a good future, until his mother dies and his employer shuts down. When he finds himself alone with nowhere to live, he turns to panhandling and to drink, depression slowly killing him.
He just wants a place to sleep out of the cold wind, but Death finds him in a dirty alley. Odd. Ti never thought Death would be so hot...
Genres: Gay / Contemporary Fantasy / Action / Adventure / Mystery / Detective
Length: Extended Novella (40k words)
Tiberius Snyder had a good future, until his mother dies and his employer shuts down. When he finds himself alone with nowhere to live, he turns to panhandling and to drink, depression slowly killing him.
He just wants a place to sleep out of the cold wind, but Death finds him in a dirty alley. Odd. Ti never thought Death would be so hot...
Genres: Gay / Contemporary Fantasy / Action / Adventure / Mystery / Detective
Length: Extended Novella (40k words)
183 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 19, 2013
6 people are currently reading
359 people want to read
About the author
Angel Martinez
96 books679 followersAngel Martinez currently lives part time in the hectic sprawl of northern Delaware and full time inside her head. She has one husband, one son, two cats, a love of all things beautiful and a terrible addiction to the consumption of both knowledge and chocolate.
Angel's alter ego writes the all-ages science fiction - Sandra Stixrude.
Angel's alter ego writes the all-ages science fiction - Sandra Stixrude.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
February 15, 2017
What an unusual take on mythology! Hades was quite a surprise and Ti had a lot to work through and a few things to get over... like dying... to get the future that he had always wanted!
The universe was strange and wonderful... Which pretty much sums up this story!
I found the story well written and the characters entertaining! I am curious to see where this series will go from here!
The universe was strange and wonderful... Which pretty much sums up this story!
I found the story well written and the characters entertaining! I am curious to see where this series will go from here!
August 12, 2014
Awesome characters with compelling stories. Hades, the misunderstood god, and Tiberius, a man dealing with a painful past and suffering through withdrawal, both struggling to adjust to life changes. The characterization for both was consistent and well done.
The depth of emotion they both showed was touching, and the bits of humor added a nice balance to all the feels. It's more romance than mystery, but I'm not a big mystery buff, so I was okay with that. The romance was more sweet than steamy, but it fit with the storyline, and it made me happy.
I also enjoyed how Greek mythology was woven into the story. Charon, especially, was a wonderful addition; a little scary, but very appealing.
The depth of emotion they both showed was touching, and the bits of humor added a nice balance to all the feels. It's more romance than mystery, but I'm not a big mystery buff, so I was okay with that. The romance was more sweet than steamy, but it fit with the storyline, and it made me happy.
I also enjoyed how Greek mythology was woven into the story. Charon, especially, was a wonderful addition; a little scary, but very appealing.
October 18, 2015
Everybody, please, meet Hades, a God, a good man and a gentle soul, who is heartbroken over his wife serving him divorce papers, and who picks up unfortunate abused strays whether they are dogs or boys.
Great comfort read.
3.5 stars, rounding up for the love of puppies :D
Great comfort read.
3.5 stars, rounding up for the love of puppies :D
July 22, 2013
Well written and believable story of Greek gods making a living in contemporary era.
From the beginning it was clear that the story was based of Greek mythologies and the built up from the foundation was true to the original. I also felt that it was done with a lot of care and respect as well.
However, it wasn't really a mystery genre as the cover or the title appeared to be. It was more romance than anything else. I am not sure if it was the author's intention or not but I think it was a rather misrepresentation. It wasn't bad, if you are not looking for hardcore mystery novel, Lanyon, Josh style.
Hades' and Charon's felt true to their characters, Ti's voice as well. Hades and Charon speeches were more archaic while Ti's were more scattered and erratic at time possibly to show the effects of his withdrawal as well as being an artist.
Overall, this is a story of two people who overcome mundane life obstacle by finding each other and lean on each other while healing from the beat down, whether by divorce or depression. I felt that this could be a series, the whole gamut of Greek deities and heroes mentioned so far were interesting and would be fun to see Ms. Martinez's takes of them. And Persephone, although her page time was very little but her first line was very effective in getting the attention and pretty much define her character.
From the beginning it was clear that the story was based of Greek mythologies and the built up from the foundation was true to the original. I also felt that it was done with a lot of care and respect as well.
However, it wasn't really a mystery genre as the cover or the title appeared to be. It was more romance than anything else. I am not sure if it was the author's intention or not but I think it was a rather misrepresentation. It wasn't bad, if you are not looking for hardcore mystery novel, Lanyon, Josh style.
Hades' and Charon's felt true to their characters, Ti's voice as well. Hades and Charon speeches were more archaic while Ti's were more scattered and erratic at time possibly to show the effects of his withdrawal as well as being an artist.
Overall, this is a story of two people who overcome mundane life obstacle by finding each other and lean on each other while healing from the beat down, whether by divorce or depression. I felt that this could be a series, the whole gamut of Greek deities and heroes mentioned so far were interesting and would be fun to see Ms. Martinez's takes of them. And Persephone, although her page time was very little but her first line was very effective in getting the attention and pretty much define her character.
April 27, 2015
I am happy that I track back this one after I read No Enemy But Time. I can't really say much about it, I think
this review
by Pete W has said what I want to say.
It is a delightful story about Greek gods in contemporary time, with Hades living a 'new phase' of his life after being divorced by Persephone. I like that despite Ti being a homeless guy, down on his luck, but his character is never drowned with sorrow and anguish. It gives this story a rather light-feel and not 'pimping the angst', which I've become slightly allergic to.
The mystery is not heavy and in fact, sometimes I feel it takes a backseat over Ti finding his way to being better and Hades overcoming his daily days and growing feeling for Ti. The secondary characters are great and I'd love to read more about them
It is a delightful story about Greek gods in contemporary time, with Hades living a 'new phase' of his life after being divorced by Persephone. I like that despite Ti being a homeless guy, down on his luck, but his character is never drowned with sorrow and anguish. It gives this story a rather light-feel and not 'pimping the angst', which I've become slightly allergic to.
The mystery is not heavy and in fact, sometimes I feel it takes a backseat over Ti finding his way to being better and Hades overcoming his daily days and growing feeling for Ti. The secondary characters are great and I'd love to read more about them
May 17, 2021
An interesting twist to using the Greek pantheon.
I am... there is no nicer way to say this, I think, mildly fond of this author's work. I read the whole Lime Gelatine thingie and it was so "bizarre", so not what you expect with having gifted detectives except the gifts are like... fruit teleporting and this does have a pretty similar... concept. It's being a bit funny, really different in a quirky way without completely losing all the serious vibes.
The romance was insta-thing, though. And the investigation not as serious as in the other series maybe because here, only Hades is the detective and it's not exactly totally his job so you don't follow it as much as get some updates when something happens.
Generally, it was nice. Good enough. I feel like going here on about one of my, bread, it was, I think, bread metaphors when I explain I read a lot and I don't believe literature (at my disposal) is entirely made out of 5 stars books only so for the most part, I am going to be reading the nice ones - just like you don't usually eat it, dunno, pricey restaurants or eat... under the Blue Moon harvested petals of... shafron... geez, just substitute something you consider fancy food - you can't eat it all the time if you're not a rich person (and in books, even that does not always help) so you end up eating "bread" (I rarely eat bread, I feel the need to add as some random trivia, I find it boring unless it's either homemade or fresh) which is the you know, not a bad thing but bread can be grilled cheese with fresh tomatoes and tofu and chives or something or it can be the nutela bread you (I) eat probably right before someone goes shopping for something that is not last resort food.
And look at me spending another large portion of the review babling. I think that in my head, I am trying to either politely but very concomitantly compliment the book by saying it's "nice" or just trying to justify my limp feelings and kind of really only pointing out them more?
Recap: It's kind of sweet, kind of staged, pretty unique and involves some super powers but not too much and some investigation though it's not that detective-y.
Still recommend. Gently.
I am... there is no nicer way to say this, I think, mildly fond of this author's work. I read the whole Lime Gelatine thingie and it was so "bizarre", so not what you expect with having gifted detectives except the gifts are like... fruit teleporting and this does have a pretty similar... concept. It's being a bit funny, really different in a quirky way without completely losing all the serious vibes.
The romance was insta-thing, though. And the investigation not as serious as in the other series maybe because here, only Hades is the detective and it's not exactly totally his job so you don't follow it as much as get some updates when something happens.
Generally, it was nice. Good enough. I feel like going here on about one of my, bread, it was, I think, bread metaphors when I explain I read a lot and I don't believe literature (at my disposal) is entirely made out of 5 stars books only so for the most part, I am going to be reading the nice ones - just like you don't usually eat it, dunno, pricey restaurants or eat... under the Blue Moon harvested petals of... shafron... geez, just substitute something you consider fancy food - you can't eat it all the time if you're not a rich person (and in books, even that does not always help) so you end up eating "bread" (I rarely eat bread, I feel the need to add as some random trivia, I find it boring unless it's either homemade or fresh) which is the you know, not a bad thing but bread can be grilled cheese with fresh tomatoes and tofu and chives or something or it can be the nutela bread you (I) eat probably right before someone goes shopping for something that is not last resort food.
And look at me spending another large portion of the review babling. I think that in my head, I am trying to either politely but very concomitantly compliment the book by saying it's "nice" or just trying to justify my limp feelings and kind of really only pointing out them more?
Recap: It's kind of sweet, kind of staged, pretty unique and involves some super powers but not too much and some investigation though it's not that detective-y.
Still recommend. Gently.
May 21, 2016
The idea behind this series is a look at what the old Greek gods would do if they were real, still around today, and forced to evolve with the times. At one point early on Hestia says to Hades that “Modern gods don’t simply sit about and eat ambrosia. That would be disgraceful.” – and that pretty much sums up the premise of the series as well as the tone. I loved the idea of gods having to do what humans have been struggling with ever since we stepped down from the trees. Finding your own way in life is not easy, and if this first book is any indication, this series will not just be very cleverly designed but highly entertaining. Hades’s story fascinated me since I wanted to find out what he would decide, how he would deal with modern life, but it also made me laugh because much of what he goes through is so true and so “human” – and that makes it really funny.
Hades has a tough lesson to learn in this first installment, and from the moment he begins his journey into thinking for himself rather than accepting the role he was given, he discovers a side to himself he was never aware of. For a Lord of the Dead, finding out he may have feelings is a revelation. Figuring out a job is easy for him, and seeing him becoming a badass PI is pretty funny. He has a way to “speak to the dead” that gives him an advantage, and his problem-solving skills are excellent, so he’s pretty good at solving cases. It’s the more human side of things he struggles with, but Ti is there to guide him, even though neither of them realize that it’s happening. I did though, and I loved watching them.
Ti, short for Tiberius, has fallen on hard times, pretty much due to making some stupid decisions and a few idiotic mistakes. He ends up an alcoholic and homeless, and that’s when his life becomes endangered without him even realizing it. Hades figures it out and rescues him, and Ti cannot believe his luck. But then Hades tells him the truth of who he is, and Ti thinks he’s crazy – at least until Hades shows him a few things. That’s when Ti begins a journey to a different world view and becoming more mature. His emotional involvement may sneak up on him, but when he gets the message, he will do anything to protect Hades.
If you like stories with a great supernatural component, if you want to see not just an old Greek god deal with modern life, but watch him fall in love, and if you’re looking for a story that is as fantastical as it is funny and romantic, then you will probably like this novel as much as I did. I loved the characters, the way they deal with their relationship (once they notice they have one!), and the whole setup. I am so glad this is a series and I have more books to read!
NOTE: This book was provided by Amber Allure for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Hades has a tough lesson to learn in this first installment, and from the moment he begins his journey into thinking for himself rather than accepting the role he was given, he discovers a side to himself he was never aware of. For a Lord of the Dead, finding out he may have feelings is a revelation. Figuring out a job is easy for him, and seeing him becoming a badass PI is pretty funny. He has a way to “speak to the dead” that gives him an advantage, and his problem-solving skills are excellent, so he’s pretty good at solving cases. It’s the more human side of things he struggles with, but Ti is there to guide him, even though neither of them realize that it’s happening. I did though, and I loved watching them.
Ti, short for Tiberius, has fallen on hard times, pretty much due to making some stupid decisions and a few idiotic mistakes. He ends up an alcoholic and homeless, and that’s when his life becomes endangered without him even realizing it. Hades figures it out and rescues him, and Ti cannot believe his luck. But then Hades tells him the truth of who he is, and Ti thinks he’s crazy – at least until Hades shows him a few things. That’s when Ti begins a journey to a different world view and becoming more mature. His emotional involvement may sneak up on him, but when he gets the message, he will do anything to protect Hades.
If you like stories with a great supernatural component, if you want to see not just an old Greek god deal with modern life, but watch him fall in love, and if you’re looking for a story that is as fantastical as it is funny and romantic, then you will probably like this novel as much as I did. I loved the characters, the way they deal with their relationship (once they notice they have one!), and the whole setup. I am so glad this is a series and I have more books to read!
NOTE: This book was provided by Amber Allure for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
May 7, 2017
3.9 stars. I like Angel Martinez's writing and this book has not been an exception. Greek mythology interestingly feeds into the world building, without being dominant or overwhelming. What roles/jobs/occupations the ancient gods might have in the contemporary world was quite thought-provoking for me. But the focus was on Hades who struggles to give purpose to his existence and who meets Ti - a young man almost defeated by great hardship. In a nutshell, I liked how the two protagonists slowly became closer until eventually falling in love. The romantic relationship was quite solid and believable. The mystery added another dimension to a well written story, which I hoped would be longer simply because I wanted to read more of it.
May 22, 2013
4 1/2 Hearts
Review written for MM Good Book Reviews
http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com/
Hades (Aiden) doesn’t know what to do, his wife has just served him with divorce papers and kicked him out of the palace, his nephews and his friend Charon (Karl) rally round to help pull him out of his misery. Tiberius (Ti) has fallen on hard times and lives on the streets, drink and depression plaguing him. Ti just wants a place to sleep undisturbed when a shambling figure disturbs him and Death finds him, who would have thought that the God of the Dead would save a life?
This is a great story of new beginnings and discovering love, mystery and a new twist with the Greek Gods. Hades has to begin a new life in the human realm when his wife wants a divorce, with the help of his ever faithful ferryman, Charon, he is encouraged to take up a new profession as a Private Investigator. His first case catches his eye when he realises that a string of murders must be connected and he begins to investigate, coming across a young homeless man who witnesses the murder of another homeless man. Ti is just trying to keep out of the cold, he doesn’t know for sure what he saw but he wakes up in a warm room with a man who says he wants to help him. Ti doesn’t know what to make of the gorgeous strange man and his scary looking friend, but he finally decides to stick around to help discover who is murdering homeless men and why.
I really loved this book with Hades as a wonderful character with a great love of dogs, Charon as a great friend and with Ti as the victim of circumstance who catches the eye of a lonely God. Hades and Ti’s relationship is a slowly progressing one, they offer each other comfort and friendship and then they take it to the next level with Hades willing to give it all up just to have Ti back. The mystery is interesting and leads to danger for Ti and has Hades calling his family for help.
It was really interesting to see how this story was woven, with Hades having to look back on his relationship with Persephone and seeing the truth of their relationship, it was really telling how Hades was more affected by the loss of Cerberus. How Hades has an instant protective instinct over the waif he finds in an alley and how he begins to open up towards the young man. Ti inadvertently seeing something he shouldn’t and now in grave danger and not even knowing it. The developing love between the two and the risks that are taken. All the characters are brilliantly written and wonderfully described, this is a great story for an afternoon of relaxation and enjoyment.
I have to recommend this to those who love updated Greek Gods, paranormal, mystery, finding love unexpectedly, new beginnings and a great ending.
Review written for MM Good Book Reviews
http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com/
Hades (Aiden) doesn’t know what to do, his wife has just served him with divorce papers and kicked him out of the palace, his nephews and his friend Charon (Karl) rally round to help pull him out of his misery. Tiberius (Ti) has fallen on hard times and lives on the streets, drink and depression plaguing him. Ti just wants a place to sleep undisturbed when a shambling figure disturbs him and Death finds him, who would have thought that the God of the Dead would save a life?
This is a great story of new beginnings and discovering love, mystery and a new twist with the Greek Gods. Hades has to begin a new life in the human realm when his wife wants a divorce, with the help of his ever faithful ferryman, Charon, he is encouraged to take up a new profession as a Private Investigator. His first case catches his eye when he realises that a string of murders must be connected and he begins to investigate, coming across a young homeless man who witnesses the murder of another homeless man. Ti is just trying to keep out of the cold, he doesn’t know for sure what he saw but he wakes up in a warm room with a man who says he wants to help him. Ti doesn’t know what to make of the gorgeous strange man and his scary looking friend, but he finally decides to stick around to help discover who is murdering homeless men and why.
I really loved this book with Hades as a wonderful character with a great love of dogs, Charon as a great friend and with Ti as the victim of circumstance who catches the eye of a lonely God. Hades and Ti’s relationship is a slowly progressing one, they offer each other comfort and friendship and then they take it to the next level with Hades willing to give it all up just to have Ti back. The mystery is interesting and leads to danger for Ti and has Hades calling his family for help.
It was really interesting to see how this story was woven, with Hades having to look back on his relationship with Persephone and seeing the truth of their relationship, it was really telling how Hades was more affected by the loss of Cerberus. How Hades has an instant protective instinct over the waif he finds in an alley and how he begins to open up towards the young man. Ti inadvertently seeing something he shouldn’t and now in grave danger and not even knowing it. The developing love between the two and the risks that are taken. All the characters are brilliantly written and wonderfully described, this is a great story for an afternoon of relaxation and enjoyment.
I have to recommend this to those who love updated Greek Gods, paranormal, mystery, finding love unexpectedly, new beginnings and a great ending.
December 25, 2015
I should probably say upfront that I have loved or liked all of Ms Martinez's stories. This one is no exception. I loved it. As usual, the characters are well-written, flawed, and real, with the plot being believable and true to character. This story has an extra bonus: Ms Martinez has taken the myths and tales of the Greek gods and given them a twist, which, combined with the slightly dark edge she wrote into this story, gives you an enthralling read.
To begin the story, Ms. Martinez shows you a confused and lost Hades who's just been served divorce papers by Persephone. I wasn't sure if I was going to like Hades at first, but like a lot of first impressions, it gave way as I learned more of his character and quirky personality traits. After a bit of help from his family, Hades meets Tiberius (Ti). The glimpse you are given into life on the streets, and how the homeless are seen by society is full of hopelessness and despair.
I recommend this story to anyone who likes a slightly different twist on the paranormal and watching as a couple meet to eventually come together and realize how much they mean to each other. All of the story is well done, but I especially like the explanation of how gods and humans need each other.
To begin the story, Ms. Martinez shows you a confused and lost Hades who's just been served divorce papers by Persephone. I wasn't sure if I was going to like Hades at first, but like a lot of first impressions, it gave way as I learned more of his character and quirky personality traits. After a bit of help from his family, Hades meets Tiberius (Ti). The glimpse you are given into life on the streets, and how the homeless are seen by society is full of hopelessness and despair.
I recommend this story to anyone who likes a slightly different twist on the paranormal and watching as a couple meet to eventually come together and realize how much they mean to each other. All of the story is well done, but I especially like the explanation of how gods and humans need each other.
February 23, 2018
You would think the story where Hades, God of the Underworld, descent to Earth and found love will be a riveting read, but this story was just bland. Hades was never properly developed, and has zero chemistry with Tiberius. I found Ti to be a bit more interesting, but the mystery was just bleh, and totally forgettable. It gained a star because Hades loves dogs, and Nike is a South African boerboel, so my patriotic heart demanded it. Boerboels are very underrated, and it is about time their adorableness is recorded.
August 30, 2013
Some of the best line's in this book made me laugh so hard I almost peed my pants. It's not in your face funny all the time but the humor is interwoven (sometimes not so subtly) so much that you just smile when reading. It's a real joy to pick up a book and spend a couple hours and come away with a feeling you had a great deal of fun! Very clever idea spins itself into a hopeful series???
July 2, 2013
4.5
I'll never look at peanut packaging the same way again.
I'll never look at peanut packaging the same way again.
April 13, 2015
4 heart review by Vicki
Every time I read a book by Angel Martinez I am amazed by her creativity. Each book I read I think is the most creative thing she’s done. Then I read another book and bam! That’s the most unique one!
I have seen the Brandywine Investigations books around, but haven’t had a chance to experience them yet. I saw the third one releasing a few weeks ago, and thought it was time! In the first book in the series, Canines, Crosshairs and Corpses, Angel gives us a story about Greek gods and goddesses living in our modern world. Huh. How can that work? You’d be surprised….
Hades has been kicked out of his palace in the underworld by Persephone, she’s divorcing him and kept his dog. Hades goes on a bender and ends up being found by his nephews Hermes, Orpheus, and Dionysus getting his drink on in a dive bar. They find him with the divorce papers, and help him home to bed until they can decide what to do with him the next morning. In the morning, Hermes takes him to see Hestia for a little assistance. Hestia suggests that he find something to take his mind off the situation, and a new place to live. Between Dio, Hermes, and Charon they help him get settled in Wilmington Delaware, and get started with a business. Brandywine Investigations!
Tiberius Snyder has had a rough time. He’s truly at the bottom and has no where to go. All he wants is a corner to sleep in, which he finds, but is startled awake when a man is murdered right in front of him. To make matters even stranger, two scary men show up and grab him! He wakes up to find himself not dead, as he suspected he might be, and on a comfy couch! Then he sees Death, or Hades as it turns out to be.
This gets us to our romance, with a nice side of murder mystery. What an odd combination that works oh so well. Hades, the God of the Underworld, and the homeless, alcoholic, wreck of a man, with a sweet heart, Tiberius. Throw in Charon the boatman, and a goofy puppy named Nike and we have a wonderful story. The plot was interesting with the little bit of mystery, and the developing love between Hades and Ti was just perfect. Charon was such a great addition, at times threatening, at other times caring. There is a little drama, a little angst, a little sex, a little humor, just enough of everything to make it interesting.
Part of me wants to give this book five stars, it is an Angel Martinez book and I loved it. But when I think over her other books that I have read and given five stars to, this one is not quiiiiiite there. I did love it, but did I love it as much as Gravitational Attraction? Or the Endangered Fae books? Or the new AURA books? I can’t say that. This is a fantastic shorter story, with interesting characters and a unique story. If you have liked Angel’s other books, you’ll like this one. If you haven’t read one of hers, this would be a good one to start with.
A copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review. Please visit www.lovebytesreviews.com to see this and many more reviews, author interviews, guestposts and giveaways!
Every time I read a book by Angel Martinez I am amazed by her creativity. Each book I read I think is the most creative thing she’s done. Then I read another book and bam! That’s the most unique one!
I have seen the Brandywine Investigations books around, but haven’t had a chance to experience them yet. I saw the third one releasing a few weeks ago, and thought it was time! In the first book in the series, Canines, Crosshairs and Corpses, Angel gives us a story about Greek gods and goddesses living in our modern world. Huh. How can that work? You’d be surprised….
Hades has been kicked out of his palace in the underworld by Persephone, she’s divorcing him and kept his dog. Hades goes on a bender and ends up being found by his nephews Hermes, Orpheus, and Dionysus getting his drink on in a dive bar. They find him with the divorce papers, and help him home to bed until they can decide what to do with him the next morning. In the morning, Hermes takes him to see Hestia for a little assistance. Hestia suggests that he find something to take his mind off the situation, and a new place to live. Between Dio, Hermes, and Charon they help him get settled in Wilmington Delaware, and get started with a business. Brandywine Investigations!
Tiberius Snyder has had a rough time. He’s truly at the bottom and has no where to go. All he wants is a corner to sleep in, which he finds, but is startled awake when a man is murdered right in front of him. To make matters even stranger, two scary men show up and grab him! He wakes up to find himself not dead, as he suspected he might be, and on a comfy couch! Then he sees Death, or Hades as it turns out to be.
This gets us to our romance, with a nice side of murder mystery. What an odd combination that works oh so well. Hades, the God of the Underworld, and the homeless, alcoholic, wreck of a man, with a sweet heart, Tiberius. Throw in Charon the boatman, and a goofy puppy named Nike and we have a wonderful story. The plot was interesting with the little bit of mystery, and the developing love between Hades and Ti was just perfect. Charon was such a great addition, at times threatening, at other times caring. There is a little drama, a little angst, a little sex, a little humor, just enough of everything to make it interesting.
Part of me wants to give this book five stars, it is an Angel Martinez book and I loved it. But when I think over her other books that I have read and given five stars to, this one is not quiiiiiite there. I did love it, but did I love it as much as Gravitational Attraction? Or the Endangered Fae books? Or the new AURA books? I can’t say that. This is a fantastic shorter story, with interesting characters and a unique story. If you have liked Angel’s other books, you’ll like this one. If you haven’t read one of hers, this would be a good one to start with.
A copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review. Please visit www.lovebytesreviews.com to see this and many more reviews, author interviews, guestposts and giveaways!
June 27, 2013
I love this writer's spin on fairy tales. This one is no exception as she embellished the greek gods mythology and gave us such an engaging, original and fun fantasy. I love the characters. It is such a brilliant idea to have the Lord of the Underworld, such a mystical, brooding and seemingly forbidden god, as the protagonist. Tiberius, a homeless man and an alcoholic, a victim of circumstances, but this young man never lost his genuineness, humane and warm side. Charon, the ferryman of hades, so faithful and loyal is the perfect sidekick for our god of hades. And of course the dogs and the various gods and goddesses in the beginnng part of the story, who are such a hoot. The plot is very refreshing. What roles or jobs could each ancient god embrace while living as a human in the contemporary world? Such fun to find out. Hades working as a private investigator is so fitting and of course provide the mystery and magical elements in the plot. I enjoy the blossoming romance between Hades and Tiberius and the last part, when they have to prove their love is great. So much fun reading this
June 29, 2016
It's my first book of Angel Martinez and I love her already. It's also my first time reading a M/M romance with Greek mythology and I was a bit skeptic at first but it was just so well written and fun to read that I was already captivated by the first page.
I love how the setting is in a modern and human world. It's well integrated and strangely believable.
We follow Hades, a lost god, trying to find his purpose in life. He's heartbroken and feels rejected and while doing his now new human job, he stumbles on this broken, lost, homeless guy-- Ti. (By the way, I love his name. Tiberius.) What I love the most about Hades is his grumpiness, his literal interpretation of everything and his very poor social skills. I expected him to be arrogant, dominant - him being a god and all - but he's just so lovable. (I mean how cute is he when he talks about dogs!)
The developing relationship between the MCs was slow and sweet.
You should totally read it.
I love how the setting is in a modern and human world. It's well integrated and strangely believable.
We follow Hades, a lost god, trying to find his purpose in life. He's heartbroken and feels rejected and while doing his now new human job, he stumbles on this broken, lost, homeless guy-- Ti. (By the way, I love his name. Tiberius.) What I love the most about Hades is his grumpiness, his literal interpretation of everything and his very poor social skills. I expected him to be arrogant, dominant - him being a god and all - but he's just so lovable. (I mean how cute is he when he talks about dogs!)
The developing relationship between the MCs was slow and sweet.
You should totally read it.
June 12, 2015
This was great fun. I've gotten to teach Greek mythology to my students the last four years, so reading this author's interpretations of how the gods adapted to fit into 21st century America was delightful.
I wasn't as convinced by the romance, but the rest of the story was fun enough I couldn't care.
Some Favorite Quotes:
"Here, Uncle. Need to get down a bit of the hair of the dog and all that," Dionysus said in the same gentle whisper.
Hades stared at the glass in continued incomprehension. "I don't... eat dogs."
"I have trouble believing we're speaking the same language sometimes."
I wasn't as convinced by the romance, but the rest of the story was fun enough I couldn't care.
Some Favorite Quotes:
"Here, Uncle. Need to get down a bit of the hair of the dog and all that," Dionysus said in the same gentle whisper.
Hades stared at the glass in continued incomprehension. "I don't... eat dogs."
"I have trouble believing we're speaking the same language sometimes."
May 25, 2013
A pleasure from start to finish -- and there aren't that many books I can say that about. The characters, the world building, the developing relationship between the MCs -- sigh! It left me spellbound. Somehow, I resisted the urge to devour it faster than all three of Cerberus's heads with a single bag of doggy treats and instead savored it like the rare ambrosia it is. Two regrets: first, that it came to an end as all things, even the gods, eventually must and second, that I can only give it 5 stars. The error-free format of the book alone deserves that much.
April 6, 2019
This was a great book both funny and creative. This takes Greek mythology and puts it in the present time. All the gods have found something to do with their time and now recently divorce Hades has to do the same. It was fun to watch Hades go from lost and depressed to in love with Ti. I did feel like it glossed over Ti's drinking problem but since this was a fairly light hearted book it felt more appropriate to the theme of the book. Watching the various gods interact together was great and I loved Charon fussing over Hades. I'm really looking forward to future books in this universe.
May 15, 2014
Very good. Different approach to Greek Mythology, namely Hades and Persephone's supposed love story. Good background, thorough world-building and nice research all combined into a lovely criminal mystery and romance. Not exactly what I expected when I grabbed it but I am immensely satisfied. Both Hades and Ti surprised me completely with the complexness of their lives and personalties and it was a real treat. Add a good HEA and it ended perfectly.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 21, 2015
3.5 stars
Hades in modern world, playing at being PI - who could afford to hire him I've no idea. It wasn't like he actually need the pay anyway! :)
I so enjoyed this story. Didn't often get to see Hades depicted as the good guy. Charon, Hades' loyal ferryman, was no less entertaining in a creepy way of his.
Hades in modern world, playing at being PI - who could afford to hire him I've no idea. It wasn't like he actually need the pay anyway! :)
I so enjoyed this story. Didn't often get to see Hades depicted as the good guy. Charon, Hades' loyal ferryman, was no less entertaining in a creepy way of his.
May 30, 2013
Cute. I especially liked Charon-he was funny and protective.
Read
December 9, 2013Well-written and clever! I love Greek mythology and any new take on this gets my attention. Really liked this one and the unlikely romance between Ti and Hades is sweet.
June 10, 2016
this was really interesting,the author amazes me with her imagination and the worlds she creates. the relationship was very sweet,but it lacked a spark and sexual tension,that i happen to love:(
August 30, 2016
Entertaining, funny, a bit sad and super sexy as well. Really enjoyed this story!
September 17, 2013
Rating 4.5
July 9, 2017
Angel Martinez takes Greek mythology and gives it her own special twist in her new novella, Canines, Crosshairs and Corpses. From the humorous nuances she builds into her main character, Hades, to the tender yet broken figure of the homeless man, Tiberius, the author weaves a story that delightfully draws you into its subtle wit and budding romance.
This novella joins a murder mystery with a quick lesson in mythology and wraps it all up in a tender love story. Along the way, we capture glimpses of well known figures such as Hermes, Dionysus, Hestia, and Persephone, to name a few. However, other than Hades, the most humorous character would have to be Charon, the boatsman of the Underworld. And his job, topside on earth? Undertaker, of course.
This story had me grinning, guffawing and every once in a while, sighing sweetly, as it all unfolded on the page. Underneath this deceptively simplistic mythological lesson was a deeper understanding of how we learn to love, and, in doing so, freely give up ourselves to care for another, placing their needs above our own.
This novella joins a murder mystery with a quick lesson in mythology and wraps it all up in a tender love story. Along the way, we capture glimpses of well known figures such as Hermes, Dionysus, Hestia, and Persephone, to name a few. However, other than Hades, the most humorous character would have to be Charon, the boatsman of the Underworld. And his job, topside on earth? Undertaker, of course.
This story had me grinning, guffawing and every once in a while, sighing sweetly, as it all unfolded on the page. Underneath this deceptively simplistic mythological lesson was a deeper understanding of how we learn to love, and, in doing so, freely give up ourselves to care for another, placing their needs above our own.
October 27, 2025
Interesting concept. The gods in the mortal realm because people don’t worship them anymore. They need something to keep themselves occupied. The first book in the series features Hades who has started a PI agency after Persephone presents him with divorce papers. Hades is investigating murders and finds a homeless man in the midst of the scene of the most recent attack. A relationship develops between Ti and Hades. Hades friend Charon, the Ferryman, serves as a sort of butler/translator of the modern world for Hades and we also meet Hermes and Dionysius, Hades nephews. The way mythology is incorporated into the story is an interesting hook. I’m definitely interested enough to move on to book two.
May 27, 2017
A fun nonsens story.
I loved Charon! Sure I know he was "just" a secondary character, but he was just sooo refreshing. I wanted more of him!
Sure Hades was good too and Tiberius was likeable, but the star for me was Charon.
I loved Charon! Sure I know he was "just" a secondary character, but he was just sooo refreshing. I wanted more of him!
Sure Hades was good too and Tiberius was likeable, but the star for me was Charon.
July 30, 2018
This book was just too cute! Yes, I know it’s about the god of the underworld, and murder, and death, and all, but I loved the interaction between Hades and Ti! They were an intriguing couple, balanced, and sweet. I’m diving right into book 2!
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