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At Odds with the Gods
The road to redemption is long, rough, and steep. Bring snacks.
Finn Lassiter is a werewolf without a pack. Or a roof over his head. Or more than five bucks to his name. He’s exhausted every lifeline except the one that makes him want to begging his cousin, the supreme alpha, for charity. After the way Finn behaved for their entire lives, it’s entirely possible he’ll be turned down flat or banished forever when he makes that call tomorrow. So today he’s blowing his last dollar at Nectar & Ambrosia—he needs one more smile from the bakery’s beautiful owner to weather the bleak years ahead.
Ganymede, former cup bearer to the Greek gods, is reveling in his new life as a restaurateur in Portland, Oregon. He’s finally free of the Olympians and their extremely tedious menu options. Finn, the cute customer who’s haunted the corner table in his bakery since opening day, is just icing on the cake.
When the gods stage an encore, however, attempting to weasel out of their Fates-mandated atonement labors, Gany’s new livelihood isn’t the only thing at stake—Finn’s safety and freedom are at risk, too. Of course Gany invites Finn to stay with him until the danger passes! It would be irresponsible not to. Right?
Although with all the baggage he’s carrying from his past, that idea just might be only half-baked…
At Odds with the Gods is a friends-to-lovers Mythmatched/Purgatory Playhouse crossover featuring secrets on all sides, empowered former victims, misbehaving deities, three large, rambunctious pups, and cake. Lots and lots of cake.
Finn Lassiter is a werewolf without a pack. Or a roof over his head. Or more than five bucks to his name. He’s exhausted every lifeline except the one that makes him want to begging his cousin, the supreme alpha, for charity. After the way Finn behaved for their entire lives, it’s entirely possible he’ll be turned down flat or banished forever when he makes that call tomorrow. So today he’s blowing his last dollar at Nectar & Ambrosia—he needs one more smile from the bakery’s beautiful owner to weather the bleak years ahead.
Ganymede, former cup bearer to the Greek gods, is reveling in his new life as a restaurateur in Portland, Oregon. He’s finally free of the Olympians and their extremely tedious menu options. Finn, the cute customer who’s haunted the corner table in his bakery since opening day, is just icing on the cake.
When the gods stage an encore, however, attempting to weasel out of their Fates-mandated atonement labors, Gany’s new livelihood isn’t the only thing at stake—Finn’s safety and freedom are at risk, too. Of course Gany invites Finn to stay with him until the danger passes! It would be irresponsible not to. Right?
Although with all the baggage he’s carrying from his past, that idea just might be only half-baked…
At Odds with the Gods is a friends-to-lovers Mythmatched/Purgatory Playhouse crossover featuring secrets on all sides, empowered former victims, misbehaving deities, three large, rambunctious pups, and cake. Lots and lots of cake.
175 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 5, 2023
About the author
E.J. Russell
54 books442 followersE.J. Russell –grace, mother of three, recovering actor–writes romance in a rainbow of flavors. Count on high snark, low angst and happy endings.
Reality? Eh, not so much.
Reality? Eh, not so much.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
March 15, 2024
At odds…
Stories involving the food industry just generally aren’t my cuppa, and this was no exception. I really enjoyed other books in this verse by this author, but not this one.
Stories involving the food industry just generally aren’t my cuppa, and this was no exception. I really enjoyed other books in this verse by this author, but not this one.
February 19, 2024
Cute, fun, sweet. We have many crossover characters, so reading both the myth matched and the purgatory playhouse is a must
January 16, 2026
The audiobook is also nice
November 5, 2023
What fun to reconnect with some familiar characters and meet some new ones! I've read a few of the Mythmatched series books and none of the Purgatory Playhouse ones, but had no problem diving into this book and understanding the characters and how they relate. Ganymede, an Olympic God cupbearer now gets to live his days doing what HE wants, running a bakery. Finn, a werewolf in disgrace, is a loyal customer, but down to his last dollars when Gany offers him a way to regain some self respect as well as a home (and a chance to dogsit and connect with Gany's 3 mutts, formerly joined as Cerebus). I liked the crossover of themes - paranormals and Greek Gods - and how the story unfolded to give Gany and Finn the life they want and a happy ever after. The heat level is lower (kisses only) but fit with the characters and the story. Enjoyable and low angst read.
A copy of this story was provided by the author.
A copy of this story was provided by the author.
March 7, 2024
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
This book is a crossover between the E.J. Russell’s Mythmatched Universe and Purgatory Playhouse series. While I’ve read all of the Mythmatched books, I haven’t had a chance to read the other series yet, but I didn’t find that much of a detriment to understanding the story. Russell gives enough background that readers won’t be lost if they haven’t read both. Or really, either. I will say, though, that having read at least the Mythmatched books gave me a deeper understanding of the story, and I’m sure if I had read the other series as well, that would be even more true. This book tipped a little more into the Mythmatched world, as there are a ton of cameos from that series, and only a few from Purgatory Playhouse. But again, you don’t have to have read either in order to enjoy this story.
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
This book is a crossover between the E.J. Russell’s Mythmatched Universe and Purgatory Playhouse series. While I’ve read all of the Mythmatched books, I haven’t had a chance to read the other series yet, but I didn’t find that much of a detriment to understanding the story. Russell gives enough background that readers won’t be lost if they haven’t read both. Or really, either. I will say, though, that having read at least the Mythmatched books gave me a deeper understanding of the story, and I’m sure if I had read the other series as well, that would be even more true. This book tipped a little more into the Mythmatched world, as there are a ton of cameos from that series, and only a few from Purgatory Playhouse. But again, you don’t have to have read either in order to enjoy this story.
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
November 5, 2023
I have not read any of the other mythmatched series but really enjoyed this one. Finn has been visiting the bakery that Gany/Gary started and has had a crush on him from the first moment he saw him. When Finn visited with the last few dollars in his pocket, they got to talking and Gany gave him a place to stay. This started their story with Finn and Gany finally revealing who they were, gods who were competing at their chance to go back to Olympus and Finn becoming the alpha of the three pups. Loved it and need to go back to read the others in these series.
September 29, 2025
actually enjoyed this one more than expected, love a good redemption arc.
February 6, 2026
Der Anfang ist etwas wirr, aber danach ist es genauso sweet wie die anderen Teile. Etwas kurz vlt deswegen auch der wirre Anfang.
June 15, 2026
Just like every novel by Russell short and sweet with fun characters and an entertaining romance!
November 17, 2023
not a fan of the story, surprisingly, one element overshadowed sweet romance
Rating: 2.75
E J Russell’s latest release is a book that should have worked for me. It doesn’t. Spoilers ahead. It’s all about a certain element, folks. Consent.
I love both of the series it mashes up, the Mythmatched and Purgatory Playhouse series, two hugely popular and entertaining universes. The theme of redemption and starting over is a great trope, full of emotionally charged elements for all characters.
But it depends on how it’s handled by the author and the framework for the redemption process. That’s part of why I feel that this book should come with a trigger warning.
At Odds with the Gods storyline deals with a previous tale where the gods from Mount Olympus are cast down and have to pay for their many crimes. One main trait of all the Gods is their inability to understand consent.
Note: In talking about my issues with the book I’m writing about some spoilers. If you don’t want to know, stop reading.
If you’re familiar with Greek mythology, and the Greek pantheon in particular, then you know how horrific their stories were. Abductions, forced marriages, rape, death, suicides, murder. Many coming out of arrogance or spontaneous decision making on the Gods end. Even Eros didn’t give people consent as is mentioned in the narrative. Just shot the arrows.
Ganymede, the son of the King of Troy, is a well known legend and figure in Greek mythology. A beautiful man who was abducted and sexually assaulted by Zeus who then carried Ganymede off to be his cup bearer/unwilling lover in Mount Olympus. For thousands of years.
Here, Russell’s given Ganymede a new life as a young “human” baker, released from Mt Olympus when the Fates handed down their verdict. Russell’s portrayal of Ganymede is that of a young man who is struggling with his years of captivity as a victim of sexual abuse/assault. But Russell’s treatment of this aspect of the character is flawed, imo, for many reasons. Ganymede is a tragic figure. Only strange tidbits of his time with the Gods is shared, certainly not the traumatic events or experiences he must have endured or seen during his time there. There’s no page time to discuss the topic, and the tone of the tale’s too light.
Russell’s story has elements of real darkness that aren’t being throughly explored or examined for what they are. The biggest issue being that of control/consent/non-consensual actions.
Ganymede has opened a bakery he loves. He’s happy. He’s got a crush on a werewolf (the other main character, and a great one). He’s ignorant about the supernatural world around him. Ok, for me that absolutely an odd thing about this world. He’s from Olympus but they don’t know about Supes? Anyway, who starts meddling in truly awful ways with his new life, his bakery, and trying to abduct him? A terrifying prospect, over and over. The Olympic Gods. Still not on board with the concept of consent, and ruining his life is ok if they win a game. On a get back to Mount Olympus app with quests. Red flags dropped for triggering elements.
We need more of what we aren’t getting, the sweet romance story between a werewolf trying to recover from his own personal redemption arc (best part of the story). There’s sweet Gany , trying to get the courage to kiss Finn after his abusive history, true. However , for 80 percent of the narrative , the rest is the Gods trying to abduct Gany with no remorse to the ramifications on his life. That’s 80 percent. But what is more frustrating is that Gany has an outlet to stop his harassment and doesn’t use it.
A horrible message to send in a narrative. Someone who has been through a horrible experience, is undergoing it again, has a method to make it stop, and doesn’t use it.
All Gany has to do is call the Fates. Let them know the Gods have been at his house, have harassed him, broken the rules, and let them handle it. Instead, it’s a sort of juvenile “I’m gonna tell them if you don’t stop, no, really this time, gonna tell.” Which in tone and manner of that response negates the atmosphere, crime, the levels of seriousness, and basically everything else that Russell has established about the situation.
I just feel it went narratively sideways. Either use a totally different character, one not as tragic, although, yes, that’s tough given the Greek pantheon. Or maybe leave a game element out of it. Or Zeus. Because no one ever believes in Zeus and consent. It just doesn’t work.
The romance was sidelined and I thought they were terrific, along with the dogs. Too many ingredients did ruin the storytelling here. Too bad.
Trigger warnings for those who have issues with consent, non-consent, sexual harassment, sexual assault, and abduction.
Honestly, no recommendation. That’s the biggest surprise for me.
Rating: 2.75
E J Russell’s latest release is a book that should have worked for me. It doesn’t. Spoilers ahead. It’s all about a certain element, folks. Consent.
I love both of the series it mashes up, the Mythmatched and Purgatory Playhouse series, two hugely popular and entertaining universes. The theme of redemption and starting over is a great trope, full of emotionally charged elements for all characters.
But it depends on how it’s handled by the author and the framework for the redemption process. That’s part of why I feel that this book should come with a trigger warning.
At Odds with the Gods storyline deals with a previous tale where the gods from Mount Olympus are cast down and have to pay for their many crimes. One main trait of all the Gods is their inability to understand consent.
Note: In talking about my issues with the book I’m writing about some spoilers. If you don’t want to know, stop reading.
If you’re familiar with Greek mythology, and the Greek pantheon in particular, then you know how horrific their stories were. Abductions, forced marriages, rape, death, suicides, murder. Many coming out of arrogance or spontaneous decision making on the Gods end. Even Eros didn’t give people consent as is mentioned in the narrative. Just shot the arrows.
Ganymede, the son of the King of Troy, is a well known legend and figure in Greek mythology. A beautiful man who was abducted and sexually assaulted by Zeus who then carried Ganymede off to be his cup bearer/unwilling lover in Mount Olympus. For thousands of years.
Here, Russell’s given Ganymede a new life as a young “human” baker, released from Mt Olympus when the Fates handed down their verdict. Russell’s portrayal of Ganymede is that of a young man who is struggling with his years of captivity as a victim of sexual abuse/assault. But Russell’s treatment of this aspect of the character is flawed, imo, for many reasons. Ganymede is a tragic figure. Only strange tidbits of his time with the Gods is shared, certainly not the traumatic events or experiences he must have endured or seen during his time there. There’s no page time to discuss the topic, and the tone of the tale’s too light.
Russell’s story has elements of real darkness that aren’t being throughly explored or examined for what they are. The biggest issue being that of control/consent/non-consensual actions.
Ganymede has opened a bakery he loves. He’s happy. He’s got a crush on a werewolf (the other main character, and a great one). He’s ignorant about the supernatural world around him. Ok, for me that absolutely an odd thing about this world. He’s from Olympus but they don’t know about Supes? Anyway, who starts meddling in truly awful ways with his new life, his bakery, and trying to abduct him? A terrifying prospect, over and over. The Olympic Gods. Still not on board with the concept of consent, and ruining his life is ok if they win a game. On a get back to Mount Olympus app with quests. Red flags dropped for triggering elements.
We need more of what we aren’t getting, the sweet romance story between a werewolf trying to recover from his own personal redemption arc (best part of the story). There’s sweet Gany , trying to get the courage to kiss Finn after his abusive history, true. However , for 80 percent of the narrative , the rest is the Gods trying to abduct Gany with no remorse to the ramifications on his life. That’s 80 percent. But what is more frustrating is that Gany has an outlet to stop his harassment and doesn’t use it.
A horrible message to send in a narrative. Someone who has been through a horrible experience, is undergoing it again, has a method to make it stop, and doesn’t use it.
All Gany has to do is call the Fates. Let them know the Gods have been at his house, have harassed him, broken the rules, and let them handle it. Instead, it’s a sort of juvenile “I’m gonna tell them if you don’t stop, no, really this time, gonna tell.” Which in tone and manner of that response negates the atmosphere, crime, the levels of seriousness, and basically everything else that Russell has established about the situation.
I just feel it went narratively sideways. Either use a totally different character, one not as tragic, although, yes, that’s tough given the Greek pantheon. Or maybe leave a game element out of it. Or Zeus. Because no one ever believes in Zeus and consent. It just doesn’t work.
The romance was sidelined and I thought they were terrific, along with the dogs. Too many ingredients did ruin the storytelling here. Too bad.
Trigger warnings for those who have issues with consent, non-consent, sexual harassment, sexual assault, and abduction.
Honestly, no recommendation. That’s the biggest surprise for me.
November 2, 2023
Finn is living on the streets after his father poorly mistreated everyone in the shifter community. While most people assume he was apart of his dad's crimes and wanted to be just like him, that's just not true. He's as much of a victim as the others, no one truly understood that until he met Gary, aka, Gany. Finn only has a few dollars to his name and there's no place he'd rather spend it, no place he'd rather be, than at Nectar & Ambrosia, Gany's bakery.
Gany has spent a millennia being forced to do what others wants, never having a choice or a say. Being taken advantage of, and abused. After the gods get sentenced for treating him, among others so poorly, Gany was finally able to open his dream bakery! And as a bonus a sweet cute guy keeps visiting and talks to him most mornings. However, with both men assuming the other is human, will they be able to make a relationship work?
I absolutely adore this book!! I haven't read any of the two series that are mentioned, I read the blurb of this book and was immediately interested in reading it! I'll start off with the writing itself; it was really well done. Each and every character had their own personality, their own backstory, and their own quirk that just made them so unique! The scenery the book takes place in is primarily Gany's bakery, which was described quite well. It felt as though I was actually in a bakery, which was really cool! I love when a book features a character who not only enjoys baking but who also has their own bakery. I love that, it always make me so happy! Especially when it's done well, like how it was here.
I thought the buildup of the two MC's relationship was done adorably well,I adored all the cuteness that occured. Especially the scene where Finn was playing with not just one puppy, but three of them? Talk about cute!
I liked that both of these characters were clueless about the other, both of them assuming one another is human, when in fact neither of them are.
Overall this book was packed full of sweetness, not just because of the baked goods but also the sweetness that occurs between the characters. I really hope Peyton will get their own chance at love soon!
Gany has spent a millennia being forced to do what others wants, never having a choice or a say. Being taken advantage of, and abused. After the gods get sentenced for treating him, among others so poorly, Gany was finally able to open his dream bakery! And as a bonus a sweet cute guy keeps visiting and talks to him most mornings. However, with both men assuming the other is human, will they be able to make a relationship work?
I absolutely adore this book!! I haven't read any of the two series that are mentioned, I read the blurb of this book and was immediately interested in reading it! I'll start off with the writing itself; it was really well done. Each and every character had their own personality, their own backstory, and their own quirk that just made them so unique! The scenery the book takes place in is primarily Gany's bakery, which was described quite well. It felt as though I was actually in a bakery, which was really cool! I love when a book features a character who not only enjoys baking but who also has their own bakery. I love that, it always make me so happy! Especially when it's done well, like how it was here.
I thought the buildup of the two MC's relationship was done adorably well,I adored all the cuteness that occured. Especially the scene where Finn was playing with not just one puppy, but three of them? Talk about cute!
I liked that both of these characters were clueless about the other, both of them assuming one another is human, when in fact neither of them are.
Overall this book was packed full of sweetness, not just because of the baked goods but also the sweetness that occurs between the characters. I really hope Peyton will get their own chance at love soon!
January 20, 2026
This was a very cute, short book with a fun cast. I've become enamored with this world and the characters. It's always such a fun, cute, interesting and enjoyable experience. The plot itself isn't complicated and some of the characters can be repetitive but... still great.
I liked seeing the cast back again. I was originally going to listen to this but then noted that it was also Purgatory Playhouse so had to figure out what that as/listen to it first. It was a great melding between worlds.
And this was another great addition.
I was also interesting for the way in which the 'supe' world was introduced and that they all pretty much knew but didn't. Was an interesting way to go about things in this one.
Especially enjoyed seeing how Finn's part/place in life was going here and to see that, even though it wasn't great to start with, it was working on a great path and did so to get where they were. Felt his perspective hard here and was so appreciative. Wasn't his fault his father was a POS but he still owned his shit and how he was when younger.
As with most books of this series, don't read them alone. There are certain ones where you can but they really make sense more overall if you read them all in complete order. I definitely read some out of order since I've been listening through Audible and can attest to this. However, on that same vein, they've been in and out of being "free" so... Could still go by that (mostly).
Liked the pups and Finn with them. The gods app was ridiculous but also... appropriate.
Anyway, Greg Boudreaux did an amazing job as always and this was fun as is the rest of the Mythmatched series.
I liked seeing the cast back again. I was originally going to listen to this but then noted that it was also Purgatory Playhouse so had to figure out what that as/listen to it first. It was a great melding between worlds.
And this was another great addition.
I was also interesting for the way in which the 'supe' world was introduced and that they all pretty much knew but didn't. Was an interesting way to go about things in this one.
Especially enjoyed seeing how Finn's part/place in life was going here and to see that, even though it wasn't great to start with, it was working on a great path and did so to get where they were. Felt his perspective hard here and was so appreciative. Wasn't his fault his father was a POS but he still owned his shit and how he was when younger.
As with most books of this series, don't read them alone. There are certain ones where you can but they really make sense more overall if you read them all in complete order. I definitely read some out of order since I've been listening through Audible and can attest to this. However, on that same vein, they've been in and out of being "free" so... Could still go by that (mostly).
Liked the pups and Finn with them. The gods app was ridiculous but also... appropriate.
Anyway, Greg Boudreaux did an amazing job as always and this was fun as is the rest of the Mythmatched series.
April 22, 2026
A delightful book that I found to be quirky, unique, and overall sweet!
I stumbled upon this because it was a free listen on Audible and I was familiar with the narrator. I went into this knowing nothing about this author or the world in which this book takes place. While I had admittedly low expectations, I ended up really enjoying this read.
While the overall arc of the story was fairly predictable, there were some really fun and refreshing elements to the story.
The first thing I enjoyed was that even though there was some really heavy stuff that had happened to each character in the past, this book was mostly lighthearted, low angst, and sweet. I totally see how the lighthearted tone of this story doesn’t fit with each character’s severe backstory, and I get how that would feel disjointed (at best) or triggering for some readers. But for me I enjoyed the escapist, things can work out okay, tone of this book.
The second thing that I really enjoyed was the idea of technology intersecting with Greek mythology. The idea of Greek gods trying to score good-person points that were measured by a mythical app was something that I found really interesting and unlike anything I had read before. It was just a really fun idea.
I also liked Gany and Finn. They just worked together.
If you want a fun, quirky, rom-com style fantasy book that sugar-coats some past traumas and skips the third-act breakup in favor of characters who are there to support each other, then this is a book worth considering.
I stumbled upon this because it was a free listen on Audible and I was familiar with the narrator. I went into this knowing nothing about this author or the world in which this book takes place. While I had admittedly low expectations, I ended up really enjoying this read.
While the overall arc of the story was fairly predictable, there were some really fun and refreshing elements to the story.
The first thing I enjoyed was that even though there was some really heavy stuff that had happened to each character in the past, this book was mostly lighthearted, low angst, and sweet. I totally see how the lighthearted tone of this story doesn’t fit with each character’s severe backstory, and I get how that would feel disjointed (at best) or triggering for some readers. But for me I enjoyed the escapist, things can work out okay, tone of this book.
The second thing that I really enjoyed was the idea of technology intersecting with Greek mythology. The idea of Greek gods trying to score good-person points that were measured by a mythical app was something that I found really interesting and unlike anything I had read before. It was just a really fun idea.
I also liked Gany and Finn. They just worked together.
If you want a fun, quirky, rom-com style fantasy book that sugar-coats some past traumas and skips the third-act breakup in favor of characters who are there to support each other, then this is a book worth considering.
November 5, 2023
I adore EJ Russell's wit and creativity in her stories! I've read Purgatory Playhouse and was hoping Russell would write Ganymede's story, and here it is! Makes it even cooler that it's a Mythmatched crossover.
Anyway. Finn has a whole parental guilt thing (his dad did some major crime) and Gany has a whole lot of trauma because Zeus was horny. They meet, like each other, but each think the other is a normal human (no idea about the coextisting worlds obviously). Shenanigans ensue.
It was a cute little book! I loved the cameos from a few Mythmatched characters and also TD, Lonnie, and the three pups that Cerberus transformed into.
The only problem with it, I think, will come for people who read this without any background. There's not much world building (for either world) in this book because...well, both worlds have already been built in other books. I loved it, though, because I've read books from both worlds and know the characters' backgrounds. So...my advice is to read at least Purgatory Playhouse but preferably also Howling on Hold before this as you'd then get a bit of an idea about the characters and the world(s).
Also, it's totally unfair this book is only 144 pages long. I would have loved to see more of the characters!
(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review)
Anyway. Finn has a whole parental guilt thing (his dad did some major crime) and Gany has a whole lot of trauma because Zeus was horny. They meet, like each other, but each think the other is a normal human (no idea about the coextisting worlds obviously). Shenanigans ensue.
It was a cute little book! I loved the cameos from a few Mythmatched characters and also TD, Lonnie, and the three pups that Cerberus transformed into.
The only problem with it, I think, will come for people who read this without any background. There's not much world building (for either world) in this book because...well, both worlds have already been built in other books. I loved it, though, because I've read books from both worlds and know the characters' backgrounds. So...my advice is to read at least Purgatory Playhouse but preferably also Howling on Hold before this as you'd then get a bit of an idea about the characters and the world(s).
Also, it's totally unfair this book is only 144 pages long. I would have loved to see more of the characters!
(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review)
November 9, 2023
I am a massive fan of EJ's Mythmatched and Quest Investigations world and so was really looking forward to this. It brings those worlds and the Purgatory Playhouse together.
Finn and Gany have been through a lot, individually, though Ganymede's did last several thousand years on Olympus. It's sweet how they have been secretly pining after each other but now it's the last day Finn can afford to buy a drink there and the day Gany decides to at least make his interest known. What it turns into is a day of unwelcome visitors, entertaining characters, and a blossoming relationship as they work to get Gany through his first wedding cake job.
Characters from both worlds take part, though this is also easy to read as a stand alone. Finn has to deal with hitting rock bottom and pulling himself up whilst forgiving himself for the actions of his father and accepting his pack back into his life. Gany had to put up with people from his past who hurt him and others showing up with not the purest of intentions. I enjoyed him and Finn standing up for him and the narcissism of some of them!
EJ always gives a perfectly balanced story of character and relationship development with comedy, romance, and a hint of drama along with a wonderful found family feel of eclectic people.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
Finn and Gany have been through a lot, individually, though Ganymede's did last several thousand years on Olympus. It's sweet how they have been secretly pining after each other but now it's the last day Finn can afford to buy a drink there and the day Gany decides to at least make his interest known. What it turns into is a day of unwelcome visitors, entertaining characters, and a blossoming relationship as they work to get Gany through his first wedding cake job.
Characters from both worlds take part, though this is also easy to read as a stand alone. Finn has to deal with hitting rock bottom and pulling himself up whilst forgiving himself for the actions of his father and accepting his pack back into his life. Gany had to put up with people from his past who hurt him and others showing up with not the purest of intentions. I enjoyed him and Finn standing up for him and the narcissism of some of them!
EJ always gives a perfectly balanced story of character and relationship development with comedy, romance, and a hint of drama along with a wonderful found family feel of eclectic people.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
November 22, 2023
I love the Mythmatched universe, enjoyed Purgatory Playhouse, and am a huge fan of crossovers. This story ticked all those boxes and more. I loved how Finn and Gany’s worlds collide – it doesn’t take much – and how both of them are trying to hide the truth from each other, which soon becomes impossible thanks to meddling gods who really don’t get what making amends means.
I loved both Finn and Gany, individually and together. Finn’s a good guy whose father has a lot to answer for. I loved how he bonds with the pups, and his explanation to Gany about why. I also loved how he lets Gany have control in setting the pace of their relationship and only doing what he’s comfortable with. Gany’s bakery sounds wonderful. I love how he calls out the Olympians’ behaviour, stands his ground, and tries to help Finn. The scene where Finn steps in to help Gany is all kinds of awesome.
The scenes with the Olympians are fun, although they need to grow a whole forest of clues. I love the author’s worldbuilding, especially the details like the app the gods are using, and the cameos from both worlds.
I loved how everything comes together with the bakery and the pack in a satisfying HEA. I hope we haven’t seen the last of these two especially now their two worlds officially now exist side by side.
I loved both Finn and Gany, individually and together. Finn’s a good guy whose father has a lot to answer for. I loved how he bonds with the pups, and his explanation to Gany about why. I also loved how he lets Gany have control in setting the pace of their relationship and only doing what he’s comfortable with. Gany’s bakery sounds wonderful. I love how he calls out the Olympians’ behaviour, stands his ground, and tries to help Finn. The scene where Finn steps in to help Gany is all kinds of awesome.
The scenes with the Olympians are fun, although they need to grow a whole forest of clues. I love the author’s worldbuilding, especially the details like the app the gods are using, and the cameos from both worlds.
I loved how everything comes together with the bakery and the pack in a satisfying HEA. I hope we haven’t seen the last of these two especially now their two worlds officially now exist side by side.
November 13, 2023
Fun new story by Russell that combines her Mythmatched universe with characters from "Purgatory Playhouse". I have to admit that I was a bit skeptical about the combination but it worked pretty well. Finn is a cousin to Tanner, alpha of the local werewolf pack, and finds himself down on his luck as he finds himself attracted to baker Gary. Both Finn and Gary are hiding secrets from one another as Gary is also known as Ganymede, one of the victims freed in "Purgatory Playhouse", and of course, Finn isn't allowed to reveal his supernatural origins to someone who is "human".
Finn helps Gary deal with a series of mishaps that are the result of the gods deciding to interfere in Gary's life again, and in so doing their relationship takes some pretty strong steps forward. I liked both Finn and Gary in this book, but the zany antics of the other characters definitely help propel the story, such as Eros, Del, and others, including the "puppies".
My only reluctance on recommending the book would be whether or not someone could come into the story without having read any of the other books. It would be somewhat difficult but the book could probably work as a standalone story. It's definitely a refreshing and funny book for all the fans of Russell, myself included.
Finn helps Gary deal with a series of mishaps that are the result of the gods deciding to interfere in Gary's life again, and in so doing their relationship takes some pretty strong steps forward. I liked both Finn and Gary in this book, but the zany antics of the other characters definitely help propel the story, such as Eros, Del, and others, including the "puppies".
My only reluctance on recommending the book would be whether or not someone could come into the story without having read any of the other books. It would be somewhat difficult but the book could probably work as a standalone story. It's definitely a refreshing and funny book for all the fans of Russell, myself included.
November 14, 2023
This book is a Mythmatched/Purgatory Playhouse crossover that I was able to fully enjoy without having read all of both series. This is the story of Finn Lassiter and Ganymede (Gary). Finn is a werewolf shifter who is drowning under the sea of shame that is not his to bear. He is assuming that all werewolves will blame him for his father atrocious actions. Down to his last dollar, he goes to the Nectar & Ambrosia bakery to enjoy the ambiance and the baker one last time. Gary is enjoying his freedom to do as he wishes. He loves his bakery. And he is very interested in Finn. While both Finn and Gary are attracted to each other, neither one makes a move to start anything. However, the Olympians begin to cause problems for Gary while trying to earn points on their atonement app. When Finn explains that he will be leaving the next day; Gary comes up with a plan to help Finn and keep him in town. When they arrive at Gary's house sit we get to meet the trio of pups - Sir, Bear, and Ozzie. A new pack is formed but the challenges keep coming. This is their story. It is well written and easy to read. I really enjoyed it.
I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 15, 2025
Harassed by the Gods of Olympus over the eons, Ganymede (aka Gary) just wants to be left alone to run his bakery / cafe. Shamed werewolf shifter Finn Lassiter is feeling alone and unloved ever since his ambitious father unwittingly released a deadly curse on the entire supe population that they’re are still angry about. He can’t face his pack so he’s got no money, no job, and nowhere to live. He doesn’t even know why he’s in Gary’s cafe, he can’t afford to order anything. Luckily Ganymede has a big heart and a soft spot for Finn; unluckily, strange things seem to be happening to Ganymede’s cooking.
This short novella (175 pages) wasn’t a favourite. It is a Mythmatched / Purgatory Playhouse crossover with characters from both so it was a little confusing at first trying to get a handle on the different characters and their histories. I also find that EJ Russell tends to use the slow reveal with veiled hints about a character’s past which can be confusing until she spells it out—her books can require patience but she always explains things eventually. Anyway, it’s a brief stepping stone in the excellent Mythmatched series. 🎧 The always excellent Greg Boudreaux works his usual audio magic!
This short novella (175 pages) wasn’t a favourite. It is a Mythmatched / Purgatory Playhouse crossover with characters from both so it was a little confusing at first trying to get a handle on the different characters and their histories. I also find that EJ Russell tends to use the slow reveal with veiled hints about a character’s past which can be confusing until she spells it out—her books can require patience but she always explains things eventually. Anyway, it’s a brief stepping stone in the excellent Mythmatched series. 🎧 The always excellent Greg Boudreaux works his usual audio magic!
November 6, 2023
E.J. Russell loves to play with the fae, both in the real world and faerie, plus the mythical/archetypal (demons, vampires, werewolves, etc.). Somehow these creatures manage to maintain their existence to be secret from the humans.
Werewolf Finn Lassiter struggles to overcome his own feelings of guilt over his father’s criminal actions. Ganymede, former cup-bearer of the gods, is finally free of the abusive deities who held him in virtual slavery for millennia. As Gary Mead, Gany is pursuing his dreams as a bakery/café owner, and working with a therapist to overcome the trauma left by eons of abuse.. Finn allows himself one indulgence per day, a cup of tea at Gany’s café.
The gods, however, are still pursuing Gany, trying to earn points in a game to get back to Olympus – and to ruin Gany’s business to force him to return to a life of servitude.
This is a fun crossover story that stands alone, and is full of brief cameos by characters from other stories to entertain Russell’s many fans. I highly recommend it.
Werewolf Finn Lassiter struggles to overcome his own feelings of guilt over his father’s criminal actions. Ganymede, former cup-bearer of the gods, is finally free of the abusive deities who held him in virtual slavery for millennia. As Gary Mead, Gany is pursuing his dreams as a bakery/café owner, and working with a therapist to overcome the trauma left by eons of abuse.. Finn allows himself one indulgence per day, a cup of tea at Gany’s café.
The gods, however, are still pursuing Gany, trying to earn points in a game to get back to Olympus – and to ruin Gany’s business to force him to return to a life of servitude.
This is a fun crossover story that stands alone, and is full of brief cameos by characters from other stories to entertain Russell’s many fans. I highly recommend it.
January 9, 2024
This is decidedly not a stand-alone story -- at the very minimum, you should have read Howling on Hold, Witch Under Wraps, Cursed is the Worst, and Purgatory Playhouse before this one. Since I have read ask those, it was wonderful to see so many characters here, along with Finn and Gany, who deserve every good thing in their lives, including each other!
November 8, 2023
4.5 Stars!
At Odds with the Gods is part of the Mythmatched/Purgatory Playhouse universes, featuring Finn, a werewolf in the path of redemption, and Gany, who is trying to rebuild his life now that he's finally free of the Olympians.
Who doesn't love a great redemption story? I, for one, am a big fan, and I loved that Finn got his chance to earn his HEA. He was such a sweetheart to Gany, treating him with the utmost respect and giving him the time Gany needed to feel more confident in their relationship. And Gany gave Finn the confidence he needed to find his inner alpha and to reach out to his friends for help. They were just amazing together.
Overall, a fun, fast-paced read set in this fantastic universe created by Ms. Russell. Gany and Finn were great, the puppies were adorable and I loved the cameos. I'll be looking forward to more!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
At Odds with the Gods is part of the Mythmatched/Purgatory Playhouse universes, featuring Finn, a werewolf in the path of redemption, and Gany, who is trying to rebuild his life now that he's finally free of the Olympians.
Who doesn't love a great redemption story? I, for one, am a big fan, and I loved that Finn got his chance to earn his HEA. He was such a sweetheart to Gany, treating him with the utmost respect and giving him the time Gany needed to feel more confident in their relationship. And Gany gave Finn the confidence he needed to find his inner alpha and to reach out to his friends for help. They were just amazing together.
Overall, a fun, fast-paced read set in this fantastic universe created by Ms. Russell. Gany and Finn were great, the puppies were adorable and I loved the cameos. I'll be looking forward to more!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
November 6, 2023
At odds with the Gods is a fun Mythmatched/Purgatory Playhouse crossover. It could be read as a standalone because the author explains some important things about both worlds and introduces the characters before chapter one.
In this book we follow Ganymede and Finn. Ganymede was kidnapped by Zeus thousands of years ago and was taken to Olympus where he was abused by the Gods. Now he is free and owns a bakery.
Finn is a werewolf and is haunted by his father's criminal actions. He's alone, broke and homeless. The only light in his life is the time he spends at Gany's bakery.
The two of them are attracted to each other but Gany doesn't feel ready to make a move because he's still healing from his trauma and Finn is afraid to admit his feelings because he is ashamed and thinks he has nothing to offer.
This was an absolutely wonderful story. It was fun and sweet but it was also powerful. It was a story about forgiveness, healing and redemption. Finn and Gany warmed my heart. They've both been through so much, they deserved their happy ending.
Something that I found extremely entertaining was how the greek Gods were punished for their actions and what they had to do to redeem themselves. Very clever. And I honestly would love to read more about it.
If you enjoy paranormal romance I highly recommend At odds with the Gods.
In this book we follow Ganymede and Finn. Ganymede was kidnapped by Zeus thousands of years ago and was taken to Olympus where he was abused by the Gods. Now he is free and owns a bakery.
Finn is a werewolf and is haunted by his father's criminal actions. He's alone, broke and homeless. The only light in his life is the time he spends at Gany's bakery.
The two of them are attracted to each other but Gany doesn't feel ready to make a move because he's still healing from his trauma and Finn is afraid to admit his feelings because he is ashamed and thinks he has nothing to offer.
This was an absolutely wonderful story. It was fun and sweet but it was also powerful. It was a story about forgiveness, healing and redemption. Finn and Gany warmed my heart. They've both been through so much, they deserved their happy ending.
Something that I found extremely entertaining was how the greek Gods were punished for their actions and what they had to do to redeem themselves. Very clever. And I honestly would love to read more about it.
If you enjoy paranormal romance I highly recommend At odds with the Gods.
November 3, 2023
Recipes
Aah, I’m so tickled that Gany and Finn found their HEA! I’ve not read all the Mythmatched books but they’re written so wonderfully that you can start anywhere and not feel lost, and the notes at the beginning of this book quickly catch you up. From magical mishaps to enchanting cakes, I love this world full of sweetness, friendships, pack, and joy.
“Why do I feel so safe in your arms?”
“Because you are… I will never, ever let anything bad happen to you.”
“I know… I’ve always known.”
Finn and Gany had me shaking my head at the gods (obtuse much?), chuckling at three rambunctious puppies, squealing with happiness that the perfect recipe for happiness and love is never out of reach.
Aah, I’m so tickled that Gany and Finn found their HEA! I’ve not read all the Mythmatched books but they’re written so wonderfully that you can start anywhere and not feel lost, and the notes at the beginning of this book quickly catch you up. From magical mishaps to enchanting cakes, I love this world full of sweetness, friendships, pack, and joy.
“Why do I feel so safe in your arms?”
“Because you are… I will never, ever let anything bad happen to you.”
“I know… I’ve always known.”
Finn and Gany had me shaking my head at the gods (obtuse much?), chuckling at three rambunctious puppies, squealing with happiness that the perfect recipe for happiness and love is never out of reach.
January 11, 2026
A lovely, lovely novella - and that's the only reason for only 4,4 stars: I'd have looooved to remain longer with Finn and Ganymede. Both are such sypathetic characters.
There are glimpses that Finn has a part in Tanner's story (Howling at the Moon?), so I guess I have to bite the bullet and ALSO listen to that title.
EJ Russel's series are just so soothing - you know it'll turn out well as they are romances, but all of the characters feel so fleshed out and she has a knack of including characters of former (or later) books that just feels organic and never overpowering. The sense of community is GREAT. I wish I didn't near the end of the backlist... please, please, please give us new material!!
There are glimpses that Finn has a part in Tanner's story (Howling at the Moon?), so I guess I have to bite the bullet and ALSO listen to that title.
EJ Russel's series are just so soothing - you know it'll turn out well as they are romances, but all of the characters feel so fleshed out and she has a knack of including characters of former (or later) books that just feels organic and never overpowering. The sense of community is GREAT. I wish I didn't near the end of the backlist... please, please, please give us new material!!
November 7, 2023
4.5 stars
Such a fun story that blends Greek mythological figures with paranormal beings. Tiptoeing around the secrecy pact that forbids informing humans of all of those "other" beings among them leads to a wonderful challenge of getting things done without spilling the beans, especially when random Greek gods keep popping up. I adore the trio of puppies (Sir, Bear, and Oz) that are the current incarnation of Cerberus, and the various cameos by beloved characters in the various series penned by this talented author. A great addition to the collection. I can't wait to find out what new adventures are percolating!
A copy was provided for review.
Such a fun story that blends Greek mythological figures with paranormal beings. Tiptoeing around the secrecy pact that forbids informing humans of all of those "other" beings among them leads to a wonderful challenge of getting things done without spilling the beans, especially when random Greek gods keep popping up. I adore the trio of puppies (Sir, Bear, and Oz) that are the current incarnation of Cerberus, and the various cameos by beloved characters in the various series penned by this talented author. A great addition to the collection. I can't wait to find out what new adventures are percolating!
A copy was provided for review.
November 12, 2023
Finn and Gany are so adorable.
With everything they've both suffered through they absolutely have every right to want to just give up on life.
They don't though and they very much take everything in stride.
The pups were really protective and so cute.
I really enjoyed seeing Gany stand up for himself and repell the God's attempts to interfere with his life once again.
Finn felt as though he failed his pack and all those his father used and hurt.
He guilt had him trying to shoulder the blame for his actions but he swallowed his pride and asked for forgiveness.
This was a funny, cute and sweet short novella.
With everything they've both suffered through they absolutely have every right to want to just give up on life.
They don't though and they very much take everything in stride.
The pups were really protective and so cute.
I really enjoyed seeing Gany stand up for himself and repell the God's attempts to interfere with his life once again.
Finn felt as though he failed his pack and all those his father used and hurt.
He guilt had him trying to shoulder the blame for his actions but he swallowed his pride and asked for forgiveness.
This was a funny, cute and sweet short novella.
November 17, 2023
This was such a cute and heartwarming booking that you couldn't help but fall in love with the characters. I loved that it had the Greek Mythology twist to it along with supernaturals. Gany and Finn made such a cute and loving couple. They just melt your heart. Gany a cupbearer to the Greek Gods finally gets away and starts his own life while Finn is down on his luck with not a penny to his name after his father tried to harm the supernatural community find love and companionship in each other. I really enjoyed reading this book loved the easiness between them and antics of the Gods was funny as all get out.
July 10, 2024
A fun story and a good crossover! It definitely seems that you need to be caught up on both of these series to get the larger backstory going on here, from Finn's past and pack-less-ness to Gany's past and issues with the gods. But on the surface there is a story that works with just knowing that Gany has Greek gods out to bother him while Finn is homeless and regretting actions in his past. The way that the two of them work together and also how they fit so well, really understanding the things they have to deal with even when they are such different things, and truly seeing each others needs and wants and supporting them. A fun story, a great crossover, and an easy read!
November 3, 2023
Oh my stars! Finn and Gany…er Gary…were so perfectly adorable!!!!!!! I absolutely loved this! I am a huge fan of both of these worlds by EJ Russell and this cross-over between the two was sublime! Btw, I love Sir, Ozzie, and Bear aka Cerberus. They were such good doggos. Finn doesn’t believe he deserves anything good due to his ever so lovely father. Gary has issues with intimacy and is just trying to make his bakery a success. This quick read was just amazeballs. If you haven’t already, you must go read Purgatory Playhouse and the Mythmatched Universe books.
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