Breaking Fate

Dark Gods Rising #2

by S.M. McCoy, Sky Robert

In a world of gods and monsters, prophecy and fate sway hearts and minds until a monster rises to rule them all, and darkness rises on Olympus.

"A Medusa who is worthy of admiration." - Amazon Reviewer

The continuation of the award-winning Taking Medusa, Dark Gods Rising Series.

My blood can cure death, but it can also be the deadliest poison on Earth, and the gods will try to kill me just for existing. Hades wants me to join him, Poseidon wants to groom me into his queen, and Zeus is still bitter about an age-old prophecy that the dark gods, the monsters of Tartarus, will rule Olympus.

All I know for certain is the gods have mistreated us ‘monsters’ long enough, and I’m yanking through the ribbons of fate to change my history before I’m beheaded all over again.

My name is Alessandra, most call me Aless, and I had no idea my family was more than just superstitious, they were hiding me from the gods, and lying about who I was.

I was Medusa.

And now that the gods have found me… I’m stuck in the Underworld until I can return a favor that could cost me everything.


Using current known Greek myths as we know them and retelling them from Medusa’s perspective. After all, history is written by the victors, and the bards got the story all wrong. Poets were influenced by the reigning Olympians, and Medusa still lives and she's fighting through fate to become whole so she can save the very gods that wish to destroy her to keep the one who's stolen her heart.

A paranormal myth and legends adventure romance, plot with spice, that will have you flipping pages well past your bedtime to know what happens next as the dark gods rise up and prove being a hero is a matter of perspective and plot twists that will have you squirming for more.

TW: references to a past of non-consent, there are no on-page instances of non-consent, spicy scenes meant for adult audiences 18+ consensual steam

Genres: Mythology, Retellings, Fantasy Romance, Paranormal, Romantasy, Fantasy

242 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 2, 2024

About the author

Stevie Marie is a paranormal fantasy author born within the apex of another universe, where magic flows like leaky faucets. Forged from the fires of the Underrealm she dug her way to Earth reluctantly participating in human society, secretly returning to her home world within her mind to relay the stories of her monsters, and the troubled love of her dark heroes. When she isn’t writing she’s crafting clothing in her sewing room, cuddling her tiny humans, or pretending to adult by narrating audiobooks in the rainy city of Seattle, Washington.

Grab your first free book by joining S.M. McCoy's Fantasy Romance Newsletter: https://www.subscribepage.com/freeboo...

Connect with Stevie Marie at:
https://linktr.ee/authorsteviemarie
www.steviemarie.com
Twitter @AuthorMarie

Reviews

[S.M. McCoy]

We are LIvE!! Pew pew pew!

Add Breaking Fate to your TBR!! And Check out Book One Taking Medusa, winner of the N.N. Light's Book Haven 2023 Romantasy Book Award, 1st place in fantasy romance for Paranormal Romance Guild's Reviewer's Choice Awards 2023, and winner of Mythology category of the Fire Bird Speak-up Talk Radio Book Awards.

Greek Mythology retelling of Medusa, Slow-burn romance, fantasy adventure in the Underworld, he calls her "Little Terror" and the fate of the deathless gods hinges on this fated mate romance!

[LaWanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love this book! Even though I reallllly strongly dislike cliffhangers, it was still amazing. I did see the twist coming, but I've read ALOT of books, so it's kinda hard to surprise me nowadays. I like this version of Medusa and the Olympians better than other books I've read before. You definitely need to have read book one first. I can not wait to read the last book when it's written. Her writing just keeps you reading long after bedtime. I have loved every book I've read by this author, and I'm so glad I found her books.
I'm thrilled to be on her ARC team and get this book early. These thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Charlene (pageandplace) · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this Reimagining of Medusa, the Gods are at the mercy of the Fates and of prophecy. Medusa, Aless, is caught between two brothers Hades and Poseidon and a deal/favor that could cost her everything, including her heart.

Debts will be paid and is a gift truly a gift when it comes from a God? Who can you trust when you are also on your own journey of self discovery?
Welcome to the Underworld, full of Gods, demons and shades, please hand over your coin and join us on the River Styx.

Once I got set up with who the characters were and who was talking it was a lot easier to get through the book! Great world building and descriptions throughout. Definitely picked up the pace at the end and dropped a cliffhanger!

Absolutely love Medusa and this is a fantastic reimagining! Thank you to the author SM McCoy and Happily Booked PR, for the opportunity to read this epub. My review is being left voluntarily.

[Sky Robert]

What if Medusa isn't the villain?
We are LIVE!!! You can read today with Kindle Unlimited!

Out of context quote:
"The gods know better than to tempt a curse like that." He saw the way my face fell, and he sputtered another awkward attempt at talking me out of it. "I didn't say it to upset you. F-ck. Ugh, it was supposed to make you feel better. Because, you know, the gates were closed before, and they'll be reopened again. That was centuries ago and even at his scariest, he didn't actually go around killing all the gods. You'll live. That's what I was trying to say. Zeus' Light, I'm bad at this, aren't I? F-ck."
Any guesses who said this?
Hint: He protects Atlantis and often has no pants.

[Rebel · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a lover of mythology and stories where chaos reigns and trust is fragile, "Breaking Fate: A Greek Myth Monster Retelling" by S.M. McCoy was an exhilarating journey that reimagined the tales of the gods and monsters I hold dear. This continuation of the award-winning "Taking Medusa" in the Dark Gods Rising Series delves deeper into Medusa’s complex character, offering a fresh perspective on her narrative and turning her into a heroine worthy of admiration.

Medusa’s struggle is both internal and external, as she navigates her pact with the enigmatic King of the Underworld. The author skillfully portrays her growth as she learns to embrace her formidable power and conquer the darkness within. The theme of reconciling past truths and accepting control over her future resonated deeply with me, as Medusa’s journey mirrors the universal quest for self-discovery and empowerment. The depiction of her transformation from a maligned monster to a figure of strength and determination is both inspiring and captivating.

The dynamic between Medusa, Hades, and Poseidon is fraught with tension and intrigue, perfectly capturing the manipulative nature of the gods. McCoy's portrayal of these deities as complex, morally ambiguous characters adds depth to the story, making it a thrilling read. Medusa's alliances, both new and old, bring unexpected twists and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat, eager to see how she would reclaim her destiny.

The slow-burn romance threaded through the narrative adds an emotional layer that enriches the plot. Medusa's heart becomes a pivotal element in her fight against fate, challenging the notion that her story is solely defined by tragedy. This romantic subplot, defying prophecy and expectations, brought a tender and humanizing aspect to Medusa's character, making her struggles and victories all the more poignant.

"Breaking Fate" also stands out for its innovative retelling of well-known Greek myths from Medusa's perspective. The idea that history is written by the victors, and that Medusa’s true story has been distorted by the bards of Olympus, adds a compelling layer to the narrative. This fresh take on mythological history is both thought-provoking and satisfying, as it allows readers to question and reinterpret the stories they’ve always known.

S.M. McCoy's writing is engaging and immersive, pulling readers into a world where the lines between heroism and villainy blur, and where the gods' manipulations are as intricate as they are deadly. The plot twists are expertly crafted, leaving me eager for more as the dark gods rise and Medusa's fate unfolds.

"Breaking Fate: A Greek Myth Monster Retelling" is a must-read for fans of mythological retellings, slow-burn fantasy romance, and stories of powerful women reclaiming their destinies. It's a thrilling adventure that will keep you flipping pages late into the night, immersed in Medusa's fight for freedom and the fate of the gods. If you enjoy tales where danger and suspense intertwine with romance and myth, this book is a perfect addition to your collection.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Ketty · Rating 5 out of 5]

- Medusa Retelling
- Greek Mythology with a twist
- Fates mates
- Badass FMC
- Slowburn

We pick up right where book one left off; Aless is trapped in the underworld to fulfill her deal with Hades to protect the dark gods.

I lost all my notes I had written for this book because my orange cat kitten decided that my soup looked better on my notebook instead of my bowl. I disagree but what do I know? I am jot a five week old kitten, they know better. So I'm just going to wing the review.

This take on the well-known mythology (and even the lesser know ) continues to be fantastic. I will admit I had to go and look up a few things a couple times because I couldn't remember what the "real" story was, but that's part of the fun for me. It's been fun experience to relearn and then see the difference in the story.

Aless/Medusa continues to be an ever evolving badass main character, she is learning and growing and figuring herself out while navigating the whole crazy situation she has found herself in. Prophecies and romance, gods, deals, it's a lot. I love her. I love the complex relationships. It's all delicious.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

In a world of gods and monsters, prophecy and fate sway hearts and minds until a monster rises to rule them all, and darkness rises on Olympus.

This slow-burn fantasy adventure romance that defies prophecy in the continuation of Medusa's untold story is page-turning with exceptional world-building and characters that are resilient, captivating, and realistic. Their journey is enthralling with being caught a deal with the King of the Underworld, Medusa must learn to embrace her power and conquer the darkness in her own mind to protect the dark gods and free herself from the ties that bind her, drama, using current known Greek myths as we know them and retelling them form Medusa's perspective, the lives of the deathless gods hang in the balance, paranormal myth and legends adventure romance, plot with spice, fated mates, Greek mythology, gods and monsters, heartfelt emotions, action, and more. I recommend reading this book by an extraordinary author who knows how to captivate her readers' hearts and attention with breaking fate and a Greek myth monster retelling that is sure to transport readers into a world that is wild and unforgettable.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[firebreathingb1tchqueen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’d like to thank the author for the advanced copy of this book! I appreciate your trust.

After reading Taking Medusa, I couldn’t wait to see how Aless’s fate would unravel! I was instantly sucked in as Aless uncovered memories from her forgotten past self(selves?) and slowly started to come into her own personality, despite her prophecy and past lives. I LOVED the tension between Aless, Hades and Poseidon. It was deliciously torturous and kept me furiously tearing through this story for another taste (and another!) Once again, every time I felt I had a twist figured out, McCoy spun me around in circles, leaving me shocked with each new revelation. Every layer peeled back left me desperate to get to the core of this mystery of fates and desires. I was excited to get to the ending and find what Aless chose, but I was still left hungry for more! I cannot wait to see where McCoy will lead me in the next installment. What an absolute ride!

[S · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved how the storyline flows from book 1 to 2 and it leaves it at a cliffhanger for 3, I can think of so many other stories that could be added from the other characters that could make a whole universe all to its own. Aless is still working on making herself ‘whole’, and all sorts of fun tribulations, a quick meeting with her father, and honest to goodness I see two kings of their realms that want nothing more than to live as mortals and be done ruling. I wonder if the other brother is the same with his thoughts and they cause their own turmoil with tricks and deceit from each other that none are aware of what each truly want, and I feel she is the key to fixing everything. I love how headstrong she is and her compassion for others isn’t seen as a threat even in the underworld.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Veronica Hooper · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great follow up to Taking Medusa (book 1 in the Dark God's Rising series!) I love how it picked right up from book 1.

This was book 2 and the mythological lore is on point!!

This book is exciting and has some unexpected twists!

I love how Aless (Medusa) is such a strong and ever-evolving FMC. You will find yourself completely wrapped up in this series and anxiously awaiting book 3!!

I received an ebook advance review copy and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Lisa Bentley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this one even more than the first!! So many surprises and action and angst at every turn.
I’m kinda rooting for Hades to be honest and hope Aless ends up with him in the end.
That cliffhanger was rough and I’m sitting here impatiently waiting for the next book to drop so I can find out what’s going to happen next!
Aless I just adore! She was kick ass in the first book and just gets more so as the story moves along.
Highly recommend for those who love Greek mythology and a ton of tension!

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent follow-up to Taking Medusa (Book 1 of the Dark Gods Rising series!). This was book two, and the fabled mythology is spot on. This novel is fascinating and takes unexpected turns! I like how Aless (Medusa) is a powerful and ever-changing FMC. You will be completely interested in this series and eagerly awaiting book three!!!

[Becky Fields · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love new takes on Greek Mythology. This did not disappoint. Medusa was never one I knew more about so it was interesting reading and having a new take on this story. This is a quick read and kept me entertained throughout the story.

I received this book as a free archive copy.

[Odette Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was absolutely incredible! It offers a thrilling new twist on the story of Medusa. In the second installment, we dive deeper into Aless’s journey as she unravels the mysteries of her identity and her past.

Stuck in the Underwell, Aless is on a quest to find her way out, and along the journey, she encounters long-lost friends and family she never knew existed. But that's not all! She also grapples with her intense feelings for someone she never expected to desire.

Filled with suspense, moments that will make you laugh out loud, and jaw-dropping surprises, this audiobook is an absolute gem. I couldn't get enough of it and thoroughly enjoyed every minute!

[Hanna Belle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was AMAZING! I had been waiting for it come out for ages and did not disappoint. Keeping my eyes open for the next one!

I received a copy of this book via BookSirens and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Nothing worth having is gained without trial, and the deeper the ache, the greater the worth, because not having her should feel like your whole soul is shattering before she allows you the honor of claiming her. I'll accept nothing less."~Hades😍

Who knew that the Underworld god, the god of death, could be so good with his words and heartfelt expressions.😮 Master of trickery, there's always a high stakes game to be played. And here in the much anticipated book of the Dark Gods Rising trilogy the challenges are even higher. Book 2 picks up the story right where book 1 left us. Aless is back y'all. Aka Queen Medusa.🐍🐍👸🏼🐍🐍 She's here!! Trying to exist on this new living dead plane, a place of questions, unexpected desires, and wanting answers from the gods themselves. Only everyone has an agenda and Aless is on everyone's radar. Top of the list. Olympus is roaring!! Good and bad. Secrets. They ALL have secrets!! And she's tired of it. Of them. Of whispering demons. Why can't it be simple? Why is everything a bargain? A forfeit of existence? Greek mythology is so twisted!!😄😆😄 How is she going to resolve this dilemma? Remember, in this new scope, leave what you thought you knew, and come read a whole new world.

Aless is in the middle of a vast struggle with past memories, trying to remember clearly, of massive massive decisions to be made, and wishing to trust. But Hades, Zeus, I'm including Poseidon ((Dion)) are not playing fair. None of them are. This was a more complex chapter in the saga. This is where Aless grows further in who she is about to become. Learning. Evolving. She's got a billion questions, me too girl, me too!!😂😂 And I knew about Dion and his feelings, but Hades. He wasn't what I was expecting. At all!! Where did you come from sir?! The bath chapter.🛀🏼 With black rose petals.🔥🔥 Him being there and yet... blue fire. His eyes. I will leave it there. Yup. Leaving it there. Haha I wanted more of him. I wanted him to reveal and share that witty wisdom. I like him. Talk to me Hades!! Maybe in book 3 he will?! Little Terror and I will be waiting.💀😈💀😈💀😈💀😈💀

There were times I wondered where the book path was going, but trust me, it was leading to that ending. There's a cliffhanger. I know. It's okay though. We have the next book to look forward to.👍🏻 I like the characters Sal and Mavron too. Mavron cracked me up. Let's not forget Athena. Ms McCoy definitely built a mysterious new mythology. She has built a fascinating colossal world. The depth of thought provoking lessons and emotions was really good!! Great job! I recommend. Happy reading.💚💚💚

👑🏺Thank you very much to Ms McCoy and Bookfunnel for an early book. I'm happy to share my thoughts on reading this story.🏺👑

[Mariel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a complimentary copy from Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving my review.

Breaking Fate continues the story from the first book, Taking Medusa, and it's just as good! The gripping narrative combines deep emotional moments with drama and suspense. The book weaves a provocative and emotionally captivating story of Medusa as she desperately tries to grasp who she is behind the control and interference of other gods. The book ends with high stakes and an exciting cliffhanger as Medusa and Hades battle criticisms and unforeseen circumstances to keep their innovative projects alive amid threats and manipulation.

Can Medusa trust Hades? He has always been there for her, helping her through difficult times. He shows unwavering devotion by consistently saving her, proving himself to be a remarkable and worthy character. He combines romanticism with practical support and encourages her throughout her journey of self-discovery. However, the Gods are known for their unpredictable nature, expecting a deed for a deed and a debt to be paid. Is Hades truly who he seems to be? Or is Medusa destined to become the mate of his brother, Poseidon? A passionate love affair ensues, forming a love triangle between brothers. But who will ultimately pay the price?

The author portrays the complex relationships between the Gods, depicting their desires and enduring influence on humanity. The natural and genuine dialogue between the characters helps readers immerse themselves in the story without being overwhelmed by the simultaneous intricacies of the various schemes. I love this story. It's the first book I've read that offers a detailed description of the Gods in a way I've never thought of before. Medusa shows events from her perspective, which is not all negative doom and gloom. She is portrayed as a deeply caring Goddess, suffering from the pain and tragedy of others, rather than the vindictive killer usually associated with her name.

I loved everything about this book. I give it a 5 out of 5 stars. It's a captivating read as the author weaves in themes of love, ethical issues, and the pursuit of a better future. I highly recommend this book to mythology enthusiasts and readers who appreciate emotionally resonant stories.

[Lorai · Rating 3 out of 5]

My rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶️

Breaking Fate, the second book in the Dark Gods Rising series, dives deeper into Medusa's journey, taking the story to a new and exciting level. Set almost entirely in the underworld, this sequel shifts the tone from Taking Medusa, offering a fresh and original backdrop while staying true to the roots of Greek mythology. Stevie Marie’s depiction of the underworld is imaginative and layered with complexity, introducing creative elements that make it feel unique and exciting.

However, some of the issues from the first book are more pronounced here. Aless, as an unreliable narrator, often experiences things in a fragmented and abstract way, which at times makes it difficult to follow the plot. While this fits with her struggle to come into her power and control her fate, it also leads to sections that feel blurry and hard to grasp. The themes of fate and power are there, but they occasionally get lost in the narrative’s complexity, making the overarching prophecy and Dark Gods plot a bit difficult to track.

That said, the romantic tension is a great element. The relationship dynamics continue to evolve in surprising ways, adding emotional weight to the story and making the romance a compelling part of the narrative. It's a slow burn that keeps you invested, and the unexpected turns in the relationship add intrigue to the broader plot.

The pacing is quick, and while the book feels a bit shorter than expected, it avoids the usual pitfalls of a second installment bogged down by too much exposition. Instead, it feels like a well-placed stepping stone, setting the stage for bigger events in the next part of the series.

Overall, Breaking Fate is an engaging sequel with some challenges in execution. It continues to build on a unique mythological retelling while keeping readers hooked on Aless' journey. While it may feel a bit abstract and disjointed at times, the world-building, romance, and adventure still shine through, making it an enjoyable read for fans of the first book.

[N.N. Heaven · Rating 5 out of 5]

Torn between her love for Dion and her attraction to Hades, Aless must make a choice. Will she embrace the darkness within, or will she drown in a life not her choosing? Breaking Fate is book two in the Dark Gods Rising series and it’s better than book one. I stayed up late, almost to two in the morning one night, because this book had me under its spell. Picking up from book one, S.M. McCoy writes a breathtaking romantasy retelling of Medusa as she continues her journey. Prophecies are a tricky thing and the path to redemption is not always clear. You’ll be rooting for Aless to take control while reading this intoxicating story.

Let’s start with the characters. Aless/Medusa is one of the finest heroines I’ve ever read. In Breaking Fate, she’s struggling to find her identity and conquer the mirrors of truth. She’s trapped in the Underworld, not knowing who or what to trust. She’s strangely attracted to Hades while loving Dion aka Poseidon. But as she grows, her love for Dion wans. What does it all mean? I could tell you, but then again, I don’t reveal spoilers. Take my advice and read this book.

Hades is the god of the Underworld, but his silver tongue ties Aless in knots. He’s evasive when it comes to emotions and that makes him the perfect morally gray hero. Readers will flock to his bad boy persona, but the kicker is he’s so much more than that. His complexity continues throughout this book, and I found myself rooting for him.

The world-building is flawless, just like in book one. S.M. McCoy recreates these Greek myths with vivid imagery and emotion. It’s like watching a movie, only better.

If you’re looking for a romantasy adventure with dark themes, pick up Breaking Fate. I await book three with bated breath.

My Rating: 5++ stars

Reviewed by: Nancy

This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...

[Amys Bookshelf Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

SM McCoy writes a marvelous tale with Breaking Fate: A Greek Myth Monster Retelling

In Breaking Fate, the reader is reintroduced to Medusa, and she's not your regular, ordinary Medusa who can turn you into stone. Medusa was once described as hideous, and this Medusa, is anything but. Breaking Fate is part of the Dark Gods Rising series, and this is volume two. I am a big fan of SM McCoy and want to read whatever this author writes. This author has a grand imagination, and talent for showing the story. This is a continuation of Medusa's story, and how she has a journey of self-discovery, and learn that her powers can be under her control, and to accept them. I like the rewritten story of Medusa, and her mythological story was one that I always enjoyed. As a Greek Mythology lover, I embraced this story, and the author proved that there is always more to the story, the myth, the legend, and some is stranger than fiction could ever be. As the Gods of the underworld, try to control and play dangerous games with her, she needs to recover herself, and escape to find her true destiny. SM McCoy has created a brilliant world, stemming from the underworld to the life of Medusa herself. This story is a definite attention grabber, so much I couldn't put it down. It was both thrilling and intriguing, all the way to the end. A magnetic story with action, thrills, death, love and fantasy, it is a real page-turner, and you don't stop until the end. I always liked Medusa, and I like this version of her more. Breaking Fate is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews. I read this book to give my unbiased and honest review. Amy's Bookshelf Reviews recommends that anyone who reads this book also write a review.

[Crystalclearwpg · Rating 4 out of 5]

Breaking Fate is the sequel to Taking Medusa and if you have not read that yet you will have to because this book picks up right where the first left off. It took me a chapter or two to remember the first book and what happened but once I did, the journey never slowed down. Ales, aka Medusa, is fighting to find herself after centuries of memory loss. In this installment we spend our time with Ales in the Underworld with Hades while Poseidon has to step back to give her time to work things out internally. Ales is feeling torn between what she can feel was the connection between her and Poseidon and what he says was their fate but something still doesn't feel right in her core which is what keeps her in the Underworld. Hades on the other hand is letting her explore and discover while being a person she can rely on to be there to get her out of sticky situations unconditionally...as far as a God can (LOL).
This slow burn plot is great and I am enjoying seeing the differences in the characters of Hades and Poseidon. Hades doesn't seem to be the over bearing character of Hell who took Persephone as his own and Poseidon has an undertone of a man use to getting his way very quickly. Ales must discover who she was while also who she has changed into now centuries later.
Because Ales is trying to remember her shattered memories the story sometimes feels disjointed in places. I would had to reread some parts over to understand where it was trying to lead us but this did not take too much from the story line. I have enjoyed every book I have had the pleasure of reading as ARC's from Ms. McCoy and look forward to many more from her.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Toni · Rating 5 out of 5]

Medusa has learned that Hades is quite a trickster. He has put the crown of invisibility on her arm. He has a job for her...to defend the monsters that sends to the humans. He also has a way to get even with his brother Poseidon. Then he sends her to Cerberus to discuss war plans. As she gets to the river Styx she spies two sort of snakes and discovers one is Zeus. The other snake is Rucyr who is Cerebus but also her brother! What Zeus wants is Poseidon. She tries to follow but fails. Now she has to figure out how to return to Hades and let him know what is happening.
She finds herself stuck in the Desert of the Dead. She’s taken captive and then taken to
Gula or King Typhon where she meets up with Hades who takes her back with him.
She is learning so much that it leaves her reeling. Then she meets Moiraiiii who spouts
words that will lead rightly or falsely people to their fate. She had made a deal with Medusa and
because she kept it she and now she leaves her be. More clues and more misleads. Will
Medusa ever figure out the puzzle that’s been given to her? Will she be able to
avoid all out war between the old gods and Olympus? Only time will tell.
Another fascinating story that will keep the reader enthralled.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Ingrid · Rating 3 out of 5]

Breaking Fate is a fascinating continuation of Stevie Marie’s Dark Gods Rising series, reimagining Medusa’s myth through a creative and emotional lens. The world-building is excellent, especially the vivid portrayal of the Underworld, which feels original and layered with mythological depth. The romantic tension between Aless, Hades, and Poseidon adds intrigue and heart to the story, with unexpected twists that keep things interesting.

However, some of the same weaknesses from the first book remain — and even intensify here. Aless’ role as an unreliable narrator fits thematically but often makes the story confusing and fragmented. At times, it’s difficult to follow what’s happening or how the pieces of prophecy and fate connect. The themes are strong, but they sometimes get lost in the haze of abstract storytelling.

Despite that, the pacing is quick and the story avoids the usual second-book slump. It ends on a note that clearly sets up the next installment while still giving enough momentum to keep readers invested.

In short, Breaking Fate is a beautifully imagined but uneven sequel. If you loved the first book, you’ll appreciate its rich mythology and emotional growth, even if you occasionally find yourself lost in the fog of fate.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Christina · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading book one I impatiently waited for book two! Now I will be waiting just as impatiently for book three. Aless, Medusa, is in the Underworld fulfilling her promise to Hades. She is stuck between helping Hades and Poseidon wanting her back. No one seems to be telling her the full truth and everyone wants something from her.

She continues to grow and learn to control her powers. I love to see Aless in the mix with the main gods and relegated to the lower tiers as in typical Greek mythology. Aless shows that she is a force and will not just allow anyone to make her decisions for her. She is slowly trying to put her memories and her current life together so she can move forward and take ultimate control of her life.

Mythology has always been something I love to read and reread. SM McCoy keep surprising me by taking the basic mythology we all read and twisting it to fit her story. But she makes it easy to believe that her story could very well be the truth of what happened.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Deirdre VanHorn · Rating 5 out of 5]

wow!!!! what can I say about this book that would truly do it justice! This book was amazing in so many ways! the dark gods Rising series, is one of my favorite this year! this book took off where the first book left off! s.m Mccoy crafts a brilliant story around the retelling of Medusa that left me wanting more! the story is brilliant, the plot is outstanding, and I truly felt like I was a part of this story as I read! I didn’t want to put the book down once i started, and i looked forward to the flip of the next page! i would recommend this series to anyone who likes mythology, and a different take on what we know! I look forward to the next book in this series! for me this book gave me everything i look for in a good story! relatable characters, that i both. loved & hate, an awesomely crafted story based deep in mythology lore, a mystery as to what would happen next. i highly recommend this book to anyone who wants a great read! i voluntarily read this book and am leaving a review with my honest opinions on what i liked. & disliked!

[Megan Mclellan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This.author.is.EVERYTHING!!!! I have to admit I was a little worried because not every author can follow up the first in serious perfection with a second in series masterpiece!!! And I absolutely adored taking Medusa! I fell in love with the writing,the imagery,the world building,the characters,the conflict,the suspense,the flawless integration of a mythological retelling, the spice 🫠 I mean book 1 had it ALL !!!! So I was a little nervous for this book.... And I owe the author an apology for ever doubting them!! This book was incredible!! It has everything that I loved from book one and more!! I also just love how the author took from the original Greek mythology of how very very deeply wronged Medusa really was and how that story ended in her still being the victim in some ways whereas this book really drove home the point of her taking back her power and I freaking loved it!!!!! You will absolutely love this book!!!! And more importantly this author!!! Once again chefs kiss 💋💋💋

[Jennifer Trawick · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed how book 2 picked up right where book 1 left off. In Breaking Fate we follow Aless (Medusa) as she continues to learn about her past and the prophecies that have been foretold about her and her fated mate. All the while being torn between Dion and the love that they had and giving in to her darker side and her attraction to Hades. She struggles to understand their motives and the bargains that they have offered her. Her inner struggle and desire to sacrifice herself for those that she loves is endearing. Through all of that, she's also trying to understand why her newfound powers aren't responding as they had before she was brought to the Underworld. I found myself cheering for Aless throughout the book and anxiously awaiting her decision on which love interest she would choose. Breaking Fate kept my attention from start to finish and then ended in a cliff hanger! I cannot wait to get my hands on the 3rd book!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Meranie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished Breaking Fates and absolutely loved it. I really enjoyed reconnecting with Aless/Medusa , she’s strong, layered, and we get to see her evolve as she fights to understand her fate and take control of her choices. She’s becoming one of my favorite characters.

I loved how the author rewrote Greek mythology , it doesn’t just serve as a backdrop; it feels alive and intense, with gods who manipulate, protect, or destroy. Hades and Poseidon are very present, and their connection to Medusa is fascinating to follow. I especially liked the emotional tension and the complicated dynamics between them.

I also appreciated the pacing of the story there’s always something happening, but it never feels rushed. The emotions are balanced, and some scenes really hit me. It’s the kind of book that’s hard to put down.

I hightly recommand this book!

[Doris Lansford · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ok. I just got done with Breaking Fate.I only found 2 mistakes. But scars are what make us beautiful right? I have always been a mythology fan, but you have woke me up. The story of Medusa just got way more exciting. I am not someone who gives spoilers so nope not gonna happen. All I have to say is I can't wait for part 3. PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE. Ok seriously now, I would have never thought of the twists and turns with this story. I kinda thought there might be something a little extra but man. You really know how to give a girl goosebumps. Thank you for making us all smile.

[Patsy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is second book of trilogy series. This book just makes you want to finish it and has good twist. It is a slow-burn romance. This is a fun quick read that was have you constantly excited to continue reading. S.M. McCoy's very imaginative, descriptive, beautiful world building they have created. I liked the storyline, characters, and the flow. Can’t wait for last book. Recommend who likes the entertaining history of mythology story. I volunteered to read this novel and this is my honest review.