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Tethered Hearts
Ties of Deception
An innocent goddess. A manipulative god. A deception that could destroy an empire.
Purity, a goddess of life, has only one purpose: to be happy. The happier she is, the more blessings those around her receive. So she spends her days in luxury receiving gifts and adoration.
And now she has even caught the eye of the empire's prince.
It seems the perfect existence until she meets a hated god of death in the palace. He seeks a goddess bride to take home with him to the Unseen Lands.
Purity can't stand the sight of him. And worse, he seems to be everywhere she goes. But slowly he unveils a different world that was surrounding her all along. One filled with deception and corruption. Purity can no longer turn a blind eye. Happiness is no longer enough.
When she falls into a vicious competition for the hand of the empire's prince, Purity is caught at a crossroads. Could it be that her role is not to marry the prince but destroy him, and give her heart to death himself?
Ties of Deception is book three in Tethered Hearts, a multi-author series of no spice fantasy romances. Each standalone story features a magical bond that forces the couple to discover how much they’re willing to sacrifice for the sake of love.
Purity, a goddess of life, has only one purpose: to be happy. The happier she is, the more blessings those around her receive. So she spends her days in luxury receiving gifts and adoration.
And now she has even caught the eye of the empire's prince.
It seems the perfect existence until she meets a hated god of death in the palace. He seeks a goddess bride to take home with him to the Unseen Lands.
Purity can't stand the sight of him. And worse, he seems to be everywhere she goes. But slowly he unveils a different world that was surrounding her all along. One filled with deception and corruption. Purity can no longer turn a blind eye. Happiness is no longer enough.
When she falls into a vicious competition for the hand of the empire's prince, Purity is caught at a crossroads. Could it be that her role is not to marry the prince but destroy him, and give her heart to death himself?
Ties of Deception is book three in Tethered Hearts, a multi-author series of no spice fantasy romances. Each standalone story features a magical bond that forces the couple to discover how much they’re willing to sacrifice for the sake of love.
324 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 21, 2025
129 people are currently reading
205 people want to read
About the author
Alice Ivinya
32 books309 followersAlice is a USA Today Bestselling author who writes low spice fantasy and fairytales.
She lives in Bristol, UK, and has loved fantasy all her life. Her favourite authors are Holly Black and Brandon Sanderson.
When she's not off gallivanting in other worlds, you can find her looking after her two young sons, hanging out with her church family, or walking the best dog in the world with her husband.
She lives in Bristol, UK, and has loved fantasy all her life. Her favourite authors are Holly Black and Brandon Sanderson.
When she's not off gallivanting in other worlds, you can find her looking after her two young sons, hanging out with her church family, or walking the best dog in the world with her husband.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
March 24, 2025
EXCUSE ME THIS WAS AMAZING.
Buckle up for all the reasons why
1. The world building. GORGEOUS. Literally was craving all the fancy meals described and the clothes, gardens, houses, colors etc. were IMMACULATE. I want to visit there
2. THE FORESHADOWING. UGGGHHHH it was so good. Because you felt like a genius when you figured out something but were also still SO SURPRISED and were like AHHHHH as you read the book
3. The intrigue. So good. The twist, the turns, the slow reveals, the build up. Literally finished in one day because the tension she created was so good that I HAD to keep turning the pages.
4. THE ROMANCE. Honestly it should be number one on this list because it was SO SWOONY. Talk about a devoted man with feelings and depth and the way she was able to weave all of that in while keeping it a single POV. *Bows in respect* So many swoony lines though
5. CHARACTER GROWTH. Because let's be real, Purity goes through insane craziness and I LOVED how she grew and developed and yup. No spoilers here other than saying it was AWESOMEb
6. The magic system was SO COOL. And I want more books with it please and thanks.
Um yes. Obsessed. Love this book. Need a trophy copy for my bookshelf now
💋 Kisses only. One very swoony big kiss
⚠️He's a god of death. Lots of death mentioned, and people dying (but like no descriptions ya feel)
⚠️⚠️Suicide
*I received an advanced reader copy but clearly am obsessed of my own volition.
Buckle up for all the reasons why
1. The world building. GORGEOUS. Literally was craving all the fancy meals described and the clothes, gardens, houses, colors etc. were IMMACULATE. I want to visit there
2. THE FORESHADOWING. UGGGHHHH it was so good. Because you felt like a genius when you figured out something but were also still SO SURPRISED and were like AHHHHH as you read the book
3. The intrigue. So good. The twist, the turns, the slow reveals, the build up. Literally finished in one day because the tension she created was so good that I HAD to keep turning the pages.
4. THE ROMANCE. Honestly it should be number one on this list because it was SO SWOONY. Talk about a devoted man with feelings and depth and the way she was able to weave all of that in while keeping it a single POV. *Bows in respect* So many swoony lines though
5. CHARACTER GROWTH. Because let's be real, Purity goes through insane craziness and I LOVED how she grew and developed and yup. No spoilers here other than saying it was AWESOMEb
6. The magic system was SO COOL. And I want more books with it please and thanks.
Um yes. Obsessed. Love this book. Need a trophy copy for my bookshelf now
💋 Kisses only. One very swoony big kiss
⚠️He's a god of death. Lots of death mentioned, and people dying (but like no descriptions ya feel)
⚠️⚠️Suicide
*I received an advanced reader copy but clearly am obsessed of my own volition.
March 10, 2025
One of the best books I’ve read this year!!! I absolutely loved each and every moment and read it all in one day!! I couldn’t put it down, it was absolutely brilliant!!
Purity is a new goddess with no memory. All that she has to do is be happy, be a background character, and avoid the gods of death. With all of the expectations, it’s hard to find where you can be happy, especially being a new grace. With every turn, she finds herself finding trouble. When Ethan, a god of death, takes an interest in her, the last thing she wants is for him to be in her presence.
I laughed, cried, and was absolutely enthralled in this story. I love Hades and Persephone tales and this one takes an amazing spin. I recommend this book completely for anyone who’s wanting to read something wonderful and exciting!
Purity is a new goddess with no memory. All that she has to do is be happy, be a background character, and avoid the gods of death. With all of the expectations, it’s hard to find where you can be happy, especially being a new grace. With every turn, she finds herself finding trouble. When Ethan, a god of death, takes an interest in her, the last thing she wants is for him to be in her presence.
I laughed, cried, and was absolutely enthralled in this story. I love Hades and Persephone tales and this one takes an amazing spin. I recommend this book completely for anyone who’s wanting to read something wonderful and exciting!
March 26, 2025
(4,5 ☆)
Purity is a newborn goddess whose only purpose is to be happy. The happier she is, the more blessings she can give to the people. It seems like the perfect life - until she meets the god of death. Purity has been warned against him and she does everything she can to avoid him. But soon he shows her that not everything is as perfect as it seems and he tells her things that she has a hard time believing. Who is she supposed to trust?
A lovely story with Hades and Persephone vibes, courtly intrigues and forbidden love! Purity truly wants to help the people and make a difference in their lifes, but she soon realises that it's not that simple. She has to learn to control her emotions and navigate the political game correctly. It was easy to sympathise with her, but sometimes she made me frustrated with her actions. Ethen, the god of death, wasn't at all what I expected, but it was a pleasant surprise! The pace was mostly good, except a part in the middle, when I thought it dragged just a little. Otherwise I was plenty entertained and I was eager to continue reading!
* I received an ARC from the author and I'm giving my honest review. *
Purity is a newborn goddess whose only purpose is to be happy. The happier she is, the more blessings she can give to the people. It seems like the perfect life - until she meets the god of death. Purity has been warned against him and she does everything she can to avoid him. But soon he shows her that not everything is as perfect as it seems and he tells her things that she has a hard time believing. Who is she supposed to trust?
A lovely story with Hades and Persephone vibes, courtly intrigues and forbidden love! Purity truly wants to help the people and make a difference in their lifes, but she soon realises that it's not that simple. She has to learn to control her emotions and navigate the political game correctly. It was easy to sympathise with her, but sometimes she made me frustrated with her actions. Ethen, the god of death, wasn't at all what I expected, but it was a pleasant surprise! The pace was mostly good, except a part in the middle, when I thought it dragged just a little. Otherwise I was plenty entertained and I was eager to continue reading!
* I received an ARC from the author and I'm giving my honest review. *
March 13, 2025
I loved this so much! The MMC was the perfect enemies-to-lovers, morally gray character. The entire story I spent back and forth with myself trying to decide if he was the bad guy or the secretly-a-good guy. The instigating characters were also done really well, and I didn't have them fully figured out because of how well they held up the deception they'd been putting on. Purity is also fantastic, because she just wants to do her job well, bringing happiness and health to those around her, why trying to figure out what was going on with the other Graces. It really felt like the Neo Seoul storyline from Cloud Atlas, but substitute Ancient Greece for Futuristic Asia. New twists came up at every turn and I couldn't put it down until I knew what was going on.
March 13, 2025
I literally could not put this book down. I started reading at 2pm and it killed me to set it down and take care of my responsibilities. It is 5:30am and I just finished it after staying up the entire night. The Ties of Deception was wound so deep!!!! I never ever would have guessed the ending! Purity waking up in a world she didn't know and was heart breaking especially with everything she had to learn and all the unanswered questions! Ethen was so unbelievably hard to read and I was guessing everything right along with Purity. I love him btw but the road to get there was so confusing(in the best way). Alice is such an extremely talented author. I felt like I was in Purity's shoes experiencing the life she was so desperately trying to understand.
I received an ARC copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are not influenced by the author and are 100 percent my own.
I received an ARC copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are not influenced by the author and are 100 percent my own.
March 11, 2025
From the first chapter, I was completely intrigued. I'd never read a book with any sort of premise like this, and it was fascinating to consider and a crazy journey to the end. I laughed sometimes, cried others, and felt deeply invested in the story. Another incredible example of storytelling and world-building. Adored it!
Read
April 15, 2025DROPPED.
Don't get me wrong, it's a good book, just not what I enjoy because it was a little less romance and too much politicking. I like my romantasy top heavy ON the romance. As a reviewer mentioned, the relationship building and second-chance romance doesn't leave you wanting more. It's as if the author took for granted that just because the heroine was the MMC's fated soulmate, she didn't have to write out their second love story again!
That's sad because the heroine may have been reincarnated, perhaps retained some memories from time to time, but she's a different person now. So one would expect to see a better courtship between the duo. Sadly, it was bereft of the passion and sensuality I prefer. In other words, this lukewarm romance had me feeling quite bored.
Thus, I've decided not to waste any time and move on to something more to my preference. If you're excited more about politics than romance, then be my guest.
Don't get me wrong, it's a good book, just not what I enjoy because it was a little less romance and too much politicking. I like my romantasy top heavy ON the romance. As a reviewer mentioned, the relationship building and second-chance romance doesn't leave you wanting more. It's as if the author took for granted that just because the heroine was the MMC's fated soulmate, she didn't have to write out their second love story again!
That's sad because the heroine may have been reincarnated, perhaps retained some memories from time to time, but she's a different person now. So one would expect to see a better courtship between the duo. Sadly, it was bereft of the passion and sensuality I prefer. In other words, this lukewarm romance had me feeling quite bored.
Thus, I've decided not to waste any time and move on to something more to my preference. If you're excited more about politics than romance, then be my guest.
September 11, 2025
3.5 star
Spice/none, only kisses 💖
Swearing/None❤️
I really enjoyed this book. I read it in four days and stayed up until after midnight most nights. This could have been a four star or even a five star if there was more humor and action. I did call the twist at the end and who was behind all of it. 😁😋 I like Alice Ivinya's writing and will be reading more of her books and I can't wait for the next book in the Teathered Hearts series. ❤️
Spice/none, only kisses 💖
Swearing/None❤️
I really enjoyed this book. I read it in four days and stayed up until after midnight most nights. This could have been a four star or even a five star if there was more humor and action. I did call the twist at the end and who was behind all of it. 😁😋 I like Alice Ivinya's writing and will be reading more of her books and I can't wait for the next book in the Teathered Hearts series. ❤️
March 21, 2025
◦ I've received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review ◦
⮞ 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬 ⮜
Purity - I was a bit confused just as she was in the very beginning til we got more information on the story. I have to say the way this story started was really clever because it pulled me in from the very, very beginning. You practically grow with the character, and that's so amazing.
God of Death - He was such a master on fooling you, I loved how easily I could've been tricked by him. I loved his character, intriguing, mysterious and such a master in confusing you.
⮞ 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝-𝐁𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 ⮜
The world-building gave me greek gods vibes, but in fact this felt for me a Hades x Persephone retelling. The details offered, the differences between the underworld and the world Purity was living in, the backstory were so amazing, and I loved each piece of detail received.
⮞ 𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐈 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞𝐝/𝐝𝐢𝐬𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞𝐝 ⮜
The story contains the sweetest romance story without spice. Their love is forbidden, and the secrets when they start revealing had my heart clenching because their love was so, so heartbreaking. The story has a happy ending, is just the backstory, and the truth when they get revealed in the story will have your heart crying because they are so dang cute. I loved the adventure, the intrigue, and the plot twists. The book kept me on my toes from the very beginning.
⮞ 𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞/TW ⮜
There is no spice in the story. The romance is closed door romance, there may be a TW - a stabbing and also poisoning and also death.
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⮞ 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬 ⮜
Purity - I was a bit confused just as she was in the very beginning til we got more information on the story. I have to say the way this story started was really clever because it pulled me in from the very, very beginning. You practically grow with the character, and that's so amazing.
God of Death - He was such a master on fooling you, I loved how easily I could've been tricked by him. I loved his character, intriguing, mysterious and such a master in confusing you.
⮞ 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝-𝐁𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 ⮜
The world-building gave me greek gods vibes, but in fact this felt for me a Hades x Persephone retelling. The details offered, the differences between the underworld and the world Purity was living in, the backstory were so amazing, and I loved each piece of detail received.
⮞ 𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐈 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞𝐝/𝐝𝐢𝐬𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞𝐝 ⮜
The story contains the sweetest romance story without spice. Their love is forbidden, and the secrets when they start revealing had my heart clenching because their love was so, so heartbreaking. The story has a happy ending, is just the backstory, and the truth when they get revealed in the story will have your heart crying because they are so dang cute. I loved the adventure, the intrigue, and the plot twists. The book kept me on my toes from the very beginning.
⮞ 𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞/TW ⮜
There is no spice in the story. The romance is closed door romance, there may be a TW - a stabbing and also poisoning and also death.
Follow me on my bookventure:
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Always open to read and review more books🠇
Review Policy
March 21, 2025
I'm really happy that I'm part of the street team for this series. Especially because I'm discovering books by new authors and am falling in love with their characters and stories. Ties of Deception is also the first book I read by this author. The cover made me really curious, especially because the hero of the story clearly breathes a certain kind of vibe. I was really excited to get to know him when my arc for this book came in.
The book started really strong. The author did an amazing job creating a world that's both intriguing and dangerous. Since we're reading the entire story from the heroine's point of view, we get to know this world, the politics and its people through her eyes. Everything is as new for her as it is for us and therefore everything gets explained quite well. The more I learned about the world, the more interesting it got.
However, the middle of the book didn't really grab me anymore. It took a long time before the heroine and the hero really start to interact and even then it never really feels intimate or romantic. I think that's because we're not really witnessing them building a relationship. We don't witness the moment these characters fall in love. It's the nature of the story, but the slowly falling in love with each other is always my favorite part of the romance, so I really missed that in this book.
The book got more interesting again though towards the finale. The political games became more serious and the stakes were incredibly high. I have to admit that I'm not entirely sure what to think of the twist at the very end of the story. I don't wanna give away too much of course, but in a way I think the final solution to all the issues feels a little easy. But, I'm pretty sure a lot of people will close the book with a huge smile on their face.
The book started really strong. The author did an amazing job creating a world that's both intriguing and dangerous. Since we're reading the entire story from the heroine's point of view, we get to know this world, the politics and its people through her eyes. Everything is as new for her as it is for us and therefore everything gets explained quite well. The more I learned about the world, the more interesting it got.
However, the middle of the book didn't really grab me anymore. It took a long time before the heroine and the hero really start to interact and even then it never really feels intimate or romantic. I think that's because we're not really witnessing them building a relationship. We don't witness the moment these characters fall in love. It's the nature of the story, but the slowly falling in love with each other is always my favorite part of the romance, so I really missed that in this book.
The book got more interesting again though towards the finale. The political games became more serious and the stakes were incredibly high. I have to admit that I'm not entirely sure what to think of the twist at the very end of the story. I don't wanna give away too much of course, but in a way I think the final solution to all the issues feels a little easy. But, I'm pretty sure a lot of people will close the book with a huge smile on their face.
March 22, 2025
This author’s works are all brilliant and I’m especially impressed about being presented with yet another brilliant, unexpected, and oh so vibrant world that is so different from anything else Ivinya has written. This is also a fantastic reworking of the Hades and Persephone myth.
To me, this is what perfection looks like. The worldbuilding and fascinating magic system are perfect. The characters—perfect. The romance, especially her antagonists to lovers perspective and his “he falls first” tropes hit the spot to perfection. At the risk of repeating myself… The plot and the final heart-stopping twist are sheer perfection!
Purity and Ethen have burrowed into my heart and have set up a gorgeous home there, and I’ll definitely be looking in on them over and over again.
To me, this is what perfection looks like. The worldbuilding and fascinating magic system are perfect. The characters—perfect. The romance, especially her antagonists to lovers perspective and his “he falls first” tropes hit the spot to perfection. At the risk of repeating myself… The plot and the final heart-stopping twist are sheer perfection!
Purity and Ethen have burrowed into my heart and have set up a gorgeous home there, and I’ll definitely be looking in on them over and over again.
March 20, 2025
I received an ARC from the author but was not obligated to write a review after I read it. This is my
honest, voluntary opinion and impression I got from reading it.
Alice has done it again! I have throughly enjoyed all the books I’ve read by her! Her stories capture your attention right from the start and you’re “hooked”!
I wholeheartedly and enthusiastically recommend this book to everyone who enjoys a tale of romance, lost/found love, conflicts, betrayals and a happily ever after which paralleled our heroine’s first life at the end with one major twist!
In a world where life and death were meant to co-exist together, tragedy occurs but the immortal prince of death searches for the mortal woman he loved who died to be reborn as a Grace- one who will bless others. His search is rewarded but she is reborn in a different body and has no memories of him at all! Throughout the book, she encounters deceit and treachery and finds herself in constant uncertainty as to who she really is.
Finally believing the prince of death and his mission, she is determined to help him but encounters betrayal by other Graces as well as the prince of the
earthly realm she finds herself in as well as his mother the Empress.
There is a dark sinister plan that is being carried out on earth and it almost costs her life before she is saved by someone she never thought she’d see and given a mission which astounds her!
This story is a page turner which will keep you turning the pages faster and faster to find out what happens next and who all the ones bent on keeping these two apart in her new life are exposed!
This is a no spice book which is one that shouldn’t be missed! The story is well worth the time to read it and I can guarantee you will love it just as much as I did!
honest, voluntary opinion and impression I got from reading it.
Alice has done it again! I have throughly enjoyed all the books I’ve read by her! Her stories capture your attention right from the start and you’re “hooked”!
I wholeheartedly and enthusiastically recommend this book to everyone who enjoys a tale of romance, lost/found love, conflicts, betrayals and a happily ever after which paralleled our heroine’s first life at the end with one major twist!
In a world where life and death were meant to co-exist together, tragedy occurs but the immortal prince of death searches for the mortal woman he loved who died to be reborn as a Grace- one who will bless others. His search is rewarded but she is reborn in a different body and has no memories of him at all! Throughout the book, she encounters deceit and treachery and finds herself in constant uncertainty as to who she really is.
Finally believing the prince of death and his mission, she is determined to help him but encounters betrayal by other Graces as well as the prince of the
earthly realm she finds herself in as well as his mother the Empress.
There is a dark sinister plan that is being carried out on earth and it almost costs her life before she is saved by someone she never thought she’d see and given a mission which astounds her!
This story is a page turner which will keep you turning the pages faster and faster to find out what happens next and who all the ones bent on keeping these two apart in her new life are exposed!
This is a no spice book which is one that shouldn’t be missed! The story is well worth the time to read it and I can guarantee you will love it just as much as I did!
March 25, 2025
I'm convinced that Alice Ivinya is a Goddess or a Grace as they are called in this book. She has the magical ability to weave words into beautiful stories and capture the hearts of mere mortals like me. With every book she writes, I find myself feeling amazed by her talent as an author.
Talking about Ties of Deception, it's a unique and fascinating story that had me hooked right from the start. When I began reading, there's no way I would have guessed the turn it would take. The plot twists were masterfully crafted and included in the book. Each jaw-dropping revelation had me distracted throughout the day and sleepless at night.
The characters, as always, were the best part. Purity started off as a naive and sheltered person, but her willingness and determination to help people even when she was scared was endearing. I loved Ethen! He was a cinnamon roll hero pretending to be a morally grey one which is the best kind of MMC. I had the constant urge to hug him during his moments of vulnerability. The supporting characters also did a great job of moving the story forward.
The worldbuilding was amazing. It is difficult to maintain a balance when giving enough information to readers about the world when it's a standalone. There is a risk of either overdoing it or not providing sufficient details to paint a picture. But everything was perfectly done in the book. I understood the politics, dynamics, magical powers easily which enhanced my reading experience.
The pacing of the story was great and the ending was completely unexpected. I wished there was more to Purity and Ethen's story. I had a hard time letting them go.
I recommend this story to all the fantasy romance lovers who enjoy books with strong yet gentle heroines, dangerous yet lovable heroes and awesome plot twists.
A question to the author: Do men like Ethen really exist? If yes, where can I find them?
Talking about Ties of Deception, it's a unique and fascinating story that had me hooked right from the start. When I began reading, there's no way I would have guessed the turn it would take. The plot twists were masterfully crafted and included in the book. Each jaw-dropping revelation had me distracted throughout the day and sleepless at night.
The characters, as always, were the best part. Purity started off as a naive and sheltered person, but her willingness and determination to help people even when she was scared was endearing. I loved Ethen! He was a cinnamon roll hero pretending to be a morally grey one which is the best kind of MMC. I had the constant urge to hug him during his moments of vulnerability. The supporting characters also did a great job of moving the story forward.
The worldbuilding was amazing. It is difficult to maintain a balance when giving enough information to readers about the world when it's a standalone. There is a risk of either overdoing it or not providing sufficient details to paint a picture. But everything was perfectly done in the book. I understood the politics, dynamics, magical powers easily which enhanced my reading experience.
The pacing of the story was great and the ending was completely unexpected. I wished there was more to Purity and Ethen's story. I had a hard time letting them go.
I recommend this story to all the fantasy romance lovers who enjoy books with strong yet gentle heroines, dangerous yet lovable heroes and awesome plot twists.
A question to the author: Do men like Ethen really exist? If yes, where can I find them?
Read
May 16, 2025DNF @51%.
I finally had to admit to myself that I wasn't enjoying this as much as I thought I would. The trademarks of things I thought I would enjoy were there, but it just didn't "hit" for me.
There's a lot of potentially great stuff here, but as a lover of political intrigue and court drama in my fantasy, I found this was kind of...predictable?
So, if you want a taste of political intrigue in a story that feels more soft, this is definitely for you.
I finally had to admit to myself that I wasn't enjoying this as much as I thought I would. The trademarks of things I thought I would enjoy were there, but it just didn't "hit" for me.
There's a lot of potentially great stuff here, but as a lover of political intrigue and court drama in my fantasy, I found this was kind of...predictable?
So, if you want a taste of political intrigue in a story that feels more soft, this is definitely for you.
October 10, 2025
I love the duo dynamic there. How considerate he is and how he waited so long. I love how he respected her boundaries. The Worldbuilding is so good. The lore was so good.
I wasn’t sure how I’d feel with the god and goddess stuff but it was done in a really interesting way. The twists and turns of the mystery was so interesting. The end was woah. I want to explain more specifically but it’s hard to find words
I wasn’t sure how I’d feel with the god and goddess stuff but it was done in a really interesting way. The twists and turns of the mystery was so interesting. The end was woah. I want to explain more specifically but it’s hard to find words
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 26, 2025
World building: chef's kiss
Character building: not bad although Purity is pretty stupid
Plot building: slow AF
Character building: not bad although Purity is pretty stupid
Plot building: slow AF
February 23, 2025
What if you were a goddess and woke up with no memory? That is the strange circumstance that our heroine finds herself in.
It's a love story across time and miracles. It's driven by the simple fact: "You don’t truly choose who you fall in love with." Unfortunately for our goddess the deceptions are real. For her: "There really was nobody I could trust here." How could she break out of the prison imposed by lack of knowledge and history. For her: "playing this game of deceit was the only way to win".
Her goal was to set the world right with the power she had. Her realization held true: "I could face anything if he was beside me."
If you enjoy a good love story with many unexpected twists and turns give this a read. The author draws you into the story and slowly peels back the layers of deceit. Definitely well told!
It's a love story across time and miracles. It's driven by the simple fact: "You don’t truly choose who you fall in love with." Unfortunately for our goddess the deceptions are real. For her: "There really was nobody I could trust here." How could she break out of the prison imposed by lack of knowledge and history. For her: "playing this game of deceit was the only way to win".
Her goal was to set the world right with the power she had. Her realization held true: "I could face anything if he was beside me."
If you enjoy a good love story with many unexpected twists and turns give this a read. The author draws you into the story and slowly peels back the layers of deceit. Definitely well told!
Read
September 1, 2025Note to self: this is a fated soulmate trope. Frowny face.
April 7, 2025
Don’t take it from my lower stars that this is a bad book, because it is not. It is simply not my cup of tea. Personally, I very much enjoy this author and have read most of her catalog and given high marks to… so why go lower on this one?
Several reasons, really. First, I am not overly interested in ancient mythology and Olympian gods and goddesses just don’t do it for me. Secondly, as a trusting person I am easy to lie to, as I would rather believe that people are inherently honest rather than trying to manipulate or sway me. It’s why I avoid politics as much as I do.
So to have a female lead who is so easily gullible and being forcibly manhandled by pretty much everyone, yeah, that upset me. Mainly because our knowledge as the reader is only what the character knows, so every time she finds something she has been told was a truth was really lies and half-truths, I felt personally tricked and betrayed by an unreliable storyteller.
I hate being reminded that people lie so much.
There are a few other things that bothered me, so let’s just get those out of the way first- our lead, Purity, is reborn (in adult form) in order to be kept in a life of luxury in order to always be happy and thus bless those around her with riches, luck, what-have-you.
Maybe that’s fine and dandy for reborn Graces, but no one can stay blissfully ignorant and “happy” forever- life is about balance after all. So Purity is already being held to impossible standards from within hours of her rebirth. Seeing as how she has been reborn without any of her soul’s previous memories, she is a blank slate for her handlers to write on however they see fit.
Sure, her caregivers spent a lot of money setting this into motion for her, but the rewards that come from owning a Grace make this expenditure a mere drop in the bucket. It’s like Purity is some magical genie slave that they legally own for their own personal gain. They choose who gets to see Purity in order to gain her blessing (and those patrons pay through the nose for the privilege of seeing her).
She’s a performing child with no rights whatsoever. If she does not perform as expected she can be retired- or, in more horrific wording, she’ll be killed, her soul lost to the underworld and her body preserved to house a new soul at some point.
Ewwwww.
The Empress can demand access at any time to any of the Graces in the kingdom and certainly is shallow and vain about it.
Oh, and Ethen, the heir to the underworld, is claiming that Purity is his Fated mate, Snow, whose soul hd been stolen and put into this stranger’s body. Luckily for Ethen, Purity’s new body is smoking hot, so he can’t really be too upset about it, though her lack of memory is a bummer. Still, he does try to remind her of their former time together.
Kind of gross though to me when he knows it all and she’s had a brain reboot, because she’s got the trust of a child and he could be feeding her the biggest line of BS to try to get her to marry him.
Lots of who-what-when-how-why abounds as Graces are being harmed and dying and our innocent babe fresh from the grave is determined to help figure out who is behind it all.
Oh, and she and Ethen have zero chemistry thanks to that brain wipe because he is not about to start kissing and wooing her unless she shakes some memories loose and starts remembering him.
It all comes together in the end, thank goodness, if in one heck of a nearly tied package hand wrapped by the gods.
The book starts strong, whimpers in the middle (for me- others won’t be so hung up on all the lies, half-truths and manipulations- but then the end regains it’s footing for a solid finish.
Purity was a bit too much of a clueless mess for me and Ethen’s tough guy act doesn’t interest me, but then bad boys aren’t my thing either. If you are into goddesses and togas and Greek isles then this should be a great fit for you. There is a wide range of characters around and many are well fleshed out. The storyline IS engaging, it just wasn’t to my tastes.
I will certainly continue reading the author’s works to come- as I said, this is the first thing of hers that I have read that I didn’t give a great review to.
Several reasons, really. First, I am not overly interested in ancient mythology and Olympian gods and goddesses just don’t do it for me. Secondly, as a trusting person I am easy to lie to, as I would rather believe that people are inherently honest rather than trying to manipulate or sway me. It’s why I avoid politics as much as I do.
So to have a female lead who is so easily gullible and being forcibly manhandled by pretty much everyone, yeah, that upset me. Mainly because our knowledge as the reader is only what the character knows, so every time she finds something she has been told was a truth was really lies and half-truths, I felt personally tricked and betrayed by an unreliable storyteller.
I hate being reminded that people lie so much.
There are a few other things that bothered me, so let’s just get those out of the way first- our lead, Purity, is reborn (in adult form) in order to be kept in a life of luxury in order to always be happy and thus bless those around her with riches, luck, what-have-you.
Maybe that’s fine and dandy for reborn Graces, but no one can stay blissfully ignorant and “happy” forever- life is about balance after all. So Purity is already being held to impossible standards from within hours of her rebirth. Seeing as how she has been reborn without any of her soul’s previous memories, she is a blank slate for her handlers to write on however they see fit.
Sure, her caregivers spent a lot of money setting this into motion for her, but the rewards that come from owning a Grace make this expenditure a mere drop in the bucket. It’s like Purity is some magical genie slave that they legally own for their own personal gain. They choose who gets to see Purity in order to gain her blessing (and those patrons pay through the nose for the privilege of seeing her).
She’s a performing child with no rights whatsoever. If she does not perform as expected she can be retired- or, in more horrific wording, she’ll be killed, her soul lost to the underworld and her body preserved to house a new soul at some point.
Ewwwww.
The Empress can demand access at any time to any of the Graces in the kingdom and certainly is shallow and vain about it.
Oh, and Ethen, the heir to the underworld, is claiming that Purity is his Fated mate, Snow, whose soul hd been stolen and put into this stranger’s body. Luckily for Ethen, Purity’s new body is smoking hot, so he can’t really be too upset about it, though her lack of memory is a bummer. Still, he does try to remind her of their former time together.
Kind of gross though to me when he knows it all and she’s had a brain reboot, because she’s got the trust of a child and he could be feeding her the biggest line of BS to try to get her to marry him.
Lots of who-what-when-how-why abounds as Graces are being harmed and dying and our innocent babe fresh from the grave is determined to help figure out who is behind it all.
Oh, and she and Ethen have zero chemistry thanks to that brain wipe because he is not about to start kissing and wooing her unless she shakes some memories loose and starts remembering him.
It all comes together in the end, thank goodness, if in one heck of a nearly tied package hand wrapped by the gods.
The book starts strong, whimpers in the middle (for me- others won’t be so hung up on all the lies, half-truths and manipulations- but then the end regains it’s footing for a solid finish.
Purity was a bit too much of a clueless mess for me and Ethen’s tough guy act doesn’t interest me, but then bad boys aren’t my thing either. If you are into goddesses and togas and Greek isles then this should be a great fit for you. There is a wide range of characters around and many are well fleshed out. The storyline IS engaging, it just wasn’t to my tastes.
I will certainly continue reading the author’s works to come- as I said, this is the first thing of hers that I have read that I didn’t give a great review to.
March 18, 2025
When I begin a read and I'm already burning to know the direction the story is going, when I'm caught up in a very intriguing situation, I know it's a precedent for a terrific read. And I was not wrong... This was a read unlike any I've read before, from begining to end, the uniqueness of the story captivated me. I'm almost speechless at the brilliance of this book...
Imagine waking up with no recollection where you are or who you are, imagine waking up to opulent surroundings, imagine waking up to being told you are a goddess, imagine being told all you had to do was to be happy, that others might prosper. Sounds too good to be true? Well.... This is exactly what happens to Purity, and she does everything she can to accommodate what is required of her, as confused and out of sorts as she is. The family she's been "assigned to" is a bit controlling, ok, very controlling, the mom at any rate. Pris, the daughter is sweet and gregarious and genuinely appears to like Purity. Purity quickly learns that there is major politics at hand, namely by the Empress, who's every whim seems to be law. And Purity finds herself smack bang in the middle of all of this. Not only is Prince Sebastian behaving....untowardly, the Aida Prince seems to have taken an interest too. Except, the 2 Prince's intentions differ vastly. All Purity is sure of is that something smells off, something sinister is happening behind the scenes.
I found myself very quickly discerning who I liked and who I didn't. Purity had my sympathy immediately and as her discontent grew, so did my affection for her. I really liked Pris and Ethen, from when he appeared as this dark force everyone distrusted and when he opened his heart to Purity, he stole mine too. He exposed the horrific occurrence of pilfering souls, of turning them into vessels by greedy individuals and the stage was set for another phase in this excellent read. One of uncovering who and why, through subterfuge, concealment and a beautiful emotional link, my stomach was with plunging to my feet or brimming with thousands of butterflies. He's so flipping romantic I wanted to crawl into his arms, he certainly melted my innards with his loving stance towards Purity, as these words reflect, "I'm devoted to nobody and nothing as much I am to you"
This author really had me going, I never knew what to expect, the story that she presented me with, was one of greed, power and neferious motives. When Purity had been warned off from even looking at an Ardis, I had a feeling she would succumb to one BUT not in this way. From the moment she encountered Ethen, she started questioning everything. What spilled from Ethen's mouth, the truth of what really happened, would have dropped a bird in mid flight, I fell soundly on my tuch in surprise. But that wasn't the last of it, then....my golly.... Ms Ivinya janked the rug from under me, spectacularly, I was blinking from the onslaught in disbelief at HOW she'd spun it! Did she blow my mind? Unquestionably! Brilliant? Oh heck, YES! This author has managed to surprise me with her entire book, the plot was unusual, the characters were atypical, although clearly defined, it wasn't until the truth came out that I was able to get the full measure of them. Good golly was this done in an unorthodox yet exemplary execution. The lands of life and the lands of death are absolutely not what I thought they would be. The Grace's were not who I thought they would be, Sebastian was not who I thought he would be, the outcome was not what I thought it would be, the whodunit was the last person I thought it could be....In a very cool way, Alice twisted light and dark, even the grey wasn't grey, nay, she bought such a fresh take to the underworld, to goddesses, a whole innovative perspection.
Let me confirm, resoundingly, IT WAS AWESOME! This story is awesome! This author is awesome! Lies and deception? Heck! That is the most apt title if ever I saw one!
Imagine waking up with no recollection where you are or who you are, imagine waking up to opulent surroundings, imagine waking up to being told you are a goddess, imagine being told all you had to do was to be happy, that others might prosper. Sounds too good to be true? Well.... This is exactly what happens to Purity, and she does everything she can to accommodate what is required of her, as confused and out of sorts as she is. The family she's been "assigned to" is a bit controlling, ok, very controlling, the mom at any rate. Pris, the daughter is sweet and gregarious and genuinely appears to like Purity. Purity quickly learns that there is major politics at hand, namely by the Empress, who's every whim seems to be law. And Purity finds herself smack bang in the middle of all of this. Not only is Prince Sebastian behaving....untowardly, the Aida Prince seems to have taken an interest too. Except, the 2 Prince's intentions differ vastly. All Purity is sure of is that something smells off, something sinister is happening behind the scenes.
I found myself very quickly discerning who I liked and who I didn't. Purity had my sympathy immediately and as her discontent grew, so did my affection for her. I really liked Pris and Ethen, from when he appeared as this dark force everyone distrusted and when he opened his heart to Purity, he stole mine too. He exposed the horrific occurrence of pilfering souls, of turning them into vessels by greedy individuals and the stage was set for another phase in this excellent read. One of uncovering who and why, through subterfuge, concealment and a beautiful emotional link, my stomach was with plunging to my feet or brimming with thousands of butterflies. He's so flipping romantic I wanted to crawl into his arms, he certainly melted my innards with his loving stance towards Purity, as these words reflect, "I'm devoted to nobody and nothing as much I am to you"
This author really had me going, I never knew what to expect, the story that she presented me with, was one of greed, power and neferious motives. When Purity had been warned off from even looking at an Ardis, I had a feeling she would succumb to one BUT not in this way. From the moment she encountered Ethen, she started questioning everything. What spilled from Ethen's mouth, the truth of what really happened, would have dropped a bird in mid flight, I fell soundly on my tuch in surprise. But that wasn't the last of it, then....my golly.... Ms Ivinya janked the rug from under me, spectacularly, I was blinking from the onslaught in disbelief at HOW she'd spun it! Did she blow my mind? Unquestionably! Brilliant? Oh heck, YES! This author has managed to surprise me with her entire book, the plot was unusual, the characters were atypical, although clearly defined, it wasn't until the truth came out that I was able to get the full measure of them. Good golly was this done in an unorthodox yet exemplary execution. The lands of life and the lands of death are absolutely not what I thought they would be. The Grace's were not who I thought they would be, Sebastian was not who I thought he would be, the outcome was not what I thought it would be, the whodunit was the last person I thought it could be....In a very cool way, Alice twisted light and dark, even the grey wasn't grey, nay, she bought such a fresh take to the underworld, to goddesses, a whole innovative perspection.
Let me confirm, resoundingly, IT WAS AWESOME! This story is awesome! This author is awesome! Lies and deception? Heck! That is the most apt title if ever I saw one!
February 28, 2025
I AM IN LOVE! Some call me biased bc I ADORE Alice Ivinyas books... But she deserves every bit of praise I can give and more!
Content warnings:
Language: N/A
Sexual content: Some kisses
Violence and gore: Poison, talk of death, death, etc. But none of it is graphic.
First of all, the first thing to know before reading an Alice Ivinya book is that just when you think you have it all figured out... SHE THROWS IN A PLOT TWIST YOU DID NOT SEE COMING!!!
Stars May Burn has been my favorite book since it released and I have recommended it to many people and read it to my sisters... This book is right up there with it. I love how unique the deity system is, and everything that actually goes into it (you don't see it on the front end, but I can't say anything or I will spoil it).
Ethan, I love you so much 😭 He made me laugh and cry more than most characters do... But he got a lot of highlights! He is so sweet, but it is strange how easy it was for me to be right there with Purity in questioning him... I felt like I was in Puritys shoes through the whole of the book, and it was crazy. I would have loved having his POV, but it added so much to the book without it too (if that makes sense).
Purity was a very relatable character in my opinion... Not in the fact that she is a goddess of course, but the thoughts and emotions and opinions resonated with me a lot. She was a spunky goddess even when she didn't know it, I will say that. I normally don't like the POV being solely from the FL, but it didn't bother me at all with this!
I've said it before and I will say it again... Something is so magical about Ms. Ivinyas writing style... I don't want to skip a word she writes (and I am normally a skimmer). There is something so naturally beautiful about her writing style, the way she describes things, that I can't stop reading!
Ask my family, I was squealing through this book. I was so happy it was over 300 pages (from collaboration series it's normally only 200-250 pages). The only thing I wish had been included was an epilogue... Though I can live without it bc the ending was still good.
Basically, I love this book. The only reason it took me more than a day to finish was due to a cold and dead electronics. Seriously, if you're anything like me, you will devour and adore this book. I'm buying the physical copy as soon as it is available, just saying.
I received a copy of this book as an ARC for free from the author, though all opinions are 100% my own.
Thank you for writing this beautiful book 😩
Content warnings:
Language: N/A
Sexual content: Some kisses
Violence and gore: Poison, talk of death, death, etc. But none of it is graphic.
First of all, the first thing to know before reading an Alice Ivinya book is that just when you think you have it all figured out... SHE THROWS IN A PLOT TWIST YOU DID NOT SEE COMING!!!
Stars May Burn has been my favorite book since it released and I have recommended it to many people and read it to my sisters... This book is right up there with it. I love how unique the deity system is, and everything that actually goes into it (you don't see it on the front end, but I can't say anything or I will spoil it).
Ethan, I love you so much 😭 He made me laugh and cry more than most characters do... But he got a lot of highlights! He is so sweet, but it is strange how easy it was for me to be right there with Purity in questioning him... I felt like I was in Puritys shoes through the whole of the book, and it was crazy. I would have loved having his POV, but it added so much to the book without it too (if that makes sense).
Purity was a very relatable character in my opinion... Not in the fact that she is a goddess of course, but the thoughts and emotions and opinions resonated with me a lot. She was a spunky goddess even when she didn't know it, I will say that. I normally don't like the POV being solely from the FL, but it didn't bother me at all with this!
I've said it before and I will say it again... Something is so magical about Ms. Ivinyas writing style... I don't want to skip a word she writes (and I am normally a skimmer). There is something so naturally beautiful about her writing style, the way she describes things, that I can't stop reading!
Ask my family, I was squealing through this book. I was so happy it was over 300 pages (from collaboration series it's normally only 200-250 pages). The only thing I wish had been included was an epilogue... Though I can live without it bc the ending was still good.
Basically, I love this book. The only reason it took me more than a day to finish was due to a cold and dead electronics. Seriously, if you're anything like me, you will devour and adore this book. I'm buying the physical copy as soon as it is available, just saying.
I received a copy of this book as an ARC for free from the author, though all opinions are 100% my own.
Thank you for writing this beautiful book 😩
March 20, 2025
ARC
Born into the world as an adult goddess, Purity has no other job than to be happy and give her Blessing to the people in her district. It all seems so simple at first, but the more Purity thinks about it, the more difficult she finds it. The people around her act strange and the other goddesses aren't what she thought. When she has trouble staying happy, she has caught the attention of the Empress and that is not a good thing especially since it seems she has caught the eye of not one but 2 princes who are searching for a wife. In a world where nothing is as it seems, will Purity be able to stay happy and Bless her people or will she end up retired or worse?
Purity, in my opinion, is what the Graces (goddesses) were meant to be. She is selfless, thoughtful, honest and you get what you see (most of the time). She questions her existence and whether what is going on is right. I love that she has a mind of her own and doesn't just do what she is told. The Aidis is definitely dark and broody. But there is a public and private persona that you have to figure out which one is real. And Purity isn't sure which one is real either after all she has heard from her "family" and the other Graces. The Aidis was a wonderful dark contrast to Purity's light.
The mystery behind all the Graces and the Court intrigue are both wonderfully done. When Purity is "born", everyone around her is so careful and always giving her cryptic warnings. The servants tip toe around her and her "family" will fire anyone not making her happy. And the Graces are all so unnaturally happy and spoiled. It almost has a Stepford Wives feel because you can't pinpoint real emotions often. Then, there are the Graces in the Court who seem to only want one thing - the Prince. You can never know who to trust or what might happen if you put your trust in the wrong person. This book does an amazing job of giving little hints throughout, so I thought I had things figured out, but boy was I short of figuring it out! There was so much more than I had imagined!
The romance was clean and swoony, you felt what you were supposed to whether you were meant to love or hate a character, the intrigue was perfect and the ending was dramatic! Another amazing book in the Tethered Hearts series!
Born into the world as an adult goddess, Purity has no other job than to be happy and give her Blessing to the people in her district. It all seems so simple at first, but the more Purity thinks about it, the more difficult she finds it. The people around her act strange and the other goddesses aren't what she thought. When she has trouble staying happy, she has caught the attention of the Empress and that is not a good thing especially since it seems she has caught the eye of not one but 2 princes who are searching for a wife. In a world where nothing is as it seems, will Purity be able to stay happy and Bless her people or will she end up retired or worse?
Purity, in my opinion, is what the Graces (goddesses) were meant to be. She is selfless, thoughtful, honest and you get what you see (most of the time). She questions her existence and whether what is going on is right. I love that she has a mind of her own and doesn't just do what she is told. The Aidis is definitely dark and broody. But there is a public and private persona that you have to figure out which one is real. And Purity isn't sure which one is real either after all she has heard from her "family" and the other Graces. The Aidis was a wonderful dark contrast to Purity's light.
The mystery behind all the Graces and the Court intrigue are both wonderfully done. When Purity is "born", everyone around her is so careful and always giving her cryptic warnings. The servants tip toe around her and her "family" will fire anyone not making her happy. And the Graces are all so unnaturally happy and spoiled. It almost has a Stepford Wives feel because you can't pinpoint real emotions often. Then, there are the Graces in the Court who seem to only want one thing - the Prince. You can never know who to trust or what might happen if you put your trust in the wrong person. This book does an amazing job of giving little hints throughout, so I thought I had things figured out, but boy was I short of figuring it out! There was so much more than I had imagined!
The romance was clean and swoony, you felt what you were supposed to whether you were meant to love or hate a character, the intrigue was perfect and the ending was dramatic! Another amazing book in the Tethered Hearts series!
April 21, 2025
Purity is new to her role as a Grace and frankly she’s a little uncertain of the rules. Be happy, bless people. But why are all the people who come already rich and well-off? Why can’t she help those who are poor and in need? And why are there so many other rules around those who dwell at the palace?
When she first meets the Ainis, a mysterious man with powers of death, Purity creates such a disaster she’s certain she’ll never be welcomed back. But more is going on behind the curtain and she’s determined to find out the truth.
And if that truth reveals more than she could hope for, well, maybe she was destined for more.
“And he kissed me just as I had craved for a lifetime.”
This was an interesting story. I’m not a fan of stories with a lot of gods and goddesses, so I wasn’t sure what to expect from this. But I loved the twists and the political intrigue!
Ivinya has built an incredible world of beauty, and yet that beauty obscured so much more. It’s hard to talk about this without giving spoilers, but it wasn’t what I was expecting and I really enjoyed it in the end.
The descriptions of the clothing and gardens were incredible and drew you into the story.
While not a direct retelling, this story has a lot of Hades and Persephone vibes that were really good.
5 Roses
Some swoony kisses
Death is a common topic; poisonings and kidnappings (All within the realm of PG13)
A character swears to themself
Characters are referred to as “gods” and “goddesses,” but aren’t worshipped as such.
Small spoiler with a trigger warning: A side character dies by suicide; it is not a major theme nor dwelt upon, but some outdated language is used.
When she first meets the Ainis, a mysterious man with powers of death, Purity creates such a disaster she’s certain she’ll never be welcomed back. But more is going on behind the curtain and she’s determined to find out the truth.
And if that truth reveals more than she could hope for, well, maybe she was destined for more.
“And he kissed me just as I had craved for a lifetime.”
This was an interesting story. I’m not a fan of stories with a lot of gods and goddesses, so I wasn’t sure what to expect from this. But I loved the twists and the political intrigue!
Ivinya has built an incredible world of beauty, and yet that beauty obscured so much more. It’s hard to talk about this without giving spoilers, but it wasn’t what I was expecting and I really enjoyed it in the end.
The descriptions of the clothing and gardens were incredible and drew you into the story.
While not a direct retelling, this story has a lot of Hades and Persephone vibes that were really good.
5 Roses
Some swoony kisses
Death is a common topic; poisonings and kidnappings (All within the realm of PG13)
A character swears to themself
Characters are referred to as “gods” and “goddesses,” but aren’t worshipped as such.
Small spoiler with a trigger warning: A side character dies by suicide; it is not a major theme nor dwelt upon, but some outdated language is used.
June 4, 2025
Persephone With a Touch of Snow
Hmmm. I was soooo hooked by this new version of a Hades/Persephone story. Who was Purity? Who were the Graces? So many intriguing mysteries and lore to untangle. But the final reveal with Constance and Sebastian just didn’t track for me. I didn’t get that satisfying resolution I’d been waiting for.
So much of the story was really clever, like the wink towards Snow White mixed with Persephone, and the mystery surrounding all of the Graces, and the building anticipation of reuniting Ethen with Snow, and the connection to the original gods of death and life were all developed really well.
Ethan, the God of Death, and Snow, a mortal both live and fall in love in the Unseen Lands. For 22 years they longed to be close to each other, touch each other, but because he is a Death God even being near Snow would eventually lead to their death.
Ethan is devastated when Snow dies but holds out hope that she will be resurrected and then they can truly be together. Unfortunately, Snow’s soul is stolen and she wakes up in a different body as a Grace named Purity with no memory of her former life and love for Ethan.
For 3 years Ethan suffers the devastating heartbreak of Snow’s death and searches for her soul among the Graces. When he finally finds her it’s so sweet and poignant, except he still holds back for like the rest of the book from fully rejoicing in the freedom to touch and kiss his mated love of his life. That just did not make sense to me. Plus later throwing shade on him during the final reveal also made no sense in my opinion.
Hmmm. I was soooo hooked by this new version of a Hades/Persephone story. Who was Purity? Who were the Graces? So many intriguing mysteries and lore to untangle. But the final reveal with Constance and Sebastian just didn’t track for me. I didn’t get that satisfying resolution I’d been waiting for.
So much of the story was really clever, like the wink towards Snow White mixed with Persephone, and the mystery surrounding all of the Graces, and the building anticipation of reuniting Ethen with Snow, and the connection to the original gods of death and life were all developed really well.
Ethan, the God of Death, and Snow, a mortal both live and fall in love in the Unseen Lands. For 22 years they longed to be close to each other, touch each other, but because he is a Death God even being near Snow would eventually lead to their death.
Ethan is devastated when Snow dies but holds out hope that she will be resurrected and then they can truly be together. Unfortunately, Snow’s soul is stolen and she wakes up in a different body as a Grace named Purity with no memory of her former life and love for Ethan.
For 3 years Ethan suffers the devastating heartbreak of Snow’s death and searches for her soul among the Graces. When he finally finds her it’s so sweet and poignant, except he still holds back for like the rest of the book from fully rejoicing in the freedom to touch and kiss his mated love of his life. That just did not make sense to me. Plus later throwing shade on him during the final reveal also made no sense in my opinion.
March 1, 2025
Ties of Deception by Alice Ivinya is a living in a world that seems to be just too perfect.
** I would like to express my thanks to ☆ Alice Ivinya ☆ for providing me this ARC in exchange for an honest review **
Uh? Wow? That was one of my first thoughts to this book. The concept was interesting, and the writing was exceptional. I thoroughly enjoyed the world building and the inner character’s thoughts. Imagine if all you have to do is be happy. That sounds nice, right? But then when you keep thinking about that concept there seems to be issue after issue. Everything seems perfect, but there is just a voice in the back of your head that is always saying… “this doesn’t seem right.”
The author does a great job at setting up doubt in all of the characters. Who can we trust? Situations that make our trust falter, and things that just don’t add up, but the result is there. The main character really had a lot of this way and that to sift through to figure out her role in life. The world building is interesting and there are questions at every turn that keeps you hooked. I especially did not see the ending coming. As the FMC had to sift through and fight for the truth, and to struggle to find allies in the court, this book had me on my seat the entire time. The interactions between the characters were chef’s kiss, and I loved the way that this was set up and finished.
Highly recommend if you are looking for a book that has new information at every turn, lovable characters, and a mystery that needs to be solved, this is for you!
** I would like to express my thanks to ☆ Alice Ivinya ☆ for providing me this ARC in exchange for an honest review **
Uh? Wow? That was one of my first thoughts to this book. The concept was interesting, and the writing was exceptional. I thoroughly enjoyed the world building and the inner character’s thoughts. Imagine if all you have to do is be happy. That sounds nice, right? But then when you keep thinking about that concept there seems to be issue after issue. Everything seems perfect, but there is just a voice in the back of your head that is always saying… “this doesn’t seem right.”
The author does a great job at setting up doubt in all of the characters. Who can we trust? Situations that make our trust falter, and things that just don’t add up, but the result is there. The main character really had a lot of this way and that to sift through to figure out her role in life. The world building is interesting and there are questions at every turn that keeps you hooked. I especially did not see the ending coming. As the FMC had to sift through and fight for the truth, and to struggle to find allies in the court, this book had me on my seat the entire time. The interactions between the characters were chef’s kiss, and I loved the way that this was set up and finished.
Highly recommend if you are looking for a book that has new information at every turn, lovable characters, and a mystery that needs to be solved, this is for you!
March 23, 2025
A new goddess is born, a Grace by the name of Purity. She doesn't understand how she can be born as an adult, already knowing likes and dislikes, how she knows some things but not others, and that she is being talked down to and sheltered. She is told her happiness brings Blessing and prosperity, that she shouldn't worry about anything that would bring about negative emotions. But without fully understanding what is going on around her, how is she to be truly happy? She is invited by the empress to a party, her host family feeling that this is too soon. Determined to show she can do this, she goes. While there she discovers the selfishness and superficial trappings of the other Graces and runs across the dangerous Aidis. Something isn't right at the palace, she just wants to go home and Bless those in need. The Aidis follows her home, telling her he can show her the truth that she is being shielded from. However, once she knows there is no going back.
Something that grew on me as I read and got introduced to this story is the reader is just as jarred about the events as Purity is. And as she learns and understands, so do we. A few pieces were a little predictable like how one of the princes had ulterior motives. But the final chapters and climatic end I was not expecting and felt very justified and vindicated in how everything played out. I loved the characters, wish we got a bit more of some of the Aida characters though. This story has bits of Hades and Persephone and similarities but isn't strictly that myth either. I look forward to more from this author.
Something that grew on me as I read and got introduced to this story is the reader is just as jarred about the events as Purity is. And as she learns and understands, so do we. A few pieces were a little predictable like how one of the princes had ulterior motives. But the final chapters and climatic end I was not expecting and felt very justified and vindicated in how everything played out. I loved the characters, wish we got a bit more of some of the Aida characters though. This story has bits of Hades and Persephone and similarities but isn't strictly that myth either. I look forward to more from this author.
April 15, 2025
Mini Review*
This one was a whole different ballgame than the last book! It was different in many ways, some good and some (I would say) not so great. The plot was very interesting and kept me reading, and so did the romance… what I didn’t like, however, is the whole being “gods” thing. I mean, I don’t care if books have Greek mythology or just involve gods; it’s just how much detail and how the whole plot revolves around them being gods that I didn’t like. The whole story of the MMC being the god of death and the FMC being one of the created goddesses that brings happiness and light to their world.. I just didn’t care for it.
Anyways, getting all of that off my chest..
I did like Ethen though!! He was actually soo adorably smitten and obviously in love with the FMC..speaking of which, it did take me a little longer to like Purity because she seemed younger than she actually was..
SPOILER!! ⚠️⬇️
(which made some sense because she was born literally when the book began)
But yeah! Even though I would’ve liked a lot less of the whole “gods” plot, I did enjoy this book! The characters were great and I especially liked Ethen’s friends😏.
I would still recommend this book.. but I would caution to those who dislike Greek or Roman mythology.
Age recommendation: 15-16+
(Clean closed door romance- up to mildly detailed kissing)
*No language*
I enjoyed this book and hope to continue this series! 😁😄
This one was a whole different ballgame than the last book! It was different in many ways, some good and some (I would say) not so great. The plot was very interesting and kept me reading, and so did the romance… what I didn’t like, however, is the whole being “gods” thing. I mean, I don’t care if books have Greek mythology or just involve gods; it’s just how much detail and how the whole plot revolves around them being gods that I didn’t like. The whole story of the MMC being the god of death and the FMC being one of the created goddesses that brings happiness and light to their world.. I just didn’t care for it.
Anyways, getting all of that off my chest..
I did like Ethen though!! He was actually soo adorably smitten and obviously in love with the FMC..speaking of which, it did take me a little longer to like Purity because she seemed younger than she actually was..
SPOILER!! ⚠️⬇️
(which made some sense because she was born literally when the book began)
But yeah! Even though I would’ve liked a lot less of the whole “gods” plot, I did enjoy this book! The characters were great and I especially liked Ethen’s friends😏.
I would still recommend this book.. but I would caution to those who dislike Greek or Roman mythology.
Age recommendation: 15-16+
(Clean closed door romance- up to mildly detailed kissing)
*No language*
I enjoyed this book and hope to continue this series! 😁😄
April 21, 2025
While I definitely enjoyed this book, and I think for other people, it will be an absolute winner, I struggled with certain aspects of the story that weren't a hit for me personally.
I did manage to figure out who the bad guy was before the end, although I have to admit, I didn't fully guess the twist, and I did like the way the story wrapped up. If you enjoy Hades and Persephone retellings, this story will provide a new and interesting read for you!
I did manage to figure out who the bad guy was before the end, although I have to admit, I didn't fully guess the twist, and I did like the way the story wrapped up. If you enjoy Hades and Persephone retellings, this story will provide a new and interesting read for you!
March 12, 2025
This was an interesting read. I’ve never read a Hades & Persephone retelling before (honestly I’m not super familiar with the original). I was a bit wary going in. This was nothing like I expected but it was a really good read. Our heroine wakes up as an adult with no memories and is told she is a newly born goddess, called a Grace, and her only job is to be happy because it will bless people. She is warned away, specifically, from the Aidis, our hero. He is a god from the Unseen Lands and their people are known to kidnap Graces and take them back to be their wives. This book has some politics with the empress and Prince and other Graces who want to marry into royalty. I was intrigued by things and curious about some of the mystery hovering around. I enjoyed guessing some of the things before they happened. Both of our MCs have super soft hearts and it was fun to see it displayed in such an “icy” hero. This is my second book in the multi author series and I’m excited to read more. After reading this, I’d definitely try another Hades & Persephone retelling. It was different with the whole gods and goddesses thing, but I just suspended reality and felt like I was in a Greek mythology book. 4.5 stars rounded up to 5.
I received an eARC of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received an eARC of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
April 8, 2025
An interesting twist on reincarnation and the tale of Hades and Persephone.
I loved the symbolism throughout and the play on life and death, light and dark and especially loved the fated ones or soul mates.
I give this 3.5 ⭐️ because it was slow to start for me and it was hard to keep my attention, however it does pick up when Purity and Ethen begin to meet up and she sees the world behind the glitz and luxury.
Their relationship unfolding was incredibly sweet. He truly cherished and loved her.
I loved how the story evolved from Purity’s point of view. We learned the world, its workings and politics right alongside her. It made the story enfold in a way that made you feel right alongside her.
I wish that we could have seen how things unfolded after Purity and Ethen had their happily ever after, especially in regards to the empress, the Aida and I am curious as to what happened to Flavia.
A m/f romantic fantasy full of intrigue, magic fueled by emotion, gods and goddesses, reincarnation, second chance love, he falls first, fated mates and happily ever after.
Single POV told in first person
Characters -
Purity - Grace of Atos
Ethen - the Aidis of the Unseen Lands
Steam - kissing, probably the sweetest kisses in the fact that he waited her entire lifetime in order to have their first kiss 🥰🥰🥰 sooo sooo good
I loved the symbolism throughout and the play on life and death, light and dark and especially loved the fated ones or soul mates.
I give this 3.5 ⭐️ because it was slow to start for me and it was hard to keep my attention, however it does pick up when Purity and Ethen begin to meet up and she sees the world behind the glitz and luxury.
Their relationship unfolding was incredibly sweet. He truly cherished and loved her.
I loved how the story evolved from Purity’s point of view. We learned the world, its workings and politics right alongside her. It made the story enfold in a way that made you feel right alongside her.
I wish that we could have seen how things unfolded after Purity and Ethen had their happily ever after, especially in regards to the empress, the Aida and I am curious as to what happened to Flavia.
A m/f romantic fantasy full of intrigue, magic fueled by emotion, gods and goddesses, reincarnation, second chance love, he falls first, fated mates and happily ever after.
Single POV told in first person
Characters -
Purity - Grace of Atos
Ethen - the Aidis of the Unseen Lands
Steam - kissing, probably the sweetest kisses in the fact that he waited her entire lifetime in order to have their first kiss 🥰🥰🥰 sooo sooo good
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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