The Perfect Matchmaking

by Milena McKay

Life of a Goddess is hard.

There are so many rules.

Rule Number 1: Organize the Annual Cupids’ Convention in Las Vegas.
Rule Number 2: Don't let Zeus interfere.
Rule Number 3: When Zeus inevitably interferes, avoid getting ambushed by cupids at all cost. Even if it means missing out on your Perfect Match.

When the Goddess of Love herself is made to run the gamut of tropes, from enemies to lover and second chance romance to friends to lovers and close proximity, will she keep her independence from the ever meddling Olympians, or will she chose to surrender to a well-placed cupid's arrow?

The Cupids are back! Sabine and Abby are bringing with them a steamy and highly trope'y second installment in the Perfect Match series, filled to the brim with mischievous deities, intrigue-weaving gods and attractive elbow patches (trust me, you'll want to read about those!)

Genres: Lesbian, Romance, Fantasy, Audiobook, Novella, Queer, LGBT

116 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 11, 2025

About the author

Milena McKay is a Lambda Literary and Golden Crown Literary Society award-winning sapphic fiction author.

She is a cat whisperer who wears four-inch heels for work while secretly dreaming of her extensive Converse collection. Would live on blueberries and lattes if she could.

Milena can recite certain episodes of The West Wing by heart and quote “Pride and Prejudice” in her sleep. Her love for Cate Blanchett's Carol Aird knows no bounds.

www.milenamckay.com

Reviews

[JulesGP · Rating 5 out of 5]

5/31/25 Update: Listened to audiobook this time around. Abby Craden’s voice is a perfect fit for Aphrodite’s powerful sexiness and Athena’s brainy sensuality. Now I am ready for Book 3.

I was excited to read this sequel because I had a great time with The Perfect Match. The new story jumps ahead three years but the setting is again the Annual Cupids’ Convention in Las Vegas. Aphrodite has sworn off love due to a past of messy relationships. Zeus does not approve that the Goddess of Love is not married or hooked up so he challenges all Cupids to make it happen for Aphrodite at the upcoming Convention.

Aphrodite made a strong appearance in the first novella but she makes her mark here. Strong, independent, and gorgeous. She’s nobody’s fool and is determined to rule her own destiny. But when love is inevitable, Aphrodite has to decide if she should get out of her own way. The build up to the romance is delicious. The story is self aware so it plays with tropes and structure, adding to the humor, a wink of an eye to romance readers. But my favorite thing about the book is the sharp dialogue and the quick banter. Always a pleasure to read this author’s stories because of the quality writing. For fans of the first book, Sabine and Abby are back as well. Highly recommend both books for fun and sexy times.

Thank you to the author for an ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Jude Silberfeld-Grimaud · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I read The Perfect Match in 2021, a few days after falling in love with Milena McKay’s debut, The Delicate Things We Make, the fact that these two books were so different blew my mind. TDTWM showcased the beautiful writing and delicious angst that have since become the author’s trademark. While just as well-written, The Perfect Match is hilarious, a comedy of hot cupids and foolish gods and goddesses. It’s no secret that I’m a huge fan of Milena McKay’s books, the angstier the better—I still can’t decide whether Reverence has replaced A Whisper of Solace as my favourite. Yet these Cupids stole my heart in a couple of hours and I’ve been hoping for four long years for a sequel. Okay, this might be a bit of an exaggeration since I got to read The Perfect Matchmaking way before its release (you’ll see my name among the editing team) but it’s not the same when you can’t share the joy and the love for a book with other readers, when you can’t delight in others’ enthusiastic reviews, when you can’t recommend it to your friends despite knowing they’ll adore it too. That time has come though and I’m so here for it.

The Perfect Matchmaking is Aphrodite’s book, Love herself fighting for the right to make her own choices. Even bad ones. When Zeus summons the whole Olympian family to the annual Cupid convention in Las Vegas, the goddess of Love in turn drags her former star Sabine Goddard out of retirement. Sabine and Abby are now married, still swooning on every occasion after three years, still so adorable that their very healthy sex life and the unabashed bragging aren’t even a tiny bit obnoxious. As she strives to reassert her freedom and independence, Aphrodite reluctantly falls for the silent, tweed-wearing goddess of Wisdom, Athena. Besides Sabine and Abby, her friend Erato also pushes her out of her comfort zone and into muscular arms and strong hands.

I wrote only one sentence while listening to Abby Craden narrating this story and basking in the delight that is this novella: “I love Erato”. I bet you will too. I loved a lot more than just the muse of erotic poetry, however. I enjoyed the enemies-to-lovers, opposites-attract back and forth between the two goddesses, Abby and Sabine’s sharp wit, their happiness too, all the spice, everything Apollo (thankfully no spice there), and yes, as stated earlier, everything Erato as well.

The humour that surprised me in the first Cupids & Goddesses book (and which I have since experienced many times IRL) is still here, but the underlying themes touch on more serious considerations. McKay finds the ideal balance between substance and lightheartedness, food for thoughts peeking from beneath layers of clever banter and endearingly silly puns. And in true McKay fashion, she drops hints here and there, teasing the next story. If you can’t wait, you might want to join her Patreon…

Video review: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DGBiTo...

I received a copy from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.

Read all my reviews on my website (and please get your books from the affiliation links!): Jude in the Stars

[Corporate Slave · Rating 5 out of 5]

The happiness I get when this author releases a book 😁
As usual, the easiest 5 star rating!

[BookishKB · Rating 3 out of 5]

I didn’t enjoy this as much as the first in the series. It wasn’t as funny or engaging.

[Emily Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.7 ⭐️ The perfect cozy romance series. Fluffy, a little smutty, comforting novellas that leave you smiling.

I did prefer book one more but that’s more of a personal taste thing, I loved the fake dating and forced proximity tropes in that.

Saying that I still adored this one, you have two goddesses (Aphrodite & Athena) with closed off & calm and patient vibes that make for a fun read.

My notes on the book were simply, ‘Athena, goddess of wisdom, patiently waiting for Aphrodite to get her shit together.’ In other words, go read this 🙂‍↕️

Rep// bi/pan? Woman MC, WLW MC. Central romance is WLW / Sapphic.

Spice// Multiple short scenes. Small dash of spice on page.

[Swaye · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perfect! I've been shipping Aphrodite and Athena since I was a hopelessly romantic, dorky little teenager, swooning over the goddesses of Greek mythology (nothing much has changed). So, this was an absolute dream come true for me. And I couldn't have asked for a better duo than Milena McKay and Abby Craden to bring it to life. I'm already looking forward to the next installment of Cupids & Goddesses next Valentine's Day. 🥰💘

[Guerunche · Rating 4 out of 5]

A sweet, fun, tongue-in-cheek novella narrated by the voice of Milena McKay, the wonderful Abby Craden.

[Sterling Sapphic Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Milena McKay’s The Perfect Matchmaking: Another Valentine's Day Novella is an absolute delight—a swoon-worthy, laugh-out-loud, and completely irresistible sapphic take on Greek mythology that delivers on every romantic trope you could dream of. If you’ve ever imagined what would happen if Aphrodite and Athena were thrown into a whirlwind of second-chance tension, friends-to-lovers yearning, and the mischievous meddling of gods and cupids alike, this book is your answer.

Aphrodite, the goddess of love herself, is already juggling the chaos of organizing the annual Cupids' Convention when Zeus (of course) decides to interfere. What follows is an exhilarating blend of sharp wit, sizzling chemistry, and divine shenanigans as Aphrodite finds herself navigating the ultimate test: her own heart. The dynamic between her and Athena is nothing short of electric, blending centuries of history with fresh, playful banter that makes every interaction feel like a reward. And then there’s Erato, Aphrodite’s assistant, whose outrageous humor, insatiable thirst, and knack for stirring the pot add a layer of pure comedic brilliance to the story.

McKay’s writing is sharp, smart, and endlessly entertaining. Every chapter title is a clever gem, and the pacing keeps you hooked from start to finish. The mythology is woven in beautifully, making the world feel both familiar and excitingly new, and the romance? Utterly divine.

If you love mythology with a modern, sapphic twist, impeccable humor, and the kind of romance that leaves you grinning like an idiot, The Perfect Matchmaking is a must-read. And with the tantalizing setup for book three, I already know I’ll be first in line when it drops.

Thank you to Milena McKay for an e-arc in exchange for an honest review.

[Lez_be_readin_ya · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an exceptional novel. Set four years after the first instalment, it depicts Sabine and Abby, now happily married for three years, still deeply in love. The narrative centres on Aphrodite's quest to curtail Zeus's interference in her affairs.

Aphrodite and Athena's unexpected encounter unfolds into a captivating narrative, marked by a compelling development of their relationship as circumstances force them together. Their dynamic, defying simple categorization as either enemies-to-lovers or friends-to-lovers is masterfully crafted, leaving the reader eager for more. However, Aphrodite's past trauma influences her behaviour, leading her to maintain emotional distance and reserve.

As a side note, Erato, Aphrodite's assistant and muse, possesses a delightful sense of humour and gossip like no tomorrow and is a massive horedog. Erato was one of my favourite characters in this book.

I eagerly anticipate the release of Book Three. Following the conclusion of Book Two, I expect Book Three to be equally as captivating as its predecessors.

Star rating. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice rating. 🔥🔥🔥

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

[Gabriella · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars. This was cute! I love Aphrodite and Athena together. Talk about two swoon-worthy women, especially Athena! 😍

Unfortunately I felt a little bit of disconnect while reading this. Maybe that’s also the problem I had with the first book. I feel like the whole cupids/goddesses situation should feel more…grand? Instead, the way everything is written felt kinda lackluster. I really don’t know how to explain this more eloquently. 🤣 And I’m also clearly in the minority with this opinion, so it’s probably just a me thing.

But as always, McKay has written a great love story with a wonderful message. I’m always looking forward to reading more from her!

[Jamie (TheRebelliousReader) · Rating 4 out of 5]

✔Sapphic Book Bingo Challenge 2025 🌈✨: Main Board - Witty Banter

4.5 stars. I really enjoyed the first book but I loved this one! Aphrodite my love! She was a character in the first one and I was low key obsessed with her then so to see her get her own story was great. She’s a fantastic character and there’s just something about her that makes me swoon. She’s a bit stand off and very witty and I just love her character so much. And then you have Athena and holy shit is she a babe. The chemistry between her and Aphrodite was so damn good. They have some fun banter and things get a bit hot and heavy between them even though Aphrodite isn’t looking for a relationship or romance. It was easy to see why she fell for Athena though.

This was such a good time. We also get to see more of Abby and Sabine which was lovely. Love those two and it was great to catch up with them. I really want more in this series because it’s such a good time.

[Aunt Missa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Aphrodite and Athena…for Valentine’s Day? Yes, please. This novella has ALL the tropes and has them on purpose. Milena’s chapter titles are so clever and funny, and, damn, she just writes so smartly. Somehow, she has broken the 4th wall, so to speak, in this story and it’s powerful and personal. The use of figurative language is beautiful, as always.

The theme that love cannot be dictated by others, even by those who have significant power, is wholly resonant. And it’s just friggin’ holiday fun.

[Cherie · Rating 3 out of 5]

My favorite part of this one was Aphrodite’s nick name being “Dite”. I’m a fan of nick names and terms of endearment. 😍🫠

[Simone11 · Rating 4 out of 5]

4,5 ⭐️

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

If I ever come across a book by Milena McKay, I’m definitely going to pick it up! I enjoyed reading The Perfect Matchmaking….even though it was a short read.

[♡Matty♡ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Easily a 5 star read! I love that we got to visit with Abby and Sabine, adore them. And to witness the Goddess of love herself find her happily ever after? Sublime.

[MissAlice · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good lord do not listen to this one in the car if you go the Audible route! Between steamy windows and sideway glances I felt debauched in the perfect way. Loved this little slice of happiness and great to see our dynamic duo return for some cameos.

[zara · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5/5 stars

read this in one sitting i didn't even realize just how appealing a romance between aphrodite and athena can be lol

[MarsBar · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 🌟

I’ve actually looked up Aphrodite x Athena fanfics before and I love their pairing, so I was super excited to find out McKay wrote an actual novella with these two!! The main reason this didn’t completely satisfy though was because Athena wasn’t quite what I expected her to be like (I actually found her personality a bit confusing, where she’s shy one minute and then bold and outspoken the next), and in general I found the writing to be lacking a bit compared to the authors full length novels (which I always enjoy). Still a cute short read though ✨

[Caitlin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think these novellas work well just reading back to back because it feels like it's a longer novel haha. It was fun to have the higher up goddesses be involved in this one. Some parts were a little stiff but I still enjoyed it overall.

[Bree · Rating 3 out of 5]

I didn’t enjoy The Perfect Matchmaking as much as I thought I would 🥴 I guess this just wasn’t for me. However, the novella was a very easy read and I see why others would like it.

[Andrea (looseleftlesbian) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Aphrodite and Athena are literally the cutest. I want a full novel 😅😫

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my goddess! Loved this more than The Perfect Match.

Cannot wait until next Valentine’s because there has to be more from Sabine 😉

[Melissa · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was another short and sweet romance, but not as fun and engaging as the first part in this series. For some reason, I did not empathize with Aphrodite that much, making some parts of the story a bit boring. I did like the reimagining of Athena as a butch lesbian. 

[Colleen Lynch · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF

[Cam Bautista · Rating 5 out of 5]

this was perfection!!!

[Mila Smith · Rating 3 out of 5]

3⭐️

This book was incredibly easy to read & Milena McKay will always be an auto-read author — I will say this book didn’t hit me as hard as the first one did.

I still felt a bit confused about some topics brought up in the story - it felt a bit vague.

What do I mean by this? < spoilers ahead ish>

↪️The story is set up to be relatively light hearted but intersperesed in it are references to Aphrodite’s past and how she didn’t have a choice with who she matched with.

And while we’re made aware that she resented that — it didn’t feel like there were any stakes involved. I feel like we didn’t really go deep enough into what that means that it wasn’t her choice and the consequences she could’ve faced— did she feel abused in the relationship? Trapped? Was it 100% not consensual? She seemed to interact a bit with her exes in the novella leads me to believe it was consensual in that regard but it just felt like the weight of the statement never got expanded upon.

I think what confused me is that this book is a novella & is relatively light hearted - but then you have references to Aphrodite’s past of having no choice and her anxiety as a result - but none of that feels effective in my opinion - because it isn’t addressed with a huge amount of gravity. We don’t know the stakes. What would happen if she said no to the match? Would she get killed? Exiled? I felt like we didn’t get enough scope.

Not sure if I’m making sense - overall— would still recommend this is you’re looking for a cute sapphic read that was just my one 🤔 with it…

[Candace Aresfury · Rating 3 out of 5]

I didn’t enjoy this one as much as the first. Still a good book though and I’m happy I read it.

[Jennifer KB]

If you were that kid that sat in the library’s corner with the giant Bullfinch’s Greek Mythology book, then this novella is a treat for your sapphic loving heart. The 2nd story just in time for Valentine’s Day has us picking up where couple #1 Abby and Sabine left off and brings us to Goddess of Love herself, Aphrodite. 1st, I never laughed so hard at the descriptions of the other Gods and Goddesses. Next, isn’t it something that we have to wonder how love is achieved and who gets a say in that? No spoilers but let’s say that we enjoy finding out if the Heart can find Wisdom, and if Wisdom can find the Heart. And I can’t help it, McKay can send me from laughter to tears in a minute when we consider how profound it is that you get to make that choice, and that Love is Freedom and Freedom is Love. How prescient indeed. Also, enjoy the spice - nothing like epic caliente lovin. Looking forward to Erato’s story- please Goddess, I hope it’s who I think it is.

I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review

[Rey Hawke · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5