Hades and Persephone - The Giftless Goddess

Gods of Myth #4

by Alannah Carbonneau

400 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 10, 2025

About the author

Born and raised in Alberta, Canada, Alannah Carbonneau is only a short drive away from the Rocky Mountains that have a staring place in so many of her novels. With seventeen novels and counting currently available on Amazon, Alannah is not only a full-time author, but a full-time mom of two beautiful boys, and wife to an amazing man who always has her back. She lives in a rambling ranch house that needs way too many renos and has one too many cats, but she is happy and in love.

With a solid circle of friends and family, and a very manly, supportive husband who does his best to make sure his family is taken care of, Alannah’s novels feature manly men (sometimes they can be a LOT manly) and friend/family relationships weaved into the stories, because life is about a whole mess of people, and although this is fiction, the best fiction is sprinkled with sweet (and sometimes not so sweet) bits of reality.

Because she loves romance, Alannah writes Contemporary and New Adult Romance. Soon to be released is the Creekwood Valley Series that has ties to the reader beloved Donnelley Brother Series, where light suspense and romance weave to create titillating stories that not only steal your heart but keep you on the edge of your seat. She is the author of the highly rated Teach Me Series, an emotional read about love, life and lessons learned. Our Dark Design is a standalone erotic romance peppered with enough suspense to keep you turning the pages, and The Choice is an entirely unconventional standalone romance about three.

She is currently working on a Cross World Fantasy Romance Series for Adults she can’t wait to share with you, because this will feature hot men who are a little bit dominant and a lot protective who are head over heels in love with stubborn, magnificent women.

When Alannah isn’t writing or spending time with her three men, she can be found in her garden, or with a paint brush in hand. But no matter where she is or what she’s doing, you can bet that she’s thinking of a love story she can share with you.

Reviews

[Katie(K-bugsBookNook) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was definitely a fitting end to a series that grabbed my attention from the beginning.

I really love how Persephone really seemed to have the most development in this book. She went from scared, frightened farm girl who'd begun to accept the truth in Hades words to a powerful goddess who was truly fitting of being the equal of the feared God of the Underworld. All without losing sight of what made her unique in comparison to the Persephone that Hades had initially fallen in love with so long ago.

I also appreciate the way that the author integrated the pregnancy trope into the story. Not only was it different from anything I've ever read before but it also lent itself beautifully the fact that this Persephone was vastly different from the Goddess of mythology & wasn't gonna let a pregnancy stop her from what she knew needed to be done. Even if it massively pissed off her husband.

I received this as an ARC from BookSirens but this review was freely given after having devoured the book in a single day.

[Laurie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This isn’t your typical Hades and Persephone retelling. It’s darker, more emotional, and deeply character-driven. Persephone isn’t just a symbol of spring—she’s fierce, questioning everything she’s been taught, and finally carving out a path of her own.

Hades is mysterious, intense, and impossible to ignore. The dynamic between them is slow-burning and full of tension. Every interaction feels loaded, and the chemistry is undeniable.

The world-building is immersive, the writing is lush, and the emotional stakes are high. If you’re into myth retellings with depth, darkness, and powerful character arcs, this one hits hard.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Dark, magnetic, and emotionally rich—this Hades and Persephone retelling is a must-read.

[Brita Mackay · Rating 5 out of 5]

All Persephone's life, she's had questions, holes – gaps in her mind.
Now though, everything seems to be way too clear.
Everything around Persephone is crumbling, everything is not what she thought, as the truth she can no longer deny its place with a violence that leaves her trembling.
Reality is distorting, making room for a fate she wishes they didn't have to face.
Grief weighs heavy on her heart, like a burden, but for them – for life – She's going to fight.
Even if she has to use her last breath.
Even if it takes the last beat of her ravaged heart.

Hades has always played the game of sacrifice.
But, now he has to sacrifice them – now that that's the case, he's no longer certain he wishes to save the realms.
This time, he considers falling into the monster myth painted him out to be.
Instead, Hades is bound by a fate he can't start to fight.
Hades may be the God of the Underworld, he he'll always be a pawn in the game they all play, bound by rules far more ancient than him.
The cost is far too high. And it's growing each and every day she's away from him.
Still, he searches for some way to break the binds of that ancient deal he struck so long ago.
To bring Persephone home, unharmed, from the Gods who hold her – a prisoner of some blood deal – held in the dangerous realm of Olympus.
But Persephone is my cunning little goddess, has a plan of her own.
She has a plan to destroy all those who have sought to ruin us both.
This is our last chance to save the realms.
And if we fail...

Authors Note:
This is the final book in the Hades and Persephone Series. The end involves a wrap-up of their story, even as it leads into the set-up for other Gods to have their own stories. As always, happiest of reading!

The Giftless Goddess by Alannah Carbonneau is the 5th and final book in the Hades and Persephone Series. I have been reading and loving this series since the first book and while I am sad that this is the final book in the Hades and Persephone series I love how the ending of this series opens up the world for new books for the other Gods. And honestly, I can't wait to read those books. And I know that I can revisit Hades and Persephone any time that I want to by rereading this amazing series.

This has been an amazing journey with both Hades and Persephone and entering this 5th and final chapter was kind of bittersweet. The enter series has been such a roller-coaster of emotions and this book was no different.

This book is full of twists and turns, ups and downs and it's a roller-coaster of emotions all of its own. Of all the books in the series I don't think there has been another book out of the series that I have cried more. And to read how it all comes to a conclusion and finally ends.

The epilogue was the perfect ending to Hades and Persephone's story even though it did leave you wanting to know what was going to happen next because it does leave that little breadcrumb open. The ending leaves you hoping that you are going to get to see more of Hades and Persephone in the next books of Ares and Poseidon.

Speaking of Ares and Poseidon, I can't wait to read their books. And I hope they come out soon because I can't wait to read their stories and I just want more of this world and more of these characters.

If you haven't read this series yet, I highly recommend it. I love Alannah Carbonneau, maybe I am a bit biased as she is a fellow Albertan, but I love her writing style and I love the stories that she weaves. I can't wait for her next books to come out and she has earned a loyal fan in me.

[Stacey T · Rating 4 out of 5]

The final chapter (4.5*) in this series masterfully unveils the profound connection between Hades and Persephone, illustrating their unwavering love that shapes the destiny ahead. As Persephone retrieves all her memories from her time as a goddess, her incredible journey unfolds in unexpected ways. Despite Hades’ deep concerns, Persephone must travel to Olympus to honor an ancient bargain, leaving everyone anxious for her safety, fully aware of the lurking evil disguised behind the divine facade. Upon entering Olympus with her friends, Persephone is blindsided by the horrific realities that await her. The depravity of the gods nauseates her, yet amidst this chaos, she discovers her true power and the prophetic warnings the Fates have laid out for her future. Through heart-wrenching grief and unimaginable loss, Hades and Persephone forge an eternal bond, clinging to the hope that their sacrifices will pave the way for a brighter future for humanity.
This installment is every bit as compelling as its predecessors, leaving readers eager for sequels that will expand on this captivating saga through the eyes of other gods. The chemistry and love between Hades and Persephone electrify the pages, enhanced by their steadfast friends and intriguing new characters who enrich the narrative's depth. The underlying themes of power and corruption resonate poignantly, showcasing how easily they can manipulate and harm the unsuspecting. Overall, this was a fantastic conclusion to an impactful story. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[ReadswithGrace · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.6 ⭐️

I want to first preface this review by saying that these are just my own personal opinions based on my tastes and the vibes as I was reading. If you disagree, I truly love that for you! Everyone has a variety of different perspectives and tastes 🤍


This is the fourth and final addition to the Hades and Persephone saga in the Gods of Myth which is a series I have been obsessed with since binge reading them a few months ago. I have always been enraptured by Hades and Persephone and have read many series based on their myths.
The storyline in these books are unlike anything I’ve ever read.
The yearning and romance was so so good it had me blushing and immediately falling for the characters. Hades in particular 🤭

And while this series captivated me…this one felt lacking.
The whole ending seemed so fast paced and packed full of new characters and situations that I feel it could have been stretched out another 200 or so pages. Especially the ending.
I also felt that the focus was taken off of Hades a little too much. Like he was just kind of “there”, but again, that just my personal opinion and preference.
Although I was disappointed in this last book, the series will most definitely be a reread for me. Alannah’s writing and world is beautiful and I can’t wait to continue the stories!

[Nikki'J' · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was the big finish to Alannah's series, and I have to say she wrapped it up beautifully but not without some twists and turns that pulled my emotions all over the place.

The cliffhanger from book three turned out to not be as I expected at all. In fact, it introduced as to a new character that become very important to the remainder of the story.

I found that this was story let Persephone shine and let her come into her own as both the goddess she once was woman she grew to be once reborn. The two together were quite magnificent and I think it gave Persephone another depth.

Hades as a character is solid and this story showed a whole lot more of how he is a misunderstood god and that bad isn't always the worst thing out there. His shinning glory though was the utter adoration he had for Persephone and the care he had of underworld and those in it.

The twists that Alannah wove through this story kept this book moving along and had me invested. I will admit that she even had me shedding a few tears.

Hades and Persephone might have got a happy ending, but it wasn't without some heart break along the way. I'm looking forward to more of the characters we've met popping up in the next books centred around the gods.

Happy Reading.

[jessi_reading_corner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely phenomenal.✨

Straight back into where we left off in book 3. Persephone spends time with Hydra and learns a lot of things about the past that she just couldn't piece together. The prophecies, The learning of what is to come, what has to come. I'm not afraid to admit I sobbed like a baby, I was only 17% into the book!
I loved the descriptions of The Moirai, really in-depth, it felt like I was looking at them with my own eyes.
My heart bled for H&P the heart wrenching decision that had to be made, for the greater good.
The spice, spice, just right! I adore the bond that H&P have.
The book gets better and better with more twists.
I really like Hecate, I would love to learn of her story. She fascinates me.
Olympus was nothing like I thought it would be!
"I am coming, my Persephone" 😍 Everyone needs themselves their own Hydra 💜

What a way to end an amazing series!
I can't wait to hear from Ares and Poseidon next!

[Christina · Rating 5 out of 5]

*Received as an ARC*

As much as it saddens me to reach the end of Hades and Persephone’s story, I feel deeply satisfied with the closure this final installment provided. Alannah has crafted this series with such care and precision—every moment has been a joy to experience. I fell in love with the characters almost instantly, and that connection only deepened with each book.

Their journey began in tragedy and ended in sorrow, yet within that sorrow was a profound and breathtaking beauty. It’s a rare gift to find a story that can break your heart and heal it at the same time.

I’m incredibly excited to see where Alannah takes us next with Poseidon and Ares. Knowing who their fated mates are already adds an extra layer of anticipation, and I can’t wait to dive into their stories.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

The stakes continue to raise in the conclusion of the story. Persephone has fully come into her memories once again and is thriving as queen of the underworld, but there is a fated future to contend with as well as a centuries old deal for her to return to Olympus part time. Is Olympus really the happy place that we've always learned it was, though? Persephone's life may be on the line as she maintains her part of the deal.

This book was a good conclusion to the story that we have now been reading for four books, but there are some loose ends at the end with a promise of more stories to come for other gods.

[Grinning Cat · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Hades and Persephone myth may be a well-known story, but this book is very fresh and compelling.

This book… the word “lush” came to mind because it is very sensual in the meaning of appealing to the senses.

The book is a rich tapestry of complex characters who are more than their mythological counterparts. I particularly like the two main characters and Ares. Persephone has a power that she has finally learned to own and I enjoyed following her growth cycle. Hades has always been the sexiest of the Greek gods, and he doesn’t disappoint. I’m also very glad that Ares is getting his own story because he definitely intrigued me. He is more than the meathead of the myths.

[Makenna Moffat · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love this series! I have been lucky enough to be an ARC reader for this series since the very beginning and it is the series ive been the most excited to dive into. This is by far my favorite Hades & Persephone retelling. I love the growth, banter and spice between Hades & Persephone. I also love the view on Olympus and the Gods that reside there. The ending had my feeling so many emotions, love, pain, sorrow, just so many all at once. The writing style is beautiful and there's is honestly nothing that I would want changed or different in this series. It's perfect. I can't wait until im able to buy the physical copies so that I can proudly display them on my shelf!

[Lise · Rating 2 out of 5]

This series started off so grippingly fast paced, but it ended with overexaggerated repetition (we get it, you have the most epic love, ever) and didn't really have a satisfying conclusion. I hated how everything fell to fate and they never put their own spin on taking back control of their lives. It really bothered me how the author kept trying to draw parallels from Greek mythology to Christianity when the Jewish God would have predated Zeus and company. Disappointing final installment.

I received a complimentary copy of this book.

[Guylande Jeudy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I truly enjoyed reading the final installment of Persephone and Hades’ story. While it didn’t quite capture me the way the previous books did, it was still a satisfying conclusion to their journey. I’m especially excited to see what’s in store for their daughters, I can’t wait to follow their paths and see how their stories unfold!

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

[W · Rating 4 out of 5]

I absolutely love this version of Hades and Persephone. And it really makes me want to go back to Ancient Greece (or talk to a scholar who knows) and find out what they think about our modern day love of Hades and how he’s usually seen in a good light compared to Zeus and Poseidon. I wonder how they conceptualized these myths, how varying the interpretations were. I would be interested in Ares and Poseidon’s books when they come out.

[Jenni · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hades and Persephone concluding chapter the story has taken us on a rollar coaster ride of emotions highs and lows, the struggles they both faced, and what they had to over come, it felt like an endless possibility. Well written engaging, emotions, dark themes, desires, and I can't wait for the next series!

[Jamie Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. I felt like it wrapped up this series really well. I have really loved seeing Hades and Persephone evolve throughout this series. I’m really excited to see where the author goes from here with the characters that we have met along the way in this journey. Highly recommend checking this series and this author out!

[Edith-Marie Buonacore · Rating 5 out of 5]

As the story of Hades and Persephone comes to a close I am saddened. Persephone story is one of love, hardship, growth, angst and pain. It is written so well that you feel every emotion that Persephone goes through. You feel the love between her and Hades. The horror she faces in the presence of the Gods. And the most horrific truth to ever be faced by one Soul alone.

[Alyssa Korsmo · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m never a fan of when the two main characters are apart and since that happened in this book it wasn’t my favorite. I know why it happened but I also feel like this book felt a little all over the place. The plot made sense in most ways but something just felt off as I read it. Still a good book but just not quite as good as I’d hoped.

[Jessica Ladd · Rating 5 out of 5]

Incredibly Underrated Series

4.5/5 due to minor spelling issues/typos that the publisher should have corrected. Otherwise, Im not sure why this series isn't getting the recognition it deserves. Highly recommend for anyone who enjoys historical fiction or mythology.

[Tricia · Rating 3 out of 5]

This series was fun, albeit average. I felt like the things that make fantasy great were missing — the vibrant world-building, a momentum-filled plot, and side characters that bring extra magic. It was alright, but didn't stand out to me.

[Chelsey Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love💗

Wonderful just Wonderful cant wait for the next book🥰 This series is worth the read, I've even bought h t the paper backs

[Bridget · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a satisfying ending! This one even made me cry a little bit, which is not something that happens often while I'm reading.

I'm looking forward to Ares and Poseidon's stories so much.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

🥺😭😭

It’s so beautiful and heart wrenching and all I’d hoped for and more! I can’t wait to see more from this world even if Hades and Persephone’s story is largely over. I’m nothing short of obsessed!

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such an incredible journey with Hades and Persephone. I was not expecting to cry as much as I did in this book. It was so heartbreaking to read how their story proceeds after the last book, and how it finally ends. I am very excited to read Ares and Poseidon’s books next! But this was the perfect ending to Hades and Persephone’s love! The epilogue made me want to know what happens next though!!! I hope those books come out soon because I need more of this world! Thank you to the author for this arc book for my honest review.

[Meagen Jongewaard · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this conclusion to Hades and Persephone's story! Getting to know more of Persephone's background made it easier to understand more of their story. I wish there had been more of Hades with this book; however, this didn't take away from the emotion, heartbreak, and the battle that was set forth. I'm looking forward to seeing these characters (hopefully) appear in the future books and what more is in store for this world!