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Where Darkness Bloomed
War rages above. Death stirs below. And the Fates are far from silent.
As the Trojan War shatters kingdoms, a goddess and a queen stand on the cusp of legend.
Persephone, goddess of spring, was meant to remain untouched by shadow. Hidden by her mother in an attempt to outwit the Fates, she has been raised far from Olympus and the world of men. But when a chance encounter with Hades, the formidable ruler of the Underworld, binds their paths, she is thrust into a realm of power, peril, and desire. In his kingdom of shadowed beauty, she must decide if she is captive... or queen.
Above, Helen of Troy faces her own reckoning, shackled to the besieged city of Troy. Stolen by Paris, she walks a dangerous line between survival and defiance. From within Troy’s bloodstained walls, she becomes ensnared in a treacherous dance with Achilles—the infamous warlord whose wrath threatens to destroy all.
As the Underworld swells with the dead, Persephone and Helen must to follow the threads spun for them by the Fates. Or else sever them, and weave something new.
Two women. One war. And a destiny poised between ruin and rebirth.
Readers of Madeline Miller, Jennifer Saint, and Natalie Haynes will be spellbound by this lush, lyrical tale of gods, mortals, and fate.
<
Content This novel contains mature themes and emotionally intense scenes—including war, violence, and sensuality—told in a style reflective of ancient myth. Reader discretion advised.
As the Trojan War shatters kingdoms, a goddess and a queen stand on the cusp of legend.
Persephone, goddess of spring, was meant to remain untouched by shadow. Hidden by her mother in an attempt to outwit the Fates, she has been raised far from Olympus and the world of men. But when a chance encounter with Hades, the formidable ruler of the Underworld, binds their paths, she is thrust into a realm of power, peril, and desire. In his kingdom of shadowed beauty, she must decide if she is captive... or queen.
Above, Helen of Troy faces her own reckoning, shackled to the besieged city of Troy. Stolen by Paris, she walks a dangerous line between survival and defiance. From within Troy’s bloodstained walls, she becomes ensnared in a treacherous dance with Achilles—the infamous warlord whose wrath threatens to destroy all.
As the Underworld swells with the dead, Persephone and Helen must to follow the threads spun for them by the Fates. Or else sever them, and weave something new.
Two women. One war. And a destiny poised between ruin and rebirth.
Readers of Madeline Miller, Jennifer Saint, and Natalie Haynes will be spellbound by this lush, lyrical tale of gods, mortals, and fate.
<
Content This novel contains mature themes and emotionally intense scenes—including war, violence, and sensuality—told in a style reflective of ancient myth. Reader discretion advised.
382 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 16, 2025
101 people are currently reading
1659 people want to read
About the author
K.D. Stark
1 book39 followersK. D. Stark is an author based in the southern United States where she lives with her husband, three little boys, and too many chickens. After spending years in a career that didn’t quite fit, she turned to writing—a lifelong love. In writing, she discovered a passion for storytelling and crafting new worlds and vibrant characters, as well as an outlet for her lifelong obsession with Greek mythology.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 206 reviews
August 26, 2025
How about a slow burn romance that was 1000s of years in the making? This beautifully lush and immersive narrative woven by K.D. Stark takes us back to the Greek Pantheon when gods ruled all.
I am absolutely heartbroken to be in the minority that didn’t connect with the story. Billed as a Greek mythology romantasy, this book has all the ingredients to make this an absolute banger of a story. K.D. Stark writes beautifully. I wanted to love this, I felt like I should love this, so why wasn’t I diving in with both feet?
The chapters are short and punchy. So short, that they almost always end on a cliffhanger. Each chapter is a different POV, so just as we start to get invested, we’re onto the next character. Ultimately, I think this is what made it so hard for me to connect with the characters. I wanted to walk around in their world, get lost IN the story. Just as I started to, it would end and move on, leaving me feeling like I’d just read a vignette rather than a chapter.
Which unfortunately lead to another hurdle I had, the pacing. Since we didn’t get to dive deep into any of the characters, the action felt harried and rushed and the romance was either super slow burn, or super fast insta-love/insta-connection. I couldn’t get invested in what was happening.
And I’ll admit, the issue may be completely and totally with me. The last few books I’d had as ARCs were absolute powerhouses when it came to action and romance. I might have not been in the right frame of mind for this one. Just because I didn’t love it, doesn’t mean you won’t! Where Darkness Bloomed is available for purchase on September 16.
Many, many thanks to K.D. Stark and Nerd Fam for the gifted eARC. #wheredarknessbloomed #thenerdfam
I am absolutely heartbroken to be in the minority that didn’t connect with the story. Billed as a Greek mythology romantasy, this book has all the ingredients to make this an absolute banger of a story. K.D. Stark writes beautifully. I wanted to love this, I felt like I should love this, so why wasn’t I diving in with both feet?
The chapters are short and punchy. So short, that they almost always end on a cliffhanger. Each chapter is a different POV, so just as we start to get invested, we’re onto the next character. Ultimately, I think this is what made it so hard for me to connect with the characters. I wanted to walk around in their world, get lost IN the story. Just as I started to, it would end and move on, leaving me feeling like I’d just read a vignette rather than a chapter.
Which unfortunately lead to another hurdle I had, the pacing. Since we didn’t get to dive deep into any of the characters, the action felt harried and rushed and the romance was either super slow burn, or super fast insta-love/insta-connection. I couldn’t get invested in what was happening.
And I’ll admit, the issue may be completely and totally with me. The last few books I’d had as ARCs were absolute powerhouses when it came to action and romance. I might have not been in the right frame of mind for this one. Just because I didn’t love it, doesn’t mean you won’t! Where Darkness Bloomed is available for purchase on September 16.
Many, many thanks to K.D. Stark and Nerd Fam for the gifted eARC. #wheredarknessbloomed #thenerdfam
September 18, 2025
What a Greek Mythology STUNNER✨
The writing is fabulous!
If you are a lover of Greek mythology, Hades & Persephone, The Trojan war you will LOVE this ♥️
The writing is fabulous!
If you are a lover of Greek mythology, Hades & Persephone, The Trojan war you will LOVE this ♥️
September 11, 2025
If you take every ounce of literary talent and weave it with a tapestry meant to ensnare the reader into rapture, despair, and an ache that is not easily doused with words alone... it's 'Where Darkness Bloomed.' I have not been this taken by a story in so long, and much like the cosmos, this story can endure any ebb or flow for a reader. Its stories can transcend simply reading to read something - it can be felt, devoured and dissected. As a reader that loves to break out her tabs and highlighters and find every inch of beauty written in the words, this is a perfect story to find monumental moments behind every scene. Simply put - its genius incarnate.
Would I recommend? - With every breath I breathe, I will recommend this one to any reader. Literally ANY. You don't even have to love Greek mythology to adore the intricate beauty of this one.
✧⋄⋆⋅⋆⋄✧⋄⋆⋅⋆⋄✧
I cried so many times during this book - tears of beauty, tears of utter devastation, tears of understanding, and finally, tears of pride for the characters within.
The women in this are fierce in not only their strength to endure, or strength to bend wills, but in their strength of soft understanding and compassion. It's truly insane to see how easily woven the timelines are - of what happens in the Underworld, in Troy, on Olympus. How the Fates created the tapestry, but the women are the ones to weave it into its final creation.
And the men - THE MEN. I'm always going to be a ladies first kind of girl, finding their brilliance to be my favorite part of every story. But the way Stark wrote Hades, Achilles, Hephaestus - I was jaw dropped on the floor for them. For their iron wills, for their fallen hearts that longed to be seen for more than what they were crafted for, and mostly for the way they stand beside the women. Not overshadowing; strengthening. Standing by their side or holding them up from behind with a warmth of a lovers' touch.
It's more than yearning between the men and women of this story, it's a deep ache to rewrite the history of scars and wind them into love-kissed new beginnings.
MORE THOUGHTS
★ The war and ravage of Troy is, of course, a well-known part of Greek mythology and history, and Stark spares no words to describe its brutal savagery. Both in the start and the tumultuous ending. Both in Troy and when judgement comes to call in the Underworld. It's felt as deeply as the wounds left in battle scars, how much the world changed for a taste of pride and power.
★ I'm ruined to ever not loves Hades/Persephone after this one. As this is my first recount of their love story in a book, I can honestly say I'm locked in for them until the very end of time.
★ If Stark writes it, I'm going to read it. It's the law of the land now and I am merely its servant.
I could go on forever saying all the pretty things I love about this book, but I digress - add it to your TBR immediately and find out for yourself when it releases in September!
Thank you so so much to K. D. Stark for trusting me to receive an eARC of this one. Truly, I'm overwhelmed with how much this one moved me and will be forever grateful for your trust in allowing me to review its splendor!
Would I recommend? - With every breath I breathe, I will recommend this one to any reader. Literally ANY. You don't even have to love Greek mythology to adore the intricate beauty of this one.
✧⋄⋆⋅⋆⋄✧⋄⋆⋅⋆⋄✧
I cried so many times during this book - tears of beauty, tears of utter devastation, tears of understanding, and finally, tears of pride for the characters within.
The women in this are fierce in not only their strength to endure, or strength to bend wills, but in their strength of soft understanding and compassion. It's truly insane to see how easily woven the timelines are - of what happens in the Underworld, in Troy, on Olympus. How the Fates created the tapestry, but the women are the ones to weave it into its final creation.
And the men - THE MEN. I'm always going to be a ladies first kind of girl, finding their brilliance to be my favorite part of every story. But the way Stark wrote Hades, Achilles, Hephaestus - I was jaw dropped on the floor for them. For their iron wills, for their fallen hearts that longed to be seen for more than what they were crafted for, and mostly for the way they stand beside the women. Not overshadowing; strengthening. Standing by their side or holding them up from behind with a warmth of a lovers' touch.
It's more than yearning between the men and women of this story, it's a deep ache to rewrite the history of scars and wind them into love-kissed new beginnings.
MORE THOUGHTS
★ The war and ravage of Troy is, of course, a well-known part of Greek mythology and history, and Stark spares no words to describe its brutal savagery. Both in the start and the tumultuous ending. Both in Troy and when judgement comes to call in the Underworld. It's felt as deeply as the wounds left in battle scars, how much the world changed for a taste of pride and power.
★ I'm ruined to ever not loves Hades/Persephone after this one. As this is my first recount of their love story in a book, I can honestly say I'm locked in for them until the very end of time.
★ If Stark writes it, I'm going to read it. It's the law of the land now and I am merely its servant.
I could go on forever saying all the pretty things I love about this book, but I digress - add it to your TBR immediately and find out for yourself when it releases in September!
Thank you so so much to K. D. Stark for trusting me to receive an eARC of this one. Truly, I'm overwhelmed with how much this one moved me and will be forever grateful for your trust in allowing me to review its splendor!
September 9, 2025
As a long time Greek mythology nerd, this book was INCREDIBLE.
It is hard to take a story everyone already knows and turn it into something new and beautiful, but K.D. Stark has done exactly that.
This is the most beautiful retelling of the Trojan war I've ever read; it was so full of yearning and emotion.
I know this book will linger with me for a long time and I will surely be re-reading it in the not so distant future.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
It is hard to take a story everyone already knows and turn it into something new and beautiful, but K.D. Stark has done exactly that.
This is the most beautiful retelling of the Trojan war I've ever read; it was so full of yearning and emotion.
I know this book will linger with me for a long time and I will surely be re-reading it in the not so distant future.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 9, 2025
Good lord, I need time to process this.
This was goddamn brilliant, and I am in awe of KD’s most beautiful and poetic storytelling…
UPDATE!!!!!! <3
Let me just start with saying that this book was phenomenal, incredible and absolutely unforgettable. It gave so much honour and recognition to The Odyssey, The Iliad, and Greek lore, and I honestly don’t even know where to begin because there’s just so much to talk about!! K.D. Stark didn’t just retell mythology, she genuinely breathed new life into it, blending romantasy with ancient stories and creating something so layered, so immersive, and so emotionally powerful.
What I loved most was how KD structured the myths in a way that felt both chronological and interconnected. She didn’t shy away from the raw, messy dynamics between gods e.g., Hephaestus and Hera’s fractured bond, Poseidon’s grudges, the jealousies and pettiness of goddesses sparking the trojan war, and she gave those dynamics personality, emotion, and so much depth.
The Trojan War arc was, simply put, masterful. KD never let us forget that this war began with divine discord (literally with ERIs, the goddess of discord), yet the consequences fell hardest on mortals. From Poseidon’s pettiness to his wrath, from the sea the war begins causing the chain reaction from Helen’s abduction, and at the seas the tale ends with the Greek’s fleet sinking to the bottom of the oceans. The way the gods’ grievances spilled onto the battlefield was so well done. It was a stunning full-circle narrative and it’s all about the gods acting not out of compassion but out of offense or pride.
And yet, KD balanced all of that with compassion through characters like Hades and Persephone. Unlike most gods, they cared. Hades bears the souls of mortals every day, while Persephone has lived among them, watching their joys and losses from birth onward. Her arc was one of my favourites! Transforming from a timid, restricted figure into a compassionate but authoritative commander who actively tried to minimise the war’s devastation. She embodies strength in kindness, and her evolution was so breathtaking.
But honestly my heart belonged to the mortals and demigods. There are two characters in particular - key to the Trojan War - whose shared story of trauma, exploitation, and eventual solidarity absolutely broke me. Their bond was one of vulnerability, friendship, and defiance, choosing to hold each other up so no one else could use them again. Their final chapter concluding their story had me in tears, it was just so achingly beautiful.
As for the romance, while Hades and Persephone were central to the marketing of this book, their love story was just one part of a much wider web of relationships that gave the story so much richness. Their bond was powerful not only because of the affection they shared but also because of how Persephone grew into her role as queen, using her compassion as strength to shoulder responsibility and justice alongside Hades. It is love not just as passion, but as partnership and burden-sharing.
Equally moving was the romance between Hephaestus and Aglaia. Their relationship felt tender and vulnerable, marked by shared insecurities. Hephaestus carries the weight of being scarred and unwanted by his own family, while Aglaia, the goddess of beauty, paradoxically wrestles with her own self-doubts. The way KD mirrored their vulnerabilities against one another was not only heartwarming but also a reminder that even gods who are embodiments of ideals struggle with identity and acceptance. These romances, alongside friendships and alliances forged in war, gave the story a depth, it was love in all its complexity, romantic and otherwise.
Another layer that struck me deeply was KD's portrayal of Dionysius as the god of madness. She built this thread with such precision that when it culminated in Agamemnon’s wife being struck with madness, it felt like a chilling but inevitable full-circle moment. It wasn’t just mythology for the sake of spectacle, it was mythology woven with meaning, cause, and consequence. And this was just one of many occasions KD carefully struck the perfect mythological x fiction with purpose balance.
And then there is Hades and his underworld. I loved the sense of justice mixed with the desire of neutrality KD infused into his character and the very structure of the afterlife. Unlike the world above, in the underworld the influence of gods does not sway the eternal fates of mortals. It is a place where divine grudges, pettiness, and rivalries have no power, and where souls are judged fairly. This felt like such an important contrast, and it gave Hades a dignity and integrity that made him one of the strongest characters in the book.
One of the most remarkable and thought-provoking themes in this book was the portrayal of motherhood. KD captured the raw intensity, the love, and the fierce protectiveness that both mortals and goddesses hold for their children. We see characters who sacrifice themselves, and sometimes sacrifice others, out of nothing more than instinct to protect their children. It is not always rational, and it is not always right, but it is deeply human.
On at least three distinct occasions (Demeter, Thetis and Andromache), KD highlights how these protective instincts, while born out of love, can also blind mothers to what is best for their children. It is a reminder that the strength of motherhood carries both beauty and danger, the unreasonableness that love can sometimes provoke. KD does not romanticise it in a simple way but instead offers it in all its complexity through the tenderness, the fierceness, the mistakes, and the sheer determination. This running thread through the book elevated the story, grounding these grand mythological narratives in something universally relatable and painfully real. It was beautiful, moving, and like I said, unforgettable.
I also have to praise the writing style. The shifting POVs were bold and brilliant, echoing the original mythic tradition of fragmented voices, but KD gave each character such vivid personality that you could tell who’s head we were in within the first three lines. That’s no small feat. It gave the story both an epic scope and a deeply personal touch.
And the research!!! Every mythological detail, from Poseidon’s temple grudge to the goddess of discord’s meddling, the fates foretelling to Hephaestus upbringing, was woven in seamlessly. KD truly honoured the original stories while expanding them with emotional resonance.
Where Darkness Bloomed is not just mythology retold, it is mythology reborn. It is a story of gods and their pettiness, mortals and their resilience, love in its many forms (romantic, platonic, maternal), and the haunting costs of war. It is researched, poetic, immersive, and one of those books that will stay with me for a long time.
The theme of motherhood rendered with such nuance and power, and the characters bonded through trauma sharing peace and understanding that they simply cannot find in anyone else, would have been enough to make this book unforgettable. But paired with the epic sweep of mythology, the emotional arcs of gods and mortals, and the haunting truths of war, it became so much more!
I’m beyond grateful I got to experience this book, and even more grateful I was on K.D. Stark’s street team to share in the journey. Truly, a masterpiece.
This was goddamn brilliant, and I am in awe of KD’s most beautiful and poetic storytelling…
UPDATE!!!!!! <3
Let me just start with saying that this book was phenomenal, incredible and absolutely unforgettable. It gave so much honour and recognition to The Odyssey, The Iliad, and Greek lore, and I honestly don’t even know where to begin because there’s just so much to talk about!! K.D. Stark didn’t just retell mythology, she genuinely breathed new life into it, blending romantasy with ancient stories and creating something so layered, so immersive, and so emotionally powerful.
What I loved most was how KD structured the myths in a way that felt both chronological and interconnected. She didn’t shy away from the raw, messy dynamics between gods e.g., Hephaestus and Hera’s fractured bond, Poseidon’s grudges, the jealousies and pettiness of goddesses sparking the trojan war, and she gave those dynamics personality, emotion, and so much depth.
The Trojan War arc was, simply put, masterful. KD never let us forget that this war began with divine discord (literally with ERIs, the goddess of discord), yet the consequences fell hardest on mortals. From Poseidon’s pettiness to his wrath, from the sea the war begins causing the chain reaction from Helen’s abduction, and at the seas the tale ends with the Greek’s fleet sinking to the bottom of the oceans. The way the gods’ grievances spilled onto the battlefield was so well done. It was a stunning full-circle narrative and it’s all about the gods acting not out of compassion but out of offense or pride.
And yet, KD balanced all of that with compassion through characters like Hades and Persephone. Unlike most gods, they cared. Hades bears the souls of mortals every day, while Persephone has lived among them, watching their joys and losses from birth onward. Her arc was one of my favourites! Transforming from a timid, restricted figure into a compassionate but authoritative commander who actively tried to minimise the war’s devastation. She embodies strength in kindness, and her evolution was so breathtaking.
But honestly my heart belonged to the mortals and demigods. There are two characters in particular - key to the Trojan War - whose shared story of trauma, exploitation, and eventual solidarity absolutely broke me. Their bond was one of vulnerability, friendship, and defiance, choosing to hold each other up so no one else could use them again. Their final chapter concluding their story had me in tears, it was just so achingly beautiful.
As for the romance, while Hades and Persephone were central to the marketing of this book, their love story was just one part of a much wider web of relationships that gave the story so much richness. Their bond was powerful not only because of the affection they shared but also because of how Persephone grew into her role as queen, using her compassion as strength to shoulder responsibility and justice alongside Hades. It is love not just as passion, but as partnership and burden-sharing.
Equally moving was the romance between Hephaestus and Aglaia. Their relationship felt tender and vulnerable, marked by shared insecurities. Hephaestus carries the weight of being scarred and unwanted by his own family, while Aglaia, the goddess of beauty, paradoxically wrestles with her own self-doubts. The way KD mirrored their vulnerabilities against one another was not only heartwarming but also a reminder that even gods who are embodiments of ideals struggle with identity and acceptance. These romances, alongside friendships and alliances forged in war, gave the story a depth, it was love in all its complexity, romantic and otherwise.
Another layer that struck me deeply was KD's portrayal of Dionysius as the god of madness. She built this thread with such precision that when it culminated in Agamemnon’s wife being struck with madness, it felt like a chilling but inevitable full-circle moment. It wasn’t just mythology for the sake of spectacle, it was mythology woven with meaning, cause, and consequence. And this was just one of many occasions KD carefully struck the perfect mythological x fiction with purpose balance.
And then there is Hades and his underworld. I loved the sense of justice mixed with the desire of neutrality KD infused into his character and the very structure of the afterlife. Unlike the world above, in the underworld the influence of gods does not sway the eternal fates of mortals. It is a place where divine grudges, pettiness, and rivalries have no power, and where souls are judged fairly. This felt like such an important contrast, and it gave Hades a dignity and integrity that made him one of the strongest characters in the book.
One of the most remarkable and thought-provoking themes in this book was the portrayal of motherhood. KD captured the raw intensity, the love, and the fierce protectiveness that both mortals and goddesses hold for their children. We see characters who sacrifice themselves, and sometimes sacrifice others, out of nothing more than instinct to protect their children. It is not always rational, and it is not always right, but it is deeply human.
On at least three distinct occasions (Demeter, Thetis and Andromache), KD highlights how these protective instincts, while born out of love, can also blind mothers to what is best for their children. It is a reminder that the strength of motherhood carries both beauty and danger, the unreasonableness that love can sometimes provoke. KD does not romanticise it in a simple way but instead offers it in all its complexity through the tenderness, the fierceness, the mistakes, and the sheer determination. This running thread through the book elevated the story, grounding these grand mythological narratives in something universally relatable and painfully real. It was beautiful, moving, and like I said, unforgettable.
I also have to praise the writing style. The shifting POVs were bold and brilliant, echoing the original mythic tradition of fragmented voices, but KD gave each character such vivid personality that you could tell who’s head we were in within the first three lines. That’s no small feat. It gave the story both an epic scope and a deeply personal touch.
And the research!!! Every mythological detail, from Poseidon’s temple grudge to the goddess of discord’s meddling, the fates foretelling to Hephaestus upbringing, was woven in seamlessly. KD truly honoured the original stories while expanding them with emotional resonance.
Where Darkness Bloomed is not just mythology retold, it is mythology reborn. It is a story of gods and their pettiness, mortals and their resilience, love in its many forms (romantic, platonic, maternal), and the haunting costs of war. It is researched, poetic, immersive, and one of those books that will stay with me for a long time.
The theme of motherhood rendered with such nuance and power, and the characters bonded through trauma sharing peace and understanding that they simply cannot find in anyone else, would have been enough to make this book unforgettable. But paired with the epic sweep of mythology, the emotional arcs of gods and mortals, and the haunting truths of war, it became so much more!
I’m beyond grateful I got to experience this book, and even more grateful I was on K.D. Stark’s street team to share in the journey. Truly, a masterpiece.
August 26, 2025
5 ⭐️ This book was absolutely phenomenal. It was everything you could possibly want out of a Greek Mythology Fantasy Roamance! Thank you so much to K.D. Stark and The Nerd Fam for the opportunity to ARC read this book.
I was blown away by K.D. Starks lyrically bewitching writing style and her ability to take a story that most of us already know and turn it into its own masterpiece. From the world building to the character development, it was all fantastic.
I read a lot of Greek Mythology retelling/ reimaginings and this one was done RIGHT! I was so immersed in the story and captivated by the lush world that was created. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who is looking for their next amazing Greek Mythology Fantasy Romance read!
I'm so excited for the next book and I will be patiently waiting for its release! Well done, K.D. Stark on your masterpiece of a book!
I was blown away by K.D. Starks lyrically bewitching writing style and her ability to take a story that most of us already know and turn it into its own masterpiece. From the world building to the character development, it was all fantastic.
I read a lot of Greek Mythology retelling/ reimaginings and this one was done RIGHT! I was so immersed in the story and captivated by the lush world that was created. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who is looking for their next amazing Greek Mythology Fantasy Romance read!
I'm so excited for the next book and I will be patiently waiting for its release! Well done, K.D. Stark on your masterpiece of a book!
August 21, 2025
✨️ ARC ✨️
It seems I’m in the minority here, but I have to admit - this one just didn’t do it for me. 🫤
Based on the blurb, I expected Persephone and Helen to truly sever fate’s threads and weave something new. I was intrigued by the promise of rebellion against destiny, but instead, the story mostly stayed close to familiar Greek mythology. While there were creative liberties - like blending the timeline of the Trojan War with the Hades and Persephone myth - not much actually diverged from the standard narratives in a meaningful way. Overall, it just felt like reading a beautiful cliffnotes version of the stories with tastefully written spice added in.
To be fair, the writing itself is elegant. Poetic, immersive, and richly descriptive. The writing is undeniably lovely - but somehow, it just didn’t captivate me. I found myself constantly checking my progress, struggling to stay engaged, and unsure why. I love Greek mythology, so I expected to feel more connected to the narrative.
Part of the disconnect, I think, was due to the many POVs. While I understand the intent - to add emotional depth and explore the complexity of the conflict - the frequent shifts left the story feeling scattered. It sometimes felt like the book was trying to do too much at once. That said, the perspectives of Hades, Achilles, and Hephaestus were standouts for me - richly written, full of vulnerability, and layered with depth.
In the end, while the book is a beautiful piece of writing, the execution didn’t land for me. I came hoping for something bold and new, and was left feeling bored.
✨️ My sincerest gratitude to The Nerd Fam and K.D. Stark. Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted eARC. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review. ✨️
It seems I’m in the minority here, but I have to admit - this one just didn’t do it for me. 🫤
Based on the blurb, I expected Persephone and Helen to truly sever fate’s threads and weave something new. I was intrigued by the promise of rebellion against destiny, but instead, the story mostly stayed close to familiar Greek mythology. While there were creative liberties - like blending the timeline of the Trojan War with the Hades and Persephone myth - not much actually diverged from the standard narratives in a meaningful way. Overall, it just felt like reading a beautiful cliffnotes version of the stories with tastefully written spice added in.
To be fair, the writing itself is elegant. Poetic, immersive, and richly descriptive. The writing is undeniably lovely - but somehow, it just didn’t captivate me. I found myself constantly checking my progress, struggling to stay engaged, and unsure why. I love Greek mythology, so I expected to feel more connected to the narrative.
Part of the disconnect, I think, was due to the many POVs. While I understand the intent - to add emotional depth and explore the complexity of the conflict - the frequent shifts left the story feeling scattered. It sometimes felt like the book was trying to do too much at once. That said, the perspectives of Hades, Achilles, and Hephaestus were standouts for me - richly written, full of vulnerability, and layered with depth.
In the end, while the book is a beautiful piece of writing, the execution didn’t land for me. I came hoping for something bold and new, and was left feeling bored.
✨️ My sincerest gratitude to The Nerd Fam and K.D. Stark. Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted eARC. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review. ✨️
August 4, 2025
Where Darkness Bloomed by K.D. Starks
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
This book doesn’t need a long review, because there truly aren’t enough words to capture how beautiful it was.
Elegant. Poetic. Stunning.
The writing was so descriptive, the imagery absolutely impeccable.
There’s very little dialogue, but you still feel everything. Every moment. Every setting. You’re completely immersed.
Greek gods. Bloodthirsty mortals.
Myths, legends, and the pull of fate.
Set around the Trojan War, you see how all sides were affected; Olympians, mortals, and the underworld.
Love and war. Bonds broken and forged.
🏛️ Lovers foretold by the Fates
🏛️ A war born of pride and vengeance
🏛️ Healing through unexpected love
🏛️ Strength found in others
🏛️ Cursed beauty
🏛️ Unyielding grief
🏛️ Dual perspectives: Persephone and Helen, Hades and Achilles
And Hades… I don’t even have the words.
Smooth. Protective. Strong. Supportive.
There’s a reason he’s king of the underworld. Everything he creates feels just and true.
Where Darkness Bloomed is lush, emotional, and spellbinding.
A masterpiece.
Easily a five-star read. Just stunning.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
This book doesn’t need a long review, because there truly aren’t enough words to capture how beautiful it was.
Elegant. Poetic. Stunning.
The writing was so descriptive, the imagery absolutely impeccable.
There’s very little dialogue, but you still feel everything. Every moment. Every setting. You’re completely immersed.
Greek gods. Bloodthirsty mortals.
Myths, legends, and the pull of fate.
Set around the Trojan War, you see how all sides were affected; Olympians, mortals, and the underworld.
Love and war. Bonds broken and forged.
🏛️ Lovers foretold by the Fates
🏛️ A war born of pride and vengeance
🏛️ Healing through unexpected love
🏛️ Strength found in others
🏛️ Cursed beauty
🏛️ Unyielding grief
🏛️ Dual perspectives: Persephone and Helen, Hades and Achilles
And Hades… I don’t even have the words.
Smooth. Protective. Strong. Supportive.
There’s a reason he’s king of the underworld. Everything he creates feels just and true.
Where Darkness Bloomed is lush, emotional, and spellbinding.
A masterpiece.
Easily a five-star read. Just stunning.
October 24, 2025
“𝙄 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙝𝙚𝙧.”
Where Darkness Bloomed by @k.d.starkwrites
4.5⭐️
-Greek mythology retelling
-Hades and Persephone
-Helen of Troy
-Trojan War
-forbidden love
-forced proximity
-multiple couples
WOWWWW! Absolutely wow! As far as Greek retellings go, this is my favorite. It’s beautiful and lyrical writing had me sucked right in. And between the war and the multiple POVs of our couples, there’s enough tension to keep you turning page after page.
“𝙁𝙤𝙧 𝙖𝙨 𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙨 𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙧𝙨 𝙗𝙪𝙧𝙣 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙫𝙚𝙣𝙨, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙛𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙞𝙧 𝙡𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙞𝙨 𝙡𝙤𝙨𝙩, 𝙄 𝙖𝙢 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙨.”
I’ve always loved the story of Helen of Troy and reading this take on it and her connection to Achilles was reinvigorating, despite the heaviness and trauma of what she goes through.
“𝙎𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙖 𝙨𝙥𝙖𝙧𝙠 𝙗𝙤𝙧𝙣 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙜𝙤𝙙𝙨—𝙖 𝙛𝙡𝙖𝙢𝙚 𝙨𝙤 𝙗𝙧𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙞𝙩 𝙝𝙖𝙙 𝙨𝙚𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙡𝙙 𝙤𝙣 𝙛𝙞𝙧𝙚.”
The emotional pull between Hephaestus and Aglaia caught me by surprise when I got to their chapters late at night and I couldn’t set it down.
But what really had me fully invested was our story between Hades and Persephone. Every time Hades speak, I melt. The yearning of that man and his devotion to Persephone outshines another other.
“𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙣𝙚𝙚𝙙𝙣’𝙩 𝙛𝙚𝙖𝙧 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙞𝙧𝙚, 𝙋𝙚𝙧𝙨𝙚𝙥𝙝𝙤𝙣𝙚.” 𝙏𝙚𝙚𝙩𝙝 𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙯𝙚𝙙 𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙣𝙚𝙘𝙠 𝙞𝙣 𝙖 𝙜𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙡𝙚, 𝙬𝙞𝙘𝙠𝙚𝙙 𝙣𝙞𝙥. “𝙉𝙤𝙩 𝙬𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙄 𝙖𝙢 𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚, 𝙤𝙣𝙡𝙮 𝙩𝙤𝙤 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙤 𝙤𝙗𝙡𝙞𝙜𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪.”
“𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙖𝙩𝙚 𝙢𝙮 𝙙𝙞𝙨𝙘𝙞𝙥𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙚.”
“𝙊𝙧 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙖𝙩𝙚 𝙢𝙮 𝙢𝙤𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙮.”
“𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙡𝙚𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙗𝙚 𝙣𝙤 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙛𝙪𝙨𝙞𝙤𝙣, 𝙬𝙞𝙛𝙚.”
Definitely a satisfying read for the Greek mythology lovers! And the little teaser for book 2… 👀
Thanks to K.D. Stark, @thtswhtsheread and @thtswhtshereadpr for the gifted PR box!
Where Darkness Bloomed by @k.d.starkwrites
4.5⭐️
-Greek mythology retelling
-Hades and Persephone
-Helen of Troy
-Trojan War
-forbidden love
-forced proximity
-multiple couples
WOWWWW! Absolutely wow! As far as Greek retellings go, this is my favorite. It’s beautiful and lyrical writing had me sucked right in. And between the war and the multiple POVs of our couples, there’s enough tension to keep you turning page after page.
“𝙁𝙤𝙧 𝙖𝙨 𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙨 𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙧𝙨 𝙗𝙪𝙧𝙣 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙫𝙚𝙣𝙨, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙛𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙞𝙧 𝙡𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙞𝙨 𝙡𝙤𝙨𝙩, 𝙄 𝙖𝙢 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙨.”
I’ve always loved the story of Helen of Troy and reading this take on it and her connection to Achilles was reinvigorating, despite the heaviness and trauma of what she goes through.
“𝙎𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙖 𝙨𝙥𝙖𝙧𝙠 𝙗𝙤𝙧𝙣 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙜𝙤𝙙𝙨—𝙖 𝙛𝙡𝙖𝙢𝙚 𝙨𝙤 𝙗𝙧𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙞𝙩 𝙝𝙖𝙙 𝙨𝙚𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙡𝙙 𝙤𝙣 𝙛𝙞𝙧𝙚.”
The emotional pull between Hephaestus and Aglaia caught me by surprise when I got to their chapters late at night and I couldn’t set it down.
But what really had me fully invested was our story between Hades and Persephone. Every time Hades speak, I melt. The yearning of that man and his devotion to Persephone outshines another other.
“𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙣𝙚𝙚𝙙𝙣’𝙩 𝙛𝙚𝙖𝙧 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙞𝙧𝙚, 𝙋𝙚𝙧𝙨𝙚𝙥𝙝𝙤𝙣𝙚.” 𝙏𝙚𝙚𝙩𝙝 𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙯𝙚𝙙 𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙣𝙚𝙘𝙠 𝙞𝙣 𝙖 𝙜𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙡𝙚, 𝙬𝙞𝙘𝙠𝙚𝙙 𝙣𝙞𝙥. “𝙉𝙤𝙩 𝙬𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙄 𝙖𝙢 𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚, 𝙤𝙣𝙡𝙮 𝙩𝙤𝙤 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙤 𝙤𝙗𝙡𝙞𝙜𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪.”
“𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙖𝙩𝙚 𝙢𝙮 𝙙𝙞𝙨𝙘𝙞𝙥𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙚.”
“𝙊𝙧 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙖𝙩𝙚 𝙢𝙮 𝙢𝙤𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙮.”
“𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙡𝙚𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙗𝙚 𝙣𝙤 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙛𝙪𝙨𝙞𝙤𝙣, 𝙬𝙞𝙛𝙚.”
Definitely a satisfying read for the Greek mythology lovers! And the little teaser for book 2… 👀
Thanks to K.D. Stark, @thtswhtsheread and @thtswhtshereadpr for the gifted PR box!
August 16, 2025
I have always been fascinated by Greek mythology, but I haven’t had the chance to really dive into a full Greek book until now—and this one was absolutely amazing. The way the chapters were divided into different cuts and perspectives made everything flow together so well, almost like pieces of a puzzle falling into place. I loved getting to learn more about Hades and Persephone, the tragic and powerful story of Hephaestus, the epic war of Troy, and Achilles’ role within it all. The introduction to Odysseus’s journey was such a perfect touch, leaving me eager to explore more of his story later on. With every page, I felt like I was being pulled deeper into ancient times, surrounded by gods, battles, and myths that have lasted for centuries. It was captivating, and I truly loved the experience
October 23, 2025
4.5⭐️For lovers of A Song of Achilles, Circe, and Greek mythology as a whole, this book was beautiful, thoughtfully written, complex and creative. And I am SO EXCITED to know there are 3 more books coming!! A Greek mythology inspired series…yes pleasssse.
This book is a journey through two iconic Greek myths, told in a way you’ve never read before. KD brings forward historical details that provide a sense of authenticity, while conveying the depths of these characters’ emotions so beautifully.
Our story begins with two characters: Hades and Persephone. In a parallel timeline, the Trojan war is beginning. We meet Achilles, Helen, Odysseus as they fight a war they didn’t start. The book shows us where these two stories meet, in such a creative way. And throughout, we get to know the gods and goddesses who rule from Olympus and fear the loss of humanity driven by the war.
I was drawn in by the Hades and Persephone story. Its dark, mysterious and possessive layers. But as the story evolved, I found myself invested in an even richer tale.
I was amazed at KD’s beautiful writing that made me feel so many things for the full cast of characters. It was so refreshing to read such a beautiful and compelling Greek mythology retelling. It’s been so long since I’ve read something like this. Thank you so much for the ARC KD Stark & the Nerd Fam.
This book is a journey through two iconic Greek myths, told in a way you’ve never read before. KD brings forward historical details that provide a sense of authenticity, while conveying the depths of these characters’ emotions so beautifully.
Our story begins with two characters: Hades and Persephone. In a parallel timeline, the Trojan war is beginning. We meet Achilles, Helen, Odysseus as they fight a war they didn’t start. The book shows us where these two stories meet, in such a creative way. And throughout, we get to know the gods and goddesses who rule from Olympus and fear the loss of humanity driven by the war.
I was drawn in by the Hades and Persephone story. Its dark, mysterious and possessive layers. But as the story evolved, I found myself invested in an even richer tale.
I was amazed at KD’s beautiful writing that made me feel so many things for the full cast of characters. It was so refreshing to read such a beautiful and compelling Greek mythology retelling. It’s been so long since I’ve read something like this. Thank you so much for the ARC KD Stark & the Nerd Fam.
October 4, 2025
Tropes:
Greek gods
Fate
War
Vengeance
This book was beauty and depth incarnate. Nothing I say in this review will be able to fully capture this book in the way it deserves. But if you read anything in this review, make it this: READ THIS BOOK ASAP OKAY?!?!?
I read this book in 2 sittings. I read this book through MANY MANY warnings from my Apple Watch stating that I had been sitting for too long. I forgot to eat and drink water. It was WORTH IT.
I love a Greek god themed book, but I have not read one that is so eloquently written. And this one is insane.
There’s Greek gods. There’s a man made war started after the kidnapping of a queen, which has dragged the gods and their children into its midst. There’s the goddess of spring that has found herself in the underworld, as queen. There are multiple intertwining storylines. There’s heart breaking loss and pain, beautiful victory and love and friendship. There’s so much depth. Infinity stars.
Persephone is strong willed and I love how Hades wants her to rule WITH him, not under him. He wants her NEXT to him as an equal.
I felt the pain of Achilles. I felt the worry and guilt of Helen. I loved Hephaestus and how he finally found someone to cherish him. Aglaia, love her, she is beauty and softness. Demeter? Nah, she can lose my number.
As I said, this review is literally garbage compared to the actual book. It’s something you have to experience yourself. My chest is heavy, and light at the same time. I cried. I smiled. I…. Loved it.
Greek gods
Fate
War
Vengeance
This book was beauty and depth incarnate. Nothing I say in this review will be able to fully capture this book in the way it deserves. But if you read anything in this review, make it this: READ THIS BOOK ASAP OKAY?!?!?
I read this book in 2 sittings. I read this book through MANY MANY warnings from my Apple Watch stating that I had been sitting for too long. I forgot to eat and drink water. It was WORTH IT.
I love a Greek god themed book, but I have not read one that is so eloquently written. And this one is insane.
There’s Greek gods. There’s a man made war started after the kidnapping of a queen, which has dragged the gods and their children into its midst. There’s the goddess of spring that has found herself in the underworld, as queen. There are multiple intertwining storylines. There’s heart breaking loss and pain, beautiful victory and love and friendship. There’s so much depth. Infinity stars.
Persephone is strong willed and I love how Hades wants her to rule WITH him, not under him. He wants her NEXT to him as an equal.
I felt the pain of Achilles. I felt the worry and guilt of Helen. I loved Hephaestus and how he finally found someone to cherish him. Aglaia, love her, she is beauty and softness. Demeter? Nah, she can lose my number.
As I said, this review is literally garbage compared to the actual book. It’s something you have to experience yourself. My chest is heavy, and light at the same time. I cried. I smiled. I…. Loved it.
September 12, 2025
5 ✨ I love Greek Mytholgy, but it’s a hard genre to find immersive books for. The difficulty is when they “teach” and “tell”. But @k.d.stark NAILED that in combination with “showing and feeling”! Describing this book in 2 words: BEAUTIFULLY POETIC. Not only does she write in extremely lyrical, detailed descriptive elegance-she makes you see the Gods of Olympus as beings with emotions, not just power. She managed to create a fresh take on a legendary saga flawlessly. The intermingling of action and romance, multiple POVs and origin stories were blended PERFECTLY. She tested the boundaries and challenged the traditional portrayal of characters like Paris, Hades, and Helen of Sparta/Troy. I felt the losses, the longing, the love, the desperation and everything in between. I have never highlighted so many gorgeous quotes in my life. I am blown away by her ability to take us through so many timelines to include: Hades marrying Persephone, the Trojan War, Hephaestus and Aglias’ little touched on story, and how the Gods interfered with Fate & the chaos of mortals. My review doesn’t touch the half of the epic journey this took me on.
November 17, 2025
"The poets will call you mad when they sing of this."
"Let them, they will sing of it all the same."
Wow. What an emotional journey.
There were so many beautiful stories, each told in such a way that every character had their own heartbeat, their own space to exist. Their storylines stood strong on their own, yet somehow all of them intertwined, like moving pieces on a chessboard coming together to create one breathtaking, unforgettable whole.
As consuming as so many of these couples were, (and know a lot of girlies were partial to Hades & Persephone) my heart was wholly invested in Helen and Achilles. The tragedy of love and war. The pain, the hopelessness, the weight of it all. The way Helen carried the unbearable burden of grief and acceptance of her circumstance alone in a world ruled by men. Seen not as a woman, not as Helen, not even as a queen, but as a possession. Then Achilles?! we all know his story, we all know the tragedy, but told in this way? I still wasn't prepared.
K.D Stark writes in a way that reaches right into your soul and holds the fragile pieces of your heart in her hands. I forgot how achingly tragic Greek mythology can be, and this book reminded me just how deeply it can make you feel, and how timeless the lessons still are.
Just thinking about everything these characters went through puts me right back in my feels. This was top tier, beautiful,
haunting, and so full of emotion. loved every single second of it. Truly, a story I wish I could experience again for the first time.
I can't wait to see what's next for Odysseus, may the gods have mercy on him. ⚡️
"Let them, they will sing of it all the same."
Wow. What an emotional journey.
There were so many beautiful stories, each told in such a way that every character had their own heartbeat, their own space to exist. Their storylines stood strong on their own, yet somehow all of them intertwined, like moving pieces on a chessboard coming together to create one breathtaking, unforgettable whole.
As consuming as so many of these couples were, (and know a lot of girlies were partial to Hades & Persephone) my heart was wholly invested in Helen and Achilles. The tragedy of love and war. The pain, the hopelessness, the weight of it all. The way Helen carried the unbearable burden of grief and acceptance of her circumstance alone in a world ruled by men. Seen not as a woman, not as Helen, not even as a queen, but as a possession. Then Achilles?! we all know his story, we all know the tragedy, but told in this way? I still wasn't prepared.
K.D Stark writes in a way that reaches right into your soul and holds the fragile pieces of your heart in her hands. I forgot how achingly tragic Greek mythology can be, and this book reminded me just how deeply it can make you feel, and how timeless the lessons still are.
Just thinking about everything these characters went through puts me right back in my feels. This was top tier, beautiful,
haunting, and so full of emotion. loved every single second of it. Truly, a story I wish I could experience again for the first time.
I can't wait to see what's next for Odysseus, may the gods have mercy on him. ⚡️
August 24, 2025
A Poetic retelling of the Greek gods with yearning that will have you craving more!
I can’t describe how beautiful this book was and how well written it is because you really feel every emotion and detail that each of the Greek gods have gone through. It was poetic, immersive, and very imaginable that I felt I was right there with each of the characters throughout the book. You have a mix of war and love where every bond was shattered but then formed again.
I will say my favorite part of this story is how every detail and action came together especially between each characters perspective. I was not confused one bit and I feel like K.D. did well outlining this out.
You face a world where you experience each dual perspectives in this story. The Trojan War, Hades, Achilles, Helen, and Persephone. It was all rich and just a masterpiece all together 🥹😩
And Hades!? Oh my this man.. I enjoyed his character so much! Every line from him was rich and poetic I loved every second of it!
Thank you to K.D. For sending me an eARC ❤️ I’m so grateful to have found her on social media and can’t wait to read more from her 🫶🏼
I can’t describe how beautiful this book was and how well written it is because you really feel every emotion and detail that each of the Greek gods have gone through. It was poetic, immersive, and very imaginable that I felt I was right there with each of the characters throughout the book. You have a mix of war and love where every bond was shattered but then formed again.
I will say my favorite part of this story is how every detail and action came together especially between each characters perspective. I was not confused one bit and I feel like K.D. did well outlining this out.
You face a world where you experience each dual perspectives in this story. The Trojan War, Hades, Achilles, Helen, and Persephone. It was all rich and just a masterpiece all together 🥹😩
And Hades!? Oh my this man.. I enjoyed his character so much! Every line from him was rich and poetic I loved every second of it!
Thank you to K.D. For sending me an eARC ❤️ I’m so grateful to have found her on social media and can’t wait to read more from her 🫶🏼
September 25, 2025
I have always loved Greek mythology, both for the stories themselves and the lessons and themes they represent. The stories of Greek mythology have been re-imagined, retold, and modernized forever, but sometimes my favorite versions are the ones that don’t stray too far from the original stories.
K.D. Stark’s writing in Where Darkness Bloomed is absolutely beautiful. I loved every moment wrapped up in this book, and don’t be fooled, this isn’t just a Hades and Persephone story, my favorite thing about this book was that K.D. Stark made the stories of Hades and Persephone, Achilles, Patroclus, Helen and Troy, Hephaestus and Aglaia, and all the gods and goddesses of Mount Olympus feel tangible and real.
They were interwoven and connected in a way that we don’t often think about them, sometimes the popular Greek myth stories feel like individual occurrences, but Where Darkness Bloomed threaded them together flawlessly, beautifully, and in a way that felt real without straying from the originals.
K.D. Stark’s writing in Where Darkness Bloomed is absolutely beautiful. I loved every moment wrapped up in this book, and don’t be fooled, this isn’t just a Hades and Persephone story, my favorite thing about this book was that K.D. Stark made the stories of Hades and Persephone, Achilles, Patroclus, Helen and Troy, Hephaestus and Aglaia, and all the gods and goddesses of Mount Olympus feel tangible and real.
They were interwoven and connected in a way that we don’t often think about them, sometimes the popular Greek myth stories feel like individual occurrences, but Where Darkness Bloomed threaded them together flawlessly, beautifully, and in a way that felt real without straying from the originals.
September 14, 2025
Where Darkness Bloomed is an emotionally rich somewhat reimagining of Greek mythology that breathes life into the stories of gods and mortals. The author did a creative twist-like merging The Trojan War with the Hades and Persephone myth that I really enjoyed. The prose itself is beautiful: lyrical, immersive and deeply descriptive.
There are many different POV's that aimed to add emotional depth. The Trojan War arc, in particular, shines with its full-circle narrative, while characters like Hades and Persephone offer compassion and moral depth.
If you're a fan of Greek mythology then this story will be right up your alley.
*Many thanks to the author and The Nerd Fam for this gifted arc.*
There are many different POV's that aimed to add emotional depth. The Trojan War arc, in particular, shines with its full-circle narrative, while characters like Hades and Persephone offer compassion and moral depth.
If you're a fan of Greek mythology then this story will be right up your alley.
*Many thanks to the author and The Nerd Fam for this gifted arc.*
September 1, 2025
Characters: 4.75⭐️
Setting: 5.00⭐️
Plot: 4.00⭐️
Themes: 4.50⭐️
Personal enjoyment: 5.00⭐️
Emotional Impact: 4.25⭐️
Overall rating: 4.75⭐️
Where Darkness Bloomed is a retelling of both Greek stories of Helen of Troy and Persephone marrying Hades to become Queen of the Underworld. The story focuses on the threads of Fate which intertwine both women, but some slight changes to the mythology surrounding both of them.
K.D. Stark's writing has an ease and beauty to it. She intricately weaves both stories of Helen and Persephone together in a lyrical tale. I had always believed Helen as a woman who left her husband for Paris out of love, but learned she was kidnapped and cursed for her beauty. We all know the stories of these Greek myths, but I just loved this. Overall, the story was fast paced and kept me engaged through the end with a potential for more?
Would I recommend this book? Yes.
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Setting: 5.00⭐️
Plot: 4.00⭐️
Themes: 4.50⭐️
Personal enjoyment: 5.00⭐️
Emotional Impact: 4.25⭐️
Overall rating: 4.75⭐️
Where Darkness Bloomed is a retelling of both Greek stories of Helen of Troy and Persephone marrying Hades to become Queen of the Underworld. The story focuses on the threads of Fate which intertwine both women, but some slight changes to the mythology surrounding both of them.
K.D. Stark's writing has an ease and beauty to it. She intricately weaves both stories of Helen and Persephone together in a lyrical tale. I had always believed Helen as a woman who left her husband for Paris out of love, but learned she was kidnapped and cursed for her beauty. We all know the stories of these Greek myths, but I just loved this. Overall, the story was fast paced and kept me engaged through the end with a potential for more?
Would I recommend this book? Yes.
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 7, 2025
4.5/5 Stars
Where Darkness Bloomed releases September 16!
If you love Greek Mythology and are a fan of retellings, I highly recommend picking this up! This is an Iliad retelling along with a Hades Persephone retelling. At first I wasn't sure where the author was going with the multiple storylines, but it all came together in the end. I love how she tied these two popular myths together while adding character and plot depth. I especially loved the Hades/Persephone storyline and have so many Hades quotes highlighted. I simp for that God, especially in this book. The next book is going to be an Odyssey retelling and I'm super excited to read it!
Where Darkness Bloomed releases September 16!
If you love Greek Mythology and are a fan of retellings, I highly recommend picking this up! This is an Iliad retelling along with a Hades Persephone retelling. At first I wasn't sure where the author was going with the multiple storylines, but it all came together in the end. I love how she tied these two popular myths together while adding character and plot depth. I especially loved the Hades/Persephone storyline and have so many Hades quotes highlighted. I simp for that God, especially in this book. The next book is going to be an Odyssey retelling and I'm super excited to read it!
September 28, 2025
As a Persephone and Helen of Troy retelling this was delightful. I really enjoyed that so many stories of the gods were layered in, not just the big names, but even lesser known stories like the romance between Hephaestus and Aglaia. Their relationship was written with such tenderness and vulnerability that it really stood out to me.
What I appreciated the most was that this retelling didn’t feel like a complete reinvention. Instead it stayed close to the original while embellishing and deepening the tales.
The writing is strong and atmospheric, with worldbuilding that feels rich and well done. Sometimes the pacing lingers, but overall, it’s a beautifully crafted start to a series that mythology lovers will definitely appreciate.
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted eARC. #wheredarknessbloomed #thenerdfam
What I appreciated the most was that this retelling didn’t feel like a complete reinvention. Instead it stayed close to the original while embellishing and deepening the tales.
The writing is strong and atmospheric, with worldbuilding that feels rich and well done. Sometimes the pacing lingers, but overall, it’s a beautifully crafted start to a series that mythology lovers will definitely appreciate.
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted eARC. #wheredarknessbloomed #thenerdfam
August 4, 2025
I would like to thank KD Stark for giving me the opportunity to be on her street team for her debut novel. If you are looking for a mythology novel that will keep you hooked from the beginning until the very end then this is the book for you. While it is told from several pov's I never once found myself confused which was a relief. The plot and the characters were all very engaging.
To some up some of the plot lines we are introduced Hades and Persephone and how their relationship came to be. We are also introduced to Helen of Troy who is kidnapped from her homeland and must put her trust into Achilles in order to find her way home again. As mentioned before the plot line is very engaging.
I am super thankful that I was given the opportunity to read this book. I had no idea what it would be like and in the long run I really enjoyed it.
To some up some of the plot lines we are introduced Hades and Persephone and how their relationship came to be. We are also introduced to Helen of Troy who is kidnapped from her homeland and must put her trust into Achilles in order to find her way home again. As mentioned before the plot line is very engaging.
I am super thankful that I was given the opportunity to read this book. I had no idea what it would be like and in the long run I really enjoyed it.
July 25, 2025
I can't give this book enough stars, nothing short of spellbinding. From the very beginning, I was pulled into a world where gods bleed and mortals defy fate. The writing was BEAUTIFUL. The poetry, the myth, the longing...perfection. I have read plenty of Hades x Persephone retellings, and this may very well be my favorite version of Hades yet. The multiple POVs worked beautifully with the plot on both sides of the war, both with the gods and the mortals. Emotional and beautiful.
"For as long as the stars burn in the heavens," she vowed, "and long after their light is lost, I am yours."
-Forbidden Love
-Fate
-He falls first
-Greek Mythology
-War
-Emotional Damage
Safe to say that the beauty of the cover matches the story inside.
"For as long as the stars burn in the heavens," she vowed, "and long after their light is lost, I am yours."
-Forbidden Love
-Fate
-He falls first
-Greek Mythology
-War
-Emotional Damage
Safe to say that the beauty of the cover matches the story inside.
July 25, 2025
Multiple point of view Greek Mythology retelling? Absolutely.
I loved this book and it’s safe to say it didn’t disappoint. I adored the Hades and Persephone retelling. I loved that there is a story showing Hephaestus and Aglaea. I loved that we saw different point of views on the Trojan war, following Achilles and Odysseus then to Helen of Troy, sorry Helen of Sparta.
I’ll spare you the time I loved it all. We looked at the Trojan war through the eyes of the Gods and through the warriors. We saw how it affected everyone in the mortal world to Olympia to the Underworld.
Safe to say I am a fan and I am addicted. Please keep more of these coming my way so I can continue to devour them!
I loved this book and it’s safe to say it didn’t disappoint. I adored the Hades and Persephone retelling. I loved that there is a story showing Hephaestus and Aglaea. I loved that we saw different point of views on the Trojan war, following Achilles and Odysseus then to Helen of Troy, sorry Helen of Sparta.
I’ll spare you the time I loved it all. We looked at the Trojan war through the eyes of the Gods and through the warriors. We saw how it affected everyone in the mortal world to Olympia to the Underworld.
Safe to say I am a fan and I am addicted. Please keep more of these coming my way so I can continue to devour them!
September 20, 2025
retelling done right
I loved this Greek mythology retelling! Focusing on Hades and Persephone, Helen of Troy and Achilles, and their struggles. It was a beautiful take. And the writing was just chefs kiss. Poetic. Yearning.
These are not the same gods we grew up reading about. Hades gives majorrr DADDY vibes. major don’t touch my goddess vibes. I love his dedication and his belief in Persephone.
And Achilles, you sweet doomed soul. What a man. All in all, a great retelling!
I loved this Greek mythology retelling! Focusing on Hades and Persephone, Helen of Troy and Achilles, and their struggles. It was a beautiful take. And the writing was just chefs kiss. Poetic. Yearning.
These are not the same gods we grew up reading about. Hades gives majorrr DADDY vibes. major don’t touch my goddess vibes. I love his dedication and his belief in Persephone.
And Achilles, you sweet doomed soul. What a man. All in all, a great retelling!
July 26, 2025
This beautifully written book has such a perfect balance of action and romance. Where Darkness Bloomed had me staying up too late to keep flipping page after page until the very end.
November 11, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️.5
“The Fates do not choose gently.”
War rages in Troy—a conflict begun and inflamed by the greed and pride of men, both Greek and Trojan. The gods must not choose sides, as hard as that is, as much as it divides them. But it is women who feel the hard hand of war most keenly: a woman stolen from her home as a prize, a mother desperate to protect her son, a goddess whose compassion knows no bounds, a goddess who understands that there is more to life than gripping on to external beauty and not letting go. It is their hope, their actions, their determination that brushes up against the hard surface of fate. And fate has a way of weaving tightly together the stories of women and men, and gods and mortals alike. Trust that fate is not always what you’d expect. 🏛️
Y’all, this book is one of the most beautiful stories I’ve ever read. The love and passion, grief and rage, despair and resilience, and darkness and light that unfolds in Where Darkness Bloomed is, in my opinion, unmatched by anything else. No matter how much you’ve read of Greek mythology, this incredible book has new insights into famous characters and unique explorations of some you might not be that familiar with. Following the stories of Persephone, Helen of Sparta, Aglaia, Thetis, Hades, Achilles, Patroclus, Odysseus, and Hephaestus, along with many other mortals and gods, you find that the story of the Trojan War is not so simple, and that that even small decisions and actions can have immense consequences or benefits. This poetic story reminds you not to lose hope even when things seem unbearable, that compassion is not weakness, that fate will lead you to where you’ve always meant to be, and to keep reaching out your hand, for someone might need it more than you know. I highly, highly recommend adding Where Darkness Bloomed to your TBR—it is a timeless story that is truly unforgettable. 🖤
🌶️🌶️.5
“The Fates do not choose gently.”
War rages in Troy—a conflict begun and inflamed by the greed and pride of men, both Greek and Trojan. The gods must not choose sides, as hard as that is, as much as it divides them. But it is women who feel the hard hand of war most keenly: a woman stolen from her home as a prize, a mother desperate to protect her son, a goddess whose compassion knows no bounds, a goddess who understands that there is more to life than gripping on to external beauty and not letting go. It is their hope, their actions, their determination that brushes up against the hard surface of fate. And fate has a way of weaving tightly together the stories of women and men, and gods and mortals alike. Trust that fate is not always what you’d expect. 🏛️
Y’all, this book is one of the most beautiful stories I’ve ever read. The love and passion, grief and rage, despair and resilience, and darkness and light that unfolds in Where Darkness Bloomed is, in my opinion, unmatched by anything else. No matter how much you’ve read of Greek mythology, this incredible book has new insights into famous characters and unique explorations of some you might not be that familiar with. Following the stories of Persephone, Helen of Sparta, Aglaia, Thetis, Hades, Achilles, Patroclus, Odysseus, and Hephaestus, along with many other mortals and gods, you find that the story of the Trojan War is not so simple, and that that even small decisions and actions can have immense consequences or benefits. This poetic story reminds you not to lose hope even when things seem unbearable, that compassion is not weakness, that fate will lead you to where you’ve always meant to be, and to keep reaching out your hand, for someone might need it more than you know. I highly, highly recommend adding Where Darkness Bloomed to your TBR—it is a timeless story that is truly unforgettable. 🖤
September 5, 2025
I am absolutely in love with this book. Hades and Persephone have always been my all-time couple goals, and K.D. Stark gave me a retelling that felt dark, sensual, and achingly beautiful. Their relationship in this story isn’t just about love it’s about balance, sovereignty, and finding strength in the shadows. Every interaction between them had me swooning and gasping, because it perfectly captured the push-and-pull I adore in their myth.
But what makes this book even more special is the dual narrative. Alongside Persephone’s descent into power and love, we follow Helen of Troy no longer just a face that launched a thousand ships, but a woman caught between survival and defiance. Her voice was fierce, layered, and heartbreaking, and it added so much depth to the larger tapestry of fate, war, and destiny.
The writing is lyrical and immersive, pulling me straight into the smoke of Troy and the shadows of the Underworld. The tension between fate and free will made me ache in the best way, and by the end, I didn’t want to leave this world.
This is a must read for anyone who loves myth retellings, especially those who, like me, can’t get enough of Hades and Persephone. They’re perfection, and this book reminded me exactly why they’ll forever be my favorite.
Five stars, no hesitation. 🖤🌸🔥
Thank you to TheNerdFam for this amazing ARC read , all thoughts and ratings of this book are my own .
But what makes this book even more special is the dual narrative. Alongside Persephone’s descent into power and love, we follow Helen of Troy no longer just a face that launched a thousand ships, but a woman caught between survival and defiance. Her voice was fierce, layered, and heartbreaking, and it added so much depth to the larger tapestry of fate, war, and destiny.
The writing is lyrical and immersive, pulling me straight into the smoke of Troy and the shadows of the Underworld. The tension between fate and free will made me ache in the best way, and by the end, I didn’t want to leave this world.
This is a must read for anyone who loves myth retellings, especially those who, like me, can’t get enough of Hades and Persephone. They’re perfection, and this book reminded me exactly why they’ll forever be my favorite.
Five stars, no hesitation. 🖤🌸🔥
Thank you to TheNerdFam for this amazing ARC read , all thoughts and ratings of this book are my own .
September 12, 2025
Thank you to the NerdFam and Author for the chance to read this ARC.
This was the first Greek Mythology retelling I’ve read and it did not at all disappoint. I’ve always been fascinated with the stories and lore from the Gods & Goddesses of Olympus, so to read something so rich with story was so captivating. I also found it masterful how easily the author was able to narrate POVs so seamlessly without switching in to first person. This writing style was so clever and engaging to read.
Hades & Persephone’s story is one I’m not familiar, or have read about before, so this introduction to their romance was so beautiful. I appreciate that it also explored so much of their relationship towards the other Gods and their come to reverence as the Power Couple of the Underworld.
The side stories of Helen of Troy & Achilles + Hephaestus & Aglaia’s were also so beautifully woven to add depth the story overall while holding their own in plot and direction.
An instant recommendation for me to anyone wanting to explore and enjoy Greek Mythology.
This was the first Greek Mythology retelling I’ve read and it did not at all disappoint. I’ve always been fascinated with the stories and lore from the Gods & Goddesses of Olympus, so to read something so rich with story was so captivating. I also found it masterful how easily the author was able to narrate POVs so seamlessly without switching in to first person. This writing style was so clever and engaging to read.
Hades & Persephone’s story is one I’m not familiar, or have read about before, so this introduction to their romance was so beautiful. I appreciate that it also explored so much of their relationship towards the other Gods and their come to reverence as the Power Couple of the Underworld.
The side stories of Helen of Troy & Achilles + Hephaestus & Aglaia’s were also so beautifully woven to add depth the story overall while holding their own in plot and direction.
An instant recommendation for me to anyone wanting to explore and enjoy Greek Mythology.
November 11, 2025
I am such a SUCKER for a Hades and Persephone retelling idc if it makes me basic. Oh you want a slow burn? How about a slow burn 1000s of years in the making? I mean literally…
“I have waited for you for thousands of years.”
Now aside from Hades and Persephone, we also see other phenomenal retellings of the stories of Helen of Troy and the Trojan War, and glimpses into so many of the characters of Olympus. Two women stolen away by fate and war, and the men who yearn so deeply for them, what more could you possibly ask for?
Okay circling back.. because I am literally obsessed with Hades and Persephone, let’s just talk about the fact that he built her a throne to match his, and then KNEALT IN FRONT OF HER??? I’m sorry I am so down bad for this man.
“You needn’t fear desire, Persephone. Not when I am here, only too willing to oblige you.”
“I have waited for you for thousands of years.”
Now aside from Hades and Persephone, we also see other phenomenal retellings of the stories of Helen of Troy and the Trojan War, and glimpses into so many of the characters of Olympus. Two women stolen away by fate and war, and the men who yearn so deeply for them, what more could you possibly ask for?
Okay circling back.. because I am literally obsessed with Hades and Persephone, let’s just talk about the fact that he built her a throne to match his, and then KNEALT IN FRONT OF HER??? I’m sorry I am so down bad for this man.
“You needn’t fear desire, Persephone. Not when I am here, only too willing to oblige you.”
August 27, 2025
If this is also your introduction to K.D., I’m sure you’ll thoroughly enjoy it! This Greek mythology-inspired romantic fantasy was incredibly written! I think K.D. Stark did an amazing job of bringing the characters to life, making you fall in love with them and their journey throughout the book. I found the plot easy to follow along and scenes detailed beautifully, making it easy for me to visualize, leaving me constantly wanting to read more despite my daily duties. The history between the characters was elaborated and referenced back to ensure you’re not lost throughout the story while also not bombarding you with too much information at once.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story and it will definitely have a spot on my physical bookshelf once released. I’m glad that this is my introduction to author K.D. Stark, and I’m excited to see how the next book turns out. I’ll definitely be rereading this one soon!
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted eARC!! #thenerdfam
Overall, I really enjoyed this story and it will definitely have a spot on my physical bookshelf once released. I’m glad that this is my introduction to author K.D. Stark, and I’m excited to see how the next book turns out. I’ll definitely be rereading this one soon!
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted eARC!! #thenerdfam
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