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The Catacomb King
Do not cross the border. Do not eat their fruit. And do not let them touch you.
Persephone has one duty: Protect her dying mother, no matter the cost. Even if that means risking her life stealing medicinal herbs from the underworld — a wild, unknowable land teeming with vicious spider-monsters.
Until she’s dragged to the depths by Hades, the underworld’s dark, brooding prince.
Hades is no spider-prince. He looks perfectly human, and perfectly handsome, not that that will stop Persephone fighting tooth and nail to escape. But Hades has his own reasons for abducting Persephone, and he will do anything to keep her.
And as Persephone discovers Hades's buried secrets — and as her loathing for him yields to a forbidden attraction — she uncovers an evil that threatens to destroy not only the underworld, but her own village.
If Persephone escapes, she will be dooming both of their worlds. But if she doesn’t, she risks her mother’s life.
Make no mistake: There’s nothing she won’t do to leave.
But there’s nothing he won’t do to make her stay.
The Catacomb King is the first book in the Rise of Persephone duology, a romantic fantasy series. Featuring slow-burn enemies-to-lovers, imaginative worldbuilding, and lots of spicy banter, this loose Hades and Persephone retelling is perfect for fans of hot, plot-heavy, character-driven romantasy like Servant of Earth, Quicksilver, and A Court of Thorns and Roses.
Persephone has one duty: Protect her dying mother, no matter the cost. Even if that means risking her life stealing medicinal herbs from the underworld — a wild, unknowable land teeming with vicious spider-monsters.
Until she’s dragged to the depths by Hades, the underworld’s dark, brooding prince.
Hades is no spider-prince. He looks perfectly human, and perfectly handsome, not that that will stop Persephone fighting tooth and nail to escape. But Hades has his own reasons for abducting Persephone, and he will do anything to keep her.
And as Persephone discovers Hades's buried secrets — and as her loathing for him yields to a forbidden attraction — she uncovers an evil that threatens to destroy not only the underworld, but her own village.
If Persephone escapes, she will be dooming both of their worlds. But if she doesn’t, she risks her mother’s life.
Make no mistake: There’s nothing she won’t do to leave.
But there’s nothing he won’t do to make her stay.
The Catacomb King is the first book in the Rise of Persephone duology, a romantic fantasy series. Featuring slow-burn enemies-to-lovers, imaginative worldbuilding, and lots of spicy banter, this loose Hades and Persephone retelling is perfect for fans of hot, plot-heavy, character-driven romantasy like Servant of Earth, Quicksilver, and A Court of Thorns and Roses.
318 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 15, 2025
5 people are currently reading
84 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews
September 20, 2025
This is a Hades and Persephone retelling as you’ve never imagined! The world building is beautiful, the descriptions of the godlings really confused me at first as this isn’t the classic entirety of the Greek myth.. but it all pulled together at the end! With beautiful ties to the story we’ve all been told before.
This book was fast paced and came to a cliffhanger that should be illegal!
I love how Persephone is a sarcastic, and witty human. She has suffered immensely, but how she goes from fearing the Godlings, to understanding them, and caring for them, to helping them, is a beautiful transition.
There is spice, and thank god there is when Hades looks as he does 🤣 I didn’t always understand his hot and cold demeanour towards Persephone at first, but it all becomes clear at the end of the book.
So grab a few pomegranate seeds and join them in the underworld! I can’t wait to meet more of the gods in book 2!
This book was fast paced and came to a cliffhanger that should be illegal!
I love how Persephone is a sarcastic, and witty human. She has suffered immensely, but how she goes from fearing the Godlings, to understanding them, and caring for them, to helping them, is a beautiful transition.
There is spice, and thank god there is when Hades looks as he does 🤣 I didn’t always understand his hot and cold demeanour towards Persephone at first, but it all becomes clear at the end of the book.
So grab a few pomegranate seeds and join them in the underworld! I can’t wait to meet more of the gods in book 2!
October 14, 2025
4.5🌟, 1.5 🌶
Holy moly, I loved this book! Persephone and Hades.... Such a different take! I love how this was set as differently as most Hades/Persephone tellings. Persephone being so abrasive and so like the chaos chaosgötten was fantastic! One of my favorite parts. Having Hades have a heart and care for someone without question was refreshing. Calif and Josie are mere background characters until Calix becomes a massive douchecanoe. Really enjoyed this book and can't wait for book 2!
Holy moly, I loved this book! Persephone and Hades.... Such a different take! I love how this was set as differently as most Hades/Persephone tellings. Persephone being so abrasive and so like the chaos chaosgötten was fantastic! One of my favorite parts. Having Hades have a heart and care for someone without question was refreshing. Calif and Josie are mere background characters until Calix becomes a massive douchecanoe. Really enjoyed this book and can't wait for book 2!
October 20, 2025
A very different type of Hades and Persephone retelling. I really enjoyed reading this one.
The world building is FANTASTIC. Beware though, if your terrified of spiders this may not be the book for you. It’s definitely heavy on spider-like characters. The idea of the Catacombs? Loved it!
I was genuinely impressed and invested in the outcome of this book.
At times it did feel a little rushed, or i was slightly confused, but it usually didnt last long before it explained or the author made sense of my confusion.
If you’re looking for something a little creepy (looking at you spiders), with some romance, and a whole lot of determination, look no further.
The world building is FANTASTIC. Beware though, if your terrified of spiders this may not be the book for you. It’s definitely heavy on spider-like characters. The idea of the Catacombs? Loved it!
I was genuinely impressed and invested in the outcome of this book.
At times it did feel a little rushed, or i was slightly confused, but it usually didnt last long before it explained or the author made sense of my confusion.
If you’re looking for something a little creepy (looking at you spiders), with some romance, and a whole lot of determination, look no further.
October 3, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶
🔥🔥🔥
The Catacomb King is a unique retelling of the Persephone and Hades myth, and as someone who is always a sucker for this trope, I was excited to dive in.
Every 25 years, a woman is captured and taken to the underworld. But now, 25 years and 11 months have passed, and no one has been taken… until Persephone.
We meet Persephone as she cares for her sick mother, constantly risking herself to bring back medicine from the world above to ease her mother’s suffering. Her village is also struggling through a drought, and water is scarce. She devises a plan to help save the town, but no one, not even her best friend (whom she’s had a lifelong crush on), thinks it’s worth helping.
Then, on the day she goes to gather more herbs, Persephone is stolen, just like the women before her, and now faces the same terrifying fate.
I really enjoyed this book, and the plot kept me hooked. I wanted to uncover more about the world above, the underworld, the politics (because seriously, wtf is happening?), and the direction of the story. That curiosity was a driving force throughout the book.
Persephone had many likable moments, but she did get a bit frustrating at times. Mostly, this was due to her dialogue, which sometimes didn’t feel as thought-out or dynamic as I wanted. There’s a lot to her character, but I found myself wishing for more depth to make her truly relatable or realistic.
Hades, on the other hand, is a mix of broody and golden retriever vibes. He’s the prince of the underworld, but at just 26, there’s no massive age gap (very refreshing), and his character definitely feels age-appropriate. I liked him a little more than Persephone, though he did have moments where he felt like he had the spine of a noodle.
The side characters were a highlight for me! I absolutely loved Elke and Josie, Persephone’s wingwomen. They provide support, humor, and perspective, and while Persephone doesn’t fully realize it until the end, they’re definitely the MVPs of the story.
This is a fast-paced read, which makes it easy to get through in one sitting, but I do wish there had been more worldbuilding and a slightly slower pace. There were parts of the world I wanted to explore more, and I felt like I was missing some depth from the main characters to fully connect with them.
Overall, if you’re into Persephone x Hades retellings, enjoy fast-paced reads, and want a story with a unique take on the world above and the underworld, The Catacomb King is worth checking out.
⟣Tropes⟢
✅ Touch her and 💀 vibes
✅ 🩶 Morally Grey MMC 🩶
✅ Betrayal
✅ Single POV (first person)
✅ Captor/Captive
✅ Enemies-to-Lovers
✅ No OW/OM drama
✅ FMC not Virgin? (it didn't say she is or isn't)
✅ Found Family
✅ He falls first
✅ Gods
✅ 🔥 Slow Burn 🔥
✅ One Room
✅ MINE vibes
✅ Cliff
***Thank you Cordelia Casse for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.***
🌶🌶
🔥🔥🔥
The Catacomb King is a unique retelling of the Persephone and Hades myth, and as someone who is always a sucker for this trope, I was excited to dive in.
Every 25 years, a woman is captured and taken to the underworld. But now, 25 years and 11 months have passed, and no one has been taken… until Persephone.
We meet Persephone as she cares for her sick mother, constantly risking herself to bring back medicine from the world above to ease her mother’s suffering. Her village is also struggling through a drought, and water is scarce. She devises a plan to help save the town, but no one, not even her best friend (whom she’s had a lifelong crush on), thinks it’s worth helping.
Then, on the day she goes to gather more herbs, Persephone is stolen, just like the women before her, and now faces the same terrifying fate.
I really enjoyed this book, and the plot kept me hooked. I wanted to uncover more about the world above, the underworld, the politics (because seriously, wtf is happening?), and the direction of the story. That curiosity was a driving force throughout the book.
Persephone had many likable moments, but she did get a bit frustrating at times. Mostly, this was due to her dialogue, which sometimes didn’t feel as thought-out or dynamic as I wanted. There’s a lot to her character, but I found myself wishing for more depth to make her truly relatable or realistic.
Hades, on the other hand, is a mix of broody and golden retriever vibes. He’s the prince of the underworld, but at just 26, there’s no massive age gap (very refreshing), and his character definitely feels age-appropriate. I liked him a little more than Persephone, though he did have moments where he felt like he had the spine of a noodle.
The side characters were a highlight for me! I absolutely loved Elke and Josie, Persephone’s wingwomen. They provide support, humor, and perspective, and while Persephone doesn’t fully realize it until the end, they’re definitely the MVPs of the story.
This is a fast-paced read, which makes it easy to get through in one sitting, but I do wish there had been more worldbuilding and a slightly slower pace. There were parts of the world I wanted to explore more, and I felt like I was missing some depth from the main characters to fully connect with them.
Overall, if you’re into Persephone x Hades retellings, enjoy fast-paced reads, and want a story with a unique take on the world above and the underworld, The Catacomb King is worth checking out.
⟣Tropes⟢
✅ Touch her and 💀 vibes
✅ 🩶 Morally Grey MMC 🩶
✅ Betrayal
✅ Single POV (first person)
✅ Captor/Captive
✅ Enemies-to-Lovers
✅ No OW/OM drama
✅ FMC not Virgin? (it didn't say she is or isn't)
✅ Found Family
✅ He falls first
✅ Gods
✅ 🔥 Slow Burn 🔥
✅ One Room
✅ MINE vibes
✅ Cliff
***Thank you Cordelia Casse for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.***
October 11, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the E-ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This was a 3-star read for me. I usually love a good Hades and Persephone retelling, but this one just didn’t quite sit right. The world-building felt a little disjointed, and the mythology didn’t line up in a way that made sense to me.
In this version, Hades isn’t the King of the Underworld, he’s actually the son of the King of the underworld, and there is a God named Chaos. There is no reference to the Olympians or the Titans, and I think the "God" in question predates both entirely but I'm a little rusty with my Greek mythology. Chaos, who’s usually seen as the primordial void or entity that existed before the earth, is the god of the underworld. Chaos is depicted as a spider/human hybrid, and that choice sets up a chain of half-human, half-spider demigods who are the offspring of Chaos and his human wife. Every 25 years, Chaos demands a female sacrifice from the mortal land but the last one was missed, and now they’re in year 26.
Our main character, Persephone, lives with her mother, who’s dying of a mysterious illness. Their world is in a drought, and Persephone works as a maid to make ends meet. Her mother isn’t Demeter (at least from what we know as the reader, maybe that’s being saved for later books). When Persephone sneaks into the Underworld which, interestingly, is described more like a borderland county than the usual river-crossing style, that’s when the story begins/kicks off.
My favorite part of this book was Persephone herself. She has the mind of an engineer, which was such a refreshing twist. Personally working in a field where female engineers are often underrepresented, I loved seeing a female main character who was intelligent, logical, and proactive - not a damsel in distress, but someone who used her skills to solve real problems.
Ultimately, though, I was left confused by the mythology and felt there were too many plot holes for the story to fully click. I think a prologue or more background explanation could’ve helped set expectations that this retelling doesn’t follow traditional Greek mythology.
It’s a quick read with a smart FMC and an interesting concept, but it needed more clarity and structure for me to really fall in love with it.
This was a 3-star read for me. I usually love a good Hades and Persephone retelling, but this one just didn’t quite sit right. The world-building felt a little disjointed, and the mythology didn’t line up in a way that made sense to me.
In this version, Hades isn’t the King of the Underworld, he’s actually the son of the King of the underworld, and there is a God named Chaos. There is no reference to the Olympians or the Titans, and I think the "God" in question predates both entirely but I'm a little rusty with my Greek mythology. Chaos, who’s usually seen as the primordial void or entity that existed before the earth, is the god of the underworld. Chaos is depicted as a spider/human hybrid, and that choice sets up a chain of half-human, half-spider demigods who are the offspring of Chaos and his human wife. Every 25 years, Chaos demands a female sacrifice from the mortal land but the last one was missed, and now they’re in year 26.
Our main character, Persephone, lives with her mother, who’s dying of a mysterious illness. Their world is in a drought, and Persephone works as a maid to make ends meet. Her mother isn’t Demeter (at least from what we know as the reader, maybe that’s being saved for later books). When Persephone sneaks into the Underworld which, interestingly, is described more like a borderland county than the usual river-crossing style, that’s when the story begins/kicks off.
My favorite part of this book was Persephone herself. She has the mind of an engineer, which was such a refreshing twist. Personally working in a field where female engineers are often underrepresented, I loved seeing a female main character who was intelligent, logical, and proactive - not a damsel in distress, but someone who used her skills to solve real problems.
Ultimately, though, I was left confused by the mythology and felt there were too many plot holes for the story to fully click. I think a prologue or more background explanation could’ve helped set expectations that this retelling doesn’t follow traditional Greek mythology.
It’s a quick read with a smart FMC and an interesting concept, but it needed more clarity and structure for me to really fall in love with it.
September 15, 2025
Listen, if it's a Hades and Persephone retelling, I'm reading it. I don't need to read a synopsis, I don't need to read reviews, I'm reading it, no questions asked. This book hit everything I wanted in a retelling, I just wanted Hades to have more page time. Also, FYI, if you've got arachnaphobia or don't love cursing, this book is not for you. There are a lot of spider-like creatures, and some variation of the word fuck is used over 200 times, which is a lot considering the page count.
Persephone is kidnapped from her village by Hades and is given 3 days to bring water to the Underworld and help save his people from the drought. Persephone realizes that she is happier in the Underworld than she was in her village and has nothing left waiting for her there. Nothing groundbreaking plot-wise, but the inhabitants of the Underworld and the King's storyline were new. Persephone is a very strong FMC with a filthy mouth and Hades basically has love at first sight. Persephone earns the respect of everyone almost immediately eith her cursing and rage, and Hades just trails after her with his puppy eyes.
My only complaint with this book is that Hades is barely in it. The plot is so focused on Persephone that Hades is really only used for plot advancement or Persephone's character development, not as an independent character. I think having a dual POV would've helped build some tension, or at least have Hades getting caught with lingering looks. There was definitely some tension in the romance, but it was all physical with no real emotional bonding. The culmination of their relationship felt more like giving in to physical desires instead of feeling any kind of emotional pull.
The ending is a small cliffhanger, but not bad enough to make me mad. There is a conclusion with a setup for the next book, but the conflict is at a decent stopping point to where it doesn't feel unfinished.
Thank you to NetGalley, Victory Editing, and Cordelia Casse for the free eARC.
Persephone is kidnapped from her village by Hades and is given 3 days to bring water to the Underworld and help save his people from the drought. Persephone realizes that she is happier in the Underworld than she was in her village and has nothing left waiting for her there. Nothing groundbreaking plot-wise, but the inhabitants of the Underworld and the King's storyline were new. Persephone is a very strong FMC with a filthy mouth and Hades basically has love at first sight. Persephone earns the respect of everyone almost immediately eith her cursing and rage, and Hades just trails after her with his puppy eyes.
My only complaint with this book is that Hades is barely in it. The plot is so focused on Persephone that Hades is really only used for plot advancement or Persephone's character development, not as an independent character. I think having a dual POV would've helped build some tension, or at least have Hades getting caught with lingering looks. There was definitely some tension in the romance, but it was all physical with no real emotional bonding. The culmination of their relationship felt more like giving in to physical desires instead of feeling any kind of emotional pull.
The ending is a small cliffhanger, but not bad enough to make me mad. There is a conclusion with a setup for the next book, but the conflict is at a decent stopping point to where it doesn't feel unfinished.
Thank you to NetGalley, Victory Editing, and Cordelia Casse for the free eARC.
September 22, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“I stared at the sky. I was never going to see it again.”
The Catacomb King is a fresh, compelling take on the Hades and Persephone myth. As a longtime Greek mythology fan, the premise hooked me immediately—but the story itself pulled me in even deeper.
We follow Persephone, a young woman caring for her ailing mother in a drought-stricken town. Every 25 years, godlings from the underworld emerge to steal a maiden—but this year, it’s been 26. Enter Hades: arrogant, brooding, infuriatingly handsome… and Persephone’s kidnapper. What follows is a tale of monsters, gods, sacrifice, and impossible choices.
I loved how unique this retelling felt compared to others in the genre. Persephone is strong-willed and kind, a heroine who refuses to break. Hades is darkly arrogant but layered with perseverance and loyalty to his people. Their banter, tension, and slow-burn chemistry had me hooked—equal parts snarky and swoon-worthy.
The world-building is vivid and eerie, with shifting caverns, terrifying godling creatures, and a still lake where spider-spun cocoons hang. And that ending? A mountain-sized cliffhanger that left me desperate for book two.
If you love sharp banter, mythological retellings, and immersive fantasy worlds, you won’t want to miss this one.
Thank you to the author cordelia casse for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
“I stared at the sky. I was never going to see it again.”
The Catacomb King is a fresh, compelling take on the Hades and Persephone myth. As a longtime Greek mythology fan, the premise hooked me immediately—but the story itself pulled me in even deeper.
We follow Persephone, a young woman caring for her ailing mother in a drought-stricken town. Every 25 years, godlings from the underworld emerge to steal a maiden—but this year, it’s been 26. Enter Hades: arrogant, brooding, infuriatingly handsome… and Persephone’s kidnapper. What follows is a tale of monsters, gods, sacrifice, and impossible choices.
I loved how unique this retelling felt compared to others in the genre. Persephone is strong-willed and kind, a heroine who refuses to break. Hades is darkly arrogant but layered with perseverance and loyalty to his people. Their banter, tension, and slow-burn chemistry had me hooked—equal parts snarky and swoon-worthy.
The world-building is vivid and eerie, with shifting caverns, terrifying godling creatures, and a still lake where spider-spun cocoons hang. And that ending? A mountain-sized cliffhanger that left me desperate for book two.
If you love sharp banter, mythological retellings, and immersive fantasy worlds, you won’t want to miss this one.
Thank you to the author cordelia casse for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 30, 2025
Thank you to Cordelia Casse & her team for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review!
I ATE THIS BOOK UP. It’s my first hades x Persephone retelling, and I couldn’t put it down. I absolutely loved the banter between Hades & Persephone. Even though we have the boy next door first love in Calix, the spice, tension, and wit that brews between our FMC and MMC is undeniable. The spice was nice 🌶️🌶️🌶️.
I loved the idea of the underworld, with its moving tunnel network, and all the chaos-godlings we meet (which makes it different than the normal Greek mythology retelling, but it worked in this world, especially bc it does get explained in the end why they are the way they are). Elke was such a good companion to the story, I hope we get more of her in the future books!
The Monarch storyline was super unique, in what happened to the sacrifices that were taken, and how Persephone was different. I love that she wanted to HELP the godlings, even after “escaping” and coming back. I wonder what’s going to happen to Calix now that the big city is waiting for his promise regarding the underworld. I also loved how Persephone realized the fairy tale books were actually depicting truth, and now remembering prior fairy tales regarding gods and goddesses, we shall see how our Mutte (iykyk) and Hades move forward!
I can’t wait for book 2!
I ATE THIS BOOK UP. It’s my first hades x Persephone retelling, and I couldn’t put it down. I absolutely loved the banter between Hades & Persephone. Even though we have the boy next door first love in Calix, the spice, tension, and wit that brews between our FMC and MMC is undeniable. The spice was nice 🌶️🌶️🌶️.
I loved the idea of the underworld, with its moving tunnel network, and all the chaos-godlings we meet (which makes it different than the normal Greek mythology retelling, but it worked in this world, especially bc it does get explained in the end why they are the way they are). Elke was such a good companion to the story, I hope we get more of her in the future books!
The Monarch storyline was super unique, in what happened to the sacrifices that were taken, and how Persephone was different. I love that she wanted to HELP the godlings, even after “escaping” and coming back. I wonder what’s going to happen to Calix now that the big city is waiting for his promise regarding the underworld. I also loved how Persephone realized the fairy tale books were actually depicting truth, and now remembering prior fairy tales regarding gods and goddesses, we shall see how our Mutte (iykyk) and Hades move forward!
I can’t wait for book 2!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 15, 2025
This was the most unique depiction of Hades and Persephone that I've ever read. There is no traditional pantheon, and the underworld was completely its own here.
**That does mean there's no cerberus so far :(
The tension isn't traditional either. The sacrifices are costly, and the outcome isn't what you expect.
This was a story that took twists and turns, much like the beloved catacombs themselves. I enjoyed the characters. I felt their pain and their hope.
Sometimes I definitely didn't understand the choices that they made, and I wish the communication was stronger.
If you hate spiders - maybe not the book for you.
However, I definitely can't wait for book two!
**That does mean there's no cerberus so far :(
The tension isn't traditional either. The sacrifices are costly, and the outcome isn't what you expect.
This was a story that took twists and turns, much like the beloved catacombs themselves. I enjoyed the characters. I felt their pain and their hope.
Sometimes I definitely didn't understand the choices that they made, and I wish the communication was stronger.
If you hate spiders - maybe not the book for you.
However, I definitely can't wait for book two!
September 27, 2025
I absolutely devoured this book! I couldn't put it down, I adored this version of Hades and Persephone. This book is well written and the plot grabs you. A very very slow burn romance that had me waiting on baited breath for the next scene, wanting more.
Persephone is so strong in this, she's been through a lot in her young life but you can tell it's really shaped her as a person and she's so REAL! That's what made me really connect with this book, she's so human, so everyday and believable.
I definitely give this book a 5 star rating, the spice... mmmm absolutely delicious 3 chili peppers for sure. I can't wait for this book to actually be published, I'll be grabbing a copy just to put on my shelf as a trophy since it was my first ever ARC.
This review is brought to you thanks to NetGalley for letting me get this title early to review.
Persephone is so strong in this, she's been through a lot in her young life but you can tell it's really shaped her as a person and she's so REAL! That's what made me really connect with this book, she's so human, so everyday and believable.
I definitely give this book a 5 star rating, the spice... mmmm absolutely delicious 3 chili peppers for sure. I can't wait for this book to actually be published, I'll be grabbing a copy just to put on my shelf as a trophy since it was my first ever ARC.
This review is brought to you thanks to NetGalley for letting me get this title early to review.
October 10, 2025
Unfortunately not my cup of tea.
The underworld with creatures and Hades & Persephone in lust story. Quick read that was quite interesting at first but unfortunately became quite over the top. In addition, the book ended unexpectedly in the middle of everything on a cliffhanger without any solutions.
It felt like some parts, especially the excessive sex scene with insanely swearing, were written by a completely different person than the rest of the book.
Thank you to Victory Editing and NetGalley for the early review copy!
The underworld with creatures and Hades & Persephone in lust story. Quick read that was quite interesting at first but unfortunately became quite over the top. In addition, the book ended unexpectedly in the middle of everything on a cliffhanger without any solutions.
It felt like some parts, especially the excessive sex scene with insanely swearing, were written by a completely different person than the rest of the book.
Thank you to Victory Editing and NetGalley for the early review copy!
October 7, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC. This book was definitely not your traditional retelling. Not what I was expecting for sure.
This was…okay. It had some elements of it that I really liked. It was a unique plot, the characters were strong. It was a quick read. I thought there could have been a little more. More detail, more character development. I mean the whole thing takes place over a span of less than a week and in that time she goes from being kidnapped to calling the godlings her people and staying? I think there was a missed opportunity for more depth.
Overall, an interesting read.
This was…okay. It had some elements of it that I really liked. It was a unique plot, the characters were strong. It was a quick read. I thought there could have been a little more. More detail, more character development. I mean the whole thing takes place over a span of less than a week and in that time she goes from being kidnapped to calling the godlings her people and staying? I think there was a missed opportunity for more depth.
Overall, an interesting read.
September 19, 2025
I wanted to start out by saying thank you to the author, for allowing me the opportunity to have a ARC of this book.
Any story that is related to Persephone & Hades I am going to read. I absolutely love anything related to Greek mythology.
I thought this book had a nice fresh spin on their story. Persephone is a total badass and I freaking LOVED Hades charter. It does end on a small cliffhanger but, nothing tooooo bad. Can’t wait for book 2!
Definitely recommend!
Overall it was a good read! 4/5⭐️
The spice was spicing 3/5🌶️
Any story that is related to Persephone & Hades I am going to read. I absolutely love anything related to Greek mythology.
I thought this book had a nice fresh spin on their story. Persephone is a total badass and I freaking LOVED Hades charter. It does end on a small cliffhanger but, nothing tooooo bad. Can’t wait for book 2!
Definitely recommend!
Overall it was a good read! 4/5⭐️
The spice was spicing 3/5🌶️
September 29, 2025
Thank you Cordelia Casse for sending me an advance reader copy in exchange for my unbiased review! If there’s one thing I love, it’s a Persephone and Hades retelling, and this one definitely did not disappoint me!
Persephone spends her days as a housekeeper and caretaker to her sick mother. Every 25 years, a sacrifice is taken to the Underworld, but it is now the 26th year, and no sacrifice has been taken… Now her town has been hit by a devastating drought, and not only is Persephone’s town feeling the effects, but the nearby Underworld is, too. When Persephone makes one of her regular trips over the border to gather some medicinal flowers for her mother, Hades seizes the opportunity to kidnap her… but not for the reasons we came to expect.
This book came in strong with the incredible world building and storytelling. The way Persephone is written is so sassy and funny, I was cracking up from her commentary! Not only is she written with an amazing sense of humor, she is smart as a whip and strong-willed. This Persephone does not take anyone’s shit and she is definitely going to let you know that. Hades is so broody and also not taking anyone’s shit… except for maybe Persephone’s 😂 There is so much more to him than meets the eye and I absolutely loved the way he was written in this book.
The banter in this book is absolutely hilarious, and the tension between Persephone and Hades is unreal! I couldn’t wait for them to get to it, iykyk 😂 And when they did… 😮💨 I was so obsessed with the plot and the story. I loved meeting the chaosgötten and getting to know their stories and personalities. Elke was probably one of my favorite characters in this book, there was something about her that just had me hooked!
It’s safe for me to say after reading this book, I am a HUGE fan of Cordelia Casse, and I can’t wait to see what she writes next! I 100% recommend this book and have already told all my friends about it 😂 The ending was definitely a cliffhanger, but I still feel so fulfilled after finishing this, and I cannot wait for the next book to come out!
Persephone spends her days as a housekeeper and caretaker to her sick mother. Every 25 years, a sacrifice is taken to the Underworld, but it is now the 26th year, and no sacrifice has been taken… Now her town has been hit by a devastating drought, and not only is Persephone’s town feeling the effects, but the nearby Underworld is, too. When Persephone makes one of her regular trips over the border to gather some medicinal flowers for her mother, Hades seizes the opportunity to kidnap her… but not for the reasons we came to expect.
This book came in strong with the incredible world building and storytelling. The way Persephone is written is so sassy and funny, I was cracking up from her commentary! Not only is she written with an amazing sense of humor, she is smart as a whip and strong-willed. This Persephone does not take anyone’s shit and she is definitely going to let you know that. Hades is so broody and also not taking anyone’s shit… except for maybe Persephone’s 😂 There is so much more to him than meets the eye and I absolutely loved the way he was written in this book.
The banter in this book is absolutely hilarious, and the tension between Persephone and Hades is unreal! I couldn’t wait for them to get to it, iykyk 😂 And when they did… 😮💨 I was so obsessed with the plot and the story. I loved meeting the chaosgötten and getting to know their stories and personalities. Elke was probably one of my favorite characters in this book, there was something about her that just had me hooked!
It’s safe for me to say after reading this book, I am a HUGE fan of Cordelia Casse, and I can’t wait to see what she writes next! I 100% recommend this book and have already told all my friends about it 😂 The ending was definitely a cliffhanger, but I still feel so fulfilled after finishing this, and I cannot wait for the next book to come out!
October 10, 2025
The Dyslexic Reviewer - Spoil Free Reviews
Stars: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Author: @cordeliacassebooks
POV: Single 1st person
Gene: Romantasy, Monster romance kinda
Triggers: Open door screen, war, grief and lost of parent
Read Time: 7 hours
Expected Publishing Date:10/15/2025
What I loved about this book:
❤️ World Building - the world building was well done, describing what it is like being the closest people living near the underworld during a drought and how even the well off people were struggling. But the best part of the world building was learning how the underworld operated and worked, it was really unique and refreshing to read about.
❤️ The Characters - I LOVED this version of Persephone, I loved her outlook on life and really enjoyed her inner monologue. I loved her hidden strength and I can appreciate her delusional side as well. Hades was just adorable with his quiet yearning. The side characters also became important to me which I always love in a good plot, because nothing gets done without the people supporting the MCs.
❤️ The Story - I had a lot of emotions reading this book, and I know it’s a good story if it makes me have emotions about it. There are some sad moments but there is also joy and there is friendships and even love, and just between the two MCs. There are some unanswered questions at the end of the people, different ways the characters can go as they evolve, and I’m excited to see which ways they lean in the next book!
❤️🔥Overall: This was a really enjoyable book to read and I’m glad I took the time to read it.
🕷️facts based on Eike - What is not to love about spiders? They are amazing little creature that can build mesmerizing webs, perform elaborate dances, and even fly long distances using their silk as a sail. And they can do all these and more being just few centimeters long, well at least most of them. Spiders are also amazingly diverse with more than 50,000 known species and many more to be discovered. They are all around us and we can learn a lot about studying them." - Dimitar Dimitrov (I 💗 spiders)
I got this ARC book for free for my honest opinion, you know the drill 😀
Stars: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Author: @cordeliacassebooks
POV: Single 1st person
Gene: Romantasy, Monster romance kinda
Triggers: Open door screen, war, grief and lost of parent
Read Time: 7 hours
Expected Publishing Date:10/15/2025
What I loved about this book:
❤️ World Building - the world building was well done, describing what it is like being the closest people living near the underworld during a drought and how even the well off people were struggling. But the best part of the world building was learning how the underworld operated and worked, it was really unique and refreshing to read about.
❤️ The Characters - I LOVED this version of Persephone, I loved her outlook on life and really enjoyed her inner monologue. I loved her hidden strength and I can appreciate her delusional side as well. Hades was just adorable with his quiet yearning. The side characters also became important to me which I always love in a good plot, because nothing gets done without the people supporting the MCs.
❤️ The Story - I had a lot of emotions reading this book, and I know it’s a good story if it makes me have emotions about it. There are some sad moments but there is also joy and there is friendships and even love, and just between the two MCs. There are some unanswered questions at the end of the people, different ways the characters can go as they evolve, and I’m excited to see which ways they lean in the next book!
❤️🔥Overall: This was a really enjoyable book to read and I’m glad I took the time to read it.
🕷️facts based on Eike - What is not to love about spiders? They are amazing little creature that can build mesmerizing webs, perform elaborate dances, and even fly long distances using their silk as a sail. And they can do all these and more being just few centimeters long, well at least most of them. Spiders are also amazingly diverse with more than 50,000 known species and many more to be discovered. They are all around us and we can learn a lot about studying them." - Dimitar Dimitrov (I 💗 spiders)
I got this ARC book for free for my honest opinion, you know the drill 😀
October 9, 2025
Here, you have a very interesting Hades and Persephone retelling. As someone who loves Greek mythology, and Hades and Persephone in general, I was excited! Except, it’s really not like the Greek Mythology. Which I was expecting, but thoroughly surprised in this completely different, creative retelling.
Every 25 years, a woman is kidnapped and taken to The Underworld. Which, like our myth, is a completely different world underground. These women never come back, presumably tortured and eaten. Except it’s been 25 years and 11 months.
Everyone’s on their toes, waiting for the kidnapping to happen. Enter Persephone, a young woman, the kidnapping the last thing on her mind. During the worst drought ever, Persephone is focusing on her dying mother - seeking medicine and the tiniest bit of water she can collect for her. She barely crosses The Underworld border to contain these things, thinking “nah, I’m not pretty enough to get kidnapped.” (Girl—)
Enter Hades, who of course kidnaps Persephone. (Who woulda thought-) The prince of The Underworld, Hades is worried about the predicament The Underworld is in. A drought as well. His people are thirsty and dying, his father is nowhere to be seen - so he takes matters into his own hands. Kidnap and sacrificed their girl to appease their god to end the drought.
Persephone is ya girl. She’s fierce and sassy when she’s in Hades presence, determined to escape and head back to her mother.
Our two main characters go through a few challenges together, a few tough spots, and of course fall in love. Everything changes at home while she’s gone, and she ends up wanting to stay with Hades. (Of course—)
The ending of the book, to me, was really surprising - and ends on a slight cliffhanger. It honestly leaves you with questions and wanting more. What’s going to happen next? And that leaves me really wanting book 2.
I give this book 4 stars. There are some parts of the book I found boring- mostly the beginning, and just meh. But it does pick up and get really interesting! I do recommend a read!
Every 25 years, a woman is kidnapped and taken to The Underworld. Which, like our myth, is a completely different world underground. These women never come back, presumably tortured and eaten. Except it’s been 25 years and 11 months.
Everyone’s on their toes, waiting for the kidnapping to happen. Enter Persephone, a young woman, the kidnapping the last thing on her mind. During the worst drought ever, Persephone is focusing on her dying mother - seeking medicine and the tiniest bit of water she can collect for her. She barely crosses The Underworld border to contain these things, thinking “nah, I’m not pretty enough to get kidnapped.” (Girl—)
Enter Hades, who of course kidnaps Persephone. (Who woulda thought-) The prince of The Underworld, Hades is worried about the predicament The Underworld is in. A drought as well. His people are thirsty and dying, his father is nowhere to be seen - so he takes matters into his own hands. Kidnap and sacrificed their girl to appease their god to end the drought.
Persephone is ya girl. She’s fierce and sassy when she’s in Hades presence, determined to escape and head back to her mother.
Our two main characters go through a few challenges together, a few tough spots, and of course fall in love. Everything changes at home while she’s gone, and she ends up wanting to stay with Hades. (Of course—)
The ending of the book, to me, was really surprising - and ends on a slight cliffhanger. It honestly leaves you with questions and wanting more. What’s going to happen next? And that leaves me really wanting book 2.
I give this book 4 stars. There are some parts of the book I found boring- mostly the beginning, and just meh. But it does pick up and get really interesting! I do recommend a read!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
October 20, 2025ARC review
Cordelia Casse’s The Catacomb King is a hauntingly seductive reimagining of the Hades and Persephone myth—equal parts romantic fantasy, psychological warfare, and mythological intrigue. This isn’t your typical descent into the underworld. It’s a slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers tale wrapped in secrets, sacrifice, and sizzling tension.
Persephone is no damsel. She’s a fierce, defiant force driven by love for her dying mother and a refusal to be anyone’s pawn. Her journey from desperate herbal thief to reluctant captive of the underworld is laced with grit, sarcasm, and emotional depth. She’s the kind of heroine who claws her way through darkness and dares to challenge gods.
Hades is brooding, enigmatic, and maddeningly magnetic. His motives are murky, his kingdom eerie and dangerous, and his connection to Persephone—volatile and electric. Their dynamic is a masterclass in tension: loathing laced with longing, resistance tangled with desire.
Casse’s underworld is not just a place—it’s a living, breathing labyrinth of godlings, curses, and twisted politics. The rules are chilling: don’t cross the border, don’t eat the fruit, don’t let them touch you. The stakes are high, and the consequences are brutal. Every page drips with atmosphere and dread.
As Persephone uncovers the truth behind Hades’s secrets and the evil threatening both their worlds, the story spirals into a high-stakes battle between survival and surrender. The romance is slow, spicy, and emotionally charged, with banter that bites and chemistry that scorches.
The Catacomb King is a darkly delicious fantasy that blends myth with menace, romance with rebellion. If you crave morally gray characters, forbidden attraction, and a heroine who refuses to break, this book will devour you whole.
A wickedly addictive start to a duology that promises even more danger, desire, and divine chaos.
Cordelia Casse’s The Catacomb King is a hauntingly seductive reimagining of the Hades and Persephone myth—equal parts romantic fantasy, psychological warfare, and mythological intrigue. This isn’t your typical descent into the underworld. It’s a slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers tale wrapped in secrets, sacrifice, and sizzling tension.
Persephone is no damsel. She’s a fierce, defiant force driven by love for her dying mother and a refusal to be anyone’s pawn. Her journey from desperate herbal thief to reluctant captive of the underworld is laced with grit, sarcasm, and emotional depth. She’s the kind of heroine who claws her way through darkness and dares to challenge gods.
Hades is brooding, enigmatic, and maddeningly magnetic. His motives are murky, his kingdom eerie and dangerous, and his connection to Persephone—volatile and electric. Their dynamic is a masterclass in tension: loathing laced with longing, resistance tangled with desire.
Casse’s underworld is not just a place—it’s a living, breathing labyrinth of godlings, curses, and twisted politics. The rules are chilling: don’t cross the border, don’t eat the fruit, don’t let them touch you. The stakes are high, and the consequences are brutal. Every page drips with atmosphere and dread.
As Persephone uncovers the truth behind Hades’s secrets and the evil threatening both their worlds, the story spirals into a high-stakes battle between survival and surrender. The romance is slow, spicy, and emotionally charged, with banter that bites and chemistry that scorches.
The Catacomb King is a darkly delicious fantasy that blends myth with menace, romance with rebellion. If you crave morally gray characters, forbidden attraction, and a heroine who refuses to break, this book will devour you whole.
A wickedly addictive start to a duology that promises even more danger, desire, and divine chaos.
October 21, 2025
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
It was honestly a pleasure to read this book. I love a good Hades/Persephone retelling, and this one was great. I loved the unique twist Cordelia gave to this. It’s not in line with the normal tales of Greek mythology, so if you’re going into this thinking it is, you may be disappointed. I however, was not. Over all the spice rating for me was 1.5 🌶️ I will also say that if you have arachnophobia, this probably won’t be the book for you.
Persephone lives in a town bordering the underworld. For hundreds of years the women of the town have lived in fear of the godlings of the underworld. With having an abduction every 25 years, Persephone is told to stay away. But when her mother falls ill, she decides to sneak to the borders to collect herbs she needs for the tonic she makes to keep her mother’s sickness at bay. For a while she got away with it, until she didn’t. But why now? It had been almost a year since the abduction deadline…
Hades ( told as the prince of the underworld) has his reasonings for his abduction, but it’s not for the reason the previous abductions were for. Hades needs Persephone’s help, to aide his “people”(spider godlings) and along the way develops more.
I was instantly hooked to this story. The world building seems off in the beginning, but by the end it all makes sense. I truly believe that the readers better understand everything by the end, when Persephone does, because this book is in her point of view. The underworld is unknown to the humans, any stories that are told are passed down generations with no actual knowledge of what or who is down there. The only real claim they have is from an escapee who made it out but she was traumatized and she was the only one who made it out alive.
The ending sets up for the next adventure that is to come after the storm, and I am truly excited to get back into this story.
It was honestly a pleasure to read this book. I love a good Hades/Persephone retelling, and this one was great. I loved the unique twist Cordelia gave to this. It’s not in line with the normal tales of Greek mythology, so if you’re going into this thinking it is, you may be disappointed. I however, was not. Over all the spice rating for me was 1.5 🌶️ I will also say that if you have arachnophobia, this probably won’t be the book for you.
Persephone lives in a town bordering the underworld. For hundreds of years the women of the town have lived in fear of the godlings of the underworld. With having an abduction every 25 years, Persephone is told to stay away. But when her mother falls ill, she decides to sneak to the borders to collect herbs she needs for the tonic she makes to keep her mother’s sickness at bay. For a while she got away with it, until she didn’t. But why now? It had been almost a year since the abduction deadline…
Hades ( told as the prince of the underworld) has his reasonings for his abduction, but it’s not for the reason the previous abductions were for. Hades needs Persephone’s help, to aide his “people”(spider godlings) and along the way develops more.
I was instantly hooked to this story. The world building seems off in the beginning, but by the end it all makes sense. I truly believe that the readers better understand everything by the end, when Persephone does, because this book is in her point of view. The underworld is unknown to the humans, any stories that are told are passed down generations with no actual knowledge of what or who is down there. The only real claim they have is from an escapee who made it out but she was traumatized and she was the only one who made it out alive.
The ending sets up for the next adventure that is to come after the storm, and I am truly excited to get back into this story.
December 12, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
Thank you so much to Cordelia Casse for sending me this ARC in return for my honest review.
I loved this book. Absolutely loved it. This was my first read of a Peresphone/Hades trope.
I was drawn in immediately because Peresphone was so quit witted and no nonsense. She knew what she was doing was wrong, but she loved her mother so much she didn't care. I wanted to hate Josie, but she seemed to be too much of a simpleton to. It wasn't her fault Peresphone was poor and needed a job anyway. Calix, however, can go kick rocks. I didn't like him from the first description of him and I'm glad my guy instinct was right.
The underworld being housed by spider human hybrids sounded TERRIFYING. When the author was describing them while they were building the reservoir, I literally felt myself clenching my jaw because of how unpleasant it sounded. THAT is good writing. But Elke, I love her. Spider, servant, whatever she is. I love her spirit even though she was terrified of Peresphone or of what Hades would do/say, she still overcame it and helped in the end.
Hades. Oh, Hades. Kidnap me any day, My Lordship. As much of a hard ass that he was, I loved and appreciated the fact that he was just a boy trying desperately to get his father to approve of him and accept him. I love that he was "more his mother" and more of a caring, good person. It made him more humanoid in a place of monsters.
The only reason I didn't give this book 5 stars was because I felt like in some places I missed something. For example, in the ending where Peresphone realizes the king is the Monarch she states they only had an hour and were down to 6 minutes but I couldn't find anywhere in previous pages that stated this. I know in the two books they were comparing in an earlier chapter they state it was an hour difference, but while everything was going down I don't know where this timing came in.
Overall, I will be desperately waiting for Book 2.
🕷️
Thank you so much to Cordelia Casse for sending me this ARC in return for my honest review.
I loved this book. Absolutely loved it. This was my first read of a Peresphone/Hades trope.
I was drawn in immediately because Peresphone was so quit witted and no nonsense. She knew what she was doing was wrong, but she loved her mother so much she didn't care. I wanted to hate Josie, but she seemed to be too much of a simpleton to. It wasn't her fault Peresphone was poor and needed a job anyway. Calix, however, can go kick rocks. I didn't like him from the first description of him and I'm glad my guy instinct was right.
The underworld being housed by spider human hybrids sounded TERRIFYING. When the author was describing them while they were building the reservoir, I literally felt myself clenching my jaw because of how unpleasant it sounded. THAT is good writing. But Elke, I love her. Spider, servant, whatever she is. I love her spirit even though she was terrified of Peresphone or of what Hades would do/say, she still overcame it and helped in the end.
Hades. Oh, Hades. Kidnap me any day, My Lordship. As much of a hard ass that he was, I loved and appreciated the fact that he was just a boy trying desperately to get his father to approve of him and accept him. I love that he was "more his mother" and more of a caring, good person. It made him more humanoid in a place of monsters.
The only reason I didn't give this book 5 stars was because I felt like in some places I missed something. For example, in the ending where Peresphone realizes the king is the Monarch she states they only had an hour and were down to 6 minutes but I couldn't find anywhere in previous pages that stated this. I know in the two books they were comparing in an earlier chapter they state it was an hour difference, but while everything was going down I don't know where this timing came in.
Overall, I will be desperately waiting for Book 2.
🕷️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 13, 2025
💀 The Catacomb King is My New Roman Holiday 💀
Read This Book If...
* you love a good Hades and Persephone retelling, but with more attitude.
* you're looking for a new obsession.
* you want to remember what it's like to fall in love with a fictional character.
* you need a book with a good-looking villain (or is he?).
👑 The King is Hot. It's a Fact.
Look, I'm not going to lie. I picked up this book because the cover art looked like my type. And let me tell you, it delivered. The Catacomb King is everything you want in a morally ambiguous love interest. He's brooding, he's powerful, he's got a mysterious past, and he's not afraid to get his hands dirty. And honestly, I'm here for it.
🌸 Persephone has a Personality
This isn't your average damsel in distress. Persephone is a badass. She's smart, she's sassy, she's not afraid to speak her mind, and she's not afraid to challenge the King. Their banter is amazing, and their chemistry is off the charts. It's the kind of relationship that makes you want to read every single word.
✨ The World is Beautifully Grim
The world-building in this book is incredible. The author, Cordelia Casse, has created a world that's both beautiful and dark, full of ancient secrets and powerful magic. It's the kind of world that you want to get lost in, even if it's full of danger.
The Catacomb King is a truly compelling and well-written book. It's the perfect mix of fantasy, romance, and adventure, and it's everything I've ever wanted in a book.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC. And a special thank you to the editor and writer, Cordelia Casse, for creating a world that made me want to run away to the underworld. You've ruined all other book boyfriends for me.
Read This Book If...
* you love a good Hades and Persephone retelling, but with more attitude.
* you're looking for a new obsession.
* you want to remember what it's like to fall in love with a fictional character.
* you need a book with a good-looking villain (or is he?).
👑 The King is Hot. It's a Fact.
Look, I'm not going to lie. I picked up this book because the cover art looked like my type. And let me tell you, it delivered. The Catacomb King is everything you want in a morally ambiguous love interest. He's brooding, he's powerful, he's got a mysterious past, and he's not afraid to get his hands dirty. And honestly, I'm here for it.
🌸 Persephone has a Personality
This isn't your average damsel in distress. Persephone is a badass. She's smart, she's sassy, she's not afraid to speak her mind, and she's not afraid to challenge the King. Their banter is amazing, and their chemistry is off the charts. It's the kind of relationship that makes you want to read every single word.
✨ The World is Beautifully Grim
The world-building in this book is incredible. The author, Cordelia Casse, has created a world that's both beautiful and dark, full of ancient secrets and powerful magic. It's the kind of world that you want to get lost in, even if it's full of danger.
The Catacomb King is a truly compelling and well-written book. It's the perfect mix of fantasy, romance, and adventure, and it's everything I've ever wanted in a book.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC. And a special thank you to the editor and writer, Cordelia Casse, for creating a world that made me want to run away to the underworld. You've ruined all other book boyfriends for me.
September 22, 2025
What in the name of all the book gods did I just read?? 😭🔥 This book completely destroyed me. From the opening chapter, I was catapulted into a fantasy world so rich and twisted that I literally didn’t come up for air. Plans? Cancelled. Responsibilities? Abandoned. My family? Well they will recover.
“Trust me little goddess. If I wanted to scandalize you, I would take a very different approach.”
This story is not your typical retelling. It’s dark, lush, emotionally feral, and the author somehow made me root for characters I had no business caring about…don’t even get me started about how I now have real feelings for a literal spider human. Therapy? Immediately🕷️🥹 The MMC? A brooding, morally grey High Lord who’s two steps ahead of everyone, dark and savage but like also soft and cuddly in a twisted kind of way🖤
“If any part of you is ever awake in there-and I hope to the Monarch it’s not- then I want you to know that you will never be alone.” 💔
The themes wrecked me: regret, loss, resilience, love that refuses to let go. And then the slow burn? THE slow burn. It was agony. It was perfect. It was the literary equivalent of screaming into a pillow. Normally, I am not a “let’s suffer for 400 pages before one kiss” kind of girl, but here I was, feral and thriving.
And now… I’m left in shambles waiting for book 2 (The Resurrection Queen, 2026), because how exactly am I supposed to function until then?
✨ Trope buffet includes:
* Enemies to lovers
* Snarky FMC
* Touch her and die energy
* Hades x Persephone retelling
* Broody High Lord MMC with daddy issues energy
* Magical creatures
If emotional damage wrapped in magic and morally grey chaos is your brand? Congratulations…you just found your next obsession 😈
🌶️🌶️ /5
4.5 ⭐️/5x
“Trust me little goddess. If I wanted to scandalize you, I would take a very different approach.”
This story is not your typical retelling. It’s dark, lush, emotionally feral, and the author somehow made me root for characters I had no business caring about…don’t even get me started about how I now have real feelings for a literal spider human. Therapy? Immediately🕷️🥹 The MMC? A brooding, morally grey High Lord who’s two steps ahead of everyone, dark and savage but like also soft and cuddly in a twisted kind of way🖤
“If any part of you is ever awake in there-and I hope to the Monarch it’s not- then I want you to know that you will never be alone.” 💔
The themes wrecked me: regret, loss, resilience, love that refuses to let go. And then the slow burn? THE slow burn. It was agony. It was perfect. It was the literary equivalent of screaming into a pillow. Normally, I am not a “let’s suffer for 400 pages before one kiss” kind of girl, but here I was, feral and thriving.
And now… I’m left in shambles waiting for book 2 (The Resurrection Queen, 2026), because how exactly am I supposed to function until then?
✨ Trope buffet includes:
* Enemies to lovers
* Snarky FMC
* Touch her and die energy
* Hades x Persephone retelling
* Broody High Lord MMC with daddy issues energy
* Magical creatures
If emotional damage wrapped in magic and morally grey chaos is your brand? Congratulations…you just found your next obsession 😈
🌶️🌶️ /5
4.5 ⭐️/5x
October 13, 2025
⭐️ Rating: 3.5/5
🔥 Spice: Slow-burn, but worth the wait
💀 Tropes: Hades x Persephone, enemies to lovers, forced proximity, fantasy romance
The Catacomb King might be the most unique Hades x Persephone retelling I’ve read yet. Instead of a glittering Olympus or a gothic underworld palace, this one starts in an isolated rural village on the edge of survival.
Persephone’s entire world revolves around keeping her sick mother alive through a brutal drought. Water is scarce, food scarcer, and the only place she can find the herbs her mother needs is a field that borders the underworld itself. When she’s dragged beneath the earth by Hades, a young, brooding prince bound by duty, her life takes a turn she never saw coming.
What I loved most was how different both characters felt. Persephone isn’t the gentle flower we usually see.. she’s fierce, desperate, and scrappy, with a survival instinct that keeps her clawing forward. Hades, on the other hand, isn’t the dark ruler archetype.. he’s complicated, young, and burdened by a kingdom that’s crumbling just like hers.
Together, they discover that the drought isn’t just a mortal problem, it’s spreading through the underworld too. What starts as a kidnapping turns into a reluctant alliance to restore life to both realms. There’s banter, there’s bickering, and yes… there are some steamy moments that definitely kept things interesting.
If you love slow-burn enemies-to-lovers with stakes that feel real, The Catacomb King gives that in spades. It’s an inventive twist on a myth we all know and love.
🔥 Spice: Slow-burn, but worth the wait
💀 Tropes: Hades x Persephone, enemies to lovers, forced proximity, fantasy romance
The Catacomb King might be the most unique Hades x Persephone retelling I’ve read yet. Instead of a glittering Olympus or a gothic underworld palace, this one starts in an isolated rural village on the edge of survival.
Persephone’s entire world revolves around keeping her sick mother alive through a brutal drought. Water is scarce, food scarcer, and the only place she can find the herbs her mother needs is a field that borders the underworld itself. When she’s dragged beneath the earth by Hades, a young, brooding prince bound by duty, her life takes a turn she never saw coming.
What I loved most was how different both characters felt. Persephone isn’t the gentle flower we usually see.. she’s fierce, desperate, and scrappy, with a survival instinct that keeps her clawing forward. Hades, on the other hand, isn’t the dark ruler archetype.. he’s complicated, young, and burdened by a kingdom that’s crumbling just like hers.
Together, they discover that the drought isn’t just a mortal problem, it’s spreading through the underworld too. What starts as a kidnapping turns into a reluctant alliance to restore life to both realms. There’s banter, there’s bickering, and yes… there are some steamy moments that definitely kept things interesting.
If you love slow-burn enemies-to-lovers with stakes that feel real, The Catacomb King gives that in spades. It’s an inventive twist on a myth we all know and love.
October 15, 2025
3.5⭐️
One thing about me: I LOVE a Hades and Persephone retelling in any form🙂↕️ So I was so excited when I was blessed with this ARC!
I loved the idea/concept of this story and I think it was executed VERY well! I love the way Persephone finds empathy and connection with the godlings of the underworld. And I absolutely love Hades, (obviously🤭)
There was nothing wrong with this book, I think personally, a couple things contributed to it being lower in rating than I wanted it to be! First, I was coming down from the high of 2 back to back 600+ page dark and romantic fantasy ARCs when I started this😬 Both of which were 6⭐️ reads, so it’s really hard to follow up books like that!
Second, I, personally, don’t feel like this needed to be two books. Maybe there’s a further plot ahead that just wasn’t super clear to me that will be revealed in book 2, but I think we could have wrapped this one up in 100 more pages with a perfect bow. That being said, I haven’t decided if I’m going to read book 2, but regardless I’m not foaming at the mouth for it!
Also, and I know y’all might hate me for this, I think that’s there’s a potential for too much sarcastic banter. 🙏🏻DON’T HATE ME🙏🏻
I think that done correctly it can be WONDERFUL, but there is also a point where this is too much and it seems forced, and unfortunately that’s how this one felt to me!
Ultimately it was a good read and there was nothing major that made me dislike it, just a couple things here and there that made it not my favorite!
One thing about me: I LOVE a Hades and Persephone retelling in any form🙂↕️ So I was so excited when I was blessed with this ARC!
I loved the idea/concept of this story and I think it was executed VERY well! I love the way Persephone finds empathy and connection with the godlings of the underworld. And I absolutely love Hades, (obviously🤭)
There was nothing wrong with this book, I think personally, a couple things contributed to it being lower in rating than I wanted it to be! First, I was coming down from the high of 2 back to back 600+ page dark and romantic fantasy ARCs when I started this😬 Both of which were 6⭐️ reads, so it’s really hard to follow up books like that!
Second, I, personally, don’t feel like this needed to be two books. Maybe there’s a further plot ahead that just wasn’t super clear to me that will be revealed in book 2, but I think we could have wrapped this one up in 100 more pages with a perfect bow. That being said, I haven’t decided if I’m going to read book 2, but regardless I’m not foaming at the mouth for it!
Also, and I know y’all might hate me for this, I think that’s there’s a potential for too much sarcastic banter. 🙏🏻DON’T HATE ME🙏🏻
I think that done correctly it can be WONDERFUL, but there is also a point where this is too much and it seems forced, and unfortunately that’s how this one felt to me!
Ultimately it was a good read and there was nothing major that made me dislike it, just a couple things here and there that made it not my favorite!
September 30, 2025
Thank you so much to the author and the publisher, Victory Editing NetGalley co-op, for sharing an ARC of this book with me !!!
“You stubborn, impossible creature. Com’è and see my world”
“I swear it on my life … If any part of you is ever awake in there … then I want you to know that you will never be alone”
Such an original version of the kinapping myth of Hades and Persephone and how their love blossomed, where she makes a deal of being an engineer for him while he is still Prince of the Underworld!!! Was I expecting something like this ? Absolutely not!!! It had all the most contemporary setting for a modern version of their story, while also delving deep into the twisted and complicated powers of the underworld and how intertwined Persephone’s life will be with it. And the tension … it was so thick !!! Damn this is such a good version of Hades!!! Way more evident how much of a slave to her he is in their dynamic. It was … different. And yet, still the same. The magical thing about their story is that you can add and subtract as many plot twists as you want, add more side characters that will steal your heart. More betrayals than you would want them to face. But in the end, it’s always Hades and Persephone … and there is such a beauty simply in that !!! Cannot wait for the next one !!!!
“Please, goddess. Beg me. Beg me the way I had to beg you to save my people”
“The Prince of Darkness carried me away from the underworld, just as he had once carried me into it”
“You stubborn, impossible creature. Com’è and see my world”
“I swear it on my life … If any part of you is ever awake in there … then I want you to know that you will never be alone”
Such an original version of the kinapping myth of Hades and Persephone and how their love blossomed, where she makes a deal of being an engineer for him while he is still Prince of the Underworld!!! Was I expecting something like this ? Absolutely not!!! It had all the most contemporary setting for a modern version of their story, while also delving deep into the twisted and complicated powers of the underworld and how intertwined Persephone’s life will be with it. And the tension … it was so thick !!! Damn this is such a good version of Hades!!! Way more evident how much of a slave to her he is in their dynamic. It was … different. And yet, still the same. The magical thing about their story is that you can add and subtract as many plot twists as you want, add more side characters that will steal your heart. More betrayals than you would want them to face. But in the end, it’s always Hades and Persephone … and there is such a beauty simply in that !!! Cannot wait for the next one !!!!
“Please, goddess. Beg me. Beg me the way I had to beg you to save my people”
“The Prince of Darkness carried me away from the underworld, just as he had once carried me into it”
October 15, 2025
Tropes:
💀Captor/Kidnapping
💀Touch Her and Die/Mine Energy
💀Found Family
💀Lust at First Sight
💀Bargain/Deal
💀Morally grey MMC
💀Intelligent FMC
💀Enemies to Lovers
💀BANTER
I may be bias because I haven’t met a Hades and Persephone book I haven’t liked! I really enjoyed this and it was different enough that I didn’t feel like I was reading the same myth of Persephone over again. I was hesitant about the spider people of the underworld, but it really grew on me. The world building and thorough descriptions of the underworlds residents.
The way Hades is portrayed in this is also unique as he is a young man who has spent his whole life in the Underworld and does not understand the intricacies of life above. This is the perfect set up for Persephone with her brilliant mind and steadfast determination (some may call it stubbornness) to set up a deal that can benefit both parties. Although some times obstinate to a fault, Persephone is not some helpless heroine in need of saving (like some iterations of this myth). She is snarky, brave, and immensely caring. And though there was definitely love at first sight, the plot is still at the center of the story.
One thing that threw me off a bit was the very modern dialogue while being set in a time before electricity. But after a while it didn’t bother me at all. This was a very fast paced read. I do prefer a bit more of a slow burn, but it doesn’t take very long to fall in love with Hades.
September 24, 2025
ARC Review. Huge thank you to Cordelia Casse for the advanced copy!
I take about 2 weeks to read 300 pages, and I read this book in 3 DAYS!
The Catacomb King is addictive, clever, and creative. This book is a retelling of Hades and Persephone in the most imaginative way. I have read my fair share of Hades and Persephone retellings, and this was nothing like the slightly formulaic process retellings have become. At no point in this book could I guess what would happen next or what I would learn about the world.
My favorite part of the book might have been the actual worldbuilding. It is so fabulously creative. I don’t want to give too much away, but know that the underworld citizens and the underworld itself are so very unique. Another notable part of the book was the funny and witty banter. I instantly become addicted to characters who know how to use their banter, so basically... I love this Persephone.
The book is from Persephone’s perspective, and so we don’t get into Hades’ thoughts too much. I would have loved to feel Hades as more of a main character; however, he didn’t fully feel like a side character either. I’m excited to see Hades’ character fleshed out even more in the next book! And I will definitely be waiting for the next book (can not wait for more incredible worldbuilding)!
I take about 2 weeks to read 300 pages, and I read this book in 3 DAYS!
The Catacomb King is addictive, clever, and creative. This book is a retelling of Hades and Persephone in the most imaginative way. I have read my fair share of Hades and Persephone retellings, and this was nothing like the slightly formulaic process retellings have become. At no point in this book could I guess what would happen next or what I would learn about the world.
My favorite part of the book might have been the actual worldbuilding. It is so fabulously creative. I don’t want to give too much away, but know that the underworld citizens and the underworld itself are so very unique. Another notable part of the book was the funny and witty banter. I instantly become addicted to characters who know how to use their banter, so basically... I love this Persephone.
The book is from Persephone’s perspective, and so we don’t get into Hades’ thoughts too much. I would have loved to feel Hades as more of a main character; however, he didn’t fully feel like a side character either. I’m excited to see Hades’ character fleshed out even more in the next book! And I will definitely be waiting for the next book (can not wait for more incredible worldbuilding)!
October 5, 2025
🤩🤩🤩🤩
"The Catacomb King" takes the Hades and Persephone myth and reshapes it into something truly compelling and atmospheric. This was a fantastic, engaging read that felt like a breath of fresh, albeit subterranean, air into the world of mythological romance.
What absolutely shines here is Persephone. She’s not just a passive goddess waiting to be claimed; she is fiercely realized, full of humanity, and her personal journey of growth and resilience is the real anchor of this story. Her complexity makes her easy to root for, and her transformation is beautifully handled. The slow-burn romance between her and the titular Catacomb King is exquisite—it’s full of delicious tension, palpable chemistry, and the kind of longing glances that make you want to speed-read, even while you cherish every drawn-out moment.
The world-building of the Underworld and its Catacombs is vivid and haunting, perfectly setting the stage for their dynamic. Cordelia Casse does a brilliant job of making the familiar myth feel unique. The political stakes and the deeper lore woven throughout kept me turning the pages late into the night.
Overall, this is a phenomenal start to the Rise of Persephone series. If you love dark, character-driven fantasy romance with incredible spice and a mythological foundation, pick this up immediately. I’m already desperate for Book 2!
"The Catacomb King" takes the Hades and Persephone myth and reshapes it into something truly compelling and atmospheric. This was a fantastic, engaging read that felt like a breath of fresh, albeit subterranean, air into the world of mythological romance.
What absolutely shines here is Persephone. She’s not just a passive goddess waiting to be claimed; she is fiercely realized, full of humanity, and her personal journey of growth and resilience is the real anchor of this story. Her complexity makes her easy to root for, and her transformation is beautifully handled. The slow-burn romance between her and the titular Catacomb King is exquisite—it’s full of delicious tension, palpable chemistry, and the kind of longing glances that make you want to speed-read, even while you cherish every drawn-out moment.
The world-building of the Underworld and its Catacombs is vivid and haunting, perfectly setting the stage for their dynamic. Cordelia Casse does a brilliant job of making the familiar myth feel unique. The political stakes and the deeper lore woven throughout kept me turning the pages late into the night.
Overall, this is a phenomenal start to the Rise of Persephone series. If you love dark, character-driven fantasy romance with incredible spice and a mythological foundation, pick this up immediately. I’m already desperate for Book 2!
October 2, 2025
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Anytime I hear Persephone and Hades, I gobble that book up. This book was something - very different than the standard Greek story with the basic narrative included where she's kidnapped and taken to another world. The godling creature descriptions are very interesting - must tolerate spiders (can't wait to see some fan art). I felt that the first 20% of the book was slow, but it eventually became interesting once she was kidnapped and the plot moved along quickly. The book felt YA to me.
I found the FMC to be a little intolerable - she's taking care of her mom but resents her because she wants to be an engineer, she's pining after her best friend who clearly has no romantic interest in her, constantly says she's not pretty compared to her rich friend, and she's pissed she was kidnapped but sexually attracted to Hades. Her moods gave me whiplash. I believe the author was trying to give her depth, but made her a petulant teenager - I'm assuming she's in her 20s like Hades. This is clearly the first in a series or duology (unsure of which), so we'll see how this story plays out.
Tropes include: female rage, he falls first, one bed, pining, forced proximity, reluctant companions, protective warrior (not the MMC).
Anytime I hear Persephone and Hades, I gobble that book up. This book was something - very different than the standard Greek story with the basic narrative included where she's kidnapped and taken to another world. The godling creature descriptions are very interesting - must tolerate spiders (can't wait to see some fan art). I felt that the first 20% of the book was slow, but it eventually became interesting once she was kidnapped and the plot moved along quickly. The book felt YA to me.
I found the FMC to be a little intolerable - she's taking care of her mom but resents her because she wants to be an engineer, she's pining after her best friend who clearly has no romantic interest in her, constantly says she's not pretty compared to her rich friend, and she's pissed she was kidnapped but sexually attracted to Hades. Her moods gave me whiplash. I believe the author was trying to give her depth, but made her a petulant teenager - I'm assuming she's in her 20s like Hades. This is clearly the first in a series or duology (unsure of which), so we'll see how this story plays out.
Tropes include: female rage, he falls first, one bed, pining, forced proximity, reluctant companions, protective warrior (not the MMC).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 21, 2025
ARC REVIEW!!!📖🖤⚔️
This Hades & Persephone retelling swept me away with its mix of myth, survival, and forbidden longing! Persephone lives in the upper world of Limer, where a brutal drought has left people sick, starving, and desperate. 😔When she ventures to the border of the underworld to gather rare herbs for her dying mother, she’s suddenly thrust into Hades’ world where she is soon forced to face impossible choices…🪬
What I loved most about this book is how it balances strong tension with tenderness. Hades is dark, commanding, but so magnetic. While Persephone is fierce, very clever, and driven by her love for her mother. Their relationship grows with yearning and hate-to-love energy, making every interaction feel electric. There’s also a side character, Elke (a half-spider maid), who brings comedic relief & warmth to the darker moments. She is so pure and living her life the only way she knows. (Elke is my favorite character) 🕷️❤️🔥
I love a good story where the FMC is so powerful & intelligent! As well as top tier world building.
Thank you to Cordelia Casse for letting me be an ARC reader for your book, it was wonderful!!! 💓
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
This Hades & Persephone retelling swept me away with its mix of myth, survival, and forbidden longing! Persephone lives in the upper world of Limer, where a brutal drought has left people sick, starving, and desperate. 😔When she ventures to the border of the underworld to gather rare herbs for her dying mother, she’s suddenly thrust into Hades’ world where she is soon forced to face impossible choices…🪬
What I loved most about this book is how it balances strong tension with tenderness. Hades is dark, commanding, but so magnetic. While Persephone is fierce, very clever, and driven by her love for her mother. Their relationship grows with yearning and hate-to-love energy, making every interaction feel electric. There’s also a side character, Elke (a half-spider maid), who brings comedic relief & warmth to the darker moments. She is so pure and living her life the only way she knows. (Elke is my favorite character) 🕷️❤️🔥
I love a good story where the FMC is so powerful & intelligent! As well as top tier world building.
Thank you to Cordelia Casse for letting me be an ARC reader for your book, it was wonderful!!! 💓
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
September 25, 2025
Thank you Cordelia Casse for the opportunity to read your ARC! This is my honest opinion.
This was an interesting read! I really liked the premise and the whole underground catacomb vibe - dark, creepy, and atmospheric in the best way. The beginning pulled me in quickly, and I wanted to know more about the world. However, the pacing lost me a bit. The middle dragged, which made the ending feel rushed. The writing also felt a little too modern at times for the period it’s meant to be set in. That’s probably more down to my personal taste, though, because the book itself flows really well.
Persephone really got on my nerves at first, but I grew to like her. She’s stubborn, but also fierce, which I loved. Hades was very likeable too. The romance was enjoyable, though it felt more like lust than deep feelings, which makes sense given the short timespan. Elke completely stole the show for me, bringing much-needed comic relief to the tense situations. She was definitely my favourite character!
Overall, it’s a good read for anyone who enjoys a gothic atmosphere with a touch of Greek mythology, especially for readers just starting out with romantasy.
This was an interesting read! I really liked the premise and the whole underground catacomb vibe - dark, creepy, and atmospheric in the best way. The beginning pulled me in quickly, and I wanted to know more about the world. However, the pacing lost me a bit. The middle dragged, which made the ending feel rushed. The writing also felt a little too modern at times for the period it’s meant to be set in. That’s probably more down to my personal taste, though, because the book itself flows really well.
Persephone really got on my nerves at first, but I grew to like her. She’s stubborn, but also fierce, which I loved. Hades was very likeable too. The romance was enjoyable, though it felt more like lust than deep feelings, which makes sense given the short timespan. Elke completely stole the show for me, bringing much-needed comic relief to the tense situations. She was definitely my favourite character!
Overall, it’s a good read for anyone who enjoys a gothic atmosphere with a touch of Greek mythology, especially for readers just starting out with romantasy.
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