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Aphrodite Project #1
The Tenth Muse
Book 1 in The Aphrodite Project series
In a wicked game, the God of Love falls to his own arrow, and a gentle scholar learns how dangerous knowledge can be.
Aphrodite has had it.
It was bad enough that her son Eros walked a fashion show in drag, but did he really have to show the entire world his wings? Desperate to rein in the impulsive young god, she recruits the scholarly muse Rees to lure him back to Olympus until the scandal dies down.
After hundreds of years, Eros has finally located the reincarnation of his former love, Psyche. The only way to her heart is through fame, so the God of Love plans a daring campaign to win her back. Yet the closer he gets to Psyche, the more he’s drawn to a geeky young professor who came crashing into his life.
Eros drags Rees into his wicked world of high fashion and risqué parties, only to expose him to danger from an unexpected source. When Rees’ secrets come out, they threaten to destroy Eros’ love for him. Yet when Rees is kidnapped, Eros is forced to turn to the woman who set this catastrophe in motion—his mother, Aphrodite.
222 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 17, 2016
9 people are currently reading
168 people want to read
About the author
Belinda McBride
65 books402 followersBelinda is an award-winning, top selling author of erotic romance, speculative fiction and LGBTQ romance. She lives in far Northern California with her family and a pack of Siberian Huskies.
A graduate of CSU Chico, she managed to attend the notorious party school without once getting drunk, arrested or appearing in a "Girls Gone Wild" video. Her main focus of study was classical and archival history, cultural anthropology and
theatre arts.
A graduate of CSU Chico, she managed to attend the notorious party school without once getting drunk, arrested or appearing in a "Girls Gone Wild" video. Her main focus of study was classical and archival history, cultural anthropology and
theatre arts.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
May 18, 2016
This is a sexy modern version of Greek mythology.
I am so glad that I bypassed my fashion catwalk aversion to pick this up. I'm not enamored with the industry and get no thrills from gossip or social media tantrums, but the idea of a mashup with Greek mythology and previous good experiences with McBride convinced me.
AND... it was beyond, totally exceeded expectations. Like outta the ballpark, not just a homerun.
Eros, 470-460 B.C. lekythos
First, hands down the best modern representation of Greek gods I've read. They're still in character, not rewritten as humans, and they rocked. McBride took all those traits and interpreted them correctly giving them relevance. Not just one or two characters, but a nice chunk of the pantheon.
So, you have immortals, some hidden, some hidden in plain sight, existing and carrying on. Grudges, prior experiences, and allegiances and disgruntlements are still in play. This is political because Mt. Olympus was political; there was always something going down and someone not happy about it. The drama is built into the pantheon, they reflect humanity and that hasn't been forgotten here.
Eros, a fertility god and the personification of lust set loose, well, it shouldn't be much of a surprise that there's partying going on, people hooking up, and some bruised feelings here and there. And watch out if he brings out the bow. Needless to say, it is imperative to keep one's cover when canoodling with the mortals. Therefore, bringing undue attention is frowned upon and the gods are not known for their rational responses.
BAM! Excitement, frolicking and all around frivolity is present. But, after lifetimes some things get boring and others are just as obsession inducing as they always were. Cue the heartbreak. *sigh*
There were so many ways this could slide into easy tropes and blah, blah, blah until the end. It didn't. A whole bunch of twists and turns, and don't worry a mastery of Greek mythology isn't necessary because there are plenty of explanations. What ends up happening is a rather sophisticated hurt/comfort theme under a glossy veneer. The histories surrounding the characters are dramatic and how McBride navigates it is both honest, tender, and at times humorous. It's ingenious, a breath of fresh air into the world of gods.
Overall, a gifted interpretation that goes beyond the superficial to unveil the humanity in Greek deities.
~A copy was provided to me for a No Glitter Blown review~
~~Reviewed for Hearts On Fire Reviews~~
I am so glad that I bypassed my fashion catwalk aversion to pick this up. I'm not enamored with the industry and get no thrills from gossip or social media tantrums, but the idea of a mashup with Greek mythology and previous good experiences with McBride convinced me.
AND... it was beyond, totally exceeded expectations. Like outta the ballpark, not just a homerun.
Eros, 470-460 B.C. lekythos
First, hands down the best modern representation of Greek gods I've read. They're still in character, not rewritten as humans, and they rocked. McBride took all those traits and interpreted them correctly giving them relevance. Not just one or two characters, but a nice chunk of the pantheon.
So, you have immortals, some hidden, some hidden in plain sight, existing and carrying on. Grudges, prior experiences, and allegiances and disgruntlements are still in play. This is political because Mt. Olympus was political; there was always something going down and someone not happy about it. The drama is built into the pantheon, they reflect humanity and that hasn't been forgotten here.
Eros, a fertility god and the personification of lust set loose, well, it shouldn't be much of a surprise that there's partying going on, people hooking up, and some bruised feelings here and there. And watch out if he brings out the bow. Needless to say, it is imperative to keep one's cover when canoodling with the mortals. Therefore, bringing undue attention is frowned upon and the gods are not known for their rational responses.
BAM! Excitement, frolicking and all around frivolity is present. But, after lifetimes some things get boring and others are just as obsession inducing as they always were. Cue the heartbreak. *sigh*
In all, he was still on the topside instead of pushing up daisies in Tartarus, so loneliness aside, he was doing pretty well.
There were so many ways this could slide into easy tropes and blah, blah, blah until the end. It didn't. A whole bunch of twists and turns, and don't worry a mastery of Greek mythology isn't necessary because there are plenty of explanations. What ends up happening is a rather sophisticated hurt/comfort theme under a glossy veneer. The histories surrounding the characters are dramatic and how McBride navigates it is both honest, tender, and at times humorous. It's ingenious, a breath of fresh air into the world of gods.
Overall, a gifted interpretation that goes beyond the superficial to unveil the humanity in Greek deities.
~A copy was provided to me for a No Glitter Blown review~
~~Reviewed for Hearts On Fire Reviews~~
September 25, 2016
Lovely book, so satisfying. Lyrical writing. Adored the ending.
Thank you so much, Vivian *hugs*
Thank you so much, Vivian *hugs*
September 29, 2016
As a little girl I was fascinated by the tales of the Greek Gods, so different than the current gods, so passionate, so many complicated stories.
This story brought back cherished memories and with its intricate and empathic depiction of the gods made me enjoy it. Apart from the moments were McBride cranked up the angst and then jumped to the aftermath rather than taking me with her on all the steps, I've nothing to complain about. Even her treatment of the fashion world was balanced, showing many of it's facets, good or bad.
I'd love there to be more stories in this series.
September 6, 2020
I love Ancient Gods in modern setting trope, so when I found this book I was so excited! It didn't disappoint. What an absolute gem of a story! We get angst, hurt/comfort, good amount of steam, well known myths with a new twist, diverse well fleshed out characters and LOVE between Gods - long lasting and ever forgiving. I loved it. I loved how the author used mythology to bring the story and its characters to life, how she gave them compassion and humility which Gods are not well known for.
Eros, God of Lust, and Rees, the Tenth Muse, are nothing alike except for their mutual divinity but they just fit. Even though love develops quickly, they have to go through betrayal and so much anguish to see that they can be together after all. I loved their sweet moments and the soothing vibe they had when together. It was such a joy to read. Fashion world where the story unfolded was well written, fun and full of jealous models, mercurial artists and of course high fashion. It didn't overwhelm the story but added to the characters.
The twist in the end was, wow, out of this world unexpected and so good. It made the story more angsty, wholehearted and rich. There was mild level of suspense and certain amount of Godly magic thrown around but not in a convenient fix it way but in a way that showed their omnipotence with understanding that even some things can't be magically repaired - what's needed is time and patience. The story spans over a period of couple of years on and off page, so there is a gamut of events, feelings and people gracing the pages. I enjoyed the steady pace, the characters both main and secondary that were fluid and unorthodox. This is my first time reading this author's work, and I really enjoyed the writing style and will definitely read more. Copy received for my honest and unbiased review
Eros, God of Lust, and Rees, the Tenth Muse, are nothing alike except for their mutual divinity but they just fit. Even though love develops quickly, they have to go through betrayal and so much anguish to see that they can be together after all. I loved their sweet moments and the soothing vibe they had when together. It was such a joy to read. Fashion world where the story unfolded was well written, fun and full of jealous models, mercurial artists and of course high fashion. It didn't overwhelm the story but added to the characters.
The twist in the end was, wow, out of this world unexpected and so good. It made the story more angsty, wholehearted and rich. There was mild level of suspense and certain amount of Godly magic thrown around but not in a convenient fix it way but in a way that showed their omnipotence with understanding that even some things can't be magically repaired - what's needed is time and patience. The story spans over a period of couple of years on and off page, so there is a gamut of events, feelings and people gracing the pages. I enjoyed the steady pace, the characters both main and secondary that were fluid and unorthodox. This is my first time reading this author's work, and I really enjoyed the writing style and will definitely read more. Copy received for my honest and unbiased review
May 11, 2016
An ARC of this book was provided to me in exchange for an honest review.
Anybody who remembers studying the Greek Gods and Goddesses in English class knows they got up to a lot of hijinks; even in the sanitized versions approved for the classroom. This is the story of Eros (definitely not in the ‘chubby kid with a bow’ mode) and Rees, the scholarly and beautiful tenth muse who resides in the Elysian Fields – and it is unlikely to ever appear in a classroom.
Eros is on Earth hunting the reincarnation of his beloved Psyche who has become an A-list fashion model. In pursuit of her he does something spectacularly attention-getting by appearing on the runway of a huge fashion show - in drag and wearing his own wings. He gets her attention all right, and that of various irate gods and goddesses including his mother, Aphrodite.
Aphrodite persuades Rees to go to Earth and masquerade as human and eventually lure Eros back to Olympus. Rees agrees and finds himself liking, and more than liking Eros. As time passes the lies feel more and more like a betrayal, the love feels more and more real…
Like many of us, Eros had a dream, a shining vision he had been pursuing – the dream of Psyche. But the current incarnation, Rosalinda, is drug-addicted, not particularly nice, and in love with another man. The reality is nothing like his vision. And then there’s Rees, warm, charming, beautiful and human. Destined to die just like Psyche. Can he bear another love and loss? Eros is conflicted, extremely conflicted.
The focus of this book is the love story and it is simply beautifully done. There are other plot elements of course, Rees is kidnapped, there are complex relationships playing out among the Olympians, and twists on the traditional myths that we thought we knew. Incidentally, you don’t have to remember any of this stuff from high school – the author does a great job of dropping the necessary information into the story flow. But if you’re curious? That’s why they invented Google…
This is listed as book one of the Aphrodite Project. I’m sure we’ll be seeing some of the wonderful supporting characters moving to the fore in later books. I look forward to them!
Anybody who remembers studying the Greek Gods and Goddesses in English class knows they got up to a lot of hijinks; even in the sanitized versions approved for the classroom. This is the story of Eros (definitely not in the ‘chubby kid with a bow’ mode) and Rees, the scholarly and beautiful tenth muse who resides in the Elysian Fields – and it is unlikely to ever appear in a classroom.
Eros is on Earth hunting the reincarnation of his beloved Psyche who has become an A-list fashion model. In pursuit of her he does something spectacularly attention-getting by appearing on the runway of a huge fashion show - in drag and wearing his own wings. He gets her attention all right, and that of various irate gods and goddesses including his mother, Aphrodite.
Aphrodite persuades Rees to go to Earth and masquerade as human and eventually lure Eros back to Olympus. Rees agrees and finds himself liking, and more than liking Eros. As time passes the lies feel more and more like a betrayal, the love feels more and more real…
Like many of us, Eros had a dream, a shining vision he had been pursuing – the dream of Psyche. But the current incarnation, Rosalinda, is drug-addicted, not particularly nice, and in love with another man. The reality is nothing like his vision. And then there’s Rees, warm, charming, beautiful and human. Destined to die just like Psyche. Can he bear another love and loss? Eros is conflicted, extremely conflicted.
The focus of this book is the love story and it is simply beautifully done. There are other plot elements of course, Rees is kidnapped, there are complex relationships playing out among the Olympians, and twists on the traditional myths that we thought we knew. Incidentally, you don’t have to remember any of this stuff from high school – the author does a great job of dropping the necessary information into the story flow. But if you’re curious? That’s why they invented Google…
This is listed as book one of the Aphrodite Project. I’m sure we’ll be seeing some of the wonderful supporting characters moving to the fore in later books. I look forward to them!
August 23, 2016
This story possesses it all: love, betrayal and hope. This story moved me both from a character perspective as well as a plot development. My heart hurt as Ms. McBride punches her characters in the gut over and over. For those who enjoy Greek tragedies, this is the one for you. The reader's emotions are dragged through a flogging with steel tips.
On the surface, this tale starts out a bit frivolous with Eros behaving badly on earth. To get him in line, Aphrodite decides to send Rees to bring Eros back into line. Eros comes across as a spoiled brat trying to get attention from his parents. Rees is the dutiful helper. He's the tenth muse. This artistic license was okay for me as I have always learned there were nine muses. I am not going to delve too much into the character development because it is best experienced. When Rees and Eros meet, this is when the story becomes interesting.
Ms. McBride morphs this Greek Mythos with her special twist. This new version is just as agony filled with selfish lovers and hubris demi-gods. It is true what they say, those who forget the past will be doomed to repeat it. This reinterpretation of Eros and Psyche along with another much loved Greek story is masterfully done. Ms. McBride blends the old with new and transforms it into a new love with hope and endless possibilities.
In order to get to this happily ever after, the journey does take some dark turns. It shows how some people will lose their mind trying to find their inspiration or what they consider a "muse". This frightening rendition of stalker is horrifying and helps set up the big reveal as everything needs to be shattered in order to bring about rebirth. I am very impressed with Ms. McBride's writing. This is a lovely tale rich with strong imagery and powerful emotions. Highly recommended for m/m romance readers who enjoy an angst filled odyssey ending with a passionate finish.
May 23, 2016
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed the book, the story was clever, amusing and had a really lovely feel to it, as Eros is gently tricked into falling in love. It was a little tricky trying to understand all the relationships between the Greek God/Goddess however it was well done, and explained in a good order.
Rees was living his life in Olympus as a scholar however starting to realise that maybe he needed to push himself. Along comes the Goddess of Love, who needs a little bit of help with her wayward son, Eros who is currently strutting his stuff on catwalks and not being as discrete as he needs to be while he tries to win back a lost love.
'It was like a train wreck,' was a really good way of describing how things progressed as Rees moved into Eros life and turned it upside down, while bringing laughter, life and the God of Lust, back to LOVE.
What was surprising is how Rees finds himself. . . no spoilers here, however it was a surprise.
Plenty of angry vengeful Gods, ego eccentric models, disaster, angst and eventually love. I really enjoyed how Rees gently pushed Eros into realising that he is not doing his job, and love has suffered as a result.
Good story, and I was happy to read it and look forward to the next story.
I really enjoyed the book, the story was clever, amusing and had a really lovely feel to it, as Eros is gently tricked into falling in love. It was a little tricky trying to understand all the relationships between the Greek God/Goddess however it was well done, and explained in a good order.
Rees was living his life in Olympus as a scholar however starting to realise that maybe he needed to push himself. Along comes the Goddess of Love, who needs a little bit of help with her wayward son, Eros who is currently strutting his stuff on catwalks and not being as discrete as he needs to be while he tries to win back a lost love.
'It was like a train wreck,' was a really good way of describing how things progressed as Rees moved into Eros life and turned it upside down, while bringing laughter, life and the God of Lust, back to LOVE.
What was surprising is how Rees finds himself. . . no spoilers here, however it was a surprise.
Plenty of angry vengeful Gods, ego eccentric models, disaster, angst and eventually love. I really enjoyed how Rees gently pushed Eros into realising that he is not doing his job, and love has suffered as a result.
Good story, and I was happy to read it and look forward to the next story.
January 31, 2024
I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
For me, this story was the perfect mix of drama, humor, cruelty, jealousy, love, and sex…just as the Greek gods--and their human descendants--would have wanted it. Belinda McBride’s twists on Greek mythology made it even more enjoyable, definitely renewing my youthful interest in mythology. Belinda showed me gods who are real, appealing, flawed, and as human as the rest of us.
Eros and Rees are both likeable MCs. They’ve had to overcome trials and tribulations in the past and have to do so again in the present as they come to understand, accept, and love each other.
The moments of humor that were woven into the story really made me laugh. I can just see Eros trying to divest himself of his “skinny leg pants”.
“Gods, what a dysfunctional family!” ROTFLMAO. My favorite line in the story.
I think the modern soap opera must have been modeled on this family. Who slept with whom, who fathered whom, who loves whom, who wields more power, etc.
More of this family, please! I’d especially like to read about Herma finding love. And I’d like to follow Ares’ adventures to find out whether he redeems himself in his new identity.
For me, this story was the perfect mix of drama, humor, cruelty, jealousy, love, and sex…just as the Greek gods--and their human descendants--would have wanted it. Belinda McBride’s twists on Greek mythology made it even more enjoyable, definitely renewing my youthful interest in mythology. Belinda showed me gods who are real, appealing, flawed, and as human as the rest of us.
Eros and Rees are both likeable MCs. They’ve had to overcome trials and tribulations in the past and have to do so again in the present as they come to understand, accept, and love each other.
The moments of humor that were woven into the story really made me laugh. I can just see Eros trying to divest himself of his “skinny leg pants”.
“Gods, what a dysfunctional family!” ROTFLMAO. My favorite line in the story.
I think the modern soap opera must have been modeled on this family. Who slept with whom, who fathered whom, who loves whom, who wields more power, etc.
More of this family, please! I’d especially like to read about Herma finding love. And I’d like to follow Ares’ adventures to find out whether he redeems himself in his new identity.
dnf
January 27, 2021DNF 12%
Nope, nope, nope! Life’s too short to suffer through such immature, high-school level writing!
Nope, nope, nope! Life’s too short to suffer through such immature, high-school level writing!
May 12, 2016
"All the world grieved when Orpheus remembered.”
In ninth grade, we had this mythology week in English class, and I remember it was life breathing for the first time. During tenth grade, we had an entire semester dedicated for mythology, we had to explore and read every myth and lore there was in Greek mythology and I thrived. It never felt like homework, I was just gobbling it all up and to this day I still can remember every story.
I have phases in readings; like that one time were all I wanted was to read about mermaid, and then I was the queen of New Adult when it was in its emerging days. And as such, you better believe that I had a Mythology Retellings phase, how could I not? It’s like fanfic in book format.
Except each author has their take on; they make each story their own. Belinda McBride wove an interesting and complex story, although it’s so subtle that by the time it hits you, you’re quiet mad at yourself for not seeing it coming. I sure was, but still I was all the more impressed by it.
The truth is that I could never pinpoint Eros and Rees, could never anticipate or gauge where they were going with things. I found the plot to be the driving force, as it should be, with this novel. At first, the reader is comforted with a sense of predictability, but McBride tosses that out the window with a plot twist that I find brilliant.
The only reason why I faltered with the rating, even though I thoroughly enjoyed the book and experience as a whole, is the romance. Perhaps if the romance wasn’t so essential to the plot it would be overlooked. And though I understand some of the decisions of time constraints in regards to the plot and the progression of events in said plot this is the way it came out, I find it lacking in some parts. I want to be swept off my feet with the romance in romance books. I felt inklings of it, but every time it was close it just fell. Eros and Rees are tricky, what with their past, but sometimes I just wanted that love to be more. They’re after all magical.
“I would walk past a museum and wonder if you were inside. I’d hear a funny bit of conversation, or see a brilliant bit of art and wish you were there to share it with me. And my body…” He shook his head sadly. “It will not cooperate with me, Rees”
The Tenth Muse was magical and intriguing in it’s plot, and I felt enough from Eros and Rees that I’m satisfied. I absolutely loved the reincarnations aspect to it all, and they way that the story sticks to what is essentially mythology; explaining the way things work in reality. So that aspect of reincarnation and having some burdens affect your present life was just perfect. Let me tell you having a mother who researches all that makes for amazing reading knowledge.
The mythology is this novel still revived me, and I still feel a sense of wonderment whilst reading it. So, if your looking for an introduction to some mythology characters I think this is a perfect reading starter.
For more of my reviews visit me at The Written Voice of Is
May 13, 2016
I like to say that I've never met a mythological being I didn't love and McBride's are no exception. If the Greek gods were driven by larger than life human characteristics and emotions (and they were), then McBride has captured the essence and flavor, the essential mythos of the genre in this character-driven story.
One can’t help but appreciate the passion and anger the main character, Eros, feels as he experiences the betrayal and disappointment only centuries of longing and denial of his true love can produce, and McBride portrays his emotion in a believable way and sets the scene for the sequence of rather spectacular events that follow. It's a love story, after all, his long lost love, Psyche, that he feels he can't live without that leads him to earth where he meets a new love, Rees, (secretly sent by his mother to seduce and bring him home) who he thinks he doesn't care about, until he realizes he does.
There are other gods and demi-gods and muses and amusements and world-building aplenty to keep you rooting for your next favorite role players in this series, because between fashion model cross-dressing and love interest gender-swapping, the main character in this novel plays no favorites at all and shoots his arrows wherever they fly. This romance novel is certainly not for the gender-friender shy.
Book Bling gives this 4 stars!
One can’t help but appreciate the passion and anger the main character, Eros, feels as he experiences the betrayal and disappointment only centuries of longing and denial of his true love can produce, and McBride portrays his emotion in a believable way and sets the scene for the sequence of rather spectacular events that follow. It's a love story, after all, his long lost love, Psyche, that he feels he can't live without that leads him to earth where he meets a new love, Rees, (secretly sent by his mother to seduce and bring him home) who he thinks he doesn't care about, until he realizes he does.
There are other gods and demi-gods and muses and amusements and world-building aplenty to keep you rooting for your next favorite role players in this series, because between fashion model cross-dressing and love interest gender-swapping, the main character in this novel plays no favorites at all and shoots his arrows wherever they fly. This romance novel is certainly not for the gender-friender shy.
Book Bling gives this 4 stars!
May 9, 2016
I received a copy of The Tenth Muse from the publisher in return for an honest review.
Young and beautiful Eros gets a little carried away in the human world and needs to be coaxed back home. Aphrodite sends handsome/geeky Reese, brother of the Muses, to do the job. When the "job" becomes a true romance between Rees and Eros, things start to get interesting, and romantic, and hot.
The strength of this book is in the characters: Eros, Rees, Zephyrus, Herma, Wind Sprites, Shadow... The story is built on an awesome cast of interesting characters that left me wanting more. More Herma? More Zephyrus? Yes, please!
The challenge this story presents is large number of tertiary characters, important to the world building but not critical to Rees and Eros' story. It was hard to keep track of all the names at one point.
I can't wait for the next book in the series. With major world building done, I suspect the next story will be amazing!
PS: More Herma, please more Herma.
Young and beautiful Eros gets a little carried away in the human world and needs to be coaxed back home. Aphrodite sends handsome/geeky Reese, brother of the Muses, to do the job. When the "job" becomes a true romance between Rees and Eros, things start to get interesting, and romantic, and hot.
The strength of this book is in the characters: Eros, Rees, Zephyrus, Herma, Wind Sprites, Shadow... The story is built on an awesome cast of interesting characters that left me wanting more. More Herma? More Zephyrus? Yes, please!
The challenge this story presents is large number of tertiary characters, important to the world building but not critical to Rees and Eros' story. It was hard to keep track of all the names at one point.
I can't wait for the next book in the series. With major world building done, I suspect the next story will be amazing!
PS: More Herma, please more Herma.
October 29, 2016
2016 Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention: The Tenth Muse by Belinda McBride
1) I very much enjoyed the placement of petulant Greek Gods in a modern day environment, with all their strengths, flaws and weaknesses on show. Loved the concept of The Aphrodite Project to bring rogue gods and demigods to heel and I look forward to more developments as the series continues. The writing is engaging and the plot has numerous twists and surprises to keep the reader enthralled. Although it isn't essential to be up to date on who is who in Greek mythology, the author has made me want to revisit some of the classic myths mentioned in the book.
2) A perfect story balancing mythology with an original plot. It kept me riveted as the story unfolded - the mythology was served in easily digested portions - just enough to deepen the plot without overwhelming the story in minutia. The writing itself flowed easily - almost lyrical in style, with a nice unexpected plot twist. So well done.
1) I very much enjoyed the placement of petulant Greek Gods in a modern day environment, with all their strengths, flaws and weaknesses on show. Loved the concept of The Aphrodite Project to bring rogue gods and demigods to heel and I look forward to more developments as the series continues. The writing is engaging and the plot has numerous twists and surprises to keep the reader enthralled. Although it isn't essential to be up to date on who is who in Greek mythology, the author has made me want to revisit some of the classic myths mentioned in the book.
2) A perfect story balancing mythology with an original plot. It kept me riveted as the story unfolded - the mythology was served in easily digested portions - just enough to deepen the plot without overwhelming the story in minutia. The writing itself flowed easily - almost lyrical in style, with a nice unexpected plot twist. So well done.
May 15, 2016
An ARC of this book was provided to me in exchange for an honest review.
At first didn't think it was my type of book. but got into the book with its love story, it intrigue, it multiple Greek Gods. Belinda writes so well that she pulls you into her books so that you just have to know what happen next. love scenes fun, made me smile. starts off with clues but didn't seeing the ending coming love that you become part of story love it five stars
At first didn't think it was my type of book. but got into the book with its love story, it intrigue, it multiple Greek Gods. Belinda writes so well that she pulls you into her books so that you just have to know what happen next. love scenes fun, made me smile. starts off with clues but didn't seeing the ending coming love that you become part of story love it five stars
October 23, 2016
Great book based on Greek mythology characters - I was pleasantly surprised and fully satisfied with the plot, romance and the writing. By the time I finished it, the world it's set in has started feeling like home, and some of the secondary characters are begging for their HEA's too. Can't wait for their stories.
July 16, 2024
This was a fun read. Looking forward to more in the series.
May 6, 2016
An ARC of this book was provided to me in exchange for an honest review.
When Eros does a fashion show where he presents his real wing, his mother, Aphrodite knows she'll have to do damage control by getting Eros to come back to Olympus before the other pantheons take matter into their own hands. But she knows Eros won't come back on his own. So she enlists the help of Rees, her best friend's son. Rees has been feeling listless and is more than willing to act as one of Aphrodite's hunters.
The moment Eros and Rees meet, the two take an immediate liking to each other. Rees is nothing like anyone Eros has encountered and before he knows it Rees is in his every thought. Rees is a bit cautious with his friendship with Eros since he believes Eros is stuck on Rosa, the reincarnation of his beloved wife, Psyche. But Rosa is nothing like Eros beloved Pschye and he finds himself unable to keep away from Rees.
Rees is enjoying his time with Eros and doing set work but fears the day he must confess to Eros. When the truth comes out things look dire. Rees finds himself left alone and in that time he's kidnapped by an unhinged artist. It's up to Eros and the other to figure out who captured Rees and get him back before he succumbs.
I'm really off (not up to date) on my Greek/Roman mythology so I had to do a bit of researching on my own to get the back story for some of the characters in the book since they weren't the focus of the story.
That being said, I really really enjoyed this book. I liked reading Eros and Rees meeting and getting to know each other somewhat. Then being mature enough to state what they expect from their relationship. I liked how all the characters (gods, demi-gods) had a part in their lives and the revelations concerning Herma, Rees and Eros. It was unexpected but a very nice surprise especially in Rees' case. It was very easy to get sucked into this book.
I did have some issues with it though. I thought Eros name in the human word was a bit uninventive. He named himself Eros Stephanopoulos...he introduced his own brother as Herma...I think it would have been easy for any nut to make a comparison to who they were. Ugh, the irony! It was just one of those scenarios to hide in plain sight (made me think of batman and superman >.<)
It was a great story and the ending was sweet. I would recommend it to anyone who love/likes anything to do with Greek/Roman mythology and a story with a good twist.
When Eros does a fashion show where he presents his real wing, his mother, Aphrodite knows she'll have to do damage control by getting Eros to come back to Olympus before the other pantheons take matter into their own hands. But she knows Eros won't come back on his own. So she enlists the help of Rees, her best friend's son. Rees has been feeling listless and is more than willing to act as one of Aphrodite's hunters.
The moment Eros and Rees meet, the two take an immediate liking to each other. Rees is nothing like anyone Eros has encountered and before he knows it Rees is in his every thought. Rees is a bit cautious with his friendship with Eros since he believes Eros is stuck on Rosa, the reincarnation of his beloved wife, Psyche. But Rosa is nothing like Eros beloved Pschye and he finds himself unable to keep away from Rees.
Rees is enjoying his time with Eros and doing set work but fears the day he must confess to Eros. When the truth comes out things look dire. Rees finds himself left alone and in that time he's kidnapped by an unhinged artist. It's up to Eros and the other to figure out who captured Rees and get him back before he succumbs.
I'm really off (not up to date) on my Greek/Roman mythology so I had to do a bit of researching on my own to get the back story for some of the characters in the book since they weren't the focus of the story.
That being said, I really really enjoyed this book. I liked reading Eros and Rees meeting and getting to know each other somewhat. Then being mature enough to state what they expect from their relationship. I liked how all the characters (gods, demi-gods) had a part in their lives and the revelations concerning Herma, Rees and Eros. It was unexpected but a very nice surprise especially in Rees' case. It was very easy to get sucked into this book.
I did have some issues with it though. I thought Eros name in the human word was a bit uninventive. He named himself Eros Stephanopoulos...he introduced his own brother as Herma...I think it would have been easy for any nut to make a comparison to who they were. Ugh, the irony! It was just one of those scenarios to hide in plain sight (made me think of batman and superman >.<)
It was a great story and the ending was sweet. I would recommend it to anyone who love/likes anything to do with Greek/Roman mythology and a story with a good twist.
August 5, 2016
I know nothing of Greek mythology, so trying to figure out all the God/Goddess relationships was a bit complicated, but the author does a good job of explaining everything. Overall, I enjoyed this inventive and amusing story.
September 15, 2020
Loved it 😍
The author did a fantastic job with this book. This is my first book by this author and I wasn't sure what to expect...but it was sooo good.We get all the gods we love and get to hear more about their stories including some twists and turns.
When Eros gets himself in trouble his mother Aphrodite sends the reclusive younger brother of the muses to convince him to come back. But there are secrets that no one knows and they come out. And they shake the foundation of even the gods.
I mean how could you not want to read this book. Loved the development of the characters as well as the side characters. Throught the book you get to learn alot about them and learn they are more than they seem. The author did a fantastic job. I need the next book.
The author did a fantastic job with this book. This is my first book by this author and I wasn't sure what to expect...but it was sooo good.We get all the gods we love and get to hear more about their stories including some twists and turns.
When Eros gets himself in trouble his mother Aphrodite sends the reclusive younger brother of the muses to convince him to come back. But there are secrets that no one knows and they come out. And they shake the foundation of even the gods.
I mean how could you not want to read this book. Loved the development of the characters as well as the side characters. Throught the book you get to learn alot about them and learn they are more than they seem. The author did a fantastic job. I need the next book.
September 21, 2020
I really enjoy when authors take fables, legends, and myths and put a new, modern, or different spin on them. Here, Belinda McBride takes characters from Greek mythology and blends them with a modern setting to create a unique, enchanting, and thoroughly enjoyable new story. I loved Eros and Rees and the development of their love. The story has some twists and surprises, secrets, steamy times, and trouble for the MCs. Great world-building and character development by the author. I am looking forward to more in this series. Come watch the gods play.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 16, 2020
What happens when the god of lust and the tenth muse hook up? Magic.
This book is amazing and I love everything about it. It’s such a clever, intricate, and surprising reworking of mythology into a modern love story. There’s a twist I didn’t see coming (don’t worry, no spoilers).There’s angst, there’s romance, and there’s a ton of allusions to the rich tapestry of Greek gods, heroes, and legends. Eros and Rees work together beautifully. 100% recommend.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book is amazing and I love everything about it. It’s such a clever, intricate, and surprising reworking of mythology into a modern love story. There’s a twist I didn’t see coming (don’t worry, no spoilers).There’s angst, there’s romance, and there’s a ton of allusions to the rich tapestry of Greek gods, heroes, and legends. Eros and Rees work together beautifully. 100% recommend.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 20, 2020
I have always been a fan of mythology and the stories and their lessons so I was really excited to read this book and it did not disappoint. I think what I like best about the gods of Greek mythology is the mix of superhuman gifts and very human tendencies that often made them both fascinating and left me scratching my head with some of the things they did. This author nails that in this story and I especially like that this tale plays out in a modern setting.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 19, 2020
Who doesn't love a Romance for the ages featuring Greek gods and aphrodites. This was so well written. Definitely one of the best books I have read this year. Can't wait for this to become a series or maybe a sequel.
This was very interesting with wonderful characters. A definite recommend.
This was very interesting with wonderful characters. A definite recommend.
October 28, 2018
This was so beautiful. Inspiring. There weren't any boring parts to read. I just teared up upon reading of what happened to the both of them and I'm so glad that they still ended up with each other.
May 1, 2023
This was a fun read - fantasy, romance and the Greek gods.
June 9, 2023
Wonderful book to read!
May 18, 2016
4.5 out of 5 stars
Description ~
Aphrodite has had it.
It was bad enough that her son Eros walked a fashion show in drag, but did he really have to show the entire world his wings? Desperate to rein in the impulsive young god, she recruits the scholarly muse Rees to lure him back to Olympus until the scandal dies down.
After hundreds of years, Eros has finally located the reincarnation of his former love, Psyche. The only way to her heart is through fame, so the God of Love plans a daring campaign to win her back. Yet the closer he gets to Psyche, the more he’s drawn to a geeky young professor who came crashing into his life.
Eros drags Rees into his wicked world of high fashion and risqué parties, only to expose him to danger from an unexpected source. When Rees’ secrets come out, they threaten to destroy Eros’ love for him. Yet when Rees is kidnapped, Eros is forced to turn to the woman who set this catastrophe in motion—his mother, Aphrodite.
My Review ~
The Tenth Muse is the first book in Belinda McBride's new Aphrodite Project.
I must say that this book stole right into my top 20 of 2016. I truly did not expect that when I read the blurb, more because I'm not huge into the fashion world. However my inner Greek Mythology nerd grrrl was seriously happy with the characters and settings along with the backstories and secondary characters.
Speaking of characters I utterly adored Rees and wanted to wrap Eros in his own wings and hug him for days. While the romance for these two characters started out as a charade while Rees watched over Eros so he'd 'behave' watching Rees fall for Eros was sweet..and sexy as hell. Especially with Eros having met his 'soul-mate' as her reincarnated self but knowing that he's not what she needs any longer. Eros is strong to step back and let her spread her own proverbial wings and find the love that is calling to her in this lifetime. He's less inclined to allow himself to fall for Rees, especially since he doesn't know who Rees really is.
The Tenth Muse had some very well planned and well executed twists and turns within the story. It also had a few typical tropes but they were well placed and written as an enhancement to the story instead of just added in because it would move the story forward. While I'd love to share more about the plot there is quite a large part of it that would be a major spoiler. So I let you read for yourself this amazingly well crafted story and get the full effect of the plot twists and turns.
I highly recommend this for anyone that loves their ancient greek and roman mythology. Also any one that loves a little paranormal in their romance, this book would be spot on for you. The characters and the storyline of The Tenth Muse will keep you hooked from page one all the way to the end. I look forward to the next book in the series and seriously hope that it's Eros's brother as one of the main characters.
Description ~
Aphrodite has had it.
It was bad enough that her son Eros walked a fashion show in drag, but did he really have to show the entire world his wings? Desperate to rein in the impulsive young god, she recruits the scholarly muse Rees to lure him back to Olympus until the scandal dies down.
After hundreds of years, Eros has finally located the reincarnation of his former love, Psyche. The only way to her heart is through fame, so the God of Love plans a daring campaign to win her back. Yet the closer he gets to Psyche, the more he’s drawn to a geeky young professor who came crashing into his life.
Eros drags Rees into his wicked world of high fashion and risqué parties, only to expose him to danger from an unexpected source. When Rees’ secrets come out, they threaten to destroy Eros’ love for him. Yet when Rees is kidnapped, Eros is forced to turn to the woman who set this catastrophe in motion—his mother, Aphrodite.
My Review ~
The Tenth Muse is the first book in Belinda McBride's new Aphrodite Project.
I must say that this book stole right into my top 20 of 2016. I truly did not expect that when I read the blurb, more because I'm not huge into the fashion world. However my inner Greek Mythology nerd grrrl was seriously happy with the characters and settings along with the backstories and secondary characters.
Speaking of characters I utterly adored Rees and wanted to wrap Eros in his own wings and hug him for days. While the romance for these two characters started out as a charade while Rees watched over Eros so he'd 'behave' watching Rees fall for Eros was sweet..and sexy as hell. Especially with Eros having met his 'soul-mate' as her reincarnated self but knowing that he's not what she needs any longer. Eros is strong to step back and let her spread her own proverbial wings and find the love that is calling to her in this lifetime. He's less inclined to allow himself to fall for Rees, especially since he doesn't know who Rees really is.
The Tenth Muse had some very well planned and well executed twists and turns within the story. It also had a few typical tropes but they were well placed and written as an enhancement to the story instead of just added in because it would move the story forward. While I'd love to share more about the plot there is quite a large part of it that would be a major spoiler. So I let you read for yourself this amazingly well crafted story and get the full effect of the plot twists and turns.
I highly recommend this for anyone that loves their ancient greek and roman mythology. Also any one that loves a little paranormal in their romance, this book would be spot on for you. The characters and the storyline of The Tenth Muse will keep you hooked from page one all the way to the end. I look forward to the next book in the series and seriously hope that it's Eros's brother as one of the main characters.
May 17, 2016
Independent reviewer for Divine Magazine, I was gifted my copy of this book.
Eros is taking the modelling world by storm. But he showed his wings and his mother Aphrodite has had enough. She sends Rees, a scholar and teacher, brother to the Nine Muses, to convince Eros to pack up from earth and return to Mount Olympus. Eros grows attached to the young man and, dare he say it, falls in love with him. But the Eros discovers what his mother did, and Rees disappears. As much as Eros hates his mother right now, Aphrodite is the only one to can find Rees, so Eros can apologise and attempt to salvage their relationship.
Most of the major characters in this book are Greek Gods and Goddesses. And we get a lot of legends and myths from them. Now, I don't know if I'm not remembering Ancient Greek history correctly, or they appear slightly different here. Regardless, once I turned my remembering off, and I just read the story as a story, so to speak, I enjoyed the book a whole lot more.
Eros has his says, so we get his immediate reaction to Rees when he literally falls into Eros' life. We get Eros' love of Psyche, the woman he has been searching for, for so very long. We get his reaction to finding her, but not liking her and discovering she is in love with another. We get his slowly dawning realisation of what his mother has done, and his utter devastation when he realises Rees is missing.
Rees also has a say, so we get his unsettled feeling in The Fields. We get his growing love for Eros. His awful reaction when he meets she who Eros doesn't like. And we get when he remembers. When EVERYONE remembers.
Its very well written, and flows wonderfully.at a steady pace. I didn't spot a single spelling error.
And I got the whodunnit wrong too! I LOVE being proven wrong, I really do!
It's the first I have read of this author and I would like to read more. This book is billed as book one in the Aphrodite Project. I'd love to be able to follow the series, because I have no idea who might be next. Whether someone else gets a story, or Eros and Rees return for more. I really don't care, I still want to read them.
It does get a little . . . . . .painful, when Rees is remembering, graphically painful and because of this violence, I've filed it on my over 18 shelf.
A really really good read, I thought.
4 solid stars
*same worded review will appear on Goodreads, Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble, and Kobo**
Eros is taking the modelling world by storm. But he showed his wings and his mother Aphrodite has had enough. She sends Rees, a scholar and teacher, brother to the Nine Muses, to convince Eros to pack up from earth and return to Mount Olympus. Eros grows attached to the young man and, dare he say it, falls in love with him. But the Eros discovers what his mother did, and Rees disappears. As much as Eros hates his mother right now, Aphrodite is the only one to can find Rees, so Eros can apologise and attempt to salvage their relationship.
Most of the major characters in this book are Greek Gods and Goddesses. And we get a lot of legends and myths from them. Now, I don't know if I'm not remembering Ancient Greek history correctly, or they appear slightly different here. Regardless, once I turned my remembering off, and I just read the story as a story, so to speak, I enjoyed the book a whole lot more.
Eros has his says, so we get his immediate reaction to Rees when he literally falls into Eros' life. We get Eros' love of Psyche, the woman he has been searching for, for so very long. We get his reaction to finding her, but not liking her and discovering she is in love with another. We get his slowly dawning realisation of what his mother has done, and his utter devastation when he realises Rees is missing.
Rees also has a say, so we get his unsettled feeling in The Fields. We get his growing love for Eros. His awful reaction when he meets she who Eros doesn't like. And we get when he remembers. When EVERYONE remembers.
Its very well written, and flows wonderfully.at a steady pace. I didn't spot a single spelling error.
And I got the whodunnit wrong too! I LOVE being proven wrong, I really do!
It's the first I have read of this author and I would like to read more. This book is billed as book one in the Aphrodite Project. I'd love to be able to follow the series, because I have no idea who might be next. Whether someone else gets a story, or Eros and Rees return for more. I really don't care, I still want to read them.
It does get a little . . . . . .painful, when Rees is remembering, graphically painful and because of this violence, I've filed it on my over 18 shelf.
A really really good read, I thought.
4 solid stars
*same worded review will appear on Goodreads, Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble, and Kobo**
May 20, 2016
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie in exchange for a fair and honest review. ***
Eros, the God of Love, has found his late wife's reincarnation and to be close to her, he becomes a model. When his antics during a televised show draw attraction from his mother, Aphrodite, she hires the son of her best friend to help her rein in her impetuous son, before Ares, the God of War intervenes.
Eros is disenchanted by Rosalinda, Psyche's current reincarnation, who is the ultimate party girl, addicted to drugs and trying to get over her love for her childhood sweetheart and her confusion over what Eros makes her feel, and so when Eros meets Rees, the innocent geeky scholar that he crashes into, he just can't stop the attraction that blooms between them.
But Rees has a secret, and when Eros finds out what it is, he won't be happy. But that all will take a backstep when Rees life is threatened by an unlikely source.
Rees was absolutely adorable and so much more complex than I thought at first. I wanted to strangle Eros a few times, but his behavior was somewhat understandable due to the circumstances. Together they were electric and they were just perfect for one another. The secondary characters were well developed and quite likable for the most part. The villain was scary and while there are some parts where rape, death and kidnapping are mentioned, it's not done in an overly graphic manner.
This book was amazing! A fantastic blend of mythology and contemporary romance that I couldn't get enough of and couldn't put down until I finished, because I just had to find out what was going to happen. It was fun, interesting, filled with intriguing twists and turns that kept me guessing, with a fabulous array of characters—both belonging to the Greek mythology and to the author's mind—and while there was a lot of backstory, I never felt as if I was in a History class. All in all, a definitely recommendable read and one that I'll surely read again sometime in the future.
Rating: 5 Stars!!!
Eros, the God of Love, has found his late wife's reincarnation and to be close to her, he becomes a model. When his antics during a televised show draw attraction from his mother, Aphrodite, she hires the son of her best friend to help her rein in her impetuous son, before Ares, the God of War intervenes.
Eros is disenchanted by Rosalinda, Psyche's current reincarnation, who is the ultimate party girl, addicted to drugs and trying to get over her love for her childhood sweetheart and her confusion over what Eros makes her feel, and so when Eros meets Rees, the innocent geeky scholar that he crashes into, he just can't stop the attraction that blooms between them.
But Rees has a secret, and when Eros finds out what it is, he won't be happy. But that all will take a backstep when Rees life is threatened by an unlikely source.
Rees was absolutely adorable and so much more complex than I thought at first. I wanted to strangle Eros a few times, but his behavior was somewhat understandable due to the circumstances. Together they were electric and they were just perfect for one another. The secondary characters were well developed and quite likable for the most part. The villain was scary and while there are some parts where rape, death and kidnapping are mentioned, it's not done in an overly graphic manner.
This book was amazing! A fantastic blend of mythology and contemporary romance that I couldn't get enough of and couldn't put down until I finished, because I just had to find out what was going to happen. It was fun, interesting, filled with intriguing twists and turns that kept me guessing, with a fabulous array of characters—both belonging to the Greek mythology and to the author's mind—and while there was a lot of backstory, I never felt as if I was in a History class. All in all, a definitely recommendable read and one that I'll surely read again sometime in the future.
Rating: 5 Stars!!!
October 5, 2016
I received a copy from the publisher in return for an honest review.
I binged read this book, finished it in a day, and couldn't even remember what the book I was reading before this one was about. This is just a perfect story.
Books usually surprise me, intrigue me or make me so mad at them, but this one just enchanted me (maybe the gods had something to do with it)
The writing is really good, and the way the story was weaved made for a deeply rich, colorful and sorrowful story that I can't help but love.
The main characters are perfect, they have unique personalities and so much depth that you are able to grasp their motives, their struggle and objectives. My heart broke many times for the suffering of the couple. Apart from the main couple, we have a rich set of secondary characters, each unique and enthralling in their own right. Giving complexity to the plot.
Something that I really liked about this story is that they're multiple storylines intertwined with the main one, but it doesn't interfere but complements it enough to leave you intrigued about those characters' stories.
I just loved this story as a whole, there was heartbreak, there was sorrow, there was love, and two impossibly different characters that complemented each other so well I couldn't help but encourage them. Also, the mythological aspect and the author's own twists to it brought the story to a different level.
I just have so many things to say, but I feel like I don't have enough words to describe them. It was a great read. (Eros <3 Reese)
This is my first M/M story and I 'm glad this book broke me into the genre. Definitely looking for other works by the author and of this genre.
I binged read this book, finished it in a day, and couldn't even remember what the book I was reading before this one was about. This is just a perfect story.
Books usually surprise me, intrigue me or make me so mad at them, but this one just enchanted me (maybe the gods had something to do with it)
The writing is really good, and the way the story was weaved made for a deeply rich, colorful and sorrowful story that I can't help but love.
The main characters are perfect, they have unique personalities and so much depth that you are able to grasp their motives, their struggle and objectives. My heart broke many times for the suffering of the couple. Apart from the main couple, we have a rich set of secondary characters, each unique and enthralling in their own right. Giving complexity to the plot.
Something that I really liked about this story is that they're multiple storylines intertwined with the main one, but it doesn't interfere but complements it enough to leave you intrigued about those characters' stories.
I just loved this story as a whole, there was heartbreak, there was sorrow, there was love, and two impossibly different characters that complemented each other so well I couldn't help but encourage them. Also, the mythological aspect and the author's own twists to it brought the story to a different level.
I just have so many things to say, but I feel like I don't have enough words to describe them. It was a great read. (Eros <3 Reese)
This is my first M/M story and I 'm glad this book broke me into the genre. Definitely looking for other works by the author and of this genre.
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