Icarus Rising

by N.W. Moors

After his fall to Earth, Icarus has been in Hell, punished for his hubris. When he wins a chance at parole, he's thrilled - except for the set of wings attached to his body.

Eve Gregory runs a small bookstore in northern Connecticut. When she hires the handsome stranger to work for her, she doesn't know the secrets he's hiding. Or that becoming involved with him will embroil her with the Greek gods and goddesses.

Icarus and Eve must perform a quest set down for them by Zeus. If they are successful, will that be end of their relationship? Or will love teach them a new way to soar?

Genres: Romance, Retellings

210 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 6, 2016

About the author

N.W. Moors lives in Portland, Maine, the land of lobster and pine trees. She grew up in Connecticut and retired north(it's nice along the coast in winter). She's a voracious reader and avid traveler - she loves to visit Great Britain and Ireland. Researching trips meant that she tries to learn as much about the area as possible and listen to great Celtic music. She's also a knitter and hiker/walker with two cats(the cats don't walk).

She truly appreciates you sharing this adventure with her. She will continue to write about magic, love, and the small town of Antrim, Maine. Please leave reviews and like her Facebook page or follow her blog or twitter feed for further updates.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AntrimCycle
Blog: http://antrimcycle.blogspot.com/

Reviews

[Carrie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Icarus has spent years being trapped in Hell as punishment when he's finally given the chance at parole. He's given the opportunity to return to the human world to live as a man but he will keep his wings as punishment during his time on Earth although they will be hidden.

Upon his return Icarus meets Eve Gregory who offers him a room to rent where the two form a relationship. Eve soon finds herself discovering Icarus's secrets and becoming involved with him requires her to help complete a quest for Zeus.

I was a bit back and forth on Icarus Rising. The story is one that I tend to enjoy with making up a fictional tale based on mythology and characters we've all heard about before when it comes to the Gods and the legends surrounding them. But this one also seemed a bit rushed through when you consider how quickly Icarus and Eve became involved and set out on their quest. Found it a bit hard to really become fully invested in the characters and story with it being a shorter read with so much going on.

Overall, even with a few hesitations with this one it was still an enjoyable read based on mythology with the Greek gods and goddesses.

I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....

[Debby Taylor-Lane · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you enjoy Greek Mythology and/or Romance, this is definitely a book for you.

Thankfully, the only thing this has in common with Gaiman's works are the Gods. I am the minority that does not enjoy his books but I found Icarus Rising to be an intriguingly and unique way of incorporating Greek Mythology with twenty first century humans.

A well researched and beautifully written book. One that will transport you around Europe and teach you mythology whilst 'forcing' you to turn the pages.

I am definitely going to buy book 2.

[Kayla Krantz · Rating 5 out of 5]

After being released from Hell, Icarus’ punishment never seems to end. With Artemis and Apollo always on his heels, he can’t stay in one place for too long. With Athena’s help, he finds his way to a small town to once again start over, and it’s here that he meets Eve. With a job, a home, and a love interest falling into his lap, things seem almost perfect for Icarus…until Artemis and Apollo step in to cause trouble once again which thrusts Eve and Icarus onto a journey to find The Golden Fleece.

I loved this spin on mythology. The characters were all very well written, Athena especially. Her sarcasm was probably my favorite part. Even though this is a romance story, it isn’t overbearing with the love elements. It happens gradually making for a very amusing read from start to finish. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good adventure novel with a bit of romance on the side.

[A Hopeless Romantic's Booklandia · Rating 4 out of 5]

The cover and especially the title were the first things about Icarus Rising that grabbed me. I am big lover of Greek Mythology and anytime I find a book based on it, I jump at the chance to read it and Icarus Rising was no different! I was so excited not only because of that but also because Icarus was the hero and I'd never thought about him having his story before beyond what we know about him, that is. I'm so glad that Ms. Moors decided to write a story about him though because I really enjoyed getting to know him and his story in general!

Eve is my kind of girl! She loves to read and has her own bookstore - what more can a bookworm ask for in her heroine?! I would have loved her even if she hadn't had one though just because of who she is. Eve is kind and sweet, but don't fear because she has a little fiery side to her too. For the most part though, she has an open mind and she doesn't judge Icarus, you know, she just accepts him and loves him anyway. Eve really is lovely and I loved her.

Icarus is such a great hero - he's kind and genuine and calm. He's solid like a rock, you can count on him and you don't have to worry about him with your heart or anything. Icarus is a good man, he's safe and protective, and I loved him just as much as I loved Eve!

I've said it once, but I'll say it again - I really enjoyed reading Icarus Rising! I not only loved getting to see Icarus' story, but I loved the way Ms. Moors portrayed the other gods and goddesses. Usually, I end up hating some of them and while I certainly disliked a couple in the beginning, I truly liked them by the end, so that was a new experience for me and I'm happy it happened. And while I love my passion and steam, I liked how Icarus Rising was more about Icarus and Eve's relationship and their adventure and struggles together. It was an excellent read, I loved it, and I'm excited to read the next book in Ms. Moors' series!

Icarus Rising is the first book in the Second Chances series, it's told from Icarus and Eve's POV, and they do get their happily-ever-after.

~ Sonja, 4 Stars

[Carrie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Wow - what a great start to a new series! I couldn't put this book down! If you are into paranormal romance, this one will knock your socks off!

Icarus (who we all know from high school mythology reading, right?) has done his time in hell for his mistakes. He finally gets "forgiven" and sent to Earth only to discover that maybe not all the gods agree with his release. Every time he gets comfortable, Artemis and Apollo show up to ruin whatever life he has started building for himself. At Athena's recommendation, he ends up in a small town staring at a help wanted sign for the bookstore/coffee shop. Seems simple enough, right? Start over and make a life (again), hopefully avoiding more meddling gods.

Eve is the owner of the bookstore and she is in desperate need of an employee. Icarus (or Russ) is exactly who she needs - someone independent who is happy to work and learn. These two hit it off right away, but don't quite realize they've hit the jackpot until pushed together by Eve's horrible ex and Athena. Once together, there's really nothing they can't accomplish. Even when tasked with an impossible quest, these two put their heads together to solve one of the oldest mysteries. The true selling point of this book was the relationship between Icarus and Eve. They were my absolute favorite and kept me rapidly rooting for them every step of the way. I can't wait to see what else this author delivers as part of this series!

[Randy Harmelink · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this play with mythology quite a bit. The story was well written. The characters were well developed. And the story was a lot of fun. Although I did enjoy the first half of the book more, because of the introduction of the characters. I felt a connection to almost every character very quickly. Much more so that many other books I've read. I WANTED to read more about them. I'm looking forward to more of this series.

[Lori Murray · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book Tour Review that I am Involved with. Paranormal Romance Date Published: 9/6/16 Publisher: Sunday Morning Publishing
 
After his fall to Earth, Icarus has been in Hell, punished for his hubris. When he wins a chance at parole, he's thrilled - except for the set of wings attached to his body. Eve Gregory runs a small bookstore in northern Connecticut. When she hires the handsome stranger to work for her, she doesn't know the secrets he's hiding. Or that becoming involved with him will embroil her with the Greek gods and goddesses. Icarus and Eve must perform a quest set down for them by Zeus. If they are successful, will that be end of their relationship? Or will love teach them a new way to soar?
 
Excerpt for the book.
 
The imp had come to him where he sat on a pile of stones, watching Sisyphus roll his rock uphill unceasingly. Icarus had found that once he was used to his wings, boredom was his biggest torment in Hell. There was nothing to do. He did not delight in the suffering of others, and there was no other entertainment.The little imp had bowed, then said in a high squeaky voice, "My lord, Hades, wishes you to attend him at once."Icarus did not react. Better to not let the demon know how astounded he was by the summons. Instead, he stood up and followed the creature through the tunnels and caverns back to Hades' great hall.He was bewildered when they bypassed the entrance of the Great Hall to instead pass through a tunnel where Hades and Persephone had their private apartments. The Queen of the Underworld was only there six months of the year, but Icarus had seen her from a distance. She was beautiful but sad-looking. Icarus wasn't sure if it were better or worse to be able to leave Hell for six months of the year. Still, it was something different he could spend hours pondering to waste more time.The imp paused before a door and stepped aside to allow Icarus to enter. He did so with some trepidation and found a comfortable sitting area. There was a table that held the remains of a meal and brightly-colored flowers adorned a vase. Persephone must be in residence.He waited near the door, sweat running down his back between his feathered appendages. While this room was cooler than most parts of Hell in deference to its Queen, it was still warm. And he was nervous.Icarus startled when Hades walked into the room from an entrance tucked in a corner. He hummed to himself; the pleasant sound eased some of Icarus' dread. Hades straightened up and smirked when he saw Icarus. He poured some wine into a goblet and sipped at the cup, licking a red droplet from the rim. He did not offer any to Icarus, who, though dead, still felt his mouth dry in a memory of thirst. Hades found his chair and sat, took another drink, then put the cup down precisely in front of him. He leaned forward and placed his chin on his fist, studying Icarus for a few long minutes. Hades did not speak during the entire performance.Finally, he crossed his hands over his stomach. "Your father, Daedalus, has asked a boon of my brother, Zeus."He paused again, obviously enjoying the suspense. Icarus refused to give him the pleasure he sought, so he kept his face impassive and waited, struggling not to give any sign of his shock and curiosity.Hades rolled his eyes, then continued. "Your father is a favorite of my brother. He has created many amusements for Zeus over the years with his various inventions." Hades shrugged, picked up his goblet, then put the cup back again. He slid a long finger around the rim of the cup, round and round. His behavior made Icarus anxious; it wasn't like the Lord of the Underworld to be so hesitant."Your father has requested your parole, and Zeus has decreed that the time for your punishment is over. You have spent over two millennia in Hell with great patience and forbearance. So you are to be released." Hades raised his hand palm out when Icarus gave an involuntary jerk at the words. "There are conditions.""Yes, my Lord," Icarus croaked. The dryness had spread from his mouth down his throat. There was a roaring in his ears, and Icarus felt like he might heave up the contents of his stomach if there was anything left in his nonliving body."You will be returned to Earth as a living being. Athena has agreed to give you knowledge of the modern world to help you assimilate. The manner in which people live today has changed considerably since your previous time on Earth.""Thank you, my lord." He started to bow but stopped when Hades spoke once more."That is not all. Your wings."Icarus's eyes widened in amazement. If he were to live among men once more, he would not be able to keep his wings. Perhaps Hades thought he would miss them, but it was not so. He hated them, the symbol of his downfall, and couldn't wait to get rid of them. Icarus would gladly give them up. So he was shocked at Hades' next words."You will keep the wings as a reminder of your transgression. Accommodation will be made so that the wings fold into your body, but you will have them as a constant memory of your sin against Apollo. It will set you apart from other men, even if only in your own mind. Do you agree to these conditions?"Icarus did not hesitate. "Yes, my lord." He would reconcile himself to the hated wings for the chance to live as a man once more.Hades nodded. "Then your father's boon is granted." He flicked a finger, and Icarus was assaulted with pain he had not felt since the wings had been added to his body. He fell to his hands and knees as his back was split once more and the wings folded inside his torso. He trembled with the shock, but the pain continued as his long dormant heart started beating once more. The agony of his body coming back to life was unbelievable, but he bore it. Long minutes passed until the torment finally ceased. He lay on the floor, sweating, and his renewed body ached from its rejuvenation.When Icarus finally pushed himself up on his knees, Hades spoke again. "You now have what appears to be a long ridge of scar tissue on each side of your spine." Hades shrugged. "Explain them however you please if another human is curious. But the wings will appear when you need them and contract back into their compartments when you have finished with them."Icarus clenched his fists but finally managed to get his legs underneath him and stood erect. His body felt odd without the weight of the wings dragging at his shoulders. Icarus grimly promised himself that they would never be freed from their compartment unless there was a dire need.
 
My Review
 
I really loved Eve and Icarus relationship and thought they made a very cute couple. I really never knew much about Icarus history before reading this book. After reading the book I went online to read more about him and his father Daedalos. It was very interesting to me, I really love reading books on Greek mythology and seeing how closely authors stay true to the original.
I love reading about Hades, Zeus, etc. I loved the characters a whole lot in this book they had such people from Greek mythology like I mentioned above. Also such other ones like the Goddess Athena and Artemis, just to name a few more.
I give the book 4 out of 5 stars. I really enjoyed the plot, characters, just wish I could have gotten more involved in the book sooner. While it started out slow for me once it took off I was never bored that is for sure. 
I am so glad I took part in the book tour for this book it was a lot of fun. I am so glad I meet Eve, Icarus, and everyone they meet along the way. 
 
 
 
 
N.W. Moors lives in Portland, Maine, the land of lobster and pine trees. She grew up in Connecticut and retired north(it's nice along the coast in winter). She's a voracious reader and avid traveler - she loves to visit Great Britain and Ireland. Researching trips meant that she tries to learn as much about the area as possible and listen to great Celtic music. She's also a knitter and hiker/walker with two cats(the cats don't walk). She truly appreciates you sharing this adventure with her. She will continue to write about magic, love, and the small town of Antrim, Maine. Please leave reviews and like her Facebook page or follow her blog or twitter feed for further updates.
 
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[Ajax Minor · Rating 4 out of 5]

So do you like mythology? Particularly Greek mythology? And did you like American Gods by Neil Gaiman? How about American Gods with a smile? How about Romance? If your answer to any of these questions is YES then you should read Icarus Rising by N.W.Moors. And if you didn't answer YES you may still want to read the book. You might develop a new fondness for myth and legend.

In the original story, Daedalus, an inventor, angers King Minos and has to get his butt out of Crete. So he invents a pair of wings which contain wax. He tells his son, Icarus, to fly at a 'middle height'; not too close to the sea or his wings will become damp and heavy and he will plunge into it and not to high otherwise the sun will melt the wax. Well, Icarus is the typical boneheaded kid and gets cocky, flies too high, the sun melts the wax on his wings and he plummets to his death in the sea. Later Daedalus builds a temple to the sun god, Apollo.

Well, Moors puts a twist in the story and it turns out Apollo holds a grudge against Icarus' arrogance, as does his sister Artemis, goddess of the moon. He is forced to suffer a set of wings that pop out of and back into his body in a painful process. What makes them POP? That's part of the fun of the story so you'll have to read it! Anyway, poor Icarus wanders around Hades for a few millennia but then is given a 'Second Chance', is sprung from Hades and lands in the 21st century. After that things get very interesting. But nobody likes spoilers and when I review I avoid synopses. You can go to Amazon for that, so let's talk about the book and the writing.

Moors' prose is clean, clear and direct. It is especially fun to see how the ancient Greek gods, Apollo, Athena and Artemis deal with life in our century. The characters develop. And for those of you who have followed my blogs, you will know that I believe it is not plot or character alone that drive a story but rather character development. Character development not only drives a story but is a mark of good writing. And it isn't only the gods that grow but also Icarus and a young lady and bookstore owner in Devon, CT by the name of Eve.

Which means there is some romance too. Now I am not an aficionado of Romance, but I know it when I see it. And the romance is fun. As a matter of full disclosure, while I do not read romance I'm a Hallmark movie addict. So when I say there is some romance in this tale I think I know what I'm talking about!

If I had one quibble with the storyline it is that I would like Icarus (aka Russ) and Eve to have found themselves in one more really bad jam. But I won't quibble. I'll just tell you to buy the book.

Oh, and I should say that Icarus Rising is the first book in the Second Chances series. I like second chances, as is evidenced by my own fantasies, written under the name Ajax Minor, and the next book will have a protagonist that is especially near and dear to me. So enjoy Icarus and save some room for Book Two!

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

A really cute romance and a great new addition to the legend of Icarus that continues his story after his famous fall. Icarus's actions of flying too close to the sun had angered the god Apollo who condemned Icarus to spend eternity in Hell overseen by Hades. After many centuries Zeus has offered Icarus a reprieve but Hades adds a stipulation, Icarus must always wear the wings that caused his fall. Icarus now called Russ despite being aided by the goddess Athena has had a hard time returning to earth, he can form no lasting friendships with anyone and he definitely cannot have a lover because of his wings. Russ is also still being persecuted by Apollo and Artemis who appear every time he tries to start a new life and ruin it for him until he is forced to move on once more. Now Russ is finally happy and working in a small bookstore owned by a women named Eve and while they both try to deny it they can feel a bond forming between them and it’s not long before they are sharing Eve’s apartment over the book store. But then Artemis shows up to make Russ’s life miserable again when she attacks Eve and forces Icarus to reveal his wings to save her. Instead of the rebuff that Russ expects from Eve she tells him her true feelings for him and the two make love. When they wake in the morning they are transported to Olympus where Artemis says that the two attacked her and that they must be punished. With her mother Hera on her side Zeus is forced to punish the couple by giving Eve wings to match Icarus’s but he also give them the option of finding the missing Golden Fleece in exchange for remove both their wings so they can live a normal life. While Russ and Eve go to look for the fleece Artemis and Athena are tasked by Zeus to run Eve’s bookshop where Artemis finds she really likes to bake and Athena is really good at running the store. With the aid of Apollo, Russ and Eve find the fleece, return it to Zeus who removes their wings and they all live happily ever after with the two sister goddesses helping out in the bookstore and living next door. I was given this book in exchange for an honest review and I must say I loved it and I look forward to reading more of the books in the second chances series and the Antrim cycles.

[Kimmie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book and N.W Mores twist on mythology. This
book is well written and has a great premise. I cannot wait
to read more from her.

This book is about Icarus as you can probably tell from the
title. But what you do not know as for two millennia he has
been serving Hades for his penance. But his father has been
with Zeus as long and asked for his son’s parole. Hades has
agreed to this with one stipulation. He will keep his wings,
but they will be hidden. Then there is one other problem he
must face. Appolo has not forgiven Icaras for his
transgression. And at every turn he and his brother Artimis
make plans to ruin his life on earth anu way they can. Only
they did not count on Athena. She feels two millennia is long
enough and sets out to help him. So after 5 years they may
just be an answer to begin his life over and that is one
spunky human who owns a coffee and books store. Eve
gives him a job and a place to live that just so happens to be
her roommate. She just wished he was interested in her.
So Athena comes back to give them that little push. And of
all places she takes them is a bowling alley. It just gets better
from there. Now if he can only protect her and make Apollo
happy so he will let him be.

Now before I ruin this for you I will leave off here. I hope you
enjoy this book as much as I did. If you do like this book,
please consider leaving a review. The Authors really like it
when you do; they value your opinions too.

[Jessica Bronder · Rating 4 out of 5]

Icarus has finally been released from Hell after serving his time. But Apollo and Artemis don’t agree with his release. Icarus is on earth but every time things start to be going well for him, Apollo and Artemis have to mess it up. Icarus is giving a tip from Athena to head to a small town in which he finds a small bookshop and Eve.

Eve gives Icarus a job and a place to stay, but she is drug into his life when she learns the truth about his past. Even and Icarus are on a quest for the golden fleece. Together they face the challenges from Apollo and Artemis.

This is a cute take on the Icarus legend. I loved following the different Gods and Goddesses. Icarus is trying to pick up the pieces of his life but is not going to get the chance with Apollo and Artemis harassing him. Eve is just a sweetie and I was glad to see that they started a relationship. This is a quick read and I do hope to read more from N.W. Moors in the future.

I received Icarus Rising from Reading Addiction Virtual Blog Tours for free. This is in no way influenced my opinion of this book.

[Anna Swedenmom · Rating 4 out of 5]

A definite buy book if you are in to mythology of goddesses.
This is a definite new type of genre for my reading. I was impressed with the flow of the writing. I can say that while it is not my norm for reading, I was engrossed into the story and the characters. It is somewhat of a quest.... somewhat of a chick vibe reading. However, while this is not my normal reading, I enjoyed it! I have to take off for some of the repetitiveness and the way it felt rushed at times.

All in all ... a good read for those that like this type of story. A writer that that will paint pictures in your mind and has you engrossed in the plot and characters. I was given this book in return for an honest review. Anna Swedenmom

[Christine · Rating 4 out of 5]

I knew immediately by the description that Icarus Rising by N.W. Moors was a book I'd fall in love with. I love anything to do with mythology, especially greek, so to have a story heavily revolve around those myths, I was more than please. And despite a few things, I wasn't disappointed with the outcome.

Read the rest of my review at Fictional Sunday

[K · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received a this book from the author for an honest review through LibraryThing's Member Giveaways. Overall, it was an enjoyable story. Some of the writing was repetitive and seemed to rush from event to event, and could have taken more time to develop the characters. The plot itself and some of the twists were inventive and fun to read.

[Rosann · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very tough to rate this one. Two thirds of the book I very much enjoyed. The storytelling, the characters had me avidly following. But the latter part of the book with its quest-like course-change, left me cold. It just didn't seem to go with the previous story.

[Maha Erwin · Rating 3 out of 5]

ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest review

An interesting spin on the tale of Icarus. Romantic and sweet romance. A shame the dialogue sounded forced.

[D.E.]

Review to follow