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Elysium Legacies #1
Shades of the Gods
Caught between life and death, all Callie wants is to live again.
Homicide detective Callie Saunders knows that death isn’t all pearly gates and angels. After being hit by a bus, she finds that it's the ancient gods and goddesses of Greek mythology who are in charge of everything.
So when Hades offers her a deal, she accepts. If she wants to be brought back to life, she’ll have to figure out who is trying to kill his son. But if she fails, both her soul and the world will be destroyed.
With the odds mounting against her, it’ll take everything she has within her to wake up from death. But the rules are constantly changing. And someone wants her to stay dead.
(This book was formerly titled Death is but a Dream. The covers and titles have changed for The Elysium Legacies, but the content is still the same.)
Homicide detective Callie Saunders knows that death isn’t all pearly gates and angels. After being hit by a bus, she finds that it's the ancient gods and goddesses of Greek mythology who are in charge of everything.
So when Hades offers her a deal, she accepts. If she wants to be brought back to life, she’ll have to figure out who is trying to kill his son. But if she fails, both her soul and the world will be destroyed.
With the odds mounting against her, it’ll take everything she has within her to wake up from death. But the rules are constantly changing. And someone wants her to stay dead.
(This book was formerly titled Death is but a Dream. The covers and titles have changed for The Elysium Legacies, but the content is still the same.)
414 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2013
165 people are currently reading
1269 people want to read
About the author
Erin Hayes
102 books527 followersSci-fi junkie, video game nerd, and wannabe manga artist Erin Hayes writes a lot of things. Sometimes she writes books.
She works as an advertising copywriter by day, and she's a New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author by night. She has lived in New Zealand, Hawaii, Texas, Alabama, and now San Francisco with her husband, cat, and a growing collection of geek paraphernalia.
You can reach her at erinhayesbooks@gmail.com and she’ll be happy to chat. Especially if you want to debate Star Wars.
She works as an advertising copywriter by day, and she's a New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author by night. She has lived in New Zealand, Hawaii, Texas, Alabama, and now San Francisco with her husband, cat, and a growing collection of geek paraphernalia.
You can reach her at erinhayesbooks@gmail.com and she’ll be happy to chat. Especially if you want to debate Star Wars.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
February 8, 2014
3.5 stars
So Callie is a detective on the police force. Evidently, she was on the trail of a powerful bad guy, and because of all of his connections he managed to not only escape justice, but get her suspended for trying to take him down. This becomes an important plot point later, so pay attention to it.
Ok. Full disclosure time.
I don't find cops sexy. At all.
In fact, my kids all knew their Miranda rights by the time they were in the second grade.
Why?
Because I don't think that the creme of the crop goes into law enforcement.
Potentially, this is because I've lived the majority of my life in places where the Good Old Boy system is firmly in place.
Or possibly it's because every doofus I ever went to high school with became a cop.
Either way, I know my perception is skewed and jaded.
And before you ask...no. I've never been arrested.
Anyway.
Are there good police officers out there who care, and do their job?
Yes.
Like the mythical unicorn, I believe that they exist...
Callie jumps in front of a bus to save a kid, and ends up getting squished in the process. When she wakes up in the Underworld, she's informed that there's been a mistake.
The kid was supposed to die.
Not only that, but she isn't really dead yet. Just in a coma.
So Hades offers her a deal. If she can act like a bodyguard to his son, Plutus, and find out who is trying to kill him, Hades will restore her to life. Otherwise, she's stuck.
Now, the first part of the book is set in the Underworld, and I enjoyed it quite a bit. The different gods and mythological creatures were interesting, and Callie's reaction to being there was entertaining.
The last bit of the book was set in our world, and that part of the story was where the author sort of lost me. It wasn't bad, it just didn't have the same cool flavor.
As I mentioned above, I may have some prejudices that kept me from believing that Callie was a bad-ass. However, if CSI and David Caruso turn your crank, you might enjoy the tough-girl cop aspect of the story more than I did.
The ending gives you a HEA of sorts, but it leaves enough wiggle room for another book.
All in all, this was not a bad way to spend my afternoon.
So Callie is a detective on the police force. Evidently, she was on the trail of a powerful bad guy, and because of all of his connections he managed to not only escape justice, but get her suspended for trying to take him down. This becomes an important plot point later, so pay attention to it.
Ok. Full disclosure time.
I don't find cops sexy. At all.
In fact, my kids all knew their Miranda rights by the time they were in the second grade.
Why?
Because I don't think that the creme of the crop goes into law enforcement.
Potentially, this is because I've lived the majority of my life in places where the Good Old Boy system is firmly in place.
Or possibly it's because every doofus I ever went to high school with became a cop.
Either way, I know my perception is skewed and jaded.
And before you ask...no. I've never been arrested.
Anyway.
Are there good police officers out there who care, and do their job?
Yes.
Like the mythical unicorn, I believe that they exist...
Callie jumps in front of a bus to save a kid, and ends up getting squished in the process. When she wakes up in the Underworld, she's informed that there's been a mistake.
The kid was supposed to die.
Not only that, but she isn't really dead yet. Just in a coma.
So Hades offers her a deal. If she can act like a bodyguard to his son, Plutus, and find out who is trying to kill him, Hades will restore her to life. Otherwise, she's stuck.
Now, the first part of the book is set in the Underworld, and I enjoyed it quite a bit. The different gods and mythological creatures were interesting, and Callie's reaction to being there was entertaining.
The last bit of the book was set in our world, and that part of the story was where the author sort of lost me. It wasn't bad, it just didn't have the same cool flavor.
As I mentioned above, I may have some prejudices that kept me from believing that Callie was a bad-ass. However, if CSI and David Caruso turn your crank, you might enjoy the tough-girl cop aspect of the story more than I did.
The ending gives you a HEA of sorts, but it leaves enough wiggle room for another book.
All in all, this was not a bad way to spend my afternoon.
November 26, 2025
Jumping in front of a bus to save a small child wasn't such a bad way to die. But when it wasn't your time, you kind of mess up the “big plan”. Homicide Detective Callie Saunders has just been called to Hades' office, and he is about to offer a deal she really can't turn down. She must figure out who is trying to kill his son or die forever trying.
Erin Hayes writes an extremely imaginative and quite original tale of gods, goddesses, and life after death. Sucked into the Greek mythology and Hades' underworld, I found Death Is But A Dream a one-stop read. Yes, I didn't want to put this gem down. I'm a mythology fan and Death is but a Dream just flat out hit the spot! I always love the games, plot,s and machinations of the gods. When you add a spicy, resourceful heroin like Callie, it makes for a winning read.
I received a copy of Death is but a Dream from Erin Hayes and Xpresso Book Tours in exchange for an honest review.
Erin Hayes writes an extremely imaginative and quite original tale of gods, goddesses, and life after death. Sucked into the Greek mythology and Hades' underworld, I found Death Is But A Dream a one-stop read. Yes, I didn't want to put this gem down. I'm a mythology fan and Death is but a Dream just flat out hit the spot! I always love the games, plot,s and machinations of the gods. When you add a spicy, resourceful heroin like Callie, it makes for a winning read.
I received a copy of Death is but a Dream from Erin Hayes and Xpresso Book Tours in exchange for an honest review.
March 16, 2017
I have to say that this book is great work. With a twist of Greek mythology, romance, and suspense this book really kept me entertained.
I will be honest I completely fell head over heals in love with Plutus. Callie was also a great character I could easily connect with. She was selfless, and it landed her in the underworld and got her a very unexpected job.
This book is not only kind of a crime mystery, but also a book filled with love and compassion, not only that but it really shows just how true love actually works. This book proves that love isn't always about appearance, or physical strength, but that love runs much deeper than that. For that reason I ended up really being able to say that I really loved this book.
I received a free ARC copy of this book. I voluntarily chose to review. I was under no obligation to review this book.
I will be honest I completely fell head over heals in love with Plutus. Callie was also a great character I could easily connect with. She was selfless, and it landed her in the underworld and got her a very unexpected job.
This book is not only kind of a crime mystery, but also a book filled with love and compassion, not only that but it really shows just how true love actually works. This book proves that love isn't always about appearance, or physical strength, but that love runs much deeper than that. For that reason I ended up really being able to say that I really loved this book.
I received a free ARC copy of this book. I voluntarily chose to review. I was under no obligation to review this book.
October 8, 2013
This was a totally engrossing and enjoyable story for me. I admit I wanted to read it for the Greek mythology angle of the story. I am fascinated my Greek mythology, but often reading it is very dry for me. So when I find Greek mythology written into a novelized story, I am always interested in checking it out.
This book reminds me a bit of a grown up Percy Jackson, The Lightning Thief, type of book. I read The Lightning Thief because of its Greek Mythology angle, but have yet to read any of the other books in that series because while they are enjoyable, they are honestly for a younger audience. This book is a more mature young adult novel, with some romance in the story, and even a little sex. A more mature story for a more mature audience.
Many character of Greek mythology make appearances in this book, from the well know to the lesser known. I admit that I now have three classics of Greek mythology in my to-read pile because I want to learn more about characters in this story that I didn't know about before. I now want to read Plutus by Aristophanes, as Plutus is the main male romantic lead in this book, so now I am curious to find out what his classic Greek story is. I also now want to read Oedipus Rexand Antigone by Sophocles, because I really enjoyed the prophet and seer Tiresias in this book, (he appears as a dread locked Jamaican) and now want to read what his classic portrayal is in those books.
I also admit I loved the character of Tisiphone in this book. The main female character in the book, Callie, gets paired with Tisiphone, one of the Furies, in the underworld. How fun to have a Fury on your side, as your best friend, to cover your back.
This book reminds me a bit of a grown up Percy Jackson, The Lightning Thief, type of book. I read The Lightning Thief because of its Greek Mythology angle, but have yet to read any of the other books in that series because while they are enjoyable, they are honestly for a younger audience. This book is a more mature young adult novel, with some romance in the story, and even a little sex. A more mature story for a more mature audience.
Many character of Greek mythology make appearances in this book, from the well know to the lesser known. I admit that I now have three classics of Greek mythology in my to-read pile because I want to learn more about characters in this story that I didn't know about before. I now want to read Plutus by Aristophanes, as Plutus is the main male romantic lead in this book, so now I am curious to find out what his classic Greek story is. I also now want to read Oedipus Rexand Antigone by Sophocles, because I really enjoyed the prophet and seer Tiresias in this book, (he appears as a dread locked Jamaican) and now want to read what his classic portrayal is in those books.
I also admit I loved the character of Tisiphone in this book. The main female character in the book, Callie, gets paired with Tisiphone, one of the Furies, in the underworld. How fun to have a Fury on your side, as your best friend, to cover your back.
November 25, 2013
HOLY EFFING HADES......................
Okay now that I have gotten hat out of the way I have to say that this book is on my top 2013 book list! I love me some mythology books but I love it when an author can incorporate mythology into their own story line and make it their own. So lordy lordy I love Hades lord of the underworld. He can rock my socks off any day anytime I will go down to the bowels of hell and rule with him by his side.
Callie knows death isn't something to be messed with. She knows it is not about angels and demons but something else. So when she dies after being hit by a bus she expects something but she is not sure what it is but what she gets is something out of the ordinary. What she gets is Hades Lord of the underworld giving her a way out of death.
See Hades wants to know who is trying to kill his son. He is ready to do whatever it takes to hunt down the person or persons or Gods or goddesses that are trying to take out his son. So he makes a deal with Callie. All she has to do is find out who is trying to hurt his son. Sounds easy really right but it isn't because something is out there and they want what they want and they want Hades son dead end of story.
See the price for winning is life but the price for losing is way to steep because if she loses she loses her soul and the world will be destroyed! Holy Hades what will happen?
Okay now that I have gotten hat out of the way I have to say that this book is on my top 2013 book list! I love me some mythology books but I love it when an author can incorporate mythology into their own story line and make it their own. So lordy lordy I love Hades lord of the underworld. He can rock my socks off any day anytime I will go down to the bowels of hell and rule with him by his side.
Callie knows death isn't something to be messed with. She knows it is not about angels and demons but something else. So when she dies after being hit by a bus she expects something but she is not sure what it is but what she gets is something out of the ordinary. What she gets is Hades Lord of the underworld giving her a way out of death.
See Hades wants to know who is trying to kill his son. He is ready to do whatever it takes to hunt down the person or persons or Gods or goddesses that are trying to take out his son. So he makes a deal with Callie. All she has to do is find out who is trying to hurt his son. Sounds easy really right but it isn't because something is out there and they want what they want and they want Hades son dead end of story.
See the price for winning is life but the price for losing is way to steep because if she loses she loses her soul and the world will be destroyed! Holy Hades what will happen?
February 1, 2020
Not exactly what I was hoping for
I enjoyed this, for the most part, however, the interactions and manipulations between the gods and Callie were just frustrating, and I wasn’t at all behind the ‘love story’ which was a complete setup.
Favourite character was the poor Cerberus puppy - I don’t want to talk about it 🤬 - and that ending was very cliche. Yet, the identity of the perpetrator was well done, as was all the manipulating done over the years to get Callie where she is.
3 stars ⭐️
I enjoyed this, for the most part, however, the interactions and manipulations between the gods and Callie were just frustrating, and I wasn’t at all behind the ‘love story’ which was a complete setup.
Favourite character was the poor Cerberus puppy - I don’t want to talk about it 🤬 - and that ending was very cliche. Yet, the identity of the perpetrator was well done, as was all the manipulating done over the years to get Callie where she is.
3 stars ⭐️
November 27, 2013
I was drawn to Death is but a Dream for two reasons. First, the mythology. And, second, the overall concept is brilliant. I wasn't always thrilled with the execution, but I fell in love with the story idea and sometimes, that's enough to suck you in.
Callie is a good cop who dies saving someone's life. In the underworld, she's approached by Hades with a job. He tasks her with protecting his son, Plutus from a would-be assassin. In return, he will restore her to life. The job is a dangerous one that puts Callie's life and afterlife at risk on a daily basis. That makes her job protecting Plutus extra hard, and when her feelings for him start to get in the way, it becomes damn near impossible.
I love Greek mythology. Always have. Any book that features mythological characters is a must-read in my book. And, in Death is but a Dream, we see many familiar faces from the Greek stories of myth - Hades, Apollo, Aphrodite, Dionysus, Ares, Charon. I always love seeing how different authors put their own modern spin on the myths. In this case, the underworld is run like a business. There is a large office building, in which, Hades, as CEO has an office. The underworld has everything you could need - shops, restaurants and even an indoor firing range.
The concept was awesome. The world building was great. I truly loved the underworld and what Hayes did to modernize it. And, I loved the mystery to be solved. Mysteries are always fun, especially when the answer isn't always immediately obvious or available.
Callie never quite did it for me. She was almost there, but some of the things she did didn't fit what we knew of her. Callie was a workaholic. Someone who believed her job was the most important thing in her life. She was in a two-year relationship that she ended with little remorse. I don't believe that she would fall in love with Plutus in mere weeks. It just didn't make sense.
The pacing of the story was a little choppy. It stalled for awhile in the middle when the story shifted from the Underworld to the mortal world. Plutus and Callie take a cross-country road trip, and there was so much potential for action and mayhem. Yet, almost nothing happened. Callie was constantly getting stabbed with one thing or another, and by the end, it was almost a little funny. Poor girl just could stop getting impaled with things.
The mystery, although it started out as one of my favorite parts, fell flat too. It was solved pretty quickly. Halfway through the book, we knew who was trying to kill Plutus, who the peons were and what the motive was. Although the final battle was pretty cool, I would've liked to have been surprised by who the bad guy was.
The happily-ever-after in Death is but a Dream isn't a traditional one. There is one, of sorts, but being a reader who likes my HEAs tied up in a nice bow, I felt a little unsettled at the end. I wish things had happened a little differently. But, all-in-all, it wasn't bad. If you like Greek mythology and crime dramas, you should definitely give Death is but a Dream a go.
Callie is a good cop who dies saving someone's life. In the underworld, she's approached by Hades with a job. He tasks her with protecting his son, Plutus from a would-be assassin. In return, he will restore her to life. The job is a dangerous one that puts Callie's life and afterlife at risk on a daily basis. That makes her job protecting Plutus extra hard, and when her feelings for him start to get in the way, it becomes damn near impossible.
I love Greek mythology. Always have. Any book that features mythological characters is a must-read in my book. And, in Death is but a Dream, we see many familiar faces from the Greek stories of myth - Hades, Apollo, Aphrodite, Dionysus, Ares, Charon. I always love seeing how different authors put their own modern spin on the myths. In this case, the underworld is run like a business. There is a large office building, in which, Hades, as CEO has an office. The underworld has everything you could need - shops, restaurants and even an indoor firing range.
The concept was awesome. The world building was great. I truly loved the underworld and what Hayes did to modernize it. And, I loved the mystery to be solved. Mysteries are always fun, especially when the answer isn't always immediately obvious or available.
Callie never quite did it for me. She was almost there, but some of the things she did didn't fit what we knew of her. Callie was a workaholic. Someone who believed her job was the most important thing in her life. She was in a two-year relationship that she ended with little remorse. I don't believe that she would fall in love with Plutus in mere weeks. It just didn't make sense.
The pacing of the story was a little choppy. It stalled for awhile in the middle when the story shifted from the Underworld to the mortal world. Plutus and Callie take a cross-country road trip, and there was so much potential for action and mayhem. Yet, almost nothing happened. Callie was constantly getting stabbed with one thing or another, and by the end, it was almost a little funny. Poor girl just could stop getting impaled with things.
The mystery, although it started out as one of my favorite parts, fell flat too. It was solved pretty quickly. Halfway through the book, we knew who was trying to kill Plutus, who the peons were and what the motive was. Although the final battle was pretty cool, I would've liked to have been surprised by who the bad guy was.
The happily-ever-after in Death is but a Dream isn't a traditional one. There is one, of sorts, but being a reader who likes my HEAs tied up in a nice bow, I felt a little unsettled at the end. I wish things had happened a little differently. But, all-in-all, it wasn't bad. If you like Greek mythology and crime dramas, you should definitely give Death is but a Dream a go.
March 14, 2016
Death is but a dream or how a song see in an other book can keep pursuying you ! So what can I say about this story other than it's fantastic? Well, just that it's fantastic!!!
Do you know the serie Death like me? No? Well, you have miss something in your live (or a part of your live). It's begin like this : a 27 years-old woman, newly single, die. That's all. Cool, no? It's not all the story. She died while making some kind act of bravery and hope to go to Paradise... but nooo ! She awake in Hell, because she make a mistake (after all, Paradise is living Earth) and she have a talent that is need by Hell.
Now, you know the movie Bodyguard, with the sexy Kevin Costner who protect Whitney Houston from her fans? Yes? Well, this is the same, only she is the one who have to protect the Hell's superstar. Let's have some switch in the roles hahaha! That's here that Erin Hayes just kill me! But you don't know the best part yet (and she talk about it in the postface), you already have heard about Hercules and Xena, right? Of course you do, this is just too cult. Tada!!! Here they are !! Okay, it's more the Greck's Gods. But... OMG!! The way she describe Hades, in her modern vision, I just love him, I want the same Dad!
Let's came back talking about the book, we follow the story of a young police officer : Callista, alias Callie (don't forget it, she want you to named her like this), who awake in Hell after an accident who wasn't mean to happened to her. Hades, the God of Hells, propose her a deal : "Protect my dear son and I free you". Aye Caramba! We already are loughing like never.
Fisrt Callie : baddass who never stop to recall everyone about her name and is about to kill you if finally you call her Callie. Tche! Second : Even if the detective is the one with the good sense of observation, Plutus, the dear son of Hades and Persephone (or Pluto, you know, Mickey's dog like call him Callie), an attractive guy and in alpha mode, always take her by surprise. This couple is really lovely and funny, especially in their meeting! Still, I'm keeping doesn't believing that the ancients Gods are this well adapt to our modern world and have all this class!!!
Erin know how to take us with her in this mythologic univers. It's the same that we learn about in class, but more cool and interesting. And this song "Row row row your boat", sang in the worst place possible, it's just the best part! The writter really make this story addictive and I recommand it to all the lovers of that type of stories.
Do you know the serie Death like me? No? Well, you have miss something in your live (or a part of your live). It's begin like this : a 27 years-old woman, newly single, die. That's all. Cool, no? It's not all the story. She died while making some kind act of bravery and hope to go to Paradise... but nooo ! She awake in Hell, because she make a mistake (after all, Paradise is living Earth) and she have a talent that is need by Hell.
Now, you know the movie Bodyguard, with the sexy Kevin Costner who protect Whitney Houston from her fans? Yes? Well, this is the same, only she is the one who have to protect the Hell's superstar. Let's have some switch in the roles hahaha! That's here that Erin Hayes just kill me! But you don't know the best part yet (and she talk about it in the postface), you already have heard about Hercules and Xena, right? Of course you do, this is just too cult. Tada!!! Here they are !! Okay, it's more the Greck's Gods. But... OMG!! The way she describe Hades, in her modern vision, I just love him, I want the same Dad!
Let's came back talking about the book, we follow the story of a young police officer : Callista, alias Callie (don't forget it, she want you to named her like this), who awake in Hell after an accident who wasn't mean to happened to her. Hades, the God of Hells, propose her a deal : "Protect my dear son and I free you". Aye Caramba! We already are loughing like never.
Fisrt Callie : baddass who never stop to recall everyone about her name and is about to kill you if finally you call her Callie. Tche! Second : Even if the detective is the one with the good sense of observation, Plutus, the dear son of Hades and Persephone (or Pluto, you know, Mickey's dog like call him Callie), an attractive guy and in alpha mode, always take her by surprise. This couple is really lovely and funny, especially in their meeting! Still, I'm keeping doesn't believing that the ancients Gods are this well adapt to our modern world and have all this class!!!
Erin know how to take us with her in this mythologic univers. It's the same that we learn about in class, but more cool and interesting. And this song "Row row row your boat", sang in the worst place possible, it's just the best part! The writter really make this story addictive and I recommand it to all the lovers of that type of stories.
February 7, 2014
I really, really, really wanted to enjoy this book. I love retellings of the old Greek mythology tales. But as hard as I tried to get into this one, I just couldn't. The synopsis sounded amazing and action-packed but the book was rather slow moving.
In a few words...
Cover: Awesome
Rating: PG
Stars: 2.5
Overall: leaves much to be desired
Characters: could be improved upon
Page Turner: not so much
In other words...
From the beginning I had a hard time focusing on the plot-line. I think this story had the potential to be amazing, but for me personally it just fell short of what I was expecting.
Where do I start? Callista, who lets us know far too many times she wants to be called Callie, comes up as rather whiney in most of the dialogue yet throughout the story she continues to tell us she is an incredibly tough detective. I mean she's even been shot and has taken down men the size of trolls. I find this hard to believe when she cries so much.
Then there's poor Plutus, the God of Wealth. I didn't mind his character as much. I would have like to have seen a little bit more with him but this leads me to my next issue.
Typically, I can do without the romance but I wanted to see the relationship between Callie and Plutus develop. Instead we were fast-forwarded. I felt like their growing feeling were quickly skimmed over and summarized when their unlikely relationship would have been nice to follow from beginning to end.
The who done it aspect of this book also confused me a little. I am not sure we had enough background on the bad guy before we realized he's who done it! Maybe I missed something...
All in all, I didn't mind reading this book one bit. I found the end to be refreshing and I enjoyed the author's version of a happy ending.
In a few words...
Cover: Awesome
Rating: PG
Stars: 2.5
Overall: leaves much to be desired
Characters: could be improved upon
Page Turner: not so much
In other words...
From the beginning I had a hard time focusing on the plot-line. I think this story had the potential to be amazing, but for me personally it just fell short of what I was expecting.
Where do I start? Callista, who lets us know far too many times she wants to be called Callie, comes up as rather whiney in most of the dialogue yet throughout the story she continues to tell us she is an incredibly tough detective. I mean she's even been shot and has taken down men the size of trolls. I find this hard to believe when she cries so much.
Then there's poor Plutus, the God of Wealth. I didn't mind his character as much. I would have like to have seen a little bit more with him but this leads me to my next issue.
Typically, I can do without the romance but I wanted to see the relationship between Callie and Plutus develop. Instead we were fast-forwarded. I felt like their growing feeling were quickly skimmed over and summarized when their unlikely relationship would have been nice to follow from beginning to end.
The who done it aspect of this book also confused me a little. I am not sure we had enough background on the bad guy before we realized he's who done it! Maybe I missed something...
All in all, I didn't mind reading this book one bit. I found the end to be refreshing and I enjoyed the author's version of a happy ending.
January 22, 2014
I received a copy from Netgalley.
The idea behind this book sounded fantastic. Unfortunately, the book itself turned out to be rather a blah one for my tastes. The world building was awesome in the start of the book, I loved the unique way that the Greek Underworld had been modernised, yet managed to combine all the familiar gods of Greek myth and some original characters as well.
I didn't gel with the main character, Callie. I found her irritating almost immediately. However, I did enjoy the plot. The plot made it interesting, which was what kept me reading. Callie finds herself in the underworld after a bad accident, and Hades hires her to find out who's been trying to murder his son Plutus.
Its rather amusing reading about Callie trying to work her way around the Underworld, even though I didn't like her character much. I found her annoying and very attitudy. Callie, short for Callista her preferred choice to be called was a recurring theme throughout the book. It got annoying. they're Gods and goddesses and demi gods. If they don't want to call a character by a nickname, they don't have to. Personal observation, just something that bugged me.
Up until about half way through, the plot was pretty good. And then...it all sort of got...daft. At some point Plutus and Callie find themselves in the Mortal World headed to New York city and from then on it really went down hill and my interest dwindled. I found the New York scenes cliched, and after that I was really skimming through to see what happened in the end. I was less than impressed with the end and everything wrapped up nice and neat.
The world building in the start was brilliant, and while this particular novel just wasn't for me, I would definitely read something else by this author.
The idea behind this book sounded fantastic. Unfortunately, the book itself turned out to be rather a blah one for my tastes. The world building was awesome in the start of the book, I loved the unique way that the Greek Underworld had been modernised, yet managed to combine all the familiar gods of Greek myth and some original characters as well.
I didn't gel with the main character, Callie. I found her irritating almost immediately. However, I did enjoy the plot. The plot made it interesting, which was what kept me reading. Callie finds herself in the underworld after a bad accident, and Hades hires her to find out who's been trying to murder his son Plutus.
Its rather amusing reading about Callie trying to work her way around the Underworld, even though I didn't like her character much. I found her annoying and very attitudy. Callie, short for Callista her preferred choice to be called was a recurring theme throughout the book. It got annoying. they're Gods and goddesses and demi gods. If they don't want to call a character by a nickname, they don't have to. Personal observation, just something that bugged me.
Up until about half way through, the plot was pretty good. And then...it all sort of got...daft. At some point Plutus and Callie find themselves in the Mortal World headed to New York city and from then on it really went down hill and my interest dwindled. I found the New York scenes cliched, and after that I was really skimming through to see what happened in the end. I was less than impressed with the end and everything wrapped up nice and neat.
The world building in the start was brilliant, and while this particular novel just wasn't for me, I would definitely read something else by this author.
November 29, 2013
I seem to be the only one who did not like this book, but I just didn’t. I wanted badly to like this book. I love Greek mythology. The author did take some liberties in the story, and that is fine. What I did not like, was how the author went back and forth. For instance. Gods can make mortal women pregnant, okay but then one God can’t be seen ever? Why is it different for him? I found Callista to be very annoying. How many times can you tell someone to call you Callie? They heard you the first time. That got annoying super-fast but I moved on. The first half of the book was okay I guess. The second half was more of a romance than anything else, a bad one at that. The book needs to be re-edited as it had a lot of errors. Words spelled “wrong” like using “get” instead of “got” things like that all through the book.
Maybe if you like Greek mythology and romance you may possibly like this book? I found it boring and could not connect with anyone. The ending was also horrible.
Maybe if you like Greek mythology and romance you may possibly like this book? I found it boring and could not connect with anyone. The ending was also horrible.
November 29, 2013
Oh,Hades...* dazed*
I don't if I ever mention that I have weakness for Hades. And Greek Myths.
I always love him in every books.Of course in every other book every one of them different than others. And In this book Hades has a son.Plutus.
And there's a Callie. Callie is a detective. One day she saved a little girl right before hitting by a bus. So little girl lives and Callie is dying.She is in the deep coma.So in the same time Hades calling him to his palace. YAY. Yes this is a Myth so there's Stxy and Underworld and underworld workers bla bla. Hades made her a offer. Hades going to make her alive...right after saving his son,Plutus.
Oh,Lord of hells! I couldn't put this book,I jus read,read and read! I fell in love every words. This book so much perfect,literally.Usually I'm not much a fan of Action books but this is a BRİLLİANT WORK!!
I guess this is Eric Hayes's first Adult book and she write so so perfect.
Thank you for this lovely book Xpresso Book Tours and Eric Hayes.
I don't if I ever mention that I have weakness for Hades. And Greek Myths.
I always love him in every books.Of course in every other book every one of them different than others. And In this book Hades has a son.Plutus.
And there's a Callie. Callie is a detective. One day she saved a little girl right before hitting by a bus. So little girl lives and Callie is dying.She is in the deep coma.So in the same time Hades calling him to his palace. YAY. Yes this is a Myth so there's Stxy and Underworld and underworld workers bla bla. Hades made her a offer. Hades going to make her alive...right after saving his son,Plutus.
Oh,Lord of hells! I couldn't put this book,I jus read,read and read! I fell in love every words. This book so much perfect,literally.Usually I'm not much a fan of Action books but this is a BRİLLİANT WORK!!
I guess this is Eric Hayes's first Adult book and she write so so perfect.
Thank you for this lovely book Xpresso Book Tours and Eric Hayes.
October 1, 2013
YAAAAAYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY!!! Another editing project is now a published book!
Erin Hayes has done it again. Done what, you ask? Only managed to create an awesome story!
FROM BOOK:
Caught between life and death, all Callie wants is to live again.
Homicide detective Callie Saunders knows that death isn’t all pearly gates and angels. After being hit by a bus, she finds that it's the ancient gods and goddesses of Greek mythology who are in charge of everything.
So when Hades offers her a deal, she accepts. If she wants to be brought back to life, she’ll have to figure out who is trying to kill his son. But if she fails, both her soul and the world will be destroyed.
With the odds mounting against her, it’ll take everything she has within her to wake up from death. But the rules are constantly changing. And someone wants her to stay dead.
Erin Hayes has done it again. Done what, you ask? Only managed to create an awesome story!
FROM BOOK:
Caught between life and death, all Callie wants is to live again.
Homicide detective Callie Saunders knows that death isn’t all pearly gates and angels. After being hit by a bus, she finds that it's the ancient gods and goddesses of Greek mythology who are in charge of everything.
So when Hades offers her a deal, she accepts. If she wants to be brought back to life, she’ll have to figure out who is trying to kill his son. But if she fails, both her soul and the world will be destroyed.
With the odds mounting against her, it’ll take everything she has within her to wake up from death. But the rules are constantly changing. And someone wants her to stay dead.
June 7, 2017
I'm a huge fan of urban fantasy and Greek mythology so this was right up my alley. I had no idea what to expect, no idea what the story would be about, or what the characters would be like. Luckily for me, the entire book was excellent. I completely fell in love with it and the characters. There were some unique twists on classic mythology and an investing story and spectacular characters. The plot was unique and fun and engaging and exciting all the way to the end. The characters, particularly the mains, Callie and Plutus. Callie is a fantastic heroine and Plutus is pretty complex. I was just completely addicted to this whole story and seriously want to read the next books. There was romance, action, mystery, humour, monsters, everything I need and want in an urban fantasy story. Definitely a story worth checking out!
January 20, 2014
(I received a copy from Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review)
Actual rating - 3.5
Death is but a Dream was a good read, but it had it's slow moments.
I really liked Callie. She came out with some funny lines, and always stood up for herself.
It didn't matter if the person she was standing up to was dangerous.
I really liked Plutus too. I didn't think i would at first, but he turned out to be a really sweet guy.
I felt so sorry for him when he told Callie what happened to him. It was horrific.
The ending was done really well.
Overall, a good read, with great characters.
Actual rating - 3.5
Death is but a Dream was a good read, but it had it's slow moments.
I really liked Callie. She came out with some funny lines, and always stood up for herself.
It didn't matter if the person she was standing up to was dangerous.
I really liked Plutus too. I didn't think i would at first, but he turned out to be a really sweet guy.
I felt so sorry for him when he told Callie what happened to him. It was horrific.
The ending was done really well.
Overall, a good read, with great characters.
August 6, 2016
Loved it
This was a totally different take on Greek mythology and I loved it.
Erin has a way of painting a story that drawls you in from he very beginning and this one did not disappoint.
The storyline was original and different, and also kept you guessing. I cannot wait to read the next book.
This was a totally different take on Greek mythology and I loved it.
Erin has a way of painting a story that drawls you in from he very beginning and this one did not disappoint.
The storyline was original and different, and also kept you guessing. I cannot wait to read the next book.
November 8, 2013
I enjoyed the different view on Greek mythology. The adventure with the gods was fun and bold. I really enjoyed this book
March 21, 2017
I am feeling so emotional after finishing this book, happy and sad at the same time! I adored this book and i couldn't stop reading the book, it was completely compelling and i felt like i had to keep turning the pages to find out what was going to happen next. I have seen the saying many times when you read a book and physically have to take some time out to digest the story and not be able to read anything else as the one thing that is occupying your mind is the story...this is that book!!! It's written in such a personal way that you feel like you are connected to the people in this story, that what happens to them affects your life, i really am blown away by this book!!!
Th storyline to this book is definitely what you would call action packed! I adore books with Gods and Goddesses in them and one of the things i loved about this was how the descriptions of them were not what you expect, so it was all a surprise as if you were learning for the first time especially the fact that it was explained what each ones abilities were and this really gave a lot to the storyline in my opinion. You didnt know what was going to happen next so the whole book was a surprise. I am not going to mention any more about the storyline as i would hate to give this story away just expect to be blown away and have your emotions going up and down in the best way!
I can honestly say i loved all the characters even the ones that weren't on the side of good. Each character that you read about is so different to the next one and i would love to say a lot about each one but this review would never end. You will fall i love with the characters in this book with all their quirks and different personalities mortal and immortal.
I can't wait to read more of this series and this book is one i would highly recommend to everyone to read, you will see what an amazing writer the author is and you will be hooked i guarantee it!!!!
Th storyline to this book is definitely what you would call action packed! I adore books with Gods and Goddesses in them and one of the things i loved about this was how the descriptions of them were not what you expect, so it was all a surprise as if you were learning for the first time especially the fact that it was explained what each ones abilities were and this really gave a lot to the storyline in my opinion. You didnt know what was going to happen next so the whole book was a surprise. I am not going to mention any more about the storyline as i would hate to give this story away just expect to be blown away and have your emotions going up and down in the best way!
I can honestly say i loved all the characters even the ones that weren't on the side of good. Each character that you read about is so different to the next one and i would love to say a lot about each one but this review would never end. You will fall i love with the characters in this book with all their quirks and different personalities mortal and immortal.
I can't wait to read more of this series and this book is one i would highly recommend to everyone to read, you will see what an amazing writer the author is and you will be hooked i guarantee it!!!!
August 9, 2017
Originally posted @https://nzfnmblog.wordpress.com/2017/...
When I saw another bloggers review on this I knew I wanted to read it, I love Greek Mythology especially the ones which tend to focus more on Hades and the ‘Underworld Gods’ so I knew I had to try this! The book starts quite fast paced, the main character does die within the first chapter and we are introduced to the world of the Underworld. I loved Callie’s character she is a okay let’s get on with it kind of girl and seems to take most things in her stride, even being unexpectedly dead. The authors interpretation of the Underworld tickled me as well as it seemed to be more of an Airport Security kind of deal then anything else. Cos that’s just what you want to deal with immediately after leaving this mortal plane. Even with that my favourite character was definitely Plutus, Hades son that Callie is charged with protecting. Although he is blind and has a limp he was the character I felt I most connected to as well as the one I was most rooting for! Who doesn’t love an underdog haha. As I mentioned before the story is quite fast paced and once Callie is down in the Underworld the detective work begins. It includes a fair bit of Greek Mythology and one or two ‘creatures’ I was not aware of before. There was also enough ‘shocks’ to keep the momentum going though one of them I was not happy with at all. (Not that it wasn’t good for the story, I just didn’t want that to happen). Overall though I would recommend.
When I saw another bloggers review on this I knew I wanted to read it, I love Greek Mythology especially the ones which tend to focus more on Hades and the ‘Underworld Gods’ so I knew I had to try this! The book starts quite fast paced, the main character does die within the first chapter and we are introduced to the world of the Underworld. I loved Callie’s character she is a okay let’s get on with it kind of girl and seems to take most things in her stride, even being unexpectedly dead. The authors interpretation of the Underworld tickled me as well as it seemed to be more of an Airport Security kind of deal then anything else. Cos that’s just what you want to deal with immediately after leaving this mortal plane. Even with that my favourite character was definitely Plutus, Hades son that Callie is charged with protecting. Although he is blind and has a limp he was the character I felt I most connected to as well as the one I was most rooting for! Who doesn’t love an underdog haha. As I mentioned before the story is quite fast paced and once Callie is down in the Underworld the detective work begins. It includes a fair bit of Greek Mythology and one or two ‘creatures’ I was not aware of before. There was also enough ‘shocks’ to keep the momentum going though one of them I was not happy with at all. (Not that it wasn’t good for the story, I just didn’t want that to happen). Overall though I would recommend.
June 19, 2017
I knew the main character died (its right there in the blurb people) but the way it happened at the end of the first chapter was like wow so we are doing this (insert laughter here). From then on it really goes haywire....and ya Callie dying not the highlight. It does get more insane and crazy and epic! (Oh and so I do not forget humor I have to mention my love for the line of those who died being like the DMV...I had a complete sloth zootopia flash but with dead people and I could not stop laughing)
Let me start with Limbo. And immigration officers dealing with ghosts. Oh My God is was wonderful. That the after life starts off like the DMV and an office that runs so slow a snail moves faster. Oh I could not hold in the laughing. The journey to see Hades and the way Callie's mind works just made me laugh the entire time I read it. I do not think I have ever read a character so adept at sarcasm. The sly slightly dark but not mean kind of humor you have to chuckle to. And then when someone looks at you you cough and pretend you didn't laugh. It was pretty amazing. And that's just the first three chapters. It only gets better from there. Case in point read the book!
Let me start with Limbo. And immigration officers dealing with ghosts. Oh My God is was wonderful. That the after life starts off like the DMV and an office that runs so slow a snail moves faster. Oh I could not hold in the laughing. The journey to see Hades and the way Callie's mind works just made me laugh the entire time I read it. I do not think I have ever read a character so adept at sarcasm. The sly slightly dark but not mean kind of humor you have to chuckle to. And then when someone looks at you you cough and pretend you didn't laugh. It was pretty amazing. And that's just the first three chapters. It only gets better from there. Case in point read the book!
July 16, 2017
Ex police detective Callie Saunders is lucky to be alive but is doing well away from all the Greek gods and goddesses - but of course she is missing the one she loves so it is always going to be a struggle.
It all comes to a head when a god seeking vengeance kidnaps her son and she has to go back to the world of those gods and goddesses to try and rescue him. Will she save not just him but maybe even humanity and how will she cope with seeing the one who seems to hold her heart?
What can I say? I LOVED this story. It was full of plots, twists, turns, emotions and passion. I loved the way the story was woven into the Greek mythology whilst also making all the gods and goddesses more "human" with the same feelings and emotions as the rest of us. Now all I need is to read the next part of this story as I NEED to know what happens next.
It all comes to a head when a god seeking vengeance kidnaps her son and she has to go back to the world of those gods and goddesses to try and rescue him. Will she save not just him but maybe even humanity and how will she cope with seeing the one who seems to hold her heart?
What can I say? I LOVED this story. It was full of plots, twists, turns, emotions and passion. I loved the way the story was woven into the Greek mythology whilst also making all the gods and goddesses more "human" with the same feelings and emotions as the rest of us. Now all I need is to read the next part of this story as I NEED to know what happens next.
February 4, 2017
What do you do when the devil wants to make a deal with you? I would like to think most people would turn and run, however Callie isn't quite that lucky, and she isn't even supposed to be in this situation anyway. I thought this might just be another book about a mortal soul in the underworld with Hades, but it truly isn't. This book had so many twists and turns to it that I was being surprised all the way till the last chapter. You get love, heartbreakingly devoted love. You have action, secrets, and betrayals but you also have devotion, true friendships and some great new mythical creatures. I am very much looking forward to meeting new friends (and enemies) in the rest of this series. I was gifted a copy of this book from the author.
October 10, 2017
Shades of the Gods is a unique take on the afterlife full of Greek Gods and goddesses.. Callie pushes a child out of the front of a bus only to be hit herself. Waking up in the underworld, she's recruited by Hades to use her detective skills to find out whose trying to kill his son. Her payment will be a return to life. But navigating the underworld is dangerous business, especially when you're falling in love with the boss's son and everyone seems to want him dead. Full of action and colorful characters, Shades of the Gods thrills and draws you fully into Callie's story and leaves you addicted and wanting more. I love the strong female characters that lead the story and cannot wait to read more of their stories.
May 14, 2017
A very different kind of story built upon greek gods and mythology. When Homicide detective Callie Sanders is killed in the line of duty, she end up in a pergatory of sorts where Hades has tasked her with finding the person who is trying to kill his son to get back to her real life, or die in the Underworld. She has to use her detective skills while trying not to fall in love with his son at the same time. This story is full of twists and turns that help you get to know many of the Greek gods as they help or hinder Callie along ther way. A really good read if you want a bit of a twist within the world of mythology.
January 31, 2017
Great story idea and I really like this author so I was very excited about reading it. I love Greek mythology so I knew this was a slam dunk. I am also one of those readers that when character annoy me I give it a go because that character caused me to react. I did however get plenty sick of Callie (as we were overly reminded). I did want to reach out and touch her a few times throughout the book. There is a lot of action and suspense and as I said a good well written story line and I can't wait for more.
May 16, 2017
Callie throws herself in front of a bus to save a little girl and in her mostly dead state agrees to investigate who is trying to kill Hades' son Plutus.
I really didn't like Callie. She had a mega attitude, which does not equal toughness. She said she didn't regret saving the girl but apparently dealing with the consequences is too much for her. And she is too good and too moral and knows too much to be subjected to things that she admittedly doesn't understand. I couldn't even get the story in my head because Callie's tude was in the way.
I really didn't like Callie. She had a mega attitude, which does not equal toughness. She said she didn't regret saving the girl but apparently dealing with the consequences is too much for her. And she is too good and too moral and knows too much to be subjected to things that she admittedly doesn't understand. I couldn't even get the story in my head because Callie's tude was in the way.
June 8, 2017
Great story idea and I really like this author so I was very excited about reading it. I love Greek mythology so I knew this was a slam dunk. I am also one of those readers that when character annoy me I give it a go because that character caused me to react. I did however get plenty sick of Callie (as we were overly reminded). I did want to reach out and touch her a few times throughout the book. There is a lot of action and suspense and as I said a good well written story line and I can't wait for more.
July 16, 2018
I think more like 3.5 stars, but it was an interesting read because I didn't know anything about Plutus until I read this book. He was an interesting character, with so much heart because of who he is and who his parents are, and what he can do...I think his character carried the book for me. Callie was okay, I liked her determination but sometimes she can get annoying... although the ending was very bittersweet but I was okay with it.
June 25, 2017
What a great story!
I love Greek mythology and in reading the description of this book I was eager to give it a try. It surely did not disappoint. It had all the elements I love, Gods interacting with mortals, a love story and mystery in one great package. If your like me and those things as sing out "Read Me!" to you, you are in for a treat!
I love Greek mythology and in reading the description of this book I was eager to give it a try. It surely did not disappoint. It had all the elements I love, Gods interacting with mortals, a love story and mystery in one great package. If your like me and those things as sing out "Read Me!" to you, you are in for a treat!
June 25, 2017
Interesting well written book. Callie is in a coma and sent to hell to save a god, the son of Hades. There is a lot of action and mystery in this book. I enjoyed the romance but felt Callie was a bit egocentric. The bad guy in this book wants what Plutus has and will stop at nothing to get it. I hope you enjoy this book!
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