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Soul in Darkness
People travel from afar to the small isle in the Aegean Sea hoping for a single glimpse of Princess Psyche. Their adoration for the mortal woman is so all-consuming that citizens begin to shower her with the very gifts and offerings they once left at the alter of Venus, goddess of love and beauty.
But gods are known for their jealousy.
Cupid, the god of love, takes pleasure in causing strife and mischief in the lives of humans. He uses love as a weapon, humoring in the weakness of people at the whims of their feelings. When his mother Venus approaches him about punishing the human girl who dares to steal her offerings and affections from the people, Cupid gladly accepts.
Psyche's punishment is to be given to a mysterious creature who only comes to her in the dark of night under the pact that she will never lay eyes on him. She is terrified of this stranger, who the oracle described as a serpent. Her mate, however, is masterful in his dealings with his bride. He takes his time, morphing her fears into different sensations completely.
Based on the Roman/Greek mythology of Cupid and Psyche from Lucius Apuleius, New York Times bestseller Wendy Higgins brings the tale to life, weaving layers that show exactly how a sacrificial lamb can be enchanted by an unseen monster.
But gods are known for their jealousy.
Cupid, the god of love, takes pleasure in causing strife and mischief in the lives of humans. He uses love as a weapon, humoring in the weakness of people at the whims of their feelings. When his mother Venus approaches him about punishing the human girl who dares to steal her offerings and affections from the people, Cupid gladly accepts.
Psyche's punishment is to be given to a mysterious creature who only comes to her in the dark of night under the pact that she will never lay eyes on him. She is terrified of this stranger, who the oracle described as a serpent. Her mate, however, is masterful in his dealings with his bride. He takes his time, morphing her fears into different sensations completely.
Based on the Roman/Greek mythology of Cupid and Psyche from Lucius Apuleius, New York Times bestseller Wendy Higgins brings the tale to life, weaving layers that show exactly how a sacrificial lamb can be enchanted by an unseen monster.
354 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 10, 2019
322 people are currently reading
6491 people want to read
About the author
Wendy Higgins
20 books7,954 followersWendy Higgins is a USA Today and NY Times bestselling author.
After earning a Creative Writing degree from George Mason University and a Masters in Curriculum and Instruction from Radford, Wendy taught high school English until achieving her dream job as a full-time writer.
After earning a Creative Writing degree from George Mason University and a Masters in Curriculum and Instruction from Radford, Wendy taught high school English until achieving her dream job as a full-time writer.
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January 9, 2019I am so excited. When I read the mythology of the god Cupid and mortal Princess Psyche, I found it to be the quintessential, classic, ultimate romance, and knew I had to write it.
I'd originally intended for this book to be YA-Crossover, because it starts with her as an older teen, but it's definitely not YA after all, so I've amended that in the description. THIS IS AN ADULT ROMANCE. ;)
Also, it's a standalone and will not have a sequel.
Hugs and kisses to you!!!
I'd originally intended for this book to be YA-Crossover, because it starts with her as an older teen, but it's definitely not YA after all, so I've amended that in the description. THIS IS AN ADULT ROMANCE. ;)
Also, it's a standalone and will not have a sequel.
Hugs and kisses to you!!!
January 22, 2019
This sounds freaking AMAZING!!!
***Edited***
Now that I've read it, I can safely say that it WAS freaking amazing!!! The myth of Cupid and Psyche has always been one of my favorite, and Wendy Higgins brought it to life! The thing I love about Wendy's writing is that she balances the dark and light elements so, so well! Now I just want mooooaarr! <3
***Edited***
Now that I've read it, I can safely say that it WAS freaking amazing!!! The myth of Cupid and Psyche has always been one of my favorite, and Wendy Higgins brought it to life! The thing I love about Wendy's writing is that she balances the dark and light elements so, so well! Now I just want mooooaarr! <3
February 12, 2019
❤️5 stars ❤️
This was an amazing read, since I'm from Greece I already know the myth, and I'm always intrigued to read books that have Greek mythology.Wendy Higgins did an amazing job, she delivers a fast paced,brilliant story, full of emotions and some really steamy moments.
I don't want to give anything away but if you love mythology then you definitely have to read this one!The characters were fantastic, so well developed.Psyche is astrong heroine.Cupid is an interesting character , he intrigued me and I love the mystery around him.
"I'm going to trust my instincts," I said softly. "Maybe that makes me a fool, but I can't continue to live in fear. I wasn't built that way. I want to trust you. I want to...work with you. As a team. To do whatever it is we are meant to do."
Soul in Darkness took me by I didn't expect to be so sexy!Soul In Darkness has suspense, action and the romance is amazing!
This was an amazing read, since I'm from Greece I already know the myth, and I'm always intrigued to read books that have Greek mythology.Wendy Higgins did an amazing job, she delivers a fast paced,brilliant story, full of emotions and some really steamy moments.
I don't want to give anything away but if you love mythology then you definitely have to read this one!The characters were fantastic, so well developed.Psyche is astrong heroine.Cupid is an interesting character , he intrigued me and I love the mystery around him.
"I'm going to trust my instincts," I said softly. "Maybe that makes me a fool, but I can't continue to live in fear. I wasn't built that way. I want to trust you. I want to...work with you. As a team. To do whatever it is we are meant to do."
Soul in Darkness took me by I didn't expect to be so sexy!Soul In Darkness has suspense, action and the romance is amazing!
February 3, 2019
Soul in Darkness was enchanting, seductive and smile inducing. This story was everything I love about Wendy Higgins. It had the most delicious sexual tension, characters that I quickly loved and a story that made me fly through this book way too fast. If you're a fan of Greek mythology, retellings, or Wendy Higgins then definitely pick this one up. I absolutely loved this story and can't recommend it enough!
If you aren't familiar with the mythology surrounding Cupid and Psyche, their story is an exhilarating ride. Princess Psyche was said to be so beautiful that the villagers brought her gifts, instead of the Gods. With Venus angered, she asked her son, Cupid, to punish Psyche. Psyche's punishment ended up being married to a creature that was described as a dark-deeded winged serpent. Oh how I loved Wendy Higgins' approach to this classic tale. What unfolded was a story woven with betrayal, love, twists, friendship, trust and sacrifice that completely enraptured me .
Psyche was filled with such loneliness, beauty was truly her curse. She had no friends, she was terrified to make her sisters jealous and men saw her for nothing more than her beauty. My heart hurt for her. Especially when she showed us time and again what a kind heart she had. So when her fate of marrying a monster was laid out to her, her bravery was remarkable. Psyche proved herself in that moment that she was born to be a queen. She was spirited, determined, smart and I absolutely loved her!
Upon arriving on her husband's land, Psyche discovered there were rules. She wasn't able to see her husband, yet he could touch her. And while she had free reign of his lands during the day, she had to spend her nights with him. Psyche's fears leaped off of the pages. Her thoughts were consuming and I truly understood her horror of being a prisoner, married to a monster. Yet her husband wasn't anything like she expected.
Psyche's husband showed her kindness. He was compassionate, heartfelt, listened and tried to make her happy. Yet creatures, especially those shrouded in mystery, can be deceiving. So Psyche was waiting for the moment that he would cause her physical and mental anguish. Now here's the thing. I don't care what others think, but I absolutely loved her husband. While it seemed like he could give her the world, I only wanted what Psyche desperately needed the most. To be able to see him.
I loved how Psyche's husband made me laugh, he had such a funny way with words. And it warmed my heart that he called her bright soul. His words could be mesmerizing. But what I loved the most, was when he touched her. Soul in Darkness was extremely seductive, sensual and the tension between them was electrifying. Even with fear looming in the back of Psyche's mind, she couldn't deny that her husband made her body come alive.
While I guessed some of the secrets in this book, I still found my heart beating hard in my chest. I could taste Psyche's terror and I was even filled with dread over her fate. As the story unfolded, it took turns I wasn't prepared for. I cried my heart out and I was ecstatic when I reached the end of the book and found an epilogue. It left the hugest smile on my face. So yes, I definitely recommend Soul in Darkness, this story was completely enchanting.
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, provided by the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
For more of my reviews, please visit:
“Bright soul, why must you make this difficult?”
In his nearness, I felt his words on my cheek. A scream immobilized in my throat as I was suddenly overcome by the surprising scent of rain and honeysuckle. That was not what a monster should smell like.
If you aren't familiar with the mythology surrounding Cupid and Psyche, their story is an exhilarating ride. Princess Psyche was said to be so beautiful that the villagers brought her gifts, instead of the Gods. With Venus angered, she asked her son, Cupid, to punish Psyche. Psyche's punishment ended up being married to a creature that was described as a dark-deeded winged serpent. Oh how I loved Wendy Higgins' approach to this classic tale. What unfolded was a story woven with betrayal, love, twists, friendship, trust and sacrifice that completely enraptured me .
“Sometimes,” he said, “we fear that which we should embrace because we do not know better.”
I swallowed, shaking my head, closing my eyes.
“When I touch you,” he breathed, “your fear disappears. You enjoy my touch.”
“ No, I don’t ,” I blurted.
“Your lies are useless.”
Psyche was filled with such loneliness, beauty was truly her curse. She had no friends, she was terrified to make her sisters jealous and men saw her for nothing more than her beauty. My heart hurt for her. Especially when she showed us time and again what a kind heart she had. So when her fate of marrying a monster was laid out to her, her bravery was remarkable. Psyche proved herself in that moment that she was born to be a queen. She was spirited, determined, smart and I absolutely loved her!
“Trust yourself, Psyche. Trust your soul.”
Upon arriving on her husband's land, Psyche discovered there were rules. She wasn't able to see her husband, yet he could touch her. And while she had free reign of his lands during the day, she had to spend her nights with him. Psyche's fears leaped off of the pages. Her thoughts were consuming and I truly understood her horror of being a prisoner, married to a monster. Yet her husband wasn't anything like she expected.
“I cannot say all the things I wish to say.” His voice was deeper and huskier than ever, sending a ripple through me. “But if you listen, Psyche, listen to my touch…perhaps you will hear.”
Psyche's husband showed her kindness. He was compassionate, heartfelt, listened and tried to make her happy. Yet creatures, especially those shrouded in mystery, can be deceiving. So Psyche was waiting for the moment that he would cause her physical and mental anguish. Now here's the thing. I don't care what others think, but I absolutely loved her husband. While it seemed like he could give her the world, I only wanted what Psyche desperately needed the most. To be able to see him.
All I knew for a fact was that if he was an enemy, he was the most dangerous enemy possible, because when I was with him, my heart, my body, and my soul wanted him.
I loved how Psyche's husband made me laugh, he had such a funny way with words. And it warmed my heart that he called her bright soul. His words could be mesmerizing. But what I loved the most, was when he touched her. Soul in Darkness was extremely seductive, sensual and the tension between them was electrifying. Even with fear looming in the back of Psyche's mind, she couldn't deny that her husband made her body come alive.
When I got to his earlobe, my teeth grazed the skin there as I took it into my mouth and dragged my lips away. He whispered my name and shuddered. Everything in me felt animalistic and proud that such a small gesture could bring about a reaction from an immortal.
While I guessed some of the secrets in this book, I still found my heart beating hard in my chest. I could taste Psyche's terror and I was even filled with dread over her fate. As the story unfolded, it took turns I wasn't prepared for. I cried my heart out and I was ecstatic when I reached the end of the book and found an epilogue. It left the hugest smile on my face. So yes, I definitely recommend Soul in Darkness, this story was completely enchanting.
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, provided by the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
For more of my reviews, please visit:
March 16, 2019
This is what happens when you hand an ancient myth over to someone who's familiar with it only through Google, and ask them to write a retelling.
I'm not trying to be unfairly harsh to this author, new to me, but Soul in Darkness does stink of not knowing what she was writing about, so the best that could be done given the unfamiliarity was to turn it into the usual cliché-filled contemporary romance masquerading as something else. It may get a pass with some, but it just won't with me.
Let's see the issues:
One, it's historically inaccurate. Lucius Apuleius' account of the Cupid & Psyche story in The Golden Ass is a II c. A. D. legend set in a mythical past with no specific date (and when do myths have exact dates, anyhow?), and likely a retelling from Apuleius' own mind since there's no precedent that we know of, because the legends of Cupid from before don't include a love story with Psyche. On the other hand, Wendy Higgins made her retelling historical, identifiably and specifically placed at the time when Greece was under Roman rule. Problem is, by then Greece had no kings anymore: it was a Roman province, for goodness' sake! There were still client kings in the Hellenised sphere in Asia, but not in Greece proper. So why does Soul in Darkness have kings and queens in Greece under Roman rule? The obvious answer is not knowing your history, and writing a historical piece anyway.
Besides, how are you to make it believable that a mortal maiden becomes immortal for love of a god in a time when such a legend would've already been existing in the real world? The legend already exists by the time you've placed the story in, but you're writing as if it's about to happen. Doesn't make sense.
It'd have been best to make this retelling purely Fantasy instead of this embarrassment. Or, if you insist it be historical fiction or historical fantasy, place it in a time when Greece still had royalty. You know, basic research, Google is your friend, but it doesn't do your thinking for you.
Two, anachronistic language. Psyche says okay. Imagine it: a Greek from millennia past somehow knows 19th century American slang. This is a too common blunder, nonetheless the more times I find it, the less tolerant I am. It's now reached a point that an author loses my respect merely by using it inappropriately before its time. No, it's not small beans to me. It's never small beans to anyone who knows their history, much less when anachronistic language is compounded by anachornistic attitudes and behaviours.
Three, love at first lust. Do I have to explain this point? Well, being fair, it's a Your Mileage May Vary point in truth: some may not mind it whilst others might throw the book against the wall because of it. Speaking for my own tastes, I dislike this trope, but it's Cupid we have here: love at first lust is practically his business. So I'd have been willing to not mind much if... "If" is the operative word here, see next point for why.
Fourth, paint-by-numbers plot and paint-by-numbers storytelling. See, this is what'd give the author away as someone who doesn't know the subject to those that didn't catch it already from the historical inaccuracies: she writes her retelling studiously ticking all the boxes from whatever list of plot points she got from her superficial research. Psyche is a princess, check. Her dad is a king and her mum a queen, check. Oracle says she's fated to marry a monster, check. She's tied to a rock and left for said monster, check. She's taken to monster's house and has to sleep in the dark with him, check. She promises to never try to look on him and find out who he is, check. She disobeys 'cause Evil Sisters, check. She, she, she... tick box, tick box, tick box.
How exhausting. Everything you'd learn from a quick perusing of the myth is here. And the originality? Is there any? Well, if you consider point five...
Five, sex covers up for lack of plot. You know the bit where Cupid has Psyche swear she won't try and discover who he is for a set time? In the legend, she disobeys and lights a candle to find out who the mysterious being sleeping beside her is and that brings about travails for her to overcome. in Wendy Higgins' retelling, Psyche still disobeys. Only that she needn't have if plot consistency was upheld. Because she's happily having sex with Cupid all the while! Yes, crazy. You promise me you won't light a candle to see my face, dear, and don't try to touch me either. Oh, but of course I'm the horny god of love, so you can shag me all you want. Just don't touch me! Except with your feet, you can touch me with your feet, preferably if your legs are up and spread for me. Just no touching! Because your hands will tell you who I am, but us having sex and your footy exploration won't. Because.
I'm not kidding, this ridiculous plot is actually in the book. Fancy calling it Shagging the Soul Out of You in Darkness instead?
Enfin, I'm starting to suspect Cupid & Psyche are sadly going the same route as Hades & Persephone, and I just can't handle the rewriting them as mediocre romances full of modern tropes.
I'm not trying to be unfairly harsh to this author, new to me, but Soul in Darkness does stink of not knowing what she was writing about, so the best that could be done given the unfamiliarity was to turn it into the usual cliché-filled contemporary romance masquerading as something else. It may get a pass with some, but it just won't with me.
Let's see the issues:
One, it's historically inaccurate. Lucius Apuleius' account of the Cupid & Psyche story in The Golden Ass is a II c. A. D. legend set in a mythical past with no specific date (and when do myths have exact dates, anyhow?), and likely a retelling from Apuleius' own mind since there's no precedent that we know of, because the legends of Cupid from before don't include a love story with Psyche. On the other hand, Wendy Higgins made her retelling historical, identifiably and specifically placed at the time when Greece was under Roman rule. Problem is, by then Greece had no kings anymore: it was a Roman province, for goodness' sake! There were still client kings in the Hellenised sphere in Asia, but not in Greece proper. So why does Soul in Darkness have kings and queens in Greece under Roman rule? The obvious answer is not knowing your history, and writing a historical piece anyway.
Besides, how are you to make it believable that a mortal maiden becomes immortal for love of a god in a time when such a legend would've already been existing in the real world? The legend already exists by the time you've placed the story in, but you're writing as if it's about to happen. Doesn't make sense.
It'd have been best to make this retelling purely Fantasy instead of this embarrassment. Or, if you insist it be historical fiction or historical fantasy, place it in a time when Greece still had royalty. You know, basic research, Google is your friend, but it doesn't do your thinking for you.
Two, anachronistic language. Psyche says okay. Imagine it: a Greek from millennia past somehow knows 19th century American slang. This is a too common blunder, nonetheless the more times I find it, the less tolerant I am. It's now reached a point that an author loses my respect merely by using it inappropriately before its time. No, it's not small beans to me. It's never small beans to anyone who knows their history, much less when anachronistic language is compounded by anachornistic attitudes and behaviours.
Three, love at first lust. Do I have to explain this point? Well, being fair, it's a Your Mileage May Vary point in truth: some may not mind it whilst others might throw the book against the wall because of it. Speaking for my own tastes, I dislike this trope, but it's Cupid we have here: love at first lust is practically his business. So I'd have been willing to not mind much if... "If" is the operative word here, see next point for why.
Fourth, paint-by-numbers plot and paint-by-numbers storytelling. See, this is what'd give the author away as someone who doesn't know the subject to those that didn't catch it already from the historical inaccuracies: she writes her retelling studiously ticking all the boxes from whatever list of plot points she got from her superficial research. Psyche is a princess, check. Her dad is a king and her mum a queen, check. Oracle says she's fated to marry a monster, check. She's tied to a rock and left for said monster, check. She's taken to monster's house and has to sleep in the dark with him, check. She promises to never try to look on him and find out who he is, check. She disobeys 'cause Evil Sisters, check. She, she, she... tick box, tick box, tick box.
How exhausting. Everything you'd learn from a quick perusing of the myth is here. And the originality? Is there any? Well, if you consider point five...
Five, sex covers up for lack of plot. You know the bit where Cupid has Psyche swear she won't try and discover who he is for a set time? In the legend, she disobeys and lights a candle to find out who the mysterious being sleeping beside her is and that brings about travails for her to overcome. in Wendy Higgins' retelling, Psyche still disobeys. Only that she needn't have if plot consistency was upheld. Because she's happily having sex with Cupid all the while! Yes, crazy. You promise me you won't light a candle to see my face, dear, and don't try to touch me either. Oh, but of course I'm the horny god of love, so you can shag me all you want. Just don't touch me! Except with your feet, you can touch me with your feet, preferably if your legs are up and spread for me. Just no touching! Because your hands will tell you who I am, but us having sex and your footy exploration won't. Because.
I'm not kidding, this ridiculous plot is actually in the book. Fancy calling it Shagging the Soul Out of You in Darkness instead?
Enfin, I'm starting to suspect Cupid & Psyche are sadly going the same route as Hades & Persephone, and I just can't handle the rewriting them as mediocre romances full of modern tropes.
October 17, 2020
3,5 '💘Eros and Psyche🦋' stars
Oh my, where to start. The thing is that I really liked some parts of this book and I completely hated the other parts. As everyone probably already knows, I'm kind of obsessed with mythology. Like I very seriously devoted fan of everything mythological. So, I'm always torn when it comes to retellings - will I like it, will I have too high expectations, will I be annoyed with the changes and incorrections? I've been in love with Eros and Psyche's story since I've read The Golden Ass and I adore the original myth very much. Now imagine the dilemma when I came across this book. But eventually, it lured me in and I couldn't wait to finally get my hands on it.
Eros and Psyche by Antonio Canova
The beginning of the story was bad, really bad but I will return to this later. Actually, the entire first part was pretty boring and uneventful. The plot was impossibly and necessarily stretched and sometimes didn't have much sense. I could totally relate to the feeling of this wedding procession because I was almost bored to death. (If you're wondering why this wedding procession looks like a funeral, read the book *wink*)
Psyche's Wedding by Pre-Raphaelite painter Edward Burne-Jones
Also, I didn't get why this book has so many YA vibes. In the beginning, Psyche was a lot like a typical YA heroine. She had wonderful character development later on which was beautifully done. However, I still don't understand why so many mythology retellings are YA. You know, Greek mythology is full of incest, revenge killings, eating babies, bestiality, and Zeus having sex in all possible imaginable forms and few unimaginable ones (golden rain, anyone?) It doesn't make sense to try to transform this into YA.
Anyway, fortunately, part two and part three were very well written. Finally, we got Cupid's POV (somehow late but better late than never), and seeing things from his point brought a new dynamic into the story. And, of course, part three was the interesting one, where the book came the closest to the original myth. It was brilliant and I loved it even if the ending dragged a little. But I must admit that Cupid and Psyche needed some quality time together and a good conclusion to their story. It was just too bad that we didn't see the wedding feast and Psyche given butterfly wings. I think those scenes were quite important and I would gladly exchange them for the epilogue.
Wedding Banquet of Cupid and Psyche by Raffaelo
Overall, it was a nice read. The second part of the book definitely aided with the rating rounding up. Without the weak start, this could be an excellent book but there were just too many mistakes that I couldn't overlook. I know that many things that bothered me weren't that much important to the story but I was really annoyed and pissed off. If you're not familiar with something how about doing a little research. Google is your friend. Just saying.
Many thanks and hugs to Melanie for reading this book with me and listening to my endless complaints! 💖
The Reunion of Cupid and Psyche by Jean Pierre Saint-Ours
Rated R for Rant
The official review is over and here comes the list of all the things that annoyed the living hell out of me. If you can't cope with my bitchy side just stop reading here because I have to get this frustration out of me. Keeping this in a spoiler, so I won't ruin the book for those who had no problem with anything in the story. If you loved the book, you don't need to read this massacre.
Oh my, where to start. The thing is that I really liked some parts of this book and I completely hated the other parts. As everyone probably already knows, I'm kind of obsessed with mythology. Like I very seriously devoted fan of everything mythological. So, I'm always torn when it comes to retellings - will I like it, will I have too high expectations, will I be annoyed with the changes and incorrections? I've been in love with Eros and Psyche's story since I've read The Golden Ass and I adore the original myth very much. Now imagine the dilemma when I came across this book. But eventually, it lured me in and I couldn't wait to finally get my hands on it.
Eros and Psyche by Antonio Canova
The beginning of the story was bad, really bad but I will return to this later. Actually, the entire first part was pretty boring and uneventful. The plot was impossibly and necessarily stretched and sometimes didn't have much sense. I could totally relate to the feeling of this wedding procession because I was almost bored to death. (If you're wondering why this wedding procession looks like a funeral, read the book *wink*)
Psyche's Wedding by Pre-Raphaelite painter Edward Burne-Jones
Also, I didn't get why this book has so many YA vibes. In the beginning, Psyche was a lot like a typical YA heroine. She had wonderful character development later on which was beautifully done. However, I still don't understand why so many mythology retellings are YA. You know, Greek mythology is full of incest, revenge killings, eating babies, bestiality, and Zeus having sex in all possible imaginable forms and few unimaginable ones (golden rain, anyone?) It doesn't make sense to try to transform this into YA.
Anyway, fortunately, part two and part three were very well written. Finally, we got Cupid's POV (somehow late but better late than never), and seeing things from his point brought a new dynamic into the story. And, of course, part three was the interesting one, where the book came the closest to the original myth. It was brilliant and I loved it even if the ending dragged a little. But I must admit that Cupid and Psyche needed some quality time together and a good conclusion to their story. It was just too bad that we didn't see the wedding feast and Psyche given butterfly wings. I think those scenes were quite important and I would gladly exchange them for the epilogue.
Wedding Banquet of Cupid and Psyche by Raffaelo
Overall, it was a nice read. The second part of the book definitely aided with the rating rounding up. Without the weak start, this could be an excellent book but there were just too many mistakes that I couldn't overlook. I know that many things that bothered me weren't that much important to the story but I was really annoyed and pissed off. If you're not familiar with something how about doing a little research. Google is your friend. Just saying.
Many thanks and hugs to Melanie for reading this book with me and listening to my endless complaints! 💖
The Reunion of Cupid and Psyche by Jean Pierre Saint-Ours
Rated R for Rant
The official review is over and here comes the list of all the things that annoyed the living hell out of me. If you can't cope with my bitchy side just stop reading here because I have to get this frustration out of me. Keeping this in a spoiler, so I won't ruin the book for those who had no problem with anything in the story. If you loved the book, you don't need to read this massacre.
July 24, 2019
3.5 STARS!
Though Soul in Darkness wasn't a resounding success for me, it did have some really stellar moments toward the end.
Psyche is known far and wide for her incredible beauty, but . . .
The first half, however, I did not think was successful. If this hadn't been a buddy read with Monique, I probably would have DNF'd.
First, there was just too much TELL instead of SHOW, with dialogue making up a very small percentage of the writing.
And second, I thought the reader was given WAY too much information. With EVERYONE knowing what was going on except Psyche (1) it completely deflated the tension, and (2) Psyche was made to look the fool again and again which gave the story a very YA vibe despite the very dark overtones.
Now normally I love a good dark read, but here the darkness felt forced. I didn't understand why the God of Love thought the best way to handle the situation between him and Psyche was to I mean, why wouldn't he try to Now, possibly the author was trying to make the point that Cupid didn't understand humans, but because we didn't have Cupid's POV, in this regard, I thought Ms. Higgins really missed the target. (yes, pun intended, :-)
BUT, as I said, the author really pulled it out of the bag (or improved her aim, lol) later on in the story . . . so glad I didn't DNF! Thank you, MONIQUE for reading with me! <3
"It is your soul I love."Overall verdict: I'm glad I read it!
Though Soul in Darkness wasn't a resounding success for me, it did have some really stellar moments toward the end.
Psyche is known far and wide for her incredible beauty, but . . .
I had always resented the fact that my appearance was the only thing people found worthy about me.Cupid, the God of Love is sent by his mother, Venus to handle this upstart of a girl who is stealing her spotlight. Cupid finds himself charmed by Psyche and goes against his mother's wishes.
"Is love not a madness?"It all devolves into a twisted, manipulative game between Cupid and Venus with Psyche as the pawn.
No creatures were as easily bored, distracted, or ungrateful as humans. Except, perhaps, gods.So I REALLY enjoyed the second half of this book, so much so that I'm rounding up without hesitation! Everything came together and I was left with a pleasant glow of satisfaction when the story ended.
The first half, however, I did not think was successful. If this hadn't been a buddy read with Monique, I probably would have DNF'd.
First, there was just too much TELL instead of SHOW, with dialogue making up a very small percentage of the writing.
And second, I thought the reader was given WAY too much information. With EVERYONE knowing what was going on except Psyche (1) it completely deflated the tension, and (2) Psyche was made to look the fool again and again which gave the story a very YA vibe despite the very dark overtones.
Now normally I love a good dark read, but here the darkness felt forced. I didn't understand why the God of Love thought the best way to handle the situation between him and Psyche was to I mean, why wouldn't he try to Now, possibly the author was trying to make the point that Cupid didn't understand humans, but because we didn't have Cupid's POV, in this regard, I thought Ms. Higgins really missed the target. (yes, pun intended, :-)
BUT, as I said, the author really pulled it out of the bag (or improved her aim, lol) later on in the story . . . so glad I didn't DNF! Thank you, MONIQUE for reading with me! <3
March 9, 2019
4 stars
I ordered Soul in Darkness after having read Raven (@dreamyaddiction)’s review. We have similar tastes in book and I will meet Wendy Higgins at a book event in a few weeks. What better reason to make a dent in my book budget right?
I am not a huge fan of mythology and did not know the story of Cupid and Psyche.
From the synopsis and Raven’s review I got that Psyche was incredibly beautiful and that her beauty earned her people’s love. She got offerings like a goddess and that soon angered Venus!
Even I know never to anger a god or a goddess for fear of their wrath!
Happened what would happen: Venus’s revenge.
Psyche’s punishment was to be married to a monster, only coming to her at night.
Honestly should have I been in Psysche’s shoes I would have reacted in a totally different way!
Psyche is gorgeous but the offering and worship of her people feel wrong to her (would have I resisted the trinkets and baubles????).
She does not think she deserves them. Only the gods should be revered, not her! See! She is not vain while I would maybe have pranced and basked in people’s admiration LOL
She is also disheartened as men don’t seem to pay attention to her mind or seem interested in her conversation. They become a blubbering mess, dazzled by her beauty. Mesmerized and unable of intelligent and stimulating conversation.
This shows that Psyche was at odd with her time when women were asked to be pretty and that’s it!
Psyche wanted more. She did not want to be admired for her beauty. She wanted someone to talk to. In this she was a modern woman!
When she will hear of her fate, she will accept it. Because she recognizes that her parents and her people wronged the gods. She had always told people she should not be idolized!
“The gods have spoken. Hers will be a funeral wedding to a dark-deeded winged serpent. Many call him a monster. Your dear Psyche will call him Husband.”
Well I would have tried to flee! I would have thought it was their fault, not mine. I never asked for this.
That’s the difference between Psyche’s soul and my soul I guess. Hers shone bright.
That’s no wonder her husband will try to earn her trust and affection!
I really had a good time reading this novel.
Psyche was a bright soul, a kind person and a solar personality. She was brave too as she had to face more than her monster of a husband and did it chin high!
I loved reading about jealous goddesses and tricks played on humans. Yet I wondered why they were revered and worshipped when they did not set example! Jealousy and pettiness wasn’t uncommon. These are not attractive traits to me and I would again probably not have made offerings to these volatile beings!
Lucky for me I was not born at Psyche’s time as I would have been cursed many times by the gods!
I also loved the topic of true beauty being your inner beauty. Psyche will have to learn to trust and feel affection for her husband without seeing nor touching him. And he will have to earn her love without the usual tricks used in seduction: beauty, smooth voice etc.
Psyche will have a hard time not knowing If she should trust her mind or her instincts. They will be at war faced with her husband’s kindness, consideration and his masterful dealing (imagine all that you want you are right 😉 )of his wife.
It was a very enjoyable tale of true beauty, courage, kindness and love. And it also made me realize that Venus would be the mother in law from hell! I so much prefer my own mother in law!
Do you love reading about mythology? Have you read other Wendy Higgins books?
Thanks for reading!
Sophie
Find me on:
Wordpress: Beware Of The Reader
Facebook: Beware Of The Reader
Facebook group : Beware Book Boyfriends Alert
Instagram: @bewareofthereader
Twitter: @BewareOffReader
I ordered Soul in Darkness after having read Raven (@dreamyaddiction)’s review. We have similar tastes in book and I will meet Wendy Higgins at a book event in a few weeks. What better reason to make a dent in my book budget right?
I am not a huge fan of mythology and did not know the story of Cupid and Psyche.
From the synopsis and Raven’s review I got that Psyche was incredibly beautiful and that her beauty earned her people’s love. She got offerings like a goddess and that soon angered Venus!
Even I know never to anger a god or a goddess for fear of their wrath!
Happened what would happen: Venus’s revenge.
Psyche’s punishment was to be married to a monster, only coming to her at night.
Honestly should have I been in Psysche’s shoes I would have reacted in a totally different way!
Psyche is gorgeous but the offering and worship of her people feel wrong to her (would have I resisted the trinkets and baubles????).
She does not think she deserves them. Only the gods should be revered, not her! See! She is not vain while I would maybe have pranced and basked in people’s admiration LOL
She is also disheartened as men don’t seem to pay attention to her mind or seem interested in her conversation. They become a blubbering mess, dazzled by her beauty. Mesmerized and unable of intelligent and stimulating conversation.
This shows that Psyche was at odd with her time when women were asked to be pretty and that’s it!
Psyche wanted more. She did not want to be admired for her beauty. She wanted someone to talk to. In this she was a modern woman!
When she will hear of her fate, she will accept it. Because she recognizes that her parents and her people wronged the gods. She had always told people she should not be idolized!
“The gods have spoken. Hers will be a funeral wedding to a dark-deeded winged serpent. Many call him a monster. Your dear Psyche will call him Husband.”
Well I would have tried to flee! I would have thought it was their fault, not mine. I never asked for this.
That’s the difference between Psyche’s soul and my soul I guess. Hers shone bright.
That’s no wonder her husband will try to earn her trust and affection!
I really had a good time reading this novel.
Psyche was a bright soul, a kind person and a solar personality. She was brave too as she had to face more than her monster of a husband and did it chin high!
I loved reading about jealous goddesses and tricks played on humans. Yet I wondered why they were revered and worshipped when they did not set example! Jealousy and pettiness wasn’t uncommon. These are not attractive traits to me and I would again probably not have made offerings to these volatile beings!
Lucky for me I was not born at Psyche’s time as I would have been cursed many times by the gods!
I also loved the topic of true beauty being your inner beauty. Psyche will have to learn to trust and feel affection for her husband without seeing nor touching him. And he will have to earn her love without the usual tricks used in seduction: beauty, smooth voice etc.
Psyche will have a hard time not knowing If she should trust her mind or her instincts. They will be at war faced with her husband’s kindness, consideration and his masterful dealing (imagine all that you want you are right 😉 )of his wife.
It was a very enjoyable tale of true beauty, courage, kindness and love. And it also made me realize that Venus would be the mother in law from hell! I so much prefer my own mother in law!
Do you love reading about mythology? Have you read other Wendy Higgins books?
Thanks for reading!
Sophie
Find me on:
Wordpress: Beware Of The Reader
Facebook: Beware Of The Reader
Facebook group : Beware Book Boyfriends Alert
Instagram: @bewareofthereader
Twitter: @BewareOffReader
January 7, 2019
4.5-5 stars – SO, so good! I love mythology retellings, and this Cupid/Psyche retelling was brilliant and beautifully written. I fell so hard for the story and felt for the struggle Psyche faces with her unknown husband. It's a pure, romantic read I highly recommend!
Full review to come!
Thanks to the author for generously providing me an ARC to review.
Full review to come!
Thanks to the author for generously providing me an ARC to review.
April 16, 2019
This might have been a two-star review, might, if I hadn't also had to endure Psyche being maybe five days pregnant and suddenly acting like she's in her third trimester. Really, the over-glorification and glamorization of pregnancy and motherhood taking place here are sickening enough, but what I really can't stand are these romances that can't seem to go without throwing a damn baby in the mix like it's the only One True Happy Ending that women could ever have or ever strive for. Heaven forbid a couple have time to get to know each other before the bouncing baby brat arrives.
If I sound bitter, it was because this was the final nail in a coffin already chock full of nails. I can't believe someone could take the Cupid/Psyche myth--could take a mortal/immortal relationship and a monster romance--and make it utterly boring. Not just boring, but childish. Reading from Psyche's POV was like reading from a hysterical 12-year-old rather than a 17-year-old princess who's fearful of her situation but mature enough to handle it. That last part kind of matters to me since this book also deals with the mature topics of, y'know, explicit sex. (And yet, the sex was bad and immature, too...)
But no. Instead of a potentially dark, mature romance, I had to suffer through an already flaccid, whipped god pinning pathetically after a shrieking girl, whose "purity" and "innocence" could only be shown by making her as childlike as possible. Talking to and giggling with trees. Swimming with dolphins. Being gifted with a puppy and kitten because she's so afraid and lonely. Reading this was sickening. I seriously need people to understand that showing purity and naiveté in a character goes beyond letting animals like them and having them act like they're 12.
In fact, there was barely anything about this Psyche that made her interesting. I couldn't tell you why Cupid fell in love with her other than her "bright soul" because there was nothing to her except being beautiful and "pure," whatever that actually means. As for Cupid himself, here is a case of an author creating a character with a "bad boy persona," except the reader never actually sees him do anything bad. We hear about the bad things he's done "in the past," but that's it. Other than his insta-love for his romantic interest, there's nothing else there. Nothing but the sad, frail illusion of danger that has absolutely no substance.
Also, what time period is this actually taking place in? What tone does this book want to have? I can't tell you, because in between trying to have Pretentious Old World Ways of Speaking, the prose and dialogue throw anachronistic speech all over the place. My head whiplashed at Psyche telling Cupid to "have a good day at work" when she still thought he was a winged serpent (despite the fact that she constantly noted hearing his footsteps, and what kind of serpent has feet???) and then again when Venus said that killing humans "wasn't her style." I'm sorry, is this Ancient Rome or the 1950s in the U.S.? Where am I?
So anyway, maybe there's people out there who'll dig this, and if so, good for you. I, on the other hand, need so much more, and I've been told I'm honestly not hard to please--my bar is so low. So when it's time to bury me, I want the romance genre to carry my coffin so it can let me down one last time.
If I sound bitter, it was because this was the final nail in a coffin already chock full of nails. I can't believe someone could take the Cupid/Psyche myth--could take a mortal/immortal relationship and a monster romance--and make it utterly boring. Not just boring, but childish. Reading from Psyche's POV was like reading from a hysterical 12-year-old rather than a 17-year-old princess who's fearful of her situation but mature enough to handle it. That last part kind of matters to me since this book also deals with the mature topics of, y'know, explicit sex. (And yet, the sex was bad and immature, too...)
But no. Instead of a potentially dark, mature romance, I had to suffer through an already flaccid, whipped god pinning pathetically after a shrieking girl, whose "purity" and "innocence" could only be shown by making her as childlike as possible. Talking to and giggling with trees. Swimming with dolphins. Being gifted with a puppy and kitten because she's so afraid and lonely. Reading this was sickening. I seriously need people to understand that showing purity and naiveté in a character goes beyond letting animals like them and having them act like they're 12.
In fact, there was barely anything about this Psyche that made her interesting. I couldn't tell you why Cupid fell in love with her other than her "bright soul" because there was nothing to her except being beautiful and "pure," whatever that actually means. As for Cupid himself, here is a case of an author creating a character with a "bad boy persona," except the reader never actually sees him do anything bad. We hear about the bad things he's done "in the past," but that's it. Other than his insta-love for his romantic interest, there's nothing else there. Nothing but the sad, frail illusion of danger that has absolutely no substance.
Also, what time period is this actually taking place in? What tone does this book want to have? I can't tell you, because in between trying to have Pretentious Old World Ways of Speaking, the prose and dialogue throw anachronistic speech all over the place. My head whiplashed at Psyche telling Cupid to "have a good day at work" when she still thought he was a winged serpent (despite the fact that she constantly noted hearing his footsteps, and what kind of serpent has feet???) and then again when Venus said that killing humans "wasn't her style." I'm sorry, is this Ancient Rome or the 1950s in the U.S.? Where am I?
So anyway, maybe there's people out there who'll dig this, and if so, good for you. I, on the other hand, need so much more, and I've been told I'm honestly not hard to please--my bar is so low. So when it's time to bury me, I want the romance genre to carry my coffin so it can let me down one last time.
February 18, 2019
In every person I met, every new face, I sought the one who would finally lock eyes with me and see through to my soul within. --Psyche
I am so amazed and blessed that I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this lovely novel as it was my most anticipated read of 2019! It was everything I hoped it would be and more, so thank you, Wendy!
SOUL IN DARKNESS tells the impossible love story of Psyche, a mere mortal, and Cupid, the god of love. Princess Psyche is renowned for her extraordinary beauty and kind heart by her townsfolk, so much so that they have begun to offer their gifts of gratitude to Psyche and not the gods who care for them. The goddess Venus, not known for her mercy, is extremely angered by this and threatens Psyche's family and all under their care if she does not allow herself to be married to a horrible beast. Little does she know, Psyche actually marries Cupid but is unable to see, touch, or hear her Husband's true voice and genuinely believes him to be a horrid beast of Olympus. As she spends more time with her Husband and his undeniable passion, her feelings toward him begin to shift. However, Psyche soon learns that any dealings with the gods are never as they seem, and she is forced to face the wrath of Venus and determine what she ultimately wants.
"I'm going to trust my instincts," I said softly. "Maybe that makes me a fool, but I can't continue to live in fear. I wasn't built that way. I want to trust you. I want to...work with you. As a team. To do whatever it is we are meant to do." --Psyche
I admit that it took me a couple of chapters to fully immerse myself into this story, but once it started flowing, I found myself completely entranced. I loved how genuine all of the characters were--no one was perfect and each character had their positive attributes and their faults. Psyche was such a strong heroine and I loved her tenacity in the face of such powerful beings, while Cupid wasn't afraid of showing his vulnerability. Even the other gods and goddesses were shown in all of their perfect, jealous, and vindictive natures, and that just made the story even more captivating. This novel is beyond SEXY, surprising, thoroughly gorgeous and heartfelt, and full of adventure and angry gods. Definitely recommend this fantastic novel from one of my favorite authors!
My Cupid, god of love and mischief :)
With his wings...
February 15, 2020
I received an e-ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review. Review can be found on *Milky Way of Books*
Ah the beauty of reading a book inspired by mythology! The story of Eros and Psyche has transcended time and is known as one of the few stories where a god and a human do actually have a happy ending. Inspired by the Latin work which chronicles the trials of Psyche after she falls in love with Eros, son of Aphrodite, Wendy Higgins delivers a stand-alone Adult book filled with emotion, the different aspects of human nature and godly jealousy. The author also mentions that because she is inspired by the Latin work Eros here he has his Latin name, Cupid.
If you are familiar with the myth then you'll pretty much expect the story to be similar to the one you have read. If not then the book is fresh in details, rich world-building and also it takes place somewhere in the Roman times.
Psyche is the third daughter of a Greek king of an island. Born with exceptional beauty and while she loves her family dearly she longs to find love in someone who will not love for only for her appearance but for the person she really is. She is not vain; on the contrary, she thinks her beauty a curse. And when a prophecy comes after the slow decay of her island, she will be wed into a winged monster and sent to live in a magical mansion with him.
I'm trying not to spoil anything here! (the historian in me longs to spoil instead)
What I noticed in the book was also the consequences the human actions had in relation to the gods. And that's something you don't clearly see in the original myth. Because Psyche is so pretty her parents refer to her 'as beautiful as a goddess'. That my friends is hubris and hubris always has bad outcomes. And the best part? Psyche is the one to bitch-slap, metaphorically, her parents into going back to their offerings towards the gods. Few mortals committed hubris and lived to tell the tale.
The story is steady, with action and emotional development for all characters and since this book is NOT a YA, expect the steamy scenes *fans herself*. Plus many consider the myth to be the predecessor to Beauty and the Beast so double the joy!
The ending was sweet and satisfactory. Wendy Higgins outdoes herself with this amazing book! I haven't felt the same since the ending of her "Sweet Evil" series or her "Undone" series! If you are a lover of mythology then this is the book for you!
Ah the beauty of reading a book inspired by mythology! The story of Eros and Psyche has transcended time and is known as one of the few stories where a god and a human do actually have a happy ending. Inspired by the Latin work which chronicles the trials of Psyche after she falls in love with Eros, son of Aphrodite, Wendy Higgins delivers a stand-alone Adult book filled with emotion, the different aspects of human nature and godly jealousy. The author also mentions that because she is inspired by the Latin work Eros here he has his Latin name, Cupid.
If you are familiar with the myth then you'll pretty much expect the story to be similar to the one you have read. If not then the book is fresh in details, rich world-building and also it takes place somewhere in the Roman times.
Psyche is the third daughter of a Greek king of an island. Born with exceptional beauty and while she loves her family dearly she longs to find love in someone who will not love for only for her appearance but for the person she really is. She is not vain; on the contrary, she thinks her beauty a curse. And when a prophecy comes after the slow decay of her island, she will be wed into a winged monster and sent to live in a magical mansion with him.
I'm trying not to spoil anything here! (the historian in me longs to spoil instead)
What I noticed in the book was also the consequences the human actions had in relation to the gods. And that's something you don't clearly see in the original myth. Because Psyche is so pretty her parents refer to her 'as beautiful as a goddess'. That my friends is hubris and hubris always has bad outcomes. And the best part? Psyche is the one to bitch-slap, metaphorically, her parents into going back to their offerings towards the gods. Few mortals committed hubris and lived to tell the tale.
The story is steady, with action and emotional development for all characters and since this book is NOT a YA, expect the steamy scenes *fans herself*. Plus many consider the myth to be the predecessor to Beauty and the Beast so double the joy!
The ending was sweet and satisfactory. Wendy Higgins outdoes herself with this amazing book! I haven't felt the same since the ending of her "Sweet Evil" series or her "Undone" series! If you are a lover of mythology then this is the book for you!
February 10, 2019
You can find this review and others on my blog shades of paper
I admit I was so excited to read this book because I’m pretty sure it’s the first Eros and Psyque retelling I’ve come across, and I adore that myth, so I went with very high expectations into it, and I have to say that I really enjoyed it, and think it was a nice take on the original tale.
Now I would say that if you’re looking a more historically accurate representation of the society, you might be disappointed, because though we got a fair view of the world and the religion, it was mostly a romance based type of story. There wasn’t much background information about the roman mythology nor the history, just what had to do with the myth, and I was a bit sad to see that, because I would have loved to read more about the world in that period. However, if you’re not a fan of mythology and just want an angsty romance, this might be a good thing for you.
Despite those minor issues I had, I must say that the romance was so good. The characters were so flawed but complex and had a lot of layers, and boy oh boy, wasn’t the romance angsty! I feel that slow burning and angsty romances tend to be my favorite ones, and this hit all the marks. I really enjoyed the dynamics between the characters and the chemistry they had and how it slowly progressed throughout the story, and the solace they found in the other as I kept reading the book.
I found that Soul in Darkness was also a very atmospheric type of story. The descriptions were pretty detailed and it made it so easy for the reader to imagine what was happening and the landscapes of the story, and it made the tone very lyrical but mysterious at the same time.
Overall, I really enjoyed her take on the myth and how complex the characters were, and obviously the romance. I would say that if you’re familiar with the myth, you might not be as surprised, but that’s the thing about retellings, so I can’t really complain about that.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you so much to the author for the opportunity. This doesn’t change my opinion or thoughts about it.
Actual rating: 3.7⭐️
“Sometimes”, he said, “we fear that which we should embrace because we do not know better.”
I admit I was so excited to read this book because I’m pretty sure it’s the first Eros and Psyque retelling I’ve come across, and I adore that myth, so I went with very high expectations into it, and I have to say that I really enjoyed it, and think it was a nice take on the original tale.
Now I would say that if you’re looking a more historically accurate representation of the society, you might be disappointed, because though we got a fair view of the world and the religion, it was mostly a romance based type of story. There wasn’t much background information about the roman mythology nor the history, just what had to do with the myth, and I was a bit sad to see that, because I would have loved to read more about the world in that period. However, if you’re not a fan of mythology and just want an angsty romance, this might be a good thing for you.
Despite those minor issues I had, I must say that the romance was so good. The characters were so flawed but complex and had a lot of layers, and boy oh boy, wasn’t the romance angsty! I feel that slow burning and angsty romances tend to be my favorite ones, and this hit all the marks. I really enjoyed the dynamics between the characters and the chemistry they had and how it slowly progressed throughout the story, and the solace they found in the other as I kept reading the book.
I found that Soul in Darkness was also a very atmospheric type of story. The descriptions were pretty detailed and it made it so easy for the reader to imagine what was happening and the landscapes of the story, and it made the tone very lyrical but mysterious at the same time.
Overall, I really enjoyed her take on the myth and how complex the characters were, and obviously the romance. I would say that if you’re familiar with the myth, you might not be as surprised, but that’s the thing about retellings, so I can’t really complain about that.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you so much to the author for the opportunity. This doesn’t change my opinion or thoughts about it.
Actual rating: 3.7⭐️
June 8, 2019
If anyone had asked me how I felt during the first part of the book my exact words would have been "Look outside, listen carefully and you will see my expectations crashing and burning to dust", but the next two parts were the game changer. To be more specific, it was entirely Cupid's feelings which urged me to forgo my three star rating and give in to four stars.
I love a good story involving the greek or roman Gods and this one focusing on Cupid, was the cherry on top. It was endearing to witness the maternal side of Venus, it makes you realise that God or mortal, every parent goes through a bout of irrationality to do what is best for their child. However, this did not help to ease the anger I felt towards Venus as she laid task after task in front of Psyche to prove her worthy of loving a God, namely her son.
I strongly believe that the beginning of ANY book, sets the readers (at least my) thoughts and opinions of the book and I am sorry to say that the opening of this book was a major let down. The plot was definitely intriguing, a beautiful retell of the love story between a God and a mortal.. but the beginning did not do justice to it. It simply did not spark my interest, I would have liked to read a little less about Psyche's thoughts and more on Cupid's.
I love a good story involving the greek or roman Gods and this one focusing on Cupid, was the cherry on top. It was endearing to witness the maternal side of Venus, it makes you realise that God or mortal, every parent goes through a bout of irrationality to do what is best for their child. However, this did not help to ease the anger I felt towards Venus as she laid task after task in front of Psyche to prove her worthy of loving a God, namely her son.
I strongly believe that the beginning of ANY book, sets the readers (at least my) thoughts and opinions of the book and I am sorry to say that the opening of this book was a major let down. The plot was definitely intriguing, a beautiful retell of the love story between a God and a mortal.. but the beginning did not do justice to it. It simply did not spark my interest, I would have liked to read a little less about Psyche's thoughts and more on Cupid's.
June 29, 2018
Yaay! The queen of PNR is coming up with a new book! I need it now! 2019 come and hurry up!
January 17, 2019
I just love LOVE. I love everlasting love even more.
I've been waiting for Soul in Darkness since Wendy Higgins released the news to us months ago. The cover is physical PERFECTION... kind of like Psyche herself.
SUMMARY:
Wendy Higgins' standalone "Soul in Darkness" is based on the Roman/Greek mythology of Cupid and Psyche. I did a bit of historical pre-reading before diving into this baby, trying to remember every bit of history I could from that one global studies class I took my sophomore year of college (disappointedly, I had minimal success on my own). Luckily, the novel is written for those of us with very little knowledge of Roman/Greek mythology, and I was able to follow along with ease. I have no doubt readers with absolutely no knowledge of the myth could read the novel and enjoy it but having some background knowledge (even a little bit!) would make readers appreciate the story progression so much more. I wasn't aware of the roots of "Beauty and the Beast" until now!
Our protagonist is Psyche - she's kind of impossible NOT to like. Even the trees like her, for gods' sakes. Her physical beauty dominated much of the opinions of those around her, to her disappointment. At one point she compares herself to "a piece of art hanging in our castle to be gazed upon," objectifying herself the way everyone else does. Just when we think every man is trash - including her sister's husband! - a gorgeous, mysterious stranger comes along that restores our protagonist's faith in men. As Psyche enters her courting and marrying year, she considers her standards for her future husband, admitting she simply wants someone who will listen to her childhood story the way the mysterious stranger at the market did. She starts comparing all the men she meets to him, and finds her romantic suitors are all somehow unexpectedly and suddenly whisked away. Venus, the god of love and beauty, is being ignored because Psyche is being worshiped by people on Earth. Venus gets mad, sends her son Cupid to destroy Psyche and her entire family, and he falls in love with her, pricking himself on his own arrow and, while the poison eventually fades, his love for her consumes him. Sh*t hits the fan and the book took a surprising turn when we met quite a few deities as Psyche tried to earn back her favor after her frustrating, albeit very human, betrayal of Cupid.
THINGS I LOVED:
1. I LOVED the allusions at the start of the chapters! Especially the “Love looks not with the eyes, but with the mind and therefore is winged Cupid painted blind.” I think this particular allusion sets up the whole book– it could totally take precedence over any of the others, in my opinion. I think there’s something awe-inspiring when we read with the knowledge that writing is forever… literature inspires, and clearly SID is a product of such inspiration. Just a personal love of mine.
2. The sexy. I LOVED the sexy. Selfishly, I've always wanted Wendy Higgins to write a more New Adult or Adult novel, because I prefer stories with a bit more sexy than most YA's usually have. I would classify SID as New Adult (MAYBE adult, but the language wasn't explicit enough for me to fully classify this as "adult"). The sex scenes were sensual and what could be described as "tasteful." The eroticism of Cupid's character was well done and absolutely necessary to the development of this novel. Smut-haters always claim that sex isn’t necessary to stories but here, I have no doubt everyone can agree our protagonists needed every line of sexiness.
3. Psyche's pets. I thought they were such unexpected sources of happiness for Psyche during her time of loneliness in the palace, and they brought a very realistic touch to the otherwise ethereal setting.
4. Cupid’s POV – see below for my “wish list” for this element of the story!
THINGS I LIKED:
1. I wasn't sure what to think of Cupid for a while. The dramatic irony - that we know who the mysterious creature spending nights with Psyche is - made it difficult to not want to shake Psyche while she worked through her fear and resentment and anger. The first intimate moment they shared together did, like Cupid admitted, feel a bit forced.
2. The scene with the trees I adored – it felt so childlike, yet not infantilizing. I think innocence is often confused with immaturity, and Psyche’s character rejects that notion. Toward the end, when she briefly returns home to the isle, she jumps off her favorite cliff into the lagoon and comments on it being her “last jump for a while.” I don't think this suggests her childlike exuberance for life has been abandoned – we should all play with the trees once in a while; rather, she is hit with a realistic sense of adulthood and womanhood that is more than playing with dolphins and puppies. BUT, we can be sensual, confident women and wives and mothers and still partake in innocent pleasures. I wish that idea were a little more prevalent.
THINGS I WISH WERE DIFFERENT:
1. I wish we had more of Cupid’s POV from the very beginning – I really think this could help balance some of Cupid’s actions and motives when he was the unknown Husband. We already know the story and what’s going on, so the story could have exploited that dramatic irony to better connect us to Cupid.
I wonder how the story would read if we had switching POVs every chapter, or every other chapter, even, instead of getting his input toward the end as all hell broke loose. I think it might have helped us like him, root for him, even during those moments he seemed a bit TOO demanding… like when he declared he would sleep in Psyche’s presence at night despite her protests, for one.
2. I wish we started the book with the knowledge Venus was pissed off. The Prologue tells us about how she was conceived and how her beauty captivates men and how her parents took to the temple in worship to pray for fertility… but I wish we had a tiny snippet of Venus’ anger to start the impending doom earlier on. Even something as simple as “As psyche grew more beautiful, Venus’ temples emptied, her gifts instead bestowed to the mortal to which she granted life.” Something about Cupid watching her too would have been cool.
3. I want more about Psyche’s sisters! Dawn’s jealously could have been played up a lot more. I kind of feel like their story is a little bit unfinished from the way it was left at the end.
Overall opinion:
I really enjoyed “Soul in Darkness!” Definitely a very strong 4-star read. The writing has such a fantastical tone, and I’m a bit blown away by Wendy Higgins’ ability to adjust her voice and tone to every single story she writes while keeping the style unique to her. I would recommend this book to fans of New Adult, romance, mythology and animals, because I found myself desperately wanting to pet my dog the entire time.
I can’t wait to see what’s next.
*E-ARC received by Kristina Rovison in exchange for honest review*
I've been waiting for Soul in Darkness since Wendy Higgins released the news to us months ago. The cover is physical PERFECTION... kind of like Psyche herself.
SUMMARY:
Wendy Higgins' standalone "Soul in Darkness" is based on the Roman/Greek mythology of Cupid and Psyche. I did a bit of historical pre-reading before diving into this baby, trying to remember every bit of history I could from that one global studies class I took my sophomore year of college (disappointedly, I had minimal success on my own). Luckily, the novel is written for those of us with very little knowledge of Roman/Greek mythology, and I was able to follow along with ease. I have no doubt readers with absolutely no knowledge of the myth could read the novel and enjoy it but having some background knowledge (even a little bit!) would make readers appreciate the story progression so much more. I wasn't aware of the roots of "Beauty and the Beast" until now!
Our protagonist is Psyche - she's kind of impossible NOT to like. Even the trees like her, for gods' sakes. Her physical beauty dominated much of the opinions of those around her, to her disappointment. At one point she compares herself to "a piece of art hanging in our castle to be gazed upon," objectifying herself the way everyone else does. Just when we think every man is trash - including her sister's husband! - a gorgeous, mysterious stranger comes along that restores our protagonist's faith in men. As Psyche enters her courting and marrying year, she considers her standards for her future husband, admitting she simply wants someone who will listen to her childhood story the way the mysterious stranger at the market did. She starts comparing all the men she meets to him, and finds her romantic suitors are all somehow unexpectedly and suddenly whisked away. Venus, the god of love and beauty, is being ignored because Psyche is being worshiped by people on Earth. Venus gets mad, sends her son Cupid to destroy Psyche and her entire family, and he falls in love with her, pricking himself on his own arrow and, while the poison eventually fades, his love for her consumes him. Sh*t hits the fan and the book took a surprising turn when we met quite a few deities as Psyche tried to earn back her favor after her frustrating, albeit very human, betrayal of Cupid.
THINGS I LOVED:
1. I LOVED the allusions at the start of the chapters! Especially the “Love looks not with the eyes, but with the mind and therefore is winged Cupid painted blind.” I think this particular allusion sets up the whole book– it could totally take precedence over any of the others, in my opinion. I think there’s something awe-inspiring when we read with the knowledge that writing is forever… literature inspires, and clearly SID is a product of such inspiration. Just a personal love of mine.
2. The sexy. I LOVED the sexy. Selfishly, I've always wanted Wendy Higgins to write a more New Adult or Adult novel, because I prefer stories with a bit more sexy than most YA's usually have. I would classify SID as New Adult (MAYBE adult, but the language wasn't explicit enough for me to fully classify this as "adult"). The sex scenes were sensual and what could be described as "tasteful." The eroticism of Cupid's character was well done and absolutely necessary to the development of this novel. Smut-haters always claim that sex isn’t necessary to stories but here, I have no doubt everyone can agree our protagonists needed every line of sexiness.
3. Psyche's pets. I thought they were such unexpected sources of happiness for Psyche during her time of loneliness in the palace, and they brought a very realistic touch to the otherwise ethereal setting.
4. Cupid’s POV – see below for my “wish list” for this element of the story!
THINGS I LIKED:
1. I wasn't sure what to think of Cupid for a while. The dramatic irony - that we know who the mysterious creature spending nights with Psyche is - made it difficult to not want to shake Psyche while she worked through her fear and resentment and anger. The first intimate moment they shared together did, like Cupid admitted, feel a bit forced.
2. The scene with the trees I adored – it felt so childlike, yet not infantilizing. I think innocence is often confused with immaturity, and Psyche’s character rejects that notion. Toward the end, when she briefly returns home to the isle, she jumps off her favorite cliff into the lagoon and comments on it being her “last jump for a while.” I don't think this suggests her childlike exuberance for life has been abandoned – we should all play with the trees once in a while; rather, she is hit with a realistic sense of adulthood and womanhood that is more than playing with dolphins and puppies. BUT, we can be sensual, confident women and wives and mothers and still partake in innocent pleasures. I wish that idea were a little more prevalent.
THINGS I WISH WERE DIFFERENT:
1. I wish we had more of Cupid’s POV from the very beginning – I really think this could help balance some of Cupid’s actions and motives when he was the unknown Husband. We already know the story and what’s going on, so the story could have exploited that dramatic irony to better connect us to Cupid.
I wonder how the story would read if we had switching POVs every chapter, or every other chapter, even, instead of getting his input toward the end as all hell broke loose. I think it might have helped us like him, root for him, even during those moments he seemed a bit TOO demanding… like when he declared he would sleep in Psyche’s presence at night despite her protests, for one.
2. I wish we started the book with the knowledge Venus was pissed off. The Prologue tells us about how she was conceived and how her beauty captivates men and how her parents took to the temple in worship to pray for fertility… but I wish we had a tiny snippet of Venus’ anger to start the impending doom earlier on. Even something as simple as “As psyche grew more beautiful, Venus’ temples emptied, her gifts instead bestowed to the mortal to which she granted life.” Something about Cupid watching her too would have been cool.
3. I want more about Psyche’s sisters! Dawn’s jealously could have been played up a lot more. I kind of feel like their story is a little bit unfinished from the way it was left at the end.
Overall opinion:
I really enjoyed “Soul in Darkness!” Definitely a very strong 4-star read. The writing has such a fantastical tone, and I’m a bit blown away by Wendy Higgins’ ability to adjust her voice and tone to every single story she writes while keeping the style unique to her. I would recommend this book to fans of New Adult, romance, mythology and animals, because I found myself desperately wanting to pet my dog the entire time.
I can’t wait to see what’s next.
*E-ARC received by Kristina Rovison in exchange for honest review*
January 8, 2019
Awww this book. I always look forward to one of Wendy's stories. She writes the most amazing ones. Especially these retellings. Between this now, and the The Great Hunt duet. I cannot wait to see where her awesome head will go on the next retell.
But where to start on this actual book. It's easy to say it's designed wonderfully. Since the basis of it is already laid out so well. But the way Wendy spun it. How she created it into her own story was great. She gave so much more depth and feeling to these ancient characters. And I loved getting swept up in this book. And boy did I.
Less then 2 days pretty much is all it took. And that was having to work and sleep mixed into my reading time haha.
My favorite thing about this book by far was Psyche herself. If you've read the actual tale of her and cupid.... she was a kind hearted beautiful girl. But this version and expansion of her just made it that much better. She was fierce and strong. And so kind and caring. And you couldn't help but want to cheer for her with each accomplishment. And gasp at each challenge. Maybe because she's a mortal in this story. And that mortality shines though and can be relatable. She isn't some crazy mystic being the way any of the immortals are. And she still has those human characteristics that allow us to show sympathy and relate.
Cupid wasnt so bad either haha. I loved his personality, the quick whitt and charm he shown. And yet how protective a d loyal he could be to those he loved. Plus he's a God of love after all. He has that whole hot and brooding thing going for him too haha.
But also something else I really enjoyed in this book. Was the sense of looking deeper than what you can see. To trust yourself and your instincts. And not let what other tell you, or even your own mind sway you. That even when we have an option of something in out heads, it doesn't make it so.
That idea of blind love. That actions and our feelings are so much more powerful then our opinions.
All in all. I have to say this book just had it all for me. The romance, suspense, cunning, and the flow of just an amazing story.
I cannot wait for this book to be out so everyone can get the chance to read it. It should be one that's at the top of your to buy list ❤
I without a doubt give SOUL IN DARKNESS
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐5 stars⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
But where to start on this actual book. It's easy to say it's designed wonderfully. Since the basis of it is already laid out so well. But the way Wendy spun it. How she created it into her own story was great. She gave so much more depth and feeling to these ancient characters. And I loved getting swept up in this book. And boy did I.
Less then 2 days pretty much is all it took. And that was having to work and sleep mixed into my reading time haha.
My favorite thing about this book by far was Psyche herself. If you've read the actual tale of her and cupid.... she was a kind hearted beautiful girl. But this version and expansion of her just made it that much better. She was fierce and strong. And so kind and caring. And you couldn't help but want to cheer for her with each accomplishment. And gasp at each challenge. Maybe because she's a mortal in this story. And that mortality shines though and can be relatable. She isn't some crazy mystic being the way any of the immortals are. And she still has those human characteristics that allow us to show sympathy and relate.
Cupid wasnt so bad either haha. I loved his personality, the quick whitt and charm he shown. And yet how protective a d loyal he could be to those he loved. Plus he's a God of love after all. He has that whole hot and brooding thing going for him too haha.
But also something else I really enjoyed in this book. Was the sense of looking deeper than what you can see. To trust yourself and your instincts. And not let what other tell you, or even your own mind sway you. That even when we have an option of something in out heads, it doesn't make it so.
That idea of blind love. That actions and our feelings are so much more powerful then our opinions.
All in all. I have to say this book just had it all for me. The romance, suspense, cunning, and the flow of just an amazing story.
I cannot wait for this book to be out so everyone can get the chance to read it. It should be one that's at the top of your to buy list ❤
I without a doubt give SOUL IN DARKNESS
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐5 stars⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
November 13, 2019
3 stars. Very interesting and entertaining story. I will admit that I’m not very knowledgable about the actual mythology of Cupid and Psyche so I can’t speak on the accuracy. However, I do think the author did a great job giving you just enough of a background so that even if you aren’t familiar with Roman or Greek mythology you won’t be confused.
The writing was good and I liked Psyche. I thought she was a great character. Her development was solid and I did enjoy her and Cupid’s relationship even though it was insta-love. I found them to be compelling enough characters that it didn’t bother me.
I only wish that we would’ve gotten Cupid’s P.O.V chapters sooner instead of more than halfway through the book. I think that would’ve helped tremendously with the narrative because I found his chapters to be interesting and insightful to his character.
Overall, it’s a great read and it piqued my interest enough to make me wanna do my own research about these two characters.
The writing was good and I liked Psyche. I thought she was a great character. Her development was solid and I did enjoy her and Cupid’s relationship even though it was insta-love. I found them to be compelling enough characters that it didn’t bother me.
I only wish that we would’ve gotten Cupid’s P.O.V chapters sooner instead of more than halfway through the book. I think that would’ve helped tremendously with the narrative because I found his chapters to be interesting and insightful to his character.
Overall, it’s a great read and it piqued my interest enough to make me wanna do my own research about these two characters.
February 19, 2019
Ok I really enjoyed this one. I went into this not knowing what to expect, and I was pleasantly surprised. I will say this is absolutely not YA though lol I think this has been marketed more towards that, but it isn’t.
The middle did drag a tiny bit, and Psyche did annoy me sometimes (but given the circumstances, her actions were warranted).
Overall though I really liked this Cupid/Psyche retelling!
Before reading:
————————
Now this sounds bloody fantastic.
The middle did drag a tiny bit, and Psyche did annoy me sometimes (but given the circumstances, her actions were warranted).
Overall though I really liked this Cupid/Psyche retelling!
Before reading:
————————
Now this sounds bloody fantastic.
February 17, 2019
This is just everything I love. Romance, Greek mythology, enemy to lover & did I mention the romance... swoon-worthy. This packs some serious punches to the chest; It broke my heart how resistant Psyche was being, how heartless Venus is & how much Cupid seemed to be trying to make it work. I LOVED it.
I would absolutely love some more Greek mythology re-tellings... Ms Higgins...?
I would absolutely love some more Greek mythology re-tellings... Ms Higgins...?
April 18, 2019
I really enjoyed this straight retelling of Cupid and Psyche. It felt like an expansion to the original myth, set in Roman times. It was well researched.
If you want a romantic Greek mythology retelling that doesn’t stray from the original mythology, this is the book for you.
Free on kindle unlimited.
If you want a romantic Greek mythology retelling that doesn’t stray from the original mythology, this is the book for you.
Free on kindle unlimited.
Read
December 27, 2021DNFing this for now at 50%. I can’t force myself to continue reading this.
There’s nothing wrong with the book per se but if I’m not enjoying it, I’m just going to DNF. This was a weird one in that it’s written like YA but suddenly there’s a NA sex scene, and that’s about it for the writing. The characters felt pretty bland and there were no lyrical descriptors of emotions or places which I usually enjoy.
I was super excited to read a Psyche and Eros retelling but this wasn’t it. While I love that this is set in ancient times (I don’t seem to get along with modern retellings in contemporary settings), but the characters were not that developed and i ended up feeling nothing for them- not enough to keep reading.
I really hoped I’d enjoy this like most readers, but I just didn’t. There’s few retellings I enjoy that are done to my tastes (Madeline Miller and Jennifer Saint’s books I adored), so I will still venture into retellings but I don’t have high hopes for ones that are NA books.
There’s nothing wrong with the book per se but if I’m not enjoying it, I’m just going to DNF. This was a weird one in that it’s written like YA but suddenly there’s a NA sex scene, and that’s about it for the writing. The characters felt pretty bland and there were no lyrical descriptors of emotions or places which I usually enjoy.
I was super excited to read a Psyche and Eros retelling but this wasn’t it. While I love that this is set in ancient times (I don’t seem to get along with modern retellings in contemporary settings), but the characters were not that developed and i ended up feeling nothing for them- not enough to keep reading.
I really hoped I’d enjoy this like most readers, but I just didn’t. There’s few retellings I enjoy that are done to my tastes (Madeline Miller and Jennifer Saint’s books I adored), so I will still venture into retellings but I don’t have high hopes for ones that are NA books.
February 28, 2019
Actual Rating: 4.5 stars!
“ In every person I met, every new face, I sought the one who would finally lock eyes with me and see through to my soul within. ”
Soul In Darkness was one of my highly anticipated books of 2019 and I'm very happy to say that I wasn't disappointed. I'm a total sucker for fantasy romances and this book was absolutely amazing! It is actually a stand-alone novel inspired by the greek mythology Cupid and Psyche. I've read only few retellings of this myth and so far, this was the best. It's definitely going into my favorites list. I enjoyed every aspect of this book. The characters, the story, the writing, the romance and the setting was perfect. The author has done a great job in weaving this tale and I hope she writes even more fascinating tales like this in the future.
Princess Psyche, the third royal daughter of the isle was born with great beauty. People from far away travel to her isle just to have a glimpse of her beautiful face. In her entire life, Psyche lived a lonely life without friends because every girl was quite envious of her beauty. Everyone adored her physical beauty but Psyche feels it more like a curse. People adored her so much that they left gifts and offerings that they once left at the alter of Venus, goddess of love and beauty. Venus gets enraged by the humiliation from the humans and asks her son Cupid to teach the mortal a lesson. Cupid who likes making mischief and strife in the lives of humans gladly accepts it. When Psyche finally discovers the empty alter of goddess Venus, it was already too late. For her punishment, the oracle tells her that she's to become the bride of a dark-deeded winged serpent. Psyche is terrified of this unknown monster and she feels that she wouldn't survive his wrath but when she finally meets her mysterious husband he wasn't what she had expected. Every night, he morphs her fears into sensations that she couldn't resist.
Psyche is a sweet, brave, and adorable character! I really enjoyed her character in this book. She's vulnerable, yet strong girl. Her fear and emotions felt quite realistic. She's such a lovely character that you can't help but like her. I absolutely loved Cupid! His character was very intriguing and mysterious from the start. Some of his actions felt wrong at the beginning, but slowly he grew on me and I ended up loving him a lot. The slow burn romance between Cupid and Psyche was sensual, seductive, and absolutely swoon worthy. It was well developed. I enjoyed every interaction between them especially the steamy scenes. Coming to the other characters, Psyche has two sisters Miracle and Dawn. While Miracle cares for her little sister, the other sister Dawn always felt jealous of her beauty. She's always been mean to her. I also liked Psyche's maid Renae. She was very kind and caring. I hated Venus. She was arrogant and a Narcissistic bitch. And finally, I absolutely adored all the pets in this book. Psyche's two dolphins who're her only friends during her loneliness and also Mino and Sphinx. They're all super cute.
I loved the plot! It was mysterious, romantic, engaging and entertaining throughout. The story had me captivated from the very beginning. The pacing was perfect, and I never felt the need to skim. The book was divided into three parts and I enjoyed every minute of the story. The author did an amazing job in writing her own version of the tale. The writing was captivating. For the most part, the book was told in Psyche's first person POV but it also had Cupid's perspective which was written in third person POV. The setting was fantastic. The author described every structure in great detail.
Overall, it was a wonderful read filled with swoon worthy romance, mystery, and intrigue! It was really a unique retelling. Even if you're not familiar with the original story you're still going to love it. The story finally concluded with a satisfying ending and I can't wait for the author's next work.
“ In every person I met, every new face, I sought the one who would finally lock eyes with me and see through to my soul within. ”
Soul In Darkness was one of my highly anticipated books of 2019 and I'm very happy to say that I wasn't disappointed. I'm a total sucker for fantasy romances and this book was absolutely amazing! It is actually a stand-alone novel inspired by the greek mythology Cupid and Psyche. I've read only few retellings of this myth and so far, this was the best. It's definitely going into my favorites list. I enjoyed every aspect of this book. The characters, the story, the writing, the romance and the setting was perfect. The author has done a great job in weaving this tale and I hope she writes even more fascinating tales like this in the future.
Princess Psyche, the third royal daughter of the isle was born with great beauty. People from far away travel to her isle just to have a glimpse of her beautiful face. In her entire life, Psyche lived a lonely life without friends because every girl was quite envious of her beauty. Everyone adored her physical beauty but Psyche feels it more like a curse. People adored her so much that they left gifts and offerings that they once left at the alter of Venus, goddess of love and beauty. Venus gets enraged by the humiliation from the humans and asks her son Cupid to teach the mortal a lesson. Cupid who likes making mischief and strife in the lives of humans gladly accepts it. When Psyche finally discovers the empty alter of goddess Venus, it was already too late. For her punishment, the oracle tells her that she's to become the bride of a dark-deeded winged serpent. Psyche is terrified of this unknown monster and she feels that she wouldn't survive his wrath but when she finally meets her mysterious husband he wasn't what she had expected. Every night, he morphs her fears into sensations that she couldn't resist.
Psyche is a sweet, brave, and adorable character! I really enjoyed her character in this book. She's vulnerable, yet strong girl. Her fear and emotions felt quite realistic. She's such a lovely character that you can't help but like her. I absolutely loved Cupid! His character was very intriguing and mysterious from the start. Some of his actions felt wrong at the beginning, but slowly he grew on me and I ended up loving him a lot. The slow burn romance between Cupid and Psyche was sensual, seductive, and absolutely swoon worthy. It was well developed. I enjoyed every interaction between them especially the steamy scenes. Coming to the other characters, Psyche has two sisters Miracle and Dawn. While Miracle cares for her little sister, the other sister Dawn always felt jealous of her beauty. She's always been mean to her. I also liked Psyche's maid Renae. She was very kind and caring. I hated Venus. She was arrogant and a Narcissistic bitch. And finally, I absolutely adored all the pets in this book. Psyche's two dolphins who're her only friends during her loneliness and also Mino and Sphinx. They're all super cute.
I loved the plot! It was mysterious, romantic, engaging and entertaining throughout. The story had me captivated from the very beginning. The pacing was perfect, and I never felt the need to skim. The book was divided into three parts and I enjoyed every minute of the story. The author did an amazing job in writing her own version of the tale. The writing was captivating. For the most part, the book was told in Psyche's first person POV but it also had Cupid's perspective which was written in third person POV. The setting was fantastic. The author described every structure in great detail.
Overall, it was a wonderful read filled with swoon worthy romance, mystery, and intrigue! It was really a unique retelling. Even if you're not familiar with the original story you're still going to love it. The story finally concluded with a satisfying ending and I can't wait for the author's next work.
October 18, 2019
This Book Was different from my usual romance readings, but it was really good.
Fast-paced, unique, weird and completely engaging.
I loved this book.
Recommended for romance / Retellings lovers .
Fast-paced, unique, weird and completely engaging.
I loved this book.
Recommended for romance / Retellings lovers .
February 12, 2019
Original review on Julalicious Book Paradise
Starting this book, I wasn’t sure where it was going to take me. I just knew that I love Wendy Higgins’ writing so I was really excited for this book.
The book is a Greek mythology retelling story and I really enjoyed it because it wasn’t like most retellings I read before. I will admit that I wasn’t familiar with the story of Psyche and Cupid, but after reading this book, I will admit that I’m intrigued to find more about them.
Psyche is a character that you can’t help but root for. She’s a strong girl who has accepted her fate even if it meant to suffer at the hands of an unknown creature. She’s also a sweet person who enjoys the simple things in life. As she grew up, her people more often than not only saw her at face value as if she couldn’t be more than that which will bring them to their demise once the Goddess Venus decides to punish them for turning their backs on her.
Cupid was an interesting character too. He was charming that’s for sure, but he’s also quite good too even if his reputation seems to say the opposite from time to time. He wants Psyche to find love with him and he’s ready to do just about anything for her in hope she will finally trust him enough.
But since I didn’t know much about the tale of Psyche and Cupid, the whole book was a surprise each time I started a new chapter because I didn’t know what would happen next. I liked that a lot, but I am sure that even if you are familiar with this tale, you will enjoy Wendy’s retelling of it because she just has a way with the words.
Other Gods appear in this and I wanted to know more about them because that’s how good Wendy is. The story isn’t about them, but she makes you want to read about her secondary characters.
I won’t lie, sometimes I felt like the story was taking so long to get to a point and sometimes, it went too fast. But overall, this was really a great read and I recommend it highly.
I know this is a standalone, but I feel like Wendy Higgins could easily write more stories in that world because they are many ways to go with Greek mythology.
I was given an advanced copy of this book in exchange of an honest review.
Starting this book, I wasn’t sure where it was going to take me. I just knew that I love Wendy Higgins’ writing so I was really excited for this book.
The book is a Greek mythology retelling story and I really enjoyed it because it wasn’t like most retellings I read before. I will admit that I wasn’t familiar with the story of Psyche and Cupid, but after reading this book, I will admit that I’m intrigued to find more about them.
Psyche is a character that you can’t help but root for. She’s a strong girl who has accepted her fate even if it meant to suffer at the hands of an unknown creature. She’s also a sweet person who enjoys the simple things in life. As she grew up, her people more often than not only saw her at face value as if she couldn’t be more than that which will bring them to their demise once the Goddess Venus decides to punish them for turning their backs on her.
Cupid was an interesting character too. He was charming that’s for sure, but he’s also quite good too even if his reputation seems to say the opposite from time to time. He wants Psyche to find love with him and he’s ready to do just about anything for her in hope she will finally trust him enough.
But since I didn’t know much about the tale of Psyche and Cupid, the whole book was a surprise each time I started a new chapter because I didn’t know what would happen next. I liked that a lot, but I am sure that even if you are familiar with this tale, you will enjoy Wendy’s retelling of it because she just has a way with the words.
Other Gods appear in this and I wanted to know more about them because that’s how good Wendy is. The story isn’t about them, but she makes you want to read about her secondary characters.
I won’t lie, sometimes I felt like the story was taking so long to get to a point and sometimes, it went too fast. But overall, this was really a great read and I recommend it highly.
I know this is a standalone, but I feel like Wendy Higgins could easily write more stories in that world because they are many ways to go with Greek mythology.
I was given an advanced copy of this book in exchange of an honest review.
August 8, 2019
El mito de Psyque y Cupido es mi favorito solo después de Hades y Perséfone.
Este libro te sumerge en el mito de manera natural, la escritura de la autora y su agilidad con las palabras permiten que este libro se lea en cuestión de horas.
Este retelling contiene la mayoría sobre el mito original y bellas cosas adicionales que no podíamos más que imaginarnos y ahora están bellamente plasmadas en las páginas de Soul in darkness. Este libro es rápido de leer y te deja queriendo más. Realmente lo recomiendo!
Este libro te sumerge en el mito de manera natural, la escritura de la autora y su agilidad con las palabras permiten que este libro se lea en cuestión de horas.
Este retelling contiene la mayoría sobre el mito original y bellas cosas adicionales que no podíamos más que imaginarnos y ahora están bellamente plasmadas en las páginas de Soul in darkness. Este libro es rápido de leer y te deja queriendo más. Realmente lo recomiendo!
November 14, 2022
Had very high hopes with it.
February 20, 2019
I am a sucker for mythology and retellings and couldn't wait to dive right into this one. Psyche seemed too special snowflake, and I had a difficult time with her plight. Even though the myth is pretty much insta-love, I didn't feel any strong connection to the romantic aspect either. For the most part, I enjoyed the mythology, especially the gods and goddesses.
Can't say I disliked the book, but it won't go as a Higgins favorite either.
Can't say I disliked the book, but it won't go as a Higgins favorite either.
May 16, 2019
Wow. That was... bad.
I was so excited to read this book, too. I decided to buy it after seeing an author I like read it and gave it a pretty rave review. And the myth of Psyche and Cupid? Decidedly My Brand.
And yet, somehow, the author utterly failed in bringing the myth to life.
The prose was okay, for the most part, but the story was told so... juvenile-y? That is the only word I can think of to describe it. Psyche was a young woman for most of this story, and yet everything she experienced and her every reaction to everything around her was so childish. And please don't get me started on her playing with the trees and blowing kisses to everything. Is she a twenty-something year old woman or an eight year old girl?
I could probably swerve into how this book feeds into the infantilization of women, but it's 3am and I don't feel like opening that very special Pandora's box. I just want to be free of this book.
Also, the way they spoke? Aside from the dialogue and inner monologues being stilted and entirely inorganic, there was absolutely no consistency to the way they spoke. One minute, there would be overly formal speech patterns you'd expect to find in The Ten Commandments starring Charlton Heston and Yul Brynner (with absolutely none of the fluidity and fire the dialogue in that movie provides) and the next Cupid is saying "Nah." and Psyche is saying "Have a good day at work."
The whiplash was enough to leave my neck sore.
But above all, the most infuriating part of this book came after Venus revealed to Cupid and Psyche that Psyche is pregnant. And when I say she is pregnant, I mean that I think she was like...a month pregnant. Maybe two at the absolute most. But the book? It would not let you forget she was pregnant. Every thought Psyche had from that moment on, through all the trials Venus put Psyche through to prove her worth, was peppered with the reminder that she was with child.
I get it. She's pregnant. I get it. She doesn't even have a baby bump! Stop putting your hand on your stomach!! We get it!!!!!
And I'm begging you not to get me started on how when she starts feeling morning sickness and Cupid offers to take it away with his Godly Powers™, she refuses, insisting that she wants to feel every moment of the pregnancy. And also how she refused to let him take away the pain of labor from her, because she "had wanted to feel as much as possible, to have the experience so many women had endured before [her]."
I'm sorry, excuse me while I go barf.
Listen, I'm on the fence on whether I want kids of my own one day, but this has to be the absolute worst and most nauseating depiction of pregnancy I have ever read in less than a hundred pages. And I've read some pretty bullshit depictions of pregnancy.
She's giving birth in a time when there weren't epidurals!!! And a human being a little larger than the size of a football in some cases is barreling through her vagina!!!!! No woman is gonna say "No thank you, I would like to endure this searing agony of my vaginal opening tearing with the force of this mini-melon clawing its way into the world. But thank you anyway, god husband."
Jesus.
Anyway, the sex scenes left a lot to be desired and weren't even a redeeming quality of this book. There was really nothing good about it at all. Why is this genre such hit or miss? Every time I think I don't ask for much, I'm shown just how easy it is to let me down.
I was so excited to read this book, too. I decided to buy it after seeing an author I like read it and gave it a pretty rave review. And the myth of Psyche and Cupid? Decidedly My Brand.
And yet, somehow, the author utterly failed in bringing the myth to life.
The prose was okay, for the most part, but the story was told so... juvenile-y? That is the only word I can think of to describe it. Psyche was a young woman for most of this story, and yet everything she experienced and her every reaction to everything around her was so childish. And please don't get me started on her playing with the trees and blowing kisses to everything. Is she a twenty-something year old woman or an eight year old girl?
I could probably swerve into how this book feeds into the infantilization of women, but it's 3am and I don't feel like opening that very special Pandora's box. I just want to be free of this book.
Also, the way they spoke? Aside from the dialogue and inner monologues being stilted and entirely inorganic, there was absolutely no consistency to the way they spoke. One minute, there would be overly formal speech patterns you'd expect to find in The Ten Commandments starring Charlton Heston and Yul Brynner (with absolutely none of the fluidity and fire the dialogue in that movie provides) and the next Cupid is saying "Nah." and Psyche is saying "Have a good day at work."
The whiplash was enough to leave my neck sore.
But above all, the most infuriating part of this book came after Venus revealed to Cupid and Psyche that Psyche is pregnant. And when I say she is pregnant, I mean that I think she was like...a month pregnant. Maybe two at the absolute most. But the book? It would not let you forget she was pregnant. Every thought Psyche had from that moment on, through all the trials Venus put Psyche through to prove her worth, was peppered with the reminder that she was with child.
I get it. She's pregnant. I get it. She doesn't even have a baby bump! Stop putting your hand on your stomach!! We get it!!!!!
And I'm begging you not to get me started on how when she starts feeling morning sickness and Cupid offers to take it away with his Godly Powers™, she refuses, insisting that she wants to feel every moment of the pregnancy. And also how she refused to let him take away the pain of labor from her, because she "had wanted to feel as much as possible, to have the experience so many women had endured before [her]."
I'm sorry, excuse me while I go barf.
Listen, I'm on the fence on whether I want kids of my own one day, but this has to be the absolute worst and most nauseating depiction of pregnancy I have ever read in less than a hundred pages. And I've read some pretty bullshit depictions of pregnancy.
She's giving birth in a time when there weren't epidurals!!! And a human being a little larger than the size of a football in some cases is barreling through her vagina!!!!! No woman is gonna say "No thank you, I would like to endure this searing agony of my vaginal opening tearing with the force of this mini-melon clawing its way into the world. But thank you anyway, god husband."
Jesus.
Anyway, the sex scenes left a lot to be desired and weren't even a redeeming quality of this book. There was really nothing good about it at all. Why is this genre such hit or miss? Every time I think I don't ask for much, I'm shown just how easy it is to let me down.
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