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Sons of Olympus #1
Wildfire
Wilder Pratt has given up trying to get his life together. Passed up for a promotion, left by his long-term boyfriend, nothing in his life seems to work how he planned. Wilder is just treading water . . . right up until the moment he trips over a dead student outside his office with a golden would-be murderer standing over the body.
Hermes has been running his whole life—from duty and danger, from a father who mistrusts him and siblings who outshine him. But when the students at Banneker College of magic start dropping dead one after another, Hermes’s ass is on the line. He finds himself playing bodyguard to a man who suspects him of murder, but that doesn’t seem enough to keep Professor Pratt’s hot hands off him.
An ancient evil has risen from the depths of Tartarus, and he’s coming for Banneker. The only thing standing in the way of a titanic apocalypse is one disappointing part-time professor and a god who’d rather abandon the world to its fate. But if they work together, they may just save everyone.
Hermes has been running his whole life—from duty and danger, from a father who mistrusts him and siblings who outshine him. But when the students at Banneker College of magic start dropping dead one after another, Hermes’s ass is on the line. He finds himself playing bodyguard to a man who suspects him of murder, but that doesn’t seem enough to keep Professor Pratt’s hot hands off him.
An ancient evil has risen from the depths of Tartarus, and he’s coming for Banneker. The only thing standing in the way of a titanic apocalypse is one disappointing part-time professor and a god who’d rather abandon the world to its fate. But if they work together, they may just save everyone.
232 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 15, 2020
284 people are currently reading
590 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
January 13, 2024
With the deft skills and impeccable ability to twist what we think we know about the Greek Pantheon, Sam and W.M. have once again produced a paranormal romance which delivers on all promises.
Hermes, last seen sheepishly trying to make up for being an utter muppet in the Lords of the Underworld series, is here starring in his own kinda redemption arc.
I say kinda because he is, after all not only the Winged Messenger God, but also the guy in charge of thieves and tricksters.
So, you won't see a complete change of character, he's still a combination of arrogance, feelings of unworthiness with an overwhelming sense of self-preservation.
It's just now he has someone to turn all his need for affection on.
And in Wilder Pratt boy has he met his match. Theo Ward's office mate is disgruntled and completely out of sorts when students keep turning up dead around him.
The blond he hooks up with for an angry hand job in Dionysus' club puzzles him as much as he's attracted to him.
Watching these two idiots fall in love, while simultaneously thinking the other has no feelings for them is both hilarious and quite sad.
They've both had a right number done to them by their collective parental units.
Weaving in and around their romance is the overarching series plot, which sees the Titans break out of Tartarus and the monster Typhon preying on the Bannaker School of Magic.
With perfect pacing and witty dialogue, the narrative bounces along to a dramatic conclusion and a perfect twist which sees Wilder and Hermes joining forces in more than just the physical to overcome personal fears and practical dangers.
Add in a cute cat, boxes and boxes of brownie mix, interfering immortal families, and students who actually like their dry and somewhat blunt Professor, and you have an absolute belter of a series opener.
Now is it Ares, Apollo or Hephaestus up next?
#ARC kindly received from the authors in return for an honest and unbiased review.
Hermes, last seen sheepishly trying to make up for being an utter muppet in the Lords of the Underworld series, is here starring in his own kinda redemption arc.
I say kinda because he is, after all not only the Winged Messenger God, but also the guy in charge of thieves and tricksters.
So, you won't see a complete change of character, he's still a combination of arrogance, feelings of unworthiness with an overwhelming sense of self-preservation.
It's just now he has someone to turn all his need for affection on.
And in Wilder Pratt boy has he met his match. Theo Ward's office mate is disgruntled and completely out of sorts when students keep turning up dead around him.
The blond he hooks up with for an angry hand job in Dionysus' club puzzles him as much as he's attracted to him.
Watching these two idiots fall in love, while simultaneously thinking the other has no feelings for them is both hilarious and quite sad.
They've both had a right number done to them by their collective parental units.
Weaving in and around their romance is the overarching series plot, which sees the Titans break out of Tartarus and the monster Typhon preying on the Bannaker School of Magic.
With perfect pacing and witty dialogue, the narrative bounces along to a dramatic conclusion and a perfect twist which sees Wilder and Hermes joining forces in more than just the physical to overcome personal fears and practical dangers.
Add in a cute cat, boxes and boxes of brownie mix, interfering immortal families, and students who actually like their dry and somewhat blunt Professor, and you have an absolute belter of a series opener.
Now is it Ares, Apollo or Hephaestus up next?
#ARC kindly received from the authors in return for an honest and unbiased review.
February 5, 2022
DNF at 20%
1.5 stars
I am not sure why exactly this one didn’t work out for me. I see all the 4 stars and 5 stars reviews, but I just couldn’t get into it. The plot is not bad so far, but the writing is not for me I think…
So far, the world-building is pretty basic, if not lacking, and for such a short book, the plot has not progressed that much. I like the idea that mages and Greek gods exist in the same world, but I would have liked more details and more explanations about their history and how their magic worked.
I also enjoy some sexual tension in the M/M books I read, and I didn’t feel any here. The main character and the love interest (at least I assume he is the love interest, I didn’t make it that far into the story) just met and started to dry hump each other. It was intense, sure, but I didn’t feel chemistry or sexual tension.
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1.5 stars
I am not sure why exactly this one didn’t work out for me. I see all the 4 stars and 5 stars reviews, but I just couldn’t get into it. The plot is not bad so far, but the writing is not for me I think…
So far, the world-building is pretty basic, if not lacking, and for such a short book, the plot has not progressed that much. I like the idea that mages and Greek gods exist in the same world, but I would have liked more details and more explanations about their history and how their magic worked.
I also enjoy some sexual tension in the M/M books I read, and I didn’t feel any here. The main character and the love interest (at least I assume he is the love interest, I didn’t make it that far into the story) just met and started to dry hump each other. It was intense, sure, but I didn’t feel chemistry or sexual tension.
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November 3, 2020
I enjoyed this!!
My thoughts are a bit all over the place because I read this some time back (these things happen when you take too long to type out a review but I'm going to try my best) but one thing I do know is I really enjoyed the story.
Going into this book, I honestly didn't know what to expect because really, none of the MCs had been particularly likeable in the Lords of the Underworld series so I wondered how it would go. Of course Hermes and Wilder were both a-holes but they found their inner "nice guys" when things hit the proverbial fan.
The path to them thawing enough to care about other people and each other was both funny and heartwarming and was what made the story as enjoyable as it was for me!
I suspect Ares' book might be next but regardless of who's book it is, I will be waiting impatiently for it!!
**20-Oct-2020**
Review to come!
**eARC Graciously Provided by Author in Exchange for an Honest, Unbiased Review **
My thoughts are a bit all over the place because I read this some time back (these things happen when you take too long to type out a review but I'm going to try my best) but one thing I do know is I really enjoyed the story.
Going into this book, I honestly didn't know what to expect because really, none of the MCs had been particularly likeable in the Lords of the Underworld series so I wondered how it would go. Of course Hermes and Wilder were both a-holes but they found their inner "nice guys" when things hit the proverbial fan.
The path to them thawing enough to care about other people and each other was both funny and heartwarming and was what made the story as enjoyable as it was for me!
I suspect Ares' book might be next but regardless of who's book it is, I will be waiting impatiently for it!!
**20-Oct-2020**
Review to come!
**eARC Graciously Provided by Author in Exchange for an Honest, Unbiased Review **
October 24, 2020
I fucking LOVE Greek Mythology!
May 25, 2022
This was fine.
I didn't have high expectations going in. While I love a short novel this one really needed some breathing room. Everything happened at too fast of a pace that it was hard to get invested in the plot or even the characters. Hermes and Wilder were perfectly fine main protagonists. They are good grouchy/snarky characters. But I can't believe they care about anyone besides themselves to save the world or even the students at Wilder's school. They just didn't get enough growth for that.
If you are just here for the sex-scenes: they were also just fine.
It's fine. This is fine.
I didn't have high expectations going in. While I love a short novel this one really needed some breathing room. Everything happened at too fast of a pace that it was hard to get invested in the plot or even the characters. Hermes and Wilder were perfectly fine main protagonists. They are good grouchy/snarky characters. But I can't believe they care about anyone besides themselves to save the world or even the students at Wilder's school. They just didn't get enough growth for that.
If you are just here for the sex-scenes: they were also just fine.
It's fine. This is fine.
August 7, 2025
So I have to admit, I haven’t read the 3rd book of the Lords of the Underworld series yet (it’s on my mountain of a TBR), but I just could not wait to read this one; and I wasn’t lost at all! Greek mythology has fascinated me since I was very young and I’ve always had a soft spot for Hermes (I’m a sucker for a trickster god). Pairing him with Wilder was such a genius move on Burns and Fawkes part. Now we have a double redemption story and these two are perfect for each other. They may not appear it on the outside, Hermes being flighty and quick to joke, and Wilder being stern and a little stuck up, but it turns out they were just what the other needed to give them a place to land and soften all sharp edges. I’m intrigued by the underlying story of the series, and am looking forward to the culmination of everything these two series have put forth.
November 4, 2020
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
It took a while for me to really get into it, but once I did, I found it quite fun save for a few issues. I will offer this caveat though: Wildfire is the first in the new Sons of Olympus series, but I’m not sure it feels completely standalone. The authors have another series, Lords of the Underworld, that exists in the same universe as Wildfire and multiple characters and events are referenced from those books. Now you can read Wildfire independently, but I think it would have been more enjoyable had I read the other series first, or at least been more familiar with the overall world the authors have created. So take that as you wish.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
It took a while for me to really get into it, but once I did, I found it quite fun save for a few issues. I will offer this caveat though: Wildfire is the first in the new Sons of Olympus series, but I’m not sure it feels completely standalone. The authors have another series, Lords of the Underworld, that exists in the same universe as Wildfire and multiple characters and events are referenced from those books. Now you can read Wildfire independently, but I think it would have been more enjoyable had I read the other series first, or at least been more familiar with the overall world the authors have created. So take that as you wish.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
October 21, 2020
This author duo has done it again. Another excellent story with characters right out of Greek mythology, Wildfire brings Wilder, a mage with the power of fire, and Hermes, everyone’s favorite love-to-hate-him smart aleck messenger god, together as they fight against the Titans trying to come back into power.
You may not think things look promising for Wilder and Hermes in the romance department, but keep reading—the tempestuous beginning to their relationship eventually leads to something deeper, even as each of them wonder how they could ever have anything solid together. They certainly do have plenty of physical chemistry…and though Hermes may wonder how he suddenly seems to have come to care for the humans at the Banneker school, he and Wilder do have that in common.
But there are baddies on the loose, and in addition to these new enemies you’ll find appearances of characters from the authors’ Lords of the Underworld series in supporting roles. Oh, and brownies. I’m finding myself craving brownies now. You’ll see.
I loved immersing myself in this story; I’ve always been one to devour Greek mythology when going to school, once out of school, and now in books that are crafted around the myths. This duo puts you right in the middle of the Greek gods and Titans, and impressively so considering all those mythological figures are part of the modern-day society in which the story is set.
Wildfire was a 5-star read for me, and I am excited for more in the series to see which gods will have their own stories told. If you’re a mythology addict like me, this book and the series from which it spins off are a must-have for your personal library. Note that the adult language and sexual content do make this story one for readers 18+.
You may not think things look promising for Wilder and Hermes in the romance department, but keep reading—the tempestuous beginning to their relationship eventually leads to something deeper, even as each of them wonder how they could ever have anything solid together. They certainly do have plenty of physical chemistry…and though Hermes may wonder how he suddenly seems to have come to care for the humans at the Banneker school, he and Wilder do have that in common.
But there are baddies on the loose, and in addition to these new enemies you’ll find appearances of characters from the authors’ Lords of the Underworld series in supporting roles. Oh, and brownies. I’m finding myself craving brownies now. You’ll see.
I loved immersing myself in this story; I’ve always been one to devour Greek mythology when going to school, once out of school, and now in books that are crafted around the myths. This duo puts you right in the middle of the Greek gods and Titans, and impressively so considering all those mythological figures are part of the modern-day society in which the story is set.
Wildfire was a 5-star read for me, and I am excited for more in the series to see which gods will have their own stories told. If you’re a mythology addict like me, this book and the series from which it spins off are a must-have for your personal library. Note that the adult language and sexual content do make this story one for readers 18+.
October 25, 2020
4.5 - 5 stars - I'm in love!
I think I mentioned this a while ago, but now’s the perfect opportunity to bring it up again. Mythology was my favorite subject in school. I couldn’t get enough of it and I’m pretty sure that has fueled my love of PNR and Fantasy. That pretty much guaranteed that I would at least like Wildfire, but Hermes and Wilder went way beyond my expectations. For the record, I love it when that happens. ❤
Banneker is supposed to be a campus that is a safe place for magical students to strengthen their craft away from discrimination. When students are suddenly dying for no apparent reason, Wilder gets unexpectedly drawn into the fight against powers he didn’t even know existed. Just as unexpectedly, Hermes finds himself for once not wanting to run, but to stand by Wilder’s side in a fight he’s not sure they can win. They both discover things about themselves that took them by surprise.
There was so much to love about Wildfire. Two characters who were broken in their own way. A sweet romance. Danger, magic, mystery and suspense. The supporting characters were intriguing and witty and… yeah, I think I’m going to adore this series.
I have no idea what’s next for The Sons of Olympus, but I do know that now that I’ve discovered this writing duo, I’m going to be stalking their back list. A lot of the characters in Wildfire were introduced in Fawkes and Burns Lords of the Underworld series. I can’t wait to get to know them better. 😉
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of Wildfire. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I think I mentioned this a while ago, but now’s the perfect opportunity to bring it up again. Mythology was my favorite subject in school. I couldn’t get enough of it and I’m pretty sure that has fueled my love of PNR and Fantasy. That pretty much guaranteed that I would at least like Wildfire, but Hermes and Wilder went way beyond my expectations. For the record, I love it when that happens. ❤
Banneker is supposed to be a campus that is a safe place for magical students to strengthen their craft away from discrimination. When students are suddenly dying for no apparent reason, Wilder gets unexpectedly drawn into the fight against powers he didn’t even know existed. Just as unexpectedly, Hermes finds himself for once not wanting to run, but to stand by Wilder’s side in a fight he’s not sure they can win. They both discover things about themselves that took them by surprise.
There was so much to love about Wildfire. Two characters who were broken in their own way. A sweet romance. Danger, magic, mystery and suspense. The supporting characters were intriguing and witty and… yeah, I think I’m going to adore this series.
I have no idea what’s next for The Sons of Olympus, but I do know that now that I’ve discovered this writing duo, I’m going to be stalking their back list. A lot of the characters in Wildfire were introduced in Fawkes and Burns Lords of the Underworld series. I can’t wait to get to know them better. 😉
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of Wildfire. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 3, 2022
I read this one for a challenge so I hadn't read Lords of the Underworld series from which evidently Wildfire was written as a spinoff. I think if I had read it first I might've (maybe) enjoyed this a little bit more but it works as a standalone so I don't think it was necessary.
For the most part I thought the sex scenes were cheesy and I just wasn't engaged by them. My favorite part of the book was simply the gods in a modern world. I love reading mythology and to see them in a different way is fun. I loved Hermes in this one. But I still wasn't too invested in the romance.
For the most part I thought the sex scenes were cheesy and I just wasn't engaged by them. My favorite part of the book was simply the gods in a modern world. I love reading mythology and to see them in a different way is fun. I loved Hermes in this one. But I still wasn't too invested in the romance.
April 9, 2023
DNF ~10%
Not going to rate, even though I really want to. In the first 10%, the amount of references to the other Olympian series by this duo that I didn't read was overwhelming and really fucking annoying. I also just didn't like the characters at all and felt zero connection.
LOL, I lied, I'm rating it afterall, sorry to all those people who bring out the pitchforks when people rate books they didn't finish. *shrugs*
Not going to rate, even though I really want to. In the first 10%, the amount of references to the other Olympian series by this duo that I didn't read was overwhelming and really fucking annoying. I also just didn't like the characters at all and felt zero connection.
LOL, I lied, I'm rating it afterall, sorry to all those people who bring out the pitchforks when people rate books they didn't finish. *shrugs*
February 18, 2022
Hermes liked nothing so much as ruining something perfect, running his hands through it until it looked like he’d been there. Had it. Owned it. Professor Hottie had just the kind of manicured perfection that Hermes wanted to utterly wreck.
Lords of the Underworld was the first series I’ve ever read by these authors. The way these ancient gods and the modern world was portrayed is one of the things that made me enjoy it so much. If you are familiar with that trilogy clearly you already know the MCs from this book. I’ve been craving this book for so long, I’m happy I've finally read it. I love redeem characters, even though they weren’t exactly villains no one can deny they both were kind of jerks in their own ways.
Wilder and Hermes are truly meant for each other. I like that Wilder still remains as an arrogant professor and Hermes as a troublemaker but at the same time they both grew as a person (or as a god). I enjoyed the plot but for me the best part was their relationship and how it developed from just sex to feelings and ended up being the best cat daddies.
A great start for this trilogy. I wonder who is going to be the next son of Zeus to have his own book, I can’t wait to find out!
May 26, 2022
4.5 stars
I loved seeing the heart of Hermes and the softer side of Wilder. These two were a perfect pair. I’m looking forward to the rest of the series!
I loved seeing the heart of Hermes and the softer side of Wilder. These two were a perfect pair. I’m looking forward to the rest of the series!
June 25, 2023
I really enjoyed the Lords of the Underworld series and I was sure I'd enjoy this spinoff series as well. And yep, loved this. Such fun seeing some of the old friends from the previous books and well Hermes. I mean sure he's snarky and acts like an obnoxious 5 year old most of the time. But, he's still kind of great. I loved seeing him realize that sometimes running away isn't the answer. Pair him with one grouchy no bullshit professor and it's a match made in heaven, even if Hermes' siblings are still being stupid about him. He's better than they ever give him credit for.
I really enjoyed Hermes and Wilder's inability to really just talk to the other one, because you know feelings. Neither of these two want to admit to any and really their families have taught them their feelings aren't ever going to be important anyway. But for each other, they're the most important thing. I loved how imperfect a fit these two should seem to be, but instead are each others compliment. And well, Wilder and Hermes both love his cat so they're already awesome in my book. Cats rule! Go Melly! :)
I'm looking forward to the next book already. We've got more titans on the loose and trouble to stop.
I really enjoyed Hermes and Wilder's inability to really just talk to the other one, because you know feelings. Neither of these two want to admit to any and really their families have taught them their feelings aren't ever going to be important anyway. But for each other, they're the most important thing. I loved how imperfect a fit these two should seem to be, but instead are each others compliment. And well, Wilder and Hermes both love his cat so they're already awesome in my book. Cats rule! Go Melly! :)
I'm looking forward to the next book already. We've got more titans on the loose and trouble to stop.
October 22, 2020
Wow this is such a great start to the series!
Both Wilder and Hermes are known for not being the best at interacting with others but from the moment they meet over a dead body, there's just something there between them that cannot be denied. It takes time to warm up and acknowledge anything between them but it's amusing and endearing to the reader and, eventually, each other.
There are a lot of characters to keep track of but there is an intriguing story line with a good mix of drama and action for all involved.
I really enjoyed reading Wildfire and am eager to see who gets their story next. From the characters we meet, I think there is a previous series which I definitely have to go and look for.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
Both Wilder and Hermes are known for not being the best at interacting with others but from the moment they meet over a dead body, there's just something there between them that cannot be denied. It takes time to warm up and acknowledge anything between them but it's amusing and endearing to the reader and, eventually, each other.
There are a lot of characters to keep track of but there is an intriguing story line with a good mix of drama and action for all involved.
I really enjoyed reading Wildfire and am eager to see who gets their story next. From the characters we meet, I think there is a previous series which I definitely have to go and look for.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
October 26, 2020
If you've read these authors' series Lords of the Underworld, this is a continuation of that series but this time focusing on the sons of Zeus. I've read all 3 of the previous books so it's hard for me to say if this can be read as a standalone. Both MCs were in the previous books and the events of this spring forth from the consequences of that series.
I was really looking forward to Hermes' story and it didn't disappoint. Hermes is an arse but then so is Wilder. They both use that as a defence mechanism to avoid being hurt by people (especially their parents). I'm glad they found each other.
Great plot and I'm looking forward to seeing how the war against the Titans goes.
Ares story next please.
I was really looking forward to Hermes' story and it didn't disappoint. Hermes is an arse but then so is Wilder. They both use that as a defence mechanism to avoid being hurt by people (especially their parents). I'm glad they found each other.
Great plot and I'm looking forward to seeing how the war against the Titans goes.
Ares story next please.
November 2, 2020
3,5☆
I love Greek Mythology and I was really happy that I came across this book (and these authors, because I really have to check out the other books too!).
I enjoyed reading the story, the plot was interesting, the characters loveable, the romance and erotica was well written and the cover is really beautiful!
The first half of the book was amazing and I thought this would be a new favorite, but after a while the story got boring for me and it was a bit long for my liking. I was more interested in the Greek Mythology part of the story and wanted to see more "paranormal" things.
The romance part was instalove, but I didn't mind it at all, it fits the story really good, but I want more cuteness/cudless with my instalove and to really see them falling in love and not just written on the pages, I want to feel the emotions too.
So while it was an enjoyable read, I wanted more from this story. But it has great elements, so I'm staying for the other books too!
I love Greek Mythology and I was really happy that I came across this book (and these authors, because I really have to check out the other books too!).
I enjoyed reading the story, the plot was interesting, the characters loveable, the romance and erotica was well written and the cover is really beautiful!
The first half of the book was amazing and I thought this would be a new favorite, but after a while the story got boring for me and it was a bit long for my liking. I was more interested in the Greek Mythology part of the story and wanted to see more "paranormal" things.
The romance part was instalove, but I didn't mind it at all, it fits the story really good, but I want more cuteness/cudless with my instalove and to really see them falling in love and not just written on the pages, I want to feel the emotions too.
So while it was an enjoyable read, I wanted more from this story. But it has great elements, so I'm staying for the other books too!
January 8, 2021
Wilder Pratt, the jerk of a fire wielding magic professor from two of the previous Lords of the Underworld series, comes into his own romantic story and collides with destiny when he meets Hermes, the jerk of a Grecian God who caused trouble throughout the previous series. Surprisingly they work well together as they become a couple and you realize that they are not so much jerks as they are "misunderstood" (?) or rather, an "acquired taste." Wilder and Hermes both find redemption and acceptance with each other as they search for who is killing university students and ways to stop the killer. Entertaining and fun, I seriously fell in love with poor, broken, smart ass Hermes too.
October 26, 2020
I have to admit, I haven't read the Lord of the Underworld series, which I'm now gathering is kind of the original series, so to speak, but that absolutely does not mean that this book wasn't enjoyable on its own. I was slightly confused at first, but if one has at least a rudimentary knowledge of Greek Mythology and love of urban fantasy, it's not difficult to jump right in with this book and these characters.
I enjoyed the mythology of this book. I am, admittedly, pretty much always a sucker for any sort of mythology adaptation. Throw M/M romance, action, and my favorite Greek god in the mix, and I'm pretty much always going to pick up the book and start reading. This book's take on mythology bears a striking resemblance to a more-adult version of the Percy Jackson/Heroes of Olympus stories, not in the sense of halfbloods, but more the overall attitude and interpretations of the gods. The sarcasm, the wit, the... occasional irreverence mixed with badass displays of godly power... That might bother some--and honestly, I thought it would bother me more than it did--but I'd argue this story is still worth the read.
I loved Wilder and his surly demeanor, especially when paired with the flamboyant and flirtatious Hermes. Their dynamic was entertaining and the authors ratcheted up their chemistry and heat as the story developed. It was, to put it mildly, entertaining.
That being said, the plot on this one seemed to drag just a little for me. I was ready to leap head first into the action and mystery pretty early on with the mysterious deaths and soul-stealing stuff, but the characters seemed to stand around chatting quite a bit longer than I might have liked. Things definitely picked up as the story progressed, culminating in a truly thrilling conclusion, but I kind of wish it was a little quicker on the uptake.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and look forward to more in this series. I might have also been slightly inspired to go back and read the Lord of the Underworld series. :)
I enjoyed the mythology of this book. I am, admittedly, pretty much always a sucker for any sort of mythology adaptation. Throw M/M romance, action, and my favorite Greek god in the mix, and I'm pretty much always going to pick up the book and start reading. This book's take on mythology bears a striking resemblance to a more-adult version of the Percy Jackson/Heroes of Olympus stories, not in the sense of halfbloods, but more the overall attitude and interpretations of the gods. The sarcasm, the wit, the... occasional irreverence mixed with badass displays of godly power... That might bother some--and honestly, I thought it would bother me more than it did--but I'd argue this story is still worth the read.
I loved Wilder and his surly demeanor, especially when paired with the flamboyant and flirtatious Hermes. Their dynamic was entertaining and the authors ratcheted up their chemistry and heat as the story developed. It was, to put it mildly, entertaining.
That being said, the plot on this one seemed to drag just a little for me. I was ready to leap head first into the action and mystery pretty early on with the mysterious deaths and soul-stealing stuff, but the characters seemed to stand around chatting quite a bit longer than I might have liked. Things definitely picked up as the story progressed, culminating in a truly thrilling conclusion, but I kind of wish it was a little quicker on the uptake.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and look forward to more in this series. I might have also been slightly inspired to go back and read the Lord of the Underworld series. :)
February 2, 2021
DNF @ 70%. I don’t know why I pushed myself that far, but I guess I was just hoping for it to get better and it didn’t? Normally I love interpretations of the Greek pantheon, so that’s why I wanted to read this. This was my first book by either of these authors, but I have a few more books in the Lords of the Underworld series on my Want to Read list. I might still give them a chance, I don’t know. For me, this book was much slower than it should’ve been given how short it was, and I just didn’t really care about it at all. It also suffered from a serious lack of worldbuilding. I know it takes place in the same universe as the Lords of the Underworld series, so maybe if I had read those first that wouldn’t have been a problem. But there was just no explanation in this book for why mages existed in the same world as Greek gods, or anything about how the magic worked. It just did not grab my attention. I’m giving it two stars because I did like parts of the romance I guess? But overall this was a disappointment.
October 25, 2020
"Wildfire" is the first volume in a new series by Sam Burns and W.M. Fawkes duo entitled "Sons of Olympus". This novel is linked to earlier works by the authors, namely "Lords of the Underworld" series. That's why, I have to mention right at the beginning that knowing "Lords of the Underworld" is not required to understand and fully enjoy "Wildfire". Both series, however, share a common universe, about which I must write a few words. What the authors offered us in "Wildfire" is simply amazing. It's an urban fantasy in full swing. Mortals using magic, some fantastic creatures and ancient Greek gods in one novel. In short, a wonderful, interesting, addictive universe that you will never forget. Once you become engrossed in the adventure set in this world, you are lost to the real world. When you start reading "Wildfire" and get to know this universe, you don't want to put the novel down, you don't want to go back to your everyday life.
Another advantage of "Wildfire" are the main characters, who are distinguished from others by the fact that they are simply difficult, burdensome, unpleasant. In a word, different than everyone else. Sure, after a while, they show us their better side and they become easier for us to fall in love with, but their biggest advantage is the fact that they are not great, sweet, helpful, perfect. Moreover, they both have little self-confidence, don't fully believe in their strength and abilities, are lonely, and in their youth they lacked parental care and support. So what if one of our characters is a mage and the other is a god? They both have a lot in common. Let's add that they bring out the worst and at the same time the best in each other. They get on each other's nerves and get drawn to each other. Wilder and Hermes are really special and easy to remember, because they are not lost among the other characters of the novels we read. They are different from them and therefore memorable.
As for the story told in "Wildfire", it is based on the fairly well-known theme of evil from the depths of Tartarus. It should be noted, however, that unlike other books that use this motif, "Wildfire" is presented in a sometimes brutal, sometimes very personal way, because it concerns people Wilder knows, people close to him and therefore to a mortal who until recently was not aware of the existence of gods. I think that this is why the novel impresses us all the more and draws us into this story even deeper, because we are not sure how far the authors would go and how dramatic our characters' lives would be.
All things considered, "Wildfire" is a really good novel, with a captivating story, interesting characters and a wonderful, addictive universe. We fall in love with this book from the first pages and we simply can't put it away.
_____________________
„Wildfire” jest pierwszym tomem nowej serii autorstwa duetu Sam Burns oraz W.M. Fawkes zatytułowanej „Sons of Olympus”. Powieść ta jest powiązana z wcześniejszymi dziełami autorów wchodzącymi w skład serii „Lords of the Underworld”. Już na samym początku muszę więc wspomnieć, iż znajomość „Lords of the Underworld” nie jest wymagana, aby zrozumieć i w pełni cieszyć się „Wildfire”. Obie serie łączy jednak wspólne uniwersum, o którym muszę napisać kilka słów. To, co autorzy zaoferowali nam w „Wildfire” jest po prostu niesamowite. To urban fantasy pełną parą. Posługujący się magią śmiertelnicy, kilka fantastycznych istot i starożytni greccy bogowie w jednej powieści. Mówiąc krótko, wspaniałe, interesujące, uzależniające uniwersum, które nie pozwoli Wam o sobie zapomnieć. Kiedy już raz dacie się porwać przygodzie osadzonej w tym świecie, jesteście straceni dla świata realnego. Kiedy już zaczniecie czytać „Wildfire” i poznacie to uniwersum, nie będziecie chcieli odłożyć powieści, nie będziecie chcieli wracać do własnej codzienności.
Kolejną zaletą „Wildfire” są główni bohaterowie, którzy spośród innych wyróżniają się tym, że są po prostu trudni, uciążliwi, niemili. Jednym słowem, inni niż wszyscy. Jasne, po pewnym czasie pokazują się nam od tej lepszej strony, którą łatwo pokochać, ale ich największą zaletą jest właśnie fakt, iż nie są wspaniali, słodcy, uczynni, idealni. Co więcej, obaj mają o sobie niskie mniemanie, nie do końca wierzą w swoje siły i możliwości, są samotni, a w ich młodości zabrakło rodzicielskiej troski i wsparcia. I co z tego, że jeden z naszych bohaterów to mag, a drugi bóg? Obaj mają ze sobą wiele wspólnego. Dodajmy, że wydobywają z siebie nawzajem to co najgorsze i jednocześnie to co najlepsze. Działają sobie na nerwy i lgną do siebie nawzajem. Wilder i Hermes są naprawdę wyjątkowi i łatwo ich zapamiętać, gdyż nie nikną pośród innych bohaterów czytanych przez nas powieści. Różnią się od nich i dlatego zapadają w pamięć.
Co się zaś tyczy historii przedstawionej w „Wildfire”, opiera się ona na dosyć znanym motywie zła z głębi Tartaru. Należy jednak zauważyć, że w przeciwieństwie do innych tytułów, w których pojawia się taki motyw, w „Wildfire” został przedstawiony w sposób czasami brutalny, czasami bardzo osobisty, ponieważ dosięgający osób znanych, bliskich Wilderowi, a więc śmiertelnikowi, który do niedawna nie był świadom istnienia bogów. Myślę, że właśnie dzięki temu powieść robi na nas tym większe wrażenie i tym głębiej nas wciąga, ponieważ nie jesteśmy pewni, jak daleko posuną się autorzy i jak dramatycznym uczynią życie naszych bohaterów.
Podsumowując, „Wildfire” to naprawdę dobra powieść, wciągająca historia, interesujący bohaterowie i wspaniałe, uzależniające uniwersum. W tej książce zakochujemy się od pierwszych stron i nie potrafimy się od niej oderwać.
Another advantage of "Wildfire" are the main characters, who are distinguished from others by the fact that they are simply difficult, burdensome, unpleasant. In a word, different than everyone else. Sure, after a while, they show us their better side and they become easier for us to fall in love with, but their biggest advantage is the fact that they are not great, sweet, helpful, perfect. Moreover, they both have little self-confidence, don't fully believe in their strength and abilities, are lonely, and in their youth they lacked parental care and support. So what if one of our characters is a mage and the other is a god? They both have a lot in common. Let's add that they bring out the worst and at the same time the best in each other. They get on each other's nerves and get drawn to each other. Wilder and Hermes are really special and easy to remember, because they are not lost among the other characters of the novels we read. They are different from them and therefore memorable.
As for the story told in "Wildfire", it is based on the fairly well-known theme of evil from the depths of Tartarus. It should be noted, however, that unlike other books that use this motif, "Wildfire" is presented in a sometimes brutal, sometimes very personal way, because it concerns people Wilder knows, people close to him and therefore to a mortal who until recently was not aware of the existence of gods. I think that this is why the novel impresses us all the more and draws us into this story even deeper, because we are not sure how far the authors would go and how dramatic our characters' lives would be.
All things considered, "Wildfire" is a really good novel, with a captivating story, interesting characters and a wonderful, addictive universe. We fall in love with this book from the first pages and we simply can't put it away.
_____________________
„Wildfire” jest pierwszym tomem nowej serii autorstwa duetu Sam Burns oraz W.M. Fawkes zatytułowanej „Sons of Olympus”. Powieść ta jest powiązana z wcześniejszymi dziełami autorów wchodzącymi w skład serii „Lords of the Underworld”. Już na samym początku muszę więc wspomnieć, iż znajomość „Lords of the Underworld” nie jest wymagana, aby zrozumieć i w pełni cieszyć się „Wildfire”. Obie serie łączy jednak wspólne uniwersum, o którym muszę napisać kilka słów. To, co autorzy zaoferowali nam w „Wildfire” jest po prostu niesamowite. To urban fantasy pełną parą. Posługujący się magią śmiertelnicy, kilka fantastycznych istot i starożytni greccy bogowie w jednej powieści. Mówiąc krótko, wspaniałe, interesujące, uzależniające uniwersum, które nie pozwoli Wam o sobie zapomnieć. Kiedy już raz dacie się porwać przygodzie osadzonej w tym świecie, jesteście straceni dla świata realnego. Kiedy już zaczniecie czytać „Wildfire” i poznacie to uniwersum, nie będziecie chcieli odłożyć powieści, nie będziecie chcieli wracać do własnej codzienności.
Kolejną zaletą „Wildfire” są główni bohaterowie, którzy spośród innych wyróżniają się tym, że są po prostu trudni, uciążliwi, niemili. Jednym słowem, inni niż wszyscy. Jasne, po pewnym czasie pokazują się nam od tej lepszej strony, którą łatwo pokochać, ale ich największą zaletą jest właśnie fakt, iż nie są wspaniali, słodcy, uczynni, idealni. Co więcej, obaj mają o sobie niskie mniemanie, nie do końca wierzą w swoje siły i możliwości, są samotni, a w ich młodości zabrakło rodzicielskiej troski i wsparcia. I co z tego, że jeden z naszych bohaterów to mag, a drugi bóg? Obaj mają ze sobą wiele wspólnego. Dodajmy, że wydobywają z siebie nawzajem to co najgorsze i jednocześnie to co najlepsze. Działają sobie na nerwy i lgną do siebie nawzajem. Wilder i Hermes są naprawdę wyjątkowi i łatwo ich zapamiętać, gdyż nie nikną pośród innych bohaterów czytanych przez nas powieści. Różnią się od nich i dlatego zapadają w pamięć.
Co się zaś tyczy historii przedstawionej w „Wildfire”, opiera się ona na dosyć znanym motywie zła z głębi Tartaru. Należy jednak zauważyć, że w przeciwieństwie do innych tytułów, w których pojawia się taki motyw, w „Wildfire” został przedstawiony w sposób czasami brutalny, czasami bardzo osobisty, ponieważ dosięgający osób znanych, bliskich Wilderowi, a więc śmiertelnikowi, który do niedawna nie był świadom istnienia bogów. Myślę, że właśnie dzięki temu powieść robi na nas tym większe wrażenie i tym głębiej nas wciąga, ponieważ nie jesteśmy pewni, jak daleko posuną się autorzy i jak dramatycznym uczynią życie naszych bohaterów.
Podsumowując, „Wildfire” to naprawdę dobra powieść, wciągająca historia, interesujący bohaterowie i wspaniałe, uzależniające uniwersum. W tej książce zakochujemy się od pierwszych stron i nie potrafimy się od niej oderwać.
March 16, 2021
Freaking Amazing
This was incredible, fast paced and I never wanted it to end.
Hermes and Wilder have scorching hot chemistry, they are sharing towards each other and ready to do battle for one another and it was incredible to see it unfold!!!
Can't wait for Hephaestus book and even more Ares. These sons of Olympus have tragic stories and they break my heart.
This was incredible, fast paced and I never wanted it to end.
Hermes and Wilder have scorching hot chemistry, they are sharing towards each other and ready to do battle for one another and it was incredible to see it unfold!!!
Can't wait for Hephaestus book and even more Ares. These sons of Olympus have tragic stories and they break my heart.
October 22, 2020
Not horrible, but couldn’t connect with any of the characters
Read
October 23, 2020ARC received from GRR in exchange for an honest review.
Before this book, I had read these authors'' novella in the H2H anthology, volume 4. I had loved their novella and as soon as I saw this in my ARC list. I jumped right on the chance to get it.
This series is a spinoff of their Underworld Series, but I didn't feel lost at all.
What I loved!
- The Characters
Hermes: He is deliciously dirty, loved to rile Wilder up and low-key vulnerable. being the black sheep of his family isn't easy, and finding his match in wilder helps him grow into a better God.... maybe not much better, but hey! And he is funny AF! #GoodEnough
Wilder: the grumpy teacher/fire mage was such a blast to read about. I'm a sucker for a grumpy prickly character, and Wilder was just adorable. Trying so hard not to fall for Hermes, not to laugh or smile or be charmed by him was so cute. and then came Melisandre …. #ScowlHarder
- The Plot...
The soulless bodies of young mages are turning up all over the university, and Hermes wants to know who is stepping on his toes. he parades around as Wilder's bodyguard' in an attempt to protect him, and find out more information about these bodies. the plot development was intriguing and the little details gave you just enough to stay curious. #ThePlotThickens
- The Romance...
So these guys hate each other.... Hermes is incorrigible, Wilder is prickly as a cactus and they both get onto each other's nerves. But those strong feelings pave the way to a love so sweet and so worth the wait. once they bond, beyond the physical, it was such a lovely thing to read about. also, those nicknames that Hermes threw at Wilder... #precious
- The Heat...
Them men get hot and heavy from the beginning. They can't seem to keep their hands off of each other, even though they "hate" each other. Wilder's prickliness turns into bossiness, while Hermes surrenders beautifully in his passion. #LetOurBodiesDoTheTalking
- The Chapter Titles...
So dang fun! I was excited to match the title to what would happen in the chapter. #ItsTheSmallThings
- The HEA...
Swoooooon! And also, a glimpse into the next book! yay!!#SoManyFeels
The story could have been a tiny bit shorter, but all in all... 4 star read!!!
Before this book, I had read these authors'' novella in the H2H anthology, volume 4. I had loved their novella and as soon as I saw this in my ARC list. I jumped right on the chance to get it.
This series is a spinoff of their Underworld Series, but I didn't feel lost at all.
What I loved!
- The Characters
Hermes: He is deliciously dirty, loved to rile Wilder up and low-key vulnerable. being the black sheep of his family isn't easy, and finding his match in wilder helps him grow into a better God.... maybe not much better, but hey! And he is funny AF! #GoodEnough
Wilder: the grumpy teacher/fire mage was such a blast to read about. I'm a sucker for a grumpy prickly character, and Wilder was just adorable. Trying so hard not to fall for Hermes, not to laugh or smile or be charmed by him was so cute. and then came Melisandre …. #ScowlHarder
- The Plot...
The soulless bodies of young mages are turning up all over the university, and Hermes wants to know who is stepping on his toes. he parades around as Wilder's bodyguard' in an attempt to protect him, and find out more information about these bodies. the plot development was intriguing and the little details gave you just enough to stay curious. #ThePlotThickens
- The Romance...
So these guys hate each other.... Hermes is incorrigible, Wilder is prickly as a cactus and they both get onto each other's nerves. But those strong feelings pave the way to a love so sweet and so worth the wait. once they bond, beyond the physical, it was such a lovely thing to read about. also, those nicknames that Hermes threw at Wilder... #precious
- The Heat...
Them men get hot and heavy from the beginning. They can't seem to keep their hands off of each other, even though they "hate" each other. Wilder's prickliness turns into bossiness, while Hermes surrenders beautifully in his passion. #LetOurBodiesDoTheTalking
- The Chapter Titles...
So dang fun! I was excited to match the title to what would happen in the chapter. #ItsTheSmallThings
- The HEA...
Swoooooon! And also, a glimpse into the next book! yay!!#SoManyFeels
The story could have been a tiny bit shorter, but all in all... 4 star read!!!
February 15, 2021
I'd been planning on reading this after finishing the Lords of the Underworld series.
I mean, this is Pratt's book and I really wanted to see how he "redeems" himself after we get introduced to him in Prince of Death. Because obviously, he has underlying issues that are only hinted at in Prisoner of Shadows.
For some reason, I was delayed in reading Patron of Mercy. (Probably because I sometimes don't *want* to read books that are close to the typical romance tropes-though, I have to say these books do have some decent action/conflict that rounds out the story for me.) But after reading that book....
OMG, I needed to find out more about Hermes. I mean he's a right a$$hole in Prince of Death, questionable in Prisoner of Shadows, but somehow redeemable in Patron of Mercy.
So, when I realized that this book was Pratt's and Hermes' book... I was *IN*
This book made me laugh. Out loud even. And Cry. (OMG Melly!).
And there was one moment (the ambrosia moment in the underworld for those who know, and I'm not gonna do a spoiler), where my reaction was "F*@K Yeah Wilder!" (maybe even with a fist pump, well, in my head, cause I was holding things...)
I'm not exactly sure why, because all the characters are great, and all have some vulnerability, but for some reason Wilder and Hermes have been my favorite thus far.
And, I can't wait to read the rest of the series. When it gets written...
Which after reading this book, I hope we get Ares' story... soon. (Please).
I mean, this is Pratt's book and I really wanted to see how he "redeems" himself after we get introduced to him in Prince of Death. Because obviously, he has underlying issues that are only hinted at in Prisoner of Shadows.
For some reason, I was delayed in reading Patron of Mercy. (Probably because I sometimes don't *want* to read books that are close to the typical romance tropes-though, I have to say these books do have some decent action/conflict that rounds out the story for me.) But after reading that book....
OMG, I needed to find out more about Hermes. I mean he's a right a$$hole in Prince of Death, questionable in Prisoner of Shadows, but somehow redeemable in Patron of Mercy.
So, when I realized that this book was Pratt's and Hermes' book... I was *IN*
This book made me laugh. Out loud even. And Cry. (OMG Melly!).
And there was one moment (the ambrosia moment in the underworld for those who know, and I'm not gonna do a spoiler), where my reaction was "F*@K Yeah Wilder!" (maybe even with a fist pump, well, in my head, cause I was holding things...)
I'm not exactly sure why, because all the characters are great, and all have some vulnerability, but for some reason Wilder and Hermes have been my favorite thus far.
And, I can't wait to read the rest of the series. When it gets written...
Which after reading this book, I hope we get Ares' story... soon. (Please).
December 31, 2020
This book follows our characters Hermes and Wilder as they try to fight escaped Titans and a break out in hell's prison while trying to protect the school and it's students where Wilder works. It's a very loose Greek Mythology inspired story with snarky characters, sassy dialogues, witty banter and some hard love. It's kind of enemies to lovers but with some forced proximity thrown in. I laughed so hard at times after reading certain scenes.
.
[🌟🌟🌟🌟]
.
First, I really loved how the setting of the story and the world draws inspiration from the Greek Mythology. I got to read nore about the actual mythology when I started getting confused with all the names of the gods and who they were. It was a really fun ride to learn about them and compare it to the roles they play in this book. Wilder was a really interesting character with lots of snarky dialogues and secretly mushy personality. Hermes was just a goofball of goodness and pairing him with Wilder just made it so much funnier. I mean there were brownie references and childish tantrums that it was seriously funny even when the world was about to be destroyed.
.
Coming to the storyline and Character development, I think I really liked Wilder, his students and Hermes as a group and they kind of helped each other grow as Characters in this book. They drew confidence and determination from one another and the author had captured that transition really well. Especially Wilder when faced with an immortal, drew power from his support system rather than just blindly going in. Athena aka Dean pissed me off at times, but oh well what else you can expect from the Strategist?? The highlight of the story was Melisandre aka the cat who hates/loves anyone. I would have loved to know more about Wilder's family or his background more. We don't know much about him and I kinda wanted to read more. Other than that, I really liked this twisted, humourous story and I can't wait to read about the rest of the Zeus's children!
.
Thank you @gayromancereviews for the review copy!
Kindle/ Arc/ November 2020
.
[🌟🌟🌟🌟]
.
First, I really loved how the setting of the story and the world draws inspiration from the Greek Mythology. I got to read nore about the actual mythology when I started getting confused with all the names of the gods and who they were. It was a really fun ride to learn about them and compare it to the roles they play in this book. Wilder was a really interesting character with lots of snarky dialogues and secretly mushy personality. Hermes was just a goofball of goodness and pairing him with Wilder just made it so much funnier. I mean there were brownie references and childish tantrums that it was seriously funny even when the world was about to be destroyed.
.
Coming to the storyline and Character development, I think I really liked Wilder, his students and Hermes as a group and they kind of helped each other grow as Characters in this book. They drew confidence and determination from one another and the author had captured that transition really well. Especially Wilder when faced with an immortal, drew power from his support system rather than just blindly going in. Athena aka Dean pissed me off at times, but oh well what else you can expect from the Strategist?? The highlight of the story was Melisandre aka the cat who hates/loves anyone. I would have loved to know more about Wilder's family or his background more. We don't know much about him and I kinda wanted to read more. Other than that, I really liked this twisted, humourous story and I can't wait to read about the rest of the Zeus's children!
.
Thank you @gayromancereviews for the review copy!
Kindle/ Arc/ November 2020
April 10, 2023
Burning passion (for the unexpected)
Hermes was a bit of a constant in the Lords of the Underworld series. It is fairly necessary to read that series before this one; you could be okay but any of the characters that overlap (which is many) and the backstory that has occurred is lost if you don't read it.
So Hermes really seems to have started almost everything going on in the these series for the Greek gods. Now that things are getting worse with a war brewing Hermes is ready to run as always, when he keeps running into a mage who is running into dead bodies. It quickly becomes clear those dead bodies are drained mages and Wilder is a powerful mage who is in danger. Hermes gets tasked with protecting Wilder which means staying put, something he has never done.
Wilder is not exactly a nice guy. He is very blunt and doesn't have much in the way of friends with his gruff and sometimes miserable exterior. He isn't a soft teacher and instead deals with the most advanced mage students to hone their potential, but he is a demanding and exacting teacher. Despite all this he cares when his students are dying and doesn't think of getting out of trouble himself but if protecting those he sees as under his charge. With literal gods involved that task suddenly becomes more demanding and maybe even impossible.
Hermes and Wilder are an odd pair. Neither are overly well liked in ways, but those ways are who they are. Instead of how it is in some stories where being together they change or soften, these two stay the same. Somehow their jagged edges simply work well with each other and their work to help others show who their true friends and family are.
It is clear that this book is the start of a war. Their is a battle being waged in this story that finds a type of resolution but all of the Greek gods are in trouble as the past is coming for them and in the present their powers are so changed. It will be fascinating to see how this story goes and where it leads these immortal beings and their unusual loves.
Hermes was a bit of a constant in the Lords of the Underworld series. It is fairly necessary to read that series before this one; you could be okay but any of the characters that overlap (which is many) and the backstory that has occurred is lost if you don't read it.
So Hermes really seems to have started almost everything going on in the these series for the Greek gods. Now that things are getting worse with a war brewing Hermes is ready to run as always, when he keeps running into a mage who is running into dead bodies. It quickly becomes clear those dead bodies are drained mages and Wilder is a powerful mage who is in danger. Hermes gets tasked with protecting Wilder which means staying put, something he has never done.
Wilder is not exactly a nice guy. He is very blunt and doesn't have much in the way of friends with his gruff and sometimes miserable exterior. He isn't a soft teacher and instead deals with the most advanced mage students to hone their potential, but he is a demanding and exacting teacher. Despite all this he cares when his students are dying and doesn't think of getting out of trouble himself but if protecting those he sees as under his charge. With literal gods involved that task suddenly becomes more demanding and maybe even impossible.
Hermes and Wilder are an odd pair. Neither are overly well liked in ways, but those ways are who they are. Instead of how it is in some stories where being together they change or soften, these two stay the same. Somehow their jagged edges simply work well with each other and their work to help others show who their true friends and family are.
It is clear that this book is the start of a war. Their is a battle being waged in this story that finds a type of resolution but all of the Greek gods are in trouble as the past is coming for them and in the present their powers are so changed. It will be fascinating to see how this story goes and where it leads these immortal beings and their unusual loves.
October 26, 2020
Having not read anything by either Sam Burns or W.M. Fawkes I worried that I might get lost in their latest collaboration, Wildfire, which begins a new series or them. Since I love mythology I never felt lost when introduced to the myriad of Greek gods. I absolutely loved the main character, Hermes--a trickster god, currently in hot water with the big guy himself, Zeus, primarily because people keep turning up dead with their souls sucked out of them, hence no soul or Hermes to escort. He is basically a bit of a horny devil-may-care type of loner and so incredibly fun to get to know unless you're Wilder Pratt. Wilder is a battle mage who is definitely anti-social and would rather spend nights making brownies and hanging with his cat rather than be social yet he does miss his last boyfriend which often drives him to the local watering hole to let loose. The two of these guys together is absolutely magical--when they are not both certain that the other cannot possibly want them around long-term.
Dead mages keep turning up around Wilder who teaches at Banneker College--a magic university that trains mages. Hermes is determined to get to the bottom of what is going on in order to get back in the good graces of Zeus. Wilder, too, is concerned and exasperate dthat Hermes doesn't seem to really care about the dead mages themselves. Hermes and Wilder set off sparks whenever they are together--both in their snarky repartee and in the bedroom. They are perfectly matched as opposites attracting one another and honestly the brownies, the tender vulnerable moments where they allow each other in--it is all so marvelous.
I will say that if you don't have an handle on Greek mythology you may get a bit lost in the plethora of characters introduced in this story but it is worth it to read the preface and familiarize yourself with the various gods because this story is really quite wonderful once you do. I look forward to the next installment in this series.
Dead mages keep turning up around Wilder who teaches at Banneker College--a magic university that trains mages. Hermes is determined to get to the bottom of what is going on in order to get back in the good graces of Zeus. Wilder, too, is concerned and exasperate dthat Hermes doesn't seem to really care about the dead mages themselves. Hermes and Wilder set off sparks whenever they are together--both in their snarky repartee and in the bedroom. They are perfectly matched as opposites attracting one another and honestly the brownies, the tender vulnerable moments where they allow each other in--it is all so marvelous.
I will say that if you don't have an handle on Greek mythology you may get a bit lost in the plethora of characters introduced in this story but it is worth it to read the preface and familiarize yourself with the various gods because this story is really quite wonderful once you do. I look forward to the next installment in this series.
October 15, 2020
I didn't know I needed a romance involving a snarky Greek god with daddy issues and a put-together professor, but after reading this epic adventure I'm 100% on board the Wilder-and-Hermes train. These authors have truly created something special, in my opinion, and I'm really excited to see where this series goes. I didn't know this was a spinoff of the Lords of the Underworld series, and though there were several references to some crazy events that went down with Theo Ward, for the most part I'd say this book is a standalone. I certainly didn't have any trouble warming up to the characters, and the intriguing murder mystery/soul snatcher plotline was paced well enough for me to keep up without any issues. Hermes and Wilder were absolutely adorable, even in the beginning when Wilder was trying so hard to be grumpy about needing protection from someone. I loved their dynamic, whether they were bantering with each other, taking each other apart in flames of intense passion, or spending nights wrapped intimately in each other's arms. Instead of going with the "almighty and powerful" angle, these authors really humanized all the gods and goddesses in this story, and I loved seeing how relatably imperfect their relationships were at times. While the events in this book built up to a satisfying showdown, there's obviously still a greater evil out there in the world that has to be taken care of. I don't know where this series is going to go next, but with such an exciting start I'll definitely be paying attention to when the next book comes out!
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
November 10, 2020
5 Brownie Stars!!!
If you're planning to read this book and you haven't read The Lords of the Underworld series, turn around now and do so. Not only do Theo and Lysandros from book 1 feature prominently in this book, but this new series is set in the same world as TLotU, so they're connected and as such, you'll get more enjoyment by reading them in order.
I loved Hermes. He was fun and quirky, yet also vulnerable, even if he tried not to let others see past his jovial veneer. While I wasn't too sure about Wilder during the first half of the book—he was too stuffy and haughty—he definitely won me over during the second portion and by the end, I loved him almost as much as I loved Hermes. They had amazing chemistry and watching them fall for each other was delightful.
While the authors take some liberties with Greek mythology, this is urban fantasy, and in this world Mages, Greek gods and demigods interact with each other. And really, it's done in such a brilliant way that you can't do anything but be in awe that Sam Burns and W.M. Fawkes manage to do all this in such a realistic manner and I can't wait to find out which of Zeus's wayward sons is next in the series.
Overall, I really enjoyed this action-packed, fun, masterfully written book. From the opposites-attract romance to the exciting fight with Typhon, it was so good, I found it difficult to put it down for boring things such as work. Definitely one you don't want to miss!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
If you're planning to read this book and you haven't read The Lords of the Underworld series, turn around now and do so. Not only do Theo and Lysandros from book 1 feature prominently in this book, but this new series is set in the same world as TLotU, so they're connected and as such, you'll get more enjoyment by reading them in order.
I loved Hermes. He was fun and quirky, yet also vulnerable, even if he tried not to let others see past his jovial veneer. While I wasn't too sure about Wilder during the first half of the book—he was too stuffy and haughty—he definitely won me over during the second portion and by the end, I loved him almost as much as I loved Hermes. They had amazing chemistry and watching them fall for each other was delightful.
While the authors take some liberties with Greek mythology, this is urban fantasy, and in this world Mages, Greek gods and demigods interact with each other. And really, it's done in such a brilliant way that you can't do anything but be in awe that Sam Burns and W.M. Fawkes manage to do all this in such a realistic manner and I can't wait to find out which of Zeus's wayward sons is next in the series.
Overall, I really enjoyed this action-packed, fun, masterfully written book. From the opposites-attract romance to the exciting fight with Typhon, it was so good, I found it difficult to put it down for boring things such as work. Definitely one you don't want to miss!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
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