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Guardians of Hades #0.5
Queen of the Underworld
Hades, the wickedly dark god-king of the Underworld, needs a queen.
And he’s chosen Persephone.
All Persephone has ever desired is control of her own life, and someone noticing her once in a while. Kept in her mother’s shadow, and overlooked by the entirety of Olympus, her dream seems impossible… and now she’s doomed to wed a dull god of her mother’s choosing…
Until she crosses paths with a handsome, dark warrior who rouses wildfire heat in her veins—a male whose immense power is unmistakable, and who matches the fearful tales whispered in Olympus—stories of a cruel, heartless king who rules his realm of death with an iron fist.
When Hades abducts her and imprisons her in the depths of the Underworld, a dormant part of her awakens. And as she slowly discovers the truth about him, Persephone isn’t sure whether the snarling, dark beast of a king is her doom… or her saviour… but she knows one thing…
She will embrace the fire he awakens in her with every heated glance, and every vicious growl.
And use it to tame him and forge her dreams into reality.
Because, Persephone, the quiet, gentle goddess of nature, desires a king.
And nothing will stop her from claiming his black heart.
Queen of the Underworld is a forced proximity, enemies-to-lovers paranormal romance novel retelling the Greek myth of Hades and Persephone, and a prequel in my Guardians of Hades series. In the vein of an adult beauty and the beast, it features a grumpy-sunshine pairing that will steal your heart, with a secretly cinnamon roll hero and a secretly fiery heroine, and a powerful forever kind of love. All Guardians of Hades books have no cliffhangers, a guaranteed happily ever after, and some strong language. Enjoy!
And he’s chosen Persephone.
All Persephone has ever desired is control of her own life, and someone noticing her once in a while. Kept in her mother’s shadow, and overlooked by the entirety of Olympus, her dream seems impossible… and now she’s doomed to wed a dull god of her mother’s choosing…
Until she crosses paths with a handsome, dark warrior who rouses wildfire heat in her veins—a male whose immense power is unmistakable, and who matches the fearful tales whispered in Olympus—stories of a cruel, heartless king who rules his realm of death with an iron fist.
When Hades abducts her and imprisons her in the depths of the Underworld, a dormant part of her awakens. And as she slowly discovers the truth about him, Persephone isn’t sure whether the snarling, dark beast of a king is her doom… or her saviour… but she knows one thing…
She will embrace the fire he awakens in her with every heated glance, and every vicious growl.
And use it to tame him and forge her dreams into reality.
Because, Persephone, the quiet, gentle goddess of nature, desires a king.
And nothing will stop her from claiming his black heart.
Queen of the Underworld is a forced proximity, enemies-to-lovers paranormal romance novel retelling the Greek myth of Hades and Persephone, and a prequel in my Guardians of Hades series. In the vein of an adult beauty and the beast, it features a grumpy-sunshine pairing that will steal your heart, with a secretly cinnamon roll hero and a secretly fiery heroine, and a powerful forever kind of love. All Guardians of Hades books have no cliffhangers, a guaranteed happily ever after, and some strong language. Enjoy!
304 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 31, 2023
92 people are currently reading
596 people want to read
About the author
Felicity Heaton
137 books5,057 followersFelicity Heaton is a New York Times, USA Today and international best-selling author writing passionate paranormal romance books. In her books she creates detailed worlds, twisting plots, mind-blowing action, intense emotion and heart-stopping romances with leading men that vary from dark deadly vampires to sexy shape-shifters and wicked werewolves, to sinful angels and hot demons!
If you're a fan of paranormal romance authors Lara Adrian, J R Ward, Sherrilyn Kenyon, Gena Showalter and Christine Feehan then you will enjoy her books too.
If you love your angels a little dark and wicked, the best-selling Her Angel series is for you. If you like strong, powerful, and dark vampires then try the Vampires Realm series or any of her stand-alone vampire romance books. If you’re looking for vampire romances that are sinful, passionate and erotic then try the best-selling Vampire Erotic Theatre series. Or if you prefer huge detailed worlds filled with hot-blooded alpha males in every species, from elves to demons to dragons to shifters and angels, then take a look at the new Eternal Mates series.
You can find out more about Felicity at:
Website - http://www.felicityheaton.co.uk/
Blog - http://www.felicityheaton.co.uk/blog/
Twitter - http://twitter.com/felicityheaton
Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/felicityheaton
Pinterest - http://pinterest.com/felicityheaton/
Newsletter - http://www.felicityheaton.co.uk/newsl...
If you're a fan of paranormal romance authors Lara Adrian, J R Ward, Sherrilyn Kenyon, Gena Showalter and Christine Feehan then you will enjoy her books too.
If you love your angels a little dark and wicked, the best-selling Her Angel series is for you. If you like strong, powerful, and dark vampires then try the Vampires Realm series or any of her stand-alone vampire romance books. If you’re looking for vampire romances that are sinful, passionate and erotic then try the best-selling Vampire Erotic Theatre series. Or if you prefer huge detailed worlds filled with hot-blooded alpha males in every species, from elves to demons to dragons to shifters and angels, then take a look at the new Eternal Mates series.
You can find out more about Felicity at:
Website - http://www.felicityheaton.co.uk/
Blog - http://www.felicityheaton.co.uk/blog/
Twitter - http://twitter.com/felicityheaton
Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/felicityheaton
Pinterest - http://pinterest.com/felicityheaton/
Newsletter - http://www.felicityheaton.co.uk/newsl...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
May 7, 2023
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.Queen of the Underworld is the prequel to Felicity Heaton's Guardians of Hades series. Having read Ares and Valen the first two books in the series, I was curious to see where it all began, hence my decision to read Queen of the Underworld.
It pains me to have to write this review, especially since the author is a favourite of mine - and I’ve enjoyed all her books that I’ve read so far. Unfortunately, Queen of the Underworld did not fall into my favourite category. I had high hopes for Hades and Persephone’s story, but it failed to deliver as per my expectations.
The story started out with Hades dreaming of finding love like his brothers Zeus and Poseidon. He teleported to Olympus where he landed in a special garden. In this garden he saw the beautiful Persephone and he knew he wanted her for his queen. He approaches Zeus seeking permission to take her as his queen. When Zeus granted him his wish he kidnaps her and takes her back to his kingdom, the Underworld. The events which unfolded from this action led to many angsty moments between the Hades and Persephone.
Queen of the Underworld did not come close to what I’ve come to expect from this author. This was longest and painfully boring story I’ve read in the longest time. It took me eight excruciating days to get through this one. It would seem I’m a sucker for punishment.
For the majority of the story readers are subjected to Hades and Persephone’s insecurities, uncertainties, indecisiveness and constant woe is me internal monologue. One minute Persephone is thinking of ravishing Hades then the next she wants nothing to do with him. Hades also runs hot and cold for most of the story. At one point he is calm and then the darkness takes over and he becomes a raging monster. Now I have no problem with their insecurities, especially after learning the reasons behind them - but when the majority of the story focuses on it with nothing much else happening besides the characters’ never ending internal monologue, then that’s where I would have issues.
An event with one of Hades warriors had the potential to change the trajectory of the story and bring some colour into what was becoming a lack luster story. Alas, not much happened and that aspect of the story was short-lived. It wasn’t until the last couple of chapters that the story took a turn, culminating in a magical ending that would have been worthy of a great love story.
I loved the world the author created in this series and I enjoyed seeing how it all started. It was interesting seeing the Underworld and Olympus through the author’s eyes.
Despite my disappointment with this installment, Heaton remains on my favourite author’s list. This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading
It pains me to have to write this review, especially since the author is a favourite of mine - and I’ve enjoyed all her books that I’ve read so far. Unfortunately, Queen of the Underworld did not fall into my favourite category. I had high hopes for Hades and Persephone’s story, but it failed to deliver as per my expectations.
The story started out with Hades dreaming of finding love like his brothers Zeus and Poseidon. He teleported to Olympus where he landed in a special garden. In this garden he saw the beautiful Persephone and he knew he wanted her for his queen. He approaches Zeus seeking permission to take her as his queen. When Zeus granted him his wish he kidnaps her and takes her back to his kingdom, the Underworld. The events which unfolded from this action led to many angsty moments between the Hades and Persephone.
Queen of the Underworld did not come close to what I’ve come to expect from this author. This was longest and painfully boring story I’ve read in the longest time. It took me eight excruciating days to get through this one. It would seem I’m a sucker for punishment.
For the majority of the story readers are subjected to Hades and Persephone’s insecurities, uncertainties, indecisiveness and constant woe is me internal monologue. One minute Persephone is thinking of ravishing Hades then the next she wants nothing to do with him. Hades also runs hot and cold for most of the story. At one point he is calm and then the darkness takes over and he becomes a raging monster. Now I have no problem with their insecurities, especially after learning the reasons behind them - but when the majority of the story focuses on it with nothing much else happening besides the characters’ never ending internal monologue, then that’s where I would have issues.
An event with one of Hades warriors had the potential to change the trajectory of the story and bring some colour into what was becoming a lack luster story. Alas, not much happened and that aspect of the story was short-lived. It wasn’t until the last couple of chapters that the story took a turn, culminating in a magical ending that would have been worthy of a great love story.
I loved the world the author created in this series and I enjoyed seeing how it all started. It was interesting seeing the Underworld and Olympus through the author’s eyes.
Despite my disappointment with this installment, Heaton remains on my favourite author’s list. This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading
December 4, 2023
It surprises me how high of ratings this had on Hoopla, because the relationship in here was really toxic. Yes, most of us are aware of the Hades/Persephone abduction story, so I’m not sure why the author didn’t try to update the story with healthier relationship guidelines. There’s literal parallels between this relationship and the typical abusive relationships we see in reality, like “He wasn’t himself when he hurt me!” And “I just can’t control myself when I’m around her.”
I respect that people are into “dark fantasy” but it’s so important to show consent! Not a book for me, and for anybody else who decides to read it, be sure to read it with a critical eye.
I respect that people are into “dark fantasy” but it’s so important to show consent! Not a book for me, and for anybody else who decides to read it, be sure to read it with a critical eye.
January 25, 2023
I love the author’s version of Hades and Persephone’s story. Hades is a dark male that is filled with an anger and darkness that is deadly. Persephone is sweet but also brave. They are two sides of the same coin. Dark and Light that need each other. The story pulls you in and brings you one of the most famous romances of mythology. This may be a prequel to the existing series but I found it a beautiful story that can stand on its own.
January 26, 2023
After seeing Hades and Persephone's brood go toe-to-toe with, well, everything thrown at them (while finding their other halves!), we now get to see how things played out when the god-king and god-queen of the Underworld first met.
Hades wasn't in the best place when he first laid eyes on his queen. His darkness had its hooks in him deep and he was consumed by blood and chaos. I mean, the guy stole Persephone and spirited her away to a bespelled tower in the Underworld to convince her to be his queen. His darkness wanted to skip the convincing part, too. So, yeah. Hades wasn't in the best place when he first crossed paths with Persephone.
As for the soon-to-be-queen, she was...well, kind of forgotten and overlooked by most on Olympus. Her powers were considered nothing special and she was constantly overshadowed by her mother. Frankly, these things left on a mark on poor Persephone. She's hesitant and self-conscious and she absolutely can't fathom why someone as powerful as Hades would be interested in someone like her unless it was a joke. It takes time and a few heated encounters before she begins to see that he really does want her exactly as he says he does.
In other words, these two have to fight themselves as much as each other as they work toward a place where they could be in a relationship.
A tormented hero, a realm that responds to his moods, a heroine who has been taught over and over again that she's nothing, betrayal, complicated family bonds, and a couple who are oh so right for one another. *thumbs up*
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
Hades wasn't in the best place when he first laid eyes on his queen. His darkness had its hooks in him deep and he was consumed by blood and chaos. I mean, the guy stole Persephone and spirited her away to a bespelled tower in the Underworld to convince her to be his queen. His darkness wanted to skip the convincing part, too. So, yeah. Hades wasn't in the best place when he first crossed paths with Persephone.
As for the soon-to-be-queen, she was...well, kind of forgotten and overlooked by most on Olympus. Her powers were considered nothing special and she was constantly overshadowed by her mother. Frankly, these things left on a mark on poor Persephone. She's hesitant and self-conscious and she absolutely can't fathom why someone as powerful as Hades would be interested in someone like her unless it was a joke. It takes time and a few heated encounters before she begins to see that he really does want her exactly as he says he does.
In other words, these two have to fight themselves as much as each other as they work toward a place where they could be in a relationship.
A tormented hero, a realm that responds to his moods, a heroine who has been taught over and over again that she's nothing, betrayal, complicated family bonds, and a couple who are oh so right for one another. *thumbs up*
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
January 22, 2023
QUEEN OF THE UNDERWORLD is the prequel story line in Felicity Heaton’s GUARDIANS OF HADES paranormal/fantasy romance series based in Greek Mythology. This is Hades, god of the Underworld, and Persephone’s story line.
Told from third person perspective QUEEN OF THE UNDERWORLD is the retelling of Hades, god of the Underworld, and Persephone’s love story. Hades has watched from afar as his brothers, Zeus and Poseidon, had fallen in love and taken a mate. Hades was jealous; angered that he was tricked into ruling the Underworld where the madness and darkness had taken control. Exiting a portal onto Olympus, Hades would come face to face with Persephone, the goddess with whom he would fall in love. With ‘permission’ from Zeus, Hades would claim Persephone as his Queen but all was not well, and Persephone’s mother Demeter was about to reign down H*ll on Earth. As Hades and Persephone’s relationship blossomed into something more, there would be those in the Underworld and Olympus who hoped to destroy the woman Hade’s loved.
QUEEN OF THE UNDERWORLD is an enemies to lovers, forced proximity romance; a love affair between lightness and dark, good and evil, life and death, winter and summer. The relationship between Hades and Persephone is tempestuous at best but Persephone quickly sees the darkness, the pain and the sorrow, buried just below the surface of the man with whom she will fall in love. The premise is entertaining and captivating-a narrative paraphrasing the Greek love story comparable to the original; the romance is fated and seductive; the characters are magical and enthralling.
www.thereadingcafe.com
Told from third person perspective QUEEN OF THE UNDERWORLD is the retelling of Hades, god of the Underworld, and Persephone’s love story. Hades has watched from afar as his brothers, Zeus and Poseidon, had fallen in love and taken a mate. Hades was jealous; angered that he was tricked into ruling the Underworld where the madness and darkness had taken control. Exiting a portal onto Olympus, Hades would come face to face with Persephone, the goddess with whom he would fall in love. With ‘permission’ from Zeus, Hades would claim Persephone as his Queen but all was not well, and Persephone’s mother Demeter was about to reign down H*ll on Earth. As Hades and Persephone’s relationship blossomed into something more, there would be those in the Underworld and Olympus who hoped to destroy the woman Hade’s loved.
QUEEN OF THE UNDERWORLD is an enemies to lovers, forced proximity romance; a love affair between lightness and dark, good and evil, life and death, winter and summer. The relationship between Hades and Persephone is tempestuous at best but Persephone quickly sees the darkness, the pain and the sorrow, buried just below the surface of the man with whom she will fall in love. The premise is entertaining and captivating-a narrative paraphrasing the Greek love story comparable to the original; the romance is fated and seductive; the characters are magical and enthralling.
www.thereadingcafe.com
January 31, 2023
We all know the myth about Persephone being abducted by Hades and eventually being forced to spend part of the year in Hades and part in Olympus. But have you ever wondered why she was abducted and what happened while she was in the Underworld? The Queen of the Underworld, prequel to and 10th book in The Guardians of Hades series by Felicity Heaton, provides those answers.
Persephone is known as simple nature goddess - no one special. Persephone's mother has arranged her to marry another simple God that she has no interest in. Before the marriage can happen, a handsome warrior grabs her from her forest, takes her to a dark and forbidding land, and locks her in a tower.
Hades is known as the cruel and heartless king of the Underworld. When he sees the beautiful Persephone, he decides he wants her as his Queen and steals her to the Underworld. He also binds her power is bound so she cannot escape.
As Hades and Persephone get to know each other, they work through their fears and expectations - of themselves and others. Along the way, they fall in love and grow into the people they were meant to be all along (just ask the Fates!).
We the reader have a very enjoyable tale, along with some tidbits about the two that have been mentioned in other books in the series. As always, Felicity Heaton pulls you into the story so much so that you feel deeply what the characters feel. I highly recommend this addition to the Guardians of Hades series. Also, because this is a prequel, you do NOT need to read the other books in the series first! So, what are you waiting for? Grab this book and read it!
Persephone is known as simple nature goddess - no one special. Persephone's mother has arranged her to marry another simple God that she has no interest in. Before the marriage can happen, a handsome warrior grabs her from her forest, takes her to a dark and forbidding land, and locks her in a tower.
Hades is known as the cruel and heartless king of the Underworld. When he sees the beautiful Persephone, he decides he wants her as his Queen and steals her to the Underworld. He also binds her power is bound so she cannot escape.
As Hades and Persephone get to know each other, they work through their fears and expectations - of themselves and others. Along the way, they fall in love and grow into the people they were meant to be all along (just ask the Fates!).
We the reader have a very enjoyable tale, along with some tidbits about the two that have been mentioned in other books in the series. As always, Felicity Heaton pulls you into the story so much so that you feel deeply what the characters feel. I highly recommend this addition to the Guardians of Hades series. Also, because this is a prequel, you do NOT need to read the other books in the series first! So, what are you waiting for? Grab this book and read it!
August 18, 2023
QUEEN OF THE UNDERWORLD is the prequel story line in Felicity Heaton’s GUARDIANS OF HADES paranormal/fantasy romance series based in Greek Mythology. This is Hades, god of the Underworld, and Persephone’s story line.
Told from third person perspective QUEEN OF THE UNDERWORLD is the retelling of Hades, god of the Underworld, and Persephone’s love story. Hades has watched from afar as his brothers, Zeus and Poseidon, had fallen in love and taken a mate. Hades was jealous; angered that he was tricked into ruling the Underworld where the madness and darkness had taken control. Exiting a portal onto Olympus, Hades would come face to face with Persephone, the goddess with whom he would fall in love. With ‘permission’ from Zeus, Hades would claim Persephone as his Queen but all was not well, and Persephone’s mother Demeter was about to reign down H*ll on Earth. As Hades and Persephone’s relationship blossomed into something more, there would be those in the Underworld and Olympus who hoped to destroy the woman Hade’s loved.
QUEEN OF THE UNDERWORLD is an enemies to lovers, forced proximity romance; a love affair between lightness and dark, good and evil, life and death, winter and summer. The relationship between Hades and Persephone is tempestuous at best but Persephone quickly sees the darkness, the pain and the sorrow, buried just below the surface of the man with whom she will fall in love. The premise is entertaining and captivating-a narrative paraphrasing the Greek love story comparable to the original; the romance is fated and seductive; the characters are magical and enthralling.
Told from third person perspective QUEEN OF THE UNDERWORLD is the retelling of Hades, god of the Underworld, and Persephone’s love story. Hades has watched from afar as his brothers, Zeus and Poseidon, had fallen in love and taken a mate. Hades was jealous; angered that he was tricked into ruling the Underworld where the madness and darkness had taken control. Exiting a portal onto Olympus, Hades would come face to face with Persephone, the goddess with whom he would fall in love. With ‘permission’ from Zeus, Hades would claim Persephone as his Queen but all was not well, and Persephone’s mother Demeter was about to reign down H*ll on Earth. As Hades and Persephone’s relationship blossomed into something more, there would be those in the Underworld and Olympus who hoped to destroy the woman Hade’s loved.
QUEEN OF THE UNDERWORLD is an enemies to lovers, forced proximity romance; a love affair between lightness and dark, good and evil, life and death, winter and summer. The relationship between Hades and Persephone is tempestuous at best but Persephone quickly sees the darkness, the pain and the sorrow, buried just below the surface of the man with whom she will fall in love. The premise is entertaining and captivating-a narrative paraphrasing the Greek love story comparable to the original; the romance is fated and seductive; the characters are magical and enthralling.
February 2, 2023
You simply can't go wrong picking up a Felicity Heaton book. Her latest Queen of the Underworld an amazing addition to her already very talented repertoire of reads.
For us to have bad we must have good as well, the god Hades oh yeah he definitely fits the bad, then there's Persephone all that is sweet goddess with an overbearing mother. May the dark bad, never meet up with sweet goodness. Or so they thought.
Felicity put her own spin on an amazing story of Hades and Persephone, a kidnapping that reveals more than is known about the god and man known as Hades and has Persephone thinking just maybe.
A lesser goddess for sure in the eyes of the all powerfuls, but not so much as her mother schemes to marry her off to a god of her choosing and then the *IT* hits the fan.
A delightful story to say with each turn of the page makes you just want more. Characters full of life, the soft that takes over the dangerous god. but hey now make no mistake that sweet you see in him is all about and for his Queen, well one Hades convinces her to be his. Persephone imbued with a wee bit of darkness? Hades becomes her strength, her coming into her own. Families I tell you if we could choose our own right? But the dark and light within these two butt heads, mingle, love, and grow contrary to what the other think or try to make happen. Can they love through all the angst? Betrayals? Can the sweet light be the safe harbor for such darkness? Ah but grab this story and find out for yourself, it's part of an amazing series but it so can be read alone. So yeah, enjoy.
For us to have bad we must have good as well, the god Hades oh yeah he definitely fits the bad, then there's Persephone all that is sweet goddess with an overbearing mother. May the dark bad, never meet up with sweet goodness. Or so they thought.
Felicity put her own spin on an amazing story of Hades and Persephone, a kidnapping that reveals more than is known about the god and man known as Hades and has Persephone thinking just maybe.
A lesser goddess for sure in the eyes of the all powerfuls, but not so much as her mother schemes to marry her off to a god of her choosing and then the *IT* hits the fan.
A delightful story to say with each turn of the page makes you just want more. Characters full of life, the soft that takes over the dangerous god. but hey now make no mistake that sweet you see in him is all about and for his Queen, well one Hades convinces her to be his. Persephone imbued with a wee bit of darkness? Hades becomes her strength, her coming into her own. Families I tell you if we could choose our own right? But the dark and light within these two butt heads, mingle, love, and grow contrary to what the other think or try to make happen. Can they love through all the angst? Betrayals? Can the sweet light be the safe harbor for such darkness? Ah but grab this story and find out for yourself, it's part of an amazing series but it so can be read alone. So yeah, enjoy.
January 31, 2023
Totally love her latest novel of “How Persephone met Hades” it’s epic!
I’m not going to give away too many spoilers, it’s just that, oh my gosh, this is very much one of those beautiful, everlasting, love stories, fraught with intense moments and so much nail biting angst at their first meetings and final seriously hot love scenes accumulation. It’s almost impossible to put down. I honestly didn’t think that the author could write this one even better than the last in this series but I am unreservedly mistaken, it totally is!
When dark god-king Hades makes his mind up? There’s no turning back for him, there’s no ifs’ or buts or giving up, and he’s absolutely made his mind up on having the goddess Persephone as his no matter how long it takes him to do that.
This story also involves some, kidnapping, fruit missiles, body ogling, by those that have spent their lives being silent, taking flak and, bending to the forceful, devious natures of others, all to their own detriment. This tale tells how damaging low self esteem is and how love can help them over come it, be strong in spirit and, finally come into their own and unite to create a bond so strong they can be and do anything they never knew they could and finally have a mental strength they can wield to fight for their forever.
This novel has no cliffhanger, which is fantastic, and an utterly heart melting HEA!
I’m not going to give away too many spoilers, it’s just that, oh my gosh, this is very much one of those beautiful, everlasting, love stories, fraught with intense moments and so much nail biting angst at their first meetings and final seriously hot love scenes accumulation. It’s almost impossible to put down. I honestly didn’t think that the author could write this one even better than the last in this series but I am unreservedly mistaken, it totally is!
When dark god-king Hades makes his mind up? There’s no turning back for him, there’s no ifs’ or buts or giving up, and he’s absolutely made his mind up on having the goddess Persephone as his no matter how long it takes him to do that.
This story also involves some, kidnapping, fruit missiles, body ogling, by those that have spent their lives being silent, taking flak and, bending to the forceful, devious natures of others, all to their own detriment. This tale tells how damaging low self esteem is and how love can help them over come it, be strong in spirit and, finally come into their own and unite to create a bond so strong they can be and do anything they never knew they could and finally have a mental strength they can wield to fight for their forever.
This novel has no cliffhanger, which is fantastic, and an utterly heart melting HEA!
January 27, 2023
This is a superbly written tale with a storyline that is complex and gripping, based on the Hades and Persephone of Greek mythology. The author has crafted characters of great depth who are battling their own inner demons and insecurities - albeit vastly different ones.
I felt saddened and angry for them both - Hades, living in a world of death and darkness, torment and despair - always battling the darkness that threatens to consume him - and sweet, innocent, underestimated Persephone. Both of them betrayed by family.
Despite a rocky start they come to realise and recognise love, how her's calms him and brings light into his world and diminishes the darkness, and how his fortifies her as she comes to perceive her own strengths. Together they find balance.
I cheered as they fought family for each other to bring about their HEA.
A fantastically dark and gripping prequel to the Guardians of Hades series.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I felt saddened and angry for them both - Hades, living in a world of death and darkness, torment and despair - always battling the darkness that threatens to consume him - and sweet, innocent, underestimated Persephone. Both of them betrayed by family.
Despite a rocky start they come to realise and recognise love, how her's calms him and brings light into his world and diminishes the darkness, and how his fortifies her as she comes to perceive her own strengths. Together they find balance.
I cheered as they fought family for each other to bring about their HEA.
A fantastically dark and gripping prequel to the Guardians of Hades series.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 6, 2023
why did it have to be so excruciatingly long?? it was constantly “Hades growled” and “golly My Darkness Is Takin Over!!!” and “Persphone’s petal tinglin” and overall nothing else really happened in this book. for the first 70% Persephone was thinking about how much she wanted to jump Hades’ bones but??? didnt???? because no one knows??? and then finally he growled for the 200th time and she snapped and it was on for the petal at last
it was so uneven. Hades was a monster with faeish features and fangs and talons and pointy ears. but then he was just your regular hot guy??? he was a rage monster but then a huge softie?? killing villages one second but distributing food the next?? and it was just switching between the two, no in between whatsever. Persephone’s petal was all it took
and speakinag of persephone- girl you were kidnapped??? stripped of your powers??? starved for months??? SHOW SOME SPINE
agh. i guess it’s 1,5 stars but rounding up because it’s hades and persephone and i made it to the end somehow. but at what cost…….
it was so uneven. Hades was a monster with faeish features and fangs and talons and pointy ears. but then he was just your regular hot guy??? he was a rage monster but then a huge softie?? killing villages one second but distributing food the next?? and it was just switching between the two, no in between whatsever. Persephone’s petal was all it took
and speakinag of persephone- girl you were kidnapped??? stripped of your powers??? starved for months??? SHOW SOME SPINE
agh. i guess it’s 1,5 stars but rounding up because it’s hades and persephone and i made it to the end somehow. but at what cost…….
January 31, 2023
When Hades, the God of the Underworld is out trying to calm his raging heart. He comes a cross a paradise and a woman who stills his black heart. A sweet goddess who just wants a life of her own and a man who will love only her. When Persephone, a sweet goddess who just wants a life of her own and to be out of her mother's shadow and not to marry the god her mother picked out for her. She meets Hades and her life changes as he abducts her and hides her in the Underworld. Where she fights and figures out that Hades is more then the devil that they make him out to be. Will the love they are forming be able to keep them together or will the darkness and a mother's manipulation keep them apart.
Hades and Persephone have always been characters that I feel have been underrated in story telling. Hades is a dark man who only knows the depths of hell but underneath that there is a man that is looking for love that he can have as his own. He is sexy and when he can he can be sweet and kind, Persephone is lightness and she is sweet and kind but there is a dark side to her that is just waiting to be woken up. They go together they are the both sides of the same coin. They bring out the best in each other and Hades will burn down the world for her.
This is a really good retelling of Hades and Persephone story. The author takes them on with a great twist as an enemies to lovers romance. The characters are well written and complex and we really get to see the characters behind the iconic god and goddess. The author takes us on such a ride there is so much emotion that come from the two main characters. You will love them and there are moments you will want to slap Hades or hug both of them. If you want a book where there is no real hero but a villain that will burn down the world to save his love. This is the book for you, check it out .
Hades and Persephone have always been characters that I feel have been underrated in story telling. Hades is a dark man who only knows the depths of hell but underneath that there is a man that is looking for love that he can have as his own. He is sexy and when he can he can be sweet and kind, Persephone is lightness and she is sweet and kind but there is a dark side to her that is just waiting to be woken up. They go together they are the both sides of the same coin. They bring out the best in each other and Hades will burn down the world for her.
This is a really good retelling of Hades and Persephone story. The author takes them on with a great twist as an enemies to lovers romance. The characters are well written and complex and we really get to see the characters behind the iconic god and goddess. The author takes us on such a ride there is so much emotion that come from the two main characters. You will love them and there are moments you will want to slap Hades or hug both of them. If you want a book where there is no real hero but a villain that will burn down the world to save his love. This is the book for you, check it out .
January 31, 2023
We all have heard or read Greek Mythology, we were told how Hades kidnapped Persephone. I absolutely love any Ficition or Non Fiction stories that touch on the love story of Queen Persephone and Hades.
When I heard Heaton was doing an entire series on Hades and P's kids I was thrilled. Each nine previous stories were amazing. Book ten Queen of The Underworld the pre-quel is my favorite in this series.
Heaton gives us a brilliant storyline set in a timeless setting. I read this story in a few hours, I could not put it down once I started. I love how she made Hades look dark, dangerous and beautiful. Persephone is beautiful and sees beyond Hades darkness. Their love story is heartbreaking and amazingly beautiful. This is now my favorite story written by Heaton. I feel she went darker with this story but thats what makes Queen of the Underworld one of her best writings to date in my opinion. I would suggest reading this book and series. Happy Reading 📚
When I heard Heaton was doing an entire series on Hades and P's kids I was thrilled. Each nine previous stories were amazing. Book ten Queen of The Underworld the pre-quel is my favorite in this series.
Heaton gives us a brilliant storyline set in a timeless setting. I read this story in a few hours, I could not put it down once I started. I love how she made Hades look dark, dangerous and beautiful. Persephone is beautiful and sees beyond Hades darkness. Their love story is heartbreaking and amazingly beautiful. This is now my favorite story written by Heaton. I feel she went darker with this story but thats what makes Queen of the Underworld one of her best writings to date in my opinion. I would suggest reading this book and series. Happy Reading 📚
February 1, 2023
I was given an ARC copy for an honest review. I was very much looking forward to reading about Hades and Persephone's romance and it did not disappoint! I love a good underdog story, and this one made me laugh and cry. At first it’s hard to imagine how these two have anything in common, but once their past is revealed you can’t imagine them being with anyone else. If you read the Guardians of Hades series (and you should! ;) ) you catch glimpses that Hades has another side to him, and not the monster others see him as being. I am very glad that we finally get to see his point of view. Persephone makes him want to be a better God, and honestly finding someone who makes you want to change for the better is everything. With Hades by her side, Persephone is able to become the person others never thought she could be. This is definitely worth the read along with the whole Guardians of Hades series!
January 29, 2023
As soon as I heard that the author Felicity Heaton was writing a prequel to the Guardians of Hades series I knew I wanted to read it. Especially as it's based on how Hades and Persephone met, we've met them a few times throughout the series, and of course, we know the tale of the two but it was amazing to get to read the author's version of how they met.
I really enjoyed getting to explore where Hades lived in the Underworld and meeting one or two characters from down there. I loved Persephone too, whilst she seems sweet and innocent, she is brave. Especially when it comes to standing up to the dark and angry Hades. But light and darkness call to each other, and that's exactly what happens with this pair.
Really enjoyed this prequel and can't wait to read more books by the author in the future.
I really enjoyed getting to explore where Hades lived in the Underworld and meeting one or two characters from down there. I loved Persephone too, whilst she seems sweet and innocent, she is brave. Especially when it comes to standing up to the dark and angry Hades. But light and darkness call to each other, and that's exactly what happens with this pair.
Really enjoyed this prequel and can't wait to read more books by the author in the future.
February 1, 2023
Hades is the God King of the Underworld and he is struggling with his inner darkness. Anytime he gets angry his temper gets out of control. He knows it ,but doesn't know how to stop.
Persephone is a minor Goddess who is ruled by her overbearing mother. She has found a place on the edge of the world where she can be herself.
This is an action packed paranormal romance with fabulous characters. There are some emotional and some very scary scenes for them to face. Our author certainly knows how to make us love even the most monstrous male. Our heroine is a lot stronger than she thinks. Can anyone survive his darkness when others interfere?
Very exciting reading. Because I have read this series I knew the outcome but that didn't stop me from be surprised or hinder my enjoyment in any way.
I loved it.
Persephone is a minor Goddess who is ruled by her overbearing mother. She has found a place on the edge of the world where she can be herself.
This is an action packed paranormal romance with fabulous characters. There are some emotional and some very scary scenes for them to face. Our author certainly knows how to make us love even the most monstrous male. Our heroine is a lot stronger than she thinks. Can anyone survive his darkness when others interfere?
Very exciting reading. Because I have read this series I knew the outcome but that didn't stop me from be surprised or hinder my enjoyment in any way.
I loved it.
February 4, 2023
Another great read by Felicity .. With such vivid imagery and detail in the storyline you can picture each and every word through the pages. . She pens her characters with depth and definition but I always had to wander how 2 such different people ever conquered each others hearts . Like chalk and cheese , we see how these characters build and their love grows . Chemistry between the two is igniting !!
Hades and Persophone are darkness and light . Hades awakens a part of her she never knew existed .. Persophone realises more than meets the eye . We see how this couple met - meet . The struggles and uncertainty .
Can be read as a stand-alone ..
If your like your men hot n fiery and your female characters strong this read I’d for you . Filled with Greek mythology it’s a read you won’t be disappointed in :)
Hades and Persophone are darkness and light . Hades awakens a part of her she never knew existed .. Persophone realises more than meets the eye . We see how this couple met - meet . The struggles and uncertainty .
Can be read as a stand-alone ..
If your like your men hot n fiery and your female characters strong this read I’d for you . Filled with Greek mythology it’s a read you won’t be disappointed in :)
February 6, 2023
Everyone loves a bad boy and they don't come much badder than Hades, dark shadows take control, he broods, he stamps, he rules the Underworld with a black iron fist. No one dares approach or take him to task, at least not until he met his match. Persephone, a soft and gentle soul, who would believe her a perfect match to Hades? This book keeps you spellbound, not able to put it down until you have read every line, every page. Once i started i couldn't put it down, i had to know what happens next. Did she soften him, did she take control of his shadows and put them in their place, you will have to read it to find out. Highly recommended. You don't have to read in sequence, but i do recommend you do so as this is the prequel to all the books that follow. Fantastic book.
January 31, 2023
Loved this story of Hades and Persephone.
When Hades first sees Persephone he knows that she is meant to be his Queen and only she can calm the darkness that overtakes him. Abducting her and taking her back to the underworld without her consent is perhaps not the way to go about it though.
Peresphone is instantly attracted to Hades but cannot believe that he would want her, so she doesn’t make it easy for him.
Can either of them open their hearts and be honest with each other and who will take the first step?
These two were definitely destined to be together. It’s true what they say “opposites attract”
When Hades first sees Persephone he knows that she is meant to be his Queen and only she can calm the darkness that overtakes him. Abducting her and taking her back to the underworld without her consent is perhaps not the way to go about it though.
Peresphone is instantly attracted to Hades but cannot believe that he would want her, so she doesn’t make it easy for him.
Can either of them open their hearts and be honest with each other and who will take the first step?
These two were definitely destined to be together. It’s true what they say “opposites attract”
February 10, 2023
endless internal monologues , such a disappointment to a great series
I loved the Guardians of Hades series, and was so looking forward to this book especially after the publication date was postponed.
I was so disappointed. 60% of the book is the same endless internal monologue, either Hades’s or Persephone. The only reason I didn’t give it a 1 star was that the last few chapters were good and the series was great. Would not start with this book if your just entering this world.
The series was great and I loved it, I highly recommend the rest of the series and reading in publication order.
I loved the Guardians of Hades series, and was so looking forward to this book especially after the publication date was postponed.
I was so disappointed. 60% of the book is the same endless internal monologue, either Hades’s or Persephone. The only reason I didn’t give it a 1 star was that the last few chapters were good and the series was great. Would not start with this book if your just entering this world.
The series was great and I loved it, I highly recommend the rest of the series and reading in publication order.
February 4, 2023
When Hades first see's Persephone, he kowns in his soul she is the only one for him. She will be his QUEEN. Hades has been alone forever and the darkness within him grows stronger. His brother all have their Queens and now he has seen Persephone. He knows he can't resist.
Persephone has grown up under the shadow of her mother. never able to please her, and looked down or or ignored by the other gods. When Hades abducts her she feel she has gone from one prison to another. Hades social skills are a bit lacking, but as time passed she see's the man he is and the struggle he endures with the darkness within him. Hades see's Persephone's as a strong beautiful woman worthy to become his Queen, now he just has to convince her and hope she will love him as much as he loves her.
THis is a brilliant read from a fantastic author.
Persephone has grown up under the shadow of her mother. never able to please her, and looked down or or ignored by the other gods. When Hades abducts her she feel she has gone from one prison to another. Hades social skills are a bit lacking, but as time passed she see's the man he is and the struggle he endures with the darkness within him. Hades see's Persephone's as a strong beautiful woman worthy to become his Queen, now he just has to convince her and hope she will love him as much as he loves her.
THis is a brilliant read from a fantastic author.
February 10, 2023
Queen of the underworld review
Felicity Heaton I love her books!
Queen of the Underworld was a great book! The relationship between Hades and Persephone Is fire! I was so drawn Into their story sometimes I wanted to slap them then hug them My heart just hurt for both of them. I love that we got to see how Hades and Persephone got together! It can be read alone but You should read all of the Guardians of Hades series they are all
5 star books to me and find out how their children found love it's a amazing series! Give this Book and series a try you won't regret it!!!
Felicity Heaton I love her books!
Queen of the Underworld was a great book! The relationship between Hades and Persephone Is fire! I was so drawn Into their story sometimes I wanted to slap them then hug them My heart just hurt for both of them. I love that we got to see how Hades and Persephone got together! It can be read alone but You should read all of the Guardians of Hades series they are all
5 star books to me and find out how their children found love it's a amazing series! Give this Book and series a try you won't regret it!!!
February 10, 2025
Could’ve been great
Average book
Under developed plot - solely focused on the romance could’ve explored more interesting aspects like her powers, his connection to the underworld etc.
Boring characters that had so much potential, her mother, nyx, arastaeus even Cerberus
Limited dialogue or real relationship building. They seem to fall very hard very easily even though it’s meant to be ‘slow burn’ there’s no angst or build up.
Spicy scenes a bit tame for my liking considering he’s the king of the underworld ..
Average book
Under developed plot - solely focused on the romance could’ve explored more interesting aspects like her powers, his connection to the underworld etc.
Boring characters that had so much potential, her mother, nyx, arastaeus even Cerberus
Limited dialogue or real relationship building. They seem to fall very hard very easily even though it’s meant to be ‘slow burn’ there’s no angst or build up.
Spicy scenes a bit tame for my liking considering he’s the king of the underworld ..
January 26, 2023
"Would it be such a bad thing?" Persephone's inner thoughts show her progression from fright to intrigue to wonder to hope as she spends more time learning about Hades and the realm she finds herself in. Her curious musings about his motives and her pleasure in his attentions are at odds with everything she thought she knew about him.
February 1, 2023
I really enjoyed reading this story. I’ve read all the Guardians books and loved them. This is the story Of Hades and Persephone. Hades is so dark in this book and you see what he is going through. Persephone is so different in this book because we see her in small parts in her children’s books. There is some action involved but it was a great prequel to the series.
February 1, 2023
Love this series! It was great reading the beginning of Hades and Persephone’s story! Love their connection and the depth of passion they have between them. They make the other one better, and I love how supportive they are of each other. It takes some work; the whole kidnapping type of scenario does put a damper on things, but there’s more at work here. Enjoyed the read!
February 4, 2023
Amazing story from start to finish! I love the authors perspective of Hades and Persephone. How their story started and how they came to be.
Hades isn't known for kindness, Persephone is in her mother's shadow. Have the Fates been planning this unlikely pairing, or was it just a coincidence? Either way, the outcome is how we know of the King & Queen of the Underworld
Hades isn't known for kindness, Persephone is in her mother's shadow. Have the Fates been planning this unlikely pairing, or was it just a coincidence? Either way, the outcome is how we know of the King & Queen of the Underworld
February 17, 2023
Persephone and Hades story is as old as time. However, this retelling was perfect. This book had me laughing, crying and swooning all over the place. Hdes was literally a monster until his queen came and smoothed out the rough edges. I absolutely lived their story which really sets the stage form the rest of the series and the epic love they shared.
June 12, 2023
Time
Hades has all th time in his world to make his love his queen. Her mother makes a mistake that she can't get out of. Hades and his queen are not to be messed with. They love each other. Zeus makes their deal up to them and how they want things. I love their journey. Good story.
Hades has all th time in his world to make his love his queen. Her mother makes a mistake that she can't get out of. Hades and his queen are not to be messed with. They love each other. Zeus makes their deal up to them and how they want things. I love their journey. Good story.
May 19, 2024
In the beginning of this book there was so much internal dialogue by the characters that I almost gave up, then they finally got out of their heads and the story enchanted me no end! I absolutely loved the story when it started happening and moving. Still wish Demeter had been punished though. Persephone and Hades were absolutely adorable together.
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