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Hero Worship
Hercules always wanted the innocent young Daisy, but he could never have her. She was perfect in every way. He was born of violence and shadows. His birthright is sacrifice. Never love.
Fighting for his country left him battered and broken. He built a successful business in technological security. Wealth. Fame. None of it makes him worthy of her.
Then she's caught in the sights of dangerous men.
He has to protect her. Except the forces that target her are the very ones that threaten his past. Can he save her without exposing his own desperate longing? Or will his secrets tear them both apart?
Fighting for his country left him battered and broken. He built a successful business in technological security. Wealth. Fame. None of it makes him worthy of her.
Then she's caught in the sights of dangerous men.
He has to protect her. Except the forces that target her are the very ones that threaten his past. Can he save her without exposing his own desperate longing? Or will his secrets tear them both apart?
342 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 9, 2023
55 people are currently reading
578 people want to read
About the author
Amelia Wilde
158 books3,532 followersAmelia Wilde is a USA TODAY and Amazon Top 100 bestselling author of steamy contemporary romance and loves it a little too much. She lives in Michigan with her husband and daughters. She spends most of her time typing furiously on an iPad and appreciating the natural splendor of her home state from where she likes it best: inside.
Amelia does not negotiate with targeted harassment campaigns, but she appreciates the valuable time spent thinking about her books.
Subscribe to Amelia’s private mailing list for updates, giveaways, and regular chats by heading to readerlinks.com/l/525541.
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Amelia does not negotiate with targeted harassment campaigns, but she appreciates the valuable time spent thinking about her books.
Subscribe to Amelia’s private mailing list for updates, giveaways, and regular chats by heading to readerlinks.com/l/525541.
Follow her on Facebook at readerlinks.com/l/525539 for all the latest giveaways, announcements, and funny jokes.
Follow Amelia on Instagram for photographic goodness at readerlinks.com/l/525542!
Click the big yellow button and follow Amelia on Amazon for new release updates at readerlinks.com/l/525544.
Want to see Amelia live? Join her exclusive reader group! Consider this your personal invitation. Here’s where to go: readerlinks.com/l/525538!
Don’t forget BookBub! Follow Amelia at readerlinks.com/l/525543.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 124 reviews
September 28, 2023
When Daisy is shot at, her family sends Hercules to California to serve as her bodyguard. Upon arrival, he learns her health is declining and, after another incident, sweeps her back to New York.
Heavily laden with fantasy and mythological inspirations, Hero Worship is a character-driven story with the focus on Daisy and Hercules as well as their families.
Alternating between reality and a dream state, the storyline was, at times confusing. However, the characters kept me engaged and wanting more. All this said, although a standalone, readers will have a better understanding of the family and dynamic by having read Zeus’, Hades’, and Poseidon’s books.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Burn: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Darkness: 🖤
Heat: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Range of Emotions: 😳🥺🥵🤔😍
Ending: 💗 {HEA}
POV: 👫🏻 {Dual}
🗂 Genre: Contemporary Romantasy
✨ Tropes: Enemies-to-Lovers, Family Saga, Forbidden, Forced Proximity, Touch-Her-and-💀 (ish), Tracking/Spying, Virgin h
💋 Kinks: 🍑, Biting/Marking, Degradation (Mild), Dirty Talk, Spanking
⚠️ Warning: This steamy read will leave your panties wet and reaching for BOB.
🚩 Safety Squad: There are potentially triggering elements. If you have any hesitation, check the warnings before diving in. Otherwise, blind is best!!
📣 Type: Hero Worship is a standalone. While no other books need to be read in order to follow the story, reading prior books will enhance the experience.
🛑 Be Advised: My Goodreads shelves are … explicit in both senses. As such, they could be considered spoiler-y.
Heavily laden with fantasy and mythological inspirations, Hero Worship is a character-driven story with the focus on Daisy and Hercules as well as their families.
Alternating between reality and a dream state, the storyline was, at times confusing. However, the characters kept me engaged and wanting more. All this said, although a standalone, readers will have a better understanding of the family and dynamic by having read Zeus’, Hades’, and Poseidon’s books.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Burn: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Darkness: 🖤
Heat: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Range of Emotions: 😳🥺🥵🤔😍
Ending: 💗 {HEA}
POV: 👫🏻 {Dual}
🗂 Genre: Contemporary Romantasy
✨ Tropes: Enemies-to-Lovers, Family Saga, Forbidden, Forced Proximity, Touch-Her-and-💀 (ish), Tracking/Spying, Virgin h
💋 Kinks: 🍑, Biting/Marking, Degradation (Mild), Dirty Talk, Spanking
⚠️ Warning: This steamy read will leave your panties wet and reaching for BOB.
🚩 Safety Squad: There are potentially triggering elements. If you have any hesitation, check the warnings before diving in. Otherwise, blind is best!!
📣 Type: Hero Worship is a standalone. While no other books need to be read in order to follow the story, reading prior books will enhance the experience.
🛑 Be Advised: My Goodreads shelves are … explicit in both senses. As such, they could be considered spoiler-y.
May 9, 2023
Hero Worship marks Amelia Wilde's return to her world of modern Greek gods that she first introduced in Richer Than God, King of Shadows, and The Devil trilogies—Zeus, Hades, and Poseidon's books. While Daisy and Hercules' book can be read as a standalone, I would not recommend it because the story was confusing without context and additional background information. A recap of the story so far would have made the mystery surrounding Daisy's origins and Hercules' connection to everyone easier to understand. Nevertheless, I was mostly interested in Daisy and Hercules' complex relationship and Amelia Wilde did not disappoint because it was messy and intense. Their romance felt very dream-like at times and this matched well with the theme of the book because Daisy had her own nightmares to confront.
The story begins with Daisy attending an art gallery for her friend but it quickly turns into an assassination attempt on her life. Someone is out to kill Daisy but who? We're given context as to why Daisy has moved away from the family that she has always known and loved but she is keeping a secret from them. Enter Hercules, who Zeus took in as a teenager, and he is tasked with guarding Daisy until can find the perpetrator. Hercules was quite the interesting character because of his hot and cold reactions to Daisy. If I were to describe Hercules, he would be the “wounded hero” archetype. After receiving an injury in the military, Hercules feels lost and adrift. He eventually accepts Zeus' ask to guard Daisy as a favor even though their relationship has always been difficult. In the end, I really enjoyed this dark and steamy retelling of "Hercules" because it felt different from Amelia Wilde's more recent works.
*This ARC was generously provided by the author and publisher for an honest review*
“I don't want to always hurt her. I don't want her to only think of pain when she thinks of me.”
The story begins with Daisy attending an art gallery for her friend but it quickly turns into an assassination attempt on her life. Someone is out to kill Daisy but who? We're given context as to why Daisy has moved away from the family that she has always known and loved but she is keeping a secret from them. Enter Hercules, who Zeus took in as a teenager, and he is tasked with guarding Daisy until can find the perpetrator. Hercules was quite the interesting character because of his hot and cold reactions to Daisy. If I were to describe Hercules, he would be the “wounded hero” archetype. After receiving an injury in the military, Hercules feels lost and adrift. He eventually accepts Zeus' ask to guard Daisy as a favor even though their relationship has always been difficult. In the end, I really enjoyed this dark and steamy retelling of "Hercules" because it felt different from Amelia Wilde's more recent works.
*This ARC was generously provided by the author and publisher for an honest review*
May 7, 2023
HERO WORSHIP
Release Date: 05/09/23
Kindle Unlimited: [ ]YES [X]NO
Stand-alone: [X]YES [ ]NO
Author: Cassie Cassell
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spiciness rating: 🌶🌶️🌶/5
POV: Dual, first person
Main Characters: Daisy & Hercules
Genre: Dark Romance
Tropes: fantastic elements; Greek mythology inspo; enemies to lovers; bodyguard; heroine in danger; tortured hero
Review:
When I had to decide if I’d check this book as a standalone or not I got a little in doubt. I mean, it’s listed as a standalone, but let me tell you, if you haven’t read Zeus, Hades and Poseidon’s books, it would be better if you do first before you get into this one.
That being said, this book was a little different of what I was used to when diving into one of Amelia’s works. It’s more dramatic. The first 85% of the book are not only dark, but they being a dramatic load. Daisy’s situation was affecting all characters in the book and they seemed to be hopeless and clueless of what to do most of the time. The reader gets trapped in the nightmares of both MCs most of the book and when they are awaken, nothing much happens besides people discussing about what to do.
Besides Amelia’s writing style, my favorite part in this book was the characters rather than the plot, because of this feeling I had of nothing really happening. The family connections and the hot scenes were great. I also enjoyed the dreaming aspect, but after some time I felt like it should be solved faster.
What I enjoyed the most? The scene between Zeus and Hercules nearing the end 🥹
*** I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. ***
Release Date: 05/09/23
Kindle Unlimited: [ ]YES [X]NO
Stand-alone: [X]YES [ ]NO
Author: Cassie Cassell
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spiciness rating: 🌶🌶️🌶/5
POV: Dual, first person
Main Characters: Daisy & Hercules
Genre: Dark Romance
Tropes: fantastic elements; Greek mythology inspo; enemies to lovers; bodyguard; heroine in danger; tortured hero
Review:
When I had to decide if I’d check this book as a standalone or not I got a little in doubt. I mean, it’s listed as a standalone, but let me tell you, if you haven’t read Zeus, Hades and Poseidon’s books, it would be better if you do first before you get into this one.
That being said, this book was a little different of what I was used to when diving into one of Amelia’s works. It’s more dramatic. The first 85% of the book are not only dark, but they being a dramatic load. Daisy’s situation was affecting all characters in the book and they seemed to be hopeless and clueless of what to do most of the time. The reader gets trapped in the nightmares of both MCs most of the book and when they are awaken, nothing much happens besides people discussing about what to do.
Besides Amelia’s writing style, my favorite part in this book was the characters rather than the plot, because of this feeling I had of nothing really happening. The family connections and the hot scenes were great. I also enjoyed the dreaming aspect, but after some time I felt like it should be solved faster.
What I enjoyed the most? The scene between Zeus and Hercules nearing the end 🥹
*** I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. ***
May 10, 2023
Kindle Unlimited: No
Stand-alone: Yes**
Author: Ameilia Wilde
Rating: 5/5 ⭐️
Spiciness Rating: 4/5 🌶
POV: First Person Dual Perspective
Main Couple: Hercules and Daisy
Trope(s): Dark Suspense, Forced Proximity, Greek Mythology Retelling
“What do you want me to do?”
“Anything.”
“Where’s the line? You have to fucking tell me. Where’s the line, Daisy?”
“There isn’t one.”
One of his hands moves over my hair. “Tell me not to hurt you.”
I'm going to lose it. “Hercules. Please.”
He kisses me hard enough to bruise.
It hurts.
Thank God.
Amelia has taken us back to her tumultuous world of Hades, Zeus, and Poseidon, their incredible stories based loosely on Greek Mythology, as we delve into the next generation. Personally, I would recommend reading the stories in order to fully appreciate, understand, and follow along. This world Amelia has created is filled with tragedy, has dark themes, and heartbreak. But, with each story a stitch is made in the fabric of this family. In Hero Worship we really get the feel of how much this family has healed from their tragic beginnings. How they have found love and their way back to one another. Amelia also leaves us tidbits of what is to come. This book has its foot on the pedal from the start and we are taken on the ride of our life. And, although it is dark themed, Amelia weaves levity through the family dynamic. Loved this so much. I took a moment once I was done to just soak up the words, the feelings, the love, the smoking heat that was Hercules and Daisy. Gah, now I just want more.
Hercules and Daisy met as teenagers, he came to her rescue and then she followed suit. Saving Hercules brought him into her family's fold. And, he has been doing a bang up job of fighting the connection ever since.
Daisy is now living in California, far from her family in New York, painting and hiding. She shares her father, Hades, sensitivity to the light.
As she is leaving an Art Event for a friend she becomes a target. Her security is able to secure her, but her father and uncles are not satisfied. So, they call in reinforcements.
Hercules is back in New York after his honorable discharge from Army’s Green Berets when a mission goes wrong leaving him injuries not befitting of a soldier. Now working independently as a security consultant. When Zeus, his not father, calls him to take the job of protecting Daisy, he fights his natural instinct to say no. He has spent years holding himself back from them.
Having him in her space leaves Daisy vulnerable to Hercules discovering all her secrets. But, Hercules doesn’t push, knowing eventually the answers will come.
Intensity equals pain for Daisy, it always has. When she begs Hercules to exchange the pain- his methods might be unconventional, but they are a balm to her over sensitized mind.
But, when the threat on her life intensifies, Hercules makes the executive decision to bring her back to New York and her family.
Now as a group they ban together with one goal in mind- saving Daisy.
Stand-alone: Yes**
Author: Ameilia Wilde
Rating: 5/5 ⭐️
Spiciness Rating: 4/5 🌶
POV: First Person Dual Perspective
Main Couple: Hercules and Daisy
Trope(s): Dark Suspense, Forced Proximity, Greek Mythology Retelling
“What do you want me to do?”
“Anything.”
“Where’s the line? You have to fucking tell me. Where’s the line, Daisy?”
“There isn’t one.”
One of his hands moves over my hair. “Tell me not to hurt you.”
I'm going to lose it. “Hercules. Please.”
He kisses me hard enough to bruise.
It hurts.
Thank God.
Amelia has taken us back to her tumultuous world of Hades, Zeus, and Poseidon, their incredible stories based loosely on Greek Mythology, as we delve into the next generation. Personally, I would recommend reading the stories in order to fully appreciate, understand, and follow along. This world Amelia has created is filled with tragedy, has dark themes, and heartbreak. But, with each story a stitch is made in the fabric of this family. In Hero Worship we really get the feel of how much this family has healed from their tragic beginnings. How they have found love and their way back to one another. Amelia also leaves us tidbits of what is to come. This book has its foot on the pedal from the start and we are taken on the ride of our life. And, although it is dark themed, Amelia weaves levity through the family dynamic. Loved this so much. I took a moment once I was done to just soak up the words, the feelings, the love, the smoking heat that was Hercules and Daisy. Gah, now I just want more.
Hercules and Daisy met as teenagers, he came to her rescue and then she followed suit. Saving Hercules brought him into her family's fold. And, he has been doing a bang up job of fighting the connection ever since.
Daisy is now living in California, far from her family in New York, painting and hiding. She shares her father, Hades, sensitivity to the light.
As she is leaving an Art Event for a friend she becomes a target. Her security is able to secure her, but her father and uncles are not satisfied. So, they call in reinforcements.
Hercules is back in New York after his honorable discharge from Army’s Green Berets when a mission goes wrong leaving him injuries not befitting of a soldier. Now working independently as a security consultant. When Zeus, his not father, calls him to take the job of protecting Daisy, he fights his natural instinct to say no. He has spent years holding himself back from them.
Having him in her space leaves Daisy vulnerable to Hercules discovering all her secrets. But, Hercules doesn’t push, knowing eventually the answers will come.
Intensity equals pain for Daisy, it always has. When she begs Hercules to exchange the pain- his methods might be unconventional, but they are a balm to her over sensitized mind.
But, when the threat on her life intensifies, Hercules makes the executive decision to bring her back to New York and her family.
Now as a group they ban together with one goal in mind- saving Daisy.
May 16, 2023
I really tried to like this one considering how much I have enjoyed Amelia Wilde’s books but this is just not for me :< I had a hard time getting into the story, everything somehow confuses me and the plot isn’t really giving. For the most part I actually don’t know what was going on.
The characters also fell flat, I found the FMC, Daisy, to be interesting tho since she had this realistic disability that has something to do with light and seizures however, I just didn’t like her as much as I hoped to (probably because of the very confusing plot). I don’t get also the logic behind using sex as a countermeasure for survival.
Thank you to VALENTINE PR for providing me an ARC
The characters also fell flat, I found the FMC, Daisy, to be interesting tho since she had this realistic disability that has something to do with light and seizures however, I just didn’t like her as much as I hoped to (probably because of the very confusing plot). I don’t get also the logic behind using sex as a countermeasure for survival.
Thank you to VALENTINE PR for providing me an ARC
May 10, 2023
Sometimes the end isn't the scariest part...
Daisy is the daughter of Hades and Persephone... Hercules the son of Zeus and Bridget. When one has went to war and the other has fled the family to try and save them.
When the past comes back to haunt them. Hercules is dispatched to sort out the threat and keep Daisy safe. This job is anything but routine. Daisy has been keeping a shattering secret that now Hercules must save her from and the only way to do it is give into the temptation.
Things come full circle when after the threat hits to close to Daisy that the only alternative is to take her the one place she doesn't want to be... Home.
Can Hercules find a way to give Daisy the life she had always wanted? Can Daisy save Hercules from himself? How many touching brother moments can we get from the first generation?
I loved everything about this book except it wasn't longer. I will never be ready to close the book on any of these characters.
Daisy is the daughter of Hades and Persephone... Hercules the son of Zeus and Bridget. When one has went to war and the other has fled the family to try and save them.
When the past comes back to haunt them. Hercules is dispatched to sort out the threat and keep Daisy safe. This job is anything but routine. Daisy has been keeping a shattering secret that now Hercules must save her from and the only way to do it is give into the temptation.
Things come full circle when after the threat hits to close to Daisy that the only alternative is to take her the one place she doesn't want to be... Home.
Can Hercules find a way to give Daisy the life she had always wanted? Can Daisy save Hercules from himself? How many touching brother moments can we get from the first generation?
I loved everything about this book except it wasn't longer. I will never be ready to close the book on any of these characters.
May 7, 2023
If you’re a fan of fantasy romance, this retelling of a piece of Greek mythology should be right up your alley. For me, it was a bit confusing, and I never did figure out how Daisy correlated to an actual daughter of the god, Hades. Creative liberties, I guess?
But creative aptly describes this romance. Daisy has a physical disability she inherited from her father, and light bothers her more and more, causing debilitating headaches and other physical complications. It's bad enough that she has moved away from her family in order to hide her affliction. But when someone takes a shot at her, Hades and his brothers send Hercules out to LA to watch over Daisy.
Hercules is the quintessential wounded hero, both body and soul. But it's not long before he admits that his antagonism towards Daisy is masking deeper feelings, and he'll do anything to keep her safe. If it came down to it, he would die for her.
With tons of heat and a whole lot of heart, this romantic retelling makes for an entertaining time. Even gods and their offspring can learn new things and find unconditional love, and their story makes for a fascinating, enthralling read.
But creative aptly describes this romance. Daisy has a physical disability she inherited from her father, and light bothers her more and more, causing debilitating headaches and other physical complications. It's bad enough that she has moved away from her family in order to hide her affliction. But when someone takes a shot at her, Hades and his brothers send Hercules out to LA to watch over Daisy.
Hercules is the quintessential wounded hero, both body and soul. But it's not long before he admits that his antagonism towards Daisy is masking deeper feelings, and he'll do anything to keep her safe. If it came down to it, he would die for her.
With tons of heat and a whole lot of heart, this romantic retelling makes for an entertaining time. Even gods and their offspring can learn new things and find unconditional love, and their story makes for a fascinating, enthralling read.
May 10, 2023
I absolutely adored Hero Worship by Amelia Wilde who gave us Daisy and Hercules who have never given each other the time of day back home but when Daisy moves away from her overbearing family while she learns to manage her genetic condition her family learn that she's in danger and much to Hercules demise he does as is asked and keeps Daisy safe and gives her his protection and his heart
I loved the connection between the two and the fact their nightmares are blending together but can he keep them safe from what's haunting her.
A steamy and sexy dark romance with a great and intriguing storyline. This is definitely another must read book by Amelia.
I loved the connection between the two and the fact their nightmares are blending together but can he keep them safe from what's haunting her.
A steamy and sexy dark romance with a great and intriguing storyline. This is definitely another must read book by Amelia.
May 13, 2023
Enjoyable and original story and very easy to get through
May 7, 2023
Hero Worship by Amelia Wilde is the story of Hercules and Daisy. Daisy has a dangerous heath issue that she has started to struggle with. But, she tries to keep face with her family and not worry them. But then a target is put on her and she is put in real danger. Daisy's family calls in a bodyguard to keep her safe. That body guard is Hercules which she has a love/hate relationship with. Hercules is all set to protect her and this starts to open up a chance for them to look closer into their feelings. Enjoyed this book and can't wait to read more from this author.
May 17, 2023
There is something missing from the synopsis of this book. Or perhaps a missing author's note that should have been inserted before reading this book. A very important note, that may have changed my review by a star at least. So if you haven't read this book, and you want to, let me give you that very important bit of information that I wish was disclosed to me; despite it saying this is a standalone, this is a spin-off from Amelia Wilde's other series', Hades, Zeus, and Poseidon. There are 11 books throughout those three series'.
Hero Worship is not written for a reader who stumbles upon it.
Hero Worship is written for the reader who has read the 11 other books.
If I had known that, I wouldn't have read it.
To be fair - it wasn't terrible. Amelia Wilde has talent as a writer. From a purely technical standpoint, it worked. Despite not understanding most of what was going on, I didn't hate it so much that I gave up on it. I actually finished it in two days - longer than it would normally take me to get through a book like this, but it kept some of my interest. I thought there were interesting and unique hints to the original mythology while keeping it modern and fresh. The characters were also unique, despite being based around known mythology characters.
It was just ... chaotic.
First of all, nothing, and I mean nothing is explained. I assume the information I needed, which probably would have increased my star rating to three stars, was in her other series'. The whole setting, the dynamics, terminology ... nothing was explained.
That is a big problem.
Hero Worship is either meant to be a standalone or the start of a new series. Amelia Wilde needed to include the information learned from the other books in this book. It's a start of a new series. It doesn't matter if previous readers are aware of the information and dynamics already - new readers are not. A spinoff book/series needs to provide that information. Authors need to write in service to a brand-new reader. I'm sure her fans will enjoy that it just jumps into the story, but her fans will read her books no matter what. They truly don't care if there is a paragraph here and there explaining things. Hell, sometimes it's appreciated as a little refresher. As a new reader of Amelia Wilde, I was left not wanting to continue the series, and not wanting to explore her other work.
Not because I have read things out of order.
It's not the first time I've read a spin-off series first before discovering there was a series before it.
In those other books, I not only loved the spin-off series on its own, but it made me want to go and purchase series the other series. That's not the case here.
The characters were interesting. Both the main characters and side characters. I enjoyed that the personalities each character had were not exactly mirrored after most retellings. After all, in this genre, let's be honest by saying most Hades', Persephone's, Zeus' etc ... are almost always the same. The only one I have read to date that stands apart is Lore Olympus, and now this one. As for the romance part of it, I just didn't feel the chemistry between Daisy and Hercules. It felt forced. It happens too quickly and felt so out of the blue, it felt like whiplash.
Sadly, I was not a fan of Hero Worship. Obviously, if you are a reader of Amelia Wilde's work, and have read the Hades, Zeus, and Poseidon series', you will enjoy Hero Worship. If the synopsis drew you in, like it did me, read her other work before committing, because in order to understand most of this book, you will need to.
Hero Worship is not written for a reader who stumbles upon it.
Hero Worship is written for the reader who has read the 11 other books.
If I had known that, I wouldn't have read it.
To be fair - it wasn't terrible. Amelia Wilde has talent as a writer. From a purely technical standpoint, it worked. Despite not understanding most of what was going on, I didn't hate it so much that I gave up on it. I actually finished it in two days - longer than it would normally take me to get through a book like this, but it kept some of my interest. I thought there were interesting and unique hints to the original mythology while keeping it modern and fresh. The characters were also unique, despite being based around known mythology characters.
It was just ... chaotic.
First of all, nothing, and I mean nothing is explained. I assume the information I needed, which probably would have increased my star rating to three stars, was in her other series'. The whole setting, the dynamics, terminology ... nothing was explained.
That is a big problem.
Hero Worship is either meant to be a standalone or the start of a new series. Amelia Wilde needed to include the information learned from the other books in this book. It's a start of a new series. It doesn't matter if previous readers are aware of the information and dynamics already - new readers are not. A spinoff book/series needs to provide that information. Authors need to write in service to a brand-new reader. I'm sure her fans will enjoy that it just jumps into the story, but her fans will read her books no matter what. They truly don't care if there is a paragraph here and there explaining things. Hell, sometimes it's appreciated as a little refresher. As a new reader of Amelia Wilde, I was left not wanting to continue the series, and not wanting to explore her other work.
Not because I have read things out of order.
It's not the first time I've read a spin-off series first before discovering there was a series before it.
In those other books, I not only loved the spin-off series on its own, but it made me want to go and purchase series the other series. That's not the case here.
The characters were interesting. Both the main characters and side characters. I enjoyed that the personalities each character had were not exactly mirrored after most retellings. After all, in this genre, let's be honest by saying most Hades', Persephone's, Zeus' etc ... are almost always the same. The only one I have read to date that stands apart is Lore Olympus, and now this one. As for the romance part of it, I just didn't feel the chemistry between Daisy and Hercules. It felt forced. It happens too quickly and felt so out of the blue, it felt like whiplash.
Sadly, I was not a fan of Hero Worship. Obviously, if you are a reader of Amelia Wilde's work, and have read the Hades, Zeus, and Poseidon series', you will enjoy Hero Worship. If the synopsis drew you in, like it did me, read her other work before committing, because in order to understand most of this book, you will need to.
May 16, 2023
4.25 stars
I have been eagerly waiting for this book since it was first a rumor that the kids would have their stories told. How could I not be excited when Hades, Zeus, and Poisedon were going to be involved? However, with that being said, I am a little conflicted about this book. At this point, I always prepare myself that any books that she writes will be a trilogy. I hate it, (because her cliffhangers are brutal) but at the same time, I love it because I get that much more story. With this book, I felt like something was missing. Had I not been an avid fan, I am not sure that I would have enjoyed this book as much. Even though it is a standalone, a lot of the great moments wouldn't have had the same impact on someone that hadn't been as vested as I.
That being said, I still enjoyed this book. Loved seeing some of my favorite characters and going back to this world. In many ways, these characters feel like family and like coming home.
I have been eagerly waiting for this book since it was first a rumor that the kids would have their stories told. How could I not be excited when Hades, Zeus, and Poisedon were going to be involved? However, with that being said, I am a little conflicted about this book. At this point, I always prepare myself that any books that she writes will be a trilogy. I hate it, (because her cliffhangers are brutal) but at the same time, I love it because I get that much more story. With this book, I felt like something was missing. Had I not been an avid fan, I am not sure that I would have enjoyed this book as much. Even though it is a standalone, a lot of the great moments wouldn't have had the same impact on someone that hadn't been as vested as I.
That being said, I still enjoyed this book. Loved seeing some of my favorite characters and going back to this world. In many ways, these characters feel like family and like coming home.
May 19, 2023
Hercules and Daisys story was perfect. These two haven’t seen each other since there young but now they are both hiding her demons but there’s nothing he won’t do to show Daisy what she thinks is dark in a nothing compared to him and this time he’s going to make sure he keeps her even though he knows he shouldn’t
May 9, 2023
I am in awe with this author’s ability to enthrall me with her words, all the swoon-worthy heroes and loveable heroines. Hercules and Daisy’s story was all things perfect and had my undivided attention instantaneously. When I was reading it I was spellbound and when I wasn’t reading it I was still thinking about it. It’s just one of those stories that deserves all the stars. Her retelling of the demigod, Hercules with Hades’s daughter is amazing. There is so much emotions on the pages of this book. The character development was on point, their chemistry was fire and it still had a phenomenal story to go with their heat. And I’ve never been a fan of the endearment, baby, but this author has made me love it. Coming from Hercules, baby, is a term I can only imagine coming from a god.
May 8, 2023
I loved this! It's about Hercules and Daisy, and once I started reading I found their connections to Zeus and Hades from the Hades and Persephone books! And for some reason, I thought this would be more than one book, but they get their happy ending here, and you don't need to read the other series to understand a single thing.
Daisy needs a lot of protecting, and she's got secrets. Hercules is reluctant at first, but it's just because he likes her so much and doesn't think he's good enough. The dreams element to this book was super interesting, and the way they fight it back in the beginning is hotttt. And then the family dynamic with everyone was so sweet and caring, and at one point while reading I cried. Such a good read.
Daisy needs a lot of protecting, and she's got secrets. Hercules is reluctant at first, but it's just because he likes her so much and doesn't think he's good enough. The dreams element to this book was super interesting, and the way they fight it back in the beginning is hotttt. And then the family dynamic with everyone was so sweet and caring, and at one point while reading I cried. Such a good read.
May 9, 2023
I loved being back in the mythology world with Daisy and Hercules. Hercules was so protective of Daisy when she was under threat. And Daisy tried to be so strong but she was vulnerable due to her condition. The interactions with Hades, Zeus and Poseidon were brilliant and one of my favorite parts of the book! And the steamy scenes almost melted my kindle. If you enjoy mythology retelling- you need to pick up this whole interconnected series!
May 10, 2023
The plot twist and context is different than Ms. Wilde's previous stories, but once the storyline gels, it all makes perfect sense, I just needed to trust her process! Herc and Daisy are perfect! Enjoyed this story. It can be read as a standalone, but is easier to follow if the series are read first. Definitely recommend this book and this author.
May 10, 2023
Fabulous. So. Gooood!
Hercules. Hercules. Hercules. Yes please.
He is Daisy’s bodyguard and sooooo much commences. As I’m sure you imagine.
I love being back in the Greek God world of Wilde and it does not disappoint!
Highly recommend
Hercules. Hercules. Hercules. Yes please.
He is Daisy’s bodyguard and sooooo much commences. As I’m sure you imagine.
I love being back in the Greek God world of Wilde and it does not disappoint!
Highly recommend
May 9, 2023
Oh my goodness!!! This book was so good! Hercules and Daisy were perfect. He was carrying so much on his shoulders, and he was trying to save her. This book had me by the throat. I never saw what was coming. Every character had their part to play. I loved being back in the realm of the characters. I was holding my breath in the end, and loved the way the author brought this story to light. I can’t wait for more!
June 9, 2023
4 stars
The only thing that I wasn't excited about was the nghtmare scenes. Those didn't make sense and I was so confused whenever that happenned. Have this magic-y feelings about it and I'm not a magic person (lol). I don't even like harry potter. Overall a nice story. Would read Twin Flame (Apollo & Artemis)
The only thing that I wasn't excited about was the nghtmare scenes. Those didn't make sense and I was so confused whenever that happenned. Have this magic-y feelings about it and I'm not a magic person (lol). I don't even like harry potter. Overall a nice story. Would read Twin Flame (Apollo & Artemis)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 23, 2025
I’ll be honest, I have not idea what was going on in this book pretty much the whole time. Which is super disappointing seeing as I’m somewhat of a big fan of Amelia Wilde’s. I’ve read quite a few of her books, most of which recently have been extremely hit of miss for me. I’m really disappointed that this one turned out the way it did because I really enjoyed the original series that came before this book. But this was just a hot mess. I’ve always been a huge fan of mythology retellings, so initially I was excited to read this but other than the names of some of the characters, it wasn’t anything close to, or loosely related to the original myths. It’s like she was trying to be clever with her imagery and the storyline but it just made no sense to me at all. I spent the whole time in a permanent state of confusion. Having finished the book now, not only could I not tell you what it was about, but I think the plot for Inception made more sense, and that’s saying something. If you want to be confused, deffs give this one a go, maybe it’ll make more sense to someone else, who knows. Check your trigger warnings and happy reading!
April 12, 2025
Our hero, Hercules, answers his phone and ends up talking to all Ancient Greek gods. Everyone is named Poseidon, Zeus, Hades, Ares, Artemis, Apollo, etc. The conversation between them was annoying, exaggerated and cringe. Like almost the entire book.
May 25, 2023
I received this as an arc from Valentine PR — here is my honest review.
This is the second book I’ve read from Amelia Wilde and omg this is so good!! Her writing is so easy to read, it’s doesn’t even feel like I’m reading. I loved the premise of this book & the character development!
This is a dark romance, Greek mythology book that follows our main characters Hercules and Daisy. ENEMIES TO LOVERS, which is course of my favorite trope! This is part of a series but can be read as a standalone.
This is the second book I’ve read from Amelia Wilde and omg this is so good!! Her writing is so easy to read, it’s doesn’t even feel like I’m reading. I loved the premise of this book & the character development!
This is a dark romance, Greek mythology book that follows our main characters Hercules and Daisy. ENEMIES TO LOVERS, which is course of my favorite trope! This is part of a series but can be read as a standalone.
May 26, 2023
Literally will read this series for the rest of my life.
I don’t know how Amelia does it but this book universe she’s written is so captivating and rich, you just wanna pull all the secrets and nuances from this family.
I adore Hercules and Daisy. Not as spicy as some of Amelia’s previous works but that doesn’t leave me any less satisfied with their progression and growth. Loved seeing the family entwined throughout this story!
I don’t know how Amelia does it but this book universe she’s written is so captivating and rich, you just wanna pull all the secrets and nuances from this family.
I adore Hercules and Daisy. Not as spicy as some of Amelia’s previous works but that doesn’t leave me any less satisfied with their progression and growth. Loved seeing the family entwined throughout this story!
May 13, 2023
I’ve been waiting on this book ever since we got a glimpse of Hercules and Daisy in the epilogue of The Pirate and Amelia Wilde hasn’t disappointed in this opening book featuring the next generation. Continuing her fantasy universe based on modern day Greek gods, Hercules and Daisy meet up again after an attempt on Daisy’s life leads him to California to act as her bodyguard at the behest of her family. Artist Daisy has been keeping a secret from her overprotective family, the condition she shares with her father is worsening and the move was her attempt to hide it and the nightmares that torment. She’s known Hercules since they were children when they instantly connected but Hercules doesn’t feel he’s good enough for her until her life is threatened and he realises just how much she means to him Their relationship is dark and intense with a steam factor that is off the charts and I loved the storyline of the escalating danger towards to Daisy but for me the highlight of Hero Worship was the family relationships with the love they had for each other. I knew they’d be overprotective but who would’ve thought Hades, Zeus and Poseidon would be such openly loving fathers and this element added a touch of lightness to what was a darker read. I can’t wait to read more from this world.
The one thing I would say about Hero Worship is that, while it can be read as a standalone I’d recommend reading the previous books, Hades and Persephone, Owned by the Billionaire and The Pirate first so you know who all the characters are and their various connections, plus they’re great books so why would you not want to read them.
The one thing I would say about Hero Worship is that, while it can be read as a standalone I’d recommend reading the previous books, Hades and Persephone, Owned by the Billionaire and The Pirate first so you know who all the characters are and their various connections, plus they’re great books so why would you not want to read them.
Read
May 21, 2023DNF
Story felt flat. No connection whatsoever with the MCs.
Story felt flat. No connection whatsoever with the MCs.
May 8, 2023
I can honestly say that I have never read anything like Hero Worship before. Though it is a standalone, I think that if you haven’t read the Zeus and Hades stories before this one you will be a bit confused.
That being said, this book had a lot of great things going for it, starting with Amelia Wilde’s writing. The next great thing is the characters - Zeus, Hades and Poseidon had such an amazing dynamic together and their antics had me feeling all the things, from laughing hysterically to clutching at my chest with emotion. I love a strong brotherhood, and these guys definitely have it - along with the rest of the family!
And then of course there’s the story. Hercules is tasked by Zeus to protect Daisy, Hades’ daughter, after she is the target of an assassination attempt. It doesn’t take long before Hercules realizes there is something bigger at play and that Daisy’s life is in danger in more ways than one.
My favorite part of this story is definitely the family dynamic. When Herc realizes the danger that Daisy is in he immediately takes her home to her family - and that is when the story really picked up for me. Seeing the love that the entire family had for Daisy was so sweet, and even though Hercules is trying hard to NOT be a member of the family, they embrace him and love him anyway.
Though the main story was between Daisy and Hercules, the smaller stories involving Hercules and Zeus, Daisy and Hades and just the entire family as a whole really made the book special for me!
READ IF YOU LIKE:
- Contemporary mythology retelling
- Enemies to lovers
- Heroine in danger
- Bodyguard romance
- Tortured hero
I received an ARC copy courtesy of Valentine PR & Amelia Wilde for my honest review.
That being said, this book had a lot of great things going for it, starting with Amelia Wilde’s writing. The next great thing is the characters - Zeus, Hades and Poseidon had such an amazing dynamic together and their antics had me feeling all the things, from laughing hysterically to clutching at my chest with emotion. I love a strong brotherhood, and these guys definitely have it - along with the rest of the family!
And then of course there’s the story. Hercules is tasked by Zeus to protect Daisy, Hades’ daughter, after she is the target of an assassination attempt. It doesn’t take long before Hercules realizes there is something bigger at play and that Daisy’s life is in danger in more ways than one.
My favorite part of this story is definitely the family dynamic. When Herc realizes the danger that Daisy is in he immediately takes her home to her family - and that is when the story really picked up for me. Seeing the love that the entire family had for Daisy was so sweet, and even though Hercules is trying hard to NOT be a member of the family, they embrace him and love him anyway.
Though the main story was between Daisy and Hercules, the smaller stories involving Hercules and Zeus, Daisy and Hades and just the entire family as a whole really made the book special for me!
READ IF YOU LIKE:
- Contemporary mythology retelling
- Enemies to lovers
- Heroine in danger
- Bodyguard romance
- Tortured hero
I received an ARC copy courtesy of Valentine PR & Amelia Wilde for my honest review.
May 7, 2023
I surprisingly loved this take on contemporary romance meets Greek mythology. Daisy is the daughter of Hades and Persephone, who lives with a condition where light and sun are dangerous to her. She manages in the world with aids but her life is in danger by reoccurring nightmares and a deadly assassin on the loose. Worried, her family sends former military Hercules to be her bodyguard. Hercules and Persephone have a hate to love you, relationship that has never progressed beyond a couple of meetings, so he knows this mission will test him. As he falls for her, Daisy falls deeper into danger every day, and it will take much sacrifice to save her.
Daisy was a unique character given her disability and all her nightmares. She clearly is deeply loved and family centric given how immensely protective they are of this big hearted young woman. She makes her own sacrifices forgoing family so they don't see the true depth of her suffering. Her equal is Hercules, full of strength and guilt for being unable to save loved ones. His undying love for Daisy is swoon worthy. Hercules clearly worships this woman even as he deals with his complex feelings about being around the family. This story does have a deep background and I have yet to read Hades story. There were some points that my have been better explained in his book, but I didn't feel completely lost either. I think the only think that could have helped is a family tree for me to keep everyone's relationships straight. I am excited to see other characters get books and thought this story was a great one to kick off the next generation!
🎨 bodyguard romance
🎨 hate to love from a distance
🎨 Greek mythology meets contemporary
🎨 steamy
Daisy was a unique character given her disability and all her nightmares. She clearly is deeply loved and family centric given how immensely protective they are of this big hearted young woman. She makes her own sacrifices forgoing family so they don't see the true depth of her suffering. Her equal is Hercules, full of strength and guilt for being unable to save loved ones. His undying love for Daisy is swoon worthy. Hercules clearly worships this woman even as he deals with his complex feelings about being around the family. This story does have a deep background and I have yet to read Hades story. There were some points that my have been better explained in his book, but I didn't feel completely lost either. I think the only think that could have helped is a family tree for me to keep everyone's relationships straight. I am excited to see other characters get books and thought this story was a great one to kick off the next generation!
🎨 bodyguard romance
🎨 hate to love from a distance
🎨 Greek mythology meets contemporary
🎨 steamy
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