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Love is a special kind of Hell…
There are some things Hades can count on in this afterlife—but love isn’t one of them.
When he finds himself at a speed dating event at the DeLux Cafe, he discovers a connection that will test every ounce of his hard-won self-control.
Too bad the object of his desires happens to be Hecate’s best friend, and they are all in the middle of a supernatural mess…
As the lines blur between fate and temptation, can Hades rise above his own demons? Or will history repeat itself—and bring him to his knees?
Hades is book fourteen in the Speed Dating with the Denizens of the Underworld shared world, filled with fiery gods, feisty heroines, ride or die besties, and romance that will leave you begging for more!
There are some things Hades can count on in this afterlife—but love isn’t one of them.
When he finds himself at a speed dating event at the DeLux Cafe, he discovers a connection that will test every ounce of his hard-won self-control.
Too bad the object of his desires happens to be Hecate’s best friend, and they are all in the middle of a supernatural mess…
As the lines blur between fate and temptation, can Hades rise above his own demons? Or will history repeat itself—and bring him to his knees?
Hades is book fourteen in the Speed Dating with the Denizens of the Underworld shared world, filled with fiery gods, feisty heroines, ride or die besties, and romance that will leave you begging for more!
- GenresParanormal
474 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 13, 2022
8 people are currently reading
91 people want to read
About the author
Ariel Dawn
76 books284 followersUSA Today Bestselling Author Ariel Dawn is a real life mermaid and self-professed geek with a penchant for a good book and a strong cup of coffee (or tea!).
Ariel writes plot driven paranormal romance, monster romance, reverse harem, and urban fantasy featuring feisty heroines, sinfully delicious heroes, and neurodivergent besties.
As a fellow neurodivergent, when she isn't writing, she can be found cosplaying, attending conventions, or creating all sorts of artwork in her studio. She loves hanging out with family and friends as well as playing video games and board games with her retro gamer husband.
Ariel writes plot driven paranormal romance, monster romance, reverse harem, and urban fantasy featuring feisty heroines, sinfully delicious heroes, and neurodivergent besties.
As a fellow neurodivergent, when she isn't writing, she can be found cosplaying, attending conventions, or creating all sorts of artwork in her studio. She loves hanging out with family and friends as well as playing video games and board games with her retro gamer husband.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
January 11, 2023
Fantastic Book
Love this book and the story of their relationship with friends and each other. She really made the journey of their lives real.
Love this book and the story of their relationship with friends and each other. She really made the journey of their lives real.
September 11, 2022
Spiciness Rating: 2/5 🌶️🌶️
Overall Rating: 1/5 ⭐
This is an ARC review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
A swing and a miss! I went into this book looking forward to what it would bring. I generally love all mythology and their subsequent retellings but this one left a bitter taste in my mouth. The author’s writing was all over the place, which was very frustrating. I enjoy reading from different character’s points of view but I hated how the author would tell the same scene from the opposing character's view when they had nothing of importance to add. She could have just continued on from the new character’s point of view in a new scene. Not only that but it felt as if the author skipped scenes. It was never mentioned that the shifter had the diviner and that was what was creating the sparks between him and Cate. But later it is mentioned as if the character’s already knew that… but you as the reader are reading from their perspectives and it isn’t mentioned. This happens several times throughout the book. For example we don’t get Hades’ perspective of his time while Cate is bringing the unconscious shifter to the car but it assumes we know what happened during that time. It was so hard to get through and as such I cannot give this more than a 1/5 rating.
Overall Rating: 1/5 ⭐
This is an ARC review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
A swing and a miss! I went into this book looking forward to what it would bring. I generally love all mythology and their subsequent retellings but this one left a bitter taste in my mouth. The author’s writing was all over the place, which was very frustrating. I enjoy reading from different character’s points of view but I hated how the author would tell the same scene from the opposing character's view when they had nothing of importance to add. She could have just continued on from the new character’s point of view in a new scene. Not only that but it felt as if the author skipped scenes. It was never mentioned that the shifter had the diviner and that was what was creating the sparks between him and Cate. But later it is mentioned as if the character’s already knew that… but you as the reader are reading from their perspectives and it isn’t mentioned. This happens several times throughout the book. For example we don’t get Hades’ perspective of his time while Cate is bringing the unconscious shifter to the car but it assumes we know what happened during that time. It was so hard to get through and as such I cannot give this more than a 1/5 rating.
September 5, 2022
Everyone knows the stories of Hades and Persephone, how their love almost killed Persephone so Hades let her go to live her life as human. At that time Hades gave up his soul so he would not have to feel the pain of loss. But this is Hades and Darcy's story. Hades meets Darcy at the DeLux Café and feels something. He does not know what but he knows it's real. Darcy works at an animal rescue shelter and when she meets Hades she knows there is something there too. Darcy has fallen in love with Hades and Hades finally realizes that Darcy is his true mate but can he go through the pain again of loving a human. A human can not live in the Underworld, it will kill them so what can Hades do. This is such a great story. I loved every word. I was rooting for Hades and Darcy through the whole book. Exceptional read, all the Denizens of the Underworld are great reads. But I absolutely loved Hades and Darcy's story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 13, 2022
Sugar & Spice
Hades ends up at Speed Dating on one of his quarterly trips to the surface. He runs into Cate. Inadvertently falls into an adventure. This triggers a chain of unexpected events including meeting his soulmate, Darcy. A Diviner glows wth a mortal. After having his heart shattered losing Persephone what will Hades do with Darcy, a mortal? Will Hades be able to find a way to be with his soulmate, Darcy a mortal? What will he choose? This story is amazing. It had me on the edge of my seat. The steam is high. I couldn't pit this book down. It is a stand alone. However, if you have read Hecate & Hell's Belle you'll see many familiar faces. There's action , romance, unexpected developments and alot of heart tugging moments in Hades. I highly recommend it. Tune in to find out in another amazing Speed Dating Denizens of the Underworld series book! Are you ready for your next book boyfriend?
Hades ends up at Speed Dating on one of his quarterly trips to the surface. He runs into Cate. Inadvertently falls into an adventure. This triggers a chain of unexpected events including meeting his soulmate, Darcy. A Diviner glows wth a mortal. After having his heart shattered losing Persephone what will Hades do with Darcy, a mortal? Will Hades be able to find a way to be with his soulmate, Darcy a mortal? What will he choose? This story is amazing. It had me on the edge of my seat. The steam is high. I couldn't pit this book down. It is a stand alone. However, if you have read Hecate & Hell's Belle you'll see many familiar faces. There's action , romance, unexpected developments and alot of heart tugging moments in Hades. I highly recommend it. Tune in to find out in another amazing Speed Dating Denizens of the Underworld series book! Are you ready for your next book boyfriend?
August 10, 2022
This is Book 14 of Speed Dating with the Denizens of the Underworld. This is the story for Hades and Darcy. Oh I loved Darcy and her ability to get her best friend to go all loaded lips when she is flustered. I loved how Darcy and Hades meet while helping said friend. I laughed so much with these two as Hades tries to keep away from his soulmate. I loved the little bit of danger Hades finds himself in and how it is the human woman to rescue him. I loved how this book ends too. I loved the sweet love story with its happily ever after. I can not get enough of these dating matches and cry every time I finish one book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 5, 2022
This book tore me apart, but I loved it. I truly felt for Hades, he had to leave his love behind thinking he would never find love again. He found love again with Darcy, but he tried to avoid it. I truly enjoyed the time they spent together, especially how they first met. They were perfect. One of my favorite parts of Hades personality, was him writing post-it notes for places he wants to go. This book definitely has you rooting for Hades and Darcy to find happiness. I loved the end and the sacrifice he was willing to make for Darcy, so romantic. This is an exceptional read with a little bit of everything, and amazing characters. I highly recommend it. I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 13, 2022
This is another wonderful story within this series. This story is about Hades and Darcy who works at New Haven Animal Rescue. Hades goes to the DeLux Cafe for the speed dating event and sitting at the bar sees his friend Hecate/Cate who brought her friend Darcy. Hecate leaves with a man, alerting Darcy since she's, her ride. Darcy discovers Hecate with an unconscious man in the alley. Hades is pique by a mysterious energy and follows it into the alley. They all decide to carry the man into the Rescue's van and away from the cafe. On the drive, Hades and Darcy hit it off but Hades is reluctant because of her friend. What occurs is an enjoyable romantic story that I received and volunteer to read and review.
September 13, 2022
I love stories based on fantasy and mythological beings/gods, so this story was right in my wheelhouse. This was a new-to-me author, and I enjoyed her personification of Hades. After losing out once on love, he has hardened his heart...but he as not expecting the human woman, Darcy. When he realizes they are mates, will he take a chance on love again with a human who cannot live with him in the Underworld. What is he willing to sacrifice for love? I was absolutely pulled along by the story wondering how it would end and how they would find HEA. The conclusion was very satisfying.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 13, 2022
This story has Hades helping many other gods with their romantic and dangerous situations that was mentioned in previous books. He and Darcy romance was a wild ride while they helped their friends.
Hades is a broken man( god) he found love once but had to let her go to live. Since that time, he never allowed himself to love again until he met his soulmate Darcy. There's plenty of hot steamy scenes between these two as they deal with not only their drama but their friends as well. I really like this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Hades is a broken man( god) he found love once but had to let her go to live. Since that time, he never allowed himself to love again until he met his soulmate Darcy. There's plenty of hot steamy scenes between these two as they deal with not only their drama but their friends as well. I really like this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 30, 2022
I really loved Hades and Darcy's story in the 'Dating with the Denizens of the Underworld series. It was exciting, funny, steamy, and had a story that was a little emotional as well. I really liked how Darcy had to end up saving Hades when he was in danger as well. I've read a lot of the stories in this series and I liked how this one was pretty long so we get a better view of the characters and what they were thinking and going through. Can't wait to read some of the stories about the side characters next!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 22, 2022
good
Good book overall. Characters were good, plot stuttered a bit with timing and the BDSM aspects could have used a lot more research but the ending was good, a little anticlimactic but good. Hades is a god not an angel so the wings on the cover make no sense to me. Plus there were parts of other books in the series written by both this author and other authors in the series that, out of context, distracted from this plot. The only fight scene/external conflict was from another authors book’s otherwise it was all Hades internal conflict which for a god with no soul, involved a lot of soul searching. Not a book I would recommend.
Good book overall. Characters were good, plot stuttered a bit with timing and the BDSM aspects could have used a lot more research but the ending was good, a little anticlimactic but good. Hades is a god not an angel so the wings on the cover make no sense to me. Plus there were parts of other books in the series written by both this author and other authors in the series that, out of context, distracted from this plot. The only fight scene/external conflict was from another authors book’s otherwise it was all Hades internal conflict which for a god with no soul, involved a lot of soul searching. Not a book I would recommend.
August 23, 2022
I love this series, and this book is probably my favourite so far. Each story is by a different author, but I loved how this story is more or less simultaneous with Hecate and Persephone's stories. This version of Hades is a little raw from giving up the person he considered to be the love of his life, only to find a mere mortal who more than steps up to the plate for him. An interesting, vulnerable take on Hades that I could have never imagined appreciating. Fast paced, well written with amazing world and character building.
September 12, 2022
Hades has kept to himself since he took Persephone’s memories and sent her away to save her life. Now, like everyone in Lucifer’s circle, he’s been convinced to attend speed dating. While there he runs into Darcy, his friend Hecate’s human employee and friend. They both feel an immediate bond but Hades has centuries of insecurities and pain to work through. Darcy and Hade’s story also gives foreshadowing into Orion’s and Hecate’s stories respectively.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 15, 2022
Love this story of hades. I always thought he had a rough deal when it came to having Persephone only 6 months out of the year. Except here in speed dating with the denizens Hades is a heartbroken man just hanging around and when he needs to feel something he has a domme. Then let it be fate he meets human Darcy and well he starts having feelings . The chemistry was great the book was awesome and some steamy scenes oh yes indeed. Plus I saw a reference to a book I loved 12 hunks of herculeia. That so rocked! The hea gave me the feels. Definitely recommend this book!
September 17, 2022
Yes.... Hades by Ariel Dawn! The fourteenth book of the Speed Dating with the Denizens of the Underworld. I have waited and waited for this story! Everyone knows the story of Hades and Persephone, a tragic love story. But Hades is back and at the Speed Dating Event at the DeLux Cafe. When he meets Darcy, he knows he has found his soulmate but no course of true love is without its challenges! A sigh worthy read!.
This honest and voluntary review was made possible by reading a copy through Booksprout.
This honest and voluntary review was made possible by reading a copy through Booksprout.
August 8, 2023
For this episode we are joined by Ariel Dawn to discuss one of her books in the shared world of Speed Dating with the Denizens of the Underworld. Come along as we explore the journey of Hades from heartbroken, down on love, underworld bureaucrat to totally smitten and willing to give up immortality for Darcy, a regular human being. We can’t get enough of the sexy scenes Ariel writes and they lead us into a discussion of our own experiences with movie theater sex. If you haven’t jumped into the fun and sexy world of Underworld Speed Dating what are you waiting for?
August 11, 2022
This is a lovely romance in a series of mythology romances, which has a fun backstory and explains why Hades is not with Persephone any more. Hades character has depth and style, and I really loved the ending. Darcy is just plain cute, too. I have read a lot of the other stories in this series, and they have all been great fun to read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 9, 2022
An awesome love story! Hades rediscovers himself... Darcy just wants to find that someone special. Hades thrives on routine and Darcy is a spur of the moment gal. The relationship heats up... a mysterious request causes a huge bump in the road and in the end all goes well. The road to the end is full of drama, fun, regret and a lot of self discovery! Looking forward to the next episode!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 12, 2022
I have read quite a few stories with Hades in it and this is by far the best one I have read yet. I enjoyed the relationship he has with Darcy, which was sweet and very sexy. The writing was outstanding, very detailed and made me envision me being there. That is something not all authors can achieve. I look forward to reading more in this series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a honest review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a honest review.
September 13, 2022
Hades harden his heart after losing his one love, so he would not feel again. When he meets Darcy at the cafe, something stirs within him. Darcy is human and feels the connection. Trouble that humans can't live in the underworld, and it pains Hades to have to give up his true mate.
Great addition to the series and an amazing story to get lost in. My heart fell for Darcy and Hades.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Great addition to the series and an amazing story to get lost in. My heart fell for Darcy and Hades.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 18, 2022
This is another fantastic read by this series! Hades feels doomed to never love again after he fell so hard before and had to trade his soul to release his love Persephone. Now he goes topside 4 times a year and happens to go to a speed dating mixer where he meets Darcy. Can these two overcome the obstacles in their path and have a future together?.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 19, 2022
This is the 14th book in Speed Dating with the Denizens of the Underworld Ariel’s 2nd book. This is happily ever after and love lost/ regained. This is about Darcy and her to-be mate Hades. We all know about Persephone, or do we? What’s more fun than gods, shifters, and did I mention steamy romance? I loved it and cannot wait to read more in the series. You do not need to read the series in order, but they all have one scene in common.
September 21, 2022
Hades had been lonely since losing Persephone. He was persuaded to join DeLux Cafe speed dating event. He meets Darcy and feels an instant connection, but she is human! Hades is not sure he can live through the pain of loving a human again! Emotional story with love, lust, romance and fated mates. The story was well written, totally engaging, very emotional with a beautiful HEA.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 9, 2022
The ever present Hades is out from the underworld. He is waiting for his time to be over. After the loss and pain he just wants to focus on his work till he meets her. She does does no expect anything to come her way but meeting Hades changes her perspective.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 11, 2022
Hades has given up on love after his past experience. He never expected to be so affected by Cate's friend Darcy after their first meeting. Darcy is just awesome. Loved watching her get Cate to open up when you can tell Cate doesn't open up much to anyone.
The ending surprised me, but I really enjoyed it.
The ending surprised me, but I really enjoyed it.
September 13, 2022
What an awesome story! A fantastic addition to this series! Hades and Darcy were just so amazing together and watching their relationship grow was just so sweet! My heart went out to Hades! A very enjoyable story and the author did an excellent job with all the details! Highly recommend!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 13, 2022
Book fourteen in the Speed Dating with the Denizens of the Underworld series, a well written story that kept me turning pages. Hades and Darcy's story has suspense, drama, danger, a villain, romance, and a fun story to read. I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 13, 2022
Hades and Darcy are quite the match in this wonderful speed dating story! Hades finding his soulmate is truly a story worth reading. Great Story with loveable and engaging characters, that made me love this telling!!! No Spoilers!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 14, 2022
There are some things Hades can count on in this afterlife—but love isn’t one of them.
When he finds himself at a speed dating event at the DeLux Cafe, he discovers a connection that will test every ounce of his hard-won self-control. This was an intriguing story. Also a new author, for me. And am voluntarily leaving my review.
When he finds himself at a speed dating event at the DeLux Cafe, he discovers a connection that will test every ounce of his hard-won self-control. This was an intriguing story. Also a new author, for me. And am voluntarily leaving my review.
September 14, 2022
i always enjoy the Speed Dating with the Denizens of the Underworld series, it has a great concept and does what I enjoyed from the previous books. Each story has been written really well and I was glad I could read Hades.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews