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The New Olympus #2
Oblivion's River
Hephaestus is only one who can get answers from Lethe, so he'll punish her, bend her, use her. Until she gives him everything.
There are so many things Lethe can't remember. The gods she hurt. The gods who hurt her. Most importantly, she can't remember the location of the knife she needs to trade for her freedom. She doesn't want to, happy to remain in the darkness and silence, forgotten.
When the other gods drag her from her prison, bent on answers, she finds herself faced with Hephaestus. A god she shouldn't remember, but does.
He wants to play a game, but Lethe is done playing. That's why she'll win.
Oblivion's River is a full-length, medium-burn, standalone fantasy romance with a guaranteed HEA. It contains steamy scenes and is an opposites attract romance. It is book two in The New Olympus series. While it is a standalone, reading the first book will provide the best reading experience.
There are so many things Lethe can't remember. The gods she hurt. The gods who hurt her. Most importantly, she can't remember the location of the knife she needs to trade for her freedom. She doesn't want to, happy to remain in the darkness and silence, forgotten.
When the other gods drag her from her prison, bent on answers, she finds herself faced with Hephaestus. A god she shouldn't remember, but does.
He wants to play a game, but Lethe is done playing. That's why she'll win.
Oblivion's River is a full-length, medium-burn, standalone fantasy romance with a guaranteed HEA. It contains steamy scenes and is an opposites attract romance. It is book two in The New Olympus series. While it is a standalone, reading the first book will provide the best reading experience.
317 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 28, 2023
19 people are currently reading
162 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
September 24, 2023
There is still time to preorder before release day!
Title: Oblivion's River
Series: The New Olympus
# in series: 2
Author: Shoshana Rain
Genre: Fantasy Romance
Tropes: Enemies to Lovers, Captor/Captive, Forced Proximity, Greek Mythology Reimagining, Scarred MMC, Grumpy MMC
Rep: Disabled MMC
Pages: 271
Steam: Open Door
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶/5
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Review:
I loved this book so much. Hephaestus is grump and a dirty talker, which is a wonderful combination in my mind. And dear Lethe just wants someone to care about her wellbeing and tether her to them. They had a wonderful dynamic in and out of the bedroom, each calling to the others inner needs.
**ARC provided from the author. All thoughts are my own.**
CW/TW: Mentions of past familial abuse, Drowning, Violence, Ableism, mentions of suicidal ideation, captivity.
Title: Oblivion's River
Series: The New Olympus
# in series: 2
Author: Shoshana Rain
Genre: Fantasy Romance
Tropes: Enemies to Lovers, Captor/Captive, Forced Proximity, Greek Mythology Reimagining, Scarred MMC, Grumpy MMC
Rep: Disabled MMC
Pages: 271
Steam: Open Door
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶/5
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Review:
I loved this book so much. Hephaestus is grump and a dirty talker, which is a wonderful combination in my mind. And dear Lethe just wants someone to care about her wellbeing and tether her to them. They had a wonderful dynamic in and out of the bedroom, each calling to the others inner needs.
**ARC provided from the author. All thoughts are my own.**
CW/TW: Mentions of past familial abuse, Drowning, Violence, Ableism, mentions of suicidal ideation, captivity.
February 20, 2023
MAN. This book took the words out of my mouth and now I'm left here wondering how to convey all of my feelings into this review.
Lethe and Hephaestus muh babies. They were both done so dirty by their past ;_; Lethe was often gawked and forgotten by other gods and goddesses while Hephaestus was left unloved by his ex wives. Their story was so beautifully written! I was so drawn into their love story and it's easy to see how they're meant to be together. They deserve everything 😭
Not to mention the steam level in this book! 👀🥵 I was not prepared for it and was blown away by how hot it was. Make sure to read this in private if you don't have a poker face 🤣
To conclude, Oblivion's River is fucking amazing and you should definitely pre order before it comes out on Feb 28!
Lethe and Hephaestus muh babies. They were both done so dirty by their past ;_; Lethe was often gawked and forgotten by other gods and goddesses while Hephaestus was left unloved by his ex wives. Their story was so beautifully written! I was so drawn into their love story and it's easy to see how they're meant to be together. They deserve everything 😭
Not to mention the steam level in this book! 👀🥵 I was not prepared for it and was blown away by how hot it was. Make sure to read this in private if you don't have a poker face 🤣
To conclude, Oblivion's River is fucking amazing and you should definitely pre order before it comes out on Feb 28!
February 28, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 / 🌶️🌶️🌶️
“Because this is between sisters. Only a rotten tattletale brings her mother to a fight with her sister.”
TLDR Review: these books are a blast, I just want MORE!
Oblivion’s River picks up right where Strife’s Apple left off. It is another action packed, lil’ banger of a book. This series is starting to remind me of way-back-when I first discovered the Sookie Stackhouse novels; not in subject matter or style so much, but rather they capture that same giddy feeling of pure enjoyment I got from that series. These books are just as easy to consume and perfect for the avid/hungry fantasy reader.
I’m supposed to be untethered, unconnected, but what if I weren’t? What if, instead, someone held me in place?
Now my only reason for eliminating half a star, is that I simply didn’t get enough of this one! I love that Rain has continued to choose MC’s with really unique, not so obvious / intuitive powers. As a metalsmith myself, I was particularly drawn to Hephaestus in this story. The idea and necessity of woven metal fabrics was pure genius! I would have loved to spend even more time learning about his various abilities and talents, although I fully recognize I may be unique here :D Oddly, it didn’t occur to me until nearly the end that Hephaestus and Lethe are essentially Fire and Water! As they’re quite literally opposites, I can’t help but feel it was a bit of a missed opportunity that we didn’t get to play with this idea more. Actually, if the book had been longer I think it could have improved the progression of their coupling; giving us more of a slow burn perspective would have made the overall relationship feel less toxic, and the book itself less formulaic when compared to the previous. All that said, the writing is still superb, often staggeringly beautiful. I’m more than excited for Book 3, Invoking Ruin, and can’t wait to see what else comes from Rain in the future.
He’s like an anchor, keeping me from drifting off, and the loss of him is sharp and staggering.
I never realized, before this moment, how much a river could need a mountain.
Lastly, I just wanted to say TYSM! to Rain for providing me with an ARC copy prior to OR’s official release. However please note, all thoughts portrayed here are my own :)
“Because this is between sisters. Only a rotten tattletale brings her mother to a fight with her sister.”
TLDR Review: these books are a blast, I just want MORE!
Oblivion’s River picks up right where Strife’s Apple left off. It is another action packed, lil’ banger of a book. This series is starting to remind me of way-back-when I first discovered the Sookie Stackhouse novels; not in subject matter or style so much, but rather they capture that same giddy feeling of pure enjoyment I got from that series. These books are just as easy to consume and perfect for the avid/hungry fantasy reader.
I’m supposed to be untethered, unconnected, but what if I weren’t? What if, instead, someone held me in place?
Now my only reason for eliminating half a star, is that I simply didn’t get enough of this one! I love that Rain has continued to choose MC’s with really unique, not so obvious / intuitive powers. As a metalsmith myself, I was particularly drawn to Hephaestus in this story. The idea and necessity of woven metal fabrics was pure genius! I would have loved to spend even more time learning about his various abilities and talents, although I fully recognize I may be unique here :D Oddly, it didn’t occur to me until nearly the end that Hephaestus and Lethe are essentially Fire and Water! As they’re quite literally opposites, I can’t help but feel it was a bit of a missed opportunity that we didn’t get to play with this idea more. Actually, if the book had been longer I think it could have improved the progression of their coupling; giving us more of a slow burn perspective would have made the overall relationship feel less toxic, and the book itself less formulaic when compared to the previous. All that said, the writing is still superb, often staggeringly beautiful. I’m more than excited for Book 3, Invoking Ruin, and can’t wait to see what else comes from Rain in the future.
He’s like an anchor, keeping me from drifting off, and the loss of him is sharp and staggering.
I never realized, before this moment, how much a river could need a mountain.
Lastly, I just wanted to say TYSM! to Rain for providing me with an ARC copy prior to OR’s official release. However please note, all thoughts portrayed here are my own :)
February 26, 2023
First of all a big thank you to Shoshana for providing me with an ARC to her new upcoming release.
I didn't think I could love this more than I loved the previous book. I was wrong. Oh boy, I was so wrong.
I have such a weak spot for the outcasts of society, for the ones we'd forget or the ones we'd like to forget. Well, Oblivion's River futures not one but two of those people. Lethe and Hephaestus.
One's made to be forgotten. Literally. The other has always been an outcast, seen as less, seen as worthless.
This was such a beautiful, touching story. Hephaestus could never forget Lethe. At some point he thought she might be a bit strange looking, but forgetting her? Oh no, there was no forgetting Lethe for Hephaestus.
On the other hand Lethe sees what Hephaestus is able to create. She sees the beauty and the crafmanship in his work. She appreciates him. It's more than anyone else has ever done or showed him.
Lethe has the power to make people forget. Oblivion. She once made Hephaestus forget. She made lots and lots of Gods forget who they were. In the previous book we saw how Lethe was punished. But the Gods still need something from her. If only she could remember...
They don't believe her. How could the one who makes people forget, forget things herself? She is Oblivion.
Hephaestus steps up, promises he's able to make her give up the location of the knife. After all, he made the lives of his previous wives a living hell.
Only, things never work out they way you expect them to. Hephaestus never thought he could be loved, could be needed the way Lethe needs him. Lethe never thought someone would see her, really see her, love her and cherish her.
They never expected to need each other, to want each other and to love each other. But the Fates have their own will.
❝I would cage you if I could.❞ My hand trails over her cheek, her lips. ❝Keep you on my shelf. You are so much more than a bauble, Lethe. You’re mine. My prize.❞
A journey filled with finding yourself, sacrifices, letting go of old habits and embracing love.
Shoshana did a fantastic job at bringing Lethe and Hephaestus' story to life. Her fist book, Strife's Apple, was one of my top reads of 2022. It might be early in the year, but this one is definitely one of my favorite reads of 2023.
I can't wait to see what's next in this amazing world.
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September 23, 2024
Enjoyable
This was a fun follow up to the first book. I really enjoyed the exploration of the characters of Lethe and Hephaestus. Their individual growth is a key part of the plot. It was also very interesting seeing how Eris from book one is portrayed from the outside. Looking forward to book three.
This was a fun follow up to the first book. I really enjoyed the exploration of the characters of Lethe and Hephaestus. Their individual growth is a key part of the plot. It was also very interesting seeing how Eris from book one is portrayed from the outside. Looking forward to book three.
May 15, 2023
I liked it better than the first book (Lethe’s character was much more interesting to me than Eris’), but it’s still far from perfect. My main problem is that the relationship between the two main characters was very surface-level and one-dimensional, there was no depth to it and this no not a good thing since this is a romance story.
February 26, 2023
How the heck is Shoshana Rain doing this? She’s taken something that seemingly has been wrung dry—the Greek myths—and is building fantastic romances from it by focusing on the lesser gods. In this book, the heroine is Lethe, the demi-goddess of oblivion, the river in the Underworld that allows the dead to forget their former lives and move on.
But what Rain does that is so great is that Lethe is truly the embodiment of forgetfulness. People forget her, and she’s also forgotten so much. So when the gods need information from her, they turn to Hephaestus. After all, the god of the forge should be able to create implements to elicit the facts they need from her.
What I loved about Hephaestus and Lethe is that each has so much they want to forget about themselves and their lives. They’re creatures of avoidance based on the scars they carry from past interactions. They’re drawn to each other right away—if anything, their immediate and utter attraction to one another was just a bit too easy—and they also see things about one another that everyone else doesn’t. Lethe is forgettable, but not to Hephaestus. Hephaestus is twisted and damaged, but not to Lethe. They fit together perfectly—if only there weren’t that pesky weapon that could destroy the gods that they need to find.
I loved these characters so hard. They’re simply wonderful as people who’ve been consistently downgraded by others but find each other immensely valuable. There’s some minor dominant/submissive elements that are brought into their relationship, and that seemed a bit too easy to me as well, in that it wasn’t really a point of tension but instead another aspect that showed how Lethe and Hephaestus are perfect for one another.
Rain continues to introduce other gods and build them up in this book, and I can’t wait to read more in this marvelous series she’s set up. So if you love myths or you treasure stories about the outcast and neglected finding hope and purpose, then this book is for you. Oblivion’s River is going to go down as one of my fave reads for the year, as I can’t forget this goddess of forgetfulness at all.
My thanks to the author for the ARC copy!
But what Rain does that is so great is that Lethe is truly the embodiment of forgetfulness. People forget her, and she’s also forgotten so much. So when the gods need information from her, they turn to Hephaestus. After all, the god of the forge should be able to create implements to elicit the facts they need from her.
What I loved about Hephaestus and Lethe is that each has so much they want to forget about themselves and their lives. They’re creatures of avoidance based on the scars they carry from past interactions. They’re drawn to each other right away—if anything, their immediate and utter attraction to one another was just a bit too easy—and they also see things about one another that everyone else doesn’t. Lethe is forgettable, but not to Hephaestus. Hephaestus is twisted and damaged, but not to Lethe. They fit together perfectly—if only there weren’t that pesky weapon that could destroy the gods that they need to find.
I loved these characters so hard. They’re simply wonderful as people who’ve been consistently downgraded by others but find each other immensely valuable. There’s some minor dominant/submissive elements that are brought into their relationship, and that seemed a bit too easy to me as well, in that it wasn’t really a point of tension but instead another aspect that showed how Lethe and Hephaestus are perfect for one another.
Rain continues to introduce other gods and build them up in this book, and I can’t wait to read more in this marvelous series she’s set up. So if you love myths or you treasure stories about the outcast and neglected finding hope and purpose, then this book is for you. Oblivion’s River is going to go down as one of my fave reads for the year, as I can’t forget this goddess of forgetfulness at all.
My thanks to the author for the ARC copy!
March 31, 2023
With her new book, Oblivion’s River, author Shoshanna Rain has, once again, given readers a fresh, steamy retelling of the familiar Greek myths.
To sum it up, this book is Rick Riordan for grown-ups. Even though this is a medium burn stand-alone novel, Oblivion’s River continues the engrossing pace of Shoshanna’s previous book, Strife’s Apple. Buckle in for page-turning action that will keep your bedside lamps burning into the wee hours of the morning.
If you are a fan of great fantasy that sucks you in with delicious detail and characters that leap off the page, the current of Oblivion’s River will sweep you away!
This series keeps a hackneyed subject (Greek mythology), fresh by tackling it from a wholly new perspective. Instead of rehashing stale storylines with the well-known Greek gods, the author explores relationships from some of the gods that don’t usually make it into the frat. I found that this made the main characters more relatable (as relatable as gods go), and creates an easy reader investment into the subsequent happy-ever-after.
As a reader, I found some of the development a bit rushed for taste. Not to the detriment of the story at all. I would have just appreciated a bit more time watching these characters come into their own, both personally and romantically.
Overall, if you are seeking a new fantasy romance series with varying degrees of burn, and storylines that magically sparkle, pick up Oblivion’s River by Shoshanna Rain and get ready to be swept away.
* I was provided with a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for a fair an honest review.
To sum it up, this book is Rick Riordan for grown-ups. Even though this is a medium burn stand-alone novel, Oblivion’s River continues the engrossing pace of Shoshanna’s previous book, Strife’s Apple. Buckle in for page-turning action that will keep your bedside lamps burning into the wee hours of the morning.
If you are a fan of great fantasy that sucks you in with delicious detail and characters that leap off the page, the current of Oblivion’s River will sweep you away!
This series keeps a hackneyed subject (Greek mythology), fresh by tackling it from a wholly new perspective. Instead of rehashing stale storylines with the well-known Greek gods, the author explores relationships from some of the gods that don’t usually make it into the frat. I found that this made the main characters more relatable (as relatable as gods go), and creates an easy reader investment into the subsequent happy-ever-after.
As a reader, I found some of the development a bit rushed for taste. Not to the detriment of the story at all. I would have just appreciated a bit more time watching these characters come into their own, both personally and romantically.
Overall, if you are seeking a new fantasy romance series with varying degrees of burn, and storylines that magically sparkle, pick up Oblivion’s River by Shoshanna Rain and get ready to be swept away.
* I was provided with a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for a fair an honest review.
February 21, 2023
Refreshing!
If you’re like me and you read a lot of big series, slow burn romances, I hope you love the fast pace of this novel as much as I do. I often find myself thinking, “look, we know where you’re going. Just get there already!” And Rain delivers! With Oblivion’s River you don’t need to pine for 300 pages. Things heat up as quickly as chapter 10. The whole story moves quickly, which makes it hard to put the book down.
We met Lethe in Strife’s Apple. I instantly found her intriguing. I love that she gets her own story. Lethe is reminiscent of Neil Gaiman’s Delirum from the Sandman series, and I am here for it.
Hephaaestus is the damaged but angry male with secret passions to endear us to him. His creativity builds with visuals that create dimension within the world. It feels both realistic and completely fantastical.
By the end, I was too happy to see information about the third book. These first two books—with their specific stories as part of larger whole—and their shorter read time, remind be of the Assassin’s Blade novellas. Rain is a new writer with so much potential. I’m excited to watch her develop and I plan to follow her journey wherever it leads. I wouldn’t be suprised to find her reaching Maas level of fandom in five or so years.
Smut Slang:
Frequent use of cock
Frequent use of sex (as in my sex throbs)
Smut Breakdown:
OS on a male
OS on a female
Vaginal intercourse
Very Light BDSM/Power play
Safewords
If you’re like me and you read a lot of big series, slow burn romances, I hope you love the fast pace of this novel as much as I do. I often find myself thinking, “look, we know where you’re going. Just get there already!” And Rain delivers! With Oblivion’s River you don’t need to pine for 300 pages. Things heat up as quickly as chapter 10. The whole story moves quickly, which makes it hard to put the book down.
We met Lethe in Strife’s Apple. I instantly found her intriguing. I love that she gets her own story. Lethe is reminiscent of Neil Gaiman’s Delirum from the Sandman series, and I am here for it.
Hephaaestus is the damaged but angry male with secret passions to endear us to him. His creativity builds with visuals that create dimension within the world. It feels both realistic and completely fantastical.
By the end, I was too happy to see information about the third book. These first two books—with their specific stories as part of larger whole—and their shorter read time, remind be of the Assassin’s Blade novellas. Rain is a new writer with so much potential. I’m excited to watch her develop and I plan to follow her journey wherever it leads. I wouldn’t be suprised to find her reaching Maas level of fandom in five or so years.
Smut Slang:
Frequent use of cock
Frequent use of sex (as in my sex throbs)
Smut Breakdown:
OS on a male
OS on a female
Vaginal intercourse
Very Light BDSM/Power play
Safewords
February 22, 2023
I loved this book, I got an advanced reader copy directly from the author, who is a really lovely person,. And I have to say I really freaking loved this book - I have the e-book on pre-order and will get a physical copy when that becomes available. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
I read Strife's Apple earlier this month in preparation for reading this book, and was more interested in Lethe than I was in Eris....and Shoshana did NOT disappoint in Lethe's book. Lethe's character is phenomenal and I rejoiced in her development through out the course of the book. Hephaestus comes across as a massive grump, but their interactions are chef's kiss.
The spice is lovely and the lead-up to the spice is delicious. This definitely has kinks and you should check out the content warnings on Shoshana's website as there are some pretty significant potential triggers.
Highly recommend, if you have been enjoying Katee Robert's Dark Olympus but also liked Percy Jackson with a little bit more mythological history, I recommend that you check out Strife's Apple and Oblivion's River.
I read Strife's Apple earlier this month in preparation for reading this book, and was more interested in Lethe than I was in Eris....and Shoshana did NOT disappoint in Lethe's book. Lethe's character is phenomenal and I rejoiced in her development through out the course of the book. Hephaestus comes across as a massive grump, but their interactions are chef's kiss.
The spice is lovely and the lead-up to the spice is delicious. This definitely has kinks and you should check out the content warnings on Shoshana's website as there are some pretty significant potential triggers.
Highly recommend, if you have been enjoying Katee Robert's Dark Olympus but also liked Percy Jackson with a little bit more mythological history, I recommend that you check out Strife's Apple and Oblivion's River.
February 20, 2023
Okay, so I got to read this early because I know the author (who is great and I continue to be super lucky and I LOVED it. It is so sexy and so thrilling and so, well emotional.
Like Strife's Apple, it has enough mystery that you need to keep going (this time to figure out the secret to why some of Lethe's memories are gone and the depth of what Nyx did in book one AND how to really start healing the damage) but you definitely want to be there for all of Lethe and Hep's relationship.
Both their arcs as individuals, coming to figure out who they are and what they need (and not feel sorry for themselves) as well as how perfect they are for each other (and not for anyone else, which is a kind of sexy trope in itself) as well as watching their relationship go from some fun BDSM that neither of them truly knew they needed to love to negotiating a real forever.
There is tons of danger and many nearly tragic close-calls as well as the set up for what will no doubt be a wonderful book three and I just can't wait. I totally recommend. Read it in like one sitting. Just adore!
Like Strife's Apple, it has enough mystery that you need to keep going (this time to figure out the secret to why some of Lethe's memories are gone and the depth of what Nyx did in book one AND how to really start healing the damage) but you definitely want to be there for all of Lethe and Hep's relationship.
Both their arcs as individuals, coming to figure out who they are and what they need (and not feel sorry for themselves) as well as how perfect they are for each other (and not for anyone else, which is a kind of sexy trope in itself) as well as watching their relationship go from some fun BDSM that neither of them truly knew they needed to love to negotiating a real forever.
There is tons of danger and many nearly tragic close-calls as well as the set up for what will no doubt be a wonderful book three and I just can't wait. I totally recommend. Read it in like one sitting. Just adore!
March 2, 2023
Oblivion's River
Lethe was imprisoned in Tartarus after poisoning the gods and causing them to lose some of their memories. Hephaestus was one of the gods Lethe poisoned, and the last thing he wanted was to see her or free her. But now he needs her, and he plans to give her a little revenge by making her submit to him.
I adore mythology and books based on myths, especially Greek mythology. Regardless of whether this is very technical or true to myth, the story is highly entertaining and makes you fall in love with the characters. I love Lethe and Hephaeatus together, and I really loved the domineering side to him and how bratty she is. Their chemistry is intense, and they work so well together, despite their past.
I do feel like there were some points that never got resolved, or it felt like I was missing details. I would have loved for the story to be a little longer so that the author could delve into more details regarding Lethe, Nyx, and the knife.
Overall rating
4.5 ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
3 🌶🌶🌶
Lethe was imprisoned in Tartarus after poisoning the gods and causing them to lose some of their memories. Hephaestus was one of the gods Lethe poisoned, and the last thing he wanted was to see her or free her. But now he needs her, and he plans to give her a little revenge by making her submit to him.
I adore mythology and books based on myths, especially Greek mythology. Regardless of whether this is very technical or true to myth, the story is highly entertaining and makes you fall in love with the characters. I love Lethe and Hephaeatus together, and I really loved the domineering side to him and how bratty she is. Their chemistry is intense, and they work so well together, despite their past.
I do feel like there were some points that never got resolved, or it felt like I was missing details. I would have loved for the story to be a little longer so that the author could delve into more details regarding Lethe, Nyx, and the knife.
Overall rating
4.5 ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
3 🌶🌶🌶
February 26, 2023
Oblivion’s River picks up where Strife’s Apple, the first book in the New Olympus series, leaves off and is the story of Lethe, Eris’ daughter from Strife’s Apple and Hephaestus.
I wasn’t as familiar with the Greek mythology but the author includes guides in her books as well as explains them so beautifully, weaving the history into the book itself. I love the unique powers the characters have and how they flesh out the characters and learning about the other gods, their powers and how they all relate to each other.
The story revolves around Hephaestus being tasked with pulling information from Lethe about the location of a special knife that can kill the gods. The only problem is, Lethe cannot remember it’s location.
This was a fast paced, steamy and gorgeously written romance between two characters with dark pasts that found redemption in each other. I loved, loved this book and cannot wait for the third in the series!
I wasn’t as familiar with the Greek mythology but the author includes guides in her books as well as explains them so beautifully, weaving the history into the book itself. I love the unique powers the characters have and how they flesh out the characters and learning about the other gods, their powers and how they all relate to each other.
The story revolves around Hephaestus being tasked with pulling information from Lethe about the location of a special knife that can kill the gods. The only problem is, Lethe cannot remember it’s location.
This was a fast paced, steamy and gorgeously written romance between two characters with dark pasts that found redemption in each other. I loved, loved this book and cannot wait for the third in the series!
March 1, 2023
No one ever remembers her, he finds her unforgettable
Lethe is content to just drift along all her life, just like the white waters of her river. Often forgotten, something she rather prefers, she never expects to be the unwilling captive of the God Hephaestus. Now at his mercy, she must work with him to fulfill the whims of her mother Eris and Apollo.
He can't forget what she did to him. All Hephaestus can think of when he sees Lethe is the look in her eyes as she made him drink her waters or Oblivion. He wants to make her pay for what she did to him and this is the perfect opportunity.
If Lethe will not bend to his will, he will break her, just like every other goddess he has in his possession. They can play this game.
But, what happens when they start playing for keeps?
I loved this so much! This was everything that I was expecting and more! I love the twist on the Gods and the new and refreshing stories! I cannot wait for more!
Lethe is content to just drift along all her life, just like the white waters of her river. Often forgotten, something she rather prefers, she never expects to be the unwilling captive of the God Hephaestus. Now at his mercy, she must work with him to fulfill the whims of her mother Eris and Apollo.
He can't forget what she did to him. All Hephaestus can think of when he sees Lethe is the look in her eyes as she made him drink her waters or Oblivion. He wants to make her pay for what she did to him and this is the perfect opportunity.
If Lethe will not bend to his will, he will break her, just like every other goddess he has in his possession. They can play this game.
But, what happens when they start playing for keeps?
I loved this so much! This was everything that I was expecting and more! I love the twist on the Gods and the new and refreshing stories! I cannot wait for more!
March 6, 2023
AMAZING! This is book #2 in the New Olympus series and it is even better than the 1st one!
(These are standalone books but are better read in a row for a better reading experience. It does pick up right after the first book (Strife's Apple) ends.)
This story follows Lethe & Hephaestus and the hunt for something very dangerous to Gods. Something that could kill them if found. Hephaestus is on the hunt for it but he needs Lethe's help, but Lethe is your memories forgotten in God form. She can't remember anything, and when she does try to grasp them the memory fades away. It's like grasping at air for her to try to remember anything important. But he needs her help to try and find it before anyone else is killed. Only problem is he's not her biggest fan for what she did to him. And now he intends to make her pay.
I can not stress this enough, this book was amazing! I can not wait for the third one to be released later this year!! 10/10 recommend
(These are standalone books but are better read in a row for a better reading experience. It does pick up right after the first book (Strife's Apple) ends.)
This story follows Lethe & Hephaestus and the hunt for something very dangerous to Gods. Something that could kill them if found. Hephaestus is on the hunt for it but he needs Lethe's help, but Lethe is your memories forgotten in God form. She can't remember anything, and when she does try to grasp them the memory fades away. It's like grasping at air for her to try to remember anything important. But he needs her help to try and find it before anyone else is killed. Only problem is he's not her biggest fan for what she did to him. And now he intends to make her pay.
I can not stress this enough, this book was amazing! I can not wait for the third one to be released later this year!! 10/10 recommend
March 28, 2023
𝙊𝙗𝙡𝙞𝙫𝙞𝙤𝙣'𝙨 𝙍𝙞𝙫𝙚𝙧 by Shoshana Rain ( @shoshanarain )
"𝐼 𝑛𝑒𝑣𝑒𝑟 𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑙𝑖𝑧𝑒𝑑, 𝑏𝑒𝑓𝑜𝑟𝑒 𝑡ℎ𝑖𝑠 𝑚𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡, ℎ𝑜𝑤 𝑚𝑢𝑐ℎ 𝑎 𝑟𝑖𝑣𝑒𝑟 𝑐𝑜𝑢𝑙𝑑 𝑛𝑒𝑒𝑑 𝑎 𝑚𝑜𝑢𝑛𝑡𝑎𝑖𝑛."
Let me tell you something! Let me tell you something! (If any of you know what this is from, you're the best! 😂)
I love books, I freaking LOVE them! And I'm easily made happy by the books I read. So it gets hard to really make it apparent when a book or series blows me away because 5⭐ is never enough.
So here I am shouting from the rooftops, 𝙊𝙗𝙡𝙞𝙫𝙞𝙤𝙣'𝙨 𝙍𝙞𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙉𝙚𝙬 𝙊𝙡𝙮𝙢𝙥𝙪𝙨 𝙨𝙚𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙨 𝙞𝙨 𝙖𝙗𝙨𝙤𝙡𝙪𝙩𝙚𝙡𝙮 𝙥𝙝𝙚𝙣𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙖𝙡! 11/5⭐ amazing!
⚒Spicy Greek Mythology
⚒Enemies to lovers
⚒Opposites attract
⚒Slowish burn
⚒Grumpy MMC
⚒FMC who can cause memory loss but is also suffering from memory loss
⚒Coming into power
⚒HEA
I immediately need physical copies on my bookshelf. And I'd take special editions too. 😍 Thank you RR Book Tours and Shoshana Rain for the ebook copy of Strifes Apple. Oblivion's River was read on KU.
"𝐼 𝑛𝑒𝑣𝑒𝑟 𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑙𝑖𝑧𝑒𝑑, 𝑏𝑒𝑓𝑜𝑟𝑒 𝑡ℎ𝑖𝑠 𝑚𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡, ℎ𝑜𝑤 𝑚𝑢𝑐ℎ 𝑎 𝑟𝑖𝑣𝑒𝑟 𝑐𝑜𝑢𝑙𝑑 𝑛𝑒𝑒𝑑 𝑎 𝑚𝑜𝑢𝑛𝑡𝑎𝑖𝑛."
Let me tell you something! Let me tell you something! (If any of you know what this is from, you're the best! 😂)
I love books, I freaking LOVE them! And I'm easily made happy by the books I read. So it gets hard to really make it apparent when a book or series blows me away because 5⭐ is never enough.
So here I am shouting from the rooftops, 𝙊𝙗𝙡𝙞𝙫𝙞𝙤𝙣'𝙨 𝙍𝙞𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙉𝙚𝙬 𝙊𝙡𝙮𝙢𝙥𝙪𝙨 𝙨𝙚𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙨 𝙞𝙨 𝙖𝙗𝙨𝙤𝙡𝙪𝙩𝙚𝙡𝙮 𝙥𝙝𝙚𝙣𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙖𝙡! 11/5⭐ amazing!
⚒Spicy Greek Mythology
⚒Enemies to lovers
⚒Opposites attract
⚒Slowish burn
⚒Grumpy MMC
⚒FMC who can cause memory loss but is also suffering from memory loss
⚒Coming into power
⚒HEA
I immediately need physical copies on my bookshelf. And I'd take special editions too. 😍 Thank you RR Book Tours and Shoshana Rain for the ebook copy of Strifes Apple. Oblivion's River was read on KU.
March 27, 2023
After seeing what Rain could do in book one, I was very excited to dive into this one. (They are standalones, but you'd be missing out if you didn't read both)! This time we get to meet two figures from myth that aren't often featured - Hephaestus, the smith of the gods, and Lethe, the spirit of forgetfulness (appropriate given her role in this story). The gods are in danger, and this time it's up to this unlikely duo to save them. I absolutely loved these two together, and the sparks they created together (seriously, the steam factor is fantastic). Neither of them really get a HEA in traditional mythology, so it was nice to read a book that guaranteed them one (although I was dying to see how it would all play out). I honestly didn't want to set this one down for a second once I started reading. Highly recommend!
February 3, 2024
We're back on Mount Olympus, but this time we're following Hephaestus, god of fire & metalworking (etc.) and Lethe, goddess of oblivion (etc.).
Hep. has to keep an eye on Lethe as she regains her memories and atones for almost wiping out the gods in the last book.
But Hep. already has it bad for Lethe despite her almost sending his whole family into oblivion. The heart wants what the heart wants, amirite?!
🌶️🌶️🌶️/ 5
✨ Greek mythology
✨ Cute nicknames
✨ Forced proximity
✨ Enemies to lovers 💞
✨ Grumpy MMC
✨ Medium burn ❤️🔥
I'm really liking this series. The author has done a great job building her version of the Greek mythological world. The world building is rich, and I love the picture she's painted of the ancient sites.
The books are sexy, but there's plenty of sweet, grumpy and sassy characters as well.
Hep. has to keep an eye on Lethe as she regains her memories and atones for almost wiping out the gods in the last book.
But Hep. already has it bad for Lethe despite her almost sending his whole family into oblivion. The heart wants what the heart wants, amirite?!
🌶️🌶️🌶️/ 5
✨ Greek mythology
✨ Cute nicknames
✨ Forced proximity
✨ Enemies to lovers 💞
✨ Grumpy MMC
✨ Medium burn ❤️🔥
I'm really liking this series. The author has done a great job building her version of the Greek mythological world. The world building is rich, and I love the picture she's painted of the ancient sites.
The books are sexy, but there's plenty of sweet, grumpy and sassy characters as well.
March 5, 2023
I can’t even begin to express how much I loved “Oblivion’s River,” but I’m going to try!!! Hephaestus and Lethe’s love story was absolutely incredible, and I loved them both as a couple and as individuals. This book had it all - action, adventure, romance, spice, angst… the list goes on and on!!! I loved watching Lethe discover who she was; she was confident and self assured. And Hephaestus! He’s got a lot of fears based on past experiences, but I loved that he tried to put them aside and be what he thought Lethe needed. Hephaestus and Lethe’s relationship had its ups and downs, but overall, I thought they were a very strong couple. If you want a twist on Greek mythology, then I highly recommend both “Oblivion’s River” and Shoshana Rain as an author!!!
February 28, 2023
Lethe and Hep 😍
I’ve been anticipating this book since I read Strife’s Apple, and holy CRAP did Shoshana deliver!! I didn’t think it could get better than Strife’s Apple, but I was (happily) wrong! I LOVED THIS BOOK! Lethe and Hephaestus were like catnip for me, both being one of my FAVORITE types of MCs! Their story of acceptance of each other and themselves is *chef’s kiss*, we get so much more of the main story arc, and the spice in this one is so 🔥🔥🔥🔥! Hephaestus can make his own toys and supplies, need I say more? 🥵🥵 This is a beautifully written and wonderfully spicy fantasy romance you NEED to read!
I’ve been anticipating this book since I read Strife’s Apple, and holy CRAP did Shoshana deliver!! I didn’t think it could get better than Strife’s Apple, but I was (happily) wrong! I LOVED THIS BOOK! Lethe and Hephaestus were like catnip for me, both being one of my FAVORITE types of MCs! Their story of acceptance of each other and themselves is *chef’s kiss*, we get so much more of the main story arc, and the spice in this one is so 🔥🔥🔥🔥! Hephaestus can make his own toys and supplies, need I say more? 🥵🥵 This is a beautifully written and wonderfully spicy fantasy romance you NEED to read!
February 28, 2023
There is so much to talk about with this book! You get to see more behind the scenes of what happened in book one regarding Nyx. You get 2 great main character development stories. Lethe has been forgotten about by the other gods and goddesses and Hephaestus have been left feeling unloved by his 2 ex-wives. They both have to figure out what they want and need as separate people as well together. It creates a great store. Their chemistry is OFF THR CHARTS! All of this paired with suspense, danger, twists and turns you don’t see coming. I can’t wait for book 3!
February 28, 2023
Lethe and Heph are just broken in the most perfect ways for each other. The spice is top tier and I love how Sho plays with these characters we may not know as well as some other gods. I love these two, I love Sho, I'm just happy (can you tell I finished and immediately made this post)! Shoshana does an amazing job of balancing Greek gods being rules by their nature and learning to exert their free will. I think it's so fascinating to see the push and pull of the two. Further, I'm not sure how she managed to gently explore parental trauma without triggering me to all heck.
March 1, 2023
“We’re all related, you foamy bitch”
Oblivion’s River picks up right where Strife’s Apple finished.
If you want two misunderstood individuals, haunted by their pasts, who find their person thanks to forced proximity, this is the book for you.
Not only are the tropes on point, Shoshana has completely nailed the character development and world building, I could truely picture the scenes and interactions and was rooting for the relationship.
The spice was also top tier. Imma need that choker 😜
Lethe and Hephaestus have stolen my heart.
Oblivion’s River picks up right where Strife’s Apple finished.
If you want two misunderstood individuals, haunted by their pasts, who find their person thanks to forced proximity, this is the book for you.
Not only are the tropes on point, Shoshana has completely nailed the character development and world building, I could truely picture the scenes and interactions and was rooting for the relationship.
The spice was also top tier. Imma need that choker 😜
Lethe and Hephaestus have stolen my heart.
February 20, 2023
Lethe and Hephaestus make for one hell of an interesting couple - one a face that no one wants to look at and the other a face everyone forgets. Rain is able to bring forth the emotions of gods in a really unique way - showing us the inner workings of beings who have an instilled nature that they must fight overcome. It's a really great touch that makes the stories in The New Olympus series shine. Can't wait to continue with the next one!
March 5, 2023
This is the second book in the series by this author and I was so excited to get to read this book. This book is just as good, if not better that the first book in the series. I devoured this book in one sitting. This is the story of Lethe and Hephaestus and how broken they both are and how they fit together. I love the chemistry between the two characters and cannot wait for the third book in the series!!
March 8, 2023
I’m new to reading Shoshana’s books. And let me just say that I am not disappointed at All. I absolutely love reading retellings. Love Hephaestus and Lethe story. This book h-ad me on a emotional roller coaster. I absolutely loved every bit of it. It also kept me wanting more with all the Angst. I can’t wait for the next book and to read “more of this Author books. A must Read, you will not be disappointed!!!
March 6, 2023
Omg I can’t even express how much I loved this book. I absolutely love retellings anyways. BUT I love that Shoshana makes them all her own. You got me over here going on lil bit of a rollercoaster but I loved every second of it. As always I loved the spice and I can’t wait for book 3! Gimme more please and thank you!
March 6, 2023
Tempting Fate with oblivion
The second act to Shoshana's New Olympus was captivating for me. I loved the connection Lethe and Hephaestus had from the very beginning the way they are addicted to each other is thrilling and the spice is a little kinky and I love it! The way they protect each other and how they get through the issues of the gods is very special. I enjoyed every part!
The second act to Shoshana's New Olympus was captivating for me. I loved the connection Lethe and Hephaestus had from the very beginning the way they are addicted to each other is thrilling and the spice is a little kinky and I love it! The way they protect each other and how they get through the issues of the gods is very special. I enjoyed every part!
September 8, 2025
3.5 stars
Lethe can't remember what happened to the rift knife but no one believes her until Hephaestus uses his skills to forge the right equipment and asks the right questions. Hephaestus isn't sure if he takes charge of Lethe's punishment because he hates her and wants to punish her or if he's just lusting after her submission to him...
I really like these pairings of well known Olympian names with lesser known ones, and how they fit together when they don't seem like they really should, while I liked book 1 better this was still fun.
Lethe can't remember what happened to the rift knife but no one believes her until Hephaestus uses his skills to forge the right equipment and asks the right questions. Hephaestus isn't sure if he takes charge of Lethe's punishment because he hates her and wants to punish her or if he's just lusting after her submission to him...
I really like these pairings of well known Olympian names with lesser known ones, and how they fit together when they don't seem like they really should, while I liked book 1 better this was still fun.
December 20, 2025
Once again, I enjoyed the story, but there just needs to be a bit more editing. I'm all for proper use of commas and compound sentences, but she puts commas where they're not necessary. There are also some sentences that she had probably decided to reformat, but forgot to delete old words. Again, the story was fun and interesting; I just wish there had been more care taken by an editor.
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