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Daughter of the Underworld

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Melinoe, daughter of Persephone and Hades, wants revenge against the god who harmed her family. With unreliable magic and a handsome prince her parents arranged for her to marry, Melinoe must make her way through the Land of the Living to discover who she really is— a goddess unable to protect herself, or someone much more powerful?

Castor, the mortal Prince of Sparta, wishes he hadn’t made a life-altering deal with a vengeful god. When love gets in the way of fulfilling his side of the bargain, will Castor save himself or the goddess he’s sworn to protect?

Hecate, Titan of witchcraft, dreams of reuniting with the god she once loved. As she travels from the island of Crete to Mount Olympus, she finds her strength is a threat to those who would use her as a pawn for power. Her only solution is to hide in plain sight until the time comes to reveal her true intentions. Will she succeed in bringing the past and present together to achieve her end goal?

Trigger Warning: This dark historical fiction romance features a HEA and is intended for 18+.

343 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 14, 2023

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562 people want to read

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Jenn Lynn Adams

4 books40 followers

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5 stars
57 (39%)
4 stars
38 (26%)
3 stars
31 (21%)
2 stars
10 (6%)
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7 (4%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
Profile Image for Jenn Adams.
Author 4 books40 followers
October 15, 2022
Why yes, I am rating my book 5/5 stars. I poured my proverbial blood, sweat, and tears into this story. I hope you love Melinoe/Hecate and Castor as much as I do.
Profile Image for Jill.
189 reviews11 followers
February 8, 2023
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

———

I really tried to look past the constant mentions of rape and attempted rape but holy crap it’s constant. I understand here and there, sure. But it’s like every single character. The cursing also was off putting for me, though that could be a me problem. One second it would feel like a Greek retelling and then the f word would be thrown out there and it just felt unnecessary. If you don’t mind heavier topics then this might be for you. It just wasn’t for me and that’s okay.
1 review1 follower
February 20, 2023
The Greek Mythology book we all need. Jenny kept us wanting more and unable to put the book down. Lots of characters that were intertwined but didn't feel forced or overly complicated. The romance and dual-perspective was fascinating and kept me wondering what promise our Spartan Prince Castor made in exchange for immortality. Looking forward to part II.
Profile Image for Tiffany aka Chai Tea And Books.
1,009 reviews50 followers
March 13, 2023
Any time I see a book about Greek mythology, it is an auto read for me. I particularly liked the different spins that this one had. It wove in some of the classic myths that are well known, and then took it to another level. It starred one of my favorites, and showed off how much of a creeper Zeus was. It did have the longer length of the classic Greek stories, and it took me longer than normal to finish just because of the level of details and intricacies written about.

Melinoe is the daughter of Hades and Persephone, and has been training to become the future ruler of the Underworld. The only problem is, her magic isn’t on the same track she is, and she can’t get it to work. To strengthen her status and future, her parents surprise her with an arranged marriage. Castor, prince of Sparta, shows up in the Underworld and takes her to the Land of the Living. But it’s Greek mythology, so it can’t just be a happily ever after at that point. Nah, they have trials and adventures to experience.
279 reviews12 followers
December 28, 2022
Jenn Lynn Adams does a great job in telling the Greek mythology retelling. I was rooting for Melinoe and enjoyed getting to know her as a main character. I loved the use of Greek mythology and never really thought of Persephone and Hades' children. It had a great story going on and I was glad it does a great spirit to the mythology. I can't wait to read more in this series and from the author.

“Go on,” I encourage, despite the feeling growing in my gut. Alcmene takes a deep, shuddering breath. “I-I’m afraid this ch-child isn’t Amphitryon’s.” Her eyes lower as her face flames red. “I was forced, you see, against my will.” My eyes meet Helen’s, and I see a flash of rage, likely mirroring my own, before she composes herself."

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for G. Stone.
78 reviews3 followers
February 2, 2023
This book is everyhing I imagined for a Greek underworld book. I love the way that Jenn has written this book, her descriptions are phenominal and I felt like I was actually a part of the book. Personally I would recommend this book to 18+ due to the nature of this book and it's triggers, as a pre-warning some triggers include Sexual Assault, Rape, Forced Marriage, Swearing, Graphic Violence, Sex, Thoughts of murder and animals in pain. I enjoyed this book and loved how it was written but for me at some points it was a little heavy at times and I had to put it down and then come back to it (Please don't let this put you off reading it, this is just my opinion and thoughts).

I loved the different points of view each chapter between Melinoe, Castor and Hecate, it really gives you a insght into what they are seeing and feeling. This ties in nicely with the flashbacks that we see later on in the book, these also fill in a lot of blanks which makes you go "Oh yeah, that makes sense". The power that the women have in this book is something that wouldn't have been seen in the Greek times and it is fantastic. We see one character (no spoilers here) going from a "pretty face" to a strong female after something changes her life forever, she doesn't let it beat her and for that I think she might be the best character in the book aside from Cerberus (I mean he is a giant dog, he has to be my favourite).

This is the type of book for those who love mythology, slow-burn romances, twists and turns at every corner and our trusty cliff-hangers. I am hoping we will be blessed with a sequel but I guess time will tell...I just hope it isn't a long time because this bookworm needs to know more.
Profile Image for Courtney.
163 reviews3 followers
January 30, 2023
I really enjoyed this book and would recommend to anyone who enjoys Greek retellings. Though wouldn’t say anyone should feel limited by that either.
This was the first Hecate retelling I’ve ever read, and thoroughly enjoyed it. Not knowing the mythology does not take away from the story, I feel like you get a really good feel for it through this story - it also encouraged me to look up more for myself.
The love, the deception, the betrayals, and found family were all well done and believably written as well. I think the author utilized the pages well and none of the story felt like filler at all - everything served a purpose and was engaging.
My only criticism is that though it became obvious the setting was Ancient Greek some of the language usage felt very modern and of the current moment which could make the setting feel incongruous. Though I do not think this was a major issue for readability.
If you’re looking for a super spicy retelling this isn’t it, there is spice so if you’re looking for fade to black this also isn’t that.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Sombre Grimoire.
1,535 reviews21 followers
February 17, 2023
Que dire de cette lecture...

L'idée d'origine était vraiment très intéressante, mais je crois bien que le problème au final c'est que je m'étais imaginé quelque chose, une certaine direction, et que l'auteure à choisi quelque chose de diamétralement opposé (et ceux malgré mes espoirs avec les plots twists).

C'est bien ce qui aura eu raison de mon avis quant à ce livre. Et je ne peux même pas expliquer le pourquoi du comment sans dévoiler les choses...

Cependant je suis convaincu que ce livre a les moyens de plaire à beaucoup, ce n'était juste pas ce que moi j'en attendais.
Profile Image for Nimet.
168 reviews2 followers
January 27, 2023
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I really liked this book! I was a bit confused at first because I didn't know if some bits were flashbacks or dreams or whatever but then it all made sense later. I loved Melinoe's character. She's such a strong character and to me she was very likeable. And Castor, what a man 🥵. He was spicy 🌶️. Then of course there's Hecate as well. I absolutely adore her in every single Greek mythology book/retelling. She's a badass and just🤌🏼. I was hella confused about Melinoe/Hecate though. I know them as two complete seperate people so idk it was kind of confusing to me. These books kind of reminded me of the ATOD series, I guess that's why I liked it so much. Obviously it's got a lil of my faves Hades and Persephone so that's an instant win for me hehe. It was a little (too) fast paced to my liking sometimes, but overall it was such an easy read. If you like Greek mythology, fantasy and romance, this is for you. 🥰
Profile Image for Sarah Hall.
208 reviews
December 28, 2022
A journey through the Underworld and the transitions Melinoe faces written in a beautifully crafted narrative. Not only does our main character have strong female qualities, but she inspires us to embrace our whole being to one day become who we are truly meant to be. Add in a dash of romance and some spicy scenes and you have the making of a great adventure. Can’t wait for Book #2!
Profile Image for Jules.
22 reviews2 followers
January 31, 2023
Found this INCREDIBLE book on @booksirens and it’s absolutely consuming!!

Daughter of the Underworld - Jenn Lynn Adams

So.fucking.good!!! I read this book in one sitting and was thoroughly impressed!!! Has all the major tropes,

✅Arranged Marriage

✅Enemies to Lovers

✅Magick

✅Spice

The spicy scenes is a slow burn, but it gets soooo good!!! Highly recommend for anyone who wants a juicy fantasy romance! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily!!!
Profile Image for Vintage Books Library.
21 reviews4 followers
January 31, 2023
I absolutely loved this book, I think it is well written and has a nice pace. I would recommend this book to people who like Greek mythology retellings.
The story takes you to the different settings of Greek mythology like the underworld, Sparta and Olympus and during the story you get to know the
main character Melinoe/Hecate but also other characters. In this story you find everything from mythology, romance, unexpected plots, friendship and suspense.

The twists in the story was so good and unexpected and gave you a whole different side of the characters. I liked that during the story you are witnessing the change
of Melinoe and her adaption of this change. She is embodying a strong female character and a role model for women.

Overall, I absolutely loved the book and hope there will be more!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Michelle.
31 reviews8 followers
February 14, 2023
I received an ARC copy of Daughter of the Underworld from the author, in exchange for an honest review.


An arranged marriage between the fiery goddess of The Underworld who is struggling to prove herself and find her power, and a Spartan mortal, with secrets he's trying to keep hidden. This Underworld retelling was the story I didn't know I needed.

The Underworld and a gorgeous cover?? I was sold before even reading the blurb. Although this story wasn't what I expected, it did not disappoint.

Melinoe, our FMC, is a fiery little goddess and I loved her immediately. Although she had some initial moments of brattiness, my heart hurt for her and the struggles she was dealing with regarding her self worth and lack of magic. It even felt like her parents assumed her to be powerless and in need of protection.

I was originally expecting a bit more about Hades & Persephone, but that story has also been done several times over in many different way, so I really enjoyed getting a different perspective of the Underworld than what I was use to.

The one thing that did stand out to me were the spells because they were in Greek (I'm assuming here) and the flashbacks. The spells felt very true and authentic to the story, but at times, they felt a bit much to me and caused me to skim over them. The flashbacks in the beginning had me so confused, but they were also a pretty crucial part in Melinoe finding herself and discovering who she really was and who she was meant to be.

All in all, Daughter of the Underworld was well written, and kept me holding my breath throughout the story waiting to see what happened next. I can't wait to read the sequel, Daughter of War & Witchcraft when it releases!

### Fave Quotes

“I am the embodiment of Heaven and Hell. Light and dark. Good and evil.”

“Become what you were meant to be—my little witch”

“Keep fighting, even if the chains are stronger than you. You keep fighting. Every. Damn. Day.”

“I’m the nightmare that haunts your sleep,”

Check out Daughter of the Underworld by Jenn Lynn Adams if you're looking for

✔️Greek mythology retelling
✔️Arranged marriage
✔️Enemies to lovers
✔️Slow burn
✔️FMC discovering her power

☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ .5/5
Profile Image for Margherita Stark.
152 reviews2 followers
January 20, 2025
not you average greek myth retelling

I love this book Greek mythology retellings can either go one of two ways the first way, very similar to the very known plot or the second way of bringing in so much originality and plot twist and insane developments that leave you wanting so much more in this book is the second way to write a Greek mythology retailing without giving too much away you will not be bored so many secrets so many twists and turns my favorite quote is “I’m here” I cannot wait to see what else Jenn Lynn Adams will write and how she will continue the series. I am in love.
Profile Image for bee.
206 reviews3 followers
March 6, 2023
I am always a fan of work that is mythology-inspired, and this book was no different. Melinoe as a main character was so compelling when I originally requested this book. Actually reading it, I loved getting a look into a goddess that I usually don’t interact with super consistently. I wish her character had been a little more fleshed out, mostly because I was left feeling like something was missing from her journey. My biggest struggle with this book was the treatment of sexual violence. It largely felt like a “gotcha” that could be pulled out at any given moment and it often felt like a plot device, and for me, that was really uncomfortable. While I understand the genre conventions (for both dark romance and mythology) I do feel that this book could have aligned with the conventions without such heavy use of sexual violence and I think Melinoe’s Hero’s Journey could have been just as successful and worthwhile without that emphasis. I think ultimately, this book’s premise had a lot of potential, but the execution was not as successful as it could be. A short list of triggers includes; Sexual Assault, Rape, Forced Marriage, Swearing, Graphic Violence, Sex, Violent Thoughts, and Animal Torment. I would heed Adams’ warning that this is intended for people 18+, but if you are in the intended audience, I think there are parts of this book that are really enjoyable. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Jenny Grey.
166 reviews
February 14, 2023
This was a great Greek mythology read! I often find Greek mythology books difficult to follow because of the amount of characters but this was fantastically done!

Not only do we have a strong FMC who is determined and fierce, Melinoe had a strong sense of knowing who she is. I loved her banter with Castor in the beginning! It built the tension between the two of them beautifully!! The journey Melinoe takes to uncover her magic was one I was not expecting and loved the plot twists!!

Castor, Prince of Sparta is the best kind of pretty. I loved the relationships he had with his siblings and felt as though their friendship kept him grounded. Seeing as he is the only one of his siblings that is mortal, I was pleasantly impressed with his ability to avoid getting hurt.

From this read you can expect to see appearances from your favorite Greek mythological characters. There is amazing writing and a storyline that keeps you hooked!! If you are a fan of Greek mythology retellings I would highly recommend this one! There is great spice, and friendships established between Castor, his siblings and Melinoe.

(Just a caution, check the trigger warnings if you are a sensitive reader, if you are familiar with the Greek gods and goddesses you probably won’t be caught off guard by some of their actions.)
Profile Image for Dewi | Yerathiel.
141 reviews6 followers
January 19, 2023
* I received this book as an ARC, my review is honest

I was a little confused starting out. The flashbacks from Melinoe were a little offputting because the world was still building? and the secretive behaviour of Castor turned a little frustrating for me further in the book. I liked their characters a lot though. I wish there was some more energy spend on that element of the book. Rather, a /lot/ of stuff happened..
The story is a fun concept and in that regard it was a nice read. I did want to keep going to find out what was eventually going to happen.

All in all a 3,5. I felt like the book went a little downhill in the middle but got better near the end again. Some parts I wish would have gotten more attention than others but the characters are interestingly written and the spice was, spicy :3
Profile Image for Scarlett.
251 reviews4 followers
March 15, 2023
The start of this book was very promising for me. I enjoyed the character of Melinoe and her exploring the arranged marriage to Castor. Their trials and adventures along the way were fun and reminiscent of a classic epic. However, somewhere along the way things got a little convoluted for me. The addition of so many characters did not allow for very much development or for the transition from Melinoe to Hecate to seem genuine. Additionally, the flashbacks felt like whiplash to me and I had a very difficult time placing them or who was speaking during them. While the concept was great, I think the plot was a little detail heavy in some areas that it did not necessarily need, causing the plot to drag on and for the ending to be crammed full of information.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
28 reviews
February 3, 2024
3.5

* I received this book as an ARC, my review is honest

I was a little confused starting out. The flashbacks from Melinoe were a little offputting because the world was still building? and the secretive behaviour of Castor turned a little frustrating for me further in the book. I liked their characters a lot though. I wish there was some more energy spend on that element of the book. Rather, a /lot/ of stuff happened..
The story is a fun concept and in that regard it was a nice read. I did want to keep going to find out what was eventually going to happen.

All in all a 3,5. I felt like the book went a little downhill in the middle but got better near the end again. Some parts I wish would have gotten more attention than others but the characters are interestingly written and the spice was, spicy :3
Profile Image for Lilimomlovesbooks.
254 reviews4 followers
January 4, 2023
This book was an interesting read about Gods and Goddesses, Titans, the Underworld and Sparta.

The story follows Melinoe, the daughter of Hades and Persephone and her journey to herself and her magic.

I thought it was a quite interesting concept and hadn't read something like this before. The story is fast paced and and a good mix of action and storytelling.

Sometimes, I felt there was a little too much going on at once - flashbacks and change of POV and some things I don't want to spoiler, but ultimately I would rate the book a 4,5 stars, so rounded up to five stars.

The story ends on a promise for more to come, so I'm looking forward to that!

I received this book for an honest review.
Profile Image for Meghan.
136 reviews17 followers
January 24, 2023
I was pleasantly surprised by this book! I love all books mythology and this hit the mark for me. I really enjoyed that that language for the characters were more modern. The world building was fantastic. The betrayal, the slow burn, and the twists were all so good! I hope this becomes part of a series because I want more of Hecate and Castor! The only part I had a hard time with in this book is the amount of characters. They were all essential but by the end I couldn't remember who was related to who and what role they played. However, this didn't take away from the story for me.

Thank you for giving me the chance to ARC read this awesome book! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Jenny Kiehl.
6 reviews
February 25, 2023
I had never read a Greek mythology fictional book, but I greatly enjoyed this one. I’m typically attracted to fantasy reads with adventure, intrigue, steamy romance, and a strong female character, and this book fit the bill. It had all I was looking for and more. I also really enjoyed getting the dual POV, so you could really fall in love with and understand both main characters.
Additionally, you could tell the author really did her research when it came to Ancient Greek living and to mythology; however, I loved her spin on many of the typical characters and her introduction to several less known characters as well.
I highly recommend this read, and I’m very much looking forward to book 2 in this series.
Profile Image for The Sleepy Bookworm.
63 reviews4 followers
March 18, 2023
Finally, something that isn't Hades x Persephone

Let me start by saying I LOVE books based on Greek mythology. But the majority of what I've found have been Hades x Persephone books with Hecate as a side character or not present at all. This book finally gave her the spotlight. The descriptions are wonderful, and the story itself was a thrilling quest for revenge with a side of romance. I loved the relationship that Hecate forged with Pollux and Helen along the way, almost as much as I loved watching her fall in love with Castor. The continued mention of rape can be off-putting for some, but being that it's known that Zeus was a rapey bastard I didn't mind it too much. Great book. I'm looking forward to more from the author!
Profile Image for Jojo Goff.
12 reviews
March 24, 2023
I absolutely loved this book. Jenn Lynn Adams did an excellent job with Daughter of the Underworld. What she did with Melinoe (Hecate) through reincarnation unfolds throughout the journey to Olympus and Hecate’s reasoning behind going into hiding is weaves through the nightly visions Melinoe has before she accepts her true self as Hecate.

The character I believe that surprised me the most was Pollux, he stood against his twin while he stood with Hecate at Mt Olympus against Zeus for all his high crimes, who is also his Father.

The book’s main theme of becoming who you are meant to be through accepting your inner self in order to fulfill your outwardly goals is one that will keep you asking for more.

I’m excited to read the series and I can’t wait for the 2nd book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
180 reviews
December 11, 2023
This Greek Mythology was absolutely one of my favorites. I couldn't stop reading, there twists and turns, romance and dual-perspective. Jenn wove in some of the classic myths and showed off how much of self-inflated, ego maniac Zeus was.
For those looking to read this awesome book you need to be warned that it is a little longer then normal Greek myths and it really does have a lot of swearing, rape and attempted rape, along with some other heavier topics.
I my opinion this book should be a 18+ with a long list of triggers. That being said however, I really did enjoy it and look forward to book two. I really need to know how Castor became (opps spoiler alert!)?
I was given this book as a ARC and am very glad that I read it!

Profile Image for Jess Setencich.
2 reviews
February 21, 2025
"Daughter of the Underworld," the first installment in Jenn Lynn Adams' "Hecate's Revenge" duology, offers a fresh and engaging perspective on Greek mythology. The narrative centers on Melinoe, the daughter of Persephone and Hades, who embarks on a quest for vengeance against the god who wronged her family. Accompanied by Castor, the mortal Prince of Sparta and her arranged fiancé, Melinoe's journey through the Land of the Living becomes a path of self-discovery, challenging her to harness her unreliable magic and uncover her true potential. I loved the character arcs and the storyline gripped me from the beginning. Highly recommend!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
271 reviews3 followers
January 14, 2023
I liked the premise of this story; it felt original and fun. Sometimes I felt, especially at the beginning, that Melinoe was a bit too obstinate. Her character came across as defiant only for the purpose of being so rather than by necessity. At times I felt like the dialogue and descriptions moved away from the time period in which the text was set. Sometimes if felt like a regency or even a modern setting for a little bit. Castor grew on me by the end but he was a bit flat at first. The different characters and familiarization with Greek mythology was fun and engaging.

I received an arc for my review.
Profile Image for Lotte VS.
142 reviews1 follower
January 31, 2023
Even though I love greek mythology retellings, I had never heared of Hecate before. It was really nice to see a retelling that was not about Hades and Phersephone or Zeus or any other popular greek god (although obviously they were part of the story here too, but you get what my point is 😂). It was such a fun story, it really sucked me in and was very fast paced (in my opinion). Oh, and it was spicy 🙈

I loved the Hecate/Melinoe dynamic and the relationship between the FMC and Castor.

One point to make though, is that there is a lot of mention of rape/threat of rape. So major trigger warning for that.
Profile Image for Destynnee  Realta.
268 reviews25 followers
February 14, 2023
Daughter of the Underworld
By Jenn Lynn Adams

345 pages
Currently on kindleunlimited
Publication date February 14, 2023

Possible Tw/CN/Genres/Tropes
Mature, Fantasy Romance, Suspense Romance, Mythology Romance, Greek Mythology, Dark Historical Fiction, Dark Romance, Violence, Violence against Women, Novels. Profanity, Sex, Death, SA, HEA

This is an ARC review, and may contain spoilers please proceed with caution.

Y'all.
Read.
This.

I'm gonna keep it short and sweet, otherwise I will spoil the fuck out of it.

Go fucking read this.

I am on pins and needles for more from this author.

5 / 5 stars
-Destynnee
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews

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