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The Hades Trials #1-3
The Hades Trials: The Complete Collection
I've been kidnapped by Zeus. Plucked from the streets of Manhattan and frightened half to death by a freaking Olympian god.
And now I'm trapped in the Underworld, being forced to compete in a series of deadly trials for the position of Queen of the Underworld. Which would mean marrying Hades, the utterly terrifying Lord of the Dead. Who the hell wants a husband at all, let alone one made of smoke and riddled with death?
I have to get back home, to New York and my brother. But I can't leave without completing the trials and they've been designed for a godly Queen, not Persephone - barista and botanical garden enthusiast.
I'm surrounded by lethal, all-powerful maniacs. Sexy-as-hell maniacs, sure, but as dangerous as they come. And I'm going to have to prove to all of them that there's a goddess of hell inside me. It's the only way I'll survive the Hades Trials. But then what? And why, why, why am I so desperate to see under Hades smoky exterior and find out what he's hiding from me?
If I win the trials, I have to marry the devil himself. But losing might mean losing my life.
This is the complete Hades Trials, including The Power of Hades, the Passion of Hades and The Promise of Hades. It is intended for adults and is packed with magic, mythology and slow-burn soulmate romance! *Contains swearing and mature themes.*
And now I'm trapped in the Underworld, being forced to compete in a series of deadly trials for the position of Queen of the Underworld. Which would mean marrying Hades, the utterly terrifying Lord of the Dead. Who the hell wants a husband at all, let alone one made of smoke and riddled with death?
I have to get back home, to New York and my brother. But I can't leave without completing the trials and they've been designed for a godly Queen, not Persephone - barista and botanical garden enthusiast.
I'm surrounded by lethal, all-powerful maniacs. Sexy-as-hell maniacs, sure, but as dangerous as they come. And I'm going to have to prove to all of them that there's a goddess of hell inside me. It's the only way I'll survive the Hades Trials. But then what? And why, why, why am I so desperate to see under Hades smoky exterior and find out what he's hiding from me?
If I win the trials, I have to marry the devil himself. But losing might mean losing my life.
This is the complete Hades Trials, including The Power of Hades, the Passion of Hades and The Promise of Hades. It is intended for adults and is packed with magic, mythology and slow-burn soulmate romance! *Contains swearing and mature themes.*
660 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 3, 2021
About the author
Eliza Raine
47 books2,032 followersEliza Raine writes Greek mythology inspired fantasy that is fast paced, full of new worlds and creatures and sprinkled with a healthy dose of romance. She lives near Reading in England with her husband, three cats and outrageously cute puppy. She has a BA Hons in History and has a deep-rooted passion for mythology and stories about women who don't need rescuing.
She can usually be found reading fairytale retellings, playing board games or binge-watching Netflix shows.
You can read some of Eliza's stories for free by visiting her website at www.elizaraine.com
She can usually be found reading fairytale retellings, playing board games or binge-watching Netflix shows.
You can read some of Eliza's stories for free by visiting her website at www.elizaraine.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 285 reviews
September 6, 2022
not bad.
a little... ok, a lot long-winded but entertaining especially if you like mythology.
i didn't know a whole lot about either of these characters so i found it intriguing and edifying.
if you're looking for spicy shenanigans you are out of luck though. but it is pretty romantic which my inner squishy marshmallow liked despite her evilhorny twin's incessant refrain of, 'are they going to boom boom ever?'
however, i'm interested in Poseidon's story and will absolutely be picturing Jason Momoa is his full glory the entire time.
a little... ok, a lot long-winded but entertaining especially if you like mythology.
i didn't know a whole lot about either of these characters so i found it intriguing and edifying.
if you're looking for spicy shenanigans you are out of luck though. but it is pretty romantic which my inner squishy marshmallow liked despite her evil
however, i'm interested in Poseidon's story and will absolutely be picturing Jason Momoa is his full glory the entire time.
December 20, 2024
I love this series....er book. Since its 3 in 1. I had gotton this book as sorta a gag gift from my friends due to my recent intrest in Greek Mythology retelling. But I am a bookworm so I thought I would give it a try.
I love it. The tale of Persephone being reincarnated with no memory of her former past life and the King of the Underworld trying to respect her wishes to a T. But when Zeus brings her into the trials to find Hades a suitable wife and he finds out, its a roller coaster of mess and near death experiances.
I love the interactions Hades and Persephone have and Hades has a slightly softer side when it comes to her, which is compleatly different than what he appears to have. Especially when hearing about what happened and the way he felt afterwords. However, as usual, I'm not a huge fan of Minthe, which is kinda funny since I like Mint chocolate and such. (She was turned into a mint plant by Persephone herself in the old Mythology)
Whenever I hear about her in the book, or read the description, I don't know why, but for those of you that have read the Lore of Olympus, the Minthe in that series just keeps popping up in my head.
But I love the interaction between the two ladies at the top wanting to be queen of the Underworld, for different reasons.
I love it. The tale of Persephone being reincarnated with no memory of her former past life and the King of the Underworld trying to respect her wishes to a T. But when Zeus brings her into the trials to find Hades a suitable wife and he finds out, its a roller coaster of mess and near death experiances.
I love the interactions Hades and Persephone have and Hades has a slightly softer side when it comes to her, which is compleatly different than what he appears to have. Especially when hearing about what happened and the way he felt afterwords. However, as usual, I'm not a huge fan of Minthe, which is kinda funny since I like Mint chocolate and such. (She was turned into a mint plant by Persephone herself in the old Mythology)
Whenever I hear about her in the book, or read the description, I don't know why, but for those of you that have read the Lore of Olympus, the Minthe in that series just keeps popping up in my head.
But I love the interaction between the two ladies at the top wanting to be queen of the Underworld, for different reasons.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 3, 2021
Review of book 1: 4.5 stars!
Ok so I completely binged so glad I have the complete collection!!! 😍😍
This was my first Hades & Persephone retelling and I must say I am addicted, I need Hades in my life. The story is so fast paced that the pages literally flew in my hands, I sat down to read after lunch and by dinner I had already finished book 1.
Persephone is kidnapped by Zeus and taken to the Underworld to compete in the Hades Trials in order to become Hades wife and Queen of the Underworld. Problem is, not only does she not want to be there or compete in the trials, she is human and discovers that the entire Olympus is hiding a tremendous secret from her: She was Hades' first wife and she has no recollection of this.
The entire mystery behind Persephone's past and her relationship with Hades made this such an intriguing read, combined with the action-packed rounds of each trial and I found myself completely immersed. I absolutely loved reading about all the Greek Gods and how their traits fall into their personalities. As much as Hades and the underworld are death and darkness, Persephone is light and life. Persephone starts to see beyond the wisps and shadows surrounding Hades that he is much more than just darkness, however, as the secrets slowly come to light she might not even trust who she is anymore. Who was she before and was she still a person of light? Will she be able to give up her dreams and the outside to stay in a world so full of death?
I feel the slow-burn building up and it's killing me! I'm anxious for some spice in book 2 ! Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy!
Ok so I completely binged so glad I have the complete collection!!! 😍😍
This was my first Hades & Persephone retelling and I must say I am addicted, I need Hades in my life. The story is so fast paced that the pages literally flew in my hands, I sat down to read after lunch and by dinner I had already finished book 1.
Persephone is kidnapped by Zeus and taken to the Underworld to compete in the Hades Trials in order to become Hades wife and Queen of the Underworld. Problem is, not only does she not want to be there or compete in the trials, she is human and discovers that the entire Olympus is hiding a tremendous secret from her: She was Hades' first wife and she has no recollection of this.
The entire mystery behind Persephone's past and her relationship with Hades made this such an intriguing read, combined with the action-packed rounds of each trial and I found myself completely immersed. I absolutely loved reading about all the Greek Gods and how their traits fall into their personalities. As much as Hades and the underworld are death and darkness, Persephone is light and life. Persephone starts to see beyond the wisps and shadows surrounding Hades that he is much more than just darkness, however, as the secrets slowly come to light she might not even trust who she is anymore. Who was she before and was she still a person of light? Will she be able to give up her dreams and the outside to stay in a world so full of death?
I feel the slow-burn building up and it's killing me! I'm anxious for some spice in book 2 ! Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy!
January 6, 2022
4.5 Underworld Stars
This series caught me by surprise- I didn't expect to enjoy it THAT much.
The writing, the flow, the character (including the side characters ) were totally my cup of tea.
This series caught me by surprise- I didn't expect to enjoy it THAT much.
The writing, the flow, the character (including the side characters ) were totally my cup of tea.
March 8, 2024
Tengo que decir algo. Me ha gustado mucho pero a la vez se ha hecho eterno. La primera parte y la última son las mejores, la del medio es puramente estar cachonda por Hades, lo cual entiendo y comparto, pero ha entorpecido mucho la lectura. No tengo mucho más que decir, que vivan los novios y nos vemos en unos días Perséfone.🫡🌸
January 17, 2022
The Hades Trials
Genre: Fantasy Romance Trilogy
⭐⭐⭐⭐/5 stars overall!
🌶🌶/spiciness overall
Overall, this Trilogy was amazing!!! I'm so happy I bought it as a collection though because I wouldn't have been able to wait for each book to get here if I bought them individually!
Here's a book by book breakdown ⬇️⬇️⬇️
Book One:
The Power of Hades
⭐⭐⭐/5 stars
🌶/5 spiciness
I really enjoyed this first book because it has alot of world building. I'm able to clearly see all the intricate details in my head. I did feel like the author rushed into everything the first couple chapters. But if you're able to just accept that then you're in for a ride. This book starts with Hades holding trials(think hunger games challenges) for his new wife.
Whichever woman that wins the Trials will be the new Queen of the Underworld and his wife. Queue Persephone competing in the Trials. She's human and is conflicted as to whether she actually wants to win these Trials or not.
Book Two:
The Passion of Hades
⭐⭐⭐⭐/5 stars
🌶🌶/5 spiciness
This book was so much better than book one!!! Not only do we learn more about persephone and that she was in fact Hades wife in her past life. She did something horrible and asked Hades to wipe not only her memories but herself from history. So she became a mortal. They are faded though!!! .... soulmates. Twin flames 🔥! Like you're literally going to be routing for her to win these trials and want to fall back in love with Hades!!!
Book Three:
The Promise of Hades
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/ 5 stars
🌶🌶/ spiciness
This last book literally was so heart stopping! You need her to win the trials and you also get Hades POV in this book as well! His love for her is swoon worthy!!! For being the king of the Underworld and responsible for all the havoc of Virgo(his realm) he's has a soft spot for Persephone!!!
You need to read this Trilogy if you love sexy gods, fantasy that is riveting, a hilarious sidekick and Greek mythology!!!
Genre: Fantasy Romance Trilogy
⭐⭐⭐⭐/5 stars overall!
🌶🌶/spiciness overall
Overall, this Trilogy was amazing!!! I'm so happy I bought it as a collection though because I wouldn't have been able to wait for each book to get here if I bought them individually!
Here's a book by book breakdown ⬇️⬇️⬇️
Book One:
The Power of Hades
⭐⭐⭐/5 stars
🌶/5 spiciness
I really enjoyed this first book because it has alot of world building. I'm able to clearly see all the intricate details in my head. I did feel like the author rushed into everything the first couple chapters. But if you're able to just accept that then you're in for a ride. This book starts with Hades holding trials(think hunger games challenges) for his new wife.
Whichever woman that wins the Trials will be the new Queen of the Underworld and his wife. Queue Persephone competing in the Trials. She's human and is conflicted as to whether she actually wants to win these Trials or not.
Book Two:
The Passion of Hades
⭐⭐⭐⭐/5 stars
🌶🌶/5 spiciness
This book was so much better than book one!!! Not only do we learn more about persephone and that she was in fact Hades wife in her past life. She did something horrible and asked Hades to wipe not only her memories but herself from history. So she became a mortal. They are faded though!!! .... soulmates. Twin flames 🔥! Like you're literally going to be routing for her to win these trials and want to fall back in love with Hades!!!
Book Three:
The Promise of Hades
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/ 5 stars
🌶🌶/ spiciness
This last book literally was so heart stopping! You need her to win the trials and you also get Hades POV in this book as well! His love for her is swoon worthy!!! For being the king of the Underworld and responsible for all the havoc of Virgo(his realm) he's has a soft spot for Persephone!!!
You need to read this Trilogy if you love sexy gods, fantasy that is riveting, a hilarious sidekick and Greek mythology!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 4, 2022
1.5/5
I regret not DNFing this one. Not particularly fun, flat prose, didn’t even enjoy it when they got together. Not for me.
I regret not DNFing this one. Not particularly fun, flat prose, didn’t even enjoy it when they got together. Not for me.
March 29, 2023
Basically the Hunger Games with The Selection with not enough spice imo but good plot so yeah
April 17, 2022
I absolutely love the Hades x Persephone myth and I am always excited to read a retelling so ai went into this book with an open mind and ready to like it. That being said, this was a bit of a disappointing read. It had the makings of a really good story: a mysterious back story for Persephone (she’s done something terrible, removed from Olympus, and is now a human with no recollection of who she really is), a competition to become Hades’s queen, and a treacherous plot being carried out by an anti-gods organization. However, none of these elements are executed particularly well. The trials took up too much page time without adding significant weight to the plot, Persephone’s amnesia is dragged out all the way to the end of the book and what she did that was so unspeakable was rushed and fell flat, and the plot against the Gods also fell flat. It was like reading a 200 page story that had been stretched to 600 pages. There was almost character development in the major characters. Honestly, I could have DNF’ed this without losing any sleep. I finished it and I don’t mind that I did but it’s definitely not a book I’ll be rereading or recommending.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 17, 2021
Interesting story, pretty good writing, but the ending fell a bit flat for me.
May 10, 2022
OMG I loved this version of Persephone & Hades story even more than I expected!!!
It is SO GOOD!
Everything is beautiful in this book: the plot, the characters, even the cover of the paperback!
This is definitely going to be my re-read story for many times in the future!
If you love Greek Mythology retellings, I'd recommend you to read this book and guarantee that you will enjoy it very much!
It is SO GOOD!
Everything is beautiful in this book: the plot, the characters, even the cover of the paperback!
This is definitely going to be my re-read story for many times in the future!
If you love Greek Mythology retellings, I'd recommend you to read this book and guarantee that you will enjoy it very much!
July 15, 2023
Different
If you love Greek myths or even just gods/goddess stories you enjoy this book .I always thought Hades had drawn the short straw in the gods realms but maybe with the epic love he shared with Persephone he got something Zeus & Poseidon didn't .Brothers always squabble but in this story Zeus takes it to a while different level .I would of happily kept in reading more of this story & it's great side characters that weren't gods .
If you love Greek myths or even just gods/goddess stories you enjoy this book .I always thought Hades had drawn the short straw in the gods realms but maybe with the epic love he shared with Persephone he got something Zeus & Poseidon didn't .Brothers always squabble but in this story Zeus takes it to a while different level .I would of happily kept in reading more of this story & it's great side characters that weren't gods .
November 23, 2022
4.4 stars
This was unexpected. The author did an exceptional job at retelling an old tale and giving it a new twist. There was humor and suspense. Were there moments that were a tad over-the-top? Yes. However, the gist of the story kept me turning the pages. It was interesting to see the Gods in new light and the various interactions. The trials, at times, got to be distracting. Not that they weren't needed but I wanted more of the romance between Persy and Hades. This was tamer than I normally read in regards to steam (it didn't happen until much later in the book) but that didn't detract from the story.
This ended with the repercussion happening for the person that was the catalyst/instigator in this story and felt like it was leading to another story. It wasn't A cliffhanger but more like it was open ended to continue at a later time.
This was unexpected. The author did an exceptional job at retelling an old tale and giving it a new twist. There was humor and suspense. Were there moments that were a tad over-the-top? Yes. However, the gist of the story kept me turning the pages. It was interesting to see the Gods in new light and the various interactions. The trials, at times, got to be distracting. Not that they weren't needed but I wanted more of the romance between Persy and Hades. This was tamer than I normally read in regards to steam (it didn't happen until much later in the book) but that didn't detract from the story.
This ended with the repercussion happening for the person that was the catalyst/instigator in this story and felt like it was leading to another story. It wasn't A cliffhanger but more like it was open ended to continue at a later time.
January 14, 2023
Great Read!
I loved this story. The dynamic between Hades and Persy was unbelievable! I also loved Hecate and her bond with Persy. Skop was a blast to read! I love Greek mythology and this Hades and Persophone was incredible.
It's a must read!
I loved this story. The dynamic between Hades and Persy was unbelievable! I also loved Hecate and her bond with Persy. Skop was a blast to read! I love Greek mythology and this Hades and Persophone was incredible.
It's a must read!
August 18, 2024
The book had A LOT going on. Maybe at times too much. Don’t even get me started on the first few chapters. It was rushed and confusing. The spice however… Enemies to lovers, fated mates, and a slow burn. So good. Definitely made up for the times of confusion.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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September 9, 2024Adult Percy Jackson
Honestly for just a single book you managed to put a series worth of information in. I honestly have been chasing something like Rick Riodan and just never could. This was perfect.
Honestly for just a single book you managed to put a series worth of information in. I honestly have been chasing something like Rick Riodan and just never could. This was perfect.
January 21, 2022
Obsessed! This book was so damn good, may be a top 10 favorite of mine now.
June 21, 2024
Thought that was gonna be better, usually I love Hades & Persephone smut but this was p shit.
March 19, 2023
I am aware that this is three books in one. But this was about 300 pages too long.
March 10, 2024
My first Greek mythology retelling - I am unsure
October 5, 2021
New rendition
I'm glad I read this as one book, as opposed to three separate books. It's definitely more cohesive that way, and probably should have been written as such. I thoroughly enjoyed a new version of the tale of Persephone and Hades, that really was quite different. The writing was pretty good, allow a few words were used oddly. I don't know if that was on purpose, or an error but it was hard to ignore. I enjoyed the characters, and the story didn't follow the predictable path that it could have. I fully recommend this to anyone looking for a new take on an old tale.
I'm glad I read this as one book, as opposed to three separate books. It's definitely more cohesive that way, and probably should have been written as such. I thoroughly enjoyed a new version of the tale of Persephone and Hades, that really was quite different. The writing was pretty good, allow a few words were used oddly. I don't know if that was on purpose, or an error but it was hard to ignore. I enjoyed the characters, and the story didn't follow the predictable path that it could have. I fully recommend this to anyone looking for a new take on an old tale.
June 27, 2022
I enjoyed the story and kept me entertained. Enjoyed that there was some heat, but sadly not a lot. Good thing the plot kept me intrigued. I recommend this read.
October 15, 2021
I liked this book but I didn't LOVE it. It was a lazy day read. I did enjoy the non-traditional Hades/Persephone relationship but I was hoping for more depth with each chapter and subsequent book in the collection. I really wanted to know what she did so I kept reading but it wasn't a book that hooked me with depth and tension between characters.
December 26, 2024
The Hades Trials: The Complete Collection was a story that caught me off guard. I wasn’t immediately drawn in—the early shifts in the plot felt abrupt and threw me for a loop. But something about it kept pulling me back, making me want to see how everything unfolded. I’m glad I stuck it out because, by the end, it turned out to be a good book—a story that made the journey worth it, even if it wasn’t perfect.
At its core, the relationship between Hades and Persephone carried the story. I’ve always loved the dynamic of opposites attracting, and their connection delivered exactly that. Hades was everything dark and brooding, with a commanding presence that exuded power. Persephone, on the other hand, was light and life—full of resilience, energy, and an undeniable strength. Together, they didn’t just balance each other; they amplified what made the other special. Their romance was a slow burn, building with every chapter, and watching it unfold felt like the reward at the end of a long, winding road.
The supporting characters brought something extra to the story, and I can’t not mention Hecate and Skop. They were both hilarious and endearing, adding a lightheartedness that balanced the darker, more suspenseful elements. Without them, the Underworld might have felt too heavy, but their banter and quirks gave the story some much-needed warmth. Every scene they were in felt brighter because of it.
The trials Persephone faced were one of the most gripping aspects of the book. Each one revealed more about who she was—her courage, her vulnerabilities, and her deep connection to her past. The big reveal about what happened in her previous life was woven in so carefully that when it finally hit, it felt impactful. I appreciated how the story took its time with that, allowing the suspense to simmer instead of rushing to lay all the cards on the table.
The pacing overall worked well, but I wasn’t a fan of how quickly the story shifted in the beginning. Once the focus settled, though, everything came together. Persephone’s transformation of the barren land into something green and flourishing was such a poetic conclusion. It felt true to her nature and tied the story together beautifully—a reflection of how she brought life and hope to everything around her, including Hades.
Now, I need to talk about Zeus. He was, in every sense, infuriating. His arrogance, his manipulative nature, his overbearing need for control—it all reminded me of every narcissistic man I’ve ever known. I dreaded his presence on the page because of how toxic and oppressive he was, but at the same time, I have to admit that he added an important layer of conflict. He wasn’t a character I loved to hate; I just hated him.
The ending, though predictable in some ways, still managed to surprise me. I knew it couldn’t end on a sad note, but how everything fell into place wasn’t quite what I anticipated. That unpredictability made it even better. Persephone’s journey was full of struggle, redemption, and transformation, and seeing her come into her own by the end was deeply satisfying.
The story wasn’t without its flaws. The grammar mistakes stood out, which was a little frustrating, but they didn’t ruin the book. If anything, it speaks to how much I enjoyed the story itself that I was able to overlook them.
Overall, The Hades Trials is a story of light meeting dark, love meeting power, and the triumph of transformation. It’s not perfect, but it has a way of drawing you in and making you want to see it through. If you enjoy slow-burn romantasy with suspenseful twists, layered characters, and a touch of humor, I’d say it’s worth picking up. Just be prepared to be a little frustrated at times—both by the characters and the writing.
August 10, 2021
Love this series!! This the 3 books about Hades and Persephone: The Power of Hades, The Passion of Hades, and The Promise of Hades. Loved each book! All 5 stars!
Book 1
Love books that take place in the Underworld! Love Hades and Persephone! Persephone couldn’t handle something when she was Queen in the Underworld, so her memory was taken and she was sent to be born as a human on Earth; current Persephone has no memory of ever being a Goddess. When jerk God Zeus comes and kidnaps her, she finds herself in the Underworld competing to become Hades’ wife; I’m glad Zeus brought her back, but he of course is a jerk. I’m all for Hera getting a new husband. Anyway, back to Persephone, she needs to complete multiple dangerous trials to win Hades but also to stay alive. Loved the action and adventure going on with the trials; super glad the time was very limited with the other competitors, I don’t like the whole jealous mean girls scenario. Some cool world building; love all the creepiness going on in the Underworld. Lots of fun! Loved Persephone’s sassiness and she is a tough lady that uses her brain. Loved her friendship with Hecate! Hades is as expected; dark and broody, but you can feel how much he feels for Persephone. Disappointed Hades is even contemplating having a new wife though; Hades shouldn’t let anyone dictate who he should marry. This man needs to step up and protect Persephone and himself from controlling, pompous individuals. Still think he’s wonderful though! You can tell this man is passionate! Looking forward to seeing him grow and fight!
Book 2
I was super excited for book 2, and it didn’t disappoint! Persephone is really coming into her own now that some of her powers have come back; she’ll definitely need them with how dangerous the trials are for becoming Hades’ wife. Although, she already is his wife, so I’m still pretty salty that Hades still hasn’t put a stop to this horrible trials scenario. Still love him though! The romance is ramped up in this one, and oh man! the connection between Hades and Persephone is so wonderfully passionate! Love that we get a bit of Hades’ POV! It awesome to understand more about him and how much he really feels for Persephone. Still loving the Underworld setting, and the author does a great job with world building; some cool creatures and people and the mythology is interesting. Lots of action and adventure!
Book 3
Absolutely loved this! This whole series has been great! Super excited that the author is going to continue on with books about the different gods! Hades has always been my favorite, but I’m really looking forward to reading about the other gods; here’s hoping for some more of Hades and Persephone in the next books. This one continued to have the things I loved about the previous books; the fun adventure in the creepy cool Underworld, the passionate and sweet romance between Hades and Persephone, and the suspense and danger! Love the deep connection between Hades and Persephone! I couldn’t put the book down. So good!
Book 1
Love books that take place in the Underworld! Love Hades and Persephone! Persephone couldn’t handle something when she was Queen in the Underworld, so her memory was taken and she was sent to be born as a human on Earth; current Persephone has no memory of ever being a Goddess. When jerk God Zeus comes and kidnaps her, she finds herself in the Underworld competing to become Hades’ wife; I’m glad Zeus brought her back, but he of course is a jerk. I’m all for Hera getting a new husband. Anyway, back to Persephone, she needs to complete multiple dangerous trials to win Hades but also to stay alive. Loved the action and adventure going on with the trials; super glad the time was very limited with the other competitors, I don’t like the whole jealous mean girls scenario. Some cool world building; love all the creepiness going on in the Underworld. Lots of fun! Loved Persephone’s sassiness and she is a tough lady that uses her brain. Loved her friendship with Hecate! Hades is as expected; dark and broody, but you can feel how much he feels for Persephone. Disappointed Hades is even contemplating having a new wife though; Hades shouldn’t let anyone dictate who he should marry. This man needs to step up and protect Persephone and himself from controlling, pompous individuals. Still think he’s wonderful though! You can tell this man is passionate! Looking forward to seeing him grow and fight!
Book 2
I was super excited for book 2, and it didn’t disappoint! Persephone is really coming into her own now that some of her powers have come back; she’ll definitely need them with how dangerous the trials are for becoming Hades’ wife. Although, she already is his wife, so I’m still pretty salty that Hades still hasn’t put a stop to this horrible trials scenario. Still love him though! The romance is ramped up in this one, and oh man! the connection between Hades and Persephone is so wonderfully passionate! Love that we get a bit of Hades’ POV! It awesome to understand more about him and how much he really feels for Persephone. Still loving the Underworld setting, and the author does a great job with world building; some cool creatures and people and the mythology is interesting. Lots of action and adventure!
Book 3
Absolutely loved this! This whole series has been great! Super excited that the author is going to continue on with books about the different gods! Hades has always been my favorite, but I’m really looking forward to reading about the other gods; here’s hoping for some more of Hades and Persephone in the next books. This one continued to have the things I loved about the previous books; the fun adventure in the creepy cool Underworld, the passionate and sweet romance between Hades and Persephone, and the suspense and danger! Love the deep connection between Hades and Persephone! I couldn’t put the book down. So good!
October 28, 2021
RATING: 3.5 Stars
Well...
Firstly, I didn't know what I was getting into when I started this book. At first I thought it was suupppeerrr rushed. You are just thrown into this world right away with not a whole lot of buildup. I wanted to be brought into it slowly, but the second chapter I felt you were expected to know what was happening. I felt the interactions with some characters were strange in the beginning, like they were old friend just continuing an old conversation, with the same banter (I guess they were). I just wished the beginning was better written.
Next, The middle part of the story wasn't bad. It felt different than what I have read in the past, the story interesting. Eventually though, I found the story to kind of maintain for a bit, not much anticipation or buildup even though what was happening could be intense. I just wanted more. I felt something with this story but just felt like we didn't get as much of the world as I would have hoped for (just rocks, rocks and more rocks).
The ending... I found to be rushed and predictable. I felt like there was all this buildup to find out the real reason for everything that was happening but it was just anticlimactic in the end. Memories are a powerful thing but I felt like once we learned the truth it felt like, "Cool. That was it? That's what all this was about?" I imagined as you are expecting this huge explosion but all that came of it was a small puff of smoke. After that I just didn't really cared what happened after and there wasn't much since it just went by so fast after that and then POOF the story was done.
Where's the rest of it? Where is the damage or the retribution? I wanted something more than just something happened, people were angry, a lot of BLAH words were said and then LOVE EVERYWHERE!
Well...
Firstly, I didn't know what I was getting into when I started this book. At first I thought it was suupppeerrr rushed. You are just thrown into this world right away with not a whole lot of buildup. I wanted to be brought into it slowly, but the second chapter I felt you were expected to know what was happening. I felt the interactions with some characters were strange in the beginning, like they were old friend just continuing an old conversation, with the same banter (I guess they were). I just wished the beginning was better written.
Next, The middle part of the story wasn't bad. It felt different than what I have read in the past, the story interesting. Eventually though, I found the story to kind of maintain for a bit, not much anticipation or buildup even though what was happening could be intense. I just wanted more. I felt something with this story but just felt like we didn't get as much of the world as I would have hoped for (just rocks, rocks and more rocks).
The ending... I found to be rushed and predictable. I felt like there was all this buildup to find out the real reason for everything that was happening but it was just anticlimactic in the end. Memories are a powerful thing but I felt like once we learned the truth it felt like, "Cool. That was it? That's what all this was about?" I imagined as you are expecting this huge explosion but all that came of it was a small puff of smoke. After that I just didn't really cared what happened after and there wasn't much since it just went by so fast after that and then POOF the story was done.
Where's the rest of it? Where is the damage or the retribution? I wanted something more than just something happened, people were angry, a lot of BLAH words were said and then LOVE EVERYWHERE!
May 21, 2022
Loved 💖
Who doesn't love a good Hades and Persephone story 😍 I love reading how different authors put their own twist on the old tale.
One minute Persy was working in the coffee shop between studying the next she was in the underworld forced into Hades Bride Trials which Zeus had forced on him after his disobeyed the king of the gods. This obviously isn't Persephone's first time in Olympus but the last time she was here something truly tragic happened and she drank from the river Lethe to remove her memories and then Hades wiped her from Olympus history. She was taken to the mortal world where she was reborn none the wiser. Zeus always looking for ways to hurt his brother Hades finds Persy and enters her as the last contestant into the trials much to the other gods disbelief.
They may all remember Persephone and what happened the last time she was in Olympus but she doesn't and with no other choice she has no other option but to compete and hopefully stay alive long enough to return to NY and resume her life.
But as time goes by Persephone can't deny the pull she has towards Hades but how could she ever love someone so dark surviving in a world with no light. Persy finds a way to slowly regain her old powers even if she still has no memory and the more she receives the more she realizes she could never live in the underworld but living without Hades has become an unbearable option also.
Surviving the trials isn't Persy's only problem someone else doesn't want to see Persephone crowned queen of the underworld once more and she finds her trials being terrorized putting her in far worse danger. Betrayal comes from those dressed up as friends and she won't see it coming until it's too late 💔
I loved the trials they were so interesting and had me engaged the whole time.
Definitely Recommend Reading 📚
Who doesn't love a good Hades and Persephone story 😍 I love reading how different authors put their own twist on the old tale.
One minute Persy was working in the coffee shop between studying the next she was in the underworld forced into Hades Bride Trials which Zeus had forced on him after his disobeyed the king of the gods. This obviously isn't Persephone's first time in Olympus but the last time she was here something truly tragic happened and she drank from the river Lethe to remove her memories and then Hades wiped her from Olympus history. She was taken to the mortal world where she was reborn none the wiser. Zeus always looking for ways to hurt his brother Hades finds Persy and enters her as the last contestant into the trials much to the other gods disbelief.
They may all remember Persephone and what happened the last time she was in Olympus but she doesn't and with no other choice she has no other option but to compete and hopefully stay alive long enough to return to NY and resume her life.
But as time goes by Persephone can't deny the pull she has towards Hades but how could she ever love someone so dark surviving in a world with no light. Persy finds a way to slowly regain her old powers even if she still has no memory and the more she receives the more she realizes she could never live in the underworld but living without Hades has become an unbearable option also.
Surviving the trials isn't Persy's only problem someone else doesn't want to see Persephone crowned queen of the underworld once more and she finds her trials being terrorized putting her in far worse danger. Betrayal comes from those dressed up as friends and she won't see it coming until it's too late 💔
I loved the trials they were so interesting and had me engaged the whole time.
Definitely Recommend Reading 📚
April 12, 2022
At this point I'm tempted to write my own Hades x Persephone romantasy because I have yet to find one that is actually well written. Everyone loves this myth and is quick to capitalize on it yet no one can actually do it justice. I gave up on this 33% in, or just after the wrap of of the first book in the trilogy.
This story gives off heavy Lore Olympus vibes (she's a 20-something college student and everything!) but then has the competition trope that we find in books like Hunger Games and The Selection. The writing, however, is flat, rushed, and juvenile at best.
Persephone, our heroine, is dim and unlikeable who complains and curses so much it's the only facet of her personality other than the fact that she likes fresh air and gardening. Seriously, that's it. It comes up so many times that the only thing that makes her Persephone is that she likes to garden. She, like all the other characters, lack depth and she definitely seems like a Mary Sue self-insert character.
The book itself is plot-driven and everything happens to Persephone and around her but she is completely clueless the entire time. When she tries to find out what has happened (because she has been reduced from a goddess to a human young woman with amnesia) she is met with brick wall after brick wall of "I can't tell you". It gets tiring very quickly and even the trials that are supposed to move the plot forward and get Persephone closer to discovering what happened and who she is seem easy and lack tension or weight.
This story has the potential to be great, but unfortunately the writing is just very terrible and after I finished the first book out of three, I realized it wouldn't get any better. Would not recommend wasting your time on this.
This story gives off heavy Lore Olympus vibes (she's a 20-something college student and everything!) but then has the competition trope that we find in books like Hunger Games and The Selection. The writing, however, is flat, rushed, and juvenile at best.
Persephone, our heroine, is dim and unlikeable who complains and curses so much it's the only facet of her personality other than the fact that she likes fresh air and gardening. Seriously, that's it. It comes up so many times that the only thing that makes her Persephone is that she likes to garden. She, like all the other characters, lack depth and she definitely seems like a Mary Sue self-insert character.
The book itself is plot-driven and everything happens to Persephone and around her but she is completely clueless the entire time. When she tries to find out what has happened (because she has been reduced from a goddess to a human young woman with amnesia) she is met with brick wall after brick wall of "I can't tell you". It gets tiring very quickly and even the trials that are supposed to move the plot forward and get Persephone closer to discovering what happened and who she is seem easy and lack tension or weight.
This story has the potential to be great, but unfortunately the writing is just very terrible and after I finished the first book out of three, I realized it wouldn't get any better. Would not recommend wasting your time on this.
January 5, 2024
Of all the members of the Greek pantheon, Hades and Persephone are my favorite. Eliza Raine's The Hades Trails will not disappoint the Hades and Persephone fans out there. This fast-paced trilogy will leave readers on the edge of their seats, rooting for the main characters to find their way back to each other. It's a slow-burn read that leads to some spicy scenes. Miss Raine's deep knowledge of mythology, humor, and ample character development make this trilogy a fantastic read.
Persy, having been sent to Earth 25 years ago, once more finds herself back on Olympus, thanks to a surprise encounter with Zeus. Even more surprising is finding that she is in a death match for the hand of her husband, Hades. Fighting monsters, a fear of heights, other Olympians vying for Hades, and her lack of memory, Persy must find her way through the trials or die trying. With the help of her faithful side kicks that come in the form of Hectate (goddess of necromancy) and Skop (a randy gnome/dog), Persy sets out to keep herself alive and, in the process, begins to regain her powers. Unfortunately, a greater threat emerges from the darkness, a threat that could tear apart the fragile bond that Persy and Hades are starting to form.
Hades has never stopped loving Persephone nor forgotten why she left Olympus. Watching Persy fight her way through the trails is horrific for Hades. When a greater force than the trials threatens Persephone, Hades will destroy anyone in his path to keep his wife safe. However, it will take the combined forces of the King and the Queen of the Dead to keep Olympus safe from what dwells in the darkness.
The Hades Trials is a slow-burn read with spicy scenes, no cheating, and a HEA.
Persy, having been sent to Earth 25 years ago, once more finds herself back on Olympus, thanks to a surprise encounter with Zeus. Even more surprising is finding that she is in a death match for the hand of her husband, Hades. Fighting monsters, a fear of heights, other Olympians vying for Hades, and her lack of memory, Persy must find her way through the trials or die trying. With the help of her faithful side kicks that come in the form of Hectate (goddess of necromancy) and Skop (a randy gnome/dog), Persy sets out to keep herself alive and, in the process, begins to regain her powers. Unfortunately, a greater threat emerges from the darkness, a threat that could tear apart the fragile bond that Persy and Hades are starting to form.
Hades has never stopped loving Persephone nor forgotten why she left Olympus. Watching Persy fight her way through the trails is horrific for Hades. When a greater force than the trials threatens Persephone, Hades will destroy anyone in his path to keep his wife safe. However, it will take the combined forces of the King and the Queen of the Dead to keep Olympus safe from what dwells in the darkness.
The Hades Trials is a slow-burn read with spicy scenes, no cheating, and a HEA.
January 20, 2023
Loved. It.
This book has some very minor "flaws" (if you can even call them flaws), but it checked all the boxes for me personally.
1 - Great Love Story. It started out the way most of my favourite (fictional) love stories do, with people who can barely stand each other. This progresses into an understanding between people, to a mild friendship, to an intense sexual chemisty, to a genuine love between two people. Obviously, this isn't practical in real life but it sure makes for a great book. This Author also avoided the biggest mistake, in my opinion, with this love story approach by managing to still make this love believable and genuine instead of forced and rushed. Also, those "steamy" scenes definitely delivered.
2 - Greek Gods (and Greek Mythology in general. I loved Greek Myths so much growing up that I minored in the subject at University (My major was Biochemistry so figure that combination out lol). As someone who has quite the background on the subject, it was well researched and well executed (with some modern liberties of course) by the Author. A+.
3 - Exciting Plot. This one was a page turner. I definitely found myself doing the classic "just one more chapter" before bed (which of course is never JUST one more chapter). The plot felt a little rushed as the end, but overall the build to the surprise twist and resolution was very well done.
This was the first trilogy I have read by the Author and have already ordered the next two on Amazon. Highly recommend.
This book has some very minor "flaws" (if you can even call them flaws), but it checked all the boxes for me personally.
1 - Great Love Story. It started out the way most of my favourite (fictional) love stories do, with people who can barely stand each other. This progresses into an understanding between people, to a mild friendship, to an intense sexual chemisty, to a genuine love between two people. Obviously, this isn't practical in real life but it sure makes for a great book. This Author also avoided the biggest mistake, in my opinion, with this love story approach by managing to still make this love believable and genuine instead of forced and rushed. Also, those "steamy" scenes definitely delivered.
2 - Greek Gods (and Greek Mythology in general. I loved Greek Myths so much growing up that I minored in the subject at University (My major was Biochemistry so figure that combination out lol). As someone who has quite the background on the subject, it was well researched and well executed (with some modern liberties of course) by the Author. A+.
3 - Exciting Plot. This one was a page turner. I definitely found myself doing the classic "just one more chapter" before bed (which of course is never JUST one more chapter). The plot felt a little rushed as the end, but overall the build to the surprise twist and resolution was very well done.
This was the first trilogy I have read by the Author and have already ordered the next two on Amazon. Highly recommend.
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