bumblebookhoarder 's review for:

The Maiden & The Unseen by Jeanette Rose, Alexis Rune

4.0

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The Maiden and the Unseen by Jeanette Rose and Alexis Rune is an electrifying modern retelling of the classic Hades and Persephone myth, infused with the steam and drama of a billionaire office romance. Told from dual perspectives, the story takes us on a rollercoaster ride as Persephone, after discovering her bank accounts drained, confronts Hades, the god managing the finances of all other gods. What follows is a fiery office romance that will leave readers breathless.

The novel cleverly intertwines the fated mates trope with the idea that Persephone is the true ruler of the Underworld, a theme that has become a favorite in recent retellings. The dynamic between Hades, with his shadow magic, and Persephone, with her vine magic, is both playful and intense, adding a supernatural layer to their budding romance.

From the moment they meet, there’s an undeniable chemistry between them. Hades is initially terrified of the prophecy surrounding Persephone, the Goddess of Spring, while Persephone herself is torn between her casual relationship with another man and her irresistible attraction to Hades. This tension, coupled with the taboo of their boss-employee relationship, ramps up the spice factor, making their office trysts nothing short of scorching.

One of the standout features of this book is the humor, particularly in Hades' inner dialogue. His self-deprecating "Hades, God of (insert ridiculous title here)" bits are hilarious, and his shadow hands add an unexpected but thrilling element to their interactions. Despite the humor, there's a depth to Hades' character as he grapples with the secrets he must keep from Persephone, which clearly torments him.

While the book is packed with heat and humor, it also leaves readers hanging with a cliffhanger that promises even more wild twists in the future. Although characters like Helios and Mellie make a strong impression, their absence in the latter half is noticeable, leaving fans eagerly anticipating a potential spin-off or follow-up.

Overall, The Maiden and the Unseen is a must-read for fans of Greek mythology who enjoy their stories with a generous dose of spice. The chemistry between Hades and Persephone is off the charts, making this one of the most captivating retellings out there. With a solid plot, quick-paced chapters, and a cliffhanger that leaves you craving more, this book is a delightful addition to the Hades and Persephone lore. Four stars for the story and an extra nod for the spice level that truly sizzles!