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nikimorr 's review for:
A Touch of Darkness
by Scarlett St. Clair
adventurous
dark
emotional
funny
hopeful
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
If you are interested in an authentic Greek mythology retelling, this book is not for you. However, if you want quick-paced plot, tension and romance, and a splash of mystery, this is absolutely the story for you.
Persephone, goddess of spring, has lived her life in the control of her mother, Demeter. Although a goddess, she believes she possesses no magic, and instead hides amongst mortals, trying to live a quiet life finishing college and becoming an investigative journalist. It all goes awry when she accidentally makes a bargain with Hades, lord of the underworld, and her freedom is at stake. While trying to win their bet, she begins to fall in love with Hades - a god who is holding her to a bargain she fears she may never be able to fulfill, and who, by all accounts, is a terrible being (but very attractive).
Is this story filled with riveting details and complex plot? Absolutely not. Has it still earned all 5 stars? Absolutely. I was engaged in this book from start to finish. It is written in 3rd person (which I typically hate), but it did not phase me at all. I stayed wanting to know what happens with the bargain, with Persephone and Hades’ growing relationship, and with all the other issues along the way. All the characters are extremely likable (sans Adonis) while still being morally gray and complex. There was a decent amount of spice towards the second half of the book, but there is always a plot. Morally gray, enemies to lovers, ruthless except to her, fated mates - it has all the best tropes. Obsessed, and cannot wait to read the rest of this series.
Minthe the mint plant is iconic.
Persephone, goddess of spring, has lived her life in the control of her mother, Demeter. Although a goddess, she believes she possesses no magic, and instead hides amongst mortals, trying to live a quiet life finishing college and becoming an investigative journalist. It all goes awry when she accidentally makes a bargain with Hades, lord of the underworld, and her freedom is at stake. While trying to win their bet, she begins to fall in love with Hades - a god who is holding her to a bargain she fears she may never be able to fulfill, and who, by all accounts, is a terrible being (but very attractive).
Is this story filled with riveting details and complex plot? Absolutely not. Has it still earned all 5 stars? Absolutely. I was engaged in this book from start to finish. It is written in 3rd person (which I typically hate), but it did not phase me at all. I stayed wanting to know what happens with the bargain, with Persephone and Hades’ growing relationship, and with all the other issues along the way. All the characters are extremely likable (sans Adonis) while still being morally gray and complex. There was a decent amount of spice towards the second half of the book, but there is always a plot. Morally gray, enemies to lovers, ruthless except to her, fated mates - it has all the best tropes. Obsessed, and cannot wait to read the rest of this series.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual content
Moderate: Emotional abuse, Sexual assault, Gaslighting