While there a lot of things I liked about this book, I found it just wasn't for me. There is nothing wrong with the book, it's more that it's my personal taste.

this book slaps, The plot was amazing and the trials were different from the other trials we see in most books and it's like a breath of fresh air.

Thank you Simon Teen for the gifted eARC. This book was cute. I enjoyed the concept over all. I do wish there was more in some areas. Specifically the trials. And the romance aspect felt like a back seat. Curious to see how the final book is but good read.

Thank you netgalley and simoneteen for the arc! All thoughts are my own. Seth.. absolutely loved him so much. I was happy to see willow growth while still not taking up for others and herself. I loved the descriptions and details of the "underworld" and I'm still not over the ending!

Willow stumbles off the mortal realm and right into the delicious forearms of the king of hell. Adamant that she shouldn't be dead, Willow strikes a deal with King Sath: He'll revive her and send her back to Earth if she completes seven tasks, corresponded to each of the seven sins. But as Willow explores Asphodel (and Sath), she starts wondering if she even wants to return to a distant boyfriend and questionable best friend.
This book is definitely geared towards Upper YA, or even adult. The character development was nicely wrapped and fits inside YA, but the romance felt a little too mature to be YA. Willow is 21, and Sath is 26 (plus 200). There are one and a half open-door scenes (kinda? Somewhat vague, but if it looks like a duck and talks like a duck...). However, this isn't a romance built on lust (though that is one of the trials). I really loved the friendship and emotional connection they built first. I'm a sucker for royal romances, especially when he's on his throne but he can't stop looking at her. Playing board games? My vice. Definitely checks off all my romance boxes.
The plot was pretty filling meal too. I loved exploring Asphodel with Willow, returning back to Earth to see what her old life has become, and watching her go through the trials. She's a relatable character, funny and strong while utterly unable to behave, and I honestly love her for that. She's not perfect, and she has to own up to it. I kinda wish we had a bit more backstory on Sath, though. He was a fascinating character, but I can't help finding him bland, just another dark, ripped, powerful male lead. He can seem very distant at times, just showing up to see Willow, yet we don't explore much of his other facets. He's still hot, though, in a multitude of ways.