As a newcomer to the series, I found myself diving into the second book without the context of the first, which may have been my oversight. The story picks up with Hades imprisoned in his memories, leaving Persephone unaware of his whereabouts. While the emotional connection between Hades and Persephone is evident, I struggled with the portrayal of their spiritual presence and locations, feeling that clearer rules regarding their abilities to vanish and materialize would have enhanced my understanding.

I found myself encountering repetitive occurrences throughout the narrative, which seemed to serve only to prolong the story rather than deepen its complexity. While the simplicity of the writing style was accessible, I occasionally found it to be fatiguing.

Despite these challenges, I persevered through the book, driven by my curiosity about how the story would ultimately unfold. I appreciate the opportunity to have experienced this installment and look forward to potentially gaining a clearer understanding of the series by revisiting its beginnings

So let me just say this book was phenomenal and was extremely hard to put down. I did not want the story to end it was that good and addicting to read.

Hades is missing after he sends Persephone to the Underworld. But everything is not what it seems in the Underworld. It's breaking apart at it's seams. Can Hades and Persphone's love save the Underworld?

The writing style is pretty similar to the first book. The writing is mature, though I think it's defiantly more mature than the first book in certain places. I really enjoyed the discussions about trauma that were talked about in the book. The sex scenes were defiantly more described than the first book.

In this book, we got a lot more depth to the two main characters. The trauma that they went through actually made them more respectful of themselves and each other. I really liked how it seemed like Hades was trying to let Persephone make her own decisions which shows real growth from his character in the first book. We really don't see much of other characters in this book so I can't say much about them.

I did think that the plot was kind of everywhere in this novel. I can't go into it much without spoiling it but it seemed like this book contained plot points for about two or three books all smooshed into one. I think if the book was longer or split up it would be much better but as it stands, it was a little confusing.

The powers were much more explained in this book. It made much more sense to me despite the fact that the castle seems like a living thing with no explanation. Other than that, the powers made much more sense. Especially with the back story that we get.

Though one thing I wasn't a huge fan of was the large chapters of italics. It was just slightly hard for me to read and my eyes kept glazing over. I don't think it was a bad thing, especially since most of those chapters seemed fairly short but just something to keep in mind.

Overall, I liked this book much better than the first one and I am excited to finish the trilogy.

A Hades and Persephone retelling but with a spin.
I am going to go into this review stating that I enjoyed the first installment of this book more than I did this one. The miscommunication trope just went on for far longer than it needed to be.
Overall, I enjoyed the teas but I had higher hopes for the second book.

Thank you to Netgalley the Publisher, of Rose and Star Publishing, LLC, and the authors Alexis Rune, and Jeanette Rose for providing and allowing me to review this book. Which, I'm giving my honest and sincere review.

"The Mistress & The Renowned" the second book in the Love and Fate series, and let me tell you, it's an absolute treasure!

I Love retellings and I love Hades and Persephone retellings, this book immediately caught my attention, and I'm thrilled to say it exceeded all my expectations. Jeanette Rose & Alexis Rune have masterfully crafted a tale that breathes new life into the timeless myth, with writing that is both enchanting and enthralling.

The story picks up with Hades, the God of the Dead, ensnared and stripped of his power, fighting to cling to his remaining essence. Meanwhile, Persephone unexpectedly finds herself thrust into the role of Queen of the Dead, a position she never desired nor consented to. Their intertwined destinies unfold amidst a backdrop of nightmares and looming fate, creating a narrative that is as haunting as it is captivating.

What truly sets this book apart is the author's skill in creating a sense of urgency and tension, drawing readers deeper into the unfolding drama with every twist and turn. Themes of destiny and fate reverberate throughout the story, highlighting the inevitable bond between Hades and Persephone.

In conclusion, "The Mistress & The Renowned" is a must-read for anyone who loves Hades and Persephone retellings. With its gripping plot, well-developed characters, and beautifully crafted prose, this book is sure to leave a lasting impression. I eagerly anticipate the next installment in the Love and Fate series, eager to continue the journey alongside these captivating characters.

In conclusion, "The Mistress & The Renowned" is a must-read for anyone who loves Hades and Persephone retellings. With its gripping plot, well-developed characters, and beautifully crafted prose, this book is sure to leave a lasting impression. I eagerly anticipate the next installment in the Love and Fate series, eager to continue the journey alongside these captivating characters.

I enjoyed this, truly. I cannot wait for others to read!! I found that I highlighted a ton, which is a good thing for me!.
It was fast paced, engrossing, and I instantly fell in love with the characters and their world. An absolutely beautiful story.. Thank you so much for the read!!

The Mistress & The Renowned is the second book in the Love and Fate series, a Hades and Persephone retelling. This book starts with Hades being pulled away from Persephone as she just is transported to the Underworld for the first time as the new queen (which she still doesn't understand). She can't find Hades and when she does find out what has happened to him, watch out as she will find him (even though she complains about how mad she is at him). Since I received all three books from NetGalley I felt like I needed to read all three books. If I wasn't given this to review I probably would have DNF's after the first one and not read this or the third book. My main problem was most of the issues between the FMC and MMC were due to miscommunication and the FMC attitude of hating how people treated her then treating others the exact same way. 2.5 rounded up to a 3.

Once again Jeanette and Alexis' writing captivated me from the beginning and held my attention the whole time. I found myself wanting more and more. And it's been quite sometime since I've felt this way. I'm so excited for when book three is written and released. I need to know everything and truly this is my favorite Hades and Persphone retelling. I'm obsessed with these characters. Congratulations! And I can't wait for what you have in store for us.

I absolutely love Hades/Personephone retellings and this one definitely is one of my favourites now! I hadn't read anything by these authors before but I will definitely keep my eye out for more!

I had no idea when receiving this arc that it was book 2 in the series. I read the first book and then came back to read this arc.

What a great hades x persephone retelling. It is dark and twisted and slightly unhinged which is everything I expect it to be given it is a retelling of the literal god of death. The story was gripping and exciting. It was also left on a big cliffhanger which literally left me shocked.

My only quip was that the miscommunication got really frustrating really quickly. I found myself skipping pages at times because some of their conversations about some problems were so repetitive. The spice in this book was okay in terms of writing, I felt it was written a little bit better in book 1 though.

Whew, we live through the after effects of that cliffhanger for a while. Book 2 had a very different feel, but it had to be based on events. I liked the introduction of an animal sidekick 👀 and more time with Mellie!

Let's see where this goes!

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an eARC of this book for an honest review.

This series takes a fun spin on those classic Greek myths, especially the Hades x Persephone angle. The first book set things up nicely, and this sequel jumps right into the action, with Persephone doing her thing in the Underworld while Hades is MIA. It's cool to see the gods getting along better than usual, but Demeter's still causing drama.

My only gripe? Persephone's kinda the source of her own drama because she won't talk things out. But hey, Hades steps up, showing his softer side and trying to be a good partner and king. There are some sweet moments amidst the chaos, but Persephone's sudden fighting skills without any training? Not buying it.

Also, can't they catch a break? Every time things start looking up, something else messes it up. And that cliffhanger? Classic move, but Persephone seriously needs to work on her communication skills for the next book.

*ARC received from Netgalley - all opinions are my own*

TLDR: If you enjoyed the first book then you’ll like The Mistress and the Renowned, if not, this will definitely be a miss for you. Constant conflict wasn’t fun for me to read about and didn’t feel like there was as much spice in this instalment to make up for it.

I had really hoped that Hades and Persephone could have grown a bit more as a couple and individuals a lot more in this one. We had a lot of the same issues of miscommunication and immaturity, which feels so frustrating with Hades given his age, experience, prior reputation. Even he points out that the way he is feeling and acting is bizarre and out of character.

Pretty much the entire book, right until the end, is the main characters in a fight or pausing said fight to quickly have sex or to rescue/ fight someone (no spoilers). When we get an inch of adult conversation and working through issues, it falls apart almost instantly (sometimes on the same page). Unfortunately this makes for an incredibly depressing and frustrating read as it’s difficult to read about constant conflict, especially when it's supposed to be a “spicy greek romantasy”.

There are strong themes and talk of trauma from the middle to end, with some parts written so well. How Hades feels/ acts and subsequently deals with his trauma feels very true and realistic and those scenes are probably the ones I enjoyed the writing and imagery of the most.
Persephone on the other hand, I feel shows an equally real depiction of trauma but one that is very difficult to feel empathy for. Persephone constantly, imo, diminishes the thoughts and feelings of Hades’ and almost downplays the horrific things he experienced for so long and how he is trying to put himself back together. It feels very “me, me , me" and uncaring of her, especially when you look at both experiences side by side.

Realistically, I probably shouldn’t have continued with the series after not liking the first book but I am an absolute sucker for Greek myths and who doesn’t love a HadesxPersephone retelling! Unfortunately this one just didn’t hit with me and I’ll not bother reading the last in the series.
However, if you liked the first one and didn’t mind the constant fight, make up, fight, makeup trope then you’ll enjoy this one as well. Just note that I felt like the tension and spice in the first book was far better than in this one so maybe read some other opinions if you’re reading mainly for the spice and I don’t think it’s as good in that area!

**Will add Amazon review link once live**

I love this series so much.
I love the modern vibes in a Hades and Persephone story.
He does seem to be a lot more whiney in this book, but P puts him in his place quite a few times, and I absolutely adoreeee that.
The banter is on point as it was in the first book.
So freaking funny and cute at the same time.
Plus, there is a puppy. And that makes any story perfect. I don’t make the rules 🤷🏻‍♀️
The story was easy to follow and fun to read.
I read it all in 2 days, I just couldn’t put it down.
Major cliff hanger at the end killed me. Lol I can’t wait for the next one!

~ Book 2 of the series ~

I must admit, I much preferred book 2 over book 1. I felt that there was more of a storyline, and we learned even more about Hades and Persephone's backgrounds, I especially enjoyed reading and discovering what the Underworld was like to live in, and how the magic and powers worked there.
Special shout out to the adorable Berry! (iykyk)

Don't worry smut lovers, there was still a few good scenes ;) but I felt that they were more enjoyable this time, as the storyline developed, and the relationship between Hades and Persephone grew.
Also, that cliffhanger!!

I really was praying to the God's that book 2 would drastically better. I was reluctant to pick up the Mistress & The Renowned because of the writing style and just bland/immature characters from book 1 and it seems it carried onto book 2. The plot is subpar and unfortunately the overall feel of the book felt depressing. I am all for some well written angst and miscommunication but at some point I just wanted to yell at them to get it together.

I enjoyed how Hades is an Alpha male with feelings and even tears at some point but the writing just felt choppy and the cursing was unnecessary it didn't add anything to the plot or even the overall emotion or tone.

||: “Shhh, he's my baby,” I whisper, feigning outrage. Hades raised a brow, his gaze trailing to my lips. I lick my bottom lip. “My husband. My love. My demon. My King.”
“And I come before the dog.” He growls.
Unbelievable he can't possibly be jealous of a dog. His god, no less. I cup his cheek. “You come before everyone and everything, my fated.”
Hades growls again, his eyes black. He dig his fingers harder into my thigh and slams his lips to mine, kissing me desperately. I moan into his mouth, his kiss dizzying.
“My Fate.” Hades murmurs against my lips before he deepens the kiss, his tongue flicking mine, his hands pulling me tighter into him. :||

The King and Queen in the underworld are introduced to us in this book, their love for each other evident in every page, we shadow their movements as they battle through adversaries raged by a powerful enemy which coils them in problems not once but twice proving a maternal love is the strongest to break. They maintain their love for each other and we are treated to an indepth look of Hades' past. It's a shame there weren't flashbacks for Persophne to tie them both to similar feelings as they are mostly trying to mirror each other during the book.

Although I enjoyed this beautiful love story, I didn't understand enough what happened in the first book to know what the couple had been through or why they were in the predicament they found themselves in.

The writing of both characters were amazing but I must admit the fact that similar sentences, feelings and motions were described for each character didn't persuade me they were mirrored or entwined.. it made it seem more Disney than desirably evil.

It also seemed such a small part of the story for what actually happened and how they progressed in one book. I felt more could have been added without compromising the ideas for the next part of the story.

Also the C word used for the female private area completely put me off the whole thing. It was crude and took away from the beautiful writing around It.

There was almost too much love for a Hades and Persephone story, however. The thought of the King of the underworld crawling around for a girl, no matter how in love or powerful she is, was disturbing but it made me want to read the next book to see how the story ends. Even though I didn't think I would be. I am invested now!

Thank you to Alexis Rune and Jeanette Rose, Rose and Star publishers for the advanced copy of The Mistress and the Rebound. Thank you also to Netgalley for providing the platform to do it, in return for honest voluntary feedback x

3.5/5

This sequel gives us a lot more plot when compared to the first book!

This book picks up right after the events of the first book, but now Persephone is in the Underworld. And without Hades. But within their relationship there is definitely a good amount of miscommunication, so if that’s not something you like, be warned. I did really like how human Hades and Persephone were when it came to dealing with emotions and issues, I feel like you don’t often see that in stories of gods and immortal, powerful beings.

Hades and Persephone are fated and yet Demeter is being a garbage and obnoxious person (she was made so easy to hate and I think that’s so fantastic) who thinks that she can change fate.

I really appreciated all of the backstory and background there was on Hades. This book shows a lot of his childhood and what he’s gone through. And we get to see a much different family dynamic (between Hades, Poseidon, and Zeus) than I feel like you’d usually see in a Greek retelling.

And we get to meet Cerberus! We love a good doggo.

And there is a cliffhanger ending with some ambiguous language. So I am both intrigued and frightened.

Thanks to NetGalley for the ebook!

Thanks to Netgalley, the publisher, and author for the copy of this eARC in exchange for an honest review.

The sequel tried to switch things up from the first book, aiming for deeper character development and a more involved plot, which was a good idea, given that this is a series and not a standalone. However, this new direction didn't quite deliver as expected.

The plot was kind of predictable and didn’t have enough going on to really pull me in. Similarly, the character development struggled to resonate. We were meant to empathize with the characters' struggles, yet the narrative fell short in providing the detailed context needed to forge genuine connections.

Also, the book leaned a bit too much on the whole miscommunication trope to keep the story moving, which felt a bit lazy. I missed the fun, easygoing vibe of the first book. Plus, the mix of the new serious tone and the amount of spice just didn’t work out well.

Overall, it felt like the sequel was trying to be something totally different but didn’t quite manage to pull it off. I definitely missed the charm of the first one and will read the next to finish the series, and hopefully we will see some improvements.