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Seeds #1
Seeds Volume One
Longing. Need. Desire. Hades, the Lord of the Underworld, has never felt any of these in his long life until a chance encounter with the Goddess of Spring. For as long as she can remember, Persephone has always been told what to do, her life dictated by people who believe they know what is best for her without taking the time to understand or listen to her. However, the opportunity to truly be herself awaits her in the most unlikely of places, sparking one of the most famous and enduring relationships that history has ever known...
420 pages, Paperback
First published March 1, 2013
76 people are currently reading
4160 people want to read
About the author
M.M. Kin
7 books115 followersM.M. Kin has been interested in history and mythology since she was young and has been an avid reader for as long as she can remember. As with many other readers (and authors) books were, and are still a refuge.
Her other interests include hiking, kayaking, and world domination. Her favorite genres are historical fiction and science fiction, but she also enjoys pretty much any genre of book!
So far, she has published five books - the Seeds trilogy, Worthy of Love, and Khthonios. She is currently at work on her sixth mythology book, Tapestry, as well as her first fantasy book, Moonshadows.
Future projects will include more of the above as well as science fiction and horror, and hopefully, a family saga. So much to do, so little time...
Amazon - https://www.amazon.com/M.M.-Kin/e/B00...
Smashwords - https://www.smashwords.com/profile/vi...
FB - https://www.facebook.com/mmkinauthor/
Tumblr - https://mmkin.tumblr.com/
o0o
Yes, I review books! I enjoy reading books by first-time and indie authors, especially. I have a separate account for my reviews here... https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/1...
Because I was using that account before this one (and reviewing books even before I joined this site) i have chosen to keep the bulk of my activity on that profile (Quizzes, reviews, and comments) so that is why this profile looks pretty empty in comparison. I just didn't want to change my reviewer name because I've been using Strawberry for over a decade now and I REALLY like strawberries, lol.
I will keep all author-related information to this profile, but if you want to see my reviews and have more interaction with me, head on over to my other account as I log into that one much more frequently.
Yes, I do cross-promotions with other authors, PM me or e-mail me at ememkin at gmail dot com.
Her other interests include hiking, kayaking, and world domination. Her favorite genres are historical fiction and science fiction, but she also enjoys pretty much any genre of book!
So far, she has published five books - the Seeds trilogy, Worthy of Love, and Khthonios. She is currently at work on her sixth mythology book, Tapestry, as well as her first fantasy book, Moonshadows.
Future projects will include more of the above as well as science fiction and horror, and hopefully, a family saga. So much to do, so little time...
Amazon - https://www.amazon.com/M.M.-Kin/e/B00...
Smashwords - https://www.smashwords.com/profile/vi...
FB - https://www.facebook.com/mmkinauthor/
Tumblr - https://mmkin.tumblr.com/
o0o
Yes, I review books! I enjoy reading books by first-time and indie authors, especially. I have a separate account for my reviews here... https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/1...
Because I was using that account before this one (and reviewing books even before I joined this site) i have chosen to keep the bulk of my activity on that profile (Quizzes, reviews, and comments) so that is why this profile looks pretty empty in comparison. I just didn't want to change my reviewer name because I've been using Strawberry for over a decade now and I REALLY like strawberries, lol.
I will keep all author-related information to this profile, but if you want to see my reviews and have more interaction with me, head on over to my other account as I log into that one much more frequently.
Yes, I do cross-promotions with other authors, PM me or e-mail me at ememkin at gmail dot com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 112 reviews
May 4, 2023
This book is so terribly written that I've had to create three new shelves just for it:
Pretentious claims to good research
Because M. M. Kin seems so obviously to be one of those authors who think that reading a few books here and there makes them knowledgeable and an expert on a subject or time period, yet that the writing, the plotting, the lack of respect for the subject/period as well as the questionable choices quickly unveil as shallow knowledge at best.
I could give several examples, but I'll focus on just a couple of examples: one, the choice of changing the Greek name of Persephone from Kore to Kora with the rationale that it just means a girl/maiden in Greek, so it obliterates a girl's individuality to be called Girl whereas calling her Kora makes her more of a "person."
I couldn't help but burst out laughing hysterically at this "logic." Does the author even realise that changing it to Kora not only negates the Greek origins but also doesn't make the slightest sense since Kora is a Latinised version as well as a name that didn't come into use until millennia after Classical Greece was long in the past? It makes as much sense as if I were writing a novel set in Rome and my chosen protagonist was originally called Quintus, but since in Latin it just means "fifth" and I believe it obliterates my hero's individuality to be called The Fifth (Son), then I best call him Quincy. Yeehaw! What? Quincy is the English version and a name that didn't exist in Rome two thousand years ago? Never mind, it stays because I say so.
Notice the absurdity now?
Secondly, you know how some claim to do strenuous and thorough research, they investigate even whether the buttons in clothes back then were of bone, ivory or metal and research the pattern of the embroidery on court dresses, what breed of horses pulled carriages, what went on stew back then and the procedure for teeth extraction at the time? All those small details they so lovingly investigate and often tout and brag about to everyone so they get pats on the back for Doing So Much Research. So eager for "earning brownie points" as my American friends would say, as if touting the horn on research automatically meant quality.
And so, the cloth details are on point, the food is period-accurate, the horses are just as the times demanded, houses as well. All small details perfect, they think . . . And then . . . the characters open their mouth. Surprise! The speech is anachronistic or unfit for the social class or profession of the character, full of idioms or accents that don't belong there. And more surprise! The beliefs, ideologies, morals, attitudes, behaviours that the speech makes known are just as inappropriate to the period or the character's status and occupation.
That's exactly how the impression of people in period costume instead of real people that might've lived back then happens. Hades & Persephone are hit hard by this faux pas and, as my friend Nymeria put it in her review of this same book, they are "immortal gods [that] talk like American teenagers." So much for the alleged research, only to spoil all by never caring to moderate language and attitude to neutral/standard non-idiomatic English.
This is why not to publish fanfiction
Some amateur scribblers in niche fandoms become popular through penning stories that appeal to said niche fandom's particular tastes and kinks, and this popularity goes to their head, convincing them they can make it to the Major Novel League. So they decide to publish their scribblings, or are offered a deal by shrewd editorials that smell the scent of money in the air, and come to believe they'll appeal to the larger readership just as they did their niche fandom despite them not caring so much about those tastes/kinks and sometimes being more critical.
Yes, there are a few true talents in the fanfiction communities. But extremely few. And all of them invariably write for love of their topic/character more than anything, and that investment translates into a care for characterisation, good writing, decent self-edition. All the things that this novel lacks. It's written, plotted and edited quite poorly even for self-published standards.
Make up for lack of plot with sex
Ah, the old reliable Sex Sells resource. It's plainly self-explanatory: if you don't know how to fill in blank chapters or have no idea where the story is going next, insert a sex scene and all is good. M. M. Kin makes liberal use of this technique, to the point one wonders what the plot is supposed to be here. The No-No-Yes-Yes trope that rules the pairing's interactions doesn't help either.
Unfortunately, Hades & Persephone is one of those stories that, due to the nature of the legend as well as owing to the dubious sexual elements, attracts kink aficionados and smut-loving crowds. I've never found one single bloody retelling of this myth that didn't include lurid sex scenes. And as someone with a genuine interest in Greco-Roman lore, that's painful. Frankly, by now I am convinced reworking Hades & Persphone is merely an excuse for writers to set their erotic fantasies free. What a pity!
ETA: So readers know, the user M. M. Strawberry, who's rated this 5 stars and has the habit of dropping comments on negative reviews of this book (including mine), is none other than M. M. Kin, the author. Her fanfiction.net page states it's her Goodreads account.
Pretentious claims to good research
Because M. M. Kin seems so obviously to be one of those authors who think that reading a few books here and there makes them knowledgeable and an expert on a subject or time period, yet that the writing, the plotting, the lack of respect for the subject/period as well as the questionable choices quickly unveil as shallow knowledge at best.
I could give several examples, but I'll focus on just a couple of examples: one, the choice of changing the Greek name of Persephone from Kore to Kora with the rationale that it just means a girl/maiden in Greek, so it obliterates a girl's individuality to be called Girl whereas calling her Kora makes her more of a "person."
I couldn't help but burst out laughing hysterically at this "logic." Does the author even realise that changing it to Kora not only negates the Greek origins but also doesn't make the slightest sense since Kora is a Latinised version as well as a name that didn't come into use until millennia after Classical Greece was long in the past? It makes as much sense as if I were writing a novel set in Rome and my chosen protagonist was originally called Quintus, but since in Latin it just means "fifth" and I believe it obliterates my hero's individuality to be called The Fifth (Son), then I best call him Quincy. Yeehaw! What? Quincy is the English version and a name that didn't exist in Rome two thousand years ago? Never mind, it stays because I say so.
Notice the absurdity now?
Secondly, you know how some claim to do strenuous and thorough research, they investigate even whether the buttons in clothes back then were of bone, ivory or metal and research the pattern of the embroidery on court dresses, what breed of horses pulled carriages, what went on stew back then and the procedure for teeth extraction at the time? All those small details they so lovingly investigate and often tout and brag about to everyone so they get pats on the back for Doing So Much Research. So eager for "earning brownie points" as my American friends would say, as if touting the horn on research automatically meant quality.
And so, the cloth details are on point, the food is period-accurate, the horses are just as the times demanded, houses as well. All small details perfect, they think . . . And then . . . the characters open their mouth. Surprise! The speech is anachronistic or unfit for the social class or profession of the character, full of idioms or accents that don't belong there. And more surprise! The beliefs, ideologies, morals, attitudes, behaviours that the speech makes known are just as inappropriate to the period or the character's status and occupation.
That's exactly how the impression of people in period costume instead of real people that might've lived back then happens. Hades & Persephone are hit hard by this faux pas and, as my friend Nymeria put it in her review of this same book, they are "immortal gods [that] talk like American teenagers." So much for the alleged research, only to spoil all by never caring to moderate language and attitude to neutral/standard non-idiomatic English.
This is why not to publish fanfiction
Some amateur scribblers in niche fandoms become popular through penning stories that appeal to said niche fandom's particular tastes and kinks, and this popularity goes to their head, convincing them they can make it to the Major Novel League. So they decide to publish their scribblings, or are offered a deal by shrewd editorials that smell the scent of money in the air, and come to believe they'll appeal to the larger readership just as they did their niche fandom despite them not caring so much about those tastes/kinks and sometimes being more critical.
Yes, there are a few true talents in the fanfiction communities. But extremely few. And all of them invariably write for love of their topic/character more than anything, and that investment translates into a care for characterisation, good writing, decent self-edition. All the things that this novel lacks. It's written, plotted and edited quite poorly even for self-published standards.
Make up for lack of plot with sex
Ah, the old reliable Sex Sells resource. It's plainly self-explanatory: if you don't know how to fill in blank chapters or have no idea where the story is going next, insert a sex scene and all is good. M. M. Kin makes liberal use of this technique, to the point one wonders what the plot is supposed to be here. The No-No-Yes-Yes trope that rules the pairing's interactions doesn't help either.
Unfortunately, Hades & Persephone is one of those stories that, due to the nature of the legend as well as owing to the dubious sexual elements, attracts kink aficionados and smut-loving crowds. I've never found one single bloody retelling of this myth that didn't include lurid sex scenes. And as someone with a genuine interest in Greco-Roman lore, that's painful. Frankly, by now I am convinced reworking Hades & Persphone is merely an excuse for writers to set their erotic fantasies free. What a pity!
___________________
ETA: So readers know, the user M. M. Strawberry, who's rated this 5 stars and has the habit of dropping comments on negative reviews of this book (including mine), is none other than M. M. Kin, the author. Her fanfiction.net page states it's her Goodreads account.
June 23, 2016
Hot Mess!
The book didn't seem to know what it was, and therefore ended up being very disjointed. It kept jumping back and forth from different styles, tenses, perspectives. One minute, there is a lesson on mythology, the next minute, we are in Demeter's head, then I guess the author read a certain book because suddenly there is some weird bondage sex thing going on with Hades.
I just couldn't go on reading. DNF
The book didn't seem to know what it was, and therefore ended up being very disjointed. It kept jumping back and forth from different styles, tenses, perspectives. One minute, there is a lesson on mythology, the next minute, we are in Demeter's head, then I guess the author read a certain book because suddenly there is some weird bondage sex thing going on with Hades.
I just couldn't go on reading. DNF
September 19, 2013
I was impressed by the level of research that went into this book. As a writer who has thoroughly researched Greek mythology, it was really cool to see how someone took the same information and made it theirs. But M.M Kin took her research to a whole different level by actually setting her story in Ancient Greece.
Her setting was very well done, very real. I had a solid sense of where we were, and somehow, despite the story being set way,way long ago, the characters were still accessible. That's a tough balance. You can't drop super modern characters into a setting like that ands expect it to work, but you can't make your ancient characters too ancient without risking your modern audience. M.M Kin struck a wonderful balance between modern sensibilities, and characters that felt like they belonged in an ancient setting.
I was pleased to see Demeter's story so fleshed out. The first third of the book focused on Demeter's life and the birth of her daughter. The second third focused on Persephone's life growing up, and the last third takes place in the Underworld. I felt the story balanced well, though once we hit the Underworld the book takes a pretty significant shift to erotica land. There was still story and very well developed characters, so it wasn't like just sex scene after sex scene. M.M Kin took the time to develop the characters and the world thoroughly.
When I emailed M.M Kin she said "There's several important differences between my book and the original myth. I wanted Persephone to be less of a victim, and Hades to be less of a villain. I notice in the original myth that Zeus and Demeter are never scolded for their part in the disaster, and that people always point at Hades and say 'bad boy' for his part in the myth even though he wasn't the one who sent a famine upon Greece or gave Persephone away without her mother's knowledge or permission, so I try to address this in Seeds. I do have to warn, Seeds has some steamy scenes, so it's not for kids!"
Zeus and Demeter are definitely held accountable (or I foresee they will be in the sequels) for their parts in the Persephone myth, though I'm curious how that's going to be handled in Demeter's case. But I hope Hades isn't let off the hook either. While her Hades is less of a villain than in the original myth, he's still not a good guy. Which is why she said "less of a villain" not that he isn't one. This is still the Persephone myth, while dialed down there is still an element of bad to Hades' actions. He stalks Persephone and watches her with his helmet of invisibility. True, he doesn't DO anything to her, or watch her change or anything, but his rationale for stalking is that Demeter wouldn't have let him court Persephone. One wrong doesn't answer another. Stalking is still a major violation. And while he doesn't rape her and drag her down to the Underworld, he does still **spoiler alert**
drag her down to the Underworld, refuse to let her leave, and consistently disregards her requests for him to stop touching her all the while saying he won't do anything to her that she doesn't want him to do. If he stood by that, I would have better feelings for his character, but what he actually means is I won't do anything I don't think you don't want to do. He doesn't cross the line to sex, but he does pretty much everything else, even after being told repeatedly to stop.
Now we're in Persephone's head, so we get the fact that she doesn't actually want him to stop, and eventually she tells him so, but it's not like he backed off until she told him so. Maybe it wasn't rape, but it was still sexual assault. The reason I wouldn't recommend this book to young adults isn't simply the steamy content of the sex scenes, but the message they send that really when a girl says no, she means yes, and continuing to violate her will eventually lead to consent.
That being said, while I'm not a fan of Hades in this book, I'm a huge fan of M.M Kin's Persephone. Despite being manipulated all her life by her mother, and now by Hades, there's still a strength in this character that makes me think maybe Hades will be answering for his actions in the next book along with Demeter and Zeus.
And maybe the person they'll be answering to, is her.
Her setting was very well done, very real. I had a solid sense of where we were, and somehow, despite the story being set way,way long ago, the characters were still accessible. That's a tough balance. You can't drop super modern characters into a setting like that ands expect it to work, but you can't make your ancient characters too ancient without risking your modern audience. M.M Kin struck a wonderful balance between modern sensibilities, and characters that felt like they belonged in an ancient setting.
I was pleased to see Demeter's story so fleshed out. The first third of the book focused on Demeter's life and the birth of her daughter. The second third focused on Persephone's life growing up, and the last third takes place in the Underworld. I felt the story balanced well, though once we hit the Underworld the book takes a pretty significant shift to erotica land. There was still story and very well developed characters, so it wasn't like just sex scene after sex scene. M.M Kin took the time to develop the characters and the world thoroughly.
When I emailed M.M Kin she said "There's several important differences between my book and the original myth. I wanted Persephone to be less of a victim, and Hades to be less of a villain. I notice in the original myth that Zeus and Demeter are never scolded for their part in the disaster, and that people always point at Hades and say 'bad boy' for his part in the myth even though he wasn't the one who sent a famine upon Greece or gave Persephone away without her mother's knowledge or permission, so I try to address this in Seeds. I do have to warn, Seeds has some steamy scenes, so it's not for kids!"
Zeus and Demeter are definitely held accountable (or I foresee they will be in the sequels) for their parts in the Persephone myth, though I'm curious how that's going to be handled in Demeter's case. But I hope Hades isn't let off the hook either. While her Hades is less of a villain than in the original myth, he's still not a good guy. Which is why she said "less of a villain" not that he isn't one. This is still the Persephone myth, while dialed down there is still an element of bad to Hades' actions. He stalks Persephone and watches her with his helmet of invisibility. True, he doesn't DO anything to her, or watch her change or anything, but his rationale for stalking is that Demeter wouldn't have let him court Persephone. One wrong doesn't answer another. Stalking is still a major violation. And while he doesn't rape her and drag her down to the Underworld, he does still **spoiler alert**
drag her down to the Underworld, refuse to let her leave, and consistently disregards her requests for him to stop touching her all the while saying he won't do anything to her that she doesn't want him to do. If he stood by that, I would have better feelings for his character, but what he actually means is I won't do anything I don't think you don't want to do. He doesn't cross the line to sex, but he does pretty much everything else, even after being told repeatedly to stop.
Now we're in Persephone's head, so we get the fact that she doesn't actually want him to stop, and eventually she tells him so, but it's not like he backed off until she told him so. Maybe it wasn't rape, but it was still sexual assault. The reason I wouldn't recommend this book to young adults isn't simply the steamy content of the sex scenes, but the message they send that really when a girl says no, she means yes, and continuing to violate her will eventually lead to consent.
That being said, while I'm not a fan of Hades in this book, I'm a huge fan of M.M Kin's Persephone. Despite being manipulated all her life by her mother, and now by Hades, there's still a strength in this character that makes me think maybe Hades will be answering for his actions in the next book along with Demeter and Zeus.
And maybe the person they'll be answering to, is her.
January 9, 2018
2.5
This book was good, the writing was great and the characters weren’t really that bad. And the author obviously did her research. So why this rating? I’ve come to the conclusion that Greek mythology in its essentials is f u c k e d u p.
This book was good, the writing was great and the characters weren’t really that bad. And the author obviously did her research. So why this rating? I’ve come to the conclusion that Greek mythology in its essentials is f u c k e d u p.
March 25, 2014
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Seeds Volume One and could not put it down. If you like mythology you will as well. The author is a spectacular descriptive writer. I could picture the scenery and appearance of each character. Seeds Volume One tells the tale of budding love between Persephone and Hades. The descriptive talent of the author is not lost on Hades love and affection for Persephone. As you read the tale you will feel his desire, patience and gratification when he finally has Persephone as his own. You will feel Persephone’s struggle while she misses her home yet admires and desires her captor’s attentions. I certainly cannot wait to read volume two. Will Persephone escape the Underworld? Or, will she succumb to her captor’s will and taste of the food of the dead binding her forever to the strange place?
March 29, 2013
I have always loved the story about Hades and Persephone. So when I heard about this book I decided to give it a read and it doesn't disappoint. The story just pulls you in. It's not the same old story at all. It puts a fresh spin on this myth. It goes into detail about Persephone's childhood and Demeter's romance that leads to Persephone's birth.
The only thing that detracts from the book is that it could have been edited a little better. But the author self published so some mistakes are expected. This is only book one in the trilogy and I'm eagerly awaiting books 2 and 3. If you love this myth pick this book up.
The only thing that detracts from the book is that it could have been edited a little better. But the author self published so some mistakes are expected. This is only book one in the trilogy and I'm eagerly awaiting books 2 and 3. If you love this myth pick this book up.
February 25, 2014
A great start to a great series! I was impressed with the research of this book, and how fleshed out the character of Kora/Persephone was. I also really like the cover of this book, I wondered why it wasn't a pomegranate or something, but after reading this book I see why. Splendid!
May 26, 2013
I really really liked this book. I cannot wait for the next one. It was very well written and the detail was amazing.
September 15, 2013
I was so happy to find this again. Once read it on ff.net and then it disappeared! I would have happily bad for it from the beginning.
The story is very epic.
The story is very epic.
March 26, 2014
WTF?!?
I was going to go back and find a couple of quotes to show how attrociously written this book is but in the end I just can't find the energy or motivation. I'll just say it's the type of book in which immortal gods talk like American teenagers (and act like a cross between deranged psychos and stupid three-year-olds), making it impossible for the reader to take the story seriously. And that's the best case scenario because it might also make you want to throw the book at the wall.
There was so much potential in this Hades/Persephone retelling that was completely wasted. The idea to start by showing a bit of Demeter's life before she gave birth to Persephone was a good one. In fact, it was the best part of the book (as in the part that was the least awkwardly written). Then when Persephone is born, it's pages and pages of badly written perving on Hades's part culminating in WTF?!? badly written erotica after he kidnaps her.
This first book ended shortly after the kidnapping and a few bouts of "No, Don't! But I love you doing all these incredible things to me! No, don't!" and there's no way in hell I'm picking up the next two books.
I'll run as far away as I can and try to find myself a good Hades/Persephone retelling.
March 19, 2014
This review will be a tad harsh and may contain some spoilers. You have been warned.
I have never picked up a book that repulsed me as much as this one did. I did not finish Seeds and I will not be picking up anything by this author again. There's not much for me to say because mostly I was just disgusted by the selfish and stupid characters. One of the things that grossed me out the most was all the incest and the fact that some of the characters liked it. Here are some gifs showing my feelings throughout certain scenes and characters.
The beginning of the book
Hades instant attraction to Persephone. EVEN THOUGH SHE'S ONLY A CHILD WHEN THEY FIRST MEET! He instantly falls in love with 11 year old Persephone
Where Hades is in Persephone's room and he's touching her while she sleeps
The scene where Hermes exposes himself
The scene where Ares tries to rape Persephone and they describe his penis
Hades getting turned on when Persephone calls him uncle
The way that I see Persephone's feelings towards Hades
She fights him for her freedom, but as soon as she looks at him she is OVERCOME with lust and need and blah, blah, blah. And then she simply lets him boss her around and huffs about being treated like a child, even though her entire attitude so far has been very childish.
This is how I saw Hades' feelings towards Persephone
The first sex scene with Hades and Persephone happens very quickly after he abducts her and takes her to the Underworld. Although I am not a prude, after he got turned on by her calling him uncle I was very disturbed by everything that they did. There was also no love or anything between them to make it better. Hades pretty much tells her everything is fine and he's gonna show her great pleasure, all the while Persephone is crying and telling him to stop and that she wants to go home. Even though she was willing towards the end, the fact that she resisted him, cried, repeatedly told him she wanted to go home, and was frightened of him at the beginning is all ok because he supposedly loves her. This just repulsed me beyond belief and made me want to hurl this book as far from me as I could. This is where I lost all hope that it would get better and I stopped reading from here on out.
This is what I would have said to Hades if I were Persephone.
My overall feelings for this book?
I have never picked up a book that repulsed me as much as this one did. I did not finish Seeds and I will not be picking up anything by this author again. There's not much for me to say because mostly I was just disgusted by the selfish and stupid characters. One of the things that grossed me out the most was all the incest and the fact that some of the characters liked it. Here are some gifs showing my feelings throughout certain scenes and characters.
The beginning of the book
Hades instant attraction to Persephone. EVEN THOUGH SHE'S ONLY A CHILD WHEN THEY FIRST MEET! He instantly falls in love with 11 year old Persephone
Where Hades is in Persephone's room and he's touching her while she sleeps
The scene where Hermes exposes himself
The scene where Ares tries to rape Persephone and they describe his penis
Hades getting turned on when Persephone calls him uncle
The way that I see Persephone's feelings towards Hades
She fights him for her freedom, but as soon as she looks at him she is OVERCOME with lust and need and blah, blah, blah. And then she simply lets him boss her around and huffs about being treated like a child, even though her entire attitude so far has been very childish.
This is how I saw Hades' feelings towards Persephone
The first sex scene with Hades and Persephone happens very quickly after he abducts her and takes her to the Underworld. Although I am not a prude, after he got turned on by her calling him uncle I was very disturbed by everything that they did. There was also no love or anything between them to make it better. Hades pretty much tells her everything is fine and he's gonna show her great pleasure, all the while Persephone is crying and telling him to stop and that she wants to go home. Even though she was willing towards the end, the fact that she resisted him, cried, repeatedly told him she wanted to go home, and was frightened of him at the beginning is all ok because he supposedly loves her. This just repulsed me beyond belief and made me want to hurl this book as far from me as I could. This is where I lost all hope that it would get better and I stopped reading from here on out.
This is what I would have said to Hades if I were Persephone.
My overall feelings for this book?
December 4, 2015
4.5 stars!
June 7, 2013
This is a wonderful book, worth the read and [I think] deserves much more attention. A lot of research has been put into this book; and I applaud M.M. Kin for that. The storytelling is fantastic, very easy to follow and overall, I found this book enjoyable.
The story opens with Demeter and her relationship that leads to the birth of Persephone. It is very sweet and touching [no matter how short it was], and builds much of the character development for Persephone as the book progresses. Persephone (Kora) is portrayed nicely. Her feelings and inner-conflicts are well described as her relationship with Hades develops.
There is some erotica in this novel, nothing extensive like Fifty Shades of Grey (thank goodness). Overall an excellent read, definitively a book I can see myself re-reading in the future! Looking forward to the next books!
April 12, 2013
Beautiful....a well researched and crafted tale. It is very well told, and you understand the feelings and motivations of each character. The tale offers a new spin to Greek mythology, but not too different like "The Percy Jackson Series" (Which I am a fan of), but it is set in Ancient Greece.
You can see the care the author took in creating the world to be belivable as possible with the Gods and mortals.
Defintally, worth a check if you care for the myth of just romance in general
You can see the care the author took in creating the world to be belivable as possible with the Gods and mortals.
Defintally, worth a check if you care for the myth of just romance in general
September 11, 2016
One of the best versions of the myth I have ever read. I found it interesting that the author included the back-story of Demeter, as it helps to set up the story. I also loved the kidnapping scene - yes, I am a feminist but I found it to be really hot. I wouldn't mind being kidnapped by the Dark God ;) Overall a fantastic and well-researched story, moving on to the next one!
March 21, 2014
YES. A+. BEST STORY I HAVE READ WHILE ON MY CURRENT HADES/PERSEPHONE KICK YET. 11/10.
November 23, 2015
This is good. This is really good. I'll go on about how good this book is in a second but first... I feel like I have to explain why it was downgraded to 4 stars.
Sometimes, I had difficulty understanding some sentences. Either they were too long or really just way too complicated with way too many - in a sentence comment - if you know what I mean (I don't really know what they are called) :P In some cases, I had to read a sentence three or four times to grasp what the author meant. And I hate it when this happens. (I don’t pretend to be an all knowing dictionary, because god knows I make an awful lot of mistakes. But when I read a published novel, I expect few to none mistakes. Although, to err is human) And, at times, there were moments that seemed... a little redundant (when Kora tried desperately to convince herself that she needed to get back to the upper world)
However, the dept of the research that went behind the writing of this book makes up for all the syntax mishaps.
I loved that Kora/Persephone only gets snatched by Hades near the end of the book. It really builds up a good foundation on which to build a good story. We saw a lot of other gods. If you get into this book expecting it to be an all lovey Hades/Persephone story, you're in for a rude awakening. I LOVED the fact that you get to see other characters and sort of understand the world they are living in. I mean, I always thought it silly of Demeter to starve the Earth because her daughter married Hades.
I concede that she was taken unwillingly, and that the underworld might not be the happiest place to live in but, isn't it a behaviour a 5year old would have if their favourite toy was taken away from them? That's how I always saw it. But... by reading this book, you see where Demeter is coming from. Although I still think she is a little... drama queen and overprotective. She would totally drive me crazy if she were my mother.
To the people expecting this book to be the love story between Hades and Persephone; I would call this vol. 1 the prequel to Hades/Persephone story. It’s just that I read comments about people being disappointed with the fact that you barely get any moments between the two gods, and it frustrate me because, what was written took a lot of research and was really interesting. AND, it’s not as if the story ended there. You have two other books to this trilogy. I, for one, am expecting a awful lot of Hades/Persephone moments in vol. 2 because that is where the first book left us.
I am currently waiting for the sequel. Shipping is taking its sweet time. I am SO looking forward to reading the second instalment to this trilogy.
ps: this is another one of those books that deserve more readers/reviewers/raters that what they get. So... People. Read it already.
Sometimes, I had difficulty understanding some sentences. Either they were too long or really just way too complicated with way too many - in a sentence comment - if you know what I mean (I don't really know what they are called) :P In some cases, I had to read a sentence three or four times to grasp what the author meant. And I hate it when this happens. (I don’t pretend to be an all knowing dictionary, because god knows I make an awful lot of mistakes. But when I read a published novel, I expect few to none mistakes. Although, to err is human) And, at times, there were moments that seemed... a little redundant (when Kora tried desperately to convince herself that she needed to get back to the upper world)
However, the dept of the research that went behind the writing of this book makes up for all the syntax mishaps.
I loved that Kora/Persephone only gets snatched by Hades near the end of the book. It really builds up a good foundation on which to build a good story. We saw a lot of other gods. If you get into this book expecting it to be an all lovey Hades/Persephone story, you're in for a rude awakening. I LOVED the fact that you get to see other characters and sort of understand the world they are living in. I mean, I always thought it silly of Demeter to starve the Earth because her daughter married Hades.
I concede that she was taken unwillingly, and that the underworld might not be the happiest place to live in but, isn't it a behaviour a 5year old would have if their favourite toy was taken away from them? That's how I always saw it. But... by reading this book, you see where Demeter is coming from. Although I still think she is a little... drama queen and overprotective. She would totally drive me crazy if she were my mother.
To the people expecting this book to be the love story between Hades and Persephone; I would call this vol. 1 the prequel to Hades/Persephone story. It’s just that I read comments about people being disappointed with the fact that you barely get any moments between the two gods, and it frustrate me because, what was written took a lot of research and was really interesting. AND, it’s not as if the story ended there. You have two other books to this trilogy. I, for one, am expecting a awful lot of Hades/Persephone moments in vol. 2 because that is where the first book left us.
I am currently waiting for the sequel. Shipping is taking its sweet time. I am SO looking forward to reading the second instalment to this trilogy.
ps: this is another one of those books that deserve more readers/reviewers/raters that what they get. So... People. Read it already.
October 14, 2014
I absolutely loved…I mean LOVED this book. I love mythology - I love Hades and Persephone together and I love how this book just smashed them together and it came out HOT!
Okay, lets talk about all the research that Kin did for this book. I mean, this girl knows her crap! She took all the things that I learned from school and wove this wonderful and beautiful story around it that I will admit, out of all of the Hades and Persephone books that I have read, she made this one truly unique.
Now let me say, the first half of the book is just the background of these two characters along with other gods so you really don’t get to read much about them together during this time, but this is all essential; these are the building block chapters.
On to the story, you could tell that Hades was really fascinated with Persephone on so many different levels. There was something about her when he first met her in Zeus’ garden so much so that he continued to visit her on the hidden island while she grew up. So when he finally decided it was time for her to be his Queen, which he gave her no choice in, he brought her down to the Underworld to show her all of the new world which she could rule. Honestly, if he kidnapped me, I would be 100% in it!
Now lets get on to my favorite part of the story, the moment when Hades grabbed Kora and took her down to the Underworld….WOW! Pretty steamy!!! Just their moments together were amazing and these moments really defined them as a couple (or soon to be couple, I hope.)
I can’t wait for the second book because I am addicted to this story.
Okay, lets talk about all the research that Kin did for this book. I mean, this girl knows her crap! She took all the things that I learned from school and wove this wonderful and beautiful story around it that I will admit, out of all of the Hades and Persephone books that I have read, she made this one truly unique.
Now let me say, the first half of the book is just the background of these two characters along with other gods so you really don’t get to read much about them together during this time, but this is all essential; these are the building block chapters.
On to the story, you could tell that Hades was really fascinated with Persephone on so many different levels. There was something about her when he first met her in Zeus’ garden so much so that he continued to visit her on the hidden island while she grew up. So when he finally decided it was time for her to be his Queen, which he gave her no choice in, he brought her down to the Underworld to show her all of the new world which she could rule. Honestly, if he kidnapped me, I would be 100% in it!
Now lets get on to my favorite part of the story, the moment when Hades grabbed Kora and took her down to the Underworld….WOW! Pretty steamy!!! Just their moments together were amazing and these moments really defined them as a couple (or soon to be couple, I hope.)
I can’t wait for the second book because I am addicted to this story.
May 5, 2013
Brilliant, detailed, likeable and easy-to-read retelling of the romance of Hades and Persephone. Meticulously researched, Seeds tells the story of Persephone's conception and childhood and the beginnings of her romance with Hades. What I loved about this one was the sheer attention to detail and the way that the author made the characters seem real--her interest in the myths shows throughout the book.
October 26, 2014
I absolutely loved…I mean LOVED this book. I love mythology - I love Hades and Persephone together and I love how this book just smashed them together and it came out HOT!
Okay, lets talk about all the research that Kin did for this book. I mean, this girl knows her crap! She took all the things that I learned from school and wove this wonderful and beautiful story around it that I will admit, out of all of the Hades and Persephone books that I have read, she made this one truly unique.
Now let me say, the first half of the book is just the background of these two characters along with other gods so you really don’t get to read much about them together during this time, but this is all essential; these are the building block chapters.
On to the story, you could tell that Hades was really fascinated with Persephone on so many different levels. There was something about her when he first met her in Zeus’ garden so much so that he continued to visit her on the hidden island while she grew up. So when he finally decided it was time for her to be his Queen, which he gave her no choice in, he brought her down to the Underworld to show her all of the new world which she could rule. Honestly, if he kidnapped me, I would be 100% in it!
Now lets get on to my favorite part of the story, the moment when Hades grabbed Kora and took her down to the Underworld….WOW! Pretty steamy!!! Just their moments together were amazing and these moments really defined them as a couple (or soon to be couple, I hope.)
I can’t wait for the second book because I am addicted to this story. ~BookWhisperer Reviewer MC~
Okay, lets talk about all the research that Kin did for this book. I mean, this girl knows her crap! She took all the things that I learned from school and wove this wonderful and beautiful story around it that I will admit, out of all of the Hades and Persephone books that I have read, she made this one truly unique.
Now let me say, the first half of the book is just the background of these two characters along with other gods so you really don’t get to read much about them together during this time, but this is all essential; these are the building block chapters.
On to the story, you could tell that Hades was really fascinated with Persephone on so many different levels. There was something about her when he first met her in Zeus’ garden so much so that he continued to visit her on the hidden island while she grew up. So when he finally decided it was time for her to be his Queen, which he gave her no choice in, he brought her down to the Underworld to show her all of the new world which she could rule. Honestly, if he kidnapped me, I would be 100% in it!
Now lets get on to my favorite part of the story, the moment when Hades grabbed Kora and took her down to the Underworld….WOW! Pretty steamy!!! Just their moments together were amazing and these moments really defined them as a couple (or soon to be couple, I hope.)
I can’t wait for the second book because I am addicted to this story. ~BookWhisperer Reviewer MC~
March 12, 2014
I can certainly appreciate the slow build up to the main plot in this one by M.M. Kin. As a huge Greek mythology fan as well as a Classical Studies minor, I am drawn to this type of writing, but I have to say that there are few that do it with such style and approach. I loved the light and love that Kin shines on the couple of Hades and Persephone as in the myths they inspired more pity and loathing for the two. I was amazed at the versatility that Ms. Kin saddled Hades with and allows for her readers to see deeper than just the surface and to discover this hidden lover.
Kin does an amazing job of drawing her readers into her world and really taking them for a ride as at some points, it is hard to pinpoint what exactly I should be feeling. I felt fear, fascination, love, and heartache all in the span of these covers and know that there is still much to be told with this myth. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone with a passion for classical literature and with the modern twists put on the writing, I would find it difficult to not be totally immersed in the writing!
Now, on to the next one!!
Kin does an amazing job of drawing her readers into her world and really taking them for a ride as at some points, it is hard to pinpoint what exactly I should be feeling. I felt fear, fascination, love, and heartache all in the span of these covers and know that there is still much to be told with this myth. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone with a passion for classical literature and with the modern twists put on the writing, I would find it difficult to not be totally immersed in the writing!
Now, on to the next one!!
June 13, 2014
I enjoy the myth of Hades and Persephone, and it seems to be a trend for authors to write novels based off this. Not a problem at all, for those who enjoy reading different versions of the myth. I've enjoyed many of the ones I come across, and this was definitely one of them!
The research done in this book is apparent, since in other mythology books, the gods come off as flat. Zeus is portrayed as a man who makes a lot of mistakes, not because he is trying to be cruel, but he just doesn't think ahead for the consequences of his actions, and when he realizes he has made mistakes the first thing he thinks about is saving his skin.
I really liked the portrayal of Hades and Demeter. Though Demeter comes off as really overprotective, when you read the story, you understand why, and I really enjoyed Hades as a character and the author gave him a very handsome, sexy appearance! I was so excited when he finally met Persephone. The kidnapping scene was executed well and I was thrilled when it finally happened.
I gotta say, this is not a book for kids because it has some graphic action between Hades and Persephone, which I personally enjoyed.
The research done in this book is apparent, since in other mythology books, the gods come off as flat. Zeus is portrayed as a man who makes a lot of mistakes, not because he is trying to be cruel, but he just doesn't think ahead for the consequences of his actions, and when he realizes he has made mistakes the first thing he thinks about is saving his skin.
I really liked the portrayal of Hades and Demeter. Though Demeter comes off as really overprotective, when you read the story, you understand why, and I really enjoyed Hades as a character and the author gave him a very handsome, sexy appearance! I was so excited when he finally met Persephone. The kidnapping scene was executed well and I was thrilled when it finally happened.
I gotta say, this is not a book for kids because it has some graphic action between Hades and Persephone, which I personally enjoyed.
June 7, 2017
I'm so happy that I was finally able to read this series! However, at the same time sad because I can't find the 2nd & 3rd book! Which absolutely is a major bummer!
Anyway, this book practically called my attention because of the book cover, which is absolutely gorgeous~ Well anyway, like from other books I've read, Demeter was portrayed to be an overprotective mother who eventually suffocates Persephone with that over-protectiveness she had. I've also wondered why in other books it was portrayed that Persephone was raped, now I know. And frankly enough, I love how Hades has so much self-control here and how he liked to please Persephone so much. I just wish that I can read the next two books!
Anyway, this book practically called my attention because of the book cover, which is absolutely gorgeous~ Well anyway, like from other books I've read, Demeter was portrayed to be an overprotective mother who eventually suffocates Persephone with that over-protectiveness she had. I've also wondered why in other books it was portrayed that Persephone was raped, now I know. And frankly enough, I love how Hades has so much self-control here and how he liked to please Persephone so much. I just wish that I can read the next two books!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 26, 2013
I love mythology-based books, and after reading Persephone, I was obsessed with the story of Hades and Persephone. This book was simply amazing!! The only reason I did not give it five stars was because there were certain parts of the book I did not care much for. Although without these parts, you would not know what happened/was happening outside of the lives of the couple.
December 30, 2013
The reviews were spot on with this book. I enjoyed the way the story and characters were described, along with the intimacy development between Persephone and Hades.
July 21, 2014
Exceptional retelling of the myth of Hades and Persephone. Will read sequels for sure.
July 23, 2014
What a beautiful and captivating start for a retell about Hades and Persephone greek myth <33
August 19, 2014
I'm a huge fan of the Hades and Persephone story, so I was happy to stumble across this version!
It's a very well-researched book with a strong start, but I feel like the second half was a little too slow. I know this is a series, so hopefully some of the more enticing stuff (I mean we all know how the story goes) happens in the second book.
Score: 3.5 stars
It's a very well-researched book with a strong start, but I feel like the second half was a little too slow. I know this is a series, so hopefully some of the more enticing stuff (I mean we all know how the story goes) happens in the second book.
Score: 3.5 stars
Want to read
September 18, 2013I had read this back on FanFiction.net before it had been published, and was absolutely ecstatic when the book finally came out. Completely worth the money.
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