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That Fatal Kiss
When it comes to love, sometimes you have to cross the line...
Feared by mortals for his inexorable power, and loathed by his fellow Greek gods for the same, Hades rules the Underworld alone. A stark eternity looms before him until he discovers Persephone. Struck by the youthful goddess’ beauty, kindness, and spirit, he must have her. But Hades believes Persephone could never love him, and so he conspires with his powerful brother, Zeus, to take her by force.
Persephone too seeks a mate but her possessive mother, the goddess Demeter, frustrates her husband hunting. Then Hades abducts Persephone, tearing her away from the Upperworld she loves to reign with him in the dank depths below. Though outraged, Persephone cannot deny the desire ignited within her by the dark lord’s touch. And even as she hopes that Demeter will unearth her, Persephone aches to surrender to the heat in Hades’ immortal soul.
Feared by mortals for his inexorable power, and loathed by his fellow Greek gods for the same, Hades rules the Underworld alone. A stark eternity looms before him until he discovers Persephone. Struck by the youthful goddess’ beauty, kindness, and spirit, he must have her. But Hades believes Persephone could never love him, and so he conspires with his powerful brother, Zeus, to take her by force.
Persephone too seeks a mate but her possessive mother, the goddess Demeter, frustrates her husband hunting. Then Hades abducts Persephone, tearing her away from the Upperworld she loves to reign with him in the dank depths below. Though outraged, Persephone cannot deny the desire ignited within her by the dark lord’s touch. And even as she hopes that Demeter will unearth her, Persephone aches to surrender to the heat in Hades’ immortal soul.
282 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 21, 2013
28 people are currently reading
1212 people want to read
About the author
Mina Lobo
2 books22 followersMina Lobo, aka Goth Mom Lite, has a habit of doing things in threes and an inordinate love of ellipses for which she has yet to seek medical attention. She enjoys comedic horror and alt rock, goth, & new wave music, as well as quality Belgian chocolates.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
November 15, 2013
Well done! Many of us, when retelling the Persephone/Hades myth, end up re-envisioning it without all its non-consensual elements, because those things, while perfectly true to the myths, can be hot-button issues for modern readers. However, Mina Lobo finds a way to stick very closely to the mythology and to still make it a lighthearted love story. I am impressed!
Yep, Hades kidnaps Persephone, and tries some other naughty tricks on her too. But this is a goddess we're dealing with. She's not helpless--as we all must have wondered when reading the myth. She fights right back, and soon sees he's not malicious really; just clueless about courtship (also a possibility I considered in my youth, when thinking about the myth), and that he honestly does love her and doesn't want to hurt her. In short, the author makes it work, even with all the consent problems the mythology comes packaged with, because now we get to see the in-between scenes that weren't mentioned in, say, the Homeric Hymn to Demeter. (But which still could fit into the framework of the original mythology.)
And for mythology fans, there are many other excellent references woven into Hades and Persephone's adventures, all surprisingly faithful to the old stories. The dialogue even has a stately feel that would fit into the afore-mentioned Homeric Hymn, but with more modern sparkles of wit thrown in, giving the whole thing a fun and whimsical mood.
Amen on Ares being "kind of a douche". I mean, seriously.
Yep, Hades kidnaps Persephone, and tries some other naughty tricks on her too. But this is a goddess we're dealing with. She's not helpless--as we all must have wondered when reading the myth. She fights right back, and soon sees he's not malicious really; just clueless about courtship (also a possibility I considered in my youth, when thinking about the myth), and that he honestly does love her and doesn't want to hurt her. In short, the author makes it work, even with all the consent problems the mythology comes packaged with, because now we get to see the in-between scenes that weren't mentioned in, say, the Homeric Hymn to Demeter. (But which still could fit into the framework of the original mythology.)
And for mythology fans, there are many other excellent references woven into Hades and Persephone's adventures, all surprisingly faithful to the old stories. The dialogue even has a stately feel that would fit into the afore-mentioned Homeric Hymn, but with more modern sparkles of wit thrown in, giving the whole thing a fun and whimsical mood.
Amen on Ares being "kind of a douche". I mean, seriously.
October 19, 2013
Hades rules the Underworld alone in the darkness. Only one light has ever attracted him. For years, he has watched Persephone and fallen in love from afar. He must have her as his wife. Conspiring with her father Zeus, Hades abducts the beautiful goddess and whisks her away the Underworld. Persephone is a creature of the light. She's goodness and compassion with a hidden wildness and streak of willfulness. She won't submit to Hades so easily even though she feels a powerful pull toward him. Hades struggles to show her how much he loves her, and she doesn't make it any easier on him. Will Persephone fall for the dark lord's charms or be one of the few to escape from the Underworld?
I'm already a fan of Greek mythology, and I love this telling of Hades and Persephone's tale. Even though I knew how it was going to end, the journey was amazing. I was sucked into the story right from the beginning and found it hard to put down my Kindle until the end.
What made this book so great is the characterization. The reader gets to see the gods as they've never been seen before. Hades isn't the cold and forbidding dark demon as some portray him. He's isolated yet yearns for companionship, demanding yet compassionate, and totally hot! I became enchanted by him. He's an Alpha male, but unlike many others in the genre. Persephone can be young and rash, but she's smart, strong, and sympathetic. The perfect complement to Hades. I especially liked her relationships with the other goddesses, particularly Hecate and Athena.
THAT FATAL KISS is a phenomenal debut for Mina Lobo. Her romance sizzles and her worlds are vivid with life. This is a love story I highly recommend.
I'm already a fan of Greek mythology, and I love this telling of Hades and Persephone's tale. Even though I knew how it was going to end, the journey was amazing. I was sucked into the story right from the beginning and found it hard to put down my Kindle until the end.
What made this book so great is the characterization. The reader gets to see the gods as they've never been seen before. Hades isn't the cold and forbidding dark demon as some portray him. He's isolated yet yearns for companionship, demanding yet compassionate, and totally hot! I became enchanted by him. He's an Alpha male, but unlike many others in the genre. Persephone can be young and rash, but she's smart, strong, and sympathetic. The perfect complement to Hades. I especially liked her relationships with the other goddesses, particularly Hecate and Athena.
THAT FATAL KISS is a phenomenal debut for Mina Lobo. Her romance sizzles and her worlds are vivid with life. This is a love story I highly recommend.
June 7, 2015
I loved this book SO MUCH, that I was devastated when it was over. I was so happy that I took a chance and bought this book!
I'm a HUGE Persephone/Hades lore fan, and there aren't many romance books that feature the two. I came across this one on Amazon, and while the book cover scared me a bit (no offense!) I decided to give it a try.
Once I started reading, I could not put it down! And I was so upset when I had to go to work the next morning, and that I actually had to stop reading and go to bed, haha!
Mina's portrayal of Hades and Persephone are wonderful! Especially Persephone, I love how she doesn't make her a meek girl like most make her out to be. No, Persephone is strong, and it shows when she repeatedly won't take for how Hades acts, speaks, or treats her.
I will admit, I did want to hit Hades over the head a few times, especially in the beginning of the book. Though without trying to spoil too much of it (and it does follow the myth quite well storyline wise), Hades does get better and lets his true self shine...with Persephone, anyway ;) I think it's great when an author can make you love a character you were very unsure about!
And I also appreciate that their relationship didn't develop quickly. There was initial attraction sure, but their feels really took some time to come about, and I truly appreciated that. It made me invest in the story so much more!
To summarize - EVERYONE should read this book. Like mythology? Read it. Like Persephone and Hades? READ IT! Like romance in general? I think you'll be pleasantly surprised, like I was!
Now, don't mind me while I sit here and hope and wish for a sequel. Or perhaps another book in the same series? Pretty please? :)
I'm a HUGE Persephone/Hades lore fan, and there aren't many romance books that feature the two. I came across this one on Amazon, and while the book cover scared me a bit (no offense!) I decided to give it a try.
Once I started reading, I could not put it down! And I was so upset when I had to go to work the next morning, and that I actually had to stop reading and go to bed, haha!
Mina's portrayal of Hades and Persephone are wonderful! Especially Persephone, I love how she doesn't make her a meek girl like most make her out to be. No, Persephone is strong, and it shows when she repeatedly won't take for how Hades acts, speaks, or treats her.
I will admit, I did want to hit Hades over the head a few times, especially in the beginning of the book. Though without trying to spoil too much of it (and it does follow the myth quite well storyline wise), Hades does get better and lets his true self shine...with Persephone, anyway ;) I think it's great when an author can make you love a character you were very unsure about!
And I also appreciate that their relationship didn't develop quickly. There was initial attraction sure, but their feels really took some time to come about, and I truly appreciated that. It made me invest in the story so much more!
To summarize - EVERYONE should read this book. Like mythology? Read it. Like Persephone and Hades? READ IT! Like romance in general? I think you'll be pleasantly surprised, like I was!
Now, don't mind me while I sit here and hope and wish for a sequel. Or perhaps another book in the same series? Pretty please? :)
June 25, 2015
Since reading this book and with the help of the lovely authors of the Dark Hunter books Sherrilyn Kenyon open my eyes to this beautiful story of Hades's love story. When reading PC Cast version Goddess of Spring of the love story brought the story to life for me.
image:
I cried when I read PC Cast book on this love story that has won my heart and fueled my obsession on reading this love story that I find other Hades and Persephone's love stories and enjoined each one.
Getting back to Fatal Kiss...
image:
I loved how Hades who is well known as the God of death and is feared by many and a God who just wanted a wife and what a lengthen Hades went to getting that wife. As the story progressive I came to love how Hades has not just a tough side but also a soft spot when it comes to his lovely wife, many of these Authors I mention made me fall in love with Hades and Persephone's love story all over again.
image:
I cried when I read PC Cast book on this love story that has won my heart and fueled my obsession on reading this love story that I find other Hades and Persephone's love stories and enjoined each one.
Getting back to Fatal Kiss...
image:
I loved how Hades who is well known as the God of death and is feared by many and a God who just wanted a wife and what a lengthen Hades went to getting that wife. As the story progressive I came to love how Hades has not just a tough side but also a soft spot when it comes to his lovely wife, many of these Authors I mention made me fall in love with Hades and Persephone's love story all over again.
October 1, 2013
I've never studied mythology, but I've always loved the stories that have come from it. My goal when I watch a movie or read a book is to be entertained, taken on a journey, and blown away by the excitement of mystery and romance.
I found all that and more in Mina Lobo's book That Fatal Kiss. Persephone is a beauty, she's also a goddess, Hades is handsome, he's also a loner, which suits his role as the God of the afterlife, but it plays havoc with relationships. In his quest to find a wife, he puts Zeus in a precarious position, give me your daughter Persephone as my wife, or suffer the consequences. Poor Zeus, he's between a rock and a hard place, the powerful Hades or the powerful Demeter, Persephone's mother . Does he even consider the plight of his daughter? Why should he, a woman's feelings didn't count, not then and even today, the struggle continues, but back to all that fun and the drama of fiction!
Is it a love story? Persephone was considering marriage, she just didn't have anyone in mind, and Hades is handsome, and he did choose her, but is it enough? She's not a wilting flower either, and that makes her the perfect foil for a God who thought he could just command his way to love. Would you give up living in the light to exist in the bowels of hell, even if true love were the reward? I mean looks and power aren't everything - especially if marriage is the sentence!
It's a great journey and Mina tells it with skill and finesse! Her love scenes are sizzling and masterful. The quandary of her characters believable and the solution well thought out and extremely diplomatic - considering the warring nature of gods and goddesses!
I highly recommend That Fatal Kiss, it's a must read, and one I'll go back to on those cold and lonely nights when a great love story is what I'm seeking. Well done Mina!
I found all that and more in Mina Lobo's book That Fatal Kiss. Persephone is a beauty, she's also a goddess, Hades is handsome, he's also a loner, which suits his role as the God of the afterlife, but it plays havoc with relationships. In his quest to find a wife, he puts Zeus in a precarious position, give me your daughter Persephone as my wife, or suffer the consequences. Poor Zeus, he's between a rock and a hard place, the powerful Hades or the powerful Demeter, Persephone's mother . Does he even consider the plight of his daughter? Why should he, a woman's feelings didn't count, not then and even today, the struggle continues, but back to all that fun and the drama of fiction!
Is it a love story? Persephone was considering marriage, she just didn't have anyone in mind, and Hades is handsome, and he did choose her, but is it enough? She's not a wilting flower either, and that makes her the perfect foil for a God who thought he could just command his way to love. Would you give up living in the light to exist in the bowels of hell, even if true love were the reward? I mean looks and power aren't everything - especially if marriage is the sentence!
It's a great journey and Mina tells it with skill and finesse! Her love scenes are sizzling and masterful. The quandary of her characters believable and the solution well thought out and extremely diplomatic - considering the warring nature of gods and goddesses!
I highly recommend That Fatal Kiss, it's a must read, and one I'll go back to on those cold and lonely nights when a great love story is what I'm seeking. Well done Mina!
January 22, 2014
First off, I love Greek mythology and studied it at university, so this was a bit of a blast from the past for me. I loved reading this retelling of the Hades/Persephone myth. I thought it was interesting how Mina Lobo treated Artemis, who has always been my favourite goddess. She was basically a petulant, whiny little sister at times, which was cute, but I love the Artemis of myth who is a mighty huntress.
All in all, I loved this book - Lobo portrays Hades as a delectable kind of sexy, brooding dude, but of course the brooding guys are always much better in fiction than in reality, at least in my experience. :P Still, I will go for them every time in the fictional worlds I read about, and I will love them!
I found this book to be humorous as well as sweet and romantic and, now and then, just a little bit steamy. ;) I also think Lobo is a great writer, and in recent years I've read a lot of self-published books that have actually made me furious because they're badly written. It was a delight to read an excellently-written self-published book whose every word was pleasing. :)
All in all, I loved this book - Lobo portrays Hades as a delectable kind of sexy, brooding dude, but of course the brooding guys are always much better in fiction than in reality, at least in my experience. :P Still, I will go for them every time in the fictional worlds I read about, and I will love them!
I found this book to be humorous as well as sweet and romantic and, now and then, just a little bit steamy. ;) I also think Lobo is a great writer, and in recent years I've read a lot of self-published books that have actually made me furious because they're badly written. It was a delight to read an excellently-written self-published book whose every word was pleasing. :)
January 20, 2018
No matter how many books I read about these two I just fall in love with them over and over again. As much as I can see here Demeter was made to be a mother of infinite control over Persephone's whole life until she met the Lord of the Underworld, Hades. Lord of the Underworld Hades has ever ruled his realm on his own in solitude and darkness. However, ever since he saw the young goddess, Persephone, his life changed. I find it absolutely adorable how Hades was made to be the all controlling tempermental god he is, but when it comes to his fair wife and queen of the underworld, he goes all puppy dog on her and its just very much adorable. Great book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 28, 2013
I was already somewhat familiar with the myth of Persephone and Hades, but Lobo breathed life and passion (Woo-Hoo! What passion!) into these characters. With a keen imagination and vivid descriptions, she depicts the gods and goddesses of Greek mythology as you've never seen them before, and creates fantastic and memorable images of the underworld. This book is thoroughly enjoyable. And hot. Yep. Who knew? Hades really IS hot.
September 6, 2016
4.5 Too Good love story
i am just speechless, i loved dis books dt much. I think the writing got to me. I am irrevocable in love with Hades, and in awww of Persephone...
i am just speechless, i loved dis books dt much. I think the writing got to me. I am irrevocable in love with Hades, and in awww of Persephone...
March 5, 2018
I had a lot of problems with this book. First of all, the two attempted rapes in the story were not given proper attention. They are just easily forgiven after they happen, which as a survivor I can tell you just doesn’t happen, even in these supposed ancient times where it was played off as the norm. Persephone also constantly forgives Hade’s string of abusive behavior. Like girl, no. The only thing he has going for him is he’s not as terrible as the other gods. Hades continued with his horrible treatment of Persephone even if there were moments of “tenderness” I found nothing cute about this love story, it left me deeply disturbed
October 4, 2013
I was drawn to this book from the moment I saw the cover. Then a teaser I read sealed the deal. Though the story turned out to be a bit lighter once I got into it, I wasn't disappointed.
I don't know much about mythology, so I'm not sure how someone who does would feel about That Fatal Kiss, but the information woven in was interesting to me. Lobo's characters are likeable, and I came to admire Hades despite his initial treatment of Persephone.
I'm not a fan of omniscient POV or abundant/excessive dialogue tags, but the fact I kept reading (and enjoyed) the book in spite of those is a testament to the author's skill and the likability of her characters and the story. Once I got used to Lobo's style, those things faded into the background.
Mina Lobo is definitely an author to watch, and That Fatal Kiss is worth your time to read. 4 1/2 stars.
I don't know much about mythology, so I'm not sure how someone who does would feel about That Fatal Kiss, but the information woven in was interesting to me. Lobo's characters are likeable, and I came to admire Hades despite his initial treatment of Persephone.
I'm not a fan of omniscient POV or abundant/excessive dialogue tags, but the fact I kept reading (and enjoyed) the book in spite of those is a testament to the author's skill and the likability of her characters and the story. Once I got used to Lobo's style, those things faded into the background.
Mina Lobo is definitely an author to watch, and That Fatal Kiss is worth your time to read. 4 1/2 stars.
September 25, 2017
Great mythology book.
September 22, 2014
When I started this book, I thought it was good. Now, maybe I read one too many persephone/hades books, but this one left me... unsatisfied? I don't really know how to explain it.
The books starts off with Persephone being kidnapped by Hades. I love that the author kept the story as true to the myth as possible. And I had nothing against it. Then Persephone was falling in love with her husband and their relationship was growing rapidly. And that's fine. What really turned me off is that Persephone went from "I hate you for dragging me to this hell hole" to "I love you let's have babies" in a matter of a week and a half. In nine days specifically, she found out that she would rather spend all of eternity in the underworld with this man she barely knows than go back up to the living world.
I'm sorry, but I hate it when that happens. I would have been fine with the story if this development had taken a couple of months rather than a simple 10 days. It is just unrealistic.
So far as my two stars go; I'd like to say that I base my judgment on the description of goodreads.
Ergo, 2 stars = it was okay
The books starts off with Persephone being kidnapped by Hades. I love that the author kept the story as true to the myth as possible. And I had nothing against it. Then Persephone was falling in love with her husband and their relationship was growing rapidly. And that's fine. What really turned me off is that Persephone went from "I hate you for dragging me to this hell hole" to "I love you let's have babies" in a matter of a week and a half. In nine days specifically, she found out that she would rather spend all of eternity in the underworld with this man she barely knows than go back up to the living world.
I'm sorry, but I hate it when that happens. I would have been fine with the story if this development had taken a couple of months rather than a simple 10 days. It is just unrealistic.
So far as my two stars go; I'd like to say that I base my judgment on the description of goodreads.
Ergo, 2 stars = it was okay
December 20, 2017
why do I keep reading these books
March 4, 2020
2.4*
There were annoying things, but there were also few nice ones.
All the "father cronus"es and "mother rhea"s had me roll my eyes. Ugh. We know who is who, we're the greek mythology geeks. Few god/goddesses weren't shown as i'd like, but i did enjoyed Athena and relationships that Zeus had with his kids. Having Persephone as more experienced was not bad, but here confidence with her powers... Lack of it is always important part of hadesephone retellings.
Hades calling her "Kore"? That's a big no-no for me...
I planned to dnf but i didn't. And now i feel like i didn't get almost any of my favorite relationships in book about them.
There were annoying things, but there were also few nice ones.
All the "father cronus"es and "mother rhea"s had me roll my eyes. Ugh. We know who is who, we're the greek mythology geeks. Few god/goddesses weren't shown as i'd like, but i did enjoyed Athena and relationships that Zeus had with his kids. Having Persephone as more experienced was not bad, but here confidence with her powers... Lack of it is always important part of hadesephone retellings.
Hades calling her "Kore"? That's a big no-no for me...
I planned to dnf but i didn't. And now i feel like i didn't get almost any of my favorite relationships in book about them.
October 27, 2013
I enjoyed this re-imagining of the Greek myth of Hades and Persephone so much!
Persephone was smart and resourceful but craved love and respect.
Hades was handsome, wise and crushingly in love with her.
The story was well written and very humorous in places.
The author kept a good handle on the lingo and all the characters.
And YE GODS the smoldering tension between these two could heat the whole NorthEast this winter!
Thank you to the author for such a great book!
Persephone was smart and resourceful but craved love and respect.
Hades was handsome, wise and crushingly in love with her.
The story was well written and very humorous in places.
The author kept a good handle on the lingo and all the characters.
And YE GODS the smoldering tension between these two could heat the whole NorthEast this winter!
Thank you to the author for such a great book!
January 1, 2015
I may be biased because I love Persephone!
I have read quite a few retelling's of this myth. This version stuck close to the myth with keeping some of our modern day convictions. Hades was strong but had the obvious adoration for Persephone. Whereas in other novels, Hades is almost weak and crippled by his love for her. Persephone was strong but also very feminine. This retelling also incorporated other myths from greek mythology. I really enjoyed this version!
I have read quite a few retelling's of this myth. This version stuck close to the myth with keeping some of our modern day convictions. Hades was strong but had the obvious adoration for Persephone. Whereas in other novels, Hades is almost weak and crippled by his love for her. Persephone was strong but also very feminine. This retelling also incorporated other myths from greek mythology. I really enjoyed this version!
January 11, 2020
This book is a bit hard to get through because although I like the theme and the characters, I feel that the scenarios, conflict, and the way they rationalize them are hard to believe. Because it is a little unbelievable, unnatural, and long.... it's hard to get past them, difficult to read on. A bit too tame and flat.
July 21, 2015
Another retelling of the Hades & Persephone myth.
February 28, 2020
oh my!!! where do i start?!!!!!
this book is well written and worth the read!
this book is well written and worth the read!
May 14, 2019
That Fatal Kiss retells one of the most complex and old love stories known in Greek mythology, which is Persephone and Hades’ myth. Hades, the God of the Underworld – death – falls in love with the joyful Goddess of Vegetation and Spring Persephone – life. To have her, Hades steals and brings her with him to the Underworld, where they get married and learn to love each other.
Sound delighting, right?
Now, I had the luck of reading the well-known retelling For the Love of Hades by authorSasha Summers, which was an extraordinary novel, I highly recommend it. After finishing it, I couldn’t wait to dive right into another beautiful story. I should have stopped there and not try to find similar works, because, as I learned the hard way, there is little chance to accomplish that.
I disliked That Fatal Kiss to such an extent that I did not manage to finish the book, for I don’t believe it was worth my time. I might sound extreme but there is seriously no other way to describe my exact feelings regarding this book.
Before reading the following paragraphs, keep in mind that I will write spoilers.
The plot
As expected from a retelling, the novel focuses on the growth of Persephone and Hades’ relationship from the moment he enters her life to bringing her to the Underworld and loving one another. That Fatal Kiss is faithful to the basic idea, presenting the abduction of the Goddess of Vegetation and her delivery to Hades’ home.
The characters
Here is where things went off for me.
I disliked every single character written by this author.
Let’s start with our heroine. Persephone is a confident young woman and, being the hopelessly romantic that she is, she believes in a love-driven marriage. She is strong and determined. Until Hades happens. When the God of the Underworld travels to the upper land, Persephone knows why he came. So she lets him take her, being fully aware for what purpose. On the other hand, when they arrive together in his home, Persephone suddenly becomes aware that she has been stolen away and grows furious. She couldn’t fight, or at least try, before letting herself swept away? It seems no.
So Hades is crazily in love with this woman and so he tries to physically have her, right away. To which Persephone says no, of course. But he tries to rape her! Twice! In time (short. period. of. time.) our goddess somehow forgets about this abusive behavior and pities Hades for being a virgin.
Wait, what.
Hades seems to be a very confident male, who knows what he is doing… until they become intimately engaged. Guess what? It seems that our decades, perhaps centuries, old protagonist is actually a virgin while his lover (decades younger than him) is not.
Are you telling me that Hades did not have sex until then? *sigh*
Oh, let’s not forget that Persephone doesn’t actually find it creepy that her lover had a mirror showing him her every move. The goddess was quite fascinated by the matter.
??
Going on to Hades. In the short description of the novel, Hades is described as being extremely powerful and hated for it, but I can’t see any trace of that in his attitude or personality. I can only see one arrogant teenager.
At the beginning of the novel he seems to be the perfect example of an alpha male, anti-feminist, with the strong beliefs of medieval men: women should listen to the men in their lives and do what they are told. Alright, might be understandable considering the setting and time of the action in the novel. But what I couldn’t grasp was why a man with such strong beliefs would be enjoyed by his lover’s challenging attitude. Hades constantly told her how no matter her wishes, Persephone will do as he commands, but she rarely listens to him, because our all-mighty God continuously approves of her “ill-mannered” personality.
Keep in mind that while enjoying, laughing, and accepting her denials of listening to him, Hades still believes women should listen to their men. Did I miss something?
Correct me if I am wrong, but from what I’ve read and seen even in modern times, men who truthfully believe in the superiority of men do not accept a challenging behavior. They grow mad and tired of it, to the point of becoming abusive. These two are the most bipolar characters I have ever had the chance (or bad luck) of reading.
I was extremely curious to see how Lobo would deal with changing Hades mind about “the role of women” and making her fall in love despite their differences and his stealing of Persephone in the beginning. I found myself disappointed because I got a teenager drama instead of a mature read.
The writing is not necessarily bad. It had a nice proportion of description / dialogue, which I enjoyed, but that is all. It doesn’t save the utterly revolting characters or bad plot.
If it is not obvious, I don’t recommend That Fatal Kiss, not when there are a lot of better versions of Persephone and Hades’ love to read.
Sound delighting, right?
Now, I had the luck of reading the well-known retelling For the Love of Hades by authorSasha Summers, which was an extraordinary novel, I highly recommend it. After finishing it, I couldn’t wait to dive right into another beautiful story. I should have stopped there and not try to find similar works, because, as I learned the hard way, there is little chance to accomplish that.
I disliked That Fatal Kiss to such an extent that I did not manage to finish the book, for I don’t believe it was worth my time. I might sound extreme but there is seriously no other way to describe my exact feelings regarding this book.
Before reading the following paragraphs, keep in mind that I will write spoilers.
The plot
As expected from a retelling, the novel focuses on the growth of Persephone and Hades’ relationship from the moment he enters her life to bringing her to the Underworld and loving one another. That Fatal Kiss is faithful to the basic idea, presenting the abduction of the Goddess of Vegetation and her delivery to Hades’ home.
The characters
Here is where things went off for me.
I disliked every single character written by this author.
Let’s start with our heroine. Persephone is a confident young woman and, being the hopelessly romantic that she is, she believes in a love-driven marriage. She is strong and determined. Until Hades happens. When the God of the Underworld travels to the upper land, Persephone knows why he came. So she lets him take her, being fully aware for what purpose. On the other hand, when they arrive together in his home, Persephone suddenly becomes aware that she has been stolen away and grows furious. She couldn’t fight, or at least try, before letting herself swept away? It seems no.
So Hades is crazily in love with this woman and so he tries to physically have her, right away. To which Persephone says no, of course. But he tries to rape her! Twice! In time (short. period. of. time.) our goddess somehow forgets about this abusive behavior and pities Hades for being a virgin.
Wait, what.
Hades seems to be a very confident male, who knows what he is doing… until they become intimately engaged. Guess what? It seems that our decades, perhaps centuries, old protagonist is actually a virgin while his lover (decades younger than him) is not.
Are you telling me that Hades did not have sex until then? *sigh*
Oh, let’s not forget that Persephone doesn’t actually find it creepy that her lover had a mirror showing him her every move. The goddess was quite fascinated by the matter.
??
Going on to Hades. In the short description of the novel, Hades is described as being extremely powerful and hated for it, but I can’t see any trace of that in his attitude or personality. I can only see one arrogant teenager.
At the beginning of the novel he seems to be the perfect example of an alpha male, anti-feminist, with the strong beliefs of medieval men: women should listen to the men in their lives and do what they are told. Alright, might be understandable considering the setting and time of the action in the novel. But what I couldn’t grasp was why a man with such strong beliefs would be enjoyed by his lover’s challenging attitude. Hades constantly told her how no matter her wishes, Persephone will do as he commands, but she rarely listens to him, because our all-mighty God continuously approves of her “ill-mannered” personality.
Keep in mind that while enjoying, laughing, and accepting her denials of listening to him, Hades still believes women should listen to their men. Did I miss something?
Correct me if I am wrong, but from what I’ve read and seen even in modern times, men who truthfully believe in the superiority of men do not accept a challenging behavior. They grow mad and tired of it, to the point of becoming abusive. These two are the most bipolar characters I have ever had the chance (or bad luck) of reading.
I was extremely curious to see how Lobo would deal with changing Hades mind about “the role of women” and making her fall in love despite their differences and his stealing of Persephone in the beginning. I found myself disappointed because I got a teenager drama instead of a mature read.
The writing is not necessarily bad. It had a nice proportion of description / dialogue, which I enjoyed, but that is all. It doesn’t save the utterly revolting characters or bad plot.
If it is not obvious, I don’t recommend That Fatal Kiss, not when there are a lot of better versions of Persephone and Hades’ love to read.
June 14, 2018
Rating: 3.2 / 5
I'm caught between what to give this book credit for and what to take away credit for. The entire story is really a back-and-forth, both between what's happening, the relationship between Persephone and Hades, their respective personalities, etc. As such, everything that I list below is in a plus-minus relationship, so that's how I'll identify it:
+ On the plus side, both Hades and Persephone are given unique personalities that make them appealing and realistic, taking away from some of the more outdated elements of Greek mythology, but
- on the minus side, they each have their own Dr. Jekylls and Mr. Hydes. Hades, for instance, is an endearing and passionate lover, but at the same time can be kind of an asshole with ordering Persephone around, as he's king of the Underworld and is used to people following his orders without question. As for Persephone, she's strong and free-spiritedly declaring her independence one moment, but then succumbing to her "passion" for Hades and worrying about the basest things like if he's ever had a lover before or if she's beautiful enough for him.
+ On the plus side, the author does tie in the story to other characters like Athena, Artemis, Hecate, and even the story of Eros and Psyche, but
- on the minus side, a lot of the story revolves around Persephone and Hades's developing relationship, which, sadly borders on the sexual more often than not
- and also, considering that the original story had a strong emphasis on Demeter and her pain, for the 150+ pages or so, she's hardly ever mentioned except as a passing reference, and herself doesn't get a single line of dialogue or a page to describe her emotions in a detailed manner. I get that the presence of a mother figure is a complete, pardon my language, cockblock to the general romance that the book is aiming for, but since Demeter's role in the story is key, I expected more of her.
+ On the plus side, the book was interesting enough to continue reading and the writing style was okay,
- but on the minus side, it was a series of Persephone pushing Hades away from sex and then inwardly desperate for it. Their talks of previous lovers are annoying, taking away both from Hades's stoic personality and Persephone's innocent personality, making it seem like erotic love is the only focus that their attraction is based on, despite the author claiming it to be more in a joining of their hearts and souls. (All icky, in any case. *bleh*)
So, yeah, as a retelling of the story of Hades and Persephone, That Fatal Kiss does have quite a few things going for it, but, for the most part, I found myself going back and forth on whether I liked it or not. As it is, there was too much of
THIS:
and not enough of THIS:
So my overall reaction is this:
I'm caught between what to give this book credit for and what to take away credit for. The entire story is really a back-and-forth, both between what's happening, the relationship between Persephone and Hades, their respective personalities, etc. As such, everything that I list below is in a plus-minus relationship, so that's how I'll identify it:
+ On the plus side, both Hades and Persephone are given unique personalities that make them appealing and realistic, taking away from some of the more outdated elements of Greek mythology, but
- on the minus side, they each have their own Dr. Jekylls and Mr. Hydes. Hades, for instance, is an endearing and passionate lover, but at the same time can be kind of an asshole with ordering Persephone around, as he's king of the Underworld and is used to people following his orders without question. As for Persephone, she's strong and free-spiritedly declaring her independence one moment, but then succumbing to her "passion" for Hades and worrying about the basest things like if he's ever had a lover before or if she's beautiful enough for him.
+ On the plus side, the author does tie in the story to other characters like Athena, Artemis, Hecate, and even the story of Eros and Psyche, but
- on the minus side, a lot of the story revolves around Persephone and Hades's developing relationship, which, sadly borders on the sexual more often than not
- and also, considering that the original story had a strong emphasis on Demeter and her pain, for the 150+ pages or so, she's hardly ever mentioned except as a passing reference, and herself doesn't get a single line of dialogue or a page to describe her emotions in a detailed manner. I get that the presence of a mother figure is a complete, pardon my language, cockblock to the general romance that the book is aiming for, but since Demeter's role in the story is key, I expected more of her.
+ On the plus side, the book was interesting enough to continue reading and the writing style was okay,
- but on the minus side, it was a series of Persephone pushing Hades away from sex and then inwardly desperate for it. Their talks of previous lovers are annoying, taking away both from Hades's stoic personality and Persephone's innocent personality, making it seem like erotic love is the only focus that their attraction is based on, despite the author claiming it to be more in a joining of their hearts and souls. (All icky, in any case. *bleh*)
So, yeah, as a retelling of the story of Hades and Persephone, That Fatal Kiss does have quite a few things going for it, but, for the most part, I found myself going back and forth on whether I liked it or not. As it is, there was too much of
THIS:
and not enough of THIS:
So my overall reaction is this:
September 18, 2014
Hades, the lonely ruler of the Underworld, seeks the light to bring into his world of darkness. The only thing is that Persephone is that light and he goes to Zeus for help. Of course, Zeus gives his blessing and Hades sets off to take Persephone from the world above.
Out of the few Hades/Persephone books out there, this one has become a favorite of mine. Not because it was written for one of my favorite myths but it is one that does not make Persephone a total bitch from hell like the other books written on this particular mythology. I have grown rather wary when it comes to reading any sort of book containing the Hades/Persephone myth since most tend to lean toward the whole Hades/OC because Persephone is a bitch.
Although a bit naive, Persephone still gave Hades a chance to prove himself to her and that spoke volumes of her character. When it was also revealed that she poured water over the other Gods who were making fun of Hephaestus, it showed that Persephone did not like seeing other people being treated poorly by others and tried to make others understand that it was not right.
I really liked Persephone. She was much tougher and sympathetic than other versions of her that I have read and I really liked her a lot. She was a rather interesting character.
Hades was also interesting too. He was not the dark and brooding as other incarnations have him as and he seemed to be just as powerful as his brother, Zeus. This is the kind of hero I rather like. I want him to be able to hold himself up and on his own and not depend so heavily on other people to be the one to hold him up. This Hades was much more than anything I have seen in other incarnations.
I really recommend this book to others. I think you will enjoy it just as much as I have. :D
Out of the few Hades/Persephone books out there, this one has become a favorite of mine. Not because it was written for one of my favorite myths but it is one that does not make Persephone a total bitch from hell like the other books written on this particular mythology. I have grown rather wary when it comes to reading any sort of book containing the Hades/Persephone myth since most tend to lean toward the whole Hades/OC because Persephone is a bitch.
Although a bit naive, Persephone still gave Hades a chance to prove himself to her and that spoke volumes of her character. When it was also revealed that she poured water over the other Gods who were making fun of Hephaestus, it showed that Persephone did not like seeing other people being treated poorly by others and tried to make others understand that it was not right.
I really liked Persephone. She was much tougher and sympathetic than other versions of her that I have read and I really liked her a lot. She was a rather interesting character.
Hades was also interesting too. He was not the dark and brooding as other incarnations have him as and he seemed to be just as powerful as his brother, Zeus. This is the kind of hero I rather like. I want him to be able to hold himself up and on his own and not depend so heavily on other people to be the one to hold him up. This Hades was much more than anything I have seen in other incarnations.
I really recommend this book to others. I think you will enjoy it just as much as I have. :D
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 26, 2020
This cover doesn't do the book justice, and I wish it did because I really think this book deserves to be at least a little more popular.
The writing is solid and you can tell that Mina Lobo has made a great effort to do research on all the Greek myths. There are many more characters and myths that are intertwined in the story beyond Hades and Persephone.
My only complaints about this book, beyond the twilightesque cover, are that there is a certain moment in the book when the story drags. The book could easily have been about 70 pages shorter and would not have detracted from the story, it would have, in fact, done it a real favor.
On the other hand, as the story progressed I could not get rid of the repulsion I felt toward Hades, as he tried to rape Persephone in the very beginning.
Kudos to Mina Lobo for not creating a defenseless Persephone, but one that can punch Hades in the face a couple of well deserved times. However, she could have gone a little further and omitted the rape. I know that the Greeks loved it and that if there is not at least one case of incest or rape, it is not a true Greek myth, but this is the 21st century and anyone can afford to transform these horrific events into something in which human rights play a major role.
In short, the story has its shortcomings but I was overall thoroughly entertained.
The writing is solid and you can tell that Mina Lobo has made a great effort to do research on all the Greek myths. There are many more characters and myths that are intertwined in the story beyond Hades and Persephone.
My only complaints about this book, beyond the twilightesque cover, are that there is a certain moment in the book when the story drags. The book could easily have been about 70 pages shorter and would not have detracted from the story, it would have, in fact, done it a real favor.
On the other hand, as the story progressed I could not get rid of the repulsion I felt toward Hades, as he tried to rape Persephone in the very beginning.
Kudos to Mina Lobo for not creating a defenseless Persephone, but one that can punch Hades in the face a couple of well deserved times. However, she could have gone a little further and omitted the rape. I know that the Greeks loved it and that if there is not at least one case of incest or rape, it is not a true Greek myth, but this is the 21st century and anyone can afford to transform these horrific events into something in which human rights play a major role.
In short, the story has its shortcomings but I was overall thoroughly entertained.
October 29, 2019
I am a bit biased here since Hades and Persephone are my favourite couple in Greek mythology and I love any retelling I can find about it. Having said that, Mina Lobo excels at telling this story. They're both so charming and so alike, yet so lonely on their own, that it took Hades abducting Persephone to find their happiness together at long last.
Hades shows his evolution through the story: initially his lust drives him even if you can tell he's already in love with her, and eventually, he realises Persephone has to be his equal and treats her accordingly.
We have some steamy scenes, a well developed romance and some drama that makes it impossible to put the book down. I absolutely loved this retelling and I strongly recommend it.
Hades shows his evolution through the story: initially his lust drives him even if you can tell he's already in love with her, and eventually, he realises Persephone has to be his equal and treats her accordingly.
We have some steamy scenes, a well developed romance and some drama that makes it impossible to put the book down. I absolutely loved this retelling and I strongly recommend it.
December 1, 2015
Was ok
This is the one where she is playing ina field with Artemis and Athena and Hades breaks up through the field and captures her. She also has a friend in hecate, who is in the underworld. He tries to rape her at first but she convinces him to wait,
Hades hasn't had sex in a long time and doesn't think of her pleasure first and she is mad but in the end they are together and she loves him
This is the one where she is playing ina field with Artemis and Athena and Hades breaks up through the field and captures her. She also has a friend in hecate, who is in the underworld. He tries to rape her at first but she convinces him to wait,
Hades hasn't had sex in a long time and doesn't think of her pleasure first and she is mad but in the end they are together and she loves him
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 4, 2022
Characters are well etched. Hades and Persephone were excellent. I loved the fact that they could talk and sort out their differences rather than have misunderstandings etc. This Hades is definitely swoon worthy! I loved that Persephone was a strong, independent woman who put her foot down on things that mattered. It was refreshing to read a strong heroine and not a simpering miss. There is a kidnapped trope, but with consensual sex.
September 17, 2018
An amazing read! The Hades and Persephone is my all time favorite story. This retelling was enchanting and the writing was outstanding. I loved that the way that the gods spoke was so intellectual, which is not the case in many retellings. I give this book 4.5 stars, for while the writing is wonderful, there's not a whole lot going on in the story.
December 23, 2014
a nice light hearted retelling of the myth of Hades/Persephone, i liked that the author kept it as close to the myth as she could, not completely taking away all the noncon as some retellings usually do, i very much enjoyed this book
August 14, 2016
I enjoyed this book but I would not thought to have read. The only reason I did was because it was in the Hades and Persephone list of books. The title and the cover art made me think it was a vampire book.
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