What do you think?
Rate this book
The Dance of Death
Eurydice Martin is now dead, one of the many victims of Demeter’s devastating storm. Her arrival in the Underworld should be as inconsequential as every other soul’s, but she immediately catches the eye of Thanatos, the God of Death, whom she’s had a deep infatuation with ever since their brief meeting when she was girl. But as the two grow closer, they learn that Eurydice is a unique soul in more ways than one, and perhaps she was always meant to come to the Underworld. Perhaps it was her destiny. There’s only one problem; Orpheus, the husband she left behind and now has no memory of.
Orpheus Martin is determined to get his wife back from the Underworld, no matter what sacrifices he has to make or what rules he must break. However, his plans are thrown for a loop by Charon, the Ferryman of the Underworld, who goes from an obstacle, to an unlikely ally, to a begrudging friend. There’s only one problem; neither of them planned to catch feelings, and now Orpheus is questioning not just his mission, but his future with Eurydice. All the while an elusive and dangerous God watches from the shadows, waiting for his chance to strike at the heart of the Underworld when its inhabitants are divided. For no one can hold a grudge like a God can, and there’s no better puppet master than fear itself.
The Dance of Death is the second book in the Gods’ Gambit series, following old and new characters in a story that will keep you on the edge of your seat and begging for more.
Orpheus Martin is determined to get his wife back from the Underworld, no matter what sacrifices he has to make or what rules he must break. However, his plans are thrown for a loop by Charon, the Ferryman of the Underworld, who goes from an obstacle, to an unlikely ally, to a begrudging friend. There’s only one problem; neither of them planned to catch feelings, and now Orpheus is questioning not just his mission, but his future with Eurydice. All the while an elusive and dangerous God watches from the shadows, waiting for his chance to strike at the heart of the Underworld when its inhabitants are divided. For no one can hold a grudge like a God can, and there’s no better puppet master than fear itself.
The Dance of Death is the second book in the Gods’ Gambit series, following old and new characters in a story that will keep you on the edge of your seat and begging for more.
270 pages, ebook
Published March 14, 2024
36 people want to read
About the author
Savannah James
14 books25 followersSavannah James is an author that is dedicated to writing the stories she loves while sprinkling in some much needed representation for type one diabetics such as herself. She primarily writes romance, but she also dabbles in poetry and horror. When she’s not writing, she can be found reading, journaling, playing Minecraft, watching movies, jamming to Taylor Swift, and spending time with her family and puppies.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
February 20, 2024
STOP THIS IS SO CUTE!!! I read this in like 24 hours, I couldn’t stop 😅
Thanatos was one of my favorite characters from book one and his romance with Eurydice did not disappoint!!!
If you are looking for a couple where the man loves and supports his lady and is her lil sidekick while she saves the world (using her brains no less!) then look no further THAN THIS BOOK RIGHT HERE 👏👏👏
The way the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice was reimagined in this book I thought was so interesting and well done. It kept the spirit of the original story while making changes that were surprising and fit in well with the overall themes.
I said it in my review for book one, and I’ll say it again—this series is not for anyone who wants super high stakes and high amounts of angst. These books are much more about personal healing, growth, and interpersonal relationships. Don’t get me wrong, there are stakes for sure! There was a part near the end that had me 😱😱😱 but overall the stakes are low and the communication is high!
Orpheus and Charon had such wonderful character arcs in this. If you find yourself a little irritated by them in the beginning, have no fear. These boys will come face to face with their ✨issues✨ and become better for it.
That’s the main pleasure that I find in this series. These characters are constantly healing and growing and learning and it’s absolutely delightful to read.
Lastly, all I’ll say is PHOBOS! 😮💨😱😭🥲🥺
Thanatos was one of my favorite characters from book one and his romance with Eurydice did not disappoint!!!
If you are looking for a couple where the man loves and supports his lady and is her lil sidekick while she saves the world (using her brains no less!) then look no further THAN THIS BOOK RIGHT HERE 👏👏👏
The way the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice was reimagined in this book I thought was so interesting and well done. It kept the spirit of the original story while making changes that were surprising and fit in well with the overall themes.
I said it in my review for book one, and I’ll say it again—this series is not for anyone who wants super high stakes and high amounts of angst. These books are much more about personal healing, growth, and interpersonal relationships. Don’t get me wrong, there are stakes for sure! There was a part near the end that had me 😱😱😱 but overall the stakes are low and the communication is high!
Orpheus and Charon had such wonderful character arcs in this. If you find yourself a little irritated by them in the beginning, have no fear. These boys will come face to face with their ✨issues✨ and become better for it.
That’s the main pleasure that I find in this series. These characters are constantly healing and growing and learning and it’s absolutely delightful to read.
Lastly, all I’ll say is PHOBOS! 😮💨😱😭🥲🥺
March 14, 2024
Genre: Adult Urban Fantasy Romance (Greek Myth Retelling)
2/5 🌶️
I was honored to receive an eARC of The Dance of Death. This review is honest and freely given.
This is the second book in The God’s Gambit series. Reading the first book, The Promise of Spring, is recommended before reading this one.
The Promise of Spring is a Hades x Persephone telling while The Dance of Death is dual retelling involving Eurydice and Orpheus as well as Thanatos (God of Death) and Charon (The Ferryman). The author notes there will be a novella that wraps up the stories of these couples coming March 31, 2024, but this reads as a complete book.
Tropes and themes: forced proximity, soft MMC, virgin MMC, Orpheus and Eurydice retelling alongside Charon and Thanatos, mental health representation, queer and POC characters, gods and magic, STEM FMC, learning to love and more.
Thoughts:
The Dance of Death is a cozy, low stress myth retelling that is perfect for fans of soft and endearing MMCs and brainy, empathetic FMCs.
This was a really fun, different take on the Eurydice x Orpheus myth. There were familiar elements of the original myth’s plot, but with different twist and turns that made it feel fresh.
I really enjoyed Eurydice’s lifelong infatuation with Thanatos, that only seems to grow when she’s a soul in the Underworld. I really liked the author’s vision of the Underworld where the souls have a true second life, one where Eurydice is allowed to honor her Living life while moving on with her Dead one.
Alongside Eurydice and Thanatos’s story, we see Charon and Eurydice’s mortal husband, Orpheus, have an enemies to allies arc that hints at the possibly for future romantic entanglements. I thought their friendship was adorable!
One thing I really like about this author’s mythology retellings is that the MMCs are always very soft and straightforward. Thanatos, despite being the God of Death, is a soft spoken, library loving, supportive friend and partner and it was sweet to see him realize his emotions and grow into his full potential. It was also a pleasure to read about a brainy, STEM FMC.
This book is definitely more romantic than it is sexual, so got into it knowing that smut is not the purpose of this book. It’s definitely more about personal growth. Thanatos is awfully swoony with his pretty words, though.
Definitely recommend to lovers of cozy romance and unique myth retellings!
2/5 🌶️
I was honored to receive an eARC of The Dance of Death. This review is honest and freely given.
This is the second book in The God’s Gambit series. Reading the first book, The Promise of Spring, is recommended before reading this one.
The Promise of Spring is a Hades x Persephone telling while The Dance of Death is dual retelling involving Eurydice and Orpheus as well as Thanatos (God of Death) and Charon (The Ferryman). The author notes there will be a novella that wraps up the stories of these couples coming March 31, 2024, but this reads as a complete book.
Tropes and themes: forced proximity, soft MMC, virgin MMC, Orpheus and Eurydice retelling alongside Charon and Thanatos, mental health representation, queer and POC characters, gods and magic, STEM FMC, learning to love and more.
Thoughts:
The Dance of Death is a cozy, low stress myth retelling that is perfect for fans of soft and endearing MMCs and brainy, empathetic FMCs.
This was a really fun, different take on the Eurydice x Orpheus myth. There were familiar elements of the original myth’s plot, but with different twist and turns that made it feel fresh.
I really enjoyed Eurydice’s lifelong infatuation with Thanatos, that only seems to grow when she’s a soul in the Underworld. I really liked the author’s vision of the Underworld where the souls have a true second life, one where Eurydice is allowed to honor her Living life while moving on with her Dead one.
Alongside Eurydice and Thanatos’s story, we see Charon and Eurydice’s mortal husband, Orpheus, have an enemies to allies arc that hints at the possibly for future romantic entanglements. I thought their friendship was adorable!
One thing I really like about this author’s mythology retellings is that the MMCs are always very soft and straightforward. Thanatos, despite being the God of Death, is a soft spoken, library loving, supportive friend and partner and it was sweet to see him realize his emotions and grow into his full potential. It was also a pleasure to read about a brainy, STEM FMC.
This book is definitely more romantic than it is sexual, so got into it knowing that smut is not the purpose of this book. It’s definitely more about personal growth. Thanatos is awfully swoony with his pretty words, though.
Definitely recommend to lovers of cozy romance and unique myth retellings!
March 1, 2024
Book Review: Dance of Death by Savannah James
Release date: March 14th
Synopsis: This is the 2nd book in the God’s Gambit series. While it helps to have read the first book, you would probably catch up pretty quick if you read this one as a stand-alone.
Thanatos, the God of Death, has always intended to live a solitary life in the Underworld when he isn’t cleaving souls from Earth. However, when Eurydice Martin dies, their connection is making him question everything he thought about how his life could be. Meanwhile, Eurydice questions her own fate as her mortal-life continues to demand her attention in death, and while the Underworld calls to her.
Review: The God’s Gambit series is an Urban Fantasy retelling of various characters in Greek mythology, and as someone who doesn’t know anything about mythology I picked it up pretty easily. I appreciated the beautiful love story and the found family in this book. However my favorite element is the action that is packed into the story - I really enjoy the mystery-piece in this fantasy and the build up to the third act. While the plot had some angsty moments, I’d describe this book overall as more cozy. If you’re looking for a cozy, urban, Greek-mythology retelling that is action-focused with a strong found family theme then I definitely recommend this series.
Jess’s overall enjoyment: 4/5⭐️
Spice level: 1.5/5 🌶️
Angst level: 3/5 ❤️🩹
Plot: 4/5 🗺️
Writing: 3.5/5 🖊️
Release date: March 14th
Synopsis: This is the 2nd book in the God’s Gambit series. While it helps to have read the first book, you would probably catch up pretty quick if you read this one as a stand-alone.
Thanatos, the God of Death, has always intended to live a solitary life in the Underworld when he isn’t cleaving souls from Earth. However, when Eurydice Martin dies, their connection is making him question everything he thought about how his life could be. Meanwhile, Eurydice questions her own fate as her mortal-life continues to demand her attention in death, and while the Underworld calls to her.
Review: The God’s Gambit series is an Urban Fantasy retelling of various characters in Greek mythology, and as someone who doesn’t know anything about mythology I picked it up pretty easily. I appreciated the beautiful love story and the found family in this book. However my favorite element is the action that is packed into the story - I really enjoy the mystery-piece in this fantasy and the build up to the third act. While the plot had some angsty moments, I’d describe this book overall as more cozy. If you’re looking for a cozy, urban, Greek-mythology retelling that is action-focused with a strong found family theme then I definitely recommend this series.
Jess’s overall enjoyment: 4/5⭐️
Spice level: 1.5/5 🌶️
Angst level: 3/5 ❤️🩹
Plot: 4/5 🗺️
Writing: 3.5/5 🖊️
February 29, 2024
I loved this book! I received an ARC copy and could NOT put it down. The Dance of Death is the second book in the Gods' Gambit series and a wonderful sequel to The Promise of Spring. This book really added a lot of development to the characters from the first book and made me quite attached to some in particular (*cough* Charon). Also, Eurydice reminds me of a little someone I knew in middle school (iykyk).
If you are looking for a book with no third act breakup (thank the gods), I highly recommend. As someone who never had a Greek mythology phase, this book was not daunting in terms of characters. Savannah James does an excellent job fleshing out her characters and providing enough background which makes it easy to understand for readers like me. I love how much I learn reading her books!
My favorite part of this book is the development of the conflict. I was on the edge of my seat trying to figure out what was going to happen next, and it did not disappoint. I love the plot to smut ratio and the focus of this book.
If you are looking for a book with no third act breakup (thank the gods), I highly recommend. As someone who never had a Greek mythology phase, this book was not daunting in terms of characters. Savannah James does an excellent job fleshing out her characters and providing enough background which makes it easy to understand for readers like me. I love how much I learn reading her books!
My favorite part of this book is the development of the conflict. I was on the edge of my seat trying to figure out what was going to happen next, and it did not disappoint. I love the plot to smut ratio and the focus of this book.
July 21, 2024
The second book in Savannah James’ God’s Gambit series and it is an adorably, cozy, sweet read! This is the quickest I have read a book recently, just because I couldn’t put it down. I love the modern retelling of Eurydice and Orpheus story and the incorporation of the Greek Gods. I cried, I laughed out loud and I blushed during this book. If that doesn’t tell you what kind of love story to expect, I’m not sure what will.
March 3, 2024
I read this as an ARC but the thoughts in this review are my own.
This book contained some really good points and some points that I didn't like but overall it was enjoyable and the things that brought it down were minor in comparison to the things that brought it up. From the first book, A Promise of Spring, I knew that Savannah James knew how to write a good romance story. This book also proved that she can write a good action and juggle a LOT of characters' stories in a way that feels authentic. She also didn't fall into the trap I've seen of relying too much on the previous installment of the series, while still keeping the overarching plot moving forward and proving that actions have consequences. Personally, I enjoyed Eurydice being a scientist and the differences used for how the Mortals and Immortals were explained.
The one "complaint" that I have is that I wanted more of the Orpheus/Charon romance plot but I understand why I have to wait for more on that and its for meaningful reasons. I guess if the worst I can say is I can't wait to keep reading about the world Savannah James has developed over the course of two books, it can't be too bad!
Overall, completely worth the read. I knocked out this book out fast since I couldn't stop reading. I enjoyed it immensely!
This book contained some really good points and some points that I didn't like but overall it was enjoyable and the things that brought it down were minor in comparison to the things that brought it up. From the first book, A Promise of Spring, I knew that Savannah James knew how to write a good romance story. This book also proved that she can write a good action and juggle a LOT of characters' stories in a way that feels authentic. She also didn't fall into the trap I've seen of relying too much on the previous installment of the series, while still keeping the overarching plot moving forward and proving that actions have consequences. Personally, I enjoyed Eurydice being a scientist and the differences used for how the Mortals and Immortals were explained.
The one "complaint" that I have is that I wanted more of the Orpheus/Charon romance plot but I understand why I have to wait for more on that and its for meaningful reasons. I guess if the worst I can say is I can't wait to keep reading about the world Savannah James has developed over the course of two books, it can't be too bad!
Overall, completely worth the read. I knocked out this book out fast since I couldn't stop reading. I enjoyed it immensely!
March 11, 2024
4.5 ⭐️ / 1 🌶️
“i have been alive since before the formation of language and thought, and in all that time, i have never seen someone as beautiful as Eurydice Martin. i doubted i ever will again”
this book had me smiling and so happy while reading! this reimagined modern take on the Orpheus & Eurydice myth was amazing and i loved how Thanatos and Charon are heavily involved as well. Thanatos was my favorite character from book 1 and i was so happy to hear he was the MC for book 2 and getting his own HEA. this series has amazing communication between the characters and the emotional growth of everyone had me dying to finish this book and beyond excited to see where this series goes! (The epilogue?! foreshadowing for sure 😬)
[ thank you Savannah for the ARC! this title releases on March 14th as the second installment of the God’s Gambit series and should be read after reading The Promise of Spring ]
tropes:
greek mythology retelling, cozy fantasy, found family, women in STEM, forced proximity, mental health representation, poetry loving God of Death, HEA
“i have been alive since before the formation of language and thought, and in all that time, i have never seen someone as beautiful as Eurydice Martin. i doubted i ever will again”
this book had me smiling and so happy while reading! this reimagined modern take on the Orpheus & Eurydice myth was amazing and i loved how Thanatos and Charon are heavily involved as well. Thanatos was my favorite character from book 1 and i was so happy to hear he was the MC for book 2 and getting his own HEA. this series has amazing communication between the characters and the emotional growth of everyone had me dying to finish this book and beyond excited to see where this series goes! (The epilogue?! foreshadowing for sure 😬)
[ thank you Savannah for the ARC! this title releases on March 14th as the second installment of the God’s Gambit series and should be read after reading The Promise of Spring ]
tropes:
greek mythology retelling, cozy fantasy, found family, women in STEM, forced proximity, mental health representation, poetry loving God of Death, HEA
March 4, 2024
This book felt like sitting on a windowsill, rain tapping pleasantly against the glass, while being wrapped in a wonderful blanket and enjoying your favourite hot drink. It was so incredibly cosy and warming. Beautifully written and rich with loveable characters.
I was another of the lucky ones to get an ARC of this book and it has been my life's joy over the past few days. The previous book, The Promise of Spring, had me in a chokehold. The Dance of Death had me in a safe hug that I could effortlessly melt into. Following each character and their journey was so moving and made even better by the author's carefully crafted words. I especially fell in love with Charon's development and cannot wait to see where his relationship with Orpheus goes.
The themes of death, loss, family, and acceptance were all explored charmingly. I adore this little Underworld family and truly look forward to the continuation of their stories!
I was another of the lucky ones to get an ARC of this book and it has been my life's joy over the past few days. The previous book, The Promise of Spring, had me in a chokehold. The Dance of Death had me in a safe hug that I could effortlessly melt into. Following each character and their journey was so moving and made even better by the author's carefully crafted words. I especially fell in love with Charon's development and cannot wait to see where his relationship with Orpheus goes.
The themes of death, loss, family, and acceptance were all explored charmingly. I adore this little Underworld family and truly look forward to the continuation of their stories!
December 22, 2023
I was lucky enough to be a beta reader for this book and I really enjoyed it. First off, it dealt with death in a way that was easy for me to read and did not trigger me at all. I thought the take on the Orpheus and Eurydice myth was unique and interesting how it played out. The characters were more morally grey in this book, and dealt with bigger topics of self doubt and learning to accept themselves. Also if you’re looking for a book with a hot villain, this one has got you covered. I like that there are seeds for a larger overarching plot in the series and look forward to what comes next!
March 10, 2024
I received an ARC copy of this book and really enjoyed the different take on an Orpheus/Eurydice retelling!
I'm a big myth-head so this is right up my alley. The Dance of Death is the second in The Gods Gambit series and Savannah James has once again flipped this ancient script in a way that I haven't read before.
Fantasy STEM? Dorky Death? A grouchy cottagecore ferryman to the Underworld? Yes please!
This book receives 4/5 home-cooked Charon meals. If you're looking for cozy fantasy and lower stakes myth retellings; this series is a lovely warm hug.
I'm a big myth-head so this is right up my alley. The Dance of Death is the second in The Gods Gambit series and Savannah James has once again flipped this ancient script in a way that I haven't read before.
Fantasy STEM? Dorky Death? A grouchy cottagecore ferryman to the Underworld? Yes please!
This book receives 4/5 home-cooked Charon meals. If you're looking for cozy fantasy and lower stakes myth retellings; this series is a lovely warm hug.
April 10, 2024
I debated rating this four stars. But Thanatos is such a heartwarming character, and his relationship development and healing journey with his lady love is just the sweetest that I had to bump it up a star.
I absolutely adore this book. It's sweet, cozy, and while there are stakes, they are resolved quickly and with an emphasis on growth and healing as an individual, family, etc.
Just a beautiful book that I think any cozy Underworld loving readers will enjoy.
I absolutely adore this book. It's sweet, cozy, and while there are stakes, they are resolved quickly and with an emphasis on growth and healing as an individual, family, etc.
Just a beautiful book that I think any cozy Underworld loving readers will enjoy.
December 18, 2023
I really loved this book! I thought it dealt with profound questions while also being a very sweet and spicy romance.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews