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This Immortal Heart
Not yet published
Expected 4 Jun 26From the #1 bestselling author comes an epic story of love and war as two opposing deities find themselves drawn to each other against all odds. Because when Aphrodite and Ares fall in love, sparks are bound to fly.
THIS IS THE OLDEST LOVE STORY OF ALL TIME . . .
Aphrodite, Goddess of Love, wields unparalleled power over every divine and mortal heart. Mistaken to be all beauty, no brains, she is in fact the most dangerous of all, driven by passion regardless of the consequences.
While on the surface, Ares, God of War, is her opposite –disliked by everyone and devoted to stirring up conflict – the two are more alike than they realise, each causing havoc for gods and mortals as they rule their primal realms.
These gods are no more immune to the dizzying highs and lows of love and loss than anyone else and before long, they are irresistibly drawn to one another. But there’s only so much room for fire and passion in Zeus’ kingdom, and whilst the God of War may be capable of greater love than anyone else, so may the Goddess of Love be capable of the gravest mistakes.
THIS IS THE OLDEST LOVE STORY OF ALL TIME . . .
Aphrodite, Goddess of Love, wields unparalleled power over every divine and mortal heart. Mistaken to be all beauty, no brains, she is in fact the most dangerous of all, driven by passion regardless of the consequences.
While on the surface, Ares, God of War, is her opposite –disliked by everyone and devoted to stirring up conflict – the two are more alike than they realise, each causing havoc for gods and mortals as they rule their primal realms.
These gods are no more immune to the dizzying highs and lows of love and loss than anyone else and before long, they are irresistibly drawn to one another. But there’s only so much room for fire and passion in Zeus’ kingdom, and whilst the God of War may be capable of greater love than anyone else, so may the Goddess of Love be capable of the gravest mistakes.
400 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication June 9, 2026
4757 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Saint
7 books7,149 followersJennifer Saint is a Sunday Times bestselling author. Her debut novel, ARIADNE, was shortlisted for Waterstones Book of the Year 2021 and was a finalist in the Goodreads Choice Awards Fantasy category in 2021. Her second novel, ELEKTRA, comes out in 2022 and is another retelling of Greek mythology told in the voices of the women at the heart of the ancient legends.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
January 9, 2026
As requested by the publisher, I will publish my review a week before release day. All I will say is I really enjoyed this book.
Want to read
July 20, 2025Finally... Ares
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Jennifer Saint offers an ambitious reimagining of one of Greek mythology’s most complex goddesses, but ultimately This Immortal Heart feels uneven in its execution. While there are moments of insight, the narrative arc struggles to build tension or fully explore the implications of its own creative choices.
One of the strongest aspects of the novel is the characterisation of Aphrodite herself. Saint presents her as thoughtful and observant, and there are glimpses of a more introspective goddess beneath the familiar veneer of beauty and desire. However, Aphrodite often feels frustratingly passive. Despite being positioned as a powerful, ancient deity, she frequently reacts to events rather than shaping them, which undercuts the authority and agency the narrative seems to promise. This passivity is especially noticeable in her relationship with Ares. Ares feels underdeveloped, and the emotional foundation of their relationship feels thin. There is not enough build-up to make their connection compelling, which weakens what should be one of the most dynamic and charged relationships in Greek myth.
The retelling itself is extremely loose, and while reinterpretation is expected, the degree of deviation here often diminishes the story’s stakes. The marriage narrative is significantly altered, along with Hephaestus’s character. Galatea fleeing to Artemis’ forests and becoming her lover feels trite. Moreover, Eros is already born and has no father, rather than being fathered by Ares. These choices feel arbitrary rather than purposeful. Because the story selectively reshapes mythological elements without fully committing to the consequences of those changes, it becomes difficult to feel any real tension. The plot seems to pick and choose which myths to honour based on convenience, rather than using them to build a coherent internal logic.
The decision to make Aphrodite the daughter of Ouranos rather than Zeus is one of the more intriguing decisions, but it is not explored deeply enough. This origin should give Aphrodite a vastly different perspective from the Olympians—particularly given her references to being older than Ares and other gods. However, the calamity of her birth feels more like an afterthought than a defining aspect of her character. It rarely informs her decision-making or worldview in a meaningful way. Instead of delving into this unique perspective, the novel often falls back on extended sequences of plotting and name-dropping minor mythological figures—what readers have come to expect from Greek myth retellings, but without enough variation or emotional payoff to make them feel fresh. Without stronger character-driven tension or clearer thematic focus, these sections begin to feel repetitive.
Overall, while the novel has an interesting premise and a solid central character, it lacks narrative tension and emotional stakes. The looseness of the retelling, combined with underdeveloped relationships and missed opportunities for deeper character exploration, prevents the arc from fully realising its potential.
I received an advance review copy for free via NetGalley. I am leaving this review voluntarily 📚.
One of the strongest aspects of the novel is the characterisation of Aphrodite herself. Saint presents her as thoughtful and observant, and there are glimpses of a more introspective goddess beneath the familiar veneer of beauty and desire. However, Aphrodite often feels frustratingly passive. Despite being positioned as a powerful, ancient deity, she frequently reacts to events rather than shaping them, which undercuts the authority and agency the narrative seems to promise. This passivity is especially noticeable in her relationship with Ares. Ares feels underdeveloped, and the emotional foundation of their relationship feels thin. There is not enough build-up to make their connection compelling, which weakens what should be one of the most dynamic and charged relationships in Greek myth.
The retelling itself is extremely loose, and while reinterpretation is expected, the degree of deviation here often diminishes the story’s stakes. The marriage narrative is significantly altered, along with Hephaestus’s character. Galatea fleeing to Artemis’ forests and becoming her lover feels trite. Moreover, Eros is already born and has no father, rather than being fathered by Ares. These choices feel arbitrary rather than purposeful. Because the story selectively reshapes mythological elements without fully committing to the consequences of those changes, it becomes difficult to feel any real tension. The plot seems to pick and choose which myths to honour based on convenience, rather than using them to build a coherent internal logic.
The decision to make Aphrodite the daughter of Ouranos rather than Zeus is one of the more intriguing decisions, but it is not explored deeply enough. This origin should give Aphrodite a vastly different perspective from the Olympians—particularly given her references to being older than Ares and other gods. However, the calamity of her birth feels more like an afterthought than a defining aspect of her character. It rarely informs her decision-making or worldview in a meaningful way. Instead of delving into this unique perspective, the novel often falls back on extended sequences of plotting and name-dropping minor mythological figures—what readers have come to expect from Greek myth retellings, but without enough variation or emotional payoff to make them feel fresh. Without stronger character-driven tension or clearer thematic focus, these sections begin to feel repetitive.
Overall, while the novel has an interesting premise and a solid central character, it lacks narrative tension and emotional stakes. The looseness of the retelling, combined with underdeveloped relationships and missed opportunities for deeper character exploration, prevents the arc from fully realising its potential.
I received an advance review copy for free via NetGalley. I am leaving this review voluntarily 📚.
February 10, 2026
This retelling was a breath of fresh air, I’m so happy Jennifer chose to write a gentle Aphrodite. Usually portrayed as haughty and self obsessed it was refreshing to see her reimagined as kind and somewhat naive.
Hephaestus usually surly and abrupt is shy and a little awkward where Ares is harsh and uncompromising.
I was a little sad to see Hera back to being typecast as jealous and quarrelsome again after loving her story so much, though it is Aphrodite’s POV so I suppose that’s fair. But guess what every retelling continues to agree on? Zeus is still a prick.
As for the story, the tension between Aphrodite and Ares in part one is nothing short of exquisite. The events leading to the inevitable marriage in part two were a great take on the story, in fact this felt like a retelling of a retelling exploring different motivations with softer eyes and I actually loved this version so much.
This was such an enjoyable read, I sped through it and I already can’t wait to see who gets the Saint treatment next. (Athena PLEASE) 🙏🏼
Hephaestus usually surly and abrupt is shy and a little awkward where Ares is harsh and uncompromising.
I was a little sad to see Hera back to being typecast as jealous and quarrelsome again after loving her story so much, though it is Aphrodite’s POV so I suppose that’s fair. But guess what every retelling continues to agree on? Zeus is still a prick.
As for the story, the tension between Aphrodite and Ares in part one is nothing short of exquisite. The events leading to the inevitable marriage in part two were a great take on the story, in fact this felt like a retelling of a retelling exploring different motivations with softer eyes and I actually loved this version so much.
This was such an enjoyable read, I sped through it and I already can’t wait to see who gets the Saint treatment next. (Athena PLEASE) 🙏🏼
January 4, 2026
Saint writes so well about Greek mythology and with particular emphasis on the female perspective, a genre which has given us some great novels from the likes of Natalie Haynes, Pat Barker and my current favourite Claire North.
This book centres on Aphrodite (intriguing fact: this is the first of her books which does not have the central character’s name as its title) and particularly her relationship with Ares and Hephaestus.
The insights are interesting - Aphrodite is more excited and interested in the fate of mortals than her fellow gods. Events are based on established mythology and we meet well known characters like Pandora, Adonis, Eros and the Amazons within the narrative.
However, the central relationship isn’t fully convincing and events tend to be rather episodic. That doesn’t mean they’re any less entertaining though and it will be interesting to see which character becomes the focus in Saint’s next novel.
Athena is seen by Aphrodite as austere and one-dimensional so surely deserves an opportunity to present her own view of the world!
(I was given an advance copy in exchange for an honest review)
This book centres on Aphrodite (intriguing fact: this is the first of her books which does not have the central character’s name as its title) and particularly her relationship with Ares and Hephaestus.
The insights are interesting - Aphrodite is more excited and interested in the fate of mortals than her fellow gods. Events are based on established mythology and we meet well known characters like Pandora, Adonis, Eros and the Amazons within the narrative.
However, the central relationship isn’t fully convincing and events tend to be rather episodic. That doesn’t mean they’re any less entertaining though and it will be interesting to see which character becomes the focus in Saint’s next novel.
Athena is seen by Aphrodite as austere and one-dimensional so surely deserves an opportunity to present her own view of the world!
(I was given an advance copy in exchange for an honest review)
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This Immortal Heart
A Novel of Aphrodite by Jennifer Saint
Pub Date Jun 09 2026
This Immortal Heart is a book about Aphrodite and Ares. Told through Aphrodite's POV. I like Jennifer Saint's writing and have enjoyed a few of her books. I've never been academic about how I write reviews. If I enjoyed the book, it was entertaining, it flowed well, the characters weren't annoying, and I finished it without wanting to put it down; that's a win for me. This book is a 4-5 star read. I love mythology and retellings. Did I LOVE Aphrodite? Not really. She was her, and her nature made her behave and think in certain ways. I liked that her character made sense. She's the goddess of love. She's strong and loves her followers. This is a story about her, Ares, her followers, Hephestus, and the politics of the Olympian Gods. Zeus is, of course, the universal A-hole. There really is no way to spin that one to make him any different. Ares and Hephestus, I really liked. They were true to their nature. They both had a past that shaped them and put them on different paths. Which I suspect is all of us.
Reading as Aphrodite weaved through life and the politics of Olympian court life while staying true to her core was interesting. The story flowed well. It is not a long read. Well paced.
Thank you, NetGalley and Ballantine | Ballantine Books, for this galley. I was under no obligation to leave a review. All opinions are my own.
A Novel of Aphrodite by Jennifer Saint
Pub Date Jun 09 2026
This Immortal Heart is a book about Aphrodite and Ares. Told through Aphrodite's POV. I like Jennifer Saint's writing and have enjoyed a few of her books. I've never been academic about how I write reviews. If I enjoyed the book, it was entertaining, it flowed well, the characters weren't annoying, and I finished it without wanting to put it down; that's a win for me. This book is a 4-5 star read. I love mythology and retellings. Did I LOVE Aphrodite? Not really. She was her, and her nature made her behave and think in certain ways. I liked that her character made sense. She's the goddess of love. She's strong and loves her followers. This is a story about her, Ares, her followers, Hephestus, and the politics of the Olympian Gods. Zeus is, of course, the universal A-hole. There really is no way to spin that one to make him any different. Ares and Hephestus, I really liked. They were true to their nature. They both had a past that shaped them and put them on different paths. Which I suspect is all of us.
Reading as Aphrodite weaved through life and the politics of Olympian court life while staying true to her core was interesting. The story flowed well. It is not a long read. Well paced.
Thank you, NetGalley and Ballantine | Ballantine Books, for this galley. I was under no obligation to leave a review. All opinions are my own.
January 6, 2026
I generally enjoy Greek myth retellings and I found this one interesting in its focus on Aphrodite and intra-Olympian politicking. The story lacked emotional resonance for me, however, and the character development felt a little flat. Maybe it’s too tall an order to make the gods of Mount Olympus relatable, but none of the main characters really came alive for me and so their trials and tribulations left me only mildly interested. The pacing also struck me as slightly off, with the Scythia portion of the story compressed right at the end despite the considerable narrative weight it was meant to hold, and the Adonis storyline being so brief as to have virtually no impact on the reader.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the advance reader copy.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the advance reader copy.
February 23, 2026
This is a really beautiful retelling, I loved the prose and characterization. I knew a little bit about Aphrodite going into the book, specifically her relationship with Hephaestus, but didn’t know much at all about her and Ares. This portrayal of the intensity and longing in their relationship has such a great payoff.
The pacing felt a bit choppy at times, more like a bunch of shorter stories about Aphrodite melded into one. Despite the ending feeling a bit rushed, it was still satisfying. I couldn’t put this down!
The pacing felt a bit choppy at times, more like a bunch of shorter stories about Aphrodite melded into one. Despite the ending feeling a bit rushed, it was still satisfying. I couldn’t put this down!
Want to read
December 23, 2025aphrodite and ares??? hell yes
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Firstly, thank you to NetGalley for the eARC!
I am a huge Greek Mythology fan, and have read many tales spanning the Greek Gods and Goddesses and their stories, strifes, loves and losses, and when I saw the ARC for this, I jumped at the chance!
I absolutely devoured the story of Aphrodite, I knew about her marriage to Hephaestus, and her love affair (Is it really, though???) with Ares. What part didn't sit right with me was her utter despondence when things broke off with him. Aphrodite is the Goddess of Love, and she is known for her lovers. I guess being the Goddess of Love doesn't spare you from heartbreak, though, does it?
I also feel the story paints Hephaestus in a much lighter and fluffier light, from the tales it's a stark difference, but I can see what Saint was going for, wanting to keep the story light. In the true myth, their marriage is not so amicable or friendly, and ends quite badly. Regardless of this, I absolutely devoured this book. The story is vivid, the emotions are tangible and I just couldn't put it down for love nor money.
I love Saint's style of writing, and her ability to capture her audience and keep you hooked is second to none. Amazing, an easy 5 stars for this.
I am a huge Greek Mythology fan, and have read many tales spanning the Greek Gods and Goddesses and their stories, strifes, loves and losses, and when I saw the ARC for this, I jumped at the chance!
I absolutely devoured the story of Aphrodite, I knew about her marriage to Hephaestus, and her love affair (Is it really, though???) with Ares. What part didn't sit right with me was her utter despondence when things broke off with him. Aphrodite is the Goddess of Love, and she is known for her lovers. I guess being the Goddess of Love doesn't spare you from heartbreak, though, does it?
I also feel the story paints Hephaestus in a much lighter and fluffier light, from the tales it's a stark difference, but I can see what Saint was going for, wanting to keep the story light. In the true myth, their marriage is not so amicable or friendly, and ends quite badly. Regardless of this, I absolutely devoured this book. The story is vivid, the emotions are tangible and I just couldn't put it down for love nor money.
I love Saint's style of writing, and her ability to capture her audience and keep you hooked is second to none. Amazing, an easy 5 stars for this.
Read
February 4, 2026EARC LET'S GOOOOOOOOOO
February 4, 2026
ARC review—thank you Ballantine books for the digital copy via NetGalley!
Solid 4 star read. Jennifer Saint can do no wrong to me! Two fierce gods, uncompromising in their beliefs fall in love? Ya I’m sold. It was very Romeo and Juliet star crossed lovers and I enjoyed every minute of it.
There are a few reasons why I read this book in under 24 hours:
Readability: Jennifer Saint writes books that are easy to immediately fall into. I was immersed in this story specifically because of the sensuality of the prose. Everything used to describe Aphrodite or her actions was based on her senses which means I could taste the ambrosia, feel the fluttering of hearts and shuttering of earth as she walked through villages, and smell the ripening fruit and smoke from her altars
Character development:Aphrodite and Ares could easily be one dimensional characters because we know them by their functions alone in Greek mythology. Aphrodite is the goddess of love which could make her shallow or naive but she grows into a thoughtful mediator of the heart and comes to understand there are so many different forms of love and that lust is not love. Love takes commitment and care. Ares could be the furious wrathful god of war but through Saint’s writing we get a softer simp side to him which makes their love story more believable. I also love the idea that they’re two sides of the same coin—both in the business of passion and destruction
Plot: Even thought we studied these myths in school, Saint makes them come alive on the page for us in way that feel fresh and vibrant. Her signature showcasing of feminine rage leads the way as Aphrodite experiences the consequences of meddling gods and men who have unchecked power. It’s also front and center when we get to the story of the Amazons (such a nice touch) and their unique way of life. This may be the first HEA I’ve read in a JS book and I loved the second chance romance of it all.
My 1 star off is based on a personal preference in how the plot unfurled: [minor spoiler] I wish that as Aphrodite’s power waned and she realized it’s because she wasn’t experiencing true love that that’s when she received the call from Scythia. I don’t want to say it cheapened her love for Ares to have her side quest with Adonis but to charis’ point it felt like a bandaid solution or running away from her actual problems instead of facing them. In the end though I got what I wanted (Ares + Aphrodite forever!!!)
Solid 4 star read. Jennifer Saint can do no wrong to me! Two fierce gods, uncompromising in their beliefs fall in love? Ya I’m sold. It was very Romeo and Juliet star crossed lovers and I enjoyed every minute of it.
There are a few reasons why I read this book in under 24 hours:
Readability: Jennifer Saint writes books that are easy to immediately fall into. I was immersed in this story specifically because of the sensuality of the prose. Everything used to describe Aphrodite or her actions was based on her senses which means I could taste the ambrosia, feel the fluttering of hearts and shuttering of earth as she walked through villages, and smell the ripening fruit and smoke from her altars
Character development:Aphrodite and Ares could easily be one dimensional characters because we know them by their functions alone in Greek mythology. Aphrodite is the goddess of love which could make her shallow or naive but she grows into a thoughtful mediator of the heart and comes to understand there are so many different forms of love and that lust is not love. Love takes commitment and care. Ares could be the furious wrathful god of war but through Saint’s writing we get a softer simp side to him which makes their love story more believable. I also love the idea that they’re two sides of the same coin—both in the business of passion and destruction
Plot: Even thought we studied these myths in school, Saint makes them come alive on the page for us in way that feel fresh and vibrant. Her signature showcasing of feminine rage leads the way as Aphrodite experiences the consequences of meddling gods and men who have unchecked power. It’s also front and center when we get to the story of the Amazons (such a nice touch) and their unique way of life. This may be the first HEA I’ve read in a JS book and I loved the second chance romance of it all.
My 1 star off is based on a personal preference in how the plot unfurled: [minor spoiler] I wish that as Aphrodite’s power waned and she realized it’s because she wasn’t experiencing true love that that’s when she received the call from Scythia. I don’t want to say it cheapened her love for Ares to have her side quest with Adonis but to charis’ point it felt like a bandaid solution or running away from her actual problems instead of facing them. In the end though I got what I wanted (Ares + Aphrodite forever!!!)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Firstly, an absolutely humongous thank you to Viking Books for sending me an ARC of this book. It is my most anticipated read of this year and I cannot tell you how happy you have made me.
Secondly, I don't think I'm jumping the gun to say this will be my favourite read of the year. I have loved every book Jennifer Saint has written so far, but This Immortal Heart just became my absolute favourite of all her books.
Saint has a way with words that makes these well known myths brand new, gripping and so emotive. I could easily cry just thinking about it. I've read a few versions of the Greek myths and I mostly find the gods unlikable. Not in Saint's books. I have completely fallen in love with Aphrodite and Ares! Reading their love story brought me heartache and joy alike, and I think Ares may be my favourite of the all the gods now.
In this book, Aphrodite, the Goddess of Love, is full of passion and devoted to her followers. I liked her immediately and enjoyed getting her perspective on life on Olympus with the other Gods. Ares was much more mysterious. He spent little time on Olympus because his father is Zeus and, to be fair, you can't blame him for wanting to have a little contact with him as possible!
When Aphrodite and Ares come together, it looks like a classic case of opposites attract but it's deeper than that. Ares is so much more caring and kind that his domain as the God of war would have you believe. The two share more values than you'd expect and their passion for each other is beautiful and heart warming.
Without giving too much away for anyone who hasn't read the myths, I knew what was to come with Aphrodite and Hephaestus (who is also a lot more likeable and gentle in this retelling than the myths themselves) but knowing it was coming didn't prevent the heartbreak and pure rage I felt on Aphrodites behalf.
I felt like I was living everything as Aphrodite was, walking in her shoes and feeling it all!! Then the ending... again, trying not to give anything away, but it ends perfectly! I couldn't have asked for any more.
This book is now my favourite of all the Greek mythology retellings I've read and loved. I will be recommending this book to all Greek mythology lovers, all romance lovers, all fantasy lovers... everyone really!! And I know I'll be rereading it many times in the future.
Secondly, I don't think I'm jumping the gun to say this will be my favourite read of the year. I have loved every book Jennifer Saint has written so far, but This Immortal Heart just became my absolute favourite of all her books.
Saint has a way with words that makes these well known myths brand new, gripping and so emotive. I could easily cry just thinking about it. I've read a few versions of the Greek myths and I mostly find the gods unlikable. Not in Saint's books. I have completely fallen in love with Aphrodite and Ares! Reading their love story brought me heartache and joy alike, and I think Ares may be my favourite of the all the gods now.
In this book, Aphrodite, the Goddess of Love, is full of passion and devoted to her followers. I liked her immediately and enjoyed getting her perspective on life on Olympus with the other Gods. Ares was much more mysterious. He spent little time on Olympus because his father is Zeus and, to be fair, you can't blame him for wanting to have a little contact with him as possible!
When Aphrodite and Ares come together, it looks like a classic case of opposites attract but it's deeper than that. Ares is so much more caring and kind that his domain as the God of war would have you believe. The two share more values than you'd expect and their passion for each other is beautiful and heart warming.
Without giving too much away for anyone who hasn't read the myths, I knew what was to come with Aphrodite and Hephaestus (who is also a lot more likeable and gentle in this retelling than the myths themselves) but knowing it was coming didn't prevent the heartbreak and pure rage I felt on Aphrodites behalf.
I felt like I was living everything as Aphrodite was, walking in her shoes and feeling it all!! Then the ending... again, trying not to give anything away, but it ends perfectly! I couldn't have asked for any more.
This book is now my favourite of all the Greek mythology retellings I've read and loved. I will be recommending this book to all Greek mythology lovers, all romance lovers, all fantasy lovers... everyone really!! And I know I'll be rereading it many times in the future.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Click here for my full review.
Thank you to Penguin for providing this ARC via Netgalley.
“Gods need worship, and mortals need stories.”
Are you a reader or an author? That might be the fundamental question of myth retellings. The genre’s protagonists, such as Pat Barker’s Briseis or Ariadne in Saint’s debut novel, are often women constrained powerful men: like the books’ readers, they can’t change the outcome of a dated and uncomfortable text, only observe with horror.
Not so with Aphrodite. While beholden to Zeus’ will, Saint’s adaptation grants her the power to challenge him—and the myths we seemingly know. Ovid tells the story of the sculptor Pygmalion, whose love for a statue he creates causes Aphrodite to give it life as the maiden Galatea. But Saint shows us the all-too-plausible aftermath: believing he’s favoured by the gods, Pygmalion grows vain and misogynistic, and Aphrodite grants Galatea courage to leave him. “I have plenty of power,” thinks Aphrodite, “here is the chance to use it for something worthwhile.”
Saint’s goddess isn’t just a reader, but an author. When Zeus uses Pandora to punish humanity, Aphrodite ensures Pandora and her husband Epimetheus find safe haven elsewhere: “It’s love that I care about more than anything else, and Zeus can’t destroy that,” Aphrodite thinks. The philosophy behind retellings can’t get more obvious: the patriarchal tyrant Zeus spinning misogynistic stories, Aphrodite’s intervention adding new dimensions.
But the novel’s pace flags halfway, with an increasingly constrained Aphrodite living out predictable versions of stories like the death of Adonis. THIS IMMORTAL HEART rallies with its conclusion, a compelling justification of her love for the god of war Ares, but never revives its first act’s sense of daring.
Maybe that’s the point: showing Aphrodite’s storytelling being diminished, revealing how she’s vulnerable despite her power. That’s a tragic note which THIS IMMORTAL HEART strikes effectively. However, it’s in those earlier scenes of a boldly authorial Aphrodite where we can see Saint’s unique vision at play...
“Gods need worship, and mortals need stories.”
Are you a reader or an author? That might be the fundamental question of myth retellings. The genre’s protagonists, such as Pat Barker’s Briseis or Ariadne in Saint’s debut novel, are often women constrained powerful men: like the books’ readers, they can’t change the outcome of a dated and uncomfortable text, only observe with horror.
Not so with Aphrodite. While beholden to Zeus’ will, Saint’s adaptation grants her the power to challenge him—and the myths we seemingly know. Ovid tells the story of the sculptor Pygmalion, whose love for a statue he creates causes Aphrodite to give it life as the maiden Galatea. But Saint shows us the all-too-plausible aftermath: believing he’s favoured by the gods, Pygmalion grows vain and misogynistic, and Aphrodite grants Galatea courage to leave him. “I have plenty of power,” thinks Aphrodite, “here is the chance to use it for something worthwhile.”
Saint’s goddess isn’t just a reader, but an author. When Zeus uses Pandora to punish humanity, Aphrodite ensures Pandora and her husband Epimetheus find safe haven elsewhere: “It’s love that I care about more than anything else, and Zeus can’t destroy that,” Aphrodite thinks. The philosophy behind retellings can’t get more obvious: the patriarchal tyrant Zeus spinning misogynistic stories, Aphrodite’s intervention adding new dimensions.
But the novel’s pace flags halfway, with an increasingly constrained Aphrodite living out predictable versions of stories like the death of Adonis. THIS IMMORTAL HEART rallies with its conclusion, a compelling justification of her love for the god of war Ares, but never revives its first act’s sense of daring.
Maybe that’s the point: showing Aphrodite’s storytelling being diminished, revealing how she’s vulnerable despite her power. That’s a tragic note which THIS IMMORTAL HEART strikes effectively. However, it’s in those earlier scenes of a boldly authorial Aphrodite where we can see Saint’s unique vision at play...
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This Immortal Heart is the tale of Aphrodite, Goddess of Love, and Are, God of War. On one hand we have Aphrodite, ruling over the loves and lusts of every heart, be it mortal or divine. Ruled by passion and desire, she strives to bring love and beauty to the world. Ares, on the other hand, inspires destruction, chaos and often fear. Two more different beings couldn't exist, and yet they are destined to come together...
First of all, I want to state that I adore Jennifer Saint's writing, and when I was accepted for this ARC I was thrilled. And I was not disappointed - she has done it again! The story is immersive, rich and encompassing, and I struggled to put it down. I adore a Greek mythology retelling, and I was not familiar with Aphrodite and Are's story beforehand, so it came as surprise to me how the tale unfolded.
Aphrodite is vital and passionate, emphatic, driven and loyal. She is as devoted to her followers as they are to her, and her dedication is admirable. She is not merely the Goddess of Love as she has come to be known recently, she is so much more than that. She also encompasses so many other traits - fury, responsibility, compassion, vulnerability, dedication. She reflects facets of womanhood that we all embody, given the opportunity. She struggles with her feelings and comprehension of the world around her in a very human way. Her relationship with Ares has her questioning her own feelings and thoughts, and makes her so accessible - not just a Goddess, but a person. And as Aphrodite struggles with her feelings, so does Ares - after all, he was created for destruction, not love. The fact that even Gods and Goddesses have doubts and concerns was somewhat comforting to me as a reader, and made me feel I understood them better.
This book is beautifully written, with wonderful descriptions of Mount Olympus and the wider world portrayed in Greek mythology. It's explorations of love, conflict, desire and anger are wonderfully done, and I can't wait to own a physical copy of this wonderful book for my selves.
First of all, I want to state that I adore Jennifer Saint's writing, and when I was accepted for this ARC I was thrilled. And I was not disappointed - she has done it again! The story is immersive, rich and encompassing, and I struggled to put it down. I adore a Greek mythology retelling, and I was not familiar with Aphrodite and Are's story beforehand, so it came as surprise to me how the tale unfolded.
Aphrodite is vital and passionate, emphatic, driven and loyal. She is as devoted to her followers as they are to her, and her dedication is admirable. She is not merely the Goddess of Love as she has come to be known recently, she is so much more than that. She also encompasses so many other traits - fury, responsibility, compassion, vulnerability, dedication. She reflects facets of womanhood that we all embody, given the opportunity. She struggles with her feelings and comprehension of the world around her in a very human way. Her relationship with Ares has her questioning her own feelings and thoughts, and makes her so accessible - not just a Goddess, but a person. And as Aphrodite struggles with her feelings, so does Ares - after all, he was created for destruction, not love. The fact that even Gods and Goddesses have doubts and concerns was somewhat comforting to me as a reader, and made me feel I understood them better.
This book is beautifully written, with wonderful descriptions of Mount Olympus and the wider world portrayed in Greek mythology. It's explorations of love, conflict, desire and anger are wonderfully done, and I can't wait to own a physical copy of this wonderful book for my selves.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to Net Galley and Penguin UK books for letting me read Jennifer Saint’s This Immortal Heart before its publication date in exchange for an honest review!
Saint continues her retellings of female characters derived from Greek Mythology with possibly the most famous Goddess of all, Aphrodite. For some unknown reason, she/her publishers have decided to abandon her tradition of titling these novels with the protagonist’s first name, and instead she’s opted to call this one ‘This Immortal Heart’ so it won’t match my collection on the bookshelf – this is incredibly annoying, why choose a theme for 4 novels then change it now?!
Despite my annoyance, this novel explores the romance between Aphrodite and Ares and the dangerous political games the Gods of Mount Olympus play to entertain their ranks. The narrative is balanced with character driven and plot driven devices. Aphrodite is passionate, she cares so much for the mortals she interacts with and it was interesting reading how difficult it can be attracting all the Gods and wanting them to do her bidding while keeping them at arm’s length to protect herself. I have very little knowledge about Greek Mythology, so I cannot comment about how true to tale this retelling is, but I felt dreadful for Hephaestus and I hope in another tale he gets a happy ending.
I loved the love story between Aphrodite and Ares, I thought their story was great and his love for her was well expressed. His level of devotion was so romantic, willing to lose everything at a chance of living without the God’s expectations of him or his responsibilities to be with Aphrodite. I would have liked to have more discussion about Aphrodite’s backstory and her beginnings, like how Ariadne’s story provides us with more backstory. I suppose because her myth is so popular maybe it felt this was unneeded.
Overall this was a lovely read, dead easy to get into but I just didn’t enjoy it as much as her previous novels, I didn’t feel as emotionally attached to Aphrodite as I have with other characters like Ariadne and Cassandra.
Saint continues her retellings of female characters derived from Greek Mythology with possibly the most famous Goddess of all, Aphrodite. For some unknown reason, she/her publishers have decided to abandon her tradition of titling these novels with the protagonist’s first name, and instead she’s opted to call this one ‘This Immortal Heart’ so it won’t match my collection on the bookshelf – this is incredibly annoying, why choose a theme for 4 novels then change it now?!
Despite my annoyance, this novel explores the romance between Aphrodite and Ares and the dangerous political games the Gods of Mount Olympus play to entertain their ranks. The narrative is balanced with character driven and plot driven devices. Aphrodite is passionate, she cares so much for the mortals she interacts with and it was interesting reading how difficult it can be attracting all the Gods and wanting them to do her bidding while keeping them at arm’s length to protect herself. I have very little knowledge about Greek Mythology, so I cannot comment about how true to tale this retelling is, but I felt dreadful for Hephaestus and I hope in another tale he gets a happy ending.
I loved the love story between Aphrodite and Ares, I thought their story was great and his love for her was well expressed. His level of devotion was so romantic, willing to lose everything at a chance of living without the God’s expectations of him or his responsibilities to be with Aphrodite. I would have liked to have more discussion about Aphrodite’s backstory and her beginnings, like how Ariadne’s story provides us with more backstory. I suppose because her myth is so popular maybe it felt this was unneeded.
Overall this was a lovely read, dead easy to get into but I just didn’t enjoy it as much as her previous novels, I didn’t feel as emotionally attached to Aphrodite as I have with other characters like Ariadne and Cassandra.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley for this arc!
“They can destroy everything in existence, but only I have the power to make life worth living in the first place. “
There is a thin line between love and hate, and I think This Immortal Heart by Jennifer Saint explores that line through the contrast of anger and desire. Saint’s writing in this book is lyrical and slow, it feels like it mirrors the languid haze of a gods life, stretched out over the blink of a mortals life.
This story explores Aphrodite’s relationship with lust, desire, and her own romances. It makes it clear that while she loves love, she is not the Goddess of marriage; she wants passion and skin coming together under the moonlight, even if it isn't destined to last. Saint avoids the cliché of the fickle, arrogant goddess, instead painting her as caring and intentional, yet refreshingly imperfect.
The dynamic between Aphrodite and Ares is the perfect storm. While she is sensuality and flesh, he is armor and violence, yet they discover they are two sides of the same coin. The contrast with her husband, Hephaestus, is striking: Hephaestus is like a cool, pleasant spring that she could sink into and lose herself in forever, while Ares is the adrenaline of climbing a volcano, never knowing if you’ll conquer it or fall in.
The book’s greatest strength is Aphrodite’s evolution and watching her realize that a fleeting desire, no matter how strong, can ruin a human life. It was nice to see her realize that love deserves intention and for her to be intentional. However, this focus on Aphrodite’s empowerment felt like it came at a cost to other characters. Specifically, the portrayal of Artemis felt jarring. If the goal was to show how people are wrong about Aphrodite, it felt counterintuitive to strip Artemis of her fundamental backbone just to make her fit Aphrodite's mold. It felt weird to take away one goddess's identity to serve the narrative of another
“They can destroy everything in existence, but only I have the power to make life worth living in the first place. “
There is a thin line between love and hate, and I think This Immortal Heart by Jennifer Saint explores that line through the contrast of anger and desire. Saint’s writing in this book is lyrical and slow, it feels like it mirrors the languid haze of a gods life, stretched out over the blink of a mortals life.
This story explores Aphrodite’s relationship with lust, desire, and her own romances. It makes it clear that while she loves love, she is not the Goddess of marriage; she wants passion and skin coming together under the moonlight, even if it isn't destined to last. Saint avoids the cliché of the fickle, arrogant goddess, instead painting her as caring and intentional, yet refreshingly imperfect.
The dynamic between Aphrodite and Ares is the perfect storm. While she is sensuality and flesh, he is armor and violence, yet they discover they are two sides of the same coin. The contrast with her husband, Hephaestus, is striking: Hephaestus is like a cool, pleasant spring that she could sink into and lose herself in forever, while Ares is the adrenaline of climbing a volcano, never knowing if you’ll conquer it or fall in.
The book’s greatest strength is Aphrodite’s evolution and watching her realize that a fleeting desire, no matter how strong, can ruin a human life. It was nice to see her realize that love deserves intention and for her to be intentional. However, this focus on Aphrodite’s empowerment felt like it came at a cost to other characters. Specifically, the portrayal of Artemis felt jarring. If the goal was to show how people are wrong about Aphrodite, it felt counterintuitive to strip Artemis of her fundamental backbone just to make her fit Aphrodite's mold. It felt weird to take away one goddess's identity to serve the narrative of another
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This Immortal Heart is an enchanting journey into the divine world of love and war. From the moment Aphrodite emerges fully formed from the sea, her stunning beauty and ancient power are utterly mesmerizing ✨💖. The author captures her essence with such finesse—she’s both a fierce goddess and a deeply emotional being, wielding influence over gods and mortals alike with grace and cunning.
The chemistry between Aphrodite and Ares is absolutely electric ⚡💘. Their tumultuous relationship, filled with fiery passion and intense conflict, kept me hooked from start to finish. I loved how their love story spans mortal lifetimes, giving a timeless, epic feel to their union. It’s a beautifully written exploration of love that defies gods and mortals alike, reminding us that even the divine can struggle with vulnerability and desire 💫🌹.
What truly stood out was how the story delves into themes of power, purpose, and the sacrifices we make for love. Aphrodite’s internal battle, her questioning of the gods’ games and her role within Olympus, felt so relatable and inspiring, especially as she begins to test her own limits and challenge the divine order ✨💭. The author’s portrayal of her growth is both empowering and emotional, making her journey all the more compelling.
The prose is lush and evocative, bringing to life the glimmering halls of Olympus, the stormy battles of gods, and the tender moments of love and loss with equal beauty. It’s a story that balances grandeur with intimacy, making it perfect for anyone who loves epic mythology with a romantic heart 💕📚.
Absolutely recommend for those who enjoy a sophisticated blend of myth, passion, and divine intrigue. This book is a true gem, capturing the complexity of love and power in a way that feels both timeless and profoundly human 💖🌟.
The chemistry between Aphrodite and Ares is absolutely electric ⚡💘. Their tumultuous relationship, filled with fiery passion and intense conflict, kept me hooked from start to finish. I loved how their love story spans mortal lifetimes, giving a timeless, epic feel to their union. It’s a beautifully written exploration of love that defies gods and mortals alike, reminding us that even the divine can struggle with vulnerability and desire 💫🌹.
What truly stood out was how the story delves into themes of power, purpose, and the sacrifices we make for love. Aphrodite’s internal battle, her questioning of the gods’ games and her role within Olympus, felt so relatable and inspiring, especially as she begins to test her own limits and challenge the divine order ✨💭. The author’s portrayal of her growth is both empowering and emotional, making her journey all the more compelling.
The prose is lush and evocative, bringing to life the glimmering halls of Olympus, the stormy battles of gods, and the tender moments of love and loss with equal beauty. It’s a story that balances grandeur with intimacy, making it perfect for anyone who loves epic mythology with a romantic heart 💕📚.
Absolutely recommend for those who enjoy a sophisticated blend of myth, passion, and divine intrigue. This book is a true gem, capturing the complexity of love and power in a way that feels both timeless and profoundly human 💖🌟.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Aphrodite is more than the goddess of love but a goddess who perseveres for her people and desires. She is an empathetic goddess who truly fights for what she believes in. The writing is descriptive and immerses you into the mythology of Ares and Aphrodite with a modern twist. There is a new voice given to Aphrodite that depicts her as stronger than ever before. What does it mean to have a divine purpose and to stray against your mystical destiny? A love story written in blood and feminist themes.
The ocean is vast of mystery in which Saint greatly integrated that vision with Aphrodite’s personality. The character developed of the goddess and gods are well written with in-depth research into their psyche. These are characters written as they were intended with a feminist lens. Love is a complicated emotion that stems past the relationships we create – it is a distinctive sentiment that extends into the way we interact with the world and respond to situations. Aphrodite is fiery and intense as she wages a war to fight for her desires.
I am always picky about my romance narratives and I appreciate one that is full of battles, well- developed characters, and woman who truly find their voice in themselves. How do we find love when we have not reconciled what we want against the human condition. Is love conditional or something we embrace as a reflection of desires? Thank you Jennifer Saint, Ballantine Books, and Netgalley for this advanced digital copy. All opinions are my own.
For more recommendations, reviews, and tarot readings, check out my blog https://brujerialibrary.wordpress.com/
The ocean is vast of mystery in which Saint greatly integrated that vision with Aphrodite’s personality. The character developed of the goddess and gods are well written with in-depth research into their psyche. These are characters written as they were intended with a feminist lens. Love is a complicated emotion that stems past the relationships we create – it is a distinctive sentiment that extends into the way we interact with the world and respond to situations. Aphrodite is fiery and intense as she wages a war to fight for her desires.
I am always picky about my romance narratives and I appreciate one that is full of battles, well- developed characters, and woman who truly find their voice in themselves. How do we find love when we have not reconciled what we want against the human condition. Is love conditional or something we embrace as a reflection of desires? Thank you Jennifer Saint, Ballantine Books, and Netgalley for this advanced digital copy. All opinions are my own.
For more recommendations, reviews, and tarot readings, check out my blog https://brujerialibrary.wordpress.com/
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
A beautiful, loving retelling of the Greek Goddess, Aphrodite, filled with longing, tension, and a truer feeling than the original mythology.
Aphrodite is often depicted as vain, fickle, and uncaring. Saint makes her into a woman filled with love for everything who wants and looks for the best in everyone.
You see the often mean and dark tale of Hephaestus handled with care and gentleness. You understand both sides of love and war with Ares as an opposite attraction.
‘Love opens us up to the possibility of pain,’ she says. ‘You can’t protect us against it. You can’t strive for perfection all the time. You govern something ungovernable – a realm that’s wild and dangerous, one where there are great rewards at stake but risks as well. And it’s no different for Ares.’
The story jumps all over the place and time, moving to well-known parts of mythology where Saint pictures Aphrodite having a greater role, even if behind the scenes. Even in the pantheon, Saint acknowledges the gender power dynamics.
As a result, the plot and pacing don’t flow as seamlessly as I’d want, but that is to be expected with a Goddess at its centre.
With a first-person pov, this feels personal and almost a diary-like view into an often ridiculed figure.
Every opportunity for love to blossom, whether ephemeral or lasting, illicit or open, is a celebration to me. I welcome them all, in whatever shape they take.
Physical arc gifted by Penguin Viking Books.
Bookstagram
Tiktok
Aphrodite is often depicted as vain, fickle, and uncaring. Saint makes her into a woman filled with love for everything who wants and looks for the best in everyone.
You see the often mean and dark tale of Hephaestus handled with care and gentleness. You understand both sides of love and war with Ares as an opposite attraction.
‘Love opens us up to the possibility of pain,’ she says. ‘You can’t protect us against it. You can’t strive for perfection all the time. You govern something ungovernable – a realm that’s wild and dangerous, one where there are great rewards at stake but risks as well. And it’s no different for Ares.’
The story jumps all over the place and time, moving to well-known parts of mythology where Saint pictures Aphrodite having a greater role, even if behind the scenes. Even in the pantheon, Saint acknowledges the gender power dynamics.
As a result, the plot and pacing don’t flow as seamlessly as I’d want, but that is to be expected with a Goddess at its centre.
With a first-person pov, this feels personal and almost a diary-like view into an often ridiculed figure.
Every opportunity for love to blossom, whether ephemeral or lasting, illicit or open, is a celebration to me. I welcome them all, in whatever shape they take.
Physical arc gifted by Penguin Viking Books.
Bookstagram
Tiktok
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
“He’s been in my head and in my heart for decades, and if a hundred more centuries pass, he’ll still be there.”
This book is first and foremost a love story. The perfect type of novel to tell the story of Aphrodite.
A fascinating reframing of one of the most famous relationships in mythology. Instead of being a tawdry affair between Aphrodite and Ares, who don’t care about the consequences of their actions, it’s two gods who fell in love but were manipulated and controlled by a power-hungry king and eventually found their way back together.
Ares was a wonderful love interest. He was unapologetic about who he was, but he really grew and changed as he fell in love, but in a way that remained true to his identity as the God of War. So many of these mythology retellings don’t have a happy ending for romance. The men tend to betray and hurt the women, and the women have to spend a lot of time putting themselves back together. Those stories are important, and serve as a great reminder of what ancient life was like for women, but I really liked that this book had “and they lived happily ever after.” Call me cliché, I don’t care!
Though I think Aphrodite could have had a little more development, I really liked her character. Unlike Saint previous goddess book “Hera”, Aphrodite was a protagonist whom I was always rooting for. Saint managed to make a misunderstood goddess, one often known for being wanton and sex-crazed, into what I think was her true role in Ancient Greek: Goddess of Love.
Thank you to Random House Publishing Group and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This book is first and foremost a love story. The perfect type of novel to tell the story of Aphrodite.
A fascinating reframing of one of the most famous relationships in mythology. Instead of being a tawdry affair between Aphrodite and Ares, who don’t care about the consequences of their actions, it’s two gods who fell in love but were manipulated and controlled by a power-hungry king and eventually found their way back together.
Ares was a wonderful love interest. He was unapologetic about who he was, but he really grew and changed as he fell in love, but in a way that remained true to his identity as the God of War. So many of these mythology retellings don’t have a happy ending for romance. The men tend to betray and hurt the women, and the women have to spend a lot of time putting themselves back together. Those stories are important, and serve as a great reminder of what ancient life was like for women, but I really liked that this book had “and they lived happily ever after.” Call me cliché, I don’t care!
Though I think Aphrodite could have had a little more development, I really liked her character. Unlike Saint previous goddess book “Hera”, Aphrodite was a protagonist whom I was always rooting for. Saint managed to make a misunderstood goddess, one often known for being wanton and sex-crazed, into what I think was her true role in Ancient Greek: Goddess of Love.
Thank you to Random House Publishing Group and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Wowe, where do I even begin?
I’ll be honest, I went into this knowing very little about Aphrodite beyond the basics. She is the goddess of love, married to Hephaestus, entangled in an affair with Ares. That was the simple story I carried with me. What Jennifer Saint delivers here is something far richer, deeper, and far more human.
I absolutely loved it.
What surprised me most was Ares. He is so often reduced to a brutal god of war, all violence and fury, yet here he becomes the character who loves the fiercest and the most faithfully. His devotion to Aphrodite, his refusal to try to change her, and especially his love for his daughter and his determination to protect her at all costs, felt powerful and unexpectedly tender. In many ways, it is Ares who teaches Aphrodite what enduring love truly looks like. Not the fleeting, intoxicating kind she embodies as a goddess, but the kind that stays. The kind that sacrifices.
Watching Aphrodite grow was equally compelling. I loved seeing her stand firm in what she believed in, even when it cost her. Her complicated feelings for Hephaestus, her anger, her loyalty, and her eventual understanding that love comes in many forms and many shades, all felt beautifully explored. This story reminds us that you do not have to be the same as someone to love them, and that love can evolve without losing its power.
Jennifer Saint continues to give a place for mythological women to reclaim their narratives, and This Immortal Heart is a amazing addition to that.
I would absolutely recommend this to a friend. A beautiful, emotional retelling that has left me savoring it even once I closed the pages.
I’ll be honest, I went into this knowing very little about Aphrodite beyond the basics. She is the goddess of love, married to Hephaestus, entangled in an affair with Ares. That was the simple story I carried with me. What Jennifer Saint delivers here is something far richer, deeper, and far more human.
I absolutely loved it.
What surprised me most was Ares. He is so often reduced to a brutal god of war, all violence and fury, yet here he becomes the character who loves the fiercest and the most faithfully. His devotion to Aphrodite, his refusal to try to change her, and especially his love for his daughter and his determination to protect her at all costs, felt powerful and unexpectedly tender. In many ways, it is Ares who teaches Aphrodite what enduring love truly looks like. Not the fleeting, intoxicating kind she embodies as a goddess, but the kind that stays. The kind that sacrifices.
Watching Aphrodite grow was equally compelling. I loved seeing her stand firm in what she believed in, even when it cost her. Her complicated feelings for Hephaestus, her anger, her loyalty, and her eventual understanding that love comes in many forms and many shades, all felt beautifully explored. This story reminds us that you do not have to be the same as someone to love them, and that love can evolve without losing its power.
Jennifer Saint continues to give a place for mythological women to reclaim their narratives, and This Immortal Heart is a amazing addition to that.
I would absolutely recommend this to a friend. A beautiful, emotional retelling that has left me savoring it even once I closed the pages.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Once again Jennifer Saint enriches a story that we all know and love and makes something new and magical eminate from the pages (or in this instance, a screen).
I have been lucky enough to read the ARC copy of this book and it did not disappoint. We follow Aphrodite and her turmoilous love with the God of War. One cannot be without the other: Love and War, always at odds with eachother, but also living side-by-side harmoniously.
The story deviates between their love affair and stories that they become involved in, notably Aphrodite's marriage to Ares's brother, Hephaestus and how it effects them both. The self-proclaimed exile of Ares and the lives they create for themselves from the pieces of broken hearts. To when they realise it was all too much and they actually belong together.
There was passion (without the need for spicy scenes), there was humbleness, quiet laughter, so much content that it was impossible to put down and of course, love and war(s). Jennifer Saint clearly puts a lot of time and effort into her work and it shows on every page. She fills the pages with atmosphere, colour and imagination. She has a way with words that transports you to the point she is making. I have enjoyed this book as much as I hoped I would.
5⭐️
0 🌶
Fave quotes:
"Love is always the antidote to loss, the balm to any wound"
"If you didn't care so much, you wouldn't be the Goddess of Love". He takes a breath. "You wouldn't be the Goddess / love..."
"... he's appealing to my heart, it has already shrivelled to ashes in the furnace of my wrath".
"Hurt and grief are not the price of love; they are the testaments to its strength".
I have been lucky enough to read the ARC copy of this book and it did not disappoint. We follow Aphrodite and her turmoilous love with the God of War. One cannot be without the other: Love and War, always at odds with eachother, but also living side-by-side harmoniously.
The story deviates between their love affair and stories that they become involved in, notably Aphrodite's marriage to Ares's brother, Hephaestus and how it effects them both. The self-proclaimed exile of Ares and the lives they create for themselves from the pieces of broken hearts. To when they realise it was all too much and they actually belong together.
There was passion (without the need for spicy scenes), there was humbleness, quiet laughter, so much content that it was impossible to put down and of course, love and war(s). Jennifer Saint clearly puts a lot of time and effort into her work and it shows on every page. She fills the pages with atmosphere, colour and imagination. She has a way with words that transports you to the point she is making. I have enjoyed this book as much as I hoped I would.
5⭐️
0 🌶
Fave quotes:
"Love is always the antidote to loss, the balm to any wound"
"If you didn't care so much, you wouldn't be the Goddess of Love". He takes a breath. "You wouldn't be the Goddess / love..."
"... he's appealing to my heart, it has already shrivelled to ashes in the furnace of my wrath".
"Hurt and grief are not the price of love; they are the testaments to its strength".
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book felt like coming home to the stories I loved growing up.
I’ve always adored mythology - Greek, Roman, Egyptian, all of it - and This Immortal Heart completely hooked me from the first page. Jennifer Saint has such a gift for taking ancient stories and making them feel emotional, modern, and deeply human without losing their mythic weight.
Her portrayal of Aphrodite was everything I wanted: powerful, complicated, flawed, and vulnerable in ways that felt painfully real. She isn’t just the Goddess of Love here - she’s a being ruled by passion, mistakes, longing, and an aching desire to understand mortals she can never truly become.
And Ares… I loved him. His quiet devotion, his inner conflict, his softness beneath all the destruction - their relationship felt tragic, tender, and inevitable in the best way.
What stood out most was how richly layered the story felt. Saint weaves in so many myths and characters - Hephaestus, Adonis, Pandora, the Amazons - without ever overwhelming the narrative. It felt like a tapestry of interconnected stories rather than a single retelling.
The writing was beautiful and immersive, especially in the way it described both Olympus and the mortal world. Every setting felt alive, every emotion felt intentional.
This was romantic without being overly romance-driven, emotional without being melodramatic, and nostalgic in the most comforting way. If you’ve ever loved mythology, especially as a child, this book will feel like a gift.
I’ve always adored mythology - Greek, Roman, Egyptian, all of it - and This Immortal Heart completely hooked me from the first page. Jennifer Saint has such a gift for taking ancient stories and making them feel emotional, modern, and deeply human without losing their mythic weight.
Her portrayal of Aphrodite was everything I wanted: powerful, complicated, flawed, and vulnerable in ways that felt painfully real. She isn’t just the Goddess of Love here - she’s a being ruled by passion, mistakes, longing, and an aching desire to understand mortals she can never truly become.
And Ares… I loved him. His quiet devotion, his inner conflict, his softness beneath all the destruction - their relationship felt tragic, tender, and inevitable in the best way.
What stood out most was how richly layered the story felt. Saint weaves in so many myths and characters - Hephaestus, Adonis, Pandora, the Amazons - without ever overwhelming the narrative. It felt like a tapestry of interconnected stories rather than a single retelling.
The writing was beautiful and immersive, especially in the way it described both Olympus and the mortal world. Every setting felt alive, every emotion felt intentional.
This was romantic without being overly romance-driven, emotional without being melodramatic, and nostalgic in the most comforting way. If you’ve ever loved mythology, especially as a child, this book will feel like a gift.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I simply loved this. I am a huge greek mythology nerd, and I think knowing a lot of these names and stories beforehand really elevated my enjoyment of this story. Even knowing the stories and how they end, it was a beautifully written journey.
True to Greek form, it is a tragedy full of scheming and conniving gods that slowly builds until Aphrodite is forced into an impossible decision: Ares or herself. You can’t help but feel every emotion along with her.
In many greek retellings, both Ares and Aphrodite aren’t seen in a great light. Ares is usually portrayed as a brute who is quick to fight and Aphrodite is often portrayed as shallow and self-absorbed. I loved how this book turned those preconceptions on their head. Both characters were portrayed with depth to their personalities while staying true to who they are.
Ares makes an interesting analysis between himself and Aphrodite that many don’t consider, even Aphrodite herself, in that war and love aren’t all that different. Both involve raw, blazing bits of passion where everything is stripped away and one is intensely themself. Whether someone is in love or in the throes of war, they are the most alive they have ever been.
While I love seeing greek gods written in new and different ways than the traditional, I simply love that we can collectively agree that Zeus is a dick every single time.
This author has been on my radar for years and I can’t believe this is the first book of hers I’ve finally read. It definitely won’t be the last.
Many thanks to Random House Publishing and Netgalley for the eARC!
True to Greek form, it is a tragedy full of scheming and conniving gods that slowly builds until Aphrodite is forced into an impossible decision: Ares or herself. You can’t help but feel every emotion along with her.
In many greek retellings, both Ares and Aphrodite aren’t seen in a great light. Ares is usually portrayed as a brute who is quick to fight and Aphrodite is often portrayed as shallow and self-absorbed. I loved how this book turned those preconceptions on their head. Both characters were portrayed with depth to their personalities while staying true to who they are.
Ares makes an interesting analysis between himself and Aphrodite that many don’t consider, even Aphrodite herself, in that war and love aren’t all that different. Both involve raw, blazing bits of passion where everything is stripped away and one is intensely themself. Whether someone is in love or in the throes of war, they are the most alive they have ever been.
While I love seeing greek gods written in new and different ways than the traditional, I simply love that we can collectively agree that Zeus is a dick every single time.
This author has been on my radar for years and I can’t believe this is the first book of hers I’ve finally read. It definitely won’t be the last.
Many thanks to Random House Publishing and Netgalley for the eARC!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Many thanks to the publisher for this manuscript draft, I started on it straight away having already been a fan of the author's previous mythology works. This Immortal Heart gives us the story of Aphrodite, using her long standing affair with the war god Ares as a central theme plus a scattering of other stories and Easter eggs throughout. I admit that I rarely tire of new Greek and Roman mythology interpretations because there is always a new perspective to explore. For obvious reasons Aphrodite's tale is more romance focused which might not be for everyone.
I do wish especially because the version of Aphrodite we see born here is of the Hesiodian variety and not a daughter of Zeus that more had been made of her origins because many references are made to her being older than the Olympians but this is glossed over a bit to get on with the normal plotting and scheming amongst the usual cast of gods and goddesses. In this way Aphrodite could have been a little more singularly unique, I feel. More also might have been made of some associations within her own mythology tied to war, which makes her all the more appropriate as a link to Ares. Overall though it's a nice book for this genre and a very easy relaxed read.
I do wish especially because the version of Aphrodite we see born here is of the Hesiodian variety and not a daughter of Zeus that more had been made of her origins because many references are made to her being older than the Olympians but this is glossed over a bit to get on with the normal plotting and scheming amongst the usual cast of gods and goddesses. In this way Aphrodite could have been a little more singularly unique, I feel. More also might have been made of some associations within her own mythology tied to war, which makes her all the more appropriate as a link to Ares. Overall though it's a nice book for this genre and a very easy relaxed read.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
*Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance reader copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.*
This Immortal Heart follows Aphrodite, who is the Goddess of Love as she wields her power over mortal hearts. She is ruled by passion and loves to interfere in mortal lives by guiding them to who they love. She has good intentions but her meddling doesn’t always work out. On the other hand, Ares, who is the God of War is her complete opposite as his power is destructive and dangerous. Their lives collide when Aphrodite’s meddling goes wrong and Aphrodite cannot resist him.
I enjoyed the first 20% of this but then just lost interest in this. I think this is perfect for fans of Jennifer Saint and hardcore lovers of Greek mythology. Personally, I have just lost interest in these kind of mythology retellings and I was just bored with this. I feel similar about this as I do with Saint’s previous book, Hera and I just think it’s very difficult to write books following Gods. Gods are supposed to be powerful but Aphrodite in this just feels like she could be any girl in this mystical time period. Plus I wasn’t a huge fan of the changes this author made to the myth although I do understand not every retelling can be the same.
This Immortal Heart follows Aphrodite, who is the Goddess of Love as she wields her power over mortal hearts. She is ruled by passion and loves to interfere in mortal lives by guiding them to who they love. She has good intentions but her meddling doesn’t always work out. On the other hand, Ares, who is the God of War is her complete opposite as his power is destructive and dangerous. Their lives collide when Aphrodite’s meddling goes wrong and Aphrodite cannot resist him.
I enjoyed the first 20% of this but then just lost interest in this. I think this is perfect for fans of Jennifer Saint and hardcore lovers of Greek mythology. Personally, I have just lost interest in these kind of mythology retellings and I was just bored with this. I feel similar about this as I do with Saint’s previous book, Hera and I just think it’s very difficult to write books following Gods. Gods are supposed to be powerful but Aphrodite in this just feels like she could be any girl in this mystical time period. Plus I wasn’t a huge fan of the changes this author made to the myth although I do understand not every retelling can be the same.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This Immortal Heart by Jennifer Saint can only be described as absolutely awe-inspiring! Yet another beautifully crafted mythological retelling from an author who truly understands the power of ancient stories told with passion and care on every page, pulling you effortlessly into a world shaped by fate, love, and loss.
Where do I begin! This book is both gripping and emotionally resonant, capturing themes with true, pure depth. Whilst it’s certainly a softer version of some of the alternative Aphrodite retellings I’ve read, and from some of Saint’s own previous works, (quiet starkly against her last novel Hera, though what can be said for that other than those two goddesses are quite literally the opposite end of the stick!), what stands out most is her reimagining of the story from a less-told perspective. Saint offers a fresh and thoughtful twist while remaining true to the mythological foundations, and what more could you want! It’s an impressive and engaging retelling that brings familiar legends vividly to life, while still honoring it so carefully.
It’s truly an incredible retelling that is emotional, immersive, and simply fantastic.
Where do I begin! This book is both gripping and emotionally resonant, capturing themes with true, pure depth. Whilst it’s certainly a softer version of some of the alternative Aphrodite retellings I’ve read, and from some of Saint’s own previous works, (quiet starkly against her last novel Hera, though what can be said for that other than those two goddesses are quite literally the opposite end of the stick!), what stands out most is her reimagining of the story from a less-told perspective. Saint offers a fresh and thoughtful twist while remaining true to the mythological foundations, and what more could you want! It’s an impressive and engaging retelling that brings familiar legends vividly to life, while still honoring it so carefully.
It’s truly an incredible retelling that is emotional, immersive, and simply fantastic.
January 28, 2026
“It’s goddesses who hear the prayers of the grieving, just as Demeter said. Never the gods.”
Wow!! What a beautiful story. I have read all of Jennifer Saint’s mythology books, and would put this one up there with Hera as my favorite of her work.
In this story we follow Aphrodite as she navigates falling in love with Ares. I felt the pacing of the story really picked up 1/3 of the way through and stayed steady through the novel. Aphrodite’s strength in staying true to herself really sold her character for me, and I loved how she never gave up on her morals and what mattered to her. Aphrodite embodies feminine energy, which oftentimes is seen as a weakness. She reminds us that in the end, how deeply we love each other is what matters.
One of my favorite quotes from the novel, which I think is super timely to current events: “‘It takes patience,’ she adds, ‘but, in the end, everything heals.”
Everything heals.
I think lovers of Madeline Miller and Claire North will really love This Immortal Heart! The prose is beautiful, great characterization, decent pacing, and made me fall in love with Ares. Thank you to Ballantine and NetGalley for the advanced reader copy!!
Wow!! What a beautiful story. I have read all of Jennifer Saint’s mythology books, and would put this one up there with Hera as my favorite of her work.
In this story we follow Aphrodite as she navigates falling in love with Ares. I felt the pacing of the story really picked up 1/3 of the way through and stayed steady through the novel. Aphrodite’s strength in staying true to herself really sold her character for me, and I loved how she never gave up on her morals and what mattered to her. Aphrodite embodies feminine energy, which oftentimes is seen as a weakness. She reminds us that in the end, how deeply we love each other is what matters.
One of my favorite quotes from the novel, which I think is super timely to current events: “‘It takes patience,’ she adds, ‘but, in the end, everything heals.”
Everything heals.
I think lovers of Madeline Miller and Claire North will really love This Immortal Heart! The prose is beautiful, great characterization, decent pacing, and made me fall in love with Ares. Thank you to Ballantine and NetGalley for the advanced reader copy!!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I really wanted to love this one. I enjoy Greek myth retellings and the overall concept here is strong, especially the focus on Aphrodite and the politics between the gods. On paper it’s absolutely my kind of story. But I found it surprisingly hard to get into and it took me quite a while to feel settled in the world.
Even with a decent understanding of Greek mythology, there are a lot of names and relationships introduced quickly, and at times I felt like I was playing catch up rather than fully immersed. I kept waiting for that emotional hook that would pull me in properly.
I also went in hoping for a true enemies to lovers dynamic, something slow and charged and tense. Instead, certain developments felt a little rushed and the payoff didn’t quite land for me. I just wanted more depth, more build up, more ache.
That said, I can absolutely see this working for readers who adore mythological retellings and intra Olympian drama. If this is your genre, I imagine this will be a highly anticipated and satisfying read. I’m still figuring out whether this genre is fully for me, but I’m glad I gave it a try.
Even with a decent understanding of Greek mythology, there are a lot of names and relationships introduced quickly, and at times I felt like I was playing catch up rather than fully immersed. I kept waiting for that emotional hook that would pull me in properly.
I also went in hoping for a true enemies to lovers dynamic, something slow and charged and tense. Instead, certain developments felt a little rushed and the payoff didn’t quite land for me. I just wanted more depth, more build up, more ache.
That said, I can absolutely see this working for readers who adore mythological retellings and intra Olympian drama. If this is your genre, I imagine this will be a highly anticipated and satisfying read. I’m still figuring out whether this genre is fully for me, but I’m glad I gave it a try.
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