The Song of Achilles
   by: Madeline Miller

Publication Date: Sept. 20, 2011
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing
Genre: Mythology, Historical Fiction
Age Group: Adult
Source: Borrowed from library
Page Count: 352 pages
Order Links:  Amazon | B&N
My Rating: 5/5 stars

Greece in the age of heroes. Patroclus, an awkward young prince, has been exiled to the court of King Peleus and his perfect son Achilles. Despite their difference, Achilles befriends the shamed prince, and as they grow into young men skilled in the arts of war and medicine, their bond blossoms into something deeper - despite the displeasure of Achilles' mother Thetis, a cruel sea goddess.

But when word comes that Helen of Sparta has been kidnapped, Achilles must go to war in distant Troy and fulfill his destiny. Torn between love and fear for his friend, Patroclus goes with him, little knowing that the years that follow will test everything they hold dear.

I wasn't originally going to review this one, because I honestly don't even know how I could attempt to do justice to such a beautiful book. But I really wanted people to know how much I enjoyed this one and to put it on their radar if it hadn't been already. So. We'll give this a go.

Most of you know the story of Achilles, whether you've read The Iliad or seen the movie Troy, or having studied him in school. Having been born to a goddess and a King, he is obviously more. He is an extremely fast, skilled fighter and his destiny lies in greatness. I can't imagine the burden he must feel to know he is different than the others in his life. That is why it was such a surprise to see him befriend Patroclus, who has been exiled to his father's court. There is seemingly nothing special about Patroclus at all. He doesn't fit in with the others and keeps to himself. However, he and Achilles end up forming a friendship that transcends all others. It was such a beautiful thing to witness, as both end up being exactly what the other needs.

Their friendship turns into something more and while it was common for young boys at this time, most ended up marrying and growing out of their desire for one another. It wasn't the case for Achilles and Patroclus. Neither was interested in seeking attention from women and despite being pushed to do so, their hearts clearly belonged to one another. Patroclus might have always stood in Achilles' shadow, but to Achilles he was the light in a world of prophecies and expectations. I loved that so much.

So much changes for these two as they embark to fight in the Trojan War. It's impossible to go back to being the two young boys who were able to enjoy life to the fullest while they trained with Chiron or spent time in the palace. They have become men and as we all know Achilles' fatal flaw is his hubris, which is always frustrating to witness no matter how many times I read about him. I think it's because I know the outcome and had he not been so stubborn, so much could have been avoided. My heart hurt as it always does when I read the end, but Miller put her own twist on what happens after, that literally had my heart crying out. While I despised Thetis, Achilles' mother, for most of the book, I can't help but respect her by the end for what she did.

Besides Achilles and Patroclus, I loved Briseis. Seeing what Achilles did for those women really warmed my heart and, as you feel the story turning darker and to the inevitable, Miller inserts these beautiful scenes of love and camaraderie among the Greeks and I just loved reading about them.

There is a reason these are Greek tragedies my friends. You don't get a happy ending. But I promise you, The Song of Achilles, will leave you satisfied and hopeful amidst your grief. If you love Greek mythology and are looking for a beautiful, quiet romance- get this one.

My Life From Hell (The Blooming Goddess Trilogy #3)
   by: Tellulah Darling

Publication Date: March 20, 2014
Publisher: Te Da Media
Genre: Mythology
Age Group: Young Adult
Source: e-ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Page Count: 414 pages
Order Links: Amazon | B&N
My Rating: 4/5 stars

To say that Sophie Bloom is at the top of her game with one only week until spring equinox and the final showdown with Zeus and Hades would be, well, lying. The Goddess of Spring feels more like the Goddess of Bzz Thanks For Playing than the savior of humanity. And could her relationships be any more messed up?

Good times.

Sophie is convinced that things can’t get any worse than crawling back to her mother Demeter and begging for help. But she’s about to find out how very wrong she is.

It’s a race against time for Sophie to implement the big battle strategy in the YA romantic comedy/Greek mythology finale My Life From Hell. Love meets comedy with a whole lot of sass in book three of this teen fantasy romance series. Save herself; save the world. Humanity may be screwed.

 

 

I just LOVE this series! I can't even stress how much you guys need to read it! If you're a fan of mythology and snarky, sassy teenagers these are the books for you! Darling has done such an awesome job of transforming the Persephone myth and giving it some flair! Sophie Bloom is by far one of my favorite heroines- she is snarky, fun, and completely kickass! Her crew is made of awesome and I loved how much voice Darling gave to her secondary characters. Theo, Fee, Hannah, Pierce, and Kai all make up a rather motley crew, but they are essential to the development of this series. Their added humor and loyalty is what makes them so memorable and I wish I had a group of friends like them!

 

And then there's Kai. Prince of the Underworld. Bane of Sophie's existence. Love of her life. KAI. I can't even. I love their relationship so much. Kai is without a doubt, 100% bad boy, cause you know- PRINCE of the UNDERWORLD. But OMG- the boy is not without a heart. And I love how he and Sophie can't get enough of one another one minute and then ready to throw down the next. They have this magnetic attraction- they can't stay away from each other, no matter what the other has done, and while it sounds frustrating- their back and forth banter is what really makes their relationship awesome. Did I mention all the kissing? Oh yeah! There's plenty of it in this final book for all you romantics!

 

Time is running out for Sophie and the gang. They are days away from the spring equinox and in turn, the end of the world as we know it. Hades and Zeus have teamed up to rid the world of humanity and Sophie is caught in the crosshairs. It is up to her to stop them, make things right with Kai, and figure out where the ritual is to be held.... no pressure, right?

 

We see some old enemies, as well as meet some new... friends? in this one. We also get to take a trip down to the Underworld, which is always exciting. One of my favorites was Oizys. She is totally awesome and I love seeing her and Sophie interact with one another. They have that back and forth banter her and Kai do and I just love seeing all the snark and sass!

 

I obviously don't want to spoil anything, but I feel Darling did the final book in her series justice. I love how everything came together and she did a great job of making sure she resolved all plot points and storylines. There were a few moments I felt my heart constrict and I was cursing the gods above for how manipulative and malicious Felicia (Sophie's stepmother) is. Ugh. That woman.

 

I love the message behind the prophecy. I can't say much- but Sophie really sees herself in a different light by the end and it is really empowering.

 

Have I convinced you yet to give this awesome series a try? Let's put it this way: You get a snarky heroine, a sexy, swoon-worthy love interest, lots of kissing, a great group of friends that will make you laugh out loud, a new twist on mythology, AND did I mention LOTS OF KISSING?

 

 

 

 

My Ex From Hell (Book #1): Amazon | B&N | Goodreads

My Date From Hell (Book #2): Amazon | B&N | Goodreads

A Date of Godlike Proportions (Book #2.5) Amazon | Goodreads

 

 

 

 

 



Son of Set (Descendants of Isis #2)

by Kelsey Ketch

Release Date: 05/02/14

Summary from Goodreads:

“. . . the Sons would never just let him go—alive.”

Seth O’Keefe has broken the laws of his god. He never thought he would sacrifice his own future to protect a Daughter of Isis. But when the Sons of Set discovered Natti is the Secret Keeper, he had no choice. Now, Seth and Natti are on the run from his father, who wants nothing more than to see Seth dead. With no allies, Seth turns to the Daughters of Isis for help, hoping they would protect Natti. But when they meet the Daughters, he discovers a secret that puts both their lives in more danger. Low on options, Seth sees only one possibility for survival. He must help Natti solve an ancient puzzle and find the secret name of Ra.

Natara “Natti” Stone is having a hard time swallowing the truth. She can’t believe what she has learned in the past twenty-four hours: Seth is a Son of Set blessed with charm; she is a Daughter of Isis blessed with a sliver of Ma ‘at; the locket her grandmother gave her holds an ancient Egyptian secret linking to Osiris and Isis. That along with being tortured and brutalized by the Sons of Set, she can hardly hold herself together. Thank God for Seth’s touch! That warm, tingling sensation that drowns it all out. Yet her heart struggles to stay focused. She must quickly embrace her destiny before the secret name of Ra falls into the wrong hands.

*Note: Content for Upper YA*

Book One:

(cover linked from Goodreads)

Available from:

Available from:

  

About the Author

During her high school years, Kelsey Ketch could always be found tucked away in a little corner of the hall or classroom, writing her fantasy worlds and creating illustrations and maps. Today is no different, except now she’s writing in the break room at her office building or at the tables of the Barnes and Noble Café in Cary, North Carolina. She is also an avid reader, a part-time book blogger at Ketch’s Book Nook, and lives with her two orange tabbies and awesome and humorous flat-mate.Daughter of Isis is her debut novel.
For more information, please visit her site at kelseyketch.com.

***Author Links***

   

GIVEAWAY

Two prize packs, each containing a silver ankh pendant with seven knot anklet, Son of Set e-reader bling, 3 bookmarks, 2 temporary tattoos, 2 character collectable cards, and 2 wristbands (INT).
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Cover Reveal Organized by:

This week we are highlighting Cadmus from The Bloodstone Saga!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In these four books, one girl is confronted with lies, treachery, magic and myth. She learns how strong she really is and what sacrifices she is truly prepared to make for those that she loves. Heartbreaking, poignant and emotional, these books will tug at your heart-strings and leave you breathless for more.

 Here is what critics say: 

The Supernatural Snark says: “Overall, Every Last Kiss is a thoroughly enjoyable start to the Bloodstone series, the world of Cleopatra’s Egypt dazzling our imaginations as the joy and tragedy of love and death plays the keys of our emotions with mightily deft fingers.”

The Caffeinated Diva says this about Fated: “Once again, the author weaves actual mythology and legend and real people with the fictional and it is absolutely seamless. While the first explored ancient Egypt and its mythology, this book delves into Greek mythology. Her ability to maintain the integrity of the true mythology while also layering her own with it is amazing and makes for a very absorbing read.”

My Vamp Fiction says this about The Bloodstone Saga: “I just have to say this author keeps blowing me away with these books. I’m totally and completely infatuated with them. I’d even go as far as to say that they may just be my favorite series of the year.”

And the Goodreads reviews are in!

Tanya Maries says: “The Bloodstone Saga is pure literary magic!!!! This is my new literary chocolate -- my new literary gold!!!”

Carrie says: “I feel like this whole series can be described with words like rich, exquisite, romantic...the history of the stories and the world that was created by Ms. Cole are all of those things and more! Her descriptions are like a delicious banquet for the mind.”

  

 

Buy Links:

The entire Bloodstone Saga is available as a boxed set for $9.99!

Amazon

Barnes and Noble

 

Hasani was gone when I woke and I squeezed my eyes shut against the light from the flickering wall sconces.  He must have lit them for me before he left and even in my grumpy morning mood, I had to smile at his consideration.  I pulled the covers over my head and rested my cheek against the comfort of my pillow for a few minutes longer before I finally sighed and emerged into the reality of daytime.

It couldn’t be much past daybreak, since the orange fingers of the sun were just starting to curl around the horizon.  Hasani must have risen early to run drills with his soldiers before the Alexandrian heat rolled in.  Antony was probably with him.

I got up quickly, tying a soft white scarf around my waist and putting on a jeweled golden brassiere.   As I pulled my hair away from my face and fastened gold earrings into my ears, I briefly pondered my older body.  As Charmian, I may be thirty-nine, but my body was as svelte as a teen’s.  Fascinating.  It probably had a lot to do with the fact that ancient Egyptians didn’t have French fries or ice cream.

Sitting down at my vanity table, I pulled out the multiple jars required for my daily skin care and cosmetics application, sighing as I did.  As Macy, I was a very low-key, low-maintenance person. Charmian’s intricate, Egyptian beauty regime was tiresome.  But I had to admit that it was effective.  I had a perfect complexion.

Dipping my fingers in a jar of scented oil, I glanced back into the mirror as I began to apply it.  And froze with my fingers at the base of my neck.

A woman, pale and beautiful, sat on the bed behind me as though she belonged there.  Her eyes were ice blue and her long hair was so blonde that it was snow white. I whirled around to face her.

“How did you get in here?” I demanded.  “How did you get past the guards?”

She smiled peacefully at me, but didn’t answer.

“Can you speak?” I asked.  “Who are you?”

She studied me again, unmoving and silent from her perch on my bed.  She wore silvery robes embroidered with rich blue which were spread around her and her long fingernails were silver.  They sparkled in the muted light from my window.  She reminded me of what a fairy would be like.  An odd sensation began to build in my chest and I hesitated.

“Who are you?” I whispered again.“

You know who I am,” she said gently, as she rose from the bed.  She was so graceful that it seemed as though she floated as she walked toward me.

“I don’t,” I argued, as she came to a stop behind me.

“You do,” she insisted softly, as she placed her hands on my shoulders.  And in that instant, the second that her hands touched me, I did.

I was standing face to face with Lachesis, the middle sister of the Fates.  Terrifying and powerful, the last time I had seen her, she had been an ancient, stooped hag.  My eyes flew in amazement to her lovely, young face.

She smiled.

“I can appear as I wish, Charmian,” she said lightly.  “You are beautiful.  So, of course I wanted to appear beautiful, as well.  I have no wish to scare you.”

“Then what is your wish?” I asked quietly, keeping my eyes locked on her face.S

he reached past me and picked up the jar of oil, dipping her long fingers into it. Picking up my arm, she gently began rubbing the scented oil into my skin as she spoke.

“You are one of twelve, Charmian.  Did you know that?” I shook my head, instantly intrigued.

“Yes.  Twelve very important people were chosen so long ago to assist us throughout the millennia.  You were chosen for your bravery and your heart.”

She turned my wrist over and fingered my scar.“I placed the mark of the phoenix upon your wrist myself.  The phoenix is sacred to the order, Charmian.  It symbolizes re-birth and life, the very thing that we stand for… the things that we protect. And we gave you that mark.  It is an honor.”

I nodded.  “Yes, of course it is.”

“Then why have you been doubting us?” she turned her large blue eyes to me, beseeching me.

“I haven’t!” I protested. “The priest Annen has tried to convince me of his theories… but being a member of the Order is all I know.  I have no wish to believe him.”

“But you’ve wondered.”

She stated it as a fact, watching my face as she absently held her open palm out to a butterfly that had flown in from my window.  The delicate yellow wings quivered as it crawled onto her hand and sat still.“

I know your heart, Charmian.”

I sighed.  “I couldn’t help but wonder how much truth was in what he said.  But I have no wish to believe him. I’ve put his claims out of my mind.”

“As you should,” she instructed with the first trace of a harsh tone.

She watched the butterfly for a moment more, her blue eyes glinting, before she snapped her hand shut, crushing the delicate insect between her fingers.  I gasped as she put it in her mouth, chewing calmly as she contemplated me.

“You are one of the best we have, Charmian.  Yet you’ve lost your bloodstone.”

My heart dropped into my toes.  I couldn’t deny it.“Yes,” I admitted in a whisper, my head bowed.

“Get it back,” she hissed, her face clouding over and for a split second, one brief moment, I saw a glimpse of the ancient hag that she was.  I sucked my breath in, waiting for a storm.

She calmed herself, resuming her tranquil tone, her face regaining its youth and beauty.

“Our bloodstones are powerful, as you know.  They are the keys to everything.  That sniveling eunuch will not be able to use it- because it was made for you.  But the bloodstones were made from one stone. One. When one is lost, we all suffer.”

I stared at her intrigued, as she pulled her own bloodstone out of her robes.  Hers was larger than mine and set in an intricate setting surrounded by rubies, but it had clearly been cut from the same mother stone… glistening blood-red, with black veins.

“Our power as a whole should not be diminished because of the carelessness of one, should it?” she purred, sliding her hands smoothly over my shoulders and stopping with her fingers wrapped lightly around my neck.

I gulped, then shook my head quickly.

“Then, fix it,” she instructed pleasantly, removing her hands.  “No matter what you need to do to repair your error, you have my support.  Do you understand?”

Did I? Was she saying that retrieving my bloodstone using any means necessary was more important than restoring history?

Before I could speak, she nodded.  “I see that we’ve come to an understanding.  You’re such a bright girl.”

Confusion flooded through me as I watched her adjust her clothing.  How could this be happening?   My entire being was dedicated to enforcing the plan of the Fates.  Never had we deviated before, under the threat that chaos would ensue.  How could we deviate now?  Unless the threat was just that… an idle threat.  I had forgotten that my thoughts were not safe around her, until she snapped me from my reverie with a growl.

“Do not question us again, Charmian!  There are times when the Plan is not as important as protecting the Order.  It is as simple as that.  And I will not explain myself to you!”

But she just had.  The Order had a weakness.  The Bloodstones.  And nothing on earth was as important as keeping them.  I quickly blanked my thoughts so that she couldn’t read them again and nodded.“

Yes, Lachesis.  I’m sorry.  Rest assured, I will fix this…” My voice trailed off hesitantly.

“But?” she prompted.

“But can I just ask one thing?  Can I just know one thing… because I know I will not remember it in my next life anyway.”

She studied me quietly, reading my thoughts and hearing my unspoken question.  Her face an unreadable, lovely mask.“

In each life your memories from your previous lives are wiped clean for your own benefit,” she finally explained.  “It benefits you in many ways.  If you were able to remember the sadness from your previous lives, it would drive you to insanity.  You would lose your effectiveness as a Keeper.”

I nodded.  Ahmose had been right.“

And you forget the gifts you are capable of through your bloodstone as a safeguard,” she added.  “The power that we are able to harness is exquisite and enormous.  Too much burden for any one person to be aware of, life after life.”

“But you…”

“My sisters and I have each other to keep us in check.  You have no one.  But your Aegis.”

Realization settled upon me like a cloud.  So, Ahmose wasn’t just there to assist me…  he was there to keep me firmly in place.

“So, now you know.” She stared at me.  “For now.  You’ll forget it again soon enough.”

That thought was not comforting.

“Charmian?”

I looked up at her.“Yes?”

“Be good.”

And she was gone.

I took a shaking breath and sank into my bed, allowing the softness to comfort me momentarily.  I wasn’t sure what to think.  She had just confirmed that at least some of the things that Annen had told me were true… but since she openly admitted them, didn’t that mean that the Order had nothing to hide?  I was at a loss.

My hand brushed against a rolled up papyrus on my bed.  Staring at it suspiciously, I picked it up.  How had she left it?  I hadn’t seen her with it at all.

As I unrolled it, the yellow butterfly that I had just seen Lachesis eat flew from the confines of the paper and out my window.  I watched it fly away in shock, alive and well, before I turned my attention to the paper in my hands.  Delicate, feminine writing flowed across the page in English.

There are things you were never meant to understand.

You will have to trust me.

Before I even had a chance to ponder its meaning, the cryptic message burst into flame and I dropped it to the stone floor, watching it burn on the stone.  Within a minute, it had disappeared completely… as though it had never existed.  

 

Courtney Cole is a novelist who would eat mythology for breakfast if she could. She has a degree in Business, but has since discovered that corporate America is not nearly as fun to live in as fictional worlds. She loves chocolate and roller coasters and hates waiting and rude people.

Courtney lives in quiet suburbia, close to Lake Michigan, with her real-life Prince Charming, her ornery kids (there is a small chance that they get their orneriness from their mother) and a small domestic zoo.

 

Website  Blog  Facebook Goodreads  Amazon  Twitter

 

 

 

 

Welcome to my stop on the The Deep End of the Sea blog tour hosted by InkslingerPR!

Today I am excited to share my review, a character interview with Medusa, and a giveaway with you all!

The Deep End of the Sea
   by: Heather Lyons

Publication Date: Feb. 13, 2014
Publisher: Cerulean Books
Genre: Mythology/ Fantasy
Age Group: New Adult
Source: e-ARC provided by InkSlingerPR in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Page Count: 288 pages
Order Links: Amazon | B&N
My Rating: 5/5 stars

What if all the legends you’ve learned were wrong?

Brutally attacked by one god and unfairly cursed by another she faithfully served, Medusa has spent the last two thousand years living out her punishment on an enchanted isle in the Aegean Sea. A far cry from the monster legends depict, she’s spent her time educating herself, gardening, and desperately trying to frighten away adventure seekers who occasionally end up, much to her dismay, as statues when they manage to catch her off guard. As time marches on without her, Medusa wishes for nothing more than to be given a second chance at a life stolen away at far too young an age.

But then comes a day when Hermes, one of the few friends she still has and the only deity she trusts, petitions the rest of the gods and goddesses to reverse the curse. Thus begins a journey toward healing and redemption, of reclaiming a life after tragedy, and of just how powerful friendship and love can be—because sometimes, you have to sink in the deep end of the sea before you can rise back up again.

 

 

This is such a complicated review to write. No matter what- my words will NOT be able to do this incredibly moving story of hope justice. Heather Lyons has created such a beautifully written story with poignant, striking characters that you won't be able to forget anytime soon. Fans of Greek mythology will see a whole new take on the story of Medusa- her isolation, her associations with the gods, and what her future holds.

 

Oh Medusa. There were so many times in this story that I just wanted to crawl inside my book and hug her. When we first meet her, she is so self-deprecating- she carries such guilt and shame over what she's done. She views herself as a monster despite the fact that she was cursed and does not want to kill. However, accidents have occurred and she blames herself for their deaths. Medusa has also been wronged in the worst way a woman can be. She had her innocence torn from her and instead of gaining comfort- she was cast out by a vengeful goddess and left to wallow in her own confusion and then later guilt.

 

"Because a kiss should be born from love, and want, and need. A kiss should be beautiful, something a girl can hold onto for the rest of her life, to pull out in her memory whenever she wants butterflies to come back."

 

She only has two friends to start- one is a blind man by the name of Mikkos and Hermes is the second. She loves her friendships- they give her such happiness in a life of solitude and loneliness. Mikkos is her oldest friend and always comes to visit her and bring her gifts- her most recent being a blind cat to keep her company.

 

And then there's Hermes. Hermes is the hero every girl dreams about having. He is good and kind, and a faithful friend to Medusa. He encourages her and builds her up when she is at her lowest and won't let her wallow in self-doubt. He is outraged that she has been wrongly accused and cursed. He plans to remedy that and get her sentence revoked.

 

Hermes and Medusa's friendship is so incredibly beautiful- they are patient and tender with one another and watching Medusa realize the depth of her feelings for her best friend was quite touching. Hermes has loved her for ages- even when she was a monster. He will fight for her and protect her at all costs. He won't give her up willingly- however he would do ANYTHING to keep her safe from those wanting to harm her and we really see that here. My heart was broken for the two of them, but I had hope that after everything Medusa has gone through that she would find her sunshine amidst the clouds.

 

Medusa has some surprising allies on Olympus aside from Hermes and they genuinely care for her and offer her sanctuary. They played a great role during her transition and I really love them! Aphrodite, Hermes' sister was also a supportive ally and I liked how she tried to make Medusa feel at ease. Jocko and Bernie were also great characters and not at all who they appear to be. They are very multi-layered and were an excellent addition to the story. I can't go without discussing those who would do anything to make Medusa's life hell. Poseidon and Athena both play a pivotal role in Medusa's past, as well as her present. Both have committed unspeakable acts against her and while reading I could only hope that they get what they deserved in the end.

 

I am obviously a huge fan of Heather and her work and I have to say- her writing style is so lyrically beautiful and her pacing just flows so very seamlessly. She really took a chance, turning this novel into what it was- a story of hope, love, and strength. She did a truly fantastic job of conveying to her audience what she wanted them to learn about Medusa and her story.

 

Watching Medusa transform from a woman who abhors herself and is very withdrawn from the world to a beautiful, strong woman who is determined to change her fortune is so empowering. She finds her strength in those who love her and in herself, which was something she never could before. I am so proud of her for overcoming what she has and for taking control of her own life.

 

"For a long time, I hated what I was, what I did, and what I allowed to happen to me. So here I am, fourteen days in, and I've decided that maybe I do need to find out WHO I AM and WHAT I WANT. And it's probably the scariest thing I've ever decided to do."

 

 

 

Hey Medusa! I'm so glad you were able to come and chat with me today! I absolutely adored your story!

 

(blushes) Thank you! It's nice to be here with you, Jessica. This is my first real interview, you know. I mean... outside of Olympus, that is.

 

Yay! I'm so excited! So, first things first. Just to give my readers an idea of what the book is about, can you describe your story in 10 words or less?

 

Hmmm. (is quiet for a long moment) An ex-monster's journey to find herself.

 

Can you also tell my readers a bit about yourself? Maybe some things we don't know already from the blurb?

 

Well... (fidgets in chair) For one, I'm not exactly who legends have always painted me to be. That person is... pretty fearsome, isn't she? And fascinating and exciting, but... she's not me. Outside of, you know, being cursed and hanging out with gods and goddesses, I'd like to think I'm a pretty normal girl. My hobbies are all pretty mundane- I like to cook and bake, garden, and learn new languages. I sort of collect them, actually. I'm currently learning the ancient language the Olympians use. It's been driving me crazy when I hear that Automatons talking in it, not knowing what they're saying.

 

(chuckles) I'm sure it can be very frustrating! When I launch into Spanish, my students get really irritated because they don't understand me.

 

We see such character growth from you in this book. How would you describe yourself from the time where you lived on the island? How would you describe yourself as a person now?

 

Honestly, I'd probably best describe myself as a shut-in for most of my life. As for now... (quiet laughter) I'm a recovering shut-in. And glad to be so.

 

For people who think they know all about the gods and mythology- what would you say to them about your story in particular?

 

Most stories are written by victors- or at least, the people with the loudest, strongest voices. I suppose myths are like that, too; they showed lessons people were to learn from, warning them against crossing the gods and goddesses. My story... Bernie tells me that it's a classic case of victim blaming, and that it's a crock of... (coughs politely) untruths.

 

After being cursed for so long-do you still struggle with guilt and abhor your looks?

 

Oh, to be sure. It's.... (presses a hand against her chest) hard knowing that there are people out there whose last breath was stolen by me. I will never forget those people. Never. No matter what Jocko or Hades tell me. (is quiet for a long moment) It's funny how superficial the world is about looks. I have been called both beautiful and monstrous in appearance. I think I much rather people judge me for what's in here (taps on chest again) than here (motions to face).

 

You only have two friends to begin with. How would you describe your relationship with Mikkos?

 

(tears up a little) Mikkos always had the largest and most beautiful of hearts. I am grateful that my life has been blessed with his presence. I love him. It's that simple.

 

Ok girl- spill it. How would you describe Hermes? And how would he describe you?

 

(blushes hard) He is my best friend. The very best person I know- or have ever known. As for how he describes me... (looks off to the other side of the room, where Hermes is sitting, watching) (blushes harder) He says he'd say the same exact thing about me.

 

(sighs) You two are adorable. Your love story is by far one of my all time favorites and one I will always reference in the future.

 

How surprised were you by your allies? Out of everyone- did you ever expect the two you got to play such a critical role in your story?

 

Being isolated for so long, and hearing story after story of how the gods and goddesses ruined lives such as mine, I feel I was... justifiably wary. Going to Olympus... I really had no idea what to expect. But Hermes assured me I could trust his allies, and of course, he'd never failed me yet, so... (laughs quietly) I am so grateful to have the people I have in my life.

 

Can you tell us about Bernie and Jocko? How much of an impact did they have on you? Both are not as they seem and that was really interesting!

 

I love them so very, very much. While I no longer see Jocko on a daily basis (as he's incredibly busy with his work), he still checks in on me frequently; I am glad for this, because, despite what most would think, he has a beautiful soul. Bernie, though... Every girl needs a Bernie in her life, I think. Both of these dear people have taught me that, sometimes, family is more than just blood. Family is love. Family is who we hold close to our hearts.

 

Finally, what advice would you offer to other young women who have been victims such as you were?

 

You are not alone. You are not at fault. You are loved; do not give up. Do not isolate yourself; do not stay silent. Do not lose faith in humanity. Reach out for help.

 

To wrap us up, I have few fun questions for you!

 

If you could live anywhere, where would you live?

 

Paris. (looks over at Hermes; grins widely)

 

If you could only have one possession with you at all times, what would it be?

 

I would, of course, wish to have my loved ones with me. But if we're talking about physical possessions (which people most definitely aren't).... a statue Bernie gave me once- to remind me that, no matter how much we may wish to, we cannot erase the past. We can only take what we've learned and move forward.

 

What is the greatest gift you've received on your journey to where you are now?

 

Love. Love is always the best gift anyone can give or receive. Love from a friend, lover, family... it's all beautiful and so very, very precious.

 

Thanks so much Medusa for being here with me today! I am in awe of your strength and you are such an inspiration to others. 

 

 

 

Heather Lyons has always had a thing for words—She’s been writing stories since she was a kid. In addition to writing, she’s also been an archaeologist and a teacher. Heather is a rabid music fan, as evidenced by her (mostly) music-centric blog, and she’s married to an even larger music snob. They’re happily raising three kids who are mini music fiends who love to read and be read to.

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We are thrilled to share an excerpt for Heather Lyons' THE DEEP END OF THE SEA! THE DEEP END OF THE SEA is a New Adult Fantasy set for release February 13, 2014 and definitely one you need to add to your TBR pile!  

 

The Deep End of the Sea

by: Heather Lyons

New Adult Fantasy

 

 

What if all the legends you’ve learned were wrong? Brutally attacked by one god and unfairly cursed by another she faithfully served, Medusa has spent the last two thousand years living out her punishment on an enchanted isle in the Aegean Sea. A far cry from the monster legends depict, she’s spent her time educating herself, gardening, and desperately trying to frighten away adventure seekers who occasionally end up, much to her dismay, as statues when they manage to catch her off guard. As time marches on without her, Medusa wishes for nothing more than to be given a second chance at a life stolen away at far too young an age. But then comes a day when Hermes, one of the few friends she still has and the only deity she trusts, petitions the rest of the gods and goddesses to reverse the curse. Thus begins a journey toward healing and redemption, of reclaiming a life after tragedy, and of just how powerful friendship and love can be—because sometimes, you have to sink in the deep end of the sea before you can rise back up again.

 

 

 

I let it happen again.

The temple settles into that stagnant silence I’ve long learned to loathe, and these are the most cohesive series of words I can string together for many long, desolate minutes.

I let it happen again.

Resolutions apparently mean nothing, even if crafted under the best of intentions. Had I not, just this very morning, recited a daily pledge held dear to my heart: I shall not let myself be used for death? And yet, a man is dead, and I was the weapon that slayed him. I move closer to where he now stands, forever frozen in terror, and press my shaking hand against his outstretched stone one.

“I’m sorry,” I whisper, though he cannot and never will be able to hear my words. “So, so sorry.” His eyes, wide and mercifully detail free, offer me nothing in return. Once I commit his features to memory, I construct a life history with a name worthy of his sacrifice. Walt was single (I can’t bear the thought of spouses and children, thus my collection of singletons) and a bit of a daredevil when he wasn’t volunteering to teach literacy to adults in poverty stricken urban areas. He’d gone spelunking at least a half-dozen times, sky diving twice, and bungee cord diving off some crazy bridge in Colorado just once, on his thirtieth birthday. Walt liked to write poetry; how could he not, when his now-deceased parents had named him after one of the greats? Walt liked to talk about poetry, too, which means he needs to be with others like him.

I strip off my flannel work shirt, down to a tank top, and get to work. Shoving stones around when half of one’s body is reptilian isn’t the easiest of tasks, requiring a great deal of precision and care. As I always tend to do when placing a new statue, I can’t help but flash back to the one and only time I’d broken one of my victims. I’d been tired—he’d snuck upon me when I’d been sleeping—and an overestimated shove sent poor Nikolaos face first against the temple floor. I’d spent most of that night collecting the pieces which once made a whole man, blubbering in misery. As penance, his head, missing an ear and part of his nose, still sits on a shelf in my bedroom. Treat us gently, I like to imagine him telling me nightly before I sleep. We deserve your care. I have not failed Nikolaos since.

Over the ages, I’ve developed a routine to transfer the statues around the island that includes wrapping the bodies in a thick quilt before putting them up on casters. It takes a painstaking amount of time to shift them short or long distances, but each person deserves nothing less from me. Walt’s group sits just outside the temple. They are the philosophers of our island; it only seems natural they would find much to appreciate in both the sun and the stars. I struggle with his body over the stairs—they are tricky to maneuver for me even without hauling a two hundred pound statue—but eventually, I get him exactly where he’ll fit in best.

“Ladies and gentlemen, this is Walt,” I tell the still faces forming a cluster near a non-functioning fountain. “His poetry is as beautiful as his namesake’s.” I angle Walt so his eyes face theirs. It’s late afternoon, and there is soft orange light filtering down upon their features. It’s a beautiful sight, which only saddens me, because all of that talk about death and beauty being intertwined is one of the biggest loads of crap I’ve ever heard. Death isn’t beautiful. Too often than not, it’s messy and brutal; even when done in sleep, there’s still that theft of breath, that failure of a heart. Death is an act of violence. I should know. I am one of the most prolific murderers in history. And I think about death constantly. I often wonder what my own death will be like, if I am ever blessed to embrace it. I’m not too picky in my imaginings; I’ll take any sort by this point.

Logically, I’d prefer a less painful exit, but, knowing my luck, it’ll be as ruthless as once reported and still widely believed. It ought to be noted I have some of the most wretched luck to ever be doled out, so there is that. The sound of waves crashing against the shore sends my eyes to the horizon. I’ve tried to drown myself in those waters more times than I ought to admit over the years, but the sea always spits me back out. I’ve also tried overdosing on pharmaceuticals, stabbing myself in the chest and eyes (which was just as painful as you’d imagine), and throwing myself off a cliff. Melodramatic, yes, and all ineffective for an immortal cursed with impenetrable skin and a digestive system apparently filled with acid. Death is not my friend. At least, not yet.

 

 

Heather Lyons has always had a thing for words—She’s been writing stories since she was a kid. In addition to writing, she’s also been an archaeologist and a teacher. Heather is a rabid music fan as evidenced by her (mostly) music-centric blog, and she’s married to an even larger music snob. They’re happily raising three kids who are mini music fiends who love to read and be read to.

 

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