1.5 stars for the book
4.5 stars for the narration

I had high hopes for Blood of Hercules by Jasmine Mas, especially given the intriguing premise of gods, monsters, and a future setting. Unfortunately, the execution left a lot to be desired, and I found myself struggling to finish it.

There was a heavy reliance on info-dumping at the beginning, where we were told everything about the world rather than shown through the characters' actions and interactions. It felt more like a lecture on the mythology and setting than an engaging introduction to the universe. The lack of genuine world-building made it hard to take the plot seriously.

The pacing was another major flaw. The story relied heavily on time jumps, often skipping over weeks or months without any real transitions, causing the narrative to feel disjointed. This constant jump between time periods robbed the story of any sense of flow, and it was hard to stay engaged when everything felt so scattered and rushed.

As for the characters, I never felt invested in any of them. The book promised romance, but there was no chemistry between any of leads. I wasn’t rooting for any of the love interests because I didn’t feel any genuine connection.
The protagonist, Alexis, was really difficult to connect with. She came off as childish and immature, especially in her cringey inner monologue. Her commentary on sexual things was awkward and uncomfortable, and had me continuously grimacing.

Despite being set in the 2090s, Alexis and Nyx frequently used modern-day slang that felt completely out of place. The dialogue was riddled with 2025-era phrases like, "fluck the flucking world, life's a biatch like that. Yes, I was in my emo era."
Her snake, Nyx, who was invisible to everyone except Alexis, would spout lines like, “I knew you had it in you, bestie. Pussy power, crush the patriarchy! Don’t stop now—murder them all. KILL EVERYONE IN THIS ROOM!”
Nyx spoke like an horny, murderous human instead of a pet (although she would call the invisible snake her best friend) It was weirdly out-of-place commentary and it added another layer of discomfort. The snake’s lines felt strange and unnecessary—like they were trying too hard to be edgy and humorous, but just ended up being awkward.
This kind of language was so cringey and really immersion-breaking, especially for a world that's supposed to be set nearly 70 years in the future. Instead of adding depth to the world-building, the language made the story feel like it could have been set in any contemporary YA novel, undermining the supposed futuristic setting.

In terms of narration, the male narrators did an amazing job. Their performances were engaging and brought some life to the material—I’d give them a solid 5 stars. Unfortunately, the same can’t be said for the female narrator. When she tried to voice the male characters, it was executed, in my opinion, badly. She couldn’t quite pull off the right tone and infliction which pulled me out of the story every time.
Her portrayal of Alexis's pet snake, Nyx, was especially hard to take seriously. The narrator has given this snake, a voice that sounds exactly like Jennifer Coolidge. It was so bizarre and completely out of step with the tone of the book.

Ultimately, I never felt emotionally invested in the story. The world-building was weak, the pacing was erratic, and the characters lacked depth. Even the audiobook, which should have been an easier way to engage with the story, didn’t help. While the male narrators were great, the disjointed dialogue and the bizarre character choices kept me from enjoying the experience. Blood of Hercules showed potential, but the journey there was a struggle, and I found myself relieved when I finally finished it.

Thank you NetGalley for this Audio ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Thank you to Harlequin Audio, HTP Hive and the author for the gifted audiobook.

I found myself struggling with the pacing and language throughout this book. The internal dialogue of Alexis felt underdeveloped and immature, which diminished my engagement with the storyline. Unfortunately, the plot became convoluted, leading to my disinterest as the narrative progressed. The world-building left much to be desired, resulting in ongoing confusion. Additionally, the male main characters lacked any redeeming traits and often came off as unsettling.

It may have been the author’s style, however, the narration simply didn't resonate with me. I found it cringeworthy, and the tone was quite off-putting.

While this book has garnered a variety of reviews and might resonate with some readers, it ultimately did not meet my expectations.

this book had me chewing at the bit wanting to know how our mc was going survive the book. the twists in this book had my jaw dropping as well as a few laughs over all i think if you like myth retellings and a bit of romancsty ( how ever it spelled) then pick this book up a give it a read i'm thinking i'm going to have to get a physical book for my selfs went i can

I'm super picky about fantasy reads and I LOVED this book. This book was so funny and witty but also tragic and heartbreaking at the same time. I hate that I have to wait for the next one!

Starting my new year with this epic story was the perfect way to kick things off. While I went into the story not knowing much beyond the intriguing blurb and stunning cover, I was immediately hooked. The amazing voice actors brought the story to life, keeping me captivated throughout. The opening grabbed me in a chokehold and didn’t let go until I finished. The characters were so well thought out, reimagining the legends in unique and unexpected ways, making them feel fresh yet distinct from their origins.

The story begins with an in-depth history of the world, setting the stage for a gripping tale. Set in a dystopian future, the Spartans, descendants of ancient Greek legends, reintroduced themselves to the world in 2050, when the appearance of Titans, monstrous creatures, appeared on earth and started slaughtering humans. Alexis's journey begins in 2090; the world is largely dominated by the obsession over Spartans. While the story starts in the US, the majority of the book unfolds in the Dolomites of Italy.

I loved the breakdown of the 12 Spartan houses and the introduction of the chthonic families. This addition enriched the world-building, making it even more intricate and detailed. The family tree was also a fantastic touch, offering a visual aid to help understand the various families and their complex relationships throughout the story.

Alexis (FMC) is introduced as a child in foster care, a choice that adds raw depth and vulnerability to her character. Starting with her childhood made her story feel incredibly personal, drawing me in and making me care deeply about everything she experienced. However, this depiction is very dark and may be triggering for some readers (please check the TW list at the beginning of the book). Alexis is such an interesting character—her faults don’t hinder her, and despite being broken down numerous times, she manages to overcome it all. Her witty remarks throughout the book were delightful, often coming at the most unexpected times. Nyx, as Alexis's friend and companion throughout the story, was a perfect balance—like having an angel on one shoulder and a devil on the other. Her presence provided a great depth to Alexis's overall character, offering that much-needed love and unconditional support. Nyx was always there for Alexis, providing that fun, experienced older friend vibe.

The four main male leads—Patro, Achilles, Augustus, and Kharon—are distinct, complex characters, and while it’s clear who they might eventually become to Alexis, her emotional journey with them is fraught with tension and fear, rather than a blossoming connection. From the start, Alexis is wary of them—she doesn’t trust them, and in many ways, she outright fears them. The dynamics between her and the men evolve slowly, and while something is clearly building, it’s not a romantic bond in the typical reverse harem sense. The relationships develop more around Alexis’s growing awareness of who these men are—and who they might become—as their true natures begin to reveal themselves. Though Alexis doesn't initially like them and even harbors hatred for Augustus and Kharon by the end of the book, there’s an undeniable fact that they are becoming a more permanent part of her life, even if not by her choice.

Patro and Achilles come to a realization about themselves and what they truly desire by the end of this book, and I’m excited to see what lengths they will go to in order to achieve their goals, much like Augustus and Kharon did. While I’m not yet ready to fully love any of the male characters (except for Charlie and Hades, but no spoilers here—I’m sworn to secrecy like an oracle on a bad day!), I’m invested in seeing how these complicated relationships unfold in the next book.

At times, I did feel lost in the story, as there were pieces that seemed to be missing. This left me with the feeling that there’s a lot more to be revealed in the next book, and I’m eagerly anticipating how the mysteries will unfold and what the full picture will look like.

Review: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⚡️/🫑
I was actually speechless when I finished this book. I’m pretty sure I said “What the heck did I just read?”

It’s funny and quirky and so different than your typical Greek mythology retelling.
🏛️
Set in the future where gods and monsters run amok, this foster child is forced to endure horrific beatings and mental torture.

It is not an easy read. She begs for death the entire time.

However! It is also quite funny as well.

Oh! And it’s a Why Choose romance (although she technically doesn’t “choose” either of them).
🏛️
There are queer and poly representations.
🏛️
Despite my WTF reaction, I can’t wait to read the next book.

I am not sure how I feel about this book itself. But the audio narrators are exceptional. The female narrator perfectly captured the FMC’s snarky sarcasm and I greatly appreciate that.

This audiobook was absolutely phenomenal!! It grabbed my attention from the very first chapter, and I was so annoyed every time life got on the way, and I had to stop listening.
The story was addictive, and I was so thoroughly entertained from start to finish. I was not expecting all of the humor, but I was absolutely cracking up the entire time. Didn’t realize how much I needed to laugh until I started listening to this.
I loved the FMC- I truly felt for her, and I was rooting for her through every trial and challenge. Her snake sidekick was EVERYTHING- I need a friend like this in my life. And all of the MMCs were unique, complex and lovable in their own ways. The tension between the FMC & her men was palpable, and when the spice finally hit, I was done for.
The narration was also incredible. It was mostly told from the POV of the FMC, so Meg Sylvan did the majority of the narrating, and she was excellent. And the chapters with the male narrators were perfection. 🤌🏻🔥
Loved this book so much, 10/10 recommend.

HUGE thanks to the Hive, Harlequin Audio & NetGalley for my ALC!

🎧Alc review
📖3.5
🎧4/5
🌶️
This story is slow to build. However I found it interesting. Lots of world building here and secrets yet to be unfolded .

The fmc has been through it her whole life, and it hasn’t gotten easier as time goes on.

I loved the whole cast narration. Some of the dialogue felt off at points . However, over all I did enjoy this book. With the story line I will definitely be adding book two to my tbr .

this was freaking good! i 100% am not a history buff, it just never attracted my brain enough, so sometimes story retellings especially in greek mythology can just be not a winner for me, but jasmine mas created something so good and i thoroughly even enjoyed it via audiobook.

the narrators did amazing at bringing these characters and this story to life, i almost wonder if i would have enjoyed it as a eyeball read as my ears enjoyed listening to it, plus gimme Teddy Hamilton in ALL audiobooks as every mmc. i absolutely love him. Meg Sylvan, Aiden Snow and Tristan Morris also did a good job and i enjoyed their voices and takes within the story as well, but Teddy is always gold to me baby. i will hands down listen to any book he narrates.

into the characters, Alexis was bad ass, but truly she had a death wish in my opinion (quite a few fmcs i know to be this way) .. lol. the men, oh boy, the MEN. augustus, achilles, patron and kharon, all so different, yet entirely intriguing. i love getting to know these characters & im excited for whats to come. i loved the plot and how the story played out, however at points it dragged on & i caught myself saying "is all this fluff necessary per say", i still felt like it had nice progressions even with those slow points, i think had i eyeball read the book, it may have taken me longer to get through it bc of those slow points.

Listening to this via audio, man was I in for a surprise. It was slow at first but as you continue on. I was glued and I couldn’t stop listening . Alexis has been through so much and the trials she has gone through makes her such an interesting characters. As the story goes it makes sense that she was more than just a mutt. The ending to this, was such a plot twist for me. The spiciness for was closer to the end but it was nice and a surprise ! Can’t wait to see what is in store next ! Thank you net galley for letting me read this !

Blood of Hercules follows Alexis as she discovers she is part Spartan and is required to through The Crucible.

I read the audiobook version and loved it. At the end though, I still have many unanswered questions that I can only assume will be answered in future books.

4.5⭐️ 3🌶️

A why choose romantasy story with 4 love interest.

The audibook was amazing the narrators did an amazing job bringing all these characters to life and made my reading experience a good one.

The book got my attention from beginning to end the tone of the book was somewhat intertwined with a lot of comedy so it made for a fun reading experience. Alexis the MFC was very likable and I will say this she is a very lucky girl to have all these sexy hot men wanting to taking care of her 😍😍.

My favorite was Kharon was favorite of the MMCs he is cunning and manipulative but oh my I’m here for it I’m really looking forward to see where the story will take us. And can we take a moment of appreciation for Fluffy Jr. such a cute (not really) silly creature 🥺 does he has a surprise for us??? 😏

The reason is not a five stars because even though the book was entertaining I was hoping for more action and there wasn’t, I don’t know I wanted some epic battles but the book is actually very tame in that aspect.

I will definitely be reading the next book😃

I listened to this book on audio, and the narrator did a fantastic job of immersing the reader in the story! I enjoyed their interpretation of the characters. I did not feel like I needed to follow along with the physical book. However, this novel was simply too long. It dragged at certain plot points and needed faster pacing. Some events had a lot of details that were not relevant to the story. I liked the plot overall, but I am not sure I will continue the series.

Thank you Canary Street Press & Netgalley for an audio ARC!

I can’t wait for the next book in this series! As an SLP, I loved that this book had a FMC with a stutter—representation matters, and Alexis totally owns it in her sarcastic, awkward, and endearing way. Her internal dialogue was absolutely hilarious. She’s the queen of witty comebacks (even if they’re just in her head). That said, the constant mentions of wanting to kill herself were... a bit much at times.

Alexis’ backstory as a homeless, abused foster child is heartbreaking, and I couldn’t help but root for her the whole way. While the teacher-student dynamic might not be everyone’s cup of tea, it added an extra layer of tension that kept me turning the pages. And yes, it’s spicy—consider yourself warned (or intrigued)!

I’ve seen some mixed reviews, but honestly, I don’t get the hate. It’s bold, unique, and a little messy—in the best way. If you love strong FMCs who are real, flawed, and still funny as heck, give this one a shot!

At first glance, it might seem like a sweet romance story, but it actually evolves into an exciting survival tale that any fan of Greek gods will love, complete with a surprising twist!

Okay I am obsessed with this book! I'm not sure if I'll be able to wait until October for book 2 ;(
5 stars all the way!!!

A big thank you to Jasmine Mas, Harlequin Audio, and Netgalley for allowing me to listen to this audiobook!

This was my first time ever listening to an audiobook and I enjoyed every second of it. The narrators did a fantastic job getting me hooked on the story from the early chapters and making me feel immersed in the story. The narration was easy to follow along with and I hope they narrate the next book when it comes out!

This book combined my love for greek mythology, elements of dark romance, and a little bit of mystery in a dangerous school setting - I loved it!!! From seeing Alexis go from the quiet bullied girl growing up in rural Montana with her foster brother Charlie and abusive foster parents to badass spartan in the crucible through the end events of the book was crazy. The character development was insane and I'm so here for the female rage, especially after the last 20% of this book, iykyk...

Patro, Achilles, Augustus, and Kharon were everything I hoped for and more. I know there's a lot of information that as a reader I don't have yet that might sway my decision, but I am sooooo team professors right now. I knew there was going to be things revealed at the end, but wow my jaw was on the floor. Augustus and Kharon were so mysterious and alluring for the entire book and I was giggling every time an alternate pov was given in the book.

I am so happy that this was the last book that I read in 2024 because its easily one of my favorites of the year! If you're thinking about picking this book up, you have to!!

I listened to the audiobook book for this one, I went in KNOWING this was going to be bad, but thought maybe it could still be fun.

However, the audiobook narration was probably the highlight of the experience for me. The narrators brought distinct voices and energy to the story, making it engaging to listen to even when the story was terrible. The male narrators, in particular, did a great job with their roles, even though they weren't introduced until like 30% into the book.

Unfortunately, the story itself was still a let down even going in expecting to be disappointed. The FMC felt extremely immature for her age. She constantly mentions being tired, hungry, or dizzy throughout the entire book, and the humor felt forced rather than clever. The FMC also has this strange obsession with Carl Gauss (yes... the 18th century astronomer) and constantly fantasized about having a relationship with him?? The romance was also problematic, there was no chemistry between the main characters (guess because she was obsessed with an astronomer and not a chemist 🥁 I'll see myself out). The writing in general was just very poor and focused too much on trying to be quirky.

I don't know that I would recommend this to anyone.

WOW. Buckle up friends let me tell you all about this book and the roller coaster I just went on with it. I genuinely don't think I have ever loved an authors writing style more than Jasmine's in this current moment. Laughing, crying and rolling my eyes so much that my face hurts. (A literal headache from rolling my eyes so much) Before I get far into this review I am gonna say it. I went in blind, I had a small understanding of the book (obviously I read the synopsis) and I've seen there was a lot of hype. However, I had not read any other reviews, or posts about this book. And I am so glad I didn't it made this book so much more fun for me.

Will I probably get hate for saying I don't know much about Greek Mythology to begin with? I might, but that's fine. Going in I was sooooo nervous that I would be confused or even a bit lost knowing literally nothing about Greek Mythology. Yet, that was a non-issue, anytime I was feeling confused or lost, there was an answer or subtle reminder to follow it up with. This book also made me feel super smart reading it, the super advanced math talk made me feel like I was learning about it (don't crush my dreams here I am so bad at math). It was fun to be able to vicariously live that life while reading.

This plot line had me on edge the entire time I was reading. It honestly was more thrilling than most thriller books I've read recently. (oops sorry) I felt like I was digging for the answers and they were being dangled just above my head. The story as a whole didn't feel rushed or stalling at any points, the pacing was really well done and my intrigue never wavered. The moody and snarky writing style really helped me love this book.

Alexis the woman you are. If I could tell someone to read a book to understand my inner dialogue, it would be this book. The character depth and development was phenomenal, the lived experience not being shoved aside was also amazing. Even though she had been through some terrible things, she kept fighting. May I speak about Nyx? And how do I get a sassy snake that goes from 0 to 100 in moments. All of the characters in this story had a wonderful depth to them that just flowed so well. I am excited for the next book in this series.

The narration of this book was wonderful, one reason I really love listening to audiobooks is to help bring the story to life. Sadly I am not someone who can envision what is happening while reading. With that it's nice to be able to hear the story come to life. Hearing the sarcastic comments, and emotion really helps me immerse myself into a book. All of the narrators did such an amazing job really telling this story. I listened to this audiobook in 2.75x speed and had no issues with needing to go back and re-listen to any part.

My rating: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Spice Rating: 🌶️
Quote: "Home is not a place" "It's a person"

Thank you to Jasmine Mas, Harlequin Audio and Netgalley for letting me ARC/ALC listen to this book. I am in love with the story and how it was told. Cannot wait for book 2!

The audiobook narrators are fantastic, that was probably my favorite part. I was disappointed that we didn't get either of the male narrators until like 30% thought.

The actual story.... was not great. The FMC is so immature and traumatized that her internal monologue was painful to me. The sexy, dark, dangerous love interests were great but she was constantly having such teenage girl responses to things in very adult situations. Also the amount of times she was like "this deadly test isn't as bad as high school" please... I rolled my eyes so much. I was laughing at it not with it, even though many people say it was funny in a good way.