Book: Rely on Death by Rinn Marrell
Reviewed by thebookishkiwikaz
Rating: 4/5
I must admit this book was different from what I expected, but in the best possible way. From the dedication to the final page, I was invested in finding out what would happen next. While I wasn't completely hooked every moment, DAMN, did this book get me.
This is definitely a slower-paced story focused on world-building and setting the foundation for the rest of the trilogy. If you're looking for a fast-moving plot, this may not be the book for you. For me, though, the gothic atmosphere, Persephone's isolation, and the mystery surrounding her kept me turning the pages.
I loved how Greek mythology was woven into a contemporary setting. It felt fresh and unique, and I especially enjoyed the different take on familiar characters and creatures. Persephone stole my heart. After everything she's endured, it's impossible not to feel for her, and her strength despite it all made her easy to root for.
Then there's Thanatos. As a lover of morally grey MMCs, he was everything I wanted. The yearning, the tension, and the protective "touch her and die" energy had me completely invested. Somehow, the author even had me feeling safe with the literal God of Death.
The side characters were another highlight, especially Billy, who was an absolute sweetheart.
And that ending? My heart broke over the losses, my jaw dropped at the revelations, and I genuinely never saw any of it coming. The final chapters completely blindsided me in the best way possible.
This book feels like the beginning of something much bigger, and if that ending is anything to go by, this trilogy is going to be one incredible ride. Book two cannot come soon enough because I need answers ASAP.