GIRL, GODDESS, QUEEN

Persephone willingly descends into the Underworld to escape an arranged marriage.

This retelling of the Hades and Persephone myth from Greek mythology focuses on Kore, a goddess frustrated from childhood by the trivial role assigned to her: goddess of the flowers and of beauty in nature. Facing an unwanted marriage arranged by her parents, Demeter and Zeus, Kore chooses to escape by throwing herself into the Underworld. There, she uses xenia, the rule of hospitality, to secure her temporary safety, despite Hades’ reluctance. As Kore explores the Underworld, she takes an interest in improving conditions for the dead and begins challenging the established order of Olympus. Her relationship with Hades evolves from wary tolerance to mutual trust; Hades is portrayed as a wounded but kind figure. Kore eventually adopts the name Persephone, claiming her new identity. As Demeter and Zeus come closer to finding Persephone, Persephone and Hades agree to marry to prevent her being forced into a marriage with another god and to protect Hades from the rumor that he’s stolen Persephone against her will. While some readers may find the modern-sounding dialogue distracting, others will appreciate the banter that gradually builds into a slow-burn romance. Characters like Styx and Tempest provide needed levity and add personality. Overall, Fitzgerald’s debut offers a fresh and appealing reimagining that emphasizes Persephone’s agency in a satisfying way.

An entertaining and engaging reinterpretation of a classic myth.