Review: Persephone by Kaitlin Bevis

Cover Blurb:

There are worse things than death, worse people too.

The "talk" was bad enough, but how many teens get told that they're a goddess? When her mom tells her, Persephone is sure her mother has lost her mind. It isn't until Boreas, the god of winter, tries to abduct her that she realizes her mother was telling the truth. Hades rescues her, and in order to safely bring Persephone to the Underworld he marks her as his bride. But Boreas will stop at nothing to get Persephone. Despite her growing feelings for Hades, Persephone wants to return to the living realm. Persephone must find a way to defeat Boreas and reclaim her life.

          Persephone was very easy to identify with, despite how *Ahem* unusual her circumstances were. When I started reading, I was a bit apprehensive that this book would turn into another pile of disgustingly artificial mush, with another teenage girl battling angst and hormones as she takes on problems. And there's nothing wrong with that once in a while, but this book was so much more enjoyable for having emotionally grounded characters. Persephone was believable and likable as she struggled with coming to terms with her situation. I felt there were a few times she could have acted more maturely, but I loved that she didn't immediately fall into the stereotypical kick-butt girl category  Oh, she was no pansy to be walked upon, but she wasn't unnaturally invulnerable either. She became a very real and unique character. I also appreciated how well developed Hades character was. Seriously, never thought I'd learn to love Hades, and, even though the relationship between Persephone and Hades hinted of insta-love, I could buy it.
Characters: 4.4 Stars
          I would classify this as a lighter, pool-side read, but it was definitely not straight fluff. The world was very well thought out. Not only were their no plot holes (which is always nice), but there were no plot excuses either! Plot excuses being defined as exciting plot developments that provide a good story but lack any true reason for existing (e.g. Captain America being forced to crash land his jet in an icy wasteland. Dramatic? Yes. Necessary? Not so much. Plot excuses appear in movies all the time, and don't get me started on a recent NYT Bestseller I've read.) I started reading and couldn't put it down, because it was fun, exciting, and the plot made sense. Every action had motivation. There was no meaningless meandering. The easiest most-direct route was taken. The story-line felt genuine. The ending was completely satisfying, but, needless to say, I will be looking up the sequel as soon as I'm done with this review!
Plot: 4.7
          This book has a very light, easy style. The story was neither forced, nor drawn out to ridiculous lengths. I didn't feel like any word was were it was simply to take up space. There was enough story there to fill the whole book, and I could relax without getting shunted out of the tale by discontinuities. I found Kaitlin Bevis' writing witty and refreshing.
Style: 4.3 Stars

Rating: 4.5 Stars
Source: from author for review
Genre: Fantasy
YA Fiction

Author Info: 
Website--kaitlinbevis.com
Twitter--@KaitlinBevis
Facebook--Kailtin Bevis