The most recommended books about Hades

Who picked these books? Meet our 26 experts.

26 authors created a book list connected to Hades, and here are their favorite Hades books.
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What type of Hades book?

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Book cover of Hades Proper

Parker J. Cole Author Of Dark Cherub

From my list on Christian horror and thrillers.

Why am I passionate about this?

The question I have for Christian authors is this: are we Christian authors or authors who are Christian? The realm of horror is the perfect genre to explore the human condition in all of its depravity. Why do Christians avoid this genre when at the end of the day? I grew up watching horror movies with my grandmother and I enjoy the thrills and chills, the questions the genre asks, and the various ways horror can be depicted. Christians understand the dark forces that underlie our natural world. And we understand the darkness within ourselves. But unlike Hollywood horror, we know what the solution – Christ. So that’s why this is a passion of mine.

Parker's book list on Christian horror and thrillers

Parker J. Cole Why did Parker love this book?

Hades Proper is a sci-fi horror book that deals with questions of God, hell, goodness, and faith.

When I read this book, I was blown away at how relatable the characters were. The book reads pretty fast as we are taken from a massive earthquake that opens a fissure deep to the center of the earth.

After the scientist sends instruments to read what the interior of the earth is, we discover that this fissure leads to what can only be described as Hades Proper. For those familiar with Sheol, in the Old Testament, Hell was divided into two sides, the Paradise side, and the Hell side.

When our cast of characters go down this fissure, they find the Paradise side abandoned but filled with all kinds of wonders. But then, the plot thickens as they cross over into the Hell side. It’s a great book sending all sorts of…

By Sean Rainwater,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Hades Proper as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

After an onslaught of simultaneous, worldwide earthquakes ravages the Earth, a team is sent to explore a crevice that may go down farther than man has ever been able to go.Dr. William Roth is a brilliant scientist. A successful geophysicist. A prominent atheist. An alcoholic with a scarred past. When he is tasked with leading a team of 7 people on a mission that will take them deep into the Earth, he jumps at the opportunity. Millions have died around the world, the planet is in mourning. This could be the light, the hope that the world needs, and he…


Book cover of Hades' Daughter

Luciana Cavallaro Author Of Search for the Golden Serpent

From my list on fantasy that blends the past and the imaginary.

Why am I passionate about this?

In my teens, I read a book by Charles Berlitz titled Atlantis: the lost continent. I was enthralled and fascinated about this lost race of people, who were technically and sophisticated advance society and on one fateful day, vanished. My appetite for Greek mythology and ancient history grew from there, and I wanted to learn more about various ancient cultures and their mythologies. I eventually studied ancient history and continue my education as new archaeological discoveries and advancements are made. It wasn’t until a trip to Europe and seeing the Roman Forum and Colosseum, that I was inspired to write and combine my love for mythology and ancient history into historical fiction fantasy.

Luciana's book list on fantasy that blends the past and the imaginary

Luciana Cavallaro Why did Luciana love this book?

Okay, I’m stretching the friendship here with another series but this quartet by Sarah Douglass was different to other books I had read at the time.

Book 1 introduces you to a myriad of characters and begins with the myth of Theseus and the minotaur including Ariadne. Very important to know the background as the story unfolds. I loved this series. It was so unexpected as the characters are reborn into different eras and the traits of each character change as you follow them from one time period to another.

The amount of historical detail in each book was a winner for me, as was the mythology included throughout the series, from ancient Greece to ancient Britain.

By Sara Douglass,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Hades' Daughter as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Ancient Greece is a place where mortals are the play things of the gods - but at the core of their city-state is a Labyrinth, where mortals can shape the heavens to their own design. When Theseus comes away from the Labyrinth with the prize and his beloved, the Mistress of the Labyrinth, his future seems assured. But she bears him only a daughter - and when he casts her aside for this, the world changes. From that day forward, the Labyrinths decay, and power fades from the city-states. A hundred years pass, Troy falls, the Trojans scatter. Then Brutus,…


Book cover of A Court of Mist and Fury

Marcelina LoBue Author Of Masks of Faded Dreams

From my list on fantasy romance books to stay up until 3 a.m. reading.

Why am I passionate about this?

Growing up, I've always been attracted to the fantasy genre; I've been obsessed ever since my teacher introduced me to it in the first grade. What started as innocent fairy books evolved to dark, spicy fantasy romance/romantasy. Now, in addition to staying up way past my bedtime reading, I'm a teenage author of my own YA fantasy romance book, Masks of Faded Dreams. This genre has truly changed my life. As cliche as that sounds, it's true; it's both my form of escapism and an eye-opening experience into worlds I'd never known existed. 

Marcelina's book list on fantasy romance books to stay up until 3 a.m. reading

Marcelina LoBue Why did Marcelina love this book?

Do you ever have those books that, no matter how late it is or how tired you are, you just can’t stop reading? That was me with this book. 

This is the second book in the A Court of Thorns and Roses series, and since the first book was extremely boring, I was hesitant to start this one. I'm so glad I did, however, because it quite literally changed my life.

The characters feel like family and fill a growing hole in my heart to replace what I've lost. The main character, Feyre, is so resilient with her past trauma, and it helps me conquer mine. I also adored the romance between Feyre and Rhys–I will forever ship them. 

By Sarah J. Maas,

Why should I read it?

8 authors picked A Court of Mist and Fury as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

THE SECOND BOOK IN THE #1 BESTSELLING SERIES

'With bits of Buffy, Game Of Thrones and Outlander, this is a glorious series of total joy' - STYLIST
_____________________________
Feyre survived Amarantha's clutches to return to the Spring Court - but at a steep cost. Though she now possesses the powers of the High Fae, her heart remains human, and it can't forget the terrible deeds she performed to save Tamlin's people.

Nor has Feyre forgotten her bargain with Rhysand, the mesmerising High Lord of the feared Night Court. As Feyre navigates his dark web of political games and tantalising promises,…


Book cover of Not a Chocolate Snowball's Chance in Hades

Kate Berberich Author Of Picture Imperfect

From my list on unpredictable protagonists.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’m going to date myself horribly here, but…I’m an old-school fan of the guy in the grey hat. Think Kerr Avon of Blake’s 7. The guy you could never quite predict. Or Han Solo until about halfway through The Empire Strikes Back. Are they going to do the right thing? Are they going to follow their heart? And it’s so satisfying when they do! Of course, it’s equally satisfying when they go right ahead and sucker punch the bad guy, ‘cuz hey—only the good guys give warnings, right?

Kate's book list on unpredictable protagonists

Kate Berberich Why did Kate love this book?

So you think you know your mythology?

The King of the Underworld must be a bad guy, right? And those folks up on Olympus are the good guys? Yeah…maybe rethink that a bit. There’s more to this Hades than you’ll find in dusty old mythology. He cares for his realm and its denizens, and he’s looking for a queen to share his kingdom and be his equal partner. 

By Lianne Kelly,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Not a Chocolate Snowball's Chance in Hades as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Held in Demeter's overprotective grip, power burns deep and seductive in Persephone. She will do whatever it takes to win her freedom and the Olympian Duel of Yule.

When Hades, King of the Underworld, swaggers into the baking competition, Persephone's competitive spirit rises to meet his challenge. The two clash over more than cookies. Until a little chaos interrupts the competition. She shouldn't trust Hades, but a fiery death with Ares doesn't appeal. An escape to the Underworld leads to a passion that burns hotter than Tartarus.

Persephone is all too aware of Olympian rules. Loving Hades comes with a…


Book cover of The Goblin’s Bride

Laurie Bowler Author Of The Realm of Witches

From my list on fantasy you will get lost inside of.

Why am I passionate about this?

I especially love reading fantasy stories and stories based on actual historical events. I've been an avid reader since I was a little girl; while my siblings were playing outside or inside with toys I was the one sat curled up in the corner reading. I've also worked hard and gained qualifications in creative writing. I've also had a passion for writing and have written my own fantasy novels; being an author is simply amazing because you can create characters that are unique and special as well as true to life, plus you get to create worlds that are entirely different to our own. 

Laurie's book list on fantasy you will get lost inside of

Laurie Bowler Why did Laurie love this book?

I loved this book because it is both captivating and well written with different worlds and forbidden romance. This story is based not only on enemies who become lovers but also has sizzling tension and an epic dark mystery element, all beautifully written and combined. 

This book immediately pulled me into the author's world. The tension inside was just as unique as the storyline itself. There is nothing quite like reading a book that has you on the edge of your seat but melting your heart at the same time; definitely, a surprising and unique twist combining many elements.

By Leigh Kelsey, Lysandra Glass,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Goblin’s Bride as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Marry him. Kiss him. Kill him. But never love him.

The goblin prince killed my sister. For years, I've waited for justice, and I've finally found the perfect opportunity: Kier Kollastus, the prince himself, will agree to peace with his human enemies if a sacrifice is given. A human bride.

With my face veiled and my knives hidden, I offer myself as the prince’s sacrifice, wearing a liar’s smile as I wait to cut his throat when he sleeps.

But Kier is indestructible except for one night every year. And worse—he’s not the barbarian goblins are supposed to be. He's…


Book cover of Nico Bravo and the Hound of Hades

Mike Lawrence Author Of Star Scouts

From my list on to hear your kids laugh out loud.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’m a stay-at-home working dad, and have handed my boys countless books to keep them entertained so I could get some work done. There’s something magical about giving your kid a book that sparks their love of reading. In my own experience, adventure books that made my boys laugh out loud would captivate my kids for hours…and keep them out of my hair.

Mike's book list on to hear your kids laugh out loud

Mike Lawrence Why did Mike love this book?

Usually I pick out books for my kids, not this one though. My youngest picked this up at the library and loved it so much he told me that I just had to read it, and I’m glad I did! I love mythology and Cavallaro did such a great job taking classic myths and monsters and turning them on their head. Plus, there’s a sword that teleports your enemy’s skeleton into outer space, how great is that?!

By Mike Cavallaro,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Nico Bravo and the Hound of Hades as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 8, 9, 10, and 11.

What is this book about?

Got a problem? At Vulcan's Celestial Supply Shop, you can find the magical merchandise to set things right. The seasoned staff-a kid named Nico Bravo, a sphynx named Lula, and a unicorn named Buck-pride themselves on providing "legendary service and expertise in all areas of the arcane."

But Nico's world is about to be turned upside down, and it's all thanks his latest customer: Eowulf, the pint-size descendant of the monster slayer Beowulf. Determined to carry on the family business, this would-be warrior plans to slay Cerberus, the terrifying, three-headed hound of Hades.

There's just one problem-Cerberus is the only…


Book cover of Daughters of Olympus

Malayna Evans Author Of Neferura

From my list on badass women who left a mark on the ancient world.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’m an Egyptologist by training and a storyteller by nature. Fascinated by the origins of patriarchy since I was a small girl raised by strong women in a patriarchal context, I turned to Greek and Roman history for answers. I earned an MA and a richer understanding of the civilizations that influenced the classical period, which led to the study of Egypt and Mesopotamia and finally to a Ph.D. in Egyptology. At heart, I’m more creative than scholar. Telling stories that bring ancient Egypt to life and leave readers better informed of the challenges women have faced, and sometimes overcome, is my passion.

Malayna's book list on badass women who left a mark on the ancient world

Malayna Evans Why did Malayna love this book?

This is one of my all-time favorite retellings.

I love how Lynn shows you the story first through Demeter’s eyes, then Persephone’s. The vastly different perspectives of mother and daughter resonated.

But my favorite thing about this book was the unique and empathetic picture it drew of Hades. Lynn managed not only to challenge my idea of the goddesses but of the god at the heart of the story as well. Unexpected but appreciated. 

By Hannah Lynn,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Daughters of Olympus as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

A daughter pulled between two worlds and a mother willing destroy both to protect her...
Demeter: a goddess of life, living half of one.
Demeter did not always live in fear. Once, she loved the world and the humans who inhabited it. After an act of devastating violence, though, she hides herself away among the grasses and wildflowers. Her only solace is her daughter...
Before she was Persephone, she was Core.
Core is as bright as summer and devoted to her mother, even during their millennia in exile from Olympus. But she craves freedom. Naive and determined, she secretly builds…


Book cover of Acheron

L. Becker Author Of Angel's Gate

From my list on fantasy with a healthy dose of myth.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’ve always been fascinated by folklore and religious myth. A passion further inspired by my path as an Eclectic Pagan, and my pursuit of a Masters in Mythological Studies. My interest in mythology was first inspired by my mother as she told us bedtime stories filled with the exploits of heroes, of gods, and angels. My upbringing in Christianity introduced me to the mythologies of Judaism, which eventually led me into the greater world of Paganism and an entire universe filled with a multitude of pantheons filled with their own gods, heroes, and legends. 

L.'s book list on fantasy with a healthy dose of myth

L. Becker Why did L. love this book?

Book 14 of Sherrilyn Kenyon’s Dark-Hunter series, Acheron is a heartbreaking masterpiece. Delving deeply into the heartbreaking past of Acheron, a demi-god and leader of the Dark-Hunters, we at long last discover his origins and true self. After years of solitude and betrayal, he is given his final redemption and love. My favorite in this stellar series.

By Sherrilyn Kenyon,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Acheron as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Eleven thousand years ago, a god was born. Cursed into the body of a human, Acheron spent a lifetime of shame. But the strongest steel is forged from the fires of hell...Acheron's human death unleashed an unspeakable horror that almost destroyed the earth. Then, brought back against his will, he became the sole defender of mankind. Only, it was never that simple. For centuries, Acheron has fought for our survival and hidden a past he'll do anything to keep concealed. Until a lone woman who refuses to be intimidated by him threatens his very existence. Now his survival - and…


Book cover of Skin Game

Wayne Thomas Batson Author Of Dreamtreaders

From my list on fantasy with a unique ingredient or twist.

Why am I passionate about this?

I believe with all of my heart that each one of us was created with two achingly powerful inner drives: 1) the longing for new worlds and 2) the desperate urge to do something meaningful. I simply could never believe that human beings are all simply cosmic accidents produced by some sort of cosmic casino. I believe God created people and gave us each an instinct to seek our true home. The books I write—all 22 of them—are tales of flawed individuals, thrown into unexpected, life-changing events, and given the chance to journey through many astoundingly lush worlds, all in an effort to do the seemingly impossible.

Wayne's book list on fantasy with a unique ingredient or twist

Wayne Thomas Batson Why did Wayne love this book?

Harry Dresden is a detective in modern day Chicago. He’s also a wizard.

Jim Butcher twists the fantasy genre by setting the story in modern times but creating an international subculture of vampires, Sidhe, archangels, demons, bigfoot, and pretty much any other mysterious bit of folklore. Heck, you’ll even meet Hades!

This series has hooked me from the beginning but not just because of all the mystical, cool, fantasy, creepy, awesomeness. It’s the cast of characters that connect so deeply with me. In Skin Game, Harry begins to fear that the use of his power is changing him, turning him into something of a monster. In a sense, he’s questioning his humanity and his heart.

I have gone through this self-exploration so many times. When I read Skin Games, I found myself in tears because Harry’s plight so closely connected with my own. It was deeply encouraging. Oh, and by…

By Jim Butcher,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Skin Game as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Harry Dresden, Chicago's only professional wizard, is about to have a very bad day. As Winter Knight to the Queen of Air and Darkness, Harry never knows what the scheming Mab might want him to do. Usually, it's something awful.

This time, it's worse than that. Mab's involved Harry in a smash-and-grab heist run by one of his most despised enemies to recover the literal Holy Grail from the vaults of the greatest treasure horde in the world - which belongs to the one and only Hades, Lord of the Underworld.

Dresden's always been tricky, but he's going to have…


Book cover of Promises and Pomegranates

N.J. Adel Author Of The Italian Marriage

From my list on arranged marriage mafia romance.

Why am I passionate about this?

As a woman who comes from a culture that normalizes arranged/forced marriages, turning it into a more delicious fantasy in books rather than a bitter harsh reality has become an obsession of mine. Now, as I’ve written an entire series in the trope, I read and enjoy many by other awesome authors, too. I hope you enjoy the books on the list as much as I have.

N.J.'s book list on arranged marriage mafia romance

N.J. Adel Why did N.J. love this book?

It’s amazing to see a new author soar high like this. I loved the darkness of this book, the viciousness of the antihero, the taboo, and, of course, the high steam dosage. Promises and Pomegranates is a Hades and Persephone modern retelling turned into a sizzling forced marriage mafia romance worthy of your time.

By Sav R. Miller,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Promises and Pomegranates as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Elena

To most, Kal Anderson is a villain.

Harbinger of death, keeper of souls, frequenter of nightmares.

Doctor Death. Hades incarnate.

They say he stole me.

Usurped my fiancé and filled the cracks in my heart with empty promises.

Imprinted his crimson fingerprints on my psyche and tried to set me free.

They’re not wrong, per se.

Except it was my choice to stay.


Kal

To most, Elena Ricci is an innocent.

Goddess of springtime, lover of poetry, angel of my nightmares.

Little one. Persephone personified.

They say I ruined her.

Shattered her virtue and devoured her soul like a…