Much like this version of the story, our lead character Elena (Persephone*) is forced to marry Kal (Hades*) after her own father makes a deal without her involvement or consent. In saying that though, the book does actually take the basic framework of the myth written in Ovid's Metamorphoses. Therefore, at face value, there's no obvious mythology there aside from Kal being broody and dark, while his new wife Elena is petite and enjoys gardening. But the comparison between the main couple (Kal & Elena) and the Ancient Greek rulers of the underworld is repeated multiple times throughout the book. This book is not marketed as a retelling of Hades and Persephone - something I think is incredibly important to point out. Promises And Pomegranates - Personal Opinions

Just because a story starts off in such a dark way, does not mean there is no pathway into the light. But will Kal be able to protect Elena without causing her to hate him? Can two people who are so different find a way to love one another? Can Elena forgive her family for their actions against her? She is taken from her family, whisked off to an island to live on, and forced to abandon her hopes and dreams for a life she never asked for.

When Elena’s father realises her safety is in danger, marriage to Kal seems the only logical conclusion - whether she likes it or not.Īs the story unfolds, Kal and Elena’s forced marriage embodies the ancient dynamics of Hades and Persephone. Kal Anderson, conversely, is known as the opposite: a retired doctor with an imposingly large figure known for his very specific service to the mafia. She’s petite, always impeccably dressed, an avid lover of poetry and the perfect daughter to her Italian American parents. Promises And Pomegranates - Story BreakdownĮlena Ricci seems innocent enough from the outside.

Oaths and Omissions by Sav R. Miller