Book excerpt: Hades, the Lord of the Underworld, has no patience for the living or his Olympian brethren. His purpose is order, administering justice to those who enter his realm, and keeping the balance decreed by the Fates. Meeting Persephone sways his focus, her gentle sweetness threatening his control. But he will not be tempted. Hades awakens something within the Goddess Persephone. She feels no fear from his brooding presence. In truth, she's never felt so alive. Every stolen moment together only confirms her instinct: he is meant to be hers. Such a powerful union will face opposition - from Olympus, her troubled betrothed, the Fates, even Hades himself. But she is determined to win his heart. Poseidon's scheming wreaks havoc upon Persephone. Hades has no choice - he must rescue her.