River of Shadows (Underworld Gods, Book 1) By Karina Halle

"River of Shadows" weaves a captivating tale blending elements of mythology and fantasy. When Hanna Heikkinen's father dies under mysterious circumstances, she embarks on a journey to the mythical underworld to rescue him. Alongside Rasmus, she navigates the treacherous River of Shadows, encountering monsters and facing Death himself.

In this twisted Nordic mythology, reminiscent of Hades and Persephone's tale, Hanna finds herself caught in a bargain with Death. He offers to release her father in exchange for her hand in marriage and eternal servitude in the Realm of the Dead. Despite the stakes, Hanna's fierce determination drives her to accept, but she soon discovers that even noble sacrifices come with unforeseen consequences.

"River of Shadows" delves into themes of love, sacrifice, and the blurred lines between light and darkness. With its immersive storytelling and tantalizing narrative, the book captures the reader's imagination from start to finish. The blend of Beauty and the Beast elements adds depth to the characters and their relationships, while nods to Alice in Wonderland infuse the narrative with a sense of whimsy and surrealism.

While the book carries a warning for sensitive readers due to its graphic content and dubious consent situations, it offers a rich and engaging reading experience. As the first installment in the Underworld Gods series, "River of Shadows" sets the stage for an epic saga filled with intrigue, danger, and unexpected twists.