The Netherworlds: Curse of Fate by Kaylin R. Boyd

 The Netherworlds: Curse of Fate by Kaylin R. Boyd | Book Review

A Mythological Tapestry of Rebellion and Romance 

Kaylin R. Boyd’s "The Netherworlds: Curse of a Fate"  is a gripping fusion of divine intrigue, cross-pantheon alliances, and simmering romance, all woven into a tale that challenges the very threads of destiny. With a bold premise that pits gods against the Fates themselves, this book is a refreshing entry into the mythological fantasy genre, blending Greek and Norse lore with originality and flair.  

The story centres on a nameless, imprisoned god—stripped of his divinity and trapped as a wish-granting Jinni in Tartarus—whose chance encounter with Hypnos, the Greek god of Dreams, sparks a daring escape. Meanwhile, Hypnos’ twin, Thanatos (Death), conspires with the Norse trickster Loki to overthrow the Fates, enlisting Eros, the god of Desire, in a quest to uncover a mysterious weapon. 

Boyd masterfully juggles multiple plotlines, from the cluttered chaos of Loki’s hoarded townhome to the existential struggles of gods grappling with autonomy. The Netherworlds themselves are richly imagined, offering a labyrinthine backdrop that merges underworld realms with a sense of claustrophobic entrapment.  

The ensemble cast shines, particularly the morally ambiguous Loki and Eros, whose burgeoning romance adds heat and vulnerability to their scheming. Their dynamic—chaos meets desire—is electric, balancing wit and tenderness against a backdrop of divine machinations. The lost god’s journey of self-discovery serves as an emotional anchor, his vulnerability contrasting starkly with the arrogance of seasoned deities like Thanatos, whose ruthless ambition drives the rebellion. Hypnos, often overshadowed in myth, emerges as a nuanced figure torn between loyalty to his brother and empathy for the Jinni’s plight.  

The novel’s greatest strength lies in its audacious blending of mythologies, avoiding cliché by focusing on lesser-tread figures (Hypnos, Thanatos) and cross-cultural pairings (Loki/Eros). The romantic subplot is integrated seamlessly, enhancing rather than overshadowing the central conflict. While the large cast and dual pantheons may initially overwhelm, Boyd’s deft characterisation ensures each god’s voice remains distinct. Some readers might crave more exploration of the Netherworlds’ mechanics, but the ambiguity serves the story’s enigmatic tone.  

Overall, "The Netherworlds: Curse of a Fate"  is a triumph for fans of mythic fantasy, offering a fresh take on divine rebellion with heart, humor, and high stakes. 

Purchase The Netherworlds here.

Purchase here.