Blood of Hercules: Collector's Edition (Villains of Lore, #1) by Jasmine Mas

dark fantasy romance • greek mythology retelling • romantasy • academy romance • why choose?

Alexis Hert has always been a survivor. But when a blood test reveals a connection to the powerful Spartan elite, her quiet life is upended and she is forced into the Spartan War Academy, where immortality must be earned and survival is anything but guaranteed.

The Vibe

The Spartan War Academy is a place where monsters are made, classrooms become battlegrounds, and ancient power shapes every part of life. Alexis arrives with little understanding of the world she has suddenly entered, but she quickly discovers that she will need more than determination to survive.

Surrounded by powerful immortals, Alexis is trained by the formidable gladiators Achilles and Patro, while the mysterious Kharon and Augustus, heirs to the underworld, add an entirely different kind of tension to her new life. Her growing connection to this dangerous world makes the academy as much a test of identity as it is one of strength.

Jasmine Mas blends Greek mythology, dark fantasy, romance, supernatural powers, and academy trials into a fast-paced romantasy with a sarcastic edge. For readers who love powerful supernatural worlds, morally complicated characters, intense romantic dynamics, and heroines discovering their hidden strength, Blood of Hercules offers an immersive start to the Villains of Lore series.

Tropes & Tags

• Dark fantasy romance
• Greek mythology retelling
• Romantasy
• Why choose romance
• Academy romance
• Spartan War Academy
• Immortal characters
• Supernatural powers
• Strong heroine
• Foster child heroine
• Gladiator characters
• Mythology-inspired worldbuilding
• Dark academia
• High-stakes trials
• Action and adventure
• Found family
• Open-door romance

Books in Series (In Order)

• Blood of Hercules, #1
• Bonds of Hercules, #2
• Battle for Hercules, #3