"Fans of mythology will love this novel, as will those who enjoy stories about found families and character-driven historical fantasy. I strongly recommend it for teens and adults
who appreciate heartfelt, witty, and empowering spins on
classic mythology. Despina the Anti-Cupid is ultimately a tale about forging your own destiny—even when it means
questioning the gods."
—Reedsy
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Despina, a young, strong-willed member of the Cupid family, has questions. She is skeptical and has doubts about her father’s business, and of all things, love. Then, on a routine trip in the mid-1940s, she meets a mortal…and gives
her heart away.
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Everett receives his draft notice. Soon, he’ll go to Europe to fight in the war.
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Angry and despondent, Despina returns home, where she steals two special arrows—items always forbidden to so much as touch. Upon her return to Earth, she learns Everett is gone. Entrenched in heartache and bitterness, Despina fires the arrows into two innocent humans in a jealous rage. As time passes, it becomes obvious she has somehow cursed the unsuspecting mortals…a couple who are now her friends.
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In the meantime, Zeus, the Lord of Olympus, grows more irritated that Despina is on Earth, when the Gods of Olympus are no longer allowed to live among mortals..
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How will the curse ultimately manifest itself? Will Despina’s family suffer for her impetuousness? Can anything—or anyone—help her friends? And, more importantly, will Despina ever find happiness…or Everett?
"Richardson really stirs the imagination and heart with this novel. What sets it apart from most romances are the characters, whose names may be familiar, but now they are center-stage in a romantic drama that will keep you invested and longing for a happy ending. This author knows how to play with strong emotions…jealousy is just one of them…and the plot is relatable and human even though it involves mythical gods and goddesses. It has you thinking of mythology in a whole new way and brings these figures to life."
—Reader Views