Review : Acheron by Sherrilyn Kenyon

Title : Acheron Author : Sherrilyn Kenyon Reading Dates : 15 Aug - 17 Aug 2010
The Dark-Hunter series.
Acheron is from the Dark-Hunter series. Check out the link below for a listing of the books in the series according to reading order. Sherrilyn Kenyon's Dark-Hunter series in Reading Order
From goodreads :
The most anticipated story in the blockbuster Dark-Hunter series. The never-before-revealed story of the Dark-Hunter leader, Acheron. He was made human in order to escape death, but in death he was reborn a god. . . Eleven thousand years ago a god was born. Cursed into the body of a human, Acheron spent a lifetime of shame. However, his human death unleashed an unspeakable horror that almost destroyed the earth. Then, brought back against his will, Acheron became the sole defender of mankind. Only it was never that simple. For centuries, he has fought for our survival and hidden a past he’ll do anything to keep concealed. Until a lone woman who refuses to be intimidated by him threatens his very existence. Now his survival, and ours, hinges on hers and old enemies reawaken and unite to kill them both. War has never been more deadly... or more fun.

Book Review of Acheron.
Acheron's story remains a favourite of mine within the Dark-Hunter series mainly because of its main protagonist.

The mysterious and long-suffering leader of the Dark-Hunters has been a long time favourite character since his first appearance in the series. How did someone so apparently powerful and wise end up as a slave to a goddess much weaker than him ? Why would he sacrifice so much for the largely ungrateful Dark-Hunters or even tolerate Artemis' frequently cruel outbursts ? These are just a few of the questions surrounding him that got me following the Dark-Hunter series.

While the earlier books have dropped frequent hints of his past, this book answers all these questions definitively. It also gives insight into his motivations and make it easier to understand how he can at times be so forgiving while reacting rather harshly at others. As an added advantage, the story is also written in such a way so that those new to the series can read this one on its own.

Aside from Acheron himself, what I like about the book is his interactions with some of the other characters. In most of the earlier books, Acheron is usually considered ancient by those in the know. To have Savitar treat him like a youngster despite his age is often amusing and refreshing. Then, there is also his relationship with Simi. I love the way she keeps offering to help him by eating the 'heifer-goddess' and her literal adherence to his orders which frequently gets him into trouble. Most important of all is the self-belief Tory gives to Acheron. It is about time that he realizes he is more than worthy of being loved.

Another plus is Artemis's comeuppance. I love that the one to give it to her was Tory and also the way this was accomplished. Acheron deserves no less.

Last but not least is Savitar's attitude when it comes to Acheron. His altruism is in opposition to his oft spouted beliefs. This naturally leads me to speculate on his identity. I will be looking forward to having this mystery resolved and having my guesses either confirmed or refuted.

Overall, my only complaint is in the quickness which Acheron and Tory's relationship starts. It would have been more realistic if they had more time to get to know each other considering Acheron's history. Still this is one on my keeper list.

My conclusion : A book I'd recommend to paranormal romance readers.

My favourite books from Sherrilyn Kenyon's Dark-Hunter and Dream-Hunter series so far :

• Dance with the Devil
• Sins of the Night
• Devil May Cry
• Acheron

Want to ...

• Read another review at Geeky Blogger's Book Blog
• Read an excerpt from Acheron at the author's site.