Hot as Hades is an expressive phrase emphasizing extreme heat or intensity, drawing from Greek mythology by alluding to Hades, god of the underworld…
Hot as Hades is an expressive phrase emphasizing extreme heat or intensity, drawing from Greek mythology by alluding to Hades, god of the underworld whose realm was often described as infernally hot. The expression is often applied to describe an extremely hot day or situation – like summer heatwaves – while it could also describe spicy dishes or intense emotions.
Midwest Americans first heard this saying while living among Dutch immigrants in Kaskaskia, Illinois. Although its origin remains uncertain, its usage has spread throughout the South and beyond. If you find yourself sweltering during a hot day of summer, locals might use this expression to describe it: a phrase such as “hot enough to melt a horse’s saddle”. On particularly humid days this expression becomes even more disabling.
Persephone may not have chosen Hades as her vacation partner in mind initially, but she finds herself drawn to him nonetheless. From their first encounter, his seductive touch bewitches her; while his intimidating appearance can be intimidating at first, they quickly melt around her body. Over time however, Hades starts appreciating more than just Persephone’s curves; yet is very aware of his captive status until sister Zeus returns her from Hell.
Hot as Hades is an atmospheric and romantic take on the Persephone myth, featuring an arrogant god, an outraged goddess, and some supernatural tension between them that sets off fireworks in Hades’ Underworld. Regina writes this short paranormal short story as her first attempt in that genre; hopefully it won’t be her last!
Regina hails from Chicago, IL and has worked as a journalist for more than two decades. Her writing has appeared in many publications such as The Huffington Post and Daily Beast; additionally she regularly contributes to XOJane.
When she’s not writing, she enjoys reading, eating ice cream and hiking in their rural Connecticut home with two cats. Additionally, she works with nonprofit organizations and volunteers internationally.
As a native Southerner, she is passionate about language and the power of words. In particular, she enjoys exploring how idioms have developed over time as well as discovering their source. You can visit her blog for more of her writing or follow her on social media platforms such as Twitter and Facebook for further updates.