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The Eater of Gods
Nothing really dies if it's remembered, his wife had told him.
In the dying village of Al Tarfuk, lost among the war-stained dunes of eastern Libya, professor Norman Haas learns the location of the tomb that had been his wife’s life pursuit. The final resting place of Kiya, the lost queen of Akhenaten, whose history had been etched from the stone analogues of history for her heresies against the long absent pantheon of Egyptian gods.
He never expected to discover that the tomb was the final resting place to more than the dead. And as his team of researchers find themselves trapped inside the ancient tomb, Norman realizes all too soon that his wife was right—
Nothing really dies if it's remembered…
But some things are best forgotten.
Dan Franklin’s debut supernatural thriller is a tale of grief, of loneliness, and of an ageless, hungry fury that waits with ready tooth and claw beneath the sand. "This neat little book, Franklin’s debut, is much fresher than its B-movie premise might suggest. Franklin is a horror writer to watch." - Publishers Weekly "Franklin's slowly advancing sense of dread, claustrophobia and menace in "The Eater of the Gods" is calibrated with a bomb maker's precision, and the atmospheric descriptions are stunningly done." - The Day
In the dying village of Al Tarfuk, lost among the war-stained dunes of eastern Libya, professor Norman Haas learns the location of the tomb that had been his wife’s life pursuit. The final resting place of Kiya, the lost queen of Akhenaten, whose history had been etched from the stone analogues of history for her heresies against the long absent pantheon of Egyptian gods.
He never expected to discover that the tomb was the final resting place to more than the dead. And as his team of researchers find themselves trapped inside the ancient tomb, Norman realizes all too soon that his wife was right—
Nothing really dies if it's remembered…
But some things are best forgotten.
Dan Franklin’s debut supernatural thriller is a tale of grief, of loneliness, and of an ageless, hungry fury that waits with ready tooth and claw beneath the sand. "This neat little book, Franklin’s debut, is much fresher than its B-movie premise might suggest. Franklin is a horror writer to watch." - Publishers Weekly "Franklin's slowly advancing sense of dread, claustrophobia and menace in "The Eater of the Gods" is calibrated with a bomb maker's precision, and the atmospheric descriptions are stunningly done." - The Day
156 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 1, 2023
68 people are currently reading
915 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 202 reviews
April 8, 2023
Norman is a professor who is continuing his wife’s legacy, searching for a forgotten tomb of a lost queen of Akhenaten in Libya. Despite the difficulties and possible dangers, he wants to honor her memory. He and his team of researchers make their way there but are surprised to find that there is much more to this tomb than initially thought. As strange things begin to occur, the team questions their sanity and if this knowledge is really worth the price it’s demanding.
This was written in a way that felt like a classic, old-timey adventure, but that wasn’t necessarily a good thing. It’s set in modern times, but unfortunately relies on some old-fashioned mindsets/thoughts that shouldn’t have been included. Especially as the main characters were associated with a university and should have known better. Outdated ways of thinking and antiquated terms were used that made me question the legitimacy of these folks who were supposed to be much more knowledgeable (e.g., using the word “treasure” instead of “artifacts,” using the term “caveman” to describe something lacking complexity, etc.). That was disappointing. There was also no commentary included on the subtle racism included and the problematic thinking surrounding westerners casually pillaging other cultures’ sacred or honored sites. I understand that the entire work relied on these plot points, but I wish the author had included some sort of commentary or criticism on it. Or at least set this work in the early to mid-twentieth century, when these thoughts and approaches were cultural norms for the west.
The characters also left me wanting more. There was some development to the protagonist, but the rest were stereotypes that could be found in any adventure book of this type. It was impossible to feel emotionally invested in their stories, which was frustrating and detracted from any tension this book should have had. The atmosphere also just wasn’t there, and I’m not sure if it’s because the setting wasn’t incorporated as well as it could have been or if it was largely due to the bland characters.
Overall, this read had some promise but fell short in many important aspects. My thanks to NetGalley and Cemetery Dance Publications for allowing me to read this work. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
This was written in a way that felt like a classic, old-timey adventure, but that wasn’t necessarily a good thing. It’s set in modern times, but unfortunately relies on some old-fashioned mindsets/thoughts that shouldn’t have been included. Especially as the main characters were associated with a university and should have known better. Outdated ways of thinking and antiquated terms were used that made me question the legitimacy of these folks who were supposed to be much more knowledgeable (e.g., using the word “treasure” instead of “artifacts,” using the term “caveman” to describe something lacking complexity, etc.). That was disappointing. There was also no commentary included on the subtle racism included and the problematic thinking surrounding westerners casually pillaging other cultures’ sacred or honored sites. I understand that the entire work relied on these plot points, but I wish the author had included some sort of commentary or criticism on it. Or at least set this work in the early to mid-twentieth century, when these thoughts and approaches were cultural norms for the west.
The characters also left me wanting more. There was some development to the protagonist, but the rest were stereotypes that could be found in any adventure book of this type. It was impossible to feel emotionally invested in their stories, which was frustrating and detracted from any tension this book should have had. The atmosphere also just wasn’t there, and I’m not sure if it’s because the setting wasn’t incorporated as well as it could have been or if it was largely due to the bland characters.
Overall, this read had some promise but fell short in many important aspects. My thanks to NetGalley and Cemetery Dance Publications for allowing me to read this work. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
June 8, 2023
The story started strong with the finding of an Egyptian tomb and some mysterious traps inside. But the numerous references to the deceased wife of the narrator Norman and the tedious proceeding of the tale considerably slowed down the horror. Of course there were some very eerie moments and hints of a uncanny back story (e.g. the title of the book) but with that set of characters it never really took completely off. The ingredients were excellent though and some moments were truly good. Recommended for Tomb Raider fans...
September 4, 2023
So near but so far!
This short novella did not do justice to the subject matter. It could have been so good but, unfortunately, it wasn't. The idea was good but the characters lacked depth and originality. They all seemed like a bunch of extras from central casting, entirely forgetful. I nearly gave up on the story half way through but carried on despite a growing sense of inertia. This tale could and should have been a real, edge of your seat, heart in mouth, page turner. Unfortunately, it just failed to hit the spot - for me at least.
This short novella did not do justice to the subject matter. It could have been so good but, unfortunately, it wasn't. The idea was good but the characters lacked depth and originality. They all seemed like a bunch of extras from central casting, entirely forgetful. I nearly gave up on the story half way through but carried on despite a growing sense of inertia. This tale could and should have been a real, edge of your seat, heart in mouth, page turner. Unfortunately, it just failed to hit the spot - for me at least.
July 22, 2023
Reminded me of Indiana Jones in parts. The writing was strong, but I felt the story would have benefitted from more backstory. It felt like a long short story, a segment of a longer movie, and I wanted to understand Norman more. However, it was a quick and entertaining read. The author has a talent at setting a scene and getting into the character's head.
January 8, 2023
3.0 Stars
I have always had a fascination with ancient Egypt so I was excited for this novel.
This book was surprisingly short and I wish it had been longer to better flesh out the characters and story. The story starts off so fast that I found myself checking if I had missed a book or a prologue. The story proceeds at at fast pace and never slows down. It's an easy book to fly through but I would have preferred the story to take a breath. The book lacked suspense because the action never ceased long enough to create tension. I liked pieces of this book but I wasn't completely satisfied by how those pieces came together.
Disclaimer I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
I have always had a fascination with ancient Egypt so I was excited for this novel.
This book was surprisingly short and I wish it had been longer to better flesh out the characters and story. The story starts off so fast that I found myself checking if I had missed a book or a prologue. The story proceeds at at fast pace and never slows down. It's an easy book to fly through but I would have preferred the story to take a breath. The book lacked suspense because the action never ceased long enough to create tension. I liked pieces of this book but I wasn't completely satisfied by how those pieces came together.
Disclaimer I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
October 25, 2025
DNF at 39%. This wasn't written badly, but I really couldn't connect with the characters or the premise. It was very slow in the beginning portion and then seemed to jump right into some of the horror aspects. However, there was just a disconnect there that wasn't rectified from that I saw. Might be more of interest to readers who are looking for less horror and more adventure type stories.
May 6, 2023
The Eater of Gods has been getting some glowing reviews and hype especially on the Facebook group "Books of Horror". I thought the premise sounded interesting and it's short so thought I would love this.
I felt it was just ok and pretty forgettable. It reads more like an adventure story or Indiana Jones knock off but not really in a good way. The characters other than Norman our protagonist are not fleshed out and little is known about them. Norman gets a bit more character development however I didn't really connect with him either.
Our characters from a university go to seek out the long lost tomb of Kiya a lost Queen of Akhenaten who has been erased from history. They are warned by locals not to attend however ignore this advice. They become trapped in the tomb and not is all as it seems.
The action is average and very little tension as the characters are there in name only so I did'nt really care what happens to them. Its predictable but written well for a first time author. It just wasn't for me but I'm not upset I read it just found it to be average and glad it was short.
I felt it was just ok and pretty forgettable. It reads more like an adventure story or Indiana Jones knock off but not really in a good way. The characters other than Norman our protagonist are not fleshed out and little is known about them. Norman gets a bit more character development however I didn't really connect with him either.
Our characters from a university go to seek out the long lost tomb of Kiya a lost Queen of Akhenaten who has been erased from history. They are warned by locals not to attend however ignore this advice. They become trapped in the tomb and not is all as it seems.
The action is average and very little tension as the characters are there in name only so I did'nt really care what happens to them. Its predictable but written well for a first time author. It just wasn't for me but I'm not upset I read it just found it to be average and glad it was short.
April 9, 2022
I think most of us had to have at least once had the thought of how cool it would be to be an archaeologist digging up Roman artifacts, finding Egyptian treasures or discovering lost Mayan cities. I'll admit I've had that thought once or twice in my life. At least until this book scared the shit out of me. But to be fair, I loved every page of it. My only "complaint" is that the story wasn't longer so I could've kept on reading. Because I would've done that with pleasure.
When Norman Haas' wife dies from cancer her last wish is to find the last resting place of Kiya, one of the wives of the infamous heretic pharaoh Akhenaten. Still grieving for his wives when he finally does find the tomb and planning on exploring it, something locals had warned him to not do, with his team of brilliant explorers he didn't expect to find himself trapped inside along it with his colleagues with no apparant way out. When the omnious whispers surround them and people start to die, they begin to realize that something dark and ancient is stalking them.
I was impressed with how such a short book (around 150 pages) could leave such an impact. I'm by no means an expert in the genre but it definitely didn't feel like a typical supernatural thriller. There was a lot of relevant themes involved like grief, loss, death. And that gave the book an edge that some other books might not have per se, in my opinion.
Of course there were also a lot of scary and macabre moments that made me think archaeologists should just leave tombs alone. There was also this intense claustrophobic feeling the moment Norman and the other characters started entering the tomb that almost had me gasping for breath myself. Which only gives more credit to the author for being able to write such a dark atmosphere. I would highly recommend this book!
When Norman Haas' wife dies from cancer her last wish is to find the last resting place of Kiya, one of the wives of the infamous heretic pharaoh Akhenaten. Still grieving for his wives when he finally does find the tomb and planning on exploring it, something locals had warned him to not do, with his team of brilliant explorers he didn't expect to find himself trapped inside along it with his colleagues with no apparant way out. When the omnious whispers surround them and people start to die, they begin to realize that something dark and ancient is stalking them.
I was impressed with how such a short book (around 150 pages) could leave such an impact. I'm by no means an expert in the genre but it definitely didn't feel like a typical supernatural thriller. There was a lot of relevant themes involved like grief, loss, death. And that gave the book an edge that some other books might not have per se, in my opinion.
Of course there were also a lot of scary and macabre moments that made me think archaeologists should just leave tombs alone. There was also this intense claustrophobic feeling the moment Norman and the other characters started entering the tomb that almost had me gasping for breath myself. Which only gives more credit to the author for being able to write such a dark atmosphere. I would highly recommend this book!
March 10, 2022
This is a fairly quick read at just 150 pages.
Norman was never that interested in expeditions half a world away. But it was his wife's dream to find and enter the tomb of Kiya, queen of Akhenaten. Sadly, the cancer took her before she could accomplish this, and it is out of respect for her wishes and grief at her passing that Norman now finds himself in this dangerous desert land, seeking out the man who wouldn't help his wife find the tomb.
Norman and his small team have more luck than his deceased wife in locating the tomb, but is that good luck or bad? Should they really enter this sacred space that is said to be cursed and best left forgotten?
The Eater of Gods is a story that is ripe with grief and heavy with longing for things that could have been, and should never be. At the start it feels more like a thriller than a horror, but that will change when our team finds the tomb as their excitement turns to fear.
There is a bit of gore but not what I would consider overly graphic, still I think it's only fair to warn you.
My thanks to Cemetery Dance for the advance copy.
Norman was never that interested in expeditions half a world away. But it was his wife's dream to find and enter the tomb of Kiya, queen of Akhenaten. Sadly, the cancer took her before she could accomplish this, and it is out of respect for her wishes and grief at her passing that Norman now finds himself in this dangerous desert land, seeking out the man who wouldn't help his wife find the tomb.
Norman and his small team have more luck than his deceased wife in locating the tomb, but is that good luck or bad? Should they really enter this sacred space that is said to be cursed and best left forgotten?
The Eater of Gods is a story that is ripe with grief and heavy with longing for things that could have been, and should never be. At the start it feels more like a thriller than a horror, but that will change when our team finds the tomb as their excitement turns to fear.
There is a bit of gore but not what I would consider overly graphic, still I think it's only fair to warn you.
My thanks to Cemetery Dance for the advance copy.
September 1, 2022
This slender yet potent novel utilizes Egyptian mythology and storied historical past and an isolated Libyan desert setting to brew a terrifying claustrophobic nightmare.
Once upon a time there lived a mighty Egyptian pharaoh named Akhenaten. Akhenaten had many wives as pharaohs are wont to do. There was the famous one, Nefertiti. And then there was the mysterious one, Kiya.
This is her story.
It’s also a story of a desperate quest to find her and of dangers of getting what you want.
An atmospheric, dark, disturbing, literary, and very well written book, this is the one to please all discriminating genre fans. Plan your time: you’re going to want to read this in one sitting. Ideally on a dark and stormy night the way I did. Get your brave pants on. Read if you dare.
Recommended. Thanks Netgalley.
Once upon a time there lived a mighty Egyptian pharaoh named Akhenaten. Akhenaten had many wives as pharaohs are wont to do. There was the famous one, Nefertiti. And then there was the mysterious one, Kiya.
This is her story.
It’s also a story of a desperate quest to find her and of dangers of getting what you want.
An atmospheric, dark, disturbing, literary, and very well written book, this is the one to please all discriminating genre fans. Plan your time: you’re going to want to read this in one sitting. Ideally on a dark and stormy night the way I did. Get your brave pants on. Read if you dare.
Recommended. Thanks Netgalley.
October 30, 2022
An archeological horror novel filled with adventure, chills and thrills. I heard about this upcoming book in a Facebook group and immediately grabbed a review copy when one became available. This book reminded me how much I adore Egypt and archeology and when you mix in supernatural horror what more could you ask for. This is a quick read, I finished it in one sitting, it was that unputdownable. Do yourself a favor and checkout this author, you won’t be disappointed. I am keen to see what else he has written and brings out next. I will read more for sure.
May 15, 2022
In the dying village of Al Tarfuk, long among the war-stained dunes of eastern Libya, Professor Norman Haas learns the location of the tomb that had been his wife’s life pursuit. The final resting place of Kiya, the lost queen of Akhenaten, whose history had been etched from the stone analogues of history for her heresies against the long absent pantheon of Egyptian Gods.
Dan Franklin’s debut supernatural thriller is a tale of grief, of loneliness, and of an ageless, hungry fury that waits with ready tooth and claw beneath the sand.
Review:
I loved everything about this story. I was fascinated with ancient Egypt when I was a child, so the history and the details in this book really struck a chord with me. This read like a thrilling treasure hunt adventure dipped in darkness. The trip to the village is woven with hints of tension, glimpses of danger at every turn but once they discover the tomb, the pace and the adrenaline ramps up as you are taken through an underground maze of terror.
Franklin penned an intricate story with heavy layers of intrigue, history, danger, fear, and loss. I will be re-reading this at some point, just to experience it all over again.
4.5 stars.
Dan Franklin’s debut supernatural thriller is a tale of grief, of loneliness, and of an ageless, hungry fury that waits with ready tooth and claw beneath the sand.
Review:
I loved everything about this story. I was fascinated with ancient Egypt when I was a child, so the history and the details in this book really struck a chord with me. This read like a thrilling treasure hunt adventure dipped in darkness. The trip to the village is woven with hints of tension, glimpses of danger at every turn but once they discover the tomb, the pace and the adrenaline ramps up as you are taken through an underground maze of terror.
Franklin penned an intricate story with heavy layers of intrigue, history, danger, fear, and loss. I will be re-reading this at some point, just to experience it all over again.
4.5 stars.
May 21, 2022
This is a haunted house book set in an ancient tomb with grime stuck to your neck, and grit in your teeth. A labyrinthian, claustrophobic, booby trapped, hysteria filled book of blood, dim lighting and diminishing hope.
Norman is dealing with the loss of his wife by continuing her last quest to the tomb of an Egyptian queen known for her acts of heresy against the gods. Working with people in a war torn Libyan village who have protected the queens final resting spot.
“Sorrow doesn’t matter. There is no more light in this world. I would have killed your wife-or you-to protect this place back then.” -Hazred
I did not know I needed an archeological horror book, I’m glad I read this and my only complaint was that it was too short. I wanted more.
Norman is dealing with the loss of his wife by continuing her last quest to the tomb of an Egyptian queen known for her acts of heresy against the gods. Working with people in a war torn Libyan village who have protected the queens final resting spot.
“Sorrow doesn’t matter. There is no more light in this world. I would have killed your wife-or you-to protect this place back then.” -Hazred
I did not know I needed an archeological horror book, I’m glad I read this and my only complaint was that it was too short. I wanted more.
January 15, 2023
The Eater of Gods by Dan Franklin
I don’t typically read horror archeological stories, but I gotta say, The Eater of Gods is fantastic. The first part of the book, where we meet the key players of the story, is set at a good pace. It is not overdone or underdone, it is just right. When it picks up speed about a third through, it doesn’t let up until the bitter end. It is definitely an intense story.
Norman Haas has promised his dying wife that he would continue her voyage in finding the tomb of the Egyptian Princess, Kiya. Through the University his wife worked with, Norman and three other researchers head to Libya when they think they figured out where Princess Kiya rests. When they arrive at the tomb, they are immediately drawn into hours of terror and delirious thoughts. Sights and sounds are playing tricks on their minds. They don’t know what to do when everything seems the same but it doesn’t feel right. In the end, none of it matters.
This book is classified as a supernatural thriller, but it does have some horror elements to it. There are some gory scenes as well as some shocking psychological scenes. Once the group was trapped in the tomb, I could not put this one down. This is a story filled with pain and suffering and physical tormenting. In the end, I am ending this story realizing I will never ever be interested in going on a tour of an old tomb, I can promise that.
I don’t typically read horror archeological stories, but I gotta say, The Eater of Gods is fantastic. The first part of the book, where we meet the key players of the story, is set at a good pace. It is not overdone or underdone, it is just right. When it picks up speed about a third through, it doesn’t let up until the bitter end. It is definitely an intense story.
Norman Haas has promised his dying wife that he would continue her voyage in finding the tomb of the Egyptian Princess, Kiya. Through the University his wife worked with, Norman and three other researchers head to Libya when they think they figured out where Princess Kiya rests. When they arrive at the tomb, they are immediately drawn into hours of terror and delirious thoughts. Sights and sounds are playing tricks on their minds. They don’t know what to do when everything seems the same but it doesn’t feel right. In the end, none of it matters.
This book is classified as a supernatural thriller, but it does have some horror elements to it. There are some gory scenes as well as some shocking psychological scenes. Once the group was trapped in the tomb, I could not put this one down. This is a story filled with pain and suffering and physical tormenting. In the end, I am ending this story realizing I will never ever be interested in going on a tour of an old tomb, I can promise that.
October 8, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley, Dan Franklin, & Cemetery Dance Publications for a copy.
What an adventure this book was! I was obsessed with Egypt growing up, and this story was everything I’d hoped it’d be!
For fans of Indiana Jones, The Mummy, or any adventure book/movie buff, you have to read this one!
I was totally absorbed and felt panicked and claustrophobic along with the characters. There truly isn’t a dull moment in this tale, and it will captivate readers.
Can we have more Egyptian/archeology horror please?!
The only downside to this book was when I finished reading it. 😭
What an adventure this book was! I was obsessed with Egypt growing up, and this story was everything I’d hoped it’d be!
For fans of Indiana Jones, The Mummy, or any adventure book/movie buff, you have to read this one!
I was totally absorbed and felt panicked and claustrophobic along with the characters. There truly isn’t a dull moment in this tale, and it will captivate readers.
Can we have more Egyptian/archeology horror please?!
The only downside to this book was when I finished reading it. 😭
March 30, 2023
There’s so much packed in these 150 pages. The action and intrigue of Indiana Jones, the dread and menace of The Tommyknockers, all swirled together with and grounded by the realistic terror of grief for lost loved ones and the lengths we’ll go to keep promises. Watch out for those last few chapters, they’re merciless.
I’ll be watching for more from Dan Franklin.
I’ll be watching for more from Dan Franklin.
June 12, 2023
This book was everything I wanted it to be. A fast paced, claustrophobic tomb horror. For a smaller book, this story packs quite the emotional punch as well. I wanted the feeling of Indians Jones or The Mummy but something that leaned heavier on the horror aspect of it, and this book executed that wonderfully. I can’t wait to read more of Dan’s work!
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July 7, 2023DNF @ 17%. Writing style just wasn't for me. Will absolutely work for some other readers.
February 15, 2023
Eater of Gods by Dan Franklin releases March 1st here in the US
Claustrophobic, believable characters, descriptive eloquent writing, a fascinating premise and dark gritty threatening setting (as well as being short enough at 150 pages to literally inhale in one sitting)
Horror Reader's Ratings/What to expect:
Overall ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Gore ⭐⭐⭐
Atmosphere ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Character Development ⭐⭐⭐⭐💫
Scary ⭐⭐⭐💫
Prose ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
(out of 5 stars)
I love documentaries about Egyptology and the preservation of temples and tombs. When I say "love" I mean I've watched them all, repeatedly. As a horror fan tho my mind sometimes wanders off into the realm of "what if" with those shows. After reading the first 50 pages of this book I knew I'd love it. The amount of character development that the author got into such a short book is impressive. I was actually feeling the characters own anxiety, claustrophobia and anticipation as I read. Frankly I'm having a hard time believing that 'Eater of Gods' by Dan Franklin is a debut. If this is the beginning then I'm here for everything else this author writes. Go immediately to Cemetery Dance Publications website and preorder a copy. I'm not kidding. Outstanding work Dan. This might be the best debut I've ever read.
Claustrophobic, believable characters, descriptive eloquent writing, a fascinating premise and dark gritty threatening setting (as well as being short enough at 150 pages to literally inhale in one sitting)
Horror Reader's Ratings/What to expect:
Overall ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Gore ⭐⭐⭐
Atmosphere ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Character Development ⭐⭐⭐⭐💫
Scary ⭐⭐⭐💫
Prose ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
(out of 5 stars)
I love documentaries about Egyptology and the preservation of temples and tombs. When I say "love" I mean I've watched them all, repeatedly. As a horror fan tho my mind sometimes wanders off into the realm of "what if" with those shows. After reading the first 50 pages of this book I knew I'd love it. The amount of character development that the author got into such a short book is impressive. I was actually feeling the characters own anxiety, claustrophobia and anticipation as I read. Frankly I'm having a hard time believing that 'Eater of Gods' by Dan Franklin is a debut. If this is the beginning then I'm here for everything else this author writes. Go immediately to Cemetery Dance Publications website and preorder a copy. I'm not kidding. Outstanding work Dan. This might be the best debut I've ever read.
September 11, 2022
Qué sorpresa tan agradable. Nunca había leído a este autor y no pensé que fuera a disfrutar tanto este libro, a pesar de que me enganchó muchísimo solo con leer la sinopsis.
Es muy perturbador, crea una atmósfera increíble que me recordó mucho a King y a Lovecraft.
Es muy corto, se puede leer en una sentada, pero no por eso falta tensión.
Sí debo admitir que el final fue un poco apresurado y habría amado que profundizara más en algunas escenas, con más detalles.
- - - - - - - - - -
What a pleasant surprise. I had never read this author before and I didn't think I would enjoy this book so much, even though I was very hooked just by reading the synopsis.
It's very disturbing, it creates an incredible atmosphere that reminded me a lot of King and Lovecraft.
It's very short, you can read it in one sitting, but that doesn't mean it lacks tension.
I do have to admit that the ending was a bit rushed and I would have loved for it to go deeper into some scenes, with more detail.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for an advance review copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Es muy perturbador, crea una atmósfera increíble que me recordó mucho a King y a Lovecraft.
Es muy corto, se puede leer en una sentada, pero no por eso falta tensión.
Sí debo admitir que el final fue un poco apresurado y habría amado que profundizara más en algunas escenas, con más detalles.
- - - - - - - - - -
What a pleasant surprise. I had never read this author before and I didn't think I would enjoy this book so much, even though I was very hooked just by reading the synopsis.
It's very disturbing, it creates an incredible atmosphere that reminded me a lot of King and Lovecraft.
It's very short, you can read it in one sitting, but that doesn't mean it lacks tension.
I do have to admit that the ending was a bit rushed and I would have loved for it to go deeper into some scenes, with more detail.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for an advance review copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
April 9, 2023
Not at all what I expected, but enjoyable.
I genuinely LIKED the characters and wish the book was about 300 pages longer so I could have fallen in love with them.
The story was a cluster of commonish troupes but uniquely spun to create a unique tale.
Well done!
I genuinely LIKED the characters and wish the book was about 300 pages longer so I could have fallen in love with them.
The story was a cluster of commonish troupes but uniquely spun to create a unique tale.
Well done!
October 27, 2022
I received this book from NetGalley and, having never read Dan Franklin before, I was pleasantly surprised. Although there’s so much sadness in this book, it’s full of action and supernatural adventure. In a little package, you get an amazingly written and enthralling combination of archaeology, academic life, mythology, journeys both internal (in the mind and the soul) and external (in Lybia), lots of creepy and claustrophobic atmosphere, an Indiana Jones-style exploration of a lost tomb, and chilling, very chilling supernatural developments. It’s not easy to share my reading experience without giving anything away, but I can’t help being absolutely gushing over this book: there may not be as many gory scenes as I expected, but the disturbing imagery and the stellar storytelling make up for this lack, while the pages practically ooze tension. The gritty realism was a nice addition, avoiding any Tomb Raider twists or well-worn tropes of the mummy, focusing instead on building an understanding with the reader, by means of well-placed information tidbits on the Ancient Egyptians and their funerary practices, plus an emphasis on how the supernatural impacts human relationships. Highly, very highly recommended.
May 25, 2023
Well hello anxiety, hello fear. I have been hoping to find a story that falls into the Egyptian or Mayan (whatever), gods, pyramid, tomb, horror arena and here it is. It is not a long story so I don't want to give away details, but It is about a man that follows his wife's quest (after she has passed away) to find the tomb of Queen Kiya. He has a small group with him. They don't do so good. There is a particularly satisfying event that happens to Cal, the sleazy guy in the group, that sets the tone for the dread to come. This story gives a feeling of excitement, then oppressive horror and deep sorrow. I myself would have been a puddle of human devastation waiting by the entrance to be rescued, or die there waiting, so these characters going deeper in to find another way out was so creepy. With more fleshing out this could easily be made into a longer book, then a movie! I loved this.
October 25, 2022
Okay... I just started a little under 2 hours ago and finished. Holy cow! I remember seeing documentaries as a young girl about exploring the tombs in the Egyptian pyramids and how it terrified me. The dark, the tight spaces, the thought of never escaping. I dove right into this book and haven't been able to put it down (not that I want to). It keeps you wanting more with each turn of the page. I am one of those who plays the scenes in my head as I read and it really kept me on edge. I hope one day this gets made into a movie! Great job, Mr Franklin! I look forward to more of your writing in the future! You knocked this one out of the ball park!
5/5 stars from me.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
5/5 stars from me.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
February 18, 2023
This was one of those stories that I find fascinating to read. I love everything about archeology, the pharaohs, and curses. When the team arrived they were so eager to discover new things that they did not pay attention to signs around them. When each member is picked off, one by one, things only get worse. Kiya, it turns out, is not some revered pharaoh. She is so much more and Norman would be the one to find out. Now,if only, he could live long enough to tell the tale. Because the writing was so well done, I finished this book in 2 hours. So easy to read and full of information.
April 9, 2023
Never has a mummy story captured my attention so fully. The visuals in this book clearly lay out a movie in your head, right from the beginning. The author is skilled in painting a scene, even ones as difficult as tackled in here. Curses and traps, foreboding and foreshadowing, this book is written beautifully. This is not your typical mummy story, and that was a beautiful bonus. Thoroughly enjoyed this quick, clever read.
October 16, 2023
"This place is cursed, that place is cursed - you're not happy without a good curse"- The Mummy (1999)
I couldn't help it, this book made me go binge-watch my favorites: Brandon Frasier and Rachel Weiszin The Mummy and The Mummy Returns. What a good book to be able to do that. Yes yes it's horror but c'mon; not-so-intrepid adventurers forming a little band of tomb raiders off to find ancient livery. I mean talk about nostalgia.
The Egyptology department is dead - well in this book it is and that's as much a tragedy as the death of a character who is only mentioned and recalled in memory; Clara. She is the reason for this archeological expedition - to honor her memory. What ensues is classic Curse of the Antiquities story. Marvelous.
In keeping with the overaching themes of faith, religion and unanswered prayers. I so love finding hidden gems and then "preaching the word" of great storytelling to anyone who'll listen. If I were going door to door - this would be one of the gems.
"Excuse me ma'am, do you have time to talk about the good word of The Eater of Gods, and a few more in my briefcase?" - Me in an alternate reality pushing books like a Jehovah's witness on a neighborhood crawl.
Plot/Storyline: taking place in the exotic hellscape of Libya (post Gaddafi, current civil war, migrant slavery, hopelessness) these characters navigate a ravaged area filled with the tail end of what moral degradation in a society looks like at the end. Bullet holes everywhere. Only money talks, but in riddles and full of lies.
Hazred says of the God-Eater: As for some curse… let it come. If this thing is real, I hope she starts with Allah.”
Characters: in the words of Norman: Fucking Cal but also, I pity everyone, let me mourn you all.
Favorite scenes: Too many.
●“Growers and showers,” Charlie said around a second yawn. “Egyptian culture was all about the visible size because it’s an open desert, but not Libya. This place wasn’t always so arid. People out this way built down, not up.” (Charlie on the anticlimatic visage of The House of Kiya-ten.)
● -1 If we're being pedantic about explorers wearing biohazard protective masks to enter an ancient ruin, consistency demands that they wear the whole kit and kaboodle. Not just the masks. Spores enter the skin through every pore - face and elsewhere.
Favorite Quotes/Concepts:
●These things were ancient to ancient people. (Anita on the mystery of Kiya-ten)
●Grave robbing is like prostitution, it’s only illegal if you don’t film it and distribute it. Then it’s academic. Or pornography.” (Charlie on the essence of Excavative Archaeology)
●Ma’am isn’t an answer. A bomb is expanding gas in a sealed box. Gases expand until the pressure rips the box apart. This is a stone box. We are in the bomb. And get your hand off your gun when I’m talking to you or I’ll take it from you and have you sit in the corner. Do you understand?” (Anita on being a sensible badass.)
StoryGraph Challenge: 1800 Books by 2025
Challenge Prompt: 150 Horror Books by 2025
I couldn't help it, this book made me go binge-watch my favorites: Brandon Frasier and Rachel Weiszin The Mummy and The Mummy Returns. What a good book to be able to do that. Yes yes it's horror but c'mon; not-so-intrepid adventurers forming a little band of tomb raiders off to find ancient livery. I mean talk about nostalgia.
The Egyptology department is dead - well in this book it is and that's as much a tragedy as the death of a character who is only mentioned and recalled in memory; Clara. She is the reason for this archeological expedition - to honor her memory. What ensues is classic Curse of the Antiquities story. Marvelous.
In keeping with the overaching themes of faith, religion and unanswered prayers. I so love finding hidden gems and then "preaching the word" of great storytelling to anyone who'll listen. If I were going door to door - this would be one of the gems.
"Excuse me ma'am, do you have time to talk about the good word of The Eater of Gods, and a few more in my briefcase?" - Me in an alternate reality pushing books like a Jehovah's witness on a neighborhood crawl.
Plot/Storyline: taking place in the exotic hellscape of Libya (post Gaddafi, current civil war, migrant slavery, hopelessness) these characters navigate a ravaged area filled with the tail end of what moral degradation in a society looks like at the end. Bullet holes everywhere. Only money talks, but in riddles and full of lies.
Hazred says of the God-Eater: As for some curse… let it come. If this thing is real, I hope she starts with Allah.”
Characters: in the words of Norman: Fucking Cal but also, I pity everyone, let me mourn you all.
Favorite scenes: Too many.
●“Growers and showers,” Charlie said around a second yawn. “Egyptian culture was all about the visible size because it’s an open desert, but not Libya. This place wasn’t always so arid. People out this way built down, not up.” (Charlie on the anticlimatic visage of The House of Kiya-ten.)
● -1 If we're being pedantic about explorers wearing biohazard protective masks to enter an ancient ruin, consistency demands that they wear the whole kit and kaboodle. Not just the masks. Spores enter the skin through every pore - face and elsewhere.
Favorite Quotes/Concepts:
●These things were ancient to ancient people. (Anita on the mystery of Kiya-ten)
●Grave robbing is like prostitution, it’s only illegal if you don’t film it and distribute it. Then it’s academic. Or pornography.” (Charlie on the essence of Excavative Archaeology)
●Ma’am isn’t an answer. A bomb is expanding gas in a sealed box. Gases expand until the pressure rips the box apart. This is a stone box. We are in the bomb. And get your hand off your gun when I’m talking to you or I’ll take it from you and have you sit in the corner. Do you understand?” (Anita on being a sensible badass.)
StoryGraph Challenge: 1800 Books by 2025
Challenge Prompt: 150 Horror Books by 2025
September 17, 2023
“This was it. This was why he had come, why Clara had come, the answer to the sprawling mystery of Kiya and the last major piece to a fractured dynasty whose history had been hidden by intentional obfuscation.
And the door was open.
He let out a groan.”
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Blurb: Nothing really dies if it’s remembered, his wife told him. In the dying village of Al Tarfuk, lost among the war-stained dunes of eastern Libya, professor Norman Haas learns the location of the tomb that had been his wife’s life pursuit. The final resting place of Kiya, the lost queen of Akhenaten, whose history had been etched from the stone analogues of history for her heresies against the long absent pantheon of Egyptian gods.
He never expected to discover that the tomb was the final resting place to more than the dead. And as his team of researchers find themselves trapped inside the ancient tomb, Norman realizes all too soon that his wife was right— nothing really dies if it’s remembered…but some things are best left forgotten.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
I really liked this book! It’s a short horror novel with deep undertones of grief and the process of dealing with it. I personally love all kinds of mythology and retellings, and I loved how this incorporated Egyptian mythology in a unique way. This kept me on the edge of my seat through the entire book, and I read through it in one sitting. The focus really seemed to be mostly on Norman and why he is on this journey, but given the length of the book, it didn’t bother me that I didn’t have as much of a backstory on the other characters. I was still invested in their situation and felt their fear (and grief) in their own unique ways. This was a brilliant mix of two emotions that are often connected in a very seamless way.
If you like mythology, haunted house vibes, and appreciate a story with a deeper underlying message, go read this! It’s perfect for this time of year!
And the door was open.
He let out a groan.”
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Blurb: Nothing really dies if it’s remembered, his wife told him. In the dying village of Al Tarfuk, lost among the war-stained dunes of eastern Libya, professor Norman Haas learns the location of the tomb that had been his wife’s life pursuit. The final resting place of Kiya, the lost queen of Akhenaten, whose history had been etched from the stone analogues of history for her heresies against the long absent pantheon of Egyptian gods.
He never expected to discover that the tomb was the final resting place to more than the dead. And as his team of researchers find themselves trapped inside the ancient tomb, Norman realizes all too soon that his wife was right— nothing really dies if it’s remembered…but some things are best left forgotten.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
I really liked this book! It’s a short horror novel with deep undertones of grief and the process of dealing with it. I personally love all kinds of mythology and retellings, and I loved how this incorporated Egyptian mythology in a unique way. This kept me on the edge of my seat through the entire book, and I read through it in one sitting. The focus really seemed to be mostly on Norman and why he is on this journey, but given the length of the book, it didn’t bother me that I didn’t have as much of a backstory on the other characters. I was still invested in their situation and felt their fear (and grief) in their own unique ways. This was a brilliant mix of two emotions that are often connected in a very seamless way.
If you like mythology, haunted house vibes, and appreciate a story with a deeper underlying message, go read this! It’s perfect for this time of year!
April 25, 2023
Book review
Author Dan Franklin
Book... The Eater of God's
5☆☆☆☆☆
Wow... fantastic read. I loved the Egyptian mythology. As Norman honors his late wife's wish, he is trapped underground with fellow colleagues and The eater of God's. This book is filled with mystery, suspense and violent deaths. Kiya is not who you think she is. I loved the writing style.
Author Dan Franklin
Book... The Eater of God's
5☆☆☆☆☆
Wow... fantastic read. I loved the Egyptian mythology. As Norman honors his late wife's wish, he is trapped underground with fellow colleagues and The eater of God's. This book is filled with mystery, suspense and violent deaths. Kiya is not who you think she is. I loved the writing style.
April 24, 2023
Dan Franklin.... you knocked this book out of the park. I cannot believe you crammed so much story and emotion into a 137 page book. I'm horrified, sad, and really satisfied with this entire tale of love, loss, gods, demi gods, lore, etc.
Just fantastic.
Just fantastic.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 202 reviews