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The Gods of Egypt #1
Priestess of the Nile
Egypt, 1500 BC
Drawn to his abandoned temple on the banks of the Nile by an enchanting song, Sobek the Crocodile God is even more captivated by the sight of the singer herself. Appearing to her as a man, he learns she is Merys, a descendant of his last priestess. Though filled with lust, Sobek believes Merys deserves to be more than just his mistress. But the rules that govern the Egyptian pantheon forbid anything beyond a physical joining of a Great One and a human.
Merys is attracted to the handsome stranger, who arouses passions in her that no man ever has. But with no dowry and no hope of ever leaving her village, she dares not dream of the future—or love.
Sobek takes every opportunity to visit Merys, taxing his resolve to leave her pure. When he saves her life, their mutual desire must be sated. But can a love between a human and an immortal survive the ultimate test of the gods?
21,000 words
63 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 23, 2012
About the author
Veronica Scott
91 books244 followersUSA Today Best Selling Science Fiction & Paranormal Romance author.
Veronica Scott grew up in a house with a library as its heart. Dad loved science fiction, Mom loved ancient history and Veronica thought there needed to be more romance in everything. When she ran out of books to read, she started writing her own stories.
MISC FACTS ABOUT VERONICA
Seven time winner ~ SFR Galaxy Award
Proud recipient ~ NASA Exceptional Service Medal but must hasten to add the honor was not for her romantic fiction!
Lean Six Sigma Black Belt – I’ll improve your process (mwahahahaa)!
Elvis Presley’s best friend once serenaded Veronica on a local TV telethon…now that could be a novel…
Veronica Scott grew up in a house with a library as its heart. Dad loved science fiction, Mom loved ancient history and Veronica thought there needed to be more romance in everything. When she ran out of books to read, she started writing her own stories.
MISC FACTS ABOUT VERONICA
Seven time winner ~ SFR Galaxy Award
Proud recipient ~ NASA Exceptional Service Medal but must hasten to add the honor was not for her romantic fiction!
Lean Six Sigma Black Belt – I’ll improve your process (mwahahahaa)!
Elvis Presley’s best friend once serenaded Veronica on a local TV telethon…now that could be a novel…
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
May 24, 2017
I thought this sounded up my alley but I'm tired of romance books describing the male love interest's anatomy immediately twitching upon meeting the female protagonist like it's some kind of sex compass. No. Just stop right there.
March 14, 2025
My Review:
This was a very short read and I really liked the time era that this book takes place in, it was really fascinating. I love the Egyptian time eras here. But this book wasn't that great lol I love the cover though and these are short books and I know that this was her first book so I am hoping that her other books are better than this one actually was. I loved the mythology and the forbidden relationship that is portrayed. The ending was different lol It still is a HEA but it just wasn't the most polished story. It definitely need some work for sure. But it was a interesting story and I loved the dynamic of Egyptian demi gods.
This was a very short read and I really liked the time era that this book takes place in, it was really fascinating. I love the Egyptian time eras here. But this book wasn't that great lol I love the cover though and these are short books and I know that this was her first book so I am hoping that her other books are better than this one actually was. I loved the mythology and the forbidden relationship that is portrayed. The ending was different lol It still is a HEA but it just wasn't the most polished story. It definitely need some work for sure. But it was a interesting story and I loved the dynamic of Egyptian demi gods.
January 28, 2012
This one I received through netgalley was quite different from anything else I've read. I had quite a few issues, but there was something about it that I really liked, that saved it somewhat.
What I wasn't so keen on:
- The writing wasn't particularly good. I wanted to be able to feel that this story was set by the Nile, with the sights, sounds and smells described. I wanted to feel I was there. There really was none of that, and I felt it would have made a good use of word count to spend some time on really squeezing every ounce of description out of a great setting.
- The steamy bits were a bit terse and rather formulaic. Also, the whole heroine-losing-her-virginity bit was not convincing. I personally reckon all authors should be required to read this piece on Smart Bitches. It says what I mean. Honestly, the poor girl's apparently feeling a tad sore, and he goes at her at least twice after popping the cherry? Can't he just give her a rest?!! OK. I feel better for that rant now..
What I like:
- This is a very unique setting, with a unique plot. I guess some might classify it as paranormal, but it's not, it's definitely mythological and I really, really enjoyed that. I loved that this author chose to write a story in a setting which is so very different. It works incredibly well.
- The hero is a god. Now normally, this means paranormal, but no the author has taken the myths of Egypt and created a convincing hero from one of them. I loved this.
- The plot is resolved well. OK. It was kinda obvious, but I like how it was resolved as much as the resolution itself. (Make sense?)
Basically, the writing was not as flowing or lucid as the story deserved. It's the River Nile, in Ancient Egypt, for crying out loud! The writing should be ethereal, other-worldly, descriptive. I wanted to smell the food and hear the sounds of boats working on the Nile, carrying the exotic and expensive and mundane up and down the river. I didn't.
So, 2 stars. It was OK. Great story though, and I LOVED the setting.
What I wasn't so keen on:
- The writing wasn't particularly good. I wanted to be able to feel that this story was set by the Nile, with the sights, sounds and smells described. I wanted to feel I was there. There really was none of that, and I felt it would have made a good use of word count to spend some time on really squeezing every ounce of description out of a great setting.
- The steamy bits were a bit terse and rather formulaic. Also, the whole heroine-losing-her-virginity bit was not convincing. I personally reckon all authors should be required to read this piece on Smart Bitches. It says what I mean. Honestly, the poor girl's apparently feeling a tad sore, and he goes at her at least twice after popping the cherry? Can't he just give her a rest?!! OK. I feel better for that rant now..
What I like:
- This is a very unique setting, with a unique plot. I guess some might classify it as paranormal, but it's not, it's definitely mythological and I really, really enjoyed that. I loved that this author chose to write a story in a setting which is so very different. It works incredibly well.
- The hero is a god. Now normally, this means paranormal, but no the author has taken the myths of Egypt and created a convincing hero from one of them. I loved this.
- The plot is resolved well. OK. It was kinda obvious, but I like how it was resolved as much as the resolution itself. (Make sense?)
Basically, the writing was not as flowing or lucid as the story deserved. It's the River Nile, in Ancient Egypt, for crying out loud! The writing should be ethereal, other-worldly, descriptive. I wanted to smell the food and hear the sounds of boats working on the Nile, carrying the exotic and expensive and mundane up and down the river. I didn't.
So, 2 stars. It was OK. Great story though, and I LOVED the setting.
August 7, 2026
2.5 stars
Merys was an okay heroine and I felt badly for her situation at home. Sobek was interesting and his other form sounded terrifying.
I enjoyed the setting, but would've like the story to have more details about the area and what happened during their time apart.
The event leading up to the end was sad, but it got resolved and ended okay...even though it was k8nd of predictable.
I received a complimentary copy of this book to review. I was asked to give my honest opinion of the book - which I have done.
Content:
Merys was an okay heroine and I felt badly for her situation at home. Sobek was interesting and his other form sounded terrifying.
I enjoyed the setting, but would've like the story to have more details about the area and what happened during their time apart.
The event leading up to the end was sad, but it got resolved and ended okay...even though it was k8nd of predictable.
I received a complimentary copy of this book to review. I was asked to give my honest opinion of the book - which I have done.
Content:
January 13, 2012
"Priestess of the Nile" is a mature romance novella set in Egypt during the 1500s BC. It revolves around the brief romance between the Crocodile god Bek (or Sobek) and the mortal priestess Merys.
I never would've guessed that this was an erotica title based on the first chapter, as the story opens with an alluring, placid interaction between the two lead characters, with remarkable potential for the story to come. The mythology appears sound, the personalities of the characters sharp and defined for the commencement. I especially like Merys's personality considering her dedication to her sister and in light of her role as a priestess. The budding attractions and one particularly harrowing event where Bek saves Merys' life is well-noted, but I think the sensuous scene came in a bit awkward, perhaps even being oversexed for the tone the story took prior.
From that point on, the story read rough for me because it was rushed for events. I found that it was trying too hard to sell the story for what it entailed. True, this is a novella, and it comes in at about 21,000 words, but I think the extra development would've made Bek and Merys's relationship have that much more hold, and wouldn't seem like they fell on the side of "insta-love connection". I suppose that's a minor quibble since there are a lot of instant connections in some stories of equivalent length and structure, but when arriving towards the novella's last portion, where the connection should've been more sound for the events coming across, it didn't add up.
The tension in the last two chapters should've had more impact for what they lent, but didn't because I felt they were rushed and told more than shown. I thought it particularly telling in one of the lines where Bek thinks "Only one thing in my life might affect me in this fashion—a threat to Merys." And while the following discovery was jarring in ideal, it passed by too quickly and with such a brief emotional resonance that I couldn't really have the connection to it that it would've otherwise meant. Same with the very last scene in the final chapter - I just couldn't connect with it despite the intention, and its uneven pacing made it seem thrown together for the resolution.
I'll give it the benefit of the doubt - it will likely be a story that those who like brief novellas with a bit of action, romance, and historical placements would like, but I think with a bit more development and careful pacing, this could've come across as a better read.
Overall score: 2/5
Note: I received this story as an ARC from NetGalley from the publisher Carina Press.
I never would've guessed that this was an erotica title based on the first chapter, as the story opens with an alluring, placid interaction between the two lead characters, with remarkable potential for the story to come. The mythology appears sound, the personalities of the characters sharp and defined for the commencement. I especially like Merys's personality considering her dedication to her sister and in light of her role as a priestess. The budding attractions and one particularly harrowing event where Bek saves Merys' life is well-noted, but I think the sensuous scene came in a bit awkward, perhaps even being oversexed for the tone the story took prior.
From that point on, the story read rough for me because it was rushed for events. I found that it was trying too hard to sell the story for what it entailed. True, this is a novella, and it comes in at about 21,000 words, but I think the extra development would've made Bek and Merys's relationship have that much more hold, and wouldn't seem like they fell on the side of "insta-love connection". I suppose that's a minor quibble since there are a lot of instant connections in some stories of equivalent length and structure, but when arriving towards the novella's last portion, where the connection should've been more sound for the events coming across, it didn't add up.
The tension in the last two chapters should've had more impact for what they lent, but didn't because I felt they were rushed and told more than shown. I thought it particularly telling in one of the lines where Bek thinks "Only one thing in my life might affect me in this fashion—a threat to Merys." And while the following discovery was jarring in ideal, it passed by too quickly and with such a brief emotional resonance that I couldn't really have the connection to it that it would've otherwise meant. Same with the very last scene in the final chapter - I just couldn't connect with it despite the intention, and its uneven pacing made it seem thrown together for the resolution.
I'll give it the benefit of the doubt - it will likely be a story that those who like brief novellas with a bit of action, romance, and historical placements would like, but I think with a bit more development and careful pacing, this could've come across as a better read.
Overall score: 2/5
Note: I received this story as an ARC from NetGalley from the publisher Carina Press.
February 3, 2012
You can also read this review at Reflections on Reading Romance
This is a very short novella (about 21,000 words) set in Ancient Egypt. While it’s a lovely story that I very much enjoyed, the romance fell a bit flat for me, probably because the length of the novella prohibited much character development. That said, I absolutely loved the Egyptian setting and was drawn in almost at once by the detail.
Merys is the great-granddaughter of a priestess of the Crocodile god, Sobek, and is fishing on the shore of the Nile near the god’s abandoned temple when a handsome stranger approaches. He introduces himself as Bek, but he’s actually the Crocodile god Sobek in the flesh. Sobek is fascinated by the charmingly innocent Merys, but he knows that the gods are not allowed relationships with mortal women. Despite this, he finds himself falling for the young woman and begins searching for a way for the two to be together.
There’s much to like about this novella, particularly its setting. Ms. Scott does an amazing job of immersing the reader in the culture and surroundings of Ancient Egypt without bogging you down in excessive details. The political organization of Egypt plays an important role in how the story unfolds in ways that I didn’t expect but very much enjoyed. I’m not at all conversant with Egyptian history, but the novella comes across as very well researched, and I like benefiting from that research in such a pleasant manner.
Because the novella is so short, there’s little time to develop the characters of Merys and Sobek adequately, which is why the romance suffers a bit, I think. Merys is portrayed as an innocent Cinderella type, forced to work as a servant for her evil stepmother, but we don’t learn much about her beyond that. Sobek begins as an arrogant god but soon becomes all too human in his dealings with Merys, which is forbidden for the gods of this pantheon. I feel like I would have enjoyed the romance between Sobek and Merys a bit more if we could have spent more time with the two of them together. I also would have liked to see Sobek’s personality changes develop slowly, but, again, the length of the text prohibits this.
Frankly, this was a quick read with a refreshing setting, and I would like to see more of Ms. Scott’s work because of how well she incorporated the setting and her research. I feel that this novella was very successful as a story that draws a reader in, but the romance needed a little bit more development.
I received this book for review from Carina Press through NetGalley.
This is a very short novella (about 21,000 words) set in Ancient Egypt. While it’s a lovely story that I very much enjoyed, the romance fell a bit flat for me, probably because the length of the novella prohibited much character development. That said, I absolutely loved the Egyptian setting and was drawn in almost at once by the detail.
Merys is the great-granddaughter of a priestess of the Crocodile god, Sobek, and is fishing on the shore of the Nile near the god’s abandoned temple when a handsome stranger approaches. He introduces himself as Bek, but he’s actually the Crocodile god Sobek in the flesh. Sobek is fascinated by the charmingly innocent Merys, but he knows that the gods are not allowed relationships with mortal women. Despite this, he finds himself falling for the young woman and begins searching for a way for the two to be together.
There’s much to like about this novella, particularly its setting. Ms. Scott does an amazing job of immersing the reader in the culture and surroundings of Ancient Egypt without bogging you down in excessive details. The political organization of Egypt plays an important role in how the story unfolds in ways that I didn’t expect but very much enjoyed. I’m not at all conversant with Egyptian history, but the novella comes across as very well researched, and I like benefiting from that research in such a pleasant manner.
Because the novella is so short, there’s little time to develop the characters of Merys and Sobek adequately, which is why the romance suffers a bit, I think. Merys is portrayed as an innocent Cinderella type, forced to work as a servant for her evil stepmother, but we don’t learn much about her beyond that. Sobek begins as an arrogant god but soon becomes all too human in his dealings with Merys, which is forbidden for the gods of this pantheon. I feel like I would have enjoyed the romance between Sobek and Merys a bit more if we could have spent more time with the two of them together. I also would have liked to see Sobek’s personality changes develop slowly, but, again, the length of the text prohibits this.
Frankly, this was a quick read with a refreshing setting, and I would like to see more of Ms. Scott’s work because of how well she incorporated the setting and her research. I feel that this novella was very successful as a story that draws a reader in, but the romance needed a little bit more development.
I received this book for review from Carina Press through NetGalley.
March 25, 2014
3.5 Stars
Isn't the cover for this beautiful? I adore it. I'm a cover slut. I love me a pretty cover! Now as I understand it this is the author's first book/major work and I thought that it was pretty good for a bit of mid afternoon reading. I suppose it's a paranormal historical romance with her being a mortal and her lover being Sobek the ancient Egyptian crocodile god.
For me I could tell that the author Veronica Scott took her time writing this piece and even though it's less than 70 pages long it was still good. If you know me and my reading habits than you know that I usually tend to stay far, far away from short stories/novellas/novelletes because I like my books to be over 100 pages in length.
I liked the storyline and the romance that developed between the two they didn't get down and dirty by oage 5 so I knew it could ony go up from there (no pun intended). I liked Merys a ot but I wish we could have known more about her life and that the book could have been another 50 pages longer (sorry Veronica) but maybe if I wish it hard enough she'll bring Merys and Sobek back in her future were because I really did enjoy this story and I do appreciate the hard work she put into researching and writing this work and I hope she continues writing and I wish her all the best.
Up until the last 3 pages I was going to give this book a 3 star rating but the ending was my favourite part because it had a HEA and I love romances that end in happily ever afters and I recommend this to those looking for nice light read on a rainy afternoon.
* I recieved a free copy of this book from the pubisher via NetGalley in exchange for my free and honest review.
Isn't the cover for this beautiful? I adore it. I'm a cover slut. I love me a pretty cover! Now as I understand it this is the author's first book/major work and I thought that it was pretty good for a bit of mid afternoon reading. I suppose it's a paranormal historical romance with her being a mortal and her lover being Sobek the ancient Egyptian crocodile god.
For me I could tell that the author Veronica Scott took her time writing this piece and even though it's less than 70 pages long it was still good. If you know me and my reading habits than you know that I usually tend to stay far, far away from short stories/novellas/novelletes because I like my books to be over 100 pages in length.
I liked the storyline and the romance that developed between the two they didn't get down and dirty by oage 5 so I knew it could ony go up from there (no pun intended). I liked Merys a ot but I wish we could have known more about her life and that the book could have been another 50 pages longer (sorry Veronica) but maybe if I wish it hard enough she'll bring Merys and Sobek back in her future were because I really did enjoy this story and I do appreciate the hard work she put into researching and writing this work and I hope she continues writing and I wish her all the best.
Up until the last 3 pages I was going to give this book a 3 star rating but the ending was my favourite part because it had a HEA and I love romances that end in happily ever afters and I recommend this to those looking for nice light read on a rainy afternoon.
* I recieved a free copy of this book from the pubisher via NetGalley in exchange for my free and honest review.
December 8, 2016
After reading and enjoying the third book, Dancer in the Nile, I picked up Priestess of the Nile and the second book as well. This was a shorter novel, just under 100 pages, and stayed more aligned to a romantic tale. Nothing wrong with that, however Scott had crafted such a wonderful romance/adventure/mystery blended genre story with Dancer in the Nile that I felt spoiled.
In Priestess of the Nile, the reader is introduced to a young woman who has no dowry and still lives with her father and disagreeable step-mother. The woman meets "Bek" who is really Sobek, the crocodile god, on the shore of the Nile near a ruined temple, which happens to honor Sobek. The story reads a bit like the fairy tale Cinderella, but in Ancient Egypt, so the plot is rather predictable. It's still an enjoyable read, just not all that original.
As with Dancer in the Nile, Scott's use of Ancient Egypt and inclusion of its mythology suck me right into the story. The characters were engaging, but like the plot, I think Scott relied more on tropes, then she did in her later novel. As such, I'm anxious to read the second book and will be interested to see if it's more like book three where Scott finds her voice and develops her own fresh story narrative.
In Priestess of the Nile, the reader is introduced to a young woman who has no dowry and still lives with her father and disagreeable step-mother. The woman meets "Bek" who is really Sobek, the crocodile god, on the shore of the Nile near a ruined temple, which happens to honor Sobek. The story reads a bit like the fairy tale Cinderella, but in Ancient Egypt, so the plot is rather predictable. It's still an enjoyable read, just not all that original.
As with Dancer in the Nile, Scott's use of Ancient Egypt and inclusion of its mythology suck me right into the story. The characters were engaging, but like the plot, I think Scott relied more on tropes, then she did in her later novel. As such, I'm anxious to read the second book and will be interested to see if it's more like book three where Scott finds her voice and develops her own fresh story narrative.
January 9, 2012
Sobek is walking along the beach of Nile River and sees one of his abandon temples. He heard a woman singing and followed the voice which led to Merys. Merys was startle by Bek at first, but later found herself wanting to know Sobek. Merys told him about her life as her family servant and how her family wouldnt give her any dowry.
Every chance Sobek had he would still away to see Merys. However, seeing a mortal a woman is against the law, he still takes his chances to be with Merys. Merys is also risks being caught, by her family. He tries to stay away from her but only find hisself longing to be with her.
I found this book to be a nice late night read. This book is nicely written and I like the storyline that the Veronica Scott have plotted.I think she did very well describing her characters. Though, I wish the story could have been a lit longer,because it wouldve been better. If you looking for a quick read with contains adult content, mythology, Egyptian culture,and paranormal romance its a nice story.
Every chance Sobek had he would still away to see Merys. However, seeing a mortal a woman is against the law, he still takes his chances to be with Merys. Merys is also risks being caught, by her family. He tries to stay away from her but only find hisself longing to be with her.
I found this book to be a nice late night read. This book is nicely written and I like the storyline that the Veronica Scott have plotted.I think she did very well describing her characters. Though, I wish the story could have been a lit longer,because it wouldve been better. If you looking for a quick read with contains adult content, mythology, Egyptian culture,and paranormal romance its a nice story.
January 24, 2012
I enjoyed this take on Egyptian mythology. Merys and Sobek (the Crocodile God) were sympathetic characters. I welled up during the Dark Moment, and I loved the scene where Sobek leads an army of crocodiles down the Nile. As is often the case with novellas, I do wish a little more time had been spent building the romance.
February 27, 2012
I like that Carina Press is publishing romances set in different historical time periods. I wish they were a bit longer. I'm not a novella fan, generally, though I keep reading these because I want the diversity in my historicals.
Those complaints said, this book was enjoyable. The romance was sweet, though I wish the HEA had been accomplished differently.
Those complaints said, this book was enjoyable. The romance was sweet, though I wish the HEA had been accomplished differently.
December 31, 2011
Diverting, though undemanding read. I enjoyed the ancient Egyptian setting, found the protagonists likable, and found the ending satisfying.
Full review soon at www.mangamaniaccafe.com
Full review soon at www.mangamaniaccafe.com
January 6, 2017
Out of the 4 books of the series that i have read, this one left the deepest impressions on my heart!! I LOVE IT!! :)
August 16, 2022
3.5 Stars
This is a mature historical romance with Egyptian mythology.
I didn't read the description too carefully when I downloaded and didn't realise how small the book was. I would have preferred that the the characters and their settings were delved into with a little more detail. I think the pace was a little rushed.
Both MMC and FMC were likable and relatable.
It was an easy one afternoon read.
This is a mature historical romance with Egyptian mythology.
I didn't read the description too carefully when I downloaded and didn't realise how small the book was. I would have preferred that the the characters and their settings were delved into with a little more detail. I think the pace was a little rushed.
Both MMC and FMC were likable and relatable.
It was an easy one afternoon read.
June 9, 2017
A good story
This is a good if short romance novel set in ancient Egypt. It has a vaguely Cinderella feel but it's so much more. :)
This is a good if short romance novel set in ancient Egypt. It has a vaguely Cinderella feel but it's so much more. :)
October 27, 2017
2,5
yes, I knew it was a romance story but I lacked smth profound and more complex
yes, I knew it was a romance story but I lacked smth profound and more complex
July 15, 2018
Kind of an abrupt ending but I enjoyed the accuracy of the mythology involved
April 4, 2019
Short but sweet
Nothing in the novella to offend but it is a good book for younger readers to introduce them to the genre
Nothing in the novella to offend but it is a good book for younger readers to introduce them to the genre
April 29, 2019
AWESOME SERIES OF BOOKS!!!
I thought this was a wonderful book, so artfully written. It is my 8th time reading it this year, and it keeps getting better every time!!
I thought this was a wonderful book, so artfully written. It is my 8th time reading it this year, and it keeps getting better every time!!
September 1, 2019
The love between Merys and Bek is beautiful. The cruelty of her family is disgusting. The horror of her death is unimaginable.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 3, 2021
Charming
This was a charming and lovely romance set on the banks of the Nile river. I enjoyed reading this book.
This was a charming and lovely romance set on the banks of the Nile river. I enjoyed reading this book.
December 4, 2021
Even crocodile became a little sexy!
June 14, 2017
Short but a wonderful read. Wish could have gone on form
Short but a wonderful read. Wish it could have gone on for many more hours of enjoyment. Will definitely read more of Veronica Scott.
Short but a wonderful read. Wish it could have gone on for many more hours of enjoyment. Will definitely read more of Veronica Scott.
January 12, 2012
This review is also found on Always a Booklover .
Priestess of the Nile was something rather different for me. I don’t know much about Egyptian mythology, make that anything about it! But the characters involved in the book were little and those gods and goddesses that were involved were also rather well-explained, so I didn’t have to crack my head wondering who they were.
So this is just a short story (only about 21,000 words) but it was a very fun read. Simple, yet not boring. All I can say is a sweet romance with a sweet ending.
Because this is a short story, there isn’t much space for character development. As a result, we barely got to see anything of Sobek, the crocodile god and Merys’ lover. We saw more of Merys and what I saw I liked. She’s a very kind-hearted girl and though she’s so badly treated by her family, she doesn’t give up and become horrible, but she still maintains her sweet nature. I love the way she cares for her younger, lame, half sister. Though she has no reason to love her, she still does and that I think is really admirable. Another thing that I liked about her was her dedication to be the priestess of the crocodile god. Though no one else really paid attention to him anymore and his temple had fallen into ruins, she did not neglect her duty passed down from generation to generation. That sense of loyalty even when everyone else doesn’t care anymore is something I really like about her. I know, I know, it may not seem like much, but liking the heroine is the first step in loving the book. It’s of her that we see most of the world through anyway.
As for Sobek, I don’t much about him, but from what I see, he’s a really good guy and he’s so in love with Merys. It was so difficult for him to resist the punishment, but the thought of her just allowed it. To me, that’s just really really sweet. I do like how he tried to control himself and his desires at first, as much as he felt that he could soothe her pain with physical pleasure. It just shows his love for her isn’t based on lust and that’s really important to me!
WARNING, there will be a short SPOILER in the next part. If I cover it up with the spoiler tag, I won’t really be able to write about my complaints properly.
Several complaints I have about the book though. I felt that Merys’ dying was way too abrupt. It’s like one second the character was talking, next second, she was dead. Nothing really wrong with it, but I personally would have liked that scene to be dragged out for maximum emotional impact. It’s like, he loved her so much, but when she died, he didn’t really grieve. It was way too sudden. It didn’t feel sad at all. Sure, I knew that somehow they would end up together since it’s a romance. But I just feel the dying scene has to be impactful. Another thing was that the ending was kind of weird. As in the part where the soldiers came. Why did they come? Maybe to plunder and rob the place. But its just way too coincidental. I dunno, I couldn’t relate to that part. Sure, it was necessary for them to do that so that they could be together. But, well, I just didn’t really like it. And how they finally ended up together? That was just, weird. Ok, fine not really weird, but I wish something else could have happened for them to end up together. Not because of that , but rather I was hoping that their love for each other, that the true love they shared, would somehow make a way and allow them to be together.
That being said, I really did enjoy reading the book. Though it didn’t really spark a lot of emotions in me, I could feel that kind of love between the characters that you know can last a lifetime. It may not have really been said, but it can be seen through their time together. It may have been a really short story, but that doesn’t mean it was lacking in any way. I would recommend this to almost anyone. It’s a really easy read and the two characters are just so suitable for each other. I do wish it was longer though, the story really has potential to go further. I would love to see a conflict between those two characters!
Priestess of the Nile was something rather different for me. I don’t know much about Egyptian mythology, make that anything about it! But the characters involved in the book were little and those gods and goddesses that were involved were also rather well-explained, so I didn’t have to crack my head wondering who they were.
So this is just a short story (only about 21,000 words) but it was a very fun read. Simple, yet not boring. All I can say is a sweet romance with a sweet ending.
Because this is a short story, there isn’t much space for character development. As a result, we barely got to see anything of Sobek, the crocodile god and Merys’ lover. We saw more of Merys and what I saw I liked. She’s a very kind-hearted girl and though she’s so badly treated by her family, she doesn’t give up and become horrible, but she still maintains her sweet nature. I love the way she cares for her younger, lame, half sister. Though she has no reason to love her, she still does and that I think is really admirable. Another thing that I liked about her was her dedication to be the priestess of the crocodile god. Though no one else really paid attention to him anymore and his temple had fallen into ruins, she did not neglect her duty passed down from generation to generation. That sense of loyalty even when everyone else doesn’t care anymore is something I really like about her. I know, I know, it may not seem like much, but liking the heroine is the first step in loving the book. It’s of her that we see most of the world through anyway.
As for Sobek, I don’t much about him, but from what I see, he’s a really good guy and he’s so in love with Merys. It was so difficult for him to resist the punishment, but the thought of her just allowed it. To me, that’s just really really sweet. I do like how he tried to control himself and his desires at first, as much as he felt that he could soothe her pain with physical pleasure. It just shows his love for her isn’t based on lust and that’s really important to me!
WARNING, there will be a short SPOILER in the next part. If I cover it up with the spoiler tag, I won’t really be able to write about my complaints properly.
Several complaints I have about the book though. I felt that Merys’ dying was way too abrupt. It’s like one second the character was talking, next second, she was dead. Nothing really wrong with it, but I personally would have liked that scene to be dragged out for maximum emotional impact. It’s like, he loved her so much, but when she died, he didn’t really grieve. It was way too sudden. It didn’t feel sad at all. Sure, I knew that somehow they would end up together since it’s a romance. But I just feel the dying scene has to be impactful. Another thing was that the ending was kind of weird. As in the part where the soldiers came. Why did they come? Maybe to plunder and rob the place. But its just way too coincidental. I dunno, I couldn’t relate to that part. Sure, it was necessary for them to do that so that they could be together. But, well, I just didn’t really like it. And how they finally ended up together? That was just, weird. Ok, fine not really weird, but I wish something else could have happened for them to end up together. Not because of that , but rather I was hoping that their love for each other, that the true love they shared, would somehow make a way and allow them to be together.
That being said, I really did enjoy reading the book. Though it didn’t really spark a lot of emotions in me, I could feel that kind of love between the characters that you know can last a lifetime. It may not have really been said, but it can be seen through their time together. It may have been a really short story, but that doesn’t mean it was lacking in any way. I would recommend this to almost anyone. It’s a really easy read and the two characters are just so suitable for each other. I do wish it was longer though, the story really has potential to go further. I would love to see a conflict between those two characters!
February 8, 2012
I confess that I was intrigued by Priestess of the Nile even before I read its blurb: the beautiful cover and the title were enough to grab my attention. I love anything to do with Ancient Egypt: I love the mythology, the architecture, the hyeroglyphs, so when I saw that this new historical-paranormal-romance title by Carina Press was set in Ancient Egypt I knew I had to read it. What I failed to see was how short Priestess of the Nile was, which accounts for most of my problems with it.
Priestess of the Nile is merely a 63 page-long novella, and naturally what such strict length limitation means is that neither the story nor the characters have enough time to be developed in much detail.
I understood and accepted that there wasn't much time for character development due to the shortness of the novella, but the writing style with its quite short and clipped sentences wasn't to my liking. I found the lines strung together one after the other without much link or transition, and due to this I found the writing fractured:
" "My village is full of busybodies." Perhaps remembering some recent gossip, she pinched the bridge of her nose, closing her eyes. He set the wineskin between them, unsettled by her mood. He was a little resentful, slightly angry. After all, these evenings were for his amusement. Weren't they?"
At times the reader is given a glimpse into the hero's and the heroine's inner musings, with just a few thoughts added to the outside narrative:
"A beautiful soprano voice rose from the beach below the bluff. Bek recognized the words of a familiar old song, given new meaning by the hypnotizing, alluring voice. I must see this songbird. She’s cast some kind of spell over me."
"But what can a mortal offer a Great One, save for easy pleasure? My heart is so confused. He wants me, I ache for him, but we can’t have a future together."
I didn't care for these bits of inner monologues, they jarred me out of the story, and I found them too simplistic, spelling everything out for the reader.
This short novella tries to pack quite a story with the development of Bek and Merys' feelings, love, lust, some background information on Bek and how the world of the gods works, on the everyday life of Merys and her family, then a bit of historical events, drama, tragedy; and I felt that the horrific events taking place at the end of the story (in the last third of the story) didn't have the desired impact since the story rushed on without the reader spending enough time to first understand, then feel and grieve the loss.
The world-building, the Egyptian setting with the descriptions of the bank of the Nile, the village as well as the customs, clothes, society and hierarchy of Ancient Egypt as well as the inclusion of the different gods and parts of their legends was interesting and unique. I found this part of the story enchanting, I'm just sorry that Bek and Merys remained two-dimensional characters and due to their lack of development their romance wasn't as exciting or interesting as the setting.
The highlight of Priestess of the Nile for me was the colourful and very vivid descriptions Veronica Scott gave us of Bek as the Crocodile God. I am not a fan of crocodiles and definitely do not see them as beautiful or attractive animals, but Veronica Scott managed to portray Bek in such a way that I saw crocodiles in a different light, and I could easily picture Bek as the impressive and awe-inspiring crocodile-man-god that he is written to be.
Verdict: The premise and world-building of Priestess of the Nile are very interesting and rich, but sadly the characters remain only stereotypical shells without much personality or memorable qualities (mostly in the case of Merys). Priestess of the Nile will take you on a short and interesting travel through time and place, but don't expect a well developed or captivating epic love story.
Plot: 7/10
Characters: 6/10
Writing: 5/10
Ending: 6/10
Cover: 9/10
I give Priestess of the Nile 2.5 stars!
Priestess of the Nile is merely a 63 page-long novella, and naturally what such strict length limitation means is that neither the story nor the characters have enough time to be developed in much detail.
I understood and accepted that there wasn't much time for character development due to the shortness of the novella, but the writing style with its quite short and clipped sentences wasn't to my liking. I found the lines strung together one after the other without much link or transition, and due to this I found the writing fractured:
" "My village is full of busybodies." Perhaps remembering some recent gossip, she pinched the bridge of her nose, closing her eyes. He set the wineskin between them, unsettled by her mood. He was a little resentful, slightly angry. After all, these evenings were for his amusement. Weren't they?"
At times the reader is given a glimpse into the hero's and the heroine's inner musings, with just a few thoughts added to the outside narrative:
"A beautiful soprano voice rose from the beach below the bluff. Bek recognized the words of a familiar old song, given new meaning by the hypnotizing, alluring voice. I must see this songbird. She’s cast some kind of spell over me."
"But what can a mortal offer a Great One, save for easy pleasure? My heart is so confused. He wants me, I ache for him, but we can’t have a future together."
I didn't care for these bits of inner monologues, they jarred me out of the story, and I found them too simplistic, spelling everything out for the reader.
This short novella tries to pack quite a story with the development of Bek and Merys' feelings, love, lust, some background information on Bek and how the world of the gods works, on the everyday life of Merys and her family, then a bit of historical events, drama, tragedy; and I felt that the horrific events taking place at the end of the story (in the last third of the story) didn't have the desired impact since the story rushed on without the reader spending enough time to first understand, then feel and grieve the loss.
The world-building, the Egyptian setting with the descriptions of the bank of the Nile, the village as well as the customs, clothes, society and hierarchy of Ancient Egypt as well as the inclusion of the different gods and parts of their legends was interesting and unique. I found this part of the story enchanting, I'm just sorry that Bek and Merys remained two-dimensional characters and due to their lack of development their romance wasn't as exciting or interesting as the setting.
The highlight of Priestess of the Nile for me was the colourful and very vivid descriptions Veronica Scott gave us of Bek as the Crocodile God. I am not a fan of crocodiles and definitely do not see them as beautiful or attractive animals, but Veronica Scott managed to portray Bek in such a way that I saw crocodiles in a different light, and I could easily picture Bek as the impressive and awe-inspiring crocodile-man-god that he is written to be.
Verdict: The premise and world-building of Priestess of the Nile are very interesting and rich, but sadly the characters remain only stereotypical shells without much personality or memorable qualities (mostly in the case of Merys). Priestess of the Nile will take you on a short and interesting travel through time and place, but don't expect a well developed or captivating epic love story.
Plot: 7/10
Characters: 6/10
Writing: 5/10
Ending: 6/10
Cover: 9/10
I give Priestess of the Nile 2.5 stars!
January 26, 2012
Priestess of the Nile by Veronica Scott
* I received this ARC free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
The only time Merys has any peace is when she is on the beach near Sobek’s temple. Her grandmother was his last priestess and has handed down the stories and songs to Merys so she could continue to worship him even though their town had turned to another God.
She is treated like a servant in her own home where she is expected to care for her younger sisters and prepare the meals. She desperately wants a family of her own but she doesn’t have a dowry, that money is reserved for her younger step-sisters. The closest thing she will ever have to a child is her youngest step-sister, Tyema. She has a deformed leg, which makes her deformed in her own mother’s eyes; it’s the love of Merys that propels her forward.
Bek continues to visit his temple even though his people are no longer worshiping him. He is drawn to the beach by a heavenly voice singing a familiar tune. He and Merys spend stolen moments on the beach where Bek falls in love with her, even though he knows they have no future together. Events out of his control lead to new beginnings for him, Merys and his people.
Merys is a strong female that has the best out of the life she was given. She loves her little sister, despite her handicap and wants to pass the legacy down to her. My heart was breaking for her though because all she wanted was to be a wife and mother. She had lost hope of ever achieving those goals until she met Bek. She fell in love with him and believed he could be “the one”, even after he revealed his true self to her. I love the twist at the end where everything comes together.
Bek may be a God but he is lonely. When he hears Merys he is mesmerized by her voice. He enjoys her company and the talks that they have on the beach. She has shown him that not all people have forgotten about him and that true beauty is found within the person, not on the outside. He loves her to distraction and has to be extremely careful so Isis doesn’t find about her. In the end Isis turns out to be their savior.
Bek tries so hard to keep his hands off of her but after the incident with the crocodile he can no longer deny his feelings for her. He wants to give her a better life but she is loyal to her family and doesn’t want to leave Tyema alone. Because of Merys love, Bek took care of the people of the village and appointed a new Priestess for his temple.
I love that the story focuses primarily on Bek and Merys, while highlighting a couple of secondary characters. The author did an excellent job of describing the temple ruins, the beaches and other scenery; I had no problem imagining them there. I also love that it is set in ancient Egypt and included the Gods and Goddesses of the period.
Overall I really enjoyed this story and would definitely recommend it to others. I give Priestess of the Nile 4½ Flaming Hearts.
* I received this ARC free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
The only time Merys has any peace is when she is on the beach near Sobek’s temple. Her grandmother was his last priestess and has handed down the stories and songs to Merys so she could continue to worship him even though their town had turned to another God.
She is treated like a servant in her own home where she is expected to care for her younger sisters and prepare the meals. She desperately wants a family of her own but she doesn’t have a dowry, that money is reserved for her younger step-sisters. The closest thing she will ever have to a child is her youngest step-sister, Tyema. She has a deformed leg, which makes her deformed in her own mother’s eyes; it’s the love of Merys that propels her forward.
Bek continues to visit his temple even though his people are no longer worshiping him. He is drawn to the beach by a heavenly voice singing a familiar tune. He and Merys spend stolen moments on the beach where Bek falls in love with her, even though he knows they have no future together. Events out of his control lead to new beginnings for him, Merys and his people.
Merys is a strong female that has the best out of the life she was given. She loves her little sister, despite her handicap and wants to pass the legacy down to her. My heart was breaking for her though because all she wanted was to be a wife and mother. She had lost hope of ever achieving those goals until she met Bek. She fell in love with him and believed he could be “the one”, even after he revealed his true self to her. I love the twist at the end where everything comes together.
Bek may be a God but he is lonely. When he hears Merys he is mesmerized by her voice. He enjoys her company and the talks that they have on the beach. She has shown him that not all people have forgotten about him and that true beauty is found within the person, not on the outside. He loves her to distraction and has to be extremely careful so Isis doesn’t find about her. In the end Isis turns out to be their savior.
Bek tries so hard to keep his hands off of her but after the incident with the crocodile he can no longer deny his feelings for her. He wants to give her a better life but she is loyal to her family and doesn’t want to leave Tyema alone. Because of Merys love, Bek took care of the people of the village and appointed a new Priestess for his temple.
I love that the story focuses primarily on Bek and Merys, while highlighting a couple of secondary characters. The author did an excellent job of describing the temple ruins, the beaches and other scenery; I had no problem imagining them there. I also love that it is set in ancient Egypt and included the Gods and Goddesses of the period.
Overall I really enjoyed this story and would definitely recommend it to others. I give Priestess of the Nile 4½ Flaming Hearts.
February 23, 2012
“How doth the little crocodile / Improve his shining tail, / And pour the waters of the Nile,/ On every golden scale!” - Lewis Carroll
Merys spends most of her time on the banks of the Nile near the abandoned temple of the Crocodile God Sobek. as long as she takes care of the household, her stepsisters and provide food on the table, Merys is safe from incurring the wrath of her stepmother. on one occasion, she meets a stranger who captivates her. Bek, in turn, is drawn to her and wants to possess her. little does Merys know that the man is Sobek, the Crocodile God himself.
i have always been fascinated by Egypt and its history - fact or fiction. when i read this book, i was once again lured by the mystery of Egypt's pyramids, temples and its pantheon of gods and goddesses.
author Veronica Scott's novella captured a facet of Ancient Egypt and brought it to life through the eyes of Merys and Sobek.
i love the worldbuilding and how the story flowed. Merys reminds me of Cinderella but instead of a prince, she ends up with a god. the twists and turns were interesting especially the conclusion which i liked a lot.
i would have wanted the story to be longer though but as a whole, the novella was packaged just right.
i recommend this book to readers who love ancient history and mythology. those who need to escape and be transported to a different time and place for a little more than an hour will find in this book the perfect excuse to do so.
Disclosure of Material Connection: i received a copy of Priestess of the Nile from the author herself. i did not receive any payment in exchange for this review nor was i obligated to write a positive one. all opinions expressed here are entirely my own and may not necessarily agree with those of the author, the book's publisher and publicist or the readers of this review. this disclosure is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255, Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
Merys spends most of her time on the banks of the Nile near the abandoned temple of the Crocodile God Sobek. as long as she takes care of the household, her stepsisters and provide food on the table, Merys is safe from incurring the wrath of her stepmother. on one occasion, she meets a stranger who captivates her. Bek, in turn, is drawn to her and wants to possess her. little does Merys know that the man is Sobek, the Crocodile God himself.
i have always been fascinated by Egypt and its history - fact or fiction. when i read this book, i was once again lured by the mystery of Egypt's pyramids, temples and its pantheon of gods and goddesses.
author Veronica Scott's novella captured a facet of Ancient Egypt and brought it to life through the eyes of Merys and Sobek.
i love the worldbuilding and how the story flowed. Merys reminds me of Cinderella but instead of a prince, she ends up with a god. the twists and turns were interesting especially the conclusion which i liked a lot.
i would have wanted the story to be longer though but as a whole, the novella was packaged just right.
i recommend this book to readers who love ancient history and mythology. those who need to escape and be transported to a different time and place for a little more than an hour will find in this book the perfect excuse to do so.
Disclosure of Material Connection: i received a copy of Priestess of the Nile from the author herself. i did not receive any payment in exchange for this review nor was i obligated to write a positive one. all opinions expressed here are entirely my own and may not necessarily agree with those of the author, the book's publisher and publicist or the readers of this review. this disclosure is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255, Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
February 20, 2012
I really enjoyed this novella as it had such rich Egyptian history and information about the Gods and civilization. You can tell a lot of time was spent researching the details of the Gods and the area of Egypt that was to be explored. It did not feel too heavy with detail - it was just the right amount of historical information mixed with a love story.
The love story was actually quiet nice - I've read that some felt that it was rushed due to the length of the novel, but I honestly think it was fine as it fit the flow of the story. I think with a novella I just accept that things will happen in a shorter time frame as the length of the story is short, but when I feel that a story could have been expanded upon I always make mention of it. I suppose it could have been expanded upon, but really what more do you need than a couple who fall in love and need each other almost more than air? I think it was written the way it was because you were to feel the rush that Merys and Bek felt when they were together. That magnetism that happens when you just know you've found the person you were meant to be with.
I liked the fact that Merys was a priestess for Sobek, the Crocodile God and when he happens upon her randomly along the shores of the Nile he sees a Cinderella-like young woman. She has been treated more like a slave than the daughter she really is. Her mother passed when she was young and once her father remarried and had more children, he let his new wife dictate how things would go. The thing about Merys is that she doesn't let it upset her and she goes about her daily life doing everything that is asked of her. During her free time she has always tended to the temple of Sobek and sang songs to honour him. And Sobek ends up falling deeply for her even though it's against the rules of the Gods. He would do anything for her and that made him endearing to me. There were a few emotional parts where I was so angry with what happens, but in the end things always have a way of working out for the best.
The love story was actually quiet nice - I've read that some felt that it was rushed due to the length of the novel, but I honestly think it was fine as it fit the flow of the story. I think with a novella I just accept that things will happen in a shorter time frame as the length of the story is short, but when I feel that a story could have been expanded upon I always make mention of it. I suppose it could have been expanded upon, but really what more do you need than a couple who fall in love and need each other almost more than air? I think it was written the way it was because you were to feel the rush that Merys and Bek felt when they were together. That magnetism that happens when you just know you've found the person you were meant to be with.
I liked the fact that Merys was a priestess for Sobek, the Crocodile God and when he happens upon her randomly along the shores of the Nile he sees a Cinderella-like young woman. She has been treated more like a slave than the daughter she really is. Her mother passed when she was young and once her father remarried and had more children, he let his new wife dictate how things would go. The thing about Merys is that she doesn't let it upset her and she goes about her daily life doing everything that is asked of her. During her free time she has always tended to the temple of Sobek and sang songs to honour him. And Sobek ends up falling deeply for her even though it's against the rules of the Gods. He would do anything for her and that made him endearing to me. There were a few emotional parts where I was so angry with what happens, but in the end things always have a way of working out for the best.
December 30, 2011
Read complete review here: http://notjustnonsense.blogspot.com/2...
Loving all things egyptian, as soon as I read the book synopsis, I knew I had to give it a try. Priestess of the Nile was a very short story, with 21,000 words, but all of them with a poetic touch to them.
The writing really makes you think you're back in old Egypt. The vocabulary and the descriptions of clothing and places make it all more believable.
I liked the story, I read it in one sitting before going to bed, but I wasn't very impressed.
Bek, the mighty Crocodile God went from conceited, vain and somewhat heartless, to warm and caring. But still I didn't really get a true feeling of the love he repeatedly claimed he felt. Sure, I felt sorry for him many times, but his heart didn't really reach out to me, I guess.
Merys was a very sweet, innocent woman. Her family was very crappy (which made me like her even more for all that they put her through) and she seemed to really fall for Bek, but, again, I didn't get the impression of the real thing from the writing.
I think I just didn't like it more because the dialogues were so formal, and there weren't many descriptions of what was happening half the time (I like to read things happening, not just being told about them, I guess).
I really enjoyed the scenes with the old Egyptian Gods in them, such as Osiris and Isis. I loved every mention about them.
I expected a more... well, hot read from the cover, but the book was surprisingly tame. LOL. There were sex scenes, don't get me wrong, but they weren't very sexual, if you get my meaning? They weren't explicit at all. Like I said before, the book sounds very poetic to you as you read it.
If you like quick reads, sweet romances and egyptian tales, go for it. ;)
*I received an eARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.*
Loving all things egyptian, as soon as I read the book synopsis, I knew I had to give it a try. Priestess of the Nile was a very short story, with 21,000 words, but all of them with a poetic touch to them.
The writing really makes you think you're back in old Egypt. The vocabulary and the descriptions of clothing and places make it all more believable.
I liked the story, I read it in one sitting before going to bed, but I wasn't very impressed.
Bek, the mighty Crocodile God went from conceited, vain and somewhat heartless, to warm and caring. But still I didn't really get a true feeling of the love he repeatedly claimed he felt. Sure, I felt sorry for him many times, but his heart didn't really reach out to me, I guess.
Merys was a very sweet, innocent woman. Her family was very crappy (which made me like her even more for all that they put her through) and she seemed to really fall for Bek, but, again, I didn't get the impression of the real thing from the writing.
I think I just didn't like it more because the dialogues were so formal, and there weren't many descriptions of what was happening half the time (I like to read things happening, not just being told about them, I guess).
I really enjoyed the scenes with the old Egyptian Gods in them, such as Osiris and Isis. I loved every mention about them.
I expected a more... well, hot read from the cover, but the book was surprisingly tame. LOL. There were sex scenes, don't get me wrong, but they weren't very sexual, if you get my meaning? They weren't explicit at all. Like I said before, the book sounds very poetic to you as you read it.
If you like quick reads, sweet romances and egyptian tales, go for it. ;)
*I received an eARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.*
February 18, 2012
received from NetGalley for review
(synopsis)
Egypt, 1500 BC
Drawn to his abandoned temple on the banks of the Nile by an enchanting song, Sobek the Crocodile God is even more captivated by the sight of the singer herself. Appearing to her as a man, he learns she is Merys, a descendant of his last priestess. Though filled with lust, Sobek believes Merys deserves to be more than just his mistress. But the rules that govern the Egyptian pantheon forbid anything beyond a physical joining of a Great One and a human.
Merys is attracted to the handsome stranger, who arouses passions in her that no man ever has. But with no dowry and no hope of ever leaving her village, she dares not dream of the future—or love.
Sobek takes every opportunity to visit Merys, taxing his resolve to leave her pure. When he saves her life, their mutual desire must be sated. But can a love between a human and an immortal survive the ultimate test of the gods?
21,000 words
review:
I enjoyed reading this book. It is a very short, very quick read. I love anything relating to Ancient Egypt. This is listed as an adult book. I think the author could have avoided the graphic descriptions of the horizontal activities and made this book available for a younger audience. It is a classic love story, one that transcends life and death. The characters are strong and independent, especially Merys, the Priestess of Sobek. She has a delightful personality, she is a calming influence to all around her. She shrugs off being mistreated by her good for nothing family. Her only close relation is a much younger sister who is also mistreated by the family.
The end was not a surprise, it was exactly as I expected. A short novella, with a nice ending. Love conquers all, even death.
(synopsis)
Egypt, 1500 BC
Drawn to his abandoned temple on the banks of the Nile by an enchanting song, Sobek the Crocodile God is even more captivated by the sight of the singer herself. Appearing to her as a man, he learns she is Merys, a descendant of his last priestess. Though filled with lust, Sobek believes Merys deserves to be more than just his mistress. But the rules that govern the Egyptian pantheon forbid anything beyond a physical joining of a Great One and a human.
Merys is attracted to the handsome stranger, who arouses passions in her that no man ever has. But with no dowry and no hope of ever leaving her village, she dares not dream of the future—or love.
Sobek takes every opportunity to visit Merys, taxing his resolve to leave her pure. When he saves her life, their mutual desire must be sated. But can a love between a human and an immortal survive the ultimate test of the gods?
21,000 words
review:
I enjoyed reading this book. It is a very short, very quick read. I love anything relating to Ancient Egypt. This is listed as an adult book. I think the author could have avoided the graphic descriptions of the horizontal activities and made this book available for a younger audience. It is a classic love story, one that transcends life and death. The characters are strong and independent, especially Merys, the Priestess of Sobek. She has a delightful personality, she is a calming influence to all around her. She shrugs off being mistreated by her good for nothing family. Her only close relation is a much younger sister who is also mistreated by the family.
The end was not a surprise, it was exactly as I expected. A short novella, with a nice ending. Love conquers all, even death.
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