What do you think?
Rate this book
Death and Desire
Violet Connoly's obsession with Egypt began when she was a little girl. She treasures the precious gem her mother purchased from a street vendor while visiting Cairo and one day hopes to visit the country that haunts her dreams. When her father schedules a business trip, she convinces him to let her come along, but his concession comes with strings. Her brother must accompany her on every outing.
Her dream of seeing Cairo in all its splendor is dashed when her brother and his best friend fail to uphold their agreement. Her father hires Khalid, a local bodyguard, to protect her. Determined to enjoy Egypt on her terms without a stoic stranger following her—no matter how handsome he is—Violet abandons all caution only to find herself in mortal danger.
Violet quickly discovers her new protector is far more than a hired goon. He's Anubis, god of the dead…and he's set his sights on the one thing Violet treasures more than life itself. The jewel she wears in memory of her late mother. But it seems Anubis is not the only one enticed by such a treasure.
Her dream of seeing Cairo in all its splendor is dashed when her brother and his best friend fail to uphold their agreement. Her father hires Khalid, a local bodyguard, to protect her. Determined to enjoy Egypt on her terms without a stoic stranger following her—no matter how handsome he is—Violet abandons all caution only to find herself in mortal danger.
Violet quickly discovers her new protector is far more than a hired goon. He's Anubis, god of the dead…and he's set his sights on the one thing Violet treasures more than life itself. The jewel she wears in memory of her late mother. But it seems Anubis is not the only one enticed by such a treasure.
240 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 29, 2024
5 people are currently reading
111 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
August 7, 2024
Note: Some of my goodreads shelves can be spoilers
Overall: 4.5 rounded to ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Readability: 📖📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑🍑
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥🔥🔥
Humor: A bit
Perspective: third person from the heroine mostly. There’s only a few chapters from Anubis’ point of view
More character focused or plot focused? character
How did the speed of the story feel? slower
When mains are first on page together: it takes awhile for them to be together
Cliffhanger: No, this ends with a happily ever after
Epilogue: Yes, but it felt more like a final chapter to me and not a true epilogue to me (it’s not very far in the future)
Format: voluntarily read an advanced reader copy in e-book form from the author (thank you!)
(Descriptions found at end of my review)
Should I read in order?
This is the first in Blacketer's Love in Cairo series.
Basic plot:
Violet has been longing to go to Egypt as a connection to her mother she has lost. She is unaware how important her inherited bracelet is to someone there, however…
Give this a try if you want:
- historical monster romance
- 1933 time period
- Egypt setting
- bodyguard vibes
- Anubis hero (Egyptian God) and human heroine pairing
- slow burn with great build up
- height difference in his God form
- telepathic connection
- hero is sexually inexperienced
- medium steam – 3 full scenes
Ages:
- Heroine is 25, hero is thousands of years old
First line:
What use is a heart to the god of the dead?
My thoughts:
Oh my goodness, I just loooooooved this book. The cover drew me in! How could I resist the possibility of such a beautiful story with that cover???
And the story delivered for me. Delivered all the things I really enjoy and love in romance. It is a slower burn for sure, and the story itself can feel like it’s moving slowly. But I encourage you to stick with it because when it gets moving, it grabbed my heart sooooo good. In the best way it grabbed and held on and I was so invested in this story. I was dying for Anubis and Violet to give in to each other. Such delicious sexual tension for me!
Ideally I could have used a bit more from Anubis’ POV, and maybe a touch more emotion from him in some of the scenes – he’s very serious and some of his dialogue came across to me as monotone when I wanted him to be close to losing control over Violet. But overall, I just adored this whole story.
This is my first by Blacketer and I immediately signed up for her newsletter and plan on trying more. I really liked her writing style and I’m hoping I love more by her too! I stayed up allll night finishing this
Few random reading stats for this author
# of books read: This is my first
Average rating: 5 stars
Favorite book: This one!
Cock/Hero Stats:
Endearments
Quotes/thoughts: (Any mistakes are my own)
Content warnings: (This should be taken as a minimum because I could have missed some!)
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes, safe sex, consent, pregnancy/child in the story:
Extra stuff like what my review breakdowns mean, where to find me, and book clubs
Overall: 4.5 rounded to ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Readability: 📖📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑🍑
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥🔥🔥
Humor: A bit
Perspective: third person from the heroine mostly. There’s only a few chapters from Anubis’ point of view
More character focused or plot focused? character
How did the speed of the story feel? slower
When mains are first on page together: it takes awhile for them to be together
Cliffhanger: No, this ends with a happily ever after
Epilogue: Yes, but it felt more like a final chapter to me and not a true epilogue to me (it’s not very far in the future)
Format: voluntarily read an advanced reader copy in e-book form from the author (thank you!)
(Descriptions found at end of my review)
Should I read in order?
This is the first in Blacketer's Love in Cairo series.
Basic plot:
Violet has been longing to go to Egypt as a connection to her mother she has lost. She is unaware how important her inherited bracelet is to someone there, however…
Give this a try if you want:
- historical monster romance
- 1933 time period
- Egypt setting
- bodyguard vibes
- Anubis hero (Egyptian God) and human heroine pairing
- slow burn with great build up
- height difference in his God form
- telepathic connection
- hero is sexually inexperienced
- medium steam – 3 full scenes
Ages:
- Heroine is 25, hero is thousands of years old
First line:
What use is a heart to the god of the dead?
My thoughts:
Oh my goodness, I just loooooooved this book. The cover drew me in! How could I resist the possibility of such a beautiful story with that cover???
And the story delivered for me. Delivered all the things I really enjoy and love in romance. It is a slower burn for sure, and the story itself can feel like it’s moving slowly. But I encourage you to stick with it because when it gets moving, it grabbed my heart sooooo good. In the best way it grabbed and held on and I was so invested in this story. I was dying for Anubis and Violet to give in to each other. Such delicious sexual tension for me!
Ideally I could have used a bit more from Anubis’ POV, and maybe a touch more emotion from him in some of the scenes – he’s very serious and some of his dialogue came across to me as monotone when I wanted him to be close to losing control over Violet. But overall, I just adored this whole story.
This is my first by Blacketer and I immediately signed up for her newsletter and plan on trying more. I really liked her writing style and I’m hoping I love more by her too! I stayed up allll night finishing this
Few random reading stats for this author
# of books read: This is my first
Average rating: 5 stars
Favorite book: This one!
Cock/Hero Stats:
Endearments
Quotes/thoughts: (Any mistakes are my own)
Content warnings: (This should be taken as a minimum because I could have missed some!)
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes, safe sex, consent, pregnancy/child in the story:
Extra stuff like what my review breakdowns mean, where to find me, and book clubs
October 11, 2024
“𝘕𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘴𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘢𝘯 𝘢𝘤𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘎𝘰𝘥 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘥𝘪𝘴𝘴𝘶𝘢𝘥𝘦 𝘮𝘦 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘱.”
Violet Connoly has dreamed of visiting Egypt since she was a child in England, when her mother returned from a trip and gave her a jewelled bracelet from Cairo. Now a grown woman of twenty-five, Violet has lost her mother, but the memories of her stories remain. Violet’s dreams of Egypt become increasingly vivid and often feature a tall, alluring man whose face is hidden. When Violet finally arrives in Cairo with her father, brother, and a family friend, she is drawn to a handsome stranger who reminds her of her dreams …
“𝘕𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘩𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘦𝘯 𝘵𝘰 𝘮𝘦. 𝘐 ����𝘳𝘰𝘮𝘪𝘴𝘦.”
Kirsten Blacketer makes Egypt in 1933 come alive with fragrances, sights, sounds, and exotic landscapes. I felt transported. From the start, her writing conveys a brisk pacing and cheeky optimism. This book rescued me from a reading slump and hooked me immediately! Violet; her strict but well meaning father, Templeton; her rascally brother, Isaac; and his equally slippery best friend, David, are adorably carefree and, not infrequently, clueless to dangers surrounding them. For, in addition to scoundrels looking for unsuspecting tourists, Cairo is home to ancient gods disguised as humans and animals alike.
It’s in this detail that Death and Desire captures the fun that embodies a cross between The Mummy and Gods of Egypt. Anubis takes a particular interest in the girl who bears the jewelled bracelet. His rival Seth sees an opportunity to be exploited. Bast stretches her feline self into the picture. And Ra watches over with omnipotent indifference. As a mythology fan, I was delighted!
“𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘴𝘢𝘪𝘥 𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘵𝘢𝘭𝘭, 𝘥𝘢𝘳𝘬, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘣𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘢𝘰𝘩𝘴, 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘰𝘭𝘥 𝘮𝘦 𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘢 𝘨𝘰𝘥.”
Honestly, Anubis made this story for me. He’s broody and protective and full of contradictions: ancient yet curious, soft yet deadly, reserved but intense in passion. He literally takes on a human bodyguard persona to follow Violet around. The chemistry between them is so palpable! This is steamy to be sure. It’s especially spicy when they decide to take their romance to god-level!
“𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘩𝘶𝘮𝘢𝘯, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘯𝘰 𝘰𝘯𝘦. 𝘕𝘰𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘮𝘦.”
Death and Desire feels fresh, light-hearted, and charmingly self-aware. It drew me in and made me want to stay longer. I’ve enjoyed Kirsten’s books for many years, but this one has taken my admiration to another level.
Violet Connoly has dreamed of visiting Egypt since she was a child in England, when her mother returned from a trip and gave her a jewelled bracelet from Cairo. Now a grown woman of twenty-five, Violet has lost her mother, but the memories of her stories remain. Violet’s dreams of Egypt become increasingly vivid and often feature a tall, alluring man whose face is hidden. When Violet finally arrives in Cairo with her father, brother, and a family friend, she is drawn to a handsome stranger who reminds her of her dreams …
“𝘕𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘩𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘦𝘯 𝘵𝘰 𝘮𝘦. 𝘐 ����𝘳𝘰𝘮𝘪𝘴𝘦.”
Kirsten Blacketer makes Egypt in 1933 come alive with fragrances, sights, sounds, and exotic landscapes. I felt transported. From the start, her writing conveys a brisk pacing and cheeky optimism. This book rescued me from a reading slump and hooked me immediately! Violet; her strict but well meaning father, Templeton; her rascally brother, Isaac; and his equally slippery best friend, David, are adorably carefree and, not infrequently, clueless to dangers surrounding them. For, in addition to scoundrels looking for unsuspecting tourists, Cairo is home to ancient gods disguised as humans and animals alike.
It’s in this detail that Death and Desire captures the fun that embodies a cross between The Mummy and Gods of Egypt. Anubis takes a particular interest in the girl who bears the jewelled bracelet. His rival Seth sees an opportunity to be exploited. Bast stretches her feline self into the picture. And Ra watches over with omnipotent indifference. As a mythology fan, I was delighted!
“𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘴𝘢𝘪𝘥 𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘵𝘢𝘭𝘭, 𝘥𝘢𝘳𝘬, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘣𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘢𝘰𝘩𝘴, 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘰𝘭𝘥 𝘮𝘦 𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘢 𝘨𝘰𝘥.”
Honestly, Anubis made this story for me. He’s broody and protective and full of contradictions: ancient yet curious, soft yet deadly, reserved but intense in passion. He literally takes on a human bodyguard persona to follow Violet around. The chemistry between them is so palpable! This is steamy to be sure. It’s especially spicy when they decide to take their romance to god-level!
“𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘩𝘶𝘮𝘢𝘯, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘯𝘰 𝘰𝘯𝘦. 𝘕𝘰𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘮𝘦.”
Death and Desire feels fresh, light-hearted, and charmingly self-aware. It drew me in and made me want to stay longer. I’ve enjoyed Kirsten’s books for many years, but this one has taken my admiration to another level.
October 13, 2024
Thanks to Booksprout for a copy of this novel and this is my freely given opinion.
This is the first time I am reading something by this author, and I definitely will have her other books on my radar as well now.
This is historical love story set in the early 20th century, set in Egypt, with a supernatural bent as it involves Egyptian mythological characters. I was intrigued by the blurb as I have always had a love of different cultures mythologies.
Anubis, god the dead, found himself too engaged in the stories of the dead he was tasked with guiding in their journey to the underworld. He seeks out the aid of his father, Ra, to remove his heart so that he can more effectively concentrate on his duties, without distractions. Ra does so and gives him a physical incarnation of his heart for Anubis to safeguard. He does so by hiding his heart in a tomb of a dead human. But at some point that tomb is raided and his heart taken as booty, and sold. He is outraged by the theft, and through his connection to the missing part of him, is able to track it, but not able to seek it out himself as it has left Egypt. He uses his powers to lure the thief back to Egypt, and return the heart to him.
Violet Connoly is the pampered daughter of a wealthy British industrialist. She has an abiding love of all things Egyptian, since being a young girl and listening to her mothers' stories of her adventures in the exotic land. Her most treasured possessions, after her mother's death, are a locket and a strangely jeweled bangle her mother gave her. She has a compelling desire to travel to Egypt and see these wonders herself. She is able to fulfill this desire when her father agrees to allow her, her brother, and a close friend accompany him on his business trip, but with strict rules and chaperonage for her safety.
When in Cairo, Violet explores the joys of modern day Egypt, and the wonders of the past, but is forced to do so under the scrutiny of a mysterious bodyguard, Khalid, hired by her father. She is both intrigued and attracted by the man, but irritated by the constraints he represents to her independence and ability to explore freely.
Soon it comes to light that Violet unknowingly holds the heart of Anubis in the mysterious jeweled bangle that was gifted to her by her mother, as a child, and not just Anubis is seeking this hidden treasure.
An unusual, intriguing love story between a mysterious god and a human. I enjoyed the supernatural/mythological elements and the creative love story. It was also graphically sensual as well (and rather creatively so when you consider Anubis in his godly aspect is large, intimidating, and with a jackal head).
4 stars out of 5
This is the first time I am reading something by this author, and I definitely will have her other books on my radar as well now.
This is historical love story set in the early 20th century, set in Egypt, with a supernatural bent as it involves Egyptian mythological characters. I was intrigued by the blurb as I have always had a love of different cultures mythologies.
Anubis, god the dead, found himself too engaged in the stories of the dead he was tasked with guiding in their journey to the underworld. He seeks out the aid of his father, Ra, to remove his heart so that he can more effectively concentrate on his duties, without distractions. Ra does so and gives him a physical incarnation of his heart for Anubis to safeguard. He does so by hiding his heart in a tomb of a dead human. But at some point that tomb is raided and his heart taken as booty, and sold. He is outraged by the theft, and through his connection to the missing part of him, is able to track it, but not able to seek it out himself as it has left Egypt. He uses his powers to lure the thief back to Egypt, and return the heart to him.
Violet Connoly is the pampered daughter of a wealthy British industrialist. She has an abiding love of all things Egyptian, since being a young girl and listening to her mothers' stories of her adventures in the exotic land. Her most treasured possessions, after her mother's death, are a locket and a strangely jeweled bangle her mother gave her. She has a compelling desire to travel to Egypt and see these wonders herself. She is able to fulfill this desire when her father agrees to allow her, her brother, and a close friend accompany him on his business trip, but with strict rules and chaperonage for her safety.
When in Cairo, Violet explores the joys of modern day Egypt, and the wonders of the past, but is forced to do so under the scrutiny of a mysterious bodyguard, Khalid, hired by her father. She is both intrigued and attracted by the man, but irritated by the constraints he represents to her independence and ability to explore freely.
Soon it comes to light that Violet unknowingly holds the heart of Anubis in the mysterious jeweled bangle that was gifted to her by her mother, as a child, and not just Anubis is seeking this hidden treasure.
An unusual, intriguing love story between a mysterious god and a human. I enjoyed the supernatural/mythological elements and the creative love story. It was also graphically sensual as well (and rather creatively so when you consider Anubis in his godly aspect is large, intimidating, and with a jackal head).
4 stars out of 5
Read
October 30, 2024I don’t give lower ratings to books that are just released, nor books that have very few ratings to begin with. I think this book might suit others, and I want to give them the opportunity to pick it up without a strangers low rating biasing their opinion.
Unfortunately, as much as I anticipated this book (enough to set a reminder for the release date), I was disappointed in the lack of depth to the story and characters. There is so much rich history that comes with writing a historical romance that follows the Egyptian gods, and to have virtually none of that present in this book? Sigh. 😔
Unfortunately, as much as I anticipated this book (enough to set a reminder for the release date), I was disappointed in the lack of depth to the story and characters. There is so much rich history that comes with writing a historical romance that follows the Egyptian gods, and to have virtually none of that present in this book? Sigh. 😔
May 2, 2024
A sheltered yet independent-minded woman from England falls for an sexy immortal god of the dead? I am there! And it was as glorious as I hoped it would be.
Violet was a likable character. She's spunky and knows what she desires out of life, even though society and the men in her life try to dictate what she needs. This story gave off "The Mummy"(1999) vibes. Khalid has been hired to protect Violet while they are in Cairo, but he reminds her of the mysterious man she has dreamed of since she was a child. He is sexy as hell, dark and brooding and always just where she really needs him. When he reveals his true identity, I loved how her acceptance of him is a gradual journey.
The sexual tension is so good and I loved the mystery surrounding the story. And yes, there is monsterf*cking (or should we call it godf*cking?)! Wheeeee!!!!! But what took my heart was the sweetness and adoration between them both. Very swoon worthy <3
Violet was a likable character. She's spunky and knows what she desires out of life, even though society and the men in her life try to dictate what she needs. This story gave off "The Mummy"(1999) vibes. Khalid has been hired to protect Violet while they are in Cairo, but he reminds her of the mysterious man she has dreamed of since she was a child. He is sexy as hell, dark and brooding and always just where she really needs him. When he reveals his true identity, I loved how her acceptance of him is a gradual journey.
The sexual tension is so good and I loved the mystery surrounding the story. And yes, there is monsterf*cking (or should we call it godf*cking?)! Wheeeee!!!!! But what took my heart was the sweetness and adoration between them both. Very swoon worthy <3
November 2, 2024
Too much isekai for me.
August 19, 2024
⭐️ Please note that this is an ARC-review! ⭐️
SPOILERS: There’s three excerpts from the book but nothing too overly spoiler-ish. 😊
“It’s not as if any harm ever came from reading a book.”
… BUT you might just fall in love when reading this book! It’s a love that transcends worlds.
Violet’s mother gives her a one of a kind bracelet upon returning from a trip to Egypt when Violet is just 10.
Violet has vivid dreams about Egypt for years after that, and she feels a strong pull to follow in her mother’s footsteps and see the land for herself.
“After years of pleading, her father had agreed to take her to Cairo. Finally, she would see the wonders her mother told her about in bedtime stories. The luxurious hotels. The pyramids. The vibrant marketplaces.”
At the age of twenty five she finally gets to set her feet in the Egyptian sand and her first night at the hotel is with dreams of Cairo:
“A dream of Egypt came again, but this time it was different. Tonight, she pictured herself in Cairo, wandering through the narrow streets.
(…)
Shadows shifted, materializing out of darkness, taking on shape. A familiar form. Tall, broad, strong... most certainly a man.
Not merely a man.
- ‘You have come at last.’
(…)
Although his face was hidden and she’d never actually seen it, she knew this man as well as her own reflection.
- ‘Welcome to my home, little thief.’”
👆🏼I squealed here! Who doesn’t like a mysterious shadow daddy?! 🥵
The primary story is set in 1933, so if you like a “The Mummy” vibe, romance, adventure and everything Egyptian (especially the gods! 🫶🏼) this is a book for you.
It’s an easy read but filled with great details about Egyptian gods - hat off to Kirsten Blacketer for her research before writing this book! 🙌🏼
It’s a slow burn, and Violet’s thoughts throughout this slow burn is SO recognizable! 🙈
Oh my word - I ALMOST FORGOT THE SPICE 🤯🤦🏻♀️
Because of what I (also) read this is an 2,5 in spice, but for someone who’s not a huge smut-reader, this could easily be a 3,5 or more! So I give this a nice three 🌶️🌶️🌶️ Just enough to say: “Yes daddy!” but without hearing a whip afterwards 🤌🏼
The only reason for not giving it ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ is that I missed a little insight in Anubis’ feelings. It makes sense that he’s a bit reserved in the beginning, but I would have loved a chapter or two from his POV, when the story unfolds. Or just more of the small things like looking too long, gracing her hand and such if his POV is in a future book.
He seems a bit too stoic, BUT then again: what he doesn’t say, he shows with his “touch her and ☠️” actions 🫶🏼
SPOILERS: There’s three excerpts from the book but nothing too overly spoiler-ish. 😊
“It’s not as if any harm ever came from reading a book.”
… BUT you might just fall in love when reading this book! It’s a love that transcends worlds.
Violet’s mother gives her a one of a kind bracelet upon returning from a trip to Egypt when Violet is just 10.
Violet has vivid dreams about Egypt for years after that, and she feels a strong pull to follow in her mother’s footsteps and see the land for herself.
“After years of pleading, her father had agreed to take her to Cairo. Finally, she would see the wonders her mother told her about in bedtime stories. The luxurious hotels. The pyramids. The vibrant marketplaces.”
At the age of twenty five she finally gets to set her feet in the Egyptian sand and her first night at the hotel is with dreams of Cairo:
“A dream of Egypt came again, but this time it was different. Tonight, she pictured herself in Cairo, wandering through the narrow streets.
(…)
Shadows shifted, materializing out of darkness, taking on shape. A familiar form. Tall, broad, strong... most certainly a man.
Not merely a man.
- ‘You have come at last.’
(…)
Although his face was hidden and she’d never actually seen it, she knew this man as well as her own reflection.
- ‘Welcome to my home, little thief.’”
👆🏼I squealed here! Who doesn’t like a mysterious shadow daddy?! 🥵
The primary story is set in 1933, so if you like a “The Mummy” vibe, romance, adventure and everything Egyptian (especially the gods! 🫶🏼) this is a book for you.
It’s an easy read but filled with great details about Egyptian gods - hat off to Kirsten Blacketer for her research before writing this book! 🙌🏼
It’s a slow burn, and Violet’s thoughts throughout this slow burn is SO recognizable! 🙈
Oh my word - I ALMOST FORGOT THE SPICE 🤯🤦🏻♀️
Because of what I (also) read this is an 2,5 in spice, but for someone who’s not a huge smut-reader, this could easily be a 3,5 or more! So I give this a nice three 🌶️🌶️🌶️ Just enough to say: “Yes daddy!” but without hearing a whip afterwards 🤌🏼
The only reason for not giving it ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ is that I missed a little insight in Anubis’ feelings. It makes sense that he’s a bit reserved in the beginning, but I would have loved a chapter or two from his POV, when the story unfolds. Or just more of the small things like looking too long, gracing her hand and such if his POV is in a future book.
He seems a bit too stoic, BUT then again: what he doesn’t say, he shows with his “touch her and ☠️” actions 🫶🏼
October 12, 2024
ARC REVIEW 📚
I've been looking forward to reading an Anubis romance novel for a while now, and I've got some thoughts to share!
Overall, this was a fun read. It was quite action-packed, and it would serve as a good starting point for those who are interested or want to dip their toes into monster romance. Reading this story, it reminded me of a crossover between "The Mummy" and "Tarzan," given the setting and how Violet bears some resemblance to Jane in terms of their enthusiasm and knowledge towards a particular subject and their attraction towards a mysterious stranger. While I found the story to be compelling, I felt that the current epilogue would've been better placed as part of the story's climax, given its relevance to the context and the intensity of the scene. Whereas, the current ending of the story would've been better suited as an epilogue as it provided more disclosure to the readers.
Speaking of the main characters, Violet was quite determined, naive, and adventurous, whereas Khalid embodied the very definition of "tall, dark, and handsome," in addition to his protective and loyal nature. Although I found some of their earlier interactions to be slightly frustrating, there was great tension and chemistry between Violet and Khalid, and in addition to the obstacles they went through, it made them strong as a couple. This translated well into the spicy scenes, which were definitely passionate.
I WOULD RECOMMEND IF 📒
If you're looking for a historical and adventurous monster romance that takes place in 1933 of Egypt with featured themes such as "slow burn," "size difference," "hired bodyguard," "possessive MMC," "age gap," "telepathic connection," "touch her and d!e," "abduction," and "HEA," then this is the book for you.
Note: I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I've been looking forward to reading an Anubis romance novel for a while now, and I've got some thoughts to share!
Overall, this was a fun read. It was quite action-packed, and it would serve as a good starting point for those who are interested or want to dip their toes into monster romance. Reading this story, it reminded me of a crossover between "The Mummy" and "Tarzan," given the setting and how Violet bears some resemblance to Jane in terms of their enthusiasm and knowledge towards a particular subject and their attraction towards a mysterious stranger. While I found the story to be compelling, I felt that the current epilogue would've been better placed as part of the story's climax, given its relevance to the context and the intensity of the scene. Whereas, the current ending of the story would've been better suited as an epilogue as it provided more disclosure to the readers.
Speaking of the main characters, Violet was quite determined, naive, and adventurous, whereas Khalid embodied the very definition of "tall, dark, and handsome," in addition to his protective and loyal nature. Although I found some of their earlier interactions to be slightly frustrating, there was great tension and chemistry between Violet and Khalid, and in addition to the obstacles they went through, it made them strong as a couple. This translated well into the spicy scenes, which were definitely passionate.
I WOULD RECOMMEND IF 📒
If you're looking for a historical and adventurous monster romance that takes place in 1933 of Egypt with featured themes such as "slow burn," "size difference," "hired bodyguard," "possessive MMC," "age gap," "telepathic connection," "touch her and d!e," "abduction," and "HEA," then this is the book for you.
Note: I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 5, 2024
Gleeful Goblin Review: So with a dedication to the cast of The Mummy circa 1999, one of my all time favorite films, I knew I was in for a great time from the jump. I can absolutely see the influence of the movie in this story, especially with our FMC Violet who reminds me SO MUCH of Evie from The Mummy. Both Violet and Evie have a deep curiosity, an intense love of stories/lore, and a fierce independence. In Violet's case her story differs from Evie's significantly in that her tie to Egypt happens in childhood instead of as an adult and with a deity instead of the cursed undead! That tie Violet has with Anubis is extremely unique and especially the introduction from Anubis' perspective reminded me heavily of mythology style storytelling. There's a definite twist in here that's really well done in my opinion. I love this fresh twist on finding love and knowing yourself whether you're human or divine. 5/5 Stars.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 5, 2024
Please note this is an ARC review 🩷
1930s Cairo. An overly protective father and an adventure she was destined to have. Violet has always dreamt of Egypt since she was a child thanks to her mother's stories and gifts from a trip there herself. What she didn't know was that these were all a call. A call from a certain God to return to him that which was stolen.
Violet is headstrong and determined to do exactly what she wants. Anubis is grumpy and I don't believe he knew what he was in for. The story overall kept me engaged, the characters really hooked me (even her father who made me mad on more than 1 occasion), and the amount of spice felt perfect for what was going on in the story. The banter and chemistry between characters was great and the story itself moved at a pace that was very consistent. Overall 5/5 would absolutely read another book from this universe!
1930s Cairo. An overly protective father and an adventure she was destined to have. Violet has always dreamt of Egypt since she was a child thanks to her mother's stories and gifts from a trip there herself. What she didn't know was that these were all a call. A call from a certain God to return to him that which was stolen.
Violet is headstrong and determined to do exactly what she wants. Anubis is grumpy and I don't believe he knew what he was in for. The story overall kept me engaged, the characters really hooked me (even her father who made me mad on more than 1 occasion), and the amount of spice felt perfect for what was going on in the story. The banter and chemistry between characters was great and the story itself moved at a pace that was very consistent. Overall 5/5 would absolutely read another book from this universe!
September 6, 2024
I received this as an arc and this is my honest review. I would give this a 2.5 ⭐️
I was excited to read an Egypt-based book and was drawn by the cover and the promise of “if you loved the Mummy.”
The famous “no harm ever came from reading a book” line from the movie was literally in this book. Why? It didn’t even fit the space. There were many cliches in this book and for me, that made it bland and uncreative.
This story was flat. Violet’s motivations were limp, at best. She was annoyed by the mmc and then in love with him without much build into the relationship. There was no real conflict and the little that showed up about 1/2 way through the book felt rushed.
I think the potential was there, but it missed the mark for me.
Spice was a 1🌶 but for those who don’t like much spice, it should be fine.
I was excited to read an Egypt-based book and was drawn by the cover and the promise of “if you loved the Mummy.”
The famous “no harm ever came from reading a book” line from the movie was literally in this book. Why? It didn’t even fit the space. There were many cliches in this book and for me, that made it bland and uncreative.
This story was flat. Violet’s motivations were limp, at best. She was annoyed by the mmc and then in love with him without much build into the relationship. There was no real conflict and the little that showed up about 1/2 way through the book felt rushed.
I think the potential was there, but it missed the mark for me.
Spice was a 1🌶 but for those who don’t like much spice, it should be fine.
October 30, 2024
Amber has had a fascination with Egypt since childhood. Her mother gave a bracelet from Egypt. Amber travels to Egypt with her father, brother, and friend. She comes in contact with a man, with a strong, dark personality. Her father hired Khalid, as her body guard. Khalid calls Amber "little Thief". He explains to her, that the jewel on her bracelet is rare. He later reveals that the green stone holds his heart. Amber feels used, ad refuses to see him again. Khalid reveals his true self to Amber. He tells her, that she is his mate. They face kidnapping, robbery, and evil. Will they stay together? The story flowed well. There is a hea.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 28, 2025
There was a semblance of a plot, albeit rushed. But let’s not fool anyone, that’s not why I read this lol. Ever since watching The Mummy movie growing up I’ve always been fascinated with ancient Egypt and its culture (felt the need to clarify that I’m referring to the 1999 version, not Tom Cruise’s 2017 fumble of an attempt at rebooting the franchise). So this book delivered on that front by virtue of containing different Egyptian gods as characters. I do wish there was more depth on that subject, but I still enjoyed the read. It seems Kirsten S. Blacketer left the possibility for a second book based on supporting characters from Death and Desire and if that comes to fruition I will be the first in line, please and thank you!
August 31, 2024
I could not put this down.
This was a freaking gem to read. As a huge The Mummy fan and Gods of Egypt was good (despite the utter lack of melanin in the movie, hate white washed movies) this gave me those vibes and I just devoured it. I loved Anubis and Violet’s relationship, and loved the banter between brother and sister and the other side characters. It surprised me how much I enjoyed the historical aspect of this because usually I’m not of fan but this one just blew me away.
LOVED LOVED LOVED.
I’m truly hoping the next has to do with Bast (IYKYK) 🖤🖤🖤🖤
This was a freaking gem to read. As a huge The Mummy fan and Gods of Egypt was good (despite the utter lack of melanin in the movie, hate white washed movies) this gave me those vibes and I just devoured it. I loved Anubis and Violet’s relationship, and loved the banter between brother and sister and the other side characters. It surprised me how much I enjoyed the historical aspect of this because usually I’m not of fan but this one just blew me away.
LOVED LOVED LOVED.
I’m truly hoping the next has to do with Bast (IYKYK) 🖤🖤🖤🖤
November 3, 2024
Well, that was interesting. It’s something very new for me, as I usually read human romance. I decided to read this book, because Anubis used to be my biggest crush in childhood. I hoped for something exciting and spicy, and I was not disappointed. Definitely one of the best books I’ve read this year. I’m obsessed with how protective and sweet he is, perfect book boyfriend. I will definitely recommend this book to everyone I know.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 12, 2024
Let's be honest, the beautiful cover is what drew me in first.
But, the book didn't disappoint.
This is the first installment of this love story set in Cairo and it has all the beauty of historical fantasy.
I really enjoyed the slow burn romance and really hope we het to see a bit more of Anubis's depth in the next book.
I recommend this if you love:
🖤 monster romance
🖤 slow burn
🖤 height difference
Thank you Booksprout for the ARC.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
But, the book didn't disappoint.
This is the first installment of this love story set in Cairo and it has all the beauty of historical fantasy.
I really enjoyed the slow burn romance and really hope we het to see a bit more of Anubis's depth in the next book.
I recommend this if you love:
🖤 monster romance
🖤 slow burn
🖤 height difference
Thank you Booksprout for the ARC.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 23, 2024
If I had to describe this book, I would say it was a blend of mythology and the Victorian Era. Warm memories of her mother and dreams she's had all her life take her to Egypt where her life will never be the same. Def some steamy scenes and I think this story would be like nothing you've read, regardless of your favorite genre. Very interesting, imaginative, and the author certainly did her research. I would rate this story 4.5 stars and rounded up. I was gifted with an ARC and wanted to post my thoughts.
August 3, 2024
I pick up this book and didn’t put it down until it was finished. I love Khalid and Violet! They have this attraction to one another that made the story so good. Khalid/Anubis is the god of dead who decided his heart was useless for him to keep so he has it removed out of his body and hides it only for it to travel across the world into young Violet hands. I don’t want to spoil it too much.
Once you start the book it’s hard to put it down. So be warned.
Once you start the book it’s hard to put it down. So be warned.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 12, 2024
Violet is a frisky fun character. She has lead a sheltered life thanks to her male relations but she is still herself. She gets to do what she has wanted to do with a bodyguard. The bodyguard turns out to be way more than she thought she would get. Khalid is not just a bodyguard but an immortal. He protects her as he gives off vibes from dreams she has had since her childhood.
This sets off a sexual tension that reaches out through the pages to keep you engaged in the book.
This sets off a sexual tension that reaches out through the pages to keep you engaged in the book.
October 31, 2024
This book was phenomenal. Truly, I could not put it down. I love the spicy swoony romance meets Egyptian gods. This was a great read. I love a fiery, curious, and brave FMC. Plus Khalid/Anubis are so hot and protective, I was smitten immediately. If you've always loved "The Mummy" and wish there was more romance plus spice. Then this is the book for you....and you won't be disappointed. 👍🏽❤️😁.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 9, 2024
I could not stop squealing while reading this book. I'm not one for a bodyguard romance but oh my gosh this twist was everything. I adore Egyptian mythology and it never gets enough love, seeing that Anubis is the one getting that love is also so fun. He's the god of death and he needs it just as much as Violet does!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 2, 2025
Can this be a 6 star rating? Because for me it is!! This book was my Halloween book. Oh man I loved it! Anything to do with deities is my Roman Empire! The yearning and banter were just chefs kiss but the plot that brought it all together was a fun one! The possessiveness of Khalid/ Anubis is what I strive to have! Ugghhh to be violet even if it was for a day! I cannot wait to see what else this author blesses us with! Definitely read this one! Will forever recommend to my Gods/ monster lovers!
August 5, 2024
I am a huge Mummy fan and was instantly drawn to this book because of it. I am so glad I did because it was fantastic. I felt like I was in Cairo in 1933. The descriptions, the characters, the storyline, all wonderful. I highly recommend this book and am hoping that there is another book in the series soon! I need more!
August 7, 2024
I have recently been very into Egyptian Gods and Goddesses and I am eager to learn more about them. This book, although fictional provides some insight into the nature of a few of the Egyptian deities.
The book was a quick and fun read. The story was easy to follow, but I felt like some parts of the story could have been expounded a bit more. Overall pretty decent.
The book was a quick and fun read. The story was easy to follow, but I felt like some parts of the story could have been expounded a bit more. Overall pretty decent.
November 3, 2024
I was lured by that gorgeous Art Nouveau cover. The premise of Fantasy Hist Rom was different but the execution sadly was not satisfying.
I'm always annoyed when superior creatures that are millennium old appear clueless like 22 yo gentlemen... Especially if they have been in contact with man kind for so long. The spice was a 1.5/5.
I'm always annoyed when superior creatures that are millennium old appear clueless like 22 yo gentlemen... Especially if they have been in contact with man kind for so long. The spice was a 1.5/5.
November 6, 2024
5/5 stars. I always appreciate something new in books like these. First book I've seen concentrated in Egyptian Gods, it's definitely a good change for me. The couple was likable and it provided such a good fresh everything. I love the time period, the setting, the characters and everything in between.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 19, 2024
I received this as an ARC after seeing the gorgeous cover. This is an honest review.
I feel like this book needed to be longer. It needed more time to explore the main characters more, especially the dynamic between the gods.
Overall, 3.5 stars.
If you've read enough fanfiction the scene with Anubis in his god form won't be too shocking, but thoughts and prayers for the rest you 😆
I feel like this book needed to be longer. It needed more time to explore the main characters more, especially the dynamic between the gods.
Overall, 3.5 stars.
If you've read enough fanfiction the scene with Anubis in his god form won't be too shocking, but thoughts and prayers for the rest you 😆
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 24, 2024
Such a wonderful book! I loved it and couldn't put it down! Devoured each and every word and will definitely check out more works by Blacketer.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 11, 2024
Holy smokes!! This book is amazing!!!! I’m so glad I stumbled upon it!!! Totally giving me The mummy vibes and I’m loving it!!! The drama, the twists and turns and the spice is perfect I can’t wait to see what’s next!!!!
December 17, 2024
I really enjoyed this adventure!
There is action, mystery, danger, some humor, handsome heroes, heroines with sass, and Egyptian mythology. I really enjoyed this author's storytelling and cook forward to more about these characters when she releases more.
There is action, mystery, danger, some humor, handsome heroes, heroines with sass, and Egyptian mythology. I really enjoyed this author's storytelling and cook forward to more about these characters when she releases more.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews