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Devious Realms #1
Taint the Soul
Noah Araya has a single goal—save up enough and leave the Holy Empire before his secrets land him in jail. So when his superior asks him to assist in hosting a delegation from Asia, he can't say no. After all, having one of the most influential Church Ministers owe you is an advantage he can't pass on.
But forces beyond his control place him in the midst of a conflict between angels and demons when he meets a charming diplomat during the Gala, who has secrets of his own. He fuels Noah's hidden desires, showing him what he could have if he agrees to strike a deal with a demon.
As Noah makes his choice and enters the supernatural world, there is only one rule he must follow to remain part of it: never fall in love with something that might not be human.
Taint the Soul is a paranormal M/M romance about an artist who will stop at nothing to achieve his dreams in a world where good and evil might not be what they seem. It features a slightly altered Earth and history, dark themes, forbidden love, obsession, fated mates, morally gray decisions, angels, demons, a pinch of dystopia and an intriguing plot with a steamy romance. It is Book 1 in the Devious Realms series, can be read as a standalone, and ends with a HEA.
But forces beyond his control place him in the midst of a conflict between angels and demons when he meets a charming diplomat during the Gala, who has secrets of his own. He fuels Noah's hidden desires, showing him what he could have if he agrees to strike a deal with a demon.
As Noah makes his choice and enters the supernatural world, there is only one rule he must follow to remain part of it: never fall in love with something that might not be human.
Taint the Soul is a paranormal M/M romance about an artist who will stop at nothing to achieve his dreams in a world where good and evil might not be what they seem. It features a slightly altered Earth and history, dark themes, forbidden love, obsession, fated mates, morally gray decisions, angels, demons, a pinch of dystopia and an intriguing plot with a steamy romance. It is Book 1 in the Devious Realms series, can be read as a standalone, and ends with a HEA.
404 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 26, 2024
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June 25, 2024DNF @30%, no rating
This book, the first third of it at least, was an exercise in frustration.
There's no world building at all. We're thrown into the middle of a "Holy Empire" in Europe where the Church rules/controls everything. But it's only 2034, so ten years from now. If any place is in danger of establishing a theocracy in the next decade, it's the U.S. There were mentions of an American Federation and an Asian Federation, but there was no context for any of this.
The story feels very YA. The MC is 25 but seems much younger, like a teenager vs. grown man.
There's a super icky masturbation scene in the second chapter. I hate masturbation scenes anyway, but this one comes out of nowhere, with the MC masturbating to images of a demon he draws.
Every single woman is a crazy bitch: manipulative, conniving, and a sexual predator.
I am just not liking anything about this story. Maybe it gets better, but I can't do 300 plus pages of this.
This book, the first third of it at least, was an exercise in frustration.
There's no world building at all. We're thrown into the middle of a "Holy Empire" in Europe where the Church rules/controls everything. But it's only 2034, so ten years from now. If any place is in danger of establishing a theocracy in the next decade, it's the U.S. There were mentions of an American Federation and an Asian Federation, but there was no context for any of this.
The story feels very YA. The MC is 25 but seems much younger, like a teenager vs. grown man.
There's a super icky masturbation scene in the second chapter. I hate masturbation scenes anyway, but this one comes out of nowhere, with the MC masturbating to images of a demon he draws.
Every single woman is a crazy bitch: manipulative, conniving, and a sexual predator.
I am just not liking anything about this story. Maybe it gets better, but I can't do 300 plus pages of this.
April 13, 2024
“Taint the Soul,” by J. F. Miev
Noah is trying to save enough money to finally leave the Holy Empire before his secrets are revealed. Once he agreed to host a delegation from Asia, he meets the man of his dreams and it led to his life taking a mysterious turn.
I really liked this book. The religious zealot and demons’ aspect was interesting. My favorite part of the book is the two main characters and their relationship, it kept me at the edge of my seat. I loved how a bunch of the book takes place in Seoul. I will definitely be reading more books by J. F. Miev. 4 out of 5 stars.
-Demons
-Religion
-M/M
-Seoul
Thank you for the ARC, Netgalley.
Noah is trying to save enough money to finally leave the Holy Empire before his secrets are revealed. Once he agreed to host a delegation from Asia, he meets the man of his dreams and it led to his life taking a mysterious turn.
I really liked this book. The religious zealot and demons’ aspect was interesting. My favorite part of the book is the two main characters and their relationship, it kept me at the edge of my seat. I loved how a bunch of the book takes place in Seoul. I will definitely be reading more books by J. F. Miev. 4 out of 5 stars.
-Demons
-Religion
-M/M
-Seoul
Thank you for the ARC, Netgalley.
April 24, 2024
This story kept me guessing with the twists and turns, and I was totally shocked by the unpredictable ending. It has a very in-depth plot and a large cast of intriguing characters where there is a lot going on behind the scenes. The main characters that the story focuses on, Noah and Reign, are well-written and likable and the chemistry between them is really enjoyable to watch unfold. Great balance between steam and plot. If you like plot-driven stories with very expansive world building, you will definitely enjoy this one!
May 2, 2024
He needs to get away from it all as his secret could ruin his life. He is asked to help when they arrive but it will not go as well as he expects. They have secrets of their own and he feels an attraction to them. How will it go? Will both of their secrets ruin their future? How will they get on? See if they can have a happy ending
May 12, 2024
Great book.
This was an Awesome book. I just couldn't , put it down. Definitely, reading more. Can't Wait, for the next book.
This was an Awesome book. I just couldn't , put it down. Definitely, reading more. Can't Wait, for the next book.
May 8, 2024
The book definitely had a slow start. Getting to know the character and his life is a must, just thought it took a little to long to get there.
Otherwise it was a good read while I was sitting around.
Otherwise it was a good read while I was sitting around.
May 4, 2024
This book was amazing, sexy, and with so much more. The underline of the story made me cry. Brought many question up in my head. I can’t wait to read more!
April 27, 2024
I can't believe this is the author's debut novel, because the writing and world-building is superb!
Noah Araya lives a pretty simple life. He just wants to save up enough money so he can escape the oppressive Holy Empire and be free to live out his life the way he pleases. He has hallucinations about a hot, red-skinned demon that visits him almost every day and that he's completely obsessed with. Imagine his surprise when he meets a charming diplomat during a Gala who looks just like his secret obsession, minus the red skin. Once he finds out that his demon is actually not a hallucination but very real and that he's appeared to fulfill Noah's deepest wish, Noah can't help but make a deal with the devil.
It took me a bit to really get into the book, because Noah and Reign really only get it going at around 30%. And tbh I felt like there should have been more scenes between the two of them, more interaction in general. Some scenes were told instead of shown, even though it would have been such a nice opportunity for building and deepening the connection between the characters. Like I mentioned, the world building was superb but I I wanted more scenes between the MCs. I would have also loved to read more about Reign's feelings and struggles. We don't really find out about it until the end. We got a lot of other POVs when I wish it would have focused a bit more on our MCs. Although I do have to admit, I'm quite curious about Gabriel, Jaoel and Asmodeus. I love a good angels vs. demons trope, so it'll be fun to see where the author takes this next.
The last third of the book picked up in angstiness, so naturally I devoured it and this is also where the author's writing truly shines. It was fun yet gut wrenching reading about Noah's slow descent into madness because of his heartbreak. Teresa was such a pest, omg I hated her and I'm so glad she got what she had coming. I'm happy about the HEA for our MCs and I look forward to the next book in the series.
#ARC generously provided by GRR in return for an honest review
Noah Araya lives a pretty simple life. He just wants to save up enough money so he can escape the oppressive Holy Empire and be free to live out his life the way he pleases. He has hallucinations about a hot, red-skinned demon that visits him almost every day and that he's completely obsessed with. Imagine his surprise when he meets a charming diplomat during a Gala who looks just like his secret obsession, minus the red skin. Once he finds out that his demon is actually not a hallucination but very real and that he's appeared to fulfill Noah's deepest wish, Noah can't help but make a deal with the devil.
It took me a bit to really get into the book, because Noah and Reign really only get it going at around 30%. And tbh I felt like there should have been more scenes between the two of them, more interaction in general. Some scenes were told instead of shown, even though it would have been such a nice opportunity for building and deepening the connection between the characters. Like I mentioned, the world building was superb but I I wanted more scenes between the MCs. I would have also loved to read more about Reign's feelings and struggles. We don't really find out about it until the end. We got a lot of other POVs when I wish it would have focused a bit more on our MCs. Although I do have to admit, I'm quite curious about Gabriel, Jaoel and Asmodeus. I love a good angels vs. demons trope, so it'll be fun to see where the author takes this next.
The last third of the book picked up in angstiness, so naturally I devoured it and this is also where the author's writing truly shines. It was fun yet gut wrenching reading about Noah's slow descent into madness because of his heartbreak. Teresa was such a pest, omg I hated her and I'm so glad she got what she had coming. I'm happy about the HEA for our MCs and I look forward to the next book in the series.
#ARC generously provided by GRR in return for an honest review
April 29, 2024
2.5 stars
The concept is strong, but the delivery was lacking for me. This is not a plot driven book, as another review led me to believe. We spent most of the book inside behead of one character with occasional forays to another POV. There was quite a bit of internal dialogue but comparatively little external dialogue. The internal dialogue was often repetitive and tended to tell instead of show, and thus left me feeling disconnected from the storyline. The story was bogged down with few significant plot points. Most of the interactions were repetitive, adding little value. The plot was thin and seemed to barely move and was often illogical. It was hard to suspend disbelief when the bad guys are supposedly so cunning but they can't see through the mc's mediocre attempts to disguise or lie about what he is doing. I'm also concerned that I saw no likable female characters - they are all lecherous, manipulating, stupid, and/or entitled. I'm not denying that women can be this way, but think the complete lack of a decent woman in this story bursting with female side characters is a problem.
Finally, this book could have benefited from more editing. There were frequent cases where he wrong word was used in an idiom, or you could see where the author started the sentence two different ways and didn't clean up whichever version was meant to be discarded. The tense would switch up in ways that were jarring, and then we got POVs that really could have been cut from the book because they don't add notably to the plot. These issues were frequent enough to effect my enjoyment.
I left the book feeling like the concept has verve but the dialogue, romance, characterS, and plot need development.
The concept is strong, but the delivery was lacking for me. This is not a plot driven book, as another review led me to believe. We spent most of the book inside behead of one character with occasional forays to another POV. There was quite a bit of internal dialogue but comparatively little external dialogue. The internal dialogue was often repetitive and tended to tell instead of show, and thus left me feeling disconnected from the storyline. The story was bogged down with few significant plot points. Most of the interactions were repetitive, adding little value. The plot was thin and seemed to barely move and was often illogical. It was hard to suspend disbelief when the bad guys are supposedly so cunning but they can't see through the mc's mediocre attempts to disguise or lie about what he is doing. I'm also concerned that I saw no likable female characters - they are all lecherous, manipulating, stupid, and/or entitled. I'm not denying that women can be this way, but think the complete lack of a decent woman in this story bursting with female side characters is a problem.
Finally, this book could have benefited from more editing. There were frequent cases where he wrong word was used in an idiom, or you could see where the author started the sentence two different ways and didn't clean up whichever version was meant to be discarded. The tense would switch up in ways that were jarring, and then we got POVs that really could have been cut from the book because they don't add notably to the plot. These issues were frequent enough to effect my enjoyment.
I left the book feeling like the concept has verve but the dialogue, romance, characterS, and plot need development.
April 30, 2024
J.F. Miev’s Taint the Soul is a story that immediately grabbed my attention. The list of included elements – altered history, dark themes, forbidden love, obsession, fated mates, morally grey decisions, angels, demons, and dystopia – ticked box after box on things that grab my attention. Unfortunately, I struggled with the story from early in.
I think a big part of why I struggled at first was because I wanted to understand the world better. This did change as the story progressed, but it lasted for much longer than I would have liked. Add in the fact that it took a long time for the plot to feel like it was moving, and I spent much of the book feeling like I was drifting through something – something I did not understand. While I am sure many people will be intrigued by the elements early in the book, I never came to enjoy them. In fact, I was often distracted by strange word choices and grammar that pulled me out of the story, making it ever harder for me to care about what was happening. While things did improve when the story started to move, it was not enough to make up for my initial disinterest. I was too locked into being distracted whenever things were repetitive and when things were telling instead of showing (this is largely a me issue, because when I am locked into this it is hard to break, but it is possible to break this when the story grabs me hard enough, which this failed to do).
All in all, Taint the Soul was an interesting idea that initially appealed to me, yet the story failed to tick my boxes in the anticipated way. I am sure it will work for many, but it did not work for me.
I think a big part of why I struggled at first was because I wanted to understand the world better. This did change as the story progressed, but it lasted for much longer than I would have liked. Add in the fact that it took a long time for the plot to feel like it was moving, and I spent much of the book feeling like I was drifting through something – something I did not understand. While I am sure many people will be intrigued by the elements early in the book, I never came to enjoy them. In fact, I was often distracted by strange word choices and grammar that pulled me out of the story, making it ever harder for me to care about what was happening. While things did improve when the story started to move, it was not enough to make up for my initial disinterest. I was too locked into being distracted whenever things were repetitive and when things were telling instead of showing (this is largely a me issue, because when I am locked into this it is hard to break, but it is possible to break this when the story grabs me hard enough, which this failed to do).
All in all, Taint the Soul was an interesting idea that initially appealed to me, yet the story failed to tick my boxes in the anticipated way. I am sure it will work for many, but it did not work for me.
April 8, 2024
“I forgive you, Reign, because I would’ve done the same thing in your place. I would’ve sacrificed everything for the chance to be with you.”
Wow, High Five! To the author. Thank You for this story :) I am so happy I got to read this story full of angels, demons, high heat and forbidden love. This was a new to me author and I look forward to reading more from this series as well from the author.
This was a slower read for me that made me pause. It has great world building with a great cast of characters. I was team demons all the way. Reign and Noah’s relationship was so sweet and spicy and I felt like I was experiencing everything with them. The twists and turns we are given throughout the book keep it entertaining and kept me on the edge of my seat. I am so happy with the hard earned HEA ending…it is worth sticking around for.
I will be honest that the story felt a bit bogged down in some places to me. I had to take breaks and come back to it. I was happy I stuck with it and highly recommend it.
Fellow Mood Readers and those with triggers : High Heat, suicide attempt, death, violence, religious and controversial themes, hard earned HEA
*Paranormal Romance
*Forbidden love
*Angels & Demons
Wow, High Five! To the author. Thank You for this story :) I am so happy I got to read this story full of angels, demons, high heat and forbidden love. This was a new to me author and I look forward to reading more from this series as well from the author.
This was a slower read for me that made me pause. It has great world building with a great cast of characters. I was team demons all the way. Reign and Noah’s relationship was so sweet and spicy and I felt like I was experiencing everything with them. The twists and turns we are given throughout the book keep it entertaining and kept me on the edge of my seat. I am so happy with the hard earned HEA ending…it is worth sticking around for.
I will be honest that the story felt a bit bogged down in some places to me. I had to take breaks and come back to it. I was happy I stuck with it and highly recommend it.
Fellow Mood Readers and those with triggers : High Heat, suicide attempt, death, violence, religious and controversial themes, hard earned HEA
*Paranormal Romance
*Forbidden love
*Angels & Demons
May 2, 2024
Noah Araya cannot stand living in the Holy Empire. His goal is to save up enough money to escape, before he is discovered doing secret things. When he is asked to help host the delegation from Asia, he jumps on the chance, hoping to find a way to either get more money or escape. He meets a charming representative, Reign Lennox, and devises a way to work with him. Reign offers him a chance for a deal with a demon. He can have a wish but love cannot enter into the equation.
J.F. Miev has created a fascinating world. After WW3 ended, Europe became the Holy Empire, where the church decides your life. Art is frowned upon and homosexuality is not an option. Noah is both of these. Reign offers him at a chance to live his life as desired but must make a deal with the demon. The story takes a few surprising turns and you cannot help but want to keep reading to find out what happens next. The ending was totally unexpected but did explain more than a few things. This series promises to be a unique and captivating series and each one will be a standalone story. I look forward to more set in this world.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and this is my unbiased review.
J.F. Miev has created a fascinating world. After WW3 ended, Europe became the Holy Empire, where the church decides your life. Art is frowned upon and homosexuality is not an option. Noah is both of these. Reign offers him at a chance to live his life as desired but must make a deal with the demon. The story takes a few surprising turns and you cannot help but want to keep reading to find out what happens next. The ending was totally unexpected but did explain more than a few things. This series promises to be a unique and captivating series and each one will be a standalone story. I look forward to more set in this world.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and this is my unbiased review.
May 3, 2024
Taint the Soul is part of the Devious Realms Series. I wasn't really sure how this book was going to go. This was a story of intrigue and mystery. As I was reading I thought the story was going to go one way, just for it to go another. I honestly wasn't sure how this book was going to end but I am glad I stuck with it as it ended very well. It definitely had a lot of world building involved with it, which is why it was a bit of a slow read. If you can stick it out it is definitely worth it. Please be aware there is a lot of highly religious content in this book.
Noah has to hide who he truly is. He can't embrace how he wants to live his life. He finally finds a way to do this but there is a lot of deceit involved for this to be successful. He meets Reign who is able to help him embrace who he truly is and who he was truly meant to be. At first I really liked the relationship between these two. They were nice and spicy together. But then something happens which draws them apart and I wasn't really sure how this was going to go. When you finally discover the needs for all the secrets you realize this was a great love story between two people who many didn't think could or should be together.
Noah has to hide who he truly is. He can't embrace how he wants to live his life. He finally finds a way to do this but there is a lot of deceit involved for this to be successful. He meets Reign who is able to help him embrace who he truly is and who he was truly meant to be. At first I really liked the relationship between these two. They were nice and spicy together. But then something happens which draws them apart and I wasn't really sure how this was going to go. When you finally discover the needs for all the secrets you realize this was a great love story between two people who many didn't think could or should be together.
April 28, 2024
It starts a little slow, but I guess it was needed to get introduced to Noah and his backstory. (If you’re curious about Reign’s story, go read the free proloque; it was the reason I pre-ordered this book.)
I was a little disappointed that Noah was the main character, but after reading this book I understand why, and I actually prefer it like this! Noah is a very likeable and passionate character looking for a way out of this…toxic and suppressed world he’s living in. Seeing him grow and going through all the emotions, especially when he snaps, was totally worth it. I was afraid things would get cheesy/predictable, so I really liked how things turned out in the end. That ending was so unpredictable, and I love it! I have so many questions now….
I do hope for some action-packed scenes in the next book, and also more of the Demon Realm and its demons. It’s very intriguing, more than the Angel Realm honestly. Also looking forward to this ‘new era’, and hopefully, Noah will continue painting.
I was a little disappointed that Noah was the main character, but after reading this book I understand why, and I actually prefer it like this! Noah is a very likeable and passionate character looking for a way out of this…toxic and suppressed world he’s living in. Seeing him grow and going through all the emotions, especially when he snaps, was totally worth it. I was afraid things would get cheesy/predictable, so I really liked how things turned out in the end. That ending was so unpredictable, and I love it! I have so many questions now….
I do hope for some action-packed scenes in the next book, and also more of the Demon Realm and its demons. It’s very intriguing, more than the Angel Realm honestly. Also looking forward to this ‘new era’, and hopefully, Noah will continue painting.
April 10, 2024
“I forgive you, Reign, because I would’ve done the same thing in your place. I would’ve sacrificed everything for the chance to be with you.”
**Swoon***!!!! One of many favorite quotes from the book! This was an amazing read! I fell in love with the world and characters. The characters alone will grab your and thrust you into the book and make you feel like you are truly living in that moment.
As far as the book starting off….it was difficult for me. I won’t lie. I am a 36yr old mom of 7!.. I need the hot and heavy spicy and give it to me quick! Lol …this is a slow burn read starting off. It takes it a minute to pick up. That’s my only complaint! After it picked up, I couldn’t put it down. It will suck you in…**Wink Wink**
But the sweet, loving and Spicy relationship between Reign and Noah made me fall for this book. Oh… and the Demons and Angels?!?!!!!! Yes please! I advise you to read this book if you don’t mind a few triggers, with a lot of love and Spice!
**Swoon***!!!! One of many favorite quotes from the book! This was an amazing read! I fell in love with the world and characters. The characters alone will grab your and thrust you into the book and make you feel like you are truly living in that moment.
As far as the book starting off….it was difficult for me. I won’t lie. I am a 36yr old mom of 7!.. I need the hot and heavy spicy and give it to me quick! Lol …this is a slow burn read starting off. It takes it a minute to pick up. That’s my only complaint! After it picked up, I couldn’t put it down. It will suck you in…**Wink Wink**
But the sweet, loving and Spicy relationship between Reign and Noah made me fall for this book. Oh… and the Demons and Angels?!?!!!!! Yes please! I advise you to read this book if you don’t mind a few triggers, with a lot of love and Spice!
April 15, 2024
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
There were alot of spelling mistakes and grammatical errors which I have highlighted along the way. That aside I really enjoyed this book. I'm not always a fan of 3rd person but I definitely feel like this was needed for this book.
There are quite alot of characters but it has been written in a way that you don't lose track of who is who.
I loved Reign and Noah and despised Teresa 😅 I love how Noah pushed himself to get what he wanted and that it wasn't his wish from Reign as he could do it himself.
Without spoiling anything, you can see Noah's anger building throughout the book but I did not see the beginning of the end coming and it took me off guard in a good way!
It really makes you think about what you know about heaven and hell.
I'm desperate to know who the final characters were so will be on the look out for any more books in the universe!
There were alot of spelling mistakes and grammatical errors which I have highlighted along the way. That aside I really enjoyed this book. I'm not always a fan of 3rd person but I definitely feel like this was needed for this book.
There are quite alot of characters but it has been written in a way that you don't lose track of who is who.
I loved Reign and Noah and despised Teresa 😅 I love how Noah pushed himself to get what he wanted and that it wasn't his wish from Reign as he could do it himself.
Without spoiling anything, you can see Noah's anger building throughout the book but I did not see the beginning of the end coming and it took me off guard in a good way!
It really makes you think about what you know about heaven and hell.
I'm desperate to know who the final characters were so will be on the look out for any more books in the universe!
April 19, 2024
This is a paranormal M/M romance with angels, demons, and humans. Noah is a human who has secrets. Reign is a demon who strikes a deal with Noah. There are a lot of religious viewpoints including homophobia. It’s not too long of a book at around 400 pages, but it took me a while to read it. There is a lot of world building and the story was slow moving at times. I found myself putting it down in the first half of the book. There is a third act break up and when it happens, it feels like a completely different book. The story turns dark and depressing, but there’s a reason for it! The HEA is very hard earned, but it happens!
There was something off about the steamy scenes for me. I love a lot of heat but it seemed like some descriptions were missing from the scenes. Maybe it’s just my tastes though. Overall a good book.
I received a copy of this book from GRR and this is my honest review.
There was something off about the steamy scenes for me. I love a lot of heat but it seemed like some descriptions were missing from the scenes. Maybe it’s just my tastes though. Overall a good book.
I received a copy of this book from GRR and this is my honest review.
April 25, 2024
What a FANTASTIC story!
I can't believe this is a debut and I am so happy this is going to be a series because this world has so much potential.
There are so many things I loved.
The background world is so unique, original, a mix of dystopian and fantasy, a diplomatic rivality between the European Church lead by God himself and the free Asian continent, Angels, Demons lead by Lucifer.
And in the middle of this, Noah, a gay man who lives in the Holy Empire and can't reveal his true desires, and he falls in love with a Demon.. And in the beginning he looks like an innocent young man, but he soon shows he's extremely smart, able to deceive everyone to obtain what he wants and he then becomes darker and darker. The pull between Noah and Reign is too strong and they will need to fight literally everyone from God to Lucifer to be together..
FANTASTIC. I already can't wait to read the next book in the series and more by the author.
I can't believe this is a debut and I am so happy this is going to be a series because this world has so much potential.
There are so many things I loved.
The background world is so unique, original, a mix of dystopian and fantasy, a diplomatic rivality between the European Church lead by God himself and the free Asian continent, Angels, Demons lead by Lucifer.
And in the middle of this, Noah, a gay man who lives in the Holy Empire and can't reveal his true desires, and he falls in love with a Demon.. And in the beginning he looks like an innocent young man, but he soon shows he's extremely smart, able to deceive everyone to obtain what he wants and he then becomes darker and darker. The pull between Noah and Reign is too strong and they will need to fight literally everyone from God to Lucifer to be together..
FANTASTIC. I already can't wait to read the next book in the series and more by the author.
April 28, 2024
5/5 sexy demonic paintings
This book had A LOT of information, buildup, smexy times, religious drama, demons/ angels, lust to love and heartbreak.
*Fated mates * Forbidden love *Dystopian separated country vibes * War between angels/demons/humans * deep storyline then originally thought.
This book was heavy with dystopian vibes, but it seems our main character Noah is the only one to feel it. Everyone around him is very cheery and happy in life, but because he harbors a secret that goes against his government.... he feels vulnerable.
the first half of the book makes you question if Noah is hallucinating the person he keeps painting. Until he meets someone who confirms he isn't hallucinating.
Tension and constant flirting keep Noah on edge with the new Seoul diplomat that strangely resembles his sexy demon dream man in his paintings.
Is lust transforming into love enough to keep Noah afloat when he wants to escape his holy prison state or will the tables be turned on him.
This book contains a lot of conflict between Noah and everyone in the Holy empire and his desire to escape so he can't be arrested or killed for his sexual preference. But come to find out there is a much deeper battle going on that most civilians can't see, Demons Vs Angels.
This book had me filled with so much hope and at the same time it broke my heart for several chapters. It felt as if Noah was a pawn in a game he didn't want to be in and he couldn't control. And that is exactly what the middle to end of the book was. It broke me down but it slowly started building me back up.
This book had A LOT of information, buildup, smexy times, religious drama, demons/ angels, lust to love and heartbreak.
*Fated mates * Forbidden love *Dystopian separated country vibes * War between angels/demons/humans * deep storyline then originally thought.
This book was heavy with dystopian vibes, but it seems our main character Noah is the only one to feel it. Everyone around him is very cheery and happy in life, but because he harbors a secret that goes against his government.... he feels vulnerable.
the first half of the book makes you question if Noah is hallucinating the person he keeps painting. Until he meets someone who confirms he isn't hallucinating.
Tension and constant flirting keep Noah on edge with the new Seoul diplomat that strangely resembles his sexy demon dream man in his paintings.
Is lust transforming into love enough to keep Noah afloat when he wants to escape his holy prison state or will the tables be turned on him.
This book contains a lot of conflict between Noah and everyone in the Holy empire and his desire to escape so he can't be arrested or killed for his sexual preference. But come to find out there is a much deeper battle going on that most civilians can't see, Demons Vs Angels.
This book had me filled with so much hope and at the same time it broke my heart for several chapters. It felt as if Noah was a pawn in a game he didn't want to be in and he couldn't control. And that is exactly what the middle to end of the book was. It broke me down but it slowly started building me back up.
May 7, 2024
This is an intriguing universe that J.F. Miev has built. After World War III ended, Europe transformed into the Holy Empire, a place where life or death is decided by the church. Both homosexuality and artistic expression are socially stigmatized. All three describe Noah. A opportunity to live his life as he desires is offered to him by Reign, but he must first make a bargain with the devil. Unexpected twists and turns keep you turning the pages, eager to discover what happens next. Even though it was completely unexpected, the ending did clarify a lot of things. Each book in the series will stand on its own, but together they promise to be an interesting and original read. This world has me eagerly awaiting further installments.I received a copy of this book from BookSirens, and this is my honest review.
April 14, 2024
At first I was unsure about reading "Taint the Soul" because of the religious aspect. I'm not a very religious person, and usually steer well away. Honestly I did not even read the blurb. The cover caught my eye and I decided I had to read it. Beautiful cover.
The spice is a 4/5, very descriptive as well.
I absolutely adored Noah, he has such a passion for life. He just happens to be stuck in the wrong place for it.
Favorite charaters
*Noah
*Reign
*Barrbatos
Overall this was a very good read and I recommend it to all M/M lovers.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The spice is a 4/5, very descriptive as well.
I absolutely adored Noah, he has such a passion for life. He just happens to be stuck in the wrong place for it.
Favorite charaters
*Noah
*Reign
*Barrbatos
Overall this was a very good read and I recommend it to all M/M lovers.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 26, 2024
I really enjoyed this read….I absolutely love books with angels & demons and really don’t read enough of them. I will admit that it took me a little while to get into fully, but when I did, I did not want to put it down. Noah and Reigns relationship just made me want to eeeeeeek both with the ‘swoon-i-ness’ and the spice. This story took you on a real rollercoaster…I laughed, I cried and I shouted. The plot was unique, the character development was done really well and there was enough world building. All in all this was a very well written and executed book. I can’t wait to see what else Miev writes in this series. Would recommend.
May 8, 2024
Overall this wasn’t a bad read. It is 3rd person POV, which I’m not crazy about. There’s also some switching of character POV that kind of threw me off because they’re not the main characters and it took me a minute to figure out what was going on.
It had a lot of potential with the angels and demons and the whole paranormal thing, it just fell a little flat for me and I found myself skimming some.
The end I still don’t fully comprehend. Reign just left Noah, for quite awhile and Noah has to adjust to that and then suddenly he’s back and about to marry WHO? Then they end up back together and Reign is all “I couldn’t live without you” excuse me what?
It had a lot of potential with the angels and demons and the whole paranormal thing, it just fell a little flat for me and I found myself skimming some.
The end I still don’t fully comprehend. Reign just left Noah, for quite awhile and Noah has to adjust to that and then suddenly he’s back and about to marry WHO? Then they end up back together and Reign is all “I couldn’t live without you” excuse me what?
June 6, 2024
This is book #1 in the "Devious Realms" series and can be read as a stand-alone. This is a very plot driven story with some steam to keep you reading. This book has great world building. Apart from Noah and Reign ( your main characters) it has so many interesting and intriguing characters. I enjoyed this read alot. There were quite a few twist and turns that kept me guessing what was gonna happen next. And i loved that i couldnt predict what was going to happen. The ending of the book threw me for a loop in the best way. Never saw it ending like that. Great read.
Plot 5/5. Spice 3/5
Plot 5/5. Spice 3/5
April 4, 2024
“Hold me, one last time. As if you loved me.”
This was a solid 3.5 for me but I rounded to 4. I am not religious and although I took that into consideration before I accepted an advance reader copy I tried to not base my review on that part. There were times when I was lost with the characters and side religious references but the overall story was great and I had serious heart pangs a couple times where I truly felt the character’s sadness.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This was a solid 3.5 for me but I rounded to 4. I am not religious and although I took that into consideration before I accepted an advance reader copy I tried to not base my review on that part. There were times when I was lost with the characters and side religious references but the overall story was great and I had serious heart pangs a couple times where I truly felt the character’s sadness.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 27, 2024
This certainly wasn’t my usual genre of reading but I thoroughly enjoyed it. There was so much more to this story than just the romance between Noah and Reign.
A story of angels and demons and a war to take over the human realm.
Noah lives in the empire and is trapped there by the ultra religious teachings and leaders who rule with an iron fist. His journey to escape takes him down a path filled with twists and turns you wouldn’t expect but ultimately ends in a love story and a story of two people who would do anything for each other.
A story of angels and demons and a war to take over the human realm.
Noah lives in the empire and is trapped there by the ultra religious teachings and leaders who rule with an iron fist. His journey to escape takes him down a path filled with twists and turns you wouldn’t expect but ultimately ends in a love story and a story of two people who would do anything for each other.
April 30, 2024
This book was slow for me in the start I was only reading 20 at a time tell about 100 pages in then it picked up a bit, still a slower paced book. But the twist and turns start popping off. That character are wonderful the sweet and firey relationship between Noah and Regin make it worth the read.
It hit me in the feels I cried for Noah the pain the loss the suffering. Then the book get dark and I’m at home in the dark that’s my kinda story. Just when you think that should be it the ending came and my tears were wasted. I do love a not so happy happy ending.
It hit me in the feels I cried for Noah the pain the loss the suffering. Then the book get dark and I’m at home in the dark that’s my kinda story. Just when you think that should be it the ending came and my tears were wasted. I do love a not so happy happy ending.
May 2, 2024
I read the prologue Sanctioned before this which helped me understand this unique world and pulled me in so I was avidly awaiting this book which I absolutely loved. The story was a deep, well written with so many twists and turns it kept me hooked until the brilliant and unpredictable ending. So many great characters and the main characters Noah and Reign were so likeable and had such a great chemistry between them. I thoroughly enjoyed it and can't wait for the next in the series.
I received a free arc copy and this is my honest review
I received a free arc copy and this is my honest review
April 9, 2024
Thank you for the ARC of this book. 3.5 stars rounded up to 4. I enjoyed this story. This was my first story by this author. I wasn’t sure as there was the religious aspect to this but I think the author did a good job in creating this new world with heaven, hell and earth and how they all need to coexist. I loved the love stir between Noah and Reign. This was beautiful and I was so happy for their ending. I wasn’t sure they were going to get their HEA but they did and they deserved it!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 2, 2024
Seemed like a slow start. Total world building is sometimes hard for me to follow.
A fan of cartoons, I am amazed that every line has been drawn. While scenes in movies can rely on the things in the environment, nothing can be taken for granted in cartoons. World building is like that. Takes me a while to get into the headspace of an alien story. (I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.)
A fan of cartoons, I am amazed that every line has been drawn. While scenes in movies can rely on the things in the environment, nothing can be taken for granted in cartoons. World building is like that. Takes me a while to get into the headspace of an alien story. (I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.)
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