When Gods Cry : The Ani God Series

by Aliyah Golden

Dr. Willow Rogers wants nothing more than to save the lives of her patients and forget about her inner demons. While teaching medical students at a prestigious hospital, it's bombed, and Willow becomes the target of the attack. During an act of pure desperation, she takes the hand of an immortal to survive later learning that she is the next Medjay of Calijax and the fate of future immortal transitions rests in her hands.

Willow is forced to abandon the Hippocratic oath to survive an ancient world that broke away from Earth six millennia ago. She must fight the now disgraced god, Khenit-Amentiu, who wishes to take back the role of Medjay—the soul ferry for the Tribunal. It’s a race against the clock for Willow to complete the chain of command to prevent The Duat from collapsing. Should Willow fail, the Tribunal, a set of trials human souls endure to become immortal, will collapse, leaving the fate of all future transitions unknown.

When Gods Cry is a dark fantasy with Egyptian gods, toxic love, and an ending that will leave your heart shattered on the floor. Redemption isn’t found within these pages, and love doesn’t flourish.


This leaves one What happens When Gods Cry?

458 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 27, 2024

Reviews

[Dahlena Sampson PA · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so amazing to read and the Character Development was so mind blowing! I am a big fan of history and the Egyptian Mythology tied into this story was a fascinating read. There was a little bit of spice and a lot of plot. The world building and imagery created were so beautiful that I could see it in my mind. I am very much looking forward to the continuation of Willow and the intense change in her life.

[Christina Yau · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fora debut novel it was 4.5 🌟2 🌶️ for me! I loved the Egyptian mythology and history woven into the plot. I loved reading about Willow and the supporting characters are equally memorable. The world building and character development was great. There's drama, a little spice, non-stop action, magic, found family, and banter! There was definitely plot twists and a betrayal I never expected which made the book that more enjoyable! Ohhh and the song for each chapter is incredible and helps the vibes!

[Kristina Marquardt · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wild ride! I absolutely loved this story. Having a good base of mythology, plenty of drama, steamy scenes, and nonstop action, it was a hard book to put down. Great characters with excellent worldbuilding and an unpredictable ending. I highly recommend this 5-star read!

[alicialovestoread · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really really enjoyed this book!

I always love when there is a playlist along with the book, but this book has a song for every chapter, which I think is so cool!

This story is super unique and keeps you hooked. There are only a few spicy scenes, but they are very well done! This book has non-stop action and keeps you hooked from the start! There is a little bit of romance and the only I would really change is to have more of it but it's not a deal breaker for me.

All my fantasy girlies have got to check this out! You will not regret it!

I'm looking forward to book two! ♡

[Mrsz_reads13 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow!!! This was a great book. The plot and characters are amazing. Willow's life is in constant chaos. She has been mistreated by those closest to her. However life takes an interesting turn when she meets Tau. I was literally SMH a few times thinking this poor girl...

[Cheryl Sims · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is phenomenal and I loved every minute of it the non-stop action the characters overall this book was very very good I can't wait for more people to read this and just absolutely love it if I could give this book a hundred Stars I would

[Jessica Barnett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Omg I am obsessed! I can’t wait to get the second book for this series. I loved the Egyptian input. I can’t wait to reread this! Love the writing style. Will be look for more book from this author to come out!

[Rachael M · Rating 5 out of 5]

A completely immersive book with incredible world building. The characters were so fleshed out that they felt real. I thought the dialog was realistic and helped keep me in the story. The mythology aspects were well researched in my opinion and it was such a unique take!

[Kristy Mullins · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved the Egyptian mythology is this book! That gave it something “extra”! I enjoyed seeing Willow’s character development throughout the story! There was plenty of action and a few twists! The ending really got me! I look forward to book 2 in this series!!

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved Willow and how much she’s gone through. I can’t wait to see where the story goes!

[Emmabella626 · Rating 4 out of 5]

📖 When Gods Cry by Aliyah Golden

▪️My REVIEW RATING:
4⭐️ / 3🌶️

💭My THOUGHTS:
Golden’s first novel into the Ani Gods series is breath taking. The cover of the book drew me into it and as soon as I saw that there was a playlist I quickly got to work adding it to my to-do list.
When I finally sat down and got to read I felt such a kindling ship to the MFC Willow. Everything from her doubts in her profession to the commonsense and disbelief that she had in the world made me gravitate to her.
I enjoyed every step of the journey not to mention the betrayal and heartache she keeps enduring. I grew to love the family banter between her Epilson and Gamma. I rooted for her love and relationship with Tau (even through it is clearly toxic). I wanted her to be able to resolve her problems even before the big (I AM NOT SPOILING IT READ THE BOOK!!!) culture shock of her existence!
I love the deep dive that Golden created using the Egyptian Gods and Goddess and I truly loved her flow with every character as well.
Now there were times I had to go back and make sure I knew which God she was writing about—mind you I have not read mythology in years—but everything was worth it.
I cannot wait to see what she has in store next!!!!

[Strawberry Skies · Rating 4 out of 5]

This dark fantasy romance was a wild ride. There is so much here. I enjoyed predicting what was going on and who was betraying who. There are a lot of interesting visuals, certain parts even feel like a play. I felt like what I was picturing in my head couldn’t compare to what the author would be seeing. At times it was hard to fully appreciate the events happening, I felt like I needed time to breathe and reflect with the characters but the shoes never stopped dropping. The romance plot was very interesting, it makes me excited for book two. I’m very curious to see how the MC will grow/change (no spoilers but iykyk) and how that will factor into the relationship. There’s definitely a lot to take from here, but overall it was a chaotic, enthralling story with HIGH stakes and good spice! 3.5 Stars

[Asm · Rating 4 out of 5]

*I RECIEVED THIS AN AN ARC*

Who doesn't want to read a Dark Fantasy Book with spice based off of Egyptian Lore and Sleep Token Vibes?! I think at this point, we all know Daddy Vessel has my heart, so I immediately jumped at the opportunity to get my hands on When Gods Cry! As a lover of Egyptian mythology & and lore, this was everything my heart could hope for. The plot twists and Betrayal had me yelling! 😬😬 I need boom 2 asap!

4/5✨️
3/5🌶

*No HEA
*Egyptian Lore
*Touch Her & Die
*Dark Fantasy w/ Spice
*Plot Twists
*Chapters all themed to Metal Songs
*Heartbreaking Moments
*Funny Banter
*Found Family
*Magic

CHECK YOUR TRIGGER WARNINGS ⚠️

[Nicole Riggins · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was absolutely amazing!! I was obsessed with this book and never wanted to put it down!! Easily a 5 star read for me!! I highly recommend it! It was my first Egyptian Mythology type book and I was mind blown!! I loved the spice, coupled with a lot of plot and the world building was great!

I really can not wait for the next book and the continuation of Willow.

The drama, steamy scenes, and literally non stop action was chefs kiss!!

I am also beating myself in the foot because I thought this review posted back in June and apparently I saved it instead of posting, and to the amazing Author I am terribly sorry!!

[Amber Gill · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book several times and it just gets better everytime. I was a little worried going in about the third person but it didn’t disappoint it made me cry, it made me giggle and blush. I love the story line and I don’t want to give too much away but I genuinely feel like changing it to third person helped so much the story flowed it was beautiful and incredible and this is a warning it does not have a happily ever after. I can’t wait for the next book. Willows story is one that pulled me in and made me feel genuine emotions.

[Sammyreadsdarkthings · Rating 5 out of 5]

Egyptian Mythology?!?!?!?!

Sign me up!

I loved reading this so much. Aliyah does such a wonderful with world and character building. And this takes you on such a wild ride of emotions. I don't even know where to begin. I am blown away for this being her debut book. The storyline is just purely amazing. And the spice???? Left me speechless.

Please, go read this when it comes out June 28. But be warned, this does not end in a happy ever after.
Take that with what you will.

Thank you to the author for the eARC!

[Clary · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so impressed by this author's debut story. The mystery and suspense, the plot, the ancient Egyptian elements, the romance, the magic, and a full cast of amazing characters all comes together in a riveting tale of discovery, reincarnation, love, loss, grief and vengeance that had me chewing my nails and tapping my foot from beginning to end. The character development shown for all the Willow, Tau, and the rest of the group was amazing. With plenty of plot twists sprinkled with romance, this series promises to be epic. Can't wait for the next installment.

[LeAnn Hale · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was very interesting and very well written. I enjoyed reading the story of Dr Willow Rodgers and all the other characters that it comes with. Aliyah has a way of writing each character and their stories without sacrificing other stories. There was great banter between Willow and Tau. The other characters were just as witty. I had so many emotions during this book. I loved the Egyptian mythology and history in this book. Also, it helped that there is a glossary of each Egyptian gods and some of the history. The title of music at the front of each chapter was a nice touch!

[Anastasia Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Gods Cry: The Ani God Series is an absolute rollercoaster of a read! Aliyah masterfully weaves together ancient Egyptian mythology with a thrilling, action-packed plot. The intricate world-building is captivating, and the unexpected twists kept me guessing until the very end.

While the plot takes center stage, the intimate moments between characters are equally captivating. The spicy scenes are a welcome addition to the story, adding depth and passion to the relationships.

I'm eagerly awaiting the next installment to see where this epic adventure goes next!

[TheDistortedBliss · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you Aliyah Golden for the ARC.

2.5 stars
Spicy!

I was very much looking forward to this read.
I think it being written in third person omniscient is a big reason why I had a hard time.
Up to 28% of the book, I wanted to DNF. Once I got to the 30% mark it was easier to read, because I think I learned how this narrative worked.

I actually liked Willow, the FMC.
I have family members in the medical field, so I connected to Willow being a doctor.

But the other characters...I just...didn't feel anything for them.
And because of that...when people started dying...I didn't feel much.

I will give kudos to the twists in this book. Maybe it's because I don't know anything about Egyptian gods...but I didn't see the twists coming! They were nice surprises.

The ending didn't have my heart shattered on the floor...which I really wanted.
I was looking forward to a book crushing me. But because I didn't get close to anyone, I felt nothing.
If anything, my heart hurts because I didn't like this book more.

I know it wasn't a 5 star for me, but I know many will enjoy this book.
Give it a try!

[Tiffsbookcorner · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a different read for me as this has ties to Greek mythology but it's such a good read, the plot is amazing, a bit of spice and I love each of these characters! The development throughout the book was great. No HEA but the ending deff will lead into the next book nicely! Can't wait for book 2!
Oh and I love the songs throughout each chapter which deff gave it another amazing vibe, the author did amazing well!

[WhatsTammieReading · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don’t even know where to start with this book. I am a huge mythology fan so when I saw this was an Egyptian mythology inspired story, I knew I just had to read it. The character development in this book is flawless and the non-stop action packed storyline kept me on the edge of my seat. The world building was impeccable.

I loved reading as Willow and Tau’s relationship blossomed and the spice is HOT! Willow uncovers so many secrets being kept from her by those she felt closest to all her life, but found her family in Tau, Rho, Epsilon, and Omicron.

Fair warning, check TWs and know that this book does not have a HEA before jumping in. However, I will saw that based on where the book ended, I’m excited to see where the story goes from here!

[Alexa Hill · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️

I wish I knew more about Egyptian mythology before going into this book. She does a pretty good job of explaining things but I feel like I would've had a better experience if I knew more going in.

I absolutely loved how she had songs for each chapter and had them in the chapter headers as well.

[heylookitskelsi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my god, where do I start? This book had me feeling allllll the feelings. I giggled and rolled my eyes, I was stressed, I was shocked and my jaw dropped, I was in pain and felt defeated. My mind is STILL racing over everything that goes down. I am impatiently waiting for book two and hoping for Willow to get her revenge.

[Jonnica · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story was developed around Egyptian Mythology which was an amazing read. Willow was the MFC who goes through a life changing experience and has to learn how to balance her life! There was a small amount of spice but the plot of the story was perfect and well written out! I can't wait to read more by Aliyah!

[Bianca · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is action packed and full of twist and turns.

I loved all the Egyptian mythology and how it was explained, I think it could be a lot of you did not know much about everyone. Would recommend reading the glossary before starting if that is the case.

I am very interested to see where book 2 goes

[Kelley West Gemeiner · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a wonderful story. Willow does not want to accept her fate. The story is filled with the old Egyptian gods. No HEA. The plot moves fast there is a glossary at the end for those that are not versed in the old gods. It was nice that it didnt end on a cliffhanger, but I want to continue reading when she brings out the next in the series. 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5

[iesha Bright · Rating 4 out of 5]

For a debut this author hit it out of the park. Who doesn’t love Egyptian lore with sleep token vibes.
I loved how each chapter was a different song. Character development was good and the world building was amazing. The twists and betrayal had me on my toes I def recommend but check triggers first there are quite a bit.

[Ray (Richelle) Valhalla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay so, i am going to rate this a 4.5, but since we cannot do half stars on GoodReads. 5 stars it is!
I have always been enthralled with Egyptian mythology, and anything to do with anthropology, so when I saw this posted on my TikTok. I knew I had to read this. The storyline sucks you in and it's a nice blend of mythology and plot, and the character development throughout the book is just amazing.

I will 100% be picking up more from this author.

[Butter Nutt Squash · Rating 4 out of 5]

Awesome book! The world building was beautifully done. I loved how the mythology was woven in. Mixed with the mystery, suspense, banter and a bit of spice 🤌. This book put me through it and I'll be back for book 2 lol.
Also if you like your books to have a playlist this book has a song for every chapter 🥰