The Nephilim’s Touch

Tales from the Tarot

by Morgan Lysand

Hex, Indiana is the one place Gabe has found acceptance as a nephilim. He keeps his head down and enjoys his work at the one bar in town while making sure stray feathers don’t find their way into the wrong hands. Tending his beloved plants helps him stay busy, but he longs for someone to care for.

Van knew better than to go after the king of crossroads. Their battle ripped a hole in the veil and sent Van to a strange town in the human world to bleed out when his healing magic failed. Just as he thinks it’s lights out, the most beautiful angelic creature approaches him. Demons, especially crossroads demons, aren’t supposed to get attached. But his rescuer has the softest touch and the sweetest voice. Perhaps Van can take a little break from trying to become king of the crossroads demons.

The Nephilim’s Touch is a standalone MM romance novel as part of the multi-author collaboration Tales from the Tarot. This book is based on the major arcana card, The Consort (Empress).

Genres: Paranormal, M M Romance, Romance, Magic, Angels, Urban Fantasy, LGBT

193 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 14, 2024

About the author

Hey peeps! I’m Morgan.

I’ve always been a reader and a daydreamer. My writer origin story is embarrassing now that I think about it. But also kinda funny, maybe. One day I might share. If people ask nicely. It involves a psychic.

I share an apartment with my sister in Southern Indiana where we keep the AC on year round and try to keep each other entertained. 

Reviews

[Dani (Daniiireads) · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️

Gabe, a very sweet but lonely nephilim, has made his home in the supernatural town of Hex, Indiana. When not bartending, he can be found talking and tending to his plant babies, or visiting The Magic Shop, a place that no one else seems to know about but him.

Van, a crossroads demon with a gnarly temper, is always one to act now and think later. Which is how he ends up banished to Hex with no powers and a clock ticking over his head counting down to his demise unless he changes his ways.

The pair meet when Van gets literally thrown out of Hell and directly into Gabe’s path. With none of the other demons able to help him, Van can only rely on the sweet angelic man that is Gabe.

The chemistry between Van and Gabe is instantaneous, and while I would have liked it to be a bit slower of a connection, their story was pretty cute and definitely steamy! I loved how well these two balanced each other out, and that Gabe brought out such a sweet side to Van that no one else got to see.

[Dani · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was so intrigued by this book but then it kinda fell a little flat. Nothing really got explained fully about all of the different paranormal species, or even the town and the characters, so it was hard to connect.

I liked Gabe a lot - his whole personality was refreshing and I loved his enthusiastic nature, but I felt like we didn't get told a lot about what a Nephilim even is and then he's just transforming all of a sudden?

Honestly I would have preferred more plot and less spice because I just kept skimming over the sex scenes. I find it hard to care about the character(s) if I'm not getting to know anything more than surface level about them, so I'm not particularly fussed on reading multiple sex scenes for relative strangers!

[Lionelle Pmuls (That's Slump Backwards & It's What I Do) · Rating 4 out of 5]

4'5 Stars

ARC Read: 13/09/2024
I received this ebook for free and I'm leaving this review of my own accord. Thank you, Morgan Lysand for this gift. 🥰

What to expect from this book? 🤔

❤️‍🔥 Adult MM Paranormal Romance 🥵💦
👉 Small Supernatural Town
🍃Plant Daddy & Bartender Nephilim x Crossroads Demon😈
👿 Grumpy x Sunshine 🌈😳
👉 Strangers To Roommates To Lovers
🥵👌 One Bed
👉 Opposites Attract 🧲
🤌 Size Difference
💞 Mutual Insta-Crush/Lust
😇🙏Please Teach Me Magic (& Bottoming Demon)
😈🙏Be My Angel Angel
🥵Tail & Horns Play
👉Possessiveness & Jealousy
💫 A Cute, Androgynous, Little Half-Angel
&
🧶 A Loyal, Grumpy, Stubborn, Rule Breaker Demon
👉ADHD & Bisexual Rep
👉Found Family
🐕Adorable Hellhound Doggy & Cutepie Kitten Shifter🐈
🌿🍂Magical Nymph Shows At The Community Garden By The Moonlight🍃🍁


Series: Tales From The Tarot #8
Cover: 5/5
Story: 4,5/5

This book is filled with so many funny, fluffy, and hot moments, I couldn’t get enough! 😍

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"Van: “I hope you’re okay with me touching you,” someone whispers, then there’s a light pressure on my face. The warm cloth instantly soothes me. “I don’t know who you are, but you can touch me anytime.” They squeak when I circle my hands around their waist. I’m enjoying the peace and quiet with my eyes closed, but I want to see who disturbs my slumber so sweetly. Also, why on earth are they sitting on me?"

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Genre/Trope:Adult/MM Romance/Size Difference/Opposites Attract/Friends To Lovers/Insta Lust/Insta Crush/Low Angst/Please Teach Me/Shameless Flirt/Cranky Nature/Sun Kissed Spirit/Bi Rep/Paranormal/Fantasy/Sweet Tooth/Angel Or Demon/Beast Glamour/Bite Isn't Enough/Dirty Talker/LGTBQIA Plus/New Authors/Off Grid Attraction/Very Possessive Mc/Forced Proximity/Very Tempting Roommate/ARC/Morgan Lysand

Content/Trigger Warnings:vomiting mentioned
Plot: 5/5
POV: 1

Main Characters:
5/5 – Gabe, nickname: Angel, 28yo, he/him, Nephilim (half-angel, half-human), bartender at Flutter & Fangs, kind, cute, plant daddy, (and according with Van smells “like sunshine and rain and rainbows, if rainbows had a scent.”)
5/5 – Vander, nickname: Van, 30-35yo, he/him, demon: crossroads demon, grumpy pants, stubborn, loyal friend.

Van and Gabe’s relationship felt so natural, cute, and true… so adorable and spicy with all that flirting and teasing!
I really enjoyed reading this book. It gave me such a great time.

I absolutely loved how patient Gabe was with Van, and the scene where they were knitting? H.I.L.A.R.I.O.U.S. 🤣

Oh, and let’s talk about the neutral pronouns they used for each other in their minds before even knowing each other’s pronouns…..UFFFF, I ATE THAT UP. 👏👏👏
As someone who is enby/gfluid, it made me feel so seen.
It’s so refreshing and also gives such insight into how the MCs see the world, showing the respect they have for others.
It was just purrfect. I can’t even begin to explain how much this means to me!

Honestly, just days ago, I was reading a book (duh) where the MCs magically knew each other’s pronouns without asking.
It irritated and confused me…..? like, how can anyone still think that clothes, body shape, or voice give you all the info you need to assume someone’s gender?!
So, 🙌 THIS WAS SUPER REFESHING 🙌!!!

Now the flirting and the sex? 🤌🤌🤌 Tail and horn play, any time you want please!

Major Arcana Tarot Card: The Empress (The Consort)
Card Info:
-UPRIGHT. femininity, beauty, nature, nurturing, abundance.
-REVERSED. creative block, dependence on others.

The Magic Shop, The Owner, the magic book, and the runaway tarot card were the perfect combo!
I just wish Gabe had bought a plant to bring back with us and describe more of his plant babies.
I know. I know. I know. I'm being very demanding today… I feel it but it just bc I loved this book so much that I can’t help wanting more!

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"Van: “It’s not what it looks like,” Gabe says, going even pinker and scrambles to get off me. “Aw, I want you to stay, angel,” I tease, as I tighten my hold around his hips. Warwick ignores me to address Gabe directly. “You are straddling my brother. What do you think it looks like?” Gabe squeezes his towel so hard the water drips into my chest. “I couldn’t reach anything from the side of the bed and he was passed out and—” Wick’s lips twitch, and he doubles over. “I’m just giving you a hard time. I’m glad that of all the people to find him, it’s you.” “I didn’t find him, he sorta—” “Poe shoved me through the veil right into Hex.” I growl, causing Gabe to shiver on top of me. If he doesn’t watch it, he’ll make me hard and I’m fighting as it is."

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Side Characters: 4/5

I love Nef, the wood nymph! All the scenes in the community garden beneath the moonlight, with Nef’s performances, felt absolutely magical.
The descriptions were so vivid, and the non-binary Rep?
Wow! Can we even ask for more?

My only issue with this story was that some of the side characters didn’t appear as much as I expected. I was hoping for more involvement from them, so while the book doesn’t feel incomplete, it still left me wanting more backstory or even just a few more appearances from those characters.

For example, Gabe’s mother (his angel side) was awful and hardly a mother. I was really expecting her to show up, leading to a much-needed confrontation with Gabe with a whole lot of drama between them for Gabe’s sake.
I also thought Gabe’s grief over his human father’s death would be mentioned more rather than just mentioned at the beginning.

On the other hand, Van and Wick’s mother was explained in enough detail that I felt satisfied. Van’s description alone made it clear she was quite a piece of work, so I didn’t feel the need to meet her or learn more about her.
I completely understand that the book is meant to be short, which limits how much the author dives into the characters, places, and even the plot.

But for me, some side characters felt underdeveloped. Likely because of my high expectations and my habit of trying to predict where the story is headed... something I’m working on… my bad!

I feel that the HEX series Morgan Lysand created, with its mini cliffhanger vibes, is meant to be read in order for a full understanding of the Hex Universe.
Some characters seem underdeveloped or deliberately kept mysterious because the author plans to explore them further in future or previous books.

Take Poe, for example the King Of Crossroads.
I feel like we needed to get to know him a bit better. I didn’t like how he treated Van and his brother, and it didn’t feel well justified, especially with his over-the-top dramatic solution concerning Van’s temper issues.

But anyway, that said, I can’t wait to dive deeper into the Hex Universe and learn more about these characters!!!

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"Gabe: I’m out of breath once I get to the door of the shop and take a few minutes to center myself before going full Kool-Aid Man inside. I wonder what kind of plants will be here today. As I enter, I breathe in the familiar scent of old books and incense."

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Humor: Medium High Focus
Angst: Low Focus
Steam Level: 3,5/5
Romance: High Focus
Cheating? No
Cons:The only thing I didn't need was the specifics on the food. My favorite kinds of books are the ones that don't describe the food the characters are eating in every scene, or at least only once or twice. It's not just because I'm vegan—I respect everyone's choices—but I also don't think it's necessary to define a character's lifestyle or personality by their food preferences. That's why I don't read chef or food-related books. That being said I didn’t need the specifics of scrambling eggs, it was cute the mutual liking but too much description.
The Ending: 2,5/5
HEA/HFN/Cliffhanger? HEA

Once again, just me and my assumptions, but I was expecting a bit more from the ending. It was cute, but maybe not quite enough.

Favorite character? Plant Daddy Of Course
Would I read more of this author? Yes
Would I recommend this book? Yes
Will I read this again in the future? Yes

This is my 1st book by Morgan Lysand.
Enjoyment: 4,5/5

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"Van: And there’s that grin again. Okay, that’s the goal. Keep Gabe smiling. “I bet you get all the guys, gals, and pals all hot and bothered.” (...) The back of his hand presses to my forehead. “Maybe you should stay in bed, you’re—” I grab his hand. “Angel, demons run hot.” “Oh. Right.” And the blush is back. Blushing and grinning. That’s what I want. “But, I do think…” My head spins and I fall back. I can’t keep my eyes open and sleep takes me again."

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Hex Universe Series by Morgan Lysand:
10/1. Kisses At The Crossroads In Fortune Favors The Fae Multi-Author Series - Lark & Pike's Story - To Read
8/2. The Nephilim’s Touch - 4 stars
Expected on 11/10/2024:
5/3. How To Summon A Memory In Cauldrons And Kisses Multi-Author Series - Ethan & Warwick 's Story - To Read

Tales From The Tarot Series:
💙 4. King Of Hollywood by Fae Quin - 4,5 stars 💙
💜 5. My Minotaur Daddy by Laura Lascarso - 40% DNF For Now 💜
🖤 6. Across Space And Time by Kit Barrie - 10% DNF Forever 🖤
❤ 7. Chariot Of Souls by Morgan Mason - 3 stars ❤
💚 8. The Nephilim’s Touch - 4'5 stars 💚
🧡 9. By Rude Strength by K.L. Hiers - 4 stars 🧡
💛 10. Found In Obscurity by A.M. Rose - 2,5 stars 💛
💜 14. Death Song by B. Ripley - 42% DNF For Now 💜
💛 17. Camelot's Tower by Brooke Matthews - 5+++ stars 💛
💚 18. A Highland Gargoyle's Lucky Star by Chloe Archer - 4 stars 💚
💙 19. Trust In The Moon by Delaney Rain - 4 stars 💙
💜 20. Raising The Sun by Eryn Hawk - 4 stars 💜

!! I don't equate fiction stories to real life. It's a matter of personal taste and what you are willing or want to tolerate in the books you read. We all have different opinions and preferences when it comes to the kind of books we enjoy, so it's important to respect and remember that it's just a book!!

Hope this review was helpful.
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[⭐Toonasa⭐ •Romance Book Lovers' Haven• · Rating 5 out of 5]

A cute MM paranormal romance novella with crossroads demon x nephilim, being unexpected roomies, fun size difference, & a lesson to learn!
This was quick to read, loved Van & Gage! Devoured my #ARC in 3hrs.

Van is a crossroads demon. V's short-tempered, bloodthirsty for righteous justice, caring, misunderstood (& a "runner" IYKYK 😂).
Gage is a nephilim, bartender in Pike's club 😍. G's kind, patient, sweetheart with cute blushing.

These 2 are cute & I loved that they each taught the other something ❤️. I love me a vers couple! They're fun. I would've liked if the climax wasn't so quick but it'll do lol.

Even tho this is part of multi-author series, Morgan has made a sorta connected world with these demons & I'm excited to see Wick's story!

There were a few typos but I've talked with the author & hopefully they're corrected!

Story Ratings:

POV: 1st person, Dual POV
1) Overall Enjoyment—> 5/5
2) The Characters: 5/5
3) Top feels: 😅😳😆😁🤭😍😯😏🥺🥰🧐😂🥵❤️
4) Steamy scenes: 2.5/5
5) Levels: Cute+Swoon: 4.5/5
Angst: 1.5/5
Dark: 1/5
6) Creativity + world: 4.8/5
7) Plot arc: (PNR love & a lesson) 4.25/5
8) Writing style + pace: 4.5/5

[Billy ⋆｡･☽･⋆* (semi-hiatus) · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 ☆. Easy and fun read.

The MCs are very likeable and funny. There's depth as well. The world-building is very interesting, fun, and very original. The magic shop scenes were fun, we see both MCs interacting with The Owner, and that was a lot of fun.

Thank you, Morgan Lysand for a chance to read this book for free. I'm leaving this review of my own accord.

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[Anonymous Booklover · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC of this book and I really loved and enjoyed it! I was looking forward to this book and I was not disappointed
It was sweet and emotional and I really liked the relationship development between the two MCs
Thank you!
(I reccomend reading Kisses at the Crossroads by this author before reading this)

[San Lemonade · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Nephilim’s Touch by Morgan Lysand
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4 stars

📚 8th Book In The Tales From The Tarot Series

The Consort (Empress) card
Upright: Femininity, Beauty, Nature, Nurturing, Abundance
Reversed: Creative Block, Dependence on the Others

😍 My first book by Morgan Lysand
⬆️ Ebook ARC

😏 Adult MM Romance
📖 Fantasy Contemporary
👉 Supernatural
📖 Sweet and Captivating Story
👆 Hurt & Comfort
🔀 Dual First-Person POV
👉 Bisexual Rep
👉 ADHD Rep
😏 Size Difference (I love it🥵)
👌Roommates To Lovers
😅 Opposites attract
😡😁 Grumpy x Sunshine
😏 Longing Looks & 😅The Temptation, Sleep Next to Me
😏 Dirty Talk & ☺️Blushes
😈 Stubborn & Grumpy & Jealous Demon😡
🪴🍃Plant Daddy
✨️🍹Magical Mixed Drinks🍸
🥵 Slow-burn (but... hot damn) 🥵🥵🥵
🥵 Spicy: 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶

MC's:
😇 Gabe (aka Angel, only for Van 🥰):Nephilim (half human & half angel), he/him, 28yo, Bartender at Flutter & Fangs*, sunshine with cute blushing, plant daddy.
*Pike's club. Lark and Pike's story is the 10th book from Fortune Favors the Fae Series, Kisses at the Crossroads by Morgan Lysand.

👿 Vander aka Van: he/him, early 30s, Crossroads Demon, Grumpy with temper issues (not with his angel). He’s always getting into trouble, but luckily now a cute Nephilim is there to nurse him back to health and help him learn a lesson within a month.


💔 Broken Trust (past)
❤️‍🩹 Love and Hurt (past)
👉 Low-Angst
⚠️ Use of Pot Content (past)
⚠️ Sickness & Vomits
👉 Mutual Yearning For A Family Of Their Own
👉 Found Family
👏 Solid Character Development
💯 Best Side Characters
👉 Can Be Read As A Standalone
😍 Love The Ending
😍 HEA

Cover: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 stars

👏 The world created for this story is really well-built, and so are the characters. I loved them all.
It’s set in a charming and special small town, Hex, Indiana.
I felt so connected to the story, it’s sweet and teaches a lesson about acceptance and kindness.

❤️‍🔥Gabe is a Nephilim learning to accept who he truly is. With Van’s guidance, he discovers how to use his magic and embrace his Nephilim nature. Van, on the other hand, is confident and proud, with a fiery temper. He loves himself but needs to learn that fighting and breaking rules aren’t the answer. Gabe helps him understand that actions have consequences. Throughout the story, Van learns this important lesson.
They’re so sweet and perfect together. This was just what I needed for my sweet tooth.

▪︎FAV QUOTES▪︎

■ "Van: Something smells divine. Like sunshine and rain and rainbows, if rainbows had a scent. I breathe deeper, ..."

■🪴 "Gabe: While Van’s in the shower, I water the rest of my plants. I’m half afraid I’ll forget in the morning, so I opt for now. “Alright, little guys, do your thing.” I lift my watering can to the violets in the white plastic gazebo I inherited from my grandmother. She’s the reason I love plants so much. They make me feel like I matter, like I have something to take care of."

💚

👍I'm definitely going to read this again

Thanks for reading hope this helps you out!

I received this book as a gift from the author and am voluntarily leaving this review.

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[Molly Otto · Rating 5 out of 5]

Audio update

Zachary Zaba does it again, just showing he can make an already exciting story even better with his great skills. I'm so happy to see him paired with Morgan Lysand once again with her Hex, Indiana universe. Heres hoping for Wickys story to be brought to life next!

Part of the Tales from the Tarot combined universe Morgan embodies the Consort (Empress ) arcana card. She returns to Hex, Indiana (Kisses at the Crossroads) to see how everyone us fairing now that they are free from the reign of Drake and oh boy is Hex flourishing.
Van has been on the run from his guardian leadership since breaking the rules of the crossroads demons. His punishment is to return to Hex and learn patience. Gabe was sent to Hex to learn to embrace his Nephilum side. With the help of each other, these two learn to be stronger and better versions of themselves. These two chemistry are off the charts, and wow, I love how these two just work with each other. Morgan did a beautiful job, including the Magic Shop, and it's Owner in how he helps both men see their true destiny.

[.•°•MonaLisa•°•. · Rating 3 out of 5]

☆ 3 stars ☆

While this got off to a good start, the overall story lacked depth and would've benefitted from being novel length. I wanted to see more about Gabe and Van's growing relationship. I also wanted to see Gabe learning about his nephilim self. Instead, it felt like he knew nothing one day and everything the next. In the end, I didn't get how Van's singular action showed he'd learned his lesson. That said, I liked the basic story, and Gabe and Van were absolutely adorable!

[Natalie H · Rating 3 out of 5]

October 2024
Kindle edition

It was alright. Gabe was sweet and Van was pretty straight forward. The thing that bugged me with this one is it felt mid series. With Pike and Lark, Wick and Ethan, there was always this niggle that something was missing, which it tells you at the end. Lark and Pike's story is in the Fortune favours the fae series, Kisses at the Crossroads. Curious about the crossroads king. Best part was the talking book. The gargoyle was a dick.

[Darryl Bailey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love that this is all about learning a lesson and owning up to your crap. The guys are adorable and would love to see another stay of them further along in life with hellhound puppies, a trip to another realm to meet his mom, more of his nephilim abilities….

[Samantha Fox · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Nephilim’s Touch is the 8th book in the multi-author series Tales From The Tarot and it serves to represent the Consort/Empress Card in the Major Arcana. The Empress when in the uptight position is associated with someone who is loving and nurturing. The upright position of The Empress indicates beauty and comfort and femininity, and is associated with the earth element. In the reverse position it indicates a loss of self, due to an individuals dependence on others and a lack of self worth.

Gabe has felt out of place his entire life, never fitting in the human world and not understanding what it means to be a Nephilim since his experience with angels was limited to less than a handful of meetings with his mother. Gabe is kind and caring, he has a way about him that makes others feel calm and happy, which makes him the perfect person for the quick to anger crossroads demon whose selfish decisions have been consequential to everyone he cares about except for himself. Van needs to make life changes and he needs to make them quickly. His time with Gabe begins to give him a new perspective on the world around him, helping him understand the importance of taking accountability for his actions and take consideration to the feelings of others.

The fluff in this book was quite refreshing, in comparison to some of the more darker themes book in this series. I really enjoyed the sweetness of Gabe and how judgment free he is towards those around him. Gabe is a great representation of The Consort, and I am so happy that as the book foes on he realizes that he is able to accept is true self and find someone who loves him for who he is. I loved how much Van’s character evolved from someone who thought they were meaning well but not thinking about how his actions affected others, to really taking consideration of those around him. Other viewed Van as difficult, and in ways he is when it comes to the rigidly of this worldview, but his his intentions were good.

This short and sweet read is definitely worth the read if you are looking for something that will make you feel good and lighthearted.

[GreenwingReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my second PNR book by this author and I really enjoyed it overall!

It is short and sweet, so keep that in mind as you read because the timeline is a little accelerated with everything happening within a month.

Gabe is a super sweet, plant-loving nephilim who has finally found a place he feels like he belongs in Hex. Still, Gabe is a bit of a mess and kind of lonely. He lacks self-confidence and is a bit of a wallflower. When Van literally crashes into his life, he immediately jumps in to help the crossroads demon. Van is being punished by his demon king and has one month to learn an important lesson: selflessness and humility. Gabe is the perfect person to teach him!

Gabe is adorable and I developed a soft spot for him right away. Van was harder to like, but that's the whole point of his character. The plot revolves around his character development, afterall. At his core, he is a good guy and he does things to help other people, but he is impulsive and runs away rather than facing the consequences of his actions, often leaving others holding the bag. Through his relationship with Gabe and spending time in Hex, Van sees the consequences of his actions on others and learns not only to be less self-centered, but also to be more responsible.

There isn't a lot of high action plot, but there is plenty of steam! Gabe and Van jump in very quickly and have a whole lot of fun together!

It's important to note that this story takes place in the Hex universe, which is from an already established series by the author and there are many cameos by characters from that series. I didn't know that at first, I thought this was a total standalone, so I was confused and felt like I was missing something important. Once I realized it was part of a bigger series, things pretty much fell into place. I do think it might have been more enjoyable for me if I'd read the other books of the Hex series first.

[Scatteredashes · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gabe has found sanctuary in the city of Hex after the passing of his father. Van's a crossroads demon who has been running from his problems for a long time. Van's finally catches up with him and sets a time limit to learn to curb his anger and is literally thrust into Gabe. I loved how Gabe saw something in Van that the others had a hard time seeing. It was sweet watching Gabe take care of and sooth Van while still giving him room to be himself. The same went for Van though. He loved the way Gabe took care of his plants and appreciated the ways that Gabe took care of him. This was a really sweet story that I think needed just a touch more to make it a five star read. I would've loved to have learned more about Gabe's relationship with his mother. There seemed to be more to unpack about his unwillingness to accept his nephilim side than just the necromancer story. I also would've loved to have seen more of Van and Gabe talking about why Van was always angry and felt the need to run. It's mentioned on a surface level, but I think it could've had a much more emotional punch if these topics were fleshed out just a bit more. The characters are a lot of fun and I love the others who live in Hex!

This is also kind of tied to a couple other stories that Morgan is/has written. You don't have to read those, but I'm kind of intrigued by the people who are drawn to this city so I plan to check them out too!

[Robert Alvarez · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The Nephilim's Touch," by Morgan Lysand, is the fourth in the multi-author "Tales From the Tarot" series of novels. It is based on Key III, The Empress, also known as The Consort from the Major Arcana of the Tarot. My softcover edition has a grand total of 190 pages, including end pages.

Gabe is a Nephilim, half Angel, half human. He lives in Hex, Indiana, where Magickal Folx are fully accepted and can express themselves fully, without needing to hide their Magickal Powers from humans. Van is a Crossroads Demon. The two of them have nothing in common, and yet, Fate intervenes, and they begin helping each other; Van helps Gabe fully accept and embrace his Angel/Nephilim side, and Gabe helps Van see himself as not only an asshole.

As a professional Psychic Reader who specializes in Card Reading Divination, including Tarot, as well as being a Gay man, I cannot help but love this series. In fact, my only complaint about it is that I cannot seem to find these books somewhere other than Amazon.com.

I enjoyed the interactions between Gabe and Van, and especially enjoyed how Gabe helps Van trust himself more and trust humans and other Magickal Folx more, too. Of course, I really loved how much Van cares about Gabe, not just loves him and not just finds him attractive, but also really cares about him, as a lover, as a future husband and a fellow Magickal Folk. Oh, and their sex scenes are SUPER HOT!!

I cannot wait to read the rest of this series.

[Katriana · Rating 4 out of 5]

(edited to grab link)

I wish there was more of a focus on building up a relationship between Gabe and Van. It's mainly focused on the steam instead of any relationship building. If you enjoy insta-lust then this is right up your alley! Now, having said that, onto what I loved!



This book was adorable. Gabe and Van work so well together, they provide excellent contrast to one another while fitting together seamlessly. I liked reading about the journeys both of these men went on.

Gabe is a Nephilim and his journey is learning how to fully accept himself, and with Van's help he learns how to use his magic properly, as well as accepting his true Nephilim self. Van's journey is different that Gabe's. Van loves himself and his body, he's a bit cocky, arrogant, and has a temper that comes on fast and burns hot. Gabe helps him learn that fights aren't the way to solve issues, breaking the rules and now accepting the consequences isn't okay. And throughout the course of this story he learns precisely that.

I adored these two characters, they are both sweet in their own ways. Van is misconstrued by the people who know him, they all think he's selfish and uncaring but most of his actions has been to protect those he cares about. Overtime he learns that where he went wrong is letting his anger get the best of him, and running away. We really got to see him grow and learn from his past mistakes which I enjoyed. Gabe's character also grew during this story but in a different way. Overall a really fabulous story! I loved the sassy book that Gabe bought from The Owner, that book was so quirky and sassy.

[Jeanette Waters · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Nephilim's Touch is Morgan Lysand's contribution to the multi-author series, Tales From the Tarot. It's set in Hex, Indiana. Which was also the setting for their Kisses at the Crossroads. While it's not necessary to read Kisses, it will help when you're reading the first chapter.
Gabe and Van’s story is wonderful. Gabe is a Nephelium, and a plant whisperer. With an Angel parent that's MIA, he's learned his magic with help from the internet. Van is a Crossroad's Demon. He's angry, impulsive and has a tendency to run away rather than face the consequences of his actions.
It's a sunshine/grumpy, chance of redemption story. Van can be violent, but he's always gentle with his 'angel'. Gabe names all his plant 'babies' and takes lots of photos with his phone. And is willing to share with his friends. He's a born nurturer, but has a sassy side. Their chemistry is sizzling. Sweet as Gabe is, he's no innocent. And their scenes are fan your face hot.
About halfway through the deck and I haven't found a story I didn't like. And Nephelium is a favorite. It's enjoyable and like all great books, not long enough. There's a bunch of characters and stories in this magic town of Hex, Indiana. So, maybe.... please..... more tales.
I received an advanced copy of this book and this is my review.

[Autumn L · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story is about finding themselves after everything that’s happened to them. I like that both are discovering themselves again. That they support one another. And they both want love and someone to be with them no matter what. They are very caring And will do anything to protect the ones they care and love. What I like about Gabe is he finally found a place where he belongs. He doesn’t want to hide who he really is a half nephilim. Also like that, he doesn’t judge people and is willing to help them. He also is very caring and helpful towards Van. Van has had a hard life but now it is a challenge. Needs to improve Himself before time runs out. What I like about him is he’s very protective of his family and will do anything to keep them safe. Under the mask that he puts up is a very soft and kind demon. I also like that, he accepts Gabe for who he is and is willing to teach him magic and so much more. He also becomes a better person in the long run. This town is very accepting of everyone. They have so many wonderful things here for everyone. The magic shop The Owner is always there to help in anyway he can. And I like how the tarot card that they pulled is just like Gabe The Consort. I really did enjoy reading about these two.

[LC · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! Wow! Wow! I hoped after Kisses at the Crossroads that we would see more of Van and Wick. This book literally gave me what I wanted.

Van is a demon with a temper problem. He doesn’t think things out and runs away from the problems he creates. When King of the Crossroads Poe catches up to him, he only has two choices change or turn to ash. Gabe is new to Hex. He is part human and angel, a nephilim, who has bound his powers and doesn’t really know magic. He is bartending at Pike’s bar though and knows of Van superficially. Can he help Van change?

I loved Van’s story. Gabe took the time to get to know him, to figure out who he really is. He encouraged him to be more than he thought he was, he encouraged him to change his bad habits. I think Hex, Indiana is a really cool world that Morgan Lysand has written. From Lark and Pike to Van and Gabe to hopefully Wick and Ethan soon. This kind of standalone and yet interconnectedness is my favorite thing about reading. I love when characters continue on, I love seeing them change and grow.

[Angel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is part of the multi-author series, Tales From The Tarot. It can be read a stand alone from this series but I do recommend reading Kisses At The Crossroads by the same author, which first introduced this world and all the characters.
Van is in hiding from his King for breaking the rules (Kisses At The Crossroads) but he is soon found and given his punishment. Gabe has finally found a place where he could be himself, but is still struggling to accept it and let his true self shine. That is, until Van stumbles into his life (literally, lol). They may be total opposites but it doesn't stop them seeing each other's real self and pain, allowing them to make a strong connection. A connection that gave them courage and strength to face their fears, and in Van's case, let past anger and hurt heal.
There was also humor, steam, and some suspense/action, along with the emotional moments to keep you hooked from beginning to end. Now I can't wait for Warwick's (Van's brother) story in How to Summon a Memory.

[Marion · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is part of the multi-author Tales from the Tarot series. The subject is new to me and I loved this book. This is the story of Van and Gabe. Both are currently living in the wonderful and interesting town of Hex Indiana. Van is a Crossroads demon who is on the run from his king. Once caught, he is thrown back to Hex and given 30 days together his temper under control and to become a better demon. Luckily, the king wants him to succeed and drops Van in front of Gabe. Gabe is very happy to live in Hex. He has friends and he has his magic locked down. Gabe is afraid that his magic will be used to hurt people. When Gabe rescues Van, they both have a lot to learn from each other. In exchange for staying with Gabe rent free, Van will help Gabe learn how to properly use and control magic. This is their story. The book is very well written and easy to read. I was surprised by how much I loved this book. I can't wait for another Hex Indiana story.

I received a complimentary advanced review copy from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Showarst · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Nephilim’s Touch by Morgan Lysand Tales from the Tarot multi-author universe. Gabe has recently moved to Hex, Indiana after his human father died. He is a nephilim but he knows nothing about his powers or how to conrol them. He has heard about Van, a crossroads demon, who is hiding from the King Demon, Poe, after killing an evil vampire. Van shows up and Gabe tends to him. They both are attracted to one another and their relationship is very sweet to see. I do feel like we missed some relationship milestones along the way, and I could have done without the o*gy talk- lol. But I really loved these characters. I want to go back and read Pike and Lark’s story, but I am desperate for Wick and Ethan’s. This was very enjoyable.

I’m looking forward to the next book!

I received an ARC from the author for my honest review

[Aly York · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had received this as an ARC for my honest review. The Nephilim’s Touch by Morgan Lysand is amazing, wonderful, and beautiful. Gabe and Van’s story drew me in immediately and had me wanting more right away. Gabe is a Nephilim that doesn’t fit in until he moves to Hex. Van is a demon on the run and gets exiled to Hex without powers unless he is summoned. Gabe takes care of Van and they start to build a relationship. Van is relentlessly flirty with Gabe and its all in fun until Van realizes he has fallen for his angel. Gabe has also fallen for his demon, It’s a cute and wonderful story. It keeps you guessing and makes you want more and more. They both are adorable together and it was such a wonderful day read. I would highly recommend to friends.

[Lena · Rating 4 out of 5]

“The Nephilim’s Touch” was such a delightful and magical read! Gabe, a nephilim who just wants a peaceful life in Hex, Indiana, completely won me over with his quiet strength and yearning for connection. His tenderness with his plants and his desire for someone to care for really brought depth to his character. Then there's Van, the crossroads demon—dangerous, but also vulnerable in ways that made him irresistible. Their meeting felt like fate, and the slow burn of their relationship was filled with warmth and unexpected sweetness. I especially loved how the paranormal elements blended so naturally with the romance, and the way the story pulled from tarot to give it an otherworldly feel. It’s a perfect mix of fantasy, danger, and heartfelt moments, with just enough heat and emotional depth to keep me hooked. A fantastic standalone that I didn't want to end!!!

[Terri · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Tales from the Tarot series has been truly entertaining, and The Nephilim's Touch fits in perfectly. Gabe and Van are great together from the moment they meet, even though Van is unconscious at first. I like the quirks that each displayed. Van is a demon on a life or death timeline to learn to tame his temper, and Gabe is a nephilim who doesn't know how to safely embrace his angelic side. They are smitten and seem to fit together like PB&J.
This story is low-angst despite Van's and Gabe's issues, and the Owner of the magic shop is less creepy than he appears in other books in the series. I like the main and supporting characters here, and I would love to visit Hex, Indiana, again. I think I need to see how Van's brother finds his own HEA.

[Zack Davies · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Nephilims Touch - 3.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️

This is part of a multi author series of tales from the tarot im slowly reading them all, which each book is based around a tarot card each.

We follow Gabe and Van; Gabe been the cute Nephilim bartender and Van been a crossroads demon who gets stuck in this small town, the story is where both these mcs need to find themselves and believe in themselves and become better people which is really cute, fairly low angst but not super investing but a cute read overall. It is a fairly short book and easy read but not one id see myself ever re-reading.

TROPES
- Adult MM Paranormal Romance
- Small Town vibes
- Grumpy x Sunshine
- Found Family

NSFW TROPES
- tail + horn play
- Verse!
- learning to love bottoming

[Bianca · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gabe and Van story was kind of sweet with a learning curve of being the better part of self, a little bit of sacrifice, accepting ones flaws, and gaining happiness.
They are endearing together and their first encounter an unexpected one, their chemistry is off the charts, but they thread carefully as they both been hurt in the past.
The balance each other, and help each other to get to their true potential, and to be truthful about their feelings.
I liked seeing old friends and the role they had in their quest, the challenges they had to get over, and the help they got along the way.
I liked the story and I'm looking forward to see what happens next.

[Lily · Rating 3 out of 5]

The story had such potential, but unfortunately I was left a little disappointed. Gabe and Van were actually very cute together, and it sounded like they both had a lot to learn about themselves. But did they do it? I don't think so, not really. They had this instant sort of spark, which didn't really build into a full chemistry, and when it came to their personal issues, I don't think they were entirely resolved.

Gabe was told he needed to learn about magic and learn about himself as a nephilim, but we don't get to see any of their lessons other than the trysts in bed, and by the time we get to the end - when Gabe feels the need to save Van from a confrontation, he's suddenly able to understand his true nephilim self and that's that.

I really liked the premise, I just wish the story had some more depth to it - both in the character's relationship, and their road to self-discovery.

[Sophie Hutchins · Rating 5 out of 5]

“He squeezes my hand, and I want to melt. Want to be a better person. Want to worship at his feet.”

A super short, sweet and spicy tale.

Gabe is just a complete and utter sweetheart. He is a, literal, angel. He’s adorable and I love him and his plant babies. I loved the way he would banter with Van and even though he was part angel, he didn’t fit into the stereotypical angel box.

Van was fun, I liked seeing the character change from being a big burly fighter with anger issues to the big burly loveable fighter.

They were both so good for each other.

An adorable quick read.

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

“I’m a demon. I’m rude. And an asshole. Don’t get attached.” “To bad. I think I already am.”

[Demetra Roussakis · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great read. We learnt about Van when he appeared in Kisses of the Crossroad Demon book. After being away for a year to stay hidden from Poe, who is the King of crossroads demons. When Poe finds him, a magical device is implanted and he has 30 days to change or he turns to ash. Gabe has been in Hex for a while and is a bartender. He is also part angel and part human. When Van collides with him, he helps take him back to his apartment to heal him. This is the start of the story of how Gabe helps Van keep calm and Van helps Gabe embrace his nephilim side. Love this world and cannot wait for the next book.