What do you think?
Rate this book
The Flower of Death
Many ages ago, the Gods ruled over the mortal lands with an iron fist. Numerous realms suffered under their cruel leadership, until all at once, the immortals vanished. The people of Calibria aren’t sure what happened to the horrid rulers all those years ago. They only know that now, the mortals worship a new religion and all aspects of Gods have been deemed forbidden by punishment of death.
Yet, every full moon, a stubborn young girl is found in a forgotten decrepit temple, worshipping a forbidden God. She prays to the Celestial to heal her dying mother.
Until one late night, she is caught.
This is an adult book that features explicit language and sexually explicit scenes. Please see TW content on website
"I start to hyperventilate and pull my hand away, taking a step back. I catch my reflection in the silver mirror. My face is tanned with dirt, clean streaks running down my cheeks from the path of my tears. My button nose is red from the frosty coastal air. My thin lips chapped and cracked from dehydration. I have been beaten and worn down by life, continuously tested. My energy sucked from my body, leaving me questioning my will to live. I’m angry, furious with what life has dealt me. I want to give up, it would be so easy.
But maybe I don’t want easy.
I want to live and if that means taking the wrath of life’s heat, I will burn in her flames. I square my shoulders and puff out my pale chest, inhaling the salty cold air deep within my lungs, freezing my core.
Whatever happens walking through this Veil now, I know for certain, it will not be my death. I reach out my mud stained fingers and touch the Veil."
Yet, every full moon, a stubborn young girl is found in a forgotten decrepit temple, worshipping a forbidden God. She prays to the Celestial to heal her dying mother.
Until one late night, she is caught.
This is an adult book that features explicit language and sexually explicit scenes. Please see TW content on website
"I start to hyperventilate and pull my hand away, taking a step back. I catch my reflection in the silver mirror. My face is tanned with dirt, clean streaks running down my cheeks from the path of my tears. My button nose is red from the frosty coastal air. My thin lips chapped and cracked from dehydration. I have been beaten and worn down by life, continuously tested. My energy sucked from my body, leaving me questioning my will to live. I’m angry, furious with what life has dealt me. I want to give up, it would be so easy.
But maybe I don’t want easy.
I want to live and if that means taking the wrath of life’s heat, I will burn in her flames. I square my shoulders and puff out my pale chest, inhaling the salty cold air deep within my lungs, freezing my core.
Whatever happens walking through this Veil now, I know for certain, it will not be my death. I reach out my mud stained fingers and touch the Veil."
440 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 13, 2024
107 people are currently reading
989 people want to read
About the author
Jessica Nahas
1 book28 followersJessica enjoys writing spicy romantasy books while drinking numerous cups of coffee through the day and spending time with her dog.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
November 14, 2024
~ARC Review~
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This was such an Amazing Read!! It was so easy to fall in love with these characters and
Yall, the banter was spot on! It had me Rolling it was hilarious🤣
And Oh Plot twist from hell! Had me floored! this book had so many surprising twists and turns and such great pacing with a wonderful plot full of enchanting places, hilarious and exciting Characters, dark themes, steamy Spice and Beautiful world Building that left me wanting to climb into the book! And oh, let's not forget the Three Shadow Daddy Brothers Tai God of War, Kai God of Chaos And Ro God of Death (who also happens to have Wings 👀) YES PLEASE🥵 and Oh Lord the ending! The ~To Be Continued~ had me YELLING😫 i need book 2 ASAP!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This was such an Amazing Read!! It was so easy to fall in love with these characters and
Yall, the banter was spot on! It had me Rolling it was hilarious🤣
And Oh Plot twist from hell! Had me floored! this book had so many surprising twists and turns and such great pacing with a wonderful plot full of enchanting places, hilarious and exciting Characters, dark themes, steamy Spice and Beautiful world Building that left me wanting to climb into the book! And oh, let's not forget the Three Shadow Daddy Brothers Tai God of War, Kai God of Chaos And Ro God of Death (who also happens to have Wings 👀) YES PLEASE🥵 and Oh Lord the ending! The ~To Be Continued~ had me YELLING😫 i need book 2 ASAP!
January 26, 2025
The first 75 or so pages were very slow, but I pushed through and OH MY GOD am I glad I did. This book combines nearly every one of my favourite tropes, and does it in such an amazing way.
I have never read a book as good as this one for an author’s debut work.
4/5.
I have never read a book as good as this one for an author’s debut work.
4/5.
October 28, 2024
Found family, ancient gods, funny banter characters, and action all wrapped up in a book you can't put down when picked up? I loved Grace's adventures throughout the entire read!
December 30, 2024
Made it 13 pages before I got the ick.
January 9, 2025
Bleh
The story could have been good but felt like the writing was so juvenile and waY too wordy. Not interested in another one.
The story could have been good but felt like the writing was so juvenile and waY too wordy. Not interested in another one.
January 29, 2025
DNF @11%
Juvenile writing. Somehow both under written (characters) and over written (descriptions of scenery).
No thanks.
Juvenile writing. Somehow both under written (characters) and over written (descriptions of scenery).
No thanks.
February 3, 2025
this one had me really intrigued at the start, felt like it had a lot of potential but then it just got too confusing for me to understand what it was really about lol
February 14, 2025
Solid Romantasy book from a brand new author. I can’t wait to see how Jessica writes the next book! Some parts were written kind of choppy, but again this is a new author. Tons of potential with this series! I’ll definitely read book 2!
-found family
-virgin shadow daddy
-banter
-fated mates
-gods and goddesses
-found family
-virgin shadow daddy
-banter
-fated mates
-gods and goddesses
June 27, 2024
Stabby FMC
Inexperienced MMC
Found family
Forced Proximity
Gods, Fae & a Corrupt government
𝘚𝘱𝘪𝘤𝘺
I loved this book. From the beginning, I was intrigued. But once Grace meets Kai, Tai and Ro I was HOOKED. Like, stay up until 4 am reading hooked. 🥲🫠
I fell in love with Kai, immediately. I love his goofy, chaotic personality. I thought the portrayal of the god of chaos was done perfectly. He was one of my top favorite characters. ❣️
I 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙙 Ro. I guess I’m a sucker for an inexperienced, grumpy MMC and Ro 𝙙⃨𝙞⃨𝙙⃨ 𝙣⃨𝙤⃨𝙩⃨ disappoint.
There’s a lot of separate parts happening in the story that I’m thinking will set up for book 2.
The only thing I didn’t care for was Grace & Fallons sibling relationship. I found it a little weird, but that’s just me.
That ending!?! What a cliffhanger. I love books like this. The ones that get you thinking about what’s going to happen next with all the moving pieces. I can’t wait to see what’s going to happen in book 2!! Highly recommend this is you are a fan of fantasy!
Inexperienced MMC
Found family
Forced Proximity
Gods, Fae & a Corrupt government
𝘚𝘱𝘪𝘤𝘺
I loved this book. From the beginning, I was intrigued. But once Grace meets Kai, Tai and Ro I was HOOKED. Like, stay up until 4 am reading hooked. 🥲🫠
I fell in love with Kai, immediately. I love his goofy, chaotic personality. I thought the portrayal of the god of chaos was done perfectly. He was one of my top favorite characters. ❣️
I 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙙 Ro. I guess I’m a sucker for an inexperienced, grumpy MMC and Ro 𝙙⃨𝙞⃨𝙙⃨ 𝙣⃨𝙤⃨𝙩⃨ disappoint.
There’s a lot of separate parts happening in the story that I’m thinking will set up for book 2.
The only thing I didn’t care for was Grace & Fallons sibling relationship. I found it a little weird, but that’s just me.
That ending!?! What a cliffhanger. I love books like this. The ones that get you thinking about what’s going to happen next with all the moving pieces. I can’t wait to see what’s going to happen in book 2!! Highly recommend this is you are a fan of fantasy!
November 21, 2024
SPICE - 🌶️🌶️🌶️ possibly 4
⚔️ENEMIES TO LOVERS⚔️
❤️ WINGED SHADOW DADDY VIBES ❤️
🪓TOUCH HER AND DIE 🪓
I’m going to start this review out with an OMFG…. This is a MUST READ…I have NEVER had a book that had me hooked by the end of the first chapter …. I have NO words to explain how amazing this book is . It’s hard for me to believe this is her first novel. I am utterly speechless . The world building is phenomenal. The character building a chefs kiss . The twists and turns turns the story takes literally has you on the edge of your seat the whole read !!! The FMC is written with such strength and not that annoying shit, pure strength in its most femistic form, not brute strength but mental strength.
The MMC has your heart bleeding . There are too many facets of him to explain the depths of his emotions .
But he is one of my favorite book boyfriends!!!! You will sincerely fall in love with every single supporting character without a shadow of a doubt !!! I mean who can resist quotes like :
🔥🔥“you show me something magical I have never experienced and my soul feels as though it could burst… but then, you throw shoes at my head—You drive me insane, Grace.” I admit to her.
“I knew you liked me.” She says.
“You are unstable.” I mumble.
🔥🔥“he demands I follow the small angry human who has claimed she hates me. I am going into a fucking battlefield following her. Her eyes told me she wanted to stab me repeatedly and drink of my blood. I am going to be enclosed with her, I need to make sure there are no sharp things around.”
🔥🔥“I was ruined the first time I saw you.”
🔥🔥“You have obliterated me, entirely. You always will.”
🔥🔥“ I have to remember to stand my ground or she will likely end up stabbing me. A small smile graces my lips as I think of her and chuckle. She will always try to stab me, whether or not I stand my ground. “
⚔️ENEMIES TO LOVERS⚔️
❤️ WINGED SHADOW DADDY VIBES ❤️
🪓TOUCH HER AND DIE 🪓
I’m going to start this review out with an OMFG…. This is a MUST READ…I have NEVER had a book that had me hooked by the end of the first chapter …. I have NO words to explain how amazing this book is . It’s hard for me to believe this is her first novel. I am utterly speechless . The world building is phenomenal. The character building a chefs kiss . The twists and turns turns the story takes literally has you on the edge of your seat the whole read !!! The FMC is written with such strength and not that annoying shit, pure strength in its most femistic form, not brute strength but mental strength.
The MMC has your heart bleeding . There are too many facets of him to explain the depths of his emotions .
But he is one of my favorite book boyfriends!!!! You will sincerely fall in love with every single supporting character without a shadow of a doubt !!! I mean who can resist quotes like :
🔥🔥“you show me something magical I have never experienced and my soul feels as though it could burst… but then, you throw shoes at my head—You drive me insane, Grace.” I admit to her.
“I knew you liked me.” She says.
“You are unstable.” I mumble.
🔥🔥“he demands I follow the small angry human who has claimed she hates me. I am going into a fucking battlefield following her. Her eyes told me she wanted to stab me repeatedly and drink of my blood. I am going to be enclosed with her, I need to make sure there are no sharp things around.”
🔥🔥“I was ruined the first time I saw you.”
🔥🔥“You have obliterated me, entirely. You always will.”
🔥🔥“ I have to remember to stand my ground or she will likely end up stabbing me. A small smile graces my lips as I think of her and chuckle. She will always try to stab me, whether or not I stand my ground. “
February 21, 2025
DNF’d at 11%
someone else said “very juvenile writing. under described characters and somehow over described scenery” or something. and i whole heartedly agree. it felt like if an 11 year old were to get you a rundown or vlog of their day like “i did this! and this! and oh yeah i made cookies! and cleaned my room!” and so on and so on. very poorly and also oddly written. it was first person POV but in an odd way. would not recommend to more experienced readers. but could be fun for a inexperienced reader or younger person.
someone else said “very juvenile writing. under described characters and somehow over described scenery” or something. and i whole heartedly agree. it felt like if an 11 year old were to get you a rundown or vlog of their day like “i did this! and this! and oh yeah i made cookies! and cleaned my room!” and so on and so on. very poorly and also oddly written. it was first person POV but in an odd way. would not recommend to more experienced readers. but could be fun for a inexperienced reader or younger person.
April 23, 2025
This book absolutely hooked me. If you love forbidden gods, rebellion, and heroines who burn rather than break, The Flower of Death is a must-read. Jessica Nahas delivers a haunting, emotionally charged tale set in a world where gods have vanished—but their echoes still haunt the edges of belief.
Our fierce protagonist dares to worship a forbidden Celestial in a world where even a whisper of the old gods is punished by death. Her strength and grit bleed off the page, especially in moments where she is at her lowest—and still chooses to rise.
There’s an undeniable sense of dread and hope interwoven throughout the story. The writing is lyrical and immersive, and the quote—“I want to live and if that means taking the wrath of life’s heat, I will burn in her flames.”—has lived rent-free in my mind since I read it.
I need the next book. Immediately.
Our fierce protagonist dares to worship a forbidden Celestial in a world where even a whisper of the old gods is punished by death. Her strength and grit bleed off the page, especially in moments where she is at her lowest—and still chooses to rise.
There’s an undeniable sense of dread and hope interwoven throughout the story. The writing is lyrical and immersive, and the quote—“I want to live and if that means taking the wrath of life’s heat, I will burn in her flames.”—has lived rent-free in my mind since I read it.
I need the next book. Immediately.
July 7, 2024
This book has me obsessed with dark fantasy romance. The world building was very well-done and the chemistry formed through the character interactions will give you some good laughs and a good cry. I really like that Grace is strong and is very much the “stab first and ask questions later” type 😂.
Ro is the god of brooding, but is still a god all the book girlies will love by the end.
I’m so happy to have reviewed this book and will definitely recommend it to readers who love ACOTAR and similar books. Now we patiently wait for the next book👀
Enemies to Lovers
Forces Proximity
Sunshine x Grumpy
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Ro is the god of brooding, but is still a god all the book girlies will love by the end.
I’m so happy to have reviewed this book and will definitely recommend it to readers who love ACOTAR and similar books. Now we patiently wait for the next book👀
Enemies to Lovers
Forces Proximity
Sunshine x Grumpy
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
March 8, 2025
Ummmm I need to find more people that read this book because I NEED TO TALK TO SOMEONE ABOUT IT!
I’m SHOOKETH by that ending and I need the next one IMMEDIATELY....
Thank you to heart bound books for bringing this book to my attention, but also thanks a lot to the bookish hangover I got going on!
The fantasy world was so interesting and the steam was oh sooooo good!
The only thing that I found slightly annoying is that:
1. Some of the dialogue was a little too contemporary and it slightly brought me out of the book world.... I mean the main character's world was not contemporary at all... why was she talking that way?
2. Grace's banter with Death seemed a little juvenile... I needed more intelligence banter lol
Overall.... amazing read and I'm just a picky reader. lol I can't wait for the next book... I need it NOW!
I’m SHOOKETH by that ending and I need the next one IMMEDIATELY....
Thank you to heart bound books for bringing this book to my attention, but also thanks a lot to the bookish hangover I got going on!
The fantasy world was so interesting and the steam was oh sooooo good!
The only thing that I found slightly annoying is that:
1. Some of the dialogue was a little too contemporary and it slightly brought me out of the book world.... I mean the main character's world was not contemporary at all... why was she talking that way?
2. Grace's banter with Death seemed a little juvenile... I needed more intelligence banter lol
Overall.... amazing read and I'm just a picky reader. lol I can't wait for the next book... I need it NOW!
December 23, 2024
Wow
Ok, this book was great. The characters are amazing. Didn't expect to laugh and cry as much as I did. Ro and Grace are NOT finished! I need the next books immediately
Ok, this book was great. The characters are amazing. Didn't expect to laugh and cry as much as I did. Ro and Grace are NOT finished! I need the next books immediately
April 24, 2025
4.5
*slight spoilers included*
Okay my heart! This book had a hold on me and I didn’t want it to end! The ending broke my heart and left me in a chokehold.
•
Ro and Grace complete one another, bringing out the best in each other. I love their relationship and how they each deal with the fact that they are mates, ending with love that neither of them knew was possible. My heart hurts in how the story ended but I know that this is not the end of these two and Grace will be okay. Right? She has to be okay! 😭
•
Not only am I in love with the main characters, but also all the side characters. I would love to get stories all about Kai and Chaos as well as Tai and Pearl! These characters and the world are amazing and I cannot wait for the series to continue!
•
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5/5
*slight spoilers included*
Okay my heart! This book had a hold on me and I didn’t want it to end! The ending broke my heart and left me in a chokehold.
•
Ro and Grace complete one another, bringing out the best in each other. I love their relationship and how they each deal with the fact that they are mates, ending with love that neither of them knew was possible. My heart hurts in how the story ended but I know that this is not the end of these two and Grace will be okay. Right? She has to be okay! 😭
•
Not only am I in love with the main characters, but also all the side characters. I would love to get stories all about Kai and Chaos as well as Tai and Pearl! These characters and the world are amazing and I cannot wait for the series to continue!
•
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5/5
January 1, 2025
Enjoyed this read!!
Jessica Nahas weaves a compelling tale of resilience, rebellion, and faith in The Flower of Death. Set in a richly imagined world where the gods have vanished but their legacy remains a forbidden subject, the story follows a defiant young girl whose desperate prayers to a banned deity put her at odds with her society’s rigid laws.
The story’s pacing keeps readers engaged, blending moments of quiet introspection with high-stakes tension. While the world-building is immersive, the author also leaves room for mystery, making readers eager to uncover the secrets of the Veil and the forgotten gods.
This book is a must-read for fans of dark fantasy with strong emotional undercurrents. Its themes of perseverance and rebellion against oppressive forces resonate deeply, leaving a lasting impact long after the final page.
Jessica Nahas weaves a compelling tale of resilience, rebellion, and faith in The Flower of Death. Set in a richly imagined world where the gods have vanished but their legacy remains a forbidden subject, the story follows a defiant young girl whose desperate prayers to a banned deity put her at odds with her society’s rigid laws.
The story’s pacing keeps readers engaged, blending moments of quiet introspection with high-stakes tension. While the world-building is immersive, the author also leaves room for mystery, making readers eager to uncover the secrets of the Veil and the forgotten gods.
This book is a must-read for fans of dark fantasy with strong emotional undercurrents. Its themes of perseverance and rebellion against oppressive forces resonate deeply, leaving a lasting impact long after the final page.
January 6, 2025
Absolutely hooked from the first chapter! Such a fun and thrilling twist of events. The FMC is stabby and perfect. The spice is SPICY🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️. The banter is *chefs kiss* ! All of my favorites wrapped into one fun book! I cannot wait until the second is released! That cliffhanger though 😳
December 19, 2024
A mix of ACOTAR and ancient gods. I greatly enjoyed this fresh take on dark fantasy romance! There were:
✅️ twists and turns
✅️visual world building
✅️arresting characters
✅️beautiful relationships
✅️sizzling spice
Grace is a spunky, stab-happy young woman who, through unforeseen and unfortunate circumstances ends up in the Land of the Gods. Ro is Death - an irritable, broody ancient who doesn't know what to do when he discovers a spark of life within the darkness when he meets the girl who smells like his favorite flowers.
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
✅️ twists and turns
✅️visual world building
✅️arresting characters
✅️beautiful relationships
✅️sizzling spice
Grace is a spunky, stab-happy young woman who, through unforeseen and unfortunate circumstances ends up in the Land of the Gods. Ro is Death - an irritable, broody ancient who doesn't know what to do when he discovers a spark of life within the darkness when he meets the girl who smells like his favorite flowers.
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
December 19, 2024
World Building: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶🌶🌶
Plot: 💥💥💥💥💥
Characters: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
This book was AMAZING! 5/5 stars. I loved the dynamic shift from one realm to another & loved how much depth the characters had. I felt every emotion under the sun while reading it & I'm SO excited for book 2! Nothing ever felt too rushed or too drawn out, which can happen easily in these types of books! I also appreciate that each character truly felt like they had an important part to play (good and bad) & contributed to the story nicely!
Spice:🌶🌶🌶
Plot: 💥💥💥💥💥
Characters: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
This book was AMAZING! 5/5 stars. I loved the dynamic shift from one realm to another & loved how much depth the characters had. I felt every emotion under the sun while reading it & I'm SO excited for book 2! Nothing ever felt too rushed or too drawn out, which can happen easily in these types of books! I also appreciate that each character truly felt like they had an important part to play (good and bad) & contributed to the story nicely!
January 4, 2025
SPEECHLESS
To say I gobbled this book up would be an understatement! I am at a loss for words, I wish I could live in this little world and meet these characters. And the ENDING! Don’t even get me started! 10/10 would recommend!
To say I gobbled this book up would be an understatement! I am at a loss for words, I wish I could live in this little world and meet these characters. And the ENDING! Don’t even get me started! 10/10 would recommend!
April 3, 2025
obsessed
It’s been months since I read this and I am STILLLLL thinking about it all 💘 so excited for book 2!
It’s been months since I read this and I am STILLLLL thinking about it all 💘 so excited for book 2!
July 7, 2024
Let me start by saying that there will be books that stick with you for a long time, and this is one of those books for me.
First, we start in a world where old Gods have been forsaken, to meet Grace, a girl desperately praying to the moon goddess to save her ailing mother. Then, after unforeseen circumstances, Grace is thrust beyond the veil and into the world of Gods long forgotten.
The world-building in this book is some of the best I've seen. Readers will be transported from a quaint fishing town where corrupt religion rules to a land beyond their wildest imaginations. You can really picture the setting, the characters, and their emotions, and it just draws you into the story from the first chapter. The amount of work the author put into creating the mythology of the world and the histories is clear.
Each character has a unique personality and backstory, making it hard to choose a favorite. Kai, the God of chaos, brings humor to every dialogue, yet his darkness is true to his title. Grace, with her stab-happy nature and strong beliefs, is a force to be reckoned with. And then there's Ro, the God of death. The author skillfully balances morally grey actions with an almost innocent lack of understanding of some emotions, keeping you entertained and emotionally invested.
The dialogue will take you on an emotional rollercoaster, from laughter to tears. This book contains a fair amount of spice; it's well-written and enhances the story, deepening the connections between the characters. The dual POV storytelling allows you to delve into the characters' thoughts and emotions, making it easy to connect with them.
Even with a more fantastical setting, some of the messages hit close to home and made me feel seen. Grace's resilience and her care for her family are commendable, and it's so great to see characters who fight for what they believe in, even if that means facing Death (IFYKY). Plus, who doesn't want to have a new book boyfriend who will do anything for the people he loves?
This story will keep you on the edge of your seat, wishing you could read faster to uncover what happens next. The found family dynamic is heartwarming, the twists are unpredictable, the spice is just right, and you'll find it hard to choose a favorite character.
Pick up this book if you like dark romance, found family, enemies to lovers, forced proximity, fantastic world-building, and some added spice.
First, we start in a world where old Gods have been forsaken, to meet Grace, a girl desperately praying to the moon goddess to save her ailing mother. Then, after unforeseen circumstances, Grace is thrust beyond the veil and into the world of Gods long forgotten.
The world-building in this book is some of the best I've seen. Readers will be transported from a quaint fishing town where corrupt religion rules to a land beyond their wildest imaginations. You can really picture the setting, the characters, and their emotions, and it just draws you into the story from the first chapter. The amount of work the author put into creating the mythology of the world and the histories is clear.
Each character has a unique personality and backstory, making it hard to choose a favorite. Kai, the God of chaos, brings humor to every dialogue, yet his darkness is true to his title. Grace, with her stab-happy nature and strong beliefs, is a force to be reckoned with. And then there's Ro, the God of death. The author skillfully balances morally grey actions with an almost innocent lack of understanding of some emotions, keeping you entertained and emotionally invested.
The dialogue will take you on an emotional rollercoaster, from laughter to tears. This book contains a fair amount of spice; it's well-written and enhances the story, deepening the connections between the characters. The dual POV storytelling allows you to delve into the characters' thoughts and emotions, making it easy to connect with them.
Even with a more fantastical setting, some of the messages hit close to home and made me feel seen. Grace's resilience and her care for her family are commendable, and it's so great to see characters who fight for what they believe in, even if that means facing Death (IFYKY). Plus, who doesn't want to have a new book boyfriend who will do anything for the people he loves?
This story will keep you on the edge of your seat, wishing you could read faster to uncover what happens next. The found family dynamic is heartwarming, the twists are unpredictable, the spice is just right, and you'll find it hard to choose a favorite character.
Pick up this book if you like dark romance, found family, enemies to lovers, forced proximity, fantastic world-building, and some added spice.
May 19, 2025
Plot: ⭐️.5
Characters: ⭐️⭐️
Spice/Romance: ⭐️⭐️
Writing/Prose: ⭐️.5
Overall: ⭐️.75
"The Flower of Death": A Thorny Journey Through Frustration and Fury
I started The Flower of Death by Jessica Nahas with genuine curiosity. The prologue hinted at a rich, mysterious world, and Grace—our FMC—initially drew me in. She’s caring for her ill mother, living with her brother Fallon, and just trying to survive. Her friend Evie was a vibrant highlight I wish had more page time.
But things quickly went downhill.
Grace’s pride and stubbornness constantly land her in reckless situations. There’s a big “you can’t tell me what to do!” energy radiating off her that becomes exhausting fast. The setting feels pre-modern, but the characters talk like they’ve stepped out of a 2020s YA fantasy TikTok, making the worldbuilding feel uneven—despite some strong descriptive prose. When Grace crosses through the Veil into the Realm of the Gods—a magical barrier keeping mortals and gods apart—the tone should’ve matched the gravity. It didn’t.
By 25%, Grace has faced tragedy and claims to be on a revenge quest. But that’s quickly derailed by “oooh, hot men!” energy. Her dynamic with Ro—Death himself—was maddening. Grace is manipulative, boundary-stomping, and emotionally immature. She weaponizes intimacy, ignores Ro’s repeated requests for space, then paints herself the victim when he (understandably) reacts with frustration. It’s genuinely hard to root for her.
Ro, meanwhile, is bafflingly gullible for a god of death. “There’s just something about her” is apparently all it takes to override centuries of caution and sense. His brothers egg it on, finding Grace’s behavior amusing, which only made things worse.
The writing flip-flops between overly flowery and oddly modern—sometimes within the same scene. Grace’s internal monologues are repetitive and melodramatic, filled with self-pity that goes nowhere. I kept waiting for the plot to sharpen, for the revenge arc to return, for the character growth to start. It never did.
I DNF’d at 61%. I was only still reading because this was part of a Traveling Book event in my book club. If not, I would’ve bowed out at 53%. I spent more time rage-noting in the margins than enjoying any part of it by then.
This read like a chaotic, hormone-fueled attempt at a Hades and Persephone retelling, muddled by vague Nordic/pagan influence and a complete lack of emotional depth. The Flower of Death had potential, but it got lost somewhere beyond the Veil—and I won’t be following it into book two.
Characters: ⭐️⭐️
Spice/Romance: ⭐️⭐️
Writing/Prose: ⭐️.5
Overall: ⭐️.75
"The Flower of Death": A Thorny Journey Through Frustration and Fury
I started The Flower of Death by Jessica Nahas with genuine curiosity. The prologue hinted at a rich, mysterious world, and Grace—our FMC—initially drew me in. She’s caring for her ill mother, living with her brother Fallon, and just trying to survive. Her friend Evie was a vibrant highlight I wish had more page time.
But things quickly went downhill.
Grace’s pride and stubbornness constantly land her in reckless situations. There’s a big “you can’t tell me what to do!” energy radiating off her that becomes exhausting fast. The setting feels pre-modern, but the characters talk like they’ve stepped out of a 2020s YA fantasy TikTok, making the worldbuilding feel uneven—despite some strong descriptive prose. When Grace crosses through the Veil into the Realm of the Gods—a magical barrier keeping mortals and gods apart—the tone should’ve matched the gravity. It didn’t.
By 25%, Grace has faced tragedy and claims to be on a revenge quest. But that’s quickly derailed by “oooh, hot men!” energy. Her dynamic with Ro—Death himself—was maddening. Grace is manipulative, boundary-stomping, and emotionally immature. She weaponizes intimacy, ignores Ro’s repeated requests for space, then paints herself the victim when he (understandably) reacts with frustration. It’s genuinely hard to root for her.
Ro, meanwhile, is bafflingly gullible for a god of death. “There’s just something about her” is apparently all it takes to override centuries of caution and sense. His brothers egg it on, finding Grace’s behavior amusing, which only made things worse.
The writing flip-flops between overly flowery and oddly modern—sometimes within the same scene. Grace’s internal monologues are repetitive and melodramatic, filled with self-pity that goes nowhere. I kept waiting for the plot to sharpen, for the revenge arc to return, for the character growth to start. It never did.
I DNF’d at 61%. I was only still reading because this was part of a Traveling Book event in my book club. If not, I would’ve bowed out at 53%. I spent more time rage-noting in the margins than enjoying any part of it by then.
This read like a chaotic, hormone-fueled attempt at a Hades and Persephone retelling, muddled by vague Nordic/pagan influence and a complete lack of emotional depth. The Flower of Death had potential, but it got lost somewhere beyond the Veil—and I won’t be following it into book two.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 5, 2025
•The Flower Of Death•
Long ago, the mortal lands of Calibria, along with countless realms, were ruled by the Gods under their mighty reign until a war waged between the Gods and the Veil was raised, separating the Gods from the realms and bringing death to any who dared to cross it.
A new religion was born amongst the mortal lands, and all aspects of the old Gods were deemed forbidden, punishable by death.
But that did not stop Grace, a stubborn mortal girl, from worshipping in secret beneath the full moon, praying for the Celestial to heal her dying mother.
Grace meets her untimely end, leaving behind her beloved family and best friend only to be reborn with the blessed gift, or curse, of healing.
Upon discovery of her forbidden gift, Grace's life lay in peril when the ultimate betrayal brings her to stand before the Veil, beckoning her to embrace death once more, but upon making the crossing Grace finds herself in the lands of the long forgotten, wicked and cunning Gods.
Revenge has sown its seed deep in her mind and only Death stands in her way.
Literally.
-
Broody, winged shadow daddy? Check.
HE is the virgin? Hehehe check.
Infuriating mortal who pushes his buttons? Check.
Spicy af? Check.
Touch her and die? Check.
Ancient Gods in a magical realm? Check.
Found family? Check.
-
"I would rot the world if it meant I could taste you for all eternity".
"Make no mistake, little creature, I would burn the world for you. In this eternity, and the next".
Ro, you sweet talker, you 😍
-
Alright y'all, teleport me the heck to Elyssus to flirt with Death himself, while his brother, the God of Chaos braids my hair and I can befriend the God of War and his Cerberus, Pearl, because that sounds like a darn good time to me 💁🏻♀️
I loved the way this world was described!
The ending thoughhhh 🥺
I need book 2 asap!
🌟🌟🌟🌟/5 🖤
Long ago, the mortal lands of Calibria, along with countless realms, were ruled by the Gods under their mighty reign until a war waged between the Gods and the Veil was raised, separating the Gods from the realms and bringing death to any who dared to cross it.
A new religion was born amongst the mortal lands, and all aspects of the old Gods were deemed forbidden, punishable by death.
But that did not stop Grace, a stubborn mortal girl, from worshipping in secret beneath the full moon, praying for the Celestial to heal her dying mother.
Grace meets her untimely end, leaving behind her beloved family and best friend only to be reborn with the blessed gift, or curse, of healing.
Upon discovery of her forbidden gift, Grace's life lay in peril when the ultimate betrayal brings her to stand before the Veil, beckoning her to embrace death once more, but upon making the crossing Grace finds herself in the lands of the long forgotten, wicked and cunning Gods.
Revenge has sown its seed deep in her mind and only Death stands in her way.
Literally.
-
Broody, winged shadow daddy? Check.
HE is the virgin? Hehehe check.
Infuriating mortal who pushes his buttons? Check.
Spicy af? Check.
Touch her and die? Check.
Ancient Gods in a magical realm? Check.
Found family? Check.
-
"I would rot the world if it meant I could taste you for all eternity".
"Make no mistake, little creature, I would burn the world for you. In this eternity, and the next".
Ro, you sweet talker, you 😍
-
Alright y'all, teleport me the heck to Elyssus to flirt with Death himself, while his brother, the God of Chaos braids my hair and I can befriend the God of War and his Cerberus, Pearl, because that sounds like a darn good time to me 💁🏻♀️
I loved the way this world was described!
The ending thoughhhh 🥺
I need book 2 asap!
🌟🌟🌟🌟/5 🖤
July 2, 2024
Get ready to feel all the emotions in this book. It is tough for me to believe this is Jessica’s first publication. This story is written in such a way that you are drawn into the story itself. The vivid descriptions of the environments bring this world to life and you feel as though you are experiencing this world with the characters.
Follow Grace on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment as she navigates a world where Gods are forbidden and a Royal religion has the people in fear. Grace’s journey through this story is a powerful testament to overcoming all obstacles not only for the ones you love but for yourself. She suffers betrayal and loss. She learns to deal with her grief and the true meaning of love. All the while, surrounded by colorful characters that have such different personalities and backgrounds. This book has some spice too. The spicy scenes are very spicy but not so much as to take away from the story itself.
The MMC shows how strength can be more than just physical. He shows how things are not always as they appear and that if you look below the surface you may be surprised at what you find. The MMC shows us that one can live a lifetime or more and still not know all that life has to offer. He shows that a person can still be amazed and naive to many things no matter the amount of time they have spent in existence.
This story shows love can die in unexpected ways and how love can come from just as unexpected of places. To quote our “stabby” queen “Love can be sacrifice.”
Follow Grace on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment as she navigates a world where Gods are forbidden and a Royal religion has the people in fear. Grace’s journey through this story is a powerful testament to overcoming all obstacles not only for the ones you love but for yourself. She suffers betrayal and loss. She learns to deal with her grief and the true meaning of love. All the while, surrounded by colorful characters that have such different personalities and backgrounds. This book has some spice too. The spicy scenes are very spicy but not so much as to take away from the story itself.
The MMC shows how strength can be more than just physical. He shows how things are not always as they appear and that if you look below the surface you may be surprised at what you find. The MMC shows us that one can live a lifetime or more and still not know all that life has to offer. He shows that a person can still be amazed and naive to many things no matter the amount of time they have spent in existence.
This story shows love can die in unexpected ways and how love can come from just as unexpected of places. To quote our “stabby” queen “Love can be sacrifice.”
January 20, 2025
I wanted to love this. And for the first 25% I did. SO MUCH. But then its like they changed writers completely and now I'm just confused. MFC goes from a rather sane person who has gone through some shit and now has some understandable baggage to an unhinged sex focused crazy person with no shame or personal awareness. All of the characters are likable though which I appreciate. But when girlfriend is grinding up on a man she just met who she believes wants to kill her while he carries her to go meet another character...its just like WHA?! Like did you lose your mind somewhere and forget to tell us? Do you have some sort of mating bond the author forgot to foreshadow? If that were the case she wouldn't have had the same insta-lust for the other characters too though right... Ugh I'm sad. DNF at 50%
July 12, 2024
4.5 Stars ⭐️
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶
🦇 Grumpy MMC that is stabs first, ask questions later
🐰 Passionate FMC that is questions now, 🌶fun🌶 later
"Determined to cure her ailing mother, Grace sets out every full moon to pray to a forbidden God. But everything goes wrong when she is caught." - Jessica Nahas
Roller-coaster of emotions 🎢. Keeps me wanting more with each chapter! Hopefully for a second book with the cliffhanger we had at the end of this one 🫣.
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶
🦇 Grumpy MMC that is stabs first, ask questions later
🐰 Passionate FMC that is questions now, 🌶fun🌶 later
"Determined to cure her ailing mother, Grace sets out every full moon to pray to a forbidden God. But everything goes wrong when she is caught." - Jessica Nahas
Roller-coaster of emotions 🎢. Keeps me wanting more with each chapter! Hopefully for a second book with the cliffhanger we had at the end of this one 🫣.
July 20, 2024
The Flower of Death is an amazing enemies to lovers fantasy read that gives you everything you need and more to feel like you are living the story! The plot, characters, scenery, and the erotic parts are very well written. There are twists and turns that you won’t be expecting and that will leave you wanting more! Talk about HOT, I’ve never wanted Death but I sure do now. I cannot wait to see what happens next, I need book two!! Not a want but a NEED!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews