Rise of the Gods: Vardor's Destiny

by Bella Blair

Monsters have always existed. They walk amongst us or live in the shadows. Hungering. Craving. Looking for love. Are you ready to meet these swoon-worthy specters and creatures of the night? It’s time for monsters…

Genres: Slow Burn, Mythology

286 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 10, 2025

Reviews

[Caligirlkrys · Rating 4 out of 5]

An Egyptian mummy hero who wakes up after a 10,000 year nap in Victorian era England? Yes, please!! This was a fun read. Vardor and Roweena had great chemistry together. While Vardor and Roweena get their happy ever after together, the story feels so much bigger and kinda felt like it could be a to be continued story. An entertaining story with a splash of mystery, adventure and a love that withstands the sands of time.

[Laura Moylan · Rating 5 out of 5]

As someone who loves Egyptian mythology, this book is awesome. It is new and changes a few things around, but that just makes it better. I really enjoyed it. Before the Pharaohs, the beginning of the book takes place. Vardor is the Warlord of , after growing up extremely poor he swears he would bring better things to the area. He does. There he meets the Goddess Vaelora and becomes her Chosen One to bring balance back, for that is what she is the Goddess of. Vardor loves Vaelora, but as a Goddess, she feels emotions differently. He did something to really tick her off and thus was mummified and cursed to sleep until being awoken by her in the future. Many times she woke him up and then let him go back to sleep. Her wrath is terrifying, like any other God. Finally, she wakes him for good as she needs her warrior again. Learning the why is breathtaking and terrifying as well.

Roweena’s father has decided it is time for her to wed- the Earl of Dunmer’s, Thomas Ashford. Things are weird and there is a lot of intrigue. Roweena has always been fascinated by anything Egyptian and it is her dream to go there. As a merchant’s daughter, she is not used to going to the balls and parties that the ton attend. She doesn’t fit in and it is hard for her to accept the snubbing and the comments. It upset me a lot and made me upset with her father, to put her through that. Her father doesn’t love anyone and as his only child it is her duty to wed to help him in his standing. Even tho he wed three more times. I found the world to be refreshing and fascinating. Seeing the peeks into the past and the now (late 18th century by the clothing)

Vaelora’s brothers, the Gods: Maezharr, Xyphor and Draeven have all been corrupted and she tried to talk to them to bring back the balance, to no avail. So she chose Vardor, the Warlord of Orasis to be her warrior. I loved how things progressed and how they were together. Now Vaelora’s rebirth as a human- Roweena has a lot of ramifications that I did not think of. I found the book fun, funny, romantic, scary, chewed on my nails, needed the AC for loads of things, as well as muttered curses, etc. I can’t wait to see if there are more books, I hope so. The fight scenes were exhilarating and once Vardor and Roweena admitted their true feelings it was both beautiful, romantic and mind boggling.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Keyyyy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book, it was an interesting read, some psychological, religious questions, it was interesting to even ask ourselves, but it was not the main focus :).

The main focus was Roweena and Vardor's love. I enjoyed it, but the lore could have been so big, it seems like it deserves a series on its own, especially after the epilogue and and the title. What about others gods ? Can they reincarnate ? How about the final battle ? And what after ? The "Father" who disappeared, can he come back ? Make others ?

Roweena and Vardor were cute together, learning from and rediscovering each ther, they had a good chemistry, I liked how long the trip was and that they could warm up to each other.

I felt like R&V didn't quite blend together at the end, the origin story was really nice and detailed, but I felt like they didn't blend, they still felt separated and not one being (will they choose a final name ? Does Vardor call her R or V ? Or both depending on the mood ?).
Also felt like there was so much build-up on the sexy times in Vardor's mind that the actual sex scenes were ... ok, I fully excepted to swoon and it was cute, good intimacy, but not "puddle worthy" lol (to quote Roweena a bit). This point was repetitive, especially since it was exactly the same sentence. I'm ok with doubts being repeated (her doubting his story, him how she will come back etc), but she already stated multiple times she doesn't know carnal pleasures, then Abbie explained it to her, but she doesn't know why her body is reacting like that ...

That was a nice book, i'm just rambling XD

[Βίκυ Χ. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Between Legends And Longing , Hearts Entwine.

"Rise of the Gods: Vardor’s Destiny" by Bella Blair casts a spell on readers with a whirlwind of intense emotions, infused with a mesmerizing blend of Regency charm and the ancient mystique of Egypt.

Although I approached it expecting a sweet and humorous romantasy, I was pleasantly welcomed by a narrative unlike any other. While not without its imperfections, the tale sweeps you away from the very first page. Richly crafted, believable characters—along with swoon-worthy yet witty protagonists—invite you to root for or even against them. The exquisitely vivid settings serve as an enchanting backdrop for a balanced dance of sizzling romance, humor, and poignant, real-life themes—chiefly the pursuit of freedom and the empowerment of women.

"So why did we think it was right to do that to someone just because they were buried not a hundred, but thousands of years ago?"

In that singular moment, the talented author echoed my lifelong query about the ethics of disturbing the dead, offering far more than a delightful reading experience.

Vardor and Roweena’s journey stands out as a must-read standalone novel within the Time for Monsters series—a collection where each installment is crafted by a different author. Yet, I find myself eagerly anticipating a sequel; its exquisite closure hints at the potential for an equally, if not more, captivating adventure in Blair's enchanting universe.

I received an advance review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Carole · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rise of the Gods: Vardor’s Destiny is a tale that spans Regency England to the sands of ancient Egypt in a story of undying love in this newest book from author Bella Blair.
MFC Roweena is the daughter of a wealthy merchant who has just been bargained off in marriage to an Earl in need of funds, the arrangement benefiting both her father and the Earl of Dunmere.
What Roweena gains is freedom from the father who has no love for her, and who she doubts knows what love is. But is she really leaving one gilded cage for another?
When her father’s assistant Peter excitedly asks her if she would like to see his newest acquisition hidden in the house basement, she agrees.
A beautiful sarcophagus that draws her to it like a moth to a flame and elicits erotic imaginings that are embarrassing to say the least. She decides when the house is asleep she will return to explore further, alone.
Inside the sarcophagus MMC Warrior Vardor has slept for centuries, cast aside by the Goddess Vaelora whom he passionately loved. Now she has returned to him in mortal form and it is time to awake.
I enjoyed the good writing, adventure, passion, intrigue, and mystery of this entertaining story as Vardor and Vaelora/Roweena’s mistakes of the past carry them into a much enlightened future together. HEA.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Tera Honaker · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found Vardor's Destiny to be instantly captivating and very intriguing. This was my first ancient Egypt type fantasy read, and I was hooked from the very beginning. We follow the story of a "made" God of War, Vardor, who is trying to recapture the heart and forgiveness of his true love Vaelora (a goddess) while also being pursued by evil. I loved the concept of a journey through time and the author's descriptions of the settings in each period kept the pages turning! The characters were easy to relate to forming a strong emotional bond with the reader. FMC Vaelora starts off as the woman you love to hate but can't get enough of. Roweena's self-discovery and personal/emotional growth is endearing and how it all comes full circle with Vaelora is perfection. An uplifting tale of the meek and vulnerable attaining strength and power. Vardor's booming character presence and cool self-assurance along with the fact that he doesn't care what anyone thinks of him makes him a swoon worthy MMC. I loved that this frivolous (some might say) fantasy book tackles such important topics as good and evil, rich and poor, love, self-love and growth, friendship, and perseverance in way that is entertaining but also allows the reader to continue to ponder and relate to similar events in the real world. The only real negative about this book for me boils down to a simple editorial oversight (if it was even that). The author basically writes the same sentence twice (very little paraphrasing) on page 202 when referring to Cassandra. For some reason I found that it stood out and I was distracted after reading it. I went back and read it again to make sure I hadn't made a mistake. Honestly, I'm being super nit-picky with that comment and in no way did it ruin the entire book. Overall, a really good fast-paced read and I look forward to continuing the story!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Ellie (On a break, mostly rereading) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rise of the Gods is a historical/fantasy/paranormal romance by Bella Blair. This is something rather different from what I've read by Blair but I was intrigued. I love historical fantasy, and of course I'm here for a splash of romance.

This book blew me away. It was unique and exciting. Starting in Victorian era England, we travel to Egypt, with flashes to a long forgotten past and long forgotten gods and goddesses. And I'm gonna lie, Vardor's reanimation had me thinking of Imhotep from the 1999 masterpiece, The Mummy.

As we get to know Vardor and Rowena, it becomes quick that this demi god of sorts and human woman have a little something, something going on between them. However, it isn't immediate romance. These two are complex - there's a lot of past expectations and emotions of the present blending in as they get to know each other, as Rowena the human gets to know Vardor and learns more about herself.

I absolutely adored the ending and how everything came together. Vardor and Rowena are the ultimate power couple and I love them.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[kymagirl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ten thousand years ago, Vardor, the god of war was buried alive, punished by the goddess he loved. Now, in 19th-century London, a curious young woman named Roweena uncovers a forgotten sarcophagus and unknowingly awakens Vardor, the ancient warlord bound by divine betrayal and sealed fate. Vardor is convinced she’s more than mortal. He believes she’s Vaelora reborn, the goddess who once ruled beside him, the same goddess who condemned him. But Roweena isn’t a goddess. She’s a woman trapped by expectations, engaged to a man she doesn’t love, and desperate for a life of her own. As the two are drawn together, their past and present collide. Memories resurface. Powers awaken. And deep beneath the sands of Egypt, a forgotten civilization waits for their return. But what begins as a reunion of lost souls becomes something much bigger, because an ancient enemy, once defeated, has returned with a new name and a darker purpose. A steamy, historical, monster, mythology, fantasy romance, exploring identity, second chances, redemption, the cost of power, what it means to love beyond lifetimes, being shaped by memory, and defying fate and expectations.

[Gleeful Goblin Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gleeful Goblin Review: As someone who had their "goes both ways" awakening via The Mummy circa 1999....I'm in love with this book. I was also super impressed and delighted that one of the minor characters Belzoni was a real person who pretty much did exactly what is described in the book (no spoilers). Roweena reminds me wonderfully of Evie from The Mummy in her love of Egypt and her need to go against the grain of normalcy for being a woman in her time. Roweena is bound by more strict rules than Evie was so I found it really interesting to watch Roweena find herself as well as finding love.

There's a very interesting back and forth between our MMC Vardor and his goddess of the past Vaelora. Very much a love/hate dynamic between them. Because of these two we get to see stories from the past and see the influence of the past on the storyline's present. I found this book to be so much fun and totally engrossing. 5/5 Stars.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Yugie Caroline · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my first Bella Blair book, and I am delightfully in love with it. All throughout as I read it, I kept saying to myself, this could be made into one blockbuster movie! The plot, the romance, the characters, the magic, and the action… all are potentially blockbuster winners. But more than that, what struck me most was the emphasis on the wisdom of the woman, both goddess and human. The male main hero, Vardor, when he was faced with a choice that could affect humanity and the world as he knew it, had to put his complete trust and faith in the goddess he revered and loved. And the goddess did not disappoint, as she relied both on the values prized by both her divinity and humanity in guiding the choice she too had to make in one pivotal moment.

This book has been such a dainty read, and it truly makes me want to sample more of author Bella Blair"s books.

I received a free review copy of this book from the author through BookSirens. This review is given voluntarily.

[Holly Stevens · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rise of the Gods: Vandor’s Destiny by Bella Blair combines Egyptian mythology with a Victorian setting. Bardot was made a god by the goddess Vaelora, but she has him embalmed alive and put to sleep for thousands of years when he betrays her. Rowena is the daughter of a merchant that wants to break into the upper crust by marrying her off to an earl who plans to commit her to an insane asylum within six months. Vandor comes alive, steals her away from the wedding and travels with her to Egypt where she and Vaelora will become one to continue the fight against another Egyptian god who wants to take over the world! Amazing adventure!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Active Mom · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. I’m not sure how intentional Bella Blair was with the existential dilemma that came forward in this telling of love and gods and mortals, but my mind is reeling from it - in a good way. I just finished reading, so it will take me a few days for everything to settle, but this was so beautifully written. A love story that spans millennia, and how that kind of love can evolve. The struggles of emotion when you are not made for it. That’s what sitting with me. That’s what lingers.

Shades of favorite movies/tropes are included - adventure, romance. I’m not sure I found any of it funny, but this wasn’t meant to be. It didn’t need to be. It was an epic adventure.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Deb · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this story totally entertaining. From the sands of ancient Egypt to the Victorian era it had it all. Vardor is a warlord from ancient Egypt who falls for the goddess Vaelora. He incurs her wrath from a perceived betrayal however and is entombed as a mummy for ten thousand years until she has need of him and he is awaken to the Victorian era and Roweena. Roweena is the daughter of a wealthy merchant who plans to marry her to a Duke to increase his station in life. From there there is plenty of drama and intrigue to keep you reading on. Will Vardor and Vaelora ever get their happy ending? And what about poor Roweena? Check it out to see.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Angela Nichols · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story gripped me and kept me reading all day! Roweena has always wanted to travel and be more and see more, but has been forced by society to be stuck in her class. Then she gets taken from her wedding by Vardor and goes on this amazing adventure as she finds out who she really is.
This story was well developed and well written. While Vardor has always been devoted to his goddess, Roweena has to come to the feelings of love. I loved reading this journey and seeing these feelings come to pass.
The ending was different and if wasn’t a cliff hanger, it just set up the book for hopefully more in a series. I truly hope more is coming and we get to keep seeing these two grow stronger and even closer together.

I did receive an ARC from Booksprout and this is my honest opinion.

[Nikki Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

A story that crosses the centuries and the sands of time. From the time of the Egyptian Gods to Regency England and reincarnation. An intriguing story that follows Vardor and his love for the goddess Vaelora. Left inside a sarcophagus for centuries, it is Rowena that brings him back to life. Trapped in a world where women have no rights and are thought of as commodities, Rowena finds herself trapped and desperate for freedom. Attracted to the stories of Egypt, she finds herself drawn to the sarcophagus not realising that she will be the one to awake Vardor. A story of God's and Goddesses, drama, betrayal, action and a love that spans time.

[Kathi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dual Chapters - Gods and Mortals!

An interesting take. We follow Vardor, who is from ancient times, and beholding to his Goddess Vaelora. In alternating chapters we follow Roweena, engaged (by her father’s blackmail) to Thomas Ashford, the third Earl of dunmere. In a time when a woman has no power and very little say, she makes a startling discovery about Thomas’ plan after they are married.

When a barbarian crashes into the church and carries her away from the altar, the reader is not sure if that is for the best, or if she has just gone from the frying pan into the fire.

An intriguing read.

***** I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book *****

[Jenia Tortora · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a romance novel mashup and it’s amazing!! Part regency novel meets a monster romance with an otherworldly flair. Vandor is a reawakened god who needs to find his mate that’s trapped in a mortal form. Roweena/Vaelora is not sure if this new version of her life is better or worse than the fate her father and fiancée had planned for her but she’s on the ride of her life as everything she thought she knew is about to change. Sucks you in and you won’t want to put the book down at all.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Patty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Destiny Indeed!
What an interesting story idea! I really enjoyed watching Roweena, Vardor and Vaelera emerging from their own personal stories to merge into this unique path connected to a battle invoving the gods. The inner struggles of the characters really made the relationship challenges and hard decisions so realistic. Entertaining right to the HFN end!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Donna Zug · Rating 5 out of 5]

A story of love thru the centuries, of longing, fear, the freedom to make choices and mistakes, and the chance for Roweena to be herself - with no restrictions. For Vardor, the choice is hard. Does he wake his goddess and lose Roweena or not wake Vaelora and lose her?
A well written story that will pull you in, full of drama, a god and goddess, Victorian restrictions, fear, danger and the excitement of the unknown.

[Trixie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book has a unique twist compared to the other ones I’ve read by this author! It blends mythology with a story about gods and goddesses, featuring a reawakened mummy who captures the heart of a Victorian miss. There are some fun twists in the plot that kept me curious about what lies ahead for the children of our main characters. It was definitely an intriguing read!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Hannah-Marie Gerle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! It was the perfect combo of amazing story telling with spicy romance! I loved the Egyptian history that was put into the story and how everything was so well-explained and created a vivid picture in your mind. The main characters had great chemistry and their interactions gave me all the feels! I definitely recommend to anyone who is a fan of romance and Egyptology!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Fay J · Rating 5 out of 5]

This did very much put in mind the film "The Mummy" due to the era and the general them however this is as close as it truly got though. Vardor and Roweena were a couple not without issues and some very difficult choices. Roweena facing choices being made for her by the men in her life, as was typical in those days. Vardor chasing a love through the ages and ultimately having to maybe even let go.

[Robert Foland · Rating 4 out of 5]

""Rise of the Gods: Vardor's Destiny: Time for Monsters Romance" is a captivating historical romance with an intriguing twist. Bella Blair guides readers on an enchanting journey through time, crafting a world within a world. The narrative spans thousands of years, blending romance with moments of darkness. It is a tale older than the pyramids, offering a literary experience well worth undertaking.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[A. Poole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hot historical romance of a warrior who fights in honor of his lady. I loved Vardor he just wanted to be with his goddess even though he betrayed her. Then Rowena comes back as her reincarnation and he cant help himself. He takes her and loves her and she is happy about it because she escapes a life she didn’t want. So it was a hot fun story.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Taara Amrine · Rating 5 out of 5]

The time flashes and ideals are well written. Although, I'm pretty sure that giving Egypt a lifespan of over 10,000 years is a stretch, it is still a true romantic vision. Can the gods really impact our world? What is really beneath the sands of Egypt? While set in a time of more than 100 yrs from today, the details and storyline are an intriguing read to make a reader think.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[JLH · Rating 4 out of 5]

Historical romance with good research. Thousands of years with off and on tormented sleep until forgiveness is not earned but fate has made it necessary. Vaelora is the woman he's always been dedicated to. How to make this couple work will take ingenuity. Action and reaction might seal the deal. Interesting read to like.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Leah Drake · Rating 3 out of 5]

The story was a little slow to start and then pick up and I couldn’t put it down. Was a fun and quick read once it picked up. The story is full of love and betrayal with some mystery mixed in. I would love to give this book more than 3 stars but I couldn’t get past the same thing being said over and over again just being reworded.

[Esmeralda Silva Tenazinha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Valora/Rowena and Valdor
I loved this book and I hope we have four more books??? I want to know what happens Next really! They book is amazing, we have a lot of the Mummy vibes and I loved everything. From Rowena being set free, to Valora becoming human. Valdor is perfection and these could BE a series really. They book has a happy ending but there could BE so much more. Loved it!

[Anne-Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Vardor, a High Warlord, was turned into a god by his love, Vaelora, a goddess. She was all about balance, right or wrong. Unfortunately she had no emotions, couldn’t return his love. Hurt and betrayed, she put him asleep for thousands of years. When she finally woke him up, she told him to find her. And find her he did…..as she was getting married! That’s when things went from bad to worse.

[Anna Svoboda · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Mummy but the mummy is really hot, so... The Mummy? :D No, really, if you loved the movie, you will love this book. I'm usually not the one for star-crossed lovers trope but it's extremely well done here. I love how both of the characters grew and the ending? Wow, I really hope there will be more about the other characters mentioned.