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Labyrinth of Gods #1
Lost and Stolen Gods
Gods aren’t born, they’re made.
I should have died the same night that a monster murdered my grandmother, but I was saved, stolen from my world, and thrown into a realm ravaged by an endless war between ancient gods called Asura.
I’m told that I’m a demigod, that there are others like me, brought to this world to replenish their dwindling numbers. They want us to prove we’re worthy of ascension and fight alongside them.
I don’t give a damn about their war. All I want is vengeance on the monster that killed my only family. A monster from their world. And if the only way to kill it is to become a god, then I’m all in.
But the path of ascension is paved with dangerous tests, culminating in a lethal trial called the labyrinth of gods.
Only an ancient fire elemental has the power to help me survive it.
His wicked mouth sets my pulse racing, and his dark threats turn my blood to ice. Charismatic and terrifying, he attracts and repels me in equal measure, and I have no doubt he’d snap my neck in a heartbeat if freed from the magical bonds that compel him to aid me.
He hopes to be my undoing, and if I’m not careful I may not make it to the labyrinth alive.
To claim the vengeance that I desire, I’ll need to protect my body and shield my mind, but most of all, I’ll need to guard my heart.
Enter an Otherworldly realm filled with gods, monsters, and mystical beings. Opposites attract and love and conflict collide, in this forced proximity romance.
I should have died the same night that a monster murdered my grandmother, but I was saved, stolen from my world, and thrown into a realm ravaged by an endless war between ancient gods called Asura.
I’m told that I’m a demigod, that there are others like me, brought to this world to replenish their dwindling numbers. They want us to prove we’re worthy of ascension and fight alongside them.
I don’t give a damn about their war. All I want is vengeance on the monster that killed my only family. A monster from their world. And if the only way to kill it is to become a god, then I’m all in.
But the path of ascension is paved with dangerous tests, culminating in a lethal trial called the labyrinth of gods.
Only an ancient fire elemental has the power to help me survive it.
His wicked mouth sets my pulse racing, and his dark threats turn my blood to ice. Charismatic and terrifying, he attracts and repels me in equal measure, and I have no doubt he’d snap my neck in a heartbeat if freed from the magical bonds that compel him to aid me.
He hopes to be my undoing, and if I’m not careful I may not make it to the labyrinth alive.
To claim the vengeance that I desire, I’ll need to protect my body and shield my mind, but most of all, I’ll need to guard my heart.
Enter an Otherworldly realm filled with gods, monsters, and mystical beings. Opposites attract and love and conflict collide, in this forced proximity romance.
462 pages, Paperback
First published April 4, 2025
582 people are currently reading
8663 people want to read
About the author
Debbie Cassidy
134 books2,813 followersDebbie Cassidy lives in England, Bedfordshire, with her three kids and very supportive husband. Coffee and chocolate biscuits are her writing fuels of choice, and she is still working on getting that perfect tower of solitude built in her back garden. Obsessed with building new worlds and reading about them, she spends her spare time daydreaming and conversing with the characters in her head. She writes Urban Fantasy, Romance, Fantasy and Reverse Harem Fantasy. All her books contain plenty of action, romance and twisty plots.
Connect with Debbie via her website at https://debbiecassidyauthor.com, email her at debbiecassidyauthor@gmail.com or check her out on twitter https://twitter.com/authordcassidy Sign up to her newsletter to grab a free short story, and stay up to date on new releases: http://www.subscribepage.com/f6u2k8 Or join her reader group on Facebook to stay in the know: https://www.facebook.com/groups/17595...
Connect with Debbie via her website at https://debbiecassidyauthor.com, email her at debbiecassidyauthor@gmail.com or check her out on twitter https://twitter.com/authordcassidy Sign up to her newsletter to grab a free short story, and stay up to date on new releases: http://www.subscribepage.com/f6u2k8 Or join her reader group on Facebook to stay in the know: https://www.facebook.com/groups/17595...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 255 reviews
September 7, 2025
I enjoyed this new series by Debbie Cassidy. The world building, the lore and the characters besides the main but we'll get to that in a second.
I did enjoy the break of a book where our lead is not having sex with any and everybody right away. There just something about a good slow burn but I still haven't quite gotten use to how in almost every book by this author our lead will have a relationship with at least three men. You can see the possible in this book but so far nothing goes beyond friendship level so that was a refreshing change.
This world is interesting although, the whole humans being essentially pulled into slavery to fight someone else's war and the reward is power was infuriating to say the least. I also didn't like that there were some disagreement on it with the characters but was kind of let go and there was no fight. This world is the biggest red flag and I did like how they all still voiced their displeasure on how their freedom is basically gone and the society hierarchy has a slew of issues.
Okay now on to our girl Leela, I liked & disliked her character. By dislike, she's so desperate for this man that openly despise her and physically assaults her on a few occasions. Now, I can understand why he was so angry cause I would have been too but the whole situation was not her fault so him taking his anger out on her because it was the easiest thing did not sit well with me. And she just keeps trying to make some kind of relationship with him and taking his abuse and insults like please sir can I have some more! Now I did agree when he delivered a nasty read to her about her lack of self-worth because she needed to hear it.
Now even though I had to drag her and yell girl stand up!, I am intrigued on where Leela story will go, especially after the cliffhanger of an ending.
I did enjoy the break of a book where our lead is not having sex with any and everybody right away. There just something about a good slow burn but I still haven't quite gotten use to how in almost every book by this author our lead will have a relationship with at least three men. You can see the possible in this book but so far nothing goes beyond friendship level so that was a refreshing change.
This world is interesting although, the whole humans being essentially pulled into slavery to fight someone else's war and the reward is power was infuriating to say the least. I also didn't like that there were some disagreement on it with the characters but was kind of let go and there was no fight. This world is the biggest red flag and I did like how they all still voiced their displeasure on how their freedom is basically gone and the society hierarchy has a slew of issues.
Okay now on to our girl Leela, I liked & disliked her character. By dislike, she's so desperate for this man that openly despise her and physically assaults her on a few occasions. Now, I can understand why he was so angry cause I would have been too but the whole situation was not her fault so him taking his anger out on her because it was the easiest thing did not sit well with me. And she just keeps trying to make some kind of relationship with him and taking his abuse and insults like please sir can I have some more! Now I did agree when he delivered a nasty read to her about her lack of self-worth because she needed to hear it.
Now even though I had to drag her and yell girl stand up!, I am intrigued on where Leela story will go, especially after the cliffhanger of an ending.
April 8, 2025
There's literally only one bed and he makes her sleep on the floor but turns out he gave her his warmest comfiest furs WHY AM I INTO THIS UGH so good. This was also my first time reading a romantasy inspired by Hindi mythology with a heroine of Indian heritage and it was incredible. We need more of this in the genre/I need to read more of this!!
What to Expect:
—Slowburn Tension
—Forced to Bond
—Grumpy/Sunshine
—He Wants Her Gone
—Bathing Scene 👀
Enormous thank you to Debbie Cassidy for providing me an eARC!!
What to Expect:
—Slowburn Tension
—Forced to Bond
—Grumpy/Sunshine
—He Wants Her Gone
—Bathing Scene 👀
Enormous thank you to Debbie Cassidy for providing me an eARC!!
April 25, 2025
Lost & Stolen Gods is the first book in the Labyrinth of Gods series.
You have:
⭐Romantasy
⭐Forced Proximity
⭐loosely based on Hindu gods
⭐Mythology
⭐Found Family
⭐Fated/Bonded Mates
⭐Enemies to Lovers
⭐Slow Burn
⭐Deadly Trials
⭐Grumpy/Sunshine
⭐Cliffhanger
So, this took me a a little to get into. I had to keep going back to the glossary and remember what the words meant. But once I picked up on those, I couldn't stop. I am so captivated by the world Debbie Cassidy has created. As a fan of ANY Mythological stories, it made it so much better. Leela went through so much and doesn't seem to stop. Definitely looking forward to reading the next book!
You have:
⭐Romantasy
⭐Forced Proximity
⭐loosely based on Hindu gods
⭐Mythology
⭐Found Family
⭐Fated/Bonded Mates
⭐Enemies to Lovers
⭐Slow Burn
⭐Deadly Trials
⭐Grumpy/Sunshine
⭐Cliffhanger
So, this took me a a little to get into. I had to keep going back to the glossary and remember what the words meant. But once I picked up on those, I couldn't stop. I am so captivated by the world Debbie Cassidy has created. As a fan of ANY Mythological stories, it made it so much better. Leela went through so much and doesn't seem to stop. Definitely looking forward to reading the next book!
April 15, 2025
I loved how Hindu mythology was woven into this magical and lush world. If you enjoy your romances burning slow and packed tons of angst, grab this one asap!😍✨
Leela is of Hindu descent and was raised by her grandmother. Everything seems normal—until she’s driving to her grandma’s house after a breakup with her fiancé and suddenly gets kidnapped by ghosts and pulled through a portal into another world with several other women. There, they discover they’re demi-gods and must train for battle and prepare for their ascension into godhood.
Araz is a warrior tasked into aiding Leela with her training and ascension. That’s the last thing he wants to do! He’s grumpy and mean, wants nothing to do with her! Prepare for banter filled dialogues and lots of tension!
Leela is of Hindu descent and was raised by her grandmother. Everything seems normal—until she’s driving to her grandma’s house after a breakup with her fiancé and suddenly gets kidnapped by ghosts and pulled through a portal into another world with several other women. There, they discover they’re demi-gods and must train for battle and prepare for their ascension into godhood.
Araz is a warrior tasked into aiding Leela with her training and ascension. That’s the last thing he wants to do! He’s grumpy and mean, wants nothing to do with her! Prepare for banter filled dialogues and lots of tension!
April 4, 2025
Lost and Stolen Gods is the book you’re going to want to read this year. It will grab you, keep you page-turning, and absolutely begging for more when you reach the end. Trust us...we yowled at the end. This cliffhanger...it’s a beast.
Meet Leela. She’s about to go through a break-up, head home, and have her life upended. All in a matter of hours! Talk about a rollercoaster ride, right? Whelp, that’s about the jist of it to be honest. Leela gets swept up (that’s putting it nicely) to a world she has known little to nothing about. Here she learns about a devouring darkness that threatens all. It is unrelenting and she is need to become a god to help keep it at bay and eventually stop it. Can she?
Cue a bonding ceremony that ties her to a reluctant male. And yep, cue romantic angst, push and pull between them, and is that the spark of a potential romance with another? Ah! Just give it all to me, right?!
This book is packed with so much goodness you’ll be begging for the author for book two. I can’t wait to find out what happens next!! This series sounds like it is going to be a-mazing!!
Meet Leela. She’s about to go through a break-up, head home, and have her life upended. All in a matter of hours! Talk about a rollercoaster ride, right? Whelp, that’s about the jist of it to be honest. Leela gets swept up (that’s putting it nicely) to a world she has known little to nothing about. Here she learns about a devouring darkness that threatens all. It is unrelenting and she is need to become a god to help keep it at bay and eventually stop it. Can she?
Cue a bonding ceremony that ties her to a reluctant male. And yep, cue romantic angst, push and pull between them, and is that the spark of a potential romance with another? Ah! Just give it all to me, right?!
This book is packed with so much goodness you’ll be begging for the author for book two. I can’t wait to find out what happens next!! This series sounds like it is going to be a-mazing!!
April 29, 2025
This was... messy.
There was too much going on.
The terminology was excessive to the point of distraction, and I gave up trying to remember what they all meant, and eventually I stopped caring. The undercooked love rectangle was stupid, and I struggled to understand what it was about Leela that Ravi and Pashim found soooo irresistible. Because ol' girl was pathetic. Okay, she'd lost her only living family member, so her desperation for love/affection/belonging was the driving force of her personality, much to the detriment of her self-respect. For example, Araz, the fourth member of the aforementioned love rectangle, was an unapologetic asshole - with good reason, mind you - and yet, Leela kept metaphorically banging her head against his obvious disdain in the hope that she could wear him down with her stubbornness. Yet, when that assholery escalated, she stood there and took it. Self-esteem? She doesn't know her.
Also, Pashim? Very convenient...
It all came to a very predictable ending and I have no inclination to continue with this series.
There was too much going on.
The terminology was excessive to the point of distraction, and I gave up trying to remember what they all meant, and eventually I stopped caring. The undercooked love rectangle was stupid, and I struggled to understand what it was about Leela that Ravi and Pashim found soooo irresistible. Because ol' girl was pathetic. Okay, she'd lost her only living family member, so her desperation for love/affection/belonging was the driving force of her personality, much to the detriment of her self-respect. For example, Araz, the fourth member of the aforementioned love rectangle, was an unapologetic asshole - with good reason, mind you - and yet, Leela kept metaphorically banging her head against his obvious disdain in the hope that she could wear him down with her stubbornness. Yet, when that assholery escalated, she stood there and took it. Self-esteem? She doesn't know her.
Also, Pashim? Very convenient...
It all came to a very predictable ending and I have no inclination to continue with this series.
April 23, 2025
Well I absolutely loved this book! The Hindu mythology inspired world building was intriguing and the author’s take on it unique. The FMC as well as many of the other characters were of South Asian heritage and I appreciated the representation.
Leela was such a fierce and sassy FMC, I loved her. Her life is turned upside down but she handles every curve ball as best as she can while remaining questioning of everything. I loved how she brought the trainees together and they became a close knit group and instead of rivals. And Blue was such a freaking delight, the little rat had me cackling especially at his insults at Araz that were more complements 😂.
Araz. Oh my heart hurt for him. He was disgusted by Leela and I don’t even blame him and neither did she. He was so close to freedom. Despite his hate he still found ways to care for her. The tension between these two was so delicious. But Pashim was a treasure and I can say no more.
This was a fantastic first book in a series that is bound to be epic as we start unraveling the true plot. The villain is pretty obvious to me but that didn’t make the story any less compelling.
Thanks to MTMC Tours and the author for the review copy, thoughts are my own.
Leela was such a fierce and sassy FMC, I loved her. Her life is turned upside down but she handles every curve ball as best as she can while remaining questioning of everything. I loved how she brought the trainees together and they became a close knit group and instead of rivals. And Blue was such a freaking delight, the little rat had me cackling especially at his insults at Araz that were more complements 😂.
Araz. Oh my heart hurt for him. He was disgusted by Leela and I don’t even blame him and neither did she. He was so close to freedom. Despite his hate he still found ways to care for her. The tension between these two was so delicious. But Pashim was a treasure and I can say no more.
This was a fantastic first book in a series that is bound to be epic as we start unraveling the true plot. The villain is pretty obvious to me but that didn’t make the story any less compelling.
Thanks to MTMC Tours and the author for the review copy, thoughts are my own.
March 8, 2025
I… AM..: OBSESSED!! Easily my top read of the year!
This is FBAA/Hunger Games/Divergent vibes with mega angst and tension in this slow burn Romantasy.
This was exciting right out of the gates that I couldn’t put it down. The world building is beautiful, all the characters in this are fantastic and the storyline is captivating.
Blue is hysterical!! The FMC is feisty and authentic. The MMC is broody and delicious. Their push and pull and tension is delicious and I am so invested in this world.
THAT… THING THAT HAPPENSSSSSSSSS. You gotta read to know, but my god!! I was screaming!
The cliff hanger ughjjjj
This has everything I love about high fantasy. Vengeance, forced proximity, trials and tests, secrets and mystery, nothing is as it seems…
All the stars!
This is FBAA/Hunger Games/Divergent vibes with mega angst and tension in this slow burn Romantasy.
This was exciting right out of the gates that I couldn’t put it down. The world building is beautiful, all the characters in this are fantastic and the storyline is captivating.
Blue is hysterical!! The FMC is feisty and authentic. The MMC is broody and delicious. Their push and pull and tension is delicious and I am so invested in this world.
THAT… THING THAT HAPPENSSSSSSSSS. You gotta read to know, but my god!! I was screaming!
The cliff hanger ughjjjj
This has everything I love about high fantasy. Vengeance, forced proximity, trials and tests, secrets and mystery, nothing is as it seems…
All the stars!
April 4, 2025
Lost and Stolen Gods was a slow burn for me, but once I got into it, I found it hard to put down. The world-building felt a bit complicated at times, but the character development was strong. The dynamic between the characters had an “enemies to friends” feel, which added depth to their interactions.
This book has lots of angst and sizzle, but the author’s writing still tugs at your heartstrings in certain moments. While parts of the plot felt a bit predictable, the journey was still engaging enough to keep me invested. Overall, I enjoyed it and am excited to read the next book to continue Leela’s story!
This book has lots of angst and sizzle, but the author’s writing still tugs at your heartstrings in certain moments. While parts of the plot felt a bit predictable, the journey was still engaging enough to keep me invested. Overall, I enjoyed it and am excited to read the next book to continue Leela’s story!
March 3, 2025
This is really good. It's kind of like a God version of Fourth Wing...ish. LOVED this story! Leela loses two people she loved and/or deeply cared about, while being bound to someone who was trying to reject the bond. After losing the second person she grew to care so deeply about, they decide to make an oath to let the bond form completely and Leela promises to release him from the bond once she ascends... Only for this oath between them to kind of blow up in their faces.
CanNOT wait for the second book!
CanNOT wait for the second book!
March 29, 2025
I loved this new world Debbie created. Great world building. Plot focused. Nothing is felt rushed. Enemies to maybe lovers. Demigods. Action. Deadly trials. Laughs. Tears. Found family.
Leela is stolen from her life on Earth and thrust into a world full of gods. She has a rough go of it from page one. I’m not even kidding. Just one thing after another. Luckily she finally finds a good group of friends to help her through even more awful times.
Classic Debbie with the cliff at the end. I was hoping it would happen like that too! Can’t wait to see what happens next. It will definitely be tense in the best way possible.
Definitely recommend this one. Join the ride with me!
Leela is stolen from her life on Earth and thrust into a world full of gods. She has a rough go of it from page one. I’m not even kidding. Just one thing after another. Luckily she finally finds a good group of friends to help her through even more awful times.
Classic Debbie with the cliff at the end. I was hoping it would happen like that too! Can’t wait to see what happens next. It will definitely be tense in the best way possible.
Definitely recommend this one. Join the ride with me!
October 23, 2025
4.5⭐️ This was one of the most unique stories I have ever read. We get a romantasy inspired by Hindu mythology which I thought was super cool and informative in a way. Our FMC Leela was truly a survivor or her circumstances and I rocks with her. Araz was exuding tension bow string tight and very enjoyable spicy moments. Like the things he was saying to her 😩🙌🏾 The ending had me shocked but also not. The more I think about it Im kinda not surprised thats how it ended. Still enjoyed this book soooo much.
March 10, 2025
This has been an amazing journey into the Hindu Pantheon and lore. Leela learns she’s not what she thought she was. Raise by her grandma and kidnapped to another realm, Leela learns she is a Demi God and must pass trials to ascend. She’s matched with someone who does not want to be matched with. The only way to break that bond is for one of the pair to die. Leela makes friends in others around her. Her growth and journey are heartfelt and deep. Will she make lasting friendships? Will her bonded person come around to learn to work with her?
February 6, 2025
Oh! I am excited for more! Seriously, Debbie did an amazing job with this new world, the characters, and everything in between!
I can't help but wonder if this library is linked to the same one in The Helsing Order!
I can't help but wonder if this library is linked to the same one in The Helsing Order!
April 9, 2025
Lost and Stolen gods is the first book in a brand new series and it was absolutely fantastic and I can’t wait to read more about these characters and explore this new world.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 26, 2025
My first Debbie Cassidy and I loved it
June 23, 2025
Ugh! I can’t decide what I feel about the rating
I suppose I’ll call it 3.5. I wish I could rate it higher but the cons here are big and distracting.
The story is pretty good. Original. At least more so than most books in this genre.
The cons… the terminology that is used makes it difficult to read and is rather confusing at times. I do not want to read a book that I have to continuously look back at a super long reference list to understand what is going on. It completely takes you out of the story. Often. Which is not something a reader wants.
There are also sooooo many characters to try to keep straight. Too many.
The MFC throughout the entire book is, well, she’s annoying. She’s so needy for attention, male attention particularly, that it takes so much away from her character and her purpose. She pays far more attention to wanting to be wanted than anything else. Her level of desperation is so high I get embarrassed for the girl and she’s not actually real. It’s always at the forefront. ALWAYS. She’s oblivious of what’s happening around her, the most important things anyhow. It’s really frustrating and that desperation and neediness casts as shadow of distraction on the overall story.
I do love her little blue mouse. He’s definitely the best part of the book.
I think her affinity was pretty darn obvious. At least the fire. But the premonitions were a dead giveaway. Her plan to ignore them and stick her head in the sand was foolish.
I suppose I’ll call it 3.5. I wish I could rate it higher but the cons here are big and distracting.
The story is pretty good. Original. At least more so than most books in this genre.
The cons… the terminology that is used makes it difficult to read and is rather confusing at times. I do not want to read a book that I have to continuously look back at a super long reference list to understand what is going on. It completely takes you out of the story. Often. Which is not something a reader wants.
There are also sooooo many characters to try to keep straight. Too many.
The MFC throughout the entire book is, well, she’s annoying. She’s so needy for attention, male attention particularly, that it takes so much away from her character and her purpose. She pays far more attention to wanting to be wanted than anything else. Her level of desperation is so high I get embarrassed for the girl and she’s not actually real. It’s always at the forefront. ALWAYS. She’s oblivious of what’s happening around her, the most important things anyhow. It’s really frustrating and that desperation and neediness casts as shadow of distraction on the overall story.
I do love her little blue mouse. He’s definitely the best part of the book.
I think her affinity was pretty darn obvious. At least the fire. But the premonitions were a dead giveaway. Her plan to ignore them and stick her head in the sand was foolish.
July 9, 2025
This was…not good. Maybe I’ve read too many fantasy books but this seemed to be a combination of Fourth Wing (or really any book with a magical, military school), His Dark Materials, Rain of Shadows and Endings, and more. Basically think of a Romantasy trope and you’ll find it in this book.
It’s always tough when there’s a multi-page glossary as well. There were way too many words that I needed to go back and look up. And midway through the book I just stopped because I didn’t care.
The love interests were meh and there way zero angst, tension or buildup.
Also, about 60% through, the characters all got talking animals? That threw me off so much I thought I’d dreamt it because I was reading late at night. Nope, it was true. But it just came out of nowhere and was never, EVER mentioned that people in this universe could split their soul and then a talking animal would appear. It seemed like the author came up with that midway through writing it and decided it would be a fun add on? But I just took me out of the story and made it tough to continue. ALSO, the FMCs spirit animal (a rat) had a cockney British accent. Which felt very out of place in this universe.
It ended on a very obvious cliff hanger that I just don’t care enough about to continue reading.
It’s always tough when there’s a multi-page glossary as well. There were way too many words that I needed to go back and look up. And midway through the book I just stopped because I didn’t care.
The love interests were meh and there way zero angst, tension or buildup.
Also, about 60% through, the characters all got talking animals? That threw me off so much I thought I’d dreamt it because I was reading late at night. Nope, it was true. But it just came out of nowhere and was never, EVER mentioned that people in this universe could split their soul and then a talking animal would appear. It seemed like the author came up with that midway through writing it and decided it would be a fun add on? But I just took me out of the story and made it tough to continue. ALSO, the FMCs spirit animal (a rat) had a cockney British accent. Which felt very out of place in this universe.
It ended on a very obvious cliff hanger that I just don’t care enough about to continue reading.
March 26, 2025
Oh am I glad I finally got to read a Debbie Cassidy book! Gee whiz, this is my first Debbie Cassidy read, I know, I know...silly is me, but heck, my head nearly snapped off my shoulders at the turn this book took, and that's on PAGE ONE! The punches keep on coming...I immediately loved Leena, tough, collected, majority betrayed Leela, keeps it together in a confrontation no one should ever have to go through. And then she's out... and on her way back to her home town. If she thought that escaping a failed relationship, finding out her fiancé was cheating on her was bad news, oh boy was she in for a surprise of note! What should have been a reunion and embrace with her gentle grandmother, turned into something worse than a horror movie. And she was the leading lady....talk about a mind f**k! If even a tenth of what she was exposed to hit me, I swear I would have thought I was tripping! But Leela, well shoot, there's a toughness that exudes from her, a determination, a resolve like one can't emulate, she's just become my new hero! But that's only a small portion of what Leela goes through, what ensues is a story that gripped me so hard I didn't want to let go, I don't want to let go...
There is really a LOT to deal with in this book! My poor emotions were wrung dry, the pain I felt for Leela was so embedded in me, I was fearful for my sanity, falling deeper and deeper into HER. She had a less than stellar childhood, ostracised, bullied, without any friends, then the betrayal and then THIS happens to her? Her only family member murdered before her eyes, kidnapped, taken to another realm, discovering WHO she really is, meeting a sexy hunk who's supposed to be her protector but who's a d*ck, who hurts her so much, well,my stomach sank lower and lower...the knot in my tummy got tighter and tighter. And then, just as I was ready to dissolve into a right royal mess, this incredibly gifted author introduced a lifeline Leela and I could cling to, in the delightful form of Blue. A familiar of sorts, with an attitude from the moment he appeared. I just burst out laughing and I adopted him the moment he opened his mouth! What a rat! Not the skanky type but a full on rat rat
Oh my word! The building of this world was phenomenal! The plot was tremendously intricate and shrouded in concealed secret after concealed secret. The control of, well everything, is held tightly by these gods, they dictate, they make the rules, they subjugate, there is no free will. Yeah, not benevolent deities as presented, and it took a few mortals, mortals kidnapped by the gods decree, who question this unjust structure. But truth will out and when the revelations abound, they weren't mere bombshells, their effects were like someone had their finger on the switch to detonate a string of atomic bombs... Compounding , compressing until the very end. And although I was kind of expecting it, that ending shook me to my core!
But now to the man of the hour, Araz, who's actually a real d*ck! Granted, a hot specimen that has me drooling but he's still a d*ck. The way he behaves towards Leela, what he says to her, what he does to her, my blood was boiling in rage! Yes, even though I knew there was more going on with him, even though his reason was sound, he had no right to be so cruel. With his cocky, grumpy and all together disagreeable behaviour, I was ready to bop him good and solid! Thank the stars for the likes of Pashim and Ravi. Oh my glory do I adore Pashim! When he told Leela, "There is no bond between us and yet I know you are not mine. The Shakti gave you to Araz, I must not intervene, and yet I find myself unable to stop" my bone marrow melted... He is so loving, so caring, so incredible, I almost wanted Leela to ditch her bond with Araz for him..almost....but as much as I was angry at Araz, I kept hoping... yeah, this author keeps me on the end of her hook, she lures me in, holds onto me tightly, swinging the line back and forth and I'm helpless to escape.
I don't think the author could have given me more enticing characters, I seriously loved them all, even Dharma who came across as very otherwise and hardcore initially, became a warm friend. If anyone was hardcore it was Leela. So much personality exudes from her. She's strong, so different to the rest of the demigods and she has to hide it but it couldn't stay hidden and when it became known, shoot a duck did that cause major problems, as in the "constant danger" problem. But she's all heart, she feels, she reacts, she emotes, and once more I wanted to siddle up to Pashim and hug him for all he's worth when he tells Leela, "I believe your heart to be your strength" But, true to form I've experienced throughout this book, the author did something that turned my innards into lead in disbelief, NOOOOOO! No no no no no!
So while I'm still reeling by the events of this magnificent story, I'm agog at the prowess this author so effortlessly, almost carelessly, cast over her imaginative tale, one with so much depth of character, so much action packed into this sizeable impassioned story, I'll literally be counting down the minutes to the next book! And heck if I don't want to read EVERY Debbie Cassidy book after this!
There is really a LOT to deal with in this book! My poor emotions were wrung dry, the pain I felt for Leela was so embedded in me, I was fearful for my sanity, falling deeper and deeper into HER. She had a less than stellar childhood, ostracised, bullied, without any friends, then the betrayal and then THIS happens to her? Her only family member murdered before her eyes, kidnapped, taken to another realm, discovering WHO she really is, meeting a sexy hunk who's supposed to be her protector but who's a d*ck, who hurts her so much, well,my stomach sank lower and lower...the knot in my tummy got tighter and tighter. And then, just as I was ready to dissolve into a right royal mess, this incredibly gifted author introduced a lifeline Leela and I could cling to, in the delightful form of Blue. A familiar of sorts, with an attitude from the moment he appeared. I just burst out laughing and I adopted him the moment he opened his mouth! What a rat! Not the skanky type but a full on rat rat
Oh my word! The building of this world was phenomenal! The plot was tremendously intricate and shrouded in concealed secret after concealed secret. The control of, well everything, is held tightly by these gods, they dictate, they make the rules, they subjugate, there is no free will. Yeah, not benevolent deities as presented, and it took a few mortals, mortals kidnapped by the gods decree, who question this unjust structure. But truth will out and when the revelations abound, they weren't mere bombshells, their effects were like someone had their finger on the switch to detonate a string of atomic bombs... Compounding , compressing until the very end. And although I was kind of expecting it, that ending shook me to my core!
But now to the man of the hour, Araz, who's actually a real d*ck! Granted, a hot specimen that has me drooling but he's still a d*ck. The way he behaves towards Leela, what he says to her, what he does to her, my blood was boiling in rage! Yes, even though I knew there was more going on with him, even though his reason was sound, he had no right to be so cruel. With his cocky, grumpy and all together disagreeable behaviour, I was ready to bop him good and solid! Thank the stars for the likes of Pashim and Ravi. Oh my glory do I adore Pashim! When he told Leela, "There is no bond between us and yet I know you are not mine. The Shakti gave you to Araz, I must not intervene, and yet I find myself unable to stop" my bone marrow melted... He is so loving, so caring, so incredible, I almost wanted Leela to ditch her bond with Araz for him..almost....but as much as I was angry at Araz, I kept hoping... yeah, this author keeps me on the end of her hook, she lures me in, holds onto me tightly, swinging the line back and forth and I'm helpless to escape.
I don't think the author could have given me more enticing characters, I seriously loved them all, even Dharma who came across as very otherwise and hardcore initially, became a warm friend. If anyone was hardcore it was Leela. So much personality exudes from her. She's strong, so different to the rest of the demigods and she has to hide it but it couldn't stay hidden and when it became known, shoot a duck did that cause major problems, as in the "constant danger" problem. But she's all heart, she feels, she reacts, she emotes, and once more I wanted to siddle up to Pashim and hug him for all he's worth when he tells Leela, "I believe your heart to be your strength" But, true to form I've experienced throughout this book, the author did something that turned my innards into lead in disbelief, NOOOOOO! No no no no no!
So while I'm still reeling by the events of this magnificent story, I'm agog at the prowess this author so effortlessly, almost carelessly, cast over her imaginative tale, one with so much depth of character, so much action packed into this sizeable impassioned story, I'll literally be counting down the minutes to the next book! And heck if I don't want to read EVERY Debbie Cassidy book after this!
January 20, 2026
19/01
Well. Today is my birthday.
Yep. Happy birthday to me.
Which obviously means I should not be starting a new book at 2 AM, considering I still have adult responsibilities like… working in the morning. Very soon. Tragically soon.
But listen. I told myself I’d just try a little. Two chapters. A taste. Famous last words.
First of all?
I will personally fight her fiancé.
The girl did everything for that man. Dropped out of university. Worked two jobs. Helped pay his loans. Built her entire life around him.
And what does he do?
Cheats.
Men. Trash. Next.
NO.
NO FUCKING WAY.
GUYS.
I am literally turning 25.
TODAY.
And the FMC is ALSO turning 25.
ON HER BIRTHDAY.
I write my reviews while listening. This was not planned. This was the universe grabbing me by the shoulders and screaming THIS ONE IS FOR YOU. Destiny. Fate. Cosmic nonsense. I accept.
What happens to Leela right after that hit me hard. It gave me Percy Jackson vibes. You know, being forced to run, discovering the world is far bigger and far crueler than you imagined. Except… darker. Much darker. No fun campfire sing-alongs here.
And then there’s Araz.
Oh. My. Gods.
Arrogant. Insufferable. Sharp-tongued. The kind of asshole you cannot stop bickering with because he lives to provoke you.
Do I like him?
Unfortunately, yes.
The training camp for demigods is brutal. Not just physically. Emotionally. These people had lives. Families. Fiancés. Plans. And now? They’ve been erased. No one remembers them. No one mourns them because, to the world, they never existed.
That kind of loss is horrifying. It’s like grieving everyone all at once… while knowing you don’t even get to be missed.
I’m loving the Hindu mythology woven into the story. Mythology is one of my hyperfocuses, and while I don’t know everything, I know enough to be completely hooked. Also, side note: trying to sleep while listening to a video about Shiva and Parvati was a mistake. I stayed awake for the entire thing because their love story is ridiculously beautiful.
I loved this. Deeply. No notes.
But Araz?
Araz is being cruel.
Not sarcastic-cruel. Not guarded-cruel. Just straight-up emotionally brutal. He’s bonded to Leela, and instead of guiding her, protecting her, or even tolerating her, he abandons her. Lets her struggle. Lets her suffer. Treats her like she’s beneath him.
At least the other drohi show her kindness. Ravi, Pashim, Chaya, Keyton, Priti, Dharma. Without them? I don’t even want to imagine.
This was vile.
Her body reacts because they’re BONDED, you absolute bastard. That wasn’t choice. That wasn’t weakness. That was biology and magic conspiring against her. I hope she ignores him completely until he grovels in the dirt and eats his own pride for breakfast.
Also, Guru Chandra becoming regent?
Yeah. No.
I smell corruption from a mile away.
And then—
HER ANCHOR.
A TALKING RAT.
Everyone gets cool animals. Mythical creatures. Majestic companions.
Leela gets a rat.
And honestly?
Blue is PERFECT.
He talks. He’s sarcastic. He has zero fear. He puts Araz in his place repeatedly. Absolute cinema. I love him. I would die for Blue.
And then…
No.
No no no no no.
I refuse.
I do not accept this.
Not him.
I am crying. At 1 AM. My face will be puffy tomorrow and I do not care because this hurt so much. I genuinely cannot remember the last time a character death hit me like this.
And it ends there.
On that.
Starting this book on my birthday felt like a joke at first. Then it felt like fate. And now it feels like emotional sabotage. The story is brutal, the mythology is rich, the loss is devastating, and Araz is currently on my personal shit list forever.
I am heartbroken, exhausted, and completely hooked.
And I have absolutely no idea how I’m supposed to sleep after that cliffhanger.
Well. Today is my birthday.
Yep. Happy birthday to me.
Which obviously means I should not be starting a new book at 2 AM, considering I still have adult responsibilities like… working in the morning. Very soon. Tragically soon.
But listen. I told myself I’d just try a little. Two chapters. A taste. Famous last words.
First of all?
I will personally fight her fiancé.
The girl did everything for that man. Dropped out of university. Worked two jobs. Helped pay his loans. Built her entire life around him.
And what does he do?
Cheats.
Men. Trash. Next.
I glanced at the glowing numbers on the dash clock that said two twenty-two a.m. “Happy twenty-fifth birthday to me.”
NO.
NO FUCKING WAY.
GUYS.
I am literally turning 25.
TODAY.
And the FMC is ALSO turning 25.
ON HER BIRTHDAY.
I write my reviews while listening. This was not planned. This was the universe grabbing me by the shoulders and screaming THIS ONE IS FOR YOU. Destiny. Fate. Cosmic nonsense. I accept.
What happens to Leela right after that hit me hard. It gave me Percy Jackson vibes. You know, being forced to run, discovering the world is far bigger and far crueler than you imagined. Except… darker. Much darker. No fun campfire sing-alongs here.
And then there’s Araz.
Oh. My. Gods.
Arrogant. Insufferable. Sharp-tongued. The kind of asshole you cannot stop bickering with because he lives to provoke you.
Do I like him?
Unfortunately, yes.
The training camp for demigods is brutal. Not just physically. Emotionally. These people had lives. Families. Fiancés. Plans. And now? They’ve been erased. No one remembers them. No one mourns them because, to the world, they never existed.
That kind of loss is horrifying. It’s like grieving everyone all at once… while knowing you don’t even get to be missed.
I’m loving the Hindu mythology woven into the story. Mythology is one of my hyperfocuses, and while I don’t know everything, I know enough to be completely hooked. Also, side note: trying to sleep while listening to a video about Shiva and Parvati was a mistake. I stayed awake for the entire thing because their love story is ridiculously beautiful.
Life is what you make it, beti, and death will come regardless, so why worry?
I loved this. Deeply. No notes.
But Araz?
Araz is being cruel.
Not sarcastic-cruel. Not guarded-cruel. Just straight-up emotionally brutal. He’s bonded to Leela, and instead of guiding her, protecting her, or even tolerating her, he abandons her. Lets her struggle. Lets her suffer. Treats her like she’s beneath him.
At least the other drohi show her kindness. Ravi, Pashim, Chaya, Keyton, Priti, Dharma. Without them? I don’t even want to imagine.
“Friends?” His mouth turned down in a mixture of disgust and disbelief. “Why would I want to be friends with a sniveling, pathetic creature like you? A woman willing to give her body to a male who openly despises her. You have no self-respect, and you expect me to respect you?”
This was vile.
Her body reacts because they’re BONDED, you absolute bastard. That wasn’t choice. That wasn’t weakness. That was biology and magic conspiring against her. I hope she ignores him completely until he grovels in the dirt and eats his own pride for breakfast.
Also, Guru Chandra becoming regent?
Yeah. No.
I smell corruption from a mile away.
And then—
HER ANCHOR.
A TALKING RAT.
Everyone gets cool animals. Mythical creatures. Majestic companions.
Leela gets a rat.
And honestly?
Blue is PERFECT.
He talks. He’s sarcastic. He has zero fear. He puts Araz in his place repeatedly. Absolute cinema. I love him. I would die for Blue.
And then…
No.
No no no no no.
I refuse.
I do not accept this.
Not him.
I am crying. At 1 AM. My face will be puffy tomorrow and I do not care because this hurt so much. I genuinely cannot remember the last time a character death hit me like this.
And it ends there.
On that.
Starting this book on my birthday felt like a joke at first. Then it felt like fate. And now it feels like emotional sabotage. The story is brutal, the mythology is rich, the loss is devastating, and Araz is currently on my personal shit list forever.
I am heartbroken, exhausted, and completely hooked.
And I have absolutely no idea how I’m supposed to sleep after that cliffhanger.
April 15, 2025
Well. This one took me by surprise! I knew I’d like it, because I like everything Debbie Cassidy writes, but I had NO IDEA I would absolutely fall in love with this one. I wasn’t sure at first, because it really is different. But with each page the story picked up, the action picked up, and boy howdy, did the surprises keep coming!
One of the first things that will stand out about this story is the mythology it’s based on. The layers of multiverses with Gods, Monsters, and everyone in between is enough to keep readers pulled in. But add in the Demigods that thought they were humans, kidnapped, and brought to this whole other world and find out they can’t leave, are expected to fight a seemingly winless war, and train to pass tests – sometimes fatal – to become ascended to full God status? Oh, and we’re all working together for the same goal, not competing with each other (yeah right). That’s a massive story right there, right? Nope. Cassidy’s not done. Here come the drohi.
The drohi, also forced to fight the war, are powerful elementals who’ve known nothing their entire lives but to be trained to become bonded to a demigod one day, protecting and serving – for the rest of their lives. They don’t get to choose who they’re bonded to, nor do the demigods. A soul-entwining-with-a-stranger situation. Enter Araz, the drohi never bonded, and one day away from the freedom he’s always wanted over bonding. As luck (misfortune?) would have it, this is the day he’s bonded to Leela. His outrage, of course, turns on her, and while all her new friends are bonding with and enjoying their time with their drohi, Leela is trying not to get killed by hers. But of course, the bond is strong, and for them, it’s enhancing an attraction that just makes him even more angry.
Even that only scratches the surface! The familiars each one of the demigods has are phenomenal, and Leela’s is absolutely the best (I won’t spoil it and say what it is), with the best personality! Plus, there are the others that take Leela under their wings (so to speak – these guys don’t have wings), and help her train, and take care of her, doing all the things Araz refuses to do. They’re amazing, and I fell in love with them, too.
All of this, plus the non-stop action, culminates in the most…*sigh*….indescribable ending. SO MANY tears. Like, nose running, sobbing tears. But at the exact same time, shock and excitement, and I cannot WAIT to read the next book!
One of the first things that will stand out about this story is the mythology it’s based on. The layers of multiverses with Gods, Monsters, and everyone in between is enough to keep readers pulled in. But add in the Demigods that thought they were humans, kidnapped, and brought to this whole other world and find out they can’t leave, are expected to fight a seemingly winless war, and train to pass tests – sometimes fatal – to become ascended to full God status? Oh, and we’re all working together for the same goal, not competing with each other (yeah right). That’s a massive story right there, right? Nope. Cassidy’s not done. Here come the drohi.
The drohi, also forced to fight the war, are powerful elementals who’ve known nothing their entire lives but to be trained to become bonded to a demigod one day, protecting and serving – for the rest of their lives. They don’t get to choose who they’re bonded to, nor do the demigods. A soul-entwining-with-a-stranger situation. Enter Araz, the drohi never bonded, and one day away from the freedom he’s always wanted over bonding. As luck (misfortune?) would have it, this is the day he’s bonded to Leela. His outrage, of course, turns on her, and while all her new friends are bonding with and enjoying their time with their drohi, Leela is trying not to get killed by hers. But of course, the bond is strong, and for them, it’s enhancing an attraction that just makes him even more angry.
Even that only scratches the surface! The familiars each one of the demigods has are phenomenal, and Leela’s is absolutely the best (I won’t spoil it and say what it is), with the best personality! Plus, there are the others that take Leela under their wings (so to speak – these guys don’t have wings), and help her train, and take care of her, doing all the things Araz refuses to do. They’re amazing, and I fell in love with them, too.
All of this, plus the non-stop action, culminates in the most…*sigh*….indescribable ending. SO MANY tears. Like, nose running, sobbing tears. But at the exact same time, shock and excitement, and I cannot WAIT to read the next book!
April 19, 2025
3.5⭐️⭐️⭐️
Resumen del libro:
La historia comienza con una joven que vive en el mundo humano sin saber quién es realmente. Su vida cambia por completo cuando es secuestrada y llevada a un reino mítico donde habitan dioses y semidioses, inspirado en la mitología hindú. Allí descubre una verdad inesperada: ella es una semidiosa.
Como parte de las antiguas tradiciones de este mundo, la protagonista es unida en una ceremonia mágica con un joven semidiós, el protagonista masculino. Sin embargo, él no desea tener ningún vínculo con ella, mostrándose frío y distante durante casi toda la historia.
A medida que la protagonista se adapta a este nuevo mundo, va conociendo su historia y su poder. Descubre que su abuela fue devorada por un monstruo, y aunque ya está muerta, su alma sigue atrapada dentro de esa criatura. Para liberarla, la protagonista debe matar al monstruo… pero solo un dios puede hacerlo. Su única opción es pasar la temida prueba del laberinto, que puede convertirla en una diosa.
Durante su preparación, entrena, descubre los secretos del mundo divino y forma lazos importantes. Uno de los rituales para proteger su alma implica separarla de su cuerpo: esa parte se manifiesta como una pequeña rata. En el camino se hace amiga de un príncipe cambiaformas y de un guerrero de élite con el que crea un fuerte lazo de amistad. Este guerrero, finalmente, se sacrifica por ella.
Mientras tanto, el protagonista masculino, a pesar de su rechazo inicial, intenta salvarla en momentos clave. Aunque mantiene sus emociones al margen, le propone un trato: la ayudará a convertirse en diosa con la condición de que, al lograrlo, ella lo libere del vínculo que los une. Ella acepta.
Sin embargo, al final se revela que su verdadero objetivo es iniciar una rebelión para arrebatar el poder a los dioses. Él cree que los dioses están manipulando a todos con una guerra interminable contra un enemigo del que solo se oyen historias, pero que nadie ha visto jamás.
La historia culmina con una ceremonia que revela el elemento espiritual de cada semidiós. Mientras la mayoría pertenece a uno de los tres elementos (agua, tierra o aire), la protagonista rompe todos los esquemas: posee tanto el fuego —por su sangre real— como el espíritu, por su conexión con la diosa primordial.
Resumen del libro:
La historia comienza con una joven que vive en el mundo humano sin saber quién es realmente. Su vida cambia por completo cuando es secuestrada y llevada a un reino mítico donde habitan dioses y semidioses, inspirado en la mitología hindú. Allí descubre una verdad inesperada: ella es una semidiosa.
Como parte de las antiguas tradiciones de este mundo, la protagonista es unida en una ceremonia mágica con un joven semidiós, el protagonista masculino. Sin embargo, él no desea tener ningún vínculo con ella, mostrándose frío y distante durante casi toda la historia.
A medida que la protagonista se adapta a este nuevo mundo, va conociendo su historia y su poder. Descubre que su abuela fue devorada por un monstruo, y aunque ya está muerta, su alma sigue atrapada dentro de esa criatura. Para liberarla, la protagonista debe matar al monstruo… pero solo un dios puede hacerlo. Su única opción es pasar la temida prueba del laberinto, que puede convertirla en una diosa.
Durante su preparación, entrena, descubre los secretos del mundo divino y forma lazos importantes. Uno de los rituales para proteger su alma implica separarla de su cuerpo: esa parte se manifiesta como una pequeña rata. En el camino se hace amiga de un príncipe cambiaformas y de un guerrero de élite con el que crea un fuerte lazo de amistad. Este guerrero, finalmente, se sacrifica por ella.
Mientras tanto, el protagonista masculino, a pesar de su rechazo inicial, intenta salvarla en momentos clave. Aunque mantiene sus emociones al margen, le propone un trato: la ayudará a convertirse en diosa con la condición de que, al lograrlo, ella lo libere del vínculo que los une. Ella acepta.
Sin embargo, al final se revela que su verdadero objetivo es iniciar una rebelión para arrebatar el poder a los dioses. Él cree que los dioses están manipulando a todos con una guerra interminable contra un enemigo del que solo se oyen historias, pero que nadie ha visto jamás.
La historia culmina con una ceremonia que revela el elemento espiritual de cada semidiós. Mientras la mayoría pertenece a uno de los tres elementos (agua, tierra o aire), la protagonista rompe todos los esquemas: posee tanto el fuego —por su sangre real— como el espíritu, por su conexión con la diosa primordial.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 22, 2025
4.5 ⭐ Book Summary:
After a traumatic night where Leela witnesses the death of her grandmother, she gets stolen from her world, and thrown into a realm ravaged by an endless war between ancient gods called Asura. Learning she is a demigod, Leela is set on her path to ascension - if she becomes a god, she can get vegenence. To get there, she must face dangerous tests and the only person who can help her want nothing to do with it - he just wants to be free.
Favourite Quotes:
'Monsters aren’t real. That’s what parents tell their children to help them get to sleep, right? Not my grandmother. She always changed the subject when I asked. I guess she didn’t want to lie to me.'
'Books had been my escape. Portals to other worlds where I could be anyone else'
'WHY ARE THE HOT ONES ALWAYS ARROGANT ASSHOLES?'
My Review:
I could not put this book down!!! I started and finished within a couple of days, and I enjoyed it so so much. This is a fantastic start to a series, with the world building developing at a good pace throughout the book - I have many questions and can't wait to learn more.
I love a book with gods and monsters, and this story did not disappoint at all. In a world thats been at war for as long as people can remember, it was so fun to gradually learn more information and backstory for the gods of the world.
Leela is a wonderful FMC, she can be impulsive and full of rage, but she is equally brave and full of compassion. I adore the relationship she builds with the people she meets in this new world.
Araz is just as interesting as our MMC - when we meet him he is arrogant and broody. We slowly learn of his background and things start to fall into place - he has every reason to hate the situation he is in. I love the forced proximity and slow burn topes and they work so well within this story.
Blue is a wonderful companion - brutally honest and sarcastic. I loved the humour he brought to the story.
The ending was so so well done!! Some of it I saw coming, but there was a spin on what was expected that made my jaw drop. I'm so excited for the next book!!
After a traumatic night where Leela witnesses the death of her grandmother, she gets stolen from her world, and thrown into a realm ravaged by an endless war between ancient gods called Asura. Learning she is a demigod, Leela is set on her path to ascension - if she becomes a god, she can get vegenence. To get there, she must face dangerous tests and the only person who can help her want nothing to do with it - he just wants to be free.
Favourite Quotes:
'Monsters aren’t real. That’s what parents tell their children to help them get to sleep, right? Not my grandmother. She always changed the subject when I asked. I guess she didn’t want to lie to me.'
'Books had been my escape. Portals to other worlds where I could be anyone else'
'WHY ARE THE HOT ONES ALWAYS ARROGANT ASSHOLES?'
My Review:
I could not put this book down!!! I started and finished within a couple of days, and I enjoyed it so so much. This is a fantastic start to a series, with the world building developing at a good pace throughout the book - I have many questions and can't wait to learn more.
I love a book with gods and monsters, and this story did not disappoint at all. In a world thats been at war for as long as people can remember, it was so fun to gradually learn more information and backstory for the gods of the world.
Leela is a wonderful FMC, she can be impulsive and full of rage, but she is equally brave and full of compassion. I adore the relationship she builds with the people she meets in this new world.
Araz is just as interesting as our MMC - when we meet him he is arrogant and broody. We slowly learn of his background and things start to fall into place - he has every reason to hate the situation he is in. I love the forced proximity and slow burn topes and they work so well within this story.
Blue is a wonderful companion - brutally honest and sarcastic. I loved the humour he brought to the story.
The ending was so so well done!! Some of it I saw coming, but there was a spin on what was expected that made my jaw drop. I'm so excited for the next book!!
April 4, 2025
Lost and Stolen Gods by Debbie Cassidy is a story about a young woman that gets kidnapped and thrown into a new world just after witnessing her grandma being devoured by a shadow monster. There she finds out she is a demigod , gets bonded to someone who wants to see her fail, and has to train to fight in a war she never knew anything about along with others like her.
Debbie never fails at creating a perfect whole new universe with characters so diverse with their own different personalities, and the world-building is so mind-blowing. So much detail from the environment to the food they eat, the gods, which are also so diverse, the creatures, good and bad, their powers , their history, and their secrets.
And it's totally original, like I have never read before.
The plot... honestly, there are so many plots I can't write the list without giving spoilers, but they captivated me, made me want to read more and more until I got to the end of the book and wanted to scream.
If I had to choose my favorite character...that would be Blue; he makes everything better even in the most painful situations, and those who have read the book know what I mean.
I also loved Leela; she is so strong, and I love the fact that she always follows her heart. She is kind, she is full of love and determination, and she is vengeful. Also, I have to mention that I really resonated with her anger issues.
"Grandma always told me to turn the other cheek. To not let anger rule my heart. Forgive and move on, she said. I'm sorry, Nani, but that's bull*hit!" (Leela)
The one thing I didn't like is that again, I felt for one character that ... died. Whyyyy?
There is no smut in this book, so I can recommend it to anyone who loves a complex paranormal fantasy with strong characters and a bookverse like you have never seen before. I promise you won't regret it.
I regret that I can only give 5 stars. It deserves a lot more.
Debbie never fails at creating a perfect whole new universe with characters so diverse with their own different personalities, and the world-building is so mind-blowing. So much detail from the environment to the food they eat, the gods, which are also so diverse, the creatures, good and bad, their powers , their history, and their secrets.
And it's totally original, like I have never read before.
The plot... honestly, there are so many plots I can't write the list without giving spoilers, but they captivated me, made me want to read more and more until I got to the end of the book and wanted to scream.
If I had to choose my favorite character...that would be Blue; he makes everything better even in the most painful situations, and those who have read the book know what I mean.
I also loved Leela; she is so strong, and I love the fact that she always follows her heart. She is kind, she is full of love and determination, and she is vengeful. Also, I have to mention that I really resonated with her anger issues.
"Grandma always told me to turn the other cheek. To not let anger rule my heart. Forgive and move on, she said. I'm sorry, Nani, but that's bull*hit!" (Leela)
The one thing I didn't like is that again, I felt for one character that ... died. Whyyyy?
There is no smut in this book, so I can recommend it to anyone who loves a complex paranormal fantasy with strong characters and a bookverse like you have never seen before. I promise you won't regret it.
I regret that I can only give 5 stars. It deserves a lot more.
November 26, 2025
A book that captivated me and took me along for the ride. This is a fantasy book with romantic elements. I'd say it's about 60% action and adventure, and 40% romance. Though this is a slow burn, enemies to barely even considering being lovers story.
The world building is done well. In that the reader is learning information at the same time as Leela the MC.
Some aspects of the story are predictable. Like the drohi who has waited for 100 years of service to be free of duties gets bonded literally the night before freedom. Saw that coming from a mile away. Female lead with special abilities/powers that is strange for even this fantastical world. Her anchor is the only one that can speak outloud. You get the idea. Not saying these elements were done poorly. Cassidy makes Leela likeable and understandable as a character. Her snark is what makes the predictability enjoyable.
This book made me cry because Cassidy is good at laying the groundwork for you to like the characters and feel what they're feeling. While some elements were rushed, Leela's relationships to others is done well. Her heartache, was my heartache. And Araz taking over for Pashim? He was still imperfect, still stubborn, and he couldn't just "fix" things between him and Leela.
If you've read a lot of fantasy lately then you may be tired of a beautiful female lead who is desired by many male characters. Though it did not give reverse harem, but more potential suitors vibes. I did like that the world established that the bond between drohi and demigod wasn't always necessarily romantic.
Possible triggers to be aware of: kidnapping, death and injury of characters (both prior to story and during), child endangerment, (implied) cheating.
If you like Hindu folklore, a sassy female leads who doesn't get the guy at the end of the book, war against primordial evil as a backdrop, and training camp and learning to fight stories, you would enjoy this book.
The world building is done well. In that the reader is learning information at the same time as Leela the MC.
Some aspects of the story are predictable. Like the drohi who has waited for 100 years of service to be free of duties gets bonded literally the night before freedom. Saw that coming from a mile away. Female lead with special abilities/powers that is strange for even this fantastical world. Her anchor is the only one that can speak outloud. You get the idea. Not saying these elements were done poorly. Cassidy makes Leela likeable and understandable as a character. Her snark is what makes the predictability enjoyable.
This book made me cry because Cassidy is good at laying the groundwork for you to like the characters and feel what they're feeling. While some elements were rushed, Leela's relationships to others is done well. Her heartache, was my heartache. And Araz taking over for Pashim? He was still imperfect, still stubborn, and he couldn't just "fix" things between him and Leela.
If you've read a lot of fantasy lately then you may be tired of a beautiful female lead who is desired by many male characters. Though it did not give reverse harem, but more potential suitors vibes. I did like that the world established that the bond between drohi and demigod wasn't always necessarily romantic.
Possible triggers to be aware of: kidnapping, death and injury of characters (both prior to story and during), child endangerment, (implied) cheating.
If you like Hindu folklore, a sassy female leads who doesn't get the guy at the end of the book, war against primordial evil as a backdrop, and training camp and learning to fight stories, you would enjoy this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 19, 2025
“No way back, only forward.”
I found Debbie Cassidy through her Gargoyles of Stonehaven series. That series is still one of my all-time favorites. I knew, without a doubt, that this new series would be just as epic and incredible. I was not wrong!
From the very beginning, this book absolutely draws you in! What a way to start!
I knew I was going to relate well to Leela with this line:
“Being on the sidelines was safe; it meant I could observe the world without being observed in turn.”
That resonated with me so much, as that is exactly the way I’ve always been, particularly when I was young. Leela may prefer the sidelines, like myself, but Leela was not born to live there. She has an incredible inner strength, and this awe-inspiring way of accepting what is and fighting to get exactly what she wants. She’s fierce when she needs to be—and watching her slowly grow into her own is going to be so much fun.
Araz is quite the character—and their chemistry was Firey (pun slightly intended) from the start. I absolutely loved their interplay. He clearly has a lot more going on under the surface of that initially grumpy exterior. Honestly, I have absolutely no idea how they’re going to resolve some of the things that come up in this book—but boy do I know it’s gonna be a wild ride!
Once again, the entire cast of characters is utterly phenomenal. They’re all multidimensional and truly intriguing. I see a lot of room for more exploration of this world in future books! Her world building is top notch, with vivid details that really make it come alive. I love the creativity of it, the different creatures, the magic, everything was so much fun to read about! It was so cool! I’d love to see more books like this. They’re so incredibly imaginative!
I honestly cannot say enough about how much I loved this book! 5 huge stars!
I found Debbie Cassidy through her Gargoyles of Stonehaven series. That series is still one of my all-time favorites. I knew, without a doubt, that this new series would be just as epic and incredible. I was not wrong!
From the very beginning, this book absolutely draws you in! What a way to start!
I knew I was going to relate well to Leela with this line:
“Being on the sidelines was safe; it meant I could observe the world without being observed in turn.”
That resonated with me so much, as that is exactly the way I’ve always been, particularly when I was young. Leela may prefer the sidelines, like myself, but Leela was not born to live there. She has an incredible inner strength, and this awe-inspiring way of accepting what is and fighting to get exactly what she wants. She’s fierce when she needs to be—and watching her slowly grow into her own is going to be so much fun.
Araz is quite the character—and their chemistry was Firey (pun slightly intended) from the start. I absolutely loved their interplay. He clearly has a lot more going on under the surface of that initially grumpy exterior. Honestly, I have absolutely no idea how they’re going to resolve some of the things that come up in this book—but boy do I know it’s gonna be a wild ride!
Once again, the entire cast of characters is utterly phenomenal. They’re all multidimensional and truly intriguing. I see a lot of room for more exploration of this world in future books! Her world building is top notch, with vivid details that really make it come alive. I love the creativity of it, the different creatures, the magic, everything was so much fun to read about! It was so cool! I’d love to see more books like this. They’re so incredibly imaginative!
I honestly cannot say enough about how much I loved this book! 5 huge stars!
April 14, 2025
OMG this was FANTASTIC!!
Wow – Debbie Cassidy definitely knows how to build a world – and this one is truly unique. Leela has always grown up weird… but when her so-called normal life blows up in her face, she goes back to the only person who unconditionally loved her – her Nani. But along the way, she had a disturbing dream, and when she finally arrived to her Nani’s house and tells her about the dream, everything went wrong and dream became real. Now that her Nani is gone, seemingly eaten by a shadow monster, and Leela was kidnapped by some strange people telling her things that should never be real, she doesn’t know what is really going on.
Until she arrives at her final destination, Assura, and realizes that all the old stories that were told to her and the others she arrives with were true. Monsters DO exist. And their purpose there is to become a demigod and help fight in the war against monsters. Each of those brought to Assura must go through grueling training and be bonded with a drohi before going thru the final test to ascend which Leela MUST do in order to help save her Nani. Except her Drohi doesn’t want ANYTHING to do with her… at least, at first.
Gah – there was so much that happened in this book, but I don’t want to ruin it for anyone! I just have to say – READ IT!!! I loved all the characters – Leela, Dharma, Blue, Pashim, and even Araz grew on me. I have a feeling in the next book there will be more happening with him!
This world is amazingly crazy and awesome – I want to live there… well, kinda! The imagination that Debbie used to build this world is awe inspiring, and I am so happy that I was able to start diving into this series. I did have to take screenshots of all the different words to refer back to, but I loved every minute of this book – well except the ending a bit because I cried. But outside of that? Amazing.
Wow – Debbie Cassidy definitely knows how to build a world – and this one is truly unique. Leela has always grown up weird… but when her so-called normal life blows up in her face, she goes back to the only person who unconditionally loved her – her Nani. But along the way, she had a disturbing dream, and when she finally arrived to her Nani’s house and tells her about the dream, everything went wrong and dream became real. Now that her Nani is gone, seemingly eaten by a shadow monster, and Leela was kidnapped by some strange people telling her things that should never be real, she doesn’t know what is really going on.
Until she arrives at her final destination, Assura, and realizes that all the old stories that were told to her and the others she arrives with were true. Monsters DO exist. And their purpose there is to become a demigod and help fight in the war against monsters. Each of those brought to Assura must go through grueling training and be bonded with a drohi before going thru the final test to ascend which Leela MUST do in order to help save her Nani. Except her Drohi doesn’t want ANYTHING to do with her… at least, at first.
Gah – there was so much that happened in this book, but I don’t want to ruin it for anyone! I just have to say – READ IT!!! I loved all the characters – Leela, Dharma, Blue, Pashim, and even Araz grew on me. I have a feeling in the next book there will be more happening with him!
This world is amazingly crazy and awesome – I want to live there… well, kinda! The imagination that Debbie used to build this world is awe inspiring, and I am so happy that I was able to start diving into this series. I did have to take screenshots of all the different words to refer back to, but I loved every minute of this book – well except the ending a bit because I cried. But outside of that? Amazing.
March 28, 2025
This book is gonna grab you and drag you into its world. I read this so quickly the first time that I had to go back and read a second time to really savor all the good parts. This book has one of my favorite tropes with enemies to lovers with a slow burn and some angst in there while we wait for the male love interest to finally realize what he wants. Anyways we start off meeting Leela she is struggling with her life especially in the relationship department. After leaving her boyfriend she is swept off to a new world and that’s where the story starts to really get good. We find this new world and start learning about the way this world is set up and functions. Leela meets new friends and of course a couple hotties Araz, who is her assigned warrior of sorts, Pashim a guy who she befriends and grows close to and Ravi another person she has befriended that helps her in training. Araz is her protector but he is reluctant and so this makes life difficult for Leela. As we get further into the story we discover things are not as they seem and even Leela is more than she seems. Oh and my absolute favorite character in this book so far is her anchor a blue rat named Blue that speaks and is absolutely hilarious. He is snarky and speak the truth and is just adorable with his insults towards Araz are so funny. I look forward to seeing more of him in the next book. Again as we get to the end of the book we find out more about Leela and of course this looks like it will cause more problems with Araz and make him even angrier than he started out. I am excited to see what happens in out next book. It’s such a unique story and I’m really loving the world building that is going on and excited to get back into this amazing world.
July 4, 2025
I LOVED IT!
I absolutely loved this book and devoured it so fast! I love Debbie Cassidy already (if you haven’t PLEASE read her Gargoyles of Stonehaven series - it’s amazing) and I just knew I would love this book!
This is an urban, fantasy romance that includes Hindu mythology, Gods, new worlds, monsters, and a primordial evil that cannot be killed…or as far as we know. What’s going to take down and fight this big bad? Demigods! They are bonded to warriors called Drohi, to help fight this big, bad evil.
But Demigods are necessarily born, they’re made. In fact, they are humans plucked from the mortal realm and forced into this new world. And Leela, our FMC, must train to reach ascension to Godhood to be able to fight this evil. However, her warrior, Araz, also our MMC, literally wants nothing to do with her. The tension between these two… MY GOD.
Did I mention this is a serious slow burn, enemies to well frenemies, ONE bed tension filled story? Because it is, and it’s so incredible. Not only the dialogue between these two is top tier but, also all of the side characters as well. The world building is also incredible and so detailed as well. I knew nothing about Hindu mythology and I’m SO interested now. When I say this book held my attention so well, I mean it.
The worlds, the different types of people, the fighting, and all of the steps the potentials have to go through to reach ascension comes across so clearly on the page that the world building wasn’t overwhelming and really had me interested for more.
When I say this book has it all? It truly does. I can’t wait to read the second book! This book has everything you’ll love if you’re into urban fantasy, good vs. evil, slow burn romance and found family. Happy reading all!
I absolutely loved this book and devoured it so fast! I love Debbie Cassidy already (if you haven’t PLEASE read her Gargoyles of Stonehaven series - it’s amazing) and I just knew I would love this book!
This is an urban, fantasy romance that includes Hindu mythology, Gods, new worlds, monsters, and a primordial evil that cannot be killed…or as far as we know. What’s going to take down and fight this big bad? Demigods! They are bonded to warriors called Drohi, to help fight this big, bad evil.
But Demigods are necessarily born, they’re made. In fact, they are humans plucked from the mortal realm and forced into this new world. And Leela, our FMC, must train to reach ascension to Godhood to be able to fight this evil. However, her warrior, Araz, also our MMC, literally wants nothing to do with her. The tension between these two… MY GOD.
Did I mention this is a serious slow burn, enemies to well frenemies, ONE bed tension filled story? Because it is, and it’s so incredible. Not only the dialogue between these two is top tier but, also all of the side characters as well. The world building is also incredible and so detailed as well. I knew nothing about Hindu mythology and I’m SO interested now. When I say this book held my attention so well, I mean it.
The worlds, the different types of people, the fighting, and all of the steps the potentials have to go through to reach ascension comes across so clearly on the page that the world building wasn’t overwhelming and really had me interested for more.
When I say this book has it all? It truly does. I can’t wait to read the second book! This book has everything you’ll love if you’re into urban fantasy, good vs. evil, slow burn romance and found family. Happy reading all!
April 3, 2025
If you're looking for an epic fantasy, I'm telling you, Debbie Cassidy's Lost and Stolen Gods is a must-read.
Debbie has created an incredibly detailed world filled with gods, demigods, and many more supernaturals. I enjoyed the bits and pieces of Hindu culture Debbie integrated into the story; I hadn’t come across anything like it before. Rakshasas, sages, the drohi, mages, and so much more. Plus, the entire thing takes place at a (magical) war college. Complete with training, combat, missions, and magic. The descriptions are amazingly detailed and certainly set the stage.
The characters were fantastic. MFC Leela started a little flaky but quickly transformed into a warrior who has potential, I loved her evolution. Leela is all heart but is very committed to becoming a warrior with the support of her new friends. Debbie knows how to write a good friend group. Leela's found family has her back, which is something she's never experienced before. Speaking of lasting bonds, the character Blue was one of my favorites. He breaks up the seriousness by adding a touch of humor. He certainly had me cackling. The romance was complicated. This could have easily been an RH with a few great candidates, but alas, it's an MF romance. An alphahole is involved, and mystical bonds happen that take forced proximity to a new level. The jury is still out on the MMC; only time will see if he changes my mind.
I loved it! Lost and Stolen Gods was stunning. However, I'm not going to lie, Debbie completely savaged my feelings near the end. Gods, it was brutal. Then there was that ending—not a big cliffhanger, but enough of one to make me wonder where the story will go next.
Debbie has created an incredibly detailed world filled with gods, demigods, and many more supernaturals. I enjoyed the bits and pieces of Hindu culture Debbie integrated into the story; I hadn’t come across anything like it before. Rakshasas, sages, the drohi, mages, and so much more. Plus, the entire thing takes place at a (magical) war college. Complete with training, combat, missions, and magic. The descriptions are amazingly detailed and certainly set the stage.
The characters were fantastic. MFC Leela started a little flaky but quickly transformed into a warrior who has potential, I loved her evolution. Leela is all heart but is very committed to becoming a warrior with the support of her new friends. Debbie knows how to write a good friend group. Leela's found family has her back, which is something she's never experienced before. Speaking of lasting bonds, the character Blue was one of my favorites. He breaks up the seriousness by adding a touch of humor. He certainly had me cackling. The romance was complicated. This could have easily been an RH with a few great candidates, but alas, it's an MF romance. An alphahole is involved, and mystical bonds happen that take forced proximity to a new level. The jury is still out on the MMC; only time will see if he changes my mind.
I loved it! Lost and Stolen Gods was stunning. However, I'm not going to lie, Debbie completely savaged my feelings near the end. Gods, it was brutal. Then there was that ending—not a big cliffhanger, but enough of one to make me wonder where the story will go next.
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