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False Flesh: The World Below
For the past 15 years, Ylva’s life in London with her adoptive family had been good. Challenges arose, like in every person’s life, but her family was always there to back her up, whether she needed another pair of fists or someone to talk to.
However, one day after being called to help with an emergency by her superior on the Red Cross, Ylva finds herself in a freak accident, exposing things about her that were never meant to be discovered. After learning the truth, things change forever.
A dark conspiracy forces Ylva to question everything about herself, her family, and the world. Fleeing from those who want to kill her and those who want to use her, she abandons her life in London.
With enemies dangerously close, she must survive and hopefully prevent a global bloodbath.
Join in uncovering this worldwide conspiracy wrapped up in betrayal, action, murder and love. It is a thrilling mix of action, mystery, and a touch of slow-burn romance, all wrapped up in a complex world of political intrigue.
However, one day after being called to help with an emergency by her superior on the Red Cross, Ylva finds herself in a freak accident, exposing things about her that were never meant to be discovered. After learning the truth, things change forever.
A dark conspiracy forces Ylva to question everything about herself, her family, and the world. Fleeing from those who want to kill her and those who want to use her, she abandons her life in London.
With enemies dangerously close, she must survive and hopefully prevent a global bloodbath.
Join in uncovering this worldwide conspiracy wrapped up in betrayal, action, murder and love. It is a thrilling mix of action, mystery, and a touch of slow-burn romance, all wrapped up in a complex world of political intrigue.
342 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 19, 2025
4 people are currently reading
9 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 ⭐️
Thanks so much to Eira J. Grímnir for choosing me as an ARC reader!
I normally read at bedtime and the day after I finished False Flesh I went to bed and felt sad that I couldn't be in this story anymore 😅
As a romance/romantasy reader this story was so refreshing and different, the mix of conspiracy theories, Greek mythology and on-the-run action had me hooked.
I loved all the side characters. Alexandra, Hector and Lucas were perfect, I understood so much about who they are with little explanation. And I enjoyed having occasional POV chapters outside of the main characters.
I LOVE the female main character Ylva she is a resilient neurodivergent diva! The male main character Riés kept me guessing as I didn't know where his loyalty would lie, he is also a muscular blonde 🔥 how they slowly figure eachother out was very sweet (I cannot say any more without risk of spoilers)
False Flesh is an incredible debut and I can't wait for the next book!!
The phrase "Until Dovre falls" will stay with me 🥹
Thanks so much to Eira J. Grímnir for choosing me as an ARC reader!
I normally read at bedtime and the day after I finished False Flesh I went to bed and felt sad that I couldn't be in this story anymore 😅
As a romance/romantasy reader this story was so refreshing and different, the mix of conspiracy theories, Greek mythology and on-the-run action had me hooked.
I loved all the side characters. Alexandra, Hector and Lucas were perfect, I understood so much about who they are with little explanation. And I enjoyed having occasional POV chapters outside of the main characters.
I LOVE the female main character Ylva she is a resilient neurodivergent diva! The male main character Riés kept me guessing as I didn't know where his loyalty would lie, he is also a muscular blonde 🔥 how they slowly figure eachother out was very sweet (I cannot say any more without risk of spoilers)
False Flesh is an incredible debut and I can't wait for the next book!!
The phrase "Until Dovre falls" will stay with me 🥹
Review of advance copy received from Author
If you enjoyed the episode of doctor who with the lizard people, you're going to love this book. Eira hooked me from the begining with a fast paced, easy to read story. I'm eagerly awaiting the next one!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 20, 2025
Absolute must read! I loved every minute of this book and could not put it down!! Five Stars hands down fantastic!
January 14, 2026
“Thus, the war began.” Wow! If you want an urban fantasy blended with sci-fi/mythical elements put False Flesh on your Tbr now!
Ylva has lived battling sickness as an academic, close to her adoptive family in London. An accident takes her down a wild path where she meets Ries, who is on a military mission.
High stakes adventure, underground race, political intrigue, and amazing storytelling is what you will get when you read False Flesh.
Ylva has lived battling sickness as an academic, close to her adoptive family in London. An accident takes her down a wild path where she meets Ries, who is on a military mission.
High stakes adventure, underground race, political intrigue, and amazing storytelling is what you will get when you read False Flesh.
December 24, 2025
Ylva was living a life that looked ordinary on the surface, university classes, self-defense training, volunteer work with the Red Cross, despite being adopted, chronically ill, and quietly aware that something about her had never quite fit. That fragile sense of normalcy shatters after a violent attack during an emergency call exposes a truth even she didn’t know: Ylva is not entirely human.
What follows is a relentless flight for survival. Alongside her adoptive siblings, Hector and Alexandra, Ylva is hunted by two opposing factions of an ancient reptilian species, one determined to kill her, the other intent on keeping her alive for reasons far worse than death. Nearly captured at every turn, their escape leads them to Riés, a soldier who claims allegiance to neither faction, but to a hidden kingdom beneath the earth that wants Ylva protected.
But trust is dangerous. Is Riés truly her shield…or a Trojan horse sent to destroy her from within?
False Flesh is packed with high-octane action, car chases, ambushes, narrow escapes, and betrayals that cut deep. The tension never lets up, and the chemistry between Ylva and Riés adds an emotional weight that challenges everything he’s been raised to believe, threatening to undo the very loyalties he’s sworn to uphold.
By the final pages, the lines between friend and enemy blur as an inevitable war looms between factions, and I was left desperate to know what happens next.
🔥 A must-read for fans of action-driven urban fantasy, hidden worlds, and morally complex characters.
What follows is a relentless flight for survival. Alongside her adoptive siblings, Hector and Alexandra, Ylva is hunted by two opposing factions of an ancient reptilian species, one determined to kill her, the other intent on keeping her alive for reasons far worse than death. Nearly captured at every turn, their escape leads them to Riés, a soldier who claims allegiance to neither faction, but to a hidden kingdom beneath the earth that wants Ylva protected.
But trust is dangerous. Is Riés truly her shield…or a Trojan horse sent to destroy her from within?
False Flesh is packed with high-octane action, car chases, ambushes, narrow escapes, and betrayals that cut deep. The tension never lets up, and the chemistry between Ylva and Riés adds an emotional weight that challenges everything he’s been raised to believe, threatening to undo the very loyalties he’s sworn to uphold.
By the final pages, the lines between friend and enemy blur as an inevitable war looms between factions, and I was left desperate to know what happens next.
🔥 A must-read for fans of action-driven urban fantasy, hidden worlds, and morally complex characters.
December 28, 2025
A unique, well-written, fast-paced fantasy.
Ylva, who was adopted by her aunt and uncle years ago when her parents passed away, now lives in London, working and volunteering to fulfill her time. She's noticed, over the years, the things that are just a little bit different between her and her cousins, aunt, and uncle. When something tragic happens to her, the differences are forced to the forefront - differences that force her and her cousins to run while her aunt and uncle try to cover their trail.
As the three flee across Europe and Asia, secrets are revealed that force Ylva to examine who she really is and who she can actually trust. When a disguised reptilian soldier from the Underworld comes to their aid, does he really have their best interests in mind? And as this soldier, Ries, is forced to spend more time with Ylva, he discovers she is not the dangerous person his mentors in the Underworld made her out to be, and he begins to question his orders, his beliefs.
This story delves into the stereotypes and prejudices we all have within us based upon doctrines taught by our society that have no basis. How do we overcome those ingrained prejudices to decide the truth based on real-world exposure and interpersonal interaction, to make up our own minds about the facts? Can the opposing sides overcome the stereotypes they've been fed in time to save Ylva and her cousins and prevent a global war?
Ylva, who was adopted by her aunt and uncle years ago when her parents passed away, now lives in London, working and volunteering to fulfill her time. She's noticed, over the years, the things that are just a little bit different between her and her cousins, aunt, and uncle. When something tragic happens to her, the differences are forced to the forefront - differences that force her and her cousins to run while her aunt and uncle try to cover their trail.
As the three flee across Europe and Asia, secrets are revealed that force Ylva to examine who she really is and who she can actually trust. When a disguised reptilian soldier from the Underworld comes to their aid, does he really have their best interests in mind? And as this soldier, Ries, is forced to spend more time with Ylva, he discovers she is not the dangerous person his mentors in the Underworld made her out to be, and he begins to question his orders, his beliefs.
This story delves into the stereotypes and prejudices we all have within us based upon doctrines taught by our society that have no basis. How do we overcome those ingrained prejudices to decide the truth based on real-world exposure and interpersonal interaction, to make up our own minds about the facts? Can the opposing sides overcome the stereotypes they've been fed in time to save Ylva and her cousins and prevent a global war?
December 31, 2025
This sneaked in as one of my favourite reads of the year. It was fast paced, fun and exhilarating. With a feisty, neurodivergent FMC with chronic illness and a brooding MMC I was completely besotted with the pair of them.
The story felt fresh and very different to other things I've been reading lately.
Ylva was adopted by her aunt and uncle following an accident which killed her parents 15 years ago, she works part time for them alongside their children, her adopted sister and brother and they are an incredibly close knit family. Following a freak accident it is revealed that Ylva is more than just human. What follows is a high paced thrilling ride of evasion as Ylva and her siblings try to stay one step ahead of their pursuers and uncover a conspiracy theory that will rock their world and the rest of humankind.
Enter the brooding MMC Riès, a soldier determined to prove his worth, he joins forces with them in order to complete his objectives but the longer he's with them the more he questions everything he's been led to believe.
It's sci-fi, mystery and adventure with slow burn romance so it ticks so many boxes and is definitely on my recommend list.
The story felt fresh and very different to other things I've been reading lately.
Ylva was adopted by her aunt and uncle following an accident which killed her parents 15 years ago, she works part time for them alongside their children, her adopted sister and brother and they are an incredibly close knit family. Following a freak accident it is revealed that Ylva is more than just human. What follows is a high paced thrilling ride of evasion as Ylva and her siblings try to stay one step ahead of their pursuers and uncover a conspiracy theory that will rock their world and the rest of humankind.
Enter the brooding MMC Riès, a soldier determined to prove his worth, he joins forces with them in order to complete his objectives but the longer he's with them the more he questions everything he's been led to believe.
It's sci-fi, mystery and adventure with slow burn romance so it ticks so many boxes and is definitely on my recommend list.
January 11, 2026
“For the first time in his life, he understood why Paris had kidnapped Helen of Troy, regardless of the chaos he knew he would undoubtedly create.”
I absolutely adored this book!! The writing is stunning and I loved the uniqueness of this magical world building. All of the characters are so well rounded and the development throughout the book shows!
The chemistry between Reís and Ylva had me melting!! I could picture perfectly all the scenes including them, especially the festival scene and the river scene 🫣 totally swoon worthy material!!
It was a little confusing at first with the random jumps to different perspectives of randomly introduced characters, but ultimately it actually adds to the plot and rounds out the story. I cannot WAIT for the next book!! The epilogue perspective was crazy,,,
Thank you so so much to Eira for the ARC and I’m so so sorry this review is so late 😭❤️ you’re amazing!!
I absolutely adored this book!! The writing is stunning and I loved the uniqueness of this magical world building. All of the characters are so well rounded and the development throughout the book shows!
The chemistry between Reís and Ylva had me melting!! I could picture perfectly all the scenes including them, especially the festival scene and the river scene 🫣 totally swoon worthy material!!
It was a little confusing at first with the random jumps to different perspectives of randomly introduced characters, but ultimately it actually adds to the plot and rounds out the story. I cannot WAIT for the next book!! The epilogue perspective was crazy,,,
Thank you so so much to Eira for the ARC and I’m so so sorry this review is so late 😭❤️ you’re amazing!!
December 31, 2025
One of the strongest indie releases I’ve come across!
The story is fast-paced and addictive, with twists that genuinely surprised me. I found myself reacting to revelations at the exact same pace as the main character, which made the whole reading experience even more immersive. The plot never feels flat or predictable, and every turn raises the stakes.
The world-building is fantastic. I especially loved the way Greek and Norwegian cultural elements were woven into the story. They add depth, atmosphere, and a distinct identity that makes this book stand out from others in the genre.
The author also delivers a refreshingly different take on the grumpy/sunshine trope. The dynamic feels earned, layered, and emotionally engaging rather than relying on clichés.
And the ending?
A true cliffhanger that immediately made me desperate for the next book.
Book two cannot come soon enough.
The story is fast-paced and addictive, with twists that genuinely surprised me. I found myself reacting to revelations at the exact same pace as the main character, which made the whole reading experience even more immersive. The plot never feels flat or predictable, and every turn raises the stakes.
The world-building is fantastic. I especially loved the way Greek and Norwegian cultural elements were woven into the story. They add depth, atmosphere, and a distinct identity that makes this book stand out from others in the genre.
The author also delivers a refreshingly different take on the grumpy/sunshine trope. The dynamic feels earned, layered, and emotionally engaging rather than relying on clichés.
And the ending?
A true cliffhanger that immediately made me desperate for the next book.
Book two cannot come soon enough.
December 27, 2025
4.5⭐️
This was such a fun and refreshing urban fantasy! Being so different from what I'm used to read, the story feels genuinely original, and I really appreciated how clear and easy the writing was, it made this a very smooth, engaging read.
Ylva, completely stole my heart. She's kind and sweet, but also funny, resilient, and an absolute baddie when she needs to be. I loved her balance of softness and strength. She was by far my favorite part of the book. And Riés? He's an adorable simp in the best way.
While I enjoyed the plot and action, I did find myself wishing for a bit more emotional depth in certain moments. Still, this was a strong, imaginative story with great characters, and I'd definitely recommend it to urban fantasy readers looking for something fresh.
This was such a fun and refreshing urban fantasy! Being so different from what I'm used to read, the story feels genuinely original, and I really appreciated how clear and easy the writing was, it made this a very smooth, engaging read.
Ylva, completely stole my heart. She's kind and sweet, but also funny, resilient, and an absolute baddie when she needs to be. I loved her balance of softness and strength. She was by far my favorite part of the book. And Riés? He's an adorable simp in the best way.
While I enjoyed the plot and action, I did find myself wishing for a bit more emotional depth in certain moments. Still, this was a strong, imaginative story with great characters, and I'd definitely recommend it to urban fantasy readers looking for something fresh.
December 21, 2025
False Flesh is written with a clarity that pulls you straight into its world and doesn’t let go. The prose feels deliberate and emotionally grounded, making each scene easy to visualize while still carrying weight beneath the surface.
What stood out most was how carefully the author handles both the setting and the characters, nothing feels rushed or careless. There’s a sense that every detail matters, which made the story flow naturally and kept me turning pages.
This was an engaging and thoughtful read, especially for readers who enjoy imaginative fiction with a strong sense of atmosphere and intention behind the writing. I am honored and glad I was chosen for this ARC.
What stood out most was how carefully the author handles both the setting and the characters, nothing feels rushed or careless. There’s a sense that every detail matters, which made the story flow naturally and kept me turning pages.
This was an engaging and thoughtful read, especially for readers who enjoy imaginative fiction with a strong sense of atmosphere and intention behind the writing. I am honored and glad I was chosen for this ARC.
December 21, 2025
I devoured this book in a day - and I need book two!!!! The world building and character building is excellent. Eira spins a tale that has you racing into the next chapter to learn what happens next. The plot will surprise you, the character’s backstories will draw you in, and the slow SLOW burn is deliciously satisfying. I loved how the fantastical elements of the characters bring a new twist (without spoiling too much…lizard people!).
Much gratitude to Eira Grimnir for an ARC in exchange for my honest review!
Much gratitude to Eira Grimnir for an ARC in exchange for my honest review!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 14, 2026
Review of advance copy received from Author
Choke it. Bury it. Die.
I can even begin to explain how much I enjoyed reading this.
The twists after twists was perfect. Each time I thought I knew where this story is going, the story proved me wrong.
The tension is delicious and the banter between siblings is realistic.
I truly loves this book and can't wait for the next one. I need to know what happens next.
Choke it. Bury it. Die.
I can even begin to explain how much I enjoyed reading this.
The twists after twists was perfect. Each time I thought I knew where this story is going, the story proved me wrong.
The tension is delicious and the banter between siblings is realistic.
I truly loves this book and can't wait for the next one. I need to know what happens next.
December 21, 2025
Unforgettable and unlike anything else. The storyline is a brilliant, original descent, but it's the fleshed-out characters that truly gut you. The writing is so cinematic, every scene vibrates with tension and imagery. It’s not just read; it’s experienced. I'm in awe.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received a copy from the author.
This amazing novel launches readers into a high-stakes world where identity, loyalty, and survival collide. For fifteen years, Ylva’s life in London has been grounded in the warmth and protection of her adoptive family—a support system that has helped her navigate life’s challenges with resilience and heart. That sense of stability makes the story’s turning point all the more jarring when a routine Red Cross emergency spirals into a freak accident that exposes a truth about Ylva that was never meant to surface. I found this incredibly exciting and unexpected
What begins as a personal reckoning quickly expands into a dark, global conspiracy, forcing Ylva to question everything she thought she knew about herself, her past, and the people she trusts most. Hunted by those who want her dead and others who want to control her, Ylva is thrust into a relentless fight for survival that drives her far from the life she once called home.
The novel balances intense action with emotional depth. Betrayals cut deep, alliances are fragile, and danger is always close, creating a constant sense of urgency. These also romance, slow burn, which is down so well. Adding to the plot and stakes without distracting from the story.
With its blend of action, mystery, political intrigue, and heartfelt moments, this story delivers a gripping ride from start to finish. I would definitely recommend this book to everyone.
This amazing novel launches readers into a high-stakes world where identity, loyalty, and survival collide. For fifteen years, Ylva’s life in London has been grounded in the warmth and protection of her adoptive family—a support system that has helped her navigate life’s challenges with resilience and heart. That sense of stability makes the story’s turning point all the more jarring when a routine Red Cross emergency spirals into a freak accident that exposes a truth about Ylva that was never meant to surface. I found this incredibly exciting and unexpected
What begins as a personal reckoning quickly expands into a dark, global conspiracy, forcing Ylva to question everything she thought she knew about herself, her past, and the people she trusts most. Hunted by those who want her dead and others who want to control her, Ylva is thrust into a relentless fight for survival that drives her far from the life she once called home.
The novel balances intense action with emotional depth. Betrayals cut deep, alliances are fragile, and danger is always close, creating a constant sense of urgency. These also romance, slow burn, which is down so well. Adding to the plot and stakes without distracting from the story.
With its blend of action, mystery, political intrigue, and heartfelt moments, this story delivers a gripping ride from start to finish. I would definitely recommend this book to everyone.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Ylva is the adopted daughter of a family that hides a secret that is big enough to cast two worlds into turmoil.
Not my usual type of read, but a good one all the same. The story is gripping and fast-paced, yet grounded solidly in the characters' perspectives. It is an enjoyable read if you like stuff like Doctor Who, Stargate SG-1 (and its various spin-offs), and stories featuring sci-fi and conspiracy-theories set in our world.
We follow Ylva and her two siblings as they flee from the consequences of a past we get to uncover alongside the MC. Along the way, they are joined by a mysterious outsider who might just prove to be a lot more than he lets on. I won't spoil anything ;)
The worldbuilding shows both great enthusiasm and diligence, and I cannot wait for Eira to start teasing the contents of book 2.
Not my usual type of read, but a good one all the same. The story is gripping and fast-paced, yet grounded solidly in the characters' perspectives. It is an enjoyable read if you like stuff like Doctor Who, Stargate SG-1 (and its various spin-offs), and stories featuring sci-fi and conspiracy-theories set in our world.
We follow Ylva and her two siblings as they flee from the consequences of a past we get to uncover alongside the MC. Along the way, they are joined by a mysterious outsider who might just prove to be a lot more than he lets on. I won't spoil anything ;)
The worldbuilding shows both great enthusiasm and diligence, and I cannot wait for Eira to start teasing the contents of book 2.
Review of advance copy received from Author
(disclaimer: I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.)
Rating: 4.5 ⭐️
This book feels like listening to an old friend tell a tale around the campfire. Modern day elements are twisted with fantastical myths and conspiracies that bring the story to life. It’s easy to follow and will keep you intrigued. I loved the dynamics between the characters and the moral struggles they all faced. A wonderful debut with a fresh perspective blending sci-fi/mythology and the modern world!
I took off half a star because the writing was a little hard for me to get into, it felt a little flat in the beginning. It did improve for me throughout the book, so if you’re not immediately drawn in, I’d say give it a chance and keep going!
Rating: 4.5 ⭐️
This book feels like listening to an old friend tell a tale around the campfire. Modern day elements are twisted with fantastical myths and conspiracies that bring the story to life. It’s easy to follow and will keep you intrigued. I loved the dynamics between the characters and the moral struggles they all faced. A wonderful debut with a fresh perspective blending sci-fi/mythology and the modern world!
I took off half a star because the writing was a little hard for me to get into, it felt a little flat in the beginning. It did improve for me throughout the book, so if you’re not immediately drawn in, I’d say give it a chance and keep going!
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
False Flesh: The World Below was a wonderful and surprisingly unique read. The plot immediately pulled me in, and experiencing a reptilian culture for the first time was fascinating. I didn’t expect to become so invested in the main characters. The story delivered several twists I didn’t see coming, and by the end, I needed to know what happened next.
Ylva felt incredibly real: relatable, strong, and resilient in a way that made her easy to connect with. I especially enjoyed watching Ries learn how to understand and relate to humans, which added depth and emotional growth to the story. A compelling read that stayed with me after I finished.
Ylva felt incredibly real: relatable, strong, and resilient in a way that made her easy to connect with. I especially enjoyed watching Ries learn how to understand and relate to humans, which added depth and emotional growth to the story. A compelling read that stayed with me after I finished.
Review of advance copy received from Author
What an amazing adventure! I was amongst the first ones to receive the unedited version of False Flesh, and I was captivated! Not only by the storyline, but by the storytelling. I recommend it with all my heart, the author is a passionate writer that puts thought in each detail. Great read!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is a well-structured and engaging book. The ideas are clearly presented, and the writing keeps the reader interested from start to finish...
Can't wait for more books from you❤️!
Can't wait for more books from you❤️!
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews