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Hidden Realms #1
Fractured Doors and Forgotten Gods
Riley
Trying to keep my familiar out of the meat display while shopping is the hardest part of my day… until someone drops a god right into my humdrum existence.
Torin, a massive man claiming to be a god, is unlike anyone I’ve ever met. He insists on learning English through adult graphic novels, believes the pizza delivery guy is an assassin, and thinks he can kick a subway into submission (talk about adding a bit of spice to my life, which has been sadly lacking since I left the Magical Interference Unit).
The handsome and strangely charismatic god drags me (literally) right into his problems, starting with a creature who wants to tear my head off, yet I find myself following along with his whims.
He knows something is wrong when Doors to another realm begin to open up, allowing an ominous power to get a foothold in our world… but I’m afraid this quirky god and I might be the only ones keeping this world from ending.
Oh joy.
Torin
I never expected that simply stepping through a Door into Riley’s world would introduce me to so many amazing curiosities, like pizza and burritos! Oh, and a pesky human who really should recognize that I’m a god of war and love—emphasis on the love.
But there’s more to Riley than meets the eye; why else would their special forces place me with a man who can borrow magic from others? My attempts to woo this mystifying human are thwarted at every turn (I doubt that has anything to do with me tossing him on a horse or taking over his bed).
As Riley and I grow closer, I realize that he might be the very person needed to save this realm… because what is coming for them is beyond anything they can comprehend… one even worse than the atrocity called an “escalator.”
Fractured Doors and Forgotten Gods is the first book in a series that has a continuing storyline.
Trying to keep my familiar out of the meat display while shopping is the hardest part of my day… until someone drops a god right into my humdrum existence.
Torin, a massive man claiming to be a god, is unlike anyone I’ve ever met. He insists on learning English through adult graphic novels, believes the pizza delivery guy is an assassin, and thinks he can kick a subway into submission (talk about adding a bit of spice to my life, which has been sadly lacking since I left the Magical Interference Unit).
The handsome and strangely charismatic god drags me (literally) right into his problems, starting with a creature who wants to tear my head off, yet I find myself following along with his whims.
He knows something is wrong when Doors to another realm begin to open up, allowing an ominous power to get a foothold in our world… but I’m afraid this quirky god and I might be the only ones keeping this world from ending.
Oh joy.
Torin
I never expected that simply stepping through a Door into Riley’s world would introduce me to so many amazing curiosities, like pizza and burritos! Oh, and a pesky human who really should recognize that I’m a god of war and love—emphasis on the love.
But there’s more to Riley than meets the eye; why else would their special forces place me with a man who can borrow magic from others? My attempts to woo this mystifying human are thwarted at every turn (I doubt that has anything to do with me tossing him on a horse or taking over his bed).
As Riley and I grow closer, I realize that he might be the very person needed to save this realm… because what is coming for them is beyond anything they can comprehend… one even worse than the atrocity called an “escalator.”
Fractured Doors and Forgotten Gods is the first book in a series that has a continuing storyline.
364 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 2, 2026
About the author
Alice Winters
67 books2,863 followersAlice Winters started writing stories as soon as she was old enough to turn her ideas into written words. She loves writing a variety of things from romance and comedy to action. She also enjoys reading, horseback riding, and spending time with her pets.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
June 7, 2026
Only Alice could create this type of brilliant mayhem
I have absolutely no clue where this series is going to go, but I fully intend to enjoy every step of the journey.
This book is pure bonkers, it's got the creative world building I expect from anything Alice writes, it's funny and also touches the heartstrings in multiple ways.
Riley is your typical reluctant 'hero' type and Torin firstly appears to be an archetypal 'himbo' god but his twin powers of love and war demonstrate there's more than first meets the eye.
With a fabulous set of secondary characters, I loved Mickey and his bunch of multi talented undead, as well as Riley's familiar, and an intriguing plot that didn't go where I thought it would, I'm totally sold on this new series.
I have absolutely no clue where this series is going to go, but I fully intend to enjoy every step of the journey.
This book is pure bonkers, it's got the creative world building I expect from anything Alice writes, it's funny and also touches the heartstrings in multiple ways.
Riley is your typical reluctant 'hero' type and Torin firstly appears to be an archetypal 'himbo' god but his twin powers of love and war demonstrate there's more than first meets the eye.
With a fabulous set of secondary characters, I loved Mickey and his bunch of multi talented undead, as well as Riley's familiar, and an intriguing plot that didn't go where I thought it would, I'm totally sold on this new series.
June 4, 2026
Fractured Doors and Forgotten Gods is an MM paranormal romance! Torin is a God of Love and War and he comes to this dimension, through a door. He is intercepted by the Magical Police Force who want to know who he is and what he is doing in their world. The issue is that Torin doesn’t speak the language.
Cut to- Riley getting groceries with his familiar when is suddenly arrested and taken to the precinct. He meets an old friend who insisted this was the only way she could get him there. They insist he has to talk to this stranger but he doesn’t want too, he left the team years ago and is now a librarian. He, reluctantly, meets up with the tall AF, beefy God- who throws him at this giant wild creature.
Soon they are forced together and as they go on, their attraction grows, and a real danger threatens their world.
I really loved this book! I mean, I always like an Alice Winter’s book but this was so much fun. Honestly l, it reminded me a bit of a funnier version of Hailey Turner’s “A Ferry of Bones and Gold”. It definitely had that vibe. Torin is a bit of a HIMBO, who mostly thinks about sex and is baffled as to why the peasant doesn’t want to sleep with him! Riley is a bitter, sarcastic cutie who loves making Torin uncomfortable.
And a special note for Mickey who is my spirit character!!! I swear his absolute laziness and lack of remorse for it is amazing!!!! The funniest thing! I love that he is a necromancer who uses his powers to not have to do ANYTHING! 💀😭
Cut to- Riley getting groceries with his familiar when is suddenly arrested and taken to the precinct. He meets an old friend who insisted this was the only way she could get him there. They insist he has to talk to this stranger but he doesn’t want too, he left the team years ago and is now a librarian. He, reluctantly, meets up with the tall AF, beefy God- who throws him at this giant wild creature.
Soon they are forced together and as they go on, their attraction grows, and a real danger threatens their world.
I really loved this book! I mean, I always like an Alice Winter’s book but this was so much fun. Honestly l, it reminded me a bit of a funnier version of Hailey Turner’s “A Ferry of Bones and Gold”. It definitely had that vibe. Torin is a bit of a HIMBO, who mostly thinks about sex and is baffled as to why the peasant doesn’t want to sleep with him! Riley is a bitter, sarcastic cutie who loves making Torin uncomfortable.
And a special note for Mickey who is my spirit character!!! I swear his absolute laziness and lack of remorse for it is amazing!!!! The funniest thing! I love that he is a necromancer who uses his powers to not have to do ANYTHING! 💀😭
June 2, 2026
Another banger from Alice!
I will always be amazed at how Alice is able to write such hilarity whilst giving characters such genuine depth. So often you have to choose between laugh out loud humour and powerful characterisations but you never do with Alice’s books, which is why I absolutely adore them. Torin and Riley are absolutely hilarious. I honestly couldn’t figure out who was funnier (Torin with all his antics as he discovers Earth and its peculiarities or Riley with his reactions to said discoveries and general exasperation with Torin at times). Beyond that amusement though are two people who have a lot more going on that you’d think at first glance. My heart honestly ached for Torin and all he’s been through. That was softened by all the ridiculousness that was Torin learning about somewhere entirely foreign to him. It’s that balance that makes the book so good. You have the silliness and sarcasm balanced against these moments of sincere and sometimes painful reality. As usual the plot also served to keep me on my toes. It’s fast paced without feeling rushed and keeps you waiting for what happens next without losing the fun bits in between. The secondary characters were on point as well - Mickey has a special place in my heart and I’m hoping we get to see even more of him in coming books. I am so excited for more from this series and getting to learn more about these characters and their antics!
I will always be amazed at how Alice is able to write such hilarity whilst giving characters such genuine depth. So often you have to choose between laugh out loud humour and powerful characterisations but you never do with Alice’s books, which is why I absolutely adore them. Torin and Riley are absolutely hilarious. I honestly couldn’t figure out who was funnier (Torin with all his antics as he discovers Earth and its peculiarities or Riley with his reactions to said discoveries and general exasperation with Torin at times). Beyond that amusement though are two people who have a lot more going on that you’d think at first glance. My heart honestly ached for Torin and all he’s been through. That was softened by all the ridiculousness that was Torin learning about somewhere entirely foreign to him. It’s that balance that makes the book so good. You have the silliness and sarcasm balanced against these moments of sincere and sometimes painful reality. As usual the plot also served to keep me on my toes. It’s fast paced without feeling rushed and keeps you waiting for what happens next without losing the fun bits in between. The secondary characters were on point as well - Mickey has a special place in my heart and I’m hoping we get to see even more of him in coming books. I am so excited for more from this series and getting to learn more about these characters and their antics!
June 8, 2026
4.5/5. Fuck me, that was A LOT. You are immediately dropped into the chaos, and you never quite manage to find a break in it. It’s nonstop from start to finish, and it’s fucking good. So good. And that li’l twisty-twist? Immaculate. Picasso 🤌 This is gonna be one hell of a fucking ride, and I’m here for all of it. It’s rife with the typical shenanigans from this author, but I feel like each new release has gone deeper, had more and more going for it than just the snark and banter and heart we’re all used to enjoying. Idk how to explain it. It just be what it be and do what it do and I love it.
June 4, 2026
Allliiiiiicccce Wiiiinteerrrrssss!!! I was over the moon to see she has a new series out. Staying up late reading this book, I had the best night ever. It made me so damn happy.
Winters is my favorite writer and a master of the slow-build joke. I laughed out loud many times. I’ve never laughed harder at a book than when Mickey made Tommy get the wheelbarrow. The whole concept of a lazy necromancer was so brilliant.
And between the laughs - sometimes during - I was having my heart tugged, feeling the sadness and loneliness of the MCs, and melting at their romance. All the side characters were great. Riley and Kit’s magic connection made all the situations they encountered mind-bendingly interesting.
Winters is my favorite writer and a master of the slow-build joke. I laughed out loud many times. I’ve never laughed harder at a book than when Mickey made Tommy get the wheelbarrow. The whole concept of a lazy necromancer was so brilliant.
And between the laughs - sometimes during - I was having my heart tugged, feeling the sadness and loneliness of the MCs, and melting at their romance. All the side characters were great. Riley and Kit’s magic connection made all the situations they encountered mind-bendingly interesting.
June 2, 2026
new series???
When Riley got a call from his past employer to look after a god he didn’t realize how his life will change.
I really enjoyed this story it’s different from the other books Alice has but the same humor.
Reading Torin getting used to the new world he is in so funny we do need the book where torin learnt English.
Hopefully there is another book.
When Riley got a call from his past employer to look after a god he didn’t realize how his life will change.
I really enjoyed this story it’s different from the other books Alice has but the same humor.
Reading Torin getting used to the new world he is in so funny we do need the book where torin learnt English.
Hopefully there is another book.
June 2, 2026
I was cracking up right from the very beginning.
Poor Riley, lands himself a baby sitting gig and well suffice to say, a whole load of chaos follows.
I adored Torin, he made me laugh. Torin and Riley’s banter was funny and entertaining.
I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book!
*I voluntarily read this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else's*
Poor Riley, lands himself a baby sitting gig and well suffice to say, a whole load of chaos follows.
I adored Torin, he made me laugh. Torin and Riley’s banter was funny and entertaining.
I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book!
*I voluntarily read this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else's*
Did Not Finish
June 8, 2026DNF at 46% | 8th Jun 2026. What happened here? i had high hopes. It got very irritating with the constant mentions of just how much off page sex they’re having, while the story isn't engaging enough for me. Had to rewind several times just to hear properly. i realised this wasn't going to be my thing. We have a god of love even. Alice, why are we doing FTB all of a sudden??
Riley is an ex magical policeman whose power lets him borrow other people's magic. He's called back for a case involving an isekai-ed God & mysterious doors openings. Riley also isekai into the Torin’s world.That's basically the plot.
It had some good parts i guess:
✦Riley is actually blind, and sees the world through his Kit’s eyes. Quite a unique dynamic here.
✦This God is so different from Loch, obviously. He’s a lot king-like, calling Riley “peasant” and is all growly. But his nonstop attempts to get Riley into bed despite being repeatedly rejected is very Loch like! Then again, he's the God of War and Love, hence the insta lust .
✦Torin’s utter confusion with modernity is hilarious!!😃 Loved how his 1st reaction is always to destroy stuff. LMAO learning English from a sex book. 💀
✦In this world some mages can have familiars and Riley has an adorable kitty. Loved Kit.
✦Narrated by Greg Boudreaux.
i definitely have issues which dampened my mood:
♦️There’s 1 sex scene. At 41%. Again, Greg did all the heavy lifting. It was.. whatever. It’s a blink and a miss and then FTB with only mentions of all the best copious amounts of said FTB sex they had!!!! Man i hate it when that happens!!
♦️How did this old God know about about what an “office” is but not electricity, cars, etc?
♦OP info: There’s 1 point where Torin meets Riley’s succubus boss and the pair seemingly leave “to do the business” but nothing happens as he’s only interested in Riley. And 1 time, Riley had to borrow said succubus power which made his friends feel horny for him. They’re not at all otherwise interested, but it got Torin all jealous hehe.
Human mage x God, strangers→lovers, isekai, insta lust, blind MC, forced proximity, FTB.
Riley is an ex magical policeman whose power lets him borrow other people's magic. He's called back for a case involving an isekai-ed God & mysterious doors openings. Riley also isekai into the Torin’s world.That's basically the plot.
It had some good parts i guess:
✦Riley is actually blind, and sees the world through his Kit’s eyes. Quite a unique dynamic here.
✦This God is so different from Loch, obviously. He’s a lot king-like, calling Riley “peasant” and is all growly. But his nonstop attempts to get Riley into bed despite being repeatedly rejected is very Loch like! Then again, he's the God of War and Love, hence the insta lust .
✦Torin’s utter confusion with modernity is hilarious!!😃 Loved how his 1st reaction is always to destroy stuff. LMAO learning English from a sex book. 💀
✦In this world some mages can have familiars and Riley has an adorable kitty. Loved Kit.
✦Narrated by Greg Boudreaux.
i definitely have issues which dampened my mood:
♦️There’s 1 sex scene. At 41%. Again, Greg did all the heavy lifting. It was.. whatever. It’s a blink and a miss and then FTB with only mentions of all the best copious amounts of said FTB sex they had!!!! Man i hate it when that happens!!
♦️How did this old God know about about what an “office” is but not electricity, cars, etc?
♦OP info: There’s 1 point where Torin meets Riley’s succubus boss and the pair seemingly leave “to do the business” but nothing happens as he’s only interested in Riley. And 1 time, Riley had to borrow said succubus power which made his friends feel horny for him. They’re not at all otherwise interested, but it got Torin all jealous hehe.
Human mage x God, strangers→lovers, isekai, insta lust, blind MC, forced proximity, FTB.
June 4, 2026
This book made me laugh out loud more than a couple of times! I had so much fun reading this one! Riley and Torin were so good -and hilarious- together. I also really liked the other characters. Mickey is so weird but sweet and funny and I really hope to see more of Riley's unit. That Riley didn't want to ride anything and loved the subway is in hindsight also pretty funny. The worldbuildig is great and I feel like we only saw the tip of the iceberg while reading this story. The same goes for the magic and I just can't wait to see what happens next!
June 7, 2026
Fractured Doors and Forgotten Gods by Alice Winters
🩵 Magic Wielder x God of Love & War
🩵 Forced Proximity
🩵 Size Difference
🩵 Opposites Attract
🩵 Urban Fantasy Romance
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.25
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Humour: 🤭🤭🤭.5
Intimacy: 🫂🫂🫂🫂
Angst: 🥺🥺🥺
First person dual pov 👀
Content Warnings
On page: blood, gore, threat, violence, injury, grief, panic attacks, death, hospitalisation, medical content, horror themes and descriptions, the undead, sexual content
Mentioned: war, mass death, infidelity, depression, suicidal thoughts
🩵 Magic Wielder x God of Love & War
🩵 Forced Proximity
🩵 Size Difference
🩵 Opposites Attract
🩵 Urban Fantasy Romance
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.25
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Humour: 🤭🤭🤭.5
Intimacy: 🫂🫂🫂🫂
Angst: 🥺🥺🥺
First person dual pov 👀
Content Warnings
On page: blood, gore, threat, violence, injury, grief, panic attacks, death, hospitalisation, medical content, horror themes and descriptions, the undead, sexual content
Mentioned: war, mass death, infidelity, depression, suicidal thoughts
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 2, 2026
That was an insane ride and I LOVED it. Full review to come!
June 7, 2026
4.5 stars
June 13, 2026
This book is everything I've come to expect from this author: fun, sarcastic, chaotic, and completely ridiculous.
June 5, 2026
Perfection!
This book was absolute perfection and an amazing start to a new series. I can’t believe I have to wait for the next book after everything that happened in this book. Alice Winters is a genius and the humour in her books is perfect for me. As soon as she releases a new book I am on it because they are just so good. This book was so much fun to read with some very interesting magic and crazy revelations. There was also a whole new cast of fun and unique characters to fall in love with who were all fantastic! Riley is a delightful main character who has retired from a life of chaos and problem solving and is now just trying to live out a peaceful existence with his familiar and yet keeps getting dragged into new things. His most recent problem is Torin who is a god with zero knowledge of this from our earth who keeps demanding a horse. I loved these two together, they were so funny but also sweet. Watching Riley mess with Torin about how earth functions is a delight and seeing Torin experience the joys of food that is not good for you is equally delightful. I don’t think I’d be able to pick a favourite part of this book if I had to because it was just such a fun journey that I was very happy to be on and very sad about it ending. Though if I had to pick a favourite side character it would 100% be Mickey who is as wonderful as he is sleepy but he totally deserves the sleep because he is brilliant! Mickey was such a fun surprise in this story and now I need more of him and his crew in my life immediately because they were perfect! As for the actual story and all the bad dark mysterious things that were happening, I was very intrigued by the magic and where everything was going. There was definitely a moment where things were said that it clicked and I was even more excited because it is something I love reading about that I haven’t seen very often! The action in this book was just as good as the rest of this book and all of Alice Winters’ books. I was kept on the edge of my seat in anticipation, excited to see where things were going and I can’t believe I have to wait to find out more. I have very quickly fallen in love with everything about this universe and now I can’t wait for book 2 so that I can devour that too!
This book was absolute perfection and an amazing start to a new series. I can’t believe I have to wait for the next book after everything that happened in this book. Alice Winters is a genius and the humour in her books is perfect for me. As soon as she releases a new book I am on it because they are just so good. This book was so much fun to read with some very interesting magic and crazy revelations. There was also a whole new cast of fun and unique characters to fall in love with who were all fantastic! Riley is a delightful main character who has retired from a life of chaos and problem solving and is now just trying to live out a peaceful existence with his familiar and yet keeps getting dragged into new things. His most recent problem is Torin who is a god with zero knowledge of this from our earth who keeps demanding a horse. I loved these two together, they were so funny but also sweet. Watching Riley mess with Torin about how earth functions is a delight and seeing Torin experience the joys of food that is not good for you is equally delightful. I don’t think I’d be able to pick a favourite part of this book if I had to because it was just such a fun journey that I was very happy to be on and very sad about it ending. Though if I had to pick a favourite side character it would 100% be Mickey who is as wonderful as he is sleepy but he totally deserves the sleep because he is brilliant! Mickey was such a fun surprise in this story and now I need more of him and his crew in my life immediately because they were perfect! As for the actual story and all the bad dark mysterious things that were happening, I was very intrigued by the magic and where everything was going. There was definitely a moment where things were said that it clicked and I was even more excited because it is something I love reading about that I haven’t seen very often! The action in this book was just as good as the rest of this book and all of Alice Winters’ books. I was kept on the edge of my seat in anticipation, excited to see where things were going and I can’t believe I have to wait to find out more. I have very quickly fallen in love with everything about this universe and now I can’t wait for book 2 so that I can devour that too!
June 2, 2026
I'm pretty sure I've said a version of this a time or two about Alice Winters, but I'm saying it again- I'm in awe of the way her mind works. To come up with the characters and situations she does, I honestly don't know how she does it. To a certain extent she seems to have a formula for her couples- one is usually the more calming influence, yet still having a little bit of a "wild" side, while the other one is crazy/funny/wacky/over-the-top outlandish. Even if they seem completely opposite, they always balance each other out. And even if the couples may be formulaic (and I'm not saying this is a bad thing at all, I actually love this about her writing), the stories are always unique and one-of-a-kind.
And that holds true for Riley and Torin and their story.
The story was engaging and fun, as well as mysterious and intriguing. And of course, I was left wanting more!
The secondary characters definitely deserve mentioning, especially Mickey. I love how the side characters always add so much to her stories, there's usually one or 2 that you want to see get their own book/s, and my man Mickey is for sure a character I know we'd all love to see have his own adventures- if he can stay awake long enough, that is.
Fractured Doors and Forgotten Gods is a really good start to a new series. I'm anxious to get back into this world, to find our what's coming next for Riley and Torin. That's a lot to learn, after some surprising revelations!
And that holds true for Riley and Torin and their story.
The story was engaging and fun, as well as mysterious and intriguing. And of course, I was left wanting more!
The secondary characters definitely deserve mentioning, especially Mickey. I love how the side characters always add so much to her stories, there's usually one or 2 that you want to see get their own book/s, and my man Mickey is for sure a character I know we'd all love to see have his own adventures- if he can stay awake long enough, that is.
Fractured Doors and Forgotten Gods is a really good start to a new series. I'm anxious to get back into this world, to find our what's coming next for Riley and Torin. That's a lot to learn, after some surprising revelations!
Review of advance copy received from Author
First in series (Hidden Realms). Urban fantasy. Close proximity. Dual POV.
Riley doesn’t work for the Magical Interference Unit anymore, but is suddenly saddled with a man that proclaims he is the God of Love and War. Torin is from another realm and has to contend with a sassy human that doesn’t want to sleep with him while helping save their world.
What starts as a fish out of water story with a seemingly arrogant god paired with an unsympathetic human slowly turns into a god that recognizes the teasing but barrels forward nonetheless and a man that comes to care for the god he is supposedly annoyed by. I would have liked a little more world building regarding the supernatural elements of the universe and the knowledge of other realms, but this story was still compelling and entertaining. Yes, the usual antics and hilarity in this author’s stories is present, but there is a depth to Riley and Torin as is revealed in learning about their pasts and struggles they have worked to overcome. Both are sympathetic and likable characters that question the quickly growing feelings they have while never hesitating to jump into danger together. I appreciated that both Riley and Torin are powerful, yet intelligent and caring, and I am deeply invested in this series (with a shout out to a new fav secondary character in Mickey). 4.5 rounded up
Riley doesn’t work for the Magical Interference Unit anymore, but is suddenly saddled with a man that proclaims he is the God of Love and War. Torin is from another realm and has to contend with a sassy human that doesn’t want to sleep with him while helping save their world.
What starts as a fish out of water story with a seemingly arrogant god paired with an unsympathetic human slowly turns into a god that recognizes the teasing but barrels forward nonetheless and a man that comes to care for the god he is supposedly annoyed by. I would have liked a little more world building regarding the supernatural elements of the universe and the knowledge of other realms, but this story was still compelling and entertaining. Yes, the usual antics and hilarity in this author’s stories is present, but there is a depth to Riley and Torin as is revealed in learning about their pasts and struggles they have worked to overcome. Both are sympathetic and likable characters that question the quickly growing feelings they have while never hesitating to jump into danger together. I appreciated that both Riley and Torin are powerful, yet intelligent and caring, and I am deeply invested in this series (with a shout out to a new fav secondary character in Mickey). 4.5 rounded up
June 6, 2026
As I do with every Alice Winters book, I found myself laughing out loud in public as I attempted to read this discreetly lol
Riley is a former magical police officer turned librarian whose former colleagues drag back into their world when a god walks though a magical doorway and they have no idea how to deal with him or speak his language. He wants nothing to do with his former employer or Torin but finds himself paired with him regardless. Torin is completely baffled by Riley and the human realm. He is hilarious in the way he learns English and his obsession with pizza.
Riley’s genet familiar named Kit is adorable with a very sassy personality who we discover is more than they first appear. I love Kit and they definitely feel like a third person in the relationship but not in a weird/bad way.
The plot gets genuinely creepy in places which caught me off guard given how funny the first few chapters are. I did feel the middle drags a bit but Winters does use some of it to set up plot points for book two, but honestly minor complaints in what is a very interesting and funny story. Book 1 ends on a HFN for the relationship and a cliffhanger for the larger plot. 4 stars and I'm already annoyed I have to wait for book 2.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
Riley is a former magical police officer turned librarian whose former colleagues drag back into their world when a god walks though a magical doorway and they have no idea how to deal with him or speak his language. He wants nothing to do with his former employer or Torin but finds himself paired with him regardless. Torin is completely baffled by Riley and the human realm. He is hilarious in the way he learns English and his obsession with pizza.
Riley’s genet familiar named Kit is adorable with a very sassy personality who we discover is more than they first appear. I love Kit and they definitely feel like a third person in the relationship but not in a weird/bad way.
The plot gets genuinely creepy in places which caught me off guard given how funny the first few chapters are. I did feel the middle drags a bit but Winters does use some of it to set up plot points for book two, but honestly minor complaints in what is a very interesting and funny story. Book 1 ends on a HFN for the relationship and a cliffhanger for the larger plot. 4 stars and I'm already annoyed I have to wait for book 2.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely devoured this book. This urban fantasy/romance/comedy had me completely hooked from start to finish. Riley is a librarian who can borrow magic from others and suddenly finds himself the guardian of Torin who is from another realm and is also the God of War and Love. It’s so much fun seeing Torin adjusting to this new realm that he finds himself in. There’s the first encounters with cars, frisky turnstiles during his first subway ride, the “magic” of escalators and what is required to run them and the list just goes on. I can’t count how many times I laughed out loud at the antics of Torin aided and abetted by the sassy and sarcastic Riley. It’s not all fun and games when the villains do their villain things when trying to decimate the world and boy o boy did that lead to some unexpected twisty turns! I had lots of laugh out loud moments mixed with scenes that gave me plenty of feels as these two wonderful characters navigated their way to a HFN. Of course they had some very fun and interesting side characters helping them along the way and I can’t not mention the steamy scenes because Torin is the God of War and Love after all! I can’t wait for more in this new series.
June 2, 2026
This is the first in a new series by Alice Winters. While there is a cliffhanger, it ends HFN, now being an unknown amount of time until the next crisis hits. Alice delivers this story in her typical humorous style. If you haven’t read anything else by her, you definitely should. There are always plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, zany characters, and fun animals/creatures tagging along.
This story follows Riley, whose magic has gone awry, causing him to lose his vision, and Torin, a god whose world has been decimated. Torin shows up in Riley’s world, and he’s given the task of babysitting the god of war and love. Torin, for his part, is used to being worshipped and adored and having free access to a harem of lovers. Riley delights in torturing Torin with the modern conveniences of his world (like escalators) while Torin enjoys doing his best to try to get into Riley’s pants.
In the end, a world-ending crisis brings them together, both of them having been alone for so long, and now they are no longer alone.
If you are looking for something that is equal parts steamy, funny, and plot-driven, pick this one up!
Looking forward to book 2 and seeing what happens next!
This story follows Riley, whose magic has gone awry, causing him to lose his vision, and Torin, a god whose world has been decimated. Torin shows up in Riley’s world, and he’s given the task of babysitting the god of war and love. Torin, for his part, is used to being worshipped and adored and having free access to a harem of lovers. Riley delights in torturing Torin with the modern conveniences of his world (like escalators) while Torin enjoys doing his best to try to get into Riley’s pants.
In the end, a world-ending crisis brings them together, both of them having been alone for so long, and now they are no longer alone.
If you are looking for something that is equal parts steamy, funny, and plot-driven, pick this one up!
Looking forward to book 2 and seeing what happens next!
June 3, 2026
4/5
Fractured Doors and Forgotten Gods was a really enjoyable start to a new series. The story was fun, engaging, and intriguing, with enough mystery surrounding the fractured worlds and forgotten gods to keep me hooked from beginning to end.
I found myself enjoying Alice Winters's writing here more than in some of her recent releases. The humor was still present, but it felt better balanced with the plot and character development, allowing the story and emotional moments to shine. It also felt fresh and different from her previous work while still delivering the wit and banter I expect from her books.
Riley and Torin were both easy to like. As more of their pasts and struggles were revealed, they gained a depth that made me invested in both their individual journeys and their growing relationship. I also loved the supporting cast, especially Mickey, who completely stole every scene he appeared in.
Greg Boudreaux did an amazing job with the narration, bringing both the humor and emotional moments to life.
Overall, this was a strong opening to a new series, and I was definitely left wanting more.
Fractured Doors and Forgotten Gods was a really enjoyable start to a new series. The story was fun, engaging, and intriguing, with enough mystery surrounding the fractured worlds and forgotten gods to keep me hooked from beginning to end.
I found myself enjoying Alice Winters's writing here more than in some of her recent releases. The humor was still present, but it felt better balanced with the plot and character development, allowing the story and emotional moments to shine. It also felt fresh and different from her previous work while still delivering the wit and banter I expect from her books.
Riley and Torin were both easy to like. As more of their pasts and struggles were revealed, they gained a depth that made me invested in both their individual journeys and their growing relationship. I also loved the supporting cast, especially Mickey, who completely stole every scene he appeared in.
Greg Boudreaux did an amazing job with the narration, bringing both the humor and emotional moments to life.
Overall, this was a strong opening to a new series, and I was definitely left wanting more.
June 3, 2026
Torin and Riley are an absolute riot. I honestly couldn’t decide who was funnier—Torin with his chaotic antics as he discovers Earth and all its bizarre quirks, or Riley with his perfectly exasperated reactions to every new disaster Torin stumbles into. Their dynamic is pure entertainment from start to finish. But what really surprised me is how much depth sits beneath all the humor. Torin’s backstory genuinely tugged at my heart, and seeing those emotional moments woven between the ridiculousness of him navigating a completely foreign world created such a perfect balance. The book blends silliness, sarcasm, and sincerity in a way that feels effortless. Their story kept me hooked the entire time. It’s fast‑paced without ever feeling rushed, always moving forward while still giving space for the fun character moments that make the story shine. And the secondary characters are fantastic—Mickey especially stole my heart, and I’m really hoping he gets even more page time in future books. I’m so excited for the rest of this series. If the upcoming installments are anything like this one, we’re in for a treat.
June 2, 2026
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.75 stars
Fractured Doors and Forgotten Gods by Alice Winters is the first book in her new Hidden Realms series. It is sort of a cross between a fantasy and an urban fantasy, as they spend time in both the human and godly realm, with lots of magic and some suspense as well.
I think this story really pulls together in the end with some interesting revelations and sets things up quite well for the series. The start was a bit rocky for me (and again, this is just my personal sense of humor), but it settled in well as the story continued. I ended up really liking Riley and Torin together and think there is a lot of great potential for the rest of the series.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
3.75 stars
Fractured Doors and Forgotten Gods by Alice Winters is the first book in her new Hidden Realms series. It is sort of a cross between a fantasy and an urban fantasy, as they spend time in both the human and godly realm, with lots of magic and some suspense as well.
I think this story really pulls together in the end with some interesting revelations and sets things up quite well for the series. The start was a bit rocky for me (and again, this is just my personal sense of humor), but it settled in well as the story continued. I ended up really liking Riley and Torin together and think there is a lot of great potential for the rest of the series.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
June 2, 2026
Riley my snarky human, how I love you. I mean how can you not? Who else is going to ignore the chaos that is happening around you just to continue your grocery shopping? This scene alone let me know I would absolutely love him and this book. Riley being a mage with power that no one else has or has had before, is really important. His power is so unique and special that he is called upon for difficult assignments. But unfortunately, this power comes at a cost.
Torin my lovable God, I adore you. You burst onto the scene and cause problems. Not only can you not communicate, but you try to sacrifice a human to a beast, lol. You showcase the party boy persona that a God of Love would portray, even though you are hiding a deep pain.
These two get placed together due to Riley's power and must work together to figure out the strange door with the weird magic.
Like with all Alice's books you get drama, comedy, spice and of course an animal sidekick. Highly recommend this book.
Torin my lovable God, I adore you. You burst onto the scene and cause problems. Not only can you not communicate, but you try to sacrifice a human to a beast, lol. You showcase the party boy persona that a God of Love would portray, even though you are hiding a deep pain.
These two get placed together due to Riley's power and must work together to figure out the strange door with the weird magic.
Like with all Alice's books you get drama, comedy, spice and of course an animal sidekick. Highly recommend this book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Once again Alice Winters created an absolute masterpiece. This was everything I needed. It was magical, it was hilarious, it was full of amazing (and sometimes ridiculous) animals and it had the biggest plot twist that ever twisted, which I was not expecting.
Torin is this walking sunshine of a god and Riley is former magical agent turned librarian. Their relationship was very reluctant (Riley beeing a stubborn man that he is) but it was so amazing!
And that freaking plot twist!
Also, as usual in all Alice's books we have it filled with amazing (sometimes causing mayhem) animals and the most amazing side characters (that I secretly hope will get their own book someday especially Mickey).
I can't wait for another book in this series 😍 and I can just feel that this book will be re-read or listened to very soon 😍
Torin is this walking sunshine of a god and Riley is former magical agent turned librarian. Their relationship was very reluctant (Riley beeing a stubborn man that he is) but it was so amazing!
And that freaking plot twist!
Also, as usual in all Alice's books we have it filled with amazing (sometimes causing mayhem) animals and the most amazing side characters (that I secretly hope will get their own book someday especially Mickey).
I can't wait for another book in this series 😍 and I can just feel that this book will be re-read or listened to very soon 😍
June 5, 2026
Having a relationship with a god while the world is in trouble
Book one of a new series for Alice Winters about Riley, a regular guy with magic and Torin, a god with big problems. The world building is amazing in this book even though it’s really just like our world, but people have magic. I love how Ms Winters made the effort to describe how the magic was done and the cost. As with all of her books she injects humor in all the right places. She is particularly good at building the humor to the point where I end up waking up those around me. My cat gets especially annoyed to the point of leaving my lap.
Ms Winters is a definite one click for me as she is for a lot of people and that is because she is a marvelous writer who has a well deserved reputation. If you know her work you don’t need to be told that and if you don’t, well dig in!
Book one of a new series for Alice Winters about Riley, a regular guy with magic and Torin, a god with big problems. The world building is amazing in this book even though it’s really just like our world, but people have magic. I love how Ms Winters made the effort to describe how the magic was done and the cost. As with all of her books she injects humor in all the right places. She is particularly good at building the humor to the point where I end up waking up those around me. My cat gets especially annoyed to the point of leaving my lap.
Ms Winters is a definite one click for me as she is for a lot of people and that is because she is a marvelous writer who has a well deserved reputation. If you know her work you don’t need to be told that and if you don’t, well dig in!
June 6, 2026
What a brilliant start to a new series 🙂 Alice Winters is one of my instant read authors and I did in fact abandon the book I was getting ready to start as soon as this was released and that was definitely the right decision as I could not put this book down
Riley and Torin are hilarious together from Riley torturing Torin with escalators and the subway to Torin learning English from “sex” books and demanding a horse I just love them and their banter is 10/10
As always with an Alice Winters book we have brilliant side characters my favourite being Mickey
The story is brilliant I was not expecting the twist and while it does not technically end on a cliffhanger the story is not fully resolved so I am eagerly waiting for book 2
Expect:🔥M/M romance🔥close proximity🔥spicy scenes🔥magic🔥mystery🔥humour🔥paranormal🔥
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Riley and Torin are hilarious together from Riley torturing Torin with escalators and the subway to Torin learning English from “sex” books and demanding a horse I just love them and their banter is 10/10
As always with an Alice Winters book we have brilliant side characters my favourite being Mickey
The story is brilliant I was not expecting the twist and while it does not technically end on a cliffhanger the story is not fully resolved so I am eagerly waiting for book 2
Expect:🔥M/M romance🔥close proximity🔥spicy scenes🔥magic🔥mystery🔥humour🔥paranormal🔥
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review of advance copy received from Author
Riley was living for his life in the Magical Interference Unit until he became a liability. Quiting and becoming a librarian's assistant gets him by. Having a contrary familiar keeps his days interesting. When he's dragged back into his old life things take an interesting and hilarious turn.
Torin is a God and one person occupant from a realm that's been dying for 200 years. When his last reason for being alone is no longer available he makes a door to earth. There he meets Riley and he tries plying him with his charms. Riley's a tough sale and doesn't fall for his tricks.
Riley is charged with the care of Torin and it's equally amusing and frustrating. The things Torin does and says while learning about his new life is funny. 🤣 It made me think of being dropped in another country that doesn't speak English and how would I cope. 🤔 I definitely don't think I'd do as well as Torin. The story was interesting with the inclusion of the Four Horsemen and how they tied in with both Riley and Torin. There were so many parts that were LOL funny to balance out the seriousness. When Torin tells Riley about his life the last 200 years I was crying. I could feel the real pain and heartbreak Torin felt. I really liked Mickey. He is a friend and old co-worker of Riley's. He worked so hard at not working. His antics were funny and sometimes ridiculous. By the end of the story it felt like Mickey was part of Riley and Torin's family. Mickey is smarter than anyone gives him credit though because he figures out Riley's secret when no one else does and as a true friend keeps it quiet. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am excited for the next one to come. Highly recommend this book and all of Alice's previous books. 😍
Torin is a God and one person occupant from a realm that's been dying for 200 years. When his last reason for being alone is no longer available he makes a door to earth. There he meets Riley and he tries plying him with his charms. Riley's a tough sale and doesn't fall for his tricks.
Riley is charged with the care of Torin and it's equally amusing and frustrating. The things Torin does and says while learning about his new life is funny. 🤣 It made me think of being dropped in another country that doesn't speak English and how would I cope. 🤔 I definitely don't think I'd do as well as Torin. The story was interesting with the inclusion of the Four Horsemen and how they tied in with both Riley and Torin. There were so many parts that were LOL funny to balance out the seriousness. When Torin tells Riley about his life the last 200 years I was crying. I could feel the real pain and heartbreak Torin felt. I really liked Mickey. He is a friend and old co-worker of Riley's. He worked so hard at not working. His antics were funny and sometimes ridiculous. By the end of the story it felt like Mickey was part of Riley and Torin's family. Mickey is smarter than anyone gives him credit though because he figures out Riley's secret when no one else does and as a true friend keeps it quiet. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am excited for the next one to come. Highly recommend this book and all of Alice's previous books. 😍
June 2, 2026
A HILLARIOUS GOOD TIME OF A READ!!
Whenever I read a book from this author, I know it will always make me laugh and have a splendid good time. This book definitely did that and so much more!
Riley, this
poor dear gets thrown the wonderful job of watching Torin. Torin is a deity from a different realm, and he is one interesting character, lol. These two get into so many shenanigans, and I am here for it. I loved the banter between these two, and it was so great! I also adored Kit, who is the familiar of Riley! I loved all the side characters as well, and they put a smile on my face. This book has quite the awesomeness packed between the pages. Just fantastic!! This author strikes again with a great read!
Whenever I read a book from this author, I know it will always make me laugh and have a splendid good time. This book definitely did that and so much more!
Riley, this
poor dear gets thrown the wonderful job of watching Torin. Torin is a deity from a different realm, and he is one interesting character, lol. These two get into so many shenanigans, and I am here for it. I loved the banter between these two, and it was so great! I also adored Kit, who is the familiar of Riley! I loved all the side characters as well, and they put a smile on my face. This book has quite the awesomeness packed between the pages. Just fantastic!! This author strikes again with a great read!
Review of advance copy received from Author
5/5 ⭐ 2/5 🌶️
ARC Review for Fractured Doors & Forgotten Gods by Alice Winters
Riley is human with amazing magical abilities & a big secret. Torin is a god of love & war from another realm.
When Torin uses a door to enter the human world, Riley's old co-workers call in a favor with the ex-magical interference agent to watch the unknown deity. Riley reluctantly agrees & the two stumble into a series of odd occurrences. Those events quickly become more frequent & terrifying as the story progresses.
With the help of a chicken loving familiar, an extremely lazy necromancer of hilarious proportions & Riley's friends from the Magical Interference Unit. Torin & Riley race against time to defeat a big baddie.
I'm obsessed & cannot wait to find out what happens in the next book. Fractured Doors & Forgotten Gods surprised me with how spicy it was!!! 🔥 Usually Alice Winters' books have one to two open door scenes that are fairly quick. In this book she really took her time & went into delightfully graphic detail without compromising any of the plot. It was extremely well written & exactly the level of heat I would hope to see from a love god.
Features:
- Dual POV
- Urban Fantasy
- Violence & Destruction
- Comic Relief Characters
- Mystery
- Playboy Falls First
- Magical Creatures As Pets
- Spicy
- Happy For Now Ending
ARC Review for Fractured Doors & Forgotten Gods by Alice Winters
Riley is human with amazing magical abilities & a big secret. Torin is a god of love & war from another realm.
When Torin uses a door to enter the human world, Riley's old co-workers call in a favor with the ex-magical interference agent to watch the unknown deity. Riley reluctantly agrees & the two stumble into a series of odd occurrences. Those events quickly become more frequent & terrifying as the story progresses.
With the help of a chicken loving familiar, an extremely lazy necromancer of hilarious proportions & Riley's friends from the Magical Interference Unit. Torin & Riley race against time to defeat a big baddie.
I'm obsessed & cannot wait to find out what happens in the next book. Fractured Doors & Forgotten Gods surprised me with how spicy it was!!! 🔥 Usually Alice Winters' books have one to two open door scenes that are fairly quick. In this book she really took her time & went into delightfully graphic detail without compromising any of the plot. It was extremely well written & exactly the level of heat I would hope to see from a love god.
Features:
- Dual POV
- Urban Fantasy
- Violence & Destruction
- Comic Relief Characters
- Mystery
- Playboy Falls First
- Magical Creatures As Pets
- Spicy
- Happy For Now Ending
June 7, 2026
Alice Winters doing an Alice Winters type of story, variant portal fantasy (kind of) with an extra snarky MC and a very himboish god of War and Love. With twists. And it is very good and the the setting feels fresh enough. Being an Alice Winters book, there is not much angst in the main relationship, they might snark and himbo-slut out for the first part of the book, but they are solidly commited even if there is a plot of plot still to come and they are a lot of fun together. So I am in for sequels.
Great secondary characters including (no exaggeration) the best necromancer ever as the laziest necromancer ever and good friend as a the laziest friend ever,
Great secondary characters including (no exaggeration) the best necromancer ever as the laziest necromancer ever and good friend as a the laziest friend ever,
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