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S-Gods #1
Claimed by the Order
Young and eager to join the social playground of the gods, Marduk enters his first day of college at the exotic mountain retreat at the Temple of Power. But he swiftly falls into the clutches of a secret order. Confronted by the powerful gods who wish to claim him, Marduk is defenseless. His only way out: to lure another virgin god into the Order.
Advisory: Contains m/m sex, violence, non-con, & abuse. Intended for mature readers.
Claimed by the Order is no longer available on Amazon: Please check out my website for the buy links https://jjohanis.com/claimed-by-the-o...
Advisory: Contains m/m sex, violence, non-con, & abuse. Intended for mature readers.
Claimed by the Order is no longer available on Amazon: Please check out my website for the buy links https://jjohanis.com/claimed-by-the-o...
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First published June 1, 2015
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
October 6, 2015
This book was provided by the author via IndiGo Marketing & Design in exchange for an honest review.
Claimed by the Order has a very unusual take on mythology – combining Greek, Mesopotamian, and Egyptian gods and goddesses in one universe. The plot gravitates around a place called the Temple of Power where young gods and goddesses train and learn at the Divine College to become future leaders of the world. Not only that, the author also immerses you in the affairs of these deities as they interact in an organized society more or less akin to what we have presently.
Although politics is a strong theme in the book, the story is dark through and through. In this installment, the focus is on Marduk, the Mesopotamian God, and his involvement in an elite cult and their illicit carnal activities. The book is graphic and repetitive when it came to these and I wouldn't recommend this to those who are not used to non-con/dub-con, and abuse and violence which were in no way used as a romantic device in the case of this book.
I thought that the story started really well – excellently written and detailed. The way the author broke Marduk’s character down physically and psychologically – continually subjecting him to public humiliation, betrayal, abuse, and rape – was truly commendable as I was so much affected by it. But as the events in the story unfolded, I found it dragging in the middle with the story going in an indefinite loop. Transitions within chapters in the latter part of the story need work as well as I thought they were all over the place.
Despite that, I wasn’t able to put this down until the very end even if it continually made my skin crawl and messed up my mind. This was an interesting, dark story. Truly one of a kind.
July 3, 2015
3.5 stars
This is a good story, which is buried under a layer of repetitive language and actions, similes written as literal statements, and a good deal of 'I don't think that word means what you think it means.'
This is a good story, which is buried under a layer of repetitive language and actions, similes written as literal statements, and a good deal of 'I don't think that word means what you think it means.'
June 21, 2015
*** This book was provided by Indigo in exchange for an unbiased review ***
So, this wasn't like an usual story about gods and goddesses. That's first of all because it takes place in the "Temple of Power" where (in spite of the name) no god has access to his or her powers. They are just as powerful as humans. So why make them gods? That might be because their society seems very different to ours. The connection between parents and children and also the responsebility that already lies on some shoulders. They are directly acquainted with "superiors" although the young gods don't hold rang yet.
Marduk is the 22-year old mesopotamian god of storms. He attends college for young gods at the temple of power and has friends there, Shala and Nanya. He had already been with goddesses but never with a god. But he is is vey attracted to the great god Shamash, who he admires and the egyptian deity Aya. So he is very pleased and excited when Aya invites him to a party.
But there Marduk is humiliated, abused and raped. He couldn't have known that this was just the beginnning of his torture.
The order of Gods holds him as their pet and his master Shamash lends him to other gods, and makes him entertain everyone at parties. He was betrayed by both Aya and Shamash and he doesn't want to participate, but because of his fear for the consequences (and they are quite severe) he doesn't refuse openly.
He is almost broken when he meets Anu. They hit off and gradually become closer, but romantic reationships outside of the order are forbidden. And there's also Marduk's only chance of escaping the order. To bring another virgin god to the order.
This book was interesting, I liked the storyline and the characters (or hated them, but that was natural). Marduk's emotions were realistic, you could feel how he hurt when he realized the betrayal and his trying to cope with his fate was very believable.
Sometimes I did think that Marduk could have handled the situation a bit better, I mean he wasn't imprisoned on the temple grounds, so he should have been able to find help outside.
Most of this book is about Marduk and the time with Anu is only after about 2/3 of the book. I would have wished to have more time with both of them, the end also seemed a bit rushed.
But I would definitely recommend it to everyone who is interested in the world of the gods but who doesn't have a problem with BDSM and dub- or even non-con. Because that is present in the book. But it was very interesting and gripping and I very much enjoyed reading it.
So, this wasn't like an usual story about gods and goddesses. That's first of all because it takes place in the "Temple of Power" where (in spite of the name) no god has access to his or her powers. They are just as powerful as humans. So why make them gods? That might be because their society seems very different to ours. The connection between parents and children and also the responsebility that already lies on some shoulders. They are directly acquainted with "superiors" although the young gods don't hold rang yet.
Marduk is the 22-year old mesopotamian god of storms. He attends college for young gods at the temple of power and has friends there, Shala and Nanya. He had already been with goddesses but never with a god. But he is is vey attracted to the great god Shamash, who he admires and the egyptian deity Aya. So he is very pleased and excited when Aya invites him to a party.
But there Marduk is humiliated, abused and raped. He couldn't have known that this was just the beginnning of his torture.
The order of Gods holds him as their pet and his master Shamash lends him to other gods, and makes him entertain everyone at parties. He was betrayed by both Aya and Shamash and he doesn't want to participate, but because of his fear for the consequences (and they are quite severe) he doesn't refuse openly.
He is almost broken when he meets Anu. They hit off and gradually become closer, but romantic reationships outside of the order are forbidden. And there's also Marduk's only chance of escaping the order. To bring another virgin god to the order.
This book was interesting, I liked the storyline and the characters (or hated them, but that was natural). Marduk's emotions were realistic, you could feel how he hurt when he realized the betrayal and his trying to cope with his fate was very believable.
Sometimes I did think that Marduk could have handled the situation a bit better, I mean he wasn't imprisoned on the temple grounds, so he should have been able to find help outside.
Most of this book is about Marduk and the time with Anu is only after about 2/3 of the book. I would have wished to have more time with both of them, the end also seemed a bit rushed.
But I would definitely recommend it to everyone who is interested in the world of the gods but who doesn't have a problem with BDSM and dub- or even non-con. Because that is present in the book. But it was very interesting and gripping and I very much enjoyed reading it.
August 10, 2016
This was absolutely fantastic; I couldn't put it down. The writing style is beautiful, and it's clear Ms. Johanis has an exceptional grasp of mythology and well-constructed fantasy. This is an unusual view of ancient cultures' gods and goddesses.
I rarely read books with non-con because too often, it's softened, played up for reader sympathy, used as a method to get the main pair to hook up, or handled badly all-around. None of that is to be found in this story. I appreciate how clear the distinction is, both physically and psychologically, between the rape and the genuine intimacy. It's even clear when pseudo-intimacy is employed. The only part that might loosely be labeled as "dubious consent" between the main romantic leads is mitigated by several factors and is not a decision made lightly by either party. Ultimately, neither one feels shame for the act itself, only for the the events which unfold afterward.
Marduk starts out as a bit of a playboy, a typical cute-and-mostly-knows-it type. And then his whole world is shattered by unbearable violence. What I love about the way it's written is that he never becomes fragile, not even when he's reached the limit on what he can handle. Although he believes himself to be a failure, his actions continue to demonstrate his strength and resilience. He remains true to himself and his principles. Throughout, he is convinced there must be a better way to resolve his problems than the easy route.
By contrast, Anu-Akad is, on the surface, mild and timid. He seems just as unlikely a hero as Marduk, and at first, he seems willing to resign himself to whatever he is told must happen. It's a pleasure to watch him grow into his nobility. The unfolding of his relationship with his father is both gut-wrenching and heartbreaking as they seek to reconcile their difficult history.
This is really not a story for the faint of heart. It carries heavy warnings for a lot of material of a mature, graphic nature. But that's not the appeal of the tale. It's in the grappling with underlying emotions that the real story is told. All in all, utterly captivating.
I rarely read books with non-con because too often, it's softened, played up for reader sympathy, used as a method to get the main pair to hook up, or handled badly all-around. None of that is to be found in this story. I appreciate how clear the distinction is, both physically and psychologically, between the rape and the genuine intimacy. It's even clear when pseudo-intimacy is employed. The only part that might loosely be labeled as "dubious consent" between the main romantic leads is mitigated by several factors and is not a decision made lightly by either party. Ultimately, neither one feels shame for the act itself, only for the the events which unfold afterward.
Marduk starts out as a bit of a playboy, a typical cute-and-mostly-knows-it type. And then his whole world is shattered by unbearable violence. What I love about the way it's written is that he never becomes fragile, not even when he's reached the limit on what he can handle. Although he believes himself to be a failure, his actions continue to demonstrate his strength and resilience. He remains true to himself and his principles. Throughout, he is convinced there must be a better way to resolve his problems than the easy route.
By contrast, Anu-Akad is, on the surface, mild and timid. He seems just as unlikely a hero as Marduk, and at first, he seems willing to resign himself to whatever he is told must happen. It's a pleasure to watch him grow into his nobility. The unfolding of his relationship with his father is both gut-wrenching and heartbreaking as they seek to reconcile their difficult history.
This is really not a story for the faint of heart. It carries heavy warnings for a lot of material of a mature, graphic nature. But that's not the appeal of the tale. It's in the grappling with underlying emotions that the real story is told. All in all, utterly captivating.
June 6, 2015
Riveting story! I was blown away by the darkness of the gods and their amoral world and literally could not put this book down once I started reading it. Johanis has done an exceptional job in her depiction of dark M/M BDSM (non-consensual) juxtaposed with an almost painfully intimate storytelling that delves into the fall of an innocent who is attacked and abused by those who should have been his protectors. The story begins with the beautiful and gentle Marduk who is starting his first day at a special academy where the young gods and goddesses go for schooling. Within this college is a secret order that delights in inflicting pain, suffering, and humiliation on certain select innocents in dark acts of BDSM. Marduk is claimed by this powerful order and forced to submit to their sexual abuses. He pulls away from his friends and tries to hide his shame and anger at what is being done to him. Then Akad shows up and Marduk falls in love. The unfolding of their relationship is beautiful and tender but Akad's dark and brutal side emerges in bits and pieces and foreshadows further darkness in Marduk and Akad's developing relationship. I am enthralled by the world of the gods and cannot wait to read the next book in this series.
June 25, 2015
So, I simply had to read this book when it was offered. I'm a mythology buff, and so many pantheons are represented here. A school for the gods is just an awesome idea, and makes for a riveting read. It has a lot of darkness in it, clearly. My heart can't help but reach out to Marduk when he's tricked and trapped by the order. For a storm god to be reduced to little better than a slave, it's rather heart wrenching. Wasn't a fan that my favorite pantheon, the Greeks, were so high strung and frankly jerks, but it happens. Then there's Akad, destined to be a supreme god with so much power, yet so timid and shy. Both are victims in different situations, and when they come together it's almost sweet, until dark sides comes to the surface but still. I wasn't disappointed at all. This was such a good read I got angry when I stopped halfway through to go participate in real life. I have to read the rest of this trilogy when it's out because this was just too good.
January 16, 2016
3.5 - 4 stars
I picked this book up while it was free, for a short time on Smashwords. I enjoyed the setting, but didn't entirely understand the set up. Going to a school to learn how to use powers, but stripped of the ones you have at the gates.
That said, the story held my attention throughout and I really liked the side characters, Nanya and Shala.
Marduk endures a lot. More than any person should have to. I'm no stranger to non-con stories but by the end I found myself saying, enough already. Is that a good or bad thing? IDK.
I recommend this story to readers who enjoy darker reads and aren't disturbed by copious amounts of non consensual sex.
I picked this book up while it was free, for a short time on Smashwords. I enjoyed the setting, but didn't entirely understand the set up. Going to a school to learn how to use powers, but stripped of the ones you have at the gates.
That said, the story held my attention throughout and I really liked the side characters, Nanya and Shala.
Marduk endures a lot. More than any person should have to. I'm no stranger to non-con stories but by the end I found myself saying, enough already. Is that a good or bad thing? IDK.
I recommend this story to readers who enjoy darker reads and aren't disturbed by copious amounts of non consensual sex.
June 30, 2015
Original review on Molly Lolly
Four and a half stars!
I’m going to start by saying that this book is not for the feint of heart. If you don’t enjoy non-con stories, then you should pass on this book. I enjoy them. Not all, there’s some really bad stuff out there. That said, this book is amazing. It was so interesting seeing gods and goddesses from ancient cultures together in one place interacting, and how the mythology factors into their personalities. I feel bad for Aya because I get why he did what he did. He also deserves more than he got and I’m hoping the next book in the series we will see him happy in some way. Marduk has a true heart of gold. He did all he could to save the man he loves. It’s a testament to his honor that he didn’t take the route Aya went. I’m interested how Adak is going to treat Marduk in the next book based on what happens right at the end of this one. Marduk deserves to be happy fully and completely. I’m also interested to find out what happens to the Order now that the Council leader, Siren, knows. I really enjoyed this story and the writing style. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series.
Four and a half stars!
I’m going to start by saying that this book is not for the feint of heart. If you don’t enjoy non-con stories, then you should pass on this book. I enjoy them. Not all, there’s some really bad stuff out there. That said, this book is amazing. It was so interesting seeing gods and goddesses from ancient cultures together in one place interacting, and how the mythology factors into their personalities. I feel bad for Aya because I get why he did what he did. He also deserves more than he got and I’m hoping the next book in the series we will see him happy in some way. Marduk has a true heart of gold. He did all he could to save the man he loves. It’s a testament to his honor that he didn’t take the route Aya went. I’m interested how Adak is going to treat Marduk in the next book based on what happens right at the end of this one. Marduk deserves to be happy fully and completely. I’m also interested to find out what happens to the Order now that the Council leader, Siren, knows. I really enjoyed this story and the writing style. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series.
June 22, 2015
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
Marduk is glad to be attending college along with his fellow Gods and Goddesses and when he finds himself falling for Aya, little does he know that it’s a trap that will lead to the worst kind of abuse, at the hands of those he thought were his teachers and protectors. Attending his classes during the day and serving the demands of the higher deities each evening, Marduks life becomes a living hell that he can only escape if he finds someone to take his place.
A new and very powerful God arrives at the temple and there is an instant attraction between him and Marduk, so much so, Marduk will do all he can to protect his love from falling into the hands of The Order, even if this means he will be punished further.
I shouldn’t enjoy a book that centres around so much sexual abuse but somehow, I was drawn in and couldn’t put it down. I loved the character of Marduk and the story wasn’t told in a way that made me feel sorry for him, I always felt that it would somehow work out. There’s an HFN ending and although you know there’s more to come it in no way leaves you hanging. I look forward to the next installment.
Marduk is glad to be attending college along with his fellow Gods and Goddesses and when he finds himself falling for Aya, little does he know that it’s a trap that will lead to the worst kind of abuse, at the hands of those he thought were his teachers and protectors. Attending his classes during the day and serving the demands of the higher deities each evening, Marduks life becomes a living hell that he can only escape if he finds someone to take his place.
A new and very powerful God arrives at the temple and there is an instant attraction between him and Marduk, so much so, Marduk will do all he can to protect his love from falling into the hands of The Order, even if this means he will be punished further.
I shouldn’t enjoy a book that centres around so much sexual abuse but somehow, I was drawn in and couldn’t put it down. I loved the character of Marduk and the story wasn’t told in a way that made me feel sorry for him, I always felt that it would somehow work out. There’s an HFN ending and although you know there’s more to come it in no way leaves you hanging. I look forward to the next installment.
July 6, 2015
Disclaimer: This book was provided to me for free in exchange for an honest review.
I read this book in 7 hours. At first I was worried because I don't generally read books about Gods/Immortals. However, I was quickly hooked by the main character and his goddess friends.
The storyline is great, enticing and very different. The setting was believable in a magical way. Everything seemed so rich and elegant. I pictured the Goddess's as stunning beauties and the God's handsome and powerful.
I personally would have liked for it to have included more details of the sex scenes and a few more punishment scenes, but that's just my kinky reading preferences which I cannot fault the book for.
Absolutely loved the ending.
I am hooked and will definitely read any subsequent books that come out.
I read this book in 7 hours. At first I was worried because I don't generally read books about Gods/Immortals. However, I was quickly hooked by the main character and his goddess friends.
The storyline is great, enticing and very different. The setting was believable in a magical way. Everything seemed so rich and elegant. I pictured the Goddess's as stunning beauties and the God's handsome and powerful.
I personally would have liked for it to have included more details of the sex scenes and a few more punishment scenes, but that's just my kinky reading preferences which I cannot fault the book for.
Absolutely loved the ending.
I am hooked and will definitely read any subsequent books that come out.
September 3, 2016
This book was one of the few truly great darks I have read. It actually kept me interested through till the last page and even after that. Its a definite must read especially if you like the whole gods and goddesses thing a definite recommendation. The way the author portrays all the characters Marduk's pain and suffering or Anu-akads indecisiveness to go against his father...amazing!
September 17, 2015
This book was provided by the author via IndiGo Marketing & Design in exchange for an honest review.
I don’t normally read books based in mythology so I can’t say whether or not that aspect of the story was accurate or not. I did recognize some of the characters. Marduk is a young god attending college at the Temple of Power. It’s not long before he is tricked into becoming a member of the Order—a secret society run by the older gods. While he continues to act like nothing is out of the ordinary to his friends at school, he is made to be a sex slave to the gods with no way out other than to lure another virgin god in, the same way he was. But Marduk doesn’t want anyone else to go through what he is having to endure.
Then Akad, son of a higher god, shows up and he and Marduk are immediately drawn to each other. Akad is very shy with his own issues where his very powerful father is concerned. Marduk and Akad see each other secretly, but when Marduk tries to protect Akad from the Order, it backfires on him and Akad is furious with him. With some help, Marduk along with Akad, are able to exact their revenge against the Order. By the end, Marduk and Akad are both well on their way to finding their place at the Temple of Power.
I felt bad for Marduk. He was tricked into his position with the Order. He does become manipulative but I saw it was self-preservation and a way to deal with a bad situation. I felt the first part of the story flowed well but after a while it started to drag a bit for me. It felt a bit repetitive. I got the point. He was being forced into sexual slavery and he was really good at turning the situation around. I thought that seemed to drag on too long. The story picked back up though once Akad and Marduk’s relationship is introduced into the story. At that point I was drawn back in and found it hard to put down. I found the end set up very well for the next book and I’m very interested to see how the story plays out in the second book. This story is not for the faint at heart. There are some scenes with some particularly gruesome bits of torture, but they weren’t gratuitous and went well with the storyline. Overall, I’m glad I read this one and would recommend it to others who enjoy mythology and darker, non-con stories.
I don’t normally read books based in mythology so I can’t say whether or not that aspect of the story was accurate or not. I did recognize some of the characters. Marduk is a young god attending college at the Temple of Power. It’s not long before he is tricked into becoming a member of the Order—a secret society run by the older gods. While he continues to act like nothing is out of the ordinary to his friends at school, he is made to be a sex slave to the gods with no way out other than to lure another virgin god in, the same way he was. But Marduk doesn’t want anyone else to go through what he is having to endure.
Then Akad, son of a higher god, shows up and he and Marduk are immediately drawn to each other. Akad is very shy with his own issues where his very powerful father is concerned. Marduk and Akad see each other secretly, but when Marduk tries to protect Akad from the Order, it backfires on him and Akad is furious with him. With some help, Marduk along with Akad, are able to exact their revenge against the Order. By the end, Marduk and Akad are both well on their way to finding their place at the Temple of Power.
I felt bad for Marduk. He was tricked into his position with the Order. He does become manipulative but I saw it was self-preservation and a way to deal with a bad situation. I felt the first part of the story flowed well but after a while it started to drag a bit for me. It felt a bit repetitive. I got the point. He was being forced into sexual slavery and he was really good at turning the situation around. I thought that seemed to drag on too long. The story picked back up though once Akad and Marduk’s relationship is introduced into the story. At that point I was drawn back in and found it hard to put down. I found the end set up very well for the next book and I’m very interested to see how the story plays out in the second book. This story is not for the faint at heart. There are some scenes with some particularly gruesome bits of torture, but they weren’t gratuitous and went well with the storyline. Overall, I’m glad I read this one and would recommend it to others who enjoy mythology and darker, non-con stories.
September 11, 2018
This was a different kind of read for me. It combines fantasy with dark bdsm elements. I enjoyed the story and checked out other books by J. Johanis.
July 28, 2015
FiveStars
This book contains graphic scenes of non-consensual sex. They are not used as a romantic plot device.
This was absolutely fantastic; I couldn't put it down. The writing style is beautiful, and it's clear Ms. Johanis has an exceptional grasp of mythology and well-constructed fantasy. This is an unusual view of ancient cultures' gods and goddesses.
I rarely read books with non-con because too often, it's softened, played up for reader sympathy, used as a method to get the main pair to hook up, or handled badly all-around. None of that is to be found in this story. I appreciate how clear the distinction is, both physically and psychologically, between the rape and the genuine intimacy. It's even clear when pseudo-intimacy is employed. The only part that might loosely be labeled as "dubious consent" between the main romantic leads is mitigated by several factors and is not a decision made lightly by either party. Ultimately, neither one feels shame for the act itself, only for the the events which unfold afterward.
Marduk starts out as a bit of a playboy, a typical cute-and-mostly-knows-it type. And then his whole world is shattered by unbearable violence. What I love about the way it's written is that he never becomes fragile, not even when he's reached the limit on what he can handle. Although he believes himself to be a failure, his actions continue to demonstrate his strength and resilience. He remains true to himself and his principles. Throughout, he is convinced there must be a better way to resolve his problems than the easy route.
By contrast, Anu-Akad is, on the surface, mild and timid. He seems just as unlikely a hero as Marduk, and at first, he seems willing to resign himself to whatever he is told must happen. It's a pleasure to watch him grow into his nobility. The unfolding of his relationship with his father is both gut-wrenching and heartbreaking as they seek to reconcile their difficult history.
This is really not a story for the faint of heart. It carries heavy warnings for a lot of material of a mature, graphic nature. But that's not the appeal of the tale. It's in the grappling with underlying emotions that the real story is told. All in all, utterly captivating.
I was given this in return for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.
Amy
FourandHalfStars
I'm not normally a Mythology reader, so I sat on the border debating on if I wanted to read this book. Really I did. The synopsis was interesting, the cover was hot as hell.... but it was outside my normal genre. However, I decided to give it a go just to shake things up...... Gotta tell you. I'm SO glad I did.
YES, the book is DARK and there is some seriously twisted things going on... but it was so incredibly captivating and well written that I couldn't put it down.
I found myself being tugged around emotionally by the author. I'd start to want one thing only to discover that SHRIEK I didn't want that and run the other way only to find that maybe that wasn't a great way either... It was just simply fantastic. I loved it. Good, Bad and Everything else that Marduk goes through.
I can say that I can't attest to anything to do with the mythological side of things, but I do read quite a few dark books so maybe it is me, but I felt like it really could've been amped up a bit with some descriptions of what was going on or emotions... sometimes we'd get more of one or the other and I felt a TEEENY bit lacking there, but it is entirely possible that it is a personal thing so I only knocked half a star off.
All in all I will definitely be seeking out more books from this author.
I was given this in return for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.
Renee
This book contains graphic scenes of non-consensual sex. They are not used as a romantic plot device.
This was absolutely fantastic; I couldn't put it down. The writing style is beautiful, and it's clear Ms. Johanis has an exceptional grasp of mythology and well-constructed fantasy. This is an unusual view of ancient cultures' gods and goddesses.
I rarely read books with non-con because too often, it's softened, played up for reader sympathy, used as a method to get the main pair to hook up, or handled badly all-around. None of that is to be found in this story. I appreciate how clear the distinction is, both physically and psychologically, between the rape and the genuine intimacy. It's even clear when pseudo-intimacy is employed. The only part that might loosely be labeled as "dubious consent" between the main romantic leads is mitigated by several factors and is not a decision made lightly by either party. Ultimately, neither one feels shame for the act itself, only for the the events which unfold afterward.
Marduk starts out as a bit of a playboy, a typical cute-and-mostly-knows-it type. And then his whole world is shattered by unbearable violence. What I love about the way it's written is that he never becomes fragile, not even when he's reached the limit on what he can handle. Although he believes himself to be a failure, his actions continue to demonstrate his strength and resilience. He remains true to himself and his principles. Throughout, he is convinced there must be a better way to resolve his problems than the easy route.
By contrast, Anu-Akad is, on the surface, mild and timid. He seems just as unlikely a hero as Marduk, and at first, he seems willing to resign himself to whatever he is told must happen. It's a pleasure to watch him grow into his nobility. The unfolding of his relationship with his father is both gut-wrenching and heartbreaking as they seek to reconcile their difficult history.
This is really not a story for the faint of heart. It carries heavy warnings for a lot of material of a mature, graphic nature. But that's not the appeal of the tale. It's in the grappling with underlying emotions that the real story is told. All in all, utterly captivating.
I was given this in return for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.
Amy
FourandHalfStars
I'm not normally a Mythology reader, so I sat on the border debating on if I wanted to read this book. Really I did. The synopsis was interesting, the cover was hot as hell.... but it was outside my normal genre. However, I decided to give it a go just to shake things up...... Gotta tell you. I'm SO glad I did.
YES, the book is DARK and there is some seriously twisted things going on... but it was so incredibly captivating and well written that I couldn't put it down.
I found myself being tugged around emotionally by the author. I'd start to want one thing only to discover that SHRIEK I didn't want that and run the other way only to find that maybe that wasn't a great way either... It was just simply fantastic. I loved it. Good, Bad and Everything else that Marduk goes through.
I can say that I can't attest to anything to do with the mythological side of things, but I do read quite a few dark books so maybe it is me, but I felt like it really could've been amped up a bit with some descriptions of what was going on or emotions... sometimes we'd get more of one or the other and I felt a TEEENY bit lacking there, but it is entirely possible that it is a personal thing so I only knocked half a star off.
All in all I will definitely be seeking out more books from this author.
I was given this in return for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.
Renee
July 14, 2016
I was grateful to get the chance to beta this story before it was complete. This review is for the completely completed, published book which was provided in exchange for an honest review.
College, even for gods, is supposed to be a time of learning to rule the world and finding yourself. Well, Marduk found his way into a load of unwanted trouble. In comes the Mesopotamian, Egyptian and Greek gods/goddesses who make his life a living hell.
I had a hard time putting this book down! I haven't read many mythology books (that I've noticed) but this one made me want to seek out more. Ms. Johanis delivered on her promise dark non-con/dub-con kink.
The campus: Was described in a way that made me want to visit. Just for vacation, because them teachers are scary.
Marduk: I felt so bad for him. The struggle he went through felt quite real. His adoration turned to hate, his indecision on what path to take, the attempt at manipulation. I was on a mini roller coaster of being scared for him and cheering him on. I was also glad no Stockholm syndrome went on here.
Akad: I would scream and throw my panties on stage, but I don't think he'd appreciate that. He had his own struggles and indecisiveness that made the ending just so much sweeter.
Aya:
Seth: The hate I have for this man is on a whole 'nother level. I don't even need a reason.
I would recommend to mythology lovers and especially anyone who likes the dark.
College, even for gods, is supposed to be a time of learning to rule the world and finding yourself. Well, Marduk found his way into a load of unwanted trouble. In comes the Mesopotamian, Egyptian and Greek gods/goddesses who make his life a living hell.
I had a hard time putting this book down! I haven't read many mythology books (that I've noticed) but this one made me want to seek out more. Ms. Johanis delivered on her promise dark non-con/dub-con kink.
The campus: Was described in a way that made me want to visit. Just for vacation, because them teachers are scary.
Marduk: I felt so bad for him. The struggle he went through felt quite real. His adoration turned to hate, his indecision on what path to take, the attempt at manipulation. I was on a mini roller coaster of being scared for him and cheering him on. I was also glad no Stockholm syndrome went on here.
Akad: I would scream and throw my panties on stage, but I don't think he'd appreciate that. He had his own struggles and indecisiveness that made the ending just so much sweeter.
Aya:
Seth: The hate I have for this man is on a whole 'nother level. I don't even need a reason.
I would recommend to mythology lovers and especially anyone who likes the dark.
July 16, 2015
I was gifted this book for review by indego Marking reading team.
Having said that this is an honest review. I don't normally like mm books, but I do love a dark read. This was just that and more.
The book mainly centres around one main character..Marduk, who is a young God, who's sent to a school for gods. Whilst at the school, all the gods are stripped of their powers, so making then equals to each other, supposedly no power over another. They are taught to love and fight. But Marduk is inducted into the Order, at the request of another. He's forced into sexual servitude, with one hope of escape...find a virgin God for the group..as he had been.
He is so against the to and what they stand for..council leaders and his teachers of all people. The ultimate betrayal, people who should protect and teach, abuse their authority.
Marduk is such a lovely guy, and character...I feel in love with him. He falls in love with a new very powerful God called Akad, who ultimately us his saviour in every way.love and from the council, and he does it in style.
This book is dark, you experiance Marduks pain and suffering, his degradation, and it's endless.
But I loved this book..great read, and I can't wait to read more from this author. My only issue would be, was I found the strange names hard to follow, only because the names were alien to me, except Zeus , and. Poseidon of course!
Having said that this is an honest review. I don't normally like mm books, but I do love a dark read. This was just that and more.
The book mainly centres around one main character..Marduk, who is a young God, who's sent to a school for gods. Whilst at the school, all the gods are stripped of their powers, so making then equals to each other, supposedly no power over another. They are taught to love and fight. But Marduk is inducted into the Order, at the request of another. He's forced into sexual servitude, with one hope of escape...find a virgin God for the group..as he had been.
He is so against the to and what they stand for..council leaders and his teachers of all people. The ultimate betrayal, people who should protect and teach, abuse their authority.
Marduk is such a lovely guy, and character...I feel in love with him. He falls in love with a new very powerful God called Akad, who ultimately us his saviour in every way.love and from the council, and he does it in style.
This book is dark, you experiance Marduks pain and suffering, his degradation, and it's endless.
But I loved this book..great read, and I can't wait to read more from this author. My only issue would be, was I found the strange names hard to follow, only because the names were alien to me, except Zeus , and. Poseidon of course!
July 28, 2015
FourandHalfStars
I'm not normally a Mythology reader, so I sat on the border debating on if I wanted to read this book. Really I did. The synopsis was interesting, the cover was hot as hell.... but it was outside my normal genre. However, I decided to give it a go just to shake things up...... Gotta tell you. I'm SO glad I did.
YES, the book is DARK and there is some seriously twisted things going on... but it was so incredibly captivating and well written that I couldn't put it down.
I found myself being tugged around emotionally by the author. I'd start to want one thing only to discover that SHRIEK I didn't want that and run the other way only to find that maybe that wasn't a great way either... It was just simply fantastic. I loved it. Good, Bad and Everything else that Marduk goes through.
I can say that I can't attest to anything to do with the mythological side of things, but I do read quite a few dark books so maybe it is me, but I felt like it really could've been amped up a bit with some descriptions of what was going on or emotions... sometimes we'd get more of one or the other and I felt a TEEENY bit lacking there, but it is entirely possible that it is a personal thing so I only knocked half a star off.
All in all I will definitely be seeking out more books from this author.
I was given this in return for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.
Renee
I'm not normally a Mythology reader, so I sat on the border debating on if I wanted to read this book. Really I did. The synopsis was interesting, the cover was hot as hell.... but it was outside my normal genre. However, I decided to give it a go just to shake things up...... Gotta tell you. I'm SO glad I did.
YES, the book is DARK and there is some seriously twisted things going on... but it was so incredibly captivating and well written that I couldn't put it down.
I found myself being tugged around emotionally by the author. I'd start to want one thing only to discover that SHRIEK I didn't want that and run the other way only to find that maybe that wasn't a great way either... It was just simply fantastic. I loved it. Good, Bad and Everything else that Marduk goes through.
I can say that I can't attest to anything to do with the mythological side of things, but I do read quite a few dark books so maybe it is me, but I felt like it really could've been amped up a bit with some descriptions of what was going on or emotions... sometimes we'd get more of one or the other and I felt a TEEENY bit lacking there, but it is entirely possible that it is a personal thing so I only knocked half a star off.
All in all I will definitely be seeking out more books from this author.
I was given this in return for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.
Renee
July 23, 2016
I really enjoyed the author's take on ancient Greek mythology. The way that J. Johanis portrayed the gods and goddesses and their immoral and pleasure-seeking behaviors was captivating, but also realistic. I also thought that the fantasy element was nicely executed. The story is that of Marduk, a 22-year-old God of Storm, who visits the Temple of Power which is a university-like establishment for deities. The young gods and goddesses are there to learn about themselves and their powers. Marduk is enthralled by the many beautiful gods and goddesses at the temple, but he soon finds himself attracted to Akad a young prominent god that is the son of a council member. Marduk ends up being given a choice by the Order, either they keep him or he delivers Akad.
This story is not for everyone as it does have some non-con; however, I felt that the author strikes a good balance. I found some scenes to be intense, but not overwhelming. I would highly recommend this book for readers who enjoy M/M dark romance/erotica with some elements of dubious consent. This book is well written and enticing. You will not be disappointed.
This story is not for everyone as it does have some non-con; however, I felt that the author strikes a good balance. I found some scenes to be intense, but not overwhelming. I would highly recommend this book for readers who enjoy M/M dark romance/erotica with some elements of dubious consent. This book is well written and enticing. You will not be disappointed.
August 11, 2016
Frankly, I’m just a bit surprised to see another side of mythology and ancient cultures. Greek gods and goddesses, and dark erotica are a type of vice to me, and this author introduced various deities of ancient civilizations and added so much more—with her beautiful language and well-constructed characters and unusual point of view—to the recipe that I’m left utterly pleased and smiling. I have to say, when I began reading this dark erotic tale, I expected to find another repetitive M/M story—throw in some mythology and it’s a disaster. It turned out to be a riveting read. Pretty amazing even: the nonconsensual bits aren’t romanticized to death, and there’s no downplay of violence. I also liked how the author shows the reader that gods can be thoughtful and vulnerable, or ruthless and unsympathetic. And Marduk and Akad complement each other in such a way that it’s all the more believable. One has an overblown ego, the other is inherently shy. I recommend this book to anyone who loves M/M dark erotic romances.
June 22, 2015
I really felt sorry for Marduk, he was betrayed and tricked at every turn. Abused, humiliated and raped. Everyone seemed to have it in for him.
I didn't like Akad which made the whole premise of the book difficult for me.
The ending was strange, it was a massive leap and didn't quite work.
As a side note:
All the characters have freakily supreme penis control.
"Today in class we are going to have sex" (I'm paraphrasing)
Ok, instant boner.
Maybe this is something to do with their god status, I don't know but I found it irritating.
I also didn't like the Prelude To Book 2.
Despite my problems with it, this book is well written and it kept me hooked.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
February 22, 2016
Solid 4.5. Wow not sure where to start. I fell for Marduk from the get even when he was playing the play boy type with the other gods, and yes I understood why he did it. The Order, not even sure where to begin with that. How long had this been going on & why didn't anyone find out about it. I know several were sadists but still you would have thought someone would have outed them. Marduk and Anu loved watching these two fall in love. They should have trusted each other and wish there was more communication between the two but I did understand the trust issue. I wished there would have had more time with both of them. Also the end also seemed a bit rushed. I do want to see what happens between these two as well as some of the secondary characters.
May 20, 2015
I received an advance review copy for an honest review.
A dark erotic tale of m/m lust and dominance. Marduk is tricked and blackmailed into being the toy of a group of more powerful deities. The story follows his mental twists and turns as he tries to reconcile what is being done to him with his own towering ego. There is a little romance, and the book connects to briefly to Siren's reckoning but the two are stand alone tales. Excellent read if you like the darker side of erotic tales, if not, probably not your cup of tea.
July 26, 2015
Dark and sexy.
Fierce gods, erotic situations, and a sexy main character... Claimed by the Order takes the reader into the world of the ancient gods, following Marduk as he finds himself in a series of compromising situations. This book is dark and sexy, just the way I like them—possibly not for the faint of heart. 5 stars from me!
Fierce gods, erotic situations, and a sexy main character... Claimed by the Order takes the reader into the world of the ancient gods, following Marduk as he finds himself in a series of compromising situations. This book is dark and sexy, just the way I like them—possibly not for the faint of heart. 5 stars from me!
Read
September 30, 2015Review to come.
July 21, 2015
[The author gave me a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review]
I'll start by saying that this is the furtherest thing from what I would read, if not for the author asking me to. Gay erotica is not something I would normally seek out but this book honestly was really good. I read it two days time of receiving it, took me maybe seven eight hours total if even that, and keep in mind I DO NOT read these kinds of books. The story really grabs you and makes you want to keep going, it is such a quick and easy read, as long as you're not squeamish.
Basically the main character Marduk is a god who like all young gods has left the nest and gone away to god college. Being on his own for the first time, as most college kids, Marduk was eager to experiment with his sexuality and ends up being seduced into joining the worlds worst fraternity, where they give a new definition to the term "rough hazing". For some one like myself who went through the process of joining a fraternity in college I can say that this guy had it pretty bad. The author did a good job of capturing the functionality of an age old brother hood. The new members are often sympathetic towards the new guys and the older members have extreme hazing boners...pun intended. Along the way Marduk finds out the only way out is to screw some one else over, creating a great internal conflict, as he happens to fall in love with the guy they want him the screw over. I don't want to spoil the ending of anything so I will just leave it as that.
The books far from perfect and man is the sexual violence intense. I would not call this erotica as much a brutal rape-otica. Theres a lot of scenes in this book that really made my stomach turn, but hey they kept me reading and thats a testament to the author. The violence was not unneeded though, it was the driving the force behind the plot and paired with good characters and conflict it made for a good read. There were certain repetitive phrases used throughout the book but I haven't read a story where there hasn't been. The only other problem is that many of the supporting characters, the council members in particular are very one dimensional, they seem to just enjoy asserting their dominance over others, but the main cast is fleshed out well.
The coolest part of the book was that the characters were all ancient gods and goddesses and it put a real spin on the idea of being immortal. Everyone was cool with sleeping with boy guys and girls, although it seemed to lean a little to heavy on the homo-sexual preference. I wish that the characters were all a little more bisexual rather than just bisexuals who preferred men.
So would I read this story again, probably not, but that has a lot to do with the content rather than the writing. If you are into this kind of stuff then this is the book for you, if you are some one who is homophobic or shies away from rape and brutality then I'm not even sure why you are reading this review. If you are open to anything, like I am then give it a shot, it's only four bucks.
I'll start by saying that this is the furtherest thing from what I would read, if not for the author asking me to. Gay erotica is not something I would normally seek out but this book honestly was really good. I read it two days time of receiving it, took me maybe seven eight hours total if even that, and keep in mind I DO NOT read these kinds of books. The story really grabs you and makes you want to keep going, it is such a quick and easy read, as long as you're not squeamish.
Basically the main character Marduk is a god who like all young gods has left the nest and gone away to god college. Being on his own for the first time, as most college kids, Marduk was eager to experiment with his sexuality and ends up being seduced into joining the worlds worst fraternity, where they give a new definition to the term "rough hazing". For some one like myself who went through the process of joining a fraternity in college I can say that this guy had it pretty bad. The author did a good job of capturing the functionality of an age old brother hood. The new members are often sympathetic towards the new guys and the older members have extreme hazing boners...pun intended. Along the way Marduk finds out the only way out is to screw some one else over, creating a great internal conflict, as he happens to fall in love with the guy they want him the screw over. I don't want to spoil the ending of anything so I will just leave it as that.
The books far from perfect and man is the sexual violence intense. I would not call this erotica as much a brutal rape-otica. Theres a lot of scenes in this book that really made my stomach turn, but hey they kept me reading and thats a testament to the author. The violence was not unneeded though, it was the driving the force behind the plot and paired with good characters and conflict it made for a good read. There were certain repetitive phrases used throughout the book but I haven't read a story where there hasn't been. The only other problem is that many of the supporting characters, the council members in particular are very one dimensional, they seem to just enjoy asserting their dominance over others, but the main cast is fleshed out well.
The coolest part of the book was that the characters were all ancient gods and goddesses and it put a real spin on the idea of being immortal. Everyone was cool with sleeping with boy guys and girls, although it seemed to lean a little to heavy on the homo-sexual preference. I wish that the characters were all a little more bisexual rather than just bisexuals who preferred men.
So would I read this story again, probably not, but that has a lot to do with the content rather than the writing. If you are into this kind of stuff then this is the book for you, if you are some one who is homophobic or shies away from rape and brutality then I'm not even sure why you are reading this review. If you are open to anything, like I am then give it a shot, it's only four bucks.
February 5, 2016
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I think the plot of this story was very interesting, i liked it since the begining of the story, i found it intriguing and wanting to know what will happen with all the characters, it had a good pace and it kept my atention all the time. Sadly i didn't liked it as i thought i would and i have several reason why, but most of them might be spoilers, so i'm going to try to keep it as away from spoilers as i can. Even if i didn't loved the story, i still want to know what comes next and i know i will be looking for the next book.
The things i liked were the pace, the plot, as i said very interesting, there was a character named Akad who i was fascinated by, i liked him and the way he interact with others, specialy with his father.
The things i didn't like was that sometimes it felt too repetitive in some actions,sometimes it was like i was reading the same scene again and i didn't find any purpose in some of them, i disliked very much the MC Marduk mostly because i didn't believe in some of his emotion and some of his actions were too ambiguos.
Other thing i liked was the portray of how power and fear can make a person take decision otherwise wouldn't be done.
I think that the story have some potential and i can see a lot of people liking it, i recomend to read the Content Advisory on the blurb.
I want to be more specific on the things i didn't like but it will contain soilers.
I think the plot of this story was very interesting, i liked it since the begining of the story, i found it intriguing and wanting to know what will happen with all the characters, it had a good pace and it kept my atention all the time. Sadly i didn't liked it as i thought i would and i have several reason why, but most of them might be spoilers, so i'm going to try to keep it as away from spoilers as i can. Even if i didn't loved the story, i still want to know what comes next and i know i will be looking for the next book.
The things i liked were the pace, the plot, as i said very interesting, there was a character named Akad who i was fascinated by, i liked him and the way he interact with others, specialy with his father.
The things i didn't like was that sometimes it felt too repetitive in some actions,sometimes it was like i was reading the same scene again and i didn't find any purpose in some of them, i disliked very much the MC Marduk mostly because i didn't believe in some of his emotion and some of his actions were too ambiguos.
Other thing i liked was the portray of how power and fear can make a person take decision otherwise wouldn't be done.
I think that the story have some potential and i can see a lot of people liking it, i recomend to read the Content Advisory on the blurb.
I want to be more specific on the things i didn't like but it will contain soilers.
July 8, 2015
[Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.]
In the land of the ancient gods, young gods and goddesses attend a college at the Temple of Power to learn more about their roles and their powers. Marduk is one such young god, who finds himself interested in another god--one of his classmates--on his first day of classes. This interest leads him down a dark path, however, as he finds himself lured into and claimed by a secret order of gods at the college who keep their newest member as a sex slave. Marduk knows the way out is to lure a new god to take his place, but he can't bring himself to do it. And when he finds himself falling for a new god to the school, Anu-Akad, the order gives him an ultimatum: deliver Akad to them or they will take him anyway and Marduk will remain their pet for eternity...
A wonderful convergence of several mythologies in one book. There's a rich world here that the author has created and the unique intersections are rather interesting. And the struggle that Marduk faces is portrayed quite vividly making it easy to understand how he was feeling as he tried to sort through his situation.
I will say that the content here is somewhat extreme and intense. More than one scene of non-con occurs and other forms of ongoing and repeated abuse. Normally, I'd honestly shy away from a book that's so heavy on that type of content, but the way it's handled and the overall story is so well done, that it didn't seem gratuitous to me. I do want to make the content warning quite clear, though.
In the land of the ancient gods, young gods and goddesses attend a college at the Temple of Power to learn more about their roles and their powers. Marduk is one such young god, who finds himself interested in another god--one of his classmates--on his first day of classes. This interest leads him down a dark path, however, as he finds himself lured into and claimed by a secret order of gods at the college who keep their newest member as a sex slave. Marduk knows the way out is to lure a new god to take his place, but he can't bring himself to do it. And when he finds himself falling for a new god to the school, Anu-Akad, the order gives him an ultimatum: deliver Akad to them or they will take him anyway and Marduk will remain their pet for eternity...
A wonderful convergence of several mythologies in one book. There's a rich world here that the author has created and the unique intersections are rather interesting. And the struggle that Marduk faces is portrayed quite vividly making it easy to understand how he was feeling as he tried to sort through his situation.
I will say that the content here is somewhat extreme and intense. More than one scene of non-con occurs and other forms of ongoing and repeated abuse. Normally, I'd honestly shy away from a book that's so heavy on that type of content, but the way it's handled and the overall story is so well done, that it didn't seem gratuitous to me. I do want to make the content warning quite clear, though.
February 17, 2016
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you J. Johanis for offering up your story.
Some years ago, I was used to read several books about Mythology, so I found this book interesting, and really enjoyed it. This story mixed Greek, Egyptian and Mesopotamian gods and goddesses in the same world at the same time. Some well-known gods (Isis, Seth, Zeus, Poseidon...) mingle with others imagined by the author.
We follow the adventures of young gods who make their learning to the Temple of Power (a place where precisely they lost all their powers).
The personality of the main characters (and a few secondary) is sometimes strange and hard to understand: Akad which seems rather shy and weighted will prove to be overbearing and even cruel in some circumstances, instead Marduk which seems at first confident and self-assured will quickly lose and let be himself dominate... But we are in the world of mythology and the gods have often curious and unsettling behavior.
Marduk one MC is going to be carried away by his passion for Aya and after the betrayal from his lover; he will be confronted in a dark Order led by the gods-teachers of the temple of power. The only way out for him, betray in turn another young god... But Marduk despite his weaknesses finally has a great strength of character and will play a trick on his way to his torturers...
Note: This book is not for everyone because it contains hard scenes with violence, rape and non-consent.
Some years ago, I was used to read several books about Mythology, so I found this book interesting, and really enjoyed it. This story mixed Greek, Egyptian and Mesopotamian gods and goddesses in the same world at the same time. Some well-known gods (Isis, Seth, Zeus, Poseidon...) mingle with others imagined by the author.
We follow the adventures of young gods who make their learning to the Temple of Power (a place where precisely they lost all their powers).
The personality of the main characters (and a few secondary) is sometimes strange and hard to understand: Akad which seems rather shy and weighted will prove to be overbearing and even cruel in some circumstances, instead Marduk which seems at first confident and self-assured will quickly lose and let be himself dominate... But we are in the world of mythology and the gods have often curious and unsettling behavior.
Marduk one MC is going to be carried away by his passion for Aya and after the betrayal from his lover; he will be confronted in a dark Order led by the gods-teachers of the temple of power. The only way out for him, betray in turn another young god... But Marduk despite his weaknesses finally has a great strength of character and will play a trick on his way to his torturers...
Note: This book is not for everyone because it contains hard scenes with violence, rape and non-consent.
January 3, 2016
Mythology, gods and goddesses - not always my choice of story. However, I enjoyed this one. I would actually go 3.75 stars. I volunteered to review this book for the author and it rang a lot of my favorite bells - dominance, (some) bearable torture, humiliation, non-con and dubious consent, even enslavement of a sort. The author has a good grasp of the mythological world she has built. If I have any question it is about the reason for the school at the Temple of Power, where all of the story takes place. Marduk is a young god attending classes at the Temple of Power and early on is betrayed by a fellow student and played into the hands of the Director of the school as well as the other instructors and disciples of the (secret) Order. Through the betrayal and abuse and enslavement as a toy for the gods Marduk eventually finds love with Akad, but Akad is son to a higher god than most of the Order and has been demeaned and humiliated and taught lessons on what is expected of a high ruling god. Akad is slower to act on their attraction but at each meeting he falls for Marduk. I like the way Johanis has segmented the book, each building to the final act. Good choice for me, will definitely continue series.
February 7, 2016
I received a copy of this ebook in exchange for an honest review.
This story follows Marduk, a young god off at college (a college for gods). He is quickly drawn into the Order, a secret group of gods who prey on young virgin gods and use them as sex slaves. While he struggles to plan an escape from the Order, he meets another young god and falls in love.
The first half of this book is pretty depressing, as Marduk sinks deeper into the hidden truths of the Order. Then he meets Anu-Akad and they form a secret affair. I loved the book from here, and I wish there was more of it. Although I did like the pacing of the book--I don't think I would have appreciated Marduk and Akad's relationship if it hadn't been for the horrors of the first half.
I liked the god/mythology aspect of the book (though I really can't comment about how accurate any of it is). It seemed kind of silly at first, but it grew on me and I ended up enjoying how the author was able to make the gods seem so human (like Akad's struggle to please his father).
If I read it correctly, it seems that book 2 will follow Aya (who wasn't a main character, but played a crucial role in this book). I'm looking forward to seeing how that will go, as well as finding out how Marduk and Akad fare.
This story follows Marduk, a young god off at college (a college for gods). He is quickly drawn into the Order, a secret group of gods who prey on young virgin gods and use them as sex slaves. While he struggles to plan an escape from the Order, he meets another young god and falls in love.
The first half of this book is pretty depressing, as Marduk sinks deeper into the hidden truths of the Order. Then he meets Anu-Akad and they form a secret affair. I loved the book from here, and I wish there was more of it. Although I did like the pacing of the book--I don't think I would have appreciated Marduk and Akad's relationship if it hadn't been for the horrors of the first half.
I liked the god/mythology aspect of the book (though I really can't comment about how accurate any of it is). It seemed kind of silly at first, but it grew on me and I ended up enjoying how the author was able to make the gods seem so human (like Akad's struggle to please his father).
If I read it correctly, it seems that book 2 will follow Aya (who wasn't a main character, but played a crucial role in this book). I'm looking forward to seeing how that will go, as well as finding out how Marduk and Akad fare.
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