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Gods and Slaves #2
Destiny
"Favor of the gods is given to those with passion."
Mateo has quickly learned that his fate is at the mercy of the gods and the frenzied crowd at the arena. Knowing that if he has any hope of gaining his freedom, it will be through the blood he sheds on the sands. That is his destiny... or is it? When his prowess in the arena catches the eye and desires of the very same god who not only spared his life before but also took his virginity, his destiny may very well change directions. Only one problem... humans and gods aren't supposed to let their emotions get entangled. Will such a forbidden act doom him... or free him?
WARNING: This novella series is not for sensitive eyes, as it is brutal, dark, raunchy, and in your face with its lewd, crude, and rude attitude. I'm talking no-holds-barred bloody battles and dirty, wet, messy sex with hot, animalistic men who have no inhibitions. They take what they want when they want it, and they don’t have to be nice about it. This series is intended for very mature readers who are looking for something out of this world to read.
Mateo has quickly learned that his fate is at the mercy of the gods and the frenzied crowd at the arena. Knowing that if he has any hope of gaining his freedom, it will be through the blood he sheds on the sands. That is his destiny... or is it? When his prowess in the arena catches the eye and desires of the very same god who not only spared his life before but also took his virginity, his destiny may very well change directions. Only one problem... humans and gods aren't supposed to let their emotions get entangled. Will such a forbidden act doom him... or free him?
WARNING: This novella series is not for sensitive eyes, as it is brutal, dark, raunchy, and in your face with its lewd, crude, and rude attitude. I'm talking no-holds-barred bloody battles and dirty, wet, messy sex with hot, animalistic men who have no inhibitions. They take what they want when they want it, and they don’t have to be nice about it. This series is intended for very mature readers who are looking for something out of this world to read.
96 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 21, 2018
89 people are currently reading
156 people want to read
About the author
Nicholas Bella
94 books1,079 followersAbout The Maniac Who Wrote These Books
I'm the author of deliciously dark, sexy, and thrilling MM fiction in various genres. I corrupt readers with salacious tales of possessive men staking their claims on the men who make their blood rise in certain places. I know... I should be ashamed, but I'm shameless. I'm a public menace that can't be stopped, and my characters are rude, sassy, charming, arrogant, and hotter than sinners in hell. They tell me what they want and I follow orders. When I'm not hunched over my keyboard typing away, I love to watch movies and TV shows (You should check out my reviews.)
Find Your Next Obsession from my literary offerings on my website.
Join my VIPs if you're the type who enjoys spoiling yourself with exclusive content and rewards.
I love interacting with my readers, so hit me up and follow me on my Social Media.
I'm the author of deliciously dark, sexy, and thrilling MM fiction in various genres. I corrupt readers with salacious tales of possessive men staking their claims on the men who make their blood rise in certain places. I know... I should be ashamed, but I'm shameless. I'm a public menace that can't be stopped, and my characters are rude, sassy, charming, arrogant, and hotter than sinners in hell. They tell me what they want and I follow orders. When I'm not hunched over my keyboard typing away, I love to watch movies and TV shows (You should check out my reviews.)
Find Your Next Obsession from my literary offerings on my website.
Join my VIPs if you're the type who enjoys spoiling yourself with exclusive content and rewards.
I love interacting with my readers, so hit me up and follow me on my Social Media.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
July 27, 2018
My God! Just can’t get enough! 😱 I’ll be counting the days for the final book to come out! Please let it be this year. 🙏 We see more of Eloy and his PoV in this book. It was really interesting to see the budding love and relationship between a god and a human. I’m very intrigued about how this story will unfold in the end since I can’t work out the endgame now. And yes, the smut was steaming! 🔥 Loved it. 😍
4.5 even an immortal can fall in love with a mortal stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
4.5 even an immortal can fall in love with a mortal stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
June 24, 2019
⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱*Where's The Depth?*⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱
Ummm, how do these two characters care so much for each other? They've barely been in each others presence and shared a bed three times.... and there's talk of love? Just like that? What? It's like I'm missing something here. I like that Mateo< (19) for once acted more human and smart and not just a mindless slave. I like that we got to see another side of Eloy (over 200 in his human body). BUT not that fast. It was like a switch was turned on when it comes to Eloy and his development. Like he went from being selfish and egoistic, to speaking of love. Where was the middle part? It's like a huge chunk was taken from this book. I excepted some slow-burn love here and not insta-love. The book really lacked depth, for sure. I'm glad next book is the last in the series.
Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (Adult) Dystopian
Series: - Series, Book Two.
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Favorite character? - None.
Would I read more by this author/or of series? - Unsure.
Would I recommend this book/series? - Unsure, but if you like dark themes it might be for you.
Will I read this again in the future? - No.
Rating - 2 stars.
October 7, 2018
This book was way better than the first one. It wasn't dark and it was more about Mateo's struggle to become a gladiator.
I don't know how to explain it but even if I didn't like the first book, I really wanted to read this one. To find out more about the god Eloy and how Mateo will win his freedom. Well his path was filled with blood and fights and we get a lot of action and also super HOT scenes.
Can't wait for the next book!!!
I don't know how to explain it but even if I didn't like the first book, I really wanted to read this one. To find out more about the god Eloy and how Mateo will win his freedom. Well his path was filled with blood and fights and we get a lot of action and also super HOT scenes.
Can't wait for the next book!!!
July 24, 2018
This book is even better than the first in my opinion. Yes, Mateo lived and thrived among other gladiators. He is smart and cunning, he uses everything at his disposal to move up and survive. But what to do when you have a God obsessed over you. Enter Eloy, the god of fire. He is spoiled, arrogant and bad-tempered. But in the course of the book he starts changing for the better and it's all due to Mateo and how he sees the world these Gods created. Eloy's eyes are opened and he knows it's time for change.
This book offers a glimpse into the world of rich and powerful and the Gods themselves. Some secrets are revealed that frankly make me want to read the next book (that's hopefully coming SOON) pronto. There is promise of love and devotion between a god and a mortal. But all is not so simple. It seems that the gods are ready to be vicious again. It's hot and steamy even tender at times. I loved this book! I highly recommend it!
This book offers a glimpse into the world of rich and powerful and the Gods themselves. Some secrets are revealed that frankly make me want to read the next book (that's hopefully coming SOON) pronto. There is promise of love and devotion between a god and a mortal. But all is not so simple. It seems that the gods are ready to be vicious again. It's hot and steamy even tender at times. I loved this book! I highly recommend it!
December 12, 2022
Story 5/5
Narration 5/5
Narration 5/5
Read
August 4, 2018No rating at this time.
I think as of right now I'm going to pass on this one. Not to offend the author but this type of genre not my cup of tea. I might revisit this at a later date but we'll see.
I think as of right now I'm going to pass on this one. Not to offend the author but this type of genre not my cup of tea. I might revisit this at a later date but we'll see.
December 18, 2019
This second section of this book brought me closer to the main characters. I’m now hoping that Mateo and the god Elroy can find there happy ending.
August 23, 2018
As good as the first one. The romance came a little out of left field but yay romance! Can't wait for the final book.
July 29, 2018
Oh My Gods!!!
Once again Nicholas has written a page turner and proved that he's a great story teller his characters whether you hate of love them will keep you interested...I can't wait to see how th ok series ends.
Once again Nicholas has written a page turner and proved that he's a great story teller his characters whether you hate of love them will keep you interested...I can't wait to see how th ok series ends.
August 2, 2018
3.5 Stars out of 5
Okay, I take it back, this isn't so bad. All throughout the first book, I was looking for a reason to like this story and I finally found it, here in the second book, in the most unexpected of places, in Eloy's humanity.
The beginning of the book is more of the same from book one but I somehow found myself being more sympathetic of Mateo's plight and somehow I had the dawning realization that he is after all just nineteen years old, so he should be forgiven for some of his immaturity.
This book is worded in such a way that I found myself accepting the words and the story they told instead of continuously doubting their veracity at every step. This might have been because I already had insight into how this world worked.
“Destiny” builds up on the foundation laid down by “Dominion” and instead of offering a world view, it builds on the ground we have already established so it's easier to accept and I was less nitpicky about the world-building aspects of it.
While the book was slowly but surely making a dent in my hardened heart I reached the halfway mark in this book where the first scene shared by Eloy and Mateo takes place and that entire scene made this series, this story make sense to me. It was finally all worth it because that single scene seeing Eloy doubt himself and acting out in such human ways struck the first chord of resonance with me. Here was something that I could finally relate to. From that point on, I really came to appreciate Eloy and his humanity, his story, his love for a human whose death shatters his soul is something immensely relatable and his inability to stop himself from loving again, so human and in that strain I found the resonance I was looking for.
I still have problems with Mateo's character but the relationship that forges between Eloy and Mateo helps both characters grow in ways that made it easier to understand and like them. Though I still think that Mateo is way too clinical about his relationship with Titus.
In the beginning of the book we see how much Titus has grown on Mateo, how much Mateo appreciates him but at the same time Mateo doesn't love him because he knows his relationship with Titus is but a transaction which becomes more and more obvious when Titus seems to be offended if Mateo is not in the mood for sex and mostly blackmails him so that he can't refuse which is an abhorrent trait in any relationship but I find it quite convenient that the author only focuses on these moments between Titus and Mateo. What about the good ones, what about the times they both want sex, the book stays conveniently mum on the topic like the author doesn't want to contend with the possibility that Titus & Mateo might rival Eloy & Mateo on any level. Though of course every time Eloy wants sex Mateo has never not been in the mood for it.
My problem with this particular take on Titus and Mateo’s relationship is that Mateo's viewpoint on his entire relationship with Titus is a viewpoint of a third party not of one very much involved in the relationship. His POV is very objective, I don't like Titus because I can't refuse him sex even if I am not in the mood for it. I just feel considering everything, how Titus is the first person to give him sexual pleasure and how much he helps him and how much Mateo benefits from his companionship, Mateo should be in love with Titus no matter how unhealthy that love but instead in the series it is not even a possibility. It's probably easier to establish Eloy and Mateo’s relationship without any rivalry from Titus and Mateo but I feel that Eloy and Mateo’s relationship could have taken that strain and been even more beautiful for it and considering how this book ends, developing both relationships would have made the story even bigger.
All in all, all things considered, this is a class above Dominion and I loved the plotting of the gods and I love where this story is going and in a complete reversal from what I said at the end of my review of the first book, I can't wait to find out what happens next.
Also, can I just say that Hersi is my favourite god and I am coming to love him a lot, especially considering it is his loopholes that are making this story so interesting. He is the god I want to meet and I hope we get to, though it seems unlikely.
Okay, I take it back, this isn't so bad. All throughout the first book, I was looking for a reason to like this story and I finally found it, here in the second book, in the most unexpected of places, in Eloy's humanity.
The beginning of the book is more of the same from book one but I somehow found myself being more sympathetic of Mateo's plight and somehow I had the dawning realization that he is after all just nineteen years old, so he should be forgiven for some of his immaturity.
This book is worded in such a way that I found myself accepting the words and the story they told instead of continuously doubting their veracity at every step. This might have been because I already had insight into how this world worked.
“Destiny” builds up on the foundation laid down by “Dominion” and instead of offering a world view, it builds on the ground we have already established so it's easier to accept and I was less nitpicky about the world-building aspects of it.
While the book was slowly but surely making a dent in my hardened heart I reached the halfway mark in this book where the first scene shared by Eloy and Mateo takes place and that entire scene made this series, this story make sense to me. It was finally all worth it because that single scene seeing Eloy doubt himself and acting out in such human ways struck the first chord of resonance with me. Here was something that I could finally relate to. From that point on, I really came to appreciate Eloy and his humanity, his story, his love for a human whose death shatters his soul is something immensely relatable and his inability to stop himself from loving again, so human and in that strain I found the resonance I was looking for.
I still have problems with Mateo's character but the relationship that forges between Eloy and Mateo helps both characters grow in ways that made it easier to understand and like them. Though I still think that Mateo is way too clinical about his relationship with Titus.
In the beginning of the book we see how much Titus has grown on Mateo, how much Mateo appreciates him but at the same time Mateo doesn't love him because he knows his relationship with Titus is but a transaction which becomes more and more obvious when Titus seems to be offended if Mateo is not in the mood for sex and mostly blackmails him so that he can't refuse which is an abhorrent trait in any relationship but I find it quite convenient that the author only focuses on these moments between Titus and Mateo. What about the good ones, what about the times they both want sex, the book stays conveniently mum on the topic like the author doesn't want to contend with the possibility that Titus & Mateo might rival Eloy & Mateo on any level. Though of course every time Eloy wants sex Mateo has never not been in the mood for it.
My problem with this particular take on Titus and Mateo’s relationship is that Mateo's viewpoint on his entire relationship with Titus is a viewpoint of a third party not of one very much involved in the relationship. His POV is very objective, I don't like Titus because I can't refuse him sex even if I am not in the mood for it. I just feel considering everything, how Titus is the first person to give him sexual pleasure and how much he helps him and how much Mateo benefits from his companionship, Mateo should be in love with Titus no matter how unhealthy that love but instead in the series it is not even a possibility. It's probably easier to establish Eloy and Mateo’s relationship without any rivalry from Titus and Mateo but I feel that Eloy and Mateo’s relationship could have taken that strain and been even more beautiful for it and considering how this book ends, developing both relationships would have made the story even bigger.
All in all, all things considered, this is a class above Dominion and I loved the plotting of the gods and I love where this story is going and in a complete reversal from what I said at the end of my review of the first book, I can't wait to find out what happens next.
Also, can I just say that Hersi is my favourite god and I am coming to love him a lot, especially considering it is his loopholes that are making this story so interesting. He is the god I want to meet and I hope we get to, though it seems unlikely.
July 28, 2018
Oh crap things are about to get interesting in the world of God's and gladiators. The sex is panty melting hot, and blood and jealousy abound.
As you know if you've read book 1, and if you haven't STOP RIGHT NOW, go grab it, the God Eloy spared Mateo the first time he saw him in the arena and took his virginity. Now he is falling for Mateo and the God Kijani, Eloy's sometimes lover, isn't happy about it. He's jealous of the attachment Eloy is showing the human slave. The Dominus Rama is thrilled the God Eloy is interested in Mateo, it means his ludus may be rising in the ranks toward Elite status. Mateo wants to be with Eloy, even as just a sex toy to the God as it will get him out of the gladiators and into more freedom and safety.
Nicholas has created another amazing and sex filled world for us mere mortals to enjoy and enjoy I do. My only complaint is these steamy books always seem to end to soon, or I just devour them to quickly. This series is so amazing once I started this book I couldn't put it down.
I can't wait to see what comes in the next book. I give this book 5 panty melting stars and wish I could give it more. Definitely not recommend for anyone under 18 due to the graphic sex.
Independent reviewer for Romance Authors That Rock.
As you know if you've read book 1, and if you haven't STOP RIGHT NOW, go grab it, the God Eloy spared Mateo the first time he saw him in the arena and took his virginity. Now he is falling for Mateo and the God Kijani, Eloy's sometimes lover, isn't happy about it. He's jealous of the attachment Eloy is showing the human slave. The Dominus Rama is thrilled the God Eloy is interested in Mateo, it means his ludus may be rising in the ranks toward Elite status. Mateo wants to be with Eloy, even as just a sex toy to the God as it will get him out of the gladiators and into more freedom and safety.
Nicholas has created another amazing and sex filled world for us mere mortals to enjoy and enjoy I do. My only complaint is these steamy books always seem to end to soon, or I just devour them to quickly. This series is so amazing once I started this book I couldn't put it down.
I can't wait to see what comes in the next book. I give this book 5 panty melting stars and wish I could give it more. Definitely not recommend for anyone under 18 due to the graphic sex.
Independent reviewer for Romance Authors That Rock.
August 1, 2018
Whatever series Mr. Bella is writing is own style shines brightly, such a talented writer and creator.
God of Slaves a world of gods and "Elite Humans" among the not so elite human slaves.
We met Mateo and the god of Fire Eloy in the first book, the second is a continued progression. An insight on what at first I thought was naivety on Mateo's part. Don't get me wrong I adore him, but in the world, he now lives in is his lot in life; or is it?
the God of Fire can play with humans, nothing more should ever become of it. So it is said, so it will be. Maybe. Eloy just can't seem to get the human out of his head and if he's not careful he will cross the 'forbidden' line. In the rare occasion the god has let the gladiator speak his peace and in doing so stirred the gods' temper and his thoughts.
It's not a standalone you really need to read the first one to get all the amazing effects of this storyline. So much passion and heat its off the charts, but more than that both god and human reflect on the what ifs and what can be's.
An awesome world and characters created that flow well and full of personality. Just the right length to give you a well-read story. Now we wait for book three. Enjoy
God of Slaves a world of gods and "Elite Humans" among the not so elite human slaves.
We met Mateo and the god of Fire Eloy in the first book, the second is a continued progression. An insight on what at first I thought was naivety on Mateo's part. Don't get me wrong I adore him, but in the world, he now lives in is his lot in life; or is it?
the God of Fire can play with humans, nothing more should ever become of it. So it is said, so it will be. Maybe. Eloy just can't seem to get the human out of his head and if he's not careful he will cross the 'forbidden' line. In the rare occasion the god has let the gladiator speak his peace and in doing so stirred the gods' temper and his thoughts.
It's not a standalone you really need to read the first one to get all the amazing effects of this storyline. So much passion and heat its off the charts, but more than that both god and human reflect on the what ifs and what can be's.
An awesome world and characters created that flow well and full of personality. Just the right length to give you a well-read story. Now we wait for book three. Enjoy
August 27, 2018
Destiny: Book Two (The Gods and Slaves Series...
The book was absolutely wonderful, I didn't want it to end. This was so exciting, so much drama, a wonderful love story, parts were sad and some are going to make you keep turning those pages. So many thanks, loved this series, Honey Bee 🐝📚💙🎶 PS: This Author really knows how to entertain His Fans, He's great!💙💖🎶
The book was absolutely wonderful, I didn't want it to end. This was so exciting, so much drama, a wonderful love story, parts were sad and some are going to make you keep turning those pages. So many thanks, loved this series, Honey Bee 🐝📚💙🎶 PS: This Author really knows how to entertain His Fans, He's great!💙💖🎶
July 28, 2018
Glad I gave this another chance.
I'm glad I didn't let the first book turn me away from this series. I loved this book! I cheered and cried. I cried for Mateo and Eloy. You're probably wondering why I only gave this book 3 stars if I loved it so much, and I will tell you. Whoever formatted this book did a horrible job! It was so broken up and a pages were missing. I would hope the author checks the book before releasing it. Hopefully the next one will be better.
I'm glad I didn't let the first book turn me away from this series. I loved this book! I cheered and cried. I cried for Mateo and Eloy. You're probably wondering why I only gave this book 3 stars if I loved it so much, and I will tell you. Whoever formatted this book did a horrible job! It was so broken up and a pages were missing. I would hope the author checks the book before releasing it. Hopefully the next one will be better.
July 26, 2018
Finding love
This was such a passionate and full of life storyline. Mateo is given the opportunity to speak his truths about everything making god Eloy fall further in to a situation he can not resist. Nicholas Bella continues to build an awesome storyline that no one can duplicate. Awesomeness. ⚘⚘⚘⚘
This was such a passionate and full of life storyline. Mateo is given the opportunity to speak his truths about everything making god Eloy fall further in to a situation he can not resist. Nicholas Bella continues to build an awesome storyline that no one can duplicate. Awesomeness. ⚘⚘⚘⚘
August 1, 2018
Destiny
Nooooooooo......it was such a long wait and it was over too quickly! I need more! Oh these jealous gods arehorrible! Poor Eloy, when he finds out he's gonna be madder than a wet hen lol.
Nooooooooo......it was such a long wait and it was over too quickly! I need more! Oh these jealous gods arehorrible! Poor Eloy, when he finds out he's gonna be madder than a wet hen lol.
August 10, 2018
Gods and slaves
Bella continues to amaze with the saga of Matao. The subtle shift of why he fights for survival snuck up on me before I knew it.
The hint of what is to come has me itching for the next sleepless page turning night.
Bella continues to amaze with the saga of Matao. The subtle shift of why he fights for survival snuck up on me before I knew it.
The hint of what is to come has me itching for the next sleepless page turning night.
August 13, 2018
Hmmmm let me think
This is way better than the first one. I hope Eloy will be able to discard his divinity and be human. I wish Odessa and kiji something die. I think they are the reason why Eloy love died because they killed him.
This is way better than the first one. I hope Eloy will be able to discard his divinity and be human. I wish Odessa and kiji something die. I think they are the reason why Eloy love died because they killed him.
July 22, 2018
Great read !!!!!!
Well I loved the first book, and this one is even better! Now its going to kill me to wait for the last one. Plz keep writing these great books thank you .
Well I loved the first book, and this one is even better! Now its going to kill me to wait for the last one. Plz keep writing these great books thank you .
August 3, 2018
More
Give me more! I didn't think I would like this series, but I do! Can't wait to read what comes next!
Give me more! I didn't think I would like this series, but I do! Can't wait to read what comes next!
January 16, 2019
Better and more original than the previous volume... but it's too much a ripoff of Spartacus to enjoy it too much.
January 9, 2023
(Whole series review.) This series is hit and miss. I don't regret reading it, but it didn't turn out to be as great as I had initially expected. Overall, I like the concept and most of the world building, but there are some serious problems that require star deductions. Getting into that...
The absolute most egregious thing for which I am deducting two whole stars: Eloy never apologizes to Mateo for raping him the first time they meet, nor does he talk about it with Mateo in any significant manner. Now, don't get me wrong, I don't require such things when the story fits the action (or lack of, in this case). The rapist is a total dickbag that doesn't care about what he did because he never loves or cares about anyone ever? Okay, sure, no apology, no remorse, you get no complaint from me. But! That's not what happened in this series. Eloy fell deeply in love with Mateo. Like deeeeeep in love. He had a single paragraph (lol) of internal reflection where he felt shame, but he never voices it directly. Mateo and Eloy skirt around the topic when Mateo calls him out on his violence, but Eloy brushes it off, mostly. It was real-deal rape, doing serious physical and psychological damage to Mateo. So, nope, fuck you book. You don't get to sweep MC/MC rape under the rug and then have the MCs just be fine with it when they are supposed to be madly in love and devoted to each other. Nope nope nope. Minus 2 stars. Yep, two. It would have been three if not for that single paragraph of Eloy's internal remorse.
Next thing... this series should have been WAY longer. It's only around 300 pages total. That's just a single novel, and not even a particularly long one. I don't understand the reason for separating it into 3 books. Regardless, while it doesn't feel incredibly rushed (surprisingly), the short length combined with the extensive scenes/periods that are covered results in a shallow feeling to the world. It's not bad writing, it's just there literally aren't enough words on the pages to make it feel substantive. The concept was cool, I think, as was the world building. But then the books shit the bed a bit by just glossing through stuff at a high level. This also had the side effect of making most of the plot predictable.
There was so much room for more depth... For example, how about adding in some scenes involving Hersi and the other gods? I'd like to know what Hersi thinks of all this shit, especially Kijani because that fuck didn't suffer enough. A decent amount of the story revolved around Hersi trying to make the world a better place through the gods, but who fucking knows what he actually thinks because [who the fuck knows?]. Maybe insert some scenes where the gods express true remorse for the things they've done (e.g. Eloy for throwing a servant into a lion pit to be mauled to death just because that servant didn't get Eloy off well enough...). Or, another idea, have some time leap to Mateo and Eloy later in life, Eloy accepting his aging and mortality, enjoying how positively they have changed the world over several decades and appreciating that earthly life with Mateo. I'd even love to see Mateo and Eloy die and go to the afterlife/heaven together. Will Eloy and Mateo be together for eternity then? Maybe Mateo dies too soon for one reason or another, and Eloy decides to return to heaven (i.e. kill himself) to be with him, really demonstrating how much he loves him. It's one thing to give up the idea of immortality, but quite another to actually die. Let's see what that's like. Seriously, so, so, so many fucking ideas that should have been explored in another 300 pages to this series. Minus 1 star for lack of depth.
Another thing... the whole modern technology in ancient Roman culture thing was a bit weird. It's not crazy or prohibitive to reading the books, but it can snap one out of the immersion at certain points.
Finally, these books rip off Spartacus (TV series) so, so much. There are so many situations that could have been taken from the show almost verbatim. It's not to the level of plagiarizism, but it's not very original for those that have watched the TV series. That said, I happen to really enjoy Spartacus and thus this (a gay version of it with gods) was an enjoyable world.
This is an alright series for a quick read. It includes some rape and violence, but it is NOT overly dark. I would say it's "dark-ish", and that's really only book 1 in certain places. The other two books are very mild. If you can watch Spartacus, you can read this.
It was a great idea, but the execution fell flat, sadly.
The absolute most egregious thing for which I am deducting two whole stars: Eloy never apologizes to Mateo for raping him the first time they meet, nor does he talk about it with Mateo in any significant manner. Now, don't get me wrong, I don't require such things when the story fits the action (or lack of, in this case). The rapist is a total dickbag that doesn't care about what he did because he never loves or cares about anyone ever? Okay, sure, no apology, no remorse, you get no complaint from me. But! That's not what happened in this series. Eloy fell deeply in love with Mateo. Like deeeeeep in love. He had a single paragraph (lol) of internal reflection where he felt shame, but he never voices it directly. Mateo and Eloy skirt around the topic when Mateo calls him out on his violence, but Eloy brushes it off, mostly. It was real-deal rape, doing serious physical and psychological damage to Mateo. So, nope, fuck you book. You don't get to sweep MC/MC rape under the rug and then have the MCs just be fine with it when they are supposed to be madly in love and devoted to each other. Nope nope nope. Minus 2 stars. Yep, two. It would have been three if not for that single paragraph of Eloy's internal remorse.
Next thing... this series should have been WAY longer. It's only around 300 pages total. That's just a single novel, and not even a particularly long one. I don't understand the reason for separating it into 3 books. Regardless, while it doesn't feel incredibly rushed (surprisingly), the short length combined with the extensive scenes/periods that are covered results in a shallow feeling to the world. It's not bad writing, it's just there literally aren't enough words on the pages to make it feel substantive. The concept was cool, I think, as was the world building. But then the books shit the bed a bit by just glossing through stuff at a high level. This also had the side effect of making most of the plot predictable.
There was so much room for more depth... For example, how about adding in some scenes involving Hersi and the other gods? I'd like to know what Hersi thinks of all this shit, especially Kijani because that fuck didn't suffer enough. A decent amount of the story revolved around Hersi trying to make the world a better place through the gods, but who fucking knows what he actually thinks because [who the fuck knows?]. Maybe insert some scenes where the gods express true remorse for the things they've done (e.g. Eloy for throwing a servant into a lion pit to be mauled to death just because that servant didn't get Eloy off well enough...). Or, another idea, have some time leap to Mateo and Eloy later in life, Eloy accepting his aging and mortality, enjoying how positively they have changed the world over several decades and appreciating that earthly life with Mateo. I'd even love to see Mateo and Eloy die and go to the afterlife/heaven together. Will Eloy and Mateo be together for eternity then? Maybe Mateo dies too soon for one reason or another, and Eloy decides to return to heaven (i.e. kill himself) to be with him, really demonstrating how much he loves him. It's one thing to give up the idea of immortality, but quite another to actually die. Let's see what that's like. Seriously, so, so, so many fucking ideas that should have been explored in another 300 pages to this series. Minus 1 star for lack of depth.
Another thing... the whole modern technology in ancient Roman culture thing was a bit weird. It's not crazy or prohibitive to reading the books, but it can snap one out of the immersion at certain points.
Finally, these books rip off Spartacus (TV series) so, so much. There are so many situations that could have been taken from the show almost verbatim. It's not to the level of plagiarizism, but it's not very original for those that have watched the TV series. That said, I happen to really enjoy Spartacus and thus this (a gay version of it with gods) was an enjoyable world.
This is an alright series for a quick read. It includes some rape and violence, but it is NOT overly dark. I would say it's "dark-ish", and that's really only book 1 in certain places. The other two books are very mild. If you can watch Spartacus, you can read this.
It was a great idea, but the execution fell flat, sadly.
June 22, 2019
The book warns about gore and dark themes. There are basically none. Yes, the system is terrible, you know, slavery, MC being a slave but it's portrayed in such a way it does not feel like that. It mostly just feels like romance. That should be "darker", considering the theme but I have read much darker books. This was was tame in comparison. I only like, "skipped" a scene or two but then? I sometimes skip the description of food when it's meat-centred =D =D, because I am vegetarian and I mentally cringe when meat is described positively. Though I do know I have some weird pseudo-triggers =D.
This was also short.
And it was also dirty. Really dirty. Really enjoyed using the fact gladiators were a bunch of guys in peak physical condition wearing, usually, very little =D.
The world was also "unique" or just weird. It was, I guess, really, really postapocalyptic - way later after we had plumbing and planes but the society was simple so it felt weird when they used words like limousine or plane.
Other than then? Dunno. Some unlikely change of character and really obvious "villain".
Also, I have not read the first book and I am actually glad. Their first meeting did not seem consensual so I am glad I skipped.
P.S: It may have wanted to be a forbidden romance, like, naturally the biggest difference would be between slave and a god but it felt about as forbidden as a workplace romance with no rules against it. They could meet and no one batted an eyelash, no secret meetings, he could just summon him whenever.
P.P.S: Slavery in ancient Rome was, as far as I am aware, pretty cool. It was just a form of servitude, Rome had what this system did not - space for an individual to earn his place with work. For example, one caesar started as a slave!
This was also short.
And it was also dirty. Really dirty. Really enjoyed using the fact gladiators were a bunch of guys in peak physical condition wearing, usually, very little =D.
The world was also "unique" or just weird. It was, I guess, really, really postapocalyptic - way later after we had plumbing and planes but the society was simple so it felt weird when they used words like limousine or plane.
Other than then? Dunno. Some unlikely change of character and really obvious "villain".
Also, I have not read the first book and I am actually glad. Their first meeting did not seem consensual so I am glad I skipped.
P.S: It may have wanted to be a forbidden romance, like, naturally the biggest difference would be between slave and a god but it felt about as forbidden as a workplace romance with no rules against it. They could meet and no one batted an eyelash, no secret meetings, he could just summon him whenever.
P.P.S: Slavery in ancient Rome was, as far as I am aware, pretty cool. It was just a form of servitude, Rome had what this system did not - space for an individual to earn his place with work. For example, one caesar started as a slave!
December 31, 2020
- Dominion [🌟🌟🌟🌟]
- Destiny [🌟🌟🌟🌟]
- Deliverance [🌟🌟🌟]
.
TW - Lots and lots of brutal death, slavery, abuse and dark romance
.
This series started off really good. The concept of Gods being the ruling party and everyone fighting to get gheir blessing to live a happy and wealthy life was kinda interesting. The themes discussed were dark, the situations described were brutal and it gave a contrast difference to the privileged and slaves. The first book was really good with the discussion of slavery, how they were treated in that world, and how they need to survive. We also get a back story as to how the current world happens to exist. Now the second book deals more with the conflicting emotions the gods and the slaves had. It gives us the hope to expect change and discussed the stark differences in their status while still being dark. The third book is where it gets really wrapped up with the decisions being made, and the emotions that came into play for the Characters introduced. I expected it to be dark themed, but it toned it down way lower and it gets a different perspective. It wasn't what I was expecting at all and I might have been a tad bit disappointed in how that ended. It's still a great ending, just not what I was expecting.
- Destiny [🌟🌟🌟🌟]
- Deliverance [🌟🌟🌟]
.
TW - Lots and lots of brutal death, slavery, abuse and dark romance
.
This series started off really good. The concept of Gods being the ruling party and everyone fighting to get gheir blessing to live a happy and wealthy life was kinda interesting. The themes discussed were dark, the situations described were brutal and it gave a contrast difference to the privileged and slaves. The first book was really good with the discussion of slavery, how they were treated in that world, and how they need to survive. We also get a back story as to how the current world happens to exist. Now the second book deals more with the conflicting emotions the gods and the slaves had. It gives us the hope to expect change and discussed the stark differences in their status while still being dark. The third book is where it gets really wrapped up with the decisions being made, and the emotions that came into play for the Characters introduced. I expected it to be dark themed, but it toned it down way lower and it gets a different perspective. It wasn't what I was expecting at all and I might have been a tad bit disappointed in how that ended. It's still a great ending, just not what I was expecting.
July 3, 2024
After being spared by the Fire God, Eloy, enslaved gladiator Mateo has triumphed in his first fight-to-the-death. After months of training and sleeping with the gladiator champion, Titus, Mateo achieves gladiator status and faces his first competition in front of the Gods in the arena. Eloy is once again captivated by Mateo and this time their night together is more romantic and a lot less brutal. But Eloy knows he is tempting fate with his feelings for Mateo—the other gods won’t allow him a relationship with a human for fear of the Life God, Hersi’s, mysterious curse.
This enjoyable second Gods and Slaves book had a lot more romance than the first book, but no less action or heat. It’s pretty much instalove, but it sort of works in this supernatural setting. I liked this a lot. As Mateo gains more experience and maturity, he becomes less naive and more wise, whereas Eloy appears to be taking more and more risks for Mateo. Being the second of three, there’s no HEA or even a HFN ending, but also no annoying cliffhanger—we just know everything will come to a head in the last book. Can’t wait! 🎧 Voice actor Matt Williams does a great job of the various accents and voices in this series.
This enjoyable second Gods and Slaves book had a lot more romance than the first book, but no less action or heat. It’s pretty much instalove, but it sort of works in this supernatural setting. I liked this a lot. As Mateo gains more experience and maturity, he becomes less naive and more wise, whereas Eloy appears to be taking more and more risks for Mateo. Being the second of three, there’s no HEA or even a HFN ending, but also no annoying cliffhanger—we just know everything will come to a head in the last book. Can’t wait! 🎧 Voice actor Matt Williams does a great job of the various accents and voices in this series.
November 1, 2020
Original review: https://myshelfbooks.wordpress.com/20...
Paranormal Romance: The first book was a nice surprise, even though it was filled with brutality or maybe thanks to that… I don’t know. I can only say it was something unexpected that I liked and enjoyed. This second book of the trilogy is much more vanilla. It is a more mainstream approach to a Paranormal Romance novel set in a dystopian world. Its pace is quite fast and the pages flow easily, so getting bored is not an option. This time we even have a love development between Mateo and Eloy that looked like something far-feteched after finishing the first book. Their relationship is weird, but somehow enjoyable.
Weak: As I have mentioned, in this second story there is barely anykind of suffering for Mateo. Am I a bad person for looking forward to it? I mean, I kind of liked those dark scenes from the first book. In comparison, Destiny is way lighter. I feel that with that change, part of what makes the first book so special is missing. Next time maybe?
Paranormal Romance: The first book was a nice surprise, even though it was filled with brutality or maybe thanks to that… I don’t know. I can only say it was something unexpected that I liked and enjoyed. This second book of the trilogy is much more vanilla. It is a more mainstream approach to a Paranormal Romance novel set in a dystopian world. Its pace is quite fast and the pages flow easily, so getting bored is not an option. This time we even have a love development between Mateo and Eloy that looked like something far-feteched after finishing the first book. Their relationship is weird, but somehow enjoyable.
Weak: As I have mentioned, in this second story there is barely anykind of suffering for Mateo. Am I a bad person for looking forward to it? I mean, I kind of liked those dark scenes from the first book. In comparison, Destiny is way lighter. I feel that with that change, part of what makes the first book so special is missing. Next time maybe?
July 26, 2024
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October 5, 2024
And suddenly it is Romance?
For the first book I said it is not and instead rather brutal, but now it turned and focused more on the relationships (sex) between the characters. There was a lot of sex, between the gods so that the world shakes, sex for pleasure, for affection and to make the gladiators stronger. Sexual gratification to the gladiators is what spinach to Popeye.
There is a lot of public sex in this book, which was really odd.
My biggest problem was the love, it was not believable. I could see romantic relationships in this, but not between him and Eloy. Since the romance was not believable to be, and it was the main focus of the story, this was a meh for me.
For the first book I said it is not and instead rather brutal, but now it turned and focused more on the relationships (sex) between the characters. There was a lot of sex, between the gods so that the world shakes, sex for pleasure, for affection and to make the gladiators stronger. Sexual gratification to the gladiators is what spinach to Popeye.
There is a lot of public sex in this book, which was really odd.
My biggest problem was the love, it was not believable. I could see romantic relationships in this, but not between him and Eloy. Since the romance was not believable to be, and it was the main focus of the story, this was a meh for me.
November 2, 2019
A couple of gods definitely have to die
Odessa and Kajini will deserve everything that I hope comes to them for their selfishness and perfidy. It is interesting that the gods had two main issues with human society - one, that the had become greedy, selfish, and decadent; two - that those traits caused harm to the planet, environment, and fauna. But when they took over, they fostered the first set of sins whilst putting draconian limits to curtail the second. And yet, somehow, the cruelty they've imposed absolves them off any blame.
Odessa and Kajini will deserve everything that I hope comes to them for their selfishness and perfidy. It is interesting that the gods had two main issues with human society - one, that the had become greedy, selfish, and decadent; two - that those traits caused harm to the planet, environment, and fauna. But when they took over, they fostered the first set of sins whilst putting draconian limits to curtail the second. And yet, somehow, the cruelty they've imposed absolves them off any blame.
February 27, 2024
Yes God Elroy!
Give it to me till it hurts. I'm writing this review after finishing the whole series and damn did book 2 not disappoint. I'm all over the place with emotions.
But be prepared for some spice that includes more than mild noncon. That is your warning. If you have any triggers And dark romances are not in your wheelhouse then skip this series stop now you will not like where it's going. But if you like a strong MM story line that never beLittles the characters and only builds them up making masculinity the bedrock of their characters then enjoy.
Give it to me till it hurts. I'm writing this review after finishing the whole series and damn did book 2 not disappoint. I'm all over the place with emotions.
But be prepared for some spice that includes more than mild noncon. That is your warning. If you have any triggers And dark romances are not in your wheelhouse then skip this series stop now you will not like where it's going. But if you like a strong MM story line that never beLittles the characters and only builds them up making masculinity the bedrock of their characters then enjoy.
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