What do you think?
Rate this book
The Elysian Chronicles #1
Garden of Eden
Micah Vehyl considers himself an “opportunist.” Living in the underground city of Tartarus, he’s not misguided by the ideals of the esteemed and noble government, nor by the promise of rehoming and freedom on the surface. In a world where homosexuality is considered punishable by death, and only the rich and healthy are able to see the light of day, Micah has made a living for himself - among his older brother’s band of criminals and assassins. Armed with a complex power he barely understands, Micah lives only for himself, removed from the fight of the so-called Resistance movement and the impending war against President Axel Tovar and the esteemed and noble government.
But a chance and erotic encounter with a deeply enigmatic Eden Voss awakens a passion within Micah...one that he thought to have vanished for good. A dangerous passion: one that could just get him killed.
Meanwhile, Eden Voss has secrets of his own: An officer in the Elysian Police Force, Eden risks more than just his career to maintain contact with Micah. But the connection between them cannot be denied and Eden is willing to throw it all away for the chance to spend more time in Micah’s presence.
Caught between passionate desire and the forces that strive to keep them apart, Eden and Micah must navigate treachery, politics, but worst of all - themselves, to find each other. And when injustice threatens all they hold dear, they must make decide if what they’ve started is worth fighting for. And if they’re willing to risk it all to be together in a world where their love is forbidden.
!!Reader Warnings:!! this book contains content that may be upsetting to some readers. Dark themes in this series include graphic depictions of violence, torture, human trafficking, police brutality, sexual assault and depictions of rape/non-consensual sexual situations.
Garden of Eden is a mxm LBGT romance and contains very sexy scenes between two men. It is the first in a three book series and though it does not end on a cliffhanger, the story will continue in books 2 and 3. The series as a whole will have a HEA.
But a chance and erotic encounter with a deeply enigmatic Eden Voss awakens a passion within Micah...one that he thought to have vanished for good. A dangerous passion: one that could just get him killed.
Meanwhile, Eden Voss has secrets of his own: An officer in the Elysian Police Force, Eden risks more than just his career to maintain contact with Micah. But the connection between them cannot be denied and Eden is willing to throw it all away for the chance to spend more time in Micah’s presence.
Caught between passionate desire and the forces that strive to keep them apart, Eden and Micah must navigate treachery, politics, but worst of all - themselves, to find each other. And when injustice threatens all they hold dear, they must make decide if what they’ve started is worth fighting for. And if they’re willing to risk it all to be together in a world where their love is forbidden.
!!Reader Warnings:!! this book contains content that may be upsetting to some readers. Dark themes in this series include graphic depictions of violence, torture, human trafficking, police brutality, sexual assault and depictions of rape/non-consensual sexual situations.
Garden of Eden is a mxm LBGT romance and contains very sexy scenes between two men. It is the first in a three book series and though it does not end on a cliffhanger, the story will continue in books 2 and 3. The series as a whole will have a HEA.
324 pages, ebook
First published October 2, 2020
43 people are currently reading
302 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
abandoned
December 23, 2020One of the main characters is a cop that actively assists in oppression while also wanting to have sex with someone he is oppressing. That combined with some typos & too many unexplained themes, is just making me annoyed so imma put this back on the shelf. I don’t feel like reading any of that
April 14, 2023
3.5 rounded up
This new cover is just delicious, am I right? All sexy and mysterious*** exactly like this book :)
This follows the love story of Micah Vehyl and Eden Voss, their love is forbidden by the society where homosexuality is punished by death, but they are also on the opposite ends of the food chain.
These love birds try to find their way among a bigger story of an oppressed society living under the firm and lying hand of dictator Axel Tovar (I know... all these names are so epic, it just gives me chills). Rebellion is so needed!
Their story starts with insta lust, as if some higher power wants them together. The plot is incredible, as usual for Hellie, and always focuses on the wrongs and injustices of society and the mistreatment of human life.
We end the book with a HFN, but everything is open and ready to make all the wrongs right!
I don't have a problem per se with insta lust, but i cringe a little with insta love and i will die for you after only two times together.
The writing is very captivating, the plot is top shelf, and their sexy times are incredible hot, their desire for each other is palpable in every line.
So now we can only follow
Tartarus Rising!
I received a copy of this book from Hellie, and this is my honest opinion.
This new cover is just delicious, am I right? All sexy and mysterious*** exactly like this book :)
This follows the love story of Micah Vehyl and Eden Voss, their love is forbidden by the society where homosexuality is punished by death, but they are also on the opposite ends of the food chain.
These love birds try to find their way among a bigger story of an oppressed society living under the firm and lying hand of dictator Axel Tovar (I know... all these names are so epic, it just gives me chills). Rebellion is so needed!
Their story starts with insta lust, as if some higher power wants them together. The plot is incredible, as usual for Hellie, and always focuses on the wrongs and injustices of society and the mistreatment of human life.
We end the book with a HFN, but everything is open and ready to make all the wrongs right!
I don't have a problem per se with insta lust, but i cringe a little with insta love and i will die for you after only two times together.
The writing is very captivating, the plot is top shelf, and their sexy times are incredible hot, their desire for each other is palpable in every line.
So now we can only follow
Tartarus Rising!
I received a copy of this book from Hellie, and this is my honest opinion.
February 7, 2021
*****SPOILER FREE REC*****
I just finished this debut book and WOW I was blown away...
Cinderfella meets The Hunger Games
What I loved...
Micah is a strong, nuanced character who rises above what life has given him. #StringerThanYouThink
Eden stands up against the tyranny he sees after Micah shows him the truth. #IAmTheChange
Dystopian Future with awesome world building. #BeyondTheRealm
Suspense, secret plans and unlikely alliances. #ViveLaRevolution
Forbidden Love and meetings after dark. #MumsTheWord
Steam-o-meter: Moderate Steam!
Angst-o-meter: Moderate Angst
HFN.... with more coming in book 2!
This is debut and it of course needs some polishing, smoothing out some parts and enriching others. I will of course read book 2!
#HappyReading
I just finished this debut book and WOW I was blown away...
Cinderfella meets The Hunger Games
What I loved...
Micah is a strong, nuanced character who rises above what life has given him. #StringerThanYouThink
Eden stands up against the tyranny he sees after Micah shows him the truth. #IAmTheChange
Dystopian Future with awesome world building. #BeyondTheRealm
Suspense, secret plans and unlikely alliances. #ViveLaRevolution
Forbidden Love and meetings after dark. #MumsTheWord
Steam-o-meter: Moderate Steam!
Angst-o-meter: Moderate Angst
HFN.... with more coming in book 2!
This is debut and it of course needs some polishing, smoothing out some parts and enriching others. I will of course read book 2!
#HappyReading
April 15, 2023
"Like an elusive phantom, the cold of Tartarus hung over Micah’s shoulders, frigid and thick as fog. Not caused by wind nor by weather, the ambiguous chill burrowed deep into his bones, weighing him down, heavier than the pack slung over his back. Perhaps it was the lack of sunlight, the density of the thickly packed earth. Perhaps it was the ever-present darkness that seeped into every hole and crevice of the underground city, drowning out all light. Whatever the reason for the cold, it was constant, lingering, undeniable, but after eleven years without seeing the surface, Micah had grown used to it."
Oh wow! I absolutely adore Hellie Heat's recent work, but had somehow totally overlooked her debut Elysian Chronicles series, starting off with this total gem, Garden of Eden. The world building and character driven storyline are fantastic and the steam levels are hot and humid, just like Tartarus.
Garden of Eden is a dystopian, urban fantasy set in a society where homosexuality is punishable by death, and where a large portion of the population are living underground in Tartarus, a shady, souless, criminal world, hiding from the totalitarian rule above ground, led by the heinous President Axel Tovar. Only the rich and 'healthy' are deemed viable enough to live above ground in the fresh air and sunlight.
This is a story of rebellion but it's also a forbidden love story between an unlikely couple, 'opportunist' Micah Vehyal and Eden Voss, an officer in the Elysian Police Force. Their connection is the driving force the Resistance were looking for, given Micah's as yet untapped mysterious powers and Eden's familial relationship with Axel Tovar.
"Micah leaned in, pressing his lips to that perfectly shaped mouth. He breathed Eden’s air, his breath quickening. For a moment, time seemed to stand still, their bodies suspended together in motionless rhythm."
If you love a dystopian urban fantasy with a healthy dose of MM steam as much as I do, you need to get this one on your bookshelf immediately!
5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Oh wow! I absolutely adore Hellie Heat's recent work, but had somehow totally overlooked her debut Elysian Chronicles series, starting off with this total gem, Garden of Eden. The world building and character driven storyline are fantastic and the steam levels are hot and humid, just like Tartarus.
Garden of Eden is a dystopian, urban fantasy set in a society where homosexuality is punishable by death, and where a large portion of the population are living underground in Tartarus, a shady, souless, criminal world, hiding from the totalitarian rule above ground, led by the heinous President Axel Tovar. Only the rich and 'healthy' are deemed viable enough to live above ground in the fresh air and sunlight.
This is a story of rebellion but it's also a forbidden love story between an unlikely couple, 'opportunist' Micah Vehyal and Eden Voss, an officer in the Elysian Police Force. Their connection is the driving force the Resistance were looking for, given Micah's as yet untapped mysterious powers and Eden's familial relationship with Axel Tovar.
"Micah leaned in, pressing his lips to that perfectly shaped mouth. He breathed Eden’s air, his breath quickening. For a moment, time seemed to stand still, their bodies suspended together in motionless rhythm."
If you love a dystopian urban fantasy with a healthy dose of MM steam as much as I do, you need to get this one on your bookshelf immediately!
5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
April 13, 2023
I adore Hellie’s books and writing style, so it didn’t surprise me to read this and experience the brilliant character and world building in this book. She really excels at the details and making you as a reader go on that journey with the characters.
The world in this is dark, dystopian, miserable, eerie and gave some chilling vibes. I don’t know how to describe it, whilst it was contemporary, it also felt historical if that makes sense with certain events that happen. I think the mesh of themes in this story just gave it that unique mix.
Eden and Micah, two very different guys from opposing sides, but after they get down and dirty, a connection is made that they can’t ignore. Definitely on the verge of love at first fuck.
Eden is in a privileged position, completely opposite to Micah, but yet their traumas and experiences align. With Eden, you shouldn’t assume you know his life. It’s so well done. Their connection, the heat and that utter loyalty is beautiful. Micah is a product of horrific experiences from being a child that made him into the adult he now is. He is so fierce.
The plot of this story takes you on a ride of panic and fear and disgust of what is happening. It’s completely engulfing and I just wanted to rush through, as needed to see what happened next as I was a little panicked.
I’m going straight into the next book. Thanks for sending me a copy Hellie, as this is a story I would’ve kicked myself not reading.
The world in this is dark, dystopian, miserable, eerie and gave some chilling vibes. I don’t know how to describe it, whilst it was contemporary, it also felt historical if that makes sense with certain events that happen. I think the mesh of themes in this story just gave it that unique mix.
Eden and Micah, two very different guys from opposing sides, but after they get down and dirty, a connection is made that they can’t ignore. Definitely on the verge of love at first fuck.
Eden is in a privileged position, completely opposite to Micah, but yet their traumas and experiences align. With Eden, you shouldn’t assume you know his life. It’s so well done. Their connection, the heat and that utter loyalty is beautiful. Micah is a product of horrific experiences from being a child that made him into the adult he now is. He is so fierce.
The plot of this story takes you on a ride of panic and fear and disgust of what is happening. It’s completely engulfing and I just wanted to rush through, as needed to see what happened next as I was a little panicked.
I’m going straight into the next book. Thanks for sending me a copy Hellie, as this is a story I would’ve kicked myself not reading.
did-not-finish
September 21, 2022DNF @ 24%. No rating.
While the writing was great and I liked how well the author wove information about the world into the narrative, there was a strong YA vibe that made me realize this one wasn't for me.
The entire world is completely black and white with everything being portrayed as an extreme. The bad guys are the most evil people to ever exist (they loudly talk about their evil plans and evil opinions in the company of others) and the oppressed people are all helpless victims who suffer 24/7. Everything about the world's history and how it's run was designed to be as tragic and angsty as possible while ignoring any bit of realism that would get in the way of the angst.
For example, most of the population is forced to live underground in a filthy, dark cavern that contains their homes. They trade for food and supplies with each other or buy it from each other using money, but the problem is that very little money or supplies seem to be coming into the underground city. It's only accessible using a stairway and there's no discussion about deliveries being brought. There's no agriculture, no factories and only the brothels seem to be visited by people from above ground so the brothels seem to be the only businesses bringing new money into the economy. Everybody either works in the mines as slaves (so they're not paid) or they just exist, doing drugs and being miserable. There's no way an economy could function like this and there are so many plot holes that I couldn't stay focused on the narrative. Then there's the prison. It's a stone tower that has NO WINDOWS (I feel bad but I burst out laughing when I read that) and the prisoners just sit in the dark, enclosed tower for the duration of their sentence and the lack of oxygen inflow or CO2 removal has no impact on their lives.
The author also took various horrible aspects of history and crammed them all together in order to make things as awful and depressing as possible. There are gladiator-style death matches that prisoners are forced to participate in. Slavery in all forms is an accepted part of society. The church is an oppressive force of massive power and influence. The police/military force dress and act like the SS.
There were also aspects of the worldbuilding and history that made no sense to me. The reason the majority of people are forced to live underground is because there was nuclear radiation exposure on the surface a while ago and the SS (sorry, the EP) went around shooting anybody who was contaminated and forcing the non-contaminated people to live below ground. If they behave, individuals can eventually be selected to go above ground and be given a farm. None of this made any sense. Radiation positioning isn't contagious and the connection between forcing the healthy people out of their homes and into an underground city was never explained.
I also burst out laughing at how all the nobleman were described as having long, flowing hair (the president walks around with his silver hair flowing like a cape) and the majority had bright green eyes. Yeah, this is definitely YA.
I hope my review wasn't rude but due to the author tagging the story with many dark themes, I assumed it was adult oriented fantasy. Even if that's what the author was going for, the YA themes and vibes are way too strong for me to take it seriously. Sorry...
While the writing was great and I liked how well the author wove information about the world into the narrative, there was a strong YA vibe that made me realize this one wasn't for me.
The entire world is completely black and white with everything being portrayed as an extreme. The bad guys are the most evil people to ever exist (they loudly talk about their evil plans and evil opinions in the company of others) and the oppressed people are all helpless victims who suffer 24/7. Everything about the world's history and how it's run was designed to be as tragic and angsty as possible while ignoring any bit of realism that would get in the way of the angst.
For example, most of the population is forced to live underground in a filthy, dark cavern that contains their homes. They trade for food and supplies with each other or buy it from each other using money, but the problem is that very little money or supplies seem to be coming into the underground city. It's only accessible using a stairway and there's no discussion about deliveries being brought. There's no agriculture, no factories and only the brothels seem to be visited by people from above ground so the brothels seem to be the only businesses bringing new money into the economy. Everybody either works in the mines as slaves (so they're not paid) or they just exist, doing drugs and being miserable. There's no way an economy could function like this and there are so many plot holes that I couldn't stay focused on the narrative. Then there's the prison. It's a stone tower that has NO WINDOWS (I feel bad but I burst out laughing when I read that) and the prisoners just sit in the dark, enclosed tower for the duration of their sentence and the lack of oxygen inflow or CO2 removal has no impact on their lives.
The author also took various horrible aspects of history and crammed them all together in order to make things as awful and depressing as possible. There are gladiator-style death matches that prisoners are forced to participate in. Slavery in all forms is an accepted part of society. The church is an oppressive force of massive power and influence. The police/military force dress and act like the SS.
There were also aspects of the worldbuilding and history that made no sense to me. The reason the majority of people are forced to live underground is because there was nuclear radiation exposure on the surface a while ago and the SS (sorry, the EP) went around shooting anybody who was contaminated and forcing the non-contaminated people to live below ground. If they behave, individuals can eventually be selected to go above ground and be given a farm. None of this made any sense. Radiation positioning isn't contagious and the connection between forcing the healthy people out of their homes and into an underground city was never explained.
I also burst out laughing at how all the nobleman were described as having long, flowing hair (the president walks around with his silver hair flowing like a cape) and the majority had bright green eyes. Yeah, this is definitely YA.
I hope my review wasn't rude but due to the author tagging the story with many dark themes, I assumed it was adult oriented fantasy. Even if that's what the author was going for, the YA themes and vibes are way too strong for me to take it seriously. Sorry...
May 31, 2023
Un grand merci à l’auteure pour cet ARC (seconde édition) et sa confiance.
Très peu d’auteur.es peuvent me faire apprécier les dystopies, et Hellie Heat est l’une d’iel.
Ses romans sont toujours une bousculade d’émotions. La force avec laquelle on ressent la lutte des personnages, leur détresse, leur espoir, leurs sentiments l’un pour l’autre, prend aux tripes.
Dans ce monde où les biens nés fortunés vivent à la surface et profitent de la lumière du soleil, Micah est un empathe victime de l’injustice sociale vivant sous terre à Tartarus, entassés dans les pires conditions aux côtés des pauvres, des criminels, des non-conformistes, et de ceux qui ont simplement eu la malchance d’y voir le jour.
Eden fait partie de la police Élyséenne à laquelle le gouvernement permet les pires atrocités afin de garder les gens au pas. On découvre grâce à Eden qu’Elysia n’est pas si idyllique et qu’il est loin de mener la vie rêvée d’un golden boy. Car, bien que plus à l’abri que Micah, Eden est tout aussi en danger si son secret venait à être révélé. Puisque ici, l’homosexualité est passible de la peine de mort.
Cette dystopie n’est finalement pas si dystopique quand on sait que ces conditions de vie se retrouvent partout à travers le monde et parfois toutes réunies dans le même pays.
J’ai adoré Eden et Micah! Eden a le cœur généreux et tendre, il n’hésite jamais à faire ce qui est juste peu importe les répercussions sur lui-même, et Micah est un combattant bien décidé à rester en vie et à ne laisser personne l’atteindre. Sauf peut-être progressivement Eden.
Hellie Heat sais parfaitement comment faire grimper mon taux d’anxiété.😉 Le tome 1 se termine sur un léger cliffhanger mais pas d’inquiétude c’est un HFN pour nos personnages principaux que j’ai hâte de retrouver au prochain tome.🥰
Très peu d’auteur.es peuvent me faire apprécier les dystopies, et Hellie Heat est l’une d’iel.
Ses romans sont toujours une bousculade d’émotions. La force avec laquelle on ressent la lutte des personnages, leur détresse, leur espoir, leurs sentiments l’un pour l’autre, prend aux tripes.
Dans ce monde où les biens nés fortunés vivent à la surface et profitent de la lumière du soleil, Micah est un empathe victime de l’injustice sociale vivant sous terre à Tartarus, entassés dans les pires conditions aux côtés des pauvres, des criminels, des non-conformistes, et de ceux qui ont simplement eu la malchance d’y voir le jour.
Eden fait partie de la police Élyséenne à laquelle le gouvernement permet les pires atrocités afin de garder les gens au pas. On découvre grâce à Eden qu’Elysia n’est pas si idyllique et qu’il est loin de mener la vie rêvée d’un golden boy. Car, bien que plus à l’abri que Micah, Eden est tout aussi en danger si son secret venait à être révélé. Puisque ici, l’homosexualité est passible de la peine de mort.
Cette dystopie n’est finalement pas si dystopique quand on sait que ces conditions de vie se retrouvent partout à travers le monde et parfois toutes réunies dans le même pays.
J’ai adoré Eden et Micah! Eden a le cœur généreux et tendre, il n’hésite jamais à faire ce qui est juste peu importe les répercussions sur lui-même, et Micah est un combattant bien décidé à rester en vie et à ne laisser personne l’atteindre. Sauf peut-être progressivement Eden.
Hellie Heat sais parfaitement comment faire grimper mon taux d’anxiété.😉 Le tome 1 se termine sur un léger cliffhanger mais pas d’inquiétude c’est un HFN pour nos personnages principaux que j’ai hâte de retrouver au prochain tome.🥰
September 30, 2020
I was lucky enough to get an ARC of this book so I could read it early. When I first opened it, I figured I’d read a few pages before bed, but I got sucked into this intriguing world. Before I realized it, I was 100 pages in and knew I was going to be tired the next day! The author did a good job revealing bits and pieces of the setting – a dystopian island – and the differences between the society on the surface and the underworld, which is a shady world of criminals and castaways, as well as literally underground. I like that the author doesn’t reveal everything about this place – nor about the characters’ pasts – right away, but includes tantalizing hints that made me curious to see more as I read this book and in the rest of the series.
Even better than the setting are the characters. Micah comes alive right away. All the tragedy and abuse he’s experienced have hardened him, but he’s a loyal friend, and you get glimpses of his hidden, vulnerable, caring center. I want to wrap Micah up in a fuzzy blanket and give him hot chocolate. He needs some serious TLC. With Eden, I admit I was afraid he’d be a bit too much of a golden boy for my taste, but his character learns and grows throughout the story, and I really like him.
The chemistry between Micah and Eden was great. Sparks flew right away. I feel like the only drawback in the book is that they don’t get to spend much time together, but I’m not really complaining, because the time they do share is steamy! I’m eager to see how they’ll navigate the next phase of their relationship in the next book.
The secondary characters are also well drawn. I especially liked Micah’s sweet friend August (also deserving of much blanket-and-cocoa pampering) and the fiery gladiator Delta (there are several strong female characters – another plus). The villain is truly despicable – selfish, manipulative, cruel, and powerful. The kind of bad guy you love to hate.
Can’t wait for the sequel!
Even better than the setting are the characters. Micah comes alive right away. All the tragedy and abuse he’s experienced have hardened him, but he’s a loyal friend, and you get glimpses of his hidden, vulnerable, caring center. I want to wrap Micah up in a fuzzy blanket and give him hot chocolate. He needs some serious TLC. With Eden, I admit I was afraid he’d be a bit too much of a golden boy for my taste, but his character learns and grows throughout the story, and I really like him.
The chemistry between Micah and Eden was great. Sparks flew right away. I feel like the only drawback in the book is that they don’t get to spend much time together, but I’m not really complaining, because the time they do share is steamy! I’m eager to see how they’ll navigate the next phase of their relationship in the next book.
The secondary characters are also well drawn. I especially liked Micah’s sweet friend August (also deserving of much blanket-and-cocoa pampering) and the fiery gladiator Delta (there are several strong female characters – another plus). The villain is truly despicable – selfish, manipulative, cruel, and powerful. The kind of bad guy you love to hate.
Can’t wait for the sequel!
September 29, 2020
I received an ARC for this novel about a week ago and breezed through it. For this being a debut novel, I was really surprised at how fleshed out and well written it is. The sex scenes are ON FIRE—like the highest level of male on male I've ever read. It doesn't crowd the sex with unrealistic and bubbly ecstasy. It feels real and VERY steamy in it's detailed descriptions and wide vocabulary. I've read a lot of heterosexual sex scenes in other books and this blows them out of the water.
I don't get to see dark fantasy and M/M romance very often and this checks boxes I didn't even know needed to be checked in my life. Had a novel like this been popular when I was younger (late teens because the book is quite graphic), it might have trimmed a lot of the antiquated shame that comes with being a nerdy gay boy and not fitting in. Both Micah and Eden are interesting characters in very different ways and it is really exciting to see this dystopian world change as they come to grow closer. In fairness, I'd say my only gripe is that the book is very short, but there are two more books coming out later to continue the saga so I will just have to be patient to find out where these two characters end up. A lot of the darker concepts are surprising at first, but I really love that this book isn't flowery in any way. It's raw and, at times, delving into the more macabre. I appreciate that rawness and how the prose feel natural and not pressed to the point of purple. There is so much to love about this debut novel and I can tell there will be many more great things from this author in the future.
I don't get to see dark fantasy and M/M romance very often and this checks boxes I didn't even know needed to be checked in my life. Had a novel like this been popular when I was younger (late teens because the book is quite graphic), it might have trimmed a lot of the antiquated shame that comes with being a nerdy gay boy and not fitting in. Both Micah and Eden are interesting characters in very different ways and it is really exciting to see this dystopian world change as they come to grow closer. In fairness, I'd say my only gripe is that the book is very short, but there are two more books coming out later to continue the saga so I will just have to be patient to find out where these two characters end up. A lot of the darker concepts are surprising at first, but I really love that this book isn't flowery in any way. It's raw and, at times, delving into the more macabre. I appreciate that rawness and how the prose feel natural and not pressed to the point of purple. There is so much to love about this debut novel and I can tell there will be many more great things from this author in the future.
May 1, 2023
Loved it ❤️
Micha and Eden will steal your breath away in this action-packed story of a dystopian world in ruins. Micha is surviving amongst the last dregs of humanity underground, barely holding on to his sanity. His days melt into one endless loop of following Booker's orders, watching the people he cares for most fade away from desperation and trying not to suffocate in his own loneliness. His strong emphatic abilities only make him distance himself from others, as he is often repulsed by their true nature.
Eden is a man with a secret, a forbidden longing he pursues where all sin thrives. But amongst filth and despair, he finds the one pure thing in his entire existence. Micha brings him back to life, breathing hope into every kiss they share. Eden doesn't even pretend to fight his undeniable connection with Micha even if the other man is quick in his attempt to push him away.
Their feelings are tested time and time again as their circumstances and true identities are revealed. Loyalties are tested and new alliances formed as they try to save their loved ones while fighting for their love.
Their story was real and raw. Their passion unfiltered. The plot will have your head spinning, so many twists and turns.
I absolutely loved it ❤️
Micha and Eden will steal your breath away in this action-packed story of a dystopian world in ruins. Micha is surviving amongst the last dregs of humanity underground, barely holding on to his sanity. His days melt into one endless loop of following Booker's orders, watching the people he cares for most fade away from desperation and trying not to suffocate in his own loneliness. His strong emphatic abilities only make him distance himself from others, as he is often repulsed by their true nature.
Eden is a man with a secret, a forbidden longing he pursues where all sin thrives. But amongst filth and despair, he finds the one pure thing in his entire existence. Micha brings him back to life, breathing hope into every kiss they share. Eden doesn't even pretend to fight his undeniable connection with Micha even if the other man is quick in his attempt to push him away.
Their feelings are tested time and time again as their circumstances and true identities are revealed. Loyalties are tested and new alliances formed as they try to save their loved ones while fighting for their love.
Their story was real and raw. Their passion unfiltered. The plot will have your head spinning, so many twists and turns.
I absolutely loved it ❤️
April 13, 2023
So I loved Hellie’s books Nyte and His Dark Desires, so I knew I had to try this. Plus I’ve been trying to branch out more in dystopian, ever since loving Monstrous.
This has more of the political dystopian aspect, reminding me a lot of Hunger Games or Divergent - but make it adult and MM. So if you were a fan of those books back in the day, I would suggest this as your next stop!
Sadly for me, I was never a fan of those books. I will say this book was very well done, I was rooting for the MC’s to be together, and I appreciated the world built, which is why I gave it 4 stars. This is a damn good book!
I just prefer a different style of dystopia I guess. I have a very hard time connecting with this style, but that’s my problem, not the book.
This has more of the political dystopian aspect, reminding me a lot of Hunger Games or Divergent - but make it adult and MM. So if you were a fan of those books back in the day, I would suggest this as your next stop!
Sadly for me, I was never a fan of those books. I will say this book was very well done, I was rooting for the MC’s to be together, and I appreciated the world built, which is why I gave it 4 stars. This is a damn good book!
I just prefer a different style of dystopia I guess. I have a very hard time connecting with this style, but that’s my problem, not the book.
May 13, 2023
3,75/5
« Garden of Eden » se déroule dans un monde dystopique, un monde assez sombre où la population vit dans un monde « souterrain » nommé Tartarus, du moins pour la majorité.
Deux hommes issus de deux mondes opposés, deux castes différentes, vont se trouver sur la même route, reste à savoir s'ils voudront et pourront parcourir un bout de chemin ensemble.
Je n'ai pas envie de trop en dire en fait, car on en apprend au fur et à mesure. Tartarus est un monde sombre, humide, dangereux où l'homosexualité est condamnable aussi, le régime est plutôt totalitaire et gouverné par le président Axel Tovar. Micah et Eden n'ont absolument rien à faire ensemble mais pourtant l'attraction sera évidente. L'un appartenant au monde souterrain et l'autre celui de la lumière.
Je me suis attachée aux deux personnages. On pourrait croire que Eden est un privilégié, mais au contraire... On comprendra rapidement que sa vie est loin d'être évidente. Si certains le pensent privilégié de par sa condition, ses liens familiaux, il est rabaissé constamment et pas apprécié à sa juste valeur. Sa rencontre avec Micah va faire office d'électrochoc je pense, car il va avoir envie de plus...
Micah lui a toujours du lutter pour survivre. Il va se méfier d'Eden, forcément, du fait de son rôle auprès de la société, mais encore plus lorsqu'une révélation va avoir lieu.
J'ai vraiment aimé ma lecture et le monde que nous offre Hellie Heat. La romance est plutôt lente même si les deux protagonistes craquent rapidement, les sentiments prennent leur temps à s'installer.
Il me tarde de poursuivre ma lecture de la saga !
« Garden of Eden » se déroule dans un monde dystopique, un monde assez sombre où la population vit dans un monde « souterrain » nommé Tartarus, du moins pour la majorité.
Deux hommes issus de deux mondes opposés, deux castes différentes, vont se trouver sur la même route, reste à savoir s'ils voudront et pourront parcourir un bout de chemin ensemble.
Je n'ai pas envie de trop en dire en fait, car on en apprend au fur et à mesure. Tartarus est un monde sombre, humide, dangereux où l'homosexualité est condamnable aussi, le régime est plutôt totalitaire et gouverné par le président Axel Tovar. Micah et Eden n'ont absolument rien à faire ensemble mais pourtant l'attraction sera évidente. L'un appartenant au monde souterrain et l'autre celui de la lumière.
Je me suis attachée aux deux personnages. On pourrait croire que Eden est un privilégié, mais au contraire... On comprendra rapidement que sa vie est loin d'être évidente. Si certains le pensent privilégié de par sa condition, ses liens familiaux, il est rabaissé constamment et pas apprécié à sa juste valeur. Sa rencontre avec Micah va faire office d'électrochoc je pense, car il va avoir envie de plus...
Micah lui a toujours du lutter pour survivre. Il va se méfier d'Eden, forcément, du fait de son rôle auprès de la société, mais encore plus lorsqu'une révélation va avoir lieu.
J'ai vraiment aimé ma lecture et le monde que nous offre Hellie Heat. La romance est plutôt lente même si les deux protagonistes craquent rapidement, les sentiments prennent leur temps à s'installer.
Il me tarde de poursuivre ma lecture de la saga !
December 27, 2025
3.5/5
i was drawn in from the first couple of pages. this author is new to me, but i enjoyed her writing style; it just flows really well. the writing quality of many stories in the m/m genre leaves much to be desired, but it was clear from very early on that hellie heat knows what she's doing.
this story is like the lovechild of The City of Ember and The Hunger Games...but make it MM. although there's some dark subject matter, it still has sort of a YA vibe to it.
i usually hate when the two MCs get hot and heavy right off the bat (let alone in the very first chapter), but i feel like it worked pretty decently here. the tension was believable, the dialogue realistic. i will say, though, that them caring about/loving each other so much when they'd only met a couple of times felt a bit rushed and sudden. i wish the build-up of feelings between them had been drawn out and explored a little more.
something else i appreciated was the world building. there were no lengthy, torturous info-dumps; details of information were, for the most part, integrated in subtle and tasteful ways that didn't take away from the story. the pacing was good as well.
it wasn't a complete home run for me, though. i just felt like something was missing. and at some parts, i could definitely see the vision, but the scene would feel a bit flat, like author was going off a storyboard/script and was going through the motions.
i also wasn't completely sold on eden's character; at some points, he was shy and uncertain, but he's also supposed to be the respected lieutenant of the police force. i couldn't really get a good grasp on him.
for the most part, though, the world and story were interesting. i'll be putting the next book in the series on my tbr list!
i was drawn in from the first couple of pages. this author is new to me, but i enjoyed her writing style; it just flows really well. the writing quality of many stories in the m/m genre leaves much to be desired, but it was clear from very early on that hellie heat knows what she's doing.
this story is like the lovechild of The City of Ember and The Hunger Games...but make it MM. although there's some dark subject matter, it still has sort of a YA vibe to it.
i usually hate when the two MCs get hot and heavy right off the bat (let alone in the very first chapter), but i feel like it worked pretty decently here. the tension was believable, the dialogue realistic. i will say, though, that them caring about/loving each other so much when they'd only met a couple of times felt a bit rushed and sudden. i wish the build-up of feelings between them had been drawn out and explored a little more.
something else i appreciated was the world building. there were no lengthy, torturous info-dumps; details of information were, for the most part, integrated in subtle and tasteful ways that didn't take away from the story. the pacing was good as well.
it wasn't a complete home run for me, though. i just felt like something was missing. and at some parts, i could definitely see the vision, but the scene would feel a bit flat, like author was going off a storyboard/script and was going through the motions.
i also wasn't completely sold on eden's character; at some points, he was shy and uncertain, but he's also supposed to be the respected lieutenant of the police force. i couldn't really get a good grasp on him.
for the most part, though, the world and story were interesting. i'll be putting the next book in the series on my tbr list!
October 2, 2020
When I received an ARC copy of this book, I had no idea how much I would end up enjoying it. I started reading and instantly became engrossed with Micah and Eden, as well as the friends and foes in their lives.
Micah was practical and intelligent, able to maneuver through his underground world like a shadow. While Micah lived with his brother and several other men, he kept mostly to himself and never dreamed of anything in his life ever changing.
Eden appeared from the world above like a bright light in Micah's darkness. The two had what should have been a one-time tryst but quickly realized they couldn't get enough of each other. Unfortunately, Eden had secrets and responsibilities that would put them both in extreme danger.
While so much of this world - above and below ground - was hopeless and horrible, Eden and Micah together were wonderful. Their feelings for each other gave Eden a spark of a dream for change, and gave Micah his first feelings of happiness in years. Nothing was easy for these men, and I can't even imagine what they will have to go through in the next two installments of this series. Whatever comes, I do know that I will be here for all of it. The characters were easy to fall for, the world was brutal and realistic, and the writing was excellent. I can't wait for more!
Micah was practical and intelligent, able to maneuver through his underground world like a shadow. While Micah lived with his brother and several other men, he kept mostly to himself and never dreamed of anything in his life ever changing.
Eden appeared from the world above like a bright light in Micah's darkness. The two had what should have been a one-time tryst but quickly realized they couldn't get enough of each other. Unfortunately, Eden had secrets and responsibilities that would put them both in extreme danger.
While so much of this world - above and below ground - was hopeless and horrible, Eden and Micah together were wonderful. Their feelings for each other gave Eden a spark of a dream for change, and gave Micah his first feelings of happiness in years. Nothing was easy for these men, and I can't even imagine what they will have to go through in the next two installments of this series. Whatever comes, I do know that I will be here for all of it. The characters were easy to fall for, the world was brutal and realistic, and the writing was excellent. I can't wait for more!
January 17, 2022
A friend of mine recommended this book to me but I'm honestly a little disappointed. Potential was there but this kind of felt like how 50 Shades of Gray ripped off Twilight because it reads like fanfic of bad manga tropes. Writing itself is okay but story is meh and the sex scenes are sexcessive.
May 31, 2021
Frankly I could hardly wrap my mind around the fact that this is a debut novel. I was sucked into this dark dystopian world after only a few paragraphs. Great writing and general world building, but the best part are the multilayered characters. There is no black and white, good or bad, they are just people with their strengths and weaknesses trying to survive as best as they can. Their pasts and subsequently the reasons for their actions are revealed slowly as the story unravels. Small hints and memories will keep you engaged, wanting to learn more. That goes for all the characters in this book not just MC's. Some certainly deserve books of their own. I've "adopted" Micah right away - he's a survivor, hardened far beyond his young age, but I have some mixed feelings about Eden, because he sometimes comes across as naive golden boy and that just doesn't add up with his past and experience. The sparks fly between the two right away, but their coupling is forbidden in this world. Can they survive and build something more? The villain comes across as a bit cartoonish, but on the second thought - all real life dictators do - that doesn't make them any less dangerous or powerful. Some strong and complex female characters appear which is a bonus that I'm sometimes missing in MM genre. The reason for 4 stars instead of 5 are some (maybe minor) practical issues I've had with this story. One example is that obviously they have electricity (coms) but both worlds are candlelit?? Other is that most of the secondary characters have green eyes, I've counted 6... Only 2% of the world population has green eyes. I get it, It's actually my favorite eye color, but maybe next time give green eyes to one of the MC's? These are just 2 examples, there's more. Such things just throw me out of the great written story. Despite my reservations (maybe it's just me) I highly recommend this series. By the time I've written this review I've already finished the second book and believe me it's even better!
April 15, 2023
Read Garden of Eden and expect to see…
🥀 Dystopian/ Post-Apocalyptic World
🥀 Slight Fantasy Element
🥀 Political Intrigue & Corruption
🥀 Very Dark Themes
🥀 Character Angst & Trauma
🥀 Lust to Love Pipeline
~ I was given an ARC of Garden of Eden in exchange for my honest review and opinions! ~
💘Romance: 4/5
🌶Spice: 4/5
🏃♀️Pacing: 5/5
🎭Plot: 4/5
🗺Worldbuilding: 5/5
👀Perspective: (3rd) / Duel POV
I’m usually a fun and fresh fantasy girly, but the dark dystopian/last society after a nuclear fallout vibe in this book was immaculate 😩👌
It was giving M/M Hunger Games but Garden of Eden had a lot of different elements to it that I appreciated. Hellie really did a great job keeping me on my toes. There were several instances when I was thrown off by something unexpected happening and I was like “*gasp* What a twist” 😲
The worldbuilding is superb! 10/10! Also, there are 2 MAPS!! I love book maps!
Eden is very sweet with Micah and I was swooning every time they were together 😚💞
The spice was pretty good too! Steamy in just the right ways for me!! There was a good spice to plot balance as well!!
One criticism...Eden is dumb as hell.
I was genuinely screaming at this book whenever Eden had a thought, like sir, think before you act!!
He literally was giving me a headache with his dumbassery… still love him tho 🙄💕
Also, there were a few points in the story that I felt didn’t make the most sense, but those were few and far between and didn’t take away from the overarching story. There are two more books in this series, so who’s to say those plot holes won’t be filled… only time will tell 👀
With that said, Garden of Eden is a gem of a book. The new covers are lovely as well and I will be purchasing the next two books immediately!! I need to know what happens next!!
As always, happy reading! 🩸🗡
🥀 Dystopian/ Post-Apocalyptic World
🥀 Slight Fantasy Element
🥀 Political Intrigue & Corruption
🥀 Very Dark Themes
🥀 Character Angst & Trauma
🥀 Lust to Love Pipeline
~ I was given an ARC of Garden of Eden in exchange for my honest review and opinions! ~
“And then...you approached me. You opened the door and...with you, I felt everything. You woke me back up, and I’m terrified of never feeling that again.”
💘Romance: 4/5
🌶Spice: 4/5
🏃♀️Pacing: 5/5
🎭Plot: 4/5
🗺Worldbuilding: 5/5
👀Perspective: (3rd) / Duel POV
I’m usually a fun and fresh fantasy girly, but the dark dystopian/last society after a nuclear fallout vibe in this book was immaculate 😩👌
It was giving M/M Hunger Games but Garden of Eden had a lot of different elements to it that I appreciated. Hellie really did a great job keeping me on my toes. There were several instances when I was thrown off by something unexpected happening and I was like “*gasp* What a twist” 😲
The worldbuilding is superb! 10/10! Also, there are 2 MAPS!! I love book maps!
Eden is very sweet with Micah and I was swooning every time they were together 😚💞
The spice was pretty good too! Steamy in just the right ways for me!! There was a good spice to plot balance as well!!
One criticism...Eden is dumb as hell.
I was genuinely screaming at this book whenever Eden had a thought, like sir, think before you act!!
He literally was giving me a headache with his dumbassery… still love him tho 🙄💕
Also, there were a few points in the story that I felt didn’t make the most sense, but those were few and far between and didn’t take away from the overarching story. There are two more books in this series, so who’s to say those plot holes won’t be filled… only time will tell 👀
With that said, Garden of Eden is a gem of a book. The new covers are lovely as well and I will be purchasing the next two books immediately!! I need to know what happens next!!
As always, happy reading! 🩸🗡
April 11, 2023
Oh my, I'm not reading this kind of trope a lot, but this book blew me away. I started a bit reluctantly but about 2 chapters in I was hooked, line and sinker. I was totally engrossed in the story and wanted to read as quick as possible to get to the end, - which, and that is the only negative I can say- came far to soon for me.😁
The story takes place on an island Elysian that is ruled by an evil, vicious tirant who has divided the island in two different parts. Above ground is for the privileged, the rich and noble and underground, a place called Tartarus, is were the weak, the poor and disabled live in darkness doing hard labour.
Eden Voss is a Luitenant in the Elysian Police Force. In the beginning of the story I thought of him as a bit shallow, as if he looked down on the people below ground, but as soon as he meets Micah, he changes, he starts to see that there's more than he knows.
Micah Vehyl lives in Tartarus, he's witty, quick and a criminal due to his life's circumstances. He doesn't trust anybody and hates everything from above ground. When he meets Eden however, sparks immediately fly. They are very attracted to each other and decide to see each other again secretly.
Bit by bit they grow really close but still keep secrets from one another. When their world is turned upside down they have to decide if their new found love is worth fighting for, if they are willing to do whatever it takes to find that happiness both long for.
I loved how Hellie only gives us bits, she doesn't reveal too much at once and makes us crave for more. This was a great start and I can't wait to get my hands on the next two books.
*I kindly received an ARC by the author in exchange for an honest review.*
The story takes place on an island Elysian that is ruled by an evil, vicious tirant who has divided the island in two different parts. Above ground is for the privileged, the rich and noble and underground, a place called Tartarus, is were the weak, the poor and disabled live in darkness doing hard labour.
Eden Voss is a Luitenant in the Elysian Police Force. In the beginning of the story I thought of him as a bit shallow, as if he looked down on the people below ground, but as soon as he meets Micah, he changes, he starts to see that there's more than he knows.
Micah Vehyl lives in Tartarus, he's witty, quick and a criminal due to his life's circumstances. He doesn't trust anybody and hates everything from above ground. When he meets Eden however, sparks immediately fly. They are very attracted to each other and decide to see each other again secretly.
Bit by bit they grow really close but still keep secrets from one another. When their world is turned upside down they have to decide if their new found love is worth fighting for, if they are willing to do whatever it takes to find that happiness both long for.
I loved how Hellie only gives us bits, she doesn't reveal too much at once and makes us crave for more. This was a great start and I can't wait to get my hands on the next two books.
*I kindly received an ARC by the author in exchange for an honest review.*
May 10, 2023
“Then he felt it. The heated intensity of a stare from across the room. Someone was watching him. Micah didn’t need to turn to feel the weight of it burning into him. It was a potent mixture of curiosity and lust. The echo of it made him hard beneath the fabric of his leather breeches.”
Where are all my friends who love a good political dystopian at?! Cause I have a recommendation for you! This book has all the political intrigue, post apocalyptic, adrenaline inducing goodness you found in old school YA dystopian’s like Hunger Games and Divergent (think book one) but written for adults, with a splash of paranormal and is gay!
Micah lives in the underground and does what he can to survive, living under the thumb of his brother that saved him as a child, Micah pushes back as much as he can but understands the way things need to be in order to survive. But he has a secret that very few know about, a power that he does not truly understand. Eden is a police officer in Elysian (above ground) and is the step son to a very powerful man. He had spent so much life being someone he isn’t just so he could survive, that he feels dead inside. He makes a visit to the underground just to try and feel something and his and Micah’s chemistry is instant: Eden feels alive and Micah might have something to fight for other then just surviving. But nothing will be easy for these two. You will root for them hard: both are so brave and strong and they will have earned their HEA in the end.
This book has a ton of triggers. Make sure you check those out before you start.
Where are all my friends who love a good political dystopian at?! Cause I have a recommendation for you! This book has all the political intrigue, post apocalyptic, adrenaline inducing goodness you found in old school YA dystopian’s like Hunger Games and Divergent (think book one) but written for adults, with a splash of paranormal and is gay!
Micah lives in the underground and does what he can to survive, living under the thumb of his brother that saved him as a child, Micah pushes back as much as he can but understands the way things need to be in order to survive. But he has a secret that very few know about, a power that he does not truly understand. Eden is a police officer in Elysian (above ground) and is the step son to a very powerful man. He had spent so much life being someone he isn’t just so he could survive, that he feels dead inside. He makes a visit to the underground just to try and feel something and his and Micah’s chemistry is instant: Eden feels alive and Micah might have something to fight for other then just surviving. But nothing will be easy for these two. You will root for them hard: both are so brave and strong and they will have earned their HEA in the end.
This book has a ton of triggers. Make sure you check those out before you start.
April 13, 2023
I adore Hellie’s books and writing style, so it didn’t surprise me to read this and experience the brilliant character and world building in this book. She really excels at the details and making you as a reader go on that journey with the characters.
The world in this is dark, dystopian, miserable, eerie and gave some chilling vibes. I don’t know how to describe it, whilst it was contemporary, it also felt historical if that makes sense with certain events that happen. I think the mesh of themes in this story just gave it that unique mix.
Eden and Micah, two very different guys from opposing sides, but after they get down and dirty, a connection is made that they can’t ignore. Definitely on the verge of love at first fuck.
Eden is in a privileged position, completely opposite to Micah, but yet their traumas and experiences align. With Eden, you shouldn’t assume you know his life. It’s so well done. Their connection, the heat and that utter loyalty is beautiful. Micah is a product of horrific experiences from being a child that made him into the adult he now is. He is so fierce.
The plot of this story takes you on a ride of panic and fear and disgust of what is happening. It’s completely engulfing and I just wanted to rush through, as needed to see what happened next as I was a little panicked.
I’m going straight into the next book. Thanks for sending me a copy Hellie, as this is a story I would’ve kicked myself not reading.
The world in this is dark, dystopian, miserable, eerie and gave some chilling vibes. I don’t know how to describe it, whilst it was contemporary, it also felt historical if that makes sense with certain events that happen. I think the mesh of themes in this story just gave it that unique mix.
Eden and Micah, two very different guys from opposing sides, but after they get down and dirty, a connection is made that they can’t ignore. Definitely on the verge of love at first fuck.
Eden is in a privileged position, completely opposite to Micah, but yet their traumas and experiences align. With Eden, you shouldn’t assume you know his life. It’s so well done. Their connection, the heat and that utter loyalty is beautiful. Micah is a product of horrific experiences from being a child that made him into the adult he now is. He is so fierce.
The plot of this story takes you on a ride of panic and fear and disgust of what is happening. It’s completely engulfing and I just wanted to rush through, as needed to see what happened next as I was a little panicked.
I’m going straight into the next book. Thanks for sending me a copy Hellie, as this is a story I would’ve kicked myself not reading.
May 22, 2021
I regret it
I’ve been putting this book in the back burner for quite some time. The beginning was so confusing because so many things were happening and didn’t realize this book was a dystopian book which is even more amazing cause there is literally not many m/m romance books that are.
The beginning was boring and if u get through to half way of the book it gets so good and definitely worth the read to the point I couldn’t put down the book or while I’m doing errands I’m thinking about what’s going to happen next I need to know.
Summary of it is is that you meet Micah a beautiful boy who was raised underneath the city with others. Sorta like hunger games kind of thing where the people above be living rich while those below are poor. Micah is troubled and different from others he’s an “empath” he can read people’s emotions. He changes throughout the book meeting Eden.
I like Eden he grew up in the city above and he’s an enforcer for the city. He always had his doubt for how the policy of the world works. He struggles with his sexuality till he met Micah in a dirty den bar.
2 people from 2 different world collide together and fight for justice in which their world has long forgotten. They lose things throughout the book and trust me it was an adventure and now to book 2. Hope u guys give this book a chance.
I’ve been putting this book in the back burner for quite some time. The beginning was so confusing because so many things were happening and didn’t realize this book was a dystopian book which is even more amazing cause there is literally not many m/m romance books that are.
The beginning was boring and if u get through to half way of the book it gets so good and definitely worth the read to the point I couldn’t put down the book or while I’m doing errands I’m thinking about what’s going to happen next I need to know.
Summary of it is is that you meet Micah a beautiful boy who was raised underneath the city with others. Sorta like hunger games kind of thing where the people above be living rich while those below are poor. Micah is troubled and different from others he’s an “empath” he can read people’s emotions. He changes throughout the book meeting Eden.
I like Eden he grew up in the city above and he’s an enforcer for the city. He always had his doubt for how the policy of the world works. He struggles with his sexuality till he met Micah in a dirty den bar.
2 people from 2 different world collide together and fight for justice in which their world has long forgotten. They lose things throughout the book and trust me it was an adventure and now to book 2. Hope u guys give this book a chance.
April 27, 2023
3.5 stars
Dystopian isn’t normally a go-to genre for me but this one was interesting! The world was unique and had a setup I haven’t seen before. It pulled inspiration from a few mythologies (greek names I see you) but felt like it stood well on it’s own.
I also love a good star-crossed lovers romance and this definitely fit the bill. The pacing was solid and I felt like I was moving through the story at a good speed that kept me hooked.
There were a few parts that fell a little flat for me which I think had mostly to do with this being one of the author’s first (if not THE first) novels.
Although the world setup was unique it felt like our introduction to it was just the author telling us how the structure worked and the problems with it instead of showing us through situations.
The two opposing forces also felt very black and white / good vs. evil and I wish it was a little more morally gray or complex in terms of different character’s motivations. The “bad guy” side just felt like pure evil with no redeeming qualities.
The glimpses we got of the supernatural side of this universe do have me intrigued to learn more and I’m already suspicious of the parentage of certain characters, but we’ll see how that all plays out.
Hellie is definitely an author I’ll continue to keep my eye on!
Dystopian isn’t normally a go-to genre for me but this one was interesting! The world was unique and had a setup I haven’t seen before. It pulled inspiration from a few mythologies (greek names I see you) but felt like it stood well on it’s own.
I also love a good star-crossed lovers romance and this definitely fit the bill. The pacing was solid and I felt like I was moving through the story at a good speed that kept me hooked.
There were a few parts that fell a little flat for me which I think had mostly to do with this being one of the author’s first (if not THE first) novels.
Although the world setup was unique it felt like our introduction to it was just the author telling us how the structure worked and the problems with it instead of showing us through situations.
The two opposing forces also felt very black and white / good vs. evil and I wish it was a little more morally gray or complex in terms of different character’s motivations. The “bad guy” side just felt like pure evil with no redeeming qualities.
The glimpses we got of the supernatural side of this universe do have me intrigued to learn more and I’m already suspicious of the parentage of certain characters, but we’ll see how that all plays out.
Hellie is definitely an author I’ll continue to keep my eye on!
November 13, 2021
Micah Vehyl lives in Tartarus, an underground city where he survives as an opportunist. Homosexuality is outlawed punished by execution, but that does not prevent from seeking his satisfaction with other men. He life changes when he meets Eden Voss. The two connect in more ways than one and soon are risking everything for one more night together. Eden does have his secrets though. He is a member of the Elysian Police Force and they are charge of keeping the residents of Tartarus under control, using whatever means are necessary. Eden is willing to throw away his career and comfortable life for Micah. Unfortunately, there are many forces working against him, as well as Micah.
Garden of Eden is a true page turner. You cannot believe everything that happens and how the citizens living above Tartarus believe all the misconceptions and lies told them. There are some willing to help, but, if caught, it would mean their life. The plot is well thought out with more than one villain in the mix. You just cannot believe how evil they can be and you really want our heroes to succeed, and their allies to help save them. One thing is certain no one comes out unscathed. The next story will be even better.
Garden of Eden is a true page turner. You cannot believe everything that happens and how the citizens living above Tartarus believe all the misconceptions and lies told them. There are some willing to help, but, if caught, it would mean their life. The plot is well thought out with more than one villain in the mix. You just cannot believe how evil they can be and you really want our heroes to succeed, and their allies to help save them. One thing is certain no one comes out unscathed. The next story will be even better.
April 20, 2023
"Count down from five, Micah."
You don't need to count down to rate this one.
I am a big Hellie Heat fan, but I didn't start with her first series! Garden of Eden is an impressive debut. For me, the beginning was a tad slow--not that nothing was happening but it took me a minute to get invested in the characters and their relationship as a couple. By around 30% in, all hesitation was gone, and I was invested. Eden's POV especially captivated me. GOE is dual-POV, and it works. There's a nice balance of tension between the two narratives, and Hellie uses them to add depth to the events in the other. It adds a lot to the pacing and turns this post-apocalyptic dystopian love story into an absolute page-turner. I believe it may be shorter than her other works, but I think it works. The plot is tight with no unnecessary filler, and it doesn't feel like anything is missing from the story--aside from the answers to the plot hooks for the sequels, of course! (And boy, do I have theories.)
The new covers are also stunning and capture the series atmosphere perfectly. I probably would've upped this series on my TBR had they had these covers all along. I'm glad I was given a free review copy because now I have to pick up the next books for myself. I just have to know what happens!
You don't need to count down to rate this one.
I am a big Hellie Heat fan, but I didn't start with her first series! Garden of Eden is an impressive debut. For me, the beginning was a tad slow--not that nothing was happening but it took me a minute to get invested in the characters and their relationship as a couple. By around 30% in, all hesitation was gone, and I was invested. Eden's POV especially captivated me. GOE is dual-POV, and it works. There's a nice balance of tension between the two narratives, and Hellie uses them to add depth to the events in the other. It adds a lot to the pacing and turns this post-apocalyptic dystopian love story into an absolute page-turner. I believe it may be shorter than her other works, but I think it works. The plot is tight with no unnecessary filler, and it doesn't feel like anything is missing from the story--aside from the answers to the plot hooks for the sequels, of course! (And boy, do I have theories.)
The new covers are also stunning and capture the series atmosphere perfectly. I probably would've upped this series on my TBR had they had these covers all along. I'm glad I was given a free review copy because now I have to pick up the next books for myself. I just have to know what happens!
November 12, 2021
DARK, intriguing and well written dystopian novel.
I didn't get into the story right from the start even though it was really interesting. I just couldn't wrap my head around MCs actions and there was too many things happening all at once. Once I understood everything I couldn't put it down. The Elisyan/Tartarus world is dark, brutal and life there seems to be completely meaningless.
This is NOT a romance. The story revolves around Micah (Tartarus citizen) and Eden (Elysian Police, president's stepson) and their fight for better future.
The fact that this is a debut novel is really IMPRESSIVE - the world building here? It is WONDERFUL. Characters? Complicated, multilayered. It is impossible to just read this book without sympathizing with Tartarus citizens, with poor Yellows waiting for their extraction to the surface.
The story ended much too fast and made me CRAVE book #2. There is no cliffhanger, I would say it ends with HFN, but also on the precipice of the war with Tovar and the Church.
* I was gifted a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review *
I didn't get into the story right from the start even though it was really interesting. I just couldn't wrap my head around MCs actions and there was too many things happening all at once. Once I understood everything I couldn't put it down. The Elisyan/Tartarus world is dark, brutal and life there seems to be completely meaningless.
This is NOT a romance. The story revolves around Micah (Tartarus citizen) and Eden (Elysian Police, president's stepson) and their fight for better future.
The fact that this is a debut novel is really IMPRESSIVE - the world building here? It is WONDERFUL. Characters? Complicated, multilayered. It is impossible to just read this book without sympathizing with Tartarus citizens, with poor Yellows waiting for their extraction to the surface.
The story ended much too fast and made me CRAVE book #2. There is no cliffhanger, I would say it ends with HFN, but also on the precipice of the war with Tovar and the Church.
* I was gifted a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review *
January 26, 2021
Dystopian future with two men who are basically Romeo and Juliet in a Hunger Games world? YES PLEASE!!
Chemistry? √
Engaging plot? √
Interesting side characters w/potential for their own stories? √
HFN? √
I've had the honor of getting to know Hellie through chatting with her, and her biggest desire is to please her readers. I told her that a five star review from me means that I laughed, cried, felt gutted, connected to the characters in a memorable way, and mostly that it's a book I'll pick up again in the future, just to see my old friends again. She came very close to hitting those boxes. I rated the book at 4.5 stars. I think the next books, Tartarus Rising, is going to be a 5+ star read! I look forward to watching Hellie's star rise. I'm hitching myself to her so I, too, can enjoy the ride with her future books. You really should too.
Chemistry? √
Engaging plot? √
Interesting side characters w/potential for their own stories? √
HFN? √
I've had the honor of getting to know Hellie through chatting with her, and her biggest desire is to please her readers. I told her that a five star review from me means that I laughed, cried, felt gutted, connected to the characters in a memorable way, and mostly that it's a book I'll pick up again in the future, just to see my old friends again. She came very close to hitting those boxes. I rated the book at 4.5 stars. I think the next books, Tartarus Rising, is going to be a 5+ star read! I look forward to watching Hellie's star rise. I'm hitching myself to her so I, too, can enjoy the ride with her future books. You really should too.
May 29, 2021
This book has:
Nuanced world building that brings to life a turbulent society with deeply corrupt institutions (government, police, you name it) and distinct divides between those who are acceptable and those who are not. It’s brutal, stark, and beautifully drawn (heed the content warnings for the kinds of things that happen as part of this dystopian reality).
A romance that is against any number of rules and definitely the self interests of both people involved— banished Micah and police officer Eden have every reason, including their very lives, not to get involved, but what they have is a stronger draw even than self preservation, and I appreciated that.
This is a deeply interesting start to a series that will clearly be very easy to get caught up in— I can’t wait to see where it goes next.
*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Nuanced world building that brings to life a turbulent society with deeply corrupt institutions (government, police, you name it) and distinct divides between those who are acceptable and those who are not. It’s brutal, stark, and beautifully drawn (heed the content warnings for the kinds of things that happen as part of this dystopian reality).
A romance that is against any number of rules and definitely the self interests of both people involved— banished Micah and police officer Eden have every reason, including their very lives, not to get involved, but what they have is a stronger draw even than self preservation, and I appreciated that.
This is a deeply interesting start to a series that will clearly be very easy to get caught up in— I can’t wait to see where it goes next.
*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 17, 2023
Hellie does it again!!!
This book was so good and so exciting. A romance between two men from very different worlds. Micah is an orphan who lives a hard life in the underground Tartarus, with the only his brother as his family. Micah is clever, lithe, and a survivor living life in constant risk.
Eden is in a high position in the Elysian Police. He’s always followed the rules but there’s one he can’t: the rule against men loving other men. He’s always known where his interests lie, and he can’t help but act when he sees Micah.
There is more going on in the world of Elysian than Eden and Micah ever imagined. Their forbidden attraction is the least of their worries. The government, especially the leader of Elysian is more sinister and wicked than they could’ve imagined. What begins as liaisons in dark rooms becomes a world on the brink of war, with Eden and Micah at the center.
I cannot wait to see where this story goes!!
This book was so good and so exciting. A romance between two men from very different worlds. Micah is an orphan who lives a hard life in the underground Tartarus, with the only his brother as his family. Micah is clever, lithe, and a survivor living life in constant risk.
Eden is in a high position in the Elysian Police. He’s always followed the rules but there’s one he can’t: the rule against men loving other men. He’s always known where his interests lie, and he can’t help but act when he sees Micah.
There is more going on in the world of Elysian than Eden and Micah ever imagined. Their forbidden attraction is the least of their worries. The government, especially the leader of Elysian is more sinister and wicked than they could’ve imagined. What begins as liaisons in dark rooms becomes a world on the brink of war, with Eden and Micah at the center.
I cannot wait to see where this story goes!!
April 18, 2023
**I received a copy of this book in exchange for a review**
4.5 🌟
When it comes to MLM romance, Hellie Heat does so many things right.
Hellies other strength? World building. GOE is set in a very dangerous dystopian world and Hellie conveys this feeling of fear and dread very well. I loved the characters' personalities and conflicts very much, and there were many lovable and interesting side characters to boot. The other aspect of this book that I loved was the villain. He's a BASTARD. He's evil and he's evil with purpose. I absolutely cannot wait to dive into the rest of the series to see how Micah and Edens journey pans out.
4.5 🌟
When it comes to MLM romance, Hellie Heat does so many things right.
Hellies other strength? World building. GOE is set in a very dangerous dystopian world and Hellie conveys this feeling of fear and dread very well. I loved the characters' personalities and conflicts very much, and there were many lovable and interesting side characters to boot. The other aspect of this book that I loved was the villain. He's a BASTARD. He's evil and he's evil with purpose. I absolutely cannot wait to dive into the rest of the series to see how Micah and Edens journey pans out.
June 5, 2021
GREAT READ
This book was very enjoyable! Although the book starts off quick, the chemistry between the main characters grow. At first it is a physical attraction, but it develops into something more deeply rooted in affection as Micah and Eden continue to take risks for each other. Admittedly, this is my first book that I’ve read detailing gay male sex. It is done so well and I awaited every scene between the two main characters. I also love the importance of small people who come into it later on. It is such a good and well thought out concept. Would definitely recommend!
This book was very enjoyable! Although the book starts off quick, the chemistry between the main characters grow. At first it is a physical attraction, but it develops into something more deeply rooted in affection as Micah and Eden continue to take risks for each other. Admittedly, this is my first book that I’ve read detailing gay male sex. It is done so well and I awaited every scene between the two main characters. I also love the importance of small people who come into it later on. It is such a good and well thought out concept. Would definitely recommend!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews