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The Path of Temptation #4
The Ways We Betray
To protect those who matter most, we will betray others in ways we never expected.
This is supposed to be a good year. With a new set of instructors - and ones I know well - I'm sure it will be. For once, things are finally starting to go my way. My mentors are proud, my family is closer than ever before, and I am happy.
Unfortunately, the gods are tired of waiting. Every day, Zeal grows stronger, but Ambition, Inspiration, Perception, Compassion, and Intuition don't. They're fading, with no hope in sight.
Except me.
Piece by piece, my god has built me up, given me "weapons" to use, and made me into the kind of woman I can be proud of. He calls me his partner and that isn't an empty title. It means more than just serving him. I can tell by the longing in his divine eyes.
My success doesn't go unnoticed, though. My haters want to destroy me, but let them try. Petty bullying is too childish for me to worry about. With so many priests able to see the God of Temptation now, I no longer care who likes me and who doesn't.
And that's my biggest mistake.
Because my god doesn't run this temple. He doesn't make the rules. With a single signed paper, I'm no longer as safe as I thought. Friends are going to be betrayed. Lovers will suffer. Somehow, I have to fix this.
I am the Priestess of Temptation, Zeal's chosen.
Someone is going to be punished.
I almost hope it's me.
Possible Triggers: Discussions of rape and assault, domestic violence, bullying, harassment, consensual pain and battery, shaming, sexual sadism, minor violence, and more adult themes.
The Path of Temptation series features a strong woman and the men who love her. Graphic language, adult situations, and potentially triggering violence that are suitable for a mature audience are included.
This is a love story, but sometimes love comes with a price.
This is supposed to be a good year. With a new set of instructors - and ones I know well - I'm sure it will be. For once, things are finally starting to go my way. My mentors are proud, my family is closer than ever before, and I am happy.
Unfortunately, the gods are tired of waiting. Every day, Zeal grows stronger, but Ambition, Inspiration, Perception, Compassion, and Intuition don't. They're fading, with no hope in sight.
Except me.
Piece by piece, my god has built me up, given me "weapons" to use, and made me into the kind of woman I can be proud of. He calls me his partner and that isn't an empty title. It means more than just serving him. I can tell by the longing in his divine eyes.
My success doesn't go unnoticed, though. My haters want to destroy me, but let them try. Petty bullying is too childish for me to worry about. With so many priests able to see the God of Temptation now, I no longer care who likes me and who doesn't.
And that's my biggest mistake.
Because my god doesn't run this temple. He doesn't make the rules. With a single signed paper, I'm no longer as safe as I thought. Friends are going to be betrayed. Lovers will suffer. Somehow, I have to fix this.
I am the Priestess of Temptation, Zeal's chosen.
Someone is going to be punished.
I almost hope it's me.
Possible Triggers: Discussions of rape and assault, domestic violence, bullying, harassment, consensual pain and battery, shaming, sexual sadism, minor violence, and more adult themes.
The Path of Temptation series features a strong woman and the men who love her. Graphic language, adult situations, and potentially triggering violence that are suitable for a mature audience are included.
This is a love story, but sometimes love comes with a price.
652 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 8, 2021
341 people are currently reading
416 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
December 7, 2021
oh. my. zeal.
listen, i came straight to goodreads after flipping through the last page of The Ways We Betray and having my mouth drop open in complete shock because the book was over. i didn't want it to end. i hoped it wouldn't end, even though this book wasn't my favorite out of the series for a few reasons, which i'll get into in a second.
i'd like to start of this review by explicitly stating that this series is one, if not the, best reverse harem series i've ever read. Hannaford Prep will always hold an extremely special place in my heart, having been the first true dark RH book i had ever read with a complete morally-grey badass heroine.
but this. freaking. series.
it's the constant attention to detail. the way Hadley curves the love stories around the little things rather than large, boasting displays of romance. the characters are so real, so heartbreakingly beautiful, so fervent in their love and so free in their passion that you, as the reader, can't help but root for them. the continous theme of family, of love, of communication between partners, of accepting your mistakes and working towards them together because they are weaker apart - all of that and more make this series and this book oh-so-close to my soul. these moments, which by no means did Hadley spare, are what made this and her previous books so special.
nonetheless, I would like to touch base on a few other points. certain situations were not written, from a personal standpoint, they should've been written, and it especially put me off reading near the end of the novel. that, however, is a personal preference, and so is my slight aversion to Hadley's writing style. i'm fairly certain that this series is written some time in the late 19th to early 20th century, and that yes, people spoke differently in comparison to modern times. i think what made the writing so off-putting - especially in this book - was how at some points it felt like the scene was written from someone born in the 21st century and vice versa. Hadley has had this problem a few times before in some of her earlier novels but i think this in combination with some purple prose is the true driving force behind me not being able to truly connect with this particular novel. my perspective might change after a reread, so i'll make sure to update this review in case my opinion of this novel does change.
there were also a few grammatical and general editorial errors i caught that i usually don't see in most of Hadley's novels. perhaps they were simply mistakes on her editor's part or issues they simply didn't see, but whatever reason it might be, there are not nearly enough errors to take away from the beauty of Hadley's writing.
i also wish that more happened in this novel. i won't go into detail so i can keep this review as spoiler-free as possible, but given the title and the general direction we know the novels are pushing towards, i was expecting this story to be more eventful. the last book and a half or so were fast-paced and full to the brim of either constant action or constant stress, which added to the building tension. while those were long, i truly felt the length of the novel here, yet i was too invested in the characters to pull away even though the plot seemed slightly monotonous. i also wish there were more interactions in the political and high-society setting. knowing that Nari and Ela have learnt how to navigate social situations, developed the ability to think quickly on their feet, and/or say exactly the right thing to put a person at ease, i would've liked to see more of this ability displayed as the novel went on.
reminder: this is all my personal preference. as a person who is extremely impatient and can barely keep herself from pressing the forward button in action movies to see what happens next, you can imagine how difficult it is for me to read a 600+ page novel, written beautifully and eloquently, filled with sweet, happy, almost domestic scenes with a tinge of darkness? my poor, cynical little heart knows the other shoe is about to drop, but Hadley's overextended use of holding out the tension for so long made it lose a large amount of its effect.
perhaps this was Hadley's intention. much of the way this book is set up is as "the calm before the storm." things are described as wonderful in comparison to their last initiate year, everything is optimistic - then something or someone else falls apart around them and they grow even closer to take more comfort in each others' arms as the lines between their relationships blur. perhaps Hadley is using this book to really show main and secondary character growth, not that she doesn't do enough of it in her "regular" novels. perhaps Hadley is playing around with pacing and suspense and is looking for her sweet spot. perhaps, it's all three of these things and more.
it's also important to remember the contradiction from this novel to the last one. it's almost a complete 180 degree turn - from so hectic that some readers felt that it was too much to very slow-moving and bittersweet. i think it's something to keep in mind when reading, but i'd also love to hear your thoughts and if you have any other reasons to believe Hadley chose to write The Ways We Betray this way. feel free to message me or comment.
all of these things aside, i still fucking loved this book. zeal's growth as a god? scrumptious. the way anver slowly is pulling out of his toxic cycle of self-hate and stopping his fear of rejection and unwantedness? pulled at my heartstrings and really elevated his character, in my point of view. maela's growth and ascension as a female in an almost entirely male-dominated society that treats women like they were to be used and thrown away in all aspects? probably one of my favorite parts of the book, along with her taking a stand on many issues that don't affect her but do mess with those she considers family. ela's acceptance and continued, complete control over his "monster"? hell. yes. give me it all, baby.
nari wasn't really the true star of this novel for me, at least not like the last book, even though i'm a cisgender heterosexual female who would be the first in line to date that woman if she was real (come on, don't lie to me, I think we all would.) i can't exactly pinpoint who at this exact moment is my favorite - evidenced by my slight fangirling in the paragraph above - but what i can say is that i have a feeling this book is going to be the most controversial out of the four, simply because of it's "filler-like" plot movement and tension.
if you've made it this far, thank you for taking the time to read this review. tt means a lot to me that you were interested enough in my casual opinion of this story to continue reading. love you all, please stay safe, happy, and healthy.
listen, i came straight to goodreads after flipping through the last page of The Ways We Betray and having my mouth drop open in complete shock because the book was over. i didn't want it to end. i hoped it wouldn't end, even though this book wasn't my favorite out of the series for a few reasons, which i'll get into in a second.
i'd like to start of this review by explicitly stating that this series is one, if not the, best reverse harem series i've ever read. Hannaford Prep will always hold an extremely special place in my heart, having been the first true dark RH book i had ever read with a complete morally-grey badass heroine.
but this. freaking. series.
it's the constant attention to detail. the way Hadley curves the love stories around the little things rather than large, boasting displays of romance. the characters are so real, so heartbreakingly beautiful, so fervent in their love and so free in their passion that you, as the reader, can't help but root for them. the continous theme of family, of love, of communication between partners, of accepting your mistakes and working towards them together because they are weaker apart - all of that and more make this series and this book oh-so-close to my soul. these moments, which by no means did Hadley spare, are what made this and her previous books so special.
nonetheless, I would like to touch base on a few other points. certain situations were not written, from a personal standpoint, they should've been written, and it especially put me off reading near the end of the novel. that, however, is a personal preference, and so is my slight aversion to Hadley's writing style. i'm fairly certain that this series is written some time in the late 19th to early 20th century, and that yes, people spoke differently in comparison to modern times. i think what made the writing so off-putting - especially in this book - was how at some points it felt like the scene was written from someone born in the 21st century and vice versa. Hadley has had this problem a few times before in some of her earlier novels but i think this in combination with some purple prose is the true driving force behind me not being able to truly connect with this particular novel. my perspective might change after a reread, so i'll make sure to update this review in case my opinion of this novel does change.
there were also a few grammatical and general editorial errors i caught that i usually don't see in most of Hadley's novels. perhaps they were simply mistakes on her editor's part or issues they simply didn't see, but whatever reason it might be, there are not nearly enough errors to take away from the beauty of Hadley's writing.
i also wish that more happened in this novel. i won't go into detail so i can keep this review as spoiler-free as possible, but given the title and the general direction we know the novels are pushing towards, i was expecting this story to be more eventful. the last book and a half or so were fast-paced and full to the brim of either constant action or constant stress, which added to the building tension. while those were long, i truly felt the length of the novel here, yet i was too invested in the characters to pull away even though the plot seemed slightly monotonous. i also wish there were more interactions in the political and high-society setting. knowing that Nari and Ela have learnt how to navigate social situations, developed the ability to think quickly on their feet, and/or say exactly the right thing to put a person at ease, i would've liked to see more of this ability displayed as the novel went on.
reminder: this is all my personal preference. as a person who is extremely impatient and can barely keep herself from pressing the forward button in action movies to see what happens next, you can imagine how difficult it is for me to read a 600+ page novel, written beautifully and eloquently, filled with sweet, happy, almost domestic scenes with a tinge of darkness? my poor, cynical little heart knows the other shoe is about to drop, but Hadley's overextended use of holding out the tension for so long made it lose a large amount of its effect.
perhaps this was Hadley's intention. much of the way this book is set up is as "the calm before the storm." things are described as wonderful in comparison to their last initiate year, everything is optimistic - then something or someone else falls apart around them and they grow even closer to take more comfort in each others' arms as the lines between their relationships blur. perhaps Hadley is using this book to really show main and secondary character growth, not that she doesn't do enough of it in her "regular" novels. perhaps Hadley is playing around with pacing and suspense and is looking for her sweet spot. perhaps, it's all three of these things and more.
it's also important to remember the contradiction from this novel to the last one. it's almost a complete 180 degree turn - from so hectic that some readers felt that it was too much to very slow-moving and bittersweet. i think it's something to keep in mind when reading, but i'd also love to hear your thoughts and if you have any other reasons to believe Hadley chose to write The Ways We Betray this way. feel free to message me or comment.
all of these things aside, i still fucking loved this book. zeal's growth as a god? scrumptious. the way anver slowly is pulling out of his toxic cycle of self-hate and stopping his fear of rejection and unwantedness? pulled at my heartstrings and really elevated his character, in my point of view. maela's growth and ascension as a female in an almost entirely male-dominated society that treats women like they were to be used and thrown away in all aspects? probably one of my favorite parts of the book, along with her taking a stand on many issues that don't affect her but do mess with those she considers family. ela's acceptance and continued, complete control over his "monster"? hell. yes. give me it all, baby.
nari wasn't really the true star of this novel for me, at least not like the last book, even though i'm a cisgender heterosexual female who would be the first in line to date that woman if she was real (come on, don't lie to me, I think we all would.) i can't exactly pinpoint who at this exact moment is my favorite - evidenced by my slight fangirling in the paragraph above - but what i can say is that i have a feeling this book is going to be the most controversial out of the four, simply because of it's "filler-like" plot movement and tension.
if you've made it this far, thank you for taking the time to read this review. tt means a lot to me that you were interested enough in my casual opinion of this story to continue reading. love you all, please stay safe, happy, and healthy.
August 14, 2022
Potential for DNF. The problems with this series are getting worse, not better.
I'm on page 316 and my mind is mushy with all the unnecessary words! The neverending dialogue! The neverending assurances that so-and-so has nothing to worry about because love! And Zeal's chosen! And family! Guys, why are you beating the same dead horses?
Here's the thing: you aren't locked into "FudgedUp" until enough people say they love you, and then magically unlock "OKAllBetter". Stuff happens in between. But you can acknowledge progress WITHOUT including the therapy session in the book! You can write a character observing another character's actions, and how they aren't reacting how they would have in the past, and how that's a good thing. And then STOP. Because honestly, as a reader, that's enough to show growth without belaboring the point and drowning the plot with unnecessary words. Because the plot..... I'm not sure what it is right now.
Did I mention I'm on page 316??? I should know what the plot is! But these characters are not REALLY being challenged. The usual suspects try to pick on them and get brushed off, but there's no actual conflict in this book. Even the intimate scenes can't save this one. Unfortunately, I'm bored while reading this. Getting to the end will be hard.
I'm on page 316 and my mind is mushy with all the unnecessary words! The neverending dialogue! The neverending assurances that so-and-so has nothing to worry about because love! And Zeal's chosen! And family! Guys, why are you beating the same dead horses?
Here's the thing: you aren't locked into "FudgedUp" until enough people say they love you, and then magically unlock "OKAllBetter". Stuff happens in between. But you can acknowledge progress WITHOUT including the therapy session in the book! You can write a character observing another character's actions, and how they aren't reacting how they would have in the past, and how that's a good thing. And then STOP. Because honestly, as a reader, that's enough to show growth without belaboring the point and drowning the plot with unnecessary words. Because the plot..... I'm not sure what it is right now.
Did I mention I'm on page 316??? I should know what the plot is! But these characters are not REALLY being challenged. The usual suspects try to pick on them and get brushed off, but there's no actual conflict in this book. Even the intimate scenes can't save this one. Unfortunately, I'm bored while reading this. Getting to the end will be hard.
January 7, 2023
Hands down one of the best series
As I mentioned in the title, this is hands down one of the best series I've read in my life and I've read A LOT of them.
This is set in an amazing world and has some amazing characters as well as the best supporting characters. Auryn again leaves us with a great hook into the next book, as many things have yet to resolve and our interest in others is piqued and fed into. Not in a way that it's unbearable mind you, because I find myself guessing, spinning theories with the information I've gathered until now. This is one of these series that I will never get bored of reading because I will discover so many new things at every read.
As I mentioned in the title, this is hands down one of the best series I've read in my life and I've read A LOT of them.
This is set in an amazing world and has some amazing characters as well as the best supporting characters. Auryn again leaves us with a great hook into the next book, as many things have yet to resolve and our interest in others is piqued and fed into. Not in a way that it's unbearable mind you, because I find myself guessing, spinning theories with the information I've gathered until now. This is one of these series that I will never get bored of reading because I will discover so many new things at every read.
October 18, 2021
Zeal save me!
I am more tensed as to what I'll do after the 5th book!
I wish I had at least one thing bad to say about this book😌
People, fellow fans, readers I need you to survive these 2 months...and then the aimless life after I'll have no more of Nari, Ela, Talin, Wraythe, Anver, Maela, Yamina, Amerlee, Jamik, Saval, Peyron, Shalsa, Irila, Zeal, Merci, Savi, Charishma, Bode, Will.....all of them!
What do I do!!
I am more tensed as to what I'll do after the 5th book!
I wish I had at least one thing bad to say about this book😌
People, fellow fans, readers I need you to survive these 2 months...and then the aimless life after I'll have no more of Nari, Ela, Talin, Wraythe, Anver, Maela, Yamina, Amerlee, Jamik, Saval, Peyron, Shalsa, Irila, Zeal, Merci, Savi, Charishma, Bode, Will.....all of them!
What do I do!!
August 3, 2024
Such a great series!!
featured
January 21, 2025Anver from The Path of Temptation is asexual!
https://www.tumblr.com/aspeccharacter...
https://www.tumblr.com/aspeccharacter...
October 8, 2021
Fantastic!!
This is the 4th book in The Path of Temptation series and it just keeps getting better. So much happened and many questions were answered but there is still so much to look forward to in the last book.
Nari continues to grow and get stronger. I love how she is so strong but still is vulnerable and needs the guys support.
Zeal just continues to be supportive and I love how he is getting closer to the group.
I definitely recommend this series and can’t wait for the next book!
This is the 4th book in The Path of Temptation series and it just keeps getting better. So much happened and many questions were answered but there is still so much to look forward to in the last book.
Nari continues to grow and get stronger. I love how she is so strong but still is vulnerable and needs the guys support.
Zeal just continues to be supportive and I love how he is getting closer to the group.
I definitely recommend this series and can’t wait for the next book!
August 2, 2022
Further thoughts: I realize what I am missing in this series- humor. It would take this to another level, give it that extra spark...
4 stars for writing long, interesting stories that hook me but don't make me feel happy about it.
Its weird, I should be really feeling this one but I just can't seem to connect. I am probably going to stop here since I know they all get an HEA but have more troubles to deal with along the way.
It is an interesting topic, characters, world- but these are LOOONG books and my interest starts to wane as I dream of other stories that are short and can grab me. This one I just feel like it has its hooks in me and I can't get away!
Nari and her boys are working things out with Anver; Zeal becomes their "lover"; scandal at the Baron's house and their school year was the best yet. yay.
4 stars for writing long, interesting stories that hook me but don't make me feel happy about it.
Its weird, I should be really feeling this one but I just can't seem to connect. I am probably going to stop here since I know they all get an HEA but have more troubles to deal with along the way.
It is an interesting topic, characters, world- but these are LOOONG books and my interest starts to wane as I dream of other stories that are short and can grab me. This one I just feel like it has its hooks in me and I can't get away!
Nari and her boys are working things out with Anver; Zeal becomes their "lover"; scandal at the Baron's house and their school year was the best yet. yay.
August 27, 2024
August 2024
Kindle edition
I got to 59% when they thought Nari being in the Meala and the high priest was a good idea. One weekend of isekai later and back to it. It wasn't as bad as I thought. Thanks to the blurb and how good things were, it felt like a lot of foreshadowing. Instead, it was predictably Tath back to do what he promised and the bully twins being cannon fodder to the point its a little sad. Bonds getting stronger. Friends increasing, Tath getting broken and the gods getting stronger. Looking forward to the next one.
Kindle edition
I got to 59% when they thought Nari being in the Meala and the high priest was a good idea. One weekend of isekai later and back to it. It wasn't as bad as I thought. Thanks to the blurb and how good things were, it felt like a lot of foreshadowing. Instead, it was predictably Tath back to do what he promised and the bully twins being cannon fodder to the point its a little sad. Bonds getting stronger. Friends increasing, Tath getting broken and the gods getting stronger. Looking forward to the next one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 17, 2022
At The End...
So, I figured instead of trying to review each book of this series I would just compile all my thoughts, emotional outbursts, and critiques until the very last book!!
Happy Reading Y'all! 😘
So, I figured instead of trying to review each book of this series I would just compile all my thoughts, emotional outbursts, and critiques until the very last book!!
Happy Reading Y'all! 😘
April 22, 2025
I knocked a full star off because this book did *not* need to be 620 pages long!
October 15, 2021
Best birthday present!
Came out just in time for my birthday, read it in a day. This series has to be one of my favourites ever -rivalled only by Rise of the Iliri, funnily enough.
I would pay stupid money for a sapphic spin off starring everyone’s favourite baroness, but I know that Auryn doesn’t usually write FF, so I’ll just have to imagine it!
Came out just in time for my birthday, read it in a day. This series has to be one of my favourites ever -rivalled only by Rise of the Iliri, funnily enough.
I would pay stupid money for a sapphic spin off starring everyone’s favourite baroness, but I know that Auryn doesn’t usually write FF, so I’ll just have to imagine it!
October 26, 2021
My only problem is more of a personal preference than a problem. I don't like that she's not the only one with all 5 lace. I liked that she was unique I know she doesn't wanna be but she was and now she's not, the boys also have all 5, the boys are also in a relationship with their god. It's something this author has a habit of doing so I should have seen it coming but still just a pet peeve. Other than this I loved this book, I love these characters and watching them grow as people and as couples. I love the dynamics of the relationships and how even though they are all "together" they still have individual bonds. Can't wait for more!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 13, 2021
My life can be measured in the drawn-out moments of Auryn Hadley's publication schedule for this series. Like, months of agony and terrible longing... followed by a flurry of reading, late into the night, devouring every scrap she throws, desperate to reach the last page and devastated when I do.
Not every reader loves every book. But these? Are my crack. What can do until #5 comes out? Weep? Rend my clothing?
Damn it. I'll write another one of my own books and sulk.
10/10 would recommend if you've read the others and you like the thought of effing a god. #whichIdo
Not every reader loves every book. But these? Are my crack. What can do until #5 comes out? Weep? Rend my clothing?
Damn it. I'll write another one of my own books and sulk.
10/10 would recommend if you've read the others and you like the thought of effing a god. #whichIdo
October 31, 2021
What is there not to say about this phenomenal series. I continue to fall harder in love with this world and characters. I can never pick a favorite character since it changes from book to book and it absolutely has to do with Auryn’s amazing writing. In each book Auryn will show the strengths and weaknesses of the characters but there will always be that one main character in each book that absolutely glows.
In this book it was completely Eladel for me and I honestly loved seeing his confidence grow. He always had that swagger to him but he was so worried he was going to hurt the people he loved. This book really let his character shine and he learned to have faith in himself.
Nari really exuded fearlessness. She has such an air of self confidence that I wish to emulate. Don’t get me wrong, she will always fear losing her family but trusts in the god of Temptation to keep his promise. She has this inner strength that impresses me more and more in each book. She has become an all time favorite heroine of mine.
Once again though it was the family and friendship aspect of this book that made my heart happy. There are hard times and tribulations but when you have confidence in the people around you to have your back, you can conquer anything.
This series is one of my top reads of this year and I can’t recommend it enough. This series is the best kind of addicting. I can’t wait for the next book.
In this book it was completely Eladel for me and I honestly loved seeing his confidence grow. He always had that swagger to him but he was so worried he was going to hurt the people he loved. This book really let his character shine and he learned to have faith in himself.
Nari really exuded fearlessness. She has such an air of self confidence that I wish to emulate. Don’t get me wrong, she will always fear losing her family but trusts in the god of Temptation to keep his promise. She has this inner strength that impresses me more and more in each book. She has become an all time favorite heroine of mine.
Once again though it was the family and friendship aspect of this book that made my heart happy. There are hard times and tribulations but when you have confidence in the people around you to have your back, you can conquer anything.
This series is one of my top reads of this year and I can’t recommend it enough. This series is the best kind of addicting. I can’t wait for the next book.
April 2, 2025
This book is the longest in the series, but weirdly, it didn't feel like it. We no longer have to endure endless repetitions of the same thoughts/conversations. This book wasn't so much about the plot moving forward, as it was about character growth and simple, cute domesticity.
The spice keeps coming as well. And it's wonderfully diverse. Hot, sweet, group, couples. Some rh books have the problem of randomly adding sex scenes left and right at times that make no sense in refards to the characters, story ot simple logic. This series definitely doesn't suffer that flaw. It all feels natural. Maybe that's the one plus of the length and number of these books. We get the day to day even when nothing big happens. They study, they are tired after a long day, they simply talk and go to sleep cuddling. It's gives the romance and intimacy to make you really feel the hot moments.
Also, a moment of appreciation for choosing tea as the preferred beverage for most of the characters and making it subtle. I can't understand why so many books have the main characters obsessed with coffee - they constantly make a big deal about drinking it, and they go on and on about how they can't function without it. Is this so annoying just for me?
Anyway... I can't wait to see where the story is going. Hopefully, we'll get a little more action in the next book.
The spice keeps coming as well. And it's wonderfully diverse. Hot, sweet, group, couples. Some rh books have the problem of randomly adding sex scenes left and right at times that make no sense in refards to the characters, story ot simple logic. This series definitely doesn't suffer that flaw. It all feels natural. Maybe that's the one plus of the length and number of these books. We get the day to day even when nothing big happens. They study, they are tired after a long day, they simply talk and go to sleep cuddling. It's gives the romance and intimacy to make you really feel the hot moments.
Also, a moment of appreciation for choosing tea as the preferred beverage for most of the characters and making it subtle. I can't understand why so many books have the main characters obsessed with coffee - they constantly make a big deal about drinking it, and they go on and on about how they can't function without it. Is this so annoying just for me?
Anyway... I can't wait to see where the story is going. Hopefully, we'll get a little more action in the next book.
October 19, 2021
Such a tempting series...
I adore this series, an open minded, openly sexual saga with gods blossoming into being based on belief. This one ends on a dreadful cliffhanger, that the next book will be the lsst in the series, I don't want to leave these characters; if I believe enough will the tale continue?
On the sexuality, since it's such a huge part of the book. Being open minded is a must, as desires range from ace to all. There are some scenes that are pretty intense, and one I'd consider as a heavy trigger, even though consent is technically given.
Zeal shares his thoughts here:
"Anver, I often collect those who don't fit the standard idea of sexuality. Too much, too varied, or even too little. It all falls under my power, because your temptation is to be loved for who you are. It's no more or less valid than Ela's desire to hurt someone or Nari's need to never be left again."
The overriding theme in all of this author's work is that you can, and often do, make your own family. It echoes as well in this one, beautifully so.
I adore this series, an open minded, openly sexual saga with gods blossoming into being based on belief. This one ends on a dreadful cliffhanger, that the next book will be the lsst in the series, I don't want to leave these characters; if I believe enough will the tale continue?
On the sexuality, since it's such a huge part of the book. Being open minded is a must, as desires range from ace to all. There are some scenes that are pretty intense, and one I'd consider as a heavy trigger, even though consent is technically given.
Zeal shares his thoughts here:
"Anver, I often collect those who don't fit the standard idea of sexuality. Too much, too varied, or even too little. It all falls under my power, because your temptation is to be loved for who you are. It's no more or less valid than Ela's desire to hurt someone or Nari's need to never be left again."
The overriding theme in all of this author's work is that you can, and often do, make your own family. It echoes as well in this one, beautifully so.
October 13, 2021
Wow…this was epic
Hmmm. This was good. It felt like it lagged in some areas, but it definitely was good and we got several plot points moved along and appearances by the other gods!
I feel like ultimately 4 stars is not being generous but firmly appropriate. The story SHINED. It wasn’t preachy and heavy handed like how I often compared it to the Dark Orchid series. Here we got to see different nuances and it was merely shown that certain things aren’t as taboo as we’ve been led to believe. There were no lectures or long winded indignant scoffing at how ignorant the masses are because they had a different upbringing. There was less and more of Zeal, which was amazing, because these characters needed to grow and not be led.
I’m sincerely looking forward to the conclusion of this series and watching the inevitable down fall of the High Priest.
Hmmm. This was good. It felt like it lagged in some areas, but it definitely was good and we got several plot points moved along and appearances by the other gods!
I feel like ultimately 4 stars is not being generous but firmly appropriate. The story SHINED. It wasn’t preachy and heavy handed like how I often compared it to the Dark Orchid series. Here we got to see different nuances and it was merely shown that certain things aren’t as taboo as we’ve been led to believe. There were no lectures or long winded indignant scoffing at how ignorant the masses are because they had a different upbringing. There was less and more of Zeal, which was amazing, because these characters needed to grow and not be led.
I’m sincerely looking forward to the conclusion of this series and watching the inevitable down fall of the High Priest.
October 8, 2021
Another 600+ pages of awesome
In a truly brilliant way this book loses nothing of the character of books 1-3 but Nari and her guys (and god) face entirely different challenges. It could have become repetitive but instead is new and addictive. Not that I had any doubt in the phenomenal writing of Auryn Hadley.
My only complaint is that she’s ruined me for a large number of other authors. They just pale in comparison. (Yes, I’m fangirlling a little. Maybe a lot. Definitely.)
Oh, and there’s no teaser even though it says there’s a teaser and December 17th is entirely too far away for book 5!
In a truly brilliant way this book loses nothing of the character of books 1-3 but Nari and her guys (and god) face entirely different challenges. It could have become repetitive but instead is new and addictive. Not that I had any doubt in the phenomenal writing of Auryn Hadley.
My only complaint is that she’s ruined me for a large number of other authors. They just pale in comparison. (Yes, I’m fangirlling a little. Maybe a lot. Definitely.)
Oh, and there’s no teaser even though it says there’s a teaser and December 17th is entirely too far away for book 5!
January 16, 2023
Nari
Still going fast
Still loving every word
And looking forward to the next one
Getting a bit of anxiety too since I am closer to the lastbook and omg I don't want this to end
I do not want to give up this brilliant work of art and just getting lost in this world that is so much better then real life
That is what good books do...make you forget
What insanely good books do is making You not wanting them to finish and giving up
These are....insanely great...books
Absolutely recommended
Still going fast
Still loving every word
And looking forward to the next one
Getting a bit of anxiety too since I am closer to the lastbook and omg I don't want this to end
I do not want to give up this brilliant work of art and just getting lost in this world that is so much better then real life
That is what good books do...make you forget
What insanely good books do is making You not wanting them to finish and giving up
These are....insanely great...books
Absolutely recommended
June 11, 2023
So good
This series just keeps getting better.
It is a hefty steak to sink your teeth into. It is a full bodied glass of wine that makes you moan with the first mouthful. I can't get enough. There is just so much. It doesn't focus on the pissy little bits which makes a long book boring. It skips to the good parts every time and is keeping me on the edge of my seat. Character development is absolutely amazing. I'm off to see if there are hard copies because this is a series that needs rereading
This series just keeps getting better.
It is a hefty steak to sink your teeth into. It is a full bodied glass of wine that makes you moan with the first mouthful. I can't get enough. There is just so much. It doesn't focus on the pissy little bits which makes a long book boring. It skips to the good parts every time and is keeping me on the edge of my seat. Character development is absolutely amazing. I'm off to see if there are hard copies because this is a series that needs rereading
October 10, 2021
Wonderful as always
Honestly this series could go on for years and I would be happy to patiently wait for every book. Absolutely my favorite series. This is the only reverse harem where I haven’t been able to pick a favorite. The author has an amazing way of making all the main characters beautifully unique, intriguing and in depth. I never feel like the character blend together or that the story gets dull at any point. So very grateful to have found this series.
Honestly this series could go on for years and I would be happy to patiently wait for every book. Absolutely my favorite series. This is the only reverse harem where I haven’t been able to pick a favorite. The author has an amazing way of making all the main characters beautifully unique, intriguing and in depth. I never feel like the character blend together or that the story gets dull at any point. So very grateful to have found this series.
October 12, 2021
Holy Hotness
This book totally revved up the hotness factor. We get our favorite monster in Ela, and “watching” Nari encourage his wicked is my favorite thing ever. Things around the temple are getting complicated, but our favorites are navigating each thing like bada**es. It’s hard to believe the next one is the final one. This series has quickly become one of my favorites ever! I can’t wait to see what happens!
This book totally revved up the hotness factor. We get our favorite monster in Ela, and “watching” Nari encourage his wicked is my favorite thing ever. Things around the temple are getting complicated, but our favorites are navigating each thing like bada**es. It’s hard to believe the next one is the final one. This series has quickly become one of my favorites ever! I can’t wait to see what happens!
October 13, 2021
Awesome
Every time I think Auryn's writing can't get any better, she proves me wrong. This book is no exception.
Exquisitely crafted, deep, powerful and suspenseful, book 4 will keep you just as enthralled as book 1.
More and more of late I'm finding myself abandoning a series by book 3. I'm groaning because I have to wait 2 months for the next book. Auryn never disappoints.
Every time I think Auryn's writing can't get any better, she proves me wrong. This book is no exception.
Exquisitely crafted, deep, powerful and suspenseful, book 4 will keep you just as enthralled as book 1.
More and more of late I'm finding myself abandoning a series by book 3. I'm groaning because I have to wait 2 months for the next book. Auryn never disappoints.
October 18, 2021
Amazing Series
Once again I’m left with the desire to find out what these beautiful priests and priestess will do next. I love how there’s conflict and issues that they overcome so well and that I am not left bereft for long until they’re on top again. I am a sucker for the m/m moments and this series is jammed packed with them . Holy Hotness Gods and Godesses and sexy times, oh my!
Once again I’m left with the desire to find out what these beautiful priests and priestess will do next. I love how there’s conflict and issues that they overcome so well and that I am not left bereft for long until they’re on top again. I am a sucker for the m/m moments and this series is jammed packed with them . Holy Hotness Gods and Godesses and sexy times, oh my!
October 25, 2021
Wow, brutal and powerful!
Couldn't put it down I absolutely love this series. School and sessions are easier for them this year. From book 3 and how hard it was and how they had to fight for everything and dive deep into Ela's darkness, this book has more happiness and things were going pretty good for all of the Gods. Then it turns to brutality, holy wow, so crazy and powerful. I can't wait for the final book.
Couldn't put it down I absolutely love this series. School and sessions are easier for them this year. From book 3 and how hard it was and how they had to fight for everything and dive deep into Ela's darkness, this book has more happiness and things were going pretty good for all of the Gods. Then it turns to brutality, holy wow, so crazy and powerful. I can't wait for the final book.
October 9, 2021
Love Nari and her Guys
Auryn is such a master storyteller. As with the other books in this series, there are hot, steamy scenes, but it is held together by a string storyline. I find myself cheering on Zeal's Chosen as they meet struggles head on and grow closer together. Definitely a series I will read over and over.
Auryn is such a master storyteller. As with the other books in this series, there are hot, steamy scenes, but it is held together by a string storyline. I find myself cheering on Zeal's Chosen as they meet struggles head on and grow closer together. Definitely a series I will read over and over.
October 13, 2021
best world building ever!!
I love to read but I am also a binge reader. To me that means I read books to escape but do not often get fully lost in the stories. Then Auryn comes along with a world like this!? Insanity, sensuality, turmoil,suspense and absolute adoration. Flaws in abundance but love shining through I love this story.
I love to read but I am also a binge reader. To me that means I read books to escape but do not often get fully lost in the stories. Then Auryn comes along with a world like this!? Insanity, sensuality, turmoil,suspense and absolute adoration. Flaws in abundance but love shining through I love this story.
October 24, 2021
Wow
Gods what another amazing installment of this series. This one was much lighter and I smiled so much through out. Things seem to be going well for the chosen and there's nothing they can't overcome as a team. I can't wait for the final book, it was so good to read. I've enjoyed this series so much
Gods what another amazing installment of this series. This one was much lighter and I smiled so much through out. Things seem to be going well for the chosen and there's nothing they can't overcome as a team. I can't wait for the final book, it was so good to read. I've enjoyed this series so much
October 26, 2021
Every book in this series is divine
This series gets me every single time like damn. If this series got another 50 books I'd be the happiest reader that ever read. I can't wait for the next book but I'm also heart broken that it's the last. Please don't leave this universe of gods and temptation dear author
This series gets me every single time like damn. If this series got another 50 books I'd be the happiest reader that ever read. I can't wait for the next book but I'm also heart broken that it's the last. Please don't leave this universe of gods and temptation dear author
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