Initiate Of The Jackal

The Apprentice of Anubis #2

by Laura Greenwood

Being the top of her mummification class isn't the only thing on Ani's mind, especially when she uncovers more temple secrets.

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Initiate Of The Jackal is book two of The Apprentice Of Anubis urban fantasy series with a romantic (m/f) sub-plot. It follows a new priestess in the Temple of Anubis, Ani, and her jackal familiar. It is set in an alternative world where the Ancient Egyptian Empire never fell, and set in alternate London.

Genres: Fantasy, Paranormal

166 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 11, 2021

About the author

Laura is a USA Today Bestselling Author of fantasy romance and urban fantasy. She lives in the UK, where most of her books are set, with her partner. When she's not writing, Laura can be found exploring worldwide cusine with her partner, drinking tea, and reading fantasy books. Laura specialises in quick reads, featuring healthy relationships and consent-positive moments, regardless of whether she's writing light-hearted romance, mythology-inspired modern fantasy, cozy fantasy or anything in between.

Discover one of Laura Greenwood's most popular series:
- The Apprentice of Anubis (mythology inspired modern/urban fantasy)
- Forgotten Gods (mythology inspired fantasy romance)
- Jinx Paranormal Dating Agency (mythology inspired paranormal rom-com)
- House of Blood and Roses (vampire romantasy)
- Amethyst's Wand Shop Mysteries (urban fantasy murder mystery)
- Scales of Justice (mythology inspired modern/urban fantasy)
- Purple Oak Oasis (cozy fantasy romance)
- Falhaven Castle (cozy fantasy romance)

You can find a full book list and more information on her website, or in her Facebook Reader Group.

Happy Reading!

Reviews

[Laura Greenwood]

The Apprentice Of Anubis is an urban fantasy series set in an alternative version of the world where the Ancient Egyptian Empire didn't fall.

1. Apprentice Of The Dead: books2read.com/apprenticeofthedead
2. Initiate Of The Jackal: books2read.com/initiateofthejackal
3. Novice Of The Afterlife: books2read.com/noviceoftheafterlife
4. Secrets Of The Chosen: books2read.com/secretsofthechosen
5. Priestess Of The Tombs: books2read.com/priestessofthetombs
6. Creator of the Curse: books2read.com/creatorofthecurse
7. Succession of the Temple: books2read.com/successionofthetemple
8. Festival Of The Blessed: books2read.com/festivaloftheblessed
9. Death Of The Pharaoh: books2read.com/deathofthepharaoh
10. Procession Of The King: Procession Of The King: books2read.com/processionoftheking
11. Coming soon

- Feline of Mourning (Neffie Side Story): https://books.authorlauragreenwood.co...
- Scales Of Honesty (Taia Side Story): books2read.com/scalesofhonesty
- Crown Of Grief (Iset Side Story): books2read.com/crownofgrief

[Nathalie Bookwurm · Rating 5 out of 5]

Laura Greenwood continues her Egyptian God series with Initiate of the Jackal, a novel that blends paranormal romance, mythology, and self-discovery. The book follows Ani, a young woman navigating responsibilities she never truly wanted while uncovering her magical potential.

Plot Overview

Ani is assigned to work in the front office, a duty she finds unappealing. This sets the tone for her character—she feels stuck in obligations that don't align with her true desires. Meanwhile, Prince Rami persistently asks her out, and while she initially agrees out of politeness and pressure (since he's royalty), she realizes she doesn’t want to continue the relationship.

Alongside this, Ani begins receiving lessons in blessed magic, an element that adds a mystical layer to the story. These lessons suggest that Ani has a deeper connection to the divine or supernatural forces, a common theme in Greenwood’s works, where heroines often uncover hidden strengths tied to mythology.

Characters & Development

Ani is a strong but conflicted protagonist. She doesn’t want to be forced into situations, whether it’s an unwanted job or a relationship dictated by royal expectations. Her character arc seems to focus on reclaiming her choices—both in love and in her magical abilities.

Prince serves as both a romantic interest and an obstacle. While he isn't portrayed as overtly malicious, his persistence highlights the societal pressures Ani faces. The tension between them adds an interesting dynamic to the plot.

Magic & the Divine: The inclusion of blessed magic suggests a greater destiny for Ani, which could be tied to Egyptian gods or a larger mystical order. The way Greenwood weaves mythology into her characters’ personal journeys is one of the strengths of the series.

Themes

Personal Agency & Choice – Ani’s reluctance to date the prince and her dissatisfaction with her job highlight her struggle to make choices for herself. Her journey is about standing up for what she truly wants.

Mythology & Power – The concept of blessed magic connects Ani to something greater, hinting at divine influence in human affairs.

Romantic Expectations vs. Personal Desire – Ani’s relationship with the prince raises questions about societal pressures in romance, making her character more layered and realistic.

Writing Style & Pacing

Greenwood’s writing is accessible and engaging, with a good balance of dialogue, action, and introspection. The pacing is steady—perhaps a bit rushed in certain emotional moments, but it keeps the story moving without unnecessary filler. The mythology elements are well-integrated without feeling like a history lesson.

Final Verdict

Initiate of the Jackal is a compelling read for fans of paranormal romance with mythological influences. Ani is a relatable protagonist, and her journey of self-discovery is satisfying. While the romance subplot may feel frustrating at times, it serves its purpose in highlighting the pressures of royal expectations versus personal choice. The introduction of blessed magic adds intrigue, making this book a solid addition to Greenwood’s Egyptian God series.

Recommended for: Readers who enjoy mythology-based fantasy romance, strong heroines asserting their independence, and stories with divine/magical elements.

Rating: 5/5

[Annette · Rating 4 out of 5]

I admire all writers. I admire everyone who can write down a story and has the courage to share it with the world. I admire those creating characters and worlds and plots from scratch. And I really admire authors like Laura Greenwood doing that over and over and over again. I really enjoyed the first book in this series, so I was quite excited when BookSprout offered the second book.

Once again I fell in love with the world Greenwood created for this story. It's one thing to tell a story set in an ancient culture, it's another thing to expand that historical culture and to turn it into a modern one. In this case Greenwood created the world as it would have looked like if the Egyptian empire would have kept growing and it's amazingly well done.

The Egyptian feel is there throughout the entire story. The Gods are very present, there are old customs, there are modern versions of the old customs, there are new holidays based on holidays there used to be in the Egyptian era, but there are also mobile phones and motorized vehicles. It therefore feels modern and ancient at the same time.

While it's the world that steals the story, I also quite like the romance in this trilogy. It's not very hard to guess where it will eventually end, I've been reading more Greenwoods after all, but I like how things are built up slowly, how the characters get the time to get to know each other, to work together, to grow together and learn together.

I can't wait for the next installment!

[Ash J · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am surprisingly really enjoying these stories by Laura Greenwood. I am not usually a mythology reader or ancient Egyptian story reader but I really like Laura Greenwoods stories and I liked the first story in this series so I thought I would try it out. I am so glad that I did. The story is adventurous and the characters were really easy to like and get involved with. Their is a small bit of romance blooming but it does not overtake the whole story. It mainly focuses on the mythology and events that happen based around that. This was an entertaining read and I will most likely check out the next book in this series as well.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Renée · Rating 5 out of 5]

Initiate Of The Jackal is the second book in Laura Greenwood’s The Apprentice Of Anubis series.

There’s a little recap before you begin the story, which was a nice refresher.

Ani’s story continues as a priestess in training, and her growth to become a full priestess. She still has a lot to learn, and there’s also the development of her friendships and potential love interest.

The thief trails also connect this book with book 1. As this is a series, book 1 is required to be read first.

[Jeanny · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 stars

[Crystalclearwpg · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this installment of the Apprentice of Anubis series we get to see Ani and Nik continue on with their daily work as apprentices within the Temple of Anubis while still dabbing within the armature sleuthing of the mysteries going on within the temple walls. While doing all of this we see a beginning of a change of their relationship which is a nice natural development that I am enjoying reading along with. Easy 4 star rating.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[TaniaRina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Adventures galore
One doesn’t have to be a global traveler like the royals or date a prince like Ani does in order to appreciate our world. We can learn so much by reading about our local legends & history, attending cultural events, visiting museums, taking tour guide courses (very common for many immigrants to Israel), participating in culinary classes, etc. While reading, I often take side trips to GoogleLand and to the Realm of Wiki before hopping over to the Isle of YouTube.


Take your job and/or your volunteer work seriously, regardless of the level. Everything we do can make a difference. Definitely give credit to those who assisted, but don’t downplay your own accomplishments. Our service is important and we have the power to make it relevant and fulfilling.
Getting targeted training (like Ani) and/or a mentor and/or a life coach are some of the ways to improve ourselves and therefore our contributions to society.

There is something to the phrase “it’s easier to ask forgiveness than permission”. On the other hand, if something wrong has already happened, then reporting it sooner rather than later may be the best course of action. Definitely do some sleuthing, if needed, but don’t rat out your accomplice(s) if caught.


Father knows best:
‘There's no need borrowing trouble from tomorrow.’
We’ve all got more than enough going on today and it all needs our full attention.

I usually like to post a fave quote in my reviews, but I’m unsure how to describe the one I chose for this book. Ironic, perhaps? Snarky? Nailed it? Spot on?
‘The Empire has taken over so many countries and erased part of their history.’
Guess living in a country that regained her independence after having been occupied by three empires – in a row, no less – has left me a wee bit biased. True, many of the ruins are ancient and time has taken its toll on them. But there are so many places here and in other parts of the world where cultural icons have been destroyed and obliterated, whether it be architecture, language & literature, religions, or even people.

May we live to see a world in which all peoples are respected (alive and deceased).


Now I’m off to download a Senet board to learn how to play this Egyptian game (thanks, Laura!) before I delve into the next in series - ‘Notice of the Afterlife’.

[Laura Moylan · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the second book, Nikare and Ani are sent over to the front of the Temple of Anubis where they are taught to put the Death Certificates with the final wishes and insurance documents for each of the dead. It is boring and tedious work, but they need to learn every aspect of the Temple as priests. Prince Ramesses is still taking Ani out for excursions, where she is bored out of her mind. In this book, Nik and Ani’s class complete their first year and start having testing. Ani also learns what it truly means to be Blessed with her jackal Matia.

Everything written in the book is vastly interesting. Yes, it can be a little gross with reading about them embalming the dead or the mummification involved, but it is still interesting. I’m totally fascinated with the series. The What If of it all is just so cool. Once again, Ani and Nik find out something that is problematic that is happening in the Temple and bring it out to the light of day. I have to say that Nik’s dad, who is the High Priest of the Temple of Anubis is not efficient at all. I don’t like the Prince at all and I’m worried for later.

I can’t wait to read the rest of the series- woohoo!~

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Manuela Molteni · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Initiate of the Jackal, Ani, Nik, and the rest of the apprentices are back to their normal routines. Between preparing the deceased for their journey to the afterlife and investigating mysterious disappearances of the bodies they’re embalming, there's never a dull moment. Ani and Nik are definitely not the types to look the other way and ignore what’s happening.

Another adventure awaits our future priests and priestess, always accompanied by my favorite character, Matia, the sacred Jackal. Ramesses is still in the picture… or is he?

Laura Greenwood has done it again, delivering a sequel that's as thrilling and engaging as the first. The mystery deepens, the stakes get higher, and the chemistry between characters continues to sizzle. The world-building is impeccable, seamlessly blending ancient Egyptian lore with modern London vibes.

Ani's journey of self-discovery and her determination to uncover the truth keep you hooked from start to finish. And let's not forget the delightful Matia, whose presence adds an extra layer of charm and wit to the story.

If you loved Apprentice of the Dead, you won't be able to put down Initiate of the Jackal. Get ready for more magic, more intrigue, and more of the heart-pounding excitement that makes this series a must-read. Can’t wait to see what twists and turns Greenwood has in store for us next!

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Life at the temple gets intense for Ani, Nik and the rest of the junior priests when it’s time for their first mummification test. Ani and Nik try to help a fellow student and stumble onto another mystery in the temple. Trying to do the right thing they alert Nick’s father the High Priest but things don’t go quite as planned. Ani is also learning more about what it means to be Blessed and what special skills she has due to it. And a potential love triangle is blossoming between Ani, Nik and the prince.
An overall enjoyable book and a great continuation from the first one. I liked that we got to see both more of what the temple does and more of life outside of it as well. As for Ani and her love life I’m team Nik 100%. The prince is a bit of a jerk. History and fantasy come alive and blend well with a fictional modern Egyptian empire. Very much looking forward to the next installment of Ani’s story!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kristin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is another grand slam for Laura Greenwood & the Anubis series.
Ani and Nik get themselves into a bit of a pickle this time around BUT it was in the process of helping a friend. Nik investigates what they found on his own because Ani has a very busy social schedule that even she doesn’t know about. When Nik tells Ani his findings, she insists he tells his father, aka the High Priest. The High Priest actually gives Nik & Ani a compliment & believes them which almost puts them both in shock. Neffie and Ani get to spend some time together again. Oh, Ani also starts her Blessed training. It's interesting but one part is extremely gross. At least to me. Speaking of gross, there is one very disturbing and disgusting conversation in the book. Gave me the creeps.
Despite those last 2 points, it's a fantastic, quick to read page turner. If I could give it more than 5 stars I would. Can be read as a standalone but better if read in order, imo. Go now and buy with one click. You won't be disappointed.

[T. · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars

Ani, her sacred jackal Matia and Nik (the High Priest’s son) are back. Ana and Nik have finished their punishments from the last book and are now continuing to learn more about their duties to Anubis. Ani is very busy with her classes, with her Jackal and with a new mystery she and Nik are a part of. On top of that all, she seems to also be dating a Prince! Yes, Ani and Nik manage to find…get into trouble again. It’s very interesting to be sure.


Ms. Greenwood has again given us an excellent story. I love how Ani is very serious and determined on her path to honor Anubis. Her dating, but not dating, the Prince adds quite a twist to this story. Ani’s relationship/friendship with Nik is cute and it’s helpful that Matia likes him too! Novice Of The Afterlife (The Apprentice Of Anubis Book 3) releases January 6, 2022. I really, really, really want to see what happens in that story!

I received this ARC via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Victoria Golby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Interesting Egyptian themed series

I really enjoyed reading this. In a different world, the Egyptians over took the Romans and their empire now runs a lot of the world. This series is set in London with temples running different parts of the city.

Ani and Nik are working together again but rather than organs going missing, this time it’s whole bodies. They have to work out how to investigate the crime while also getting the results from their mummification test and Ani accompanying Prince Ramesses to dinner events. She’s also starting her Blessed training and learning how to work with Matia her Jackal.

An fun and interesting read with references to the Egyptian traditions and ways of life. I like the hint there is a longer story running through the books, with there definitely being something between Ani, Nik and Prince Ramesses. Can’t wait to read the next.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ari and Nick are back to solving mysteries and working on their slow burn romance. Ari and Matia start Blessed training which incidentally helps with the mystery solving in this story. It seems something is off in the mortuary room... Ari and Nick decide to check things out, they learn something is not right and tell Nicks father... they assist in catching the thieves but something is still off. This slow burn just ignited the fuse... watch out is it a long or short fuse??? Will need to read the next story to see where things go from here. We will learn more about the body snatchers and maybe learn more about Ari's Blessed trainer and her Ramses romance? Lots of things still up in the air in this world...more to look forward to!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Douglas Williamson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Missing bodies are never a good thing, particularly when our heroine works for the lord of the dead.

This is book two of the series. It works pretty well as a standalone, but would be more enjoyable if read from the start. Your call.

This is a rather intriguing paranormal story with an Ancient Egypt theme in the modern world. The story is well written, easy to read and filled with bits of humor that help keep things occasionally lighten the mood. Both the characters and setting are well developed and fun. I have to admit that I liked the setting so much that it occasionally distracted me from the action itself. Overall, a great addition to the series and I look forward to seeing what comes next.

Highly recommended.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout for review purposes.

[Toni · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ani and Nik are being punished...maybe? They get to work in the front office with paperwork! Oh Joy! Plus how did she get involved with Ramesses ? But at least she and Nik are back at the mortuary. They go through a test of their abilities for the mortuary. Then she gets word that she's to meet with Kafre who will teach her the ways of the Blessed. As they wait for the test results, she and Nik head back to the mortuary to help out their friend, Hannu, who put the wrong amulet on the body. Nik goes in to replace it while Ani is on look out. Only Nik calls her in. The body is missing...the wraps are there the body isn't. Now they need to figure what happened to the body and if it is a one time thing. How do they manage to find trouble so often?
Another great read!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Leah · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am really enjoying this series. I love the world building. It is such a good mix of modern and the Egyptian mythology. Ani is a very interesting character and it is great to see how she deals with not only being the only priestess, but also her blessed status. I especially liked how she was able to spend time growing her connection with her jackal, it is so sweet.
Compared to the last book this one felt a bit slower. It was more about Ani settling into herself and her work and trying to juggle everything life throws at you. This definitely feels like it has the potential to be a longer, slow burn series. I hope to see more of Ani.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Laure · Rating 4 out of 5]

A big test in her mummification class, a new instructor teaching her about her Blessed by Anubis abilities, and Prince Ramesses' continued interest keeps Ani busier than she would like, and then bodies are going missing, and Nik is determined to investigate. Ani doesn't want Nik or herself to get into more trouble, but she also wants to get to the bottom of the mystery of the disappearing bodies.

Fascinating and wonderfully well written characters who are just beginning to realize that they may have stronger feelings for each other than they thought. Fantastic book with a little romance, magic, and even a little mystery set in an entirely new and unique world. I think this is a must-read book, and series.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

[Brad · Rating 4 out of 5]

The series continues with another crime to investigate, romantic relationships, and learning about the temple’s business. The world view assumes that current technology has come into existence while living under a long lived Egyptian empire. There appears to be a lot of good research as a basis for the modernization of Egyptian burial rites. The contrast of Egyptian attire and practices in London provides some comic relief.

Ani and Nik struggle with their relationship with neither ready to discuss how they really feel. It’s still only part way through their first year in the temple so they and their fellow apprentices are at the bottom of the hierarchy.

We get to know more of the fellow apprentices as Ani’s circle of friends grows.

Another enjoyable book.

[Andra Shaw · Rating 4 out of 5]

Initiate Of The Jackal (The Apprentice Of Anubis #2) is a fantastic next book in the series. Ani is coming into her own with being the Blessed and has become good friends with Nik. What's going on with Ani and Prince Ramses is a mystery and, frankly, a little awkward. Of course, Ani and Nik cannot stay out of trouble. They are always finding something that is a little off that needs to be investigated. With mystery, a blossoming romance, a little action, and a nice mix of modern storytelling and Egyptian folklore, Initiate Of The Jackal is a quick entertaining read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[DeeDeeWReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Our adventures with Ani and Nik continue. This time, they are preparing and taking their mummification exams. Due to a friend needing help, they come across quite the issue. Together they are going to work to figure it out, and Nik even inolves his dad. Come along and see what happens.

Ani is also struggling with Ramesses wanting too much of her time, but does she REALLY like him? Only time will tell I guess....

Loved this one a lot. Watching Ani and Nik working together and finding their way in their friendship. One incident might have changed everything tho. We shall see!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Ana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Again Laura's caught your attention in this book. I started and when I see I was almost ending it... lol
Ani continues her studies to become an anubis priestess, but her life is not as simple as she would like. A prince, her friendship with Nik and suspicious things are happening at the temple, as she will find time to devote herself to Anubis.
If you liked the first, will love this now... Ahhhh, I want more...

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Erika · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in the series. It has all the ancient Egyptian culture brought to London with new customs. Ani is continuing her studies to be a priestess. She is thrown into a new mystery and her studies get pushed to the side. While all this going on, she is keeping her romance with Ramsess on slow simmer. It is an interesting combination of the old and new customs. You will not be disappointed with the story one bit.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Anita Hanekom · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in the series and it follows on seamlessly from the first book and kept me entertained from start to finish Ani is doing really well and her and Nik have become really good friends. She has a lot on her plate between her studies and whatever is happening between herself and Prince Ramses. The characters are still flawless and the the investigation that she and Nik get involved this time around make for a roller coaster of ride.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Dianna · Rating 4 out of 5]

So I’m wondering if this is also an inside job or they just need better security. That was kind of creepy to learn what people will do with some bodies. I also think the timing is suspect especially if someone knew what is used in her training. Ani’s love love just got a bit more complicated but I think with Prince’s it’s a case of rivalry and entitlement. She also gets a glimpse of how females can not be seen sometimes for their own merits.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Wanda Jewell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a page turner. It is part of a series, but you could read it alone. It is a slow burn romance. I love the modern alternate history using Egyptian burial customs in London. The characters are fantastic. They are realistic and you can relate to their issues. They are bound for trouble, but have bonded as friends and possibly more. I loved the book and it will keep you entertained. I highly recommend this book and the series.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Anita Fuhrmann · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm enjoying this new series and this book takes place right after Apprentice Of The Dead with Ani having so much more to learn in her new position as a new priestess in the Temple of Anubis in an Ancient Greece that never fell and which is located in an alternate London. The world that Ms. Greenwood has created is so refreshingly original and imaginative and I have become completely and thoroughly hooked and can't wait for more!

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kristen Lewendon · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the opportunity to see what Ani, Matia, and Nik are learning at the temple. And I got a bit of a kick out of seeing them stumble into another mystery. I’m not sure I’m a fan of the love triangle that’s developing, but since it’s so low key at the moment, I’m reserving judgement. The one thing I would have liked from this book was a little more resolution, to anything. The ending leaves me with the feeling of everything being so unfinished.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Booksprout.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Plot Thickens with Suspicion.
Ani and her newly attained best friend Nik are at it again finding some suspicious findings. It’s a regular mystery and detective series with these two finding strange anomalies. First the illegal organ harvesting in book one and now missing bodies?! As Ani develops more into her Blessed training, the courtship with the Prince has gotten rocky. I’m invested in this series as Ani journeys her path to Anubis’s Priestess.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.