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Malicious Gods: Egypt
Maahes
Lev lives for death.
Tainted from birth and despised for sacrificing fellow Servants of Maahes, Lev pursues a life of devotion and abstinence as the Left Hand. His reward will come in the Afterlife.
Živan Bratko, bastard heir to a Bulgarian crime family, lives in the moment, rescuing big cats and slaking his lust with even wilder men. He can’t resist the challenge of corrupting one of the legendary Hands of Maahes.
A sociopath hedonist versus a devout assassin. Who will be hunter or prey when lives and souls are the ultimate stakes?
A dark contemporary mm story featuring a collision of cultures, manipulative main characters, assassins, kidnap, and hungry lions.
Welcome to the dark world of Malicious Gods: Egypt. A collection of standalone modern tales, both magical and non-magical, featuring deities from Ancient Egypt. You’ll find reincarnated Gods, assassins, gangs, madness, and different realities. Expect high heat and morally ambiguous themes. Seductive and often twisted, they are not for the fainthearted.
Tainted from birth and despised for sacrificing fellow Servants of Maahes, Lev pursues a life of devotion and abstinence as the Left Hand. His reward will come in the Afterlife.
Živan Bratko, bastard heir to a Bulgarian crime family, lives in the moment, rescuing big cats and slaking his lust with even wilder men. He can’t resist the challenge of corrupting one of the legendary Hands of Maahes.
A sociopath hedonist versus a devout assassin. Who will be hunter or prey when lives and souls are the ultimate stakes?
A dark contemporary mm story featuring a collision of cultures, manipulative main characters, assassins, kidnap, and hungry lions.
Welcome to the dark world of Malicious Gods: Egypt. A collection of standalone modern tales, both magical and non-magical, featuring deities from Ancient Egypt. You’ll find reincarnated Gods, assassins, gangs, madness, and different realities. Expect high heat and morally ambiguous themes. Seductive and often twisted, they are not for the fainthearted.
436 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 30, 2021
35 people are currently reading
347 people want to read
About the author
Emma Jaye
50 books684 followersEmma is the #1 Amazon Bestselling Author of m/m series such as Paint, Incubus, and Lies.
Known as the Queen of MM angst her books include Sci-fi, paranormal, and contemporary romance and always puts her characters through hell before giving them a HEA. She blames her rebellious muse (who looks like Chris from the Paint Series) for the erotic aspects tickling the angst, and the humor cuddling up with the erotic.
When not writing or reading she herds Birman cats and sons; Both groups argue that the other is too large.
For a free book, join her NL: https://readerlinks.com/l/1869132/new...
If you want to keep up with her spicy, quirky imagination, you can find her here:
Author Page: http://bit.ly/2wox9M0
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Amazon: https://amzn.to/2MRtGQk
She always answers questions and comments from readers, so feel free to get in touch.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
August 10, 2021
4.5 “i’ll always find you” stars
In every cell of his body, Živan knew he belonged to this man.
Trigger warnings: violence, murder, kidnaping, dubious consent
I’m in kind of a reading slump, have been for a while and even when I successfully read a book, it’s really rare that it grabs my attention and keeps me interested for the entire book. My reading speed lately has been me reading for 10 minutes then getting distracted and watching 2 hours of youtube videos. I read most of this 400 pages book in one sitting, I stayed up until 5 am to read it, do I really need to say more? I think it’s clear that this book succeeded in doing what not many books have done for me lately, grabed me into the story and fascinated me until the end.
Brief summary
Lev is a servant of Maahes and he takes a blood oath to find the men who kidnaped and raped a 18 years old girl. Thats why he’s looking the Bratko family, who are a gang known for smugling. Živan is part of the family but he doesn’t participate in the family affairs much, he just loves to take care of his animals, like his lions, his dogs and his hyenas. Živan captures Lev when he discovers them looking for him and a lot of torture and falling in love happens.
First, I was a little confused as to what was happening at the start of the book because the book just throws you into the story without many explanations but the book actually explains the story later on and makes it very easy to understand so I was glad to see that.
Second, I loved the vibe of the book. I said it before but I love the really grim and bleak worlds where everything and everyone seems doomed and it was the case of the world in this book so I really loved it. I really love darker setting full of murder and questionable practices so this book was right up my alley. I enjoyed how the book was dark but never in an overwhelming way, the world still had nice things to offer, sometimes.
Third, the writing in this book was so pretty. I love the more fancy type of writing that really shows emotions and the feels of a scene and it was just so lovely in this book.
Fourth, I have no knowledge about Egyptian Mythology but the book really explained all of the references to mythology in a way that made me understand everything that was happening and I really enjoyed that.
Fifth, I really enjoyed both characters. Lev has never been with anyone because he is devoted to his God and made vows he would pratice abstinence. I really loved the corruption of a pure figure in books so I was so into that aspect. Lev is all discipline and structure and Živan is all chaos and violence. They made a really good pair and complimented each other very very well. Of course most things in their relationship was a little dubious but I thought it was in a good way, it really worked for the relationship they had and it fit perfectly with the set up of the book. I liked how they both didn’t want to like each other but they couldn’t stop it from happening.
Sixth, the sex scenes were so perfect to me. They were a good length and they was just the right amount for me. And they were so damn hot. I was a really big fan of the couple’s dynamic and the power exchange, it was just so good and really fit who they are as characters. Also this book includes primal play and primal play is really fucking hot and I love reading about it. Also guns and knives being used during sex are always a plus in my book so I loved that part.
Seventh, I really loved the entire story progression in this book. The story took me a lot of places I wasn’t expecting but it was never places I didn’t enjoy, in fact I enjoyed them very much. I really loved following Lev as he chased Živan around and tried to collect information about him, it was very fun to read about and I really loved the part where Živan kidnaped Lev after, everything was so entertaining to read about. And the ending of this book was perfect and I loved it, so much.
Eight, If I had to say something I enjoyed a little less, it would be that the last third for the book dragged a little for me, I still really enjoyed it but it started to feel like the book was a little too long for the plot points, it started to feel like we were going in circles a little. But that might be because I have no attention spawn lately and that anything over 200 pages feels like the longest experience of my life, so I blame the reading slump and not the book for this one.
I really loved this book and I had such a good time reading it.
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest review.
In every cell of his body, Živan knew he belonged to this man.
Trigger warnings: violence, murder, kidnaping, dubious consent
I’m in kind of a reading slump, have been for a while and even when I successfully read a book, it’s really rare that it grabs my attention and keeps me interested for the entire book. My reading speed lately has been me reading for 10 minutes then getting distracted and watching 2 hours of youtube videos. I read most of this 400 pages book in one sitting, I stayed up until 5 am to read it, do I really need to say more? I think it’s clear that this book succeeded in doing what not many books have done for me lately, grabed me into the story and fascinated me until the end.
Brief summary
Lev is a servant of Maahes and he takes a blood oath to find the men who kidnaped and raped a 18 years old girl. Thats why he’s looking the Bratko family, who are a gang known for smugling. Živan is part of the family but he doesn’t participate in the family affairs much, he just loves to take care of his animals, like his lions, his dogs and his hyenas. Živan captures Lev when he discovers them looking for him and a lot of torture and falling in love happens.
First, I was a little confused as to what was happening at the start of the book because the book just throws you into the story without many explanations but the book actually explains the story later on and makes it very easy to understand so I was glad to see that.
Second, I loved the vibe of the book. I said it before but I love the really grim and bleak worlds where everything and everyone seems doomed and it was the case of the world in this book so I really loved it. I really love darker setting full of murder and questionable practices so this book was right up my alley. I enjoyed how the book was dark but never in an overwhelming way, the world still had nice things to offer, sometimes.
Third, the writing in this book was so pretty. I love the more fancy type of writing that really shows emotions and the feels of a scene and it was just so lovely in this book.
Fourth, I have no knowledge about Egyptian Mythology but the book really explained all of the references to mythology in a way that made me understand everything that was happening and I really enjoyed that.
Fifth, I really enjoyed both characters. Lev has never been with anyone because he is devoted to his God and made vows he would pratice abstinence. I really loved the corruption of a pure figure in books so I was so into that aspect. Lev is all discipline and structure and Živan is all chaos and violence. They made a really good pair and complimented each other very very well. Of course most things in their relationship was a little dubious but I thought it was in a good way, it really worked for the relationship they had and it fit perfectly with the set up of the book. I liked how they both didn’t want to like each other but they couldn’t stop it from happening.
Sixth, the sex scenes were so perfect to me. They were a good length and they was just the right amount for me. And they were so damn hot. I was a really big fan of the couple’s dynamic and the power exchange, it was just so good and really fit who they are as characters. Also this book includes primal play and primal play is really fucking hot and I love reading about it. Also guns and knives being used during sex are always a plus in my book so I loved that part.
Seventh, I really loved the entire story progression in this book. The story took me a lot of places I wasn’t expecting but it was never places I didn’t enjoy, in fact I enjoyed them very much. I really loved following Lev as he chased Živan around and tried to collect information about him, it was very fun to read about and I really loved the part where Živan kidnaped Lev after, everything was so entertaining to read about. And the ending of this book was perfect and I loved it, so much.
Eight, If I had to say something I enjoyed a little less, it would be that the last third for the book dragged a little for me, I still really enjoyed it but it started to feel like the book was a little too long for the plot points, it started to feel like we were going in circles a little. But that might be because I have no attention spawn lately and that anything over 200 pages feels like the longest experience of my life, so I blame the reading slump and not the book for this one.
I really loved this book and I had such a good time reading it.
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest review.
May 22, 2024
the ending gagged me💀💀💀 my jaw was dropped like no u did not just do that!!!!😳🤣 i would’ve given it 4 stars, but i think the development between the two mmcs fell short….the writing and storyline was very good tho. the second book i’ve read in the malicious gods series and after each one i’m left sitting there like wtf, i can’t even describe what i’ve just read lmaooo very unique (complementary)
July 24, 2021
4.5
Slow to get going with a lot of details about what the Hand of Maahes actually is, but those details are necessary.
Well written with a lot of information and complex plot. Keep in mind the triggers - it's violent, bloody and contains instances of rape.
It's one of those that I'm not really sure how to feel about. I liked Zivan and Lev even while both did objectionable things. Zivan in particular was a product of his upbringing.
The ending, is open to interpretation on if its a happy one. I think I'd label is HFN
Slow to get going with a lot of details about what the Hand of Maahes actually is, but those details are necessary.
Well written with a lot of information and complex plot. Keep in mind the triggers - it's violent, bloody and contains instances of rape.
It's one of those that I'm not really sure how to feel about. I liked Zivan and Lev even while both did objectionable things. Zivan in particular was a product of his upbringing.
The ending, is open to interpretation on if its a happy one. I think I'd label is HFN
August 8, 2021
“And I should care what you want, why?”
“Because we carry a piece of each other’s souls,”
Another great book from the Malicious Gods:Egypt series. And after this one I’d like to stick to fluffy readings for a while. I don’t think it was as dark as Shai: Malicious Gods: Egypt by H.L. Night, at least from my perspective. But this is definitely not a book for everyone. No need to say that you should check the blurb first.
At the beginning it was a little slow-paced and I was a little confused. Especially in the chapters with Lev’s POV. All the times he was mumbling things I was like: ‘what is he talking about?’. But soon after everything started making sense. And when the MCs found each other... saying that it was explosive is an understatement.
Živan and Lev’s twisted relationship is far from being a fairy-tale but, in the end, it ends up working. Both men had a troubled background, family issues all over the place. They explored each other in such a primal way, you could put it at Živan’s lions level.
A devoted assassin. A self-absorbed man. Not your typical love story. Second time reading a book by Emma Jaye, but not the last.
*Disclaimer: I received an ARC of this book in exchange for a free and honest review*
July 21, 2021
Yet another Malicious Gods book that left me wondering exactly what I read… and loving the experience. This book takes on the challenge of cult beliefs, mixed with murder, primal kink (without the safe, sane, consensual), mysticism, kidnapping, human trafficking, and I’m sure I missed a few!
This book is not a romance. While the two MCs do eventually realize they belong together, there is nothing light or emotional about how the relationship builds. Their interactions are in your face, brutal, and there are very few “soft” moments between the two men. But they exist and you can definitely see the evolution of the relationship through the book.
The book does have an HEA, but it’s nothing you’ll ever predict or expect, and it doesn’t necessarily fit the typical definition of an HEA. But there is one! After reading the book, I don’t think you’ll expect a traditional HEA, anyway.
Very complex characters, an involved story/plot, lots of detail – this book gives you everything. It was a delight to read, and I read it in one sitting. The first 10%-15% of the book was a bit heavy on detail with cultural references, terms in different languages, etc. The author explains the terms, but it does bog you down initially. Do not get discouraged! Once you get past that part, the story surges forward and you won’t put the book down.
This book is not a romance. While the two MCs do eventually realize they belong together, there is nothing light or emotional about how the relationship builds. Their interactions are in your face, brutal, and there are very few “soft” moments between the two men. But they exist and you can definitely see the evolution of the relationship through the book.
The book does have an HEA, but it’s nothing you’ll ever predict or expect, and it doesn’t necessarily fit the typical definition of an HEA. But there is one! After reading the book, I don’t think you’ll expect a traditional HEA, anyway.
Very complex characters, an involved story/plot, lots of detail – this book gives you everything. It was a delight to read, and I read it in one sitting. The first 10%-15% of the book was a bit heavy on detail with cultural references, terms in different languages, etc. The author explains the terms, but it does bog you down initially. Do not get discouraged! Once you get past that part, the story surges forward and you won’t put the book down.
July 30, 2021
In goddess name how do I review this, I don’t know!
In one sentence: Živan Bratko’s life is convicted he’s a target, the Left Hand has to put him down.
Commissioned by a young abused and raped girl, Živan Bratko will be assassinated by the Hand, it could be Lev or some other Hand. Lev lives to die, devoted to return to the Temple and meet Maahes and get entry to A’aru.
He even has to ‘help’ others to their destination. That’s what the Hand lives for.
After the death of his grandpa, Živan travels to London unknown of his fate.
Živan prefers animals above humans. He’s a master in manipulating both. He loves Kushti
Lev watching Živan was watching a different realm. Živan has kinks and lives them at a club.
After Kushti bit Lev, Žilvan and Lev finally collide.
Lev prefers pain over touch. Živan wants to find out everything about this ‘Kiska’, this young Hand.
The tables are turned with Lev kept prisoner by Živan. Little by little Lev returns to earth, and earthly things, he has never been touched, his body and soul are virginal black.
Dominance and submission, a slow buildup to an eruption that goes beyond expectations. The question stands, who’s the manipulator and who will give in.
Where lies the power... lions or balisongs, or family, or Hands or Gods, or High Priestess.
In the beginning, I stumbled a bit over all the characters, the scenery, and to get the right angle. After I got everything sorted out I was stunned, it was an unbelievable good story, with an outstanding plot.
I knew already the author excels in writing dark, depraved worlds, with extremely detailed development. This was a confirmation. Overwhelmingly written!
A mesmerizing world was created, with Egypt Gods, High Priestess, servants, devotion, sacrifices, suspicion, manipulation, it’s just too much to explain. Read it yourself and get absorbed by this masterpiece!
I told you, I don’t know how to review this and do justice to the story!
In one sentence: Živan Bratko’s life is convicted he’s a target, the Left Hand has to put him down.
Commissioned by a young abused and raped girl, Živan Bratko will be assassinated by the Hand, it could be Lev or some other Hand. Lev lives to die, devoted to return to the Temple and meet Maahes and get entry to A’aru.
He even has to ‘help’ others to their destination. That’s what the Hand lives for.
After the death of his grandpa, Živan travels to London unknown of his fate.
Živan prefers animals above humans. He’s a master in manipulating both. He loves Kushti
Lev watching Živan was watching a different realm. Živan has kinks and lives them at a club.
After Kushti bit Lev, Žilvan and Lev finally collide.
Lev prefers pain over touch. Živan wants to find out everything about this ‘Kiska’, this young Hand.
The tables are turned with Lev kept prisoner by Živan. Little by little Lev returns to earth, and earthly things, he has never been touched, his body and soul are virginal black.
Dominance and submission, a slow buildup to an eruption that goes beyond expectations. The question stands, who’s the manipulator and who will give in.
Where lies the power... lions or balisongs, or family, or Hands or Gods, or High Priestess.
In the beginning, I stumbled a bit over all the characters, the scenery, and to get the right angle. After I got everything sorted out I was stunned, it was an unbelievable good story, with an outstanding plot.
I knew already the author excels in writing dark, depraved worlds, with extremely detailed development. This was a confirmation. Overwhelmingly written!
A mesmerizing world was created, with Egypt Gods, High Priestess, servants, devotion, sacrifices, suspicion, manipulation, it’s just too much to explain. Read it yourself and get absorbed by this masterpiece!
I told you, I don’t know how to review this and do justice to the story!
August 2, 2021
Wow what a beautiful dark story!! I loved the plot and the world building so much. Lev was such a fascinating character, the chapters that were from his point of view really captured me. Don’t get me wrong, Zivan was very intriguing too and I enjoyed his chapters, but Lev was one of the most unique characters I’ve ever read about. The story was so intense, the tables kept on turning and sometimes Lev had the upper hand and sometimes Zivan did. It was a roller coaster and I really had no idea how it was going to end. I didn't even know how I wanted it to end. I was just there for the ride and having the best time reading this captivating book. And when I read the epilogue, I knew that this was the prefect way for their story to end, so satisfying.
I received a free copy of this book through Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
I received a free copy of this book through Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
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March 27, 2022DNF
August 1, 2021
By far the best of the MALICIOUS GODS series!
I read this in a day. Couldn't stop!
Emma Jaye really did her research to create two very culturally and moral-code-driven characters with their own endearing and threatening goals. The story definitely had some enemies-to-lovers type vibes, and certainly nothing was easy, and I LOVED it. No insta-love in sight *dramatically sighs in relief.*
I really like how the dynamic of the two MCs was very deliciously fleshed out; the painful, tense moments (how Zivan has his dog attack Liv at the camp, how Liv consistently plans to kill Zivan)- all the good stuff. The writer really gave the reader the scenes they wanted, rather than everything about the other character being revealed to one another and leaving no room for anything to build.
I think the only part I had trouble with was the beginning. There was a lot of name-dropping of characters I didn't know yet, and it was a bit disorienting, but everything gets explained eventually.
This was such a great read! Now all I have to do is sit and wait for the second book of Malthusia!
I read this in a day. Couldn't stop!
Emma Jaye really did her research to create two very culturally and moral-code-driven characters with their own endearing and threatening goals. The story definitely had some enemies-to-lovers type vibes, and certainly nothing was easy, and I LOVED it. No insta-love in sight *dramatically sighs in relief.*
I really like how the dynamic of the two MCs was very deliciously fleshed out; the painful, tense moments (how Zivan has his dog attack Liv at the camp, how Liv consistently plans to kill Zivan)- all the good stuff. The writer really gave the reader the scenes they wanted, rather than everything about the other character being revealed to one another and leaving no room for anything to build.
I think the only part I had trouble with was the beginning. There was a lot of name-dropping of characters I didn't know yet, and it was a bit disorienting, but everything gets explained eventually.
This was such a great read! Now all I have to do is sit and wait for the second book of Malthusia!
July 27, 2021
Click
Hmm, I’m…well…I’m not sure exactly what I am after finishing Maahes but I know I feel a lot. Emma Jaye is a master of dark and angst, and this book, these characters, this world; while not completely pitch black with only the smallest sliver of light, that light gleams with brilliance. I really, really enjoyed it. “I’m a part of you now, as much as you’re part of me.” No lies, Lev and Živan are hecka complicated, as in I’m still not sure if I like them but I’ll definitely remember them. They’re fascinating, engrossing, disturbing, sexy, deliciously violent, primitive and… Oh, who am I kidding, of course I love them and please excuse my drool. Do heed the warnings as this book has triggers but wow it’s so worth the emotional roller coaster and the intense but satisfying ending. Full of details, it’s also an Egyptian history lesson but one so vivid and colorful, I’d be willing to return to school as long as Živan and Lev were my teachers.
Hmm, I’m…well…I’m not sure exactly what I am after finishing Maahes but I know I feel a lot. Emma Jaye is a master of dark and angst, and this book, these characters, this world; while not completely pitch black with only the smallest sliver of light, that light gleams with brilliance. I really, really enjoyed it. “I’m a part of you now, as much as you’re part of me.” No lies, Lev and Živan are hecka complicated, as in I’m still not sure if I like them but I’ll definitely remember them. They’re fascinating, engrossing, disturbing, sexy, deliciously violent, primitive and… Oh, who am I kidding, of course I love them and please excuse my drool. Do heed the warnings as this book has triggers but wow it’s so worth the emotional roller coaster and the intense but satisfying ending. Full of details, it’s also an Egyptian history lesson but one so vivid and colorful, I’d be willing to return to school as long as Živan and Lev were my teachers.
October 20, 2021
Book Trigger Warnings: violence, mentions of rape/non-con , dub-con (between the to MCs), mentions of incest, animal cruelty, BDSM (primal kink specifically), dark romance, angst, and main character death (sort of).
For the first time in my life, I’m not even sure where to start. I am almost positive I love it, and I wonder how fucked up that makes me (I mean this in the best way possible). The beginning was super slow with lots of world building and setting the scene. Our two lovely main character didn’t even meet until the reader is about a third of the way into the book. That usually annoys me a bit, but I found I didn’t mind. The world building was intriguing enough to get me hooked.
Lev annoyed me in the best possible way. He is very ‘holier-than-thou’ in the beginning. I’m not a religious person (as you may know) so reading a character that is so devoted to his faith was a bit strange for me. I didn’t relate to him because I didn’t know where he was going to end up with this story in term of faith. The further into the story I got, the more I grew attached to him, much like his male counter part.
Živan is an irresistibly charismatic character. I may or may not be in love with him at this point. He’s incredibly intelligent and witty. He pretends not to care, when deep inside his heart, he cares a lot. He is just very selective about it. He is very cocky in the beginning. I hated the clicker almost as much as Lev, however, I do love how Jaye always brought it full circle, even with the clicker. I also found his kinks fascinating. I have read a lot of BDSM, but I’ve never really heard of a primal kink in this way.
I didn’t find this book particularly triggering, but then again, very little actually triggers me. There was a part that was sort of dub-con that was between the main characters, but it was a very gray area. I’m still unsure of how I feel about it, but I know for a fact that I do not hate this book. Not at all. It’s dark, sexy, and intriguing. Everything I ask for in a book.
The reader in me sort of hated the ending of this book, but the writer in me is incredibly impressed with the balls Jaye has. I don’t want to ruin it for you, but I was in complete shock. I do feel like I was left with a lot of unanswered questions that I’m not sure will be answered in the sequel. I wouldn’t call it a happily ever after, but definitely a happily for now.
For the first time in my life, I’m not even sure where to start. I am almost positive I love it, and I wonder how fucked up that makes me (I mean this in the best way possible). The beginning was super slow with lots of world building and setting the scene. Our two lovely main character didn’t even meet until the reader is about a third of the way into the book. That usually annoys me a bit, but I found I didn’t mind. The world building was intriguing enough to get me hooked.
Lev annoyed me in the best possible way. He is very ‘holier-than-thou’ in the beginning. I’m not a religious person (as you may know) so reading a character that is so devoted to his faith was a bit strange for me. I didn’t relate to him because I didn’t know where he was going to end up with this story in term of faith. The further into the story I got, the more I grew attached to him, much like his male counter part.
Živan is an irresistibly charismatic character. I may or may not be in love with him at this point. He’s incredibly intelligent and witty. He pretends not to care, when deep inside his heart, he cares a lot. He is just very selective about it. He is very cocky in the beginning. I hated the clicker almost as much as Lev, however, I do love how Jaye always brought it full circle, even with the clicker. I also found his kinks fascinating. I have read a lot of BDSM, but I’ve never really heard of a primal kink in this way.
I didn’t find this book particularly triggering, but then again, very little actually triggers me. There was a part that was sort of dub-con that was between the main characters, but it was a very gray area. I’m still unsure of how I feel about it, but I know for a fact that I do not hate this book. Not at all. It’s dark, sexy, and intriguing. Everything I ask for in a book.
The reader in me sort of hated the ending of this book, but the writer in me is incredibly impressed with the balls Jaye has. I don’t want to ruin it for you, but I was in complete shock. I do feel like I was left with a lot of unanswered questions that I’m not sure will be answered in the sequel. I wouldn’t call it a happily ever after, but definitely a happily for now.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 30, 2021
Thank you for the ARC read, I voluntarily give this book an honest review. Lev wasnt one for breaking the rules of Maahes, pleasure of living held no appeal to him. Only after his mission as the left hand is turned into more hunting Živan Bratko for the sacrifice payment wasn't going the way he planned. Živan had a connection to the animal's he cared more for people family included. With his uncle now "acting" head of the family after the death of his grandfather, darker desire stir in his head but meeting Lev is when he acts, but what is the over all cost of his mistakes where his family is considered.
The prime desire that Živan has dreamt of is about to take on reality form with Led and dang is it DARK and HOT, get ready for a cold shower after this book. Someone in the family must die for the wrong that has been committed, only who it behind the deaths and kidnappings. The darkness that lerks in Živan's blood is about to meet its match in Lev the left hand of Maashes.
Man I was not properly prepared for the ending, even though you know it's coming. Yeah I teared up a little, after all these two man take you a such deep emotional ride throughout.
The prime desire that Živan has dreamt of is about to take on reality form with Led and dang is it DARK and HOT, get ready for a cold shower after this book. Someone in the family must die for the wrong that has been committed, only who it behind the deaths and kidnappings. The darkness that lerks in Živan's blood is about to meet its match in Lev the left hand of Maashes.
Man I was not properly prepared for the ending, even though you know it's coming. Yeah I teared up a little, after all these two man take you a such deep emotional ride throughout.
July 25, 2021
Incredibly finely researched details of the ancient gods of Egypt and their cults, brought into the modern era and combined with nicely rounded out, various, gypsy/Roma cultures of Europe are all braided into a fascinating intrigue of power, belief(s), kink, and surprising innocence in the depths of a depraved world.
A world of blood sacrifices, dangerous relatives, impossibility of relationships, it pulls the reader in with both protagonists' viewpoints, seemingly very different but actually so similar in their destined position in the complex reality determined by the Gods.
Surprising ending.
A world of blood sacrifices, dangerous relatives, impossibility of relationships, it pulls the reader in with both protagonists' viewpoints, seemingly very different but actually so similar in their destined position in the complex reality determined by the Gods.
Surprising ending.
July 31, 2021
This was a slow starting book! It took me a minute to get into it. The first 20% is a lot of explaining what the hands do, what benefactors and sacrifices are, and I really had to work to pay attention. There is an explanation and notes and you can tell there was extensive research done and it was impressive!
Once we got through that, the story unfolded and it was great!
I’m obsessed with these Malicious Gods and this one was no exception!
Once we got through that, the story unfolded and it was great!
I’m obsessed with these Malicious Gods and this one was no exception!
July 27, 2021
4.5 stars
This was superbly done. I'm not an expert on Egyptian mythology, but it comes across as immaculately researched. There are endnotes! It did take me a little to get into the story, but once it happened, I was hooked.
The two MC's are so well matched, I love the power plays that continually happen between them. Both are victim and aggressor simultaneously.
This is a dark romance, and it doesn't have a traditional HEA. I felt the ending was very fitting though.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and I have chosen to leave an honest review.
This was superbly done. I'm not an expert on Egyptian mythology, but it comes across as immaculately researched. There are endnotes! It did take me a little to get into the story, but once it happened, I was hooked.
The two MC's are so well matched, I love the power plays that continually happen between them. Both are victim and aggressor simultaneously.
This is a dark romance, and it doesn't have a traditional HEA. I felt the ending was very fitting though.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and I have chosen to leave an honest review.
July 29, 2021
When opposites attract, blood permeates the air.
Maahes is another brilliant book by Emma Jaye.
An ancient god cult, assassins, mafia, peanut politics, wild animals (yes, hot men included!), enemies to lovers, opposites attract, brilliant writing, and vivid worldbuilding, Maahes ticked all my favorite checkboxes. Quick-paced, filled with tension and ambiguous morality, fights and blood, sex and kink, Maahes was everything I expected from the worlds of Malicious Gods.
Complex characters that are so different it’s impossible to imagine them together, yet they couldn’t fit each other better.
Lev is an assassin, trained, disciplined, devoted to Maahes. His goal is to serve. He kills with no guilt in the name of his god. Faith is everything he has ever known.
Živan is a pure-blooded hedonist, selfish to the bone. Revels in sex and taming wild beasts, he doesn't bother with rules of decorum.
What could possibly fuse these two together?
Read to find out.
THE MOANING MOMENT: Oh, the ending! I want more!
Keep in mind the book is graphic and filled with triggers.
5 Bloody Stars. Highly recommended.
Maahes is another brilliant book by Emma Jaye.
An ancient god cult, assassins, mafia, peanut politics, wild animals (yes, hot men included!), enemies to lovers, opposites attract, brilliant writing, and vivid worldbuilding, Maahes ticked all my favorite checkboxes. Quick-paced, filled with tension and ambiguous morality, fights and blood, sex and kink, Maahes was everything I expected from the worlds of Malicious Gods.
Complex characters that are so different it’s impossible to imagine them together, yet they couldn’t fit each other better.
Lev is an assassin, trained, disciplined, devoted to Maahes. His goal is to serve. He kills with no guilt in the name of his god. Faith is everything he has ever known.
Živan is a pure-blooded hedonist, selfish to the bone. Revels in sex and taming wild beasts, he doesn't bother with rules of decorum.
What could possibly fuse these two together?
Read to find out.
THE MOANING MOMENT: Oh, the ending! I want more!
Keep in mind the book is graphic and filled with triggers.
5 Bloody Stars. Highly recommended.
July 30, 2021
I absolutely loved this book and I have absolutely no hesitation in recommending it!
A beautifully written,deliciously dark,enemies to lovers story that had me hooked straight from the beginning.
An absolute delight that I don't want to give spoilers for,instead I want to urge readers to immerse themselves in this brilliant story.
I received an ARC copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
A beautifully written,deliciously dark,enemies to lovers story that had me hooked straight from the beginning.
An absolute delight that I don't want to give spoilers for,instead I want to urge readers to immerse themselves in this brilliant story.
I received an ARC copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
August 31, 2021
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
This entry in the Malicious Gods of Egypt collection is … quite a book. The collection is one of dark romances by a variety of authors, with heavy themes and scenes of graphic violence. There is a brutal rape scene (which can also be read as consensual non-consent), graphic torture, dehumanizing treatment of one character by another, incest, kidnapping and human trafficking, and the death of a dog. There is also a cult, brainwashing, and regular, hum-drum murders. This is not a story about romance, but instead an examination of obsession, power dynamics, and finding that other half of yourself.
Lev is left-handed, something that determined his fate before he even knew who he was. He wanted to be an artist, to be loved and accepted and treated like everyone else. Instead, he is the Left Hand of Maahes, who writes the books of the dead and escorts the faithful to the arms of their god, sacrificing them on an alter in a gentle, peaceful ritual as old as the gods of Egypt themselves.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
This entry in the Malicious Gods of Egypt collection is … quite a book. The collection is one of dark romances by a variety of authors, with heavy themes and scenes of graphic violence. There is a brutal rape scene (which can also be read as consensual non-consent), graphic torture, dehumanizing treatment of one character by another, incest, kidnapping and human trafficking, and the death of a dog. There is also a cult, brainwashing, and regular, hum-drum murders. This is not a story about romance, but instead an examination of obsession, power dynamics, and finding that other half of yourself.
Lev is left-handed, something that determined his fate before he even knew who he was. He wanted to be an artist, to be loved and accepted and treated like everyone else. Instead, he is the Left Hand of Maahes, who writes the books of the dead and escorts the faithful to the arms of their god, sacrificing them on an alter in a gentle, peaceful ritual as old as the gods of Egypt themselves.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
July 28, 2021
Dark and twisted story!
WOW! Another phenomenal Malicious Gods story that kept me on the edge of my seat with anticipation of what was going to happen with each turn of the page. This story is dark and twisted and delves into some utterly depraved situations that kept me so very entertained. It’s one hell of an emotional rollercoaster ride that plunges us readers into a dark and wicked hole of immorality and perversity, and I loved every second of it.
The story is filled with angst, violence, blood, murder and mayhem, and with some harsh and possibly triggering moments for some readers. The characters are complex and brutal at times, but they definitely had my panties melting. I loved their darkness, their violence and their aggressive natures.
Fantastic writing that pulls you in right from the very start and keeps you hooked and consumed by the story right to the end. The imagery and details that were woven into each chapter brought the story to life on the pages.
Just know that this does not have your typical HEA but you will feel satisfied by the way it all ends.
WOW! Another phenomenal Malicious Gods story that kept me on the edge of my seat with anticipation of what was going to happen with each turn of the page. This story is dark and twisted and delves into some utterly depraved situations that kept me so very entertained. It’s one hell of an emotional rollercoaster ride that plunges us readers into a dark and wicked hole of immorality and perversity, and I loved every second of it.
The story is filled with angst, violence, blood, murder and mayhem, and with some harsh and possibly triggering moments for some readers. The characters are complex and brutal at times, but they definitely had my panties melting. I loved their darkness, their violence and their aggressive natures.
Fantastic writing that pulls you in right from the very start and keeps you hooked and consumed by the story right to the end. The imagery and details that were woven into each chapter brought the story to life on the pages.
Just know that this does not have your typical HEA but you will feel satisfied by the way it all ends.
August 20, 2021
Wow!! Another gem in this Malicious Gods: Egypt series!! I couldn't put it down, so good!!
Zivan is the bastard heir to a mafia dynasty. But he's not entirely sure if he wants to carry on the family occupation. He lives in the moment and spends all his time with his big cats and puppies.
Lev has dedicated his whole life to serving the god Maahes. He is on a mission and he knows that someone in Zivan's family is his target. In order to find out who it is, he is forced to spend time with Zivan. These two have very different lives, but opposites do attract. Sparks fly, bones break, and so on!!
I couldn't put this one down until I finished it. I had to find out how these two would finally get together. Along the way there is a lot of blood spilled. This isn't hearts and flowers, but blood and guts. I highly recommend this one. It's hard to believe at times, but these two do get a HEA.
Zivan is the bastard heir to a mafia dynasty. But he's not entirely sure if he wants to carry on the family occupation. He lives in the moment and spends all his time with his big cats and puppies.
Lev has dedicated his whole life to serving the god Maahes. He is on a mission and he knows that someone in Zivan's family is his target. In order to find out who it is, he is forced to spend time with Zivan. These two have very different lives, but opposites do attract. Sparks fly, bones break, and so on!!
I couldn't put this one down until I finished it. I had to find out how these two would finally get together. Along the way there is a lot of blood spilled. This isn't hearts and flowers, but blood and guts. I highly recommend this one. It's hard to believe at times, but these two do get a HEA.
August 19, 2022
Živan and Lev are so different, yet so much alike.
An assassin prowls; a hedonist his prey.
Tables turn; darkness reigns.
Who is the hunter; who the prey?
If you are looking for the hero, the good guy, you've got the wrong book.
Blood, violence, darkness...that is your reward in this deliciously dark read.
Be aware, triggers abound - violence, gore, blood, non-con - you get the picture. This one is not for the weak or easily triggered.
If you are looking for a walk on the dark and wild side, I definitely recommend this book!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
An assassin prowls; a hedonist his prey.
Tables turn; darkness reigns.
Who is the hunter; who the prey?
If you are looking for the hero, the good guy, you've got the wrong book.
Blood, violence, darkness...that is your reward in this deliciously dark read.
Be aware, triggers abound - violence, gore, blood, non-con - you get the picture. This one is not for the weak or easily triggered.
If you are looking for a walk on the dark and wild side, I definitely recommend this book!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
August 9, 2021
Živan and Lev are so different, yet so much alike.
An assassin prowls; a hedonist his prey.
Tables turn; darkness reigns.
Who is the hunter; who the prey?
If you are looking for the hero, the good guy, you've got the wrong book.
Blood, violence, darkness...that is your reward in this deliciously dark read.
Be aware, triggers abound - violence, gore, blood, non-con - you get the picture. This one is not for the weak or easily triggered.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
An assassin prowls; a hedonist his prey.
Tables turn; darkness reigns.
Who is the hunter; who the prey?
If you are looking for the hero, the good guy, you've got the wrong book.
Blood, violence, darkness...that is your reward in this deliciously dark read.
Be aware, triggers abound - violence, gore, blood, non-con - you get the picture. This one is not for the weak or easily triggered.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
August 10, 2021
Really great dark mm story
I love when authors combine to write in one world especially when I get to find new authors to read. I had heard of Emma Jaye before but never read any of her books. I will definitely be looking into reading more. This is a deliciously twisted and very enjoyable book. The two main characters couldn’t be more different and they come together and definitely clash. They end up helping each other and have if not happily ever after at least having a relationship even if it is rather different than most people. I really enjoyed this book.
I love when authors combine to write in one world especially when I get to find new authors to read. I had heard of Emma Jaye before but never read any of her books. I will definitely be looking into reading more. This is a deliciously twisted and very enjoyable book. The two main characters couldn’t be more different and they come together and definitely clash. They end up helping each other and have if not happily ever after at least having a relationship even if it is rather different than most people. I really enjoyed this book.
August 26, 2022
This story is incredibly dark so heed any trigger warnings and steer clear if that’s not your thing.
That said, I love to read captive/captor, primal and dub/non-con fiction and this had it all.
It did take me a little while to grasp the cult/religious aspects but it becomes clearer and was not enough to spoil anything.
The ending was somewhat unexpected but fits exactly with the story. So is it a HEA? I guess that’s open to interpretation and you will only be able to decide once you have read it - which I recommend.
That said, I love to read captive/captor, primal and dub/non-con fiction and this had it all.
It did take me a little while to grasp the cult/religious aspects but it becomes clearer and was not enough to spoil anything.
The ending was somewhat unexpected but fits exactly with the story. So is it a HEA? I guess that’s open to interpretation and you will only be able to decide once you have read it - which I recommend.
July 29, 2021
My first Malicious Gods book (not my last), but not my first book this amazing author! I just love this authors writing style, so dark and delicious. Filled with primal kink, stalking, kidnapping, assassins and so much more!
"Life had been so much simpler in the temple, so black and white. At the back of his mind, he tried not to admit that he loved the color Živan had brought to his life."
Maahes is a dark af story, but one hell of an emotional roller-coaster! With twist and turns you don't see coming!
"Life had been so much simpler in the temple, so black and white. At the back of his mind, he tried not to admit that he loved the color Živan had brought to his life."
Maahes is a dark af story, but one hell of an emotional roller-coaster! With twist and turns you don't see coming!
August 15, 2021
Dark and brilliant.
I absolutely freakin loved this book! It’s wonderfully twisted and quite dark, there’s blood, violence and seriously steamy times.
I love when a book feels well researched and this one does, in fact the beginning of the book may be a bit “factual” for some, but once the story gets going I had a hard time putting it down. I will not even attempt to describe the story itself, I will recommend you read it instead, it’s so well written and fits perfectly in the Malicious Gods of Egypt universe.
I absolutely freakin loved this book! It’s wonderfully twisted and quite dark, there’s blood, violence and seriously steamy times.
I love when a book feels well researched and this one does, in fact the beginning of the book may be a bit “factual” for some, but once the story gets going I had a hard time putting it down. I will not even attempt to describe the story itself, I will recommend you read it instead, it’s so well written and fits perfectly in the Malicious Gods of Egypt universe.
September 1, 2022
I loved the book. Keeping the fantastical elements balanced with the crime family upheaval and throwing in assassins in a dark romance setting sounded like it might be too much but it was perfect. The pace was brilliant as was the reveal of various character definitions, sometimes as if the character himself is discovering an Aspect of himself along with u. it was an intense book and unrelatable in many ways which isn’t a bad thing because it was throughly entertaining, heart-melting and touching in places and so unexpectedly hot.
August 9, 2021
Religious zealot assassin, Lev meets Bulgarian mobster, Zivan in this enemies to lovers, opposites attract
m/m story. Zivan has the Tiger King beaten hands down - he takes on wild beasts both animal and human and always wins until Lev. Which is the hunter, which is the prey? Can they both fill both roles? A superb entry in this dark series.
m/m story. Zivan has the Tiger King beaten hands down - he takes on wild beasts both animal and human and always wins until Lev. Which is the hunter, which is the prey? Can they both fill both roles? A superb entry in this dark series.
August 9, 2021
A dark romance worth reading! The book gives you a very detailed background to set the story so I didn’t miss any when the plot thickened. There is a world of pain, deceit and manipulation. Levi and Z are a couple like no other. I enjoyed the author’s writing, it’s unique and deliciously depraved. There’s not a traditional happy ending but you’ll be satisfied with it.
August 29, 2022
After some deliberation, I gave this book 4 stars. 2 reasons. The first is because the first chapters develop very slowly with lots of footnotes which took me out of the story. I know it is vital to set the scene but I almost gave up reading this, which would have meant missing out on a truly epic, though very dark, novel. Then, after investing so much in these flawed characters, both the good(!) and the bad, the second reason. The epilogue flew by very quickly with a not quite satisfactory ending. I hope it was left as a (maybe) HFN so that a second book can be written sometime in the future ...hint, hint.
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