Novice Of The Afterlife

The Apprentice of Anubis #3

by Laura Greenwood

With no idea whom to trust, Ani knows it's up to her and Nik to uncover the corruption in the temple.As a trainee priestess, Ani's life has been far from boring, and now she has to face the fact that her superiors are ignoring missing bodies.

Despite the changing nature of her relationship with Nik, she knows working with him is the only way she's going to get to the bottom of the mysterious disappearances of the dead, and put a stop to them before the wrong person finds out.

Ani has decisions to make, and they're not getting any easier. At least she has her trusty sacred jackal by her side to help.

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Novice Of The Afterlife is book 3 in the Apprentice Of Anubis, an urban fantasy series based on Egyptian mythology and featuring a slow-burn friends-to-lovers workplace romantic subplot, a jackal familiar, and the duties of an embalmer.If you love Egyptian mythology, alternative versions of the modern day, temple politics, slow-burn workplace romance, and a world where the gods are real, then start the Apprentice Of Anubis series today with Apprentice Of The Dead.

Genres: Fantasy, Paranormal

182 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 1, 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

[Jeanny · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 stars. & this is where the series ends for me. It’s currently a 12 book series that’s $5 for under 150 pages each book. It seems like a waste of money for an incredibly average read.

[Ash J · Rating 5 out of 5]

Surprisingly, I am absolutely enjoying all of Laura Greenwood's books about Egyptian mythology. In this third book in the 'Apprentice of Anubis' series. We find out that there are a lot more things going on than we initially thought. There are still missing bodies which adds mystery and adventure. There is a romantic element with Nik and the story was nice and easy to follow. I love Laura Greenwood's books because they are each a very enjoyable read. Now I can't wait for the next one in this series!

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

[Debbie Eyre · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book three in the Apprentice of Anubis series and it’s every bit as good as the rest! Ani and Nik are back In this modern Egyptian influenced world and The mystery and suspense continues to grow. Theres romance, drama, twists and turns and a few surprises making this a fun quick read and a great addition to this incredible series.

[Crystalclearwpg · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ani and Nik thought their troubles were over with when they help with the scandal of missing blessed amulets but trouble seem to like knocking on their door because they are once again within the middle of another mystery plaguing the Anubis temple they work at. Ani is also trying to juggle her training of mummifications, learning the roles of being Blessed while also trying to establish relationships with the people she works with. This series is moving smoothly and I am toughly enjoying reading it.

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

[Nathalie Bookwurm · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Apprentice of Anubis by Laura Greenwood blends historical fantasy, romance, and mystery in an engaging way. In this installment, Ani has successfully completed her first year as an apprentice, marking a significant milestone in her journey. With this achievement, she earns the privilege of witnessing a traditional mummification, an essential aspect of her training that deepens her connection to her role.

However, not everything is straightforward. The ongoing investigation into the missing bodies continues to be a central conflict, keeping both Ani and Nik occupied. Their partnership in solving this mystery strengthens their bond, but there is also an underlying tension between them. The "weirdness" in their relationship suggests lingering unresolved feelings or personal struggles that add depth to their interactions.

In the midst of all this, Ani makes an important personal decision—she chooses to end things with the prince. Despite any initial attraction, she realizes that he isn’t the one for her, and she lacks the deep emotional connection she needs in a relationship. This choice highlights Ani’s growth and self-awareness, showing that she isn’t willing to settle for something that doesn’t feel right.

The real emotional turning point comes when Ani and Nik finally kiss. The moment is powerful and affirming—it feels right, solidifying what has been building between them. Their chemistry is undeniable, and the kiss marks the beginning of their official relationship. This development is not only satisfying for fans of the romance element but also adds a new dynamic to their partnership, especially as they continue investigating the missing bodies.

Overall, the book balances its historical and supernatural elements well, while also delivering a compelling romance. Ani’s

[Katheyer · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Novice of the Afterlife” is the third instalment in the “Apprentice of Anubis” by Laura Greenwood, a modern mythology/paranormal series heavily based on Ancient Egyptian Mythology, set in London in an alternative Verse where the Ancient Egyptian Empire never ceased to exist.

The series follows Ani, the first Anubis-Blessed in a very long time, and her jackal familiar. After having successfully prevented the conspiracy that threated to destroy the temple (Book 1), Ani managed again to discover the disappearance of a body, just before her mummification test (Book 2), now Ani has to realize that her superiors keep on ignoring bodies going missing all over again. Her relationship with Nik went from complicated to convoluted, but as much as Ani would like to stay apart, Nik is the key to get to the bottom of the mystery of the body disappearances before it is too late, and her apprenticeship comes to an end.

Making Ancient Egypt relatable and fun for everyone might be a very difficult feat for most, but surely not for Greenwood. Her story imbues one of the most feared and awe-inspiring Ancient Egyptian Gods with a character and personality of his own, that goes much further than her mythological role as the psychopomp of dead. In her fantasy world Greenwood shows the human face of the Ancient Egypt cult as background to a m/f romantic story. A fully satisfactory, interesting, and quick read, for all fans of Ancient Egypt romantic mysteries.

[Annette · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just like most readers, I assume, I thought that this was gonna be the last book in this series, but it was quite clear when reading that a lot of things were not gonna get resolved in this one book. I don't mind. The more books in this world, the better! I will, just like with this book, try to get an arc from BookSprout as soon as it's available.

The case of the disappearing bodies is a little on pause in this book. Not because the characters are not thinking about it anymore, on the contrary - there are quite a few scenes where they're clearly trying to find a way to prove what's happening and how they can stop it, but simply because there is another storyline that demands all their attention: their relationship.

Of course it was quite clear from the beginning of this series what the endgame was gonna be, but it was also quit clear that it was not gonna be easy. In this book some hard choices are made and I'm already looking forward to see the consequences and how our heroine will eventually deal with them. I'm sure Greenwood is not gonna let this go this easily, unfortunately.

However, I'm quite happy that the air between our main characters has cleared, that they've talked everything out and that they now know where they stand. If the rest of the story couldn't be dealt with in this book, and maybe not even in the next one either, they're absolutely and totally gonna need each other to deal with what's to come.

[Andra Shaw · Rating 4 out of 5]

Novice of the Afterlife is the third book in the Apprentice of Anubis series. The books in the series are not standalone stories, and I suggest reading them in order. Although set in modern times, the books present an alternate reality in which the Roman empire fell to Egypt. The names of cities, people, currency, etc., are a mix of what we currently know them and Egyptian influence. These elements add to the compelling nature of the series.

In the third book, we find Nik and Ani still embroiled in the mystery of the stolen bodies, and that mystery only deepens and worsens. The issues in the temple seem to be growing in intensity, and Ani and Nik may have to do something desperate to put an end to what equates to grave robbing.

With a growing mystery, a budding romance, twists, drama, a little action, and a touch of supernatural-paranormal themes, Apprentice of Anubis is intensely engaging. It is a page-turner with compelling characters who are believable, relatable, honest, and young. The series would make a fun television series.

Though the books in The Apprentice of Anubis series are probably geared to teens and very young adults, I thoroughly enjoy them. I pre-ordered the next book in the series, Priestess of the Tombs, and it does not come out until July. I look forward to reading it!

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

[Sandra A · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, another great book by Laura Greenwood! I initially got sucked into this series after reading her first book, Apprentice of the Dead. That book was so good, I immediately bought the next one, Initiate of the Jackal. This is the 3rd book, and it's just as good as the others. In this one, Ani and Nik follow up on their investigation into missing bodies in the Temple of Anubis. Ani uses her powers as a Blessed of Anubis to help determine what is going on. Despite the fact that they are investigating on their own and could be blamed for any problems if they are caught, they are willing to take the chance, based on their own convictions that justice must be served. Along with all of this, Ani must deal with her feelings about Ramesses and Nik. The writing is excellent, and it's fascinating to see how the author intertwines facts about Egyptian life along with how that might fit in with the modern world. Readers must be aware that this is a series, and that not everything is resolved in this book (plus it'll help if you've read the previous books before reading this one, though there is a synopsis in the beginning). However, all of the books have been so interesting that I've read each of the books in one sitting, and am now anxiously awaiting the next book! I did receive an ARC copy of this book, but the opinions expressed are solely my own.

[Laura Moylan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nikare, Ani and their class have completed their first year at the Temple of Anubis. It is time for them to become part of the priesthood and say their vows. Now they begin to do more mummifications - both the old way and the new. They do more than just the embalming now and gathering the amulets. Or the cleaning of the bodies. No is where things start to get harder and more interesting. Nik and Ani are spending more of their free time together and Matia, Ani’s jackal loves playing with him. Ani finally speaks up for herself with the Prince and that doesn’t end well.

They find out another problem at the Temple. It’s funny that they are the only ones who notice anything. Makes you wonder if all of the priests that are above them are in on some scam using the Temple to make extra money. I love Nik and Ani and Matia. I like most of their class mates too. I’m proud of them for what they decide to do with the new information they find out at the end of the book. But, I’m worried about the upper priests’ response to it. Who knows how far up all the money making scams taking place in the Temple? That just makes me worry about them.

The book was fascinating once again and I can’ wait to read the next book! I’m having a lot of fun reading this series.

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

[Manuela Molteni · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Novice of the Afterlife, book #3 of The Apprentice of Anubis series, Ani and Nik dive headfirst into yet another mystery within the Temple. This time, it’s not just missing bodies but missing amulets from the mummified bodies. Someone's up to no good, and our dynamic duo isn’t about to let it slide.
Ani's discovery of her Blessed powers and magic adds a thrilling layer to the story, making her journey even more captivating. And can we talk about the budding romance between Ani and Nik? Finally, sparks are flying, and their relationship is taking a delightful turn towards the romantic side. It’s about time!
Of course, my beloved Matia, the sacred Jackal, is ever-present, adding her own charm and wit to the mix. Her antics never fail to bring a smile to my face, and her loyalty to Ani is heartwarming.
Laura Greenwood's Novice of the Afterlife continues to build on the intriguing blend of ancient Egyptian lore and modern-day mysteries. The plot twists and shenanigans keep you hooked, and the characters' development, especially Ani's, is a joy to witness.
The series is becoming funnier and more interesting with each page. If you’re in for more magic, mystery, and a dash of romance, this book will not disappoint. Can't wait to see what Ani, Nik, and Matia get up to next, more so now that they have been ordained, at last!

[Kristin · Rating 5 out of 5]

In book 3 the whole class is learning about the full on traditional mummification process. Even though it's earlier than most students would have learned this. I do believe it's Hori who switched it up for reasons I'll explain later.
Ani and Nik sure have a knack for finding corruption in the Temple of Anubis. This time it isn't missing bodies though and it's not where just anyone can commit the crimes. See, the traditional way is mainly for the wealthy and involves real jewels. With Ani's Blessed powers, she noticed something wasn't right with one of the bodies. True to form, she tells Nik and they sneak back in when everyone has gone. They come to find out that the jewels the dead are wrapped with have been stolen from multiple bodies and replaced with wooden ones. Very disrespectful of the dead and Anubis.
Enter Hori whom they confide in. He in no uncertain terms tell them that Nik's dad, High Priest Ahomse, probably knows but turns a blind eye to many things in the temple. He nudges them in a different route. They take all they have learned to Ma'at's priestesses and priests and now the waiting ensues.
Great book! I couldn't put it down!

[Marcela · Rating 3 out of 5]

I recently read the first three books of The Apprentice of Anubis series by Laura Greenwood (Apprentice of the Dead, Initiate of the Jackal, and Novice of the Afterlife). As someone who loves ancient Egypt, I was initially drawn to the premise, hoping for an immersive experience that blended Egyptian mythology with a gripping storyline.

While the series does a good job of incorporating elements of Egyptian culture and mythology, it wasn’t quite what I was expecting. The plot felt slower-paced than I’d hoped, and the character development didn’t fully engage me. I appreciated the unique take on an alternative Egyptian empire, but I found myself wanting a deeper exploration of the world and more complexity in the narrative.

Unfortunately, after the third book, I didn’t feel compelled to continue the series. While it has potential and might appeal to readers who enjoy lighter urban fantasy with an Egyptian twist, it didn’t fully capture the depth and excitement I was looking for.

[Douglas Williamson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Our heroine is concerned when her superiors seem to be ignoring a major problem. Is she the only one that sees it, or is it part of something bigger? And if so, who can she trust with the matter?

This is book three of the series. It does pretty well as a standalone, although you will be missing some of the background. 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, another great entry in the series.

Highly recommended

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

[TaniaRina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Authenticity or safety?
Mummification has come a long way when there are so many options from which to choose. There’re various “packages” based in timeframes, quality & number of amulets, level of embalming, number of organs removed, etc. Laundry bags even have biohazard hieroglyphs!
London offers a controlled-desert for a more authentic experience:
"Isn't it ironic that natural mummification is done in an artificial environment?"

Fave part (during ordination):
"And do you vow to practice obedience towards your superior priests?"
Well, I can't say I have a good track record with that one, but I'll certainly try.


Will Ani and Nik uncover more ‘Secrets Of The Chosen’ in the next book?

[Victoria Golby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Novice Of The Afterlife

In this 3rd book in the “Apprentice of Anubis” series Ani and Nik are still investigating the bodies which are disappearing from the temple morgue. Particularly after his father, the High Priest of Anubis, seems to be doing nothing about it.

This is all happening while they are learning about traditional mummification and waiting for their ordination as priests/priestesses on the 1st anniversary of becoming apprentices.

I enjoyed reading this and look forward to the next in the series.

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

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

As the end of their first year of training approaches, Ani and her fellow apprentices are given training in the traditional mummification techniques. Ani & Nik discover that the corruption in the temple is more widespread and that Nick’s father, the High Priest, is turning a blind eye. While they struggle with the implications of this, both feel that their loyalty to Anubis is their highest priority. Meanwhile, with Prince Ramesses in Egypt, Ani has clarity on her feelings for him. With Neffie’s encouragement, she finds the courage to end things. But has she made a dangerous and powerful enemy in the process? Ani & Nik become closer and finally admit their feeling towards each other, to the surprise of no one around them. Facing the future together, after their ordination into the priesthood, they make a decision that could tear the Temple apart.

Book 3 of The Apprentice of Anubis series continues training Ani & her friends in their service to their gods. They have completed their first year and are now junior priests, but still have a long way to go. Ani is a strong and likable character who struggles with what it means to be Blessed and to serve Anubis faithfully. She relies on the council of her friends and mentors, but always chooses the right thing over the easy thing. Nic’s disillusionment of his father continues and he must come to terms with betraying him to serve his god and temple. With her expert world-building and tight plotting, Ms. Greenwood has created a fascinating glimpse of an alternate world where Egypt reigns supreme.

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

[Leah · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm so glad this series is extending and will no longer be a trilogy. It's been a quite a year for Ani. I love seeing her learn and grow. And I really enjoy the mix of modern times with Egyptian mythology.

It's nice to see her support system. Of course there is plenty of Nik, and Matia. And Neffie is especially great for those BFF reality checks. But I also like that we get to see so many glimpses of her fellow apprentices.

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

[Savannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ani and Nik find themselves in the middle of another mystery in the temple once again. Someone is tampering with the dead and it's up to them to figure out who and stop it. With feelings and friendships changing, will they be able to stay together and help the temple? Read to find out. This is a series that is very dear to my heart. I love Egyptian Mythology and all of the gods. Seeing it in this modern setting is wonderful. . I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This modern mythology/paranormal series heavily based on Ancient Egyptian Mythology is set in London with exceptional characters, Ani and Nik, who are on an enthralling, mysterious journey in the temple again. Their journey is full of adventure, fun, mystery, Egyptian artifacts, mythological elements, and more. I recommend reading this mysterious book by an extraordinary author that knows how to entertain and captivate her reader's hearts and minds. I received this book for a fair and honest review via BookSprout.

[Wanda Jewell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is part of a series that has a great twist on the story being set in an alternate history where Egypt's culture has spread throughout the known world. The story is set in London. Anna is the blessed of Anubis. Nik is the son of the High Priest of Anubis. Both of them are bound for trouble as they have discovered missing bodies. The world building is great for a romance and the characters are very well written. I LOVED the story and would highly recommend it.

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

[Kristen Lewendon · Rating 4 out of 5]

As the mystery in the Temple of Anubis gets deeper and more complex, at least Ani’s personal life untangles itself a bit. Though, that might bring new and unexpected complications with it. I’m loving the sweetness of the developing relationship with Nik and I can’t wait to see how things progress from here. I’m also fascinated by Ani’s growing Blessed powers and I’m very curious to learn more about everything she’ll be able to do.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Booksprout.

[DeeDeeWReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Does Ani want to continue 'dating' Ramesses or not? How does she and Nik really feel about each other? What is going on in the temple and why isn't someone doing something about it? Another mystery to solve in this one.

Graduation is coming fast, will everyone graduate and become priests and priestess? There's also a 'wedding' in this, and that was fun to read about.

Fun read, getting good, the ending leaves us wanting more and wondering what will happen!.

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

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Next in the series - book 3.
Next in the series where bodies continue to turn up missing but only to reappear without their original amulets. So that mystery remains. Ani concludes her Blessed training which is uneventful. She severs her arrangement with Prince Ramesses, which is interesting. The first year have reached to become ordained priests. The most significant is Nik and Ani’s slow burn romance. Although uneventful overall, the story continues.

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

[Christinaraven · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ani and Nik are back for another fun time as priests of Anubis. Tough decisions must be made this time around as Ani tries to figure out exactly what she wants. It was another cute fun chapter in the life of Ani. A entertaining look at an alternate London with a clean story and that interesting mystery of what is happening in the temple. Had to see what Ani and Nik would discover this time around.

[Christina Sneeringer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Egyptian mythology transformed so many times because Egyptian culture spanned such a long time, which makes using it for the basis of a story more complicated but vastly interesting. I am a great lover of mythology and love when I find an author that can weave a myth into something new and exciting. Ms. Greenwood does an amazing job with the story of Ani and Nik.

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

[Ken Thompson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another wonderful job from Laura Greenwood. She just keeps cranking them out.
Novice Of The Afterlife is book three 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.. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Anne Dwyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ani and Nik are at the end of their year's apprenticeship and about to become Priest and Priestess of Anubis - but they know that someone is stealing the amulets from the dead. Is Nik's father involved? Will they be able to find the culprit?
I have thoroughly enjoyed the books in this series and look forward to reading the next one!.

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

[Anita Fuhrmann · Rating 4 out of 5]

The compelling and ongoing storyline centered in Ancient Greece has the MC continuing to try to solve the mystery that began in the first book and has continued to serve as the focal point in every book of the series. Add in some twists and turns along with paranormal abilities and you will become hooked and want to continue reading to find out how everything works out! Bring on the next book!

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