What do you think?
Rate this book
Elysian Gods #1
Of Gods & Monsters
“I don’t think getting to know me that intimately is part of the job description,” I whispered in her ear, amused by the salacious thoughts. Who’d have guessed the stiff in the lab coat would have such a dirty mind? “Let me make this clear. I would never touch a filthy mortal like you in such a way.”
Dr Quentin Scott doesn’t believe in the Gods. Forsaken at every turn of her life, she refuses to kneel before them and beg for scraps. But when she is recruited the E.L.I project, Quen is forced to come face to face with the Gods she detests.
Grayson, God of Chaos, never wanted to be part of the project. He would happily spend his days in Upper Elysia, watching the madness he created unfold amongst the mortals, but he’s outnumbered. When he’s paired with a disrespectful nonbeliever, Gray’s temper leads his every action. And then he senses the chaos that lies beneath the pretty façade, and he vows to break her.
As Grayson and Quentin lock horns over the smallest things, something sparks between them. But a spark can become a raging inferno in the blink of an eye and the damage done may be irreparable. When secrets start to emerge that could shift the balance of powers in Elysia, decisions must be made and there’s no such thing as an easy choice.
The Gods have come to play but it’s a dangerous game. Who can you trust?
*This book contains sexually explicit scenes, mature language, discussion of deceased parents and a train accident and OM/OW drama. Not intended for readers below 18. Reader discretion is advised.*
457 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 16, 2021
90 people are currently reading
3786 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 158 reviews
April 15, 2024
4.5 Copper Cuff Stars ⭐
Spicy Level: 🌶️🌶️.5/5
I don't believe in fate. I don't believe in coincidence. But when three of your friends beg you to put a book on your TBR and you make a statement to say, "Sure, I'll read this next" knowing that you probably won't because you've got 156 other books on your TBR and you need to give THOSE BOOKS A FAIR CHANCE... but when you add the book 5 mins before the choice is made and the BOOK YOU JUST ADDED is CHOSEN...Fate and coincidence do get questioned...
(Note - I don't pick my next read off my TBR, my Husband does based on names I give him in a random order)
I had high expectations that I was going to love this. And I love it when expectations meet reality.
This is a Dual POV following Dr Quentin Scott and Grayson (Gray). Quentin is a successful scientist who has been allocated to a research program that is studying the Gods in helping them assimilate into Human Society. Twelve Elite Gods have come down to Earth and Gray, the God of Choas is not happy. But something about Quentin intrigues him and he only agrees to cooperate if she is assigned to him. Now she has to deal with his Chaos and shadow daddy charm as well as her own undeniable explosive attraction to him.
The writing was captivating and instantly drew me in. I legitimately knew by page 25 that I was going to love this when we were first introduced to Gray and his dramatic entrance. His actions, explosive manipulative behaviour and charm made me instantly fall for his personality and instantly LOVE HIM. Though he is not what I expected. In the beginning, he comes off as pretty selfish, spoiled and entitled. And whilst those are definite themes that remain with his personality, he is also kind, caring, and cares about the people in his circle. He would also do anything and everything for them. He has a heart of gold (or at least half gold) and while you have to see it beneath his dark shadowy exterior, he makes for such a beautifully developed character.
Quentin is determined. That is the most apt word I would pick to describe her. She has an intrinsic need to focus and succeed in life, often at a detriment to her relationships and the people around her because she is so easy to pull herself into her work and only dedicate herself to her work. She hasn't formed that many meaningful connections in life. She also tends to react quite easily to her emotions, which can make situations extremely heated and tense, especially when it comes to Gray. They are an explosion of fireworks, chemistry, primal need and chaos when brought together. But as with most emotional situations, logic flies out the window and she does not always make the right decisions. She is also incredibly stubborn and resolute in her belief (and not belief).
Regarding the Worldbuilding... While I want to commend some part of this, as somebody who loves science, facts and research, it is often something that I dread seeing a book merge Science and Paranormal Fantasy, especially paranormal religious aspects because it can be done so badly. However, the blending into the world was believable and the lore easy to understand (though I did have to page back a few times to remember what each god was responsible for now and then). However, I wanted more into how their gifts work and how they respond to prayers and their Divine Jobs (this is brushed a little to the wayside and I think might be left for Book 2 but I wanted it NOW).
Besides Quen and Gray, there were compelling side characters like Charlie, Sloane, Eric and the secretive Archer... I adore Sloane and Eric and how sweet and cute and just adorable the two of them are. I love them. I love their family. I love their dynamic. And I loved how they just wanted to protect their family and Gray by extension.
This book is not entirely five stars to me because there are a couple of things that frustrated me. The first is, that I was not really sure what the main plot of the book was for the longest time. It doesn't feel like there was this big overarching target that they trying to get to. Normally there is some "Quest" or something that has to be solved, it was very much a research experiment and learning about the gods. While aspects are uncovered and there are developments, it felt almost very slice of life, which I didn't have a problem with, but there wasn't this big pull in a direction.
The second is elements or assumptions implied about the characters at the start that are not who they are. And this is not because of growth - for example. Quen is painted as this person ANGRY at the Gods and does not believe in them... Quite frankly, she was very indifferent. She didn't behave like she was angry - she just acted like she didn't care. So that underhanded anger is never really seen or shown. There are also aspects mentioned about how she has this underlying darkness and that is never elaborated much on. I felt like a carrot was dangled in front of me and just never given to me as it was brushed aside or forgotten.
Then...there is the cheating element... and my issue is just how Quentin handles these situations. As I mentioned her personality is very emotive so she is impulsive and acts on feelings and in the moment - to the detriment of those around her I wanted her to be a little more logical (because a scientist is logical) and mature and not be as spiteful and shortsighted on her actions in pursuit of personal gratification.
Trope Summary:
▶ Dual POV
▶ Meddling Gods
▶Enemies Hate to Lovers
▶ Unique Magic System
▶ Shadow Daddy
▶ Forbidden Romance
▶ Forced Proximity (Workplace and Roommates)
Microtropes:
▶ Hand Necklaces
▶ Subtle Under Table Touches
▶ Helps her Dress (Zips up her dress)
▶ Biting
▶ Pray to Me
Overall I enjoyed this. I cannot wait to get into the second book! Really if you want an unexpected romance pick this up!!!!
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
I have really basic needs.... and SOMEONE SAID THIS HAS A SHADOW DADDY!!!!!
Spicy Level: 🌶️🌶️.5/5
I don't believe in fate. I don't believe in coincidence. But when three of your friends beg you to put a book on your TBR and you make a statement to say, "Sure, I'll read this next" knowing that you probably won't because you've got 156 other books on your TBR and you need to give THOSE BOOKS A FAIR CHANCE... but when you add the book 5 mins before the choice is made and the BOOK YOU JUST ADDED is CHOSEN...Fate and coincidence do get questioned...
(Note - I don't pick my next read off my TBR, my Husband does based on names I give him in a random order)
I had high expectations that I was going to love this. And I love it when expectations meet reality.
This is a Dual POV following Dr Quentin Scott and Grayson (Gray). Quentin is a successful scientist who has been allocated to a research program that is studying the Gods in helping them assimilate into Human Society. Twelve Elite Gods have come down to Earth and Gray, the God of Choas is not happy. But something about Quentin intrigues him and he only agrees to cooperate if she is assigned to him. Now she has to deal with his Chaos and shadow daddy charm as well as her own undeniable explosive attraction to him.
The writing was captivating and instantly drew me in. I legitimately knew by page 25 that I was going to love this when we were first introduced to Gray and his dramatic entrance. His actions, explosive manipulative behaviour and charm made me instantly fall for his personality and instantly LOVE HIM. Though he is not what I expected. In the beginning, he comes off as pretty selfish, spoiled and entitled. And whilst those are definite themes that remain with his personality, he is also kind, caring, and cares about the people in his circle. He would also do anything and everything for them. He has a heart of gold (or at least half gold) and while you have to see it beneath his dark shadowy exterior, he makes for such a beautifully developed character.
Quentin is determined. That is the most apt word I would pick to describe her. She has an intrinsic need to focus and succeed in life, often at a detriment to her relationships and the people around her because she is so easy to pull herself into her work and only dedicate herself to her work. She hasn't formed that many meaningful connections in life. She also tends to react quite easily to her emotions, which can make situations extremely heated and tense, especially when it comes to Gray. They are an explosion of fireworks, chemistry, primal need and chaos when brought together. But as with most emotional situations, logic flies out the window and she does not always make the right decisions. She is also incredibly stubborn and resolute in her belief (and not belief).
Regarding the Worldbuilding... While I want to commend some part of this, as somebody who loves science, facts and research, it is often something that I dread seeing a book merge Science and Paranormal Fantasy, especially paranormal religious aspects because it can be done so badly. However, the blending into the world was believable and the lore easy to understand (though I did have to page back a few times to remember what each god was responsible for now and then). However, I wanted more into how their gifts work and how they respond to prayers and their Divine Jobs (this is brushed a little to the wayside and I think might be left for Book 2 but I wanted it NOW).
Besides Quen and Gray, there were compelling side characters like Charlie, Sloane, Eric and the secretive Archer... I adore Sloane and Eric and how sweet and cute and just adorable the two of them are. I love them. I love their family. I love their dynamic. And I loved how they just wanted to protect their family and Gray by extension.
This book is not entirely five stars to me because there are a couple of things that frustrated me. The first is, that I was not really sure what the main plot of the book was for the longest time. It doesn't feel like there was this big overarching target that they trying to get to. Normally there is some "Quest" or something that has to be solved, it was very much a research experiment and learning about the gods. While aspects are uncovered and there are developments, it felt almost very slice of life, which I didn't have a problem with, but there wasn't this big pull in a direction.
The second is elements or assumptions implied about the characters at the start that are not who they are. And this is not because of growth - for example. Quen is painted as this person ANGRY at the Gods and does not believe in them... Quite frankly, she was very indifferent. She didn't behave like she was angry - she just acted like she didn't care. So that underhanded anger is never really seen or shown. There are also aspects mentioned about how she has this underlying darkness and that is never elaborated much on. I felt like a carrot was dangled in front of me and just never given to me as it was brushed aside or forgotten.
Then...there is the cheating element... and my issue is just how Quentin handles these situations. As I mentioned her personality is very emotive so she is impulsive and acts on feelings and in the moment - to the detriment of those around her I wanted her to be a little more logical (because a scientist is logical) and mature and not be as spiteful and shortsighted on her actions in pursuit of personal gratification.
Trope Summary:
▶ Dual POV
▶ Meddling Gods
▶
▶ Unique Magic System
▶ Shadow Daddy
▶ Forbidden Romance
▶ Forced Proximity (Workplace and Roommates)
Microtropes:
▶ Hand Necklaces
▶ Subtle Under Table Touches
▶ Helps her Dress (Zips up her dress)
▶ Biting
▶ Pray to Me
Overall I enjoyed this. I cannot wait to get into the second book! Really if you want an unexpected romance pick this up!!!!
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
I have really basic needs.... and SOMEONE SAID THIS HAS A SHADOW DADDY!!!!!
May 26, 2022
(3,5 stars)
"I´m a realist, Gray. Love is a series of chemical reactions. It´s not some grand, sweeping gesture that people make it out to be. No soulmates or love at first sight. It´s two people having to work out if they should settle together and hoping it won´t completely implode and destroy them."
This is a two POV book, told by the POV´s of Grayson and Quentin.
Quentin is a stubborn and independent FMC who is also quite the carrier woman and has had a lot of success. Grayson behaves like an absolute selfish and arrogant ass throughout the first half of the book, so there was a lot of tension between them. Although he makes some serious character development and I really started liking him around the middle of the books, actually more than I liked Quen. I would describe the chemistry between them as more of an insta-lust than love and that is kept throughout 3/4 of the book.
Although I liked them as a couple, I really didn´t appreciate the cheating part of the book, especially after Quin has said multiple times that she "doesn´t want to be that woman". It is so against my morals and I also feel like it was unnecessary to the plot and didn´t add anything, so I deduct half a star here.
I liked the side characters, especially Sloan and Erik. They were such a cute couple and I loved their family. Most of them felt like they had depth to them and I really liked how some of their characters changed during the span of the book.
I liked the world building, although I would have loved to see more of Elysia, but maybe we get that in the second book. The system of gods and how they get their powers felt well thought through. Plotwise I also liked the mix of sciene and gods, and I would have loved if they gone a bit more into detail and played a bit more with it. The pacing felt good although the book got a tiny bit slow for me at the end.
Overall it was an interesting read that I kind of enjoyed. I am definitely excited to see where the second book will take this and how the story will continue.
trigger warnings: loss of a loved ones and cheating
"I´m a realist, Gray. Love is a series of chemical reactions. It´s not some grand, sweeping gesture that people make it out to be. No soulmates or love at first sight. It´s two people having to work out if they should settle together and hoping it won´t completely implode and destroy them."
This is a two POV book, told by the POV´s of Grayson and Quentin.
Quentin is a stubborn and independent FMC who is also quite the carrier woman and has had a lot of success. Grayson behaves like an absolute selfish and arrogant ass throughout the first half of the book, so there was a lot of tension between them. Although he makes some serious character development and I really started liking him around the middle of the books, actually more than I liked Quen. I would describe the chemistry between them as more of an insta-lust than love and that is kept throughout 3/4 of the book.
Although I liked them as a couple, I really didn´t appreciate the cheating part of the book, especially after Quin has said multiple times that she "doesn´t want to be that woman". It is so against my morals and I also feel like it was unnecessary to the plot and didn´t add anything, so I deduct half a star here.
I liked the side characters, especially Sloan and Erik. They were such a cute couple and I loved their family. Most of them felt like they had depth to them and I really liked how some of their characters changed during the span of the book.
I liked the world building, although I would have loved to see more of Elysia, but maybe we get that in the second book. The system of gods and how they get their powers felt well thought through. Plotwise I also liked the mix of sciene and gods, and I would have loved if they gone a bit more into detail and played a bit more with it. The pacing felt good although the book got a tiny bit slow for me at the end.
Overall it was an interesting read that I kind of enjoyed. I am definitely excited to see where the second book will take this and how the story will continue.
trigger warnings: loss of a loved ones and cheating
November 25, 2021
OH MY GOSH!! I NEED BOOK TWO NOW!!!!
This book is every bit deserving of a five start review.
Supernatural beings—check!
Super Smart Female MC—check!
Chemistry—check
Dynamic characters—CHECK!
AMAZING WRITING—CHECK, CHECK, CHECK!!!
I really enjoyed the twists and turns this book took and the way it ended leaving me wanting the next book ASAP!
If I had one thing I was not so crazy about was the “hot and cold” the two MCs seemed to keep playing with each other. It starts to ware on you, for sure. In am also very much against cheating; even in my fiction. So there were a few parts that I would have perhaps edited.
Overall, I think this is an amazing book and can’t wait to get my hands on the second one!!!
This book is every bit deserving of a five start review.
Supernatural beings—check!
Super Smart Female MC—check!
Chemistry—check
Dynamic characters—CHECK!
AMAZING WRITING—CHECK, CHECK, CHECK!!!
I really enjoyed the twists and turns this book took and the way it ended leaving me wanting the next book ASAP!
If I had one thing I was not so crazy about was the “hot and cold” the two MCs seemed to keep playing with each other. It starts to ware on you, for sure. In am also very much against cheating; even in my fiction. So there were a few parts that I would have perhaps edited.
Overall, I think this is an amazing book and can’t wait to get my hands on the second one!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 29, 2021
2 stars because of the cliffhanger ending and the cheating and the length.
It kept me invested and reading despite that the cheating was stupid and the story predictable. The sex was hot and the growth of the relationship between the main characters was touching.
But it ended on a cliffhanger. Ugh.
And the length was insane. At 54% I was shocked I was only in the middle. This book took forever to read. And I stuck with it because I wanted a happy ending to it. But it was a freaking cliffhanger in which the main couple end up separated.
So no thanks. I’m out.
Update: I wanted to expand on the predictability of the plot. Every single thing was predictable and I can right now set my predictions for books two and three:
- Our heroine spends the book being manipulated by Archer who is 100% the person who hit her with his car. She will discover all of Gray’s secrets and the distance between them will grow. The end of the book will establish battle lines for the coming conflict between the Elite gods and the minor ones as well as a subplot where Gray plots to overthrow Hunter and win back Quentin’s love.
- In book 3, the heroine will use her new powers to help overthrow the Elites and then discovering Archer is worse than Hunter as a leader, help Grayson overthrow Archer and become King.
Someone tag me when they read the final two books and let me know how close I was.
So not happy with this book.
It kept me invested and reading despite that the cheating was stupid and the story predictable. The sex was hot and the growth of the relationship between the main characters was touching.
But it ended on a cliffhanger. Ugh.
And the length was insane. At 54% I was shocked I was only in the middle. This book took forever to read. And I stuck with it because I wanted a happy ending to it. But it was a freaking cliffhanger in which the main couple end up separated.
So no thanks. I’m out.
Update: I wanted to expand on the predictability of the plot. Every single thing was predictable and I can right now set my predictions for books two and three:
- Our heroine spends the book being manipulated by Archer who is 100% the person who hit her with his car. She will discover all of Gray’s secrets and the distance between them will grow. The end of the book will establish battle lines for the coming conflict between the Elite gods and the minor ones as well as a subplot where Gray plots to overthrow Hunter and win back Quentin’s love.
- In book 3, the heroine will use her new powers to help overthrow the Elites and then discovering Archer is worse than Hunter as a leader, help Grayson overthrow Archer and become King.
Someone tag me when they read the final two books and let me know how close I was.
So not happy with this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 17, 2021
Seriously. There will SERIOUSLY be spoilers. I'm pretty much incapable of reviewing without them.
2.75-3 stars.
Okay, condoms on: I'm going in.
Firstly, the cover is GORGEOUS dah-ling. Simply stunning. Everything about it makes me want to know what this book is. It got me, hook, line and sinker. It promises sexy mystery and fantasy beyond my wildest imagination. The question is: did it deliver?
The writing in terms of technicality was pretty much faultless. Dialogue flowed, the descriptions were vivid and illustrative. This author is a very talented writer, I will give her that.
Now onto my cornucopia of issues.
Starting with the fact that this book was longer than my life expectancy. Good gods.
The first half of the book was pretty good. I was engaged, I was RUNNING through this book, with my woes. I enjoyed the push and pull although there was more push than pull and Quen was a little more pathetic in the face of it than I would have liked. But my standards are super high when it comes to the art of the cold shoulder, so I'll give it a pass. She didn't give in easily at the start though, I'll give her that, especially when faced with an adversary who was superior in every sense, what with him being a damn DEITY.
Grayson is THE chaos god and in the first half of the book is just the worst. I wanted someone to lightly stab him, which works out. He definitely embodied the role.
Then the 35% mark came and it got a little...tepid. The banging didn't feel like... FINALLY I've wanted this for so long, if they didn't kiss I'd DIE...It hadn't been drawn out enough for me to be CRAVING it. It wasn't instant by any means, but the tension hadn't been drawn out enough for me to be DYING. Their relationship wasn't developed enough for my liking. I wanted to see a little more to them before they finally gave in to the supposed PULL between them. Also the fact that he had just kissed some other random IMMEDIATELY before kissing her and she ALLOWED that sh*t?! Pour the bleach into my mouth please and thank you. Damn at LEAST give it a couple of days. Y'all gon' make me throw UP.
Also it felt less like reading about gods and more like a romantic drama. Yeah they went to Elysia and there was a gifting ceremony etc. But the fantastical aspect of it wasn't at the forefront as I hoped it would be. It didn't feel... larger than life, something was missing in that respect. Also they're both super petty in an extremely irritating way. Example:
'“No other man is to ever touch you! Have I made myself clear?” I roared.' Like relax b*tch. Be cool. You look desperate.
“Why not?” she screamed. “What do you care?”
Sorry to interrupt this disgusting display of nonsense, but what? What are you talking about? Haven't you both decided you're in a relationship with each other? What is this silly ass sh*t? And you with the penis, I know you're a chaos god but SURELY you don't always have to be yelling? Ugh, I'm surrounded by idiots. They're so annoyingly immature and it BOGGLES my mind, surely an accomplished scientist and ancient deity would have a lot more common sense? Emotional maturity? No? Am I the dumb one?
I start out rooting for Quentin and end up wanting her to be bundled into the bin. You're mad about Gray not wanting any men who show romantic interest around you, because he loves you for whatever reason and then when some minor god and your EX- FIANCE turn up, you keep wandering off with these dudes, and when he gets mad at your cheating ass, you're CONFUSED? OUTRAGED?? Hello? Are you normal? I understand that conflict drives a plot forward, but these are truly acerebral and easily avoided... unless you're a flaming chud-monkey with zero brain activity.
"Why was I sitting here with Ethan? Why did I agree to talk to him?"
YOU TELL ME! IN FACT, YELL IT INTO THIS MEGAPHONE SO WE CAN ALL HEAR.
I feel like Archer could have been a more intriguing, charismatic character if they hadn't had him borderline STALKING Quen or at least being a lot less creepy about it. Furthermore, WHY DOES SHE NOT TELL GRAY ABOUT THE DAMN DREAMS?? Is this b*tch dumb?? It felt like he just sort of appeared in the story and because of this, he felt slightly disconnected in a sense.
It is mentioned in the warning that there will be romantic drama outside of the main couple and although I'm not huge on that, there are times when I can deal with it if it furthers the plot or contributes something to it.
I didn't really understand the necessity of the cheating here, although it doesn't necessarily take away from the plot, it doesn't really ADD to it and since her boyfriend is such an insufferable f*ck, it's hard to give a sh*t. Plus it makes the hypocrisy of her issue with Hunter's cheating rather annoying. You can argue for or against it, but the stakes didn't feel particularly high if I'm honest. Although I AM glad that it didn't get brushed under the carpet, because of "true love" which happens a lot in romantically led plots. Her best friend was justifiably disgusted by her and didn't try to molly coddle or reassure her that it was fine. At least SOMEONE has some damn sense here, ESPECIALLY after this meagre excuse: "I didn't do it on purpose!" Bruh you KNEW you were still in a relationship with someone before and AFTER you sucked dude's d*ck, I don't know about about you, but that sounds like on purpose to me. Get it together. For someone with a lot of pride, you sure do have very little self respect...ugh.
Theres a little inconsistency with the whole divine beings need one another's permission to read each other thing, but it's not a huge deal in the grand scheme of things, I guess.
Overall it was aight, the ending and the first 35% were the best parts, maybe the reason this book felt so long is because it's setting us up for the next one, which is gonna knock me dead. Who knows? Maybe I'll read the next one.
2.75-3 stars.
Okay, condoms on: I'm going in.
Firstly, the cover is GORGEOUS dah-ling. Simply stunning. Everything about it makes me want to know what this book is. It got me, hook, line and sinker. It promises sexy mystery and fantasy beyond my wildest imagination. The question is: did it deliver?
The writing in terms of technicality was pretty much faultless. Dialogue flowed, the descriptions were vivid and illustrative. This author is a very talented writer, I will give her that.
Now onto my cornucopia of issues.
Starting with the fact that this book was longer than my life expectancy. Good gods.
The first half of the book was pretty good. I was engaged, I was RUNNING through this book, with my woes. I enjoyed the push and pull although there was more push than pull and Quen was a little more pathetic in the face of it than I would have liked. But my standards are super high when it comes to the art of the cold shoulder, so I'll give it a pass. She didn't give in easily at the start though, I'll give her that, especially when faced with an adversary who was superior in every sense, what with him being a damn DEITY.
Grayson is THE chaos god and in the first half of the book is just the worst. I wanted someone to lightly stab him, which works out. He definitely embodied the role.
Then the 35% mark came and it got a little...tepid. The banging didn't feel like... FINALLY I've wanted this for so long, if they didn't kiss I'd DIE...It hadn't been drawn out enough for me to be CRAVING it. It wasn't instant by any means, but the tension hadn't been drawn out enough for me to be DYING. Their relationship wasn't developed enough for my liking. I wanted to see a little more to them before they finally gave in to the supposed PULL between them. Also the fact that he had just kissed some other random IMMEDIATELY before kissing her and she ALLOWED that sh*t?! Pour the bleach into my mouth please and thank you. Damn at LEAST give it a couple of days. Y'all gon' make me throw UP.
Also it felt less like reading about gods and more like a romantic drama. Yeah they went to Elysia and there was a gifting ceremony etc. But the fantastical aspect of it wasn't at the forefront as I hoped it would be. It didn't feel... larger than life, something was missing in that respect. Also they're both super petty in an extremely irritating way. Example:
'“No other man is to ever touch you! Have I made myself clear?” I roared.' Like relax b*tch. Be cool. You look desperate.
“Why not?” she screamed. “What do you care?”
Sorry to interrupt this disgusting display of nonsense, but what? What are you talking about? Haven't you both decided you're in a relationship with each other? What is this silly ass sh*t? And you with the penis, I know you're a chaos god but SURELY you don't always have to be yelling? Ugh, I'm surrounded by idiots. They're so annoyingly immature and it BOGGLES my mind, surely an accomplished scientist and ancient deity would have a lot more common sense? Emotional maturity? No? Am I the dumb one?
I start out rooting for Quentin and end up wanting her to be bundled into the bin. You're mad about Gray not wanting any men who show romantic interest around you, because he loves you for whatever reason and then when some minor god and your EX- FIANCE turn up, you keep wandering off with these dudes, and when he gets mad at your cheating ass, you're CONFUSED? OUTRAGED?? Hello? Are you normal? I understand that conflict drives a plot forward, but these are truly acerebral and easily avoided... unless you're a flaming chud-monkey with zero brain activity.
"Why was I sitting here with Ethan? Why did I agree to talk to him?"
YOU TELL ME! IN FACT, YELL IT INTO THIS MEGAPHONE SO WE CAN ALL HEAR.
I feel like Archer could have been a more intriguing, charismatic character if they hadn't had him borderline STALKING Quen or at least being a lot less creepy about it. Furthermore, WHY DOES SHE NOT TELL GRAY ABOUT THE DAMN DREAMS?? Is this b*tch dumb?? It felt like he just sort of appeared in the story and because of this, he felt slightly disconnected in a sense.
It is mentioned in the warning that there will be romantic drama outside of the main couple and although I'm not huge on that, there are times when I can deal with it if it furthers the plot or contributes something to it.
I didn't really understand the necessity of the cheating here, although it doesn't necessarily take away from the plot, it doesn't really ADD to it and since her boyfriend is such an insufferable f*ck, it's hard to give a sh*t. Plus it makes the hypocrisy of her issue with Hunter's cheating rather annoying. You can argue for or against it, but the stakes didn't feel particularly high if I'm honest. Although I AM glad that it didn't get brushed under the carpet, because of "true love" which happens a lot in romantically led plots. Her best friend was justifiably disgusted by her and didn't try to molly coddle or reassure her that it was fine. At least SOMEONE has some damn sense here, ESPECIALLY after this meagre excuse: "I didn't do it on purpose!" Bruh you KNEW you were still in a relationship with someone before and AFTER you sucked dude's d*ck, I don't know about about you, but that sounds like on purpose to me. Get it together. For someone with a lot of pride, you sure do have very little self respect...ugh.
Theres a little inconsistency with the whole divine beings need one another's permission to read each other thing, but it's not a huge deal in the grand scheme of things, I guess.
Overall it was aight, the ending and the first 35% were the best parts, maybe the reason this book felt so long is because it's setting us up for the next one, which is gonna knock me dead. Who knows? Maybe I'll read the next one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 8, 2021
Everyone loves this book but I couldn't get over the fact that the author spent absolutely no time building this world.
We don't even learn about the religions and the only reason I can forgive that is that the mc doesn't believe in it. But omg the author had a scientist main character but we know nothing about the science or the project just a few tidbits of her doing experiments but no actual results. It just felt a bit lazy to me :(
We don't even learn about the religions and the only reason I can forgive that is that the mc doesn't believe in it. But omg the author had a scientist main character but we know nothing about the science or the project just a few tidbits of her doing experiments but no actual results. It just felt a bit lazy to me :(
November 6, 2021
ARC kindly provided for the author in exchange for an honest review
WOW! I can't believe what Zavi James did with this book, the building universe is totally another level, the characters are amazing and the plot is full of twists and turns. I'm genuinely in love with this new world because it's something completely different from what I had read about her, but not losing that touch that makes it impossible for me to put their stories down.
One of the things I liked the most was how similar Grayson & Quentin are in personality:both have a strong personality, they get carried away by their emotions, particularly negative ones, they find it difficult to express their feelings, trust other people/gods and keep their close circle very small. But Gray is the God of chaos and destruction so he's also cocky, has little appreciation for humans, and takes their superiority very seriously, while Quentin is a girl who has had a complicated life, she loves her brother madly and works hard to achieve her goals.
These two have a very stormy and fun journey, their interactions are wonderful from the start. I really liked the progress of their relationship/non-relationship and their feelings, I was surprised and loved reading a Grayson that was tender, adorable, and able to recognize how important Quen becomes in his life Furthermore, the secrets he discovers are shocking and add an incredible dynamic to their relationship. I LOVED that Quentin learn to open up to Gray, to give hermself the opportunity to leave her past pain behind and her way of driving Gray crazy whenever she could, and of course, the constant sexual tension and desire that they have for each other makes their story even more interesting.
The plot was perfect, I'm not going to go into details because I think it would ruin the experience, but I have to repeat that Zavi James created a totally fantastic world, with many details about the Elite Gods of Elysia, descriptions that helped me imagine it all, and the best thing is that, true to his style, she intertwines Gray & Quentin's love story with many secrets about both, about this new world in which Quentin finds himself immersed and totally unexpected situations. And of course, another thing that characterizes Zavi's books are their secondary characters who always manage to steal my heart, Erik & Sloan were my favorites, but I also really enjoyed reading Ig & Elva, plus, the ending was totally unexpected and has me wanting to know what will happen to these characters in the new book.
🇪🇸
ARC amablemente proporcionada por la autora a cambio de una reseña honesta
WOW! No puedo creer lo que Zavi James hizo con este libro, la construcción del universo es otro nivel totalmente, los personajes son increíbles y la trama está llena de giros y sorpresas. Estoy genuinamente enamorada de éste nuevo universo porque es algo completamente diferente a lo que había había leído de ella, pero no pierde ese toque me hace imposible dejar sus historias.
Una de las cosas que más me gustó fue lo similares que Grayson & Quentin son en personalidad, aunque ninguno lo crea: ambos tiene una personalidad fuerte, se dejan llevar por sus emociones, particularmente las negativas, les cuesta expresar sus sentimientos, confiar en otras personas/dioses y mantienen su circulo cercano muy reducido. Pero Gray es el Dios del caos y la destrucción así que también es engreído, tiene poco aprecio por los humanos y se toma muy en serio su superioridad, mientras que Quentin es una chica que ha tenido una vida complicada, ama con locura a su hermano y trabaja duro para conseguir sus objetivos.
Estos dos tienen un viaje muy tormentoso y divertido, sus interacciones son maravillosas desde el inicio. Me gustó mucho el progreso de su relación/no relación y sus sentimientos, me sorprendió y encantó leer a un Grayson tierno, adorable, y capaz de reconocer lo importante que Quen se vuelve en su vida, además, los secreteos que descubre son impactante y agregan una dinámica increíble a su relación. AMÉ que Quentin aprendiera a abrirse a Gray, que se diera la oportunidad de dejar su dolor del pasado atrás y su manera de volver loco a Gray siempre que podía, y claro, la tensión sexual y deseo constante que tienen el uno por el otro hace de su historia aún más interesante.
La trama fue perfecta, no voy entrar en detalles porque creo que arruinaría la experiencia, pero tengo que repetir que Zavi James creó un mundo totalmente fantástico, con muchos detalles sobre los Dioses de la Elit de Elysia y descripciones que me ayudaron a imaginarlo todo, y lo mejor es que, fiel a su estilo, entrelaza la historia de amor de Gray & Quentin con muchos secretos sobre ambos, sobre este nuevo mundo en el que Quentin se ve inmersa y situaciones totalmente inesperadas. Y por supuesto, otra cosa que caracteriza los libros de Zavi son sus personajes secundarios que siempre consiguen robarse mi corazón, Erik & Sloan fueron mis favoritos, pero también disfruté mucho leyendo a Ig & Elva, además del final que fue totalmente inesperado y me tiene deseando saber qué va a pasar con estos personajes.
WOW! I can't believe what Zavi James did with this book, the building universe is totally another level, the characters are amazing and the plot is full of twists and turns. I'm genuinely in love with this new world because it's something completely different from what I had read about her, but not losing that touch that makes it impossible for me to put their stories down.
One of the things I liked the most was how similar Grayson & Quentin are in personality:both have a strong personality, they get carried away by their emotions, particularly negative ones, they find it difficult to express their feelings, trust other people/gods and keep their close circle very small. But Gray is the God of chaos and destruction so he's also cocky, has little appreciation for humans, and takes their superiority very seriously, while Quentin is a girl who has had a complicated life, she loves her brother madly and works hard to achieve her goals.
These two have a very stormy and fun journey, their interactions are wonderful from the start. I really liked the progress of their relationship/non-relationship and their feelings, I was surprised and loved reading a Grayson that was tender, adorable, and able to recognize how important Quen becomes in his life Furthermore, the secrets he discovers are shocking and add an incredible dynamic to their relationship. I LOVED that Quentin learn to open up to Gray, to give hermself the opportunity to leave her past pain behind and her way of driving Gray crazy whenever she could, and of course, the constant sexual tension and desire that they have for each other makes their story even more interesting.
The plot was perfect, I'm not going to go into details because I think it would ruin the experience, but I have to repeat that Zavi James created a totally fantastic world, with many details about the Elite Gods of Elysia, descriptions that helped me imagine it all, and the best thing is that, true to his style, she intertwines Gray & Quentin's love story with many secrets about both, about this new world in which Quentin finds himself immersed and totally unexpected situations. And of course, another thing that characterizes Zavi's books are their secondary characters who always manage to steal my heart, Erik & Sloan were my favorites, but I also really enjoyed reading Ig & Elva, plus, the ending was totally unexpected and has me wanting to know what will happen to these characters in the new book.
🇪🇸
ARC amablemente proporcionada por la autora a cambio de una reseña honesta
WOW! No puedo creer lo que Zavi James hizo con este libro, la construcción del universo es otro nivel totalmente, los personajes son increíbles y la trama está llena de giros y sorpresas. Estoy genuinamente enamorada de éste nuevo universo porque es algo completamente diferente a lo que había había leído de ella, pero no pierde ese toque me hace imposible dejar sus historias.
Una de las cosas que más me gustó fue lo similares que Grayson & Quentin son en personalidad, aunque ninguno lo crea: ambos tiene una personalidad fuerte, se dejan llevar por sus emociones, particularmente las negativas, les cuesta expresar sus sentimientos, confiar en otras personas/dioses y mantienen su circulo cercano muy reducido. Pero Gray es el Dios del caos y la destrucción así que también es engreído, tiene poco aprecio por los humanos y se toma muy en serio su superioridad, mientras que Quentin es una chica que ha tenido una vida complicada, ama con locura a su hermano y trabaja duro para conseguir sus objetivos.
Estos dos tienen un viaje muy tormentoso y divertido, sus interacciones son maravillosas desde el inicio. Me gustó mucho el progreso de su relación/no relación y sus sentimientos, me sorprendió y encantó leer a un Grayson tierno, adorable, y capaz de reconocer lo importante que Quen se vuelve en su vida, además, los secreteos que descubre son impactante y agregan una dinámica increíble a su relación. AMÉ que Quentin aprendiera a abrirse a Gray, que se diera la oportunidad de dejar su dolor del pasado atrás y su manera de volver loco a Gray siempre que podía, y claro, la tensión sexual y deseo constante que tienen el uno por el otro hace de su historia aún más interesante.
La trama fue perfecta, no voy entrar en detalles porque creo que arruinaría la experiencia, pero tengo que repetir que Zavi James creó un mundo totalmente fantástico, con muchos detalles sobre los Dioses de la Elit de Elysia y descripciones que me ayudaron a imaginarlo todo, y lo mejor es que, fiel a su estilo, entrelaza la historia de amor de Gray & Quentin con muchos secretos sobre ambos, sobre este nuevo mundo en el que Quentin se ve inmersa y situaciones totalmente inesperadas. Y por supuesto, otra cosa que caracteriza los libros de Zavi son sus personajes secundarios que siempre consiguen robarse mi corazón, Erik & Sloan fueron mis favoritos, pero también disfruté mucho leyendo a Ig & Elva, además del final que fue totalmente inesperado y me tiene deseando saber qué va a pasar con estos personajes.
December 8, 2022
too much screaming, no monsters, and the gods in question had names like "Grayson"and "Hunter"
February 15, 2023
This book is brilliant a hot enemies to friends to lovers with a super captivating plot- it was one of those reads you just couldnt put down!! Straight on to book 2 !
April 22, 2024
ACOTAR / Fourth Wing vibes but with gods 🙌🏻
December 11, 2021
Absolutely loved this book. I NEED BOOK NUMBER 2 ASAP! OH MY GOSH!!!
The 2 main characters are amazing! The dynamic between men is just great.
Passion ✔
Explosive personality ✔
Steam ✔
Passion ✔
A little bit of crazy ✔
I seriously need to know what happens next.
The over all story and world building was amazing. I hated that it ended on a cliffhanger but it was totally worth it.
Need book number 2!
The 2 main characters are amazing! The dynamic between men is just great.
Passion ✔
Explosive personality ✔
Steam ✔
Passion ✔
A little bit of crazy ✔
I seriously need to know what happens next.
The over all story and world building was amazing. I hated that it ended on a cliffhanger but it was totally worth it.
Need book number 2!
February 27, 2022
Muchas partes innecesarias, dilatando la historia. Protagonistas inmaduros, la idea está buena pero siento que sobran capitulos. Tiene un final abierto
November 18, 2021
RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
STEAM: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Zavi James. Zavi. James.
Remember the name because it will become a household one soon.
This book -- the promise of this series -- is so epic that I would not be surprised if this book (and series) becomes a bestseller. And the hangover is real - this has to be the best and the worst book hangover, and I would go through it again for this book.
The book opens with scientists from varying practices being thrilled and anxious about the official start of the Elysian Liaison Initiative (ELI). Elysian Gods are set to arrive for mortals to study them, and most are cooperating, except for one. Grayson, the God of Chaos and Destruction, wants nothing to do with ELI and does not hesitate to show his displeasure through loud tantrums. Quentin, a biology research prodigy, is in Grayson's team and receives much of his vitriol. As angry as the Chaos God is, he and Quen find themselves mysteriously pulled to each other.
The world-building in this book is phenomenal. The first book in a series carries the burden of introducing the world to readers and can sometimes be subject to overexplaining, but Zavi James weaves key details seamlessly into the story that I never felt bogged down with too much information.
The characters from the Gods to the researchers are intriguing and play their roles to perfection. The Elysian Gods own similar characteristics as their Greek counterparts but show a more vulnerable side to their immortality. They feel love, grief, loneliness, making them more relatable to readers.
Grayson is a delicious anti-hero; he is an alpha who goes head-to-head with his brother, the leader of the Elysian Gods, for what he believes in. He is fierce but gentle, flirtatious but caring. His dirty mouth and thoughts put mortal book boyfriends to shame.
Quentin is a beautiful soul. She is intelligent, has a quick wit, and effortlessly endears herself to anyone who crosses paths with her. It is no wonder that the reinforced walls around the broody God's heart crumble to pieces around her.
Their chemistry is just marvelously written. We feel the sexual tension in our bones even when they are at each other's throats. And the climax at which point they finally give into the inevitable -- the wait is so worth it. The dirty talk, the small spicy details, the deep connection leave a fantastic thirst that I would gladly experience over and over again.
This book does end in a cliffhanger, but if Book Two is anything like Book One, I will become immortal myself and wait forever.
** I am voluntarily reviewing an advance copy of this book. **
TW: violence, death, emotional abuse, and genocide.
STEAM: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Zavi James. Zavi. James.
Remember the name because it will become a household one soon.
This book -- the promise of this series -- is so epic that I would not be surprised if this book (and series) becomes a bestseller. And the hangover is real - this has to be the best and the worst book hangover, and I would go through it again for this book.
The book opens with scientists from varying practices being thrilled and anxious about the official start of the Elysian Liaison Initiative (ELI). Elysian Gods are set to arrive for mortals to study them, and most are cooperating, except for one. Grayson, the God of Chaos and Destruction, wants nothing to do with ELI and does not hesitate to show his displeasure through loud tantrums. Quentin, a biology research prodigy, is in Grayson's team and receives much of his vitriol. As angry as the Chaos God is, he and Quen find themselves mysteriously pulled to each other.
The world-building in this book is phenomenal. The first book in a series carries the burden of introducing the world to readers and can sometimes be subject to overexplaining, but Zavi James weaves key details seamlessly into the story that I never felt bogged down with too much information.
The characters from the Gods to the researchers are intriguing and play their roles to perfection. The Elysian Gods own similar characteristics as their Greek counterparts but show a more vulnerable side to their immortality. They feel love, grief, loneliness, making them more relatable to readers.
Grayson is a delicious anti-hero; he is an alpha who goes head-to-head with his brother, the leader of the Elysian Gods, for what he believes in. He is fierce but gentle, flirtatious but caring. His dirty mouth and thoughts put mortal book boyfriends to shame.
Quentin is a beautiful soul. She is intelligent, has a quick wit, and effortlessly endears herself to anyone who crosses paths with her. It is no wonder that the reinforced walls around the broody God's heart crumble to pieces around her.
Their chemistry is just marvelously written. We feel the sexual tension in our bones even when they are at each other's throats. And the climax at which point they finally give into the inevitable -- the wait is so worth it. The dirty talk, the small spicy details, the deep connection leave a fantastic thirst that I would gladly experience over and over again.
This book does end in a cliffhanger, but if Book Two is anything like Book One, I will become immortal myself and wait forever.
** I am voluntarily reviewing an advance copy of this book. **
TW: violence, death, emotional abuse, and genocide.
January 6, 2022
This book was so interesting! I enjoyed the gods, their auras, and powers. The banter between Grayson and Quentin was great. The relationship between Grayson and his little brother Erik was also great. I did find myself extremely irritated with Grayson and Quentin at times. They were so hard headed! It truly knew no bounds. But that ending! Gah! I hope book two comes out soon.
June 18, 2022
Would’ve been a four but i hate cheating so its auto -1 regardless 🫡
January 7, 2022
Just have to get this out of the way: why on god's green earth are we still using the phrase "their tongues battled for dominance"? I thought that only existed in poorly written fanfiction and/or for satirical effect.
I have mixed thoughts on this book. The first half was interesting and entertaining. I flew through it, reading half the book in one sitting. After that, it started to stagnate.
James did little to no world-building and left me with so many questions. What exactly was the research project about? Surely a project as ambitious as that one with that much money and years of effort invested in it should have had a clear, I don't know, goal? Hypothesis? We get some vague mentions about integration and what makes the Gods what they are, but the whole purpose of the project is vague and open-ended. Next, what place does the religion have in this world? All the Gods are prayed to but we learn nothing of how they exist in culture, media, society, politics, nothing. Quentin says she doesn't believe in them, but she clearly acknowledges they exist which qualifies as belief, right? Having no trust or faith in them is different, but she obviously knows they exist. With the demigods thing, what exactly is the threat? Again, vague mentions of them somehow being powerful and dangerous and being culled ages ago, but that's it. The forbidden aspect of Gray and Quentin's relationship is central to the plot, but is never really expanded upon other than telling us it's Not Allowed. Where is the history?
As I read and realized there wasn't going to be any deeper exploration of the world, my interest and curiosity started to wane. If the writing was better, I would have felt assured that all would be explained in due time. But the writing was mediocre, falling back onto a lot of summarizing and telling instead of showing, which made this feel more like a draft than a fully fledged low fantasy romance novel. The Kindle version had some spelling and grammatical errors which are whatever, and I can't take capslock dialogue seriously. Unfortunately, I can't say I'll stick around to read future installments. It was a fun read in the first half but declined after.
I have mixed thoughts on this book. The first half was interesting and entertaining. I flew through it, reading half the book in one sitting. After that, it started to stagnate.
James did little to no world-building and left me with so many questions. What exactly was the research project about? Surely a project as ambitious as that one with that much money and years of effort invested in it should have had a clear, I don't know, goal? Hypothesis? We get some vague mentions about integration and what makes the Gods what they are, but the whole purpose of the project is vague and open-ended. Next, what place does the religion have in this world? All the Gods are prayed to but we learn nothing of how they exist in culture, media, society, politics, nothing. Quentin says she doesn't believe in them, but she clearly acknowledges they exist which qualifies as belief, right? Having no trust or faith in them is different, but she obviously knows they exist. With the demigods thing, what exactly is the threat? Again, vague mentions of them somehow being powerful and dangerous and being culled ages ago, but that's it. The forbidden aspect of Gray and Quentin's relationship is central to the plot, but is never really expanded upon other than telling us it's Not Allowed. Where is the history?
As I read and realized there wasn't going to be any deeper exploration of the world, my interest and curiosity started to wane. If the writing was better, I would have felt assured that all would be explained in due time. But the writing was mediocre, falling back onto a lot of summarizing and telling instead of showing, which made this feel more like a draft than a fully fledged low fantasy romance novel. The Kindle version had some spelling and grammatical errors which are whatever, and I can't take capslock dialogue seriously. Unfortunately, I can't say I'll stick around to read future installments. It was a fun read in the first half but declined after.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 13, 2021
Honey, this book is the next hit series. Mark my words and date. Today is 11/13/2021. I will come back to this review to say "I said so" when they are filming this series for Netflix or movies.
Book has a mythology element that looks just like Greek Mythology but not. Heavily influenced by it sure but it's also very much different. Let me tell you. The story of Grayson and Quentin looks like Hades&Persephone retelling but it's completely different. Looks like Percy Jackson books. I wont say much regarding this to not give spoilers but trust me you will find this interesting.
I really enjoyed this fresh take for this. I also very much loved that they have ordinary names just like us.
For my reason to choose this book to read was the science element. I have never seen a mythology book containing science before. As a medical doctor myself, it was so cool for me that the main character was a scientist (biologist) working with Gods. I would totally want to do what she does. It's crazy good.
Book has a lot of action and also romantic scenes (and spicy, +18, multiple scenes). Their relationship was not like love at first sight but also not enemies to lovers. It's a story that can happen in real life. They sure have a chemistry from the moment they met but their relationship grows into one later on when they actually get to know each other.
I also loved other Gods&Goddesses. There were adorable ones which I also would love to read if they have their own books. I will be waiting for the second book of Elysian Gods very eagerly! I am so glad that I found this book and read it. This book deserves to be popular!
Thank you Zavi James for this amazing book. I will see you in other books for sure!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Book has a mythology element that looks just like Greek Mythology but not. Heavily influenced by it sure but it's also very much different. Let me tell you. The story of Grayson and Quentin looks like Hades&Persephone retelling but it's completely different. Looks like Percy Jackson books. I wont say much regarding this to not give spoilers but trust me you will find this interesting.
I really enjoyed this fresh take for this. I also very much loved that they have ordinary names just like us.
For my reason to choose this book to read was the science element. I have never seen a mythology book containing science before. As a medical doctor myself, it was so cool for me that the main character was a scientist (biologist) working with Gods. I would totally want to do what she does. It's crazy good.
Book has a lot of action and also romantic scenes (and spicy, +18, multiple scenes). Their relationship was not like love at first sight but also not enemies to lovers. It's a story that can happen in real life. They sure have a chemistry from the moment they met but their relationship grows into one later on when they actually get to know each other.
I also loved other Gods&Goddesses. There were adorable ones which I also would love to read if they have their own books. I will be waiting for the second book of Elysian Gods very eagerly! I am so glad that I found this book and read it. This book deserves to be popular!
Thank you Zavi James for this amazing book. I will see you in other books for sure!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 11, 2022
Where is the world building? I mean, there is absolutely NO back story. What is the point with the research project? Why does the dialogue sound like it's between teens?
I like the premise, the idea of god's returning to earth to make people believe in them again is ok, but somehow this seems like a meaningless part of the story. And ending on a cliffhanger, I didn't want to read more, but I hate not getting closure.
I gave it a 2 instead of 1 because the s## is actually described in a rater ok way, making it obvious that that is where the author put in the effort. Could have been much more than it turned out to be, especially considering the length.
I like the premise, the idea of god's returning to earth to make people believe in them again is ok, but somehow this seems like a meaningless part of the story. And ending on a cliffhanger, I didn't want to read more, but I hate not getting closure.
I gave it a 2 instead of 1 because the s## is actually described in a rater ok way, making it obvious that that is where the author put in the effort. Could have been much more than it turned out to be, especially considering the length.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 22, 2023
this book is so good and underrated, i recommend u this one if u like fantasy books also it has a good plot and spicy scenes.
February 17, 2024
3.5⭐️
One of the best books I’ve read on KU!
One of the best books I’ve read on KU!
August 1, 2024
Of Gods & Monsters is a romance that I have had on my shelf for probably two years now or longer so when my son picked it out as the book club read for June, I was definitely excited. And I’m happy to say it didn’t disappoint. For an urban fantasy, it didn’t take me long to really sink deep into the story. The pace was even and I never found myself bored or lacking interest in continuing my read. If you love a grumpy asshole MMC (who doesn’t lol) then Grey is definitely going to be a new favorite of yours. In fact I really enjoyed both MCs both separately and together. Their chemistry and messy emotions made for one hell of a romance and their relationship was my favorite part of the book.
Which leads me to just a few complaints that made this a 4 star and not a 5 star read for me.
As said before this is an urban like fantasy where gods have descended and are required to submit to medical testing & studying which is how Grey and Quentin meet. I felt like both of these plot lines weren’t really used to their advantage nor was it deeply explored. There’s even a few times where we get to see where the Gods live (Elysia) and learn some interesting cultural and political things about them but again I felt like this was a lost opportunity to really go into some sick world building. I just wanted more. I loved what I got but I was left craving. There were some other things that were done or said that never got explained (what does 1, 4, 3 mean to Quen?) and I absolutely could be jumping too fast into that opinion considering this isn’t a standalone so my questions and want for a more thorough explanation of things could be answered in book two.
What to expect:
-MF
-God/non believer
-Hate to love
-Forbidden
-“Let’s fuck once and get it out of our system”
-She’s a biologist and is hired to run medical tests on Gods
-Shadow daddy
-Forced proximity
-Secrets unfold
TW/CW: medical settings including needles and drawing blood, physical violence and fighting, loss of parents, discussion of a breakup, cheating
Which leads me to just a few complaints that made this a 4 star and not a 5 star read for me.
As said before this is an urban like fantasy where gods have descended and are required to submit to medical testing & studying which is how Grey and Quentin meet. I felt like both of these plot lines weren’t really used to their advantage nor was it deeply explored. There’s even a few times where we get to see where the Gods live (Elysia) and learn some interesting cultural and political things about them but again I felt like this was a lost opportunity to really go into some sick world building. I just wanted more. I loved what I got but I was left craving. There were some other things that were done or said that never got explained (what does 1, 4, 3 mean to Quen?) and I absolutely could be jumping too fast into that opinion considering this isn’t a standalone so my questions and want for a more thorough explanation of things could be answered in book two.
What to expect:
-MF
-God/non believer
-Hate to love
-Forbidden
-“Let’s fuck once and get it out of our system”
-She’s a biologist and is hired to run medical tests on Gods
-Shadow daddy
-Forced proximity
-Secrets unfold
TW/CW: medical settings including needles and drawing blood, physical violence and fighting, loss of parents, discussion of a breakup, cheating
November 26, 2021
Phenomenal, unique and twisted story!
WOW! This story was absolutely phenomenal! It had me hooked right from the very start and quickly turning the pages to see how it all plays out. It was thrilling, suspenseful, intriguing, emotional and highly entertaining from start to finish. It had my heart racing and my toes curling. It’s an intense rollercoaster ride filled with twists and turns, that you never want to end.
Quentin and Grayson have this instant attraction to one another that continually pulls them together. Their push and pull for dominance is rife with such intense sexual tension that you were sure that they were going to explode at any given moment. They had me all clenched up with a pent up need for them to finally give in. It was spicy, sexy and damn right panty melting when it finally happens.
There are a lot of secrets slowly being revealed that will leave you gasping at every turn. The twists will pull you in and keep you captivated and enthralled, while keeping you on the edge of your seat with anticipation of what was going to happen next.
This story is brilliantly written with outstanding characters that are unique and slightly unhinged, and with a storyline that is slightly dark, definitely suspenseful, filled with drama and angst and will make you laugh and cry from all the emotions packed into it.
Highly recommend and I can’t wait to see how this story unfolds.
WOW! This story was absolutely phenomenal! It had me hooked right from the very start and quickly turning the pages to see how it all plays out. It was thrilling, suspenseful, intriguing, emotional and highly entertaining from start to finish. It had my heart racing and my toes curling. It’s an intense rollercoaster ride filled with twists and turns, that you never want to end.
Quentin and Grayson have this instant attraction to one another that continually pulls them together. Their push and pull for dominance is rife with such intense sexual tension that you were sure that they were going to explode at any given moment. They had me all clenched up with a pent up need for them to finally give in. It was spicy, sexy and damn right panty melting when it finally happens.
There are a lot of secrets slowly being revealed that will leave you gasping at every turn. The twists will pull you in and keep you captivated and enthralled, while keeping you on the edge of your seat with anticipation of what was going to happen next.
This story is brilliantly written with outstanding characters that are unique and slightly unhinged, and with a storyline that is slightly dark, definitely suspenseful, filled with drama and angst and will make you laugh and cry from all the emotions packed into it.
Highly recommend and I can’t wait to see how this story unfolds.
August 28, 2023
i loved most of this book (they could have done it without the cheating part for sure ughh I hated that.) I will be reading the second one right now though, just to see how it all plays out and if that book is an improvement or not.
check the trigger warnings before you read :)
BECAUSE DAMN this book had some of my favorite things in it; enemies-to-lovers, angst, smut, fighting and screaming while making certain ✨confessions✨, characters that you fell in love with - their dynamics and development, a god of chaos??? I mean he could come stir up my life anytime and I’d let him, found family and important topics about life.
this book made me laugh, cry, feel THINGS, hit my leg sm bcs I can’t scream in an apartment building. I’m a mess of emotions.
check the trigger warnings before you read :)
BECAUSE DAMN this book had some of my favorite things in it; enemies-to-lovers, angst, smut, fighting and screaming while making certain ✨confessions✨, characters that you fell in love with - their dynamics and development, a god of chaos??? I mean he could come stir up my life anytime and I’d let him, found family and important topics about life.
this book made me laugh, cry, feel THINGS, hit my leg sm bcs I can’t scream in an apartment building. I’m a mess of emotions.
November 17, 2021
Being new to Ms.James's work i've been meaning to pick up her books for quite some time now. As soon as i found out about this one i added it to my TBR List right away and knew i had to read it first! I dived into the Elysian Gods world as soon as i could. I enjoyed this first installment!
I wasn't sure what all to expect going into this story which I really liked! I enjoyed the fact that this story had such uniqueness and how i felt all kinds of things throughout with these characters! I was glad that i got to get into this world and dig into these characters minds.
With Of Gods & Monsters, Ms.James has created such a good read! I'm looking forward to getting back into the Elysian Gods world with the second installment!
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from Wildfire Marketing Solutions / the author*
I wasn't sure what all to expect going into this story which I really liked! I enjoyed the fact that this story had such uniqueness and how i felt all kinds of things throughout with these characters! I was glad that i got to get into this world and dig into these characters minds.
With Of Gods & Monsters, Ms.James has created such a good read! I'm looking forward to getting back into the Elysian Gods world with the second installment!
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from Wildfire Marketing Solutions / the author*
November 12, 2025
Really enjoyed this, loved the overall concept found it hard to put down. My extra 🌟 was lost because of the pacing was craaaazy, normally I moan about books being too slow but this was crazy fast. It felt like we were skipping loads of key details in a couple of pages, I would have loved to have spent more time in Malaysia or New York as they built their relationship. My biggest gripe was her ex turning up at the end completely randomly and her quickly running off with him after spending the whole book talking about how traumatised she was by him. It felt shoved in and unnecessarily out of the blue. Aside from that I’m already excited to start book 2!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 10, 2024
I really enjoyed this story of divine beings and mere mortals.
I enjoyed the way that Grayson and Quen's relationship grew and the friendships she made with the other gods.
I was expecting a cliff hanger ending, knowing this was the first in a series, but I wasn't expecting this ending!
My stomach was in knots and I was fearing the worst. I think this shows some great writing and the story was a blast to read and it was totally binge worthy.
I'll definitely be completing the series!
I enjoyed the way that Grayson and Quen's relationship grew and the friendships she made with the other gods.
I was expecting a cliff hanger ending, knowing this was the first in a series, but I wasn't expecting this ending!
My stomach was in knots and I was fearing the worst. I think this shows some great writing and the story was a blast to read and it was totally binge worthy.
I'll definitely be completing the series!
March 11, 2022
Genuinely really good. This is a romance novel that covers more than just spice. There are secrets, Gods, hidden plot points that make you eager for book 2 (what does 1-4-3 mean?!) and the spice is nice when it happens. Worth the investment.
The main character is also a physical type we don’t get often. The way the narrator describes her (ethnically fairly ambiguous, warmer skin and dark hair, curvy and fairly short) made me picture America Ferrera or someone similar even though they are in London.
Grayson, God of Chaos, looked like Tom Hiddleston to me, and there was nothing to be done for it. 😅
Loki is the God of Chaos to me and Hiddleston has been Loki for a while for me.
The main character is also a physical type we don’t get often. The way the narrator describes her (ethnically fairly ambiguous, warmer skin and dark hair, curvy and fairly short) made me picture America Ferrera or someone similar even though they are in London.
Grayson, God of Chaos, looked like Tom Hiddleston to me, and there was nothing to be done for it. 😅
Loki is the God of Chaos to me and Hiddleston has been Loki for a while for me.
November 22, 2021
I really liked this! If you're looking for a fantasy (God's who have come down to earth), enemies to lovers book, I would recommend! I do think it could have been shorter though!
March 10, 2022
I need part 2 like asap.
April 27, 2023
Grayson God of Chaos but he's a cinnamon roll ❤️
Displaying 1 - 30 of 158 reviews