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The Goddess and the Hawk
Amala loves the sun, but she is High Priestess to the Goddess of the Moon.
A midwife , a priestess , a lover . Amala lives her days at the temple, caring for her Goddess and sharing her Love with the ones around her, when she discovers a murder which utterly destroys her. As Amala struggles with grief and guilt, she joins Hawk, the city’s charismatic Captain, on the murder investigation. Together they witness a case with no leads become an intricate plot of lies, alibis, and schemes. But each thread uncovers more than they could have ever imagined, and Amala has her secrets, too.
The Goddess and the Hawk is a story of love, self-discovery, mystery, passion, and too many secrets.
A midwife , a priestess , a lover . Amala lives her days at the temple, caring for her Goddess and sharing her Love with the ones around her, when she discovers a murder which utterly destroys her. As Amala struggles with grief and guilt, she joins Hawk, the city’s charismatic Captain, on the murder investigation. Together they witness a case with no leads become an intricate plot of lies, alibis, and schemes. But each thread uncovers more than they could have ever imagined, and Amala has her secrets, too.
The Goddess and the Hawk is a story of love, self-discovery, mystery, passion, and too many secrets.
647 pages, Paperback
Published February 16, 2023
49 people are currently reading
2352 people want to read
About the author
Chiara Gala
1 book47 followersChiara Gala is a maladaptive daydreamer writing down all the stories in her head. She writes fantasy with the goal of female empowerment, and her debut "The Goddess and the Hawk" is the first ever 'divine feminine fantasy'. Born and raised in Rome, she moved to London for her Masters in Linguistics and now lives in the city. You can always find her at the park or around nature, likely with her yoga mat, some incense, a book, and writing on her laptop.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
June 27, 2023
Amala felt his canines instinctively trace her skin, though he held back.
For now.
She caught his gaze as he massaged her calf, the spot where the rope mark was well visible.
“Mated mates, then.”
Hawk’s mouth dropped open for a split second, before he reconquered his usual smugness. He rubbed his fingers against her soft skin.
“Mated mates, indeed.”
Amala smiled, “What now, then?”
He pressed a kiss on her calf, a dark chuckle against her skin.
“Now you’re mine forever.”
This book is so unique.
You can feel the author's deep love and respect for spirituality and femininity in her words.
I've never read a book that focuses so much on spiritual concepts and astral energy, but I couldn't be happier my first time was with The Goddess and the Hawk.
The world Gala's created is original, meaningful, round.
There's something magnetic about her writing, and her smut is enjoyable and never cringe.
Her take on Love, friendship and mates is adorable. The relationship between Amala and her friends made me feel all warm and cozy.
The romance in this book is very peculiar and impossibly cute. The bond between Amala and Hawk is there from the start, but it begins as a deep connection and evolves into a full blown spicy soulmate affair.
Watching them get closer and closer was a delight.
Hawk is possibly one of the sweetest love interests I've read about, and it doesn't hurt that he's also hot af and has the filthiest mouth, especially when his Amala mate is involved.
Speaking of which, I loved how in touch Amala was with her own sexuality and her inner self.
She's strong and brave and the cinnamon roll to end all cinnamon rolls.
She's perfect main character, and I'm glad to confirm the side and supporting cast is equally as interesting and inclusive, because of it's variety and diversity.
Also, everyone is simply so hot in this book you'll have your hands full of beautiful people for days.
Just remember that Amala is basically the perfect mix between Road to El Dorado's Chel and Princess Kida from Atlantis, and you'll get a hint of why I was drawn to her so much.
The murder mystery aspect was well done, too.
The author kept me guessing until the end and the big revelation fell smoothly into the story.
I recommend this book to those who are looking for something different, esoteric, character-oriented, and set in a world where earthly and divine meet.
Not gonna lie, I have the biggest platonic author crush on Chiara Gala, her characters and her golden aura, and this book only made me appreciate her even more🙏🌻✨
If there's a book that screams girl power without hating on any other category, it's totally this one!
Want to read
June 2, 2023*******
Pre-review - it's @booksnpenguins's fault combined with one-click autobuy and a lack of s(h)elf control 🙃
Well that and I'm weak...the cover guys!
I am simple gal - It pretty, I clicky 🤤🤩
Pre-review - it's @booksnpenguins's fault combined with one-click autobuy and a lack of s(h)elf control 🙃
Well that and I'm weak...the cover guys!
I am simple gal - It pretty, I clicky 🤤🤩
March 28, 2024
This is my book club’s choice for March. Just like some other reads within book club, I probably wouldn’t have picked this up if it wasn’t the pick of the month. I was very nervous with starting this as some of the other members finished it before I started it, and the feedback made me nervous. If you treat this book like a comedy, it would be hilarious. As a fantasy, it is poorly written and very confusing.
This book has two points of view. The first is Amala. She loves the sun, but she is the High Priestess to the Goddess of the Moon. She is a midwife, a priestess and a lover. Amala lives her days at the temple, caring for her Goddess and sharing her love with the ones around her. However, when she discovers a murder of the Goddess, it destroys her. The second point of view is Hawk, he is the city’s Captain, and he is working on the murder investigation. He wants to protect Amala especially because they have been mates for ten years, but they are waiting for the bond to snap. Together, they try to figure out a case with no leads and it becomes a case of lies, alibis and schemes. But each thread uncovers more than they could have ever imagined, and both have their secrets too.
One of the issues I have with this book is that it is so chaotically written, we are in the future, but phones and internet are still a thing but it’s 200031 or whatever year it is. Then at times they’ve got to ride on the centaur (the one she is screwing and everyone knows about it) to get to a birth. So, you have phones and internet and all that good stuff, but not like high-advanced cars.
The plot was a bit predictable at times, with who the next high-priestess was going to be – you knew it was going to Amala and yet she fully shits herself when it came to her. There was too many plots going on – the murder mystery, the mate issue, the fact that there were two mates, her being a goddess. There was a lot of repeated information as well like if I did a shot for every time, it was mentioned that she loved the sun, I would have had alcohol poisoning before I got halfway through the book. Plus, this book did not need to be 650 pages long, it could have been 250 pages and still had all the plot (that took it times to get to) and smut and drama.
The smut was poorly written, when they were doing the rope-bonding sessions, I just sort of skimmed over it because it was just a bit boring and predictable and giving me the ick slightly. I didn’t have an issue with the poly stuff, but it was just giving me a headache – Hawk wanted to be the only one for Amala at the start of the book and whilst they were having sex, but then was completely fine and chill when he found out Amala had a second mate and that it was a woman. Like dude, make your mind up. Plus, I didn’t like the cheating aspect of the book, again with the double standard.
The reason why I rated it two stars instead of one star was because we finally got the answer to the murder mystery, it just took bloody forever to get there.
I’ve heard the author is making this into a trilogy and this might be the first time where I don’t carry on with the series, even though I'm a compulsive series finisher. I’ve read more series where I didn’t like the first book and the series was worth it, but if the second book is 650 pages or more again, I won’t be reading.
This book has two points of view. The first is Amala. She loves the sun, but she is the High Priestess to the Goddess of the Moon. She is a midwife, a priestess and a lover. Amala lives her days at the temple, caring for her Goddess and sharing her love with the ones around her. However, when she discovers a murder of the Goddess, it destroys her. The second point of view is Hawk, he is the city’s Captain, and he is working on the murder investigation. He wants to protect Amala especially because they have been mates for ten years, but they are waiting for the bond to snap. Together, they try to figure out a case with no leads and it becomes a case of lies, alibis and schemes. But each thread uncovers more than they could have ever imagined, and both have their secrets too.
One of the issues I have with this book is that it is so chaotically written, we are in the future, but phones and internet are still a thing but it’s 200031 or whatever year it is. Then at times they’ve got to ride on the centaur (the one she is screwing and everyone knows about it) to get to a birth. So, you have phones and internet and all that good stuff, but not like high-advanced cars.
The plot was a bit predictable at times, with who the next high-priestess was going to be – you knew it was going to Amala and yet she fully shits herself when it came to her. There was too many plots going on – the murder mystery, the mate issue, the fact that there were two mates, her being a goddess. There was a lot of repeated information as well like if I did a shot for every time, it was mentioned that she loved the sun, I would have had alcohol poisoning before I got halfway through the book. Plus, this book did not need to be 650 pages long, it could have been 250 pages and still had all the plot (that took it times to get to) and smut and drama.
The smut was poorly written, when they were doing the rope-bonding sessions, I just sort of skimmed over it because it was just a bit boring and predictable and giving me the ick slightly. I didn’t have an issue with the poly stuff, but it was just giving me a headache – Hawk wanted to be the only one for Amala at the start of the book and whilst they were having sex, but then was completely fine and chill when he found out Amala had a second mate and that it was a woman. Like dude, make your mind up. Plus, I didn’t like the cheating aspect of the book, again with the double standard.
The reason why I rated it two stars instead of one star was because we finally got the answer to the murder mystery, it just took bloody forever to get there.
I’ve heard the author is making this into a trilogy and this might be the first time where I don’t carry on with the series, even though I'm a compulsive series finisher. I’ve read more series where I didn’t like the first book and the series was worth it, but if the second book is 650 pages or more again, I won’t be reading.
June 25, 2023
I was enjoying this book (ignoring minor icks-but I shouldn’t have). It was refreshing to see just positive female relationships. WHY IS NO-ONE MENTIONING THE CHEATING!? Yes, they’re mates…I fully count it is as cheating. Hawk all boohoo, “I had a moment of weakness.” All the celibacy bull shit for what?! Him to bang some other chick, IN THEIR HOUSE! Yep. That’s when I dnf’d. There’s no coming back from that. I did end up skimming just to see how it ended. Sucks that this ended up being a waste of my time. I wish someone would have mentioned Hawk’s discretion. I know this book is sex positive, which I love, but it crossed the line…
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 11, 2024
i just don’t have anything else to say other than this was some hippy go nutty stuff and i was confused throughout the entire thing. if you like crystals and are a bit of a hippy shoot your shot girl but not me, no no, this was not for me
March 12, 2024
I don’t have many words for this book. The main storyline was intriguing but I felt so confused a lot of the time, there was just too much going on.
July 8, 2023
✍️ Rating : ⭐⭐⭐⭐.
❤️🔥 Spicy : 🌶️🌶️🌶️.
💭 Review : OMG give this book a chance, it will bring you out of your reading slump! (I really got into a reading slump after Fourth Wing, it was just so good!) At first I thought "yeah this book is cool, really one of a kind, let's continue. I mean why not it has potential". And I got totally carried away!! IT SO GOOD!!! I always wanted to read more and more and more... Listen to me seriously, DO. NOT. SKIP. THIS. BOOK!
I got dragged out of my comfort zone so easily!! I mean this book is 650 pages long and I never got bored 😂.
Amala had such a soothing effect on me, it felt like she was there beside me giving me all her love, so pure, shining through the book. I was surprisingly calm and relieved when reading about her, it's weird to explain, just a lot of good feelings most of the time. And as @booksnpenguins pointed out, she reminds me of Princess Kida from Atlantis a lot!
The side characters are charismatic and enjoyable to read.
Hawk is really perfect, maybe too perfect 👀... I usually prefer the love interest to be more mysterious, grumpy or moody so guess who's my favorite character now after Amala 👀, sorry Hawk I love you still but the Phoenix 🤌🏻.
Oh and about the plot twist/cliffhanger I suspected all along 😌. Also the mystery/murder/urban fantasy/FMC with thights/MMC with long hair side of the novel reminded me of House of Earth and Blood by SJM.
NOW, well I need book 2!! I have questions that need answers!! The Author said : Now watch me keeping Phoenix's name a secret for an entire year. Good luck future me. It's so unfair 😭!
Overall, it's a very unique and promising debut novel that embodies feminine energy and spirituality.
(Also first time reading the Acknowledgements part because the author delivers such a beautiful energy, and she's so friendly and easy to talk to!)
💟 Would highly recommend if you like reading about : god & goddess, priest & priestess, devine feminine, energy, spirituality, friends-to-lovers, fated mates, sisterhood, found family, urban fantasy, slow burn romance, bi/poly MC, murder, mystery.
❤️🔥 Spicy : 🌶️🌶️🌶️.
💭 Review : OMG give this book a chance, it will bring you out of your reading slump! (I really got into a reading slump after Fourth Wing, it was just so good!) At first I thought "yeah this book is cool, really one of a kind, let's continue. I mean why not it has potential". And I got totally carried away!! IT SO GOOD!!! I always wanted to read more and more and more... Listen to me seriously, DO. NOT. SKIP. THIS. BOOK!
I got dragged out of my comfort zone so easily!! I mean this book is 650 pages long and I never got bored 😂.
Amala had such a soothing effect on me, it felt like she was there beside me giving me all her love, so pure, shining through the book. I was surprisingly calm and relieved when reading about her, it's weird to explain, just a lot of good feelings most of the time. And as @booksnpenguins pointed out, she reminds me of Princess Kida from Atlantis a lot!
The side characters are charismatic and enjoyable to read.
Hawk is really perfect, maybe too perfect 👀... I usually prefer the love interest to be more mysterious, grumpy or moody so guess who's my favorite character now after Amala 👀, sorry Hawk I love you still but the Phoenix 🤌🏻.
Oh and about the plot twist/cliffhanger I suspected all along 😌. Also the mystery/murder/urban fantasy/FMC with thights/MMC with long hair side of the novel reminded me of House of Earth and Blood by SJM.
NOW, well I need book 2!! I have questions that need answers!! The Author said : Now watch me keeping Phoenix's name a secret for an entire year. Good luck future me. It's so unfair 😭!
Overall, it's a very unique and promising debut novel that embodies feminine energy and spirituality.
(Also first time reading the Acknowledgements part because the author delivers such a beautiful energy, and she's so friendly and easy to talk to!)
💟 Would highly recommend if you like reading about : god & goddess, priest & priestess, devine feminine, energy, spirituality, friends-to-lovers, fated mates, sisterhood, found family, urban fantasy, slow burn romance, bi/poly MC, murder, mystery.
July 3, 2023
new fantasy book rec coming your way!
the goddess and the hawk by @authorchiaragala is a completely unique and refreshing adult fantasy debut that follows the story of Amala, high priestess to the moon goddess of Aglatas.
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Amala is unlike any fmc i’ve ever read, in that she’s such a sweet cinnamon roll but also powerful and strong in being true to herself. This book is largely a journey of her coming to terms with immense power and finding herself deserving of it 🩵 By the end of this book, I found myself loving little things about myself that I saw in Amala, like loving waking up with the sun 🌞
the goddess and the hawk also has the most lovable and diverse cast of characters, stunning scenery, and amazing set up for book 2. if you’re a fan of crescent city, you will LOVE aglatas!
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
read if you love:
🌛 gods & goddesses
🌞 celestial aesthetic
🌛 divine feminine energy
🌞 murder mystery (a la crescent city 👀)
🌛 a soft girl cinnamon roll fmc
🌞 friends to lovers & fated mates
🌛 spiceee
🌞 found family
the goddess and the hawk by @authorchiaragala is a completely unique and refreshing adult fantasy debut that follows the story of Amala, high priestess to the moon goddess of Aglatas.
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Amala is unlike any fmc i’ve ever read, in that she’s such a sweet cinnamon roll but also powerful and strong in being true to herself. This book is largely a journey of her coming to terms with immense power and finding herself deserving of it 🩵 By the end of this book, I found myself loving little things about myself that I saw in Amala, like loving waking up with the sun 🌞
the goddess and the hawk also has the most lovable and diverse cast of characters, stunning scenery, and amazing set up for book 2. if you’re a fan of crescent city, you will LOVE aglatas!
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
read if you love:
🌛 gods & goddesses
🌞 celestial aesthetic
🌛 divine feminine energy
🌞 murder mystery (a la crescent city 👀)
🌛 a soft girl cinnamon roll fmc
🌞 friends to lovers & fated mates
🌛 spiceee
🌞 found family
January 28, 2023
it took me longer than expected to read it, but it was an amazing journey.
i started this book knowing it would be interesting and different. i've never read a book like this. i don't know if it's because i didn't read that many fantasy books or because this story is unique, but tell me if you've ever read anything like this. from the first word, i felt i was on a cloud, right there in the sky. i loved every second of it, every part of it, and the characters. when you read it, you'll meet this man who will steal your heart from the first second you meet him. then amala (aside from this beautiful name) is the sweetest. no, i swear, sometimes you may get angry with her, but she is so sweet, and she is the type of person who wants to see the good in everyone. the other characters are so funny and perfect.
a thing that really made me love this book was the scents. at first, i was confused, but then I thought, wow, this should exist in real life.
i loved this book, i completely got swept up in the story, and the whole time i wanted to know more, but at the same time i didn't want it to end. these 600+ pages were enough. the plot twist, man, it was something, and then the end... i felt that would happen, but it's so different when it happens.
when this book is out, you need to read it. this book is about light, crystals, scents, flowers, the sun, the moon, a temple, and gods and goddesses. this is what people need to read when they don't want to read the usual.
i have to say a big thank you to chiara for sending me this, and then i have to congratulate her for writing this amazing book. it's perfect!
i started this book knowing it would be interesting and different. i've never read a book like this. i don't know if it's because i didn't read that many fantasy books or because this story is unique, but tell me if you've ever read anything like this. from the first word, i felt i was on a cloud, right there in the sky. i loved every second of it, every part of it, and the characters. when you read it, you'll meet this man who will steal your heart from the first second you meet him. then amala (aside from this beautiful name) is the sweetest. no, i swear, sometimes you may get angry with her, but she is so sweet, and she is the type of person who wants to see the good in everyone. the other characters are so funny and perfect.
a thing that really made me love this book was the scents. at first, i was confused, but then I thought, wow, this should exist in real life.
i loved this book, i completely got swept up in the story, and the whole time i wanted to know more, but at the same time i didn't want it to end. these 600+ pages were enough. the plot twist, man, it was something, and then the end... i felt that would happen, but it's so different when it happens.
when this book is out, you need to read it. this book is about light, crystals, scents, flowers, the sun, the moon, a temple, and gods and goddesses. this is what people need to read when they don't want to read the usual.
i have to say a big thank you to chiara for sending me this, and then i have to congratulate her for writing this amazing book. it's perfect!
July 18, 2023
AHHHHHHHHHHHH. okay now that’s out of the way, PLEASE READ THIS BOOK. if you’re looking for a breath of fresh air and a fantasy book like no other, then this is for you. it doesn’t conform to the popular standard of fantasy but THATS WHAT I LOVE about it. it’s unique, it’s refreshing, it’s interesting, it’s whimsical, magical, *continues to rattle on about all the different words to describe TGATH*
Amala feels like home to me. she’s a ray of sunshine but yet has her own secrets and struggles that make her feel so relatable. her love story with Hawk is beautiful and the tension between them while waiting for their mating bond to snap was perfection. i can’t wait to find out more about her and Phoenix too- the poly representation is so great to see and so unique to TGATH. each character is so complex and beautiful and diverse.
THE FOUND FAMILY…. don’t even get me started. it was THE BEST. i’m in love with Hebex by the way (who isnt?!), i’d literally sell my soul to go and live with all of the priestesses eating fruit and lounging around in the sun celebrating femininity and the goddess.
the TWISTS at the end was so suspending and i’m cursing myself for not figuring it out, i can’t wait wait wait for the second book and i’ll be eagerly waiting until it’s released!!
(it’s also on KU so go go go)
Amala feels like home to me. she’s a ray of sunshine but yet has her own secrets and struggles that make her feel so relatable. her love story with Hawk is beautiful and the tension between them while waiting for their mating bond to snap was perfection. i can’t wait to find out more about her and Phoenix too- the poly representation is so great to see and so unique to TGATH. each character is so complex and beautiful and diverse.
THE FOUND FAMILY…. don’t even get me started. it was THE BEST. i’m in love with Hebex by the way (who isnt?!), i’d literally sell my soul to go and live with all of the priestesses eating fruit and lounging around in the sun celebrating femininity and the goddess.
the TWISTS at the end was so suspending and i’m cursing myself for not figuring it out, i can’t wait wait wait for the second book and i’ll be eagerly waiting until it’s released!!
(it’s also on KU so go go go)
September 20, 2023
this book took me to another dimension, it was amazing. the characters are well written with a lot of story behind them. you want a enemies to lovers trope? this book has it. you want a grumpy x sunshine trope? this book has it. here you have everything you wish for in a book, even crime and smut 🌶️. everything is written in details so you understand more about what you’re reading. if you feel like reading and learning about something like girl power/sisterhood this is the right book. i love how women were so well represented in here. although this book had big chapters and a lot of pages, which for some people is a dealbreaker, if you like this kind of books you’ll love to read this one. i wish the book was smaller with less pages and a little bit more “fast-paced” because sometimes I was kinda lost with all the information. above all, this was a amazing read. i never read something like this but i really enjoyed. congratulations 💗
May 7, 2023
Reading this was a religious experience. I am obsessed beyond belief. Chiara Gala has such a way with words. TGATH is lyrical, complex, feminine, divine, and ethereal. I cannot wait to read more works by the author. This book truly changed my life and how I view my relationship with the universe and femininity.
March 28, 2024
2.25 stars
I didn’t hate it but I didn’t like it. This could’ve easily been like 200 pages shorter and still have the same outcome. I did enjoy the main plot but there were too many other elements going on I couldn’t keep up and felt confused. I couldn’t get to grips with the modern technology yet it also being old fashioned, we’re riding centaurs but also driving cars??
I didn’t hate it but I didn’t like it. This could’ve easily been like 200 pages shorter and still have the same outcome. I did enjoy the main plot but there were too many other elements going on I couldn’t keep up and felt confused. I couldn’t get to grips with the modern technology yet it also being old fashioned, we’re riding centaurs but also driving cars??
June 15, 2023
ahhhhh omg this was just so good. i have been completely unable to put it down, and words cannot explain how much I have truly enjoyed reading this.
this book centres around the High Priestess Amala, and the events that happen after (<- name of the murderee...) is murdered. the Captain (a guy named Hawk, who actually has fangs... kind of!!) is put in charge of working out who was the murderer. the aspects of romance in this are perfectly mixed with the mystery and fantasy elements in a wonderful blend that is so easy to read. there is a lot of depth to the mystery, and I had absolutely no idea who had actually done it until it was actually revealed (and I'm normally pretty good at working out who had done it). and the plot twist right at the end??? mind-blowing!! i am in full adoration.
additionally, i absolutely adore the queer rep in this book. it was so well written and i don't feel that there were any loose ends that could've been tied up. there's a little bit of everything in this- lesbian rep (wahine, seryn, teleia), trans rep (teleia), bi rep (sinayla, medyr, serabel), gay rep (atalman), pan rep (amala & hawk 🫶), polyamorous rep (amala 🫶), ace rep (wahine), and so so much more! i am in such awe for how well covered this book is. and its very subtle, not an in-your-face "look at me!! I'm actually including queer characters!!", cause when its like that, i just cannot vibe with it. but very pleased to say it wasn't.
the only reason for why I'm not giving this brilliant book 5 stars is solely due to the plotline with the Phoenix. if that had been developed a tinyyyyy bit more, i would have 100% given this the full 5 stars.
this book centres around the High Priestess Amala, and the events that happen after (<- name of the murderee...) is murdered. the Captain (a guy named Hawk, who actually has fangs... kind of!!) is put in charge of working out who was the murderer. the aspects of romance in this are perfectly mixed with the mystery and fantasy elements in a wonderful blend that is so easy to read. there is a lot of depth to the mystery, and I had absolutely no idea who had actually done it until it was actually revealed (and I'm normally pretty good at working out who had done it). and the plot twist right at the end??? mind-blowing!! i am in full adoration.
additionally, i absolutely adore the queer rep in this book. it was so well written and i don't feel that there were any loose ends that could've been tied up. there's a little bit of everything in this- lesbian rep (wahine, seryn, teleia), trans rep (teleia), bi rep (sinayla, medyr, serabel), gay rep (atalman), pan rep (amala & hawk 🫶), polyamorous rep (amala 🫶), ace rep (wahine), and so so much more! i am in such awe for how well covered this book is. and its very subtle, not an in-your-face "look at me!! I'm actually including queer characters!!", cause when its like that, i just cannot vibe with it. but very pleased to say it wasn't.
the only reason for why I'm not giving this brilliant book 5 stars is solely due to the plotline with the Phoenix. if that had been developed a tinyyyyy bit more, i would have 100% given this the full 5 stars.
March 12, 2025
mediocre story, flat but somehow still exaggerated characters, waaaaay too much repetition and don't even get me started on the grammar. this book would have benefited from an editor. not to mention it's 600 pages long and somehow nothing happens. at all. it's like the entire book is a filler chapter.
February 1, 2023
I finished this before going to sleep and then spent the night hallucinating about priestesses and temples and whatnot. If that doesn't tell you it was good I really don't know what else I can say...
In all seriousness! I loved this. I received an early copy of The Goddess and the Hawk in a pr box and it was entirely perfect. Amala is a complete breathe of fresh air and completely full of love. And it's no secret that at my core I love my Nesta Archeron and Jude Duarte-esque characters, however there was a softness/pureness in Amala that I really needed (but didn't know it) to experience, she felt so fresh.
When Amala encounters a devastating loss in her life, Captain Mecurian (my newest book boyfriend) leads the investigation which uncovers more devastating secrets. Thus, Amala is forced to come to terms with truths and secrets and embrace her true self. And although this book is foremost a murder mystery, it's also a book of self discovery, love, loss and sisterhood. In a truly unique world which embraces both ancient traditions and modern technology, allowing the paths of two different worlds to pass, TGATH really brings a new type of story to urban fantasy. I'll also add that the plot twists had me screaming, as did the ending.
Thus I conclude my review by saying, if you're looking for something unique which opens a new world to spirituality, diving femininity, gods, goddesses etc. Read this.
In all seriousness! I loved this. I received an early copy of The Goddess and the Hawk in a pr box and it was entirely perfect. Amala is a complete breathe of fresh air and completely full of love. And it's no secret that at my core I love my Nesta Archeron and Jude Duarte-esque characters, however there was a softness/pureness in Amala that I really needed (but didn't know it) to experience, she felt so fresh.
When Amala encounters a devastating loss in her life, Captain Mecurian (my newest book boyfriend) leads the investigation which uncovers more devastating secrets. Thus, Amala is forced to come to terms with truths and secrets and embrace her true self. And although this book is foremost a murder mystery, it's also a book of self discovery, love, loss and sisterhood. In a truly unique world which embraces both ancient traditions and modern technology, allowing the paths of two different worlds to pass, TGATH really brings a new type of story to urban fantasy. I'll also add that the plot twists had me screaming, as did the ending.
Thus I conclude my review by saying, if you're looking for something unique which opens a new world to spirituality, diving femininity, gods, goddesses etc. Read this.
June 20, 2023
So I read The Goddess and The Hawk alongside my final year’s uni work and it was the perfect escape from reality I needed.
From the very first chapter, you are immediately transported into a world of divine femininity, worship, and passionate expression that will fill you with a kind of joy you will not find anywhere else.
The Goddess and The Hawk is a beautiful exploration of femininity, and how characters can maintain their strong, badass qualities while presenting themselves differently to others FMCs.
Literally every single person in this book is hot. Every single one. Their energy is so encapsulating you will want to spend all of your time with them.
Perfect perfect perfect found family trope. This is such an important factor in a book for me and it ticked every box. The raw, undiluted love between friends is so comforting and beautifully written.
Chiara will take you on a journey of divinity, fantasy, romance, and mystery that is nothing like you have ever read before 🧘♀️🤍🌝🏛️🐚🌞
I cannot wait for book 2🌙☀️🌙☀️🌙☀️
P.S. you will be getting a long-haired book boyfriend to add to the list so if that’s not enough to convince you then I don’t know what will🫶
From the very first chapter, you are immediately transported into a world of divine femininity, worship, and passionate expression that will fill you with a kind of joy you will not find anywhere else.
The Goddess and The Hawk is a beautiful exploration of femininity, and how characters can maintain their strong, badass qualities while presenting themselves differently to others FMCs.
Literally every single person in this book is hot. Every single one. Their energy is so encapsulating you will want to spend all of your time with them.
Perfect perfect perfect found family trope. This is such an important factor in a book for me and it ticked every box. The raw, undiluted love between friends is so comforting and beautifully written.
Chiara will take you on a journey of divinity, fantasy, romance, and mystery that is nothing like you have ever read before 🧘♀️🤍🌝🏛️🐚🌞
I cannot wait for book 2🌙☀️🌙☀️🌙☀️
P.S. you will be getting a long-haired book boyfriend to add to the list so if that’s not enough to convince you then I don’t know what will🫶
June 6, 2023
This was an amazing read! I was completely immersed from the beginning and I couldn’t put it down. The characters are so beautifully written. I couldn’t pick a favourite but I am obsessed with Hawk, Blade and Naressa. I adore the femininity and friendship described. I am so so excited to see how the story evolves.
The goddess and the hawk is the perfect book for everyone who loves fantasy, mystery and romance.
The goddess and the hawk is the perfect book for everyone who loves fantasy, mystery and romance.
February 18, 2023
This was an amazing read! Having 10 years of being a lover of all books fantasy, it is always a pleasure to live, and immerse myself in, a new world. I absolutely couldn’t put it down and felt so connected to Amala throughout the entire book. Beautiful world building and a beautiful concept, can’t wait to see what comes next 🤍
March 15, 2024
DNF @ 20%
I'm sorry but wtf is this book?
The writing/plot made NO sense and was way over-sexualised (and that's coming from someone who enjoys smut in books)
I'm sorry but wtf is this book?
The writing/plot made NO sense and was way over-sexualised (and that's coming from someone who enjoys smut in books)
December 9, 2023
Dnf after chapter one
- The prologue? A crime. At least 5 'there' in a row.
- the amount of telling? I don't need to know your entire backstory, miss, I haven't even decided if I like you yet! Just stay in the present. Show me stuff.
- I am far from a smut reader. But that's not the main issue here. Smut is survivable, if the book enchants me... Which, this one did not
- BUT... let me tell you about the 'vibe' I felt. I have no idea where it came from. I just felt it. Which is unusual for me, I am as ignorant to the intangible, as you can get. I don't know how to describe it, it was just energy. I think I felt the author and the love for her creation? It felt safe and comfy. (I'll go execute myself for witchcraft now, bye)
Overall: Book needs heavy editing, the author has great energy though.
- The prologue? A crime. At least 5 'there' in a row.
- the amount of telling? I don't need to know your entire backstory, miss, I haven't even decided if I like you yet! Just stay in the present. Show me stuff.
- I am far from a smut reader. But that's not the main issue here. Smut is survivable, if the book enchants me... Which, this one did not
- BUT... let me tell you about the 'vibe' I felt. I have no idea where it came from. I just felt it. Which is unusual for me, I am as ignorant to the intangible, as you can get. I don't know how to describe it, it was just energy. I think I felt the author and the love for her creation? It felt safe and comfy. (I'll go execute myself for witchcraft now, bye)
Overall: Book needs heavy editing, the author has great energy though.
January 24, 2023
I read this as an ARC/alpha reader a few months ago, I was totally amazed by the beautiful creative world building, the attention to detail in ever scene, every character with their own identifiable traits. If you want a book that weeks,months later you are still thinking about it, read this. The sisterhood/female divinity focus was very interesting for me to learn about and it really made me want to know more after reading this!
Chiara has made a beautiful story, AND THIS IS A DEBUT!!! Im so excited to see where the characters get taken, how the story evolves…
Fiction, mystery, romance, fantasy, its all there and its 100% worth the read🫶🏼🫶🏼🫶🏼🫶🏼
Chiara has made a beautiful story, AND THIS IS A DEBUT!!! Im so excited to see where the characters get taken, how the story evolves…
Fiction, mystery, romance, fantasy, its all there and its 100% worth the read🫶🏼🫶🏼🫶🏼🫶🏼
May 11, 2024
Rating: 4✨
Spice: 2.75🌶
This book was such an extremely fun & overall enjoyable read from beginning to end. I mean, who doesn't LOVE & isn't hooked by a well written múrder mystery? Because Chiara truly did an incredible job of developing this mystery, making you wonder who may have done it, while surprising you with twists & turns you didn't see coming. Now on top of that, add incredible characters you end up adoring & feeling like you cannot get enough of them. I cannot say enough how much I LOVED this book.
There's just something about the fated mates trope that always GETS me. But I truly loved seeing how well Hawk & Amala complimented each other. Now wait for it... this FMC has TWO fated mates. And the second one definitely left me intrigued. I cannot wait to learn more about their relationship & see it blossom. I'm BEYOND READY.
Let's start off with Queen Amala, because I'm telling you, this woman is everything. I can see her do NO wrong. She is sunshine personified & her heart is filled with the beautiful gold of her light. The strength she has & the love she is filled with is unmatched. She is kindness, she is love, sensuality & femininity. I feel like her character was so rich in a way, in the sense of how easy to love & root for she was. And that's not to say she is perfect, without flaws, because no one truly is. She has experienced pain, been broken, but was able to find her way back to the light & opened her heart again to care & worship others. It hurt to see how unworthy she felt of the path she was put in, but I'm looking forward to seeing her development in future books & see the love she has for herself continue to blossom. I also felt so comforted by her character, I wanted to give her the biggest hug.
Hawk, he had me constantly screaming, "WHEN WILL IT BE MY TURN?" When I say it was adorable to see how down bad he is for his mate, that man is DEVOTED & knows how to worship the one he loves. I was SWOONING CONSTANTLY. That's not to say he isn't intimidating as the city's captain, because he is. I enjoyed seeing who Hawk is when he is with people he cares for vs the captain who is ready to ensure the safety of his city. But the Hawk we see with Amala has to be my favorite one. And oh my lawd, he had me fanning myself from things he would say. Again, SWOONING I TELL YOU.
The side characters were also incredibly likable & left you wanting to also see their own stories develop. I cannot wait to see them again in future books! Honestly, I truly enjoyed being part of this world throughout my reading journey. And I truly appreciated how easy it was to follow the world building & the magic within it. If you're a lover of books with gods & goddesses, fated mates, friends-to-lovers type of love, the found family trope and diversity in characters, this is for YOU 🩵
Spice: 2.75🌶
This book was such an extremely fun & overall enjoyable read from beginning to end. I mean, who doesn't LOVE & isn't hooked by a well written múrder mystery? Because Chiara truly did an incredible job of developing this mystery, making you wonder who may have done it, while surprising you with twists & turns you didn't see coming. Now on top of that, add incredible characters you end up adoring & feeling like you cannot get enough of them. I cannot say enough how much I LOVED this book.
There's just something about the fated mates trope that always GETS me. But I truly loved seeing how well Hawk & Amala complimented each other. Now wait for it... this FMC has TWO fated mates. And the second one definitely left me intrigued. I cannot wait to learn more about their relationship & see it blossom. I'm BEYOND READY.
Let's start off with Queen Amala, because I'm telling you, this woman is everything. I can see her do NO wrong. She is sunshine personified & her heart is filled with the beautiful gold of her light. The strength she has & the love she is filled with is unmatched. She is kindness, she is love, sensuality & femininity. I feel like her character was so rich in a way, in the sense of how easy to love & root for she was. And that's not to say she is perfect, without flaws, because no one truly is. She has experienced pain, been broken, but was able to find her way back to the light & opened her heart again to care & worship others. It hurt to see how unworthy she felt of the path she was put in, but I'm looking forward to seeing her development in future books & see the love she has for herself continue to blossom. I also felt so comforted by her character, I wanted to give her the biggest hug.
Hawk, he had me constantly screaming, "WHEN WILL IT BE MY TURN?" When I say it was adorable to see how down bad he is for his mate, that man is DEVOTED & knows how to worship the one he loves. I was SWOONING CONSTANTLY. That's not to say he isn't intimidating as the city's captain, because he is. I enjoyed seeing who Hawk is when he is with people he cares for vs the captain who is ready to ensure the safety of his city. But the Hawk we see with Amala has to be my favorite one. And oh my lawd, he had me fanning myself from things he would say. Again, SWOONING I TELL YOU.
The side characters were also incredibly likable & left you wanting to also see their own stories develop. I cannot wait to see them again in future books! Honestly, I truly enjoyed being part of this world throughout my reading journey. And I truly appreciated how easy it was to follow the world building & the magic within it. If you're a lover of books with gods & goddesses, fated mates, friends-to-lovers type of love, the found family trope and diversity in characters, this is for YOU 🩵
February 12, 2023
I love this book!! The writing is beautiful, the descriptions phenomenal, this is like nothing I have read before. There are so many twists and turns, some where you have to sit a minute with the book closed at certain points to catch a breath. Straight off the bat this book I would recommend it being a 18+ due to the mature themes that are there throughout the novel but this is my opinion. If you love A Court of Silver Flames by the fabulous Sarah, J Maas this is the novel for you!!
In this book we follow Amala and Hawk on their own journeys of discovery and mystery. After a mysterious death their lives go into uproar as they try to find out who the killer is. Set in a modern world with a twist similar to that found in Harry Potter and Mortal Instruments. This novel explores sexuality, feminine power and the joy of loving ones soul and body which for some of us we need to appreciate more. Our bodies do amazing things, lets worship them a little more.
This for me is the first novel with a transgender character, characters who are involved with more than one lover (Polymerous) and free bleeding which is something I hadn't heard of before until I read this book (see kids, you do learn something new everyday!). I think with Chiara including all of these different elements it makes it more diverse and involves people from all walks of life, as well as honouring past traditions and practices. One thing I adore in this book and others I have read is the different perspectives that differs from chapter to chapter. This for me gives you the chance to gain more knowledge and understanding for a character, in total this book has three perspectives and I love it. You get to see certain characters from their points of view and hear their inner most thoughts without it changing how they are portrayed on the outside to others.
I feel extremely luck to have been given the opportunity to receive a PR Box from Chiara with themed goodies inside linked to the book (Thank you again!!), you can find a separate blog post about the box here on my blog.
We all know by now that I love a slow-burn or a enemies to lovers trope and this is one like no other, but I won't be spoiling it. You'll have to buy the book and see for yourself! And cliff-hangers?! Chiara does us dirty with the hanger that she leaves, me and the ending of this book has a love hate relationship so fingers crossed for a sequel! I would highly recommend this book, it is fun, sarcastic and utterly divine. One last note you will fall in love 100% for Howlite, you just can't help it it just happens (If you know, you know!)
Trigger Warnings: Sexual References, Religious Themes, Sex, Swearing, Murder, Death, Drug Use, Miscarriage, Labour and Blood.
In this book we follow Amala and Hawk on their own journeys of discovery and mystery. After a mysterious death their lives go into uproar as they try to find out who the killer is. Set in a modern world with a twist similar to that found in Harry Potter and Mortal Instruments. This novel explores sexuality, feminine power and the joy of loving ones soul and body which for some of us we need to appreciate more. Our bodies do amazing things, lets worship them a little more.
This for me is the first novel with a transgender character, characters who are involved with more than one lover (Polymerous) and free bleeding which is something I hadn't heard of before until I read this book (see kids, you do learn something new everyday!). I think with Chiara including all of these different elements it makes it more diverse and involves people from all walks of life, as well as honouring past traditions and practices. One thing I adore in this book and others I have read is the different perspectives that differs from chapter to chapter. This for me gives you the chance to gain more knowledge and understanding for a character, in total this book has three perspectives and I love it. You get to see certain characters from their points of view and hear their inner most thoughts without it changing how they are portrayed on the outside to others.
I feel extremely luck to have been given the opportunity to receive a PR Box from Chiara with themed goodies inside linked to the book (Thank you again!!), you can find a separate blog post about the box here on my blog.
We all know by now that I love a slow-burn or a enemies to lovers trope and this is one like no other, but I won't be spoiling it. You'll have to buy the book and see for yourself! And cliff-hangers?! Chiara does us dirty with the hanger that she leaves, me and the ending of this book has a love hate relationship so fingers crossed for a sequel! I would highly recommend this book, it is fun, sarcastic and utterly divine. One last note you will fall in love 100% for Howlite, you just can't help it it just happens (If you know, you know!)
Trigger Warnings: Sexual References, Religious Themes, Sex, Swearing, Murder, Death, Drug Use, Miscarriage, Labour and Blood.
June 29, 2023
So, I finally got around to finish this book and I wanted to share my opinion about it. I had started reading it earlier in the year but wasn't in the right state of mind to really appreciate it, hence finishing it much later.
I think this book is a book we never knew we needed until we read it. It's the first in its genre and I loved the divine energy radiating from the words Ms. Gala wrote. This book just takes you to another dimension and you can't help but enjoy the ride! The smut was also great, the plot overall was also very interesting. The queer and polyamory representation was also very refreshing to read.
The only thing I can say that witholds me from giving it 5 stars is that I did needed a bit of time to like get into the story, longer than usually in other books, it was very overwhelming in the beginning because there is this whole other world, there are Gods & Goddesses, the whole murder mystery and then the multitude of characters but once you got the hang of it, it was awesome!
I love the little snippets we got to see from the Phoenix and I think she is my favorite character!
Excited to read the other books in this series and congratulations on your debut, Ms. Gala, it is a great one!
I think this book is a book we never knew we needed until we read it. It's the first in its genre and I loved the divine energy radiating from the words Ms. Gala wrote. This book just takes you to another dimension and you can't help but enjoy the ride! The smut was also great, the plot overall was also very interesting. The queer and polyamory representation was also very refreshing to read.
The only thing I can say that witholds me from giving it 5 stars is that I did needed a bit of time to like get into the story, longer than usually in other books, it was very overwhelming in the beginning because there is this whole other world, there are Gods & Goddesses, the whole murder mystery and then the multitude of characters but once you got the hang of it, it was awesome!
I love the little snippets we got to see from the Phoenix and I think she is my favorite character!
Excited to read the other books in this series and congratulations on your debut, Ms. Gala, it is a great one!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 6, 2023
TW: violence, death, murder, torture, miscarriage, drugs and explicit sexual activity.
the goddes and the hawk is the perfect book for everyone who loves adult fantasy (it talks about gods, goddesses, divine feminine, spirituality), romance (we have slowburn romance, friends to lovers, grumpy x sunshine and enemies to lovers?) and murder mistery. i´ve never read something like this.
the world was so beautifully constructed: the temples and the districts of each element, so different but so special.
i absolutely loved how every character was so unique: they all have their own power and the fact they have a characteristic scent? wow, i wished this was a real thing ahah. Amala is the sweetest person ever, her heart is so big. i wish we have more Amalas in the real world. and Hawk? 👀 new book boyfriend!! i love him. i can’t choose my favorite but… Blade, Naressa and Hebex are on the top for sure.
this book is biggg (600+ pages) but it´s worth every single page. the plot twists? AMAZING. i can´t wait to read the next book (yes, it´s a trilogy!)
the goddes and the hawk is the perfect book for everyone who loves adult fantasy (it talks about gods, goddesses, divine feminine, spirituality), romance (we have slowburn romance, friends to lovers, grumpy x sunshine and enemies to lovers?) and murder mistery. i´ve never read something like this.
the world was so beautifully constructed: the temples and the districts of each element, so different but so special.
i absolutely loved how every character was so unique: they all have their own power and the fact they have a characteristic scent? wow, i wished this was a real thing ahah. Amala is the sweetest person ever, her heart is so big. i wish we have more Amalas in the real world. and Hawk? 👀 new book boyfriend!! i love him. i can’t choose my favorite but… Blade, Naressa and Hebex are on the top for sure.
this book is biggg (600+ pages) but it´s worth every single page. the plot twists? AMAZING. i can´t wait to read the next book (yes, it´s a trilogy!)
June 30, 2023
It has been such a long ride with Amala, Hawk, and the others. But what a ride! I have never been so invested in a murder mystery before but this one is nothing like the others if you know what I mean 😉 Even so Chiara has a way of keeping you intrigued whether it be by her talent of hiding the true villains of the stories or giving us such a unique multi POV with so many loveable characters. She goes into heavy but exciting detail of this divine feminine world she has built for all of us to get lost in and helping us to release our own energy. I will never stop recommending this everyone I know. This is the easiest 5 star hands down. ❤️
February 21, 2023
It took me some time to get to this book but as soon as i got into it, I was eating this book up! I have never read a book with these kinds of themes before, there is so many taboo things that I’m so glad was brought up in a non negative-, but a realistic kind of way
TW: Miscarriage - the taboo subject of feeling guilty for not being able to have a healthy pregnancy - Amala feeling like she is her fault for not being able to go through the pregnancy and being accused of not being able to. This happens for so many women and we should be able to talk about it and we should also never blame the women for an unsuccessful pregnancy
- Female masturbation - not necessarily making it a sexual thing but a natural thing (which it is) - if society can accept men being sexual active with themselves, why can’t women?
I LOVE LOVE LOVE the magical aspect of this book:
The yonium which is the temple for the female priestesses : gives lots elvish vibes just like the aura the surrounds the elves from lord of the rings.
Centours - loving the different creatures kinda resembles other cultures
The air, earth, fire powers - MY FANTASY LOVING HEART LOVES THIS (I hope to see more of this)
Sunshine FMC - I always love my badass not falling for anyones shit fmc but a sunshine FMC was so refreshing and I enjoyed her so much, my cinnamon roll. Amala was so loving and cute to read about but at the same time I wish she knew how worthy she is😩
The romance plot had the perfect amount of spice and the slow burn, burned so goood👏🏻 The tension was CHEFS KISS - I love them together and I wish to read more amala x hawk
The only reason it didn’t get 5 ⭐️ (which is rarely give a book)
The murder mystery seemed a little too slow pace for me, I wanted more clues during the book, but the end reveal(s) were so good tho!
Many characters and names can confuse me but that’s my brain and not the book
TW: Miscarriage - the taboo subject of feeling guilty for not being able to have a healthy pregnancy - Amala feeling like she is her fault for not being able to go through the pregnancy and being accused of not being able to. This happens for so many women and we should be able to talk about it and we should also never blame the women for an unsuccessful pregnancy
- Female masturbation - not necessarily making it a sexual thing but a natural thing (which it is) - if society can accept men being sexual active with themselves, why can’t women?
I LOVE LOVE LOVE the magical aspect of this book:
The yonium which is the temple for the female priestesses : gives lots elvish vibes just like the aura the surrounds the elves from lord of the rings.
Centours - loving the different creatures kinda resembles other cultures
The air, earth, fire powers - MY FANTASY LOVING HEART LOVES THIS (I hope to see more of this)
Sunshine FMC - I always love my badass not falling for anyones shit fmc but a sunshine FMC was so refreshing and I enjoyed her so much, my cinnamon roll. Amala was so loving and cute to read about but at the same time I wish she knew how worthy she is😩
The romance plot had the perfect amount of spice and the slow burn, burned so goood👏🏻 The tension was CHEFS KISS - I love them together and I wish to read more amala x hawk
The only reason it didn’t get 5 ⭐️ (which is rarely give a book)
The murder mystery seemed a little too slow pace for me, I wanted more clues during the book, but the end reveal(s) were so good tho!
Many characters and names can confuse me but that’s my brain and not the book
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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July 23, 2023Love love love! (Spoilers ahead)
I absolutely loved this book! I didn't love the ending beacuse we couldn't see any wlw from Amala and the Phoenix. I think that a sequel would be a great idea but I do not have any ideas how the plot could continue, I just want to see how the characters revolve and if the Phoenix will actually do something about her mate !
I absolutely loved this book! I didn't love the ending beacuse we couldn't see any wlw from Amala and the Phoenix. I think that a sequel would be a great idea but I do not have any ideas how the plot could continue, I just want to see how the characters revolve and if the Phoenix will actually do something about her mate !
March 28, 2023
This book was absolutely magical. I resonated so deeply with Amala. It was written beautifully with a pace that kept you reading but allowed you to take in the piece of soul Gala had put into this. This is a definitely a book I will return to, so empowering and inspiring. It is definitely unlike any other book I’ve read for all the right reasons. I wish people wrote fiction like this more.
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