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Amaranthine Inheritance #1
Nectar and Ambrosia
Callie, a Classics major, flees home to protect her family from a monster straight out of mythology. Visions lead her to Nectar and Ambrosia: the weirdest pub on Earth, where inter-dimensional travelers with attention seeking issues get drunk in between the A-list celebrity lives they create. They can't pretend to be gods anymore—not since a treaty with the current Supreme Deity promising they won't intervene in human affairs.
The Doorkeeper of this threshold, Florian, rides herd on the rowdy Amaranthine and offers her shelter and a job. Callie likes the lonely, mysterious bartender more than she should. For Florian, her presence is a ray of light in the gray monotony of his sentence behind the bar, but he keeps a cautious distance—the truth of how he became Doorkeeper could change Callie's perception of him forever.
When angels show up for a war council over Zeus's irrational mutters about a comeback, Callie has uncontrolled visions of an apocalypse. Ex-gods realize she’s the first Oracle Priestess in generations. All Callie wanted was keep her parents safe, and now it seems she must sacrifice her future to keep the rest of humanity safe, too. Ambrosia could be the key to harnessing her visions— or it could cost her life.
War is coming. The threshold between worlds has never been more fragile. Callie must discover who is pulling Zeus's strings and avert the final battle—before the immortal vying to become the next Supreme Deity kills her first.
The Doorkeeper of this threshold, Florian, rides herd on the rowdy Amaranthine and offers her shelter and a job. Callie likes the lonely, mysterious bartender more than she should. For Florian, her presence is a ray of light in the gray monotony of his sentence behind the bar, but he keeps a cautious distance—the truth of how he became Doorkeeper could change Callie's perception of him forever.
When angels show up for a war council over Zeus's irrational mutters about a comeback, Callie has uncontrolled visions of an apocalypse. Ex-gods realize she’s the first Oracle Priestess in generations. All Callie wanted was keep her parents safe, and now it seems she must sacrifice her future to keep the rest of humanity safe, too. Ambrosia could be the key to harnessing her visions— or it could cost her life.
War is coming. The threshold between worlds has never been more fragile. Callie must discover who is pulling Zeus's strings and avert the final battle—before the immortal vying to become the next Supreme Deity kills her first.
- GenresUrban FantasyFantasy
Audiobook
First published June 30, 2018
3 people are currently reading
56 people want to read
About the author
E.M. Hamill
13 books105 followersE.M. (Elisabeth) Hamill writes adult science fiction and fantasy somewhere in the wilds of eastern suburban Kansas. A nurse by day, wordsmith by night, she has sworn never to grow up and get boring.
Frequently under the influence of caffeinated beverages, she also writes as Elisabeth Hamill for young adult readers in fantasy with the award-winning Songmaker series.
She lives with her family, where they fend off flying monkey attacks and prep for the zombie apocalypse.
Frequently under the influence of caffeinated beverages, she also writes as Elisabeth Hamill for young adult readers in fantasy with the award-winning Songmaker series.
She lives with her family, where they fend off flying monkey attacks and prep for the zombie apocalypse.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
July 22, 2018
This is a quirky UF book about mythological gods in contemporary times. They either have a big dose of ennui or they've reached celebrity status. Some have successful TV shows, are involved in music, or porn. And social media is big. As is drinking, and Doorkeeper Florian's oasis of a threshold bar sees it's fair share of deities, fae, and more. It also has the latest Delphian Oracle for millennia to turn up, but this is Nectar and Ambrosia so anything's possible.
Blog review-
Blog review-
August 31, 2018
Okay, I'm a MAJOR geek when it comes to fantasy, mythology, and great imagination. This book did it for me and I tend to be a harsh critic. I just can't criticized this book at all, I LOVE this book! It has kept my attention throughout the book. I love Cassie. But I have a funny feeling that Puck will be my favorite if there are anymore series after this one. This is one of THE BEST urban (there should be another word in place of urban.) Fantasy ever! Please write more books on them. I'm forever E.M. Hamill'so fan! I received this ARC through Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
GET THIS BOOK!
I’ll say it again...
GET THIS BOOK!
GET THIS BOOK!
I’ll say it again...
GET THIS BOOK!
May 23, 2019
I really enjoyed this, it has a fun unique twist on mythology. I love the mix of gods, angels, and fae. I really enjoyed the world building and meeting the characters. The storyline was intriguing and kept me hooked from the beginning. I'm really eager to read more. If you like urban fantasy and/or different takes on mythology, I can't recommend this enough.
The narration by Keira Stevens was fantastic. She differentiated the characters just enough that I could easily follow who was who.
The narration by Keira Stevens was fantastic. She differentiated the characters just enough that I could easily follow who was who.
May 24, 2019
Nectar and Ambrosia was an interesting and unique twist on mythology and the old Gods in modern times and it held my interest until the end. The character were fun and likable and very much relatable in today's world. I enjoyed seeing how they interacted with each other and the ease with with relationship were formed.
I love the plot, it was an interesting concept with some twists and turns I did not see coming. It was hilarious, suspenseful and mysterious with very little romance which allowed you to focus on the story.
The audible version was narrated by Keira Stevens who did an amazing job with the characters. She was able to vary her voice to capture the different characters and she really made the listening experience enjoyable.
I greatly enjoyed this novel and would highly recommend it to all Urban Fantasy lovers.
I love the plot, it was an interesting concept with some twists and turns I did not see coming. It was hilarious, suspenseful and mysterious with very little romance which allowed you to focus on the story.
The audible version was narrated by Keira Stevens who did an amazing job with the characters. She was able to vary her voice to capture the different characters and she really made the listening experience enjoyable.
I greatly enjoyed this novel and would highly recommend it to all Urban Fantasy lovers.
April 3, 2019
I’m a fan of Urban Fantasy. I tend to like the mash-up of a modern setting with older mythologies, as it makes those old fantastical stories seem more current and real. I also really enjoyed E.M. Hamill’s previous title, Dali. As such, I went into this one with high hopes. In short, I wasn’t disappointed.
E.M. Hamill’s writing is as smooth as ever, and the move from a science fiction setting to something more contemporary is handled with ease. And all the while drawing on what must have been a hefty amount of research into all manner of deities. From Christianity to the Greek pantheon, the Fae to the Sidhe, they all make an appearance in one for another. While given a new lick of paint to fit the modern world they venture into, each has clear motivations that tie into their roots too. I think that what perhaps impressed me the most though was the way that the large cast was dealt with. Sure, some characters get more time on page than others, but each one has a distinct feel to them. Even when dealing with deities that you don’t have major knowledge of, you get a real sense of their current state of mind and goals. The revelation of their origins was also fun.
In terms of the characters we get to spend the most time with, I was happy to see our protagonist Callie being so likable. She starts the book on the run and stumbles into a mysterious bar in an effort to escape the monster that’s hunting her. Through the course of the book, we get plenty of little glimpses into her life, and the way she adapts to her changing situation feels natural. She’s upbeat, and willing to throw caution aside when needed, but not without doubts and worries.
Her romantic interest, Florian, is also an interesting one to get to grips with. His backstory leaves him trapped within the confines of the bar, but also unaged from the day of his incarceration. He’s far older than Callie, but due to the aging part of his sentence, they fit well as a couple. He’s sweet in the way he approaches romance. That he’s more than capable of keeping his otherworldly patrons in check is an added bonus.
And of course, who doesn’t love a good Puck? The trickster is present throughout the novel and plays a fairly large part in the overall arc. Here, Hamill presents him in a way that balances out the positives of his personality with the potential negative edge to the way he naturally behaves.
In terms of the story, how much you enjoy it will depend entirely on how you feel about Urban Fantasy as a genre. We get a scene-setting opening, then a lot of world-building, and finally a quick build to a more frenetic ending. Throughout the book, the romance builds steadily, and we get an HFN for the couple. As a fan of the genre, I enjoyed it, but if you prefer your books to be fast paced and action heavy, this won’t necessarily be your cup of tea. From a personal standpoint though, the only real criticism I have is that Florian wasn’t aware that his bisexuality would be better received now than in his days of freedom. His bar is always full of deities that walk among the world, and he knows who they’ve taken the form of, so I kinda figured he’d understand some of the changes in the outside world. This is a minor gripe though, and one that is more than balanced out by the interesting use of the various Gods instead of the standard vampires and shifters.
In all, this is a book that fits well within the Urban Fantasy genre and has a really interesting premise to boot. Throw in a likable lead and you’ve got a fun read. This is an easy 5 out of 5.
E.M. Hamill’s writing is as smooth as ever, and the move from a science fiction setting to something more contemporary is handled with ease. And all the while drawing on what must have been a hefty amount of research into all manner of deities. From Christianity to the Greek pantheon, the Fae to the Sidhe, they all make an appearance in one for another. While given a new lick of paint to fit the modern world they venture into, each has clear motivations that tie into their roots too. I think that what perhaps impressed me the most though was the way that the large cast was dealt with. Sure, some characters get more time on page than others, but each one has a distinct feel to them. Even when dealing with deities that you don’t have major knowledge of, you get a real sense of their current state of mind and goals. The revelation of their origins was also fun.
In terms of the characters we get to spend the most time with, I was happy to see our protagonist Callie being so likable. She starts the book on the run and stumbles into a mysterious bar in an effort to escape the monster that’s hunting her. Through the course of the book, we get plenty of little glimpses into her life, and the way she adapts to her changing situation feels natural. She’s upbeat, and willing to throw caution aside when needed, but not without doubts and worries.
Her romantic interest, Florian, is also an interesting one to get to grips with. His backstory leaves him trapped within the confines of the bar, but also unaged from the day of his incarceration. He’s far older than Callie, but due to the aging part of his sentence, they fit well as a couple. He’s sweet in the way he approaches romance. That he’s more than capable of keeping his otherworldly patrons in check is an added bonus.
And of course, who doesn’t love a good Puck? The trickster is present throughout the novel and plays a fairly large part in the overall arc. Here, Hamill presents him in a way that balances out the positives of his personality with the potential negative edge to the way he naturally behaves.
In terms of the story, how much you enjoy it will depend entirely on how you feel about Urban Fantasy as a genre. We get a scene-setting opening, then a lot of world-building, and finally a quick build to a more frenetic ending. Throughout the book, the romance builds steadily, and we get an HFN for the couple. As a fan of the genre, I enjoyed it, but if you prefer your books to be fast paced and action heavy, this won’t necessarily be your cup of tea. From a personal standpoint though, the only real criticism I have is that Florian wasn’t aware that his bisexuality would be better received now than in his days of freedom. His bar is always full of deities that walk among the world, and he knows who they’ve taken the form of, so I kinda figured he’d understand some of the changes in the outside world. This is a minor gripe though, and one that is more than balanced out by the interesting use of the various Gods instead of the standard vampires and shifters.
In all, this is a book that fits well within the Urban Fantasy genre and has a really interesting premise to boot. Throw in a likable lead and you’ve got a fun read. This is an easy 5 out of 5.
August 22, 2018
Nectar and Ambrosia
von E.M. Hamill
Star Bard Books
Cover:
just a magical cover
Review:
"Callie, a Classics major, flees home to protect her family from a monster straight out of mythology. Visions lead her to Nectar and Ambrosia: the weirdest pub on Earth, where inter-dimensional travelers with attention seeking issues get drunk in between the A-list celebrity lives they create. The Doorkeeper of this threshold, Florian, rides herd on the rowdy Amaranthine and offers her shelter and a job. Callie likes the lonely, mysterious bartender more than she should. For Florian, her presence is a ray of light in the gray monotony of his sentence behind the bar, but he keeps a cautious distance—the truth of how he became Doorkeeper could change Callie's perception of him forever. War is coming. The threshold between worlds has never been more fragile. Callie must discover who is pulling Zeus's strings and avert the final battle—before the immortal vying to become the next Supreme Deity kills her first."
This book is an urban fantasy book of the finest. Even if you are not very familiar with mythology, you will understand them in this book, and since it is more modern-going, it is also easy. The theme may be a little reminiscent of gods of america, but the story is different. The characters were fabulous, the plot was fast-paced, and the serious action was nicely broken up by scenes that made me laugh out loud, hard.
Do not expect the great love story in this book, even if much may suggest it. But even in real life love is often not enough when it comes to more important things. So the clothes definitely stay here! :) Nevertheless, it gives the reader the secret hope of things that could eventually be and that's really nice. Callie and Florian were wonderful characters who harmonized very well with each other and others. They grew in their experiences and the minor characters were also wonderfully represented. The action takes place mainly in the pub and yet it was exciting and entertaining and extensive. In addition to the overarching conflict, there were plenty of individual stories and threads running through the narrative. If you’re into spins and new takes on the old deities, a fast-paced storyline, and characters who seem utterly real, then I can’t recommend this one enough.
There was a lot of string-pulling and plot-threads being woven together, and the end result was a refreshing, complex, and vivid story…one that I am anxiously awaiting a sequel to! 5/5 stars
Thanks to Netgalley and Star Bard Books for the review copy.
von E.M. Hamill
Star Bard Books
Cover:
just a magical cover
Review:
"Callie, a Classics major, flees home to protect her family from a monster straight out of mythology. Visions lead her to Nectar and Ambrosia: the weirdest pub on Earth, where inter-dimensional travelers with attention seeking issues get drunk in between the A-list celebrity lives they create. The Doorkeeper of this threshold, Florian, rides herd on the rowdy Amaranthine and offers her shelter and a job. Callie likes the lonely, mysterious bartender more than she should. For Florian, her presence is a ray of light in the gray monotony of his sentence behind the bar, but he keeps a cautious distance—the truth of how he became Doorkeeper could change Callie's perception of him forever. War is coming. The threshold between worlds has never been more fragile. Callie must discover who is pulling Zeus's strings and avert the final battle—before the immortal vying to become the next Supreme Deity kills her first."
This book is an urban fantasy book of the finest. Even if you are not very familiar with mythology, you will understand them in this book, and since it is more modern-going, it is also easy. The theme may be a little reminiscent of gods of america, but the story is different. The characters were fabulous, the plot was fast-paced, and the serious action was nicely broken up by scenes that made me laugh out loud, hard.
Do not expect the great love story in this book, even if much may suggest it. But even in real life love is often not enough when it comes to more important things. So the clothes definitely stay here! :) Nevertheless, it gives the reader the secret hope of things that could eventually be and that's really nice. Callie and Florian were wonderful characters who harmonized very well with each other and others. They grew in their experiences and the minor characters were also wonderfully represented. The action takes place mainly in the pub and yet it was exciting and entertaining and extensive. In addition to the overarching conflict, there were plenty of individual stories and threads running through the narrative. If you’re into spins and new takes on the old deities, a fast-paced storyline, and characters who seem utterly real, then I can’t recommend this one enough.
There was a lot of string-pulling and plot-threads being woven together, and the end result was a refreshing, complex, and vivid story…one that I am anxiously awaiting a sequel to! 5/5 stars
Thanks to Netgalley and Star Bard Books for the review copy.
dnf
December 25, 2018DNF @ 31%
This sadly failed to engage me at all. The premise, characters and plot all felt predictable and like something I've seen before. I tried getting back into it several times and just... couldn't. Might pick it up again sometime in the future, but for now I'm putting it on hold
This sadly failed to engage me at all. The premise, characters and plot all felt predictable and like something I've seen before. I tried getting back into it several times and just... couldn't. Might pick it up again sometime in the future, but for now I'm putting it on hold
July 9, 2018
It's no secret, I'm a huge fan of E.M. Hamil's writing, and if you haven't read Dali you need to check it out (Here). But this book is a bit of a different beast. Where Dali was Sci-Fi, this story is more Urban Fantasy, but clever fantasy and I've always said: "I'll read anything as long as it's a clever story."
Our heroine is Callie, short for Calliope - a name which should ring bells. In Greek mythology, Calliope was the muse of eloquence and epic poetry, an apt name for our character if you ask me. The very beginning of our tale starts off with Calliope, as she stumbles into a bar while being chased by a banshee, seeking refuge, and she finds that and so much more.
I can't possibly tell you anything more than that, otherwise, it would be a spoiler and I really want you to read this.
What I will tell you, is that every pantheon of gods shows up throughout this book, and the dynamics of who they are, what they've been doing and why they haven't been around are discussed and explained. Brilliant. Utter brilliance. I've read a few similar stories but Hamil has finally come up with a concept that works, is exceptionally told and kept me flipping the pages. And by the way - I might know a thing or two about several pantheons of god (being the pagan sort of lad I am - and having read a good chunk of many myths). The research and knowledge shown in this book regarding the various diety was nothing short of masterful!
I devoured this book in a few quick reading sessions.
But then, how could you not with gleaming passages like these:
"The scarlet cape swirled about him like blood in water as he jumped to his feet."
and
"I may be a few biscuits short of a tin, but I can shoulder my part of the burden."
and my favorite
"A twitch distorted the side of her mouth as the goddess picked up her daiquiri and drained the glass of icy slush in an impressive show of brain-freeze immunity."
Clearly, the muse herself was sitting elbow to elbow with the author when she wrote these lines.
Now for those of you who read my reviews, you've already noted that the books I read have lead characters who are LGBT, and this book drives in the opposite direction, but here's why I made the exception: The secondary main character, Florian, the bartender is Bisexual, and the host of gods and demigods that show up have no qualms about who they select as potential partners.
Seriously? You mean I could have had sex with Ares, God of War? Sigh .
Oh, and a quick "Wow, that's gorgeous!" to whoever did the cover, because it couldn't have been more perfect.
Hamil's book Dali was bloody brilliant, and Nectar and Ambrosia, I dare say, was as good, if not better. Guaranteed from this moment on, I'll be picking up and reading anything E.M. Hamil decides to put words to.
I suggest you do the same!
Our heroine is Callie, short for Calliope - a name which should ring bells. In Greek mythology, Calliope was the muse of eloquence and epic poetry, an apt name for our character if you ask me. The very beginning of our tale starts off with Calliope, as she stumbles into a bar while being chased by a banshee, seeking refuge, and she finds that and so much more.
I can't possibly tell you anything more than that, otherwise, it would be a spoiler and I really want you to read this.
What I will tell you, is that every pantheon of gods shows up throughout this book, and the dynamics of who they are, what they've been doing and why they haven't been around are discussed and explained. Brilliant. Utter brilliance. I've read a few similar stories but Hamil has finally come up with a concept that works, is exceptionally told and kept me flipping the pages. And by the way - I might know a thing or two about several pantheons of god (being the pagan sort of lad I am - and having read a good chunk of many myths). The research and knowledge shown in this book regarding the various diety was nothing short of masterful!
I devoured this book in a few quick reading sessions.
But then, how could you not with gleaming passages like these:
"The scarlet cape swirled about him like blood in water as he jumped to his feet."
and
"I may be a few biscuits short of a tin, but I can shoulder my part of the burden."
and my favorite
"A twitch distorted the side of her mouth as the goddess picked up her daiquiri and drained the glass of icy slush in an impressive show of brain-freeze immunity."
Clearly, the muse herself was sitting elbow to elbow with the author when she wrote these lines.
Now for those of you who read my reviews, you've already noted that the books I read have lead characters who are LGBT, and this book drives in the opposite direction, but here's why I made the exception: The secondary main character, Florian, the bartender is Bisexual, and the host of gods and demigods that show up have no qualms about who they select as potential partners.
Seriously? You mean I could have had sex with Ares, God of War? Sigh .
Oh, and a quick "Wow, that's gorgeous!" to whoever did the cover, because it couldn't have been more perfect.
Hamil's book Dali was bloody brilliant, and Nectar and Ambrosia, I dare say, was as good, if not better. Guaranteed from this moment on, I'll be picking up and reading anything E.M. Hamil decides to put words to.
I suggest you do the same!
July 13, 2018
I received a copy of Nectar and Ambrosia by E.M. Hamill via IndiGo Marketing & Design in exchange for an honest review. The book starts out typically for urban fantasy with an attractive young woman, Callie, stumbling into a world she knew nothing about and where she meets an attractive man. It starts to get interesting when his bar is host to all the pantheons of history, including the sidhe. As a former classics major myself, I really enjoyed all the classical mythology in the story. However, the author makes it accessible to anyone who has a basic knowledge of myths. The explanation for the plethora of pantheons is fun and makes them approachable, even for Callie who grew up venerating them. Of course Calle prevents the apocalypse, although enough mysteries remain for future books. The author leaves the reader wondering if much magic is just technology we don’t understand yet. A fresh voice in UF.
September 13, 2018
Callie is on the run, fleeing a terrifying creature and following visions that end up guiding her to an exclusive bar and hotel called Nectar and Ambrosia. Managed by Florian, a man with a mysterious past who gets her heart thumping, it caters to former gods and other mythical beings. Since Callie was able to see the sign seeking help and find the door, Florian hires her on the spot to be the new waitress. She thinks she's taking a simple job, not too unlike the bars she'd worked in before, but quickly learns the old gods are real, and enjoy alcohol to excess. But her visions don't leave her. Instead, the show battle and fire and mysterious figures. Turns out Callie is the first Oracle in generations and averting war between the old gods and the new falls in her shoulders. All while navigating her growing feelings for Florian, whose past has the potential to break them apart.
As a fan of Greek mythology, I lept into this book as soon as I got it. And then prayed my kids would nap for awhile because I seriously did not want to put it down.
This book is a delicious balance of being character and plot driven. Neither suffers while the characters develop and the plot relentlessly presses forward. They feed off of each other, resulting in a book where everyone and everything felt incredibly natural.
Let's talk characters first. I loved Callie, but, for someone who studied the Classics, I was a little disappointed in her lapse of knowledge about the Oracle. Something new was always popping up, something she should have known, and it always caught her off guard. But her character matured naturally and I never got the feeling it was forced for the sake of the story. As for Florian, he was more static and unchanging, but it was a nice counterpoint to Callie and how her life was completely turned on its head. Besides, much of his maturation was done before the story starts.
As a matter of fact, all of the characters were delightful. Hamill took the raw material of each god and mythical creature and gave them a fitting life of their own. Normally, when I read anything using Greek mythology, I have something to complain about. But not this time. Hamill was brilliant with each and every creature, keeping them true to mythology, but also expanding on them. The final twist to them was not entirely mind-blowing, but incredibly satisfying and completely believable.
The story was artfully crafted. Even though there will likely be more books, as the ending hinted, this is a fully contained story on its own. We get mystery, intrigue, romance, war, and an ending, though not the ending. The conflict builds, reaches its peak, and is resolved in a most natural and satisfactory way. It makes sense, every step of it. If I have one criticism, it would be that it happened rather quickly. Plot points were reached naturally, but it seemed to be one thing after another and the reader, and Callie, are never really given a moment to sit and think.
Clearly, Florian was meant to be Callie's love interest, but their interest in each other made sense. However, this made for some heavily romantic, but innocent, moments that I, personally, could have done with less of. I appreciated that Hamill clearly showed their attraction to each other without throwing them together at the first opportunity, though. Instead, Callie and Florian cautiously explored their budding romance, always keeping true to who they are.
And, clearly, I really enjoyed this book. While the focus is heavily on Greek mythology, all pantheons and kinds of mythical creatures were up for grabs and Hamill deftly used them to tell an amazing story about clashing gods and the one person with the power to save the world.
Note: Thank you to NetGalley for a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Blog: https://thelilycafe.wordpress.com/
As a fan of Greek mythology, I lept into this book as soon as I got it. And then prayed my kids would nap for awhile because I seriously did not want to put it down.
This book is a delicious balance of being character and plot driven. Neither suffers while the characters develop and the plot relentlessly presses forward. They feed off of each other, resulting in a book where everyone and everything felt incredibly natural.
Let's talk characters first. I loved Callie, but, for someone who studied the Classics, I was a little disappointed in her lapse of knowledge about the Oracle. Something new was always popping up, something she should have known, and it always caught her off guard. But her character matured naturally and I never got the feeling it was forced for the sake of the story. As for Florian, he was more static and unchanging, but it was a nice counterpoint to Callie and how her life was completely turned on its head. Besides, much of his maturation was done before the story starts.
As a matter of fact, all of the characters were delightful. Hamill took the raw material of each god and mythical creature and gave them a fitting life of their own. Normally, when I read anything using Greek mythology, I have something to complain about. But not this time. Hamill was brilliant with each and every creature, keeping them true to mythology, but also expanding on them. The final twist to them was not entirely mind-blowing, but incredibly satisfying and completely believable.
The story was artfully crafted. Even though there will likely be more books, as the ending hinted, this is a fully contained story on its own. We get mystery, intrigue, romance, war, and an ending, though not the ending. The conflict builds, reaches its peak, and is resolved in a most natural and satisfactory way. It makes sense, every step of it. If I have one criticism, it would be that it happened rather quickly. Plot points were reached naturally, but it seemed to be one thing after another and the reader, and Callie, are never really given a moment to sit and think.
Clearly, Florian was meant to be Callie's love interest, but their interest in each other made sense. However, this made for some heavily romantic, but innocent, moments that I, personally, could have done with less of. I appreciated that Hamill clearly showed their attraction to each other without throwing them together at the first opportunity, though. Instead, Callie and Florian cautiously explored their budding romance, always keeping true to who they are.
And, clearly, I really enjoyed this book. While the focus is heavily on Greek mythology, all pantheons and kinds of mythical creatures were up for grabs and Hamill deftly used them to tell an amazing story about clashing gods and the one person with the power to save the world.
Note: Thank you to NetGalley for a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Blog: https://thelilycafe.wordpress.com/
August 17, 2019
A Wonderful,Unique Story! Fantastic Narration🎧
Nectar and Ambrosia
Amaranthine Inheritance Novel
By: E. M. Hamill
Narrated by: Keira Stevens
This is a well written, well told story with original storylines and interesting characters. E.M. Hamill created an imaginative and fascinating world where mythological gods, angels, demons, Fae and other supernatural creatures living on earth amongst the humans. Callie was always interested in mythology, studied the classics, when she is threatened by what appears to be a mythological creature she goes on the run, she finds safety at a place off the beat and path, a pub called Nectar and Ambrosia. Which turns out to be in another dimension on Earth and a place where she is safe. I loved the premise of this place, those who visit it as well as the dynamics of the threshold and the world. Also loved the premise behind the gods and visiting aliens, imaginative way to incorporated SciFi into Religion, makes you wonder too. I enjoyed how everything played out, great plotting, never a dull moment with plenty of drama, action, twists and some heartfelt moments. It is the type of book you can not put down, it is enjoyable and entertaining. E.M. Hamill thank you for this great story.
I listened to the Audible edition, Keira Stevens is a wonderfully talented narrator and a versatile voice performer. She brings these characters to life, gives each their own voice and personality, as well has heart and attitude. She does an amazing job with different accents, she switches character roles effortlessly without missing a beat. She is an entertaining storyteller and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for another great listen🎧
Nectar and Ambrosia
Amaranthine Inheritance Novel
By: E. M. Hamill
Narrated by: Keira Stevens
This is a well written, well told story with original storylines and interesting characters. E.M. Hamill created an imaginative and fascinating world where mythological gods, angels, demons, Fae and other supernatural creatures living on earth amongst the humans. Callie was always interested in mythology, studied the classics, when she is threatened by what appears to be a mythological creature she goes on the run, she finds safety at a place off the beat and path, a pub called Nectar and Ambrosia. Which turns out to be in another dimension on Earth and a place where she is safe. I loved the premise of this place, those who visit it as well as the dynamics of the threshold and the world. Also loved the premise behind the gods and visiting aliens, imaginative way to incorporated SciFi into Religion, makes you wonder too. I enjoyed how everything played out, great plotting, never a dull moment with plenty of drama, action, twists and some heartfelt moments. It is the type of book you can not put down, it is enjoyable and entertaining. E.M. Hamill thank you for this great story.
I listened to the Audible edition, Keira Stevens is a wonderfully talented narrator and a versatile voice performer. She brings these characters to life, gives each their own voice and personality, as well has heart and attitude. She does an amazing job with different accents, she switches character roles effortlessly without missing a beat. She is an entertaining storyteller and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for another great listen🎧
November 23, 2018
For me, this book started out at around 4 stars, and slowly made its way up to 5 by the end. I guess that makes it 4.5 overall?
Callie is our heroine, and we meet her as she's trying to escape being torn apart by a flying monster that only she can see. She manages to find her way to sanctuary, and discovers that the gods of the old world are more than myth, as most of them come to the bar to hang out. Although the focus is primarily on Greek gods (Zeus, Hera, Hermes, etc), the fairy world also plays a large role (Puck, Oberon, Titania), as well as angels from Christianity (Gabriel, Michael, etc. "God" is also around, although he doesn't make an appearance). There are representatives from other mythological traditions, and I'd be surprised if more didn't show up in the next book.
Callie is more than she seems, and she learns about her own powers and what they mean for her. She finds herself caught in the middle of a struggle between the Gods that only she can prevent, and there is plenty of action and surprises in store. It's a lot like "American Gods" in a way, but more accessible, and with more of a fantasy twist.
I really enjoyed it, and would recommend it to anyone who is interested in stories about interacting with mythological beings. If you've studied any Classics (or even read Percy Jackson), you'll love this book. I'm definitely excited for the next installment.
Callie is our heroine, and we meet her as she's trying to escape being torn apart by a flying monster that only she can see. She manages to find her way to sanctuary, and discovers that the gods of the old world are more than myth, as most of them come to the bar to hang out. Although the focus is primarily on Greek gods (Zeus, Hera, Hermes, etc), the fairy world also plays a large role (Puck, Oberon, Titania), as well as angels from Christianity (Gabriel, Michael, etc. "God" is also around, although he doesn't make an appearance). There are representatives from other mythological traditions, and I'd be surprised if more didn't show up in the next book.
Callie is more than she seems, and she learns about her own powers and what they mean for her. She finds herself caught in the middle of a struggle between the Gods that only she can prevent, and there is plenty of action and surprises in store. It's a lot like "American Gods" in a way, but more accessible, and with more of a fantasy twist.
I really enjoyed it, and would recommend it to anyone who is interested in stories about interacting with mythological beings. If you've studied any Classics (or even read Percy Jackson), you'll love this book. I'm definitely excited for the next installment.
May 14, 2020
Until a few weeks ago, Callie was a student studying Classical Studies and Anthropology, but she left behind her studies and her adoptive family to flee from a banshee that has hunted her across the country. Following visions that make her have seizures, Callie has stumbled her way to a bar in downtown Kansas City where she discovers that the patrons are not at all the usual midwestern flair. Settling into her new home and new job, Callie’s visions become more dire as she is caught up in a plot that could destroy the world.
This book was fantastic. It is laugh out loud funny in some places, heart-wrenchingly poignant in others. Author E. M. Hamill does a wonderful job of keeping the two in balance. The characters are engaging, the plot is compelling, but where this book really shines is in Hamill’s unique perspectives on mythology, both old and new. Whether gods, angels, or sidhe, her characters are lively, quirky, and relatable in their desires and motivations.
We whole-heartedly recommend this book to any lovers of urban fantasy, mythology, or just great stories in general. There is plenty in Nectar and Ambrosia to delight any reader. We can’t wait for more installments in this series.
This book was fantastic. It is laugh out loud funny in some places, heart-wrenchingly poignant in others. Author E. M. Hamill does a wonderful job of keeping the two in balance. The characters are engaging, the plot is compelling, but where this book really shines is in Hamill’s unique perspectives on mythology, both old and new. Whether gods, angels, or sidhe, her characters are lively, quirky, and relatable in their desires and motivations.
We whole-heartedly recommend this book to any lovers of urban fantasy, mythology, or just great stories in general. There is plenty in Nectar and Ambrosia to delight any reader. We can’t wait for more installments in this series.
May 22, 2019
Mine And My Girlfriend's Review. Written By Her.
My boyfriend and I listened to this together. I was originally intending to listen to it alone, but I listened to it for a bit without headphones and he loved what he was hearing. We started it over so we could hear it all together. Therefore, I'm giving him permission to have this review on his page. Especially since we are writing it together.
He feels that it was incredible that the only actual god in the book was Hera. The rest of the gods aren't actually gods. They are aliens. He felt that made the story very unique. I loved the take on the whole thing. It reminded me of two series that I have read before that I rather enjoyed.
The story was the perfect balance of serious and suspenseful and hilarious. There was romance in it, but it didn't overshadow the actual point of the story. That's really refreshing. It was a very clean book. I think that's something my boyfriend liked best of all!
Overall, we fully recommend. I'm not sure if I've listened to this narrator before, but either way, she was fantastic! I was very impressed with her. I believe my boyfriend was too.
My boyfriend and I listened to this together. I was originally intending to listen to it alone, but I listened to it for a bit without headphones and he loved what he was hearing. We started it over so we could hear it all together. Therefore, I'm giving him permission to have this review on his page. Especially since we are writing it together.
He feels that it was incredible that the only actual god in the book was Hera. The rest of the gods aren't actually gods. They are aliens. He felt that made the story very unique. I loved the take on the whole thing. It reminded me of two series that I have read before that I rather enjoyed.
The story was the perfect balance of serious and suspenseful and hilarious. There was romance in it, but it didn't overshadow the actual point of the story. That's really refreshing. It was a very clean book. I think that's something my boyfriend liked best of all!
Overall, we fully recommend. I'm not sure if I've listened to this narrator before, but either way, she was fantastic! I was very impressed with her. I believe my boyfriend was too.
May 22, 2019
My boyfriend and I listened to this together. I was originally intending to listen to it alone, but I listened to it for a bit without headphones and he loved what he was hearing. We started it over so we could hear it all together. Therefore, I'm giving him permission to have this review on his page. Especially since we are writing it together.
He feels that it was incredible that the only actual god in the book was Hera. The rest of the gods aren't actually gods. They are aliens. He felt that made the story very unique. I loved the take on the whole thing. It reminded me of two series that I have read before that I rather enjoyed.
The story was the perfect balance of serious and suspenseful and hilarious. There was romance in it, but it didn't overshadow the actual point of the story. That's really refreshing. It was a very clean book. I think that's something my boyfriend liked best of all!
Overall, we fully recommend. I'm not sure if I've listened to this narrator before, but either way, she was fantastic! I was very impressed with her. I believe my boyfriend was too.
He feels that it was incredible that the only actual god in the book was Hera. The rest of the gods aren't actually gods. They are aliens. He felt that made the story very unique. I loved the take on the whole thing. It reminded me of two series that I have read before that I rather enjoyed.
The story was the perfect balance of serious and suspenseful and hilarious. There was romance in it, but it didn't overshadow the actual point of the story. That's really refreshing. It was a very clean book. I think that's something my boyfriend liked best of all!
Overall, we fully recommend. I'm not sure if I've listened to this narrator before, but either way, she was fantastic! I was very impressed with her. I believe my boyfriend was too.
May 26, 2019
I listened to the audiobook version of this book.
Personally am a huge fan of stories like these that incorporate the Greek gods. The primary focus of this first book was clearly to introduce us to the characters and how they are related to each other and mostly build the world, followed by the love interest between Callie and Florian. As far as romance, this was a slow burn that I think (*hope*) will pay off in future books in the series. There are a lot of excellent things in this book that makes me super excited for more from this author. I really enjoyed the writing and description as well as the author's ability to just give us an intriguing story.
What an excellent performance paired with this book! I loved everything about this narration and feel like this narrator really brought Callie's personality out.
This author and narrator were both new to me, but they both just gained a new fan (myself) from this listen. I am super excited to see where they take this series next.
I received a review copy at my request and have voluntarily left this unbiased review.
Personally am a huge fan of stories like these that incorporate the Greek gods. The primary focus of this first book was clearly to introduce us to the characters and how they are related to each other and mostly build the world, followed by the love interest between Callie and Florian. As far as romance, this was a slow burn that I think (*hope*) will pay off in future books in the series. There are a lot of excellent things in this book that makes me super excited for more from this author. I really enjoyed the writing and description as well as the author's ability to just give us an intriguing story.
What an excellent performance paired with this book! I loved everything about this narration and feel like this narrator really brought Callie's personality out.
This author and narrator were both new to me, but they both just gained a new fan (myself) from this listen. I am super excited to see where they take this series next.
I received a review copy at my request and have voluntarily left this unbiased review.
October 10, 2018
I stumbled across Nectar and Ambrosia on Netgalley when I was listing book two of The Arete Series. The gist of the story: Cassie flees home after being chased by a mythological monster and stumbles across a bar, Nectar and Ambrosia, which is the hangout spot of the Greek gods. What’s not to like!?
The story was hilarious and the Greek gods, who are now posing as celebrities because, let’s face it, celebrities are the modern day gods, are wonderfully drawn with their own unique quirks but with ancient history layered in beautifully.
It becomes a weird mix of all sorts of pantheons: Hindu, Norse, Christian, etc. And there is even a Sci-fi slant to the story.
It managed to do all this and yet still keep me hooked on the developing relationship between the MC Cassie and Florian, the mysterious bartender of Nectar and Ambrosia. A wonderful read - highly recommend!
The story was hilarious and the Greek gods, who are now posing as celebrities because, let’s face it, celebrities are the modern day gods, are wonderfully drawn with their own unique quirks but with ancient history layered in beautifully.
It becomes a weird mix of all sorts of pantheons: Hindu, Norse, Christian, etc. And there is even a Sci-fi slant to the story.
It managed to do all this and yet still keep me hooked on the developing relationship between the MC Cassie and Florian, the mysterious bartender of Nectar and Ambrosia. A wonderful read - highly recommend!
November 21, 2018
Nectar and Ambrosia starts out pretty simply for urban fantasy. Callie, our protagonist, is fleeing home to protect her family from a monster that only she can hear or see. Pushed onward by her intuition, she finds a help wanted sign in the window of a building that looks abandoned.
"If you can read this, find the door."
When she stumbles through the door in terror, she realizes that she has found sanctuary, at least for the time being. The proprietor immediately gives her the job and a place to stay. There's more going on than she realizes though, and she will quickly see that it's quite another world inside.
Read more at Cats Luv Coffee
"If you can read this, find the door."
When she stumbles through the door in terror, she realizes that she has found sanctuary, at least for the time being. The proprietor immediately gives her the job and a place to stay. There's more going on than she realizes though, and she will quickly see that it's quite another world inside.
Read more at Cats Luv Coffee
May 23, 2019
This was my first E.M. Hamill's book. This is the first novel in the Amaranthine Inheritance Series. This Urban Fantasy Story is complex and captivating. The story is set in a paranormal Bar named Nectar and Ambrosia, where Florian is the bartender and the doorkeeper. Florian is an intriguing and handsome character. Callie is a strong and beautiful character. The story has it all: amazing world building, wonderful characters, and action packed. The storyline is filled with suspense, and mystery. I'm looking forward to listen to the next book in the Series, to know what happens next. This was a fun and captivating listen. Keira Stevens has a beautiful voice. She did a great reading of this story, and I enjoyed listening to this audiobook.
May 23, 2019
Audiobook version
I loved this book! It did a fantastic job of weaving mythology and legend in with a romantic mystery story. I was captivated and can't wait to read more! I found myself quickly becoming attached to the characters and enthralled with the tale.
The narration was great! Keira adds so much flavor to the characters and makes the listening experience so enjoyable. Loved every second!
Note: this book is mis-categorized- I would not categorize it is LGBT at all. There are brief mentions of characters that would qualify but it is by no means a theme in the book. This is a Fantasy, rom com, mystery really in my opinion.
🎧AudiobookObsession🎧
I loved this book! It did a fantastic job of weaving mythology and legend in with a romantic mystery story. I was captivated and can't wait to read more! I found myself quickly becoming attached to the characters and enthralled with the tale.
The narration was great! Keira adds so much flavor to the characters and makes the listening experience so enjoyable. Loved every second!
Note: this book is mis-categorized- I would not categorize it is LGBT at all. There are brief mentions of characters that would qualify but it is by no means a theme in the book. This is a Fantasy, rom com, mystery really in my opinion.
🎧AudiobookObsession🎧
July 8, 2018
I just finished reading this book and all I can say is AMAZING!
I have read all of Ms. Hamill's books and love them all but this one is definitely my favorite. I was actually disappointed when it ended.
By the time I had finished, the characters felt like old friends (well, most of them. A few felt like old enemies).
It made me laugh (repeatedly), cry (probably not supposed to admit that part) and actually think. I am eagerly looking forward to the her next book and hoping that a sequel is not far behind!
I have read all of Ms. Hamill's books and love them all but this one is definitely my favorite. I was actually disappointed when it ended.
By the time I had finished, the characters felt like old friends (well, most of them. A few felt like old enemies).
It made me laugh (repeatedly), cry (probably not supposed to admit that part) and actually think. I am eagerly looking forward to the her next book and hoping that a sequel is not far behind!
May 23, 2019
Nectar and Ambrosia By E.M. Hamill is an Urban Fantasy Novel that I listened to on audio narrated by Keira Stevens. This is the first book of E.M. that I have read and it definitely won’t be my last. This book is outside my usual genre but I really enjoyed it. Keira did an amazing job narrating. I enjoyed the multiple voices she used for the different characters. I look forward to hearing future work by her. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who likes urban fantasy.
#AudiobookObessionReviwer #AudioBookObsession
#AudiobookObessionReviwer #AudioBookObsession
December 28, 2019
Audiobook Review
Choices and Decisions
This story was a sort of mindblown with it's different backgrounds and intertwined myths.
This book has greek gods, fairies and Angels. I was surprised by some twists towards the end, while it has an open ending as to set up for the next book it wasn't quite a cliff hanger so it's safe to listen with out worry of not having book 2.
While I enjoyed this book personally I felt I needed another narrator just because the array of characters we are welcomed to meet.
audiobook Obsessions 🎧
Choices and Decisions
This story was a sort of mindblown with it's different backgrounds and intertwined myths.
This book has greek gods, fairies and Angels. I was surprised by some twists towards the end, while it has an open ending as to set up for the next book it wasn't quite a cliff hanger so it's safe to listen with out worry of not having book 2.
While I enjoyed this book personally I felt I needed another narrator just because the array of characters we are welcomed to meet.
audiobook Obsessions 🎧
February 13, 2020
for the audio -
All the gods and fae! I flipping loved Nectar and Ambrosia. Callie fell into all of the classics and myths that you could think of and modernized day twists as well. I can't even describe some of my favorites without spoiling anything. There were so many delightful characters. Kiera Stevens was wonderful voicing them all. When it ended I was slightly sad that is was at an end. I wanted more. Hopefully E.M. Hamill is on the way to doing more with this world. There are so many ways it could go with any of the characters.
All the gods and fae! I flipping loved Nectar and Ambrosia. Callie fell into all of the classics and myths that you could think of and modernized day twists as well. I can't even describe some of my favorites without spoiling anything. There were so many delightful characters. Kiera Stevens was wonderful voicing them all. When it ended I was slightly sad that is was at an end. I wanted more. Hopefully E.M. Hamill is on the way to doing more with this world. There are so many ways it could go with any of the characters.
October 9, 2025
I was walking into this book with no expectations, just reading it as part of a reading challenge. But I was pleasantly surprised by this book. You're kind of thrown into the plot which jarred me a bit, but once characters were introduced and some more context, I got into the book more. The one thing that I loved the most was the reimagining of all the pantheons and mashed them all together while still keeping their individual personalities that we love.
This book definitely kept unfolding and kept me guessing to the end.
4/5
This book definitely kept unfolding and kept me guessing to the end.
4/5
May 24, 2019
AUDIOBOOK REVIEW
This was a nice an entartatin book, it's really low on romance, it focuses more on Cali's visions and trying to figure out what all that is about. I found it interesting and as the story unfolds I kept trying to unravel what was going to happen and making conclusions of my own.
The narrattion was really good Keira Stevens was able to give each character a distinguish voice, her emotions, tone and cadence were also pretty great according to each situation.
This was a nice an entartatin book, it's really low on romance, it focuses more on Cali's visions and trying to figure out what all that is about. I found it interesting and as the story unfolds I kept trying to unravel what was going to happen and making conclusions of my own.
The narrattion was really good Keira Stevens was able to give each character a distinguish voice, her emotions, tone and cadence were also pretty great according to each situation.
September 13, 2019
I listed to this book on audible and it was the best story I've heard or read in a long time. I thought it was really creative with an interesting story. It's been a long time since I've studied mythology in school, but the mythology mixed into a contemporary story and combined with other gods and fairies was a fun twist.
Nectar and Ambrosia was my first exposure to E. M. Hamill, but I would be interested in listening to or reading more.
#AudiobookObsession
Nectar and Ambrosia was my first exposure to E. M. Hamill, but I would be interested in listening to or reading more.
#AudiobookObsession
July 22, 2022
I was hooked from the very first, action-packed scene. E.M. Hamill creates a vivid world of gods and monsters that is both comfortingly familiar and thrillingly original. Her characters are relatable, charming, and utterly unforgettable. Add in Keira Stevens’ captivating narration and this already smart, witty, and heartfelt story soars to celestial heights. It’s the kind of urban fantasy nectar I can’t just sip. I have to slam it back and ask for another.
May 22, 2019
A story with so many twists your head will spin, but will keep you interested in what may happen next. I really liked this book and can see books in the future will be just as good if not better. I hope that there will be more to this story soon.
Narration was great! The switches in people and personalities was done flawlessly.
Narration was great! The switches in people and personalities was done flawlessly.
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