Tomb of Gods

by Brian Moreland

Deep inside the tomb exists a hidden world of wonder and terror... In 1935, British archaeologists vanished inside an Egyptian cave. A year later, one man returned covered in mysterious scars. Egyptologist Imogen Riley desperately wants to know what happened to the ill-fated expedition led by her grandfather. On a quest for answers, she joins a team of archaeologists and soldiers in Egypt. Inside a mountain tomb, they've found a technologically advanced relic and a maze of tunnels. Dr. Nathan Trummel believes this tomb leads to the most guarded secrets of the pharaohs. When the explorers venture deep into the caves, they discover a hidden world of wonder and terror.

Genres: Horror, Adventure, Fiction, Mystery, Historical Fiction, Fantasy, Historical

288 pages, Paperback

First published May 21, 2020

About the author

Brian Moreland writes dark suspense, thrillers, and horror. He's an avid reader and big fan of movies and series. A native Texan, Brian loves to cook, go hiking in nature, and travel to interesting places around the world. He is enjoying life with family in rural Texas and writing new thrilling fiction. His books include:

THE DEVIL'S WOODS
TOMB OF GODS
THEY STALK THE NIGHT
SAVAGE ISLAND
SHADOWS IN THE MIST

BLOOD SACRIFICES: THREE HORROR NOVELLAS:
THE WITCHING HOUSE
DARKNESS RISING
THE SEEKERS

Friend Brian on Goodreads
Follow on Twitter/X @BrianMoreland

Reviews

[LIsa Noell "Rocking the chutzpah!" · Rating 5 out of 5]

My thanks to Flame Tree Press, Brian Moreland and Netgalley. I've had a soft spot for Moreland for years! I was first introduced to him by Samhain Publishing. Rest their lovely souls! I'm a fan! I did however come to this book with some hesitation. Honestly? I'm complete freaked out by Egyptian stuff! Not Egyptians, just the whole digging up shit! I just believe the dead should stay buried. "This is why I wish to be cremated." The thought of me ending up as a display in a museum freaks me out! Also, their deities sort of resonate with me. Many God's over one? Yes. I worship nature. Not literally, but sure.😍 So, yes! This story messed me up. I read it a few weeks ago, and I'm still thinking about it! Does this mean that Lisa is an odd duck and this review should be ignored? Yes, and no. Duh! If course I'm odd, but this story was effing good! Really good. As always, I'm not saying anything about the storyline. Just read the synopsis and go headlong into it. Excellent story, Mr. Moreland. Bravo!

[Luvtoread (Trying to catch up) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Egyptology Horror At It's Best! In the 1930's an archaeology team and a "National Geographic" photographer are on an expedition to find some undiscovered tombs and their secrets while following up on several failed expeditions where none of the explorers returned except for one who was found wandering around in the desert a year after his team was declared missing and he was completely out of his mind with these strange carvings on his skin from head to toe so he had to be immediately institutionalized. Where was he for the past year and what had he seen and heard that caused him to lose his mind. His granddaughter Imogen who is also an archaeologist will be on this new exploration hoping to unveil some of the mysteries of what happened to her grandfather and his missing team. The new expedition started with around 50 people including laborers who are needed to dig and some military to help protect the team physically and also the treasures they hope to discover to bring back to the museum. What could go wrong with a team so well prepared and looking for scientific answers to their queries, never expecting that when they don't heed the ancient warnings written on the walls of the caves deep within the mountain and that they will encounter unknown horrors that they may not survive mentally or physically and each person will realize that you cannot even trust the people that you have known and trusted for years.

Wonderful storytelling by Brian Moreland. I truly got lost within the pages of this well searched and beautifully scripted book. The word building just had me feeling as if I was on this trip with the team experiencing everything they were seeing and hearing. The story starts off slowly but intriguing and it gives you a realistic take on the cast of characters and you will care about some and dislike many but you are excited to find out what happens to all the players in this great ancient mystery horror. This book was so intriguing and I was very impressed with the Egyptian history and the mythology that was so deliciously versed in this book. This book should appeal to any horror reader and also to anyone who enjoys dark Egyptian mysteries.

I want to thank the author Brian Moreland and the publisher "Flame Tree Press" who continues to put out new and wonderful horror stories and also Netgalley for the opportunity to read this fantastic book and any thoughts and opinions expressed are unbiased and mine alone!

I highly recommend this thrilling book and have given a rating of 5 "Exciting, Mythological" 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Stars!!

[Zain · Rating 3 out of 5]

Lots of Yawning.

A lot of people are searching a pyramid for the level of the gods. I believe that there are nine people in the beginning. During the ending, will they find what they are looking for?

They go through a lot of trouble and danger to get there.

This book is a good book at times, but mainly it is a snooze fest. There are times when the action is very fast and horrifying, but other times it is slow going and just a lot of the author telling us stuff.

So, I like the book, sometimes. Other times, I don’t.

Three stars. ⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Luvtoread (Trying to catch up) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Egyptology Horror At It's Best!

In the 1930's an archaeology team and a "National Geographic" photographer are on an expedition to find some undiscovered tombs and their secrets while following up on several failed expeditions where none of the explorers returned except for one who was found wandering around in the desert a year after his team was declared missing and he was completely out of his mind with these strange carvings on his skin from head to toe so he had to be immediately institutionalized. Where was he for the past year and what had he seen and heard that caused him to lose his mind. His granddaughter Imogen who is also an archaeologist will be on this new exploration hoping to unveil some of the mysteries of what happened to her grandfather and his missing team. The new expedition started with around 50 people including laborers who are needed to dig and some military to help protect the team physically and also the treasures they hope to discover and bring back to the museum. What could go wrong with a team so well prepared and looking for scientific answers to their queries, never expecting that when they don't heed the ancient warnings written on the walls of the caves deep within the mountain that they will encounter unknown horrors that they may not survive mentally or physically and each person will realize that you cannot even trust the people that you have known and trusted for years.

Wonderful storytelling by Brian Moreland. I truly got lost within the pages of this well researched and beautifully scripted book. The word building just had me feeling as if I was on this trip with the team experiencing everything they were seeing and hearing. The story starts off slowly but intriguing and it gives you a realistic take on the cast of characters and you will care about some and dislike many but you are excited to find out what happens to all the players in this great ancient mystery horror. This book was so intriguing and I was very impressed with the Egyptian history and the mythology that was so deliciously versed in this book. This book should appeal to any horror reader and also to anyone who enjoys dark Egyptian mysteries.

I want to thank the author Brian Moreland and the publisher "Flame Tree Press" who continues to out out new and wonderful horror stories and also Netgalley for the opportunity to read this fantastic book and any thoughts and opinions expressed are unbiased and mine alone!

I highly recommend this thrilling book and have given a rating of 5 "Exciting, Mythological" 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Stars! !

[Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Spooky Suspense!

Small backstory:

Imogen Riley is on a quest to learn what happened to her grandfather years ago on an Egyptian archaeological dig and what he discovered if anything on the dig but to do that Imogen will need to retrace her grandfather's footsteps into an unknown world of Egyptian intrigue to learn the truth!

That is about all I can hand out on with a small backstory without giving away spoilers so if you want to know more then go read this book!

Thoughts:

This book was one spooky ride into the historical Egyptian realm as the author, Brian Moreland takes the reader deep into a supernatural world of terror! This book kept me flipping pages and staying up to the early morning hours reading as it was hard to put it down with so much happening within its pages!

There were lots of spooky moments and quite a bit of dread feelings along with some claustrophobia moments as well. There were a few characters within the story but they were easy to keep track of throughout the book. I have come to love books by Brian Moreland as his stories are told in descriptive detail to the point that you feel that you have been transported into his world. The visuals of the story just pop right out of the pages and keep you suspended within the story. Another great book by this author added to my favorites shelf. Giving this book five "Tomb Terror" stars!

[Kimberly · Rating 4 out of 5]

TOMB OF GODS is the latest novel from author Brian Moreland. The events taking place are set in 1936, an archaeological expedition to the rumored tomb of Egyptian High Priest Nebenteru. The year prior, Dr. Harlan Riley was the sole surviver of his expedition, and came back . . . altered . . . insisting his team found what they were searching for.

"I have walked in the footsteps of the Pharaohs . . ."

Now, his accomplished niece, Imogen, will join Dr. Nathan Trummel on a second expedition for the British museum, hoping to find what her Uncle discovered.

A blending of Egyptian Mythology, horror, mystery, and historical fiction, this book had some fantastic elements.

"There's always a way out . . . You just have to trust your instincts."

I loved the build-up of the complex main characters. Even once we get to the tomb, Moreland continues to build them up, increasing our "attachment" and understanding of their motivations.

"There is a pattern of men disappearing in the caves . . . "

The atmosphere drew me in immediately, and some of the scenes were firmly imprinted in my mind afterwards. The "logic" used here coincided very well within the narrative as a whole, and each revelation was believable in context as a result.

". . . Maybe in this instance it would be better not to know."

Overall, a novel that included some of my favorite elements with a fantastic setting. Moreland was able to take an Egyptian expedition and make it into something unique for readers. The only slight issue I had was that the pacing felt a bit uneven--slow, in places, and nonstop in others. This was a thoroughly fascinating novel that gave a new viewpoint to Egyptian horror!

". . . Remarkable if art made from broken skeletons was your cup of tea . . . "

Highly recommended.

[Graeme Rodaughan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Expedition Exposed! Secret Agenda Scarpers Cave Crusaders! "Well, there I was, on the verge of the greatest discovery of archaeology when my team abandoned me! The ingrates, and after all I'd done for them! You just can't get good minions willing to make a sacrifice for their betters these days!" - Dr. Nathan Trummel - The Indiana Jones Enquirer

After a slow-burn start this story really takes flight for the heavens dives into the depths of claustrophobic terror. 😱😱😱 and then doesn't let you go until the end.

This is very impressive story telling with a deft touch on the emotional development of the characters.

Well worth reading.

Recommended, 5 'Don't Tempt The Gods' stars.

Read this in October 2024 with the fine folk over at Nightmares and Dreamscapes.

[Schizanthus Nerd · Rating 5 out of 5]

“We are standing at the threshold of one of life’s great mysteries”

Dr Harlan Riley hadn’t been the same since he was found “wandering the desert southeast of Cairo”. Scars covered his body and he alternated between speaking an unknown language and uttering cryptic warnings. It is five months months after his death, in March 1937, when a team of British archaeologists find Nebenteru’s tomb, whose secrets Harlan took to the grave.

“I have witnessed miracles. Nightmares. Forgotten realms.”

Leading the team is Dr Nathan Trummel. His own personal team is made up of assistant, Piper, blind psychic, Dyfan, and bodyguard, Aiden Gosswick. They are joined by mercenaries, Sergeant Dan Vickers and Corporal Teddy Quig, and a guard, Corporal Rex Sykes.

An Egyptian guide, Bakari Neseem, an American photographer on assignment for National Geographic, Caleb Beckett, and a number of labourers, archaeologists and students round out the team. With this many volunteers signing up to enter the final resting place for an unknown number of explorers, it’s fairly certain the pharaoh’s tomb is likely to become many of theirs.

Late to the party is Imogen, an expert in Egyptian mythology and Harlan’s granddaughter. Raised by Harlan and his sidekick on expeditions when she was a child, she’s likely to be quite useful in navigating the potential pitfalls ahead.

“Damned are we who enter the abyss.”

Once the bloodbath got under way the story went in a direction I hadn’t expected. The world building was extensive and it often felt like I was walking alongside the team, or perhaps somewhere closer to the middle of the group so whatever was coming next would get them first.

Peoples’ true natures rose to the surface and tensions were high as the explorers faced their demons, and I’m sure the characters’ blood pressures increased each time they noticed sentences that commenced with:

Twelve explorers

All nine explorers

The eight explorers

I couldn’t help seeing parallels between Imogen searching her grandfather’s diary for clues and Indiana Jones using Henry’s diary to find the Holy Grail.

I grew up sharing my Nan’s love of Egyptology and know she would have loved this book. The way the mythology was injected into the storyline made me appreciate how much time the author must have spent researching it and had me Googling some unfamiliar names to figure out if they originated from history or the author’s imagination. When the lines between reality and fiction get blurry I know an author has well and truly sucked me in.

I had two main niggles:
* The way the explorers made their way through the various gates was repetitive at times.
* I felt the epilogue was unnecessary and its contents frustrated me. The chapter prior to this provided a natural end to the story for me and I wish it had concluded there.

“Something’s coming.”

Content warnings include death by suicide, murder, self harm, suicidal ideation, torture and war crimes.

Thank you so much to NetGalley and Flame Tree Press for the opportunity to read this book. I’m rounding up from 4.5 stars.

Blog - https://schizanthusnerd.com

[LIsa Noell "Rocking the chutzpah!" · Rating 5 out of 5]

My thanks to Flame Tree Press, Brian Moreland and Netgalley. I've had a soft spot for Moreland for years! I was first introduced to him by Samhain Publishing. Rest their lovely souls! I'm a fan! I did however come to this book with some hesitation. Honestly? I'm complete freaked out by Egyptian stuff! Not Egyptians, just the whole digging up shit! I just believe the dead should stay buried. "This is why I wish to be cremated." The thought of me ending up as a display in a museum freaks me out! Also, their deities sort of resonate with me. Many God's over one? Yes. I worship nature. Not literally, but sure.😍 So, yes! This story messed me up. I read it a few weeks ago, and I'm still thinking about it! Does this mean that Lisa is an odd duck and this review should be ignored? Yes, and no. Duh! If course I'm odd, but this story was effing good! Really good. As always, I'm not saying anything about the storyline. Just read the synopsis and go headlong into it. Excellent story, Mr. Moreland. Fucking Bravo!

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

In the 1930s, a group of British archaeologists enter a strange cave in Egypt....and never come out again. A year later, one man from the ill-fated expedition is found, his body covered in strange scars. His granddaughter wants to know what happened in that cave....so she ventures to Egypt joining a group going to explore that same cave. What they find is.....terrifying.

I love books like this! Failed expedition....bad stuff happens....second group is curious and goes to the same place...bad stuff happens. I love being scared...but feeling superior at the same time. I read a bit....get creeped out...but then start talking to the characters in my mind. "Look....use common sense...the key, smart decision here is DO NOT go in that cave!'' Then when the S hits the fan, I can feel smug and say "See??? I told you so!'' All while still being scared by all the bad things going down and enjoying the book. I might love going into cursed, dark, evil places through reading....I'm curled up safe and sound on my couch with a book (and my chihuahua...no monsters getting past my 'huahua!). I would NEVER EVER be silly to go into any deep, dark evil anything....no portals, no hell gates, no evil caves, no cursed places....nope, nope nope. I think that's why I love books like this....I can go there, but not go there. :)

This is the first book by Brian Moreland that I've read. And I will definitely be back for more! He has several other horror novels that I'm sure I will love just as much as this one!

**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from Flame Tree Press. All opinions expressed are entirely my own. **

[Latasha · Rating 3 out of 5]

Tomb of Gods is the third book I've read by Brian Mooreland. When i saw it was on NetGalley, I jumped on the opportunity to read it early. It starts out slow, building and introducing the characters. We meet Dr. Harlen Riley, archaeologist. He is leading a team in search of the tomb of Nebenteru. Something goes terribly wrong and the team vanishes. Dr. Hareln reappears a year later. He has strange markings covering his body and has went completely mad. He spends the rest of his days in an insane asylum, rambling nonsense.
One year later Harlen's granddaughter, Imogen joins with a team hoping to uncover what Hareln's team found. The team will travel through Hell and back to learn the mysteries of the tomb of Nebenteru.
The story was good but a little slow. The characters were ok, i didn't love any of them and disliked the ones i was supposed to. I liked the Egyptian setting for the book and the realms the team travels through. It was great reading some of the Egyptian mythology worked into the story. I liked that. This wouldn't be my favorite from Brian Mooreland but it was by no means bad. I plan on reading more of his works in the near future and i'm very thankful for the opportunity to read this early.

[Lauren Stoolfire · Rating 4 out of 5]

received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Tomb of Gods is my first novel by Brian Moreland, but I guarantee that it will not be my last. I was totally sold on the Egyptian mythology, mummies, archaeologists, and Egyptologist in a pre-WWII setting. Everything else was just the icing on the cake. I can officially say that I greatly appreciated Moreland's brand of horror. He definitely gets the job done of scaring the heck out of his readers with his incredibly atmospheric and claustrophobic writing style. I also enjoyed getting to know his characters, especially Imogen, an Egyptologist, who undergoes quite a journey over the course of her story. If you're a fan of The Mummy (1999) and The Mummy Returns (2001) which are a couple of my all time favorites, I have a feeling you'll get a kick out of this action-packed horror novel. I'm looking forward to trying more from Brian Moreland in the future after my first outing here.

[Sarah B · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow...what a book!! I actually found myself thinking about this one this morning while I was out on my walk and I never find myself doing this! I was looking up at the brilliant blue sky and found myself thankful that I could actually SEE the blue sky plus the colorful autumn leaves and feel the crisp cold air on my face - as the unfortunate characters in this book sure couldn't. Once they went down into that tomb they became trapped in a horrid world of nightmares; an unending dungeon crawl. And the only thing you see is dark stone tunnels or some pitch black pit or something charging at you with sharp talons to tear you open! Yes, this is a bloody book but it's very well planned.

The story had started out a tad slow but once the team got underground things picked up fast. Then it was one adventure after another with many different types of nasty things. It's very random so it's impossible to guess what will happen next. Still there are some old favorites in here when it comes to creatures. Of course I am not saying what they are. And its not just creatures but deadly traps and wicked puzzles too.

But the story has a heart. The characters have to face their deepest fears and the bad things they have done in the past. Things they feel guilt over. It's not an easy thing to do. And you might find out the person you are traveling with may not be who you think they are at all. The author did a great job coming up with backgrounds for the main characters who go on the actual dungeon crawl and this plays into the plot nicely...

The descriptions in here are very vivid. I could almost see or imagine some of the stuff even though I don't have a mind's eye (I cannot visualize at all). Very few books give me this feeling and this is one of them.

If I could rate this 6 stars I would! And once the adventure started it stayed exciting throughout the end too. Too many books fall flat near the end but this one didn't. So very pleased! This is also the first book I have read by this author.

Oh...and you probably have heard all of the popular internet rumors that go around about Ancient Egypt. Well the author makes good use of those in here! And the ending - what they eventually find - is something straight out of an Indiana Jones movie! Totally unexpected but very cool (yet scary). The feeling of menace was real. It makes you think (and agree with the main character Imogen) "You really should not be touching that stuff!"

I will definitely try to read more book by Moreland and buy my own copy of this one as the one I read is a library book.

[Hunter Shea · Rating 5 out of 5]

A breathless adventure with non-stop action, thrills and horrific chills! One of my favorite books of the year.

[Steve Stred · Rating 5 out of 5]

** Edited as review is now live on Kendall Reviews! **

Every week, one of the nicest people out there, Char from Char’s Horror Review posts/tweets what she’s reading and asks what are others reading. I actually look forward to these, because I love seeing what she’s cruising through and typically there is some back and forth with each person about how they’re enjoying their books.

When I commented that I was reading ‘Tomb of Gods‘ by Moreland, Tony Jones from GNOH replied that he’d loved this one and that ‘the deeper they go, the darker it gets.’

Just to be clear – if there was a night club for book reviewers, Tony and Char would be laughing and sipping an adult beverage in the club, while I’d be outside, hoping to be let in! It’s these interactions that always make me smile.

Just how accurate was Tony’s comment? 100%

What I liked: ‘Tomb of Gods‘ is actually my first Moreland read, but will not be my last. I have a bunch of his stuff on my Kindle already and feel a bit ashamed now that I’ve put off his works for so long. ‘Tomb…’ is a stunning action-adventure book in the same category as The Mummy and Indiana Jones. We get some initial back story first thing, but once we get to the archaeological dig site where things really dance. The story is set in 1936 and this absolutely played to the plot’s advantage. Eliminating technology and having the group have to survive from wit and strength was a top-notch decision.

The main character, Imogen, is also one of the best female leads I’ve read in some time. Smart, strong and not willing to take any grief, she definitely made for a protagonist I rooted for.

What I didn’t like: Minor things really. Some of the characters being killed off were very predictable, as though they were in Star Trek wearing a different color uniform. Not that this was bad, as the reader, we of course, want people to die horrifically, but at times I wished the section had been devoted to the others. The only other thing that I wasn’t overly fond of was the ridiculous levels of jealousy one character continued to express.

Why you should buy it: I couldn’t stop reading this book. From page one to the very end, the story flew from the pages at 200 mph. Moreland created a very familiar, yet completely unique Egyptian adventure. Don’t let this one pass you by, this is a must-read and one of the best books I’ve read in the last few years

[Aiden Merchant · Rating 5 out of 5]

*4.5 out of 5*

When I first heard about Tomb of Gods, I thought it would like Indiana Jones or The Mummy. While part of this book does hold such influence, it also takes you places never expected. In fact, the final quarter of this novel will turn your world upside down and dangle you from your feet. Things get surprisingly wild and horrific at this point, taking Tomb of Gods down a dark and winding road that is fantastically imaginative and destructive.

At times, you may wonder why certain background info is being provided to you about a character; trust me, it will come into play later on. So, while some of these earlier scenes come off as padding, they are all brought full circle in the end. In fact, these dramas are quite captivating in the grand scheme of things, as you will find.

Tomb of Gods has adventure, suspense, mystery, gore, and drama to boot. The last hundred pages are mind-blowing, catching the reader off guard with ease. The intensity dials up quickly from there, so hold on!

Brian Moreland was new to me, but he won’t stay that way for much longer. Upon finishing this novel, I searched out several others online. Tomb of Gods was so surprising and good that I expect it to be in my Top Reads of 2020.

[Jon Recluse · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review pending

[Matthew McGhie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another solid read by Brian Moreland. I’ve enjoyed his work since the Samhain days and I’m very glad he’s with Flame Tree Press now.

I can tell a lot of research into Egyptian Mythology went into the creation of this book. History buffs will enjoy this book if they can handle the gore that comes along with it. Horror fans will adore it, especially if they like a historical element.

Tightly woven prose and defined characters make this a great Spring read.

[Jocelyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review

Most kids go through an Ancient Egypt phase, but this archaeologist never actually grew out of hers. So reading a book that explores the “history” behind one of the most well-known empires was right up my alley. Even though this was a work of fiction, the author clearly did his research. Quite of a bit of what he wrote was at least loosely based on fact, right down to the descriptions of what the early days of archaeology in Egypt were like. I might be at a bit of an advantage because I’ve spent time in the Valley of the Kings, but anyone reading this book should be able to feel vividly transported inside the awe-inspiring tomb that was at the center of this story. I know I certainly did.

As this group traveled further into the cave, it became apparent that there was much more at play within its depths. They encounter technology that still doesn’t exist today, so how could the Egyptians have had it thousands of years ago?



Often while I was reading this captivating tale I was reminded of one of my favorite books, Rendezvous with Rama by Arthur C. Clarke. Much like the astronauts who carved their way into Rama, the characters in this book travel through an alien and unknown structure that defies logic and reveals more questions than it does answers. The sense of trepidation and curiosity in the face of sheer wonder and horror was similar to how I felt when I read Rama.

Despite there being sequels that reveal the mysteries behind Rama, I haven’t read them because sometimes ambiguity evokes a far better landscape in the imagination than a detailed explanation does. Similarly, Tomb of Gods leaves itself open for sequels that could go in several directions to explain the unknowns. I am rooting for this to become a series, but if that happens I hope the author continues in the vein of not letting everything be fully revealed. It’s a plot device that is difficult to achieve without frustrating a reader but Moreland has more than proved he’s talented enough to do it.

Final Thoughts

Even though I’m a major sci-fi nerd, I’m not one to think aliens or divine beings had anything to do with the development of the ancient world. Trust me, no one wants this to be the case more than me, but a little bit of research generally disproves any of those theories. That doesn’t mean, however, I don’t believe some of ancient mythology is based on fact- however relatively.

This was one of the developments I enjoyed most about the story. As an archaeologist, you learn that much of what is passed through the oral tradition is based on actual events. It’s essentially a fascinating game of “Telephone” that gets distorted and embellished throughout the ages.

That is one of the many reasons I highly recommend this book. Also, its blend of genres makes it appealing for just about every reader. Combining elements of fantasy, horror, and mythology, Tomb of Gods has something for everyone. The sense of wonder this book inspires will most certainly leave you as impressed as I was.

Read my full review on my blog!

Thanks to Anne Cater and Flame Tree Press for inviting me to be a part of this blog tour!

[Bandit · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ancient Egypt once again proved too irresistible of a lure. Then again that’s exactly what dragged the book’s protagonists into the nightmarish mess they ended up in. Treasure hunting on a grand scale and all that. When a respectable Egyptologist disappears for a year upon finding a secret tomb and later found mad and raving, his skin completely covered in strange symbols…well, that certainly attracts enough attention to merit a second mission. This time, presumably more prepared, the man’s niece, an Egyptologist in her own right, joins a former flame and his team to uncover exactly what secrets the ancient tomb might be hiding. The the terrifying truth about the underworld they discover proves to be as fascinating as it is deadly. A purgatory of sorts, it brings back the worst most traumatic experiences for everyone on the team, judging past choices and the subsequent guilt in an often lethal manner. Weighting souls opposed a feather can be a dangerous business, but it mgt be the only way to get through. So there’s plenty of adventure, oodles of terrors and some (really cheesily done) romance even. The underworld is a genuinely horrific creation and should delight most genre fans. The descriptions are first rate against the creepily claustrophobic settings. The book takes place during the golden age of discovery, before the devastation of WWII. And certainly long before most legal rights of origins were set up, so the era of discovery and pillaging, the time of tomb raiders. It’s just that this time the tomb they find will go to great lengths to protect its treasures. In fact, for a lot of the story, it’s essentially a survival tale and the odds aren’t great for anyone who trespasses the secret realms of the pharaohs. For me, the Egypt angle completely sold it, and with some ancient aliens thrown in for good measure…yes, please. In movie comparisons, this isn’t as much fun as the original Tomb Raiders or the Mummy ones from 1999 and 2001, but then again not much can live up to fighting Mummies with young Rachel Weisz. And at any rate comparing books to movies isn’t entirely fair. Suffice it to say, though, that this book was a lot of fun in its own right. Also, it might very well be the best book I’ve read by the author thus far. The writing was much more impressive overall, the character development and descriptions were very well done. And it had a good share of thrills too, a genuinely exciting ride. The middle somewhat slower than the rest, but quite dynamic on both ends. Plus, you know, Ancient Egypt, you just can’t go wrong. Well, obviously, you can, the book’s characters in fact do just that, but from a reader’s perspective it’s just a purely entertaining mythical mystical adventure. Recommended. Thanks Netgalley.

[Ayden Perry · Rating 5 out of 5]

“They who enter this sacred tomb shall be visited by wings of death. - Brian Moreland” .
.
Imogen’s grandfather went on an exploring expositions of an ancient Egyptian tomb with a team of archeologist. He was the only one to return. Imogen’s grandfather survived but not without trauma. He has markings all over his body and is talking to the walls. Imogen is desperate to return to the Egyptian tombs, being an archeologist herself, to finish out his work and get some answers. She joins a second team of archeologist and this tomb may hold the most guarded secrets of the pharaohs. What will they find when venture further into the deep tunnels and passageways? Maybe things are best left alone. .
.
This story starts off grabbing your attention and it keeps that momentum. I devoured every page. I wanted to know the secrets of the tunnels. There are secrets, camp fire stories, a card reader, a love triangle, people screaming and disappearing... i mean this story has it all! My next mission is to find more books by Brain Moreland!!!

[Icy_Space_Cobwebs · Rating 4 out of 5]

TOMB OF GODS is a very complex horror/fantasy which delves deeply into mythology (not just Egyptian, but also Sumerian, Akkadian, Mesopotamian, Celtic) as well as into philosophy, psychology, and metaphysics. Certainly there's never a dull moment. Archaeology in Egypt is the surface focus, but the story reaches far beyond and much deeper than that.

[Marlene · Rating 5 out of 5]

Originally published at Reading Reality

I picked this one for the cover. I don’t read a lot of horror, but not only did this one have a strong historical bent, but the cover looked like something out of the classic Doctor Who episode Pyramids of Mars. But the way that the story works reads a lot more like Journey to the Center of the Earth – with just a touch of the late 19th/early 20th century archaeology vibe of Amelia Peabody Emerson. And possibly even a bit of Dr. Daniel Jackson’s (Stargate) oft-derided theories about the “true” origins of ancient civilizations.

I was absolutely astonished when that last bit turned out to be closest to the mark.

As you might guess from the above rambling paragraph, when I have to read something described as horror I kind of have to sidle up to it by convincing myself that it’s more horror-adjacent than actual horror. Which is how I ended up at Tomb of Gods. Which in spite of what I just said is DEFINITELY horror.

Surprisingly for a horror story set in a lost Egyptian tomb, there aren’t any mummies. Which doesn’t mean that there isn’t plenty of horror, because there certainly is. But the story isn’t really about the horror that they find, not in the usual way with ambulatory mummies and predatory cursed monsters. Not that there aren’t plenty of monsters.

Instead, this is a story about the horrors that they all bring with them. The horrors that reside deep inside their hearts, the terrible things that they’ve said and done, the ones that they feel the most guilty for. The actions and emotions that they never want to let see the light of day.

Or see the darkest of nights at the bottom of a never-ending tomb – on a journey that feels like it’s heading straight to the center of the earth – by way of the paths outlined in the Egyptian Book of the Dead.

Escape Rating A-: I liked this way more than I expected to. Mostly because it didn’t go any of the places I expected it to. Again with the no shambling mummies. I loved the atmosphere, not just the darkness of the tomb, but also the entire feel of mid-1930s archaeology, especially combined with all those “curse of the mummy’s tomb” vibe, even though, again, no tottering, groaning mummies.

The beginning of this one is all about the setup, and it’s both pleasantly – and unpleasantly – familiar. The grasping, greedy, overbearing archaeologist, the mercenary guards, the frightened native workers, the quest for a treasure that only said overbearing archaeologist believes in.

And into that mix we throw Imogen Riley, also an archaeologist. The granddaughter of the man who originally found said tomb. The former lover of the current, overbearing archaeologist.

While there have been plenty of strange and deadly phenomena already on this dig, it’s only once Imogen is on the scene that the story takes off. She’s the catalyst that kicks off the rest of the action, as her presence provokes her former lover to new depths of, well, basically ignoring all good advice, common sense and proper archaeological practice to rush towards the treasure.

The journey to which exposes the darkness inside each person’s heart as they run headlong towards an end that only he can see. And it’s not the ending we (and Imogen) have been led to expect. He was a prick from beginning to end, and I wanted him to seriously get his comeuppance. Whether he does or not is left to the reader to decide.

In the end, this one is more about the journey than the destination. We see each person’s guilts and fears. The journey is harrowing, and we are as harrowed as the characters we follow.

I’m left with a couple of niggling questions. One is the obvious, in that I am not sure that the villain’s fate was a punishment or a reward. And I think that’s the way it’s meant to end.

As much as I liked Imogen and identified with her as the protagonist, I couldn’t help but wonder whether it was truly necessary for the story for Dr. Overbearing – actually Nathan Trummel, to have been a former lover. That particular bit of setup felt like a nod to earlier stories of archaeological horror and adventure, where the pretty girl was the reward or side piece of the real hero. Which Trummel is so far from being that he’s not even in the same universe – even if he thinks he is.

I also enjoyed the surprisingly deep dive into Egyptian mythology that underpins the story. As I said at the top, I need to sidle up to horror, and all the history and mythology gave me an excellent door through which to do that sidling. While still creeping me thoroughly out. In a good way. This is not a book to read with the lights off, but it is absolutely a book to read!

[Ben Long · Rating 5 out of 5]

If I see a title that involves Egyptian mythology and tombs beneath pyramids then I'm automatically on board. So I guess the author hooked me in early just with that, but I'm pleased to say that not only did this set up pay off, but the book rises to an epic level I was not expecting and goes in insane directions that I never saw coming.

I truly am going to say very little about the plot here. I want you to be as surprised as I was with each new unfolding event. What I will say is that the book wastes no time in getting to the good stuff. Our characters get to the dig site and things start going sideways very quickly. And speaking of characters, I love the ones constructed here. Imogen is fantastic as our egyptologist heroine, and other characters I liked include Caleb (her photographer-turned-love interest) and Dyfan (the blind assistant with a special sixth sense). Even the characters you're supposed to hate - namely expedition leader Trummel and head of security Gosswick - were fully realized and well done. The author does a good job of blending in the character's backstories and motivations with the current horrors they are facing.

And believe you me, there is a lot of horror here. And a nice variety as well. Lots of tense moments, gruesome violence, and eerie happenings. To say this book is a mix of Indiana Jones and Tomb Raider is wildly underselling it, but I did enjoy the overall focus on exploration and puzzle-solving (as well as the numerous creatures and nightmares that make an appearance). I wish I could talk about the final act, but I can't. Just know that it blew my mind. Go read it and get back to me so we can talk.

I know a little about Egyptian mythology, but there's so much here that I'd never heard of. I spoke with the author and he mentioned doing about a year of research, and it shows - from references to specific archaeological sites/finds, to ancient Egyptian belief systems, to the construction of the afterlife and the various layers therein. Not only was a I enamored by all the (new to me) lore, but I was also excited to see scenes of what I knew (such as a particular moment where hearts are weighed against the feather of Maat for eternal judgment).

Overall I loved this book! It's a longer one, and some parts did start to drag for me, but I never lost interest in what was happening or fearful anticipation of what was going to happen next. It's a wonderful mix of mythology, thriller, and horror. Highly recommend!

*4.5 stars rounded up for Goodreads

[Brennan LaFaro · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m going to preface this by saying that I love when mythology twines together with my horror. Whether it be aspects of Greek, Norse, Celtic, Japanese, or in this case Egyptian, I love diving into the complex explanations and stories created by ancient cultures. When these stories break into the modern, or semi-modern day, driving into the lives of real people, I’m there for the ride. That said, this book had an A from the get-go, but it had to work to keep that A.

Tomb of Gods is precisely the type of novel I can never imagine myself writing. I mean, I would absolutely love to sign my name to something like this, but there’s an unparalleled depth of imagination on display here. It feels like everything, including the kitchen sink, is thrown at us, but it never feels like too much. The foundation is based heavily in Egyptian mythology, but Moreland is still able to put his own unique stamp on the world building that takes place here.

The story follows Imogen Riley, an Egyptologist whose Grandfather’s team disappears during an expedition. He reappears a year later covered head to toe in markings and symbols, and no longer in his right mind. Imogen leaps at an opportunity to retrace the steps of the expedition in question and try to unravel the mystery of what happened. What follows is a journey into the heart of Egyptian gods and lore, the underworld and afterlife associated with the mythology, and all the creatures that come along with it, some natural, some decidedly not. There is a kind of labyrinthian element to the way the dark realm leads our cast of characters through puzzles and challenges, ramping things up toward the conclusion.

The pacing here is top notch, using short chapters and consistent action to keep the reader perpetually engaged. I saw this book described somewhere as an R-rated version of Indiana Jones, and this comparison definitely works. There’s almost a moment where we go full Crystal Skull, but thankfully Moreland spares us and we end up with a satisfying conclusion that explores the origins of the main set of Egyptian gods.

Tomb of Gods freaked me out at some times, and entertained me at all others. People who enjoy horror interlaced with action and adventure will enjoy this. Anyone like me who likes mythology-based horror will love this.


I was given a copy by the publisher for review consideration.

[Tony · Rating 5 out of 5]

What lies beneath a newly discovered ancient Egyptian tomb?
An unlucky bunch of 1930s archaeologists are about to find out

At first glance it would be easy to presume you might have been around this block before with Brian Moreland’s superb Tomb of Gods, as the plot may sound a tad familiar….. “Archaeologist goes exploring in ancient Egyptian tomb, blah, blah, blah and encounters a world of pain….” Shelve that initial thought and kick it way into the long grass, as this very entertaining novel is considerably more than that. Within a few chapters you will quickly shake off any lingering feelings of déjà vu as Brian Moreland takes you deeper and darker than you have ever been before. I’m a huge fan of fiction which takes place underground, to the extent that in 2018 I wrote ‘Going Underground: Horrors Which Lurk Below’ for Ginger Nuts of Horror. If Tomb of God had been published around this time it would have easily mixed with the best on the list, including Scott Sigler’s Earthcore and my all-time favourite The Descent by Jeff Long. Check the article out here should you want to go exploring, but beware, there is no guarantee of a return journey:

https://gingernutsofhorror.com/featur...

The prologue of Tomb of God takes us back to Egypt 1250BC with Commander Tarik presiding over the mummification and burial of his recently deceased pharaoh, which also means the deaths of everybody involved in the burial being enclosed within the tomb with their emperor. After a few of Tarik’s soldiers have committed suicide and other terrified slaves have taken flight further down the tomb in fear of their lives the Commander realises there is something else in there with him. Something very dangerous and let’s just say there is no need for him to take his own life.

Tomb of Gods impressed me so much that upon completion one of the first thing I did after reaching the breath-taking climax was download another of Brian Moreland’s novels! It completely knocked me out from beginning to end, with some of the sequences so unrelentingly fast moving it was very hard to put down. Set in the mid-1930s, imminent British archaeologist, Dr Harlan Riley, vanishes inside a recently discovered Egyptian cave whilst looking for a famous and fabled tomb. A year later, the doctor returns covered in mysterious scars, which look like tattoos and is completely disorientated. He has seemingly lost his mind and is sent to a mental hospital but is rumoured to have uncovered a valuable tomb which promised both great riches and the opportunity to solve some of the mysteries of the ancient Egyptians. In true Indiana Jones style, the hunt to find the tomb and decipher Riley’s cryptic diary is on.

Egyptologist Imogen Riley is the granddaughter of Dr Harlan Riley, the man covered in the strange markings, and soon she joins the expedition to advance his research and heads below with Dr Nathan Trummel, who is leading the expedition. Before long, it looks like the dig is cursed after a series of deaths with the party descends deeper into the underworld, through a series of newly discovered levels. Soon they realise there are even deeper layers to the tomb and as they descend further, realise they are not alone. But what lies beneath the pyramid? That is when things really begin to kick off, when the book begins to move into an entirely unexpected, but very cool, new direction.

I was a big fan of main character Imogen Riley, a spunky young woman holding her own in a world which would have been dominated by men. In contrast, Nathan Trummel was a nasty piece of work who would have been at home in one of those Indiana Jones films I mentioned earlier, trying to steal the treasure and sell to the highest bidder. Another refreshing element was the avoidance of clichés you might expect with a horror novel set in an Egyptian tomb; there are no mummy’s coming back to life or creatures jumping out of catacombs. The beings the explorers encounter are much nastier than anything from the world of creaky clichés.

This was an outstanding horror novel featuring some of the best underground descriptions I have read in a good stretch. Also, the mythology explored in the second half of the story was simply outstanding expanding into unexpected supernatural and theological directions. You could cut the atmosphere with a knife and taste the claustrophobia as the party went deeper and deeper, including an outstanding scene where a soldier is crawling in a very narrow tunnel and is certain something is behind him and starts screaming when he is dragged backwards. But by what? This was terrific page-turning stuff.

Tomb of God was a book of two halves, both were excellent, the first sets the scene in the tomb, but the second goes completely mental and is unrelentingly unhinged. Imogen soon finds herself in a world of pain as everything spirals out of control, with old superstitions spooking her team, the journey for lost riches becomes an exhilarating battle for survival. Highly recommended.

[julianne · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I saw Brian Moreland had written a horror story based around Egypt how could I resist it?

Fast-paced and utterly engaging, I absolutely adored this. This isn't the first of the author's books I've read and it won't be the last.

Thanks to NetGalley and Flame Tree Press for a copy in exchange for an honest unbiased review.

[Glenn Rolfe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Moreland never disappoints. TOMB OF GODS is a non-stop trip through an underworld of Gods and Demons. You will be judged!

I loved these characters, even the ones we are supposed to hate. Moreland pulls you into this world beyond our own and gives you terror along with heart and soul. Wil you come out with yours? Stand before Osiris and let him weigh your sins.

I give TOMB OF GODS 4 stars!

[Laura Thomas · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow. I started reading this and couldn’t put it down. I’m always interested in books about archaeological adventures and this one had such a wicked title and mysterious description, I just knew it was gong to be fun.

There’s quite the cast of characters, and some had differing agendas. I had a feeling things were going to go sideways and they did.The author did a great job of filling in the background on his characters in just the right places in the story.

And there’s also something very strange about the dig. The deeper they go, the stranger and more dangerous it gets. So many things happened and I kept picturing them in my mind. Some times I had to stop and ponder what I would do too. It’s easy to think you’d be calm and cool, but I would probably be the ninny who goes running off screaming into the dark to meet a sticky end. LOL

I’ve enjoyed some of Brian’s other books and this was just as thrilling. And I’m still thinking about the ending. It’s a surprising twist.

I received a complimentary copy. My review is voluntarily given.

[Lou Jacobs · Rating 5 out of 5]

Harken back to the pulp fiction days of Weird Tales as this cinematic roller-coaster ride delivers a breathtaking adventure suitable for a Hammer Horror film of the 50's. Notable archeologist Harlan Riley leads an expedition into the deserts of Egypt in search of a lost tomb, only hinted at in scraps of ancient scrolls. His entire party disappears , only to have him found wandering in the desert a year later ... raving mad with his entire body covered in indecipherable markings like some type of human codex. Imogene Riley, curator for the British Museum, and his granddaughter joins a return expedition hopefully to finish his work ... unfortunately headed by an egotistical and unscrupulous colleague. (you know this won't end well). With the help of scraps of a map left by her grandfather, they find the entrance of the tomb through the Caves of Kahf Alssulta in the eastern deserts of Egypt on a mountain riddled with caves. The search is to find the mummy's tomb of Nebenteru ... high priest and advisor for King Ramses II, which was entombed with relics and riches beyond belief. The quest is a harrowing and riveting ride through nightmares and miracles. Guides and workers mysteriously vanish ... while others are butchered by unseen creatures. The expedition inevitably diminishes in size as they push on into a veritable maze of tunnels and canals that are guarded by demons? or gods? ( Who's to argue that a three thousand year old curse is merely superstitious nonsense?)
Moreland successfully captures a foreboding feeling that permeates throughout his narrative. One cannot help but read faster as the excitement and tension mount with the thrilling denouement . Thanks to NetGalley and Flame Tree Press for providing an electronic uncorrected proof in exchange for an honest review.
( at readersremains.com )