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Gods and Guardians #1
Goddess Ascending
Promised to the Light. Hunted by the Dark.
Two things happen the night Elidi Brant is she learns she's not human, and she is saved by the impressive and, also definitely not human, Kol Valco.
Kol tells her something big and world-breaking is after her, but he promises to protect her until she “ascends.”
Elidi doesn't know what ascending means or how to access the abilities Kol insists she has, but she trusts him.
The claws and fur he can sprout at will make her feel safe. However, safety is a fragile thing and the forces chasing her are more powerful than Elidi can imagine. With the clock on Elidi’s mortality ticking, she must find a way to access her gifts or kill them both in the process.
Two things happen the night Elidi Brant is she learns she's not human, and she is saved by the impressive and, also definitely not human, Kol Valco.
Kol tells her something big and world-breaking is after her, but he promises to protect her until she “ascends.”
Elidi doesn't know what ascending means or how to access the abilities Kol insists she has, but she trusts him.
The claws and fur he can sprout at will make her feel safe. However, safety is a fragile thing and the forces chasing her are more powerful than Elidi can imagine. With the clock on Elidi’s mortality ticking, she must find a way to access her gifts or kill them both in the process.
273 pages, Paperback
First published January 30, 2019
451 people are currently reading
470 people want to read
About the author
Heather Hildenbrand
179 books1,449 followersHeather Hildenbrand lives in coastal Virginia where she writes paranormal and fantasy romance with strong-willed heroines and dark, grumpy heroes who’ll burn the world down for their mate. Her most frequent hobbies are cuddling with her giant goldendoodles, riding country roads on the back of her husband’s motorcycle, and avoiding killer slugs.
You can find out more about Heather and her books at heatherhildenbrand.com.
You can find out more about Heather and her books at heatherhildenbrand.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
April 13, 2019
I keep getting surprised by how much I end up loving certain books and this is definitely one of those! The author does a great job of keeping me guessing and sprinkling information in strategic places to keep the story going. I liked the writing style very much!
Elidi was something alright! She's this supposedly powerful being and finds herself entrenched up to her neck in a world she didn't even know existed before the crap really hit the fan. I liked that she wasn't a woe-is-me kind of person or an I'll-stand-back-and-let-the-big-man-save-me kind of person. It made for a great story while moving at a steady pace.
I'm definitely on team Kol for this one! He's serious but he can joke around. Even though it's not officially official in their world he's doing what he believes is right. I like that quality in a character.
I loved the world the author built and how she made secondary characters so memorable and three-dimensional. It made for an even better and more realistic universe.
The one thing that bothered me in this book is deciphering whether or not this is a reverse harem novel. At times it seemed to subliminally swing towards that but then the heroine would state that she's set on one guy. It was weird. There's nothing mentioning it in the synopsis (as of scheduling this review) so I'm keeping my fingers crossed that it's not because it's not something I look for in the books I read.
A Note: After I finished the book I emailed the author inquiring about whether or not this series was going to be a reverse harem romance and her answer was yes. So it doesn't look like I'll be finishing this series even though I loved the world building and overall mythology the author created.
My Favorite Quotes:
"What's light without a little darkness?"
"The way to a man's heart is through his fourth and fifth rib [...]."
"You're the light. The sunshine. Remember that."
November 3, 2019
Yes!! I absolutely loved this slow burn RH book!
We meet Elidi and start the epic journey that has became her life. I was pulling in from the get go wanting-scratch that- NEEDING to know more about Elidi. Who she is, what she is, why this is happening?
You will not be disappointed with her story, the plot, characters, and world building of Goddess Ascending.
I highly suggest this read!
We meet Elidi and start the epic journey that has became her life. I was pulling in from the get go wanting-scratch that- NEEDING to know more about Elidi. Who she is, what she is, why this is happening?
You will not be disappointed with her story, the plot, characters, and world building of Goddess Ascending.
I highly suggest this read!
January 28, 2020
3.5 Stars!
Read
January 4, 2021DNF @ 29%
I didn't connect with the h at all.
I didn't connect with the h at all.
December 26, 2019
Interesting so far... hopefully it gets better... off to book 2...
Overall rating:
3*~ It's Good So Far
Overall rating:
3*~ It's Good So Far
December 13, 2019
Alright
This was intriguing, with all the right pieces for an epic story, but it still feel kinda flat with me. There is still so much World building that needs to be explained, though I am probably being impatient. These kinds of books often require the entire series to fully set the stage, but it still fells like not should have been imparted in this one, and not because of the ending. I’m like the FMC, eager to know and annoyed that secrets are being kept. Lol!
First person, single POV, Slow burn RH, fantasy.
Rating - YA
Romantic dynamic - MMMMF, eventually, I think. For book 1, M/F.
Character age range - 17+
Pros:
- myths, legends, gods, demons.
- The guys are all different and fairly interesting.
- I love Grim!
- Interesting concept.
Cons:
- too little explanation.
- secrets “for your own good” trope.... ugh.
- Fade to black??! Ok... YA... but... pfft
- Didn’t really connect to the FMC.
This was intriguing, with all the right pieces for an epic story, but it still feel kinda flat with me. There is still so much World building that needs to be explained, though I am probably being impatient. These kinds of books often require the entire series to fully set the stage, but it still fells like not should have been imparted in this one, and not because of the ending. I’m like the FMC, eager to know and annoyed that secrets are being kept. Lol!
First person, single POV, Slow burn RH, fantasy.
Rating - YA
Romantic dynamic - MMMMF, eventually, I think. For book 1, M/F.
Character age range - 17+
Pros:
- myths, legends, gods, demons.
- The guys are all different and fairly interesting.
- I love Grim!
- Interesting concept.
Cons:
- too little explanation.
- secrets “for your own good” trope.... ugh.
- Fade to black??! Ok... YA... but... pfft
- Didn’t really connect to the FMC.
January 17, 2019
Oh my goddess!! This was just so compelling and captivating and straight up entertaining!! I quickly fell in love with Elidi and Kol, Helix and even Grim. The boys are alluring and strong and dedicated. Everyone El meets is housing their own agenda and things become dicey when actions are brought into the light. Who can our girl trust!? That is the main question!! I found that I really didn't want to part from my reading time with this book. It just draws you in!! It's clever and sassy. You've got to love a book where you're figuring out everything right along with the main character. Ms. Hildenbrand is a pure creative genius. I love her twists and turns and the inner voice that she gives to her heroines is so very much needed and such a breath of fresh air 💗💗💗 I absolutely rush to read anything that this author releases. She is just so engaging and imaginative and wholly unique!!
June 4, 2022
Dnf at 24%.
The writing is competent but I just cannot with the fmc.
This girl. In the midst of fleeing for her life, she can just stop and throw a hissy and insist on not moving until she gets answers? While the persuers are literally just behind her?
Or how about being physically carried to safety and then whine and complain about being kidnapped multiple times.
Probably the last straw was when she threw a tantrum and sprouted bs about rescuing her aunt on her own when she couldn't even accomplish the act of leaving the boarding house without help.
TETL. Too entitled to live.
The writing is competent but I just cannot with the fmc.
This girl. In the midst of fleeing for her life, she can just stop and throw a hissy and insist on not moving until she gets answers? While the persuers are literally just behind her?
Or how about being physically carried to safety and then whine and complain about being kidnapped multiple times.
Probably the last straw was when she threw a tantrum and sprouted bs about rescuing her aunt on her own when she couldn't even accomplish the act of leaving the boarding house without help.
TETL. Too entitled to live.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 25, 2019
This is my second time reading this book and I enjoyed it as much as I did the first time. Elidi, the main female protagonist, did annoy me somewhat in the beginning in her refusal to believe what was happening since she had a ton of visual proof but mostly I liked her character. I am eager to get more information on the other characters as well as clear up some of the mystery surrounding Elidi. This story kept me interested the entire time.
March 13, 2019
A tumbling tumbleweed
Elidi is feeling a bit like a mushroom right now. Everyone she's cared about has lied to her and hidden things from her. Important things, like:
*You're a goddess
*I'm a goddess (her aunt)
*You're mom was a goddess
*You are going to ascend @18
*You have powers
*Curses exist
*There's a bunch of other gods and goddesses, and they have protectors that are basically giant werewolves
*You're immortal, but someone's trying to kill you
That last one is pretty important. Although, the whole being immortal and still being able to die could use some explanation, too. Then one night her aunt gets kidnapped and she gets hauled to a state home till either her friend can apply for custody or she ages out in a few months. And the fun only gets better from there, because after they she's kidnapped/saved by a giant wolf who can talk in her head, giant death pegasus unicorns from hell are trying to rip her apart, she nearly drowns and then her body tries to give out when she's taken to a new dimension. Add in some shady deities, some subtle (and not so subtle) power plays, near death experiences, pleasure laden lemonade, and dueling guardians, and the party has hit full swing.
Spoilers ahead!
That was fun. I still have questions, so many questions, but this was a fun read. A little more world building would be nice. Example: we get a pantheon of Norse and Greek gods but no Egyptian, Celtic, Asian, Native American, nada? No Titans or Ice Giants (the beings around before the Greek and Norse gods)? There's mention of a previous war, did that have something to do with it? Or did the author just pick a few popular deities to keep it simple? The 2 kinds of guardians, was odd. Especially since the redundancy system wasn't used for extra protection. It seems like they've been ignored, yet no one questioned his visions. Does that mean the others get chosen, too, and it just wasn't mentioned? Or that they resent existing without purpose? No one has described ascending. How can she be coached on powers by someone with a different skill set? How can she go from human to goddess when her parents are (at least one of them, dad wasn't mentioned but I have a feeling he'll be a surprise next book) gods. So, she's basically in a larval stage, cocooned in a human chrysalis, and will emerge as a goddess during/after ascending? The village on Black Peak in the god realm was just fancy tents. Why? Do they shun technology? Why are goddesses on Earth? If the god realm can kill humans, does the human realm weaken gods? Maybe I'm a bit of a geek but this is where my mind went while reading this lol. The book was fun, I enjoyed the humor and snark. I almost put it down before I hit the 30% mark because Elidi wasn't asking good questions, denied what she had seen with her own eyes and was refusing help from the person who had already saved her life twice. I was very afraid she was going to classified as TSTL. She still dragged her feet way too long, but she started pulling her act together. You think she'd have been pushing harder since the whole point was to get powerful enough to go save her aunt. But, I understand drawing out the plot, too.
Elidi is feeling a bit like a mushroom right now. Everyone she's cared about has lied to her and hidden things from her. Important things, like:
*You're a goddess
*I'm a goddess (her aunt)
*You're mom was a goddess
*You are going to ascend @18
*You have powers
*Curses exist
*There's a bunch of other gods and goddesses, and they have protectors that are basically giant werewolves
*You're immortal, but someone's trying to kill you
That last one is pretty important. Although, the whole being immortal and still being able to die could use some explanation, too. Then one night her aunt gets kidnapped and she gets hauled to a state home till either her friend can apply for custody or she ages out in a few months. And the fun only gets better from there, because after they she's kidnapped/saved by a giant wolf who can talk in her head, giant death pegasus unicorns from hell are trying to rip her apart, she nearly drowns and then her body tries to give out when she's taken to a new dimension. Add in some shady deities, some subtle (and not so subtle) power plays, near death experiences, pleasure laden lemonade, and dueling guardians, and the party has hit full swing.
Spoilers ahead!
That was fun. I still have questions, so many questions, but this was a fun read. A little more world building would be nice. Example: we get a pantheon of Norse and Greek gods but no Egyptian, Celtic, Asian, Native American, nada? No Titans or Ice Giants (the beings around before the Greek and Norse gods)? There's mention of a previous war, did that have something to do with it? Or did the author just pick a few popular deities to keep it simple? The 2 kinds of guardians, was odd. Especially since the redundancy system wasn't used for extra protection. It seems like they've been ignored, yet no one questioned his visions. Does that mean the others get chosen, too, and it just wasn't mentioned? Or that they resent existing without purpose? No one has described ascending. How can she be coached on powers by someone with a different skill set? How can she go from human to goddess when her parents are (at least one of them, dad wasn't mentioned but I have a feeling he'll be a surprise next book) gods. So, she's basically in a larval stage, cocooned in a human chrysalis, and will emerge as a goddess during/after ascending? The village on Black Peak in the god realm was just fancy tents. Why? Do they shun technology? Why are goddesses on Earth? If the god realm can kill humans, does the human realm weaken gods? Maybe I'm a bit of a geek but this is where my mind went while reading this lol. The book was fun, I enjoyed the humor and snark. I almost put it down before I hit the 30% mark because Elidi wasn't asking good questions, denied what she had seen with her own eyes and was refusing help from the person who had already saved her life twice. I was very afraid she was going to classified as TSTL. She still dragged her feet way too long, but she started pulling her act together. You think she'd have been pushing harder since the whole point was to get powerful enough to go save her aunt. But, I understand drawing out the plot, too.
August 7, 2022
This is my first audiobook by this author and I am going to definitely check out the rest of her backlog to see what's up because I definitely enjoyed this one! I am a huge RH lover so when I found out her series was starting to be on audiobook I was super excited since it had wolf shifters and gods involved ❤️
I thought this was a fast paced (in terms of story and conflict) but slow burn in terms of the romance of the book. I liked the backstory and learning more about each of the characters since THERE ARE SO MANY SECRETS! I liked the various side characters and hopefully El's harem and the dynamics involved in that. I can't wait for the lightbulb moment where you can have more than 1 guardian/love, so hope book 2 won't take long to get on audio so I can know what happens next. I liked El, but at times she was repetitive and a little timid which contradicted the self defense she was good at in the human world and how she compared her and Finn, she was the spitfire and feisty one but she didn't really do that in this book as much as I would have thought a character like that would. The feral aspect of the wolf dynamics was great, liked the back and forth the guys had. I really liked Grim's levity and when he opened himself up a bit and was vulnerable I felt for him!! I was annoyed with Cole and wanted more from Helix. I am still on the fence about Finn, only time will tell if I can trust him again haha. My biggest gripe with this story was the fade to black!! Like I wasn't expecting that at all and it did make me a little upset. Like I like slow burns but doing more high level/not graphic sexy scenes is waaaaay better than FTB.
I hope book 2 delves more into the powers and god dynamics of this story. I liked the glimpses of it but book 1 was definitely focused on more of the shifters (except with the baddie at the end). I think this story has a lot of potential and has a backbone to be a great series. Gonna hold off knowing what happens next because I want to listen to it after liking the performances in book 1. Thought Kelly did a good job with her narration, gave some great emotions for Elodie with the loss of her aunt and all the battles and attacks by the demon creatures. I thought her male portrayals were good too.
I thought this was a fast paced (in terms of story and conflict) but slow burn in terms of the romance of the book. I liked the backstory and learning more about each of the characters since THERE ARE SO MANY SECRETS! I liked the various side characters and hopefully El's harem and the dynamics involved in that. I can't wait for the lightbulb moment where you can have more than 1 guardian/love, so hope book 2 won't take long to get on audio so I can know what happens next. I liked El, but at times she was repetitive and a little timid which contradicted the self defense she was good at in the human world and how she compared her and Finn, she was the spitfire and feisty one but she didn't really do that in this book as much as I would have thought a character like that would. The feral aspect of the wolf dynamics was great, liked the back and forth the guys had. I really liked Grim's levity and when he opened himself up a bit and was vulnerable I felt for him!! I was annoyed with Cole and wanted more from Helix. I am still on the fence about Finn, only time will tell if I can trust him again haha. My biggest gripe with this story was the fade to black!! Like I wasn't expecting that at all and it did make me a little upset. Like I like slow burns but doing more high level/not graphic sexy scenes is waaaaay better than FTB.
I hope book 2 delves more into the powers and god dynamics of this story. I liked the glimpses of it but book 1 was definitely focused on more of the shifters (except with the baddie at the end). I think this story has a lot of potential and has a backbone to be a great series. Gonna hold off knowing what happens next because I want to listen to it after liking the performances in book 1. Thought Kelly did a good job with her narration, gave some great emotions for Elodie with the loss of her aunt and all the battles and attacks by the demon creatures. I thought her male portrayals were good too.
August 19, 2022
Fated Consorts is the second series of Heather Hildenbrand and while I'm just on the first book, Goddess Ascending, I can already tell I'm gonna love it. This fantasy is filled with gods and goddesses, wolf shifters called guardians, magic, demons, multiple realms, and more and all of it is centered around Elodie as she starts to transform into who she has always meant to become.
The main character is Elodie and I love her. She's stubborn, sassy, and brave. A whole new world was open to her along with an enemy she didn't know she had but instead of being in denial, she faces it head-on with great maturity. She's learning along the way while also trying to understand the world around her.
So this is a reverse harem and there are a few guys in Elodie's life. Cole, who is playful yet brooding, Felix, who is brooding but caring, Finn, El's best friend, and Grim a hot god. All of it's super complicated but each of the guys are determined to protect Elodie with everything they have. She has a connection with all of them and only time will tell how they come together.
This book had all the fantastical elements I love with a rich history. All the gods are in this one, from Zeus to Odin, mythologies were mixed and I'm here for it. I love getting to know the gods that showed in this one, one is giving off a weird vibe, they aren't to be trusted. The drama was off the charts, with too many lies and an unknown enemy who is attacking at every turn. There's so much excitement and action but most of all there's the mystery. So many questions, will Elodie ascend? What other dangers are in store for Elodie? And do much more.
Goddess Ascending was fantastic, Kelly Pruner did a great job bringing Elodie's story to life. So much has happened but there's so much more to go and I can't wait to see where the journey takes Elodie next.
The main character is Elodie and I love her. She's stubborn, sassy, and brave. A whole new world was open to her along with an enemy she didn't know she had but instead of being in denial, she faces it head-on with great maturity. She's learning along the way while also trying to understand the world around her.
So this is a reverse harem and there are a few guys in Elodie's life. Cole, who is playful yet brooding, Felix, who is brooding but caring, Finn, El's best friend, and Grim a hot god. All of it's super complicated but each of the guys are determined to protect Elodie with everything they have. She has a connection with all of them and only time will tell how they come together.
This book had all the fantastical elements I love with a rich history. All the gods are in this one, from Zeus to Odin, mythologies were mixed and I'm here for it. I love getting to know the gods that showed in this one, one is giving off a weird vibe, they aren't to be trusted. The drama was off the charts, with too many lies and an unknown enemy who is attacking at every turn. There's so much excitement and action but most of all there's the mystery. So many questions, will Elodie ascend? What other dangers are in store for Elodie? And do much more.
Goddess Ascending was fantastic, Kelly Pruner did a great job bringing Elodie's story to life. So much has happened but there's so much more to go and I can't wait to see where the journey takes Elodie next.
January 30, 2019
Freaking Fantastic! Fast pace, action pack and humor that will have you smiling and giggling. This story was so much fun to read I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough! It grabs you and keeps you at the edge of your seat! There’s definitely more coming up and I can’t wait!! Kol and Elidi bright up the screen every time they are together. Their sass and chemistry is hot! The supporting characters are also so enjoyable my heart is split into two. Too many HOT guy’s man! Just saying! We have Elidi who thinks shes human and little does she know she’s a god. Which explain a lot of her weird episodes in life. The one person she trusted turn out to be not so nice; Finn. We don’t know what his true intentions are because he is playing on both sides. One trying to protect Elidi and the other one hunting her down to kill her aka Nyx goddess of the night. Which explains a little.. Because Elidi is trying to get her powers and be the god she is meant to be: Goddess of the Light. Enter Kol, Helix and Grim. Three sexy Alphas. All trying to protect her and get her to Ascend! Not so easy when you have a powerful GOD chasing you with an army and enemies coming every way! S**** gets real really fast. I’m so ready for the next one! You can pre order now! It’s in my bag. Must read!
February 13, 2019
I found absorbed by the story from the very beginning. Elidi is bright and sarcastic with a physical and metal strength that are only matched by her sarcasm. I love a strong heroine, and she has a dazzling wit and quick mind that captured me and made me want to accompany her on her journey wherever it would take us. The story begins with personal discovery and the action never ceases. The story takes us on an enlightening and entertaining adventure full of captivating characters and spellbinding settings. And each of the secondary characters is an important element to the story and to the lives of one another. Nothing is as it seems, and it made me question whether any moment was real or if it was only for her benefit. Even friendships are questionable as she finds out quickly. And when Kol enters the story, it's a game changer on several levels. But it's when Elidi learns who she really is and what is she is to become that makes the adventure possible and necessary.
The characters are beguiling. The locations are imaginative. Elidi is especially engaging and amusing. I thoroughly enjoyed it from the moment I began reading. The growth of the author's writing is evident, and her imagination is captivating. I am eager to read the subsequent chapters in Elidi's life.
The characters are beguiling. The locations are imaginative. Elidi is especially engaging and amusing. I thoroughly enjoyed it from the moment I began reading. The growth of the author's writing is evident, and her imagination is captivating. I am eager to read the subsequent chapters in Elidi's life.
May 8, 2020
Book one of series
Interesting so far and full of action. No cliffhanger her say, but this is only a section of the story. Nothing was resolved in this book, but a lot of information was revealed. I'd be annoyed, if I hadn't already checked to ensure the entire series is out.
The h is a godless ascending, meaning she is mortal for the most part, until she fully ascends. She is lied to by basically everyone and has no idea who or what she is. Kol, a guardian werewolf shifter, is her first champion. Grim, the god of secrets is interested in her protection as well, though his interests are skewed a little. Helix is from a rival pack, but also a guardian and wolf shifter. There seems to be a power struggle on who should rightfully be her guardian. She is betrayed by someone she trusts. I hope we get a good response for why in book two. Hopefully everyone can keep her safe from the goddess trying to kill her, at least until she is ascended and might can defend herself better. Told entirely from h POV. This series will need to be read in order, since there isn't a complete storyline in each book, then overall ARC like most series. Each book just picks up after the last. The author warned of cliffhanger as well.
Interesting so far and full of action. No cliffhanger her say, but this is only a section of the story. Nothing was resolved in this book, but a lot of information was revealed. I'd be annoyed, if I hadn't already checked to ensure the entire series is out.
The h is a godless ascending, meaning she is mortal for the most part, until she fully ascends. She is lied to by basically everyone and has no idea who or what she is. Kol, a guardian werewolf shifter, is her first champion. Grim, the god of secrets is interested in her protection as well, though his interests are skewed a little. Helix is from a rival pack, but also a guardian and wolf shifter. There seems to be a power struggle on who should rightfully be her guardian. She is betrayed by someone she trusts. I hope we get a good response for why in book two. Hopefully everyone can keep her safe from the goddess trying to kill her, at least until she is ascended and might can defend herself better. Told entirely from h POV. This series will need to be read in order, since there isn't a complete storyline in each book, then overall ARC like most series. Each book just picks up after the last. The author warned of cliffhanger as well.
February 4, 2019
*I have received an ARC in exchange for an honest review
This novel is not at all your run of the mill YA Paranormal novel. It is so much more. There was so much intrigue and twists in this novel. I liked how the author made Elidi such a relatable heroine. Her story was extremely relatable and realistic. I liked how everything was not roses and smilies. There were a lot of great unexpected events that made me unable to put the book down. In addition, I really liked the world building in this novel. I liked how the wolves were so sexy but also human. They weren't these old barbaric people who had a lack of understanding of humans. Instead, they were good people from the inside.
The romance also was a great part of the novel. I liked how it was an extreme slow-burn and people couldn't figure out who exactly was the love interest. There was chemistry and sparks, but the author did a really good job making sure that the smidgen of romance did not take away from the center of the story.
Overall, this is a great novel by an amazing author. I had a great time reading it and can't wait learn more about the amazing world the author has created.
This novel is not at all your run of the mill YA Paranormal novel. It is so much more. There was so much intrigue and twists in this novel. I liked how the author made Elidi such a relatable heroine. Her story was extremely relatable and realistic. I liked how everything was not roses and smilies. There were a lot of great unexpected events that made me unable to put the book down. In addition, I really liked the world building in this novel. I liked how the wolves were so sexy but also human. They weren't these old barbaric people who had a lack of understanding of humans. Instead, they were good people from the inside.
The romance also was a great part of the novel. I liked how it was an extreme slow-burn and people couldn't figure out who exactly was the love interest. There was chemistry and sparks, but the author did a really good job making sure that the smidgen of romance did not take away from the center of the story.
Overall, this is a great novel by an amazing author. I had a great time reading it and can't wait learn more about the amazing world the author has created.
July 27, 2019
Reality Check
•••NOT for the homophobic, transphobic, closedminded, or faint of heart!•••
This series must be read in order. This is the first book. I can't wait to read "Goddess Claiming"!
Elidi thinks she is a normal 17 year old girl being Homeschooled by her Aunt with a major background in self defense... Then the monsters come and EVERYTHING she thought she knew goes out the window. Monsters are real!? What do they want with her? Who or what is she really? Why has everyone hidden things and lied to her her whole life? Is there anyone she can trust? Anywhere she can be safe?
This book sucked me in and devoured me whole. Before I knew it the book was over and I was just ready to dive in for more! This is not your run of the mill coming of age story. I can't wait to read more!
***This series is suitable for adult readers who enjoy new adult urban fantasy with plenty of plot twists and major upheavals with a heroine who refuses to live by any rules other than her own :)
•••NOT for the homophobic, transphobic, closedminded, or faint of heart!•••
This series must be read in order. This is the first book. I can't wait to read "Goddess Claiming"!
Elidi thinks she is a normal 17 year old girl being Homeschooled by her Aunt with a major background in self defense... Then the monsters come and EVERYTHING she thought she knew goes out the window. Monsters are real!? What do they want with her? Who or what is she really? Why has everyone hidden things and lied to her her whole life? Is there anyone she can trust? Anywhere she can be safe?
This book sucked me in and devoured me whole. Before I knew it the book was over and I was just ready to dive in for more! This is not your run of the mill coming of age story. I can't wait to read more!
***This series is suitable for adult readers who enjoy new adult urban fantasy with plenty of plot twists and major upheavals with a heroine who refuses to live by any rules other than her own :)
January 15, 2023
I enjoyed it. The romance spools out slow (🤔 and I guess also fast). The storyline was interesting enough.
What has quelled me from enjoying it more is she makes reckless decisions. I guess I’m someone who acknowledges that others have different strengths than me, and I can trust them when appropriate.
She’s like naaaah, I’m gonna go out of this protection circle.
Nahhh, I’m gonna run towards some random fella who I have never met before instead of my best mate because daayum is he hot and we have instant attraction.
Nahhh, I’m gonna ignore the fact that I know nothing of this new world and not trust people who do.
Hmm. Now that I’m writing these all down, I didn’t realise how much these things bugged me. And there’s more, but who needs to state those when you can see for yourself?
The book was enjoyable, she made decisions that were impulsive and reeked of immaturity, but if those decisions are things you can easily look past for the sake of a story (I know I’ve done it many times myself on different books), then this is an enjoyable read.
What has quelled me from enjoying it more is she makes reckless decisions. I guess I’m someone who acknowledges that others have different strengths than me, and I can trust them when appropriate.
She’s like naaaah, I’m gonna go out of this protection circle.
Nahhh, I’m gonna run towards some random fella who I have never met before instead of my best mate because daayum is he hot and we have instant attraction.
Nahhh, I’m gonna ignore the fact that I know nothing of this new world and not trust people who do.
Hmm. Now that I’m writing these all down, I didn’t realise how much these things bugged me. And there’s more, but who needs to state those when you can see for yourself?
The book was enjoyable, she made decisions that were impulsive and reeked of immaturity, but if those decisions are things you can easily look past for the sake of a story (I know I’ve done it many times myself on different books), then this is an enjoyable read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 18, 2019
OMG, I stayed up way too late on a week night because I couldn’t put it down! There’s so much going on in this story, I couldn’t even predict let alone guess what would happen next. It totally kept me on the edge of my seat. The world building is evolving just as the Goddess Ascending is learning it herself. The whole story is sort of mind blowing creative, I’ve not read another story like this before. Elidi is a fantastic heroine character with so much possibilities for this series. Kol is a great hero character, I enjoyed the chemistry between the two. There are some other great male characters, that I hope we get to see more of in the series (Grim & Helix), maybe they can get some love as well. Yes, there is a bit of a cliff-hanger, leaving you wondering what’s going to happen next. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series! Book 2 will be out April 3, 2019!
January 31, 2019
So excited for this one!
Elidi (which is like a badass name right?) finds out her whole life is not what she thought and instead she is a goddess and all hell breaks lose for the poor girl. She cant catch a break once a hit comes out on her. She learns friends are possible enemies and people she never knew she know trusts with all her heart. She is powerful and it's a story of a heroine that takes everyone by surprise. I love the dynamic she has with Grim and Kol, I secretly are hoping for both cause who wouldn't? Finn is currently on my shit list probably wont get off anytime soon. Super exciting and definitely full of amazing action.
Elidi (which is like a badass name right?) finds out her whole life is not what she thought and instead she is a goddess and all hell breaks lose for the poor girl. She cant catch a break once a hit comes out on her. She learns friends are possible enemies and people she never knew she know trusts with all her heart. She is powerful and it's a story of a heroine that takes everyone by surprise. I love the dynamic she has with Grim and Kol, I secretly are hoping for both cause who wouldn't? Finn is currently on my shit list probably wont get off anytime soon. Super exciting and definitely full of amazing action.
February 13, 2019
Exciting with Every Turn of the Page
I could not help but enjoy the excitement I felt every time I turned a page in this book. There was something new every time. Sometimes it was like sitting on the edge of your seat trying to figure out what was going to happen.
Reading this story you almost feel envy for the goddess having 3 hot men at her beck and call, sometimes 4. I know I have a hard time choosing which one I want for my chosen.
Reading this book you never know who she is going to choose because every time you think it's this one it's not. You will truly enjoy this journey.
Until Next Time... Tabi
I could not help but enjoy the excitement I felt every time I turned a page in this book. There was something new every time. Sometimes it was like sitting on the edge of your seat trying to figure out what was going to happen.
Reading this story you almost feel envy for the goddess having 3 hot men at her beck and call, sometimes 4. I know I have a hard time choosing which one I want for my chosen.
Reading this book you never know who she is going to choose because every time you think it's this one it's not. You will truly enjoy this journey.
Until Next Time... Tabi
January 27, 2019
First of all, I just want to say thank you to Heather Hildenbrand for giving me an ARC of this book to read in exchange for an honest review. No compensation was given, offered, or taken to alter the opinion.
I'm always excited to read anything by Heather, so when I heard she had a new book coming out, I couldn't wait to get my hands on it! I love the creativity of this storyline: gods, goddesses, wolf guardians, and more! This is like nothing I have ever read before, which is saying a lot because I read a lot of books. I'm definitely looking forward to reading the next one in the series!
I'm always excited to read anything by Heather, so when I heard she had a new book coming out, I couldn't wait to get my hands on it! I love the creativity of this storyline: gods, goddesses, wolf guardians, and more! This is like nothing I have ever read before, which is saying a lot because I read a lot of books. I'm definitely looking forward to reading the next one in the series!
January 30, 2019
I'm Hooked
This is a slow burn book that is guaranteed to light you on fire. Elidie is intelligent, witty and sarcastic which I find quite funny. Her reaction to her new world is believeable and it makes her even more likeable. This book gets right into the action and Heather Hildenbrand is great at building anticipation. I really like the way the characters are introduced and there are definitely some panty melters in the mix. I have already pre-ordered the next book Goddess Claiming
This is a slow burn book that is guaranteed to light you on fire. Elidie is intelligent, witty and sarcastic which I find quite funny. Her reaction to her new world is believeable and it makes her even more likeable. This book gets right into the action and Heather Hildenbrand is great at building anticipation. I really like the way the characters are introduced and there are definitely some panty melters in the mix. I have already pre-ordered the next book Goddess Claiming
July 13, 2021
An okay way to waist an afternoon.
This is a simple story that has no character development and a rushed plot. Without any compelling reason for the romantic attachments besides proximity to one another one wonders why the characters would be involved. The only reason to continue reading the series is to get the why behind Finns betrayal but one would have to care about the FMC to continue reading. For being a reverse harem this book is surprisingly tame, both it's maturity level and lack of graphic content makes it safe to give to a middle schooler.
This is a simple story that has no character development and a rushed plot. Without any compelling reason for the romantic attachments besides proximity to one another one wonders why the characters would be involved. The only reason to continue reading the series is to get the why behind Finns betrayal but one would have to care about the FMC to continue reading. For being a reverse harem this book is surprisingly tame, both it's maturity level and lack of graphic content makes it safe to give to a middle schooler.
October 29, 2022
Goddess Ascending: A Reverse Harem Shifter Romance (Fated Consorts Book 1)
Loved 🥰 loved 🥰 you did it again Heather! I love every book that I have read so far that you wrote. You have managed to create a whole new world where there’s so many wolf men to love! Did I mention there’s a strong female in here who seems to have her choice of any person or creature she wants. Hmm...sounds like fun! Cant read to read book two in series next …. Definitely recommend anything Heather writes.. ❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥
Loved 🥰 loved 🥰 you did it again Heather! I love every book that I have read so far that you wrote. You have managed to create a whole new world where there’s so many wolf men to love! Did I mention there’s a strong female in here who seems to have her choice of any person or creature she wants. Hmm...sounds like fun! Cant read to read book two in series next …. Definitely recommend anything Heather writes.. ❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥
January 30, 2019
Brilliant. That basically sums everything. Heather has outdone herself with story line and characters.
I love how she started the book. But no. Nkt telling you all. Read it. It was not a conventional start of the book. It was unique and straight away pulling you in.
The story shows new goddess awakening to her powers and her destiny. And let’s not forget all the hot guys that are there. And that chocolate heals everything. Winner!
Love it. Can’t wait for the next book.
5 heavenly stars!
I love how she started the book. But no. Nkt telling you all. Read it. It was not a conventional start of the book. It was unique and straight away pulling you in.
The story shows new goddess awakening to her powers and her destiny. And let’s not forget all the hot guys that are there. And that chocolate heals everything. Winner!
Love it. Can’t wait for the next book.
5 heavenly stars!
February 2, 2019
LOVED this book!! If life hadn't gotten in the way I would have read the entire thing in one sitting. It has everything! Action, heart and tons and tons of humor. I can't wait to see what happens next!
Favorite Quote:
“And if I refuse your protection?” I ask. He shrugs.
“I’ll follow you anyway, and when danger threatens, I’ll do everything I can to save you from it until you’re strong enough to save yourself.”
Favorite Quote:
“And if I refuse your protection?” I ask. He shrugs.
“I’ll follow you anyway, and when danger threatens, I’ll do everything I can to save you from it until you’re strong enough to save yourself.”
February 6, 2019
Oh my goddess! This book had me hooked from page one. It’s got the perfect balance of funny, sexy, action and everything in between! Elidi is the perfect heroine, she’s such a badass, Kol stole my heart with his brooding self. So many hot guys to choose from. This book had me staying up way too late, it’s so intriguing I couldn’t wait to find out what happened next and the cliffhanger it left me on is killing me! If you’re looking for the next best action romance this is the book for you!!
June 18, 2019
Can’t wait to read more.
This book was good and the characters are captivating. I especially liked the chemistry between Kol and Helix.
The plot is fast paced so you are entertained the whole time but pacing in the beginning was extremely chaotic. Formatting was not consistent throughout book which I think lead to the pacing issues.
I like the book and story line so yes I will be reading the rest of the series.
This book was good and the characters are captivating. I especially liked the chemistry between Kol and Helix.
The plot is fast paced so you are entertained the whole time but pacing in the beginning was extremely chaotic. Formatting was not consistent throughout book which I think lead to the pacing issues.
I like the book and story line so yes I will be reading the rest of the series.
May 4, 2020
Book 1 in Heather Hildenbrand’s new series Gods and Guardians was not only captivating in its storytelling and characters, but also full of twists and turns that will have readers on the edge of their seats! Our heroine Elidi is such an interesting character! Her reactions to what is happening around her is truly compelling. I of course loved the growing romance between her and her guardians, and I look forward to continue the series in book 2!
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