eddavzz's review
emotional
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75
jenvile's review
5.0
If I cannot bend the will of Heaven, I shall move Hell.
This story was dangling right at the precipice of bliss, but your innate desires force you to turn into a monster. An absolute monster. Every line in this book made me want to scream in god damn agony and I loved every fucking moment of it.
There’s a reason why humans are regarded as sinners, and I never really cared for that sentiment until now. Until I met Henri and Orlando. Until I met the people/gods surrounding Henri and Orlando.
You will be seduced in this world of Demi-God’s, Angels, Demons, Warriors, Dancers, Murderers filled with themes of damnation, blood, desire, magic, obsession, lust, pain... love.
Love.
Is that the greatest sin of all I wonder? To love, and to be completely consumed by love?
I’ve read a lot of books, but nothing I’ve read has been this, and it earned a spot in my 2020 favourites. I am so excited to see where else the author will take with this story (if there ends up being a sequel). Laura Lascarso will be on my radar now, and I’m so ready for what she has in store for future releases.
You possessed a beauty that could be a blessing or a curse, depending on who coveted it.
This story was dangling right at the precipice of bliss, but your innate desires force you to turn into a monster. An absolute monster. Every line in this book made me want to scream in god damn agony and I loved every fucking moment of it.
There’s a reason why humans are regarded as sinners, and I never really cared for that sentiment until now. Until I met Henri and Orlando. Until I met the people/gods surrounding Henri and Orlando.
You will be seduced in this world of Demi-God’s, Angels, Demons, Warriors, Dancers, Murderers filled with themes of damnation, blood, desire, magic, obsession, lust, pain... love.
Love.
Is that the greatest sin of all I wonder? To love, and to be completely consumed by love?
I’ve read a lot of books, but nothing I’ve read has been this, and it earned a spot in my 2020 favourites. I am so excited to see where else the author will take with this story (if there ends up being a sequel). Laura Lascarso will be on my radar now, and I’m so ready for what she has in store for future releases.
You possessed a beauty that could be a blessing or a curse, depending on who coveted it.
sabrina7's review
this book was weird — i wanted to push through and stick around for whatever plot-twist was going to happen later in the book but i just couldnt get over henri’s predatory thoughts and actions towards orlando. reading this made me feel icky :/
Content Warnings
Graphic: Rape and Pedophilia
rohkostjana's review
3.0
3½ stars - only read if you can stomach all kinds of abuse!
unexpectedly liked the povs, unexpectedly disliked the smut.
orlando turned into bella swan halfway through, which was both hilarious and exhausting. will tune in for book 2!
unexpectedly liked the povs, unexpectedly disliked the smut.
orlando turned into bella swan halfway through, which was both hilarious and exhausting. will tune in for book 2!
loulou87's review
5.0
Holy freaking shit! THIS BOOK IS AWESOME!
REVIEW TO COME!
I received a copy from the author and this is my honest review...
OK I JUST FINISHED THIS BOOK AND OMG IT'S AMAZING AND EVERYONE SHOULD READ IT!
For fans of #UrbanFantasy #Vampirism #Angels #Angst
PS.... Get a buddy reader because you will need emotional support! And VENTING! .... Mine was the awesome Nikki Simpson
PPS... heed the trigger warnings.
Why read this book....
1. The Characters....
Orlando: The ballerino, the child who was dealt a bad hand, but who had a guardian angel on his side, to help him, guide him, protect him and love him. #AlwaysThere
Henri: The guardian angel, the nephilim, the fallen king. All those titles are overshadowed by what he is to Orlando... his lover, his soulmate, his secret. #HideYouAway
2. The Plot...
Unique, engaging, investing, out of the box and so much more. It is a story of secrets and love, obsession and pain. Also... beware the angst and get tissues. #OneOfAKind
3. The Romance...
Slow burn because of Orlando's age when we meet him. The romance that blooms between them over time is organic, romantic and flawless. #Inevitable
4. The Heat...
LEVEL 10 HEAT! Holy freaking hell, the sex scenes were scorching! #PantiesWentPoof
5. The Point of view...
This is written in delicious second person point of view. #Yum
6. The Ending...
It's a cliffy... yup... but good news! Book 2 is out so you can jump right in when you finish this, just like I am right now. #NoPatience
#HappyReading
REVIEW TO COME!
I received a copy from the author and this is my honest review...
OK I JUST FINISHED THIS BOOK AND OMG IT'S AMAZING AND EVERYONE SHOULD READ IT!
For fans of #UrbanFantasy #Vampirism #Angels #Angst
PS.... Get a buddy reader because you will need emotional support! And VENTING! .... Mine was the awesome Nikki Simpson
PPS... heed the trigger warnings.
Why read this book....
1. The Characters....
Orlando: The ballerino, the child who was dealt a bad hand, but who had a guardian angel on his side, to help him, guide him, protect him and love him. #AlwaysThere
Henri: The guardian angel, the nephilim, the fallen king. All those titles are overshadowed by what he is to Orlando... his lover, his soulmate, his secret. #HideYouAway
2. The Plot...
Unique, engaging, investing, out of the box and so much more. It is a story of secrets and love, obsession and pain. Also... beware the angst and get tissues. #OneOfAKind
3. The Romance...
Slow burn because of Orlando's age when we meet him. The romance that blooms between them over time is organic, romantic and flawless. #Inevitable
4. The Heat...
LEVEL 10 HEAT! Holy freaking hell, the sex scenes were scorching! #PantiesWentPoof
5. The Point of view...
This is written in delicious second person point of view. #Yum
6. The Ending...
It's a cliffy... yup... but good news! Book 2 is out so you can jump right in when you finish this, just like I am right now. #NoPatience
#HappyReading
skyeangei's review
3.0
3.5 Stars
So that ending just fucked me up. I already saw a spoiler so I knew what was coming but I still read the book and was pretending the whole time that I never saw no spoiler. Whoever said ignorance is bliss is absolutely right.
This is a PNR between a Nephilim and a human. Not the best I've read but I have a soft spot for books that are angel-related.
The world-building is pretty shaky. Most humans have no idea angels and demons are real and can possess their bodies, but Orlando (the human mc) pretty much announces to everybody that he has a demon boyfriend. Most people were like okay Orlando you do you, but I thought he could've been more lowkey about their relationship.
Orlando is 18 for most of the book, and he acts exactly how you'd expect someone his age to act. In his own words: "I’m spiteful, jealous, and possessive". Straight up he was a brat and made the worst decisions. But surprise surprise, he also really grew on me. This whole book I just wanted him to be safe and loved.
Henri (pronounced on-ree) is our 2k yr old nephilim. In the words of Orlando's friend: "Talk about a shriveled dick. That bitch be looking like a California raisin." Sorry but I died laughing reading that.
And then Henri's reaction: "I did not care for Tyrell speaking about my hypothetical genitals in such a derogatory manner". Bruh
So that ending just fucked me up. I already saw a spoiler so I knew what was coming but I still read the book and was pretending the whole time that I never saw no spoiler. Whoever said ignorance is bliss is absolutely right.
This is a PNR between a Nephilim and a human. Not the best I've read but I have a soft spot for books that are angel-related.
The world-building is pretty shaky. Most humans have no idea angels and demons are real and can possess their bodies, but Orlando (the human mc) pretty much announces to everybody that he has a demon boyfriend. Most people were like okay Orlando you do you, but I thought he could've been more lowkey about their relationship.
Orlando is 18 for most of the book, and he acts exactly how you'd expect someone his age to act. In his own words: "I’m spiteful, jealous, and possessive". Straight up he was a brat and made the worst decisions. But surprise surprise, he also really grew on me. This whole book I just wanted him to be safe and loved.
Henri (pronounced on-ree) is our 2k yr old nephilim. In the words of Orlando's friend: "Talk about a shriveled dick. That bitch be looking like a California raisin." Sorry but I died laughing reading that.
And then Henri's reaction: "I did not care for Tyrell speaking about my hypothetical genitals in such a derogatory manner". Bruh
claudiereads's review
dark
emotional
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
5.0
Wow. It’s been a while since I've cried over a book, but this one broke my heart. From the very first pages until the end, I was drowning in feels. It was unputdownable. It was unlike anything I’ve ever read.
Orlando was a sassy kid with serious issues. I completely adored him. He'd been dealt a shitty hand, and my heart went out to him. For better or for worse, his chance encounter with Henri - both a blessing and a curse - shaped the rest of his life. Orlando imprinted on him like a baby duckling.
Henri was Orlando’s savior in so many ways. Caring and considerate, but also ruthless and forceful, he was a study in contrast and arguably one of my favorite characters ever. I was a bit wary when he became so fixated on Orlando when he was just six years old Spoilerespecially considering what was going on in Orlando’s life at the time. I shouldn’t have - the story progressed beautifully, and I was taken on a ride I won’t soon forget.
Their relationship was INTENSE - obsessive, codependent, and not very healthy at all. But that was the beauty of it. Who’d want to read about an easy relationship with an immortal being, anyway? Not me, that’s for sure. And don’t even get me started on the sex. Holy cow, some of THE hottest scenes I’ve read in MY LIFE are in this book. Definitely NSFW.
The world building was amazing, and the unique narration style (second person POV) was the perfect choice for this story. It was everything I could hope for and more. After such an ending, though, I need the sequel ASAP!
Orlando was a sassy kid with serious issues. I completely adored him. He'd been dealt a shitty hand, and my heart went out to him. For better or for worse, his chance encounter with Henri - both a blessing and a curse - shaped the rest of his life. Orlando imprinted on him like a baby duckling.
Henri was Orlando’s savior in so many ways. Caring and considerate, but also ruthless and forceful, he was a study in contrast and arguably one of my favorite characters ever. I was a bit wary when he became so fixated on Orlando when he was just six years old Spoilerespecially considering what was going on in Orlando’s life at the time. I shouldn’t have - the story progressed beautifully, and I was taken on a ride I won’t soon forget.
Their relationship was INTENSE - obsessive, codependent, and not very healthy at all. But that was the beauty of it. Who’d want to read about an easy relationship with an immortal being, anyway? Not me, that’s for sure. And don’t even get me started on the sex. Holy cow, some of THE hottest scenes I’ve read in MY LIFE are in this book. Definitely NSFW.
The world building was amazing, and the unique narration style (second person POV) was the perfect choice for this story. It was everything I could hope for and more. After such an ending, though, I need the sequel ASAP!
shile87's review
5.0
Infinity Duh! Stars
To a human, time is fleeting. Like daylight in the winter months. Or a powdery dusting of snow on the ground, only existing until the morning sun burns it away.
Gushing! Ahead!
This is the best paranormal book ever. Mortals and Divines for the win. I freaking loved it. Everything works from the beginning. GAAAAAAHHH!!!!!
We get the POVs of both characters, it is so satisfying, I can’t even explain. I said it once and I will say it again Laura owns my heart. This book is like nothing I have read before same goes for her previous books [b:Hiroku|40123971|Hiroku|Laura Lascarso|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1526359903l/40123971._SY75_.jpg|62228513] and [b:The Bravest Thing|48408523|The Bravest Thing|Laura Lascarso|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1570743785l/48408523._SY75_.jpg|55643895]. They are the best Lgbtq YA books ever.
Or main MCs are Henri and Orlando – These two are very well developed characters. We get to know them from a young age and grow with them. There is a special connection when you get to grow with the characters. Henri and Orlando are very intriguing, fresh and are so interesting that you can’t help but root and fall in love with them from the beginning of the story.
The side characters are also well developed. I am hoping in the near future we get to read some of their stories.
The story itself flows so well from page one. The world building is so beautiful, interesting and so well done. Laura didn’t leave anything to chance. I was left mesmerized by this world of Mortals and Divines. I will not go into details because I don’t want to give anything about the plot away, it is better to go in blind and be mesmerized by this beautiful world that Laura has created.
The best part of this book is the relationship. GAAAAAHHH! Talk about the slowest of the slowest burns. It feels so good. It is so romantic, the old fashioned kind that i love so much. Henri and Orlando have chemistry that is off the pages. I could feel it burn through me. I was tingly every time they were on page together. It was oozing sexual tension.
The sex, LAAAAAWD Father….. Laura decided to let her kinky side out to play. The sex in this book does not shy away from any sex space.. We get the things plus money shot after money shot. So - so worth it. Double GAAAAAAAHHH!!!!
“Yes,” you rasped and spread your cheeks wide to make an offering of yourself. I took one of your knees over my shoulder again and dragged you all the way to the edge of the table, so that my angle was most advantageous.
Let’s not forget the other best part. The humor! I was Loling so hard my stomach almost didn’t survive. Gaaaahhhhh!!!!
Book of Orlando is everything. It is an enchanting story, i was seduced to fall in with the story from the beginning. I laughed, I cried, I was heartbroken, I loved, I fell in love and everything in between. Orlando, Henri and everyone in this book, except some characters.....
Highly Recommended.
Arc generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
To a human, time is fleeting. Like daylight in the winter months. Or a powdery dusting of snow on the ground, only existing until the morning sun burns it away.
Gushing! Ahead!
This is the best paranormal book ever. Mortals and Divines for the win. I freaking loved it. Everything works from the beginning. GAAAAAAHHH!!!!!
We get the POVs of both characters, it is so satisfying, I can’t even explain. I said it once and I will say it again Laura owns my heart. This book is like nothing I have read before same goes for her previous books [b:Hiroku|40123971|Hiroku|Laura Lascarso|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1526359903l/40123971._SY75_.jpg|62228513] and [b:The Bravest Thing|48408523|The Bravest Thing|Laura Lascarso|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1570743785l/48408523._SY75_.jpg|55643895]. They are the best Lgbtq YA books ever.
Or main MCs are Henri and Orlando – These two are very well developed characters. We get to know them from a young age and grow with them. There is a special connection when you get to grow with the characters. Henri and Orlando are very intriguing, fresh and are so interesting that you can’t help but root and fall in love with them from the beginning of the story.
The side characters are also well developed. I am hoping in the near future we get to read some of their stories.
The story itself flows so well from page one. The world building is so beautiful, interesting and so well done. Laura didn’t leave anything to chance. I was left mesmerized by this world of Mortals and Divines. I will not go into details because I don’t want to give anything about the plot away, it is better to go in blind and be mesmerized by this beautiful world that Laura has created.
The best part of this book is the relationship. GAAAAAHHH! Talk about the slowest of the slowest burns. It feels so good. It is so romantic, the old fashioned kind that i love so much. Henri and Orlando have chemistry that is off the pages. I could feel it burn through me. I was tingly every time they were on page together. It was oozing sexual tension.
The sex, LAAAAAWD Father….. Laura decided to let her kinky side out to play. The sex in this book does not shy away from any sex space.. We get the things plus money shot after money shot. So - so worth it. Double GAAAAAAAHHH!!!!
“Yes,” you rasped and spread your cheeks wide to make an offering of yourself. I took one of your knees over my shoulder again and dragged you all the way to the edge of the table, so that my angle was most advantageous.
Let’s not forget the other best part. The humor! I was Loling so hard my stomach almost didn’t survive. Gaaaahhhhh!!!!
Book of Orlando is everything. It is an enchanting story, i was seduced to fall in with the story from the beginning. I laughed, I cried, I was heartbroken, I loved, I fell in love and everything in between. Orlando, Henri and everyone in this book, except some characters.....
Highly Recommended.
Arc generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
shelbyraew's review
5.0
When I originally read this book I really enjoyed it and gave it 5 stars. I didn't write a review originally because I hadn't started reviewing books yet, I was just using good reads to track my books.
Recently I started a re-read in order to continue on and finish the trilogy and I am DNF-ing my re-read. I was reading reviews before I started my re-read and I came across a review pointing out this quote.
He's nurtured you from a very young age, tended to you lovingly over the years, and now that you've reached maturity, he wishes to reap the fruits of his labor. There may be billions of humans on this earth, but you're the one he's cultivated.
Now idk if I just didn't notice the first time or if it was because it was pointed out to me this time, but this made me fell uncomfy. The book does walk that very fine line because Henri meets Orlando when he is 5 and he leaves and comes back when Orlando is 16. Now nothing sexual happens before Orlando is 18 but looking at it from this point of view just kinda stained the whole book for me. I tried finish it but tbh continuing to read it just felt weird.
I am going to keep it at 5 stars because I really did enjoy this when I read it the first time, but I am not finishing my re-read and I will not be continuing on with the trilogy. I think it is good for what it is but it is not for everyone.
Recently I started a re-read in order to continue on and finish the trilogy and I am DNF-ing my re-read. I was reading reviews before I started my re-read and I came across a review pointing out this quote.
He's nurtured you from a very young age, tended to you lovingly over the years, and now that you've reached maturity, he wishes to reap the fruits of his labor. There may be billions of humans on this earth, but you're the one he's cultivated.
Now idk if I just didn't notice the first time or if it was because it was pointed out to me this time, but this made me fell uncomfy. The book does walk that very fine line because Henri meets Orlando when he is 5 and he leaves and comes back when Orlando is 16. Now nothing sexual happens before Orlando is 18 but looking at it from this point of view just kinda stained the whole book for me. I tried finish it but tbh continuing to read it just felt weird.
I am going to keep it at 5 stars because I really did enjoy this when I read it the first time, but I am not finishing my re-read and I will not be continuing on with the trilogy. I think it is good for what it is but it is not for everyone.
tabithaanne8's review
3.0
3.5 stars (when will Good Reads give us half stars? Ratings are so much more nuanced than simple whole numbers!)
I read this book on recommendation from someone whose own work would never have me question their taste in good writing - and this was no exception.
I read this book on recommendation from someone whose own work would never have me question their taste in good writing - and this was no exception.