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Axios
Eryx: A Spartan Tale
My father once told me, above all else...
Live and die for Sparta.
Honor. Loyalty. Duty. These were the things that mattered most.
And then Axios came into my life, teaching me other lessons: humility, brotherhood... love.
There were moments when the brutal training stripped me of my humanity, where it turned me into a mindless beast of flesh and muscle set to destroy everything in my way. But then Axios stood in my way, ever vigilant, never failing to bring me back to myself.
Love had no place in Sparta, they said. It made you weak.
So why did I feel stronger with him by my side?
*Eryx: A Spartan Tale is a 149k word historical gay fiction featuring a love story between Spartan warriors. Although told in an alternate point of view of the events in Axios, it includes extended scenes and more content. It can be read as a complete standalone.*
Live and die for Sparta.
Honor. Loyalty. Duty. These were the things that mattered most.
And then Axios came into my life, teaching me other lessons: humility, brotherhood... love.
There were moments when the brutal training stripped me of my humanity, where it turned me into a mindless beast of flesh and muscle set to destroy everything in my way. But then Axios stood in my way, ever vigilant, never failing to bring me back to myself.
Love had no place in Sparta, they said. It made you weak.
So why did I feel stronger with him by my side?
*Eryx: A Spartan Tale is a 149k word historical gay fiction featuring a love story between Spartan warriors. Although told in an alternate point of view of the events in Axios, it includes extended scenes and more content. It can be read as a complete standalone.*
437 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 6, 2020
About the author
Jaclyn Osborn
49 books1,624 followersAs an avid reader and coffee addict, Jaclyn Osborn can always be found with either a book in her hand or one being written on her laptop. The men in her stories mean the world to her, and she's thankful for each day she's able to do this as a career.
She writes M/M romance across all genres and worlds, including contemporary, historical, fantasy, and paranormal.
She writes M/M romance across all genres and worlds, including contemporary, historical, fantasy, and paranormal.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
May 15, 2024
WHY DO I KEEP DOING THIS TO MYSELF???!!!! I knew it was coming. I was prepared for it and my heart was still ripped out and stomped on.
I loved reading Eryx perspective. I knew he was different from Axios I just didn't know how much until I was reading his inner monologue. I was scared that this would be too similar to the first book but it wasnt. I mean it was similar in the beginning but its starts to get different when Eryx grows a bit distant. I love Theon, Quill, Haden and Leanna I just wish they all had a happy ending.
_________
Pre Read:
You guys don’t know how excited I am to read this. I get to re-read one of my favourite book but from Eryx’s perspective. I am so freaking excited 😆 I hope you guys are having an amazing week my loves 🫶🏻🥰
I loved reading Eryx perspective. I knew he was different from Axios I just didn't know how much until I was reading his inner monologue. I was scared that this would be too similar to the first book but it wasnt. I mean it was similar in the beginning but its starts to get different when Eryx grows a bit distant. I love Theon, Quill, Haden and Leanna I just wish they all had a happy ending.
_________
Pre Read:
You guys don’t know how excited I am to read this. I get to re-read one of my favourite book but from Eryx’s perspective. I am so freaking excited 😆 I hope you guys are having an amazing week my loves 🫶🏻🥰
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 7, 2021
4.75 stars
Ugh it was worth the tears to reread Eryx's POV!
It's been years since I read Axios and I still cried in the end.
It's not a spoiler that this book, and Axios, don't have an HEA.
Both our MCs die in the end...
But to follow their relationship from the moment they met as kids and growing up with them as their feelings shift from friends and comrades to lovers and soulmates is as epic as their love story.
More than 16 years of them together, training, hurting, in love and besotted.
This book is an experience and it's hard to read while simultaneously be unputdownable.
I know that some may not like to read it because it's an almost exact replica of Axios, but the ending of this one made all the difference for me. they both still die... but we get a glimpse of more. Their afterlife and how life moved on after their death... It was beautiful.
Now as for Adam Stubbs' narration... All I can say is that it was PHENOMENAL.
The tones, voices, inflections, emotions... Wow! What a performance that was. He raised this book to a higher level for sure.
The only reason I shaved off a quarter of a star was Axios and the King's relationship. For me, the effect the king had on Axios was too much and not really understandable.
Ugh it was worth the tears to reread Eryx's POV!
It's been years since I read Axios and I still cried in the end.
It's not a spoiler that this book, and Axios, don't have an HEA.
Both our MCs die in the end...
But to follow their relationship from the moment they met as kids and growing up with them as their feelings shift from friends and comrades to lovers and soulmates is as epic as their love story.
More than 16 years of them together, training, hurting, in love and besotted.
This book is an experience and it's hard to read while simultaneously be unputdownable.
I know that some may not like to read it because it's an almost exact replica of Axios, but the ending of this one made all the difference for me. they both still die... but we get a glimpse of more. Their afterlife and how life moved on after their death... It was beautiful.
Now as for Adam Stubbs' narration... All I can say is that it was PHENOMENAL.
The tones, voices, inflections, emotions... Wow! What a performance that was. He raised this book to a higher level for sure.
The only reason I shaved off a quarter of a star was Axios and the King's relationship. For me, the effect the king had on Axios was too much and not really understandable.
July 5, 2021
NOTHING NEW IN OLD SPARTA...
This is the same exact story as in the previous book, "Axios", simply narrated from Eryx's point of view... well, in theory. Quite disappointing as the chronology and the succession of events, and dialogues, are a perfect copy/paste from the first book. There's nothing new, nothing that we didn't guess in book 1. I didn't feel the story being told from someone else's point of view either. This is not how it should have been written, but I am here to criticize the books I read, not to teach authors the basics of writing. It was developed with the same wording, the same anecdotes, the same scenes, the same thoughts, the same feelings, the same suppositions... at the same sauce, hence the deserved rating.
No sweat = No reward!
I only read a third of it. I dropped it when I understood the mascarade. I loved the first book and didn't want to ruin my love for it with this one. Writing a book from another person's POV is harder than writing it a first time. As much as the author impressed me with the first book, I am totally dejected with this one because she chose the easiest way out. Honestly, given the result, it was totally unnecessary to write it.... and I am not some fake, author-friendly critic, I do always call a spade a spade. It's not worth the money you'd put on it as the only thing that's different is the cover, and I don't like it either. It doesn't equal Axios'.
I rated 4 stars the first book. Unfortunately, this one isn't worth half the rating. It's a waste of time and money for the reader; it's pointless to spend time and energy on something that doesn't bring anything new... if not new adventures, new emotions would have made a difference. As for the author, I think she didn't really waste time on it. Changing names and pronouns, and proceeding to a few alterations here and there, to make it look as if it were different, can't fool anyone. With the magic of writing applications, it can be done in days.
The saddest is that a failed sequel does always harm a fantastic prequel. I will never see Axios the same ever again.
This is the same exact story as in the previous book, "Axios", simply narrated from Eryx's point of view... well, in theory. Quite disappointing as the chronology and the succession of events, and dialogues, are a perfect copy/paste from the first book. There's nothing new, nothing that we didn't guess in book 1. I didn't feel the story being told from someone else's point of view either. This is not how it should have been written, but I am here to criticize the books I read, not to teach authors the basics of writing. It was developed with the same wording, the same anecdotes, the same scenes, the same thoughts, the same feelings, the same suppositions... at the same sauce, hence the deserved rating.
No sweat = No reward!
I only read a third of it. I dropped it when I understood the mascarade. I loved the first book and didn't want to ruin my love for it with this one. Writing a book from another person's POV is harder than writing it a first time. As much as the author impressed me with the first book, I am totally dejected with this one because she chose the easiest way out. Honestly, given the result, it was totally unnecessary to write it.... and I am not some fake, author-friendly critic, I do always call a spade a spade. It's not worth the money you'd put on it as the only thing that's different is the cover, and I don't like it either. It doesn't equal Axios'.
I rated 4 stars the first book. Unfortunately, this one isn't worth half the rating. It's a waste of time and money for the reader; it's pointless to spend time and energy on something that doesn't bring anything new... if not new adventures, new emotions would have made a difference. As for the author, I think she didn't really waste time on it. Changing names and pronouns, and proceeding to a few alterations here and there, to make it look as if it were different, can't fool anyone. With the magic of writing applications, it can be done in days.
The saddest is that a failed sequel does always harm a fantastic prequel. I will never see Axios the same ever again.
February 19, 2020
Jenn Reviewed for Diverse Reader
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
I admit that I was thrilled when Jaclyn Osborn announced she’d be writing a follow up to her incredible novel, Axios. This time we get Eryx, the epic love story told from Eryx’s POV with added content.
Eryx and Axios’s story is a love story for the ages, one that can only be described as EPIC! Axios and Eryx are born as Spartans and have their whole future planned for them from birth. They are meant to be warriors for Sparta and if they’re lucky…they’ll die an honorable death fighting for their home, for their people. This is a story of strong warriors who are brave enough to die for Sparta, but strong enough to want to live for each other.
If you read Axios, you may think you know this story already, but you don’t…not all of it. As we see the world through Eryx’s eyes and heart, we get something completely new and still as tragically beautiful as Axios’s version. Eryx is a Spartan through and through, he seems to live for duty, for training, to serve his purpose. But there is so much more to Eryx, there is something more important than duty and war…there is Axios.
Now is where I tell you that I can’t say anything more about the book itself because of spoilers. So I will tell you how this book made me feel. Eryx’s love for Axios is so incredibly pure, so big that I’m not sure how he carries it all in his heart. I was in tears so many times while reading this, its beauty overwhelmed me at times. Seeing Eryx from the boy we meet to the man he becomes is an eye opening journey. I understand his loyalty, his work ethic, his belief in their way of life so clearly now. The bonds Eryx forms with his friends, his teachers, and some of the other warriors is so fun to watch. Seeing the very serious warrior tease and play shows us a whole new side to him and I found myself smiling at seeing joy from this boy and from the man he becomes.
But nothing and I mean nothing comes close to seeing the love he has for Axios. Each conversation, each small touch, and every stolen moment together feeds Eryx’s soul and touched my heart so completely. I found myself no longer thinking of Eryx as a warrior, but as a warrior poet. Strong and deadly on the outside with an inner strength and a poet’s heart. I didn’t think I could love this story more than I already did, but I was wrong. Reading this book was a joy and a privilege. The amount of work Jaclyn Osborn put into this book has to have been insane. Matching timelines, conversations and so many little descriptions…it’s all so flawless. This book reads like the author’s love story to her warriors, you feel how beloved these characters all are to her. When you decide to go back and do something more to a story as cherished as this one, it has to be frightening endeavor. Jaclyn slayed this book, she gives us everything we could wish for and so much more. This book is a perfect example of what happens when you put together an incredible determination to get it right and pure talent. I cannot shout my recommendation for Eryx: A Spartan Tale loud enough.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
I admit that I was thrilled when Jaclyn Osborn announced she’d be writing a follow up to her incredible novel, Axios. This time we get Eryx, the epic love story told from Eryx’s POV with added content.
Eryx and Axios’s story is a love story for the ages, one that can only be described as EPIC! Axios and Eryx are born as Spartans and have their whole future planned for them from birth. They are meant to be warriors for Sparta and if they’re lucky…they’ll die an honorable death fighting for their home, for their people. This is a story of strong warriors who are brave enough to die for Sparta, but strong enough to want to live for each other.
If you read Axios, you may think you know this story already, but you don’t…not all of it. As we see the world through Eryx’s eyes and heart, we get something completely new and still as tragically beautiful as Axios’s version. Eryx is a Spartan through and through, he seems to live for duty, for training, to serve his purpose. But there is so much more to Eryx, there is something more important than duty and war…there is Axios.
Now is where I tell you that I can’t say anything more about the book itself because of spoilers. So I will tell you how this book made me feel. Eryx’s love for Axios is so incredibly pure, so big that I’m not sure how he carries it all in his heart. I was in tears so many times while reading this, its beauty overwhelmed me at times. Seeing Eryx from the boy we meet to the man he becomes is an eye opening journey. I understand his loyalty, his work ethic, his belief in their way of life so clearly now. The bonds Eryx forms with his friends, his teachers, and some of the other warriors is so fun to watch. Seeing the very serious warrior tease and play shows us a whole new side to him and I found myself smiling at seeing joy from this boy and from the man he becomes.
But nothing and I mean nothing comes close to seeing the love he has for Axios. Each conversation, each small touch, and every stolen moment together feeds Eryx’s soul and touched my heart so completely. I found myself no longer thinking of Eryx as a warrior, but as a warrior poet. Strong and deadly on the outside with an inner strength and a poet’s heart. I didn’t think I could love this story more than I already did, but I was wrong. Reading this book was a joy and a privilege. The amount of work Jaclyn Osborn put into this book has to have been insane. Matching timelines, conversations and so many little descriptions…it’s all so flawless. This book reads like the author’s love story to her warriors, you feel how beloved these characters all are to her. When you decide to go back and do something more to a story as cherished as this one, it has to be frightening endeavor. Jaclyn slayed this book, she gives us everything we could wish for and so much more. This book is a perfect example of what happens when you put together an incredible determination to get it right and pure talent. I cannot shout my recommendation for Eryx: A Spartan Tale loud enough.
March 4, 2024
second read: this is the greatest book i have and will ever know.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
first read: the last time i read a book that was the same story, different povs was twilight/midnight sun. only this (axios/eryx) was better, and gayer. the last time i read anything to do with greek history was the song of achilles. only this was better, so much better.
i don't know if i'll be able to accurately put my thoughts and feeling into words, so bear with me while i try.
i bought axios months ago after i saw someone on booksta (so sorry i don't remember who) say that it's better than the song of achilles. so obvi i had to check. except it just sat on my tbr pile because i just didn't have it in me. then i found out there is a companion novel thats the exact same story, but told for the pov of the love interest in axios, eryx. i was sold!
i decided to read along with the audiobook because my brain is riding the stuggle bus presently. and oh man, i'm so glad i did!!! not only was axios AMAZING, but the audiobook aided in painting the whole picture the author created. I FELL IN LOVE INSTANTLY. axios and eryx's very quickly, very easily have become my favorite bookish couple of all time. their friendship, their love is the greatest love the universe has ever known. the author has crafted such rich characters within ancient greek's sparta. not only are axios and eryx rarefied within their depths, each side character stole my heart too. by the end of this book i was CRYING! omg i don't think i cried this hard since reading jordon greene's a mark on my soul. axios was pure perfection!
so i decided to jump right into eryx pov and read the entire story again from his pov. and, y'all, IT'S EVEN BETTER THAN AXIOS. like, i didn't know it could just keep on getting better, but IT DID. i was not able to contain myself, and i still can't.
eryx's pov gave us the same story, as stated, but it also gave us so much more than was told in axios. eryx is about 100 pages longer, released 3ish years after axios was released. AND IT WAS EVERYTHING! eryx gave you so many amazing little surprises. especially at the end. holy shit the way i CRIED again! i couldn't have been happier.
prepare for these two books/characters to become my entire personality. if ANYONE asks me for a book rec, i will mention these first. always. before the scottish boy, before green creek or the tarot card sequence. and y'all KNOW how i feel about those books. eryx is my favorite book of all time. nothing can compare! the love, the character arcs, the story, the war/fighting, the training, the sex (OOF!!), even the ending was so sad and heartbreaking, but still beautiful and satisfying. everything about eryx and axios was just... IT'S SO AMAZING!
anyway, i'm obsessed. i'm so glad i finally read/listened to them. please, PLEASE, PLEASEEEE do yourself the great of favors and read these books! even if you don't want to read them both, just read eryx. i just know you'll fall in love the way i did. if you love m/m historical romance books, then READ THIS BOOK. if you loved the song of achilles, READ THIS BOOK. you won't regret it. i promise you won't.
it's truly the greatest book(s) i've ever known.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
first read: the last time i read a book that was the same story, different povs was twilight/midnight sun. only this (axios/eryx) was better, and gayer. the last time i read anything to do with greek history was the song of achilles. only this was better, so much better.
i don't know if i'll be able to accurately put my thoughts and feeling into words, so bear with me while i try.
i bought axios months ago after i saw someone on booksta (so sorry i don't remember who) say that it's better than the song of achilles. so obvi i had to check. except it just sat on my tbr pile because i just didn't have it in me. then i found out there is a companion novel thats the exact same story, but told for the pov of the love interest in axios, eryx. i was sold!
i decided to read along with the audiobook because my brain is riding the stuggle bus presently. and oh man, i'm so glad i did!!! not only was axios AMAZING, but the audiobook aided in painting the whole picture the author created. I FELL IN LOVE INSTANTLY. axios and eryx's very quickly, very easily have become my favorite bookish couple of all time. their friendship, their love is the greatest love the universe has ever known. the author has crafted such rich characters within ancient greek's sparta. not only are axios and eryx rarefied within their depths, each side character stole my heart too. by the end of this book i was CRYING! omg i don't think i cried this hard since reading jordon greene's a mark on my soul. axios was pure perfection!
so i decided to jump right into eryx pov and read the entire story again from his pov. and, y'all, IT'S EVEN BETTER THAN AXIOS. like, i didn't know it could just keep on getting better, but IT DID. i was not able to contain myself, and i still can't.
eryx's pov gave us the same story, as stated, but it also gave us so much more than was told in axios. eryx is about 100 pages longer, released 3ish years after axios was released. AND IT WAS EVERYTHING! eryx gave you so many amazing little surprises. especially at the end. holy shit the way i CRIED again! i couldn't have been happier.
prepare for these two books/characters to become my entire personality. if ANYONE asks me for a book rec, i will mention these first. always. before the scottish boy, before green creek or the tarot card sequence. and y'all KNOW how i feel about those books. eryx is my favorite book of all time. nothing can compare! the love, the character arcs, the story, the war/fighting, the training, the sex (OOF!!), even the ending was so sad and heartbreaking, but still beautiful and satisfying. everything about eryx and axios was just... IT'S SO AMAZING!
anyway, i'm obsessed. i'm so glad i finally read/listened to them. please, PLEASE, PLEASEEEE do yourself the great of favors and read these books! even if you don't want to read them both, just read eryx. i just know you'll fall in love the way i did. if you love m/m historical romance books, then READ THIS BOOK. if you loved the song of achilles, READ THIS BOOK. you won't regret it. i promise you won't.
it's truly the greatest book(s) i've ever known.
July 4, 2022
Siendo sincera, está bilogia me ha decepcionado bastante.
Esperaba otro tipo de relación entre ellos, no tanta fresa ni tan rápido, algo más de desarrollo.
Odio el instantlove que es lo que pasa aquí, quitandole mucho las novelas.
Esperaba otro tipo de relación entre ellos, no tanta fresa ni tan rápido, algo más de desarrollo.
Odio el instantlove que es lo que pasa aquí, quitandole mucho las novelas.
February 12, 2020
I was a bit worried this book would be too similar to its predecessor and yes, it was. BUT, it honestly works. At least in my mind it did.
The beginning is a bit too similar to the first book but once we get to the moments where Eryx was distant, MAN, that's when the story begins.
Eryx's mind is such a complex place. He's managed to hide his feelings behind a wall of indifference so it's a lot of fun to actually hear his thoughts.
In his mind, he tells Axios he loves him every time he looks at him. In his mind he calls Axios his raven. In his mind, he's equally, if not more insecure than Axios was in the relationship.
"I dreamed of a raven soaring above the treetops, its black wings catching the sun. I ran after it, cutting through the tall grass in the valley during my pursuit. The bird flew higher, in my sight but out of my reach. Do not leave me, I begged of the raven. But then it was gone."
Like, man! Eryx's perspective was a joy to read and
It did make me cry again so, great work, great writing, great characters. Axios & Eryx, along with, Quill, Theon, Haden and Leanna all have a place in my heart.
“My every sunrise and every sunset are yours"
The beginning is a bit too similar to the first book but once we get to the moments where Eryx was distant, MAN, that's when the story begins.
Eryx's mind is such a complex place. He's managed to hide his feelings behind a wall of indifference so it's a lot of fun to actually hear his thoughts.
In his mind, he tells Axios he loves him every time he looks at him. In his mind he calls Axios his raven. In his mind, he's equally, if not more insecure than Axios was in the relationship.
"I dreamed of a raven soaring above the treetops, its black wings catching the sun. I ran after it, cutting through the tall grass in the valley during my pursuit. The bird flew higher, in my sight but out of my reach. Do not leave me, I begged of the raven. But then it was gone."
Like, man! Eryx's perspective was a joy to read and
It did make me cry again so, great work, great writing, great characters. Axios & Eryx, along with, Quill, Theon, Haden and Leanna all have a place in my heart.
“My every sunrise and every sunset are yours"
Want to read
February 29, 20202/29/20 Currently on sale for 99c via Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B084D8F11V/...
February 6, 2020
Eryx
This book is heartbreaking and beautiful. I am so glad that Jaclyn wrote this book from Eryx point of view. We all get to see a whole new side of this beautiful man. I wish I could give these guys more than five stars. I wish I could give them all the stars in the sky
Eryx is the true meaning of a Spartan Warrior. He is devoted, strong, brother, determined, and a whole lot more. I mean I could sit here for days explaining him. What I left out is he is tender, kind, protector, lover, and more. These words describe him when it comes to Axios. We see this whole other side of him with thoughts on their relationship, heart break, and war.
In those moments had that me in hysterics, it brought me comfort to know he was feeling the same fears and sadness I was feeling.
Eryx and Axios will forever be my all time favorite couple and books ever. I really have a hard time thinking anyone will bury deeper into my heart than them and their brothers. The brotherhood they developed with Haden, Quill, and Theon is so special and we got to know a few characters even more. It was a wonderful addition to the book and I loved the additional content added in this book
Jaclyn has become an all time favorite author of mine. I am at the point that I don’t need summaries/blurbs/teasers because if she wrote it I will gladly go into it blindly because it will be a five star book.
This book is heartbreaking and beautiful. I am so glad that Jaclyn wrote this book from Eryx point of view. We all get to see a whole new side of this beautiful man. I wish I could give these guys more than five stars. I wish I could give them all the stars in the sky
Eryx is the true meaning of a Spartan Warrior. He is devoted, strong, brother, determined, and a whole lot more. I mean I could sit here for days explaining him. What I left out is he is tender, kind, protector, lover, and more. These words describe him when it comes to Axios. We see this whole other side of him with thoughts on their relationship, heart break, and war.
In those moments had that me in hysterics, it brought me comfort to know he was feeling the same fears and sadness I was feeling.
Eryx and Axios will forever be my all time favorite couple and books ever. I really have a hard time thinking anyone will bury deeper into my heart than them and their brothers. The brotherhood they developed with Haden, Quill, and Theon is so special and we got to know a few characters even more. It was a wonderful addition to the book and I loved the additional content added in this book
Jaclyn has become an all time favorite author of mine. I am at the point that I don’t need summaries/blurbs/teasers because if she wrote it I will gladly go into it blindly because it will be a five star book.
June 10, 2024
Ouch 🥲😭
June 16, 2024
”Ax,” I whispered, feeling like I was about to shatter into a million pieces. “In all the ages, there has never been a love like ours. No one has ever loved another as I have loved you. If we fall today, my soul will find yours. For I am eternally yours… in this life and the next.”
This is the best book I’ve ever read. Trying to wrap my head around my emotions. I will say that getting Eryx POV was a complete game changer. I’ve never read someone who is more in love. Idk. I don’t have thoughts. I have tears. And a very full heart.
Read the freaking series. It’s f*cking amazing.
This is the best book I’ve ever read. Trying to wrap my head around my emotions. I will say that getting Eryx POV was a complete game changer. I’ve never read someone who is more in love. Idk. I don’t have thoughts. I have tears. And a very full heart.
Read the freaking series. It’s f*cking amazing.
February 6, 2020
Eryx
I want to start by saying I loved Axios so much and when I heard there was to be a book from Eryx's point of view I was so excited but not sure my poor heart could stand it. After reading it and crying my eyes out and snotting everywhere I will just say they are the same and yet different and the best books I have ever read.
I want to start by saying I loved Axios so much and when I heard there was to be a book from Eryx's point of view I was so excited but not sure my poor heart could stand it. After reading it and crying my eyes out and snotting everywhere I will just say they are the same and yet different and the best books I have ever read.
March 23, 2020
Four stars for their love alone!!
This review is basically going to be quotes of Eryx confessing his undying love to the soul mate he’s had since he was TEN. My heart😭
“You are my heart,” I confessed, and the weight of the words nearly crushed me. But Axios kept me strong.”
Eryx is about two boys who fall in love amid the chaos of Sparta. One who dreams of becoming the ultimate Spartan warrior and the other who wants nothing more than to run away. Yet they both decide to stay together through it all.
He was the moon in my sky and the blood in my veins. I belonged to him.
The ending ripped out my heart but, I’m happy the author added an extra peace in comparison to the first book, Axios- same story told from Axios’s pov- it showed they do actually get their happy ending, even if it was a unconventional one.
Axios was my other half, and finally, my soul could breathe again
In addition to Eryx and Axios, the bond between their friends- Haden, Quil and Theon- was also delightful to see. Even in war they do their best to left everyone’s spirits and though the book was difficult to read at times, their group brought the humour and lightness,the book sometimes needed.
Anyways - this totally would have been five stars if not for a certain King and a love that made no sense.
This review is basically going to be quotes of Eryx confessing his undying love to the soul mate he’s had since he was TEN. My heart😭
“You are my heart,” I confessed, and the weight of the words nearly crushed me. But Axios kept me strong.”
Eryx is about two boys who fall in love amid the chaos of Sparta. One who dreams of becoming the ultimate Spartan warrior and the other who wants nothing more than to run away. Yet they both decide to stay together through it all.
He was the moon in my sky and the blood in my veins. I belonged to him.
The ending ripped out my heart but, I’m happy the author added an extra peace in comparison to the first book, Axios- same story told from Axios’s pov- it showed they do actually get their happy ending, even if it was a unconventional one.
Axios was my other half, and finally, my soul could breathe again
In addition to Eryx and Axios, the bond between their friends- Haden, Quil and Theon- was also delightful to see. Even in war they do their best to left everyone’s spirits and though the book was difficult to read at times, their group brought the humour and lightness,the book sometimes needed.
Anyways - this totally would have been five stars if not for a certain King and a love that made no sense.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 17, 2020
This is a sweeping epic spanning nearly 30 years, set in ancient Greece. I am not normally one for historicals, but I read Axios based on reviews by people I trust and loved it. This is the same story, but told from the perspective of Eryx. And although it is the same story, it is a wholly different story.
This book follows Axios and Eryx from the time they were young boys and first sent off to the Spartan version of boot camp until their last battle.
In the first book, we got the story from Axios' perspective. He was a dreamer, a lover, never one for fighting and war. He did his duty to Sparta but he questioned it all of the time. He hated it.
Now we get to hear directly from Eryx. His mother died in childbirth, his father took his own life in shame for abandoning the army (really the poor man has serious PTSD). Eryx couldn't wait to become a warrior. He knew he sole purpose in life was to fight for and possibly die for Sparta. And he looked forward to it.
Axios and Eryx really were like Yin and Yang. Two halves of a whole that balanced each other out. Whereas Eryx pushed Axios to be the warrior he needed to be, Axios taught Eryx that there were other things in life- friendship and love. Over the years they became inseparable, and filled out their circle with a few more boys they called their brothers.
As the book is very long and spans quite a long time, the first half is them growing and training. They begin discovering their feelings for each other when they reach their teenage years. It was so innocent and beautiful in the middle of this horrible training.
Once they reach the age to go to battle, they are still inseparable. Everyone knows that they are together and really no one discourages it. The battle scenes are brutal and horrific. This is not something for the weak hearted. Although you can skim over.
Get the tissues. A box of tissues. I convinced myself that I wouldn't cry this time because I cried during Axios and I knew what would happen. HA! That was a big lie I told myself as I sobbed. More than once. Ok, a lot.
The entire love story is just beautiful. How they lived, trained, fought, was heart breaking. And as vicious as it was, in real life it was probably a lot worse.
If you read Axios, read this book. If you didn't read Axios, read this then go back and read Axios. Or read Axios and then this. The order doesn't matter and you don't have to read both. But you'll want to.
This book follows Axios and Eryx from the time they were young boys and first sent off to the Spartan version of boot camp until their last battle.
In the first book, we got the story from Axios' perspective. He was a dreamer, a lover, never one for fighting and war. He did his duty to Sparta but he questioned it all of the time. He hated it.
Now we get to hear directly from Eryx. His mother died in childbirth, his father took his own life in shame for abandoning the army (really the poor man has serious PTSD). Eryx couldn't wait to become a warrior. He knew he sole purpose in life was to fight for and possibly die for Sparta. And he looked forward to it.
Axios and Eryx really were like Yin and Yang. Two halves of a whole that balanced each other out. Whereas Eryx pushed Axios to be the warrior he needed to be, Axios taught Eryx that there were other things in life- friendship and love. Over the years they became inseparable, and filled out their circle with a few more boys they called their brothers.
As the book is very long and spans quite a long time, the first half is them growing and training. They begin discovering their feelings for each other when they reach their teenage years. It was so innocent and beautiful in the middle of this horrible training.
Once they reach the age to go to battle, they are still inseparable. Everyone knows that they are together and really no one discourages it. The battle scenes are brutal and horrific. This is not something for the weak hearted. Although you can skim over.
Get the tissues. A box of tissues. I convinced myself that I wouldn't cry this time because I cried during Axios and I knew what would happen. HA! That was a big lie I told myself as I sobbed. More than once. Ok, a lot.
The entire love story is just beautiful. How they lived, trained, fought, was heart breaking. And as vicious as it was, in real life it was probably a lot worse.
If you read Axios, read this book. If you didn't read Axios, read this then go back and read Axios. Or read Axios and then this. The order doesn't matter and you don't have to read both. But you'll want to.
June 12, 2024
Eryx • Axios…♾️.
….
“Axios came into my life like a star that’d fallen from the night sky: beautiful amongst the chaos.”
.
“I could live a million different lifetimes and I’d still choose him in every single one.”
….
One gave strength and believe to build a protecting shield inside to survive. The other with his gentle touch and mind pushed one’s shield aside and gave back humanity and everything that’s good. It was an honor to be in Eryx’s head. Down bad. Down bad. Beautiful soul.
I will never move on from them. I left my heart by their side. The sky has no limit. The sky is theirs.
⭐️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️.
….
Tony Ann - ICARUS
.
SYML - How I Got Home
….
“Better to harden my heart against the world and everything residing within it.” // “The very first time I laid eyes on him, it was as if the earth shifted beneath me. One moment, I was alone—numb to the world and everything in it—and then there he was, breathing life back into me.” // “I had a feeling I’d never leave.” // “I’d found myself observing him a bit longer than necessary, staring at the nearly imperceptible patch of freckles on his cheeks…” // “This boy… this raven-haired boy with burning eyes of amber… would be my downfall.” // “I liked feeling his heart beat against mine. Liked the tickle of his breath on my skin.” // “He found so many things beautiful, and yet, the only beauty I saw was the boy staring back at me right then.” // “It took more strength to continue fighting than to surrender to another’s way of thinking.” // “Where have you gone, my raven?” // “I stare at you the most of all, storing every detail of you to memory. You anchor me to this earth and keep me fighting. You keep me strong.” // “Axios was my other half, and finally, my soul could breathe again.” // “He was the moon in my sky and the blood in my veins. I belonged to him.” // “I thought the stars seemed like a beautiful place to rest…” // “I would give my life for yours.” // “I knew he saw the answer in my eyes. That I would always choose him first.” // “Tell me the story of the moon…” // “About time you got here…” …
….
….
“Axios came into my life like a star that’d fallen from the night sky: beautiful amongst the chaos.”
.
“I could live a million different lifetimes and I’d still choose him in every single one.”
….
One gave strength and believe to build a protecting shield inside to survive. The other with his gentle touch and mind pushed one’s shield aside and gave back humanity and everything that’s good. It was an honor to be in Eryx’s head. Down bad. Down bad. Beautiful soul.
I will never move on from them. I left my heart by their side. The sky has no limit. The sky is theirs.
⭐️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️.
….
Tony Ann - ICARUS
.
SYML - How I Got Home
….
“Better to harden my heart against the world and everything residing within it.” // “The very first time I laid eyes on him, it was as if the earth shifted beneath me. One moment, I was alone—numb to the world and everything in it—and then there he was, breathing life back into me.” // “I had a feeling I’d never leave.” // “I’d found myself observing him a bit longer than necessary, staring at the nearly imperceptible patch of freckles on his cheeks…” // “This boy… this raven-haired boy with burning eyes of amber… would be my downfall.” // “I liked feeling his heart beat against mine. Liked the tickle of his breath on my skin.” // “He found so many things beautiful, and yet, the only beauty I saw was the boy staring back at me right then.” // “It took more strength to continue fighting than to surrender to another’s way of thinking.” // “Where have you gone, my raven?” // “I stare at you the most of all, storing every detail of you to memory. You anchor me to this earth and keep me fighting. You keep me strong.” // “Axios was my other half, and finally, my soul could breathe again.” // “He was the moon in my sky and the blood in my veins. I belonged to him.” // “I thought the stars seemed like a beautiful place to rest…” // “I would give my life for yours.” // “I knew he saw the answer in my eyes. That I would always choose him first.” // “Tell me the story of the moon…” // “About time you got here…” …
….
March 10, 2020
I realize that kill or be killed was the basics of Greek life historically, but I could not enjoy the continual physical abuse bestowed on one another, even the bride and groom fight at their wedding, because they are both to prove their strength, one for battle the other for childbirth. Not my kind of book, repetitive, moving at a snails pace, although supposedly each new chapter was two years later, but nothing has changed. I decided at 46% that I was unwilling to spend anymore time with something that I was getting no enjoyment from.
October 18, 2021
What a beautiful cover image.
I told myself I wouldn't cry again...but I did. Even though I knew what was coming it still got to me.
It was nice to learn more about Eryx as he was usually closed-off and hard to read. We got to see him interact with Paris/Garan. It was so cute how he asked them how to "please" a man ;D
I wondered why Eryx never bottomed, but I guess I'll never know.
Axios and Eryx will stay with me for a long time.
I told myself I wouldn't cry again...but I did. Even though I knew what was coming it still got to me.
It was nice to learn more about Eryx as he was usually closed-off and hard to read. We got to see him interact with Paris/Garan. It was so cute how he asked them how to "please" a man ;D
I wondered why Eryx never bottomed, but I guess I'll never know.
Axios and Eryx will stay with me for a long time.
May 31, 2024
A tremendous story. Even better than Axios which was also amazing. Told from the looks of Eryx is retraces the first book but doesn’t feel repetitive. And the ending will make even the iciest hearts thaw.
August 24, 2024
3 stars
I DNF at 61%. It was too similar to Axios which was fine but it got too boring. Maybe I'll try again in the future
I DNF at 61%. It was too similar to Axios which was fine but it got too boring. Maybe I'll try again in the future
February 7, 2020
Okay. I'll admit that I read the ending first before starting this so I could adequately prepare myself. And yet, it's still not enough. I haven't read Axios, just this one but I think that's enough. It feels like my heart's been wrung like wet laundry and the tears were squeezed out of me. While they were together till the end, I just wished they could have lived in peace and enjoyed their retirement.
March 16, 2020
I knew how this was going to end, and much of what was going to transpire. I've read Axios.
However, I can acknowledge that Eryx is a book that can actually be read as a standalone. Unlike most other books to claim to be the same, you won't feel like you're missing out on anything at all. Yes to experience the full brunt of what the story has to offer, reading Axios would enhance it, but its still not needed. Although I still can't help but recommend Axios too. Just give it a few months or a couple of years to give that one a go too.
There were a few times I damn near cried, but that is the power. It was what pushed me to continue. This book is to be treasured, which is why I not only had to buy the ebook, but a paperback copy as well. Because that is what I do with the books I love. Especially in the vault of my heart.
I will always treasure this Spartan Tale.
However, I can acknowledge that Eryx is a book that can actually be read as a standalone. Unlike most other books to claim to be the same, you won't feel like you're missing out on anything at all. Yes to experience the full brunt of what the story has to offer, reading Axios would enhance it, but its still not needed. Although I still can't help but recommend Axios too. Just give it a few months or a couple of years to give that one a go too.
There were a few times I damn near cried, but that is the power. It was what pushed me to continue. This book is to be treasured, which is why I not only had to buy the ebook, but a paperback copy as well. Because that is what I do with the books I love. Especially in the vault of my heart.
I will always treasure this Spartan Tale.
February 16, 2020
When you think you have a perfect OTP from other stories, then these books (First hit Axios and second, Eryx, though doesnt matter thr order of read) come to your life to destroy everything and take for them the biggest spot in your heart to stay.
I'm cryng a river... and ocean. What a beautiful story despite spartatian violence and cruelty. I'm earning new favorite characters in life and a lot of wonderful love quotes.
I can't bear so much love in my tiny person. Oh lord.
I'm in love.
I'm going to look for these books in physical to cherish them forever. They're perfect reading for February.
“A red rose is lovely, yet the thorns on the stem can make you bleed if you aren’t careful. Same as love. It can be both beautiful and painful, depending on how you treat it.”
Axios.
I'm cryng a river... and ocean. What a beautiful story despite spartatian violence and cruelty. I'm earning new favorite characters in life and a lot of wonderful love quotes.
I can't bear so much love in my tiny person. Oh lord.
I'm in love.
I'm going to look for these books in physical to cherish them forever. They're perfect reading for February.
“A red rose is lovely, yet the thorns on the stem can make you bleed if you aren’t careful. Same as love. It can be both beautiful and painful, depending on how you treat it.”
Axios.
April 15, 2022
i’m losing my fucking mind. shaking, crying, throwing up, sliding down the wall, and passing out. can i give this a 6? why can’t i give this a 6. in case anyone’s wondering: having read the same exact ending of the book but just in the other’s pov does NOT make it hurt any less!!!! i have no words. i will literally think of these men for the rest of my life.
November 1, 2020
Wow, look at that, I started this book on the 2nd of October!!! It has taken a ridiculously long time to finish this book. The Odyssey which is what I was reading before this one also took a long time to finish, so I guess this might be the new norm for me, I take a month to read a book nowadays. Both of these books were like slow going initially and I can't even tell if it is because how life has been lately or if the reading slump I was in, at the beginning of the year is still haunting me, but it was hard to just keep picking up these books day after day. With both the books I hit a certain point where it just became easier to keep going and finish, but this has never been the way I read and I do realise the world has never been this way before for me and work has been hectic, but it is still so strange.
I took 31 days to finish this book and I liked it but I still took too long to finish, I hope I get better with time because this is ridiculous. I read Harry Potter and the Order of Pheonix in 9-11 days and that was probably the longest I have ever taken to read a book before this one and that was back in 2004.
So, yeah that segue aside, it did take me some time to get really into this one and a lot of that had to do with how much I was struggling with the Odyssey, so much so that I told myself I wouldn't pick up another book till I finished that one and that's part of the reason this took so long to finish because I was already reading the Odyssey when I started this one.
"Eryx" is the events of "Axios" from Eryx's POV. So, yes it is pretty much the same story but there is a ton of extra content, not only are we privy to scenes that only Eryx bears witness to but a lot of the scenes that he shares with Axios are also expanded and I just believe there might just be more scenes as well. Also, the sex scenes are more elaborate in this one and it is a hundred and seventy pages longer, so yes there is just more of the book to read. Though a lot of this extra content is towards the end and since I read the latter two-thirds of this book in the last five days, it is just more interesting once you are through the beginning.
I was supposed to start "Eryx" shortly after "Axios' but that didn't happen and it took about a fortnight to get to it and then a month to finish it (you can tell I am never getting over that), but strangely when I started it I couldn't remember how "Axios" ended. When I did approach the end of "Eryx", I ended up remembering a lot more about how the book would end but prior to that, it was weird because I just didn't know if they lived or died at the end. So, that made this a little bit more intriguing because I knew these characters and I knew how their story went but I didn't know how it ended.
"Eryx" starts off with a prologue that immediately captured my attention but then the book starts off and a lot of the earlier chapters are just the same events from Eryx's POV not that they didn't change with the fact that we were now looking at these events from Eryx's perspective but it still wasn't anything different than what you could glean on your own.
Things really start to get going once we get to the topic of slavery because it is easy to love Axios throughout that whole situation but given Eryx's views I didn't know if I would still be able to like let alone love him once we got to that same point in the story. I was particularly scared of how the scene in why Eryx kills for the first time would go especially given the fact that Eryx doesn't hold the same views as Axios regarding slavery. But, the author made a very good decision with how that scene was framed and handled, it was a make or break point for me and I am glad with the way it actually turned out.
I know I am pushing modern morality on a time that was very different but the slavery part of this book had started making me uncomfortable especially since I knew what was coming. Once the story has them get together that is when things get easier and more elaborate.
There is just more of Axios and Eryx and Eryx is so damn passionate like I can't get over just how much he loves Axios and after that point, I wanted to read this story and see where it would lead. I loved the ending and I still find myself wondering how "Axios" ended because I really liked how this one did.
All in all, this book was a pretty good read and at times it was a little more difficult to read than "Axios" because Axios as a character is just easier to love, but I still enjoyed it a lot and I did fall in love with Eryx once again despite his edges. His love for Axios is so bright and illuminating, it is like the force that defines this book, and it was so good revisiting that in this tale.
I took 31 days to finish this book and I liked it but I still took too long to finish, I hope I get better with time because this is ridiculous. I read Harry Potter and the Order of Pheonix in 9-11 days and that was probably the longest I have ever taken to read a book before this one and that was back in 2004.
So, yeah that segue aside, it did take me some time to get really into this one and a lot of that had to do with how much I was struggling with the Odyssey, so much so that I told myself I wouldn't pick up another book till I finished that one and that's part of the reason this took so long to finish because I was already reading the Odyssey when I started this one.
"Eryx" is the events of "Axios" from Eryx's POV. So, yes it is pretty much the same story but there is a ton of extra content, not only are we privy to scenes that only Eryx bears witness to but a lot of the scenes that he shares with Axios are also expanded and I just believe there might just be more scenes as well. Also, the sex scenes are more elaborate in this one and it is a hundred and seventy pages longer, so yes there is just more of the book to read. Though a lot of this extra content is towards the end and since I read the latter two-thirds of this book in the last five days, it is just more interesting once you are through the beginning.
I was supposed to start "Eryx" shortly after "Axios' but that didn't happen and it took about a fortnight to get to it and then a month to finish it (you can tell I am never getting over that), but strangely when I started it I couldn't remember how "Axios" ended. When I did approach the end of "Eryx", I ended up remembering a lot more about how the book would end but prior to that, it was weird because I just didn't know if they lived or died at the end. So, that made this a little bit more intriguing because I knew these characters and I knew how their story went but I didn't know how it ended.
"Eryx" starts off with a prologue that immediately captured my attention but then the book starts off and a lot of the earlier chapters are just the same events from Eryx's POV not that they didn't change with the fact that we were now looking at these events from Eryx's perspective but it still wasn't anything different than what you could glean on your own.
Things really start to get going once we get to the topic of slavery because it is easy to love Axios throughout that whole situation but given Eryx's views I didn't know if I would still be able to like let alone love him once we got to that same point in the story. I was particularly scared of how the scene in why Eryx kills for the first time would go especially given the fact that Eryx doesn't hold the same views as Axios regarding slavery. But, the author made a very good decision with how that scene was framed and handled, it was a make or break point for me and I am glad with the way it actually turned out.
I know I am pushing modern morality on a time that was very different but the slavery part of this book had started making me uncomfortable especially since I knew what was coming. Once the story has them get together that is when things get easier and more elaborate.
There is just more of Axios and Eryx and Eryx is so damn passionate like I can't get over just how much he loves Axios and after that point, I wanted to read this story and see where it would lead. I loved the ending and I still find myself wondering how "Axios" ended because I really liked how this one did.
All in all, this book was a pretty good read and at times it was a little more difficult to read than "Axios" because Axios as a character is just easier to love, but I still enjoyed it a lot and I did fall in love with Eryx once again despite his edges. His love for Axios is so bright and illuminating, it is like the force that defines this book, and it was so good revisiting that in this tale.
June 7, 2020
https://celebrityreaders.com/2020/06/...
3.5 stars — I have not read the first book, Axios, so I can verify this one can be completely read as a standalone. From the reviews, it sounds like there’s a LOT of repeat, instead of just a few fill in the gaps scenes from a different POV. Which makes it great for those who haven’t read the other book, but makes it less likely that I’ll want to go back and read Axios, even just for those few scenes.
This one was tough for me…because it was so violent and brutal. And that’s, I believe, realistic of the Spartan boy experience. But wow. I didn’t want my heroes to be okay with that. It’s like my delicate 21st Century sensibilities just couldn’t handle the realities of their life. The way those boys were beaten and tortured as part of their training was just…sickening. The way the slaves were treated. The liberties afforded to men who won battles (wrt the women of a village). It was all just….hard. It was hard because Axios was so gentle, and held the beliefs that aligned more closely with my own, and for his own safety, Eryx had to encourage him to abandon those ideals, and not speak up. That’s not what you want to read, you know? So that was hard, to say the least.
I’m not a historical reader, and I don’t know all that much about history…but I can say that there were the occasional things that stood out even to me as being possibly inaccurate (like them saying “Huah” in response in formation). Do I know for sure? Meh, nope. But basically just a vague warning to the truly picky — this one may take a few liberties.
The other thing preventing this from being a complete winner for me was just the length — there were parts that felt a bit drawn out. And I hate to say it, but after a certain point I was done with the steamy scenes. Which is not to say that there weren’t moments later in the story that I wanted, but maybe if a few more insignificant scenes were cut, it would flow better.
Now, saying all that, there were pieces of this book that I just LOVED! This was a true friends to lovers story, where you got to watch Eryx and Axios grow up and grow together. They balanced each other out perfectly…and while, like I said, I would have preferred Axios’s ideals to win, I got why Eryx’s were the safer choice in that time. This was not a story of revolutions afterall. I just seriously loved them as a couple. Eryx was an interesting hero on his own, but it was them together that really made this story.
But honestly? The complete STAND OUT of this book for me was the brotherhood that developed between Eryx, Axios, Haden, Quill and Theon (with various other characters thrown in as well). That core group of boys went through so much together, and I truly believed in their bond. I loved watching them struggle and fight, and play and find love. I loved the way they teased one another. I loved how much they cared about one another. This book would not have been the same without those other 3 boys as well.
And it wasn’t just the core group — they were lots of other memorable characters. I adored Leanna (and her two boys). Paris and Galen brought some interesting perspectives. I loved the mentorship Eryx got from Nikias, and the mentoring he did with Demetrius and Cassius. And even though it made me super uncomfortable, and I wasn’t a huge fan, I appreciated what King Agis brought to the story.
So yeah. Mixed bag. Maybe not the best choice to get me back into reading after a hiatus, but it brought out my feels in the end.
3.5 stars — I have not read the first book, Axios, so I can verify this one can be completely read as a standalone. From the reviews, it sounds like there’s a LOT of repeat, instead of just a few fill in the gaps scenes from a different POV. Which makes it great for those who haven’t read the other book, but makes it less likely that I’ll want to go back and read Axios, even just for those few scenes.
This one was tough for me…because it was so violent and brutal. And that’s, I believe, realistic of the Spartan boy experience. But wow. I didn’t want my heroes to be okay with that. It’s like my delicate 21st Century sensibilities just couldn’t handle the realities of their life. The way those boys were beaten and tortured as part of their training was just…sickening. The way the slaves were treated. The liberties afforded to men who won battles (wrt the women of a village). It was all just….hard. It was hard because Axios was so gentle, and held the beliefs that aligned more closely with my own, and for his own safety, Eryx had to encourage him to abandon those ideals, and not speak up. That’s not what you want to read, you know? So that was hard, to say the least.
I’m not a historical reader, and I don’t know all that much about history…but I can say that there were the occasional things that stood out even to me as being possibly inaccurate (like them saying “Huah” in response in formation). Do I know for sure? Meh, nope. But basically just a vague warning to the truly picky — this one may take a few liberties.
The other thing preventing this from being a complete winner for me was just the length — there were parts that felt a bit drawn out. And I hate to say it, but after a certain point I was done with the steamy scenes. Which is not to say that there weren’t moments later in the story that I wanted, but maybe if a few more insignificant scenes were cut, it would flow better.
Now, saying all that, there were pieces of this book that I just LOVED! This was a true friends to lovers story, where you got to watch Eryx and Axios grow up and grow together. They balanced each other out perfectly…and while, like I said, I would have preferred Axios’s ideals to win, I got why Eryx’s were the safer choice in that time. This was not a story of revolutions afterall. I just seriously loved them as a couple. Eryx was an interesting hero on his own, but it was them together that really made this story.
But honestly? The complete STAND OUT of this book for me was the brotherhood that developed between Eryx, Axios, Haden, Quill and Theon (with various other characters thrown in as well). That core group of boys went through so much together, and I truly believed in their bond. I loved watching them struggle and fight, and play and find love. I loved the way they teased one another. I loved how much they cared about one another. This book would not have been the same without those other 3 boys as well.
And it wasn’t just the core group — they were lots of other memorable characters. I adored Leanna (and her two boys). Paris and Galen brought some interesting perspectives. I loved the mentorship Eryx got from Nikias, and the mentoring he did with Demetrius and Cassius. And even though it made me super uncomfortable, and I wasn’t a huge fan, I appreciated what King Agis brought to the story.
So yeah. Mixed bag. Maybe not the best choice to get me back into reading after a hiatus, but it brought out my feels in the end.
May 25, 2024
♾️/ 5 ⭐️’s - As soon as I finished reading Axios, I immediately jumped into Eryx, and now they are becoming my favorite books of all time. The story is essentially the same but from Eryx’s POV, which I absolutely LOVE. If I could read the POV of every character in this story, I would, because I adore them so much and never get tired of reading about them!
I didn't realize Eryx felt so strongly about Axios from the moment they met. Although there's no doubt that Eryx loved Axios in Axios's POV (despite struggling with words), in this book, you can really tell there’s no one Eryx loves more in earth,seas, or heavens. Eryx truly is Axios’s only raven. After reading this, my standards for love went through the roof —if I can’t have a love like this, then I don’t want it ❤️❤️
The story is obviously tragic, but I felt they lived as good a life as Spartans could have. They cherished each other every day, fought alongside each other, built a house together, and had sons, even if not biologically, forming strong bonds with Demetrius and Cassius. I’m glad Jaclyn reunited them with Quill and Treon in their little house by the shore after death.
This book has left a lasting impact on me, and I can't recommend it enough for those looking for a profound, beautifully tragic love story.
Favourite quotes:
🍯 "I would kill any man, go any distance, and burn the whole world down if it meant keeping you safe."
🌿 “I would give him the moon on a string if he asked it of me.”
🍯 From the very first time I saw him, I knew the fates had a plan for us. I just hadn't known the plan was for me to fall in love with him.
🌿 Love had no place in Sparta... yet, that's exactly what I'd found.
🍯 "To love and defend you, and to spend the rest of my days pleasing you. This I swear, by the gods."
🌿 "Even in dark days, we must always seek the light. Once we surrender to darkness, we lose hope, and without hope... we have already lost."
🍯 “You and I will never part, my warrior. In this life and the next, we will be just as we have forever been: side by side. There is not a thing that can take me from you, neither the slashing of a sword nor the impalement from a spear, for I will always find you."
🌿 "I think of home. Each time I look into your eyes, Ery, I know I am where I'm meant to be."
🍯 The blood of Aphrodite must've run through his veins, only then would it explain the power he held over me.
🌿 "We might be men, Eryx, but we will always be brothers. It is my wish that Leonidas find companions such as the ones I've found in you, Axios, and the two imps."
🍯 I could live a million different lifetimes and I'd still choose him in every single one.
❤️❤️ "In all the ages, there has never been a love like ours. No one has ever loved another as I have loved you. If we fall today, my soul will find yours. For I am eternally yours... in this life and the next."❤️❤️
I didn't realize Eryx felt so strongly about Axios from the moment they met. Although there's no doubt that Eryx loved Axios in Axios's POV (despite struggling with words), in this book, you can really tell there’s no one Eryx loves more in earth,seas, or heavens. Eryx truly is Axios’s only raven. After reading this, my standards for love went through the roof —if I can’t have a love like this, then I don’t want it ❤️❤️
The story is obviously tragic, but I felt they lived as good a life as Spartans could have. They cherished each other every day, fought alongside each other, built a house together, and had sons, even if not biologically, forming strong bonds with Demetrius and Cassius. I’m glad Jaclyn reunited them with Quill and Treon in their little house by the shore after death.
This book has left a lasting impact on me, and I can't recommend it enough for those looking for a profound, beautifully tragic love story.
Favourite quotes:
🍯 "I would kill any man, go any distance, and burn the whole world down if it meant keeping you safe."
🌿 “I would give him the moon on a string if he asked it of me.”
🍯 From the very first time I saw him, I knew the fates had a plan for us. I just hadn't known the plan was for me to fall in love with him.
🌿 Love had no place in Sparta... yet, that's exactly what I'd found.
🍯 "To love and defend you, and to spend the rest of my days pleasing you. This I swear, by the gods."
🌿 "Even in dark days, we must always seek the light. Once we surrender to darkness, we lose hope, and without hope... we have already lost."
🍯 “You and I will never part, my warrior. In this life and the next, we will be just as we have forever been: side by side. There is not a thing that can take me from you, neither the slashing of a sword nor the impalement from a spear, for I will always find you."
🌿 "I think of home. Each time I look into your eyes, Ery, I know I am where I'm meant to be."
🍯 The blood of Aphrodite must've run through his veins, only then would it explain the power he held over me.
🌿 "We might be men, Eryx, but we will always be brothers. It is my wish that Leonidas find companions such as the ones I've found in you, Axios, and the two imps."
🍯 I could live a million different lifetimes and I'd still choose him in every single one.
❤️❤️ "In all the ages, there has never been a love like ours. No one has ever loved another as I have loved you. If we fall today, my soul will find yours. For I am eternally yours... in this life and the next."❤️❤️
March 20, 2020
Eryx and Axios forever
What an incredible story from Eryx’ POV. Yes, much of it is the same historical storyline as Axios ... but because Eryx is such a strong character, the story has a different feel to it. Eryx and Axios have a love like no other. Eryx’ POV is heartbreaking because he is a born leader who the others look up to, and his view of life and training to be a fierce warrior is exponentially different than Axios’s. Even so, he treasures Axios in every way and realizes that he needs Axios’s dreamer-like outlook as much as his next breath. I just adore the two and think about them quite often. They’ve stolen my heart, along with Haden, Quill, Theon, and Felix.
A Spartan’s life is unbearable to anyone else, but they’ll do anything for their land. I wish life was different for them. The loyalty, love, and brotherhood built over the years among the boys to men could not have been any stronger. I just hate war and I hate when I think of what each of their lives could have been like if their way of life was different.
As far as Axios and Eryx, the impact of their true love will stay in my heart forever. Boxes of tissues are needed for this one, but it’s SO worth it. Five warrior stars for me ~ Jaclyn Osborn is a brilliant author; her books are a treasure ❤️
What an incredible story from Eryx’ POV. Yes, much of it is the same historical storyline as Axios ... but because Eryx is such a strong character, the story has a different feel to it. Eryx and Axios have a love like no other. Eryx’ POV is heartbreaking because he is a born leader who the others look up to, and his view of life and training to be a fierce warrior is exponentially different than Axios’s. Even so, he treasures Axios in every way and realizes that he needs Axios’s dreamer-like outlook as much as his next breath. I just adore the two and think about them quite often. They’ve stolen my heart, along with Haden, Quill, Theon, and Felix.
A Spartan’s life is unbearable to anyone else, but they’ll do anything for their land. I wish life was different for them. The loyalty, love, and brotherhood built over the years among the boys to men could not have been any stronger. I just hate war and I hate when I think of what each of their lives could have been like if their way of life was different.
As far as Axios and Eryx, the impact of their true love will stay in my heart forever. Boxes of tissues are needed for this one, but it’s SO worth it. Five warrior stars for me ~ Jaclyn Osborn is a brilliant author; her books are a treasure ❤️
February 13, 2020
For the love of a raven
I wasn’t sure what to expect since I hadn’t read Axios but I needn’t have worried. After reading this I learned so much about Eryx and Axios and fell in love with them and this world. In fact I may go back and read Axios just so I can hear his perspective of everything. I really enjoyed the historical aspects of this book and found everything so fascinating. Although parts of this book were tough to read, I loved every page of it, especially the camaraderie and brotherhood that developed between all the guys.
I adore Axios and the beautiful ways he views the world. With Eryx, I adore his loyalty and his protectiveness. What I enjoyed the most about this book though is the bond these two have and how fiercely they defend it. “Never question where my heart lies, because it is forever yours. In this life and the next.” These words and these two stole my heart. Eryx and Axios make each other more. There’s nothing they wouldn’t do for each other and they have a love for the ages. In fact, this is one of the best love stories I’ve read and I hope it never ends.
I wasn’t sure what to expect since I hadn’t read Axios but I needn’t have worried. After reading this I learned so much about Eryx and Axios and fell in love with them and this world. In fact I may go back and read Axios just so I can hear his perspective of everything. I really enjoyed the historical aspects of this book and found everything so fascinating. Although parts of this book were tough to read, I loved every page of it, especially the camaraderie and brotherhood that developed between all the guys.
I adore Axios and the beautiful ways he views the world. With Eryx, I adore his loyalty and his protectiveness. What I enjoyed the most about this book though is the bond these two have and how fiercely they defend it. “Never question where my heart lies, because it is forever yours. In this life and the next.” These words and these two stole my heart. Eryx and Axios make each other more. There’s nothing they wouldn’t do for each other and they have a love for the ages. In fact, this is one of the best love stories I’ve read and I hope it never ends.
February 12, 2020
I feel in love with Axios and Eryx awhile back when I took that journey in Jaclyn's Spartacus World. Axios was told from his point of view, through his perception I learned the struggles of what it took to become the the ultimate Spartan. The bonding of friends through childhood til death. Two young boys that grew up together as best friends then into lovers. The fears and the dreams that Axios had.
Now, this amazing author brings back this story, but through another perception, and that is of Eryx. The tale of a young boy who was disgrace and worn the badge of coward cause of his father. Determined not to be him, he trained harder, exceeded in everything he did. He made sure to be one of the greatest Spartans. However, there was so much of him that was unknown. So much that he held back and refused to let anyone know, but his best friend, his one and only true love Axios. Through the words I read his inner struggles, found out his darkest secrets but above all knew without a doubt that their love was real, it was forever, it started and ended the way it was meant to.
Now, this amazing author brings back this story, but through another perception, and that is of Eryx. The tale of a young boy who was disgrace and worn the badge of coward cause of his father. Determined not to be him, he trained harder, exceeded in everything he did. He made sure to be one of the greatest Spartans. However, there was so much of him that was unknown. So much that he held back and refused to let anyone know, but his best friend, his one and only true love Axios. Through the words I read his inner struggles, found out his darkest secrets but above all knew without a doubt that their love was real, it was forever, it started and ended the way it was meant to.
March 27, 2020
Breathtaking story of soulmates
I agonised a little on whether I should start this right after Axios. After reading Axios I was stunned, heartbroken, emotionally exhausted...but my heart still felt full. I’m so glad I did. This beautiful story experienced from Eryx’s point of view was exquisite! I though I may get bored reading the same events but the different point of view from the stoic warrior is gorgeous. I got emotional earlier in this book as I knew the journey I was about to take. I think it made their bond feel even more special. I had the same reaction to the end of Eryx as I did Axios. Though it hurt my heart it was still beautiful, so heartfelt! I could feel their soul bond jumping off the pages at me. It may not end with ease but for a Spartan warrior it was honourable. These books will forever be in my heart.
I agonised a little on whether I should start this right after Axios. After reading Axios I was stunned, heartbroken, emotionally exhausted...but my heart still felt full. I’m so glad I did. This beautiful story experienced from Eryx’s point of view was exquisite! I though I may get bored reading the same events but the different point of view from the stoic warrior is gorgeous. I got emotional earlier in this book as I knew the journey I was about to take. I think it made their bond feel even more special. I had the same reaction to the end of Eryx as I did Axios. Though it hurt my heart it was still beautiful, so heartfelt! I could feel their soul bond jumping off the pages at me. It may not end with ease but for a Spartan warrior it was honourable. These books will forever be in my heart.
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