Alliance of Independent Authors I'm an Ethical Author Small

Click on the pictureS to get the Nephilim Quest books with a discounted price
when you buy  direct from me, the author.

AMMO ad Lady With Bowl
NQ 1 Shadowhunter cover
Moon daughter
NQ3 Amarna Cover
NQ4 cover

nephilim quest

The plot for Nephilim Quest developed in my mind for about ten years. The mythology on human kind has always interested me. I often looked at the winged gods and goddesses of different cultures and of course the story of the Nephilim from the Old Testament came to mind. Where did all the stories of the winged humans evolve from? At the same time I wondered about the possibility of time travel. The most interesting stories I read were those where people claimed they had somehow fallen through time into the past. What would I do if that happened to me? How would I let people know where - and when - I was?

Out of these thoughts the story was born. I did not have the energy to write it immediately, though. Two family members caught cancer, and eventually passed away. I never understood how much of my energies it all took, not until the funeral of my father was over. Suddenly it was like the floodgates had opened and I typed like mad, finally giving the story an opportunity to come out. I wrote the first draft of 120.000 words in two months while writing my final essay about Middle Kingdom fortresses in Nubia on my Egyptology studies. I edited the story first by myself, and then with my excellent editor Miriam Bibby (check the Interviews). And on January 2016 the first book of the series, Shadowhunter, was published.

After one more year's work the second book, Moon Daughter, saw daylight.

Now Book number three of the series, Amarna, is also published - it happens in the times of the pharaoh Akhenaten.

Nephilim Quest 1 Shadowhunter - a time travel adventure to ancient Egypt
Nephilim Quest 2 Moon Daughter - a time travel adventure to ancient Egypt
NQ4 cover

Prequel to the Nephilim Quest -series.

You get ANGEL for free when you sign up to my email list. (No spam! No giving away your email address)

SIGN UP HERE

reviews of nQ 1: shadowhunter

Here are some of the reviews the book has received, mostly on Amazon.com and Amazon.co.uk. I am very happy to read that people like the book, as I have published book number 2 of the series and am now working on book nr 3. I love the writing, but it is hard work. So many details from the first books need to be tied together in book number two. And it may be a book nr 4 is needed too to tell the story of Dana and Daniel. 

Lila

5.0 out of 5 stars

A wonderfully woven tale of modern and ancient times with ancient Egypt mixed in!

July 24, 2018

Format: Kindle EditionVerified Purchase

Got hooked and drawn into their world quickly! A wonderful and complex storyline that weaves you back and forth through time in a way that won't let you stop reading! I really enjoyed the historical content and how well it is blended with the storyline and the depth of the characters. Great read!

5.0 out of 5 stars

It was exciting and i was able to go in to the story and feel like i was right there along the characters loved the book

ByDebbie borregoon January 18, 2017

Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase

I enjoyed reading the book. It was exciting. I felt like I was right by the character s it was easy to read I loved the story. I would like to read the next book.

RayV Kindle customer

5.0 out of 5 stars

Refreshingly good

29 July 2018

Format: Kindle EditionVerified Purchase

All the characters are believable, and you soon feel you know them, but realise there's more to come. I loved this book, and recommend to others. Such simple language and so much historical info, you don't realise till after what you've learnt.

Helpful


Bya griffithon November 18, 2016

Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase

This was a very good book that I read in two days I look forward to the next installment due to this book leaving you with a major cliffhanger....That being the only problem I had with the book. Hopefully the next book will come out soon.

5.0 out of 5 starsWonderful read / best mistake

ByWolfon September 14, 2016

Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase

So, I thought I bought a book in a different series I'd been reading when I bought this, then started reading and thought, damn what a fool, buying some story with a knockoff title. But since I can't put down a book once I start it is kept reading. Once I got past my initial thoughts on 'fool' & 'cheap knockoff' and got into the first chapters I realized, wow, what a wonderful surprise, and "not a knockoff" and "lucky fool, I ". Love the different POV /characters yet with non predictable plots. #2 can't get here fast enough. Thankful for such talented people like Leena. Hope to see many more stories from this Author over many years to come.
Lucky Fool

5.0 out of 5 starsGreat book genre for young people

ByBWDTon November 6, 2016

Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase

Great book genre for young people. I may be old, but I enjoy reading 'clean' books.

5.0 out of 5 starsCute

ByLadyDACon October 28, 2016

Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase

Adorable little read. Enthralling story of love across time and space. I would recommend it for anyone who loves angels.

Review by Liezha Marie Hose (as an answer to a blog post)

I just finished the book a few days ago and until now, I have been daydreaming of what will be in the sequel! I have never read a book set in Ancient Egypt. I got so hooked that I wasn’t able to sleep without reading at least 5 chapters. Its a page-turner, that’s all I can say! For a first time author, this book can already be compared to bigger names like Sydney Sheldon, and Stephen King. Congratulation! I look forward to your next book and hope to see this in the theater.

5.0 out of 5 starsLove this book

ByJDCon August 12, 2016

Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase

I can't wait until the next one. The lay out is different but in the end you see it all coming together

5.0 out of 5 stars Very nice read

ByNataliya Makhinaon July 23, 2016

Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase

I enjoyed reading and want to continue reading the next book from this series. The writing of Leena brings a nice feeling.

Great read

Byasomewon July 16, 2016

Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase

This book was absolutely enjoyable. There are more than enough characters to keep the story going. It was not what I expected but definitely a book I look forward to reading how the rest of the series as out

5.0 out of 5 starsWow!!! A very good bookBy Brenda W. on February 13, 2016

Format: Kindle EditionThe book was well written. It flowed at a good pace. I laughed and I cried. I enjoyed every bit. Please tell me there is a book 2!! I was given this book free for an honest review. Thank you for introducing me to this world.

5.0 out of 5 starsA meeting of historical and contemporary mythology.By Amazon Customer on January 31, 2016

Format: Kindle EditionI thoroughly enjoyed this book, well researched for the factual details in regards to the mythology of Egypt that intertwined easily with the fictional elements. I was captured within the first couple of pages. Great plot and character development, with well described visual imagery. A great read, I can't wait for the next one to see what happens next and look forward to a series of these.

Clare Ambrose

5.0 out of 5 stars

Amazing!!

6 September 2017

Format: Kindle EditionVerified Purchase

This book is unique as are the characters. I would recommend it to anyone who would listen. I couldn't put the my phone down

5.0 out of 5 starsAn amazing story, with historical facts and a budding romanceBy Amazon Customer on 8 Feb. 2016

Format: Kindle Edition Verified PurchaseAn amazing story, with historical facts and a budding romance. Beautifully written. Couldn't put it down. Eagerly waiting the sequel.

5.0 out of 5 starsGreat read if you're a Nephilim fan

ByAmazon Customeron 23 January 2017

Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase

Great read if you're a Nephilim fan. I'm a big fan of Cassandra Clare, but contray to what two people have written her, Clare did not invent the idea of Nephilim. It's Biblical; Clare just made it famous.

5.0 out of 5 starsit was also one of the best books I have read in some time

ByChristineon April 29, 2017

Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase

This is the longest book I have read in quite some time. I haven't had much time to read lately because life has become a very busy thing for me, but this book kept calling me back every time I found a spare minute.
The thing is, it was also one of the best books I have read in some time. The author moves around between different situations, but you begin to realize that all things are connected and I couldn't wait to find out exactly HOW they connected. The story itself is engaging and well told.
My only complaint is that I wish the author would give me the book to read through and edit for grammar, spelling and punctuation. When I read there is a flow, and when I butt up against an awkward grammatical sentence or some other issue it brings me up short and pulls me out of that flow. Not a pleasant thing. It's much like being out for a walk and having rocks suddenly popping up in the path unexpectedly. Kind of takes your attention away from the joy of the walk you are on! Note to author - contractions are okay. They often fit far better than drawing everything out into 2 words like cannot instead of can't, do not instead of don't, and it is instead of it's. Sometimes it's fine to use the drawn out form, but sometimes it just sounds stilted. I do not know why you cannot insert the occasional contraction to make the words flow in a more relaxed way. See there?
Anyhow, the book really is worth reading. I am on the second one and concerned that I will finish and have to wait for quite some time for another (I will mention that the second book has the same grammatical issues as the first).
The story weaves aspects of angels, nephilim, history, time travel, vampires (not quite like the ones you're used to), love and magic in a unique and interesting fashion. I have always thought that the best books are the ones that make it possible for me to suspend my knowledge of my reality, to be able to believe that this other world could exist within my own. This book does that and is a true treat for someone who has craved something not only new, but also really well done.

(Leena's comment: I have noticed that some readers in the US find the British English used in this book strange. The story happens  (in our times) in England, so British English is used. And Dana spent her childhood in the States and so she uses mixed terminology sometimes. This is done on purpose - not every character in the book can talk the same way - their cultural background has to be taken into consideration.)

By Libby6 on 7 Jun. 2017

Format: Kindle Edition Verified Purchase

Bit weird story

K-Ron7

4.0 out of 5 starsMust Read!

July 16, 2016

Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase

Great book! Enjoyed it immensely! Can't wait for book 2.

One person found this helpful

Amazon Customer

5.0 out of 5 stars

The development of the plot and characters are great. I found interesting that different plots intertwined st ...

January 25, 2018

Format: Kindle EditionVerified Purchase

The development of the plot and characters are great. I found interesting that different plots intertwined st the same time.

5.0 out of 5 starsFantastic

Byvfon 21 April 2017

Format: Paperback

When I started the book I thought it was quite complicated as a lot of characters are introduced quite quickly but the more I read the more I loved it to the point of not being able to put it down. The plot has some intriguing twists and now that I am into the second in the series I am longing for some of them to be resolved! It is factually correct from a historical point of view which is something that I appreciate having an interest in Ancient Egypt myself. Anyone with an interest in fantasy and/orEgypt will love this.

5.0 out of 5 starsExcellent Read

ByTeresa Northon 27 April 2017

Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase

I loved this book and couldn't wait to start book 2 and now have to wait for 3
The whole concept is so beautifully researched and totally believable I'm looking for Nephilims everywhere lol

5.0 out of 5 starsWonderful read

ByAmazon Customeron 12 March 2017

Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase

I can truly say that this book captured my soul a real page turne that I really didn't want to end I look forward to book 2 and know that once again I will be in for a treat Leena Maria is a super writer.

ByAmazon Customeron December 8, 2016

Format: Paperback|Verified Purchase

Absolutely fantastic! Had to read it without taking a break! Waiting for the next one!

Review by Mybookwormblogger.com

A STUNNING AND MAGICAL DEBUT NOVEL!

If you love adventure then you will love this book!

At first there is a lot of information to take in and at times I found myself slightly confused. Then all of a sudden something just clicked and understanding flooded in opening up this fantastic new world!

The story is completely original, I have never read anything like it. Not only is it a fantastic story, it is also brilliantly educational. A lot of history, specifically Egyptian (which I found fascinating) is to be found. It is clear that a lot of research, time and effort has been put into this fabulous read!

The story has a few different narratives that kept me guessing as to the connection to each other, and offers many twists and turns that I just didn’t see coming. So many layers have been placed in this book and every moment spent unraveling them has been an absolute pleasure.

Leena has created some fantastic characters and really made me connect with them in ways that many accomplished authors have failed to do.

Nephilim Quest is the debut novel by Leena Maria and it is one you don’t want to miss!

ByAmazon Customeron November 19, 2016

Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase

What an amazing and intriguing plot line! It is incredible the way that Leena Maria weaves Finnish language, Ancient Egypt, Angelology (and more!) into an absolutely riveting and wonderful story--- the details of each storyline are meticulously researched and presented in intriguing ways. This book is an absolute pleasure to read—although the plot is layered and nuanced, I found the narrative to be always readily accessible and understandable. The characters are fascinating, and the relationships among the characters move the plot rapidly forward. I am looking forward to buying the next installment when it appears—I really need to know what happens next!

5.0 out of 5 starsGreat read it couldn't put it down!

ByBreanne Chapmanon September 20, 2016

Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase

Great read it couldn't put it down. I'm ready for the next book, so I can stay on my toes in anticipation.

Must Read!

ByK-Ron7on July 16, 2016

Format: Paperback|Verified Purchase

Great book! Enjoyed it immensely! Can't wait for book 2.

5.0 out of 5 starsGripping !!!By Ms. Susan A. Corcoran on 17 Feb. 2016

Format: Kindle Edition Verified PurchaseGripping !!! I gave this book 5 stars because I thoroughly enjoyed it. It's like a wonderful, colourful tapestry with all the components; history, romance, adventure, travel and intrigue, skilfully woven together. The story moves at a varying pace reflecting the nature of the scenes; some passages are exciting and fast and some are slowed to allow the reader to savour more delicate themes. The title says 'Book 1' - it is truly an excellent introductory scene-setter with the characters, their backgrounds, timelines and landscapes taking form nicely and I cannot wait for the next volume !!! A super read - highly recommended.

5.0 out of 5 starsWe want more!By Amazon Customer on January 31, 2016

Format: Kindle EditionThe multifaceted story intrigues you from the very beginning. All of a sudden it is possible to believe that the worlds hidden from the human mind around us are real; even if you are not a teenager for whom this novel clearly is a must. The bursts of dry humour in between the most horrifying actions displaying the darkness of the mind catch you unguarded and create a lightness preventing the darkness from taking over, supporting the general undertone of the good prevailing – with any luck.Thank you, Leena Maria, for letting me read the book for free even before it was published. I must say, however, that feel cheated!!! Having been captured in the fantastic world of unknown dimensions and graving to know more about the fates of the characters, in the end I was just left dangling, wanting more.Hopefully we’ll soon get a sequel that lifts this novel into worldwide awareness. 

 5.0 out of 5 starsA story for everyoneBy Miss K on 31 Jan. 2016Format: Kindle EditionA mythical, mystical and fast paced tale set in three different times. If you are into ancient myths, Egyptology, or are looking for a sweet young love story, this book has it all combined. The story keeps you engaged and wanting to find out what happens next. I can not wait for the next instalment!

4.0 out of 5 starsLove this story

BySandra Denton January 23, 2017

Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase

The story and characters are wonderful! I found myself going to purchase the next book in the story, only to find it not out yet. The only real issue I had with the book is the lack of quality editing.

(Leena's comment: can't quite agree with the editing comment. You should have seen the story before editing... My editor did the best job, made me rewrite and restructure the story and the story was really much better for it. I've had some comments on the language the character use - as Dana had lived her younger years in US, and now moved to UK, that shows in her speech as well and is done deliberately.)

5.0 out of 5 starsI liked this book

ByKenneth D. Lloydon January 29, 2017

Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase

I liked this book. It jumps around and is a bit challenging at times to keep up the with the action and people but the story keeps you engaged for the entire book. I am looking forward to the next installment.

By Minna on June 6, 2017

Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase

Wonderful twist and turns. Very interesting book. First took little while to get into it but more you read more you understand and get pulled deeper and deeper to story and you want to know what happens next. Intrigued with this book.

C. Ponce

4.0 out of 5 stars

The lead character changes more in this book.

January 17, 2019

Format: Kindle EditionVerified Purchase

Got to know characters more thoroughly. That it takes forever to get another book from this author. I really enjoy this story tremendously, but to wait so long you loose interest.

Hana

5.0 out of 5 starsLooking forward to see more from Leena!

14 October 2017

Format: Kindle EditionVerified Purchase

Leena is new author on the scene and I must say I like her style. She writes very convincingly, so you can loose yourself in the story and even forget that it is a fiction! :)

j degernier

5.0 out of 5 stars

Five Stars

12 September 2017

Format: Kindle EditionVerified Purchase

Loved it will read again as so much unit.

fencingqueen

5.0 out of 5 stars

Five Stars

5 August 2017

Format: Kindle EditionVerified Purchase

Enjoyed the book infact I got the next chapter as well.


Breanne Chapman-Headley

5.0 out of 5 starsGreat read it couldn't put it down!

September 20, 2016

Format: Kindle EditionVerified Purchase

Great read it couldn't put it down. I'm ready for the next book, so I can stay on my toes in anticipation.

nat

5.0 out of 5 starsQuick and easy transaction

4 May 2019

Format: Kindle Edition

Back to Homepage 



Click on the Leenasbooks Newsletter headline above  to go to the newsletter blog's first page on Substack to see what it is about.

You can read the past posts there, and check if you are interested in listening to the audio chapters of my published books, or follow my stories as I write them.

Upon subscribing you will get the Prequel to Nephilim Quest: Angel.

Over two hundred years before Nephilim Quest 1 / Shadowhunter the roots of the story are planted.

A little girl missing her mother, in the palace of the mightiest of the dark Nephilim, hoping for an escape ...  

This book is not for sale anywhere - only readers who have subscribed to my mailing list will get it.



Enjoy this page? Please pay it forward. Here's how...

Would you prefer to share this page with others by linking to it?

  1. Click on the HTML link code below.
  2. Copy and paste it, adding a note of your own, into your blog, a Web page, forums, a blog comment, your Facebook account, or anywhere that someone would find this page valuable.
Alliance of Independent Authors /
Alliance of Independent Authors /