The First Sin (South of Eden) Audiobook by Lisa Beth Darling – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

I will preface this review with the advice of if you do not enjoy religious interpretations or texts to be altered or stray from the original form, this book is not for you, and I would advise you not to read this. It’s a work of fiction and is to be read with that in mind for enjoyment.
I was raised Catholic and absolutely loved this paranormal romance!

I love the way that the author has brought together the Christian elements and the Olympian elements in a way that makes sense. I enjoyed the way the story was told, occasionally jumping back to provide glimpses into the past.
I also enjoyed the way the narrator voiced the characters with emotion – it brought the author’s descriptive writing and characters to life.

The characters were constructed very well, each of them given their own distinct personalities which suited their roles.
I thought making the Olympian Gods and Christian God siblings was creative and created many humorous and interesting dynamics which were made believable.

I absolutely hated Adam, the author did well to create that feeling through the viewpoint of Lucifer so quickly.

I loved Eve’s sass when facing God and her strength in everything she faced however there were parts in which she frustrated me (her indecisiveness when it came to her romantic relationships for example).

Ares I have mixed feelings about, he’s caring (at times to the point of irritation) but also stubborn yet desperate? That’s the only word that comes to mind there. But I think I’m mostly annoyed by him because of my love for another character.

God a.k.a Chuck was written in a way that fits so well with the story of sibling rivalry – it made sense to me that it was written this way and although I was annoyed by some of what He did, I could see how His personality and family history led to it. The story would not be the same or as good if He had been changed in even the tiniest way – I am in awe of how well the author tied everything together through Chuck.

My absolute favourite character from beginning to end was Lucifer. Made out to be evil but cared for humanity, was fair and just and was punished for it. If I was Eve, there would be no question who my heart would go whole-heartedly to. I can’t give away too many reasons I love Lucifer in this book without revealing spoilers, just know he is caring, smart and fair. He deserves better.

I could rave for days about so many more characters and ways the author wove together an incredible story with surprises, manipulation and complexity, but revealing any more will give away spoilers and you really must experience this for yourself.

I loved it and I will be seeking out more by this author. Extremely talented!