This was an interesting take on one of the most well known biblical stories, Adam and Eve. If you are looking for something that expands on this classic biblical story, this is not the book for you. The character development was strong that even I was cheering for Lucifer. This was an exciting and interesting listen. Just know, you must go in with an open mind.
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!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I can first say this story is very creative and I would also recommend if you are Christian like I am… please keep an open mind. I really enjoyed this story and it quite surprised me.
This take on the story is Eve, who is cursed by God but now has to return to the Garden of Eden and her need to do some healing. Eve is strong and as independent as she can be…including Lucifer, who also returns to the Garden of Eden and is also trying to navigate his way….especially knowing Cain has his own agenda.
This Creation retelling is unique, different and intriguing. I love how the author mixes in different characters including Cain and Ares and just seeing this story is a different perspective.
As a fan of mythology, I enjoyed seeing how the author intertwined the Christian God and the Greek Gods together. I am a Christian, but I still listened to and enjoyed this book. I didn’t see it as blasphemy or anything of the such, but as an interesting fictional story.
Lucifer has been yanked out of Hell and sent back to the Garden of Eden, where Eve is in charge. Eve, who was cursed by God, is now trying to heal the Garden of Eden along with some other immortals (Greek Deities). It is a shock for Eve to see her old love Lucifer again, especially with a jealous Ares hovering around them. This is an interesting retelling of the First Sin and paints the characters involved in a very different light to traditional Christian teachings. That is why I reiterate that it is a work of fiction to be enjoyed and not to be taken as a strike towards any Christian teachings. It amazes me how creative the author is, making twists and turns in the story. The only possible negative was that the narrator had such a soothing, low toned voice that it almost lulled me to sleep when I listened for a long time.
The author of this book takes an extremely unique spin on the story of when the first sin happened. It was a pretty interesting story however I think I got lost while reading it and my anticipation of what would come next made it really rough to follow along. Very creative take on the story. I’m definitely interested in reading more from the author on different subjects.
What a different yet modern day Retelling of the Creation of the world. Lucifer re-enters the world as we know it now. His life is completely turned upside down when his father sends him back to the Garden of Eden. Adam is not who I thought he was. He is abusive and all together needs a backbone of respect for Eve and those around him. As Eve is so much stronger and independent. This Retelling in modern day is spot on. I am a Christian and found this story to be humorous and easy to follow. Some of it was heart wrenching and yet again it was still worth my listening too. The author is creative and knows what she is writing about. Some may disagree, but for me it was well worth reading/listening to. I found this story enjoyable and found it to be informative, LOL. Life is too short to take everything too seriously. We all know the story, this is just a different way of looking at things. A Story reinvented and enjoyable.
Review@cinful
This is my first audio by this author. It is a little different story for me but I enjoyed listening to it from beginning to end. I enjoyed how the narrator brought life to the story by using different tones. The story has some suspense in it as well. You could tell when something was going to happen by the narrator’s tone. I enjoyed the characters and the growth of the plot. Lucifer finds himself back in the Garden of Eden only to find his Cain with some troubles. What happens you will need to listen to this audio to find out. I did enjoy listening to this book and glad that I picked it up. I highly recommend this audiobook.
The First Sin: South of Eden by Lisa Beth Darling
Narrated by John Walker
Five Stars
What an interesting take on the story of Adam and Eve. This book grabbed my attention in the first chapter and never let me go until it was over. I usually don’t listen to this genre, but I think I have been missing out. Ms. Darling weaves a brilliant tale of mythical perfection.
This is the first time I have listen to a book narrated by John Walker, but definitely won’t be the last. I thoroughly enjoyed his voice and look forward to finding more to listen to this narrator. Definitely looking forward listening to more from both the author and the narrator.
Reviewed by @sunbarn
I love finding new authors and new sort of twists on old tales. This was exactly the audiobook I needed. I love how the author is able to twist the tale of creation. The author brings the characters to life and brings the twist and turns along for the ride. I really could not stop listening to this book. The narrator brought so much to the characters and story. I really love how the story unfolds. Just when you thought you knew how creation started this book really adds a spice and flavour to the story bringing the listener along for the ride. I thoroughly got lost in this audiobook and cannot wait to hear more from this author.
Reviewed by @caraleeloonat
This story was quite interesting. First, the narrator had a fantastic voice. I really enjoyed listening to this with him chatting. I do want to say that having to hear about the dirty body parts dragging in the dirt wasn’t really a part of the story that helped it. I found the story to be intriguing from the view of Lucifer, Adam and Eve. The other characters were al right. It had it’s good points and weaker points. I think fans of romance with a bit of erotic in it may enjoy this story.
4/5 stars
➹⁀✵‿➹⁀ AUDIO BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE ➹⁀✵‿➹⁀
Unexpectedly and extremely unceremoniously, Lucifer is yanked out of Hell by his Father so he can return to his old job in the Garden of Eden. This not a reprieve. It’s a last ditch effort to save this withering Paradise, the single place that holds Heaven, Hell, and Earth together.
Lucifer finds he is not alone in in this fading haven. Having been trapped in Hell for more than 2,000 years he struggles to fulfill his Father’s wishes while learning his new place in his old home even as he pines after Eve who has a new lover in Ares.
In the world beyond the shimmering veil sequestering Eden from prying eyes, Cain Enoch has launched himself to the status of The World’s Richest Man and he is on the prowl. The Son of the Devil and Eve is set on finding Eden with murder and destruction on his mind.
Click here to view the Book Trailer for The First Sin (South of Eden) Audiobook by Lisa Beth Darling
With her unique experiences and perspective on life, Lisa Beth Darling is unafraid to delve into places where others may fear to tread. Yet, as Lisa says; “Fear not the dark,” for in doing so she takes the reader on unforgettable journeys through parts of the mind and heart filled with glorious darkness. Here she is able to masterfully illuminate the gloom with gripping tales of the stormy events that shape, test, & define human character allowing us to shine in the most uncertain of times.
In richly defined worlds ranging from contemporary to those filled with magick and Gods, her gripping stories unabashedly run the gambit from dark & thrilling to heartwarming & inspirational. The characters that shape these worlds are ripe with secrets, lust, betrayal, and sometimes rage. Characters so alive they may keep you awake into the wee hours of the morning cheering, weeping, or trapped in suspense as her heroes and heroines are tested by demons who reside within and without.
Lisa Beth Darling is 56 years-old, the mother of two adult daughters, grandmother to two adorable granddaughters, and wife to her husband for 37 years, Roy. She lives and writes in her hometown of New London, CT. Early influences were Stephen King, Mary Higgins Clark, Harold Robins, Jacqueline Susan and VC Andrews. In her spare time she enjoys gardening and photography
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Hephaestus, The God of Fire was a blacksmith and craftsman. This is the story of his life. Being thrown off Mount Olympus twice, once by his mother and once by his father. He did not have a great start to life being rejected. The Sea Witch took him and nursed him to health except for his disfigured leg. As his story progresses you learn how he ended up married to Aphrodite. In a loveless marriage he never really learns what real love is. Quite an interesting story of Greek Mythology.
As a fan of Greek Mythology it was refreshing to get a viewpoint from a Greek God that’s played a pivotal role in Mythology, but often left to the wayside. Their are hundreds if not thousands of different versions Greek myths have been told and this retelling was a great rendition of some truly classic tales. The author as well as the narrator do a fantastic job in breathing life into these classic tales just as Prometheus and Hephaestus breathed life into the clay structures of man.
God of Fire by Helen Steadman
Narrated by Christopher Swift
Four Stars
This is the first book I have listened to by Helen Steadman. Although I usually don’t read/listen to Greek Mythology this story really captured my attention. It was an entertaining story and I will definitely be looking for more stories from this author.
The narration was also, a new to me narrator, Christopher Swift. I truly loved the way he brought the characters to life. This was a great way to start a new genre.
Reviewed by @sunbarn
God of Fire by Helen Steadman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Hephaestus was born and thrown away by his mother Hera. Raised by the sea witch, Hephaestus, the God of Fire, did his best to stay under the radar but his poor leg he found himself lacking but a gift becomes a power. He meets his brother and sister who he barely tolerates. Everything changes though when he meets his mother again and she demands he stay with her. Not because she feels any love, but because she wants the gifts he can make with fire and iron. All is not appears though Hephaestus is mindful in everything he does.
The story takes you on a tale filled with mythological gods and goddesses that you have heard stories of. I had not read of Hephaestus though. I listened to this on audiobook and the narration is fantastic. All the emotions with the different characters are read so well, you are swooped up in the story.
This is an interesting tale of the Greek god Hephaestus. I am an avid fan of Greek mythology and was excited to see a retelling of the life of Hephaestus. This story is told from the viewpoint of the god himself. The author takes liberties and reimagines the stories as their own. This tale is about many of the high and low points in his life. The author gives the listener more of a personal take on the gods and goddesses and not the exact stories from Greek Mythology. I was not a fan of all the shortening of the gods’ names as they spoke to and about each other. If you enjoy Greek mythology, you will recognize many of the things that happen and the characters in this book. Narrator Christopher Swift speaks clearly and keeps the narrative flowing.
This was a nice travel audible story. Greek Mythology has retold many of these characters and yet I enjoyed this version. The humor as well as the tragic events, made this story enjoyable to listen to. My heart went out for Hephaestus. To have been thrown away because of his looks. If that was not enough Hera threw him from heaven, breaking his little body, from his landing in the sea. But Hephaestus is a fighter. Can he live through these events? Will the unwanted child find a family?This is a New author for me. I would never have picked this book, but it caught my interest. Not only that but it was audible, so I got to listen to the story. So in the end I did enjoy the story. If you like Greek Mythology you will Love this one.
5/5 stars
Heph is a pretty cool God that ends up going through some crazy stuff. I found this to be quite the entertaining story. The author did some pretty good research on her historical research. The characters were interesting and kept me engaged. I found the narrator had a pretty good range of voices so this kept the story with variety of changes throughout. The action and drama, what can I say 🙂 At times, I feel like the Greek Gods were similar to Shakespeare plays. It’s a really good story to listen to on audio. I’m really glad I did.
I just love the Greek Myths and this book was really spot on. The author has a style that was a breath of fresh air and really brought the myths to life. I really liked how she was able to create the chemistry between the characters and retell the stories. I really found myself unable to stop the audio book. I really enjoyed the choice of narrator and really felt as though I was right in the midst of the action. I was able to relax and enjoy the narration and I really feel that this brings new levels to the books as I could just get lost in the action. I really enjoyed this audio book and feel as though I would also buy the proper book just to add to the experience. I look forward to hearing more from this author.
Reviewed by @caraleeloonat
This is my first audio book by this author which I enjoyed listening to. I found it interesting and engaging. I enjoyed how the narrator brought the story to life with the different tones throughout the story. I was pulled into the story by the narrator and characters. They are engaging and keep me coming back for more. A mystical story that will take you on an adventure of legacy and how others take advantage of artifacts made from a special power. I enjoyed listening to this audio book and I highly recommend it.
•°•
•°• AUDIO BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE •°••°•
Cast out of heaven at the hands of Hera and raised beneath the sea, this is the epic story of Hephaestus, god of fire. In the palace of Zeus, a son is born to the greatest goddess, Hera. Withered and ugly, the newborn Hephaestus is hurled from the heavens by his repulsed mother. The unforgiving sea offers no soft landing, and the broken godlet sinks to the depths, where his little flame falters. But as darkness looms, he is saved by the sea witch, Thetis, who raises the outcast as her own.
The only Olympian whose injuries never heal, the god of fire endures eternal pain from his wounded leg, making him perhaps the most human member of the pantheon. As if his physical pain were not enough, Zeus punishes Hephaestus further by sentencing him to life with Aphrodite. Unhappily married to the adulterous goddess of love, he is fated to repeat his childhood pattern of rejection, stoically shouldering emotional agony as part of his everlasting burden.
With his foster-mother’s help, Hephaestus lays claim to his legacy and finds his saving grace: the ability to harness fire and create magical metal artefacts. Of course, the other gods waste no time taking advantage of his inventions. A silver mouse for Apollo. A girdle for Aphrodite. Armour for Athena. A bow and arrow for Eros. Winged sandals for Hermes. A throne for Hera. A golden mastiff for Zeus. But the god of fire is nobody’s fool. The magic of Hephaestus has a shadow side, as gods and mortals learn to their cost when Zeus orders him to create Pandora and her infamous receptacle…
This retelling of the Greek myths is recommended for fans of Circe, Mythos and Pandora’s Jar.
Click here to view the Book Trailer for God of Fire: Greek Myths A New Retelling Audiobook by Helen Steadman
Dr Helen Steadman is a historical novelist. She is currently finishing her fifth book, Solstice, the final part of The Widdershins Trilogy. The trilogy was inspired by several witch trials in the north east of England, including the Newcastle witch trials of 21 August, 1650 where fifteen women and one man were hanged as witches.
Despite the Newcastle witch trials being one of the largest mass executions of witches on a single day in England, they are not widely known about. Helen is particularly interested in revealing hidden histories and she is a thorough researcher who goes to great lengths in pursuit of historical accuracy. To get under the skin of the various cunning women in The Widdershins Trilogy, Helen trained in herbalism and learned how to identify, grow and harvest plants and then made herbal medicines from bark, seeds, flowers and berries.
The Running Wolf tells the tale of a group of master swordmakers who defected from Solingen, Germany and moved to Shotley Bridge, England in 1687. As well as carrying out in-depth archive research and visiting forges in Solingen to bring her story to life, Helen also undertook blacksmith training, which culminated in making her own sword. During her archive research, she uncovered some new evidence and published her findings in the Northern History journal.
Return of the Elf Lord by Heidi Vanlandingham
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I love a book with strong character and plot development and this book has both. Between the beautiful cover lays a Fantasy land with deep ties to Norse mythological lore. There is action, adventure, fantasy, romance, and my favorite, historical details. All aspects of a great story are the building blocks an author uses to catch the reader and this author did just that. This was a page turner. I stayed up reading the night through and finally turned in at 4am, but not only did I not stop thinking about the tale, I dreamt about it. Starting book two now and looking forward to another late night.
Azreya, Aztec Priestess by Tricia Copeland
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Azreya is a story about a young girl who is trying to find out who she is meant to be. She was marked from birth with different eyes and a mark on her hand. Her parents sought out the help of a shaman and the shaman ended up deceiving Azreya’s parents. She stays with the shaman for a few years until her eyes are opened to the deceitful ways of the shaman. Azreya leaves the shaman and is finally able to let Tecuani, her inner animal run free. Does Azreya/Tecuani fulfill their mission of letting the truth known? You’ll just have to read the book to find out! P.S. this novel has illustrations to help the imagination!
September, 2022
Mary Espinoza
Azreya, Aztec Priestess by Tricia Copeland
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Azreya is the story of a young Aztec girl, whose family believed she was cursed and her only salvation was to give her to a shaman at the age of three. She grows under his tutelage, wondering who she is and what her purpose should be. Can she trust those around her to be honest and have her best interests at heart? This story has it all, survival, betrayal, and disappointment in those who were supposed to love her the most. Azreya goes on a difficult journey where she learns to trust herself and her abilities as she attempts to save the very people who pushed her away.
I really enjoyed this story a lot. It was a very pleasant read and I couldn’t put it down.
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61654037-azreya-aztec-priestess” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Azreya, Aztec Priestess” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1658502599l/61654037._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61654037-azreya-aztec-priestess”>Azreya, Aztec Priestess</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14055439.Tricia_Copeland”>Tricia Copeland</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/4979849154″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
This is a book for YAs aged 12+. It combines paranormal/fantasy, historical fiction, legend, and mythology. The main character Azreya is born marked by a demon. At the age of three, she is placed in the care of a shaman who promises to protect her. When the Spanish come to Azreya’s land, she sees two paths– one of saving her people and another that leads to their end. Can Azreya control her inner beast and convince her people to break from age-old patterns, or will the Aztecs be vanquished by the enemy?<br /><br />I love love love this author’s work. I can always tell that she just loves writing and this illustrated book is no different! The world-building is amazing, the characters are interesting and relatable, and the illustrations are an added bonus!<br />
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<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/56267508-jasmin”>View all my reviews</a>
Azreya, Aztec Priestess by Tricia Copeland
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I really felt as though I had Journeyed back in time to unlock the secrets of the Aztec in this YA illustrated novel based on mythology and legends. Azreya has always accepted her place as one cursed by the gods, since she was three years old and placed in the care of Nukpana, a shaman. However, when she has foresight of an impending slaughter, Azreya dares to attempt to reverse the Aztec people’s fate, even though it means clashing with the shamans wishes. Forced to flee, and with her family refusing to take her in, Azreya is determined not to stand by and see the demise of her people, and so begins her quest to enlighten them. She faces many challenges, but the biggest one is the monster hiding under her skin. Azreya has to learn how to control her inner beast, in order to convince her people to break from their old ways, to prevent the Aztecs being vanquished by the enemy. The detailed descriptive narrative along with the wonderful illustrations really bring the characters and the setting to life, and made me feel immersed in the story.
Azreya, Aztec Priestess by Tricia Copeland
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Azreya is a young woman with a strong spirit inside her, she was given by her family to a shaman, Nukpana at the age of three, they were told that unless they did, she could become a danger to those around her, but that she would not be able to see them again until that was accomplished. She was taught to read, write and strengthen her body, mind and soul, as well as learn how to use her gifts, but all was not as it seems when a client comes to see Nukpana, but her advice is not what is given, it was advice which would only serve Nukpana, so when she finds out, she cannot be pacified and neither can the soul inside her, so she packs her things and leaves.
In her vision, Azreya has seen the future of the Aztec people, but if the wrong path of two chosen, it could mean the end of her people, so with the knowledge that her people can survive if they band together she sets off to speak to someone who will listen. She decides to stop by the home of her family on the way, however, the truth she finds there is devastating and she is thrown out by the ones she is supposed to be loved by the most. As she journeys to somewhere she is not known, she is determined to face her cursed birth head on and embrace the demon inside her which everyone seems to hate and fear, but this is only the start of her trials.
Will Azreya be able to control her inner demon and come to find a balance and peace within herself, or will the foretold danger to those around her come to the surface and destroy everything she is working towards? This is an epic tale of one girl, one vision and a whole lot of challenges, as she fights to save her people in a race against time which will keep you intrigued throughout and on the edge of your seat until the end.
Reviewed by @roxsannel
Azreya, Aztec Priestess by Tricia Copeland
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Azreya is the tale of a young girl who was born marked by a demon. Fearing for her future, her parents take her to a shaman seeking guidance, he tells them to bring her back to him after her third birthday so that he can teach her to tame the beast within. Azreya then grows and helps him gain status within their community through her work as a seer, though he tales all the credit. When there is talk of the Spainish coming and impending war, Azreya sees two paths, one is her peoples salvation and the other leads them to their doom. Will they listen to the word of a young girl or will they all perish?
This is the type of book you can finish in one sitting but it sits with you for longer. The mythology and mysticism in this was wonderfully written. Great for middle grade/YA readers!
Azreya, Aztec Priestess by Tricia Copeland
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book was so amazing. I felt a connection to the characters. The way the author builds the world inside makes for a great read. The illustrations were absolutely breathtaking. An amazing book for children. I will be reading this to my future children.
Azreya, Aztec Priestess by Tricia Copeland
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book was amazing! Azreya’s journey to accept herself and save her people was absolutely beautiful! I love the relationship between Azreya and Tecuani, as she learns to accept everything about herself, the byplay between them was stunning! Her ability to discern trustworthiness was something that I think many of us wish we could have in the day to day, and the relationship she builds with Cocotetzin after she trusts him is amazing. Going on her journey with her, I found myself hoping for success for her, and saddened when things didn’t always go as planned. If you enjoy stories with a basis in mythology, I would definitely recommend this one! Also, if you enjoy learning words in a different language, the glossary of Aztec words of Nahuatl is so interesting and I loved being able to learn new things!