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After Eden
Banished from Eden for refusing to submit, Lilith has roamed the earth, a symbol of defiance and independence. But her immortality has become a curse, as she is hunted by both heaven and hell, neither of which will allow her to exist freely.
Dax, the son of Lucifer, has lived a life filled with darkness, battling the expectations of his diabolical heritage while yearning for something that would give his existence meaning. When Dax and Lilith’s paths cross, an intense and dangerous connection is forged.
When Dax is sent to Earth to kidnap Lilith and bring her home to be his father’s bride, they find themselves drawn together by forces they can neither fully understand, nor resist. Together, they embark on a journey fraught with peril as they navigate a world of divine retribution, forbidden love, and imminent peril.
Dax, the son of Lucifer, has lived a life filled with darkness, battling the expectations of his diabolical heritage while yearning for something that would give his existence meaning. When Dax and Lilith’s paths cross, an intense and dangerous connection is forged.
When Dax is sent to Earth to kidnap Lilith and bring her home to be his father’s bride, they find themselves drawn together by forces they can neither fully understand, nor resist. Together, they embark on a journey fraught with peril as they navigate a world of divine retribution, forbidden love, and imminent peril.
347 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 15, 2025
5 people are currently reading
10 people want to read
About the author
C.L. Kowalchuk
3 books49 followersI am a Mother, wife, sister, author, mother and avid reader. I love all things old and beautiful and hold a fondness for nearly every gothic novel I read (preferably with a glass of wine.)
I have 2 published novels available on Amazon.
I have 2 published novels available on Amazon.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
January 17, 2025
This was a wild ride! I enjoyed this fantasy. Thank you C.L. Kowalchuk for allowing me to read this upcoming story.
January 18, 2025
Loved this book after reading Daughter of Bathory reading this was a done deal.
Lilith is roaming the earth after being banished from Eden for refusing to submit as you do 😂. Being immortal is a curse as she is hunted by both Heaven and Hell, Dax is the son of Lucifer and his life is filled with darkness and wanting that one thing that makes his existence bearable, Lilith and Dax meet and as you can guess sparks fly, Dax is sent to kidnap Lilith for her to be his bride will Dax do this or will he find a way to be with her himself.
Beautiful written, world building and I love Dax
Lilith is roaming the earth after being banished from Eden for refusing to submit as you do 😂. Being immortal is a curse as she is hunted by both Heaven and Hell, Dax is the son of Lucifer and his life is filled with darkness and wanting that one thing that makes his existence bearable, Lilith and Dax meet and as you can guess sparks fly, Dax is sent to kidnap Lilith for her to be his bride will Dax do this or will he find a way to be with her himself.
Beautiful written, world building and I love Dax
January 17, 2025
Absolutely loved this story. The way that the author captivates you from page one is amazing!!!! This tells the story of Dax and Lilith. Dax is sent to kidnap Lilith and bring her back to the underworld but after spending time together they start to develop feelings. But with danger on the horizon will Dax be able to save Lilith or will he lose her forever? This story will take you on a magic ride staying up all night to finish!!! Highly recommend!!!
January 20, 2025
This book was a great story for Lilith. It had a spin that wasn’t like other tails that gave us as readers a new perspective. Definitely recommend reading if you are reading this review to decide if you should.
January 18, 2025
This is a must read! I have loved each and every book that C.L. Kowalchuk has written! I highly recommend this book along with her other novels.
January 20, 2025
Wow! This was a roller coaster! I absolutely loved it!! Lilith is amazing and so is Dax!
January 16, 2025
Absolutely loved being an ARC reader for this one. Beautiful imagery, wonderful characters, slight bit of spice with a lot of taboo love. Highly recommend 10/10
August 1, 2025
Fantastic Story
I just loved the take on this story! A smooth read with gorgeous detail! Such great plot twists! I can’t wait to read more by this author! This would make a great series! I loved the world C. L. Kowalchuk built!!!
I just loved the take on this story! A smooth read with gorgeous detail! Such great plot twists! I can’t wait to read more by this author! This would make a great series! I loved the world C. L. Kowalchuk built!!!
March 12, 2025
Pleasantly surprised that I liked this book, it’s not a genre I typically read. However, I was invested in the characters and their stories very early on. I rooted for Dax in his desires to rule a land away from his father’s shadow … and his desire for Lilith.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 27, 2025
At first I was struggling with how the story started. It wasn’t bad it just felt off for some reason. And there was a scene in the beginning that mentioned a bare ass and farting which threw me off, but I didn’t let this deter me because I really enjoyed another book of hers. I’m glad I continued on because it got so much better. I loved the banter between the two main characters and loved the duel POV. 1/5🌶️
January 28, 2025
‼️please read the trigger warnings before reading this book, your mental health matters and please don’t leave a bad review if you failed to read the trigger warnings, that’s not fair to the author‼️
First and foremost, I would like to apologize to the author for taking so long to arc read this book😭 I hope you had a wonderful publication day!
If you’re looking for a Book with lots of banter with enemies to lovers and a slow burn that will have you pining for more? The look no further this book is the one you need asap!
The character development, and the feminine rage within this story is done soo beautifully that the ending will make you feel satisfied with how the fmc reclaimed her power back.
But also the character dynamic with the mmc in this storyline how he overcomes his own limitations and powers struggles with his 💩father it was just perfect!
The spice is was a 10 out of 10 for me 🫡 let’s just say daxum knows what’s he’s doing🤭 spice level is a 3 since this book is more centered around the plot with touches of spice which is totally worth it with how the author spaced it out storyline wise.
With that being said I think gyala should’ve been taken with Lucifer to hmph 👀
First and foremost, I would like to apologize to the author for taking so long to arc read this book😭 I hope you had a wonderful publication day!
If you’re looking for a Book with lots of banter with enemies to lovers and a slow burn that will have you pining for more? The look no further this book is the one you need asap!
The character development, and the feminine rage within this story is done soo beautifully that the ending will make you feel satisfied with how the fmc reclaimed her power back.
But also the character dynamic with the mmc in this storyline how he overcomes his own limitations and powers struggles with his 💩father it was just perfect!
The spice is was a 10 out of 10 for me 🫡 let’s just say daxum knows what’s he’s doing🤭 spice level is a 3 since this book is more centered around the plot with touches of spice which is totally worth it with how the author spaced it out storyline wise.
With that being said I think gyala should’ve been taken with Lucifer to hmph 👀
March 6, 2025
I can definitely say without a doubt the story did not go the way I thought it would. I enjoyed the ups and downs and the portrayal of Lilith and Lucifer. The dynamic of his sons and lovers opened up so many possibilities for future books and I can’t wait to see what more is in store for us!!!!
January 29, 2025
I loved this retelling of Lilith after she was cast away from Eden! The original is where she becomes Lucifer's wife (which was included in this), but in this story, she falls for his son. Lilith is a badass FMC who is used to taking care of herself for the last forever (she's immortal).
The depiction of Hell was really interesting. It's not a scary place, but it is at the same time. It's also exactly how I imagine a more modern Lucifer would be. Also, MMC is hot af
The depiction of Hell was really interesting. It's not a scary place, but it is at the same time. It's also exactly how I imagine a more modern Lucifer would be. Also, MMC is hot af
January 18, 2025
A dark, twisted fantasy, this literally opens some very literal gates to one world where demons, mortals, and celestial intrigue will draw one in. This is a promising opening to an epic series full of sizzling action, political intrigue, and an unforgettable enemies-to-lovers romance.
In After Eden, we are introduced to Daxum, the brooding, defiant son of Lucifer, who is reluctantly sent on a mission to kidnap Lilith, the legendary first wife of Adam. The complicated relationship between Daxum and his father, Lucifer, sets a tense backdrop for the narrative.
Lilith is not a damsel in distress-she is cunning, independent, and can hold her own. This makes the perfect explosion of the first encounter just right for Daxum: he finally meets a match in wits, in strength, in spirit.
While Daxum battles in his heart between his loyalty to his father and budding feelings for Lilith, more in-depth secrets unwrap about their destiny. The stakes get bigger as Daxum must decide to either carry on with the given mission or actually go against the Hell itself-to try redemption.
Daxum:
Daxum is the ultimate anti-hero: his turmoil in constant tug-of-war between the dark expectations of his father and what his morals demand from him. From the outside, Daxum is cold, calculated, and impossible to figure out. Glimpses of his vulnerable interior make him highly relatable. It's really an interesting arc to go from being an unwilling pawn in someone else's game to one who takes matters into his own hands and listens to his conscience.
Lilith is a force to be reckoned with. The infamous first wife of Adam, her character is shrouded in myth and mystery. Powerful and defiant, she absolutely refuses to be defined by her past or to be controlled-by anyone, for that matter, including Daxum. Quick-witted and strategic in mind, she definitely tops the ranks as a heroine, while her moments of vulnerability add layers to her character.
Lucifer:
Lucifer is personified as manipulative power because he is Daxum's father. The very controversial and bitter relation with his sons marked by pride and cruelty equally gives a long shadow to the plot.
Side Characters: From the loyal, scarred Wes to the antagonist-like Hell guards, these supporting characters give color and depth to the world in which this story takes place. Each of the characters stands for big themes: loyalty, power, rebellion.
The novel explores the dynamics of power: its appeal, its corruption, and the price paid for rebellion against it. This is captured in Daxum's rebellion against Lucifer, besides Lilith's refusal to be subdued.
Daxum's desire for freedom and Lilith's fight to be free are cardinal themes in the novel. Choices they make drive home what must be sacrificed in order to gain true freedom.
It is an identity problem embraced by both the main characters: one is Daxum, the son of Lucifer, and another is the myth known as Lilith. That journey of acceptance and self-realization does all the running toward redemption, in a way creating the very core of emotion which this entire book runs after.
Their romance-forces Daxum and Lilith to confront their vulnerabilities and question their priorities-thereby making love the transformative force in this story.
C.L. Kowalchuk's prose is atmospheric and evocative; from the very beginning, one feels the dark allure of the setting in this story. The narrative slips easily between Daxum in the first person and the vivid description of the complex political and social systems of Hell.
The tension and wit sparkle throughout the dialogue, especially when it comes to Daxum's sparring with Lilith. Everything unfolds at just about the perfect balance between frenetic action set pieces and richly nuanced character scenes. The rich and immersive world of Hell is elaborately detailed both as a torment and a den of politics.
After Eden is a darkly enchanting tale of love, power, and redemption. It introduces a richly crafted world and unforgettable characters, laying a strong foundation for the rest of the series.
Overall Rating: ★★★★☆
Writing Style: ★★★★☆
Characters: ★★★★★
World-Building: ★★★★☆
Trigger Warnings: Violence, gore, attempted rape, strong language, adult content, torture, discussion of pregnancy loss
After Eden will be devoured by readers who enjoy complex morals, lavish world-building, and high stakes in romance.
In After Eden, we are introduced to Daxum, the brooding, defiant son of Lucifer, who is reluctantly sent on a mission to kidnap Lilith, the legendary first wife of Adam. The complicated relationship between Daxum and his father, Lucifer, sets a tense backdrop for the narrative.
Lilith is not a damsel in distress-she is cunning, independent, and can hold her own. This makes the perfect explosion of the first encounter just right for Daxum: he finally meets a match in wits, in strength, in spirit.
While Daxum battles in his heart between his loyalty to his father and budding feelings for Lilith, more in-depth secrets unwrap about their destiny. The stakes get bigger as Daxum must decide to either carry on with the given mission or actually go against the Hell itself-to try redemption.
Daxum:
Daxum is the ultimate anti-hero: his turmoil in constant tug-of-war between the dark expectations of his father and what his morals demand from him. From the outside, Daxum is cold, calculated, and impossible to figure out. Glimpses of his vulnerable interior make him highly relatable. It's really an interesting arc to go from being an unwilling pawn in someone else's game to one who takes matters into his own hands and listens to his conscience.
Lilith is a force to be reckoned with. The infamous first wife of Adam, her character is shrouded in myth and mystery. Powerful and defiant, she absolutely refuses to be defined by her past or to be controlled-by anyone, for that matter, including Daxum. Quick-witted and strategic in mind, she definitely tops the ranks as a heroine, while her moments of vulnerability add layers to her character.
Lucifer:
Lucifer is personified as manipulative power because he is Daxum's father. The very controversial and bitter relation with his sons marked by pride and cruelty equally gives a long shadow to the plot.
Side Characters: From the loyal, scarred Wes to the antagonist-like Hell guards, these supporting characters give color and depth to the world in which this story takes place. Each of the characters stands for big themes: loyalty, power, rebellion.
The novel explores the dynamics of power: its appeal, its corruption, and the price paid for rebellion against it. This is captured in Daxum's rebellion against Lucifer, besides Lilith's refusal to be subdued.
Daxum's desire for freedom and Lilith's fight to be free are cardinal themes in the novel. Choices they make drive home what must be sacrificed in order to gain true freedom.
It is an identity problem embraced by both the main characters: one is Daxum, the son of Lucifer, and another is the myth known as Lilith. That journey of acceptance and self-realization does all the running toward redemption, in a way creating the very core of emotion which this entire book runs after.
Their romance-forces Daxum and Lilith to confront their vulnerabilities and question their priorities-thereby making love the transformative force in this story.
C.L. Kowalchuk's prose is atmospheric and evocative; from the very beginning, one feels the dark allure of the setting in this story. The narrative slips easily between Daxum in the first person and the vivid description of the complex political and social systems of Hell.
The tension and wit sparkle throughout the dialogue, especially when it comes to Daxum's sparring with Lilith. Everything unfolds at just about the perfect balance between frenetic action set pieces and richly nuanced character scenes. The rich and immersive world of Hell is elaborately detailed both as a torment and a den of politics.
After Eden is a darkly enchanting tale of love, power, and redemption. It introduces a richly crafted world and unforgettable characters, laying a strong foundation for the rest of the series.
Overall Rating: ★★★★☆
Writing Style: ★★★★☆
Characters: ★★★★★
World-Building: ★★★★☆
Trigger Warnings: Violence, gore, attempted rape, strong language, adult content, torture, discussion of pregnancy loss
After Eden will be devoured by readers who enjoy complex morals, lavish world-building, and high stakes in romance.
January 17, 2025
this book was my first from this author and needless to say im a fan and will be reading some of her other work.
this book follows dax, son of lucifer, who was given a task to go and kidnap Lilith. he thought it would be an easy enough task and then he would finally have everything he ever wanted. to be away from his father and have land of his own. so he sets off on this journey only to realize that it is more difficult than he thought. Lilith always alone finds out that dax is there to kidnap her but when others come after her and she is injured she has no choice but to go with him. as they travel back they both start to develop feelings. once back at lucifers she denies him his request to marriage but that doesn't stop him from being sneaky and eventually getting her to agree. dax not happy about it is distracted by the creatures that are harming his people and stuff goes very wrong and Lilith is captured. now he needs to save her but at what cost
this book follows dax, son of lucifer, who was given a task to go and kidnap Lilith. he thought it would be an easy enough task and then he would finally have everything he ever wanted. to be away from his father and have land of his own. so he sets off on this journey only to realize that it is more difficult than he thought. Lilith always alone finds out that dax is there to kidnap her but when others come after her and she is injured she has no choice but to go with him. as they travel back they both start to develop feelings. once back at lucifers she denies him his request to marriage but that doesn't stop him from being sneaky and eventually getting her to agree. dax not happy about it is distracted by the creatures that are harming his people and stuff goes very wrong and Lilith is captured. now he needs to save her but at what cost
January 17, 2025
absolutely loved this. I could not turn down the chance to be an ARC reader for Kowalchuk after enjoying her Daughter of Bathory. As an ex Christian girlie, I am here for this mythological approach and I wish I could reread this for the first time again.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews