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Sins of the Maker #1
Fallen's First
Saer—the first demon and Pride himself—exists for a single-minded purpose: harvest souls to feed the ailing Devil who made him. The same Devil to whom he has sworn a vow of absolute loyalty.
Until the demoness Neyu, incarnation of Lust, makes Saer question what he understands his existence to mean. Every touch or glance from Neyu burns through Saer—the irresistible pull between them at blatant odds with his purpose…and his vow.
One does not love another above the Devil without consequence, so when Saer surrenders to his feelings for Neyu, the Hells shriek—and he’s woefully unprepared to endure the punishment for his sins.
Until the demoness Neyu, incarnation of Lust, makes Saer question what he understands his existence to mean. Every touch or glance from Neyu burns through Saer—the irresistible pull between them at blatant odds with his purpose…and his vow.
One does not love another above the Devil without consequence, so when Saer surrenders to his feelings for Neyu, the Hells shriek—and he’s woefully unprepared to endure the punishment for his sins.
Audiobook
Published March 1, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews
October 17, 2025
4.5/5
[ARC review]
What a ride this was. I picked this book because the synopsis didn’t sound like anything I had read before, and I am so glad I did. While I’ve always loved fantasy and mythology, it had been a while since I last dove into a story rooted in the world of heaven and hell. As the title suggests, this book centers around Lucifer, the infamous fallen angel, and how he begins to build his army and shape Hell into the dark kingdom we know it as.
The story opens with the creation of Pride, Lucifer’s First and most cherished creation. The sins are introduced as his children, though there is a strange tension in the dynamic between father and master. There are seven sins, seven siblings, each crafted with their own purpose. They begin to shape Hell into something unforgiving and relentless, but are soon sent to the surface to find what their Maker requires to sustain his power.
Although the book is written in third person, we follow Saer — Pride — throughout the story. When Lust, the Second, is created, she makes immediate eye contact with Saer. They both instantly recognize a connection that goes beyond loyalty, which is complicated in a world where they are taught to love no one but their master.
The sibling hierarchy is rigid. As the First, Saer has power over all the others. The Second can control everyone except Saer, and so on. Each of them has a true name, which gives others complete control over them. Since Saer witnessed each sibling’s creation, he knows them all. I had forgotten how much I enjoy the true name trope, and this book reminded me just how powerful it can be when done right. The balance of power, the rules, and the subtle threats make the internal politics of Hell as intense as any battlefield.
While the premise is already fascinating, what really makes this book stand out are the characters. In the beginning, each of the daemonaeica is defined almost entirely by the sin they embody. But as time passes and they begin to observe humanity more closely, they begin to change. They grow, they question, they evolve. And as the author so eloquently puts it, Saer (the poor bastard) has seen it all.
The character development is intense and I definitely was not prepared for how attached I would get. This story blends so many themes effortlessly: romance, found family, coming of age, oppression, tragedy, plotting, torture, banter, and so much more. The plot is rich, but this is a character-driven story at its core.
This is the first book in a series. While I would not call the ending a cliffhanger exactly, it definitely leaves you hanging just enough to crave the next installment.
If you’re intrigued by the concept, I strongly recommend giving this a closer look!
Thank you to Kassidy Coursey, Shadow Spark Publishing and NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
___________________________________________
pre read: betraying the devil sounds very promising to me, let's see.
[ARC review]
What a ride this was. I picked this book because the synopsis didn’t sound like anything I had read before, and I am so glad I did. While I’ve always loved fantasy and mythology, it had been a while since I last dove into a story rooted in the world of heaven and hell. As the title suggests, this book centers around Lucifer, the infamous fallen angel, and how he begins to build his army and shape Hell into the dark kingdom we know it as.
The story opens with the creation of Pride, Lucifer’s First and most cherished creation. The sins are introduced as his children, though there is a strange tension in the dynamic between father and master. There are seven sins, seven siblings, each crafted with their own purpose. They begin to shape Hell into something unforgiving and relentless, but are soon sent to the surface to find what their Maker requires to sustain his power.
Although the book is written in third person, we follow Saer — Pride — throughout the story. When Lust, the Second, is created, she makes immediate eye contact with Saer. They both instantly recognize a connection that goes beyond loyalty, which is complicated in a world where they are taught to love no one but their master.
The sibling hierarchy is rigid. As the First, Saer has power over all the others. The Second can control everyone except Saer, and so on. Each of them has a true name, which gives others complete control over them. Since Saer witnessed each sibling’s creation, he knows them all. I had forgotten how much I enjoy the true name trope, and this book reminded me just how powerful it can be when done right. The balance of power, the rules, and the subtle threats make the internal politics of Hell as intense as any battlefield.
While the premise is already fascinating, what really makes this book stand out are the characters. In the beginning, each of the daemonaeica is defined almost entirely by the sin they embody. But as time passes and they begin to observe humanity more closely, they begin to change. They grow, they question, they evolve. And as the author so eloquently puts it, Saer (the poor bastard) has seen it all.
The character development is intense and I definitely was not prepared for how attached I would get. This story blends so many themes effortlessly: romance, found family, coming of age, oppression, tragedy, plotting, torture, banter, and so much more. The plot is rich, but this is a character-driven story at its core.
This is the first book in a series. While I would not call the ending a cliffhanger exactly, it definitely leaves you hanging just enough to crave the next installment.
If you’re intrigued by the concept, I strongly recommend giving this a closer look!
Thank you to Kassidy Coursey, Shadow Spark Publishing and NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
___________________________________________
pre read: betraying the devil sounds very promising to me, let's see.
May 17, 2026
Wonderfully narrated by Sami Ro, this was a fresh take on demons and their representation of The Seven Deadly Sins.
What a fantastic debut and what drew me in reading about the book was the take on the seven deadly sins portrayed as demons. Stories about demons are usually terrifying in themselves but now add a sin to their underlying personality, mind blowing combo of terror unlocked!
The story and word building were fabulous in this dark fantasy. There’s snark, spice and an emotional aspect that sneaks up on you. Again, I ran to check to one out just by hearing a little blurb about it, I hope you give it a go!
Thank you to the author, Kassidy Course, Shadow Sparks Publishing and NetGalley, for the opportunity to read this book. I received a gifted copy and am leaving my review voluntarily.
What a fantastic debut and what drew me in reading about the book was the take on the seven deadly sins portrayed as demons. Stories about demons are usually terrifying in themselves but now add a sin to their underlying personality, mind blowing combo of terror unlocked!
The story and word building were fabulous in this dark fantasy. There’s snark, spice and an emotional aspect that sneaks up on you. Again, I ran to check to one out just by hearing a little blurb about it, I hope you give it a go!
Thank you to the author, Kassidy Course, Shadow Sparks Publishing and NetGalley, for the opportunity to read this book. I received a gifted copy and am leaving my review voluntarily.
May 10, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
🌶🌶🌶
💀7 Deadly Sins, Betrayal, Tradegy, Torture
This fantasy explores darker themes with strong emotions, betrayals, and revenge. Lucifer is the villain who'll evoke strong emotions, while Saer is the protagonist you'll root for. Expect spice, a little romance, throw in some twin comedy, and loss.
I thought this was a very unique and compelling story. It's definitely not something I typically read. You will want to read this all in one weekend.
Thank you to Netgalley, Kassidy Coursey, for this ALC in exchange for my honest opinion.
🌶🌶🌶
💀7 Deadly Sins, Betrayal, Tradegy, Torture
This fantasy explores darker themes with strong emotions, betrayals, and revenge. Lucifer is the villain who'll evoke strong emotions, while Saer is the protagonist you'll root for. Expect spice, a little romance, throw in some twin comedy, and loss.
I thought this was a very unique and compelling story. It's definitely not something I typically read. You will want to read this all in one weekend.
Thank you to Netgalley, Kassidy Coursey, for this ALC in exchange for my honest opinion.
May 10, 2025
This book is a masterful debut on the dark fantasy scene! Coursey's writing is absolutely divine, with clever connections and personifications among the seven sins characters. I couldn't believe how my conviction about a certain character evolved along with the story, which is a tribute to the depth of storytelling. To that end, I was delighted by everyone in this ambitious cast of characters, and especially enjoyed the siblings' interactions. Also, Lucifer scares the piss out of me; true nightmare fuel. Certain scenes have stayed with me long after I set the book down. I need the sequel to this story immediately!!
July 23, 2024
The Seven Deadly Sins aren't without fault.
As the embodiment of Pride himself, Saer slowly learns what it means to be human.
Well written and deeply meaningful, Coursey explores the nature of the Seven Deadly sins as if they were people (well demons).
Not one for sloth, Saer's lust for a wrathful revenge drives his greed and gluttony to a point of envy, costing him much of his pride.
As the embodiment of Pride himself, Saer slowly learns what it means to be human.
Well written and deeply meaningful, Coursey explores the nature of the Seven Deadly sins as if they were people (well demons).
Not one for sloth, Saer's lust for a wrathful revenge drives his greed and gluttony to a point of envy, costing him much of his pride.
May 15, 2026
Damn this book blew me away, it was unexpected in the very best way. It draws you right in and doesn’t let go. Cannot wait for the rest of the books in this series! I know this one will be living rent free in my mind for a while. Thanks to the author, publisher and Netgalley for ruining me like this lol
So thankful to have the opportunity to revisit this story thanks to a gifted ALC from Netgalley! The narration and effects add a level of drama and immersion that really added to the story, the emotion felt more raw and I caught myself tearing up a few times, cannot wait for the next books!
So thankful to have the opportunity to revisit this story thanks to a gifted ALC from Netgalley! The narration and effects add a level of drama and immersion that really added to the story, the emotion felt more raw and I caught myself tearing up a few times, cannot wait for the next books!
May 13, 2026
Shoutout to NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for the ALC.
Fallen's First completely pulled me into its dark, infernal world from the very beginning. Kassidy Coursey took the concept of the Seven Deadly Sins and turned it into something emotional, brutal, and surprisingly intimate. The atmosphere felt so immersive, and even with the larger worldbuilding and lore, the relationships were always the heart of the story for me, especially the tension and emotional connection between Saer and Neyu.
I listened to Fallen’s First as an ALC narrated by Sami Ro and honestly the audiobook made this experience even better for me. Sami Ro really captured the emotion, tension, and darker atmosphere of the story, especially during the heavier emotional moments and all the internal conflict Saer deals with throughout the book.
What I loved most about this book was how layered the characters felt. Nobody is fully good or fully evil, and the story constantly plays in that morally gray space. The relationships, betrayals, loyalty, and emotional tension kept me hooked the entire time. I also really enjoyed the Seven Deadly Sins aspect and how Kassidy Coursey made the world feel dark, dangerous, and immersive without making the lore confusing or overwhelming.
The connection between Saer and Neyu had so much longing and emotional weight behind it that I was fully invested in them from the start. The second half especially had me flying through the audiobook because I needed to know how everything was going to unfold.
Overall this was such a strong dark fantasy debut with emotional stakes, demon lore, betrayal, forbidden feelings, and characters that constantly kept me questioning their motives. And that ending definitely has me wanting the next book immediately.
Fallen's First completely pulled me into its dark, infernal world from the very beginning. Kassidy Coursey took the concept of the Seven Deadly Sins and turned it into something emotional, brutal, and surprisingly intimate. The atmosphere felt so immersive, and even with the larger worldbuilding and lore, the relationships were always the heart of the story for me, especially the tension and emotional connection between Saer and Neyu.
I listened to Fallen’s First as an ALC narrated by Sami Ro and honestly the audiobook made this experience even better for me. Sami Ro really captured the emotion, tension, and darker atmosphere of the story, especially during the heavier emotional moments and all the internal conflict Saer deals with throughout the book.
What I loved most about this book was how layered the characters felt. Nobody is fully good or fully evil, and the story constantly plays in that morally gray space. The relationships, betrayals, loyalty, and emotional tension kept me hooked the entire time. I also really enjoyed the Seven Deadly Sins aspect and how Kassidy Coursey made the world feel dark, dangerous, and immersive without making the lore confusing or overwhelming.
The connection between Saer and Neyu had so much longing and emotional weight behind it that I was fully invested in them from the start. The second half especially had me flying through the audiobook because I needed to know how everything was going to unfold.
Overall this was such a strong dark fantasy debut with emotional stakes, demon lore, betrayal, forbidden feelings, and characters that constantly kept me questioning their motives. And that ending definitely has me wanting the next book immediately.
September 4, 2025
Coursey brings the seven deadly sins alive, sends you on a never ending journey, and puts you through an emotional ringer through the entirety of this story.
Fallen’s First drew me in from the tropes; the 7 sins portrayed as demons, unhinged devil, their (the demons) first time in human forms, a dysfunctional family, and betrayal and revenge.
What I hadn’t expected was to be thrown into several hundred years of misery, darkness, learning, and adventure throughout the entire world, but man did I fucking enjoy it.
The Fallen Angel’s first-made, Pride, builds a strong character, which makes him so hard to break. The way his (very dysfunctional) family helps him through certain hardships were LITERAL TEARJERKERS.
I also very much enjoyed the twins getting him drank. That was a solid touch.
I teared up more times than I can count throughout this story. And I genuinely cried more than once. Maybe twice. But who’s counting?
“Tell them it’s for Neyu”
As mentioned in my updates, this book was intense on the word building and storytelling. While it does have instant-lust, it will not be suitable for everyone, as it is NOT fast paced, it is not high-heat, and it is a true fantasy.
It read at a similar pace to The Knight and the Moth, and felt familiar to world building to that of Infatuated Fae series as well.
Simply put - it is a STUNNING debut. Kassidy asked me to pick a favorite demon. lol GIRL YOU THOUGHT
(It’s the twins, Gluttony and Greed. I LOVED THEM.)
Overall rating - 4.75 ⭐️ , 1.5 🌶️
Thank you so much Kassidy and team for allowing me an advanced copy of Fallen’s First! I simply cannot wait for the rest of this series!
Fallen’s First drew me in from the tropes; the 7 sins portrayed as demons, unhinged devil, their (the demons) first time in human forms, a dysfunctional family, and betrayal and revenge.
What I hadn’t expected was to be thrown into several hundred years of misery, darkness, learning, and adventure throughout the entire world, but man did I fucking enjoy it.
The Fallen Angel’s first-made, Pride, builds a strong character, which makes him so hard to break. The way his (very dysfunctional) family helps him through certain hardships were LITERAL TEARJERKERS.
I also very much enjoyed the twins getting him drank. That was a solid touch.
I teared up more times than I can count throughout this story. And I genuinely cried more than once. Maybe twice. But who’s counting?
“Tell them it’s for Neyu”
As mentioned in my updates, this book was intense on the word building and storytelling. While it does have instant-lust, it will not be suitable for everyone, as it is NOT fast paced, it is not high-heat, and it is a true fantasy.
It read at a similar pace to The Knight and the Moth, and felt familiar to world building to that of Infatuated Fae series as well.
Simply put - it is a STUNNING debut. Kassidy asked me to pick a favorite demon. lol GIRL YOU THOUGHT
(It’s the twins, Gluttony and Greed. I LOVED THEM.)
Overall rating - 4.75 ⭐️ , 1.5 🌶️
Thank you so much Kassidy and team for allowing me an advanced copy of Fallen’s First! I simply cannot wait for the rest of this series!
September 11, 2025
No cause I literally bawled my eyes out.
Fallen's First follows the demon Saer (Pride, the First of the seven sins of Hell), from his creation by Lucifer, to his exploration of love, family and the mortal world. The problem is, after him, Neyu (Lust, the Second sin) was created - and they instantly fall in love against their Maker's will.
I have NEVER seen such beauty in toxicity and angst in my LIFE. Even just the opening when Saer is creates is so haunting in his utter devotion to Lucifer despite his reservations, and the yearning??? Both Saer and Neyu yearn so much and the angst was so DOWN BAD (compliment) I cried.
The depiction of the 7 sins too?? I love how each demon (each sin) was so well embodied and so subtle yet crafted. Like when Saer was being prideful it HURT because you really understand his pride and reluctance to let it go. Similar to Envy and the rest it's so relatable and devastating at the same time.
Found family AHHH (the 7 demons are actual family 😭🥹🫶) Like this book literally tore me in two. Although I have to admit, I found the first part more interesting because we learn about mortals along with Saer, however, the second part was much more family-focused which I LOVED but also dealt with more devastation for Saer for which I CANTTTT
I need the sequel immediately because that teaser broke me. Like I just want them to be happy is that too much to ask for????????
Thank you to the author and Netgalley for the arc! This is my honest review.
Fallen's First follows the demon Saer (Pride, the First of the seven sins of Hell), from his creation by Lucifer, to his exploration of love, family and the mortal world. The problem is, after him, Neyu (Lust, the Second sin) was created - and they instantly fall in love against their Maker's will.
I have NEVER seen such beauty in toxicity and angst in my LIFE. Even just the opening when Saer is creates is so haunting in his utter devotion to Lucifer despite his reservations, and the yearning??? Both Saer and Neyu yearn so much and the angst was so DOWN BAD (compliment) I cried.
The depiction of the 7 sins too?? I love how each demon (each sin) was so well embodied and so subtle yet crafted. Like when Saer was being prideful it HURT because you really understand his pride and reluctance to let it go. Similar to Envy and the rest it's so relatable and devastating at the same time.
Found family AHHH (the 7 demons are actual family 😭🥹🫶) Like this book literally tore me in two. Although I have to admit, I found the first part more interesting because we learn about mortals along with Saer, however, the second part was much more family-focused which I LOVED but also dealt with more devastation for Saer for which I CANTTTT
I need the sequel immediately because that teaser broke me. Like I just want them to be happy is that too much to ask for????????
Thank you to the author and Netgalley for the arc! This is my honest review.
October 24, 2024
Processing grief through sin is truly what the author has portrayed here I think, and it was masterfully done.
This deliciously dark, fresh take on the seven deadly sins has me completely tethered to Saer’s journey… and especially to Luci (sorry, ladies, he’s mine). I know there’s more to his character and I can’t wait to learn more, regardless of this darkness he’s created from.
I am left with so many questions, and SO much excitement for book 2. I was sucked into this world before I even realized what a grip it held on me; devoured every word, some of which felt like flawless poetry.
And personally, so many unexpected epiphanies and emotions came with this. I loved feeling like I was solving a puzzle and attending the best kind of therapy.
And where it ended???
I’ve had book hangover for months after beta-reading. I can’t get them out of my head!!
This deliciously dark, fresh take on the seven deadly sins has me completely tethered to Saer’s journey… and especially to Luci (sorry, ladies, he’s mine). I know there’s more to his character and I can’t wait to learn more, regardless of this darkness he’s created from.
I am left with so many questions, and SO much excitement for book 2. I was sucked into this world before I even realized what a grip it held on me; devoured every word, some of which felt like flawless poetry.
And personally, so many unexpected epiphanies and emotions came with this. I loved feeling like I was solving a puzzle and attending the best kind of therapy.
And where it ended???
I’ve had book hangover for months after beta-reading. I can’t get them out of my head!!
May 7, 2026
This was an interesting read. As a romantasy I loved many qualities which I consider unique and different from the typical, “run of the mill” romantasies. First it’s a male POV throughout, which was a refreshing change. Second, the fantastical creatures are demons, but in a protagonistic light. They are the personifications of the seven deadly sins, and their creation is part of the beginning of hell itself. I really enjoyed the beginning and how the story presented the strangeness of earth and humans to the magical beings.
The narration is top rate too. There is one narrator but there are effects and different voices she does well that makes the characters come to life in my mind’s eye.
The only thing that slowed this story down was the plot line. While the MMC had motivation, I was never sure what the end goal really was. The third act was therefore confusing, and the pace slowed at that point for me. However, overall I enjoyed this book and I am invested enough to look forward to the next book in the series which is teased at the end.
I thank the author for this audiobook and I am leaving my honest review.
The narration is top rate too. There is one narrator but there are effects and different voices she does well that makes the characters come to life in my mind’s eye.
The only thing that slowed this story down was the plot line. While the MMC had motivation, I was never sure what the end goal really was. The third act was therefore confusing, and the pace slowed at that point for me. However, overall I enjoyed this book and I am invested enough to look forward to the next book in the series which is teased at the end.
I thank the author for this audiobook and I am leaving my honest review.
August 30, 2025
5, if not more stars from me! This was a captivating fantasy that makes deep connections between Saer and his siblings, who represent the 7 deadly sins. Each character, each sin, was developed so well and their personalities were easy to connect with and relate to. The journey of relationships and interactions Saer developed with humans, battling his own feelings of forbidden love vs. duty, and his progressive growth throughout the book had me a in a hold the entire time. And the world building? It was so done so well; I could envision myself there and in the moment. A real great story that left me in deep thought and fascination, I cannot wait to read the next one!
September 24, 2025
I went in expecting a dark, maybe slightly campy romp with demons and forbidden love, and instead I was floored by how layered and ambitious this debut is. Fallen’s First takes the concept of demons as incarnations of sin and turns it into something far more nuanced, weaving together forbidden romance and surprisingly emotional character growth.
At first, the characters are neatly boxed into the sins they represent, but what makes this book shine is how they evolve. As they encounter humanity, they begin to change and grow beyond the boundaries they thought defined them. While the romance between Saer and Neyu seems to be a simple instant attraction, it is so much more. Their yearning in the face of their oppression carries real weight, because it isn’t just about breaking rules, it’s about breaking away from the Devil’s absolute control and finding meaning outside of him.
The worldbuilding is complex and intriguing, with a mythology that feels familiar but completely new. You can tell the author put serious thought into this world-building and the lore. It’s ambitious, and frankly, I’m shocked this is a debut.
Structurally, it’s also doing something different. The narrative leans into Kishōtenketsu (a four-act structure that focuses on development and twist rather than constant conflict), which means the pacing feels a little unusual at times. It's a little slower in spots than you might expect, but purposefully so. Once I realized what it was doing, I appreciated the rhythm a lot more, though I can see some readers needing a beat to adjust.
Overall, this was way more emotional, thought-provoking, and unique than I expected. I signed up for demons and yearning, but what I got was a poignant exploration of loyalty, identity, and love. Kassidy Coursey has serious writing chops, and I’ll be keeping a very close eye on whatever comes next.
Thanks so much to the author and R&R Booktours for the complimentary copy. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
At first, the characters are neatly boxed into the sins they represent, but what makes this book shine is how they evolve. As they encounter humanity, they begin to change and grow beyond the boundaries they thought defined them. While the romance between Saer and Neyu seems to be a simple instant attraction, it is so much more. Their yearning in the face of their oppression carries real weight, because it isn’t just about breaking rules, it’s about breaking away from the Devil’s absolute control and finding meaning outside of him.
The worldbuilding is complex and intriguing, with a mythology that feels familiar but completely new. You can tell the author put serious thought into this world-building and the lore. It’s ambitious, and frankly, I’m shocked this is a debut.
Structurally, it’s also doing something different. The narrative leans into Kishōtenketsu (a four-act structure that focuses on development and twist rather than constant conflict), which means the pacing feels a little unusual at times. It's a little slower in spots than you might expect, but purposefully so. Once I realized what it was doing, I appreciated the rhythm a lot more, though I can see some readers needing a beat to adjust.
Overall, this was way more emotional, thought-provoking, and unique than I expected. I signed up for demons and yearning, but what I got was a poignant exploration of loyalty, identity, and love. Kassidy Coursey has serious writing chops, and I’ll be keeping a very close eye on whatever comes next.
Thanks so much to the author and R&R Booktours for the complimentary copy. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
May 7, 2026
.
I requested this advanced audiobook as I was intrigued by the description and the cover. The description felt different to what I have been reading lately, so I thought I would give it a go. All I can say is I am glad the past me decided to do this.
The story is about the creation of the seven deadly sins, but the focus is on their evolving characters, each with unique personalities and quirks, who play a huge part in the story. Saer (Pride) is the first of their kind, followed by Neyu (Lust), with whom he has an instant bond. Their Maker (Lucifer) tasks them to travel to the human world to harvest souls to feed the Devil. Throughout the book, you see each character grow. I particularly enjoyed their individual take on things and how they individually viewed hell and the human world. As the reader, you are taken along on the characters' journey as they are torn between doing their master's bidding and surrendering to their own wishes.
The narrator's voice work was fantastic, the voices were consistent, and I could tell each character apart. Some of the names and descriptions would be hard to pronounce if I were reading the book, but the narrator just glided over them without issue. Then there is Lucifer, who is referred to as the master. Sami Ro did a fantastic job on their voice because I was scared when Lucifer first spoke or got angry. There were many characters, and I felt Sami Ro promoted each of them. The narrator was clear, and it was well-paced.
The story itself was very well paced and progressed smoothly, without dragging or rushing. The story allowed me to feel a range of emotions, but none of them was “bored” From the start, I was drawn into this world of hell and humanity.
I constantly wanted to listen to more. I was listening to it on my commute to work, but I found myself putting my headphones in while walking around the shops/housework, just so I could snatch more moments with the characters.
A massive thank you to NetGalley, Victory Editing NetGalley co-op for the Audio ARC and to Kassidy Coursey,
Publish Date 19th May 2026
I requested this advanced audiobook as I was intrigued by the description and the cover. The description felt different to what I have been reading lately, so I thought I would give it a go. All I can say is I am glad the past me decided to do this.
The story is about the creation of the seven deadly sins, but the focus is on their evolving characters, each with unique personalities and quirks, who play a huge part in the story. Saer (Pride) is the first of their kind, followed by Neyu (Lust), with whom he has an instant bond. Their Maker (Lucifer) tasks them to travel to the human world to harvest souls to feed the Devil. Throughout the book, you see each character grow. I particularly enjoyed their individual take on things and how they individually viewed hell and the human world. As the reader, you are taken along on the characters' journey as they are torn between doing their master's bidding and surrendering to their own wishes.
The narrator's voice work was fantastic, the voices were consistent, and I could tell each character apart. Some of the names and descriptions would be hard to pronounce if I were reading the book, but the narrator just glided over them without issue. Then there is Lucifer, who is referred to as the master. Sami Ro did a fantastic job on their voice because I was scared when Lucifer first spoke or got angry. There were many characters, and I felt Sami Ro promoted each of them. The narrator was clear, and it was well-paced.
The story itself was very well paced and progressed smoothly, without dragging or rushing. The story allowed me to feel a range of emotions, but none of them was “bored” From the start, I was drawn into this world of hell and humanity.
I constantly wanted to listen to more. I was listening to it on my commute to work, but I found myself putting my headphones in while walking around the shops/housework, just so I could snatch more moments with the characters.
A massive thank you to NetGalley, Victory Editing NetGalley co-op for the Audio ARC and to Kassidy Coursey,
Publish Date 19th May 2026
September 21, 2025
Fallen First is a unique story about the Seven Sins, shown as demons for each one. It is deemed an Adam and Eve retelling as the story has some parallels to the original. I found the demon Saer, who represents Pride, to be the primary focus throughout the story. Saer has a task: to obtain souls, but when Neyu, Lust, enters the picture, the dynamics between the Devil and Neyu get conflicted. There are a few spice scenes, but it’s not the primary focus. Fallen First is a highly detailed story with multiple complex layers and a fair amount of descriptive world-building, giving me lots to process at the end.
Thanks to MTMC Book Tours and Author Kassidy Coursey for the gifted e-copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Thanks to MTMC Book Tours and Author Kassidy Coursey for the gifted e-copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 18, 2025
Fallen’s First by Kassidy Coursey
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
What a wild ride Saer, also known as Pride, took us on! It took a little while to get into the book because of the perspective it was written from, but once I found my groove, I was completely immersed in the world Kassidy created.
I love books that explore the seven deadly sins, and this was a truly unique take on the theme. I want to rave about the writing without revealing any spoilers.
While reading about all of what Saer was doing while avoiding going back to Hell to see Lucifer was so vividly described, and Kassidy wrote each sin character so well that you could tell which sin was speaking, I really appreciated that.
The ending!!! I wasn’t expecting it, and I’ll be eagerly awaiting the next book to be released!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
What a wild ride Saer, also known as Pride, took us on! It took a little while to get into the book because of the perspective it was written from, but once I found my groove, I was completely immersed in the world Kassidy created.
I love books that explore the seven deadly sins, and this was a truly unique take on the theme. I want to rave about the writing without revealing any spoilers.
While reading about all of what Saer was doing while avoiding going back to Hell to see Lucifer was so vividly described, and Kassidy wrote each sin character so well that you could tell which sin was speaking, I really appreciated that.
The ending!!! I wasn’t expecting it, and I’ll be eagerly awaiting the next book to be released!
May 14, 2026
4.25 Stars! Thank you NetGalley & Kassidy for the Audio Arc!
Wow. Okay, I'm not usually a fantasy reader but I've been trying to expand my horizons and read outside my comfort zone. The premise of this book caught my attention. A demon "family"? Demons falling in love? I mean, come on. Fascinating.
I had a lot of fun with this book. It took me a bit to be able to keep everything straight, and to be honest there are still characters I mix up, but I loved them all. The characters really made the story great.
I highly recommend, even if you think you don't like fantasy!
Wow. Okay, I'm not usually a fantasy reader but I've been trying to expand my horizons and read outside my comfort zone. The premise of this book caught my attention. A demon "family"? Demons falling in love? I mean, come on. Fascinating.
I had a lot of fun with this book. It took me a bit to be able to keep everything straight, and to be honest there are still characters I mix up, but I loved them all. The characters really made the story great.
I highly recommend, even if you think you don't like fantasy!
September 2, 2025
The ending of this book has me fired up!
War is coming! I really enjoyed the aspect of the 7 sins and Lucifer. Each of the characters were perfectly written to the sin they represented. You really to get to know all of their personalities. I felt like I was there with our main character and experienced everything with him! This book hurt and healed at the same time. It hits deep and really makes you think about how your emotions drive you. I can't wait to continue this story!
War is coming! I really enjoyed the aspect of the 7 sins and Lucifer. Each of the characters were perfectly written to the sin they represented. You really to get to know all of their personalities. I felt like I was there with our main character and experienced everything with him! This book hurt and healed at the same time. It hits deep and really makes you think about how your emotions drive you. I can't wait to continue this story!
April 30, 2026
First of all.
WHAT DO YOU MEAN THATS THE ENDING AND I HAVE TO WAIT FOR THE NEXT BOOK?!?!?!?
Ahem.
Anyway, this book is incredible and I’m so invested in Saer’s journey and you should really read it—if not because I said so, then because the twins are so fkn adorable and I simply cannot (hey Kass…how do you feel about fanfics 👀😂😳)
P.S. Sami Ro is a goddess and I could listen to her growl Saer’s name in Luci’s voice on repeat for months kthanksbye
WHAT DO YOU MEAN THATS THE ENDING AND I HAVE TO WAIT FOR THE NEXT BOOK?!?!?!?
Ahem.
Anyway, this book is incredible and I’m so invested in Saer’s journey and you should really read it—if not because I said so, then because the twins are so fkn adorable and I simply cannot (hey Kass…how do you feel about fanfics 👀😂😳)
P.S. Sami Ro is a goddess and I could listen to her growl Saer’s name in Luci’s voice on repeat for months kthanksbye
April 23, 2026
I haven’t read too many books with demons, so I was immediately intrigued by this book’s blurb and ended up really enjoying Fallen’s First! I love forbidden romances and dark romanatsy and this one had both. Fallen’s First is an Adam and Eve retelling, but with the seven deadly sins instead! Saer (Pride) is Lucifer’s loyal foot soldier, but that loyalty begins to be questioned when he notices Neyu (Lust). I listened this one as an audiobook and the narration was also done really well.
Tropes in this one include:
🖤 Forbidden Romance
❤️ Demons
🖤 Dark Fantasy
❤️ Betrayal and revenge
I will definitely be keeping an eye out for the next book! Thank you NetGalley and Kassidy Coursey for this ALC of Fallen’s First.
Tropes in this one include:
🖤 Forbidden Romance
❤️ Demons
🖤 Dark Fantasy
❤️ Betrayal and revenge
I will definitely be keeping an eye out for the next book! Thank you NetGalley and Kassidy Coursey for this ALC of Fallen’s First.
October 1, 2025
Rating: ★★.75 (2.5/5)
I loved the idea of the premise (7 deadly sins as actual beings experiencing humanity) 👀 it sounded so unique!
But… the execution just didn’t grab me. The pacing was a little slow (IMO) and I couldn’t quite connect with either Saer (Pride) or Neyu (Lust). Their romance felt repetitive, and I actually found myself rooting for them to be apart 🤷🏻♀️🥹
While I appreciate the creativity of the concept and can see why others are enjoying it, this one just wasn’t for me. Sadly, I don’t think I’ll be continuing with book two.
With Love,
MnM✨
I loved the idea of the premise (7 deadly sins as actual beings experiencing humanity) 👀 it sounded so unique!
But… the execution just didn’t grab me. The pacing was a little slow (IMO) and I couldn’t quite connect with either Saer (Pride) or Neyu (Lust). Their romance felt repetitive, and I actually found myself rooting for them to be apart 🤷🏻♀️🥹
While I appreciate the creativity of the concept and can see why others are enjoying it, this one just wasn’t for me. Sadly, I don’t think I’ll be continuing with book two.
With Love,
MnM✨
October 6, 2025
You guys, I absolutely loved this book. This was such a unique twist on the seven deadly sins, and Kassidy Coursey did it so beautifully! This story was different than I was expecting, but I am so glad that it was. It completely exceeded all my expectations!
I knew I wanted to read this one as soon as I read the synopsis for the first time. Everything about this story felt new and unique compared to everything I usually read. This books centers around Lucifer creating hell and his army of demons, and all of them are an embodiment of one of the seven deadly sins. From there, we primarily follow Saer - Pride - while he harvests human souls to deliver to Lucifer.
This story offers us so much - there’s romance, banter, found family, forbidden love, tragedy, betrayal, revenge, and so much more. The character development that we see, especially in Saer, was so well done. The longer our demons remain in their human bodies, the more they’re able to observe humanity. As one would expect, this leads to growth as the demons evolve with humanity and begin to question certain aspects of their being. The plot itself is great, but at its heart this story is driven by the characters.
Fallen’s First is Book 1 of the Sins of the Maker series, and I am already dying for Book 2. If you’re looking for a darker fantasy that will make you stop and think periodically while reading it but also makes you feel all the things, then you should definitely read this book.
Thank you so much again to Kassidy Coursey and Twisted Tales PR for the gifted copy of this amazing book! 🔥
I knew I wanted to read this one as soon as I read the synopsis for the first time. Everything about this story felt new and unique compared to everything I usually read. This books centers around Lucifer creating hell and his army of demons, and all of them are an embodiment of one of the seven deadly sins. From there, we primarily follow Saer - Pride - while he harvests human souls to deliver to Lucifer.
This story offers us so much - there’s romance, banter, found family, forbidden love, tragedy, betrayal, revenge, and so much more. The character development that we see, especially in Saer, was so well done. The longer our demons remain in their human bodies, the more they’re able to observe humanity. As one would expect, this leads to growth as the demons evolve with humanity and begin to question certain aspects of their being. The plot itself is great, but at its heart this story is driven by the characters.
Fallen’s First is Book 1 of the Sins of the Maker series, and I am already dying for Book 2. If you’re looking for a darker fantasy that will make you stop and think periodically while reading it but also makes you feel all the things, then you should definitely read this book.
Thank you so much again to Kassidy Coursey and Twisted Tales PR for the gifted copy of this amazing book! 🔥
September 8, 2025
8I recieved this ARC from netgalley in exchange for my opiniom. All views and thoughts are my own.
Interested in finding out how the original seven sins came to be? This is the book for you! Saer was the first; Pride and the devils first 'son'. His kin came about slowly after him, the embodiment of the seven sins, gluttony. Lust. Sloth ect. This book explores the relationship of the siblings deeply and is captivating. Written in third person we get to see how Saer and the other sins shape Hell and interact with humanity as well as see their stories as broken beings . And although he is not human, Saer is shaped by humanity greatly, tasked with finding 'something" to help Lucifer get back to full strength. Think souls but much darker. Kassidy Coursey has a talent for painting a vivid scene where you can almost reach out and feel the heat of the hellfire. This book will appeal to readers who like their romance a little darker, no fluffy, cozy lovestory here. This book is raw and dark. It grips you and doesn't let up until the last page. I definitely don't want to give too much away but I enjoyed the conflict and the male main character coming into his own and taking control of his life, his power and his own destiny
Interested in finding out how the original seven sins came to be? This is the book for you! Saer was the first; Pride and the devils first 'son'. His kin came about slowly after him, the embodiment of the seven sins, gluttony. Lust. Sloth ect. This book explores the relationship of the siblings deeply and is captivating. Written in third person we get to see how Saer and the other sins shape Hell and interact with humanity as well as see their stories as broken beings . And although he is not human, Saer is shaped by humanity greatly, tasked with finding 'something" to help Lucifer get back to full strength. Think souls but much darker. Kassidy Coursey has a talent for painting a vivid scene where you can almost reach out and feel the heat of the hellfire. This book will appeal to readers who like their romance a little darker, no fluffy, cozy lovestory here. This book is raw and dark. It grips you and doesn't let up until the last page. I definitely don't want to give too much away but I enjoyed the conflict and the male main character coming into his own and taking control of his life, his power and his own destiny
April 4, 2025
This book eviscerated me in the best way. FALLEN’S FIRST is at the same time an origin story, a love story, a revenge story, and a dysfunctional found(ish) family story, all while following our quasi-antihero in a simultaneous redemption and corruption arc. Contradictory? Maybe. But it’s true, and Coursey navigates this so expertly I cannot believe this is her debut novel.
Not only is her prose scrumptious, her characters flying off the page, but the way she delivers the story of Lucifer’s seven Daemoenica makes me feel like I’ve gotten ahold of the true origin story of The Hells. Like the hidden manuscript of what truly transpired to create the Seven Deadly Sins was hidden in Coursey’s crypt all along. The Daemoenica now follow me along throughout my day, whether it be thinking of the twins, Gluttony and Greed, when I spot twins out and about, or thinking of Queen Wrath herself when witnessing an enraged interaction, or telling myself to be less of an Errshek when I find myself being envious.
Following a Kishōtenketsu structure, FALLEN’S FIRST brings up achingly apt allegory for human nature by juxtaposing it with sinful urges that are dripping with spontaneity and chaos, yet Coursey’s beautiful narrative borders on literary at times. Coursey is able to craft subplots that draw you in at the micro level, have you rooting for the “NPCs” and then leaves you distraught as we’re brought back to the main plot, quickly recovering and invested in the larger arc with no whiplash. To say this book was a rollercoaster ride would be the understatement of the year. I haven’t been this devastated over fictional characters in a long time.
FALLEN’S FIRST is as unputdownable as they get. The only thing that’s more impossible than putting this book down, is trying to describe its brilliance in a single review. I could go on rants about the absolute compulsion I felt to keep reading, and the way I yelled “no!” at certain points, and again when it was over. I want to keep this spoiler-free, but I truly felt like I’d been to the edges of the earth, down to The Hells and back, many times over by the time I finished, that’s how good Coursey is with her settings. There’s a richness in the way Coursey has crafted the Daemoenica and their particular way of interacting with the surface world that is hard to articulate without spoiling. There’s almost a hint of magical realism every time we learn of a new way one of the demons has infiltrated our world, showcasing yet again Coursey’s ingenuity with how she writes a second world fantasy that still somehow intersects and includes our world within it. This book is a masterclass in expertly executed complex layering.
FALLEN’S FIRST is as haunting as it is captivating, as poignant as it is entertaining. Coursey has created an addictive canon that will leave readers gasping for air and begging for more.
Not only is her prose scrumptious, her characters flying off the page, but the way she delivers the story of Lucifer’s seven Daemoenica makes me feel like I’ve gotten ahold of the true origin story of The Hells. Like the hidden manuscript of what truly transpired to create the Seven Deadly Sins was hidden in Coursey’s crypt all along. The Daemoenica now follow me along throughout my day, whether it be thinking of the twins, Gluttony and Greed, when I spot twins out and about, or thinking of Queen Wrath herself when witnessing an enraged interaction, or telling myself to be less of an Errshek when I find myself being envious.
Following a Kishōtenketsu structure, FALLEN’S FIRST brings up achingly apt allegory for human nature by juxtaposing it with sinful urges that are dripping with spontaneity and chaos, yet Coursey’s beautiful narrative borders on literary at times. Coursey is able to craft subplots that draw you in at the micro level, have you rooting for the “NPCs” and then leaves you distraught as we’re brought back to the main plot, quickly recovering and invested in the larger arc with no whiplash. To say this book was a rollercoaster ride would be the understatement of the year. I haven’t been this devastated over fictional characters in a long time.
FALLEN’S FIRST is as unputdownable as they get. The only thing that’s more impossible than putting this book down, is trying to describe its brilliance in a single review. I could go on rants about the absolute compulsion I felt to keep reading, and the way I yelled “no!” at certain points, and again when it was over. I want to keep this spoiler-free, but I truly felt like I’d been to the edges of the earth, down to The Hells and back, many times over by the time I finished, that’s how good Coursey is with her settings. There’s a richness in the way Coursey has crafted the Daemoenica and their particular way of interacting with the surface world that is hard to articulate without spoiling. There’s almost a hint of magical realism every time we learn of a new way one of the demons has infiltrated our world, showcasing yet again Coursey’s ingenuity with how she writes a second world fantasy that still somehow intersects and includes our world within it. This book is a masterclass in expertly executed complex layering.
FALLEN’S FIRST is as haunting as it is captivating, as poignant as it is entertaining. Coursey has created an addictive canon that will leave readers gasping for air and begging for more.
September 24, 2025
I received this ARC in an exchange for an honest review.
Fallen’s First by Kassidy Coursey is a dark fantasy retelling of the biblical story of Adam and Eve but using the Seven Deadly Sins of Hell instead. The story follows Saer, the demon of Pride, and his siblings as they carry out Lucifer’s command: to harvest human souls that will fuel the creation of his infernal army. Each demon is bound to serve Lucifer without question, and to love and worship him above all others. But Saer begins to defy that order when he falls for Neyu (Lust) and enters a forbidden relationship that threatens not only the two of them, but their entire demonic kin if Lucifer discovers the betrayal.
I was lucky enough to beta read this book back in 2023, and I loved it then. Reading it again now, I love it even more. The writing is tight, the characters are vivid, and the emotional depth lingers long after you’ve put the book down.
At its core, Fallen’s First explores the question of blind loyalty. It asks that when someone holds authority over you, should it bring with it your obedience, even when a command goes against your conscience. The story also digs into how people tend to shift blame downward, often targeting the powerless instead of holding those at the top accountable.
As for the banter, there’s so much of it. Watching the dynamics between the demons is a highlight, especially the twins Alus and Arek, who love to get under Saer’s skin.
Overall, I truly loved this book. It’s the first in a trilogy, and I highly recommend you read it if you love dark fantasy, forbidden romance, and a “found family” of colourful demons.
Fallen’s First by Kassidy Coursey is a dark fantasy retelling of the biblical story of Adam and Eve but using the Seven Deadly Sins of Hell instead. The story follows Saer, the demon of Pride, and his siblings as they carry out Lucifer’s command: to harvest human souls that will fuel the creation of his infernal army. Each demon is bound to serve Lucifer without question, and to love and worship him above all others. But Saer begins to defy that order when he falls for Neyu (Lust) and enters a forbidden relationship that threatens not only the two of them, but their entire demonic kin if Lucifer discovers the betrayal.
I was lucky enough to beta read this book back in 2023, and I loved it then. Reading it again now, I love it even more. The writing is tight, the characters are vivid, and the emotional depth lingers long after you’ve put the book down.
At its core, Fallen’s First explores the question of blind loyalty. It asks that when someone holds authority over you, should it bring with it your obedience, even when a command goes against your conscience. The story also digs into how people tend to shift blame downward, often targeting the powerless instead of holding those at the top accountable.
As for the banter, there’s so much of it. Watching the dynamics between the demons is a highlight, especially the twins Alus and Arek, who love to get under Saer’s skin.
Overall, I truly loved this book. It’s the first in a trilogy, and I highly recommend you read it if you love dark fantasy, forbidden romance, and a “found family” of colourful demons.
May 13, 2026
I went into *Fallen's First* expecting an interesting dark fantasy, but what I got was a deeply emotional and addictive descent into a twisted version of Heaven, Hell, and everything in between. The premise alone immediately stood out to me. Centering the story around Lucifer and the rise of Hell through the creation of the Seven Deadly Sins felt fresh, ambitious, and unlike anything I’ve picked up in a long time.
The novel begins with the birth of Saer, Pride and Lucifer’s first creation, setting the tone for the brutal and power-driven world that follows. The daemonaeica are introduced not simply as embodiments of sin, but as beings crafted with purpose, loyalty, and control woven into every part of their existence. Each sibling holds authority over the ones beneath them, creating a constant undercurrent of tension and fear within their hierarchy. What made it even more compelling was the concept of true names and the absolute power tied to them. That element added such an intense layer to the relationships and politics within Hell, making every interaction feel dangerous and deliberate.
Even though the story is told through third person narration, Saer’s perspective dominates the experience, and honestly, he carried the emotional core of the book beautifully. Watching him evolve from a being shaped entirely by obedience into someone capable of questioning everything around him was fascinating. When Neyu, Lust and the Second, enters the story, the connection between them is immediate and impossible to ignore. Their bond is filled with restraint, longing, and emotional conflict, especially in a world where devotion is meant to belong only to Lucifer. The chemistry between Saer and Neyu felt raw and consuming without ever overpowering the plot itself.
What impressed me most was how the characters gradually changed through exposure to humanity. At first, the siblings seem almost entirely ruled by the sins they represent, but over time they become far more layered and unpredictable. Loyalty shifts, emotions deepen, and moral lines blur in ways that constantly kept me invested. Nobody in this story feels entirely innocent or entirely monstrous, and that morally gray atmosphere made every betrayal, alliance, and emotional moment hit harder.
Kassidy Coursey created a version of Hell that feels cruel, immersive, and alive without drowning the reader in overwhelming lore. The worldbuilding is rich, but the heart of the story always comes back to the characters and their relationships with one another. Themes of forbidden attachment, identity, control, found family, manipulation, grief, and survival are woven naturally into the narrative, making the emotional stakes feel just as important as the larger conflict unfolding around them.
I also had the chance to experience the audiobook version narrated by Sami Ro, and the performance added so much depth to the story. The narration captured the darker tone perfectly while also bringing out the vulnerability and internal conflict within Saer’s character. The emotional scenes especially carried so much weight in audio format that I found myself completely unable to stop listening during the second half.
By the time the ending arrived, I was fully attached to these characters and desperate to know what comes next. While the book doesn’t end on a massive cliffhanger, it leaves enough unresolved tension and anticipation to make the wait for the sequel feel painful in the best way possible.
Overall, *Fallen's First* is an incredibly strong dark fantasy debut filled with emotional complexity, demon lore, forbidden connections, shifting loyalties, and unforgettable characters. If you enjoy character-driven fantasy with darker themes, layered relationships, and immersive infernal worldbuilding, this is absolutely worth picking up.
The novel begins with the birth of Saer, Pride and Lucifer’s first creation, setting the tone for the brutal and power-driven world that follows. The daemonaeica are introduced not simply as embodiments of sin, but as beings crafted with purpose, loyalty, and control woven into every part of their existence. Each sibling holds authority over the ones beneath them, creating a constant undercurrent of tension and fear within their hierarchy. What made it even more compelling was the concept of true names and the absolute power tied to them. That element added such an intense layer to the relationships and politics within Hell, making every interaction feel dangerous and deliberate.
Even though the story is told through third person narration, Saer’s perspective dominates the experience, and honestly, he carried the emotional core of the book beautifully. Watching him evolve from a being shaped entirely by obedience into someone capable of questioning everything around him was fascinating. When Neyu, Lust and the Second, enters the story, the connection between them is immediate and impossible to ignore. Their bond is filled with restraint, longing, and emotional conflict, especially in a world where devotion is meant to belong only to Lucifer. The chemistry between Saer and Neyu felt raw and consuming without ever overpowering the plot itself.
What impressed me most was how the characters gradually changed through exposure to humanity. At first, the siblings seem almost entirely ruled by the sins they represent, but over time they become far more layered and unpredictable. Loyalty shifts, emotions deepen, and moral lines blur in ways that constantly kept me invested. Nobody in this story feels entirely innocent or entirely monstrous, and that morally gray atmosphere made every betrayal, alliance, and emotional moment hit harder.
Kassidy Coursey created a version of Hell that feels cruel, immersive, and alive without drowning the reader in overwhelming lore. The worldbuilding is rich, but the heart of the story always comes back to the characters and their relationships with one another. Themes of forbidden attachment, identity, control, found family, manipulation, grief, and survival are woven naturally into the narrative, making the emotional stakes feel just as important as the larger conflict unfolding around them.
I also had the chance to experience the audiobook version narrated by Sami Ro, and the performance added so much depth to the story. The narration captured the darker tone perfectly while also bringing out the vulnerability and internal conflict within Saer’s character. The emotional scenes especially carried so much weight in audio format that I found myself completely unable to stop listening during the second half.
By the time the ending arrived, I was fully attached to these characters and desperate to know what comes next. While the book doesn’t end on a massive cliffhanger, it leaves enough unresolved tension and anticipation to make the wait for the sequel feel painful in the best way possible.
Overall, *Fallen's First* is an incredibly strong dark fantasy debut filled with emotional complexity, demon lore, forbidden connections, shifting loyalties, and unforgettable characters. If you enjoy character-driven fantasy with darker themes, layered relationships, and immersive infernal worldbuilding, this is absolutely worth picking up.
April 30, 2026
First and foremost.... *standing ovation* for both Kassidy Coursey & Sami Ro.
Kassidy & Sami Ro have woven the tale of sins, Pride, Lust, Greed & Gluttony, Wrath, Envy, and Sloth in such a way that had me ensnared within its web from the first chapter. Each string of drama, laughter, betrayal, tragedy, and even healing wraps you in a blanket of magic and wonder, anticipation, and frustration. I don't remember the last time a story had me so anxious to finish.
~ My personal opinions & Spoilers from here down~
The love between Saer and Neyu... the dedication, growth and the loyalty between these two, is something alot of us want in a relationship. Someone who stays despite the flaws, someone who listens and grows with you, not against you, someone... willing to sacrifice themselves for you, for your family, no matter how much it hurts..
Greed & Gluttony, the familiarity, the unbreakable bond, the strength they derive from one another, gives us the smallest glimpse into what life would be like with someone as an equal in every way that matters. Someone to ground our chaos, someone to brighten our gloom, the light to our dark, the sun to our moon...
Wrath is... the person many of wish we could be, fierce, confidant in our abilities, unafraid of another soul, and ready to take any challenge head on without a doubt in our mind that we will come out on top.
Envy is... the parts of us we wish we could unmake. The pieces of us that we wish didn't exist. Yet no less us. No less worthy of loving than the rest of everything that makes us who we are. The bitter, ugly parts are no less worth loving.
Sloth is.. the child in us all. The one who should have been protected at all costs, yet had to grow up way too fast, with the weight of the world on our shoulders and it feeling like sometimes we have to be the strongest of all, despite being soft & small...
The story woven between each of these characters confronts pieces of ourselves that we all possess, the pride in our accomplishments, the lust of the things we desire, the greed of wanting more, the indulgence of what we do have, the anger we feel, the envy we feel when we know we deserve the world, and yet... and the overwhelming exhaustion we feel when we just want to rest.
This book broke me and healed me in ways that I did not expect. For this to be my first fully listened audiobook, it has set a bar so high, i don't know how many others will compare.
Sami did a PHENOMONAL job portraying each character in ways that made them unique, and I never had to guess which of the 8 main characters were speaking. She quite literally deserves an award for this performance and I hope & pray one day she gets it. I'm definitely going to be putting the manifesting vibes out there for her work in this audiobook.
Kassidy, you dear human.... I want to cry, hug you, smooch your face, and cry again, and rage at the stars over what you have put my new favorite little book babies through, but please don't ever stop making magic. This was such a unique twist on these tales and the way you combined them into something new of your own is nothing short of amazing and so worthy of the praise.
To Sami & Kassidy - I cannot wait to hear the rest of the series, I honestly don't know what to do with myself while i wait. Patience was never my strongsuit so expect all the theories and fangirling over just this one in the meantime. I hope you both continue to bring each and every book/ universe/world alive together. You truly are an amazing pair, and I couldnt have asked for a better first audiobook. ❤️
Kassidy & Sami Ro have woven the tale of sins, Pride, Lust, Greed & Gluttony, Wrath, Envy, and Sloth in such a way that had me ensnared within its web from the first chapter. Each string of drama, laughter, betrayal, tragedy, and even healing wraps you in a blanket of magic and wonder, anticipation, and frustration. I don't remember the last time a story had me so anxious to finish.
~ My personal opinions & Spoilers from here down~
The love between Saer and Neyu... the dedication, growth and the loyalty between these two, is something alot of us want in a relationship. Someone who stays despite the flaws, someone who listens and grows with you, not against you, someone... willing to sacrifice themselves for you, for your family, no matter how much it hurts..
Greed & Gluttony, the familiarity, the unbreakable bond, the strength they derive from one another, gives us the smallest glimpse into what life would be like with someone as an equal in every way that matters. Someone to ground our chaos, someone to brighten our gloom, the light to our dark, the sun to our moon...
Wrath is... the person many of wish we could be, fierce, confidant in our abilities, unafraid of another soul, and ready to take any challenge head on without a doubt in our mind that we will come out on top.
Envy is... the parts of us we wish we could unmake. The pieces of us that we wish didn't exist. Yet no less us. No less worthy of loving than the rest of everything that makes us who we are. The bitter, ugly parts are no less worth loving.
Sloth is.. the child in us all. The one who should have been protected at all costs, yet had to grow up way too fast, with the weight of the world on our shoulders and it feeling like sometimes we have to be the strongest of all, despite being soft & small...
The story woven between each of these characters confronts pieces of ourselves that we all possess, the pride in our accomplishments, the lust of the things we desire, the greed of wanting more, the indulgence of what we do have, the anger we feel, the envy we feel when we know we deserve the world, and yet... and the overwhelming exhaustion we feel when we just want to rest.
This book broke me and healed me in ways that I did not expect. For this to be my first fully listened audiobook, it has set a bar so high, i don't know how many others will compare.
Sami did a PHENOMONAL job portraying each character in ways that made them unique, and I never had to guess which of the 8 main characters were speaking. She quite literally deserves an award for this performance and I hope & pray one day she gets it. I'm definitely going to be putting the manifesting vibes out there for her work in this audiobook.
Kassidy, you dear human.... I want to cry, hug you, smooch your face, and cry again, and rage at the stars over what you have put my new favorite little book babies through, but please don't ever stop making magic. This was such a unique twist on these tales and the way you combined them into something new of your own is nothing short of amazing and so worthy of the praise.
To Sami & Kassidy - I cannot wait to hear the rest of the series, I honestly don't know what to do with myself while i wait. Patience was never my strongsuit so expect all the theories and fangirling over just this one in the meantime. I hope you both continue to bring each and every book/ universe/world alive together. You truly are an amazing pair, and I couldnt have asked for a better first audiobook. ❤️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 23, 2026
This is my first TRUE FIVE STAR read of the year! I listened to an advanced copy of the audiobook, which is releasing in May 2026, although the ebook has been out since September - and I am going to literally recommend this to EVERYONE!
I was honestly not sure what to expect when I started the book, but the premise sounded thoroughly original - and it exceeded ALL expectations! The main character is an original demon, the embodiment of the first sin of Pride. Pride leads his demonic siblings in their primary objective - to harvest human souls for their Maker. As the centuries pass, the demons find themselves constantly adapting and evolving in order to better understand and manipulate their human prey - but living amongst the humans takes its own toll. Pride finds himself struggling with his sense of identity and purpose, with his desires, and his increasing feelings of resentment towards Lucifer…
The writing was truly impeccable - intelligent, purposeful, and engaging. Ms. Coursey crafts a beautiful world, giving us glimpses of magic and creatures and cultures that are both familiar and fantastical. You really feel as if this story is woven into the fabric of our own human history, while still feeling fresh and unique. She explores the themes of humanity and self-determination in a way that is thought provoking, but still accessible. This book makes you FEEL side by side with the demons, through every bit of joy and pain (and there is plenty of both.) With this stunning debut novel, I know now that Ms. Coursey will become one of my auto-buy authors, and I am a fan for life.
Now, as I listened to this as an audiobook, I do want to take time to review that format specifically. The narrator, Sami Ro, did a marvelous job bringing all of the demons to life. I particularly loved her characterization of the twins (Greed and Gluttony). The novel has many dialogue heavy chapters, yet there was never any difficulty keeping track of who was who during the scenes. The production value was high, and the audio effects used to give that other worldly/demonic tone to Lucifer (and some of the other characters) was effective without being campy. I highly recommend the audiobook to anyone that wants to experience the book, but may be intimidated by the length of the written versions.
Overall, this novel is officially joining my GOD-TIER fantasy series - right up there with the Wheel of Time and Kushiel’s Legacy series. I literally CANNOT wait for the next book to come out later this year!
Thanks to Netgalley, the author, and the narrator for an advanced copy of the audiobook.
I was honestly not sure what to expect when I started the book, but the premise sounded thoroughly original - and it exceeded ALL expectations! The main character is an original demon, the embodiment of the first sin of Pride. Pride leads his demonic siblings in their primary objective - to harvest human souls for their Maker. As the centuries pass, the demons find themselves constantly adapting and evolving in order to better understand and manipulate their human prey - but living amongst the humans takes its own toll. Pride finds himself struggling with his sense of identity and purpose, with his desires, and his increasing feelings of resentment towards Lucifer…
The writing was truly impeccable - intelligent, purposeful, and engaging. Ms. Coursey crafts a beautiful world, giving us glimpses of magic and creatures and cultures that are both familiar and fantastical. You really feel as if this story is woven into the fabric of our own human history, while still feeling fresh and unique. She explores the themes of humanity and self-determination in a way that is thought provoking, but still accessible. This book makes you FEEL side by side with the demons, through every bit of joy and pain (and there is plenty of both.) With this stunning debut novel, I know now that Ms. Coursey will become one of my auto-buy authors, and I am a fan for life.
Now, as I listened to this as an audiobook, I do want to take time to review that format specifically. The narrator, Sami Ro, did a marvelous job bringing all of the demons to life. I particularly loved her characterization of the twins (Greed and Gluttony). The novel has many dialogue heavy chapters, yet there was never any difficulty keeping track of who was who during the scenes. The production value was high, and the audio effects used to give that other worldly/demonic tone to Lucifer (and some of the other characters) was effective without being campy. I highly recommend the audiobook to anyone that wants to experience the book, but may be intimidated by the length of the written versions.
Overall, this novel is officially joining my GOD-TIER fantasy series - right up there with the Wheel of Time and Kushiel’s Legacy series. I literally CANNOT wait for the next book to come out later this year!
Thanks to Netgalley, the author, and the narrator for an advanced copy of the audiobook.
September 4, 2025
✨Arc Review✨
Thank you to the author Kassidy Coursey for sending me this digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
-All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Dark, Spicy, and Utterly Addictive – A Sinfully Good Debut
Fallen’s First by Kassidy Coursey isn’t just a dark fantasy—it’s a descent into temptation, power, and the seductive weight of sin. This book gripped me from the first page and refused to let go, dragging me through a world where the Seven Deadly Sins aren’t just metaphors—they’re real, dangerous, and devastatingly alluring.
The writing is sharp, lyrical, and immersive. Kassidy Coursey has a gift for painting vivid, unsettling imagery that lingers in your mind. Some scenes are so dark and emotionally charged, I had to pause and sit with what I just read. And let’s talk about the spice—this isn’t your average slow-burn. It’s intense, unflinching, and toeing the line between pleasure and power in all the right (and sometimes terrifying) ways.
Lucifer, the male lead, is pure nightmare fuel—but the kind you can’t stop thinking about. He’s dominant, cruel, magnetic, and utterly fascinating. There’s a complexity to him that goes beyond “bad boy” tropes; he’s layered with ancient pain, godlike arrogance, and a dangerously seductive charisma. He doesn't just take control—he owns the page whenever he appears.
This is not a fluffy fantasy romance. It’s for readers who crave dark themes, complex power dynamics, morally gray characters, and spice that pushes boundaries. If you're into books where you're constantly asking yourself “Should I love this?” even as you can’t stop reading—then Fallen’s First is your next obsession.
Certain scenes will live rent-free in my head for a long time. I need the sequel like yesterday.
😈 Sins as Characters – The Seven Deadly Sins are personified as demons with unique personalities and power.
🔥 Dominant Male Lead – Lucifer is a powerful, commanding presence who exudes dark, dangerous dominance.
🌶️ Dark Romance / Spicy Content – Steamy, intense scenes with heavy emotional and psychological tension.
👁️🗨️ Psychological Warfare – Mind games, manipulation, and mental/emotional push-pull.
💔 Emotional Damage / Angsty Backstories – Characters who are broken, bitter, and beautifully written.
🌑 Dark Fantasy Worldbuilding – A rich, eerie setting filled with supernatural politics and danger.
Thank you to the author Kassidy Coursey for sending me this digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
-All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Dark, Spicy, and Utterly Addictive – A Sinfully Good Debut
Fallen’s First by Kassidy Coursey isn’t just a dark fantasy—it’s a descent into temptation, power, and the seductive weight of sin. This book gripped me from the first page and refused to let go, dragging me through a world where the Seven Deadly Sins aren’t just metaphors—they’re real, dangerous, and devastatingly alluring.
The writing is sharp, lyrical, and immersive. Kassidy Coursey has a gift for painting vivid, unsettling imagery that lingers in your mind. Some scenes are so dark and emotionally charged, I had to pause and sit with what I just read. And let’s talk about the spice—this isn’t your average slow-burn. It’s intense, unflinching, and toeing the line between pleasure and power in all the right (and sometimes terrifying) ways.
Lucifer, the male lead, is pure nightmare fuel—but the kind you can’t stop thinking about. He’s dominant, cruel, magnetic, and utterly fascinating. There’s a complexity to him that goes beyond “bad boy” tropes; he’s layered with ancient pain, godlike arrogance, and a dangerously seductive charisma. He doesn't just take control—he owns the page whenever he appears.
This is not a fluffy fantasy romance. It’s for readers who crave dark themes, complex power dynamics, morally gray characters, and spice that pushes boundaries. If you're into books where you're constantly asking yourself “Should I love this?” even as you can’t stop reading—then Fallen’s First is your next obsession.
Certain scenes will live rent-free in my head for a long time. I need the sequel like yesterday.
😈 Sins as Characters – The Seven Deadly Sins are personified as demons with unique personalities and power.
🔥 Dominant Male Lead – Lucifer is a powerful, commanding presence who exudes dark, dangerous dominance.
🌶️ Dark Romance / Spicy Content – Steamy, intense scenes with heavy emotional and psychological tension.
👁️🗨️ Psychological Warfare – Mind games, manipulation, and mental/emotional push-pull.
💔 Emotional Damage / Angsty Backstories – Characters who are broken, bitter, and beautifully written.
🌑 Dark Fantasy Worldbuilding – A rich, eerie setting filled with supernatural politics and danger.
September 17, 2025
10/10.
Yeah. I’m not okay.
This book is something else. I knew before even starting that I would love Fallen’s First, but, oh man, did I severely underestimate by how much.
Saer, Pride himself, took me on a fucking rollercoaster ride instead of a cutesy journey. I laughed, cried, screamed, you name it. I had a love/hate relationship with him from start to finish, and I couldn’t get enough of it. I lost count of how many times I went from calling him a bitch to saying “yummy” whenever he growled.
Being a HUGE character nerd (to the point where I can’t continue a story unless I latch onto a character and fangirl over them), I think where Coursey shines the most IS the characters. I’ve always been a sucker for stories involving the seven deadly sins. But it’s so hard to find ones where the author SHOWS us their sins as opposed to just constantly explaining it to us through dialogue.
Examples from Fallen’s First:
-Sloth wanting to automate interactions.
-Pride not wanting to admit fault.
-Gluttony devouring leftovers without anyone noticing.
These are qualities Coursey SHOWED instead of saying, “Yeah, Sloth is lazy and doesn’t want to do anything so she wants less work.”
This is what truly sucked me in almost immediately. Her writing is exquisite.
The plot itself is so interesting, too. The first, maybe, third of the book focuses on world-building and character building (HA. LITERALLY.). We spend a good chunk of time getting to know Saer (maybe calling him a bitch here and there) and getting a feel of how everyone and everything works in Coursey’s world. However… once you get about halfway through the book… yeah, good luck putting it down. I took my time absorbing everything and just enjoying my time with Saer, and then I hit the last page. Huh?
Anyway, I’m ecstatic that the author already has the next two books written because I’m about as patient as Saer. Weird flex, I know.
So, for those wanting a quick summary to sell you on Book 1, I’d like to borrow the words of my beloved Arek/Greed: “What did you do, Saer?” Which is what I was saying for like 80% of the book.
You’re welcome. Now, go read it.
Yeah. I’m not okay.
This book is something else. I knew before even starting that I would love Fallen’s First, but, oh man, did I severely underestimate by how much.
Saer, Pride himself, took me on a fucking rollercoaster ride instead of a cutesy journey. I laughed, cried, screamed, you name it. I had a love/hate relationship with him from start to finish, and I couldn’t get enough of it. I lost count of how many times I went from calling him a bitch to saying “yummy” whenever he growled.
Being a HUGE character nerd (to the point where I can’t continue a story unless I latch onto a character and fangirl over them), I think where Coursey shines the most IS the characters. I’ve always been a sucker for stories involving the seven deadly sins. But it’s so hard to find ones where the author SHOWS us their sins as opposed to just constantly explaining it to us through dialogue.
Examples from Fallen’s First:
-Sloth wanting to automate interactions.
-Pride not wanting to admit fault.
-Gluttony devouring leftovers without anyone noticing.
These are qualities Coursey SHOWED instead of saying, “Yeah, Sloth is lazy and doesn’t want to do anything so she wants less work.”
This is what truly sucked me in almost immediately. Her writing is exquisite.
The plot itself is so interesting, too. The first, maybe, third of the book focuses on world-building and character building (HA. LITERALLY.). We spend a good chunk of time getting to know Saer (maybe calling him a bitch here and there) and getting a feel of how everyone and everything works in Coursey’s world. However… once you get about halfway through the book… yeah, good luck putting it down. I took my time absorbing everything and just enjoying my time with Saer, and then I hit the last page. Huh?
Anyway, I’m ecstatic that the author already has the next two books written because I’m about as patient as Saer. Weird flex, I know.
So, for those wanting a quick summary to sell you on Book 1, I’d like to borrow the words of my beloved Arek/Greed: “What did you do, Saer?” Which is what I was saying for like 80% of the book.
You’re welcome. Now, go read it.
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