The Eighth Sin

by Crystal Crist, Nicole DiPatri Sheldon (Editor)

DESCRIPTION WILL BE ADDED SOON

Genres: Fantasy

487 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 7, 2026

About the author

Crystal Crist is a proud military spouse and a busy mom of three, adventurous, kids. As a self-published author, Crystal enjoys exploring various genres and connecting with her readers. Her journey is all about balancing love and creativity while also allowing her work to be a journey of healing for those with similar life experiences.

Reviews

[Lauren Head · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book put me through an emotional whirlwind, and I loved every second of it! Every chapter was packed with shocking twists, powerful moments, and revelations that kept me completely invested. Watching Morrigan finally uncover long-awaited answers and begin mastering her fire magic was so satisfying, but Tristan absolutely stole my heart. His unwavering devotion to Morrigan is everything, and the way he stands by her no matter the cost is impossible not to love. Morrigan’s fierce protectiveness over Azrael was equally beautiful, proving she’ll do anything for the people she loves. It was incredibly satisfying to watch the Lords finally face the consequences of how they treated Morrigan, with Tristan helping bring everyone to the same side. And Tristan and Kaiden together? They’re an unstoppable force, two fiercely loyal warriors who would burn the world down to protect Morrigan. Just when I thought I had everything figured out, the ending completely blindsided me. I never saw that twist coming! This series continues to keep me guessing, and I’m already desperate for the next book.

[Lisa Whitney · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Eight Sin was everything I want in a dark fantasy and more. From the very beginning, Crystal Crist pulled me in. Every time I thought I had the story figured out, another revelation completely changed what I thought I knew.

One of the biggest reasons I love this story is its dark fantasy premise, and it absolutely delivered. The magic system had enough complexity to keep me invested without becoming overwhelming, and the vivid descriptions made the setting feel real. This has an immersive setting that felt both beautiful and dangerous, making it easy to get lost in the story.

The character development was one of the strongest aspects of the book. Watching the FMC grow into her power was so satisfying. Her journey was filled with challenges and self-discovery. I loved seeing her gain confidence and embrace the strength she had within her all along.

The unexpected fated bond added emotional depth and tension to the story, while the love triangle kept me constantly questioning who I was rooting harder for. The found family that began in the first book continued to grow throughout this book, and by the end, I was emotionally attached to the characters and their connections with one another.

Kaiden and Dez are easily my favorite MMCs. The "touch her and die" energy throughout the book is exactly the kind of intensity I love in fantasy romance. Azrael and Malakai stood out and have become my favorite side characters leaving me curious how their story will unfold.

The multiple POVs and multiple timelines, with recovered memories, gave me a deeper understanding of the characters and the larger story. There were several moments that gave me anxiety about which bonds and relationships would survive everything that was unfolding, and that anxiety kept me turning pages.

The twists came one after another. With plenty of action, romance, mystery, and character development this story had me invested from beginning to end.

[Lisa Gainers · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you love reverse harem romance with a mix of golden retriever energy, "touch her and die" protectiveness, best-friend vibes, and a feisty FMC, then this book is definitely for you!
I was so excited to dive into this one, and it absolutely lived up to the hype.
From the very first chapter, I was hooked and found myself flying through the pages because I just had to know what was going to happen next.
Morrigan is such an incredible FMC. She's strong, stubborn, fearless, and refuses to let anyone walk all over her. Even when everything is stacked against her, she keeps fighting, and I couldn't help but cheer her on every step of the way. She is truly a force to be reckoned with.
The MMCs had me on an emotional roller coaster. One minute I absolutely adored them, and the next I wanted to shake every single one of them. They each bring something different to the story, and watching their relationships with Morrigan develop kept me completely invested. The chemistry, tension, and banter were so much fun to read.
The side characters deserve just as much love because they add so much heart, humor, and depth to the story. They made the world feel even richer and left me wanting more of every single interaction.
All I can say is...okay, Morrigan, you are an absolute force to be reckoned with, and I cannot wait to see where this story goes next!

[Lydia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book put me through all my feelings! It was such a roller coaster 😮‍💨 but so worth it.

Morrigan finally got answers and even got training to wield her fire magic. And the bonus is Tristan! Omg yes this man is drowning me with his devotion to Morrigan 🔥

And Morrigan is so protective of Azrael 🥹 protecting him like a mother would 💜

Oh how all of the lords got to think over every mistake that they made towards Morrigan, but that is how everyone got on the same page. And that thanks to Tristan 😈😋

Kaiden has found his equal with Tristan both of them are a force to be reckoned with and neither will stray from Morrigan and will do anything within their power to kill for her 🥵

Finally got some answers and I already hoped Cain would die but that ending?! I DID NOT see that one coming 🤯 this serie keeps me on my toes and I want the next book already!!!

[Jessica Sherman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought I loved the 1st book, but then here comes Crystal, making this book even better. I absolutely loved this book. I don't want to give away any spoilers, so you will just have to read it yourself. Amazing job Crystal and can't wait to see if there are more books to follow

[Summer Thompson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Watching Morrigan grow, through everything she’s been through, in this series has been perfect. Poor girl goes through HELL and still not only survives, but prevailed!

I can’t wait the next book of this series!

[Kimberlee Kelley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again Crystal Cris has done a marvelous job!!!! ♡ Book two was just as captivating as book one....this story takes you on such a wild right of emotions. I am here for all of it! Can't wait for more 💯

[Abi Figurski · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Eighth Sin was such a fun read! I absolutely loved the characters and how much thought went into building this world. It had so many of my favorite elements—lycans, gods and goddesses, soul bonds, and a dark romance that kept me invested from beginning to end.

The world-building felt rich without being overwhelming, and I found myself wanting to learn more about the lore and the characters with every chapter.

My only downside was the romance pacing. It leaned much more toward a slow burn than I expected, and as someone who prefers relationships to develop a little faster (with more spice along the way), I was left wanting more. If you're a slow-burn fan, though, you'll probably love that aspect.

Overall, this was an entertaining read with a unique fantasy world and characters I genuinely enjoyed following. I'm definitely interested in continuing the series to see where everything goes next.

[Elemental Dragon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you for giving me the chance to ARC read! I can't wait for more to come <3

Hands down would read this series again.

A lot of story progression and answers in this second book! Absolutely love it.

The character growths are good. You get to deep dive more into the lore as well. You meet new amazing characters that help fill the world.

I adore all the characters and getting multiple different perspectives is just yes! I enjoy that the switching of perspectives is easy to follow and gets us to really emerge into the different characters' mindsets. Nicely done

This really is a good why choose spicy romance about a FMC finding her strength after some intense trauma.

Ending was much better and still left us ready and wanting more!!! Highly suggest reading this series if you like adventure, spicy romance and FMC finding her way.

[Kristie Conaughty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Omg. I thought Book 1 was amazing, but Book 2 straight-up tackled me like a emotional linebacker and left me seeing stars. I devoured the whole thing in two nights. Saying “I loved it” doesn’t even begin to cover it—this book ruined me in the best possible way!
I’m head-over-heels for Tristan, and my heart is out here doing gymnastics for Mor and her complicated lord situation. The turmoil? Chef’s kiss. The trauma healing? Therapy in fantasy form. The magic, the love, the gut-wrenching heartache… this book has the full emotional buffet and I went back for thirds.
I’m now just sitting here vibrating with impatience, staring at my calendar like it personally betrayed me. Crystal, please dust off that witchy book magic, throw some glitter on it, and summon Book 3 already! My soul is begging. My sleep schedule is begging. The group chat is begging. We’re all begging. 🥺✨

[Sydney Pringle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so excited to read the next installment in this series. I reread the first book right before which I loved all over again. Reading multiple POVs is always a favorite of mine. I do wish we could get a deeper dive into each character but I’m sure it’s coming! Meeting Tristan was a highlight. I love their relationship. Seeing Mor come into her power and controlling it more was empowering. Mal is one of my favorite characters. This book gave me all the feels. There are many twist and turns that keep you guessing. There is a good balance of spice and storyline. I can’t wait for the next one already to see what happens next. Couldn’t recommend this book more!
I received this book as an ARC and this is my honest opinion.

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Before I say anything else, when I tell you I could not put this book down, I am not exaggerating. This author’s writing is simply impeccable. It’s effortless to read, completely immersive, and so beautifully written that I genuinely forget I’m reading.

I loved the first book in this series, but I somehow loved this one even more. It was mysterious, suspenseful, and had me constantly guessing and worrying about what was going to happen next. I also loved getting to know the characters on a deeper level and experiencing all of the emotional turmoil they went through.

This author has officially become an auto-buy author for me and is easily one of my all-time favorites. Every book she writes reminds me why I keep coming back, and I already can’t wait to see what she writes next.

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am such a huge fan! This second part of Morrigan's story is just as exciting and thrilling as the first. Heaps of character development, secrets, untold mysteries, and twists in the plot that I just didn't see coming. I loved it! Truly storytelling that the author should be so proud of! Read the first book 'Courting Sin' first to set the pace and background. You wont regret taking the time to establish what is going on. The wonderful thing is that I still feel like there is so much more to be told and unanswered questions. It's no wonder the pre-orders are sold out. Don't pass this one up, it's totally worth the read!

[Susan Vanderlaan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This one was everything I hoped for and more! Book one had me from page one and book two certainly did the same! The characters, the world all of the little details, Crystal nailed it perfectly and I’m swooning over this series it’s definitely leaving me with book hangover for sure! This is such a unique storyline from anything else that I have read and it makes my bookish heart so happy! Read this series!!

[Andrea Gleditsch · Rating 5 out of 5]

Secrets, despair, unbreakable bonds and a hunt to save the woman they love. The series continues to amaze me, how these characters keep growing on me with every chapter. The passion, need to protect and fight for redemption is so perfectly written.

I felt the desperation, sorrow, anger throughout the read. And it absolutely kept me on my toes.

One must go, it began with seven and it will end with seven.

Or is this how it all ends??

[Marsha · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book right here, Yes! Secrets are coming out. Tension is high. Enter sibling rivalry. And the making of an epic queen. This has all the conflict and all the emotion. I am in anticipation to see where this goes. I expect the mother load of a god war with the rise of a goddess. Crystal Crist did not disappoint.

[Brianne Hersey · Rating 4 out of 5]

What can I say other than Morrigan is a badass and I love her more and more.

this book had so many twists and turns that i couldn't think straight.

Can't wait to see where the story goes from here.

[Raven · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC review: Crystal outdoes herself with every single book. This book was absolutely amazing and I cannot wait for the continuation of the series.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! What a roller coaster this book was! I love Morrigan! This book made you feel all the feels with her! I can’t wait for more I need the next book 😅 that cliffhanger

[Daniella Marchand]

Love the story very much, couldn't put it down. I'm curious for what is gonna happen next, can't wait actually. The growth that the heroine is actually going through. From one that thought she was no one to what she now actually is, even if we don't Know everything yet.

Recommended read 🥹

[chloe bolton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this story. Every time you think you know what’s going to happen, another twist and turn comes and changes what you think you know.

This book has so much character growth in it that was written really beautifully and I really loved watching the MFC grow into herself and her power.

The new love interest was not an unexpected surprise when you found out who he is, but he seems to fit in with them all really well.

I found out all the characters added something to the story including the side characters, no two characters were the same.

Absolutely love the plot I was hooked from the first page of the first book. I just did not want to put them down. These books had great well building.

I look forward to reading more from this offer in the future.

[Kimberly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Firstly, thank you so much to Crystal for allowing me to read this as an ARC. The Eighth Sin releases on 7/7/26.

I admit, I spent the majority of the book confused. I kept thinking I should have reread the ending of book one because the rabbit hole of new characters and story lines I fell into was vast. I loved how Crystal tied them up and back into the main story line. By the end of my book I was with my besties again….until that epilogue plot twist. Better than a cliffhange I suppose! 🤣

[Brita Mackay · Rating 5 out of 5]

BOOK TWO IN THE SEVEN DEADLY SINS SERIES.

Morrigan was never meant to disappear… Bound by a false prophecy, the seven lords of Andonia believed her fate to be sealed the moment of her birth. She was their salvation…

Now, with Morrigan’s whereabouts unknown, the bond that once tied them together is unraveling. Loyalties are fracturing, and the kingdom that once waited for its chosen ruler is beginning to crumble under the weight of Andonia’s secrets.

As the lords race to find their lost princess, old enemies will rise from the shadows… and a prophecy long buried will whisper a terrifying truth.

Some destinies were written in blood.

Others must be burned into fate.

YOUR MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS!!! Please read and pay close attention to the trigger warnings at the beginning of this book. There is some content and scenes in this book that may not be suitable for all readers and could be triggering for others. Always remember that your mental health comes first.
Reader discretion is advised.

Tropes: Why Choose, Fantasy Romance, Chosen One, Lost Princess, Hidden Identity/Missing Heroine, Prophecy, False Prophecy, Fated Destiny, Found Family, Protective MMCs, Touch Her and Unalive, Slow-Burn, Epic Quest/Search Mission, Political Intrigue, Power Struggle, Ancient Secrets, Secrets & Lies, Good vs. Evil, Destiny vs. Free Will, Magic & Mythology, Royal Court Drama, Kingdom in Peril, Dark Fantasy Elements, Cliffhanger/Continuing Series, Fated Mates/Fated Bonds, Protective Love Interests, Emotional Angst, Unbreakable Bond, Fate vs. Choice, Sacrifice, Trust & Betrayal, Identity, Power & Responsibility, Loyalty, Hope in the Face of Darkness, Rewriting Destiny.

The Eighth Sin is the 2nd book in Crystal Crist’s Seven Deadly Sins Series.

Crystal Crist's Seven Deadly Sins series, The Eighth Sin, the second installment, returns us to the storm-tossed kingdom of Andonia, where prophecy, loyalty, and fate ride the tempest winds with fierce resolve. Crystal offers a dark fantasy that delves into fate and betrayal through Morrigan, the heir expected to save her kingdom, who is missing. This book not only picks up the story from the first volume in the series, but also raises the stakes, morally and emotionally.

What I found to be the one thing that sets The Eighth Sin apart is its masterful mixture of traditional fantasy tropes with a more modern psychological edge. By entwining doubt and disruption, especially among the seven lords of Andonia who seek dominance as Morrigan disappears, Crist avoids formulaic prophecy-driven narratives. The result is a story that has both a grand epic feel in scope and personal character-drama tension.

Without a doubt, the greatest strength of this story lies in its atmosphere and worldbuilding. The continent of Andonia is not only where the story takes place but also a character in its own right, filled with secrets and shadows; it reflects the dark places where its rulers tread. Crystal writes in an evocative but not overwhelming manner, building suspense with elusive hints and distant intrigues that keep the reader guessing. The duality in the prophecy, of destinies made in blood but those that "must be burned into fate," gives a poetic heft that lingers well past the last page.

The one drawback I did find was in the character development, which felt uneven at times. The narrative is undoubtedly propelled by Morrigan and her mysterious demeanour, but the story rests largely on the lords themselves in her absence, their motivations sometimes fading into fantasy archetypes.

The pared-down relationships, fractured loyalties and political maneuvering have greater emotional heft, but only when characters are uncharacteristically open with each other. Still, some relationships could be less nuanced, giving each voice more individuality.

The Eighth Sin has something of a see-sawing pace between action and mystery, but as the narrative unfolds, tension mounts consistently to a conclusion that is at once shocking and brutally inevitable. The return of old adversaries from the shadows creates helpful tension and uncertainty, although some twists fall back on familiar fantasy tropes. However, the author was unafraid to delve fully into the implications of betrayal and the steep price of power, adding a level of darkness and maturity often missing in other works like this.

The Eighth Sin is a captivating follow-up that adds depth and atmosphere to the Seven Deadly Sins universe. It's strong at creating a compelling world centred on prophecy and human weakness, although some character bits could use a little more sharpening. If you enjoy layered fantasy with complex power dynamics and a serious, suspenseful tone, it's an excellent follow-up. If you want fast-paced action with no time for contemplation, lower your expectations.

In the end, Crystal calls on readers to examine how much of our fortune or misfortune is predetermined by astrology, and what it really means, even for a second, to strive for or bend destiny.

Thus proceeds the tale of this darkened kingdom, and one must question: when the bonds we hold dear begin to snap, what sins remain unatoned for, and which will take their place?

[Sajie · Rating 5 out of 5]

After the wild ride of book one, The Eighth Sin picks up right in the thick of the chaos, and honestly? It completely consumed me. We start with Morrigan escaping a toxic, torturous Lord who forced a bond on her (absolutely trash behavior, I hate him). She flees straight into the Netherworld with the young boy she rescued, and let me tell you, this place is bleak, the dumping ground for condemned monsters of war and lost souls. But it’s also where she finds the actual catalyst of the ancient gods' war: the other half of her soul. The world-building expansion in this sequel is insane. While navigating the Netherworld, Morrigan unearths the deeply gruesome, hidden history that the gods tried to bury centuries ago, and the sheer scale of the plot has me completely hooked.

What I deeply appreciate about Crystal Crist’s writing is how she completely subverts the typical why-choose romance expectations. You aren't getting a safe, copy-paste harem here. Not everyone is a potential partner; actual evil is lurking right inside the inner circle, just waiting for the perfect moment to strike. Plus, I love that not every bond is strictly intimate. Some characters just want to fiercely protect her and stand by her side platonic-style, which feels so much more grounded and refreshing. To top it off, the book tackles LGBTQ+ themes completely independent of the FMC, adding a layer of representation that feels totally natural to the world.

Can we also talk about the new additions to Morrigan’s support squad? Having Malachi and Azrael in the mix is top-tier character development. I am already lowkey manifesting a Malachi-Lyra love interest for book three because the chemistry potential is just sitting right there.

By the time I hit the epilogue, my heart literally dropped and I almost threw hands because I thought I was about to be disappointed. Turns out, it was just the most agonizingly perfect introduction to book three. The absolute top-tier groveling, the bleeding raw emotion in those high-stakes moments, and that sudden narrative turnaround at the very end? Absolute chef's kiss.

Overall Rating: 5

1. Writing Style & Prose - 25%
Rating: 5: Masterful & Iconic

2. Plot & Setting - 25%
Rating: 5: Ingenious & Well Planned

3. Character Depth - 25%
Rating: 5: Complex & Amazing Development

4. Enjoyment & Impact - 25%
Rating: 5: Profound & Unforgettable

[Melinda Berryhill · Rating 5 out of 5]

🌼 The Eighth Sin Review 🌼

🌟 5/5
🌶️ 2/5

🖤 Why Choose
🖤 Vampires/Gods
🖤 Shifters
🖤 Chosen One
🖤 Book 2

This one was one of my most anticipated reads of this year and Crystal didn’t disappoint. I got everything I was hoping for and more. The emotional rollercoaster of this book is one you never want to get off of.

We pick up where we left off in book 1 and it’s a wild ride cover to cover. Secrets and lies are revealed. Hearts are broken but healing. The devastation is so real you can feel it. I couldn’t put this one down and finished it basically in one sitting. I don’t want to say much about the plot and ruin it. But it will blow your mind 🤯. And the few spice scenes we get? 🥵 perfection.

Plus an honorable mention for new characters who absolutely stole the show and my heart. 🐺

Overall, this is a five star read for me. The pacing is perfect. The characters are real and raw. And the plot!? Addictive. And the romance was everything I love about a why choose. 👏 I also absolutely love the world building and the magic in this one. It’s unique and very interesting.

[Emily Barnard · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an Advanced Reader Copy of Eighth Sin from the author after really enjoying the first book of this series, Courting Sin.

This is definitely a dark fantasy book with some spice which picks up its beginning from the end of book 1. As in my review for Courting Sin, the world building is absolutely incredible particularly getting a feel through the flashbacks about the significance of some of the events from over 300 years ago, and the discovery that Morrigan's imaginary friend who helps soothe her nightmares is not imaginary at all but has sworn to protect her after their connection starts was heartwarming.

I thought I hated Kaiden up until about 3 chapters into this book where I realised that he wasn't the villain he appeared to be in book one.

Overall if you like your romance dark, your men obsessed with you and a situation where the FMC does not have to choose this series is for you and you definitely must read both books!

Eighth Sin is released on Amazon on July 8, but you can read Courting Sin now!

[Amelia · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy for free, and these are my honest thoughts.

3.5*

This picked up exactly where book 1 left off (which was one of the biggest cliffhangers I've seen since Game of Thrones) and this book did not disappoint. We meet some new characters and get to know more about those we met in book 1. We get some new POVs that definitely did NOT make me cry.

I am INVESTED and can't wait to find out what happens to our girl Morrigan (and her guys…) next.

Sometimes it feels like the author is trying to do too much, and like there are too many "twists" (some of which are obvious and some of which will blindside you), but she wraps it all together very well. There are also some pockets where you feel like she maybe forgot about someone and then all of a sudden they're back with no explanation as to why they weren't mentioned for a while, but imo this does not detract from to big picture.

Also… F that guy (IYKYK) he deserves what's (fingers crossed) coming for him.

[Virginie · Rating 5 out of 5]

📖 The Eighth Sin – Crystal Crist
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5)

EN
This was the perfect balance of complex and engaging without ever feeling overwhelming. The world-building and plot kept me intrigued, while the character development was easily one of the book’s greatest strengths.

I went through such a wide range of emotions while reading, and I was completely invested from beginning to end. And Tristan… his unwavering devotion to Morrigan? Yes, please. 🫠

I loved absolutely everything about this book.

Huge thanks to Crystal for the ARC copy!

FR
Ce livre est juste assez complexe pour me garder captivée sans jamais devenir trop lourd ou difficile à suivre. Le développement des personnages est, selon moi, l’un des plus grands points forts de l’histoire.

Je suis passée par toute une gamme d’émotions et j’ai été complètement investie du début à la fin. Et que dire de Tristan? Sa dévotion envers Morrigan… oui, s’il vous plaît. 🫠

J’ai absolument tout aimé de cette lecture.

Merci à Crystal pour la copie ARC!

[nightlyreadingheather · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you haven't picked up the first book in this series, Courting Sin, be sure to do that before jumping into this one, and if you read the first book, you will not want to miss this one!

This review is going to be short and sweet because we learn so much more about this world and about this prophecy that I do not want to give anything away!

Morrigan is learning to stand on her own two feet. She becomes quite the bada$$ and no longer needs protecting. Her harem may need some protection from her! I loved her growth in this book, and she can only get stronger from here!

We finally find out who the mystery man is coming into Morrigan's dreams, and I am still not sure about my feelings on it! I adore Kaiden!! Let's just add another harem member, shall we?

I laughed, and I cried, especially during one particular scene! Crystal Crist sure knows how to put me in my feels!

And now I am left with answers but so many more questions! Looking forward to the next one!

[Gionna · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was so excited to return to the Kingdom of Andonia, and while The Eighth Sin didn't capture me quite as quickly as Courting Sin did, I still thoroughly enjoyed the journey.

Crystal Crist continues to shine when it comes to worldbuilding. The lore surrounding Andonia, and the gods remains rich, immersive, and beautifully crafted. Her writing is atmospheric and descriptive, making it easy to lose yourself in the world she's created.


One of Crist's greatest strengths is her ability to create a world that feels expansive and lived-in while still grounding the story in meaningful character moments. Fans of lore-rich romantasy and slower-burning fantasy plots will find plenty to appreciate here.

Thank you to the author and the ARC team for the opportunity to read and provide an honest review.