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Fallen
A newly fallen angel accused of murder, Cassiel must save an elven girl and face demons—both literal and personal. She knows she isn’t the best person for the job, but she’s the only one who can do it.
The police are ill-equipped to handle demons, even with magic, and time is running out. Cassiel and her friends—a disabled human veteran, a reformed elven gangbanger, and an ex-marine orc—face the hardest fight of their lives.
This fast-paced urban fantasy adventure is the first novel in the "Smoke and Magic" series, set in modern Boston, MA. If you are looking for a new voice in Urban Fantasy, look no further than "Fallen."
The police are ill-equipped to handle demons, even with magic, and time is running out. Cassiel and her friends—a disabled human veteran, a reformed elven gangbanger, and an ex-marine orc—face the hardest fight of their lives.
This fast-paced urban fantasy adventure is the first novel in the "Smoke and Magic" series, set in modern Boston, MA. If you are looking for a new voice in Urban Fantasy, look no further than "Fallen."
- GenresFantasyUrban Fantasy
198 pages, ebook
First published January 13, 2022
4 people are currently reading
28 people want to read
About the author
E. Prybylski
18 books32 followersE. is a long-time fantasy enthusiast who decided to try their hand at writing fantasy after decades of reading it. The first chapter book they remember, read to them by their mother, was J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit followed swiftly by Anne McCaffrey’s Pern series (starting with Dragonsong). They knew from a young age that they wanted to be a writer and has worked toward that end with a slow, steady pace their entire life.
Beginning the trip into the publishing world in 2009, E. joined Divertir Publishing as an acquisitions editor. Fast forward to now, they’ve been working as an editor for over a decade while learning the many skills needed to forge their own writing career. Currently, they serve as Insomnia Publishing’s creative director. After publishing a number of short story fiction pieces over the years, they began writing Fallen during lockdown in 2020, inspired by their husband and a shared love of text-based roleplay (which is how the two met).
When they’re not writing, E. is a member of the Society for Creative Anachronism (OSR fencer in the East Kingdom), a violinist, and a great lover of the fiber arts from spinning to weaving to crochet and embroidery. They always have a project in their hands. It helps their ADHD and allows her to focus while also producing usable or pretty art.
Finally, E. is physically disabled and struggles with severe chronic migraines and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and its many comorbidities. They try to write characters who are authentic to this experience and don’t shy away from writing about disability, mental health, gender, and other challenging topics.
Beginning the trip into the publishing world in 2009, E. joined Divertir Publishing as an acquisitions editor. Fast forward to now, they’ve been working as an editor for over a decade while learning the many skills needed to forge their own writing career. Currently, they serve as Insomnia Publishing’s creative director. After publishing a number of short story fiction pieces over the years, they began writing Fallen during lockdown in 2020, inspired by their husband and a shared love of text-based roleplay (which is how the two met).
When they’re not writing, E. is a member of the Society for Creative Anachronism (OSR fencer in the East Kingdom), a violinist, and a great lover of the fiber arts from spinning to weaving to crochet and embroidery. They always have a project in their hands. It helps their ADHD and allows her to focus while also producing usable or pretty art.
Finally, E. is physically disabled and struggles with severe chronic migraines and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and its many comorbidities. They try to write characters who are authentic to this experience and don’t shy away from writing about disability, mental health, gender, and other challenging topics.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
January 14, 2022
I was lucky enough to get a chance to read the book early and I bought myself a copy as soon as it came out. Anyone who enjoys urban fantasy novels (e.g. Dresden Files) will love this book.
It's a gripping story about a fallen angel who embarks on a journey to save a life and accidentally gets embroiled in a war. The characters are relatable and very... human...for such non-human characters. Angels, demons, elves, orcs, and more all living together in modern day Boston with challenges we can all empathize with.
By the end, you will be thirsting for book 2.
It's a gripping story about a fallen angel who embarks on a journey to save a life and accidentally gets embroiled in a war. The characters are relatable and very... human...for such non-human characters. Angels, demons, elves, orcs, and more all living together in modern day Boston with challenges we can all empathize with.
By the end, you will be thirsting for book 2.
January 19, 2022
As an ancient heavenly warrior, Cassiel is imbued with the arts of conflict. It is her purpose, the reason to exist. This is perfectly illustrated at one point when she is presented with a gun for the first time. She has never seen one before but she knows everything about how it works, how to maintain it and how to use it. The flipside to all this deadly knowledge is her innocence and naivety when it comes to absolutely anything else. Initially, Cassiel takes everything quite literally, which does lead to a handful of dryly comic moments. As time passes however, you begin to appreciate the continual evolution that is occurring within. Cassiel is picking up on the subtle nuances of the human condition. I like the idea of a character beginning as a clean slate and we get to watch them grow in front of us.
I’m not going to dwell on the other characters too much. You can discover them for yourself. That said, Dust was a personal favourite.
I don’t consider myself religious, but I do find the mythology that surrounds this story, and by extension organised religion as a whole, fascinating. The endless battle between the forces of the ultimate good versus ultimate evil is always going to draw me in. I tend to think the vast majority of us inhabit that grey area of existence that lies somewhere in-between both these forces. We are all capable of greatness but by the same measure were are also capable of cruelty. This is the sort of philosophical dilemma that keeps me awake at night. Fallen explores how we define our internal moral compass and how it shapes who we are.
On top of that metaphysical conundrum other races like orcs, elves, vampires and shapeshifters have also been added into the mix. This allows for an extra layer of social commentary to be slotted into the narrative and it’s done seamlessly. For example, racism is rife between the various groups. Ogres, trolls and orcs are considered lesser beings by the elves due to their lumbering forms and lack of inherent grace. The author also plays with stereotypes. I think this may be the first time I have come across a down at heel elf. The mean streets of this otherworldly Boston are no place for the likes of your high-born Legolas type. Real societal problems like drug abuse and gang culture are rife. Pairing these issues with non-human fantastical races adds an extra layer of depth to the plot.
Prybylski’s worldbuilding offers some tantalising hints regarding her wider fantasy world. There is mention of brutal “dog fights” featuring shapeshifters, and wizards also get a shout out. This left me wanting to know more which I guess is exactly what the first book in any good series should do. If you are a fan of series like The Dresden Files, or Supernatural is your bag, then Fallen could well be your next obsession. Don’t be fooled though by the crispy fantastical coating that surrounds this book though. Yes, there are angels and demons, elves and orcs but there is more to it than that. Fallen offers insight into what makes us tick. Cassiel has a blistering honest view of the world, her adventures highlight both the best and worst in humanity.
With book one in the Smoke and Magic series, the author has crafted a rock-solid premise that offers endless opportunities. By the end of the novel, the main characters have been well established and a larger overarching narrative is beginning to reveal itself. I look forward to seeing where this goes.
I’m not going to dwell on the other characters too much. You can discover them for yourself. That said, Dust was a personal favourite.
I don’t consider myself religious, but I do find the mythology that surrounds this story, and by extension organised religion as a whole, fascinating. The endless battle between the forces of the ultimate good versus ultimate evil is always going to draw me in. I tend to think the vast majority of us inhabit that grey area of existence that lies somewhere in-between both these forces. We are all capable of greatness but by the same measure were are also capable of cruelty. This is the sort of philosophical dilemma that keeps me awake at night. Fallen explores how we define our internal moral compass and how it shapes who we are.
On top of that metaphysical conundrum other races like orcs, elves, vampires and shapeshifters have also been added into the mix. This allows for an extra layer of social commentary to be slotted into the narrative and it’s done seamlessly. For example, racism is rife between the various groups. Ogres, trolls and orcs are considered lesser beings by the elves due to their lumbering forms and lack of inherent grace. The author also plays with stereotypes. I think this may be the first time I have come across a down at heel elf. The mean streets of this otherworldly Boston are no place for the likes of your high-born Legolas type. Real societal problems like drug abuse and gang culture are rife. Pairing these issues with non-human fantastical races adds an extra layer of depth to the plot.
Prybylski’s worldbuilding offers some tantalising hints regarding her wider fantasy world. There is mention of brutal “dog fights” featuring shapeshifters, and wizards also get a shout out. This left me wanting to know more which I guess is exactly what the first book in any good series should do. If you are a fan of series like The Dresden Files, or Supernatural is your bag, then Fallen could well be your next obsession. Don’t be fooled though by the crispy fantastical coating that surrounds this book though. Yes, there are angels and demons, elves and orcs but there is more to it than that. Fallen offers insight into what makes us tick. Cassiel has a blistering honest view of the world, her adventures highlight both the best and worst in humanity.
With book one in the Smoke and Magic series, the author has crafted a rock-solid premise that offers endless opportunities. By the end of the novel, the main characters have been well established and a larger overarching narrative is beginning to reveal itself. I look forward to seeing where this goes.
January 14, 2022
To be honest, I cannot say enough good about this debut novel from author E. Prybylski. Debut novels often have bumps and plot holes but Fallen is a work of love and it shows.
I'm a big fan of any novels that make heroes out of people who aren't usually portrayed as heroes. LGBTQ+, a wheelchair bound vet, people who have struggled with substance... I love it so much. The characters are so real, I feel like I've met these people before and the storyline is RIVETING. I cannot wait until the second book!
Definitely recommended for fans of Jim Butcher or Holly Black, this is a wonderful new addition to the Urban Fantasy genre.
I'm a big fan of any novels that make heroes out of people who aren't usually portrayed as heroes. LGBTQ+, a wheelchair bound vet, people who have struggled with substance... I love it so much. The characters are so real, I feel like I've met these people before and the storyline is RIVETING. I cannot wait until the second book!
Definitely recommended for fans of Jim Butcher or Holly Black, this is a wonderful new addition to the Urban Fantasy genre.
January 5, 2022
3.75 stars
I Love Urban Fantasy, it was one of The first Genres I got hooked on when I became a kind of 24/7 reader.. So, stories like this one have a special place in My heart. But I can also be quite critical.
This particular story has all The formula To make It an enjoyable ride.. Interesting world set up.. Action, humour, fun banter... And a deep inner conflict We experience right alongside our protagonist.
And that Is What takes The cake For me.. The characters, they are relatable, fun, True To themselves and their relationship with one another.. I adored.
There are some minor hiccups that I'm sure will be polished on Upcoming books... And I would recomend this book If you want a few hours of fun reading time.
I Love Urban Fantasy, it was one of The first Genres I got hooked on when I became a kind of 24/7 reader.. So, stories like this one have a special place in My heart. But I can also be quite critical.
This particular story has all The formula To make It an enjoyable ride.. Interesting world set up.. Action, humour, fun banter... And a deep inner conflict We experience right alongside our protagonist.
And that Is What takes The cake For me.. The characters, they are relatable, fun, True To themselves and their relationship with one another.. I adored.
There are some minor hiccups that I'm sure will be polished on Upcoming books... And I would recomend this book If you want a few hours of fun reading time.
January 24, 2022
What a great read! Searching for an urban fantasy with a strong non-binary lead? Look no further.
I loved Cassiel’s journey in this book. Her relationships are complicated and sometimes messy, and I like how she wasn’t super close with every side character.
This is the first time I’ve ever read a book with a non-binary character. She also seems to be asexual, and it was refreshing to read a book with no romance to detract from the story itself.
I’m looking forward to reading more from E!
I loved Cassiel’s journey in this book. Her relationships are complicated and sometimes messy, and I like how she wasn’t super close with every side character.
This is the first time I’ve ever read a book with a non-binary character. She also seems to be asexual, and it was refreshing to read a book with no romance to detract from the story itself.
I’m looking forward to reading more from E!
January 16, 2022
Excellent!
Thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. Go ahead and read it yourself. You won’t be sorry. Tour de force. Once I really got into it, couldn’t put it down.
Thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. Go ahead and read it yourself. You won’t be sorry. Tour de force. Once I really got into it, couldn’t put it down.
April 25, 2023
“Fallen” is unlike any Urban Fantasy I have read before. You have a world populated by classic high fantasy creatures—elves and orcs just to name a few—plus humans in a modern-day Boston. To top it off, the Christian mythos with angels and heaven are real in this world, even if church goers don’t believe a literal angel when they meet one. I thought that contrast was the most interesting of all, but I’m getting ahead of myself. We follow Cassiel, a fallen angel, as she learns to navigate a world she’s never been to before, as she has been tasked with guarding the gates of heaven for her whole existence. No one believes her when she tells them who she is, which allows for the reader to learn about this version of our world through her eyes. It’s not until a murder in the church she is taking refuge in kicks off a series of events with demons and drug dealers that people truly start to believe Cassiel when she says she is the only weapon capable of facing off against this threat—even wounded as she is.
It takes a bit to get situated in this version of Boston, I will say. For the most part there being multiple types of fantasy races populating the world doesn’t really matter outside of being used as a way to talk about racial issues that aren’t dissimilar to what we face in the “real world”. Having them in this Urban Fantasy does, however, build the foundation for the world for the rest of the series to come, where the different groups and factions may come more in to play. The start of the book is also a bit slow, which is a bit odd for such a short book, where the main plot points in the synopsis don’t even begin to be hinted at until closer to the 30% mark. That being said, I did enjoy the diversity in the cast of characters with a disabled character and gay characters all playing prominent roles in the story. But once you’re in the story, you’re IN it and things move quickly from there.
Once the excitement of the main plot kicks in, and Cassiel is firmly set up as a character, this book was quite the fun ride! For an angel, Cassiel never read as overpowered or even preachy, which I enjoyed. It’s all too easy for books that deal with angels or the Christian mythos to get overly biblical with their story, and “Fallen” doesn’t do that, which then allows the actual story of people trying to make up for past mistakes to really shine through. The (mostly platonic) relationships between the characters in this story are fierce, and sometimes messy, and I loved how real that made them all feel despite their fantastic origins. I just wish I had been more immersed in the world and story faster, which is why this gets 4 stars from me, but it’s otherwise such a refreshing Urban Fantasy that I cannot recommend it enough! And thanks to the author for providing me a copy for an honest review.
It takes a bit to get situated in this version of Boston, I will say. For the most part there being multiple types of fantasy races populating the world doesn’t really matter outside of being used as a way to talk about racial issues that aren’t dissimilar to what we face in the “real world”. Having them in this Urban Fantasy does, however, build the foundation for the world for the rest of the series to come, where the different groups and factions may come more in to play. The start of the book is also a bit slow, which is a bit odd for such a short book, where the main plot points in the synopsis don’t even begin to be hinted at until closer to the 30% mark. That being said, I did enjoy the diversity in the cast of characters with a disabled character and gay characters all playing prominent roles in the story. But once you’re in the story, you’re IN it and things move quickly from there.
Once the excitement of the main plot kicks in, and Cassiel is firmly set up as a character, this book was quite the fun ride! For an angel, Cassiel never read as overpowered or even preachy, which I enjoyed. It’s all too easy for books that deal with angels or the Christian mythos to get overly biblical with their story, and “Fallen” doesn’t do that, which then allows the actual story of people trying to make up for past mistakes to really shine through. The (mostly platonic) relationships between the characters in this story are fierce, and sometimes messy, and I loved how real that made them all feel despite their fantastic origins. I just wish I had been more immersed in the world and story faster, which is why this gets 4 stars from me, but it’s otherwise such a refreshing Urban Fantasy that I cannot recommend it enough! And thanks to the author for providing me a copy for an honest review.
January 28, 2022
Fallen is a fast-paced urban fantasy adventure story. It is the first book in the ‘Smoke and Magic series.’ The story begins with Cassiel, a fallen angel. She is taken to St. Mary’s church to meet Father John, who is helping her understand who she is. When Father John is murdered, things change for Cassiel. With the help of her friends, she begins to piece together why this has happened and who it was.
Cassiel and her friends learn a few things in their search for answers. As the first book of its series, you get an excellent introduction to the characters and personalities. Some backstory blends well with the concept, and Cassiel’s determination pulls everything together.
The literature is written well, and it is easy to envision the fantasy described. Not every part of the storyline gets closure, but what exists keeps the reader satisfied, wanting to know more. The premise was exciting and enjoyable to read.
I recommend this book to fantasy readers and demon lovers.
Cassiel and her friends learn a few things in their search for answers. As the first book of its series, you get an excellent introduction to the characters and personalities. Some backstory blends well with the concept, and Cassiel’s determination pulls everything together.
The literature is written well, and it is easy to envision the fantasy described. Not every part of the storyline gets closure, but what exists keeps the reader satisfied, wanting to know more. The premise was exciting and enjoyable to read.
I recommend this book to fantasy readers and demon lovers.
January 24, 2022
An interesting and solid Urban fantasy featuring a newly fallen angel.
I ran across this in a review and they did such a good job of making it sound interesting that I went to to look for the book. And the first paragraph or so of the sample hooked me so I bought it and have no regrets.
This book is the start of a series, but since it got published only this same month that I bought and read it, I'm going to assume that it will probably be another year or two before a sequel is likely to be available. If this first book is any indication, further adventures in this setting should be just as interesting.
I ran across this in a review and they did such a good job of making it sound interesting that I went to to look for the book. And the first paragraph or so of the sample hooked me so I bought it and have no regrets.
This book is the start of a series, but since it got published only this same month that I bought and read it, I'm going to assume that it will probably be another year or two before a sequel is likely to be available. If this first book is any indication, further adventures in this setting should be just as interesting.
November 2, 2022
I received this in exchange for my honest review. I love this book! There is amazing representation, and a clever story. If you love Lt.. Dan from forest Gump and Castiel from supernatural than this is the book for you! The Mc Cass, and thier friend Jim are just amazing together! I cannot wait to see where this series goes! The prose can seem a bit wordy however that is not a criticism it works beautifully, given that the book is written in first person from the poverty of a fallen angel! It's a quick, read but definitely worth it!
October 22, 2022
Fallen from Heaven and a Demon lurks in the Shadows, what will Cassiel do to save them??
I follow the author on Tik Tok, and got to read this, was sent at about 9:30PM PST and by 4:30AM I had finished, definitely a page turner I couldn't put down.
Reminds me a little of an Angel for Emily, and Kim Harrison's Hallowed series smashed together in a good way.
Orcs, Elves, Trolls, Dwarves, Humans and Celestials what a ride.
Book 2 drops in January, get your Read on. 😍
I follow the author on Tik Tok, and got to read this, was sent at about 9:30PM PST and by 4:30AM I had finished, definitely a page turner I couldn't put down.
Reminds me a little of an Angel for Emily, and Kim Harrison's Hallowed series smashed together in a good way.
Orcs, Elves, Trolls, Dwarves, Humans and Celestials what a ride.
Book 2 drops in January, get your Read on. 😍
April 28, 2023
Christian urban fantasy is not a genre I usually dip into, and I had some trepidation about it, but E has done a masterful job of weaving worldbuilding with Biblical lore, in a way that is sensitive, not preachy, while being inclusive and welcoming. The characters and setting are vivid—I could feel the Boston rain—and Cass's character development is compelling, as is the thriller aspect of the plot.
Even if you're not religious (I'm certainly not), you might enjoy this anyway (I did).
Even if you're not religious (I'm certainly not), you might enjoy this anyway (I did).
January 22, 2022
There's a fine line between urban fantasy and silliness, and the author walks it with confidence and aplomb, creating wonderfully vulnerable characters and a world removed from ours only just enough to keep the reader locked in.
Rich but not complex, faith-centred but not remotely preachy, complete but decidedly ready for a sequel. I loved it
Rich but not complex, faith-centred but not remotely preachy, complete but decidedly ready for a sequel. I loved it
January 31, 2022
The beginning is definitely very slow as the author builds up the new world that Cassiel has found herself in after falling. The book picks up about midway through and turns into a page-turner near the end. As the cover makes clear this is heavily christian mythology based, and features a fallen angel as the main character, as she learns what it is like to live as a human.
November 13, 2022
I really enjoyed this debut novel! The characters were relatable and likable. I went into the book blindly (I don’t like spoilers) and was exited to discover that it was about a fallen angel and her difficulties adjusting to her new earth-bound life. When I finished the book, I missed her and her new friends. I am eagerly awaiting the second book of the series!
December 14, 2024
Good vs evil. Love of another kind. Our world but different. E. Prybylski has a fantastic set of characters, a gripping plot, and an easy to believe alternative to our real world. Life isn't pretty. And demons don't care who they hurt. This will grab you from the start and keep you all the way to the end. Loved it all.
March 31, 2022
It's certainly not the first fantasy mixed into our real world, but she did a excellent job making it work. A lot of fun that keeps you wanting to find out what happens next. I hope the rest of the "Smoke and Magic" series will live up to the promise.
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October 25, 2022Exceptionally good read.
Fast paced and engaging. I liked the blend of fantasy, Faith and friendship. Great first work from this author. Would recommend for teens and up. Few swears but otherwise, great for all readers.
Fast paced and engaging. I liked the blend of fantasy, Faith and friendship. Great first work from this author. Would recommend for teens and up. Few swears but otherwise, great for all readers.
January 31, 2022
Hard to put down! A story of modern day struggles set in modern day Boston but with a fantasy twist that allows the reader safe entry into thinking about our world.
January 17, 2023
I received this book and the second book as Arc reads. If you love to be fully developed in plot and character development. This is one of the best reads.
December 13, 2023
This is such a fresh take on urban fantasy! What does a fallen angel do with herself after she's fallen?
I appreciated the more progressive, challenging aspects of the narrative—the fact that the angel, Cass, is not precisely gendered; the fact that she is a warrior; the descriptions and interactions of other fantastical creatures, all set in our own rather mundane world; and most of all, the main character's questions and wrestling with God's (often unfathomable) will while staying firm in her awareness of God's existence and God's truth. (Of course, if you're an angel, I'd think denying the existence of God would be fairly problematic, but I suppose anything is possible.) The profanity's there, but it fits seamlessly into the narrative and it's not gratuitous. The characters are diverse and carefully drawn, and even with their flaws, they're appealing. I found myself wishing I had friends like Cass's friends in this novel.
E's writing is clear and compelling, and the narrative moves swiftly. The poor angel has a rough, bloody go, but her struggle—and her lack of awareness of this world's daily minutiae—makes for a fascinating read. Her perspective on the Christian faith is also grace-filled and refreshing. Five stars.
I appreciated the more progressive, challenging aspects of the narrative—the fact that the angel, Cass, is not precisely gendered; the fact that she is a warrior; the descriptions and interactions of other fantastical creatures, all set in our own rather mundane world; and most of all, the main character's questions and wrestling with God's (often unfathomable) will while staying firm in her awareness of God's existence and God's truth. (Of course, if you're an angel, I'd think denying the existence of God would be fairly problematic, but I suppose anything is possible.) The profanity's there, but it fits seamlessly into the narrative and it's not gratuitous. The characters are diverse and carefully drawn, and even with their flaws, they're appealing. I found myself wishing I had friends like Cass's friends in this novel.
E's writing is clear and compelling, and the narrative moves swiftly. The poor angel has a rough, bloody go, but her struggle—and her lack of awareness of this world's daily minutiae—makes for a fascinating read. Her perspective on the Christian faith is also grace-filled and refreshing. Five stars.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews