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Santa Muerte #1
Sinner
A bruja is born.What does a girl who envies the creep and darkness of a shadow become?
From the time she was born, Matea had a connection to Santa Muerte that seemed to linger inside her.
Matea's world seemed to bend around her in a way that no one else could comprehend. She trembled with an unexplained intensity, knowing that the cosmic forces and strange intuitions driving her forward were going to be impossible to control.
Promised to Santa Muerte at birth Matea's life felt like it was constantly on the edge of something unpredictable and fear filled Matea's body as she considered what type of power, she may ultimately be capable of.
Who could keep Matea from Santa Muerte's oppressive forces, and who would keep the world safe from Matea?
From the time she was born, Matea had a connection to Santa Muerte that seemed to linger inside her.
Matea's world seemed to bend around her in a way that no one else could comprehend. She trembled with an unexplained intensity, knowing that the cosmic forces and strange intuitions driving her forward were going to be impossible to control.
Promised to Santa Muerte at birth Matea's life felt like it was constantly on the edge of something unpredictable and fear filled Matea's body as she considered what type of power, she may ultimately be capable of.
Who could keep Matea from Santa Muerte's oppressive forces, and who would keep the world safe from Matea?
202 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 31, 2023
24 people are currently reading
166 people want to read
About the author
Carol James Marshall
23 books75 followersCarol James Marshall is an author who specializes in horror stories, combining comedy, paranormal, sci-fi and suspenseful elements. She has 7 books and 4 short stories already out in the world and is currently working on Santa Muerte, a Latino-influenced series about witches that will be released in 2023.
Marshall is a low vision author who uses technology and large fonts to write her books.
When she isn't writing or enjoying audiobooks, Carol works as a translator. With her background in both Los Angeles, California and Mexicali, Mexico, she now lives in Georgia along with her husband and two children.
Marshall is a low vision author who uses technology and large fonts to write her books.
When she isn't writing or enjoying audiobooks, Carol works as a translator. With her background in both Los Angeles, California and Mexicali, Mexico, she now lives in Georgia along with her husband and two children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
June 8, 2023
TW: language, gory scenes, toxic parent relationship
*****SPOILERS*****
About the book:A bruja is born.What does a girl who envies the creep and darkness of a shadow become? From the time she was born, Matea had a connection to Santa Muerte that seemed to linger inside her. Matea's world seemed to bend around her in a way that no one else could comprehend. She trembled with an unexplained intensity, knowing that the cosmic forces and strange intuitions driving her forward were going to be impossible to control. Promised to Santa Muerte at birth Matea's life felt like it was constantly on the edge of something unpredictable and fear filled Matea's body as she considered what type of power, she may ultimately be capable of. Who could keep Matea from Santa Muerte's oppressive forces, and who would keep the world safe from Matea?
Release Date: May 5th, 2023
Genre: Horror
Pages: 215
Rating: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
What I Liked:
1. Matea felt flushed out
2. Loved following Matea as she ages
3. I loved the plot of this book
What I Didn't Like:
1. Sometimes writing felt a little sluggish
Overall Thoughts:
I read this book on a 90f degree day so reading about how hot the day(s) were in the book really added a layer of reality that I appreciated.
I was excited to get picked by @bookloverblogtours to do a book tour for the book Sinner by @carol_james_marshall.
There was so much I loved about this book. I thought Matea was an interesting character. I loved being able to grow with her and experience all the interesting things that went on with her
I loved learning about the Mexican culture. There were parts where I felt as though I was going along with the characters and we were all friends. I feel like the author did a good job at building up the atmosphere. There were some creepy parts that I thought did a wonderful job at scary you or grossing you out.
I do wish there was a little more back story. I love to have my characters flushed out so I can care more about them and if things happen to them. Also at certain times I felt a little confused on what happened and would have to reread to see if I missed something.
I'm excited to read the 2nd book.
Final Thoughts:
Reading this book felt like a fun time. I enjoyed so much about the authors world they built. I loved that there was Spanish sprinkled within the book to help in also learning some new language. Like I said I am excited to jump into the next book.
Recommend For:
• POV experiences
• Books with gory scenes
IG | Blog
*****SPOILERS*****
About the book:A bruja is born.What does a girl who envies the creep and darkness of a shadow become? From the time she was born, Matea had a connection to Santa Muerte that seemed to linger inside her. Matea's world seemed to bend around her in a way that no one else could comprehend. She trembled with an unexplained intensity, knowing that the cosmic forces and strange intuitions driving her forward were going to be impossible to control. Promised to Santa Muerte at birth Matea's life felt like it was constantly on the edge of something unpredictable and fear filled Matea's body as she considered what type of power, she may ultimately be capable of. Who could keep Matea from Santa Muerte's oppressive forces, and who would keep the world safe from Matea?
Release Date: May 5th, 2023
Genre: Horror
Pages: 215
Rating: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
What I Liked:
1. Matea felt flushed out
2. Loved following Matea as she ages
3. I loved the plot of this book
What I Didn't Like:
1. Sometimes writing felt a little sluggish
Overall Thoughts:
I read this book on a 90f degree day so reading about how hot the day(s) were in the book really added a layer of reality that I appreciated.
I was excited to get picked by @bookloverblogtours to do a book tour for the book Sinner by @carol_james_marshall.
There was so much I loved about this book. I thought Matea was an interesting character. I loved being able to grow with her and experience all the interesting things that went on with her
I loved learning about the Mexican culture. There were parts where I felt as though I was going along with the characters and we were all friends. I feel like the author did a good job at building up the atmosphere. There were some creepy parts that I thought did a wonderful job at scary you or grossing you out.
I do wish there was a little more back story. I love to have my characters flushed out so I can care more about them and if things happen to them. Also at certain times I felt a little confused on what happened and would have to reread to see if I missed something.
I'm excited to read the 2nd book.
Final Thoughts:
Reading this book felt like a fun time. I enjoyed so much about the authors world they built. I loved that there was Spanish sprinkled within the book to help in also learning some new language. Like I said I am excited to jump into the next book.
Recommend For:
• POV experiences
• Books with gory scenes
IG | Blog
May 17, 2023
'A bruja is born.
What does a girl who envies the creep and darkness of a shadow become?'
This book was different to anything else that I have read.
I was a little unsure if I enjoyed it to begin with but 50 pages in and I was loving it.
It was dark and twisted but not in an 'I'm not going to sleep tonight' kind of way.
I did get a little bit lost with the characters initially because were quite a few but in the last 50 or so pages I was able to identify them. (The book isn't very long).
I did feel that there was a language barrier, there was quite a few times that the Spanish wasn't obviously translated and I felt that I was missing bits...
Overall a good book and I'm looking forward to reading the next one.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Carol James Marshall for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
What does a girl who envies the creep and darkness of a shadow become?'
This book was different to anything else that I have read.
I was a little unsure if I enjoyed it to begin with but 50 pages in and I was loving it.
It was dark and twisted but not in an 'I'm not going to sleep tonight' kind of way.
I did get a little bit lost with the characters initially because were quite a few but in the last 50 or so pages I was able to identify them. (The book isn't very long).
I did feel that there was a language barrier, there was quite a few times that the Spanish wasn't obviously translated and I felt that I was missing bits...
Overall a good book and I'm looking forward to reading the next one.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Carol James Marshall for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 20, 2023
I accessed this book via Netgalley, after seeing the cover and being hooked by description. The book mostly follows Matea, but the narrator, seemingly omniscient, follows all of the other characters in the story.
The story revolves around Matea’s journey as she slowly unravels and is on the path to becoming possessed by La Santa Muerte, basically a Mexican deity of death, similar to the grim reaper.
The writing was addicting and filled with beautiful imagery, and at times gruesome. I would classify this book in the horror genre with some fantasy elements. I could easily envision this book as a graphic novel or animated/live action series. I loved the incorporation of the Spanish language. As a Latina myself, I love seeing Spanish in books and I thought the author did a good job of giving enough context to non-Spanish speaking audiences.
That being said, the book is very short, maybe classified as a novella, so we don’t sit long with all the characters and are limited time with each of them. I wished we got more backstories on some of the side characters and even the main ones because they didn’t seem fully fleshed out. The book does end on a cliffhanger, and with a sneak peak at a sequel, so the story is set up as a series, not a stand-alone. I would definitely read the next book in the series to see what happens next with the characters.
The story revolves around Matea’s journey as she slowly unravels and is on the path to becoming possessed by La Santa Muerte, basically a Mexican deity of death, similar to the grim reaper.
The writing was addicting and filled with beautiful imagery, and at times gruesome. I would classify this book in the horror genre with some fantasy elements. I could easily envision this book as a graphic novel or animated/live action series. I loved the incorporation of the Spanish language. As a Latina myself, I love seeing Spanish in books and I thought the author did a good job of giving enough context to non-Spanish speaking audiences.
That being said, the book is very short, maybe classified as a novella, so we don’t sit long with all the characters and are limited time with each of them. I wished we got more backstories on some of the side characters and even the main ones because they didn’t seem fully fleshed out. The book does end on a cliffhanger, and with a sneak peak at a sequel, so the story is set up as a series, not a stand-alone. I would definitely read the next book in the series to see what happens next with the characters.
May 10, 2023
Love the cover, love the descriptive imagery, love the cultural aspects, and love the premise!
What I would’ve liked to see more of was character backstory, more time with each character’s POV, and more detailed exploration the connections to each other.
This is the first in a series, so hopefully the next book is a bit longer and answers more questions.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and BooksGoSocial for a copy!
What I would’ve liked to see more of was character backstory, more time with each character’s POV, and more detailed exploration the connections to each other.
This is the first in a series, so hopefully the next book is a bit longer and answers more questions.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and BooksGoSocial for a copy!
April 19, 2023
Matea has always felt different and separate from her peers; plagued by a growing black smudge on her hand, and visions of rattlesnakes following her. She can't explain what's going on, but all Matea knows is that the darkness calls to her and she struggles to stay away.
Sinner starts with Matea at the age of 9 being forced to go to church with her mother. She was marked by Santa Muerte (the Holy Lady of Death) before entering a church and ever since that moment, she started to see rattlesnakes, and her mother and grandmother started treating her differently.
As Matea grows into her early 20s she starts working at a distribution enter.
At the center you are introduced to 3 more main characters - Esme, Brandon, and Gina. While Brandon and Gina become her close confidantes and lovers, Esme quickly becomes her sworn enemy as they both practice Brujeria.
Matea harbors a deep-seated hatred towards Esme and does everything in her power to harm Esme. Matea gets her wish and realizes just how powerful she is when Esme ends up losing a finger at work and eventually a toe. Throughout the novel, Matea's grandmother's religious beliefs are explored, revealing why Santa Muerte plays such a significant role in Matea and Esme's lives.
I enjoyed the story a lot. I had a vague understanding of Brujeria before I read this novel and I enjoyed how it was incorporated into the story - it gave me a great opportunity to go down the Wikipedia rabbit hole on the topic!
What I didn't like about the book was how many POV's were involved - off hand I can think of 7 POVs. Each chapter will contain 4-5 POVs and sometimes it got weird and didn't flow. At least 5 of the POVs, I thought, were unnecessary. If you just had Matea and Esme's viewpoints, it would have made a more cohesive story. I wish there were most chapters just on Esme, her story was more interesting than Matea's.
This book is great if you're dipping your toes into the horror genre!
Sinner starts with Matea at the age of 9 being forced to go to church with her mother. She was marked by Santa Muerte (the Holy Lady of Death) before entering a church and ever since that moment, she started to see rattlesnakes, and her mother and grandmother started treating her differently.
As Matea grows into her early 20s she starts working at a distribution enter.
At the center you are introduced to 3 more main characters - Esme, Brandon, and Gina. While Brandon and Gina become her close confidantes and lovers, Esme quickly becomes her sworn enemy as they both practice Brujeria.
Matea harbors a deep-seated hatred towards Esme and does everything in her power to harm Esme. Matea gets her wish and realizes just how powerful she is when Esme ends up losing a finger at work and eventually a toe. Throughout the novel, Matea's grandmother's religious beliefs are explored, revealing why Santa Muerte plays such a significant role in Matea and Esme's lives.
I enjoyed the story a lot. I had a vague understanding of Brujeria before I read this novel and I enjoyed how it was incorporated into the story - it gave me a great opportunity to go down the Wikipedia rabbit hole on the topic!
What I didn't like about the book was how many POV's were involved - off hand I can think of 7 POVs. Each chapter will contain 4-5 POVs and sometimes it got weird and didn't flow. At least 5 of the POVs, I thought, were unnecessary. If you just had Matea and Esme's viewpoints, it would have made a more cohesive story. I wish there were most chapters just on Esme, her story was more interesting than Matea's.
This book is great if you're dipping your toes into the horror genre!
June 2, 2024
This was a dark and enjoyable read. The ending leaves you on the hook and invested to continue the series. Really good one for Spooktober. Love the writing and the story. Fans who enjoy mild horror and darker read will enjoy this one.
I appreciate Netgalley and the publisher for the chance to read this one. All opinions are my own.
I appreciate Netgalley and the publisher for the chance to read this one. All opinions are my own.
June 10, 2023
“Sinner” is the haunting first installment of the Santa Muerte series by Carol James Marshall. We follow Matea on a rather unconventional journey of self-discovery, watching as she battles her growing powers related to her mysterious connection with Santa Muerte - a deity known as the personification of death.
While the two have been linked for Matea’s entire lifetime, it is as an adult that Matea truly starts to see how the link can drastically influence her relationships with family, friends, and partners - and not in a good way. She quickly begins to spiral as she fights against her self-absorbed actions, growing into an unspeakable power that could be detrimental for all. Will she give in to the temptation of her desires? Does she really have a choice?
The overall vibes and atmosphere of this book were great - it’s dark but humorous and relatable at times (I loved the intense love between Matea and her dog, Mijo). I also loved how the author crafted a tale that blends both Mexican and American cultures. The use of Spanish and English throughout added something unique to the story, offering a fun and educational reading experience for me (a non-native Spanish speaker).
I did find that it took me a bit to really get into the story. I wasn’t connecting to the characters initially, and Matea in particular isn’t the most like-able person (which I’m pretty sure is intentional). Also, with the book being shorter, we didn’t get to spend a whole lot of time with each character, even the ones who had their own POVs. However, as the story progressed, I got more invested and wanted to see how things ended up.
Overall, I think this is a great read for anyone who is into multicultural stories involving dark magic, or is interested in learning more about Santa Muerte. It’s a quick read (about 215 pages) that still packs a punch with some disturbing imagery and witchy vibes!
Thank you to the author for providing me with a copy of this book in correspondence with Book Lover Blog Tours on Insta!
While the two have been linked for Matea’s entire lifetime, it is as an adult that Matea truly starts to see how the link can drastically influence her relationships with family, friends, and partners - and not in a good way. She quickly begins to spiral as she fights against her self-absorbed actions, growing into an unspeakable power that could be detrimental for all. Will she give in to the temptation of her desires? Does she really have a choice?
The overall vibes and atmosphere of this book were great - it’s dark but humorous and relatable at times (I loved the intense love between Matea and her dog, Mijo). I also loved how the author crafted a tale that blends both Mexican and American cultures. The use of Spanish and English throughout added something unique to the story, offering a fun and educational reading experience for me (a non-native Spanish speaker).
I did find that it took me a bit to really get into the story. I wasn’t connecting to the characters initially, and Matea in particular isn’t the most like-able person (which I’m pretty sure is intentional). Also, with the book being shorter, we didn’t get to spend a whole lot of time with each character, even the ones who had their own POVs. However, as the story progressed, I got more invested and wanted to see how things ended up.
Overall, I think this is a great read for anyone who is into multicultural stories involving dark magic, or is interested in learning more about Santa Muerte. It’s a quick read (about 215 pages) that still packs a punch with some disturbing imagery and witchy vibes!
Thank you to the author for providing me with a copy of this book in correspondence with Book Lover Blog Tours on Insta!
April 10, 2023
While scrolling through NetGalley the striking and beautifully illustrated cover of this book caught my eye, it wasn't until I clicked on it that I noticed the name of the author, Carol James Marshall. Having read some of her previous books I knew that this had the potential to be a genuinely dark and disturbing tale , and I could not wait to dive right in.
From the beginning it grabbed my attention as we are introduced to the main character, Matea, as a nine year old girl being brought back to Mexico by her mother to visit her grandmother. In a few brief sentences the author shows us what it feels like for Matea, living between two very different worlds and not quite sure where she really fits in either. She also knows that there is something different about her, she is drawn towards darkness, despite the best efforts of her mother and the nuns at her catholic school. Something strange happens on this visit and Matea's life is forever changed. As the book progresses Matea's story unfolds and we see just how different she is as she grows from a confused teen who fears she has a psychiatric illness because of the things she sees that no one else does to a young woman who is trying to come to terms with her strange abilities , figure out what she wants in life and deal with a former friend who has betrayed her.
This book was deliciously dark with elements of body horror that were chilling rather than gruesome and lots of nods to the author's Latina heritage and traditions but done in a way that felt very fresh and original. I found myself fully invested in Matea's story and keen to know what will happen next , and if the sample chapters from the next book in the series are anything to go by, I will not be disappointed.
I read and reviewed an ARC courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher, all opinions are my own.
From the beginning it grabbed my attention as we are introduced to the main character, Matea, as a nine year old girl being brought back to Mexico by her mother to visit her grandmother. In a few brief sentences the author shows us what it feels like for Matea, living between two very different worlds and not quite sure where she really fits in either. She also knows that there is something different about her, she is drawn towards darkness, despite the best efforts of her mother and the nuns at her catholic school. Something strange happens on this visit and Matea's life is forever changed. As the book progresses Matea's story unfolds and we see just how different she is as she grows from a confused teen who fears she has a psychiatric illness because of the things she sees that no one else does to a young woman who is trying to come to terms with her strange abilities , figure out what she wants in life and deal with a former friend who has betrayed her.
This book was deliciously dark with elements of body horror that were chilling rather than gruesome and lots of nods to the author's Latina heritage and traditions but done in a way that felt very fresh and original. I found myself fully invested in Matea's story and keen to know what will happen next , and if the sample chapters from the next book in the series are anything to go by, I will not be disappointed.
I read and reviewed an ARC courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher, all opinions are my own.
May 29, 2023
A fun and creepy first book in the Sinner series from Carol James Marshall, who mixes both Mexican/American culture effortlessly!
This book was such a vibe, as we follow Matea's journey through self-discovery and realization that her gifted power may have a larger grasp over her psyche than she understands. Mateas' connection to Santa Muerta begins affecting friendships, her love life, and family and will make the reader question if the MC is losing her grasp on reality, and if she has the power to control her inner most desires or if they control her?
I loved the authors ability to lose readers in a world of slithering snakes, dark magic, love and hatred to create one fantastically, creepy read with imagery that swept me up and kept my imagination playing on high!! 😏
Highly recommend if you like:
Dark Magic ✔️
Desire ✔️
Witches ✔️
Self discovery ✔️
Temptation ✔️
Multi Cultural ✔️
🐍🐍🐍
Synopsis:
A bruja is born.
What does a girl who envies the creep and darkness of a shadow become? From the time she was born, Matea had a connection to Santa Muerte that seemed to linger inside her. Matea's world seemed to bend around her in a way that no one else could comprehend. She trembled with an unexplained intensity, knowing that the cosmic forces and strange intuitions driving her forward were going to be impossible to control. Promised to Santa Muerte at birth Matea's life felt like it was constantly on the edge of something unpredictable and fear filled Matea's body as she considered what type of power, she may ultimately be capable of. Who could keep Matea from Santa Muerte's oppressive forces, and who would keep the world safe from Matea?
This book was such a vibe, as we follow Matea's journey through self-discovery and realization that her gifted power may have a larger grasp over her psyche than she understands. Mateas' connection to Santa Muerta begins affecting friendships, her love life, and family and will make the reader question if the MC is losing her grasp on reality, and if she has the power to control her inner most desires or if they control her?
I loved the authors ability to lose readers in a world of slithering snakes, dark magic, love and hatred to create one fantastically, creepy read with imagery that swept me up and kept my imagination playing on high!! 😏
Highly recommend if you like:
Dark Magic ✔️
Desire ✔️
Witches ✔️
Self discovery ✔️
Temptation ✔️
Multi Cultural ✔️
🐍🐍🐍
Synopsis:
A bruja is born.
What does a girl who envies the creep and darkness of a shadow become? From the time she was born, Matea had a connection to Santa Muerte that seemed to linger inside her. Matea's world seemed to bend around her in a way that no one else could comprehend. She trembled with an unexplained intensity, knowing that the cosmic forces and strange intuitions driving her forward were going to be impossible to control. Promised to Santa Muerte at birth Matea's life felt like it was constantly on the edge of something unpredictable and fear filled Matea's body as she considered what type of power, she may ultimately be capable of. Who could keep Matea from Santa Muerte's oppressive forces, and who would keep the world safe from Matea?
May 31, 2023
3.5 stars
I picked this book because I liked the cover and I want to read more horror. This book tells the story of Matea as she grows more powerful, but are the powers a gift or a curse? This book jumps perspective often which I liked because initially I connected least with Matea’s character. It was a bit slow in the beginning for me because of this, but the pacing picked up around the halfway point and I found myself intrigued and wanting to know what would happen next. I did like how dark it got, the dabbling with body horror, and slow changing of Matea’s physical appearance as she explored the depths of her magic. I also always looked forward to scenes where Santa Muerte would appear. In the next books I’m interested to see how Matea struggles with sharing power with La Santa or how she discovers where her power came from.
Something else I hope the next books expand on are the side characters because they felt a little flat to me. The writing also wasn’t as polished as it could be and a bit repetitive which stood out to me because when a book is this short I’m expecting very intentional word choice.
There is more to be told of Matea’s story and I can’t wait to read it!
Thank you to NetGalley for this advanced copy.
I picked this book because I liked the cover and I want to read more horror. This book tells the story of Matea as she grows more powerful, but are the powers a gift or a curse? This book jumps perspective often which I liked because initially I connected least with Matea’s character. It was a bit slow in the beginning for me because of this, but the pacing picked up around the halfway point and I found myself intrigued and wanting to know what would happen next. I did like how dark it got, the dabbling with body horror, and slow changing of Matea’s physical appearance as she explored the depths of her magic. I also always looked forward to scenes where Santa Muerte would appear. In the next books I’m interested to see how Matea struggles with sharing power with La Santa or how she discovers where her power came from.
Something else I hope the next books expand on are the side characters because they felt a little flat to me. The writing also wasn’t as polished as it could be and a bit repetitive which stood out to me because when a book is this short I’m expecting very intentional word choice.
There is more to be told of Matea’s story and I can’t wait to read it!
Thank you to NetGalley for this advanced copy.
June 9, 2023
4.5
This was a quick and enjoyable read. It has elements of body horror. It’s well written with original elements that I loved reading about 😍
We meet Matea as a young girl as she’s dragged to church by her mother. She feels like she doesn’t belong, that there is a sense of wrongness in her being there. The author creates an unsettling atmosphere in the first chapter that foreshadows what’s to come. From an early age, Matea can see snakes that no one else can see. She has a connection with La Santa Meurte after being promised to her at birth. We follow Matea as she grows up coming to terms with her growing powers. Her mother is trying to suppress her daughters magic while Mateas grandmother is a devout follower of La Santa Meurte. I loved the back and forth between Matea and her antagonist Esme, watching how their spells on one another turned out. This is where the body horror comes in. Despite being the antagonist of the story I really enjoyed Esmes character. Her connection to La Santa had me intrigued and I hope we see more of her. Mateas relationship with Brandon and Gina was intriguing to me. I was always wondering where it was going to go. I loved seeing Matea grow and embrace her magic and seeing the consequences of that. My only complaint was that the story for me was a bit too short. It left me wanting more! I did love the excerpt of the sequel. I’m definitely going to be checking out the second book.
This was a quick and enjoyable read. It has elements of body horror. It’s well written with original elements that I loved reading about 😍
We meet Matea as a young girl as she’s dragged to church by her mother. She feels like she doesn’t belong, that there is a sense of wrongness in her being there. The author creates an unsettling atmosphere in the first chapter that foreshadows what’s to come. From an early age, Matea can see snakes that no one else can see. She has a connection with La Santa Meurte after being promised to her at birth. We follow Matea as she grows up coming to terms with her growing powers. Her mother is trying to suppress her daughters magic while Mateas grandmother is a devout follower of La Santa Meurte. I loved the back and forth between Matea and her antagonist Esme, watching how their spells on one another turned out. This is where the body horror comes in. Despite being the antagonist of the story I really enjoyed Esmes character. Her connection to La Santa had me intrigued and I hope we see more of her. Mateas relationship with Brandon and Gina was intriguing to me. I was always wondering where it was going to go. I loved seeing Matea grow and embrace her magic and seeing the consequences of that. My only complaint was that the story for me was a bit too short. It left me wanting more! I did love the excerpt of the sequel. I’m definitely going to be checking out the second book.
April 16, 2023
3.5 Stars
I requested this book because of the title and summary. I was not disappointed. This was a fun and quick read for sure.
Definitely gets dark, but I'm a big fan of that. Though not all readers will love the religious, occult and dark aspects of this book, I really enjoyed it.
Matea's connection with Santa Muerte grows as this story goes on and so does the war between Esme and Matea. Marshall did an incredible job writing the characters so that I was rooting for and against each character throughout the books. Though the fact that I root for a bruja might say more about me.
This one is scheduled to come out May 31 and I'[d recommend giving it a read if you are into withches, culturally rich stories and a little darkness. I would have rated higher, but feel that some parts could have been a bit more flushed out. I am looking forward to reading the second book in this trilogy.
I received this ARC for free from NetGalley and am providing my own opinion of this book
I requested this book because of the title and summary. I was not disappointed. This was a fun and quick read for sure.
Definitely gets dark, but I'm a big fan of that. Though not all readers will love the religious, occult and dark aspects of this book, I really enjoyed it.
Matea's connection with Santa Muerte grows as this story goes on and so does the war between Esme and Matea. Marshall did an incredible job writing the characters so that I was rooting for and against each character throughout the books. Though the fact that I root for a bruja might say more about me.
This one is scheduled to come out May 31 and I'[d recommend giving it a read if you are into withches, culturally rich stories and a little darkness. I would have rated higher, but feel that some parts could have been a bit more flushed out. I am looking forward to reading the second book in this trilogy.
I received this ARC for free from NetGalley and am providing my own opinion of this book
June 3, 2023
I loved Sinner! It’s a horror novella about Matea who was promised to Santa Muerta (a death figure, from what I understand) at birth and seems to be struggling to decide if she wants to embrace her destiny or not.
Here’s what I liked:
💀the horror was really well done… I was gagging/gasping one page and laughing the next
💀the cultural aspects blending Mexican and Indigenous spiritual beliefs
💀the use of Spanish throughout, forcing me to look up phrases to know what was going on… I love when it isn’t spoon fed to me!
💀Oralia and Mijo, the grandma and the dog, respectively. They had me dying.
💀Some moments were funny, like this line: “What the hell did weekly vacuuming have to do with finding a severed human toe in her room?”
💀the teaser for book 2!
I do think the book could’ve done with a bit more editing. Format has a few confusing typos and some parts of the story could use a bit more fleshing out. But I think it’s good horror and I’d pick up book two. And isn’t this cover great?!
Here’s what I liked:
💀the horror was really well done… I was gagging/gasping one page and laughing the next
💀the cultural aspects blending Mexican and Indigenous spiritual beliefs
💀the use of Spanish throughout, forcing me to look up phrases to know what was going on… I love when it isn’t spoon fed to me!
💀Oralia and Mijo, the grandma and the dog, respectively. They had me dying.
💀Some moments were funny, like this line: “What the hell did weekly vacuuming have to do with finding a severed human toe in her room?”
💀the teaser for book 2!
I do think the book could’ve done with a bit more editing. Format has a few confusing typos and some parts of the story could use a bit more fleshing out. But I think it’s good horror and I’d pick up book two. And isn’t this cover great?!
June 12, 2023
Amazing Short Read
I want to start off by saying that I received a complimentary ebook. By the end of this book. I did end up buying my own ebook copy. In return for my honest thoughts and my review.
This will not be the last book I read from this author. I fell in love with this book. I love reading books with Mexican/Latin characters. The world and the story this author created amazing. Supporting indie authors. I believe that is so important. The bisexual relationships is done very nicely in this book. Matea is a strong female character. I wasn’t a fan of Brandon. I love her and her personality.
I did preorder book 2 which releases at the end of this month. Yes this book is a short book and took me a minute to finish it. I don’t like to reach books I am really getting into. And this book was no exception of boring or I couldn’t get into. Love this book and highly recommend this book.
I want to also thank bookloverblogtours for reaching out to me. And giving me opportunity to read a book. That I honestly didn’t know I needed in my love.
I want to start off by saying that I received a complimentary ebook. By the end of this book. I did end up buying my own ebook copy. In return for my honest thoughts and my review.
This will not be the last book I read from this author. I fell in love with this book. I love reading books with Mexican/Latin characters. The world and the story this author created amazing. Supporting indie authors. I believe that is so important. The bisexual relationships is done very nicely in this book. Matea is a strong female character. I wasn’t a fan of Brandon. I love her and her personality.
I did preorder book 2 which releases at the end of this month. Yes this book is a short book and took me a minute to finish it. I don’t like to reach books I am really getting into. And this book was no exception of boring or I couldn’t get into. Love this book and highly recommend this book.
I want to also thank bookloverblogtours for reaching out to me. And giving me opportunity to read a book. That I honestly didn’t know I needed in my love.
July 22, 2023
Round up to 2.5⭐️
The cover of this book and the synopsis really drew me in! If you love gore, Mexican gothic elements and dark magic, you’ll absolutely eat this up.
Its atmospheric and creepy, and will down-right make you shiver at times.
Its short so could be classified as a novella, easy to read in one sitting.
We follow Matea as these strange occurrences start happening to her, where we soon find out she has been marked by La Santa Muerte (Mexican goddess of death, basically equivalent to the grim reaper) and being taken over by her one bone at a time.
And this is where the story kicks off, reaping you in to a dark fantasy horror that will have you wanting book two by tomorrow.
Though this was not the type of book I enjoy, I think many will enjoy the horror and fantasy gore elements that are weaved into these pages.
The cover of this book and the synopsis really drew me in! If you love gore, Mexican gothic elements and dark magic, you’ll absolutely eat this up.
Its atmospheric and creepy, and will down-right make you shiver at times.
Its short so could be classified as a novella, easy to read in one sitting.
We follow Matea as these strange occurrences start happening to her, where we soon find out she has been marked by La Santa Muerte (Mexican goddess of death, basically equivalent to the grim reaper) and being taken over by her one bone at a time.
And this is where the story kicks off, reaping you in to a dark fantasy horror that will have you wanting book two by tomorrow.
Though this was not the type of book I enjoy, I think many will enjoy the horror and fantasy gore elements that are weaved into these pages.
June 29, 2023
My thoughts: I didn’t think snakes could get any creepier. I was so wrong!
This book was full of Mexican culture and folklore. It was witchy, dark, spooky and beautifully written. I loved the LGBTQ representation. I really enjoyed it!
You get Matea’s point of view as well as points of view of those around her. Matea is such an interesting character. She knows she has this darkness within her and it was interesting to follow her journey of discovering her power. Her dog, Mijo is perfection!
While this was a creepy read, there was humor sprinkled throughout which was a lot of fun. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series. Can’t wait to learn more about the different characters!
This book was full of Mexican culture and folklore. It was witchy, dark, spooky and beautifully written. I loved the LGBTQ representation. I really enjoyed it!
You get Matea’s point of view as well as points of view of those around her. Matea is such an interesting character. She knows she has this darkness within her and it was interesting to follow her journey of discovering her power. Her dog, Mijo is perfection!
While this was a creepy read, there was humor sprinkled throughout which was a lot of fun. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series. Can’t wait to learn more about the different characters!
May 12, 2023
This is the first book I've read from this author, and I'm so glad I stumbled upon this in Netgalley because Holy shit!!!
This book is fantastic!! I'm currently obsessed with gothic vibes, which is perfect for my craving. I would say that this is more horror rather than fantasy, I mean, some of the scenes are pretty gruesome, but I enjoy everything this book has to offer.
The plot itself is exciting and offers an unsettling, twisted, and mysterious plotline. The character is so complex and compelling. I love it when Matea finally gives in and starts to lean into the darkness. It left me wanting to read more and more, and I can't stop; it's pretty fast-paced, which is good, and I genuinely recommend this book for fantasy-horror babes out there!!!
Thank you, Netgalley, Author, and Publisher, for this E-arc.
This book is fantastic!! I'm currently obsessed with gothic vibes, which is perfect for my craving. I would say that this is more horror rather than fantasy, I mean, some of the scenes are pretty gruesome, but I enjoy everything this book has to offer.
The plot itself is exciting and offers an unsettling, twisted, and mysterious plotline. The character is so complex and compelling. I love it when Matea finally gives in and starts to lean into the darkness. It left me wanting to read more and more, and I can't stop; it's pretty fast-paced, which is good, and I genuinely recommend this book for fantasy-horror babes out there!!!
Thank you, Netgalley, Author, and Publisher, for this E-arc.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 6, 2023
Sinner tells the story of Matea as she as slowly becomes possessed by La Santa Muerte, essentially a Mexican deity of death. This is a spooky and haunting novel full of folklore, culture and beautiful imagery. I loved the witch-iness, the unique use of snakes and learning about La Santa Muerte (yes I went on a deep dive researching and loved every minute of it).
I saw other reviews mentioning that the different points of view didn’t work for them, but I actually didn’t mind it. It was nice to learn more about the other characters and how their stories intertwined. Really my only complaint is that I would have liked more backstory about the characters, especially Matea’s mom and grandmother.
I am usually not a series reader, but I am incredibly excited to see what comes next for Martea and am really hoping for some more backstory on her and the rest of the characters. Overall, this was spooky, haunting and beautifully written & I highly recommend checking it out (unless you’re afraid of snakes…)
I saw other reviews mentioning that the different points of view didn’t work for them, but I actually didn’t mind it. It was nice to learn more about the other characters and how their stories intertwined. Really my only complaint is that I would have liked more backstory about the characters, especially Matea’s mom and grandmother.
I am usually not a series reader, but I am incredibly excited to see what comes next for Martea and am really hoping for some more backstory on her and the rest of the characters. Overall, this was spooky, haunting and beautifully written & I highly recommend checking it out (unless you’re afraid of snakes…)
June 7, 2023
There’s a lot to love about this book. You’re hooked from the beginning as Matea’s story starts aged 9, a fast pace moves the story along, the imagery created by the writing is fantastic and just look at the gorgeous cover! I loved the concept of the book and I enjoyed the different POVs, especially Esme’s - I wish we’d had more of that. I personally would have liked a bit more detail surrounding a few of the other characters too but as this book ends on a cliffhanger, this could easily be incorporated into the other books in the series. I think it’s great how inclusive the book is too 😊 I did however have to google translate quite a few of the Spanish phrases so I had a better understanding of what was going on which did slow down the read quite a bit.
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I’d recommend though if you’re after a way to ease into the horror genre 👍🏻
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I received an advance review copy from BookLoverBlogTours for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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I’d recommend though if you’re after a way to ease into the horror genre 👍🏻
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I received an advance review copy from BookLoverBlogTours for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 27, 2023
Matea is a witch and is chosen by La Santa Muerte. The first instalment of the series and sets up the plot nicely. I wish there was some action, I felt like I was waiting for something to happen and it just didn’t. Kept me on the edge but I just wanted a little more.
I loved the Mexican bruja culture incorporated into a more modern setting, and it was intriguing to read some of the spells and brujería. Just wished there was a tad bit more drama, the plot with Esme and Brandon could have been fleshed out some more.
I hope the second instalment delivers some more chaos!
I loved the Mexican bruja culture incorporated into a more modern setting, and it was intriguing to read some of the spells and brujería. Just wished there was a tad bit more drama, the plot with Esme and Brandon could have been fleshed out some more.
I hope the second instalment delivers some more chaos!
April 2, 2023
The beginning of a mesmerizing series. Richly immersed in a culture most of us are unaware of with characters just as complex. This is not one that will let you go with the last page. Both the plot and characters will take up residence! Can't wait for the continuation.
May 7, 2023
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC
In Sinner we are going to follow the story of Matea, a witch who will discover her powers and the relationship she has with Santa Muerte, as well as the implications that this will bring to her life.
I think one of the strengths of the story is how well constructed it is. As a Mexican, I am in more contact with the background that exists in the cult of death and witchcraft, so I could feel close to history and I enjoyed the mix of English and Spanish although I would have liked to see a little more Spanish.
I also became attached to some characters like Esme and Matea's mother.
Without a doubt, it is an easy-to-read and addictive story.
In Sinner we are going to follow the story of Matea, a witch who will discover her powers and the relationship she has with Santa Muerte, as well as the implications that this will bring to her life.
I think one of the strengths of the story is how well constructed it is. As a Mexican, I am in more contact with the background that exists in the cult of death and witchcraft, so I could feel close to history and I enjoyed the mix of English and Spanish although I would have liked to see a little more Spanish.
I also became attached to some characters like Esme and Matea's mother.
Without a doubt, it is an easy-to-read and addictive story.
May 19, 2023
Review- I was gifted this book in return for a honest review. I absolutely loved this book, the cover instantly drew me in and soon as I read the synopsis it was a no brainer this was going to be a book I enjoyed. The descriptive imagery, I loved the cultural aspects of the story , I loved reading about the witchcraft. This is a shorter book ( I read it in two sittings as I couldn’t put it down) so we get a introduction into the characters and the story line which had left me very much looking forward to book two to find out more about the individual characters. If you like books that are Witchy, a little bit dark and twisted with a page turner story line then I would highly recommend 4 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
June 3, 2023
I read the blurb to this one and knew I'd love it! It has everything I love: Witches , mythology and a mix of Horror. The imagery in the book is amazing & it's like watching a film! Without giving anything away Mate sees snakes everywhere.
There's a scene in the church an where the snakes are curling around peoples legs and over their heads.
La Santa Muerte is described in so much detail I could see her in my mind, feel her reaching out through the pages of the book! If you, like me like Horror and the strange and unusual your going to love this!
Thank you to Carol the author for letting me review this book through a blog tour ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
There's a scene in the church an where the snakes are curling around peoples legs and over their heads.
La Santa Muerte is described in so much detail I could see her in my mind, feel her reaching out through the pages of the book! If you, like me like Horror and the strange and unusual your going to love this!
Thank you to Carol the author for letting me review this book through a blog tour ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
September 2, 2023
DNF at 32%. The writing felt very sluggish and I even gave myself a few extra chapters near the end to try to get into it, but I just couldn’t. I’m a mood reader so it could just be a timing thing. Might try again later in the fall during spooky season.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC in exchange for an honest review!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC in exchange for an honest review!
June 21, 2023
THIS BOOK WAS SO COOL!
I loved this book so much because the book world was AMAZING... I was so intrigued by the horror and the imagery that this author used to describe her characters and their actions.
The lore and horror of Santa Muerte was sooooooooooo cool and I cannot read more of this in the next installment. I was also intrigued about the dynamics between Merta and her family and her very interesting relationships with her friends.
Her visions of her power were also soooooo creepy and so so cool.
Also I loved how a lot of dialogue was in Spanish because I was able to practice lol
I cannot wait for the next installment because that cliffhanger was CRAZY!
I loved this book so much because the book world was AMAZING... I was so intrigued by the horror and the imagery that this author used to describe her characters and their actions.
The lore and horror of Santa Muerte was sooooooooooo cool and I cannot read more of this in the next installment. I was also intrigued about the dynamics between Merta and her family and her very interesting relationships with her friends.
Her visions of her power were also soooooo creepy and so so cool.
Also I loved how a lot of dialogue was in Spanish because I was able to practice lol
I cannot wait for the next installment because that cliffhanger was CRAZY!
April 17, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book.
There were parts that didn’t make sense since they were details that came out of nowhere. It was as if two characters who never interacted in a work environment suddenly had a decades-long friendship. I missed the subtle setup that would have made those details pack more of a punch.
This problem leads to no one of the book’s downfalls: there’s a lot going on. We are following four different characters pretty well and then get POV scenes and chapters from other characters. It wasn’t consistent and felt like too much in a book that short. I don’t know if it would have been better to let those POV people have more or get rid of them entirely. The one character that I would have loved more POV from was Esme. You have to make me care that your villain may succeed.
This is the first book in the series and so my question at the end was “Would I continue this series?” The short answer: no. I really wish I could, but it didn’t latch onto me as well as I wanted it to.
There were parts that didn’t make sense since they were details that came out of nowhere. It was as if two characters who never interacted in a work environment suddenly had a decades-long friendship. I missed the subtle setup that would have made those details pack more of a punch.
This problem leads to no one of the book’s downfalls: there’s a lot going on. We are following four different characters pretty well and then get POV scenes and chapters from other characters. It wasn’t consistent and felt like too much in a book that short. I don’t know if it would have been better to let those POV people have more or get rid of them entirely. The one character that I would have loved more POV from was Esme. You have to make me care that your villain may succeed.
This is the first book in the series and so my question at the end was “Would I continue this series?” The short answer: no. I really wish I could, but it didn’t latch onto me as well as I wanted it to.
April 29, 2023
I was really looking forward to reading this novel but unfortunately it was not for me. I just couldn't connect with any of the characters and the writing style was a bit clunky eg. repeating characters names when unnecessary.
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
April 1, 2023
Full disclosure, I was provided a copy of this book by the author, however, have voluntarily chosen to write a review. All opinions are my own
Sinner is scheduled for a May 31,2023 release
A bruja is born
Matea has always had a shadow hanging around her. From a very young age she has battled the snakes. Those mischievous serpents that only she sees and always comes at the wrong times to try to make her look crazy. As the child of a very devout woman, Matea has spent her younger years being carted between Mexicali, Mexico and Calexico, California. When her mother Amparo wasn’t attending mass, she was frequenting the neighborhood bruja La Doña Lupe for blessings and other items. Matea at least has a reprieve in her job at the fulfillment center where she works long hours with her best friends Gina and Brandon. And now that Abuela Oralia has come to live with her family she no longer must take the trips to Mexicali which gives her more time to spend with her friends. If she could just do something about Esme, the snob – the one coworker she cannot stand – always in her face and hanging around Brandon. And it seems the feeling is mutual as the pair begin a volley of barbs and passive aggressive actions toward each other. It is only when Matea realizes that the serpents up to now only she has been able to see can be useful in her war with Esme, she slowly begins to embrace the darkness that has been growing inside her since birth. With bruja blood running in her veins and La Santa Muerte slowly gaining hold Matea launches an all-out war against her nemesis, but she is not unopposed. When the dust clears Matea may end up losing more than just eliminating her enemy.
Sinner is the first book in the upcoming La Santa Muerte series by author Carol James Marshall. Having been a long time reader of her work I was eager to dig into this new series. Historically, Marshall’s horror has been more fantastical involving aliens, superior races, cannibals and even mermaids and leprechauns but with the Santa Muerte series she has brought the topic more into the reality that many people embrace daily. Drawing on the lore of La Santa Muerte and the religious practices to which her devotees adhere, Marshall has created a story that was quite interesting. Definitely hard to read in parts, and possibly not for everyone as the occult is very prevalent, but for those who are not opposed to reading such topics, Sinner is a great read. The focus in the story is Matea, a young woman who has been promised to La Santa since birth as she comes into her powers and discovers what she is capable of. On the other side we have her ultra-religious mother who tries in vain to suppress the inevitable and her grandmother, a practicing bruja herself, who while not exactly encouraging Matea, is definitely nudging her into La Santa’s arms. The addition of Esme as Matea’s main antagonist really amps up the story in my opinion as the hatred between the two is palpable and their escalating landmines and tricks left for each other really kept me wondering how far they would take their feud. At the beginning of the book, Marshall did a good job at portraying Matea as someone who I felt sorry for, but as her back story was revealed and the drama with Esme unfolded I really started to begin to root for her and I was looking forward to what she was going to conjure up next.
With Sinner being the first in what is going to be a trilogy, I am looking forward to reading Vessel the continuation of Matea and Esme’s war which is currently scheduled for a summer release.
If you are a fan of occult horror, witches, and the chaos they can cause. Sinner could be just the creepy Springtime read for you.
Sinner is scheduled for a May 31,2023 release
A bruja is born
Matea has always had a shadow hanging around her. From a very young age she has battled the snakes. Those mischievous serpents that only she sees and always comes at the wrong times to try to make her look crazy. As the child of a very devout woman, Matea has spent her younger years being carted between Mexicali, Mexico and Calexico, California. When her mother Amparo wasn’t attending mass, she was frequenting the neighborhood bruja La Doña Lupe for blessings and other items. Matea at least has a reprieve in her job at the fulfillment center where she works long hours with her best friends Gina and Brandon. And now that Abuela Oralia has come to live with her family she no longer must take the trips to Mexicali which gives her more time to spend with her friends. If she could just do something about Esme, the snob – the one coworker she cannot stand – always in her face and hanging around Brandon. And it seems the feeling is mutual as the pair begin a volley of barbs and passive aggressive actions toward each other. It is only when Matea realizes that the serpents up to now only she has been able to see can be useful in her war with Esme, she slowly begins to embrace the darkness that has been growing inside her since birth. With bruja blood running in her veins and La Santa Muerte slowly gaining hold Matea launches an all-out war against her nemesis, but she is not unopposed. When the dust clears Matea may end up losing more than just eliminating her enemy.
Sinner is the first book in the upcoming La Santa Muerte series by author Carol James Marshall. Having been a long time reader of her work I was eager to dig into this new series. Historically, Marshall’s horror has been more fantastical involving aliens, superior races, cannibals and even mermaids and leprechauns but with the Santa Muerte series she has brought the topic more into the reality that many people embrace daily. Drawing on the lore of La Santa Muerte and the religious practices to which her devotees adhere, Marshall has created a story that was quite interesting. Definitely hard to read in parts, and possibly not for everyone as the occult is very prevalent, but for those who are not opposed to reading such topics, Sinner is a great read. The focus in the story is Matea, a young woman who has been promised to La Santa since birth as she comes into her powers and discovers what she is capable of. On the other side we have her ultra-religious mother who tries in vain to suppress the inevitable and her grandmother, a practicing bruja herself, who while not exactly encouraging Matea, is definitely nudging her into La Santa’s arms. The addition of Esme as Matea’s main antagonist really amps up the story in my opinion as the hatred between the two is palpable and their escalating landmines and tricks left for each other really kept me wondering how far they would take their feud. At the beginning of the book, Marshall did a good job at portraying Matea as someone who I felt sorry for, but as her back story was revealed and the drama with Esme unfolded I really started to begin to root for her and I was looking forward to what she was going to conjure up next.
With Sinner being the first in what is going to be a trilogy, I am looking forward to reading Vessel the continuation of Matea and Esme’s war which is currently scheduled for a summer release.
If you are a fan of occult horror, witches, and the chaos they can cause. Sinner could be just the creepy Springtime read for you.
January 22, 2025
I have to thank netgalley for the opportunity to read this book before its publication date.
Carol James Marshall’s Sinner is a dark and provocative exploration of human nature, morality, and the boundaries of horror. This chilling psychological thriller delivers a story that’s as thought-provoking as it is unsettling, cementing Marshall’s place as a master of modern horror.
A Gripping and Unnerving Narrative
From the opening pages, Sinner pulls readers into a twisted world where nothing is as it seems. Marshall’s skillful pacing keeps the tension simmering, with moments of sheer terror punctuated by quieter, introspective passages that delve into the psyche of the characters. The story is layered and unpredictable, keeping readers on edge until the very end.
Complex, Flawed Characters
At the heart of Sinner is a cast of deeply flawed and compelling characters. Marshall’s protagonists are far from perfect, but their struggles and moral dilemmas make them all the more relatable. As the story unfolds, readers are forced to confront uncomfortable questions about guilt, redemption, and what it truly means to be a “sinner.”
A Unique Blend of Horror and Psychological Drama
Marshall masterfully blends elements of psychological horror with visceral, eerie imagery. The book’s atmosphere is thick with dread, and the horror is as much about the characters’ internal conflicts as it is about the external threats they face. This duality adds depth to the narrative, elevating it beyond a typical horror story.
Themes of Morality and Redemption
Sinner is as much a philosophical exploration as it is a horror novel. Marshall delves into themes of sin, punishment, and redemption, forcing readers to grapple with their own beliefs about right and wrong. The questions the book raises linger long after the final page, making it a story that stays with you.
Final Thoughts
Carol James Marshall’s Sinner is a haunting and intelligent work of horror that pushes boundaries and challenges perceptions. With its gripping narrative, complex characters, and profound themes, it’s a book that will leave readers questioning the nature of sin and the human capacity for redemption.
Carol James Marshall’s Sinner is a dark and provocative exploration of human nature, morality, and the boundaries of horror. This chilling psychological thriller delivers a story that’s as thought-provoking as it is unsettling, cementing Marshall’s place as a master of modern horror.
A Gripping and Unnerving Narrative
From the opening pages, Sinner pulls readers into a twisted world where nothing is as it seems. Marshall’s skillful pacing keeps the tension simmering, with moments of sheer terror punctuated by quieter, introspective passages that delve into the psyche of the characters. The story is layered and unpredictable, keeping readers on edge until the very end.
Complex, Flawed Characters
At the heart of Sinner is a cast of deeply flawed and compelling characters. Marshall’s protagonists are far from perfect, but their struggles and moral dilemmas make them all the more relatable. As the story unfolds, readers are forced to confront uncomfortable questions about guilt, redemption, and what it truly means to be a “sinner.”
A Unique Blend of Horror and Psychological Drama
Marshall masterfully blends elements of psychological horror with visceral, eerie imagery. The book’s atmosphere is thick with dread, and the horror is as much about the characters’ internal conflicts as it is about the external threats they face. This duality adds depth to the narrative, elevating it beyond a typical horror story.
Themes of Morality and Redemption
Sinner is as much a philosophical exploration as it is a horror novel. Marshall delves into themes of sin, punishment, and redemption, forcing readers to grapple with their own beliefs about right and wrong. The questions the book raises linger long after the final page, making it a story that stays with you.
Final Thoughts
Carol James Marshall’s Sinner is a haunting and intelligent work of horror that pushes boundaries and challenges perceptions. With its gripping narrative, complex characters, and profound themes, it’s a book that will leave readers questioning the nature of sin and the human capacity for redemption.
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