Painter of the Damned

Painted Souls #2

by Rob Samborn

A soul mate trapped in purgatory.

Dangerous alliances.

The quest for ultimate power.

After escaping Venice with their lives, Nick and Julia O'Connor have one return home so they can end their nightmare vacation. But before they reach the American consulate, they're captured by Interpol and returned to Venice.

Behind Nick's detention is Salvatore della Porta, the corrupt head of an ancient, enigmatic order that controls Paradise , Tintoretto's Renaissance masterpiece that's also a purgatory for thousands of souls—including Nick's soul mate from the sixteenth century.

Della Porta believes Nick's previous life knows the location of a book lost to the ages. This mysterious manuscript will bring him world-changing power—or topple the order.

As Nick's link to the past consumes him, it's up to Julia to save her husband and crush della Porta. But with friends in short supply, she must enlist Carlo Zuccaro, unaware the young artist is the order's new Painter and warden of the damned.

Genres: Historical, Fiction, Thriller

488 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 25, 2022

About the author

In addition to being a novelist, Rob Samborn is a screenwriter, entrepreneur and avid traveler. He’s been to forty countries, lived in five of them and studied nine languages. As a restless spirit who can’t remember the last time he was bored, Rob is on a quest to explore the intricacies of our world and try his hand at a multitude of crafts; he’s also an accomplished artist and musician, as well as a budding furniture maker. Originally from New York City, he lived in Los Angeles for twenty years, and now makes his home in Denver with his wife, daughter and dog.

Be sure to follow Rob on BookBub for the latest deals and announcements on his books!

Reviews

[Natalie all_books_great_and_small · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a gifted copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review as part of the book tour hosted by Book and Wine Lovers PR.

Painter of the Damned is the second book in a fast paced series. I haven't read book one as I didn't realise it was a series and I did find parts confusing due in fact to my not having read book one. However I still enjoyed the book.
We follow Nick and Julia as they escape from Venice after a nightmare vacation, but just as they're about to escape they are captured by Interpol and then returned back to Venice again. This novel is a woven story of betrayal, not knowing who to trust and a race against time. Julia has to save her husband which is not going to be an easy accomplishment. I loved how history, art and culture was mixed with mystery, action, romance and even thriller vibes throughout this story. This was such a unique well plotted story and I will definitely be reading book one to fill in some gaps.

[Kathy Maresca · Rating 5 out of 5]

A cinematic journey of intrigue and action, Painter of the Damned transports us to a world unlike any other. Samborn writes beautifully, with intricacies that suspend a reader’s disbelief. I had to remind myself, time after time, that I was reading fiction.

How does Rob Samborn plunge the reader so deeply into Painter of the Damned? He takes us on a journey of senses. I can smell the flowers, perfume, and food. Speaking of food, he writes about it in a way that made me want to devour the Italian cuisine, even the anchovies. The architecture, physical attributes of characters and their clothing, books, and swords are described brilliantly. The author of “Painter” creates a beautiful picture of Venice and Madrid. I feel as though I have been there.

The scintillating suspense weaves a dual timeline with breathtaking action and authentic dialogue, sprinkled with words from a variety of languages. I can’t wait to read more of this action-packed drama. So real. So beautiful. Hurry to the presses with the next book!

For my CF friends: some cursing in this book but no blasphemy or anything lascivious.

[Shanessa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rob Samborn has done it again! With cinematic action and exquisite writing, Painter of the Damned is a sweeping sequel that exceeded all my expectations.

Combining classical art, rich Venetian history, compelling characters, and a centuries-old conspiracy, Samborn weaves an intelligent, intricate story with nonstop momentum that will leave you breathless.

Engrossing, mysterious, romantic, and altogether original, Painter of the Damned is a literary triumph that cleared the extremely high bar set by its predecessor. I can’t wait to see what tricks Samborn has up his sleeve for the next installment of the Painted Souls series.

[Melanie | addictedtobooks86 · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.25/5 stars

The sequel to The Prisoner of Paradise did not disappoint! I loved the writing, the characters, the rich history, mystery, and the setting of Venice, Italy. I was completely immersed in the world yet again, as Samborn’s writing tends to suck you in and spin you for a thrilling ride that you do not want to come off of!

I loved the mixture of mystery, history, and romance. This is such a unique plot, where Samborn weaves together different genres that leave the reader completely captivated in the Venetian world, history, and the incredibly well-developed characters.

If you are a fan of mystery reads, historical fiction, romance, or the show Outlander-this one will tick all of your boxes! Definitely pick up the first book in the series, and this one as well.

Rob-I cannot wait to read book 3 in your series!! I am looking forward to find out what else you have up your sleeve for this captivating series! Thank you again for the opportunity!



I received a gifted copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having read and enjoyed the first book in this series, I was looking forward to this sequel and I was definitely not disappointed. Carrying on from the end of the previous story, I would personally recommend reading these novels in order, especially as the storyline is rather intriguing and complex. Nick and Julia O'Connor have escaped Venice with their lives following their nightmare vacation, and are trying to return home. However, before they can reach the American consulate, they are captured by Interpol and then returned to Venice. While Nick is detained, it’s up to Julia to save her husband, but she doesn’t know who she can trust. Especially when it’s the corrupt head of an ancient, enigmatic order, Salvatore della Porta, who’s behind Nick’s detainment.

Della Porta’s order are the ones who controls Paradise, “Tintoretto's Renaissance masterpiece that's also a purgatory for thousands of souls, including Nick's soul mate from the 16th century”. Della Porta is after a mysterious manuscript which can either end his order or bring him world changing power, and he thinks Nick knows the location of this book. Meanwhile, Julia enlists the help of a young artist, Carlo Zuccaro, but is unaware that he is actually the order's new Painter and warden of the damned. This is a gripping read, which had me hooked from start to finish. The descriptive narrative brings both the setting and characters vividly to life, making me feel fully immersed in the story. This was an entertaining and engaging read which I would definitely recommend.

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's very important to read these books in order to understand the context of what's happening.

This book picks up right where Book 1 (The Prisoner of Paradise) left off. Nick and Julia are still trying to get back home when they are sent back to Venice. The Order is not about to let them get away with what they think is important information.

There is a lot of action and adventure in this story as well! There are a few twists and turns that I did not see coming. I really enjoy this author's writing and look forward to reading more great stories of his!

[Angela Shirley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nick and Julia have had enough, trying to get to the American Consulate to get home from the horrendous trip away, but unbeknownst to them Salvatore is hiding in the wings ready to get them transported back to Venice.

Salvatore is convinced that Nick has the lost knowledge to find the location of the manuscript, but can Nick get the information required before he is consumed with his past life. Julia must work to try and help her husband release his past life and take Salvatore down in the process.

Can Julia help her husband and bring him back from the past, you will need to find out?

Oh, my lord, I have come into this series with this book and although I did struggle with some of the back knowledge from the first book it did not distract me from the utterly mind shattering story. The story was captivating full of magic and mystery with a sprinkling of ancient Italy. The added complexity of past lives and twists and turns leaves you wanting more.

The story is fast paced and will draw you into worlds of treachery and mysteries of the past which will have you turning the pages to try and discover more. To be fair this would not be a book I would instantly be drawn too but was recommended by a friend and oh my I can’t wait to read more by this wonderful author and this wonderful series.

[Dawn Daughenbaugh · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Stars
Painter of the Damned (Painted Souls Book 2) by Rob Samborn

Painter of the Damned is the second book in the Painted Souls Series and is a wonderfully written Historical Thriller that will grab your attention from the beginning and doesn’t let go till the end. I’d highly recommend reading the first book in this series if you haven’t already as it gives you a better understanding of what is going on and you get to know the characters better plus its just as amazing as this one. Nick and Julia are just trying to get home Venice and leave behind the nightmare of a vacation but before they make it to the American Consulate they are captured by Interpol and returned to Venice. Della Porta believes Nick knows the location of a book that will give him world changing powers. As the past seems to take over nick its completely up to Julia to take down Della Porta and save Nick. Holy Cow this book is packed full of action ,drama, suspense and so much more. I have recommend reading this nail biting thriller to find out what happens next. I’m looking forward to seeing what he brings us next.

[Bruce Leonard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yet Another Thrilling Read

Rob Samborn is stringing together quite a literary success story. His latest thriller, Painter of the Damned, continues the pulse-pounding saga that began in The Prisoner of Paradise. If readers also read in his stand-alone novella, The Swordsman of Venice, they will experience history at its most exciting, a love story for the ages, and a detailed tour of Venice, all while turning pages rapidly to see what happens next to Nick and Julia in the Painted Souls series.

[Rob Samborn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This review is for the audiobook version.

You often hear authors refer to their books as babies. As I write this, I have a 7YO and my wife is 8.5 months pregnant. Broadly speaking, comparing books to babies is a somewhat accurate, if not self-centered, analogy. At its most granular analysis, there is the process of creation and the nerve-wracking moment(s) of bringing something you love into the world. Something that needs to be nurtured and cared for. Something that has no chance of survival without the aid and attention of many others.

In most cases when a book is turned into an audiobook, the author has little to no involvement in the process. In my case, other than the incredibly generosity of Tantor Media allowing me to select my favorite of their narrators, I wasn't involved in the process at all.

The only way I can describe listening to your own book being read to you is this: imagine you willingly give your baby to someone else to raise, and while you are fully aware of it happening and who the surrogate parent is, you have no contact with that child until they reach maturity.

Is it a fair comparison? Maybe, maybe not. Am I being insensitive to anyone? I hope not. Remember, as I write this, my wife is 8.5 months pregnant, so my mind is a tad preoccupied.

Let's go with it. In this situation, the parent can do nothing but cross their fingers and hope for the best.

And that brings me to Painter of the Damned and its surrogate parent, Zac Aleman.

Quite simply, I hit the jackpot with Zac. I've listened to dozens of audiobooks and he is far and away the best narrator I've heard. Narration is an artform, and a difficult one at that. There are so many nuances. To name a few: pacing, consistency, emotion (without being too emotive), capturing the author's meaning and sentiment, accents, voices, and more. And all of that needs to be done over 15-20 hours of speaking. My mouth shrivels after reading aloud for just 10 minutes.

Zac Aleman's reading of Painter of the Damned is brilliant. And when a difficulty level is applied, I can confidently say it's the best performance I've ever heard. Painter of the Damned spans two countries, multiple time periods, dozens of characters of all ages and genders, and at least five distinct accents. He's a one-man show destined for greatness.

I cannot rave about him enough.

Thank you, Zac!

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great thriller, well for me anyway. It was do intriguing to read Samborn writes beautifully, making the reader want to continue to read till the very end. He made it seem like it was coming to life through each word. He makes you sense everything with smell, and makes you want to eat the food he writes about. When he writes about the places in the book, Venice and Madrid he makes you think you are really there. The suspense written is breathtaking, and writes in different languages. Now I want to read the first book he wrote and more books he has written.

[Lorralei Hoerner · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Stars!! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

This is book #2 in the series and it definitely did not disappoint!! Highly recommended to read the first book before picking up book two as this story really evolves and flows into the second book. This book makes me want to visit Venice...the art and culture itself!!

Nick and Julia O'Connor have been captured! Going home was the goal but Interpol had other plans. Unfortunately Nick is contained and it is up to Julia to save the day...but there is betrayal and Julia just does not know whom to trust at this point...especially since Salvatore believe Nick is aware of where the mysterious book is hidden....

This book is full twists, turns, history, art and action!! This authors attention to detail is just phenomenal and I am looking forward and being hopeful with a 3rd book :).

[Thomas Riddell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story enchanted me with history, magic, art, adventure and the characters were absolutely captivating. A Must Read!

In the 2nd novel of this series Nick and Julia O'Connor are hoping to return home from their vacation in Venice, which has been nothing less than a nightmare. Nick is trying desperately to rid his mind, and his desires, for a 16th century soul mate who is entombed in a Tintoretto painting. It is a purgatory for thousands of other souls. The painting titled Paradise is controlled by Salvatore della Porta, a corrupt head of an ancient, enigmatic order. Nick and Julia are enroute to the American consulate when they are detained by Interpol and Salvatore della Porta is behind it all.

Salvatore believes that Nick, in a previous life, where he met Isabella, his soul mate, knows the location of a book which will bring della Porta a power that can change the world or topple the order. Nick is detained and Julia is desperate to save her husband and to stop della Porta in his tracks. The new life force of Paradise is a young artist, Carlo Zuccaro, who has become the new painter and warden of the damned, but Julia is unaware of this as she befriends him in an attempt to rescue her husband. All the while Nick is still entwined with his past life and his struggles continue on many fronts.

Rob Samborn is simply a master at his craft. This story enchanted me with history, magic, art, adventure and the characters were absolutely captivating. He has a talent that is equal to or even surpasses that of author Dan Brown. The literary visuals that he creates in his stories is worthy of a major screen play production, generating excitement and intrigue from the first page to the last page. If you like action packed tales of adventure with an interesting blend of history thrown in, you're going to love this one! For everything I mentioned above, this is a must read!

[C. D'Angelo · Rating 5 out of 5]

This second novel in the series continued to thrill me every step along the way. There were points my mouth dropped open and I gasped, unable to stop reading for the next part of the story. I adore the European flavor, the integration of history, and the artistic aspect coming from every page. An incredibly imaginative, page-turning tale bursting with twists and turns like the alleys and canals of its setting of Venice, The Painter of Paradise keeps you on your toes and shows how love never dies.

[Kelli · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great sequel!

A little slow in the beginning - but necessary as a recap is made of the first book and characters are reintroduced. Once the book gets going though, it does not stop for anything. Full of details from art to food, you will learn and be entertained by Samborn’s second book in his Painter trilogy. Can’t wait for the third installment!

[Paula Downey · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Painter of the Damned is book 2 of The Painted Prisoner series. It is a solid 🌟🌟🌟🌟 read.

This is a fast paced thriller set in Italy, told from multiple POVs. While the story starts out following Nick & Julia, due to certain events the focus shifts to Julia as the primary main character. Who can she trust as she strives to save her husband? This is a very interesting storyline and the setting is perfect.
An ancient order that seeks domination, powers that enable the Painter to trap souls for eternity in purgatory and individuals having past lives that can still manipulate their current existence. This book draws you in through the compelling storytelling of the author.

It ends on a cliff hanger and I will for sure be looking for the next book.
Full disclosure, I did not realize it was a series, so did find the first part of the story a bit difficult to navigate. Once I caught up, I kept turning the pages, wanting more.
I would recommend reading The Prisoner of Paradise first. I know I’ll be looking into it!

** I received an electronic copy of this book to review and participate in the book tour. Thoughts and opinions are my own. **

[Breanne Christian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nick and Julia thought they escaped Venice for good, until Nick is arrested and returned to Venice for the murder of Jacopo Comin, a man that should have been dead long-ago. As Nick and Angelo merge together even further, events become even more tragic, and Julia becomes determined to rescue her beloved with the help of Painter Carlo and a mysterious Guild. Tragedy after tragedy unfolds. What ever happened to Nick/Angelo? Is Julia able to save him? Find out in Painter of the Damned.
Full of lovable and relatable characters, readers feel right along with the emotions running rampant throughout the book. The descriptions make the reader feel as though they are right alongside the characters. I would not change a single part of this book. It does end in a cliffhanger, making me yearn for more.
If you are looking for a fast-paced book filled with mystery, romance, tragedy, action, and historical fiction look no further. Painter of the Damned is the second installment in the Painted Souls series.

[Debbie Rozier · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a multi genre book that includes mystery, history, action, and the magical.

There is a secret society (the Order), a main character (Nick/Angelo) that has lived past lives, and Nick’s quest to save his first love, Isabella, (from 1589) at the same time trying to shield his present timeline wife, Julia, from all that is happening.

The use of the past and the present and a real painting in Venice that is holding trapped souls had me both entertained and enthralled.

This is the second book in the series and I feel the author did a nice job of catching those of us that hadn’t read the first book up to speed very quickly.

This is a complex plot but is written in such a way that the whole story plays out seamlessly and makes for a page turning read.

[Tausha Treadway · Rating 5 out of 5]

Painter of the Damned (Painted Souls Book 2) by Rob Samborn. I loved this first book and this one was no different. I flew through the pages as fast as I possibly could. Its such a good thriller. Its the story of Nick and Julia O'Conner who are trying to make it back to the USA from a vacation from hell. They have been thru murders, arrests and all kinds of mayhem. They make it almost to the border when they are arrested. Julia is freed but Nick is charged with murder and sent back to Venice. Nick sends Julia to find Carlo to help her find an attorney for him but little does he know he's sent Julia right to the enemies camp. Carlo is the new painter for the new order and he may be behind all the chaos. This book has flashbacks of Nick's life and tells parts of the story. You need to really pay attention to know what's going on and also I highly recommend reading the 1st book before this one. It makes it so much more enjoyable. Pick up a copy of this book and get ready for a high speed ride you won't soon forget!

[Heidi Sturgess · Rating 5 out of 5]

Before you attempt this book please do yourself a favour and read the first book in the series . Having said that , while I didn’t read book 1 it didn’t take to much away from my reading experience 📕❣️and I did enjoy the read

Nick and Julia are on holiday in Venice but it’s not exactly fun and games , they manage to escape but their taste of freedom i a short lived when interpol can’t he’s up with them ….

Julia’s mission to try and save her husband and take down the bad guy had me on the edge of my seat , some nail biting moments !


A read that was filled with mystery , history, intrigue , romance , thrills and chills ❣️📕

[Elizabeth Stone · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book completely grabs your attention right from the first pages taking you to 1589 A.D with Angelo Mascari. Just as the first book 𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝑃𝑟𝑖𝑠𝑜𝑛𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑃𝑎𝑟𝑎𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑒 of this series, 𝑃𝑎𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝐷𝑎𝑚𝑛𝑒𝑑 has non-stop action. I absolutely love the rich history of Venice and the level of detail in this book. It will make you want to visit Italy! As someone that pictures what I read, this book series would be a great film as well, as I was able to imagine each scene perfectly! With a series that involves action, mystery, history, and an ancient order and long lost love, you don’t want to miss this read!

*All opinions are my own. Thank you to the author for the gifted copy*

[Mary Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

It did take me a little time to get into the book as Rob recapped the previous book. So definitely don't give up on it during the beginning few chapters. But once I got into it I didn't want to put it down. There was always something happening to Julia and Nick. As Carlo entered the picture he also became an important player. I must admit when I got to the end of the book, I almost cried not knowing what was going to happen to the characters. I'll be waiting for the release of the third book capturing their adventures in Venice.

[enjoyingbooksagain · Rating 4 out of 5]

My Thoughts:
We are back in Italy along with Nick and Julie who just want to leave and head home. But as they are heading to the US consulate so are the police. We Follow Nick and Julie in their journey as they try to just get home. The Painter of the Damned is the second book in this series and Rob Samborn brings us back to Venice Italy along with all its history and romance with this page turning mystery Thriller. As you read this series you will experience Venice and it’s historical history though the author’s eyes. I can’t wait to go back hopefully in book three.

[Marleen Pasch · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hang on to the seat of your Vespa as Rob Samborn takes you on a ride through the streets of Venice that you won't read about in Frommer's or Fodors. This master storyteller will forever change the way you look at Tintoretto's paintings, or the images of any souls captured on canvas.

[Crystal Brehant · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn't like this book. I loved it! The magic, the beauty, the history, the incredible writing, it was great! This book grabs you from the start and keeps you on the edge of your seat. Very hard to put down! I read this alone, not following the first in the series, but now want to check out the first. I also will be looking for more books by this author for sure!

[Nicola Ranson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ron Samborn’s “Painter of the Damned” is an exciting ride! The suspense doesn’t stop. The enthralling plot involves ancient Italian artworks that contain souls, time travel, sexy romance and non stop intrigue and action. It is the second of a trilogy and I can’t wait for the third.

[Mike · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was privileged to read an advanced copy of this second page-turner from Rob Samborn. A multi-layered thrilling plot that transcends time and space. Historical fiction on steroids. Julia's character arc is especially compelling. The multiple scenes and settings form a variegated tapestry that would make Tintoretto proud. A virtuoso thriller that picks up from Prisoner of Paradise and never lets go.

[Tara Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Painter of the Damned is Book Two in the Painted Souls Series and picks up where book one left off. Nick and Julia are determined to end their nightmare vacation and return home. They have managed to escape Venice and have almost made it to the American consulate when Interpol captures them and swiftly returns them to Venice. Nick is detained and brought forth on charges, but Julia is allowed to go free.

Determined to rescue her husband, Julia enlists the help of Carlo, the young artist that her and Nick met in Venice during their vacation. However, Julia does not know that Carlo is the order’s new painter, and he now controls those damned to spend eternity in Tintoretto’s Renaissance painting, Paradise.

After reading book one, the Prisoner of Paradise, I knew that I needed to read book two. Book one followed both Nick and Julia, but mainly focused on Nick as he was determined to free his soulmate from the Renaissance painting, Paradise. In this book there are multiple point of views, but the story mainly follows Julia as she fights to save Nick from Interpol and the charges brought forth against him. Julia is strong, smart, determined, and will do anything to save him so they can return home and leave this nightmare behind them.

There is non-stop action and suspense throughout and you can feel the sense of danger that lurks around every corner. The author does an exquisite job of describing each scene in detail so vivid that you can visualize it and feel as though you are there with the characters. A heart-pounding, edge of your seat thrill ride that you must read!

[Amy McElroy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having enjoyed Prisoner of Paradise I was thrilled to get my hands on the sequel.
Painter of the Damned demands your attention from the first page.
Nick and Julia find themselves struggling against a secret order, aiming to expose the order and the secrets held in the painting Paradise, created by the Renaissance master, Tintoretto.

We are reacquainted with some characters from Prisoner of Paradise but also introduced to some new ones, the young, chic, Fosca being my favourite. Of the original characters, della Porta increases his efforts to gain power but it becomes clear Nick and Julia are not alone in their distrust of him but how much help can their friends be against such a powerful organisation?

The way in which Carlo's character develops after becoming the painter is brilliant. He's torn between his friends and the Order but now also has the added confusion surrounding his fathers death. As the story progresses not only does Carlo's character change but through him we get to learn more about Paradise and those trapped within.

The last few chapters build tension and I was sad when I reached the end as it left me wanting more. I was so grateful for a sneak peak at the next instalment but I'm now very impatient to read it.
You don't have to have read Prisoner of Paradise but I definitely recommend it to better understand the story situation and get to know the characters.

There's also a novella The Swordsman of Venice, which sits in between the two instalments which kept me going until I got my hands on this.

If you're looking for something that is full of mystery, action, history and some humour then I highly recommend this series, you won't be disappointed. Samborn perfectly blends the past and present resulting in a wonderful, complex but enjoyable read.

I'm genuinely looking forward to what comes next! Thank you Rob Samborn for some very late nights when I kept telling myself 'just one more page'.

[Shelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Incredible sequel! Nick and his wife are still on their adventures in Venice, Italy. They would love to get home to Boston but Interpol is wrecking their plans. The adventure, drama, and intrigue are amazing. This book sucks you right back in. You can’t put it down. You have to follow to find out what’s going to happen. Nick is still trying to help free those in the Paradise painting. I love this series and hope to see more. I devour these up and hope to get my husband hooked on them.