REVIEWS
Coffee Time Romance
"I really enjoyed this story because it has a different take on traditional theology mixed with some paranormal aspects. The mix produces an elaborate and distinctive world that gives you a different take on the plight of Lucifer, and his fall. In the beginning of the story there are a lot of characters introduced, which can be a bit bewildering, but it evens out as the story progresses. Luke and Janie’s account is wrapped up, but there is the brimming potential of more stories set in this interesting new world."
Full review here The Book Maven"This was a wonderfully unique story. I really enjoyed the different takes on modern Christian beliefs and popular paranormal ideas. I think this blend of religion and paranormal was done so well. It definitely took a unique approach to an already inundated genre. Viola’s thoroughly done story and complete characters make’s this a geniunely phenomenal read. For anyone who likes angels, vampires and a good love story you will enjoy Mark of Abel. "
Full review here Lily Element Book Review
"The book focuses on the present as well as the past. The present contains Janie's daily life. This ranges from Janie teaching her class, to strangers out to get her. The past is all about Luke (aka Lucifer) interacting with God and Eve in Eden. It brought a little bit of the story we all know and twisted it where the reader is seeing what is happening with details. The Mark of Abel is a fast read that left me craving more. I cannot wait to read more from Viola Ryan."
Full review here Bitten by Books
"I have nothing but praise for the author’s originality and her very unique writing style and theme.
I look forward to the next book, since this is the first in a series. I can promise you that if you read this, the end is literally jaw dropping." Full review here The Caffeinated Diva reads...
Things to love about The Mark of Abel…
My recommendation: I definitely recommend this book! There were bits and pieces in the beginning that kind of went over my head, but that is simply because I am not well-versed in Christian religious mythology outside of the basics. But my lack of knowledge aside, this was a really refreshing and exciting book! Full review here Novelspot Ranking: 8
"Ms. Ryan has something truly unique in The Mark of Abel she has created an original story. This is such a rare detour from the usual pack of hunky werewolves, sparkly vampires, and ambiguous creatures of the night that it needs close examination. Read The Mark of Abel with an open mind. It is an easy read with plenty of dialogue, emotions and actions. It might make you think of vampires and devils in a new way. This would be a good choice for paranormal, mythology, urban and even romance fans." Full review here Open Book Society
"I loved the plot twist at the end. I did not see that one coming!!! But I loved that it ended that way. The Mark of Abel has a very satisfying ending that ties up all the loose strings.
I recommend the book to both women and men. I think it appeals across the board. If you're okay with foul language, the book is fine for YA. There are no smutty sex scenes." Full review here Nomi's Paranormal Palace
I enjoyed the twist of the bible in this story and how the author was able to turn the stories that I learnt growing up to form her own story. In TMOA we briefly meet a lot of characters from the bible but together their stories are different to what we all know.
Full review here Library at the End of the UniverseFive Stars
Ryan tackles this intense idea and she doesn't seem to have a single struggle, other than the ones within the plot. I loved this book! The characters - intense and real, even though some are anything but reality. Plot - a fine web that is crafted by a masterful spider, and it snags the reader in. There truly is nothing about this book that I found to be an issue. I'll admit these days it is far too often that a book is not polished, and ready for the public before it is thrust into a spotlight. The Mark of Abel is a star in the literary universe!
Full review here Reviewing in Chaos10 out of 10 StarsThe Mark of Abel was a well paced book. I never felt like I was being rushed thru a scene.. Nor did I want to skim thru to a better part. Every page was good. Your concept of good and evil, Heaven and Hell will be thrown for a loop. Everything we have known all our lives about God & the Devil, way back to the garden of Eden are completely changed with a tiny twist that makes you really think. Is the Devil the evil we were all taught to believe, or is he in fact just misunderstood?
I give this one 10 golden stars and highly recommend you give it a try! In fact, I am going to go sit down and reread it right now! I simply cannot wait for the next in the series to come out! Full review here Offbeat Vagabond
The story was amazing. I loved the idea of how Lucifer is supposed to get back into Heaven. We also see why it hasn't happened yet. I love how the line between good and evil is not as black and white as you would think. There is so much happening that hinders Luke's progress...for nearly 2000 years. Every time he is on the artist tracks, she dies. That is why Luke must find Janie quickly before it is too late. I won't tell you why because it is quite the spoiler, but again, it is a brilliant idea. Ryan puts a lot of twists in this book. The story is quite unpredictable.
I recommend this for anyone wanting a new take on Paranormal Romance/Urban Fantasy. I love the mixture of religion and paranormal. The story is well written and complex. The characters leave quite the impact and are very memorable. The only complaint I have is that there are quite a bit of characters in this book. It takes a while to really get them down and trying to see who is the good or bad guy. Then again, that could be the whole point considering who the bad guys are in this book. You definitely have to read this book. You won't be sorry. Full review here Bex'n'Books
The Mark of Abel is an intriguing concept for a book and is a thoroughly enjoyable read. The author, Viola Ryan, has successfully created a story filled with humour, tension and romance. The two main protagonists are well polished and are fun to follow. Luke is an easy book throb to crush on, and Janie develops into a strong female lead, despite my doubts at the beginning of the book.
The nature of the story effectively kept me engaged. The plot was well formulated and the development, on the whole, was appropriately paced, although I felt the book picked up momentum somewhat in the second half. Full review here Just Writing MyselfViola Ryan is not shy about straying from traditional bible stories and mythology. Most notably, Luke (Lucifer) is a good guy! God, well I am up in the air on that one. He doesn’t seem all that fair at times and Luke let’s him know. Telling off God? Who hasn’t wanted to do that at least once?!You don’t have to be well-versed in the bible or a student of art history to follow this novel. The necessary info is descriptively woven in to a plot made believable through strong character development.
Full review here |
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