Hi all!
Today I am going to be giving you a spoiler-free review of Marcus Hawke’s new release (publication date: January 5th 2021) of The Miracle Sin. I was lucky enough to receive a physical copy from the author himself in exchange for an honest review. It helps that we are good pals! I was also given the opportunity to interview Marcus, which will be coming soon to this blog. If you are interested in ordering a copy, please click here. Without further ado, let’s get into the post!
THE PLOT
Have you ever wondered if there’s more to life? If we are destined for something great, part of a divine plan rather than just subjects of random chaos? Mason Cole has wondered these things. And he has the answer…no. How could that be when his parents were killed in an earthquake that destroyed the city of Jerusalem, yet he alone survived? How could he be destined for great things when he’s stuck in a town-shaped rest-stop where nothing he does makes a difference? And why would God do this to him in the first place? Then one day a stranger passes through town, bringing with him a unique explanation of his past, one he never could have imagined, and wishes he could forget. It sounds like something from one of his books, only this time it’s happening to him, and it becomes clear that not every miracle is a blessing. Now, with a red-haired devil hell bent on possessing him for his own sinister gains, Mason must discover the answers to these questions if he ever hopes to survive in a world where the dark no longer hides that which dwells within.
THE CHARACTERS
One of the nice things about reading a book written by a friend, is seeing their personality shine through the pages. I really enjoyed the blend of humour and depth that I’ve come to know from Marcus in the story. It was so refreshing getting to meet a very diverse cast of characters and falling in love with them. It felt like a real team of people coming together to fight the good fight and sharing stories about their lives. Everybody had a backstory, which provided the vulnerability to root for them. I would’ve loved to learn more about Novak but I have a feeling that is coming in the future. I hope?! As the protagonist, Mason delivered a sarcastic yet emotionally-gripping narration. I’m very intrigued to watch his character develop even more than it did in this debut novel.
THE WRITING STYLE
Marcus writes in a way that makes you go ‘oof, that hit hard.’ There are so many poignant, life-reflecting moments along the way that will stay with you long after you turn the final page. It really shines a light on the resilience humans can show when faced with traumatic, soul-crushing events. I also want to note that Marcus was extremely respectful navigating the lines between faith and non-belief. The upcoming interview will shine more light on that. He made this story accessible to anybody; regardless of their religious choices. I really sensed a maturity in writing despite this being a debut novel. You can tell that a lot of thought, blood, sweat, years and tears went into the making of it. If I had to make one critique, I was expecting a bit more horror but then again, it was never officially placed under the horror category, so this is not on the author. Overall, I was hooked from start to finish and couldn’t recommend it enough!
STAR RATING
I gave this 5/5 stars. It was phenomenal! No bias!
I hope you enjoyed this honest, spoiler-free review. Feel free to order a copy for yourself from the link above.
Thank you for reading
Peace & Love xoxo
I like the way you structure your reviews. It’s super helpful. I enjoyed the subsequent interview as well (oddly, they show up in reverse order in my “weekly summary” email).
Thank you so much! I’m glad you like the format 🙂 oh that’s strange!! Haha