Master of the Abyss

by Rob Samborn

The epic conclusion to the Painted Souls series.

Impossible odds.
A relentless pursuit.
The brink of world domination.

With her husband imprisoned in eternal purgatory, Julia O’Connor and her friends must use every tool in their arsenal to stop Salvatore della Porta from completing his plan of global supremacy through Veritism—the one veritable religion—and save millions of souls from a similar fate.

Della Porta’s men doggedly track the team across Europe to Asia and back to Venice, as they seek an age-old journal that will either catapult della Porta to triumph or crush him for good. To free the souls and end the madness, they must also unearth an ancient relic that can destroy the Sun Crystal—the key to our past, present, and future.

In a final, desperate gambit, Julia and her band of renegades have one last chance to save her husband, liberate the imprisoned souls, and stop della Porta from gaining boundless power. Their every move is a race against destiny in this gripping, globe-spanning historical thriller.

Genres: Thriller

289 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 28, 2023

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

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm a little sad to see this amazing series come to an end!! I am so glad that I gave this series a chance. As previously mentioned in other reviews, I struggle with dual time line stories. This author made it so easy for me to follow the story and I almost felt like I was in the story myself at times!

It's up to Julia and a few of her close friends to save Nick from this eternal purgatory that he's found himself in. The Order is just not going to let him walk away from the deeds that he's done, or that they think he's done.

This book is just as full of action and adventure as the previous books. It's vital that these be read in order to preserve the storyline and to have it make sense. If you love historical based reads, grab this one. If you like that this is also a bit of a thriller, it will only enhance your reading experience more. I will be adding this author on my list of those to watch out for because his writing is extremely enjoyable to me!!

[Jenni · Rating 5 out of 5]

Master of the Abyss is sadly the third and final book and the end to this unique historical thriller Painted Souls series. It is a fast-paced ride and as with the other books in the series I was fully lost in the story. It is a tale that takes place between the past and present around the world but predominantly in 16th century Venice and is rich in history.

Eternal purgatory, an age-old journal, lost and tortured souls, ancient relics, global supremacy are just some of the things Julia and friends encounter in this gripping tale. They are in a race against time and in a deadly game to stop an unhinged and dangerous man who will stop at nothing.
Rob cleverly woven intricate threads of magical realism and fantasy where his vivid narrative transports the reader in time and place as you explore the beauty and wonder of Venice and the darkness, secrets and lies beneath. This clever and multilayered plot is compelling and complex with danger lurking in the shadows, suspense that is palpable, tension so thick you can cut it with a knife. There are twists and turns that you don’t know what is going to happen next.

I was so lost in the story in another time and place that my husband kept checking on me because I was so quiet and hadn’t moved for hours.

I can’t wait to see what comes next from Rob.

If you are a lover of historical thrillers, you are going to love this series.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a gripping epic conclusion to this series, and I have been kept captivated from book one. Once again, I was hooked throughout with this historical thriller, and it was a real page turner. It was nice being back with old friends, Julia and husband Nick, who in this story remains imprisoned in eternal purgatory. Therefore, it is up to Julia and her friends to stop Salvatore della Porta from achieving his plan of global supremacy through ‘Veritism’. They aim to save millions of souls from a similar fate as Nick’s. However, as Julia and her team travel across Europe heading to Asia and then finally back to Venice they are being tracked by della Porta’s men. They are seeking the age-old journal with the power to either help della Porta to succeed or stop him for good. To free the souls, including Nick’s they need to find an ancient relic that can destroy the ‘Sun Crystal’.

In a race against time Julia and her team only have one last chance to liberate the imprisoned souls, save her husband, and stop della Porta from gaining endless power. This was a real fast paced story with an action-packed storyline, and great characters who literally crossed the globe. As usual the author brought the multiple settings vividly to life, making me feel completely immersed in the story. Having read the whole series now I felt very engaged with the characters, especially Nick and Julia O’Connor. This whole series has had me on the edge of my seat, unable to put the books down. I highly recommend reading this series, but I personally think it is one which you do need to read in order.

[Linda McCutcheon · Rating 5 out of 5]

"This was supposed to be a damn vacation."

"We are not punished for our sins...but by them."

There it is..through 3 books and one novella I laughed, held my breath and cried...with this final book 3, Master Of The Abyss: The Painted Souls Series, by phenomenal author Rob Samborn I felt like I was saying goodbye to friends I cared for and one awesome bad ass of a woman, our heroine Julia.

With her husband imprisoned in eternal purgatory, Julia and her friends must stop Salvatore della Porta from completing his plan of world domination through Veritism—the one veritable religion—and save millions of souls from a similar fate.

The writer's ability to expand on his detailed world building was nothing short of brilliant creativity. Descriptive prose of Venice, most of Europe and Asia enhanced this time travel historical conspiracy paranormal suspense thriller.

It's Nick and Julia's heartbreaking love story, Angelo and Isabella's resurrection and Carlo's redemption. If you can only read one series read this one. It has everything you want to escape the world; action, romance, international intrigue, good vs evil and in the end hope. Rob Samborn you are a master writer. Thank you for the epic adventure saga of a lifetime.

Check out the rest of the Painted Souls Book Series :
The Prisoner Of Paradise: Painted Souls, Book 1
Painter Of The Damned: Painted Souls, Book 2
The Swordsman Of Venice, A Painted Souls Novella

Buy Link: https://a.co/d/a1E9j89
*Books are for mature audience

I received a free copy of this book from #bookandwinelovers for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

[Ingrid Gail · Rating 5 out of 5]

The third book in the Painted Souls trilogy.

There was some time between reading the second book and this one, but again it gripped me from page 1, as did the other books!


Alternating between present day and past, filled with suspense, betrayal, loyalty, mystery and love, with excitement and connections spanning the centuries, this book is a rollercoaster that takes you along its twists and turns and leaves you gasping for air.

In this book, there are some quips and little inside jokes that really work with the story without trying to make it a funny book or take away from the gripping story.

I was again mesmerized with the developments and the palpable tension, I didn't want to put the book down! The only downside to this book is that it is the last in the series.

The conclusion of the book was filled to the brim with action, adventure and an ending that didn't let down!

Rob Samborn is a true master of the written word and I hope there may be many more books like these three to dive in to!

[Tori · Rating 5 out of 5]

Carlo has been having vivid dreams and flashes of Tintoretto. The Order expected Carlo to be part of the group but he was not. Carlo thought he was made to be this master painter, where in fact he was not.
Carlo wants to release the souls trapped in the paintings in Venice, and also abolish the order but that means he has to show his face where is banned from and they will hunt him down if he were to step foot in Venice. Julia’s husband is trapped in a purgatory in Venice. Can she team with Carlo to save her beloved husband. This story was absolutely amazing. Twists and turns from every corner. A must read series.

[Kerry Baker]

What a fantastic conclusion to this series. After reading the previous two books, I could not wait to get my hands on this one. As soon as it hit my kindle I just had to find out his things would end.
This book is easy my favourite of them all. It was exciting to read and had so much going on. It felt like i went on the journey with the characters. I loved watching hing them all drvelop over the course of the series and was desperate to know what the author had in store for them all. This is a fantastic book and a brilliant series.

[Finn Cunningham · Rating 5 out of 5]

Master of the Abyss is Rob Samborn's incredible conclusion to the Painted Souls Series. Where do I start, considering this series has it all? From book one I have been thoroughly hooked on this sags, filling all of my spare time with this mind-boggling thriller. Rob never misses a single beat, with beautiful imagery, drama, and mystery. I had a terrible time pulling myself away from this series, continuously coming back for more. I just had to know! I loved this from book one, page one, and i recommend it to anyone who enjoy action thrillers full to the brim with raw talent.

[enjoyingbooksagain · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thoughts:
I have to say I am sad to see this series end. I was lucky enough to be able to read this whole series which included The Prisoner of Paradise, Painter of the Damed and the last in the series Master of The Abyss.
Each of these books brings you on adventures that is although exciting the stakes are high and keeps you on the edge of your seat. I also loved traveling throughout Europe,Asia and my favorite Venice in this race against global domination.

[James Kurzdorfer · Rating 5 out of 5]

The final book the Painted Souls Series is a well written and thought culmination to an epic story. Like the first two books, the author spares no expense in gripping the reader and taking you along for a thrill ride that you will not be able to willingly step away from! I have recommended the series many times over and look forward to more of Rob Samborn's work in the future. Well done!

[Angela Shirley · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the final chapter in the gripping story of a good old fashioned baddie and the race against time to help the souls in purgatory including Julia’s husband Nick.

As the time races from Italy to Asia, Europe and back to Venice will they be able to find the ancient relic which will destroy Salvatore’s plans and recuse Nick and reunite him with Julia. You will have to see?

This as the other books is a fasted paced thrilling story which has you travelling all over the global discovering old legends to stop Salvatore in his quest. Julia’s character is fully of courage and determination to help Nick but with her friends she has met these characters enhance the story and have you reading at a fast pace to see what happens next.

This book is a great conclusion to this epic series and I can’t wait to read more by this author.

[SaviLeeLind · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a great read! Suspense, action, and a complete thrill of truly not knowing what to expect. Julia was quite a force and the support of her friends fueled her strength. This story had so many amazing and unforgettable elements. It’s a great conclusion to this series!!

[Monique Corbeil · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can wait to read the next thriller from Samborn; this one was as good as all the previous book from the Panted Souls' series.

[Colleen Cortright · Rating 5 out of 5]

A page Turner!

I really enjoyed the excitement of this story. I did hope for a different ending, but either way it was worth the time to read.

[Michelle Doutrich · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great book by Rob Samborn and fantastic end to the trilogy. The further I got into the book, the more I couldn't put it down. very suspenseful!

[Dawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Master of Abyss" is a captivating, brilliant, and addictive historical thriller. The author took me on an extraordinary journey and fell in love with a new genre. I will never be able to write a review that incorporates everything that his books contain, except it is completely satisfying. I'm very sadden that this is the conclusion of a brilliant trilogy.
The author is a master and gifted at storytelling filled with adventure, suspense, vivid descriptive details, and beautiful locations and historical knowledge, to name a few. I was immersed into an amazing journey to different time periods that were so accurate as if I were there in real time and experienced the complex characters that add depth to the story. The author story is memorable forever because of the historical research
I hope it will be adapted to film because it had adventure, mystery, historical research, meticulous d vivid descriptions, and exotic locations.

[Ty Keenum · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rob Samborn's "Master of the Abyss" marks the thrilling and satisfying conclusion to his "Painted Souls" series, bringing to an end the captivating adventure of Nick and Julia that was first introduced to readers in "The Painter of Paradise." With his exceptional storytelling and encyclopedic knowledge of historical periods and locations, Samborn once again proves himself a masterful author, weaving a tale that is both fantastical and grounded in reality.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Samborn's writing is his ability to transport readers to different times and places with remarkable authenticity. In "Master of the Abyss," he delves deep into the history of a religious cult, taking us on a journey through centuries of subterfuge and intrigue. The intricately woven plot revolves around the cult's quest for dominance, and Samborn's meticulous research and vivid descriptions breathe life into the story, making the reader feel like a firsthand witness to the unfolding events.
Samborn's characters, particularly Nick and Julia, have been developed over the course of the series into multifaceted individuals with whom readers can easily connect. Their growth and evolution throughout the series culminate in "Master of the Abyss," where they face their most challenging trials yet. Samborn's ability to create relatable and complex characters adds depth and emotional resonance to the story.
What truly sets "Master of the Abyss" apart is the authenticity of the settings and the rich detail with which Samborn portrays them. As a world traveler with expert knowledge of the locales and their inhabitants, Samborn effortlessly immerses readers in the vivid landscapes and cultures of the places his characters visit. From Venice to far-flung exotic locations, the reader is treated to a sensory feast of sights, sounds, and tastes that enhance the storytelling experience.
As the final installment in the "Painted Souls" series, "Master of the Abyss" delivers a fitting and thrilling conclusion that ties up loose ends and provides answers to long-standing mysteries. It offers a satisfying resolution to the overarching narrative while leaving room for reflection and contemplation.
In conclusion, Rob Samborn's "Master of the Abyss" is a literary triumph that combines fantastical elements with historical depth and meticulous research. It's a series that not only entertains but also educates, and it begs to be adapted for the big screen. For fans of adventure, mystery, and richly detailed storytelling, this book is a must-read, and the "Painted Souls" series as a whole is a journey well worth taking.

[Bruce Leonard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Winner!

Rob Samborn has once again crafted a thrilling page turner filled with memorable characters, unpredictable plot twists, and first-rate pacing.
Bravo!

[Angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Stars

Master of the Abyss is the third and final book in the Painted Souls Series by Rob Samborn. It follows up from The Prisoner of Paradise (Book #1) and Painter of the Damned (Book #2)- so if you are yet to read the first two books, then I highly recommend that you do so before diving into this final instalment. This is a continuation of the story and there has been a lot that has happened previously that you will want to know going into this book. There is a lot of important storyline details, character information, interconnected elements/threads, and intriguing backstory that you need to know in order to get the ultimate reading experience from this book.
Julia O’Connor (and friends) has her work cut out for her here- as she is thrust into a quest to not only to save her husband and the multitude of souls trapped in eternal torment, but turns out that she’ll need to save the world from a psychotic religious fanatic bent on utter domination, as well. What happens makes for a page-turning read.
Although I didn’t want this series to end, because it has been such a great read- this conclusion to the series is everything I could have hoped for, and more. Mr. Samborn didn’t rest on his laurels, and yet again, upped the ante to bring us another well-written, multi-layered, gripping, and incredibly ‘visual’ story. With plenty of dramatic developments, tension, action, danger, supernatural/paranormal elements, a high stakes quest, an ancient relic, suspense, twists, intensity, adventure, intrigue, historical details, agendas, complexity, layers, mysteriousness, an ancient journal, and so much more – made for a very gripping historical thriller.
This was edge of your seat reading at its best- OMG I devoured this book in one sitting as I had to know how everything played out in the end. And as expected from Mr. Samborn- the tension mounts to an all-time high- making for a quite a riveting read.
The Painted Souls series would definitely make a fantastic movie, or epic television series!
I am eager to see what Mr. Sanborn has up his sleeve for us next.
Happy Reading…

Thank you, Rob Samborn!

[Melanie | addictedtobooks86 · Rating 5 out of 5]

𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬:
I have loved every minute of the Painted Souls series, and I will admit…I am a bit sad to have it all come to an end in this third and incredible book. I really enjoyed all of the books in this series, and am so glad that I got the opportunity to read and review all of the books. This series is definitely unique, fun, and full of adventure and action. I adore all of the characters throughout this series, and am really going to miss them 🥺 The story weaves from past to present and is rich in history with a bit of thriller sprinkled throughout. Rob’s writing is definitely strong, powerful, and descriptive, as at times throughout reading this series he easily swept me away to 16th century Venice. Rob does an incredible job with character development, and weaving together the history and thriller aspects throughout these books. Rob has a talent for developing a cleaver, unique, and engaging plot that sucks the reader into the world of his books. This book has plenty of twists and turns to leave you on the edge of your seat, and it is one of those books that you easily get sucked into and lose track of time while reading. I highly recommend reading this series!

𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗜𝗳 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗘𝗻𝗷𝗼𝘆:
✦Uniquely written books with a great storyline
✦Amazing characters
✦Alternating timelines
✦Historical thriller mixed with action and adventure



𝐌𝐲 𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫4.5/5

[Dawn Daughenbaugh · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Stars
Master of the Abyss (Painted Souls Series Book 3) by Rob Samborn

Master of the Abyss is the third book and final book in the Painted Souls Series. This is wonderfully written Historical Thriller that will have you turning the pages till the end. I would highly suggest reading this series in order as each book plays off the last and you get a better understanding of what has been going on and you get to know the characters better and the back story. I literally read the second book and realized I missed the first one so it was read afterwards and I’m glad I did. This is a on the edge of your seat thriller that is packed with drama, suspense, action, mystery, a ancient journal, adventure and so much more. Get ready for quite the epic adventure as Julia O’Connor and friends set have there work cut out for them as they race save not only her husband but all the others that are trapped in enteral torment. I literally read this in one sitting because I couldn’t put it down. I had to know how everything was going to pan out. I highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next. Buckle up cause you are in for quite the ride. I can’t wait to see what this author brings us next.

[Kerry carr · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the 3rd and finally book in the Painted Souls Series. I do recommend reading them from the start so you get the complete story and you won't be disappointed. Reading them from the beginning also helps you to understand the switch between times from the past to present day. I can imagine without knowing the reason for it, it would make the books confusing.
These books are historical thrillers. They are books you can't help but get lost in. Their is romance, danger, evil, past and present and countless souls needing to be saved from purgatory.

With Julia's husband Nick's soul trapped in purgatory it is a race against time for her and her friends. They need to stop Salvatore della Porta from taking over the world by Veritism—the one religion and they need to save Nick's soul as well as the souls of other people who have been trapped and condemned to purgatory. Will Julia and her friends be able to find the ancient relic needed to save everyone and stop Salvatore or will they run out of time?

This author has weaved a fantasy tale in this series. One that has you gripped and on the edge of your seat. I am sad that this is the last book but I thoroughly enjoyed it and will definately read it again.

[Tausha Treadway · Rating 5 out of 5]

Master of the Abyss (Painted Souls Series Book 3) by Rob Samborn. This is the final book in the Painted Souls series and wow its packed full of goodies. I do believe you will better enjoy it if you read the previous books. Its the continuation of Julia trying to get her husband out of purgatory along with others. Julia and her friends are trying with everything they have to stop Salvatore della Porta from reigning supreme over all. They are tracking a very old journal across Europe, to Asia then back again to Venice and all the while they have Salvatore's men on their tale. Their end goal is find the relic that will destroy the "sun crystal". Not only Nick needs to be freed but thousands of others are captured. With time against them, Juila and her team will try everything in their power to destroy Salvatore before he takes over and destroys them all. This is a fast paced, sit down and buckle up, historical thriller. I loved every minute of it and hate for it to end!

[Kathy Maresca · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've been waiting to read this since the first installment of the Painted Souls trilogy, and it was more than worth the wait. As an author, I marvel at the imagination of Rob Samborn, his attention to detail, and his ability to captivate a reader.

Full of action, love, and history, Master of the Abyss is the perfect blend of plot and characterization. I'll miss these characters, but a companion novel exists. I can't wait to get my hands on it.

After reading this book, you'll swear you have been to Italy, even if like me, you've not been near it. We get a beautiful glimpse of this world through the character's experiences, and I must say it is phenomenal.

For Christian fiction readers, this novel contains quite a bit of profanity. Mr. Samborn, at the beginning of the novel, lets everyone know that. Don't I wish all authors were this sensitive to their potential readers? Yes, I do.

Daring. Risky. Exquisite.

[Tara Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Master of the Abyss is the third and final book to the Painted Souls Series. It is a spine-tingling, high stakes, twisted, historical thriller. If you have not yet read the first two books in the series, I highly recommend that you do, or you may feel lost. The first two novels give backstory and important details that are imperative to getting the full experience of this amazing series. In the gripping finale to the series, Julia must try to save her husband from eternal purgatory. In her quest to save him she finds herself trying to save the world from a religious fanatic. The author weaves an intricate, multi layered story full of rich historical details. This book was riveting from the first few pages and full of action, suspense, drama, mystery, intrigue, and twists and turns. I highly recommend this book, and this series!

[Sheri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Master of the Abyss: The Epic Conclusion to the Painted Souls Series is the third and final book of this action-packed series. Julia is trying to save her husband and others from purgatory while stopping Salvatore della Porta from reigning over the globe with his cult of followers. There are the dual timelines that started in the first two books of the series. I enjoy how the author delves into the rich past of 16th-century Venice while balancing it with the contemporary timeline. This is definitely a series you need to start at the beginning but trust me; it is worth reading the entire series. The story, characters, and action keep you reading and not wanting to put down the book. Though this was the last book in this series, I will keep an eye out for more by this author.

[Bobbi Wagner · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a series that I have enjoyed reading from the first book. It is a fast paced, hard to put down story and the last book of the series. This is a series that I highly suggest reading from first book to last. It will help you understand where the characters have been and where they are going. I look forward to seeing what is next for this author. This is a well written story that is engaging and hard to put down. Julia and her group have one last chance to free her husband. What happens is something you don’t want to miss. I enjoyed watching the growth of the plot throughout the story. The characters are relatable and add so much to the story. I really enjoyed them and what they brought to the story. I highly recommend this book.

[Cathy Patrenos · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have so enjoyed the Painted Souls Series by Rob Samborn—this kick-ass conclusion grabbed me from the start and kept me on edge until the very end. I can truly say this was my favorite of the three and I am sad to have reached the end of the series. I felt a connection to the characters who were portrayed in a convincingly real manner, captivating me all the way through the book. Samborn is a skilled storyteller and an amazing writer who has a talent for flawlessly immersing the reader into his remarkable tales, while navigating us through different historical places and periods. Master of the Abyss is a fast-paced, full of action thriller with a spectacular conclusion. I highly recommend this series and can’t wait to see what Samborn has in store for us in the future.

[Shannen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This has been one of my absolute favorite series! I cannot say enough good things about it. This is not one you should read as a standalone because they only make sense in order with all background provided. They build off each other quite a bit. This book (and series) is captivating, thrilling, and you won’t be able to put it down so clear your day! The flow of the story feels natural, and the characters are very well-developed. The author makes it impossible to NOT be fully invested within minutes. Can Julia save her husband or is his fate sealed? Do yourself the biggest favor and pick up this series, you won’t regret it!

[M Schultz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was on the edge of my Kindle for nearly the entire story!
The author's writing is superb! He paints such a wonderful picture in my mind with location details in the right amount. That is an important balance to find difficult to maintain because too little detail and the reader is left in the dark, too much detail can muddy the story or plot.
I am babbling because I don't give spoilers but this time it's so hard because I want to exult about the ending! I loved it.
You will have to read it for yourself. Do yourself a favor and start with the first book, you can thank me later.
I give this story 4.8 stars.