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MARIEL: THE BEGINNING
The end of the world doesn’t announce itself with fire.
It starts with a journal.
A microchip.
And a boy who was never meant to survive.
Chicago, 2019. A priest wakes from a coma with visions he can’t explain. A woman trained to kill questions the mission that’s defined her life. A young bookstore clerk is unknowingly implanted with a chip that could change the future.
Spanning decades and continents, Mariel weaves the lives of a priest, an assassin, and a young woman caught in the crossfire of a secret war. From a Russian enhancement program to American political power plays, from prophetic dreams to weaponized children, their paths collide under the weight of something much older—and far more dangerous—than they understand.
It starts with a journal.
A microchip.
And a boy who was never meant to survive.
Chicago, 2019. A priest wakes from a coma with visions he can’t explain. A woman trained to kill questions the mission that’s defined her life. A young bookstore clerk is unknowingly implanted with a chip that could change the future.
Spanning decades and continents, Mariel weaves the lives of a priest, an assassin, and a young woman caught in the crossfire of a secret war. From a Russian enhancement program to American political power plays, from prophetic dreams to weaponized children, their paths collide under the weight of something much older—and far more dangerous—than they understand.
663 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 1, 2025
22 people are currently reading
4941 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
September 1, 2025
I want to thank the author for providing me an ARC of his book, Mariel: The Beginning. It’s a thick novel but it flows well and before you know it, you don’t even realize that you are whipping through this book. The characters are excellent, the plot is captivating and the author keeps you hooked for book 2.
You have the Catholic Church , Russians, religious fanatics and children who have been groomed to kill and carry out diabolical deeds. Just about everyone is morally gray. I like Mariel, except he changes drastically in the book, and not for the better, let’s see how that turns out... I even like Gabe, but this Phil guy needs to get smacked. He is a religious “Karen”. Father Jerome is a little weak, he needs a bigger backbone, and Esther needs to figure out what she really wants. I’m totally into these characters. Oh, and will the real Tira please stand up?!
This is such a good book y’all. But check trigger warnings. Some of the spice in this book is steamy and other parts it’s a little brutal. There is a lot of repenting that needs to happen by a few of these people. This is an apocalyptic, psychological thriller at its finest.
I 100% recommend this debut novel. You are in for a wild ride.
You have the Catholic Church , Russians, religious fanatics and children who have been groomed to kill and carry out diabolical deeds. Just about everyone is morally gray. I like Mariel, except he changes drastically in the book, and not for the better, let’s see how that turns out... I even like Gabe, but this Phil guy needs to get smacked. He is a religious “Karen”. Father Jerome is a little weak, he needs a bigger backbone, and Esther needs to figure out what she really wants. I’m totally into these characters. Oh, and will the real Tira please stand up?!
This is such a good book y’all. But check trigger warnings. Some of the spice in this book is steamy and other parts it’s a little brutal. There is a lot of repenting that needs to happen by a few of these people. This is an apocalyptic, psychological thriller at its finest.
I 100% recommend this debut novel. You are in for a wild ride.
June 19, 2025
I had the privilege of reading an advanced copy of this incredible story, Mariel The Beginning, and I can confidently say it’s one of those rare reads that stays with you long after you turn the last page. From the opening pages, AJ demonstrates what true storytelling looks like—His writing is nothing short of a literary masterpiece!
This book seeps into your soul. I haven’t been able to stop thinking about it since I finished. It’s easy to read, but don’t let that fool you—it’s layered, emotional, intense, and utterly unforgettable. The writing is so vivid it plays out like a movie in your mind. Every gasp, every twist (and trust me, there are many) pulled me in deeper.
The characters are brilliantly interwoven, each bringing something powerful to the story. Fr. Paul is terrifying in the best way—his darkness sneaks up on you. Fr. Jerome? Total heart-stealer. And Phil… he’ll be the most hated character on screen someday. He’s twisted and layered like Littlefinger—just without the charm 😂
Tira had me in awe. Elegant, deadly, yet deeply empathetic—especially with animals, which spoke volumes about her soul. Her conflict over Esther was so raw and beautifully written. And speaking of Esther… that girl made me feel everything. One minute I wanted to hug her, the next I wanted to scream at her. But she grows into her own kind of badass, and I’m obsessed with how quietly powerful she becomes.
Mariel is pure perfection—his early scenes had me in love, and his post-resurrection darkness? Scary, sexy, and tragic all at once. That internal war he carries just made me root for him harder. And Ahdam brings this supernatural spark that’s intense and exciting—I can’t wait to see how his power evolves.
This book is filled with “WHAT JUST HAPPENED?!” moments—I lost track of how many times I gasped out loud. It’s cinematic, character-driven, and emotional in all the best ways. What makes this book so exceptional is the emotional investment it demands from the reader. This isn’t a surface-level thriller or fantasy. It’s a gripping, multi-faceted journey that pulls you into the hearts and minds of its characters so completely that they stop feeling like characters—they become real. These aren’t just characters in a story—they’re people. You worry for them, ache with them, question their motives, and hope against hope for redemption, even when you’re not sure it’s deserved.
This is the kind of novel that reminds you why you love to read. I’m already anticipating the next installment—and I can’t wait to see where this incredible story leads.
This book seeps into your soul. I haven’t been able to stop thinking about it since I finished. It’s easy to read, but don’t let that fool you—it’s layered, emotional, intense, and utterly unforgettable. The writing is so vivid it plays out like a movie in your mind. Every gasp, every twist (and trust me, there are many) pulled me in deeper.
The characters are brilliantly interwoven, each bringing something powerful to the story. Fr. Paul is terrifying in the best way—his darkness sneaks up on you. Fr. Jerome? Total heart-stealer. And Phil… he’ll be the most hated character on screen someday. He’s twisted and layered like Littlefinger—just without the charm 😂
Tira had me in awe. Elegant, deadly, yet deeply empathetic—especially with animals, which spoke volumes about her soul. Her conflict over Esther was so raw and beautifully written. And speaking of Esther… that girl made me feel everything. One minute I wanted to hug her, the next I wanted to scream at her. But she grows into her own kind of badass, and I’m obsessed with how quietly powerful she becomes.
Mariel is pure perfection—his early scenes had me in love, and his post-resurrection darkness? Scary, sexy, and tragic all at once. That internal war he carries just made me root for him harder. And Ahdam brings this supernatural spark that’s intense and exciting—I can’t wait to see how his power evolves.
This book is filled with “WHAT JUST HAPPENED?!” moments—I lost track of how many times I gasped out loud. It’s cinematic, character-driven, and emotional in all the best ways. What makes this book so exceptional is the emotional investment it demands from the reader. This isn’t a surface-level thriller or fantasy. It’s a gripping, multi-faceted journey that pulls you into the hearts and minds of its characters so completely that they stop feeling like characters—they become real. These aren’t just characters in a story—they’re people. You worry for them, ache with them, question their motives, and hope against hope for redemption, even when you’re not sure it’s deserved.
This is the kind of novel that reminds you why you love to read. I’m already anticipating the next installment—and I can’t wait to see where this incredible story leads.
June 20, 2025
Honestly loved this book. The characters felt so real, I could feel their pain and trauma through the pages. It was dark in a way that didn’t feel overdone, just raw and honest. I got so attached to them, and some parts honestly made me hurt FOR them.
The different POVs were done so well, each one added something new, it didn’t feel clouded or boring because each POV added necessary info and feel to the plot (even if some of the characters had slightly questionable morals and being in their head made me want to crawl through to page and hurt people lol).
The story kept building in such an interesting way so I was never bored, and everything felt so connected. It literally had me jumping from the middle of the book back to PAGE ONE (not even kidding) and being like “wait.. is that.. oh my gosh??”
There’s still a lot I don’t know yet, but definitely in a good way, it left me pondering and going back to the pages after I read it trying to put more pieces together. Safe to say I’m ready for the next book and excited for my questions to be answered.
I’d say if you’re into emotional, interconnected stories with some heavy themes and mystery, you need to read this asap.
The different POVs were done so well, each one added something new, it didn’t feel clouded or boring because each POV added necessary info and feel to the plot (even if some of the characters had slightly questionable morals and being in their head made me want to crawl through to page and hurt people lol).
The story kept building in such an interesting way so I was never bored, and everything felt so connected. It literally had me jumping from the middle of the book back to PAGE ONE (not even kidding) and being like “wait.. is that.. oh my gosh??”
There’s still a lot I don’t know yet, but definitely in a good way, it left me pondering and going back to the pages after I read it trying to put more pieces together. Safe to say I’m ready for the next book and excited for my questions to be answered.
I’d say if you’re into emotional, interconnected stories with some heavy themes and mystery, you need to read this asap.
June 19, 2025
This book was HUGE and masterfully written! The depth and diversity of characters, was awe inspiring. This wouldn't be what I would consider my normal go to genre of book, this is definitely multi-genre there is something in this book for everyone! I was so mad at the ending I threw my book, that is the first time I had done that in years! I have guesses for some of book 2 and I need it ASAP to prove my theories! This is a 5 star amazing read, get yourself a copy it's so worth it!
August 1, 2025
I had the privilege of reading an advance copy of Mariel: The Beginning. This isn't a book I likely would have picked up on my own, based on the synopsis, as it's not my typical genre, but I found myself really drawn into the story and eager to know what was going to happen next (I had more than one "what the f**k?! moment.). The characters are complex - not all clearly drawn "good guys" and "bad guys" but, like real people, the characters are more nuanced than that. The story is dark - it doesn't shy away from difficult issues, and warrants some trigger warnings (like religious extremism, abuse, SA, etc.). Definitely not an easy read, but if you're interested in full, complex, epic storytelling, then Mariel: The Beginning is a worthy read.
This book is the first in an incomplete series (I say that because I'm a person who appreciates that kind of information when choosing a book to read.).
This book is the first in an incomplete series (I say that because I'm a person who appreciates that kind of information when choosing a book to read.).
March 13, 2026
As soon as I finished this one, I thought "I want to read this again knowing now what I do about each character".
Never have I ever read a book so intricately written and loved every moment of it!! Despite a higher number of characters, connections, events, and timelines A.J. writes in a way that is so easy to follow. Never missing a detail to keep you right on point to the storyline. You'll be drawn into each and every character for sure. Cancel your plans, ignore your chores, call in sick to work - this book will suck you in and make you forget all responsibilities. Cannot wait for the next installments. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
A.J. Frazier came out running with this debut. This is how it's done!!
Never have I ever read a book so intricately written and loved every moment of it!! Despite a higher number of characters, connections, events, and timelines A.J. writes in a way that is so easy to follow. Never missing a detail to keep you right on point to the storyline. You'll be drawn into each and every character for sure. Cancel your plans, ignore your chores, call in sick to work - this book will suck you in and make you forget all responsibilities. Cannot wait for the next installments. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
A.J. Frazier came out running with this debut. This is how it's done!!
July 12, 2025
I absolutely inhaled this book! It it was captivating from the start with all the twists and turns, i love all the flashbacks and multiple POVs, the sexual tension and slow burn is there without taking away from the plot while still being spicy. I honestly cannot wait to read the next book to see what happens!
August 2, 2025
This book was incredibly captivating. It took me on a whirlwind of emotions. I had so many theories throughout the story, which kept me thoroughly entertained. Some of those theories were answered, but there are still many questions left unresolved.
The ending was the most frustrating part—not because it was bad, but because it left me questioning the characters' decisions and unsure how to feel about the new direction their lives were taking. I felt a strong connection with characters like Tira and Fr. Jerome. On the other hand, characters like Esther and Phil had me fighting the urge to scream at them throughout the book. That said, by the end, I did feel sympathy for Esther, and I believe she’ll grow on me in the future.
It was such a wonderful read, constantly keeping me on the edge of my seat. The shifting perspectives in each section gave me the opportunity to form theories and questions, which were often addressed later on. I also really enjoyed how the author brought a full-circle effect to each character’s story, so you’re not left wondering about certain plot points or character arcs. The author does an excellent job of making you question morality and whether your emotional responses are truly justified.
I’m not a big reader, and the book’s length initially discouraged me. However, this ended up being the quickest book I’ve ever read because I simply couldn’t put it down.
The ending was the most frustrating part—not because it was bad, but because it left me questioning the characters' decisions and unsure how to feel about the new direction their lives were taking. I felt a strong connection with characters like Tira and Fr. Jerome. On the other hand, characters like Esther and Phil had me fighting the urge to scream at them throughout the book. That said, by the end, I did feel sympathy for Esther, and I believe she’ll grow on me in the future.
It was such a wonderful read, constantly keeping me on the edge of my seat. The shifting perspectives in each section gave me the opportunity to form theories and questions, which were often addressed later on. I also really enjoyed how the author brought a full-circle effect to each character’s story, so you’re not left wondering about certain plot points or character arcs. The author does an excellent job of making you question morality and whether your emotional responses are truly justified.
I’m not a big reader, and the book’s length initially discouraged me. However, this ended up being the quickest book I’ve ever read because I simply couldn’t put it down.
August 22, 2025
Wow—this book completely blew me away. Mariel: The Beginning is unlike anything I’ve read before. It’s part spiritual horror, part queer romance, part political thriller, and somehow it all comes together into a story that feels raw, powerful, and impossible to put down.
What really hooked me were the characters. They’re messy, flawed, and deeply human—exactly the kind of people you root for even when they’re making questionable choices.
You can feel the author’s own heart and history woven into the story, which gives it an honesty you don’t always find in fiction.
I have to say Father Jerome is my favorite character because he is so complicated! In many ways, he sets the tone for the novel’s mix of horror and hope. He embodies the book’s moral grayness and makes you wrestle with the uncomfortable idea that faith, survival, and morality don’t always align neatly.
Bottom line: Mariel: The Beginning is dark, emotional, and full of heart. If you’re looking for something completely different that will make you feel, think, and maybe even question your own faith in people, pick this one up.
What really hooked me were the characters. They’re messy, flawed, and deeply human—exactly the kind of people you root for even when they’re making questionable choices.
You can feel the author’s own heart and history woven into the story, which gives it an honesty you don’t always find in fiction.
I have to say Father Jerome is my favorite character because he is so complicated! In many ways, he sets the tone for the novel’s mix of horror and hope. He embodies the book’s moral grayness and makes you wrestle with the uncomfortable idea that faith, survival, and morality don’t always align neatly.
Bottom line: Mariel: The Beginning is dark, emotional, and full of heart. If you’re looking for something completely different that will make you feel, think, and maybe even question your own faith in people, pick this one up.
June 20, 2025
Mariel is a bible-sized (literally) apocalyptic thriller that I have a hard time putting down! It’s intense, emotional, and full of characters you’ll either fall in love with or absolutely hate (looking at you Phil!) and that’s what makes it so good! The story is a wild ride from start to finish, and every chapter hits hard while adding to the overall lore. I never felt a dull moment. It really is incredibly packed full of content! If you’re looking for something bold, dark, and unforgettable, read this book! Also, end of the world lesbian romance is just freaking amazing!
I’d also like to add, this story is a representation of so many different types of people, cultures, and backgrounds. Everything these diverse set of characters goes through feels so relatable because of how grounded the story is. I can tell how much time and effort went into cultivating this universe, while strategically tying it to current events. I am so impressed with all of it, and cannot wait to read more!!
I’d also like to add, this story is a representation of so many different types of people, cultures, and backgrounds. Everything these diverse set of characters goes through feels so relatable because of how grounded the story is. I can tell how much time and effort went into cultivating this universe, while strategically tying it to current events. I am so impressed with all of it, and cannot wait to read more!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 12, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The characters were incredibly well-developed, allowing me to deeply empathize with their pain and trauma. The narrative had a dark quality that felt authentic rather than excessive, striking a balance between rawness and honesty. I became emotionally invested in their journeys, with certain moments evoking a visceral reaction on their behalf. The multiple perspectives were skillfully executed, each contributing unique insights that enriched the plot without becoming tedious, even when some characters exhibited morally ambiguous traits that made me want to intervene. The story unfolded in a captivating manner, keeping me engaged throughout, and I found myself revisiting earlier pages to connect the dots as new revelations emerged. While there are still many unanswered questions, this ambiguity is intriguing and has left me eager for the next installment. If you appreciate emotionally charged narratives with intricate connections and elements of mystery, I highly recommend diving into this book as soon as possible.
September 1, 2025
This is an incredibly interesting book. When I received my copy, I thought holy cow, this book is THICC. Easily 600-700 pages long. And it was, it took me a long time to read. But let me just say all that time was worth it?! I became intensely attached to nearly every character, loved the struggles and pain they were put through (I’m sorry that’s just who I am), and enjoyed the storyline as a whole!
One of my favorite parts of this book was how starkly hypocrisy was portrayed. I ate it up like a starving man. And the struggle to be kind and good in the face of that is also so well written, I felt it in my bones. Also loved the journal entries, felt like it connected me deeply to that character.
And also the whole other plot line with the government agency?!?! Unexpected and incredibly brutal, these were my favorite parts of the book!! I felt like I was watching an incredible movie at times.
I cried, laughed, got enraged, and thoroughly enjoyed my time in this world. All in all, it’s a big book, but definitely worth the time!
One of my favorite parts of this book was how starkly hypocrisy was portrayed. I ate it up like a starving man. And the struggle to be kind and good in the face of that is also so well written, I felt it in my bones. Also loved the journal entries, felt like it connected me deeply to that character.
And also the whole other plot line with the government agency?!?! Unexpected and incredibly brutal, these were my favorite parts of the book!! I felt like I was watching an incredible movie at times.
I cried, laughed, got enraged, and thoroughly enjoyed my time in this world. All in all, it’s a big book, but definitely worth the time!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 15, 2025
A book like this does not come around often. It takes reading an absolute work of art like this to realize just how stagnant my TBR has been. At 650+ pages this book took me through twists, around turns, upside down and inside out. Every single word is one of substance and MATTERS. There are no background characters. Everything and everyone has a purpose. I’d like to say I’m rarely surprised and catch on to what’s going on pretty easily. That was absolutely not the case here. I saw none of it coming. Not a single time. There were several times I had to FORCE myself to put this book down and walk away because I wanted nothing else than to continue to follow these characters. If this is the first work by this author and I can only imagine what we have yet to see. I don’t know what I am possibly going to fill the void with while I wait to see the next steps for Mariel…Maybe I’ll go buy a coat. I know a girl who definitely needs one.
Or a hamster 🐹
Or a hamster 🐹
June 21, 2025
I had the honor of reading this book as an ARC. I sat on this review for a while. Words honestly don’t do this book justice. I’m going to be honest; this isn’t usually the type of book that I gravitate towards. But, that being said, that’s what makes this review great. From the very beginning this book held my attention. It had me captivated from the first few sentences and wanting to know more. To know what happens next. It’s raw and relatable. Even the side characters you wouldn’t expect to have much pull are so deeply relatable. This is a book that will have you kicking your feet one minute and gasping the next. I love how there are so many genres and tropes mixed into one story. You can tell the author poured their heart and soul into this book. It leaves you hungry and wanting more and I’m excited to read the rest of Mariel’s journey.
August 26, 2025
Holy crap this book takes you for a ride! Wow!! This book has all the tropes, it’s got friends to lovers, enemies to lovers, found family, touch her and 💀, single dad, death, burial and resurrection, paranormal aspects. I cld go on and on.
I was so engrossed in this book, kept me on my toes, the twists and turns and the WTF moments were literally all through this book. I found myself going back to certain parts to make sure I had read it right.
It will rip your heart out in some parts, put it back together, just to do it all over again. It’s an amazing psychological thriller and it will keep you turning the pages to find out what happens next.
I definitely recommend but please check your triggers!! It leaves us on a cliffhanger and I cannot wait for book 2!!
I was so engrossed in this book, kept me on my toes, the twists and turns and the WTF moments were literally all through this book. I found myself going back to certain parts to make sure I had read it right.
It will rip your heart out in some parts, put it back together, just to do it all over again. It’s an amazing psychological thriller and it will keep you turning the pages to find out what happens next.
I definitely recommend but please check your triggers!! It leaves us on a cliffhanger and I cannot wait for book 2!!
June 21, 2025
I was given a copy to read and this is my own opinion.
when I first received this book I was un prepared for the size. Don't let the size fool you, I could not put this book down it was a continuous flow that kept me hooked.
this story shares the multiple points of view beautifully and smoothly across the book without being repetitive. there is just enough of everything to keep you hooked.
you are going to love and hate characters. you are going to cry and what to throw the book in the WTF moments. I am buying this book when it releases this fall so I will have the new cover , because I will read this book again.
when I first received this book I was un prepared for the size. Don't let the size fool you, I could not put this book down it was a continuous flow that kept me hooked.
this story shares the multiple points of view beautifully and smoothly across the book without being repetitive. there is just enough of everything to keep you hooked.
you are going to love and hate characters. you are going to cry and what to throw the book in the WTF moments. I am buying this book when it releases this fall so I will have the new cover , because I will read this book again.
July 16, 2025
I’ve sat on my review for this for a couple of days; a book like this doesn’t lend itself to off-the-cuff response. This isn’t a light read. It’s not populated with black-and-white characters. Instead, it’s full of flawed, broken, COMPLEX humans. This…this story will get inside you. It’s raw in places, downright funny in others, and it leaves you sitting and staring at the wall while you try to put everything you just read into some sort of order. It will make you feel things that aren’t comfortable—but isn’t that what art is SUPPOSED to do? Read it. Just read it.
August 2, 2025
AJ Frazier brings us an epic and captivating story, deftly weaving multiple timelines and points of view.
This book tackles a variety of topics, including religion, global politics, trauma, and mystery. It is a powerful and haunting read.
The characters are multidimensional, and evoke a visceral response.
Frazier reminds us that we all have those little voices that urge us towards good or evil.
Is what is described in this book a miracle from God? or Something Else?
Can't wait to find out...
This book tackles a variety of topics, including religion, global politics, trauma, and mystery. It is a powerful and haunting read.
The characters are multidimensional, and evoke a visceral response.
Frazier reminds us that we all have those little voices that urge us towards good or evil.
Is what is described in this book a miracle from God? or Something Else?
Can't wait to find out...
February 18, 2026
Mariel is a bold and gripping thriller that skillfully blends faith, science, and political intrigue. The story moves across decades and continents, following a priest haunted by unexplained visions, a trained assassin wrestling with doubt, and a young woman unknowingly tied to a dangerous secret.
The tension builds steadily as their lives begin to intersect, revealing a conspiracy far deeper and older than they realize. Thought provoking and intense, this novel delivers suspense with substance and leaves a lasting impression.
The tension builds steadily as their lives begin to intersect, revealing a conspiracy far deeper and older than they realize. Thought provoking and intense, this novel delivers suspense with substance and leaves a lasting impression.
June 19, 2025
This book was sent to me a an arc. I am willingly giving this review. This book grabbed me from page one. The action, suspense and romance in this book was chef’s kiss. I felt like I was right there with the characters. This book has a bad ass FMC I love her! And Mariel is a MMC that you can’t help but love. Very well written.
It is a very slow burn and it does leave you on a cliff hanger. I am impatiently waiting for next one!
It is a very slow burn and it does leave you on a cliff hanger. I am impatiently waiting for next one!
June 21, 2025
Mariel is a masterpiece. It will have you staying up till the wee hours of the night to avoid your offspring and devour it in peace. The prose is cinematic. The characters are relatable, raw, and the twists and turns of this story will have you desperate for more. A.J. has honed and damn near perfected his craft. I am so grateful to have the privilege of getting to read and have a tiny part in this journey to what I hope is going to be a cult favorite. Welcome to the Prophecy.
July 17, 2025
I'm thrilled to have run across A.J. on tictok, and to have the privilege of an arc copy for an honest review.
Fantastic. That's it. Halfway through the book, I was so angry at the turn of events that I actually messaged AJ just so I could fuss (in a good way) at him 😭😂 The story more than made up for my emotional rollercoaster....just for me to enter another. I cannot wait for book 2. FYI: this isn't even my typical genre of books, and I ate this book up.
This is an absolute must read!
Fantastic. That's it. Halfway through the book, I was so angry at the turn of events that I actually messaged AJ just so I could fuss (in a good way) at him 😭😂 The story more than made up for my emotional rollercoaster....just for me to enter another. I cannot wait for book 2. FYI: this isn't even my typical genre of books, and I ate this book up.
This is an absolute must read!
August 23, 2025
This book was amazing! I was engrossed with the characters and plot that I couldn’t put it down! It was a think book but there was never a dull/boring moment in this book. It was so well written with multiple POVs, characters development, and story line. This one isn’t my normal go to for a book but man am I glad I went out of my comfort zone for this one! The ending 😳 I need book 2 like yesterday!! I look forward to reading all of A.J. Frazier books!
June 25, 2025
The sleep I lost reading this book was absolutely worth it. The multiple POV‘s was amazing. I really connected with this book and absolutely connected with the characters. It is so raw. He is an absolutely amazing author and I cannot wait to see what else he puts out. Do yourself a favor and buy this book when it comes out you will not regret it!!!
August 13, 2025
Mariel: The Beginning is a marvelous introduction into a world where science fiction and theology collide. This book reads as tandem experiences of multiple characters that are culminating to a climactic event that is life and world-altering. The characters feel realistic and beautifully flawed, and were very easy to connect with in surprising ways. I can't wait to see what happens next!
August 31, 2025
Frazier’s debut novel is a deeply intense and compelling read. The main characters are fleshed out and your want to root for them, even if they’re doing terrible things. I am not a fast reader, but was sucked in immediately and pulled along through this well-paced narrative. Action scenes, love scenes, family trauma, religious trauma, redemption and damnation. It has a little of everything!
October 29, 2025
Wow what a wild and well thought out ride of a book. The way the story so seamlessly fell together and pieces you were wondering about slowly came to light was mindbending. The characters are well written. The trauma and turmoil are believable. So many twists and turns and questions! I can't wait to read the next one!
June 20, 2025
Not my normal genera but a book you can't put down! There is definitely something for everyone in this book. If you don't think this is a book for you your wrong. pick it up the 1st chapter will grab you! I promise it won't disappoint!
June 21, 2025
Completely blown away! Totally spellbound from the beginning. I was so enthralled I binge-read until 3:30am one night because I HAD to finish the book before I could sleep.
Cannot wait until Book 2…. Grab this book now 😊
Cannot wait until Book 2…. Grab this book now 😊
September 19, 2025
Holy wow! This was a wild ride and I enjoyed every minute of it! I laughed, shed a tear and lost copious amounts of sleep while reading it. The twists and turns caused whiplash and the character development was dynamic. Anxiously waiting for book 2, while I'm rereading book 1.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews