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Blood of Cain #1
Monstrous
Frankie Mourning died on a Thursday. Then she came back.Tasked with killing the killers – people with the blood of Cain running through their veins – Frankie always gets her villain. But this time it's different. This time she has to go home. Something strange is happening in Helmville, Montana. People are dying at an alarming rate, and the sheriff is ruling them all accidents and suicides.Nothing is as it seems and Frankie soon finds herself sucked into the tangled and seemingly supernatural mystery. Because the people acting strangely, the people killing everyone around her are haunting the mirrors. Now Frankie's own reflection is behaving strangely and seems hellbent on causing her harm. In a world enmeshed in remote beauty, dark magic, and violent memories, Frankie feels lost. Luckily, a detective on the run for murder shows up.Thomas Dekker wants to help and claims he cares about Frankie. But daring to trust him could cost her everything.
467 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 6, 2016
120 people are currently reading
321 people want to read
About the author
J.L. Murray
21 books150 followersJ.L. Murray is the author of the Niki Slobodian series (Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea, The Devil Is a Gentleman, Before the Devil Knows You're Dead, The Devil Was an Angel, and The Devil's Backbone), The Thirteen series (Jenny Undead and Eat the Ones You Love), After the Fire, Blood Day, the Blood of Cain series (Monstrous, Hoarfrost, Sanguine), the Gothic Folk series (The Hungry Deep), and The Collins Widow.
Murray is a firm believer that horror can be beautiful, and that good and evil are very far from black and white. She lives with her family in Eugene, Oregon and can be reached through her website at www.jlmurraywriter.com.
Murray is a firm believer that horror can be beautiful, and that good and evil are very far from black and white. She lives with her family in Eugene, Oregon and can be reached through her website at www.jlmurraywriter.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
February 21, 2017
A very interesting book, certainly plenty of action to keep the reader intrigued. I think I will have to reread this again though as certain times I became a little confused. And I wonder if the reason for that being is I don't know much in the bible. Maybe it was just me that was a little confused? Even though I was a little confused, I still had difficulty putting it down. I would suggest this more to young adult than teen due to the violence, swearing and sex. I certainly didn't mind it and found that it made the story that much better but I think it should just be noted. I'm not quite sure if I will read the next in the series. I do however like this author's writing style, so I may just pick a different book of his/hers.
February 6, 2017
If you're a fan of the television show Supernatural, you're sure to love this book. Frankie, our main character, has all of the attributes of the beloved Dean Winchester. If you've seen the episodes where he has the mark of Cain, you'll really identify with her. 'I killed him. I liked it. I feel guilty about liking it, but not guilty enough not to do it again.' This sort of tossing back and forth is what makes her such a lovable character. Her most endearing quality is that she's human (sort of) and she's grappling with it.
Murray's storytelling is constant throughout and keeps you captivated. Even in the down times where there doesn't seem to be a lot of action going on, you're still pulling information out of the book and streamlining it into your brain. She's quick-witted and adds the right amount of humor to balance the horror that takes precedence in the story.
For me, the most entertaining part of this book is the shock. These people aren't like me. Granted, there are people like this in the world. It was a blast to be flipping page after page with my brain doing the finger nod and saying 'Oh no she di'n't!'
As the beginning of a series, this has everything. Though the characters aren't nice, you can still relate to them and you want to get to know them better. We establish relationships with both the characters and the world. We have a basic idea of what's going on, but we still need to know more. I'm looking forward to more in this series, Blood of Cain, as well as checking out Murray's other works.
Murray's storytelling is constant throughout and keeps you captivated. Even in the down times where there doesn't seem to be a lot of action going on, you're still pulling information out of the book and streamlining it into your brain. She's quick-witted and adds the right amount of humor to balance the horror that takes precedence in the story.
For me, the most entertaining part of this book is the shock. These people aren't like me. Granted, there are people like this in the world. It was a blast to be flipping page after page with my brain doing the finger nod and saying 'Oh no she di'n't!'
As the beginning of a series, this has everything. Though the characters aren't nice, you can still relate to them and you want to get to know them better. We establish relationships with both the characters and the world. We have a basic idea of what's going on, but we still need to know more. I'm looking forward to more in this series, Blood of Cain, as well as checking out Murray's other works.
August 11, 2020
4.5 stars.
This dark horror thriller is nearly 500 pages, although while reading you don't even notice that. The main character Frankie has just woken up after being put to death for multiple murders. She's been tasked by an unseen entity to rid the world of evildoers. The initial murders she committed were of her family, albeit possessed family members. She's given names to hunt down those criminals (serial killers etc) the entity commands.
To say she's a bit angry is an understatement, especially when her assignment leads her back towards her hometown & the supernatural shenanigans that have taken it over.
This book is heavy on Christian mythology (cain, Abel, & even Lilith) with it's own little twists.
This dark horror thriller is nearly 500 pages, although while reading you don't even notice that. The main character Frankie has just woken up after being put to death for multiple murders. She's been tasked by an unseen entity to rid the world of evildoers. The initial murders she committed were of her family, albeit possessed family members. She's given names to hunt down those criminals (serial killers etc) the entity commands.
To say she's a bit angry is an understatement, especially when her assignment leads her back towards her hometown & the supernatural shenanigans that have taken it over.
This book is heavy on Christian mythology (cain, Abel, & even Lilith) with it's own little twists.
April 8, 2017
This thing was bloody fantastic and I loved it. The cover art was beautiful as well. Many, many thanks go to the author for setting me up with a copy of this wonderful book in exchange for an honest review.
Frankie Mourning was executed by the state for the crime of killing her mother and sister, despite her protests that the things wearing her family's’ faces were nothing like human. She was resurrected three days later, her autopsy scar barely holding together. Frankie is a fascinating anti-heroine, who isn’t Mary Sunshine, who doesn’t always do the right thing, and is just as dark and messed up as the world she lives in. Think Jessica Jones, but much, much darker.
She lives in a world populated by murders, whom she is sent to eliminate. She is given these orders by creatures that I can only describe as shadows, or shades. They are bone chilling. They appear out of the shadows and tend to repeat themselves. Super creepy. Frankie pays for her life with the blood of serial killers, and she’s good at her job. It’s a lonely life. When the shades order her to return to her hometown - back to the scene of her family’s deaths - she learns that she has been marked by the darkness for far longer than she ever suspected.
This author has gained herself a new fan. I cannot wait to see what twisted thing I will discover from her next.
Frankie Mourning was executed by the state for the crime of killing her mother and sister, despite her protests that the things wearing her family's’ faces were nothing like human. She was resurrected three days later, her autopsy scar barely holding together. Frankie is a fascinating anti-heroine, who isn’t Mary Sunshine, who doesn’t always do the right thing, and is just as dark and messed up as the world she lives in. Think Jessica Jones, but much, much darker.
She lives in a world populated by murders, whom she is sent to eliminate. She is given these orders by creatures that I can only describe as shadows, or shades. They are bone chilling. They appear out of the shadows and tend to repeat themselves. Super creepy. Frankie pays for her life with the blood of serial killers, and she’s good at her job. It’s a lonely life. When the shades order her to return to her hometown - back to the scene of her family’s deaths - she learns that she has been marked by the darkness for far longer than she ever suspected.
This author has gained herself a new fan. I cannot wait to see what twisted thing I will discover from her next.
December 6, 2016
I just finished Monstrous by J.L. Murray. I was excited to see it early this morning on my Kindle and couldn't put it down. I loved the complex character of Frankie Mourning and her history that we kept seeing more of throughout the book. I thought I knew what was going on but definitely was surprised about half way through. It is very full of action, surprises, but also of character building. You can feel Frankie's emotions at times because the author has written such a riveting story, you get pulled into the character. I definitely didn't see all the twists and turns coming. You really couldn't rely on what you "thought" was going on because of the superb story telling. Even though its not exactly the same genre, I would compare this to the gripping way Anne Bishop's Black Jewels universe would suck you in and not let go. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys books that grab you and don't let you go until you finish it.
December 6, 2016
READ THIS BOOK!
This is not a genre I usually read but it so happens that J.L. Murray is one of my favorite authors and I opened page 1. Whatever you might be thinking from the blurb, forget it, that ain´t it! This book is completely unpredictable and with endless plot twists, great writing, wonderful characters and beautifully dark. The original story line is amazing and most unexpected and worth every minute spent reading. Good editing.
This is not a genre I usually read but it so happens that J.L. Murray is one of my favorite authors and I opened page 1. Whatever you might be thinking from the blurb, forget it, that ain´t it! This book is completely unpredictable and with endless plot twists, great writing, wonderful characters and beautifully dark. The original story line is amazing and most unexpected and worth every minute spent reading. Good editing.
December 11, 2016
I don't know what more I can say about this book except I loved every deliciously, devilishly dark page of this book, without any really "good" guys, this is the book for all the dark souls out there that get a bit tired of the all the candy floss - think of this as palate cleanser before christmas
December 30, 2016
Can't wait to read the next book!!!!
March 4, 2017
Dark, tragic and full of adult themes/language. This gritty tale is a page turner full of demonic possession, horrific life altering situations and a who's who of Damnation's original characters bent on humanity's destruction. Full of double take moments, cheap hotels, blood spilling and a twisted love story to boot, this shocking story is hard to put down.
December 6, 2017
Monstrous is the first J.L. Murray book I've read. I've got to say I love her dark style. Frankie is perfect in her imperfections and Deckker seems like he'd be any woman's fantasy with his deep need to save her.
I can't wait for more from J. L. Murray. I'll be following this series closely because I'm looking forward to more.
I can't wait for more from J. L. Murray. I'll be following this series closely because I'm looking forward to more.
December 6, 2016
Received an ARC in exchange for my honest review. Monstrous is dark, gritty and enthralling. Frankie Mourning is a complex woman, who has many secrets. Was sad to see I had finished. But, I know Murray has many more delights coming for her fans.
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January 4, 2020🎁 Books 1 & 2 in the Series are FREE on Amazon today (1/4/2020)! 🎁
September 28, 2024
What an exciting read! This is not my normal genre but I do love reading different genres to break up the vibes.
This book has elements from bible stories and fantasy that keep you gripped and turning pages! The author is very descriptive and really lays out details so you can imagine each scene. Can’t wait to read the next book!
This book has elements from bible stories and fantasy that keep you gripped and turning pages! The author is very descriptive and really lays out details so you can imagine each scene. Can’t wait to read the next book!
May 24, 2023
This will test your endurance.
This is a well written book with characters so poignant that your heart will ache.
The setting will both bolster and baffle you and if you have ever wondered about the differences between salvation and evil, you might find yourself enjoying this.
I would hedge my bets and say Not family friendly here and go with 18+ for the many sensitive topics here.
This is a well written book with characters so poignant that your heart will ache.
The setting will both bolster and baffle you and if you have ever wondered about the differences between salvation and evil, you might find yourself enjoying this.
I would hedge my bets and say Not family friendly here and go with 18+ for the many sensitive topics here.
November 18, 2017
I was not sure what to think at first as it’s different then what I usually read. Yet I could not put the nook down as it caught my imagination. Found it to be intriguing and full of mystery and suspense. Can’t wait to read the next book and find out what will happen next.
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January 6, 2020
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April 4, 2017
This SUPERNATURAL THRILLER gives you a choice, choose your side. Choose CAIN or ABEL! The brothers are still fighting for supremacy. Abel did NOT STAY DEAD. He is one of GODS SUPER CREATIONS. You have to decide if in fact Cain is the evil one or if perhaps BOTH brothers have somehow failed. One brother has brought a woman back from death to do his monstrous biddings. She is so successful at it that one or both brothers are in danger of HER WRATH . A TREMENDOUSLY ENTERTAINING READ I TOTALLY RECOMMEND. ENJOY! in danger
This SUPERNATURAL THRILLER gives you a choice, choose your side. Choose CAIN or ABEL! THE brothers are still fighting for supremacy. Abel did NOT STAY DEAD. He is one of GODS SUPERIOR CREATIONS. You have to decide if in fact Cain is the evil one or if perhaps BOTH brothers have somehow failed. One has brought a woman back from death to do his monstrous bidings. She is so successful at it that one or both brothers are in danger of HER WRATH. A TREMENDOUSLY ENTERTAINING READ I TOTALLY RECOMMEND..ENJOY!!
This SUPERNATURAL THRILLER gives you a choice, choose your side. Choose CAIN or ABEL! THE brothers are still fighting for supremacy. Abel did NOT STAY DEAD. He is one of GODS SUPERIOR CREATIONS. You have to decide if in fact Cain is the evil one or if perhaps BOTH brothers have somehow failed. One has brought a woman back from death to do his monstrous bidings. She is so successful at it that one or both brothers are in danger of HER WRATH. A TREMENDOUSLY ENTERTAINING READ I TOTALLY RECOMMEND..ENJOY!!
July 16, 2020
actual rating: 3.5
I've been finding it hard to get into urban fantasy lately but I really liked this one. I think this author does a good job of combining a lot of very common urban fantasy elements with things that are a bit more out there and original like her take on the biblical mythology in this one to make it feel interesting and not just like you're reading the same book over and over again.
[edit 7/16/20: Even though I liked this book at the time I've decided not to go on and read the next one. I just don't read as much as I used to and I've had to become a lot pickier about what I read as a consequence. This was good but I just keep looking at the next one like 'but do I *really* need to read it?]
I've been finding it hard to get into urban fantasy lately but I really liked this one. I think this author does a good job of combining a lot of very common urban fantasy elements with things that are a bit more out there and original like her take on the biblical mythology in this one to make it feel interesting and not just like you're reading the same book over and over again.
[edit 7/16/20: Even though I liked this book at the time I've decided not to go on and read the next one. I just don't read as much as I used to and I've had to become a lot pickier about what I read as a consequence. This was good but I just keep looking at the next one like 'but do I *really* need to read it?]
March 26, 2017
Keeping this short and sweet, I loved everything about this book. I am so looking forward to the second in the series.
The only issue I had was that Frankie's Challenger occasionally became a Charger...
The only issue I had was that Frankie's Challenger occasionally became a Charger...
February 7, 2017
Classic Jl Murray! Lots of mystery, darkness and pathos. Fantastic characters as always. 4.25 stars.
March 30, 2024
Gosh I wanted to like this. I did enjoy probably the first 1/2 of the book and felt that it was an original mythos but then it just…unraveled. I didn’t like how the main character acted once she found “the love of her life”. She was a badass before and then after she became soppy and annoying. Also her incessant admonition to Dekker to leaver her because he “deserves better” etc. was frustrating. I skimmed the last 1/4 of the book. Will not be picking up the second one in the series.
April 14, 2019
Excellent!
I wish I could give this more than 5 stars! A well written story that grabs you and won't let you down! I can't wait to read Book 2 which I will do when I finish this review! The characters are well developed, interesting and freaky all at the same time!!! You will be wishing for more at the end. BUY IT NOW!!
I wish I could give this more than 5 stars! A well written story that grabs you and won't let you down! I can't wait to read Book 2 which I will do when I finish this review! The characters are well developed, interesting and freaky all at the same time!!! You will be wishing for more at the end. BUY IT NOW!!
October 3, 2023
2.5 stars
Oh this had so much potential. A cross between Dexter, Chess Putnam and Kate Daniels. A dark horror biblical fantasy but it was just too messy and convoluted in the way the author built the world. A bit of streamlining from the right editor and this would be a 4-5 star book easy. Also it had insta-love which I personally hate.
Oh this had so much potential. A cross between Dexter, Chess Putnam and Kate Daniels. A dark horror biblical fantasy but it was just too messy and convoluted in the way the author built the world. A bit of streamlining from the right editor and this would be a 4-5 star book easy. Also it had insta-love which I personally hate.
September 24, 2024
I adored another series by this author so wanted to check put more of their stuff. This was full of things I don’t like; super creepy horror, lots of child abuse, biblical stuff. I still read most of it (skimming the scary parts) because it was a compelling story, had a powerful and bitter MC, and the banter made me smile.
January 11, 2020
Blood of Cain Book 1
Wow. This story gives a totally different outlook of what we are taught in Bible study. It is worked in a way that it could have been true. Loved this book and I totally recommend it. Now looking forward to book 2.
Wow. This story gives a totally different outlook of what we are taught in Bible study. It is worked in a way that it could have been true. Loved this book and I totally recommend it. Now looking forward to book 2.
January 29, 2019
Intriguing adventure with a bloody twist
I've never read anything quite like it. The story is riveting and the use of the Cain and Abel figures is unique
I've never read anything quite like it. The story is riveting and the use of the Cain and Abel figures is unique
May 3, 2023
Dark and gory mix of urban fantasy and biblical mythology with a killer foul-mouthed female character. So good! 🖤
February 6, 2022
A dark and twisted, HIGHLY original story!
August 7, 2023
The Darkness Within
•••NOT for the homophobic, transphobic, closed minded or feint of heart!•••
This series must be read in order. This is the first book. I can't wait to read Hoarfrost!
Frankie has never been the same as everyone else. Not even when she was a kid. Something happened to her sister... And noone believed her. They said it was a dream. Then something happened to her mom. They were strange and evil and she was scared all the time. After the killed her father right in front of her, she knew she had to run... For the little good it did her. Always she was returned back to the creatures that killed her father, the creatures that used to be her family. The cop said horses killed her father. The last time she was forced back home she had a plan... She burned her sister and mother alive and was finally free. So she lived and killed evil people, giving them what they deserved, until she was caught and sentenced to death... But people like her don't get to die. Instead she was brought back and given a choice: hunt and destroy the murderers with the Blood Of Cain, earning her redemption..... Or go to Hell. What's a girl to do? Followed by Ravens and haunted by Wraiths giving orders, Frankie does the bidding of her mysterious benefactor. Why is she special? What always made her different? Is she really alive again? Can she die? What were the things that took over her sister and mother? Why was she Chosen for this? Will she ever be free?
***This series is suitable for adult readers who enjoy the darker side of paranormal romance filled with horror, snark, magic, Gods, monsters and more :D
•••NOT for the homophobic, transphobic, closed minded or feint of heart!•••
This series must be read in order. This is the first book. I can't wait to read Hoarfrost!
Frankie has never been the same as everyone else. Not even when she was a kid. Something happened to her sister... And noone believed her. They said it was a dream. Then something happened to her mom. They were strange and evil and she was scared all the time. After the killed her father right in front of her, she knew she had to run... For the little good it did her. Always she was returned back to the creatures that killed her father, the creatures that used to be her family. The cop said horses killed her father. The last time she was forced back home she had a plan... She burned her sister and mother alive and was finally free. So she lived and killed evil people, giving them what they deserved, until she was caught and sentenced to death... But people like her don't get to die. Instead she was brought back and given a choice: hunt and destroy the murderers with the Blood Of Cain, earning her redemption..... Or go to Hell. What's a girl to do? Followed by Ravens and haunted by Wraiths giving orders, Frankie does the bidding of her mysterious benefactor. Why is she special? What always made her different? Is she really alive again? Can she die? What were the things that took over her sister and mother? Why was she Chosen for this? Will she ever be free?
***This series is suitable for adult readers who enjoy the darker side of paranormal romance filled with horror, snark, magic, Gods, monsters and more :D
August 10, 2022
Truly was shocked and happy when I read this book years ago. I just devoured the whole damn book in 1 day. Mind you I forgot about how much I loved it until I reread again
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews