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Immortal Mercenary #1
Mark of Cain
Get it before it goes up to regular price on March 11th!
My name isn't Callum Coldwell but, for your own sake, you should probably call me that
They say someone is murdered every minute...and I’m the reason why.
When I killed my brother, the Big Guy burned a mark into my skin and set me to wandering until the end of time. That was a while ago, and I think I’ve used my forever pretty well. Bagged a few women, saved a few lives, and gotten myself into and out of more trouble than I care to remember.
But something’s happening now. Evil forces are circling the wagons, and something sinister is getting ready to make a play for the big time. And, of course, it has me in its crosshairs.
When I said I wasn’t my brother’s keeper, I had no idea how wrong I was.
By now you've probably figured out my name. But don’t say it.
Bad things happen when people say my name.
My name isn't Callum Coldwell but, for your own sake, you should probably call me that
They say someone is murdered every minute...and I’m the reason why.
When I killed my brother, the Big Guy burned a mark into my skin and set me to wandering until the end of time. That was a while ago, and I think I’ve used my forever pretty well. Bagged a few women, saved a few lives, and gotten myself into and out of more trouble than I care to remember.
But something’s happening now. Evil forces are circling the wagons, and something sinister is getting ready to make a play for the big time. And, of course, it has me in its crosshairs.
When I said I wasn’t my brother’s keeper, I had no idea how wrong I was.
By now you've probably figured out my name. But don’t say it.
Bad things happen when people say my name.
262 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 5, 2017
107 people are currently reading
59 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
June 8, 2017
What happens when you take one of the founding stories from a mainstream religious ideology and make it the focus of a novel? A lot of fun.
Look, this book isn't without its flaws. There are some grammar errors that drove me nuts.
But I love the mythology, and the characters were pretty good (although there were a few moments where I rolled my eyes).
One of my favorite things was that I didn't predict the ending. I'm not entirely sure I liked the ending, but I didn't see it coming.
I'd love to see the text cleaned up, because it was actually a good read, and that was probably my biggest gripe.
Look, this book isn't without its flaws. There are some grammar errors that drove me nuts.
But I love the mythology, and the characters were pretty good (although there were a few moments where I rolled my eyes).
One of my favorite things was that I didn't predict the ending. I'm not entirely sure I liked the ending, but I didn't see it coming.
I'd love to see the text cleaned up, because it was actually a good read, and that was probably my biggest gripe.
March 12, 2017
The first thing I noticed was the cover, then the title, they were enough to get me to read the blurb and that got me to buy the book.
Given the name of the book and the blurb, it doesn't take a genius to figure out who the book is about. From that, you may imagine one type of book but it was the series title that intrigued me.
I admit I was somewhat disappointed that the name was misleading. Mercenary has a very clear meaning. It conjures distinct imagery and I can say that Callum does not live up that description. In fact, I don't think he lays a finger on anyone in the entire book. That's not to say there's no action or violence. There is but it is more from the Big Guy, in a do onto others situation.
The book was good. I read it in a day. It has the kind of story line that makes you stay engaged and thinking about it when you're not reading. You want to know what's going to happen.
Cain isn't whom you'd expect him to be well, he is but he isn't. The millennia of life has changed him. When you've literally watched the world grow up there isn't much you haven't seen or done. You see everything that humanity has to offer, both the good and the bad but the biggest changes are the relationships you forge. It's these relations that change Cain.
The OG murderer has changed. He'll do whatever he has to do to make sure that he's not responsible for any more murders.
Just when he thought there was nothing that could surprise him, a string of murders, a crazed coven of witches, and an old power all have him jumping from one hot pan to another until finally, he's forced to jump into the fire.
The book was not my typical read but I really enjoyed it and the conclusion surely will make you want to keep an eye out for the next book.
Given the name of the book and the blurb, it doesn't take a genius to figure out who the book is about. From that, you may imagine one type of book but it was the series title that intrigued me.
I admit I was somewhat disappointed that the name was misleading. Mercenary has a very clear meaning. It conjures distinct imagery and I can say that Callum does not live up that description. In fact, I don't think he lays a finger on anyone in the entire book. That's not to say there's no action or violence. There is but it is more from the Big Guy, in a do onto others situation.
The book was good. I read it in a day. It has the kind of story line that makes you stay engaged and thinking about it when you're not reading. You want to know what's going to happen.
Cain isn't whom you'd expect him to be well, he is but he isn't. The millennia of life has changed him. When you've literally watched the world grow up there isn't much you haven't seen or done. You see everything that humanity has to offer, both the good and the bad but the biggest changes are the relationships you forge. It's these relations that change Cain.
The OG murderer has changed. He'll do whatever he has to do to make sure that he's not responsible for any more murders.
Just when he thought there was nothing that could surprise him, a string of murders, a crazed coven of witches, and an old power all have him jumping from one hot pan to another until finally, he's forced to jump into the fire.
The book was not my typical read but I really enjoyed it and the conclusion surely will make you want to keep an eye out for the next book.
March 13, 2017
this was almost a 4 star book if not for one really inexcusable thing: the fact that the author brought in some romani characters about halfway through and used the word 'gypsy' to refer to them like 200 hundred times. normally i would think 'well maybe he doesn't realize this is a racial slur and completely offensive term' but that clearly wasn't the case here since the main character repeatedly said 'they don't like to be called that' / 'don't call them that to their faces' ...and proceeded to keep using it when the romani characters were not present / in his internal monologue. REALLY??? so that's something you might want to keep in mind before buying this.
the rest of the book was pretty good. as i mentioned last week i am a total sucker for biblical urban fantasy stuff that isn't just the standard angels and demons thing. there were some minor editing errors but nothing that really distracted me too much from the text. i really liked all the characters, especially merry and mimi, and was actually pleasantly surprised by the villain reveal at the end [not what i was expecting AT ALL]. cain was definitely an interesting character and i like the different 'powers' he has and also that we got a little dip into his backstory. also i like that he has to be saved by other people sometimes, an over-powered MC is never believable / relatable. the set up for the next book sounds really intriguing so i will definitely be following this series [and hoping there are no derogatory terms in the next one]
the rest of the book was pretty good. as i mentioned last week i am a total sucker for biblical urban fantasy stuff that isn't just the standard angels and demons thing. there were some minor editing errors but nothing that really distracted me too much from the text. i really liked all the characters, especially merry and mimi, and was actually pleasantly surprised by the villain reveal at the end [not what i was expecting AT ALL]. cain was definitely an interesting character and i like the different 'powers' he has and also that we got a little dip into his backstory. also i like that he has to be saved by other people sometimes, an over-powered MC is never believable / relatable. the set up for the next book sounds really intriguing so i will definitely be following this series [and hoping there are no derogatory terms in the next one]
June 3, 2017
The journeys of Calluis/Cain since he was changed gives a vivid picture and draws you in. Not only does it give some backstory it has a creative flow of present time and all the things he's going through. The characters come to life as you read each chapter. I would highly recommend this be read by all. The book was written with soul.
*I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this advance reader copy and was not compensated in any way.*
January 11, 2018
I liked the cover and the summary. The character is all about redemption which comes across throughout the whole story showing what he'd do, Maybe a bit too much. Could do with another grammar check but the story is fun, a little two way as you think it will go one way and swerves in another. The ending gave me pause leaving the story and character relationships wide open. I'm still going to read the next one.
January 28, 2018
My biggest problem with this book is its representation of women. I'm not going to reveal any spoilers, but this book was a disappointment because I think the premise is good, but I can't applaud it because of its representation of women. I was planning to review this on my book but I've changed my mind now.
June 3, 2017
Very good book
Extremely interesting take on a character we are all familiar with. This book is fiction at its best. You believe the world is real and never doubt that the main character is Cain from the bible story we all know. Well done!!!
Extremely interesting take on a character we are all familiar with. This book is fiction at its best. You believe the world is real and never doubt that the main character is Cain from the bible story we all know. Well done!!!
July 5, 2017
Interesting spin on ancient tale
Character drawn in a compelling way. Story strains credibility a little on even its own internal scale. Good got someone looking for a nice diversion.
Character drawn in a compelling way. Story strains credibility a little on even its own internal scale. Good got someone looking for a nice diversion.
November 14, 2017
Mark of Cain
Pretty Impressive read, from start to finish the story of Cain seem to gel with all the characters around him. A great cast of heroes and anti-heroes to go round, lots of action,and a story you can relate too. You can't ask more than that. Fab
Pretty Impressive read, from start to finish the story of Cain seem to gel with all the characters around him. A great cast of heroes and anti-heroes to go round, lots of action,and a story you can relate too. You can't ask more than that. Fab
March 12, 2017
Hard to put down
Hard to put down. A really good story. Had me asking what's going to happen next. To bad there's not a second book.
Hard to put down. A really good story. Had me asking what's going to happen next. To bad there's not a second book.
June 6, 2017
Well that was quite the sucker punch ending. Jfc. Very good read, look forward to more!
August 22, 2017
Good read different.
I little different on what I normally read , but it was pretty good.
I would recommend it for anyone who looking for something different.
I little different on what I normally read , but it was pretty good.
I would recommend it for anyone who looking for something different.
August 27, 2017
Good read.
Good read. Not too deep into the theology. Quick and engaging with characters that are like able. Will definitely finish the series.
Good read. Not too deep into the theology. Quick and engaging with characters that are like able. Will definitely finish the series.
January 21, 2018
Awesome
Well written engaging and spell binding. Looking forward to the next books in this series. You will enjoy it to.
Well written engaging and spell binding. Looking forward to the next books in this series. You will enjoy it to.
March 16, 2017
Wow excellent story telling!!
This is the first book I've read of Connors and I wasn't disappointed! I read the book he co authored with j.a Cipriano, and Cain was briefly in that book, that little taste of Cain made me curios about his story, and I'm so glad it did.
Cain is a very interesting and complex character. The book read like a really good film that I couldn't stop watching! I can't recommend this book highly enough. Can't wait to read more of Connors work!
This is the first book I've read of Connors and I wasn't disappointed! I read the book he co authored with j.a Cipriano, and Cain was briefly in that book, that little taste of Cain made me curios about his story, and I'm so glad it did.
Cain is a very interesting and complex character. The book read like a really good film that I couldn't stop watching! I can't recommend this book highly enough. Can't wait to read more of Connors work!
March 7, 2017
I had read some books co-authored by Mr. Kressley, and really liked them so I dived into this book expecting goodness. Mark of Cain was absolutely and completely terrific! Not only was the book well-written, it had a unique plot, the characters were funny and entertaining, and it was action-packed! I really did have a hard time putting it down because I couldn’t wait to see what was going to happen next. Cain was a very sympathetic character, and I really felt for him. I was so enamored with this book, I stalked Amazon to see when it was coming out so I would have a good idea when the *next* book would be coming out. It was *that* good! I was actually given a copy of this book, not by the author, but by another author before this came out. When I finally saw the book was out, I immediately bought a copy to make sure there would be another book. However, don’t take my work for it; grab a copy today and see for yourself. You will not regret it. Highly recommend!! This exact review will be posted on both Amazon and Goodreads.
March 8, 2017
Pretty good, could be better
I liked the storyline, but the main character seemed a bit needy or off in some way. Maybe I am just jaded, but I would have thought Cain would be a bit more intense or ruthless maybe. Instead he came across as a conflicted little snowflake. But, like I said, the storyline was good and I will buy the next in the series.
I liked the storyline, but the main character seemed a bit needy or off in some way. Maybe I am just jaded, but I would have thought Cain would be a bit more intense or ruthless maybe. Instead he came across as a conflicted little snowflake. But, like I said, the storyline was good and I will buy the next in the series.
March 10, 2017
Loved this book, can't wait til the next one. Action packed and a unique twist on a story as old as time. A few twists I would have never saw coming.
March 26, 2017
I enjoyed this take on Cain. It was fresh to me. Cain's character as a jaded immortal who can be hurt but not die was well done. The reason I gave it 4 stars is that there are several typos and wrong tensed verbs. If you can overlook those problems then this is a good quick read.
April 3, 2017
Its a decent read, it is inventive and fresh in places and does fit well within the world view painted in his collaboration with j Cipriano where Cain first showed up. It "almost" warrants 5 stars but for a few minor bugs that really irritated me. But I stress they are minor and for the most part this is a good addictive read.
First of all this is compulsive and addictive reading. I read it in a day, as it generally went from action to action and I just had to know what happened next. From a personal point of view the author got the balance of action, character building, and world building just right. But I know people’s preferences vary in this respect so I’ll explain that personally I don't like excessive world building, mass info dumps, or four pages just describing a characters clothes or facial expressions. Nor do I want three quarters of a page just to say that either the sun is shining or that its raining but in soon wordy inventive way. I know some people complain when there is not detailed world building or character descriptions, but personally I prefer the brief descriptions necessary to set the scene then I like something interesting to happen. In this respect I think the author nailed it, and the balance was just right for me. The book is exciting, and does have some fresh new perspectives for this genre.
Generally speaking I really liked it. My issues with the book are to be honest very minor, specific to plot aspects and the main one of those was due I believe to poor editing.
BELOW ARE SPOILERS
My complaints are plot related, and minor issues, but to explain them is impossible without spoilers, so if you don’t want to know any spoilers do not read any further.
First of all after several millennia Cain still hasn’t learnt any magic? Er what? But then the author uses clever work arounds so that Cain can do magic without doing magic. But some he claims he’s just thought up, oh only took 3000 years? And conveniently thought them up just as they were needed? Two er as he doesn’t know any magic, how come he knows so much about magic? How come he was able to move the garden of Eden into an alternate reality and one unreachable by anyone else if he can’t do magic? There are some glaring contradictions and discrepancies between what’s said and done early in the book when compared to the end sections. Then you’ve got to ask yourself how would a person supposedly hated by heaven, not allowed access to heaven, be responsible for setting an arch angel up with his future wife?? In what reality would this be possible and like how the heck could that happen? But he did so the arch angel owes him a favour???
And the bad guys plot line initially seems they want to punish him for being a murder, by murdering innocent people. And apparently this happens frequently throughout his past. Er that’s like punishing Hitler for being a Nazi by joining the Nazi party. And to be honest Cain constantly being referred to as murderer with varying descriptions of disdain in their voices, especially by murderers became extremely trite and annoying before I was a third of the way through the book.
MY final gripe, and this really really bugged me, was due I’m sure to poor editing. Having made a big deal about the catastrophe caused by someone saying his name in his presence, he then makes a big deal about his name being used without any catastrophe and this leads to him figuring out who the big bad guy really is. Okay in theory, IF the bad guy had actually used his name. I went back and reread the previous pages twice to see if I had missed something, but no I hadn’t, Cain was referred to only as “murderer” his name hadn’t been used at that point. Though it soon was. As I said its minor and its poor editing, but it still really really ground a nerve with me.
First of all this is compulsive and addictive reading. I read it in a day, as it generally went from action to action and I just had to know what happened next. From a personal point of view the author got the balance of action, character building, and world building just right. But I know people’s preferences vary in this respect so I’ll explain that personally I don't like excessive world building, mass info dumps, or four pages just describing a characters clothes or facial expressions. Nor do I want three quarters of a page just to say that either the sun is shining or that its raining but in soon wordy inventive way. I know some people complain when there is not detailed world building or character descriptions, but personally I prefer the brief descriptions necessary to set the scene then I like something interesting to happen. In this respect I think the author nailed it, and the balance was just right for me. The book is exciting, and does have some fresh new perspectives for this genre.
Generally speaking I really liked it. My issues with the book are to be honest very minor, specific to plot aspects and the main one of those was due I believe to poor editing.
BELOW ARE SPOILERS
My complaints are plot related, and minor issues, but to explain them is impossible without spoilers, so if you don’t want to know any spoilers do not read any further.
First of all after several millennia Cain still hasn’t learnt any magic? Er what? But then the author uses clever work arounds so that Cain can do magic without doing magic. But some he claims he’s just thought up, oh only took 3000 years? And conveniently thought them up just as they were needed? Two er as he doesn’t know any magic, how come he knows so much about magic? How come he was able to move the garden of Eden into an alternate reality and one unreachable by anyone else if he can’t do magic? There are some glaring contradictions and discrepancies between what’s said and done early in the book when compared to the end sections. Then you’ve got to ask yourself how would a person supposedly hated by heaven, not allowed access to heaven, be responsible for setting an arch angel up with his future wife?? In what reality would this be possible and like how the heck could that happen? But he did so the arch angel owes him a favour???
And the bad guys plot line initially seems they want to punish him for being a murder, by murdering innocent people. And apparently this happens frequently throughout his past. Er that’s like punishing Hitler for being a Nazi by joining the Nazi party. And to be honest Cain constantly being referred to as murderer with varying descriptions of disdain in their voices, especially by murderers became extremely trite and annoying before I was a third of the way through the book.
MY final gripe, and this really really bugged me, was due I’m sure to poor editing. Having made a big deal about the catastrophe caused by someone saying his name in his presence, he then makes a big deal about his name being used without any catastrophe and this leads to him figuring out who the big bad guy really is. Okay in theory, IF the bad guy had actually used his name. I went back and reread the previous pages twice to see if I had missed something, but no I hadn’t, Cain was referred to only as “murderer” his name hadn’t been used at that point. Though it soon was. As I said its minor and its poor editing, but it still really really ground a nerve with me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 28, 2017
What a great book. I liked the different take on Cain and his curse. Since the story takes place now and not in the past, I thought Cain was a hoot. Many scenes made be laugh and I was totally entertained throughout the book. Even though he has lived thousands of years, in many way Cain's attitude is pure 21st century. The story was well written and I finished the book in one sitting. Had to see who was gunning for Cain. My guess was nowhere close to who it actually was. I loved that there are other paranormal groups in this world and cannot wait to see what happens in the rest of the series. I know Cain is going to get into more trouble.
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