The Devil’s Prayer

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Chilling. Scary. Painful. Brilliant.

It is a painful and heartbreaking yet captivating and horror story of a woman who faces such betrayal,deciet,lies and torture

And then it's all about her journey towards revenge and then the ultimate discovery that sets her on a difficult path.

I am so glad I picked this one up from NetGalley!

This was absolutely UNEXPECTED.

I opened this one up and then I couldn't spend a single peaceful moment til I finished it. Yes it was THAT good.

I was reminded of so many things, movies and books during this one. The DaVinci Code to name a few. The author has done a brilliant job with all the details and the research is clearly thorough because every word is written with such clarify.

If you enjoyed that, you will love this one so much!

But I really really suggest anyone reading this to give this one a chance

Absolutely addictive. This is a page-turned historical thriller, and definitely couldn't put it down from the very beginning. Luke Garcias' style of writing, the high-leveled suspense will keep you in your seat unable to put the book down, leaving you to wonder what will happen next.

For the first time in a long time I had to stop myself from reading it in one seating because it was to good to finish in one-go. Absolutely loved the strong female characters, and the details of the several historical events and places. Gracias took me in a journey across the world and in an amazing adventure.

This book will definitely make you shiver and make your pulse racing!

“The Devil’s Prayer” is a phenomenal book that makes you want to read it over and over again. The author blends history and fiction into a cocoon of reality that leaves the reader wondering what was historical and what wasn’t. “The Devil’s Prayer” is extremely well researched with no shortage of details.

A mixture of “The Da Vinci Code” and “Rosemary’s Baby”…. Highly recommend this new favorite of mine.

An unusual book that, for me, was as educational as it was interesting. It is by far the book in which I highlighted the most passages for personal research.

Though raised as a Christian (Lutheran), I never knew too much about the history of Catholicism. The plot centers on the redemptive journey of a young woman, tricked into a sexual encounter with Satan himself, which resulted in the birth of her second daughter. Satan is personified not as a raging devil, but rather is portrayed as a seemingly unobtrusive "normal" man with piercing eyes... someone the main character keeps seeing on the perimeter of her daily activities. Of course, Satan's goal is not one intended to inspire hope in the future of mankind.

What I especially found fascinating about this book, however, is the content of all those highlighted passages to which I referred in my opening paragraph. Those passages focused on the ancient history of the Catholic church and the highly evocative descriptions of some of the most isolated monasteries and convents ever built, including all their hidden rooms, basements and attics... accessible only by disguised buttons and highly-guarded keys made centuries ago (e.g., much of the tumultuous activity took place in 1222) . I was also intrigued by "The Devil's Prayer", Pope Honorius, and Arnaud Amalric... If you, too, are not familiar with the above, I suspect you'll be tempted to do some research of your own.

All in all, a different kind of book where historical facts often overshadow the plot, although that doesn't detract from the enjoyment of the story in the least. Still highly recommended!

*** This book was provided to me by the author and/or the publisher as an ARC in return for my honest review. ***

The Devil's Prayer by Luke Gracias is a phenomenal book, a perfect mixture of history, religion, fiction and educational. Reminded me of my favorite Dan Brown books.
This book starts of in mysterious circumstance of a nun (Denise Russo) chased by a band of monks who hangs herself from a church bell in front of a ritual parade of eight thousand people leaving the reader in questions like who is she? why would a nun do something like that? What follows is a cat and mouse game between the nun's young girl Siobhan Russo in search of mothers past who disappeared six years ago filled with secrets and a band of monks pledged to make sure she fails.The dairy of Denise throws light to her past, a past shattered by acts of greed and betrayal forcing her to make a deal with the Devil. As the pages unfold, the pace of the book sets your pulse racing.

I loved this fast paced gripping thriller specially because the author has done a fantastic job in providing detailed information on the bible, monasteries, ancient manuscripts etc. It even inspired me to research more about the Devil's Prayer. [Personally I enjoyed climax leaving the reader to interpret Siobhan's next steps which may disappoint some readers. (hide spoiler)]

Overall, an absolute addictive fast paced thriller which succeeds in keeping the reader on the edge right from the beginning with unpredictable twists and remarkable narrative skills.
Highly recommended!! Can't wait to get my hands on his other works.

A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.

A thriller that has it all.

The synopsis gives a good idea of what you'll find. It's definitely a psychological thriller as Siobhan finds herself on a real mind f*ck of a journey in learning about her mother and how her mother's decisions have directed the path of Siobhan's own life.

And if that wasn't all.... something's not right with her mother's grandkids.

The story doesn't end with this book but I felt like it reached a good stopping point. A place to catch one's breath before beginning the next chapter. For both the reader and the characters.

Thank you to the publisher for a free copy of this book and holy moly do I hope the next book is coming out soon! This one was riveting.

The Devils Prayer is a dark, macabre, religious, psychological thriller, a real page turner that I couldn't put down!! Like Dan Brown, we have a cat and mouse game of religion and murder that skips from the 13th century to the present day and is chock a block full of facts regarding the history of monasteries and Catholicism that makes me wonder no more, why Catholics have so much guilt and shame.
Imagine your child has been pulled out of a swimming pool and is unresponsive, despite the heroic attempts at defibrillation by paramedics. You call out to God for help and miraculously your prayers are answered, but what if the Devil answered instead?
Denise Russo is a naive single mother to Siobhan. Out on her birthday with her friends, she is attacked and hard used, and left paralysed. The Devil offers her a deal, her life back in exchange for the souls of her attackers. If she defaults, then he will take Siobhan's soul as payment.
Skipping forward many chapters so as not to spoil your enjoyment of this book, Denise leaves home and becomes a Nun. She starts to research ancient scriptures and books that mention The Devils Bible in an attempt to stave off the threatened Armageddon that involves her family.
You simply must read this book!! It has been so well researched, yet it's not dry and dusty like other books that deal with the history of religion. It is part Dan Brown, Raiders of the lost Ark and Scott Moriani in my opinion. It is a fast paced read that can induce fear, read with the lights on if you are of a nervous disposition and the violence can be startling but necessary to convey the sense of evil that is being fought against. The book ends abruptly and I do hope that's because there is a follow on, or I will feel extremely cheated!! Amidst all this religious fervour, there are also parables and messages about the destruction and death of humans and the Earth that we are inflicting by our selfish behaviour, a sense of we need to be Eco- warriors in order to appreciate what we have and not destroy our children's futures, which was a nice touch.
I rated this as a 5 star read and I heartily recommend this book. Thanks to NetGalley for a marvellous read.

After the death of her mother, Denise Russo, Siobhan needs to understand what caused her to vanish six years earlier, and finds herself caught up in a nightmare centuries in the making. Traveling to the convent in Zamora where her mother lived, Siobhan is in danger from the moment she arrives, and it is with great difficulty that she is able to access her mother’s final written confession. Reading it, she learns of a terrible betrayal that led her mother to make a deal with the Devil, risking Siobhan’s soul if Denise didn’t hold up her end of the bargain. As disturbing as all that is to Siobhan, other discoveries made in later parts of her mother’s confession are absolutely horrifying… as is the unfinished task her mother begs her to complete.

The Devil’s Prayer is unlike any book I’ve ever read; this historical horror thriller has it all. The historical aspects of the book are based on actual events that occurred in the 13th century, and the locations mentioned actually exist—a bonus to any readers who are also history buffs. (Go here to see photographs and read information about the locations mentioned in the book.) Gracias’ historical research is excellent, and the masterful blending of fact and fiction makes this story even more chilling.

The novel ends with a bit of a cliffhanger, but the point it ends on felt like the perfect stopping point, in my opinion. Don’t let that dissuade you from reading this fascinating novel. It’s my understanding that a sequel is in the works, and that’s a good thing because there is plenty more story waiting to be told.

The Devil’s Prayer is an excellent read, and superbly written. I recommend this one highly… add it to your reading list!

I received an advance review copy of this book courtesy of the author and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

I am grateful for the preview copy provided for this review.

This one of very few books I knew warranted a full 5 stars. It has just about everything.

Reportedly inspired by a documentary, it starts with history told with the same detail as Umberto Ecco's THE NAME OF THE ROSE and the pace of THE DA VINCI CODE. All of this ties in nicely with a very current suspense story.

Possible Spoiler Alert" The only thing it would seem to lack is a real ending. Instead, it leaves you with the a very strong hope that there will be a second installment (hopefully coming after you have been able to argue whether the the movie was better than the book.

***This book was reviewed via Netgalley***

The Devil’s Prayer by Luke Gracias is a brilliant series of nested stories recounting two generations of one young woman’s family. The mother who disappeared for decades, only to turn up dead in Europe. The two orphans raised by their grandma when their mother vanishes. The history of the Devil's Bible. Three stories and countless lives tied together by one elusive, powerful document.

The first story follows Siobhan, elder daughter of Denise Russo. After her mother's death, she embarks on a journey to Spain, where her mother had lived in self-exile as Sister Benedictine. There, Siobhan acquires a book her mother had written about the circumstances of her life.

Into this, in a brand-new voice and tone and style, we follow her mother's confessions of terrible crimes, the tearing treachery of close betrayal, and a deal brokered for vengeance. A third layer threads through Denise's Confession, telling the history of Armaud Almaric and the creation of the Devil's Bible. Yet another tone and style make up this innermost story.

I love that Gracias utilised three different tones/styles for each of the nested stories, making them unique in themselves. Unlike many books with nested levels, or A plot and B plot, I enjoyed all three levels, looking forward to each change. Usually I have one storyline I look forward to, and the others I simply tolerate. Not here! Description flows well, often in a lazy pleasing fashion, such as the one below-

“It is the prerogative of night, when thoughts, like relentless waves, break on the impressionable sands of the mind.”

Many points in this tale gave me pause to think, most often about the truly despicable depths to which humanity can sink. Denise’s ordeal at the hands of her so-called friends made me feel physically ill. People can be so vile to one another. Many moons ago I trained to do forensics anthropology. I wasn't able to pursue that career goal as planned, yet I have many times found myself grateful for that fact. I would have burned out long ago. Denise's story brought a lot of those memories back full force.

Denise’s story takes a turn for the bizarre that briefly left me wondering if she were perhaps schizophrenic, and that it passed on to the elder daughter. It was a nice theory while it lasted, but later evidence seems to have put paid to it. There’s no overt horror. Even the Devil is a gentleman. There terror generated by the human element, and plenty of psychological suspense to keep the reader guessing. There's a subtleness to this story, with hints of Stephen King’s Needful Things, and a healthy dose of Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child, and The X-Files.

My biggest qualm is the ending. Two of the three story threads resolved, but Siobhan's wasn't. That thread just begs a sequel and I really want to know what happens next! Does she accept her mother's challenge, or turn her back on it? If she does pursue things, how far will the red monks go to stopping

🎻🎻🎻🎻🎻 Highly recommended if you like historical fiction, books like The Historian, Shutter Island, or books by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child, or David Gibbons. Also, if you enjoyed the shows/movies The Exorcist, Premonition, or The X-Files

A historically and spiritually intriguing work, "The Devil's Prayer" is one of the best of 2016. I can already visualize the lines of people clamoring to see this on the silver screen. This book has the potential to be another "DaVinci Code" type of hit, if only the author retains his screenwriting authority. I enjoyed the style of the novel , the way it journeyed between ancient Papal times, and then back to the present, where Denise, the nun's daughter, was on the run from those trying to keep an ancient secret buried. Denise's story itself was a fascinating tale, almost enough for its own book, but cleverly interspersed to tie in the past, and link it to a very daunting future for her daughters. Amazing historical detail among such interesting descriptions of religious archives, with buildings, monasteries, and Australian scenery painted before the reader's very eyes, drawn you into this book, so much so that you never want it to end. I highly recommend "The Devil's Prayer", as well as commend the author on a timeless piece of literature that's enjoyable and gripping from the first page to the last.

The devil's prayer by luke Gracias is a horror read.
 nun commits suicide in front of thousands in Spain. In Australia, Siobhan Russo recognises that nun as her mother, Denise Russo, who disappeared six years ago. 

In search of answers, Siobhan travels to the isolated convent where her mother once lived. Here she discovers Denise’s final confession, a book that details a heinous betrayal that left her crippled and mute, and Denise’s subsequent deal with the Devil to take revenge. In the desperate bargain Denise made with the Prince of Darkness, she wagered Siobhan’s soul. 

As Siobhan discovers the fate of her soul, she learns that hidden within the pages of her mother’s confession is part of The Devil’s Prayer, an ancient text with the power to unleash apocalyptic horrors. 

And now her mother’s enemies know Siobhan has it. 

Can Siobhan escape an order of extremist monks determined to get the Prayer back? Can she save the world from its own destruction? 
This is a fantastic read. Very cleverly written with brilliant characters. I would love to see this as a movie. To see the church and halls ect. It would be great. Highly recommended. 5*. Thanks to netgalley for the arc.

Luke Gracias describes his novel The Devil’s Prayer as a historical supernatural horror thriller and it delivers on all that. With undertones of Dan Brown and the De Vinci Code, it starts off running with the suicide of a young nun in Spain. Siobhan Russo recognizes her mother, Denise, as the dead nun. Her mother had unexpectedly disappeared six years before leaving her sister and Siobhan in the care of their very religious grandmother. Now Siobhan feels that in order to have closure and understand why her mother abandoned her, she must travel to the convent in Spain. She finds her mother Confession, a book discloses in specific and graphic details the life of Denise, her bargain with the Devil, and the souls that have been wagered. The end of the world is in Siobhan’s hands now and her mother’s enemies are hers.

Born in India, Luke Gracias migrated to Australia and works in the Environmental Engineering field. He used his knowledge of Global Warming and environmental disasters to add layers of information to the story. His travels in Europe and research into the 13-century conspiracy between the Papal Inquisition and the Moguls continue to add to the story’s richness. Characters like Nostradamus, Genghis Kahn and various Popes come alive in his descriptions. The lines between fact and fiction blur as the story becomes more complex and alive.
This book is both graphic, and brutal and as such might offend the reader. However, these events are crucial to the story building tension. Many might also find the religious elements in the story upsetting to their own personal beliefs.

My only criticism of the book is that many of the secrets and mysteries are left unsolved and unexplained at the sudden end of the book. I can only hope that a sequel is published soon.


This is not usually the type book I read and at times the violence in it was difficult to read but I was hooked by the storyline. Just be warned beforehand.

I received a copy of the book from NetGalley and the publisher Australian eBook Publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review.

What would you do if the ones you trusted turned on you? What would you do if your way of life was taken from you? What would you do if the Devil offered you a way to get back what was taken, would you sell your soul?
This book had me at the first paragraph, I really enjoyed reading it. It's a tale of betrayal, revenge, regret, and redemption. It gave me pause to think what I would do in that position if I would have the strength to carry on and fight the battle. The history sprinkled through the was well done it, I even learned some things. If I had any complaint it would be the ending. I kept getting closer to the end having less and less to read and I wanted more. I really did like the ending it just left it open and I really hope the author continues the story.

I started reading this book late one night and really only got part way through the 1st chapter, I laid it down and didn't pick it up the rest of the week and didn't think much about it. Then Friday night I picked it up started reading it and couldn't put it down, I ready until my eyes would not stay open and then I woke up Saturday morning and did nothing else until I was finished! I love reading but it's a been awhile since a book had me so obsessed that I couldn't put it down. This book has EVERYTHING.

It starts out with a nun running from what seems to be a cult of monks, only to hang herself before they can grab her...then we find out she went missing from her family 6 years prior, this is where I was hooked. One of Denise's(the nun) daughters is given information and a chance to find out why her mother went missing, the stories within the story are amazing, Denise's Confession takes you on an emotional journey for sure. What would you do for your children? would you make a deal with the devil? There is mystery, betrayal, horror, thrills, chills and along with all that are historical facts and places written in so that you aren't always sure what's fact or fiction...this book is well researched and well written, I definitely recommend it for anyone who likes thriller, mysteries, or historical fiction, what a plus to have it all in one book. Thank you to Luke Gracias and NetGalley for giving me this book for an honest review! I can't wait for the sequel!

A great read.
I didn't know what to expect when I started this book but it soon pulled me in.
This book had everything History,suspense,horror and supernatural tones.
It reminded me of The Da Vinci Code its a well researched book.
Read it well worth it.

Thank you to the Author Netgalley and Publisher for a chance to read this book.

Book – The Devil's Prayer
Author – Luke Gracias
Star rating - ★★★★★
No. of Pages – 294

Cover – Spooky!
POV – 3rd person, and 1st person diary entries
Would I read it again – Yes!

Genre – Horror, Historical Fiction, Contemporary, Diary, Revenge, Religious, Devil


** COPY RECEIVED THROUGH NETGALLEY **


WARNINGS: Murder, violence, suicide, rape, self-flagellation



Wow! The first thing I have to say is: please bear with me because I'm a bit speechless after literally just finishing this book.

I have always been a major historical nerd. From true history, conspiracies, myths and legends, I love everything about the mesh holding history and religion together. I've studied ancient lands, secret societies and read about them numerous times in both fiction and non-fiction. Nothing packed a punch like this one.

If you're looking for a mystery, then this is the one you want. Forget Dan Brown. He can read this and eat his heart out, because THIS is the one you want to read.

Intrigue, murder, a little gore, betrayal, revenge, religion, the Devil and so much more. But, it doesn't feel over-saturated. In fact, this story folds together seemlessly, weaving the tales of Amalric, Denise, Siobhan and Zachary together into one tangled web of trickery, deceit and danger that had be hooked right from the get go.

Right from the Prologue, I was engrossed in the story. That never wavered once, as we were introduced to each character as and when it became appropriate. The writing was equal parts direct, dramatic and yet effective in portraying the immediacy, the intrigue and the path leading from one mystery to another.

And can I just say a huge “Thank you!” to the author. It's one of the rare times that I've come across a book that uses a lot of foreign text/language and actually offers translations, without expecting me to be an expert linguist.

In terms of presentation – A+. I mean, from the cleverly placed and contained font variations, used for reasons that mean we recognise what we're about to read – diary entry, note, foreign term, landmark – based on the font used. The chapter headings and the use of diary entries that are so clearly marked out for me, meant that I never once got lost in time or place. I never had to turn back and double check what year/time I was reading or who I was reading about. It was all so perfectly clear, without having to spell it out.

The attention to detail within the historical research and the respect and sympathetic approach to the more mythological and creative license aspects of the novel were incredible. As a history buff, I'm often infuriated by those who come up with implausible theories or conjectures for what “might have” or “could have” happened. Nothing in this book felt false, fabricated or even that far out of the stretch of reality. Everything was rooted in fact, science, religion and history, so much so that I quickly lost track of what was read and what wasn't. I didn't care, because it all felt real. It all felt as though every single thing in this book had really happened and I was just another version of Siobhan, reading it in a copy of someone else's Confessions.

At first, I was engrossed with the mystery of it all, then the story of Siobhan's search. It was all so captivating and had endless possibilities for what might happen next. Then she began reading the Confessions and I became completely spellbound by Denise's story, which had the biggest emotional impact on me. The idea of a <spoiler> quadraplegic committing mass murder at night <spoiler> is not only brilliant, but the perfect alibi and revenge.

When it comes to characterisation, I feel like I personally knew Denise, Siobhan and even the Devil, for a short time. I was so enthralled by this world I had been led into by the hand that I didn't want to let go. I had learned to love and feel protective over Denise, who had suffered so much in her life, but always fought against the injustices of the world to keep her daughter safe. I actually think I bonded more with Denise than anyone else in the story, sympathizing, feeling each emotion she felt, and searching for the same answers she sought. I learned to appreciate the subtle strength in Siobhan, to read this information about her own mother and doubt it, then begin to trust it and rediscover a piece of herself within the story. And the Devil – well, he was a refreshing take on the concept of the Prince of Darkness. Neither too benevolent or too horrific, he was simply a man with a means to an end, exploiting whatever opportunity came along, creating a few of his own, and finally getting what he wanted. As he always knew he would. The instincts and the affection that he showed within certain elements of the plot were surprisingly captivating.

~

Overall, this was an incredible foray into binding historical mystery with a modern day twist. While leaving me wanting more, there wasn't one thing about this story or the writing that I didn't love to pieces. There was action, adventure and a whole lot of mystery. And, what I really loved out of all of it, was the focus on the mother/daughter relationship that ebbed and flowed as Siobhan read her mother's Confessions, learning who her mother really was, what she'd done in her life and how all of it had been done to protect the daughter she loved more than life itself.

If there is a next book – and I seriously hope there is, after that ending – then I will be first in line to get my grabby hands on it. I can't wait to discover a little more about Jess, the enigma, and see what kind of adventure lies before Siobhan, now that she's learned all she needs to know to get started.

To be honest, there's probably a whole lot more I wanted to say about this, but I'm still processing, still grieving for the end and readjusting to my plain, boring life, that I don't think I would ever be able to find the words to express it.

With plenty of intrigue, murder and mayhem, love and loss within these pages, I'll be eagerly awaiting a time when I can come back, feeling like it's the first time all over again, to immerse myself in the world between the covers one more time. I don't doubt that each read will show me something new that I never noticed before.

~

Favourite Quotes

“Like most people, I prayed the hardest in my time of need. My prayers were head by the Devil.”

“I felt a part of my life was robbed from me. Forgiveness was not an option. The time had come for the blood-letting to start.”

“Strangely, with one murder and abduction, the only thing that I felt guilty about was the petrol I hadn't paid for.”

“My romantic soul had died months ago, but tonight I laid it to rest.”

“Religion is like a knife: in the hands of a surgeon, it heals, but in the hands of a murderer, it kills.”

Thank you to NetGalley and to Australian eBook Publisher for approving me to read and review this book.

I was pretty much hooked when I read the synopsis and I couldn't wait to get my hands on this book. Believe me when I say, it really didn't disappoint. I am quite a fan of historical books (in case you hadn't guessed) and this has a lot of history, religious history and it does go back to the Crusades. When I say there is graphic content, there really is graphic content and definitely goes into a lot of detail.

Siobhan's mother went missing 6 years ago and suddenly commits suicide in Spain in front of 80,000 witnesses. She gets given her mothers bible and in the back is a key. Siobhan decides to go to Spain to get answers as to why her mother disappeared. She ends up reading her mothers confession of the why's, what's, how's and when's. Siobhan has a lot of questions and she is finally learning the truth about what happened.

This book for me has left me with a lot more questions and I am really hoping that there is going to be a sequel as I would love for those questions to be answered. Especially as I feel that Siobhan's journey has only just begun and so much more needs to be done.

Luke Gracias has done a fantastic job with his debut book and I can't wait to read more of his work.

I'm going to give this book a 5/5 rating, it was brilliantly wrote and the plot seriously has me hooked. I have literally just finished the book and I'm still asking questions.

I grew up Catholic and for 13 years (K-12) I went to Catholic school. This included the uniforms (maybe why I love plaid - weird), priests, sisters, a rather creepy but beautiful convent next to the school, and of course Religion classes. We learned the history of all religions and studied the scriptures with Jesus-themed coloring books and cheerfully illustrated Children's Bibles. But I always preferred the creepier parts of the Church and the Bible. As I got older and cynical, I was much more interested in the books left out of the Bible. If this is supposedly The Word of God, who gets to decide what to leave out? And why?

Luke Gracias has taken real history and some fantasy and blended them into this fantastic and rather horrifying story. I don't want to give too much away, since this novel is better if you go into it blind. The first scene is all I'll talk about: a chase through a remote and inaccessible convent and the small Spanish town near it. It's exciting and leads us on a journey through evil - both human and supernatural.

There are elements of supernatural but they are not the focus. There's a great deal of secret Church texts and mysterious doings in centuries past and those are integrated with the present day story so well that I wanted to dig more into the writings and how they come together in what is our real world. It was not what I was expecting - but it's better than that.

Siobhan Russo's mother disappeared six years ago. Leaving her and her younger sister Jess to be raised by their grandmother. Siobhan tried to create an explanation for why her mother left, but nothing she tried to comfort herself with was anywhere near the truth of why Denise Russo vanished.

The Devil's Prayer is Luke Gracias' debut novel. A gripping mix of horror, suspense, intrigue, a touch of the supernatural, and a female protagonist whirled into one stunning novel.

Denise Russo was having the time of her life. Newly engaged, celebrating her 28th birthday surrounded by her closest friends, and making a birthday wish that turned out to come true. Just not in the way she ever expected. But, that's what happens when the Devil overhears your wishes.

Her wish, that the night would never end turns into her worst nightmare. After a grisly "accident" that leaves her mute and a quadriplegic, Denise is again visited by the Devil, who offers her the thing she desires most. Revenge and justice. But the cost is her daughter Siobhan's soul. Six souls in six nights. Denise will recover fully, and lead a normal life with her daughter.

Only the Devil keeps intervening in Denise's plans. She is forced to leave her daughters, and run. And run she does, back to the Catholic church of her youth. Where she begins to unravel the story of the missing 12 pages of the "Devil's Codex", an ancient manuscript written by another person who sold their soul to the Devil.

Flipping back and forth between Siobhan's present and Denise's past, all written in a diary given to Siobhan at the memorial service for her mother. In the diary is the details of the last six years, and everything Denise has done to help prevent the Devil return to power is unfolded.

I can't go into great detail, because there are so very many points that are essential to the plot, and I don't want to spoil this book entirely. But it's a great read, and the wheels are turning to make it into a movie already. The book is a bit like The Name of the Rose and DaVinci Code, but a touch less conspiracy theory and more grounded in researchable, verifiable fact. The historical characters in the book are real people, the Codex Gigas is a real book, and Gracias weaves his tale so deftly that the line between historical fact and modern fiction is blurred. The prose is wicked sharp, skillfully teased into something that is much bigger than what is written on the page.

If you're a fan of Dan Brown, Stephen King, The X-Files, etc...you'll find this book enticing. Historical fiction fans, those who like fast paced action with a female protagonist will also enjoy this story. There is so much more to it that I haven't even begun to touch on with the review, it really needs to be read. And, hopefully, soon, watched. In the meantime, keep an eye on Luke Gracias' Instagram The Devil's Prayer to see pictures from the historical places described in the novel, and visuals of the movie!

I received a review copy of the book from the author in exchange for a fair review.

The Devil's Prayer
Luke Gracias
Publisher: Australian eBook Publisher (February 18, 2016)
Publication Date: February 18, 2016
Sold by: Amazon Digital Services LLC
Language: English
ASIN: B01BXR4838

Well, this was a startling read. Very much reminded me of Umberto Ecco's The Name of The Rose. Gracias' writing has that same filmatic quality with the powerful, but not overly detailed descriptions, especially with reference to historical persons or places.

A quite ingenious combination of historical, psychological, and horror mystery thriller, Devil's Prayer surpassed any expectation I may have had. It's just plain clever, well written and executed.

The seamless interweaving of past and present, the strong characters and natural dialogue underpin a chilling, intriguing storyline.

My thoughts as I turned the last page: if this is the quality that his first book has reached, I'm extremely interested to see what he will produce for his next. I will definitely be reading his next book.

*I was provided with an ebook copy to review. My thanks to the author and NetGalley.*

Not since I read Rosemary's Baby Rosemary's Baby have the hairs on my body stood up reading a book in terms of sheer evil and devilry.
Like all good historical fiction The Devil's Prayer focuses on some real names and incidents in the past but when cloaked in the mysteries of the Catholic church and the trend towards End Times literature and biblical revelation the author has a real winner on his hands.
It reads well and is filled with tension from the opening dramatic mystery. A sense of menace and threat is sustained throughout the book which recounts the mission of a Mother who left her family one day and through her death leave a diary, a confession for her daughter to find and understand. In the hope that in death her first born daughter will continue the struggle against the Devil himself.
I am interested history and as a reflection on church history and biblical prophesy the author makes a thriller that is rooted in reality even when the events seem fanantical most of the time.
It spins a tale that is fiction but with enough truth in different guises to be embraced and the reader is transported to the Papal Bulls, Crusades and the Inquisition. Monks being threatened with being bricked up alive; brutality in the name of God and in a time with a dark sense of the Occult.
I liked the general mystery and threat from monks rather than spies, government agents or general assassins.
The sense of who can you trust and the fear for your life are also strong elements here. In between is a simple life of friendship and hope in the future that is destroyed by greed and jealousy.
Here the story falters at times but it is such an interesting plot that much can be forgiven.
A story where the Devil is a re-occuring character my not appeal to everyone but this isn't an attempt to undermine faith but to show that good and evil have always existed and it remains a human quality to chose their own path by the decisions they make. Satan is the author of lies so it is a great line when someone complains to the Devil for misleading them.
The book appears to leave much unresolved which points to the story continuing into at least another book. If it is as good as this debut then it should be anticipated with the same enthusiasm this novel should be received.

"This book was read in two days, couldn't put it down"

Dan Brow's Da Vinci Code meets The Ninth gate (The Dumas Club by Perez Reverte) meets Gillian Flynn's twists meets National Treasure (the movie) (yup, all that action and mystery!)

I have to say first that this is a genre that I enjoy (mystery/horror) but the mix of styles was pleasantly overwhelming.

The book is written in a very enticing way where you can flow through the pages and not realise that you've been reading for 2 hours straight when it felt like 15 minutes. It is descriptive enough to keep your imagination and excitement going but with not much detail that will make you lose the attention.

The characters are solid, and I feel like that they are what they are supposed to be. They are not deep in the sense that you don't really know their feelings, except the character of the "Mother". And in this story, you don't really have the need to go into deep characters.

I am glad that there is nothing out there regarding the writing style or format of the story so I will not spoil that for you, it's strange at the beginning but then you really enjoy it.

The story is PACKED with action (I really can't wait for it to be a movie) in the sense that there is always something going on in the different eras that take place inside the story.

Regarding the story, I have to say that it is very interesting and hooks you. You might find it cheesy, since at some point it's no different than similar stories (regarding the devil), but there's always a twist. I loved the build-up the author made regarding this point, and the story just keeps changing/morphing into one giant WOW.

I am really happy I went with this book, and can see it as a NYT best seller in the action/mystery genre for a while. I recommend it if you're not easily scared or if you enjoy good thrillers. But beware, there are some strong themes such as Sexual violence.

If I could change anything about this book, it would be the cover. It gives you more of a feel of a "satanistic mystery" novel.

Noooo!!! It's over!?!? I want MORE! This was definitely one of the best books I've read this year. It was fast paced, intriguing, and had great lore. The first half was like a torture porn version of Kill Bill and I loved it (and I hate torture porn and Kill Bill, ironically). It had such a satisfying sense of revenge, yet that was balanced by a touch of angst and mystery. It all worked.
Then we get hit hard with the historical fiction elements. Think a Dan Brown novel, but with better writing. Much better. The tale is unveiled in a clear, yet enticing manner. There's always a risk in tonal shifts like this that you might lose your reader, but Gracias manages to avoid this by linking these two sections by a continuing the sense of mystery. My only slight complaint about the book does come in this segment, though. I think that some of the history is repeated a bit too much. For example, we learn the history of the Devil's Bible like three times, once in prologue and later in this historical segment. It felt unnecessary. Honestly, I think it would have been better to drop the prologue altogether. We relearn all that information in the last 100 pages or so and I just kept thinking "I've already read this". But honestly, that's such a small issue. Obviously I think it's small, or else I wouldn't have given this 5 stars, something I VERY rarely do.
I'm very much looking forward to the sequel of this and highly recommend it to anyone to finds the synopsis interesting. But, do heed the trigger warnings. If you have problems with violence, skip it. But if you can accept that these aren't real people and it's just a work of fiction (Seriously, I hate this stuff in movies, but this is just text on a page. If I can do it, you can do it.), give it a try.

**I received this copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**

Thanks to the author and NetGalley for granting me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.

I like my torture books with enough torture and gore to make me cringe. This book, to a certain extent and in certain areas throughout made me very happy; however, it is not solely torture, as you can see from the premise given. The Devil’s Prayer presented us with a rollercoaster of themes – history, romance, horror/gore, violence and abuse among others.

Following the death of her mother Denise Russo, who abandoned her two children a few years ago with no warning, Siobhan Russo travels across the world to the convent where her mother lived. In search of answers, she is given a book with her mother’s confessions. There, Siobhan learns of the horrors her mother went through and her subsequent deal with the devil in order to take revenge on those who wronged her.

For the historical aspect, this book was very well-researched. I like when authors take the time to research before writing a book. It gives me the sense that they are truly committed to the success of their book and will work hard to produce it rather than give a lackadaisical attempt.

However, toward the end, the history became a bit overwhelming and took away from the plot. I found myself simply reading the words just so I could move forward to read the actual plot. Lots of history in there that I didn’t much care for, but I do understand why it was filled with this much information. The author wanted to present us with all this history to make the story more believable and to leave us wondering where history ends and fiction begins. The history was a fundamental part of the story, but I disliked history class, always have and always will.

The other parts were really well done and I was hooked. I won’t give details, it’s better to find out on your own.

Really shocked me- not sure what I was expecting, but I read this every night until I was done. A cross between a search for the 'truth', a mystery, some paranormal stuff that I didn't expect.
Really well written, the prose moved quickly and engaged me. I generally skip over violence and did so here, there are some instances of it that it was hard to expect from the narrator.

Her story comes in the form of a diary, and I must say, what a writer- amazing recall and detail for episodes so far in the past. Very captivating and almost Shakespearean in the level of tragedy. Maybe a little Rosemary' Baby as well.

There are some questions about how the guys in red always managed to be right there, and never seemed to need a wallet, ID, money, tickets for travel and all the other realities of modern life, but they were really great bad guys and I think I just figured out who streamlined their travel.
Fun in an unexpected way.

I could not put this book down. What a roller coaster of a horror story.

We start off the book with a monk, Herman the Recluse, in the thirteenth century. He has been condemned to death by being walled up alive. As a way to escape this horrific fate, Herman says that he will write a book “filled with human knowledge that would glorify the monastery forever”. The monks agree, thinking this could never be done, and allow Herman to try. By the end of the night, with a little prayer to the Devil, it had been completed and would be known as the Devils Bible.
After seventy years of the Devils Bible being hidden away in a trunk with a key, it was finally opened, to discover that 12 pages in the back were missing, the “the Devils Prayer”.

After a nun commits suicide, Siobhan discovers that it was her mother who, six years ago had suddenly disappeared, with no goodbyes. With only a note left to her by her mother saying “Come to Zamora. Tell nobody”, Siobhan sets out to uncover the truth about her mother; why she had disappeared and from what.

This is a story about betrayal, revenge which had led to rage, guilt, and then heartbreak. There are some great horror scenes, and gore throughout as well.

Warning-some trigger words and actions throughout: rape, sex, drug abuse, torture, suicide, and murder.

I received a copy of this book through NetGalley for an honest opinion. My thanks to Luke Gracias and Australian eBook Publisher for the opportunity.

Soihban's mother disappeared six years ago without a trace. Now she gets news that her mother has been living at a convent in Spain and has committed suicide. So against her grandmother's wishes she travels to Spain to try to understand what happened. This story is more about her mother's journey and her day's coming to terms with her mother's pact with the devil. This was a very engrossing story and I am hoping the author continues the journey of Soihban.

Compelling. Bound to evoke deep thoughts about the subject of “The Devil”. Believe or do not believe but read this book. A well-crafted tale offering some factual accounts from history which by no means offer proof of there being such an entity as the devil, however the details offer provocative thoughts of the subject. Anyone who follows the news will associate some of the offerings from this book of recent events such as fires, unprecedented weather events and even certain religious related findings and perhaps the prominence of never ending wars in the name of religion which have been raging for many centuries. Mentions of Hilda of Bingen who few have heard of and Nostradamus, a more recognizable name. But the historical facts are easily checked and verifiable. This author has done a superb job of reintroducing a religious figure whose title seems to be less bandied about these days. Check the website offered by the author at the books end. A fine work worth the investment of the time to read, with an engaging plot and likely to remain in the reader’s thoughts long past the finish.

A gripping thriller that sucks you in and keeps you turning pages. I love the characters and plot twist. The story was very well written and intriguing. It all began with an unfathomable and heinous act that tears 6 friends apart. When Denise suddenly leaves behind everything she ever loved and embarked on an unusual journey ,she didn't know if she would ever see her family again. Six years later Siobahn and her sister Jess, received the news that their mother had committed suicide and so begins Siobahn's journey to uncover the dark secrets her mother hid.

This is one of the best books I have read Filled with so much research in history and mixing it with a fictional family was a brilliant read. You just can't put this book down ! It really make's you wonder what really happens behind a churches door along with good and evil! Fantastic read !

Interesting book which held my attention very well. I think the story has not been finished and lends itself to a follow up book in the future.

This was one of the best horror novels I've read in recent memory.. Mr Gracias kept me glued to each page & I couldn't put it down for anything! He literally made it feel like I was right there, watching the horrors unfold! I'm definitely looking forward to reading more work from this delightful author!
Absolutely amazing!

Gripping and all-consuming, this book could easily be the next blockbuster movie. I found myself totally absorbed in the mix of the suspenseful present day story line and the well researched history. I read this book in 24 hours, it was that good. A blend of The Da Vinci Code and The Omen, it left me wanting to know more... more about what happens next, and more about the amazing history detailed in this book.

This was a remarkably well written and well researched novel. Although it is fiction, there is a feeling of reality about it that grabs the reader from the onset. If you go into it with no preconceived notions you will be captivated and stay with it to the end...and wonder if there will be a follow up. Thanks to Net Galley and Australian e-book Publishers for an ARC for an honest review.

This book was full of suspense and surprises. It's not the typical genre that I read, but I really enjoyed it.

When a nun commits suicide in front of thousands of people, Siobhan recognizes the woman as her mother, Denise, who disappeared 6 years ago. Siobhan embarks on a journey seeking answers about her mother’s disappearance. Halfway across the world at the convent her mother joined she finds her mother’s journal in her locked confession box. The journal is addressed to Siobhan explaining why she disappeared without a trace and also includes the copies of a portion of a book, The Devil’s Prayer, that has been kept secret for centuries. The race is on when Siobhan discovers she is being followed by monks in bright red robes. Is her mother’s elaborate story believable? Siobhan has to find the truth before its too late.

Let me start by saying this book was phenomenal. It started off a bit slow but once it gets going be prepared to spend the rest of your day encaptured by it. I kept my description very brief because this is the kind of book that is better the less you know about it. Definitely one of the best books of 2016! I wanted to give it 5 stars and the only reason I didn’t was because I wanted more at the end.

I was very surprised by this book. A fun, thrilled ride with a lot of twists and turns. Honestly, better than most of Dan Brown's recent books.

Review: THE DEVIL'S PRAYER by Luke Gracias

A convoluted and complex mystery-suspense-thriller, THE DEVIL'S PRAYER will keep readers on tenterhooks wondering "what next?" With supernatural, religious, and historical threads interwoven, this thriller will appeal to a widely diverse audience. The author's affinity for delineating both visual scenery as well as heartfelt emotions, and ability to effect reader's suspension of disbelief, combine into an exciting thriller with serious overtones.

Filled with fiction interspersed with non-fiction, this novel takes you through a wild ride. Seeing a nun hang in Spain and realizing it is her long lost mother. There is nothing left to do but find out where she has been and what has transpired since leaving her family without a word.
Thus starts a story that is filled with dark mystery, and both good and bad forces that push it forward.
An interesting read that once started is hard to put down. Plenty of twists and turns and edge of your seat adventure. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and would recommend it.
5 Stars

The Devil’s Prayer by Luke Gracias is a very exciting and chilling read! I made the mistake of thinking I would read a LITTLE of it before going to bed then could not STOP! I finished in the early morning hours, I HAD to finish the book! It pulled me in from the beginning and would not let me go. A nun is chased by red robed priest that are trying to kill her for sneaking a peek at a book that is locked away in a secluded room. She ends up killing herself in public before they can get to her. She wasn't always a nun. She ran away six year prior and told no one she was leaving or why. She left two kids and her mother. Why, well this is what the book is about, oh boy, it is soooo devilishly good! It is full of mysteries, revenge, gruesome violence, (most of the violence the reader really cheers for-Yes, yes you will!), paranormal activity, suspense, intrigue, creepy happenings, and so many other things I can't mention because I don't want to spoil it for anyone. This is a book for the paranormal, horror fan out there that needs a good book to read. This is a book for someone that needs a change of pace. Wonderful plot and lay out. Full of surprises!!! Wow. I would give this more than 5 stars if possible. The characters are so unique and .... creepy, interesting, different, and yet real, all of course except the paranormal ones ... and they seem to linger in the readers mind. I will be watching for book 2, he HAS to write book 2!!! Thank you NetGalley for letting me read this amazing, chilling, horrifying book that kept me up all night! I loved it!

Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

I was at first a little anxious to start. The synopsis sounded fascinating, but, Siobhan recognizing her mother, a nun, that committed suicide? Deals with the devil? An explicit content warning? That small bit of doubt soon flew out the window as I started and didn't want to put the book down! This book was definitely a roller coaster, but so worth it. I hope this story continues; I want more

This is a genre I am very familiar with. I can't tell you how many books I have read this year about the Illuminate, the other secret societies and the Catholic Church. While some have been quite good, this book is beyond that. It is exceptionally well written, blending fact with fiction and with enough twists and turns to make it whiplash worthy!

When a nun commits suicide in front of thousands of people, Siobhan Russo recognizes the woman as her mother, who disappeared six years ago. At a memorial service for her mother, Siobhan is approached by an elderly priest. Father Jakub has something for Siobhan, her mother's Bible. And then he is gone. As Siobhan begins to read, she finds the book is more of a confession, written for her and also a request to finish what her mother started.

As we bounce back and forth between centuries, we along with Siobhan hear fantastical stories of the Devil and of God. You can't have one without the other. Did her mother kill herself? What happened in the past that drove her to make a deal with the Devil for Siobhan's own soul?

This is a brutally raw and ugly look at history and what people have done in the name of religion and what continues to go on. How far would you go to exact revenge for unspeakable acts done to you or your loved ones? For Denise,she made a pact with the Devil. Wagering her own daughter's soul. And with the Devil is anything really as it seems? What will this deal cost her in the end?

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and actually spent 8 straight hours reading it and then looking up all of the historical places and people and events mentioned in it. Fascinating look at history and religion through the ages.

Thank you Netgalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read this. I'll be keeping it.

The Devil's Prayer is a fast-paced, intriguing suspense and a powerful, raw, chilling read. There is much brutality, and those who tend to be sensitive to that should avoid this book. The brutality however was not gratuitous (there simply for shock value), but necessary, even integral to the story. When Siobhan recognizes the face of a nun who committed suicide in front of thousands in Spain as that of her mother who disappeared six years ago, she is compelled to learn her mother's story. As she discovers the truth of what happened to her mother, she realizes that she too is in danger, and things are not as they seem. The book tells of the never-ending war between good and evil (from the 1200's until today), and beautifully weaves historical fact with fiction and suspense. For those who believe in greater powers, we are reminded that souls are constantly being sought by both sides, and it is all too easy to be seduced by the evil one.

I was immediately drawn into the story and literally could not put it down until I finished it. How often does that happen? Not very often for me - WOW!!! I can easily see this being made into a movie. I highly recommend it!

Many thanks to NetGalley for providing me with a copy of the book to read and review.

If you are someone who loved The Da Vinci Code, this would be right up your alley... and this is so much darker ... so get ready to be taken on a ride like no other!

I think I expected something along lines of Bron/Kuzneski - I was wrong but in the best way possible. I got this & read it within hours - could not put it down at all! Very well written & with a deliciously dark side to the story. Just can't wait for the sequel!

I greatly enjoyed reading this. I was immediately pulled in, and before I knew it I was halfway through the book and the sun had set hours ago. Well paced, emotional, and filled with mystery and adventure, 'The Devil's Prayer' is an excellent book and a must read!

Usually don’t read stories like these, but it was definitely an interesting read. It kind of pulls you in from the first page and you want to find out more. It was a fast pace and an intriguing read that was well written. So if you get a chance check it out you may be surprised at how really good it really is.

Thoroughly enjoyed this book.
Very well researched, depth of characters, and an entertaining story.

A little bit of the Monkey's paw in it but still very unique.
I spooked myself several times and have found myself thinking about the book even when I'm not reading it. What a great story. I can't wait for the sequel.

The author did a great job of mixing historical facts with fiction.
I couldn't get this one out of my head throughout the day.
Definitely pick this one up!
See my full review on Amazon.com

5 Stars

What a spectacular book!!

I wasn’t sure when I picked this book out. But I was most pleasantly surprised.

A woman learns of the death of her mother – a suicide – in Spain. That she happens to be a nun from whom she and her sister haven’t heard from in years adds to the mystery. She flies from Brisbane to Spain to visit her mother’s grave. There she learns that there is more to the story. At much risk to herself, she manages to recover her mother’s diary titled “A Confession.” Whilst running from the bad guys, she reads the diary.

What follows is a heartbreaking and tense story of the mother’s missing years, as well as what came before. The diary takes us before the youngest sister was born and through her (the mother’s), last days. It is an astonishing read.

A woman is raped, beaten and left for dead. She turns out to be a quadriplegic, unable to even speak. But the devil makes her an offer she can’t refuse.

This starts out a chain of events that is impossible to avoid. Her daughter, now an adult herself must follow the path set out by fate and circumstance.

This is a remarkable book. My only criticism is that we are left hanging at the end. I can only hope that there is a sequel. Please!!!

A very big thanks to Netgalley and Australian eBookPublisher for granting my wish to read this book.

Thank you for the opportunity to read this book. I expected this book to be good but wow I was not expecting this. An absolutely brilliant book. The storyline was fantastic the characters gelled together. Some scenes where a bit harsh but they needed to be believable I suppose. I would definitely like to see this on the big screen. It's one of those books that you will always remember. I would love to see it continue just to see what Siobhain does about Jess. It is without.a doubt the best book I have read this year, and I will recommend it to anyone who will listen to me.

Spine chilling and disturbing, this is a book that can not be put down.
It has a complex plot and it is very fast paced. Although there is some gore and explicit situations, this is a book that I would recommend.

The Devil’s prayer is a story that will reel you in and possibly leave you with nightmares, and sleeping with the light on far into the future.

If you are a lover of dark mysteries with a religious undertone, conspiracies and secrets, and tales that tip into the supernatural, then this will most definitely sate your appetite. But also be aware that there are some disturbing scenes regarding rape and murder that may offend the soft at heart.

The author definitely displayed an intriguing versatility; writing what were essentially two stories in one, which converged into a mind blowing and spectacular climax. You need to be careful when making deals with the Devil, as ultimately, he will expect to collect.

Overall, The Devil’s Prayer is a powerful mix of history and modern day events that hold the world’s survival in its grasp. When the Prince of Darkness is involved, there’s certain to be deceit, mayhem, danger and death around the corner.

My one criticism is the cover. This book has so much to offer, but the cover doesn’t do it justice or make a reader want to pick it up and read the blurb. Other than that, a highly recommended read that is sure to entertain.

The Devil’s Prayer by Luke Gracias
Sometimes you pick up a book and don’t know why. It’s not what you’d normally choose, it’s premise is a little different than you find interesting to stick with. Sometimes you just turn to page one and find you don’t want to stop till you finish. And then you might try to think how you would recommend it, what with the title and all.
I chose this book as an advance copy for my opinion. I don’t know why but I did and after finishing it last week I find I’m still thinking about it. Please don’t let the title slow you down.
The book starts with a chase. Cardinals chasing a nun who ends up committing suicide in front of thousands of people. And that’s just the beginning. On the other side of the world Siobhan Russo realizes this nun is her mother who has been missing for six years. Siobhan travels to Spain in the hopes of discovering something about her mother’s life since she left.
There is a journal. Siobhan finds it and begins reading about her mother’s life, the betrayal of her friends, her torture and the months spent paralyzed. During those months Denise Russo makes a deal with the devil and in that deal she wagers the soul of Siobhan.
We spend time trying to understand how Good lives alongside Evil. How there can’t be one without the other. We spend time in the 13th Century, in ancient monasteries and among historical figures of the time who inflicted incredible evil on the world.
I know this sounds like “hmmm…” but this book is a rousing page turner, written with an ease of style that will put you there with Denise. And it will leave you thinking long after you regretfully turn the last page.

I was enthralled by this book from the very first page and I was upset when I finished it, that's not something that happens very often, given the amount I read.
The story is fast paced, gripping and very well researched but it also drags you in on an emotional level, you feel for the main character and what happens to her.
This was a thoroughly good read and I can't recommend it highly enough.
The only problem I have is wondering if or when there will be a second book, but one thing is for certain, if there is I'll be first in the queue to buy it.

Gripping and enthralling book, sort of like the Da Vinci code. But this book can definitely hold it's own against the Da Vinci Code. Extremely well written and filled with history and knowledgeable details, it was hard to put this book down. I can definitely see this book as a movie. Damn good reading!!

This is a fascinating and gripping story. The story opens with a nun being hunted through the streets of Zamora, Spain before killing herself and then a young woman, Siobhan, who learns that her long lost mother was that nun. Siobhan goes to Spain to try and get some answers as to why her mother disappeared. What she finds is her mother's Confession which is the bulk of the book. Written to her daughter to explain who she was and why she did what she did. Denise tells a heartbreaking, harrowing tale that led her to the convent in Zamora.

I didn't check the veracity of the author's historical parts of the story but fact or not, the author wove a fantastic tale of good and evil. Of those who follow the devil, those who fight him and those who fall onto his path unwillingly. Told in first person diary form (for the most part) you easily get involved with Denise's life and all of her suffering and trails. The well set pace keeps you on the edge of your seat and Denise delves further into the Devil's web trying to get justice for herself and protect her daughters.

The publisher compares this to a Dan Brown novel and while I can why they would that is unfair to the Devil's Prayer. Devil's Prayer is not about unearthing clues hidden in time to stop the bad guys. Prayer is about one woman's life, the choices that she desperately made and the hope she had in unraveling her mistakes. Written with sympathy for her it makes you wonder just what you would have done had the shoe had been on your foot.

There ending does get a bit heavy on the historical facts surrounding the why's and where's of the Devil's Prayer but with the finale of the book a cliffhanger, it's easy to tell that it is setting up for the daughter, Siobhan to be the main character and heroine for the sequel. Be prepared going in, there are scenes with violence, rape and revenge. Denise's didn't end up a handmaiden of the Devil in an easy way.

Siobhan’s mother disappeared without a trace six years ago. She knew nothing about her whereabouts, until a mysterious priest visits her, bringing news of her mother and her mother’s Bible. He told Siobhan that her mother hung herself in a bell tower during the Semana Santa procession in Zamora. The priest also tells her that her mother was a Catholic nun in Spain. Siobhan finds that her mother’s Bible contains a key and a note telling her to go to Zamora, the place where she died.

Siobhan goes to the isolated convent in search of answers. What she finds is quite a story. By following a mysterious and hidden passage in the convent, she finds her mother’s journal written to her. From it, she learns how her mom became a quadriplegic, how she recovered from the irreparable injury, and how and why she became a nun. Between reading the journal, Siobhan finds she, herself, is constantly running from danger.

This book has it all. Part Rosemary’s Baby, part DaVinci Code, this book mentions the Nag Hammadi Scrolls, the Codex Gigas and many other texts. The plot is a whirlwind carried out with realistic characters who visit some incredible real sights like the Sedlec Ossuary and Zamora during the mysterious Semana Santa. The action never stops! This is an exciting read. It would certainly make a great movie!

I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review.

I went into The Devil’s Prayer with few ideas about what the story was actually about, beyond the synopsis provided. I think that’s the best way to begin with the book, because one of the strengths of this book is the suspense that begins on the first page and doesn’t let up the whole way through. I began to expect the unexpected and go along for the ride, and I’m so glad I did.

It did remind me of The Davinci Code in regards to general themes, although it is very different. Parts of the story are told through traditional narrative, but the majority of the story is told via a journal left by Denise Russo to her daughter, Siobhan, who takes possession of the journal after Denise publicly commits suicide. As such, we don’t learns as much about Siobhan as a character as I might have liked at this stage, except what we learn from Denise’s journal, although we do go on the journey with Siobhan as she uncovers things about her mother that she never knew.

This book is a thriller, through-and-through. There are terrible things that occur to the characters throughout - many times, I found myself wondering whether things could possibly get worse, and they did - but it does help to set the tone for everything that follows and it was quite confronting to read.

Luke Gracias has obviously done a lot of research into events and locations for his story. It is well written, fast-paced and engrossing. While the ending did seem a bit abrupt, with plenty of unanswered questions, there’s room for a follow-up book. Even if there isn’t, where the story ended is enough for the reader to fill in their own blanks, too, which is not always a bad thing.

Overall I thoroughly enjoyed The Devil’s Prayer. I rated it 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Although very different, this definitely reminded me of the "Da Vinci Code" combining mystery, thriller, history and religion.

From the theft of a lottery ticket, this swiftly moves to include remote monasteries, lost ancient texts, the Devil, Ghengis Khan, some brutal murders and a family secret. Despite this vast range, it still manages to feel personal! I enjoyed the way there were effectively two narrators - the life of the daughter plus the notes from her mother. Great plot, great characters.

Nothing happened as I expected it, and as for the end.....

I am not surprised there is a movie coming.

This novel has everything modern pulp fiction needs: a little truth, a little lie paired with sex and violence. Luke Gracias could very well write for brands like John Sinclair or Professor Zamorra (famous German pulp series).

The Devil's Prayer is a work of art that you can read well on a rainy Sunday to pass the time and just have a "fun ride". You do not want lobster and champagne every day, sometimes it has to be a burger and a cola.

And if next year a sequel should come out then I would look forward to it to see how this will continue.

Full review on GoodReads.

I received this book in exchange for an honest review via NetGalley.

Described as a historical, horror, thriller this book is exciting, intriguing, fascinating with shades of Da Vinci Code (if you liked that you will like this). A nun being hounded by some monks in red robes takes her own life in dramatic fashion in Spain during Holy Week celebrations. The nun originally hails from Australia – herein the first mystery.

The nun’s daughter (Siobhan) residing in Australia makes the journey to Spain and becomes embroiled in the mystery.

I loved the way the mystery unfolded with letters written from the nun to her daughter and Siobhan’s efforts to try and fathom what the Confession and the Devil’s Prayer meant. You will learn of her mother’s involvement with the devil.

This is clever, powerful stuff, and with the promise of more to come. I would love to see this as a film.

I reviewed this book as an ARC via NetGalley on my kindle.

Meticulously researched . Completely absorbing, I could not put it down.

This was an excellent book , I couldn't put it down , well written and good research done on all historical facts. So interesting look forward to more from this author

This book is perfect for fans of Dan Brown and Ben Hopkins. The characters are complex. The story is intriguing, full of suspense and mystery! There are some dark scenes, but they are so important to the plot and the understanding of character motive. The details show just how much thought and research the author put into the story and absolutely draw the reader in. After that ending, I hope there is a sequel coming. I highly recommend this story, I could not put it down.

The story in this book is fascinating and I do believe it. I don't think the amount of history it records was necessary. I would recommend this book.

Very good book. Well written and wonderfully paced. Intriguing from start to finish! I have this on my 2017 list for one of my book groups ( the second group is too fluffy).
Highly recommended for readers of dark, intelligent mysteries. Great read!

What a fascinating book. Throughout the book I kept wondering how much of the history is based on fact and how much on fiction, and although I am still not entirely certain, it was confirmed that many historical references had factual relations.

Personally I loved this book. The plot was brilliant and the way its many layers were unravelled during the book was very entertaining. I must admit at times I felt parts of the story were relayed a little too factually 'she did this, and then she did that, which resulted in this.....' but I can't fault the author on this. Any other approach would have ended up in a 1300 page book that would have lost its draw.

Again some of the historical revelations are both intriguing and have relevance on where we are as a human race. The prophecies depicted in the sketches (Hieroglyphs of Herrod, I think it was called) were thought provoking and a little depressing when you realise that the outcome is surely inevitable, it's just the timeline that we have some control over.

The war (and dependence / co-existence) between good and evil is a clear thread through the book and often you are faced with not knowing who is playing who. In fact this is the unanswered question in the end, who is manipulating who. Spoiler alert, but I need to put this out there…….. If Jess contributed funds for Siobhan’s trip, then surely everything that happened prior to Siobhan returning was what Jess wanted, otherwise why would the spawn have paid for the trip. Ah man, what a way to end the book, so so may questions left unanswered, but yet you aren’t upset or left feeling badly done by.

This Historical Thriller is a magnificent rendition of the Phropecy of the Apocalypse. The Conspiracy Theory is terrifying. Ah! Revenge! Sweet revenge but the consequences can sometimes outweigh the "sweetness" by far.

The main characters are Denise and Siobhan. The story takes place between 1994 and 2014.

Siobhan is a Journalist, living with her grandmother and her younger sister Jess. Her mother, Denise disappeared six years ago. It's Easter week in 2014 when Siobhan witnesses the terrible tragedy of her mother's suicide. She is then approached by a stranger with her mother's last wish. Hence, she embarks on a journey where she retraces her mother's steps in the form of her Confession.

The confession is dated from 1994 when Denise was a newsreader. She still lived with her mother who helped with the care of Siobhan. There was a strange and terrible incident which was then followed by some lucky breaks. She was engaged to Matt and things couldn't be better! Matt and her close friends organised a party for her 28th birthday in 1995 and she was bursting with happiness. She had another unexpected lucky break and this was where everything changed.

She had an accident which resulted in the most heartbreaking outcome. At the same time, she discovered that her friends were not who they appeared to be but she was helpless and unable to take any steps! She received an unexpected visit one night and was tempted into making a bargain. In desperation, she sealed the bargain and her fate with it. The sequence of events was bloody and brutal. She got what she wanted but one false move could cost her the life of the one who meant the most to her. It was too late when she discovered that she had been tricked but there was no going back.

Denise tried to put all this behind her to give Siobhan and Jess, her new born, a good life. Eleven years later, her life was turned upside down, yet again. Only, this time she was on her own when facing the difficult and dangerous situations leading up to that fateful day in 2014.

Whilst Siobhan is reliving her mother's past through this confession, she finds that she too is in danger and ends up having to run from the same mysterious sect of monks. She learns about the prophecy and the role that she has to play. Has she been tricked too?

Although this is a historical fiction, it recounts some of the natural and political disasters which have actually taken place. The historical aspects are very well documented and the characters are very well portrayed. It's full of violence, suspense and immoral behaviour but nevertheless a compulsive read. It's a good reflection on what drives the human behaviour.

I like the way the story flows flawlessly from one generation to the next. The analogy between physical quadriplegia and the way the earth progressively degenerates towards a form of quadriplegia is impressive. Human greed is the downfall! Be careful of what you ask for, especially from the Devil! The only negative from my point of view is that there are too many dates towards the end, otherwise a fabulous read. One of the best historical thriller that I have read this year.

I received a complimentary eARC and the views expressed are my personal opinion.

First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, Luke Gracias and Australian eBook Publisher for providing me with a copy of this book, which allows me to provide you with this review.

Luke Gracias offers readers an interesting novel that seeks to mix the foundations of religious belief--both the goodness of a god and evil of its great nemesis--with the human understanding of bartering for a particular outcome. By placing these themes within a modern setting, the reader is better capable of understanding the story and relates with ease. After an eerie preface, the novel opens in a small Spanish town, with one Sister Benedictine trying to locate The Devil's Bible, which contains a prayer that appears to hold much importance. After copying a few pages of the prayer, in complete secret, Sister Benedictine is able to hide it away with a journal of her own within her convent before being chased by a group of monks wielding swords. Trapped in a bell tower, Sister Benedictine takes the only path she has and ends up hanging from the bell's rope, in an apparent suicidal act. On the other side of the world, Siobhan Russo learns that her mother has died in Spain, after abandoning the family for six years. While Siobhan is curious as to what happened to Denise Russo (the actual name of Sister Benedictine) all those years ago, she is unsure what to expect. Siobhan's sister, Jess, wants nothing to do with her mother, though Siobhan feels she owes it to the entire family to explore what might have happened. Travelling to Spain, Siobhan is granted access to a vault where her mother held some key documents she willed to her eldest daughter. Siobhan receives the journal, which her mother called The Confession, and agrees to read it in order to learn more about what happened all those years ago. This confessional journal dates back to the early- to mid-1990s, when Siobhan was a young girl. Denise Russo was a single mother who tried her best to raise a daughter she loved more than life. After a traumatic event, Denise made a deal with a truly diabolical man, who forces her to trade Siobhan's safety with a pledge to commit numerous crimes. Feeling that she had no choice, Denise is led down a path of truly alarming proportions, but never strays from the promise she made. As Siobhan reads of these events and the eventual birth of her sister, all becomes a little clearer while also extreme muddled. An ancient sect of red-clad monks remain on the lookout for Siobhan, forcing her to remain in hiding and return to Australia with a secret that could tear her family apart. Her arrival opens new and horrific possibilities, just as Gracias keeps the reader in suspense with a major cliffhanger. A wonderfully crafted novel for those who love an evolving and dramatic narrative that takes twists as it tries the reader's personal faith.

This being the first piece of writing I have ever encountered by Luke Gracias, I was unsure what to make of it. While the opening few chapters took a little time to grasp me, by the time the story entered 'The Confession' section, I was completely hooked. Gracias pulls on many time periods and uses strong characters to tell his story, layering both the narrative and character development throughout. His use of strong religious history plays perfectly into the larger story and, should it hold some degree of truth, the reader must wonder about this darker side of religious acceptance. Whereas many will turn to the god of their choosing and make promises for specific results, could the same not be done in the face of a diabolical being, the antithetical deity? Exploring the role this character played in shaping history, Gracias forces the reader to shelve their preconceived notions and potentially accept that there is an evil pulse that is steering world events alongside the goodness of some Higher Being. The powerful and plausible story is accentuated with the lengths to which a parent will go to save their child and face the consequences of their actions. Told primary to convey the life and times of Denise Russo, the addition of Siobhan and, to a lesser extent, Jess, allows Gracias to paint an extremely disturbing picture while flirting with safety for those who are not entirely ready to let go of their belief in goodness.

Kudos, Mr. Gracias for this stellar piece of work. I cannot wait to see what other ideas you have percolating for your growing fan base.

An intriguing and factual prologue that fed well into the first chapter. Vivid descriptions that were well thought out and more than likely heavily researched.

A good mix of authentic, believable characters particularly Siobhan and Jess's differing reactions to the news at the start of the book. The descriptions were in-depth and at times brutal, but very well written.

The plot didn't go in the direction I had thought, and I did find myself questioning if I had missed something. But when looking back after finishing I appreciated that the plot flowed well.

The ending was quite abrupt and ended with a shock but this fit with the rest of the novel.

I would definitely recommend The Devil's Prayer to readers who like The Da Vinci Code and similar books.

The Devil's Prayer is labeled with a genre' of historical fiction but also horror. I will warn that this book is not for the faint of heart or squeamish. Luke Garcias weaves a gripping story with ties to the 13th century, and the present, with horrifying detail.

The story begins with what appears to be the suicide of a nun in front of thousands during a holy celebration.

The narrative is then given over to the nun's family who reside in Australia, a daughter, actually 2 daughters who were abandoned years before. The oldest daughter, Siobhan receives a visit from a mysterious stranger telling her of her mother's death at a church in Spain. The daughter takes it upon herself to visit the last place her mother was known to have resided after disappearing for years to try to find answers.

Visiting the convent Siobhan discovers her mother's diary and the story begins to unfold. Love, betrayal and a mysterious sect of monks who will stop at nothing to obtain that diary.

I will say I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and the history was intriguing. There were times that the book felt very slow, but every part of the story had a purpose in either character development or accounting for specific actions.

I will say that the ending of this book left me hanging, and obviously in order to complete the story there will have to be a sequel.

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

I really enjoyed all of the twists and turns of this book! I don't usually read a lot in this genre, but I'm really glad I did!
There is enough fiction to pull you in and with all of the history added in it makes it just a bit creepy to think "what if?".
With having a cliffhanger ending, I'm really looking forward to reading the second book and getting answers!
* I received a copy of this book through NetGalley. My review is based on my honest opinion of the writing and story plot line.

The Devil’s Prayer Luke Gracias

Stephen King meets Dan Brown in one of the best books I’ve read this year.

What genre is it?

Horror? Psychological thriller? Historical fiction?

Mix them up and you will end up with The Devils Prayer.

The book starts with a Nun running through secret passages, between an isolated convent and a hidden tomb, in an isolated area of Spain.

A short time later the Nun kills herself in front of 1000’s of people in a public square.

Meanwhile, Siobhan, a young journalist in Australia, has not seen her mother for 6 years. A knock on the door from the local police officer brings the news she has hoped never to hear. Her Mom is dead.

Siobhan makes a trip to Spain to see her mother’s grave, and find some closure into why she disappeared. She finds out her mother was the Nun who committed suicide so publicly and uncovers a journal her mother had left hidden for her.

The journal, called The Confession, describes a sequence of events starting in the mid 1990’s; including a horrific crime and the ramifications it has on the victim and its perpetrators, and explains what Denise has been doing since she went missing.

The Confession tells the story of Denise, a successful newsreader, a single mother living with her daughter, Siobhan, and her mother Edith. Following an accident in which Siobhan nearly drowns Denise’s life begins to change.

Some years later Denise gives birth to a second daughter Jess; but between the near drowning of Siobhan and the birth of Jess things have changed drastically for Denise.

Eventually Denise begins to realise that she is central to events which she now has no control over. When she is approached by a mysterious Monk, who offers her help to find a closure and put things right, she has no choice but to leave and start a journey through libraries full of ancient scripture in an attempt to save those nearest her.

Disguised as a Nun with a vow of Silence she is taken around Europe to read and translate ancient scriptures ultimately trying to find the lost pages of an ancient book. The pages are The Devils Prayer.

This book is beautifully written and had me hooked from the start. I read it in 2 days and was left wanting more.

Luke Gracias eases between the two main protagonists as the main story is told with Siobhan, taking the lead character, reading her mother’s Confession, with Denise being the main character.

Gracias takes the reader through; family trauma, a horrific crime, and betrayal in Australia; to historical artefacts, ancient documents, Monasteries and Convents in Europe.

As the book raced towards the end I began to find myself thinking, “there’s not enough pages left to finish this story” I was right.

What a cliff-hanger.

Mr Gracias please don’t make us wait long till the next one please.

In the 13th Century, in order to save his life, a monk did a deal with the Devil, and as a result the Codex Giga, the Devil's Bible, came into being. It was lost for centuries, then rediscovered, but by this time, twelve pages of the original manuscript were missing, the twelve vitally important pages known as the Devil's Prayer.

It is said that one day a woman will give birth to the child of the Devil. And if this person ever gets his hands on the pages of the Devil's Prayer, then all Hell will be let loose on the world.

When the story opens, we are in the convent of Sancta Therese, a few miles north of Zamora, Spain. There, during the Semana Santa (Easter Week), a secret ritual is enacted, as it has been every year since the 1200s, but this time, at its climax, a nun commits suicide by hanging herself from the bell-tower.

Meanwhile, in Australia, in a world as different as it can well get, a young woman called Siobhan Russo is informed by a priest that her mother, Denise, who has been missing from home for six years, has committed suicide in Spain. That she was a nun going by the name of Sister Benedictine. And that she, Siobhan, must travel at once to Spain, to collect in person a message her mother left for her.

It turns out that Denise, the mother, had done a deal with the Devil years earlier, in order to get revenge and healing after she had been raped and left paralysed. This rape and its consequences form a vivid short story which stands out as rather different from the rest of the book, and after reading it we identify with Denise quite as much as we do with her now grown-up daughter Siobhan. At that time, the Devil had healed Denise in exchange for the souls of her attackers. But her dealings with the Devil had not stopped there. The Devil later brought the child Siobhan back to life after she had drowned in their swimming-pool.

But I am telling you too much of the story. Read it for yourself. It is brilliantly researched and replete with fascinating details. And don't be put off by all this about "the Devil". This is a very real, very evil, Devil, a Devil it is almost impossible to say No to - and as the author says in the book, "God and the Devil - one does not exist without the other." It is a story I shall never forget, and full of characters I shall never forget.

Started reading and didn't stop until I reached the very last word. Enthralling tale about a woman betrayed by her mother, but given a path to survival by that same, now-dead mother. I was enthralled by the imagery and tightness of the plot.

I'm typically not a big fan of historical fiction but I do love me some horror so I had mixed feelings going into this book. I'm glad that I took the chance. I didn't feel like i was being given a history lesson and the build up in plot was fantastic. Highly recommend.

I chose this to read as I loved the cover and the synopsis intrigued me from the start, The premise of the story is How would you feel if your Mum disappeared one day and you didn't know what had became of her until you had news she had died in an apparent suicide, Siobhan - her daughter sets out, to find the truth and to give her self and her family closure as to why her mum left them, but even she can not imagine the reasons why.
This was a roller coaster of a story, more thriller than horror but in the similar vein of the Omen.

Its a great read but does end rather suddenly so I'll have to wait for the sequel to be written and released.

Thank you NetGalley for letting me read this book

- ARC received from NetGalley for an honest review. Book synopsis - A nun commits suicide in front of thousands in Spain.... So begins one girl's journey to find the truth about a mom who abandoned her and her sister years ago. Anyone who loved The Davinci Code is sure to enjoy this book which seems immersed in the Church's history. It mixes fact and fiction so easily and makes you want to peak to see who or what is behind the female protagonist. It blends the now with the past so seemlessly. I really enjoyed this and look forward to continuing the journey.

Beautiful prose. I found myself almost envisioning an Botticelli painting as I was reading. There are dark themes, but that is evident by the title. I would recommend this book for fans of literary horror.

I received this book from Netgalley in order to review it.

Here it the blurb

"A nun commits suicide in front of thousands in Spain. In Australia, Siobhan Russo recognises that nun as her mother, Denise Russo, who disappeared six years ago.

In search of answers, Siobhan travels to the isolated convent where her mother once lived. Here she discovers Denise’s final confession, a book that details a heinous betrayal that left her crippled and mute, and Denise’s subsequent deal with the Devil to take revenge. In the desperate bargain Denise made with the Prince of Darkness, she wagered Siobhan’s soul. "

I found this book very easy to read and get into. The book flits between the story of Siobhan in the present day and her mum's story of how she came to become a nun. I enjoyed the story very much and feel very strongly that there must be a follow up as it very much left me hanging! I think that is why I didn't give the full 5 stars as I expected the story to wrap up by the ending but it in fact left me with more questions with answers which is not necessarily a bad thing.

This was not my normal type of reading but I found myself intrigued by the description. I did find the book to be a little heavy with all the references to various religious texts, scrolls, artifacts and such. However the story itself kept my attention and I am of the sincerest hope that there will be a second book so that I can find out how it all ends.

This book far exceeded my expectations. The attention to detail, the research of the History surrounding the story was second to none. I was captivated from page one and had to keep reading until I had finished. Without going into a description of the story I would urge readers to get a copy and read it for themselves. The end did leave me wanting more so hope there is going to be a sequel. It is a truly inspirational book. 5* plus wow,wow,wow.

This read was absorbing from the start to finish, with spine tingling suspense that left me with goosebumps.. It's been a while since I've read anything that had me clutching my seat..
A recommended read..

Excellent!!! Hard to put down. Brings an important part of history to life. While it is fiction, the research put into this book makes you wonder what really happened 800 years ago. The way the fictional characters fit into this story is absolutely genious.

Good Lord!

Wow where to begin, this is classed as a historical horror thriller, but it could very well have been so very true. I was gripped from the beginning of page one and didn’t actually put the book down until the very end. While frightening to some extent with its blood, guts and gore, it showed such detail and fervour that made you feel every location in its entirety right down to the dust in the air while on the periphery at the end of the world, waiting to see how it unfolds. Such detail and knowledge is rare in a book, mostly it tends to bore you with to much, but with this books storyline, you were involved and helped and nurtured to understand each situation before surprising you with the next turn of its scary, gory, yet brilliant events. So, all in all, it has amazing historical and religious detail, with an amazing yet clear writing style and so much depth to it. Simply marvellous to read. The only thing I could fault is the story ended quite abruptly, but, I guess, that leaves the rest to your imagination.

A review copy was provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Based on a thirteenth century conspiracy between the Mongols (brokered by a general of Genghis Kahn) and the Papal Inquisitor, Amaud Amalric - THE DEVIL”S PRAYER by Luke Gracias is, for the most part, a historically accurate thriller that borders on “horror story” due to its grisly depiction of rape, drug abuse, savage physical violence, sexual encounters, drug abuse, and an excursion into the supernatural, not to mention murder. (Definitely not a book for the faint of heart!)

Divided into four sections, the narrative takes us into the lives of three women, a mother (Denise) and her two daughters (Siobhan and Jess). On her 28th birthday Mom makes a wish that is granted by the devil but the results are not what mom expected and a second meeting with “old nick” results in another request from Mom, more promises made by the devil, and a developing situation that requires mom to “make a run for it” with the end result being that she becomes a Catholic nun.

Deftly weaving the tale between Denise’s past and the sisters present, Gracias takes us into the search for 12 missing pages of the Codex Gigas, a text rumored to contain an apocalyptic prayer written by a medieval monk that is addresses not to God but to the fallen angel Lucifer and supposedly has the power to unleash something akin to what you would find if you took the movies I Am Legend, The Road, Doomsday and Night of the Living Dead and rolled them up into one giant catastrophic event.

A plethora of secrets, fascinating historical information and the actions of the strong female characters keep the reader immersed in this tale.

An exhilarating roller-coaster ride of betrayal, revenge, unholy pacts, and religious mystery that rivals Dan Brown, Umberto Eco, Robert Masello, Stephen Marley, and Matthew Reilly.

A nun commits suicide in front of a crowd of thousands in Spain - in Australia, the woman's family grieve. Why did this woman flee her homeland and end up dead during a religious festival in Zamora. The woman's daughter embarks on her own journey to discover her mother's secret, a journey which puts her own life in danger, as the horrible truth is finally revealed.

A true page-turner that I could not put down - the ending ...... well ....

Dark thriller with religious history, modern mystery and all the suspense you could hope for. This book started off full blast and never stopped. Excellent intertwining of past and present; and edge of your seat action.

Siobhan is the oldest daughter of Denise Russo. Siobhan wonders why her mother has been gone for such a long time. She is raised with her younger sister by their grandmother. When she gets notice that her mother has died, she is shocked. Her priest gives her the mother's bible with a bookmark. It is a bookmark with a key.siobhan decides to find out more about her mother. Her journey is filled with mystery. She is told even on her trip not to find her mother.finally reaching the convent where her mother lived, she ass to see her mother's grave. She is saddened seeing her mother burning outside and alone as she committed the sin suicide. Due to the location of the nunnery and little transportation,she spends the night at the convent. She finds a room where the key opens a door among other doors that gives her a letter telling her about her mother's life and why she ended up at the nunnery. Her journey home is fraught with danger. Why. What made her mother disappear from the lives of her two daughters?

The author writes a suspenseful story with plenty of action and surprises. As you read the novel, you can't wait to see what will happens next! I hope there is a follow up to this novel as I want one!

Thank You NetGalley!!

I am such a geek for mystery books that involve religion (strong Catholic upbringing - if you've ever been to Catholic School, you'd understand) If you like Dan Brown - you will like this book.

This book did not disappoint. I really couldn't put it down and I love strong female characters.

This book got right into the mystery and I was intrigued as to what was going on. What would possess Denise to act like this, How can she live with herself? There are so many questions right up front and it just kept me wanting for more.

Great book, especially for lovers of the Da Vinci Code, Rosemary's Baby and The Omen. I liked the way the story jumped timelines the way it did and seeing the story unfold for Siobhan. Highly recommend this one!

The Devil's Prayer gripped me from the start, and refused to let me go. To say I devoured it would be an understatement. I sat, glued to the pages as I frantically dove deeper into this often horrifying, conspiracy and despair ridden world.

“It is impossible to hate someone...That is, unless you loved them once.”

As the story unraveled, it was like watching individual gears turn. Each had it's own design, but it wasn't until each began to spin that the story pulled back and you began to see the much larger picture. This wasn't the story of a lost daughter, or her mother's mystery. This was a story ages in the making, and the characters simply the pawns in it's telling.

“Like most people, I prayed hardest in my time of need. My prayers were heard by the Devil.”

I felt the anxiety with her as Siobhan read her mother's confession. I felt the disbelief, and the shock as I learned of her mother's actions. To feel so gratified by them, and so horrified at the same time was the dark magic of The Devil's Prayer. It left me feeling dirty, as if I had committed an ultimate sin just by my knowledge of it's words. Yet, despite that, I couldn't help but feel a sort of pain when it ended.

“It made me realise why some people stay in relationships they never want to be in, out of the fear of loneliness.”

That sums up my feelings for this book rather well. It was an amazing read, that felt almost like an abusive lover. Every time it hit me, it did something to make me let it back in my life, until there was almost a dependency that felt unhealthy. Yet, despite that, I would beg for more in a heartbeat. ~ George, 4.5 Stars

I have to admit this book scared me a bit which wasn't helped by the fact I was reading it late at night when it was cold and raining. I thought the author did an amazing job of weaving history and Catholicism in order to create this. Gracias obviously did tons of research not only evidenced throughout his story but also after it was over where he provides a note on some of the actual facts which influenced where the story went. It reminded me a bit of the Da Vinci Code in that the author combined reality with history in such an interesting way I kept finding myself on Google looking up places, stories and people so I could separate fact from fiction.

The only parts of the book I found truly hard to get through were the multiple rape scenes but as a woman I don't think it's possible to ever read a rape scene, even if needed for the story, and not feel like you're going through the experience yourself. As a mother I appreciated the sacrifices she made for her kids and the fact there was nothing she wouldn't do for them so that aspect I felt the author also did a good job of getting right.

At the end I myself wishing for a sequel because I wanted to know what the oldest sister had decided to do and if she was going to be successful. This was a book I could not put down no matter where my emotional journey went because Gracias keeps you glued to the pages.

The Devil's Prayer is exactly the kind of Book that inspires fear but at the same time piques your curiosity enough to explore the dark secrets of history and religion. A brilliant sensational read.

This tale is of stories within stories, that build up a history of human manipulation and mistrust (and I could add deceit and depravity).

Siobhan's mother disappeared six years ago and Siobhan has just heard that her mum committed suicide in front of 80,000 people during a religious event and that she was a nun when she did so.

At her mothers memorial service Siobhan is approached by a priest who brings her something of her mothers and tells her that Sister Benedictine asked him to pass them on to Siobhan.

Siobhan sets out on a journey of discovery to find out what her mum wanted her to know and what others want for themselves or to keep hidden.

Siobhan finds out what her mother lived through, from the age that Siobhan was four, until the present day. None of it is expected or ordinary. It is a long twisted story. Siobhan is periodically interrupted as she discovers the truth of her mothers life and has to take action to protect herself. Her mother has given her information and Siobhan must decide what to do next.

And, phew, what a wild ride that was! Totally absorbing and engaging. I certainly would read that again and recommend it. Particularly if you like historical/religious - good versus evil type tales.

Reminded me of books by Dan Brown, an author I enjoy reading. This is a well written thriller!

Classified as Historical Fiction and Horror, “The Devil’s Prayer” is not for the faint of heart. It also comes with Explicit Content Warning that says, “The Devil's Prayer is a historical horror thriller that contains brutality, rape, sex, drug abuse and murder. Readers may find its content offensive and confronting.”

Whew!!! That said, you might think that I did not like this book. I did, and for those who are into the historical fiction and horror genres, this is a very good book to read.

The storyline spans centuries beginning from the Middle Ages to modern day. Though this is a work of fiction, author Luke Gracias made it historically accurate and used very few artistic licenses. I am not going to write a synopsis. The Description below more than suffices. If I write more, I will be revealing the plot line.

Adrenaline pumping with some very gruesome scenes, sometimes, I had to close my eyes just to erase it from my mind’s eye. But, it did not make me stop reading the book. In fact, I was so interested in it, that I could not turn the pages fast enough.

Warning: don’t start reading this book at bedtime. You would want to finish it so you might lose a night’s sleep. Fans of Da Vinci Code, The Seventh Sign and The Omen will enjoy this book.

“The Devil’s Prayer” is Rated M for Mature due to violence, drug use and sexual content.

It's like finding undiscovered treasure! The first few chapters didn't grab me, but after that, it really took off. The intricate detailing and depictions in here are pure genius. This is a must-read thriller that is quite graphic at times and not for the faint-hearted. Now that Siobhan Russo knows her mother's story, there's just gotta be a book two in the works. I loved the whole good vs. evil and will be keeping my eye out for future books by this talented author.

WOW. This novel is incredible! From the very first page, I was hooked. The story is very intense and gripping, with little time for catching a breath. Not being religious myself, I am still vastly intrigued by the depth of research that went into this novel. I cried for Denise, and again for Siobhan. I found each character to be highly engaging, and their trials are not for the faint of heart. I found it to be utterly amazing, and I will be paying very close attention to author Luke Gracias now and into the future.

Gripping and a real,page turner. Will definitely look for this author in future.

Whew. What a roller coaster.

While ultimately, this is the battle of good and evil and what lies within a person, we first meet Herman the Recluse, who has been condemned to death by being walled up alive. As an escape, Herman says that he will write a book “filled with human knowledge that would glorify the monastery forever”. The monks agree, thinking this could never be done, and allow Herman to try. By the end of the night, with a little prayer to the Devil, it had been completed and would be known as the Devils Bible.

The story progresses from there to betrayal, revenge to rage, guilt, and then heartbreak.

I was already familiar with 'The Devil's Bible" from The Black Tapes podcast, so reading this felt familiar in an uncomfortable way. I will likely read this again, closer to Halloween, to fully get the creepy, horror effect it needs.

Thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to review.

This is an excellent book written as a story within a story, then within another story. It starts of at a pace as we follow a nun running for her life only to end with her taking her own life in front of thousands of worshippers. And that is just the first chapter.

Reading about her mother's life both prior to and after she became a nun, Siobhan goes on the run through Europe followed by the red monks determined to stop her revealing the story told in her mother's confessional diary.

As her story unfolds throughout the book the reader is presented with a number of twists and turns, each one a little more fantastical than the last but presented in clear and believable manner. Some of the action in the book can appear a little graphic however you will be caught up in the emotions of revenge that you will almost hearing yourself cheering on a little as the acts are committed.

The human and supernatural elements are well balanced and the only problem I had with this is it is left on a cliffhanger. This should not put the anyone off reading this book but should be held as a compliment to the skill of the writer. Hopefully the story will continue.

This book was a great read, it had a good mystery going for it and at times it was chilling.
I liked that we could read what Siobhan's mother wrote in her confession and it helped to build up the story.
I received my copy of "The Devil's Prayer" from NetGalley
Possible Spoiler Alert" The only thing it would seem to lack is a real ending. Instead, it leaves you with the a very strong hope that there will be a second installment (hopefully coming soon).

A mix of ‘Rosemary’s Baby’, the ‘Da Vinci Code’, ‘An Inconvenient Truth’ and an insomniac fueled night of Wikipedia, ‘the Devil’s Prayer’ is an interesting ride that I wish would have lasted longer. From the finely crafted revenge/torture scenes in the part 2 to the will she/won't she cliffhanger in the end. It’s oblivious that there is going to be a sequel, as this book mainly dealt with building a back story for the upcoming journey that Siobhan will have to go on, and I can’t wait to see what happen next.

Thanks to Net Galley and to Australian eBook Publisher (the author?) for offering me an ARC copy of this novel that I voluntarily choose to review.
As I do sometimes I checked some of the reviews of this book and I found that most people were really positive, and, interestingly, people who didn’t like it gave as reasons some of the same ones that made others like it. We all know nothing rules over personal taste.
The story, that it’s not straightforward to categorise (it has elements of thriller, of historical novel, of horror story with paranormal elements, even with religious undertones), is told in an interesting way. The story we start reading, after a brief prologue that hints at things to come, of Siobhan, a young woman who is given her mother’s Bible and a strange message after finding out she hanged herself in Spain, frames the main story, the confession by Siobhan’s mother, Denise. Siobhan follows her mother’s instructions and soon realises that many people seem invested in keeping hidden the mystery of her mother’s disappearance. For much of the book, Siobhan is just a stand-in for the reader, who gets hooked on the book her mother has left her as an explanation of what happened, and as we later learn, as a way of recruiting her into her mission. Siobhan experiences similar emotions to the readers, at times thinking the story is not possible, that her mother must have been unwell while at the same time finding it impossible to stop reading, in her case even when she’s in serious danger.
Denise’s confession is fascinating. What starts as the story of a single mother quickly turns into a thriller, where Denise is the victim of a conspiracy and with some paranormal help (yes, the devil of the title comes to the rescue, of course at a price) manages to get even. This part of the story, of greed, jealousy and friendship gone sour would make an interesting novel in its own right, although there are details that require some suspension of disbelief. The story eventually takes a moral turn and things get more bizarre (yes, even with the devil already on the scene). The nature of Denise’s family life comes into question and she has no option but to leave her loved ones without a word of explanation. She is recruited for a mission and as part of that we are introduced to a number of religious texts and historical facts of the XIII century that show a good research used in a very compelling way (although some readers did not enjoy it so much, but I’m sure others who love books such as The Da Vinci Code would appreciate it).
The writing is fluid and compelling, with some descriptive passages and some that offer moral lessons (especially about the role humanity has in destroying our environment, and about the cost of our wishes and desires, exemplifying the fact that actions have consequences) and a deep understanding of the texts and the religious questions discussed, without becoming preachy. At some points, especially when describing the texts, there is more telling than showing, but that can’t be avoided (and considering that according to the blurb, the author turned one of his scripts into a novel, it’s very well resolved). I’ve read some people who found the repeated used of long names (of monasteries and convents in particular) tiresome, although in my case, as a few of them were Spanish like me, I didn’t have much of an issue with it.
The story of Denise is completed within the book, but it ends up at the point when Siobhan goes back home and has to decide what she will do from now on. So there is some sort of resolution, but we are left at the beginning of another story.
Denise is an understandable and totally human character, who makes mistakes, who sometimes is confused about her emotions, who wants to believe the best of people but is sorely betrayed. She is faced with terrible decisions and if one tries to put oneself in her shoes, is not easy to know what one would do. Does one really always have to choose between two loves? Perhaps. We don’t have much chance to get to know Siobhan, other than as an ersatz reader and a girl who, like her mother, will pursue the truth even at the cost of her own safety. I hope we’ll be given a chance to get to know her better soon.
I enjoyed the book, both the intriguing and gripping story, and also the background of history and the fascinating documents described. I didn’t find it scary but it is a book that makes one think about one’s decisions, about the world and about what we would be prepared to sacrifice for those we love. And it’s impossible to put down.

Oh Boy.

I finally finished The Devil's Prayer and I still can't stop my heart racing with excitement. It has been a while since I had read a book this good. And boy was it good!

The Devil's Prayer is a historical fiction, and even more a thriller is it's way. It opens in Spain, in a convent, with the death of a nun. The first pages set the tone for the whole book, as instantly the reader has many questions, such as What are the pages she stole from an ancient book? Why did she steal them? Why would monks of her rank be after her? and Why would she kill herself as a result? We then learn that the nun had two daughters, Siobhan and Jess, and of the two Siobhan is the one after the truth about her mother's unusual death. Without going into details, and not wanting to spoil the book for you, Siobhan flies out to Spain, to pay her respects to her mother's body and maybe learn the real reason why their mother abandoned them a few years earlier to become a nun, and why she decided to end her days. When she gets to Spain, what Siobhan finds is more than what she had bargained for, as she retrieves her mother's confession and learns her ties to the Devil and the importance of the Devil's Prayer.

At the beginning of the book, I could not help but draw some comparison and similarities with Dan Brown's Da Vinci Code, but as I read more, the Devil's Prayer stood on it's own. Luke Gracias did a fantastic job with his debut novel, offering an interesting and pretty well researched background on religious belief, while exploring the coexistence of Good and Evil, of God and the Devil. He masterfully shapes the story throughout various timelines, both during Sister Benedictine's time (who is the mother of Siobhan), as well as way back to the 1220s. Although the book started a bit slow, the pace quickly picks up once we enter the "Confession" part of the book. The Devil is revealed and with him, human's love for a good bargain. The narrative and its characters are strong, and Gracias masterfully uses historical timelines to tell his story, and draw the reader in suspense with a major cliffhanger waiting for them at the end of the book. Throughout the book, one has to put aside his/hers preconceived notions about Good and Evil, and foremost about religion in itself and embrace, even if it's just as a work of fiction, the possibility that "maybe" as we pray to God, the Devil also listens, stirring along dreadful events for which we just have no explanations.

If you love historical fiction, fast paced suspenseful stories, mysteries, religious conspiracies...then you will love The Devil's Prayer. I could not put it down from the moment I picked it up, and I am glad I was offered the opportunity to read it and review it fro you all. I am very impressed by the details and the research Luke Gracias has performed for his story, and I cannot wait to read more from him in the future.

Thank you to NetGalley, author Luke Gracias, and Australian eBook Publisher for an ARC of The Devil’s Prayer by Luke Gracias, in exchange for an honest review.

The Devil's Prayer Kindle Edition
by Luke Gracias
I received an ARC in return for an honest review.
A marvelous, creepy combo of I Spit on Your Grave, a Katherine Neville mystery and Umberto Eco.
Siobhan's mother abandoned her 6 years ago, leaving nothing behind to explain why. That is until a nun hangs herself in front of thousands during a Holy Week. That nun, who spent the last 6 years under a vow of silence in a Convent that makes Opu Dei look like a trip to Disney World, was her mother, who left behind a confession explaining a secret and offering Siobhan a choice that no one should have to make.
Garcia is a brilliant storyteller, giving us the most complex character, Denice – the monther, through her own written confession. And at every turn and every twist, we need to ask is she telling the truth or did her experience send her mad? Is she a reliable narrator? Is the choice she is forcing her daughter to make real?
Siobhan herself is less of the central character than her mother and her sister, Jess is more of shadow, but with the dark story of Denice and Jess's possible father, this doesn't matter.
Mr. Garcia also masterfully links signs, symbols and prophecies with events that happened in the late 90's and the early part of the 21st century. He clearly is highly informed in terms of occult culture, literature and traditions throughout the world. He somehow combines Revelations, Saint Malachy, Nostradamus with ancient Chinese traditional prophecies and compares them with the natural disasters and astral event that have taken place in the last 20 years. Dan Brown had a similar and in my opinion, a far lesser talent in combining art and Joseph Campbell symbological studies to create a mystery. Where Mr. Brown's always leads forward in a clear understandable line with a professor in place of a dectective, Mr. Garcia does keep us guessing as two women, one alive, well and confused the other, her dead mother who believes that she must stop the end of the world through a singular sacrifice.
With historical and occultic information, we are lead on a journey across the world. And left with a cliffhanger.
I could honestly do a dissertation on the religious symbolism and history alone, but I'm getting far too intellectual in this review.
The chase is exciting and you will always be left with the question of is it real or is it insanity? Is there a Devil and what effect does he have on this world?

5 out of 5
https://www.amazon.com/Devils-Prayer-Luke-Gracias-ebook/dp/B01BXR4838/

This book knocked me for a loop. It was excellently done and kept my attention from start to finish. i could not put it down.

The book was well written, and the characters well formed. The way that modern day and history were mixed was entertaining and engaging, More of a thriller than a horror book, the storyline fills you with the emotions of the lead character, Siobhan on her discovery of all the secrets her mother, Dianne, has left behind in the 6 years that she has been missing, including how her mother sold her soul, and how Siobhan is now in danger because of the Devil's Prayer she is in possession of.

In a tone reminiscent of Dan Brown and Elizabeth Kostova, the book will leave you wanting more, especially the final chapters of the book. It doesn't feel like there has been closer, but I hope that the ending trailed off because there is a sequel in the works.

Overall, a great book, with a lot of interesting twists and turns.

Siobhan is set on a journey to find her mother's past, to discover the reasons she left her 6 years ago and the truth about her sister. Her journey leads her from Australia to Europe and Africa where she has a roller-coaster ride of discoveries which opens up her own past as well in a battle of good versus evil.

It's well written, it has speed and keeps begging for your attention.

Truly inspirational. By the definitions in this book i am one of the damned. It shows the depths a mother will go to to protect her young. With talk of the end of time the graphics with in the story are extrardinary

The Devil’s Prayer by Luke Gracias is a powerfully written book about the devil answering prayers. It has strong female characters that are intriguing. I was surprised that a book about a desperate nun's bargain kept my attention from start to finish.

There is disturbing violence but it contributes to the advancement of the story. Because it was a page-turner, I gave it five stars.

This book was well-researched and filled with esoteric information.

I received a complimentary Kindle copy from Australian eBook Publisher and NetGalley. That did not change my opinion for this review.

Link to purchase: https://www.amazon.com/Devils-Prayer-Luke-Gracias-ebook/dp/B01BXR4838

The Devil’s Prayer – Luke Gracias

A compelling story to rival The Da Vinci Code in its complexity and attention to historical detail. What starts as the story of the suicide of a missing mother quickly evolves into something else. We learn that Siobham, the now grown up daughter of the missing mother, was saved from drowning at a young age by a mysterious stranger who reappears frequently as the Mother’s passed down story unfolds. It turns out the roots of the story are in the thirteenth and fourteenth century and involve a long missing book known as The Devil’s Bible. Determined to uncover the truth about her mother’s death, Siobham’s quest takes her from Australia to Europe and the Middle East to Malaysia with help and hindrance from other mysterious priests and monks also keen to uncover or prevent the uncovering of the truth about The Devil’s Bible, as she gradually puts together the complex reasons for her mother’s original disappearance and death. A very enjoyable tale with plenty of action and suspense and a plot that you will find enthralling. I found myself unable to put this book down and was always wanting to read “just one more chapter”. A great read.

At first I thought this book would be predictable. I said to myself here comes another Angels and Demons type of book but was I mistaken. I found this book to be very intriguing. I'd often look up a lot of the history mentioned in the book and the author was right on point. Great research but yet it wasn't a history book. I don't want to spoil anything but this book is definitely worth the read. Thank you Netgalley this was one book I was unable to put down. The Devil's Prayer was a very good book.

Chilling, highly engrossing, rip-roaring tale. This one had me awake nights, reading way past my bedtime!

When reading this I was transported through words to some of the most beautiful churches imaginable., had my heart broken, became truly terrified. I just wish the story wrapped up (i.e. finished at all) or that I knew book two was on its way.

This book had me skimming the first few pages. I wasn't too sure. After chapter 1, I was hooked. I love this book so much I'd rush through my responsibilities just to get back to reading it. I did have to go back and reread that first chapter. Bravo!

"The Devil's Prayer" has many of the great things that reminds me of a classic horror novel or movie: A suicide by a nun (in a faith where suicides automatically go to Hell), a Giallo film (where the focus is an investigation into killings that cannot be explained), a little bit of Dan Brown (like the secret societies reminiscent of "The DiVinci Code"), and of course the Devil. The action revolves around the suicide of a nun and her two children whom she abandoned suddenly when the oldest was in her teens. The mystery of her demise becomes the main focus of her oldest daughter, Siobhan, and a diary the explains most everything. Most of this novel flows well and moves quickly and is highly entertaining. It is highly entertaining, and like some of the others have said, if you go into this without knowing too much about it, you will most definitely enjoy the speed of the story unfolding. The only real flaw that I see is that the last twenty or so pages turns into more of a history lesson than plot movement, and the story kind of grinds to a halt because he is trying to spend the time tying up the loose ends. In the end, it is an enjoyable, fun story and worth the time.

I received an ARC of "The Devil's Prayer" from NetGalley for an honest review.

The Devils Prayer by Luke Gracius is not only interesting, but it never fails to surprise. At a time when many novels follow predictable, well-trod paths, Gracias keeps readers guessing right up to the end.

The tale begins in Spain with delicious, haunting, cinematic prose. Readers first meet Sister Benedictine as she self-flagellates during the festival of Maundy Thursday. One might believe the action takes place centuries ago; however, it actually takes place in the present. The author employs his copious knowledge of history to build realistic, authentic activity that is sure to draw readers into the action. Soon, desperate to evade red monks who are stalking her, the mysterious Sister Benedictine is off on a nightmarish mission that revolves around a Bible and a key.

Soon, the plot drops out of the frame and readers are taken to Australia where they meet Siobhan Russo, a young woman struggling to come to terms with the disappearance of her mother, many years ago. Then, Siobhan finds that her mother has passed on, at a convent in Spain. At a memorial for her mother, an enigmatic priest hands Siobhan a Bible with a key in it, and Siobhan embarks on a search for answers.

The rest of the tale bounces back and forth between Sister Benedictine’s history and Siobhan’s quest for truth. Why did Siobhan’s mother disappear without a word? What does this all mean for Siobhan and her sister? Not only are the girls in danger, but their souls are at stake.

The characters are well-drawn and likable, and the settings are extremely interesting. The convoluted, intertwined plot lines work well together to create a pleasant read.

Unfortunately, the superior prose that graces the beginning of the novel stagnates toward the end with a patch of authorial intrusion that does not serve to propel the plot and comes off as a history lesson. Luckily, it can be skipped without losing anything. The tale ends with a teaser that portends a possible sequel that will be welcomed by many readers.

A well researched book which much to my surprise found totally addictive.
The age old good against evil and human greed but most importantly the lengths a mother will go to protect her children.
Shades of Dan Brown and the DaVinci Code come to mind.
A real page turner my only disappointment was the unsatisfactory ending what happens next . I just hope there is a sequel.

A Compelling Novel packed with thrills galore
An electrifying novel which will appeal to a very large audience of readers. And deservedly so.
Reminiscent in style to "The Da Vinci Code" and with a few vague similarities to the original "The Omen" film, Luke Gracias draws on real historic facts to construct a fictional novel which is a delight to read. From the title you might suppose that this novel is purely a demonic horror story. Not at all. This novel is about much, much more. The book contains an element of several genres mixed together brilliantly in a highly readable, educational and appealing way.
I would describe it as essentially a novel within a novel. In real time we are kept engrossed by a quest by Sister Benedictine's daughter, Siobhan, to learn the truth about her mother's disappearance some 7 years earlier. The daughter's quest is fraught with danger and thrills galore. She succeeds in getting her mother's "confession" which was written by her mother in the hope that one day her daughter would find and read it. It contains Sister Benedictine's explanation of the reason for her disappearance (she deserted two young daughters leaving their Grandmother, Edith to bring them up) and the circumstances of her "suicide". The confession explains to Siobhan that her mother, after making a binding agreement of her own free choice, was effectively deceived and her disappearance was a consequence of events over which she had lost control. She contends that predestination determined her experiences, actions and the rôle she had to play.
Initially dubious, Siobhan reads in the confession a tale of dreadful misfortune: of innocence, the greed of others, murder and vengeance. But often vengeance comes with a price attached and this was the case for her mother.
The novel has many themes but the one which stood out for me was the damage caused to the environment by mankind and the consequences thereof. The author's background is as an activist on environmental matters and his knowledge and concerns for Mother Nature show clearly through. The manner in which the author weaves his concerns into the book are original.
The novel is also exceptionally educational: featuring remarkable research by the author. As I read I recognised, through my own historical reading, the depth of knowledge made available by Gracias to the reader.
For lovers of apocalyptic books, horror or challenging thrillers, this book is a must. If you enjoyed Dan Jones's "The Da Vinci Code", in my opinion, this is a much better novel: containing more eye opening and lesser known historical truths. As I mentioned above at times there are semblances to the "The Omen" film.
I thoroughly recommend this novel for all to read as a compelling, original and inspired work of fiction.
It falls into my must read pile of books. It will transport you to a different time and place and serves as a total escape.
I just can't wait for the inevitable sequel.

I received this in exchange for an honest review from NetGalley. Thank you to the author, Luke Gracias, and the publisher for this opportunity.

What does a suicidal nun, a winning lottery ticket, a paraplegic and a centuries-old missing prayer book have in common? This sounds like the beginning of a bad joke, but is actually the start of this queer and extraordinary tale.

I was initially a little disappointed with this book. The knowledge the author imparted was phenomenal and the author was clearly well-versed in the history of the subjects covered. However interesting this was, it read more like a non-fiction than a thrilling tale, which I wasn't anticipating. But once this initially dense first section had concluded the thrills and suspense began to take hold of the plot.

This became a dark and gory read and the author held nothing back in his portrayal of the immoral and the traitorous. This raw depiction of each horrifying scene is what made this come to life, in all its grim glory. The geographical settings and the historical fact were also written of so evocatively and sublimely that I felt I re-lived this book, rather than read it.

This is a superb and original book but is definitely not one for the faint of heart, due to some of the brutal and possibly triggering topics covered. The cliffhanger ending had me eager for a conclusion to this epic tale. With none yet announced I am struggling to see how this ending is fair on the poor nerve-wracked readers!

I hate to compare but this book has nuances of the Davinci code with supernatural twists but not in your typical way. In fact, its uniqueness kept it very interesting as there were stories within the story. Many others have outlined the storyline so I wont. I originally worried that this would be more of a 'horror' tale or creepy sci fi, but instead dealt with the supernatural aspect in a very believable way. My only disappointment is that I wished it hadn't ended as I would have liked to read more about what happens next. Can the author keep the same twisty story and feel should he continue it in a follow up novel or would it be a completely different kind of read to move on with the story? I know I'd buy a follow up to see!

Spectacularly dark, suspense filled masterpiece!

The Devil's Prayer is the darkest and most thrilling horror page turner I've read this decade.
Stunning storytelling accompanied by intriguing, fabulous writing and detailed historical research.
Amazingly fast paced with a brilliantly descriptive narrative, super dialogue and vividly rich three dimensional characterization of both main and minor characters.

The highly evocative background descriptions contained within the narrative provide a fascinating sense of place and atmosphere. A feast for reader senses!
The multitude of settings encompassed within The Devil's Prayer are breathtakingly unique and beautifully rendered ranging from: the hidden passageways in ancient convents and medieval monasteries, to historic cathedrals and ossuaries decorated in human bones.

The Devil's Prayer plays host to the most horrifying and sinister atmosphere I've ever encountered. Most pages either sent shivers down my spine or raised my heartbeat volume to thunderous levels- the ultimate hallmarks of a horror masterpiece.
Almost every single page had either Siobhan or Denise breathing air thick with the most palpable tension in literary history- and me experiencing it all along with them.
Every page I turned left me feeling the knife edge Denise was living and bequeathing to her eldest daughter after her death - The Devil's Prayer oozes spine tingling suspense.

But there were a few aspects of the story that didn't quite fit.
The rape scenes were gratuitous, highly explicit and occurred more than once- with the same victim and different perpetrators. Multiple rapes weren't really necessary to enhance the story.

The supernatural origins of The Codex Gigas (The Devil's Book) and the immense scope of the devil's power are both emphasized throughout the book.
If the Devil was powerful enough to write the entire The Codex Gigas text in a single night, why would the Devil chose to 1) only produce a single copy of Devil's Prayer- a 12 page instruction manual teaching his heir how to bring about the reign of Satan on Earth, 2) leave it with humans- trusting them to keep it secure and intact, 3) spend hundreds of years devising intricate schemes to ensure the 12 pages find their way to the Devil's heir.
It would be a lot easier to a) have multiple copies or b) teach the heir himself or via his minions and get her to memorize it all.

Luke Gracias is a writer of the highest calibre, such an amazingly skilled writer.
His writing transcends all the usual genre classifications.
Master of so many genres: horror, historical fiction, thriller, mystery,supernatural and fantasy.
His official title truly is storyteller extraordinaire.
I can't wait for the sequel.

Many thanks to Netgalley and Luke Gracias for this ebook for an honest review.

This story begins with a nun been chased to a very public suicide in a small Spanish town. Thousands of miles away in Australia Siobhan Russo is told that the nun was her mother Denise. Once a successful TV journalist she vanished without a trace years before. Siobhan travels to the convent her mother had been living in looking for answers and there finds her mothers confession, a story of murder, torture, rape.....and deals with the devil himself.

Firstly don't let the cover put you off. Yes it looks demonic and creepy but this story is much more than that. It's a story about a woman who is wronged in the worst way imaginable and left helpless gets the chance to get revenge and get her life back. But that chance involves a deal with the devil and gambling her daughters soul. It's a well thought out and conceived story, and held my attention throughout, although it must be said during the last few pages my eyes glazed over a bit - too many dates and locations. There are a few warnings about the subject matter, regarding torture and rape and they are pretty nasty scenes but it doesn't ever feel gratuitous or for some sort of sick titillation.....it's part of the story but is not lingered upon too much. It finishes quite suddenly and hopefully the author is planning a follow up.

If you liked The Da Vinci Code you'll probably like this too. Do not be put off by the cover or warnings (unless you're particularly sensitive), this is well worth a read.

This was interesting book of jealousy, betrayal and revenge. When I first started the book, I wasn't sure that it would be one I would finish due to it's slow start. Luckily I pushed through the slow beginning and I'm glad I did, for once Siobhan found and began reading her mother's diary, I found that the story quickly picked up and became unputdownable. Siobhan's mother's confession of the deal she made with the devil and the subsequent reason as to why she left her children and became a nun was the most interesting aspect of the entire story. My only complaint is how the book ends, I really wanted there to be a confrontation and fight between good and evil at the end; maybe there will be a sequel which will deal with the subject. Upon finishing the book, I learned that it has been optioned for film and I am most definitely interested in seeing the book brought to life. In the end I would recommend this to people who want something different and a story that is anything but expected.

"To believe in God, we must believe in the existence of the Devil. Without the Devil, religion has nothing to offer. Salvation means nothing if there are no repercussions to evil."

Strangely enough, this is the second book I've read in recent days that deals with the Devil--the first being The Master and Margarita, which was darkly humorous. Not so this one! It comes with an explicit content warning from the author: "The Devil’s Prayer" is a historical horror thriller that contains brutality, rape, sex, drug abuse and murder. Readers may find its content offensive and confronting." So be forewarned--there is explicit, graphic violence so it's not for the squeamish.

The Devil's Bible is a medieval book, huge in size, containing 322 sheets, from which 12 sheets have been removed--supposedly containing the Devil's Prayer. If that prayer is ever read, it is said it could unleash the apocalypse.

Although the book is historical fiction, the author says about 95% of the history is true. He has obviously travelled extensively and has posted his photographs of the historic sites mentioned in the story on the web page: www.devilsprayer.com. These add a lot to the enjoyment of the story.

I'm not going to summarize the plot since that is well done in the Goodreads summary above. But the plot is gripping and exciting with lots of twists and turns. I especially liked how the author relates the current crises caused by climate change and global warming to the End Days predicted in the Biblical Revelations. Although this book comes to a satisfying conclusion, there is (hopefully) more to come. I'm looking forward to the sequel which the author says he hopes will be out in December of 2017.

I am grateful to the author and NetGalley for a free ebook copy of this book and hope the author is soon able to find a publisher for his work.

This book is not for the faint at heart. In fact, it wisely comes with a disclaimer that "Readers may find its content offensive and confronting." That said, I found parts of the book to be fascinating, parts of it extremely creepy, and other parts a bit over the top. The books centers around a main character, Shioban, who is searching for the reason that her mother (Denise) disappeared eight years ago, and then recently appeared to commit suicide. The underlying basis of the story is based on facts from religious history and the book has a strong religious bent. It is the interpretation of the historical events, though, that belong solely to the author, and I loved his interpretation of the historical background. Any book that makes me want to do additional research on the historical background is a win to me, and this book definitely left me with that feeling. The creepy parts of the book were also exceptionally well done, and I enjoyed them immensely. Somewhere I saw the book described as "religious historical horror", which I must say, fits the book to a T. My only regret were in the few areas where I felt that the author went a bit over the top with his explanations and interpretations. If not for these, I would have given the book 5 stars.

Also, don't be discouraged by the abrupt ending, At first, I was really disappointed, but then I learned that a sequel is in the works and will be coming out this year. I am certainly looking forward to the sequel!

The Devil's Prayer, by Luke Gracias, whisked me away into a world of horror that genuinely scared me.

The story begins with a nun committing suicide in front of thousands in Spain. In Australia, Siobhan Russo recognizes the nun as her mother, Denise Russo, who disappeared 6 years ago. In search of answers Siobhan travels to the secluded convent where her mother had lived. Here she discovers Denise's final confession, a book that details betrayal, torture and her near death at the hands of her trusted friends and her subsequent deal with the Devil to get revenge on those responsible. In this desperate pact made with the Devil, she wagered Siobhan's soul.

Siobhan learns that hidden within the pages of her mother's confession is part of The Devil's Prayer, an ancient text with the power to unleash apocalyptic evil.
Can Siobhan escape those determined to get the Prayer back?

The history and theological lore is very well researched, the imagery is extremely vivid and the storyline is both spine chilling and thought provoking.

The Devil's Prayer, by Luke Gracias, is his debut novel. It is a thrilling, frightening ride and I can hardly wait to see what he comes up with next.

Thank you to NetGalley and Australia eBook Publisher for an arc of this novel.

I loved this book! It was captivating, scintillating, horrifying, tons of action and fabulous place setting and characters. It was very much a horror mystery type of story with lots of violence, but not gratuitous violence. It added to the story and made it much more complex. I couldn't put this down and would highly recommend it.

This was a fascinating story, lots of detailed history and a terrifyingly believable storyline, Apocalypse revisited. The book was well written with lots of interesting characters and well described interactions. The conclusion is left to your imagination. Great read.

A fabulously intriguing book, in the vein of The Omen or The Da Vinci Code but with far more connection between past and present.
Fascinating insights into the life of an ordered nun though brutal and frightening, with mystery, intrigue, murder and the battle between good and evil forming the basis for a brilliant piece of literature.

Couldn't put it down and wished I had read this book sooner. Have recommended it to my blog followers.

The Devil's Prayer is a compelling and intriguing novel blending historical fiction with religious treachery and deceit. It is fast-paced and deliciously dark, making for the kind of psychological thriller you don't want to put down. Siobhan's search, and the fearsome truths awaiting her, provide quite the wild ride.

The novel is well-written and edited, though I found some of the writing to be a bit more pragmatic than artistic. For that reason it doesn't flow as well as it could, but the intrigue of the story and the detail more than make up for it.

Someone please tell me a sequel is planned, as it ended too soon with so many questions unanswered!

I was caught up in the story the moment I read the description, there was no warm up time needed. Which is good because it doesn't entirely give you time to warm up; from page one it pulls you in and does not let you go.

The way the story is told is just amazing, you never know what's going to happen until you turn the page. The entire story is pretty awesome, totally intense and full of so many unexpected turns you won't be able to read it fast enough.

This is one of those books that makes me wish I could say more and go on and on but there are so few words to describe everything it truly is. It's one of those simply complex stories; done just right. I loved the theme, the plot, the entire point and the entire story. I definitely want more Luke Gracias can easily become a favorite author.

When I first read the blurb of this book I was desperate to read it - Why would a nun commit suicide? Why had a mother abandoned her children? What exactly is The Devil's Prayer?

To be honest I was expecting a mystery thriller with supernatural undertones. I could not have been more wrong.
This book is entirely unexpected. In a very good way though, it far surpassed my expectations. It does start off slowly but wow - you soon find yourself in an incredibly fast paced tale that twists and shocks constantly.

I enjoyed it immensely. The shifting of the voice telling the story is natural, the differences between them enough to make it obvious who was narrating. The two main female protagonists become incredibly sympathetic as the story moves along and the descriptions of various locations were detailed enough that you could easily 'see' them without the minute that bogs down some novels. Some of the scenes are brutal and deal with subject's that are very delicate. I felt that the author dealt with these incredibly well and, as someone who could be labelled 'sensitive' to some, it never felt gratuitous.

So why only four stars? Well, there are a few nagging issues that grew rather tiresome.
The main issue has nothing to do with the story itself - rather it is a huge formatting flaw. Every word that is written in italics, usually the foreign names of things or places, is tiny. About half of the size of the normal font. I do not need glasses but squinting constantly left me with a slight headache and a huge amount of frustration. It's always nice to know the real name of things so I nearly always took the time to look. Unfortunately that meant that the flow of the story was somewhat spoilt.
One other minor niggle was that I felt that some characters deserved much more of a back story than they got. At one point the motivation for one of the later characters is being explained then it suddenly turns into a detailed historical description and then back to one of the main protagonist's again. That was a shame because it would have been very satisfying to have learnt more about the actual character.

Overall I would definitely recommend this novel - I just hope that the migraine inducing formatting is sorted out!

This was atmospheric, thrilling and completely enthralling. I could not put it down!
Thanks to Netgalley for my early copy.

I received this free as an e-book in return for an un-biased review
I didn't mind this book at all, it was an entertaining read.
If I had to compare it to anything I have read previously then Dan Browns novels come to mind, I didn't really enjoy those much, or the movie.
However this was much more entertaining.
Opening a novel with a nun killing herself is sure to get your attention and it did.
Throughout the novel there was plenty of excitement, twists and turns.
There was also a nice melding of actual History and Religious facts mixed in together some some good fiction which made it readable and educational at the same time.
There was some horror and sometimes graphic violence but I feel it suited the novel and did not find it out of place.
I enjoyed the story and if there is another one I would certainly read it.

Luke Gracias' book is an interesting read. The ancient Church order trying to obtain the religious artifact, the friendly society trying to assist the heroine, the historical references - all of these are components of the best religion based thrillers. Gracias cooks up the story, blending in the ingredients and adding historical knowledge to serve up the perfect thriller.

It is quite an intense and disturbing subject matter and some of the injuries suffered are quite dramatic, but none of it felt gratuitous.

Not a writer that I've read before, but certainly one that I will read in the future.

Despite a slow (but beautifully crafted) start, this story soon took off - and how.
After learning of her mother's death (Denise Russo) in Spain, Siobhan travels from Australia in an attempt to understand why her mum left the family six years without saying goodbye. In the hope of learning the truth and regenerating the bond they had, she visits Spain to pay her respects and is immediately thrown headfirst into a cryptic maze of red-hooded monks and ancient texts.
Her mother bequeaths her a book - the confession - which explains everything. From the most appalling betrayal of her friends which left her in a quadriplegic state for months to her pact with the devil, Siobhan is immersed in a mystery than spans centuries and soon learns the book contains secrets wanted by others - others who are prepared to kill her for them.
This story is a thrilling ride across continents as the confession reveals the devil's handiwork and the prophecies of doom and destruction that face the human race. It's a chilling tale, very appropriate in current times as global warming and climate change wreak havoc on the planet. Was it all planned long ago? Can mankind stop the end of the world or is our greed too big an obstacle? A fascinating read.

he Devil's Pray is a book that just simply not able to put down once I started.. I started to read late at night and by the time I looked up it was morning.. Why does a Nun Commit suicide. Her daughter go's of to find out just what has happen and finds herself running for the same reason her mother Committed Suicide. I do not like to give the plot away so will just advice you to go get the book.well worth the money..
I am very happy to recommend this book one of the best this year. I would like to thank Luck Gracias for allowing me to review his book.
:)

The suicide of Sister Benedictine in Spain reveals that she was Denise Russo, the mother of Australian Siobhan Russo. She had apparently abandoned her family six years before, and Siobhan travels to Spain to pay her respects and find out what happened to give her family closure. A strange group of monks follows her, and she steals her mother's confession that had been locked away in the convent vault. Siobhan reads the journal as she tries to escape the monks and understand why her mother took a vow of silence after leaving Australia. It turned out that her mother had made a deal with the devil to get revenge on the people that had tortured her when Siobhan was a girl, with Siobhan's soul hanging in the balance.

The entire book was an engaging read, full of details that really give the characters life and full atmosphere to the locations. There are two distinct stories within this book. One is Siobhan's home life in Australia and journey to Spain, then being on the run from the monks before returning to Australia. The other is Denise's journal, which outlines the rape and torture she endured from friends after winning a lottery ticket. It's horrific to experience with her, even in the relatively spare description given, as well as the intense revenge she takes after making the deal with the devil. A larger conspiracy is at work, so Denise had also been tasked with finding the Devil's Prayer, which was left to Siobhan in the back of the journal.

It feels very similar to the Da Vinci Code, as it involves history blending together with religion; Luke Gracias had actually taken the Devil's Prayer from a piece of folklore regarding a bet a monk had made to complete a handwritten Bible overnight. That gives the conspiracy behind the drama a little more authenticity, which is always good in a novel like this. The ending feels almost abrupt and open-ended, though the story is complete. It could very easily be the first of a series of novels, exploring the ramifications of the Devil's Prayer and the fallout from Denise's deal.

Revenge... a dish best served cold! Trust me, this is not your everyday read, it is very thought provoking.
There is a depth that I was not expecting. It really gave me food for thought, and I had a moment of clarity. Conspiracy theorists will love this one! It is one read that will stay with me for a long time and I look forward to reading further works by this author!!! A humongous five big shining stars from me! It reminded me of The Da Vinci Code - I cannot praise this highly enough!

There are only two possible explanations for what I just read:
a) it is part of a series and nobody told me
b) netgalley only gave me half the book.

I was expecting something more like THE DA VINCI CODE with this so I am a little disappointed. The action I wanted just isn’t there. Most of this novel seems to just be Siobhan reading her mother’s diarised “confession”, and just as it was starting to get really good, it ended. I’m really hoping there’s a sequel to this or something because I need more. I need to hunt it down in a bookstore somewhere and find out.

Siobhan’s journey in her mothers footsteps is fascinating, as is reading her mother’s confession – the things Denise has done are both amazing and awful to read. I loved the slow burn reveal of the truth of the matter – going from Australia’s Gold Coast to a remote Spanish convent, with many wonderful sights to see in between, and many twists and turns in plot.

I’d pick up the sequel in a heartbeat.

This book was not what I expected at all. The title and cover give the impression that it will be "Dennis Wheatleyesque"-I expected satanists, devil worshippers and human sacrifice etc.What you get is something completely different.

The story starts with a nun being pursued by red hooded monks, and she ends up throwing herself from a bell tower. We then learn she has a family, and we start to unravel the story of her life, why she is estranged from her family, what caused her to die and the message she has for her eldest daughter..

I found it a very gripping story, and I couldn't put it down. In fact I became resentful when someone interrupted my reading opportunities!

This is a moral tale of revenge, betrayal and the effects of decisions made in desperation.This is all intertwined with the historical story of the Devil's prayer, an antidote to the birth of the anti-Christ , set in the 13th century, and the potential environmental consequences if the devil is not thwarted- leading to the demise of the human race by it's own hand..

I am no history expert but the historical aspects of the novel seem very well researched.

All in all it makes for very good reading , and it was left in such a way that (hopefully!) a sequel will follow.

I know it is cliché but this was a fast-paced page turner. My only beef was the open-ended finale. I am hopeful there is a sequel. The two timelines worked perfectly. The author did a great job with Sister Benedictine’s story. Again, I really enjoyed the novel and I would definitely recommend it to others.

Thank you for the advanced copy.

An engaging and terrrifying historical horror thriller from an author with a great narrative voice and ability draw his reader into the story and keep them there. If you like it scary, intelligent, and fast, this is the book you're looking for.

This is a most interesting and well thought out book. It is exciting, a bit gory in places, but it holds your attention right to the end. The ending is a bit abrupt, I hope that means there is to be a sequel, although I cannot imagine how that would turn out.
The book is essentially written in two voices. First the mother Denise, who while celebrating her birthday with friends and her fiancé, discovers that she has won the lottery jackpot. The friends are jealous, and resolve to steal the ticket from her, resulting in a horrific chain of events. The other voice is he eldest daughter Siobhan, who when she finds out that her mother has died after mysteriously vanishing six years previously decides to visit her grave. It is very easy to distinguish between the two voices, and the story soon grabs you and you don't want to put it down.
There is a lot of historical facts included in the story, and assumedly the author has interpreted some of this history to provide an absorbing background and 'reality' to the story. It is in essence a morality tale, where the ends justify the means; but it doesn't end at the point where good can be seen to triumph over evil, there is obviously considerable battle ahead before either side can triumph.
It is well worth reading, and quite unusual.

A bible with a hidden key, a lottery ticket, a mysterious sect of monks, gorgeous settings...and the Devil. It's an interesting combination of objects and players, and it makes for a mostly gripping novel.

The book is described as horror - and I would attribute that to the 2nd third of the novel. The first third could be more aptly described as a mystery/thriller - if you liked Dan Brown's Angels and Demons, you're on the right path. The last third of the book? There is a lot of history and information packed into this last part, along with some scary, tense stuff and an ending that frustrated as it left me hanging....

This is a book that requires you to go in with no expectations, good, as you've probably read nothing like it. Gracias does an extraordinary job of setting the scene and building tension for most of the book. Parts are graphic and visceral, and Gracias spares no gory detail. The story hurtles along until the final third, the pace slowed by a bit of an information dump only to spin on its tail and gather speed for its climax.

If you love historical fiction, mysteries, religious conspiracies and Umberto Eco then you will love The Devil's Prayer.
I don't want to spoil much but this book is definitely worth the read but the action revolves around the suicide of a nun and her two children whom she abandoned suddenly when the oldest was in her teens. The mystery of her demise becomes the main focus of her oldest daughter and a diary the explains most everything. Most of this novel moves quickly and is super entertaining.
I highly recommend this unique and well-written tale!
Thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to review this book.

The Devil's Prayer is a historical fiction meets thriller/mystery. On the one hand, you have a horrific incident fueled by greed which ends with quadriplegia and on the other hand, you have a biblical mystery. The pin that holds both sides together is the Devil himself. Can our main character Siobhan find out why her mother left her 6 years ago without a good bye. Why her mother became a nun and why she committed suicide in front of thousands? Will Siobhan believe in what she finds out and will she choose the right course to take once she has all the answers. This book was a thrilling ride. If you like Dan Brown you will love Luke Gracias.

This reminded me a lot of The DaVinci Code but for various many reasons. It is completely different but the plot does keep you wondering through the mystery if it is going to be solved or not. Much like DaVinci Code there must have been a TON of research done for this. The actual historical facts that are interwoven are spectacular and make the book fantastic.

The plot starts immediately and I was taken aback by many things that happened just in the first chapter. The entire rest of the book is used to explain what happened in the first chapter and why.

I enjoyed how the plot was written. It is written through letters that are a confession to her oldest daughter. Most of it is surrounding a mother and her feelings for her children and her findings in the time she has been away from her children.

The characterization is fantastic. The story is categorized under horror and there are some horrific elements involved. Very horrific in some cases. There are cases of rape, death (lots of death) but in the normal category of horror, as in compared to something like the Exorcist, I didn't think this was very horrific. I had thoughts that this would be super scary and leave me with nightmares but really it was pretty tame, in that aspect.

I did, however, leave me with a lot of thoughts while reading and after I finished! It was so well done, and the imagery was so vivid that I felt like I was a part of the story. The phone would ring or my dogs would bark and I was shaken back into reality. While, some of the story line was a little slow, and there was a bit at the end that will definitely be a bit annoying to those that do not want to listen to liberal rhetoric, I thought the entire of it was so well done that I could not put it down. Only in times of necessity.

The ending was a bit weird. I searched and searched for a part two but found nothing. I think this is how it is supposed to end with leaves questions but also leaves answers. It's not how I would have wanted it to end but it was GREAT.

In short: Absolutely fantastic. I loved nearly every word.

I came to this book with no preconceived ideas as I had never heard of the author. I imagined it as a "better" version of the Da Vinci Code with some horror and had read the trigger warnings. The surprise was how quickly I was swept up in the story. Who was this nun running through buried tunnels? Why was she estranged from her family? What would her daughter find out when she travels to the convent? There is a lot going on here and it is obvious the author is well versed in arcane information. But he wears his learning lightly. This is a fictional roller coaster ride not a lecture. but the knowledge adds to the story by making it seem "real". Recommended if you enjoy a good page turner with a bit of depth.

I was given a copy of this book by Netgalley in return for an honest review.

Gripping read from the start. Real page turner! Highly recommended

I absolutley loved this book. Such an interesting premise and educational to boot. I'd never heard of the Devil's Bible before or the myth that surrounds it. This book is right up my street, and I finished it very quickly because I couldn't bear to put it down without knowing what happened to Siobhan Russo, desperately trying to find out her mother's secret. Denise Russo had disappeared years ago, leaving her daughters and mother behind, but when Siobhan realises that a nun who recently committed suicide in Spain is actually her mum, she is determined to get to the bottom of what happened to her. Stunning locations, vivid descriptions, a sinister sect and break neck storyline all enmeshed in a deeply disturbing true piece of history. Please say there is a sequel...I can't wait!

Luke Gracias has a book comparable to Dan Brown's Da Vinci Code
Full of intrigue from the beginning as the story unfolds it keeps you spellbound as you held in suspense all the way through and even on the last page the sight of the man in the fedora leaves you wondering what will become of the two sisters.

I'm not really a fan of horror novels, so I did not know what to expect. But I can honestly say I was surprised! The book was well written, grabbing me from the start and leaving me scared throughout...... The book was well researched, and worth the trouble, even for a horror newbie like me! Recommended!!

This is a story that spans the centuries, starting in Spain then to Australia and then across mainland Europe.

A nun commits suicide in Public during a holy festival. The reasons for this choice are found in her book of confession. It is discovered by her daughter Siobhan. As Siobhan goes through the confession the story of her mother is laid out before her. Rather than being the mother who walked out on them a few years ago, she is actually something very different and the safety of her daughters is paramount. Siobhan has a younger sister, Jess, but it's only Siobhan who the confession is for. As the story unfold the reason for this and many other things become apparent.

The story takes us through the Catholic faith, discussing saints, secrets, monasteries, churches, libraries, books, manuscripts and codices. It soon becomes obvious that there has been a lot of research into this subject. For the most part it is well paced, only slowing slightly towards the end a huge amount of dates, places and people are mentioned, but still enjoyable and digestible. There are some brutal scenes depicted in this book and so is not for the fainthearted.

At the end of the book there are a lot of unanswered questions that I assume will be answered in a following book, or books. I look forward to reading more from this author.

I would recommend this book to readers of thriller, historical fiction and mystery. It is not a book for the faint-hearted as there are some quite brutal scenes described in this book. It is not comfortable reading but is part of the plot.

I would like to thank Netgalley and Australian eBook Publisher for allowing me an ARC copy of this book, for my honest and unbiased opinion.

This book is darkly brilliant. The pace runs wild then slows abruptly to let the story sink in. I found it hard to put down wanting to find out if the Red Monks would catch up.

I seriously can not recommend this book enough. Hopefully there is a sequel in the works.

The Devil's Prayer by Luke Gracias takes you into a world of mystery and horror. The book is thrilling and horrifying at the same time. The book begins in a small Spanish town. A nun is copying the Devils Prayer from a book, a prayer that is important. Before she finishes she is chased by a group of sword wielding monks and ends up trapped in a bell tower. The only way out is death, an apparent suicide to people watching.

In Australia, Siobhan Russo recognises the nun as her mother who had disappeared six years earlier. Siobhan goes on a journey to find out what happened to her mother. A journey that takes her to the secluded monastery where she receives some documents her mother left her. Reading these documents Siobhan becomes aware of the horrors her mother faced in the past. Horrors that led her to make a pact with the devil. By possessing the diary Siobhan's life is in danger from the very monks who drove her mother to her death. She needs to find the book of the devil before they can and goes on a quest to find this.

I really enjoyed this book. It is a twisting thriller which keeps you turning the pages to the end wanting to know what will happen. There has obviously been a lot of research put into the book. A lot of historical background was evident that helped to bring the story to life. The book can be graphic and horrific as well which will appeal to any horror lovers. The book is full of surprises and the characters linger in the mind. The ending is a cliff hanger and I hope that there is a sequel soon.

The Devil’s Prayer were two very interesting books!

The reason I say this is that there can be a line drawn very distinctively between the first and the second part of the book, and each could have been perfectly great on its own.

The Devil’s Prayer is the story of a woman, Denise, who, after winning the lottery is abducted, raped and left to die. Instead of dying, she makes a deal with the Devil. Later on, she finds out about the existence of an old book, one part of which is called The Devil’s Prayer, and she sets out to find it.

I greatly enjoyed the first part of the book – the story of Denise before she started looking for the book. It was a page turner and it was very exciting and creative. The end of this first story was a big surprise, even though I had guessed the general lines of where it was headed.

The second part, the one about The Devil’s Prayer, was something else. It was interesting in a completely different way. This storyline was more in the vicinity of Dan Brown back when I enjoyed his works, and it had a great plot behind it. It also sort of reminded me of one of my favourites, The Historian, so that was another bonus for me. However, this part of the book also felt underdeveloped. It took entirely too little time in terms of the book, and it could have been so much bigger and more explosive. The author had a great “conspiracy theory” about a document signed between Arnaud Amalric and Jebe Noyan in the 13th century. I would have LOVED to read a more detailed and suspenseful novel about this. Not to mention that part of this story was set in Bulgaria, so I couldn’t help but being proud of our history. Sadly, it seems that the author wasn’t sure what to do with this treasure of a plot line, so he rushed it and he left big parts of it just hanging there.

The ending of the book was also not ideal. The entire narrative seemed like the introduction to a much larger story, which never happened. The ending was supposed to be, in my mind, a bigger event, and instead it was left completely unresolved. If there’s a second book coming, I would definitely read it, because the ending didn’t satisfy my curiosity.

Nevertheless, a very interesting book indeed.

The book was captivating and extremely unpredictable.I loved reading the book till the end.I am looking forward to reading a sequel to this book.

The Devil's Prayer by Luke Gracias
Rating ****.4 4.4/5 Recommended
The Devil's Prayer is a packed, fact-actioned, no holds barred novel which takes the reader on numerous locations on a menacing, dangerous journey stretching back through centuries. The cleverly written paranormal plot is based on well researched historical events and places. Most of which I hadn't heard of but found extremely interesting.
A real page turner with many twists and characters who were varied, with multi faceted natures; menacing or kind, good v evil.
The Devil's Prayer is a novel I recommend: Luke Gracias is a talented writer and hopefully we will hear more from him.
I received a copy of The Devil's Prayer from NetGalley for an unbiased review, which I have given. Thank you.

Wow! What an amazing ride! This book will grab you by the throat and not let go until the very end! The plot contains twists and turns that will leave you reeling and keep you guessing until the very end! Absolutely loved it and want more from this author!

I started this book before bed one night and well lets just say it was a late night by the time I put the book down. The author took me on such a roller coaster ride that was adrenaline based and had me on the edge of my seat for most of the night . The story line alone had me hooked . A young woman Siobhan is trying to figure out what happened to her mother . After seeing a nun who looked like her mother hang herself . That is the first piece of the puzzle that Siobhan must solve to in the mystery of why her mother disappeared 6 years prior .  The pat that Siobhan travels down is dark and scary, armed with only the confession of her mother and the mysterious prayer hidden within the words on the paper . Siobhan is in grave danger and she must outsmart her mother's enemies and save the world from ultimate destruction . 
    The characters are very well written and complex. Siobhan is a fighter and doesn't stop until she has all the answers she needs .  She finds more about her history as she reads her mother's confession . The monks are well lets just say evil . They want the confession back and will do any thing it takes to get it back . The characters will have you cheering for them in Siobhan's case and wanting to kill them yourselves as in the monks case . 
    The author does such a great job mixing the historical part of the story and what is happening in the real life of Siobhan .  The book takes off like a bat out of hell and doesn't stop the roller coaster ride . The author takes us on a journey of epic proportions . The twists and turns are every where. You think you have it figured out and bam the author takes you in a totally different  direction .  The author did a great deal of research to keep this book as accurate as it is. The mixture of the thirteenth history and the real up to date time. The way the author describes everything has you actually seeing the monasteries in your mind as you read The book is part the historian . part the Da Vinci Code and The Omen all rolled into one great read . So if you like a great book that will keep you reading all night long and take you away to a place that will have you thinking all night long . Check out THE DEVIL'S PRAYER  you will not be disappointed .

A good story which keeps the pages turning. It is reminiscent of The Davinci Code in the religious suspense woven around real places and articles. It goes slightly into the fantasy genre with the conversations with the Devil, but that is all part and parcel of the book. Don't expect a straight action/suspense thriller read like Dan Brown's books.
‎I couldn't give five stars as occasionally the story went very dry and hard to read because it felt like I was in a history lesson, FAR too much detail that isn't necessary for the story. I kept getting side tracked by looking up places and events in Wikipedia. I have learned a few new things from reading this book but it isn't really what I was looking for as a 'wind down' read at bedtime.
‎I'm not going to spoil the story but in my opinion it ended without properly finishing the story. Maybe there will be a second book...I don't know, but it definitely feels unfinished to me. It wasn't quite what I was expecting from reading the blurb and watching the video trailer.
‎Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for my review copy.

This is a dark and gripping thriller that is full of mystery, suspense and intrigue. The storyline is fascinating and the characters are beyond evil. The twists in the story are shocking and unexpected. It's a truly fascinating story.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley. This is my voluntary and honest opinion of it.

The cover and description are what furst drew me into this book. I do not normally read historical novels but this one caught my attention. From the beginning I was drawn into the story and determined to find out what happened next. I enjoyed following the daughter along her mother's journey through a diary. The details given were incredible and made me feel like I was experiencing it first hand. The pictures definately helped to break up all the historical details. I was a little disappointed at the end... I was left wanting more... I am hoping another book is coming to continue this story.

What else aren't they telling us in church? Secrets abound, in spite of historic attempts at revelation. A nun's public suicide leads our heroine to suspect this could be her missing mother! Intrigue leads to a discovery that mushrooms dangerously...

This isn't normally the genre I read, but right from the start this book caught my attention. I'm glad I requested this book because it gave me an adventure I'm happy I got the opportunity to go on. The detail and world building was pronominal to say the least, but the story also takes you along a dark, and sometimes quite gory journey, all while remaining almost relatable. I mean sure, you're conversing with the devil, but on a completely mundane level!

I'd love to regale everyone with ever detail of this fantastic read, that had me almost never putting this book down, but honestly, pick it up and read it for yourselves. I'll be over here not so patently waiting for the next part of Siobhan's journey.

Lately I have been having a hard time laying my hands on a good horror novel with something new and truly scary. This book ticked all the boxes for me. I loved the whole storyline. I like the way the author has woven history, modern day global issues and the supernatural into one fluid narrative. Once I was hooked, I couldn't put it down. I can't wait for the sequel. There will be a next one I hope.

I was not sure what to expect since I just started reading scary books again, in the trilling sense. I stopped reading books like this one since I always were disappointed after, the books I read did not give me what I wanted. Because of the cover of this book, I gave it a try.

The book did not sped a lot of time to get into the action, the whole book started with a suicide. From that time one, I was hooked on the book. It varies between action and building story and character in a nice way, and most important, it kept me interested throughout the book.

Generally I do not like the story telling done in this book. I do not like to read the story with the main character, as done here when she is reading her mums diary. But the "outer" story does not overshadow the main story, or take up unnecessary space as this type of story telling tend to do. I felt that the breaks from the diary help me to think and debate the book, as the "outer" main character does.

All in all I was really happy with my decision to get this book, and are at the edge of my seat waiting for the continuation!

This book has it all- murder, greed, good vs. evil, history, faith, love, and much more. The story spans over centuries but mainly focuses on the separate stories of a mother who is betrayed by the ones she loves and makes a deal with the devil, and a daughter in search of answers. I am REALLY hoping for a sequel. Thank you Netgalley for a copy of this exciting and brutal book.

An exciting book that races around the world, similar to Dan Brown or Steve Berry. Definitely more of a religious tone than Dan or Steve and the author provides some historical context to the story afterwords. I can't wait for the next book to continue the story.