Have you ever wondered if there’s more to life? If we are destined for something great? Part of a divine plan rather than just subjects of random chaos? Mason Cole has wondered these things. And he has the answer…

No.

How could that be when his parents were killed in an earthquake that destroyed the city of Jerusalem, yet he alone survived? How could he be destined for great things when he’s stuck in a town-shaped reststop where nothing he does makes a difference? And why would God do this to him in the first place?

Then one day a stranger passes through town, bringing with him a unique explanation of his past, one he never could have imagined, and wishes he could forget. It sounds like something from one of his books, only this time it’s happening to him, and it becomes clear that not every miracle is a blessing. Now, with a red-haired devil hell bent on possessing him for his own sinister gains, Mason must discover the answers to these questions if he ever hopes to survive in a world where the dark no longer hides that which dwells within.

***

Greetings! Thanks for checking out my work. At it’s core, this story is about the many obstacles we encounter in life and persevering through them. It involves a larger supernatural picture but remains grounded in the deeply personal struggle of the main character, similar to a Joe Hill or Nick Cutter novel, and also examines faith, loss, survivor’s guilt, sacrifice, and why we relate to stories so much, even rely on them in order to deal with reality. It should appeal to readers who like dark tunnels with a light at the far end.

*It has the supernatural scope and personal focus of Buffy the Vampire Slayer. And you’ll find Whedon’s philosophy of making it dark, grim, and tough, but telling a joke afterward woven into the very fabric of the story. Less emphasis on “extravagant” monsters though. There are vampires, ghosts, demons, and a few other things, but you’re not likely to see ten foot tall creatures with horns and tentacles (well…never say never.)

Then there’s the procedural element and mature tone of the X-Files. Don’t get me wrong, X-Files had it’s humor and light-hearted moments, even some things that were completely off the wall like “The Post Modern Prometheus” and a COPS episode both of which I thought were terrific. But it was very much more geared toward adult audiences, and the same is true for The Miracle Sin. At times it even leans into a more True Detective feel, so yay nihilism!

And then there’s that dash of Are You There, God? It’s Me, Margaret. The Miracle Sin is, at its core, about the main character’s regard for and relationship with God. Sometimes a very contentious one, but as can happen in life, things occur which force us to ask why, or at least wonder if there isn’t something more than just random chaotic chance working this often strangely complex world we live in.

So there you have it.

The book is currently finished and you can read the first two chapters right now. Comments and questions always welcome. There will be more to come soon, so stay tuned.

-MH-

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