Perfect Sacrifices

Book Three (Perfect Prophet 3)

Fiction - Horror
366 Pages
Reviewed on 06/03/2023
Buy on Amazon

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Author Biography

Diane M. Johnson was born and raised in the heart of Central New York before moving out to California upon graduating with a film theory degree from Binghamton University. She has been a screenwriting finalist many times over in various competitions, as well as a script reader.

Her first novel, The Schoharie, was adapted from one of her early scripts. She is also the first one to admit that if you've heard of Diane Johnson, she's probably not "that" Diane Johnson. But she's hoping that will change...

    Book Review

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

Perfect Sacrifices is a work in the horror, interpersonal drama, and family relationships subgenres, forming the third novel of the Perfect Prophet book series. It is best suited to the mature adult reading audience owing to explicit and graphic content relating to torture, sexual situations, abuse, violence, and suicide. Penned by Diane M. Johnson, the saga continues for half-brothers Alec and Lucas. After trying to live a quieter life in a lighter world, the cult that Lucas once ran calls him back to be a prime sacrifice for the Dark One. This puts everyone in danger and causes the brothers to explore deep familial issues to find their faith and sanity again.

Diane M. Johnson has crafted a truly unique horror series like nothing I’ve encountered before. I adored the emotional, psychological, and social complexity with which this story is told. Alec and Lucas are an interesting dynamic, each damaged by past experiences but attempting to heal in their unique approaches. When they come together, things get explosive, unlocking a dark interpersonal history with many shocking moments to overcome. While the novel is graphic, it never felt gratuitous, and the more intense scenes and darker mental health themes only served to intensify the emotional core of the plot and make us all the more invested in finding hope again. Overall, Perfect Sacrifices is recommended for fans of intricately penned horror and intelligent discussions of faith and family dynamics.

Parul Sood

Perfect Sacrifices, the third installment of the Perfect Prophet series by Diane M. Johnson, delivers a gripping, intense horror novel that explores themes of faith, loyalty, and redemption. The story follows Alec and Lucas, two brothers scarred by their experiences at a Christian commune. Forgiveness becomes a challenging journey as they confront the deep-seated trauma they endured. Along the way, their troubles escalate when their past catches up with them, threatening the lives of their friends, fans, and family. Alec, a former death-metal guitarist turned faith healer, must grapple with the challenges of inhabiting a new body while facing dangerous enemies tied to his newfound identity. Lucas, a reformed Satanic cult member, seeks redemption as he protects Alec's ex-wife and son, navigating a treacherous path as a fugitive linked to crimes he did not commit.

Perfect Sacrifices by Diane M. Johnson is a roller coaster of suspense and unexpected twists. Johnson expertly weaves together multiple storylines, seamlessly shifting the spotlight to highlight the outstanding supporting cast. Characters like Belinda, Alec's ex-wife, and Maggie, Jake's girlfriend, shine as they face challenges and play crucial roles in the events unfolding. Johnson's writing tackles complex subjects with great sensitivity and realism, immersing readers in a world fraught with fear, uncertainty, and heartbreak. The narrative is layered with the exploration of death, betrayal, and complex family relationships, adding a powerful emotional impact to the story, and allowing readers to empathize with the characters and their struggles. The alternating points of view provide different perspectives and enhance the overall understanding of the complex plot. Those who enjoy cult or Christian-themed horror will find this book a worthy addition to their shelves.

Alma Boucher

Perfect Sacrifices by Diane M. Johnson is book three in the Perfect Prophet series. Alec didn't believe in God after all he had endured at the hands of his father. After Alec was shot through the heart, he was reborn as a faith healer and acquired the power to heal people. Alec touched a teenager and she was able to speak again, and her crippled hand was healed. Alec had a half-brother Lucas, who lived in a cemetery after leaving a satanic cult. The cult members wanted to sacrifice him, and they used the teenager as bait to draw him out into the open. Alec’s ex-wife Belinda and her son Jake visited the house they once shared with Alec. It was not long before their lives are in danger, and they must rely on Lucas to stay out of the hands of the cult members.

The plot of Perfect Sacrifices is complex and intriguing. This supernatural thriller was interwoven with faith, loyalty, and forgiveness. Diane M. Johnson created a world of fear and evil where anything was justified to achieve a goal. The events were violent and graphic, and at times they were described in detail. The storyline moved along at breakneck speed and was jam-packed with action. The twists and turns were tense, and I never knew what would happen next. The characters were excellently developed and authentic. The relationships between the family members were intense and emotional. The story was brilliantly written and came to a satisfying conclusion.