cyrille6k's reviews
641 reviews

While Ted Dekker's Sinner is a compelling read, I found the pacing to be uneven. The early chapters were engaging, but the middle portion felt sluggish. 

The ending was a bit rushed and tied up too neatly. Dekker's books typically have a more intricate and satisfying conclusion, so this was a bit disappointing. 

Despite these minor flaws, Showdown is still a worthwhile read. Dekker's exploration of faith and government corruption is thought-provoking and relevant. However, the portrayal of Christianity as a cult-like force and the unclear consequences of the faith-based law raised some concerns. 

Overall, Showdown is a solid addition to Dekker's oeuvre, but it falls short of his best work. 

Ted Dekker's Saint is a compelling thriller that delves into themes of identity, faith, and the consequences of manipulation. The novel follows Carl Strople, an assassin with a mysterious past, as he questions his existence and seeks to uncover the truth behind his identity.

Dekker's signature blend of suspense, action, and spiritual themes is on full display in Saint. The story's fast-paced plot and adrenaline-fueled twists keep readers engaged from beginning to end. Dekker's exploration of faith and the human condition is thought-provoking and impactful.

While Saint is a well-crafted thriller, it may fall short in its attempt to integrate seamlessly with the Paradise series. As a novel, it's still an engaging and enjoyable read, but some readers may find the connections to the previous series lacking.

Overall, Saint is a compelling and thought-provoking novel that offers a unique blend of action, suspense, and spiritual exploration. Dekker's writing style is captivating, and the characters are well-developed.

The Books of History Chronicles: Paradise is a captivating and engaging read that kept me hooked from beginning to end. The connections to the previous series, The Lost Books and The Circle, were seamlessly woven into the narrative, adding depth and complexity.

I'm eager to dive into the next book in the Paradise Books series and see where the story goes.

Chloe Gong's Immortal Longings is a thrilling adult fantasy that delivers on its promise. Set in a world where body-jumping is commonplace, the story follows exiled princess Calla and struggling musician Anton as they compete in a deadly tournament.

While the premise may bear some resemblance to The Hunger Games, Immortal Longings stands on its own with its unique characters, engaging plot, and stunning world-building. Gong's portrayal of her enemy characters is exceptionally well done.  

The fast-paced narrative and unpredictable twists keep readers on the edge of their seats. The ending is a cliffhanger that will leave you eager for the next installment.

Immortal Longings is a must-read for fans of adult fantasy and anyone looking for a thrilling and captivating story.

Yumi and the Nightmare Painter, is a powerful exploration of art, humanity, and the pursuit of truth. With its emotional depth and raw honesty, the novel resonates deeply with readers, celebrating the courage and resilience of the human spirit. Sanderson's masterful storytelling and unexpected twists make this a truly unforgettable reading experience. The ending is a breathtaking climax that rewards readers with a profound sense of fulfillment.

While I enjoyed Green overall, I was disappointed by the ending.

The idea of Thomas being trapped in an eternal cycle of realities feels unsatisfying, especially considering his sacrifices. It's a bittersweet conclusion that may leave some readers feeling conflicted.

Ted Dekker concludes the Circle Trilogy with a powerful and thought-provoking finale. White is the best installment in the series, offering a satisfying conclusion to the epic saga. While it's recommended to read the previous books for full context, White stands on its own as a captivating and engaging story.

Dekker's writing is masterful, weaving a complex narrative filled with metaphors and symbolism. The story explores themes of sacrifice, redemption, and the power of love.

The climax of the trilogy is particularly impactful, showcasing the devastating consequences of the virus and the ultimate sacrifice made to save humanity. Dekker's ability to create vivid and immersive worlds is unparalleled, making the dream world feel incredibly real.

White is a must-read for fans of fantasy and anyone seeking a unique and thought-provoking reading experience. With its captivating characters, intricate plot, and powerful themes, it's a book that will stay with you long after you finish the final page.

I am also going to read Showdown and The Saint and Sinner to fully immerse myself in Dekker's world.

Ted Dekker's Black is a captivating thriller that showcases his mastery of storytelling. Dekker's ability to weave thought-provoking messages into his narratives, create suspenseful plots, and develop memorable characters makes him a standout author. 

Black is a standout in Dekker's oeuvre. The plot is intricate and engaging, filled with suspense, action, and unexpected twists. The characters are well-developed and relatable, making it easy to connect with their struggles and triumphs. 

Dekker's world-building is exceptional. He creates two distinct yet interconnected realities, each with its own unique characteristics and challenges. The vivid descriptions and imaginative details bring these worlds to life. 

The writing style is engaging, witty, and thought-provoking. Dekker's ability to balance suspense with humor and heartfelt moments is a testament to his skill as a writer. 

Cut and Thirst is a concise, dialogue-driven story that showcases Margaret Atwood's wit and clever writing. While the brevity may appeal to some, others may find the pacing a bit slow. 

The story centers around three women, Myrna, Leonie, and Chrissy, who gather weekly to share stories about their past lives as professors and discuss their plans for revenge against a group of male poets who mistreated their friend, Fern. 

Atwood's writing style is distinctive, with hints of Shakespearean drama. While some of her views may not resonate with all readers, her ability to craft compelling characters and engaging dialogue is undeniable. 

Red by Ted Dekker is a captivating continuation of the Circle series. The story picks up where Black left off, with Thomas Hunter caught in a perilous dual reality.

As the deadly Raison Strain virus spreads, Thomas must navigate the complexities of his existence in both worlds. In one, he leads his Forest Guard against the Horde, while in the other, he works with the U.S. government to prevent a global catastrophe.

Dekker's writing is gripping and immersive, drawing readers into Thomas's world and keeping them on the edge of their seats. The cliffhanger ending leaves the reader eager for the next installment in the series.

If you haven't read the previous books, I highly recommend starting with Black to fully appreciate the intricate plot and character development. Red offers a thrilling continuation of the series, filled with suspense and unexpected twists.