Black: The Birth of Evil

Ted Dekker

The Circle #1

Summary:

Enter an adrenaline-laced epic where dreams and reality collide.

Fleeing his assailants through deserted alleyways, Thomas Hunter narrowly escapes to the roof of a building. Then a silent bullet from the night clips his head...and his world goes black.

From the blackness comes an amazing reality of another world-a world where evil is contained. A world where Thomas Hunter is in love with a beautiful woman. Then he remembers the dream of the chase as he reaches to touch the blood on his head.

Where does the dream end and reality begin? Every time he falls asleep in one world, he awakes in the other-both facing catastrophic disaster. Thomas is being pushed beyond his limits...even beyond the limits of space and time.

Black is an incredible story of evil and rescue, betrayal and love, pursuit and death, and a terrorist's threat unlike anything the human race has ever known.

Some say the world hangs in the balance of every choice we make. Now the fate of two worlds hangs in the balance of one man's choice.

In One Word: Woah!

Plot:

Okay, so what do you get when you cross Narnia, with some crime thriller about a terrorist attack? You get this book, and it’s fascinating. I really liked this story, although it did drag on a bit in the middle. The whole idea of two completely different worlds linked by one man is extremely interesting. Then add some weird bat things and trees that glow, and a very scary virus and you’re set. Overall I felt like this was an extremely original idea, but the writing was not as good as I would’ve hoped. That might improve as the series progresses, though, we shall see. I do think the story was more than just interesting, though, Dekker is a genius at allegories.

Characters:

This is where the book disappointed me a little. The story was very unique and interesting, but it felt a little like the characters weren’t as important to the author. Which is very weird for a Dekker book, since he usually focuses primarily on the characters, not the story. The characters were all a little flat and at times even a little silly. I do, however, hope for improvement for the other three books.

Who should read this:

12+, there is quite a bit of violence, but it’s never extremely graphic or disturbing. If you like Narnia, then you might enjoy this, since one half of it had a very similar feel to it in my opinion. If you don’t like books that have Christian undertones, or want a light, happy read, don’t read this.

My rating:

This book wasn’t perfect, but I thoroughly enjoyed it, and I loved the ideas and concepts. 4/5

Quote:

“How can there be love without a true choice? Would you suggest that man be stripped of the capacity to love?” 

Bridge to Haven

Francine Rivers

Summary:

1951

To those who matter in Hollywood, Lena Scott is the hottest rising star to hit the silver screen since Marilyn Monroe. Few know her real name is Abra. Even fewer know the price she’s paid to finally feel like she’s somebody.

To Pastor Ezekiel Freeman, Abra will always be the little girl who stole his heart the night he found her, a wailing newborn abandoned under a bridge on the outskirts of Haven. Zeke and his son, Joshua – Abra’s closest friend – watch her grow into an exotic beauty. But Zeke knows the circumstances surrounding Abra’s birth have etched scars deep in her heart, scars that leave her vulnerable to a fast-talking charmer who lures her to Tinseltown. Hollywood feels like a million miles from Haven, and naive Abra quickly learns what’s expected of an ambitious girl with stars in her eyes. She discovers too late that fame comes at a devastating price.

She’s burned every bridge to get exactly what she thought she wanted. Now all she wants is a way back home.

In One Word: Touching

Plot:

First of all, let me just say, I had very high expectations of this book after hearing it compared to ‘Redeeming Love’ several times. However, the story was just a tad too similar to RL for me, in the sense that the plotline is almost exactly the same. However, that doesn’t mean I didn’t enjoy the book. The story was a little predictable and while I did feel for the characters it wasn’t the emotional rollercoaster I’ve come to expect when reading Rivers’ novels. The story and setting was interesting enough, but too many of the characters’ struggles and problems have been adressed in previous novels by this author. I did like the ‘doing anything to become famous’ plotline, since I don’t think Francine has written something about that before.

Characters:

I liked the main character, Abra, very much, but I felt like it was too easy to sympathise with her. Her character makes bad choices, but it almost feels like the author is trying to justify this by making her past really traumatic and hard. I do think there’s positive and negative aspects to this, as I’m sure some readers will relate more to this type of story than others, but I felt like Abra couldn’t just make mistakes because she’s human and everyone does, but it always had to be about something that’s happened to her in the past. I really loved Joshua, though, and I loved the chemistry and connection between him and Abra. Francine is exceptionally good at making her characters work well together. I also liked Pastor Zeke, who’s a good man, but not perfect in any way. Overall the main characters were well-handled as always, relatable and likable, but I felt like there was a little too much explanation and rationalising for Abra’s choices.

Who should read this:

12+, mainly for sexual content and violence. As this is Christian fiction there is no curse words in this novel, however Francine has never been one to shy away from difficult or controversial topics, so I would advise caution for younger readers. If you enjoy novels by Rivers, or Karen Kingsbury you should enjoy this one, but if you want to read something profound I’d suggest either Francine’s ‘Mark of the Lion’ trilogy or ‘Redeeming Love’. If you want a relaxing, engaging, easy-to-read book with some emotional parts I’d definitely suggest this one.

My rating:

I enjoyed this book, I never once wanted to put it down. However, I was expecting something a little more. 4/5

Quote:

You can make many plans, but the Lord’s purpose will prevail.

Forbidden

Ted Dekker & Tosca Lee

The Books of Mortals #1

Summary:

The world as we know it is unrecognisable.

Almost 500 years have passed since civilization’s brush with extinction. Perfect order reigns and humanity’s greatest threats have been silenced by the ruling totalitarian government.

There is no disease. No passion. No hate. No war.

There is only peace.

Until one man discovers the truth hidden in a secret journal: the human heart has been stripped of all emotion and exists only in a kind of living death. But when Rom became exposed to the vial of blood contained in the journal he was filled with uncontrollable passion. Only Rom is now truly alive, and only he has the knowledge that can reawaken humanity.

But the way is dangerous and the cost staggering...the way is Forbidden.

Plot:

I have to admit, the start of this story was not very promising in my opinion. It felt like the authors were having a bit of trouble explaining the premise of the story. However, I might have wanted something from the book that wasn’t what the author intended. I wanted the book to showcase how beautiful all emotions are, even the negative ones, but I realised about half way through that that wasn’t the point of this book. This story is about a saviour, coming to save the humans from death, and to teach them about love. I personally read it as an allegory to the life of Jesus Christ, but even if that’s not your cup of tea this is a really interesting and unique story.

Characters:

It’s kind of hard to fall in love with characters who can’t love, but Dekker and Lee manages to make them come alive, and you really start to feel for them. I didn’t have a favourite character, and that’s usually not a good sign, but this book didn’t need extremely good characters to make it special. The characters were flawed, although one was a little too good to be true, and the villian was extremely scary.

Who should read this:

13+, mainly for violence, it’s not extremely graphic, but it is disturbing. There is no language and very mild sexual content. The story might also be a little hard to understand for younger readers. If you’re looking for a book that will make you think, this is a good choice. If you want something simple and lighthearted I don't suggest this one. Also if you don't like books that have Christian undertones this might bother you a little.

My rating:

I didn’t love the beginning of this book, I felt like the authors had a little trouble explaining exactly what was going on. I did however, love the rest, and I can totally appreciate the complex ideas that they tried to incorporate. Do I think it’s the best Dekker can do? No. Do I think it’s a good book. Yes. 4/5

Quote:

It's the sorrow you feel that allows you to crave love. Without the suffering, there would be no true pleasure. Without tears, no joy. Without deficiency, no longing. This is the secret of the human heart, Rom.

Blink of an Eye

Ted Dekker

Summary:

The future changes in the Blink of an Eye...Or Does It?

Miriam is a Saudi princess promised to another, a pawn in a political struggle that could shift the balance of power in the Middle East.

Seth is a certified genius with a head full of numbers, a life full of baggage, and an attitude born on the waves of the Pacific.

Cultures collide when they find themselves thrown together as fugitives in a high-stakes chase across Southern California. A growing attraction and a search for answers fuel their fight to survive...but with no sleep and a massive manhunt steadily closing in, their chances of surviving any future are razor thin.

Plot:

This book is different in many ways from Dekker’s other works that I have read. Mainly because the violence is not as extreme, but also because there’s no real twist to the story. However, this does not mean it’s not a good story. It is thrilling and intriguing. Dekker doesn’t always explain everything that happens in his books, but it never feels like he’s taking the easy way out, which is great. I like the writing style, the setting and basically everything about this story. I should just say that I have read some reviews on this book, and most of the negative ones seem to focus on the facts Dekker uses in this story being wrong, I don’t know if that’s true or not, and I don’t think it should be too big of an issue. I also don’t know how this book differs from the original*.

Characters:

I really connected with these characters. They’re not perfect, but they are good and you really root for them. I also thought that the two main characters had great chemistry and their romance is believable. I would’ve liked a little more insight into the villains, but I like that you do get some parts from his perspective. These characters are also different from Dekker’s thriller-book-characters, but they’re extremely likable.

Who should read this:

13+, mainly for violence, which is only really disturbing in one or two scenes, but is present. There is no language or sexual content, but the theme is partly political and it might bore young readers. If you want Christian fiction that doesn’t push religion down your throat this is definitely one I would recommend.

My rating:

This is not my favourite of Ted Dekker, but I really like the characters and the story and I couldn’t put the book down. 4/5

Quote:

Prayer may just be the most powerful tool mankind has.

*Just note that this book is a rewrite of ‘Blink’ by Ted Dekker and there are many differences. Dekker rewrote ‘Blink’ in order to turn it into a movie, but according to him the overall feel of the book is now a little different. So if you read ‘Blink’ then this review might not fit your opinion at all. I also do not know how many other plot lines and ideas were changed in this book.

Soul Harvest

Tim LaHaye & Jerry B. Jenkins

Left Behind #4

Summary:

Rayford Steele and Buck Williams have survived the wrath of the Lamb, a global earthquake in the twenty-first month of the Tribulation. As the world hurtles toward the Trumpet Judgments and the great soul harvest prophesied in Scripture, Rayford and Buck begin searching for their loved ones from different corners of the world.

Plot:

This installment, while better than the first ones weren’t as good as the previous one. It started of a little all over the place, and although that might have served a purpose the story only began moving forward after about 150 pages. After that it was pretty good, with more intrigue and suspense than I’ve come to expect from this series, as well as some funny moments which is always a good thing in a book with such a tragic theme.

Characters:

The characters do show some development in this installment and one or two of them even surprised me. I still don’t feel a personal connection to any of them, but I do like them and root for them while I’m reading. I still think the villian is a brilliant and extremely frightening character, but it didn’t come through as obviously in this book as it did in the previous ones.

Who should read this:

13+, there’s a lot of violence and the descriptions are pretty graphic. There are some references to sexual content, but it’s very mild and there is no language. If you liked all the previous books then you should like this one, but if you didn’t then don’t expect this one to be different.

My rating:

I enjoyed this installment, but it didn’t suck me in like the previous one, which I really liked. 3/5

Quote:

“He is no fool who gives up what he cannot keep [this temporal life] to gain what he cannot lose [eternal life with Christ].”

Nicolae

Jerry B. Jenkins & Tim LaHaye

Left Behind #3

Summary:

In Nicolae, the most explosive of the three books thus far, the seven-year tribulation is nearing the end of the first quarter, when prophecy says that “the wrath of the Lamb” will be poured out upon the earth. Rayford Steele becomes the ears of the tribulation saints at the highest levels of the Carpathia regime. Meanwhile, Buck Williams attempts a dramatic all-night rescue run from Israel through the Sinai that will hold you breathless to the end.

                             

Plot:

This book is definitely the best in the series so far. It was more thrilling than either of the other novels and is the first in the series that I couldn’t put down. Where I previously felt there was something missing I didn’t feel like that in this novel. Even though it didn’t have any twists or turns this one had enough action and suspense to make it captivating. I still felt like some of the writing could’ve been better, especially the dialogue (no one talks in such full sentences when they’re in mortal peril), but overall I really enjoyed reading this part of the series.

Characters:

I was hoping for a little more development in the main characters, but my opinion on them hasn’t changed much. I think they’re relatable and likable, but not extremely memorable. I do think that the villian is the best character (not the most likable, obviously, but the best as far as storytelling, description etc goes). He is really terrifying. I also liked that we see some more of the minor characters that were mentioned in the previous books.

Who should read this:

13+, for a lot of violence and some references to sexual things. If you enjoyed the previous books I definitely recommend this for you, I think it’s the best so far. If you didn’t like the previous installments...well don’t read this one...

My rating:

I really liked reading this book. I don’t think I’ll add it to my favorites, it wasn’t profound or incredible, but I didn’t feel like putting it down and I didn’t get bored so. 4/5

Quote:

'It was the worst of times; it was the worst of times.'

Here are the links to my reviews of the previous installments: Left Behind & Tribulation Force

Tribulation Force

Tim LaHaye & Jerry B. Jenkins

Left Behind #2

Summary:

In one cataclysmic moment, millions around the globe disappear.

Those left behind face war, famine, plagues, and natural disasters so devastating that only one in four people will survive. Odds are even worse for enemies of the Antichrist and his new world order.

Rayford Steele, Buck Williams, Bruce Barnes, and Chloe Steele band together to form the Tribulation Force. Their task is clear, and their goal is nothing less than to stand and fight the enemies of God during the seven most chaotic years the planet will ever see.

Plot:

I enjoyed this book more than the first in the series, maybe because I knew the characters and could sympathize with them more. However, I still felt like there was something missing from the story as a whole. The concept behind the book is fascinating, but the subject matter is depressing and I would’ve liked some more twists and turns to make it truly great. The story had many sad and scary parts, but there are enough lighter, happier moments to make it bearable.

Characters:

There aren’t very many new characters in this story. The old characters do grow a bit, but I feel like there could’ve been a bit more development. The ‘villain’ got even scarier in this installment as he starts shedding the ‘good, peace-loving guy’ mask he’d been hiding behind. I like all the main characters and I feel like they’re very relatable, but maybe a little generic at times.

Who should read this:

13+, the previous one I rated a 10, but I feel like the scary themes were more extreme in this installment. There are no language and almost no sexual content. If you enjoyed the first book read this one, but if you didn’t don’t bother, they’re very similar.

My rating:

I enjoyed this, but there are a lot of things I would’ve liked the authors to change so 3/5

Quote:

The odds are, only one of the four members of the Tribulation Force will survive the next seven years...

Read my review for the first book: 'Left Behind'.

House

Ted Dekker & Frank Peretti

Summary:

Frank Peretti and Ted Dekker – two of the most acclaimed writers of supernatural thrillers – have joined forces for the first time to craft a story unlike any you’ve ever read. Enter House – where you’ll find yourself thrown into a killer’s deadly game in which the only way to win is to lose...and the only way out is in.

One game. Seven Players. Three Rules. Game ends at dawn.

Plot:

First of all, I’m a big fan of Ted Dekker, and while I’ve only read one of Peretti’s novels I really enjoyed that too, so naturally I was expecting a lot from these two’s combined work. The story started of kind of confusing, and honestly I didn’t have any idea where the authors were going untill the last quarter of the book. At the start the story intrigued me, but I got bored in the middle with all the scary imagery, and just wanted the actual story to move along. It was terrifying and disturbing and creepy, yes, but I would’ve liked something more from the story instead of just horrifying things happening all the time. I did, however really like the ending, but I feel like these two could’ve done something more with the story. The twists weren’t surprising enough and I kind of guessed what was going to happen before it did, which is not something I look for in either of these writers' novels.

Characters:

The characters were pretty well handled. Even though all of them are very damaged, and even unlikable at times, you still root for them (this is something Dekker seems to have an aptitude for). Some of the characters are frightening, some are really disturbing (or just disturbed) and some are just normal people in extremely unusual situations. My favourite main character is undoubtedly Jack, because he is the truest and most likable of them all.

Who should read this:

16+, this book has some really creepy elements in it, and is also quite confusing. There is very little language or sexual content, but the violence and scary parts are really intense. I definitely don’t recommend this to anyone who is sensitive to things like that. If you enjoy thrillers, but want them to be clean (relatively speaking) you should definitely check out Dekker or Peretti’s stories, but I feel like there are better ones to choose from.

My rating:

While I didn’t hate this book, it disappointed me a bit and I feel like it could’ve been so much better. But, there were some parts that I really enjoyed so 3/5.

Quote:

The light came into the darkness, and the darkness did not understand it.

Left Behind

Tim LaHaye & Jerry B. Jenkins

Left Behind #1

Summary:

In one cataclysmic moment, millions around the globe disappear.

Vehicles, suddenly unmanned, careen out of control. People are terror stricken as loved ones vanish before their eyes.

In the midst of global chaos, airline captain Rayford Steele must search for his family, for answers, for truth. As devastating as the disappearances have been, the darkest days may lie ahead.

Plot:

This is definitely an interesting novel. Referencing the Bible-book Revelations, it tells the story of the end of the world. The setting of this novel makes it very believable, it’s set in the future, obviously, although it doesn’t give a specific date, and the world is much like we know it to be right now, except for some political differences. Some of the political parts were a bit hard for me to understand, but the basic story is very easy to follow and read. It’s not the best-written book in the world and I would’ve liked some more twists and turns instead of just the straight-forward story, but it kept me interested enough.

Characters:

The characters are all extremely believable and relatable. The main characters are pretty likable (the ones that are supposed to be) and the villain is extremely scary in a non-threatening, peace-loving kind of way (it makes sense if you’ve read the book). Except for the villain the characters are mostly just normal people in extreme circumstances, and I definitely liked them. The story is more important, I think, in this case, than the characters, and so I like that they’re not too complicated.

Who should read this:

10+, the violence is not overly graphic and there’s almost no sexual content and zero language. I don’t think this would interest very young people, as the story might get a little complicated for them, and also because it might be scary, since it is set in a world similar to ours, and is written as a sort of retelling of a book that I personally don’t consider fiction. If you like Christian fiction, and are interested in the end-times this is a quick and easy read that makes it a little more real and easy to imagine.

My rating:

I enjoyed reading this book. I won’t add it to my favourites because I wasn’t blown away by it. But it kept me interested. 4/5

Quote:

“I’m not crazy! See for yourself! All over the plane people have disappeared.

Hadassah: One Night with the King

Tommy Tenney

Summary:

Bestselling author Tommy Tenney expands the extraordinary story of Esther like no novelist has done before. Both a thriller and a Jewish woman's memoir, Hadassah takes readers to ancient Persia (now known as Iran), into the inner sanctum of the palace and back out into the war zones of battle and political intrigue. This gripping drama of a simple peasant girl chosen over many more qualified candidates to become Esther, Queen of Persia, captures the imagination and fires the emotions of men and women alike.

Plot:

This is an intriguing story, even for someone who knows the basics of it. It started off a little confusing, as there were two characters with the same name, but living in different times. It was a little hard to decide in what time-zone the story was being told, but it soon got easier as you started understanding what the author was doing. The story itself isn’t a new one, but based on the bible-book Esther. It had just enough historical content to make it authentic, but enough personal looks into the character’s thoughts & feelings to save it from being boring. The historical parts are also very well-written and exciting.

Characters:

It’s fascinating to see those well-known yet slightly vague characters come to life. While I don’t know how accurate the descriptions of these characters are, they are relatable, imperfect and yet they have a regal air about them that make them stand out.

Who should read this:

(16+) Mainly for very violent scenes, but also for quite a bit of sexual content (which is not extremely graphic, but implied and mentioned frequently throughout the book). If you enjoy historical, Christian fiction, this is definitely something I would recommend for you. This isn’t a light read, but it’s not hard.

My rating:

I really enjoyed this book. The violence was a little much for me, but I know it was necessary. The writing style was better than I expected and I wasn’t bored once...4/5

Quote:

I knew then that being chosen Queen was the only way my life – or his – would ever be made right. Beyond that, it was in YHWH’s hands.

The Atonement Child

Francine Rivers

Summary: 
In one horrific, terrifying moment, Dynah Carey’s perfect life is shattered by rape, her future irrevocably altered by an unwanted pregnancy, her doting family torn apart.

Her seemingly rock-solid faith is pushed to the limits as she faces the most momentous choice of her life-to embrace or to end the untimely life within her.

Plot:

This is a very good story, one that portrays a hopeless situation and yet gives hope. Francine is probably my favourite Christian fiction writer, because her books always come from the heart, and her writing and stories are all extremely honest. This is the second time I’ve read this particular story, and even though I knew exactly what was going to happen I still enjoyed reading it. That, to me, is a sign of a great book.

Characters:

The characters are all very relatable, even if you haven’t been in the same circumstances as they are. Dynah, the main character, is a good person, but she’s not too perfect to be believable, just the way a heroine should be. Joe, Dynah’s best friend, is probably my favourite character, coming from a violent background he turned his life around and is a loyal friend and an all-around good person. None of the characters are too good to be true, and none of them are completely hateful, which, if you’ve read my previous reviews you would know, is how I prefer these ‘realistic’-type books to be.

Who should read this:

13+, as this is a Christian fiction book, obviously there is no language or explicit content. However, the issues discussed in this book are violent and Francine is a very honest writer, as I’ve said before. She doesn’t describe everything in detail, but it’s enough to make this a book that will require a certain matureness, in my opinion. If you’ve been through something similar to Dynah’s story, this is definitely something I would recommend for you. Even if you haven’t been close to circumstances like this there are so many other issues addressed in this book that you will probably be able to relate to at least one of them.

My rating:

I loved this book the first time I read it, and the second time was no different. It’s not my favourite of Francine’s books, but it’s definitely higher up on the list. 4/5.

Quote:

“Everyone wanted to be the best. Best student. Best servant. Best Christian. They got caught up in it, pressing and pushing until they forgot whom it was they were trying to please.”

This Present Darkness

Frank Peretti

Darkness #1

Summary:

Ashton was not a big town, or important – just a name on the map. Yet it was here that three very different characters would face the hardest tests of their lives.

Marshall Hogan-an ex-city newspaper editor with an eye for a story and a nose for something rotten.

Hank Busche-the young pastor of  a small church in danger of tearing itself apart.

Tal-captain of the angelic warriors summoned to make a stand against an encroaching tide of evil and deception.

Each one fighting an enemy that was callous and clever, often hidden, never asleep. And each one needing the others more than any would dare to believe.

Plot:

This is an intriguing story. The little town and all it’s mysteries and secrets, now threatened by a force of demons, it’s all very interesting. The details and way the story comes together is wonderful. You can tell that the author really put a lot of thought into how his story will progress. It keeps you interested, answering questions and then posing new ones, keeping you guessing, but not to that annoying level some books tend to take it to. I would have liked a little more romance, or just chemistry between the characters, but I understand that that might have distracted from the actual story.

Characters:

The characters are all very interesting, but not the main focus of this book. They do develop, grow and learn, but the story is not about them, they make the story happen. I liked the ones I was supposed to like, and disliked the ones I should. There are a lot of characters, and it can be a bit confusing at the start, but you soon get to know them. I would have enjoyed some deeper insight into their thoughts and feelings, but they were all very good at making the story work.

Who should read this?

13+, there are some references to mature content, as well as quite a bit of violence, but none of it is very graphic. However, this is a Christian fiction book, and the whole demons vs. angels thing may not be everyone’s cup of tea. If you find that kind of thing interesting, then definitely read this book. This is not a light, quick read, so be warned, it may take up a bit of your time.

My rating:

I enjoyed this book, and the idea behind it. The writing was good, the storyline interesting etc. But I don’t think I’ll be adding it to my favorites. This is because I enjoy getting to know characters, their emotions and thoughts, when I read a book. And although I can totally appreciate this style of writing, it’s just not my personal favorite style. So based purely on that I’m giving it a 3/5

The Bride Collector

Ted Dekker

Summary:

FBI Special agent Brad Raines is facing his toughest case yet. A Denver serial killer has killed four beautiful young women, leaving a bridal veil at each crime scene, and he's picking up his pace. Unable to crack the case, Raines appeals for help from a most unusual source: residents of the Center for Wellness and Intelligence, a private psychiatric institution for mentally ill individuals who are extraordinarily gifted.

Plot:

Horrifyingly brilliant, sickeningly ingenious and terribly excellent, this book reels you in and ties you up so tightly you won’t be able to get away. The story had me scared and amazed and thrilled all the way through. The writing is incredible, I’m pretty sure Ted Dekker is a slightly insane genius, just like most of his characters…The symbolism and deeper meanings you could get out of this book are so many I’m not even going to try to explain them. This is an incredible, but horrific story.

Characters:

This book’s characters will have you questioning your own sanity, beliefs and ideas. The scary part is that while many of them are clinically insane you can still sort of relate to them. They are excellently portrayed and you find yourself appalled and enthralled by them.

Who should read this?

16+, this book scared me, and that doesn’t happen very often. The violence and sheer insanity of the ‘bad guy’ is so cruel and sick that I would definitely recommend caution, but aside from that there’s very little mature content. This is an excellent psychological thriller that will have your mind reeling, but it’s not an easy read. If you prefer something relaxing and simple, this is the wrong book for you. However, I will recommend this to anyone who are interested in psychology, or who likes books that will have you on the edge of your seat throughout.

My rating:

This is not my usual type of book, I found myself hating it and loving it at the same time, which was really confusing. The horrifying, terrible and cruel actions of the ‘bad guy’ terrified me, but this book is sheer genius. So I have no idea what to rate this right now…I’m giving it…a 4/5, the ending did it for me…

Quote:
“Everyone is a lonely victim of life's complexity.”

Thr3e

Ted Dekker

Summary:
Enter a world where nothing is what it seems. Where your closest friend could be your greatest enemy. Kevin Parson is driving his car late one summer day when, suddenly, his cell phone rings. A man who identifies himself as Slater speaks in a breathy voice: You have exactly three minutes to confess your sin to the world. Refuse, and the car you're driving will blow sky high.

Kevin panics. Who would make such a call? What sin? Kevin ditches the car. Precisely three minutes later, a massive explosion sets his world on a collision course with madness.

Plot:

This was an exceptionally good story that had my mind reeling. The author’s use of suspense throughout made this book impossible to put down. The pace was thrillingly fast, without one moment of nothing happening. Gripping! I could say a lot more, but I'm afraid of giving something away...So, read it!

Characters:

This book emphasized a belief I’ve had for a while, that no person on this planet is completely and utterly evil. The characters in this book are incredibly ‘fascinating’ (read the book to understand the quotation marks). You find yourself rooting for them and fearing for their lives, feeling sorry for some and loathing others.

Who should read this?

13+, only because this is a thriller. Some violence and strange behavior is the only mature content. This is not an easily understood story, so if you want something simple and straightforward, this isn’t the one for you. However if you’re looking for something that will stimulate your mind and make you see the world and people differently you should definitely read this one. If you like books that will hook you from page one and keep you on the edge of the seat this is perfect for you. I’ll recommend this to anyone interested in psychology and who likes thrillers.

My rating:

As you can see from my review (sorry about the raving, I just can’t find anything bad about this book) I loved this book! One of my new favorites and I will definitely be reading more of Dekker’s stories as soon as possible! 5/5

Quote:
“Though being freed from sin, most remain slaves, blinded and gagged by their own deception.”

The Hiding Place

Corrie ten Boom

Summary:
As the Nazi madness swept across Europe, a quiet

watchmakers family risked everything for the sake of others, and for the sake of Christ. Shadowed by danger and threat of discovery, they offered shelter to persecuted Jews. Then a trap brought the family’s arrest. Could God’s love shine through even in Ravensbruck? Corrie ten Boom’s personal story is an inspiration to millions.

Plot:

This is an incredible story, beautifully written that will have you crying over the tragedy and joy that comes with living. There are moments of terror, horror over what people can do to each other and moments of humor and happiness reminding us that there is always a silver lining. The story had me hooked from page one. Honestly incredible.

Characters:

The characters in this book are vibrantly human. Some not so likable, but we’re always reminded that, no matter how it may look, no person is ever completely and utterly evil. Corrie is a wonderful narrator, as the perfect example of a completely ordinary person. She’s by no means perfect and you find yourself experiencing her pain and joy throughout the book.

Who should read this?

13+, the violence and horror of the concentration camp may be too much for younger readers. Also not for very sensitive readers, the descriptions aren’t very graphic, but this book is extremely emotional. If you like books that make you cry, this is the one for you!

My rating: 
This was an amazingly written story that I couldn’t put down, definitely one  I will read again…I give it a 5/5

Quote:
“This is what the past is for! Every experience God gives us, every person He puts in our lives is the perfect preparation for the future that only He can see.”