Saint: A Paradise Novel

I have read this book a few times now and absolutely love it. One thing to consider when reading this book or any of Ted Dekker's books, really, is that one book will usually tie into three or four of his other books as well. This one is no exception. Saint goes along with Sinner and Showdown in his Paradise series, but all three of them also tie into his Circle series, his youth series (The Books of History series - 6 books), and have a very small connection to the new series he is writing with Tosca Lee (Forbidden and Mortal so far). So for Saint, that's another 14 books that the characters of this one play at least a small role in. This book is just part of a bigger picture. I am pointing this out, because I noticed that some reviewers didn't rank this very high, because they didn't really know what was going on.Ted Dekker also deals with a lot of supernatural stuff that is sometimes hard to wrap your mind around, but he ultimately writes incredible stories that usually involve both good and evil. And as a warning... he pulls no punches with portraying what evil really entails. It is often very dark, sometimes incredibly graphic, and involves a multitude of emotions. I like the fact that he is very real about this, but that's certainly not for everyone.As for this book specifically, I would recommend it to anyone who loves his other books and also for anyone who enjoys a good fast-paced thriller. The emotional connections with the characters become very strong as the story grows and the concept of the book is intriguing as well. For someone who really wants to have a full grasp of this book's story, though, I would suggest first reading Showdown, as it is the prequel to this one. It will give a more detailed explanation of the events leading up to Saint and it really helps with understanding the storyline. For the conclusion of the whole series, Sinner is the final book. It wraps the story of Saint up nicely as well as the whole series.This is one of my favorite books by Ted Dekker and I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!

Many reviews here rave about the first half of Saint. With good reason, to be sure. The second half, however, hasn't been received at the same top-notch level. I believe it should, and here's why:Ted Dekker could write action, suspense and interesting characters until the cows finally do that cliche thing they do. But he doesn't settle for that. He reaches inside. Goes deep.The story of Carl is one that brings me, a man of faith, to tears. Through the plot, which is rich, textured and twisted, Carl is more than a man on a mission. He is a man reduced to a shell, trying to break out, trying to stay in -- it's an inward battle that I believe every human faces to differing degrees.That battle is the story's key, and Dekker rightly invests plenty of Saint to watching Carl play tug-of-war with himself. Smack dab in the middle of some pretty daunting circumstances I might add, too.Without Carl's revelations, Saint would be a good book. With them, it deserves five stars.Saint reads quickly and is rich in detail. More than any other author I've read, Dekker tells stories that resonate with what's inside the heart, the mind, the soul.Saint included.Note: I do agree that Saint is a better read after you've already read Showdown.

Great book. This book is great but not as great as the first book in the series. There are slow moments and the ending is kind of confusing but still a great book.

It started out decently strong and compelling, but captivating as the first half was, Dekker concluded Saint with a lackluster ending that needed further development.

Ted pulls in materials from at least 2 previous books - HOUSE and SHOWDOWN and weaves another fanatactic story of the battle between good and evil . I read it in 24 hours because it pulls you in and won't let go . He has excellent , believable characters and a great storyline . Now I'll ned to return to the prevous books and reread them . Keep up the good work , Ted !!

Absolutely wonderful series that will keep you on edge the entire time. Dekker does a fantastic job keeping you guessing!

I love Saint. I thought this was one of Ted Dekker's best books. It's full of suspense, fast-paced action, and great characters. If you haven't read Dekker's books you need to!!!! They all link together, which is one reason why I love his novels!

Ted, you never cease to amaze me sir! Great novel!

A really exciting fantasy world with clear lines between good and evil

okay