Saint (2006)

Stunning part 2 of the Paradise series. The key issue is identity - who am I? Who is Carl? Who is Johnny? Who is Englishman? ( )

Ted Dekker's Paradise series is an enjoyable three-book read in typical Dekker style. There are several different Christian motifs sprinkled throughout the page turners. In all, the Paradise series is my favorite series by Dekker. This is the second book by publication date in the series. ( )

Saint, a novel by Ted Dekker, is the story of Carl. Carl is not your ordinary boy. He is a train assassin used by the X Group. The X Group uses memory wipes and different scenarios to make Carl the perfect killer. These do what they are supposed to, but they leave Carl wondering who he really is. The only person he can trust is Kelly. He sets out on an assassination attempt, but it fails. Carl has never failed. Now he doesn't know what to do, so he runs.

I really liked this book because it shows the struggles going on between good and evil. Also, Ted Dekker has a wry sense of humor that always leaves you wanting more. I have read many of his novels, but I think this one is the best. I love the plot, how it twists and turns, and also the suspense. It was a little dry at first, but overall, this is a superb book. ( )

A very good story that asks the question: Are you willing to accept being different and fulfill your role in this life despite possible alienation or fade into obscurity like so many others? The book focuses on a man that doesn't know who he really is. He is either Carl or Johnny but he must make the choice to fulfill his special destiny or run away to try to live a "normal" life. ( )

Typical Ted Dekker. The man can write a riveting action-packed story, complete with mystery and deception, but this story felt weak on the ending. It felt like Dekker had a bit of a hard time figuring out exactly to resolve this story and for the good guy to win - it felt forced. ( )