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The Books of Mortals #2
Mortal (The Books of Mortals)
Hope for humanity rests on the shoulders of a powerful teenager in this inspirational dystopian thriller by two New York Times–bestselling authors.
Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 2012
About the author
Ted Dekker
196 books10.1k followersTed Dekker is known for novels that combine adrenaline-laced stories with unexpected plot twists, unforgettable characters, and incredible confrontations between good and evil. Ted lives in Austin with his wife LeeAnn and their four children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 352 reviews
March 27, 2013
I like it but thought at times it was slow.
July 10, 2012
I'm really enjoying this new series. My only (very minor) complaint is that it has so much in common with the Circle Series... which is my all time favorite. Similarities in some characterization, and even some of the plot points and metaphors used. Again... this is a VERY minor complaint for me that I am stretching at in regards to finding something I have an issue with. And there is a very good reason why the main metaphor in regards to the character and actions of Jonathan are so similar to that of Justin in the Circle series. A VERY good reason. =) No spoilers here!
Fast paced as always, vintage cliff hanger chapter endings that can keep you up until 5am... what's not to enjoy? Great series that is definitely at a "what on earth will be next" feeling because of the twists and turns we are taken on. I found myself excited, then confused, then hopeful, then shocked...etc. A very thrilling emotional and adrenaline filled ride. Can't wait for "Sovereign"...
Fast paced as always, vintage cliff hanger chapter endings that can keep you up until 5am... what's not to enjoy? Great series that is definitely at a "what on earth will be next" feeling because of the twists and turns we are taken on. I found myself excited, then confused, then hopeful, then shocked...etc. A very thrilling emotional and adrenaline filled ride. Can't wait for "Sovereign"...
January 25, 2016
While I still love the post-apocalyptic world Dekker and Lee created, I found this one to be a little lacking compared to the first. I missed hearing more of Rom's voice. I was expecting to see more redemption for Feyne's character given her sacrifice. (I'm still hoping to see this in the last one with everything she has endured.) And unfortunately the messiah figure, Jonathan just didn't work for me. He was more on the wimpy side, which I guess could have been an intentional foil to the warrior-like nomadic figures he surrounded himself with who could use some of his meekness. Nevertheless, I didn't have as much emotional investment into his character. Consequently, I didn't really care what became of him (which I truly hate saying).
On the positive, Saric's developed into even more of an interesting character in this book. Dekker and Lee developed a wonderful nemesis in this man that you love to hate. There were some predictable elements in this book, but others at the end that took me by surprise.
In a nutshell: The duo's writing was still wonderful; I was simply a little more disappointed with this book. We have the last book in the series on our shelf, so I'll go to it next, hoping to see some redemption and loose ends tied in the last pages.
On the positive, Saric's developed into even more of an interesting character in this book. Dekker and Lee developed a wonderful nemesis in this man that you love to hate. There were some predictable elements in this book, but others at the end that took me by surprise.
In a nutshell: The duo's writing was still wonderful; I was simply a little more disappointed with this book. We have the last book in the series on our shelf, so I'll go to it next, hoping to see some redemption and loose ends tied in the last pages.
April 27, 2018
PRIMERA LECTURA 2017
3.5
Me confundía que las mujeres tenían nombre de hombre jajajja
SEGUNDA LECTURA 2018
4.0
Esta vez me gustó mucho más, creo que se debe a que le preste más atención xD
3.5
Me confundía que las mujeres tenían nombre de hombre jajajja
SEGUNDA LECTURA 2018
4.0
Esta vez me gustó mucho más, creo que se debe a que le preste más atención xD
June 3, 2012
Mortal is a tale that is wonderfully grand in scope, an epic novel that pits the forces of good against evil in a satisfying and gripping read. The scenes are painted in vivid and crisp detail, marching like a movie across the screen of your mind, and the plot is filled with twists and turns where you wonder who is good and who is evil. Indeed, by the end of the book I realized that nothing is as it seems, making the wait for the final book in the series rather unbearable as I wait to see what is actually going on! My only criticism of the book is that there seemed to be quite a lot of similarities between Ted Dekker's Circle series and Mortal in some of the plot elements and scenes. While the books are indeed supposed to be connected, I experienced perhaps too much of a sense of familiarity in some of what I was reading, rather than my usual awe at watching these authors unveil unexpected story lines. Again, though, the power in this book is watching the different characters come to life, and realizing that those characters who I assumed were good were not necessarily all that good after all. The novel is rich with symbolism, leaving me pondering what it means to be spiritually alive and spiritually dead, and the crazy power of love and the upside-down-nature of God's kingdom. As with Forbidden, readers should be warned that this book contains scenes of violence and blood being spilled, and so readers who usually shy away from such material may not find this book to be to their liking.
Fans of previous works by Ted Dekker and Tosca Lee will ultimately enjoy this well-crafted, superbly paced novel. I strongly recommend this book and award it 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Book has been provided courtesy of the publisher, Center Street, for the purposes of this unbiased review.
Fans of previous works by Ted Dekker and Tosca Lee will ultimately enjoy this well-crafted, superbly paced novel. I strongly recommend this book and award it 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Book has been provided courtesy of the publisher, Center Street, for the purposes of this unbiased review.
March 31, 2024
It's been a while since I've read Forbidden, and I don't remember all its details, which made some parts of Mortal a bit hard to understand. I nonetheless found it enjoyable; still, I think I'll wait until Mr. Dekker completes the series, and then read the entire allegorical saga from beginning to end.
EDIT: See my review of the entire trilogy here: http://rwlreviews.blogspot.com/2014/0...
EDIT: See my review of the entire trilogy here: http://rwlreviews.blogspot.com/2014/0...
October 27, 2019
Weird. I didn't get it and left it unfinished. Maybe it was because it was to long since I read the previous book or perhaps I just wasn't in the mood. I am going to move on
January 25, 2013
Mortal
By: Ted Dekker
Tosca Lee
This is a work of fiction by critically acclaimed and New York Times best selling author Ted Dekker and co-authored by Tosca Lee. This book is in the fantasy genre and is definitely similar to books like the Chronicles of Narnia or The Lord of the Rings trilogy. This book has many religious undertones, specifically of Christian beliefs. The entire story is essentially a symbolic representation of the life of Christ.
The book is set on Earth about 500 years into the future. However after the "Age of Chaos," which laid waste to world by way of nuclear war, all of today's modern technology was destroyed forever. Also a man made virus that was capable of destroying every human except for fear was released into the human population. Through this, a line of royalty, known as the Sovereign were capable of ruling what was left of the globe with the absolute power of fear.
The main character is named Rom. He is the strong willed leader of the Mortals. He is a great character that allows the reader to witness all the action of the book through a largely unbiased view point. This character aides the reader in understanding the big picture because, Rom is constantly thinking ahead and that allows the reader to consider the consequences of every decision made throughout the novel.
The main character Rom had, in the first book found a person who was meant to be the true Sovereign, his name was Jonathan and his blood was capable of returning all of the lost emotions to the people of the world. This character essentially symbolizes Jesus in that Jonathan is eventually killed, despite his innocence, and his spilt blood is utilized to bring "true life" to the "walking dead" of the earth.
The main antagonist throughout the course of the book is named Saric. He is the son of a former Sovereign, who through a series of scientific experiments discovered a type of synthetic serum that unlocks some of the emotions that humans formerly owned. However this serum is only capable of unlocking the negative side of any emotion, for example, hate, jealousy, anger, etc. Just as Jonathan is meant to symbolize Jesus, Saric is meant to symbolize Satan.
The main conflict occurs when Saric his army of genetically enhanced thugs against the forces of Jonathan. This helps the reader to understand the point of the novel, which is to point out the constant battle between the light side (Jonathan) and the dark side (Saric) of the human emotional and spiritual psyche.
This book is very similar to the novels by authors such as C.S. Lewis, and J.R.R. Tolkien in that the conflicts are between good and evil, light and darkness, in which there is no grey area to choose from. It points out that there is right and wrong and that these two opposing forces are constantly in conflict with one another.
By: Ted Dekker
Tosca Lee
This is a work of fiction by critically acclaimed and New York Times best selling author Ted Dekker and co-authored by Tosca Lee. This book is in the fantasy genre and is definitely similar to books like the Chronicles of Narnia or The Lord of the Rings trilogy. This book has many religious undertones, specifically of Christian beliefs. The entire story is essentially a symbolic representation of the life of Christ.
The book is set on Earth about 500 years into the future. However after the "Age of Chaos," which laid waste to world by way of nuclear war, all of today's modern technology was destroyed forever. Also a man made virus that was capable of destroying every human except for fear was released into the human population. Through this, a line of royalty, known as the Sovereign were capable of ruling what was left of the globe with the absolute power of fear.
The main character is named Rom. He is the strong willed leader of the Mortals. He is a great character that allows the reader to witness all the action of the book through a largely unbiased view point. This character aides the reader in understanding the big picture because, Rom is constantly thinking ahead and that allows the reader to consider the consequences of every decision made throughout the novel.
The main character Rom had, in the first book found a person who was meant to be the true Sovereign, his name was Jonathan and his blood was capable of returning all of the lost emotions to the people of the world. This character essentially symbolizes Jesus in that Jonathan is eventually killed, despite his innocence, and his spilt blood is utilized to bring "true life" to the "walking dead" of the earth.
The main antagonist throughout the course of the book is named Saric. He is the son of a former Sovereign, who through a series of scientific experiments discovered a type of synthetic serum that unlocks some of the emotions that humans formerly owned. However this serum is only capable of unlocking the negative side of any emotion, for example, hate, jealousy, anger, etc. Just as Jonathan is meant to symbolize Jesus, Saric is meant to symbolize Satan.
The main conflict occurs when Saric his army of genetically enhanced thugs against the forces of Jonathan. This helps the reader to understand the point of the novel, which is to point out the constant battle between the light side (Jonathan) and the dark side (Saric) of the human emotional and spiritual psyche.
This book is very similar to the novels by authors such as C.S. Lewis, and J.R.R. Tolkien in that the conflicts are between good and evil, light and darkness, in which there is no grey area to choose from. It points out that there is right and wrong and that these two opposing forces are constantly in conflict with one another.
August 18, 2012
Mortal
The Books of Mortals #2
by Ted Dekker & Tosca Lee
Nine years have passed since Feyn gave her life so that Jonathan might rule, bringing hope of life to the walking dead. But mere weeks before he is to take the title of Sovereign, rumors that threaten Jonathan's power are becoming fact. Dark Bloods are a new power that has arisen, still Corpse but with the emotions, strength, and speed of Mortals. When the Mortals capture a Dark Blood he reveals that he is alive because his Maker, Saric has made him so.
Saric believed to be dead these last nine years has come into the Senate Hall and proclaimed that he alone is alive. Then to the horror of all present he brings forth Feyn the Sovereign who was to be. He has removed Feyn from the stasis she was placed in after Book cut her down. Then before all present he fills her with his blood restoring her to life though in an altered condition. Saric proclaims Feyn Sovereign and then kills Rowan regent for Jonathan before the Senate Hall.
But how can Jonathan fulfill his purpose and his destiny if Feyn is Sovereign? Even more disturbing is Jonathan's erratic behavior. Is their savior truly who they think him to be or has their faith and hope been misplaced?
Rom and Book are convinced that Jonathan is who they have thought him to be. But the Nomads that they have joined with now think that they are the superior race, a benefit of Jonathan's blood.
Mortal is a compelling book. When what we believe should happen does not, does that mean our faith was misplaced? Or were we merely misinterpreting what we knew and the answer is just different than what we believed it was to be?
As with most of Dekker's books blood plays an important part. Blood is the force of change, but who controls that force? And who is to say what change is right and what is wrong? Who will you place your faith in? Your answer may determine your future!
Book 3 Sovereign is scheduled for Spring 2013!
The Books of Mortals #2
by Ted Dekker & Tosca Lee
Nine years have passed since Feyn gave her life so that Jonathan might rule, bringing hope of life to the walking dead. But mere weeks before he is to take the title of Sovereign, rumors that threaten Jonathan's power are becoming fact. Dark Bloods are a new power that has arisen, still Corpse but with the emotions, strength, and speed of Mortals. When the Mortals capture a Dark Blood he reveals that he is alive because his Maker, Saric has made him so.
Saric believed to be dead these last nine years has come into the Senate Hall and proclaimed that he alone is alive. Then to the horror of all present he brings forth Feyn the Sovereign who was to be. He has removed Feyn from the stasis she was placed in after Book cut her down. Then before all present he fills her with his blood restoring her to life though in an altered condition. Saric proclaims Feyn Sovereign and then kills Rowan regent for Jonathan before the Senate Hall.
But how can Jonathan fulfill his purpose and his destiny if Feyn is Sovereign? Even more disturbing is Jonathan's erratic behavior. Is their savior truly who they think him to be or has their faith and hope been misplaced?
Rom and Book are convinced that Jonathan is who they have thought him to be. But the Nomads that they have joined with now think that they are the superior race, a benefit of Jonathan's blood.
Mortal is a compelling book. When what we believe should happen does not, does that mean our faith was misplaced? Or were we merely misinterpreting what we knew and the answer is just different than what we believed it was to be?
As with most of Dekker's books blood plays an important part. Blood is the force of change, but who controls that force? And who is to say what change is right and what is wrong? Who will you place your faith in? Your answer may determine your future!
Book 3 Sovereign is scheduled for Spring 2013!
February 7, 2016
¡Por fin acabé el libro!
Después de 4 semanas, 1 bloqueo y una de interrupción para releer un libro que no me convenció tanto.
Odié este libro al principio, por lo tedioso que se me hizo; aunque al final reconozco que no es tan malo, que la historia ni su construcción no es nada hueca. De hecho el mundo planteado en a primera parte es recordado varias veces y eso me gustó.
Los personajes juegan papeles muy similares a los de la Serie del Círculo, pero es de esperarse entendiendo que lo que Dekker trata de hacer siempre es dar el mensaje que da la Biblia (los más que pueda), pero he de reconocer que los matices cambian para algunos como Jonathan/Justin, Feyn/Johan (sólo que lo de Jonathan sí me pareció muy triste #PorqueJoven). Por extensión, también la historia tiene prácticamente el mismo mensaje; aunque con lo iniciado en Prohibido no esperaba que la historia tomara este rumbo. Rumbo que no me desagradó, pero tampoco considero innovador (coff, coff Rojo). Espero que en Soberano la historia tome un mejor rumbo que en Blanco (aunque pienso que también va a haber un "rescate" como en éste).
Decido no darle rating por todos los conflictos que tuve para leerlo y porque reconozco que no es una historia hueca y "mágica"; es inteligente, seria, con un rumbo y significado (obvio hay que terminar la serie para terminar de entender esto último).
Después de 4 semanas, 1 bloqueo y una de interrupción para releer un libro que no me convenció tanto.
Odié este libro al principio, por lo tedioso que se me hizo; aunque al final reconozco que no es tan malo, que la historia ni su construcción no es nada hueca. De hecho el mundo planteado en a primera parte es recordado varias veces y eso me gustó.
Los personajes juegan papeles muy similares a los de la Serie del Círculo, pero es de esperarse entendiendo que lo que Dekker trata de hacer siempre es dar el mensaje que da la Biblia (los más que pueda), pero he de reconocer que los matices cambian para algunos como Jonathan/Justin, Feyn/Johan (sólo que lo de Jonathan sí me pareció muy triste #PorqueJoven). Por extensión, también la historia tiene prácticamente el mismo mensaje; aunque con lo iniciado en Prohibido no esperaba que la historia tomara este rumbo. Rumbo que no me desagradó, pero tampoco considero innovador (coff, coff Rojo). Espero que en Soberano la historia tome un mejor rumbo que en Blanco (aunque pienso que también va a haber un "rescate" como en éste).
Decido no darle rating por todos los conflictos que tuve para leerlo y porque reconozco que no es una historia hueca y "mágica"; es inteligente, seria, con un rumbo y significado (obvio hay que terminar la serie para terminar de entender esto último).
June 26, 2012
(I'm going to start with my negative comments. I did like the book, read on for the positive) *RING* Uh, Ted Dekker, the circle series called...IT WANT'S ITS STORY LINE BACK!!!! There were so many of the same things in this book that were in the Circle. I won't go into them, though I want to, because I hate reviews with spoilers.
*POSITIVE* This book was a lot better than the first one! It was a little faster paced(not quite fast enough), it had more action, and it was more enjoyable! I give it 3 stars instead of 4 because of lack of originality. There was a lot of symbolism in the book, and that was cool to decipher. I even found a new favorite character! I like the blook aspect in the book and the 4 factions of society, it makes it more complex, and thus more fascinating.
All in all, I would recommend the book. Though I don't think anyone younger than 13 or 14 should read this series (mainly because of one character).
*POSITIVE* This book was a lot better than the first one! It was a little faster paced(not quite fast enough), it had more action, and it was more enjoyable! I give it 3 stars instead of 4 because of lack of originality. There was a lot of symbolism in the book, and that was cool to decipher. I even found a new favorite character! I like the blook aspect in the book and the 4 factions of society, it makes it more complex, and thus more fascinating.
All in all, I would recommend the book. Though I don't think anyone younger than 13 or 14 should read this series (mainly because of one character).
July 20, 2012
Congrats, guys...you have succeeded in making me cry like a little girl.
I would have given this five stars if not for the plethora of mistakes I came across while reading. Spelling errors were quite prolific, and portions of the story contradicted each other (Like how it was stated that Roland only had daughters, and then on the very next page it said he had a son. What?). But overall, the story was still good. I found the theme of sacrificial love especially moving; and echoes of the Holocaust added an eerie touch.
That being said, I look forward to reading Sovereign, the next and final novel of the Books of Mortals trilogy when it is released next year. I only hope Ted and Tosca catch more of their typos before the novel goes to print!
I would have given this five stars if not for the plethora of mistakes I came across while reading. Spelling errors were quite prolific, and portions of the story contradicted each other (Like how it was stated that Roland only had daughters, and then on the very next page it said he had a son. What?). But overall, the story was still good. I found the theme of sacrificial love especially moving; and echoes of the Holocaust added an eerie touch.
That being said, I look forward to reading Sovereign, the next and final novel of the Books of Mortals trilogy when it is released next year. I only hope Ted and Tosca catch more of their typos before the novel goes to print!
November 6, 2012
From reviews of others who read the first book in the series "Forbidden", it sounds like most thought it was very good. Unfortunately I did not read Forbidden, and I honestly could not make it past page 45. Neil Gaman, Pathrick Rothfuss and George R. R. Martin have completely spoiled me with their incredibly developed characters and rich storylines. I found this writing dry and boring. Maybe I'll start over with the series and read Forbidden.
February 5, 2013
The story is brilliant. The plot is fast-paced and emotionally charged. The character of Jonathan broke my heart. My only disappointment was the spelling/grammar mistakes. Once is an accident. Twice is forgivable. Five + is just embarrassing. Certainly not a reason to never pick this book up but...come on! There's an editor somewhere not doing their job.
March 14, 2013
It's a decent book, just not my usual type of book. I like more modern day books. Plus there was one particular issue with the plot that was not discussed, but which would have ended the main conflict in my mind since it wasn't discussed. Anyway. I don't think I'll read the final book in the series.
July 23, 2016
Reseña completa
Definitivamente más oscuro y profundo que
.
Espero leer pronto
Definitivamente más oscuro y profundo que
.Espero leer pronto
Did Not Finish
September 17, 2016Got halfway done with this and just cannot read any more right now. I am so bored!! The story line was just too hard to follow and I found myself getting lost as to what was going on. It's disappointing because I loved the first book. :/ I'm not sure if I'll ever finish this or just go to book three...or skip finishing this series altogether.
April 9, 2018
Oh boy, it is the same book as the first. The book draaaaags. I am still dumbfounded at the use of underground "tube" I am only assuming old subways that get the black bloods through to the death camps but the horse as the primary mode of transportation for the sovereign and bro. I actually appreciate the story and the ideas but I am pulled out of the story by so many little things like this. The idea that there are subways but they still use lights (candelabras- great Scott, that word is waaay overused in both books. Sorry if I pointed that out to you and it drives you as batty as it did me!)
The Jonathan aspect is weary, are you trying to make him like Christ? I mean if I had to do a literary analysis of this book I would say yes, but then NO because well I don't want to add spoilers. I finished this book and am struggling to decide if I want to invest this much time in the last... I just want it to move at a much faster pace... this book CRAWLS along. SOOOOO decisions, decisions. It is a weird book but that is part of the charm. Maybe I will read something else and come back to this one. ALL honesty, it is a good story it just needs the pace picked up! I honestly think I could have skipped like 75-100 pages and still gotten everything I needed to follow the story. I hate this because I really want to know how it ends but so much time invested in slow books... Who are we kidding I don't quit on a book series -- well I have on ONE but only one and I am so glad I did. I will read the last one in the series I just pray it moves a little faster!
The Jonathan aspect is weary, are you trying to make him like Christ? I mean if I had to do a literary analysis of this book I would say yes, but then NO because well I don't want to add spoilers. I finished this book and am struggling to decide if I want to invest this much time in the last... I just want it to move at a much faster pace... this book CRAWLS along. SOOOOO decisions, decisions. It is a weird book but that is part of the charm. Maybe I will read something else and come back to this one. ALL honesty, it is a good story it just needs the pace picked up! I honestly think I could have skipped like 75-100 pages and still gotten everything I needed to follow the story. I hate this because I really want to know how it ends but so much time invested in slow books... Who are we kidding I don't quit on a book series -- well I have on ONE but only one and I am so glad I did. I will read the last one in the series I just pray it moves a little faster!
January 28, 2014
It took me some time to figure out how to rate this one. Two stars, or three? I finally settled for 2.5, rounded up.
After the wonderful ride that was Forbidden, I was really looking forward to Mortal. And for the first few chapters, it did not disappoint. However, it wasn't long before the book and I ran into some disagreements. I shall express them in dialogue form.
BOOK: When we last left our heroes, they had discovered the One, the boy to bring the world back to life. Now, nine years have passed. The boy's blood has awakened about twelve hundred Nomads and city folk who now call themselves Mortals. These Mortals live a wild life, full of emotion and all the joy and pain that comes with it.
ME: Awesome! Can I get some more of Triphon? I loved him in the first book.
BOOK: Well—no. Actually, he'll have one scene with Rom before he dies. But here's Roland. He's a tough and jingoistic Nomad prince who doesn't give a flip what anyone thinks of him. He just goes on being awesome with the superpowers Jonathan's blood gave him.
ME: Ooh, me likey! Wait—superpowers? I thought blood returned human emotion.
BOOK: It does that too, but it also gives Mortals superpowers. Superior perception, reflexes, longer life span, that sort of thing.
ME: Um, I don't think that makes any sense, but it's so awesome I don't really care.
BOOK: I've also got Dark Bloods. They're what Saric made once he came out of stasis, killed Pravus, and used some sort of secret thing to give himself true emotion and super strength. But all of his emotions are skewed in a negative direction. He's used his blood to give others the same life he has, stripping them of their free will in the process.
ME: Sounds like Saric. Man, I hate that guy.
BOOK: Feyn becomes a Dark Blood.
ME: WHAT? NOOOOOOOOO
BOOK: Yeah, Saric wakes her from stasis and turns her into a Dark Blood against her will. But that doesn't really matter since he strips her of her own and proceeds to act like the most abusive boyfriend you will ever meet.
ME: So he essentially mind-rapes her into loving him? That's really creepy.
BOOK: Glad you think that. It's supposed to be creepy.
ME: Does Feyn find a way to overcome that? I loved her in the first book, and I want to cry when I think about what Saric has done to her.
BOOK: Well, there's one point where it looks like she's come around….
ME: Yay!
BOOK: …but it turns out to be a sham.
ME: No.
BOOK: Yeah. Turns out Jonathan wasn't trying to turn her back onto the right path at all. He was just showing her what her future would hold. He actually wanted her to turn Judas Iscariot on him. Everything she did that made it seem like she was coming around? That was actually supposed to be bad.
ME: But you said Jonathan told her to do all those things.
BOOK: Looks that way.
ME: Wait—why would the Christ figure TELL Feyn to betray him?
BOOK: Because that's what Jesus did with Judas.
ME: ...
BOOK: Don't you remember? Jesus looked Judas in the eye and said "Do it quickly." That meant Jesus WANTED Judas to betray him, since He knew it would further his plan.
ME: Um, book?
BOOK: See, Jesus' purpose was to die. That was the plan all along. And Judas fulfilled that plan by betraying Jesus, just like Feyn fulfilled Jonathan's plan by handing him over to Saric.
ME: Book?
BOOK: And then Saric kills Jonathan because Jonathan asks him to. And by submitting to Jonathan's will, Saric's entire outlook on life is rewritten!
ME: So…by submitting to Jonathan's will in betraying him, Feyn breaks free of Saric's mind control?
BOOK: Sort of. She becomes the new Saric.
ME: wut
BOOK: Yeah! Feyn becomes the new Saric and Saric becomes the new Feyn! It's poetic.
ME: Okay. So let me get this allegory straight. Feyn is Judas and Saric is Satan. Both submit to Jonathan's will in handing him over to be killed and in killing him. But since Jonathan showed Feyn the truth BEFORE she handed him over, the act of handing him over makes her more evil. Never mind that Saric stripped Feyn of her free will. Whereas Saric's act of submission makes him better, because he didn't know the truth before he killed Jonathan. So Satan is freed from his self-made prison by killing Jesus, but Judas goes further into it by handing Jesus over to be killed.
BOOK: Exactly!
ME: Book, I don't know WHAT Bible translation you're using, but I think it's the wrong one. I've read the crucifixion story in everything from King James to the Message, and I NEVER got that interpretation.
BOOK: But it makes sense, doesn't it?
ME: Not so much. All it makes is bad theology.
BOOK: What do you mean? My theology is fantastic!
ME: No, it's not. See, according to you, it's okay to literally kill Jesus, so long as you haven't seen the truth up to that point. But if you've seen the truth and Jesus ASKS you to sin—never mind that God doesn't tempt people to sin and Jesus is God—He'll still punish you for it. It doesn't matter if Satan strips you of your free will first. You did the wrong thing and you deserve to be punished.
BOOK: Well, you have to admit my comparison between Sovereigns and Christians and Mortals and Jews is good theology.
ME: The only thing I'll admit is that it's a crappy deal.
BOOK: No, it's a GREAT deal! Jonathan lives in the Sovereigns and the Sovereigns are more in tune with each other and the world!
ME: They lose all their Mortal powers and they die young. That SUCKS.
BOOK: But—but—the theology!
ME: Sucks. Your theology sucks. The entire book of Hebrews is about how Christianity is better than Judaism, but according to you, Judaism is a million times cooler, but we still need to embrace Christianity because it's right. That is terrible theology.
BOOK: I—well—you just don't appreciate me for who I am!
ME: I wanted to appreciate you, but then you got all weird on me.
BOOK: C'mon, at least read my sequel!
ME: I don't know….
BOOK: The theology might be better!
ME: *sigh* Oh, very well. But your sequel had better not disappoint.
BOOK: No promises.
After the wonderful ride that was Forbidden, I was really looking forward to Mortal. And for the first few chapters, it did not disappoint. However, it wasn't long before the book and I ran into some disagreements. I shall express them in dialogue form.
BOOK: When we last left our heroes, they had discovered the One, the boy to bring the world back to life. Now, nine years have passed. The boy's blood has awakened about twelve hundred Nomads and city folk who now call themselves Mortals. These Mortals live a wild life, full of emotion and all the joy and pain that comes with it.
ME: Awesome! Can I get some more of Triphon? I loved him in the first book.
BOOK: Well—no. Actually, he'll have one scene with Rom before he dies. But here's Roland. He's a tough and jingoistic Nomad prince who doesn't give a flip what anyone thinks of him. He just goes on being awesome with the superpowers Jonathan's blood gave him.
ME: Ooh, me likey! Wait—superpowers? I thought blood returned human emotion.
BOOK: It does that too, but it also gives Mortals superpowers. Superior perception, reflexes, longer life span, that sort of thing.
ME: Um, I don't think that makes any sense, but it's so awesome I don't really care.
BOOK: I've also got Dark Bloods. They're what Saric made once he came out of stasis, killed Pravus, and used some sort of secret thing to give himself true emotion and super strength. But all of his emotions are skewed in a negative direction. He's used his blood to give others the same life he has, stripping them of their free will in the process.
ME: Sounds like Saric. Man, I hate that guy.
BOOK: Feyn becomes a Dark Blood.
ME: WHAT? NOOOOOOOOO
BOOK: Yeah, Saric wakes her from stasis and turns her into a Dark Blood against her will. But that doesn't really matter since he strips her of her own and proceeds to act like the most abusive boyfriend you will ever meet.
ME: So he essentially mind-rapes her into loving him? That's really creepy.
BOOK: Glad you think that. It's supposed to be creepy.
ME: Does Feyn find a way to overcome that? I loved her in the first book, and I want to cry when I think about what Saric has done to her.
BOOK: Well, there's one point where it looks like she's come around….
ME: Yay!
BOOK: …but it turns out to be a sham.
ME: No.
BOOK: Yeah. Turns out Jonathan wasn't trying to turn her back onto the right path at all. He was just showing her what her future would hold. He actually wanted her to turn Judas Iscariot on him. Everything she did that made it seem like she was coming around? That was actually supposed to be bad.
ME: But you said Jonathan told her to do all those things.
BOOK: Looks that way.
ME: Wait—why would the Christ figure TELL Feyn to betray him?
BOOK: Because that's what Jesus did with Judas.
ME: ...
BOOK: Don't you remember? Jesus looked Judas in the eye and said "Do it quickly." That meant Jesus WANTED Judas to betray him, since He knew it would further his plan.
ME: Um, book?
BOOK: See, Jesus' purpose was to die. That was the plan all along. And Judas fulfilled that plan by betraying Jesus, just like Feyn fulfilled Jonathan's plan by handing him over to Saric.
ME: Book?
BOOK: And then Saric kills Jonathan because Jonathan asks him to. And by submitting to Jonathan's will, Saric's entire outlook on life is rewritten!
ME: So…by submitting to Jonathan's will in betraying him, Feyn breaks free of Saric's mind control?
BOOK: Sort of. She becomes the new Saric.
ME: wut
BOOK: Yeah! Feyn becomes the new Saric and Saric becomes the new Feyn! It's poetic.
ME: Okay. So let me get this allegory straight. Feyn is Judas and Saric is Satan. Both submit to Jonathan's will in handing him over to be killed and in killing him. But since Jonathan showed Feyn the truth BEFORE she handed him over, the act of handing him over makes her more evil. Never mind that Saric stripped Feyn of her free will. Whereas Saric's act of submission makes him better, because he didn't know the truth before he killed Jonathan. So Satan is freed from his self-made prison by killing Jesus, but Judas goes further into it by handing Jesus over to be killed.
BOOK: Exactly!
ME: Book, I don't know WHAT Bible translation you're using, but I think it's the wrong one. I've read the crucifixion story in everything from King James to the Message, and I NEVER got that interpretation.
BOOK: But it makes sense, doesn't it?
ME: Not so much. All it makes is bad theology.
BOOK: What do you mean? My theology is fantastic!
ME: No, it's not. See, according to you, it's okay to literally kill Jesus, so long as you haven't seen the truth up to that point. But if you've seen the truth and Jesus ASKS you to sin—never mind that God doesn't tempt people to sin and Jesus is God—He'll still punish you for it. It doesn't matter if Satan strips you of your free will first. You did the wrong thing and you deserve to be punished.
BOOK: Well, you have to admit my comparison between Sovereigns and Christians and Mortals and Jews is good theology.
ME: The only thing I'll admit is that it's a crappy deal.
BOOK: No, it's a GREAT deal! Jonathan lives in the Sovereigns and the Sovereigns are more in tune with each other and the world!
ME: They lose all their Mortal powers and they die young. That SUCKS.
BOOK: But—but—the theology!
ME: Sucks. Your theology sucks. The entire book of Hebrews is about how Christianity is better than Judaism, but according to you, Judaism is a million times cooler, but we still need to embrace Christianity because it's right. That is terrible theology.
BOOK: I—well—you just don't appreciate me for who I am!
ME: I wanted to appreciate you, but then you got all weird on me.
BOOK: C'mon, at least read my sequel!
ME: I don't know….
BOOK: The theology might be better!
ME: *sigh* Oh, very well. But your sequel had better not disappoint.
BOOK: No promises.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 19, 2023
This #2 in the Book of Mortals series was...a bit boring compared to the bang off start in book #1. It seems there's a lot of set up for a big finale.
It's now 9 years later and Jonathan is set to be a legal sovereign. However, there is dissention in the ranks and are their double agents? Will the good blood prevail and live? The beginning and the end were the best parts. The middle kind of dragged.
Consistent narrator that is really good.
It's now 9 years later and Jonathan is set to be a legal sovereign. However, there is dissention in the ranks and are their double agents? Will the good blood prevail and live? The beginning and the end were the best parts. The middle kind of dragged.
Consistent narrator that is really good.
December 25, 2017
Not having read Forbidden, I had to go back and get a bit of the backstory before I could dive into this book. Initially, I was on the fence and tempted to stop reading it but around mid-way through, I found myself engaged in the storyline. I've already placed on hold on the third book in the series so that I can follow the storyline to it's end. Symbolism and human psychology combine.
January 20, 2024
Well fairly graphic, this book was thrilling and simply amazing. It had me both laughing and crying relentlessly. I wish that it slowed down a little so I could understand the characters better, but overall I did enjoy it.
February 2, 2023
Good, but very predictable because of genre. Meaning it is pretty much a reframing and retelling of the gospel & Christ's story with different names and things that happened. I think I like the Circle series (also by Ted Dekker) better though, as it has more depth & creativeness to the story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 5, 2014
I so wish I could say this book was well worth the read, since the first one was such a good book. However, this one lacked the luster that the previous one had. Nothing stood out to me that would make me rethink the way I walk with God. I think this book had the potential to make me rethink the way I live, if the people in the story would have talked in plain English so I could have understood them thoroughly. Instead, the characters talked about things that seemed quite important, but said it in ways that just zoomed right over my head!
On top of that, most of their actions were a bit crazy! I knew going into the novel that Ted Dekker's characters are usually out of the norm and seem to be a bit mental, but usually their is a reason behind that. In this book it just seemed unnecessary, and their actions went far beyond how they acted in Forbidden. I don't think a persons personality and the way they speak is going to completely change in a few years, in that case ever.
Furthermore, a lot of this story was repetitive. I felt like I was having deja-vu, but NO, they just kept on having the same conversations! It just seemed like a whole bunch of planning, instead of taking action, which their was very little of!
Most of the characters had terrible morals, even the Mortals. Their was a scene where, even though not terribly long, it showed how sexual and unscrupulous they, being the mortals, were. I was most of all mad at the leader of the mortals... Concubines? Are we really going back to that? This man was supposed to show honor, respect, and most of all LEADERSHIP! So now he's condoning sexual behavior that's NOT between a man and a wife??? I know people had concubines in the bible, but it also clearly states in the bible that it is a SIN!
And here is the thing that peeved me off the most.
I am sad to say that I would recommend skipping this book if you are reading the series. It's not worth the read in my opinion, which is a complete shocker based just upon who wrote it. This was not all what I was expecting for a sequel, and I am extremely disappointed.
Please visit my blog for more reviews: http://kissedbooks.blogspot.com/
On top of that, most of their actions were a bit crazy! I knew going into the novel that Ted Dekker's characters are usually out of the norm and seem to be a bit mental, but usually their is a reason behind that. In this book it just seemed unnecessary, and their actions went far beyond how they acted in Forbidden. I don't think a persons personality and the way they speak is going to completely change in a few years, in that case ever.
Furthermore, a lot of this story was repetitive. I felt like I was having deja-vu, but NO, they just kept on having the same conversations! It just seemed like a whole bunch of planning, instead of taking action, which their was very little of!
Most of the characters had terrible morals, even the Mortals. Their was a scene where, even though not terribly long, it showed how sexual and unscrupulous they, being the mortals, were. I was most of all mad at the leader of the mortals... Concubines? Are we really going back to that? This man was supposed to show honor, respect, and most of all LEADERSHIP! So now he's condoning sexual behavior that's NOT between a man and a wife??? I know people had concubines in the bible, but it also clearly states in the bible that it is a SIN!
And here is the thing that peeved me off the most.
I am sad to say that I would recommend skipping this book if you are reading the series. It's not worth the read in my opinion, which is a complete shocker based just upon who wrote it. This was not all what I was expecting for a sequel, and I am extremely disappointed.
Please visit my blog for more reviews: http://kissedbooks.blogspot.com/
January 15, 2013
In general terms Mortal is the second book in a series that is a continuation of a previous series of books Ted Dekker wrote but a few hundred years into the future. The story starts with the Nomad prince Roland and and his sister Michael who are known as Mortals as they plot an assault on a bar to rescue their cousin Maro who has been abducted by a new kind of enemy that are almost as strong as they are which is a big problem because no one other than the Mortals are supposed to be as strong and agile as themselves. When they report back to Rom who is the leader of the Mortals they learn that the current Sovereign, Saric, who is the brother of the last Sovereign, Feyn, who gave her life so that Johnathan could come to power as the rightful Sovereign and rescue a world that has been stripped of all emotion has been creating an army to eventually crush the Mortals before they can bring Johnathan to power. When Saric brings Feyn back to life it throws the whole the succession of Sovereigns into chaos because if Feyn dies again, Saric will rule and not Johnathan. On top of that, one of the Mortal scientists is learning that by the time Johnathan takes power his blood will not be able to bring anyone back to life which is what was believed to be his destiny. The book ends with a showdown between the Mortals and Saric's army known as the Darkbloods and a huge revelation about Johnathan's blood that will make you beg the writer to hurry up his writing of the third book. In usual Ted Dekker fashion he does a wonderful job of plot and character development. He also does an exemplary job of describing the senses and emotions during important plot points. The pacing of the book is always in an upward slope, getting better and better until he drops a bombshell at the end of the book that changes everything. I would recommend this book for anyone that loves deep story plots and are not afraid to get involved with a big series to really get the most out of it. If you'd like a book/series that is a mix of the Percy Jackson series and believe it or not the Twilight series these are for you.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 15, 2021
Deseando iniciar Soberano. Excelente trama!
January 10, 2013
I loved the first book in this series, but I enjoyed this one even more. There is just something about fiction that parallels the redemptive work of Christ that always inspires me. The world Dekker and Lee created when they wrote this series is compelling and symbolic in a number of ways. I found myself pondering the redemptive meaning of Christ's sacrifice and the use of His blood for our atonement in a deeper way because of this book. I also saw in the story how deception hardens the heart and at the same time how intense and overwhelming our Savior's love is for mankind despite our many flaws.
I found the theology to be pretty deep in this parallel world. This is often true in any of Dekker and Lee's books. They are a perfect match when it comes to creating fiction that speaks to the heart. I found the speech given by Jonathan to be inspiring and insightful. He had a lot to say about life and the difference between being alive - as in body and soul - versus accepting his life's blood and all of the implications that would result from that choice. Several scenes were very emotional and intense. I am eagerly anticipating the third book in the series. The last few pages had some twists that made me glad I wouldn't have to wait long to read Sovereign, which releases in a few months.
I found the theology to be pretty deep in this parallel world. This is often true in any of Dekker and Lee's books. They are a perfect match when it comes to creating fiction that speaks to the heart. I found the speech given by Jonathan to be inspiring and insightful. He had a lot to say about life and the difference between being alive - as in body and soul - versus accepting his life's blood and all of the implications that would result from that choice. Several scenes were very emotional and intense. I am eagerly anticipating the third book in the series. The last few pages had some twists that made me glad I wouldn't have to wait long to read Sovereign, which releases in a few months.
June 20, 2012
Have you ever come across a novel that is so wonderful you cannot come up with a single word to describe its beauty? Mortal, the second installment in the Books of Mortals Trilogy by Ted Dekker and Tosca Lee is that book. The story is so beautiful and intricately woven that it seems that the reader becomes a part of the story.
Throughout this entire novel I was struck by how wonderfully it was written. Often times co-authored novels come out poorly and sub-par. Ted Dekker and Tosca Lee go against the flow of the book world, though! They’ve produced a book so fantastic that it had me in its grasp until the very end.
If you thought Forbidden, the first installment of the series, was good, be prepared to be awestruck and blown away! Mortal took all of the good things from Forbidden and intensified them! This novel is not only great in its story, it is an all around betterbook than Forbidden!
Mortal has become my new favorite Dekker book, as well as my new favorite Lee book! To all those people who have said that Ted’s works are declining in their… I guess you could say “awesomeness”… you will be left happy as a clam by the end of Mortal!
This book was amazing. I truly cannot wait for Sovereign to release in Spring of 2013!
Throughout this entire novel I was struck by how wonderfully it was written. Often times co-authored novels come out poorly and sub-par. Ted Dekker and Tosca Lee go against the flow of the book world, though! They’ve produced a book so fantastic that it had me in its grasp until the very end.
If you thought Forbidden, the first installment of the series, was good, be prepared to be awestruck and blown away! Mortal took all of the good things from Forbidden and intensified them! This novel is not only great in its story, it is an all around betterbook than Forbidden!
Mortal has become my new favorite Dekker book, as well as my new favorite Lee book! To all those people who have said that Ted’s works are declining in their… I guess you could say “awesomeness”… you will be left happy as a clam by the end of Mortal!
This book was amazing. I truly cannot wait for Sovereign to release in Spring of 2013!
July 16, 2012
This is one of the most emotionally jarring books that I've read in a long time. Of course, since one of the major themes of the series is the role of emotion in determining what is truly "life", this shouldn't be surprising. I'm not the kind of person to get upset over books, but I was seriously distressed by the last few chapters.
I still don't really understand what when on during the last 50 pages, even after reading them twice, so I suppose that I'll just have to wait until Sovereign is released to be able to understand what happened and to relieve the tension caused by the terrible cliffhanger ending.
I still don't really understand what when on during the last 50 pages, even after reading them twice, so I suppose that I'll just have to wait until Sovereign is released to be able to understand what happened and to relieve the tension caused by the terrible cliffhanger ending.
May 30, 2016
El segundo libro de la saga "Libros de los Mortales", presenta una historia con mucho más dinamismo y giros de trama muy interesantes, lo cual resulta en historia muy atrapante. Se evidencia una evolución en los personajes con respecto al anterior libro (Prohibido); sin embargo, algunas acciones de estos personajes carecen en ciertas situaciones de un porqué claro, lo que lo deja a especulaciones del lector; aunque esto puede ser intencional por parte de los autores. Así mismo, el desenlace de libro deja al lector lleno de inquietudes, lo que es una gran antesala para el último de los libros de esta saga, "Soberano".
La frase del libro:
- No -exclamó-. Les digo hoy que la verdadera vida no se halla en sangre que solo despierta pasiones. Igual que en los días del Caos, solamente el amor cedido libremente habita en el diseño del Creador. Quienes afirman que el amor depende de la lealtad son impostores que no saben nada del reino soberano. ¡Morirán del mismo modo que aquellos que ya caminan sin vida!
La frase del libro:
- No -exclamó-. Les digo hoy que la verdadera vida no se halla en sangre que solo despierta pasiones. Igual que en los días del Caos, solamente el amor cedido libremente habita en el diseño del Creador. Quienes afirman que el amor depende de la lealtad son impostores que no saben nada del reino soberano. ¡Morirán del mismo modo que aquellos que ya caminan sin vida!
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