The 49th Mystic

Author: Ted Dekker

Series: Beyond the Circle #1

Publisher: Revell

Release Date: May 15, 2018

Rating: 5 Stars

Reviewer: Jessica Higgins

Fans of Dekker can rejoice as he brings us back into the circle and the world we grew to love with Thomas Hunter. A book well worth the wait and meant to be enjoyed by all that call themselves part of The Circle.

Many years ago, a gateway to another world was opened with Thomas Hunter. His death was supposed to sever that gateway for good. For years, no one crossed over until Rachelle Matthews from Eden, Utah crossed that gateway.  Rachelle has always been blind, but when she attempts a procedure to restore her sight she begins waking up in another reality and finds herself wondering which reality is real and which is a dream.  In the new reality, she wakes up with her sight and abilities beyond her wildest dreams.  There is an ancient prophecy that says she must find and recover five ancient seals that will have serious effects on both worlds.  Her success will mean peace for all or keep both worlds locked in darkness forever.

Anyone that has read Ted Dekker knows that his writing is like no other. He isn’t afraid to dive deeper than most with his stories and take you on an adventure you will never forget.  Fans of Dekker will without a doubt be familiar with his circle series and eager to pick up The 49^th Mystic to see where the story continues.  I will say that if you haven’t read any of The Circle series, this book might be a little hard to understand at times.  Readers can still enjoy the story but the backstory from the previous books will be beneficial.  With all that being said, it is a wonderful story that I, along with others I’m sure, have waited years for.  Even though this is a continuation of the circle series, in a way it is its own story, something that makes it perfect for new readers of Dekker.

Written with characters that are tough but also relatable, The 49^th Mystic has everything readers will want.  There is a depth to the characters along with the storyline that will pull readers in and keep them until the very last page.  I decided to take my time reading and really engross myself in the story, Dekker’s writing requires close attention so that the reader can see different connections throughout the book.  Each chapter and each page contains minute details that drive the story forward and are not to be missed.  Each character is vital and every word the characters say and action they take will lead to where the story is going to take you here and in volume two.  It is almost cruel to make us wait even the few short months for the next one, but wait we will. Be ready to Dive Deep once more.  I recommend this book highly to fans of Dekker’s previous novels and even to newcomers of his work with an open mind to enjoy a new story unlike any they have ever encountered.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. The views and opinions expressed within are my own.