Rise of the Mystics

Author: Ted Dekker

Series: Beyond the Circle #2

Publisher: Revell

Release Date: October 2, 2018

Rating: 5 Stars

Reviewer: Jessica Higgins

Fans of Dekker and the Circle series will not want to miss this this follow-up installment that holds true to all that fans have come to expect from this exceptional writer.

It has been many years since the death of Thomas Hunter, but he is still remembered in our world and the world he still lives in. No one has gone between the worlds like he did until now.  Rachelle Matthews has somehow found a way into that other world just as Thomas Hunter did.  In this world, she learned she was the 49^th mystic and is on a mission to find the five ancient seals before they can be destroyed by her enemies.  Having already found the first three seals, she now searches for the final two.  If she fails in her quest, the world will be plunged into darkness.  She is going up against a dark force, Vlad Smith, who has her locked in a dungeon and is about to turn both worlds upside down.  If she can find the Realm of Mystics and the final two seals without losing everything, she just might save both worlds.

If you are a fan of the circle series then this is one you will not want to miss. The 49^th Mystic and Rise of the Mystics are a great pair to add to the circle series. I’ve always thought there was so much more story to tell from that series and am glad to see Dekker bringing fans beyond the circle.  It took me a little while to get through this book because you have to follow so closely to everything that is happening.  Dekker’s books have to be slowly absorbed and savored.  It’s not like fast food, it’s more like a five course meal that every bite is better than the last.  Each chapter brings about a part of the story fans will think back on to previous books and it will bring a smile to their face remembering all of the aspects of the circle they might have forgotten.  I don’t want to give anything away, but one part with Thomas Hunter will have fans cheering with delight.  Rachelle is still finding her strength and learning from those around her, just as we should follow the guidance of those that God puts in our lives.  To me this is a much better closeout to the series than Green, what we all thought was the final book in the series.  I’m sure Dekker could find a way to bring more from the story if he so chooses, but for me this was satisfactory and left me with a feeling of closure with all of the characters.  I recommend this book to fans of the circle series.  If you are new to reading Ted Dekker, this is not the one to start with as you will not have even a fraction of what you need to understand what is happening here.  For readers that are intrigued by the premise of Rise of the Mystics I recommend reading the circle series and then diving into The 49^th Mystic and Rise of the Mystics, you won’t be disappointed!

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