Sunday 7 September 2008

The Edge of Darkness

I will be the first to admit that this is an unfair book review. The reason? I did not finish the book. In fact, I have debated about whether or not to even write this review. However, the reason the novel remains unfinished has everything to do with its content, and so I am providing my feedback.
Let me first establish my credentials: I love to read. I devour books. Before I had kids, I could finish a book in a day; even now, with kids, I finished the last three Harry Potter books in less than twenty-four hours. Furthermore, I have a history with Tim LaHaye. I loved the Left Behind books, and looked forward to the Babylon Rising series with great anticipation. However, after taking a week to wade through the fourth novel, I finally stalled out on page 115. I tried to finish just so I could write a review, but I just couldn't push myself through it.
Most of the problems stem from the first three books in the series. I have already expressed my unhappiness with them in individual reviews. I will not rehash them. Part of the problem also came from the third book, which other reviewers have called the worst of at least the first three. After forcing myself to complete it, I just couldn't make myself get through another one. I wouldn't have even tried if I hadn't already checked this book out of the library.
What, then, can I say? Not much. I think this book did run a little smoother than the last one, which, as noted, isn't saying much. The characters stayed fairly true to what was already set. I was curious to see if Issis converted (though of course I know she will). But otherwise, I didn't have much curiosity left.
I am very disappointed in this series. Having read the Soon series by Jerry Jenkins (the co-author to Left Behind), I have concluded that he must have done the primary authorship of that series. He is a very powerful writer. I also conclude that Bob Phillips must be the primary author of this series, and alas, he just isn't as talented. I've been a little upset by the idea of using Tim LaHaye's name to draw readers in. I think in this case it is a double-edged sword; anyone who reads the Babylon Rising books will most likely not bother with any of LaHaye's other works.
I am sure there were some people who enjoyed - and even finished! - the novel. I am not one of them. Reading it was painful to me. I will continue to look for other Jerry Jenkins books, but I will be hesitant to pick up something new with LaHaye's name on it - unless I need help falling asleep.

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