This is the first book in the series that I read. If I'm not mistaken, it is possible to read the books out of order and somehow connect the story. Or maybe a series of stories? When I began reading I was really into it. The idea of being unclear as to which world is real was intriguing and I think that the author did a good job of convincing me to question which was a dream. The author lost me as the religious aspect became more and more part of the story. Perhaps in the description of the novel religion was mentioned, but good grief! I'm not sure if I will read any of the other books.

I wasn’t sure what to expect going into Black, especially since this genre is new territory for me—but wow, what a ride. Although it took me a while to understand the back-and-forth between the dreamworld and reality, once I got into the rhythm, I was hooked.

What really held me in the beginning—despite some early confusion—was that brilliant opening scene in Switzerland. The stakes were so high, the suspense so sharp, and the tension between Carlos and Svensson so well-executed that I had to keep going. Ted knows how to start strong and earn your curiosity.

Ted’s research is incredible—the worlds he creates are vivid and believable. From government agencies like the CIA to characters like the Deputy Secretary of State, everything felt grounded and realistic, not exaggerated or cartoonish. His storytelling is immersive, and the suspense was surreal. It literally kept me up at night.

I also loved watching Thomas go from underdog to someone respected and chosen. The spiritual arc—Elyon calling someone who didn’t even believe in Him—was so moving. It’s a powerful reminder that God knows us even when we don’t know Him, and still calls us into purpose. His love is persistent.

The sibling bond between Thomas and Kara added heart to the story, and Ted’s use of short, sharp paragraphs kept the pacing tight and emotional tension high.

This isn’t my first Ted Dekker book (Sovereign was actually my first—and I’ve read it three times!), but Black has opened me up to an entirely new genre I didn’t know I would enjoy this much. I’m already diving into Red next.

Thanks to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for the complimentary copy. Opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine.

I absolutely love this boom and hovered it multiple times. I loveth3entirre series. Infection, my husband and I named our son after themail character Thomas Hunter,.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher. I also purchased a copy for myself. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

Overall Rating: 4/5 Stars!

Plot: 4.75/5 stars
Honestly, I don’t have any problems with the plot other than the fantasy world seems a little underdeveloped. The plot is the reason I picked up the book, and when I realized it was a series, I was even more excited to read and learn how the world intertwined and collided. Thus, I consider the plot to be an absolute win and the best part of the book! Unfortunately, I finished the book still desiring what the plot led me to expect.

Narrative/Writing Style: 3.5/5
The plot is phenomenal, but I think part of this book's lost momentum begins in its execution. If the entire book were as gripping as the explanation of the plot or the blurb, this would have been an easy five stars. As it stands, however, the fantasy world left a little to long for, and the execution just wasn’t as enjoyable as I had anticipated going into the book.
The action, the description of violent encounters, and the basic fantasy elements that defined the worlds were phenomenal! I was excited and in suspense during the action sequences, able to follow the movements, and impressed by Dekker’s easy handling of violence and danger. That aspect of the writing will continue to impress me for a while.

Characters: 3/5 stars
I found it difficult to relate to any of the characters. They were fleshed out well enough; Kara and Thomas had a pretty good relationship, and the “bad guy” was honestly pretty enjoyable and a little too relatable at times. The more I read, the more annoying some of the characters became, and the less attachment or understanding I felt toward them. Perhaps their growth through the series will change my mind, but overall, I wasn’t particularly impressed by Dekker’s characters. Thomas and Kara certainly had their moments, though, so I’m giving the characters a 3/5, with a little room for improvement.

Readability (and Re-Readability): 4/5 stars
Let me start by saying that the first few pages had me hooked. By the 10% mark, I wasn’t sure I wanted to keep reading the series. The book is admittedly a little confusing on the first read – or it was for me, at least – but I think that is part of its charm! The series is a circle, you can start and end anywhere, and that’s awesome. So, if you can read through the first time, it’s probably worth a reread to get things in order and have a way of making everything fit into the circle, whatever the order you read.
If you can handle the lackluster-ness again.

Overall, I wanted to love this book, but I think it wasn’t executed as well as it could have been. The plot is excellent! Two intertwined worlds, action, loops, and twists, everything has a silver lining, but altogether, it seems like it is missing something. While I’m not sure I want to read it again, it’s something I’d recommend to friends who enjoy fantasy and suspense series.

It was good to read this book again after so many years. The author grabs you and pulls you into the story so you can't put it down. It is inspiring.

I read this series years ago when they first came out. I loved the allegorical nature of the books. There are a good many other books that had some of the same characters and I enjoyed them all.

I was thrilled to get Kindle Netgalley copies so I could once again enter the world of Thomas Hunter.

"Black" by Ted Dekker is a novel that blends thriller and supernatural elements, set in the mysterious town of Paradise, Colorado. The story follows Thomas Hunter, who finds himself shifting between two realities—one where he faces impending death and another where he is in a seemingly idyllic world. The novel explores themes of choice, identity, and the battle between good and evil.

While the premise of dual realities and the philosophical underpinnings are intriguing, some readers, like yourself, may find the pacing slow or the narrative structure challenging to engage with fully. Dekker's narrative style can be complex, and the plot's twists may not always resonate with every reader.

If you enjoy exploring deep philosophical questions within a suspenseful context, "Black" might still be worth revisiting. However, if the pacing and structure didn't align with your reading preferences, it's understandable why you chose not to finish it.

Great writing, but not among my favorite genres. I’ve read numerous books by the author and have always been impressed by his mastery of the language and ability to weave a tale. My rating is really a reflection of the writing (5) and my enjoyment (3).

Black
By Ted Dekker
Publisher: Thomas Nelson Fiction
Series: Book 1 of the Circle series
Rated: 5
Back of the Book: “Thomas Hunter narrowly escapes mysterious assailants only to encounter a silent bullet that clips his head . . . and his world goes black. He awakens in an alternate reality and soon finds himself pulled between two worlds. In one, Thomas is an average guy working in a coffeehouse. In the other, he's a battle-scarred general leading a band of warriors known as the Circle. Every time Thomas closes his eyes, he awakes in a different reality, where he must thwart a looming pandemic in one and confront forbidden love in another. Thomas can bridge both worlds, but he quickly realizes that he may not be able to save either. In this mind-bending adventure of suspense, thriller, and fantasy, the fate of both worlds now rests on his ability to shift realities through his dreams—and somehow find a way to change history.”
Impressions: Ted Dekker is a storyteller like no other. This fantasy world is thoughtful and full of suspense. Faith is woven into the story using parallels to connect to the gospel. The ending was abrupt and left little option but to continue with the next book. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and look forward to reading the rest of the series.

Quotes: “‘Adrenaline dulls reason; panic kills it.’”

“‘The point is, we were created to love beauty. We love beauty because Elyon loves beauty. We love song because Elyon loves song. We love love because Elyon loves love. And we love to be loved because Elyon loves to be loved. In all these ways we are like Elyon. In one way or another, everything we do is tied to this unfolding story of love between us and Elyon.’”

“Dissatisfaction led to mischief as well as good.”

Thank you NetGalley and publisher for the opportunity to review this book!

Truly love revisiting this book.
I first read it as a young adult, at that point I was active in the church. I have since left any type of organized religion, but the book holds up beautifully.

These books are full of fantasy elements, well built characters, and plots that keep you reading.

You absolutely do not need to be religious to enjoy the circle series by Ted Dekker.

Author Ted Dekker is a great writer. Throughout his many books there are messages. His plots are exceptional. He uses tension that keeps you turning the pages, villains that you look down on and characters that disturb you and yet you cheer them on.
The plot is exceptional. Let’s look at the elements of this tale:
Plot: The plot is really good! There are two worlds with two plots that intertwine. This plot is filled with doubt, curiosity, vision, practicality, dismay, plausible characters, and absorbing script. This is a very suspenseful tale.
Characterization: The characters were realistic. I was waiting for them to jump off the page and take a run around the house. Kara and Thomas are siblings. Their interactions were one of the best parts of this tale. Kara was my favorite character. I did not like Rachelle, she was obnoxious. Thomas was a unique character; he had flaws which made him realistic. He is appealing, amusing, and spirited.
World Building: In this tale we have two vastly different worlds and yet the world building was fantastic. The world building is so good I had to stop and think which world was real and which wasn’t. World 1 is real with all its faults and challenges. World 2 is where the character goes when he is asleep; in this world evil is black, and the good are naïve and unexperienced. In World 2 everything is either black or white, no gray areas.
Fantasy: Well done! The author created a rainbow forest, an unusual bird and fruits.
Action: There was a lot of action and violence in the modern world.

Thank you NetGalley for the ARC.

Black is one of those books that burrowed into my psyche years ago and apparently set up permanent camp, because every time I come back to it, it still hits. I first read this before I deconstructed my faith, and it was one of my favorites then—but the wild thing is, it still holds up even now. Strip away the evangelical undercurrent and what you’re left with is a masterful work of fantasy realism with an incredibly immersive, high-stakes narrative.

The dream-world concept? Still brilliant. The pacing? Fast and relentless in the best way. And Thomas Hunter’s journey as he flips between two realities? That trope never goes out of style. Dekker’s writing keeps you turning pages like your life depends on it, and honestly, I’m just impressed by how well this one stands the test of time.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from NetGalley, which feels a little like time travel since this came out in 2009—but hey, I’m not questioning the gift. All opinions are my own, and I’m happily still obsessed.

Black was the first book that introduced me to Ted Dekker and I have to say that I really enjoy this book. I have recommended it to others and will continue to do so as it is a firm favourite. It is an allegorical story and faith based.

This is a mix of things like fantasy and sci-fi. It at times does get violent so small warning if you can't handle that. You will want to read the subsequent books after reading this.

I receive complimentary books for various sources, including Netgalley, Authors, and other such sources. I am not required to write a positive review and have not received compensation.

One of my favorite books of all time! This series changed my life when I read it in my early teens and really got me into reading, fantasy, and speculative fiction.