Let me say straight away that this book does not deserve 5 stars.I had to give them because 6 was not possible!Soul Identity contains everything a reader could want:drama,action,adventure,humor,and romance.It appeals across a wide range of genres.The plot revolves around a mysterious organization called "Soul Identity", whose members bank on taking it with them when they go,literally. They believe they can have it back in their next life. Are they crazy? Are they dangerous? Scott Waverly,a man with a keen intelligence and a dry wit,wonders when he takes on a security project for the company.A wonderful cast of characters begins to parade across the pages: Scott's lonely neighbor, Bob the delivery boy, James the elevator operator, and the gorgeous computer geek Val. There are many more, each with his or her own unique identity. Mr. Batchelder's ability to bring such varied characters to life is positively Dickensian.They all fit together into a seamless narrative, intriguing us and complementing each other.There's not a false note in any of the dialogue, and the pace never falters. The premise of the story is highly original and wonderfully executed. I was in suspense from beginning to end. This is a novel that truly impressed me with its polished and exciting style. My sister read it and said that it was better than Tom Clancy.I can't speak to that, never having read the gentleman, but I know an excellent book when I see one. I'm so glad that there's more to come! Thank you, Mr. Batchelder, for giving us Soul Identity!
New age thriller starts strong but fails to deliver on its initial promiseThe premise of Dennis Batchelder's novel, "Soul Identity," is captivating: What if some physical trait allowed you to trace your soul through time? What if you could build a storehouse of wealth and accumulated knowledge that each of your physical incarnations could access and build upon? The premise contains such tantalizing possibilities from a spiritual perspective. Unfortunately, Batchelder fails to deliver the depth and insight to propel his story beyond a simple thriller.Spiritual/metaphysical content: Low. Imagine how much spiritual growth could occur if you could record the wisdom of each lifetime and then use it as a foundation for your next incarnation. The novel's premise allows for this possibility, but it focuses instead on who controls the accumulated wealth. If Batchelder had explored the implications of his premise, Soul Identity would be a much richer, more satisfying story.My take: I enjoyed this novel as a simple thriller. However, the book could have been so much more. The premise reeks with possibility, but Batchelder fails to deliver any real depth. The simplistic storyline and lack of character development make what could have been a subtle, satisfying, insightful novel a mere "popcorn" read that leaves you wanting more.
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What a wild ride!Soul Identity is an unusual and exciting twist on the current iris identification programs. Mix in some mythology, history and compelling characters and the book just takes off. This is one of those books that you just can't put down until its finished. I was unable to predict the many twists and turns the plot took. Dennis did a fine job making you love or hate the characters. I gave this book 5 stars because it was well written, the characters were well developed and interesting, the plot was original and the mystery keept me guessing throughout. This book would make an excellent movie. I had the privilege to peek into the sequel, and I can guarantee another wild ride as the mystery continues.
—Mike
This will not be one of those "why buy the book reviews", which I deplore. I am always turned off by reviews that divulge the entire plot line and outcome of a book in the review. Hopefully, I will give you just enough to whet your reading appetite. The author of Soul Identity presents a fascinating fantasy for his readers to contemplate and savour. He immerses us in the adventures of a computer security geek and his "hot" Russian female counterpart and allows us to theorize as to our own feelings concerning the possibility of reincarnation. Would any of us be interested in engaging the services of a company that would act as a depository for our money, life experiences, and other valuables, and return them to us in our next life because, through the use of modern technology, they have developed a system of tracking and identifying souls through time? If there were such an organization, how long would it be before someone would hatch a scheme to infiltrate and usurp control?? Want the answers to these and a myriad of other questions, then buy a copy of Soul Identity and get ready for an entertaining, thought provoking and engaging read with plenty of action for the thrill seekers among you. I guarantee that even the most jaded reader will be hooked by page twenty.
—Sandie
I'm about half-way through this book and I'm torn...I just can't decide whether or not to keep going. The premise of the book is fascinating. The first quarter was really good. But from 25% to 45%, it's all I could do to stay awake. Lots of exceedingly boring background info about the company that even the main character couldn't care less about. If you can't make your character care, why on earth am I supposed to?Also, I agree with the review that said it was the subject of an adult book, but the writing style/quality is very YA. There's lots of good reviews, but I just don't know if I can make myself finish this one.
—Amanda
