Prayer

Philip Kerr

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'Prayer' by Philip Kerr is a novel that delves into the realms of theological musings and religious fanaticism. The story follows Gil Martins, an FBI agent investigating domestic terrorism cases related to religion. The narrative touches on corruption within both Evangelical and Roman Catholic expressions of belief, contrasting a mega church with a money-grubbing pastor against a hurricane-ruined cathedral under the protection of a bishop complicit in protecting pedophile priests. As the plot unfolds, Martins faces a conspiracy surrounding the suspicious deaths of outspoken atheists, leading him to question his atheism and confront the possibility of divine judgement.

Kerr's writing style in 'Prayer' skillfully weaves together themes of ethics, spirituality, and skepticism, creating a thought-provoking narrative that challenges the reader's beliefs. The novel presents a dark and suspenseful atmosphere, exploring the tension between religion and rationality, with a denouement that surprises and leaves readers contemplating the nature of God and the existence of evil.

Characters:

The characters are complex and represent various aspects of faith and skepticism, particularly focusing on the protagonist's internal struggle.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is characterized by strong prose and theological exploration, though it shifts in tone as the story progresses.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot revolves around an investigation into the mysterious deaths of atheists, featuring themes of faith, conspiracy, and personal struggle.

Setting:

The setting plays a crucial role in revealing cultural attitudes towards faith and skepticism, primarily located in Texas.

Pacing:

The pacing varies throughout the book, with a strong start that diminishes in intensity, leading to a lackluster conclusion.

From the outside, the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart resembled a prison. With its high windows, grey seamless concrete blocks and a free-standing bell-tower, the Sacred Heart did not look like a promis...

Notes:

The book 'Prayer' involves a serial killer targeting prominent atheists.

The main character, Gil Martins, is a lapsed Catholic who investigates the suspicious deaths of non-believers.

Kerr is known for his Bernie Gunther series, which usually features historical and ethical issues.

'Prayer' touches on themes of faith, domestic terrorism, and personal crisis of belief.

The novel explores the contrast between corrupt religious leaders and sincere faith.

The setting includes various churches and highlights the evangelical movement in Texas.

Some readers found the ending disappointing and felt it didn't provide a satisfying conclusion.

Others appreciated the exploration of religious themes and the horror elements in the story.

Kerr's portrayal of God in the novel is described as vengeful and unjust by some readers.

The book raises questions about the coexistence of religion and rationality.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Triggers and content warnings for Prayer include themes of mental illness, suicide, domestic violence, spiritual and religious violence, and moral corruption.

From The Publisher:

Acclaimed for his historical mysteries, the New York Times bestselling author of the Bernie Gunther series seamlessly shifts to a present-day setting in this intense psychological thriller.

Gil Martins, an agent with the FBI's Domestic Terrorism Unit in Houston, sees the violence wrought by extremists of all kinds. Gil has always been on the side of justice-until he learns something that shakes his faith in the system, in himself, and in God. Desperate, he prays, begging to know God is there. When a serial killer begins targeting the morally righteous at the same time that a number of secular icons come under attack, Gil realizes that his prayers are being answered in a most terrifying way.

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Prayer?

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