Rating: 
Summary: Christian Propaganda Fails Despite Author's Skill and Talent
Review: Despite her genuine skill and talent, Anne Perry has hit a solid thud with "Tathea," an obvious name in itself, 'Ta-Thea' indicating a connection with God (theo, thea being the Greek word for God, masculine and feminine). I am very sorry that this was my first Anne Perry book for it has put me off her work forever, I'm afraid. It is pure preachment and succeeds only as a work of Christian propaganda. It turned me off, even with its display of wan tolerance towards other religious viewpoints, as it assumes a superiority of origin. I believe it is revealing and that Perry has written what, for her, represents something deeply personal and genuine, but which, for me, and I'm sure for others, represents something despotically religious. Ultimately, it fails as literature because it has a clear agenda behind the story.
Rating: 
Summary: Spiritual Autobiography
Review: Perhaps because I am somewhat familiar with Anne Perry's conversion to Mormonism, I recognized this novel for what it was: Her own expression of her love for God, and an allegorical telling of her own journey toward peace. No, it is not to be compared to Lewis or Tolkein, but I don't think she ever meant for it to be. I am a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (aka Mormons), and I believe that this book will be most appreciated by other members of this church and people who have a sincere interest in just what we believe. It is beautifully written, and I have a great deal of respect for how much of herself Ms. Perry was willing to share in its publication. One final note, however: The best way to learn what the Mormons are all about will always be to read The Book of Mormon. I'm certain Ms. Perry would agree that even her sweet novel is a weak substitute for the real thing.
Rating:
Summary: More than pleasantly surprised
Review: I love Anne Perry mysteries but I am also a fantasy fan and to pick up a fantasy book written by one of my favourite mystery authors was a dream made in heaven. It was thoughtful and well written. I am not highly religious but it helped focus and articulate my feelings on what religion should be like. It made me think, which is all you can ask of a good book. Judging by the reviews it made other people think too, so whatever you think about the book, it succeeded.
Rating:
Summary: Disappointing
Review: I have read and loved Anne Perry for some time. I was very interested to see what she might write as a first try at fantasy, although I was a bit dismayed by her remark on the back cover that it is her most important work.What I found was her usual good writing, enlisted in the service of an apology of a sort of caricature of Christianity. Ms. Perry seems to be willing to sacrifice a lot of storytelling for this, including what seem to be some rather pointy barbs at what I might call conventional Christianity; so I'm led to think that it does in fact represent her belief. As such I suppose it's an allegory, though but thinly cloaked indeed. My opinion is that she worked too hard for significance, and should decide whether she wants to write apologies or fiction. I'd *still* like to see her write a fantasy, or maybe half a dozen; but she doesn't yet have enough practice in the form to make it carry more than its own weight. In the mean time I'd shelve this one under apologies for whatever sect shares her belief, and not recommend it to my friends. She's lost a lot of credit with me, even though I stuck with it right up until the last chapter which is -- in entirety -- a statement of the belief structure supported in the rest of the book. I already knew more than I wanted by that point. For reference, for those who care, I am an Orthodox Christian.
Rating:
Summary: More than an escape, "Tathea" is fiction with meaning.
Review: I'm a non-fiction fan. In my opinion, all the knowledge and wisdom that can be found in a good how-to book or from reading a real-life situation was the best reading possible. I looked at fiction as an escape that I couldn't really afford. There was just too much else that was actually worth reading. But something about Anne Perry's "Tathea" intrigued me. Even though it was billed as a "fantasy," it also was described as an exploration of good and evil and the search for truth. So I bought the book, read it, and enjoyed it. The philosophical side of the book is where "Tathea" excels. Tathea's conversations and revelations among friends, enemies, fellow seekers, unbelievers, demons and angels are the core of the book. These gems are surrounded by an intriguing story and an unusual premise that kept me reading. The beginning third of "Tathea" is her spiritual journey, filled with symbolism and allusions that lay the foundation for the rest of the book. The second two-thirds of the book follow Tathea on her physical journey of learning, sharing and blessing. One thing I found wanting was the characterizations. I knew the title character well, but the characters of the supporting cast weren't explored as deeply as I found myself wanting them to be. "Tathea" is more than an escape. It is fiction with meaning. It is not for the reader who wants an easy, shallow story. But if you enjoy being challenged cerebrally and spiritually, I highly recommend it.
Rating: 
Summary: No feeling of 'world'
Review: I was greatly disappointed with this book. Its the first book I have bought in a long time where I did not look at all the Amazon reviewers comments, and I regret that. It started well, but I only got 50 pages into it before I gave up. Character development is poor, you keep on feeling that you missed some important pages. Changing cultures on a daily basis gives it a cardboard feeling. I tried making excuses for it, but eventually I had to put it down. Not enjoyable at all. Unrealistic, trying to go through all the worlds religeons and philosophies in one story. A novel idea, but not a good read.
Rating: 
Summary: Mixed Reviews
Review: As a reader of previous Anne Perry novels, I was excited to plunge into this novel and see what she could do with a fantasy. My feelings are mixed: The first third of the book was slow and difficult to wade through. (In fact, it took me a month to find the time to get through it.) However, the remainder of the book was interesting. It certainly wasn't on par with C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien, as others may suggest. In fact, it was a bit didactic for me. However, it was an interesting take on a Christian theme. I found the exploration of the themes engaging. I did find the characterizations a bit lacking in depth, except for the title character. All in all, it was a worthwile read if you enjoy Christian literature.
Rating:
Summary: Overall I was disappointed in what could have been great.
Review: I applaud the author's attempt to combine science fiction (sort of) with a quest for spiritual meaning for our lives. The first third of the book was very slow and repetitive. The latter part of the book improved, yet the story lacked depth and didn't hold my interest. I cannot believe people have the audacity to compare it to C.S.Lewis or Tolkien--that is a put-down to 2 great authors. I would compare it more to The Alchemist by Paulo Cohelo.
Rating: 
Summary: A very intriguing and entertaining novel
Review: Tathea was one of the best novels I have read. The symbolism to religion was subtle yet prominent enough to show through. It kept you wanting to read the next chapter and find what connections you could find between yourself and Tathea. The setting to the novel was very unique. Anne Perry has a special way of letting the characters reach out and touch you. You begin to feel the pain and joy of Tathea and all the characters. I hope that Anne Perry will write another book like this so that I can enjoy another one of her books!
Rating:
Summary: A very intriguing and entertaining novel
Review: Tathea was one of the best novels I have read. The symbolism to religion was subtle yet prominet enough to show through. It kept you wanting to read the next chapter and find what connections you could find between yourself and Tathea. The setting to the novel was very unique. Anne Perry has a special way of letting the characters reach out and touch you. You begin to feel the pain and joy of Tathea and all the characters. I hope that Anne Perry will write another book like this so that I can enjoy another one of her books!
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