RAYMOND SEBASTIAN

       Raymond Sebastian is a man of the cloth.
       In an occupation where hedonism often seems a conservative outlook, at least compared to the wild actions of some of the agents, the idea that an espionage series could exist where the agent is not only not a dedicated lecher but is actually a confirmed and avowed Christian seems improbable. That the series could actually be very good seems, unfortunately, remarkable. I said 'unfortunately' because the quality of the six-book series written by Mr. Johnson is enough to make a spy-fi fan wish for there were a lot more like these.
       The adventures of Raymond Sebastian are definite proof that one does not have to be immoral to survive in the world of the wicked. Sebastian maintains his religious beliefs throughout his ordeals but, and this is a key point to remember, never with any sort of holier-than-thou attitude. He is what he is. He responds to questions and criticisms about his beliefs and his god with frankness and honesty. He is so confident that he doesn't feel the need to argue. Sebastian does not like violence and he never goes out looking for it but he is no shrinking violet, cowering when threatened. He can and does take care of himself.
       As for the adventures themselves, they are very well done. Each situation that Sebastian finds himself in comes to pass through logical steps, building up quickly but sensibly so the reader is brought along comfortably. And each ends very intelligently, which is often a miracle in this genre.

       A sad comment on the world we live in is that a series of adventures about a religious man should be considered so uncommon that it would stand out for that fact alone. Even sadder is that the series didn't sell well enough to continue even though the stories are good, the action terrific, the characters realistic, and the overall feel of the books very enjoyable.
       It is hard to describe my reaction to this series other than to just call it 'very positive'. They have none of the sappy 'feel-good' endings that is commonly associated with spiritual stories. People you like sometimes die and others you wouldn't miss sometimes get through.
       But during it all, you get the attitude that a good man was working for a good cause and along the way was a quiet example to others. I liked him. And the series.