by Ted Dekker
First published 2008
Johnny Drake emerges from the desert to lead three thousand believers against forces that demand silence in the name of tolerance. Marsuvees Black arrives as a figure of pure malevolence, wielding persuasive words more deadly than any weapon. His influence spreads through a once free society, turning neighbor against neighbor. Billy Rediger and Darcy Lange carry scars from a failed research experiment that left them with extraordinary abilities they barely understand. As Black's corruption takes hold, these unlikely survivors must decide whether their newfound power can make a difference. Drake calls his followers to stand firm like ancient warriors who refused to yield, but the cost of resistance may be everything they hold dear. The battle lines form not over territory or resources, but over the right to speak truth and worship freely. In this struggle between submission and sacrifice, ordinary people face an choice that will determine whether liberty survives or dies under the weight of enforced conformity.
Genres: fiction, dystopia, christian-fiction, fantasy, thriller, action
Vibes: dark, emotional, fast-paced, thought-provoking
Tropes: chosen-one, enemies-to-lovers, found-family
374 pages · Hardcover · Thomas Nelson
Content warnings: violence