First published 2017
The Shepherd departs, leaving his flock in the care of his trusted sheepdogs. He provides them with all necessary tools and training to guard the sheep in his absence. The sheepdogs settle into their protective duties, confident in their preparation and purpose. Then sheep start dying. Bodies turn up wounded and killed across the pasture. The sheepdogs face a crisis that tests everything they believe about their role. They cannot reach the Shepherd for guidance. The attacks continue while they struggle with orders that no longer fit their reality. The sheepdogs must choose between following old commands and protecting their charges. Their decision will reshape the flock permanently. Anderson weaves this pastoral allegory into a reflection on contemporary America, examining what happens when protective systems fail and guardians lose their authority to act.
Genres: fiction, contemporary, 21st-century
Vibes: suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: allegory, crisis-of-faith, failure-of-authority
144 pages · Paperback · CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform