In 2038 America, technology reigns. Cars drive themselves. Algorithms make is so the simplest tasks, such as picking out your own clothes, never cross your mind.

Cheyenne Burne is a programmer who works for the leading tech firm. When her father converts to Christianity, he disappears. As do many other Christians, many never to be seen again. The day a stranger hands her a coded message, her life completely changes. Going off the grid, she finds herself mixed up with an underground group of Christians, led by a man called The Reckoner.

Thrasher doesn’t seem to be too far off here. The USA is on a path to Christianity becoming illegal, as it is in so many countries. This novel, however, misses the mark.

In terms of the state of government control, the novel sounds more like a collection of conspiracy theories than probable scenarios; from Kennedy’s second shooter to 9/11 being an inside job. There are definitely things in the book that we can see traces of now, but some of it felt off.

In terms of the writing, the story felt very disjointed and slow. The chapters jump between characters. Within the chapters, there are short, numbered sections that break up scenes, and the scenes themselves sometimes feel unconnected. It felt as if there was no transition.

The premise had lots of potential (just look at today’s news), but I can’t say that I enjoyed it.

1) Overall Plot = 3
2) Characters = 2
3) Flow/Pace of the story = 2
4) Is the story easy to follow? = 3.5
5) Overall Enjoyability = 2.5

Average score of 2.6 out of 5

Where to buy the book: CBD | Amazon | B&N

I was given a complimentary advanced copy of this novel from Waterbrook Multnomah in exchange for a review.