This
short novel packs a huge punch. I thought Forstchen's novel, One
Second After, was scary. This one is much more so.
The
action takes place in about an eight hour period. Bob Peterson heads
off to the middle school where he teaches. He kisses his wife
good-bye, not knowing it would be the last time they would see each
other alive.
A
short time later, a very organized series of terrorist attacks begin
across the country. Many of the teams invade schools, including
Peterson's middle school. Other teams roam the interstates, shooting
various drivers as they pass.
What
a powerful novel. There are so many issues in this novel, it is hard
to know where to start. A big one is carrying guns. Bob takes a
concealed weapon to school, in his pocket. It is totally against
school rules, but he saves scores of children with it. Another issue
is the obsession with being politically correct in the U.S. That has
allowed the terrorists untold freedom to pursue their ends. Other
issues include religious freedom, media coverage, gun control,
marshal law, and much more.
The
issue that fascinated me was the religion of the terrorists. They are
a part of ISIS. Their leader has figured out exactly how Americans
will respond to this series of attacks. And we Americans play right
into their plans.
Forstchen
has created a chilling novel. Yes, there are controversial aspects to
the plot. Nonetheless, the story seems all too possible to me. I
highly recommend this novel, if for no other reason than just to get
you thinking.
Even
if you do not read the book, go to the book's website and just check
out the information.
William R. Forstchen has a PhD from Purdue University with specialization in
military history and the history of technology. He is a fellow and
professor of history at Montreat College. He is the author of over
forty books. He lives near Asheville, North Carolina.
Spectrum
Literary Agency, 188 pages.
No comments:
Post a Comment