Robert Williams didn't expect an early honorable release from his mission, but upon his return home, he sees the reason for the surprise decision. Unemployment, rampant violence, and frequent food shortages have put the United States on the brink of another civil war. As the threads of society unravel, the Williams family must adapt to drastic changes as the long-foretold gathering begins to take place.
My Review:
The premise of this book - the "End of Times" - is a subject that greatly fascinates me and often drives the direction of my own creative diversions. One of my favorite research topics is the second coming of the Savior and the signs that will lead up to it. I am a preparation nut (not quite a fanatic, but with each year, each calamity, and each sign that comes to light, I'm edging closer!) For this reason, I was drawn to it, and couldn't wait to read it. And, I'm happy to report, I wasn't disappointed!
Political, social, and religious tension, all wrapped up in an easy-to-read, enjoyable, and quite thought-provoking novel. Lindsay cover's the perspectives of a few members of the Williams family (dad: John, mother: Becky, and their adult son Robert) as well as a Washington insider, Secretary of State Calvin McCord. I enjoyed all the different perspectives and the plot angles they presented.
This is a well-written, thought provoking, page-turner. I'd highly recommend it. Don't worry, you don't have to know much about the prophecies regarding the end of times to enjoy the story. (I do warn, however, that by the time you finish, you may find yourself wanting to know more.)
My only complaint is that it ended a bit abruptly. I kept looking for an extra page or two. Yes, I understand that it is the first in a series, but I still feel like it could've ended a little smoother.
The Gathering (End's Beginning) is available today for preorder on Amazon. Official release date is January 14, at which time it will be available at B&N, Deseret Book, Seagull, and other awesome book retailers.
* If you'd like to know more about the signs of the Second Coming, I highly recommend The End of Times by Connie Joslin.
About the Author:
RANDY LINDSAY is a native of Arizona. From an early age, his mind traveled in new and unusual directions. His preoccupation with "what if" eventually led him to write speculative fiction. According to his wife, "everything is a story to Randy." And it is. The Gathering is his first novel, but he has been published in a variety of science-fiction and fantasy anthologies. He lives in Mesa with his wife and five of his nine children. If you want to find out more you can check out his website at RandyLindsay.net.
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