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Monday, August 1, 2016

THE ALLIANCE by JOLINA PETERSHEIM

What would you do if one day your computer, phone, TV and car stopped working? As you go outside to see what is going on, you hear a plane as it crashes onto your land. Do you start to think the end of the world is here? When the pilot of the plane approaches you, are you scared? These thoughts must have been going through Leora that fateful day. The Mennonites live in a quiet community with little luxuries, but they are being told that there is no electricity, cars are not working and there is no way  to call for help.  Towns  everywhere are without power. The Nennonites  are strong and they help each other out. They don't believe in violence. But that soon may change as Moses tells the community was has happened.

Everyone has just experienced an EMP which is an electromagnetic pulse. It is capable of taking out the power grid and ceasing all electric devices. Moses is trying to explain what is going on, but there is some doubt among the people. I think if I was in that community, I would start to blame Moses for everything. I loved Leora  and her fierce determination to care for her family but she does have a problem with control. I sure know how trying to control everything can cause destruction and trust issues.

The town comes  together to make  a safe place for the families and is only allowing a few English people into their compound. The author really delivers on writing the raw  emotions of desperate people as they try to survive. How do you turn away children who are starving? It was so emotional to read the struggles that  people faced . I loved the struggle that had some doubting their faith. They had always been taught to never fight and always open their home to others. The story is gripping, full of action and I enjoyed how the author touched on trust issues. We all have a time where we start to doubt our faith and wondering if we can ever trust anyone. Will the Mennonites be able to protect themselves  from outsiders trying to break their barricade? Can they trust each other or will they turn and fight amongst themselves?

The story is riveting and brings to light the impact an EMP would have on each of us. I can't imagine having to beg for food, look for shelter and keep my  family safe. The author has written such a compelling story that I couldn't put it down. The ending is dramatic, powerful and an adrenaline rush.  There is a moment in the book where the compound comes together to eat. I loved when the author wrote, "Sometimes it is necessary to celebrate life, despite being faced with defeat and death." It reminded me of the Last Supper Jesus had with His disciples. He knew what was coming, but He wanted that time with His disciples.   We all need to be reminded that we are not guaranteed one day on this earth, but while we are here we need to make every moment count. Make sure you don't miss this gripping story  and be sure to check out the discussions questions at the end of the book. The author has included an excerpt from the next book that you won't want to miss reading.. I am anxiously awaiting the next book in this unforgettable story and know it will be just as explosive as this one was.

"We'll find protection in the shadow of his wings."

I received a copy of this book from The BookClub Network for an honest review.

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