https://www.midwestbookreview.com/sbw/may_24.htm#fantasyscifi
By Small Press Bookwatch
The Rekindler
By Chiara Talluto
www.chiaratalluto.com
Independently Published
9781734823745, $8.95, PB, 81pp
https://www.amazon.com/Rekindler-Chiara-Talluto/dp/1734823747
Synopsis: 2032 A.D., the USA is a forgotten memory. UNO, a one-world government, rules the populated world. There is one true religion, KASTAM; it’s a philosophy of moral relativism, steeped in pagan rituals and metaverse realities, as outlined in the Visphonice. If anyone is caught practicing any other religion, he or she will be persecuted and featured online for all to witness.
Captain Benjamin Morris, a former Marine and faithful Christian, has watched the demise of the USA and the rising iron grip of UNO. Upon discovering a hand-written testimony of the final days, he is fixed on resurrecting Christianity. His hard work for a revival has proven fruitless until he recruits a unique squad of five disciples to help him. With rejuvenated courage, he, and his new team arm themselves with biblical teachings, determined to share the Gospel of Christ. However, Morris has an even bigger mission in mind to reach the masses.
Critique: “The Rekindler” by Chiara Talluto is original, fascinating, memorable, thought-provoking, and certain to be of immense interest to science fiction fans who appreciate a well-crafted dystopian novel with a distinctive Christian theme and framework throughout. A fun and riveting read from start to finish, “The Rekindler” is especially and unreservedly recommended for personal reading lists and community library Science Fiction & Fantasy collections.
Reviewed by Natalie Soine for Readers’ Favorite with a 5-Star Review (Nov 2023)
The Rekindler by Chiara Talluto is a dystopian novel that explores themes of faith, revival, and resistance in a world dominated by a one-world government and religion. It weaves a story of faith, perseverance, and hope in the face of adversity. The characters, particularly Benjamin Morris, are well-developed and relatable, and we can connect with their struggles and determination to uphold their beliefs in a hostile world. The novel also explores the importance of faith and the power of religious conviction in inspiring people to fight for their beliefs. Author Chiara Talluto successfully creates a dystopian world that feels both unsettling and believable. She explores complex themes of religious freedom, persecution, and the resilience of faith with depth and sensitivity. The story’s pacing keeps the reader engaged, and the suspense builds as the characters navigate the challenges of their mission. I found The Rekindler to be thought provoking and inspiring. An absolute pleasure to read.
Reviewed by Avid Reader, Dennis De Rose (Nov 2023)
The Rekindler, is a thought-provoking what-if warning to all Christians. Fast-forward to 2032, the world has undergone a major upheaval, surviving a war that decimated most of the population several years prior. Governments and countries have collapsed and religious freedom is history. To establish order, UNO, a one-world government exists and KASTAM is the only recognized religion. Defy them at your peril. But Benjamin Morris and a small band of staunch Christians have other plans to restore the USA and the rest of the world one person at a time. So begins The Rekindler, a nudge to perhaps make people wake up and pay attention to what’s really going on around them.
