What a compelling novel... I found it especially relevant in an age where Christian extremism has gained a foothold in the American landscape. Noah Milligan crafted a novel that makes his readers ponder the fine line that many walk between belief and zealotry, between ideology and obsessiveness. These blurred lines have carried over into politics and everyday life, most visible in the exclusionary practices of some churches and private institutions, but even in our government and ordinary citizens' practices.
My heart broke for Caleb. From a very young age, his mother convinced him that he was the second coming of Jesus Christ. As he pondered his circumstances later in adulthood, he realized "I wasn't brainwashed - it wasn't like that because in order to be brainwashed, the person convincing you must realize they're telling you lies. In my case, it couldn't be any different - my mother truly believed I was Jesus Christ reborn, and so why wouldn't I believe her?"
Even as his mother promulgated this outrageous concept, she had no malevolence in her heart, but was merely a misled individual, who caused incredible pain for many. This is where Milligan excels. He can make a reader empathize with even the most dubious individual, humanizing them, and allowing us to see every angle. These individuals felt real, like one's own neighbor, even in situations that are anything but familiar. The author also explores very relevant topics, and enables his readers to reflect on very valid concerns, ones that wouldn't normally be at the forefront. For example, his novel brought to mind how incredibly malleable a child's mind can be, and solidified the great responsibility we, as parents, have.
I must admit, I was more enthralled the first 2/3 of the book than in the end. Somehow, the novel lost a bit of its fire as it culminated. However, I truly enjoyed Mr. Milligan's easy manner of writing and his ability to make a foreign concept very accessible.
Many thanks to Central Avenue Publishing and NetGalley for gifting me with this advanced copy in exchange for an honest review. This title will be released on October 1, 2019.
Read 7/14/19
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