"In the tradition of recent dystopian novels, The Road , Handmaid's Tale , and The Hunger Games , Marianne Modica has added a unique theological element. As current as today's headlines, she envisions a world where Christian nationalism has taken over, while a few 'uncommitted' maintain a feeble resistance. Modica narrates through the eyes of a teenage girl as she turns eighteen and awakens to possibilities in her life and her beliefs. Never heavy-handed, Modica weaves her religious themes seamlessly into this adventurous tale." --David Penchansky, professor emeritus of theology, University of St. Thomas " The Reclamation is an engaging and timely exploration of the disastrous consequences of combining religious faith with political power in a country we can easily recognize. The seventeen-year-old protagonist, Wylie, is a wonderfully drawn character who exhibits vulnerability, strength, and intelligence. The Reclamation is a strong testament to the power of faith, bravery, and questioning in a turbulent time not at all removed from the present.
" --Lori Magnuson, counselor "With increasing attention being paid to the rise of white Christian nationalism, The Reclamation could not be timelier. As a professor at a Christian university, Marianne Modica knows the landscape she describes well. With overtones from The Handmaid's Tale , she deftly outlines the tragic consequences of a theocracy. Her novel warns of Christianity gone horribly wrong and provides hope that another Christianity, a Christianity that loves, will prevail. This novel is well suited for the time we are living in." --Kathryn Lee, professor emerita of political science, Whitworth University "Marianne Modica paints a future AmeriChristianity in a Venn diagram of Committed and Uncommitted, Trebs and Basses, watered-down and authoritative, deviant and faithful. Like Bradbury's Montag, Modica introduces Wylie, Darwin, and four-legged Monty as they navigate hunger, questions, and the shadows. Thankfully, Modica also butterflies forgiveness into the same Venn diagram: freely given, freely received.
My fingers are crossed for a sequel." --Jesse M. Brown, A.B.E. instructor, New Castle Correctional Facility.