ARCHANGEL
The Last Patriots Book 1
civil war. invasion. betrayal.
They've done their best to be at peace with all men . . . but peace has been rejected.
“…All experience hath shewn, that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security.” ~ Declaration of Independence – 1776
It was no surprise when the wars began. The powers that be had taken great pains to stoke the fires of division and hatred among the once free people of the no longer United States, and thereby strip all liberty, citing the people were no longer fit to think for themselves.
It was chaos. There were no battle lines, just people fueled by both fear and anger taking whatever they felt was their right, or necessary to survive. Violence erupted almost simultaneously in cities all across the country. D.C. was set ablaze, sending the government into hiding. People took matters into their own hands, defending their homes and families or fleeing into the countryside and wilderness.
Martial Law was enacted, but most of the military had already deserted out of necessity to protect their own. Within days, what military was left was forced to pull back as city after city fell to the violence. But this was only the beginning…
Living in the middle of nowhere, Minnesota, had kept them out of the troubles for the most part. They were a few of the lucky ones, able to fend for themselves, that is, until the Chinese military rolled up. Without warning, everything in their simple world went sideways.
Shivering in a damp ditch, cradling is father’s quivering body, 17-year-old Aaron Redding is the only one to hear his father’s final gasp, “Keep them safe…”
Against impossible odds. On the darkest of nights. When all hope is lost.
One truth remains.
LOVE. NEVER. FAILS.
WATCH THE TRAILER
REVIEWS
“Joel and Esther Ribbey take you on a wild patriotic journey into a future post-civil war America, painting a vivid picture of what life could become if democracy is lost and communism prevails. The story is told through the experiences of one American family torn between patriotic duty and their humanity. The Ribbey’s illustrative storytelling ability keeps you on the edge of your seat. It’s a story I won’t soon forget and a day I hope this country never sees. A must read!” ~ A.H.
“A timely and thrilling story of modern day knights, heroism, and strength of character. An exciting account of survival against all odds and the triumph of good over evil. An inspiring reminder of who we are, why we are here, and where we are going.” ~ R.T.
“A story for now, that mines the depths of one’s soul as you follow the journey of one family trying to find their way through modern civil war, and ultimately invasion. It uncovers all the questions we’re already asking ourselves and shares one family’s perspective. ARCHANGEL The Last Patriots is relevant, relatable, and revelatory. The very values this family holds dear are tested at every turn. Each family member finds something in themselves they didn’t know existed. The ultimate question of “Will it be enough?” will propel you through the story to the last page.” ~ B.J.
“This is a VERY good read from my friends. Suspense thriller, desires of the heart, and the quest for freedom all wrapped up neatly in a novel of possible future times plucked from today’s headlines. It gives a glimpse into future possibilities resulting from today’s tumultuous times, but also what faith, love, and hope can do to overcome what may seem impossible. Each chapter builds anticipation and makes the book hard to put down! Being from Minnesota, it brought written scenes to magical life in my mind’s eye. Highly recommended!” ~ R.P.
“From the beginning to the end, this book is filled with the struggles of human thoughts and emotions in times of survival and armed defense. The story reveals the conflict of being human while also being Christian. The family depicted in this book seem real right from the beginning as their internal conflicts are revealed. Their emotions are sometimes raw and even crippling, yet their support of each other and their faith during their journey overcomes their weaknesses and shows the reason why family and friends are so important.
The writers of this book seem to truly understand the brand of patriotism that is ingrained in the conservative mind that speaks to the core of what makes us Americans. I found myself identifying with the words of the mother, but the writer is much more eloquent in putting those thoughts to paper than I am.
The situations that arise seem certainly hopeless during their journey, but all the way; love with wisdom and faith determines their actions and provides the courage needed to win out. Under the guidance of the mother, the love that withstands danger regardless of race, age, or threat is shown throughout the book. At the end of the book, I found myself looking forward to a sequel so that I can follow that family’s story even farther.” ~ S.B.