About the Book
One nation under his reign.
Cardinal sins of man caused humanity to pay the price. Cali Nasser grew up in a world succeeding World War III. The aftermath forced the world dictatorship that she must now live in. A new Regime arose from the ashes. They demanded obedience and cooperation from every citizen, even in matters of the heart.
One domain … One accord … One nation. That is the moral code. In Cali’s eyes, it all revolves around a twisted plot for control.
It used to sicken Cali how people would allow the Regime to test their love through the Temptation Trials. That is, until she met Kincade. Cali’s entire point of view changes when she falls for him. She struggles with herself, debating if she should challenge the government’s law of arranged marriage.
Cali’s childhood friend, Stefani, always kept a positive perspective about their lives until she was threatened with the same dilemma, at odds over the man she loves.
Now Cali and Stefani face a desperate choice—submit to the Regime’s will, or fight for what they value most—love. Although lust, mistaken for love, could lead to damnation. Do they give up on love or sign up for the Temptation Trials, a reality TV show where every temptation is laid before them?
The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak. Can love save their souls?
My Review
Whew, this was quite the read. The first half of the book really pulled me in, and it was interesting to read about this new world and try to imagine living in it. I was easily hooked into the story, but there is quite a shift when we get to the second half. The Amazon synopsis did warn that the book contained mature content, and it does get quite sexually graphic in several areas once Cali and company enter the Temptation Trials. It got a little much for me in some areas, but I could try to understand how it made sense to the story and the mystery behind the reality TV show. I think the editing could have been tighter throughout – many repetitive areas, especially when it came to describing eyes – and there were some areas that I thought could have been condensed to move the story along quicker, especially because there are two really distinct parts of this novel. Overall still an interesting read for a mature audience, and I would be interested in reading the second.
3.5 stars
