The Dark Foundations

Trials and tribulations abound as not only Farholme but also Ancient Earth start to become much more recognizable to our present day society instead of the (to merely Earthly eyes) impossibly good society of the Assembly. Doubt, factions, politics, power struggles, infighting, and the worst part is that all of them are (or at least started out as) good people honestly trying to do the right thing. Perhaps it is a sad commentary on us that we can more readily identify with corruption than perfection, more with Satan than with God (especially in Milton's _Paradise Lost_), and that (barring the Second Coming) society is much more likely to be like the Dominion rather than the Assembly. Still, this is another excellent book that uses the setting and genre of science fiction to explore right and wrong, and provoke long and hard thought about the questions and answers. As far as looking forward to The Infinite Day? Well, I loved the first books, and the closing lines of The Dark Foundations will be (in any just world) utterly classic across any genre: "Vero, you remember you once said there were people who would follow me to the gates of hell?" "A figure of speech." "We'd better find them. That's where we're going."

Life has been hard for the citizens of Farholme. They've faced many dangers, but the worse is yet to come. A space ship from Below Space, piloted by Captain Lezaroth is approaching. The captain is determined to conquer Farholme and bring it under the control of the lord-emperor. Unlike the Assembly, the Dominion from where Lezaroth comes has never stopped preparing for war. Their weapons are more powerful, their technique more advanced. Lezaroth's most formidable weapons are thousands of wolf-like machines, called Krallen. And while the citizens of Farholme struggle to accept the existance of evil, Lezaroth and his men are cold and ruthless. The banner of The Lamb and the Stars flies above Merral and his troops, but will The Most High help them? Chris Walley knows just how to kick up the suspense another notch. The Dark Foundations is a wild story of action, danger, fear and faith, and is possibly the best one yet in this absorbing series. If you like futuristic fiction, don't miss this one.

Excellent work! Chris Walley's writing is very well done. His ability to draw us into the world that he creates in this series is pure enjoyment. I was able to believe and understand without having to work hard at concentrating on characters and places. The characters are developed beautifully and the dynamic of their relationships come to life. Nothing is awkward, but fits together really well and flows easily, leaving the reader with the feeling that there is plenty more to come. The third book of the series does not let down or flounder. When, in fact, the story unfolds there is so much more impact than what was expected. I'm left anxiously waiting for the fourth book. The real beauty is the spiritual gems that come through at different places in the story. The author weaves a great tale with truths to chew on. If you like christian fiction, you will enjoy this read. If you like science fiction themes on top of that, you'll love this read.

Engrossing book, the main problem is the wait between books- although that just gives me an excuse to read all the books again. I finished the book in 2 sittings and thoroughly enjoyed the read. The main characters flaws are all to realistic and can be empathised by the reader.

Walley's writing continues to amaze, entertain, and enlighten. This series shows incredible imagination and much spiritual insight. If I had to sum it up....it's "Star Wars" the way it should have been written...with the real "dark side" against the heavenly forces. I have and will continue to strongly recommend it to all my friends. I only have a couple of small eschatological reservations, and I don't think those interfere at all with the enjoyment of a great series. It's not the idea of a sinless milennium much longer than a thousand years...that's always been open to interpretation. But the characters living sinless lives don't seem to have much of an intimate or spirit-filled interior life with God. That didn't ring true. And in this book, there is a strong demonic power with the ability to read human minds. That would violate our free will. However, neither of these would cause me to give Walley's marvelous writing anything less than a top recommendation. Also, as others have indicated in reviewing the first couple of books in this series...the category of "young adult" isn't really accurate. Adults will enjoy thoroughly...and may glean more spritual insight as well. Job well done...can't wait for the final book!