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The Beginning of Sorrows: The Complete Box Set: An Apocalyptic Saga of the End Times
For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against and there shall be earthquakes in divers places, and there shall be famines and These are the beginnings of sorrows. Mark 13:8
When Agent Joshua Stone is called to a high-level meeting at the Department of Homeland Security, he learns about a new global order which will be transitioning into power. Stone is read in on the plan for a single planetary government and a world-wide cashless-currency, which will step in to fill the void left by the failing monetary system. To win wide acceptance by the nations of the world, the old system must first be allowed to fail, bringing about a state of global chaos never before seen by mankind. Once desperation has taken the place of pride and hubris, humanity will beg for the proposed one-world empire led by the charismatic tech guru Lucius Alexander.
The United States will fall without a single shot being fired.
While still considered a sovereign nation under the new global charter, America is required to make some major adjustments in order to fit in. One of the mandatory changes comes in the form of oppressive firearms restrictions. Agent Stone is tasked with infiltrating a group of anti-government nationalists to monitor their activities in the wake of the new gun ban. But what he learns from the group while working undercover causes him to question if he is on the right side of the fight.
The final world empire will demand absolute loyalty.
Stone will have to make an impossible choice. If he chooses to ignore the information gleaned during his time undercover, he will violate his deepest personal convictions. However, if he turns his back on the Global Union, he’ll put not only his own life on the line, but also those of his wife and son.
Don’t miss this chilling depiction of what America will look like in the last days. Listen to The Beginning of Sorrows, a heart-stopping tale of the end times, today!
As with all works by Mark Goodwin, this book contains no profanity and no embarrassing sex scenes. However, if you're offended by conservative principles and references to Scripture, this book might not be for you.
When Agent Joshua Stone is called to a high-level meeting at the Department of Homeland Security, he learns about a new global order which will be transitioning into power. Stone is read in on the plan for a single planetary government and a world-wide cashless-currency, which will step in to fill the void left by the failing monetary system. To win wide acceptance by the nations of the world, the old system must first be allowed to fail, bringing about a state of global chaos never before seen by mankind. Once desperation has taken the place of pride and hubris, humanity will beg for the proposed one-world empire led by the charismatic tech guru Lucius Alexander.
The United States will fall without a single shot being fired.
While still considered a sovereign nation under the new global charter, America is required to make some major adjustments in order to fit in. One of the mandatory changes comes in the form of oppressive firearms restrictions. Agent Stone is tasked with infiltrating a group of anti-government nationalists to monitor their activities in the wake of the new gun ban. But what he learns from the group while working undercover causes him to question if he is on the right side of the fight.
The final world empire will demand absolute loyalty.
Stone will have to make an impossible choice. If he chooses to ignore the information gleaned during his time undercover, he will violate his deepest personal convictions. However, if he turns his back on the Global Union, he’ll put not only his own life on the line, but also those of his wife and son.
Don’t miss this chilling depiction of what America will look like in the last days. Listen to The Beginning of Sorrows, a heart-stopping tale of the end times, today!
As with all works by Mark Goodwin, this book contains no profanity and no embarrassing sex scenes. However, if you're offended by conservative principles and references to Scripture, this book might not be for you.
Audible Audio
Published October 31, 2022
About the author
Mark Goodwin
212 books436 followersMark Goodwin is a Christian author and host of the popular Prepper Recon Podcast which interviews patriots, preppers and economists to help people prepare for the uncertain times ahead. His previous fiction series, The Days of Noah spent several months at number one on the Amazon best-sellers list in multiple categories. His first series, The Economic Collapse Chronicles, also hit the Amazon best-sellers list in several categories.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
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November 26, 2022Remember, this is fiction. Just like every author, Mark Goodwin uses real-life events and other material as inspiration for his stories. It's fiction inspired by the non-fiction.
I really enjoy Mark Goodwin's writing. He writes for the veteran prepper and the novice. The political, secular, and Christian narratives unfold in the telling of his relatable stories. You'll recognize similar events to real-life current events without feeling like you're being fed a cheesy story. For a "Christian" book, it has some shocking scenes that I did not expect but was unexpectedly pleased with. I will say that I didn't like the way this series ended but I still can't wait to read the next series.
I really enjoy Mark Goodwin's writing. He writes for the veteran prepper and the novice. The political, secular, and Christian narratives unfold in the telling of his relatable stories. You'll recognize similar events to real-life current events without feeling like you're being fed a cheesy story. For a "Christian" book, it has some shocking scenes that I did not expect but was unexpectedly pleased with. I will say that I didn't like the way this series ended but I still can't wait to read the next series.
December 6, 2022
Apocalyptic Trilogy
Excellent, quick, intense, and scripture based! A great read for teens and young adults to introduce them to the end times!
Excellent, quick, intense, and scripture based! A great read for teens and young adults to introduce them to the end times!
April 28, 2025
Ideal for readers who enjoy faith-based dystopian fiction, survivalist themes, or prophetic narratives. If you’re new to Goodwin, this is a great introduction to his work. Check it out on Kindle Unlimited or Audible (narrated excellently by Kevin Pierce) for an immersive experiencepp.
The series follows Agent Joshua Stone, a Department of Homeland Security operative tasked with infiltrating a group of anti-government nationalists amid a new gun ban. As Stone uncovers a global conspiracy involving a one-world government, he grapples with a moral dilemma: remain loyal to the Global Union or risk everything—his life, his wife, and his son—to stand against it. The narrative weaves real-world issues like economic collapse, skyrocketing inflation, and weaponized crises with biblical references, particularly from Mark 13:8 and Revelation, to craft a chilling vision of America in the “last days.”
Goodwin excels at grounding his fiction in plausible scenarios inspired by current events, making the story feel eerily prescient. Themes of faith, redemption, and resilience shine through, as characters like Stone, his wife Stephanie, and others navigate a world of chaos, betrayal, and spiritual warfare. The series doesn’t shy away from conservative principles or scripture, which may not appeal to all readers but adds authenticity for its target audience.
True to Goodwin’s style, the series contains no profanity, explicit sex, or gratuitous violence, making it suitable for readers seeking faith-based fiction without compromising intensity. Some shocking scenes still pack a punch, which I found refreshing for a Christian novel.
As a prepper advocate, Goodwin weaves in valuable survival tips—stockpiling supplies, hardening defenses, and preparing for crises—that readers, including myself, found educational. It’s like a survival guide wrapped in a thrilling story.
The series follows Agent Joshua Stone, a Department of Homeland Security operative tasked with infiltrating a group of anti-government nationalists amid a new gun ban. As Stone uncovers a global conspiracy involving a one-world government, he grapples with a moral dilemma: remain loyal to the Global Union or risk everything—his life, his wife, and his son—to stand against it. The narrative weaves real-world issues like economic collapse, skyrocketing inflation, and weaponized crises with biblical references, particularly from Mark 13:8 and Revelation, to craft a chilling vision of America in the “last days.”
Goodwin excels at grounding his fiction in plausible scenarios inspired by current events, making the story feel eerily prescient. Themes of faith, redemption, and resilience shine through, as characters like Stone, his wife Stephanie, and others navigate a world of chaos, betrayal, and spiritual warfare. The series doesn’t shy away from conservative principles or scripture, which may not appeal to all readers but adds authenticity for its target audience.
True to Goodwin’s style, the series contains no profanity, explicit sex, or gratuitous violence, making it suitable for readers seeking faith-based fiction without compromising intensity. Some shocking scenes still pack a punch, which I found refreshing for a Christian novel.
As a prepper advocate, Goodwin weaves in valuable survival tips—stockpiling supplies, hardening defenses, and preparing for crises—that readers, including myself, found educational. It’s like a survival guide wrapped in a thrilling story.
November 16, 2023
One of the Best I’ve Read!
I have to say that the reality in this book deeply touched me chapter after chapter. The things I learned about being prepared and getting supplies, etc. was invaluable. And even thought I don’t agree with the conclusion I gave it 5 Stars. I totally believe that Jesus is coming back but I hold to the ancient teachings of the church that there is no secret coming where Jesus “raptures” believers. If you believe that then this book is the greatest for you. All the while I was reading I knew that Mark believes but again, this was one of his finest works. I highly recommend it!
I have to say that the reality in this book deeply touched me chapter after chapter. The things I learned about being prepared and getting supplies, etc. was invaluable. And even thought I don’t agree with the conclusion I gave it 5 Stars. I totally believe that Jesus is coming back but I hold to the ancient teachings of the church that there is no secret coming where Jesus “raptures” believers. If you believe that then this book is the greatest for you. All the while I was reading I knew that Mark believes but again, this was one of his finest works. I highly recommend it!
June 22, 2024
ANOTHER GREAT SERIES!
Lots of action, dedicated well developed characters, perseverance, creativity, fortitude, and valor are poured into the pages of this series. I read each book, one right after the other, and loved that they blended so well into each other. I do enjoy Mark’s books and love the fact that his stories, though they be fiction, are not filled with curse words, demented or debased scenarios. They also continue to open my eyes to the world around me…how lazy we have all become to acknowledge what REALLY matters…our relationship with the true God and his word, The Holy Bible.
Lots of action, dedicated well developed characters, perseverance, creativity, fortitude, and valor are poured into the pages of this series. I read each book, one right after the other, and loved that they blended so well into each other. I do enjoy Mark’s books and love the fact that his stories, though they be fiction, are not filled with curse words, demented or debased scenarios. They also continue to open my eyes to the world around me…how lazy we have all become to acknowledge what REALLY matters…our relationship with the true God and his word, The Holy Bible.
May 3, 2026
Mark Goodwin is a phenomenal author!!!
I have loved each and every book or series of his that I've read. I pray that he keeps writing these wonderful books and keeps bringing more people to our Savior. God bless you, Mark Goodwin. Oh, I've tried several times to search for hard copies (paperbacks?) of the boxset - American Wasteland. I keep trying to find your website.
I have loved each and every book or series of his that I've read. I pray that he keeps writing these wonderful books and keeps bringing more people to our Savior. God bless you, Mark Goodwin. Oh, I've tried several times to search for hard copies (paperbacks?) of the boxset - American Wasteland. I keep trying to find your website.
November 3, 2023
Awesome read
This book was great from the beginning til the last word ! I look forward too continuing the story with Emilio and Mackenzie as they navigate through the later half of the tribulation.
This book was great from the beginning til the last word ! I look forward too continuing the story with Emilio and Mackenzie as they navigate through the later half of the tribulation.
September 19, 2024
best books I’ve read
Loved the authors knowledge of scripture and prepping. Could hardly put the books down. So appreciate the author not using any profanity, etc. Truly a talented writer.
Loved the authors knowledge of scripture and prepping. Could hardly put the books down. So appreciate the author not using any profanity, etc. Truly a talented writer.
June 25, 2025
Tomorrow Will Come-Be Prepared
Good cast of characters and lots of fast action. Taking Biblical warnings from Revelation and place in realistic detail very close to home. You have difficulty dismissing the words in Revelations.
Good cast of characters and lots of fast action. Taking Biblical warnings from Revelation and place in realistic detail very close to home. You have difficulty dismissing the words in Revelations.
January 18, 2026
A real page turner
Mark Goodwin did not disappoint! I couldn't put down this Saga until I had read the entire set. I love how Mark weaves his stories around the Bible, making reading then so much more real for me. I have to remind myself it is just entertainment....or is it?
Mark Goodwin did not disappoint! I couldn't put down this Saga until I had read the entire set. I love how Mark weaves his stories around the Bible, making reading then so much more real for me. I have to remind myself it is just entertainment....or is it?
March 4, 2026
good series
Fun to read and for the most part the author is correct. Paul said for Christians to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. It’s the old testament saints that will rise when Jesus returns. Loved the series and glad to find out there is more.
Fun to read and for the most part the author is correct. Paul said for Christians to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. It’s the old testament saints that will rise when Jesus returns. Loved the series and glad to find out there is more.
April 12, 2026
Riveting
For anyone who is Christian and believes in apocalyptic scenarios, this is an outstanding series of books. The scriptures come alive as you see, and read about the experiences of our hero and his family. Low be the man who ignores God and the scriptures.
For anyone who is Christian and believes in apocalyptic scenarios, this is an outstanding series of books. The scriptures come alive as you see, and read about the experiences of our hero and his family. Low be the man who ignores God and the scriptures.
February 27, 2023
Good fast paced action with a last days theme (biblical)
March 19, 2023
Could not put it down.
It reads as it shall be. Good survival tips and solid believable action during which I laughed and cried and prayed that I might be so brave.
It reads as it shall be. Good survival tips and solid believable action during which I laughed and cried and prayed that I might be so brave.
June 24, 2023
Enjoyed series
Enjoyed this complete boxed set very much. Having scriptures at the beginning of each chapter was a plus too. Makes you think to be prepared in more ways than one.
Enjoyed this complete boxed set very much. Having scriptures at the beginning of each chapter was a plus too. Makes you think to be prepared in more ways than one.
July 8, 2023
Captivating Read
This is a great book to help us understand the potential happenings of the end times. Mark is a gifted author to help us visualize what could happen.
This is a great book to help us understand the potential happenings of the end times. Mark is a gifted author to help us visualize what could happen.
February 19, 2025
Truth!
I realize that this is fiction, but it's based on truth and is faithful to God' s word. Thank you, Mark!
I realize that this is fiction, but it's based on truth and is faithful to God' s word. Thank you, Mark!
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews