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Seven Cows, Ugly and Gaunt #1

Behold, Darkness and Sorrow

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Danny and Alisa's lives are turned upside down when Danny begins having prophetic dreams about the judgment coming upon America. Through one of Danny’s dreams, they learn about the imminent threat of an EMP attack which will wipe out America’s electric grid, sending the country into a technological dark age. Living in a nation where life-sustaining systems of support are completely dependent on electricity and computers, the odds for survival are dismal. Municipal water services, retail food distribution, police, fire, EMS and emergency services will come to a screeching halt. If they want to live through the most catastrophic period in American history, Danny and Alisa will have to race against time to get prepared, before the lights go out. Buy your copy of Behold Darkness and Sorrow and jump into this post-apocalyptic, survival-fiction thriller, today! As with all books by Mark Goodwin, this book contains no profanity and no embarrassing sex scenes. However, if you're offended by conservative principles and biblical references, this book might not be for you.

374 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 10, 2016

356 people are currently reading
227 people want to read

About the author

Mark Goodwin

105 books404 followers
Mark 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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5 stars
406 (59%)
4 stars
189 (27%)
3 stars
63 (9%)
2 stars
12 (1%)
1 star
15 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
Profile Image for Karen.
34 reviews
July 3, 2016
I wanted to like this book. I am always looking for a book to rival the Left Behind series. This book is NOT it. It is written at an extremely childish level.

It is also full of preaching. One expects and enjoys preaching about God from such a book. Unfortunately and unnecessarily, it strong arms the reader about government, the public schools, and everything else under the sun.

I almost quit reading when, in the the first chapter, the protagonist who is driving, "pulled up to the curve."
5 reviews
August 2, 2016
Very unappealing book. I was initially interested because I was wondering how the author would reconcile the teachings of Christ with the self-centered surivalist ethos of the genre. But got to about 1/3 through the book and the most apocalyptic event was a dip in the stock market. Just couldn't take the sermonizing any longer, so moved on.
Profile Image for Nicki Rhode keck.
94 reviews9 followers
March 10, 2017
This book was great! I have enjoyed everything I have read by this author so far. Can't wait to read more!
70 reviews4 followers
July 8, 2017
Finally, a novel for Christians about the Possibilities of an EMP

I have really enjoyed reading Mark Goodwin's apocalyptic novels. He makes a point of writing a great story without the ugly language and sex. He bases his novels on Christianity and Holy Scriptures. Novels of this type force us to consider not only our contingency plans for the future but also our faith in God.
Profile Image for Zachary.
2 reviews
November 1, 2019
A young man named Danny begins having prophetic dreams about the financial collapse of America. Soon, the stock market takes a dive, confirming his prophetic dream. Just as he thinks things can’t get any worse, another dream warns him of an impending EMP about to darken the continent. Danny and a small group of friends and family race against time to get out of the city and head to his grandmother’s farm seeking safety. But there’s none to be had in this new chaotic world where man’s depraved and violent nature only becomes more and more evident with the passing of time.

The Seven Cows, Ugly and Gaunt Series was another excellent read from Mark Goodwin. It's the story of a man whose fervent faith carries him through the most difficult and trying of times. As with his other books, this novel set lacks profane and sexual content, making it that much more enjoyable. The only negative thing I have to say about the series is that it’s written from a heavily Protestant perspective. Although the author isn’t negative toward Catholicism in his writing, his soteriology does bleed through.

I rate this title an A and would definitely recommend it.
14 reviews1 follower
February 24, 2016
Another good story from Mark Goodwin.

If you liked Mark's previous works you will enjoy this as well. A bit of a departure from economic collapse to EMP but still a good prepper-fiction tale. He works in some useful info as usual so there is some practical learing along with entertainment.

It should come as no surprise to Mark's readers that there is a spiritual aspect to his work as well. This goes deeper in that category. Even more than "Days of Noah." I learned that I am pretty much (but not entirely) a "cessationist." I had never heard that term before reading this. I will work some personal study time on that subject into my schedule in the near future.

Bottom Line: READ THIS BOOK.
Profile Image for Brandon.
556 reviews35 followers
April 6, 2016
So far, this new series is proving to be another masterful work of fiction by the same author that wrote the American Collapse and Days of Noah series'. This book starts off a little slower than some of his other books as far as action goes, but his skill at writing good dialogue and creating the personal world of the characters has gotten even better. Despite the lack of action I still found myself flying through pages.

The story is a great, realistic view of the simple and basic ways any average person can get prepared for any disaster. In this case, Goodwin basically lays out a Christian guide for life in modern America.
I'm awaiting the next book in the series with great anticipation. I expect that it shall be even better than the first.
Profile Image for RJ.
2,044 reviews13 followers
August 16, 2016
Mark Goodwin is an excellent author who I enjoy as a breath of fresh air with something different and unique rather than the usual fare. His choice of narrators is also spot on. Rather than preaching as some accuse, I see Goodwin as blending his Christian beliefs with an interesting and educational story. The main character Daniel starts out as a complete noob as far as prepping goes and through his friends and family learns what it takes to be prepared for an apocalyptic event. Take notes my friends, the man knows what he's talking about. A little exposure to God's Word won't hurt you either.
Profile Image for Cindy .
699 reviews2 followers
September 2, 2020
Another great book! Wish I could read the whole see, but I'll have to wait till they're free as I can't afford to buy all the books now. It's quite possible that we will soon be seeing many of the scenes in this book in real life. I am not a prepper and have no intention of becoming one. There have been a number of times when people have gone through very hard times and the believers survived because God took care of them. I know He will take care of me if something like that happens. But I Highly recommend this book and series, and all his books for that matter.
104 reviews7 followers
September 17, 2016
TRULY EXCELLENT - apocalypse story with Christian perspective

Loved this whole book. Clean language, wholesome standards...and an intriguing plot propelled by spiritual awakenings.

The scenario isn't sugared coated -- bad things happen, but with faith the characters get through. Some pretty good prepping tips in there, too!

Looking forward to this author's next in the series, and I'll also search out his other works.

Definitely recommended
Profile Image for Robert Lewter.
939 reviews5 followers
January 16, 2019
I needed this one. It reminded me why we prepare and helped me refocus on life and my state of readiness. It also caused me to look at the readiness of my spiritual life.

The blend of technical tips, preparation methods, right living, and what if scenarios, all together with current events and Biblical prophecy to tell a barnburner of a story about 3(4) amazing young people makes for a super read.

Thank you, Mr.Goodwin
Profile Image for Michelle Welch.
147 reviews1 follower
December 15, 2024
interesting EMP/apocalypse book

Mark Goodwin's books about end times are filled with great storylines, scripture and survival lessons. This book dragged a few times and was a bit off kilter, but it was a good read. I look forward to the rest of the series. Living in the area the book is set in felt like what I would have to do if an EMP came while I was traveling.
A group of friends, an EMP and prophetic dreams make for a great setting to this end times book.
Profile Image for S.M..
Author 5 books13 followers
July 4, 2017
So if you asked me to review this book I would do it in two parts.

1. The message. I would give you a 5 stars for the warning and the scripture.

2. The writing, character development and general story. I would give it a 2 stars. I don't mean to be Reid's, but the characters lack depth, the ability to connect with the reader, and the writing, description and general story needs a lot of work.
18 reviews
July 14, 2017
Good book!

I really enjoyed this book and I found it hard to put down once I started reading it. Also, it was nice to read a story with characters that had good morals, though not perfect people. It gives you things to think about, like, do people today have visions from God? Buy it, you'll like it, and learn about EMP' s and prepping.
Profile Image for Brenda.
195 reviews10 followers
February 26, 2020
Very good!

It just proves that you can write a good story that flows and brings the characters to life without filling the pages with vulgarity. I read far into the night and finished it the next night, because I wanted to know about the third dream. A cliffhanger!!! Do yourself a favor and get the complete set.
183 reviews2 followers
February 3, 2021
get ready to.start prepping and praying like never before

Mark.invites you into a frighteningly real tale of what could happen . Its starts with a dream and ends again by not being able to.put the book down. Peppers know that they need a plan; yours need to.include.having all four books ready ,I! Picking up the next exciting book now.
Profile Image for Allen Gregory.
Author 5 books5 followers
December 11, 2021
I Don't Usually Like Doomsday Scenario Books...
... But this was a breath of fresh air... Mark Goodwin is a fine storyteller and I especially enjoyed the narrative os this being told from a Christian's perspective. Nice job if building the premise slowly and laying the groundwork to set up an excellent opening book of a new series. I look forward to reading the other books in the series.
475 reviews3 followers
February 16, 2016
Wow!

After reading the Days of Noah, I was pretty sure this book would be well written. I am blown away and grabbed from the beginning and had to finish in one go. God's prophecy is for all who will read and ask for understanding. I can't wait for the next story.
46 reviews
March 18, 2016
Great Story

What a great story line. I live near Savannah, GA.
Was nice to be able to relate to these well developed characters and their surroundings. Good prepper information, and advice.
7 reviews
April 11, 2016
Ugh. If I wanted a Christian religious tract I would have read that. The writing reads more like a "See Spot Run" books. The character development is poor and the dialog is forced in order to "preach" and just expound on the author's religious views.
46 reviews2 followers
July 24, 2016
Survival

I enjoy reading EMP survival books, but this one was really good from a Christian perspective. A lot of writers are Christian and try to slip some godly text into their books but this one was "all the way" from the beginning. Thank you for that.
Profile Image for Val Shaw.
126 reviews3 followers
July 26, 2017
Loved it!

I'm so glad I found this series and author! I read this genre often and it's so nice to read it with Jesus being the hero I know Him to be. I've got a lot of catching up to do in this series but I read fast, lol. On to the next one!
Profile Image for Jennifer.
43 reviews1 follower
February 21, 2018
The beginning of another excellent and compelling apocalyptic series by Mark Goodwin. The realism makes this particularly compelling while the scientific accuracy keeps it interesting. I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys apocalypse or dystopian fiction with a strong faith base.
52 reviews1 follower
February 21, 2021
Started slow

The religious and Bible verse aspect was different. If that is not your cup of tea then you probably should skip this one. But, it was a very good post apocalyptic story and I will get the next one.
Profile Image for Aaron Stewart.
53 reviews
May 31, 2023
Slow moving book to start the series, but it is suspenseful enough to keep your attention. You want Danny and his friends to get back home unscathed as the country begins to unravel during these apocalyptic times. But will they?
Profile Image for maria.
35 reviews1 follower
March 19, 2016
Believing

I choose this rating because the trust that Danny had and relying on God and encouraging others to and obeying God.
Profile Image for Johnathan.
Author 4 books2 followers
September 21, 2016
Great first book for the series

I enjoyed reading the book. I hope we hear what happened to the preacher from the church they attended in the next book.
Profile Image for Brad Gonzales.
9 reviews1 follower
June 3, 2016
.

One of my favorite authors. I was glad to see a new series. Good character development tied in with good teaching
Profile Image for Daniel.
172 reviews5 followers
September 2, 2016
Excellent just like all his books! Always pick up interesting and different tips in these books if you like apocalyptic fiction you'll like this one too.
43 reviews1 follower
September 20, 2016
Very good

Little over the top on going to mamas but overall really good read.don't know why have to fill twenty words
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews

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