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Subversive #2

Sanctuary

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Six months after fleeing the Task Force, Gemma Alcott and a handful of fellow believers have found refuge deep in the Pennsylvania wilderness. Tucked away in a hidden encampment known as the Sanctuary, supplied by an aging bookstore owner and her quiet network of allies, it feels—for the first time—like peace. Each night, Gemma falls asleep in Taylor’s arms, surrounded by trees, silence, and the fragile hope that maybe, just maybe, they’re safe.

But the past won’t stay buried. Gavin still lingers in her thoughts. And Mullen, the ruthless redheaded soldier, stalks her dreams like a shadow she can’t shake. When the Task Force locks down the nearby town of Winter’s Dam, threatening the lives of those keeping the Sanctuary alive, Gemma and Taylor lead a small team into dangerous territory for a rescue mission that goes terribly wrong.

As the fallout threatens to destroy everything they’ve fought to protect, Gemma is forced to confront not only the regime that wants her dead but also the guilt, grief, and unanswered questions that have followed her into the forest. Stripped of everything she loves, she must find her courage, her voice, and her faith in the only sanctuary that cannot be taken away.

Sanctuary is a riveting continuation of The Subversive Trilogy—a story of survival, sacrifice, and the enduring power of faith in the face of overwhelming darkness.

368 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 7, 2021

134 people are currently reading
229 people want to read

About the author

Raena Rood

10 books108 followers
Raena lives in Pennsylvania with her husband and three children. When she’s not writing, she enjoys exploring historic battlefields (her kids always drag her up the tallest lookout towers), family movie nights that feature cheesy 80's and 90's action films, and daydreaming of expanding her backyard farm (goats are still under discussion). Her goal is to write stories that challenge, encourage, and remind readers that even in the darkness, when all hope seems lost, God is always in control.

Find out more at:
https://www.raenarood.com

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5 stars
215 (75%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
Profile Image for AnnaScott.
453 reviews72 followers
June 10, 2021
Let me just start by saying that it feels like it has been ages since I read the first book in this series,Subversive, and subsequently had to wait for this one to come out. In reality I read it just over a year ago, and it just felt like the wait was longer because I was impatient for the story to continue (plus COVID was a thing). :)

In my review for Subversive I mentioned that one of the things that stuck out to me was that it took place in our world. They eat our junk foods, reference our history events, and read our classic literature. The only real difference is that they have a totalitarian government that hates Christianity. While reading this book, I was really struck with how much this really increased the impact, because it made the overarching message more real. I wasn't looking at a world far removed from my own like in The Hunger Games, and so I couldn't pretend as easily that the challenges these characters faced were irrelevant to my life. The overall effect was that it was very thought provoking and challenged me in my own faith and beliefs, which is my favorite part of the dystopian genre.

Moving on to the story itself, I thought it made an excellent sequel to Subversive. I loved getting to see each character grow and change as people, and especially in regards to how Gemma really came into her own as the story progressed. You can tell how much effort Rood put into making each person unique and well-developed. The plot was full of suspense, and I'm dying to see what happens next.

Overall, this was an excellent piece of Christian fiction, and my only complaint is that I can't read the next installment already.
Profile Image for Jeff.
67 reviews3 followers
June 14, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

🤯 🤯 🤯

That is my reaction to finishing this book!

Raena has done it again and in my opinion, this book was even better than the first book!

This book had me on the edge of my seat wanting to keep reading to find out what happened next. Raena’s writing had made me fully invested in the characters in the book and I was actually worried about what might happen to them and what actually happened to them.

I really appreciated the scripture from Paul that was included throughout the book. If any follower of Christ could relate to the characters in this book, it was definitely the Apostle Paul and all the persecution he experienced.

There is no question about which book I will be reading next. I need to read the final book to know what happens to all the characters I am invested in!

I appreciate Raena Rood for spreading the truth of Jesus Christ through her books.

I am glad that I have Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior and I am a subversive to this world! 😃
14 reviews1 follower
January 17, 2022
A series everyone needs to read. Everyone needs to wake up and realize the times we are living in. A great read. It will hold you captive till the end, but leave you wanting more.
Profile Image for Elizabeth Bason.
11 reviews1 follower
July 2, 2024
Yet another great book from Raena Rood, can't wait to start Salvation!
Profile Image for Kimberly.
67 reviews19 followers
July 7, 2021
Throw away your preconceived notions about Christian fiction! This story (and series) is gritty, edgy, thrilling, terrifying, and amazing!

Dystopian novels usually take place in a future world quite different from our own. Sanctuary is dystopian, but doesn’t take place in an imagined society beyond our lifetime. Rather it is current and in our back yards. The story alarmingly approaches nonfiction and that makes it terrifying.

It is hard to read about the rabid desire by those in power to destroy a particular demographic. Whether the focus is on a religion, a race, or any other facet of society that is suddenly deemed unacceptable, complete denial of one’s rights as a free human being is a scary prospect.

There are also wonderful elements to the story! I particularly liked the relationship between Taylor and Gemma. Despite the hiding, fighting, and despair they are suffering, Taylor and Gemma continued to grow in love. They are so perfect together!

The ending is very satisfying. This is the 2nd book in a trilogy though, so the ending has some foreshadowing into the 3rd book… and I can’t wait to read it!!!

I highly recommend this book to everyone. Whether you are Christian, another religion, or not religious at all, I still think the story would make you consider what actions you might take in the face of persecution of this nature. None of us want to be denied our rights as human beings in any respect.

Thank you to the author for a free copy of this book, which I had the honor of Beta reading. My review is provided honestly and voluntarily.
539 reviews2 followers
April 3, 2022
The main character having lost everything she ever loved, parents, fiance, home, friends and believers, etc. she finally has to lean on the one sanctuary that can never be taken away....God.
There is scripture quoted, and application of it.
There is a little bit more violence than I like to read about, but most likely realistic.
64 reviews
April 16, 2023
It is so easy to catch yourself in this book. But which side are you on. Actually there it may be a triangular choice each of the characters made or will make. It is similar in where we are today with choices we make. Good. Evil. Sitting on the fence. You can’t sit on the fence forever. At some point we all have to choose a permanent side.
Profile Image for Kaitlyn-is-Cool.
148 reviews
July 25, 2025
Ahhh!!! The ending! I love Gemma and Taylor but I love even more all the amazing connections! This book makes me reflect on my own faith and how I can strengthen it too
Profile Image for Kristine L..
660 reviews50 followers
June 1, 2021
I couldn't put it down!

The United States has outlawed Christianity. Owning a Bible is a criminal offense. Churches are padlocked. Pastors arrested. Crosses are removed – even on headstones – because “the sight of them upsets people.”

Because “we are all in this together,” neighbors spy on neighbors. Family and friends turn on each other. Task Force soldiers respond to phone calls from “concerned citizens” and neighbors disappear. For good.

Six months after her narrow escape from the Task Force, Gemma Alcott and her fellow “subversives” hide deep in the Pennsylvania wilderness. The hideout, known as the Sanctuary, is for persecuted Christians. They’re being secretly supplied by an elderly book store owner and a group of “sympathizers” in the nearby town of Winter’s Dam.

Gemma and her main squeeze and former Task Force sergeant, Taylor Nolan, think they are safe. But the ruthless, relentless government Task Force raids the town to expose and eliminate those suspected of aiding the “subversives.” Aka: Christians. Aka: “roaches.”

A small group from the Sanctuary that includes Gemma and Taylor decides to fight. They launch a daring rescue mission into Winter’s Dam. But when the mission goes horribly wrong, everything Gemma loves is ripped away. Meanwhile, a relentless Task Forcer whom Gemma previously escaped stalks her nightmares – and her waking hours.

When Gemma loses everything, she slowly realizes that the cross is “the only strong and sturdy thing in her life.” Will it be enough?

With a story that could be ripped from tomorrow’s headlines, Sanctuary is one heckuva barn burner. This fast-paced, faith-based drama takes readers on a riveting roller coaster ride through a smorgasbord of emotion. I couldn’t put it down!

Although this is the second book in the Subversives trilogy, it can also be read as a stand-along. The author provides enough back story and context from the first title so new readers don’t get lost.
Sanctuary is the second book in the Subversive trilogy.

Sanctuary is one of the most powerful books we’ve read all year. Emotionally gripping and razor-sharp, this riveting story will resonate long after the final page.

‘Fize you I’d run, not walk to the nearest book retail outlet and grab a copy. Do not pass Go. Do not collect $200. It’s that good.

Because it’s never too late.
Profile Image for Delphia  Von Heeder .
1,727 reviews50 followers
June 15, 2021
Sanctuary: Fight for Truth is Book 2 in Raena Rood’s Trilogy. Christianity is outlawed and six months after a narrow escape, Gemma, Taylor, Brie, Max and Gavin seek safety in an isolated hunting camp. Sanctuary is a fast paced thriller and well written. As a Christian, I often pray that I will stay strong in the face of persecution if I am faced with serious persecution. Not knowing how safe you are or when/if you will be found will either strengthen your faith in Jesus or if your faith is weak, you will crumble. This is what Gemma and the group of Christians face. Book 2 holds several themes; some are victorious and some are losses. I can’t wait to read book 3 to see how this fabulous trilogy ends. I received an arc for free and am leaving my review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Margarita Rose.
1,182 reviews11 followers
June 9, 2021
Sanctuary is a fast paced read. Gemma and others are hiding out in the forest. They are getting assistance from sympathizers who do not know where they are. The Task Force has arrived near their hideout and are interrogating the townspeople. Killing some people for no good reason. Taylor is missing and no one knows whats become of him. Gavin is not trustworthy. Great Christian fiction novel. I await the next one.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Morëlle.
513 reviews3 followers
June 8, 2021
As in my previous review. This series are exquisite.

***** Although that cliffhanger *****

I will warn you, this book is holy. (I am deeply sorry for the pun. I regret it.) On another note, as much I despise cliffhangers, I will say that how this one ended did do it adequate justice.


I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for The Book Distiller.
604 reviews52 followers
May 28, 2021
Absolutely fantastic. I would recommend reading Subversive (book 1) for a richer context. But December can’t come soon enough for book 3, as Raena Rood left her readers on a cliff hanger. I’m such a fan of this dystopian series
Profile Image for Bonny Rambarran.
1,521 reviews21 followers
June 17, 2021
THIS BOOK -- seriously will make you think about what could happen . . . and what would do if you were being persecuted and condemned JUST for being a Christian. ACTION plus. Amazing book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
3 reviews
October 18, 2021
Easy read and the story flowed seamlessly from the 1st book in trilogy.
Characters stayed true to form and for me, it keeps me wondering what I would do in the
same situation. Looking forward to the final book!
221 reviews3 followers
February 28, 2022
Thrilling Christian Book

Mrs. Arena Rood continues to capture readers with her exquisitely developed characters and a timely plot that is relevant to today's world. I can't wait to read the final book in this trilogy.
Profile Image for Chris Meiser.
183 reviews7 followers
September 20, 2021
Awesome book! Couldn’t put it down! Had to know what would happen next! Very thought provoking! This is book 3 of the Subversive Triology. I read & loved book 1! Can’t wait for book 3!
Profile Image for Chris Meiser.
14 reviews2 followers
September 21, 2021
Thought provoking!

Awesome book! I didn't want to put it down! I had to
see what would happen next! Very thought provoking!
1 review
November 13, 2021
Makes you think about where we could be headed…

Something like this could/may be happening in America soon. It’s already going on in other countries. What would you do?
Profile Image for Tina.
52 reviews
January 22, 2022
Onward Christian Soldiers

Let's go ahead with the next one in line. This one was better than the 1st one. That one was setting up this one.
Profile Image for Andi.
154 reviews2 followers
October 1, 2025
Still completely wrapped up in this trilogy! Raena does a fantastic job of helping her characters lean on God and conveying their faith and hope in Christ.
366 reviews6 followers
May 12, 2021
I received an ARC to review: this second instalment in the trilogy was as compelling as the first! A nail-biting ride and a half! It's entertaining for sure, but there is a depth to it that pierces beyond mere fiction - this is what 'the last days' could look like for Believers in Jesus. The main characters, a community of Believers forged into a family by their shared faith and fight to survive are so real in their humanity and total reliance on God. The twists and turns with the Task Force soldiers, the sympathisers and unseen enemies makes for a riveting read. The story does not wrap up quite yet, but this book ends in a good place and on a good note. A thought-provoking, faith-stirring, thoroughly rewarding read!! 10 stars!!!
640 reviews6 followers
September 16, 2025
Your salvation is coming !

Sad, edge of your seat situations, heart breaking outcomes but if you endure your salvation is coming.
Maybe it won't look like this but it's coming.
Profile Image for Kevin Cannon (Monty's Book Reviews).
1,308 reviews24 followers
December 28, 2022
Book 2 in the Subversive trilogy continues the struggle of the Sanctuary's residents to live a Christian life away from persecution with the aid of help from the nearby town.

Gemma and Taylor are forced to leave the Sanctuary when their friends are put on lockdown so the Task Force can root out the sympathizers.

An excellent dystopian novel that continues the good work laid down by the author in book 1.

Plenty of peril and thrills as our heroes have to fight for what they believe in
Profile Image for Tracy.
171 reviews3 followers
October 9, 2022
Honestly, I was waiting for this book to come out but forgot about it until I read another book by Raena Rood- when I finished I thought another book by her sounded familiar and then to see the other books available- i quickly added them to my must reads!
Then the opportunity came available to listen to the audio version and I was sneaking every opportunity to listen (this is hard to do when others are home or I'm not traveling alone- wish I could get my husband interested in listening- he'd really like it as well- there is a lot of action packed in).
wow what a great book!

When I couldn't listen I wondered what was happening. So many emotional things and some unexpected. Look forward to reading or listening to more about the characters and seeing how this trilogy ends. Very well narrated! Raena has written another great book!!!

An absolute must read/listen!!!

Scary to think of these events ever being possible... but who knows what the future will hold for sure...

I was given a copy by the author to listen to and voluntarily submit an honest review. You won't be disappointed!!
Profile Image for Avery.
46 reviews1 follower
June 30, 2025
I don’t normally write reviews so bear with me. This might be long, might be ranty, and most likely have some spoilers. You’ve been warned.
With these books being labeled as “Christian,” I had high hopes. The whole reason these people are in hiding from the government is because of their beliefs and persecution, but they really only pray or think about God when it’s convenient to, or they are in desperate need of Him. It is logical to say that being in hiding for so long without Bibles (except one or two) and regular church services is reason for their faith not being very strong. But why, if some of them appear to have little, if any, faith, are they staying with everybody on the run? They could just renounce and live peaceful lives. Makes no sense. But that’s the least of my concerns with these books.
Book 1 didn’t have too many things that seemed pretty wrong, but book 2 had me ready to quit reading several times.
For starters, the romance. It’s so poorly done. Not to mention they are doing things that really aren’t right for not being married. Lots of implying but nothing ever done. I did get nervous a few times and almost stopped reading. “Christian” books shouldn’t cause you to feel uncomfortable to read them (unless it’s about martyrs or missionaries, real circumstances).
Another thing that really bothered me; it’s said a civilian held up a middle finger to the Task Force. Did the author seriously say that in a ChRiStIaN book?! It’s one thing to say a character shouted “profanities” or “curses,” but another to fully describe them.
Overall, I don’t care for any of the characters but two. They all constantly made such questionable choices, some even knowing it was wrong. The main couple don’t even get much character development.
And now, the thing that I hated the most out of everything. The villain wasn’t the kind of villain you like (or dislike) just because they are so well written. He was just flat out annoying. I couldn’t stand him. Every chapter in his POV was torture. And the worst part about his POV… him hearing and talking to a dead guy. And literally calling him his god. Now I know it’s the villain who’s doing this, but come on. Really? It was just weird, out of place, and creepy. It was like a very poor, scary imitation of a Force Ghost from Star Wars. I don’t get WHY the author chose to include all that. It was all so fake and unrealistic.

I will be reading book 3 because I need to know what happens next storywise. I really hope it’s better than book 2.
But if you want really good Christian fiction, go read some Kristina Hall books! And if you want a good dystopian, go read Hunger Games. If you want both, still go read Kristina Hall.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews

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