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Subversive #2
Sanctuary: Subversive Trilogy, Book 2
Six months after their narrow escape from the Task Force, Gemma Alcott and her subversive friends—including her soldier boyfriend, Taylor—believe they’ve found safety at an isolated camp located deep within the Pennsylvania wilderness. Known as the Sanctuary, this hideout for persecuted Christians is supplied by elderly bookstore owner Letty Webb and her network of sympathizers in the nearby town of Winter’s Dam. The camp is beautiful and idyllic, and Gemma falls asleep every night in the protection of Taylor’s arms. But no matter how safe she feels, she cannot break free from the ghosts of her past—including Gavin, the ex-boyfriend whose heart she broke, and Mullen, the redheaded soldier who haunts her nightmares. When the Task Force puts Winter’s Dam on lockdown to root out the sympathizers, a small group from the Sanctuary—headed up by Gemma and Taylor—prepares to fight. They work out a plan to infiltrate the town and rescue Letty and the others. But the rescue attempt goes terribly wrong, setting in motion a devastating series of events which could endanger not only Gemma and her friends, but the Sanctuary itself. Stripped of everything she loves, Gemma must stop hiding and confront the Task Force—and the ghosts that haunt her—once and for all. And she must put her faith in the only Sanctuary that can never be destroyed.
532 pages, Paperback
Published July 25, 2021
138 people are currently reading
245 people want to read
About the author
Raena Rood
10 books117 followersRaena 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
Find out more at:
https://www.raenarood.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
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.
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.
July 7, 2021
Your Salvation is coming...
WOW! JUST WOW!
Review coming soon
WOW! JUST WOW!
Review coming soon
January 24, 2026
I had trouble getting into the second one at first because it didn't grip me right away, but that quickly changed once I kicked myself in gear and forced myself out of my reading slump! I got really upset at one part, though, (but I won't say because it would spoil things) only because it happened so early in the book and I saw it coming and I didn't want it to happen (because my kids turned me into a softy and now I cry at the drop of a hat)... urgh! But it drove the story to where it needed to go, and I loved the ending! Powerful!!
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! 😃
🤯 🤯 🤯
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! 😃
January 17, 2026
I just finished the second book in this trilogy and I am in awe! Very well written, thought-provoking, action packed and inspiring! Solid 5 stars again and I can’t wait to finish the last book in the series! If you loved Hunger Games, Divergent or any other books similar to those- I highly recommend this series! This is a unique Christian take on a country that denies God. You can tell this author has a close walk with Christ, the scripture references, prayer and sermon scenes are so beautifully done! I rarely tear up at books but I have several times watching the main character grow her walk with Christ in dire circumstances. So many of us would give up and Gemma digs her heals in and grows so much as a Christian in the midst of her severe suffering. Her faith and trust in God has changed a ton and I am ready to see her growth in the conclusion.
Amazing work Raena Rood and you definitely have a new fan. I am going to order your new Reverence series as well! ❤️✝️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Amazing work Raena Rood and you definitely have a new fan. I am going to order your new Reverence series as well! ❤️✝️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
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.
July 2, 2024
Yet another great book from Raena Rood, can't wait to start Salvation!
January 9, 2026
My response to book 1 of this series was mediocre but I decided to give book 2 a chance anyway and I’m glad I did. This book hooked me from the start; I could hardly put it down.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
October 4, 2022
I really love this series. I hope the author writes more series.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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.
***** 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.
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
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.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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!
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!
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.
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.
May 30, 2021
Very descriptive word pictures, loved the jokes.
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!
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!
Awesome book! I didn't want to put it down! I had to
see what would happen next! Very thought provoking!
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?
Something like this could/may be happening in America soon. It’s already going on in other countries. What would you do?
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.
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.
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.
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!!!
December 28, 2025
I read it in one day. So good.
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.
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.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews