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Before They Were Left Behind #2
The Regime: Evil Advances
The second prequel will continue the story of the rise of the Antichrist and the journey of the other main characters as, unknown to them, time hurtles toward the Rapture. Readers will want every possible soul saved to avoid the seven-year Tribulation, and they will see why characters such as Rayford, Chloe, and Buck fail to believe. Events in Israel will be heating up, and some main characters like Rayford and Buck will be thrust into the thick of the drama.
416 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 26, 2005
136 people are currently reading
3747 people want to read
About the author
Tim LaHaye
780 books2,284 followersTimothy "Tim" F. LaHaye was an American evangelical Christian minister, author, and speaker, best known for the Left Behind series of apocalyptic fiction, which he co-wrote with Jerry B. Jenkins.
He has written over 50 books, both fiction and non-fiction.
He has written over 50 books, both fiction and non-fiction.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 182 reviews
July 28, 2008
I really liked the left behind series, but I did not really like this book. It is a prequel of happenings before they were left behind in the rapture. I read it years after reading the series and I don't think it contributed anything new. I didn't relate to the characters.
July 17, 2018
I loved this prequel. I loved seeing the younger years of Chloe. Seeing her not wanting to get saved is kind of funny, because little does she know she will be a Christian soon. And little does she know she will die for Christ.
I also, liked Buck’s college years. It was so sad when his Mom died though.
Irene’s point of view was also very interesting. You can’t help but feel sad for her when she is trying to get her family to Christ, but they don’t want to.
This really is a five star book. I loved Chloe and Buck’s point of views the most because, they are both my favorite characters.
I also, liked Buck’s college years. It was so sad when his Mom died though.
Irene’s point of view was also very interesting. You can’t help but feel sad for her when she is trying to get her family to Christ, but they don’t want to.
This really is a five star book. I loved Chloe and Buck’s point of views the most because, they are both my favorite characters.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 27, 2018
4 stars!
These don’t hold quite the same place in my heart as the main Left Behind series but I enjoy them just as much and fly through them within a day or two. This one was very political which I always find interesting in books and it had a lot of background and perspective on Buck, who is my favorite character in the series. I also really appreciated the small section of the story that touched on Islam and what a huge deal it is for someone to convert to Christianity over in the Middle East. It was very eye opening.
I found Irene’s struggle with not only her marriage and worrying for her husband’s soul but also for the souls of her children to be the most compelling of all of the perspectives being told and I always look forward to her chapters. It’s very interesting getting a good look at Ray and Chloe especially in these years before the end times of the original series take place; it’s crazy to think about how far these characters come by the end of all of this. Nicolae’s story is as expected being that he is the antichrist, but seeing his rise to power is still very harrowing and honestly scary seeing how easily he gets his way and slips through the ranks to put himself into the perfect position that he needs to be in for the rapture.
I think this is a great addition to the overall Left Behind series and I can’t wait to read the last book of the trilogy.
These don’t hold quite the same place in my heart as the main Left Behind series but I enjoy them just as much and fly through them within a day or two. This one was very political which I always find interesting in books and it had a lot of background and perspective on Buck, who is my favorite character in the series. I also really appreciated the small section of the story that touched on Islam and what a huge deal it is for someone to convert to Christianity over in the Middle East. It was very eye opening.
I found Irene’s struggle with not only her marriage and worrying for her husband’s soul but also for the souls of her children to be the most compelling of all of the perspectives being told and I always look forward to her chapters. It’s very interesting getting a good look at Ray and Chloe especially in these years before the end times of the original series take place; it’s crazy to think about how far these characters come by the end of all of this. Nicolae’s story is as expected being that he is the antichrist, but seeing his rise to power is still very harrowing and honestly scary seeing how easily he gets his way and slips through the ranks to put himself into the perfect position that he needs to be in for the rapture.
I think this is a great addition to the overall Left Behind series and I can’t wait to read the last book of the trilogy.
June 29, 2024
I’m back baby. Hate reading once again. This is a prequel to one of the worst series of all time, but still finds a way to blow chunks even hard met than the original. All of the characters talk in an identical cadence. Also, can someone please explain foreshadowing to Jerry and Tim this one was especially painful to read.
At the core of this book there is the classic "woo the not Christian enough spouse by trying to seduce them into loving Christ." In addition to the blatant emotional manipulation the Christian lady we are supposed to emulate and sympathize with forcibly converts Rayford's demesne stricken elderly parents to "real christianity."
"Hattie Durham had been a teenage when she had become a Pancon flight attendant and any heterosexual man with eyes agreed she was the total package." Thank you once again Tim and Jerry for exposing your sexual attraction to teenagers. Totally super chill.
At the core of this book there is the classic "woo the not Christian enough spouse by trying to seduce them into loving Christ." In addition to the blatant emotional manipulation the Christian lady we are supposed to emulate and sympathize with forcibly converts Rayford's demesne stricken elderly parents to "real christianity."
"Hattie Durham had been a teenage when she had become a Pancon flight attendant and any heterosexual man with eyes agreed she was the total package." Thank you once again Tim and Jerry for exposing your sexual attraction to teenagers. Totally super chill.
February 20, 2023
3.5 stars rounded to 4
The 2nd prequel to the Left Behind series takes up where the 1st prequel ends.....and mid-book there's a few time jumps. I didn't enjoy this one quite as much as Prequel 1 but some good things happen with spiritual growth for some of the characters which I loved seeing.
I won't be reading Prequel 3 until I finish the Left Behind series because knowing a few things about it, I feel like it may "spoil" the series for me even though the series will be a re-read for me (from many many years ago).
The 2nd prequel to the Left Behind series takes up where the 1st prequel ends.....and mid-book there's a few time jumps. I didn't enjoy this one quite as much as Prequel 1 but some good things happen with spiritual growth for some of the characters which I loved seeing.
I won't be reading Prequel 3 until I finish the Left Behind series because knowing a few things about it, I feel like it may "spoil" the series for me even though the series will be a re-read for me (from many many years ago).
January 29, 2020
I don't think it contributed anything new. this was just... *sighs* i don't think i'll be finishing this prequel series.
May 10, 2025
3.5 Stars
October 10, 2025
It was a pretty great book and better than I thought it would be
December 30, 2019
Very good second book in the series. LaHaye's take on the events of the rapture and end times is really good so far. The book is not action packed, but its an easy read and mostly engaging.
July 22, 2020
Very excellent series. Starting the rapture which has brought me to the start Left Behind!
March 15, 2013
I just finished reading this book, and it was really interesting. There are three books in this series; The Rising,The Regime,and one other one. This book is about the characters in the Left Behind Series. These books focus on them and their lives before they were left behind. This book specifically talks about the Antichrist rising up through the Romanian government and him developing relationships with other heads of states, paving his path to total rule. I found this series, so far, very interesting because the authors have developed the characters even more and have given them a past, and have clearly shown the reader every aspect of their lives. I can't wait to read the next book in the series and get caught up to the beginning of the Left Behind Series. After I get this next book, I will move on to the series about after the Left Behind Series.
Again in this book I can connect to it because I love talking about end times and whatnot. I love this whole idea of this book series.
Again in this book I can connect to it because I love talking about end times and whatnot. I love this whole idea of this book series.
February 14, 2011
Been trying to finish this one for a WHILE now - just because I read the original 12 on a dare - but it's just so HORRIBLE I'm having trouble getting through more than 3 pages at a time
Update: After a full year of torturing myself with this book by reading a few pages every week or so when I could stomach it, I finally finished. My recommendation: Stay away from this book... FAR, FAR away... I will not be reading another prequel or the added sequel... I'd sooner use them as a fire-starter.
Update: After a full year of torturing myself with this book by reading a few pages every week or so when I could stomach it, I finally finished. My recommendation: Stay away from this book... FAR, FAR away... I will not be reading another prequel or the added sequel... I'd sooner use them as a fire-starter.
October 7, 2017
Excellent
The Left Behind books are an excellent story of something that hadn't happened yet. I recommend everyone read these books.
The Left Behind books are an excellent story of something that hadn't happened yet. I recommend everyone read these books.
April 8, 2021
For ten years, Tyndale House Publishers rode the Left Behind train to literary and financial success, but all that seemed like it was coming to an end with the twelfth and final novel in the series. Glorious Appearing spent 22 weeks on the NYT bestseller’s list, selling millions. Having almost quite literally reached the end of time (in a sense), the series couldn’t go much further forward (eventually doing so in a sequel called Kingdom Come), Jerry Jenkins and Tim LaHaye decided to go back to the beginning—before the beginning—and piece together the events that led to the rise of Nicolae Carpathia as Antichrist.
There’s a lot that could be said about the series as a whole and its assumption of a dispensational, premillennial, pretribulational eschatology. There’s even more than could be said about the cultural zeitgeist that led to the success of these novels from a sales standpoint. And there’s even more that could be said about their affect on Christian evangelical culture over the past generation. But for now, let’s just stick to the realm of fiction to see if these stories—as fiction—are any good.
The Regime is the second in a prequel trilogy called Before They Were Left Behind, primarily chronicling the rise of Nicolae Carpathia to power but also including tidbits about the pre-Rapture lives of some of the main characters in the main series. After a painful start with The Rising, The Regime covers an eight-year time period from nine years before to one year before the Rapture. Of the three prequel novels, it was this one that held my attention the most. First off, all the characters were adults. There was no shifting into a ten-year-old’s perspective like in The Rising. Second, the supernatural elements (which are not well-portrayed) are a bit less pronounced here. Third, there’s less implicit cultural commentary and propaganda. And fourth, the story moves along at a fast pace and shows Carpathia’s cutthroat methods as a businessman.
Like the first installment, Carpathia’s storyline is primary. Fresh off his wilderness temptation, he feels revitalized and ready to put the pieces in place for his ascendence. Jenkins makes Carpathia a compelling character. Although he’s been financed by Jonathan Stonagal, Carpathia begins to distance himself, trying to get out from under Stonagal’s thumb. He works through lies, deceit, and manipulation. In many ways, this becomes a House of Cards¬ like political thriller as you see a charming, charismatic, and corrupt rich businessman work his way into power.
The B storyline with Ray is still a bit much, though it plays out the Ray and Hattie relationship very well. My number one complaint is that the Christians in this book are obnoxious. They’re obnoxious and they know it. They fret about whether or not they are turning off those they’re trying to convert (they are). There’s not a single conversation about Jesus or salvation in this book that feels genuine and between people who love one another. There are no substantive discussions of faith, of reasons for doubt, or anything. The conversations about Jesus come across as inauthentic—but, frankly, that’s become par for the course in American evangelicalism.
We also get the backstory of Smitty—Abdullah Ababneh—who doesn’t even appear in the main series until Apollyon. The sole reason for his inclusion appears to be to talk about Islam, which the book then doesn’t really do. The connection to Ray and their backstory is interesting, but I found him to be an odd inclusion. Buck Williams also makes his first appearance and his storyline is interesting in its own right. Like The Rising, these are kind of distractions to the main story, but the goal of the prequels was never to tell its own story, but add onto the established story, and in that it does its job.
Maybe it’s just because I found The Rising to be so bad that I actually enjoyed this novel, but The Regime was an example of what all the prequels could and should have been.
There’s a lot that could be said about the series as a whole and its assumption of a dispensational, premillennial, pretribulational eschatology. There’s even more than could be said about the cultural zeitgeist that led to the success of these novels from a sales standpoint. And there’s even more that could be said about their affect on Christian evangelical culture over the past generation. But for now, let’s just stick to the realm of fiction to see if these stories—as fiction—are any good.
The Regime is the second in a prequel trilogy called Before They Were Left Behind, primarily chronicling the rise of Nicolae Carpathia to power but also including tidbits about the pre-Rapture lives of some of the main characters in the main series. After a painful start with The Rising, The Regime covers an eight-year time period from nine years before to one year before the Rapture. Of the three prequel novels, it was this one that held my attention the most. First off, all the characters were adults. There was no shifting into a ten-year-old’s perspective like in The Rising. Second, the supernatural elements (which are not well-portrayed) are a bit less pronounced here. Third, there’s less implicit cultural commentary and propaganda. And fourth, the story moves along at a fast pace and shows Carpathia’s cutthroat methods as a businessman.
Like the first installment, Carpathia’s storyline is primary. Fresh off his wilderness temptation, he feels revitalized and ready to put the pieces in place for his ascendence. Jenkins makes Carpathia a compelling character. Although he’s been financed by Jonathan Stonagal, Carpathia begins to distance himself, trying to get out from under Stonagal’s thumb. He works through lies, deceit, and manipulation. In many ways, this becomes a House of Cards¬ like political thriller as you see a charming, charismatic, and corrupt rich businessman work his way into power.
The B storyline with Ray is still a bit much, though it plays out the Ray and Hattie relationship very well. My number one complaint is that the Christians in this book are obnoxious. They’re obnoxious and they know it. They fret about whether or not they are turning off those they’re trying to convert (they are). There’s not a single conversation about Jesus or salvation in this book that feels genuine and between people who love one another. There are no substantive discussions of faith, of reasons for doubt, or anything. The conversations about Jesus come across as inauthentic—but, frankly, that’s become par for the course in American evangelicalism.
We also get the backstory of Smitty—Abdullah Ababneh—who doesn’t even appear in the main series until Apollyon. The sole reason for his inclusion appears to be to talk about Islam, which the book then doesn’t really do. The connection to Ray and their backstory is interesting, but I found him to be an odd inclusion. Buck Williams also makes his first appearance and his storyline is interesting in its own right. Like The Rising, these are kind of distractions to the main story, but the goal of the prequels was never to tell its own story, but add onto the established story, and in that it does its job.
Maybe it’s just because I found The Rising to be so bad that I actually enjoyed this novel, but The Regime was an example of what all the prequels could and should have been.
November 5, 2019
✩✩✩
3 STAR REVIEW
This is the sequel to ‘The Rising’ and the story picks up where Nicolae Carpathia was in the desert and now returning home. The story continues with Nicolae reaching success and with each step into politics, he gains greater ground. No doubt, Nicolae will remove any stumbling blocks along the road to success. His character evolves and with the help of Leon Fortunato he chips away at anything that might damage his image. There are some twists that were unexpected, but true to Nicolae’s nature, we wouldn’t have it any different.
Rayford Steele feels he has all his days with his wife Irene and her beliefs. He gets frustrated and their marriage takes a toll under the heavy burden. Though Irene means well and just wants her husband and children to be saved, Rayford and Chloe don’t realize the importance. Irene still has a chance with Raymie, their youngest, while he is still young and not influenced by the world, she can help him get Jesus in his heart, as she says.
A few new characters are introduced, and I specifically like Cameron (Buck) Williams. He has a determination that fuels his passion and whatever he focuses on; he makes it happen. Cameron takes a dream and realizes it. He had his fair share of pain, but it’s as if he used it as fuel to the ever-growing fire of success in his career as a journalist.
The reader must discover each of the new characters on their own, but Buck is worth mentioning.
I like the way the characters are introduced and especially at the end where two characters’ stories intertwine. I’m excited to see what happens in the next book with these two characters when they, if they, meet.
This book helps people who are uncertain to believe in Christ. We can use Irene and Rayford’s situation as an example, and even Abdullah Ababneh and his wife Yasmine (yes, these are new characters I didn’t want to mention but their situation is a great example.) There are underlying issues that each individual struggles with every day and this book, though its fiction, can be a stepping stone to help guide yourself, your loved ones, your friends to have a relationship with Christ. This book takes the reader on a journey through many characters with different beliefs and ties them up to the One that connects us all, God.
3 STAR REVIEW
This is the sequel to ‘The Rising’ and the story picks up where Nicolae Carpathia was in the desert and now returning home. The story continues with Nicolae reaching success and with each step into politics, he gains greater ground. No doubt, Nicolae will remove any stumbling blocks along the road to success. His character evolves and with the help of Leon Fortunato he chips away at anything that might damage his image. There are some twists that were unexpected, but true to Nicolae’s nature, we wouldn’t have it any different.
Rayford Steele feels he has all his days with his wife Irene and her beliefs. He gets frustrated and their marriage takes a toll under the heavy burden. Though Irene means well and just wants her husband and children to be saved, Rayford and Chloe don’t realize the importance. Irene still has a chance with Raymie, their youngest, while he is still young and not influenced by the world, she can help him get Jesus in his heart, as she says.
A few new characters are introduced, and I specifically like Cameron (Buck) Williams. He has a determination that fuels his passion and whatever he focuses on; he makes it happen. Cameron takes a dream and realizes it. He had his fair share of pain, but it’s as if he used it as fuel to the ever-growing fire of success in his career as a journalist.
The reader must discover each of the new characters on their own, but Buck is worth mentioning.
I like the way the characters are introduced and especially at the end where two characters’ stories intertwine. I’m excited to see what happens in the next book with these two characters when they, if they, meet.
This book helps people who are uncertain to believe in Christ. We can use Irene and Rayford’s situation as an example, and even Abdullah Ababneh and his wife Yasmine (yes, these are new characters I didn’t want to mention but their situation is a great example.) There are underlying issues that each individual struggles with every day and this book, though its fiction, can be a stepping stone to help guide yourself, your loved ones, your friends to have a relationship with Christ. This book takes the reader on a journey through many characters with different beliefs and ties them up to the One that connects us all, God.
August 3, 2019
**First part taken from my review of The Rising**These speculative end times books were a Big Deal when I was in middle school/high school and I was looking for some easy reading for summer.
This one is one that came out after the main series, a prequel of sorts. It's the same kind of pulp fiction with a real evangelical slant. I'm an Episcopalian, so the description of the only "good" churches being Baptist/Evangelical kind of grates but it's still a fun read and fun to see how the Antichrist in the series came to be.**
This book moves more into Carpathia's political and business ventures, showing how ruthless he is in seizing power and introduces characters who become important in the main series (Leon Fortunato, Viv Ivins, Abdullah Smith, Hattie Durham, Global Weekly staff)
It also shows some of the turmoil in Rayford and Irene's marriage over religion and their son's eventual conversion as a Christian. Coming from an Episcopalian background, we don't do Beliver's Baptism, per se, but confirmation is certainly a time we reflect upon the nature of our relationship with God and Christ. This series definitely has an evangelical slant but the weaving of scripture with dramatization of End Times events is a nice pulp thriller.
This one is one that came out after the main series, a prequel of sorts. It's the same kind of pulp fiction with a real evangelical slant. I'm an Episcopalian, so the description of the only "good" churches being Baptist/Evangelical kind of grates but it's still a fun read and fun to see how the Antichrist in the series came to be.**
This book moves more into Carpathia's political and business ventures, showing how ruthless he is in seizing power and introduces characters who become important in the main series (Leon Fortunato, Viv Ivins, Abdullah Smith, Hattie Durham, Global Weekly staff)
It also shows some of the turmoil in Rayford and Irene's marriage over religion and their son's eventual conversion as a Christian. Coming from an Episcopalian background, we don't do Beliver's Baptism, per se, but confirmation is certainly a time we reflect upon the nature of our relationship with God and Christ. This series definitely has an evangelical slant but the weaving of scripture with dramatization of End Times events is a nice pulp thriller.
August 8, 2020
Extremely boring. The parts with Nicolae made me yawn.
I suppose this is to be expected in evangelical fiction, but the disrespect toward non-Christian religions is horrible. The God of Islam is no more wrathful than the God of Christianity, and no, Muslims don't generally view their wives as possessions. Sure, there are extremists, but that's true of Christianity.
It also annoys me that the authors will capitalize He and Him and God when referring to God in Christianity, but God in any other religion is written "god." It's so insulting. Even if you don't agree with another person's religion, you could at least accept that there are devout believers in these religions and treat those believers with respect.
Of course, both Irene and Rayford are jerks to each other, but I really sympathized with Chloe here. I, too, have trouble believing in anything I can't see, touch, or feel. It doesn't mean I hate Jesus or anything. I like how Irene's supposed to be in the right every time, but she uses emotionally manipulative behaviors to try and get her daughter to go to church. And given how she interacts with everyone else, I'm honestly surprised that anyone can even stand being around her.
One more book and hopefully I'll be done with this garbage.
I suppose this is to be expected in evangelical fiction, but the disrespect toward non-Christian religions is horrible. The God of Islam is no more wrathful than the God of Christianity, and no, Muslims don't generally view their wives as possessions. Sure, there are extremists, but that's true of Christianity.
It also annoys me that the authors will capitalize He and Him and God when referring to God in Christianity, but God in any other religion is written "god." It's so insulting. Even if you don't agree with another person's religion, you could at least accept that there are devout believers in these religions and treat those believers with respect.
Of course, both Irene and Rayford are jerks to each other, but I really sympathized with Chloe here. I, too, have trouble believing in anything I can't see, touch, or feel. It doesn't mean I hate Jesus or anything. I like how Irene's supposed to be in the right every time, but she uses emotionally manipulative behaviors to try and get her daughter to go to church. And given how she interacts with everyone else, I'm honestly surprised that anyone can even stand being around her.
One more book and hopefully I'll be done with this garbage.
June 14, 2025
Not having read all the books, because there so many. I like this book it fill in some of the blanks I think it worth your time.
Summary spoiler below:
After his horrifying trials in the wasteland, Nicolae Carpathia's influence grows in business and politics. However anyone who gets in his way tends to disappear, permanently. He hires kingmaker and soon-to-be False Prophet Leon Fortunato as a deputy and consultant. Over the course of a few years, Carpathia rises to power within the Romanian government, manipulating people and events for his own personal gain and often resorting to murder and blackmailing to achieve his goals. He often calls upon the influence of his "spirit guide" (later revealed to be Satan himself) for advice. Jonathan Stonagal begins to grow regretful with his involvement with Carpathia, fearing the young Antichrist is already out of his control.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Reg...
Captain Rayford Steele
Irene Steele
Chloe Steele
Raymie Steele
Cameron "Buck" Williams
Hattie Durham
Nicolae Carpathia
Leon Fortunato
Viviana Ivinisova
Reiche Planchette
Jonathan Stonagal
Dirk Burton
Jeff Williams
Mr. and Mrs. Steele, both die in this book
Joshua Todd-Cothran
Dizzy Rowland
Abdullah Ababneh aka Abdullah Smith
Chaim Rosenzweig
Bruce Barnes
Pastor Vernon Billings
Steve Plank
Stanton Bailey
Gerald Fitzhugh, the President of the United States
Wilma Fitzhugh, the First Lady of the United States
Certainly! Here's a **combined** breakdown of *The Regime: Evil Advances*, weaving the major characters, timeline, and events into a structured narrative.
---
### **The Regime: Evil Advances – Complete Overview**
Set in the years leading up to the Rapture, *The Regime* follows the rise of **Nicolae Carpathia**, a brilliant but sinister leader whose ambition and ruthlessness make way for his eventual rule as the Antichrist. Simultaneously, characters like **Rayford Steele**, **Buck Williams**, and **Irene Steele** navigate their own lives, unaware of the coming apocalypse.
#### **Major Characters (Including Animals)**
- **Nicolae Carpathia** – Charismatic, intelligent, and dangerous, he manipulates his way to power.
- **Leon Fortunato** – Nicolae’s loyal aide, ensuring his enemies are eliminated.
- **Rayford Steele** – A skilled airline pilot, emotionally distant from his wife Irene.
- **Irene Steele** – A devoted Christian, sensing something monumental on the horizon.
- **Cameron “Buck” Williams** – A rising journalist investigating global events.
- **Chaim Rosenzweig** – A scientist whose groundbreaking formula draws Nicolae’s attention.
- **Viv Ivins** – A shadowy figure influencing Nicolae’s decisions.
- **Abdullah Ababneh** – A Jordanian Air Force officer who will later play a major role.
- **Animals** – Though not central, natural disasters and global unrest impact wildlife.
---
### **Beginning: A World on the Brink**
The novel opens years before the Rapture, painting a world subtly shifting toward chaos. Nicolae Carpathia, through cunning tactics and manipulation, builds his business empire and begins securing influential allies. Those who oppose him mysteriously suffer, while figures like **Leon Fortunato** and **Viv Ivins** work behind the scenes to strengthen his grip on power.
Meanwhile, **Rayford Steele**, a well-respected pilot, is consumed by his career, growing distant from his wife **Irene**, whose faith deepens. **Buck Williams**, an ambitious journalist, is drawn into international intrigue as he uncovers shocking truths about political dealings.
---
### **Time Outline: The Regime’s Rise**
The story spans **nine years to fourteen months before the Rapture**, focusing on Nicolae’s ascent. Though events are not described hour-by-hour, we can reconstruct an approximate timeline:
#### **Year 1 - Nicolae Begins His Path to Power**
- Nicolae expands his empire, eliminating those in his way.
- Buck starts investigating global economic shifts.
- Rayford and Irene's relationship grows strained.
#### **Year 2 - Key Alliances Form**
- Nicolae surrounds himself with powerful figures, including Leon.
- Chaim Rosenzweig develops a formula with global significance.
- Buck’s journalism puts him close to dangerous truths.
#### **Year 3 - International Manipulation**
- Nicolae orchestrates crises that weaken governments.
- Buck uncovers political secrets, placing himself at risk.
- Irene grows increasingly convinced that world events signal something bigger.
#### **Final Year - The Shadow Before the Storm**
- Nicolae rises as a dominant political figure.
- Irene’s faith strengthens while Rayford remains skeptical.
- Buck receives classified intelligence about impending disaster.
- The world nears its breaking point.
---
### **Key Day: Hour-by-Hour Breakdown**
One pivotal day in Nicolae’s rise might unfold like this:
- **6:00 AM** – Nicolae receives intel on obstacles to his power.
- **8:00 AM** – Leon Fortunato ensures threats are neutralized.
- **12:00 PM** – Global leaders unknowingly aid Nicolae’s plans.
- **3:00 PM** – Buck begins writing an exposé that could expose hidden forces.
- **6:00 PM** – Rayford prepares for an overseas flight, unaware of the mounting crisis.
- **9:00 PM** – Irene prays fervently, sensing something approaching.
- **11:59 PM** – The world moves forward, oblivious to its final moments before the Rapture.
---
### **Ending: A Prelude to Catastrophe**
As the novel concludes, Nicolae has secured his influence. His dominance is nearly unquestioned, and the world is on the edge of an irreversible transformation. While Rayford, Irene, Buck, and others continue their lives, **everything is about to change**.
This sets the stage for *The Rapture*—the next book—where supernatural events plunge the world into chaos.
---
This breakdown merges all details into a complete narrative. Would you like a character-focused timeline next?
Summary spoiler below:
After his horrifying trials in the wasteland, Nicolae Carpathia's influence grows in business and politics. However anyone who gets in his way tends to disappear, permanently. He hires kingmaker and soon-to-be False Prophet Leon Fortunato as a deputy and consultant. Over the course of a few years, Carpathia rises to power within the Romanian government, manipulating people and events for his own personal gain and often resorting to murder and blackmailing to achieve his goals. He often calls upon the influence of his "spirit guide" (later revealed to be Satan himself) for advice. Jonathan Stonagal begins to grow regretful with his involvement with Carpathia, fearing the young Antichrist is already out of his control.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Reg...
Captain Rayford Steele
Irene Steele
Chloe Steele
Raymie Steele
Cameron "Buck" Williams
Hattie Durham
Nicolae Carpathia
Leon Fortunato
Viviana Ivinisova
Reiche Planchette
Jonathan Stonagal
Dirk Burton
Jeff Williams
Mr. and Mrs. Steele, both die in this book
Joshua Todd-Cothran
Dizzy Rowland
Abdullah Ababneh aka Abdullah Smith
Chaim Rosenzweig
Bruce Barnes
Pastor Vernon Billings
Steve Plank
Stanton Bailey
Gerald Fitzhugh, the President of the United States
Wilma Fitzhugh, the First Lady of the United States
Certainly! Here's a **combined** breakdown of *The Regime: Evil Advances*, weaving the major characters, timeline, and events into a structured narrative.
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### **The Regime: Evil Advances – Complete Overview**
Set in the years leading up to the Rapture, *The Regime* follows the rise of **Nicolae Carpathia**, a brilliant but sinister leader whose ambition and ruthlessness make way for his eventual rule as the Antichrist. Simultaneously, characters like **Rayford Steele**, **Buck Williams**, and **Irene Steele** navigate their own lives, unaware of the coming apocalypse.
#### **Major Characters (Including Animals)**
- **Nicolae Carpathia** – Charismatic, intelligent, and dangerous, he manipulates his way to power.
- **Leon Fortunato** – Nicolae’s loyal aide, ensuring his enemies are eliminated.
- **Rayford Steele** – A skilled airline pilot, emotionally distant from his wife Irene.
- **Irene Steele** – A devoted Christian, sensing something monumental on the horizon.
- **Cameron “Buck” Williams** – A rising journalist investigating global events.
- **Chaim Rosenzweig** – A scientist whose groundbreaking formula draws Nicolae’s attention.
- **Viv Ivins** – A shadowy figure influencing Nicolae’s decisions.
- **Abdullah Ababneh** – A Jordanian Air Force officer who will later play a major role.
- **Animals** – Though not central, natural disasters and global unrest impact wildlife.
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### **Beginning: A World on the Brink**
The novel opens years before the Rapture, painting a world subtly shifting toward chaos. Nicolae Carpathia, through cunning tactics and manipulation, builds his business empire and begins securing influential allies. Those who oppose him mysteriously suffer, while figures like **Leon Fortunato** and **Viv Ivins** work behind the scenes to strengthen his grip on power.
Meanwhile, **Rayford Steele**, a well-respected pilot, is consumed by his career, growing distant from his wife **Irene**, whose faith deepens. **Buck Williams**, an ambitious journalist, is drawn into international intrigue as he uncovers shocking truths about political dealings.
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### **Time Outline: The Regime’s Rise**
The story spans **nine years to fourteen months before the Rapture**, focusing on Nicolae’s ascent. Though events are not described hour-by-hour, we can reconstruct an approximate timeline:
#### **Year 1 - Nicolae Begins His Path to Power**
- Nicolae expands his empire, eliminating those in his way.
- Buck starts investigating global economic shifts.
- Rayford and Irene's relationship grows strained.
#### **Year 2 - Key Alliances Form**
- Nicolae surrounds himself with powerful figures, including Leon.
- Chaim Rosenzweig develops a formula with global significance.
- Buck’s journalism puts him close to dangerous truths.
#### **Year 3 - International Manipulation**
- Nicolae orchestrates crises that weaken governments.
- Buck uncovers political secrets, placing himself at risk.
- Irene grows increasingly convinced that world events signal something bigger.
#### **Final Year - The Shadow Before the Storm**
- Nicolae rises as a dominant political figure.
- Irene’s faith strengthens while Rayford remains skeptical.
- Buck receives classified intelligence about impending disaster.
- The world nears its breaking point.
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### **Key Day: Hour-by-Hour Breakdown**
One pivotal day in Nicolae’s rise might unfold like this:
- **6:00 AM** – Nicolae receives intel on obstacles to his power.
- **8:00 AM** – Leon Fortunato ensures threats are neutralized.
- **12:00 PM** – Global leaders unknowingly aid Nicolae’s plans.
- **3:00 PM** – Buck begins writing an exposé that could expose hidden forces.
- **6:00 PM** – Rayford prepares for an overseas flight, unaware of the mounting crisis.
- **9:00 PM** – Irene prays fervently, sensing something approaching.
- **11:59 PM** – The world moves forward, oblivious to its final moments before the Rapture.
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### **Ending: A Prelude to Catastrophe**
As the novel concludes, Nicolae has secured his influence. His dominance is nearly unquestioned, and the world is on the edge of an irreversible transformation. While Rayford, Irene, Buck, and others continue their lives, **everything is about to change**.
This sets the stage for *The Rapture*—the next book—where supernatural events plunge the world into chaos.
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This breakdown merges all details into a complete narrative. Would you like a character-focused timeline next?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 25, 2023
This book was good as in I’d probably read it again unlike the first one in this series (the rising) in which the main points you will remember without having to go through it all again. I really liked the Left Behind series but I think I only just “liked” this series.
What I liked about it was seeing the characters before they were thrown into the turmoil of the end of the world. What I didn’t like was their portrayal. Rayford was kind of a jerk, Irene’s portrayal showed her more as driving her family away from God even if she had good intentions.
Chloe was a typical teenager although like most writers they gave her too many adult nuances when she was too young to have them (why do writers always credit children with the wisdom of adults and have them speak like no child ever )
I guess the point was to show the characters as flawed humans but would it have killed them to throw some good points in as well.
Hands down better than the first one but not as good as the series.
Read it as background material.
What I liked about it was seeing the characters before they were thrown into the turmoil of the end of the world. What I didn’t like was their portrayal. Rayford was kind of a jerk, Irene’s portrayal showed her more as driving her family away from God even if she had good intentions.
Chloe was a typical teenager although like most writers they gave her too many adult nuances when she was too young to have them (why do writers always credit children with the wisdom of adults and have them speak like no child ever )
I guess the point was to show the characters as flawed humans but would it have killed them to throw some good points in as well.
Hands down better than the first one but not as good as the series.
Read it as background material.
March 20, 2018
We're introduced to Leon Fortunato, Cameron "Buck" Williams and Abdullah "Smitty" Ababneh, all who will, of course, play pivotal roles in the Left Behind Series. Nicolaes rise to fame is helped by Leon Fortunatos ability to manipulate and work behind the scenes. He'll later become Carpathias biggest lackey. The real deal of the book and the entire series, of course, is Jesus and if you don't have Jesus in your heart then you're a sinner and best get ready to go to Hell. This book wasn't as interesting as the first because though we see Nicolae and his rise to power, we're still constantly badgered and beaten with the message that if we don't have Jesus in our hearts then we're going to Hell. it gets old, as it did in the Left Behind series. But I'll see it to the end at least. I am interested to see how they handle the actual Rapture. I see it either being really good or really pushy. I guess I'll find out.
May 1, 2019
There is a problem with writing a prequel trilogy after writing the novels the prequel is for because one needs to have characters that will develop into the characters that are in the "original" story. This novel spends a lot of time going back and forth with the issues between Rayford and Irene, Cameron's education and job, and Nicolae's easy rise. However, the characters are flat. The pace is slow - until near the end when suddenly Chloe is away at college and things are set up for the first novel in the original series (Left Behind). In fact, there is a bit of an overlap between events at the end of this SECOND book in the prequel trilogy and the FIRST book in the original series and there is still another novel in the prequels to read before the original Left Behind novel. One would think the authors would remember they had already written this in the beginning of the Left Behind novel and do a better job of linking and not redoing.
February 15, 2021
I couldn't put it down. Loved the deeper character development of both Rayford and Nicolae. In this 2nd book in the series, Rayford is less heroic and more of his faults are exposed. He's not as easy to root for as he was in the first book in the series.
Nicolae learns to become more manipulative, and yet he is portrayed as still developing into the sinister character he will become. He seemed more complete at the end of "The Rising" but in this second book, the reader sees that Nicolae actually still needs to grow into his later role.
Other major characters that did not appear in The Rising, like Buck Williams, Chaim Rosenzweig, and Hattie Durham, are introduced in this book, and their stories begin to develop.
I look forward to the 3rd book in the series, "The Rapture", to see how these prequels eventually tie into the original book (now 4th in the series), "Left Behind."
Nicolae learns to become more manipulative, and yet he is portrayed as still developing into the sinister character he will become. He seemed more complete at the end of "The Rising" but in this second book, the reader sees that Nicolae actually still needs to grow into his later role.
Other major characters that did not appear in The Rising, like Buck Williams, Chaim Rosenzweig, and Hattie Durham, are introduced in this book, and their stories begin to develop.
I look forward to the 3rd book in the series, "The Rapture", to see how these prequels eventually tie into the original book (now 4th in the series), "Left Behind."
June 11, 2021
I enjoyed this second book in the prequel series for the most part, but I found it a bit dragging to read since it served mostly to tie up loose ends of things those that read the main Left Behind series first already know. I will say that the authors clearly put a lot of thought into every detail they mentioned of the characters’ lives in the main series, because it all ties together one way or another. it’s hard to like any of the main characters after reading these prequel books, but the traits they possess all align with the reality of how people are that are not Christians or do not put God first in their lives. I wanted to read the Left Behind series for a direct, Scripture based interpretation of how the end times could be, but the prequel books don’t have as much to do with that aspect of the series, so I am anxious just to finish these books up more than anything now.
December 13, 2023
This book is part of the prequel trilogy to the Left Behind series. The trilogy focuses on Nicolae’s life and rise to power prior to the events in Left Behind. To be very honest, I think the content of this trilogy should have been condensed into one book. It’s very repetitive and there was really nothing in this book that added to the content of the first book.
While all of the books in the Left Behind series are fictionalized stories, they are based on Biblical content. Contrary to that, this prequel is entirely imagined and does not point to any specific Biblical content. I don’t really like that because I think it’s misleading for anyone who wouldn’t know better. The Bible doesn’t say anything about the antichrist’s childhood or parentage for example.
I wasn’t a fan of this book. It’s okay but is not one I would recommend.
While all of the books in the Left Behind series are fictionalized stories, they are based on Biblical content. Contrary to that, this prequel is entirely imagined and does not point to any specific Biblical content. I don’t really like that because I think it’s misleading for anyone who wouldn’t know better. The Bible doesn’t say anything about the antichrist’s childhood or parentage for example.
I wasn’t a fan of this book. It’s okay but is not one I would recommend.
June 16, 2019
The antichrist grows from an awful, spoiled, dangerous kid into a ruthless, self-centered millionaire businessman and politician. Well, that makes perfect sense and this contributes to the credibility of the Left Behind series. Biblical scholar Tim LaHaye and Christian fiction writer Jerry B. Jenkins continue with this second prequel book that gives us a very plausible glimpse of the world stage before the cataclysmic event of 'the vanishings'. The audiobook narrated by the very wonderful Richard Ferrone (Recorded Books, Inc.) shows us the current lives of Rayford, Chiam, and Cameron 'Buck' as the world hurtles onward to the inevitable. For a biblical background upon which this series is based, consider reading some of Tim LaHaye's non-fiction works.
November 21, 2024
This book was much more enjoyable than the previous one. While it followed the same formula, the Rayford plot clicked with me more, primarily because of Irene's scenes, and I thought the Buck scenes added a lot. The Abdullah scenes surprised me as he wasn't near to the level as Rayford and Buck in the core series, but he was likable, and it was a nice surprise.
But as with the first book, it was the Carpathia-centric scenes that stood out most. I have one more book to go, but thus far, I can't help but feel this should have been a single, Nicolae focused prequel. A simple Irene focused novel could have worked as well. But we'll see if all that holds true following the final book of the trilogy.
But as with the first book, it was the Carpathia-centric scenes that stood out most. I have one more book to go, but thus far, I can't help but feel this should have been a single, Nicolae focused prequel. A simple Irene focused novel could have worked as well. But we'll see if all that holds true following the final book of the trilogy.
September 9, 2020
If fundamentalist, anti-Catholic, bible thumping Christianity is what you are looking for, here it is. This is itself is not a negative for me, because I knew what I was getting into when I picked up the book. However, the constant bludgeoning on the point, Irene is a saint because she is saved and bible-fearing. Reymond is egotistical and combative because he doesn't want to go to a bible-teaching, god-fearing church. The clubbing of this point is what turned me off, the bad writing just made it worse...still, I will finish the series. Hopefully the last book can make up for where this one left the series.
June 8, 2024
I'm not sure if this book is one of a collaborative team is hitting their stride or if the content is just that good, but Tim LaHaye and Jerry B. Jenkins' The Regime: Evil Advances (Before they Were Left Behind, #2) kept me listening as the lives of three main characters (Rayford Steele, Nicholas Carpathia and Buck Williams) continue to emerge toward the Rapture. In this particular novel Rayford deals with his midlife crisis and his wife's instance of attending church, Buck's struggles first as a student, a grieving son and a junior journalist and Nicholas' demands to rise in power faster than his spiritual guide allows. All in all a true fascinating read.
November 9, 2019
Book two of the “Before They Were Left Behind”. We learn more of the two main characters Rayford Steele & Nicolae Carpathia. An introduction to the next two main characters, Cameron Williams and Abdullah Ababneth. Each character has internal conflict. From the outside, I can figure out how to fix there issues, but the characters have there own ideas.
I thought the book was moving remarkably slow until I reached the last ten percent of the book. I begin to see how the main characters are beginning to interact. The book ends with a great cliff hanger.
I thought the book was moving remarkably slow until I reached the last ten percent of the book. I begin to see how the main characters are beginning to interact. The book ends with a great cliff hanger.
March 27, 2021
The only reason I rated this 4, rather than 5, is because it was just a tad less exciting than the previous The Rising. However, it was still a page turner and I read it in four days. It introduces another player, who I suspect will be a good guy. Cameron Williams, a talented journalist, is developed into who I believe will be a major character. Also, Rayford's daughter, is portrayed as a selfish teenager, in fact, more selfish than most. I'm expecting to see more of this brat. I read this book faster than its predecessor.
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