What a ride! Hoffman has created a distant dystopian world in which exists a horrific and murderous religious order. Young boys are continuously brought into this harsh and closed environment where the darkest forms of sadism are unrestrained. The story centers around a teen by the name of Thomas Cale, who, as a result of witnessing a very ugly event, manages to escape. He finds his way out of the realm of "The Redeemers" and into a city that is, initially so out of his completely restricted experience, that he is continuously astounded. Gradually, Thomas begins to get in touch with the humanity that has for so long, been viciously beaten out of him. The character development of Thomas is absolutely excellent. The author does a wonderful job of peeling back the long-buried layers of human feelings that this young man begins to experience. Other characters are also very well fleshed-out and interesting. There are myriad action scenes excellently described and quite thrilling. Having finished the book, I long for a sequel, or, even better, a trilogy. Very highly recommended.

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