Review: A worthwhile read
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 03 27, 2013
"Sherdan's Prophecy" by Jess Mountifield tells the story of Dr. Sherdan Harper and his scientifically orientated group/ community/ cult that have a vision for a better future; to achieve this they seek Independence from the UK. The highly religious Anya is sent by her church to find out about Sherdan's prophecy, not realising that she is an actual part of the prophecy. Sherdan keeps Anya prisoner but treats her humanely with the aim of making her his wife.Throughout the struggle for political Independence from the UK and the internal arguments between Sherdan and his followers there is the central relationship between Anya and Sherdan. Can they become lovers, overcome their different world views and find true love with someone who does not believe in what is the core of the other - religion and science?This book does not seem to judge either of the variants and does not favour the other, the two main characters are portrayed as humans rather than pure representatives of their school of thought. I found the idea of a Anya, who reads the bible and continuously feels connected to God, a bit of a challenge but Mountifield seems to have purely portrayed a believable religious character who doesn't preach as much as seeks respect for her believes from someone whose own belief system runs so contrary to the scientific world he lives in and is fighting for.Lesser authors would have engaged in a political battle or a principle ridden struggle between the two lovers, Mountifield keeps it personal and on the level of two lovers.With my own personal take on the conflict portrayed I found some of this reading slightly uncomfortable but I must applaud the author for her tactful and sensitive approach. There is plenty of food for thought in this book, skilled writing and enough suspense to make this an entertaining and stimulating read worth your time.