When Evil Prospers by John Washburn Search Amazon for other books by or about John Washburn. Rating: Reviewed by: Heather Froeschl

What would happen if Mexico's highest drug cartel teamed up with a handful of Iranian terrorists? A plot to make a terrorist attack on American soil may come to be. What will America do about it? Have we learned anything from the hunt for terrorists in Afghanistan or the occupation of Iraq? This time, the president wants to work with the UN. Is a peaceful result possible? In John Washburn's novel, "When Evil Prospers," social chaos is about to unfold. This is a terrifying book when looking at the social study of it all.

The terrorist attack hits the most "Wanted-Dead or Alive" state in the nation – Texas. As a result, the governor takes steps for revenge – or as he sees it – protection for his people. Calling up the Texas National Guard to patrol the Mexico border is just the beginning. What follows is an attack on Cuba and Mexico through developing a volunteer militia – since the President of the US does not support these actions. The UN sees this all as an act of war and takes action. What ensues is an all out division of the United States.

While I am sure that John Washburn intended to draw attention to certain issues, I doubt that he meant for me to be terrified by the possibilities I took notice of – that the political "right," religious zealots of this country could actually entice such an uprising. This book contains a good deal of one-sided political commentary – most of which I do not agree with. I wonder really, who the "evil" that "prospers" is.

The book raises many issues that American readers should be thinking about. As a work of Christian Fiction, I feel it is typical in mission. As a story, the plot is interesting and fast paced, dealing with unfortunately similar current concerns. Readers will connect with the characters on both sides of the issues and likely find that the author leads them to side with those he gives a greater voice to. In execution, the writing is well done with a tight plot, vivid detail, and protagonists that breathe life. All in all, this is a thought-provoking read.