Duration: 3:47

1 views

0

"The Blood of Heaven" is a historical fiction novel written by Kent Wascom that explores themes of power, religion, and family. The story is set in the early 19th century, during a time of great social and political upheaval in the United States.The protagonist, Angel Woolsack, is born into a family of violent, charismatic preachers who roam the frontier, preaching the gospel and stirring up trouble wherever they go. As a young man, Angel is sent to study with his uncle, a wealthy planter in Louisiana, where he becomes embroiled in a dangerous game of politics and power.The novel explores the complex relationships between Angel and the people around him, particularly his family and the women he loves. Angel's father is a fire-and-brimstone preacher who believes in the power of violence to enforce his will, while his mother is a deeply religious woman who longs for a more peaceful life. Angel's uncle, Samuel Woolsack, is a wealthy and powerful planter who seeks to control the young man's future.Throughout the novel, religion plays a central role, with different characters interpreting and using it in various ways. Angel's father uses religion as a tool of violence and control, while his mother sees it as a source of comfort and hope. Angel himself is torn between his family's faith and his own desire for something more.The novel also delves into the political and social issues of the time, including the debate over slavery and the tension between the United States and Mexico. The characters are forced to navigate these complex issues as they try to carve out a place for themselves in a rapidly changing world.One of the central conflicts in the novel is between Angel and his uncle, Samuel Woolsack. Samuel sees Angel as a tool to be used for his own purposes, while Angel longs to be free and make his own choices. As the story unfolds, Angel becomes increasingly disillusioned with his uncle's way of life and begins to question the values that he has been raised with.The novel is written in a poetic and lyrical style, with vivid descriptions of the natural world and the characters' inner lives. The author uses symbolism throughout the book, particularly in the repeated references to the river that runs through the story. The river is both a source of life and a symbol of death and violence, reflecting the dual nature of the characters' experiences.Overall, "The Blood of Heaven" is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that explores complex issues of power, religion, and family. The characters are richly drawn and the story is compelling, drawing the reader in from the first page. Through the lens of Angel Woolsack's journey, the author offers a nuanced and insightful exploration of the challenges faced by those living in a rapidly changing world.