Michele Francesconi 5.0 out of 5 stars
Waiting for a miracle...

David Holper's satirical novel, The Church of the Very Last Chance, opens the human heart, cuts it into pieces, then magically heals it. When protagonist Ekaterina Vilakashopka is at her lowest, she receives a call from God to save humanity from itself. Like a phoenix rising, she creates a spiritual following with her dictate that "when something needs fixing, don't just pray about it. Do something." She and her followers do just that, challenging the status quo and the carbon-based industry about greenhouse gas emissions. In the process, the story unfolds as Ekaterina's grandmother teaches her the magic that can heal people's hearts. A biting satire that's often humorous, Holper's novel spins a yarn that encompasses characters that represent known figures, such as Crypo Boy Billionaire, former President Orangy-Porgy and President Bare-Chested KGB, among others. Personification deepens the story as the Novel argues with the Author and Capitalism--dressed in an expensive cream-colored Italian suit with a plastered on glib smile--shows arrogance and disdain for Ekaterina's efforts to effect change, claiming its collective industries have no responsibility for environmental damage or health consequences of fast food. But the novel doesn't stop there: it challenges the patriarchy that relies on violence to create fear, silence and passivity in women. At one point, when Ekaterina is almost killed, Galena, her counselor, tells her that "you can still be angry over the brutal things that those men have done, yet you can still chose love as your response." Holper's book is a testament to hope for humanity.

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Kristy 5.0 out of 5 stars
A must read page turner for our time

I couldn’t put down this utterly intriguing utopian magical thriller. It’s a compelling feminist novel that makes you question the nature of religion, magic, and political power. Well researched, it is poignant fantasy about saving the world. Set in an imaginary future that resembles the present mess we are in.


Lynda M 5.0 out of 5 stars
Creative, Exciting Novel

A great read! The main character’s idealism is like a tonic for these troubled times. I found myself rooting her on in every venture she undertakes—and believe me, she tackles plenty of suspenseful adventures! The creative structure of the book with its imaginative points of view is fascinating too. The writing is strong, the satire biting, and the enjoyment high.


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