The Seclusion

Patricia (Patch) Collins is a true patriot of future America, upholding the restrictive policies of the Board, an unseen entity that saved the United States from terrorism by walling off the country. Residents are under constant camera surveillance, all words are recorded, and people have embedded chips to track their movements. Yet Patch embraces the harsh regulations as the price citizens have to pay for safety and security. Working with her best friend Rexx at the Natural Resources Department allows them the freedom to leave town. Out in the field, they discover items that contradict the history they've learned of the great Seclusion, including a suitcase full of books. Patch takes a book, banned for containing "toxic history," and instantly becomes a traitor. Now enemies of the state and with their own families in danger, Patch and Rexx escape into a wasteland of abandoned cities and horrific sights that only further their increased suspicion of the Board's party line. This is a dystopian drama that shows the grim rise of totalitarianism with scenes that echo today's headlines. The author has crafted an intricately detailed world. Intriguing and surprising supporting characters give depth to a somber story that begs for a sequel.