The Second Civil War all but destroyed the United States, now called Prevalence. The tyrannical Scarlet Kingdom controls the Northeastern Territories and has killed or expelled any resistance—primarily non-White races. But three other factions arise from the country’s ruins: the Yaiba Insurrection, the Kabuto Sanctuary, and the Yoroi Alliance. The Yaiba is the most formidable, its members sporting Hanzo Gear, which combines ancient Japanese weaponry with 21st-century tech (for example, a heat-generating sword). The three factions suggest joining forces against “the Reds.” John Hamlin, an elite Yaiba warrior, reluctantly sends his highly skilled son, Darius, to train members of the Yoroi. He doesn’t entirely trust them, but with dissimilar mindsets and combat techniques, unity among the three groups demands efforts from all sides. Once the Reds get wind of what’s happening, they spark a series of assaults and counterassaults that lead to shocking deaths, hostages, and dissension. John must fight simply to protect his people as well as his family. Hampton crams this epic novel with rich details. Numerous defectors, for example, have varying skin colors and agendas across all four groups. Still, racism and subjugation fuel the Scarlet Kingdom, paralleling today’s real-world social issues. The author aptly describes the weapons and the factions’ individual styles. For instance, the Kabuto group uses cloaking devices in its stealthy approaches. These details enhance the many action scenes, ranging from suspenseful episodes to full-on strikes with “aura swords” that cut through metal as easily as flesh. While it’s hardly surprising that the never-ending battles make for a bleak story, the author steers clear of profanity and excessively graphic violence. The ending not only will leave readers craving a sequel, but also packs a mean, unforgettable punch.