Childhood friends Jessica and George make a pact with Josh, a friend they have made in college. If the mark of the beast, the mark required for commerce described in Revelation, comes into existence they agree to get back together find each other and go off of the grid. When years later it appears that the mark has become a reality the three friends decide if this promise is one they should keep. Jessica is now a widow working in agricultural chemical sales, her in-laws are in ministry, and her daughter, a college student, is dating a young man with ties to Homeland Security. George is a doctor, has remarried after losing his first wife, and has 7-year-old twins. Josh is a Senator with a wife and two adolescent children who he fears would mock him if he shares this promise with them. Set in America in the present era and in the not-too-distant future, this novel tackles religious and social trends of our time and where they may be headed using thoughtful insight, vivid character development, love and humor. Read Less