This Present Darkness (Darkness, #1) Summary & Key Insights

Frank E. Peretti's "This Present Darkness," the first book in the "Darkness" series, is a spiritual thriller depicting a fierce, unseen battle between the forces of good and evil in a seemingly ordinary American town. The story unfolds in the fictional town of Ashton, where a subtle but pervasive darkness is settling. This isn't a typical horror story; the enemy isn't a physical monster, but a powerful demonic hierarchy actively working to corrupt and control the human population.

The narrative centers around Pastor David Larson, a dedicated but somewhat naive pastor wrestling with doubts and feeling increasingly powerless against the growing spiritual malaise in his community. He's supported by his wife, Karen, a strong and insightful woman who becomes increasingly aware of the supernatural forces at play. Their spiritual warfare isn't fought with swords and sorcery; instead, it involves prayer, fasting, and a deep understanding of spiritual principles.

A key antagonist is the demonic entity known only as "the Darkness," a powerful and cunning being commanding a legion of lesser demons. These demons manipulate human weaknesses, sow discord within families and organizations, and subtly influence events to further their agenda of spiritual enslavement. The narrative highlights the insidious nature of their work—spreading lies, creating addiction, and fostering apathy. They even infiltrate and corrupt seemingly devout Christians.

Another significant character is Hal, a charismatic and successful businessman who, unbeknownst to many, is a pawn of the Darkness. He embodies the seductive nature of worldly success and power, blinding many to the moral compromises required to achieve it.

Through Pastor Larson and his growing understanding of spiritual warfare, the reader witnesses the intense spiritual conflict taking place. The narrative highlights the importance of prayer, discernment, and spiritual armor in resisting the influence of evil. The demons' tactics range from subtle manipulation to overt attacks on individuals' minds and bodies. The battle is characterized by a constant struggle for the souls of Ashton's inhabitants.

The overarching themes of the book revolve around the reality of spiritual warfare, the power of prayer and faith, and the importance of discerning good from evil in a world where the lines are often blurred. Peretti doesn't shy away from depicting the intensity and brutality of spiritual conflict, showing the devastating consequences of succumbing to demonic influence while emphasizing the transformative power of spiritual resistance. The novel concludes with the protagonists having won a significant battle, but the war remains ongoing, foreshadowing future conflicts in the series. The sense of unease and the looming presence of unseen forces leaves the reader pondering the unseen realities shaping the world around them.