Before They Were Left Behind

New York Times best-selling authors Tim LaHaye and Jerry B. Jenkins have sold more than 60 million copies of their Left Behind series, the fastest-selling adult fiction series of all time. Now these extraordinarily popular writers unveil the hotly anticipated Countdown to Rapture series, the thrilling saga that leads to the events of the Left Behind books.

Marilena Carpathia has only one dream; to be a mother. So when a mysterious clairvoyant promises the fulfillment of this dream, Marilena does not hesitate. Through genetic engineering and the power of the Prince of Darkness himself, Marilena is about to become a chosen vessel, one who will unknowingly give birth to the greatest evil the world has ever known. Halfway around the world, God’s plans are subtly being carried out too. Young Ray Steele is determined to avoid taking over the family business.

As the Antichrist continues to rise, Rayford, Buck and Chloe live their lives unaware that the globe is hurtling toward the Rapture. But when events in Israel heat up, the drama intensifies, and humankind steps ever closer to the seven years of Tribulation.

Dynamic Romanian multimillionaire Nicolae Carpathia's sphere of influence steadily grows as he parlays his looks, charm, charisma and intellectual brilliance into success in business and politics. But those who oppose him or even slight him are quickly eliminated.

Authors Tim LaHaye and Jerry B. Jenkins are now among the greatest successes in the history of publishing. They continue their captivating story with this third prequel, which leads directly to the events of Left Behind, the novel that started the phenomenon.

Pan-Con Airlines captain Rayford Steele prepares for a flight to London with beautiful flight attendant Hattie Durham. Because of his wife's newfound faith, Rayford looks forward to time and the possibilities with Hattie. Journalist Cameron "Buck" Williams is in Israel when the Russians attack, and he experiences for himself the miraculous deliverance of the Holy Land. Buck cannot deny Chicago bureau chief Lucinda Washington's insistence that the event was prophesied in Scripture, though he dares to not consider the personal ramifications.