A Journey Through War and Faith: A Review of "Path of Totality"

"Path of Totality" is a thought-provoking novel set amidst the turmoil of World War III on American soil. The story follows seventeen-year-old Jadzia, whose life takes a dramatic turn when a mandatory draft forces her to leave her family behind and join the front lines of the war. The narrative is fast-paced, and despite being over 300 pages, it is a quick and engaging read

The characters in "Path of Totality" are well-developed and memorable, making it easy for readers to become invested in their stories. Jadzia's determination to survive and reunite with her family is both heart-wrenching and inspiring. When her best friend is killed, Jadzia makes the difficult decision to abandon her platoon and embark on a dangerous cross-country journey.

Along the way, Jadzia encounters Ryker, the son of a faith leader whose places of worship have been targeted by violence. Although the world around them is chaotic, Jadzia finds solace and friendship among Ryker's group of believers. The growing connection between Jadzia and Ryker adds a layer of depth to the story, as Jadzia struggles to reconcile her feelings for him with the reality of their situation.

One aspect of "Path of Totality" that readers should be aware of is its strong Christian themes. While the book description does not mention this, faith plays a significant role in the characters' lives and their decisions throughout the story. For some readers, this may be an appealing aspect of the book; however, for others, it might be more than they anticipated or hoped for.

Despite its religious themes, the overall storyline of "Path of Totality" is enjoyable, presenting a unique blend of war, survival, and personal growth. Jadzia's journey is fraught with danger, betrayal, and the ever-present threat of death. As the military relentlessly pursues her and her newfound companions, the stakes are high, and the question of whether sacrifice is the only path to freedom looms large.
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In conclusion, "Path of Totality" is a captivating novel that delves into the challenges of war, survival, and faith. The well-developed characters and engaging storyline make it a quick read, despite its length. However, readers should be prepared for the strong Christian themes that may not appeal to everyone. For those who appreciate a blend of action, personal growth, and spiritual exploration, "Path of Totality" may be a worthwhile read.

​Heather Kreke is passionate about showing teens and young adults they can find hope in God’s plan for their lives—even through the darkest times. She is the Blog Manager for Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference, and a Coordinator for the Blue Ridge Readers Connection. In her spare time, she teaches writing classes, shoots archery, and camps with her family. Married since 2004, Heather has three daughters. She loves connecting with readers on
her website heatherkreke.com, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

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