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The Fallen Shadows Trilogy #1
The Path to the Sun: An Epic Adventure
Alternate Cover Edition for 9781481964579.
You do not question The Way.
Every Toran knows this, even Kiran, a lowly orphan. But at age sixteen, no matter how hard he tries, he’s still tormented by doubt. With only an ancient scroll to guide them, he and six other teens embark on a quest into the Land Unknown, a journey across flatlands rife with wind demons, then raft a river whose spirit rages in a fury of whitewater, only to encounter a clan of nomads entranced by a witch and shaman. Kiran and his friends were warned to beware the savages and their heathen ways. But Kiran’s curiosity leads him astray.
When the group meets The Guardian and his family of followers, the others believe him to be the Wise Man described in the scroll. But something isn’t quite right. Too late, Kiran realizes they’ve been seduced by a cult. Into the jungle they flee, into the territory of cannibalistic headhunters, and the quest turns into a fight for survival.
Lost and facing starvation, Kiran must use all the skills he’s learned from the natives to survive. If he is to succeed in his quest, he must decide whether to accept The Way of his forefathers or trust his own judgment to find The Path to the Sun.
You do not question The Way.
Every Toran knows this, even Kiran, a lowly orphan. But at age sixteen, no matter how hard he tries, he’s still tormented by doubt. With only an ancient scroll to guide them, he and six other teens embark on a quest into the Land Unknown, a journey across flatlands rife with wind demons, then raft a river whose spirit rages in a fury of whitewater, only to encounter a clan of nomads entranced by a witch and shaman. Kiran and his friends were warned to beware the savages and their heathen ways. But Kiran’s curiosity leads him astray.
When the group meets The Guardian and his family of followers, the others believe him to be the Wise Man described in the scroll. But something isn’t quite right. Too late, Kiran realizes they’ve been seduced by a cult. Into the jungle they flee, into the territory of cannibalistic headhunters, and the quest turns into a fight for survival.
Lost and facing starvation, Kiran must use all the skills he’s learned from the natives to survive. If he is to succeed in his quest, he must decide whether to accept The Way of his forefathers or trust his own judgment to find The Path to the Sun.
374 pages, Paperback
First published February 6, 2013
31 people are currently reading
1615 people want to read
About the author
Kimberli A. Bindschatel
39 books150 followersKimberli A. Bindschatel is a thrill seeker, travel adventurer, passionate animal lover, wildlife photographer and award-winning author of the Amazon Best-selling Poppy McVie Mystery series.
When she’s not busting bad guys with her pen, she’s out in the wilderness getting an adrenaline fix. She has rappelled down a waterfall in Costa Rica, rafted the Grand Canyon, faced down an Alaskan grizzly bear at ten feet (camera in hand), snorkeled with stingrays, and white-water kayaked a Norwegian river. She’s always ready for an adventure.
She lives in northern Michigan where she loves to hike in the woods with her rescue dog, Josee, share a bottle of wine with good friends, or sail Lake Michigan with her husband on their boat, Priorities. (You gotta have your priorities!)
Kimberli also co-writes the Charity Styles Caribbean Thriller series with Best-selling author, Wayne Stinnett.
She loves sharing her passion for adventure and wildlife with her readers and happily gives away some of her award-winning wildlife photos. Sign up for her newsletter at www.kimberlibindschatel.com and get a free photograph for your desktop.
Follow me on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Kimberl...
When she’s not busting bad guys with her pen, she’s out in the wilderness getting an adrenaline fix. She has rappelled down a waterfall in Costa Rica, rafted the Grand Canyon, faced down an Alaskan grizzly bear at ten feet (camera in hand), snorkeled with stingrays, and white-water kayaked a Norwegian river. She’s always ready for an adventure.
She lives in northern Michigan where she loves to hike in the woods with her rescue dog, Josee, share a bottle of wine with good friends, or sail Lake Michigan with her husband on their boat, Priorities. (You gotta have your priorities!)
Kimberli also co-writes the Charity Styles Caribbean Thriller series with Best-selling author, Wayne Stinnett.
She loves sharing her passion for adventure and wildlife with her readers and happily gives away some of her award-winning wildlife photos. Sign up for her newsletter at www.kimberlibindschatel.com and get a free photograph for your desktop.
Follow me on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Kimberl...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
August 21, 2013
What an excellent book. It takes you on a journey to differnt places, religions, ideas, thrills, heartache, pretty much what we all must face at some point in our lifetime. If you have ever traveled to another country and are trying to learn a new culture and be open to it, then you can identify with the main character. Often people are not open to change and want others to change to meet their needs. We are all close minded in some respect and this book was very enlightening about that journey of self discovery.
What we find in the end may or may not be what we expect. Kimberli did an excellent job of keeping me engaged in this book and wanting to know what was going to happen next to the main characters.
This is a must read.
What we find in the end may or may not be what we expect. Kimberli did an excellent job of keeping me engaged in this book and wanting to know what was going to happen next to the main characters.
This is a must read.
September 11, 2013
Honestly, I was a bit concerned at how religious this book was clearly heading. I am not relgious and feared I was being drawn into another religious story masqueraded as something else. Luckily, I persevered and found myself quite pleasantly proven wrong.
While the story is about teens and their unquestioned devotion to blind faith(the Way), we are taken along for the journey that allows them to see the world through unblinded eyes. And we learn that skepticism is a necessity if we want to have a happy and fullfilled life; A life led by your heart, not by arbitrary rules that force unnatural behaviors.
I look forward to reading more of this story.
While the story is about teens and their unquestioned devotion to blind faith(the Way), we are taken along for the journey that allows them to see the world through unblinded eyes. And we learn that skepticism is a necessity if we want to have a happy and fullfilled life; A life led by your heart, not by arbitrary rules that force unnatural behaviors.
I look forward to reading more of this story.
April 15, 2013
When a group of chosen teenagers set out on an adventure no one else was thought to have ever experienced, they can't help but believe they are destined for something great, something fate has selected for them. Determined to find the Voice of the Father, the only thing that can save their destitute village, the young group quickly learns what a large world survives outside the boundaries of the only home they have ever known. Facing devilish storms, foreign friends and foes, a sea at the end of the world, or possibly even the startling discover that the world never ends, just begins again, some eyes will open to truths that were always there, but never seen.
Let the next great odyssey begin.
High Notes: Kimberli Bindschatel is a beautiful wordsmith. The combination of dialogue and prose is just enough to always keep you thinking, wondering if the narrative the young protagonists are delivering can be trusted. Are their beliefs and perceptions accurate, or have they been deluded by the traditions, religion, and storytellings of their forefathers?
Equally as interesting is how the relationships between these teenagers change as power shifts, romances flair, friendships are tested, and pasts are unearthed. Characters are equally as important as plot and underlying philosophies, which I find rare.
Low Notes: Currently, there is no known date for the release of the second book! What could be more ominous?
Let the next great odyssey begin.
High Notes: Kimberli Bindschatel is a beautiful wordsmith. The combination of dialogue and prose is just enough to always keep you thinking, wondering if the narrative the young protagonists are delivering can be trusted. Are their beliefs and perceptions accurate, or have they been deluded by the traditions, religion, and storytellings of their forefathers?
Equally as interesting is how the relationships between these teenagers change as power shifts, romances flair, friendships are tested, and pasts are unearthed. Characters are equally as important as plot and underlying philosophies, which I find rare.
Low Notes: Currently, there is no known date for the release of the second book! What could be more ominous?
May 12, 2015
I was wary when I started to read "The Path to the Sun" because I'm neither a big fan of, nor an expert on, YA and fantasy stories. But a few pages into the first chapter I became engrossed in the story, and genre was forgotten.
Kiran is a devoted but confused young man yearning to belong in his society (Who hasn't felt that at least once in their lives?). He is thrust into the adventure of his young life when he's chosen to go on a quest with six other young men and women from his village to find the Voice of the Father and gain His blessing/wisdom in hopes of ending a devastating drought.
Along the way, Kiran quietly grows into a confident young man as he survives one serious test after another, and emerges a strong leader of his people, although he's still humbled by self-perception and doubt about the belief system that cost the lives of some of his comrades in what ultimately seemed to be a futile quest to him.
The writing is clean, clear, well-paced and woven with subplots and themes that reflect each of our lives: love, faith, friendship, humility, courage. The author's style is just formal enough to imply an old, mythical, primitive world, but modern enough for today's younger readers. It's an excellent start to a promising trilogy.
Kiran is a devoted but confused young man yearning to belong in his society (Who hasn't felt that at least once in their lives?). He is thrust into the adventure of his young life when he's chosen to go on a quest with six other young men and women from his village to find the Voice of the Father and gain His blessing/wisdom in hopes of ending a devastating drought.
Along the way, Kiran quietly grows into a confident young man as he survives one serious test after another, and emerges a strong leader of his people, although he's still humbled by self-perception and doubt about the belief system that cost the lives of some of his comrades in what ultimately seemed to be a futile quest to him.
The writing is clean, clear, well-paced and woven with subplots and themes that reflect each of our lives: love, faith, friendship, humility, courage. The author's style is just formal enough to imply an old, mythical, primitive world, but modern enough for today's younger readers. It's an excellent start to a promising trilogy.
May 16, 2015
*******Spoiler Alert***** Do not read if you do not want to find out about events in the book.
I really like this book. It stirred many emotions in me which is always a good sign.... I felt myself aggravated, sad, dumbfounded, happy, excited and many more emotions at various points in the book. I find this review tough to write... I am smugly satisfied with the fate of several of the seven "pilgrims"and found myself thinking "About time!!" when Deke met with his fate. The symbolism, allegory, and cultural comparisons in this book were well done and I found myself able to relate each group to some culture I have have read about or come across. I could go on and on about various comparisons, but I will try and keep this review to the point of the book and I don't want to influence anyone's comparisons. Very well thought out!! The growth of the three surviving characters was written well as the struggled with their narrowminded faith. The unknown fate of Roh and the end of the book with Kiran left me wanting to know more. It just left me hanging ... I can't imagine Kiran staying with the knowledge he gained and it will be interesting to see if there is more to come.
All in all an excellent story!!
I really like this book. It stirred many emotions in me which is always a good sign.... I felt myself aggravated, sad, dumbfounded, happy, excited and many more emotions at various points in the book. I find this review tough to write... I am smugly satisfied with the fate of several of the seven "pilgrims"and found myself thinking "About time!!" when Deke met with his fate. The symbolism, allegory, and cultural comparisons in this book were well done and I found myself able to relate each group to some culture I have have read about or come across. I could go on and on about various comparisons, but I will try and keep this review to the point of the book and I don't want to influence anyone's comparisons. Very well thought out!! The growth of the three surviving characters was written well as the struggled with their narrowminded faith. The unknown fate of Roh and the end of the book with Kiran left me wanting to know more. It just left me hanging ... I can't imagine Kiran staying with the knowledge he gained and it will be interesting to see if there is more to come.
All in all an excellent story!!
December 22, 2015
I received this book free from the author, it took me awhile but I was finally able to read it. Once I started it was hard to put it down, at times the writing seems naive and childish but a moment later it matured; the two are woven so finely together that I don't mind the areas of naivety. I'm guessing (because I didn't check) that this is a young-adult novel, so I shouldn't get peeved at the sections that read that younger naivety, but after it reverts back to a more "adult" voice it dawns on me that, the character are still "kids." This type of Voice is totally normal.
There were a few areas, that I wish had been expanded on, but for about the same reason as above, it didn't bother me as much once I kept reading. I love the realizations Kiran makes, it is like "faith in humanity"... well until you meet Elder Morgan through and through. I'm not totally clear on things but I think he did that to Aldwyn, and Elder Wregan.
The ending didn't leave much of an opening for a second book, but i'm looking forward to it to see where the story goes.
There were a few areas, that I wish had been expanded on, but for about the same reason as above, it didn't bother me as much once I kept reading. I love the realizations Kiran makes, it is like "faith in humanity"... well until you meet Elder Morgan through and through. I'm not totally clear on things but I think he did that to Aldwyn, and Elder Wregan.
The ending didn't leave much of an opening for a second book, but i'm looking forward to it to see where the story goes.
March 7, 2013
Path to the sun was an exciting read. The characters were very well developed with all their quirks and shortcoming right out there for the reader to see. They were also noble and brave, willing to do what ever necessary to save their village. Some I loved and some…well not so much. And that was the beauty of it; even the characters I didn’t like were fun to read about and multidimensional.
This story was full of action with the characters facing real danger frequently. The author did a good job showing how the characters grew and changed while on the quest. She also did a magnificent job creating the setting. Once I started reading this I couldn’t put it down. I look forward to the next book in the series.
This story was full of action with the characters facing real danger frequently. The author did a good job showing how the characters grew and changed while on the quest. She also did a magnificent job creating the setting. Once I started reading this I couldn’t put it down. I look forward to the next book in the series.
August 16, 2013
The story is full of action and adventure. the characters seem so real. My heart want out to kiran. great job
Want to read
August 14, 2013Just won a free e-book of this and can't wait to read it! Thank you :D
August 20, 2013
I enjoyed the book very much. The characters were well developed and a pleasure to get to know. I look forward to the next book.
Read
March 31, 2025During a drought the Elders claim is a condemnation of the Toran's sins, six Toran youth and one orphan (Kiran) are sent "into the Land Uknown on a pilgrimage to the dwelling place of the Voice of the Father." The Voice would tell them who the Seventh Elder would be. Of course it's going to be Kiran, especially since his adopted father gives him a scroll that he can read even though only Elders should know how to read (even the son of an Elder doesn't know), but how he gets to the end is the story.
The five boys (Kiran, Roh, Deke [arrogant jerk], Jandon [Kiran's friend but Deke's follower until he's not], and Bhau [who is cruel and I could see being a rapist)) and two girls (Bria [the girl Kiran is in love with] and Kail [who is super whiny which sometimes makes sense and sometimes doesn't to where I can't stand her]) set forth and encounter "savages" who only care for them and teach them how to hunt and make baskets after one of the boys dies. Then two more boys die while one of the girls decides to stay behind on in an area with a polygamous cult. I was getting irritated that the boys died while the girls chose their routes until towards the end when the remaining girl and boy other than Kiran decide to stay in a lovely village. They also meet cannibals and treacherous rapids along the way.
The story is broken up by parts of what we eventually learn will be Kiran's codex, which includes some religious passages, songs, drawings, and survival tips. There are times when Deke even in his zealotry makes sense. I don't like Kiran a lot of times because he just accepts anything anyone tells him at face value until too many people are dead and he doesn't trust the nice village at the end (and then eventually does). Bria at one point tells him he doesn't know what he believes and I almost said "that" out loud.
I understand why the teens (16/17) are naive and gullible to a point, having lived in their very religious village and told the nearby tribe are heathens because they don't follow the Way. But they didn't even know the two groups speak different languages? They didn't know other groups lived around the world? It's a bit annoying.
and Bria is 100% pregnant but with Kiran's baby or her rapist's, I don't know. I don't think she would know since the two occurrences were I think close in time
Despite it's great words on what it means to make the beliefs of a religion your own, I can't see me reading the others in the trilogy.
The five boys (Kiran, Roh, Deke [arrogant jerk], Jandon [Kiran's friend but Deke's follower until he's not], and Bhau [who is cruel and I could see being a rapist)) and two girls (Bria [the girl Kiran is in love with] and Kail [who is super whiny which sometimes makes sense and sometimes doesn't to where I can't stand her]) set forth and encounter "savages" who only care for them and teach them how to hunt and make baskets after one of the boys dies. Then two more boys die while one of the girls decides to stay behind on in an area with a polygamous cult. I was getting irritated that the boys died while the girls chose their routes until towards the end when the remaining girl and boy other than Kiran decide to stay in a lovely village. They also meet cannibals and treacherous rapids along the way.
The story is broken up by parts of what we eventually learn will be Kiran's codex, which includes some religious passages, songs, drawings, and survival tips. There are times when Deke even in his zealotry makes sense. I don't like Kiran a lot of times because he just accepts anything anyone tells him at face value until too many people are dead and he doesn't trust the nice village at the end (and then eventually does). Bria at one point tells him he doesn't know what he believes and I almost said "that" out loud.
I understand why the teens (16/17) are naive and gullible to a point, having lived in their very religious village and told the nearby tribe are heathens because they don't follow the Way. But they didn't even know the two groups speak different languages? They didn't know other groups lived around the world? It's a bit annoying.
Despite it's great words on what it means to make the beliefs of a religion your own, I can't see me reading the others in the trilogy.
Read
July 16, 2020First comment. It has been 7 years. Where is the 2nd book? I found the book a little wordy, & I tired of Kirin's constant indecision & not believing in himself, but of course, he did at the end. Each of the 7 youths that were sent on the journey are each personality arcetypes. That was fun as I read on & found the story to be more than just an outward adventure. Sadly the warrior type was the first to drop out. As others have written, once in to the story I could not put the book down. I have traveled a lot & love adventure. I loved the "primitive" people & the big city of diversity at the end. IF only, our world today could be that way. Connected to the land, love of ALL creatures & enjoy the beauty of diversity.
August 3, 2014
Okay, first I want to say that I won and ARC of this book from Goodreads. And I won it a long time ago. I don't know what to say about this book. I started it a long time ago and I'm am no longer able of conveying all my feelings and thoughts about it. But still, I'll try. I had a couple of chapters left in the book before I weirdly just dropped it months ago. I got so far in it I should have finished it then, but here I am. One year later.
This book, when it started, I didn't really know what it was going to be about. I thought it was some adventure novel that dealt with survival and an awesome heroic journey. It was clear that the Torans were living from long ago, so their beliefs did not faze me. They believed in the Voice of the Father and attributed a drought to their sins. So off these seven (7? I actually don't remember)kids go to find the voice of the father at the edge of the sea. Yes, they don't know the earth is round. This is where the book has awesome moments, and not so awesome moments. I could describe the writing like that as well. The writing at times seemed formal to match the tribal sense of everything, but then seemed conversational and modern. Still, that wasn't a big deal. What was a big deal was how much things dragged on and I think it was just too long. I mean, cool stuff happens when they meet all these new people, the nice and the not-so-nice, and try to get themselves out of dire situations. People die, which was fine with me. Some of the parts were exciting but most of them were boring, which in event caused me to drop the book several times.
Now, characters and character development are some of my favorite things in novels. I can't say I was too crazy about these characters. I liked Roh the most and was disappointed at first that he wasn't the protagonist and that Karin was. Karin seemed too boring and unwise to me, if that makes sense. But in the end, his character traits proved to be essential for the ending of the book. Even though everything dragged on and got boring, it was kind of worth in the end. I just found the end so satisfying, with Karin realizing the truth and growing as a person. It was like a religious person turned atheist. I am an atheist and I could relate and feel satisfied when Karin saw that everything presented in the holy scrolls provided to them by the elders was just metaphorical and that he shouldn't be told what to believe. Really, his journey was not a quest to reach the great Father and receive his blessing, but it was a quest for the truth. But in the end, everyone believes whatever he/she wants to, and the truth matters no more.
Oh, and rest assured. Karin does indeed find out that the earth is round.
This book, when it started, I didn't really know what it was going to be about. I thought it was some adventure novel that dealt with survival and an awesome heroic journey. It was clear that the Torans were living from long ago, so their beliefs did not faze me. They believed in the Voice of the Father and attributed a drought to their sins. So off these seven (7? I actually don't remember)kids go to find the voice of the father at the edge of the sea. Yes, they don't know the earth is round. This is where the book has awesome moments, and not so awesome moments. I could describe the writing like that as well. The writing at times seemed formal to match the tribal sense of everything, but then seemed conversational and modern. Still, that wasn't a big deal. What was a big deal was how much things dragged on and I think it was just too long. I mean, cool stuff happens when they meet all these new people, the nice and the not-so-nice, and try to get themselves out of dire situations. People die, which was fine with me. Some of the parts were exciting but most of them were boring, which in event caused me to drop the book several times.
Now, characters and character development are some of my favorite things in novels. I can't say I was too crazy about these characters. I liked Roh the most and was disappointed at first that he wasn't the protagonist and that Karin was. Karin seemed too boring and unwise to me, if that makes sense. But in the end, his character traits proved to be essential for the ending of the book. Even though everything dragged on and got boring, it was kind of worth in the end. I just found the end so satisfying, with Karin realizing the truth and growing as a person. It was like a religious person turned atheist. I am an atheist and I could relate and feel satisfied when Karin saw that everything presented in the holy scrolls provided to them by the elders was just metaphorical and that he shouldn't be told what to believe. Really, his journey was not a quest to reach the great Father and receive his blessing, but it was a quest for the truth. But in the end, everyone believes whatever he/she wants to, and the truth matters no more.
Oh, and rest assured. Karin does indeed find out that the earth is round.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 4, 2015
An 'everything but the kitchen sink' novel!
#fantasy
3 Stars!
Series: book 1: The Fallen Shadows Trilogy
Characters: Kiran
Setting: fictitious world
Mature Themes: violence, murder, death & sex
Recommendation: This is a tricky one. Fantasy and epic quest readers will absolutely enjoy this novel. Politics, religion, personal interplay, all of these themes are present and not for the lover of "fluffy" reads. If you can get past the high religious content this is a wonderful, fully realized epic adventure.
What a full read this was. Kiran is a young orphan from a small village set in its ways and traditions. When he's chosen to go on an epic quest to save his village he's confused and filled with self doubt. Kiran and his six other companion set out across the world in search of something they know nothing of except a single legend and an old scroll given to them in secret. Their journey is filled with hardships, the need for blind faith, and great loss.
The plot was long and complicated. Kiran and his friends meet so many different cultures and religions along their journey that the middle of the story seemed to drag when compared to the urgency of the beginning and excitement of the end. The main plot driver of this book almost landed it on my did not finish shelf, religion, a LOT of it. Every culture had a different one, and each was victimized by at least one of the seven travelers, including their own. While the struggles the young travelers experience with regard to religion feels accurate, it's also not what I enjoy reading, especially close to four-hundred pages of it.
The setting of the novel is epic...really epic. There are so many places they travel to and all are described in exquisite detail. This was the highlight of the novel. More than once I found myself re-reading passages so I could re-visualize the scenery and bask in it's depth. Each of the indigenous people in these areas are so well written to match their surroundings they make you feel as if they are real and the author has first hand knowledge with them all.
Last but not least, characters. Kiran and his friends are an interesting bunch. The scholar, the brute, the beautiful girl, the religious man, etc. Each personality was developed well and enough to satisfy the need their role hand for the larger plot. The dynamic between characters was real and at some points heart wrenching and made you want to scream at them.
#fantasy
3 Stars!
Series: book 1: The Fallen Shadows Trilogy
Characters: Kiran
Setting: fictitious world
Mature Themes: violence, murder, death & sex
Recommendation: This is a tricky one. Fantasy and epic quest readers will absolutely enjoy this novel. Politics, religion, personal interplay, all of these themes are present and not for the lover of "fluffy" reads. If you can get past the high religious content this is a wonderful, fully realized epic adventure.
What a full read this was. Kiran is a young orphan from a small village set in its ways and traditions. When he's chosen to go on an epic quest to save his village he's confused and filled with self doubt. Kiran and his six other companion set out across the world in search of something they know nothing of except a single legend and an old scroll given to them in secret. Their journey is filled with hardships, the need for blind faith, and great loss.
The plot was long and complicated. Kiran and his friends meet so many different cultures and religions along their journey that the middle of the story seemed to drag when compared to the urgency of the beginning and excitement of the end. The main plot driver of this book almost landed it on my did not finish shelf, religion, a LOT of it. Every culture had a different one, and each was victimized by at least one of the seven travelers, including their own. While the struggles the young travelers experience with regard to religion feels accurate, it's also not what I enjoy reading, especially close to four-hundred pages of it.
The setting of the novel is epic...really epic. There are so many places they travel to and all are described in exquisite detail. This was the highlight of the novel. More than once I found myself re-reading passages so I could re-visualize the scenery and bask in it's depth. Each of the indigenous people in these areas are so well written to match their surroundings they make you feel as if they are real and the author has first hand knowledge with them all.
Last but not least, characters. Kiran and his friends are an interesting bunch. The scholar, the brute, the beautiful girl, the religious man, etc. Each personality was developed well and enough to satisfy the need their role hand for the larger plot. The dynamic between characters was real and at some points heart wrenching and made you want to scream at them.
October 16, 2013
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Like many other reviewers, I was a little concerned at first that this would be a religious book. But while of course belief, faith, and spirituality are among its central themes, this novel is actually an impressive coming-of-age adventure travelogue that ultimately shows the importance of questioning what one is told, respecting different ideas and peoples, and understanding that all systems of belief are just different ways that humans have developed of trying to explain "What Is", as one of the characters puts it. I'm not the least bit religious (I generally identify as an atheist) so I can definitely get behind this message.
Kiran is a great protagonist, because it's easy to see through his eyes at different points in the story and at different points in his personal development. He and the six other youths with whom he's set out on his epic quest are all pretty well drawn, too, though some more than others, which largely (and understandably) depends on the amount of time they spend in Kiran's tale.
Bindschatel obviously has a talent for descriptive writing that doesn't feel overblown, even when she goes on for many pages about the jungle, the river, the desert, and what have you. She also shows sensitivity when trying to depict people of different races, tribes, etc., although I do wonder whether she'd be able to pull off the same trick in a novel with a more modern context (this book takes place in a kind of imagined ancient past). I have similar feelings about how sexism is implied here to be a bad thing, but not in a way where the narrative tries to hit you over the head with it. The female characters are all great; Kiran doesn't seem to have a sexist bone in his body, but plenty of other male characters do and are shown to be in the wrong.
This is a long and absolutely finished work. So I'm a bit perplexed that Bindschatel has planned a trilogy. I'm kind of hoping that, rather than continuing Kiran's story, the trilogy will be more abstract. Perhaps two more books on the same theme or set in the same world, but with different characters or places entirely? I feel like too many authors feel pressure to write series when a stand-alone novel can be even more powerful.
Like many other reviewers, I was a little concerned at first that this would be a religious book. But while of course belief, faith, and spirituality are among its central themes, this novel is actually an impressive coming-of-age adventure travelogue that ultimately shows the importance of questioning what one is told, respecting different ideas and peoples, and understanding that all systems of belief are just different ways that humans have developed of trying to explain "What Is", as one of the characters puts it. I'm not the least bit religious (I generally identify as an atheist) so I can definitely get behind this message.
Kiran is a great protagonist, because it's easy to see through his eyes at different points in the story and at different points in his personal development. He and the six other youths with whom he's set out on his epic quest are all pretty well drawn, too, though some more than others, which largely (and understandably) depends on the amount of time they spend in Kiran's tale.
Bindschatel obviously has a talent for descriptive writing that doesn't feel overblown, even when she goes on for many pages about the jungle, the river, the desert, and what have you. She also shows sensitivity when trying to depict people of different races, tribes, etc., although I do wonder whether she'd be able to pull off the same trick in a novel with a more modern context (this book takes place in a kind of imagined ancient past). I have similar feelings about how sexism is implied here to be a bad thing, but not in a way where the narrative tries to hit you over the head with it. The female characters are all great; Kiran doesn't seem to have a sexist bone in his body, but plenty of other male characters do and are shown to be in the wrong.
This is a long and absolutely finished work. So I'm a bit perplexed that Bindschatel has planned a trilogy. I'm kind of hoping that, rather than continuing Kiran's story, the trilogy will be more abstract. Perhaps two more books on the same theme or set in the same world, but with different characters or places entirely? I feel like too many authors feel pressure to write series when a stand-alone novel can be even more powerful.
February 7, 2015
I wrote a review a couple weeks ago and as I was wrapping it up the app shut down and did not save a word. Frustrated, I waited to return until I felt more kindly towards it.
I was given some great advice recently about writing reviews. For some reason some people feel the need to repeat a synopsis of the story. I (we) feel this is unnecessary and sometimes leads to spoilers; not much makes me more upset than having a book ruined for me that way. My friend suggests that you write as if you are speaking to a friend explaining all the reasons you think they would like to read it without giving away the story.
So, here goes, my friends...
Seriously, you have to read this book! The descriptions of places and people alone make it worth the read. The characters are engaging and the way this author writes really gives you the sense that you know them. I. Can. See. Them. Their personality, faults, energy; so much so that you can practically see the choice they will make before they make it. Even characters that appeared for one or two scenes are as clear as day to me. The actual story is imaginative, interesting, emotional, fun, exciting, mysterious, logical, and surprising. What I loved the most was how clearly I could see everything. Even now, several weeks later I can bring a scene from the book to mind and see it in living color as clear as day. Wonderful! There have been times when I can't remember a story I read...within days or weeks of reading it. I thought it was my old-timers :) I can't wait to read more, more, more!
Thank you Kimberli Bindschatel !!
Friends, this book needs to be on your must read list!
I was given some great advice recently about writing reviews. For some reason some people feel the need to repeat a synopsis of the story. I (we) feel this is unnecessary and sometimes leads to spoilers; not much makes me more upset than having a book ruined for me that way. My friend suggests that you write as if you are speaking to a friend explaining all the reasons you think they would like to read it without giving away the story.
So, here goes, my friends...
Seriously, you have to read this book! The descriptions of places and people alone make it worth the read. The characters are engaging and the way this author writes really gives you the sense that you know them. I. Can. See. Them. Their personality, faults, energy; so much so that you can practically see the choice they will make before they make it. Even characters that appeared for one or two scenes are as clear as day to me. The actual story is imaginative, interesting, emotional, fun, exciting, mysterious, logical, and surprising. What I loved the most was how clearly I could see everything. Even now, several weeks later I can bring a scene from the book to mind and see it in living color as clear as day. Wonderful! There have been times when I can't remember a story I read...within days or weeks of reading it. I thought it was my old-timers :) I can't wait to read more, more, more!
Thank you Kimberli Bindschatel !!
Friends, this book needs to be on your must read list!
July 24, 2015
I would like to get something off my chest. I have had this digital copy of The Path to the Sun for a while now, for so long I cannot remember when I received it. I was given this book in exchange for my honest review in which I will now provide. Sorry for the wait.
The Path to the Sun is a young adult tale that spans an entire world, literally. The story is about a group of teens, seven in all, sent on a pilgrimage to save their village. On their adventure, they are faced with challenges both physical and psychological to discover the “truth”. Kimberli Bindschatel does a great job of setting the scene and growing upon that to create an enjoyable adventure, which left me wanting more. On the other hand, that was its only set back. The last scene was not just a cliffhanger; it simply stopped, ended, without another word. I literally read the last few word, expecting more, then flip the page and there was nothing, the story was done. If this was not a series I would be frustrated, however, this is not the case. Therefore, I simply dropped what would have been a five star to a four.
If you like young adult fantasy and want to have a grand adventure with some enjoyable characters pick up a copy of The Path to the Sun by Kimberli Bindschatel. I can’t wait for the next book, it is literally eating at me not knowing what is going to happen next. =-)
If you have any questions or comments about my review or the book I would love to hear from you. Until then, enjoy your reads.
Genre: YA Fantasy
Ideal Age: 16+
Content: Some Sexuality
Page Count: 375 E-Book
The Path to the Sun is a young adult tale that spans an entire world, literally. The story is about a group of teens, seven in all, sent on a pilgrimage to save their village. On their adventure, they are faced with challenges both physical and psychological to discover the “truth”. Kimberli Bindschatel does a great job of setting the scene and growing upon that to create an enjoyable adventure, which left me wanting more. On the other hand, that was its only set back. The last scene was not just a cliffhanger; it simply stopped, ended, without another word. I literally read the last few word, expecting more, then flip the page and there was nothing, the story was done. If this was not a series I would be frustrated, however, this is not the case. Therefore, I simply dropped what would have been a five star to a four.
If you like young adult fantasy and want to have a grand adventure with some enjoyable characters pick up a copy of The Path to the Sun by Kimberli Bindschatel. I can’t wait for the next book, it is literally eating at me not knowing what is going to happen next. =-)
If you have any questions or comments about my review or the book I would love to hear from you. Until then, enjoy your reads.
Genre: YA Fantasy
Ideal Age: 16+
Content: Some Sexuality
Page Count: 375 E-Book
May 30, 2014
The Path To The Sun was a book full of adventure and strong will. The book includes a group of teenagers traveling to the "edge" of the earth in order to hear the Voice of the Father and to get his blessing to end the drought that has overcome their village.
The book is told in third person, telling us the view of one of the six young people on the journey, named Kiran. As the book goes on, we learn about all the struggles and emotions that they face along the way.
I enjoyed the thought that Kimberli put into this book. In other reviews I read quite often that she is a good wordsmith and I would agree. The book was very deep thus making me think a lot about how I view my religion. This book has a deeper meaning than any other book I've read. Kimberli forced me to think more about what I believe and why I believe it. She made it clear that some people never get a chance to question what they believe, thus not growing in their beliefs.
As much as I did like the book, there were also some things that I did not enjoy about the book. I feel as though some of the characters were "cardboard" and did not have much to them. I did not get to know some of them as much as I would have liked to.
Although I rated the book a three, I do plan on reading the rest of the trilogy because my dislikes and questions of the first book can very easily be taken care of or answered in the next books. I do recommend this book because it's not the average Young Adult book, this book has the power to question everything you believe in. I think you'd enjoy it! Good Reading!
The book is told in third person, telling us the view of one of the six young people on the journey, named Kiran. As the book goes on, we learn about all the struggles and emotions that they face along the way.
I enjoyed the thought that Kimberli put into this book. In other reviews I read quite often that she is a good wordsmith and I would agree. The book was very deep thus making me think a lot about how I view my religion. This book has a deeper meaning than any other book I've read. Kimberli forced me to think more about what I believe and why I believe it. She made it clear that some people never get a chance to question what they believe, thus not growing in their beliefs.
As much as I did like the book, there were also some things that I did not enjoy about the book. I feel as though some of the characters were "cardboard" and did not have much to them. I did not get to know some of them as much as I would have liked to.
Although I rated the book a three, I do plan on reading the rest of the trilogy because my dislikes and questions of the first book can very easily be taken care of or answered in the next books. I do recommend this book because it's not the average Young Adult book, this book has the power to question everything you believe in. I think you'd enjoy it! Good Reading!
December 7, 2013
*I received a free copy from Goodreads First Reads*
At first, when I started the book, I thought it would be religion centered, so I was a bit uncomfortable. However, that wasn't the case at all. Although many points focused on the idea of God, and how He is represented through different religions; there was much more depth than that. The Path to the Sun: An Epic Adventure focused on human beliefs, and what it means to be human- how we deal with death, how we find the strength to move on. It was very philosophical, and I found myself wondering about my own religion when I finished the book.
Great action scenes, and new revelations are also intertwined into the story; as well as emotional problems. The book explores turmoil humans all feel inside, and how people deal with it. I personally enjoyed the action the most, but the philosophy was great too.
The only faults with this book were the characters and the beginning. There were a lot of characters, and the plot was very fast and full of action; so the characters weren't developed enough. Sure, they were all unique, but I felt no connection with them, and no impact when some of them died. In the beginning, I was a bit confused as to what was going on, and it took me half the book to figure out that it took place during the days where people thought the earth was flat, not round.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book, and I recommend it for people interested in action and insights into belief.
At first, when I started the book, I thought it would be religion centered, so I was a bit uncomfortable. However, that wasn't the case at all. Although many points focused on the idea of God, and how He is represented through different religions; there was much more depth than that. The Path to the Sun: An Epic Adventure focused on human beliefs, and what it means to be human- how we deal with death, how we find the strength to move on. It was very philosophical, and I found myself wondering about my own religion when I finished the book.
Great action scenes, and new revelations are also intertwined into the story; as well as emotional problems. The book explores turmoil humans all feel inside, and how people deal with it. I personally enjoyed the action the most, but the philosophy was great too.
The only faults with this book were the characters and the beginning. There were a lot of characters, and the plot was very fast and full of action; so the characters weren't developed enough. Sure, they were all unique, but I felt no connection with them, and no impact when some of them died. In the beginning, I was a bit confused as to what was going on, and it took me half the book to figure out that it took place during the days where people thought the earth was flat, not round.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book, and I recommend it for people interested in action and insights into belief.
December 13, 2014
Full review here: http://ennleesreadingcorner.wordpress...
I received a free copy of The Path to the Sun from the author.
The Path to the Sun follows young Toran Kiran and his six friends as they set out on a pilgrimage to find The Voice of the Great Father at the end of the world. Their village is suffering under a seemingly endless drought, and the Elders have decided to send the youngsters on this dangerous journey in a desperate attempt to earn the favor of their god. The teens know nothing of the outside world and must learn quickly if they hope to survive - and not all of them will.
I'm very divided on this book. There are aspects I like, but also parts that I really dislike. I've gone back and forth on my rating on Goodreads several times and I'm still not sure I'm settled. There are a lot of imbalances in character development and writing level that caused difficulty for me. Overall, however, it is a good effort from a first-time writer and definitely action packed!
Note: For all the parents out there that actually care about what their children read, please be advised about some of the content in The Path of the Sun. There are several very intense scenes depicting sexual intercourse, substance use, and violence (including an implied rape and cannibalism). It's probably a little much for younger readers.
I received a free copy of The Path to the Sun from the author.
The Path to the Sun follows young Toran Kiran and his six friends as they set out on a pilgrimage to find The Voice of the Great Father at the end of the world. Their village is suffering under a seemingly endless drought, and the Elders have decided to send the youngsters on this dangerous journey in a desperate attempt to earn the favor of their god. The teens know nothing of the outside world and must learn quickly if they hope to survive - and not all of them will.
I'm very divided on this book. There are aspects I like, but also parts that I really dislike. I've gone back and forth on my rating on Goodreads several times and I'm still not sure I'm settled. There are a lot of imbalances in character development and writing level that caused difficulty for me. Overall, however, it is a good effort from a first-time writer and definitely action packed!
Note: For all the parents out there that actually care about what their children read, please be advised about some of the content in The Path of the Sun. There are several very intense scenes depicting sexual intercourse, substance use, and violence (including an implied rape and cannibalism). It's probably a little much for younger readers.
November 15, 2014
Original review from Alternate Cover Edition for 9781481964579:
Seriously, you have to read this book! The descriptions of places and people alone make it worth the read. The characters are engaging and the way this author writes really gives you the sense that you know them. I. Can. See. Them. Their personality, faults, energy; so much so that you can practically see the choice they will make before they make it. Even characters that appeared for one or two scenes are as clear as day to me. The actual story is imaginative, interesting, emotional, fun, exciting, mysterious, logical, and surprising. What I loved the most was how clearly I could see everything. Even now, several weeks later I can bring a scene from the book to mind and see it in living color as clear as day. Wonderful! There have been times when I can't remember a story I read...within days or weeks of reading it. I thought it was my old-timers :) I can't wait to read more, more, more!
Thank you Kimberli Bindschatel !!
Update: 11/14/14 I can't believe it's been nearly a year! I can still remember and that's even more unbelievable. Patiently waiting... ;)
Seriously, you have to read this book! The descriptions of places and people alone make it worth the read. The characters are engaging and the way this author writes really gives you the sense that you know them. I. Can. See. Them. Their personality, faults, energy; so much so that you can practically see the choice they will make before they make it. Even characters that appeared for one or two scenes are as clear as day to me. The actual story is imaginative, interesting, emotional, fun, exciting, mysterious, logical, and surprising. What I loved the most was how clearly I could see everything. Even now, several weeks later I can bring a scene from the book to mind and see it in living color as clear as day. Wonderful! There have been times when I can't remember a story I read...within days or weeks of reading it. I thought it was my old-timers :) I can't wait to read more, more, more!
Thank you Kimberli Bindschatel !!
Update: 11/14/14 I can't believe it's been nearly a year! I can still remember and that's even more unbelievable. Patiently waiting... ;)
October 19, 2014
This was an interesting read. As many have said previously, it does have religion/faith but do not let that deter you because you may find it surprising. This is a book that, while religion/faith is included (and not any one particular religion), it's also about people (or groups of people) and how different (and dare I say same in some aspects?) their beliefs are. I would elaborate more but fear I'd give away spoilers so, stopping there. It definitely makes one think. The pace was fairly steady for the majority of the book, was only a time or two where I did find my mind wander a bit. This is not your average YA (or fantasy) read. I think older teens (adults may like it more in general) may enjoy it more due to the somewhat philosophical tone. There is also some slight sexual content. Not sure at this time if I'll continue this trilogy though. I am curious about Bria and Roh (who were my favorites) but there were times when I had a hard time liking Kiran. I didn't devour this one but, all in all, I liked it all right.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 17, 2013
Kiran, Roh, Bria, Jandon, Deke, Kail, and Bhau. Some characters are likable, others, well, are Deke. Ms. Bindschatel plunges us into the story with her main character, Kiran, about to take the plunge. Off a canyon. And starting there, it felt like the characters were no longer Ms. Bindschatel's but their own being. The characters drove the story, and their interactions caused progression. With every new setting, we knew what the character's were thinking, and that helped shape our own opinion. Which kind of seemed counter-intuitive, as the story is about Kiran finding who he is and to follow his own heart. The ending I felt was rushed, but as I thought about it, I realized another thing that the book did well: it kept the pace of the main character. When Kiran was feeling awe, a description of his surroundings was created. When he is in danger, it is very fast-paced and climactic. Altogether, the ending raised more questions for me then it answered, and I can not wait for the next book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 14, 2013
This coming of age story has many dimensions. A young orphaned, named Kiran, who was raised by a leader of their faith is sent on a quest to talk to "The Voice" with 6 other teenagers. On the way they encounter many challenges that range from physical to emotional. The question is, who is the voice and who will survive the great ordeal?
Young Kiran goes from a teenage to a young man on this voyage. He falls in love with his childhood sweetheart and has to make some very tough decision for the greater good of the tribe. He faces challenges that will create questions in his head about what he truly believes in and how far he will go even if he loses that faith.
I loved what the author has done with this book. The plot is ever evolving and full of action. There are parts of this book that totally surprise me and some that are as they should be. This book is written more in stage than chapters. As a reader you feel yourself rooting for Kiran the entire way.
Young Kiran goes from a teenage to a young man on this voyage. He falls in love with his childhood sweetheart and has to make some very tough decision for the greater good of the tribe. He faces challenges that will create questions in his head about what he truly believes in and how far he will go even if he loses that faith.
I loved what the author has done with this book. The plot is ever evolving and full of action. There are parts of this book that totally surprise me and some that are as they should be. This book is written more in stage than chapters. As a reader you feel yourself rooting for Kiran the entire way.
December 27, 2014
First the business, I received a free copy of the book after I entered a Goodreads drawing. I was prejudiced by the fact that one of the main characters shares a name with my daughter.
This book paints some really great scenery. I felt a part of the group, in the world walking with the band of adventures, and personally experiencing the wonders for myself.
The book starts out with seven adventures chosen to go on a quest. It was pretty typical quest fantasy stuff. As the book progresses the quest fantasy road map is left behind.
Religion is the main theme of the book. Kiran’s quest to find God’s voice and his doubts is similar to what many people of faith go through. Many of the faiths explored in the book are recognizable (as are the geographic locations featured in the book.
The book defiantly has some dark parts and may not be for everyone. It was a good book for me and I enjoyed it very much.
This book paints some really great scenery. I felt a part of the group, in the world walking with the band of adventures, and personally experiencing the wonders for myself.
The book starts out with seven adventures chosen to go on a quest. It was pretty typical quest fantasy stuff. As the book progresses the quest fantasy road map is left behind.
Religion is the main theme of the book. Kiran’s quest to find God’s voice and his doubts is similar to what many people of faith go through. Many of the faiths explored in the book are recognizable (as are the geographic locations featured in the book.
The book defiantly has some dark parts and may not be for everyone. It was a good book for me and I enjoyed it very much.
November 23, 2013
The Path of the Sun by Kimberli A Bindsechel
I like this book right from the beginning and could not stop reading til I finished. I had to see all the encounters these 7 young people would find and who
would return to the village if any.
Very interesting and shocking ending. Seven young people 5 boys and 2 girls are sent on a quest by the six elders of there village to find the Voice of the
Father and the 7th elder so that there crops will grow and rain will fall before they starve. The quest has them in all kinds of danger and encounters of strange
people some helpful and some dangerious. They only know to follow the setting sun and they will find the Voice. One is so shocked that after following the
setting sun is found themself righ back where he started.
I like this book right from the beginning and could not stop reading til I finished. I had to see all the encounters these 7 young people would find and who
would return to the village if any.
Very interesting and shocking ending. Seven young people 5 boys and 2 girls are sent on a quest by the six elders of there village to find the Voice of the
Father and the 7th elder so that there crops will grow and rain will fall before they starve. The quest has them in all kinds of danger and encounters of strange
people some helpful and some dangerious. They only know to follow the setting sun and they will find the Voice. One is so shocked that after following the
setting sun is found themself righ back where he started.
January 31, 2014
I was fortunate that kimberli had gave me the opportunity to read her work I really enjoyed the story even though I have not read the full trilogy I have read the first book and find the story is very interesting. I would like to finish the other 2 stories that follow the first book as I think the story has so much power in it. now I will explain my ratings at first I found the book hard to understand and as a person who reviews books if I have not caught on to the story by the 20th page I will usually drop one star but by page 35 the story was so interesting that I had to finish it I would totally recommend this book to any person kimberli I am sorry it took me a while but I have been sick and couldn't get back to you sooner but I would love to continue to read the full trilogy
August 29, 2014
It took me a few starts to get into the story. I am not usually one for YA fantasy adventures but gave it a try anyway. Around the fourth or fifth chapter I got hooked on the journey and was curious to how it would turn out. The action was intense and constant but felt the tone a bit preachy and never really felt surprised at the outcomes. I felt Roh would have been an interesting hero choice and liked his story. I did like the ending but again expected it to come about in that way. The scenes were detailed and cultures were very recognizable and familiar. There were hidden gems of incidental wisdom and phrases that leaped out at me. For me those were the best parts!
August 26, 2013
Parts of it were slow and other parts faster.
The book shows that there are truths and falsehoods in most every religion. It also brought out the circular theme through the round earth.
I liked it although I wish more of the characters had made it back. I wanted to know more about the future of other characters as well as Kiran.
I was given the ebook free by the author in exchange for my review.
[The star rating coincides with the Goodreads rating system. It may be different for other places.]
The book shows that there are truths and falsehoods in most every religion. It also brought out the circular theme through the round earth.
I liked it although I wish more of the characters had made it back. I wanted to know more about the future of other characters as well as Kiran.
I was given the ebook free by the author in exchange for my review.
[The star rating coincides with the Goodreads rating system. It may be different for other places.]
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 11, 2014
Truly a journey, not just a physical one but more importantly a journey of spirit. The tale of us all, the search for who we are. That's how I would describe this book. The idea that we all have individual destinies, not all will follow the same route but each one is just as valid as the next. That is one of many things I think people will take away from this book. The storytelling will keep you turning pages as the story unfolds in surprising ways, a book for all ages young and old. Highly recommend it.
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