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The Direction
Book One in The Direction, a complete Christian Dystopian Series
Devastated by a massive depletion in earth's population in the 21st and 22nd centuries, society crumbles and governments fall apart. That's when an NGO called The Direction steps in to save humanity. With DNA analyses they have selected the best subjects for re-population, and in the early 23rd century The Direction controls small communities in what was once known as Colorado. With the help of APA, an artificial intelligence governing system, diet and lifestyle habits are monitored, printed material has been eliminated, connections to any society remaining in other countries has been severed, and religion has been banned.
With no one to marry, 25 year old Lila Collins is about to lose her place in her community as she is scheduled to be relocated to a surrogacy facility. Meanwhile, Major Don Bachman is a highly decorated officer in The Direction’s Defense Industry, but when he sees the transfer orders for Lila, he decides to risk his position to save her.
Bitter about the loss of her dad and her friends who went against The Direction and embraced Christianity, Lila struggles with anger toward God as she escapes her fate with Don and joins a team of rebel soldiers as their combat medic. Guided by their confident, prayerful leader, they have one Bring down The Direction.
Can they uncover and interrupt The Direction's insidious plans? Can Lila and the team navigate through devastating losses, crippling fear, and an evil organization hellbent on killing them all, to discover God's will and find peace and love in a dystopian world?
Can they find their direction?
Devastated by a massive depletion in earth's population in the 21st and 22nd centuries, society crumbles and governments fall apart. That's when an NGO called The Direction steps in to save humanity. With DNA analyses they have selected the best subjects for re-population, and in the early 23rd century The Direction controls small communities in what was once known as Colorado. With the help of APA, an artificial intelligence governing system, diet and lifestyle habits are monitored, printed material has been eliminated, connections to any society remaining in other countries has been severed, and religion has been banned.
With no one to marry, 25 year old Lila Collins is about to lose her place in her community as she is scheduled to be relocated to a surrogacy facility. Meanwhile, Major Don Bachman is a highly decorated officer in The Direction’s Defense Industry, but when he sees the transfer orders for Lila, he decides to risk his position to save her.
Bitter about the loss of her dad and her friends who went against The Direction and embraced Christianity, Lila struggles with anger toward God as she escapes her fate with Don and joins a team of rebel soldiers as their combat medic. Guided by their confident, prayerful leader, they have one Bring down The Direction.
Can they uncover and interrupt The Direction's insidious plans? Can Lila and the team navigate through devastating losses, crippling fear, and an evil organization hellbent on killing them all, to discover God's will and find peace and love in a dystopian world?
Can they find their direction?
402 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 21, 2024
About the author
Elisabeth Nadler
15 books28 followersElisabeth is an award winning author who lives off-grid in rural western South Dakota as a stay-at-home wife and a mom of four home-schooled children. In her spare time, she loves writing books that have God, action, adventure, spiritual warfare, and characters that struggle at times but always find faith!
She also loves to design her own book covers, proof read with her daughter, and make her husband lose an entire day reading one of her books.
She also loves to design her own book covers, proof read with her daughter, and make her husband lose an entire day reading one of her books.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
July 23, 2026
UPDATE BELOW ORIGINAL.
(Kindle) I genuinely enjoyed this dystopian story. It reminds us to pray fervently and trust in God's plan. I appreciate how true to reality it is - making known that vaccines contain aborted fetal cells and can cause a lot of harm to a body, including miscarriage and mutated genetics. Bold move by the author, well done. There were a few minor things that didn't make sense -- the story mentions that fewer and fewer men were being born, thanks to fragile Y chromosome... yet, the books characters are predominantly male. There seemed to be no shortage of men throughout the story, so why bring up the lack of them at all? A warning? I was also confused by 2 things during Lila's mission to gather info. She says she dropped the chip in a planter near the elevator so she wouldn't have it on her person when she is checked. But she never goes back for it - yet still hands it over to the team. Also during said body check, they conveniently forget to check her back pocket - leaving her with the metal cross. Apparently she could have just stuck the chip in her pocket and they wouldn't have found it!?!
This last critique is for the virtual voice reader - it was awful. As always. And I wish author's would not allow their books to be read by A.I. Record it yourselves, authors, you won't regret it. I would love to just READ all the books but I am a busy woman and audiobooks are my best bet for being able to "read" while still cooking, cleaning, and chauffeuring my family around. The virtual voice is so bad though...it doesn't have different tones for different characters. It doesn't understand how punctuation changes pronunciation. If you have the time to sit and read - read this book!!
📚*****UPDATE upon re-read 10 months later: (Audible) First, I need to thank the author again for taking my advice to heart and reading her own works, and then gifting me the books on Audible! I don't think any author has cared about my opinions before, so it was a humbling and exciting experience for me.
Now, something I have gotten in the habit of doing, (because I wish other reviewers would warn me! 😆) is mention the writing style. Every good book worm has a preference! The Direction takes on two. We have 1st person writing from our FMC's perspective, then 3rd person limited with the MMC; Interchanging throughout the book. I have never read another book like it. On the pro side, it keeps us connected to the protagonist while also gaining mild insight into her male counterpart. I didn't feel like *I* was both main characters during the story. Just her. The only down side wasn't really a "con" per se, it was just somewhat unsettling flip-flopping, only because, as I said, I haven't read anything else like it. Overall, I think I like it and am excited for the next book. Another thing I mention in my reviews is steam levels and language. There is zero "steam" or "open bedroom" because it's a Christian book, and I appreciate that. The romance is built on a life long connection, friendship, spiritual intimacy, and probably a fair amount of trauma bonding. The book definitely contains violence and action! Which keep it exciting! I was honestly a bit surprised that the language wasn't completely clean. It wasn't BAD, just a few well placed "sh*t"s. While sh*t happens and didn't bother ME - it is something to note for parents and teachers considering sharing the book with our youth. My homeschool co-op occasionally does a book club style semester, and would need to know that when deciding if it were appropriate.
I am going to stick with my 4 star rating. I always say that my 5-star criteria is "make me laugh, make me cry, make me think". I remembered this book really well from the first time I read it, so I can say it made me think. (Sometimes I enjoy a book, but a few weeks later can't remember much of anything about it!) This one sat with me for months ...and probably will for years. A dystopian that isn't entirely impossible or outlandish. I feel like the author truly considered what the future could become if we keep experimenting/playing God with MRNA and other vaccines and we continue to hand over our rights to privacy, in the name of "safety" to A.I. A cautionary tale that few will heed.
However, I never found myself laughing out loud or emotionally touched to tears. And I'm a pretty sensitive soul! 🥺 I think something that could have given it that extra oomph would have been personal prayer. The prayers our MC's say are either a simple 'Lord, help me", "Lord, protect her', or are directly from the Bible (The Lord's Prayer). I appreciate the frequently mentioned verses, but I think a more personal, heartfelt, meaningful plea to the Father would have brought on some tears. And of course laughter would have to come from a goofball character. Not an annoying JarJar Binks, but just someone that makes light of heavy situations and deals with stress by cracking jokes! As much as I enjoyed the story, the two MCs are a bit boring, I'd have liked to see some playfulness between them - or maybe even a humorous side to Kain that endears him to others, making his betrayal more painful.
Despite my critiques, I did enjoy the book and am going to listen to the next one, Finding Fortitude, right now!!
(Kindle) I genuinely enjoyed this dystopian story. It reminds us to pray fervently and trust in God's plan. I appreciate how true to reality it is - making known that vaccines contain aborted fetal cells and can cause a lot of harm to a body, including miscarriage and mutated genetics. Bold move by the author, well done. There were a few minor things that didn't make sense -- the story mentions that fewer and fewer men were being born, thanks to fragile Y chromosome... yet, the books characters are predominantly male. There seemed to be no shortage of men throughout the story, so why bring up the lack of them at all? A warning? I was also confused by 2 things during Lila's mission to gather info. She says she dropped the chip in a planter near the elevator so she wouldn't have it on her person when she is checked. But she never goes back for it - yet still hands it over to the team. Also during said body check, they conveniently forget to check her back pocket - leaving her with the metal cross. Apparently she could have just stuck the chip in her pocket and they wouldn't have found it!?!
This last critique is for the virtual voice reader - it was awful. As always. And I wish author's would not allow their books to be read by A.I. Record it yourselves, authors, you won't regret it. I would love to just READ all the books but I am a busy woman and audiobooks are my best bet for being able to "read" while still cooking, cleaning, and chauffeuring my family around. The virtual voice is so bad though...it doesn't have different tones for different characters. It doesn't understand how punctuation changes pronunciation. If you have the time to sit and read - read this book!!
📚*****UPDATE upon re-read 10 months later: (Audible) First, I need to thank the author again for taking my advice to heart and reading her own works, and then gifting me the books on Audible! I don't think any author has cared about my opinions before, so it was a humbling and exciting experience for me.
Now, something I have gotten in the habit of doing, (because I wish other reviewers would warn me! 😆) is mention the writing style. Every good book worm has a preference! The Direction takes on two. We have 1st person writing from our FMC's perspective, then 3rd person limited with the MMC; Interchanging throughout the book. I have never read another book like it. On the pro side, it keeps us connected to the protagonist while also gaining mild insight into her male counterpart. I didn't feel like *I* was both main characters during the story. Just her. The only down side wasn't really a "con" per se, it was just somewhat unsettling flip-flopping, only because, as I said, I haven't read anything else like it. Overall, I think I like it and am excited for the next book. Another thing I mention in my reviews is steam levels and language. There is zero "steam" or "open bedroom" because it's a Christian book, and I appreciate that. The romance is built on a life long connection, friendship, spiritual intimacy, and probably a fair amount of trauma bonding. The book definitely contains violence and action! Which keep it exciting! I was honestly a bit surprised that the language wasn't completely clean. It wasn't BAD, just a few well placed "sh*t"s. While sh*t happens and didn't bother ME - it is something to note for parents and teachers considering sharing the book with our youth. My homeschool co-op occasionally does a book club style semester, and would need to know that when deciding if it were appropriate.
I am going to stick with my 4 star rating. I always say that my 5-star criteria is "make me laugh, make me cry, make me think". I remembered this book really well from the first time I read it, so I can say it made me think. (Sometimes I enjoy a book, but a few weeks later can't remember much of anything about it!) This one sat with me for months ...and probably will for years. A dystopian that isn't entirely impossible or outlandish. I feel like the author truly considered what the future could become if we keep experimenting/playing God with MRNA and other vaccines and we continue to hand over our rights to privacy, in the name of "safety" to A.I. A cautionary tale that few will heed.
However, I never found myself laughing out loud or emotionally touched to tears. And I'm a pretty sensitive soul! 🥺 I think something that could have given it that extra oomph would have been personal prayer. The prayers our MC's say are either a simple 'Lord, help me", "Lord, protect her', or are directly from the Bible (The Lord's Prayer). I appreciate the frequently mentioned verses, but I think a more personal, heartfelt, meaningful plea to the Father would have brought on some tears. And of course laughter would have to come from a goofball character. Not an annoying JarJar Binks, but just someone that makes light of heavy situations and deals with stress by cracking jokes! As much as I enjoyed the story, the two MCs are a bit boring, I'd have liked to see some playfulness between them - or maybe even a humorous side to Kain that endears him to others, making his betrayal more painful.
Despite my critiques, I did enjoy the book and am going to listen to the next one, Finding Fortitude, right now!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 3, 2026
really liked this faith based adventure !
Great story. This is the second series I’ve started from this author (the other was military based), and I found this story more engrossing and loved the faith representation.
These people struggle and deal with a lot, but through their trials God builds them up and uses them for great things.
I will definitely read the rest of the series.
Great story. This is the second series I’ve started from this author (the other was military based), and I found this story more engrossing and loved the faith representation.
These people struggle and deal with a lot, but through their trials God builds them up and uses them for great things.
I will definitely read the rest of the series.
October 20, 2025
Great Read
I think teens and adults would enjoy this book. It fits the dystopian fiction genre and has strong Christian themes. The characters have flaws and are building their relationships with each other and God throughout. It is fast paced with lots of action.
I think teens and adults would enjoy this book. It fits the dystopian fiction genre and has strong Christian themes. The characters have flaws and are building their relationships with each other and God throughout. It is fast paced with lots of action.
April 16, 2026
A different twist on The Hunger Games
Minimal profanity, the characters are imperfect, just like we are! But if you liked The Hunger Games, I think you will like this!
Minimal profanity, the characters are imperfect, just like we are! But if you liked The Hunger Games, I think you will like this!
June 16, 2026
Just the right amount of everything involved from drama and action to suspense and emotion. Thoroughly enjoyed the faith component with a perfect amount of edge to it.
June 29, 2026
Ahh! This book was so good!
I absolutely LOVE christian dystopian/christian romance and this book was no exception. I can NOT wait to read the next one!!!!!
I absolutely LOVE christian dystopian/christian romance and this book was no exception. I can NOT wait to read the next one!!!!!
July 15, 2026
the direction
Loved it , can’t wait to read the next one. Action suspense and of course God woven through it all .
Loved it , can’t wait to read the next one. Action suspense and of course God woven through it all .
January 19, 2026
A good Dystopian novel
I love the idea of this book it had a good story line it was just a little slow for me but I really enjoyed it!
I love the idea of this book it had a good story line it was just a little slow for me but I really enjoyed it!
April 25, 2026
great book
Held me spellbound. If you liked the Hungar Games you’ll love this. Well written characters and plot. I couldn’t put it down.
Held me spellbound. If you liked the Hungar Games you’ll love this. Well written characters and plot. I couldn’t put it down.
March 26, 2026
Different than exy
I enjoy Christian dystopian books, but they tend to have mostly the same story. Not The Direction. Off to the second in the series. See you there
I enjoy Christian dystopian books, but they tend to have mostly the same story. Not The Direction. Off to the second in the series. See you there
May 9, 2026
I love this book!
Content warning, this book isn't for everyone, but I'll leave that for the end.*
I love how the Christian characters were gentle but didn't shy away from making sure a bible was available to Lila when she was mad at God. At one point, Jax follows God's guidance and gives Lila an item that he's not sure she'll take, she does because he asked. And it's really good that she did!!! (I'm trying to be vague so as not to give away spoilers.)
Anyway...this story is powerful, inspiring readers to take a fresh look at the Bible and have faith in God, who loves us, and has good plans for us. Even though we suffer for a time in this sin filled world, He is our helper.
This book shows God wants a relationship with us. ❤️✝️❤️
Oh and I love Yetti! 🐶
And the ending...I was crying by the end, but in a good way. 🥰
*Warning: there are some swear words such as d***it, sh**, what the h***. I understand that characters have faults. And having a character swear can make the struggle relatable for some people. I'm not one of them. I never was one who tended to swear, more often having the opposit problem of over thinking my words to the point of not saying anything when I should have. God's working on me. I don't usually like my books to have swear words in them because it can distance me from the characters. But it didn't pull me out of the story this time, and barely bothered me at all. Other potentially sensitive elements include, descriptions of wounds, a character gets tortured, and they may have to deal with PTSD afterwards.
If that doesn't stop you, I highly recommend this book!
I really believe we need stories that show how even in the dark, in the midst of scary things, God still holds us in His hands. He's so much bigger than our situation, and our struggles!!!
I'm really looking forward to reading book 2! ❤️
Content warning, this book isn't for everyone, but I'll leave that for the end.*
I love how the Christian characters were gentle but didn't shy away from making sure a bible was available to Lila when she was mad at God. At one point, Jax follows God's guidance and gives Lila an item that he's not sure she'll take, she does because he asked. And it's really good that she did!!! (I'm trying to be vague so as not to give away spoilers.)
Anyway...this story is powerful, inspiring readers to take a fresh look at the Bible and have faith in God, who loves us, and has good plans for us. Even though we suffer for a time in this sin filled world, He is our helper.
This book shows God wants a relationship with us. ❤️✝️❤️
Oh and I love Yetti! 🐶
And the ending...I was crying by the end, but in a good way. 🥰
*Warning: there are some swear words such as d***it, sh**, what the h***. I understand that characters have faults. And having a character swear can make the struggle relatable for some people. I'm not one of them. I never was one who tended to swear, more often having the opposit problem of over thinking my words to the point of not saying anything when I should have. God's working on me. I don't usually like my books to have swear words in them because it can distance me from the characters. But it didn't pull me out of the story this time, and barely bothered me at all. Other potentially sensitive elements include, descriptions of wounds, a character gets tortured, and they may have to deal with PTSD afterwards.
If that doesn't stop you, I highly recommend this book!
I really believe we need stories that show how even in the dark, in the midst of scary things, God still holds us in His hands. He's so much bigger than our situation, and our struggles!!!
I'm really looking forward to reading book 2! ❤️
March 2, 2026
Rating : ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Spice lvl: only kissing
Likes: Christian themes, dystopian, forced proximity, war elements/action, initmacy > lust
Dislikes: not great world building or character development, VERY slow moving between scenes
Spice lvl: only kissing
Likes: Christian themes, dystopian, forced proximity, war elements/action, initmacy > lust
Dislikes: not great world building or character development, VERY slow moving between scenes
January 12, 2026
Book was good, but wish there was more build up of the romance through out the book. I did love the whispered conversations between characters and God though. However, when I finished, I had no desire to read the next book. 😬
July 26, 2026
Why the language?
The would have been a great book without the foul language. I really wanted to like it but as a Christian I don't see how you justify putting words that God clearly tells us in His Word to refrain from using. The English vocabulary is enormous but get you chose filth that dishonors God to try to bring others to God. Very confusing and hypocritical to say the least.
The would have been a great book without the foul language. I really wanted to like it but as a Christian I don't see how you justify putting words that God clearly tells us in His Word to refrain from using. The English vocabulary is enormous but get you chose filth that dishonors God to try to bring others to God. Very confusing and hypocritical to say the least.
November 10, 2025
I wanted to love it
The story plot sounded great, but I found it hard to sink into the story. I liked the characters but felt some fluidity was missing.
The story plot sounded great, but I found it hard to sink into the story. I liked the characters but felt some fluidity was missing.
July 13, 2026
Pretty good. I was hoping for a little more world-building. But I enjoyed the characters and the story and the incorporation of God.
September 3, 2025
I really wanted to enjoy this, but it’s hard to get past the abundant syntax errors. 🙁
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews