Halfway to Eden

by Michael Bucci

Jason, a twenty-three-year-old recent college graduate is living a comfortable yet mundane life when he is suddenly thrust into a new exciting world where he is forced to sink or swim. Through mysterious signs, Jason is led to Thailand accompanied by his best friend Tyler. Their trip takes an even more unexpected turn when Jason learns that he is destined to seek out a spiritual utopia called Arhat. Most consider this place a myth, but only a few know of its true existence, and only the chosen will ever reach it. What began as a simple graduation trip soon became a journey far bigger than Jason imagined.

After he is given the coordinates, he takes a leap of faith to locate Arhat in hopes of finding a cure for his sick grandmother while Tyler has ulterior motives.

Throughout Jason’s journey, he is challenged to push past his insecurities and fears in search of a place far different from his superficial world back home, one he longed to escape.

Does Jason have what it takes to reach Arhat? Or will he succumb to his own self-doubt?

This is a story about personal growth, friendship, and love.

276 pages, Paperback

Published November 20, 2025

Reviews

[Ed Forsthoffer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great beach read and makes me want to visit Thailand!

This author is obviously well traveled, and he uses his experiences to make you feel like you're actually visiting the places he is describing. It is hard to put this book into a single genre because it fits into so many. It is parts coming of age, adventure, fantasy, and inspiring. I love the short chapters so that on vacation you can stop if something comes, up and then pick up where you left off. A great inaugural book from this author!

[Steph · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a wild ride this story is! I am fortunate to know the author and could not be more proud that he published his first novel! Hoping it becomes a feature film. This story was made for the big screen!