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Path of Totality
2023 Selah Award Winner in First Novel
2023 Selah Award Finalist in YA Fiction
World War III has erupted on American soil. Seventeen-year-old Jadzia’s life will never be the same again.
As a mandatory draft takes effect, Jadzia finds herself on the front lines of the war, torn apart from her family. But when her best friend is killed, Jadzia is desperate to find her way back to them. She abandons her platoon and sets out on her own.
Jadzia must navigate a dangerous cross-country journey, facing betrayal, violence, and the constant threat of death. Along the way, she meets Ryker–the son of a faith leader whose places of worship have been attacked. Despite the chaos, Jadzia finds refuge and friendship among Ryker’s unlikely group of individuals … even though their faith is a little old-fashioned. And Ryker's insistence on helping her doesn't make it easier for Jadzia to resist her growing feelings toward him.
But the military is determined to capture Jadzia and all outlaws. When survival seems impossible, will sacrifice be their only route to freedom?
This action-packed YA dystopian novel is perfect for fans of The Out of Time Series and The Gifting Series.
2023 Selah Award Finalist in YA Fiction
World War III has erupted on American soil. Seventeen-year-old Jadzia’s life will never be the same again.
As a mandatory draft takes effect, Jadzia finds herself on the front lines of the war, torn apart from her family. But when her best friend is killed, Jadzia is desperate to find her way back to them. She abandons her platoon and sets out on her own.
Jadzia must navigate a dangerous cross-country journey, facing betrayal, violence, and the constant threat of death. Along the way, she meets Ryker–the son of a faith leader whose places of worship have been attacked. Despite the chaos, Jadzia finds refuge and friendship among Ryker’s unlikely group of individuals … even though their faith is a little old-fashioned. And Ryker's insistence on helping her doesn't make it easier for Jadzia to resist her growing feelings toward him.
But the military is determined to capture Jadzia and all outlaws. When survival seems impossible, will sacrifice be their only route to freedom?
This action-packed YA dystopian novel is perfect for fans of The Out of Time Series and The Gifting Series.
- GenresScience FictionDystopia
346 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 8, 2022
28 people are currently reading
113 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
November 8, 2022
Heather Kreke's debut novel, Path of Totality, hooks readers from page one and takes them on an adventurous journey as Jadzia, our heroine, fights to get back to her family after WWIII strikes. The futuristic touches are plausible and add a fun, unique perspective to the story. You don't want to miss out on this one!
October 30, 2022
I haven’t read a book like this in years. It’s crazy and scary all at the same time. How does one survive WW3? How do you survive without faith? How do you keep your faith when the war is about you?
Jadzia struggles to work through all she has been through before and during the war. Her search for peace and forgiveness isn’t what she thought she needed but Ryker shows her what she is missing.
Heather has written an amazing book. The story is well put together and the characters draw you to them. You will be screaming for more when you finish this book.
Jadzia struggles to work through all she has been through before and during the war. Her search for peace and forgiveness isn’t what she thought she needed but Ryker shows her what she is missing.
Heather has written an amazing book. The story is well put together and the characters draw you to them. You will be screaming for more when you finish this book.
December 10, 2022
First off, Heather is my niece and I'm really proud of her.
I will try to not let my bias affect this review: I don't read a lot of young adult dystopic novels. I thought this book was well-written and I found myself pulled into the plot line. I rate this book a 3.5, rounding up because a) it is well-written b) this is the author's debut novel and c) I am interested in finding out what happens in the next book. I suspect the mother is more than she seems.
Since it isn't mentioned in the Goodreads description, this is actually a Christian, young adult, dystopic novel.
Nice Job, Heather!
I will try to not let my bias affect this review: I don't read a lot of young adult dystopic novels. I thought this book was well-written and I found myself pulled into the plot line. I rate this book a 3.5, rounding up because a) it is well-written b) this is the author's debut novel and c) I am interested in finding out what happens in the next book. I suspect the mother is more than she seems.
Since it isn't mentioned in the Goodreads description, this is actually a Christian, young adult, dystopic novel.
Nice Job, Heather!
December 30, 2023
This story gave me major 5th Wave vibes without the alien ivasion, of course. This book begins with major cities being bombed, which creates the start of WW3. A draft is put in place, and Jadzia has to enlist. Unfortunate events happen, and she finds herself running from it all the get to her family.
I enjoyed this book! It's not something I normally read, but the main character was relatable, and being married into a military family myself, I really feel for Jadzia. Some spots I just wanted to reach in and hug her. Ryker, the other POV, doesn't get involved until after the first half of the book, though his character was strong and comforting.
I think some of the scenes could have been cut shorter, but overall, it was an easy read for me. I didn't feel too much for the romance in here, though they were also trying to survive, so I think they have bigger problems than finding and romancing a significant other. The ending leaves a possible opening for a second book, and I'm eager to find out what happens to both of these characters!
I enjoyed this book! It's not something I normally read, but the main character was relatable, and being married into a military family myself, I really feel for Jadzia. Some spots I just wanted to reach in and hug her. Ryker, the other POV, doesn't get involved until after the first half of the book, though his character was strong and comforting.
I think some of the scenes could have been cut shorter, but overall, it was an easy read for me. I didn't feel too much for the romance in here, though they were also trying to survive, so I think they have bigger problems than finding and romancing a significant other. The ending leaves a possible opening for a second book, and I'm eager to find out what happens to both of these characters!
November 8, 2022
Maybe I'm biased, but I do love reading dystopian novels. Heather Kreke's Path of Totality didn't disappoint. Unlike other novels in this genre, the author doesn't evoke a nuclear attack or an EMP. Her story addresses a war and the viewpoints of a teenage girl who is drafted, along with her friends, to fight the Zealots on American soil. The technology and weaponry Kreke describes are completely believable. Frankly, I wouldn't be surprised if they weren't in development now! If you want a page turner, this is the book for you. Also worth noting is that this novel is appropriate for all ages—young adult to granny. Don't miss out on this one.
July 27, 2023
Path of Totality starts with a bang! Author Heather Kreke’s freshman entry provides strong first-person point of view from the main character Jadzia. There is quick progression throughout the storyline, which makes it enjoyable. The action slows for the briefest of moments before sweeping readers away again.
Readers will empathize with the loss of Jadzia’s father, being drafted into the military, and having to leave her family. Kreke provides an easy entry into the future of our world - a believable and authentic feeling novel.
World War III covers every inch of American soil, and seventeen-year-old Jadzia's life will never be the same again.
Jadzia is drafted and finds herself on the front lines of the war, torn away from her family. When her best friend is killed, she is desperate to find her way back home. She abandons her platoon and sets out on her own.
Jadzia navigates a dangerous cross-country journey, faces betrayal, violence, and the constant threat of death. Eventually, she meets Ryker, and finds refuge with his unlikely group of individuals ... even though their faith is a little old-fashioned. Ryker insists on helping her which makes it hard for Jadzia to resist her growing feelings toward him.
The military is determined to find and capture Jadzia. When survival seems impossible, will sacrifice be their only route to freedom?
While there is constant action, it takes a little while to get into the story. The time spent in boot camp, building Jadzia’s relationship with Brent, may have been shortened. The purpose for this character relationship development is clear when revealed. Kreke has done well in that regard, and accomplished building empathy, but it takes a while.
Readers may be reminded of the classic novel ‘Red Badge of Courage, when Jadzia flees the war front. The main character’s breakdown of emotion, psychology, and physical well-being are the main focus of the early novel. She faces plenty of stresses and difficulties - but for what purpose? What is she learning in order to succeed at her journey?
Jadzia’s trek all the way home is met with the realization that she must travel even further to reunite with family. All the while, the military is right on her heels trying to bring her back to the front lines to fight a war she never wanted to be a part of in the first place.
The novel is an enjoyable, and believable post-apocalyptic tale. It is a cross-country journey to a new home, and what it takes to become a new person along the way. Kreke wields first person point of view well. The reader knows information and details about locations that matter to the main character which makes the telling feel real and believable.
The audiobook version was enjoyed for this review. The narrator does a great job with multiple voices, good pacing, and clarity. A few times the narrator’s outbursts erupted through the speakers to rattle eardrums - but she manages to cover emotion well through her tone and emphasis.
The main character swears like sailor throughout the story, without saying a single curse word. This aspect of her character was handled well, and will be appreciated by readers who don’t enjoy being cursed at.
Without spoiling the end, most readers may be left asking if this really is the end of Jadzias story!
Heather Kreke is a young adult dystopian fiction author, the blog manager for Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference, and a Coordinator for Blue Ridge Readers Connection.
In her spare time, she teaches writing classes at her church, writes for numerous blogs, and has completed coursework through the former Christian Writers Guild. Married since 2004, Heather has three daughters and 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 knew being a writer was her plan since the 4th grade. Heather always made up stories and talked to the characters in her head. However, when it came to sitting down and writing, she seriously doubted her abilities. Through faith and the support of friends and family, Heather found the strength to pursue her writing dreams.
Readers will empathize with the loss of Jadzia’s father, being drafted into the military, and having to leave her family. Kreke provides an easy entry into the future of our world - a believable and authentic feeling novel.
World War III covers every inch of American soil, and seventeen-year-old Jadzia's life will never be the same again.
Jadzia is drafted and finds herself on the front lines of the war, torn away from her family. When her best friend is killed, she is desperate to find her way back home. She abandons her platoon and sets out on her own.
Jadzia navigates a dangerous cross-country journey, faces betrayal, violence, and the constant threat of death. Eventually, she meets Ryker, and finds refuge with his unlikely group of individuals ... even though their faith is a little old-fashioned. Ryker insists on helping her which makes it hard for Jadzia to resist her growing feelings toward him.
The military is determined to find and capture Jadzia. When survival seems impossible, will sacrifice be their only route to freedom?
While there is constant action, it takes a little while to get into the story. The time spent in boot camp, building Jadzia’s relationship with Brent, may have been shortened. The purpose for this character relationship development is clear when revealed. Kreke has done well in that regard, and accomplished building empathy, but it takes a while.
Readers may be reminded of the classic novel ‘Red Badge of Courage, when Jadzia flees the war front. The main character’s breakdown of emotion, psychology, and physical well-being are the main focus of the early novel. She faces plenty of stresses and difficulties - but for what purpose? What is she learning in order to succeed at her journey?
Jadzia’s trek all the way home is met with the realization that she must travel even further to reunite with family. All the while, the military is right on her heels trying to bring her back to the front lines to fight a war she never wanted to be a part of in the first place.
The novel is an enjoyable, and believable post-apocalyptic tale. It is a cross-country journey to a new home, and what it takes to become a new person along the way. Kreke wields first person point of view well. The reader knows information and details about locations that matter to the main character which makes the telling feel real and believable.
The audiobook version was enjoyed for this review. The narrator does a great job with multiple voices, good pacing, and clarity. A few times the narrator’s outbursts erupted through the speakers to rattle eardrums - but she manages to cover emotion well through her tone and emphasis.
The main character swears like sailor throughout the story, without saying a single curse word. This aspect of her character was handled well, and will be appreciated by readers who don’t enjoy being cursed at.
Without spoiling the end, most readers may be left asking if this really is the end of Jadzias story!
Heather Kreke is a young adult dystopian fiction author, the blog manager for Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference, and a Coordinator for Blue Ridge Readers Connection.
In her spare time, she teaches writing classes at her church, writes for numerous blogs, and has completed coursework through the former Christian Writers Guild. Married since 2004, Heather has three daughters and 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 knew being a writer was her plan since the 4th grade. Heather always made up stories and talked to the characters in her head. However, when it came to sitting down and writing, she seriously doubted her abilities. Through faith and the support of friends and family, Heather found the strength to pursue her writing dreams.
November 20, 2022
Path of Totality
By
Heather Kreke
Rating:5/5
Description:
Jadzia Mills never wanted to become a killer, but when World War III comes to American soil, Jadzia is torn from her family. Forced to join the military, she fights alongside her best friend. When he is killed by a Zealot, Jadzia disappears to reunite with her mother and brother.Alone, she embarks on a perilous cross-country journey trying to stay ahead of those desperately trying to find her.Help comes in an unexpected way when she meets Ryker and his group of survivors. When Ryker insists upon helping her, Jadzia’s mixed feelings toward him only complicate her goals.
Can they work together despite the odds between them when sacrifice seems the only way to survive?
Review:
👉Talking about the title of the book, the title of the book is really so interesting to read.
👉The cover is appealing and attractive as well.Writing style is appreciable .Jadzia, a 17-year-old schoolgirl is forced to join the army when the United States is attacked, starting WWIII. After boot camp Jadzia is shipped off to New York where she encounters the enemy for the first time. When her friend is killed in action, Jadzia runs and becomes the hunted. She makes it back home, but finds her mother & brother gone and she needs to find them. Alone and scared, she begins her search to find them in a war-torn United States, trying to avoid the military and the enemy.
👉For complete read do order the book on @amazondotcom
For book link:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0BKCF...
👉This novel grabbed my attention from the first chapter. If you like action, thrillers and/or dystopian novels, you’ll enjoy Path of Totality.
Wow! What a book! I am in love with the book
👉I just loved reading the book ...
Happy reading!
By
Heather Kreke
Rating:5/5
Description:
Jadzia Mills never wanted to become a killer, but when World War III comes to American soil, Jadzia is torn from her family. Forced to join the military, she fights alongside her best friend. When he is killed by a Zealot, Jadzia disappears to reunite with her mother and brother.Alone, she embarks on a perilous cross-country journey trying to stay ahead of those desperately trying to find her.Help comes in an unexpected way when she meets Ryker and his group of survivors. When Ryker insists upon helping her, Jadzia’s mixed feelings toward him only complicate her goals.
Can they work together despite the odds between them when sacrifice seems the only way to survive?
Review:
👉Talking about the title of the book, the title of the book is really so interesting to read.
👉The cover is appealing and attractive as well.Writing style is appreciable .Jadzia, a 17-year-old schoolgirl is forced to join the army when the United States is attacked, starting WWIII. After boot camp Jadzia is shipped off to New York where she encounters the enemy for the first time. When her friend is killed in action, Jadzia runs and becomes the hunted. She makes it back home, but finds her mother & brother gone and she needs to find them. Alone and scared, she begins her search to find them in a war-torn United States, trying to avoid the military and the enemy.
👉For complete read do order the book on @amazondotcom
For book link:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0BKCF...
👉This novel grabbed my attention from the first chapter. If you like action, thrillers and/or dystopian novels, you’ll enjoy Path of Totality.
Wow! What a book! I am in love with the book
👉I just loved reading the book ...
Happy reading!
November 8, 2022
Path of Totality is a YA dystopian fiction novel by author Heather Kreke.
Path of Totality grabbed me from chapter one with the urgent news of the attack on New York, Los Angeles, Houston, and Chicago. I was intrigued all the way to the last chapter. However, the book leaves a cliffhanger, and I look forward to reading the second installment. Oh, I do hope there is book #2.
After the attacks Jadzia tells her little brother, “We’ll be fine”. But, will they? The government requires all males and females to register for the draft, and Jadzia is of age.
After Jadzia enlists she finds a reason to go AWOL. She goes back home, but her mom and brother have left. So begins the journey of finding her mom and brother.
Path of Totality is a quick read even though it has 333 pages. There is slight romance. However, as a whole, I would recommend Path of Totality to YA-Adults. I look forward to reading more by Ms. Kreke. Ms. Kreke is now on my author-watch list. I give Path of Totality 5*/5*.
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
Path of Totality grabbed me from chapter one with the urgent news of the attack on New York, Los Angeles, Houston, and Chicago. I was intrigued all the way to the last chapter. However, the book leaves a cliffhanger, and I look forward to reading the second installment. Oh, I do hope there is book #2.
After the attacks Jadzia tells her little brother, “We’ll be fine”. But, will they? The government requires all males and females to register for the draft, and Jadzia is of age.
After Jadzia enlists she finds a reason to go AWOL. She goes back home, but her mom and brother have left. So begins the journey of finding her mom and brother.
Path of Totality is a quick read even though it has 333 pages. There is slight romance. However, as a whole, I would recommend Path of Totality to YA-Adults. I look forward to reading more by Ms. Kreke. Ms. Kreke is now on my author-watch list. I give Path of Totality 5*/5*.
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
December 19, 2022
Christian, young adult, dystopic novel EOTWAWKI. As in many Christian stories, this one is based on an attack on Christians specifically being deprived of their religious freedom. In this story plot, a somewhat twisted and far fetch logic has the entire society turned against the victims. The government turns out to be totally incompetent in its war against the terrorist who are able to destroy all the big cities in the country with conventional explosives and attacks. These terrorists are happy to give up their lives to attack anyone who believes in a higher power such as GOD. To some extent, this is a propaganda piece for those Christians who are filled with fear that can so easily be turned to hatred for those that do not believe as they do. In our society, I strongly believe we need to keep religion and government separate and be tolerant of others and respect their belief as long as they do the same and do no harm. Obtained for free from Amazon December 17, 2022. (I do not expect to read the other book(s) in the series where I expect we will find that the Government and the terrorist are working together against those who believe in GOD.)
November 9, 2022
When I picked up this book, I didn't know if I would like it - or if I would even read all of it. WOW! Within the first three pages, I was totally "in" and became frustrated when the phone rang and I had to stop reading.
Path of Totality is a real "page-turner." The story rolls from one action to another; from one decision Jadzia makes to another. There's a powerful consequence with each decision - sometimes with an unexpected result. Yet, with strength and knowledge (and little else), she perseveres.
Meeting Ryker, he has strength and abilities that offset Jadzia's ... or rather, raises the question, do they complete each other?
Meanwhile, together they make a challenging journey, facing frighteningly redefined "normal," and achieve Jadzia's goal. They find her family. Yet, another unexpected result.
Path of Totality is a real "page-turner." The story rolls from one action to another; from one decision Jadzia makes to another. There's a powerful consequence with each decision - sometimes with an unexpected result. Yet, with strength and knowledge (and little else), she perseveres.
Meeting Ryker, he has strength and abilities that offset Jadzia's ... or rather, raises the question, do they complete each other?
Meanwhile, together they make a challenging journey, facing frighteningly redefined "normal," and achieve Jadzia's goal. They find her family. Yet, another unexpected result.
November 8, 2022
I've never read a YA dystopian book before - it's a new genre to me. Probably because I'm not considered YA - haha! But, this book has introduced me to a new genre which will find me reading again. Especially by this author.
The author's debut novel had me from the first page and pulled me through to the end with anticipation and eagerness to see what Jadzia Mills, the heroine, would encounter next.
This book is well crafted and well worth the time to read - I highly recommend it.
Disclaimer: I received a digital copy from the author with no expectation in return. My thoughts above are voluntary and my own.
The author's debut novel had me from the first page and pulled me through to the end with anticipation and eagerness to see what Jadzia Mills, the heroine, would encounter next.
This book is well crafted and well worth the time to read - I highly recommend it.
Disclaimer: I received a digital copy from the author with no expectation in return. My thoughts above are voluntary and my own.
April 14, 2023
A unique and thrilling adventure that takes action-packed to new heights. Terrorists against religion, a government conscripting teenagers to fight, and one girl who's willing to do anything to get back to her family. It's a YA dystopian trifecta that will have you cheering for Jadzia while you chew your nails to nubs in anticipation of what might happen next. I received a copy of this book from the author through RRBookTours. I was not required to leave a positive review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
March 29, 2023
This was almost an immediate DNF but I made myself read a bit farther because I have to do a book tour. Let me start by saying, didn't know this was a Christian dystopian aka fear mongering propoganda. Second, everything about this book was flat and one dimensional. This sounds like it was written by a Wattpad author. Scratch that, Wattpad author would do much better. Characters were meh, dialogue was meh, the futuristic details were meh.
April 12, 2023
I was looking at the reviews for this on Amazon and they all overwhelming agree that this is a book that you can’t put down. Well let me tell you they were right. I couldn’t stop reading right up to the cliff hangar at the end – when does book two come out? I loved Jadzia and her journey to find her family. I saw a lot of myself in her. I loved the Christian/religious tone and Ryker’s outlook on life. Well Done Ms. Kreke!! – now about book 2?
November 10, 2022
Honestly such a great book to read!! I honestly would recommend reading this book! If you love an action packed book with thrilling events then this is the book for you!! I don’t really read much books unless I like them from the beginning, and let me tell you this book had me hooked!! Such a great book!!
November 8, 2022
Loved this action-packed YA dystopian. It captivated me from the start. Heather Kreke's Path of Totality is guaranteed to keep readers turning the pages until they reach the very end. Kreke is a fresh voice to watch for in fiction!
November 18, 2022
Fast paced, thought provoking, inspiring.
Emotionally charged, non-stop heart-pounding action, and well developed relatable characters. Dystopian is not my usual genre, but Path of Totality kept me up reading late into the night. — Is this fiction, or the future?
Emotionally charged, non-stop heart-pounding action, and well developed relatable characters. Dystopian is not my usual genre, but Path of Totality kept me up reading late into the night. — Is this fiction, or the future?
November 24, 2022
This book had me on the edge of my seat from the very first page! The descriptions are stunning and the writing perfectly reflects what might be going through the mind of a teenager in a war such as what Jadzia is put through. I couldn't put it down!
November 8, 2022
I seriously couldn’t put this book down. Such great storytelling.
November 8, 2022
Hits the ground running and doesn’t stop. I wanted to keep reading straight through to the end. Only problem, now I have to wait for the next one. Wow!
November 19, 2022
Well, this debut kept the pages flying. Cannot wait for book 2. Bravo.
September 17, 2023
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Ⓑⓞⓞⓚ Ⓡⓔⓥⓘⓔⓦ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
ℙ𝕒𝕥𝕙 𝕠𝕗 𝕋𝕠𝕥𝕒𝕝𝕚𝕥𝕪
The Revolution Series-Book 1
𝗛𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗞𝗿𝗲𝗸𝗲
YA Dystopian Fiction
344 pages
Sʜᴏᴿᴛ Sʏɴᴏᴘsɪs
One day Jadzia is sitting in class at her high school when many major cities are bombed. She is forced into the military, where she loses her best friend and her mind as she sees him lying on the ground, dead. She runs away from the military, where she encounters good and bad people and situations as she tries to reunite with her mother and brother.
Mʸ Tᴴᴼᵁᴳᴴᵀs
Jadzia is a feisty, say-it-like-it-is, strong-willed teen. There were times I was proud of her and times I would’ve given her a lecture about her attitude. Due to that, I liked her at times and disliked her at others. Brent and Ryker are two of her “friends,” and both are sweethearts who would do anything for her. As with any dystopian novel, there are also people who are wickedly evil for no reason other than selfishness.
The story doesn’t give much information about the bombings other than who was responsible. I would have enjoyed more details about how everything came about. I was a little confused at the lack of people living in the towns and the cars left on the roads when it was just several large cities that were attacked. It mentions people being taken to safe areas, but it still seemed a bit more of an apocalyptic atmosphere than expected.
Ryker is a Christian with a father who is a preacher. He has strong faith, and Jadzia does not, especially due to the current situation. He slowly starts to lead her to his beliefs. Religion is attacked at one point, making it more dangerous for Ryker and his father.
to read all my latest reviews!
Ⓑⓞⓞⓚ Ⓡⓔⓥⓘⓔⓦ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
ℙ𝕒𝕥𝕙 𝕠𝕗 𝕋𝕠𝕥𝕒𝕝𝕚𝕥𝕪
The Revolution Series-Book 1
𝗛𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗞𝗿𝗲𝗸𝗲
YA Dystopian Fiction
344 pages
Sʜᴏᴿᴛ Sʏɴᴏᴘsɪs
One day Jadzia is sitting in class at her high school when many major cities are bombed. She is forced into the military, where she loses her best friend and her mind as she sees him lying on the ground, dead. She runs away from the military, where she encounters good and bad people and situations as she tries to reunite with her mother and brother.
Mʸ Tᴴᴼᵁᴳᴴᵀs
Jadzia is a feisty, say-it-like-it-is, strong-willed teen. There were times I was proud of her and times I would’ve given her a lecture about her attitude. Due to that, I liked her at times and disliked her at others. Brent and Ryker are two of her “friends,” and both are sweethearts who would do anything for her. As with any dystopian novel, there are also people who are wickedly evil for no reason other than selfishness.
The story doesn’t give much information about the bombings other than who was responsible. I would have enjoyed more details about how everything came about. I was a little confused at the lack of people living in the towns and the cars left on the roads when it was just several large cities that were attacked. It mentions people being taken to safe areas, but it still seemed a bit more of an apocalyptic atmosphere than expected.
Ryker is a Christian with a father who is a preacher. He has strong faith, and Jadzia does not, especially due to the current situation. He slowly starts to lead her to his beliefs. Religion is attacked at one point, making it more dangerous for Ryker and his father.
January 10, 2024
I really do enjoy a good speculative title every now and then. This YA dystopian tells the story of Jadzia, a 17-year-old who is forced into the military after a series of terrorist attacks plunges the United States into war.
(Review note: Yes, the main character's name is Jadzia. Like Jadzia Dax from Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. I'd hardly gotten used to it when the names of other Star Trek characters appeared, including Sisko, Bashir, Archer, and Riker/Ryker. Readers who are not Star Trek nerds might not pick up on this, but it did make me roll my eyes, if only because there were so many of them.)
Jadzia is motivated to do well in the military, but soon it all becomes too much and her goals change dramatically. She must lean on her instincts and her training to cross hundreds of miles, facing hunger, exhaustion, and attacks from unfriendly foes. Is anyone trustworthy?
Travel with Jadzia for one survival adventure after another. When she meets a group who live by the tenets of the Bible, she has to make different choices entirely.
I thought the writing was well-done, as was the narration for the audiobook. There were a few minor things that bothered me, such as the second point of view character not being introduced until around Chapter 40, and the book ends in a cliffhanger to draw you in for the second book in the series. Overall, however, I would recommend this for fans of YA dystopian with a Christian theme woven in.
This review originated at http://reviewsbyerin.dreamwidth.org
(Review note: Yes, the main character's name is Jadzia. Like Jadzia Dax from Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. I'd hardly gotten used to it when the names of other Star Trek characters appeared, including Sisko, Bashir, Archer, and Riker/Ryker. Readers who are not Star Trek nerds might not pick up on this, but it did make me roll my eyes, if only because there were so many of them.)
Jadzia is motivated to do well in the military, but soon it all becomes too much and her goals change dramatically. She must lean on her instincts and her training to cross hundreds of miles, facing hunger, exhaustion, and attacks from unfriendly foes. Is anyone trustworthy?
Travel with Jadzia for one survival adventure after another. When she meets a group who live by the tenets of the Bible, she has to make different choices entirely.
I thought the writing was well-done, as was the narration for the audiobook. There were a few minor things that bothered me, such as the second point of view character not being introduced until around Chapter 40, and the book ends in a cliffhanger to draw you in for the second book in the series. Overall, however, I would recommend this for fans of YA dystopian with a Christian theme woven in.
This review originated at http://reviewsbyerin.dreamwidth.org
March 1, 2024
DNF. Audible narrator is terrible. This must be for young teens because the FMC acts like she is 13 through the narrator tones.
April 11, 2024
Can't wait for book 2
I really loved this series. Loved the characters and the whole story line. Your descriptions are perfect. Can't wait for book 2
I really loved this series. Loved the characters and the whole story line. Your descriptions are perfect. Can't wait for book 2
December 30, 2024
Good book
You people should just read this novel yourselves and write your own review on this novel. I really enjoyed reading this novel very much . ShelleyMa
You people should just read this novel yourselves and write your own review on this novel. I really enjoyed reading this novel very much . ShelleyMa
November 20, 2023
Rating: ⭐⭐/7
Spice: 0/5
This debut takes us with Jadzia into finding her family , meeting new people, encountering some dangerous people & fighting against against the zealots who want to wipe out all religions from the world and most of all finding herself.
The only thing I liked about it is the fact how the author very clearly shown the trauma she had went through throughout the book. In dystopian novels most of the time a group of children just fights off the opponent and everything is well then. Don't get me wrong I like that but it was nice to see something new.
There were some things that were bit repetitive but considering this was the debut novel of the author I can exempt that. But I don't think I would be reading the 2nd book. As much I'm curious about what happens with Jadzia and Ryker the book seemed a little juvenile to me.
I have read many young adult dystopian novels and I totally love them but this wasn't the thing for me. The fact it wasn't mentioned when I signed up for the book tour its is a religious fiction book has definitely affected my review.
Spice: 0/5
This debut takes us with Jadzia into finding her family , meeting new people, encountering some dangerous people & fighting against against the zealots who want to wipe out all religions from the world and most of all finding herself.
The only thing I liked about it is the fact how the author very clearly shown the trauma she had went through throughout the book. In dystopian novels most of the time a group of children just fights off the opponent and everything is well then. Don't get me wrong I like that but it was nice to see something new.
There were some things that were bit repetitive but considering this was the debut novel of the author I can exempt that. But I don't think I would be reading the 2nd book. As much I'm curious about what happens with Jadzia and Ryker the book seemed a little juvenile to me.
I have read many young adult dystopian novels and I totally love them but this wasn't the thing for me. The fact it wasn't mentioned when I signed up for the book tour its is a religious fiction book has definitely affected my review.
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