Book Review of Path of Totality by Heather Kreke
A.E. Jackson Review Score: 3 / 5 Ravens
How was this review scored?
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 in her journey?