The Darkest Path by Jeff Hirsch is a dystopian novel set in a post-apocalyptic future where the United States is divided between the remnants of the US government and the Glorious Path, a militia group following the teachings of an ex-US soldier. The story follows Cal, who, after being captured by the Path, befriends a dog named Bear and finds himself on the run, discovering the world beyond the Path and the impact of his actions on the country's future.

The book delves into the deep relationship between Cal and Bear, highlighting the bond between them as they navigate a world torn apart by civil war and the oppressive rule of the Glorious Path. Readers are taken on a suspenseful journey filled with action sequences, exploring themes of survival, loyalty, and the consequences of choices made in a society on the brink of collapse.

Characters:

Characters are dynamic, particularly Callum and Bear, though some secondary characters may feel underdeveloped.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is engaging, utilizing flashbacks and cliffhangers to create suspense.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot features multifaceted conflicts and follows Callum Roe's journey from indoctrination to becoming a fugitive, enhanced by effective flashbacks and cliffhangers.

Setting:

The setting is a post-apocalyptic America engulfed in civil war between government remnants and a militia.

Pacing:

The pacing is inconsistent, alternating between intense action and slower sections that may detract from the overall tension.

Notes:

The book explores multiple conflicts: man vs man, man vs self, man vs society, and man vs nature.

Callum Roe, the main character, was captured and indoctrinated by a group called the Path.

Callum has a close bond with a dog named Bear, which adds emotional depth to the story.

The author uses cliffhangers effectively to keep readers engaged at the end of chapters.

Many readers found the book suspenseful with unexpected twists throughout the story.

The plot is set in a post-apocalyptic America where the country is divided between the US government and a religious militia called the Glorious Path.

Readers noted that the book contains realistic elements that could potentially happen in real life.

The second book in the series focuses on Bear's perspective and backstory.

Despite the heavy action, some readers found parts of the book dragged with low points between climactic scenes.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include themes of violence, war, potential trauma related to the civil conflict, and instances of indoctrination or manipulation.

From The Publisher:

USA TODAY bestselling author Jeff Hirsch once again creates a futuristic world with stunning, dramatic realism.

A civil war rages between the Glorious Path-a militant religion based on the teachings of a former US soldier-and what's left of the US government. Fifteen-year-old Callum Roe and his younger brother, James, were captured and forced to convert six years ago. Cal has been working in the Path's dog kennels, and is very close to becoming one of the Path's deadliest secret agents. Then Cal befriends a stray dog named Bear and kills a commander who wants to train him to be a vicious attack dog. This sends Cal and Bear on the run, and sets in motion a series of incredible events that will test Cal's loyalties and end in a fierce battle that the fate of the entire country rests on.

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1 comment(s)

huosum006

Incredible

3 months

It was OK not as good as i expected.Oh well worth the read.

What can you read after
The Darkest Path?

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The Darkest Path

Jeff Hirsch

Book 1 in the series:Darkest Path

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