Though the conflicts a time traveler can face are becoming cliche, Rysa Walker did an amazing job of weaving these conflicts with traditional young adult fiction elements and modern developments in society and technology to create a story that is remarkable.
When Kate, child of a broken home, discovers that her life is unraveling because of the choices her grandmother made, Kate is forced to embark on an adventure to set things right. Along the way she meets people and characters she never would have met if she hadn't started on this journey. Fortunately many of these characters are as dependent on Kate's success despite her doubts and inability to overcome a grim future.
Romance is woven nicely into the story as well, placing Kate in the middle of a love conflict between two men. Her present and future boyfriend is hoplessly dependent upon Kate's success. However without her once-upon-a-time boyfriend, Kate will not succeed.
The author also played in the diabolical events of a historical atmosphere surrounding the unexplained and mysterious tendencies of American cult religions unhindered. With a modern hypersensitivity to fanatic behavior and blind devotion to a misguided mission, readers across America, and even around the globe will be compelled to cheer Kate on.
The story is rooted in history of western society and a possible future America where church and state are no longer as divided as they should be. This is a fantastic story. I can't wait to read the rest of the series.
