Review of Totem

[Nazma P]

This sounds like a great blend of history and mystic. I'm curious to know the secrets of Bear Valley. How Sarah's journey will unfold. This book has a great premise and rich setting. It seems like a great read and I would love to check out the book.

[Love Ukaegbu]

This book, "Totem" by Charlie Sheldon, seems to have a very unique plot. I also want to know how the investigation turned out. Congratulations on the book of the day.

[peter parker 14]

Totem is the third and final book in Charlie Sheldon’s Strong Heart series, and it delivers a thoughtful, atmospheric, and emotionally rich conclusion to a trilogy that bridges nature, mythology, and human connection. Set once again in the majestic landscapes of the Pacific Northwest—particularly the Olympic Peninsula—the novel follows 14-year-old Sarah Cooley and a returning cast of characters as they face strange events tied to ancient spirits, cultural memory, and ecological conflict. At its core, Totem is both an adventure and a spiritual journey, combining personal growth with environmental and historical themes that feel more relevant than ever.

Sheldon’s writing shines when it comes to place. His deep respect for the land, wildlife, and Indigenous cultures is evident in every scene. The descriptions of the forest, coastlines, and sacred spaces are immersive and detailed without becoming overwhelming. Readers who enjoy nature writing and eco-fiction will find themselves pulled into a world where the land itself seems to breathe and speak. The novel also continues the series' unique cross-time storytelling, blending contemporary events with visions and echoes of the ancient past. This adds a mythic quality to the narrative, connecting the characters’ modern struggles to something much older and deeper.

The character of Sarah stands out as the emotional heart of the story. Her growth from a grieving, uncertain teen into a young woman with purpose and strength is handled with subtlety and care. Other characters—like Carl, William, and Mary—offer support and complexity, although some readers may feel that certain side characters fade too quickly or aren’t as fully developed. Still, the relationships feel genuine and grounded.

At over 550 pages, Totem is not a fast read, and its pacing may feel slow at times. However, the deliberate unfolding of events allows for reflection and deeper connection with the themes. Sheldon doesn't rush the story, and that patience pays off in a finale that is both satisfying and thought-provoking. There are moments where the plot could have been tightened, and a few readers may notice minor inconsistencies in continuity, but these do not detract from the book’s overall impact.

In short, Totem is a beautifully written and meaningful novel that blends spiritual depth, environmental urgency, and personal growth. It’s a strong, memorable finish to a series that encourages readers to listen closely—to the land, to history, and to themselves

[Kibet Hillary]

Indeed, the lessons to keep traditions alive, progressive traditions, in a very dynamic world is both timely and timeless. I have read both Strong Heart and Adrift and I can attest that Charlie Sheldon is an exceptional author; I enjoyed reading these two books, and I am certain that this is both moving and captivating. Thank you for the review, @Verna Coy.

[Gideon Adigun]

Great review. You captured the heart of Totem beautifully, especially the blend of suspense, indigenous history, and environmental themes. I love the questions it raises about climate change and tradition. Your insights on Sarah’s character and the story’s depth have definitely made me want to read the series. Well done for your nice review

[Limpho Mojakisane]

This review shows that Totem brings a strong ending to the series. I like how the story mixes suspense, history, and environmental themes. The way the characters connect with the land and culture of the Pacific Northwest sounds powerful. It’s also good to know that the book is well-researched and easy to follow, even with the deeper topics. Definitely seems worth reading for fans of adventure and indigenous history.

[Amarachi Stephanie Ejike]

The third book in the Strong Heart Series, "Totem" by Charlie Sheldon conveys an immersive plot filled with surprises and suspense, taking readers through the history of the Pacific Northwest and its culture. The story advocates keeping traditions alive in an ever-changing world,and would interest history and adventure lovers.

[Stephanie Gail Stephen]

Although I haven’t read Totem yet, I appreciate how the book seems to blend adventure, history, and cultural reflection in such an immersive way. I’m especially intrigued by how it raises questions about the resilience of indigenous peoples in the face of environmental change. The focus on preserving traditions while navigating modern challenges sounds particularly intriguing.

[Stephanie Gail Stephen]

Although I haven’t read Totem yet, I appreciate how the book seems to blend adventure, history, and cultural reflection in such an immersive way. I’m especially intrigued by how it raises questions about the resilience of indigenous peoples in the face of environmental change. The focus on preserving traditions while navigating modern challenges sounds particularly intriguing.

[Moisés Alcántara Ayre]

This is a great story about the indigenous people of the Pacific Northwest. For me, the biggest takeaway is the importance of keeping traditions alive despite the changes in an ever-evolving world.

[azza lia]

This sounds like a great book for those interested in the Pacific Northwest's history and its culture. It is entertaining and well researched. I think I should read the first book first. Sarah is indeed a strong character. But I'm not sure why I don't enjoy stubborn female characters. The storyline is promising, though. Nice review!

[Rose Angela]

Totem by Charlie Sheldon is the third and final installment in the Strong Heart series,a compelling blend of adventure, environmentalism, and Indigenous mythology set in the wilds of the Pacific Northwest.

[Ari Martinez]

Thank you for the review. The story of Bear Valley seems interesting, but I haven't read the first two books of this trilogy, so I will have to take a look at the other books first. I really like that this book is suspenseful and makes the readers ask themselves questions. I also like books with great characterization, so I'm glad you mentioned that in your review.

[Renee Cryer]

Oh my goodness, the sample I read I loved. I am going to buy the book so I can finish reading it. Though it isn't the beginning of the series, you can pick up the book and start reading as if it was the first book. Congratulations on the BOTD

[Creole]

In 'Totem' by Charlie Sheldon, we are introduced to indigenous people, their culture, and history. When their ancient traditions are threatened, Sarah, the protagonist, and her friends set out on a quest to honour the legend of their forefathers in Bear Valley. The journey is fraught with danger, but will their determination and strength be enough to win? I'm curious to find out and have added this book to my reading list. Thanks for the insights. You seem to have enjoyed the book.