[1] Thalli is a young girl living in a world that was almost completely destroyed by nuclear war, forcing the survivors underground.

As they journey the group discovers various things that the underground world had assumed destroyed or ruined forever, such as animals, books, and nature itself.

[4][5] The School Library Journal and Publishers Weekly gave positive reviews but noted that the work had some issues.

The School Library Journal wrote that they found the religious themes "tepid" and felt that there were "better-written alternatives" out there for people interested in Christian dystopian fiction.

[7] Kirkus Reviews was similarly critical and commented that "This simplistic dystopia delivers formulaic romance and a large dose of religious faith.

"[8] Publishers Weekly was more positive: "McGee blends the determination of faith, the malevolence of those who extol power over decency, and the assertion of individual integrity in a humane glimpse at youthful courage.