Book Description
Michael is an 18 year old talented martial artist. After his best friend dies in a tragic accident, he is sentenced to 5 years imprisonment for involuntary manslaughter. Harsh lessons that come with prison life force him to set aside his otherwise well-meaning nature to adapt and survive.
After his release, he reunites with a fellow inmate Ijal who has befriended him. Now an adult, fast-tracking himself to independence and a meaningful course in life quickly becomes more challenging than he had imagined. While reconnecting with his father and martial arts instructor inspire him to pursue a path he once called his own, he also becomes entangled in Ijal's affairs, whose past catches up with him.
Moral dilemmas find their way into complicating his course of action and his sense of himself.
Once again, tragedy unfolds. Being pulled back into a world of violence, everything is put into question: his values, his identity, what he is capable of, and how far he is willing to go to break the cycle he has found himself entangled in.
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Reader Profile & Best Moment to Read
Michael's life becomes a gritty, action-packed journey that explores how tragic events can change a person's psychology and outlook on life. Whether its navigating a newly found adult life after his release or a prospect of becoming entangled in gang warfare, the pull between human frailty and willpower can have readers pondering what they might do in the protagonist's shoes.
Themes, Ideas & Atmosphere
Karma, philosophical themes, personal growth, internal and external conflict, pursuit for one's authentic self.
If You Loved These, You'll Love This
Those who like the movies Falling Down and Law Abiding Citizen would probably enjoy The Debt.
The Story Behind the Book
I've been through experiences that had me question my life's path of being a good man or a villain of my own choosing. The ones who gave me support and unconditional love inspired me to stay true to my authentic self, being one who lives by their sense of integrity. Martial arts dojos have always been a place of learning, strength, and a sense of belonging. Writing The Debt was my opportunity to blend my appreciation for well told stories, personal insights, martial arts action, philosophical themes into a book that readers have not seen before.
The Central Question
What can change a person's heart, what is someone capable of when pushed to their limit, and what can guide them back to rediscovering who they really are.