The Conscript

by Charles Schultz, Andrea Davis (Editor)

Dantin Cross has his simple life turned upside down when he becomes a member of this year's conscript. Believed to be an honor to be chosen, Dantin quickly learns there's more to it than people have been told. Joined by 31 other contestants, Dantin is faced with a series of challenges aimed at testing his athletic abilities, physical strength, mental capacity, and fighting skills. What seemed like a great opportunity quickly turns deadly when he discovers not everyone will survive training. Now he must navigate the dangers of survival while looking out for his new friends, battling his emotions, and deciding what kind of man he wants to become.

The world he once knew is about to change forever. Will Dantin be able to stay true to what he believes and who he hopes to be?

334 pages, Paperback

Expected publication May 12, 2026

About the author

Charles Schultz grew up in Worthington, Ohio. He spent the majority of his youth playing sports with a dream of becoming a collegiate athlete. Eventually his love of baseball earned him a scholarship to play at Youngstown State University. As a college athlete Charles spent a lot of time developing his writing. First, it was as a tool to set goals, journal successes and failures, and clear his mind from the immense amounts of work it was being a college athlete. Charles spent a lot of time creatively writing poems and after his playing career ended he decided to try something different, writing his first book Hitman’s Redemption.

Charles has spent the last several years expanding on his passion for writing. He has since written several other books, blogs, articles, and even contributed to a chapter to his professors coaching book. Charles loves being able to share insights, stories, and more through his writing. He also has a passion for coaching and speaking. He currently coaches several athletes as well as works with the Wooster High School Softball team.

Charles currently resides in Wooster, Ohio with his wife Erin and three children; Hunter, Sayler, and Charlie. He works as a strength coach, softball and baseball instructor, and coach. He loves talking about his passions and encourages anyone who might be on a journey for greatness themselves to reach out and connect.

Reviews

[Colleen Troll · Rating 5 out of 5]

Diving into the world of dystopian novels is a new genre for me… but this book did not disappoint! The world described within this book is a scary place to consider having to live through. It creates a lot of emotions to explore while reading. The lack of control in daily life and extensive fear-based oppression under government control is terrifying and almost too close to reality. The environmental aspects of the world created a lot of intrigue and provided a great twist to the story. Kind of a Hunger Games meets Walking Dead vibe! I loved it!

I loved the character development that happened throughout the story. There were many moments that the characters had to make what I would consider as impossible choices, but that only added a deeper emotional weight to the story. There were also a lot of connections that were hard to lose, although I feel like that only made for a deeper dystopian connection. It kept me on the edge of my seat throughout the whole story and just when I thought I knew what was coming… bam! Major shift in direction! This is a great book and I would definitely recommend you to read it!

[Lori Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book. I was fortunate to be one of the early readers, and it was worth every second of my time.

The immediate action drew me in, and I had a hard time putting it down. I was completely pulled into the story and felt a real connection with the characters.

The author did an amazing job making you feel like you were right there, inside the story.

I cannot wait for the second book!

If you love dystopian worlds and stories with a Hunger Games vibe, you will love this. 🔥📖

[Donna Wilgus · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was enthralled from beginning to end. Dystopian novels are what I am drawn to, and this one did not disappoint. I was pulled in from the start, and honestly felt like I was part of the dome. I definitely experienced the fear and anticipation of the characters. The ending caught me off guard, and I was left wanting more. I am anticipating the release of the second book of the series! Great job, Charles! Loved it!

[Danielle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. At the beginning I felt a bit of Hunger Games vibes which drew me in, but the story is unique and is very well written with great character development. I definitely felt myself get pulled into the story and am super excited to see where the author takes me in book 2. If you are a fan of a dystopian world, this is the book for you.

[Melissa Strader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sooooo….. to say I liked this book would be an understatement. Once I started it I didn’t want to put it down. Reminded me a little bit of hunger games or divergent.

If you love a good dystopian book. This is for you. If you enjoy people finding their people when they need them the most, this is the book for you. Can’t say enough good things about it!

[Cyndi · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Conscript is an enjoyable and engaging read. While it starts as familiar, don't let that fool you as the book progresses through twist and turns that you won't see coming. Can't wait to see what happens next.

[Deb · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book so easy to read. It reminds me of hunger games, maze runner, and divergent all rolled into one book. Plus, I did not expect that ending! I am really excited for the 2nd book in the series.