Unexpected Reunion on the Track

Huck returns to Utah after four years, drawn by his father's illness. Seeking solace, he heads to the backyard dirt track, a place of past freedom. Unexpectedly, Taylor appears, challenging him to a race. The race is a mix of nostalgia and tension, with Huck struggling to keep up. Taylor's presence stirs old emotions, and Huck's frustration boils over. Despite the years apart, the unresolved tension between them is palpable, setting the stage for a confrontation that neither is ready for.

Tension at the Family Table

Huck joins his father and stepmother, Maisie, for lunch, only to be interrupted by Taylor's arrival. The atmosphere is thick with unspoken history and unresolved issues. Taylor's casual demeanor contrasts with Huck's simmering resentment. The conversation is strained, with Taylor's presence a constant reminder of past conflicts. Huck's discomfort grows as he notices the absence of any trace of Taylor in the family home, highlighting the deep-seated issues between Taylor and his mother. The lunch ends with more questions than answers, leaving Huck feeling unsettled.

Racing Memories and Resentment

Huck seeks refuge on the dirt track, hoping to clear his mind. Taylor's unexpected challenge to a race brings back memories of their past, both good and bad. The race is intense, with Huck struggling to keep up with Taylor's skill and speed. The physical exertion mirrors the emotional turmoil within Huck, as he grapples with unresolved feelings and anger towards Taylor. The race ends with Huck's frustration boiling over, leading to a confrontation that leaves both men reeling from the emotional impact.

Secrets and Revelations Unfold

After the race, Huck confronts his father about Taylor's presence. The conversation reveals hidden truths about the family's past, including his father's struggles and the real reason behind his departure from the priesthood. Huck learns about the complex dynamics between his father, Maisie, and Taylor, shedding light on the strained relationships. The revelations leave Huck questioning his understanding of his family and his place within it, adding another layer of complexity to his already tumultuous return home.

Confrontation and Confusion Revisited

Taylor and Huck's relationship is fraught with tension as they navigate their complex emotions. Huck's anger and confusion boil over when he confronts Taylor about their past, leading to a physical altercation that leaves both men reeling. Despite the violence, there's an underlying current of unresolved feelings and a desperate need for closure. Taylor's attempts to explain his actions only add to Huck's frustration, as the unresolved tension between them becomes more apparent. The confrontation leaves Huck feeling more conflicted than ever, as he grapples with the lingering emotions and the impact of Taylor's presence on his life.

Tension at the Qualifier

The Qualifier for the Nitro Fuel Games is a pivotal moment for Taylor and Christian, both vying for a spot in the prestigious competition. The atmosphere is charged with anticipation and rivalry, as each rider showcases their best tricks. Taylor's performance is a testament to his skill and determination, earning him a near-perfect score and securing his place in the competition. However, the victory is bittersweet, as the tension between him and Huck looms large, casting a shadow over his success.

A Night of Truths and Dares

A party game of Truth or Dare among friends becomes a catalyst for revealing hidden tensions and unresolved issues. As secrets are exposed and emotions run high, the game serves as a microcosm of the larger conflicts at play. Taylor's jealousy and possessiveness come to the forefront, while Huck grapples with his own insecurities and fears. The night culminates in a heated confrontation between Taylor and Huck, forcing them to confront their feelings and the reality of their relationship.

A Drive to Clarity

In the aftermath of the party, Taylor and Huck take a drive to clear their heads and find clarity. The journey through the canyon becomes a metaphor for their relationship, as they navigate the twists and turns of their emotions. The drive provides a space for honest conversation and vulnerability, allowing them to address their fears and hopes for the future. Despite the uncertainty of what lies ahead, the drive solidifies their commitment to each other, setting the stage for a new chapter in their relationship.

A Night Under the Stars

In the quiet of the canyon, Taylor and Huck share a moment of peace under the stars. Taylor opens up about his past, revealing the scars of his childhood and the solace he finds in the quiet of nature. Huck listens, understanding the weight of Taylor's past and the strength it took to overcome it. As they sit together, the stars above them a silent witness, they find a moment of clarity and connection, a reminder of the love that binds them despite the challenges they face.

A Family Divided, A Heart United

At the family barbecue, tensions rise as Maisie voices her disapproval of Taylor. Huck, unable to stand by, declares his love for Taylor to the entire family, making it clear that he won't tolerate any disrespect towards him. This bold declaration is a turning point for Huck, a moment where he chooses love over family expectations. It's a powerful moment that solidifies their bond, showing that their love is worth fighting for.

A Surprise Prom Night

In a gesture of love and redemption, Taylor organizes a surprise prom night for Huck in their old high school gym. It's a chance to rewrite the past, to create a new memory where love triumphs over pain. As they dance together, surrounded by friends and family, the past fades away, leaving only the present and the promise of a future together. It's a moment of healing and hope, a testament to the power of love to overcome even the deepest wounds.

A Love That Transcends Distance

As Huck prepares to leave for Baltimore, the reality of their impending separation looms over them. But instead of fear, they find strength in their love. Taylor's surprise trip to Delaware is a reminder of the journey they've been on, a symbol of the love that has grown between them. Despite the distance, they know that their love will endure, a bond that transcends time and space. It's a promise of forever, a love that will always find its way back home.

Characters

Huckslee Davis

Huck returns to Utah burdened by his father's illness and unresolved feelings towards Taylor. His time away has given him perspective, but the return home stirs old emotions. Huck is torn between his responsibilities to his family and the unresolved tension with Taylor. His internal struggle is compounded by the revelation of family secrets, leaving him questioning his place within the family and his future.

Taylor Tottman

Taylor's journey is one of redemption and growth. From a troubled past, he emerges as a man determined to build a future with Huck. His love for Huck is unwavering, a guiding light that helps him navigate the challenges they face. Taylor's strength lies in his ability to forgive and move forward, to create a life filled with love and hope.

Aaron Davis

Aaron's illness brings Huck back to Utah, but it also reveals the hidden struggles he has faced. His departure from the priesthood and the strained relationship with Taylor are brought to light, adding complexity to his character. Aaron's attempts to reconcile with his sons are met with mixed emotions, as he grapples with his own regrets and the impact of his actions on his family.

Maisie Tottman

Maisie's relationship with Taylor is strained, as she struggles to balance her loyalty to her husband and her love for her son. Her interactions with Huck reveal a desire to mend the fractured family, but her efforts are complicated by the unresolved tension between Taylor and Huck. Maisie's character is a reflection of the complex dynamics within the family, as she navigates the emotional fallout of past decisions.

Christian Totillo

Christian is Taylor's best friend and fellow motocross rider, whose easygoing nature provides a counterbalance to the tension between Taylor and Huck. Despite his own disappointment at the qualifier, Christian remains supportive of Taylor, offering encouragement and camaraderie. His presence serves as a reminder of the importance of friendship and loyalty, even in the face of personal setbacks.

Salem Tottman

Salem is Taylor's close friend and confidante, whose relationship with Logan adds another layer of complexity to the group dynamic. Her loyalty to Taylor is unwavering, but her own unresolved issues with Logan create tension and conflict. Salem's journey is one of self-discovery and reconciliation, as she navigates the challenges of love and friendship.

Logan Davis

Logan is Huck's best friend, whose own relationship struggles mirror the larger conflicts at play. As he grapples with the changes in his life and the impact of Huck's draft selection, Logan is forced to confront his own insecurities and fears. His journey is one of growth and acceptance, as he learns to navigate the complexities of love and friendship.

Devon

Devon's presence in Taylor's life is a reminder of the freedom and acceptance he seeks. His offer of a motorcycle ride is a moment of clarity for Taylor, a chance to escape the judgment and find a moment of peace. Devon's role is a catalyst for change, a reminder that love and acceptance can be found in unexpected places.

Plot Devices

The Dirt Track

The dirt track serves as a powerful symbol throughout the narrative, representing both freedom and conflict. For Huck, it is a place of solace and escape, a reminder of happier times. For Taylor, it is a battleground where unresolved tensions come to the surface. The track is a physical manifestation of their shared history, a place where past and present collide, forcing both characters to confront their emotions and the unresolved issues between them.

The Qualifier

The Qualifier for the Nitro Fuel Games serves as a pivotal plot device, representing the ambition and rivalry between Taylor and Christian. The high-stakes competition is a catalyst for revealing hidden tensions and unresolved issues, forcing the characters to confront their fears and desires. The qualifier is a microcosm of the larger conflicts at play, highlighting the challenges of balancing personal ambition with relationships and loyalty.

Truth or Dare Game

The game of Truth or Dare serves as a plot device to reveal hidden tensions and unresolved issues among the characters. As secrets are exposed and emotions run high, the game becomes a catalyst for confrontation and resolution. The game serves as a microcosm of the larger conflicts at play, highlighting the complexities of love, friendship, and loyalty.

The Drive

The late-night drive through the canyon serves as a metaphor for Taylor and Huck's relationship, representing the twists and turns of their emotions. The drive provides a space for honest conversation and vulnerability, allowing the characters to address their fears and hopes for the future. The drive is a symbol of clarity and resolution, setting the stage for a new chapter in their relationship.

The Motorcycle Ride

The motorcycle ride with Devon serves as a powerful symbol of freedom and clarity for Taylor. It's a moment of escape from the judgment and tension he feels from Huck's family, a chance to find peace and clarity in the wind and speed. The ride is a reminder of the life he wants to build with Huck, one where they can be themselves without fear or judgment.

The Surprise Prom Night

The surprise prom night organized by Taylor is a moment of redemption and healing for both him and Huck. It's a chance to rewrite the past, to create a new memory where love triumphs over pain. The prom is a powerful symbol of their love, a testament to the power of love to overcome even the deepest wounds.

The Trip to Delaware

The trip to Delaware is a powerful symbol of Taylor and Huck's journey and the love that has grown between them. It's a reminder of the challenges they've faced and the love that has endured. The trip is a promise of forever, a love that will always find its way back home.

Analysis

"Finding Delaware" by Bree Wiley is a poignant exploration of love, redemption, and self-discovery. Through the complex relationship between Taylor and Huck, the narrative delves into themes of forgiveness, acceptance, and the courage to embrace one's true self. The story highlights the power of love to heal and unite, transcending the barriers of time and distance. The characters' journeys are a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, as they navigate the challenges of family expectations, personal ambition, and the pursuit of happiness. Ultimately, the book is a celebration of love's enduring power, a reminder that true love is worth fighting for, no matter the obstacles.

Last updated: February 24, 2025