Carissa Williams is a young, serious, college student. She joins a Bible study, even though it is banned. Since her major, Christian Religious Studies, has been cancelled, she seeks meaning through philosophy, friendship, and the Bible study. She is drawn to John Spencer, a campaign manager, to fill her inner emptiness. Carissa becomes a champion in winning souls for Christ, as do Sally Sullivan, daughter of UW-Oshkosh's Dean, and Bible study leader, Alex Richardson. Constant danger encircles the group's efforts. Carissa falls in love with John while developing a growing relationship with Jesus. She ultimately faces a daunting decision that will forever change her life. The Casting of Crowns points the reader, along with Carissa, to Bible truths, and prompts each to consider his or her everlasting destiny as the signs of the times point to the soon Second Coming of Christ.