"Everything they had been through had led up to this moment (comma here?) and they were not about to let anything stop them" I'm thinking I don't need a comma here since it seems like it's all one idea. Am I wrong?. If anyone could clarify I'd greatly appreciate it, thanks
. You could insert a comma as it's separating two thoughts/phrases. A full stop would work as well. But for me it works without - either way.
Since you have two independent clauses, you technically need a comma. However, if it's fiction, you can bend the rules a little and not use a comma if you don't want the reader to pause there.
It all depends on how you want the sentence to read: with a stop, or not with a stop. Personally, I think it sounds better with the stop. But do what you want.
Mammamaia is right: the comma is optional. Whether or not you use it will be determined by the tone you want. Read your whole paragraph aloud with the comma (there will be a pause) and without (no pause). See which works best for the pace, rhythm, and mood you're aiming for.