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Out of the Ashes
The year is 1980, and Mount St. Helens hasn’t erupted in over one hundred years. Surely, it won’t happen now?
Volcanologist Nova “Cano” Kane is the first to volunteer when the rumblings start, even if it means she’ll have to face her biggest regret. When Cano fled Seattle four years ago, she left behind the woman she’s never been able to forget.
Geology professor Dr. Allison Albright has spent four years learning to live with Multiple Sclerosis and without Nova. Now her ex has waltzed back into Allison’s university and the tension between them is building like that inside the restless mountain.
As the women work together to overcome the limitations of science and short-sighted politicians, they struggle with their past. Is there any way to heal? Move on?
It’s a race against time in this edge-of-the-seat lesbian romance. Which will erupt first–Mount St. Helens or their feelings for each other?
Volcanologist Nova “Cano” Kane is the first to volunteer when the rumblings start, even if it means she’ll have to face her biggest regret. When Cano fled Seattle four years ago, she left behind the woman she’s never been able to forget.
Geology professor Dr. Allison Albright has spent four years learning to live with Multiple Sclerosis and without Nova. Now her ex has waltzed back into Allison’s university and the tension between them is building like that inside the restless mountain.
As the women work together to overcome the limitations of science and short-sighted politicians, they struggle with their past. Is there any way to heal? Move on?
It’s a race against time in this edge-of-the-seat lesbian romance. Which will erupt first–Mount St. Helens or their feelings for each other?
371 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 15, 2023
11 people are currently reading
115 people want to read
About the author
Rita Potter
19 books137 followersRita Potter has spent most of her life trying to figure out what makes people tick. To that end, she holds a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work and an MA in Sociology. Her favorite pastime is crawling around inside peoples’ brains. Her loved ones are grateful that she now has characters whose minds she can explore, so maybe she’ll stay out of theirs.
Rita’s writing reflects her belief that in some way we are all damaged and must conquer our demons in order to create a fulfilling life. Being an eternal optimist, she maintains that the human spirit is remarkably resilient and can overcome even the most challenging obstacles. That optimism is the wellspring of her life goal- to provide encouragement and support to help people thrive.
In her spare time, she enjoys the outdoors. She is especially drawn to the water, which is ironic since she lives in the middle of a corn field. Her first love has always been reading, which has spurred her writing. She rides a Harley Davidson and has an unnatural obsession with fantasy football. More than anything she detests small talk, but can ramble on for hours given a topic that interests her.
She lives in a small town in Illinois with her wife, Terra, and their cat, Chumley, who actually runs the household.
Rita is a member of American Mensa and the Golden Crown Literary Society. She is currently a student of the GCLS Writing Academy 2021.
Rita’s writing reflects her belief that in some way we are all damaged and must conquer our demons in order to create a fulfilling life. Being an eternal optimist, she maintains that the human spirit is remarkably resilient and can overcome even the most challenging obstacles. That optimism is the wellspring of her life goal- to provide encouragement and support to help people thrive.
In her spare time, she enjoys the outdoors. She is especially drawn to the water, which is ironic since she lives in the middle of a corn field. Her first love has always been reading, which has spurred her writing. She rides a Harley Davidson and has an unnatural obsession with fantasy football. More than anything she detests small talk, but can ramble on for hours given a topic that interests her.
She lives in a small town in Illinois with her wife, Terra, and their cat, Chumley, who actually runs the household.
Rita is a member of American Mensa and the Golden Crown Literary Society. She is currently a student of the GCLS Writing Academy 2021.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
March 7, 2023
One of the things I love the most about Rita Potter is the variety of her books. It feels like every story she comes up with something totally new. Be it an apocalypse series, an adventure story that also deals with grief, and several other different stories. One thing all her books have in common is that they all include a wonderful romance story with characters who will grow on you. One of the reasons for making me love the characters as much as I do is because they are human. They make mistakes like we all do and maybe they are sometimes stubborn like we all are as well. I also feel like every book the characters grow very much from the beginning until the end.
And you know what? I found all of these things in this new book. A story that couldn’t have a better title. It’s based on true circumstances in a year that is actually my birth year. I believe the whole story would have made me invested very much, but that everything happened a few months before I was born made me be invested even more. I had such a good time to read a story that is set in a time when people didn’t have mobile phones or Starbucks wasn’t known everywhere.
Aside from the whole story about the volcano eruption, we get a wonderful second chance romance story. Cano and Allie separated several years before because of their circumstances. Volcanos were always something that connected them and in the end it‘s a volcano that brings them together again. After what happened in the past and considering some health issues I liked the pace of the story. I feel like this is also a bit of a typical thing we get in Rita’s stories, they are never rushed. So if you’re a fan of slow-burn you will be definitely very happy. And if you also love some action in your books, you will be even more happy.
I am already looking forward to Rita’s next story and I’m very curious with what she will come up next. ☺️
I received an advance reader copy from the author and voluntarily leaving a review.
And you know what? I found all of these things in this new book. A story that couldn’t have a better title. It’s based on true circumstances in a year that is actually my birth year. I believe the whole story would have made me invested very much, but that everything happened a few months before I was born made me be invested even more. I had such a good time to read a story that is set in a time when people didn’t have mobile phones or Starbucks wasn’t known everywhere.
Aside from the whole story about the volcano eruption, we get a wonderful second chance romance story. Cano and Allie separated several years before because of their circumstances. Volcanos were always something that connected them and in the end it‘s a volcano that brings them together again. After what happened in the past and considering some health issues I liked the pace of the story. I feel like this is also a bit of a typical thing we get in Rita’s stories, they are never rushed. So if you’re a fan of slow-burn you will be definitely very happy. And if you also love some action in your books, you will be even more happy.
I am already looking forward to Rita’s next story and I’m very curious with what she will come up next. ☺️
I received an advance reader copy from the author and voluntarily leaving a review.
October 13, 2023
3.5 to be exact.
Cano and Allie. I appreciate the scientific side of the story and how detailed it all sounded. It seemed like the author spent a lot of time researching about the volcano and everything that goes with it and it paid off. The main character story paralleled with the natural disaster with a countdown was a nice touch adding to an impending doom lurking just around the corner. I also loved how the author chose to unfold the main characters’ stories. It was unusual and more intriguing.
Cano and Allie. I appreciate the scientific side of the story and how detailed it all sounded. It seemed like the author spent a lot of time researching about the volcano and everything that goes with it and it paid off. The main character story paralleled with the natural disaster with a countdown was a nice touch adding to an impending doom lurking just around the corner. I also loved how the author chose to unfold the main characters’ stories. It was unusual and more intriguing.
August 24, 2023
What an adventure! What a great second chance/ slow burn/ age gap romance! This takes place in 1980 before/during/and after Mount St. Helens erupts! Cano and Allie were together until circumstances tore them apart. What brings them together originally was their love of volcanoes. That's what brings them back into each others lives 4 years later. You won't be able to put this book down! Definitely 5 stars ( should be more!!).
February 27, 2023
An impending volcanic eruption forced together two lovers who had been parted for four years. The story explores reactions to disability, friendship, love, and the pain of a breakup. Really enjoyed the story, even sat through a minor earthquake as I read the volcanic chapters.
July 7, 2025
This is a great story. It’s based on the eruption of Mt. St. Helens in 1980. It’s obvious that Rita Potter spent some time researching the incident. It really comes through in the book.
Allie is a professor at the university. Cano is not only her former student, but also her former romantic partner. They’ve not seen each other in 4 years since they walked away from each other in heartbreak. Now, with the volcano showing signs of being unstable and potentially erupting, Cano and Allie will once again come face to face.
I loved everything about this book. The characters were real to me, believable. I was left wanting more of them. The story, well, I was consumed by everything on the pages; the characters, their past, their current budding friendship, even the volcano itself and I’ve never had an interest beyond the volcano you made in science class when you were a kid.
Out of the Ashes is sweet, touching, thoughtful and exciting. Simply a wonderful read❤️
Rita, thanks for such an incredible story. I agree with you; I want to go for a ride with Cano and have a beer with her…as long as it’s not Löwenbräu 😬
Allie is a professor at the university. Cano is not only her former student, but also her former romantic partner. They’ve not seen each other in 4 years since they walked away from each other in heartbreak. Now, with the volcano showing signs of being unstable and potentially erupting, Cano and Allie will once again come face to face.
I loved everything about this book. The characters were real to me, believable. I was left wanting more of them. The story, well, I was consumed by everything on the pages; the characters, their past, their current budding friendship, even the volcano itself and I’ve never had an interest beyond the volcano you made in science class when you were a kid.
Out of the Ashes is sweet, touching, thoughtful and exciting. Simply a wonderful read❤️
Rita, thanks for such an incredible story. I agree with you; I want to go for a ride with Cano and have a beer with her…as long as it’s not Löwenbräu 😬
August 16, 2025
This has sat in my next to read pile for ages. I'm not sure why? Half way through I am kicking past self for not reading this. I am also high fiveing past self for saving it for a trip that gave me uninterrupted access!
The author has made the main unlikable.... I mean how can I support someone who doesn't like custard donuts?
I have barely raised my head for the first half of the book. (Donut gate withstanding.... and that was my eyebrows rather than head!) I love hate that the author teases us with the past. There has been a pivotal event and to be honest custard phobia pales in to insignificance depending decisions made.
Side note, the chapter heading count down to an event. That sort of removes some of the will it won't it tension. Plus I know it did.... but the long run-in adds a different tension. Well played Rita.
The tension from the environment came to a head, as did the relationship. Both very well written. Well done, again!
The author has made the main unlikable.... I mean how can I support someone who doesn't like custard donuts?
I have barely raised my head for the first half of the book. (Donut gate withstanding.... and that was my eyebrows rather than head!) I love hate that the author teases us with the past. There has been a pivotal event and to be honest custard phobia pales in to insignificance depending decisions made.
Side note, the chapter heading count down to an event. That sort of removes some of the will it won't it tension. Plus I know it did.... but the long run-in adds a different tension. Well played Rita.
The tension from the environment came to a head, as did the relationship. Both very well written. Well done, again!
February 25, 2023
Fascinating story with great character development. The story takes challenges head on with Mount St. Helens imminent eruption providing the energy filled background. The author has done authentic research into the events leading up to the eruption and presents a very real story. I was captivated by this book because of my love for the earth and her movements as well as my love for a really good love story. Exciting volcanoes and delicious lesbians, can it get any better?
April 29, 2024
This is a story about a volcano eruption that most of us have lived through. It is also the story of two volcanologists who had a long time relationship until Allie was diagnosed with MS and drove her lover, Cano, away. The potential eruption of Mt. St Helen’s brings them back together and a second chance, if only they can see their way forward again. Lots of scientific knowledge that was noticeably researched by the author. At times, I felt like I was in the room with them discussing the possible eruption. The love story is real and palpable but communication between the MC’s is lacking. Honesty is necessary to a relationship especially when one partner is sick. A good, solid historical fiction romance.
March 17, 2023
I received this ARC in exchange for my free and honest review. But, to be honest, I would have read it anyway because I truly believe Rita Potter writes from the heart.
There are times in my life when I wish I didn’t enjoy reading as much as I do. This book has reminded me of that today. I kept finding other things to do in order to avoid hitting the end. I simply did not want it to end!
The book “Out of the Ashes” deals with the very real event of the Mount St. Helens eruption in 1980. I’m not going to explain what the synopsis will readily tell you. Instead, I’ll tell you that this is one of those books that starts out slow but, as you read each chapter, you’re counting the days until the eruption occurs. Calling it a ‘slow-burn’ is actually a double entendre in that everybody is waiting for an eruption of a volcano that hadn’t even had a major burp in over 100 years; then you have the two MC, Cano and Allie … will they or won’t they? Both women are so full of guilt and fear of hurting each other that they both almost give up on themselves. You’ll like both of them and, at times, you’ll dislike both of them… but you’ll always cheer for them to get back together!
Potter’s humor comes out to play several times, she threw in some great one-liners that were fun to read. The suspense only builds when the days before eruption turn into the hours before.
You just keep getting better, Rita, and I’m so happy! I’m happy not only for you but also for the many readers that have quickly become fans of yours!
There are times in my life when I wish I didn’t enjoy reading as much as I do. This book has reminded me of that today. I kept finding other things to do in order to avoid hitting the end. I simply did not want it to end!
The book “Out of the Ashes” deals with the very real event of the Mount St. Helens eruption in 1980. I’m not going to explain what the synopsis will readily tell you. Instead, I’ll tell you that this is one of those books that starts out slow but, as you read each chapter, you’re counting the days until the eruption occurs. Calling it a ‘slow-burn’ is actually a double entendre in that everybody is waiting for an eruption of a volcano that hadn’t even had a major burp in over 100 years; then you have the two MC, Cano and Allie … will they or won’t they? Both women are so full of guilt and fear of hurting each other that they both almost give up on themselves. You’ll like both of them and, at times, you’ll dislike both of them… but you’ll always cheer for them to get back together!
Potter’s humor comes out to play several times, she threw in some great one-liners that were fun to read. The suspense only builds when the days before eruption turn into the hours before.
You just keep getting better, Rita, and I’m so happy! I’m happy not only for you but also for the many readers that have quickly become fans of yours!
June 16, 2023
Rita Potter
Out of the Ashes
The tale of Cano and her love for Mount Saint Ellen is unlike any other. From a young age, she was fascinated by the majestic volcano and even researched it in school. She dreamed of visiting its little bar, but there was a password she couldn't remember.
This story takes you on a rollercoaster of emotions, with unexpected twists and turns. It's not just about Cano's love for the volcano, but also about a second chance at love with Dr. Allison Albright. The author's unique approach to storytelling is truly exquisite, and keeps you hooked until the very end.
I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for something out of the ordinary. It's not your typical love story, but it's one that will stay with you long after you've finished reading. Cano and Mount Saint Ellen will capture your heart, just as they did mine. The author has truly earned her place among my favorite writers.
Out of the Ashes
The tale of Cano and her love for Mount Saint Ellen is unlike any other. From a young age, she was fascinated by the majestic volcano and even researched it in school. She dreamed of visiting its little bar, but there was a password she couldn't remember.
This story takes you on a rollercoaster of emotions, with unexpected twists and turns. It's not just about Cano's love for the volcano, but also about a second chance at love with Dr. Allison Albright. The author's unique approach to storytelling is truly exquisite, and keeps you hooked until the very end.
I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for something out of the ordinary. It's not your typical love story, but it's one that will stay with you long after you've finished reading. Cano and Mount Saint Ellen will capture your heart, just as they did mine. The author has truly earned her place among my favorite writers.
October 26, 2025
This audiobook was recommended to me and I really knew nothing else about it. It was available on Hoopla and I’m so glad I listened to it because it’s a story that I won’t forget.
The story centers around the impending eruption of Mt. St. Helen’s in 1980. The two mains are Cano, a scientist, and Allie, a professor at U. Of Washington. They had a relationship in the past that was torn apart. Now, the situation of what’s happening with the volcano brought them back in each other’s radar.
The tension caused by the volcano and the need to prepare for it compounded by some bad choices by decision makers, all bring the tension level up. I love how the author was able to weave the relationship issues into the volcano drama.
There were some great characters that fit so well into the story, plus the nostalgia of seeing the progresses we’ve seen since 1980. Yes, I can’t wait to read more of Rita Potter!
The story centers around the impending eruption of Mt. St. Helen’s in 1980. The two mains are Cano, a scientist, and Allie, a professor at U. Of Washington. They had a relationship in the past that was torn apart. Now, the situation of what’s happening with the volcano brought them back in each other’s radar.
The tension caused by the volcano and the need to prepare for it compounded by some bad choices by decision makers, all bring the tension level up. I love how the author was able to weave the relationship issues into the volcano drama.
There were some great characters that fit so well into the story, plus the nostalgia of seeing the progresses we’ve seen since 1980. Yes, I can’t wait to read more of Rita Potter!
March 28, 2023
“Cumin” means “I love you”
I was a little kid when Mount St Helens erupted in 1980. Reading this romance set against the backdrop of that natural disaster was a trip down memory lane. I loved all the attention to detail about the study of volcanoes and how we knew so little about them, especially predicting if they would erupt, when this occurred. While in the middle of reading this story, I pulled up video footage of the aftermath of the eruption and the way Rita describes the events that unfold is perfection. Mother Nature is truly something to behold — beautiful and dangerous.
Cano and Allie are wonderful characters…flawed…perfectly imperfect, which makes them so relatable. My heart ached for them and the loss of time they’d experienced after breaking up 4 years prior to the book’s events. There were definitely moments when I got choked up, moments when I laughed, moments that made me anxious, and moments when I cheered. I don’t want to go into specifics and spoil any of the story, but I’d encourage anyone who enjoys a second-chance romance and a bit of historical fiction to give this book a read. You’ll be glad you did.
I was a little kid when Mount St Helens erupted in 1980. Reading this romance set against the backdrop of that natural disaster was a trip down memory lane. I loved all the attention to detail about the study of volcanoes and how we knew so little about them, especially predicting if they would erupt, when this occurred. While in the middle of reading this story, I pulled up video footage of the aftermath of the eruption and the way Rita describes the events that unfold is perfection. Mother Nature is truly something to behold — beautiful and dangerous.
Cano and Allie are wonderful characters…flawed…perfectly imperfect, which makes them so relatable. My heart ached for them and the loss of time they’d experienced after breaking up 4 years prior to the book’s events. There were definitely moments when I got choked up, moments when I laughed, moments that made me anxious, and moments when I cheered. I don’t want to go into specifics and spoil any of the story, but I’d encourage anyone who enjoys a second-chance romance and a bit of historical fiction to give this book a read. You’ll be glad you did.
September 29, 2023
Well that was fun.
All right, who am I kidding? It was awesome! I guess I lived through the eruption, though I’m not sure I’d have even been aware of that yesterday. But the book really brought it to life in a way I couldn’t have imagined. Not to mention there was this pretty good romance too. Though, for the younger of the two being in her 30s, OMG it had all the angst of a pair of teenagers! 🤣
OK, also… that very last line scored pretty high on the cheese-o-meter. (Which, I’m saying that with a big fat grin on my face :)
So, while this didn’t quite tick all my boxes — how can you have an 80s tale with no bowling or roller-skating, lol — it had fun characters, plentiful humor to accompany the drama, a cool setting, and a great story-behind-the-story. I’d happily recommend.
All right, who am I kidding? It was awesome! I guess I lived through the eruption, though I’m not sure I’d have even been aware of that yesterday. But the book really brought it to life in a way I couldn’t have imagined. Not to mention there was this pretty good romance too. Though, for the younger of the two being in her 30s, OMG it had all the angst of a pair of teenagers! 🤣
OK, also… that very last line scored pretty high on the cheese-o-meter. (Which, I’m saying that with a big fat grin on my face :)
So, while this didn’t quite tick all my boxes — how can you have an 80s tale with no bowling or roller-skating, lol — it had fun characters, plentiful humor to accompany the drama, a cool setting, and a great story-behind-the-story. I’d happily recommend.
October 8, 2025
This book caught my attention because I have a personal connection to the 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens. I was pleasantly surprised that I enjoyed this book for so many reasons beyond the background story of the volcanic eruption. All the objects and daily life stuff at the time of this story were historically accurate, at least from what I remember. Little things made me smile, like getting a Rubik's Cube as a gift, and worrying about the potential impact on someone's health if they have a microwave in their home. And I am so impressed with how well the author represented a world with no cell phones.
This was my very first book by Rita Potter, and I can't wait to listen to another one.
This was my very first book by Rita Potter, and I can't wait to listen to another one.
July 21, 2024
Story took me back to the eruption
My girlfriend and I were on a job hunting trip from Montana. We interviewed in Spokane, Seattle, Portland and Medford. On the way back, we went out along the coast. My car only had an AM radio and when we were not aware of the mountain blowing. We only found out about it when we visited my uncle in Vancouver Wa. I purchased an extra air filter and we ended up taking the Southern route through Idaho to get back to Billings. The description of the devastation was great. We witnessed the ash fallout all the way back to Billings Mt.
My girlfriend and I were on a job hunting trip from Montana. We interviewed in Spokane, Seattle, Portland and Medford. On the way back, we went out along the coast. My car only had an AM radio and when we were not aware of the mountain blowing. We only found out about it when we visited my uncle in Vancouver Wa. I purchased an extra air filter and we ended up taking the Southern route through Idaho to get back to Billings. The description of the devastation was great. We witnessed the ash fallout all the way back to Billings Mt.
April 1, 2023
A true story about Mount St. Helen intricately woven around a second-chance romance. The diagnosis of Allie’s multiple sclerosis (MS) caused the couple to break up four years previous. Both the main characters blamed themselves and it took a volcanic eruption to bring them to their senses. Rita Potter has become one of my favorite authors and in line with recommending this excellent book I look forward to her next contribution to saphic literature.
October 12, 2023
Nostalgic
A little like a tour down memory lane with certain details Rita Potter mentioned like Cano’s hairstyle, which I wasn’t crazy about back then and parachute pants which I just bought a pair of though they are different from the ones in the 1980s. I really liked the history of Mount St. Helen’s as a character as well.
A little like a tour down memory lane with certain details Rita Potter mentioned like Cano’s hairstyle, which I wasn’t crazy about back then and parachute pants which I just bought a pair of though they are different from the ones in the 1980s. I really liked the history of Mount St. Helen’s as a character as well.
August 29, 2024
Good book
Cano and Allie a love that started early in life that had happiness and joy even with a nine year age gap. They plan to do do all kind of nerd and scientists things till Allie was diagnosed with MS. One thing leads to another and fours years is between them, until MT St. Helen brings them together again as but can they rise out of the Ashes? A wonderful story
Cano and Allie a love that started early in life that had happiness and joy even with a nine year age gap. They plan to do do all kind of nerd and scientists things till Allie was diagnosed with MS. One thing leads to another and fours years is between them, until MT St. Helen brings them together again as but can they rise out of the Ashes? A wonderful story
November 21, 2024
Wonderful
I couldn't put it down. I lived in Central California when St.Helens blew and I recall the ash. The fictional part of the story is great. My good friend has MS and has shared things with me, including she thought her life was over when she got diagnosed. The book brought it home to me. Thanks!
I couldn't put it down. I lived in Central California when St.Helens blew and I recall the ash. The fictional part of the story is great. My good friend has MS and has shared things with me, including she thought her life was over when she got diagnosed. The book brought it home to me. Thanks!
August 17, 2025
dynamic & enlightening
I was completely drawn into the story of Mt. St. Helen’s eruption 🌋. I remember the event but this was more powerful than the news of the time. The volcano between Cano & Allie align beautifully with the growing tension of volcanic eruption. I’m very glad to have read this one!!!
I was completely drawn into the story of Mt. St. Helen’s eruption 🌋. I remember the event but this was more powerful than the news of the time. The volcano between Cano & Allie align beautifully with the growing tension of volcanic eruption. I’m very glad to have read this one!!!
June 22, 2023
Excellent story
I don't know if this is historically accurate or not. Based on many of the details, you can tell the author did a lot of research. Very well told story with great characters. Highly recommend.
I don't know if this is historically accurate or not. Based on many of the details, you can tell the author did a lot of research. Very well told story with great characters. Highly recommend.
September 12, 2023
Well I thoroughly enjoyed this!it was nerdy and fun sapphic romance .It was nice to see one of the main characters having ms and how that would work in a relationship also it's very 80s and I pretty much love anything 80s
December 15, 2023
great read
As always author has done an amazing job.
I’ve not read any of hers that I don’t thoroughly enjoy.
It’s even more emotional that it’s about a real event.
I would definitely recommend this book
As always author has done an amazing job.
I’ve not read any of hers that I don’t thoroughly enjoy.
It’s even more emotional that it’s about a real event.
I would definitely recommend this book
March 16, 2023
Thoroughly enjoyed it.
From the beginning, I was caught up in the two main characters lives. The feelings associated with them kept me reading without fail. Keep them coming.
From the beginning, I was caught up in the two main characters lives. The feelings associated with them kept me reading without fail. Keep them coming.
March 30, 2024
POPSUGAR 2024 Prompt #43: second chance romance
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews