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Brushfire Plague: Volume 1 by R.P. Ruggiero
The Brushfire Plague made the Spanish Flu Pandemic of 1918 look like a case of the common cold.
When a virulent plague erupts across the globe, Cooper Adams faces a daily battle for survival as society unravels at a dizzying pace. As he organizes his neighbors for self-defense and strives to save those around him, he soon discovers the first clues about the origin of the Brushfire Plague that is killing untold millions around the world. In his pursuit to learn the truth, Cooper must combat looters, organized gangs, and those protecting the Brushfire Plague's secrets. When his son falls ill, his search to uncover the plague's origin and a possible cure transforms into a race against time. Ultimately, Cooper faces a paralyzing choice between exposing what he has learned with potentially shattering consequences, or abetting a horrible secret and giving his nation a chance to recover and rebuild.
Surviving the Plague was just the beginning...
When a virulent plague erupts across the globe, Cooper Adams faces a daily battle for survival as society unravels at a dizzying pace. As he organizes his neighbors for self-defense and strives to save those around him, he soon discovers the first clues about the origin of the Brushfire Plague that is killing untold millions around the world. In his pursuit to learn the truth, Cooper must combat looters, organized gangs, and those protecting the Brushfire Plague's secrets. When his son falls ill, his search to uncover the plague's origin and a possible cure transforms into a race against time. Ultimately, Cooper faces a paralyzing choice between exposing what he has learned with potentially shattering consequences, or abetting a horrible secret and giving his nation a chance to recover and rebuild.
Surviving the Plague was just the beginning...
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First published July 29, 2012
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
February 27, 2013
"Brushfire Plague" by R.P. Ruggiero was an excellent dystopian (not utopian) apocalyptic book where a plague cuts loose and starts wiping out society. I would have given this one a fifth star, but the scope was more or less limited to the USA and I rather like those worldwide novels where everybody catches a cold. Plus, there were not any Zombies in the book.
The "Brushfire" word in the title simply means the plague spreads as fast as a brushfire. The main character lose his wife but still has his son with him. They are in a city, as as all apocalyptic pros know, the Liberal Urban Cities fall first when society begins to disintegrate. You do not live in an urban area without a stockpile of guns and ammo.
But, this guy has a neighbor who has a closet full of guns, and happens to be pretty handy taking care of bad guys and watching his back. The suburban addition he lives in gets barricaded and they spend the book time beating back the people trying to break-in. Kind of like what was in "Lights Out", one of the great books on this subject.
I liked it. Good book. Not sure if there is a sequel but if there is, I would be tempted to buy it.
The "Brushfire" word in the title simply means the plague spreads as fast as a brushfire. The main character lose his wife but still has his son with him. They are in a city, as as all apocalyptic pros know, the Liberal Urban Cities fall first when society begins to disintegrate. You do not live in an urban area without a stockpile of guns and ammo.
But, this guy has a neighbor who has a closet full of guns, and happens to be pretty handy taking care of bad guys and watching his back. The suburban addition he lives in gets barricaded and they spend the book time beating back the people trying to break-in. Kind of like what was in "Lights Out", one of the great books on this subject.
I liked it. Good book. Not sure if there is a sequel but if there is, I would be tempted to buy it.
December 24, 2017
Good Story. Basic writing
I enjoyed the story and premise behind it. However, the writing and character development was basic at best. However, the book was entertaining enough that I will read the next book in the series.
I enjoyed the story and premise behind it. However, the writing and character development was basic at best. However, the book was entertaining enough that I will read the next book in the series.
April 22, 2019
This fed my fascination with doomsday situations. Several parts were not at all believable. Still on the whole it gave some good takeaways to think about. And the NW setting made it more interesting to me.
August 23, 2019
Surprisingly well written. Did enjoy it and it was educational too!
February 20, 2016
What would you do to save your family from a deadly virus?
Story — 4 out of 5.
Narration — 2 out of 5.
Overall — 3 out of 5.
A mysterious virus is here and it is extremely lethal, killing more than 50 percent of all of those who come in contact with it. Cooper Adams realizes that he must get home and take care of his family. What follows is his story of survival and helping those around him survive too.
The narration of this almost made this unlistenable. About halfway through, I nearly stopped listening and just finished by reading it. I don’t really like to speak ill of a professionals work, but this appears to be the narrator’s first go at narration. Unfortunately, it really seems to take away from a well-written story. But, at the same time, I can imagine getting narration for your first book isn’t the easiest either.
Cooper Adams is an interesting lead character. He’s both likable and at times, he just does what needs to be done. Which, in a case like the book is portraying, I can fully get an understand. Adams isn’t your typical prepper, nor is he your military “I’ll do whatever I can to survive” kind of guy. But he is one thing, a survivor.
The disease behind Brushfire Plague was given some thought, thankfully. Recently I’ve been reading some books lately that are pegged with “plague” in the title that has little-to-no mention of the actual virus or plague that is destroying humanity. While Ruggiero doesn’t go into super deep detail like others have that I love, he does do a good enough job to make it believable.
Brushfire Plague really felt like it took a while to develop. Normally this is done for deep character development, but in this case, it just felt like the story didn’t shift into high gear until after the midway point of the book. For some readers, this could be a big problem. I’m wondering if the second book in this series will start at a faster pace and keep it there instead of dragging it out like this one did.
Like I mentioned above, Brushfire Plague was a great book marred by a really poor narration choice. First and foremost if you are going to be portraying a manly survival-instinct laden male — why is there a female narrator? It was a severe bummer for me that this books narration took away from it instead of added to it. It definitely has the potential to be a big player.
Like this review? See more like it at Brian's Book Blog
Story — 4 out of 5.
Narration — 2 out of 5.
Overall — 3 out of 5.
A mysterious virus is here and it is extremely lethal, killing more than 50 percent of all of those who come in contact with it. Cooper Adams realizes that he must get home and take care of his family. What follows is his story of survival and helping those around him survive too.
The narration of this almost made this unlistenable. About halfway through, I nearly stopped listening and just finished by reading it. I don’t really like to speak ill of a professionals work, but this appears to be the narrator’s first go at narration. Unfortunately, it really seems to take away from a well-written story. But, at the same time, I can imagine getting narration for your first book isn’t the easiest either.
Cooper Adams is an interesting lead character. He’s both likable and at times, he just does what needs to be done. Which, in a case like the book is portraying, I can fully get an understand. Adams isn’t your typical prepper, nor is he your military “I’ll do whatever I can to survive” kind of guy. But he is one thing, a survivor.
The disease behind Brushfire Plague was given some thought, thankfully. Recently I’ve been reading some books lately that are pegged with “plague” in the title that has little-to-no mention of the actual virus or plague that is destroying humanity. While Ruggiero doesn’t go into super deep detail like others have that I love, he does do a good enough job to make it believable.
Brushfire Plague really felt like it took a while to develop. Normally this is done for deep character development, but in this case, it just felt like the story didn’t shift into high gear until after the midway point of the book. For some readers, this could be a big problem. I’m wondering if the second book in this series will start at a faster pace and keep it there instead of dragging it out like this one did.
Like I mentioned above, Brushfire Plague was a great book marred by a really poor narration choice. First and foremost if you are going to be portraying a manly survival-instinct laden male — why is there a female narrator? It was a severe bummer for me that this books narration took away from it instead of added to it. It definitely has the potential to be a big player.
Like this review? See more like it at Brian's Book Blog
November 1, 2012
This is one of those times that I wish Goodreads had the ability for a half star, as 3.5 seemed better, but since I can't, I will rank it up instead of down.
I enjoyed this book very much. I like end of the world, plague breakout books. This one seemed to flow like most of what I read, including having the gun nut friend that has enough firearms to arm the neighborhood.
What sets this book apart from others in the genre is the origin of the plague. I won't give it away, and I did figure it out before it was told, but no where near early enough to ruin the story.
The reasons behind a slightly lower stars, is the ending and the main charactor.
Cooper does not believe that a lie is EVER allowed. Any husband will tell you this is unreasonable....
The ending was too abrupt. Maybe the author was setting up for a sequel. It was a good fast read. Enjoy!
I enjoyed this book very much. I like end of the world, plague breakout books. This one seemed to flow like most of what I read, including having the gun nut friend that has enough firearms to arm the neighborhood.
What sets this book apart from others in the genre is the origin of the plague. I won't give it away, and I did figure it out before it was told, but no where near early enough to ruin the story.
The reasons behind a slightly lower stars, is the ending and the main charactor.
Cooper does not believe that a lie is EVER allowed. Any husband will tell you this is unreasonable....
The ending was too abrupt. Maybe the author was setting up for a sequel. It was a good fast read. Enjoy!
November 14, 2012
This book grabs you from the start. The scenario Ruggiero sets up is both familiar and terrifying all at the same time. Picture so many of those around you, including loved ones suddenly falling ill. Then as the rest of the city, country and world are all dealing with the same problem, normalcy falls apart and neighbors are forced to come together. Friendships are strained and unforeseen disasters arise. Ruggiero, does a great job of taking you into the smell and feeling of being there with the characters.
This isn't a "purchase this list if you want to survive" kind of novel. He gets enough into the gear descriptions for those of us that enjoy that kind of detail but he doesn't dwell on it. Instead he keeps the pace going strong from beginning to end.
This isn't a "purchase this list if you want to survive" kind of novel. He gets enough into the gear descriptions for those of us that enjoy that kind of detail but he doesn't dwell on it. Instead he keeps the pace going strong from beginning to end.
January 25, 2016
This novel looked at the impact of a fast-moving plague which has a devastating effect on the population of the United States and countries around the world. Set in Portland, Oregon, the plot revolves around a man and his family who face not only the impact of the plague's devastating health effects, but also on the collapse of society around him. While the genre is well-established, the use of the spread of a pandemic illness is a twist and quite timely given the recent spread of the Ebola virus.
I found the book entertaining, but some of the plot elements were quite far-fetched. It seems unbelievable that the root of this disease just happens to live in the main character's home town.
If you enjoy post-apocalyptic fiction, you will probably enjoy this novel.
I found the book entertaining, but some of the plot elements were quite far-fetched. It seems unbelievable that the root of this disease just happens to live in the main character's home town.
If you enjoy post-apocalyptic fiction, you will probably enjoy this novel.
September 23, 2012
I am the author, so visit the links below to see what others are saying about Brushfire Plague!
http://www.amazon.com/Brushfire-Plagu...
http://www.brushfireplague.com
I look forward to your reviews here!
Merged review:
I am the author of this work, so please see below for other's reviews. I look forward to your reviews here!
http://www.amazon.com/Brushfire-Plagu...
http://www.brushfireplague.com
thank you!
http://www.amazon.com/Brushfire-Plagu...
http://www.brushfireplague.com
I look forward to your reviews here!
Merged review:
I am the author of this work, so please see below for other's reviews. I look forward to your reviews here!
http://www.amazon.com/Brushfire-Plagu...
http://www.brushfireplague.com
thank you!
November 13, 2012
This book was a very, very good read. It is riveting and I finished it in two sittings; staying up late to finish it. I don't normally read apocalyptic fiction, but really enjoyed this one. The character development was great and I couldn't wait to find out what was going to happen next! I liked how it finished, leaving room for a sequel, but closing up the main tale.
One warning: this book might have you thinking about what YOU would do in the event of a deadly pandemic. It definitely pulled ME in!
One warning: this book might have you thinking about what YOU would do in the event of a deadly pandemic. It definitely pulled ME in!
April 12, 2013
Without giving away any plot points I'll simply say that this book begins with the onset of a devastating and fast-moving flu pandemic and the efforts residents of a Portland suburb undertake to withstand the impacts and reactions to it. I found the story very plausible and well written. It certainly kept my interest throughout and at no point did I roll my eyes (often a problem with apocalyptic fiction). If you enjoy that genre I suggest giving this book a try. I plan to follow this author's work closely.
September 2, 2013
Loved the book tremendously! Very descriptive, making you feel like you are hanging out, participating, and even having breakfast with the characters. Not only is this a good story but it also has some good tips on character interactions and group interactions during a time of crisis. It is quite refreshing to be able to learn something useful and R.P. Ruggeiro's experience in group dynamics really shines through. Definitely a recommended read and I hope there is a book #2!
February 28, 2013
I enjoyed the book. It's one of my favorite genres, so I've read almost every fiction book out there, and quite a few non fiction ones as well, on the "plague" topic. Only negative I can say is that the hero seemed confused. He could be cold-blooded, clearheaded, and straightforward, but then he would be forgiving in very unexpected places.
The reason for the plague revealed at the end of the book was interesting.
I liked the book well enough that I will read the sequel...
The reason for the plague revealed at the end of the book was interesting.
I liked the book well enough that I will read the sequel...
December 11, 2012
I read a good bit of apocalyotic fiction and I would put this on the top shelve. I only hated that the main character is so quick to kill. The story focused a lot on how fast society would break down. It makes me want to order more ammo.
It left it pretty open ended so that the author can let us know what happens next.
It left it pretty open ended so that the author can let us know what happens next.
April 28, 2016
Very masculine
I read a lot of these types of books....and this one kept it real...no super hero...just real people...however it was told from a very masculine point of view and a lot of words talked about the weapons where I wish more was used about the circumstances and relationships.
I read a lot of these types of books....and this one kept it real...no super hero...just real people...however it was told from a very masculine point of view and a lot of words talked about the weapons where I wish more was used about the circumstances and relationships.
December 2, 2012
Excellent book, reminded me of "Lucifer's Hammer".
The author emailed me and based on my reading history recommend this book, and I am thankful. I applaud the authors initiative to contact potential readers.
Highly recommend.
The author emailed me and based on my reading history recommend this book, and I am thankful. I applaud the authors initiative to contact potential readers.
Highly recommend.
March 18, 2013
I read this book in a couple of block sessions because I just could not put it down. Love this genre and this book is right there with the best if them. Great plot, very well thought out and riveting enough to keep those pages turning. Great book.
July 5, 2013
This book lacks the elegance of gone and the partials, however, it is my favorite type of book so it gets 5 stars from me. A killer plague and a communities attempt at survival along with some interesting plot twists made this an excellent read for me.
December 14, 2013
Emotionally powerful high energy account of of a neighborhood plunged into a sudden plague infested world.
Excellent read and a real page turner!
Excellent read and a real page turner!
September 20, 2013
Light weight, but a decent quick read. Ends quickly.
January 4, 2020
I liked this book. The story line and characters were quite good. Mystery about the deliberate nature of the virus set up the next book well.
November 22, 2015
Post-apocalyptic fiction. Needs a good editor and an even better proofreader. Similar style and content to Rawles.
October 5, 2016
Great story
I love these stories about the possible future. This was well written and the book lacked the profanity that so many writers think the reading public wants.
I love these stories about the possible future. This was well written and the book lacked the profanity that so many writers think the reading public wants.
October 15, 2016
I just can't anymore. Gah.
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews