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The After #1
After Today
Can love survive an apocalypse?
After a deadly virus ravages Chicago and destroys Mackenzie Lyons’ carefully curated world, Mac escapes the devastation and horror to her childhood hometown with the help of her best-friend’s little brother, Jake. But the small-minded community of Sanford isn’t exactly welcoming, and the virus isn’t the only battle brewing.
Jake Brent has secretly loved Mac forever, and while this isn’t the way he’d dreamed of their relationship beginning, with the uncertainty of the outbreak he’ll take every opportunity with Mac he can and hope—pray—for a better future.
But when Sanford’s misogynistic council torment the survivors with horrifying demands and a lawless motorcycle gang threatens their fragile sanctuary, somehow Jake and Mackenzie must form new alliances and face down dangerous enemies in a struggle far worse than the outbreak.
Surviving the virus was one thing, surviving humanity after is another.
After a deadly virus ravages Chicago and destroys Mackenzie Lyons’ carefully curated world, Mac escapes the devastation and horror to her childhood hometown with the help of her best-friend’s little brother, Jake. But the small-minded community of Sanford isn’t exactly welcoming, and the virus isn’t the only battle brewing.
Jake Brent has secretly loved Mac forever, and while this isn’t the way he’d dreamed of their relationship beginning, with the uncertainty of the outbreak he’ll take every opportunity with Mac he can and hope—pray—for a better future.
But when Sanford’s misogynistic council torment the survivors with horrifying demands and a lawless motorcycle gang threatens their fragile sanctuary, somehow Jake and Mackenzie must form new alliances and face down dangerous enemies in a struggle far worse than the outbreak.
Surviving the virus was one thing, surviving humanity after is another.
300 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 1, 2023
407 people are currently reading
286 people want to read
About the author
Jacqueline Hayley
13 books46 followersJacqueline picked up her first Mills & Boon novel when she was 14, and fell head over heels in love with the romance of a happily-ever-after.
Sweet Valley High just couldn’t compete after she got hooked on plucky heroines and dashing heroes.
She has a Bachelor Degree in Print Journalism but, having always been tempted to embellish the facts of a story, decided she was more suited to writing works of fiction.
She writes in between wrangling two daughters and her very own tall, handsome husband. *wink wink*
IG | www.instagram.com/jacquelinehayleyrom...
FB | www.facebook.com/jacquelinehayleyromance
Sweet Valley High just couldn’t compete after she got hooked on plucky heroines and dashing heroes.
She has a Bachelor Degree in Print Journalism but, having always been tempted to embellish the facts of a story, decided she was more suited to writing works of fiction.
She writes in between wrangling two daughters and her very own tall, handsome husband. *wink wink*
IG | www.instagram.com/jacquelinehayleyrom...
FB | www.facebook.com/jacquelinehayleyromance
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
February 26, 2023
Thank you Jacqueline for gifting us a copy to read and review.
Apocalyptic is the total destruction of something, often referring to the world’s end.
History is full of near apocalyptic events making this popular genre quite visionary and spookily real.
We have all for instance witnessed and been polarised by covid, watched on our screens the Taliban in action and know how policy and enforcement attempted to wipe out the Jews.
A deadly virus is ravaging the world in a speedy manner and not much is known. Chicago and it’s surrounds politically and socially collapse as they scramble to protect the unaffected and wield policy that threatens peace and order.
Mackenzie escapes the city and heads to her childhood home town hoping to escape mayhem and risk.
Assisted by long term friend Jake who has had a massive crush on her.
Love will have to endure obstacles, misogynist rules and defiant thugs in a society that’s crumbling and fear governs.
I really enjoyed my escape into this dystopian world and follow the plight and the lust of the main characters.
It was immersive and captured realistic people who could have easily been put in this position.
Being book one the reader can only wonder what happens next.
Apocalyptic is the total destruction of something, often referring to the world’s end.
History is full of near apocalyptic events making this popular genre quite visionary and spookily real.
We have all for instance witnessed and been polarised by covid, watched on our screens the Taliban in action and know how policy and enforcement attempted to wipe out the Jews.
A deadly virus is ravaging the world in a speedy manner and not much is known. Chicago and it’s surrounds politically and socially collapse as they scramble to protect the unaffected and wield policy that threatens peace and order.
Mackenzie escapes the city and heads to her childhood home town hoping to escape mayhem and risk.
Assisted by long term friend Jake who has had a massive crush on her.
Love will have to endure obstacles, misogynist rules and defiant thugs in a society that’s crumbling and fear governs.
I really enjoyed my escape into this dystopian world and follow the plight and the lust of the main characters.
It was immersive and captured realistic people who could have easily been put in this position.
Being book one the reader can only wonder what happens next.
October 23, 2023
3.5 ⭐️ Too extreme with good vs bad, too quickly.
First, the only real political views constantly used, is the toxic masculinity idea.
The brief comments at the beginning by the FMC, simply established who the character was, and then weren’t mentioned again.
Saying the author is shoving her politics into the story is completely overblown, and ridiculous, because what is a story, but the authors creation, made up of their beliefs.
If you disagree, don’t read. If you find them harmful or offensive, comment and move on. But leave of the personal remarks, irrelevant to the review.
As for my issues regarding the overall theme…It’s not that I disagree that this could or would occur, or even that a certain portion would give into it so quickly.
My complaint is that a larger portion of men disagree with this mentality and justification nowadays.
I find it difficult to believe that a whole town will give over, after only a few days..
Surely there would be more people opposing, more questioning? All the women wouldn’t just give in and accept that level of stupidity that quickly?
What about all the professional women still needed?
It’s just too fast.
As was the government turning on the general population, and the lack of a greater military presence early on.
There are numerous organisations created for the very real possibility of a pandemic.
While it might not be even close to perfect, it’s also not this.
Last massive pet peeve, if you’re going to include some sort of illness or disease, then do you’re research. Especially with such a common, well established one.
Otherwise you have readers becoming very annoyed and frustrated by inaccuracies and ridiculous plot holes.
So, other than those parts, it was very well written, conversational dialogue [really, really hate all the ‘babes’, but he was 23 😮💨 🫠].
Awesome pace, and great story arc.
Didn’t like some of the choices and behaviours by the MC’s, but they were all sadly believable, and added a depth that having them be perfect would have ruined.
These are not your know it all, prepared preppers, with expert gun skills, and mad fighting skills 😂
These are ordinary people trying to survive.
Two different kinds of story, both awesome in their own rights, in my humble taste.
Cliffhanger, with B2 focusing on different characters, but obviously going to include the former.
Has a strong bent towards the romance included, which also moves faster than preferred. But also mostly believable considering the ages and stress of the circumstances [it’s when things finally calm down that the truth would be revealed..].
I will check out B2.
Ooh, ooh, NO ZOMBIES! 🥳 🤩
First, the only real political views constantly used, is the toxic masculinity idea.
The brief comments at the beginning by the FMC, simply established who the character was, and then weren’t mentioned again.
Saying the author is shoving her politics into the story is completely overblown, and ridiculous, because what is a story, but the authors creation, made up of their beliefs.
If you disagree, don’t read. If you find them harmful or offensive, comment and move on. But leave of the personal remarks, irrelevant to the review.
As for my issues regarding the overall theme…It’s not that I disagree that this could or would occur, or even that a certain portion would give into it so quickly.
My complaint is that a larger portion of men disagree with this mentality and justification nowadays.
I find it difficult to believe that a whole town will give over, after only a few days..
Surely there would be more people opposing, more questioning? All the women wouldn’t just give in and accept that level of stupidity that quickly?
What about all the professional women still needed?
It’s just too fast.
As was the government turning on the general population, and the lack of a greater military presence early on.
There are numerous organisations created for the very real possibility of a pandemic.
While it might not be even close to perfect, it’s also not this.
Last massive pet peeve, if you’re going to include some sort of illness or disease, then do you’re research. Especially with such a common, well established one.
Otherwise you have readers becoming very annoyed and frustrated by inaccuracies and ridiculous plot holes.
So, other than those parts, it was very well written, conversational dialogue [really, really hate all the ‘babes’, but he was 23 😮💨 🫠].
Awesome pace, and great story arc.
Didn’t like some of the choices and behaviours by the MC’s, but they were all sadly believable, and added a depth that having them be perfect would have ruined.
These are not your know it all, prepared preppers, with expert gun skills, and mad fighting skills 😂
These are ordinary people trying to survive.
Two different kinds of story, both awesome in their own rights, in my humble taste.
Cliffhanger, with B2 focusing on different characters, but obviously going to include the former.
Has a strong bent towards the romance included, which also moves faster than preferred. But also mostly believable considering the ages and stress of the circumstances [it’s when things finally calm down that the truth would be revealed..].
I will check out B2.
Ooh, ooh, NO ZOMBIES! 🥳 🤩
October 15, 2021
I was hooked from the opening sentence. Jacqueline Hayley has created a world that descends into chaos and anarchy almost immediately. Book 1 introduces us to Mac and tells the tale through her eyes. Jake is the man who's loved her since he was a boy, and his point of view come from an entirely different angle. As they wake each day to a new horror, the author captures this perfectly on the page, leaving the reader wondering how anyone will survive. But survive they must. This book sets the stage for an epic series that tests the loyalty and mettle of every character. The story stayed with me long after I read the last page. Cannot wait for Book 2.
January 19, 2022
Realistic, immersive, and hot apocalyptic romance that kept me up way too late!
Mackenzie was totally unprepared for the end of the world.
The story starts with a pandemic brewing out of Syria, having moved into Europe, and it may be within the US now. The President is denying it. People are saying it is a hoax to control us, much the same as people are now saying about COVID in real life.
Jake risks everything to go get Mackenzie from Chicago when things start to disintegrate.
I found the beginning very realistic, especially with what we’ve seen actually happen. The insanity of a panicked city population with the looting, wanton destruction, and guns was very realistically described as Mackenzie and Jake tried to gather supplies before leaving Chicago.
Mackenzie cries, whimpers, and complains quite a bit. But it is a realistic reaction. She watched soldiers gun down civilians, ran home barefoot and got lots of blisters, got through the looting, and is now walking on her blistered feet and witnessing death all around her. She is an environmental lawyer, a city dweller, book smart instead of street smart, and tends to live in her own head, blocking out much of reality. So she isn’t prepared for this. All in all, I think she holds up well in the beginning. I expected she would grow stronger, turn into a survivor as time passed.
Jake quickly became Mackenzie’s rock. He’s a mechanic, just the sort of man I would want with me in the apocalypse.
Jake’s declaration of love and Mackenzie’s budding attraction to him made her uncomfortable at first. Jake was her best friend’s little brother, just three years younger, so nothing weird. So it took some time for Mackenzie to change her view of him.
I loved this novel. I found the situation and the characters to be very realistic, so it was immersive to read. I know I keep repeating this “realistic” bit, but it truly is remarkable in this genre. I didn’t have to suspend disbelief – I believed!
I truly liked the main characters. Neither is perfect, so that makes them relatable. They are both strong when they need to be and vulnerable with each other. There is a nice build to the relationship. Jake lays his heart bare, but he doesn’t push Mackenzie. He’s not an alpha male, you’re mine, type. This was refreshing and sweet.
It was a very fast read with excellent pacing. There was quite a bit of action, which was very well written – clear but concisely described, so things moved along very quickly. There are some scorching hot sex scenes, but this is definitely much more story than erotica. I felt it added the right level of spice to the meat of the overall story.
I don’t want to give too much away, but Mackenzie does grow throughout this novel, eventually becoming a bit of a badass. I absolutely loved that she didn’t need a man to save her! Girl power! Woot! Woot! 😊
Amongst the chaos are little moments of very welcome comedy.
It relieves the tension here and there and stops this from being too depressing. As Jake says:
And Mackenzie is a dog lover! My love of her grew exponentially the moment I found that out! 😊
This had my rolling with laughter:
Writers of apocalyptic and post-apocalyptic novels do. Hey! That’s us! So a little fun was poked at the author herself. Loved it!
If you’re with us, fantasizing about the end of the world, picturing yourself driving down a completely empty interstate instead of being in your traffic jam reality, this is a must read!
This is the first book in a series but can be read as a standalone. Future books will be centered on other main characters, but we will see Mackenzie and Jake as secondary characters. This has a great ending. We know the story continues, and it definitely makes me want to read the next book. But we aren’t left with a nasty cliffhanger. Like the characters, I can wait, and plan, and survive.
Contains graphic sex scenes. Very hot ones. But only really three.
Occasional foul language. I loved Mackenzie’s mantra.
3rd person past tense from Mackenzie and Jake.
Errors: 8 (misspelled words, wrong word, missing word, a name spelled differently in two places, inconsistent punctuation, a missing quotation mark) Not bad at all! I sent these errors to the author, so I hope she’ll fix them soon.
UPDATE: Errors have been fixed!
I received a copy of this for my honest review.
Mackenzie was totally unprepared for the end of the world.
She wasn’t a heroine in some Hollywood blockbuster. She was a twenty-six-year-old environmental lawyer, living in Lincoln Park and trying to forget Sanford, the hometown she knew had forgotten her the moment she’d skipped out.
The story starts with a pandemic brewing out of Syria, having moved into Europe, and it may be within the US now. The President is denying it. People are saying it is a hoax to control us, much the same as people are now saying about COVID in real life.
“This whole Syrian Virus is a hoax—it’s a conspiracy to control us.”
“It’s a plan-demic! Big pharma is behind it!”
Jake risks everything to go get Mackenzie from Chicago when things start to disintegrate.
“I’ve been in love with you since that day you sprained your ankle at the lake. Remember? I carried you to the car so you could go get it x-rayed.”
“That’s seven years ago, Jake.”
I found the beginning very realistic, especially with what we’ve seen actually happen. The insanity of a panicked city population with the looting, wanton destruction, and guns was very realistically described as Mackenzie and Jake tried to gather supplies before leaving Chicago.
Mackenzie cries, whimpers, and complains quite a bit. But it is a realistic reaction. She watched soldiers gun down civilians, ran home barefoot and got lots of blisters, got through the looting, and is now walking on her blistered feet and witnessing death all around her. She is an environmental lawyer, a city dweller, book smart instead of street smart, and tends to live in her own head, blocking out much of reality. So she isn’t prepared for this. All in all, I think she holds up well in the beginning. I expected she would grow stronger, turn into a survivor as time passed.
It was hard not to succumb to “damsel in distress” when every step rubbed her raw feet, her shoulders ached with the heavy pack, and she was tired. So tired.
Jake quickly became Mackenzie’s rock. He’s a mechanic, just the sort of man I would want with me in the apocalypse.
He welcomed—hell, he relished—the responsibility he felt for Mackenzie. Even when he dated other women, she was always somewhere in the back of his mind. Now, the instinct to care for her, to protect her, had strengthened to a tangible level. He could feel his dedication to her in the thrumming beat of his heart.
Jake’s declaration of love and Mackenzie’s budding attraction to him made her uncomfortable at first. Jake was her best friend’s little brother, just three years younger, so nothing weird. So it took some time for Mackenzie to change her view of him.
Jake was energized with purpose and Mackenzie took a moment to admire his assertiveness, the straightforward manner in which he’d taken control, allowing her a comforting warmth in his steadfast protection. Who knew making someone feel safe could be sexy?
I loved this novel. I found the situation and the characters to be very realistic, so it was immersive to read. I know I keep repeating this “realistic” bit, but it truly is remarkable in this genre. I didn’t have to suspend disbelief – I believed!
I truly liked the main characters. Neither is perfect, so that makes them relatable. They are both strong when they need to be and vulnerable with each other. There is a nice build to the relationship. Jake lays his heart bare, but he doesn’t push Mackenzie. He’s not an alpha male, you’re mine, type. This was refreshing and sweet.
It was a very fast read with excellent pacing. There was quite a bit of action, which was very well written – clear but concisely described, so things moved along very quickly. There are some scorching hot sex scenes, but this is definitely much more story than erotica. I felt it added the right level of spice to the meat of the overall story.
I don’t want to give too much away, but Mackenzie does grow throughout this novel, eventually becoming a bit of a badass. I absolutely loved that she didn’t need a man to save her! Girl power! Woot! Woot! 😊
Amongst the chaos are little moments of very welcome comedy.
“Don’t get weird on me. It’s just an erection. Happens most mornings.” He grinned.
“No. Nope, not going there.”
“It’s a normal bodily function.”
“Jake, stop! We are not talking about your dick.”
“You just did.”
It relieves the tension here and there and stops this from being too depressing. As Jake says:
He sighed. Why was everything so damn hard? Nothing was easy anymore. He prided himself on being resilient and practical, but was it too much to ask for a simple home ransacking to go to plan?
And Mackenzie is a dog lover! My love of her grew exponentially the moment I found that out! 😊
This had my rolling with laughter:
“That’s…. psychopathic, right? Who plays fantasy apocalypse?” Mackenzie’s question was met with silence…
Writers of apocalyptic and post-apocalyptic novels do. Hey! That’s us! So a little fun was poked at the author herself. Loved it!
If you’re with us, fantasizing about the end of the world, picturing yourself driving down a completely empty interstate instead of being in your traffic jam reality, this is a must read!
This is the first book in a series but can be read as a standalone. Future books will be centered on other main characters, but we will see Mackenzie and Jake as secondary characters. This has a great ending. We know the story continues, and it definitely makes me want to read the next book. But we aren’t left with a nasty cliffhanger. Like the characters, I can wait, and plan, and survive.
Contains graphic sex scenes. Very hot ones. But only really three.
Occasional foul language. I loved Mackenzie’s mantra.
3rd person past tense from Mackenzie and Jake.
Errors: 8 (misspelled words, wrong word, missing word, a name spelled differently in two places, inconsistent punctuation, a missing quotation mark) Not bad at all! I sent these errors to the author, so I hope she’ll fix them soon.
UPDATE: Errors have been fixed!
I received a copy of this for my honest review.
July 14, 2024
Spoiler.
Finally, The After series is on KU. I'm so happy. It's a riveting book that lived up to my expectations. We have a bit of romance with a side of spice added to it by our main characters, Mackenzie and Jake, and we also have Dex the Dog. There is a chauvinistic mayor in charge with bullies and abusers to back him up. Not everything runs smoothly. I thoroughly enjoyed After Today and I'm looking forward to reading the next book.
Finally, The After series is on KU. I'm so happy. It's a riveting book that lived up to my expectations. We have a bit of romance with a side of spice added to it by our main characters, Mackenzie and Jake, and we also have Dex the Dog. There is a chauvinistic mayor in charge with bullies and abusers to back him up. Not everything runs smoothly. I thoroughly enjoyed After Today and I'm looking forward to reading the next book.
July 15, 2023
No relationship development. The MMC spent the first 75% of this book mansplaining the entire situation regarding the town to her and disregarding what was happening in front of her, which he refused to see as anything but positive because he was a man who wasn't hindered by it. At one point he stayed silent when a woman was hit by one of the men and had the audacity to say ONLY IN HIS MIND that he was sickened by the silence of the other men because it made them complicit. He later says something in private, but it's immediately dismissed by the person he claims to look up to and that's it. Then, THEN he goes on to say the FMC couldn't understand his need to protect his family because she'd never had one. Wow. So that means she could have never had anyone she cared for at all? I hate this guy. At that point he even stated that he started resenting her for the time he spent with her (which was a total of one day) when he could have been with his grandmother. Mind you, this is all the way up to 75%.
How is this romance??? I really hoped they wouldn't end up together, but didn't get that wish.
After 75% is when the town leader's misogynistic and dictatorial finally effect the MMC, and his eyes are forced open because his girl (the FMC) is given to a biker gang in a bribe for safety. Suddenly he sees everything he didn't before, and after the girl saves herself, he apologizes to her for not believing what she was plainly telling him.
And they end up together.
And we don't even get an HEA, hell, absolutely none of the strings are tried up in this one. One couple is separated from their children. The main couple are separated from their family and friends. But they're starting a little homestead and I guess we have to read other books for anything to be resolved.
I really want the time I wasted reading this back.
How is this romance??? I really hoped they wouldn't end up together, but didn't get that wish.
After 75% is when the town leader's misogynistic and dictatorial finally effect the MMC, and his eyes are forced open because his girl (the FMC) is given to a biker gang in a bribe for safety. Suddenly he sees everything he didn't before, and after the girl saves herself, he apologizes to her for not believing what she was plainly telling him.
And they end up together.
And we don't even get an HEA, hell, absolutely none of the strings are tried up in this one. One couple is separated from their children. The main couple are separated from their family and friends. But they're starting a little homestead and I guess we have to read other books for anything to be resolved.
I really want the time I wasted reading this back.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 15, 2022
After Today by Jacqueline Hayley is a dystopian post-apocalyptic book with a great concept, amazing characters and a well-written plot.
I was sucked into the immersive world of this book right from the first page and was left wanting more after turning the last one. This book is full of ups and downs and that kept the tension so tight that it was impossible to put it down even for a minute. The writing is simple yet very effective and had a great flow. The execution of the plot and the world-building were spot-on and the characterisation felt realistic and relatable.
I enjoyed reading this book a lot and would highly recommend it to all dystopian and apocalyptic/post-apocalyptic genre fans. This book has a lot to offer to all its readers and I am sure that anyone who has the slightest interest in post-apocalyptic worlds would definitely enjoy it tremendously.
You can also watch the video review of this video on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RAVfC...
I was sucked into the immersive world of this book right from the first page and was left wanting more after turning the last one. This book is full of ups and downs and that kept the tension so tight that it was impossible to put it down even for a minute. The writing is simple yet very effective and had a great flow. The execution of the plot and the world-building were spot-on and the characterisation felt realistic and relatable.
I enjoyed reading this book a lot and would highly recommend it to all dystopian and apocalyptic/post-apocalyptic genre fans. This book has a lot to offer to all its readers and I am sure that anyone who has the slightest interest in post-apocalyptic worlds would definitely enjoy it tremendously.
You can also watch the video review of this video on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RAVfC...
October 26, 2022
Apocalyptic Romance. Hells yes! This has action, thrills, tension, heat (whoop whoop!) and *back of my hand to my forehead* swoon over Jake!
Fast pace, high stakes, great setting, did I mention heat?, wicked banter with besties you want to have drinks with on Friday night, and a mayor you want to reach into the pages to punch in the face! After Today did not let me put it down!
Jacqueline gives her characters such life, they're jumping off the page.
And personally, I'd LOVE to live in a world where whiskey was currency. Just sayin'.
Fast pace, high stakes, great setting, did I mention heat?, wicked banter with besties you want to have drinks with on Friday night, and a mayor you want to reach into the pages to punch in the face! After Today did not let me put it down!
Jacqueline gives her characters such life, they're jumping off the page.
And personally, I'd LOVE to live in a world where whiskey was currency. Just sayin'.
September 10, 2023
Honestly, I couldn't stand Mac throughout most of the book and Jake was a bit of a caveman once they got back to Stanford. I don't know, I just wasn't feeling the story much or Mac and Jake as a couple. The storyline didn't really hold my interest.
July 2, 2025
2⭐️
I was pleasantly surprised (with a palpable spark of joy) when the book unexpectedly ended at 87% 🥳
This was dry, convoluted, boring, poorly written, and lacked a cohesive plot and character development. Overall it was wack and just not good. I’m sad to have wasted my time pushing on when I should have dnfd before I started 😂😭
Unfortunately, this abruptly ended my summer apocalypse binge, giving me the ick for the entire genre. Hopefully the next 11 months bring better apocalypse lit and next summer’s binge will be better (and longer). So long dystopia ✌🏾
I was pleasantly surprised (with a palpable spark of joy) when the book unexpectedly ended at 87% 🥳
This was dry, convoluted, boring, poorly written, and lacked a cohesive plot and character development. Overall it was wack and just not good. I’m sad to have wasted my time pushing on when I should have dnfd before I started 😂😭
Unfortunately, this abruptly ended my summer apocalypse binge, giving me the ick for the entire genre. Hopefully the next 11 months bring better apocalypse lit and next summer’s binge will be better (and longer). So long dystopia ✌🏾
September 13, 2023
Mac is an environmental lawyer in Chicago. After fleeing her father and her hometown of Sanford, she's trying her best to build a new life. At least she was before the outbreak of an extremely contagious and wholly fatal virus.
Jake has been in love with Mac since high school. The younger brother of one of Mac's three best friends, he's kept his feelings to himself. As the virus spreads, he makes it his mission to pick Mac up in Chicago and bring her home to Sanford. When he realizes just how bad the virus is, he figures now's the time to get everything off his chest.
As the chemistry between them builds, they're forced to adapt to the world around them. Sanford has been taken over by the town council, and Mac and her three best friends quickly realize the all-male council is abusing it's power.
This was what I would consider a medium-burn romance, and I liked the apocalyptic setting with it's familiar tropes. It wasn't too deep, which was exactly what I was looking for. Curious to see where this series goes. Hoping the second book hits audible, since most of my literature consumption happens through audiobook these days.
Jake has been in love with Mac since high school. The younger brother of one of Mac's three best friends, he's kept his feelings to himself. As the virus spreads, he makes it his mission to pick Mac up in Chicago and bring her home to Sanford. When he realizes just how bad the virus is, he figures now's the time to get everything off his chest.
As the chemistry between them builds, they're forced to adapt to the world around them. Sanford has been taken over by the town council, and Mac and her three best friends quickly realize the all-male council is abusing it's power.
This was what I would consider a medium-burn romance, and I liked the apocalyptic setting with it's familiar tropes. It wasn't too deep, which was exactly what I was looking for. Curious to see where this series goes. Hoping the second book hits audible, since most of my literature consumption happens through audiobook these days.
August 1, 2022
I've been greatly neglecting my read list. This book has pulled me out of my funk to keep up with it. If you don't read the rest of my review and go with the tags, I'd say read this book. Jacqueline Hayley has just earned me as a follower after this story.
Mackenzie "Mac" is an environmental lawyer living in Chicago, and Jake is the younger brother of Mac's best friend, Chloe.
When Sy-V hits, Jake's obsession presents itself while he drops everything he's doing to find Mac and bring her back to their hometown of Sanford. Hayley has done a tasteful job in how Jake deals with his deep-seated feelings about Mac.
I enjoyed the banter between Jake and Mac, but I do wish there was more of their story. The next book looks like it's moving on to another of the friends in Mac's squad. (It's what the 4 women call themselves.). The pace was a little quick for my liking, but it didn't take away from how much I enjoyed this story.
Jake had been in love with her for a good bit of time, and it didn't take long for Mac either. I'm not into the insta-love, but I did like how strong she was. It was nice to see a female acknowledge their weaknesses and not continue to scream about how strong they are. I enjoy it when it's shown and not repetitively stated.
Again, I wish there was more between Jake and Mac. I think the story could have been dragged out a bit more. I would of definitely read sequels regarding these 2.
Lately, I've been burning through the post-apocalyptic genre looking for hidden gems. Surprisingly, with the world today, it's been difficult.
I'm happy there are more books coming in the series because I will be reading the next one. Please keep them coming Hayley!
Mackenzie "Mac" is an environmental lawyer living in Chicago, and Jake is the younger brother of Mac's best friend, Chloe.
When Sy-V hits, Jake's obsession presents itself while he drops everything he's doing to find Mac and bring her back to their hometown of Sanford. Hayley has done a tasteful job in how Jake deals with his deep-seated feelings about Mac.
I enjoyed the banter between Jake and Mac, but I do wish there was more of their story. The next book looks like it's moving on to another of the friends in Mac's squad. (It's what the 4 women call themselves.). The pace was a little quick for my liking, but it didn't take away from how much I enjoyed this story.
Jake had been in love with her for a good bit of time, and it didn't take long for Mac either. I'm not into the insta-love, but I did like how strong she was. It was nice to see a female acknowledge their weaknesses and not continue to scream about how strong they are. I enjoy it when it's shown and not repetitively stated.
Again, I wish there was more between Jake and Mac. I think the story could have been dragged out a bit more. I would of definitely read sequels regarding these 2.
Lately, I've been burning through the post-apocalyptic genre looking for hidden gems. Surprisingly, with the world today, it's been difficult.
I'm happy there are more books coming in the series because I will be reading the next one. Please keep them coming Hayley!
September 17, 2022
This taut romantic drama will have you on the edge of your seat! It jumps right into the action in Chapter 1 with an out-of-control global virus and desperate fight for survival, but don't be fooled by the bleak canvas upon which the love story is painted -- this is a character driven romance full of yearning, struggle, and steamy scenes. I was nervous about diving into something so close to home with a pandemic theme, but it was executed with all the action, angst, twists and turns of a post-apocalyptic prestige-TV drama. The quick collapse of society into chaos is gripping, with some truly loathsome baddies who exploit the lawlessness to seize power. Sexist "councils" with their boots on everyone's necks! Vicious marauding biker gangs! Looting and raids! The tension is next level. But through it all is woven bright threads of hope for a better tomorrow and the triumph of true love. (There's even an adorable dog! Big points for that.) What a ride! I devoured this in one sitting.
July 4, 2025
Con todas las emociones sucediendo pero…
•Mi opinión puede contener Spoilers.
•Esta destinada a ser un descargo personal no para que alguien más lea pero si lo haces y te ofende, me disculpo porque sé lo que es que te guste un libro y otros lo critiquen.
After Today de Jacqueline Hayley Serie The After libro 1
Argumento:
¿Puede el amor sobrevivir a un apocalipsis?
Después de que un virus mortal asola Chicago y destruye el mundo cuidadosamente curado de Mackenzie Lyons, Mac escapa de la devastación y el horror a su ciudad natal de la infancia con la ayuda del hermano pequeño de su mejor amiga, Jake. Pero la estrecha comunidad de mente de Sanford no es exactamente acogedora, y el virus no es la única batalla que se avecina.
Jake Brent ha amado secretamente a Mac desde siempre, y aunque esta no es la forma en que había soñado que comenzara su relación, con la incertidumbre del brote, aprovechará cada oportunidad con Mac que pueda y esperará, rezará, por un futuro mejor.
Pero cuando el consejo misógino de Sanford atormenta a los sobrevivientes con exigencias horripilantes y una pandilla de motociclistas sin ley amenaza su frágil santuario, Jake y Mackenzie deben formar nuevas alianzas y enfrentarse a peligrosos enemigos en una lucha mucho peor que el brote.
Sobrevivir al virus fue una cosa, sobrevivir a la humanidad después es otra.
Mi humilde opinión:
Romance postapocalíptico, durante un virus, pueblo pequeño, hermano pequeño de la mejor amiga, diferencia de edad, ella 26 y él 23, proximidad forzada.
La historia comienza con Mac que vive en Chicago y trabaja como abogada, comienza a notar que la gente esta hablando sobre un virus. Nadie cree que es para preocuparse pero ella nota que algo extraño esta sucediendo mientras va a la firma para buscar a su novio con quien trabaja. Buscándolo descubre que esta casado y que todos se van del edificio por un aviso de cuarentena en Chicago. Queda atrapada en la ciudad donde estalla el caos. Sus amigas que viven en su pueblo natal de Stanford le habían pedido que regresara pero ella no creyó que el virus seria algo tan grave, tampoco quería regresar a un lugar donde no la juzgan por los pecados de su padre. Su mejor amiga Chloe le había dicho que enviaría su hermano pequeño Jake para buscarla pero lo que ella no sabe es que a él no necesitan pedírselo, estuvo enamorado de Mac desde hace años, y apenas se entera de que ella esta en riesgo va a buscarla a la ciudad. Juntos intentan salir de Chicago huyendo de la locura de la gente, peligro y muerte, porque el virus no es solo una gripe pasajera, es altamente contagioso y termina matando a las personas en días. Cuando llegan a Sanford se dan cuenta que lo cerraron con hombres armados cuidando la entrada por ordenes del alcalde. Esto a Mac la preocupa porque no son hombres entrenados de la policía sino civiles. Al verlos los apuntan y no los dejan entrar de inmediato porque tienen que asegurarse de que no presenten síntomas. Mac y Jake son puestos en cuarentena pero de una manera un tanto hostil. Los dos están contentos de volver a ver sus amigos pero Mac no es bien recibida por muchos del pueblo. Si bien todos tienen una tarea para mantener el orden y la seguridad, es ordenado por el alcalde que solo quiere controlarlos.
Al principio Mac me frustró, era de esas heroínas tontas que no saben para donde correr cuando hay una emergencia y ella misma decía que no era una damisela en apuros? Y a veces actuaba como si todo fuera a pasar. Fue cómico el momento en que se da cuenta de que parece ser el fin del mundo y ella no empaco nada practico para la supervivencia. A pesar de que estaba viendo la terrible situación que se estaba viviendo, me molestaba que no despertara y se pusiera en modo supervivencia en lugar de quejarse. Esperé un poco mas de inteligencia y madurez de su parte. Se involucró con el hermano de la amiga y en lugar de hablar con ella sobre eso, actuaba culpable y se calló. Le di una oportunidad para ver como evolucionaba su personaje, si bien mejora, al final despierta y se defiende sus ideas ante Jake y luego de los motociclistas salvando a Caroline. No fue uno de mis favoritas y tampoco lo fue Jake.
Jake me cayó bien al inicio, cuando toma iniciativa y va a buscar a Mac a Chicago sin pensarlo dos veces, no dio vueltas y le confesó sus sentimientos pero después cuando se pone del lado del alcalde me enojó tanto que lo odie. Estaba siendo testigo del abuso de poder del alcalde y la crueldad de sus secuaces golpeando mujeres y castigado niños y él no reaccionó como esperaba. Puso la excusa que el alcalde hacia lo que hacia para protegerlos. Él debió estar del lado de la rebelión y no del alcalde desde el comienzo.
Pensé que el romance seria lindo pero me decepcionó que estuviera basado en la lujuria, es un romance con bastante spicy, lo que no esta mal y las escenas estuvieron muy bien, pero creo que con el tono de la historia no era el momento para ciertas cosas con un virus matando gente, familiares de los que no sabían si estaban vivos y otros peligros sucediendo. No era momento para que ellos estén teniendo sexo como si nada!
Por otro lado, me dejaba perpleja la falta de seriedad del grupo ante una crisis, hacían chistes y se emborrachaban en le peor de los momentos.
La historia tenia peligro, acción, suspenso, traición, pérdidas, incertidumbre, pasión, amor, amistad, drama, supervivencia, tenia casi todas las emociones sucediendo pero algunas puestas de una forma exagerada y poco lógica, con personajes que me terminaron frustrando. Me dejó pensando en la forma en que se manejó todo el tema con el virus, me pregunté por la ayuda, qué decía el gobierno y donde estaban los militares...
August 11, 2022
pleasantly surprised - romance in the apocalypse anyone?
I was intrigued to say the least when I came upon a new author to me who had written a post apocalyptic romance - they aren’t very common.
Several things I was very impressed with
1. It’s not all guns
2. It’s not all preppers
3. There’s Rex! Not even joking, he was my aww moment.
4. Falling for the best friends sibling/ siblings best friend was well done
5. It’s a create your own family - this is my jam!!
6. Read the book and tell me what else you think I should have had in my top 5!!
Off to find book 2 - and read the prequel!
I was intrigued to say the least when I came upon a new author to me who had written a post apocalyptic romance - they aren’t very common.
Several things I was very impressed with
1. It’s not all guns
2. It’s not all preppers
3. There’s Rex! Not even joking, he was my aww moment.
4. Falling for the best friends sibling/ siblings best friend was well done
5. It’s a create your own family - this is my jam!!
6. Read the book and tell me what else you think I should have had in my top 5!!
Off to find book 2 - and read the prequel!
January 21, 2023
1/4 star ⭐️
The only reason I gave 1 star is because Amazon made me. I made it all the way to page 2 when politics and pro choice were shoved in my face which was an immediate nope for me. I wish authors would realize that most people really don’t care what your viewpoints on politics or anything else are just write the story and keep your agenda to yourself. And for this to be a basically unknown author (compared to authors like King, Koontz, And Straub) to start out by smacking you in the face with their politics is just a poor decision. I don’t know where the 5 star reviews came from since I don’t even think it deserved the one I gave.
The only reason I gave 1 star is because Amazon made me. I made it all the way to page 2 when politics and pro choice were shoved in my face which was an immediate nope for me. I wish authors would realize that most people really don’t care what your viewpoints on politics or anything else are just write the story and keep your agenda to yourself. And for this to be a basically unknown author (compared to authors like King, Koontz, And Straub) to start out by smacking you in the face with their politics is just a poor decision. I don’t know where the 5 star reviews came from since I don’t even think it deserved the one I gave.
June 15, 2023
- 0000000000000000
Ill have my end of the world with a side of political platform and a soapbox to scream it out so everyone can know right from wrong ..my way .
Sorry keep your political opinion out of your fiction or get bad reviews from someone that reads and watches old old old tv and movies to get away from the crazy headed people shouting how right they are about everything in the world and uses their work as their battling ram .
Going on my do not read list for writer .
Ill have my end of the world with a side of political platform and a soapbox to scream it out so everyone can know right from wrong ..my way .
Sorry keep your political opinion out of your fiction or get bad reviews from someone that reads and watches old old old tv and movies to get away from the crazy headed people shouting how right they are about everything in the world and uses their work as their battling ram .
Going on my do not read list for writer .
November 27, 2021
Wow! This was one outstanding ride of a story!
What do you get when you layer a hot, hot, hot romance with great characters and a fast-paced, end of the world plot? One fantastic book! After Today had my heart racing, and I couldn’t put this book down till the last page. Can’t wait for more of this series!
What do you get when you layer a hot, hot, hot romance with great characters and a fast-paced, end of the world plot? One fantastic book! After Today had my heart racing, and I couldn’t put this book down till the last page. Can’t wait for more of this series!
February 4, 2022
Loved this book and can’t wait for the next in the series!!
May 30, 2023
DNF at 35%
Heroine is an embarrassment to women everywhere. Cringe worthy.
Heroine is an embarrassment to women everywhere. Cringe worthy.
January 4, 2025
The best way to explain the series:
Four best friends and their love interests, with small-town romance vibes, in a post-apocalyptic setting.
Tropes:
✅️ Best friends, little brother
✅️ MMC has loved her since a teen
✅️ Over Protective MMC
✅️ FMC character growth
✅️ Tyranny
✅️ Hostile Forces
✅️ Survival
✅️ Pandemic
Level: Easy/mild read
Storyline: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Pace: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
World Building:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Characters:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Writing:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thoughts:
I loved this series as it combines three fav tropes: Intertwining best friend group, small town romance with post-apocalyptic.
It starts with the FMC living in the city and working at home on a case in which the government is trying to hide the fact that there is an infectious outbreak (she is a lawyer). She tries to call her BF, who is also her boss, to raise awareness, but he doesn't answer. The next day, all he'll break loose when she gets to work, finding out the virus has spread rapidly overnight. She also finds out her boss is a cheating AH.
Side note: With any well written pandemic FICTION book, there is always going to be some political play during the initial stages. It would be hard to write one and not mention the government actions in any capacity. This lasts less than the first chapter and is only used to start the story of the outbreak.
Her best friend sends her little brother, who has been crushing on the FMC since he was a teen, to the city to collect her and bring her back to their home town. Now let me tell you! as soon as the MMC told FMC,'I'd always come for you,' I was invested in this couple (clearly, I'm single and need to stop getting new book boyfriends). The way this man has pined for the FMC!. I need me some of that. It also covers her struggle with accepting his declaration of love due to her loyalty to her best friend and also as he the towns Golden boy and she is seen as the towns trash due to her alcoholics father, making her feel unworthy.
I digress. The thing I liked about this book is the fact it also touches on humans' instinct for survival and how easily it is to conform to what we perceive will keep us safe, even with all the 🚩⚠️🚨. This is when tyrants swoop in and make people reliant on them by making them feel like it is the better option, eg out in the danger zone, vs. being in the safe zone. You do see this play out with the FMC and MMC, as MMC struggles with going with what is perceived as keeping everyone safe, including his misguided perception of keeping FMC safe or listening to the warning signs and FMC concerns. Mind you, he is still in his early 20s and has known the newly formed leader and council his whole life. It would be hard to go against people you have always seen as respected elders in the community.
There is a lot at play during this book with the town Tyrant and his lackeys and the outside Hostile Forces. Even with that, it somehow still gives small-town romance vibes. I didn't know I would love this combo as much as I do, but it somehow works. I also love all the side characters.
Can't wait to see what the next book has in store.
Four best friends and their love interests, with small-town romance vibes, in a post-apocalyptic setting.
Tropes:
✅️ Best friends, little brother
✅️ MMC has loved her since a teen
✅️ Over Protective MMC
✅️ FMC character growth
✅️ Tyranny
✅️ Hostile Forces
✅️ Survival
✅️ Pandemic
Level: Easy/mild read
Storyline: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Pace: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
World Building:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Characters:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Writing:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thoughts:
I loved this series as it combines three fav tropes: Intertwining best friend group, small town romance with post-apocalyptic.
It starts with the FMC living in the city and working at home on a case in which the government is trying to hide the fact that there is an infectious outbreak (she is a lawyer). She tries to call her BF, who is also her boss, to raise awareness, but he doesn't answer. The next day, all he'll break loose when she gets to work, finding out the virus has spread rapidly overnight. She also finds out her boss is a cheating AH.
Side note: With any well written pandemic FICTION book, there is always going to be some political play during the initial stages. It would be hard to write one and not mention the government actions in any capacity. This lasts less than the first chapter and is only used to start the story of the outbreak.
Her best friend sends her little brother, who has been crushing on the FMC since he was a teen, to the city to collect her and bring her back to their home town. Now let me tell you! as soon as the MMC told FMC,'I'd always come for you,' I was invested in this couple (clearly, I'm single and need to stop getting new book boyfriends). The way this man has pined for the FMC!. I need me some of that. It also covers her struggle with accepting his declaration of love due to her loyalty to her best friend and also as he the towns Golden boy and she is seen as the towns trash due to her alcoholics father, making her feel unworthy.
I digress. The thing I liked about this book is the fact it also touches on humans' instinct for survival and how easily it is to conform to what we perceive will keep us safe, even with all the 🚩⚠️🚨. This is when tyrants swoop in and make people reliant on them by making them feel like it is the better option, eg out in the danger zone, vs. being in the safe zone. You do see this play out with the FMC and MMC, as MMC struggles with going with what is perceived as keeping everyone safe, including his misguided perception of keeping FMC safe or listening to the warning signs and FMC concerns. Mind you, he is still in his early 20s and has known the newly formed leader and council his whole life. It would be hard to go against people you have always seen as respected elders in the community.
There is a lot at play during this book with the town Tyrant and his lackeys and the outside Hostile Forces. Even with that, it somehow still gives small-town romance vibes. I didn't know I would love this combo as much as I do, but it somehow works. I also love all the side characters.
Can't wait to see what the next book has in store.
May 16, 2023
mixed bag of tricks.
I really thought this would be better, I also really wanted to like it much more due to genre. This was more of what life was like in America during the quarantine than the truly original post apocalyptic story I was looking for.
Why is it more a quarantine story than an apocalyptic one? Glad I asked. When given opportunities to “stock up” “prep” “plan” the characters/author didn’t make that choice. At Mr. Zheng’ pharmacy, that was the moment to ask for some antibiotics and other items. The second trip to a pharmacy wound up costing them too much.
The buzzwords were killing me at times; let that stuff go and tell a good story. At this point the course of the story alters and only you can decide if it took a logical turn. The author then changed some of the characters mindset so that they were alliterating toxic masculinity- and after fighting against it so long, some the female characters go along with staying behind for their protection. Awful.
The female lead starts as “TSTL” but has a good character arc. She comes to understand the Apocalyptic Assignment!
Little note to the community, if you’re writing romantic fiction some attempts to tackle toxic masculinity lead to contradictions and writing oneself into a corner. Don’t trap us with you.
I really thought this would be better, I also really wanted to like it much more due to genre. This was more of what life was like in America during the quarantine than the truly original post apocalyptic story I was looking for.
Why is it more a quarantine story than an apocalyptic one? Glad I asked. When given opportunities to “stock up” “prep” “plan” the characters/author didn’t make that choice. At Mr. Zheng’ pharmacy, that was the moment to ask for some antibiotics and other items. The second trip to a pharmacy wound up costing them too much.
The buzzwords were killing me at times; let that stuff go and tell a good story. At this point the course of the story alters and only you can decide if it took a logical turn. The author then changed some of the characters mindset so that they were alliterating toxic masculinity- and after fighting against it so long, some the female characters go along with staying behind for their protection. Awful.
The female lead starts as “TSTL” but has a good character arc. She comes to understand the Apocalyptic Assignment!
Little note to the community, if you’re writing romantic fiction some attempts to tackle toxic masculinity lead to contradictions and writing oneself into a corner. Don’t trap us with you.
April 15, 2025
I absolutely love apocalypse romances, this was a boring book. There were a lot of gaps in the story, no build up or development was done regarding Sanford - like all these neighbors and people were suddenly either good or evil, no other options.
The author didn't do a lot of research and it shows, she should have done a goog on how illnesses work, but it was how the characters were written that really did it. Jake and his constant 'babes' and looking the other way towards violence against women while simultaneously spouting off like he's the good guy behind closed doors. I guess he's redeemed at the end...Mac acts like a 17 year old and so do her friends. These are established career women in their late 20's. It just didn't fit and you couldn't really get sucked into the story.
I'm surprised a woman wrote this, it wasn't necessarily bad, just unresearched and boring and no character development.
I get people are giving one stars for politics, honestly I didn't even notice all that, lots of books have political crap that does nothing for the plot, just read past it.
The author didn't do a lot of research and it shows, she should have done a goog on how illnesses work, but it was how the characters were written that really did it. Jake and his constant 'babes' and looking the other way towards violence against women while simultaneously spouting off like he's the good guy behind closed doors. I guess he's redeemed at the end...Mac acts like a 17 year old and so do her friends. These are established career women in their late 20's. It just didn't fit and you couldn't really get sucked into the story.
I'm surprised a woman wrote this, it wasn't necessarily bad, just unresearched and boring and no character development.
I get people are giving one stars for politics, honestly I didn't even notice all that, lots of books have political crap that does nothing for the plot, just read past it.
December 30, 2025
I'll be honest, I bought this series at a convention because the spine design was awesome.
The author described it to me like "adult Tomorrow When The War Began" and she was not wrong (obviously, she wrote it).
I was hooked right away and dragged back to those early days of the pandemic but this book takes it so much further than we ever experienced. The mass death of half the population, and the chaos, looting and martial law that comes into effect.
I really liked the range of characters and the fact that the author did not hold back on the brutality of what they experienced.
I also liked the romance tropes of the bestie's brother declaring his love to the FMC, the returning to a small home town, the differences of opinion driving them apart.
It was a quick read and I'm diving right into book 2. I definitely recommend for adult fans of TWTWB and The Walking Dead or any post-apocalyptic stories. Definitely check trigger warnings though.
The author described it to me like "adult Tomorrow When The War Began" and she was not wrong (obviously, she wrote it).
I was hooked right away and dragged back to those early days of the pandemic but this book takes it so much further than we ever experienced. The mass death of half the population, and the chaos, looting and martial law that comes into effect.
I really liked the range of characters and the fact that the author did not hold back on the brutality of what they experienced.
I also liked the romance tropes of the bestie's brother declaring his love to the FMC, the returning to a small home town, the differences of opinion driving them apart.
It was a quick read and I'm diving right into book 2. I definitely recommend for adult fans of TWTWB and The Walking Dead or any post-apocalyptic stories. Definitely check trigger warnings though.
January 26, 2024
The After series has been on my to read list for quite a long time. I've had a backlog of books to read and when I finally got to it. I was pleasantly surprised. The last series I read (The Rise Of The Iliri) was probably one of the best written series I've ever read and I was afraid that the after series would not hold up in comparison.
After today was a short and relatively easy read but that doesn't mean I didn't enjoy it. The apocalypse came on strong and fast and forced the two main characters together who banded together against a common enemy.
I rated it 3/5 stars because emotionally, its pretty flat. The ups and downs aren't very strong and because the book is fairly short we didn't get enough time to bond with the main two.
After today was a short and relatively easy read but that doesn't mean I didn't enjoy it. The apocalypse came on strong and fast and forced the two main characters together who banded together against a common enemy.
I rated it 3/5 stars because emotionally, its pretty flat. The ups and downs aren't very strong and because the book is fairly short we didn't get enough time to bond with the main two.
January 31, 2025
4.5
Really great post-apocalypse story. My only gripe is that the world fell into chaos within like hours. And within days seemingly normal people were murdering people and handing women they know to bikers to be gang raped rather than giving up their whiskey. Now, I will never be one to question the audacity of men, but I do think it might take more than a few days to devolve into total chaos, and with this book being the first in a series, it feels like the author had time to let the tension build more slowly before everything went full anarchy. But it was an enjoyable read and I look forward to the other books in the series!
Really great post-apocalypse story. My only gripe is that the world fell into chaos within like hours. And within days seemingly normal people were murdering people and handing women they know to bikers to be gang raped rather than giving up their whiskey. Now, I will never be one to question the audacity of men, but I do think it might take more than a few days to devolve into total chaos, and with this book being the first in a series, it feels like the author had time to let the tension build more slowly before everything went full anarchy. But it was an enjoyable read and I look forward to the other books in the series!
July 26, 2023
Really enjoyed this first book in Jacqueline Hayley's The After series.
You're dropped straight into the action in a virus TEOTWAWKI epic. As the city of Chicago falls apart around them, Mackenzie and Jake must think quick and act fast to stay alive. They find their way to their childhood stomping grounds in rural Illinois and a whole new layer of threat presents itself - other survivors.
Loved this story that was well paced with excellent world building and depth as well as some steamy romance.
You're dropped straight into the action in a virus TEOTWAWKI epic. As the city of Chicago falls apart around them, Mackenzie and Jake must think quick and act fast to stay alive. They find their way to their childhood stomping grounds in rural Illinois and a whole new layer of threat presents itself - other survivors.
Loved this story that was well paced with excellent world building and depth as well as some steamy romance.
July 21, 2024
Mac And Jake
This was a great book, had some twists and turns I didn’t expect. When SHTF all goodness and inner evil comes out it people. Great world building and characters, all you can relate to. But with the good you have the bad, and those characters you identify soon after meeting. I liked Mac and her developing relationship with Jake. Both moving from childhood relationship to adult ones ( his sister is she BFF). But they do overcome hardships to be together. There is laughter, drama, mystery, danger and throw in some spicy romance.
This was a great book, had some twists and turns I didn’t expect. When SHTF all goodness and inner evil comes out it people. Great world building and characters, all you can relate to. But with the good you have the bad, and those characters you identify soon after meeting. I liked Mac and her developing relationship with Jake. Both moving from childhood relationship to adult ones ( his sister is she BFF). But they do overcome hardships to be together. There is laughter, drama, mystery, danger and throw in some spicy romance.
March 18, 2023
After Today: An apocalyptic romance (The After Series Book 1)
First, this was actually a really great book. I really enjoyed it and can't wait to read Rachel and James' book next. With that said, a few heads ups... there are allusions to the intimate abuse of women but no actual scenes occur. Also,
there are graphic (consensual) intimate scenes. Not raunchy but definitely explicit.
First, this was actually a really great book. I really enjoyed it and can't wait to read Rachel and James' book next. With that said, a few heads ups... there are allusions to the intimate abuse of women but no actual scenes occur. Also,
there are graphic (consensual) intimate scenes. Not raunchy but definitely explicit.
May 3, 2023
I really enjoyed the world building and the characters themselves, but I can't help but feel that the relationship between the two main characters didn't get the chance to fully blossom. I finished the last chapter before the epilogue and thought, "Seriously?" The ending felt rushed and unresolved. I know there are more books, and I'll definitely give the next one a try, but I'm hoping for characters and their motivations make more sense.
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