What do you think?
Rate this book
Grip of Panic: A Post-Apocalyptic EMP Survival Thriller
From Amazon #1 Best-Selling Author...
The power’s out. And only one chance to escape.
Grip of Panic is the riveting fourth book in the After The End post-apocalyptic EMP survival series. If you like characters that jump off the page, spellbinding action, and edge-of-your-seat drama, then you’ll love bestselling author Sam J Fires’s nail-biting thriller.
Grab your copy now!
The power’s out. And only one chance to escape.
Grip of Panic is the riveting fourth book in the After The End post-apocalyptic EMP survival series. If you like characters that jump off the page, spellbinding action, and edge-of-your-seat drama, then you’ll love bestselling author Sam J Fires’s nail-biting thriller.
Grab your copy now!
167 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 29, 2024
139 people are currently reading
26 people want to read
About the author
Sam J Fires
44 books80 followersSam J Fires is a #1 bestselling author of gripping post-apocalyptic and dystopian thrillers.
Her stories are driven by flawed, resilient characters forced to survive the unthinkable—when the power goes out, the world collapses, and every choice comes at a cost. Expect high-stakes tension, emotional depth, and characters who fight to the bitter end.
In real life, Sam would be the first to admit she probably wouldn’t last five minutes in one of her own worlds.
👉 Be sure to follow Sam on Bookbub for the latest on sales:
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/sam-j...
Her stories are driven by flawed, resilient characters forced to survive the unthinkable—when the power goes out, the world collapses, and every choice comes at a cost. Expect high-stakes tension, emotional depth, and characters who fight to the bitter end.
In real life, Sam would be the first to admit she probably wouldn’t last five minutes in one of her own worlds.
👉 Be sure to follow Sam on Bookbub for the latest on sales:
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/sam-j...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
May 7, 2025
These books are quick reads which explains why I’m racing through them like I am. I really wish they were longer. But it’s a series so I’m just happy that this story is on going.
This one picks up with the doctor’s POV who has been Holly’s doctor for the past ten years.. She’s also the owner of the little dog which Holly rescued.. These two unbeknownst to each other have a lot in common. Both are subjects who have undergone new drug experiments to aide in anxiety. So the fact that Holly rescued him made me happy..
The hits just keep coming, Julian and the Doctor are relentless in their pursuit to bring Holly back to the hospital so that they can operate on her and administer the next phase in the experiment. Some of the never ending antics to bring her back are over the top, and I couldn't imagine any of that happening in RL but it still makes for a riveting read by keeping it interesting.
So this picked up where the previous book left off but with the Doctors POV, to Julian grabbing Holly from the cabin to bringing her to Dr. Vera Burke at the Willamette Valley Mental Health Institute.
Pat, Kimberly and the kids pack up their meager belongings from the cabin and make the trek back to Kimberly's house, mainly because of it being too secluded and with their sons asthma Kimberly wants to be as near to a hospital as possible. Then once things are settled at the house Pat's going to bring back Holly, he feels it deep down that she doesn't belong at the hospital any more.
Just when you think all these characters are safe, shots ring out, screaming, blood and chaos ensue leaving us there on a cliffy.
February 29, 2024
This is a great fourth part to this well written, interesting post apocalyptic series! Lots of action & adventure, great levels of tension, great ideas, really well done made a brilliant continuation to the story & a super enjoyable read!
February 23, 2024
(I received this copy for the ARC group, so I got to read it early. Eat your hearts out.)
Prior books have had their focus on Patrick and his children and his ex-wife and their efforts to stay safe during the blackout and to keep Holly safe as well.
This book starts by telling what has been happening at the Willamette Valley Mental Health Institute, giving the backstory of the main doctor there, Dr. Vera Burke and what she is doing. It then brings in Julian and his role in the Institute and why Holly is so important to them.
The paths of the family and the Institute intersect early and the rest of the book covers the struggle to finally free Holly from the clutches of Dr. Burke and Julian.
How does it end? I don't give spoilers!
Prior books have had their focus on Patrick and his children and his ex-wife and their efforts to stay safe during the blackout and to keep Holly safe as well.
This book starts by telling what has been happening at the Willamette Valley Mental Health Institute, giving the backstory of the main doctor there, Dr. Vera Burke and what she is doing. It then brings in Julian and his role in the Institute and why Holly is so important to them.
The paths of the family and the Institute intersect early and the rest of the book covers the struggle to finally free Holly from the clutches of Dr. Burke and Julian.
How does it end? I don't give spoilers!
March 4, 2024
5/5
Is it an Electromagnetic Pulse (EMP) or something else? Who, what, how long is this going to be an issue?
I have just read all four books (Grip of Deceit, Despair, Fury and Panic) in this series. One right after the other. I had to!
Pat, our physically damaged and medically retired policeman and army vet, is only doingwhat he sees is the correct thing to do. It seems that his help is not always wanted though. He tries to sort out the nightmare everyon has found themselves in one person at a time damn the costs to himself.
He has kids that he is not sure if they love him or even like him, a bittter ex-wife and an escaped mental patient under his wings. All of them are in danger one way or another. In helping them he draws unwanted attention to himself and them. They all need tto to survive.
You need to read this series from the opening chapter of the ffirst book to the finish of book four to get you best bang for your buck. This series must go on!
Is it an Electromagnetic Pulse (EMP) or something else? Who, what, how long is this going to be an issue?
I have just read all four books (Grip of Deceit, Despair, Fury and Panic) in this series. One right after the other. I had to!
Pat, our physically damaged and medically retired policeman and army vet, is only doingwhat he sees is the correct thing to do. It seems that his help is not always wanted though. He tries to sort out the nightmare everyon has found themselves in one person at a time damn the costs to himself.
He has kids that he is not sure if they love him or even like him, a bittter ex-wife and an escaped mental patient under his wings. All of them are in danger one way or another. In helping them he draws unwanted attention to himself and them. They all need tto to survive.
You need to read this series from the opening chapter of the ffirst book to the finish of book four to get you best bang for your buck. This series must go on!
March 25, 2024
Grip of Panic
After the End #4
Sci-Fi
Sam J. Fires
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
• ᴇxᴘᴇʀɪᴍᴇɴᴛꜱ • ᴍᴜʟᴛɪᴘʟᴇ ᴘᴏᴠꜱ • ʀᴇꜱᴄᴜᴇ •
It took me a little while to remember how the last book had ended, especially as the plot went back to the first book in this series, just with different POVs.
The pacing was a little slow at times, which made parts of the plot drag.
The characters were well written. I couldn't stand 3 of them but that was how they were meant to be. Dr Burke was twisted and her ambition made her sadistic and bitter.
I felt so sorry for Holly, she seemed to always get the short end of the stick. She was just trying to live her life after being in hospital for 30 years but people were determined to use her for their own benefit.
I liked the reunion and how Holly was welcomed back by Patrick, Kim and the kids.
I did predict the ending but I still liked reading this book.
After the End #4
Sci-Fi
Sam J. Fires
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
• ᴇxᴘᴇʀɪᴍᴇɴᴛꜱ • ᴍᴜʟᴛɪᴘʟᴇ ᴘᴏᴠꜱ • ʀᴇꜱᴄᴜᴇ •
It took me a little while to remember how the last book had ended, especially as the plot went back to the first book in this series, just with different POVs.
The pacing was a little slow at times, which made parts of the plot drag.
The characters were well written. I couldn't stand 3 of them but that was how they were meant to be. Dr Burke was twisted and her ambition made her sadistic and bitter.
I felt so sorry for Holly, she seemed to always get the short end of the stick. She was just trying to live her life after being in hospital for 30 years but people were determined to use her for their own benefit.
I liked the reunion and how Holly was welcomed back by Patrick, Kim and the kids.
I did predict the ending but I still liked reading this book.
June 27, 2024
Grip of Panic: A Post-Apocalyptic EMP Survival Thriller (After the End Book 4), my twenty-ninth read from author Sam J. Fires and the fourth book in After the End series. Another enjoyable, well-written, entertaining 167-page Post-Apocalyptic read, the tebsion really cranking up in this one. “I was a given Kindle copy of this book and am just now getting around to reading it after discovering a free audio version on Youtube, and am voluntarily leaving a review." Next up Grip of Mercy: A Post-Apocalyptic EMP Survival Thriller (After the End Book 5) due out in November of this year. The gifting of this book did not affect my opinion of it. (RIP Marley January 20, 2014 - July 24, 2018).
March 2, 2024
This is the fourth book of this superb post-apocalyptic series by the amazing Sam J, Fires. The main characters are Pat, an ex-cop, and Holly, an ex-hospital patient.
In the previous book, we met Pat’s wife and their two children. In Grip of Panic, they are together fighting the cold temperatures, the heavy snow, and the lack of power, fuel, and transport. Then there is Julian, the nurse on a bike who is intent on dragging Holly back to the hospital so the evil doctor can continue her medical experiments.
Overall, this is a captivating storyline where the tension builds slowly and reaches a truly explosive ending. This is another superb collection of novellas for readers of this genre to love.
In the previous book, we met Pat’s wife and their two children. In Grip of Panic, they are together fighting the cold temperatures, the heavy snow, and the lack of power, fuel, and transport. Then there is Julian, the nurse on a bike who is intent on dragging Holly back to the hospital so the evil doctor can continue her medical experiments.
Overall, this is a captivating storyline where the tension builds slowly and reaches a truly explosive ending. This is another superb collection of novellas for readers of this genre to love.
February 29, 2024
Emotional turmoil
What an amazing fourth book in this series. It was nerve wracking, I found myself racing through the story to see if Patrick could save Holly from her kidnappers in time, before the mad Doctor does something unspeakable to her. The ending totally stumped me, I didn't know how I felt, my emotions have been totally blown apart with this one. Holly's rescue attempt, Kim, his ex-wife is being nice for once, the kids are safe and Patrick can breathe again. Then POOF, his world is turned upside down and inside out. I can not wait for the next book.
What an amazing fourth book in this series. It was nerve wracking, I found myself racing through the story to see if Patrick could save Holly from her kidnappers in time, before the mad Doctor does something unspeakable to her. The ending totally stumped me, I didn't know how I felt, my emotions have been totally blown apart with this one. Holly's rescue attempt, Kim, his ex-wife is being nice for once, the kids are safe and Patrick can breathe again. Then POOF, his world is turned upside down and inside out. I can not wait for the next book.
March 1, 2024
A Great Fourth Book
Grip of Panic gave a definite twist to this series that I didn’t expect. With a little more backstory on a side character who makes a big impact on the storyline this book wasn’t what I expected it to be. It was great and the characters continue to be well represented and true to the stories about them from previous books in the series. It again ends with a cliffhanger and we have months to wait before we get to read book five, but it will obviously be worth the wait as this series and its related series have been unforgettable reads.
Grip of Panic gave a definite twist to this series that I didn’t expect. With a little more backstory on a side character who makes a big impact on the storyline this book wasn’t what I expected it to be. It was great and the characters continue to be well represented and true to the stories about them from previous books in the series. It again ends with a cliffhanger and we have months to wait before we get to read book five, but it will obviously be worth the wait as this series and its related series have been unforgettable reads.
March 18, 2024
Really enjoyed it
This was an interesting take Find a family struggling to survive an EMP. The characters were well fleshed out and quite relatable During their struggles.The involvement of a good man who once was an officer shows the struggle of looking a career and a marriage yet maintaining a relationship with children. His need to serve despite not being on the force anymore was relatable an quite compelling.
This was an interesting take Find a family struggling to survive an EMP. The characters were well fleshed out and quite relatable During their struggles.The involvement of a good man who once was an officer shows the struggle of looking a career and a marriage yet maintaining a relationship with children. His need to serve despite not being on the force anymore was relatable an quite compelling.
July 14, 2024
There's lots of action!
Poor Holly never gets a fair go. All through Grip of Panic there's widespread panic as people struggle to survive. Pat's family, Holly and Butler battle the same plus the fight to keep Holly from the hospital. And the ending? After all the ups and downs, and the buildup throughout this book, the ending is explosive. Another really awesome read by Sam J Fires.
Poor Holly never gets a fair go. All through Grip of Panic there's widespread panic as people struggle to survive. Pat's family, Holly and Butler battle the same plus the fight to keep Holly from the hospital. And the ending? After all the ups and downs, and the buildup throughout this book, the ending is explosive. Another really awesome read by Sam J Fires.
February 20, 2024
Horrendous times for Holly and somewhat draining for Pat as things take a turn for the worst. A few good twists in here as the whole of Pat's family tries to move forward. You'll be asking yourself who the deranged ones really are. Compelling narrative and characters that draws you in.
February 29, 2024
This was another thrilling read with more of a background to Holly's story and introducing Dr Vera Burke, who has a mad Doctor persona. An explosive last chapter that leaves you stunned and horrified and will stay in your mind until the next book. Can't wait !
March 1, 2024
A great continuation to this post-apocalyptic thriller. Events take their toll on Patrick as he tries to keep his family and Holly safe. Plenty of action throughout and can't wait for the next instalment. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 7, 2024
Grip Of Panic: Great Read!
Fantastic extension of a fabulous series. Will feel like forever till the next series extension is released. The story line is intriguing and well written. Nice job!
Fantastic extension of a fabulous series. Will feel like forever till the next series extension is released. The story line is intriguing and well written. Nice job!
March 11, 2024
The plot gets more intricate.
I couldn’t put this book down, I hated that it ended on a cliffhanger and I can’t wait for the next book!
We get more of a backstory about Holly as well as Julian in this story. What a thrill ride. It has suspense as well as emotion.
I couldn’t put this book down, I hated that it ended on a cliffhanger and I can’t wait for the next book!
We get more of a backstory about Holly as well as Julian in this story. What a thrill ride. It has suspense as well as emotion.
July 28, 2024
Absolutely brilliant
Oh my God just when I thought that Holly was safe I get to the end of this book and realise I won't know until I read the next one ,and I can't wait to download it and start reading it
Oh my God just when I thought that Holly was safe I get to the end of this book and realise I won't know until I read the next one ,and I can't wait to download it and start reading it
February 26, 2024
Incredible book from a highly entertaining series. Full of action and amazing characters. I've loved every book from this author. Looking forward to more.
February 29, 2024
Another great book in the series by Sam Fires. As always I couldn’t put the book down. It has such great characters with a great storyline. Can’t wait for the next book!
February 29, 2024
This was another solid entry in this series. it was fast paced and action packed. definitely recommended!
February 29, 2024
Another thrilling instalment in the After the End series. This one gives more background about both Julien and Holly as well as continuing the saga.
March 7, 2024
I can't wait
Omg what an ending. I can't wait for book five!! I love this series.
November seems too long. Great story!
Omg what an ending. I can't wait for book five!! I love this series.
November seems too long. Great story!
March 10, 2024
What a cliffhanger! Very tense instalment in the series.
July 26, 2024
Very good
Keeps you reading, to find out more of what is happening at the end to a family. If you like adventure, suspense and keeps getting better.
Keeps you reading, to find out more of what is happening at the end to a family. If you like adventure, suspense and keeps getting better.
February 23, 2025
Very exciting!
I am always looking for books that hold my interest! This has been one of the few that are worth it to the end
I am always looking for books that hold my interest! This has been one of the few that are worth it to the end
October 10, 2025
🎧(audiobook)
Good. Solid. The story has picked up. Big cliff hanger at the end of this one.
Read my reviews about book 1 and 2 for more info.
Good. Solid. The story has picked up. Big cliff hanger at the end of this one.
Read my reviews about book 1 and 2 for more info.
April 3, 2024
Once again there’s danger and chaos, will this ever end. Trying to find a safe place with everyone sad, angry and lost. Impossible to not
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews