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Beneath the Ashes
Survive the underground. Scavenge the resources. Save the women.
Life beneath the ashes of the old world has never been easy.
For Ethan, though, it was simple in Refuge. Living in a small settlement inside a big cave and carving out a life with his little community was all he had ever known. It wasn’t a happy life, but there was little joy in a post-apocalyptic subterranean nightmare besides with the people you fought to survive with.
And then he lost it all in the blink of an eye.
His home destroyed, his friends and family slaughtered, he is abruptly thrust into a new life after being forced to flee to a large settlement where he knows no one and has nothing.
As he meets and begins to fall in love with Ember, a beautiful woman in a bad situation, and the pressure of trying to make a new life for himself mounts, Ethan soon finds himself thrust into the lethal world of scavenging for crucial resources out in the underground, where anything and everything lurks in the shadows…
Life beneath the ashes of the old world has never been easy.
For Ethan, though, it was simple in Refuge. Living in a small settlement inside a big cave and carving out a life with his little community was all he had ever known. It wasn’t a happy life, but there was little joy in a post-apocalyptic subterranean nightmare besides with the people you fought to survive with.
And then he lost it all in the blink of an eye.
His home destroyed, his friends and family slaughtered, he is abruptly thrust into a new life after being forced to flee to a large settlement where he knows no one and has nothing.
As he meets and begins to fall in love with Ember, a beautiful woman in a bad situation, and the pressure of trying to make a new life for himself mounts, Ethan soon finds himself thrust into the lethal world of scavenging for crucial resources out in the underground, where anything and everything lurks in the shadows…
456 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 6, 2023
171 people are currently reading
99 people want to read
About the author
Misty Vixen
458 books343 followersHello and welcome to my website!
I am Misty Vixen (not my real name obviously), and I imagine that if you’re reading this, you want to know a bit more about me.
In the beginning (late 2014), I was an erotica author. I wrote about sex, specifically about human men banging hot inhuman women. Monster girls, alien ladies, paranormal babes. It was a lot of fun, but as the years went on, I realized that I was actually striving to be a harem author. This didn’t truly occur to me until late 2019-early 2020. Once the realization fully hit, I began doing research on what it meant to be a harem author. I’m kind of a slow learner, so it’s taken me a bit to figure it all out.
That being said, I’m now a harem author!
Just about everything I write nowadays is harem fiction: one man in loving, romantic, highly sexual relationships with several women. Nowadays, I tend to write more human on human stuff, but I still have a lot of non-human ladies in mind for the future, so if that’s your thing then stick around.
I’d say beyond writing harems, I tend to have themes that I always explore in my fiction, and they encompass things like trust, communication, respect, honesty, dealing with emotional problems in a mature way…basically I like writing about functional and healthy relationships. Not every relationship is perfect, but I don’t really do drama unless the story actually calls for it. In total honesty, I hate drama. I hate people lying to each other and I hate needless rom-com BS plots that could have been solved by two characters having a two minute conversation.
I am Misty Vixen (not my real name obviously), and I imagine that if you’re reading this, you want to know a bit more about me.
In the beginning (late 2014), I was an erotica author. I wrote about sex, specifically about human men banging hot inhuman women. Monster girls, alien ladies, paranormal babes. It was a lot of fun, but as the years went on, I realized that I was actually striving to be a harem author. This didn’t truly occur to me until late 2019-early 2020. Once the realization fully hit, I began doing research on what it meant to be a harem author. I’m kind of a slow learner, so it’s taken me a bit to figure it all out.
That being said, I’m now a harem author!
Just about everything I write nowadays is harem fiction: one man in loving, romantic, highly sexual relationships with several women. Nowadays, I tend to write more human on human stuff, but I still have a lot of non-human ladies in mind for the future, so if that’s your thing then stick around.
I’d say beyond writing harems, I tend to have themes that I always explore in my fiction, and they encompass things like trust, communication, respect, honesty, dealing with emotional problems in a mature way…basically I like writing about functional and healthy relationships. Not every relationship is perfect, but I don’t really do drama unless the story actually calls for it. In total honesty, I hate drama. I hate people lying to each other and I hate needless rom-com BS plots that could have been solved by two characters having a two minute conversation.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
February 6, 2024
Entertaining P-A Action Adventure
Very entertaining, fast paced read with likeable characters and an intriguing storyline. While it's probably targeted for a much younger audience than myself, I found it interesting and well written. My only complaint was the number of typographical errors that could be corrected with reasonable editing.
Very entertaining, fast paced read with likeable characters and an intriguing storyline. While it's probably targeted for a much younger audience than myself, I found it interesting and well written. My only complaint was the number of typographical errors that could be corrected with reasonable editing.
March 24, 2025
I'm loving this story so much.
I started book 2 right away, I totally recommend this book and so far the series.
I started book 2 right away, I totally recommend this book and so far the series.
October 18, 2025
Really 5 stars, but I'm saving that for later
This is the first time I've really read anything that's post-apocalyptic. This is really post-apocalyptic. I loved the way they described what had happened to make it that way, and it's intense to see what people are living through in that future. There's not as much blatant erotic action in this one, but it's really good and the promise of future action is also there. If you like Misty vixen just because she is a really good character writer, then go ahead and read this book. You don't have to like the smart, but you can really get into this story.
This is the first time I've really read anything that's post-apocalyptic. This is really post-apocalyptic. I loved the way they described what had happened to make it that way, and it's intense to see what people are living through in that future. There's not as much blatant erotic action in this one, but it's really good and the promise of future action is also there. If you like Misty vixen just because she is a really good character writer, then go ahead and read this book. You don't have to like the smart, but you can really get into this story.
December 27, 2023
I enjoyed it immensely. The novel deals with a young mans struggle to survive in what is deemed a post war novel, where the remnats of mankind have taken refuge underground. The author doesn't get into the politics and reason behind the war only the aftermath is displayed to the reader. Be advised that this novel is definitely for adults or mature teens, in my humble opinion. The pace of the book is decent and I enjoyed the antagonist ability to cope with the people, problems, and adventures that lie before him and his newly acquired associates.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 21, 2023
Good story
I'm a big fan of post-apocalyptic novels and love some good character development, and this book definitely delivered on both those fronts for me.
It's just the right mix of slice of life in an underground society struggling to survive and very reminiscent of one of my favourite video games called Metro 2033. The only thing missing was the railway system between settlements.
I am eagerly waiting for another instalment to see where the story leads.
I'm a big fan of post-apocalyptic novels and love some good character development, and this book definitely delivered on both those fronts for me.
It's just the right mix of slice of life in an underground society struggling to survive and very reminiscent of one of my favourite video games called Metro 2033. The only thing missing was the railway system between settlements.
I am eagerly waiting for another instalment to see where the story leads.
March 17, 2024
Typically excellent Misty Vixen
If you like Ms. Vixen's stories, you'll enjoy this one. One of her post-apocalyptic settings, a good, strong but relatable male protagonist and various well-developed females. Enough action to keep the story moving, with some expertly sustained tension. Some good spice but not too much. Altogether quite good. I will definitely read the future installments. In the interest of full disclosure, I am one of Ms. Vixen's Patron suporters.
If you like Ms. Vixen's stories, you'll enjoy this one. One of her post-apocalyptic settings, a good, strong but relatable male protagonist and various well-developed females. Enough action to keep the story moving, with some expertly sustained tension. Some good spice but not too much. Altogether quite good. I will definitely read the future installments. In the interest of full disclosure, I am one of Ms. Vixen's Patron suporters.
November 8, 2023
Best read of the year!
I like pretty much everything this author puts out but this book and hopefully the series is a cut above the rest. The premise is unique which is hard to find in this genre. The story and story-telling is fantastic. The characters feel real and their conversations and interactions are just very human. I loved it and the next one can’t come soon enough.
I like pretty much everything this author puts out but this book and hopefully the series is a cut above the rest. The premise is unique which is hard to find in this genre. The story and story-telling is fantastic. The characters feel real and their conversations and interactions are just very human. I loved it and the next one can’t come soon enough.
November 9, 2023
Really great novel. I first started reading Misty books with the Haven series and this reminds me a lot of that. The world building and the action take center stage and I prefer it that way.
Competent MC and relationships that feel very realistic and wholesome. The world feels very consistent and I enjoyed this quite a bit.
Competent MC and relationships that feel very realistic and wholesome. The world feels very consistent and I enjoyed this quite a bit.
November 16, 2023
Another Great Story
Misty Vixen is an awesome author, she puts together great stories with believable characters with flaw that they work hard to overcome. The story was well paced with action, adventure and excellent spice while working relationships between the characters that are well crafted and believable. I'm looking forward to the next book!
Misty Vixen is an awesome author, she puts together great stories with believable characters with flaw that they work hard to overcome. The story was well paced with action, adventure and excellent spice while working relationships between the characters that are well crafted and believable. I'm looking forward to the next book!
November 23, 2023
Amazing new series!
I love this take on a post-apocalyptic world. It reminds me so much of the book series City of Ember (obviously takes some inspiration from that with our main girl Ember, haha). I loved that series, but i always thought it didn't quite take it far enough, and this book brings in everything I wanted. I highly recommend and look forward to the next book!
I love this take on a post-apocalyptic world. It reminds me so much of the book series City of Ember (obviously takes some inspiration from that with our main girl Ember, haha). I loved that series, but i always thought it didn't quite take it far enough, and this book brings in everything I wanted. I highly recommend and look forward to the next book!
December 19, 2023
Looks like another good one for Misty
This has similarities to another of Misty’s books which I liked very much and that is (A Warm Place). That one is above ground and this one is below ground. Editing is good, a few mistakes here and there but much better than most. Look forward to the second book.
This has similarities to another of Misty’s books which I liked very much and that is (A Warm Place). That one is above ground and this one is below ground. Editing is good, a few mistakes here and there but much better than most. Look forward to the second book.
February 28, 2024
Underground adventure
Alternate universe, post-apocalypse survival, harem adult situations
Ethan Lumos is a survivor who made it to the next underground town of Wayport. There, he meets Ember, another survivor, already living in his assigned quarters. Interesting monsters, and good action scenes. Well edited. Enjoyed, and ready for book 2.
Alternate universe, post-apocalypse survival, harem adult situations
Ethan Lumos is a survivor who made it to the next underground town of Wayport. There, he meets Ember, another survivor, already living in his assigned quarters. Interesting monsters, and good action scenes. Well edited. Enjoyed, and ready for book 2.
December 4, 2023
Fantastic!
Man, what a world build. Misty's characters are always outstanding. They end up feeling like real people. This is a gritty apocalyptic tale with interludes of just enjoying sweet moments.
Man, what a world build. Misty's characters are always outstanding. They end up feeling like real people. This is a gritty apocalyptic tale with interludes of just enjoying sweet moments.
December 15, 2023
Excellent book!
I have read many by this author and this is one of the best. Great character development and story lines. Edge of your seat action. Cannot wait for more. I highly recommend!!!
I have read many by this author and this is one of the best. Great character development and story lines. Edge of your seat action. Cannot wait for more. I highly recommend!!!
December 15, 2023
Entertaining
Very enjoyable. It kept my interest the whole way through. I eagerly await the next book in the series. The author paints a unique landscape. I know I will look for other books by this author.
Very enjoyable. It kept my interest the whole way through. I eagerly await the next book in the series. The author paints a unique landscape. I know I will look for other books by this author.
December 25, 2023
Like a ride on a really scary roller coaster!
Lots of action in a well laid post-apocalyptic world. True to form, Ms Vixen fills the in between with loving, caring relationships , and plenty of hot adult fun!
Lots of action in a well laid post-apocalyptic world. True to form, Ms Vixen fills the in between with loving, caring relationships , and plenty of hot adult fun!
January 24, 2024
What a life
Loving the storyline and the MC. Great thought process on what could happen. Again Misty has brought a regular guy and turned them into a hero. Can't wait for the next installment of this series. Love her work and will be here waiting for the next one.
Loving the storyline and the MC. Great thought process on what could happen. Again Misty has brought a regular guy and turned them into a hero. Can't wait for the next installment of this series. Love her work and will be here waiting for the next one.
June 9, 2024
Couldn't get into it.
Sorry Ms Vixen, I have read your books before and found them to be good. But I found this one to be slow and boring. Keep writing and I will keep changing things out.
Sorry Ms Vixen, I have read your books before and found them to be good. But I found this one to be slow and boring. Keep writing and I will keep changing things out.
August 4, 2024
Slow start but steadily got better and then the story sucked you in and you hated to put it down.
Good story line that kept.you interested and made you think of the crazy things that could happen to the world.
Good story line that kept.you interested and made you think of the crazy things that could happen to the world.
April 29, 2025
This author has a heck of a way of writing a post apocalyptic world, and including some fun spicy scenes.
The story kept my attention to the point where I was ready to buy both books 2 and 3 even before finishing book 1.
The story kept my attention to the point where I was ready to buy both books 2 and 3 even before finishing book 1.
November 9, 2023
Really good book 1
Definitely enjoyed this book. MC is likable, the plot is interesting, and the supporting characters are not braindead idiots. Definitely will read book 2.
Definitely enjoyed this book. MC is likable, the plot is interesting, and the supporting characters are not braindead idiots. Definitely will read book 2.
December 6, 2023
Good read
Takes you on a roller-coaster ride through dark tunnels and falling in love. Exciting fights and well thought out plot line.
Takes you on a roller-coaster ride through dark tunnels and falling in love. Exciting fights and well thought out plot line.
December 13, 2023
action
I story is original and fresh. I loved the characters and how you cared what happened to them. Looking forward to reading the next volumes.
I story is original and fresh. I loved the characters and how you cared what happened to them. Looking forward to reading the next volumes.
December 17, 2023
Awesome
Not like most book by Misty Vixen it had a slower pace which I love with a good amount of action and romance and not just the spicy stuff.
Not like most book by Misty Vixen it had a slower pace which I love with a good amount of action and romance and not just the spicy stuff.
December 23, 2023
Awesome book
I've ready pretty much all Misty' s books so far. This one is my favorite. Liking the setting, the characters, the interactions, it's quality material.
I've ready pretty much all Misty' s books so far. This one is my favorite. Liking the setting, the characters, the interactions, it's quality material.
December 24, 2023
Your best work yet
Outstanding, really really Outstanding. You seem to have turned a page. Really good Misty. I can't wait for more. Soon please!
Outstanding, really really Outstanding. You seem to have turned a page. Really good Misty. I can't wait for more. Soon please!
January 5, 2024
Review
Great job Misty very interesting story. Need book two ASAP It's nice to read a pleasant book with a good script and a realistic adult theme
Great job Misty very interesting story. Need book two ASAP It's nice to read a pleasant book with a good script and a realistic adult theme
January 18, 2024
nice
Good story. Has that very neat post apocalyptic vibe with a bit of sci-fi. Looking forward to the next one.
Good story. Has that very neat post apocalyptic vibe with a bit of sci-fi. Looking forward to the next one.
January 28, 2024
Review.
I was genuinely surprised at how well this book is, I can't wait to read the second book. Can't wait to see where the story goes
I was genuinely surprised at how well this book is, I can't wait to read the second book. Can't wait to see where the story goes
June 29, 2024
No magic
Lost a star due to no magic in the story. I was hoping Ethan would have see one kind of genetic fantasy powers but nope....plain boring mortal human.
Lost a star due to no magic in the story. I was hoping Ethan would have see one kind of genetic fantasy powers but nope....plain boring mortal human.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews