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From the Ashes
Follow Harold Lancaster, a retired San Francisco police officer, as he witnesses the devastation of humanity after a worldwide viral terrorist attack that will change the course of history forever!
Harry learns that he and his family, as well as a portion of what remains of the population, is immune to the mutated virus that has been unleashed. During forced relocation, his young nephew is separated from his parents and left in a world now ruled by anarchy and filled with horrors beyond comprehension. Harry's unshakable resolve, his only reason to exist, is to reach his nephew and reunite with the rest of his family. Along with a small band of friends who refuse to leave his side, and after assisting in establishing a safe haven on Angel Island in the San Francisco Bay, Harry embarks on an arduous twenty-three hundred mile trek across a ravaged country.
Although Harry faces the infected and unspeakable horrors, he also discovers incredible acts of courage and resolve by those who remain among the Survivors of the Dead!
FROM THE ASHES begins Harry's journey with at least two more books in the series forthcoming. Book Two, THE ROAD UNKNOWN, coming fall of 2014!
EDITORIAL REVIEW:
"Tony Baker brings a wealth of real world experience, as well as a commitment to serving others, into the midst of a zombie apocalypse that shatters society as we know it. When the chips are down we should all be so lucky as to have “Dirty Harry Lancaster” show up on our doorstep. Baker mixes humor and horror in a lively tale of apocalyptic survival, always with the highest ideals, but often compromised by circumstance. This debut novel shows promise for a long and entertaining series that should stand out from the crowd of zombie fiction.
"It is truly humbling that Tony chose to base his apocalyptic adventure on the scenario introduced by the Sovereign Spirit Saga. It was an honor to give him permission to quote and refer to characters and events described in my series. It is my sincere hope that readers who enjoyed my books will be equally entertained by Tony Baker’s “Survivors of the Dead: Out of the Ashes” and future works in this series."
David P. Forsyth
Author of The Sovereign Spirit Saga
Harry learns that he and his family, as well as a portion of what remains of the population, is immune to the mutated virus that has been unleashed. During forced relocation, his young nephew is separated from his parents and left in a world now ruled by anarchy and filled with horrors beyond comprehension. Harry's unshakable resolve, his only reason to exist, is to reach his nephew and reunite with the rest of his family. Along with a small band of friends who refuse to leave his side, and after assisting in establishing a safe haven on Angel Island in the San Francisco Bay, Harry embarks on an arduous twenty-three hundred mile trek across a ravaged country.
Although Harry faces the infected and unspeakable horrors, he also discovers incredible acts of courage and resolve by those who remain among the Survivors of the Dead!
FROM THE ASHES begins Harry's journey with at least two more books in the series forthcoming. Book Two, THE ROAD UNKNOWN, coming fall of 2014!
EDITORIAL REVIEW:
"Tony Baker brings a wealth of real world experience, as well as a commitment to serving others, into the midst of a zombie apocalypse that shatters society as we know it. When the chips are down we should all be so lucky as to have “Dirty Harry Lancaster” show up on our doorstep. Baker mixes humor and horror in a lively tale of apocalyptic survival, always with the highest ideals, but often compromised by circumstance. This debut novel shows promise for a long and entertaining series that should stand out from the crowd of zombie fiction.
"It is truly humbling that Tony chose to base his apocalyptic adventure on the scenario introduced by the Sovereign Spirit Saga. It was an honor to give him permission to quote and refer to characters and events described in my series. It is my sincere hope that readers who enjoyed my books will be equally entertained by Tony Baker’s “Survivors of the Dead: Out of the Ashes” and future works in this series."
David P. Forsyth
Author of The Sovereign Spirit Saga
208 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 15, 2014
27 people are currently reading
172 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 28 reviews
January 22, 2014
For me, there were very few could-not-wait-to-read zombie novels due out at the end of 2013 / beginning of 2014. Tony Baker's debut, Survivors of the Dead: From the Ashes, however, was one of them. Over the last four months I've gotten to know the author on social media outlets. His humble networking and supportive personality enhanced my interest in his work. As soon as it released, I downloaded it and read the story in two sittings. (Always a good sign).
Harry Lancaster is a retired San Francisco Police Officer. A man who was always happy patrolling, and not interested in the politics tied to what came with higher rank promotions. A simple man, he worked full time taking care of an apartment building. The free rent that was included as a benefit aided a guy on an otherwise fixed income from a modest government pension.
When the zombie outbreak occurs, Lancaster is nearly at a loss. Unsure what is happening in his building, Lancaster does a floor by floor search. He determines two things immediately. Something is wrong, very, very wrong. And he is far too old to still be dealing with such shenanigans. The best goal first goal he can think of us is weapons. He knows he needs more weapons to protect himself. The police department where he once worked will be stockpiled.
Teamed up with a veteran and rookie cop, Lancaster maps out a plan. Getting to an island by boat might be the best chance at surviving the attack until the government can regain control of the country. Alcatraz or Treasure Island will be safer than scrambling around on the mainland looking for some safe haven.
A simple journey from one point to another, a few measly miles, has become a trek that will challenge Lancaster and his small band of police officers. They have their work cut out as they face down hordes of zombies, help frightened people and encounter less-than friendly enemies in Survivors of the Dead: From the Ashes.
With an engaging plot and a host of memorable characters, I applaud Baker's debut. The writing is tight. The dialogue is believable. Baker knows how to explain police and military procedures and weapons in a way that is educational, without being instructional. I enjoyed the Bay area references. Felt like I was there, a part of the team. The set up at the end of From the Ashes for the second in the series was perfect. I know I cannot wait to see what happens next!
--Phillip Tomasso
Zombie-Guide Magazine
Author of The Vaccination Trilogy
Harry Lancaster is a retired San Francisco Police Officer. A man who was always happy patrolling, and not interested in the politics tied to what came with higher rank promotions. A simple man, he worked full time taking care of an apartment building. The free rent that was included as a benefit aided a guy on an otherwise fixed income from a modest government pension.
When the zombie outbreak occurs, Lancaster is nearly at a loss. Unsure what is happening in his building, Lancaster does a floor by floor search. He determines two things immediately. Something is wrong, very, very wrong. And he is far too old to still be dealing with such shenanigans. The best goal first goal he can think of us is weapons. He knows he needs more weapons to protect himself. The police department where he once worked will be stockpiled.
Teamed up with a veteran and rookie cop, Lancaster maps out a plan. Getting to an island by boat might be the best chance at surviving the attack until the government can regain control of the country. Alcatraz or Treasure Island will be safer than scrambling around on the mainland looking for some safe haven.
A simple journey from one point to another, a few measly miles, has become a trek that will challenge Lancaster and his small band of police officers. They have their work cut out as they face down hordes of zombies, help frightened people and encounter less-than friendly enemies in Survivors of the Dead: From the Ashes.
With an engaging plot and a host of memorable characters, I applaud Baker's debut. The writing is tight. The dialogue is believable. Baker knows how to explain police and military procedures and weapons in a way that is educational, without being instructional. I enjoyed the Bay area references. Felt like I was there, a part of the team. The set up at the end of From the Ashes for the second in the series was perfect. I know I cannot wait to see what happens next!
--Phillip Tomasso
Zombie-Guide Magazine
Author of The Vaccination Trilogy
March 14, 2014
SURVIVORS OF THE DEAD was a one of kind reading experience for me. That I'd because I watched the book being born through social media nearly from author Tony Baker's initial announcement that he was beginning rhe writing process. The man has balls as a writer. He promoted and marketed this book line before the majority was written there were book trailers and cover images set to go as he first out pen to paper. I'm a day and age wher many boldly proclaim thru are going to write a book and fail, Baker followed through to the end. That alone is a five star effort.
The content itself: let's start with the positive. Class A character development. Baker had a strong personal connection to his characters, that is evident first and foremost. In the end, I cared about these people and that's what counts most. The action in this book is also realistic. The weaponry, vehicles are all described and used with a level of accuracy that shows the authors dedication to research or expertise in policing or both.
Now, there are a few areas that work both to the bebefitcand detriment to the story, I feel. As stated before, the devotion of weaponry and equipment is detailed to a flaw. It got so crazy at one point, the author felt compelled to give the make and model number of a walkie talkie. There's was no need whatsoever for that and it felt like Baker was getting desperate in his attempt to legitimize his knowledge. Thankfully it takes off layer in the story, but almost too late. Second, the dialog, although at time felt like I was sitting into a private conversion between two cops, more often felt stiff and maybe even a little forced.
Third,Baker adds a unique characteristic to his zombies, imperative in the saturated market. These zombies don't like water, not one bit. So much so they even run from fog. This is great except when you start to think about it, then why are they hanging out in droves in the bay city of San Francisco? Or ecen more perplexing in massive hordes at the cities marinas? Just an observation there.
All in all, if you are a fan of straight forward zombie action thrillers, you're going to enjoy SURVIVORS OF THE DEAD by rookie novelist, Tony Baker. Despite its flaw, the characters are strong enough to root for and you may even find that you took well want to follow them further on their journey through this series.
The content itself: let's start with the positive. Class A character development. Baker had a strong personal connection to his characters, that is evident first and foremost. In the end, I cared about these people and that's what counts most. The action in this book is also realistic. The weaponry, vehicles are all described and used with a level of accuracy that shows the authors dedication to research or expertise in policing or both.
Now, there are a few areas that work both to the bebefitcand detriment to the story, I feel. As stated before, the devotion of weaponry and equipment is detailed to a flaw. It got so crazy at one point, the author felt compelled to give the make and model number of a walkie talkie. There's was no need whatsoever for that and it felt like Baker was getting desperate in his attempt to legitimize his knowledge. Thankfully it takes off layer in the story, but almost too late. Second, the dialog, although at time felt like I was sitting into a private conversion between two cops, more often felt stiff and maybe even a little forced.
Third,Baker adds a unique characteristic to his zombies, imperative in the saturated market. These zombies don't like water, not one bit. So much so they even run from fog. This is great except when you start to think about it, then why are they hanging out in droves in the bay city of San Francisco? Or ecen more perplexing in massive hordes at the cities marinas? Just an observation there.
All in all, if you are a fan of straight forward zombie action thrillers, you're going to enjoy SURVIVORS OF THE DEAD by rookie novelist, Tony Baker. Despite its flaw, the characters are strong enough to root for and you may even find that you took well want to follow them further on their journey through this series.
December 1, 2024
This book is run of the mill zombie-fare, common as dirt for the time in which it was created. There was nothing to distinguish it from every other dated and cliched zombie book. Even worse, there is hardly any actual zombie action.
January 26, 2014
Survivors of the Dead is the first of hopefully many more books from first time author Tony Baker where we meet Harry Lancaster, a retired cop and now apartment manager, who's world is suddenly turned upside down with the arrival of a pesky zombie apocalypse. Harry very quickly figures out what's happening in his beloved city of San Francisco, and decides to leave and try get to his own family across the country.
Harry joins up with 2 active cops, one of whom he knows from old, and it is this meeting that injects the humour into the story, with plenty of gags going backwards and forwards between the three of them, and it's this that forges a tight bond and an unbreakable friendship that will see them through the apocalypse.
The story briefly links up with David P. Forsythe's Sovereign Spirit Saga series, which it turns out Tony had a hand in writing a small piece for, like I said it is only a brief link but it does have an influence on how Harry reacts to the situation he suddenly finds himself in.
As I mentioned, this is Tony's first book, and already I think he's got a winning formula going here with this series and future releases.
Harry joins up with 2 active cops, one of whom he knows from old, and it is this meeting that injects the humour into the story, with plenty of gags going backwards and forwards between the three of them, and it's this that forges a tight bond and an unbreakable friendship that will see them through the apocalypse.
The story briefly links up with David P. Forsythe's Sovereign Spirit Saga series, which it turns out Tony had a hand in writing a small piece for, like I said it is only a brief link but it does have an influence on how Harry reacts to the situation he suddenly finds himself in.
As I mentioned, this is Tony's first book, and already I think he's got a winning formula going here with this series and future releases.
February 24, 2014
This book is a very good "first" in what is likely to be a series. This story takes place in San Francisco. The main character is a retired policeman who reluctantly finds himself in the position of leading a small group of survivors during a zombie apocalypse. I like the main character of the story, Harry. I enjoy his interactions with the other main characters- the humor and camaraderie is refreshing. There are times, however, when the dialogue drags on a bit. Some of the scenes are a little too long, while others are a tad too short. Overall, Baker's first venture into writing is well-done and definitely worth the read. I am looking forward to reading the second book when it comes out. Thanks for a great story, Mr. Baker!
January 19, 2014
Tony Baker has created an engaging story of one man's reaction to the world gone to hell. The level of detail to police weapons and tactics is quite accurate, and he adds an original twist to the zombie genre with an interesting weakness.
All in all, the narrative was engaging and witty and the characters were well developed. I was unable to put this down until it was over.
If I had one thing to quibble about, there are some points where action scenes are put on hold for some copious details/backstory, though overall this was a good read. (I am not a tremendous fan of zombie fiction, and I thought this was well done.)
All in all, the narrative was engaging and witty and the characters were well developed. I was unable to put this down until it was over.
If I had one thing to quibble about, there are some points where action scenes are put on hold for some copious details/backstory, though overall this was a good read. (I am not a tremendous fan of zombie fiction, and I thought this was well done.)
March 4, 2014
Not bad. It's a straightforward zombie survival story that takes place in San Francisco. The main character is strong and well done. The story adds one unique twist to the zombies, as they are disoriented by something (no spoiler in this review).
Eventually the main character teams up with others that he finds, and proceeds to try to locate a safe haven for everyone. When everything is wrapped up, the main character discovers that a relative is alive in the middle of the USA, and heads out to locate him, preparing for a sequel novel.
Eventually the main character teams up with others that he finds, and proceeds to try to locate a safe haven for everyone. When everything is wrapped up, the main character discovers that a relative is alive in the middle of the USA, and heads out to locate him, preparing for a sequel novel.
January 17, 2014
Very good start to this series set in the same world as Sovereign Spirit saga, only slight quibble which dropped a star for me was no credible bad guys, most of the characters were just too nice, but never the less an excellent read.
February 14, 2014
Good reading
Good reading
I really enjoyed this book, I enjoyed the characters and there friendship, their will to survive, definitely looking forward to the next one.
Good reading
I really enjoyed this book, I enjoyed the characters and there friendship, their will to survive, definitely looking forward to the next one.
January 1, 2015
Excellent job Tony!
Great story and very well written. I am really looking forward to the next book in the series. Lot's of action and the characters are both smart and read as real people. I like how it tied into the other story line. Pretty cool!
Great story and very well written. I am really looking forward to the next book in the series. Lot's of action and the characters are both smart and read as real people. I like how it tied into the other story line. Pretty cool!
March 1, 2014
I've read a zillion zombie books, love the genre! This one stands out as being one of the better ones. I devoured the book and was connected to the characters. Had a very nice mix of humor with the horror. Extremely readable. Looks like the first in a series. Carry on Mr Baker.
March 8, 2014
Starts,off running and never slows down.
well developed characters,Harry is a survivor!!!! hope next books has the thrills like this one. Mr. Baker
keep writing and never stop!!!
well developed characters,Harry is a survivor!!!! hope next books has the thrills like this one. Mr. Baker
keep writing and never stop!!!
April 13, 2014
Not a single female voice to be heard, you get the feeling these men have finally been allowed to plunder the toy box. I felt very little emotional connection between the characters and between myself and the characters. I would read the second boom to see if there is any improvement.
January 17, 2014
Great book
really enjoyed this book read it in one setting can't wait for the next one. really great book to read
really enjoyed this book read it in one setting can't wait for the next one. really great book to read
Read
February 9, 2014Great book
the story is well thought out and you get to know the character.
I like the story and I will buy the next installment.
thank you!
the story is well thought out and you get to know the character.
I like the story and I will buy the next installment.
thank you!
March 7, 2014
Recommended to me through Facebook's zombie book of the month club, and now I'm desperate for the sequel!
March 8, 2014
Great Zombie book!! Can hardly wait for the second one named 'The Road Unknown'! Smooth reading, started and finished it in one day!!!
January 1, 2020
2020 visiting a friend
First book of the new year. I like visiting favorites. This book is one if them. I hope Tony is well as we miss him. I hope the next book comes out soon, because this book has a heck of a tease for what is next.
First book of the new year. I like visiting favorites. This book is one if them. I hope Tony is well as we miss him. I hope the next book comes out soon, because this book has a heck of a tease for what is next.
December 1, 2022
A horrifying trip through post apocalypse San Francisco
Tony Baker has written a great book about surviving the zombie apocalypse while maintaining ones humanity. Survivors of the Dead: From the Ashes is full of tense moments that keep you on the edge.of your seat.
Tony Baker has written a great book about surviving the zombie apocalypse while maintaining ones humanity. Survivors of the Dead: From the Ashes is full of tense moments that keep you on the edge.of your seat.
September 27, 2016
Where's the next book already??
July 28, 2014
My full From the Ashes (Survivors of the Dead Book 1) audiobook review can be found at Audiobook Reviewer.
Tony Baker's Survivors of the Dead: From the Ashes was excellent. Mr. Baker very easily and vividly painted the journey taken by Harry Lancaster, Derick, and Frank in an exciting and detailed manner. From the moment Harry stepped from the apartment complex in San Francisco, he managed since retiring from active police duty and shooting his first zombies, it was a thrilling ride a mile a minute!
Struggling to reach the police department where he volunteered was intensely described so much so that I felt I was making the journey with him! The relationships that are built or already there are solidly built and powerful. Torn from wanting - needing - to help others, Harry reminds himself he's "just too old for this sh*t." 2.5 decades of service teaches Harry to be observant and he realizes the weakness of some of the zombies and uses it to his advantage.
The Clint Eastwood connection is strikingly strong - not only are there similarities between Harry and Clint (Harry loves the Clint Eastwood movies) but the narrator makes sure you "hear" Clint Eastwood whenever Harry speaks. Excellently executed!
Not only is the book seriously written (as is the case with most zombie books) the humor and connection between the characters is not forced but flows naturally. The dialog is easy and realistic and even though the "just too old for this sh*t" is repeated often, it is realistic - many of us have a relative who is often times repeating something - it's their catch phrase. For Harry this one is appropriate and helps listeners to connect more easily.
It was evident from the beginning that Mr. Baker did his research and it shows in the details of the characters using the guns, descriptions and other activities performed by the three lead characters. Powerful to the end, rich with description and brilliantly written - this book is a "must listen to!"
This audiobook is one that will grab you and won't let go until you hear "the end"; and even then, you will be more than ready to learn what happens with Harry's nephew and family in Indiana and the difficult and deadly journey of Harry, Frank and Derrick to reach them.
Audiobook provided for review by the author.
Tony Baker's Survivors of the Dead: From the Ashes was excellent. Mr. Baker very easily and vividly painted the journey taken by Harry Lancaster, Derick, and Frank in an exciting and detailed manner. From the moment Harry stepped from the apartment complex in San Francisco, he managed since retiring from active police duty and shooting his first zombies, it was a thrilling ride a mile a minute!
Struggling to reach the police department where he volunteered was intensely described so much so that I felt I was making the journey with him! The relationships that are built or already there are solidly built and powerful. Torn from wanting - needing - to help others, Harry reminds himself he's "just too old for this sh*t." 2.5 decades of service teaches Harry to be observant and he realizes the weakness of some of the zombies and uses it to his advantage.
The Clint Eastwood connection is strikingly strong - not only are there similarities between Harry and Clint (Harry loves the Clint Eastwood movies) but the narrator makes sure you "hear" Clint Eastwood whenever Harry speaks. Excellently executed!
Not only is the book seriously written (as is the case with most zombie books) the humor and connection between the characters is not forced but flows naturally. The dialog is easy and realistic and even though the "just too old for this sh*t" is repeated often, it is realistic - many of us have a relative who is often times repeating something - it's their catch phrase. For Harry this one is appropriate and helps listeners to connect more easily.
It was evident from the beginning that Mr. Baker did his research and it shows in the details of the characters using the guns, descriptions and other activities performed by the three lead characters. Powerful to the end, rich with description and brilliantly written - this book is a "must listen to!"
This audiobook is one that will grab you and won't let go until you hear "the end"; and even then, you will be more than ready to learn what happens with Harry's nephew and family in Indiana and the difficult and deadly journey of Harry, Frank and Derrick to reach them.
Audiobook provided for review by the author.
June 11, 2015
I am a big reader of zombie stories and I am always looking for something new to read with a different look at the zombie apocalypse. Survivors of the Dead: From the Ashes was that different look at it!
Harry Lancaster, retired police officer, living his daily life and then BAM! The apocalypse hits and he is thrown into the role of hero! His character is handled as a normal officer handling a crisis and also as a person with a strong will to survive. He is not a super hero or someone with special powers but he is a man who knows how to handle tough situations and they don’t get much tougher than what he is up against! With no help in sight, Harry joins up with fellow police officers to try and get to a safe haven and taking a many other survivors along with them as possible. With great characters and a great storyline, Mr. Baker takes the reader on a trip into a world filled with terror and horror in the form of infected people intent on killing and eating other humans. With detailed descriptions of the action, zombies, attacks, weapons and survivors the reader can visualize everything that is happening on each and every page. I am eagerly awaiting book two in this series to continue on this journey of survival with Harry and to see who will make it in the end. This is a must add to everyone’s reading list if they enjoy a great zombie story!
Harry Lancaster, retired police officer, living his daily life and then BAM! The apocalypse hits and he is thrown into the role of hero! His character is handled as a normal officer handling a crisis and also as a person with a strong will to survive. He is not a super hero or someone with special powers but he is a man who knows how to handle tough situations and they don’t get much tougher than what he is up against! With no help in sight, Harry joins up with fellow police officers to try and get to a safe haven and taking a many other survivors along with them as possible. With great characters and a great storyline, Mr. Baker takes the reader on a trip into a world filled with terror and horror in the form of infected people intent on killing and eating other humans. With detailed descriptions of the action, zombies, attacks, weapons and survivors the reader can visualize everything that is happening on each and every page. I am eagerly awaiting book two in this series to continue on this journey of survival with Harry and to see who will make it in the end. This is a must add to everyone’s reading list if they enjoy a great zombie story!
September 13, 2016
Started good
Then it just flatlined for me. I lost interest and didn't care what anyone did. Wouldn't miss any of the characters if they got eaten.
Then it just flatlined for me. I lost interest and didn't care what anyone did. Wouldn't miss any of the characters if they got eaten.
May 19, 2015
Pretty good zombie apocalypse tale. Retired San Francisco police officer Harry Lancaster called back into duty to help survivors where ever possible. Harry and two other officers use a military grade vehicle to get around the city and do what they can. Decent characters with good development. This first book concludes with Harry, his two police friends, and a couple more survivors head off towards Indiana to find Harry's family. Evidently this is planned to be a trilogy although I can only locate this first book. I look forward to the next episode.
April 6, 2015
survivors of the Dead: From the Ashes
Just finished and am already waiting and wanting to read the next one. Smart people make the best traveling companions. Decisions must be made. Who's in charge? Where is there to go? You'll get all these answers and more! You're being led by an unconventional, older leader but he has enough knowledge and respect among his peers. Good adventures await! Tony Baker has me hooked!
Just finished and am already waiting and wanting to read the next one. Smart people make the best traveling companions. Decisions must be made. Who's in charge? Where is there to go? You'll get all these answers and more! You're being led by an unconventional, older leader but he has enough knowledge and respect among his peers. Good adventures await! Tony Baker has me hooked!
May 27, 2014
A great read, if you are a zombie/apocalyptic fiction fan you must read this book. Very believable storyline and engaging characters. A non stop thrill ride, people die and people survive and the world is a very scary place. I can hardly wait for book 2.
July 16, 2015
Great book
I loved Baker's book and I can't wait to read more from him. I didn't want the first book to end
I loved Baker's book and I can't wait to read more from him. I didn't want the first book to end
Displaying 1 - 27 of 28 reviews