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Rapture Trilogy #2
Tribulation
Three years have passed since the Rapture occurred, and teenager Samael was forced to wander the post-apocalyptic world alone to the City of Angels to meet his nemesis and his fate.
Now halfway through the desolate period known as the Tribulation, Sam is still alone, with only his beloved Samurai swords and memories of his loved ones to sustain him. When he ventures into Hell to rescue one lost soul, he encounters demons of a type he has never witnessed before, including a terrifying hellhound and the evil cambions, the Devil’s Hand. And now his father’s horrific plans are uncovered, he must race, one step ahead of them, to turn back the tide of invasion and the downfall of a nation and all that it stands for ...
Tribulation is the eagerly awaited follow up to Rapture, which has garnered a massive YA following throughout the world. The third book, Apocalypse, will be published in 2013.
Teen/YA
Now halfway through the desolate period known as the Tribulation, Sam is still alone, with only his beloved Samurai swords and memories of his loved ones to sustain him. When he ventures into Hell to rescue one lost soul, he encounters demons of a type he has never witnessed before, including a terrifying hellhound and the evil cambions, the Devil’s Hand. And now his father’s horrific plans are uncovered, he must race, one step ahead of them, to turn back the tide of invasion and the downfall of a nation and all that it stands for ...
Tribulation is the eagerly awaited follow up to Rapture, which has garnered a massive YA following throughout the world. The third book, Apocalypse, will be published in 2013.
Teen/YA
ebook
First published January 1, 2012
7 people are currently reading
508 people want to read
About the author
Phillip W. Simpson
52 books121 followersPhillip W. Simpson is the author of many novels, chapter books and other stories for children. His publishers include Macmillan, Penguin, Pearson, Cengage, Raintree and Oxford University Press. He received his undergraduate degree in Ancient History and Archaeology, his Masters (Hons) degree in Archaeology and his Masters (Hons) degree in Creative Writing from the University of Auckland. He is currently working towards his Doctorate in Education, focusing on teaching children's creative writing. Before embarking on his writing career, he joined the army as an officer cadet, owned a comic shop and worked in recruitment in both the UK and Australia. His first young adult novel, Rapture (Rapture Trilogy #1), was shortlisted for the Sir Julius Vogel Awards for best Youth novel in 2012.
He is represented by Vicki Marsdon at Wordlink literary agency. When not writing, he works as a school teacher. Phillip lives and writes in Auckland, New Zealand with his wife Rose, their son, Jack and their two border terriers, Whiskey and Raffles. He loves fishing, reading, movies, football (soccer) and single malt Whiskeys.
He is represented by Vicki Marsdon at Wordlink literary agency. When not writing, he works as a school teacher. Phillip lives and writes in Auckland, New Zealand with his wife Rose, their son, Jack and their two border terriers, Whiskey and Raffles. He loves fishing, reading, movies, football (soccer) and single malt Whiskeys.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
June 7, 2016
Not as great as the first book but still a really good read!
The Tribulations are half over. Sam has been turning demons to ash for three and a half years and now he can see a light at the end of the tunnel. But what that light is he has no idea. What reward awaits him for his good works?
There is no end to the action, though there are some slow spots, as Sam fights his way across country learning what he's capable of as he goes. It's a fun read. It kept me engaged. I continued to be invested in what happens to Sam. I can't wait to find out how it all ends!
May 16, 2013
Quick review:
Cover: Fitting
Rating: PG-13
Thumbs Up: 5
Overall: I was extremely caught up in the story
Characters: Well Done
Plot: Protect the innocents, kill the Antichrist and not let your fate get you down
Page Turner: Yes
Series Cont.? Yes
Recommend: Yes
Book Boyfriend: Sam
SUMMARY (60 words or less)
I’ve been wanting to read this one for some time but life stop me. Only able to find time to listen to books. But I’m so glad I finally read. It’s like a breath of fresh air to read a really good story. Although this book has religious roots, you don’t have to be religious to enjoy. No preaching.
For a full review and yummy pic, see my blog post at:
http://mybookboyfriend.blogspot.com/2...
Cover: Fitting
Rating: PG-13
Thumbs Up: 5
Overall: I was extremely caught up in the story
Characters: Well Done
Plot: Protect the innocents, kill the Antichrist and not let your fate get you down
Page Turner: Yes
Series Cont.? Yes
Recommend: Yes
Book Boyfriend: Sam
SUMMARY (60 words or less)
I’ve been wanting to read this one for some time but life stop me. Only able to find time to listen to books. But I’m so glad I finally read. It’s like a breath of fresh air to read a really good story. Although this book has religious roots, you don’t have to be religious to enjoy. No preaching.
For a full review and yummy pic, see my blog post at:
http://mybookboyfriend.blogspot.com/2...
January 18, 2013
I was given Tribulation by the author Phillip W. Simpson in exchange for my review and I have to say that I liked it. Although I was blown away with Rapture and it's fast pace, Tribulation sort of stayed in the middle ground for me. For the majority of the time, I found myself wondering where the story would lead, and finding it a little lulling. But, then it would kick in and get you excited for the action and turn in events. The subject matter is dark and trying to find a moment of happiness in the book was somewhat difficult. But, we get to read a glimpse with certain scenes with Aimi in them. Though, they were heartbreaking too.
It pretty much picks up months later from where Rapture left off, with half-demon, Sam, still trying to save the innocent human's left behind. He is still very alone and fighting off all kinds of demons, including the ones stirring up in him. At times, Sam doubts himself and he loses faith in his mission for a moment, which is a given, considering all that he does and is repeatedly informed he will never step a foot in heaven. I really feel sorry for Sam because of this. He is the son of Satan, yet has humility and love in his heart, and he selflessly does what he must and can to help save the humans still roaming the scorched earth. Yet, he knows that there is no hope for him when Christ will rise again, except being thrown into the pits of hell, alongside his father, the antichrist (his brother) and the false prophet, who you will be surprised to learn about.
However, throughout all this, Sam carries on with fierce determination and strength to help those who need him more than ever. Europe has been conquered and America is about to fall. He must, with the help of some of his friends along the way, stop this before it's too late. No matter what happens to him, whether his fate is sealed, Sam will stop at nothing to do what's right for the sake of humanity. And, that is what is most important. For a half-demon, Sam's faith, although sometimes wavers, always remains true to him and his purpose.
Tribulation, although reads at a steady pace, is still a good read and although it didn't grip me like I thought it would, I still enjoyed reading it. The ending was riveting and very thrilling, and left me hanging. Enough to have me wanting to read the final instalment to this highly unique series.
It pretty much picks up months later from where Rapture left off, with half-demon, Sam, still trying to save the innocent human's left behind. He is still very alone and fighting off all kinds of demons, including the ones stirring up in him. At times, Sam doubts himself and he loses faith in his mission for a moment, which is a given, considering all that he does and is repeatedly informed he will never step a foot in heaven. I really feel sorry for Sam because of this. He is the son of Satan, yet has humility and love in his heart, and he selflessly does what he must and can to help save the humans still roaming the scorched earth. Yet, he knows that there is no hope for him when Christ will rise again, except being thrown into the pits of hell, alongside his father, the antichrist (his brother) and the false prophet, who you will be surprised to learn about.
However, throughout all this, Sam carries on with fierce determination and strength to help those who need him more than ever. Europe has been conquered and America is about to fall. He must, with the help of some of his friends along the way, stop this before it's too late. No matter what happens to him, whether his fate is sealed, Sam will stop at nothing to do what's right for the sake of humanity. And, that is what is most important. For a half-demon, Sam's faith, although sometimes wavers, always remains true to him and his purpose.
Tribulation, although reads at a steady pace, is still a good read and although it didn't grip me like I thought it would, I still enjoyed reading it. The ending was riveting and very thrilling, and left me hanging. Enough to have me wanting to read the final instalment to this highly unique series.
December 12, 2012
Don’t get me wrong – I love a book series. What I hate is the time you wait in between books. It’s a year since Rapture came out and I’ve been eagerly waiting for Tribulation to follow, so I picked up my copy and dived in, ready to catch up with Sam and his battle against the demons that roam the world. Ah, but I’d forgotten what happened at the end of Rapture. What happened with Grace? Where did Joshua go? Don’t you just hate it when your memory fails you? Never mind, I have my own copy of Rapture, the advantage to having bought instead of borrowed, so I caught up with the last two chapters of Rapture and was then right up to speed with the opening of Tribulation.
In Tribulation we see Sam develop as a character. In Rapture, Sam is almost overshadowed by his upbringing prior to the Rapture, shown in flashbacks, but in Tribulation, three and a half years after Rapture, Sam is his own man, alone and still protecting the innocents while fighting demons, demon-worshippers and all manner of Hell dwellers now reaping havoc on a scorched earth. In Tribulation Sam shows his vulnerabilities - physical, emotional and mental. Life is tough even for a half-demon in a post-cataclysmic world. He battles temptation and doubt while dealing with betrayal and loss as much as he does battles with all Hell’s deadly forces.
The story cracks along at a furious pace and was very hard to put down, especially towards the end as it builds towards a bone-snapping climax. Does he defeat Satan’s forces and his own brother, the Antichrist? You’ll have to read Tribulation to find out.
All I can say is - I hope I don’t have to wait too long for the next book in the series: Apocalypse.
In Tribulation we see Sam develop as a character. In Rapture, Sam is almost overshadowed by his upbringing prior to the Rapture, shown in flashbacks, but in Tribulation, three and a half years after Rapture, Sam is his own man, alone and still protecting the innocents while fighting demons, demon-worshippers and all manner of Hell dwellers now reaping havoc on a scorched earth. In Tribulation Sam shows his vulnerabilities - physical, emotional and mental. Life is tough even for a half-demon in a post-cataclysmic world. He battles temptation and doubt while dealing with betrayal and loss as much as he does battles with all Hell’s deadly forces.
The story cracks along at a furious pace and was very hard to put down, especially towards the end as it builds towards a bone-snapping climax. Does he defeat Satan’s forces and his own brother, the Antichrist? You’ll have to read Tribulation to find out.
All I can say is - I hope I don’t have to wait too long for the next book in the series: Apocalypse.
January 25, 2013
The thought of being stuck in a world so devastated by demons and destruction and not be able to get any relief from the situation. Sam is such a person in this predicament. He is stuck in hell on Earth, saving humans and risking life and limb to save those who were not worthy enough for the rapture. He is half demon and can never go to Heaven. His father is Satan and the only place for Sam is Hell.
In Tribulation, Sam does regain hope about his mother and does have the opportunity to see Aimi once again. Tribulation left you with wanting more, wanting to know what happens. Does Sam get to take Aimi or is his love going to leave in the bliss she is in?
I love this story and the way it is going. At times it lagged and the scenes went on a little longer than it could have but the plot is amazing.
In Tribulation, Sam does regain hope about his mother and does have the opportunity to see Aimi once again. Tribulation left you with wanting more, wanting to know what happens. Does Sam get to take Aimi or is his love going to leave in the bliss she is in?
I love this story and the way it is going. At times it lagged and the scenes went on a little longer than it could have but the plot is amazing.
March 7, 2015
Little Lass Muses
Genre: Young Adult, Apocalyptic, Angel, Demons, Paranormal, Romance, fantasy
Cover: The only change was to the color of the fire and that is fine with me... Why change it, it works and lets us know it's part of the same trilogy.
Thumbs: 4 Out 4 Up
Overall: Very intense having no idea which way the author would go at times. It's a unique twist to the rapture and tribulation that only a fan of both God and the paranormal could dream up. I found that I like the paranormal POV the same if not more than another popular Juvenile left behind series that came on the success of Left Behind.
Characters: Stronger, better developed, more raw emotions, real/ believable.
Plot: Moved smoothly, gripping- edge of your seat daring one to ask, "Is this remotely possible? If so could I/ would I survive?"
Page Turner: Yes, hard to put down!
Recommend: Yes! Young, old and everyone between!
My Book Boyfriend: Who am I kidding... It's Sam. All that faith, strength, devotion, and emotion. How can you not love him.
Most Like Me or who I want to be: I would love to have an unwavering faith such as Hikari, Aimi, and Sam.
Little Lass Random Thoughts:
Phillip W. Simpson had me hooked with the first book and book 2 was even better. Most series I notice slack off and are not as good as the first. However, I was on a cliffs edges from beginning to end. The writing improved and I loved all the characters even the ones I didn't. I was shocked that Sam bonded with the hell hound and it worries me. BUT MOST OF ALL... OMG... the epic climax at the end... I wasn't sure if I wanted to breakdown and cry, throw my kindle or hold my breath. It is one ending that will have your heart pounding and your mind going stir crazy until the next book.
Our Favorite Random Quotes:
Normally we post our favorite quotes here. However we were both so engrossed in the story that we just couldn't make our self's stop and list them.
Novel Lass Reviews:
I must say, that Phillip W Simpson did an excellent job at keeping me intrigued and guessing. Where PWS faltered in Rapture, allowing the reader to predict the modern day Judas and failed to deliver reasoning for Sam not seeing the betrayal coming, learned from his error and didn't make the same mistake twice. He surly managed to keep me guessing as what was next to come this time around. His characters were better developed an emotions run high in this installment. The balancing act of religious over tones was washed but not lost in the paranormal telling of the biblical foretold Tribulation.
Sam no longer the naive boy who lost everyone he loved to the Rapture was forced to grow up and be a man in Tribulation. Always knowing who he was and what he had to do had more resolve and convection and a few struggles along the way. Thrust into a leadership type of role he surged forward fighting for the innocent, protecting the weak and made a few friendships along the way. All while knowing with every good deed he would never be allowed into heaven.
The readers bond with Sam in such a way the only leads one to question what Sam's final role will be in the third and final volume. Anyone who has broached the subject of end times knows the devil greatest weapon is deceit. Have we blindly fallen for Sam only for Sam to learn that he too has been deceived himself? Will he surrender to the demonic blood the courses through his veins giving into his suppressed demonic nature and fulfill the father of lies wishes? I can foresee this coming to pass, with the turn f events that took place in the end. Heaven doesn't want him because of his demon blood and hell can't keep him with his untapped demonic power. It always the easy road that is heavily traveled, regardless to where it leads.
Aimi doesn't have a heavy personal presences in the book, though she has her show moments, through it all her memory stays strong with Sam. Providing him the anchor he needs to stay strong, focused and determined to the man she knows him to be. Helping those left behind find salvation and protection. Appearing to Sam, elevated to an angelic being at a critical stage elevated to the two are carried away in their love and passion of being together they cross an invisible unspeakable line. Though the PWS was coy its clear the 2 made love. Aimi having left without a word or warning or a good-bye, I assume must be in connection with "can't tell, rules and all" policy yet it left me questioning. Does Aimi comprehend the impact of their joining will have on Sam's choices when the end approaches, or is she a part of it as well?
In Rapture, I questioned Grace's role in Sam's life. Her reappearance in Tribulation still leaves me questioning her particular role in the choices that Sam makes. It's clear she embodies those that will be questioning God's passion and love during the beyond trying times such as the tribulation and life in general. But her presence still make little sense. Having been saved from the torture rack and brought back/saved from hell, not once but twice, she is the one person aside from Sam I would think should hold steadfast to God not wanting to return to the pit. But then it opens up the hardened heart theory. If she can't seek salvation after all she has suffered from the Tribulation then she turned her back on God long before the Rapture.
It was most excited to get visits from Rapture's supporting cast. It was encouraging and sad in the same thought to learn who survived and who perished and if any who choose the mark. I found Joshua particular reappearance cunning. However was off put at his request. I have to question why Joshua ask Sam to do the exact thing he intended to do in the first place. It make me question if Sam unknowingly sealed his own fate to embody the anti-christ. I/we have so many questions we honestly can't wait for book 3 to hit the shelf.
Genre: Young Adult, Apocalyptic, Angel, Demons, Paranormal, Romance, fantasy
Cover: The only change was to the color of the fire and that is fine with me... Why change it, it works and lets us know it's part of the same trilogy.
Thumbs: 4 Out 4 Up
Overall: Very intense having no idea which way the author would go at times. It's a unique twist to the rapture and tribulation that only a fan of both God and the paranormal could dream up. I found that I like the paranormal POV the same if not more than another popular Juvenile left behind series that came on the success of Left Behind.
Characters: Stronger, better developed, more raw emotions, real/ believable.
Plot: Moved smoothly, gripping- edge of your seat daring one to ask, "Is this remotely possible? If so could I/ would I survive?"
Page Turner: Yes, hard to put down!
Recommend: Yes! Young, old and everyone between!
My Book Boyfriend: Who am I kidding... It's Sam. All that faith, strength, devotion, and emotion. How can you not love him.
Most Like Me or who I want to be: I would love to have an unwavering faith such as Hikari, Aimi, and Sam.
Little Lass Random Thoughts:
Phillip W. Simpson had me hooked with the first book and book 2 was even better. Most series I notice slack off and are not as good as the first. However, I was on a cliffs edges from beginning to end. The writing improved and I loved all the characters even the ones I didn't. I was shocked that Sam bonded with the hell hound and it worries me. BUT MOST OF ALL... OMG... the epic climax at the end... I wasn't sure if I wanted to breakdown and cry, throw my kindle or hold my breath. It is one ending that will have your heart pounding and your mind going stir crazy until the next book.
Our Favorite Random Quotes:
Normally we post our favorite quotes here. However we were both so engrossed in the story that we just couldn't make our self's stop and list them.
Novel Lass Reviews:
I must say, that Phillip W Simpson did an excellent job at keeping me intrigued and guessing. Where PWS faltered in Rapture, allowing the reader to predict the modern day Judas and failed to deliver reasoning for Sam not seeing the betrayal coming, learned from his error and didn't make the same mistake twice. He surly managed to keep me guessing as what was next to come this time around. His characters were better developed an emotions run high in this installment. The balancing act of religious over tones was washed but not lost in the paranormal telling of the biblical foretold Tribulation.
Sam no longer the naive boy who lost everyone he loved to the Rapture was forced to grow up and be a man in Tribulation. Always knowing who he was and what he had to do had more resolve and convection and a few struggles along the way. Thrust into a leadership type of role he surged forward fighting for the innocent, protecting the weak and made a few friendships along the way. All while knowing with every good deed he would never be allowed into heaven.
The readers bond with Sam in such a way the only leads one to question what Sam's final role will be in the third and final volume. Anyone who has broached the subject of end times knows the devil greatest weapon is deceit. Have we blindly fallen for Sam only for Sam to learn that he too has been deceived himself? Will he surrender to the demonic blood the courses through his veins giving into his suppressed demonic nature and fulfill the father of lies wishes? I can foresee this coming to pass, with the turn f events that took place in the end. Heaven doesn't want him because of his demon blood and hell can't keep him with his untapped demonic power. It always the easy road that is heavily traveled, regardless to where it leads.
Aimi doesn't have a heavy personal presences in the book, though she has her show moments, through it all her memory stays strong with Sam. Providing him the anchor he needs to stay strong, focused and determined to the man she knows him to be. Helping those left behind find salvation and protection. Appearing to Sam, elevated to an angelic being at a critical stage elevated to the two are carried away in their love and passion of being together they cross an invisible unspeakable line. Though the PWS was coy its clear the 2 made love. Aimi having left without a word or warning or a good-bye, I assume must be in connection with "can't tell, rules and all" policy yet it left me questioning. Does Aimi comprehend the impact of their joining will have on Sam's choices when the end approaches, or is she a part of it as well?
In Rapture, I questioned Grace's role in Sam's life. Her reappearance in Tribulation still leaves me questioning her particular role in the choices that Sam makes. It's clear she embodies those that will be questioning God's passion and love during the beyond trying times such as the tribulation and life in general. But her presence still make little sense. Having been saved from the torture rack and brought back/saved from hell, not once but twice, she is the one person aside from Sam I would think should hold steadfast to God not wanting to return to the pit. But then it opens up the hardened heart theory. If she can't seek salvation after all she has suffered from the Tribulation then she turned her back on God long before the Rapture.
It was most excited to get visits from Rapture's supporting cast. It was encouraging and sad in the same thought to learn who survived and who perished and if any who choose the mark. I found Joshua particular reappearance cunning. However was off put at his request. I have to question why Joshua ask Sam to do the exact thing he intended to do in the first place. It make me question if Sam unknowingly sealed his own fate to embody the anti-christ. I/we have so many questions we honestly can't wait for book 3 to hit the shelf.
January 27, 2013
I would like to thank the author Mr Simpson for gifting me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Being a second book in the series it had both it had its advantages and drawbacks. Let’s get the negative out of the way first so we can move on to discuss the awesomeness of the book. When I read Rapture, I was enthralled by it. Although Tribulation maintained the fast pace of the first book it didn’t really provide anything new. What we read in Tribulation was more or less same what we had in Rapture. Secondly what irked me about this book was how it had only one character that carried the book. Sam was mostly alone, being on the road and at times his inner monologues used to get a little (read very little) monotonous.
Okay, the drawbacks out of the way, it was an interesting book. It has been three and a half years into the tribulation. Sam is still trying to help the innocents who are braving the hellish Earth and fighting the demons. He is utterly alone and constantly thinks of Aimi. Those were my (one of the) favorite moments in the book. We (along with Sam) get to learn that he will never set foot in the Heaven when Christ returns to Earth at the end of the tribulation. Moreover, he would be cast of to the pits of hell along with his father (the Satan), brother( the Antichrist) and the False Prophet (he will be surprising you…more like shocking you…well, it really shocked me!). Now all this made me really angry (along with Sam). What about the all the good he is doing, saving innocents and all. What about his humility, love and selflessness. All that counts for nothing? But our dear Sam replies with
“It doesn’t change who I am. I’m not suddenly going to stop doing [ saving innocents] what I’m doing. Just because Heaven doesn’t keep its word, doesn’t mean I don’t have to.”
“It was never going to be easy, he reflected, reminding himself why he was doing this. Not for those in Heaven. Not for Him. This was for the innocents. Those who didn’t deserve to be the targets and subjects of the Antichrist’s rage. If Sam killed the Antichrist, surely he would save many innocents.”
Now if these aren’t the words of someone who deserves Heaven, I don’t know who does. Even with all this, he carries on with fierce determination and sheer will power, knowing that it may kill him and it almost did! Even after all this, nobody showed even an ounce of gratitude. Take Grace for example, Sam went to hell to save her but instead of being thankful she snubbed Sam that what made him wait that long! What the nerve! I really couldn’t figure out what her problem was.
One of the best things about this story was the entry of Yeth, a hellhound that became Sam’s most trusted and loyal companion. What the author depicted through Yeth and Sam was that absolutely nobody is born evil. It’s the influences in our lives that deviates us from the path of good.
Overall, I find this book a good read. The plot was consistent and there were no holes or missing pieces in the story. This book has got some cliff hanger. What happens to Sam now that his powers are stripped? Does he get Aimi back? I am definitely awaiting the next installment in the series!
Being a second book in the series it had both it had its advantages and drawbacks. Let’s get the negative out of the way first so we can move on to discuss the awesomeness of the book. When I read Rapture, I was enthralled by it. Although Tribulation maintained the fast pace of the first book it didn’t really provide anything new. What we read in Tribulation was more or less same what we had in Rapture. Secondly what irked me about this book was how it had only one character that carried the book. Sam was mostly alone, being on the road and at times his inner monologues used to get a little (read very little) monotonous.
Okay, the drawbacks out of the way, it was an interesting book. It has been three and a half years into the tribulation. Sam is still trying to help the innocents who are braving the hellish Earth and fighting the demons. He is utterly alone and constantly thinks of Aimi. Those were my (one of the) favorite moments in the book. We (along with Sam) get to learn that he will never set foot in the Heaven when Christ returns to Earth at the end of the tribulation. Moreover, he would be cast of to the pits of hell along with his father (the Satan), brother( the Antichrist) and the False Prophet (he will be surprising you…more like shocking you…well, it really shocked me!). Now all this made me really angry (along with Sam). What about the all the good he is doing, saving innocents and all. What about his humility, love and selflessness. All that counts for nothing? But our dear Sam replies with
“It doesn’t change who I am. I’m not suddenly going to stop doing [ saving innocents] what I’m doing. Just because Heaven doesn’t keep its word, doesn’t mean I don’t have to.”
“It was never going to be easy, he reflected, reminding himself why he was doing this. Not for those in Heaven. Not for Him. This was for the innocents. Those who didn’t deserve to be the targets and subjects of the Antichrist’s rage. If Sam killed the Antichrist, surely he would save many innocents.”
Now if these aren’t the words of someone who deserves Heaven, I don’t know who does. Even with all this, he carries on with fierce determination and sheer will power, knowing that it may kill him and it almost did! Even after all this, nobody showed even an ounce of gratitude. Take Grace for example, Sam went to hell to save her but instead of being thankful she snubbed Sam that what made him wait that long! What the nerve! I really couldn’t figure out what her problem was.
One of the best things about this story was the entry of Yeth, a hellhound that became Sam’s most trusted and loyal companion. What the author depicted through Yeth and Sam was that absolutely nobody is born evil. It’s the influences in our lives that deviates us from the path of good.
Overall, I find this book a good read. The plot was consistent and there were no holes or missing pieces in the story. This book has got some cliff hanger. What happens to Sam now that his powers are stripped? Does he get Aimi back? I am definitely awaiting the next installment in the series!
January 20, 2013
The second book in the Rapture series is filled with more action, more drama and more intrigue than the first book. The stakes have really been raised...which is kind of hard to do considering the first book starts with the end of the world.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Sam is our hero. He's half-demon, half-human ( a Camion). In book one of the series he learns his father is Satan. He was trained by a master swordsman. He wields special swords (katana and wakisashi) designed to kill demons. He's on a mission to protect the innocents left on earth after the rapture from the hordes of demons trying to drag them to hell.
The book starts full-throttle: a rescue mission to hell. From there the stakes are raised every chapter until, by the end, you are nearly as tired as Sam.
THE GOOD
One of the best things about this book is Sam's new companion, a hell hound named Yeth. He's a fierce fighter but, more important, a loyal friend (something Sam has been lacking). You also have non-stop action that is more global now. We move beyond the small corner of the United States and get a glimpse of how bad things are around the world.
The plot is consistent; no gaping holes in logic or believability. The motivations of each character are understandable. And no matter how strong Sam gets he always has limitations; he never becomes a superman. The book ends with a cliffhanger that makes it impossible to not buy the third book in the series. (due out later this year).
THE BAD
It's very hard for a single character to carry the whole book. Sam is alone most of the time..which means there is very little dialogue. This leads to long sections of description. I would have liked Sam to spend more time with someone else, either Yeth or someone else. This would have allowed more of the story to play out in dialogue and break up the large sections of prose.
Having said that, part of the theme in this book is just how alone Sam is. And despite his isolation he is still fighting for the innocents. In fact, he is doing more visible good than the angels...which I think is also part of the message. Maybe it is not the station of our birth that should define us. Maybe it is our actions.
CONCLUSION
I spent many Friday nights with a baptist youth group studying the book of revelations. In all of those meetings no one really focused on what happened AFTER the rapture because everyone seemed to think they'd ascend to heaven. My baptists days are behind me. I haven't read the book of revelations for over 20 years. Still, I remembered enough to realize that Phillip W Simpson knows his stuff.
What he does with his knowledge is the fun part. Tribulation is a fun read and even stronger than Rapture. If you liked the first in the series, you will love this one.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Sam is our hero. He's half-demon, half-human ( a Camion). In book one of the series he learns his father is Satan. He was trained by a master swordsman. He wields special swords (katana and wakisashi) designed to kill demons. He's on a mission to protect the innocents left on earth after the rapture from the hordes of demons trying to drag them to hell.
The book starts full-throttle: a rescue mission to hell. From there the stakes are raised every chapter until, by the end, you are nearly as tired as Sam.
THE GOOD
One of the best things about this book is Sam's new companion, a hell hound named Yeth. He's a fierce fighter but, more important, a loyal friend (something Sam has been lacking). You also have non-stop action that is more global now. We move beyond the small corner of the United States and get a glimpse of how bad things are around the world.
The plot is consistent; no gaping holes in logic or believability. The motivations of each character are understandable. And no matter how strong Sam gets he always has limitations; he never becomes a superman. The book ends with a cliffhanger that makes it impossible to not buy the third book in the series. (due out later this year).
THE BAD
It's very hard for a single character to carry the whole book. Sam is alone most of the time..which means there is very little dialogue. This leads to long sections of description. I would have liked Sam to spend more time with someone else, either Yeth or someone else. This would have allowed more of the story to play out in dialogue and break up the large sections of prose.
Having said that, part of the theme in this book is just how alone Sam is. And despite his isolation he is still fighting for the innocents. In fact, he is doing more visible good than the angels...which I think is also part of the message. Maybe it is not the station of our birth that should define us. Maybe it is our actions.
CONCLUSION
I spent many Friday nights with a baptist youth group studying the book of revelations. In all of those meetings no one really focused on what happened AFTER the rapture because everyone seemed to think they'd ascend to heaven. My baptists days are behind me. I haven't read the book of revelations for over 20 years. Still, I remembered enough to realize that Phillip W Simpson knows his stuff.
What he does with his knowledge is the fun part. Tribulation is a fun read and even stronger than Rapture. If you liked the first in the series, you will love this one.
February 7, 2013
I absolutely adored the first book in this series, Rapture, when I read it in 2011. I was completely enraptured (see what I did there!) by the main character, Sam, the world-building and the way that the author used Christian eschatology as the plot without actually making it a Christian book.
In the second book of the series, Sam finds himself very much alone for the majority of the time. There are secondary characters that come and go at various parts, but this is really Sam's book - his struggles across the post-apocalyptic wasteland that America has become, wrestling with his own demons whilst fighting the real demons that threaten to drag the surviving humans to hell. As in the first book, Sam is a fantastic character - his singular purpose is to help and save as many humans as he possibly can, all the while dealing with the revelations of his lineage that were revealed in Rapture. He also maintains a vulnerability that made me really cheer him along - it's a risk to have a book solely about one character, but Tribulation is an example of how it can be done very well.
Familiar characters from the first book make appearances throughout Tribulation, in a variety of ways, and although they don't play a major part in the story, their collective reappearances tie together both books nicely.
Along with focusing on Sam's journey, Mr. Simpson also builds an incredibly bleak, frightening world as the surviving humans resort to any means necessary to survive in an incredibly harsh environment. There are various elements that are almost required in any post-apocalyptic tale, along with a whole host of characters and situations borne from the plot itself - demons and angels, hellish situations both on earth and in hell, as well as the battle scenes which flow beautifully.
As I've mentioned earlier, the actual plot is derived from the Christian eschatology which includes the Rapture and the Tribulation, and both books use this is a device to move through the story, which adds an interesting element that, although I am not religious, is commonly known enough to be familiar, with a whole bunch of extras that steer the story away from Christian preaching and to a fantastic young adult read that also holds appeal to adult audiences, particularly fans of post-apocalyptic and dystopian fiction.
Read more of my reviews at The Aussie Zombie
In the second book of the series, Sam finds himself very much alone for the majority of the time. There are secondary characters that come and go at various parts, but this is really Sam's book - his struggles across the post-apocalyptic wasteland that America has become, wrestling with his own demons whilst fighting the real demons that threaten to drag the surviving humans to hell. As in the first book, Sam is a fantastic character - his singular purpose is to help and save as many humans as he possibly can, all the while dealing with the revelations of his lineage that were revealed in Rapture. He also maintains a vulnerability that made me really cheer him along - it's a risk to have a book solely about one character, but Tribulation is an example of how it can be done very well.
Familiar characters from the first book make appearances throughout Tribulation, in a variety of ways, and although they don't play a major part in the story, their collective reappearances tie together both books nicely.
Along with focusing on Sam's journey, Mr. Simpson also builds an incredibly bleak, frightening world as the surviving humans resort to any means necessary to survive in an incredibly harsh environment. There are various elements that are almost required in any post-apocalyptic tale, along with a whole host of characters and situations borne from the plot itself - demons and angels, hellish situations both on earth and in hell, as well as the battle scenes which flow beautifully.
As I've mentioned earlier, the actual plot is derived from the Christian eschatology which includes the Rapture and the Tribulation, and both books use this is a device to move through the story, which adds an interesting element that, although I am not religious, is commonly known enough to be familiar, with a whole bunch of extras that steer the story away from Christian preaching and to a fantastic young adult read that also holds appeal to adult audiences, particularly fans of post-apocalyptic and dystopian fiction.
Read more of my reviews at The Aussie Zombie
January 20, 2013
Disclaimer: I have not read the first book or third book in this series.
First off, I would like to mention that I was lucky enough to get this in ebook form from the author. And that I was very lucky in that regard.
This book was pretty engrossing from the get-go. While it took me a little while to figure out the characters and how they fit into the plot, the pace was quick enough that I wasn't bored. The premise of the entire series is extremely interesting-- how does a half-human, half-demon fit into the world after the rapture? Not very well, it turns out. Heaven exploits his naturally good side and uses him to do their grunt work on Earth. Hell is hell-bent (haha) on turning him to the "dark side" through any kind of deceit or trickery. Heaven isn't above this either, it seems.
I felt really bad for Sam. Poor guy is only doing what he think is right, and yet he's being screwed over no matter what he does. He tries to help everyone he can. Which leads me to supporting characters, like Grace. While I admit I don't know the full story of what happened with Grace, her personality grated on me and I wished she would shut up most of the time. However, I really enjoyed the development between Aimi and Sam. The romance between them didn't seem forced like so many YA novels, which was refreshing. Oftentimes I find myself skimming the romantic sections of novels, but not in this case.
Of course, the imagery for the supernatural was awesome. While none of the descriptions of angels and demons were particularly different, it was still pretty darn cool seeing these descriptions actually brought to life in a way that made it seem more realistic. I liked that I was able to picture them as physical beings, rather than just ethereal beings.
I think I'm definitely going to check out the other two books in this trilogy. I think I owe it to myself as a reader.
Also, side note, this series reminds me a lot of Rot & Ruin... a story about a boy who uses a katana in a zombie-infested world. Many of the same dilemmas are there, as well as the followers of darkness. I loved that series, so I'm not surprised that given the basic similarities between that and this series that I would thoroughly enjoy this one as well.
First off, I would like to mention that I was lucky enough to get this in ebook form from the author. And that I was very lucky in that regard.
This book was pretty engrossing from the get-go. While it took me a little while to figure out the characters and how they fit into the plot, the pace was quick enough that I wasn't bored. The premise of the entire series is extremely interesting-- how does a half-human, half-demon fit into the world after the rapture? Not very well, it turns out. Heaven exploits his naturally good side and uses him to do their grunt work on Earth. Hell is hell-bent (haha) on turning him to the "dark side" through any kind of deceit or trickery. Heaven isn't above this either, it seems.
I felt really bad for Sam. Poor guy is only doing what he think is right, and yet he's being screwed over no matter what he does. He tries to help everyone he can. Which leads me to supporting characters, like Grace. While I admit I don't know the full story of what happened with Grace, her personality grated on me and I wished she would shut up most of the time. However, I really enjoyed the development between Aimi and Sam. The romance between them didn't seem forced like so many YA novels, which was refreshing. Oftentimes I find myself skimming the romantic sections of novels, but not in this case.
Of course, the imagery for the supernatural was awesome. While none of the descriptions of angels and demons were particularly different, it was still pretty darn cool seeing these descriptions actually brought to life in a way that made it seem more realistic. I liked that I was able to picture them as physical beings, rather than just ethereal beings.
I think I'm definitely going to check out the other two books in this trilogy. I think I owe it to myself as a reader.
Also, side note, this series reminds me a lot of Rot & Ruin... a story about a boy who uses a katana in a zombie-infested world. Many of the same dilemmas are there, as well as the followers of darkness. I loved that series, so I'm not surprised that given the basic similarities between that and this series that I would thoroughly enjoy this one as well.
July 1, 2013
I won a book!! I entered to win before I read book #1 in this series and discovered it's Christian fiction that I have a hard time swallowing, so at this point I'm really not expecting much, but ... I won a book!! The author mailed it to me himself, all the way from New Zealand! He must be a nice guy! I owe it to this guy to give it a fair review.
So. Right from the get-go, I have to say this. The main character's name is Samael. I guess that's an angel's name, I dunno - what I DO know is the author must not have quotes from Seinfeld embedded in his brain like I do, because I can't read "Samael" without thinking of that episode where George is breaking up with a woman (Patrice) and gives her the "it's not you it's me" spiel, but she insists on hearing "the truth" and George let's her have it:
*
This book is definitely better than the first one. (I'm still reading it, so this is a bit preliminary, but I think I've got a handle on things now.)
Mostly because there is no exhaustive detail about Sam's sword prowess (and the different types of swords, etc - I confess, I skipped over that stuff in the first book), the characters are more fully developed, and the story seems to be chugging along nicely.
Things I like about it:
* Yeth! Yes Sam has side-kick, a loyal caninesortofanimal!! I think Yeth is my favorite part of this book. I just wish his name didn't sound like someone saying "yes" with a lisp.
* Sam is unsure of himself, he doesn't feel like the Superhero. Sometimes he fails.
* The characters feel more real.
* The story is moving forward at a nice pace.
Things I didn't like about it:
* Jumps in time felt a bit choppy. (Example: Sam rescues Grace, she still hates him for leaving her in Hell as long as he did, and BOOM suddenly it's 3 years later and they've found some sort of cold middle ground - some more detail about that would have been interesting ... guilt, resentment, suffering, brooding ... it's YA Gold! Give it to me!)
* This story remains relentlessly ... well, male, for lack of a better word. There's a lot of detail about strategy and not as much about inner dialogues.
* Aimi - Sam's love interest - is still ridiculously perfect.
* Sam beats himself up too much about his impure thoughts. (I'm serious.)
And, the #1 thing that I don't like: This is a story about the Rapture - all the Believers are picked up in Jesus's caravan and the non-believers are left to suffer. But all these millions of non-believers left behind seem to just automatically accept at face value that there IS a God and there IS a Satan and the Bible is 100% Truth. Listen. As an atheist, I know that if one day all my religious friends disappeared, and the moon went red, and the world covered in ash, I STILL wouldn't assume that it's the Rapture. I'd need a lot more evidence than THAT. So this just doesn't feel REAL.
*
Finished! The ending was surprisingly satisfying. I didn't expect that, since so often the second book in a series is unsatisfying, serving as only a bridge between first and third. I like where this seems to be going.
So. Right from the get-go, I have to say this. The main character's name is Samael. I guess that's an angel's name, I dunno - what I DO know is the author must not have quotes from Seinfeld embedded in his brain like I do, because I can't read "Samael" without thinking of that episode where George is breaking up with a woman (Patrice) and gives her the "it's not you it's me" spiel, but she insists on hearing "the truth" and George let's her have it:
The truth. you want the truth? It is your earrings It is the chopsticks but it's so much more. You're pretentious. You call everyone by their full name You call my doorman, Sammy, "Samuel" but you didn't even say "Samuel" You went "Sam - U- EL" Papie-eh Mach-eh What is Papie-ay Mach-ay?
*
This book is definitely better than the first one. (I'm still reading it, so this is a bit preliminary, but I think I've got a handle on things now.)
Mostly because there is no exhaustive detail about Sam's sword prowess (and the different types of swords, etc - I confess, I skipped over that stuff in the first book), the characters are more fully developed, and the story seems to be chugging along nicely.
Things I like about it:
* Yeth! Yes Sam has side-kick, a loyal caninesortofanimal!! I think Yeth is my favorite part of this book. I just wish his name didn't sound like someone saying "yes" with a lisp.
* Sam is unsure of himself, he doesn't feel like the Superhero. Sometimes he fails.
* The characters feel more real.
* The story is moving forward at a nice pace.
Things I didn't like about it:
* Jumps in time felt a bit choppy. (Example: Sam rescues Grace, she still hates him for leaving her in Hell as long as he did, and BOOM suddenly it's 3 years later and they've found some sort of cold middle ground - some more detail about that would have been interesting ... guilt, resentment, suffering, brooding ... it's YA Gold! Give it to me!)
* This story remains relentlessly ... well, male, for lack of a better word. There's a lot of detail about strategy and not as much about inner dialogues.
* Aimi - Sam's love interest - is still ridiculously perfect.
* Sam beats himself up too much about his impure thoughts. (I'm serious.)
And, the #1 thing that I don't like: This is a story about the Rapture - all the Believers are picked up in Jesus's caravan and the non-believers are left to suffer. But all these millions of non-believers left behind seem to just automatically accept at face value that there IS a God and there IS a Satan and the Bible is 100% Truth. Listen. As an atheist, I know that if one day all my religious friends disappeared, and the moon went red, and the world covered in ash, I STILL wouldn't assume that it's the Rapture. I'd need a lot more evidence than THAT. So this just doesn't feel REAL.
*
Finished! The ending was surprisingly satisfying. I didn't expect that, since so often the second book in a series is unsatisfying, serving as only a bridge between first and third. I like where this seems to be going.
January 19, 2013
I received a free copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review. I do not know the author personally.
Tribulation is book two in the “Rapture Trilogy” by Phillip W Simpson. Having recently finished Rapture I was keen to discover what happened next for Sam, the main character. Simpson has again created a wonderful world in this book (which seems a rather ironic description given the Earth is desolate, virtually uninhabitable and over run with demons!) along with strong characters all built with incredible narrative and descriptions.
I was a huge fan of Sam in Rapture and am even more so now. His integrity and commitment to saving ‘innocents’ is unwavering – despite being judged harshly on his appearance regularly, experiencing loss of friends and being betrayed by many, Sam continues to stay true to his task and to himself. This is particularly impressive as he knows there is no place for him in Heaven, regardless of what he does during the Tribulation – being half demon means his only future is in the pits of Hell.
Sam is reunited with a number people in this book, some of which was unexpected for me – while this gave him some very well deserved happiness, it also brought further pain.
I really enjoyed the pace of Tribulation, and found myself wondering what would happen next. The biblical quotes at the beginning of each chapter got me thinking on more than one occasion – one in particular had me questioning whether a character that Sam held in high regard was to be trusted!
This book could be considered rather bleak, given the subject matter, but for me there was a constant thread of hope. Perhaps in part that was me hoping that Sam would be acknowledge as the good soul he is, but I also think this was driven by Sam’s character and unwavering commitment to protecting those that couldn’t protect themselves.
I thoroughly enjoyed Tribulation and will be watching for the release of Apocalypse – the third and final book in the Rapture Trilogy.
Tribulation is book two in the “Rapture Trilogy” by Phillip W Simpson. Having recently finished Rapture I was keen to discover what happened next for Sam, the main character. Simpson has again created a wonderful world in this book (which seems a rather ironic description given the Earth is desolate, virtually uninhabitable and over run with demons!) along with strong characters all built with incredible narrative and descriptions.
I was a huge fan of Sam in Rapture and am even more so now. His integrity and commitment to saving ‘innocents’ is unwavering – despite being judged harshly on his appearance regularly, experiencing loss of friends and being betrayed by many, Sam continues to stay true to his task and to himself. This is particularly impressive as he knows there is no place for him in Heaven, regardless of what he does during the Tribulation – being half demon means his only future is in the pits of Hell.
Sam is reunited with a number people in this book, some of which was unexpected for me – while this gave him some very well deserved happiness, it also brought further pain.
I really enjoyed the pace of Tribulation, and found myself wondering what would happen next. The biblical quotes at the beginning of each chapter got me thinking on more than one occasion – one in particular had me questioning whether a character that Sam held in high regard was to be trusted!
This book could be considered rather bleak, given the subject matter, but for me there was a constant thread of hope. Perhaps in part that was me hoping that Sam would be acknowledge as the good soul he is, but I also think this was driven by Sam’s character and unwavering commitment to protecting those that couldn’t protect themselves.
I thoroughly enjoyed Tribulation and will be watching for the release of Apocalypse – the third and final book in the Rapture Trilogy.
July 8, 2013
This is really 3 1/2 stars. While I still love Sam's character, this 2nd book didn't quite grab me as the first book did. I had to ponder why.
I feel so bad for Sam. I continue to root for him, and feel his confusion over the tug-of-war both sides (demons and angels) seem to be playing. For me, a human, I don't think I like the black-and-white view of the angels...they would seem to condemn someone because of the fault of their birth, not what's in their heart. I'm not a fan! However, I absolutely love that the angels aren't portrayed as perfect (from a human's empathetic point of view).
I also enjoyed seeing the Watcher come into play, and giving Sam a third option. How interesting! There are some interesting story lines being presented, which keeps the reader wondering exactly how book 3 is going to end.
So, that brings me back to my pondering. What didn't work for me? And if I'm going to be honest, it's the writing itself that slowed the story down. Oh, that and the fact that it's mostly prose with no dialogue. That in itself will slow a story down.
I felt, at times, that I was just watching Sam going through his daily life, doing this and dodging that, without really moving the story forward. The funny thing is, that's what I felt while reading it. However, when I did go back and sort of flip through, I found that that isn't necessarily true. The story starts out with action (Sam gets a new 'partner') and does keep going...but what happens is that there is so much internalization, and much of it repetitive, that I felt like the story wasn't going anywhere. I remember feeling that the story didn't actually start until 1/3 of the way into the book...but that's a feeling and not fact.
What also slowed the story down was the amount of telling, rather than showing or describing what Sam was feeling. With some good editing, those issues can be fixed and this story would be that much stronger.
Oh, and one more thing...great cliffhanger ending!
I plan on reading the 3rd and last installment of this series, and still recommend it as a read.
I feel so bad for Sam. I continue to root for him, and feel his confusion over the tug-of-war both sides (demons and angels) seem to be playing. For me, a human, I don't think I like the black-and-white view of the angels...they would seem to condemn someone because of the fault of their birth, not what's in their heart. I'm not a fan! However, I absolutely love that the angels aren't portrayed as perfect (from a human's empathetic point of view).
I also enjoyed seeing the Watcher come into play, and giving Sam a third option. How interesting! There are some interesting story lines being presented, which keeps the reader wondering exactly how book 3 is going to end.
So, that brings me back to my pondering. What didn't work for me? And if I'm going to be honest, it's the writing itself that slowed the story down. Oh, that and the fact that it's mostly prose with no dialogue. That in itself will slow a story down.
I felt, at times, that I was just watching Sam going through his daily life, doing this and dodging that, without really moving the story forward. The funny thing is, that's what I felt while reading it. However, when I did go back and sort of flip through, I found that that isn't necessarily true. The story starts out with action (Sam gets a new 'partner') and does keep going...but what happens is that there is so much internalization, and much of it repetitive, that I felt like the story wasn't going anywhere. I remember feeling that the story didn't actually start until 1/3 of the way into the book...but that's a feeling and not fact.
What also slowed the story down was the amount of telling, rather than showing or describing what Sam was feeling. With some good editing, those issues can be fixed and this story would be that much stronger.
Oh, and one more thing...great cliffhanger ending!
I plan on reading the 3rd and last installment of this series, and still recommend it as a read.
August 28, 2015
I got this ebook in exchange for my honest review. Thank you, moderators of "Never too Old for YA books."
I got my examination period going on these days, so I was really pressured on finishing this on time. (thanks for the extension in my deadline, also.)
This is the sequel of Rapture, a post-apocalytic book, which focuses on Sam, the son of satan and his attempts to gain his side with Aimi and Hikari , in Heaven.
I really like when books with a main theme on religion, using passages from the Holy Bible and many elements from christianity. I think, it's necessery, when writing a book with religion as a main factor, to clarify this on the book. Phillip Simpson does this succesfully.
What is more, the time in this book is flexible. The author don't give any significance in minor happenings and as a result the descriptions aren't wordy and full of details. I'm not into this kind of descriptions, so it was something else I really liked in Tribulation.
Phillip Simpson has created the perfect dystopian world!
We have plenty of action scenes but also we understand the true love between Aimi and Sam. Vocabulary and grammar were perfect. I never had a problem understanding the novel.
The author's narrative style, gives us the opportunity of see inside Sam's mind and feelings. He is a born fighter and he will never obey anyone but his heart.
However, I found myself really bored at times and skipping pages. I believe the third book will be a very pleasant surprise! I love Samyaza and I expect to get to know him more, in the next book!
Overall, if you're a fan of fantasy-dystopian novels and crave for action and demon flesh, this book is for you! I'm very happy I got the chance to read Sam's adventures again!
I got my examination period going on these days, so I was really pressured on finishing this on time. (thanks for the extension in my deadline, also.)
This is the sequel of Rapture, a post-apocalytic book, which focuses on Sam, the son of satan and his attempts to gain his side with Aimi and Hikari , in Heaven.
I really like when books with a main theme on religion, using passages from the Holy Bible and many elements from christianity. I think, it's necessery, when writing a book with religion as a main factor, to clarify this on the book. Phillip Simpson does this succesfully.
What is more, the time in this book is flexible. The author don't give any significance in minor happenings and as a result the descriptions aren't wordy and full of details. I'm not into this kind of descriptions, so it was something else I really liked in Tribulation.
Phillip Simpson has created the perfect dystopian world!
We have plenty of action scenes but also we understand the true love between Aimi and Sam. Vocabulary and grammar were perfect. I never had a problem understanding the novel.
The author's narrative style, gives us the opportunity of see inside Sam's mind and feelings. He is a born fighter and he will never obey anyone but his heart.
However, I found myself really bored at times and skipping pages. I believe the third book will be a very pleasant surprise! I love Samyaza and I expect to get to know him more, in the next book!
Overall, if you're a fan of fantasy-dystopian novels and crave for action and demon flesh, this book is for you! I'm very happy I got the chance to read Sam's adventures again!
May 12, 2013
This is the second book of the series. It takes place half way through the Tribulation where Sam is still fighting to protect the innocent people left on earth from Satan (his father) and the demons who hunt them. Oh and I should mention that same is half demon, half human....He struggles all the time with his role in all of this and what will become of him after the Apocalyse when Jesus comes to conquer Earth once again...will he stay on Earth after all the good he has done or will he go to hell where is father and brother will be.
I received this book from the author for my honest opinion and I have to say I really enjoyed this book. It took me a little bit to remember who the characters where and the story line as it's been almost a year since I read the first book but with that being said it didn't take me long to get caught up in the story again. I wanted to see how Sam deals with his father and brother as well as seeing if all he does will noticed.
Now I don't know much about the biblical aspect of the story however in my opinion I felt that there was enough information in their to guide the reader along. One individual that I found myself looking forward to seeing appear through the story was Yeth, a hellhound. Although one of the more fearsome demons in hell. I fell that he had an "inner puppy" to him and thought that even though he was helping his master, I believe that he too was doing good for mankind.
I received this book from the author for my honest opinion and I have to say I really enjoyed this book. It took me a little bit to remember who the characters where and the story line as it's been almost a year since I read the first book but with that being said it didn't take me long to get caught up in the story again. I wanted to see how Sam deals with his father and brother as well as seeing if all he does will noticed.
Now I don't know much about the biblical aspect of the story however in my opinion I felt that there was enough information in their to guide the reader along. One individual that I found myself looking forward to seeing appear through the story was Yeth, a hellhound. Although one of the more fearsome demons in hell. I fell that he had an "inner puppy" to him and thought that even though he was helping his master, I believe that he too was doing good for mankind.
January 31, 2013
First of all, thank you Mr. Simpson for providing me with a copy of this book for an honest review.
I really enjoyed this sequel to Rapture. While I still enjoyed Rapture, this book was much more fast paced and fill with action than the last one. It contained a lot of surprises and new elements that made it a lot more interesting.
I could absolutely identify with Sam, after everything that he has gone through, it is not surprising that he has a lack of faith in humanity, and even the angels.
I also felt like this one was a little less preachy while still involving the religious element.
Also, there are minor typos. Nothing too bad but repeated words "to the to the" and things like "they'd" instead of "they're", nothing simple editing couldn't weed out.
I would definitely recommend this series to my friends, in fact I already have :]
Thanks again!
I really enjoyed this sequel to Rapture. While I still enjoyed Rapture, this book was much more fast paced and fill with action than the last one. It contained a lot of surprises and new elements that made it a lot more interesting.
I could absolutely identify with Sam, after everything that he has gone through, it is not surprising that he has a lack of faith in humanity, and even the angels.
I also felt like this one was a little less preachy while still involving the religious element.
Also, there are minor typos. Nothing too bad but repeated words "to the to the" and things like "they'd" instead of "they're", nothing simple editing couldn't weed out.
I would definitely recommend this series to my friends, in fact I already have :]
Thanks again!
April 4, 2013
I liked this second book in the trilogy better than the first... can't really say why other than I am engrossed in the complication of Sam's perdiciment -
I really feel for Sam and the horrible position he is placed in. I care about him!!
and even though he is a half demon/half human and it is an apocalyptic setting ... I think most of us can relate to the dilemma of trying to find out where we fit in and finding our place in a complicated and sometimes unfair world.. I think that is the genius of this series.
I really get emotional about the fact that Sam is being so abused by both sides and his outlook is not looking so good... and yet he meets each day with only the desire to do the task that is in front of him and live in the moment.
I really feel for Sam and the horrible position he is placed in. I care about him!!
and even though he is a half demon/half human and it is an apocalyptic setting ... I think most of us can relate to the dilemma of trying to find out where we fit in and finding our place in a complicated and sometimes unfair world.. I think that is the genius of this series.
I really get emotional about the fact that Sam is being so abused by both sides and his outlook is not looking so good... and yet he meets each day with only the desire to do the task that is in front of him and live in the moment.
February 22, 2015
I won a signed, inscribed copy in one of my GR groups. Thank you, Phillip!
This subject matter was hard for me to read and courageous for the author to write about. I sincerely didn't know much about what would happen if The Rapture would really take place and the author did an amazing job at telling the story. The writing was very well done. As other reviewers noted, I agree that Sam needed a companion so that there would have been more dialogue, and the cliffhanger about made me want to throw my Nook across the room. Aimee, Yeth!! Ugh!!
But all in all, the book kept me enthralled and was very action packed! I will definitely be reading the next book to find out what happens next!
This subject matter was hard for me to read and courageous for the author to write about. I sincerely didn't know much about what would happen if The Rapture would really take place and the author did an amazing job at telling the story. The writing was very well done. As other reviewers noted, I agree that Sam needed a companion so that there would have been more dialogue, and the cliffhanger about made me want to throw my Nook across the room. Aimee, Yeth!! Ugh!!
But all in all, the book kept me enthralled and was very action packed! I will definitely be reading the next book to find out what happens next!
April 15, 2014
I really enjoyed this second outing with Sam!! So much so that I even missed my train station one day as I was so engrossed! As with the first book I didn't think that the religious connection would appeal to me, but its actually really quite interesting. Its also not a book that forces religion down your throat or tries to make you believe. Sam is just a teenager trying to do the right thing for people who usually don't deserve it! He's a better person than i am, thats for sure!
I'd certainly recommend this book, and am really looking forward to reading the final one in the trilogy!
I'd certainly recommend this book, and am really looking forward to reading the final one in the trilogy!
July 12, 2014
This story picks up where book 1 ends & Sam really has to fight for his survival.
A good read.
I felt even though there was a lot of action, it was really slow building especially as Sam travels across country.
Not quite sure how I felt about Samyaza taking Sam to Heaven. I thought he would do things that would benefit him. Don't see how this does. We're left at a sort of cliffhanger. Is the AntiChrist or the Prophet still alive? ... Will have to read the next book to find out!
A good read.
I felt even though there was a lot of action, it was really slow building especially as Sam travels across country.
Not quite sure how I felt about Samyaza taking Sam to Heaven. I thought he would do things that would benefit him. Don't see how this does. We're left at a sort of cliffhanger. Is the AntiChrist or the Prophet still alive? ... Will have to read the next book to find out!
January 5, 2013
Fans of the first book of the Rapture Trilogy by Phillip W. Simpson will not be disappointed in Tribulation, the second of the series. If anything Tribulation offers more excitement than the first book. I'm looking forward to the final instalment of this rip-roaring dystopian tale. Phillip has created a terrific character in Sam the half man, half demon hero of his trilogy.
February 9, 2013
I was kinda shocked by the ending him getting kicked out of heaven by michael I think/hope he tries to seek some type of revenge defiantly one of my new fav books can't wait to read your next one and future books! I hope you make a movie about it Sam just seems to be a bad ass I could see it being a hit depending on the director an actors!!
December 31, 2012
I didn't enjoy this one as much as the first. Still a good read but let me warn you that this one was full of typos. Not sure how a publisher can let that happen. I'm sure there are loads of people that would be willing to proof read a new novel.
July 4, 2013
This series gets better with every book. Looking forward but kind of sad to reading the final book. Don't really want this series to end! Def recommend reading this series it is a very original take on the Rapture and a great fast paced story.
March 11, 2013
I really like Sam,
But, I am getting a bit fed up with the way that everyone betrays him.
Looking forward to the end of the Trilogy to see if he gets to Heaven and Aimi
But, I am getting a bit fed up with the way that everyone betrays him.
Looking forward to the end of the Trilogy to see if he gets to Heaven and Aimi
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 25, 2013
I definately won't be bothering to read the next one ..... I'm baffled by all of the 4 star reviews for this book, I found it a bit of a drudge to get through.
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