What do you think?
Rate this book
Love and Survival #2
Aftermath: Into the Unknown
Robin dreamed of attending Yale and using her brain. Kory lived on the streets of Seattle and relied on his brawn. Without the asteroid, they never would have met.
For three years, Robin and her grandfather have been hiding, trusting no one. When a biker gang moves into town, Robin can no longer scrounge or tend her garden. Because her grandfather is dying, he urges her to join her extended family—800 miles away in a bunker city in South Dakota, but she doesn't want to leave.
Desperate, her grandfather disappears to force Robin into action and meets Kory, who’s with the bikers but disillusioned. Seeing a man who likes to read and could protect his granddaughter, he convinces Kory he can start over and accompany Robin on the long journey.
Unaware of her grandfather’s plan, Robin exposes her hiding place searching for him, and Kory saves her. On the run, they battle the elements and survivalists, learning to trust each other. If they can't reach the safety of Vita xTerra, they won't survive long enough to have a future together.
Prepare for another non-stop, post-apocalyptic road trip in Aftermath: Into the Unknown as they fight for love and survival.
For three years, Robin and her grandfather have been hiding, trusting no one. When a biker gang moves into town, Robin can no longer scrounge or tend her garden. Because her grandfather is dying, he urges her to join her extended family—800 miles away in a bunker city in South Dakota, but she doesn't want to leave.
Desperate, her grandfather disappears to force Robin into action and meets Kory, who’s with the bikers but disillusioned. Seeing a man who likes to read and could protect his granddaughter, he convinces Kory he can start over and accompany Robin on the long journey.
Unaware of her grandfather’s plan, Robin exposes her hiding place searching for him, and Kory saves her. On the run, they battle the elements and survivalists, learning to trust each other. If they can't reach the safety of Vita xTerra, they won't survive long enough to have a future together.
Prepare for another non-stop, post-apocalyptic road trip in Aftermath: Into the Unknown as they fight for love and survival.
337 pages, Paperback
First published December 19, 2024
94 people are currently reading
4624 people want to read
About the author
Lena Gibson
8 books253 followersAward-winning author Lena Gibson is a storyteller as an elementary school teacher and keeper of the family lore. As someone with autism, she often creates characters that reflect this experience.
A voracious reader from childhood onward, Lena seeks wonderful books in which to escape. She loves interesting characters and fast-paced, emotional narratives, leading her to write genre-defying stories in multiple categories. While her books are disaster romance, time slip, dystopian adventure, and sports romance, all are about love, resilience, and hope.
When Lena isn't writing, she reads, practices karate, and drinks a ton of tea. She resides in New Westminster, Canada, with her family and their fuzzy overlord, Ash, the fluffiest of gray cats.
https://linktr.ee/LenaGibsonAuthor
A voracious reader from childhood onward, Lena seeks wonderful books in which to escape. She loves interesting characters and fast-paced, emotional narratives, leading her to write genre-defying stories in multiple categories. While her books are disaster romance, time slip, dystopian adventure, and sports romance, all are about love, resilience, and hope.
When Lena isn't writing, she reads, practices karate, and drinks a ton of tea. She resides in New Westminster, Canada, with her family and their fuzzy overlord, Ash, the fluffiest of gray cats.
https://linktr.ee/LenaGibsonAuthor
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
December 18, 2024
This was sweet and gripping and cozy and anxiety inducing.
The second book in the Love and Survival series did not disappoint. It was as thrilling and fast paced as the first but with a cozier relationship feel. This book takes place a few years after the apocalypse and features two new characters. It can be read as a stand alone, but characters and settings from the previous book do make appearances. I do recommend reading the first book too though because it was extremely good but going into this one without will be perfectly fine.
This book was more of a traditional post apocalyptic romance, with the horrors of humanity juxtaposed against the resilience of love. Both characters were very relatable, likeable and strong.
There are elements of cannibalism, violence, sexual assault and rape (all happened off page), misogyny, pregnancy, forced pregnancy and gun violence. They didn’t make me uncomfortable but sensitive readers should go in aware.
Thanks to Lena Gibson for reaching out and offering me the arc, my opinions are my own.
The second book is coming soon! Yay! I also have the arc. If you like Claire Kent but want less schmex try the first book in this series.
The second book in the Love and Survival series did not disappoint. It was as thrilling and fast paced as the first but with a cozier relationship feel. This book takes place a few years after the apocalypse and features two new characters. It can be read as a stand alone, but characters and settings from the previous book do make appearances. I do recommend reading the first book too though because it was extremely good but going into this one without will be perfectly fine.
This book was more of a traditional post apocalyptic romance, with the horrors of humanity juxtaposed against the resilience of love. Both characters were very relatable, likeable and strong.
There are elements of cannibalism, violence, sexual assault and rape (all happened off page), misogyny, pregnancy, forced pregnancy and gun violence. They didn’t make me uncomfortable but sensitive readers should go in aware.
Thanks to Lena Gibson for reaching out and offering me the arc, my opinions are my own.
The second book is coming soon! Yay! I also have the arc. If you like Claire Kent but want less schmex try the first book in this series.
May 6, 2025
If you love dystopian then you would love this. I’m not sure if I liked this book or the first one better. I definitely feel like there is a hint for the story to be continued which I would love. My only complaint is the way the story played out with Robin,(FMC) and her sister. It felt a little rushed and not what I expected. I will absolutely be reading more from this author!
October 31, 2024
This was excellent! I really gripping, well written apocalyptic adventure. It has me in its grip from the first paragraph & wow, what a ride! Brilliant! I do recommend this & all other books I have read by this author!
April 22, 2025
I have currently not read the first in the series, but I still really enjoyed this one.
The premise of this story grabbed me and I couldn't wait. Kory is a bit lost and doesn't know what he wants in this new world. Until he meets Robin. Her grandfather strikes up an agreement with him that he is to take her to the walled city. In the beginning they are both not trusting of each other but the reader gets to see them slowly build a relationship. I just adored them. I was rooting for them and believed their love. I liked seeing them survive on the way to the walled city. There were several parts of the book that creeped me out and made me nervous.
Overall, I really loved them and I look forward to reading more from Lena Gibson.
The premise of this story grabbed me and I couldn't wait. Kory is a bit lost and doesn't know what he wants in this new world. Until he meets Robin. Her grandfather strikes up an agreement with him that he is to take her to the walled city. In the beginning they are both not trusting of each other but the reader gets to see them slowly build a relationship. I just adored them. I was rooting for them and believed their love. I liked seeing them survive on the way to the walled city. There were several parts of the book that creeped me out and made me nervous.
Overall, I really loved them and I look forward to reading more from Lena Gibson.
December 19, 2024
Really enjoyed this.
Apocalypse without the zombies.
Dealing with daily struggles, food shelter etc.
Each book seems to be a couple per book though there is the end destination of the bunker as a common thread and as there are enemy factions in the areas surrounding the bunker then the enemy thread develops.
HEA in form of HFN, no doubt if the series continues we will see more of each couple as secondary background characters.
Apocalypse without the zombies.
Dealing with daily struggles, food shelter etc.
Each book seems to be a couple per book though there is the end destination of the bunker as a common thread and as there are enemy factions in the areas surrounding the bunker then the enemy thread develops.
HEA in form of HFN, no doubt if the series continues we will see more of each couple as secondary background characters.
January 15, 2025
OUTSTANDING!!!!! 10 STARS
WOWWWWWW THIS DUOLOGY IS ABSOLUTELY BRILLIANT! I COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN. IT HAD EVERYTHING THAT I LOVE IN AN AMAZING STORY. THE PLOT WAS INTERESTING, INVOLVED AND WELL ORGANIZED. THE CHARACTERS FELT AS IF THEY WERE REAL "PEOPLE". I HOPE THIS SERIES DOES NOT END HERE. LENA GIBSON, THANK YOU. YOU ARE BRILLIANT. LOVE ALL YOUR BOOKS. THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU👏
WOWWWWWW THIS DUOLOGY IS ABSOLUTELY BRILLIANT! I COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN. IT HAD EVERYTHING THAT I LOVE IN AN AMAZING STORY. THE PLOT WAS INTERESTING, INVOLVED AND WELL ORGANIZED. THE CHARACTERS FELT AS IF THEY WERE REAL "PEOPLE". I HOPE THIS SERIES DOES NOT END HERE. LENA GIBSON, THANK YOU. YOU ARE BRILLIANT. LOVE ALL YOUR BOOKS. THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU👏
October 28, 2024
As someone who has written a second-in-series novel, I can say from experience it can be a challenge. They have to move the protagonist from point A to point B while providing enough action and character growth to keep things interesting. To do it while creating a book that stands on its own and doesn’t require having read its predecessor is superb writing.
Three years after an asteroid changed the course of human history, Robin and her grandfather are sheltered in a bunker beneath a mall parking garage in Boise when their haven is invaded by a biker gang. Clay is dying of lung cancer, but Robin refuses to leave him to travel the 800 miles to the walled commune of Vita xTerra.
Enter Kory. Formerly homeless, he’s traveling with the bikers for the safety in numbers and steady meals. He’s facing a decision—join the gang formally or set off on his own. He prefers the latter, and his discovery there’s a young woman living in Boise likely to become prey ends up making the decision for him when her grandfather asks him to help her reach Vita xTerra.
Most current post-apocalyptic novels are dark and depressing. The protagonist(s) meet nothing but danger and death as they travel the devastated landscape. Ms. Gibson chooses something closer to reality, and her world is equally populated with evildoers and the sort of good folk we humans are inclined to be as a rule when disaster strikes.
“Aftermath: Into the Unknown” by Lena Gibson is for people like me, who get tired of gloom and doom and nihilistic views of what life would be like if the world as we know it ended. Robin and Kory are survivors, and the progression as they learn to trust each other—and more—makes it impossible not to admire them and cheer them on. These are real people who embrace their pain and use it to grow (some might even say grow in spite of it), and for that alone I would recommend this novel. Fortunately, that’s just part of what kept me reading well into the wee hours.
There are serious issues left unresolved at the end of “Aftermath: Into the Unknown,” the second book in the Love and Survival series and I look forward to learning how they’ll be tended to. Meantime, I highly recommend grabbing a copy of this installment as soon as possible.
Three years after an asteroid changed the course of human history, Robin and her grandfather are sheltered in a bunker beneath a mall parking garage in Boise when their haven is invaded by a biker gang. Clay is dying of lung cancer, but Robin refuses to leave him to travel the 800 miles to the walled commune of Vita xTerra.
Enter Kory. Formerly homeless, he’s traveling with the bikers for the safety in numbers and steady meals. He’s facing a decision—join the gang formally or set off on his own. He prefers the latter, and his discovery there’s a young woman living in Boise likely to become prey ends up making the decision for him when her grandfather asks him to help her reach Vita xTerra.
Most current post-apocalyptic novels are dark and depressing. The protagonist(s) meet nothing but danger and death as they travel the devastated landscape. Ms. Gibson chooses something closer to reality, and her world is equally populated with evildoers and the sort of good folk we humans are inclined to be as a rule when disaster strikes.
“Aftermath: Into the Unknown” by Lena Gibson is for people like me, who get tired of gloom and doom and nihilistic views of what life would be like if the world as we know it ended. Robin and Kory are survivors, and the progression as they learn to trust each other—and more—makes it impossible not to admire them and cheer them on. These are real people who embrace their pain and use it to grow (some might even say grow in spite of it), and for that alone I would recommend this novel. Fortunately, that’s just part of what kept me reading well into the wee hours.
There are serious issues left unresolved at the end of “Aftermath: Into the Unknown,” the second book in the Love and Survival series and I look forward to learning how they’ll be tended to. Meantime, I highly recommend grabbing a copy of this installment as soon as possible.
August 19, 2024
An asteroid strike has devastated earth, leaving millions scrambling to survive. Robin has managed to survive for three years, but her hideout is no longer safe and she needs to journey eight hundred miles on foot to find sanctuary. In a world where trust is more scarce than food, she must decide whether to journey alone or join forces with a stranger. Aftermath is a powerful story of survival, perseverance and love as a young couple battles enemies and the elements to find a new life. Gibson delivers an instant classic in the post-apocalyptic genre.
April 19, 2025
When I picked up Aftermath: Into the Unknown by Lena Gibson, I was drawn into Robin's story almost instantly. It’s refreshing to see a post-apocalyptic novel where resilience and hope take center stage instead of pure despair. Robin’s bond with her grandfather and her determination to survive are at the heart of the story, making her incredibly relatable and easy to root for. When her quiet existence is disrupted by a biker gang and her grandfather’s health begins to fail, Robin sets out on a harrowing journey to find sanctuary. Along the way, she meets Kory, a member of the gang who is disillusioned and searching for redemption. Together, they navigate dangers that range from violent survivalists to the merciless elements, building trust and a heartfelt connection as they fight for their future.
What I loved most about this book is the balance between romance, action, and moments of levity. While there are dark and intense moments, the story never loses sight of its humanity. Robin and Kory’s dynamic adds warmth and tenderness to the gritty survival narrative, creating a powerful sense of hope even when the odds seem stacked against them. The pacing kept me on edge, especially during the action-packed conclusion, which sets the stage perfectly for the next installment in the series. Lena Gibson has crafted an emotional, thrilling journey that stands out in the post-apocalyptic genre, and I highly recommend it for anyone who enjoys stories of resilience, love, and triumph in the face of adversity.
Five out of five stars.
I received this book for free from the author, Lena Gibson, in exchange for an honest review.
What I loved most about this book is the balance between romance, action, and moments of levity. While there are dark and intense moments, the story never loses sight of its humanity. Robin and Kory’s dynamic adds warmth and tenderness to the gritty survival narrative, creating a powerful sense of hope even when the odds seem stacked against them. The pacing kept me on edge, especially during the action-packed conclusion, which sets the stage perfectly for the next installment in the series. Lena Gibson has crafted an emotional, thrilling journey that stands out in the post-apocalyptic genre, and I highly recommend it for anyone who enjoys stories of resilience, love, and triumph in the face of adversity.
Five out of five stars.
I received this book for free from the author, Lena Gibson, in exchange for an honest review.
December 31, 2025
This second story is a clear step up from the first book in the series.
The post-apocalyptic world feels more lived-in here, but what truly makes the difference is the time given to the characters.
This story breathes more.
It lingers.
And because of that, the emotional connection finally clicks.
Robin is a protagonist I could actually relate to.
Thoughtful, capable, cautious in a way that feels earned, not timid.
Her bond with her grandfather adds quiet weight to the story and gives her choices real emotional stakes.
And then there’s Kory.
Easily the highlight of the book.
He’s not just muscle or a convenient protector.
He is layered, disillusioned, curious, and surprisingly a man who reads.
His evolution throughout the journey feels natural and intentional.
You see him becoming someone, not because love magically fixes him, but because he’s finally allowed to choose a different path.
The romance unfolds more gradually, with trust built through shared danger, long roads, and survival rather than instant chemistry.
The road trip element works beautifully here, giving space for both internal and external growth.
While the story still follows familiar post-apocalyptic beats, it feels more refined, more emotionally grounded, and more satisfying overall.
For me, this one delivered and left me genuinely invested.
The post-apocalyptic world feels more lived-in here, but what truly makes the difference is the time given to the characters.
This story breathes more.
It lingers.
And because of that, the emotional connection finally clicks.
Robin is a protagonist I could actually relate to.
Thoughtful, capable, cautious in a way that feels earned, not timid.
Her bond with her grandfather adds quiet weight to the story and gives her choices real emotional stakes.
And then there’s Kory.
Easily the highlight of the book.
He’s not just muscle or a convenient protector.
He is layered, disillusioned, curious, and surprisingly a man who reads.
His evolution throughout the journey feels natural and intentional.
You see him becoming someone, not because love magically fixes him, but because he’s finally allowed to choose a different path.
The romance unfolds more gradually, with trust built through shared danger, long roads, and survival rather than instant chemistry.
The road trip element works beautifully here, giving space for both internal and external growth.
While the story still follows familiar post-apocalyptic beats, it feels more refined, more emotionally grounded, and more satisfying overall.
For me, this one delivered and left me genuinely invested.
October 3, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 5 stars
Heat rating: 🌶️🌶️ / 5 peppers
I couldn't put this book down, I was up until 1AM finishing the last few chapters. What a whirlwind, especially that last 40ish% I think I might have been holding my breath for a bit there. This series has some phenomenal world building going on and I am loving it. You really get a nice insight into how quickly the world can change. The main characters had an 800 mile journey where they had not only the winter weather to deal with but the hostile people they would encounter. The survival of the fittest vibes are strong. It is not an easy environment to live in and from that we see a large shift in personalities of characters from who they were before versus who they are after the impact of the asteroid. Both Robin and Kory were likable characters who had been through a lot in order to survive. Their relationship had a slow build that progressed nicely with the pace of the story. I would describe it as a strangers to friends to lovers.
Was I a tiny bit sad that this book didn't take place before/at asteroid impact? Yes, but I still absolutely loved the story. I think it still managed to be just thrilling to read as the first book. Am I super excited to read more in the series if additional books are written? You bet your ass I am, I will be patiently awaiting any future releases. I feel another book is lurking around the corner with the unfinished business between xTerra and the Slains, but maybe that is just wishful thinking.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants action, survival, suspense, an end of the world settings, and romance with a bit of spice. Readers who enjoy authors like Kate L. Mary, Claire Kent, and M. Merin (to name a few) will enjoy this series, so be sure to add them to your TBR.
Heat rating: 🌶️🌶️ / 5 peppers
I couldn't put this book down, I was up until 1AM finishing the last few chapters. What a whirlwind, especially that last 40ish% I think I might have been holding my breath for a bit there. This series has some phenomenal world building going on and I am loving it. You really get a nice insight into how quickly the world can change. The main characters had an 800 mile journey where they had not only the winter weather to deal with but the hostile people they would encounter. The survival of the fittest vibes are strong. It is not an easy environment to live in and from that we see a large shift in personalities of characters from who they were before versus who they are after the impact of the asteroid. Both Robin and Kory were likable characters who had been through a lot in order to survive. Their relationship had a slow build that progressed nicely with the pace of the story. I would describe it as a strangers to friends to lovers.
Was I a tiny bit sad that this book didn't take place before/at asteroid impact? Yes, but I still absolutely loved the story. I think it still managed to be just thrilling to read as the first book. Am I super excited to read more in the series if additional books are written? You bet your ass I am, I will be patiently awaiting any future releases. I feel another book is lurking around the corner with the unfinished business between xTerra and the Slains, but maybe that is just wishful thinking.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants action, survival, suspense, an end of the world settings, and romance with a bit of spice. Readers who enjoy authors like Kate L. Mary, Claire Kent, and M. Merin (to name a few) will enjoy this series, so be sure to add them to your TBR.
December 3, 2024
Aftermath: Into the Unknown is a fast-paced, post-apocalyptic road trip that blends survival, romance, and grit in a world reshaped by catastrophe. Though it’s set in the same world as Lena Gibson’s earlier book, this novel stands alone—but I’ll admit, I didn’t realize until two-thirds of the way through that I’d actually read the first one! That might say more about me than the book itself, but it did leave me feeling a little disoriented at the start until I caught up with the story’s unique setting and stakes.
The novel excels in its attention to detail, particularly when it comes to the decaying world. From scavenged supplies to the challenges of finding what’s still safe to use, the survival elements felt authentic and well-researched. This realism, paired with a strong pace, kept me turning pages.
Robin and Kory are compelling leads, and their journey—both physical and emotional—is fraught with danger and growth. While I skimmed some of the spicier moments, they’re relatively brief and make sense for the plot and character development. The supporting cast adds depth to the world, with side characters ranging from cautious survivalists to outright threats, reflecting a believable spectrum of human responses to disaster.
If you enjoy post-apocalyptic stories with a mix of action, romance, and survival, this is worth picking up. I’d definitely read more in the Aftermath series if the author continues it—there’s so much potential to explore in this world.
If you liked this book, you might enjoy:
Book: The Road by Cormac McCarthy – For its raw, emotional survival journey.
TV Show: The Last of Us – A gripping tale of survival, trust, and connection in a dangerous world.
I received a free copy and am giving an honest review.
The novel excels in its attention to detail, particularly when it comes to the decaying world. From scavenged supplies to the challenges of finding what’s still safe to use, the survival elements felt authentic and well-researched. This realism, paired with a strong pace, kept me turning pages.
Robin and Kory are compelling leads, and their journey—both physical and emotional—is fraught with danger and growth. While I skimmed some of the spicier moments, they’re relatively brief and make sense for the plot and character development. The supporting cast adds depth to the world, with side characters ranging from cautious survivalists to outright threats, reflecting a believable spectrum of human responses to disaster.
If you enjoy post-apocalyptic stories with a mix of action, romance, and survival, this is worth picking up. I’d definitely read more in the Aftermath series if the author continues it—there’s so much potential to explore in this world.
If you liked this book, you might enjoy:
Book: The Road by Cormac McCarthy – For its raw, emotional survival journey.
TV Show: The Last of Us – A gripping tale of survival, trust, and connection in a dangerous world.
I received a free copy and am giving an honest review.
October 9, 2024
Lena Gibson’s *Aftermath: Into the Unknown* is the captivating follow-up to The Edge of Life, plunging readers deeper into a dystopian landscape where love and survival intertwine amid chaos. Gibson excels at crafting a narrative pulsating with heart-pounding tension that keeps readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish.
The rich character development of this novel shines through, especially in the beautifully portrayed relationship between the protagonists Robin and Kory, highlighting a hopeful vulnerability in the face of adversity. Their connection feels genuine and profound, marked by moments of true intimacy that breathe life into an otherwise bleak world. Gibson masterfully illustrates how their care for one another becomes a source of strength, propelling them forward as they navigate the harrowing realities of their environment.
What stands out most in *Aftermath* is how Gibson balances the dark elements of her setting with themes of love and resilience. The characters’ struggles are palpable, yet their bond offers a glimmer of hope, reminding us of the power of human connection even in the darkest times. I highly recommended for those seeking a story that combines the thrill of survival with the warmth of genuine connection.
The rich character development of this novel shines through, especially in the beautifully portrayed relationship between the protagonists Robin and Kory, highlighting a hopeful vulnerability in the face of adversity. Their connection feels genuine and profound, marked by moments of true intimacy that breathe life into an otherwise bleak world. Gibson masterfully illustrates how their care for one another becomes a source of strength, propelling them forward as they navigate the harrowing realities of their environment.
What stands out most in *Aftermath* is how Gibson balances the dark elements of her setting with themes of love and resilience. The characters’ struggles are palpable, yet their bond offers a glimmer of hope, reminding us of the power of human connection even in the darkest times. I highly recommended for those seeking a story that combines the thrill of survival with the warmth of genuine connection.
December 12, 2024
Although a second book in a series this book can be read as a standalone, indeed I did not feel that the story was disjointed and I have not read the first installment (but I shall as this book was so good).
The book starts off with Robyn living with her grandfather hidden in a vast mall (from reading this book I understand the first book is Robyn reaching her grandfather when the world as we know it is no longer - Robyn was about to go to Uni at Yale). The grandfather knows he is not going to live much longer and that the situation in the mall is precarious when a bunch of bikers arrive. He disappears entrusting is granddaughter to one of the bikers: Kory - as he sees a sense of honor in him.
This is Robyn and Kory's love story in a world where cannibalism, rape, murder, and enslavement is rife………… the love story happens as they try and reach a safe haven. An excellent story I truly recommend it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The book starts off with Robyn living with her grandfather hidden in a vast mall (from reading this book I understand the first book is Robyn reaching her grandfather when the world as we know it is no longer - Robyn was about to go to Uni at Yale). The grandfather knows he is not going to live much longer and that the situation in the mall is precarious when a bunch of bikers arrive. He disappears entrusting is granddaughter to one of the bikers: Kory - as he sees a sense of honor in him.
This is Robyn and Kory's love story in a world where cannibalism, rape, murder, and enslavement is rife………… the love story happens as they try and reach a safe haven. An excellent story I truly recommend it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 23, 2024
Aftermath: Into the Unknown is a post-apocalyptic romance set against the catastrophic consequences of an asteroid striking the earth. Four years later, Robin, a fiercely independent woman trying to escape past trauma, and Kory, an equally independent man with secrets in his own past, form an unlikely duo trying to journey from Boise, Idaho, to a walled city in South Dakota. With no modern conveniences to aid them, they set out on an 800-mile journey. Romance blooms between the two, but they’ll need more than love to conquer the threats of starvation, sickness, the elements, and the depravity of a human race pushed to the brink they’ll face every step of the way.
Lena Gibson’s latest novel is a fast-paced, tension-filled read that will keep you rooting for Robin and Kory all the way to the end. The meticulous plotting, vivid descriptions, and well-drawn characters make Aftermath: Into the Unknown a must-read adventure! Don’t miss this one!
Lena Gibson’s latest novel is a fast-paced, tension-filled read that will keep you rooting for Robin and Kory all the way to the end. The meticulous plotting, vivid descriptions, and well-drawn characters make Aftermath: Into the Unknown a must-read adventure! Don’t miss this one!
October 15, 2024
Robin and Kory are two young adults in a post-apocalyptic world. While most of society and its infrastructure are crumbling, these two must find a way to travel eight hundred miles on foot in the hopes of finding a safe haven. Aftermath: Into the Unknown is a unique blend of romance and non-stop action, evoking the reader’s most basic instincts of love, lust, and survival.
Author Lena Gibson has constructed a harsh and unpredictable world. A stray asteroid decimated the physical Earth four years ago, but this kind of devastation cannot touch what is inside of people. The need for companionship and the ability to find love in the most trying of circumstances resonates even after finishing the last sentence.
Aftermath shows us how anyone is capable of anything given certain circumstances and leaves the reader pondering just how far they might go to survive. Where would you set your boundaries in a lawless world?
Author Lena Gibson has constructed a harsh and unpredictable world. A stray asteroid decimated the physical Earth four years ago, but this kind of devastation cannot touch what is inside of people. The need for companionship and the ability to find love in the most trying of circumstances resonates even after finishing the last sentence.
Aftermath shows us how anyone is capable of anything given certain circumstances and leaves the reader pondering just how far they might go to survive. Where would you set your boundaries in a lawless world?
December 16, 2024
ARC Review ✨️
☆Robin & Kory♡
Robin has been surviving the post-apocalyptic world for 3 years now. Her and her grandfather have been hiding out, but when a biker gang arrives, plans change. Her grandfather urges her to move to South Carolina to stay with family since he's dying. She doesn't want to leave his side, so in an attempt to force her to go, he dissappears. Unaware that her grandfather set this plan up, Robin gives up her hiding spot. That's when Kory swoops in and saves her. Now, they're both on the run and have to make it to safety.
The author completely blew my mind with this story. I genuinely love it so dang much. It instantly pulled it and was such a gripping story to dive into. Seeing how they have to struggle in the post-apocalyptic world is so wild, fascinating, and honestly emotional. I loved these two together, though, and Robin was such a strong female lead!
Thanks to the author and Booksirens for the ARC!
☆Robin & Kory♡
Robin has been surviving the post-apocalyptic world for 3 years now. Her and her grandfather have been hiding out, but when a biker gang arrives, plans change. Her grandfather urges her to move to South Carolina to stay with family since he's dying. She doesn't want to leave his side, so in an attempt to force her to go, he dissappears. Unaware that her grandfather set this plan up, Robin gives up her hiding spot. That's when Kory swoops in and saves her. Now, they're both on the run and have to make it to safety.
The author completely blew my mind with this story. I genuinely love it so dang much. It instantly pulled it and was such a gripping story to dive into. Seeing how they have to struggle in the post-apocalyptic world is so wild, fascinating, and honestly emotional. I loved these two together, though, and Robin was such a strong female lead!
Thanks to the author and Booksirens for the ARC!
August 19, 2024
When an asteroid wipes out most of humanity, Robin considers herself fortunate to have her grandfather and a roof over her head—even though she’s lost her family, a Yale scholarship, and her innocence. But that security turns out to be temporary. With her grandfather gone, and a motorcycle gang on her tail, Robin’s only hope lies in the enigmatic Kory, a giant of a man whose past is marked by shadows. Can she trust him to guide her to Terra-X, the walled sanctuary in South Dakota?
Aftermath: Love and Survival 2 adds to Gibson’s growing portfolio of dystopian best-sellers, proving—again—that romance is so much more than long walks on the beach…and life is something earned, not taken for granted.
Aftermath: Love and Survival 2 adds to Gibson’s growing portfolio of dystopian best-sellers, proving—again—that romance is so much more than long walks on the beach…and life is something earned, not taken for granted.
September 30, 2024
I just finished reading an ARC of Lena Gibson’s Aftermath: Into the Unknown. It’s a brilliant sequel to Edge of Life that is both exciting and complete enough to stand alone.
The variety of ominous characters and settings makes for a tense and nerve wracking read. Choose a good time to start reading this one because that’s all you will be doing for several hours. Dangerous situations, despicable and truly evil villains as well as moving and tender moments when Robin and Kory are getting to know each other make it all worthwhile. I loved the book and loved finding out what happened to all of my favorite Edge of Life characters. Very satisfying. Highly recommended.
January 28, 2025
Lena Gibson seems to have created a new genera, disaster romance. Aftermath: Into the Unknown is the second installment of the Love and Survival series. The premise is a planet-killing asteroid hit Earth and decimates, well, everything. Robin and her grandfather are trying to survive another winter in Boise when they meet Kory, a super sexy biker. Things happen and Robin and Kory make a run for safety. Like everything else I've read by Lena Gibson, this book is fantastic. The plot is fascinating. The characters are written as real people, with real feelings and problems. This book kept me up, late into the night because I had to find out what happens. There's action, adventure, horror and some really hot romance. I'm so looking forward to the next installment!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 11, 2025
Aftermath, Book 2 of the Love and Survival series, is a fast-paced read with unforgettable characters. Excellent world building and great character development drew me in to the realistically portrayed challenges and constant struggles to survive in the dystopian aftermath of an asteroid strike. Robin and Kory find enduring love amid the chaos as they flee Boise Idaho, hoping to reach Xterra, a secure haven in South Dakota. I found it hard to stop reading as the couple face every kind of hardship and danger on their journey.
October 25, 2024
Aftermath is a pulsing romance-cum-suspense novel that will have you cheering for its heroine Robin as she perseveres to overcome post-apocalyptic obstacles and scavenging rogues—all while awakening as a woman and falling in love with an unlikely hero who risks all to reunite her with surviving family. If you read Edge of Life, you shouldn't wait to get your hands on Aftermath.
Jeffrey Ulin, Author The Lord’s Tusks and Provenance of Ashes
Jeffrey Ulin, Author The Lord’s Tusks and Provenance of Ashes
January 12, 2025
great read
Wow sure kept my attention and didn’t want to stop reading. Both Robin and Kory characters are well developed. The world development is well written. Lots of danger to keep you hooked on the story. Has all my wants: great story, plenty mystery, some laughter and romance. That sister and her husband are pure evil! Lots of questions answered but still now we have more! Wings and Slains in the neighborhood! So I hope it means more book(s) to come?
Wow sure kept my attention and didn’t want to stop reading. Both Robin and Kory characters are well developed. The world development is well written. Lots of danger to keep you hooked on the story. Has all my wants: great story, plenty mystery, some laughter and romance. That sister and her husband are pure evil! Lots of questions answered but still now we have more! Wings and Slains in the neighborhood! So I hope it means more book(s) to come?
December 2, 2024
This was my first book by Lena Gibson and I went into it without knowing much about the series. I must say that I was quite pleasantly surprised. This was a perfect balance of post-apocalyptic adventure and contemporary romance. The premise of the story was believable, which is always very important to me. But the pacing and the main character development was done with finesse. I'm planning to read the first one in the series. Highly recommended. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 15, 2024
I liked how the characters developed and learned to trust each other. The detailed world-building made it feel real. This is a survival story with action and heart, definitely worth checking out.
Finally finished reading this! It felt refreshing to read something different, and I'd love to read it again from time to time. ❤️
Finally finished reading this! It felt refreshing to read something different, and I'd love to read it again from time to time. ❤️
May 4, 2025
4/5 STARS! This is a great end of the world/apocalypse read. Very well written and intense drama & action. I enjoyed seeing Kory and Robin grow together & their survival felt very realistic & had you on edge for them. The audiobook is definitely a good choice & I flew through it wanting to know what would happen next! Definitely recommend.
Thank you to the author for a free audiobook copy.
Thank you to the author for a free audiobook copy.
May 27, 2025
Aftermath: Into the Unknown is a harrowing, yet heartwarming tale of two young strangers working together to survive against all odds in post-apocalyptic times. Lena Gibson’s intricate writing pulls readers in, making people everywhere wonder the lengths they would go to trust someone in such an unpredictable world.
October 7, 2025
Great twist on this genre!
Please tell me there is another book coming in this series.
This is one of the best apocalypse books I have read so far. It's so different and original from most. After reading so many of this genre they all seem to follow a similar pattern that gets boring after a while. This book was so refreshing. 😊
Please tell me there is another book coming in this series.
This is one of the best apocalypse books I have read so far. It's so different and original from most. After reading so many of this genre they all seem to follow a similar pattern that gets boring after a while. This book was so refreshing. 😊
November 20, 2025
This 2nd installment in Love and Survival was almost better than the first! I love how each book focuses on a different couple. There was so many times that I almost threw my ereader across the room because of the Slaine brothers. Ugh....If you love apocalyse books and romance...You have to read this series!
December 22, 2024
Great book
I loved both of the books in this series ,lots of adventure, suspense, a great story I enjoyed both stories ,these are the first two books I've read from Lena Gibson, I know in the future I will be reading all her books
I loved both of the books in this series ,lots of adventure, suspense, a great story I enjoyed both stories ,these are the first two books I've read from Lena Gibson, I know in the future I will be reading all her books
Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews