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Kindled #8
Beacon
It might have taken ten years for Mack to fall apart, but now he has disappeared.
He's been the heart of our community since Impact, keeping all of us alive in a hostile, unstable world. Now he's been hurt after fighting one too many battles. He's retreated into a massive, dangerous forest to live on his own, and he won't come out.
Mack and I had an on-and-off relationship for years, but it's always been no strings attached. After a toxic marriage, I can't commit to another man until I'm confident I can stand on my own. But some things are more important than the emotional baggage I've always carried. Mack is more important.
And it's time to bring him home.
Beacon is a post-apocalyptic romance set in the near future after a global catastrophe, and it includes violence and (secondary) character death. It's the eighth and final book in the Kindled series.
He's been the heart of our community since Impact, keeping all of us alive in a hostile, unstable world. Now he's been hurt after fighting one too many battles. He's retreated into a massive, dangerous forest to live on his own, and he won't come out.
Mack and I had an on-and-off relationship for years, but it's always been no strings attached. After a toxic marriage, I can't commit to another man until I'm confident I can stand on my own. But some things are more important than the emotional baggage I've always carried. Mack is more important.
And it's time to bring him home.
Beacon is a post-apocalyptic romance set in the near future after a global catastrophe, and it includes violence and (secondary) character death. It's the eighth and final book in the Kindled series.
322 pages, Hardcover
Published September 28, 2024
199 people are currently reading
474 people want to read
About the author
Claire Kent
42 books2,234 followersClaire has been writing romance novels since she was twelve years old. After teaching English at the university level for several years, she started writing full-time under two different pen names. She lives in Virginia.
Her early books are sexy contemporary romances filled with heat and real emotion, but with the Hold series she transitioned to science fiction romance. Her current books are steamy post-apocalyptic romance set in the near future after a global catastrophe. They feature smart, resilient women trying to survive in a new chaotic world and falling in love with strong, gruff, taciturn men.
Claire also writes softer contemporary romances as Noelle Adams,
Her early books are sexy contemporary romances filled with heat and real emotion, but with the Hold series she transitioned to science fiction romance. Her current books are steamy post-apocalyptic romance set in the near future after a global catastrophe. They feature smart, resilient women trying to survive in a new chaotic world and falling in love with strong, gruff, taciturn men.
Claire also writes softer contemporary romances as Noelle Adams,
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 157 reviews
October 19, 2024
*3.5* I struggled hard with the first half. The characters knew each other, but the readers didn’t, which led to the abundant sex scenes feeling very impersonal.
The rest of this review will have slight spoilers, so please skip if you would like to go in blind.
*****
Anna and Mack have been hooking up off and on for over five years. Once she gets him to admit he wants more than a hook up, she gets scared and dumps him. Her previous husband was abusive, and she has understandable fears.
Mack then begins dating/having sex with a bunch of random women. This lasts for about two years. Even when he goes into isolation and is suffering from depression, he manages to find someone else to hook up with.
“I hate that this keeps happening to us. That it can’t be… it can’t be easier for us. That we can’t just be together.”
His eyes squeeze shut, and his shoulders shake a few times. It takes a minute for him to recover enough to say, “I know. I hate it too.”
They act like there is some kind of outside force keeping them apart. Therapy is needed in the apocalypse.
Ten years post-apocalypse
33/38 yr old characters
Character driven plot
Second chance (she stays single, he dates a lot)
HEA
These characters would have made more sense had we have been given more of a backstory on-page for Anna and Mack. We hear about her growth, but we aren’t privy to the actual journey. Yes, if you read the series in order, you will get a few glimmers of Anna, but not enough to make me feel like I really knew who she or Mack really were.
All of sudden minds are changed, and they decide to be together.
It really did feel like two separate stories not quite blended together, because the last 20% was amazing! I’m going with a 3.5 rounded up because I love this universe Claire Kent has created.
*Side note. I wish the inaccuracies would be corrected for a more realistic post-apocalyptic world. There is no one manufacturing gasoline or lotion in the apocalypse.
The rest of this review will have slight spoilers, so please skip if you would like to go in blind.
*****
Anna and Mack have been hooking up off and on for over five years. Once she gets him to admit he wants more than a hook up, she gets scared and dumps him. Her previous husband was abusive, and she has understandable fears.
Mack then begins dating/having sex with a bunch of random women. This lasts for about two years. Even when he goes into isolation and is suffering from depression, he manages to find someone else to hook up with.
“I hate that this keeps happening to us. That it can’t be… it can’t be easier for us. That we can’t just be together.”
His eyes squeeze shut, and his shoulders shake a few times. It takes a minute for him to recover enough to say, “I know. I hate it too.”
They act like there is some kind of outside force keeping them apart. Therapy is needed in the apocalypse.
Ten years post-apocalypse
33/38 yr old characters
Character driven plot
Second chance (she stays single, he dates a lot)
HEA
These characters would have made more sense had we have been given more of a backstory on-page for Anna and Mack. We hear about her growth, but we aren’t privy to the actual journey. Yes, if you read the series in order, you will get a few glimmers of Anna, but not enough to make me feel like I really knew who she or Mack really were.
All of sudden minds are changed, and they decide to be together.
It really did feel like two separate stories not quite blended together, because the last 20% was amazing! I’m going with a 3.5 rounded up because I love this universe Claire Kent has created.
*Side note. I wish the inaccuracies would be corrected for a more realistic post-apocalyptic world. There is no one manufacturing gasoline or lotion in the apocalypse.
October 14, 2024
'𝐁E𝐀C𝐎N' is the final post-apocalyptic romance book set in the near future after a global catastrophe in the (kindled) series (but can be read as a standalone) by author Claire Kent. This is Mack & Anna's story...
Even though this was one book I'd been anticipating and couldn't wait for release day to jump right in, another part was sad that this would be the end of this series which I've enjoyed from the get go especially seeing everyone settle down and thriving had me jumping into this with bated breath wanting to see how Mack's story would pan out.
As we know from the previous book Mack had all but gone off the grid living a life of solitude in the wilds where not many step foot in, leaving everyone behind after being worn out by all the times he'd had to jump in and battle to the death to save everyone who was relying on him.
Anna sets off to find him and hopes to convince him to come back home. Anna and Mack have had an on and off again kind of thing going on between them but the last time they were together she ended it because she wasn't ready for anything permanent.
I was always rooting for Mack, Anna took me a while to warm up to but I grew to understand her more in this book and appreciated her character more.
I think the author saved the best for last, and I can't wait to read what comes next..
Even though this was one book I'd been anticipating and couldn't wait for release day to jump right in, another part was sad that this would be the end of this series which I've enjoyed from the get go especially seeing everyone settle down and thriving had me jumping into this with bated breath wanting to see how Mack's story would pan out.
As we know from the previous book Mack had all but gone off the grid living a life of solitude in the wilds where not many step foot in, leaving everyone behind after being worn out by all the times he'd had to jump in and battle to the death to save everyone who was relying on him.
Anna sets off to find him and hopes to convince him to come back home. Anna and Mack have had an on and off again kind of thing going on between them but the last time they were together she ended it because she wasn't ready for anything permanent.
I was always rooting for Mack, Anna took me a while to warm up to but I grew to understand her more in this book and appreciated her character more.
I think the author saved the best for last, and I can't wait to read what comes next..
Want to Read
October 18, 2024Yay! Got the arc! Gonna move this up on my list because Mack!
March 6, 2025
Reread for Patreon 2025
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What do I do now that it over?
The Kindled series introduced me to Claire Kent. At the time, I didn't know if she would write anymore books besides Last Light & Haven, but here we are. 9 books in and I feel so connected with this series. It feels *right* that Mack and Anna round out this series for us. Though, I can't wait to see what happens in the spin-off series!
This book was more emotional than I was expecting and I felt so much for Mack. Our hero, our tower of strength. Often arriving just when we need him. He's getting worn down by this Dystopian world. Hiding away in a fortress all alone, he needs Anna to come seek him out.
Anna and Mack have danced around each other for years. They've been Friends with Benefits, partners, and friends off and on for a long time. They even almost settled down together once before but parted ways when they thought they wanted different things.
So when Mack goes off the grid, well, MORE off the grid than normal... She goes after him. She goes about trying to convince him to come home. But he has his heels dug in. Anna's not sure if the Mack she knows is still there. I loved these two so much. It made my heart hurt to watch Mack so lost but I loved spending time with him and Anna. It felt right to round this series out with them.
There were also plenty of cameos and seeing peeks at everyone was so great. I can't wait to see what Claire Kent does in this world in the future. But for now, this is a comfort series I will revisit again and again.
5 stars
3 on the spice scale
CW: death, violence, threat of SA
*Thank you to the author for an ARC of this title.*
.
.
.
What do I do now that it over?
The Kindled series introduced me to Claire Kent. At the time, I didn't know if she would write anymore books besides Last Light & Haven, but here we are. 9 books in and I feel so connected with this series. It feels *right* that Mack and Anna round out this series for us. Though, I can't wait to see what happens in the spin-off series!
This book was more emotional than I was expecting and I felt so much for Mack. Our hero, our tower of strength. Often arriving just when we need him. He's getting worn down by this Dystopian world. Hiding away in a fortress all alone, he needs Anna to come seek him out.
Anna and Mack have danced around each other for years. They've been Friends with Benefits, partners, and friends off and on for a long time. They even almost settled down together once before but parted ways when they thought they wanted different things.
So when Mack goes off the grid, well, MORE off the grid than normal... She goes after him. She goes about trying to convince him to come home. But he has his heels dug in. Anna's not sure if the Mack she knows is still there. I loved these two so much. It made my heart hurt to watch Mack so lost but I loved spending time with him and Anna. It felt right to round this series out with them.
There were also plenty of cameos and seeing peeks at everyone was so great. I can't wait to see what Claire Kent does in this world in the future. But for now, this is a comfort series I will revisit again and again.
5 stars
3 on the spice scale
CW: death, violence, threat of SA
*Thank you to the author for an ARC of this title.*
October 14, 2024
3.5
I had to separate this book into two. One part is how this story relates to the series and the other part is Anna and Mack.
I loved this book as an ending to the series. We get to see almost all the characters from the series sprinkled through out the story. I like how she added these characters without it being too much. I think to fully enjoy this book, it must be read last. I especially loved the epilogue. It made me so sad to say good-bye to these characters, but I loved seeing them happy and doing so well.
I was disappointed in Anna and Mack's relationship. Mack, through the series, has been a very different character from CK's other MMCs. So to see him being almost the same as her other MMCs in his book was a bit disappointing. Anna reflects on Mack making her laugh and being this rock for everyone. But we don't get to see it in his book. Mack is struggling to be his old self in this story because of events in Homestead. But I don't think making Mack a weaker character to make Anna stronger was not the way to go. They also danced around a simple conversation of how they feel about each other for most of the book. I didn't like hearing that Mack dated other women after Anna broke up with him. If she was truly the only one for him, I wanted to see him actually wait for her. I never really cared for Anna during the series, but I never completely liked her in this story either. I was hoping that Mack bounced back quicker so we could see the more charismatic side of him rather than the grumpy, moody version of Mack.
Overall, I still love this series and will probably reread it in the future.
Spoiler****
I was also hoping that Mack would get shot in the end (not that I really wanted anyone to get shot) but in Last Light and Princess, he teases that maybe he just needs a bullet wound to get the girl. I think that was a bit of a missed opportunity.
I had to separate this book into two. One part is how this story relates to the series and the other part is Anna and Mack.
I loved this book as an ending to the series. We get to see almost all the characters from the series sprinkled through out the story. I like how she added these characters without it being too much. I think to fully enjoy this book, it must be read last. I especially loved the epilogue. It made me so sad to say good-bye to these characters, but I loved seeing them happy and doing so well.
I was disappointed in Anna and Mack's relationship. Mack, through the series, has been a very different character from CK's other MMCs. So to see him being almost the same as her other MMCs in his book was a bit disappointing. Anna reflects on Mack making her laugh and being this rock for everyone. But we don't get to see it in his book. Mack is struggling to be his old self in this story because of events in Homestead. But I don't think making Mack a weaker character to make Anna stronger was not the way to go. They also danced around a simple conversation of how they feel about each other for most of the book. I didn't like hearing that Mack dated other women after Anna broke up with him. If she was truly the only one for him, I wanted to see him actually wait for her. I never really cared for Anna during the series, but I never completely liked her in this story either. I was hoping that Mack bounced back quicker so we could see the more charismatic side of him rather than the grumpy, moody version of Mack.
Overall, I still love this series and will probably reread it in the future.
Spoiler****
I was also hoping that Mack would get shot in the end (not that I really wanted anyone to get shot) but in Last Light and Princess, he teases that maybe he just needs a bullet wound to get the girl. I think that was a bit of a missed opportunity.
October 12, 2024
I have eagerly waited through the release of 8 books for this couple's story, ever since we saw them in Last Light, and I was so glad they finally got their HEA! And we got to hear a bit more about how things were between them over the years, which was great.
❌ SPOILERS AHEAD ❌
I think this world will always be a favorite. I've enjoyed every book in this series, and it felt very nostalgic to see and hear updates about so many characters from other books here. I also love that some things were flipped on their heads in this one, like how this time it was SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER the MCs saving Maria and her group, instead of the other way around. That was an interesting twist I didn't expect.
And it made my so heart full that it ended on such a sweet scene SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER as their wedding and them being settled in their new home with so many familiar faces around them.
However, there were a few things that really disappointed me.
I understand that this was a story about Anna helping a broken man find the pieces of himself again. I accepted that a huge majority of this book would give us a completely different Mack than we've been used to throughout the series. But there are some things he did I just can't get over.
She kept comparing internally how careful and gentle he was with her when they made love before because he knew her past with an inconsiderate and abusive husband. Then she'd compare how he was no longer considerate or careful with her, and just took what he needed without care. And she's happy with it because she feels like he's finally letting himself go with her, but I don't like how it showed that he longer cared to even check in with her (it's DAYS of this treatment before he even says anything and that's because she brings it up, and then it's WEEKS before he even starts acting like he cares about whether it's affecting her mental health or not).
He's also an ass to her (which I expected), and is then offended in the few times doesn't act as open or warmly as she previously did with him when they were together years before.
And of course he's been fcking anything that moves since their breakup two years earlier, even in his self imposed solitary confinement, while she's been celibate and only wants him. I have to say this in every review or else people get angry, but I don't care if the characters have other partners when they're separated, I just hate that it's always the FMC who never has or even wants other partners during the separation. This author hasn't done this often in her books, so it really annoyed me to see Mack, of all people, act that way when he's been devoted to Anna for 6 years and supposedly only ever wanted her.
Anyway, this was a fast burn sexually, and a very slow burn relationship-wise. There was a lot of the miscommunication trope because they're both convinced the other person isn't ready or wanting a relationship and they're both trying to be martyrs.
It did make me cry, but only in the beginning seeing how differently he treated her. I actually loved watching her pull down his self-built barriers little by little. He truly was struggling, and needed to be around people he loves (especially her) in order to see that he was worth more than just his military contributions. He had given her years to build herself up while he waited, and she in turn gave him the companionship he needed to be able to brave the world again.
This title fits this couple so incredibly well.
❌ SPOILERS AHEAD ❌
I think this world will always be a favorite. I've enjoyed every book in this series, and it felt very nostalgic to see and hear updates about so many characters from other books here. I also love that some things were flipped on their heads in this one, like how this time it was SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER the MCs saving Maria and her group, instead of the other way around. That was an interesting twist I didn't expect.
And it made my so heart full that it ended on such a sweet scene SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER as their wedding and them being settled in their new home with so many familiar faces around them.
However, there were a few things that really disappointed me.
I understand that this was a story about Anna helping a broken man find the pieces of himself again. I accepted that a huge majority of this book would give us a completely different Mack than we've been used to throughout the series. But there are some things he did I just can't get over.
She kept comparing internally how careful and gentle he was with her when they made love before because he knew her past with an inconsiderate and abusive husband. Then she'd compare how he was no longer considerate or careful with her, and just took what he needed without care. And she's happy with it because she feels like he's finally letting himself go with her, but I don't like how it showed that he longer cared to even check in with her (it's DAYS of this treatment before he even says anything and that's because she brings it up, and then it's WEEKS before he even starts acting like he cares about whether it's affecting her mental health or not).
He's also an ass to her (which I expected), and is then offended in the few times doesn't act as open or warmly as she previously did with him when they were together years before.
And of course he's been fcking anything that moves since their breakup two years earlier, even in his self imposed solitary confinement, while she's been celibate and only wants him. I have to say this in every review or else people get angry, but I don't care if the characters have other partners when they're separated, I just hate that it's always the FMC who never has or even wants other partners during the separation. This author hasn't done this often in her books, so it really annoyed me to see Mack, of all people, act that way when he's been devoted to Anna for 6 years and supposedly only ever wanted her.
Anyway, this was a fast burn sexually, and a very slow burn relationship-wise. There was a lot of the miscommunication trope because they're both convinced the other person isn't ready or wanting a relationship and they're both trying to be martyrs.
It did make me cry, but only in the beginning seeing how differently he treated her. I actually loved watching her pull down his self-built barriers little by little. He truly was struggling, and needed to be around people he loves (especially her) in order to see that he was worth more than just his military contributions. He had given her years to build herself up while he waited, and she in turn gave him the companionship he needed to be able to brave the world again.
This title fits this couple so incredibly well.
November 19, 2024
“Beacon” by Claire Kent
2.5⭐️/5⭐️
3🌶/5🌶
“You’ve always done so much to take care of everyone else. You’re allowed to let someone take care of you too.”
-This review is going to be short and sweet. I knew going into Mack’s story that the expectations were high, it’s been built up over the course of the entire series. Unfortunately, this book really missed the mark. I think it would have worked so much better as a dual POV, I simply don’t have a strong enough connection with Anna compared to Mack. Mack is a constant throughout the series; he’s in just about every book (if not every book, I’d have to go back and check). So his presence is strong. Anna’s, however, isn’t, and I think having this be a second chance romance immediately puts her at a disadvantage.
-The jump from “Anna you need to leave me alone” and Mack acting very cold towards her, to them tearing each other’s clothes off and having rough sex gave me whiplash. I think more time needed to happen between their reunion and when they had sex. Speaking more on their sex, many of the scenes played out the same exact way; there was no variety.
-Overall I found this story to be really boring, and when we got past the big group effort at around 80% into the story, I was left thinking “...well now what?”. There was something missing, because everything immediately petered out.
-The reason why I’m bumping the rating up half a star on Goodreads, and what ended up being my favorite aspect of the story, were all of the appearances from past MCs. I love it when series bring back past couples and show how far their relationship has progressed.
-While this book ended up being a disappointment I still plan on reading more of Claire Kent’s books, especially the upcoming spin-off series she has teased.
2.5⭐️/5⭐️
3🌶/5🌶
“You’ve always done so much to take care of everyone else. You’re allowed to let someone take care of you too.”
-This review is going to be short and sweet. I knew going into Mack’s story that the expectations were high, it’s been built up over the course of the entire series. Unfortunately, this book really missed the mark. I think it would have worked so much better as a dual POV, I simply don’t have a strong enough connection with Anna compared to Mack. Mack is a constant throughout the series; he’s in just about every book (if not every book, I’d have to go back and check). So his presence is strong. Anna’s, however, isn’t, and I think having this be a second chance romance immediately puts her at a disadvantage.
-The jump from “Anna you need to leave me alone” and Mack acting very cold towards her, to them tearing each other’s clothes off and having rough sex gave me whiplash. I think more time needed to happen between their reunion and when they had sex. Speaking more on their sex, many of the scenes played out the same exact way; there was no variety.
-Overall I found this story to be really boring, and when we got past the big group effort at around 80% into the story, I was left thinking “...well now what?”. There was something missing, because everything immediately petered out.
-The reason why I’m bumping the rating up half a star on Goodreads, and what ended up being my favorite aspect of the story, were all of the appearances from past MCs. I love it when series bring back past couples and show how far their relationship has progressed.
-While this book ended up being a disappointment I still plan on reading more of Claire Kent’s books, especially the upcoming spin-off series she has teased.
September 30, 2024
Oh my gosh! This book gave me all the feels and then the emotional “umph” that this was the last of the series. But what a way to end it all!
Mack and Anna’s story pulled me in, and holy heck, it kept me hanging on to every single word on the page. This is rich with so much emotion while submerging me into the harsh realities of living in a post apocalyptic world. The world building feels real, the characters are relatable and the chemistry/steam of these two together was unlike anything I’ve read from this author before. It is layered with danger, laced with angst, and filled with warmth and humanity.
No one does dystopian romance like Claire Kent and the Kindled series is the one to go to for end of the world feel good stories. I am sad to see it end and can only hope this author will continue it with a spin off or a continuation in the future.
Heroine POV
Safe
Triggers
Steam
Mack and Anna’s story pulled me in, and holy heck, it kept me hanging on to every single word on the page. This is rich with so much emotion while submerging me into the harsh realities of living in a post apocalyptic world. The world building feels real, the characters are relatable and the chemistry/steam of these two together was unlike anything I’ve read from this author before. It is layered with danger, laced with angst, and filled with warmth and humanity.
No one does dystopian romance like Claire Kent and the Kindled series is the one to go to for end of the world feel good stories. I am sad to see it end and can only hope this author will continue it with a spin off or a continuation in the future.
Heroine POV
Safe
Triggers
Steam
Read
June 12, 2024Damn it! I've wanted this one for a while and now that it's coming I'm like "nonononononono!" bc it means this series is over. And that's just awful. I hope she has a spin off with another similar series. Maybe like humanity getting some tech back? I don't know. I'll read anything she writes, she's one of my comfort reads; not too long, well written, lots of sparks between MC's, interesting stories, you know what I'm talking about, we all have them.
I'll leave a review after I read it, I need to go review all her others that I've read. I'm lazy.
I'll leave a review after I read it, I need to go review all her others that I've read. I'm lazy.
October 11, 2024
4.75🌟!
I’m heartbroken that this is the last book in the series even though I hope the author continue it.
It’s finally my favourite Mack’s turn for HEA and what a story it was. There is healing, self discovery, selfless love and service, passion, action and everything in between. In every book Mack amazed me with how big his heart was and it’s beautiful to read how they all kinda ganged up when he needed them.
Anna was strong and resilient character and perfect for Mack. They both needed time and I loved how everything tied up in the end.
Safety-They had a an on again off again kinda relationship and when She ends with him the last time it’s mentioned that he dates another people but not mentioned if he slept with them.
Not gonna lie, I’ll definitely miss these wonderful and resilient people.
—Apocalypse Romance.
—Second Chance, Forced proximity.
—TW, could be read as standalone and recommended.
—KU
I received an advance review copy and I’m leaving this review voluntarily.
I’m heartbroken that this is the last book in the series even though I hope the author continue it.
It’s finally my favourite Mack’s turn for HEA and what a story it was. There is healing, self discovery, selfless love and service, passion, action and everything in between. In every book Mack amazed me with how big his heart was and it’s beautiful to read how they all kinda ganged up when he needed them.
Anna was strong and resilient character and perfect for Mack. They both needed time and I loved how everything tied up in the end.
Safety-They had a an on again off again kinda relationship and when She ends with him the last time it’s mentioned that he dates another people but not mentioned if he slept with them.
Not gonna lie, I’ll definitely miss these wonderful and resilient people.
—Apocalypse Romance.
—Second Chance, Forced proximity.
—TW, could be read as standalone and recommended.
—KU
I received an advance review copy and I’m leaving this review voluntarily.
October 14, 2024
Beacon is book 8 and the final book in the Kindled series. I have been a huge fan of this series since the beginning and couldn't wait to finally get Mack and Anna's story. Mack has been the backbone of so many in the communities but after a tragic event he goes off to be alone. Anna is Mack's on again off again lover. Two years prior she found out Mack wanted more than she was willing to give and broke it off with him. Breaking up with Mack was the hardest thing she has ever had to do because she loves him, but a previous toxic relationship shaped her thoughts. Mack has been living in a cabin in The Wild for 6 months and those that love him including Anna feel it's time for him to come home. Their first encounter was heartbreaking, Mack is no longer the man he used to be, and his treatment of Anna was hard for her to deal with. It doesn't take long for these two to start up their intimate relationship and it happens a whole lot. I loved their chemistry and connection. Now, while I loved this book, I did find myself frustrated at times and wishing they would just have a conversation. I enjoyed seeing some of my favorite characters and I loved Mack and Anna's HEA.
***I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own***
***I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own***
March 17, 2026
Mack was my favorite character throughout the series, he is quite literally the backbone of this series. so naturally i’ve been excited to finally read his own installment after 7 books. but his character was totally spoiled for me by him being a manwhore, it’s so out of character of him that it made disconnect from his and Anna’s story and i ended up loving her way more than i originally liked Mack’s personage. honestly, it’s such a shame that his character was ruined by such an unnecessary detail.. that could’ve been omitted or never added. it just made me sick to my stomach reading about how many women were there in his life for the past 2 years even when he was supposed to be a recluse.
November 5, 2024
Beacon is the 8th standalone book in Claire Kent’s post apocalyptic romance series, a series I’ve loved so much! This was the much-anticipated second chance story for series regulars, Mack and Anna, a couple who have been on-and-off with their no-strings attached relationship for years.
It is Year 10 after Impact—an event where a large asteroid crashed into Europe, decimating the entire continent, destabilizing infrastructure and governments around the globe, and sending the world into a descending spiral of chaos, violence, and deprivation. Life has been gritty, rough, and dangerous for those just trying to survive, but things are finally starting to look more and more hopeful. Anna sets out at the beginning of this story to find Mack. He took off to the Wilds six months ago and hasn’t been seen since.
This one took me a bit to get into, I wasn’t as invested in this story like I have been for others in the series…which is wild to think I’ve been reading this series for 2 years now. Mack and Anna still have feelings for one another, he’s always wanted more from her but never pushed for more and both kind of never expressed their feelings and emotions fully. Anna had an abusive marriage in the past that affected her relationship with Mack in the beginning. They very quickly jump right back into their no-strings attached relationship, but now they’re finally on the same page and talking more as they’re holed up in the cabin together in the wilds. A lot of the same back and forth issues of them not sure where the other stands, feeling pulled to each other physically, and getting into dangerous situations. I still liked this one, I just didn’t love it. But I’d read anything in this series, I just love this world created and seeing updates on all the past couples and characters (very much “where are they now” moments).
I received an ARC, all thoughts in this review are my own.
It is Year 10 after Impact—an event where a large asteroid crashed into Europe, decimating the entire continent, destabilizing infrastructure and governments around the globe, and sending the world into a descending spiral of chaos, violence, and deprivation. Life has been gritty, rough, and dangerous for those just trying to survive, but things are finally starting to look more and more hopeful. Anna sets out at the beginning of this story to find Mack. He took off to the Wilds six months ago and hasn’t been seen since.
This one took me a bit to get into, I wasn’t as invested in this story like I have been for others in the series…which is wild to think I’ve been reading this series for 2 years now. Mack and Anna still have feelings for one another, he’s always wanted more from her but never pushed for more and both kind of never expressed their feelings and emotions fully. Anna had an abusive marriage in the past that affected her relationship with Mack in the beginning. They very quickly jump right back into their no-strings attached relationship, but now they’re finally on the same page and talking more as they’re holed up in the cabin together in the wilds. A lot of the same back and forth issues of them not sure where the other stands, feeling pulled to each other physically, and getting into dangerous situations. I still liked this one, I just didn’t love it. But I’d read anything in this series, I just love this world created and seeing updates on all the past couples and characters (very much “where are they now” moments).
I received an ARC, all thoughts in this review are my own.
annoying-dnr
March 24, 2026Self note -
FWB for yrs (intermittently)
Few yr separation
He manhoes it up, she’s single
Not worth the energy tbh. Not for me.
FWB for yrs (intermittently)
Few yr separation
He manhoes it up, she’s single
Not worth the energy tbh. Not for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 20, 2024
Look, I got about 65% through and just didn't give AF about these characters, so I DNF'd it. Sadly, I had a feeling I was never going to be interested in this installment. In all the books in the series, Mack never grabbed my attention. He seemed to be a happy-go-lucky kinda guy, and Anna didn't interest me either. I was hoping the author would use her magic to change my feelings, but unfortunately, it didn't work for me. I've never been a big fan of second-chance romances because most times you miss out on the whole reason they clicked to begin with. It's mentioned here and there in this one, but not enough for me. The reason they broke up was kinda blah, and when they meet back up, they're fucking like bunnies and yet, they go through this whole song and dance about why not being together is best for the other. It's mostly miscommunication and misunderstandings. I don't get it, but I also don't care. These two were boring and, once again, that Maria chick is starting another war with another faction that I have no interest in seeing how it ends.
December 17, 2024
Trigger Warnings:
1 Last Light
2 Haven
3 Princess
4 Embers
5 Hero
6 Citadel
7 Sanctuary
8 Homestead
Crazy how I am done this series, we have finally gotten to Mack and Anna’s book. I’m not gonna lie, it was a lil disappointing but it did provide closure for a lot of other characters. If you didn’t know, Mack has been a character that has helped almost every main couple in each book, except Citadel I think? I’ve loved him since Last Light. I recommend you read all the books before reading this since you will miss so many references. Especially Homestead since something happens to Mack and this takes place a coupla months after that. Anna and Mack have a lot of history but it wasn’t shown well to the reader. It was more tell than show, their relationship didn’t feel as deep to me. I wanted Mack to be happy but he seemed like the other MMCs in the Kindled series because of stuff that happened in Homestead. I was looking forward to seeing the Mack we saw throughout the series. I know trauma fucks people up but I just wasn’t a fan of the plot in this book. I really liked Anna for never giving up and always taking care of Mack. Mack has helped so many people for years so it is nice to see someone prioritize him. But their relationship felt more sexual than emotional. I was hoping to learn more about both of their pasts, but that didn’t happen. We don’t learn much about Mack but we vaguely know what happened to Anna. I feel like second chance romance is a hit or miss for me but I’m glad I read this. Seeing all the characters thriving and happy had me very emotional. I wanted to learn more about Mack and Anna rather than deal with the typical grump who shuts out the girl until she manages to make him melt for her. I was so happy to hear that this series won’t be over, a spin-off series called The Wild is gonna come out and it will focus on The Wild. The Wild is more like the nature side of The Last of Us, there are already some interesting characters that have me intrigued. Love Claire Kent and her writing even if some things in this weren’t for me.
It has been 6 months since anyone has heard from Mack. Mack has held communities together from all over the State. Anna, Mack’s friends-with-benefits partner wants Mack back. But Mack has never shut himself out from the world before. Will Anna manage to bring Mack back?
Now for spoilers
Stay safe folks!
1 Last Light
2 Haven
3 Princess
4 Embers
5 Hero
6 Citadel
7 Sanctuary
8 Homestead
Crazy how I am done this series, we have finally gotten to Mack and Anna’s book. I’m not gonna lie, it was a lil disappointing but it did provide closure for a lot of other characters. If you didn’t know, Mack has been a character that has helped almost every main couple in each book, except Citadel I think? I’ve loved him since Last Light. I recommend you read all the books before reading this since you will miss so many references. Especially Homestead since something happens to Mack and this takes place a coupla months after that. Anna and Mack have a lot of history but it wasn’t shown well to the reader. It was more tell than show, their relationship didn’t feel as deep to me. I wanted Mack to be happy but he seemed like the other MMCs in the Kindled series because of stuff that happened in Homestead. I was looking forward to seeing the Mack we saw throughout the series. I know trauma fucks people up but I just wasn’t a fan of the plot in this book. I really liked Anna for never giving up and always taking care of Mack. Mack has helped so many people for years so it is nice to see someone prioritize him. But their relationship felt more sexual than emotional. I was hoping to learn more about both of their pasts, but that didn’t happen. We don’t learn much about Mack but we vaguely know what happened to Anna. I feel like second chance romance is a hit or miss for me but I’m glad I read this. Seeing all the characters thriving and happy had me very emotional. I wanted to learn more about Mack and Anna rather than deal with the typical grump who shuts out the girl until she manages to make him melt for her. I was so happy to hear that this series won’t be over, a spin-off series called The Wild is gonna come out and it will focus on The Wild. The Wild is more like the nature side of The Last of Us, there are already some interesting characters that have me intrigued. Love Claire Kent and her writing even if some things in this weren’t for me.
It has been 6 months since anyone has heard from Mack. Mack has held communities together from all over the State. Anna, Mack’s friends-with-benefits partner wants Mack back. But Mack has never shut himself out from the world before. Will Anna manage to bring Mack back?
Now for spoilers
Stay safe folks!
February 22, 2025
I don’t know if it’s just the sadness of this book being the end of a beloved series, or if it really was as good as I feel. It was an emotional read for me. After seeing Mack and Anna in all the books, it felt special to finally get their book. And I LOVE Maria, so I really enjoyed learning more about her.
This one is pretty smutty from the beginning, and man are Anna and Mack hot. This is a sad story though. I teared up a few times.
There’s a side plot that starts a little before the halfway point, and it got me back to feeling excited about this series. I know the series is over now, I just mean I got all hyped up like I did when I first started Kindled. Especially since this side plot introduced the new series, The Wild. Really can’t wait to get into that one.
Also, one of my absolute favorite tropes is here-comes-the-cavalry when it’s done right, and Claire Kent always does it right. It’s done especially well in this book.
This one is pretty smutty from the beginning, and man are Anna and Mack hot. This is a sad story though. I teared up a few times.
There’s a side plot that starts a little before the halfway point, and it got me back to feeling excited about this series. I know the series is over now, I just mean I got all hyped up like I did when I first started Kindled. Especially since this side plot introduced the new series, The Wild. Really can’t wait to get into that one.
Also, one of my absolute favorite tropes is here-comes-the-cavalry when it’s done right, and Claire Kent always does it right. It’s done especially well in this book.
October 13, 2024
4.5 stars
Headlines:
Second chances
Building trust
All in
What a finale Kent gave us with Mack and Anna's long-awaited story. Nothing about this disappointed; it was warm, building and such a character-driven story but still strong on plot.
I did not expect Mack's characterisation to be what it was when Anna sought him out. He was cold, harsh and beyond reluctant. What was even more surprising was seeing Anna certain of herself and her feelings. This second chance post-apocalyptic romance had all the feels and fire. It felt hard fought without unnecessary angst.
We got time with side characters in this installment without any detraction from Anna and Mack. Six books in and these various communities of Kindled are so important across the couples we've seen along the way.
I'm so sorry to see this series come to an end but comforted by the fact we're getting an inconnected community in this world soon. I'm excited to read more from this wider world Claire Kent is crafting.
Thank you to the author for the eARC.
Find this review at A Take From Two Cities Blog.
Headlines:
Second chances
Building trust
All in
What a finale Kent gave us with Mack and Anna's long-awaited story. Nothing about this disappointed; it was warm, building and such a character-driven story but still strong on plot.
I did not expect Mack's characterisation to be what it was when Anna sought him out. He was cold, harsh and beyond reluctant. What was even more surprising was seeing Anna certain of herself and her feelings. This second chance post-apocalyptic romance had all the feels and fire. It felt hard fought without unnecessary angst.
We got time with side characters in this installment without any detraction from Anna and Mack. Six books in and these various communities of Kindled are so important across the couples we've seen along the way.
I'm so sorry to see this series come to an end but comforted by the fact we're getting an inconnected community in this world soon. I'm excited to read more from this wider world Claire Kent is crafting.
Thank you to the author for the eARC.
Find this review at A Take From Two Cities Blog.
May 30, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️
I can't believe this series is over, but I think closing out the Kindled series with Mack and Anna was the perfect way to finish out one of my favorite series. I loved Last Light, and I have loved every book in the Kindled series. I was highly anticipating Mack and Anna's book because they were teased throughout the series.
Mack is one of my favorite Claire Kent heroes, and it was so hard to see how much he was struggling in the beginning of the book. Throughout the series, he has been one of the most positive rays of sunshine, especially compared to the usual grumpy Claire Kent heroes. He was responsible for saving so many of our favorite characters, and he built connections with each of the communities. He is dealing with the trauma from the events in the previous book and has gone to live away from the communities in a cabin deep in the wild. Anna is worried about him and makes the dangerous trek into the wild to try to get him to some back with her. Mack is not in a good place when Anna finds him, and he tries to push her away. She has to be really patient and try to get through to the Mack she loved.
Mack and Anna have had a complicated relationship, but they both really love each other. They had a friends with benefits relationship till Mack wanted more, and Anna was not ready at that time. A couple of years have passed, and Anna definitely wants more, but Mack may not be ready when he is in such a dark place.
I loved this book, and these two characters were perfect for each other. I wasn't expecting to get this emotional, but Mack just holds a special place in my heart. I also appreciated seeing a lot of the characters from the series, especially Travis and Layne from Last Light.
This series will forever be one of my favorite post-apocalyptic series, and I highly recommend it to everyone.
Thank you to the author and Net Galley for providing this ARC.
🌶️🌶️🌶️
I can't believe this series is over, but I think closing out the Kindled series with Mack and Anna was the perfect way to finish out one of my favorite series. I loved Last Light, and I have loved every book in the Kindled series. I was highly anticipating Mack and Anna's book because they were teased throughout the series.
Mack is one of my favorite Claire Kent heroes, and it was so hard to see how much he was struggling in the beginning of the book. Throughout the series, he has been one of the most positive rays of sunshine, especially compared to the usual grumpy Claire Kent heroes. He was responsible for saving so many of our favorite characters, and he built connections with each of the communities. He is dealing with the trauma from the events in the previous book and has gone to live away from the communities in a cabin deep in the wild. Anna is worried about him and makes the dangerous trek into the wild to try to get him to some back with her. Mack is not in a good place when Anna finds him, and he tries to push her away. She has to be really patient and try to get through to the Mack she loved.
Mack and Anna have had a complicated relationship, but they both really love each other. They had a friends with benefits relationship till Mack wanted more, and Anna was not ready at that time. A couple of years have passed, and Anna definitely wants more, but Mack may not be ready when he is in such a dark place.
I loved this book, and these two characters were perfect for each other. I wasn't expecting to get this emotional, but Mack just holds a special place in my heart. I also appreciated seeing a lot of the characters from the series, especially Travis and Layne from Last Light.
This series will forever be one of my favorite post-apocalyptic series, and I highly recommend it to everyone.
Thank you to the author and Net Galley for providing this ARC.
November 7, 2024
Mack and Anna deserved a better story.
This was sadly a rushed job at what could have been an epic finale to the series.
This was sadly a rushed job at what could have been an epic finale to the series.
September 29, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
Read if you like: survival, post apocalyptic romance, violence, death, he saves her, she saves him, grumpy x sunshine, close proximity, sacrifice, gun fight, some angst, trauma, character development and relationship development
Beacon is the highly anticipated final book in the Kindled series (but can be read as a standalone). It was the perfect story to tie the series off 🥹
Mack and Anna have had an on and off, no strings attached relationship for years. After he retreats into the dangerous forest to live alone, Anna decides to find him to bring him back home.
This was a more emotional story, filled with character growth, trauma, acceptance, hurt and hard truths. We got more depth in this book than any other in the series, because of this, it became my favourite book by far. Their relationship development was so beautifully written, it was so healthy to see their dynamic become more balanced. I was just obsessed with the way they love and care for each other. That emotional but somehow sensual massage scene?? Oh my I was going 🥹🥵😭😫🔥
Also I loved getting glimpses of all the other couples and seeing their kids and where they’re all at 🥰
Thank you Claire Kent for such a wonderful ending. I am so attached to this series and highly recommend everyone to give it a go.
Thank you NetGalley for this ARC! 💖
Read if you like: survival, post apocalyptic romance, violence, death, he saves her, she saves him, grumpy x sunshine, close proximity, sacrifice, gun fight, some angst, trauma, character development and relationship development
Beacon is the highly anticipated final book in the Kindled series (but can be read as a standalone). It was the perfect story to tie the series off 🥹
Mack and Anna have had an on and off, no strings attached relationship for years. After he retreats into the dangerous forest to live alone, Anna decides to find him to bring him back home.
This was a more emotional story, filled with character growth, trauma, acceptance, hurt and hard truths. We got more depth in this book than any other in the series, because of this, it became my favourite book by far. Their relationship development was so beautifully written, it was so healthy to see their dynamic become more balanced. I was just obsessed with the way they love and care for each other. That emotional but somehow sensual massage scene?? Oh my I was going 🥹🥵😭😫🔥
Also I loved getting glimpses of all the other couples and seeing their kids and where they’re all at 🥰
Thank you Claire Kent for such a wonderful ending. I am so attached to this series and highly recommend everyone to give it a go.
Thank you NetGalley for this ARC! 💖
May 2, 2026
Saved the best for last. My favorite in this series hands down. I also loved seeing the authors writing improve with each book she wrote. Can't wait to read more stories in this world.
October 13, 2024
I loved this book. I have been looking forward to reading Mack’s story. I love this world that Kent has created. Her characters are so lovable. I’m glad Anna finally acknowledged her feelings for Mack. I’m glad they got their HEA.
December 5, 2024
Maybe I’ve just left this apocalypse romance phase?
I was excited to see this was coming out when I was burning through the rest of the series earlier this year, but I can’t lie I’m disappointed 😔
It felt like they resolved 90% of their issues in the first half and spent the rest of the book in repetitious cycles of denial, stress about the future, and conversations about nothing. The whole plot conflict could have been resolved with one conversation and they just didn’t have it until the end. And everytime it felt like they were both on the same page, one of them pulls away for no reason. Were the other books like this??
There were some in the series that I liked more than others, and maybe 1 that was tough to get through but this one had my eyes glazing over for the whole second half!
And of course there’s pregnancy ending, because why wouldn’t there be?
I was excited to see this was coming out when I was burning through the rest of the series earlier this year, but I can’t lie I’m disappointed 😔
It felt like they resolved 90% of their issues in the first half and spent the rest of the book in repetitious cycles of denial, stress about the future, and conversations about nothing. The whole plot conflict could have been resolved with one conversation and they just didn’t have it until the end. And everytime it felt like they were both on the same page, one of them pulls away for no reason. Were the other books like this??
There were some in the series that I liked more than others, and maybe 1 that was tough to get through but this one had my eyes glazing over for the whole second half!
And of course there’s pregnancy ending, because why wouldn’t there be?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 17, 2024
You don’t have to be the same man you were to be good or be happy.
In this post-apocalyptic world, Mack has been a messenger of hope to communities trying to regain a part of their humanity. When a tragedy strikes, he is irrevocably changed and isolates himself in The Wild. Anna, a former lover and close confidant, attempts to help him reconcile with the man he is now.
A lot more emotionally charged than the previous books, Beacon is a story of found family and new found self. I found the plot lacking in any of the suspense we usually received in the other books....most likely because these characters weren't strangers to each other.
Looking forward to seeing what the spin off series holds!
In this post-apocalyptic world, Mack has been a messenger of hope to communities trying to regain a part of their humanity. When a tragedy strikes, he is irrevocably changed and isolates himself in The Wild. Anna, a former lover and close confidant, attempts to help him reconcile with the man he is now.
A lot more emotionally charged than the previous books, Beacon is a story of found family and new found self. I found the plot lacking in any of the suspense we usually received in the other books....most likely because these characters weren't strangers to each other.
Looking forward to seeing what the spin off series holds!
January 21, 2025
So…we’ve got a man who’s obviously depressed and doesn’t care enough about this woman to pursue or commit, very little plot, and a lot of gratuitous sex. I don’t recommend.
September 30, 2025
I just woke up one day and knew—I knew—that you were my resting place.
Nostalgia is the word that best describes how I felt reaching the end of Claire Kent’s Kindled series with Beacon. Throughout the series, on and off, Mack has been a towering presence in the background, the steady hand, the heart of the community, the man everyone leaned on when the world crumbled after the event known as Impact. His story has been one of the most anticipated of the series (which I am sure is a sentiment shared by many followers of the series), and while this installment may not have become my personal favorite, I can appreciate the way it brought his journey full circle.
Mack is a man who has carried the weight of countless battles, both physical and emotional. For ten years he has been the anchor in the storm, the one who kept order amidst chaos, and the one everyone else turned to for assistance. But even the strongest shoulders eventually give way and that is what happens when a certain chain of events becomes the final straw after years of loss and responsibility. Add to this, the loss of his dreams of a family with the woman who owns his heart, needless to say he withdraws completely, retreating into the wilderness to nurse wounds too deep to share.
When Mack fails to return back to the community even as months pass, it is Anna who finally sets out to bring him back, knowing that it may not be as easy as that. Mack who would rather nurse his wounds in private, is reluctant to let her in, both literally and figuratively, until he is forced into sharing his quarters with Anna, which serves to the start to the journey of shared healing for the two.
Though Anna is pivotal to the story, I often found myself struggling with her choices. At thirty-three, she is a survivor of an abusive marriage, determined never to lose her independence again. Her hesitancy to commit to Mack comes from a place of self-preservation, a belief that she cannot be the partner he deserves because she still has so much healing of her own to do. And yet, beneath all that, it is evident she has always loved him. She just could not let herself give in.
What I did admire was Anna’s decision to risk her life for Mack, both literally and figuratively. When she ventures into the dangerous forest to bring him back, it is as much about saving him physically as it is about proving her feelings at last. Mack’s need for reassurance, for proof that he is not alone and unloved, felt heartbreaking and necessary after all he has endured. It was only fair that she had to be the one to step forward and make that sacrifice, just as he has carried everyone else, including Anna, for so long.
The theme of positive masculinity runs strong here. Mack is written as a man of great strength, but also deep vulnerability. His willingness to shoulder responsibility, his devotion to community, and his steadfast love for Anna makes him a hero worth remembering.
Still, as much as I admired his character, I found myself less enamored with the romance than I expected. Perhaps it was the years of buildup between Anna and Mack throughout the series which Ms. Kent expected us to take notes of, or the way their relationship often simmered just below the surface, but when it finally took center stage, I did not connect with their love as deeply as I hoped.
That said, I do understand why the characters were written the way they were. Breanna, in her story, needed a gentler partner to help her heal, and while Mack’s trauma was different, he needed the space and solitude, time to grieve and recover privately before he could return whole. The conclusion between Anna and Mack perhaps makes sense for who they are, even if the emotional punch did not hit me with the same intensity as some of the earlier books in the series.
Now that the series has come to a close, I cannot help but feel a bittersweet ache. Beacon ties the threads together, but it also leaves me looking forward. Logan, who made only a small appearance here, completely stole my attention, and I am already anticipating his book with high hopes. Now there is a hero of the kind I identify with!
Recommended for: readers who love end-of-the-world survival romances, broken-but-steadfast heroes, and heroines learning to claim their own strength.
Final Verdict: A bittersweet finale; Mack’s story closes the series with quiet strength, even if the romance did not burn as brightly as I had hoped.
Rating = 3/5
For more reviews and quotes, please visit A Maldivian's Passion for Romance
January 29, 2025
4.5 stars
FINALLLYYYYY Mack and Anna's story!! It feels like forever since we were first introduced to them in Last Light. It's been 10 years since Mack and Anna have met. They've had an on-and-off affair, but Anna broke things off when she found out that Mack wanted a more serious relationship. Anna had been in an abusive marriage before she met Mack and she's scared of losing herself again by committing to a serious relationship.
Beacon is the final book in the Kindled series, and I personally wouldn't read it as a standalone. I recommend reading Last Light first, and then the Kindled series in order. I can't quite recall if Mack and Anna have appeared in every single book of the Kindled series, but either way, I feel like readers would appreciate their relationship a lot more if they read the series in order, starting with Last Light.
Mack is the warm and kindhearted man that everyone loves and relies on. He's the glue that holds everyone and everything together in this post-apocalyptic world. But something happens at the end of Homestead (book 7) that breaks Mack. He leaves everything and everyone behind to live by himself in Chloe's grandpa's cabin. It's been 6 months, and Anna is officially worried about Mack. So she goes to find him and bring him back home.
It was soooo hard seeing Mack be so broken, cold, and distant. He always takes care of everyone, but now he's the one who needs to be taken care of. What I love about Anna is how she intrinsically understands Mack on an intimate level. She takes it upon herself to care for him even though he tries to push her away. And whether Mack likes it or not, the chemistry between him and Anna still burns brighter than ever.
Gosh, these two were SO INTENSE together. I loved it. Their relationship is so emotionally intense and ooooooh the dialogues were sooo swoony. A good chunk of their story takes place at the remote cabin, and a lot of time is dedicated to talking to each other, helping Mack deal with his trauma, and taking care of each other. Oh, and also banging each other LOL. I loved it so much.
The last 30% of the story is when the overarching plot becomes active and we get some action. For a few books now, we've known that someone has been organizing the bad guys to encroach on land in The Wild. A lot of this is laying the foundation of a new spin-off series set in this post-apocalyptic world. A new influential character named Logan is introduced and I'm sure this is not the last we've seen of him.
I loved Mack and Anna's ending. Claire Kent gave them the HEA that they truly deserved and I'm so happy knowing Mack and Anna are happy together 🥺
FINALLLYYYYY Mack and Anna's story!! It feels like forever since we were first introduced to them in Last Light. It's been 10 years since Mack and Anna have met. They've had an on-and-off affair, but Anna broke things off when she found out that Mack wanted a more serious relationship. Anna had been in an abusive marriage before she met Mack and she's scared of losing herself again by committing to a serious relationship.
Beacon is the final book in the Kindled series, and I personally wouldn't read it as a standalone. I recommend reading Last Light first, and then the Kindled series in order. I can't quite recall if Mack and Anna have appeared in every single book of the Kindled series, but either way, I feel like readers would appreciate their relationship a lot more if they read the series in order, starting with Last Light.
Mack is the warm and kindhearted man that everyone loves and relies on. He's the glue that holds everyone and everything together in this post-apocalyptic world. But something happens at the end of Homestead (book 7) that breaks Mack. He leaves everything and everyone behind to live by himself in Chloe's grandpa's cabin. It's been 6 months, and Anna is officially worried about Mack. So she goes to find him and bring him back home.
It was soooo hard seeing Mack be so broken, cold, and distant. He always takes care of everyone, but now he's the one who needs to be taken care of. What I love about Anna is how she intrinsically understands Mack on an intimate level. She takes it upon herself to care for him even though he tries to push her away. And whether Mack likes it or not, the chemistry between him and Anna still burns brighter than ever.
Gosh, these two were SO INTENSE together. I loved it. Their relationship is so emotionally intense and ooooooh the dialogues were sooo swoony. A good chunk of their story takes place at the remote cabin, and a lot of time is dedicated to talking to each other, helping Mack deal with his trauma, and taking care of each other. Oh, and also banging each other LOL. I loved it so much.
The last 30% of the story is when the overarching plot becomes active and we get some action. For a few books now, we've known that someone has been organizing the bad guys to encroach on land in The Wild. A lot of this is laying the foundation of a new spin-off series set in this post-apocalyptic world. A new influential character named Logan is introduced and I'm sure this is not the last we've seen of him.
I loved Mack and Anna's ending. Claire Kent gave them the HEA that they truly deserved and I'm so happy knowing Mack and Anna are happy together 🥺
"I just woke up one day and knew—I knew—that you were my resting place."
October 9, 2024
I’m so incredibly sad knowing this series is at an end. Even knowing there’s a spin-off about The Wild coming, I’m going to miss this crew. But what a perfect ending to a series I love so much!
Mack and Anna. Anna and Mack. We’ve seen them over the course of 9 books (including the prequel with Layne and Travis, my beloveds). And it’s been a constant push pull situation where two people that clearly love each other just can’t get their timing right. This was a bit of a different direction than I thought we’d go, but in the best possible way.
Mack is such a *strong* character. Emotionally and physically, he’s been the one to hold the metaphorical fort down for all these apocalyptic couples and communities. But he’s broken. An apocalyptic world is harsh and Kent doesn’t shy away from that with Mack. For someone that takes such pride in his identity as a peacemaker and protector, the accidental death of a child while fighting bad guys has left him ravaged. And maybe if this wasn’t post apocalyptic, he’d have found therapy. But he doesn’t have that luxury. He has Anna. And Anna is going to drag him back into the light even if if’s at the risk of her own heart because long ago he did the same for her.
This was just a perfect conclusion. Less action filled than I expected from this couple but I think it worked even better that way. It’s about a mutual exchange of caretaking and allowing yourself to be vulnerable with the one person that understands you. Mack and Anna’s time in the cabin is rife with angst due to some good ole Claire Kent miscommunication and the uncertainty of what the other wants. They’ve been in different places emotionally the majority of their relationship (which we’ve seen throughout the series). But finally, Mack and Anna have forged a hard won path to a HEA. And I’m a little teary eyed at saying goodbye to them and the rest of the Halbrook/New Haven crew.
Mack and Anna. Anna and Mack. We’ve seen them over the course of 9 books (including the prequel with Layne and Travis, my beloveds). And it’s been a constant push pull situation where two people that clearly love each other just can’t get their timing right. This was a bit of a different direction than I thought we’d go, but in the best possible way.
Mack is such a *strong* character. Emotionally and physically, he’s been the one to hold the metaphorical fort down for all these apocalyptic couples and communities. But he’s broken. An apocalyptic world is harsh and Kent doesn’t shy away from that with Mack. For someone that takes such pride in his identity as a peacemaker and protector, the accidental death of a child while fighting bad guys has left him ravaged. And maybe if this wasn’t post apocalyptic, he’d have found therapy. But he doesn’t have that luxury. He has Anna. And Anna is going to drag him back into the light even if if’s at the risk of her own heart because long ago he did the same for her.
This was just a perfect conclusion. Less action filled than I expected from this couple but I think it worked even better that way. It’s about a mutual exchange of caretaking and allowing yourself to be vulnerable with the one person that understands you. Mack and Anna’s time in the cabin is rife with angst due to some good ole Claire Kent miscommunication and the uncertainty of what the other wants. They’ve been in different places emotionally the majority of their relationship (which we’ve seen throughout the series). But finally, Mack and Anna have forged a hard won path to a HEA. And I’m a little teary eyed at saying goodbye to them and the rest of the Halbrook/New Haven crew.
September 24, 2024
”i’ve never been stronger or freer than when i’m loving you.”₊ ⊹
my thoughts┊ahh i can’t believe it’s over! this series has been a staple for me since i first discovered it last year. it’s such a unique premise and adds a really fun element to romance!
i’ve loved every installment, and this final book is no different. anna and mack’s story has been in the works since the very beginning, and it feels so right ending the series with their story. this was everything i wanted from it and more!
i’ve loved both anna and mack as characters from their cameos in the previous books, and i really enjoyed getting to learn more about them. they’re so perfect for each other and i love how complex their relationship has been, and yet they still managed to get their happily ever after.
cannot wait for this to come out so i can add it to my collection! i remember reading that there might potentially be a spin off series, and i reaaaaaally hope it involves logan’s character 👀 i was very intrigued by him and i’d kill to read anything set in this world again!
huge thank you to netgalley and victory editing netgalley co-op for providing me with an arc in exchange for an honest review!
my thoughts┊ahh i can’t believe it’s over! this series has been a staple for me since i first discovered it last year. it’s such a unique premise and adds a really fun element to romance!
i’ve loved every installment, and this final book is no different. anna and mack’s story has been in the works since the very beginning, and it feels so right ending the series with their story. this was everything i wanted from it and more!
i’ve loved both anna and mack as characters from their cameos in the previous books, and i really enjoyed getting to learn more about them. they’re so perfect for each other and i love how complex their relationship has been, and yet they still managed to get their happily ever after.
cannot wait for this to come out so i can add it to my collection! i remember reading that there might potentially be a spin off series, and i reaaaaaally hope it involves logan’s character 👀 i was very intrigued by him and i’d kill to read anything set in this world again!
huge thank you to netgalley and victory editing netgalley co-op for providing me with an arc in exchange for an honest review!
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