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Afterglow Rising Trilogy #1
Afterglow Rising from the Ashes
They came without warning, darkening our skies.
For months, we fought to survive as everything we knew and loved was torn away. Then, as abruptly as they arrived, they vanished.
Though the invaders left, the war wasn’t over yet. New terrors emerged from the destruction, threatening all that remained.
Alina could never have predicted the post-apocalyptic nightmare she woke up to. Foggy memories and the question of what had happened to her in the months she lost paled in comparison to the fear of the unknown surrounding her. But at least she wasn’t completely alone.
When she and her companion cross a camp of survivors, their world turns upside down in more ways than one.
Carter braved the invasion from the beginning. After tragedy struck, he was left questioning his purpose— in life, in love, in friendship. He fought for his group to survive, tirelessly pushing to reclaim what pieces of hope remained. And now, he will do anything to keep them safe.
In a world on the brink, alliances will be tested, love will be challenged, and the line between hope and despair will blur. Will they rise above the ashes and forge a new beginning? Or will they be reclaimed by the flames in the afterglow?
For months, we fought to survive as everything we knew and loved was torn away. Then, as abruptly as they arrived, they vanished.
Though the invaders left, the war wasn’t over yet. New terrors emerged from the destruction, threatening all that remained.
Alina could never have predicted the post-apocalyptic nightmare she woke up to. Foggy memories and the question of what had happened to her in the months she lost paled in comparison to the fear of the unknown surrounding her. But at least she wasn’t completely alone.
When she and her companion cross a camp of survivors, their world turns upside down in more ways than one.
Carter braved the invasion from the beginning. After tragedy struck, he was left questioning his purpose— in life, in love, in friendship. He fought for his group to survive, tirelessly pushing to reclaim what pieces of hope remained. And now, he will do anything to keep them safe.
In a world on the brink, alliances will be tested, love will be challenged, and the line between hope and despair will blur. Will they rise above the ashes and forge a new beginning? Or will they be reclaimed by the flames in the afterglow?
- GenresScience Fiction
364 pages, Paperback
First published November 15, 2024
32 people are currently reading
3712 people want to read
About the author
Stacey LP
4 books41 followersStacey LP was born and raised on Long Island in NY, and currently resides in Texas.
After a major plot twist where she lost her full-time job of almost a decade in a mass layoff, Stacey’s friends urged her to pursue her dream of writing a book of her own…and thus, an author was born.
Stacey writes in the sci-fi and fantasy genres, frequently weaving love stories into each plot. When she isn’t writing (or reading), Stacey enjoys spending time with her husband, children, two cats, and goofball of a dog…or going to pop punk shows. #elderemo4ever
Stacey has an MA in English Literature from SUNY New Paltz and is proud (aka relieved) to finally use her degree for more than just a punchline.
You can find Stacey on Instagram, Tik Tok, and Threads at @authorstaceylp
After a major plot twist where she lost her full-time job of almost a decade in a mass layoff, Stacey’s friends urged her to pursue her dream of writing a book of her own…and thus, an author was born.
Stacey writes in the sci-fi and fantasy genres, frequently weaving love stories into each plot. When she isn’t writing (or reading), Stacey enjoys spending time with her husband, children, two cats, and goofball of a dog…or going to pop punk shows. #elderemo4ever
Stacey has an MA in English Literature from SUNY New Paltz and is proud (aka relieved) to finally use her degree for more than just a punchline.
You can find Stacey on Instagram, Tik Tok, and Threads at @authorstaceylp
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
August 26, 2024
Wow this book is absolutely incredible! I had the fortunate opportunity to read an early copy and it is SUCH a good read. I am an avid romantasy reader, and this book took everything I love about the genre then applied it to a post-apocalyptic survival suspense tale. As an Austinite (which is where the book is set) it felt exceptionally real, and it is apparent the author has done her research on Texas geography. I felt like I was suffering right along with the group of survivors in the Texas heat.
There is romance, action, suspense and more unsuspecting plot twists than I can count. The characters are all so lovable - there are tender moments that rip your heart out, and a slow burn romance that will have you cheering for the first kiss. There is very thoughtful representation of the LGBTQ and non binary community, and I truly wish more authors created characters the way Stacey did. If you are on the fence about this, read it! This is planned as a trilogy and I have no doubt this book will be on the bestseller shelf next to our favorite fae and dragon books in no time.
There is romance, action, suspense and more unsuspecting plot twists than I can count. The characters are all so lovable - there are tender moments that rip your heart out, and a slow burn romance that will have you cheering for the first kiss. There is very thoughtful representation of the LGBTQ and non binary community, and I truly wish more authors created characters the way Stacey did. If you are on the fence about this, read it! This is planned as a trilogy and I have no doubt this book will be on the bestseller shelf next to our favorite fae and dragon books in no time.
October 11, 2024
Afterglow: Rising from the Ashes is SO incredible. WHAT did I just read?? I'm usually a fantasy and dark romance reader, and I'm so glad I branched out into dystopian/sci-fi for this read!
These characters are written so well and I love reading an FMC in her 30's. Also the diversity in these characters and the queer rep was *chefs kiss*. I appreciate that even the side characters had their own depth and stories that you want to get to know along with the MC's.
There are LAYERS in this one! I found myself so immersed from the very first chapter following Alina finding her way in this post alien invasion world. I felt the Texas heat and humidity along with her. The description of this post apocalyptic world really had me saying "oh hell nooooo!" 🤯
And the twists these characters came across? Gah, I cannot WAIT to find out more in the next book! That ending has me on the edge of my seat waiting! If you are looking for a book with thrills and a dystopian world, captivating characters and creatures that give you the shivers, you NEED to read Afterglow!!
These characters are written so well and I love reading an FMC in her 30's. Also the diversity in these characters and the queer rep was *chefs kiss*. I appreciate that even the side characters had their own depth and stories that you want to get to know along with the MC's.
There are LAYERS in this one! I found myself so immersed from the very first chapter following Alina finding her way in this post alien invasion world. I felt the Texas heat and humidity along with her. The description of this post apocalyptic world really had me saying "oh hell nooooo!" 🤯
And the twists these characters came across? Gah, I cannot WAIT to find out more in the next book! That ending has me on the edge of my seat waiting! If you are looking for a book with thrills and a dystopian world, captivating characters and creatures that give you the shivers, you NEED to read Afterglow!!
November 15, 2024
I couldn’t put this down! I was drawn in from the first chapter and was screaming by the cliffhanger ending. I knew going into it this was a trilogy so a cliffhanger was bound to happen but the author is diabolical in how she ended it. It’s written with such heart and you’re rooting for everyone to come out alive (except Ben). The love triangle is so sweet and I am firmly #TeamCarter. This story has it all: slow burn romance, murder pigs, hell-creatures, and laughter. My Amazon cart looked like a Prepper’s after I finished reading it and I needed to breathe deeply through a few anxious scenes. Can’t wait for the second installment of Afterglow! 5 stars.
October 16, 2024
I feel like I raced through this story - it moves at a quick pace, and there’s never a dull point. I am a fan of this style, as there is enough description to picture what’s happening, without unnecessary lore slowing it down.
I liked the two viewpoints. I found it a bit tricky to keep track of all the characters at first, but it soon became clear who the important ones are - by the end I feel like they all had definite separate characterisations.
Great story - I’m really looking forward to what happens next!
I liked the two viewpoints. I found it a bit tricky to keep track of all the characters at first, but it soon became clear who the important ones are - by the end I feel like they all had definite separate characterisations.
Great story - I’m really looking forward to what happens next!
November 12, 2024
I don’t usually read sci-fi, but the concept of an alien invasion taking place in our everyday world hooked me. I’ve enjoyed dystopian books before, and this ranks right up there with other world building that I’ve read. The author introduces us to a large cast of survivors, and their experiences as they work together to make it another day feel so real and vivid. The author’s descriptions and action scenes are truly immersive. I was pulled in right away with the nearly instant action.
I loved reading about characters who are 30+ and the diversity of the ensemble cast. I look forward to the rest of the trilogy because not only do I want to spend more time with these characters, I need to know what happens after the cliffhanger in this one! This was a compelling read, and I believe this author has a bright future.
I loved reading about characters who are 30+ and the diversity of the ensemble cast. I look forward to the rest of the trilogy because not only do I want to spend more time with these characters, I need to know what happens after the cliffhanger in this one! This was a compelling read, and I believe this author has a bright future.
May 27, 2025
I feel like I’ve been kidnapped by aliens because what the heck? This book was bloody amazing.
November 25, 2024
Excellent debut novel! I thoroughly enjoyed the story and found it incredibly engaging. I loved the different characters and perspectives! I can’t wait for the next book!
August 28, 2025
Afterglow Rising From the Ashes grabbed me from page one and didn’t let go. The writing pulled me straight into the story’s world, and I found myself fully invested in both the characters and the journey they’re on. The pacing was spot-on; tense and gripping without ever feeling rushed and the emotional stakes kept me turning pages late into the night. A powerful start to the trilogy, I can’t wait to read the next book!
June 19, 2025
If I had to describe this series in just a few sentences to my fellow dystopian lovers, here's how I would start: take the anxiety-inducing mood of The Walking Dead and add more diverse and relatable characters. Swap out the zombie apocalypse for an alien invasion while exploring the contrast of groups in The 100 Series: those who remained in Mount Weather and those who were dropped in suddenly. Add real emotions and a romantic subplot to reveal your next favorite dystopian series.
(for those who haven't seen The Walking Dead or The 100, let me sell you otherwise)
Book one in the Afterglow series sets a phenomenal scene in a post-apocalyptical world. Alina wakes up in a medical facility after aliens have taken over and performed unknown experiments on her and her best friend's brother, Jason. Though his sister, Emma, is nowhere to be found. Navigating the now desolate city she once knew well, the two have nothing but unanswered questions: how long have they been asleep and why can't they remember what happened?
Carter was there when the world was taken over, and he's been living the same nightmare ever since: forced to keep moving and refrain from getting too close to those you might lose. His group of twenty was recently attacked, leaving only eight survivors to carry on and grieve. They must be careful who to trust, as some people they come across are just as dangerous as the creatures that stalk the city. After a brief run-in, Alina and Jason are taken into this blended family to accept and adapt to the new challenges they now face.
The setting of this series is eerily realistic - a world that we're familiar with that has gone to ruin is depicted so well in her writing. There is a constant state of anxiety present that allows you to become completely immersed in the novel. If I had the time, I absolutely would have devoured it in one sitting.
The diversity amongst characters is so naturally written and yet such a large part of what I enjoyed most about this book. It's so very rare in sci-fic/dystopian novels to see diverse representation amongst characters, and I was so thrilled to indulge in it here. From varying pronouns, to same-sex relationships, Stacey LP included those who do not frequently get to relate to words on a page. Not only is this a huge win for this genre, but the amount of detail that went into each character is truly impressive. I found that every minor conversation, glance, or movement is purposeful to both the plot and the character development. Sam and Russell, Dan and Brian, Cap and Michelle each have such strong relationships that promote hope in an otherwise hopeless environment - even the singles have largely impactful interactions that unite the group in ways I never could have imagined.
I found the plot to be so well-structure and fast-paced. The gripping story flows so well and truly captures your attention immediately. The contrast of Alina's pov from just waking up, and Carter's, having survived for so long, gives a great insight to how different everyone's experiences can be. This realization along with the way the characters interact with one another pulls the story together and has you rooting for their survival and success as a unit.
If you needed anything more, there is a love triangle/romance subplot that is so entertaining amidst such an action-packed plot. Brief touches and stolen glances are well placed in the novel, begging to grow into more as the series goes along. I am so looking forward to the second book after ending on a DIABOLICAL cliff hanger. I highly recommend this book, even to those just looking to dabble in the dystopian genre. It's easy to follow while putting your mind to work, looking to put the pieces together. 5 star read FOR SURE
(for those who haven't seen The Walking Dead or The 100, let me sell you otherwise)
Book one in the Afterglow series sets a phenomenal scene in a post-apocalyptical world. Alina wakes up in a medical facility after aliens have taken over and performed unknown experiments on her and her best friend's brother, Jason. Though his sister, Emma, is nowhere to be found. Navigating the now desolate city she once knew well, the two have nothing but unanswered questions: how long have they been asleep and why can't they remember what happened?
Carter was there when the world was taken over, and he's been living the same nightmare ever since: forced to keep moving and refrain from getting too close to those you might lose. His group of twenty was recently attacked, leaving only eight survivors to carry on and grieve. They must be careful who to trust, as some people they come across are just as dangerous as the creatures that stalk the city. After a brief run-in, Alina and Jason are taken into this blended family to accept and adapt to the new challenges they now face.
The setting of this series is eerily realistic - a world that we're familiar with that has gone to ruin is depicted so well in her writing. There is a constant state of anxiety present that allows you to become completely immersed in the novel. If I had the time, I absolutely would have devoured it in one sitting.
The diversity amongst characters is so naturally written and yet such a large part of what I enjoyed most about this book. It's so very rare in sci-fic/dystopian novels to see diverse representation amongst characters, and I was so thrilled to indulge in it here. From varying pronouns, to same-sex relationships, Stacey LP included those who do not frequently get to relate to words on a page. Not only is this a huge win for this genre, but the amount of detail that went into each character is truly impressive. I found that every minor conversation, glance, or movement is purposeful to both the plot and the character development. Sam and Russell, Dan and Brian, Cap and Michelle each have such strong relationships that promote hope in an otherwise hopeless environment - even the singles have largely impactful interactions that unite the group in ways I never could have imagined.
I found the plot to be so well-structure and fast-paced. The gripping story flows so well and truly captures your attention immediately. The contrast of Alina's pov from just waking up, and Carter's, having survived for so long, gives a great insight to how different everyone's experiences can be. This realization along with the way the characters interact with one another pulls the story together and has you rooting for their survival and success as a unit.
If you needed anything more, there is a love triangle/romance subplot that is so entertaining amidst such an action-packed plot. Brief touches and stolen glances are well placed in the novel, begging to grow into more as the series goes along. I am so looking forward to the second book after ending on a DIABOLICAL cliff hanger. I highly recommend this book, even to those just looking to dabble in the dystopian genre. It's easy to follow while putting your mind to work, looking to put the pieces together. 5 star read FOR SURE
December 4, 2024
I don’t typically write reviews, but selfishly I need this book to catch on faster so I can have the rest of the story that much quicker. I feel like I just finished a good tv series and have to wait until the next season. I really enjoyed the parallel perspectives and overall cadence of the book. It’ll be fun to see where the author takes the story after that cliffhanger.
Definitely recommend this book for sci-fi drama lovers.
Definitely recommend this book for sci-fi drama lovers.
March 21, 2025
Full disclosure, I am friends with the author and have read every early/final version of this, so this book holds a special place in my heart. That said, if I had stumbled across it in the wild with no idea who wrote it, I would still absolutely love it and rate it 5 stars.
As a resident of the dumbest timeline, I know I have been thinking a lot about aliens these days, so if you were ever wondering what living in the aftermath of an alien invasion would be like, this book gives an amazing window into what that experience could be - even seemingly mundane tasks in normal life hold a special level of excitement when you're out there just trying to survive.
This book follows two main characters, Carter and Alina, who have had wildly different experiences since the invaders honed in on Austin, TX. One has been out there surviving (not so much thriving) for the better part of the year, while the other wakes up in a horrifying location with little to no recollection of much after the ships first darkened the skies. I love that it picks up right as the alien presence is seemingly abandoning their earthly pursuits, leaving survivors with a whole slew of unanswered questions, most notably, "WTF?" and "What now?" As a reader, I was along for the ride and shared in the unknowns and anxieties of the characters, which ultimately made me feel like I was part of their found family (Stacey if you kill any of them off in the rest of this trilogy, we will be having words).
Ok - but let's talk about the characters for a minute. Not only are our main characters in their thirties (honestly, it is a breath of fresh air to have main characters with fully developed frontal lobes), but Stacey has done an amazing job of including characters from all ages, backgrounds and walks of life. The representation in this book is truly incredible, and really captures how diverse perspectives can come together in a post-apocalyptic setting. While this book only takes place over a few weeks, there is nothing like shared trauma to turn strangers into found family. Since many of the characters are just getting to know one another and building trust, this book is very character focused in the best way possible. There is also a slow burn romance (or more than one?) brewing, and I am on the edge or my seat to see what/who will be endgame. I absolutely love most of the characters (not Ben) and look forward to continuing their stories.
While there is a lot of focus on the characters and how they navigate this new world, it is worth noting this new world is a pretty scary place to be. From murder pigs to hell beasts, not to mention some pretty bad humans, there is never a dull moment. There were so many moments that had me going from laughing out loud to audibly gasping to biting my nails with anxiety. This book leaves off on a major cliffhanger, but luckily we are getting the next one soon!
TLDR: Read this book, you won't be disappointed. And then gear up for the next one. It is so well-written, the characters are amazing, and while the first book is already a wild ride, it's clear it is only going to get even more wild from here.
As a resident of the dumbest timeline, I know I have been thinking a lot about aliens these days, so if you were ever wondering what living in the aftermath of an alien invasion would be like, this book gives an amazing window into what that experience could be - even seemingly mundane tasks in normal life hold a special level of excitement when you're out there just trying to survive.
This book follows two main characters, Carter and Alina, who have had wildly different experiences since the invaders honed in on Austin, TX. One has been out there surviving (not so much thriving) for the better part of the year, while the other wakes up in a horrifying location with little to no recollection of much after the ships first darkened the skies. I love that it picks up right as the alien presence is seemingly abandoning their earthly pursuits, leaving survivors with a whole slew of unanswered questions, most notably, "WTF?" and "What now?" As a reader, I was along for the ride and shared in the unknowns and anxieties of the characters, which ultimately made me feel like I was part of their found family (Stacey if you kill any of them off in the rest of this trilogy, we will be having words).
Ok - but let's talk about the characters for a minute. Not only are our main characters in their thirties (honestly, it is a breath of fresh air to have main characters with fully developed frontal lobes), but Stacey has done an amazing job of including characters from all ages, backgrounds and walks of life. The representation in this book is truly incredible, and really captures how diverse perspectives can come together in a post-apocalyptic setting. While this book only takes place over a few weeks, there is nothing like shared trauma to turn strangers into found family. Since many of the characters are just getting to know one another and building trust, this book is very character focused in the best way possible. There is also a slow burn romance (or more than one?) brewing, and I am on the edge or my seat to see what/who will be endgame. I absolutely love most of the characters (not Ben) and look forward to continuing their stories.
While there is a lot of focus on the characters and how they navigate this new world, it is worth noting this new world is a pretty scary place to be. From murder pigs to hell beasts, not to mention some pretty bad humans, there is never a dull moment. There were so many moments that had me going from laughing out loud to audibly gasping to biting my nails with anxiety. This book leaves off on a major cliffhanger, but luckily we are getting the next one soon!
TLDR: Read this book, you won't be disappointed. And then gear up for the next one. It is so well-written, the characters are amazing, and while the first book is already a wild ride, it's clear it is only going to get even more wild from here.
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November 15, 2024Thank you to Stacey LP for a digital ARC in exchange for my honest review!
Books revolving around alien invasions are a plot I wish I read more of. It's one of my favorite types of movies, but for some reason my science fiction literary picks always happen in space.
Afterglow: Rising From the Ashes is the first book in the trilogy, by debut author Stacey LP. It follows two POVs; Alina and Carter whose experiences of the invasion are vastly different. There's a band of relatable characters I could picture myself attempting to survive with, with the bonus of a majority of them being around my age! The setting felt very close to a zombie apocalypse, where you're waiting for danger around every turn.
I’m be very excited to read the next installment when it's released because the first book ends on a major cliffhanger and I have so many questions that have yet to be answered!
If you enjoy found family, diversity, and aliens (which I hope to see more of in the upcoming books) then look no further.
Books revolving around alien invasions are a plot I wish I read more of. It's one of my favorite types of movies, but for some reason my science fiction literary picks always happen in space.
Afterglow: Rising From the Ashes is the first book in the trilogy, by debut author Stacey LP. It follows two POVs; Alina and Carter whose experiences of the invasion are vastly different. There's a band of relatable characters I could picture myself attempting to survive with, with the bonus of a majority of them being around my age! The setting felt very close to a zombie apocalypse, where you're waiting for danger around every turn.
I’m be very excited to read the next installment when it's released because the first book ends on a major cliffhanger and I have so many questions that have yet to be answered!
If you enjoy found family, diversity, and aliens (which I hope to see more of in the upcoming books) then look no further.
November 21, 2024
The beginning of this book will completely throw you off balance in the best way possible. I found myself getting to the end cliffhanger and wanting the next book right away. Which means yes...the author left you hanging, and I may have been a little mad. The main characters, Alina and Carter, show you two different POV's of how they've experienced the months of invasion on earth. Alina takes a more hopeful approach, and Carter is the complete opposite in that he's more jaded. The construction of this dystopian world was very well thought out and realistic. I could easily picture scenes in my head as I was reading. Afterglow had its hooks in me, and I definitely had a binge read moment with this story, and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. If you're looking for a dystopian book that's about the end of the world by alien invasion; I would highly recommend this book to your TBR!
February 23, 2025
If The Walking Dead was part alien invasion, this would be it.
Love the inclusive characters and reality of age ranges. The cast is encountering some massive events post invasion and the author really dives into the mental toll this takes on the characters.
Having grown up in Austin, I loved the authenticity of location, description of buildings and weather, local food, etc. Even the animal life is accounted for.
Pairing these two things together weaves a very immersive story. It also meant I wanted to throttle the cast on occasion, but that just means there’s feeling involved.
I knew going into this that it’s the first book in a trilogy, so I didn’t throw it when I got to the end, but I need book two right now. Also, Team Carter. The end.
Love the inclusive characters and reality of age ranges. The cast is encountering some massive events post invasion and the author really dives into the mental toll this takes on the characters.
Having grown up in Austin, I loved the authenticity of location, description of buildings and weather, local food, etc. Even the animal life is accounted for.
Pairing these two things together weaves a very immersive story. It also meant I wanted to throttle the cast on occasion, but that just means there’s feeling involved.
I knew going into this that it’s the first book in a trilogy, so I didn’t throw it when I got to the end, but I need book two right now. Also, Team Carter. The end.
October 21, 2024
I’m giving this 4.5 stars.
I absolutely LOVED this book and the way Stacey writes.
I had the honour of receiving this book as an ARC, I applied even though this book wasn’t my usual genre but the plot descriptions I had seen hooked me.
I am sure glad I received it because this book opened up a whole new world for me.
Lee. What a spectacular FMC. I didn’t find her annoying one but she was strong and capable and held her own
Jason - a bit overpowering but he grew on me 😂
Red - exactly what yould expect
Carter - broody, with real life problems. 10/10.
I will be requesting all my bookish friends to give this one a shot.
I absolutely LOVED this book and the way Stacey writes.
I had the honour of receiving this book as an ARC, I applied even though this book wasn’t my usual genre but the plot descriptions I had seen hooked me.
I am sure glad I received it because this book opened up a whole new world for me.
Lee. What a spectacular FMC. I didn’t find her annoying one but she was strong and capable and held her own
Jason - a bit overpowering but he grew on me 😂
Red - exactly what yould expect
Carter - broody, with real life problems. 10/10.
I will be requesting all my bookish friends to give this one a shot.
December 19, 2024
I’m so looking forward to this next book in the Afterglow series! I want to know what happens next with the main characters; I want to know what the Aliens purpose was in coming to earth in the first place! There’s so much I want to know!!
I love that the book launched straight into the plot and that it was so fast paced. It was such an easy read, which are my favorite types of books!
Also, I do know the author personally and can I just say - so well written! The perfect amount of description and wonderfully relatable characters. Stacey, you are so talented! Maybe one day, I’ll be on your level!
I love that the book launched straight into the plot and that it was so fast paced. It was such an easy read, which are my favorite types of books!
Also, I do know the author personally and can I just say - so well written! The perfect amount of description and wonderfully relatable characters. Stacey, you are so talented! Maybe one day, I’ll be on your level!
May 25, 2025
I am going to preface this by saying sci-fi isn't my genre of choice normally. That being said, though, I can still recognize a good book when I read one, and this is definitely a good one! Stacey did a wonderful job at creating a unique post-apocalyptic world and I truly enjoyed this book. I am now wanting to read the next book because she left a major cliffhanger at the end! So I'm now in a waiting game!
But in all honesty, read this book if you like sci-fi/ post-apocalyptic reads with a dash of slow burn!
But in all honesty, read this book if you like sci-fi/ post-apocalyptic reads with a dash of slow burn!
November 15, 2025
4.5/5 stars
OMG, this was such a good book! A post-apocalyptic story with found family and characters you're going to fall in love with! I love both of the narrators as well as every single person in their group. There is so much diversity in the main crew with mental health and LGBTQ+ representation. The bonds between the characters are so strong, and I feel like I've gotten to know them.
I can't wait to read book 2 (and eventually book 3). I enjoyed every single second of my time spent reading this.
OMG, this was such a good book! A post-apocalyptic story with found family and characters you're going to fall in love with! I love both of the narrators as well as every single person in their group. There is so much diversity in the main crew with mental health and LGBTQ+ representation. The bonds between the characters are so strong, and I feel like I've gotten to know them.
I can't wait to read book 2 (and eventually book 3). I enjoyed every single second of my time spent reading this.
November 21, 2024
Couldn’t put it down, and I’m not normally a sci-fi girly! You start out with intrigue right away, and the pacing never leaves you feeling like there’s a dull moment. You find yourself rooting for every character you meet (well, almost 😂). I’m a big fan of slow burn romances, and while this is a slow burn I’m actually glad to see more focus placed on the plot and depth of the characters. But damn, that ending was rude as hell and I need more!!!!
January 23, 2025
Absolutely spellbound by this book. I was hooked from the very beginning. The writing quality is some of the best I've read in a long time. That, paired with expert character development and exciting plot twists and turns, has me champing at the bit for the next book release in this series. Highly recommend to anyone who likes adventure, sci-fi, and just a page turner!
May 21, 2025
This book is immense. No other word for it. I won’t lie I didn’t know what to think going into it as it’s nothing like I’ve read before. But it has great language, great writing great plot even better characters😭 and the ending is the worst!! And by that I mean it has a cliffhanger and I’m dying to know what comes next! Stacey you are the best at post apocalyptic stories!
June 7, 2025
Literally cannot wait for book 2!!!
August 13, 2025
As the title suggests, this is a story of rebuilding. It introduces a cast of characters that are relatable by today’s standards, but most act similarly to one another. The pacing is a bit slow as it focuses more on the character dynamics and finding ways to survive, which may turn some off. It sets up a trilogy that the author seems passionate about (I actually met her at a book fair) and I consider myself intrigued to see what kind of story she cooks up. Though this entry didn’t wow me, it was a decent hook to get me invested enough to see what happens in the next installment.
The main characters are Alina and Carter. We switch between their two perspectives to see different sides to the apocalypse. Alina just woke up in an incubation pod and has no idea what’s going on. She finds her best friend’s brother (Jason) and the two try to make their way out of the city while avoiding eight-legged beasts that want to rip them to shreds. The main aliens left these behind when they departed for an unknown reason, much to the dismay of our protagonists. Carter and his crew have been surviving the invasion for the last eight months. Scrounging for food and water being their most common activities. Alina and Jason collide with Carter and Brian whilst they are making one last trip into the city to gather resources. After cautious attitudes are alleviated, the two groups merge into one. The story here is mainly survival, so there’s not too much action. The character drama is the main crux here and I’m not sure it’s substantial enough to build a series on.
Alina is relatively weak-spirited. She has panic attacks and requires almost constant support to make it through tense situations. Carter is the opposite. He’s strong and doesn’t let the small stuff get to him. His no-nonsense attitude is off-putting at first as he refuses to let people in, but the wall gradually dissolves. The opposition between these two leans into the “enemies to lovers” trope a bit, but never fully commits. I think Carter’s change in attitude makes him too similar to the other characters and he loses what makes him unique. Red is a member of Carter’s group that uses her usefulness as a nurse as a way to not do dangerous work. She knows her worth and works it. She makes some truly terrible choices and I was resentful of her at the start, but she still contributes to the group in a meaningful enough way to get away with it. Jason is the supportive, doormat of a character that you can use and abuse as much as you want. Though he does have bouts of standing up for himself, he’s mostly there to support Alina.Cap is the leader of Carter’s group and Michelle is their girlfriend. Cap is the perfect leader and their “swiss army knife” of abilities make them indispensable. Michelle was a therapist and helps out a bit with counseling, but otherwise isn’t memorable. Brian and Dan are hinted at being romantically involved and their characters aren’t much beyond that. Brian is the person who keeps everything lighthearted, no matter how he’s feeling, so he’s not entirely forgettable. Russel is the jokester character and Sam is the practical one that falls for him. Their relationship does give the group some hope and I liked their interactions overall. The group dynamic is initially interesting, but everyone warms up to one another too quickly. There wasn’t enough conflict to keep it interesting. It might be a stylistic choice as people would most likely set their differences aside in a scenario like this, just to get by, but if the story focuses on the characters and their survival, more disagreements would keep it interesting. Still, I like the cast and want to see what they do next. I just hope there are more dynamic events going forward.
The book focuses on the characters and most of them have their own trauma to work through. Whether it’s feeling hopeless, useless or just downright fearful, the story explores these emotions in depth as the characters experience them. The depictions felt realistic, but I really wanted them to move past it at times. It doesn’t make for a compelling narrative when one of the main characters is always hunkered down and unable to breathe. Alina does draw strength from the group and tries to do some heroic things, but her composure falters so often that she just got on my nerves. Carter was cool until he started placating her as much as Jason. As of finishing this book, I don’t like either of them that much. Luckily Cap, Russell and Sam are great and I hope they’ll make it through to the end.
Afterglow is a story about picking up the pieces and surviving. Its focus on its characters would be welcome had they developed in different ways. By the end, most were of the same mind, which makes sense given the situation they were in, but it was uninteresting. Still, I felt an attachment to this group. Their struggle to survive was raw and the social situations they tackled were complex to represent in the narrative. The author does a great job of being authentic in these areas, which lends to the investment I felt in their survival. The alien involvement was miniscule and the direct threat was mostly resource-based, however, I think the building blocks laid here have some serious potential. Consider this story if you’re interested in a more modern apocalypse that represents humanity at its best and worst simultaneously.
The main characters are Alina and Carter. We switch between their two perspectives to see different sides to the apocalypse. Alina just woke up in an incubation pod and has no idea what’s going on. She finds her best friend’s brother (Jason) and the two try to make their way out of the city while avoiding eight-legged beasts that want to rip them to shreds. The main aliens left these behind when they departed for an unknown reason, much to the dismay of our protagonists. Carter and his crew have been surviving the invasion for the last eight months. Scrounging for food and water being their most common activities. Alina and Jason collide with Carter and Brian whilst they are making one last trip into the city to gather resources. After cautious attitudes are alleviated, the two groups merge into one. The story here is mainly survival, so there’s not too much action. The character drama is the main crux here and I’m not sure it’s substantial enough to build a series on.
Alina is relatively weak-spirited. She has panic attacks and requires almost constant support to make it through tense situations. Carter is the opposite. He’s strong and doesn’t let the small stuff get to him. His no-nonsense attitude is off-putting at first as he refuses to let people in, but the wall gradually dissolves. The opposition between these two leans into the “enemies to lovers” trope a bit, but never fully commits. I think Carter’s change in attitude makes him too similar to the other characters and he loses what makes him unique. Red is a member of Carter’s group that uses her usefulness as a nurse as a way to not do dangerous work. She knows her worth and works it. She makes some truly terrible choices and I was resentful of her at the start, but she still contributes to the group in a meaningful enough way to get away with it. Jason is the supportive, doormat of a character that you can use and abuse as much as you want. Though he does have bouts of standing up for himself, he’s mostly there to support Alina.Cap is the leader of Carter’s group and Michelle is their girlfriend. Cap is the perfect leader and their “swiss army knife” of abilities make them indispensable. Michelle was a therapist and helps out a bit with counseling, but otherwise isn’t memorable. Brian and Dan are hinted at being romantically involved and their characters aren’t much beyond that. Brian is the person who keeps everything lighthearted, no matter how he’s feeling, so he’s not entirely forgettable. Russel is the jokester character and Sam is the practical one that falls for him. Their relationship does give the group some hope and I liked their interactions overall. The group dynamic is initially interesting, but everyone warms up to one another too quickly. There wasn’t enough conflict to keep it interesting. It might be a stylistic choice as people would most likely set their differences aside in a scenario like this, just to get by, but if the story focuses on the characters and their survival, more disagreements would keep it interesting. Still, I like the cast and want to see what they do next. I just hope there are more dynamic events going forward.
The book focuses on the characters and most of them have their own trauma to work through. Whether it’s feeling hopeless, useless or just downright fearful, the story explores these emotions in depth as the characters experience them. The depictions felt realistic, but I really wanted them to move past it at times. It doesn’t make for a compelling narrative when one of the main characters is always hunkered down and unable to breathe. Alina does draw strength from the group and tries to do some heroic things, but her composure falters so often that she just got on my nerves. Carter was cool until he started placating her as much as Jason. As of finishing this book, I don’t like either of them that much. Luckily Cap, Russell and Sam are great and I hope they’ll make it through to the end.
Afterglow is a story about picking up the pieces and surviving. Its focus on its characters would be welcome had they developed in different ways. By the end, most were of the same mind, which makes sense given the situation they were in, but it was uninteresting. Still, I felt an attachment to this group. Their struggle to survive was raw and the social situations they tackled were complex to represent in the narrative. The author does a great job of being authentic in these areas, which lends to the investment I felt in their survival. The alien involvement was miniscule and the direct threat was mostly resource-based, however, I think the building blocks laid here have some serious potential. Consider this story if you’re interested in a more modern apocalypse that represents humanity at its best and worst simultaneously.
October 24, 2025
I’m not typically a sci fi reader, but this is so incredibly well written, I was hooked immediately. I cannot wait to get my hands on the second one and recommend this to everyone I know!
The walking dead vibes, subtle love stories, cliff hanger at the end, you get everything in this book. Action packed without making me feel like I was stressed out reading it! I closed the book not even 2 minutes ago and ran to make this review! Absolutely read this one!
The walking dead vibes, subtle love stories, cliff hanger at the end, you get everything in this book. Action packed without making me feel like I was stressed out reading it! I closed the book not even 2 minutes ago and ran to make this review! Absolutely read this one!
October 26, 2025
omg
So good I absolutely loved this book and can’t wait to dive into book 2! If you love sci fi and apocalypse type books this is the one for you!
So good I absolutely loved this book and can’t wait to dive into book 2! If you love sci fi and apocalypse type books this is the one for you!
October 25, 2024
Disclaimer: I read the beta version, so some changes have been made since I read this; however, I suspect it's only improved.
I absolutely loved this debut novel. The concept and setup is fantastic, an Earth eight months after an alien invasion. Alina wakes up in an abandoned building, unsure of where she is. Meeting up with a few survivors in the building, they make their way out onto the empty streets of Austin. The now departing aliens bomb the city on their way out, leaving only Alina and Jason left from their small group. Seeking a a way out of the city, they run into trouble when they encounter large eight-legged alien hunting beasts. Dodging danger, they blunder into a scavenging party of other humans led by Carter.
Carter is a hard-bitten survivor, jaded by eight months of running and loss. Slow to trust, he grudgingly takes Alina and Jason along as they flee Austin with some supplies.
This tale of a found family of survivors is well-written and captivating. I am thoroughly invested in Alina and Carter's story (dual POV) as well as their small band. The connection between the two is electric--dangerous but so full of potential.
Beyond the scintillating character interactions, there is the lingering mystery of the aliens. Why did they come to Earth? Why did they leave? Why are Alina and Jason marked with glowing blue tattoos which grow brighter based on their emotional state and the presence of the eight-legged hunting beasts.
Engaged in a struggle for survival in a world where civilization has been wiped out, Alina, Carter, and their new-found family must adapt and move to stay alive. Just as important as their efforts to survive is also finding a reason to live. Seriously, I am INVESTED in these characters.
This is phenomenal dystopian sci-fi with budding romance as well. I can't recommend this book enough, and I'm eagerly anticipating the sequel.
I absolutely loved this debut novel. The concept and setup is fantastic, an Earth eight months after an alien invasion. Alina wakes up in an abandoned building, unsure of where she is. Meeting up with a few survivors in the building, they make their way out onto the empty streets of Austin. The now departing aliens bomb the city on their way out, leaving only Alina and Jason left from their small group. Seeking a a way out of the city, they run into trouble when they encounter large eight-legged alien hunting beasts. Dodging danger, they blunder into a scavenging party of other humans led by Carter.
Carter is a hard-bitten survivor, jaded by eight months of running and loss. Slow to trust, he grudgingly takes Alina and Jason along as they flee Austin with some supplies.
This tale of a found family of survivors is well-written and captivating. I am thoroughly invested in Alina and Carter's story (dual POV) as well as their small band. The connection between the two is electric--dangerous but so full of potential.
Beyond the scintillating character interactions, there is the lingering mystery of the aliens. Why did they come to Earth? Why did they leave? Why are Alina and Jason marked with glowing blue tattoos which grow brighter based on their emotional state and the presence of the eight-legged hunting beasts.
Engaged in a struggle for survival in a world where civilization has been wiped out, Alina, Carter, and their new-found family must adapt and move to stay alive. Just as important as their efforts to survive is also finding a reason to live. Seriously, I am INVESTED in these characters.
This is phenomenal dystopian sci-fi with budding romance as well. I can't recommend this book enough, and I'm eagerly anticipating the sequel.
November 22, 2024
Afterglow: Rising From The Ashes by Stacey LP is a gripping and emotional post-apocalyptic tale that takes readers on a high-stakes journey of survival, love, and rediscovery. From the first chapter, the book pulls you into a world left reeling from an alien invasion, only to face new threats that push humanity to its limits.
Alina’s lack of memories and the mystery of her missing months provide an intriguing entry point, while Carter’s relentless determination to protect his group adds a grounded, heroic balance to the story. The dual perspectives give the narrative depth, offering contrasting yet complementary viewpoints that keep the tension high and the characters relatable #TeamCarter.
The pacing is fast and intense, making it impossible to put down. Stacey LP crafts vivid action sequences and emotional beats without overwhelming the reader with unnecessary detail. While it takes some time to get familiar with the supporting cast, by the end, each character stands out with their unique traits, adding richness to the story.
What truly sets Afterglow apart is its blend of heart and terror. Between the sweet slow-burn romance, the laugh-out-loud moments, and the eerie, visceral horror of “murder pigs” and hellish creatures, this book balances genres with finesse. The cliffhanger ending is both maddening and brilliant, leaving you desperate for the next installment in the trilogy.
If you enjoy dystopian fiction with a mix of action, suspense, and romance, Afterglow is a must-read. Stacey LP has delivered a compelling start to a series that promises to be unforgettable.
Alina’s lack of memories and the mystery of her missing months provide an intriguing entry point, while Carter’s relentless determination to protect his group adds a grounded, heroic balance to the story. The dual perspectives give the narrative depth, offering contrasting yet complementary viewpoints that keep the tension high and the characters relatable #TeamCarter.
The pacing is fast and intense, making it impossible to put down. Stacey LP crafts vivid action sequences and emotional beats without overwhelming the reader with unnecessary detail. While it takes some time to get familiar with the supporting cast, by the end, each character stands out with their unique traits, adding richness to the story.
What truly sets Afterglow apart is its blend of heart and terror. Between the sweet slow-burn romance, the laugh-out-loud moments, and the eerie, visceral horror of “murder pigs” and hellish creatures, this book balances genres with finesse. The cliffhanger ending is both maddening and brilliant, leaving you desperate for the next installment in the trilogy.
If you enjoy dystopian fiction with a mix of action, suspense, and romance, Afterglow is a must-read. Stacey LP has delivered a compelling start to a series that promises to be unforgettable.
September 10, 2024
I was lucky enough to get to read the Beta version of this book in advance of it's release.
Full disclosure, I AM friends with the author. Additional disclosure, even if I wasn't friends with her, I would have STILL been a screaming mess of a puddle at the end of this book.
You guys. Just...OMG. It's...sweet. It's terrifying. It makes your heart beat out of your chest and then soothes you with emotional maturity and found family vibes that are phenomenal. These characters are REAL people, they exist, they are three-dimensional.
Stacey's ability to describe the settings in her book, both the emotional and physical landscapes, is stunning. It grips you, yanks you into the post-invasion world in which the story resides, and doesn't let you out for the entirety of the book.
I saved the last thirty pages of this book for a good 12 hours, because I wasn't READY for it to be over.
In short, Stacey knocked my socks off with this one and I cannot WAIT to read the rest. There isn't a whole lot that I could say without giving spoilers, so you just get this random ramble of all of my absolute FANGIRL energy. Stick around, kids, this author is one to watch.
Full disclosure, I AM friends with the author. Additional disclosure, even if I wasn't friends with her, I would have STILL been a screaming mess of a puddle at the end of this book.
You guys. Just...OMG. It's...sweet. It's terrifying. It makes your heart beat out of your chest and then soothes you with emotional maturity and found family vibes that are phenomenal. These characters are REAL people, they exist, they are three-dimensional.
Stacey's ability to describe the settings in her book, both the emotional and physical landscapes, is stunning. It grips you, yanks you into the post-invasion world in which the story resides, and doesn't let you out for the entirety of the book.
I saved the last thirty pages of this book for a good 12 hours, because I wasn't READY for it to be over.
In short, Stacey knocked my socks off with this one and I cannot WAIT to read the rest. There isn't a whole lot that I could say without giving spoilers, so you just get this random ramble of all of my absolute FANGIRL energy. Stick around, kids, this author is one to watch.
November 20, 2025
Her world-building? Incredible. Her writing style - out of this world. The way Stacey works with words and tells her story had me taking notes. Sci-fi is a hard genre for me to really fall in love with (entirely my personal preference, no knock against the genre), but Stacey infused humanity and human connection into Alina, Cap, and the whole crew. It had me really appreciating a genre I can't usually connect with.
Readers who appreciate a heterosexual love triangle mixed in with an amazing post-apocalyptic/alien Sci Fi premise have to give Stacey's series a read.
Readers who appreciate a heterosexual love triangle mixed in with an amazing post-apocalyptic/alien Sci Fi premise have to give Stacey's series a read.
November 15, 2024
I received an advanced reader copy of this book. I read it in one sitting, I couldn't put it down!
This book is romantasy meets sci fi with a modern day alien invasion. A great mix of fast paced plot, thoughtful character development, and genuine sweetness, I can't wait for book two!
I'm so appreciative for a female lead in her 30s, can I just say?! Thank you, Stacey!
This book is romantasy meets sci fi with a modern day alien invasion. A great mix of fast paced plot, thoughtful character development, and genuine sweetness, I can't wait for book two!
I'm so appreciative for a female lead in her 30s, can I just say?! Thank you, Stacey!
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