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Find Her: A Post-Apocalyptic Romance Novel
An unlikely savior searching for an angel in the midst of Hell...
As a convict serving a life sentence, I shouldn't be playing the hero to the prison warden's damsel-in-distress daughter. But with ninety-nine percent of the population projected to die from a rapidly-spreading virus and society falling into chaos, the desperate, dying father’s options are limited. And since I'm immune to the virus, he puts his daughter's life in my hands with one simple directive: Find her.
I only know the warden's daughter from a photograph, but she glows like she was Heaven-sent. Protecting her gives me purpose in this godforsaken world where a sinister and uncannily-organized faction is rising from the rubble—taking control in a lawless land and rounding up the few survivors. When I finally find her, will the young woman with the innocent smile and ocean-blue eyes still shine from within? Or will the spiraling darkness snuff out her light for good?
FIND HER is a standalone, steamy apocalyptic romance novel with a 31-year-old hero and a 19-year-old heroine. Guaranteed happily-ever-after.
____________
Author’s note: This book contains dark themes and is intended for mature readers. Content warnings for on-page sexual assault, violence, swearing, and explicit consensual sex scenes.
As a convict serving a life sentence, I shouldn't be playing the hero to the prison warden's damsel-in-distress daughter. But with ninety-nine percent of the population projected to die from a rapidly-spreading virus and society falling into chaos, the desperate, dying father’s options are limited. And since I'm immune to the virus, he puts his daughter's life in my hands with one simple directive: Find her.
I only know the warden's daughter from a photograph, but she glows like she was Heaven-sent. Protecting her gives me purpose in this godforsaken world where a sinister and uncannily-organized faction is rising from the rubble—taking control in a lawless land and rounding up the few survivors. When I finally find her, will the young woman with the innocent smile and ocean-blue eyes still shine from within? Or will the spiraling darkness snuff out her light for good?
FIND HER is a standalone, steamy apocalyptic romance novel with a 31-year-old hero and a 19-year-old heroine. Guaranteed happily-ever-after.
____________
Author’s note: This book contains dark themes and is intended for mature readers. Content warnings for on-page sexual assault, violence, swearing, and explicit consensual sex scenes.
300 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 26, 2025
240 people are currently reading
221 people want to read
About the author
Jessie Ellis
12 books18 followersJessie Ellis is a romance author who lives in a tiny French village with her husband and three children, surrounded by woods, rivers, and farmland.
She's always loved reading thrillers, horror, and romance, thanks to sneaking books from her parents' shelves when she was too young to be reading them. Now she can't help but combine elements of those genres into the dark, gritty, and emotional tales she pens... always with a happily ever after.
She's always loved reading thrillers, horror, and romance, thanks to sneaking books from her parents' shelves when she was too young to be reading them. Now she can't help but combine elements of those genres into the dark, gritty, and emotional tales she pens... always with a happily ever after.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
June 5, 2025
Wow. This book is not recommended reading right before falling asleep like I did. Ooops! However, it is very good and a plausible dystopian plot, which sadly, seems more believable in these trying times where megalomaniacs seem to get their way.
The world building is excellent and Lucas was so lovable and easy to sympathize with. I also admired Rosie’s strength and perseverance. What happened to her was absolutely horrible but somehow her character became stronger throughout the book. I would consider this a very dark read. I’m not sure Rosie was actually sane toward the end, but most people wouldn’t be. Her heroine complex got on my nerves at the end where she had to set out and endanger them.
The romance was good, but it wasn’t the most captivating part of the story for me, hence the 4 stars. It was definitely overshadowed by the trauma. I didn’t find their relationship sexy, given the trauma she’d been through with her rape at the beginning of the book and how it continued to influence their sexual interactions. I do feel adequate TW’s were not given, given the on page gang rape.
Excellent book though!
The world building is excellent and Lucas was so lovable and easy to sympathize with. I also admired Rosie’s strength and perseverance. What happened to her was absolutely horrible but somehow her character became stronger throughout the book. I would consider this a very dark read. I’m not sure Rosie was actually sane toward the end, but most people wouldn’t be. Her heroine complex got on my nerves at the end where she had to set out and endanger them.
The romance was good, but it wasn’t the most captivating part of the story for me, hence the 4 stars. It was definitely overshadowed by the trauma. I didn’t find their relationship sexy, given the trauma she’d been through with her rape at the beginning of the book and how it continued to influence their sexual interactions. I do feel adequate TW’s were not given, given the on page gang rape.
Excellent book though!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 30, 2025
3 Stars
Quick Opinion: This was enjoyable for what it was. It has graphic rape, which I think is something that needs to be said. It also has some crazy post-apocalyptic stuff and conspiracies, which I actually enjoyed. I just feel like it wasn't as fleshed out as I would've hoped. I also felt like the conflict solution was a little too easy and too close to the end to be satisfactory. There was mega instalove going on and the sex was slow build, especially with some weird time jumps thrown in. I'd say this is probably not safe for my safety gang peeps (he's also mid 30s and shes 19), but tbh the stuff that happened felt a little necessary to set the post-apocalyptic scene.
Quick Opinion: This was enjoyable for what it was. It has graphic rape, which I think is something that needs to be said. It also has some crazy post-apocalyptic stuff and conspiracies, which I actually enjoyed. I just feel like it wasn't as fleshed out as I would've hoped. I also felt like the conflict solution was a little too easy and too close to the end to be satisfactory. There was mega instalove going on and the sex was slow build, especially with some weird time jumps thrown in. I'd say this is probably not safe for my safety gang peeps (he's also mid 30s and shes 19), but tbh the stuff that happened felt a little necessary to set the post-apocalyptic scene.
March 3, 2025
Find Her by Jessie Ellis opens in a prison setting with Luke trapped in his cell revealing details about his life including his platoon, mention of a worldwide pandemic that has already killed most, and even his deceased 7-year-old daughter. The author does a clever job of providing these backstory details without too much ado so that the reader is immediately immersed in the story of this incarcerated Marine. And what a sizzling story it is.
In the midst of this ravaging sickness, the dying warden asks Luke to find his daughter, Rosie, and gives him the tools to escape and do so. Because Luke has proven himself to other prisoners not to be a rat, he earned the name Saint Luke, but his thoughts about the warden’s daughter (based on a photograph he is given) is decidedly devilish in his wanting of the beautiful girl. What transpires is a new take on the bad boy romance trope. Ellis warns readers about triggers in this novel. (Take note of them in the description, if you have concerns.) I think the writing and story could have stood on its own without them. Romance readers will fall for the ex-con Marine with a tender heart.
In the midst of this ravaging sickness, the dying warden asks Luke to find his daughter, Rosie, and gives him the tools to escape and do so. Because Luke has proven himself to other prisoners not to be a rat, he earned the name Saint Luke, but his thoughts about the warden’s daughter (based on a photograph he is given) is decidedly devilish in his wanting of the beautiful girl. What transpires is a new take on the bad boy romance trope. Ellis warns readers about triggers in this novel. (Take note of them in the description, if you have concerns.) I think the writing and story could have stood on its own without them. Romance readers will fall for the ex-con Marine with a tender heart.
not-finished
April 2, 2025DNF at 70%
I liked the beginning of this story, even though that I think a trigger warning is needed. There is an on page rape scene near the beginning. Though its not very graphic, I'm surprised not more reviews mentioned it.
The relationship was pretty insta-love/lust and a bit cheesy. Which was surprising given how dark the world is. I found myself skimming at parts and getting pretty bored with it. I thought the story was a bit pandering to her character. I get it, she is tough and brave...noted.
This was a very controlled apocalyptic event that was difficult to follow. There were a few details that the characters conveniently remembered or knew. I know that this is fiction and doesn't have to be believable, but still I found myself rolling my eyes.
I liked the beginning of this story, even though that I think a trigger warning is needed. There is an on page rape scene near the beginning. Though its not very graphic, I'm surprised not more reviews mentioned it.
The relationship was pretty insta-love/lust and a bit cheesy. Which was surprising given how dark the world is. I found myself skimming at parts and getting pretty bored with it. I thought the story was a bit pandering to her character. I get it, she is tough and brave...noted.
This was a very controlled apocalyptic event that was difficult to follow. There were a few details that the characters conveniently remembered or knew. I know that this is fiction and doesn't have to be believable, but still I found myself rolling my eyes.
April 13, 2025
DNF 42% there's no chemistry or personality, little plot, not engaging
November 11, 2025
These characters are soaking in trauma. This is a BRUTAL post apocalyptic world where very unlikely characters end up being their own army of two against a world ravaged by an unknown virus. This book is definitely not for the faint of heart. I found the characters to be very likeable. I thought the insta-love was a bit too insta, but i did enjoy their relationship. Lucas is EXTREMELY protective and though he was lusting over Rosie before they even met after seeing a photo of her, he put a leash on his affections immediately because it wasn't what she needed. Rosie is a young woman who has never been protected or coveted in her life and just when she needs a protector most, he appears and it's so heartbreaking and beautiful. i thought her character was very believable as she dealt with her personal demons, one after another.
their physical dynamic made a lot of sense as well. As someone who has dealt with severe depression, i couldn't help but feel for Rosie in her moments of weakness. These characters desperately needed each other in a world that quite literally fell apart. If you can stomach some very dark instances i.e. r*pe, m*rder, etc. then this is a great read. I deducted a star PURELY because i am not a fan of spanking, no matter the circumstance, even if it did actually make sense in this scenario. And also things moved a little too quick in the beginning for me between the MCs in terms of their feelings.
their physical dynamic made a lot of sense as well. As someone who has dealt with severe depression, i couldn't help but feel for Rosie in her moments of weakness. These characters desperately needed each other in a world that quite literally fell apart. If you can stomach some very dark instances i.e. r*pe, m*rder, etc. then this is a great read. I deducted a star PURELY because i am not a fan of spanking, no matter the circumstance, even if it did actually make sense in this scenario. And also things moved a little too quick in the beginning for me between the MCs in terms of their feelings.
April 20, 2025
Absolutely fabulous! Luke is perfect and Rosie is such a badass! This made all of my post-apocalyptic dreams come true!
May 9, 2025
I picked this book out based on the description. I thought it sounded exciting. I was immediately hook on page one. The author did a great job with the prison scene. Through Lucas’s perspective, a dire seen of bad men inside a coming apocalypse was painting. At no point did I feel the need to be patient, waiting for there to be enough development for the story to start. The author got right to it. Then there was Rosie. The author introduces her with the same brilliance in writing. You’re thrown into the person’s day, which looks like a hard day, and the person’s life in introduced within them living one of the more difficult parts of it. This was a very good way to make me want to keep turning the pages. And the characters are both good and bad, like real people. These are the best types of characters because you never know what they’ll do. What these two characters will experience and endure is intense. I don’t typically go for romances, but this one’s not for the Hallmark Chanell. It’s more of a romance with girt. Or maybe it’s more of a science fiction novel with romantic components. Whatever you want to call it, it’s good writing and a spellbinding tale. I recommend it to any adult who likes exciting stories.
March 4, 2025
“Find Her” by Jessie Ellis is a dystopian romance set in a post-apocalyptic world. The writing in this novel is clean, excellent prose built upon good declarative sentences. The work lacks any technical errors and moves along nicely. Although the plot is somewhat limited and, at times, tests believability, readers will still love this story if they buy into the key relationship the story revolves around, that between two virus survivors.
Convicted murderer and ex-Marine Lucas (aka Luke and St. Luke) is the 31-year-old push-up king of his penitentiary, vaccinated and immune to a virus that has decimated the planet. Rather than escape prison scot-free when given the opportunity, he somewhat inexplicably takes up a secret request to “FIND HER” and save the warden’s young daughter, Rosie (aka Babe or Peaches).
And find her he does, almost immediately. Out of an entire post-apocalyptic world, Luke stumbles upon Rosie at a pharmacy, suffering in the aftermath of a gruesome rape scene. Her assailants have already been dispatched in bloody fashion. The two take flight to escape those hunting them, and begin a journey of healing, discovery and relationship-building. Their travel through the dystopian countryside becomes the proxy for a plot.
Those who only demand chemistry from their romantic novels will enjoy this work. But for others, the characters may seem too two-dimensional and cartoony . . . the hero being your over-muscled, heart-of-gold, troubled super tough guy with all the usual macho stereotypical characteristics, haunted by demons of his past. And the fair maiden, while innocent and a victim, quickly develops into a killer.
Their budding sexual relationship fuels this story but often feels inappropriate--Luke is a man approaching middle age and playing role of protector, while Rosie is presented as his innocent ward, not far removed from childhood. A number of the scenes are soft-core porn at best and the rape is unnecessarily detailed, going on and on.
Convicted murderer and ex-Marine Lucas (aka Luke and St. Luke) is the 31-year-old push-up king of his penitentiary, vaccinated and immune to a virus that has decimated the planet. Rather than escape prison scot-free when given the opportunity, he somewhat inexplicably takes up a secret request to “FIND HER” and save the warden’s young daughter, Rosie (aka Babe or Peaches).
And find her he does, almost immediately. Out of an entire post-apocalyptic world, Luke stumbles upon Rosie at a pharmacy, suffering in the aftermath of a gruesome rape scene. Her assailants have already been dispatched in bloody fashion. The two take flight to escape those hunting them, and begin a journey of healing, discovery and relationship-building. Their travel through the dystopian countryside becomes the proxy for a plot.
Those who only demand chemistry from their romantic novels will enjoy this work. But for others, the characters may seem too two-dimensional and cartoony . . . the hero being your over-muscled, heart-of-gold, troubled super tough guy with all the usual macho stereotypical characteristics, haunted by demons of his past. And the fair maiden, while innocent and a victim, quickly develops into a killer.
Their budding sexual relationship fuels this story but often feels inappropriate--Luke is a man approaching middle age and playing role of protector, while Rosie is presented as his innocent ward, not far removed from childhood. A number of the scenes are soft-core porn at best and the rape is unnecessarily detailed, going on and on.
March 4, 2025
I love a good romance where the bad guy has a true heart of gold. And in this dark dystopian romance ex Marine Lucas is just that. He is smart, has a hero's code of morality but is will spill blood if the situation requires it. He's a born protector and he was the best part of the story! Dropped into a word after a man made virus kills pretty much everyone Lucas is in jail for murder. The warden of the jail chooses him to rescue his daughter after the warden figures out that there is no honor among thieves and he's been betrayed. Lucas set out to find Rosie and find a safe place where they can rebuild a life together.
I gave this book 3.5 stars instead of four stars because of one main thing. First the author didn't give a trigger list for the reader and I get that it's listed as a dark romance so I expected the dark elements and if it had been mentioned or a flash point in the story I probably wouldn't have been bothered but it but a central theme in the story was not just the initial forced sex scene (which went for multiple chapters) but the mental recovery aftermath of being attacked in such a way. Rosie even tries to self delete because of mental trauma and I feel like it should have been mentioned.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I gave this book 3.5 stars instead of four stars because of one main thing. First the author didn't give a trigger list for the reader and I get that it's listed as a dark romance so I expected the dark elements and if it had been mentioned or a flash point in the story I probably wouldn't have been bothered but it but a central theme in the story was not just the initial forced sex scene (which went for multiple chapters) but the mental recovery aftermath of being attacked in such a way. Rosie even tries to self delete because of mental trauma and I feel like it should have been mentioned.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
book-not-for-me
April 29, 2025DNF'd April 2025
Jessie Ellis can write well, and chapter one, told from the MMC's perspective, immediately pulled me into this steamy apocalyptic romance.
😰 Unfortunately, I couldn't get past the gang rape that happens shortly after we meet the heroine. The h has asthma and is at a pharmacy struggling to breathe while searching for an inhaler. That's when the men appear and brutally on-page rape her, while she's laying there helplessly. Apparently it's a central part of the story (confirmed after I did a book search on the word "rape"), and one reviewer said the h tries to kill herself later on because of it.
No thanks! This isn't my idea of a good romance.
Jessie Ellis can write well, and chapter one, told from the MMC's perspective, immediately pulled me into this steamy apocalyptic romance.
😰 Unfortunately, I couldn't get past the gang rape that happens shortly after we meet the heroine. The h has asthma and is at a pharmacy struggling to breathe while searching for an inhaler. That's when the men appear and brutally on-page rape her, while she's laying there helplessly. Apparently it's a central part of the story (confirmed after I did a book search on the word "rape"), and one reviewer said the h tries to kill herself later on because of it.
No thanks! This isn't my idea of a good romance.
May 21, 2025
I hated the relationship between the MMC and the FMC, I felt like he treated her like a child at times. Also after a while it got extremely repetitive and boring.
July 13, 2025
Not bad, not great. But the entire climax of the book happened in about 4 pages. It was so fast and it felt like the author just kind of gave up at that point.
March 15, 2025
A gritty, heart-stopping post-apocalyptic romance!
What if you could find your salvation during an apocalypse?
A virus has wiped out most of humanity, leaving the world in ruins. Rosie is one of the rare survivors, and she is waiting for Luke, a convicted criminal, who has been tasked with finding her. There much more to it… but I won’t spoil it!
This book wrecked me in the best way, I couldn’t put it down, it gripped me in the first chapter and I just read straight through!
Both Rosie and Luke are complex and layered characters who rely on each other in a literal end of days situation. I love Rosie’s resolve and determination to do what’s right, but also show her flaws. I loved Luke and their dynamic. I love an age gap so I also loved that!!
Really recommended as something a bit different from the norm, check triggers for this one!
Kinda handmaids tale meets the last of us but without zombies? So good!!
This was an arc from booksprout and this is my honest review.
What if you could find your salvation during an apocalypse?
A virus has wiped out most of humanity, leaving the world in ruins. Rosie is one of the rare survivors, and she is waiting for Luke, a convicted criminal, who has been tasked with finding her. There much more to it… but I won’t spoil it!
This book wrecked me in the best way, I couldn’t put it down, it gripped me in the first chapter and I just read straight through!
Both Rosie and Luke are complex and layered characters who rely on each other in a literal end of days situation. I love Rosie’s resolve and determination to do what’s right, but also show her flaws. I loved Luke and their dynamic. I love an age gap so I also loved that!!
Really recommended as something a bit different from the norm, check triggers for this one!
Kinda handmaids tale meets the last of us but without zombies? So good!!
This was an arc from booksprout and this is my honest review.
March 7, 2025
As most of the world's population is dropping from a pandemic simply named the Fever, Luke seems to be immune along with the rest of the prison population. With his history as a Marine along with his prison nickname Saint Luke, the dying warden entrusts him with the mission to save his daughter leaving him only a photograph and the tools to escape.
Right before he passed, Rosie's father told her there was a man he trusted coming to protect her. But out of her life saving medicine, she's forced out on her own in search of a pharmacy when a bad group tasked with finding up survivors finds her and she's attacked. After what she's been through, another stranger showing up should have scared her, but something about Luke has her afraid to let him out of her sight. Maybe they can help each other survive in this new world.
The details in this story are terrifyingly believable these days and had me on the edge of my seat wondering how they'd survive. There's an age gap between Luke and Rosie, but at the end of the world does it really matter? It was a little more instalove than I prefer, but I love how Luke helped her recover mentally from her trauma and guilt and how protective she was of him also. The characters are well written and realistic, the plot was action packed, and all the loose ends were tied up well by the HEA at the end.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Right before he passed, Rosie's father told her there was a man he trusted coming to protect her. But out of her life saving medicine, she's forced out on her own in search of a pharmacy when a bad group tasked with finding up survivors finds her and she's attacked. After what she's been through, another stranger showing up should have scared her, but something about Luke has her afraid to let him out of her sight. Maybe they can help each other survive in this new world.
The details in this story are terrifyingly believable these days and had me on the edge of my seat wondering how they'd survive. There's an age gap between Luke and Rosie, but at the end of the world does it really matter? It was a little more instalove than I prefer, but I love how Luke helped her recover mentally from her trauma and guilt and how protective she was of him also. The characters are well written and realistic, the plot was action packed, and all the loose ends were tied up well by the HEA at the end.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 16, 2025
The instalove and abrupt ending majorly detracted from my enjoyment.
In addition, I did not feel like the on page rape scene was necessary, especially without a content warning. Both of the main characters already had major traumas in their backgrounds, so it wasn't necessary to add this type of trauma to it, and rape as a plot point for plots sake is lazy writing in my opinion.
In addition, I did not feel like the on page rape scene was necessary, especially without a content warning. Both of the main characters already had major traumas in their backgrounds, so it wasn't necessary to add this type of trauma to it, and rape as a plot point for plots sake is lazy writing in my opinion.
September 20, 2025
’Él me protege. Y destrozaría el mundo para lograrlo.’
•Mi opinión puede contener Spoilers.
•Esta destinada a ser un descargo personal no para que alguien más lea pero si lo haces y te ofende, me disculpo porque sé lo que es que te guste un libro y otros lo critiquen.
Find her de Jessie Ellis
Argumento:
Un salvador improbable que busca un ángel en medio del infierno...
Como convicto que cumple cadena perpetua, no debería hacerme el héroe de la hija en apuros del director de la prisión. Pero con la proyección de que el 99% de la población morirá a causa de un virus que se propaga rápidamente y la sociedad sumida en el caos, las opciones del padre desesperado y moribundo son limitadas. Y como soy inmune al virus, pone la vida de su hija en mis manos con una simple orden: Encuéntrala.
Solo conozco a la hija del alcaide por una fotografía, pero brilla como un regalo del cielo. Protegerla me da un propósito en este mundo olvidado de Dios, donde una facción siniestra y misteriosamente organizada surge de entre los escombros, tomando el control de una tierra sin ley y acorralando a los pocos supervivientes. Cuando por fin la encuentre, ¿seguirá brillando en su interior la joven de sonrisa inocente y ojos azul océano? ¿O la espiral de oscuridad apagará su luz para siempre?
Mi humilde opinión:
Romance postapocalíptico, durante un virus, atracción instantánea, diferencia de edad, ex marine, proximidad forzada.
Me intrigaba la historia, un virus liberado por un arma biológica, el grupo organizado con retorcidos planes de un mundo nuevo y dos protagonistas rotos siendo cazado por ellos. Esperaba acción, develar las intrigas y por supuesto un romance con steamy.
Lucas y Rosie son los protagonistas, él un ex marine cumpliendo condena por asesinar al hombre que mató a su pequeña hija y ella una estudiante universitaria, hija del director de la prisión.
Después de que la facción para la que trabajaba lo traicionó, el director de la prisión le pide a Lucas que encuentre a su hija y la proteja de ellos. Lucas mira la chica de la foto y de inmediato esta enamorado, deslumbrado por su inocencia y belleza, no duda en aceptar la misión. Bueno, hasta aquí estaba expectante por como iría todo, no me importa lo insta en mis romances, pero entonces llegó la parte brutal... El abuso físico me tomó por sorpresa porque pensé que Lucas iba a llegar a tiempo para rescatar a Rosie pero no lo hizo. No tuve estómago para leer toda esa parte hasta el final así que tuve que pasarlo y le restó puntos a la historia de mi parte.
Si bien Rosie encuentra el amor y su hogar en Lucas, la pasa muy mal durante casi todo el libro pero a la vez se hace fuerte por las experiencias que vivió. Lo único que me hizo ruido es que superara los traumas de forma tan rápida y en tan poco tiempo. No entiendo como podía seguir cuerda después del infierno que vivió!
En cuanto a Sherwood y su grupo de sádicos fanáticos llamados Scythes, me pareció increíble que lograra lo que se propuso con el virus, que además dijera que lo hizo para divertirse, sentirse como un rey? era bastante loca toda la explicación que le dio a Rosie. Si todos los hombres de ese grupo fueron elegidos porque eran psicópatas y violadores, cómo algunas de las mujeres secuestradas podían decir que había buenos hombres allí? wtf! Si seguían a Sherwood no eran buenos hombres! Y qué pasó con todos ellos después? Me quedaron vacíos en la historia.
Esta no fue una lectura enteramente agradable para mi por algunas cosas que suceden, tenia oscuridad, violencia y personajes sufridos pero todo termina con un buen final para Rosie y Lucas.
March 7, 2025
In a world ravaged by a deadly virus that has wiped out most of the population, a few scattered survivors cling to life. While it's almost impossible to avoid clichés in this genre, this novel still manages to deliver plenty of fresh twists and pleasant surprises. Enter Lucas—our morally complex main character—serving time for murder. With a nickname like Saint Luke, you might assume he’s destined to play the knight in shining armor, but the truth is far more intriguing. Tasked with finding and protecting the warden's daughter, Lucas sets out with little to lose. However, when he finally discovers Rosie, she has already saved herself—and it certainly won’t be the last time. Rosie’s character is a masterclass in contrasts. She’s tough, resourceful, and willing to do whatever it takes to survive. Yet beneath that hardened exterior, she’s drowning in guilt for the lives she’s taken. This inner conflict adds incredible depth, exploring the essence of what makes us human. Unfortunately, in this brutal new world, humanity has been thrown out the window, and it’s every man for himself—or so it seems. One thing I particularly appreciated was the subversion of a common dystopian trope: women as perpetual victims. While danger looms large, Rosie is no damsel in distress. Thankfully, she has Lucas by her side, a man fiercely determined to keep her safe. Their evolving bond is portrayed beautifully through alternating points of view, which not only enriches the story but also offers glimpses into their painful pasts. Despite everything Rosie has endured, I loved how quickly she learned to trust Lucas and how that trust was not misplaced. For a nineteen-year-old, her resilience and maturity are nothing short of remarkable. Their two months of relative peace in an isolated cabin feel like a breath of fresh air—a calm before the inevitable storm. But with a shadowy organization lurking in the background, it’s clear this fragile peace can’t last. In the end, this novel shines a spotlight on the best and worst of humanity—the courage to trust, the will to survive, and the darkness that can emerge when society falls apart. Let’s just hope we never have to find out how accurate this portrayal really is.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 27, 2025
What if you were one of the only people left alive—but you never wanted to be?
In Find Her, Jessie Ellis delivers a raw, emotional, and fast-paced dystopian romance that grips you from the first page. A unique twist on the post-apocalyptic virus trope, this book follows two survivors—one a convicted ex-Marine with nothing left to lose, the other a sheltered but fiercely capable young woman raised for the end of the world—as they fight to stay alive in a shattered world.
Unlike typical dystopian books where survivors have natural immunity, Find Her introduces a darker premise—a vaccine administered before the virus is released, to only a certain few —the “chosen few”. The alternating points of view between Lucas and Rosie beckon you deep into their desperate struggle for survival, forcing them to face both external dangers and their own painful pasts.
Fans of protective heroes and slow-burn, high-stakes romance will fall hard for Luke. A former Marine turned prisoner, he has endured his own personal hell. But when he sees Rosie’s picture with the words “FIND HER” written on the back, his fierce sense of justice and purpose is reignited. He is determined to find her and protect her initially then he helps her heal from the traumas she’s suffered since the world fell apart and before he reached her.
Rosie, despite being raised in harsh survivalist conditions by her father, still has a tender heart and quiet strength. Struggling with trauma and identity in a broken world, she must learn to trust again—especially in Luke, who becomes her fiercest protector.
Final Verdict
If you love dystopian romance with high stakes, deep emotional growth, and a fiercely protective hero, Find Her is a must-read. Jessie Ellis has crafted an intense and heart-wrenching story that blends action, romance, and survival into an unforgettable experience.
🔥 Highly recommended for fans of fast-paced, end-of-the-world love stories. Grab your copy now!
Content Warnings
This book contains on-page depictions of rape and self-defense killing, as well as discussions of murder. While these elements are handled with gravity and respect, sensitive readers should be aware.
In Find Her, Jessie Ellis delivers a raw, emotional, and fast-paced dystopian romance that grips you from the first page. A unique twist on the post-apocalyptic virus trope, this book follows two survivors—one a convicted ex-Marine with nothing left to lose, the other a sheltered but fiercely capable young woman raised for the end of the world—as they fight to stay alive in a shattered world.
Unlike typical dystopian books where survivors have natural immunity, Find Her introduces a darker premise—a vaccine administered before the virus is released, to only a certain few —the “chosen few”. The alternating points of view between Lucas and Rosie beckon you deep into their desperate struggle for survival, forcing them to face both external dangers and their own painful pasts.
Fans of protective heroes and slow-burn, high-stakes romance will fall hard for Luke. A former Marine turned prisoner, he has endured his own personal hell. But when he sees Rosie’s picture with the words “FIND HER” written on the back, his fierce sense of justice and purpose is reignited. He is determined to find her and protect her initially then he helps her heal from the traumas she’s suffered since the world fell apart and before he reached her.
Rosie, despite being raised in harsh survivalist conditions by her father, still has a tender heart and quiet strength. Struggling with trauma and identity in a broken world, she must learn to trust again—especially in Luke, who becomes her fiercest protector.
Final Verdict
If you love dystopian romance with high stakes, deep emotional growth, and a fiercely protective hero, Find Her is a must-read. Jessie Ellis has crafted an intense and heart-wrenching story that blends action, romance, and survival into an unforgettable experience.
🔥 Highly recommended for fans of fast-paced, end-of-the-world love stories. Grab your copy now!
Content Warnings
This book contains on-page depictions of rape and self-defense killing, as well as discussions of murder. While these elements are handled with gravity and respect, sensitive readers should be aware.
March 6, 2025
I found this book to be an enjoyable and engaging read. It’s a post-apocalyptic romance that follows Luke, an ex-Marine turned prisoner, who is given a mission by the prison warden: find his missing daughter, Rosie, after a deadly virus wipes out most of humanity.
Unlike other dystopian novels, this one has a unique virus angle. The pre-outbreak vaccine was given to only a handful, which made things really interesting.
Luke is a classic protective hero with a troubled past, still grieving the loss of his young daughter. Rosie, on the other hand, has been shaped by her survivalist father’s harsh upbringing but still manages to maintain her inner strength. The other prisoners call Luke Saint Luke, though his thoughts about Rosie when he first sees her photo are far from saintly.
Their chemistry is immediate and intense, which might feel a bit too fast-paced for readers who prefer slow-burn romances. However, their bond develops emotionally as well, with Luke helping Rosie heal from past trauma while rediscovering his own sense of purpose.
It’s worth noting that the book deals with heavy themes, including sexual assault, murder, and child loss, so it may be triggering for some readers. The author handles these topics sensitively, but they are present throughout the story.
While I expected more action, the focus on character development worked well. If you enjoy dark, emotional romances with strong leads, this one is worth checking out.
Unlike other dystopian novels, this one has a unique virus angle. The pre-outbreak vaccine was given to only a handful, which made things really interesting.
Luke is a classic protective hero with a troubled past, still grieving the loss of his young daughter. Rosie, on the other hand, has been shaped by her survivalist father’s harsh upbringing but still manages to maintain her inner strength. The other prisoners call Luke Saint Luke, though his thoughts about Rosie when he first sees her photo are far from saintly.
Their chemistry is immediate and intense, which might feel a bit too fast-paced for readers who prefer slow-burn romances. However, their bond develops emotionally as well, with Luke helping Rosie heal from past trauma while rediscovering his own sense of purpose.
It’s worth noting that the book deals with heavy themes, including sexual assault, murder, and child loss, so it may be triggering for some readers. The author handles these topics sensitively, but they are present throughout the story.
While I expected more action, the focus on character development worked well. If you enjoy dark, emotional romances with strong leads, this one is worth checking out.
February 26, 2025
I was immediately captivated by Find Her, a post-apocalyptic romance that is powerful, dramatic, and completely captivating. In the story, a seasoned prisoner is suddenly assigned to the job of protector and given the responsibility of locating and defending the warden's daughter in a world that is disintegrating. In addition to the harsh surroundings and vicious groups, the slow-burning chemistry between the main characters also contributes to the drama. A captivating dynamic is created by the contrast between the heroine's inner brightness and the hero's rugged edges.
The world-building is fascinating, the action scenes are exciting, and the reader is kept interested at every turn by the depth of emotion. The work masterfully examines themes of redemption, hope, and love in the face of destruction despite the setting's gloom. It is impossible to put down the deep, tender, and sultry romance.
Fans of post-apocalyptic romance should not miss Find Her because it strikes the ideal balance between love, suspense, and high stakes. It's honest, compelling, and, in the end, fulfilling, with a well-deserved happily-ever-after. This book is for you if you enjoy stories of love blossoming even in the most difficult circumstances!
The world-building is fascinating, the action scenes are exciting, and the reader is kept interested at every turn by the depth of emotion. The work masterfully examines themes of redemption, hope, and love in the face of destruction despite the setting's gloom. It is impossible to put down the deep, tender, and sultry romance.
Fans of post-apocalyptic romance should not miss Find Her because it strikes the ideal balance between love, suspense, and high stakes. It's honest, compelling, and, in the end, fulfilling, with a well-deserved happily-ever-after. This book is for you if you enjoy stories of love blossoming even in the most difficult circumstances!
March 4, 2025
Find Her is a gripping mix of action, suspense, and raw emotion, set against the backdrop of a crumbling world. Jessie Ellis blends high-stakes survival with a slow-burning romance that feels both intense and deeply personal.
Luke, a former Marine turned convict, isn’t your typical hero, but his journey from prisoner to protector makes him an unforgettable one. Tasked with finding Rosie, the warden’s daughter, he sets out across a lawless landscape where brutality rules and trust is a luxury. Rosie, raised to survive but scarred by the world’s collapse, is no helpless damsel. she’s resilient, resourceful, and fighting to reclaim her own agency. Their dynamic is filled with tension, vulnerability, and an undeniable pull that builds with every page.
The world-building is immersive, painting a bleak but eerily realistic picture of a society teetering on the edge. The action is relentless, and the emotional depth of both protagonists kept me invested beyond just the thrills. While the story doesn’t shy away from dark themes, it never loses sight of hope and redemption.
If you love post-apocalyptic romance with grit, heat, and heart, Find Her is a must read. Jessie Ellis delivers a ride that’s both brutal and beautiful.
Luke, a former Marine turned convict, isn’t your typical hero, but his journey from prisoner to protector makes him an unforgettable one. Tasked with finding Rosie, the warden’s daughter, he sets out across a lawless landscape where brutality rules and trust is a luxury. Rosie, raised to survive but scarred by the world’s collapse, is no helpless damsel. she’s resilient, resourceful, and fighting to reclaim her own agency. Their dynamic is filled with tension, vulnerability, and an undeniable pull that builds with every page.
The world-building is immersive, painting a bleak but eerily realistic picture of a society teetering on the edge. The action is relentless, and the emotional depth of both protagonists kept me invested beyond just the thrills. While the story doesn’t shy away from dark themes, it never loses sight of hope and redemption.
If you love post-apocalyptic romance with grit, heat, and heart, Find Her is a must read. Jessie Ellis delivers a ride that’s both brutal and beautiful.
November 21, 2025
When I began this book, I initially had zero expectations but then I gave it the benefit of the doubt and honestly I'm glad I did. Firstly I would like to appreciate the setup and scene painted in the beginning the snow, the gore the way people succumbed to the viral infection, I cried a little when Rosie was assaulted in the first scene but then Rosie was a tough as nails, the girls saved herself more than once, I think I would have enjoyed it more if they were Zombies despite being cliche the zombie ones but it was good either way. Then Lucas meeting Rosie I loved that part of the book too, he was a good guy. The only other qualm I have is I wish there was more action, more fights it was mainly romance and I was looking for a lot of action and survival, overall I enjoyed it. The ending wasn't what I expected I wish there was more rather than a rich billionaires son wanting to control the trajectory of the world. My heart bled up when Abigail and Hudson where introduced. Damn this book hit all the spots it only fell a tad short in the end I wanted more I didn't expect the book to end how it did. Overall, I think I like this author and her style and are willing to give her another chance.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 24, 2025
2.5/3ish stars.
It did have a happy ending which I would have expected if I read the About Me for the author before reading the book.
The book is a dual perspective, with an age gap (31M and 19F). Additionally, if rape, death, murder, a cult-ish society, children death, bothers you at all. Don’t read the book.
It was one of those romances where you just wonder “how did we even get here.” They “loved” each other so much but just how?! Especially since the main character was “in a dark place” for what seemed like most of the story and when she wasn’t she was saving herself or Luke.
About 70% of the way through after just walking away from her home, I wondered where the book was going and what the point really was.
SPOILER BEYOND HERE
I felt it was also odd she all the sudden wanted to go “save” everyone.
I get why they got in a car to drive inside of walk with the kids but I think it was so stupid of them. I don’t think that would have been the decision in real life especially knowing the Scythes were in the area. However, adding the kids and their little back story, along with having them part of the rescue was cute and perfectly placed.
It did have a happy ending which I would have expected if I read the About Me for the author before reading the book.
The book is a dual perspective, with an age gap (31M and 19F). Additionally, if rape, death, murder, a cult-ish society, children death, bothers you at all. Don’t read the book.
It was one of those romances where you just wonder “how did we even get here.” They “loved” each other so much but just how?! Especially since the main character was “in a dark place” for what seemed like most of the story and when she wasn’t she was saving herself or Luke.
About 70% of the way through after just walking away from her home, I wondered where the book was going and what the point really was.
SPOILER BEYOND HERE
I felt it was also odd she all the sudden wanted to go “save” everyone.
I get why they got in a car to drive inside of walk with the kids but I think it was so stupid of them. I don’t think that would have been the decision in real life especially knowing the Scythes were in the area. However, adding the kids and their little back story, along with having them part of the rescue was cute and perfectly placed.
May 29, 2025
Great Read!
This is a really good book! The female-main-character (Rose) is a total bada$$!! The male-main-character (Lucas) is amazing too! You’d think that Lucas would be the one saving her all the time because he’s a marine and a convicted murderer but that’s not the case. He picks up the pieces after she does her thing. There’s nothing “special” about her…she was just forced to learn to live and survive before the apocalypse came so she was ready. All of it was just muscle memory and the will to live.
**spoiler**
When Rose gets in her first predicament I thought “oh here we go Lucas will sweep in and save her just in time” because that’s how most books are…not this book though. I was very pleasantly surprised how the author wrote all the scenes…Rose did what needed done and Lucas put her pieces back together.
If you’re looking for a “spicy” post apocalyptic book, this isn’t it. I think there are two scenes that are a tiny bit spicy but there’s not much to them. This is a true love story.
This is a really good book! The female-main-character (Rose) is a total bada$$!! The male-main-character (Lucas) is amazing too! You’d think that Lucas would be the one saving her all the time because he’s a marine and a convicted murderer but that’s not the case. He picks up the pieces after she does her thing. There’s nothing “special” about her…she was just forced to learn to live and survive before the apocalypse came so she was ready. All of it was just muscle memory and the will to live.
**spoiler**
When Rose gets in her first predicament I thought “oh here we go Lucas will sweep in and save her just in time” because that’s how most books are…not this book though. I was very pleasantly surprised how the author wrote all the scenes…Rose did what needed done and Lucas put her pieces back together.
If you’re looking for a “spicy” post apocalyptic book, this isn’t it. I think there are two scenes that are a tiny bit spicy but there’s not much to them. This is a true love story.
March 3, 2025
“Find Her” is a love story wrapped in a post-apocalyptic world. A virus takes over the world and what will we do to help support each other.
I loved the characters. The main female character Rosie, was a spirited, capable woman who took care of herself. She did not let the trauma of her early life defeat her but came to meet her life where she was at. Lucas, oh sweet Lucas who just wanted to protect. He came with his own trauma that he worked through in the process of the book. Both main characters grew so much through the book which was beautiful to see. They saw the skeletons in their closets and helped each other take it out and process it all to survive in the new world that was.
The story leads us through a process of healing then working to live a larger purpose. I loved how it unfolded and it showcased how only how we have taken care of ourselves can make a larger difference in the world.
I loved the characters. The main female character Rosie, was a spirited, capable woman who took care of herself. She did not let the trauma of her early life defeat her but came to meet her life where she was at. Lucas, oh sweet Lucas who just wanted to protect. He came with his own trauma that he worked through in the process of the book. Both main characters grew so much through the book which was beautiful to see. They saw the skeletons in their closets and helped each other take it out and process it all to survive in the new world that was.
The story leads us through a process of healing then working to live a larger purpose. I loved how it unfolded and it showcased how only how we have taken care of ourselves can make a larger difference in the world.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 5, 2025
I enjoyed this book. It was my first time reading anything by Jessie Ellis and I was impressed by her writing. Her words were quite lyrical at times. I was expecting a bit more action and adventure, but the book veered more toward character exploration, which was interesting as well. Lucas and Rosie fell for one another within a day or two, and I would have appreciated their relationship moving a bit more slowly. Insta-love isn’t really my thing. But that’s just a personal preference and not a criticism of the book. And I must admit I thought the resolution came about too quickly, but otherwise I was engrossed in the story and thought it was very well done. I’d recommend this one. (I would caution that there are several triggers in this book, including sexual assault of the main female character and her recovery, murder, and death of a child, which the main male character is dealing with.)
May 14, 2025
“Find Her,” by Jessie Ellis, is a taut, suspenseful, and dark tale of a prison inmate, Luke, a convicted murderer who has been given a task: find and protect Rosie, the 19-year-old daughter of the prison warden’s daughter. (Trigger warnings for rape and violence.) There are few survivors left after a devastating pandemic; those who are fortunate enough to be alive, including Luke and Rosie, received a life-saving vaccine. Besides the prisoners, who were used as guinea pigs for the experimental vaccine, an evil group known as “Scythe” took the vaccine and plan to start a new civilization on their own terms. Once Luke finds Rosie, the pair team up and face this new dystopian world together. Rosie has been trained for this moment by her late father, who realized too late that he had trusted the wrong person. Although the two have an immediate connection/attraction, both have past trauma, and their relationship builds slowly over time. This is a fast-paced and gripping story!
August 13, 2025
3.5 ⭐️ This was an ok book that had some really dark parts. A virus has wiped out most of the worlds population except for a select few, including the MMC Lucas. He is in prison and before the warden died he tasked Lucas with finding and protecting his daughter Rosie. Rosie's opening chapter includes a violent SA and graphic violence. That was tough to read. Lucas eventually finds Rosie and they begin a trek to safety. They encounter dangers along the way and Rosie demonstrates her survival skills. The book was an insta-love one which didn't make a lot of sense, and was kind of weird. It's not a very long book so things don't go too deep, most of the book is the initial days after Lucas finds Rosie and their journey. Overall the book was fine, but nothing amazing.
No third act breakup
4/5 on the Spicy Scale
On page SA to FMC, not by MMC
On page violence against FMC, not by MMC
Graphic violence
Child death, not on page
Dystopian/Contemporary
No third act breakup
4/5 on the Spicy Scale
On page SA to FMC, not by MMC
On page violence against FMC, not by MMC
Graphic violence
Child death, not on page
Dystopian/Contemporary
Read
April 27, 2025DNF at 74% when suddenly the book turned even more dark with BDSM tropes. I personally don't believe that's how trauma response in humans works. It also seems to imply that the only reason why a girl would want to be spanked is because of said trauma, which I also believe is a disservice to the kink community.
This was after I noted similar things that other reviewers have, such as the SA scene at the beginning of the book (without a trigger warning in the front matter) and the corny insta-love trope (which I'm very much annoyed by these days) relationship between the two main characters. I tried to give this book a chance, knowing my own bias, but had enough when the spanking started. No thanks. Not my cup of tea.
This was after I noted similar things that other reviewers have, such as the SA scene at the beginning of the book (without a trigger warning in the front matter) and the corny insta-love trope (which I'm very much annoyed by these days) relationship between the two main characters. I tried to give this book a chance, knowing my own bias, but had enough when the spanking started. No thanks. Not my cup of tea.
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