Keep Close: A YA Post-Apocalyptic Survival Adventure

by Kristen Wade

Based on the Critically Acclaimed, Award-Winning Screenplay

In a post-apocalyptic Pacific Northwest, where mysterious creatures hunt the isolated, and survivors fight for dominance, can Ren protect her family in a world turned deadly?

In the wake of a catastrophic meteor shower, Ren, a haunted but brilliant 17-year-old, is thrust into a fight for her life. After a tragic loss, what was meant to be a peaceful sailing trip with her family spirals into chaos when a tidal wave leaves them stranded and adrift.

Rescued after months at sea, they return to shore far from home, only to confront the terrifying presence of banshees— phantom creatures that prey on anyone caught alone. With survival hinging on safety in numbers, Ren must embark on a dangerous journey with her siblings to rescue their mother. Along the way, deep feelings ignite between Ren and a courageous Australian ally, further complicating her mission.

As Ren's path is threatened by a desperate gang, she must navigate a treacherous wilderness where trust is fragile and loyalties are tested. Confronting her own emotional scars, the weight of leadership, and a tumultuous first love, can Ren lead her family safely back home?

Genres: Post Apocalyptic

392 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 12, 2025

Reviews

[Taylor McKay · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️
Great storyline and interesting take on the post apocalyptic world. Writing was a little young for me and it did drag on for a while. I still enjoyed the growth as the book continued but it took some time, almost at the end. This would be a great book for anyone who wants a more YA read set in a destroyed world.

[Sam · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant! I really loved this book! A terrifying story, with a post apocalyptic overtone, which turns into a great adventure. I liked most of the characters & found it well written, it had me in it's grip from the very start of the plot & by the end I didn't want it to be finished. A really great read. I do recommend!

[A.J. Valshaw · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Keep Close by Kristen Wade is an electrifying YA novel that grabs you from chapter one and doesn’t let go. This fast-paced, action-packed read is impossible to put down—I devoured it! The incredibly well-crafted characters make the story feel deeply personal and immersive. While the world Wade builds is fresh, with an intriguing alien presence, it serves more as a compelling backdrop rather than the main focus. Instead, this is a highly character-driven story, brimming with emotion, tension, and high stakes.

Based on an award-winning screenplay, Wade’s cinematic storytelling shines through. Every scene plays out like a high-energy blockbuster, with a bias toward action that keeps the pages flying. You can practically see the movie unfolding as you read. If you’re looking for an exciting, well-written YA book that blends thrilling action with powerful character moments, Keep Close is a must-read. Highly recommended!

[Abbie Menier · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book had me on the edge of my seat from beginning to end. This is an action packed post apocalyptic story. On the coasts of the post-apocalyptic Pacific Northwest after a meteor shower the characters we meet are faced with surviving these strange new occurrences.
The only reason I did not give it 5 stars was that there were many characters. While I value that they had their own chapters and we got a well rounded view of everything for everyone’s point of view sometimes it was a lot to take in from so many different people. I received an e-arc copy of this book from hidden gems and I am so glad I got to read this!

[Brianna Peace · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book i almost DNF. It was a slow start for me, with high expectations but it felt like the middle part of the story was being dragged on. It wasn't until I was 80% through the book and struggling to finish that it captured my attention and had me hooked with the drama and action. I personally did not enjoy the multiple perspectives especially since it was written in the 3rd person and especially when it switched perspectives when they were in the same group at the same time. It got a bit confusing and distracting. But honestly, if it wasn't for the epic and amazing ending, I would've said not to bother but it was worth it in the end.

[Pamela · Rating 5 out of 5]

This spectacular drama launches right into the action. Main character, Ren, is burdened with the tragedy of her past. Consumed by heartache and questioning the part she played in the family's devastating loss; she's brought back to the present by a bigger and more dangerous situation that threatens to destroy her and most of her remaining family members. Don't miss this high action, fast-paced story with its treacherous scavengers and unearthly, invisible banshee predators. I couldn't put it down. Wow! Great Read!!!!!

[Cami l · Rating 4 out of 5]

There's constant action, family love, redemption, and a little bit of a slow-burn romance even in this book. I never thought I'd find myself cheering for Fitz at the end, but that's how hard the character development goes. All of the characters in this story are complex and the plot doesn't have too many dull moments. Granted, there were parts that read as a bit unrealistic (like how are you telling me these characters can run into each other so much while traveling without air tags or a GPS??) but I could get past that for the sake of the plot.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

From being lost at sea to avoiding vicious creatures to being pursued by ruthless rivals intent on stealing their vessel to safety, there is no end to the perilous situation that Ren and her family face. I love post-apocalyptic survival fiction, and this book did not disappoint. There is a minor romantic subplot, offering a little tenderness and vulnerability in a race for survival. Definitely recommend.

[Tanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

A sailing trip is going to go bad when a meteor storm hits. The world changes so much that they get stranded far from home. They will need to find a safe way to get back home with all the dangers now around them all. See just how they get on
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and love how they got on

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Action packed and engrossing story that builds and builds. The anticipation and unknown add to the anxiety and consequence each page. Real relationships, immersive world building and incredible ending.

[Mik Wasiak · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good story good female protagonist like her protecting her family