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Through Many Fires: Strengthen What Remains
Terrorists smuggle a nuclear bomb into Washington D.C. and detonate it during the State of the Union Address. Army veteran and congressional staffer Caden Westmore is in nearby Bethesda and watches as a mushroom cloud grows over the capital. The next day, as he drives away from the still burning city, he learns that another city has been destroyed and then another. America is under siege. Panic ensues and society starts to unravel. Through Many Fires is Kyle Pratt's third novel.
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First published August 5, 2013
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About the author
Kyle Pratt
28 books71 followersKyle Pratt is the award-winning and bestselling author of post-apocalyptic, science fiction and speculative fiction novels, novellas and short stories.
His most recent post-apocalyptic thriller is the Amazon bestseller, Through the Storm. His first venture in the post-apocalyptic genre was with the similarly named Through Many Fires novel. This first book in the Strengthen What Remains series came out in paperback, Kindle, and on Audible in August 2013. Within two weeks the novel appeared on the Kindle Science Fiction Post-Apocalyptic list, reaching #10, and reached #1 on the list on December 2, 2014. The second book in the series, A Time to Endure, reached the number one position on the Amazon Kindle war fiction genre list just over a month after release and then again in January of 2016. At the same time Braving the Storms reached the number eight spot.
While serving on ships in the United States Navy, Kyle wrote short stories to pass the time. After retiring from the service he continued to hone his craft and in July of 2012 released his debut novel, Titan Encounter, a science fiction space adventure. His second book, Final Duty was released in January of 2013. His most recent science fiction novel is Recall the Earth, the second book of the Guardian Knights of Terra series.
Today, Kyle and his wife Lorraine live on a small family farm in Western Washington State. When he isn't writing he repairs gates and fences, tends bees and chickens and blogs anything that comes to his mind.
His most recent post-apocalyptic thriller is the Amazon bestseller, Through the Storm. His first venture in the post-apocalyptic genre was with the similarly named Through Many Fires novel. This first book in the Strengthen What Remains series came out in paperback, Kindle, and on Audible in August 2013. Within two weeks the novel appeared on the Kindle Science Fiction Post-Apocalyptic list, reaching #10, and reached #1 on the list on December 2, 2014. The second book in the series, A Time to Endure, reached the number one position on the Amazon Kindle war fiction genre list just over a month after release and then again in January of 2016. At the same time Braving the Storms reached the number eight spot.
While serving on ships in the United States Navy, Kyle wrote short stories to pass the time. After retiring from the service he continued to hone his craft and in July of 2012 released his debut novel, Titan Encounter, a science fiction space adventure. His second book, Final Duty was released in January of 2013. His most recent science fiction novel is Recall the Earth, the second book of the Guardian Knights of Terra series.
Today, Kyle and his wife Lorraine live on a small family farm in Western Washington State. When he isn't writing he repairs gates and fences, tends bees and chickens and blogs anything that comes to his mind.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
November 29, 2013
A MUST READ
Great book which I received through Good Reads giveaway. Thank you Good Reads and Kyle Pratt.
"Through Many Fires" is the first in the series Strengthen What Remains. I await his next book in this series.
I literally could not put this book down. From the first page to the last, the story engulfs you. It is a very realistic, action packed, suspense book. I had to remember it is fiction, "Through Many Fires" is so believable.
The story begins as Caden Westmore, an Army vet and staffer to Senator Stevens survives a nuclear attack on the nation's capitol. With most of the government wiped out, Caden flees the city. As Caden journeys across the US, Caden learns several other cities have been attacked. Caden travels to his home state of Washington in attempt to aid the government in restoring order.
Great book which I received through Good Reads giveaway. Thank you Good Reads and Kyle Pratt.
"Through Many Fires" is the first in the series Strengthen What Remains. I await his next book in this series.
I literally could not put this book down. From the first page to the last, the story engulfs you. It is a very realistic, action packed, suspense book. I had to remember it is fiction, "Through Many Fires" is so believable.
The story begins as Caden Westmore, an Army vet and staffer to Senator Stevens survives a nuclear attack on the nation's capitol. With most of the government wiped out, Caden flees the city. As Caden journeys across the US, Caden learns several other cities have been attacked. Caden travels to his home state of Washington in attempt to aid the government in restoring order.
September 29, 2013
Fast paced, action, drama... this book delivers. From the first nuclear explosion in Washington D.C. that wipes out the government to the journey Caden takes across the country and the events that unfold in his home state of Washington, there is not a dull page. This book gave me nightmares; not because of some imaginary creature, but because I could imagine these exact events happening as they unfolded- right down to the role of China. I'm wondering if there is a sequel coming? We are left hanging; no closure to the events. The terrorist affiliations are implied but this also was sketchy. But overall this is a nail biting read if that is your cup of tea.
September 27, 2017
Maybe it's me. Maybe I've just read too many apocalyptic and dystopian novels. I gave up on this one about one-third in. This is yet another novel with a hero who's just too good to be true. He saves a baby, he's a perfect gentleman towards women, he's of course ex-military, he's lucky enough to start working for the future president. And while everybody is starving and living in tents he doesn't even have a very hard time finding diapers and baby formular. I am so very tired of those perfect heros...
March 17, 2023
Dnf-10%
October 6, 2014
2.5 stars. I wanted to like this book. Really I did. However I have a personal rule and that rule says that once I start skimming though a book instead of reading it it's time to put the book down and move on.
I made it to about 47% before I had to stop and move on.
The writing wasn't the best I've ever seen but it didn't detract or distract me from reading the book. What did get to me and ultimately made me stop reading was the "romance."
The main character goes from happily engaged, to mourning, to starting to care about a new woman he literally just met and knows almost nothing about aside from her name, to thinking about how he doesn't mind people thinking he's married to her, to thinking about how he doesn't really love his fiancé after all despite loving her just a week ago but he does really care about this new woman he's known for about a week. Maybe. Two days of which he spent unconscious.
While I commend the author for presenting a possibly more realistic and believable view of what might happen in America after a major terrorism attack of that scale the first half of the book is was too bogged down in the mundane for me.
I was hoping for more political intrigue and while that was there it was mostly in flashes and glimpses. Theories about who and what might have caused these bombings in the book. Aside from that it was mostly the main character trying to get from one place to another.
I tried but this book just didn't do it for me.
I made it to about 47% before I had to stop and move on.
The writing wasn't the best I've ever seen but it didn't detract or distract me from reading the book. What did get to me and ultimately made me stop reading was the "romance."
The main character goes from happily engaged, to mourning, to starting to care about a new woman he literally just met and knows almost nothing about aside from her name, to thinking about how he doesn't mind people thinking he's married to her, to thinking about how he doesn't really love his fiancé after all despite loving her just a week ago but he does really care about this new woman he's known for about a week. Maybe. Two days of which he spent unconscious.
While I commend the author for presenting a possibly more realistic and believable view of what might happen in America after a major terrorism attack of that scale the first half of the book is was too bogged down in the mundane for me.
I was hoping for more political intrigue and while that was there it was mostly in flashes and glimpses. Theories about who and what might have caused these bombings in the book. Aside from that it was mostly the main character trying to get from one place to another.
I tried but this book just didn't do it for me.
October 22, 2013
Through Many Fires by Kyle Pratt
I enjoyed this book tremendously!! I was actually angry at Kyle when I finished the book, he left me hanging, I wanted to know more about what happens to the US, Caden, Maria, well everyone and thing in the book!!! I quickly went to his website to beg for a sequel when I see one is already in the works!!! Yeah!!! Hopefully, it will be finished soon!
Disclaimer...I am friends with Kyle, his wife Lorraine and their two boys. I met the family when we were stationed in Guam together back in 1983, then we followed them to Japan, and met up with them again in Hawaii. However, this in no way taints my view of the book. It just makes me proud to call him a friend.
Great read, leaves you wanting more!
I enjoyed this book tremendously!! I was actually angry at Kyle when I finished the book, he left me hanging, I wanted to know more about what happens to the US, Caden, Maria, well everyone and thing in the book!!! I quickly went to his website to beg for a sequel when I see one is already in the works!!! Yeah!!! Hopefully, it will be finished soon!
Disclaimer...I am friends with Kyle, his wife Lorraine and their two boys. I met the family when we were stationed in Guam together back in 1983, then we followed them to Japan, and met up with them again in Hawaii. However, this in no way taints my view of the book. It just makes me proud to call him a friend.
Great read, leaves you wanting more!
January 6, 2015
Caden see a mushroom cloud enveloping Washington during the State of the Union speech, knows it's time to leave. Closer to Atlanta another mushroom cloud knows his fiancé was in the middle of it. He is saved by a refugee called Maria saves a child the three head to Couldn't put this book down read it cover to cover in one sitting. I read a lot since I retired it's been a while since I've done this. Can't wait till book two comes out. Masterful story telling. The only thing that scares me it could really happen.
September 29, 2013
One of the best post-apocalyptic books I have read. The characters are really well developed and the story really keeps moving with an ending that I didn't see coming. Highly recommend.
August 7, 2020
This book litterly starts with a blast. when a nuclear weapon is detonated in Washington.
From there we follow Caden Withmore, a senators aid, on his way from Washington to his home town. He will face many problems, with robers, girls and a government that doesnt know what they do.
From there we follow Caden Withmore, a senators aid, on his way from Washington to his home town. He will face many problems, with robers, girls and a government that doesnt know what they do.
April 8, 2016
It's difficult to say I enjoyed this book when it deals with the nuclear destruction of cities in the US; however, it is well-written, the characters are likable and sympathetic, and the thoughts of nuclear attacks in the US is chilling.
There is a conspiracy going on, but we don't know all the characters yet. The Chinese are involved and sign a deal with the acting President that looks like they are coming to the rescue with food and medicine, but they are also putting themselves in position to take over the west coast of the US. That is also very chilling.
The military is portrayed in a positive light--as humans instead of machines. The people of the US are shown as scared and desperate as food and fuel become scarce, but they don't turn into murderers and cannibals overnight, as is often portrayed in EOTWAWKI books. Yes, there are a few that resort to violence, but they are dealt with quickly. Most of the people are shown as fearful and worried about their families, and it helps that the government and FEMA appear to be doing the jobs they should be doing.
There are a few things I had issues with:
1. During a state of the union address, a member of the President's cabinet is always hidden away in a secret location in case of the very scenario that happens in this book. Durant becomes President because he was in a car accident. Unless that was part of the conspiracy--to put the last in succession into the Presidency--we're missing a character.
2. The effects of radiation and burns from the explosions are treated very lightly. There should be horrific burn victims and people dying of radiation sickness. Caden, the main character, worries about radiation, but that's about all we hear about it.
3. There is talk of the possible responsible parties, but nothing is done to strike back at any of them. I think the American people would be clamoring for revenge and our allies in Europe should have intelligence and analysis to help us determine the responsible parties. But...who is in on this conspiracy?
Caden, as our main character, is strong, smart, sympathetic, and does everything he can to help people. He and his family are also very likable. Caden knows there is something very, very wrong with the treaty with the Chinese, and he starts to lead a rebellion against it. It's possible the next book will be about a civil war in the US.
There are also several good people left in state governments, who are not happy at all about the federal government declaring martial law and taking all power away from the states. The feds are also censoring the news and the internet, so information is not getting to the people. Caden's former fiancé is part of this cover-up. In times of emergency, accurate information is vital. People can't make the correct decisions and take the correct actions without it, but that is probably why President Durant has done this. He is either part of the conspiracy, a puppet, or an idiot.
I'm glad I found this series after it was completed so I can move on to the next book right away. I do recommend it, although it makes nuclear war a little too "clean".
There is a conspiracy going on, but we don't know all the characters yet. The Chinese are involved and sign a deal with the acting President that looks like they are coming to the rescue with food and medicine, but they are also putting themselves in position to take over the west coast of the US. That is also very chilling.
The military is portrayed in a positive light--as humans instead of machines. The people of the US are shown as scared and desperate as food and fuel become scarce, but they don't turn into murderers and cannibals overnight, as is often portrayed in EOTWAWKI books. Yes, there are a few that resort to violence, but they are dealt with quickly. Most of the people are shown as fearful and worried about their families, and it helps that the government and FEMA appear to be doing the jobs they should be doing.
There are a few things I had issues with:
1. During a state of the union address, a member of the President's cabinet is always hidden away in a secret location in case of the very scenario that happens in this book. Durant becomes President because he was in a car accident. Unless that was part of the conspiracy--to put the last in succession into the Presidency--we're missing a character.
2. The effects of radiation and burns from the explosions are treated very lightly. There should be horrific burn victims and people dying of radiation sickness. Caden, the main character, worries about radiation, but that's about all we hear about it.
3. There is talk of the possible responsible parties, but nothing is done to strike back at any of them. I think the American people would be clamoring for revenge and our allies in Europe should have intelligence and analysis to help us determine the responsible parties. But...who is in on this conspiracy?
Caden, as our main character, is strong, smart, sympathetic, and does everything he can to help people. He and his family are also very likable. Caden knows there is something very, very wrong with the treaty with the Chinese, and he starts to lead a rebellion against it. It's possible the next book will be about a civil war in the US.
There are also several good people left in state governments, who are not happy at all about the federal government declaring martial law and taking all power away from the states. The feds are also censoring the news and the internet, so information is not getting to the people. Caden's former fiancé is part of this cover-up. In times of emergency, accurate information is vital. People can't make the correct decisions and take the correct actions without it, but that is probably why President Durant has done this. He is either part of the conspiracy, a puppet, or an idiot.
I'm glad I found this series after it was completed so I can move on to the next book right away. I do recommend it, although it makes nuclear war a little too "clean".
January 12, 2014
When I read the synopsis of this book, my memories immediately jumped to the novel “Alas, Babylon” by Pat Frank. Then it traveled to the movies “Red Dawn” and “Fail Safe”. All of these stories are devastatingly thought provoking. When I searched for, “nuclear holocaust fiction” I found hundreds of movies, books, and even music on post atomic scenarios. I had no idea of the number of apocalyptic stories that were out there. I then pondered what Kyle Pratt could bring to the post-atomic storyline. Then I read the book.
Caden Westmore has been dropped head-first into an unimaginable nightmare! Washington DC is gone, followed quickly by other large cities. He starts running and struggles to understand what he sees and hears while desperately searching for a glimpse of sanity. The real story begins when Caden rescues a baby, Adam, and is then rescued from two thugs by an unusual woman, Maria. This unconventional team strikes out fully armed to find safety and security. They eventually arrive at Caden’s hometown in Oregon and step in the middle of a battle for survival. After he reunites with his family he works with the local Sheriff to diffuse the standoff situation. He then discovers that the country’s new President has made some dangerous and thoughtless decisions, which forces Caden to into making an unthinkable choice… he chooses to fight for freedom and goes against the decisions of the President of the United States. He is now neck deep in a rebellion.
Caden is a normal guy, which makes this book very real to me. I kept thinking at every turn, “What would I do?” Most of the story is common sense in a post-atomic scenario; lawlessness, theft, breakdowns in public utilities, and shortages of every conceivable item. What I didn’t see coming was civil war. That twist trumps everything else. Brother against brother once again. Kyle Pratt not only writes a believable scenario, he puts me into the fray. I’m right beside Caden, scratching my head on what to do. I am very anxious to read the net book in this series and wish to congratulate Kyle Pratt on a remarkable story.
FYI ... We were in Guam from 1979-1981 :-)
Caden Westmore has been dropped head-first into an unimaginable nightmare! Washington DC is gone, followed quickly by other large cities. He starts running and struggles to understand what he sees and hears while desperately searching for a glimpse of sanity. The real story begins when Caden rescues a baby, Adam, and is then rescued from two thugs by an unusual woman, Maria. This unconventional team strikes out fully armed to find safety and security. They eventually arrive at Caden’s hometown in Oregon and step in the middle of a battle for survival. After he reunites with his family he works with the local Sheriff to diffuse the standoff situation. He then discovers that the country’s new President has made some dangerous and thoughtless decisions, which forces Caden to into making an unthinkable choice… he chooses to fight for freedom and goes against the decisions of the President of the United States. He is now neck deep in a rebellion.
Caden is a normal guy, which makes this book very real to me. I kept thinking at every turn, “What would I do?” Most of the story is common sense in a post-atomic scenario; lawlessness, theft, breakdowns in public utilities, and shortages of every conceivable item. What I didn’t see coming was civil war. That twist trumps everything else. Brother against brother once again. Kyle Pratt not only writes a believable scenario, he puts me into the fray. I’m right beside Caden, scratching my head on what to do. I am very anxious to read the net book in this series and wish to congratulate Kyle Pratt on a remarkable story.
FYI ... We were in Guam from 1979-1981 :-)
December 8, 2013
I very much enjoyed reading Through Many Fires, a book about the end of America as we know it (following the nuclear destruction of major cities). The book has just about everything I enjoy in that kind of story: people trying to find comfort, difficult decisions, and even a budding rebellion of sorts. Right up my alley!
The story is enough for me to like the book, but I can't quite call the book amazing. The story ends rather abruptly, leaving me feeling a little unresolved. I'll have to wait for the second book, I suppose. I think the ending of this first book could've benefited from a more climactic conflict (it was a little lackluster).
The author is new at writing (this is his third book, I believe, and his first non-science fiction) and he could use a little practice. I'm having trouble putting my finger on it, but the writing seemed very simple to me. I think it has to do with the way people speak and act. It just feels slightly unnatural. There are also numerous grammatical and spelling errors, but they aren't really enough to make the book unenjoyable.
Despite the downsides, the upsides were really there! I found myself relating the main character, Caden, even though I've never been in the military and my own life situation is completely different. I had a little bit of trouble with the military jargon, but the glossary in the back solved that for me. And again, the story was superb! I couldn't put the book down! In fact, it only took me this long to finish because my father picked it up over Thanksgiving break and wouldn't let it go!
I received the book in a Goodreads giveaway, otherwise it is likely I would never have picked it up. But I'm glad I got it because I truly did enjoy it. With a few more books under his book and a good editor to help out, I think Kyle Pratt has was it takes to put forth a truly great piece of art.
I look forward to part two!
The story is enough for me to like the book, but I can't quite call the book amazing. The story ends rather abruptly, leaving me feeling a little unresolved. I'll have to wait for the second book, I suppose. I think the ending of this first book could've benefited from a more climactic conflict (it was a little lackluster).
The author is new at writing (this is his third book, I believe, and his first non-science fiction) and he could use a little practice. I'm having trouble putting my finger on it, but the writing seemed very simple to me. I think it has to do with the way people speak and act. It just feels slightly unnatural. There are also numerous grammatical and spelling errors, but they aren't really enough to make the book unenjoyable.
Despite the downsides, the upsides were really there! I found myself relating the main character, Caden, even though I've never been in the military and my own life situation is completely different. I had a little bit of trouble with the military jargon, but the glossary in the back solved that for me. And again, the story was superb! I couldn't put the book down! In fact, it only took me this long to finish because my father picked it up over Thanksgiving break and wouldn't let it go!
I received the book in a Goodreads giveaway, otherwise it is likely I would never have picked it up. But I'm glad I got it because I truly did enjoy it. With a few more books under his book and a good editor to help out, I think Kyle Pratt has was it takes to put forth a truly great piece of art.
I look forward to part two!
September 21, 2015
This was very interesting. The plot was well developed.
I'd say the romance was juvenile. Becky was oh so important. Until she wasn't. Which happened in two days. The insta-love with Maria was equally silly.
That said, this book was NOT about romance and I'm glad. It wasn't even about action. It was mostly about politics... during war. And how badly innocent people suffer during such times. Also, friendship, loyalty and the American obsession with patriotism and freedom. For non-Americans, like me, this is really... unnecessary, but it was all well developed.
The editing, however, could've been better. Punctuation problems and even spelling issues (Los Angles?) made the book seem almost amateur. That said, it was never bad enough to the point where it could've been distracting. Just an observation, really.
Again, very interesting.
I'd say the romance was juvenile. Becky was oh so important. Until she wasn't. Which happened in two days. The insta-love with Maria was equally silly.
That said, this book was NOT about romance and I'm glad. It wasn't even about action. It was mostly about politics... during war. And how badly innocent people suffer during such times. Also, friendship, loyalty and the American obsession with patriotism and freedom. For non-Americans, like me, this is really... unnecessary, but it was all well developed.
The editing, however, could've been better. Punctuation problems and even spelling issues (Los Angles?) made the book seem almost amateur. That said, it was never bad enough to the point where it could've been distracting. Just an observation, really.
Again, very interesting.
December 23, 2014
The opening chapter was explosive (literally and figuratively) and set the tone for the rest of the novel. Through Many Fires is a post-apocalyptic thriller that is fast-paced and action packed. Although there were some misspelled words, the story was so captivating that it didn't detract from the overall flow and the characters were well developed. I was sitting on the edge of my seat the entire time I read this novel. Hopefully the next installment in this series, A Time to Endure, will focus more on the implied terrorist affiliations and won't disappoint.
December 16, 2014
Good action book
Another end of life as we know it book, but it held my interest, even though there were military-like skirmishes. The plot seems plausible, and uses North Korea and China as sinister countries ripe to overtake a damaged U.S. Since I'm not into military novels, the book redeemed itself by having a burgeoning romance between the main characters amidst the destruction. The only character fully developed is the main character, though. It would have been nice to know Maria's thoughts, also.
Another end of life as we know it book, but it held my interest, even though there were military-like skirmishes. The plot seems plausible, and uses North Korea and China as sinister countries ripe to overtake a damaged U.S. Since I'm not into military novels, the book redeemed itself by having a burgeoning romance between the main characters amidst the destruction. The only character fully developed is the main character, though. It would have been nice to know Maria's thoughts, also.
August 30, 2014
Excellent post-apocalyptic book.
This book has a great twist that most other post-apocalyptic stories don't have. Well written and the cover design is my all-time favorite by Mycah Hansen. Sorry, but I don't describe books. I just let those of you who enjoy this genre know that I think this book is definitely an enjoyable page-turner. I'm looking forward to the sequel.
This book has a great twist that most other post-apocalyptic stories don't have. Well written and the cover design is my all-time favorite by Mycah Hansen. Sorry, but I don't describe books. I just let those of you who enjoy this genre know that I think this book is definitely an enjoyable page-turner. I'm looking forward to the sequel.
May 4, 2016
Not a bad book about a future America where terrorists use nukes against a number of major cities. Of course, the protagonist supports those who are against the surviving government, who wants to get aid from China, but give up major cities to them for 99-year leases (similar to what was done to China in Hong Kong, Shanghai and other cities).
December 5, 2014
This story has so many facts that are true or on the verge of potentially happening that can be a bit unsettling and makes you wonder what needs to be done to prevent such events from coming to pass. A well written book that begs you to seek out if there is a sequel!
May 26, 2016
Could Easily Happen
Very well-written, totally plausible. I have already pre-ordered the next book. I can easily see this scenario unfolding just as written--with another country doing to us what we have done to so many other countries for several centuries. A very good read!
Very well-written, totally plausible. I have already pre-ordered the next book. I can easily see this scenario unfolding just as written--with another country doing to us what we have done to so many other countries for several centuries. A very good read!
January 6, 2015
Interesting supposition
This story was fast-paced and well written. There are a few flaws with the ideas presented, but who has time to consider them while reading? I can't wait to read the next story. Fans of Jericho will approve.
This story was fast-paced and well written. There are a few flaws with the ideas presented, but who has time to consider them while reading? I can't wait to read the next story. Fans of Jericho will approve.
October 30, 2015
The writing was choppy and I stopped as soon as I read the following sentence: "he picked up the cell phone and was relieved to find a dial tone." Really? Cell phones have dial tones? That's just careless writing.
February 25, 2014
Great book about a possible future war. Cant wait for book 2
September 13, 2019
Good introduction to a series, but not a stand alone novel.
September 12, 2013
I enjoyed this book and look forward to more in the series.
April 6, 2019
Once again, I don't understand how a book garners so many glowing reviews when it is definitely not worthy of them. This book doesn't really have many reviews, but I didn't read anything worthy of 4 or 5 stars. It was a stretch to give it two. First, how did the destruction of 6 cities in the United States, the entire United States, cause such immediate and catastrophic problems. This is a huge country, and the cities hit were not even big agricultural or manufacturing hubs. There was absolutely no reason for the starvation and complete breakdown of society and infrastructure that the author describes.
I don't know why Seattle was even a target when they were selecting only a few cities. Detroit was another shocker. There is no reason to target either of those cities when only a few targets were hit. The auto industry isn't relevant to military conflicts. There was nothing of any interest in Detroit. I think Seattle was a target simply because the author wanted to write the story there.
The response from the remaining American government after Washington was hit made no sense. Who honestly believes that North Korea would still exist after such an attack? That country would be gone as soon as it was known where the plutonium came from. There isn't a chance in Hell that the US wouldn't retaliate. No one is letting the Chinese military on our soil either. The armed forces wouldn't let that happen, even if a politician tried it. The entire plot is ridiculous.
We have another perfect hero. Everything he needs, including a job working for a presidential candidate, drops right into his lap. It took him 2 whole days to get over his fiance's death and shack up with someone else. He is so amazing that a baby knew for a few days becomes his 'family.' He got a wife and kid within weeks of the terrible events that ripped his life apart, and finding out his fiance was actually alive prompted maybe 5 whole minutes of thought. Maria also switched her focus from her dead family to our hero instantly, and she just automatically adopted the baby too. What else would she do, after all? A great guy like that, and of course women are just waiting to rush in and adopt any baby they happen to find.
I want to know how a cell phone fried by an EMP starts working again after the user gets out of range. Electronics don't recover from EMPs. That phone would have been useless metal and plastic. Perhaps the biggest criticism of this book is that it is BORING. How the heck do authors take a subject like a nuclear attack on American cities and turn it into boring drivel. The fallout was never an issue. I read part of the second book in hopes that it wouldn't be garbage too. That was a futile hope. Somehow, the fallout just disappears. It is't carried on the wind, no one has radiation sickness, nothing. Its all gone after initial concerns about which way the wind was blowing. That is impossible. It truly is impossible. The people on the edges of the blast zone would have been affected by the radiation, but there wasn't a single mention of that happening. The radiation and fallout would have been a concern for years, not days. The mind boggles.
I don't know why Seattle was even a target when they were selecting only a few cities. Detroit was another shocker. There is no reason to target either of those cities when only a few targets were hit. The auto industry isn't relevant to military conflicts. There was nothing of any interest in Detroit. I think Seattle was a target simply because the author wanted to write the story there.
The response from the remaining American government after Washington was hit made no sense. Who honestly believes that North Korea would still exist after such an attack? That country would be gone as soon as it was known where the plutonium came from. There isn't a chance in Hell that the US wouldn't retaliate. No one is letting the Chinese military on our soil either. The armed forces wouldn't let that happen, even if a politician tried it. The entire plot is ridiculous.
We have another perfect hero. Everything he needs, including a job working for a presidential candidate, drops right into his lap. It took him 2 whole days to get over his fiance's death and shack up with someone else. He is so amazing that a baby knew for a few days becomes his 'family.' He got a wife and kid within weeks of the terrible events that ripped his life apart, and finding out his fiance was actually alive prompted maybe 5 whole minutes of thought. Maria also switched her focus from her dead family to our hero instantly, and she just automatically adopted the baby too. What else would she do, after all? A great guy like that, and of course women are just waiting to rush in and adopt any baby they happen to find.
I want to know how a cell phone fried by an EMP starts working again after the user gets out of range. Electronics don't recover from EMPs. That phone would have been useless metal and plastic. Perhaps the biggest criticism of this book is that it is BORING. How the heck do authors take a subject like a nuclear attack on American cities and turn it into boring drivel. The fallout was never an issue. I read part of the second book in hopes that it wouldn't be garbage too. That was a futile hope. Somehow, the fallout just disappears. It is't carried on the wind, no one has radiation sickness, nothing. Its all gone after initial concerns about which way the wind was blowing. That is impossible. It truly is impossible. The people on the edges of the blast zone would have been affected by the radiation, but there wasn't a single mention of that happening. The radiation and fallout would have been a concern for years, not days. The mind boggles.
November 2, 2016
I was immediately drawn into the story within just a few pages! I started reading this book late evening on 10/28 and I finished it on 10/30. It truly was a story that just sucked me into it and once I started reading it I had a really hard time putting it down! I stayed up late into the night reading and then as soon as I woke up, I grabbed a cup of coffee and went right back to reading it. I really love post-apocalyptic stories and especially love when I find a great book by a new author and to top it off, this is the first book in a series! I truly enjoy books that are in series and this is a series that has already started out great!
I really liked the main character Caden more as time went on. He truly was a good guy doing his best despite everything falling apart around him, he really stepped up to the plate time and time again! Maria was another favorite of mine and of course being a sucker for babies, little Adam really tugged at my heart strings. When Caden's family members were introduced I also felt an immediate connection with all of them. I really loved the scene when Caden and his sister were reunited...that actually caused me to laugh out loud!
After the different cities were attacked, society really started going downhill. I found myself wondering how my neighbors where I live would react to events like the one portrayed in the story...unfortunately, I think they wouldn't pull together but instead they would try to take from those weaker than them. Sure, some would try to help each other out but not enough to make up for the ones who wouldn't. Considering the world today...that's actually a scary thought. This book is a book of fiction but it could all too easily become non-fiction with everything that is currently going on in our world now! That's an even scarier thought!
I can't wait to read the rest of the books in this series! If you enjoy books of this type I really think you will enjoy this book. I am so glad I discovered this series and I can't wait to start the second book and see what is happening to Caden, Maria, little Adam and the rest of the people I met! I hope you enjoy this book as much as I have. Happy reading :)
I really liked the main character Caden more as time went on. He truly was a good guy doing his best despite everything falling apart around him, he really stepped up to the plate time and time again! Maria was another favorite of mine and of course being a sucker for babies, little Adam really tugged at my heart strings. When Caden's family members were introduced I also felt an immediate connection with all of them. I really loved the scene when Caden and his sister were reunited...that actually caused me to laugh out loud!
After the different cities were attacked, society really started going downhill. I found myself wondering how my neighbors where I live would react to events like the one portrayed in the story...unfortunately, I think they wouldn't pull together but instead they would try to take from those weaker than them. Sure, some would try to help each other out but not enough to make up for the ones who wouldn't. Considering the world today...that's actually a scary thought. This book is a book of fiction but it could all too easily become non-fiction with everything that is currently going on in our world now! That's an even scarier thought!
I can't wait to read the rest of the books in this series! If you enjoy books of this type I really think you will enjoy this book. I am so glad I discovered this series and I can't wait to start the second book and see what is happening to Caden, Maria, little Adam and the rest of the people I met! I hope you enjoy this book as much as I have. Happy reading :)
December 7, 2016
Decent easy read
This is an easy read, great for a beach read. The author doesn't go into great detail about appearance or setting which is nice to leave it to your imagination but tends to rush the story at times (within three paragraphs its been a week later - when did that happen?). He also seemed to belabor the desperate state of the country after the attacks. We got it the first 10 times you said it.
That being said, the story ends unresolved and I am definitely going to get the next book in the series!
Overall, intriguing plot line with good characters makes up or the amature writing mistakes of the author. Not the greatest book I've ever read but good enough to read and continue with the series.
This is an easy read, great for a beach read. The author doesn't go into great detail about appearance or setting which is nice to leave it to your imagination but tends to rush the story at times (within three paragraphs its been a week later - when did that happen?). He also seemed to belabor the desperate state of the country after the attacks. We got it the first 10 times you said it.
That being said, the story ends unresolved and I am definitely going to get the next book in the series!
Overall, intriguing plot line with good characters makes up or the amature writing mistakes of the author. Not the greatest book I've ever read but good enough to read and continue with the series.
June 19, 2020
Love a good apocalypse story!
You’d think that an apocalypse is an apocalypse, little difference to other books with the same focus. But in reality they come in many different forms, nuclear, viral, zombies, and so much more. Through Many Fires follows the effects wrought by nuclear devices. Caden Westmoreland is the main character and he is a man who searches for ways to preserve, not just humanity, but also his own strong convictions. He is a thoroughly good person and his journey drives much of this book. The author is knowledgeable about war and the personal side and this shows without making a dance about it. I enjoyed every single word and comment the author for bringing reality to fiction in the best of ways.
You’d think that an apocalypse is an apocalypse, little difference to other books with the same focus. But in reality they come in many different forms, nuclear, viral, zombies, and so much more. Through Many Fires follows the effects wrought by nuclear devices. Caden Westmoreland is the main character and he is a man who searches for ways to preserve, not just humanity, but also his own strong convictions. He is a thoroughly good person and his journey drives much of this book. The author is knowledgeable about war and the personal side and this shows without making a dance about it. I enjoyed every single word and comment the author for bringing reality to fiction in the best of ways.
November 28, 2019
Through Many Fires is the second book I've read from Kyle Pratt. I enjoyed his first book, Titan Encounter and enjoyed reading Through Many Fires even more. It's an excellent book. The premise of a nuclear attack against the United States and the ensuing chaos and political upheaval is certainly plausible. And Kyle handles the subject well. Caden Westmore and his friend Maria are likable, believable characters. You will definitely find yourself pulling for them.
Although I found parts of the story a bit far-fetched, such as Caden's involvement with an orphaned baby, most of the story felt real and authentic.
Although I found parts of the story a bit far-fetched, such as Caden's involvement with an orphaned baby, most of the story felt real and authentic.
July 11, 2019
This is the first book in the Strengthen What Remains series. The story is not a new one, terrorism strikes and people need to pick up the pieces and move on from wherever they were at the time.
I did enjoy the way the story portrayed how people patched themselves together to not only survive but also to rebuild and counter and additional threats.
I've already picked up the next few books in the series and I'm eager to get into them soon.
I did enjoy the way the story portrayed how people patched themselves together to not only survive but also to rebuild and counter and additional threats.
I've already picked up the next few books in the series and I'm eager to get into them soon.
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