Semi-Human

From the Ashes #1

by A.V. Shener

Josh grew up fearing the dangerous world beyond his Hive. Decades after the bombs fell, he believed himself safe—until his home was invaded and nearly destroyed.

Years later, Josh is a Defender, patrolling the treacherous land once called Colorado in search of Raiders who dare wander too close. After a mission goes horribly wrong, Josh falls into the hands of someone he’d only heard about in stories. River is a Semi-Human—part of an enhanced group once engineered to purify the radioactive air. After fulfilling their purpose, they were betrayed by the people they were created to save, forcing them to disappear as humanity rose from the ashes.

Far from home, Josh learns that greater forces are rising in the west, seeking to forge a new and twisted world. As waves of refugees flood the land, sharing stories of unimaginable horrors, River claims there may be a way to unite their people under a single banner. But can River be trusted? And with the winds of war howling ever closer, is it already too late?

Semi-Humans is an action-packed MM dystopian romance. It offers a thrilling glimpse into a world rising from the ashes and the people fighting against all odds for a better future.

Genres: M M Romance, Dystopia, Science Fiction, Enemies To Lovers, Romance, LGBT, Forced Proximity

437 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 1, 2025

About the author

A.V. likes to take a ride into the dark side of writing, but always makes sure to find his way back. If he can make his readers both captivated and uncomfortable, he knows he did his job.

Find me on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/av_shener_w...

And on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...

And this is my website:
https://avshener.wixsite.com/avshener

Reviews

[Morwen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Semi-human started really strong, with interesting "classic" sci-fi vibes, and a world that I definitely wanted to know more about, keeping me very entertained for the first half of the book.
I really enjoyed the concept and the encounter with Mother.

River behaves like I would expect an hybrid between AI and a human to do, but it makes it hard to me to get into the romance, as there is too much ingenuity and candor that remind me of humanified pets. The way River talks unfortunately puts me off the intimate scenes.

This is probably due my personal preference, but I was hoping for some more pining and slowburn because of the enemies to lovers/prisoner advertised trope. It was very wholesome of Josh to be so open minded, but the price was paid in tension, and the relationship felt like it progressed way too fast.

I had higher hopes also for the encounter with Father, wishing for a bit more depth to the villain.

All in all, I would rate the first half 4⭐, while the second felt more like 2.5 ⭐.

Thanks again to the author for gifting me this ARC in exchange for an honest opinion, I'm glad I got the chance to read it ❤️


Pre-read
I've just been gifted an ARC of this book by the author, happy birthday to me 😁

[Dani · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had so much fun reading this! The action is really fast paced and never lets up, and you never quite know what's coming next. Once I started reading I could not put this book down until I knew everything that had happened, even if it meant going to bed at 3am!

I really enjoyed getting to know River and Josh. River is very Peter Pan like in his exuberance and the way he approaches the difficulties they're facing as though they're inconsequential, yet he also carries an immense amount of responsibility and has a protective instinct that he can't shut off. The whole Semi-Human species (?) were fascinating and I was really intrigued to see who they are and what they're capable of. Josh made me smile so much too. He carries so much guilt about what happened when he and Caden were children and it felt like he needed to prove himself constantly so that no one would regret what happened. I loved when he got exasperated with River, and the development of their relationship was so wholesome and cute.

The friendships with Caden and Finn, and also the parental role of Dino, were really endearing and honestly I just wanted to know more. I'm really hoping there will be another book because I need to know what happens with Josh and River after that twist - I want to see them living their lives happy and free so badly. I'm also curious about if all the Giants are gone now? Will the Raiders be defeated? What happens to the Hives and the sketchy General? Do the Free Cities get involved? Are Caden and Finn together, or is it a similar situation to Caden and Josh? So many questions that I really hope we will get answers for because I'm already attached to these characters and I just need to know more...

*****

I received an ARC of this book from A.V. Shener, and this is my honest review

[Hope]

Edit: I’m taking down my original review and rating, as I wasn’t aware that the author used AI on their covers and to promote the book. Given that they spoke about the challenges of being a creative
In the time of AI in the author’s note, and the big bad is literally AI, I assumed it was actual digital art. Now I don’t trust the integrity of the writing, so I’m not going to rate it at all. Very unfortunate when a few bad apples ruin it for the bunch!

[Shelby | Spicy.booknook · Rating 5 out of 5]

Post Apocalyptic MM
Action / Adventure
Military Thriller
Forced Proximity
Enemies To Lovers
Amazing Side Characters
Sweet & Funny MCs
Spice: 🔥🔥🔥

Not gonna lie, this book had me nervous as hell for so much of it. The tension and action just blows up from the very beginning and just doesn’t stop. And the ending! Good lord. So good. I really hope there is more to come in the future.

The post apocalyptic world building done for this book was so well done. This world is a dark and scary place, but you get to see little bits of happiness shine through with some great characters and relationships that are formed. Of course our main MCs Josh and River were so fun to read. There was a lot more humor than I expected. The banter Josh and River was pretty darn cute and a perfect balance to the nail biting drama. River and his complete lack of filter and super sweet soul was so refreshing. I just adored him.

So many side characters that were well fleshed out, a super solid plot with lots of action and a sweet romance with a good amount of spice… Definitely recommend for those that love romantic thrillers, and especially post apocalyptic stories.

[Kim Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a great read. This author really knows how to build an interesting, layered worlds with fascinating characters.

I immediately fell for River, he may not be a human being but he really was the absolut sweetest. I loved how he so openly communicated 🏵

I enjoyed this book very much, even the side characters were so well written, you felt like being a real part in the story while reading it.

[Alisia alis_reads_ · Rating 5 out of 5]

I believe this is my fav AV SHENER book thus far! I was immersed immediately into this book. The dystopian vibes and the relationships established felt organic! Ahh the action was so intense! I literally cried at the end of this book because I was so distraught! But AV will put your heart back together.

I was immediately in love with River once he walked onto the page. Their teamwork to friendship, to lovers was done well. and the spice was lovely cherry on top!

I enjoyed this so much I gave it a 5 stars ⭐️ and 3 chili pepper 🌶️ . Love you, River! I think about you daily!

[Crex · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5🌟
this author has to be one of those whose hands are truly blessed because i’ve read all their books and not a single one missed. River is hands down my favorite character i love people who say exactly what’s on their mind no games no guessing he’s funny unhinged and so real then there’s Josh who’s been through it but still somehow soft and full of heart, their relationship didn’t need time to find itself they just knew and ran with it and it worked.. The found family vibe hit too Caden Dino Finn and Lyla i loved them all. I do wish we got a little more closure or even revenge when it came to that general and the people who told josh to crawl but i get it there was a war to fight and priorities had to shift clearly the author doesn’t believe in revenge or maybe they were just focused on the bigger picture the fight scenes were exactly my thing sharp clean and gripping and the romance crumbs were exactly what i needed it wasn’t the center of the story but it mattered and i appreciated that until next time…

[Leaux · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.25 / 5 ⭐️
2 / 5  🌶

Oh boy, this baby yanked me out of the slump I've been chilling in for a while and I am so grateful!

This book felt engaging right away; a dystopian romance set over a hundred years in the future after nuclear war destroyed the society as we know it. I don't need to summarize here because the blurb does a good job of giving the basics without spoiling anything, but holy heck I have to talk about it!

"Which parts of me do you like the most?"
"Which part?"
"Parts. There's got to be more than one!"

I cannot remember the last dystopian book I read, but this one was such a treat! (Makes me think I should read more like it) I loved Josh and River's story. River's unfiltered bluntness and childlike enthusiasm for most things were a joy to read. He was by far my favorite. My new little super strong, super fast, enhanced semi-human baby 🥰. Josh was such a sweet soul, and I'm so glad he found something special with River. They quickly became each other's person. Because where there is communication there's cooperation. Mother's words, or something like that 😉. 

"And my knees?"
I look down. "You're knees?"
"Don't you like them at all?"
I laugh. "Yeah, I can't get enough of your knees. Should I compliment your internal organs now?"
"Save some for later."

The side characters, especially Caden, Dino, Finn, and Lyla were great! I do hope A.V. continues on in this world because I simply want MORE! I need more deets, more adventure, more laughs, and more hard-fought victories!

There was a perfect amount of action (which started at the very beginning) and the scenes were never stale. They were some of my favorite parts and I think they were paced well. They're still second, of course, to literally almost anything River said. He had me laughing and shaking my head fondly so many times. 

 And the SCREAM I SCRUMPT at the last words of Chapter 19??? ! I about DIED. Keeled over. Passed away. I was a mess. Especially because it was the last part I read before a 12 hour shift at work!

"Which part of me did you miss the most?"
"Oh no, we're not playing that game."
"Was it my knees?"

My main wish was that there was a little more development and detail at times. In some places it read sort of like a short story where the little details are sacrificed for expediency. That is not to say the book felt rushed. In fact, the technical timeline felt believable and paced out well. The dialogue between the characters felt really good to me. But enhancing (lol) the inner monologue of Josh (who is the single POV we have) just a little would have gone a long way, I think. I personally feed off the descriptive detail of the internal monologue.

And the surprises, I felt, were very well done! I really enjoyed this book. I'm thankful for it because I think it pulled me out of my reading slump. And I am so excited to read more from A.V. Shener. I hope we get more for this world!

*~I received an e-ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review~*

[Lost In My Stories · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review

It’s not often a story makes me scream and wish the series was completed so I can binge read asap but this story absolutely nailed it for me.

Josh & River have such a strong dynamic together. Their pairing and their story grew naturally and never felt forced or rushed.

It was more than their story that kept me engaged. It was the world they live in. The background of how the world evolved after the collapse of society. How humanity evolved and how resilient the survivors become.

It’s also fascinating to read how each side truly believes they’re the hero in this story but through it all, Josh and River work together tirelessly to find a way to end the endless battles.

And have I mentioned the absolute heartbreaking moment? I ugly cried when I read what happened and kept crying chapters later when the reasons behind it became clear. The word play involved to invoke such emotions in a reader are truly worth noting.

I love a good apocalypse story and this one with the elements of sci-fi was simply amazing and so fun to read.

Now where’s the sequel? J/K. Sort of.

[Christina Sturgill · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: 4/5 🌟
Spice: 3/5 🌶️
Heroes: Josh and River

[Catarina Águas · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC review

This book was everything. I laughed, I cried, I got angry, I got scared, I got disgusted, I felt every emotion you can possibly feel.
I love post apocalyptic books and this one was so well written and the story was so captivating.
Josh is a sniper who has seen to much for his age. When he is captured by River, the world is suddenly diferent.
And River was so sweet, so curious and a beautiful soul. He wanted Josh and for him it was that simple
They fell in love gradually and it was so good to watch. They protected each other and would do anything for each other.
Near the end, when River dies, I cried. I wasn't expecting that. I kept hoping for him to came back. And thank God for Josh's rapid thinking, because he did came back.
Their love saved them and everyone in the end

[Bookandmischief06 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Semi-Human by A.V. Shener is an sci-fi MM romance that takes place in the future after an apocalyptic event forced humans underground to evade mass amounts of radiation on the surface. To combat this, scientists created a race of humans called Semi-humans that were meant to be able to handle the radiation and work to purify the air so those underground could eventually return to the surface. Nearly a hundred years later, many humans are still living underground in what are known as Hives and Semi-human humans are believed to have all died off, having not been seen in years.

Josh is a Hiver, living underground in a Hive called Unity. He was raised as an orphan after both his parents died and at 12 years old, the event known as Skyfall will irreparably change his world and his future. 10 years later, Josh has joined the Defenders. This is a military group meant to defend the Hive from Raiders and other enemy groups. While on a mission, Josh and his group are found by Raiders and Josh is eventually captured. Injured and weak, he’s at the mercy of his capturers until a being he thought no longer existed saves him.

River is a young Semi-human who was created as part of the last wave of Semi-humans. He’s blunt, strong and fast but also mischievous and intelligent. He’s also hiding many secrets about his people, the creators themselves and what is in store for the world unless he’s able to complete his mission. When he saves Josh, he sees him as a step towards the completion of that mission, but he also can’t help his feelings that develop towards Josh. As they work together to prepare for the impending war against both their people, politics, misunderstandings and decades-old feuds will stand in their way.

A.V. Shener has become one of my all-time favorite authors. His stories are amazing, engaging and surprising. His first book had me taking notice of him as an author but Semi-Human has me hooked. This book was adventurous, compelling and exciting. There was absolutely nothing predictable about this storyline and both the plot and character development were perfectly done. I think this book is heavier on the plot development but doesn’t lack anywhere else either.

I fell in love with River. His character was so enticing and charismatic but also sweet and funny. He’s so very blunt and just in your face with his words, it made him extremely lovable. Josh was more of the even-keeled character who was just living his day to day life before meeting River. He had a close friend that he both shared his bed with and significant childhood trauma. His character traits were the perfect balance to River’s. This book kept me completely enthralled and is absolutely one of my favorite reads of the year, if not ever. I can’t wait to see what comes next from this author. I gave this book 5 stars.

[gab_e_reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

My very first post-apocalyptic book that I've read - and I loved it so much! The story really enchanted me. I liked the action, the new worlds that opened up to me. And I literally fell in love with the two main characters. River captivated me from the very first moment, his direct and open nature, his tendency to see the best in other people/living beings. He is simply adorable! And Josh, who was so desperate for a home for himself, and found it in River ❤️. The end of the story literally made me cry, so beautiful - I really hope for a sequel. A.V. Shener you have won a big fan in me, thank you for this wonderful story!

Mein allererstes postapokalyptisches Buch - und ich habe es so sehr geliebt! Die Geschichte hat mich regelrecht verzaubert. Ich mochte die Action, die neuen Welten, die sich mir eröffneten. Und ich habe mich regelrecht in die beiden Hauptfiguren verliebt. River hat mich vom ersten Moment an in seinen Bann gezogen, seine direkte und offene Art, seine Neigung, das Beste in anderen Menschen/Lebewesen zu sehen. Er ist einfach liebenswert! Und Josh, der so sehr ein Zuhause für sich suchte, und es in River fand ❤️. Das Ende der Geschichte hat mich buchstäblich zum Weinen gebracht, so schön - ich hoffe wirklich auf eine Fortsetzung. A.V. Shener, du hast einen großen Fan in mir gewonnen, danke für diese wunderbare Geschichte!

[Jennys Bücherkiste · Rating 2 out of 5]

I am very sorry, but no. Basically no descriptions whatsoever, making it so fast paced I've been exhausted after reading only 30 pages. The "romance" was just fu*king everywhere all the time without any tension and with them being done after about one page due to lack of descriptions and emotions. The choice of words for describing their actions made me gag.

The plot was ok, but pretty straightforward and therefore not surprising. The relationships lacked depth or were rushed. The "You tortured me in the past but now we've eaten side by side once so I grew fond of you" - kind of rushed. I had sort of positive feelings towards some characters. River actually made me laugh twice. And Finn was a cutie unless he was at the most hyper point of a ADHD episode. Didn't really care about Josh. Slightly disliked Caden, though it got better.

That sadly wasn't the epic postapocalyptic mm romance I expected it to be.

[_mykee_b · Rating 5 out of 5]

{ ARC REVIEW }

Ohhhh myyyy heaaarrrttt😭😭

AV delivers •again• with an EPIC dystopian adventure! Funny. Sweet. Intense. Heart wrenching.

I was already on the edge of my seat & I hadn’t even finished the prologue.
🪝HOOKED🪝
My aniexty only rose the closer I got to the end! Chapter 19’s last line!! 😳📈*cue Jennifer Lawerence from her Hot Ones episode* WHAT DO YOU MEAN?! WHAT DOES THAT MEAN?!?! 😫

But I | absolutely | died during the horse scene 💀💀💀

Josh & River are THE dynamic duo..fighting against all odds for a better tomorrow. Attempting to bridge a gap - between humans & the enhanced - rooted in fear & ignorance. Will they succeed or is humanity too far gone for saving?

Honorable mentions: Ash🖤, Caden, Lyla, & of course, Finn 🥰

[Emily Roman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just finished "Semi Human" and let me tell you this book is irresistible. I could not put it down! It's a real page turner, and the dystopian setting is well-constructed.

The plot was action-packed and made the romance between River and Josh stronger. It added to the sense of danger because you are rooting for them to survive despite the obstacles surrounding them. The side characters were lovable, and I really hope we get a sequel because there is so much more I want answers to, like what happens to certain characters after the end.

River really shines in this novel. His blunt responses and naivety combined with his strength and optimism made me fall in love with him. Josh is his perfect partner with his resilient spirit and empathetic disposition.

I absolutely loved this novel, and I need more, so please go read it! If you love mm romance and dystopian books, you will adore this book. For me, it was perfection, but I need another book where we get more cuddling, reassuring, and tender moments between Josh and River. Also, there are other couples and characters i would love to see more from.

Fantastic book! Enthralling, lovable characters, and addictive to the max!

[Tamara · Rating 4 out of 5]

There’s so much going on in this story but I never felt overwhelmed. It’s a MM dystopian romance where humans don’t get on that well but their greatest threat is from AI enhanced humans. The humans had created semi humans to fix the planet after we destroyed it & then the humans turned on them. Rightly so, the semi humans disappeared for decades. While Josh, a human defender, was out on a mission he meets River, a semi human…their story turns into a fight for survival about a much bigger threat. This was a refreshing read. It was different, action packed but still had the romance. River is a no filter MC who is sweet and made me laugh. Highly recommend. I received an ARC from the author for an honest review.

[anna_79_reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a great read! Very well written and full of action. The characters are beautifully written. I loved it!

[Sofi · Rating 4 out of 5]

He watches me lying naked among the men he killed and says,“Nice butt.”

I needed this book. Such a great and fun read! The plot was crazy and amazing, I can see this as movie or TV show. This dystopian AI world is something so talked about now that it makes it seem so possible, the whole Semi-Human species are fascinating. Good book, so full of action, cute and funny little moments between River and Josh. I liked it, but I do feel like there was something missing for me, everything was so fast and therefore I didn't find much depth in the plot, it was a good plot with so much potential, but it somehow felt surface level. Other than that I really liked it.

I adore River, he is so sweet, I love his personality, it was this combination of being serious and a true protector but also being unintentional funny and somehow innocent person. He carried so much on his shoulders, I loved the hope he had for others and the world, River is one of those characters that will stay with me.

As the rest begin to spread, River grabs my hand.“I’ll destroy a tank for you.”
“I’d rather you be careful.”
He nods. “I’ll destroy it carefully.” He kisses me hard, then he and the rest of his people run across the ridge.

He leans down to kiss my chest. “Settle down, Josh’s heart. He’s safe with me.”

And josh or joshy, what a precious character, I understood Caden's and Dino's need to protect him there is something about him that just made me care. Everything he had to endure killed me, it hurt to read all the suffering and trauma he had to swallow. Josh needed a break, something positive in his life and he got it with River but still they faced so many challenges. The worst part is that he didn't get it until the end, so I am happy for that ending even though we had to suffer first.

“I’m sorry,” I say with my face buried in her hair. It feels so much like his. “I couldn’t save him.”
“He wasn’t looking for a savior; he needed a partner.” She holds my face.

I love these two, their relationship was so cute and just right. I also appreciated the lack of drama between them and Caden I mean don't get me wrong I love drama in books, but there was enough of it in the situation they were in, so I appreciate the fact that their love was a natural and smooth development.

“My prisoner,” he whispers, sending my self-control out the window. I kiss him hard. He tastes like fruit, even better than I remembered.

I do wish it was longer, I mean it was a fast-paced book, but I wish that we could have gotten more of the relationship between Caden and Josh, more scenes of Dino. I really need more of them! I want to know what happens, I loved the ending, but I just need to know more. I wish we get a second book specifically of River and Josh, but I also wish for a Caden and Finn book. I'm waiting for more from this author.

“Time seems to stop as River slowly opens his honey-colored eyes. His hazy gaze darts around the room until it lands on me. In this long-forgotten lab, where enhanced beings were once created to save humankind, River smiles at me in recognition.”

“I don’t want to make empty promises, but I will say this—our story won’t end tomorrow.” I’ve never meant anything more in my life.
River rests his forehead against mine. “You need to do what’s right for you.”
“Then good thing it’s you.”

Quotes worth mentioning:

They must have tried to trick him as well. “I’m real. How can I prove it to you?��
“What was the first thing I ever said to you?”
I let my memories play until I can’t help but smile. “Nice butt.”
He jumps on me, making us fall on the bed. I kiss him, holding him tightly as if he might fade.

He rests his head on my chest again. “Okay. I’m going to listen to your heart now. It speaks to me.”

“Tell me if I sound ridiculous,” I say. He raises his head, leaving my crown wet from his saliva. “You sound even better than my harmonica.” I smile. “That’s a big compliment.”

[Flipping Nap Time · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best world building I’ve read in a long time! Not a single word in this book is unnecessary. River is a semi human with a heart and soul of gold. He is trusting, caring, and honest to a fault. Although he is an enhanced human, he is one of the most gentle characters I’ve read in a while. River is his total opposite. He is just distrustful enough of others to know how to care for River when he needs it most. They gradually fall in love but the attraction and spice is almost instant.

I love how Caden (Josh’s past lover and BFF) and Finn (River’s past lover and BFF) show no signs of jealousy when they find out of their relationship. The four of them are a team and that comes across clear on the page.

This is an action packed romance with MAJOR triggers, so please proceed with caution if that’s an issue for you. Attempted SA, crucifixion, and multiple unalivings are all in detail on the page. River’s death and “clone resurrection” tore me apart and put me back together.

I really hope there is a sequel! I’m not ready to say goodbye to this world and have a lot of unanswered questions!

Are Caden and Finn a couple?
What happened to the giants?
Why did River die during Father’s final attack but Lyla survived?
What happened to River’s village?
What happened to Dino?
Does Finn become a Hiver?
What happens to the Hives?
Where do Josh and River end up settling?
Is Butch good?
What happened to Las Vegas after the attack?
Are the air purifiers gone and is the air really clean?
Why did Nanny Spider keep River’s clone for so long?
Does the lab become functional again?
Does River come back as he was before? Does he change?

[Storm In A Teacup · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am emotionally traumatised, in the best way. This book had incredible world building and background lore, the journey that Josh and River embark on is filled with excitement, mystery and sadness, I loved loved loved River he is absolutely my spirit animal and the relationship between Josh and River is so sweet, and funny. There are twists and turns you will never expect, it was an amazing read that I will be coming back to again and again.

[Brey (lil Sebastian)]

Think I’m going to DNF this at 6%. I know that’s super early but one of the main characters is involved with somebody already and I just don’t know based on the reviews how that’s going to turn out even though it’s highly rated. Just not in the mood for it.

[Elizabeth · Rating 2 out of 5]

DNF at 35%

Originally didn’t sound completely like a YA, but basically as soon as Josh met with with River, strictly YA. Unrealistic interactions, naivety, very much felt like older teenagers rather than young men who had to grow up fast in this dystopian world.

[Oreeee🌹]

Not feeling it

[maggie · Rating 5 out of 5]

what. the. he🏒🏒

[Rae_Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh. My. God. This. Book! It had me in an absolute chokehold. Post-apocalyptic/dystopia is not my usual genre but I'm so glad I picked this book up!

The premise:
The book follows Josh and River. It's first person and the whole story is told from Josh's POV.

Josh is a human survivor in a post apocalyptic world. He lives in a structure called a hive and works as a Defender patrolling the hive's surroundings to keep his people safe from Raiders.

River is an enhanced human, or semi-human as the remaining humans call them. Semi's were engineered after the bombing to work for the humans purifying the air by removing the dangerous radiation and making it safe again for humans. After fulfilling their purpose, the humans turned on them semi's, forcing them to dissappear into hiding.

After a mission goes wrong, Josh finds himself a prisoner of River who's trying to unite the humans and semi's in the fight against a much greater evil. Josh is initially very skeptical of River due to stories hes heard of semi's, but as they travel together their relationship develops and turns into something so sweet.

Honestly this book is a roller-coaster! The pair go through so much and face so many hurdles in the name of saving the world. From the end of chapter 19 (approx 75%) my heart did not stop racing until I read the words "The End". Its not a cliffhanger but I definitely need a sequel.

I absolutely adored River. He's hilariously blunt and says the oddest things at times which had me truly laughing out loud. There are also some epic side characters who definitely need their stories told.

The spicy scenes were hot but also funny at times because of River being River. There's not heaps of spice but there was definitely enough scattered throughout to keep me satisfied without it taking away from the story.

Overall, such a fantastic read. Definitely recommend!

Vibes:
• Prisoner/Captor
• Human/Enhanced Human
• Fate of the World
• Found Family
• Soulmate Vibes

Rating: 5⭐️
Spice: 2🌶

[inbookishdreams · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
My First Ever 5-Star Sci-Fi Read!

“I don’t want to make empty promises, but I will say this—our story won’t end tomorrow.” I’ve never meant anything more in my life. River rests his forehead against mine. “You need to do what’s right for you.” “Then good thing it’s you.”

This book completely blew me away—and I don’t say that lightly. Set in a richly layered dystopian world teeming with humans, enhanced semi-humans, mutants, AI, and even giants, it hooked me from page one and never let go.

What truly stood out was the balance: intense suspense followed by laugh-out-loud moments, mostly thanks to River—who I fell for the second he walked onto the page. His charm, quick wit, and undeniable chemistry with Josh brought a refreshing lightness to the story. Their journey from allies to friends to lovers was done so well, and the spice? Just the perfect cherry on top.

“Stop! I never want a last name if these are my options. Maybe you can lend me yours.”

“Josh Bennett, you are hurting my finger’s feelings! Would you do the same to my penis?” “Is it also sensitive?” “Very. Many emotions.” “Then I’ll do my best to stay on its good side.”

“Which parts of me do you like the most?” “Which part?” “Parts. There’s got to be more than one!”

The writing is incredibly smooth and immersive, packed with vivid descriptions that made it easy to fall into this complex world without feeling lost --- a real gift for worldbuilding and creating fascinating characters—main and side. I couldn’t help but adore Finn, Caden, Lyla… and now I’m quietly (okay, loudly) hoping we get more stories from this universe.

That ending though? That twist?! I need to know what happens next. Are Josh and River safe? Are the Giants really gone? What becomes of the Hives, the Free Cities, and the sinister General? And what’s the deal with Caden and Finn?

A.V. Shener, they really have found a place in my heart --and my heart really really wants more, pretty please? Please tell me this is just the beginning. ❤️🌈

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

"I’ve learned how to play the harmonica, and guess what? I’m already better than you.”

⚠️MM Romance
💥Enemies to Lovers
⚠️Fate of the World
💥Dystopian
⚠️Post Apocalyptic World
💥Lots of Action
⚠️Found Family

I have been dangerously close to a reading slump this month, so i waited until I was out of it to start this ARC. I'm so glad I did because I wasnt immediately pulled in, but after the time jump to present time I was done for.
The world building is so well done. The different types of environments that the humans live in- hives, free cities, and raider camps. The types of beings- humans, semi humans, mutants and New-Humans. It's so fascinating. And I love the premise they've created.

My favorite is the first thing River says to Josh- "Nice Butt". I actually laughed out loud. 😂 totally on point for his character. I instantly fell for his dry humor and straight forward personality. He's honest and just a breath of fresh air. He's so sweet with Josh.

Josh isn't the typical "army esque" trope. While he wants to do his duty and be apart of the defenders... he has a heart. Shown very early on when Finn is captured. When he first meets River he is of course apprehensive to trust him, but he uses what he knows and makes logical choices. I appreciated that about him.

Sometimes a good non angst book is just what you need. I loved the immediate benefit of the doubt if you will between Josh and River. They dont necessarily fully trust each other but there's a respect for River from Josh for saving his life and again Josh uses logic when listening to River and makes decisions based on that. You don't have the back and forth "ugh should I trust you". I LOVED it.

This book is well paced, the intrigue and suspense is captivating and the smut is perfectly done 🥵 the ending had me on pins and needles and I'm left so happily wanting more.
A.V. I am on my hands and knees BEGGING you for a sequel. Thank you for allowing me to be an ARC reader.

[Shyandmoodreader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sooo.... This is where I insert a GIF of Oliver Twist 'Please Sir, I Want Some More' right? 🥹 Because PLEASEEEEE I want some more!! This book was so good and really hit my 'post- apocalyptic' switch. I used to devour that trope when I was younger, so it was very nice to go back to my roots 😏.

If you're looking for something a little more action packed, interesting world building, romance between enemy factions, and two young men trying to save the world then look no further!

This is my first book by A.V. Shener but it definitely will NOT be my last 😍. I loved, loved, LOVED the story between River & Josh.

Honestly, River is such a cinnamon roll. For a 'killing machine' he's honestly so funny, sweet and seemingly innocent in some things. I cannot with how much I adored him 💗. Josh is also such a sweet character who doesn't let the hardships of this grueling world take that away from him, even though he portrays that it has. The two of them together were perfection 💯🥹. I felt like I was just sitting there stuck between laughing and heart eyes the entire time 🤣. The ending had my heart galloping a mile a minute, and made me want to screammm just to get the energy out 🔥.

The side characters are so dynamic as well! I loved Lyla and Dino! Especially Caden and Finn, and I will secretly hope for their own stories in the future 👀🙏. I'm also a fan of the not so nice character Buck and hope to get more from him as well 🫣 I'm a sucker for a good redemption novel, and a slight bad boy 😂🫠.

I don't want to give anything away so I'll stop gushing, but definitely check this out if you have a chance 😁. I'm so glad I got the chance to read it!!

[Daryn Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Semi-Human ARC Review:

Josh and River 💞

Semi-Human is set in a post-apocalyptic world where Josh lives in a community called a Hive. After a tragedy strikes the Hive when Josh is a child, he joins the Defenders to protect against more threats. Josh begins what is supposed to be a quick mission to possibly make contact with a Semi-Human, who is an enhanced being created for the purpose of cleaning the air of leftover radiation, but finds more than he could ever imagine. This story was mysterious, with the unearthing of what possible dangers are out there and what is for sure coming for those who don’t submit, all while River and Josh find understanding and love in each other.

River was a sweetie through and through, with a bubbliness that was contagious, all while carrying the world on his back. I’m so thrilled that Josh was able to see the glow that River has as well as the darker things weighing on River’s mind as they fight the horrors they face. I felt like the single pov worked really well for this story, Josh was an easy guy to root for! I did have a couple of sobbing moments, just couldn't help it at all.

I loved, those I would consider, the additional main cast of characters but even the villains had moments that showed facets of them that were complex or just wickedly vile. They all added to this book in ways that hurt, made me smile, and times where there was love amongst all the danger. Semi-Human was so impactful to me, River and Josh were just what was needed through all this violence. They are just too cute for words!

This is an instant love from me from beginning to end, I adored this book!

5/5 🌟