Champion

From the Ashes #2

by A.V. Shener

A year has passed since the fall of Las Vegas and the destruction of the New-Humans.

In the safety of the Hive Unity, Finn is treading carefully between his work for the assembly and his dark past as a Raider. When his ex-lover, Caden, returns to the Hive after losing his squad in battle, it becomes clear that a mysterious new force is rising in Denver, threatening the fragile balance between Colorado’s factions.

Finn and Caden are tasked with recruiting a powerful new ally, but an unexpected betrayal tears them apart. Running for his life, Finn stumbles down a rabbit hole of dark discoveries that reach all the way back to the day the world ended. If Finn is to face the governor of Denver and stop his diabolical plan, he must rely on old friends and unexpected allies, but with Caden’s life on the line, time is quickly running out.

Champion is the follow-up to the best-selling novel Semi-Human. It is a thrilling MM adventure set in a broken world that is slowly rising from the ashes.

Genres: M M Romance

433 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 28, 2026

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

[Catarina Águas · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC review

This book was the perfect ending to an awesome duet.
I was waiting for Finn and Caden's story and was not disapointed. Seeing how they grew to each other and into themselves warmed my heart.
Finn was so brave, so young and yet so full of courage. He loved Caden and wasn't afraid to let it be known.
Caden was strong but he could be vulnerable too. He loved Finn but after everything he didn't think they could be together after all. Glad Finn was there to set him straight.
I loved them as a couple and adored the secondary characters. The story was so good and the whole scenario was breathtaking. I just love this world and I'm so sad to see gone.
I would to see them 20 years in the future or something, it would be so good, them and Josh and River

[Bookandmischief06 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Champion by A.V. Shener is the second book in the From The Ashes series. This book is an MM Sci-Fi Romance in a post-apocalyptic world. In Champion, we pick up the story at the end of Semi-Human with Caden and Finn. Champion is not a standalone and reading book one is a necessity. There are numerous call backs, characters and crossover storylines from the previous book that move the plot of this book along.

I was so excited when the author announced we would be getting a sequel to Semi-Human. Book one was one of my top reads last year and I couldn’t wait to get more from these amazing characters. A.V. Shener has become one of my go to authors in the MM genre, most especially because of the amazing world building in a post-apocalyptic setting within this series. Champion was a stunning sequel and I struggled to even put it down.

I was so curious about Caden’s character during Semi-Human. As the reader, we got a lot of details of his early childhood and his relationship with Josh. In Champion, the story initially finds Caden once again on patrols as a Defender for the Unity Hive. Without missing a beat, we are immediately introduced to antagonists that plague the lands surrounding Unity. There is so much action within the first chapter that the story completely immerses the reader from the get go.

Shortly following Caden’s interactions while on patrol, we arrive back at Unity with Finn whom we also met in Semi-Human. Finn has become the right hand man to Dino (again, from book one) and in only a way Finn can, he’s made himself an indispensable asset not only to Dino but to Unity as a whole. As such, when a diplomatic trip is needed and Dino is unable to attend, he sends Finn in his stead. It’s on this trip that Finn and Caden will find more trouble than either of them could have possibly predicted.

The storyline between the MMCs is completely immeshed into the overarching plot line happening around them. These characters are living in a world where its life and death at nearly any moment and so the romance between the two MMCs was much more subtle and really left me feeling as if it progressed in a more real world way. It wasn’t forced or rushed, just purely organic. What I found more intriguing was how the internal dialogue throughout the book really showed that both MMCs prioritized the other but sometimes, their actions weren’t always able to show that priority. It just felt very real and very natural for any budding relationship being put through the wringer by things outside their control.

I could probably go on for a while about how much I loved this book. All of the characters that we loved from book one are here and heavily involved throughout the entire book. The plot development never stagnates and the character arcs for both MMCs was really well done. I gave this book 5 stars.

[Shyandmoodreader · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨ ARC Review ✨

What an EPIC sequel! I have been waiting ever so patiently for this one and let me tell you the wait was well worth it 😍.

The storyline and plot is honestly phenomenal and had me so invested? The only reason I didn't finish it in one sitting is because of work 🤣 even then I was trying to find ways to sneak to read it 🫣👀. Caden & Finn's love is hard fought and hard won, but oh so well deserved 💜💯.

If you loved Semi-Human then this won't disappoint you! There's still plenty of Josh & River scenes in this as well as they are still primary characters and integral to the plot 😘. This book focuses more on the well developed storyline, and the feelings between characters more so than the spice, but the tension and push/pull of Caden & Finn is also so good 🥵.

Finn may seem like a push over, or a simple man, but when push comes to shove he'll do anything for Caden. He's tough as steel and brave where it counts. Caden is a multi-layered character but your heart breaks for him, rages with him and cries alongside him and he undergoes his trials. Trust, the rage is real 💯. I wanted to reach through my phone and wrap him in a blanket burrito of protection. Thankfully he has his friends and Finn never gave up on him.

You definitely do NOT want to miss this sequel! I certainly hope there is more to come in the future, especially about Buck... I love him 🥹🫶.

[KendallshipsMM · Rating 5 out of 5]

Champion is a fantastic sequel and conclusion to the Semi-Human duology with exceptional worldbuilding and a gripping story.
After bombs and bio-weapons devastate the United States, survivors retreat underground into hives while synthetic semi-humans are created to clean radiation and restore the planet. The second book takes place after a war in Las Vegas and is set largely in Denver and the surrounding countryside, with portions unfolding in Hive Unity.
The worldbuilding here is outstanding. Mutants, semi-humans, giants, and reptilian humanoids coexist in a setting that feels immersive and thoughtfully constructed. I especially enjoyed the subtle conspiracy theory elements tied to Denver, underground civilizations, reptilians, and giants.
Finn and Caden, who appeared in the first book, step fully into the spotlight here. Their story involves arena fighting, survival, and political tension. The romance works well, but the broader narrative often takes precedence, which I appreciated. Sexuality isn’t treated as a defining issue in this world, and relationships form naturally based on connection rather than labels.
I also loved seeing River and Josh again, as they play a major role in this book and help bring the duology full circle.
Champion was intense, engaging, and deeply satisfying from beginning to end. I highly recommend reading both books in order.
Rating: 5 stars

[Jessie J melka · Rating 4 out of 5]

{Champion }
Arc review by Jessie Melka
___________•___________

Yet another adventure for our boys Shener has this most amazing talent where they can keep you engaged in the story with their writing and plotting to get us also emotionally sucked into the story and really care for the characters.

My heart feels so heavy now that I’ve read Champion I’m not ready to let the series go yet and especially not the boys and just when we are getting to know Timothy! I really want more with him

If you are going into this and are expecting pure romance, get that far away from your head this story is more invested in the sci-fi/action rather slowly focusing on the romance but do fear even if there is a lot of distance between them and all of the baggage and trauma they’re going through. They still end up with an extremely hard earned HEA.

Ever since I read semi human and we first saw the potential love between Finn and Caden let’s just say every time someone’s mentioned a cave of any form, they have been on my mind!

There love story is filled with complications between Finn finally finding a place to call home and wanting to stay to Caden going for months at a time on missions they decide to end their relationship to keep their heart safe, but when a new threat arises and Finn has to go on a diplomatic mission with Caden as his guard. Caden wants to get Finn back and he will try everything to do so but the new enemy has planted seats inside of him and he starts to doubt with how much of him is left

I want to round this off in a minute, but before then I would like to say thank you so much for the opportunity to read this. I am absolutely astonished by the pure talent the writer has.

I rated this book a whopping 4 out of 5 stars. This story is filled with action and combat a have to dose of pining. and a lot of lizards. ;)
but remember to form your own opinions and not just listen to me
Until next time, my loves…

Rating: 4/5
Spice: 2/5
Angst: 4/5
Would I read again:

(I received an advance copy for free and I’m leaving this review voluntarily)


🦎MM Sci-Fi
🗡️Opposites Attracts
🦎Mutations
🗡️Second Chance
🦎Post Apocalypse
🗡️War Is Coming!
___________•___________

[VicReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

𝙲𝚑𝚊𝚖𝚙𝚒𝚘𝚗

🄰🅁🄲 🅁🄴🅅🄸🄴🅆

5/5 ⭐️
1/5 🌶️

↓↓
After meeting Caden and Finn in Semi-Human, I HAD to have more of them. These two had me in a chokehold. There were times that I was angry, that I cried, that I was giddy and were moment's that were so intense that it had me on the edge of my seat holding my breath to see what was going to happen next. This book put me through it.

Oh my poor baby Caden and what he went through. He was so strong but vulnerable and sweet at the same time. He was put in to a pretty awful situation and had to do things that he would never think of doing in his life outside of the circumstances that he was in. He didn't give up though, he pushed through it and remembered who he was deep down and what he was fighting for to stay alive.

Finn, the man you are. He may come off as this sweet, innocent man and will let anyone walk over him, but damn, the things he would do and the lengths he would go to, to ensure that Caden was safe, protected and knew he was loved.

This was incredible, the world building, the villains, the heroes, the characters, the plot, everything was amazing. The new mutants, the semi-human's, the animal humanoids, they added so much more depth to the story. Finn and Caden had to fight so hard for their love and relationship.

I loved seeing so many of the characters from Semi-Human, along with some new ones as well. I know that this was only a duet, but damn, do I hope we get more in this world at some point.

𝕋𝕣𝕠𝕡𝕖𝕤 / 𝕎𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕥𝕠 𝔼𝕩𝕡𝕖𝕔𝕥
💚MM Post Apocalyptic
💚Second Chances
💚Fate of the World
💚Opposites Attract

[Marharyta · Rating 5 out of 5]

💕 Champion is a thrilling book. It’s less romance and very “battle for post-apocalyptic dominance”. We have a new villain, and I absolutely love Hector. Some might call him morally grey but you can tell that society and life experience is what has made him how he is. It’s what gives him such depth and complexity. He’s calculated and patient. But he’s far from evil.

A year has passed since book 1, and we find Caden and Finn have separated. For anyone who hasn’t read book 1, Semi-Human is not their story, but it is the beginning to their story. If you have read book 1, you will find Josh and River back in Champion! Yay!

Caden and Finn find themselves in that awkward place where lovers are leading such separate lives that they aren’t truly together but haven’t quite moved on either.

Unlike many second chance stories, their relationship isn’t filled with anger and hurt and betrayal, but more of a longing. The love is still there, but the ability to build a life together is the real challenge. Finn has made his home in the Hive. Indoors, safe, protected. Caden is a defender and always out on patrol, on mission; always in danger and far from home.

But now, they are together as Finn heads on a diplomatic assignment with Caden accompanying him for protection. Without the safety of the Hive, things turn sinister. Hector’s involvement sees terrifying changes in Caden that threaten not only his relationship with Finn but the lives of his own friends.

But the more we dig into Hector’s past, part of you begins to root for him as well. And you begin to wonder if it’s possible for everyone to have a happily ever after, even the villain?

[Chanel · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book two in the series, and I highly recommend starting with Semi Human first, as it lays the groundwork for the new world our characters are living in.

Caden and Finn are absolutely put through the wringer in this installment. They’re forced to face relentless challenges and not just within their relationship, but from the chaos unfolding around them.
A new threat emerges, one that’s cunning, calculating, and always one step ahead, causing challenges and danger at every turn.

What I really loved is that this book doesn’t rely solely on romance. While Caden and Finn’s relationship is at the heart of the story, there are so many layers woven throughout. It’s a battle between good and evil, a test of morality, and a deep exploration of the choices you’re willing to make when survival is on the line.

Both Caden and Finn are complex characters shaped by painful pasts, and watching them navigate the changes in their relationship after the battle was incredibly rewarding.
Despite everything, they’re sweet, and undeniably strong together. And it was so great to see fan favourites Josh and River again.

If you love sci-fi romance, dystopian worlds, and a second chance at love, all wrapped up in a high-stakes battle for survival of the world, this book is an easy recommendation.

[Brit · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC review - Champion by A.V. Shener
Rating: 4/5
Spice: 2/5

Before I started Champion, I had to go back and reread Semi-Human to get myself back into the amazing world A.V. created! Definitely recommend reading Semi-Human first, if you don’t you miss out on the world building that is vital to understanding what is going on in Champion.

This is an amazing story set a year after the events of Semi-Human and we get to see all of our favorite people again. The detail put into this just makes it so easy to slip into the world as if you’re right by their side.

While there is a romance between Caden and Finn, it’s not what the story is about. The romance behind the scenes is always there but the plot is the focus. Which works for Finn and Caden because no matter what, you always feel the connection between them.

At some points, I felt like I knew exactly what was about to happen and others felt like I had whiplash. I was on the edge of my seat throughout the whole book cheering our MMCs on. The found family vibes are strong and I loved seeing how protective they all are of each other.

Thank you, AV for the opportunity to review this ARC! Hopefully we’ll see more from Caden, Finn, River, and Josh in the future❤️‍🔥

[gab_e_reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a book... I must admit it took me a moment to get back into the story, but then it grabbed me and wouldn't let go! A.V. Shener lures you into a very special world full of science fiction magic and fantasy. The whole time, I could see everything vividly before my eyes.
Caden and Finn are two different personalities who complement each other so well. We see how they fight not only for freedom and peace, but also for a life together. It's impressive how each of them selflessly contributes to a happy ending, not only for themselves, but also for their friends and their Unity.
I was also fascinated to see how they deal with their "enemies"—there is never just hatred and rejection, but also room for vulnerable moments and even mutual understanding. That makes everything all the more intense for the reader.
It's a real pleasure to see familiar faces from the first episode again, and I feel a little wistful about leaving this world behind. But I'm glad to know that they've all found their happy ending ❤️. I wholeheartedly recommend that you let yourself be enchanted by this story as well!

[Brittany · Rating 5 out of 5]

Champion had me HOOKED from the very first chapter and never let go!!!

The opening immediately pulled me in—especially the shift in power between Hector and Caden. From there, the action, tension, and emotional moments kept getting bigger and before I knew it I was fully invested and constantly eager to see what would happen next.

I loved that this book focuses on Caden and Finn while still giving us meaningful moments with the characters from the first book, Semi Human. River and Josh are such favorites, and their balance here was perfect. We get just enough of their life, relationship, and friendships to feel connected without taking away from the main story. So many characters from this duet are close to my heart. I’ve cried over a couple and laughed so hard at others. It’s all consuming.

Caden’s POV was an absolute standout for me—especially his relationship with Hector and getting more of Hector’s backstory. The contrast between Caden’s impulsive, heart-led nature and Finn’s calm, big-picture thinking made their relationship even more powerful. And the arena scenes? Easily some of my favorite parts.

Caden and Finn’s chemistry was everything. Their humor, sarcasm, loyalty, and emotional connection felt so natural and genuine. Watching them grow together and face everything side by side had me completely in my feelings.

This book delivered action, heart, romance, and characters I truly care about. It’s a strong, emotional, and incredibly satisfying sequel, and I’m honestly so grateful this story exists. I loved every minute of it. Thank you AV! 🤩

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC Review ✨️

"In like wind,
Soft and slow.
Out like clouds,
Watch them go."

4/5⭐️
1.5/5🌶

•Second Chances
•Opposites Attract
•Fate of the World
•Post Apocalyptic Dystopian Romance
•Gladiator Style Battle


First of all, I highly recommend rereading Semi Human before starting Champion. (I definitely needed to go back and refresh my memory)

A.V. goes head first into the action in chapter one. Which shouldn't surprise me in the least. Lots of intrigue, packed with action, and the fate of the world in the balance. The characters and the world building was done so brilliantly.

I enjoyed getting to see so much of River and Josh. Timothy is a favorite of mine, I just adore that Nanny Spider. Revisiting old friendships and seeing new bonds being formed was lovely.

Caden and Finn really go through it. They are so strong and truly fight and win their happily ever after. This was an epic conclusion to this duology. I hope to see a spin off in the future someday but I will always be thankful I was able to immerse myself in this complex world.

[Dorian Moutry · Rating 4 out of 5]

The continuation of this remarkable saga, Champion, is a captivating sci-fi adventure romance that whisks you away to a barren and perilous world, decades after a nuclear war has eradicated life as it once was. In the present, we delve deeper into the world's functioning and discover how primitive life exists outside the bunkers, known as hives. New beings, semi-humans and mutants, struggle to find a home in the unpredictable and prejudiced world surrounding them. I was thrilled to continue exploring this world and its inhabitants, uncovering more about the origins of the semi-humans and mutants and how those outside the hive function in small, tight-knit communities. Finn and Caden go through so much that I cried and laughed while reading their story. I was excited to see characters from book one making appearances and being part of their story. I am hopeful of a book three and cannot wait to see what A.V. Shener creates next.

[Jasmin · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an absolute pleasure to jump back into this post apocalyptic world and go on another adventure. Champion was such an amazing follow up to the world and characters we got to know in Semi-Human. Camden and Finn faced so many challenges and scary moments in this book, but they are so protective of each other, they will endure a lot for one another. Their story captivated me from the start and I could not put it down, there was so much tension, suspense, plot twist and once again such a vivid picture being painted it reminded me once again why reading sci-fi, post apocalyptic story’s is so damn fun. I was really at the edge of my couch rooting for them 🙏🏼 also loved how much River and Josh cameos we got and how many of the other characters from Semi-Human were revisited, felt like a sweet see you again with old friends. Fantastic story, with so many sweet moments and even with the world about to go up in flames, Caden and his Finny managed so sneak in some spicy times. All around just a a great book!

[Madam Ra · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wanted to say a few good words about this book, because it kept me entertained for 3 days 🌸 first of all this is plot driven, once things are set in motion, there is no turning back. This is Caden and Finn story, you need to be familiar with book one to know what’s happening around here. Book two starts of with Finn helping Dino run the hive more or less and Caden being the protector that he is on a mission outside, where he meets destiny so to speak. After that eventful meeting, they are set on a journey, that includes kings, semi-humans, lots of action, new interesting beings. We even have a gladiator type of games.When I kid you not, this is action, drama on speed. I really loved it. Except the epilogue if you could call it that. I needed more “after”, more peace. Nevertheless amazing book.

[Sam Vautier · Rating 5 out of 5]

Was so excited to be back in this world! The world building is so fabulous and this book has a super interesting villain!

One year after the events in Las Vegas, Caden and Finn, who had something going on in the last book, now have a tense relationship even though they both still want each other. But Caden is committed to being a defender and is out of the hive all the time. But after his recent mission goes horribly, and a new war is on the rise, he accompanies Finn on a diplomatic mission to gain more allies.

Then everything goes sideways. Getting to see so many characters from the last book was so fun (I love River so much). Caden and Finn had to fight so hard for their happy ending, they are so sweet together.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you haven’t read Semi Human, I strongly recommend doing so before starting Champion, as much of the world-building is established in that first story.

While Champion gives us opportunities to revisit fan favorites River and Josh, the narrative is told through the dual perspectives of Caden and Finn—both of whom were introduced in Semi Human.

This is not a typical romance. Champion offers far more than a straightforward love story. It is a complex exploration of good versus evil, layered with moral ambiguity and a villain who is, at times, unsettlingly sympathetic.

If you’re looking to step away from hockey romance, this dystopian world is well worth the visit. You won’t regret it.

[Cara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Champion is the second and last book in the From the Ashes series

This is Finn and Caden's book. It begins a year after the events of the first book. Finn and Caden have let their relationship die because Caden spends more time away on missions and is unclear about his feelings and desires.

A new enemy appears, Hector, who massacres Caden's squadron right at the beginning. This is the starting point for the conclusion of the series. We see the relationships between the various groups that inhabit the devastated earth.

Hector is morally gray; he is not the typical villain. The book is more about action than romance. Nor is it a second chance story.

As a science fiction book with elements of romance, it is superb.

[Gene Michaels · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really loved this book. I’m not usually a sci-fi or dystopian romance reader, but after Semi-Human, I absolutely needed to know what happened to Finn and Caden. And the return of River (my favorite character) and Josh? Perfection.

The timeline at the beginning was a great touch and a much-appreciated refresher. The story moves fast, the stakes are high, and more than once I caught myself holding my breath as the guys were thrown into one intense situation after another.

An action-packed, emotionally satisfying, and fantastic conclusion to the From the Ashes series.

Bravo, Mr. Shener!

[Book.Dragon.Page1 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Last year I've read Semi-Human and absolutely loved it! When I heard there would be a book two I may have begged for an ARC and I'm so glad I did! Through this authors beautiful writing we are back in this amazing world and we see old friend again. I think this book is way more brutal and less sweet than the last one. Caden and Finn are great together but they need to fight so hard for their happily ever after. I really loved following them on their journey!

Thanks to the author for the ARC. All my opinions are my own..

[Bookish_twin_life · Rating 5 out of 5]

WHAT - A - RIDE!! This time it's Caden and Finn's turn. Together with their friends, they're fighting a new threat. And it's💥
Just like book one, this book is EPIC and so beautiful! Full of action and adventure, full of friendly and passionate love🥹 Their little found family, their strong emotional connection. It simply brought tears to our eyes🥹🫶🏼 WE LOVE THEM💚

A perfect duet, forever a favorite💚🥹👏🏼

[Sam Soeur-Wollen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another good MM romance set in a dystopian/apocalyptic time. The boys return in another adventure but this time with the spotlight on Caden and Finn. Josh and River make an appearance too. This time around, Caden and Finn must deal with a mutant name Hector looking for world domination and test Caden as a champion in the arena. He must fight like a Gladiator to prove his strength. Overall a good story with some good spice.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

The plot had me hooked. The tension, the battles, and the secrets just kept coming. Caden and Finn’s story showed they were willing to do whatever it took, and bringing the gang back together along the way made it even better.

I also adore all the side characters. River and Josh, of course, will always hold a special place in my heart. And TIMOTHY. 🕷️🖤

[Nic · Rating 4 out of 5]

I absolutely loved Semi-Human so was excited for Champion. It was definitely a good time. Loved the gladiator style theme. I liked Caden and Finn in Semi-Human but loved them in Champion. Definitely a book I'll reread at a later date to get a comfort dystopian fix.