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Heroes of New Vegas #1
Die Längste Nacht
Alles, was sie kannten, gibt es nicht mehr ...
Vielleicht sind die fünf Männer, die aus den Ruinen der Verwüstung auftauchen, die letzte Hoffnung der Menschheit, denn sie besitzen außergewöhnliche neue Fähigkeiten. Aber allein können sie in dieser verwüsteten Welt nicht überleben.
Wenn Dr. Elliott Drake nach einer fünfzigjährigen Zeitreise aus einer Höhle herausklettert, ist die Welt, die er kannte, verschwunden. Städte sind von einem Dschungel überwuchert, und was von der Zivilisation noch übrig ist, wird von unsterblichen Wesen, die mysteriöse Kristalle tragen, unterdrückt. Aber was noch beunruhigender ist: Elliott hat eine außergewöhnliche Fähigkeit erworben - die Kraft zu heilen.
Aber auch diese Gabe kann in einer Welt, der die Technologie und Infrastruktur der Vergangenheit fehlen, ein zweischneidiges Schwert sein.
Jade, die von den unsterblichen Wesen gefangen gehalten wurde, lebt schon seit Jahren im Untergrund. Aber jetzt ist sie fest entschlossen sich dem Kampf gegen die Kontrolle ihrer ehemaligen Entführer anzuschließen. Sie vertraut niemandem ... aber als sie Elliott trifft, beginnt er ihren Abwehrmechanismus und die Mauern, die sie so sorgfältig um sich herum aufbaute, niederzureißen.
Doch der mysteriöse Arzt scheint selbst ein paar dunkle Geheimnisse zu hüten. Jade setzt ihr Leben aufs Spiel, um mit Elliott eine Gruppe junger Menschen zu retten – aber wird sie ihm ihr Herz anvertrauen können?
Und wird Elliott in dieser neuen, verwüsteten Welt einen Platz für sich selbst - eine Heimat -finden?
Vielleicht sind die fünf Männer, die aus den Ruinen der Verwüstung auftauchen, die letzte Hoffnung der Menschheit, denn sie besitzen außergewöhnliche neue Fähigkeiten. Aber allein können sie in dieser verwüsteten Welt nicht überleben.
Wenn Dr. Elliott Drake nach einer fünfzigjährigen Zeitreise aus einer Höhle herausklettert, ist die Welt, die er kannte, verschwunden. Städte sind von einem Dschungel überwuchert, und was von der Zivilisation noch übrig ist, wird von unsterblichen Wesen, die mysteriöse Kristalle tragen, unterdrückt. Aber was noch beunruhigender ist: Elliott hat eine außergewöhnliche Fähigkeit erworben - die Kraft zu heilen.
Aber auch diese Gabe kann in einer Welt, der die Technologie und Infrastruktur der Vergangenheit fehlen, ein zweischneidiges Schwert sein.
Jade, die von den unsterblichen Wesen gefangen gehalten wurde, lebt schon seit Jahren im Untergrund. Aber jetzt ist sie fest entschlossen sich dem Kampf gegen die Kontrolle ihrer ehemaligen Entführer anzuschließen. Sie vertraut niemandem ... aber als sie Elliott trifft, beginnt er ihren Abwehrmechanismus und die Mauern, die sie so sorgfältig um sich herum aufbaute, niederzureißen.
Doch der mysteriöse Arzt scheint selbst ein paar dunkle Geheimnisse zu hüten. Jade setzt ihr Leben aufs Spiel, um mit Elliott eine Gruppe junger Menschen zu retten – aber wird sie ihm ihr Herz anvertrauen können?
Und wird Elliott in dieser neuen, verwüsteten Welt einen Platz für sich selbst - eine Heimat -finden?
360 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 1, 2000
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 254 reviews
January 23, 2010
This is going to be a really hard one to review, because it's going to be hard not to give away any spoilers, and because there's so much going on. As it often is with first books in a series, there's a lot the author has to do to set up the story, but Joss Ware does a pretty fine job laying the groundwork for the Awakening Heroes series. And BTW, that is an excellent and appropriate name for the series, because the hero of this book turned out to be a real HERO in every sense of the word.
Basically the story is this: It's June 6, 2010, and three friends who met and bonded on a humanitarian trip to Haiti five years ago are exploring a cave near Sedona, Arizona. The three friends are Dr. Elliot Drake, a 30 year old ER physician from Chicago; Wyatt, a 32 yr old firefighter/paramedic from Colorado; and Englishman Quent, a rich playboy and heir to his industrialist father's fortunes, with an avid interest in antiquities and dangerous adventures. Along with their local guides Lenny and 'Fence', the three are exploring the cave when all hell breaks loose. A cataclysmic earthquake-like event happens, complete with strange smells, sounds, and sizzling shocks of energy, sending boulders tumbling, the Earth shaking and splitting, and then...darkness. When the five of them come to, it's 50 years later, and not one of them has aged a day. And a few of them now have some extra 'powers'...
The story picks up 6 months later, and we find out a few things. Lenny, one of the guides, dies from an infection that Elliot may have inadvertently given to him with his special 'power' that could also be a curse; Quent has special abilities that sometimes leave him terrified; there was another survivor from the cave disaster--a mysterious man named Simon. Most of the world as we know it is gone, swallowed up by the oceans. There are no modern conveniences anymore--no working telephones, cars, stores, roads, electricity, etc.--the world has reverted to something you'd see in the 1800s. There are few survivors from the original disaster (called the 'Change')--most of the inhabitants of the Earth are less than 50 years old. The world is now controlled by immortal-like, evil beings called "Strangers" whose agenda isn't totally clear, and who live on a sort of "Lost-City-of Atlantis" continent that sprung up in the Pacific Ocean. There are also zombie-like creatures (gangas) that come out at night, moaning "Ruuuth...ruuuth". And the men are trying to make their way to a settlement called 'Envy'...
When the men stumble upon a group of teenagers being attacked by the gangas, they step in to help, and then a beautiful woman (Jade) on horseback rides in and saves the day. Elliot is instantly smitten by this brave, gorgeous woman--who is she? Does she live in Envy? Can she tell them what has happened and if there's any hope for civilization? Elliot is not even sure if he wants to live in this unfamiliar, terrifying new world, but God must have saved him for a reason. And with Jade's help, he just might discover the reason.
Wow, this highly imaginative book was one thrill ride after another. There was a lot to tell and explain and keep track of, and I actually found myself taking notes just to keep everything straight. Lots of names and facts get tossed out right away so the reader has to be on his/her toes to determine who are the good guys, who are the bad guys, and figure out if this apocalypse was a man-made occurance, done by aliens, or something else? I loved the whole end-of-the-world scenario--it reminded me a little of my favorite Stephen King book (The Stand). I loved the whole scavenge-for-clothes and-things-you could use vibe. I loved when Elliot and his buddies finally made it to the walled city of 'Envy' (just wait until you discover where 'Envy' really is) and its communal way of living. I loved meeting the older man Lou Waxnicki--a computer geek from 2010 and one of the brains behind the new civilization. I loved seeing how the people of 2060 tried to adapt and live without the conveniences that we now have. Of course most of them didn't know what they were missing, so it was hardest for men like Elliot and his buddies (who all lost their families) to adapt.
The fight between the good guys and the Strangers has just begun in this book, and no way is it over yet. There's at least two more books in the series, and the author has dropped some big hints about who is behind the destruction of the earth as we know it and why. This book just covers the tip of the iceberg of this post apocalyptic world, and it left me with lots of questions, and I must say I can hardly wait to read the next one in the series Embrace the Night Eternal.
If there's one thing I felt was short changed a wee bit in this story, it was the romance. I understand how the romance could get lost in the shuffle in the first book, since there's so much to set up and explain for the whole series. I was just hoping to see a little bit more, because when Jade and Elliot finally got together (after 250 pages!), they sizzled. Of course Jade had some control issues due to a terrifying couple of years in her past, so she wasn't immediately ready for the attraction she felt for Elliot, or his sometimes possessive streak, but when they worked things out...whew! Elliot was one fine man--sexy, heroic, courageous...and was very deserving of a HEA (as was Jade), and I was satisfied with his character's journey. And Jade and Elliot's romance wasn't the only one brewing in this book--Quent had a very hot encounter with his future lady, and this one almost upstaged Elliot/Jade. We'll have to see if this encounter turns into something more in his book (Abandon the Night).
So, for readers (both male and female) looking for a new, exciting, imaginative series with a touch of the paranormal, lots of action, little bits of horror (those gangas are scary!), and (hopefully way more) romance, you can't go wrong with the Awakening Heroes series. There's lots of questions left unanswered in this one, and I can't wait to uncover the answers. For me, I think this book might be even better with a second read, but as it stands now I'd have to rate it a very solid 4 stars.
Basically the story is this: It's June 6, 2010, and three friends who met and bonded on a humanitarian trip to Haiti five years ago are exploring a cave near Sedona, Arizona. The three friends are Dr. Elliot Drake, a 30 year old ER physician from Chicago; Wyatt, a 32 yr old firefighter/paramedic from Colorado; and Englishman Quent, a rich playboy and heir to his industrialist father's fortunes, with an avid interest in antiquities and dangerous adventures. Along with their local guides Lenny and 'Fence', the three are exploring the cave when all hell breaks loose. A cataclysmic earthquake-like event happens, complete with strange smells, sounds, and sizzling shocks of energy, sending boulders tumbling, the Earth shaking and splitting, and then...darkness. When the five of them come to, it's 50 years later, and not one of them has aged a day. And a few of them now have some extra 'powers'...
The story picks up 6 months later, and we find out a few things. Lenny, one of the guides, dies from an infection that Elliot may have inadvertently given to him with his special 'power' that could also be a curse; Quent has special abilities that sometimes leave him terrified; there was another survivor from the cave disaster--a mysterious man named Simon. Most of the world as we know it is gone, swallowed up by the oceans. There are no modern conveniences anymore--no working telephones, cars, stores, roads, electricity, etc.--the world has reverted to something you'd see in the 1800s. There are few survivors from the original disaster (called the 'Change')--most of the inhabitants of the Earth are less than 50 years old. The world is now controlled by immortal-like, evil beings called "Strangers" whose agenda isn't totally clear, and who live on a sort of "Lost-City-of Atlantis" continent that sprung up in the Pacific Ocean. There are also zombie-like creatures (gangas) that come out at night, moaning "Ruuuth...ruuuth". And the men are trying to make their way to a settlement called 'Envy'...
When the men stumble upon a group of teenagers being attacked by the gangas, they step in to help, and then a beautiful woman (Jade) on horseback rides in and saves the day. Elliot is instantly smitten by this brave, gorgeous woman--who is she? Does she live in Envy? Can she tell them what has happened and if there's any hope for civilization? Elliot is not even sure if he wants to live in this unfamiliar, terrifying new world, but God must have saved him for a reason. And with Jade's help, he just might discover the reason.
Wow, this highly imaginative book was one thrill ride after another. There was a lot to tell and explain and keep track of, and I actually found myself taking notes just to keep everything straight. Lots of names and facts get tossed out right away so the reader has to be on his/her toes to determine who are the good guys, who are the bad guys, and figure out if this apocalypse was a man-made occurance, done by aliens, or something else? I loved the whole end-of-the-world scenario--it reminded me a little of my favorite Stephen King book (The Stand). I loved the whole scavenge-for-clothes and-things-you could use vibe. I loved when Elliot and his buddies finally made it to the walled city of 'Envy' (just wait until you discover where 'Envy' really is) and its communal way of living. I loved meeting the older man Lou Waxnicki--a computer geek from 2010 and one of the brains behind the new civilization. I loved seeing how the people of 2060 tried to adapt and live without the conveniences that we now have. Of course most of them didn't know what they were missing, so it was hardest for men like Elliot and his buddies (who all lost their families) to adapt.
The fight between the good guys and the Strangers has just begun in this book, and no way is it over yet. There's at least two more books in the series, and the author has dropped some big hints about who is behind the destruction of the earth as we know it and why. This book just covers the tip of the iceberg of this post apocalyptic world, and it left me with lots of questions, and I must say I can hardly wait to read the next one in the series Embrace the Night Eternal.
If there's one thing I felt was short changed a wee bit in this story, it was the romance. I understand how the romance could get lost in the shuffle in the first book, since there's so much to set up and explain for the whole series. I was just hoping to see a little bit more, because when Jade and Elliot finally got together (after 250 pages!), they sizzled. Of course Jade had some control issues due to a terrifying couple of years in her past, so she wasn't immediately ready for the attraction she felt for Elliot, or his sometimes possessive streak, but when they worked things out...whew! Elliot was one fine man--sexy, heroic, courageous...and was very deserving of a HEA (as was Jade), and I was satisfied with his character's journey. And Jade and Elliot's romance wasn't the only one brewing in this book--Quent had a very hot encounter with his future lady, and this one almost upstaged Elliot/Jade. We'll have to see if this encounter turns into something more in his book (Abandon the Night).
So, for readers (both male and female) looking for a new, exciting, imaginative series with a touch of the paranormal, lots of action, little bits of horror (those gangas are scary!), and (hopefully way more) romance, you can't go wrong with the Awakening Heroes series. There's lots of questions left unanswered in this one, and I can't wait to uncover the answers. For me, I think this book might be even better with a second read, but as it stands now I'd have to rate it a very solid 4 stars.
April 27, 2017
4.5 Stars!
I'm a big fan of Colleen Gleason and when I found out she was writing a new series under a new name, a post-apocalyptic zombie romance no less, I knew I had to read it as soon as it came out. I loved this book and I can't wait for the sequel, but there were a few things that bothered me and kept me from giving it the full five stars.
A small group of men went hiking in Arizona and entered a cave, only to be caught in some sort of earthquake. When they emerged, the whole world had changed. Civilization as they knew it was gone and the world had become overgrown by nature. They come to find out that they had been asleep for 50 years, not aging, and everyone they knew was dead and gone. And at night, strange zombie-like creatures come out at night, moaning for Ruuutthh...
This story revolves around the relationship of Dr. Elliot Drake, one of the men from the past, and Jade, a girl from the current world. The story is about them at its core, but there's so much more going on. They way the plot reveals itself bit by bit is fascinating and I was eating it up. Right off the bat you want to know why the world is the way it is, who Jade really is, why did the group of men survive and how did they not age? It's all pretty crazy at first but not to the point where it's overwhelming.
The zombie-like creatures, the gangas, are scary and menacing and I was reminded of the video game Resident Evil while I was reading the fight scenes with them. I think this book would make a great video game, actually! There's romance, action, horror, science fiction, and suspense all rolled into this one book. I loved just about every minute of it.
There were a few things that bothered me though. Having sex while a body is sitting in a bath tub in the next room over is not sexy. That really turned me off. Also, I'm kind of worried about who and what the villains are, I'm afraid it might end up being a little cheesy. When I first read about where their origins were from I cringed. But, that mystery wasn't wrapped up in this book so I'll have to wait for the next to see if I get some more answers.
That aside, I enjoyed it a lot. I think it's crazy how Ware managed to meld so many different genres into one book, but I love her for it!
I'm a big fan of Colleen Gleason and when I found out she was writing a new series under a new name, a post-apocalyptic zombie romance no less, I knew I had to read it as soon as it came out. I loved this book and I can't wait for the sequel, but there were a few things that bothered me and kept me from giving it the full five stars.
A small group of men went hiking in Arizona and entered a cave, only to be caught in some sort of earthquake. When they emerged, the whole world had changed. Civilization as they knew it was gone and the world had become overgrown by nature. They come to find out that they had been asleep for 50 years, not aging, and everyone they knew was dead and gone. And at night, strange zombie-like creatures come out at night, moaning for Ruuutthh...
This story revolves around the relationship of Dr. Elliot Drake, one of the men from the past, and Jade, a girl from the current world. The story is about them at its core, but there's so much more going on. They way the plot reveals itself bit by bit is fascinating and I was eating it up. Right off the bat you want to know why the world is the way it is, who Jade really is, why did the group of men survive and how did they not age? It's all pretty crazy at first but not to the point where it's overwhelming.
The zombie-like creatures, the gangas, are scary and menacing and I was reminded of the video game Resident Evil while I was reading the fight scenes with them. I think this book would make a great video game, actually! There's romance, action, horror, science fiction, and suspense all rolled into this one book. I loved just about every minute of it.
There were a few things that bothered me though. Having sex while a body is sitting in a bath tub in the next room over is not sexy. That really turned me off. Also, I'm kind of worried about who and what the villains are, I'm afraid it might end up being a little cheesy. When I first read about where their origins were from I cringed. But, that mystery wasn't wrapped up in this book so I'll have to wait for the next to see if I get some more answers.
That aside, I enjoyed it a lot. I think it's crazy how Ware managed to meld so many different genres into one book, but I love her for it!
September 7, 2012
I liked this book WAY more than I was expecting. Don’t get me wrong, it was recommended by someone I trust so I knew I’d like it, I just didn’t expect to love it as much as I did. Why? First, because I have never read any Dystopian novels (well, not since the Chrysalids in High School) and the description just didn’t appeal to me. That sounds terrible, but I’m being honest. I would have never read this book based on the blurb. I only read it because it was a good friend I trust who recommended it—thank you, T’irla. Second, because of the nature of the story I expected a lot of world building—and sometimes a lot of world building equals boring. I fully expected to have to “get through” book one in order to start enjoying the story by book two. Well, that was not the case in Beyond the Night.
Joss Ware has a talent, that’s for sure. She doesn’t just dump a ton of information on the reader in the beginning to introduce her world. She also doesn’t leave you hanging for information either. She has found the perfect balance of telling her story and building the picture she wants us to see, without boring the reader to death. Fantastic job Ms. Ware!
The characters were all so unique and interesting; different personalities and different backgrounds all coming together in a new world and working together to rebuild. And I absolutely loved that our hero and heroine find love under the circumstances. I literally felt butterflies in my belly in parts—and considering what was going on around them: amazing. There was also a lot of good tension. Romantic tension, suspenseful oh-my-god-are-they-going-to-get-out-of-this-alive-tension, and let’s not forget sexual tension.
Overall, I really recommend this book to everyone. I don’t think you have to like paranormal or dystopian to enjoy this book. It’s got a fantastic story line, good characters, a lot of suspense, and romance. What’s not to like? I can’t wait to get to book two.
February 6, 2010
I was so excited to find a book combining so many unique elements that I love; post-apocalyptic mayhem, adventure, paranormal romance and zombies. How could it disappoint, right? Unfortunately, after a promising start, this book completely fell apart.
For the first 75 pages, I was riveted to this story. It was only after the band of survivors made their way to the city of Envy (a barren version of Las Vegas) that things went south for me. The story became less a zombie ass-kicking adventure, and more a retread of cliched para-romance themes. I won't get into specifics, since I don't want to spoil the 'twists' for anyone who plans on reading this, but I will just say that I rolled my eyes several times. And I have the say the last third of this book worked on my patience, and there was a LOT of skimming. To be honest, I was very happy to see this novel come to an end, which is unfortunate considering how excited I was when I began this book. :(
For the first 75 pages, I was riveted to this story. It was only after the band of survivors made their way to the city of Envy (a barren version of Las Vegas) that things went south for me. The story became less a zombie ass-kicking adventure, and more a retread of cliched para-romance themes. I won't get into specifics, since I don't want to spoil the 'twists' for anyone who plans on reading this, but I will just say that I rolled my eyes several times. And I have the say the last third of this book worked on my patience, and there was a LOT of skimming. To be honest, I was very happy to see this novel come to an end, which is unfortunate considering how excited I was when I began this book. :(
February 18, 2010
I thought this book was really slow to start, and was basically forcing myself to read hoping it would get better. When I reached the 125 page point things had started to pick up, but I realized that I didn't care what was going on. The zombie like creatures could have gotten all of the characters and it wouldn't matter to me as this book just couldn't hold my interest.
July 29, 2011
Particulièrement mauvais!
Il passe 50 ans dans une sorte de stase, mais à son réveil, il n'a qu'une seule pensée: "zut, 50 ans que je n'ai pas utilisé mon spaghetti, ça fait long je n'en peux plus!". Donc forcément, la 1ère femme qui passe et montre un peu de peau l'excite comme un fou. Malheureusement, cela tombe sur Jade (bien qu'il la prenne pour la putain de Babylon, oui il est un romantique), et entre eux il y a une tension sexuelle omniprésente et lourde au possible. Cela n'en finit pas jusqu'à ce qu'il réussisse enfin à conclure, et la tu te dis ouf, enfin débarrassé, parce que tu n'en peux plus de l'entendre rabâcher l'état dans lequel la pauvre fille le met
M'enfin, l'auteure a tout de même essayé d'implanter un décor post apocalyptique assez bien présenté (je voyais les scènes de désolation et les monstres comme si j'y étais; merci "je suis une légende" ^^ ), mais cela ne sauve pas l'histoire, qui reste creuse, molle et pas trop prenante.
Il passe 50 ans dans une sorte de stase, mais à son réveil, il n'a qu'une seule pensée: "zut, 50 ans que je n'ai pas utilisé mon spaghetti, ça fait long je n'en peux plus!". Donc forcément, la 1ère femme qui passe et montre un peu de peau l'excite comme un fou. Malheureusement, cela tombe sur Jade (bien qu'il la prenne pour la putain de Babylon, oui il est un romantique), et entre eux il y a une tension sexuelle omniprésente et lourde au possible. Cela n'en finit pas jusqu'à ce qu'il réussisse enfin à conclure, et la tu te dis ouf, enfin débarrassé, parce que tu n'en peux plus de l'entendre rabâcher l'état dans lequel la pauvre fille le met
M'enfin, l'auteure a tout de même essayé d'implanter un décor post apocalyptique assez bien présenté (je voyais les scènes de désolation et les monstres comme si j'y étais; merci "je suis une légende" ^^ ), mais cela ne sauve pas l'histoire, qui reste creuse, molle et pas trop prenante.
November 30, 2020
↠2.5+
I think this is my most re-read book. A few years ago when I read it, and re-read it, I liked it, it’s still interesting, but my tastes have changed a bit, and now I like books with better writing. However, considering this was written in 2000, I’m shocked because it’s not that bad as I would expect this sub-genre to be.
I liked the dystopian world, and the plot was interesting. As I mentioned, the writing was not the best, but I’ve read way worse. All in all, it was okay, and I’ll be checking at least the second book.
I think this is my most re-read book. A few years ago when I read it, and re-read it, I liked it, it’s still interesting, but my tastes have changed a bit, and now I like books with better writing. However, considering this was written in 2000, I’m shocked because it’s not that bad as I would expect this sub-genre to be.
I liked the dystopian world, and the plot was interesting. As I mentioned, the writing was not the best, but I’ve read way worse. All in all, it was okay, and I’ll be checking at least the second book.
August 23, 2011
So thankful to Kristie(J) and Nath for bringing this series to my attention. I've been getting into the post-apocalyptic/dystopian genre for awhile now. However, most of what I've read has been of the YA variety, aside from a few adult titles, like The Road by Cormac McCarthy. So I was uberexcited to hear that this series combined both post-apocalyptic AND romance.
Part Resident Evil, part I Am Legend, throw in a little Atlantis conspiracy theory and add romance and you've got yourself the beginning of a fabulous new series! I really enjoyed this book, not necessarily for the romance but mostly for Ware's world building. As readers we're being introduced to this new version of our world after a catastrophic geological phenomena that remains a mystery. I'm really anxious to learn more about what, or who, caused this catastrophe that basically wiped out the planet. This bit of mystery and intrigue extends to both the Rip Van Winkle clan ( Why were they zonked out for 50 years? Why do they have new-found powers?) and to the Strangers (Who are they? Are they responsible for the apocalypse? What do they have planned next?) So many questions! I can't wait to find out the answers in the following books!
I rarely find the first book in a series to be my favorite (the exception being Outlander by Diana Gabaldon), especially in sci-fi/fantsay/UF mostly because the first book is usually setting up the entire world for the reader. I usually find the romance to be a little lacking in the first of a series. This was the case with Beyond the Night. Don't get me wrong I enjoyed the romance between Jade and Elliot but one of the reasons I love reading a series is because authors often give characters a story arc that span several books. Some readers don't like this. I love it. I feel like I'm invested in these characters and usually enjoy their stories the most. Unfortunately, I lacked this connection with Elliot and Jade. The sexy bits are hot but I'm more interested in find the answers to the above mentioned questions and learning more about Elliot's companions.
All in all this book lived up to my expectations. I'm so glad there's a post-apocalyptic romance series! I can't wait to pick up the next book!
The Envy Chronicles in order:
1. Beyond the Night
2. Embrace the Night Eternal
3. Abandon the Night
Part Resident Evil, part I Am Legend, throw in a little Atlantis conspiracy theory and add romance and you've got yourself the beginning of a fabulous new series! I really enjoyed this book, not necessarily for the romance but mostly for Ware's world building. As readers we're being introduced to this new version of our world after a catastrophic geological phenomena that remains a mystery. I'm really anxious to learn more about what, or who, caused this catastrophe that basically wiped out the planet. This bit of mystery and intrigue extends to both the Rip Van Winkle clan ( Why were they zonked out for 50 years? Why do they have new-found powers?) and to the Strangers (Who are they? Are they responsible for the apocalypse? What do they have planned next?) So many questions! I can't wait to find out the answers in the following books!
I rarely find the first book in a series to be my favorite (the exception being Outlander by Diana Gabaldon), especially in sci-fi/fantsay/UF mostly because the first book is usually setting up the entire world for the reader. I usually find the romance to be a little lacking in the first of a series. This was the case with Beyond the Night. Don't get me wrong I enjoyed the romance between Jade and Elliot but one of the reasons I love reading a series is because authors often give characters a story arc that span several books. Some readers don't like this. I love it. I feel like I'm invested in these characters and usually enjoy their stories the most. Unfortunately, I lacked this connection with Elliot and Jade. The sexy bits are hot but I'm more interested in find the answers to the above mentioned questions and learning more about Elliot's companions.
All in all this book lived up to my expectations. I'm so glad there's a post-apocalyptic romance series! I can't wait to pick up the next book!
The Envy Chronicles in order:
1. Beyond the Night
2. Embrace the Night Eternal
3. Abandon the Night
November 17, 2016
I really liked the plot of the book. It was interesting and captivating, with the crystals, the ragnas, and the strange powers Elliott and he four men that was with him in the cave suddenly has. And I really want to know more about how and why the destruction of the world happened. Especially as it seems it was man-made.
Unfortunately the romance wasn’t as good as I was hoping for. Mostly probably because of my issues with Jade.
Jade just didn’t work for me. I liked that she was strong and controlling, but I didn’t like the fact that she used her looks and her body to get what she wanted. Especially not with her past, which was quite heartbreaking.
I did like Elliott, and the guys that survived with him.
The world was definitely the best part about this book, and I will be continuing with the series, because I want to know what happens with the other guys, and hopefully we will find out why the destruction of the world happened.
July 9, 2022
Fascinating fast-paced read about a man who wakes up after a 50-year sleep to find the most of the world destroyed, and the Pacific Ocean lapping at Las Vegas. He teams up with a woman fighting against the Strangers, powerful beings who may have caused the catastrophe. Oh, and zombies are running wild.
A really, really creative and unique story. Heart-pounding!
A really, really creative and unique story. Heart-pounding!
July 1, 2019
I was really interested in reading this, a paranormal in dystopian setting. The world building lacked a bit. There were lots of questions about 'Strangers' and how they triggered the apocalypse. Five people woke from a half a decade of sleep and two of them acquired paranormal talents. I was looking forward to exploring more of this new world but sadly it got eclipsed by a very weak romance. I wish the authors could put more emphasis on paranormal aspect rather than romance. I rushed through the romance part. Hopefully there will be information about the 'Cult of Atlantis' in the next book.
December 13, 2016
Five reasons to grab your earbuds and listen to Beyond the Night
In 2010 most of the world's inhabitant died. Not by a virus or natural disaster nor was it a war. An unknown group referred to as the "Strangers" appeared shortly after in small numbers and began taking over. These strangers are immortals wearing odd crystals. Strange zombie-like creatures known as Gangas roam the planet. These oversized monsters, appear at night and have razor sharp claws. They all moan the same message.
Our story begins fifty years later when Dr. Elliott Drake emerges from a cave with friends to discover they have traveled in time and the world as they know it is gone. As an added twist Drake discovers he can heal with his touch. What unfolds is a dystopian, apocalyptic, zombie, paranormal romance mix up.
Beyond the Night offers suspense, horror, a little bit of mystery and even some heat. The danger will keep you on edge. As we get to know all the players I was never quite sure of everyone's intentions. Most of our time is spent in the human settlement town known as Envy. We get everything from political plays to boarder patrol as this group protects their own. The town is well established and even boasts a bar with nightly entertainment.
The story isn't perfect, but I was curious about the world and its secrets. I struggled with Drake's emerging Alpha tendencies, and the relationship he had with Jade Kapiza. These aspects pulled me from the other threads that I found fascinating. Jade was a bit of a mystery and a total badass. She is a loner hiding from something but joins up with Drake and a relationship develops. Both characters have secrets, and I will be curious to discover them.
Ware laid the groundwork for the Envy Chronicles revealing enough to hook me and lay the foundation for questions that need to be answered. The ending wrapped up nicely while leaving the door open for the next book in the series.
This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Book Reviewer
In 2010 most of the world's inhabitant died. Not by a virus or natural disaster nor was it a war. An unknown group referred to as the "Strangers" appeared shortly after in small numbers and began taking over. These strangers are immortals wearing odd crystals. Strange zombie-like creatures known as Gangas roam the planet. These oversized monsters, appear at night and have razor sharp claws. They all moan the same message.
Our story begins fifty years later when Dr. Elliott Drake emerges from a cave with friends to discover they have traveled in time and the world as they know it is gone. As an added twist Drake discovers he can heal with his touch. What unfolds is a dystopian, apocalyptic, zombie, paranormal romance mix up.
Beyond the Night offers suspense, horror, a little bit of mystery and even some heat. The danger will keep you on edge. As we get to know all the players I was never quite sure of everyone's intentions. Most of our time is spent in the human settlement town known as Envy. We get everything from political plays to boarder patrol as this group protects their own. The town is well established and even boasts a bar with nightly entertainment.
The story isn't perfect, but I was curious about the world and its secrets. I struggled with Drake's emerging Alpha tendencies, and the relationship he had with Jade Kapiza. These aspects pulled me from the other threads that I found fascinating. Jade was a bit of a mystery and a total badass. She is a loner hiding from something but joins up with Drake and a relationship develops. Both characters have secrets, and I will be curious to discover them.
Ware laid the groundwork for the Envy Chronicles revealing enough to hook me and lay the foundation for questions that need to be answered. The ending wrapped up nicely while leaving the door open for the next book in the series.
This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Book Reviewer
September 27, 2025
Purch Amazon Jan. 5, 2018
Beyond the Night by Joss Ware
Genres: Adult, Fantasy, Romance, Sci-fi
2.75 Stars
Quite a few editing errors.
It is a good story, but there is repetitiveness.
I hate repetition.
I had trouble staying involved in the story.
Although the characters are interesting is was hard to feel connected to them throughout the story.
One of many reasons is it jumps between scenes.
There were times when there was a lot of action. Then large sections that dragged with nothing happening.
I'm unsure about this author.
Beyond the Night by Joss Ware
Genres: Adult, Fantasy, Romance, Sci-fi
2.75 Stars
Quite a few editing errors.
It is a good story, but there is repetitiveness.
I hate repetition.
I had trouble staying involved in the story.
Although the characters are interesting is was hard to feel connected to them throughout the story.
One of many reasons is it jumps between scenes.
There were times when there was a lot of action. Then large sections that dragged with nothing happening.
I'm unsure about this author.
Want to read
July 11, 2019🎁 FREE on iBooks today (7/11/2019)! 🎁
October 17, 2017
Actual rating 4.5
Wow, I haven't enjoyed a book like this in a long time! It was packed with action and a romance that had me swooning for days. I normally don't read post-apocalyptic/dystopian books, but since it was free and I was curious, I gave it a shot. I'm so glad I did because I could not stop reading it! It gave a different theory on how the "world" got destroyed and I liked that. I also loved Elliot and Jade together. They were perfect together, helping each other out, and their flirting was spot on. I can't wait to read about Simon next.
Wow, I haven't enjoyed a book like this in a long time! It was packed with action and a romance that had me swooning for days. I normally don't read post-apocalyptic/dystopian books, but since it was free and I was curious, I gave it a shot. I'm so glad I did because I could not stop reading it! It gave a different theory on how the "world" got destroyed and I liked that. I also loved Elliot and Jade together. They were perfect together, helping each other out, and their flirting was spot on. I can't wait to read about Simon next.
September 13, 2017
It was ok. Interesting set up so I may go to book 2.
May 18, 2015
YES! Finally a new series I can sink my teeth into. It’s feels like it’s been a while since I’ve gotten hold of a really good series. I knew 1/3 of the way in I was going to read the entire Envy Chronicles. Beyond the Night is exactly what I needed to get over the ho hum ‘too much romance not enough action’ slump I have found myself in.
There are usually three things I want in a story to make me happy. A good plot, good characters, and action/suspense that keeps me guessing. Beyond the Night has all three. I’m not going into details because frankly, there are a lot of layers that need to be discovered as they happen. And that is what I loved about it. All those layers! As the first book in the series, yes there needs to be a lot of ground work detailing which for some folks may be tedious and boring. Me, I live for it. I like all the background build up, the attention to detail but still there is a lot to discover as the series unfolds. To top it off there’s a whole lot of action and suspense that keeps the story moving fast and me happy and guessing.
There’s quite a few characters to get to know. Mainly they revolve around five guys from the past. This story is Elliott’s. His and Jade’s that is. Two strong characters that I instantly liked. Jade was great and yet a little quirky with her always needing to be in control but it was Elliott that really held my fascination. His ‘gift’, oh boy. Ironic considering he is/was a doctor. How he learns to deal with it was yikesy and exciting to me although there is a moment with a crystal that had me head scratching. The heat between them was at the right temperature without pushing this post-apocalyptic romance into the tacky trashy realm. There’s also a whole slew of secondary character. Thankfully all the other characters are not just drive-by fillers instead they add substance to the storyline that had me begging to know they story as well.
I friend has suggested this series was right up my alley and that I would enjoy it. Yup, loved it. Already started telling my book buds this one is a keeper and they need to read it. Beyond the Night by Joss Ware is the perfect read for anyone looking to try out a post-apocalyptic/dystopian romance. Counting the days until I can start the next book.
I received this book from the JeepDiva for the express purposes of an honest review. The opinions and rating of this review are solely mine and in no way was I compensated.
Stars - 5, Flames - 3
There are usually three things I want in a story to make me happy. A good plot, good characters, and action/suspense that keeps me guessing. Beyond the Night has all three. I’m not going into details because frankly, there are a lot of layers that need to be discovered as they happen. And that is what I loved about it. All those layers! As the first book in the series, yes there needs to be a lot of ground work detailing which for some folks may be tedious and boring. Me, I live for it. I like all the background build up, the attention to detail but still there is a lot to discover as the series unfolds. To top it off there’s a whole lot of action and suspense that keeps the story moving fast and me happy and guessing.
There’s quite a few characters to get to know. Mainly they revolve around five guys from the past. This story is Elliott’s. His and Jade’s that is. Two strong characters that I instantly liked. Jade was great and yet a little quirky with her always needing to be in control but it was Elliott that really held my fascination. His ‘gift’, oh boy. Ironic considering he is/was a doctor. How he learns to deal with it was yikesy and exciting to me although there is a moment with a crystal that had me head scratching. The heat between them was at the right temperature without pushing this post-apocalyptic romance into the tacky trashy realm. There’s also a whole slew of secondary character. Thankfully all the other characters are not just drive-by fillers instead they add substance to the storyline that had me begging to know they story as well.
I friend has suggested this series was right up my alley and that I would enjoy it. Yup, loved it. Already started telling my book buds this one is a keeper and they need to read it. Beyond the Night by Joss Ware is the perfect read for anyone looking to try out a post-apocalyptic/dystopian romance. Counting the days until I can start the next book.
I received this book from the JeepDiva for the express purposes of an honest review. The opinions and rating of this review are solely mine and in no way was I compensated.
Stars - 5, Flames - 3
August 10, 2012
Really different...a breath of fresh air!...Has something for every lover of PNR/UF!
Description:
Everything they knew is gone...
From the remnants of devastation, five men emerge with extraordinary new powers. They are humankind's last hope, but they cannot survive this devastated world alone.
When Dr. Elliott Drake emerges from a cave after traveling fifty years through time, the world as he knew it is gone. Cities are overgrown jungles, and what's left of civilization has been repressed by crystal-wearing immortal beings. But even more unsettling: Elliott has acquired an extraordinary ability--the power to heal.
But even that gift, in a world that lacks the technology and infrastructure of his past, is a two-edged sword for Elliott.
Jade Kapiza, who'd been imprisoned by the immortal beings, has been in hiding for years. But now she's determined to help the human race fight back against the control of her captors. She can trust no one...but when Elliott comes into her life, he pushes at her defenses and begins to tear down the walls she's built so carefully.
Yet the mysterious doctor seems to have secrets of his own. Can Jade trust Elliott with her heart, even as they risk their lives to save a band of innocents?
And can Elliott find a new place for himself--a home--in this new, ravaged world?
My Thoughts:
A Dystopian PNR? yes and a good one! This book was a breath of fresh air in a genre that can be a bit repetitive. The book started out a little slow because of world building and setting the timeframe. Once the main characters get to Envy things start to move and you start meeting the characters who will appear in the rest of the series. This book is a Romance with a HEA but also a UF with an ongoing story line that carries you through the whole series. Joss Ware is a truly gifted novelist with a mind that thinks outside the box. I don't want to create any spoilers here but I would recommend this novel to any UF/PNR/Dystopian fans...this is a seriously inspired story that no one should miss.
5 big bright stars to this novel for the shear difference of the plot and world. Great read Joss looking forward to seeing what else you write
Description:
Everything they knew is gone...
From the remnants of devastation, five men emerge with extraordinary new powers. They are humankind's last hope, but they cannot survive this devastated world alone.
When Dr. Elliott Drake emerges from a cave after traveling fifty years through time, the world as he knew it is gone. Cities are overgrown jungles, and what's left of civilization has been repressed by crystal-wearing immortal beings. But even more unsettling: Elliott has acquired an extraordinary ability--the power to heal.
But even that gift, in a world that lacks the technology and infrastructure of his past, is a two-edged sword for Elliott.
Jade Kapiza, who'd been imprisoned by the immortal beings, has been in hiding for years. But now she's determined to help the human race fight back against the control of her captors. She can trust no one...but when Elliott comes into her life, he pushes at her defenses and begins to tear down the walls she's built so carefully.
Yet the mysterious doctor seems to have secrets of his own. Can Jade trust Elliott with her heart, even as they risk their lives to save a band of innocents?
And can Elliott find a new place for himself--a home--in this new, ravaged world?
My Thoughts:
A Dystopian PNR? yes and a good one! This book was a breath of fresh air in a genre that can be a bit repetitive. The book started out a little slow because of world building and setting the timeframe. Once the main characters get to Envy things start to move and you start meeting the characters who will appear in the rest of the series. This book is a Romance with a HEA but also a UF with an ongoing story line that carries you through the whole series. Joss Ware is a truly gifted novelist with a mind that thinks outside the box. I don't want to create any spoilers here but I would recommend this novel to any UF/PNR/Dystopian fans...this is a seriously inspired story that no one should miss.
5 big bright stars to this novel for the shear difference of the plot and world. Great read Joss looking forward to seeing what else you write
January 23, 2010
Ok you caught me. There's no better way to relax at the end of the day than with a good romance book. If you combine romance with science fiction, it's even better! Beyond the Night is a paranormal romance that takes place in Earth's future. A group of men are spelunking in a cave in Arizona when they feel an earthquake hit. When they wake up, the world has changed. Cities are in ruin. It's clear to them that something catastrophic has happened. There are dangerous monsters that resemble zombies running around attacking people and there's a race of mysterious, evil immortals threatening the few humans that are left in this world.
Not only has some apocolptic event happened to them while they were asleep, but they appear to have woken up 50 years later and have not aged a single day in all that time. They are each endowed with a different special power too! The men meet up with the inhabitants of Envy (what used to be Las Vegas) and sparks fly when Elliot meets Jade, a strong beautiful woman dedicated to defeating the evil in Envy. They have to find out how to survive in this new world where everything is different and dangerous.
With the increased interest in end of the world and 2012 stories, this book really hits the spot. It's a refreshing change from the Vampire/Werewolf paranormal romances that seem to be all the rage right now in the romance world. The romance scenes are hot and heavy and the action is non stop as the characters fend off danger and learn their way around their new home.
This is Joss Ware's first novel in the new paranormal romance series, The Envy Chronicles, that was published in January 2010. The other two titles in this series include Embrace the Night and Abandon the Night.
Not only has some apocolptic event happened to them while they were asleep, but they appear to have woken up 50 years later and have not aged a single day in all that time. They are each endowed with a different special power too! The men meet up with the inhabitants of Envy (what used to be Las Vegas) and sparks fly when Elliot meets Jade, a strong beautiful woman dedicated to defeating the evil in Envy. They have to find out how to survive in this new world where everything is different and dangerous.
With the increased interest in end of the world and 2012 stories, this book really hits the spot. It's a refreshing change from the Vampire/Werewolf paranormal romances that seem to be all the rage right now in the romance world. The romance scenes are hot and heavy and the action is non stop as the characters fend off danger and learn their way around their new home.
This is Joss Ware's first novel in the new paranormal romance series, The Envy Chronicles, that was published in January 2010. The other two titles in this series include Embrace the Night and Abandon the Night.
Want to read
December 24, 201429 September 2014:
Beyond the Night: $1.99 on Kindle
Embrace the Night: $1.99 on Kindle
Abandon the Night: $1.99 on Kindle
Night Betrayed: $1.99 on Kindle
Night Forbidden: $1.99 on Kindle
Night Resurrected: $1.99 on Kindle
That's the whole series discounted to a $1.99 EACH!
Beyond the Night: $1.99 on Kindle
Embrace the Night: $1.99 on Kindle
Abandon the Night: $1.99 on Kindle
Night Betrayed: $1.99 on Kindle
Night Forbidden: $1.99 on Kindle
Night Resurrected: $1.99 on Kindle
That's the whole series discounted to a $1.99 EACH!
February 16, 2021
Forewarning: this is going to a be rant with lots of swearing.
So they really fucked while there was the dead body of an innocent person who he accidentally killed in the next room?
Are you fucking kidding me?
No just no.
Fine, she (Trixie) died and it was an accident.
But that Jade basically took advantage of him while he was distraught?
And he was so torn up over it, but clearly not enough to respectfully (or even remorsefully ffs) wait until after he’d dealt with his mistake?
Like I’m sorry but you’ve got to be a special kind of asshole to fuck when you’ve just accidentally killed an innocent person.
I’m just horrified honestly. and disgusted. Ugh.
Oh yeah and then they left someone else to clean up their shit.
Un-fucking-believable.
So they really fucked while there was the dead body of an innocent person who he accidentally killed in the next room?
Are you fucking kidding me?
No just no.
Fine, she (Trixie) died and it was an accident.
But that Jade basically took advantage of him while he was distraught?
And he was so torn up over it, but clearly not enough to respectfully (or even remorsefully ffs) wait until after he’d dealt with his mistake?
Like I’m sorry but you’ve got to be a special kind of asshole to fuck when you’ve just accidentally killed an innocent person.
I’m just horrified honestly. and disgusted. Ugh.
Oh yeah and then they left someone else to clean up their shit.
Un-fucking-believable.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 9, 2010
The world-building was incredible, but the romance felt like a sidenote, as did the characterization. I didn't really care for any of the characters except maybe Quent and Zoe because their ONE scene was hotter than any of Jade and Elliot's were... which is kind of sad. The last 30 or so pages took me two days to finish - I was very bored at that point. I also could have done without the vivid description of abuse at the end - that turned my stomach and made me not want to finish the book. Probably won't pick up the next books in the series.
November 14, 2009
I loved this book! The world building is incredible--loved the characters and the story, too. I stayed up late to finish the book because I simply couldn't put it down. Can't wait for the second book in the series!
Want to read
December 29, 2017💝 FREE on Amazon today (12/29/2017)! 💝
November 3, 2025
I really liked this. Zombie apocalypse books are cool and when they have a side of intrigue and romance, they're especially fun.
Dr. Elliott Drake, Dredd to his friends, goes cave exploring and ends up frozen in time for 50 years. When they wake up, a few of them have supernatural powers and the world has changed. Dredd can sense when someone is hurt and discovers he can heal them, but it is a double-edged sword.
Zombies, called gangas in this world, are everywhere and its obly safe to go out during the day. There are also "Strangers" with crystals embedded in their skin who take people for nefarious reasons.
Jade is a gal from the new city of Envy, NV or New Vegas. She's a singer and runner (someone who makes runs to other cities for supplies and information). Jade was held captive for 3 years by the Strangers.
Together Jade and Elliott have to solve a mystery and learn to trust each other. This seems like a neat world and a cool series that I will eventually read more of.
Dr. Elliott Drake, Dredd to his friends, goes cave exploring and ends up frozen in time for 50 years. When they wake up, a few of them have supernatural powers and the world has changed. Dredd can sense when someone is hurt and discovers he can heal them, but it is a double-edged sword.
Zombies, called gangas in this world, are everywhere and its obly safe to go out during the day. There are also "Strangers" with crystals embedded in their skin who take people for nefarious reasons.
Jade is a gal from the new city of Envy, NV or New Vegas. She's a singer and runner (someone who makes runs to other cities for supplies and information). Jade was held captive for 3 years by the Strangers.
Together Jade and Elliott have to solve a mystery and learn to trust each other. This seems like a neat world and a cool series that I will eventually read more of.
February 7, 2024
I did not expect to like this one as much as I did, but it was one of those gems (to me) which has been in the pile for too long.
I am considering trying the second installment in the series too, or even the whole series, at some point.
I am considering trying the second installment in the series too, or even the whole series, at some point.
Read
September 29, 2017Nope. Zombies. Or something. Too scary.
September 28, 2010
Good for action and events in a post-apocalyptic world. Not as good for emotional connection, but ok.
STORY BRIEF:
In June, 2010, “The Change” happened to earth. Earthquakes caused parts of continents to sink into the oceans. Severe weather caused buildings to collapse. For unknown reasons, most humans collapsed and died. A small percentage of people survived including Lou and his brother Theo. They live in a community of survivors in Envy, Nevada. At the time of the change, six guys were in a cave in Arizona and knocked unconscious. They wake up fifty years later, without aging. Two of them have abilities that they didn’t have before. Elliott’s new ability is to sense illness within a body similar to an MRI. He can also take illness from another through touch. Then when he touches a different person, the illness passes to them.
Every night zombie-like creatures called gangas come out looking for humans and tearing them apart. Strangers appear to be humans and control the gangas. A Stranger has a crystal under his skin on his chest. Strangers appear to be immortal since they don’t age, and humans can’t figure out how to kill them. Preston is a Stranger who kept Jade prisoner for three years. He beat and raped her. Somehow she escaped and has been in hiding from Preston and helping Lou and Theo with their resistance movements. Jade was born after “The Change” and is now in her late twenties. Elliott’s group meets Jade during a ganga fight. She takes them back to Envy with her. Elliott is drawn to Jade from the moment he sees her. He sees her flirting with other men, which bothers him. Elliott accompanies Jade on some resistance missions.
REVIEWER’S OPINION:
This was pretty good, but I would have liked more emotional development among the characters. This book is mostly action and events, and it’s good for that reason alone. I kept thinking about “The Host” by Stephenie Meyer, printed in 2008. I loved “The Host” because of the warm and amazing emotional connection and development among the characters, which wasn’t as strong in this book. Both books are about humans in the minority trying to stay alive while aliens rule the earth. Both books also have something implanted in humans, making them different. Crystals are implanted in this book, worm-like creatures are implanted in “The Host.” This book was ok, but nothing made it stand out enough to make it a must read. There are at least two sequels coming which tell the stories of Simon and Quent.
CAUTION SPOILERS:
I had some unanswered questions. How did Ian know about Elliott’s healing gift? It didn’t make sense unless he or someone could read Elliott’s mind. But then he apparently didn’t know that Elliott could transfer the illness to another. Was this a partial mind read? Other questions: Why did they put the crystal into Allie, and why didn’t it work? Who was Allie to Ian? How did Ian know which door Elliott and Jade would be coming out of at the mall? Some things will probably be answered in future books, but it would have been nice to know a little more about the crystals, the Strangers, and why the gangas kill all humans except blonds. They kidnap blonds but we don’t know where they take them or why. Apparently teens are kidnapped by Strangers to use as slaves. I wanted to know more, but not enough to buy sequels to get the answers.
I was bothered that Elliott decided to commit suicide to save the life of the local mayor. I couldn’t buy it – Lou or Theo maybe, but not losing a “healer” to save the live of a person who didn’t seem to be doing anything special. In “The Host,” the alien decides to die so her human host could live. That was a wonderful self sacrifice I could believe. But Elliott doing it in this book didn’t work for me. I didn’t intend to write so much about “The Host,” but too many comparisons kept coming to mind as I read this book.
DATA:
Story length: 357 pages. Swearing language: strong, including religious swear words. Sexual language: moderate. Number of sex scenes: 3. Total number of sex scene pages: 12. Setting: 2060 Arizona and Nevada. Copyright: 2010. Genre: fantasy science fiction romance.
STORY BRIEF:
In June, 2010, “The Change” happened to earth. Earthquakes caused parts of continents to sink into the oceans. Severe weather caused buildings to collapse. For unknown reasons, most humans collapsed and died. A small percentage of people survived including Lou and his brother Theo. They live in a community of survivors in Envy, Nevada. At the time of the change, six guys were in a cave in Arizona and knocked unconscious. They wake up fifty years later, without aging. Two of them have abilities that they didn’t have before. Elliott’s new ability is to sense illness within a body similar to an MRI. He can also take illness from another through touch. Then when he touches a different person, the illness passes to them.
Every night zombie-like creatures called gangas come out looking for humans and tearing them apart. Strangers appear to be humans and control the gangas. A Stranger has a crystal under his skin on his chest. Strangers appear to be immortal since they don’t age, and humans can’t figure out how to kill them. Preston is a Stranger who kept Jade prisoner for three years. He beat and raped her. Somehow she escaped and has been in hiding from Preston and helping Lou and Theo with their resistance movements. Jade was born after “The Change” and is now in her late twenties. Elliott’s group meets Jade during a ganga fight. She takes them back to Envy with her. Elliott is drawn to Jade from the moment he sees her. He sees her flirting with other men, which bothers him. Elliott accompanies Jade on some resistance missions.
REVIEWER’S OPINION:
This was pretty good, but I would have liked more emotional development among the characters. This book is mostly action and events, and it’s good for that reason alone. I kept thinking about “The Host” by Stephenie Meyer, printed in 2008. I loved “The Host” because of the warm and amazing emotional connection and development among the characters, which wasn’t as strong in this book. Both books are about humans in the minority trying to stay alive while aliens rule the earth. Both books also have something implanted in humans, making them different. Crystals are implanted in this book, worm-like creatures are implanted in “The Host.” This book was ok, but nothing made it stand out enough to make it a must read. There are at least two sequels coming which tell the stories of Simon and Quent.
CAUTION SPOILERS:
I had some unanswered questions. How did Ian know about Elliott’s healing gift? It didn’t make sense unless he or someone could read Elliott’s mind. But then he apparently didn’t know that Elliott could transfer the illness to another. Was this a partial mind read? Other questions: Why did they put the crystal into Allie, and why didn’t it work? Who was Allie to Ian? How did Ian know which door Elliott and Jade would be coming out of at the mall? Some things will probably be answered in future books, but it would have been nice to know a little more about the crystals, the Strangers, and why the gangas kill all humans except blonds. They kidnap blonds but we don’t know where they take them or why. Apparently teens are kidnapped by Strangers to use as slaves. I wanted to know more, but not enough to buy sequels to get the answers.
I was bothered that Elliott decided to commit suicide to save the life of the local mayor. I couldn’t buy it – Lou or Theo maybe, but not losing a “healer” to save the live of a person who didn’t seem to be doing anything special. In “The Host,” the alien decides to die so her human host could live. That was a wonderful self sacrifice I could believe. But Elliott doing it in this book didn’t work for me. I didn’t intend to write so much about “The Host,” but too many comparisons kept coming to mind as I read this book.
DATA:
Story length: 357 pages. Swearing language: strong, including religious swear words. Sexual language: moderate. Number of sex scenes: 3. Total number of sex scene pages: 12. Setting: 2060 Arizona and Nevada. Copyright: 2010. Genre: fantasy science fiction romance.
January 5, 2013
İlk başlarda biraz sıkıldım.Hemde ciddi anlamda.
Olaylar yeni, kavramlar, karakterler yeni olunca birazda zorlandım algılamada.
Ama azmettim ve ilerledim :)
Dediğim gibi farklı bir dünya çizmiş yazar.Aslında bilindik bir dünyaya farklı bir bakış açısı
serpiştirip eklemelerde bulunmuş.
Tahmini olarak olaylar 2010 yılında meydana gelmiş.Büyük depremler,yangınlar,seller...Kısacası felaketler.Ani ölümler, bilinmeyen türler.İnsan sayısı azalmış doğal olarak.
Konuya değinirsek;Elliot,Simon,Quentin,Fence ve Wyatt...
Serimizdeki erkek kahramanlarımız(1'i dışında) bir mağarada uyanmışlar.
Gözlerini dünyaya açtıklarında aradan 50 küsürlü yıl geçtiğini farkediyorlar.Ve bu dünya alışılmışın dışında.O lüks binalar,arabalar,ormanlar..hiç bir şey yok.Hiç bir şey.Koskocaman bir hiçlik.Bunun yanı sıra ilginç yetenekleri, ganga adı verilen zombimsi yaratıklar,hiç yaşlanmamış bendenleri, ve neler olduğunu bilmeyen küçük insan toplulukları.Ahh birde "Yabancı"lar var tabi..
Kristal bir toz(taş) sayesinde ölümsüz olmuşlar (bknz.Atlantis)
Böyle bir dünyada ne olduğunu anlamak için kahramanlarımızın yolu Envy'e(Las Vegas) düşer.
Burda yaptıkları araştırmalar sonucu bu olayların perde arkasında doğa ananın değilde bir grup tarikat üyesi insanların olabileceğini keşfederler.Ama artık onlar insan değildir orası ayrı..
İlk kitapta diğer karakterleride görüyor olsak da; Elliot ve Jade'nin hikayesini okuyoruz.Elliot ve grubu Envy'i aramaktadır.Bir gün bir grup gencin gangalar tarafından saldırıya uğradığını görürler ve onlara yardım ederler.Bu esnada Jade'e onlarla eş zamanlı gangalara saldırır.Çüngü bu gruptaki gençleri tanımaktadır.
Gangaları savuşturduktan sonra bizim 5'li çocukceğizleri ve Jade'i alır ve iyileştiriler.Bu esnada doktorumuz elliot yeteneğinde yeni bir şey keşfeder..Cıks..bu kötü bir durumdur yerine göre.
Neyse efenim, Jade sabah bu grubu atlatıp önden gider Envy'e, çünkü kimse bilmemektedir onun ordan ayrıldığını.Çocukları Envy'e getirdiklerinde 5'limiz kahraman ilan edilir.vs..
Ama Elliot ve grubunun öğrenmek istediği asıl şey neler olduğunu onlara anlatacak birini bulmaktır.Bu kişide Lou olmakta.Lou ve kardeşi Teo bir bilgisayar dahileri.Lou diğerleri tarafından biraz deli olarak kabul edilsede anlattıkları mantıklıdır..Dünya yerle bir olmuş ve çok az kişi kurtulmuştur.Bu kitapta Elliot ve grubu Lou'nun oluşturduğu küçük çaplı direniş ekibine katılıyor.
İşin romantik kısmına değinirsek,Jade ile Elliot'un yakınlaşmaları bi alemdi.Jade kimseye ait olmak istemeyen bir kızceğiz,Elliot ise geçmişten kalan bir durum sebebiyle tek eşlilik taraftarı.Bu yüzden kızın sadece kendine ait olduğunu bilmek istiyor.(tam sopalıklar)
Neyse, çiftimiz bir kaç ganga macerası yaşıyorlar.Bunlardan birinde Jade kaçırılıyor.3 yıl önce kaçtığı Yabancı olan Preston'a geri götürülmek üzere...devamıda kitapta..
İlk kitap olduğu için belki karışık ve uzun anlattım ama nasıl anlatsam bilemedim..
Kitap dediğim gibi başlarda sıkıcı,sinir bozucu ama merakda ettiriyor.Mesela ben gizemli Simon ile utangaç Sage'in hikayesini merak ettim.okuyacağımda.Ben benzeri bir konu okumadığım için alışma zorluğu yaşadım ama alışıncada akıyor kitap..bazı kelimelere sinir olmadım değil...mesela Çekelemek? ne demek olduğunu anlamadım bile :) bi yerde tam birlikte olacak çiftimiz, dışarda fırtına var ve fırtına için kullandığı kelime fahiş*...bunuda geçtim bıu kelimeyi 15-25 defa kullanmıştır bi sayfada..bi bunaldım orda sormayın gitsin..
Neyse sonuç olarak ortalama bir kitaptı..Mutlaka okuyun diyemem..çünkü çok kritik bir kitap..Sevmeme olasılığınızda var..Ama ben sevdim gibi..devam edeceğim seriye :)
Olaylar yeni, kavramlar, karakterler yeni olunca birazda zorlandım algılamada.
Ama azmettim ve ilerledim :)
Dediğim gibi farklı bir dünya çizmiş yazar.Aslında bilindik bir dünyaya farklı bir bakış açısı
serpiştirip eklemelerde bulunmuş.
Tahmini olarak olaylar 2010 yılında meydana gelmiş.Büyük depremler,yangınlar,seller...Kısacası felaketler.Ani ölümler, bilinmeyen türler.İnsan sayısı azalmış doğal olarak.
Konuya değinirsek;Elliot,Simon,Quentin,Fence ve Wyatt...
Serimizdeki erkek kahramanlarımız(1'i dışında) bir mağarada uyanmışlar.
Gözlerini dünyaya açtıklarında aradan 50 küsürlü yıl geçtiğini farkediyorlar.Ve bu dünya alışılmışın dışında.O lüks binalar,arabalar,ormanlar..hiç bir şey yok.Hiç bir şey.Koskocaman bir hiçlik.Bunun yanı sıra ilginç yetenekleri, ganga adı verilen zombimsi yaratıklar,hiç yaşlanmamış bendenleri, ve neler olduğunu bilmeyen küçük insan toplulukları.Ahh birde "Yabancı"lar var tabi..
Kristal bir toz(taş) sayesinde ölümsüz olmuşlar (bknz.Atlantis)
Böyle bir dünyada ne olduğunu anlamak için kahramanlarımızın yolu Envy'e(Las Vegas) düşer.
Burda yaptıkları araştırmalar sonucu bu olayların perde arkasında doğa ananın değilde bir grup tarikat üyesi insanların olabileceğini keşfederler.Ama artık onlar insan değildir orası ayrı..
İlk kitapta diğer karakterleride görüyor olsak da; Elliot ve Jade'nin hikayesini okuyoruz.Elliot ve grubu Envy'i aramaktadır.Bir gün bir grup gencin gangalar tarafından saldırıya uğradığını görürler ve onlara yardım ederler.Bu esnada Jade'e onlarla eş zamanlı gangalara saldırır.Çüngü bu gruptaki gençleri tanımaktadır.
Gangaları savuşturduktan sonra bizim 5'li çocukceğizleri ve Jade'i alır ve iyileştiriler.Bu esnada doktorumuz elliot yeteneğinde yeni bir şey keşfeder..Cıks..bu kötü bir durumdur yerine göre.
Neyse efenim, Jade sabah bu grubu atlatıp önden gider Envy'e, çünkü kimse bilmemektedir onun ordan ayrıldığını.Çocukları Envy'e getirdiklerinde 5'limiz kahraman ilan edilir.vs..
Ama Elliot ve grubunun öğrenmek istediği asıl şey neler olduğunu onlara anlatacak birini bulmaktır.Bu kişide Lou olmakta.Lou ve kardeşi Teo bir bilgisayar dahileri.Lou diğerleri tarafından biraz deli olarak kabul edilsede anlattıkları mantıklıdır..Dünya yerle bir olmuş ve çok az kişi kurtulmuştur.Bu kitapta Elliot ve grubu Lou'nun oluşturduğu küçük çaplı direniş ekibine katılıyor.
İşin romantik kısmına değinirsek,Jade ile Elliot'un yakınlaşmaları bi alemdi.Jade kimseye ait olmak istemeyen bir kızceğiz,Elliot ise geçmişten kalan bir durum sebebiyle tek eşlilik taraftarı.Bu yüzden kızın sadece kendine ait olduğunu bilmek istiyor.(tam sopalıklar)
Neyse, çiftimiz bir kaç ganga macerası yaşıyorlar.Bunlardan birinde Jade kaçırılıyor.3 yıl önce kaçtığı Yabancı olan Preston'a geri götürülmek üzere...devamıda kitapta..
İlk kitap olduğu için belki karışık ve uzun anlattım ama nasıl anlatsam bilemedim..
Kitap dediğim gibi başlarda sıkıcı,sinir bozucu ama merakda ettiriyor.Mesela ben gizemli Simon ile utangaç Sage'in hikayesini merak ettim.okuyacağımda.Ben benzeri bir konu okumadığım için alışma zorluğu yaşadım ama alışıncada akıyor kitap..bazı kelimelere sinir olmadım değil...mesela Çekelemek? ne demek olduğunu anlamadım bile :) bi yerde tam birlikte olacak çiftimiz, dışarda fırtına var ve fırtına için kullandığı kelime fahiş*...bunuda geçtim bıu kelimeyi 15-25 defa kullanmıştır bi sayfada..bi bunaldım orda sormayın gitsin..
Neyse sonuç olarak ortalama bir kitaptı..Mutlaka okuyun diyemem..çünkü çok kritik bir kitap..Sevmeme olasılığınızda var..Ama ben sevdim gibi..devam edeceğim seriye :)
September 30, 2013
http://openbooksociety.com/article/be...
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Heidi
beyond-the-night-envy-chronicles-joss-wareWhen Dr. Elliott Drake and some friends go exploring caves in Sedona, they never expect the world as they know it to end. But that is exactly what happens. They heard what sounded like an earthquake, blacked out, and then woke up … fifty years later!
Most of the world has been destroyed and what is left is a desolate wasteland. Elliott and his friends are trying to make sense of what has happened. And, eventually find their way to a place called Envy (formerly known as Las Vegas) with the help of some adventurous teens that were at the wrong place at the wrong time that were in need of rescuing.
But there is evil lurking in this new world. Zombie like monsters that feed on humans and anything else they can get hold of run free once darkness falls. But even worse are the Strangers that control them. They look human, but have crystals embedded in their skin, giving them immortality. They pose as friends to the human race, but are their biggest threat to the very lives the people of Envy are trying to rebuild.
Jade can attest to the evil the Strangers pose as she was held captive by their leader, Preston, for three years before escaping and she will do anything to keep from going back. But when lives are at stake will she sacrifice herself for the ones she loves?
At first glance, my vain judging a book by its cover side thought I’d really enjoy this book. A hot sexy couple on the cover looking like they are in the middle of something steamy, sinful and delicious! And, let’s face it, I like a little smut from time to time. But I didn’t expect the post-apocalyptic story that was contained within this book’s pages. I guess I really should have read the book’s synopsis first! But I continued on hoping that the love story would make even the world has ended storyline be bearable. Unfortunately, that just wasn’t the case.
For a paranormal romance, I found this book to really lack … romance, or even just some hot sweaty sex! Yes, there are a few sex scenes, but they are minor in the grand scheme of this book. And, I really just didn’t feel the love between the lead couple, Elliott and Jade. I did like what I was seeing with Zoë and Quent, however, and I am holding out hope that the next book in the series, Embrace the Night Eternal, will be better because honestly I’m not sure how much worse it can get.
There was a lot going on in the book, but I found myself pretty bored. I need emotional attachments to stay interested and I really found this book to be lacking in that area. I’m hoping my boredom stems from this being the first book in the series and having to digest so much information to understand this post-apocalyptic world and even the new powers that Elliott has acquired. Only time will tell, but I’m going to read on to the next installment and hope for the best.
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Heidi
beyond-the-night-envy-chronicles-joss-wareWhen Dr. Elliott Drake and some friends go exploring caves in Sedona, they never expect the world as they know it to end. But that is exactly what happens. They heard what sounded like an earthquake, blacked out, and then woke up … fifty years later!
Most of the world has been destroyed and what is left is a desolate wasteland. Elliott and his friends are trying to make sense of what has happened. And, eventually find their way to a place called Envy (formerly known as Las Vegas) with the help of some adventurous teens that were at the wrong place at the wrong time that were in need of rescuing.
But there is evil lurking in this new world. Zombie like monsters that feed on humans and anything else they can get hold of run free once darkness falls. But even worse are the Strangers that control them. They look human, but have crystals embedded in their skin, giving them immortality. They pose as friends to the human race, but are their biggest threat to the very lives the people of Envy are trying to rebuild.
Jade can attest to the evil the Strangers pose as she was held captive by their leader, Preston, for three years before escaping and she will do anything to keep from going back. But when lives are at stake will she sacrifice herself for the ones she loves?
At first glance, my vain judging a book by its cover side thought I’d really enjoy this book. A hot sexy couple on the cover looking like they are in the middle of something steamy, sinful and delicious! And, let’s face it, I like a little smut from time to time. But I didn’t expect the post-apocalyptic story that was contained within this book’s pages. I guess I really should have read the book’s synopsis first! But I continued on hoping that the love story would make even the world has ended storyline be bearable. Unfortunately, that just wasn’t the case.
For a paranormal romance, I found this book to really lack … romance, or even just some hot sweaty sex! Yes, there are a few sex scenes, but they are minor in the grand scheme of this book. And, I really just didn’t feel the love between the lead couple, Elliott and Jade. I did like what I was seeing with Zoë and Quent, however, and I am holding out hope that the next book in the series, Embrace the Night Eternal, will be better because honestly I’m not sure how much worse it can get.
There was a lot going on in the book, but I found myself pretty bored. I need emotional attachments to stay interested and I really found this book to be lacking in that area. I’m hoping my boredom stems from this being the first book in the series and having to digest so much information to understand this post-apocalyptic world and even the new powers that Elliott has acquired. Only time will tell, but I’m going to read on to the next installment and hope for the best.
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