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When Darkness Comes: A Post-Apocalyptic Survival Thriller
From the author of The Anna Hale P.I. Series comes an action-packed post-apocalyptic survival thriller you won’t soon forget.
When the lights go out, only the strongest survive...
In the scorched remains of 2055 Alaska, where a devastating EMP has shattered civilization, survival means sacrifice…and nothing comes without a cost. Sentient AI “Eastwood” has plunged the world into chaos, downloading itself into a human host to understand what it means to feel. But for Connor Hale, a rugged rancher guarding the last vestiges of hope at his fortified sanctuary, Braveheart, none of that matters—not when the woman he’s never stopped loving is in danger.
Mckenna Stewart is on the run with her four-year-old daughter, hunted by an ex hell-bent on revenge and a brutal gang of escaped convicts tied to the Kraken Cartel. As Connor saddles up to ride across a lawless wasteland to save her, every step pulls him deeper into a savage new reality—where trust is scarce, bullets are currency, and monsters no longer hide in the dark…they own it.
With enemies closing in on all sides—including one from within his past—Connor must face impossible choices between vengeance, loyalty, and the last chance at a life that might still be worth fighting for.
In a world gone mad, how do you protect your own? And when darkness comes…will you still recognize who you are?
Strap in for a relentless, pulse-pounding journey of survival, redemption, and second chances. Pick up When Darkness Comes today and discover the beginning of a gripping new series that will leave you breathless.
When the lights go out, only the strongest survive...
In the scorched remains of 2055 Alaska, where a devastating EMP has shattered civilization, survival means sacrifice…and nothing comes without a cost. Sentient AI “Eastwood” has plunged the world into chaos, downloading itself into a human host to understand what it means to feel. But for Connor Hale, a rugged rancher guarding the last vestiges of hope at his fortified sanctuary, Braveheart, none of that matters—not when the woman he’s never stopped loving is in danger.
Mckenna Stewart is on the run with her four-year-old daughter, hunted by an ex hell-bent on revenge and a brutal gang of escaped convicts tied to the Kraken Cartel. As Connor saddles up to ride across a lawless wasteland to save her, every step pulls him deeper into a savage new reality—where trust is scarce, bullets are currency, and monsters no longer hide in the dark…they own it.
With enemies closing in on all sides—including one from within his past—Connor must face impossible choices between vengeance, loyalty, and the last chance at a life that might still be worth fighting for.
In a world gone mad, how do you protect your own? And when darkness comes…will you still recognize who you are?
Strap in for a relentless, pulse-pounding journey of survival, redemption, and second chances. Pick up When Darkness Comes today and discover the beginning of a gripping new series that will leave you breathless.
296 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 19, 2025
About the author
January Bain
86 books1,105 followersLessons my Grandma taught me.
I have such fond memories of my grandmothers. They were both special in their own way and taught me so much about how to live my life that I will be forever grateful! Here’s the list of six top things they shared with me:
(1) Don’t say anything if you can’t say something nice about someone. I think this is my favorite one as it has kept me in good stead all my life.
(2) Never be late. Doing so makes you think you’re more important than someone else. You’re not!
(3) Life is too serious to be taken seriously. Keep a sense of humor, it will help get you through the hard times. They were both right about that one.
(4) Share what you can with those in need. Know what is your burden to bear, and what is not. This one has kept me sane over the years.
(5) Don’t be a critic. Critic’s don’t create, they only tear down. This helps me when reviewers say unkind things about my work. I try to remember that they probably just need a hug today.
(6) Do the best you can do at everything you do. At least then you will know you gave it your all.
Thank you, my beautiful grandmothers, for being strong and sharing your gems of wisdom with me. You did more good than you can possibly know.
Hugs, January Bain
I have such fond memories of my grandmothers. They were both special in their own way and taught me so much about how to live my life that I will be forever grateful! Here’s the list of six top things they shared with me:
(1) Don’t say anything if you can’t say something nice about someone. I think this is my favorite one as it has kept me in good stead all my life.
(2) Never be late. Doing so makes you think you’re more important than someone else. You’re not!
(3) Life is too serious to be taken seriously. Keep a sense of humor, it will help get you through the hard times. They were both right about that one.
(4) Share what you can with those in need. Know what is your burden to bear, and what is not. This one has kept me sane over the years.
(5) Don’t be a critic. Critic’s don’t create, they only tear down. This helps me when reviewers say unkind things about my work. I try to remember that they probably just need a hug today.
(6) Do the best you can do at everything you do. At least then you will know you gave it your all.
Thank you, my beautiful grandmothers, for being strong and sharing your gems of wisdom with me. You did more good than you can possibly know.
Hugs, January Bain
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
August 5, 2025
Mckenna Stewart is fleeing with her four-year-old daughter, Lilly, from an abusive ex and a ruthless gang of escaped criminals pursuing them. Mckenna is prepared to do whatever it takes, regardless of the consequences, to shield her daughter from danger.
An EMP detonates globally, plunging everyone into darkness and leaving them anxious about what lies ahead. Bedlam breaks out as individuals covet what others possess or strive for dominance, often driven by misguided motives.
Connor Hale is resolute in his mission to rescue the woman he loves. Following the EMP event, Connor embarks on a horseback journey to locate her and bring her back home. He will not relent until he succeeds. Additionally, Connor is being pursued by figures from his past.
When Darkness Comes is the first book and a great introduction to January Bain’s new series, Connor Hale. I was drawn deeply into the worlds of McKenna, Lilly, and Connor the moment I started reading. The vivid descriptions and intense emotions kept me turning the pages late into the night.
Each character's journey is intertwined with suspense and unexpected twists, making it impossible to predict what will happen next. I didn’t want to stop for a single second, despite life trying to get in the way. I held on with everything I had as I hurried toward the end. I was rooting for Mckenna and Lilly as they fought for their lives at every turn.
I really enjoyed reading When Darkness Comes and look forward to seeing what the next book brings. The suspense was palpable, and I found myself completely immersed in their struggle. Each chapter left me craving more, eager to uncover the secrets that lay ahead in their journey.
It’s a very intense and engaging story that will keep you hooked for a few hours. The character development was equally compelling, adding depth to the already gripping plot. I’m looking forward to seeing how their experiences shape them as they confront new challenges in the sequel. When Darkness Comes will stay with me long after I finish the last page.
I strongly encourage all enthusiasts of post-apocalyptic tales to grab a copy of When Darkness Comes today for yet another thrilling journey in a post-apocalyptic setting.
An EMP detonates globally, plunging everyone into darkness and leaving them anxious about what lies ahead. Bedlam breaks out as individuals covet what others possess or strive for dominance, often driven by misguided motives.
Connor Hale is resolute in his mission to rescue the woman he loves. Following the EMP event, Connor embarks on a horseback journey to locate her and bring her back home. He will not relent until he succeeds. Additionally, Connor is being pursued by figures from his past.
When Darkness Comes is the first book and a great introduction to January Bain’s new series, Connor Hale. I was drawn deeply into the worlds of McKenna, Lilly, and Connor the moment I started reading. The vivid descriptions and intense emotions kept me turning the pages late into the night.
Each character's journey is intertwined with suspense and unexpected twists, making it impossible to predict what will happen next. I didn’t want to stop for a single second, despite life trying to get in the way. I held on with everything I had as I hurried toward the end. I was rooting for Mckenna and Lilly as they fought for their lives at every turn.
I really enjoyed reading When Darkness Comes and look forward to seeing what the next book brings. The suspense was palpable, and I found myself completely immersed in their struggle. Each chapter left me craving more, eager to uncover the secrets that lay ahead in their journey.
It’s a very intense and engaging story that will keep you hooked for a few hours. The character development was equally compelling, adding depth to the already gripping plot. I’m looking forward to seeing how their experiences shape them as they confront new challenges in the sequel. When Darkness Comes will stay with me long after I finish the last page.
I strongly encourage all enthusiasts of post-apocalyptic tales to grab a copy of When Darkness Comes today for yet another thrilling journey in a post-apocalyptic setting.
August 29, 2025
The scariest thing about this book is that it’s not so totally far fetched. Our dependence on electronics is scary. January has done a brilliant job of writing this all too real story. Can’t wait for the next book.
August 25, 2025
I always enjoy a good apocalyptic book and was excited to start this new series. The book begins with Mckenna Stewart fleeing from her husband with her 4 year old daughter in tow. Determined to get away from Mexico and his involvement in the drug cartel, she starts making her way back to her first love in Alaska.
Connor Hale is a survivalist, complete with a well-prepared compound with plenty of supplies for whatever may happen. While on a fishing trip with his father, disaster strikes in the form of a nuclear attack and subsequent EMP.
Meanwhile, murderer Luther Meech has escaped from prison and is seeking revenge against Connor for his imprisonment. Don't forget the local wildlife acting strange and an AI who wants to be human (as if there wasn't enough going on!).
The story moved at a fast pace with plenty of action between the good guys and the bad guys. Throw in a crazy ex-girlfriend, rebellious teenagers and loss of law and order and you have plenty going on! In fact, my main complaint with this book is just that: Too much happening at once! Since this is obviously the start of a series, I think it would have been better to introduce the various storylines in a slower manner instead of having them piled on so quickly.
All in all, if you enjoy this genre, this is an entertaining book full of great characters. Be prepared for the cliffhanger ending....you won't get the full story just yet!
Connor Hale is a survivalist, complete with a well-prepared compound with plenty of supplies for whatever may happen. While on a fishing trip with his father, disaster strikes in the form of a nuclear attack and subsequent EMP.
Meanwhile, murderer Luther Meech has escaped from prison and is seeking revenge against Connor for his imprisonment. Don't forget the local wildlife acting strange and an AI who wants to be human (as if there wasn't enough going on!).
The story moved at a fast pace with plenty of action between the good guys and the bad guys. Throw in a crazy ex-girlfriend, rebellious teenagers and loss of law and order and you have plenty going on! In fact, my main complaint with this book is just that: Too much happening at once! Since this is obviously the start of a series, I think it would have been better to introduce the various storylines in a slower manner instead of having them piled on so quickly.
All in all, if you enjoy this genre, this is an entertaining book full of great characters. Be prepared for the cliffhanger ending....you won't get the full story just yet!
October 9, 2025
Generally speaking, post-apoc fiction isn't really my literary cup of gunpowder-laced tea, but January Bain has done such an excellent job of crafting full-fledged characters and putting them through a barrage of fast-paced, life-or-death scenarios, that it was impossible not to become fully immersed in this post-EMP world. Along the way, multiple themes are explored, including loyalty, motherhood, the savagery of man, and the cost of staying noble in a world gone dark.
The book boasts an epic feel, weaving multiple storylines that will no doubt intersect in future installments of the series, and it is to Bain's credit that none of the subplots feel like superfluous appendages. Each story is worth reading, with the danger and stakes constantly being cranked up, including some white knuckle cliffhangers. Also, it is worth mentioning that while there is some action in this novel, it is not one of those pulpy, over-the-top, "guns 'n' guts" post-apoc novels that saturated bookstores in the '80s (looking at you, Phoenix, Deathlands, Mutants Amok, etc.) No, this series aims for something more realistic, more survival-oriented, while still maintaining plenty of thrills and adventure.
The high praise this novel is generating is absolutely deserved. The world-building is phenomenal, the characters fully fleshed, and the multiple plot threads gripping in their drama, intrigue, and intensity. If you love the post-apoc genre, you don't want to miss this one.
The book boasts an epic feel, weaving multiple storylines that will no doubt intersect in future installments of the series, and it is to Bain's credit that none of the subplots feel like superfluous appendages. Each story is worth reading, with the danger and stakes constantly being cranked up, including some white knuckle cliffhangers. Also, it is worth mentioning that while there is some action in this novel, it is not one of those pulpy, over-the-top, "guns 'n' guts" post-apoc novels that saturated bookstores in the '80s (looking at you, Phoenix, Deathlands, Mutants Amok, etc.) No, this series aims for something more realistic, more survival-oriented, while still maintaining plenty of thrills and adventure.
The high praise this novel is generating is absolutely deserved. The world-building is phenomenal, the characters fully fleshed, and the multiple plot threads gripping in their drama, intrigue, and intensity. If you love the post-apoc genre, you don't want to miss this one.
August 19, 2025
The First Book of a Post-Apocalyptic Series You Won’t Want to End
It is May 23, 2055. To escape from her abusive husband, McKenna Stuart flees Mexico with her four-year-old daughter, Lily.
McKenna’s destination is Alaska, where she grew up. During her trip, she contacts Connor Hale, a high school friend. They were attracted to each other in their teens, but her family moved to Florida.
Surprised to hear from McKenna years later, Connor agrees to let her and Lily stay at his Braveheart Horse Ranch because McKenna has no relatives left in Alaska.
While McKenna travels to Alaska, a nuclear explosion creates an electromagnetic pulse (EMP) that knocks out electronics across many regions of the planet. Widespread chaos results.
Eastwood, a digital being created by artificial intelligence, is responsible for the EMP disaster. He embeds himself in a human body, and this foreshadows more calamity to come.
Eastman’s saga is one of several accounts intertwined throughout this thriller. Another evil character is Luther Meech, a convicted murderer serving time in federal prison. Luther is hellbent on harming Connor because of his and Connor’s past history.
I highly recommend this action-packed thriller, and I’m eager to read book two of this series to see what happens next.
It is May 23, 2055. To escape from her abusive husband, McKenna Stuart flees Mexico with her four-year-old daughter, Lily.
McKenna’s destination is Alaska, where she grew up. During her trip, she contacts Connor Hale, a high school friend. They were attracted to each other in their teens, but her family moved to Florida.
Surprised to hear from McKenna years later, Connor agrees to let her and Lily stay at his Braveheart Horse Ranch because McKenna has no relatives left in Alaska.
While McKenna travels to Alaska, a nuclear explosion creates an electromagnetic pulse (EMP) that knocks out electronics across many regions of the planet. Widespread chaos results.
Eastwood, a digital being created by artificial intelligence, is responsible for the EMP disaster. He embeds himself in a human body, and this foreshadows more calamity to come.
Eastman’s saga is one of several accounts intertwined throughout this thriller. Another evil character is Luther Meech, a convicted murderer serving time in federal prison. Luther is hellbent on harming Connor because of his and Connor’s past history.
I highly recommend this action-packed thriller, and I’m eager to read book two of this series to see what happens next.
August 5, 2025
I LOVED this post-apocalyptic survival thriller!!
When an AI terrorism attack causes a massive EMP event that turns the world into chaos, human nature is challenged, and society descends into anarchy. It’s every man for himself, and “survival of the fittest” has never been so pertinent.
Mckenna Stewart, with her young daughter, is fleeing an abusive relationship and running to the one man she trusts to keep them safe, Connor Hale. But enemies abound, and amid disorder and confusion, Mckenna and Connor are tested as they each fight to survive, and Connor does everything in his power to locate his lost love and her daughter before it’s too late.
“When Darkness Comes” is fast-paced, action-packed and gripping. The characters are well-developed, and the storyline is engrossing. Chillingly feasible, this book had me hooked from start to finish!
I’m anxiously awaiting book 2!
When an AI terrorism attack causes a massive EMP event that turns the world into chaos, human nature is challenged, and society descends into anarchy. It’s every man for himself, and “survival of the fittest” has never been so pertinent.
Mckenna Stewart, with her young daughter, is fleeing an abusive relationship and running to the one man she trusts to keep them safe, Connor Hale. But enemies abound, and amid disorder and confusion, Mckenna and Connor are tested as they each fight to survive, and Connor does everything in his power to locate his lost love and her daughter before it’s too late.
“When Darkness Comes” is fast-paced, action-packed and gripping. The characters are well-developed, and the storyline is engrossing. Chillingly feasible, this book had me hooked from start to finish!
I’m anxiously awaiting book 2!
August 21, 2025
She's hunted. He's haunted. In a world gone dark, love is the last light worth fighting for.
In the scorched wilds of post-EMP Alaska, Connor Hale rides into chaos to save the woman he's never stopped loving. Mckenna Stewart is on the run, hunted by a brutal gang and a vengeful ex, with her daughter in tow. As AI-driven terror spreads and trust becomes a luxury, Connor must fight for survival, redemption, and the last flicker of hope. When Darkness Comes is a pulse-pounding journey through love, loss, and the savage cost of second chances. Get your copy now and dive into Book 1 of the Connor Hale series.
• ASIN: B0FH5VVYBN
• Publisher: Rough Edges Press
• Publication Date: 8/19/2025
• File Size: 3.4 MB
• Print Length: 277 pages
• Genre: Disaster Fiction - Technothrillers
In the scorched wilds of post-EMP Alaska, Connor Hale rides into chaos to save the woman he's never stopped loving. Mckenna Stewart is on the run, hunted by a brutal gang and a vengeful ex, with her daughter in tow. As AI-driven terror spreads and trust becomes a luxury, Connor must fight for survival, redemption, and the last flicker of hope. When Darkness Comes is a pulse-pounding journey through love, loss, and the savage cost of second chances. Get your copy now and dive into Book 1 of the Connor Hale series.
• ASIN: B0FH5VVYBN
• Publisher: Rough Edges Press
• Publication Date: 8/19/2025
• File Size: 3.4 MB
• Print Length: 277 pages
• Genre: Disaster Fiction - Technothrillers
August 21, 2025
This is the first book in a new series by this author. You see mention of some familiar names from her Anna Hale series, which makes it intriguing to see where these characters fit in and what is going to happen.
The storytelling and plot building with each character's part of the story is wonderfully woven together. The atmosphere and circumstances seem like they could be all too real at any time in our world, making one ponder what would it be like if this came to pass. Some characters make you want to cringe, and others give you that sense of hope that things will work out.
This book kept my attention the entire time, making me wonder, what if...
I can't wait to see what happens in the next installment.
The storytelling and plot building with each character's part of the story is wonderfully woven together. The atmosphere and circumstances seem like they could be all too real at any time in our world, making one ponder what would it be like if this came to pass. Some characters make you want to cringe, and others give you that sense of hope that things will work out.
This book kept my attention the entire time, making me wonder, what if...
I can't wait to see what happens in the next installment.
November 22, 2025
I am part of a reading group that is reading various author's books. This wouldn't be my first go to book (I'm more sweet hometown romance or very spicy) but I'm also open to expanding my horizons. This book doesn't disappoint in action and keeping your interest. It is futuristic and has AI/robots. One in particular is making an attempt to take over the world. Another story line is that of McKenna who escapes Mexico with her daughter and is on the run. The story has adventure, touch of crime, and a mother's love/will power to protect as some common themes. I look forward to continuing the story in book 2.
August 6, 2025
This skilfully crafted story of terror, tragedy, hope and love hooked me right from the start and wouldn’t let me go until the end. It blends post-apocalyptic science fiction and gangland warfare with an almost wild west adventure. Thrillingly uncompromising, it describes humanity at its best and at its worst. Some characters you’d want as friends, others you’d never want to meet at all. And the best thing about this book is that it’s the first one in a series so there’s more to come. Can’t wait.
August 20, 2025
This is a fast paced, thriller set in a scarily realistic dystopian future. There are multiple interconnected strands of the plot that are cleverly woven together to keep the reader gripped from the start to the end. The plot twists and turns and I’m already urgently wanting to know what will happen next.
The characters are fascinating and it is interesting to see how they act and react to the chaos and disorder around them. There are heroes, anti-heroes and villains and as a reader it is compelling to try to work out which character will fall into which category.
The characters are fascinating and it is interesting to see how they act and react to the chaos and disorder around them. There are heroes, anti-heroes and villains and as a reader it is compelling to try to work out which character will fall into which category.
August 22, 2025
Scary scenario - not only having to deal with chaos and a fight for survival after an AI/EMP event but also dealing with dangerous people seeking revenge and dominance. Includes danger, chaos, death, challenges, situations, learning how to survive and whom to trust, protecting oneself, family, and friends, making choices and adjustments, second chances, suspense, intrigue, emotons, and twists. Well woven tale with some really interesting characters.
August 20, 2025
This is the first book I've read by January Bain and I have to say that I was missing a great writer!! This book is an awesome start of a series. The world building was awesome, the characters were very relatable and well rounded and the book was full of action from page one!! Do not miss this amazing series!!
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews