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Brutes of Bristlebrook #0.5
Day Death: A Brutes of Bristlebrook Prequel Novella: Brutes of Bristlebrook Trilogy
One night. Six stories. Total nuclear annihilation.
THE BRUTES
Tonight was meant to be about kink. Our lives are a nightmare of last-minute deployments and near misses, and we needed the break.
Instead, we broke. The whole world broke.
But as city after city is blown apart, and with a club full of civilians to protect, we have to pull it together and get them to safety. No matter how we’re feeling. No matter how many family members are disintegrating into ash. We have a job to do, so we’ll be each other’s strength.
Even if it means walking into bomb-fire together.
EDEN
I’m alone.
Please, someone forgive me for what I have to do.
I don’t think I can.
THE BRUTES
Tonight was meant to be about kink. Our lives are a nightmare of last-minute deployments and near misses, and we needed the break.
Instead, we broke. The whole world broke.
But as city after city is blown apart, and with a club full of civilians to protect, we have to pull it together and get them to safety. No matter how we’re feeling. No matter how many family members are disintegrating into ash. We have a job to do, so we’ll be each other’s strength.
Even if it means walking into bomb-fire together.
EDEN
I’m alone.
Please, someone forgive me for what I have to do.
I don’t think I can.
Audible Audio
Published July 16, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews
May 5, 2025
I love the brutes and now I’m just sad
January 14, 2026
Perfect little novella to get some background info
November 25, 2025
3.5 ⭐️ I hope that if the apocalypse ever comes, I’ll be at a BDSM club with five rugged rangers, because I have zero desire to live alone in a cave and survive on whatever I can forage.
March 25, 2025
Day Death: A Brutes of Bristlebrook Prequel Novella (Brutes of Bristlebrook Trilogy) by Rebecca Quinn is the apocalyptic prequel novella to the Brutes of Bristlebrook series.
It follows each of the six main characters, in story order Jaykob, Dominic, Beau, Lucky, Jasper & Eden on their fight to survive the fateful night the world as they knew it, ended & how they pull together ... and how they fall apart.
I greedily inhaled each of the characters stories as the author had published them separately between books, but it was great to read them all together to recap & finally read Eden's life events leading up to the apocalypse.
The author recommends reading this prequel novella after reading Ensnared & I would agree. You could still read it prior to reading any of the books, but the pieces will slot together perfectly after reading the first book, Ensnared.
There are trigger warnings in this novella, so please be sure to read them 🚩🚩
If you like your books fast paced, with an angst filled suspenseful plot, & a little heart pounding action, I highly recommend The Brutes of Bristlebrook Trilogy & this novella 💣☠️🔫🥷🔥🔥
It follows each of the six main characters, in story order Jaykob, Dominic, Beau, Lucky, Jasper & Eden on their fight to survive the fateful night the world as they knew it, ended & how they pull together ... and how they fall apart.
I greedily inhaled each of the characters stories as the author had published them separately between books, but it was great to read them all together to recap & finally read Eden's life events leading up to the apocalypse.
The author recommends reading this prequel novella after reading Ensnared & I would agree. You could still read it prior to reading any of the books, but the pieces will slot together perfectly after reading the first book, Ensnared.
There are trigger warnings in this novella, so please be sure to read them 🚩🚩
If you like your books fast paced, with an angst filled suspenseful plot, & a little heart pounding action, I highly recommend The Brutes of Bristlebrook Trilogy & this novella 💣☠️🔫🥷🔥🔥
February 10, 2025
I love origin stories, especially when I already know how the story ends. And I am holding on to the promise of an HEA for these amazing characters in this amazing world.
Why? Because Rebecca Quinn has given us a breathtaking and heartbreaking glimpse into that single tragic day in the lives of prim and proper librarian Eden and former Army Rangers Dom, Beau, Lucky, Jasper, & Jayk...the day that the world as they knew it ended.
This prequel novella is crucial to understanding the story arcs of Eden and her Brutes, and while perhaps darker than Book 1 Ensnared and Book 2 Entangled, these six episodes only endeared this why choose found family to me even more.
Quinn's writing is sublime. She is a wordsmith of the highest caliber, her turn of phrase, world building, and the way she tugs at a readers' heartstrings utterly engrossing. I marvel at the skill with which she draws us in, makes us gasp, weep, laugh, and yes, even hurt.
If this weren't enough, the full-cast all-star duet audio recordings for each of these episodes (available to purchase on Quinn's website) are simply astounding. Narrators Avery Caris, J.F. Harding, Jason Clarke, Teddy Hamilton, and Sebastian York are a veritable feast for the ears and an abundance of riches in their portrayal of these fictional characters. This audio is not to be missed.
These characters and this world are my Roman Empire.
This novella, is, in my opinion, best enjoyed after reading at least Book 1 Ensnared. But, it can be read first if you choose. Due to the topics discussed, I do absolutely recommend visiting Quinn's website for a complete list of content warnings. But if everything is green, Day Death is a must read/listen.
Why? Because Rebecca Quinn has given us a breathtaking and heartbreaking glimpse into that single tragic day in the lives of prim and proper librarian Eden and former Army Rangers Dom, Beau, Lucky, Jasper, & Jayk...the day that the world as they knew it ended.
This prequel novella is crucial to understanding the story arcs of Eden and her Brutes, and while perhaps darker than Book 1 Ensnared and Book 2 Entangled, these six episodes only endeared this why choose found family to me even more.
Quinn's writing is sublime. She is a wordsmith of the highest caliber, her turn of phrase, world building, and the way she tugs at a readers' heartstrings utterly engrossing. I marvel at the skill with which she draws us in, makes us gasp, weep, laugh, and yes, even hurt.
If this weren't enough, the full-cast all-star duet audio recordings for each of these episodes (available to purchase on Quinn's website) are simply astounding. Narrators Avery Caris, J.F. Harding, Jason Clarke, Teddy Hamilton, and Sebastian York are a veritable feast for the ears and an abundance of riches in their portrayal of these fictional characters. This audio is not to be missed.
These characters and this world are my Roman Empire.
This novella, is, in my opinion, best enjoyed after reading at least Book 1 Ensnared. But, it can be read first if you choose. Due to the topics discussed, I do absolutely recommend visiting Quinn's website for a complete list of content warnings. But if everything is green, Day Death is a must read/listen.
April 23, 2025
Wow. I did not expect to cry as much as I did. This was an easy 5⭐️, I don’t care if it’s a novella, it was so perfect. Terribly heart wrenching, sad, cruel, but it showed us how the tough people we meet in Ensnared got to where they were. That they will get their happy endings with each other, even though it all started with gut wrenching fear and hopelessness.
First off, I highly recommend reading this after book 1, Ensnared, because it’s better if you connect with the characters and understand them first and then get into this. But holy fuck, reading this was so crazy and people should definitely look into trigger warnings before reading this because it’s a dystopian book, so it’s very similar to real life. But wow getting to see how they all reacted to this and how they got to be where they are in Ensnared was crazy. There will definitely be spoilers, just so you know.
Starting off with Jaykob, it was so crazy to see their lives before it went to shit, even though he already knew something was off before they learned about it. But I freaking knew it, there is more to Jaykob than the big angry persona he portrays, he justs wants to fit with someone and doesn’t want to be judged, but that’s what keeps happening. He didn’t even feel like the other guys were his family, like the other guys feel about each other 😭😭. And I’m thinking just wait Jayk, you’ll meet Eden, it’ll take four years, but you’ll find someone who accepts you 😭😭. And then Domininic, I felt so bad for him because he easily went into work mode, until he heard that Beau’s family farm, where Beau was just visiting was too close to the blast zone and he broke down thinking that he died. It was so sad but so nice to see how much he loves Beau, like he genuinely didn’t think he could live without him. And then when he saw that he was there and made it back, I felt happy but sad for him. Happy because he didn’t lose his soulmate, but sad because he had to break the new to Beau who was offline and just happily listening to a podcast. And then poor Beau’s chapter 😭😭. He just had a good weekend with his family, laughing, having fun, getting drunk, and left with his moms apple pie, the smell of the drinks they had lingering, on his way back to his other family listening to a podcast, unbeknownst the world was ending 😭. And once he found out, his grief and sorrow overwhelmed him so much because he was just with his family, that he almost killed himself 😢. But thank goodness Jasper and Dominic were able to snap him out it, and Dominic reminded him that even though he lost one family, he still has another 😭. And that’s what brought him back. And then poor Lucky, his entire chapter he kept trying to convince himself that his parents had made it out of California like they had drunkenly planned with him. Also, it was nice to see his messages with them, like it’s no wonder where he got his exuberance from. But then the poor guy went through an emotional rollercoaster with Jasper. Seeing that he wasn’t wearing a ring anymore and being happy about it to Jasper crushing all of his hopes and dreams. But then Jasper saved his life 😢. But HOLY FUCK, Jasper’s chapter. When they all had thought the blast from base was going to take them out he said this about Lucky ”If this is my last moment, if I’m to be stardust and a dream, then let it be with him. Let our dust spin out together. He’ll be my dream through every galaxy. Our hearts will beat their last as one.” 😭😭😭😭 What the fuck. That is the most absolute sweetest thing I’ve ever heard. And there are so many more that I loved that I’ll add at the end. But I liked how his chapter ended since Beau shared his apple pie from his mom just like she wanted him to with Jasper telling the guys that he knew a safe place, Bristlebrook. It just makes me sad to know now that they all had each other, and Eden had no one 😭😭.
Now finally, our girl Eden’s chapter. This poor sweet girl was already going through it before the world went to shit, and then she had to face all of that on her own until she didn’t. Until that sweet cop Simon, who she had saw earlier, joined her at the library doors. And he was being so calm, kind, collected, helpful, and flirty that he was exactly what she needed. He saw her, unlike everyone else who was trampling her and protecting themselves. He gave her the much needed humor that she needed, he attached a string to her glasses to prevent them from falling when he saw that it kept slipping off. Like he didn’t need to do that, no one else would’ve, especially with the state the world is in. He hugged her and let her cry it out when it became overwhelming for her. He made sure they had a plan on how to survive together. And it was going so perfectly, until it didn’t. And that’s when I sobbed at his fear of dying, of knowing that Eden was going to be alone for four years, of seeing Eden not knowing what to do, and because of the fact that he didn’t want her to leave him alone and she didn’t. She stayed until his last breath 😢. I wish that poor man had survived longer, that he had survived with Eden and they could’ve kept each other happy. He was just a young guy who was just starting his job when the world went to shit, did his best, found a girl he could’ve survived and stayed happy with, I’m just glad she stayed in his last moments.
Gosh, that was so long and I basically just recited the entire novella, but wow I didn’t expect it to have such an impact on me. Like obviously it was going to be emotionally heavy, but wow I did not anticipate that. I cannot wait to continue the next book and I need the final book to be out now, please and thank you. Because I don’t know how long I can go without knowing that Eden and her men will get their happy ending and how. So please Miss Rebecca Quinn, give us the next book 😭😭.
Favorite quotes/scenes:
“ Is it wrong to want someone gentle? Hopeful? I’ve seen so much shit. It’d be nice to be with someone . . . kind.” (My sweet Jayk 😭😭)
“I don’t want to fuck him. I just want our lives to bleed together until we die. Until we die together. He doesn’t get to do that without me.” (I knew there was more to grumpy Dominic 😢)
“If he has to go through this, then he’s doing it with me right here with him. Maybe it’ll only hurt half as much if we take the hurt together.”
“You’re my brother. You’re the only real family I ever had. You’re the only one I can’t lose. I need you. I need you for this. I can’t do it alone. I know you lost everything today, but you still have me. You always have me.”
“Someone has to carry the load, Beau. That’s what a soldier does. We carry that fucking load so they don’t have to. And when you can’t carry it, I’ll carry you, too.”
“It’s not the family you want, Beau, but it’s the one we have.”
“I’m not making the same mistake again. I’m going to be there for my family. To keep them safe. To live with them . . . or to die with them. But we’re not going to be apart. Not anymore.” 🥺
MOMMIKINS: You’re BACK?! You get your ass over here NOW, baby! I miss that gorgeous face
POPSICLE: Ur mom is dranK
POPSICLE: dAnk
POPSICLE: DRUNK
POPSICLE: Phone sux. Wnt to call?
MOMMIKINS: HE’S drunk I’M fine.
MOMMIKINS: NO! WAIT! don’t come here! let’s do vegas! cha-CHING!
MOMMIKINS: i want to see someone pop a ping pong out of their hoo-ha! (That’s where he got his personality from 🥺)
“In this beat before death takes us, it’s not dying I fear. Only eternity without him.”
“If I’m to die, I’m dying without knowing what that might feel like. What those lips might taste like. How sweetly he might sleep beside me each night. I get this, though. Even as I feel my skin begin to burn, I have him in my arms.”
“You didn’t suck today.” (Jaykob)
“I believe you called me a bimbo?”
“Whatever. Heat of the moment. Not like it’s true. Bimbos are hot.”
“I’m fine, Lucien, I’m . . . I’m wonderful.”
A hint of a blush singes his cheeks, but his smile kicks up, cocky and warm.
“Yeah. You are.”
“You were wonderful, too, you know.”
“What am I? Dog shit? I’m fine, too. Thanks for asking.” (Jaykob 🤣)
“The other cars aren’t here.”
“It’s fine. Less lines here. It’s just—”
With a loud, electric hiss, the gate opens, and relief floods me as Jaykob ducks inside.
“The back way. It’s my favorite.”
Ceaseless brat.
“I haven’t had anywhere near enough sex.”
“Well, now doesn’t feel like the most appropriate time to rectify that, but—” (Oh Simon, you were a good one 😢)
“Oh, shut it.”
“These books are my parents. My friends. My only helpers. If it’s the end of all things, then at least I’ll end it with a good book.” (Our badass librarian 🥹)
First off, I highly recommend reading this after book 1, Ensnared, because it’s better if you connect with the characters and understand them first and then get into this. But holy fuck, reading this was so crazy and people should definitely look into trigger warnings before reading this because it’s a dystopian book, so it’s very similar to real life. But wow getting to see how they all reacted to this and how they got to be where they are in Ensnared was crazy. There will definitely be spoilers, just so you know.
Starting off with Jaykob, it was so crazy to see their lives before it went to shit, even though he already knew something was off before they learned about it. But I freaking knew it, there is more to Jaykob than the big angry persona he portrays, he justs wants to fit with someone and doesn’t want to be judged, but that’s what keeps happening. He didn’t even feel like the other guys were his family, like the other guys feel about each other 😭😭. And I’m thinking just wait Jayk, you’ll meet Eden, it’ll take four years, but you’ll find someone who accepts you 😭😭. And then Domininic, I felt so bad for him because he easily went into work mode, until he heard that Beau’s family farm, where Beau was just visiting was too close to the blast zone and he broke down thinking that he died. It was so sad but so nice to see how much he loves Beau, like he genuinely didn’t think he could live without him. And then when he saw that he was there and made it back, I felt happy but sad for him. Happy because he didn’t lose his soulmate, but sad because he had to break the new to Beau who was offline and just happily listening to a podcast. And then poor Beau’s chapter 😭😭. He just had a good weekend with his family, laughing, having fun, getting drunk, and left with his moms apple pie, the smell of the drinks they had lingering, on his way back to his other family listening to a podcast, unbeknownst the world was ending 😭. And once he found out, his grief and sorrow overwhelmed him so much because he was just with his family, that he almost killed himself 😢. But thank goodness Jasper and Dominic were able to snap him out it, and Dominic reminded him that even though he lost one family, he still has another 😭. And that’s what brought him back. And then poor Lucky, his entire chapter he kept trying to convince himself that his parents had made it out of California like they had drunkenly planned with him. Also, it was nice to see his messages with them, like it’s no wonder where he got his exuberance from. But then the poor guy went through an emotional rollercoaster with Jasper. Seeing that he wasn’t wearing a ring anymore and being happy about it to Jasper crushing all of his hopes and dreams. But then Jasper saved his life 😢. But HOLY FUCK, Jasper’s chapter. When they all had thought the blast from base was going to take them out he said this about Lucky ”If this is my last moment, if I’m to be stardust and a dream, then let it be with him. Let our dust spin out together. He’ll be my dream through every galaxy. Our hearts will beat their last as one.” 😭😭😭😭 What the fuck. That is the most absolute sweetest thing I’ve ever heard. And there are so many more that I loved that I’ll add at the end. But I liked how his chapter ended since Beau shared his apple pie from his mom just like she wanted him to with Jasper telling the guys that he knew a safe place, Bristlebrook. It just makes me sad to know now that they all had each other, and Eden had no one 😭😭.
Now finally, our girl Eden’s chapter. This poor sweet girl was already going through it before the world went to shit, and then she had to face all of that on her own until she didn’t. Until that sweet cop Simon, who she had saw earlier, joined her at the library doors. And he was being so calm, kind, collected, helpful, and flirty that he was exactly what she needed. He saw her, unlike everyone else who was trampling her and protecting themselves. He gave her the much needed humor that she needed, he attached a string to her glasses to prevent them from falling when he saw that it kept slipping off. Like he didn’t need to do that, no one else would’ve, especially with the state the world is in. He hugged her and let her cry it out when it became overwhelming for her. He made sure they had a plan on how to survive together. And it was going so perfectly, until it didn’t. And that’s when I sobbed at his fear of dying, of knowing that Eden was going to be alone for four years, of seeing Eden not knowing what to do, and because of the fact that he didn’t want her to leave him alone and she didn’t. She stayed until his last breath 😢. I wish that poor man had survived longer, that he had survived with Eden and they could’ve kept each other happy. He was just a young guy who was just starting his job when the world went to shit, did his best, found a girl he could’ve survived and stayed happy with, I’m just glad she stayed in his last moments.
Gosh, that was so long and I basically just recited the entire novella, but wow I didn’t expect it to have such an impact on me. Like obviously it was going to be emotionally heavy, but wow I did not anticipate that. I cannot wait to continue the next book and I need the final book to be out now, please and thank you. Because I don’t know how long I can go without knowing that Eden and her men will get their happy ending and how. So please Miss Rebecca Quinn, give us the next book 😭😭.
Favorite quotes/scenes:
“ Is it wrong to want someone gentle? Hopeful? I’ve seen so much shit. It’d be nice to be with someone . . . kind.” (My sweet Jayk 😭😭)
“I don’t want to fuck him. I just want our lives to bleed together until we die. Until we die together. He doesn’t get to do that without me.” (I knew there was more to grumpy Dominic 😢)
“If he has to go through this, then he’s doing it with me right here with him. Maybe it’ll only hurt half as much if we take the hurt together.”
“You’re my brother. You’re the only real family I ever had. You’re the only one I can’t lose. I need you. I need you for this. I can’t do it alone. I know you lost everything today, but you still have me. You always have me.”
“Someone has to carry the load, Beau. That’s what a soldier does. We carry that fucking load so they don’t have to. And when you can’t carry it, I’ll carry you, too.”
“It’s not the family you want, Beau, but it’s the one we have.”
“I’m not making the same mistake again. I’m going to be there for my family. To keep them safe. To live with them . . . or to die with them. But we’re not going to be apart. Not anymore.” 🥺
MOMMIKINS: You’re BACK?! You get your ass over here NOW, baby! I miss that gorgeous face
POPSICLE: Ur mom is dranK
POPSICLE: dAnk
POPSICLE: DRUNK
POPSICLE: Phone sux. Wnt to call?
MOMMIKINS: HE’S drunk I’M fine.
MOMMIKINS: NO! WAIT! don’t come here! let’s do vegas! cha-CHING!
MOMMIKINS: i want to see someone pop a ping pong out of their hoo-ha! (That’s where he got his personality from 🥺)
“In this beat before death takes us, it’s not dying I fear. Only eternity without him.”
“If I’m to die, I’m dying without knowing what that might feel like. What those lips might taste like. How sweetly he might sleep beside me each night. I get this, though. Even as I feel my skin begin to burn, I have him in my arms.”
“You didn’t suck today.” (Jaykob)
“I believe you called me a bimbo?”
“Whatever. Heat of the moment. Not like it’s true. Bimbos are hot.”
“I’m fine, Lucien, I’m . . . I’m wonderful.”
A hint of a blush singes his cheeks, but his smile kicks up, cocky and warm.
“Yeah. You are.”
“You were wonderful, too, you know.”
“What am I? Dog shit? I’m fine, too. Thanks for asking.” (Jaykob 🤣)
“The other cars aren’t here.”
“It’s fine. Less lines here. It’s just—”
With a loud, electric hiss, the gate opens, and relief floods me as Jaykob ducks inside.
“The back way. It’s my favorite.”
Ceaseless brat.
“I haven’t had anywhere near enough sex.”
“Well, now doesn’t feel like the most appropriate time to rectify that, but—” (Oh Simon, you were a good one 😢)
“Oh, shut it.”
“These books are my parents. My friends. My only helpers. If it’s the end of all things, then at least I’ll end it with a good book.” (Our badass librarian 🥹)
February 7, 2026
Audible - 3⭐️ I read this first because it was a prequel to the trilogy that I am now consuming. So duh. Read it first, right? When I finished listening to/reading “Day Dead” I was a little concerned because I’d already purchased the trilogy. I’m still glad I read it yet it is really not up to the caliber (thank goodness) of the trilogy, (I’m on book 2).
The actors narrators were top-tier fabulous! 10 out of five stars. 😉
The actors narrators were top-tier fabulous! 10 out of five stars. 😉
February 26, 2025
This broke me 😭😭😭😭 the Easter eggs in Eden’s story omfggggggg RQ you are a sadist !!!!! The way I need more of Jasper and Lucky 🫠
March 28, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Just finished binging the new audiobook with the most amazing cast of narrators.
🎙️ Sebastian York 🎙️Teddy Hamilton 🎙️ Jason Clarke 🎙️ JF Harding 🎙️ Avery Caris ALL amazing in DUET/full cast read.
Although this a prequel to the Brutes of Bristlebrook trilogy by Rebecca Quinn, which I hadn’t read as I started this one, I was totally onboard and completely consumed by the engaging drama and beautifully written characters.
As a new to this series reader, I enjoyed it as an introduction to these complex and intricate characters who all instantly hooked my curiosity with this glimpse into their complicated interconnected relationships and struggles on the eve of a nuclear event rendering the world and their lives, in shambles.
Initially intended to be read as you’ve immersed yourself in the og series (which had not!), I still enjoyed the 5,5 h audiobook and found it both incredibly moving and inspiring, not to mention enticing and momentarily hot AF.
The trilogy is centred around a sweet and sheltered librarian caught alone in a post apocalyptic America. A dark place where anything goes and nothing can be relied on. Fortunately she’ll come in contact with 5 intense and interconnected army men who, one by one, fall in love with her, creating an unconventional found family in the aftermath of a nuclear holocaust.
I’m still taken aback by the emotional strain the author managed to invoke in me in such a short read, and for characters I’d just been introduced to. Another impressive detail is her capability to clearly communicate 5 distinctly different personalities with individual wants, needs and traits, that came across in such an understated and organic way, that I felt a close connection to each and everyone of the men. Also letting me follow who’s who in conversation and action even though the chapters 1 PoV narrative vary in throughout this book -and I’m hoping the same can be said of the original trilogy…
So I’m off to search out the best deal on the audiobooks of the first and second ones in the trilogy that have dropped and hoping that the third one’s release isn’t that far off.
I’d wholeheartedly RECOMMEND jumping into this amazing pre post-apocalyptic prequel and coming along for the ride of the millennia,
IF -and that is IF you -like me- are a sucker for
📌 unconventional and unique relationships in various forms, that are
📌 interconnected and fluent in their structure yet with love and compassion as well as respect for each other.
Where
📌 high spirited characters with backbone and grit might struggling to make sense of what they’ve been taught to reject or repress throughout their lives.
📌 And if you -like me- enjoy when
📌 beautifully flawed and broken people find the support and strength to seamlessly fit together and genuinely connect on a level they never expected or dared to dream of.
Oh right, and with some
📌 creatively kinky and somewhat dubious situations thrown in as well.
📌 AND all this is
📌 narrated to perfection by of some of the most amazing and thought provoking voice actors out there.
👍 -Yes PLEASE! That’s something I’d gladly walk 500 miles to stick in my ear!
🎙️ Sebastian York 🎙️Teddy Hamilton 🎙️ Jason Clarke 🎙️ JF Harding 🎙️ Avery Caris ALL amazing in DUET/full cast read.
Although this a prequel to the Brutes of Bristlebrook trilogy by Rebecca Quinn, which I hadn’t read as I started this one, I was totally onboard and completely consumed by the engaging drama and beautifully written characters.
As a new to this series reader, I enjoyed it as an introduction to these complex and intricate characters who all instantly hooked my curiosity with this glimpse into their complicated interconnected relationships and struggles on the eve of a nuclear event rendering the world and their lives, in shambles.
Initially intended to be read as you’ve immersed yourself in the og series (which had not!), I still enjoyed the 5,5 h audiobook and found it both incredibly moving and inspiring, not to mention enticing and momentarily hot AF.
The trilogy is centred around a sweet and sheltered librarian caught alone in a post apocalyptic America. A dark place where anything goes and nothing can be relied on. Fortunately she’ll come in contact with 5 intense and interconnected army men who, one by one, fall in love with her, creating an unconventional found family in the aftermath of a nuclear holocaust.
I’m still taken aback by the emotional strain the author managed to invoke in me in such a short read, and for characters I’d just been introduced to. Another impressive detail is her capability to clearly communicate 5 distinctly different personalities with individual wants, needs and traits, that came across in such an understated and organic way, that I felt a close connection to each and everyone of the men. Also letting me follow who’s who in conversation and action even though the chapters 1 PoV narrative vary in throughout this book -and I’m hoping the same can be said of the original trilogy…
So I’m off to search out the best deal on the audiobooks of the first and second ones in the trilogy that have dropped and hoping that the third one’s release isn’t that far off.
I’d wholeheartedly RECOMMEND jumping into this amazing pre post-apocalyptic prequel and coming along for the ride of the millennia,
IF -and that is IF you -like me- are a sucker for
📌 unconventional and unique relationships in various forms, that are
📌 interconnected and fluent in their structure yet with love and compassion as well as respect for each other.
Where
📌 high spirited characters with backbone and grit might struggling to make sense of what they’ve been taught to reject or repress throughout their lives.
📌 And if you -like me- enjoy when
📌 beautifully flawed and broken people find the support and strength to seamlessly fit together and genuinely connect on a level they never expected or dared to dream of.
Oh right, and with some
📌 creatively kinky and somewhat dubious situations thrown in as well.
📌 AND all this is
📌 narrated to perfection by of some of the most amazing and thought provoking voice actors out there.
👍 -Yes PLEASE! That’s something I’d gladly walk 500 miles to stick in my ear!
July 29, 2025
So… this was a bit of a letdown.
I devoured the first book and jumped into this one (0.5) expecting to gain deeper insight into the characters I’d grown attached to, especially through the lens of the Day Death events. Instead, I got five overly long chapters, each focused on a different character, but without the emotional or narrative depth I was hoping for.
The pacing is rough. The first chapter? Painfully long. Mostly monologue, barely any interaction. It gets better after that, but it takes a while. I kept waiting for those gut-punch moments or quiet revelations about characters like Jasper or Siu-Men… but they never really came. Instead, I was emotionally held hostage by a cinnamon apple pie. I don’t think I’ll ever recover 🤭🍎🥧😅
And then there’s Eden’s chapter. The finale. Somehow the longest and the slowest. I genuinely struggled to stay engaged.
I wanted to love this, truly. But while the concept is solid, the execution left me detached and kind of disappointed.
That said, I’m still one hundred percent picking up Book 2. I loved the first one way too much to stop now.
I devoured the first book and jumped into this one (0.5) expecting to gain deeper insight into the characters I’d grown attached to, especially through the lens of the Day Death events. Instead, I got five overly long chapters, each focused on a different character, but without the emotional or narrative depth I was hoping for.
The pacing is rough. The first chapter? Painfully long. Mostly monologue, barely any interaction. It gets better after that, but it takes a while. I kept waiting for those gut-punch moments or quiet revelations about characters like Jasper or Siu-Men… but they never really came. Instead, I was emotionally held hostage by a cinnamon apple pie. I don’t think I’ll ever recover 🤭🍎🥧😅
And then there’s Eden’s chapter. The finale. Somehow the longest and the slowest. I genuinely struggled to stay engaged.
I wanted to love this, truly. But while the concept is solid, the execution left me detached and kind of disappointed.
That said, I’m still one hundred percent picking up Book 2. I loved the first one way too much to stop now.
October 24, 2025
Wow, this hit hard. I had tears streaming in parts. The devastation, the trauma, the relationship dynamics. Dom's grief, then Beau's. The inner dialog of desolation and despair. I knew going in that this would be bleak, it is the end of the world and all, but holy crap!
Simon absolutely broke me. I listened to this after giving book 1 a re-read and I could swear Eden briefly mentions Simon but I couldn't find it again.
I appreciated that this prequel gave so much insight into both Eden's and Lucky's hang ups. Why she was compelled to stay to help even under the worst conditions and why he was such a magpie for weapons.
Anyway, 5 stars highly recommend. I'm off to find a room full of puppies to lock myself in for a few weeks to try to erase all this emotional damage...
Simon absolutely broke me. I listened to this after giving book 1 a re-read and I could swear Eden briefly mentions Simon but I couldn't find it again.
I appreciated that this prequel gave so much insight into both Eden's and Lucky's hang ups. Why she was compelled to stay to help even under the worst conditions and why he was such a magpie for weapons.
Anyway, 5 stars highly recommend. I'm off to find a room full of puppies to lock myself in for a few weeks to try to erase all this emotional damage...
June 11, 2025
I love this novella and the insight we are gifted with about what happened on that day the world ended to our beloved Brutes and their Eden! It was sad, tense and so frightening, to say the least and sets up the story, adding layers to an already amazing series. I can’t wait to read the final book on the series that comes out next week.
September 4, 2025
Уф, това беше по-трудно за четене, отколкото предполагах. Особено главата от гледната точка на Идън... Мисля, че съм готова да мина към третата и последна книга от трилогията Entwined. Въпреки, че ще ми е истински мъчно да се разделя с Главорезите и тяхната библиотекарка...
Финална оценка: 4,5⭐
Финална оценка: 4,5⭐
September 18, 2025
Listened to this short novella along side reading book two Entangled. It gives you each characters POV on the day everything changed (Day Death)how they are connected and their decision to make their way to Bristle-brook. I’d say a must read if reading the trilogy. Great audio once again from a full cast.
September 19, 2025
This was everything I needed it to be!!! I’m so heartbroken that I’ve just read the last of the loveable brutes and their girl.
I’m not normally one to enjoy prequels but this was perfection.
I didn’t realise how much I needed to hear the origin stories of the characters on day death but knowing how it happened and feeling their fear, has deepened my love for them even more.
I think I’m ready for a re read of the books now.
Thank you so much Rebecca Quinn for thinking up these wonderfully flawed characters for us to enjoy. I love each of them and they will live in my heart always….
I’m not normally one to enjoy prequels but this was perfection.
I didn’t realise how much I needed to hear the origin stories of the characters on day death but knowing how it happened and feeling their fear, has deepened my love for them even more.
I think I’m ready for a re read of the books now.
Thank you so much Rebecca Quinn for thinking up these wonderfully flawed characters for us to enjoy. I love each of them and they will live in my heart always….
February 2, 2026
Highly recommend reading this prequel after reading book 1. It answered many of my questions and gave more insight for the characters. Is it a big deal if you skip it? No. However, if you enjoyed the first book you will probably like this.
I actually would have liked a bit more background from this book, maybe a separate chapter for the days leading up to Death Day. Enjoyable read nonetheless.
3.5/5
I actually would have liked a bit more background from this book, maybe a separate chapter for the days leading up to Death Day. Enjoyable read nonetheless.
3.5/5
June 5, 2025
A 200 page prequel novella about our fave characters from Ensnared. A showcase of the events that occurred on ‘Death Day’ - the day the apocalypse took place. Feeling impatient and just want book 3 of the series out now 🥲
June 16, 2025
4.75⭐️
July 19, 2025
Well that was intense. I’m happy that I got to read what happened initially. I loved how it spanned through the POVs and yet I was totally waiting for Thomas’s.
December 15, 2025
In my opinion, this is best read after the series.
December 18, 2025
Oooft, this one’s heavy but I loved revisiting much loved characters and all the little Easter eggs that connect with the main series made me smile through the sadness. 🥹
February 1, 2026
I’m big fans of the Brutes, so enjoyed reading this backstory.
February 16, 2025
The one with the apocalypse.
This is not the brutes of bristlebook I was expecting. The second book ended on a cliffhanger and I’ve been dying to know what happens next! So imagine my surprise when this prequel novella comes out.
I liked knowing how all the characters started out, but a lot of this information was already discussed. Jaspers feelings toward Lucky. Dom being…well a Dom. Eden being a librarian. Although now it makes sense why she got into the herbalist thing. Feelings of usefulness.
But seriously, where is the next book?
This is not the brutes of bristlebook I was expecting. The second book ended on a cliffhanger and I’ve been dying to know what happens next! So imagine my surprise when this prequel novella comes out.
I liked knowing how all the characters started out, but a lot of this information was already discussed. Jaspers feelings toward Lucky. Dom being…well a Dom. Eden being a librarian. Although now it makes sense why she got into the herbalist thing. Feelings of usefulness.
But seriously, where is the next book?
July 2, 2025
I read this book after Ensnared and it gives a lot of insight and background info on the characters and what happened to each character on the day of the 'apocalypse' and leading up to what happened in the 4 years before Ensnared picks up.
Now going into book 2 with a lot more understanding for the characters.
Now going into book 2 with a lot more understanding for the characters.
October 9, 2025
I cried, so hard at this book my husband thought something was seriously wrong with me.
Most everyone I see says read it first, DON'T. Eden's chapter hits harder after everything and you come to realize the little easter eggs that were in her past for where she would end up.
Rabbits foot + Jasper Cross = SAFETY
Jasper... Jasper I need the leather cuffs, the flogger, and the blind fold to work this one out.
My safe word is BRISTLEBROOK.
Most everyone I see says read it first, DON'T. Eden's chapter hits harder after everything and you come to realize the little easter eggs that were in her past for where she would end up.
Rabbits foot + Jasper Cross = SAFETY
Jasper... Jasper I need the leather cuffs, the flogger, and the blind fold to work this one out.
My safe word is BRISTLEBROOK.
October 18, 2025
Could not wait to snatch this up to get my fix while waiting for Entwined!!
I am so in love with all of these characters and it was heartbreaking to pay witness their apocalyptic origins. Beau’s experience in particular ripped me to shreds - I can’t even imagine starting a car trip and saying goodbye to loving and cherished relatives, who are very much alive, and finishing it with the discovery of their sudden demise. Tears were definitely FLOWING when they all came together to share in his mom’s last apple pie.
After finishing I made a special bookmark just for this book, with an apple pie charm dangling from it.
I also loved Eden’s origins. When she initially left the library with her doomed companion I was muttering to myself “get the books!! You need reference material for survival!!” She’s so so much more than she gives herself credit for. I want to hug her and tell her she won’t have to go thru this alone for long.
Bravo Becky Quinn!! I’m very much looking forward to the final installment.
I am so in love with all of these characters and it was heartbreaking to pay witness their apocalyptic origins. Beau’s experience in particular ripped me to shreds - I can’t even imagine starting a car trip and saying goodbye to loving and cherished relatives, who are very much alive, and finishing it with the discovery of their sudden demise. Tears were definitely FLOWING when they all came together to share in his mom’s last apple pie.
After finishing I made a special bookmark just for this book, with an apple pie charm dangling from it.
I also loved Eden’s origins. When she initially left the library with her doomed companion I was muttering to myself “get the books!! You need reference material for survival!!” She’s so so much more than she gives herself credit for. I want to hug her and tell her she won’t have to go thru this alone for long.
Bravo Becky Quinn!! I’m very much looking forward to the final installment.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 21, 2025
This book relates everything went to hell for Eden and her Brutes and is better enjoyed after reading Entangled. It gives us so much more depth to the characters and a lot of their actions and feelings from te first two books.
If you want to know more about Jakob, Dom, Beau, Lucky, Jasper and Eden, don’t hesitate to dive in. But pace yourself because each chapter is heartbreaking in its own way and no one is safe emotionally.
SPOLERS AHEAD
Day Death dive deeper into each character and their traumas, exposing all their complexity.
Jayk and his insecurities but also his thoughtfulness for others and especially his friends (he can pretend all he wants, he cares about them all deeply).
Dom and his efficiency but also the weight he was raised to carry for everyone else. And the moment he falls apart when he realizes that Beau might be dead? My heart broke.
Beau's reaction when he realizes that his family is dead was heartbreaking... But when he decides that he has another family? That he can still save his friends and that's what keeps him fighting and living?
Lucky's chapter was the first one where I laughed because he is just being Lucky. But it was also bittersweet because he is in denial about his family, he has to face Jasper and his feelings for him and there is so much shit going on at the same time and pretending to be funny and nonchalant is just Lucky's way of coping with everything.
And Jasper? You understand how he felt with the other Brutes since he wasn't on the field with them. And how much he wants to protect all of them
Finally, Day Death explores Eden's loneliness, which is the core of her character and what drives her. She has felt alone her entire life and the Brutes finally offer her a home.
I also loved getting more on the Brutes' relationships pre apocalypse. They are a group, a team, a family and all their interactions, the way they care for each other. When we meet them at the beginning of Ensnared, they are all tense, ready to snap and their relationships are ready to explode. But Day Death tell us why they stuck together, how they could work if everything was okay.
It destroyed me and I loved it. If you are a fan of Bristelbrook, go read this one. It's a must.
And if you have the opportunity, listen to the audiobook. The voices of Jason Clarke, Sebastian York, JF Harding, Teddy Hamilton and Avery Caris makes everything more intense. They are all the perfect match for their characters
If you want to know more about Jakob, Dom, Beau, Lucky, Jasper and Eden, don’t hesitate to dive in. But pace yourself because each chapter is heartbreaking in its own way and no one is safe emotionally.
SPOLERS AHEAD
Day Death dive deeper into each character and their traumas, exposing all their complexity.
Jayk and his insecurities but also his thoughtfulness for others and especially his friends (he can pretend all he wants, he cares about them all deeply).
Dom and his efficiency but also the weight he was raised to carry for everyone else. And the moment he falls apart when he realizes that Beau might be dead? My heart broke.
Beau's reaction when he realizes that his family is dead was heartbreaking... But when he decides that he has another family? That he can still save his friends and that's what keeps him fighting and living?
Lucky's chapter was the first one where I laughed because he is just being Lucky. But it was also bittersweet because he is in denial about his family, he has to face Jasper and his feelings for him and there is so much shit going on at the same time and pretending to be funny and nonchalant is just Lucky's way of coping with everything.
And Jasper? You understand how he felt with the other Brutes since he wasn't on the field with them. And how much he wants to protect all of them
Finally, Day Death explores Eden's loneliness, which is the core of her character and what drives her. She has felt alone her entire life and the Brutes finally offer her a home.
I also loved getting more on the Brutes' relationships pre apocalypse. They are a group, a team, a family and all their interactions, the way they care for each other. When we meet them at the beginning of Ensnared, they are all tense, ready to snap and their relationships are ready to explode. But Day Death tell us why they stuck together, how they could work if everything was okay.
It destroyed me and I loved it. If you are a fan of Bristelbrook, go read this one. It's a must.
And if you have the opportunity, listen to the audiobook. The voices of Jason Clarke, Sebastian York, JF Harding, Teddy Hamilton and Avery Caris makes everything more intense. They are all the perfect match for their characters
November 27, 2025
When the World Ends in a Club… and You’re Glad You Came
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐✩
Heat: 🔥🔥
Tears: 💧
📚E-BOOK📚&🎧AUDIO 🎧
So this is the prequel to the Brutes of Bristlebrook series I’ve read before—and yes, I still have the last installment waiting for me! Even though I originally read the books as they were published, it was such a treat to listen to this story told by the characters themselves in a full cast narration. 🎙️ Sebastian York, Teddy Hamilton, Jason Clarke, JF Harding, and Avery Caris were all amazing in this duet-style performance. It really elevated the experience.
The novella gives us a raw, intense glimpse into that day—the day the world ended for our beloved Brutes and their Eden. One night. Six stories. Total nuclear annihilation. What was supposed to be a night of kink at a BDSM club turns into chaos as bombs fall and cities burn. The Brutes have to pull together, protect civilians, and survive, even as their own families disintegrate into ash. It’s dark, it’s bleak, and yet it’s gripping.
One of the most impressive aspects of Rebecca Quinn’s writing is her ability to craft five distinctly different personalities—each with unique wants, needs, and traits—without ever feeling forced. It’s so organic that I felt connected to every single one of them. Even with shifting POVs, I never lost track of who was who, which is a huge win for me. I’m hoping the same clarity holds true in the original trilogy.
This novella is a gift for fans of the series, offering insight into what happened on that catastrophic night. It’s not light reading—there are moments that are truly bleak—so please check the content notes if you need them. But if you’re ready for an emotional, character-driven apocalypse with a side of kink, this is worth your time.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐✩
Heat: 🔥🔥
Tears: 💧
📚E-BOOK📚&🎧AUDIO 🎧
So this is the prequel to the Brutes of Bristlebrook series I’ve read before—and yes, I still have the last installment waiting for me! Even though I originally read the books as they were published, it was such a treat to listen to this story told by the characters themselves in a full cast narration. 🎙️ Sebastian York, Teddy Hamilton, Jason Clarke, JF Harding, and Avery Caris were all amazing in this duet-style performance. It really elevated the experience.
The novella gives us a raw, intense glimpse into that day—the day the world ended for our beloved Brutes and their Eden. One night. Six stories. Total nuclear annihilation. What was supposed to be a night of kink at a BDSM club turns into chaos as bombs fall and cities burn. The Brutes have to pull together, protect civilians, and survive, even as their own families disintegrate into ash. It’s dark, it’s bleak, and yet it’s gripping.
One of the most impressive aspects of Rebecca Quinn’s writing is her ability to craft five distinctly different personalities—each with unique wants, needs, and traits—without ever feeling forced. It’s so organic that I felt connected to every single one of them. Even with shifting POVs, I never lost track of who was who, which is a huge win for me. I’m hoping the same clarity holds true in the original trilogy.
This novella is a gift for fans of the series, offering insight into what happened on that catastrophic night. It’s not light reading—there are moments that are truly bleak—so please check the content notes if you need them. But if you’re ready for an emotional, character-driven apocalypse with a side of kink, this is worth your time.
December 3, 2025
Day Death — the prequel novella to the Brutes of Bristlebrook series — blew me away. From the moment I started, I was wholly invested in the harrowing night where everything changed: the night the world broke. The story introduces a cast of characters affectionately known as “The Brutes,” war‑worn men on the brink of exhaustion and trauma, and a seemingly ordinary librarian named Eden.
The world-building is dark, visceral, and raw — a collapsed world drenched in fear and uncertainty. But amidst the chaos, Rebecca Quinn gives us glimpses of vulnerability, loyalty, and hope. The dual narrative structure — following both the Brutes and Eden — builds a beautiful tension between survival, grief, and connection
Then there’s the audiobook — phenomenal doesn’t begin to cover it. The full‑cast narration brings each character’s voice, trauma, and strength to life in the most vivid way possible. The pacing, emotion, and raw tension resonated more deeply than I could’ve imagined on the page alone. Listening to it felt like being right there, fighting for survival alongside them.
As a prequel, Day Death doesn’t just set up the Brutes of Bristlebrook series — it enriches it. But even on its own, it’s a harrowing, beautiful, and unforgettable tale of apocalypse, grief, survival, and unlikely bonds. If you love dark romance with emotional depth, found family, high stakes, and raw humanity, this is a must‑read (and listen).
The world-building is dark, visceral, and raw — a collapsed world drenched in fear and uncertainty. But amidst the chaos, Rebecca Quinn gives us glimpses of vulnerability, loyalty, and hope. The dual narrative structure — following both the Brutes and Eden — builds a beautiful tension between survival, grief, and connection
Then there’s the audiobook — phenomenal doesn’t begin to cover it. The full‑cast narration brings each character’s voice, trauma, and strength to life in the most vivid way possible. The pacing, emotion, and raw tension resonated more deeply than I could’ve imagined on the page alone. Listening to it felt like being right there, fighting for survival alongside them.
As a prequel, Day Death doesn’t just set up the Brutes of Bristlebrook series — it enriches it. But even on its own, it’s a harrowing, beautiful, and unforgettable tale of apocalypse, grief, survival, and unlikely bonds. If you love dark romance with emotional depth, found family, high stakes, and raw humanity, this is a must‑read (and listen).
September 2, 2025
“‘Oh no. Not good. I have not done enough cardio to handle an apocalypse.’”
Rating: 4/5
Spice: 2
Method: Kindle Unlimited
This novella takes place before Ensnared - basically showing the very start of the apocalypse that sets all of our characters on their journey.
I really liked how it explained a LOT of things about each character, making me rethink some of their actions and conversations from the other 2 books. Honestly, I’d recommend reading it before Entwined (book 3).. and maybe even before Entangled (book 2)?
My favourite chapter was probably Jayk’s - it just explained so much about who he is and his personality and made reading Entwined all the more enjoyable.
The story shifts POVs chapter by chapter, showing how each character is dealing with the fallout from their perspective and how they see each other. I found that structure really interesting (and was relieved that each chapter wasn’t just a repeat from a different perspective). Everything tied together nicely in the end, except Eden’s POV, but that’s because she’s somewhere else during this time.
Do you have to read the novella? No. But it definitely adds to the experience!
Rating: 4/5
Spice: 2
Method: Kindle Unlimited
This novella takes place before Ensnared - basically showing the very start of the apocalypse that sets all of our characters on their journey.
I really liked how it explained a LOT of things about each character, making me rethink some of their actions and conversations from the other 2 books. Honestly, I’d recommend reading it before Entwined (book 3).. and maybe even before Entangled (book 2)?
My favourite chapter was probably Jayk’s - it just explained so much about who he is and his personality and made reading Entwined all the more enjoyable.
The story shifts POVs chapter by chapter, showing how each character is dealing with the fallout from their perspective and how they see each other. I found that structure really interesting (and was relieved that each chapter wasn’t just a repeat from a different perspective). Everything tied together nicely in the end, except Eden’s POV, but that’s because she’s somewhere else during this time.
Do you have to read the novella? No. But it definitely adds to the experience!
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