Out of the Ashes: A Young Woman's Survival of White Island, and the Mother's Love That Saved Her

by Stephanie Browitt, Marie Browitt

The story of one young woman's survival against the odds, and how the love of her mother saved her.


When the White Island volcano erupted in New Zealand in 2019, it shattered the lives of Stephanie and Marie Browitt.

Stephanie, just 23 years old, suffered horrific burns to 70 per cent of her body and lost her younger sister, Krystal Eve, in the tragedy. Both Stephanie and her father, Paul, were placed in an induced coma, leaving Marie to face the the potential loss of her entire family. As Marie ran from one ICU room to another, Paul lost his battle to survive.

Out of the Ashes is the extraordinary story of how Stephanie miraculously fought back, with her remarkable mum beside her every step of the way, and how mother and daughter were forced to find strength in each other to survive the unthinkable.

This deeply moving story explores Stephanie's fight for survival, her gruelling recovery, and her rise as an advocate for body positivity and resilience. Through heartbreak, hope and their unbreakable bond, Stephanie and Marie Browitt show us the power of love, courage and the human spirit.

Genres: Audiobook, Memoir, Nonfiction

Audible Audio

Published March 31, 2026

Reviews

[Akaash · Rating 5 out of 5]

Out of the Ashes.

First, and foremost, a story to honour the memories of Krystal and Paul Browitt. Two lives, of many, prematurely extinguished. Krystal, a special young woman. A wild child with a heart that embraced all. A woman who yearned to make the world better, committed to justice and equity for those around her. A daughter, a sister, a partner, and a friend who had all the promise in the world. Paul, an incredible man. A father who loved, a husband who cared, and a person adored by the community. Wit, humour, and wisdom were the gifts he bequeathed to the world.

Second, the tale of Stephanie and Marie Browitt. One of grief. One of strength. And one of hope. Stephanie, more than just a young woman - a beam of light for those in her life. Before her tragedy, she was known for her humour, her heart, and her generosity. Now, after the fact, very much a phoenix rising out of the ashes - an inspiration to young women and burns victims around the world. Marie, a mother to all. A grounding force. The woman that’d tell you what you needed to hear. A woman that’d make sure you were always safe. A woman that knew how to bring people together. A woman that embraced with open arms, and an open heart. One that refused to give up, and leaned into strength seldom seen in this day and age.

Third, a story of connection, love, and family. Their story speaks to the value of family, the importance of love, and the healing power of connection. Through their dual perspectives, both Stephanie and Marie speak to how these three things were vital in their journey.

Fourth, a testament to the kindness to be found in and amongst a world that focuses on the individual. Without kindness, without altruism, and without a regard for our fellow people, no one would have survived White Island. Neither those that were on the island, nor those that were left behind. Stephanie would have died, if not for this kindness. Marie would have died, if not for the kindness that saved Stephanie.

Fifth, an indictment on decision-making grounded in greed, profit, and material gain. Royal Caribbean is revealed to have had the tools to prevent this tragedy. Through inaction, through omission, and through a desire only to maintain a revenue stream funneling into their billion-dollar pockets: we are given insight into the real consequences of capitalism and greed.

And sixth, a blueprint in what the future holds, and the power we have in shaping it. We have no idea what tomorrow will bring. We have no idea when our time might come. What we do have an idea about, and what choice we do have, is who we are today - so that when tomorrow comes, we are at our very best. Stephanie and Marie, through their respective stories, teach a simple lesson — honour the past, including those that have shaped you; acknowledge the present for what it is; and carry forward all that makes you who you are.

And for a book that does so much, I am impressed at the balance and flow between being humourous, being emotive, being raw, being witty, being upsetting, being hopeful, and offering perspective.

I can’t recommend this book highly enough.

[Robyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an absolutely remarkable book from two remarkable women.
I have followed Steph on social media for a while now so I was eager to read this book. And I was utterly blown away.
As someone who has spent time in ICU and has had several near-death experiences (my situation was by no means as severe as Steph's though, I hasten to add), I not only read this book through the lense of someone learning and understanding both her and her mum's experiences, but I also related to some (definitely not all) of Steph's experiences of ICU and recovery. There's something about that that makes you feel less alone. Though of course I wish this had never happened to this beautiful family.
There were many times when I cried whilst reading this, even though I knew Steph's story. It was an honour to learn more about Paul and Krystal. I won't forget their story, ever.

[Antoinette · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was one of the most devastating and most uplifting books I have ever listened to. I don't know if I will be able to go on if I was in their shoes.

[Stefanie Robinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is the personal account of Stephanie's fight to survive after being caught in an volcanic eruption while on a family vacation. It is also the personal account of her mother's desperate fight to advocate for her family and hold on to her surviving child. Stephanie's family took a cruise with Royal Caribbean to New Zealand. While there, they were offered the opportunity to go on an excursion to tour a volcano. (I have a whole lot of opinions about the way the tours were done, the way Royal Caribbean behaved, and how amazed I am that her mom didn't level that entire side of the globe for the things that happened!!! I won't go into detail much as not to ruin the book.) Before the eruption, the day would have been bad enough for me to charge it anyway. The ride there was longer than anticipated. The boat ride was choppy and made passengers seasick during the hour and a half ride. They had to get on little inflatable boats that ferried them from the tour boat to the most pathetic looking dock I have ever seen in all my days. If that wasn't enough, that rickety, rusty, tiny ladder to climb from the boat out onto the pathetic dock would have been MY LAST STRAW. Once on the island, they were provided hard hats and gas masks, and only then were alerted to the risk level of volcanic activity for that day. At the end of their tour, on the way back to the boat, the volcano erupted. A pyroclastic cloud washed over the fleeing tour group. Unfortunately, there weren't many places to flee to on the barren volcano. Stephanie was burned 70% of her body, her father was burned 80% of her body, and her sister died on the helicopter ride back to the mainland, but her injuries were not detailed in this book. The amount of time they waited for someone to come rescue them was heinous, but I am glad that there are kind and courageous people in the world that jumped in on their private helicopters to rescue them since the government decided actual rescue helicopters could not go. (Again, I have a whole lot of opinions about this, but I will refrain so I do not spoil the book.)

I am shocked, but also not shocked, at the way that Royal Caribbean acted in the wake of this disaster. I just told my sister about this book and all of my opinions about it and the SORRY AS ALL HELL things that happened. I felt justified because she made the same faces and had similar comments. I am glad they decided to sue them. Even though they did not take it all the way to trial, it was the fact of the matter. Settling out of court, to me, means they knew they were stone cold wrong and scared about the negative publicity and potential for a jury to award the Browitt family more money than the settlement. I understand they cannot disclose the amount they got, but it was mentioned it was enough to provide for Stephanie for quite some time. That is the VERY LEAST they could have done, in my opinion. I love that Marie was tenacious and determined, despite the setbacks and long road she took to get there. I am also glad that they were able to go back to New Zealand and were greeted with love and compassion by the Māori people. I am also very glad they got to meet the helicopter pilots that saved them, who were happy to provide them information about that day to fill in the gaps in their memories and awareness.


I vaguely remember this event being in the news, but I did not know very much about it until I saw the Netflix documentary about White Island. I looked up survivors and discovered Stephanie on TikTok and Instagram. I have been following her recovery and learning a lot from her for quite a while. I was so glad she was able and willing to recount her experiences in this book. I very rarely ever rate a book five stars, but I am giving this one a firm FIVE. I think Stephanie is strong beyond words. I am so proud of her for working through her pain, injuries, and trauma every day. I know she must have bad days when her pain and injuries bother her, her memories bother her, and her grief bothers her. Despite that, she has been lovely to interact with on social media. I have appreciated all of her videos discussing burn injuries and the healing process. In this book, she mentions finding some burn survivors that really gave her encouragement when she needed it most, and I feel certain that she is that encouragement for someone. I am so glad to see that she is gaining confidence in herself every day. Marie is also an incredible person. I cannot imagine being in her position. I am so proud of her for fighting for her family and doing everything she could to help them. I highly recommend this book. If you are interested in another account of this horrible disaster, a tour guide that survived this eruption also has a book out.

[Caitlin · Rating 3 out of 5]

Out of the Ashes – Book Review

Out of the Ashes is a deeply moving story that captures the strength and resilience between a mother and daughter. Written with honesty and love, the book explores the complexities of their relationship, showing both the tenderness and the challenges they face together.

What stands out most is the raw authenticity. At times, the story feels confronting, but that’s what gives it power—it doesn’t shy away from difficult emotions or experiences. Instead, it leans into them, creating a narrative that feels real and relatable.

The bond between mother and daughter is the heart of the book. Through moments of struggle, forgiveness, and growth, their connection becomes a testament to enduring love and inner strength.

That said, the story can feel repetitive at times, revisiting similar themes and emotions more than necessary. While this reinforces the depth of their experiences, it may slow the pace for some readers.

I also found the mother difficult at times—she came across as hard work and often very focused on herself, which made parts of the story frustrating and a little unbalanced.

While some sections feel heavy, they are balanced by moments of warmth and hope. Out of the Ashes ultimately leaves you with a sense that even through hardship, healing and connection are possible.

A powerful and honest read about love, resilience, and the unbreakable ties of family.

[Deanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is both heartbreaking and deeply heartwarming, an eye-opening reminder of how fragile life can be. It tells of a tragedy that should never have happened, yet did, leaving a lasting impact on so many lives. It makes you reflect on how many families are quietly carrying grief while others, unknowingly, take their own for granted.
It’s a powerful reminder to cherish life, appreciate what you have, and love those around you every single day. We often believe something like this could never happen to us, yet for some, it is an unimaginable reality.
Stephanie and Marie are two incredibly strong women who have endured the unthinkable. Their strength, resilience, and determination to transform such profound pain into something meaningful is truly inspiring. They have sought accountability, found ways to grow, and continue to honour the memory of those no longer with them.
This is a powerful and moving read. It left me heartbroken, but also deeply inspired, one of those books that will stay with me long after I’ve turned the final page

[Sheree Ashleigh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my gosh this book. I had to read it as soon as I got it and couldn't put it down! I've followed Stephanie's journey for some time through TikTok so I knew I had to break my ban of not buying new books. This was definitely a must read. What both Stephanie and Marie went through was absolutely horrible and that they came out the other side is absolutely inspiring. They're such strong women. Would I recommend this? Yes! Was it easy to read? No but it was definitely worth it

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I listened to this book and was absolutely captivated. I have followed Stephanie on socials since this happened and have always been inspired and heartbroken about what occurred. Thank you Stephanie and Marie for so beautifully sharing your story with us. A true reminder to cherish each day and to not give up.

[Faith · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are extraordinarily strong people walking among us - and Stephanie and her mom are two of those people

[Christina Strawbridge · Rating 5 out of 5]

A devastating yet inspiring story. How anyone survived White Island was so interesting to read - a beautiful and emotional book.

[Jaz 🌻 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I cannot bring myself to rate this anything other than 5/5 stars. My heart broke repeatedly throughout Steph and Marie’s story. I had to stop on many occasions and take a breath while listening to the devastating recount of this completely avoidable tragedy.
I remember clearly the White Island eruption back in 2019 because: a) I was a travel agent when it happened and cruises were something I booked for my clients on a daily basis, b) it happened in New Zealand which is obviously very close to home to me here in Queensland, Australia and c) RCCL has been my favourite cruise line to travel with thus far so hearing how they so spectacularly failed the Browitt’s (and all of the other passengers that day as well as in the months / years after) was so upsetting.

Steph & Marie, thank you for sharing your story. You are both so brave. Paul & Krystal would be so proud of you.

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Moments in this book hade me in absolute tears and others had be absolutely raging and other moments had me feeling every emotion in between.

This was one of those books you have to read in small bites because it hits so hard that you have to sit with it. Hearing from both Stephanie, a survivor and Marie, her mum who stayed on the ship / toured Tauranga was a great way to show both sides of not only that day but also how tragedies like this effect all those around them.

The story cover events leading up to that day, the day of and the survival journey every day since. Nothing was held back here, the good, the bad and the extremely ugly all feature and it makes you feel like you are right there on this journey.

Excuse the language but FUCK ROYAL CARIBBEAN!!!!! I never have gone on a cruise with them but now I never ever will. Their villainous attitudes towards the victims is absolutely disgusting and had me raging. The corporate creed was astonishing and worse than I ever imagined. Marie said she was scared the story would get buried if they settled. I hope she knows that through this book, that story isn’t getting buried and that people are listening. Some of us have heard her side.

Having recently finished Surviving White Island by Kelsey Waghorn (a tour guide from group 1 who survived that day), I found hearing from a tourist and survivor from group 2, as is the case with Stephanie, was a great way to get a well rounded view on the events of that day. If you can read both books, then each one will give you such a greater understanding.

As heartbreaking as this book is. It is also one of resilience in the face of the unsurvivable, the courage to keep going when you h e lost everything, and the power of unconditional love.

4.5 by rounding up.

[J · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story is heartwrenching, especially when you consider (from outside information) that most of the victims and their families didn't get any justice, either in settlements or court victories of the most guilty companies. (The most significant victories in courts were later overturned or dismissed.)

One recurring aspect really struck me: Marie's behaviours.

Marie Browitt's account is dominated by descriptions of herself in absolute hysterics—repeatedly overwhelmed, incapacitated, unable to function. My mind went to the rhetoric I hear on the news every day—the way certain political figures traffic in grievance and scapegoating, positioning their own people as victimized despite holding power, blaming outsiders for internal failures, all rooted in a sense of entitlement.

The cultures and religions that shaped Marie's upbringing have long positioned themselves as superior, as possessing answers to human suffering. Yet her repeated collapses expose a fundamental failure: her upbringing left her with no genuine resilience, no capacity to tolerate even minor distress. When unspeakable trauma arrived, she shattered completely. A culture that cannot prepare its own members to endure hardship, that leaves them psychologically defenseless when catastrophe strikes, has no claim to the moral or spiritual authority it has historically asserted.

I don't blame Marie herself for her breakdowns, I just wish her culture spent less time maintaining a bubble of privilege and more time connecting its children (which she once was) with the realities of the world.

(Nate Tricowi)

[Ashley · Rating 3 out of 5]

New Zealand is home to hundreds of volcanoes — more than 50 in the city I live in alone. Around a dozen are active.

In December 2019, Whakaari / White Island — a remote but popular tourist destination — erupted. There were 47 people on the island. 22 didn’t make it home.

Like most Kiwis, we watched it unfold in real time. We mourned — for locals and for the people who came here expecting a once-in-a-lifetime experience, not the end of their lives.

Stephanie Browitt was there with her sister Krystal and father Paul. Out of the Ashes is her account of the eruption and the aftermath.

This is not an easy read. The physical trauma is confronting, but it’s the psychological toll that sticks — grief, guilt, and the long process of rebuilding.

At times it leans into familiar “inspirational survivor” territory, but the reality of what she went through keeps it grounded.

A story of survival and loss, and a reminder of how quickly everything can change.

[Stacey Fabulous · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the most heartbreaking things i have ever read.

As a follower of Steph from very early in her social media recovery journey, I felt the emotions of her describing all the sad details of everything related to this horrific event. *including crying in multiple sections*

Listening to the audiobook and hearing the heartache in their voices took this story to a whole other level. A story of sorrow, grief, love, resilience, determination, and never giving up.

Thank you for sharing another side to this story with us.

[Brieana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! I couldn't NOT give this 5 stars!

I listened to the audiobook and it was such a devastating yet inspiring story to listen to. I was gripped from start to finish and sobbed so many times 😭😭😭

I've been following Stephanie on instagram since her recovery and she is such an inspiration. The horrific and emotional journey her and her Mum have been in in the last few years has been nothing short of devastating but they should be so proud of getting through everyday and being able to tell their story in this way.

Highly, highly recommend ❤️

[Nicky Dawson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This would be one of the best audio books I’ve ever listened to. The rawness and honesty of their story you could feel all the emotions. Man I cried so many tears listening to this. I am in awe of Steph and Marie, their resilience and their bravery for sharing such a deeply traumatic and moving story. Go read or listen to it - it is a powerful story of courage, a mother’s love and the kindness of people. I wish them all the best as they continue to build their lives.

[Morgan Kirchhoff · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've been following Stephanie on social media since the White Island eruption in 2019, and this was an automatic read for me. Both Marie and Stephanie have endured the unimaginable, and yet both exude strength and grace that most can only hope for. This memoir was incredibly raw and emotional, and I found myself tearing up nearly every other chapter. I cannot recommend this enough.

[Danielle · Rating 5 out of 5]

An incredible story of the resiliency and strength of the human mind and body, and an amazing tribute to Paul and Krystal. I teared up multiple times reading this story, and remain completely in awe of Stephanie and Marie. It is an eye opening read on how fragile life can be and how quickly our circumstances can change.

[Ama · Rating 5 out of 5]

I honestly don’t have the words for how devastating yet inspiring this was to read. After following Stephanie for years on social media, I already had so much respect for her, but reading this gave me an even deeper appreciation for her strength and determination.

I’ll write a longer review at some point, but for now, I think I just need to sit with it for a while.

[Denise · Rating 5 out of 5]

A remarkable and powerful story of the power of resilience, determination and love. I am so saddened that this had to happen to all these beautiful people and the victims who perished from the White Island eruption. I am deeply inspired and moved by the strength of Stephanie and her mother’s journey, an absolute must-read!!!

[Kimberley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was heartbreakingly beautiful.
Was so well written.
I cried so many times.

I have never been in a situation where I’ve been badly hurt so I can only imagine the pain, hurt, anger, heartbreak this family has gone through.

A mothers love. A daughter’s determination. And some kick ass lawyers.

[Delores · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such an amazing story of resilience. I couldn't put it down. I was heartbroken for this family but also so touched by the lovely people who entered their lives in large and small ways to support them - an inspirational story in so many ways.

[Colleen Elvey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is both is so inspirational, having both the story as Stephanie the victim and Maree her mother whom lost both her husband and daughter. There are a few chapters but its actually really well written and flows with ease.

[Nic · Rating 5 out of 5]

Keep the tissues handy for this raw and personal account of the experiences of both mother and daughter in the aftermath of the Whaakari White Island eruption. So many emotions and I shared their anger at the injustice of it all, and the lack of willingness of the cruise ship to be accountable.

[Sian Barry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautifully written story about such an unimaginable, heartbreaking experience. Thank you, Stephanie and Marie, for being so generous and brave in sharing your story. You are two incredibly strong, resilient women!

[Kerry RM · Rating 5 out of 5]

Could not put this book down. Raw honest funny sad. All the feels.

[Ash Cav · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this in one go. Such a harrowing story. Painful as a fellow ordinary Melbourian to read. We are with you every step of the way girl 💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼

[Hilary · Rating 4 out of 5]

Incredible book on survival and resilience.

[Alicia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Humbling