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Empty Earth: A Post-Apocalyptic Romance

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I wrote Empty Earth because I couldn't stop thinking about what we owe each other — and what we lose when we forget.

Eva and Adam are survivors making their way across an America that waited too long. From the frozen north to the scorching desert, they carry something the world tried to take from love, hope, and the shared belief that humanity is worth saving.

Near the end of their journey, Eva says something she believes with all her heart.

"Restoring our humanity, our love for one another, is the only way things will ever get better."

Not policy. Not technology. Not willpower. But love. Chosen, practiced, steadfast love.

I wrote Eva for my granddaughters, and for grandchildren everywhere. Eva's message comes from the depths of her soul
-- and from mine.

274 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 18, 2014

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Rick McManus

25 books6 followers

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5 stars
23 (42%)
4 stars
12 (22%)
3 stars
8 (14%)
2 stars
4 (7%)
1 star
7 (12%)
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
Profile Image for Carlos Perea.
212 reviews3 followers
December 17, 2025
Awesome Story

This is one of those novels that you simply cannot stop reading, because everything feels completely unpredictable. I really enjoy stories that talk about love in chaotic times, when everything feels difficult and the relationship becomes the anchor that keeps us connected to the present and to reality.

In this case, it is very interesting to see how love and the strong bond between the main characters make everything feel possible. I felt especially connected to the story because I consider myself a romantic person, and I enjoy seeing how love, when put into action, has the power to transform everything. This book is a clear example of that.

In addition, the story does not focus only on romance, but also includes action, mystery, and suspense, which makes it even more engaging. One of the things I appreciated the most is the way the book is organized. Its structure makes it easy to read and allows the reader to connect with the story very quickly.
Profile Image for Evelyn.
1,380 reviews34 followers
March 12, 2025
I absolutely enjoyed this book for three main reasons. First of all, the author puts so much effort into the cover that I didn't hesitate for a second to dive into its contents. Secondly, the writing style is not only evocative and entertaining but also thought-provoking. Finally, the story seems predictable but when all seems lost, new unexpected twists and turns emerge; these blew me away.
The story centers on two main characters; Eva and Adam are prisoners in an Arctic prison. The hostile climate, the coldness of their cells and the injustices they have experienced will not discourage them from fighting for their freedom.
The fact that the book emphasizes climate catastrophes seems to me to be a sublime advance. In this way every reader can become aware of how little we care for the planet.
Profile Image for S Tyty.
1,348 reviews32 followers
March 12, 2025
This book was so different and amazing. I absolutely adore Eva since it was so refreshing to see her inner strength that is so different from most other tales I have read which had a similar approach or theme.
I am convinced that this is one of the best books I have ever read due to many reasons. Firstly, its characters are way too well put together. They are entertaining and appealing. Secondly, the narrative style chosen by the author is something else. With clear vocabulary and language, the author conveyed a lot. Last but not least, the storyline has an ending I was not expecting. This made me love the story even more since I did not only enjoy the narrative all along, but I also enjoyed a proper ending.
Profile Image for Liz.
1,498 reviews40 followers
March 12, 2025
The world couldn't be more upside down, while in prison Eva discovers Adam, who is imprisoned in the neighboring British compound. The two share long talks and their love is exposed. But both will fight to get out of that prison so they can be together. As humanity moves ever closer to extinction, Eva must choose: surrender to a slow death in captivity or risk everything for a chance to live beyond the walls.
This fiction is undoubtedly extraordinary, I really liked the way author McManus wrote it, the characters are very well described and the plot has twists and turns that are great and take the reader by surprise. Also, in my opinion, love stories always make reading more enjoyable and pleasant.
89 reviews2 followers
February 20, 2025
Thanks to Goodreads and the author for sharing a copy of this e-book.
I thought the book was well written, a love story In a dystopian post-apocalyptic world. The characters of Eva and Adam were appropriate for a young couple starting out their relationship in a new, albeit life threatening world. Their idealistic expectations of love changed as the story progressed. Getting a glimpse of the US states along their journey, and how they changed following global warming, was alarming, and also eye-opening. However, the story left the reader with hope for survival of the human race and relationships.
Profile Image for Lucas .
77 reviews8 followers
December 23, 2025
A mesmerising novel

This is a mesmerising post-apocalyptic romance penned by Rick McManus. This fiction revolves around Eva and Adam’s true love that fights against everything and strives to survive anything. Their lives are in danger due to the possible end of the world but together they opt for living instead of dying.
I´d say that it’s a story painted in grey; while I was reading, I could picture the devastating and miserable places where the characters have been-. That’s thanks to the way the author describes in detail every single place. I liked his style and the themes that he touches, such as freedom, family, encounter, courage and faith-.. It’s highly recommended.
149 reviews5 followers
June 16, 2026
Very Nice

I stayed up till 4:00 in the morning to finish this book....and bow I will have to get more in the series! LOL This was a fine read...I recommend it to anyone... especially those that love reading about apocalyptic endings.
Profile Image for Mark.
12 reviews
December 27, 2025
I didn’t expect to feel this emotional reading a post-apocalyptic story. The love story was beautifully written and gave the empty world real meaning
11 reviews1 follower
December 27, 2025
The atmosphere in Empty Earth is haunting and beautiful at the same time. As readers, we felt deeply connected to the characters and their journey.
Toronto Arts and Culture Book Club
7 reviews
December 27, 2025
What we loved most was how human this story felt. The apocalypse is the backdrop, but the emotions are front and center.
Toronto Arts and Culture Book Club
9 reviews
January 6, 2026
As a reader with Toronto Arts And Culture Book Club, I found this book engaging from start to finish. The writing flows beautifully and keeps you invested in the story.
9 reviews1 follower
January 6, 2026
This was a thoughtful and enjoyable read. Toronto Arts And Culture Book Club readers appreciate books like this that spark conversation and linger in your mind.
7 reviews1 follower
January 6, 2026
I loved how immersive this book was. It’s the kind of story Toronto Arts And Culture Book Club members enjoy discussing long after finishing the last page.
Profile Image for Andrew .
6 reviews
January 6, 2026
A compelling read with strong moments throughout. Toronto Arts And Culture Book Club readers would definitely recommend this to anyone looking for a satisfying book.
9 reviews1 follower
January 6, 2026
This was an enjoyable read with an interesting story. The characters felt real, and the writing kept me engaged from beginning to end.
1 review
January 6, 2026
This book held my attention and delivered a meaningful reading experience. As part of Toronto Arts And Culture Book Club, I truly appreciated its depth
Profile Image for Rick McManus.
Author 25 books6 followers
Read
June 8, 2026
good
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for AJ.
60 reviews
July 7, 2026
If civilization falls, it’ll be each for themselves. She would have been raped numerous times. Unrealistic survival.
14 reviews1 follower
December 27, 2025
This book proves that even after everything is lost, love can still survive. I loved the balance between survival, loneliness, and romance.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews