I haven't even gotten deep into the pages yet, but the description stopped me cold. Most post-apocalyptic books lead with the threat, the collapse, the violence, the enemy. This one leads with something quieter and far more unsettling: the loss of hope. That reframe tells you everything about the kind of writer Sam Sisavath is. The cover matches that energy too, stark, no-nonsense, almost military in its simplicity. It doesn't try to sell you spectacle. It just stands there and dares you to open it. That confidence in the packaging, paired with a blurb that sets up two characters who couldn't be more different, a methodical loner prepper and a grad student who just survived something horrific and you already feel the tension before chapter one. Ash being "prepared for everything except an unexpected partner" is the kind of setup that promises real character work, not just survival mechanics. I'm here for it. First impressions: strong. Expectations: high.
As the book begins, the world situation is very akin to what it stands at now with enemies on all sides....with even "frenenies" hidden in plain sight. When an EMP renders the USA almost helpless in its aftermath, people quickly settle into two groups, predators and prey... and the games begin!.... Very immersive book that pulls you into both the characters and the action. Enjoyable and a.strong 4.75 stars! Quick read!
Ok it is but I have read quite a few dooms day books from zombies to EMP to aliens. This book is different as it focuses on a single person and his small group of survivors and it’s all about ash. I love the character and it’s well written and keeps your attention. No slow parts.
Not your usual ….. kinda dry. It is taking a while to make a plot. Since you’re starting from the ground up, I went ahead and finished it. Hopefully the next one will be better.
Good characters and storyline. Sisavath put together a really good story. Lots of action and thrills. Easy to get invested in these characters and their lives.