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When We Were Human
2015 Children's Moonbeam Awards Silver Medal winner for Young Adult Fantasy/Sci-Fi Fiction 2016 Readers' Favorite Gold Medal Winner for Young Adult Science Fiction
“They came four years ago. Invaded our planet, rounded us up, decimated the human race. We fought back, and some even say we won, but they’re wrong. The invaders took everything from us. Our family. Our hope. Our humanity. We won the war, but there are no humans left. Only monsters who will do anything to survive. Some look human and some don’t, but they are all the same.”Eighteen-year-old Eva has spent the last year punishing herself for her sister’s death and hiding from everyone she comes into contact with, human or otherwise. With the population destroyed and the Earth left in ruins, she sees little hope left for the future.But when she crosses paths with Walker and Tara something inside her awakens. Something she thought had died along with her entire family. In these new friends Eva sees a promise of what the future could be, as well as evidence that humanity might not be extinct after all.When a ghost from Eva’s past makes an unexpected appearance, the group sets out on a cross-country trek that will teach Eva how to love and hope again, and will remind her what it truly means to be human.
“They came four years ago. Invaded our planet, rounded us up, decimated the human race. We fought back, and some even say we won, but they’re wrong. The invaders took everything from us. Our family. Our hope. Our humanity. We won the war, but there are no humans left. Only monsters who will do anything to survive. Some look human and some don’t, but they are all the same.”Eighteen-year-old Eva has spent the last year punishing herself for her sister’s death and hiding from everyone she comes into contact with, human or otherwise. With the population destroyed and the Earth left in ruins, she sees little hope left for the future.But when she crosses paths with Walker and Tara something inside her awakens. Something she thought had died along with her entire family. In these new friends Eva sees a promise of what the future could be, as well as evidence that humanity might not be extinct after all.When a ghost from Eva’s past makes an unexpected appearance, the group sets out on a cross-country trek that will teach Eva how to love and hope again, and will remind her what it truly means to be human.
261 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 4, 2015
68 people are currently reading
444 people want to read
About the author
Kate L. Mary
89 books796 followersI'm a mom of four, Air Force wife, and author of adult and young adult dystopian, post-apocalyptic, and science fiction. I love intense world building and character driven stories that feature strong female leads - as well as a side of romance - and any end of the world scenario. Zombies, aliens, a distant future where people have no clue how the world ended in the first place, you name it, I will create a story there!
Having lived in a lot of different places after more than a decade as an Air Force wife, I love setting my books in cities I've actually lived in to give them authenticity. I've resided in: Indiana, Georgia, Mississippi, South Carolina, California, and Oklahoma but am currently back in my home state of Ohio where I live with my husband, four kids, two dogs, and three cats.
When I'm not writing, you can find me by my pool (in the summer), getting lost in some binge-worthy show or at a play with my husband, patronizing one of the great restaurants in my small town of Troy, Ohio with my family, or traveling. I want to see everything and make a point of visiting a new place every year!
Some of my favorite books are The Hunger Games, Pride and Prejudice, The Host, and The Stand. My favorite movies are Aliens, Jaws, Signs, Say Anything, Everything Everywhere All At Once, and The Greatest Showman.
Awards:
Outliers
Winner in the 2018 Kindle Books Awards for Sci-Fi/Fantasy Fiction
B.R.A.G.Medallion Honoree
Finalist in the 2018 Wishing Shelf Book Awards For Adult Fiction
Top 10 Finalist in the Author Academy Awards for Sci-Fi/Fantasy Fiction
Cover Finalist in the 2019 RONE Awards from InD'tale Magazine
When We Were Human
2015 Children's Moonbeam Awards Silver Medal winner for Young Adult Fantasy/Sci-Fi Fiction
2016 Readers' Favorite Gold Medal Winner for Young Adult Science Fiction
Tribe of Daughters
Winner in the 2020 RONE Awards for Time Travel/Science Fiction
Bronze Medal Winner in the 2019 Readers' Favorite Book Awards for Science Fiction
Honorable Mention in the 2018 SPR Book Awards
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KateLMaryauthor
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/kate-...
Website: http://KateLMary.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zombieautho...
Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/Kate-L.-Mary/e...
Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Kate-L.-Mary...
Newsletter: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor...
Having lived in a lot of different places after more than a decade as an Air Force wife, I love setting my books in cities I've actually lived in to give them authenticity. I've resided in: Indiana, Georgia, Mississippi, South Carolina, California, and Oklahoma but am currently back in my home state of Ohio where I live with my husband, four kids, two dogs, and three cats.
When I'm not writing, you can find me by my pool (in the summer), getting lost in some binge-worthy show or at a play with my husband, patronizing one of the great restaurants in my small town of Troy, Ohio with my family, or traveling. I want to see everything and make a point of visiting a new place every year!
Some of my favorite books are The Hunger Games, Pride and Prejudice, The Host, and The Stand. My favorite movies are Aliens, Jaws, Signs, Say Anything, Everything Everywhere All At Once, and The Greatest Showman.
Awards:
Outliers
Winner in the 2018 Kindle Books Awards for Sci-Fi/Fantasy Fiction
B.R.A.G.Medallion Honoree
Finalist in the 2018 Wishing Shelf Book Awards For Adult Fiction
Top 10 Finalist in the Author Academy Awards for Sci-Fi/Fantasy Fiction
Cover Finalist in the 2019 RONE Awards from InD'tale Magazine
When We Were Human
2015 Children's Moonbeam Awards Silver Medal winner for Young Adult Fantasy/Sci-Fi Fiction
2016 Readers' Favorite Gold Medal Winner for Young Adult Science Fiction
Tribe of Daughters
Winner in the 2020 RONE Awards for Time Travel/Science Fiction
Bronze Medal Winner in the 2019 Readers' Favorite Book Awards for Science Fiction
Honorable Mention in the 2018 SPR Book Awards
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KateLMaryauthor
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/kate-...
Website: http://KateLMary.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zombieautho...
Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/Kate-L.-Mary/e...
Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Kate-L.-Mary...
Newsletter: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
July 14, 2015
Very different and enjoyed the uniqueness.
Full review to come!
Full review to come!
Read
August 14, 2019This review and many more can be found on my blog: Feed Your Fiction Addiction
Okay, I’m having a hard time reviewing this book because it’s SO hard not to compare it to Mary’s Broken World series (which I ADORE!). In some ways, this feels like a YA version of those books – though the characters are 18, and it’s hard to tell, but it might veer into NA territory in future books – not quite sure. The apocalyptic setting is similar (in this case it’s aliens who’ve taken over instead of zombies), but it’s told from a more YA point of view (especially where the romance is concerned) and, to be honest, I’m not sure how I feel about the result. I enjoyed the book, but I didn’t absolutely love it the way I have Mary’s other books.
What I LOVED:
Eva’s demons.
The best thing about this book is how Eva copes with the end of the world and with the loss of her sister. Eva has spent months surviving only because she promised her sister she would. But she is wracked with guilt over what happened and she resorts to cutting herself to relieve the pressure and the pain of that loss – she punishes herself in the only way she feels she can. Eva also goes after the remaining aliens in an almost animal way – her rage takes over in these moments and she becomes someone that even she doesn’t recognize. I loved Eva’s emotional journey through the book!
The aliens.
I did love the alien invaders (well, you know, I loved how horrible they were). The strange slimy gray beings that are left on the earth after the invasion are creepy, spooky enigmas. And it was interesting to get the perspective of after the invasion, rather than during it (though I have to say I’d almost like to see a prequel where we get the full story of what the invasion was like because that would be an incredibly exciting story). We learn some important things about the aliens as the book goes on, and I’m really interested to see where Mary goes with this in future books.
The approach to sex.
It was refreshing to see characters talk about sex – and the possibility of having it – without actually jumping into it the first chance they get. The banter related to this was fun and felt real – the way real eighteen-year-old virgins might talk to each other in the circumstances (including being a bit awkward but defusing the situation with humor).
Diversity.
I love that Mary always adds diversity to her books. Tara is black – it’s not a huge part of the story or anything, but just something that’s mentioned when she’s described. Such a small, easy detail to add but I love that she puts forth the effort (her Broken World series is even more diverse!).
The negatives:
Not much actually happened.
I kind of spent the book waiting for something huge to happen, considering the apocalyptic setting, but I felt like I mostly just waited. Not to say that nothing happened – there were some exciting scenes involving the aliens toward the end of the book – but I just felt like too much of the book was spent traveling around and not really doing much. I will say that there was enough going on with Eva emotionally to keep the book from feeling too slow, though.
The romance.
While I wasn’t opposed to the romance, I didn’t feel a huge connection there. I did like that nothing was rushed, but I hope that things build a bit more between these two in the next book.
So, I was torn on what to rate this book. I finally settled on three stars because, while I enjoyed it, it had some flaws that kept me from truly loving it. I will definitely continue with the series, though (I assume there will be more), and I think this might be a great way for YA readers to get a taste of Mary’s unique apocalyptic writing! I give this book 3/5 stars.
***Disclosure: This book was provided to me by the author in exchange for an honest review. No other compensation was given and all opinions are my own.***
Okay, I’m having a hard time reviewing this book because it’s SO hard not to compare it to Mary’s Broken World series (which I ADORE!). In some ways, this feels like a YA version of those books – though the characters are 18, and it’s hard to tell, but it might veer into NA territory in future books – not quite sure. The apocalyptic setting is similar (in this case it’s aliens who’ve taken over instead of zombies), but it’s told from a more YA point of view (especially where the romance is concerned) and, to be honest, I’m not sure how I feel about the result. I enjoyed the book, but I didn’t absolutely love it the way I have Mary’s other books.
What I LOVED:
Eva’s demons.
The best thing about this book is how Eva copes with the end of the world and with the loss of her sister. Eva has spent months surviving only because she promised her sister she would. But she is wracked with guilt over what happened and she resorts to cutting herself to relieve the pressure and the pain of that loss – she punishes herself in the only way she feels she can. Eva also goes after the remaining aliens in an almost animal way – her rage takes over in these moments and she becomes someone that even she doesn’t recognize. I loved Eva’s emotional journey through the book!
The aliens.
I did love the alien invaders (well, you know, I loved how horrible they were). The strange slimy gray beings that are left on the earth after the invasion are creepy, spooky enigmas. And it was interesting to get the perspective of after the invasion, rather than during it (though I have to say I’d almost like to see a prequel where we get the full story of what the invasion was like because that would be an incredibly exciting story). We learn some important things about the aliens as the book goes on, and I’m really interested to see where Mary goes with this in future books.
The approach to sex.
It was refreshing to see characters talk about sex – and the possibility of having it – without actually jumping into it the first chance they get. The banter related to this was fun and felt real – the way real eighteen-year-old virgins might talk to each other in the circumstances (including being a bit awkward but defusing the situation with humor).
Diversity.
I love that Mary always adds diversity to her books. Tara is black – it’s not a huge part of the story or anything, but just something that’s mentioned when she’s described. Such a small, easy detail to add but I love that she puts forth the effort (her Broken World series is even more diverse!).
The negatives:
Not much actually happened.
I kind of spent the book waiting for something huge to happen, considering the apocalyptic setting, but I felt like I mostly just waited. Not to say that nothing happened – there were some exciting scenes involving the aliens toward the end of the book – but I just felt like too much of the book was spent traveling around and not really doing much. I will say that there was enough going on with Eva emotionally to keep the book from feeling too slow, though.
The romance.
While I wasn’t opposed to the romance, I didn’t feel a huge connection there. I did like that nothing was rushed, but I hope that things build a bit more between these two in the next book.
So, I was torn on what to rate this book. I finally settled on three stars because, while I enjoyed it, it had some flaws that kept me from truly loving it. I will definitely continue with the series, though (I assume there will be more), and I think this might be a great way for YA readers to get a taste of Mary’s unique apocalyptic writing! I give this book 3/5 stars.
***Disclosure: This book was provided to me by the author in exchange for an honest review. No other compensation was given and all opinions are my own.***
July 14, 2016
It is no surprise that Kate L. Mary's novel, When We Were Human, was awarded the Silver Medal for YA Fantasy/Sci-Fi Fiction from the 2015 Moonbeam Children's Book Awards. This novel is everything a science fiction story should be. Not only has Mary created an incredible dystopian world, but she has given readers characters they can relate to and fall in love with!
The moment I began reading this story, I was hooked. Mary has a talent for writing and keeping her readers entertained from the very first page. When We Were Human is a fantastic story of survival and the importance of remaining hopeful and not giving up on love. Kate L. Mary introduces her heroine in a vulnerable way and shows her readers that even the strong fall down and need to be picked back up. As the story progresses, we get to watch our heroine grow and learn to trust again. The world created in When We Were Human is everything a fan of dystopian and science fiction genres looks for when trying to find that novel.
This is a great read for Young Adults and is the go to book when trying to get your friend into science fiction. It is a well written and fast read that is perfect for a rainy day. My only regret is that I did not read this novel sooner! Watch out for Kate L. Mary, she has a bright future ahead of her!
http://novelideareviews.blogspot.com/...
The moment I began reading this story, I was hooked. Mary has a talent for writing and keeping her readers entertained from the very first page. When We Were Human is a fantastic story of survival and the importance of remaining hopeful and not giving up on love. Kate L. Mary introduces her heroine in a vulnerable way and shows her readers that even the strong fall down and need to be picked back up. As the story progresses, we get to watch our heroine grow and learn to trust again. The world created in When We Were Human is everything a fan of dystopian and science fiction genres looks for when trying to find that novel.
This is a great read for Young Adults and is the go to book when trying to get your friend into science fiction. It is a well written and fast read that is perfect for a rainy day. My only regret is that I did not read this novel sooner! Watch out for Kate L. Mary, she has a bright future ahead of her!
http://novelideareviews.blogspot.com/...
March 9, 2016
It took me a while to get into this, and there were a few times where I felt quite bored, but it was an okay read overall.
September 12, 2017
Bought this book at a signing for my 12 year old daughter that doesn't normally like to read, no matter how much I push it on her. This one did it! She raved about this book, talking about it constantly the entire time she read it. It was amazing to see her so excited about a novel, and since her copy is signed by the author, she treasures it even more. In her words, "it's like a movie." When I asked her what she'd do when she finished, her reply was, "probably die. Does she have any more?"
I've gone ahead and ordered a paperback of Kate L Mary's Alone: A Zombie Novel. Kate has a new fan :) Thank you for making my daughter fall in love with fiction! Now it's my turn to read it!
I've gone ahead and ordered a paperback of Kate L Mary's Alone: A Zombie Novel. Kate has a new fan :) Thank you for making my daughter fall in love with fiction! Now it's my turn to read it!
September 28, 2019
This was a great read....giving the reader a view of the world after an invasion of aliens from another planet. We are seeing this all play out through the eyes of a young woman whose parents are killed and her only sibling, younger sister Lilly, is taken by the aliens. I loved the eye opening journey Eva goes through not only to find her sister, but to survive. You see, she must watch out for the "creepers", as well as the other humans out their that mean her harm. I was finding myself wondering what I would do if I was in her situation. I found this book very exciting and had a hard time putting it down. I'm really loving Kate L. Mary's writing, she has quite a vivid imagination. This book played on all my emotions as I took in every word. I recommend this book to everyone with a thirst for a new genre!
August 20, 2020
When we were Human follows the story of a girl searching for her sister after aliens have attacked, seemed in control, but then left for some unknown reason. Very interesting perspective on cutting to lessen the mental pain
October 8, 2022
I must confess, this is the second book from Kate L Mary that I’ve read and I’m officially HOOKED! I adore her writing style and story telling, and I now need to read more of her work.
This book has a nice mix of emotions, drama, violence, romance and hope that you would expect from a post apocalyptic story and doesn’t linger on anything for too long. It moves at a great pace and keeps you on your toes.
Our main character Eva, she’s tough, strong and even though she has her mental scars, she knows how to fight for survival in this new world since the invasion. Of course she has her flaws but who wouldn’t when they though all was lost. The revenge that she feels she needs to invoke on any invader that comes her way was a little gory but I think most people would feel the need for some type of revenge in this situation. This made me love this character as she felt very real to me and as the story progressed you could see her develop into a better person for the journey she takes and the people she meets.
The secondary characters in Walker, Tara and Lilly are fabulous as well and they help to keep Eva on her toes and remind her that she’s not alone in this world even though that’s all she’s known for a year now. There is a level of maturity and mix of personalities in this group that there will be someone there that you would be able to relate to in some way.
I was captivated by this story from the word go, and I had trouble putting this book down to sleep. If you enjoy post apocalyptic stories they I think you would love this.
I received a copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review
For more bookish fun come over to Sharon's Book Nook!
This book has a nice mix of emotions, drama, violence, romance and hope that you would expect from a post apocalyptic story and doesn’t linger on anything for too long. It moves at a great pace and keeps you on your toes.
Our main character Eva, she’s tough, strong and even though she has her mental scars, she knows how to fight for survival in this new world since the invasion. Of course she has her flaws but who wouldn’t when they though all was lost. The revenge that she feels she needs to invoke on any invader that comes her way was a little gory but I think most people would feel the need for some type of revenge in this situation. This made me love this character as she felt very real to me and as the story progressed you could see her develop into a better person for the journey she takes and the people she meets.
The secondary characters in Walker, Tara and Lilly are fabulous as well and they help to keep Eva on her toes and remind her that she’s not alone in this world even though that’s all she’s known for a year now. There is a level of maturity and mix of personalities in this group that there will be someone there that you would be able to relate to in some way.
I was captivated by this story from the word go, and I had trouble putting this book down to sleep. If you enjoy post apocalyptic stories they I think you would love this.
I received a copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review
For more bookish fun come over to Sharon's Book Nook!
August 15, 2015
**I received a complimentary ecopy of this book in exchange for a honest review**
So let's talk about aliens. I LOVE them. Okay, my husband might say I have a secret obsession with them. Ancient Aliens is pretty much permanently on my TV when he isn't around (the show freaks him out). I don't, however, read too many fiction books about them. I'm a romance junkie, and the idea of a human fornicating with an alien species kind of skives me out. Why I haven't seen an alternative like WHEN WE WERE HUMAN before is anybody's guess. But I loved it!
I got my alien fix, I got my romance fix. The two didn't touch, but they kind of did. Kate wove the two together seamlessly, making each was a vital part of the plot. Too cool.
You will immediately be sympathetic to Eva. Kate tackled some real issues with her character. She finds herself turning into a monster; the only way she knows how to handle the transition is to self-destruct. In comes Walker and baby sister Lilly to save her from herself. Two totally different kinds of love, both crucial to the survival of Eva's humanity.
I didn't care for the ending so much, though. It just kind of ended. No huge climactic event...just, hey, we're all happy now. Which is cool if there's a second book. Maybe there's more to come?
So let's talk about aliens. I LOVE them. Okay, my husband might say I have a secret obsession with them. Ancient Aliens is pretty much permanently on my TV when he isn't around (the show freaks him out). I don't, however, read too many fiction books about them. I'm a romance junkie, and the idea of a human fornicating with an alien species kind of skives me out. Why I haven't seen an alternative like WHEN WE WERE HUMAN before is anybody's guess. But I loved it!
I got my alien fix, I got my romance fix. The two didn't touch, but they kind of did. Kate wove the two together seamlessly, making each was a vital part of the plot. Too cool.
You will immediately be sympathetic to Eva. Kate tackled some real issues with her character. She finds herself turning into a monster; the only way she knows how to handle the transition is to self-destruct. In comes Walker and baby sister Lilly to save her from herself. Two totally different kinds of love, both crucial to the survival of Eva's humanity.
I didn't care for the ending so much, though. It just kind of ended. No huge climactic event...just, hey, we're all happy now. Which is cool if there's a second book. Maybe there's more to come?
July 8, 2019
I'm a little conflicted over this book. I did quite enjoy it. The thing I loved was the fact that this book takes place after the invasion has happened and aliens get left behind. I liked seeing how the world was through Eva's eyes and how she has survived. Eva definitely has demons and the struggle that she faces was so well written. She is a very hardened character I liked how much she's changed after meeting Walker and Tara. They are good people and they truly cared about Eva.
There is a romance that forms between Eva and Walker, but I just didn't feel the connection. I'm not really sure what Eva liked so much about Walker and through most of the book she's spends her time being jealous of every female he interacts with. Its clear that they both like each other, I just didn't see what drew them to one another. I will say I liked how they approached the topic of sex and had a mature talk about it.
The only reason I didn't give this book a higher rating is because I couldn't really track where the story was heading. It is a post-apocalyptic story, but its mostly about Eva trying to find her sister with the help of Walker and Tara. We do get some parts with the actual aliens and how they have changed after the invasion. I don't really know how to describe this book. It was an ok read and I really like this authors writing.
There is a romance that forms between Eva and Walker, but I just didn't feel the connection. I'm not really sure what Eva liked so much about Walker and through most of the book she's spends her time being jealous of every female he interacts with. Its clear that they both like each other, I just didn't see what drew them to one another. I will say I liked how they approached the topic of sex and had a mature talk about it.
The only reason I didn't give this book a higher rating is because I couldn't really track where the story was heading. It is a post-apocalyptic story, but its mostly about Eva trying to find her sister with the help of Walker and Tara. We do get some parts with the actual aliens and how they have changed after the invasion. I don't really know how to describe this book. It was an ok read and I really like this authors writing.
July 15, 2015
4.5
Eva has spent the last year alone on the road after the death of her last family. Coming across people is nothing new, but when she comes across two people who seem to still have the one thing she has lost, hope. Now she has to decide if going with them is worth the possibility of losing them. When her decision is made everything changes for her. Will it all be for the better? Or will it all come crashing down around her, just when she begins to find hope again?
Eva is strong she has been through so much and because everything happened to her at such a young age she hasn't learned how to cope properly. But she has survived and that's huge. Some she meets along the way might not understand her but they have helped her sometimes without even realizing it.
Throughout the story we see her grow so much and I enjoyed watching her journey as she learns how to accept not only herself but the world she now lives in. And also as she finds the beauty, happiness, and hope she thought was lost long ago.
The story is interesting and draws you in right from the beginning. I enjoyed feeling like you are right there with the characters in their world. Couldn't put it down!
Eva has spent the last year alone on the road after the death of her last family. Coming across people is nothing new, but when she comes across two people who seem to still have the one thing she has lost, hope. Now she has to decide if going with them is worth the possibility of losing them. When her decision is made everything changes for her. Will it all be for the better? Or will it all come crashing down around her, just when she begins to find hope again?
Eva is strong she has been through so much and because everything happened to her at such a young age she hasn't learned how to cope properly. But she has survived and that's huge. Some she meets along the way might not understand her but they have helped her sometimes without even realizing it.
Throughout the story we see her grow so much and I enjoyed watching her journey as she learns how to accept not only herself but the world she now lives in. And also as she finds the beauty, happiness, and hope she thought was lost long ago.
The story is interesting and draws you in right from the beginning. I enjoyed feeling like you are right there with the characters in their world. Couldn't put it down!
August 22, 2015
3.5 stars I received a copy from the author for an honest review.
I loved the cover, it made me curious about the book.
Eva lost her sister last year, she had been on her own since that time and she’s not coping well. One day she meets Walker and Tara and at first reluctant Eva becomes friends with them.
Walker is good at reading people he only has to look at Eva to know what she feels in her soul. Tara is a nice girl after four years she’s is still looking for her family. Walker is very sensitive to feelings from others but also from himself.
What I liked: the writing just pulled me in, the characters felt like real people.
The world building: I loved the concept of an alien invasion- let’s kill all the people -Apocalypse.
My favorite scenes from the story was the “sex talk” and when Eva lost herself.
The love building was good: no instant love.
The pace was slow but pleasant, but nothing big happened I kept waiting for the big revelation or drama to happen but it didn’t and it was missing, this story needed some more action.
Overall a very well written story that I enjoyed I can’t wait to read the sequel.
I loved the cover, it made me curious about the book.
Eva lost her sister last year, she had been on her own since that time and she’s not coping well. One day she meets Walker and Tara and at first reluctant Eva becomes friends with them.
Walker is good at reading people he only has to look at Eva to know what she feels in her soul. Tara is a nice girl after four years she’s is still looking for her family. Walker is very sensitive to feelings from others but also from himself.
What I liked: the writing just pulled me in, the characters felt like real people.
The world building: I loved the concept of an alien invasion- let’s kill all the people -Apocalypse.
My favorite scenes from the story was the “sex talk” and when Eva lost herself.
The love building was good: no instant love.
The pace was slow but pleasant, but nothing big happened I kept waiting for the big revelation or drama to happen but it didn’t and it was missing, this story needed some more action.
Overall a very well written story that I enjoyed I can’t wait to read the sequel.
October 30, 2015
I throughly enjoyed this book! Characters seemed realistic with their share of faults and flaws. The main character's struggle with self injury/cutting added another touch of realism to the story, as she found a way for her to cope with the loss of her sister.
At no point in this book was it boring or uninteresting, the author keeps you on the edge of your seat and interested in the characters throughout the entire book. If you like post apocalyptic/dystopian fiction then you should read this book .
At no point in this book was it boring or uninteresting, the author keeps you on the edge of your seat and interested in the characters throughout the entire book. If you like post apocalyptic/dystopian fiction then you should read this book .
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 23, 2015
Loved it. Read it in one day. Couldn't put it down. Once again Kate L. Mary has pulled it out of the bag. Amazing!!!
January 23, 2017
When we were human
I am so glad l found this author, l am completely devoted to her books , she takes zombie books to a new level, the way this one ended not sure there will be another, which is a shame. But as long as she keeps writing l will keep reading.
I am so glad l found this author, l am completely devoted to her books , she takes zombie books to a new level, the way this one ended not sure there will be another, which is a shame. But as long as she keeps writing l will keep reading.
September 6, 2019
Let me start off by saying that I loved the cover! Very cool!
If the humans were the ones to win the battle against the aliens, why did it seem like there weren’t that many humans around? Was the military gone? Or was this a question that will get answered in book 2? Overall, I really liked this story. It was fast-paced and really pulled me in. I can’t wait to get to book 2.
Moving on…
While I think the narrator did a great job, there were some issues. There was static in the background. This seemed to change throughout the book, whether it was static only when she spoke (it cut out/off when there was a pause), continuous static (middle), or no static (toward the end). Other than the static issue, she provided a good variety of voices per character, and I’d definitely listen to her again.
Questions/Comments:
I found it hard to believe that Eva had never had an infection from her cuts before she met Walker, given she gave herself a new cut every day and it was being done on dirty skin. The fact that she continued to cut herself after almost dying? I probably would have just left her behind.
Another questionable aspect involved the fire ants. I’ve been bitten by fire ants many, many times. It’s not fun. Besides the initial pitch, the spot remains itchy (like crazy) for several days. So, after Walker and Eva get bitten many, many times, it’s like it wasn’t that big of a deal. There was no reference to any itchiness or soreness, pimple-like bites. I just found that strange. Why have the characters experience something like that if they’re not going to suffer the repercussions? Or blisters! They never got any blisters with all the walking they did, walking through water and mud.
I was also wondering about the fact Lilly had been able to survive all by herself for almost a year at eleven/twelve years old. I’m sure there are probably tons of kids that would be able to survive with no issues, specifically those that go camping a lot prior to the end of the world, but that wasn’t the case with Lilly… I kept waiting for the author to say that Lilly ended up having some power after that last “visit” with the aliens, but that never came.
I’m not sure how I felt about Eva. There were many times when I felt she was self-absorbed and only thinking of herself, at least that was the way the author wrote her for that scene. For example, there was the part when her, Walker, and the Asperger’s kid (forgot his name) came across Donny and his gang. As they were running away (hiding in the weeds), there was a female scream that could be heard. Once they were in a safe location, Eva noticed that Walker was upset and assumed he was worried about her (worrying about Donny getting ahold of her again). Hearing he was upset, I automatically thought back to the screaming female. But nothing more was said about her.
Walker lifted Eva into the tree in her backyard. Eva was able to grab a branch and pull herself up. Yet, when it was time to climb down, I was under the impression (based on the way it was written) that she was much higher in the tree. Hence, she wanted Walker to catch her. Technically, she should have been able to climb back to the original branch she’d first grabbed and just lower herself down, with being a few feet off the ground.
The group goes to Dixie’s house looking for Lilly. I know Eva didn’t want to make them known to anyone around when they first arrived, that was why she didn’t just call out. But still. Why wouldn’t she have done that once she was inside the house? Why wouldn’t she have done that when she was chasing her sister?
Donny ended up grabbing a handful of Eva’s hair when he and his gang made it into the flooded house. Yet, her hair had previously been described as being only an inch long…
The “battle” scene in the flooded house took place in a room that didn’t sound very big at all. Yet, none of the aliens managed to get to Eva who, at one point, seemed to be hanging around the window. Although injuring one alien (her stabbing the one) might have caused the other aliens to feel its pain (or so she ended up believing), were Donny and his gang not fighting back? Didn’t he have a gun? Did he not hit any of them? The only alien pain that could be heard was the screaming from the alien Eva was stabbing.
I received the free audiobook version in exchange for an honest review.
If the humans were the ones to win the battle against the aliens, why did it seem like there weren’t that many humans around? Was the military gone? Or was this a question that will get answered in book 2? Overall, I really liked this story. It was fast-paced and really pulled me in. I can’t wait to get to book 2.
Moving on…
While I think the narrator did a great job, there were some issues. There was static in the background. This seemed to change throughout the book, whether it was static only when she spoke (it cut out/off when there was a pause), continuous static (middle), or no static (toward the end). Other than the static issue, she provided a good variety of voices per character, and I’d definitely listen to her again.
Questions/Comments:
I found it hard to believe that Eva had never had an infection from her cuts before she met Walker, given she gave herself a new cut every day and it was being done on dirty skin. The fact that she continued to cut herself after almost dying? I probably would have just left her behind.
Another questionable aspect involved the fire ants. I’ve been bitten by fire ants many, many times. It’s not fun. Besides the initial pitch, the spot remains itchy (like crazy) for several days. So, after Walker and Eva get bitten many, many times, it’s like it wasn’t that big of a deal. There was no reference to any itchiness or soreness, pimple-like bites. I just found that strange. Why have the characters experience something like that if they’re not going to suffer the repercussions? Or blisters! They never got any blisters with all the walking they did, walking through water and mud.
I was also wondering about the fact Lilly had been able to survive all by herself for almost a year at eleven/twelve years old. I’m sure there are probably tons of kids that would be able to survive with no issues, specifically those that go camping a lot prior to the end of the world, but that wasn’t the case with Lilly… I kept waiting for the author to say that Lilly ended up having some power after that last “visit” with the aliens, but that never came.
I’m not sure how I felt about Eva. There were many times when I felt she was self-absorbed and only thinking of herself, at least that was the way the author wrote her for that scene. For example, there was the part when her, Walker, and the Asperger’s kid (forgot his name) came across Donny and his gang. As they were running away (hiding in the weeds), there was a female scream that could be heard. Once they were in a safe location, Eva noticed that Walker was upset and assumed he was worried about her (worrying about Donny getting ahold of her again). Hearing he was upset, I automatically thought back to the screaming female. But nothing more was said about her.
Walker lifted Eva into the tree in her backyard. Eva was able to grab a branch and pull herself up. Yet, when it was time to climb down, I was under the impression (based on the way it was written) that she was much higher in the tree. Hence, she wanted Walker to catch her. Technically, she should have been able to climb back to the original branch she’d first grabbed and just lower herself down, with being a few feet off the ground.
The group goes to Dixie’s house looking for Lilly. I know Eva didn’t want to make them known to anyone around when they first arrived, that was why she didn’t just call out. But still. Why wouldn’t she have done that once she was inside the house? Why wouldn’t she have done that when she was chasing her sister?
Donny ended up grabbing a handful of Eva’s hair when he and his gang made it into the flooded house. Yet, her hair had previously been described as being only an inch long…
The “battle” scene in the flooded house took place in a room that didn’t sound very big at all. Yet, none of the aliens managed to get to Eva who, at one point, seemed to be hanging around the window. Although injuring one alien (her stabbing the one) might have caused the other aliens to feel its pain (or so she ended up believing), were Donny and his gang not fighting back? Didn’t he have a gun? Did he not hit any of them? The only alien pain that could be heard was the screaming from the alien Eva was stabbing.
I received the free audiobook version in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 31, 2019
I found this to be an interesting story and flowed well, most of the time. It's set in a post Apocalypse America / possibly the world. Aliens (invaders, creepers) have invaded earth and decimated our normal way of life, destroying city after city and taking selected humans to be experimented on. At some point the earth had defeated these invaders, causing them to flee and no one knows why, or how.
Eva, warrior princess (not really, just a pet name from another character) is found by two survivors (Walker and Tara), flaying one of these alien invaders that had been left behind. Fearfully, Walker and Tara adopt Eva into their tiny band to help her search for her little sister (Lily).
The journey proves to be a difficult one, no one can trust anybody very liberally, which would be totally understandable, given the set of circumstances... because humans can deteriorate into savage beasts and invaders have been noted as starting to change their behavior, causing them to become unpredictable.
This story unfortunately missed some brilliant twists, which could have easily made their way through the journey. Also, there were times when it seemed unrealistic, like one time when the tiny group (which expanded), just happened to escape from a terrifying situation where invaders came in en-mass and savaged the bad humans, yet our team managed to not be overwhelmed also. Another thing that bothered me was the fact that our team didn't use equipment, which would have been freely available to them and would have helped tremendously, such as bicycles, possible even horses. In fact there was not a lot of foreground explanations weaved throughout.
I listened to the audiobook version of this story, which is such a wonderful medium to 'read', and the narrator was great to listen to, although there were a few inconsistencies, such as a characters voice being read as a narrator (Walker, to be precise), rather than the character and sometimes the volume fluctuated. I'm guessing at post production the files were not compressed sufficiently to keep it even. Other than that, the narrator gave a brilliant interpretation of it all. Well done :).
All up, I recommend the story to young adult from all walks of life. It'll make you wonder how human YOU would remain in this broken down world.
Eva, warrior princess (not really, just a pet name from another character) is found by two survivors (Walker and Tara), flaying one of these alien invaders that had been left behind. Fearfully, Walker and Tara adopt Eva into their tiny band to help her search for her little sister (Lily).
The journey proves to be a difficult one, no one can trust anybody very liberally, which would be totally understandable, given the set of circumstances... because humans can deteriorate into savage beasts and invaders have been noted as starting to change their behavior, causing them to become unpredictable.
This story unfortunately missed some brilliant twists, which could have easily made their way through the journey. Also, there were times when it seemed unrealistic, like one time when the tiny group (which expanded), just happened to escape from a terrifying situation where invaders came in en-mass and savaged the bad humans, yet our team managed to not be overwhelmed also. Another thing that bothered me was the fact that our team didn't use equipment, which would have been freely available to them and would have helped tremendously, such as bicycles, possible even horses. In fact there was not a lot of foreground explanations weaved throughout.
I listened to the audiobook version of this story, which is such a wonderful medium to 'read', and the narrator was great to listen to, although there were a few inconsistencies, such as a characters voice being read as a narrator (Walker, to be precise), rather than the character and sometimes the volume fluctuated. I'm guessing at post production the files were not compressed sufficiently to keep it even. Other than that, the narrator gave a brilliant interpretation of it all. Well done :).
All up, I recommend the story to young adult from all walks of life. It'll make you wonder how human YOU would remain in this broken down world.
July 15, 2024
3.5 Stars. I have read other Kate L. Mary books (Tribe of Daughters, Broken World) and they are really good so I was excited to finally read this one. While the idea and the overall story are good and I liked it, the sum of the parts do not equal the whole. Basically, aliens from who knows where attack Earth for who knows why and they are eventually, somehow, defeated by who knows who. This is where the book starts. First, what I liked about the book: the main characters, Eva and Walker (is that a first name or a last name? I never found out) are well drawn and likable as are the supporting characters. Eva has been on her own for a year and, believing her sister Lily, is dead, is not coping well as evidenced by her cutting. Walker is sensitive and caring, and, after finding out Lily may be alive, tries to help Eva find her sister. The writing is well done: good people, bad aliens, disgusting SOB humans, a little drama, a little humor, a little romance, tense at times, terrifying at others. What I was disappointed in was: the alien description was a little sketchy and did not give me a clear picture of who or what they are. Where is the government? Who’s in charge if the aliens were defeated? And who defeated them? The military? If so, where are they? And if the aliens were defeated, why are they still running around? How many humans are left alive? Is it like in The Stand, where 99.4% are dead? If not, where are they? How come nobody checks to see if any vehicles are running? I personally know that a car can start up again after not being turned on for four years. How come all they have is a knife (a hunting knife? a carving knife? a paring knife?) and not a gun? Didn’t anyone think to look for any? (Lord knows there are guns EVERYWHERE) I know these may seem like minor issues, but they help to make a story fuller and better, four or possibly five stars. Overall, as I stated previously, the book was good, I recommend it and I hope there is a sequel to answer these questions.
January 4, 2025
When We Were Human hooked me when I read the first page. It held my attention throughout the story without a dull moment as the pages raced. The characters all seemed so real as if they were people you may know or have heard of. The whole story seemed real as real as it could be if aliens/creepers were real and came to invade us. I did feel as if I was there watching it all take place.
When We Were Human is a lot like The Walking Dead and The World of the Wars. It has many similarities. The characters and their lives remind you of something or someone straight out of the world of The Walking Dead but then the aliens and the war with the aliens remind you of The World of the Wars.
I sorely loved and enjoyed reading When We Were Human. I loved the world-building and would seriously love to read more stories set in this world. I would like to know more about the war with the aliens and their first contact with humans. I would also like to know what happens next for all the characters.
When We Were Human is a story about a young girl as she copes with all the loss she has had to endure since the creepers invaded. After she lost her little sister Eva kept to herself hiding from anyone she would see on the road. Eva would kill/skin any creeper she came upon if possible. Killing the creepers was one of the ways she dealt with the loss of her little sister, Lily.
One day she meets Walker and Tara who help her deal with everything as they have suffered the same things as Eva with losing their families. Being together I believe helps all three of them to heal just a little bit more each day.
I highly recommend When We Were Human to all fans of aliens and dystopian stories with a little bit of romance. Grab a copy of When We Were Human today!
When We Were Human is a lot like The Walking Dead and The World of the Wars. It has many similarities. The characters and their lives remind you of something or someone straight out of the world of The Walking Dead but then the aliens and the war with the aliens remind you of The World of the Wars.
I sorely loved and enjoyed reading When We Were Human. I loved the world-building and would seriously love to read more stories set in this world. I would like to know more about the war with the aliens and their first contact with humans. I would also like to know what happens next for all the characters.
When We Were Human is a story about a young girl as she copes with all the loss she has had to endure since the creepers invaded. After she lost her little sister Eva kept to herself hiding from anyone she would see on the road. Eva would kill/skin any creeper she came upon if possible. Killing the creepers was one of the ways she dealt with the loss of her little sister, Lily.
One day she meets Walker and Tara who help her deal with everything as they have suffered the same things as Eva with losing their families. Being together I believe helps all three of them to heal just a little bit more each day.
I highly recommend When We Were Human to all fans of aliens and dystopian stories with a little bit of romance. Grab a copy of When We Were Human today!
June 4, 2019
First, I have to start off by stating that I got this book free of charge in exchange for a review, but as I always state, this does not in any way impact my review. My reviews are always honest and my own.
The story is interesting and draws you in right from the beginning. I enjoyed feeling like you are right there with the characters in their world. Couldn't put it down!
An alien race invaded Earth four years ago. Though Earth won, there were few survivors and a mostly decimated landscape remained. Small groups of survivors have banded together in search of a new existence - and humanity. When Eva meets Walker and Tara, she discovers hope for a new beginning.
I enjoyed Eva's story of torment and survival. She had become as ruthless as the aliens that had tried to take over the planet. It was difficult for her to trust others after seeing the worst of mankind when they had been liberated, only to be in another kind of prison. There were some terrifying moments as well as a little romance to keep my interest. The story seemed open-ended at the conclusion and I suspect there might be a sequel. It was mentioned that the aliens that remained appeared to be regrouping for a possible future attack, so I can easily envision another book. BettySoo's voice was age appropriate for the characters and I could easily distinguish between them. She did an excellent job of drawing in the listener and conveying their emotions. When We Were Human was an enjoyable listening experience and I would recommend it.
The story is interesting and draws you in right from the beginning. I enjoyed feeling like you are right there with the characters in their world. Couldn't put it down!
An alien race invaded Earth four years ago. Though Earth won, there were few survivors and a mostly decimated landscape remained. Small groups of survivors have banded together in search of a new existence - and humanity. When Eva meets Walker and Tara, she discovers hope for a new beginning.
I enjoyed Eva's story of torment and survival. She had become as ruthless as the aliens that had tried to take over the planet. It was difficult for her to trust others after seeing the worst of mankind when they had been liberated, only to be in another kind of prison. There were some terrifying moments as well as a little romance to keep my interest. The story seemed open-ended at the conclusion and I suspect there might be a sequel. It was mentioned that the aliens that remained appeared to be regrouping for a possible future attack, so I can easily envision another book. BettySoo's voice was age appropriate for the characters and I could easily distinguish between them. She did an excellent job of drawing in the listener and conveying their emotions. When We Were Human was an enjoyable listening experience and I would recommend it.
August 22, 2020
Good narration. She fits the characters well and her guy voice was pretty good. I’d recommend listening.
Alien invasion story, or rather the aftermath after the invasion. The humans have “won”, but the remaining humans are still dealing with a post apocalyptic world and straggler alien types. The story is okay, but I was hoping for more actual alien action. This is mostly about self harm, and the disgusting humans that are the real problem. I didn’t connect with the main character, Eva, she shows strength on the outside, but she’s a mess on the inside. She’s too weak mentally. She makes idiotic choices too many times; she endangers herself and others repeatedly. Luckily for her, she meets Walker and Tara. They are the best thing to happen to Eva and she is pretty much the worst thing that happened to them; well, not the worst, but she doesn’t do them any favors either. I liked that they meet quickly in the story; the story gets right going, so that’s good. The romance felt weird to me; I don’t see Eva being the number one priority for Walker. It felt like it would always be Tara; plus, the Ginger stuff was weird. The action that was in the story was entertaining. The story does have some interesting elements, so I did enjoy the story. Some good danger and suspense going on. Just wanted more character growth, more actual alien action, and the ending felt like a let down. Overall, an interesting read; just not what I was expecting and wanting to get from this read.
Alien invasion story, or rather the aftermath after the invasion. The humans have “won”, but the remaining humans are still dealing with a post apocalyptic world and straggler alien types. The story is okay, but I was hoping for more actual alien action. This is mostly about self harm, and the disgusting humans that are the real problem. I didn’t connect with the main character, Eva, she shows strength on the outside, but she’s a mess on the inside. She’s too weak mentally. She makes idiotic choices too many times; she endangers herself and others repeatedly. Luckily for her, she meets Walker and Tara. They are the best thing to happen to Eva and she is pretty much the worst thing that happened to them; well, not the worst, but she doesn’t do them any favors either. I liked that they meet quickly in the story; the story gets right going, so that’s good. The romance felt weird to me; I don’t see Eva being the number one priority for Walker. It felt like it would always be Tara; plus, the Ginger stuff was weird. The action that was in the story was entertaining. The story does have some interesting elements, so I did enjoy the story. Some good danger and suspense going on. Just wanted more character growth, more actual alien action, and the ending felt like a let down. Overall, an interesting read; just not what I was expecting and wanting to get from this read.
November 2, 2020
4.5 Stars
I received this book via a promo code and this is my honest voluntary review. Ever seen the tv series Falling Skies? It's the end of the world as humans know it. Only this time its not refugee aliens, nope... these guys are straight up War of the Worlds destroyers. The Creepers have taken everything from 18 year old Eva, and she barely remembers what it feels like to hope. Assuming her entire family is dead, Eva has spent her days seeking retribution against the invaders, surviving, avoiding humans and aliens alike, Then her world intersects with two fellow survivors. Walker and Tara. She travels with them to an abandoned nearby refugee outpost and finds something that shifts her entire universe. A reason to Hope... a reason to believe that humanity could really get a second chance. There's still plenty of danger though. Stories from other survivors in a nearby town give hints that the invaders are adapting after their recent losses. Learning that to survive on Earth... there's safety in numbers. Can Eva accept joining with Walker and Tara, and give in to the hope of a new start at the settlement if the end of her journey only holds more tragedy? No Spoilers from me... you will have to listen and find out :) Loved this story, if there was a sequel... I would be more than happy to join them again.
I received this book via a promo code and this is my honest voluntary review. Ever seen the tv series Falling Skies? It's the end of the world as humans know it. Only this time its not refugee aliens, nope... these guys are straight up War of the Worlds destroyers. The Creepers have taken everything from 18 year old Eva, and she barely remembers what it feels like to hope. Assuming her entire family is dead, Eva has spent her days seeking retribution against the invaders, surviving, avoiding humans and aliens alike, Then her world intersects with two fellow survivors. Walker and Tara. She travels with them to an abandoned nearby refugee outpost and finds something that shifts her entire universe. A reason to Hope... a reason to believe that humanity could really get a second chance. There's still plenty of danger though. Stories from other survivors in a nearby town give hints that the invaders are adapting after their recent losses. Learning that to survive on Earth... there's safety in numbers. Can Eva accept joining with Walker and Tara, and give in to the hope of a new start at the settlement if the end of her journey only holds more tragedy? No Spoilers from me... you will have to listen and find out :) Loved this story, if there was a sequel... I would be more than happy to join them again.
October 24, 2017
This was a very interesting story of a decimated world after the invasion of "Creeper's". For a youth end world story it was prefect. The book follows Eva 4 years after she's lost everyone she's loved. She meets up with a few good people that help her get through this new world, while they continue to try to find the people that they loved and believe are still alive some where. I'm not crazy about the evil things that people will probably do after the end of our world. But the author does a great job with touching base with those "evils" with out the need to go into gory detail! Thankfully!
One of the part's I really loved about this book was that Eva not only makes new friends with some good people left in this world but finds a new love "Walker". Together they are able to find a few loved ones also. So I really felt that "good wins over evil" in the book. I would recommend this book to anyone that enjoy's post apocalyptic story's but would like to be without the gory parts. A fairly fast paced book.
The narrator: Betty does a very nice job of giving the listener a feel for what Eva is going through in this end world.
I received this book free in exchange for a honest review.
One of the part's I really loved about this book was that Eva not only makes new friends with some good people left in this world but finds a new love "Walker". Together they are able to find a few loved ones also. So I really felt that "good wins over evil" in the book. I would recommend this book to anyone that enjoy's post apocalyptic story's but would like to be without the gory parts. A fairly fast paced book.
The narrator: Betty does a very nice job of giving the listener a feel for what Eva is going through in this end world.
I received this book free in exchange for a honest review.
November 13, 2017
An alien race invaded Earth four years ago. Though Earth won, there were few survivors and a mostly decimated landscape remained. Small groups of survivors have banded together in search of a new existence - and humanity. When Eva meets Walker and Tara, she discovers hope for a new beginning.
I enjoyed Eva's story of torment and survival. She had become as ruthless as the aliens that had tried to take over the planet. It was difficult for her to trust others after seeing the worst of mankind when they had been liberated, only to be in another kind of prison. There were some terrifying moments as well as a little romance to keep my interest. The story seemed open-ended at the conclusion and I suspect there might be a sequel. It was mentioned that the aliens that remained appeared to be regrouping for a possible future attack, so I can easily envision another book. BettySoo's voice was age appropriate for the characters and I could easily distinguish between them. She did an excellent job of drawing in the listener and conveying their emotions. When We Were Human was an enjoyable listening experience and I would recommend it.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review. This review is my honest opinion.
I enjoyed Eva's story of torment and survival. She had become as ruthless as the aliens that had tried to take over the planet. It was difficult for her to trust others after seeing the worst of mankind when they had been liberated, only to be in another kind of prison. There were some terrifying moments as well as a little romance to keep my interest. The story seemed open-ended at the conclusion and I suspect there might be a sequel. It was mentioned that the aliens that remained appeared to be regrouping for a possible future attack, so I can easily envision another book. BettySoo's voice was age appropriate for the characters and I could easily distinguish between them. She did an excellent job of drawing in the listener and conveying their emotions. When We Were Human was an enjoyable listening experience and I would recommend it.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review. This review is my honest opinion.
May 27, 2019
Okay, so where to begin.
For me, this seemed the type of story that is more character focused than the plot. While the plot was wonderful, with the idea of aliens invading and leaving Earth in dystopia, I felt like the characters were the real purpose of the story. Learning their flaws and weaknesses made them all seem like real people.
Especially the MC Eva. She was probably one of the realist characters I’ve come across in fiction in a while. As a survivor of the war, she is all over the place and finds solace by skinning any of the alien creatures she comes across. To cope with the death of her sister, she cuts leaving one scar a day for each day that she is without her.
All the characters are very vividly created like that. The other survivors Walker and Tara are also described in detail, even down to the way that they eat and think. I absolutely fell in love with the characters, and I’m hoping there will be another book, even if it’s just a short story, where we’ll get to see these characters again, and how they’re coping in their new world.
This book was given to me for free at my request and I provided this voluntary review.
For me, this seemed the type of story that is more character focused than the plot. While the plot was wonderful, with the idea of aliens invading and leaving Earth in dystopia, I felt like the characters were the real purpose of the story. Learning their flaws and weaknesses made them all seem like real people.
Especially the MC Eva. She was probably one of the realist characters I’ve come across in fiction in a while. As a survivor of the war, she is all over the place and finds solace by skinning any of the alien creatures she comes across. To cope with the death of her sister, she cuts leaving one scar a day for each day that she is without her.
All the characters are very vividly created like that. The other survivors Walker and Tara are also described in detail, even down to the way that they eat and think. I absolutely fell in love with the characters, and I’m hoping there will be another book, even if it’s just a short story, where we’ll get to see these characters again, and how they’re coping in their new world.
This book was given to me for free at my request and I provided this voluntary review.
April 25, 2020
Kate invites us to an apocalyptic survival tale on redemption and hope. We’ve been here before, aliens invading our world, for what purpose is not clear. Seeing your friends, neighbors, and loved ones rounded up, tortured, and killed can leave you in a bad place. Grief, guilt, and revenge can twist your mind, putting you on an unfamiliar path. Eva is on this path; a young woman filled with a vengeance and little hope after seeing her younger sister taken away by the aliens, unable to stop them. Eva is discovered amid her grizzly retribution by Walker and Tara. These two young survivors are looking for Tara’s family without much luck. Eva joins them, continuing on their desperate quests. Walker and Tara are good people, seeing the misery and torment within Eva, and want to help her. Thus begins a new endeavor for Walker and Tara, not only to help in looking for Eva’s sister but guide her from her fatal course. Another excellent story with realistic, likable characters. I’m always impressed with Kate L. Mary’s talent, and her ability to draw you into the story. I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
May 25, 2019
Eva has just about given up. she is practically feral...She comes across Walker and Tara and of course, she is very leery of them. She knows in this new world you can not trust most people. They are very calm and kind to her and she starts to warm up...They quickly form a bond and Eva comes slowly back to life, learning there is room for friendship and love in the alien apocalypse!! I really enjoyed this story...the characters are really well written, and the narrator was perfect! I hope Kate decides to write another one...I want to know what's going to happen with those leftover aliens...they definitely have a vendetta with Eva!!!
COMPLETELY RECOMMEND!! GREAT LISTEN FOR ANY AGE!!!
COMPLETELY RECOMMEND!! GREAT LISTEN FOR ANY AGE!!!
January 4, 2020
I first must say I love the human characters. But, some felt like they were added just to add them. Not fully defined. Ben pops into my mind. Some not fully fleshed out. I’d have loved some back story on some.
And the “ bad “ characters, non humans, seriously needed more storyline. Not just there.
But my biggest problem is the ending. No resolve on the storyline. Just...done. I need and want more. No, done, all over. Felt incomplete.
I have a lot of other books by this author. Not read them and they’ll get pushed back now.
And the “ bad “ characters, non humans, seriously needed more storyline. Not just there.
But my biggest problem is the ending. No resolve on the storyline. Just...done. I need and want more. No, done, all over. Felt incomplete.
I have a lot of other books by this author. Not read them and they’ll get pushed back now.
May 22, 2019
Great story!
I thoroughly enjoyed reading about Eva and how her life changed so many times in the first five years after an alien invasion. Going from a broken soul totally alone, to finding people she can trust, and eventually becoming human once again. I really got into this one and I think Kate left the ending open for at least one more book about Eva and Walker and everyone else left in the world.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading about Eva and how her life changed so many times in the first five years after an alien invasion. Going from a broken soul totally alone, to finding people she can trust, and eventually becoming human once again. I really got into this one and I think Kate left the ending open for at least one more book about Eva and Walker and everyone else left in the world.
February 17, 2025
Excellent alien invasion story
Great characters and exploration of how they survive in a dystopian world. Civilization has been nearly destroyed, but groups are beginning to band together. Some groups are good and want to thrive by cooperation. Some are evil and exploit resources with complete brutality. Also, dangerous aliens roam the landscape. Keeps you on the edge of your seat as you hope for the characters survival.
Great characters and exploration of how they survive in a dystopian world. Civilization has been nearly destroyed, but groups are beginning to band together. Some groups are good and want to thrive by cooperation. Some are evil and exploit resources with complete brutality. Also, dangerous aliens roam the landscape. Keeps you on the edge of your seat as you hope for the characters survival.
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