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After It Happened #2
Humanity
The survivors have established a home, but they still have to face the brutality of human nature.
Not only do they have to survive, they must keep their humanity.
Not only do they have to survive, they must keep their humanity.
192 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 17, 2016
494 people are currently reading
329 people want to read
About the author
Devon C. Ford
80 books430 followersDevon is from the UK, having lived in many places until finally settling in the Midlands. His career in public services started in his teens and has provided a wealth of experiences, both good and some very bad, which form the basis of the book ideas that cause regular insomnia.
He first started reading for fun as an adult, having tried his hardest to avoid anything resembling academia growing up, and at that point the world became a far bigger place. He has been reading, at least one book at a time, ever since.
His debut works, the After It Happened series, (Survival, Humanity, Society) were published in April 2016 followed by Hope (July 2016) and Sanctuary (December 2016). The first part of the series concluded with the release of Rebellion which was published in June 2017.
Storming high into the charts with the first books of the After It Happened series, Devon launched into the top 10 sellers listings in the UK, Australia, Canada and the US, and he made the decision to write full time shortly after the launch of Hope.
Devon’s self-published beginnings caused a stir in the publishing world, and resulted in contracts with Podium Publishing for Audible, narrated by R.C. Bray (The Martian, Expeditionary Force, Arisen), before a publishing deal for kindle and paperbacks with Vulpine Press.
Further works have seen the start of a multi-author series, sci-fi/post-apocalyptic cross genre, futuristic dystopian and alternative history zombie apocalypse. Spin-off books from the After It Happened world have been announced for 2018.
He first started reading for fun as an adult, having tried his hardest to avoid anything resembling academia growing up, and at that point the world became a far bigger place. He has been reading, at least one book at a time, ever since.
His debut works, the After It Happened series, (Survival, Humanity, Society) were published in April 2016 followed by Hope (July 2016) and Sanctuary (December 2016). The first part of the series concluded with the release of Rebellion which was published in June 2017.
Storming high into the charts with the first books of the After It Happened series, Devon launched into the top 10 sellers listings in the UK, Australia, Canada and the US, and he made the decision to write full time shortly after the launch of Hope.
Devon’s self-published beginnings caused a stir in the publishing world, and resulted in contracts with Podium Publishing for Audible, narrated by R.C. Bray (The Martian, Expeditionary Force, Arisen), before a publishing deal for kindle and paperbacks with Vulpine Press.
Further works have seen the start of a multi-author series, sci-fi/post-apocalyptic cross genre, futuristic dystopian and alternative history zombie apocalypse. Spin-off books from the After It Happened world have been announced for 2018.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews
February 8, 2017
This little series about survival is a hidden treasure if you enjoy apocalypse tales. The lack of zombies and lack of swearing also makes it unique in today's apocalypse fiction series. I stopped another ZA series because this is just a different take on the end of the world and I like the setup.
This is book 2 and we start to see our little group grow and with growth comes danger.
Relationships and preserving humanity are the central themes. We learn a little more about what caused so many to die but I like how we get just some bones thrown here and there. Ending great set up for next book in series.
Another fast read!
If you have Kindle Unlimited- they are all free.
This is book 2 and we start to see our little group grow and with growth comes danger.
Relationships and preserving humanity are the central themes. We learn a little more about what caused so many to die but I like how we get just some bones thrown here and there. Ending great set up for next book in series.
Another fast read!
If you have Kindle Unlimited- they are all free.
March 25, 2019
I really like these characters more and more, I already see it will be sad goodbye when the series ends :)
June 19, 2021
I’m really enjoying the After it Happened series and couldn’t load book 3 up quick enough when I finished this book last night.
This apocalyptic survival series has the major items I love about this genre. The extremely likable and good characters form a community together after an apocalyptic event where 99% of the population dies after a horrific virus.
There are no zombies, and no monsters (unless you count the scum who end up creating a society of slaves). The books are mostly about the good group of people and how they become family.
There are even dogs, and kids, and teens.
But the best part… The audiobook is narrated by R C Bray, who is one of my top three favorite audiobook performers. As usual, he’s amazing!
This apocalyptic survival series has the major items I love about this genre. The extremely likable and good characters form a community together after an apocalyptic event where 99% of the population dies after a horrific virus.
There are no zombies, and no monsters (unless you count the scum who end up creating a society of slaves). The books are mostly about the good group of people and how they become family.
There are even dogs, and kids, and teens.
But the best part… The audiobook is narrated by R C Bray, who is one of my top three favorite audiobook performers. As usual, he’s amazing!
June 8, 2019
5 stars audio
4 stars story
4 stars story
May 19, 2016
After receiving a recommendation to check out a new author, I read all three of Devon C Ford’s ‘After It Happened’ series in the same number of days. I’ll be honest; I expected them to be good, but worried that the hype would eclipse the content. I couldn’t have been more wrong!
The second book – Humanity – was true to its title, and really delved into the rights and wrongs of life in such a situation. The plot stayed strong throughout, allowing a secure base to further explore the characters’ relationships to one another and the choices they’d make during the varied situations they found themselves in. Despite being a thought-provoking read, the humour was interspersed perfectly to lift the spirits and contrast with the darker parts of the story. Once again, the book ended with a brilliant hook that enticed me towards the third in the series.
The second book – Humanity – was true to its title, and really delved into the rights and wrongs of life in such a situation. The plot stayed strong throughout, allowing a secure base to further explore the characters’ relationships to one another and the choices they’d make during the varied situations they found themselves in. Despite being a thought-provoking read, the humour was interspersed perfectly to lift the spirits and contrast with the darker parts of the story. Once again, the book ended with a brilliant hook that enticed me towards the third in the series.
January 28, 2020
This author really gets deep into the emotion of things. It's not just about the action, which was bloody good, but it's about the characters learning to live anew. I'm really enjoyed the After It Happened series... even if the one kick arse lesbian couple was only implied.
May 14, 2016
Fantastic....
Love England just not so much their differences in speech, food,etc. I thought at best this would just be a filler series until something better came along. Was I ever wrong!
After the first chapter I was hooked! The storyline is great (don't need zombies for everything) and I love the characters. They are really fleshed out well.
Love the parts of their growing community and how well they've worked together to build their little society.
Kudos to the author. He has written a wonderful trilogy. And now I shall add him to my best authors list....
Love England just not so much their differences in speech, food,etc. I thought at best this would just be a filler series until something better came along. Was I ever wrong!
After the first chapter I was hooked! The storyline is great (don't need zombies for everything) and I love the characters. They are really fleshed out well.
Love the parts of their growing community and how well they've worked together to build their little society.
Kudos to the author. He has written a wonderful trilogy. And now I shall add him to my best authors list....
June 20, 2023
I am going to hold off reading the next one. I do like the main characters but the story line is the same as most.
August 26, 2018
An absolutely amazing book!
April 21, 2016
HUMANITY ably continues the AFTER IT HAPPENED trilogy
Dan, Leah, Neil, Penny, Kate, Sera, Lexi, Joe, Ana, et al. and a continuing-to-expand retinue of characters continue their post-pandemic English countryside survival-of-the-species adventures. Despite the large cast of characters (this reader has a list with names and brief descriptions #ing >40), the well-being of all keeps this reader turning the (e-book) pages. Unlike in some books in the Action/Adventure PA genre, HUMANITY's protagonists occasionally 'miss a shot' 'ignore a warning' or are 'caught unawares' - This has not proved tragic .... yet ..... This reader thinks that may change in Book 3, which I am starting right n.....
Dan, Leah, Neil, Penny, Kate, Sera, Lexi, Joe, Ana, et al. and a continuing-to-expand retinue of characters continue their post-pandemic English countryside survival-of-the-species adventures. Despite the large cast of characters (this reader has a list with names and brief descriptions #ing >40), the well-being of all keeps this reader turning the (e-book) pages. Unlike in some books in the Action/Adventure PA genre, HUMANITY's protagonists occasionally 'miss a shot' 'ignore a warning' or are 'caught unawares' - This has not proved tragic .... yet ..... This reader thinks that may change in Book 3, which I am starting right n.....
August 23, 2016
Good read
These are refreshing books on after the SHTF. No zombies or EMPs but how people survive after a life-changing event. Also a good idea of the evil and the good in mankind. Very well written Mr. Ford.
These are refreshing books on after the SHTF. No zombies or EMPs but how people survive after a life-changing event. Also a good idea of the evil and the good in mankind. Very well written Mr. Ford.
September 2, 2016
A good read
I am loving this series. It is fun to read and makes me think. I keep waiting for something really really bad to happen. I mean, bad things have happened...nothing too crazy. I think it is going down in the next book.
I am loving this series. It is fun to read and makes me think. I keep waiting for something really really bad to happen. I mean, bad things have happened...nothing too crazy. I think it is going down in the next book.
May 25, 2016
Must read
I can't say enough about this series. The characters draw you in. I did a non stop read on this book!
I can't say enough about this series. The characters draw you in. I did a non stop read on this book!
June 11, 2016
Awesome
The second book is just as awesome as the first. You fall in love with every character. I am looking forward to Book 3.
The second book is just as awesome as the first. You fall in love with every character. I am looking forward to Book 3.
June 12, 2016
Good read
Pretty good read for what it is, definitely something I would consider suggesting. Bought the set and so far not disappointed.
Pretty good read for what it is, definitely something I would consider suggesting. Bought the set and so far not disappointed.
June 19, 2016
Great read!
Moves right along. Great characters and story line. Keeps reader interested and wanting more. Can't wait to read more and and stay with story.
Moves right along. Great characters and story line. Keeps reader interested and wanting more. Can't wait to read more and and stay with story.
June 26, 2016
Another Great Book!
Like the first book, this one doesn't disappoint. Fast paced, great characters and an intriguing story make for a read that you can't put down!
Like the first book, this one doesn't disappoint. Fast paced, great characters and an intriguing story make for a read that you can't put down!
October 29, 2017
Here I am again with a short review for this fantastic continuation of book one. Continuing the story right in the middle of the hospital encounter was another great adventure that kept me engaged right to the end.
Let me start this off by focusing on Penny for a moment. This book was a mind-boggling twist/turn scenario for Penny with the various situations she found herself in. I hope to avoid spoilers but I had a very mixed set of emotions throughout the book about her which calmed down in the middle and were very elevated about 3/4 of the way through. This is one character that was very dynamic in terms of character development and complexity.
The next character interactions which drew me in was the introduction of Marie to Dan. This introduced a new dynamic for the group as I was immediately drawn to her, much like Dan, with her sarcasm in the face of imminent danger. She brought about another welcome addition to the group and I am interested to see how this develops later in the series.
The major characteristic of this story, and one that draws me in to the post-apocalyptic genre and is a symbol for me of a well-develop series, is that of the focus on the nature of humanity (hence the title of the book). Devon did a fantastic job of really latching on to those characteristics of our personality that are only brought to the forefront by disaster and/or significant challenges/threats. Watching as the group members settle into their roles, adapting to their new style of living, was fun to listen to. All of the nitty-gritty details really come out when the society we once knew ceases to exist.
The final thing I want to mention is that Devon addressed one area I have not seen addressed elsewhere in a post-apocalyptic book and that is what happens to the animals. I am not going to give away what happened, but the dog scene was definitely a big wow factor for me. Many seem to leave out what happens to those animals who have become accustom to living as house pets, especially when they are left without someone to care for them.
This was easily another 5/5 performance (both in writing and audio narration by R.C. Bray). I can’t wait for the book 3/4 publisher’s pack to be released. The journey is only bound to get better. Very well done, Mr. Ford. I am glad this series finally made it into audiobook form.
Let me start this off by focusing on Penny for a moment. This book was a mind-boggling twist/turn scenario for Penny with the various situations she found herself in. I hope to avoid spoilers but I had a very mixed set of emotions throughout the book about her which calmed down in the middle and were very elevated about 3/4 of the way through. This is one character that was very dynamic in terms of character development and complexity.
The next character interactions which drew me in was the introduction of Marie to Dan. This introduced a new dynamic for the group as I was immediately drawn to her, much like Dan, with her sarcasm in the face of imminent danger. She brought about another welcome addition to the group and I am interested to see how this develops later in the series.
The major characteristic of this story, and one that draws me in to the post-apocalyptic genre and is a symbol for me of a well-develop series, is that of the focus on the nature of humanity (hence the title of the book). Devon did a fantastic job of really latching on to those characteristics of our personality that are only brought to the forefront by disaster and/or significant challenges/threats. Watching as the group members settle into their roles, adapting to their new style of living, was fun to listen to. All of the nitty-gritty details really come out when the society we once knew ceases to exist.
The final thing I want to mention is that Devon addressed one area I have not seen addressed elsewhere in a post-apocalyptic book and that is what happens to the animals. I am not going to give away what happened, but the dog scene was definitely a big wow factor for me. Many seem to leave out what happens to those animals who have become accustom to living as house pets, especially when they are left without someone to care for them.
This was easily another 5/5 performance (both in writing and audio narration by R.C. Bray). I can’t wait for the book 3/4 publisher’s pack to be released. The journey is only bound to get better. Very well done, Mr. Ford. I am glad this series finally made it into audiobook form.
December 5, 2023
Humanity picks up this episodic saga right where Survival, book 1 in the After it Happened Series ended. As I said in my review of book 1, I am not a huge fan of episodic series because I hate having to wait for the next episode to arrive to find out what happens next, but book 1 in this series hooked me. I also said that these episodes need to be read in the order in which they were written because every episode builds upon previous episodes. Book 2 reenforces that. Fortunately for us, all the episodes in this series have been written, are available on Amazon, and are available to read for free if you are a Kindle Unlimited subscriber.
I have read many post-apocalypse thriller series, but After it Happened is the best I have read. Why? It is the best because the cause of the apocalypse is shockingly realistic. It is believable. It could happen. So, the temporary suspension of disbelief is never an issue with these books. I, for one, can easily see something like this happening in the future. Ford has populated his world with characters that we can all identify with. Ordinary people, like our family, friends, co-workers, and neighbors. These are character driven episodic tales that could happen in our lifetime.
These stories are not easy to review without including spoilers in the review, because of the many intricately interwoven plots. It is all these assorted intricately interwoven plots that makes this series so realistic, so lifelike, so believable. This is a series that you really need to read for yourself. I have downloaded the entire series and am off to read Society, book 3 in the series now.
I have read many post-apocalypse thriller series, but After it Happened is the best I have read. Why? It is the best because the cause of the apocalypse is shockingly realistic. It is believable. It could happen. So, the temporary suspension of disbelief is never an issue with these books. I, for one, can easily see something like this happening in the future. Ford has populated his world with characters that we can all identify with. Ordinary people, like our family, friends, co-workers, and neighbors. These are character driven episodic tales that could happen in our lifetime.
These stories are not easy to review without including spoilers in the review, because of the many intricately interwoven plots. It is all these assorted intricately interwoven plots that makes this series so realistic, so lifelike, so believable. This is a series that you really need to read for yourself. I have downloaded the entire series and am off to read Society, book 3 in the series now.
March 3, 2022
I purchased the Book 1 & 2 Omnibus edition from Audible. I thought it would be a good listen because R.C. Bray was narrating, and I enjoy his narrating capabilities. But the story was stale.
Somehow or another, in 2021, I fell on the apocalyptic genre, more so because of enjoying R.C. Bray as a narrator, but I've spent the last few months listening to post-apocalyptic books and each has its own interesting take/viewpoint. This one didn't move like the others. While rebuilding civilization with the remnant that remain after a given event can be told from so many different view points, this one wasn't as enthralling as others I have read/listened to.
There were a lot of characters to wade through and remember. Additionally, the day to day rebuilding of society wasn't as entertaining/didn't pull me in without a stated antagonist to bring tension to the plot. While there were a few antagonist sprinkled throughout the storyline, the majority of the book felt more like watching (or napping to in my case) an afternoon of C-SPAN than it did climbing into a book and losing myself.
While there are several other books in this series, I will not be continuing on with it. I believe I've had my fill of "After It Happened."
Somehow or another, in 2021, I fell on the apocalyptic genre, more so because of enjoying R.C. Bray as a narrator, but I've spent the last few months listening to post-apocalyptic books and each has its own interesting take/viewpoint. This one didn't move like the others. While rebuilding civilization with the remnant that remain after a given event can be told from so many different view points, this one wasn't as enthralling as others I have read/listened to.
There were a lot of characters to wade through and remember. Additionally, the day to day rebuilding of society wasn't as entertaining/didn't pull me in without a stated antagonist to bring tension to the plot. While there were a few antagonist sprinkled throughout the storyline, the majority of the book felt more like watching (or napping to in my case) an afternoon of C-SPAN than it did climbing into a book and losing myself.
While there are several other books in this series, I will not be continuing on with it. I believe I've had my fill of "After It Happened."
December 5, 2023
HUMANITY by Devon Ford is the second book in the series. I purchased this installment based on the cliffhanger at the end of book 1...I needed to see what happened next. It does pick right up from book 1.
As in my review of book 1, this is not a zombie fighting book, it is more of what to do when the world collapses due to an apocalypse of some sort. The "group" has expanded and more new survivors are joining up daily. Their permanent home, farm, and surrounding area are a good fit, and the group is living by their new set of rules...those not willing to apply themselves are banished.
The other part of the story follows the government officials as they live in their underground bunkers. They were not doing as well as "Dan's" group and were planning to leave their sanctuary and head out into the real world.
There are twists and turns along the way. The story flows well and almost makes readers want to take notes on how to survive a phenomenon such as this. There is no cliffhanger at the end of this book, but a battle with another group of evil survivors is looming on the horizon. Highly recommended.
As in my review of book 1, this is not a zombie fighting book, it is more of what to do when the world collapses due to an apocalypse of some sort. The "group" has expanded and more new survivors are joining up daily. Their permanent home, farm, and surrounding area are a good fit, and the group is living by their new set of rules...those not willing to apply themselves are banished.
The other part of the story follows the government officials as they live in their underground bunkers. They were not doing as well as "Dan's" group and were planning to leave their sanctuary and head out into the real world.
There are twists and turns along the way. The story flows well and almost makes readers want to take notes on how to survive a phenomenon such as this. There is no cliffhanger at the end of this book, but a battle with another group of evil survivors is looming on the horizon. Highly recommended.
August 19, 2023
Our group of survivors continues to expand and flourish. Starting from scratch takes a colossal effort, and our group is building their society as best they can. Not everyone is happy – now there's a surprise! But they all have to pull together to improve their situation. Dan sets off to save some people from the bad guys, making him question his humanity. In the end, there is only one answer, as Spock told me one day while we were chatting: 'Emz,' he said, 'logic clearly dictates that the needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few.' I couldn't agree more – wise words indeed.
Great character development makes for a believable and relatable narrative, as well as engaging entertainment, inviting you to invest in the story and characters.
Great character development makes for a believable and relatable narrative, as well as engaging entertainment, inviting you to invest in the story and characters.
November 5, 2019
A policeman finds himself in a world where 99% of the people has died from a kind of pneumonia. He set out to find other survivors.
I read book 1-6 as a boxset. My full review will be under book 6 to avoid spoilers.
The books are very well written but at some point I was almost shouting to Dan to create a militia and put guards up. I can understand you do not want to arm strangers but after having settled in you would think to defend yourself would you not? And what about passing knowledge? Would a remnant of humanity not be able to do as the Arabs did with Greec knowledge? Nevertheless the book series had me glued to my kindle. Can recommend it.
I read book 1-6 as a boxset. My full review will be under book 6 to avoid spoilers.
The books are very well written but at some point I was almost shouting to Dan to create a militia and put guards up. I can understand you do not want to arm strangers but after having settled in you would think to defend yourself would you not? And what about passing knowledge? Would a remnant of humanity not be able to do as the Arabs did with Greec knowledge? Nevertheless the book series had me glued to my kindle. Can recommend it.
January 18, 2018
Humanity by Devon C. Ford once again provides a novel that is enjoyable, but I'm glad I didn't pay for it. Still, I am more driven in this novel to read the next and I would have to say I find the lack of Zombies refreshing. Humans can be bad enough without Zombie rats.
I liked that this book continues to speak to the real issues with a sudden social collapse, and how few of those left out there would really turn to Mad Max style life styles if there are other options. This is a better book than the first, and I think the next will be better still.
I liked that this book continues to speak to the real issues with a sudden social collapse, and how few of those left out there would really turn to Mad Max style life styles if there are other options. This is a better book than the first, and I think the next will be better still.
March 25, 2019
Part two
I've given this five stars because the author knows how to develop his characters and bring out their flaws instead if making them omnipotent and always successful at everything they do. It's not a complicated story, easy to read and flows well. Reads almost like a screenplay at times, not that I regard this as a flaw or fault. I can imagine it making a good T.V. series if the genre wasn't already packing our screens already. Someone should send some free copies to HBO 😁
I've given this five stars because the author knows how to develop his characters and bring out their flaws instead if making them omnipotent and always successful at everything they do. It's not a complicated story, easy to read and flows well. Reads almost like a screenplay at times, not that I regard this as a flaw or fault. I can imagine it making a good T.V. series if the genre wasn't already packing our screens already. Someone should send some free copies to HBO 😁
September 11, 2019
And the good times continue to roll!
Humanity picked right up and kept the story moving right along. I really like how the story keeps adding some new characters that you can feel for. And as for Dan and Marie....hello.....let's move alone here people. I really like how Leah is developing, it's not often you get to see a small child get to step up and contribute like she is. Moving on to the next book now, I'm glad they're all out and I don't have to wait 😊
Good job Devon!
Humanity picked right up and kept the story moving right along. I really like how the story keeps adding some new characters that you can feel for. And as for Dan and Marie....hello.....let's move alone here people. I really like how Leah is developing, it's not often you get to see a small child get to step up and contribute like she is. Moving on to the next book now, I'm glad they're all out and I don't have to wait 😊
Good job Devon!
March 17, 2022
Not a bad second book..
After the events of the first book cliffhanger, that part of the story was wrapped up quickly, without much fanfare. In a way, I'd have liked to have seen the attacker escape, to become an on-going antagonist to the group.
The group gain more people, after they rescue a pair of men who reveal slavers have 30 people held under guard nearby. Naturally, they rescue them, and slaughter all the guards, including the leader.
And the story sets up two groups that want to steal what the survivors have, coming in the next books..
After the events of the first book cliffhanger, that part of the story was wrapped up quickly, without much fanfare. In a way, I'd have liked to have seen the attacker escape, to become an on-going antagonist to the group.
The group gain more people, after they rescue a pair of men who reveal slavers have 30 people held under guard nearby. Naturally, they rescue them, and slaughter all the guards, including the leader.
And the story sets up two groups that want to steal what the survivors have, coming in the next books..
May 28, 2017
I have finished the first two books in this series and am anxious to start the third!
The book keeps you reading even during parts where there isn't a lot of action. I think this is because you are involved with the characters and care not only for how they act, but also why they act and react as they do. I'd say that demonstrates great character studies. I'd recommend this series to anyone interested in character development or in dystopion novels.
The book keeps you reading even during parts where there isn't a lot of action. I think this is because you are involved with the characters and care not only for how they act, but also why they act and react as they do. I'd say that demonstrates great character studies. I'd recommend this series to anyone interested in character development or in dystopion novels.
December 12, 2025
well I've got a new favourite author as this book had the perfect mix of action, tension, humour and realism. The plot is very interesting, not everyone is evil like in most post apocalypse novels, a lot of thought has gone into the story and the characters seem well written and 3 dimensional. This is actually the first time I've read a book back to back but I couldn't leave the universe the author had created after the 1st book as I needed to know what happened.
December 30, 2017
We continue with Dan and his small community of survivors as they face off with bandits, wild animals, and personal struggles following the outbreak of a mysterious flu-like virus that has taken down a large percentage of the population. Those immune to its effects have banded together in hopes of carving out some semblance of a semi-civil, agrarian life.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews