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Surviving Ashes #5
Rising Flames
USA Today Bestselling Author Kennedy Layne concludes the Surviving Ashes series with an explosive story where the strength of love rises against the loss of humanity…
Van Overton had given years of service to his country. He’d paid his dues and he no longer needed to put his life on the line. He could live out the rest of his days doing what he did best—making money from inside the heart of the world’s fastest paced financial system.
Allie James had wished time and again for something—anything—to happen just so she didn’t have to open another eviction notice. She adored the hustle and bustle of the city, her cozy apartment in a good neighborhood, and the rugged looking man across the hall wasn’t half bad to look at either. Regrettably, she’d been thinking more along the lines of winning the lottery than an approaching apocalypse.
Van should have known his luck wouldn’t hold out, but a supervolcano eruption? It was a good thing his time in the military had taught him to be ready for just about anything. Unfortunately, his next-door neighbor didn’t fit into anyone’s idea of a survival plan. Allie was everything he tried to avoid in a woman, but she was definitely the one who had the ability to steal his heart.
Van Overton had given years of service to his country. He’d paid his dues and he no longer needed to put his life on the line. He could live out the rest of his days doing what he did best—making money from inside the heart of the world’s fastest paced financial system.
Allie James had wished time and again for something—anything—to happen just so she didn’t have to open another eviction notice. She adored the hustle and bustle of the city, her cozy apartment in a good neighborhood, and the rugged looking man across the hall wasn’t half bad to look at either. Regrettably, she’d been thinking more along the lines of winning the lottery than an approaching apocalypse.
Van should have known his luck wouldn’t hold out, but a supervolcano eruption? It was a good thing his time in the military had taught him to be ready for just about anything. Unfortunately, his next-door neighbor didn’t fit into anyone’s idea of a survival plan. Allie was everything he tried to avoid in a woman, but she was definitely the one who had the ability to steal his heart.
212 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 21, 2017
38 people are currently reading
106 people want to read
About the author
Kennedy Layne
156 books657 followersKennedy Layne is a USA Today bestselling author. She draws inspiration for her romantic thrillers in part from her not-so-secret second life as a wife of a retired Marine Master Sergeant. He doubles as her critique partner, beta reader, and military consultant. Kennedy also has a deep love for cozy mysteries, thrillers, and basically any book that can keep her guessing until the very end. They live in the Midwest with their menagerie of pets. The loyal dogs and mischievous cats appreciate her writing days as much as she does, usually curled up in front of the fireplace.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
June 25, 2017
5++++++ ‘This is Princess to Rambo’ Stars.
I love myself some post-apocalyptic romance and this book is no different. So I came in at the tail end of the series. This is the last book in the series and if this is anything to go by then this is a must read. Go and add all the books to your TBR shelf. The first one is FREE on Amazon.
This is full of action and it really got my blood pumping. It is an exciting read with action and a scary plot that could really happen. The Yellowstone caldera has exploded. The world is full of ashes you will soon be. The odds of surviving? Virtually zero to none.
Unless….
You are Van Overton and your former brothers-in-arms specifically Tank has been a prepper and has everything you need at Lost Summit.
Only problem? Van is in New York so he is going in to danger instead of trying to get away with it. Washington State is where Lost Summit and it won’t be an easy feat getting there. But if anyone can then it is him. HE is a bit of a prick though.
All I can say Allie is be careful what you wish for. But who would have thought that could happen? All the problems you had before seemed trivial and petty when being realistic.
They don’t get off to the best start but Van saves her life on numerous accounts while she comes to grasps with the current situation and in the end realises that her best bet is that she sticks with Van. She has his six and is a fast learner.
Martial Law has been called. The veneer that we call civilisation has come to an end it is survival of the fittest. It didn’t happen long for everything to come to a standstill.
Three gruelling weeks later and they have come to rely on one another and feelings have developed all they aren’t keen to act on them. Reluctant to admit to their feelings because who want to be the last man/woman on earth? When they were neighbours beforehand.
They first kissed at the 75% mark and had sex somewhat later but the build up to it is great and I don’t care because that is how awesome the plot is.
The obstacles they overcome, being captured by a madman. The life and death situations. The characters and well everything just bloody awesome and a must read.
I will read all the others as this is right up my alley.
Review can be found @http://jerisbookattic-reviewblog.blog...
March 22, 2017
This series started off so strong and as I love apocalyptic books I was stoked about the series. The first book starts after a rather larger earthquake happens at Yellowstone. Ernie “Tank” Yates a retired Marines was a prepper and opened up Lost Mountain Lodge in a small town in northeastern Washington state. Tank always had a theory that one day Yellowstone would blow and had been building a large shelter in the hills with enough natural resources that could sustain them for years. Five marines that served under him helped him over the years build the shelter but never believed Tank about Yellowstone one day erupting. The first book blended the natural disaster, getting the town ready and the romance perfectly. The other books were about the 4 other marines making their way to Lost Summit through the ash cloud and the perils they experience on the way.
That all being said – that worked for the first 3 books. But by the 4th it got stale because nothing was new. It was the same story except insert different couple coming from different state. With this being the last book in the series I was hoping that formula would change – at least for the ending. But alas, no it was no different and other than finding out the real reason Truman showed up in the first book at the lodge and Tank making a big decision right at the very end of the book there was nothing new. There was no epilogue to see how everyone is fairing living in an apocalyptic world years down the road. The book just ended like others did. No wrap up at all.
For a series that started out so strong and with such potential it fell flat and repetitive by the end.
That all being said – that worked for the first 3 books. But by the 4th it got stale because nothing was new. It was the same story except insert different couple coming from different state. With this being the last book in the series I was hoping that formula would change – at least for the ending. But alas, no it was no different and other than finding out the real reason Truman showed up in the first book at the lodge and Tank making a big decision right at the very end of the book there was nothing new. There was no epilogue to see how everyone is fairing living in an apocalyptic world years down the road. The book just ended like others did. No wrap up at all.
For a series that started out so strong and with such potential it fell flat and repetitive by the end.
March 12, 2023
Possibly my favorite couple of the series.
I love that Allie is NOT a trained or hardened heroine, like the others in the series. She is your typical civilian just trying to make it day by day. Her and Van are so sweet together. He really tries to leave her in New York, but trouble follows them. This story wraps up the plot with the other military group. I would have liked to have seen a bit further in the future and see the bunker thrive. But it still ended nicely.
This might be the slowest burn of the series, but also might be my favorite. I binged this whole series in less than a week and now I don't know what the real world is...
I love that Allie is NOT a trained or hardened heroine, like the others in the series. She is your typical civilian just trying to make it day by day. Her and Van are so sweet together. He really tries to leave her in New York, but trouble follows them. This story wraps up the plot with the other military group. I would have liked to have seen a bit further in the future and see the bunker thrive. But it still ended nicely.
This might be the slowest burn of the series, but also might be my favorite. I binged this whole series in less than a week and now I don't know what the real world is...
December 4, 2017
I love this series!!! A fitting end to an amazing series. The first book in this series was my first time reading this author. I like trying random new authors and Kennedy Layne is now on my permanent list of must read authors.
January 5, 2022
Loved it!
No plot spoilers
No potential triggers
There are a few errors but nothing to get irritated about.
There is one violent scene.
The characterisation is really good, more than enough to allow you to form a connection. The characters have their own individual personality types and their own motivators.
The plotline has been so engaging I purchased the books one after the other because I had to learn what happens to each character.
It's a series about the end of the world as we know it, it's about the journey both physically and emotionally.
It's about love.
There is also a spot of intrigue and danger.
There is one sex scene and some swearing.
I take exception to some comments from reviewers who have slated the series, or worse, provided a poor review of this particular book because they didn't like the ending.
All questions are answered, it's not rushed or forced. It's a natural part of the book and to me, having a pop at the book just because it reaches it's conclusion is ridiculous.
One reviewer stated they wanted an extended epilogue so they could know what happened next . . .
That's a sign of a good plotline when readers want more, but selfish to punish the author because they don't provide it.
I have been very happy to read the series and have no doubt that I will return for a re-read at some point in the future.
If you are a fan of apocalyptic books, a fan of romance and a fan of intrigue I have no problem recommending the series.
No plot spoilers
No potential triggers
There are a few errors but nothing to get irritated about.
There is one violent scene.
The characterisation is really good, more than enough to allow you to form a connection. The characters have their own individual personality types and their own motivators.
The plotline has been so engaging I purchased the books one after the other because I had to learn what happens to each character.
It's a series about the end of the world as we know it, it's about the journey both physically and emotionally.
It's about love.
There is also a spot of intrigue and danger.
There is one sex scene and some swearing.
I take exception to some comments from reviewers who have slated the series, or worse, provided a poor review of this particular book because they didn't like the ending.
All questions are answered, it's not rushed or forced. It's a natural part of the book and to me, having a pop at the book just because it reaches it's conclusion is ridiculous.
One reviewer stated they wanted an extended epilogue so they could know what happened next . . .
That's a sign of a good plotline when readers want more, but selfish to punish the author because they don't provide it.
I have been very happy to read the series and have no doubt that I will return for a re-read at some point in the future.
If you are a fan of apocalyptic books, a fan of romance and a fan of intrigue I have no problem recommending the series.
June 21, 2017
My Queen of Security... damn she left the best for last!!! I've loved this series, fell head over heels in love with Mason, been gripped by the storytelling, danger and struggle for survival thanks to Mother Nature erupting a super volcano.
Then Van & Allie hit the page! Oh my god is Allie my gal! Van's comment on her running about like a chicken with it's head chopped off.... KILLED ME.
As with all the couples, the chemistry between Van & Allie radiates and I just can't stop gushing as it her! I loved her thought process, her mannerisms, her questions!
Sad to see this series end, we finally find out the why's of Truman and its endearing the lengths he's went to end and how exciting it would be to have a little catch up with these guys in 10 years time to see how they are all doing.
Then Van & Allie hit the page! Oh my god is Allie my gal! Van's comment on her running about like a chicken with it's head chopped off.... KILLED ME.
As with all the couples, the chemistry between Van & Allie radiates and I just can't stop gushing as it her! I loved her thought process, her mannerisms, her questions!
Sad to see this series end, we finally find out the why's of Truman and its endearing the lengths he's went to end and how exciting it would be to have a little catch up with these guys in 10 years time to see how they are all doing.
October 13, 2018
In the concluding book of the Surviving Ashes series, we meet Van Overton and Allie James, neighbors in an apartment who barely know one another, but end up heading out of New York City to Lost Summit, Washington. Allie could not have been more different than Van's usual woman. She was on the verge of eviction and he was on the way to becoming a very rich man when the Yellowstone Caldera exploded. Van had not intended to take anyone with him, but Allie's determination and resilience were irresistible. They made their way west taking a northern route. The end of the journey brought the most danger.
August 19, 2020
Van and Allie's story was very enjoyable. I really liked that Allie was an average girl making mistakes in the middle of an apocalypse. Running straight towards enemy fire and Van's hilarious reaction. Leaving Van with no choice but to take her with him or leave her to be vulnerable with the masses. I really liked the use of the Snow Trac as their travel vehicle and I commend Layne for the creativity. The technical aspects of the series were well thought out and different with each book. This is what kept every book exciting in its own unique way. The ending with Truman seemed quite rushed and I still feel like I have a few unanswered questions. Overall I really enjoyed this series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 22, 2017
For the last book in this series I was a little let down with this one. I had a hard time buying the romance between these 2, they were neighbors and he didn't even know her name, while she lusted after him. Van didn't even want to bring her along, but was sort of forced into it. Allie even brought up the fact that he was attracted to him because she was the "last woman on earth", which was sort of true. Even when they made it to the camp things were blah, a little drama at the end, they beat the bad guys, now live life in this new normal.
October 31, 2018
This is the final story in the Surviving Ashes series, and I’m so sad to see it end! I love this group of men who are family through and through. And the women they met along the way who ended up being their happiness at the most awful time in the world. And of course Tank, their Father figure, their savior due to his preparing for such a thing. I just loved them so much and each of their stories. This one is Van & Allies, and it couldn’t end any better. This series is a definite must read, one you’ll fly right through because you can’t wait to see what happens next! Just loved!!!
October 28, 2019
Van and Allie
So sorry that this is the end of this series but the final book: Rising Flames is a great 👍 name for the ending. Van and Allie are quite the couple 💑 with Allie being the city girl that she is. The Princess came through and Rambo was so very thankful! Love the ending and the Epilogue! It would be interesting to revisit the series just to see how things are progressing. By the way, what about a series on Kellen Truman and that team? Great 👍 Series and a fantastic set of novels!
So sorry that this is the end of this series but the final book: Rising Flames is a great 👍 name for the ending. Van and Allie are quite the couple 💑 with Allie being the city girl that she is. The Princess came through and Rambo was so very thankful! Love the ending and the Epilogue! It would be interesting to revisit the series just to see how things are progressing. By the way, what about a series on Kellen Truman and that team? Great 👍 Series and a fantastic set of novels!
May 22, 2018
Neighbors for over a year, passing each other in the hall often. Harsh reality forces the together and to make choices they would otherwise not have made. The struggles to make their way to their new home drew them closer together. Neither had expected it but both welcomed it. Fantastic end to this wonderful series.
December 16, 2019
Was sad to see it end
These books are meant to be read in order, to know who is who. Lots twists and turns. These guys are who you want to be stranded with when all hell breaks loose. Allie would be your average woman now days, and her reactions are believable, I would be lost like her. Van, her neighbor takes her in and helps to get her to safety, some romance and lots action and drama thrown in. Great book, and series
These books are meant to be read in order, to know who is who. Lots twists and turns. These guys are who you want to be stranded with when all hell breaks loose. Allie would be your average woman now days, and her reactions are believable, I would be lost like her. Van, her neighbor takes her in and helps to get her to safety, some romance and lots action and drama thrown in. Great book, and series
March 14, 2021
Loved this series!
Great storytelling, weaved the characters struggles into a can’t-wait-for-the-next-book edge of your seat ride!
Apocalypse genre has become my favorite and Kennedy ranks very high with this series. Plenty of action without brutality on the female lead. Just right amount of sexual tension and caring. Please write more of this genre! You’re great at it!
Great storytelling, weaved the characters struggles into a can’t-wait-for-the-next-book edge of your seat ride!
Apocalypse genre has become my favorite and Kennedy ranks very high with this series. Plenty of action without brutality on the female lead. Just right amount of sexual tension and caring. Please write more of this genre! You’re great at it!
May 3, 2019
3 stars
This had so much potential but what the heck was that ending? Do you call that an epilogue? I feel like we read only half stories (minus Berke and Maxie's book... that one was awesome!) Because in the end there was no continuity or conclusion. Such a disappointment!
This had so much potential but what the heck was that ending? Do you call that an epilogue? I feel like we read only half stories (minus Berke and Maxie's book... that one was awesome!) Because in the end there was no continuity or conclusion. Such a disappointment!
March 22, 2017
4 1/2 out of 5
This was a very satisfying finish to the series. I love how she paced these books. They were written out so well that even times I wasn't reading I felt the urgency of everything. This is a great apocalypse series.
This was a very satisfying finish to the series. I love how she paced these books. They were written out so well that even times I wasn't reading I felt the urgency of everything. This is a great apocalypse series.
March 25, 2017
This was a great series and sad to see it end. The story was so fluid, and I would love to see what their future holds.
May 22, 2017
Really have enjoyed this series and this is probably my favorite. Sorry to know that it's ending.
July 5, 2017
Loved all 5 of these books.. if you have not read them ..you should
October 19, 2018
Great series
You just want to know if there is going to be more. And if they make it through the dark times.
You just want to know if there is going to be more. And if they make it through the dark times.
May 19, 2017
I really enjoyed this series. I am truly gonna miss it. Kennedy seems to know how to get you to feel what her characters feel. Extremely well written and researched. Sure keeps you on the edge of your seat with the intensity of the story line. Then foe some reason every time I read a book in this series a volcano tv show comes on. Coincidence?
June 26, 2020
A good read. Although, this book finished the series, as a reader I felt as if several plot threads weren't tied up to my satisfaction.
It makes me question the wisdom of starting another series with this author.
It makes me question the wisdom of starting another series with this author.
Want to read
March 22, 2024Purch Amz June 17, 2021
March 24, 2017
This is a very nice series. In my opinion this was a good book. I really enjoyed the stories but I felt like there was still enough to do a few more. I would of like to have read about Vans brother and his team. It just kinda of end.
March 26, 2017
I love this series and wish there was more. There are still characters that need stories!
March 31, 2017
The last book is always the hardest for me as I want to know how it ends, but I don't want it to end. Loved the entire series and will definitely be reading it again and again. This book did not disappoint. Get it and fast!
April 3, 2017
Fantastic book, what a great way to end the series.
April 6, 2017
Excellent
I've never been interested in reading the dystopian genre but this series was really good. I couldn't wait to read the next book in the series. You won't go wrong with Surviving Ashes.
I've never been interested in reading the dystopian genre but this series was really good. I couldn't wait to read the next book in the series. You won't go wrong with Surviving Ashes.
May 3, 2017
Loved this series! Wish it could continue! Still so many questions on how they are fairing!
May 3, 2017
Loved this series but I wish it could continue. I still have a lot of questions on how they are fairing now!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews