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Through the Ashes
Before the light, the truth could be slippery. You could work around it, dodge it, run away from it. But in Bria Ford’s new life, the truth is always knocking … about the past, the fate of friends and family, the realities of burgeoning love, and the changed world. For Bria there’s no escaping the truth—no matter how much she may want to.
In this unflinching sequel to Jacqueline Brown’s The Light, Bria and her friends stride into the heart of the post-disaster world and face test after test of their character and convictions. Bria must choose her path in this wounded world. Freedom or comfort? Give up or run? Who has she become since the world fell away?
In this unflinching sequel to Jacqueline Brown’s The Light, Bria and her friends stride into the heart of the post-disaster world and face test after test of their character and convictions. Bria must choose her path in this wounded world. Freedom or comfort? Give up or run? Who has she become since the world fell away?
308 pages, Paperback
Published January 31, 2017
205 people are currently reading
92 people want to read
About the author
Jacqueline Brown
12 books71 followersDr. Jacqueline Brown is a clinical psychologist who specializes in working with women and girls who have experienced trauma and entanglement with the criminal and juvenile justice systems. She is consistently amazed at the beauty, hope, and resilience of the women and girls with whom she has had the privilege of working, and she is incredibly humbled and grateful to each of them for allowing her to be part of their lives. She strives to bring that same hope, resilience, and beauty into the characters she creates and the stories they tell. Jacqueline lives in Florida with her husband, their two sons, and two furry pound puppies, Roxy and Bella. Please visit her at Jacqueline-Brown.com to find out more about her writing and to be notified of new releases.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
September 4, 2021
4 Stars!!
“People who control know how to control. They’re good at it and good at making you think that everything is your fault. It’s not, plain and simple.”
Bria and her friends stride into the heart of the post-disaster world and face test after test of their character and convictions. Bria must choose her path in this wounded world. Freedom or comfort? Give up or run? Who has she become since the world fell away?
What a roller coaster this was.
This book definitely qualifies as what I would call “book crack”
SOOOO much is happening and definitely kept me on my toes the whole time. I didn’t want to put it down!!
It’s not a perfect book it’s all over the place at times but sometimes that fits a book so perfect and leaves the reader on pins and needles waiting for this next twist to come out of nowhere.
Through the ashes was full of drama, suspense and secrets. I need book 3 NOW!!!
PS- IDK what this book cover is about but I couldn't find the actual book other than this one...so dont let that stop you- its not about DIY Pallet Ideas LOL
Mr. Publisher this needs your attention!
“People who control know how to control. They’re good at it and good at making you think that everything is your fault. It’s not, plain and simple.”
Bria and her friends stride into the heart of the post-disaster world and face test after test of their character and convictions. Bria must choose her path in this wounded world. Freedom or comfort? Give up or run? Who has she become since the world fell away?
What a roller coaster this was.
This book definitely qualifies as what I would call “book crack”
SOOOO much is happening and definitely kept me on my toes the whole time. I didn’t want to put it down!!
It’s not a perfect book it’s all over the place at times but sometimes that fits a book so perfect and leaves the reader on pins and needles waiting for this next twist to come out of nowhere.
Through the ashes was full of drama, suspense and secrets. I need book 3 NOW!!!
PS- IDK what this book cover is about but I couldn't find the actual book other than this one...so dont let that stop you- its not about DIY Pallet Ideas LOL
Mr. Publisher this needs your attention!
July 11, 2018
Continues the story begun in the first book of The Light series with a broadened scope and increased depth. I motored through in less than 24-hours and did not wait to launch right into the third installment.
Though addicting and easy to read, these books are hardly substance-less fluff. Brown injects a myriad of serious, real-life issues into the lives of her characters in this dystopian world, and she handles them with remarkable wisdom and skill.
I couldn't have asked for better summer vacation reading material.
Though addicting and easy to read, these books are hardly substance-less fluff. Brown injects a myriad of serious, real-life issues into the lives of her characters in this dystopian world, and she handles them with remarkable wisdom and skill.
I couldn't have asked for better summer vacation reading material.
March 5, 2022
Wow! I need to start the next book immediately because that cliffhanger was unexpected and I need to know more!
This sequel sees several of the characters from the first book leaving the homestead that has let them thrive after an EMP plunges them into a whole new world. They're returning to Washington D.C. in search of family members, giving them a first hand look at the effects the EMP has had on society. They also learn the origin of the attack. The new characters added are so intriguing and I can't wait to see what happens next!
This sequel sees several of the characters from the first book leaving the homestead that has let them thrive after an EMP plunges them into a whole new world. They're returning to Washington D.C. in search of family members, giving them a first hand look at the effects the EMP has had on society. They also learn the origin of the attack. The new characters added are so intriguing and I can't wait to see what happens next!
August 25, 2021
3.25 stars!
November 8, 2018
Another score 5 for this author
How a writer of fiction handles characterization is the first element in whether I decide to read a book all the way through, and whether to give it a good review. The two families we met in The Light, especially Bria and Jonah, at the center of the action, are realistically portrayed and all are sympathetic, separate individuals who are brought together in an unimaginably difficult crisis. However, they discover a forgotten bond that enables them, along with friends and others, to work together for mutual survival in the midst of worldwide death and destruction.
The story begins with a wedding, after which Sara, the one character without a strong connection to the rest, decides to risk the dangerous journey home to find out if her family has survived. All but one of the young adults, including the newlyweds, decide to travel with her. From there the mood is grim as they make their way through miles of ruined homes and ghost towns to find Sara's family. When they reach the city, they encounter Bria's abusive ex-boyfriend who is now second in command of a tyrannical quasi-martial law cadre of brutes, who disarm and imprison the group, and Bria is forced to endure the abuse she thought to have put behind her.
How she outwits him and finds an ally to rescue her friends may keep you awake to the end. Warning: the cliffhanger ending might be frustrating for some, but you knew this book is mid-trilogy, didn't you?
How a writer of fiction handles characterization is the first element in whether I decide to read a book all the way through, and whether to give it a good review. The two families we met in The Light, especially Bria and Jonah, at the center of the action, are realistically portrayed and all are sympathetic, separate individuals who are brought together in an unimaginably difficult crisis. However, they discover a forgotten bond that enables them, along with friends and others, to work together for mutual survival in the midst of worldwide death and destruction.
The story begins with a wedding, after which Sara, the one character without a strong connection to the rest, decides to risk the dangerous journey home to find out if her family has survived. All but one of the young adults, including the newlyweds, decide to travel with her. From there the mood is grim as they make their way through miles of ruined homes and ghost towns to find Sara's family. When they reach the city, they encounter Bria's abusive ex-boyfriend who is now second in command of a tyrannical quasi-martial law cadre of brutes, who disarm and imprison the group, and Bria is forced to endure the abuse she thought to have put behind her.
How she outwits him and finds an ally to rescue her friends may keep you awake to the end. Warning: the cliffhanger ending might be frustrating for some, but you knew this book is mid-trilogy, didn't you?
September 26, 2019
Unbelievably good story!
The series is futuristic but totally believable. I was swept along with the characters as they live through great loss & yet are held together & strengthened by their faith. Good life lessons abound & excitement & danger as well.
We've had power outages in our area the past 2 days, which has brought to life the possibility of something like this actually happening in our future. Not so much from within our country, but through terrorism. Regardless, reading this series makes me appreciate the freedom & life we have now.
The series is futuristic but totally believable. I was swept along with the characters as they live through great loss & yet are held together & strengthened by their faith. Good life lessons abound & excitement & danger as well.
We've had power outages in our area the past 2 days, which has brought to life the possibility of something like this actually happening in our future. Not so much from within our country, but through terrorism. Regardless, reading this series makes me appreciate the freedom & life we have now.
April 2, 2025
The world has become darker, and the characters are motivated to go out into it to save their family members and come face to face with their pasts instead of hiding away in their little bit of heaven. The issues faced are a little more mature in this book, and the bad guys are a little more bad than before. The "good" guys have been a little more humanized with good and evil emotions. Overall, not terrible, and good for the more worldly teen looking for a fiction book with faith content.
January 25, 2019
Is this the future?
A hard book to read but one to think on. Perhaps this will be our future if our current governing g body continues. Book two is another picture of life after an EMP renders all electronics useless. A survival tale with a thought that God is still in charge as we let Him. Recommend as a good read.
A hard book to read but one to think on. Perhaps this will be our future if our current governing g body continues. Book two is another picture of life after an EMP renders all electronics useless. A survival tale with a thought that God is still in charge as we let Him. Recommend as a good read.
July 10, 2022
Great book
The author doesn't try to explain everything that can go wrong should an emp hit, but rather focuses only on those things that directly affect the storyline.
Well developed characters and storyline. Occasionally get confused about passage of time but it usually becomes clear later in the story.
Would recommend!
The author doesn't try to explain everything that can go wrong should an emp hit, but rather focuses only on those things that directly affect the storyline.
Well developed characters and storyline. Occasionally get confused about passage of time but it usually becomes clear later in the story.
Would recommend!
November 9, 2020
WOW!!
Better than the first book! After the first couple chapters, I could not put it down! Finished reading it in a day!! There was so much to this story, many layers and surprising twists, just thoroughly enjoyed every minute!! On to book 3!
Better than the first book! After the first couple chapters, I could not put it down! Finished reading it in a day!! There was so much to this story, many layers and surprising twists, just thoroughly enjoyed every minute!! On to book 3!
February 21, 2023
This story keeps you on the edge of your seat and is addicting! I have to know what happens to these characters and I want them to eventually live in peace. This book was even better than the first. On to book 3...
October 26, 2025
This second book in the series was actually better than the first. There was a bit more action and the plot moved quickly. I am interested in what happens in book three. I listened to the audiobook and the narration was pretty good.
September 13, 2017
Ended too soon
Wonderful book. Ended much too soon. Can't wait to read the next one. Hope it is out soon. Definite must read
Wonderful book. Ended much too soon. Can't wait to read the next one. Hope it is out soon. Definite must read
October 6, 2017
A thriller
I enjoyed this 2nd book very much. I now have to wait for the next in the series. Jacqueline is a gifted author.
I enjoyed this 2nd book very much. I now have to wait for the next in the series. Jacqueline is a gifted author.
October 21, 2017
Sweet
The story of discovering one's self and God. I loved it. Looking forward to more on brei and Johan. Nice.
The story of discovering one's self and God. I loved it. Looking forward to more on brei and Johan. Nice.
October 29, 2017
Awesome! I simply cannot wait for the 3rd book! Hurry, please?
September 30, 2019
Awesome
Okay. I finished this book quickly and must read the next one soon. I am definitely hooked. A great story.
Okay. I finished this book quickly and must read the next one soon. I am definitely hooked. A great story.
February 2, 2020
Couldn't put the book down!
Well written and exciting! The author continues to develop the characters and the story takes many exciting turns! I loved it!
Well written and exciting! The author continues to develop the characters and the story takes many exciting turns! I loved it!
January 27, 2021
Absolutely hooked. Enjoyed the first book very much and sped through the second one!! Excellent read
October 26, 2021
Onward
Onward to book 4. What can I say? I'm a sucker for a good series . So just 4 more words.
Onward to book 4. What can I say? I'm a sucker for a good series . So just 4 more words.
January 9, 2022
Can't stop reading.
Another attention getting book. From first page to last word. Getting ready for the next one in series. Certainly keeps interest in the the next page.
Another attention getting book. From first page to last word. Getting ready for the next one in series. Certainly keeps interest in the the next page.
January 15, 2022
Thought-provoking
I wonder if I am 1 that would survive in a World without electricity.I do know that I would keep my faith in God.
I wonder if I am 1 that would survive in a World without electricity.I do know that I would keep my faith in God.
September 12, 2022
Wow
A gripper in every sense of the word, but a good gripper, indeed. Well written, and hard hitting with realism.
A gripper in every sense of the word, but a good gripper, indeed. Well written, and hard hitting with realism.
December 15, 2022
Very Thought Provoking
An intense page turner. The one thing that would have made it better is more talk of faith and prayer!
An intense page turner. The one thing that would have made it better is more talk of faith and prayer!
January 19, 2023
A strong continuation of this series with lots of twists and turns. Still really enjoyed all of the characters and what they bring to the story.
July 15, 2023
Wow! This book is intense. Sara decides to go back to DC to find her family. Her friends go with her. What they encounter is horrific.
August 30, 2025
Can't wait to read the next! Great series.
October 4, 2025
I read this within a week.. I think that speaks for itself.
Very intriguing and easy to fall into. I'm excited to start the next book!
3.5☆ Rounded up
Very intriguing and easy to fall into. I'm excited to start the next book!
3.5☆ Rounded up
March 8, 2020
Post apocalyptic fiction in the best of ways
I like lost apocalyptic fiction, within parameter- I don't like unnecessary, graphic violence, and I don't like bleak hopelessness. This series covers the reality of what people could become when civilisation starts getting stripped away, but with a strong undercurrent of hope.
I haven't read many books with Christian aspects that didn't feel like the Christianity was kind of crowbarred in as a sermon. These don't feel like the Christianity is crowbarred in - it feels like a natural, grace filled part of the story.
I like the way romantic love is looked at - not in a burning heat of the moment passion way, but taking in the realities of two people committing to each other and building life together.
The discussions the characters have , their struggles around the ethics of violence and in what circumstances violence might be acceptable- also feel very thought out and well reasoned, particularly within the context of Christianity. Different characters have different viewpoints and those are held together well.
Brilliant series, great characters, I'm enjoying it so much I'm doing something I haven't done in years and buying the third book as soon as I finished the first and second!
I like lost apocalyptic fiction, within parameter- I don't like unnecessary, graphic violence, and I don't like bleak hopelessness. This series covers the reality of what people could become when civilisation starts getting stripped away, but with a strong undercurrent of hope.
I haven't read many books with Christian aspects that didn't feel like the Christianity was kind of crowbarred in as a sermon. These don't feel like the Christianity is crowbarred in - it feels like a natural, grace filled part of the story.
I like the way romantic love is looked at - not in a burning heat of the moment passion way, but taking in the realities of two people committing to each other and building life together.
The discussions the characters have , their struggles around the ethics of violence and in what circumstances violence might be acceptable- also feel very thought out and well reasoned, particularly within the context of Christianity. Different characters have different viewpoints and those are held together well.
Brilliant series, great characters, I'm enjoying it so much I'm doing something I haven't done in years and buying the third book as soon as I finished the first and second!
August 20, 2019
I was so thrilled when I saw Through the Ashes was available to read. The author Jacqueline Brown left us wanting more at the end of the first book The Light in the New Dawn series.
When I began to read Through the Ashes I was eager to see how the story would evolve as well as Bria and Jonah's relationship. There is so much mystery into the past of both Bria and Jonah that I was excited to see how their characters evolved.
Needless to say I was not disappointed in how the author Jacqueline Brown begins to give us more clues into the characters past and how they have become who they are today in the story. Through the Ashes is a constant roller coaster of twists, turns and emotions of the characters.
I was thrilled to see Bria almost break out of her timid shell and show the brave, strong-willed young lady that she truly is deep down. Bria is placed in multiple situations where she could cower and turn back to the person she was trying to escape from being in the first book, The Light, yet she pushes herself. I love seeing how Bria realizes her own personal inner strength and how she can use that strength to help herself as well as everyone around her. Bria's growing strength and perseverance to help her "new family" while fighting her inner self at times is something we all struggle with at times.
Jonah is still fighting some inner conflict as he tries to be the savior to all. It is great to see how he begins to evolve and start to accept that he may need the help of others outside of his immediate family.
The author has also introduced a couple of new characters that bring about more mystery to this series. Yet again the author leaves us wanting more and I can't wait for the next book in the series.
When I began to read Through the Ashes I was eager to see how the story would evolve as well as Bria and Jonah's relationship. There is so much mystery into the past of both Bria and Jonah that I was excited to see how their characters evolved.
Needless to say I was not disappointed in how the author Jacqueline Brown begins to give us more clues into the characters past and how they have become who they are today in the story. Through the Ashes is a constant roller coaster of twists, turns and emotions of the characters.
I was thrilled to see Bria almost break out of her timid shell and show the brave, strong-willed young lady that she truly is deep down. Bria is placed in multiple situations where she could cower and turn back to the person she was trying to escape from being in the first book, The Light, yet she pushes herself. I love seeing how Bria realizes her own personal inner strength and how she can use that strength to help herself as well as everyone around her. Bria's growing strength and perseverance to help her "new family" while fighting her inner self at times is something we all struggle with at times.
Jonah is still fighting some inner conflict as he tries to be the savior to all. It is great to see how he begins to evolve and start to accept that he may need the help of others outside of his immediate family.
The author has also introduced a couple of new characters that bring about more mystery to this series. Yet again the author leaves us wanting more and I can't wait for the next book in the series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews