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The EMP #1
Getting Out: A Post-Apocalyptic EMP Survival Thriller
Do you have what it takes to survive?
The EMP hits. The lights go out and silence roars. Society is on the brink of violent chaos. The only way to survive is to get out, away from the cities and into the wilderness.
Max is an office worker with some gear and a plan. He’s one of the first to realize the unspoken dangers. A few years ago, he inherited an old farmhouse. His plan is to get to it as fast as possible and bunker down. He thinks he’s ready, but he quickly discovers that there’s more to surviving than just having the right gear.
Mandy is a waitress with the day off work. What seems like a normal power outage quickly turns terrifying. Her peaceful town is no longer the home she once knew. She’s offered a way out, but can she put her trust in a perfect stranger?
Georgia is a single mother who just wants to keep his two teenage kids safe. She drives a pickup and loves hunting. She has skills that could keep her family alive, but is she ready to make life or death decisions in the blink of an eye?
Do Max, Mandy, and Georgia have what it takes to overcome the unexpected? After all, even the best-laid plans can come up short.
Getting Out is book 1 of The EMP, a post-apocalyptic survival thriller series. It deals with real people fighting for their survival every inch of the way.
The EMP hits. The lights go out and silence roars. Society is on the brink of violent chaos. The only way to survive is to get out, away from the cities and into the wilderness.
Max is an office worker with some gear and a plan. He’s one of the first to realize the unspoken dangers. A few years ago, he inherited an old farmhouse. His plan is to get to it as fast as possible and bunker down. He thinks he’s ready, but he quickly discovers that there’s more to surviving than just having the right gear.
Mandy is a waitress with the day off work. What seems like a normal power outage quickly turns terrifying. Her peaceful town is no longer the home she once knew. She’s offered a way out, but can she put her trust in a perfect stranger?
Georgia is a single mother who just wants to keep his two teenage kids safe. She drives a pickup and loves hunting. She has skills that could keep her family alive, but is she ready to make life or death decisions in the blink of an eye?
Do Max, Mandy, and Georgia have what it takes to overcome the unexpected? After all, even the best-laid plans can come up short.
Getting Out is book 1 of The EMP, a post-apocalyptic survival thriller series. It deals with real people fighting for their survival every inch of the way.
272 pages, Paperback
Published September 11, 2017
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 150 reviews
February 11, 2020
It's 5:22am, I'm tired and a bit loopy but I needed to finish this because I didn't want to dnf it and I've already spent too much time on this. I'm sure I started this before the 9th but I can't remember and it doesn't matter - anything more than a day is too much time.
If I've said it once, I've said it a thousand times - when it comes to apocalyptic, post-apocalyptic and zombies stories you best bring something special to the table or have amazing characters (preferably both - I can dream can't I?) because chances are it's already been done. Take two of my favorites in the post-apocalyptic genre The Reapers are the Angels and Station Eleven. Both masterfully crafted with great characters.
Now back to our regularly scheduled program...
Sadly, I cannot say the same thing for Getting Out. It doesn't bring anything special or a new perspective to the table and the characters are bland.
I get that it can be a challenge when the event is a one-off like an EMP and the author is tasked with making the characters' responses interesting and believable. But they asked for it. When you enter a genre where a lot of the stories are formulaic, you have to step your game up. In an arena where you have cookie cutout (is this right? It doesn't sound right? It's 6:05am, please be gentle with me) or must-have characters i.e from the prepper who's chomping at the bit for something to happen, to those clueless souls that are in denial and waiting for the government to help - your characters have to stand out, be special and I have to like them. The only stand out for me was Norma, and she stood out for the wrong reason.
I wanted to like this story more than I did. I usually devour these in a day and they help break me out of a reading funk. This one was just okay. The story, the characters and the writing were just okay. I may read something else by this author but I doubt I'll continue this series.
A generous three stars.
It's 6:25am in case you were wondering ;)
Have An Amazing Day!
If I've said it once, I've said it a thousand times - when it comes to apocalyptic, post-apocalyptic and zombies stories you best bring something special to the table or have amazing characters (preferably both - I can dream can't I?) because chances are it's already been done. Take two of my favorites in the post-apocalyptic genre The Reapers are the Angels and Station Eleven. Both masterfully crafted with great characters.
Now back to our regularly scheduled program...
Sadly, I cannot say the same thing for Getting Out. It doesn't bring anything special or a new perspective to the table and the characters are bland.
I get that it can be a challenge when the event is a one-off like an EMP and the author is tasked with making the characters' responses interesting and believable. But they asked for it. When you enter a genre where a lot of the stories are formulaic, you have to step your game up. In an arena where you have cookie cutout (is this right? It doesn't sound right? It's 6:05am, please be gentle with me) or must-have characters i.e from the prepper who's chomping at the bit for something to happen, to those clueless souls that are in denial and waiting for the government to help - your characters have to stand out, be special and I have to like them. The only stand out for me was Norma, and she stood out for the wrong reason.
I wanted to like this story more than I did. I usually devour these in a day and they help break me out of a reading funk. This one was just okay. The story, the characters and the writing were just okay. I may read something else by this author but I doubt I'll continue this series.
A generous three stars.
It's 6:25am in case you were wondering ;)
Have An Amazing Day!
December 28, 2017
I've devoured a lot of SHTF / Post Apocalypse books. So much that I'm scraping the bottom of the barrel and reading terrible books like this one to get my fix. This by far has the most stupid and passive characters. The main character is the most idiotic. He keeps making mistakes, which wouldn't be so bad if he learned from them, but it's one idiotic mistake after another. For example; they abandoned their farm house after one encounter with marauders and leave most of their essential supplies because they had to leave in a hurry. The guy in charge of loading their vehicle didn't have time to finish because the other survivors were sleeping; they were too tired to help. On another occasion when they had to flee, to avoid a gunfight, they forgot their AR15 rifles in the house they were sheltering in. How the hell do you forget the most important items needed to survive in a SHTF situation?
The people in the group are all passive. They keep getting screwed by the people they encounter, but they keep making the same stupid mistake afterwords. How many times can you keep looking for the best in people, when they keep trying to shoot and kill you so they can take your property?
The author knows how to write, but he needs a lot work on his character development. Reading this was very frustrating, I couldn't agreed with the many stupid decisions made by the main character. This was a complete waste of my time.
Pass on this PG rated SHTF novel. You'll thank me for it.
The people in the group are all passive. They keep getting screwed by the people they encounter, but they keep making the same stupid mistake afterwords. How many times can you keep looking for the best in people, when they keep trying to shoot and kill you so they can take your property?
The author knows how to write, but he needs a lot work on his character development. Reading this was very frustrating, I couldn't agreed with the many stupid decisions made by the main character. This was a complete waste of my time.
Pass on this PG rated SHTF novel. You'll thank me for it.
September 16, 2017
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Do you think what you have to survive in the post apocalyptic world? Once the EMP hits the lights go out and silence roars. Society is on the brink of violent chaos and the only way to survive is to get away from the cities and into the wilderness. Max is an office worker with some gear and a plan. He is one of the first to realize the danger. His plan is to get out to his old farmhouse and bunker down. He thinks he is ready but soon finds out he needs more than just the right gear. Mandy is a waitress with the day off when the power goes out. She quickly realizes things are way wrong and she needs to get out but can she trust a perfect stranger? Georgia is a single mother to two teenage kids. She drives a pickup and has a passion for hunting. She certainly has the skills to keep her family alive but does she have the ability to make like and death decisions in the blink of an eye?
Buckle up and welcome to Getting Out: A Post-Apocalyptic EMP Survival Thriller. I loved that this book is about normal every day people who do what they have to do when the lights go out and they realize it is more than a power outage. I love that they are not preppers and just normal people doing what they have to do to survive. This book will keep you on your toes and you butt planted firmly on the edge of your seat. This is a book about survival and normal people trying to make it in a world gone mad. Max, Georgia and Mandy all want to survive and will do what ever it takes to make this happen. I don't want to say much about the plot and ruin it for anyone. You just need to get this book and enjoy the ride.
Ryan Westfield has done an amazing job with this book and left me breathless. I can not wait for the next book in this series.
Do you think what you have to survive in the post apocalyptic world? Once the EMP hits the lights go out and silence roars. Society is on the brink of violent chaos and the only way to survive is to get away from the cities and into the wilderness. Max is an office worker with some gear and a plan. He is one of the first to realize the danger. His plan is to get out to his old farmhouse and bunker down. He thinks he is ready but soon finds out he needs more than just the right gear. Mandy is a waitress with the day off when the power goes out. She quickly realizes things are way wrong and she needs to get out but can she trust a perfect stranger? Georgia is a single mother to two teenage kids. She drives a pickup and has a passion for hunting. She certainly has the skills to keep her family alive but does she have the ability to make like and death decisions in the blink of an eye?
Buckle up and welcome to Getting Out: A Post-Apocalyptic EMP Survival Thriller. I loved that this book is about normal every day people who do what they have to do when the lights go out and they realize it is more than a power outage. I love that they are not preppers and just normal people doing what they have to do to survive. This book will keep you on your toes and you butt planted firmly on the edge of your seat. This is a book about survival and normal people trying to make it in a world gone mad. Max, Georgia and Mandy all want to survive and will do what ever it takes to make this happen. I don't want to say much about the plot and ruin it for anyone. You just need to get this book and enjoy the ride.
Ryan Westfield has done an amazing job with this book and left me breathless. I can not wait for the next book in this series.
January 27, 2018
Getting Out by Ryan Westfield knows the score. In a post-apocalyptic world (whether one destroyed by a plague, bioweapons, a worldwide EMP event, or even one overrun by zombies) you may respect the dead but you must fear the living. It is other human survivors that will kill you (to take your supplies, to make you slaves - sex or otherwise, or just for the heck of it). Surviving is essentially a no-win situation - I get tired and depressed just thinking about it.
April 20, 2018
I’m 20% into this book and cannot go on. To begin, I read fiction for entertainment. And even if a story is dark or serious in subject matter, good character establishment and development will keep me in the game every time. This simply didn’t cut it. I rarely ever give a book 5 stars and just as rarely find myself giving a 1 star. I’ve just got too many issues with how this was done.
The start was so dry in how the EMP went down, yet I pressed on. Each introduction of a new character reads more like an author’s outline of a character rather than revealing interesting or important details in a creative way or at a more appropriate time.
While I’m no prude, I cringed big time when Max rescued his neighbor from home invading rapists only to immediately describe the hot body she had. Creepy timing, seriously.
The start was so dry in how the EMP went down, yet I pressed on. Each introduction of a new character reads more like an author’s outline of a character rather than revealing interesting or important details in a creative way or at a more appropriate time.
While I’m no prude, I cringed big time when Max rescued his neighbor from home invading rapists only to immediately describe the hot body she had. Creepy timing, seriously.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 11, 2021
Horrible writing. The author spends more time describing the female characters breasts than talking about prepping.
Seriously, he writes like a horny 16 year old. Every woman character has large breasts that are described in detail, oh and their ass, and their body.
Everyone has to take time to stare at the women's breasts or ass.
Couldn't even finish the book. Do not recommend.
Seriously, he writes like a horny 16 year old. Every woman character has large breasts that are described in detail, oh and their ass, and their body.
Everyone has to take time to stare at the women's breasts or ass.
Couldn't even finish the book. Do not recommend.
January 4, 2024
Enjoyable read
Very enjoyable read. The story is pretty good about a young man wise enough to realize that an EMP had occurred as everyone stood around clueless. The young man knew he needed to get out before everyone went crazy in the city. He was far from being selfish as he ends up helping his neighbor, and along the way a mother and her two teenagers headed in the same direction they were. They faced horrors of stupidity and forced into desperate acts just as their friends did back home, only their friends back home didn't realize that they would meet an unforeseen brutal death.. Though they struggled on their own, somehow working together as a team, they ended up helping each other and making a long journey to a farm house. Safe for the time being but what the future holds is not certain. Looking forward to the next book, dangers are sure to be ahead, will they survive?
I really enjoyed the characters, they became addictively interesting, I want to know more about them and what becomes of them. The story really pulled me in...
Good read.
Very enjoyable read. The story is pretty good about a young man wise enough to realize that an EMP had occurred as everyone stood around clueless. The young man knew he needed to get out before everyone went crazy in the city. He was far from being selfish as he ends up helping his neighbor, and along the way a mother and her two teenagers headed in the same direction they were. They faced horrors of stupidity and forced into desperate acts just as their friends did back home, only their friends back home didn't realize that they would meet an unforeseen brutal death.. Though they struggled on their own, somehow working together as a team, they ended up helping each other and making a long journey to a farm house. Safe for the time being but what the future holds is not certain. Looking forward to the next book, dangers are sure to be ahead, will they survive?
I really enjoyed the characters, they became addictively interesting, I want to know more about them and what becomes of them. The story really pulled me in...
Good read.
June 30, 2019
Mediocre but readable. Reading for the possibility of buying for grandsons.
August 13, 2023
Pretty good.
September 25, 2018
I have read the whole 7 books of The EMP series by Ryan Westfield so far and I doubt I would come back for any possible following book.
At the end, I actually started wondering why? What was the purpose of it all?
The story revolves around a few interesting and a few less interesting characters. Who cross path and work as a group trying to survive the aftermath of an EMP.
It was at first fun to read, although not very challenging but then it got pretty senseless after a while.
I am honest, if the books weren’t on kindle unlimited I would have given up after book 3.
The books were relatively short, and after book 3 nothing really new or progressive happened, anymore. There was no real goal the story was working towards, besides survival that is, but even that gets really boring without a plan to look forward to, after a time.
It felt like every following book was the same, with 3 ruling guidelines:
1. New people came and went.
2. There was always one big fight and some small ones.
3. And the group migrated like nomads around the area.
Then there were some pointless chapters about acquaintances of Max, one main character, in the “Before EMP” world. How they dealt with the aftermath. Or some people of the militia, and their short and tragic life stories. All this people didn’t contribute anything at all to the main story and plot. They all ended up dead anyway. Never saw the point in it, besides page fillers. They didn’t even cross the path of the main characters group or altered it in any way.
This could have been shortened into 3-4 quality books without dragging it uselessly on and on by using 7 books.
The story felt lost, I felt the purpose got lost as well. And the writing had its ups and downs. Repetitive phrases. The characters didn’t have their own language.
The author loved to use the phrase “Before the EMP”, which was used abundantly. And i even started to skip those parts, as it was a sure sign of an upcoming boring and useless reminiscence of a time “Before the EMP” from one of the characters.
I was fed up with the past nostalgia and bored out of my mind with the presence and hoped for a future that never came.
At the end, I actually started wondering why? What was the purpose of it all?
The story revolves around a few interesting and a few less interesting characters. Who cross path and work as a group trying to survive the aftermath of an EMP.
It was at first fun to read, although not very challenging but then it got pretty senseless after a while.
I am honest, if the books weren’t on kindle unlimited I would have given up after book 3.
The books were relatively short, and after book 3 nothing really new or progressive happened, anymore. There was no real goal the story was working towards, besides survival that is, but even that gets really boring without a plan to look forward to, after a time.
It felt like every following book was the same, with 3 ruling guidelines:
1. New people came and went.
2. There was always one big fight and some small ones.
3. And the group migrated like nomads around the area.
Then there were some pointless chapters about acquaintances of Max, one main character, in the “Before EMP” world. How they dealt with the aftermath. Or some people of the militia, and their short and tragic life stories. All this people didn’t contribute anything at all to the main story and plot. They all ended up dead anyway. Never saw the point in it, besides page fillers. They didn’t even cross the path of the main characters group or altered it in any way.
This could have been shortened into 3-4 quality books without dragging it uselessly on and on by using 7 books.
The story felt lost, I felt the purpose got lost as well. And the writing had its ups and downs. Repetitive phrases. The characters didn’t have their own language.
The author loved to use the phrase “Before the EMP”, which was used abundantly. And i even started to skip those parts, as it was a sure sign of an upcoming boring and useless reminiscence of a time “Before the EMP” from one of the characters.
I was fed up with the past nostalgia and bored out of my mind with the presence and hoped for a future that never came.
September 13, 2017
Getting Out
Ryan Westfield
Another awesome epic adventure you don't want to miss. An emp has downed the whole city that Max lives in. He knows what he needs to do and thats to get out of the city to the old farm house he has out in the country. But first he has to get out of the city quick before he picks up some strays.
Mandy's day is just getting started when she calls out due to a hangover. And her neighbor bugs her about whats going on with the power and electronics. Can her neighbor and her stay protected when it looks like everything is going down hill already.
Georgia knows in her heart whats going on and she is on a mission to get out of town with her two kids before everything hits the fan. Only it seens she may have to tackle a few hurdles before her plans work out.
Can they all survive the end of the world with choas all around them already in a motion.
Ryan Westfield
Another awesome epic adventure you don't want to miss. An emp has downed the whole city that Max lives in. He knows what he needs to do and thats to get out of the city to the old farm house he has out in the country. But first he has to get out of the city quick before he picks up some strays.
Mandy's day is just getting started when she calls out due to a hangover. And her neighbor bugs her about whats going on with the power and electronics. Can her neighbor and her stay protected when it looks like everything is going down hill already.
Georgia knows in her heart whats going on and she is on a mission to get out of town with her two kids before everything hits the fan. Only it seens she may have to tackle a few hurdles before her plans work out.
Can they all survive the end of the world with choas all around them already in a motion.
July 18, 2022
A series of scenes with (mostly) the same character names.
This felt like a series of set pieces that the author wanted t write with no character development or overarching logic to justify them. Characters suddenly realize that they have change of beliefs so that the author gets to their next set pieces. Where do the unmarked military trucks come from? Why are they unmarked? Where Re the rest of the people? Why does Max tell Mandy that she can try faking knowing about using a gun when she has already done that? One week from EMP to the military collapsing into looting gangs that use up their ammo killing needlessly so they can steal things that have no value anymore?
Too much nonsense. This should have gone through some peer review of writers that are not survivalist fanboys.
This felt like a series of set pieces that the author wanted t write with no character development or overarching logic to justify them. Characters suddenly realize that they have change of beliefs so that the author gets to their next set pieces. Where do the unmarked military trucks come from? Why are they unmarked? Where Re the rest of the people? Why does Max tell Mandy that she can try faking knowing about using a gun when she has already done that? One week from EMP to the military collapsing into looting gangs that use up their ammo killing needlessly so they can steal things that have no value anymore?
Too much nonsense. This should have gone through some peer review of writers that are not survivalist fanboys.
October 2, 2020
It has been a while since I read any decent post-apocalyptic fiction. I believe the author did a decent job describing what society may devolve into in such a situation. The author has so far stayed away from Walking Dead and Jericho clones or rip offs, which was well done.
This is fairly decent fiction that is surprisingly devoid of sex in any form. I suspected we were headed for a harem, but the author diverted from that sort of story (although the possibility still exists).
Lots of graphic violence with some profanity, but also light on the profanity. There is some drug use by one of the principle characters.
Getting Out was good enough that I bought the next two in the series.
This is fairly decent fiction that is surprisingly devoid of sex in any form. I suspected we were headed for a harem, but the author diverted from that sort of story (although the possibility still exists).
Lots of graphic violence with some profanity, but also light on the profanity. There is some drug use by one of the principle characters.
Getting Out was good enough that I bought the next two in the series.
October 13, 2017
There were quite a few writing issues with sentence structure, repetition etc. Both Max and Georgia knew "something" was going to happen "someday", but not enough concern to be really prepared. Society went downhill very, very fast and in just a few hours, one character was assaulted. We also have soldiers inexplicably showing up in this town and shooting people indiscriminately and police manning roadblocks though they are not sure why. Of course, escaped prisoners are an issue. Seemed like a kitchen sink ingredient story that did not mesh well together, nor did it hold my interest to the end.
September 18, 2023
GREAT READ
Getting Out: A Post-Apocalyptic EMP Survival Thriller (The EMP Book 1) is a great read for all who enjoy an action pack book with a believable story line. I hope you will enjoy this book as much as I did and that the series continues to be just as good as the first book. We'll done Ryan Westfield.
Getting Out: A Post-Apocalyptic EMP Survival Thriller (The EMP Book 1) is a great read for all who enjoy an action pack book with a believable story line. I hope you will enjoy this book as much as I did and that the series continues to be just as good as the first book. We'll done Ryan Westfield.
June 9, 2019
Great start
A bit more realistic than many EMP scenarios. Will revamp a bit of my survival equip after reading
Starting book 2
A bit more realistic than many EMP scenarios. Will revamp a bit of my survival equip after reading
Starting book 2
September 18, 2017
Title: Getting Out - A Post-Apocalyptic EMP Survival Thriller - The EMP Book 1
Author: Ryan Westfield
Publisher: Ryan Westfield
Published: 9-11-2017
Pages: 254
Genre: Apocalyptic Adventure
Sub-Genre: Men's Adventure, Mystery, Thriller & Suspense, Action & Adventure, Survival
ASIN: B075LB54R
Reviewed For Ryan Westfield
Reviewer: DelAnne
Rating: 4.5 Stars
They've been talking about it for years. Preparing for it. You laughed and scoffed at us. Then in a blink of an eye it has started and only the ones you laughed at are prepared. What happens to civilization when mankind is thrown back to a time before cell phones, internet television and radios. What do you do when the information highway has a multiple pile up. If you are Max you hurry home get your supplies and hope in your old car and head out of the city for the place you set up as your safe zone. One thing you should not do is start picking up stray people and saving others from doped up soused would rapist and thugs; and that only in the first quarter of the book.
Strong character's, well maybe not Chad so much. A fast moving story that is well plotted and written to grab and hold the readers interest from beginning to end. I stand front and center to announce I thoroughly enjoyed reading about Mandy, Max and Georgia and her kids. I am looking forward to seeing were they go from here. Listed as Men's Fiction, I have to disagree. Bo the sexes will find the story riveting and thrilling. I do not recommend this book for young teens or younger because of the violence content.
My rating of "Getting Out - A Post-Apocalyptic EMP Survival Thriller - The EMP Book 1" is 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B075L3B54R/...
B&N Link: Not Available
Books-A-Million Link: Not Available
Google Play Link: Not Available
Indigo Link: Not Available
Kobo Link: Not Available
GoodReads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3...
The Reading Room Link: https://www.facebook.com/permalink.ph...
Twitter Link: https://twitter.com/DelAnne531/status...
Author: Ryan Westfield
Publisher: Ryan Westfield
Published: 9-11-2017
Pages: 254
Genre: Apocalyptic Adventure
Sub-Genre: Men's Adventure, Mystery, Thriller & Suspense, Action & Adventure, Survival
ASIN: B075LB54R
Reviewed For Ryan Westfield
Reviewer: DelAnne
Rating: 4.5 Stars
They've been talking about it for years. Preparing for it. You laughed and scoffed at us. Then in a blink of an eye it has started and only the ones you laughed at are prepared. What happens to civilization when mankind is thrown back to a time before cell phones, internet television and radios. What do you do when the information highway has a multiple pile up. If you are Max you hurry home get your supplies and hope in your old car and head out of the city for the place you set up as your safe zone. One thing you should not do is start picking up stray people and saving others from doped up soused would rapist and thugs; and that only in the first quarter of the book.
Strong character's, well maybe not Chad so much. A fast moving story that is well plotted and written to grab and hold the readers interest from beginning to end. I stand front and center to announce I thoroughly enjoyed reading about Mandy, Max and Georgia and her kids. I am looking forward to seeing were they go from here. Listed as Men's Fiction, I have to disagree. Bo the sexes will find the story riveting and thrilling. I do not recommend this book for young teens or younger because of the violence content.
My rating of "Getting Out - A Post-Apocalyptic EMP Survival Thriller - The EMP Book 1" is 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B075L3B54R/...
B&N Link: Not Available
Books-A-Million Link: Not Available
Google Play Link: Not Available
Indigo Link: Not Available
Kobo Link: Not Available
GoodReads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3...
The Reading Room Link: https://www.facebook.com/permalink.ph...
Twitter Link: https://twitter.com/DelAnne531/status...
September 13, 2017
"You know it's all going to end, don't you?"
Simply written and quick to read, Getting Out follows two main protagonist, Max and Georgia, together with two companions each, who seperately decide to leave their homes for the country after an EMP kills the power and the lights go off. Neither group is properly prepared nor has really planned out what to do but realise that staying in a built up area would be foolish.
This is an unusual book: they are not proper preppers, nor do any of them have special survival skills. Just ordinary people trying to find somewhere to make a new start - whatever that might be. More than anything, it touches on their inner fears and strengths and what, in face of difficulties, they can and cannot do and feels very natural. Surprisingly, perhaps, there is also a feeling of optimism despite the growing difficulties.
My thanks to the author from whom I received an advance copy of this book. This review is voluntarily given.
Simply written and quick to read, Getting Out follows two main protagonist, Max and Georgia, together with two companions each, who seperately decide to leave their homes for the country after an EMP kills the power and the lights go off. Neither group is properly prepared nor has really planned out what to do but realise that staying in a built up area would be foolish.
This is an unusual book: they are not proper preppers, nor do any of them have special survival skills. Just ordinary people trying to find somewhere to make a new start - whatever that might be. More than anything, it touches on their inner fears and strengths and what, in face of difficulties, they can and cannot do and feels very natural. Surprisingly, perhaps, there is also a feeling of optimism despite the growing difficulties.
My thanks to the author from whom I received an advance copy of this book. This review is voluntarily given.
May 6, 2025
An intriguing look at how different people react after the immediate days of an apocalyptic event. While I did like the range of characters we get to follow as time passes (both main characters and occasionally side ones), I did think they fit a bit too closely to predictable stereotypes (an [amateur] apocalypse prepper, someone at their lowest point in their life, single mom with teenage kids [one of which who is social media/tech obssessed], a druggie, etc.). The writing at times is a bit slow; part of the issue being due to scenes being drawn out longer than they need to be or information is repetitively told to us (sometimes within the same paragraph). Another issue I had was the male gaze focus on the women characters (seriously, you're going to focus on their breasts and ass like that when it's uncalled for and unneeded for the plot) and the fat shaming surrounding Chad. Despite its many issues, I found myself captivated with the story and plan on continuing with the series.
January 10, 2018
Really 3.5 stars for me... just some issues with the probability of some things that were described...incidents happened so quickly. Such as a "mystery militia" showing up so soon, killing starting so soon, but Truth be told... it's very possible if and when the "S.H.The Fan". Liked that the book described "real" / everyday people, who weren't really "Preppers", although Max is almost there when the Electro Magnetic Pulse fries all of the city's electronics. (which they soon realize is much further reaching than "local" problem). Book alternates between Max and friends, and "Georgia" , a no-nonsense Mom who does what it take to get try to "get out of Dodge" while she can -- with 2 uncooperative teens to fend for -- with very little food or water or planning. Very Good... Mr. Westfield is very good story-teller. And it could happen. Tomorrow.
August 16, 2018
It's great when you find the right book at the right time. And as I am writing a blog myself that focuses on prepping, its so much fun to see all the things I am researching and writing about put into action in a good story. Water, food, clothing and shelter are just the start. next you must consider what to do about every other person out there trying to do the same thing you are. Staying alive.
It is a not so gentle reminder about how fragile our life is. How we take for granted all the trappings of life. And it makes you really think about what you might do if things fall apart and the shit hits the fan. Are you ready for it? Or will you get left along the roadside unable to fend for yourself?
And guess what. Its a series too. Looks like I have my reading list set for a few weeks!
It is a not so gentle reminder about how fragile our life is. How we take for granted all the trappings of life. And it makes you really think about what you might do if things fall apart and the shit hits the fan. Are you ready for it? Or will you get left along the roadside unable to fend for yourself?
And guess what. Its a series too. Looks like I have my reading list set for a few weeks!
Read
August 19, 2019I really wanted this to be well written and spell binding. The story is one of interest and the writing is okay, but this is not high literature and you shouldn't expect it to be.
Pros:
Plausible outcome of an instant stop of all things electric, electronic, etc.
Fairly likable characters, all interesting and with some unlikable characteristics.
Sets the tone for the series.
Moves quickly.
Cons:
Stupid choices by certain characters - going back to see looting. What? Why would you do that?
Where are the shortwave and ham radios?
Where are the seeds? I saw the word "seed" for the first time on page 240 out of 270.
So much bad luck, so very much.
Am I going to read the next in the series? Probably. I want to know more about what happens to people in a post apocalyptic world. I'll throw any disbelief I have out the window for this series :)
Pros:
Plausible outcome of an instant stop of all things electric, electronic, etc.
Fairly likable characters, all interesting and with some unlikable characteristics.
Sets the tone for the series.
Moves quickly.
Cons:
Stupid choices by certain characters - going back to see looting. What? Why would you do that?
Where are the shortwave and ham radios?
Where are the seeds? I saw the word "seed" for the first time on page 240 out of 270.
So much bad luck, so very much.
Am I going to read the next in the series? Probably. I want to know more about what happens to people in a post apocalyptic world. I'll throw any disbelief I have out the window for this series :)
May 26, 2023
Good. Not a bad start to new series.
Overall I like the book and look forward to book two. The few main characters merged together good in The supporting cast although seeming unlikely fit well. The dialog flowed pretty natural, however you can tell the author struggled to get some of the multi-personalities believable. Overall the plot was basic and simple but there was a few jumps and logic that you thought it's just not what would have happened or you're going beyond a little bit of credibility especially how quickly a reaction the world took. It makes me think that the area of eastern Pennsylvania where the book starts the author really didn't know much about it. That said it's a good simple fun book to read and makes you want to at least find out where the story goes next in book two.
Overall I like the book and look forward to book two. The few main characters merged together good in The supporting cast although seeming unlikely fit well. The dialog flowed pretty natural, however you can tell the author struggled to get some of the multi-personalities believable. Overall the plot was basic and simple but there was a few jumps and logic that you thought it's just not what would have happened or you're going beyond a little bit of credibility especially how quickly a reaction the world took. It makes me think that the area of eastern Pennsylvania where the book starts the author really didn't know much about it. That said it's a good simple fun book to read and makes you want to at least find out where the story goes next in book two.
December 28, 2017
While I wanted to like it, it was just to fragmented for lack of a better word. I do like that nobody is 100% prepared and to save somebody Max jut chucks bags of gear into the parking lot, but why not onto the roof of the jeep? The military seems more like para/militia and to well prepared, of course with a solar flare you have eight minutes of prep time, and they showed up in what seemed like minutes so is this EMP man made? The very idea of idea of driving at night is idiocy, I am not a prepper but in pitch black headlights can be seen for miles away and the accident was so contrived. Compared to The Road, this is not well done. It has potential with some back story, and character development, hope the second book brings some more story into it.
September 14, 2017
What a really good read! This author has real talent as a master wordcrafter.
The story begins with a good introduction to the characters. They all have their good points and bad points, but these very human people seem to bond and pull together in this difficult time.
The exciting action gets started early on and continues throughout the book. The way the characters handle the crisis is believable and reflects how any of us would react in similar situations.
The author then wraps up the book very satisfactorily and leaves the reader glad to have read the book.
I highly recommend this book to everyone who loves a really exciting read!
The story begins with a good introduction to the characters. They all have their good points and bad points, but these very human people seem to bond and pull together in this difficult time.
The exciting action gets started early on and continues throughout the book. The way the characters handle the crisis is believable and reflects how any of us would react in similar situations.
The author then wraps up the book very satisfactorily and leaves the reader glad to have read the book.
I highly recommend this book to everyone who loves a really exciting read!
September 26, 2017
A good book
I really enjoyed reading the book it was very entertaining and flowed well. Events seemed a little accelerated power out less than a day and already mobs and violence and paranoia from small towns. I would think it would take a little longer for people to realize the power outage wasn't temporary. Who knows the human race walks a fine line between normalcy and chaos on a daily basis. When the s--t hits the fan someday only the prepared will have a chance at survival. The ruthless will thrive for a while but likely kill themselves and squander their resources and eventually die off
I really enjoyed reading the book it was very entertaining and flowed well. Events seemed a little accelerated power out less than a day and already mobs and violence and paranoia from small towns. I would think it would take a little longer for people to realize the power outage wasn't temporary. Who knows the human race walks a fine line between normalcy and chaos on a daily basis. When the s--t hits the fan someday only the prepared will have a chance at survival. The ruthless will thrive for a while but likely kill themselves and squander their resources and eventually die off
November 25, 2017
A Softer Flavor of an AMP Event
This post EMP event book has all the bits of harsh reality but not as graphic on the gore score. An EMP strikes and most people are not prepared and do not realize what has occurred while a few characters are prepared and leave the city while they still are able. Heading for a safe place away from the city is the task and goal. Staying alive and safe are also goals. Getting there is only the beginning. Book two will tell what happens next. I liked this down to earth book and enjoyed the read. May it never come to pass!
This post EMP event book has all the bits of harsh reality but not as graphic on the gore score. An EMP strikes and most people are not prepared and do not realize what has occurred while a few characters are prepared and leave the city while they still are able. Heading for a safe place away from the city is the task and goal. Staying alive and safe are also goals. Getting there is only the beginning. Book two will tell what happens next. I liked this down to earth book and enjoyed the read. May it never come to pass!
May 26, 2018
Imagine
Imagine how we would adapt to no electricity, no phones, no planes, no more mass food production, etc. This series has great characters who draw you into their stories about life after an EMP takes almost every convenience away. It doesn't take long before everyone starts thinking every man for himself. Many begin to kill for what they want. Others have to kill to protect their survival. I am looking forward to finding out what happens to these people. I am so glad to have found this great series.
Imagine how we would adapt to no electricity, no phones, no planes, no more mass food production, etc. This series has great characters who draw you into their stories about life after an EMP takes almost every convenience away. It doesn't take long before everyone starts thinking every man for himself. Many begin to kill for what they want. Others have to kill to protect their survival. I am looking forward to finding out what happens to these people. I am so glad to have found this great series.
July 25, 2018
I always like to read about how the world crumbles and think if I would/could do better than the characters I'm reading about. With this book it almost seemed like a comedy of errors. Our characters, I think, totally over estimated their skills. Sure by the end they seemed in an ok place, ready to face the next challenges. Now with that being said, they did 100% better than I could have done. They at least had a plan, even if it was vague, some supplies, even if not quite was needed, and some skills, even if their hearts made decisions they shouldn't have.
April 16, 2019
A mighty fine read....
The story starts right off with the civilization changing event and moves fast & quickly commences on character development. I like this rather than some books that take several chapters to establish the characters and then slowly moves towards the cataclysmic event that changes civilization as we know it. The author knows how to write and shows obvious talent. The story moves along with the characters filling out along the way. A definite great read !
The story starts right off with the civilization changing event and moves fast & quickly commences on character development. I like this rather than some books that take several chapters to establish the characters and then slowly moves towards the cataclysmic event that changes civilization as we know it. The author knows how to write and shows obvious talent. The story moves along with the characters filling out along the way. A definite great read !
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