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Aurora Terminus
The end of the world came quietly, in a breathtaking display of light and color, while everyone stopped and watched, entranced.
And then the lights went out, and death and chaos took over.
A woman went up, high above the fray, and tried to build a life alone from what was left of the world that had been.
A man stayed down, in the midst of the turmoil, and tried to find a home in the world that had become.
But neither life nor home is possible until there is family, until love and trust and hope return.
Until then, there is only survival.
And then the lights went out, and death and chaos took over.
A woman went up, high above the fray, and tried to build a life alone from what was left of the world that had been.
A man stayed down, in the midst of the turmoil, and tried to find a home in the world that had become.
But neither life nor home is possible until there is family, until love and trust and hope return.
Until then, there is only survival.
527 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 7, 2018
14 people are currently reading
118 people want to read
About the author
S.E. Fanetti
2 books36 followersI’m a native Midwesterner transplanted to Northern California, where I live with my husband, youngest son, and assorted cats.
In my day job, I’m an English professor, so I’ve made books and reading my life. I read widely across most genres and, of course, literary fiction and the classics. Taking the leap to write my own fiction and put it out in the world, though—it took me a long time to work up that courage.
I started publishing my own fiction in the romance genre, because that was where my muse took me, and I still write and publish regularly there, under the name Susan Fanetti, with several popular series of MC romance, contemporary romance, and historical romance. But as a reader, my primary interests have always been science fiction and fantasy. I’m especially a fan of writers like Margaret Atwood, Octavia Butler, Neil Gaiman, N.K. Jemisin, Ursula K. Le Guin, George R.R. Martin, and Neal Stephenson. I’m excited to be writing in the SFF world now, with my first post-apocalyptic novel, Aurora Terminus.
My primary focus in any story I write, whatever genre, is the characters. They drive everything about my stories. I want you to know them as well as they know themselves, to care about them like you care about the real people in your lives, to feel their pain when they struggle, their grief when they mourn, and their joy when they overcome. As a reader, I love books that transport me in just that way, even if they break my heart, and as an author, I want readers to feel that same investment when they read my stories.
In my day job, I’m an English professor, so I’ve made books and reading my life. I read widely across most genres and, of course, literary fiction and the classics. Taking the leap to write my own fiction and put it out in the world, though—it took me a long time to work up that courage.
I started publishing my own fiction in the romance genre, because that was where my muse took me, and I still write and publish regularly there, under the name Susan Fanetti, with several popular series of MC romance, contemporary romance, and historical romance. But as a reader, my primary interests have always been science fiction and fantasy. I’m especially a fan of writers like Margaret Atwood, Octavia Butler, Neil Gaiman, N.K. Jemisin, Ursula K. Le Guin, George R.R. Martin, and Neal Stephenson. I’m excited to be writing in the SFF world now, with my first post-apocalyptic novel, Aurora Terminus.
My primary focus in any story I write, whatever genre, is the characters. They drive everything about my stories. I want you to know them as well as they know themselves, to care about them like you care about the real people in your lives, to feel their pain when they struggle, their grief when they mourn, and their joy when they overcome. As a reader, I love books that transport me in just that way, even if they break my heart, and as an author, I want readers to feel that same investment when they read my stories.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
August 1, 2020
AURORA TERMINUS was a book recommended to me ages ago by a friend and one I just kept putting off. Reading friends' favourites is scary, yo. We all know this. So naturally I felt the best time to pick up a post-apocalyptic event story was during.. now. 2020. Making great choices every day, I am.
The end had come, but quietly, even gracefully.
But I have zero regrets. Except for the regret regarding the fact that I waited this long to read this.
The Sunstorm had torn off the fragile veneer of decency and shown most people to be, at best, insular and suspicious, and at worst, bestial and cruel. Whatever bond of humanity still pulled anyone was only strong enough, and elastic enough, to reach the limits of a small group. At best.
This story is something of a mashup between STATION ELEVEN and 28 Days Later (yes, the zombie movie) and yet it's also distinctly it's own. The world ended, not from plague, not from war, or aliens, but from solar flares. Society crumbled with it. And so did humanity; at least for some. The story follows a woman surviving in a cabin off the general radar, on her own, self-sufficient, and a man who has been both a solo wanderer and now finds himself with a group. Their stories play out, then converge, but it's all about the realities of surviving in a world that has turned against its people, and those people who are just trying to go about the rest of the lives, while also surviving those who prefer to do harm to them just for living or having what they don't.
As implied, there is some darkness, some violence, in this story but the gory bits aren’t sensationalized and the more targeted harm is pretty much all done off page.
The world would live on without people. That was the story of the Sunstorm. Not the end of the world. A cataclysm, but not the apocalypse. Simply the end of the human era.
But for all the stark and bleak realities within these pages, it also shines light on hope, on living instead of just surviving, on a possible future. There is healing, love, and dogs. Pretty sure most of my tears spilled over the animals, actually. But the characters of the two legged variety were pretty okay, too. Diana was an absolute force. She's made me realize I don't need (or want) a burly creature as my partner when the end of times (or zombies.. or zombies in the end of times) comes. Give me the person who has well researched what might happen in a fictional universe where everything goes to shit and how to navigate it. Proving that nerds are not only the new sexy.. but the secret to survival.
Jokes aside, this read was totally absorbing (I literally devoured it and stayed up past my bedtime because I refused to put it down), and would definitely recommend for fans of the genre — even if you might want to avoid this kind of book in the immediacy of our own circumstances — and I want to say huge thanks to Paula for the recommendation. Sorry it took me so long!
---
This review can also be found at A Take From Two Cities.
The end had come, but quietly, even gracefully.
But I have zero regrets. Except for the regret regarding the fact that I waited this long to read this.
The Sunstorm had torn off the fragile veneer of decency and shown most people to be, at best, insular and suspicious, and at worst, bestial and cruel. Whatever bond of humanity still pulled anyone was only strong enough, and elastic enough, to reach the limits of a small group. At best.
This story is something of a mashup between STATION ELEVEN and 28 Days Later (yes, the zombie movie) and yet it's also distinctly it's own. The world ended, not from plague, not from war, or aliens, but from solar flares. Society crumbled with it. And so did humanity; at least for some. The story follows a woman surviving in a cabin off the general radar, on her own, self-sufficient, and a man who has been both a solo wanderer and now finds himself with a group. Their stories play out, then converge, but it's all about the realities of surviving in a world that has turned against its people, and those people who are just trying to go about the rest of the lives, while also surviving those who prefer to do harm to them just for living or having what they don't.
As implied, there is some darkness, some violence, in this story but the gory bits aren’t sensationalized and the more targeted harm is pretty much all done off page.
The world would live on without people. That was the story of the Sunstorm. Not the end of the world. A cataclysm, but not the apocalypse. Simply the end of the human era.
But for all the stark and bleak realities within these pages, it also shines light on hope, on living instead of just surviving, on a possible future. There is healing, love, and dogs. Pretty sure most of my tears spilled over the animals, actually. But the characters of the two legged variety were pretty okay, too. Diana was an absolute force. She's made me realize I don't need (or want) a burly creature as my partner when the end of times (or zombies.. or zombies in the end of times) comes. Give me the person who has well researched what might happen in a fictional universe where everything goes to shit and how to navigate it. Proving that nerds are not only the new sexy.. but the secret to survival.
Jokes aside, this read was totally absorbing (I literally devoured it and stayed up past my bedtime because I refused to put it down), and would definitely recommend for fans of the genre — even if you might want to avoid this kind of book in the immediacy of our own circumstances — and I want to say huge thanks to Paula for the recommendation. Sorry it took me so long!
---
This review can also be found at A Take From Two Cities.
April 7, 2018
When I found out one of my favorite authors, Susan Fanetti, was writing a post-apocalyptic novel I was overjoyed. I was ecstatic when I won an ARC!
I love this genre because the scary part to me about an potential apocalypse is what happens to humanity afterward. This book showcased exactly that. Gritty, heartbreaking, and uplifting, Susan Fanetti nailed it with Aurora Terminus.
I love this genre because the scary part to me about an potential apocalypse is what happens to humanity afterward. This book showcased exactly that. Gritty, heartbreaking, and uplifting, Susan Fanetti nailed it with Aurora Terminus.
March 24, 2018
Stunning!
Full review to come.
Full review to come.
April 8, 2018
This was a really good read - a fast-moving and involving story that kept me interested right to the end. I don't mind a decent post-apocalyptic read, and this one is well-written with likeable MCs.
The end of the world (as we know it) comes in the form of massive solar flares that basically destroy all electronics and computerised technology. Like a massive EMP, I suppose. Quite plausible.
The story follows two people - first we meet Diana, who has the good sense to quickly flee the sudden madness and chaos of the city, and head to her parents' retreat in the mountains. Diana has incredible resourcefulness and strength of character, and she manages to make a life for herself and her beloved dog Fiona. Back-to-basics living, but fulfilling and survivable. At times the crazy new world intrudes on her retreat in the worst ways possible, and she has to dramatically defend herself. But she survives, and life goes on. Increasingly lonely, perhaps starting to go a little crazy, but she is alive.
Gus is in Manhattan when the end of the world arrives, and he too flees the city. But he takes a different path, living a nomadic life for several years, sometimes on his own, sometimes spending time with small groups of survivors, but always on the move. Through Gus's story we see something of what America has become. Through his eyes we see the worst of humanity. The crazies, the zealots, the opportunists, the violent aggressors, the power-seekers. We also see some positive aspects and some people who have managed to keep their humanity. But mainly, Gus despairs at this horrid side of the human race.
This earlier part of the book reminded me at times of the iconic Mad Max films, and also of Cormac McCarthy's book The Road. There are also some indications that post-apocalyptic/ zombie-type computer games have influenced the ideas in this book, although it's NOT a zombie book. But the Ferals/Fiends are bad enough!
Eventually Gus and Diana come into contact with each other. Over time Diana's wariness gives way and allows her to open herself up to feelings for another human. This section is nicely done, and the love that grows between them is deep and believable.
The later sections of the book headed in some unexpected directions (for me) and I liked that. Without copping out or making it seem too easy for Diana and Gus, the mood changed to become more positive for mankind's future. I liked the ending of the book (which seemed to be leaving room for a sequel, actually), although I was deeply disappointed that
But if there is an eventual sequel, I would read it. No doubt.
I respect Ms Fanetti even more as a writer now - I admire the way she can change to a new genre and still write a really good book. If you like post-apocalyptic, I recommend this one. It's not a deep hard sci-fi book, but a very readable adventure story exploring a possible future scenario.
The end of the world (as we know it) comes in the form of massive solar flares that basically destroy all electronics and computerised technology. Like a massive EMP, I suppose. Quite plausible.
The story follows two people - first we meet Diana, who has the good sense to quickly flee the sudden madness and chaos of the city, and head to her parents' retreat in the mountains. Diana has incredible resourcefulness and strength of character, and she manages to make a life for herself and her beloved dog Fiona. Back-to-basics living, but fulfilling and survivable. At times the crazy new world intrudes on her retreat in the worst ways possible, and she has to dramatically defend herself. But she survives, and life goes on. Increasingly lonely, perhaps starting to go a little crazy, but she is alive.
Gus is in Manhattan when the end of the world arrives, and he too flees the city. But he takes a different path, living a nomadic life for several years, sometimes on his own, sometimes spending time with small groups of survivors, but always on the move. Through Gus's story we see something of what America has become. Through his eyes we see the worst of humanity. The crazies, the zealots, the opportunists, the violent aggressors, the power-seekers. We also see some positive aspects and some people who have managed to keep their humanity. But mainly, Gus despairs at this horrid side of the human race.
This earlier part of the book reminded me at times of the iconic Mad Max films, and also of Cormac McCarthy's book The Road. There are also some indications that post-apocalyptic/ zombie-type computer games have influenced the ideas in this book, although it's NOT a zombie book. But the Ferals/Fiends are bad enough!
Eventually Gus and Diana come into contact with each other. Over time Diana's wariness gives way and allows her to open herself up to feelings for another human. This section is nicely done, and the love that grows between them is deep and believable.
The later sections of the book headed in some unexpected directions (for me) and I liked that. Without copping out or making it seem too easy for Diana and Gus, the mood changed to become more positive for mankind's future. I liked the ending of the book (which seemed to be leaving room for a sequel, actually), although I was deeply disappointed that
But if there is an eventual sequel, I would read it. No doubt.
I respect Ms Fanetti even more as a writer now - I admire the way she can change to a new genre and still write a really good book. If you like post-apocalyptic, I recommend this one. It's not a deep hard sci-fi book, but a very readable adventure story exploring a possible future scenario.
April 19, 2018
5+ "The Lights at the End" Stars
My knowledge of the post-apocalyptic genre is limited at best but this book really changed the way I feel about it. So starkly arresting in her story telling, S.E. Fanetti's expansive gift with words shines like never before. Aurora Terminus is a harrowing tale of survival.
Driven by the main characters with colorful depictions of the despair and loss shrouding everyone this book will terrify you while it engages you. Fanetti's specific understanding of human nature and the way in which she portrays humanity and how it's balanced on a very fine edge in this story is not only extremely alarming but eerily impressive. The bravery of the characters makes them unequivocally compelling continually moving us forward in the depths of their survival and the breadth of who they'll become. They are each so perfectly suited to the story as usual showcasing Fanetti's excellence at characterization.
I won't ever forget it or the way it's made me think and feel. So much is packed into this book creating an experience you need to read to feel. Raw, emotional, and intelligently written, Aurora Terminus provides such real and acute storytelling in a literal maelstrom of violence you won't have any choice but to feel satisfied. I am in a state of shock and awe unlike any I've felt before after a book.
My knowledge of the post-apocalyptic genre is limited at best but this book really changed the way I feel about it. So starkly arresting in her story telling, S.E. Fanetti's expansive gift with words shines like never before. Aurora Terminus is a harrowing tale of survival.
Driven by the main characters with colorful depictions of the despair and loss shrouding everyone this book will terrify you while it engages you. Fanetti's specific understanding of human nature and the way in which she portrays humanity and how it's balanced on a very fine edge in this story is not only extremely alarming but eerily impressive. The bravery of the characters makes them unequivocally compelling continually moving us forward in the depths of their survival and the breadth of who they'll become. They are each so perfectly suited to the story as usual showcasing Fanetti's excellence at characterization.
I won't ever forget it or the way it's made me think and feel. So much is packed into this book creating an experience you need to read to feel. Raw, emotional, and intelligently written, Aurora Terminus provides such real and acute storytelling in a literal maelstrom of violence you won't have any choice but to feel satisfied. I am in a state of shock and awe unlike any I've felt before after a book.
April 10, 2018
Susan Fanetti is certainly a prolific writer and is not afraid to try new things or rest on her impressive laurels. In Aurora Terminus she turns her hand to the dystopian genre.
Solar flares have triggered the end of life on Earth as we know it and we see this new world primarily through the eyes of Diana and Gus who meet up about six years after the apocalyptic event. Despite the world falling down around them and the usual breakdown of humanity that is a common theme of dystopian novels it is Susan Fanetti's skill in writing the relationship between her characters which is the strength in this novel. It is well written but I think I have watched too much The Walking Dead as quite a lot of the novel reminded me very much of this minus the zombies.
A standalone at present although the final paragraphs do hint at more to come.
3.5 stars
Solar flares have triggered the end of life on Earth as we know it and we see this new world primarily through the eyes of Diana and Gus who meet up about six years after the apocalyptic event. Despite the world falling down around them and the usual breakdown of humanity that is a common theme of dystopian novels it is Susan Fanetti's skill in writing the relationship between her characters which is the strength in this novel. It is well written but I think I have watched too much The Walking Dead as quite a lot of the novel reminded me very much of this minus the zombies.
A standalone at present although the final paragraphs do hint at more to come.
3.5 stars
April 25, 2018
Never has a story so deeply taken root into my subconscious mind.
I have thought about this book all day and all night since I started it.
It’s consuming. It’s core shaking. It’s so close to a likely reality that my brain has had a hard time separating the real life from fiction here.
It’s just so well written.
It’s like a real life modern day Stephen King book come to life. The fear is real, the scenarios are intense, and my emotions are wrecked after reading this.
It’s just so good.
I have thought about this book all day and all night since I started it.
It’s consuming. It’s core shaking. It’s so close to a likely reality that my brain has had a hard time separating the real life from fiction here.
It’s just so well written.
It’s like a real life modern day Stephen King book come to life. The fear is real, the scenarios are intense, and my emotions are wrecked after reading this.
It’s just so good.
May 16, 2021
I was so happy to be selected to receive an ARC of Aurora Terminus and it lived up to my high expectations. It was a fantastic look into what it means to be human and humanity's place in the world. From the broad, bleak perspective to the more hopeful, personal perspective. We are both completely meaningless in the grand scheme of things and all that matters in the lives of those we love.
I'm very much looking forward to the next installment.
I'm very much looking forward to the next installment.
March 25, 2018
5+++ "The Lights at the End" ☆☆☆☆☆
I hope in my children's lifetime that they never have to experience ANYTHING that Diana and others had to. It was a little disturbing to think that it could...at ANY time actually happen. The thing I struggled with was how people lost there humanity, I can see it happening for sure, but reading it and how Diana had to battle and survive was a little bit soul destroying. I truly broke down at 14-15% in, I was a mess, and with every ounce of my being, I loathed those god damned ferals!.
So, Gus. Susan wrote him perfectly for this story. We didn't need a hot head in this situation, we needed someone level headed, a diplomat. I appreciated how he handled Diana with such care. He didn't rush her, he knew, he just knew.
I can honestly say I have not read anything quite like A.T. And I'm extremely grateful to have gotten the chance.
Lights out.....imagine that. It would be utter chaos and bedlam.
#Fiona
#Shrek
#Buddy
#HumansAreShit
#ITrustYou
#TheTimeForDoubtWasOver
#ThatAxe
*Teasers made with purchased pics.
I hope in my children's lifetime that they never have to experience ANYTHING that Diana and others had to. It was a little disturbing to think that it could...at ANY time actually happen. The thing I struggled with was how people lost there humanity, I can see it happening for sure, but reading it and how Diana had to battle and survive was a little bit soul destroying. I truly broke down at 14-15% in, I was a mess, and with every ounce of my being, I loathed those god damned ferals!.
So, Gus. Susan wrote him perfectly for this story. We didn't need a hot head in this situation, we needed someone level headed, a diplomat. I appreciated how he handled Diana with such care. He didn't rush her, he knew, he just knew.
I can honestly say I have not read anything quite like A.T. And I'm extremely grateful to have gotten the chance.
Lights out.....imagine that. It would be utter chaos and bedlam.
#Fiona
#Shrek
#Buddy
#HumansAreShit
#ITrustYou
#TheTimeForDoubtWasOver
#ThatAxe
*Teasers made with purchased pics.
March 19, 2018
I received an ARC of Auroras Terminus and finished in one day. As with most of this author's books do, it hooked me from page 1. I really didn't know what to expect and went it thinking Walking Dead. I was very wrong. It is Apocalyptic, but it's so much more. Diana's and Gus character make you appreciate the determination to survive. This book also gave me new appreciation for the ingenuity of generations that have come before. I truly feel, to read this book is to gain insight into a world of possibilities. I really have no words to describe all the thoughts that this book inspired. I will say if you love Susan Fanetti's romance, and are on the fence about this new genre, just jump. It is vastly different, but you will not be disappointed.
March 21, 2018
I was extremely privileged to have received an arc of this fabulous book. It has been a long time since I have been so captivated by a story. I actually felt I was there living it all along with the characters. The book had great characters, great depth and an amazing story. The anticipation I felt throughout the book was new to me. Never quite felt this way about another book. Susan can do no wrong in my mind. I enjoy all her genres. My favourite book of 2018. Thank you
April 7, 2018
6 amazing stars!!
Aurora Terminus is a story not only of survival, but more importantly of living. It takes place after an event that changes and challenges the people of the world. It is heart wrenching, thoughtful, gritty, heart warming and everything in between. This story has affected me immensely and has had me thinking about it for several days after I have finished it. It captures humanity in its current state perfectly and almost scarily. It makes you want to have a bag prepared just in case. The woman is fierce and brave and strong. The man is compelling and social and tender. The descriptions in this book are stunning and make you feel like you are a part of the story. Simply stated, this book is phenomenal.
I continue to have the conclusion that Susan can write any genre, and write it exceptionally well. I was thrilled to receive an ARC for this book and I highly, highly recommend that everyone read it!
Aurora Terminus is a story not only of survival, but more importantly of living. It takes place after an event that changes and challenges the people of the world. It is heart wrenching, thoughtful, gritty, heart warming and everything in between. This story has affected me immensely and has had me thinking about it for several days after I have finished it. It captures humanity in its current state perfectly and almost scarily. It makes you want to have a bag prepared just in case. The woman is fierce and brave and strong. The man is compelling and social and tender. The descriptions in this book are stunning and make you feel like you are a part of the story. Simply stated, this book is phenomenal.
I continue to have the conclusion that Susan can write any genre, and write it exceptionally well. I was thrilled to receive an ARC for this book and I highly, highly recommend that everyone read it!
May 11, 2018
I feel a little bad writing this, cause honestly, this is a very well done book. It just depressed me to no end.
The h in this goes through so much stuff with rapes and attacks and losing everything including her dog. It is highly believable end of the world fiction, I just did not have a happy time with it. I don't have the tolerance I used to for stories that end on a disconsolate note and to me, though SF tried very hard to convey a sense of renewal and new beginnings, I just felt incredibly horrible for all things the heroine has lost and all the suffering she had to go through.
She was a brilliant heroine, I admired her greatly, I just felt she got totally screwed in the end. Even tho she does meet her great love, I am not sure it was worth it. I wasn't keen on where they ended up either, but the romance was very nice.
So this is probably a case of it is me and not the book, and overall I felt the love, I just did not have a good time with it.
The h in this goes through so much stuff with rapes and attacks and losing everything including her dog. It is highly believable end of the world fiction, I just did not have a happy time with it. I don't have the tolerance I used to for stories that end on a disconsolate note and to me, though SF tried very hard to convey a sense of renewal and new beginnings, I just felt incredibly horrible for all things the heroine has lost and all the suffering she had to go through.
She was a brilliant heroine, I admired her greatly, I just felt she got totally screwed in the end. Even tho she does meet her great love, I am not sure it was worth it. I wasn't keen on where they ended up either, but the romance was very nice.
So this is probably a case of it is me and not the book, and overall I felt the love, I just did not have a good time with it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 23, 2018
Rarely does a book grab me and keep me rooted as much as this one did. Almost immediately I was sucked in and attached to the main female character. Her highs became my highs, her lows became my lows.
Initially I was a bit unsettled when the focus switched to the main male character. His life was differently paced, harsher and definitely more grim. The switch was necessary though to understand the world as it had become.
This book kept me awake at night reading. I just couldn't put it down, though when I did, I dreamt about it! It had my whole body constantly tingling in anticipation while I was reading, anxiously awaiting scenes to play themselves out, my eyes gorging on the beauty of it all. While simultaneously I dreaded the approaching ending.
By the time I put the book down for good I was emotional bankrupt. Everything I had, for a short space of time, went into the book and the characters. Like all brilliant books I felt a sense of grief and loss when I turned the last page. I don't necessarily believe in followups just for the sake of them but I desperately want my friends back!
Whether this fits into your preferred genres or not I challenge you to pick up this book and not be affected by it in someway.
***I won a free ARC on the authors Facebook page***
Initially I was a bit unsettled when the focus switched to the main male character. His life was differently paced, harsher and definitely more grim. The switch was necessary though to understand the world as it had become.
This book kept me awake at night reading. I just couldn't put it down, though when I did, I dreamt about it! It had my whole body constantly tingling in anticipation while I was reading, anxiously awaiting scenes to play themselves out, my eyes gorging on the beauty of it all. While simultaneously I dreaded the approaching ending.
By the time I put the book down for good I was emotional bankrupt. Everything I had, for a short space of time, went into the book and the characters. Like all brilliant books I felt a sense of grief and loss when I turned the last page. I don't necessarily believe in followups just for the sake of them but I desperately want my friends back!
Whether this fits into your preferred genres or not I challenge you to pick up this book and not be affected by it in someway.
***I won a free ARC on the authors Facebook page***
no-dull-mwh-dmh-tstl-unsafe
January 23, 2020No rating.
I read the sample which was four chapters long and the heroine was raped several times. Well written, but ultimately not for me.
I read the sample which was four chapters long and the heroine was raped several times. Well written, but ultimately not for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 2, 2019
Well, SF has done it once again. Wow. This book is an extremely heavy, brutal and honest depiction of what we probably all fear the world would look like, feel like and be like for the survivors of a post-apocalyptic event. I'm going to be honest, I put off reading this because of the topic because I can be a wimp about things like this, however, I really wish I hadn't waited so long.
This book definitely depicts the loneliness, the heartache, the struggles, the tragic, the barbaric.... so it was hard to read at times. However, what you find when you continue to read the book is that SF balances it with the parts we don't think about when we imagine this happening - the love, the helpers, the strength, the defenders, the courage, the hope, the selflessness, the communities, and the intrinsic GOOD we all hope wouldn't be lost in ourselves and in others.
Additionally, the main leads in this book - I seriously adore them. The woman, Diana, is one of the strongest female leads I've read about. She's a fighter, beyond clever and inventive, lives with such heart even when hers is broken or mending, and never gives up, even when most would. And Gus is seriously the best man ever - never losing his moral compass, full of compassion and empathy, always maintaining his integrity and unafraid to fight for life or love.
I can't recommend this book enough! ❤
This book definitely depicts the loneliness, the heartache, the struggles, the tragic, the barbaric.... so it was hard to read at times. However, what you find when you continue to read the book is that SF balances it with the parts we don't think about when we imagine this happening - the love, the helpers, the strength, the defenders, the courage, the hope, the selflessness, the communities, and the intrinsic GOOD we all hope wouldn't be lost in ourselves and in others.
Additionally, the main leads in this book - I seriously adore them. The woman, Diana, is one of the strongest female leads I've read about. She's a fighter, beyond clever and inventive, lives with such heart even when hers is broken or mending, and never gives up, even when most would. And Gus is seriously the best man ever - never losing his moral compass, full of compassion and empathy, always maintaining his integrity and unafraid to fight for life or love.
I can't recommend this book enough! ❤
June 13, 2019
4.5 - 5.0 ⭐
This was an excellent read. The story is about Diana, a video game designer, who was knowledgeable enough to understand what the intense solar flares and EMP would do to the planet. She didn't wait for the power, electronics and society to fail. She packed a survival pack and headed to her family's cabin in the Sierra Nevada mountains. There she's survived alone by keeping to a strict work schedule.
Gus, a violinist, was in New York City when the world changed. He's been on the road for years.
I'll admit this wasn't an easy book to read there are triggers galore. Not all survivors are friendly. I think Diana has a harder time of it. She forgets what it's like to be human. Gus has suffered his own losses
I had trouble putting the book down at night and stayed up way too late to read. It was very gritty at times.
This was an excellent read. The story is about Diana, a video game designer, who was knowledgeable enough to understand what the intense solar flares and EMP would do to the planet. She didn't wait for the power, electronics and society to fail. She packed a survival pack and headed to her family's cabin in the Sierra Nevada mountains. There she's survived alone by keeping to a strict work schedule.
Gus, a violinist, was in New York City when the world changed. He's been on the road for years.
I'll admit this wasn't an easy book to read there are triggers galore. Not all survivors are friendly. I think Diana has a harder time of it. She forgets what it's like to be human. Gus has suffered his own losses
I had trouble putting the book down at night and stayed up way too late to read. It was very gritty at times.
April 29, 2018
Brilliantly written, thought provoking and epic! Fanetti is a gifted storyteller and Aurora Terminus captivated me from the beginning and kept me enthralled to the end. I hope this is the start to a new series because there are so many stories this new world could tell!
May 27, 2018
This author could pen a dictionary and I would read it. This story was fantastic... it was a different type of dystopian novel. I hope Ms. Fanetti turns this standalone into a series.
April 7, 2018
S.E. Fanetti brings an original angle to the trope of surviving the apocalypse in her pulse-pounding debut novel Aurora Terminus. In an unflinching refreshing style, this harrowing tale of profound upheaval is so unsettling that it just might make you assemble your own bug-out bag.
Using her wealth of storytelling talent, the perfect flow of Fanetti's writing depicts the harsh reality of survival after the collapse of civilization as we know it. In this character-driven tale, the catastrophic event is a spectacular solar storm causing an EMP. With no villains to divert us from her two protagonists, it's everything I love best about this genre. Survival. Making a life and how. Fanetti's brilliance in the contrast of her characters experience, one traveling, meeting other people, experiencing the brutality of the new world, and one living alone secluded high on a mountain is powerful.
The mental decline isolation brings was potent. Quietly explosive, Fanetti describes the decline of the woman's psyche with realism and delicacy. When the two meet, their interactions are searingly poignant evoking a deep feeling in the reader, at times bringing me to tears.
Aurora Terminus lingers, beautifully told, believable and satisfying. This novel consumed me. I hope she returns to this world often. It will be on my Top 5 best books of 2018.
Using her wealth of storytelling talent, the perfect flow of Fanetti's writing depicts the harsh reality of survival after the collapse of civilization as we know it. In this character-driven tale, the catastrophic event is a spectacular solar storm causing an EMP. With no villains to divert us from her two protagonists, it's everything I love best about this genre. Survival. Making a life and how. Fanetti's brilliance in the contrast of her characters experience, one traveling, meeting other people, experiencing the brutality of the new world, and one living alone secluded high on a mountain is powerful.
The mental decline isolation brings was potent. Quietly explosive, Fanetti describes the decline of the woman's psyche with realism and delicacy. When the two meet, their interactions are searingly poignant evoking a deep feeling in the reader, at times bringing me to tears.
Aurora Terminus lingers, beautifully told, believable and satisfying. This novel consumed me. I hope she returns to this world often. It will be on my Top 5 best books of 2018.
April 28, 2018
Dystopian tale with a twist: the future is already here
In this dystopian, post-apocalyptic novel the end of the world does not come with a bang, but rather in the form of the title giving Aurora Terminus, lights that can be seen from everywhere and not only close to the poles. The cause are massive solar flares that act like sort of giant EMPs that knock out all electronic devices and all the machines that run on electricity. So the world is not immediately destroyed, but the breakdown of technology leads to vast radioactive contamination of large parts of the world, everywhere that nuclear plants implode as their cooling systems fail. The premise of the story is not completely outside the realm of possibility as the author provides a citation to a NASA article that discusses the possible implications that a solar storm of hitherto unprecedented magnitude could have.
Even though the sun flares did not wreck destruction of apocalyptic proportions beyond what is described above, the world has been catapulted back at least two centuries and all semblance of civilization has broken down. The story follows two individuals, Diana and Gus, and how they deal with living in this new reality. At some point their paths cross and out of necessity (at least in the beginning), they start a relationship. So that is sort of the “romance” portion of the book, and though sweet, it is not the main focus of the story. But having found each other also allows them to hang on (and regain the lost part) of their humanity.
Like most (if not all) dystopian fiction, this is not really so much about an outside catastrophe; the sun flares serve more as a catalytic event that heralds the disintegration of society on all levels and the breakdown of civilization. The world is thrown into quasi-anarchic conditions, into a Hobbesian state of nature, where it is mostly war of all against all and where any display of empathy can get you killed.
It is also clear that the dystopian setting functions as a thin veil for what is actually social criticism at heart: the narcissistic egotism of our time embodied by a system of corporate capitalism where the few control all the resources and the rest are left to fend for themselves or just to die. The dehumanizing treatment of the most vulnerable members of society, the cynical disregard of the importance of art/music/literature and of culture in general for the functioning of are becoming part of our lived reality.
The book does offer an alternative model, a communal, almost socialist form of living together, each member contributing as much as they can and with resources allocated based on need. A nice enough idea, although I feel a bit disturbed that this vision of a peaceful community relies so much on a nostalgic and highly romanticized view of the past. Because the time period alluded to – the Renaissance – was for most people actually one of the worst times to live in, just ask any historian of the Early Modern Period!
The most disquieting realization, though, is recognizing that we are already partly living in a society like the one described in this book, and all without the soothing intervention of sun flares, so the relative small likelihood of such a solar storm happening provides little comfort.
So “only” 4 ½ stars from me for romanticizing a troubled passed instead of imagining a different future…
In this dystopian, post-apocalyptic novel the end of the world does not come with a bang, but rather in the form of the title giving Aurora Terminus, lights that can be seen from everywhere and not only close to the poles. The cause are massive solar flares that act like sort of giant EMPs that knock out all electronic devices and all the machines that run on electricity. So the world is not immediately destroyed, but the breakdown of technology leads to vast radioactive contamination of large parts of the world, everywhere that nuclear plants implode as their cooling systems fail. The premise of the story is not completely outside the realm of possibility as the author provides a citation to a NASA article that discusses the possible implications that a solar storm of hitherto unprecedented magnitude could have.
Even though the sun flares did not wreck destruction of apocalyptic proportions beyond what is described above, the world has been catapulted back at least two centuries and all semblance of civilization has broken down. The story follows two individuals, Diana and Gus, and how they deal with living in this new reality. At some point their paths cross and out of necessity (at least in the beginning), they start a relationship. So that is sort of the “romance” portion of the book, and though sweet, it is not the main focus of the story. But having found each other also allows them to hang on (and regain the lost part) of their humanity.
Like most (if not all) dystopian fiction, this is not really so much about an outside catastrophe; the sun flares serve more as a catalytic event that heralds the disintegration of society on all levels and the breakdown of civilization. The world is thrown into quasi-anarchic conditions, into a Hobbesian state of nature, where it is mostly war of all against all and where any display of empathy can get you killed.
It is also clear that the dystopian setting functions as a thin veil for what is actually social criticism at heart: the narcissistic egotism of our time embodied by a system of corporate capitalism where the few control all the resources and the rest are left to fend for themselves or just to die. The dehumanizing treatment of the most vulnerable members of society, the cynical disregard of the importance of art/music/literature and of culture in general for the functioning of are becoming part of our lived reality.
The book does offer an alternative model, a communal, almost socialist form of living together, each member contributing as much as they can and with resources allocated based on need. A nice enough idea, although I feel a bit disturbed that this vision of a peaceful community relies so much on a nostalgic and highly romanticized view of the past. Because the time period alluded to – the Renaissance – was for most people actually one of the worst times to live in, just ask any historian of the Early Modern Period!
The most disquieting realization, though, is recognizing that we are already partly living in a society like the one described in this book, and all without the soothing intervention of sun flares, so the relative small likelihood of such a solar storm happening provides little comfort.
So “only” 4 ½ stars from me for romanticizing a troubled passed instead of imagining a different future…
July 3, 2018
My review is here
Aurora Terminus by S.E. Fanetti
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Rarely does a book grab me and keep me rooted as much as this one did. Almost immediately I was sucked in and attached to the main female character. Her highs became my highs, her lows became my lows.
Initially I was a bit unsettled when the focus switched to the main male character. His life was differently paced, harsher and definitely more grim. The switch was necessary though to understand the world as it had become.
This book kept me awake at night reading. I just couldn't put it down, though when I did, I dreamt about it! It had my whole body constantly tingling in anticipation while I was reading, anxiously awaiting scenes to play themselves out, my eyes gorging on the beauty of it all. While simultaneously I dreaded the approaching ending.
By the time I put the book down for good I was emotional bankrupt. Everything I had, for a short space of time, went into the book and the characters. Like all brilliant books I felt a sense of grief and loss when I turned the last page. I don't necessarily believe in followups just for the sake of them but I desperately want my friends back!
Whether this fits into your preferred genres or not I challenge you to pick up this book and not be affected by it in someway.
***I won a free ARC on the authors Facebook page***
View all my reviews
Aurora Terminus by S.E. FanettiMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
Rarely does a book grab me and keep me rooted as much as this one did. Almost immediately I was sucked in and attached to the main female character. Her highs became my highs, her lows became my lows.
Initially I was a bit unsettled when the focus switched to the main male character. His life was differently paced, harsher and definitely more grim. The switch was necessary though to understand the world as it had become.
This book kept me awake at night reading. I just couldn't put it down, though when I did, I dreamt about it! It had my whole body constantly tingling in anticipation while I was reading, anxiously awaiting scenes to play themselves out, my eyes gorging on the beauty of it all. While simultaneously I dreaded the approaching ending.
By the time I put the book down for good I was emotional bankrupt. Everything I had, for a short space of time, went into the book and the characters. Like all brilliant books I felt a sense of grief and loss when I turned the last page. I don't necessarily believe in followups just for the sake of them but I desperately want my friends back!
Whether this fits into your preferred genres or not I challenge you to pick up this book and not be affected by it in someway.
***I won a free ARC on the authors Facebook page***
View all my reviews
October 31, 2023
I should just start this off by saying that I don't read post-apocalyptic/romance books because I usually get lost in not really understanding what is going on. Also, you know all that doom and gloom.
I picked this one up based on an Instagram post and a whim.
Man was it good, so, so good. This was written in 2018, pre-Covid. Without just living though Covid I would have had more trouble believing the "end of humanity" aspect of the storyline.
What I will say is anyone who enjoys a good story and great characters, regardless of the genre, then this is for you. This is a great example of when something it well written then it well enjoyed.
Below is the link to the later released version under Susan Fanetti.
Aurora Terminus
I picked this one up based on an Instagram post and a whim.
Man was it good, so, so good. This was written in 2018, pre-Covid. Without just living though Covid I would have had more trouble believing the "end of humanity" aspect of the storyline.
What I will say is anyone who enjoys a good story and great characters, regardless of the genre, then this is for you. This is a great example of when something it well written then it well enjoyed.
Below is the link to the later released version under Susan Fanetti.
Aurora Terminus
April 9, 2018
Susan Fanetti has shown us yet again that she truly can write any genre to perfection. Post-apocalyptic is not a genre I have read much in the recent past, although King's The Stand, is one of my favorite books of all time. This book is all-consuming. The story how the two main characters survive and then thrive when they make a life together. Gus is a bit of an unlikely alpha male who was a concert violinist "before", but he really is an alpha, no doubt. Diana was a video game writer who abandoned med school to code. She survived alone for years and when she finally meets Gus, she is well on her way to losing her grip. He's injured and her med school training saves him physically while he saves her mind. While I wouldn't call this a romance, it's a beautiful love story of best kind. And the dogs! I almost forgot the dogs! They are one of the best parts.
August 22, 2024
This was a really good gritty post apocalypse story, I really enjoyed it and hope more stories are written for this world. It was very bleak in parts but I loved how the author brought the MMC and FMC together and I enjoyed reading their stories before they met. As I said I would love more written in this world and hope we get it!
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There were alot of triggers though and I haven't really seen anyone one else say them in their reviews, most of these are not written super descriptive but they are still present and I was a bit blind sided, so spoiler but for those that need it these are the triggers that I thought.
Rape and sexual assult of FMC
On page death of a pet
On page death of MMC first partner and horrific labour
Infant death
Dark themes (death, injury, population dying, radiation issues etc)
Mental heath
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There were alot of triggers though and I haven't really seen anyone one else say them in their reviews, most of these are not written super descriptive but they are still present and I was a bit blind sided, so spoiler but for those that need it these are the triggers that I thought.
Rape and sexual assult of FMC
On page death of a pet
On page death of MMC first partner and horrific labour
Infant death
Dark themes (death, injury, population dying, radiation issues etc)
Mental heath
April 9, 2018
A must read
SE Fanetti has written words that will make you take a good hard long look at yourself. One can't help but wonder who or what you would be if ever put in the same circumstances. This author has shown us humanity in its every form. Makes you consider what you have to contribute to a society. All the feelings of The Road by Cormac McCarthy but so much more. This is one of those books that will take days to digest.
SE Fanetti has written words that will make you take a good hard long look at yourself. One can't help but wonder who or what you would be if ever put in the same circumstances. This author has shown us humanity in its every form. Makes you consider what you have to contribute to a society. All the feelings of The Road by Cormac McCarthy but so much more. This is one of those books that will take days to digest.
April 10, 2018
The wait is over
I have been waiting on this book since Susan Fanetti revealed she was writing it, and it's definitely worth the wait. I love a good survival story but this is so much more. The author writes with such depth that you feel a connection to the characters and their struggle to survive this catastrophic event. This story is fascinating and well written. I hope she writes more in this genre.
I have been waiting on this book since Susan Fanetti revealed she was writing it, and it's definitely worth the wait. I love a good survival story but this is so much more. The author writes with such depth that you feel a connection to the characters and their struggle to survive this catastrophic event. This story is fascinating and well written. I hope she writes more in this genre.
April 11, 2018
You stepped it up 5+ stars
SF you totally surprised me this was a great read and not to be missed by followers of your books. This book takes you on a journey and puts S.E. Fanetti on a whole new level as a writer. I hope that you write more in this new world. If you have never read this author this book is a MUST read!!!!
SF you totally surprised me this was a great read and not to be missed by followers of your books. This book takes you on a journey and puts S.E. Fanetti on a whole new level as a writer. I hope that you write more in this new world. If you have never read this author this book is a MUST read!!!!
April 13, 2018
Good solid read about post EMPish disaster.
I will read anything by Fanetti just because she wrote it. This is a break from her norm, but the rich writing and character development is all there. The new world is slow to regroup and perhaps that concept is why I gave it a 4 instead of a 5. It aS not the execution. Which was flawless. Highly recommend.
I will read anything by Fanetti just because she wrote it. This is a break from her norm, but the rich writing and character development is all there. The new world is slow to regroup and perhaps that concept is why I gave it a 4 instead of a 5. It aS not the execution. Which was flawless. Highly recommend.
April 18, 2018
So different
I went into this thinking i wouldn't like this and was pleasantly shocked. I was going to read because I read everything else she puts out, right? Once Diana and Gus got together I couldn't absorb this story fast enough. Congratulations doing great in this genre too. Can't wait to see what's up next. Loved Shrek and adored Fiona.
I went into this thinking i wouldn't like this and was pleasantly shocked. I was going to read because I read everything else she puts out, right? Once Diana and Gus got together I couldn't absorb this story fast enough. Congratulations doing great in this genre too. Can't wait to see what's up next. Loved Shrek and adored Fiona.
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