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A CITY ON FIRE. AN UNPARALLELED CATASTROPHE. UNRIVALED HEROISM.

The Alt Apocalypse explores survival under the most extreme circumstances, but with a twist (and no cliff-hangers).
This series, which can be read in any order, features the same core characters in each complete story. But every book dunks them into a new, alternate apocalypse; a nuclear holocaust, an earthquake, a flood, a wildfire, a hurricane, a plague, and even zombies.

Different heroes will emerge in each novel. Different characters will survive and perish. Your favorite character dies in one book? He or she will be back in the next. In the end you'll unwind the loose thread that connects every character and every stand-alone story.

In Lit, Abrahams tells the story of a couple on a camping trip to the Angeles National Forest, a Los Angeles Firefighter, a lonely fry cook, and a group of college students who struggle to escape and survive in southern California after an unprecedented outbreak of wild and urban fires.

Can they escape the flames? How will they survive? What will it take? 

227 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 8, 2018

227 people are currently reading
94 people want to read

About the author

Tom Abrahams

71 books343 followers
Tom Abrahams is an Emmy and Edward R. Murrow award winning television journalist and member of International Thriller Writers.

He is also a Kindle Unlimited All-Star, an Audible 5 Star Favorite, and author of more than forty novels.

He writes in several genres including dystopian, sci-fi techno-thriller, post-apocalyptic, and political thrillers.

The dramatic rights for his "A Dark World" trilogy are optioned for television and film.

He's married with two children and lives in Southeast Texas.

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5 stars
119 (39%)
4 stars
95 (31%)
3 stars
73 (24%)
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15 (4%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
Profile Image for Chessy The Cat.
340 reviews28 followers
July 27, 2018
Fires have broken out all over and around the Las Angeles area. Southern California has never seen so much devastation. As soon as one fire seems to be under control it jumps to another set of buildings or stands of trees. Can the firefighters survive to put them all out? How many folks will die trying to escape?

Abrahams second novel in The Alt Apocalypse, Lit tells the story of a group of people from different walks of life and areas around the fires and how they cope or don’t. These are the same folks from Ash and will continue to experience different apocalyptic events throughout the series.

Each book in the series is a standalone tale. Seeing how your favorite characters handle the pressures of the new situation showcases their strengths and their weaknesses. And, it could make you cry.

5 out of 5 stars.
Profile Image for Brian's Book Blog.
805 reviews62 followers
July 25, 2018
I Flew Through This Like A Wildfire

Lit, the second book in the Alt Apocalypse series by Tom Abrahams throws some of the same characters into a totally new situation.  What I like the most about the series as a whole so far is that you find new heroes and new favorites in each and every book.

When watching the wildfires this year in California and other regions - I often wondered why fire wasn't as often covered in post-apocalyptic books. I've read a few where it was just one of the problems - but none where it was the main issue that people were dealing with. Whether it came from a bomb or just from an errant campfire it is definitely something that threatens human life and can make living terribly difficult.

There's something about the familiarity with a character that makes curveballs so hard to see coming.  Someone who was strong in book one might not be able to cope in book two. A fire might totally destroy a stockpile where an EMP would have no effect on it.  I just love that about these books.  I feel like Abrahams is onto something here and I hope that a whole new group of people read these and get interested in the Post-Apocalyptic genre.

Lit itself was something that I could not put down. I voraciously read it over a 24 hour period - only stopping to sleep and work.  I started it the night it was released and finished it later the next day before I went to bed (yes, I stayed up to finish it).

The way that the first was written about made it so believable.  The characters (selfish and selfless ones, I won't call anyone out specifically) mostly did what you would expect but Abrahams wrote it in such a way that it still made me emotional when bad things happened.

I didn't wanna point any one person or group out - but the way that Abrahams wrote about the wildfire firefighters in Lit made me proud to support his work.  He knows that these brave men and women go out there and literally jump into the fire to try and save others.  He wrote about them in such a way that you felt like you knew them but also felt relieved they were on your side.

The worst part about this book is that I want to read the other ones even more.  When I finished the first book, I knew it was good and I knew that I enjoyed it.  But now that I know how the series is with two books out - I cannot wait for Torrent to come out.  Water is the most destructive force on the planet.  I can't wait to see how that one works out.

Overall, I loved the one.  It pulled me in from the opening scene (a fire surrounding a campsite) to the very last scene (I won't mention what happened, but I literally sighed relief like it was a real thing). We are in for something amazing with this series.
Profile Image for Patrick S..
485 reviews29 followers
August 11, 2018
The second book in an interesting series, the first book started with a bang with nuclear war and this book follows it up with a CA wild fire of massive proportion. Again, Abrahams does a great job with the characters. You learn a few new tidbits about the reoccurring characters that are in this series. My only problem is that I kind of forget who is a main character and who's a supporting character. Especially since some of the main characters died early in book one I wasn't sure who they were by name yet.

The story is fine however the scope is really hard to gauge. Since I'm not from CA maybe that is why as I don't know the landmarks or scope. I will say there are a couple points where the story kind of anticipated some of my critiques of the story. With nuclear war, that's on a global scale. However, with a wildfire, it's really only LA that's affected. A character actually makes that point too which adds to that person's character detail. Another items is that I get the wild fire happens in the forest but then some salon explodes and LA is in flames. I couldn't really get a sense of timing here and there isn't an explanation of how any of it happen or if it was related. There's a character who has an internal thought that kind of states this as well. I do have to say it's a little bit not satisfying to get a hint of it. Like, am I suppose to assume the wild fire had spread and taken out the building or are they two separate events that may have had terroristic intentions?

Again, the story starts with the event but it didn't feel as if characters were really making choices a lot. It seemed like they were reacting to other characters or just following along. Even still; enjoyed the book, enjoying the series, and can't wait for the next one. Final Grade - B+
Profile Image for Joanna.
187 reviews7 followers
August 7, 2018
The idea of this series is brilliant. Each standalone book features the same characters in alternate apocalyptic situations. It reminds me a bit of American Horror Story where roughly the same actors play different characters from season-to-standalone-season. That TV show is popular for a reason, and I can see Tom Abrahams's Alt Apocalypse series experiencing a lot of popularity for its premise alone.

The apocalyptic event begins immediately in Lit. If you are a reader who enjoys a lot of action, this installment hits the mark.

A couple of the characters died pretty much immediately (I do not think I am spoiling anything with this comment as the series promises there will be deaths), so we did not get to know them at all. I think it would have been effective for Abrahams to dedicate some pages for us to get to know the characters before the wildfires hit. That being said, I think you will more fully appreciate the characters if you read the other books in the series.

I also feel like I need to become more prepared for an apocalyptic event, so, if that was part of the author's goal, the desired outcome was achieved!

Kevin Pierce narrated the many different perspectives well. He has a good voice for this book!

Thank you to the narrator for giving me a copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for RJ.
2,044 reviews13 followers
August 6, 2018
Abrahams presents a new concept for the apocalypse genre. Each book finds the same characters in different apocalyptic scenarios with potentially different results. I didn’t realize immediately that each book represented a particular apocalyptic setting in which all the characters were involved with. Hence book one Ash, focuses on nuclear fallout where book two Lit, is about out-of-control wildfires. Maybe other folks didn’t get it right away either. Duh! Lit is an exciting yet morose and emotional tale of courage, fear, perseverance and suffering. As the story continues, the fires spread and converge with each other, the stories of those that survived and those that didn’t became more real to me. I found myself tensing occasionally and a few times felt a lump in my throat. The writing is exceptional having the ability to convey the emotions of first responders, fire fighters and survivors. Kevin Pierce is outstanding as usual. This audiobook was given by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review via Audiobook Boom.
670 reviews9 followers
August 24, 2018
The ides behind this series is fabulous, this is the second book in the series and it was both wonderful and weird to see the same characters go through a different apocalyptic event and see how the different strengths played out. I'm loving the concept and I can't wait for the next book so I can see what happens in the other world ending events.

I loved getting to know the characters more in this book, the different situation causes different decisions and that tells a lot about who someone is.

Beautifully written this book starts with a bang on page one and it doesn't slow down. If you liked book one in the series you should definitely read this one too, and if you're new to the series these books can be read in any order.

The narration is excellent, the delivery is dynamic and helps to carry the emotions and tension in the story, the character voices are clear and recognizable.

I received a free copy of this book from the author and/or narrator and/or publisher and I voluntarily wrote this honest review.
Profile Image for Ryan H.
232 reviews3 followers
September 14, 2018
Holy smokes literally! This book was absolutely fantastic. The second book in a series, but the awesome thing about the series is it’s the same characters slipped into different situations and the first book has no impact on the second. This is quickly becoming one of my favourite series. This was very innovative and timely given what was going on this summer throughout North America. The writing was very descriptive and gave you quite a picture of what was happening throughout the book. The characters are what drive this book as well. You get to know them but at the same time they’re different from the first book in someways. Just another awesome adventure written by this author. I listen to the audiobook and the voice of the apocalypse comes through again. Kevin Pearce performs this one and it is exactly what you have come to expect from him. There is a whole lot to like about this one I suggest everyone get into the series quickly! I was provided a free copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review from audiobook boom. This in no way affected my opinion of this work.
Profile Image for Liz Mandeville.
347 reviews19 followers
August 31, 2023
Lit is the story of a California wildfire that quickly spreads, causing apocalyptic conditions for thousands all over the state.
Lit is the second in Tom Abrahams “Alt Apocalypse” series. The same characters populate each of the 5 books in the series and survive (or don’t) with varying levels of success, heroism or stupidity.
Although this is a very unique take on the apocalypse, 5 separate stories of 5 different apocalyptic scenarios, I found myself becoming frustrated with the characters. They fell asleep, were disbelieving or froze at the most bizarre times. It seemed as though they’d never thought about what they would do if confronted by a scenario that unfolds annually in California. Other than that, these first two books have been entertaining and suspense filled. A refreshing change from the usual post apocalyptic fiction.
484 reviews2 followers
September 3, 2018
This is my first read/listen in the series, and I can't wait to get the other! Such an interesting idea! As a novice writer, I've thought about this, but never attempted it, and this was nicely done! I love apocalyptic settings, so this was a no-brainer for me. I love finding new ways to tell stories, and this definitely inspires me to think outside the box. I loved the characters, and the idea of not knowing who gets what in each book/story is freaking cool. Definitely worked for me, really enjoyed both writing and narration. Want more!
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
Profile Image for Pam Shelton-Anderson.
1,965 reviews67 followers
December 8, 2018
I really like the concept of a different scenario each book and this one had the more unique disaster of out-of-control wildfire. The fact this was written before the recent terrible and tragic fires in southern California makes it even more amazing. I liked the characters in the various scenarios for the most part and the heroic efforts of ordinary persons and the first responders when the situation called for it. It occurs in a relatively short span of time though hits that the recovery could be difficult.
28 reviews
July 18, 2018
WOW! Another great tale by Tom Abraham’s!!

Great characters, great settings, action abounds, and realistic scenarios! What more could anyone ask for??!!

As a 35 year career urban firefighter/Paramedic, a huge “THANK YOU” to Tom Abrahams for providing a realistic glimpse into OUR world!!

And, he is absolutely correct, an “apocalypse” is happening to someone, somewhere, even as I type this!

Looking forward to his next endeavor!!

JMW
DD12
Profile Image for Michael  Keller.
940 reviews11 followers
April 19, 2021
Only you can prevent forest fires!

Every SoCal's nightmare, the annual fire season is more terrifying than the shaking, pounding earthquakes that also threaten the idealized lifestyles of the dream state citizens. This 2020 season was one of the worst in history with a huge portion of the western United States burning. The loss of life and properties was staggering and Lit brought it all home. The characters are all familiar yet so totally different, like dressing up for a party and finding it to be come as you are.

The subject of this series is Alt Apocalypse, a mixed bag of disasters - some natural, some not, all terrifying, all disrupting life in the most threatening ways. Just to mix it up and keep it interesting, most of the same characters appear in each book, yet they're all different. The same characters, different roles. I wasn't sure how that was going to work and if I would enjoy it, but I really did! Like watching a movie with your favorite actors in roles so out of character that it's like watching different people. It's unique, it can be puzzling, but I enjoyed the storyline in Lit, even though fires terrify me! And Lit pulled no punches! It is an amazingly unique treatment of the genre.
216 reviews4 followers
July 31, 2021
I was not aware before starting this series that all of the books have the same characters but takes them through different scenarios, alternate realities. This one has them trying to stay alive while Los Angeles is burning. Another great story!
The one thing I have not added to the reviews of books by Tom is that he seems to have a knack of showing us the humanity and the human condition of his characters. I like the way his characters come to life!
Profile Image for Shanna Tidwell.
742 reviews6 followers
July 31, 2018
This one was even better than the first. It brought about more emotions and feelings. It seemed real.
Tom Abrahams is an excellent story teller and he knows how to draw you in. This is a wonderful series.
Kevin Pierce is my favorite narrator. He is amazing.

I was voluntarily provided this review copy at no charge by the author, publisher and or narrator.
549 reviews6 followers
August 2, 2018
I didn't find this story as compelling as the previous book in this series. The characters weren't as well developed and it just didn't seem all that realistic. Kevin Pierce delivered his customary excellent performance, but I just couldn't get into this story.

NOTE: I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
Profile Image for Marilyn.
49 reviews3 followers
August 3, 2018
Awesome!

As promised, same characters in a different SHTF situation. What I didn’t expect was, it’s also in the same location. This book held my attention from the first paragraph. Although, it is the second book, it can be read and understood without having read the previous book. It is a fast, realistic read. Can’t wait to see what happens in the next book!✌🏼
24 reviews
December 30, 2018
Good book better ending.

This is the second book in a four book set. They are all about world endings. This one is very good and was apprapoe with the fires CA has had this year and last year. It is a good story and well written. Abrahams is a very talented author and tells a excellent story that keeps you turning pages until done.
Profile Image for Red.
503 reviews7 followers
January 19, 2021
I am really surprised at how much I enjoyed this book. The style of the series is so unique. Basically, it's the same story with basically the same people but totally different. I believe you definitely need to read book 1 first, but maybe not. I downloaded book 3 even before I finished this one. Tom Abrahams has been added to my favorite authors list and I can't wait to read more.
Profile Image for AnnA Helms.
128 reviews1 follower
April 1, 2021
Fires are out of control in SoCal. Starting with a drought the forest is a tinder box. Sleeping campers are driven into the Angelos National Forest in front of the flames. Inside the city a nail saloon next to an alcohol store goes up and rapidly jumps out of control. Some people rise to the occasion others wander aimlessly trying to avoid the smoke and flames.
Some people are beginning to have a sense of Deja Vu when meeting others on the road. After all they have meant before.
Profile Image for Ebony Irby.
360 reviews4 followers
May 15, 2021
And ANOTHER 5-Star read from Tom Abrahams! This time a wildfire rips through downtown California, and sends the natives scurrying. From the description of the initial nail salon incident, to the explosion on campus, this was a binge read for me! I couldn’t get through it fast enough! So excited to start the next book in the series (Torrent).
100 reviews3 followers
July 20, 2018
Fast-paced, thrilling story, even better than the first book in the series. Although it is part of a series, it is not necessary to read them in any particular order as each book stands on its own. If you like apocalyptic fiction, you'll like these books.
Profile Image for Jackie Bauerelen.
84 reviews4 followers
July 23, 2018
Delightfully Twisted

Tom Abrahams has taken a delightfully twisted route in apocalyptic fiction. The same characters in different apocalyptic adventures... What more could you ask for, except for MORE!
1,477 reviews25 followers
August 1, 2018
Lit. Tom Abrahams

Southern California is on fire. Chaos, no help in sight. This is a story of tremendous confusion, denial , courage, bravery, horrific loss. Strength, perseverance, the will to survive.
570 reviews3 followers
August 2, 2018
Warning. Be ready to read all night.

I love the premise of this Alt Apocalypse series. And Tom Abrahams has hit it out of the ball park with the second book in the series. Intense. Action packed. Characters you want to get to know. Well written.
24 reviews1 follower
August 5, 2018
wowie..
an entirely new concept to a novel, to see some new favorite characters
in a different situation, different outcomes for everyone,
I laughed, I cried, I was transported into their world,
bravo, keep em coming.
Profile Image for Deedra.
3,933 reviews40 followers
August 30, 2018
This is the second in the series.I found it less interesting than I thought I would.Kevin Pierce was again,the perfect narrator.I was given this book by the narrator,author or publisher free for an honest review.
Profile Image for Tabatha Pope.
76 reviews27 followers
September 20, 2018
Up in smoke!!!

I love all of Tom Abrahams books. This is an extra exciting series because of all the repeats of characters. The stories are a bit on the frightening side considering how real they actually are. Keep up the outstanding writing Tom and I'll keep reading.
279 reviews3 followers
August 26, 2020
I really enjoyed this one also. It had a lot of the same characters but we see them in different working environments and how they meet differently. It has a lot of action but it all takes place one one day. One of my favorite characters dies a hero’s death. Can’t wait to read book 3.
Profile Image for Chris Ainsworth.
176 reviews3 followers
December 22, 2022
Little hints to show there’s something bigger going on with the overall series, but since they are intended to. W read I. Any order, I doubt there will be answers. Lit wasn’t bad, but my takeaway was that I now want to read George R Stewart’s Fire.
Profile Image for Geoffrey Terry.
6 reviews
January 21, 2023
Gripping book! You really feel for the characters, the suffering they go through and the possessions they lose. The heroisms of the characters and emergency services are a credit to life. Highly recommend this book from a brilliant author.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews

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