What do you think?
Rate this book
Will Rise from Ashes
Living is more than mere survival.
Young widow AJ Sinclair has persevered through much heartache. Has she met her match when the Yellowstone supervolcano erupts, leaving her separated from her youngest son and her brother? Tens of thousands are dead or missing in a swath of massive destruction. She and her nine-year-old autistic son, Will, embark on a risky road trip from Maine to the epicenter to find her family. She can't lose another loved one.
Along the way, they meet Reid Gregory, who travels his own road to perdition looking for his sister. Drawn together by AJ's fear of driving and Reid's military and local expertise, their journey to Colorado is fraught with the chaotic aftermath of the eruption. AJ's anxiety and faith in humanity are put to the test as she heals her past, accepts her family's present, and embraces uncertainty as Will and Reid show her a world she had almost forgotten.
Young widow AJ Sinclair has persevered through much heartache. Has she met her match when the Yellowstone supervolcano erupts, leaving her separated from her youngest son and her brother? Tens of thousands are dead or missing in a swath of massive destruction. She and her nine-year-old autistic son, Will, embark on a risky road trip from Maine to the epicenter to find her family. She can't lose another loved one.
Along the way, they meet Reid Gregory, who travels his own road to perdition looking for his sister. Drawn together by AJ's fear of driving and Reid's military and local expertise, their journey to Colorado is fraught with the chaotic aftermath of the eruption. AJ's anxiety and faith in humanity are put to the test as she heals her past, accepts her family's present, and embraces uncertainty as Will and Reid show her a world she had almost forgotten.
396 pages, Paperback
First published April 17, 2019
13 people are currently reading
46 people want to read
About the author
Jean M. Grant
12 books359 followersJean has a penchant for the misunderstood, be it sharks, microbes, or wounded characters. A scientist by training, she now spends her days as an author and champion for her children. She draws from her interest in history, science, the outdoors, and her family for inspiration. She serves on the local library board of trustees and is an advocate for community, inclusion, and neurodiversity awareness. Her books span the genres of historical romance (with mystical/fantasy elements), contemporary romance, women’s fiction, suspense, and friendship fiction.
A nature enthusiast who adores the national parks, Jean has also written for family-oriented travel magazines and websites. When not writing, she enjoys gardening, tackling the biggest mountains in New England, and going on adventures with her husband and children, while taking snapshots of the world around her and daydreaming about the next story. If she were stuck on a deserted island, her three essentials (besides family, food, water, shelter) would be: coffee, lip balm, and endless pink sticky notes.
Four of her books have won awards.
A nature enthusiast who adores the national parks, Jean has also written for family-oriented travel magazines and websites. When not writing, she enjoys gardening, tackling the biggest mountains in New England, and going on adventures with her husband and children, while taking snapshots of the world around her and daydreaming about the next story. If she were stuck on a deserted island, her three essentials (besides family, food, water, shelter) would be: coffee, lip balm, and endless pink sticky notes.
Four of her books have won awards.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
May 23, 2019
AJ is a recently widowed woman trying to put her life back together when a super volcano erupts in Yellowstone. Her brother and youngest son are in Yellowstone and she’s unable to determine if they are safe or not. She grabs her autistic son, Will, and makes the journey from Maine to find her loved ones. They meet and team up with Reid, who’s looking for his sister in the aftermath of this horrific natural disaster. As they slowly make the journey together, battling each challenge that comes their way, AJ, Will and Reid discover the true meaning of life and love.
Wow, this is such a heart wrenching story dealing with overcoming odds to save your family and embrace the moments that make life worth living. AJ is the perfect symbol of all mothers everywhere. Even though she’s an emotional wreck on the inside, she summons her strength to protect her autistic son from the horrors of a natural disaster. What made this such a fantastic read was the descriptive narration of the chaos which plagues every disaster. People fleeing, full of fear and the hope that one’s loved ones are alive. Beautifully described and kept me riveted.
If you’re looking for a story embracing the resiliency of the human spirit in the midst of tragedy, you’ll love Will Rise from Ashes. A must read!
Disclaimer: I received a copy from the publisher via Netgalley in the hopes I’d review it.
My Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by: Mrs. N
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/si...
Wow, this is such a heart wrenching story dealing with overcoming odds to save your family and embrace the moments that make life worth living. AJ is the perfect symbol of all mothers everywhere. Even though she’s an emotional wreck on the inside, she summons her strength to protect her autistic son from the horrors of a natural disaster. What made this such a fantastic read was the descriptive narration of the chaos which plagues every disaster. People fleeing, full of fear and the hope that one’s loved ones are alive. Beautifully described and kept me riveted.
If you’re looking for a story embracing the resiliency of the human spirit in the midst of tragedy, you’ll love Will Rise from Ashes. A must read!
Disclaimer: I received a copy from the publisher via Netgalley in the hopes I’d review it.
My Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by: Mrs. N
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/si...
May 21, 2019
I write this review as a member of Rosie’s Book Review Team (authors, if you are looking for reviews, check here), and I freely chose to review an ARC copy of this novel.
This is an ambitious novel. The author has tried to combine a complex set of characters with a gripping plot. AJ, the protagonist of the novel, is a woman in crisis, dealing with grief, having to bring-up two young boys on her own (neither of them the ideal well-behaved easy-child that everybody dreams of, but I suspect doesn’t exist in real life. The oldest, Will, in the autistic spectrum, and Finn, whom we hear plenty about but don’t get to know as well first-hand, sounds pretty overactive and his behaviour can be also challenging at times), suffering from anxiety (and perhaps other mental health difficulties), and experiencing an almost totally crippling fear of driving. We hear her side of the story, narrated in the first person. Being a professional writer, she makes for a compelling narrator, and, although not being a mother and not sharing in her extreme circumstances I do not have much in common with her, I felt the author managed to convey well the doubts, anxieties, hesitations, guilt, and the difficulties the character experienced accepting her situation, moving through the stages of grief, and eventually giving herself (and others) a chance. Her son, Will, loves all things volcano, weather, and geology, and the author offers us his perspective of the situation (this time in the third person) that serves two purposes: on the one hand, we get a more objective outsider’s perspective of how things are (because being inside of AJ’s head all the time means her suspiciousness and paranoia are not always easy to separate from how bad things really are), and we also get an understanding of how things look like and feel for a child with high-functioning autism (although there is less emphasis on that aspect than in other books I’ve read, unsurprising if we take into consideration the many other things going on).
We are later introduced to Reid, who is a combination of knight in shining armour, love interest, and also a man haunted by issues from the past (ex-military, talks about PTSD as if he was very knowledgeable about it, and his behaviour is at times mysterious, to say the least). Although AJ is suspicious about him and it takes her a long time to give him a chance, do not worry, the novel also contains romance and an opportunity for redemption. (I don’t want to give any spoilers away, but the description is quite clear in some aspects, and this is not a mystery novel, even if there are some details about the characters that are only revealed late in the story, and eventually help us understand people and events much better).
The plot keeps the story ticking, ensuring that people who might find the self-questioning and doubts AJ has to confront a bit uncomfortable (or worry that they might slow the story) have plenty to keep them turning the pages. A major disaster is the background of the story, which once AJ decides to go searching for her son, becomes the novel equivalent of a road movie. This is not a post-apocalyptic novel, but there is evidence of research and credible details of the likely scenario and consequences of such an event are interspersed through the narrative. Thanks to Will’s interest in volcanos we get first-hand information about that side of things, and as they approach the affected area, we get an almost physical sense of what it would be like to live the aftermath of a super volcano eruption. Apart from nature, the characters have to confront many other problems: technical difficulties, robberies, attempted assaults, road blocks, lack of supplies, poor telephone lines and a break-up in communication, no running water, no access to prescription medication… A woman with a driving-phobia having to drive across half the country is enough of a challenge, but her resolution keeps getting tested, and despite her reluctance to ask for or accept help, no matter how cautious and well-prepared she thought she was, she discovers that she needs a helping hand. Although the situation is harrowing and there is almost no rest or break from it (other than some dreams of the past AJ experiences, that provide us more background information and a better understanding of where she is coming from, her moments writing the diary, and the odd detour), this is not a book that gets into the gore of the destruction in detail, and, if anything, we are so focused on the here-and-now of the story that the global picture (and the many lives lost) is somewhat diluted.
The ending is satisfying and hopeful, in marked contrast to the difficulties and hindrances experienced during the trip, and in many ways the book can be seen as a metaphor for the process the main character must go through. AJ’s whole world has shattered around her, and she has been put to the test. She realises that she is stronger than she needs, that she can ask for help, and that she is ready to —slowly— move on.
As I mentioned, I did not identify with AJ, and I am not a big fan of romance (there is also a mild and not-too-graphic sex scene, but I thought I’d warn people just in case), but the book captures well the mental processes of the main character, who is a credible and complex woman trying to do her best in very difficult circumstances. The challenges of motherhood are also compellingly told (although I have no personal knowledge of the subject), and I am sure many readers will enjoy that aspect as well. If people are looking for other books focusing on the autism side-of-things, I’d recommend a couple of books as well: the well-known The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon, from an older boy’s perspective (and if you can catch the play, it’s well-worth watching), and Keith Stuart’s A Boy Made of Blocks where the father of a child with autism is the main character.
A tour-de-force that combines a gripping plot with strong and complex characters, and a hopeful message. Recommended for readers of women’s fiction.
This is an ambitious novel. The author has tried to combine a complex set of characters with a gripping plot. AJ, the protagonist of the novel, is a woman in crisis, dealing with grief, having to bring-up two young boys on her own (neither of them the ideal well-behaved easy-child that everybody dreams of, but I suspect doesn’t exist in real life. The oldest, Will, in the autistic spectrum, and Finn, whom we hear plenty about but don’t get to know as well first-hand, sounds pretty overactive and his behaviour can be also challenging at times), suffering from anxiety (and perhaps other mental health difficulties), and experiencing an almost totally crippling fear of driving. We hear her side of the story, narrated in the first person. Being a professional writer, she makes for a compelling narrator, and, although not being a mother and not sharing in her extreme circumstances I do not have much in common with her, I felt the author managed to convey well the doubts, anxieties, hesitations, guilt, and the difficulties the character experienced accepting her situation, moving through the stages of grief, and eventually giving herself (and others) a chance. Her son, Will, loves all things volcano, weather, and geology, and the author offers us his perspective of the situation (this time in the third person) that serves two purposes: on the one hand, we get a more objective outsider’s perspective of how things are (because being inside of AJ’s head all the time means her suspiciousness and paranoia are not always easy to separate from how bad things really are), and we also get an understanding of how things look like and feel for a child with high-functioning autism (although there is less emphasis on that aspect than in other books I’ve read, unsurprising if we take into consideration the many other things going on).
We are later introduced to Reid, who is a combination of knight in shining armour, love interest, and also a man haunted by issues from the past (ex-military, talks about PTSD as if he was very knowledgeable about it, and his behaviour is at times mysterious, to say the least). Although AJ is suspicious about him and it takes her a long time to give him a chance, do not worry, the novel also contains romance and an opportunity for redemption. (I don’t want to give any spoilers away, but the description is quite clear in some aspects, and this is not a mystery novel, even if there are some details about the characters that are only revealed late in the story, and eventually help us understand people and events much better).
The plot keeps the story ticking, ensuring that people who might find the self-questioning and doubts AJ has to confront a bit uncomfortable (or worry that they might slow the story) have plenty to keep them turning the pages. A major disaster is the background of the story, which once AJ decides to go searching for her son, becomes the novel equivalent of a road movie. This is not a post-apocalyptic novel, but there is evidence of research and credible details of the likely scenario and consequences of such an event are interspersed through the narrative. Thanks to Will’s interest in volcanos we get first-hand information about that side of things, and as they approach the affected area, we get an almost physical sense of what it would be like to live the aftermath of a super volcano eruption. Apart from nature, the characters have to confront many other problems: technical difficulties, robberies, attempted assaults, road blocks, lack of supplies, poor telephone lines and a break-up in communication, no running water, no access to prescription medication… A woman with a driving-phobia having to drive across half the country is enough of a challenge, but her resolution keeps getting tested, and despite her reluctance to ask for or accept help, no matter how cautious and well-prepared she thought she was, she discovers that she needs a helping hand. Although the situation is harrowing and there is almost no rest or break from it (other than some dreams of the past AJ experiences, that provide us more background information and a better understanding of where she is coming from, her moments writing the diary, and the odd detour), this is not a book that gets into the gore of the destruction in detail, and, if anything, we are so focused on the here-and-now of the story that the global picture (and the many lives lost) is somewhat diluted.
The ending is satisfying and hopeful, in marked contrast to the difficulties and hindrances experienced during the trip, and in many ways the book can be seen as a metaphor for the process the main character must go through. AJ’s whole world has shattered around her, and she has been put to the test. She realises that she is stronger than she needs, that she can ask for help, and that she is ready to —slowly— move on.
As I mentioned, I did not identify with AJ, and I am not a big fan of romance (there is also a mild and not-too-graphic sex scene, but I thought I’d warn people just in case), but the book captures well the mental processes of the main character, who is a credible and complex woman trying to do her best in very difficult circumstances. The challenges of motherhood are also compellingly told (although I have no personal knowledge of the subject), and I am sure many readers will enjoy that aspect as well. If people are looking for other books focusing on the autism side-of-things, I’d recommend a couple of books as well: the well-known The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon, from an older boy’s perspective (and if you can catch the play, it’s well-worth watching), and Keith Stuart’s A Boy Made of Blocks where the father of a child with autism is the main character.
A tour-de-force that combines a gripping plot with strong and complex characters, and a hopeful message. Recommended for readers of women’s fiction.
April 18, 2019
AJ Sinclair has been through a difficult year after losing her husband suddenly. After taking her two young sons to Yellowstone, tragedy strikes again when a supervolcano explodes, leaving many dead and AJ separated from her brother and her young son.
With only what her car can carry, she and her 9-year-old son, Will, set out from their home state of Maine to Colorado to track down her missing son. But it's not smooth sailing. While the country is falling apart in the aftermath of the volcano, AJ struggles with her anxiety disorder. And then there's Will. Will has autism.
I really enjoyed this read for a number of reasons. First, as an autism mom (two children on the spectrum), I especially enjoyed how Ms. Grant wrote the character of Will. He was realistic (very much so) and treated with dignity and care. Second, the backdrop for this story. The whole idea of a supervolcano isn't anything I've ever given any thought to and I felt like it made a compelling backdrop for the story, adding tension, and bringing about an unlikely friendship (and more) with a passing stranger.
AJ felt very real to me and I saw a lot of myself in her. She understood my struggles and I understood hers. Overall, the writing was strong and lyrical, the characters realistic and relatable. This was time well spent reading this book.
With only what her car can carry, she and her 9-year-old son, Will, set out from their home state of Maine to Colorado to track down her missing son. But it's not smooth sailing. While the country is falling apart in the aftermath of the volcano, AJ struggles with her anxiety disorder. And then there's Will. Will has autism.
I really enjoyed this read for a number of reasons. First, as an autism mom (two children on the spectrum), I especially enjoyed how Ms. Grant wrote the character of Will. He was realistic (very much so) and treated with dignity and care. Second, the backdrop for this story. The whole idea of a supervolcano isn't anything I've ever given any thought to and I felt like it made a compelling backdrop for the story, adding tension, and bringing about an unlikely friendship (and more) with a passing stranger.
AJ felt very real to me and I saw a lot of myself in her. She understood my struggles and I understood hers. Overall, the writing was strong and lyrical, the characters realistic and relatable. This was time well spent reading this book.
April 21, 2019
What's not to love about this book? I like women's fiction, but I particularly like it when it involves more than troubled relationships and Grant tackles women's fiction well. Her main character is a young widowed mother of two, whose heart we feel bleeding on every page. It's a lovely tribute to motherhood, parenting a special needs child, and finding oneself anew. It's a story about how to move into the future by learning to embrace the past. I adored everything about this book. (Particularly the scenes written from Will's point-of-view! <3 ) 5 stars for sure. Grant's women's fiction is even better than her historical romance. I'm a convert!
April 8, 2019
As an avid reader and parent of a child with special needs, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and could not put it down. It's a fabulous fictional story, and it centers on a mother of a child with special needs and her journey, both physically and emotionally. It beautifully captures all the emotions, hopes, fears, and love that a parent has for a child with special needs. The author does an amazing job not only telling a wonderful and creative story but also accurately describing the challenges and rewards of families with a loved one on the autism spectrum. Highly recommend this book!
April 21, 2019
I admit I was drawn to the Yellowstone volcanic explosion, but there is so much more to this story. It is not just a disaster/survival story. Nor just a mom struggling with loss story. Nor just a beautiful portrayal of a boy with neurodiversity story. The author blends these elements into a worthwhile read.
One note, don’t expect to jump right into lava and ash, there’s much good story before that of a journey toward the epicenter while most are traveling away that mirrors a mom’s foray to her own emotional epicenter.
One note, don’t expect to jump right into lava and ash, there’s much good story before that of a journey toward the epicenter while most are traveling away that mirrors a mom’s foray to her own emotional epicenter.
June 10, 2019
4.5/5.0
A fascinating read which lingers in the mind and heart, begging to be reread as soon as it’s finished.
Read full review in the 2019 June issue of InD'tale Magazine.
A fascinating read which lingers in the mind and heart, begging to be reread as soon as it’s finished.
Read full review in the 2019 June issue of InD'tale Magazine.
October 5, 2019
I was given this book to review by Voracious readers. This story was fantastic. It had me hooked from the very first chapter. I felt like I was on the emotional roller coaster right along with A.J.
I could have used more story...it ended too soon for my liking!
I could have used more story...it ended too soon for my liking!
October 7, 2019
Complimentary copy of this book was received through Voracious Readers Only
What a great page turner! I really enjoyed the story, the characters and the ending. Might need to stock up on my emergency supplies!!
What a great page turner! I really enjoyed the story, the characters and the ending. Might need to stock up on my emergency supplies!!
March 11, 2021
A great character-driven women's fiction story. I enjoyed the characters and the audiobook was well done. Read my full review at Girl Who Reads.
December 6, 2019
An uplifting story of surviving grief, motherhood, and hope, set in a fascinating scenario.
If you enjoy reading about moms thrown into difficult situations, it doesn’t get more challenging and ultimately uplifting than this. Yosemite has exploded, thousands of miles are covered in ash, the weather is going crazy, and civil instability is setting in across multiple states.
So what do you do when you’re a mom located half-way across the country, whose youngest son is stranded in the middle of it all? Add to the mix that the son still in your care is on the spectrum and the author sets up a fascinating scenario. What’s a mom to do but pack up the car and drive straight into the disaster zone to find her son?
Jean Grant sets up a pulse pounding scenario with this book, but it’s the mom’s emotional journey, and scenes with her autistic son that especially ring true and will tug on your heart strings. It feels like this novel was written from a place of knowing, and being able to share exactly what that love feels like.
An unusual story premise leading to an engrossing and uplifting read.
If you enjoy reading about moms thrown into difficult situations, it doesn’t get more challenging and ultimately uplifting than this. Yosemite has exploded, thousands of miles are covered in ash, the weather is going crazy, and civil instability is setting in across multiple states.
So what do you do when you’re a mom located half-way across the country, whose youngest son is stranded in the middle of it all? Add to the mix that the son still in your care is on the spectrum and the author sets up a fascinating scenario. What’s a mom to do but pack up the car and drive straight into the disaster zone to find her son?
Jean Grant sets up a pulse pounding scenario with this book, but it’s the mom’s emotional journey, and scenes with her autistic son that especially ring true and will tug on your heart strings. It feels like this novel was written from a place of knowing, and being able to share exactly what that love feels like.
An unusual story premise leading to an engrossing and uplifting read.
May 31, 2019
I received an ARC of this book prior to its publication. A fan of apocalyptic and women's fiction, I was very excited to read Grant's book about a mother in search of her young son following the eruption of America's super volcano. To make her journey more challenging, she must navigate this post-eruption reality with her young autistic son, Will, in tow. Exploring complex issues such as anxiety, depression, mourning, and autism, this book creates rich and vivid characters with compelling stories amid a world succumbing to the madness that follows a catastrophic event. I highly recommend this book to lovers of contemporary, women's, and apocalyptic fiction.
May 20, 2019
On the way home from a family holiday at the Yellowstone national park, young widow, AJ Sinclair, leaves her youngest son, Finn, in the care of her brother to travel ahead home with her autistic son, Will. When the Yellowstone supervolcano erupts the very next day, communication falters, and AJ has no way of knowing if her brother and Finn made it out from the massive devastations.
Ever since her husband died in a drink-and-drive accident, AJ has suffered from anxiety and left her own driving to a minimum. Now she must overcome her fears as she and Will set out on a journey across the country to find their missing brothers.
With the country in chaos, the obstacles they face on the way are numerous. Then they meet ex-soldier, Reid Gregory, who is traveling the same route to get to his sister. After he helps them out of a few sticky situations, AJ agrees to let him hitch a ride, and she eventually opens up and puts her trust in him.
However, Reid has secrets of his own.
Will Rise from Ashes is a fast-paced read. Still, it manages to depict a beautiful and authentic mother-child relationship. The characters are fully fleshed out, the dialogue realistic, and the writing flows naturally.
With several historical romances under her belt, Jean Grant also knows how to weave in a romantic plotline, but without putting it in the front seat. This is a book about finding your own strength and keeping your family together in the face of disaster.
Ever since her husband died in a drink-and-drive accident, AJ has suffered from anxiety and left her own driving to a minimum. Now she must overcome her fears as she and Will set out on a journey across the country to find their missing brothers.
With the country in chaos, the obstacles they face on the way are numerous. Then they meet ex-soldier, Reid Gregory, who is traveling the same route to get to his sister. After he helps them out of a few sticky situations, AJ agrees to let him hitch a ride, and she eventually opens up and puts her trust in him.
However, Reid has secrets of his own.
Will Rise from Ashes is a fast-paced read. Still, it manages to depict a beautiful and authentic mother-child relationship. The characters are fully fleshed out, the dialogue realistic, and the writing flows naturally.
With several historical romances under her belt, Jean Grant also knows how to weave in a romantic plotline, but without putting it in the front seat. This is a book about finding your own strength and keeping your family together in the face of disaster.
May 23, 2019
First time reading this author and this book is extremely well written. The author takes us on an emotional journey and shows real understanding of parenting an autistic child. A.J. the main female character has been through a lot of heartache and feels so alone as she attempts to move through her grief and raise her children. When a natural disaster occurs it’s the last thing, she needs but ends up being what helps to save her as she embarks on a perilous journey to find her other child. It’s through this journey that she meets Reid who is going through his own struggle and torment as he searches for his sister. The 2 adults and AJ’s autistic son Will, come together in such a beautiful way as they learn and rely and help each other. This is a deeply emotional story that is also full of hope for the future, well worth the read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 16, 2019
This book is so gripping I hardly know where to begin.
It’s moving women’s fiction, it’s a physical and emotional journey, it’s a love letter to parents with special needs children and the power of mother love in general.
AJ has suffered the loss of her husband and has barely begun to deal with that pain when one of her two sons goes missing along with her brother after a natural disaster that in 2019 seems more probable than not.
The story depicts a woman’s decision to travel with her special needs son to the site of the disaster to search for her family.
With authentic dialog and vivid descriptions of her outward and inward journey as a real multi-faceted woman with a desperate weight of worry on her shoulders I can easily see this story as an amazing movie. Reese Witherspoon take note.
Highly recommend.
It’s moving women’s fiction, it’s a physical and emotional journey, it’s a love letter to parents with special needs children and the power of mother love in general.
AJ has suffered the loss of her husband and has barely begun to deal with that pain when one of her two sons goes missing along with her brother after a natural disaster that in 2019 seems more probable than not.
The story depicts a woman’s decision to travel with her special needs son to the site of the disaster to search for her family.
With authentic dialog and vivid descriptions of her outward and inward journey as a real multi-faceted woman with a desperate weight of worry on her shoulders I can easily see this story as an amazing movie. Reese Witherspoon take note.
Highly recommend.
April 14, 2019
This was my first-time reading Ms. Grant, and I was delighted with her measured revelation of her characters’ journey through a catastrophic event in what could be our dystopian future.
This is the story of a recently widowed, thirty-something, mom of two boys who is on a quest to locate her younger son––missing with her brother––due to a volcanic eruption in Yellowstone. With man against nature, ash clouds do not mix well with telecommunication systems, aircraft engines or the water supply. She does not hold back on the abundance of obstacles that confront her characters, including forgotten meds, bad actors encountered on the road, and the desperate behaviour from people struggling to survive when facing immeasurable odds. If anything, I wondered what else this character was going to be faced with, but the variety of challenges do keep the pace moving nicely in the second half. I didn’t feel a slump or that there was a “missing middle,” as she kept me intrigued through to the end.
What allows this to rise above the “gee ain’t it awful” syndrome we can slide into talking about natural disasters or current events is the sensitivity and innocence she demonstrates via, Will, a child with autism. There was no sense that this was a convenient ploy or staged for convenience––there didn’t appear to be anything unauthentic about this character.
Setting is an important element in this story, and although I am not a resident of the United States, this was not an issue as she leverages the specifics of the geography to tell a bigger, more symbolic story; however, this isn’t a case that this could take place anywhere, as the event that propels the narrative is location specific, and she poses larger, more thought-provoking questions that any member of our fragile planet can relate to.
Structurally, the reader learns early on what is at stake for her main character and the reader quickly aligns to what is at stake for human kind creating a sense of urgency.
Written with accessible language, she has an easy-to-read voice that is not too distant or intimate, and although she poses some “what ifs” about what plagues us, she doesn’t lecture or let her own voice overtake the narrative.
She tells the story through alternating points-of-view that caused me to do some re-reading for clarity. Although, the narrative voices are appropriate for an adult and a child, she uses first-person for the chapters belonging to her adult main character, AJ, and third-person when the perspective belongs to AJ’s nine-year-old son, Will. The language was clear, and however perplexed I was with this approach, it didn’t detract from the book’s readability.
The double entendre of the title is appealing lending itself to more than one interpretation, and in Will Rise from Ashes, Jean Grant delivers in a literal and figurative sense.
This is the story of a recently widowed, thirty-something, mom of two boys who is on a quest to locate her younger son––missing with her brother––due to a volcanic eruption in Yellowstone. With man against nature, ash clouds do not mix well with telecommunication systems, aircraft engines or the water supply. She does not hold back on the abundance of obstacles that confront her characters, including forgotten meds, bad actors encountered on the road, and the desperate behaviour from people struggling to survive when facing immeasurable odds. If anything, I wondered what else this character was going to be faced with, but the variety of challenges do keep the pace moving nicely in the second half. I didn’t feel a slump or that there was a “missing middle,” as she kept me intrigued through to the end.
What allows this to rise above the “gee ain’t it awful” syndrome we can slide into talking about natural disasters or current events is the sensitivity and innocence she demonstrates via, Will, a child with autism. There was no sense that this was a convenient ploy or staged for convenience––there didn’t appear to be anything unauthentic about this character.
Setting is an important element in this story, and although I am not a resident of the United States, this was not an issue as she leverages the specifics of the geography to tell a bigger, more symbolic story; however, this isn’t a case that this could take place anywhere, as the event that propels the narrative is location specific, and she poses larger, more thought-provoking questions that any member of our fragile planet can relate to.
Structurally, the reader learns early on what is at stake for her main character and the reader quickly aligns to what is at stake for human kind creating a sense of urgency.
Written with accessible language, she has an easy-to-read voice that is not too distant or intimate, and although she poses some “what ifs” about what plagues us, she doesn’t lecture or let her own voice overtake the narrative.
She tells the story through alternating points-of-view that caused me to do some re-reading for clarity. Although, the narrative voices are appropriate for an adult and a child, she uses first-person for the chapters belonging to her adult main character, AJ, and third-person when the perspective belongs to AJ’s nine-year-old son, Will. The language was clear, and however perplexed I was with this approach, it didn’t detract from the book’s readability.
The double entendre of the title is appealing lending itself to more than one interpretation, and in Will Rise from Ashes, Jean Grant delivers in a literal and figurative sense.
May 6, 2019
This book was about a mother, AJ, and her nine-year-old son who travel cross-country to find her brother and younger son after a natural disaster. AJ has suffered from depression and anxiety the past year, ever since her husband was killed in an accident leaving her to raise her two children alone. The trip to find her son ended up being a trip to find herself. The writing was beautiful, and the story was filled with well-developed characters. I particularly enjoyed AJ’s relationship with Will, her autistic son, which I believed painted an accurate picture of the challenges and joys of raising a child on the spectrum. The love story also felt very real. Overall, it was a story of hope and renewal and left me feeling uplifted.
May 4, 2019
This book was a bit of a surprise to me. I had not heard of this author, and disaster stories aren’t my usual type of book. The young character with autism first drew my attention, and I’m so glad it did! This is really not a story about natural disasters at all- that is just the vehicle used to get these characters moving, literally. This is really a story of a woman and her journey back from heartbreak. Thank you to Netgalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. What a nice surprise!
April 1, 2019
I’ve just finished Will Rise From Ashes and I found it to be a very satisfying novel on several levels. While the western half of the United States is reeling from a devastating natural disaster, AJ Sinclair, a young widow home in Maine, finds herself separated from her younger son who was with his uncle, very close to the epicenter. Communication is spotty at best and unable to confirm that her brother and son are safe, AJ takes her older autistic son on a mission across the country to find them. She encounters many obstacles and finds the parts of herself that went missing when her husband died. She is stronger than she gives herself credit for. The thoughts voiced by her older autistic son are such an important part of the story. Working around his special needs and quirks on this rescue journey is not easy. She works her way across the country with the help of Reid, a former US Army soldier who is on a rescue mission of his own, trying to find his sister. Natural disaster, family dynamics and romance-it really does have it all. The story grabs you right from the beginning and never lets up. When I enjoy a book it runs through my head like a movie while I’m reading. I’m absolutely certain I would recognize all the characters and all the geographical locations should I ever run into them! Thoroughly enjoyable and I highly recommend it.
April 27, 2019
I read this book during a two week period and it was hard to put down each time! It was full of suspense and emotions that really pulled me and made me want to learn more about the main characters past and how it made her the person that she was. Reading about her journey across the country, learning more about autism and anticipating how the story would end, made Will Rise From Ashes a page turner for me. Jean told a story that was riveting and left me wanting to read more stories about AJ and her children in the future!
April 30, 2019
ARC copy: A dystopian novel that looks at the aftermath of the eruption of the Yellowstone volcano. As a parent what would you do if one of your children were in the circle of ashfall? This is a parent journey to find a child, coming to terms with loss, and trusting in humanity.
September 25, 2020
Will Rise from Ashes is my second book from author Jean Grant, and i chose it because I love the heart-warming emotion she puts into her writing. I'm also partial to books with a kid who's an underdog in any way, so this one hit me on several levels.
I'm writing this review as the virus count is going up in many states, and therefore related to A.J.'s very immediate problems and the urgency and need to protect one son while searching for the other. And battling a fear of driving. (The backstory of this likable character is a taut read in itself.) The story is layered and realistic in the way our lives are.
Women's fiction with enough romance to be satisfying, my absolute favorite. Enjoyed this book to the max. Was happy to award five stars!
I'm writing this review as the virus count is going up in many states, and therefore related to A.J.'s very immediate problems and the urgency and need to protect one son while searching for the other. And battling a fear of driving. (The backstory of this likable character is a taut read in itself.) The story is layered and realistic in the way our lives are.
Women's fiction with enough romance to be satisfying, my absolute favorite. Enjoyed this book to the max. Was happy to award five stars!
February 15, 2020
What would happen if Yellowstone erupted?
This novel very well-researched from little details such as the texture of ash to bigger things like the eruption radius of a volcano. As a mother, AJ’s journey to find her son after the eruption is heartwarming and emotional. There is no limit for what a mother would do for her kids. The story opens readers’ minds to better understand what autism is like, even from the point of view of a child who has autism.
The story was well-written, detailed, heart wrenching, and I definitely recommend it.
This novel very well-researched from little details such as the texture of ash to bigger things like the eruption radius of a volcano. As a mother, AJ’s journey to find her son after the eruption is heartwarming and emotional. There is no limit for what a mother would do for her kids. The story opens readers’ minds to better understand what autism is like, even from the point of view of a child who has autism.
The story was well-written, detailed, heart wrenching, and I definitely recommend it.
March 29, 2021
The Review
A truly remarkable read, this apocalyptic, disaster-driven drama immediately draws the reader in with shocking events that would terrify and challenge any of us. The author does an excellent job of blending in-depth character growth with realism in the face of a tragic event such as the eruption of a supervolcano with a writing style that immediately conjures up a strong sense of imagery, bringing the action of this narrative to life in a brilliant way.
What stands out in this audiobook is that the story doesn’t necessarily focus as much on any sense of mystery, as the main plot of the story involves an already erupted volcano, but instead on the characters as they face this disaster together and must work to find one another. The author delves into themes of grief, loss, trust, and family as the main protagonist, AJ, deals with the loss of a loved one and the challenge of raising two sons, one of which is autistic, and must find the rest of her family in the face of disaster. Along the way, AJ’s struggle to trust anyone again comes to life through Reid, as a hint of possible romance and survival come through early on in their meeting one another.
The Verdict
An engaging, emotional, and thoughtful audiobook, author Jean M. Grant’s “Will Rise From Ashes” is a must-read (listen) audiobook. The narrators really capture the emotional core of these characters and their world, while the writing itself brings to life the chaos and upheaval such a powerful event would have on our nation and world as a whole. With a cast of memorable characters, this is not a book you want to miss. Be sure to grab your copy today!
A truly remarkable read, this apocalyptic, disaster-driven drama immediately draws the reader in with shocking events that would terrify and challenge any of us. The author does an excellent job of blending in-depth character growth with realism in the face of a tragic event such as the eruption of a supervolcano with a writing style that immediately conjures up a strong sense of imagery, bringing the action of this narrative to life in a brilliant way.
What stands out in this audiobook is that the story doesn’t necessarily focus as much on any sense of mystery, as the main plot of the story involves an already erupted volcano, but instead on the characters as they face this disaster together and must work to find one another. The author delves into themes of grief, loss, trust, and family as the main protagonist, AJ, deals with the loss of a loved one and the challenge of raising two sons, one of which is autistic, and must find the rest of her family in the face of disaster. Along the way, AJ’s struggle to trust anyone again comes to life through Reid, as a hint of possible romance and survival come through early on in their meeting one another.
The Verdict
An engaging, emotional, and thoughtful audiobook, author Jean M. Grant’s “Will Rise From Ashes” is a must-read (listen) audiobook. The narrators really capture the emotional core of these characters and their world, while the writing itself brings to life the chaos and upheaval such a powerful event would have on our nation and world as a whole. With a cast of memorable characters, this is not a book you want to miss. Be sure to grab your copy today!
March 16, 2021
During the pandemic, many readers and tv/movie viewers have avoided anything heavy or dangerous-sounding, preferring pure escapism. Not me. I’ve spent the last year immersed in apocalyptic and disaster entertainment and am still wallowing in such things. Of course, it helps that I already had an obsessive love of this kind of stuff and I’m always looking for more so, when this opportunity came along, I couldn’t sign up fast enough.
As it turns out, this is a blend of disaster fiction, family issues and a potential love story and Ms. Grant does it all very well. I’ve never been in AJ’s shoes but I connected with her almost immediately and I truly understood her determination to get to her younger son and her brother who may or may not have been caught by the eruption in Yellowstone.
Side note—this is not the massive eruption we know will happen someday so don’t get your knickers in a twist at how “easy” this blast and AJ’s, Will’s and Reid’s journeys seem to be; this is more a story of coping and recovery.
And Will, my goodness, what a nifty little kid, autistic difficulties and all. He and Reid, a fellow traveler in search of the sister he needs badly to find, are perfect companions on the road in many ways. What the trio will find when the trip ends might be heartbreak, horror, maybe even redemption and, for me, the journey was very satisfying if not quite the awful event I was hoping for.
The story is told by AJ with occasional commentary by Will and the two narrators, Caroline Hewitt and Andrew V. Perkins do a fine job. I would gladly listen to one or both again.
As it turns out, this is a blend of disaster fiction, family issues and a potential love story and Ms. Grant does it all very well. I’ve never been in AJ’s shoes but I connected with her almost immediately and I truly understood her determination to get to her younger son and her brother who may or may not have been caught by the eruption in Yellowstone.
Side note—this is not the massive eruption we know will happen someday so don’t get your knickers in a twist at how “easy” this blast and AJ’s, Will’s and Reid’s journeys seem to be; this is more a story of coping and recovery.
And Will, my goodness, what a nifty little kid, autistic difficulties and all. He and Reid, a fellow traveler in search of the sister he needs badly to find, are perfect companions on the road in many ways. What the trio will find when the trip ends might be heartbreak, horror, maybe even redemption and, for me, the journey was very satisfying if not quite the awful event I was hoping for.
The story is told by AJ with occasional commentary by Will and the two narrators, Caroline Hewitt and Andrew V. Perkins do a fine job. I would gladly listen to one or both again.
February 29, 2020
Will Rise from Ashes
by Jean M. Grant
Will Rise from Ashes is an impressive novel, an unusual narrative with an engrossing scenario of being thrown into difficult situation and even a little romance along the way; beautifully written. The author sets up a rhythm of heart pounding circumstances, an emotional journey and scene that explicitly ring true and tug at the readers heart strings. A story which feels so real, that it accurately paints a visual picture for the readers of the challenges, joys, hopes and restoration, leaving the readers feeling uplifted. This is a novel written from a place of knowing and of being able to share exactly what that love feels like.
Ms. Grant is a gifted writer, she writes from the heart when she creates the characters in her book, readers cannot help but to fall in love with them in the first chapter. Readers are drawn into this story quickly, with the great character depiction and development that is authentic, the relationships are believable. A tale delivering forgiveness that is liberating, in a unique plot keeping the reader interested and feeling emotions, makes this a terrific read.
This is my first Grant novel to read, and I really enjoyed this touching story. I am sure I will be keeping track of what she releases in the future and reading more of this authors work. This is a winning combination of touching events that should be on everyone’s reading list, earning 5-stars.
by Jean M. Grant
Will Rise from Ashes is an impressive novel, an unusual narrative with an engrossing scenario of being thrown into difficult situation and even a little romance along the way; beautifully written. The author sets up a rhythm of heart pounding circumstances, an emotional journey and scene that explicitly ring true and tug at the readers heart strings. A story which feels so real, that it accurately paints a visual picture for the readers of the challenges, joys, hopes and restoration, leaving the readers feeling uplifted. This is a novel written from a place of knowing and of being able to share exactly what that love feels like.
Ms. Grant is a gifted writer, she writes from the heart when she creates the characters in her book, readers cannot help but to fall in love with them in the first chapter. Readers are drawn into this story quickly, with the great character depiction and development that is authentic, the relationships are believable. A tale delivering forgiveness that is liberating, in a unique plot keeping the reader interested and feeling emotions, makes this a terrific read.
This is my first Grant novel to read, and I really enjoyed this touching story. I am sure I will be keeping track of what she releases in the future and reading more of this authors work. This is a winning combination of touching events that should be on everyone’s reading list, earning 5-stars.
April 4, 2021
Overall 4 out of 5 stars
Performance 4 out of 5 stars
Story 4 out of 5 stars
what would you do to make home...
The narrators did a fabulous job. I commend them both. I loved the cadance, pitch and tone. Cues were taken and carried out from the words written on the pages.
There was something very realistic about this story. From the mouth that AJ had on her. To the connection she had with her son. All the way to the chance encounter with Reid and all the barriers encountered. There were highs and lows all felt with each of the scenes. The was a connecting thread that allowed for it all to flow together.
I believe if given a chance a connection can be made with this story and the various disasters happening in today's world. There are the moments when you can compare to the tornado that devastated a community and a mother trying to make it to the school her children are at while no car or any type of transportation aside her two legs. The lengths should would go through to make it to her children.
Reid and AJ find so much more than just the trust of a strange or protective nature. They find a meaning in the endless devastation taking place in their world. I can see myself revisiting AJ and Reid in the future.
***
I received this audiobook as part of my participation in a blog tour with Audiobookworm Promotions. The tour is being sponsored by Jean M. Grant. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it.
Performance 4 out of 5 stars
Story 4 out of 5 stars
what would you do to make home...
The narrators did a fabulous job. I commend them both. I loved the cadance, pitch and tone. Cues were taken and carried out from the words written on the pages.
There was something very realistic about this story. From the mouth that AJ had on her. To the connection she had with her son. All the way to the chance encounter with Reid and all the barriers encountered. There were highs and lows all felt with each of the scenes. The was a connecting thread that allowed for it all to flow together.
I believe if given a chance a connection can be made with this story and the various disasters happening in today's world. There are the moments when you can compare to the tornado that devastated a community and a mother trying to make it to the school her children are at while no car or any type of transportation aside her two legs. The lengths should would go through to make it to her children.
Reid and AJ find so much more than just the trust of a strange or protective nature. They find a meaning in the endless devastation taking place in their world. I can see myself revisiting AJ and Reid in the future.
***
I received this audiobook as part of my participation in a blog tour with Audiobookworm Promotions. The tour is being sponsored by Jean M. Grant. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it.
January 14, 2025
Will Rise from Ashes is an exciting and emotionally moving adventure centering on a young widow journeying with her neurodiverse son across the nation to rescue her brother and other son lost in the wake of a volcanic eruption in Yellowstone Park. Jean Grant uses the context of natural disaster to send her heroine AJ into a battle through adversity to find inner peace and self-respect over her guilt and frustrations with her personal loss, her loving but troubled relationships with her children, and her desire to be a confident and creative person. Throughout their journey, AJ and her son Will must overcome terrible adversity in the forms of looters, illness, and the disastrous physical and psychological effects of the volcano - as well their own fears and uncertainty. Yet they are also helped by decent and compassionate people, including a veteran with painful secrets of his own. Grant crafts tight suspense as she has AJ and her son face off against human and natural adversities, all while uncertain about the fate of her brother and other child. Grant does an excellent job of writing from the perspectives of a neurodiverse child and that of a mother striving to do right by him, including her frustrations and her pride in his uniqueness. The relationship between AJ and the veteran is developed deftly into a believable romance. All in all, an exciting and moving read.
March 14, 2021
Author Jean M. Grant presents a moving story of a mother’s concern for missing family members in the wake of a natural disaster.
A.J, her two sons, and brother are forced to separate as they prepare to fly home from vacationing in Yellowstone National Park. She and her 9-year-old autistic son fly home early, expecting the other two to follow on a later flight.
However, upon reaching home, which is in Maine, she hears devastating news that a supervolcano has erupted. She has been trying to cope ever since her husband was killed in a driving accident, and this news immediately adds to her anxiety. She can’t lose anyone else, and her brother isn’t answering his cell phone. She makes a snap decision to drive to Denver where she is sure her brother and youngest son are.
It is obvious that being without her husband, and also raising two young children has taken its toll on her, since the last year she has suffered from depression and anxiety. However, at the time this decision was made, she would not have known how beneficial to her healing the trip would end up being.
My Concerns
In all of the chaos how in the world does AJ think she will find her brother? And if by chance things open up and he is able to catch a bus or plane home, where does that leave her? Searching? And by her quick reaction to go find her brother and son, she ends up causing extra work for first responders trying to help those with immediate needs.
I was also concerned about AJ’s attitude toward her new friend who was giving his all to help her along the trip. I know she is having trouble trusting others, but being kind is never out of order.
My Conclusion
The writing was good and I would say the “good“ far outweighed my concerns, so by all means give it a try. And, who know, perhaps my concerns were a bit too serious and analytical?
I received this audiobook as part of my participation in a blog tour with Audiobookworm Promotions. The tour is being sponsored by Jean M. Grant. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it.
A.J, her two sons, and brother are forced to separate as they prepare to fly home from vacationing in Yellowstone National Park. She and her 9-year-old autistic son fly home early, expecting the other two to follow on a later flight.
However, upon reaching home, which is in Maine, she hears devastating news that a supervolcano has erupted. She has been trying to cope ever since her husband was killed in a driving accident, and this news immediately adds to her anxiety. She can’t lose anyone else, and her brother isn’t answering his cell phone. She makes a snap decision to drive to Denver where she is sure her brother and youngest son are.
It is obvious that being without her husband, and also raising two young children has taken its toll on her, since the last year she has suffered from depression and anxiety. However, at the time this decision was made, she would not have known how beneficial to her healing the trip would end up being.
My Concerns
In all of the chaos how in the world does AJ think she will find her brother? And if by chance things open up and he is able to catch a bus or plane home, where does that leave her? Searching? And by her quick reaction to go find her brother and son, she ends up causing extra work for first responders trying to help those with immediate needs.
I was also concerned about AJ’s attitude toward her new friend who was giving his all to help her along the trip. I know she is having trouble trusting others, but being kind is never out of order.
My Conclusion
The writing was good and I would say the “good“ far outweighed my concerns, so by all means give it a try. And, who know, perhaps my concerns were a bit too serious and analytical?
I received this audiobook as part of my participation in a blog tour with Audiobookworm Promotions. The tour is being sponsored by Jean M. Grant. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it.
October 16, 2020
Ms. Grant has done it again! A widow travels across the country to find her son and brother after a catastrophic natural disaster occurs. She must travel with her other autistic son and faces many challenges along the way. When she meets a stranger, the way she views herself, her sons, her challenges and her life begin to change, but is he the man she thinks he is?
Full of twists and turns, Will Rise from Ashes, will have you second-guessing everything until the very end. In fact, leave yourself a free weekend because you won’t want to put down this gripping adventure. Ms. Grant has done her research on autism, anxiety disorders, grief, and a mother’s determination. Yet, she also excellently takes you on the journey with her main characters to self-discovery as well. As I listened to the audio version of this story I’d be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge the extraordinary performances of the narrators. Excellent job on turning Ms. Grant’s fantastic characters into live speaking people.
Full of twists and turns, Will Rise from Ashes, will have you second-guessing everything until the very end. In fact, leave yourself a free weekend because you won’t want to put down this gripping adventure. Ms. Grant has done her research on autism, anxiety disorders, grief, and a mother’s determination. Yet, she also excellently takes you on the journey with her main characters to self-discovery as well. As I listened to the audio version of this story I’d be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge the extraordinary performances of the narrators. Excellent job on turning Ms. Grant’s fantastic characters into live speaking people.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews