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The Thaw Chronicles #0.5
Burning
Only the chosen shall breed.
In a new world isolated by a rising, toxic sea, a single bridge connects Askala to the Outlands. Those who remain will need to pass a Proving to determine if they have the intelligence and heart to champion the future of their broken Earth.
Those who succeed will become Bound, the ones chosen to breed.
Those who fail, are Unbound. Free of responsibility, but robbed of their ability to bear children.
Four young lives are born into this world. Magnus and Callix, two brothers determined to uphold this new order. Two brothers in love with the same girl.
Amity, the one who must make the impossible choice.
And Mercy, the girl who no one sees, but sees it all.
As a new threat to Askala emerges, secrets will be revealed and the fight for survival will become their biggest challenge yet.
Life is fragile. Love will refuse to be denied.
Sacrifice will be inevitable.
Lovers of Divergent, The Hunger Games and The Maze Runner will be blown away by the breathtaking new series from USA Today best-selling author Tamar Sloan and award-winning author Heidi Catherine.
In a new world isolated by a rising, toxic sea, a single bridge connects Askala to the Outlands. Those who remain will need to pass a Proving to determine if they have the intelligence and heart to champion the future of their broken Earth.
Those who succeed will become Bound, the ones chosen to breed.
Those who fail, are Unbound. Free of responsibility, but robbed of their ability to bear children.
Four young lives are born into this world. Magnus and Callix, two brothers determined to uphold this new order. Two brothers in love with the same girl.
Amity, the one who must make the impossible choice.
And Mercy, the girl who no one sees, but sees it all.
As a new threat to Askala emerges, secrets will be revealed and the fight for survival will become their biggest challenge yet.
Life is fragile. Love will refuse to be denied.
Sacrifice will be inevitable.
Lovers of Divergent, The Hunger Games and The Maze Runner will be blown away by the breathtaking new series from USA Today best-selling author Tamar Sloan and award-winning author Heidi Catherine.
142 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 13, 2019
256 people are currently reading
1130 people want to read
About the author
Tamar Sloan
141 books431 followersTamar really struggled writing this bio, in part because it’s in third person, but mostly because she hasn’t decided whether she’s primarily a psychologist who loves writing, or a writer with a lifelong fascination with psychology.
She must have been someone pretty awesome in a previous life (past life regression indicated a Care Bear), because she gets to do both. Beginning her career as a youth worker, then a secondary school teacher, before becoming a school psychologist, Tamar helps children and teens to live and thrive despite life’s hurdles like loss, relationship difficulties, mental health issues, and trauma.
As lover of reading, inspired by books that sparked beautiful movies in her head, Tamar loves to write young adult romance. To be honest, it was probably inevitable that her knowledge and love of literature would translate into writing emotion driven stories of finding life and love beyond our comfort zones. You can find out more about Tamar’s books at www.tamarsloan.com
A lifetime consumer of knowledge, Tamar holds degrees in Applied Science, Education and Psychology. When not reading, writing or working with teens, Tamar can be found with her husband and two children enjoying country life on their small slice of the Australian bush.
The driving force for all of Tamar’s writing is sharing and connecting. In truth, connecting with others is why she writes. She loves to hear from readers and fellow writers. Find her on all the usual social media channels or her website.
She must have been someone pretty awesome in a previous life (past life regression indicated a Care Bear), because she gets to do both. Beginning her career as a youth worker, then a secondary school teacher, before becoming a school psychologist, Tamar helps children and teens to live and thrive despite life’s hurdles like loss, relationship difficulties, mental health issues, and trauma.
As lover of reading, inspired by books that sparked beautiful movies in her head, Tamar loves to write young adult romance. To be honest, it was probably inevitable that her knowledge and love of literature would translate into writing emotion driven stories of finding life and love beyond our comfort zones. You can find out more about Tamar’s books at www.tamarsloan.com
A lifetime consumer of knowledge, Tamar holds degrees in Applied Science, Education and Psychology. When not reading, writing or working with teens, Tamar can be found with her husband and two children enjoying country life on their small slice of the Australian bush.
The driving force for all of Tamar’s writing is sharing and connecting. In truth, connecting with others is why she writes. She loves to hear from readers and fellow writers. Find her on all the usual social media channels or her website.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
April 18, 2020
4 burning stars
An exciting prequel to a new series that promises to be in the same league with The Hunger Games.
If this introductory story is an indicator, After the Thaw could be one of those series to appease all fans of great dystopian fantasy.
fan art by The Magic Book Corner
The Earth is broken. Humanity broke it with overuse of plastic and pollution. And what's left of it struggles to survive.
Askala is a small heaven that survived.
Once known as Alaska, this land was home to frigid winters and landscapes molded by ice. What's left of it now is a temperate island covered in forests of pine.
Snow and cold weather are a fable. Something no one even remembers. Something that was supposed to have existed before. Before the fires. Before the storms. Before the loss of so many sentient lives.
Askala is isolated by a rising, toxic sea, with a single bridge connecting it to the Outlands. And only those who prove their worth are allowed to be a part of it. Because the survivors realized their past mistakes and are now determined to both salvage what's left, as well as make sure Earth is never desecrated like that again.
Outlanders are strictly forbidden to lay foot on Askala. Because they cannot be trusted to uphold the law and peace. And the Askalans need to prove themselves worthy, before being allowed to lead a normal life.
Everyone will need to pass a Proving to determine if they have the intelligence and heart to champion the future of their broken Earth. Those who succeed will become Bound, the ones chosen to breed. Those who fail, are Unbound. Free of responsibility, but robbed of their ability to bear children.
A harsh law, but the only thing ensuring both humanity's and Earth's survival.
On this background we follow the story of four teenagers: Callix, Magnus, Amity and Mercy.
Callix and Magnus are determined to uphold this new order, but life and love seem determined to set them on opposing sides.
Amity is the perfect Bound. Gentle and compassionate, she represents the best in humanity. And of course both brothers cannot help to fall for her, And fall hard. Who she will chose however, you're gonna have to read this to find out. But I tell you this. Her choice will not be an easy one.
Mercy is the girl who no one sees, but sees it all. Plain and invisible until the turning point.
A new threat to Askala emerges, one that endangers everyone's survival. Secrets are revealed. Desire sparks. Passion kindles. And finding a solution to this new peril will be the toughest thing any of the Bounds have ever tried to even consider.
Life is fragile. Love will refuse to be denied.
and
Sacrifice will be inevitable.
But how far will they go?
An exciting read written in an easy to follow and highly enjoyable narrative, Burning is bound to appeal to all fans of The Hunger Games and The Maze Runner. It does contain a lot of drama, as well as a few soap-opera type of moments, but it is bound to keep you glued to your seat till the very end.
Enjoyable, intriguing and with quite a few twists and turns you don't see coming, this is one of those reads that will leave you wanting more.
So go ahead and give it a try. It's free on Kindle and absolutely worth it!
Find this review and more on my book review and cover art blog The Magic Book Corner
An exciting prequel to a new series that promises to be in the same league with The Hunger Games.
If this introductory story is an indicator, After the Thaw could be one of those series to appease all fans of great dystopian fantasy.
fan art by The Magic Book Corner
The Earth is broken. Humanity broke it with overuse of plastic and pollution. And what's left of it struggles to survive.
Askala is a small heaven that survived.
Once known as Alaska, this land was home to frigid winters and landscapes molded by ice. What's left of it now is a temperate island covered in forests of pine.
Snow and cold weather are a fable. Something no one even remembers. Something that was supposed to have existed before. Before the fires. Before the storms. Before the loss of so many sentient lives.
Askala is isolated by a rising, toxic sea, with a single bridge connecting it to the Outlands. And only those who prove their worth are allowed to be a part of it. Because the survivors realized their past mistakes and are now determined to both salvage what's left, as well as make sure Earth is never desecrated like that again.
Outlanders are strictly forbidden to lay foot on Askala. Because they cannot be trusted to uphold the law and peace. And the Askalans need to prove themselves worthy, before being allowed to lead a normal life.
Everyone will need to pass a Proving to determine if they have the intelligence and heart to champion the future of their broken Earth. Those who succeed will become Bound, the ones chosen to breed. Those who fail, are Unbound. Free of responsibility, but robbed of their ability to bear children.
A harsh law, but the only thing ensuring both humanity's and Earth's survival.
On this background we follow the story of four teenagers: Callix, Magnus, Amity and Mercy.
Callix and Magnus are determined to uphold this new order, but life and love seem determined to set them on opposing sides.
Amity is the perfect Bound. Gentle and compassionate, she represents the best in humanity. And of course both brothers cannot help to fall for her, And fall hard. Who she will chose however, you're gonna have to read this to find out. But I tell you this. Her choice will not be an easy one.
Mercy is the girl who no one sees, but sees it all. Plain and invisible until the turning point.
A new threat to Askala emerges, one that endangers everyone's survival. Secrets are revealed. Desire sparks. Passion kindles. And finding a solution to this new peril will be the toughest thing any of the Bounds have ever tried to even consider.
Life is fragile. Love will refuse to be denied.
and
Sacrifice will be inevitable.
But how far will they go?
An exciting read written in an easy to follow and highly enjoyable narrative, Burning is bound to appeal to all fans of The Hunger Games and The Maze Runner. It does contain a lot of drama, as well as a few soap-opera type of moments, but it is bound to keep you glued to your seat till the very end.
Enjoyable, intriguing and with quite a few twists and turns you don't see coming, this is one of those reads that will leave you wanting more.
So go ahead and give it a try. It's free on Kindle and absolutely worth it!
Find this review and more on my book review and cover art blog The Magic Book Corner
September 9, 2025
(Prequel Novella)
2.5 ✨
YA Dystopian
Only the chosen shall breed. In a new world, isolated by a rising toxic sea, a single bridge connects Askala to the Outlands.
📚 Book Source 📚
Kindle Unlimited
🌎climate change
🌎dystopian
🌎post apocalyptic
🌎testing
🌎romance
🌎no-spice
This was an ok start to a YA Dystopian series. I started reading the first book in the series, not realizing there was a prequel- so I put the first book on pause because I thought this might make the book make more sense. For the most part- it answers some questions, but I’m still on the fence and have some issues with the writing and world building. It’s interesting enough, so I think I will continue with the first book to see where it goes and if things improve, decide if I want to continue. So far it’s a clean, no - spice read.
2.5 ✨
YA Dystopian
Only the chosen shall breed. In a new world, isolated by a rising toxic sea, a single bridge connects Askala to the Outlands.
📚 Book Source 📚
Kindle Unlimited
🌎climate change
🌎dystopian
🌎post apocalyptic
🌎testing
🌎romance
🌎no-spice
This was an ok start to a YA Dystopian series. I started reading the first book in the series, not realizing there was a prequel- so I put the first book on pause because I thought this might make the book make more sense. For the most part- it answers some questions, but I’m still on the fence and have some issues with the writing and world building. It’s interesting enough, so I think I will continue with the first book to see where it goes and if things improve, decide if I want to continue. So far it’s a clean, no - spice read.
December 7, 2019
I didn't think it possible for another story to rival the likes of the Hunger Games and Divergent, but if Burning is an indicator, After The Thaw is going to be THE series to slake dystopian fans' thirst.
After the Thaw's premise is fascinating because it is frighteningly possible: a society ravaged by the consequences of unchecked global warming where only those with the innate empathy and intelligence to keep the planet and the race going are allowed to breed. Add characters you can't help fall in love with and smart writing, and you have yourself a series to rival the block busters. Try the free prequel. You won't be sorry!
After the Thaw's premise is fascinating because it is frighteningly possible: a society ravaged by the consequences of unchecked global warming where only those with the innate empathy and intelligence to keep the planet and the race going are allowed to breed. Add characters you can't help fall in love with and smart writing, and you have yourself a series to rival the block busters. Try the free prequel. You won't be sorry!
Want to read
November 23, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (11/23/2019)! 🎁
December 12, 2019
This is how the world could end up within a near future if we don't do something about our way of life - and it's a chilling image. Alaska is now called Askala, and instead of snow and cold it's more like a gigantic greenhouse, where everything grows so rapidly that there's almost no nutrition in the food. The ocean has risen and become acidic and toxic, killing almost every living thing in it.
We follow four teenagers in this dystopian world: Callix, Magnus, Amity and Mercy. The first two are brothers, where Callix has already passed the Proving and become Bound. Now it's Magnus's turn. Amity went through the Proving at the same time as Callix and they've been friends since they were small children. As Bound you have the responsability to save the people and the Earth. You're also expected to produce children in order to increase the population. Almost everyone expect Callix and Amity to pair up, including Callix, but Magnus also has his eyes set on Amity. Mercy is the girl nobody notice, but she sees everything.
I received an ARC from the authors and I'm giving my honest review. At the end of the book you can download bonus chapters and see where the characters are a year later (I did that, of course). The world building reminds me of the Divergent series, but since this is a rather short prequel to After the Thaw series I feel I've seen to little of Askala yet to make an accurent assessment. If you enjoy dystopian YA this is probably a sure thing!
We follow four teenagers in this dystopian world: Callix, Magnus, Amity and Mercy. The first two are brothers, where Callix has already passed the Proving and become Bound. Now it's Magnus's turn. Amity went through the Proving at the same time as Callix and they've been friends since they were small children. As Bound you have the responsability to save the people and the Earth. You're also expected to produce children in order to increase the population. Almost everyone expect Callix and Amity to pair up, including Callix, but Magnus also has his eyes set on Amity. Mercy is the girl nobody notice, but she sees everything.
I received an ARC from the authors and I'm giving my honest review. At the end of the book you can download bonus chapters and see where the characters are a year later (I did that, of course). The world building reminds me of the Divergent series, but since this is a rather short prequel to After the Thaw series I feel I've seen to little of Askala yet to make an accurent assessment. If you enjoy dystopian YA this is probably a sure thing!
January 12, 2020
Epic!
A riveting prequel to this superb -looking series, whose covers alone cannot fail to draw you in. And once inside those pages, what a treat! After The Thaw is a raw and hostile world in its profile, yet brimming with characters you will be rooting for versus curious as to their future development as the trilogy moves on. I'm not the biggest fan of present tense fiction BUT the way this story is so beautifully written, that thought dissolved immediately - and you would never know this book is co-written; it's authors' voices blending seamlessly into a captivating narration. All of which makes it 5 sparkly stars from me as a must-read! So looking forward to the next installment...
A riveting prequel to this superb -looking series, whose covers alone cannot fail to draw you in. And once inside those pages, what a treat! After The Thaw is a raw and hostile world in its profile, yet brimming with characters you will be rooting for versus curious as to their future development as the trilogy moves on. I'm not the biggest fan of present tense fiction BUT the way this story is so beautifully written, that thought dissolved immediately - and you would never know this book is co-written; it's authors' voices blending seamlessly into a captivating narration. All of which makes it 5 sparkly stars from me as a must-read! So looking forward to the next installment...
November 3, 2021
3.5 stars
So excited to start this series!
So excited to start this series!
November 19, 2019
Burning is the prequel to After the Thaw, a new series from Tamar Sloan and Heidi Catherine. I had the opportunity to read an advance copy, and I would like to read the entire series RIGHT NOW.
Burning takes place in Askala, what used to be Alaska, before catastrophe struck on a global scale. Icecaps have thawed and the sea is now toxic. Askala is home to a small population of survivors, connected to what they call the Outlands by one bridge. It's not an easy life, and for those who are selected in the Proving to serve and protect, to lead, it's harder still.
We meet four young people in the story, Callix, Amity, Magnus, and Mercy. Callix and Magnus are brothers. Callix is older, but jealous of Magnus, who seems to have everything break his way. Amity feels everything deeply. Mercy is noticed by few, but she notices much. We see them put into positions where they have to make hard choices and live with the consequences of those choices.
The story is a quick read. It doesn't give the entirety of the setting, but illustrates clearly that Askala is a hard place to live - the world, or what's inhabitable, is a hard place to live. It's a place that doesn't allow the luxury of doing what you want, but sometimes forces you to do what you must.
The characters are well written, and they act like what they are - teenagers. Sometimes they do the right and noble thing, and sometimes they don't. I have a teenager. I see that from him on a regular basis.
I'm not (yet) familiar with a lot of Ms. Sloan's work, but if y'all have read my reviews, y'all know how I feel about Ms. Catherine's Kingdoms of Evernow series. I am thrilled to have the chance to read more of her work, and Burning has me really looking forward to the entire series. The ending - well, I don't know what's coming, but I can see the potential for some major, major conflict. Bring it on.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary advance copy from the author. All opinions here are my own, and I don't say nice things about books I don't like.
Burning takes place in Askala, what used to be Alaska, before catastrophe struck on a global scale. Icecaps have thawed and the sea is now toxic. Askala is home to a small population of survivors, connected to what they call the Outlands by one bridge. It's not an easy life, and for those who are selected in the Proving to serve and protect, to lead, it's harder still.
We meet four young people in the story, Callix, Amity, Magnus, and Mercy. Callix and Magnus are brothers. Callix is older, but jealous of Magnus, who seems to have everything break his way. Amity feels everything deeply. Mercy is noticed by few, but she notices much. We see them put into positions where they have to make hard choices and live with the consequences of those choices.
The story is a quick read. It doesn't give the entirety of the setting, but illustrates clearly that Askala is a hard place to live - the world, or what's inhabitable, is a hard place to live. It's a place that doesn't allow the luxury of doing what you want, but sometimes forces you to do what you must.
The characters are well written, and they act like what they are - teenagers. Sometimes they do the right and noble thing, and sometimes they don't. I have a teenager. I see that from him on a regular basis.
I'm not (yet) familiar with a lot of Ms. Sloan's work, but if y'all have read my reviews, y'all know how I feel about Ms. Catherine's Kingdoms of Evernow series. I am thrilled to have the chance to read more of her work, and Burning has me really looking forward to the entire series. The ending - well, I don't know what's coming, but I can see the potential for some major, major conflict. Bring it on.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary advance copy from the author. All opinions here are my own, and I don't say nice things about books I don't like.
December 9, 2019
An exciting prequel to an interesting new series from two amazing authors that introduces you to this thrilling new world they have created. Set in a world ravaged by global warming, where the ocean has turned acidic and waters rose to cover most of the world, survivors have created a haven on a little piece of what was once known as Alaska and live in a beached cruise ship. They call their home Askala, and see it as their duty to protect the Earth and those in their care. Their society is divided into Bound and Unbound, where only the Bound have the honor of breeding and passing along what they see as superior genes of protection, empathy, and kindness. They are connected to the outside world by a lone bridge, but seldom are outsiders admitted since they often don't possess the character traits they deem necessary for their survival. There are four main characters in this story - brothers Callix and Magnus, Amity, and Mercy. They must balance duty and love while navigating this strange world and their feelings and protecting the secrets some of them have. This is an emotionally-packed story as both brothers are in love with Amity but only one will win her heart and while Mercy loves Callix, her secret forces her to be by another's side. But circumstances occur that threaten the survival of Askala and lead to some major decisions that will effect the future generation. This story is a great introduction to the world and builds the foundation to the series which will focus on the children of the characters in this book. I can't wait to see where this series will go!
November 25, 2019
This is the tantalizing prequel to what i sure is going to be an amazing series called After The Thaw. In a world where everything has been decimated a society has designed a system called the proving. If you pass the proving you to become bound and have the huge responsibility of protecting what left of the world. You also have a duty to provided children for the next generation to protect this world. If your unbound then you loose the privilege to have children but are well taken care of.
This little taste of this series was amazing, it fast paced, really sets the ground work for the series. Your learn all the back story of why things are they way they are. You get to see the next generation of bound and unbound picked and they end of having to make some serious decisions for the future. The bad guys are shown, some secrets are leaked and i am so ready to get the first book. Check out Rising coming January 2020.
January 3, 2020
I got this novella shortly before the holidays and it took me forever to finally find the time to read it but once I did...wow. This is the first story I’ve read in probably two years or more that had me actually trying to stay awake at 2am so I could keep reading. It’s an incredibly intriguing introduction to the series and I absolutely cannot wait to read more. If you’re a fan of YA, particularly dystopian, then this is for you. There is a bit of insta-love as mentioned in another review I read, but the rest of the story was so good that it wasn’t a big turn off for me. I’m excited to see how the story and characters develop in the coming books. Highly recommend! 4.5 stars
February 4, 2022
Wow! Just wow! It's been a long time since I've been so taken with a book! Love, love, love this dystopian novel. Usually I don't binge read series, preferring to read other books in between the books in a particular series. But, my butt has been on the couch for hours as I devour the prequel, the bonus chapters, and now the first book in the series, Rising!
Really good writing, awesome plot, fantastic characters. I give this book way more than 5 stars!
Really good writing, awesome plot, fantastic characters. I give this book way more than 5 stars!
November 19, 2019
Great new series
The biggest problem I have, is that now I have to WAIT for the next one. I don’t like writing spoilers, so I won’t. If you are a fan of YA and dystopian genres, this is an excellent choice. The characters are nicely rounded, complex in some ways, simple in others. It makes this an easy and fast read, without losing quality or dragging on for hours setting up a scene.
Best bet is just to read it. Pretty sure you’ll be hooked as quick as I was.
The biggest problem I have, is that now I have to WAIT for the next one. I don’t like writing spoilers, so I won’t. If you are a fan of YA and dystopian genres, this is an excellent choice. The characters are nicely rounded, complex in some ways, simple in others. It makes this an easy and fast read, without losing quality or dragging on for hours setting up a scene.
Best bet is just to read it. Pretty sure you’ll be hooked as quick as I was.
December 23, 2019
A fantastic dystopian novella and the start to an exciting new series! Brilliant characters, an interesting world and lots of conflict made for a gripping read. Recommended if you love multi-POV stories and dystopian worlds.
January 21, 2020
A beautifully written, gripping journey ideal for anyone who loves The Hunger Games. The characters are fascinating the world-building is second to none. Emotive, engaging and exhilarating, this prequel sets up an amazing series that I can't wait to jump into!
Read
December 20, 2019Wow. Unbelievable. I wasn’t a fan of the Hunger Games, but I’m definitely hooked on this book and more to come I hope. Characters and action work well together.
February 7, 2025
What a cliffhanger!! I can’t wait to read more
January 24, 2020
Okay then
I liked the characters. Callix was my favorite. The way his brother treated him not so mych. A confusing world...
I liked the characters. Callix was my favorite. The way his brother treated him not so mych. A confusing world...
December 10, 2019
I loved it what. A great prequel and now I can’t wait for the rest of the series this was the perfect first taste into a great new world.
What is going to happen with food so short, can the bound keep everyone alive, safe and happy.
There are some great characters in this series that I can’t wait to read more of their development.
What is going to happen with food so short, can the bound keep everyone alive, safe and happy.
There are some great characters in this series that I can’t wait to read more of their development.
November 22, 2019
I saw the cover first and felt immediately drawn to find out more. Upon reading the blurb I knew I didn’t just “want” to read it, I had to read it! I love the dystopian & post-apocalyptic genres so this series instantaneously had me adding it to my “must read” list!
The cover, is bright and attractive and when reading the book, you learn about the bird and its relevance to the characters and their survival. The title fits the book perfectly. Its significance is revealed in the latter part of the prequel. I love a prequel, especially for dystopian & post-apocalyptic series as you learn the basics of the society and discover the world the characters have to live in. This prequel certainly delivers everything you need to know to make you desperate to read the rest of the series.
The book is set after the world has basically gone under what I would describe as climate change. Maybe a prophetic look into the future is we don’t clean up our acts in the world we live in now.
The sea levels have risen, taken back some of the land that people lived on and it is also has become toxic for anyone unlucky enough to find themselves in it for any length of time. Also, in the sea making it even more dangerous are the animal the Aksala people call “leatherskins.”
All those that live in the Oasis have to go through a testing process that takes seven days and consists of three different tests which is called the “Proving”. After the testing is finished, they are presented with a chip that is placed into their hand. They then attend the Announcement Ceremony in front of family, friends both Bound and Unbound where it is revealed what they are, where they will be living, and what the future holds for them. They have to move their hand with the chip above a box with two compartments. Only one compartment will open, one side is empty, which means you are unbound, the other contains a ring, meaning you are bound.
All announcement ceremonies are special to those in them and their families but every twenty years the High Bound retire and hand over their responsibilities to the next generation. Anyone that has become Bound in the last twenty years can take part to see if they are destined to become High Bound.
The “Unbound” live a single life, some would say carefree life on the upper floors of the Oasis. The Unbound seem to live a carefree life, taken care of by the Bound who consider it their duty to look after them.
The “Bound” who are expected to save the earth for the future generations that they must go on to breed. If you are not a “Bound” you are not allowed to have children. Once you are Bound you are expected to pair up with someone and start having children to keep Askala populated. It is the Bound that are in charge of guarding their home perimeter and preventing violent remnants from gaining access to the Oasis.
Then there’s the highest of the society, the “High Bound” who make all the decisions for their people, from how they live, to dealing with banishments and deciding who if anyone from the outside can join their settlement. Those from outside Askala are known as “Remnants” and have to prove themselves before being allowed to join those living in Askala. However, should a remnant manage to sneak their way into Askala and step foot on their land they then have an automatic right to stay.
There’s certainly lots going on in this prequel, remnants needing to be dealt with when they become violent, remnants that throw their child into the toxic see and one bound female cannot fight the urge to attempt to rescue the child despite knowing the risks of entering the toxic ocean. On the romance front there’s one bound female caught in a love triangle between two bound brothers, one brother loves her, but she loves the other brother. Who will she end up settling down with to perform her duty of having children? There is also a couple with a rather large secret, the poor female bound feels her only option is to settle with the male as if not he will reveal her devastating secret. Someone meddles with the only source of food with nutrients with disastrous consequences.
Then we have a banishment of a member of the Askala society, something that is done with a heavy heart for all concerned.
Characters I adored were Kimina, Amity, Magnus and Thea. The character I enjoyed disliking was Ronan! I don’t think he has finished disrupting things yet. Talking of possible future disruptions or problems I am also wary of Callix and Mercy. Could they end up causing problems for the High Bound to sort out.
I knew at around 36% that I was hooked into this book, its different levels of society with its strange rules and expectations was going to be a highly addictive read for me. The traditions and rules of this society have been really well thought out. The “Proving” really fits what the whole testing is about, as it is proving your worth to society, and reveals whether you are considered worthy enough to procreate. I really had to try hard not to whizz through this prequel. I had to make a conscious effort to read it slower. It’s certainly a story worth savouring! I also enjoyed the historic elements with the beached luxury ship called Oasis being in Alaska where the climate should be cold, but had changed beyond all recognition. This luxury ship has now quite literally become the Oasis of those survivors, their chance at survival. I also thought the play on names was brilliant, with the new colony of survivors calling their settlement Askala. I kept looking at the word Askala and thinking why it looked sort of familiar.
My immediate thoughts upon finishing this prequel were
Wow! Love the great world building. Adored Magnus, who is so unassuming. He thinks all the responsibility and important roles and work will be given to his elder brother Callix. Callix is simmering when it becomes clear all that he had hoped for is going to his younger brother, even the girl he loves and wanted to have a family with.
When I finished reading the Prequel, I had a few thoughts about what may be ahead, but then saw that there were bonus chapters available to download and read, sort of like an epilogue. These bonus chapters were interesting to read and yet manage to pose more questions for you to contemplate. I liked meeting the High Bound’s children, the next generation and catching up with the relationships that were still fairly new at the end of the prequel.
Though I did finish reading it with loads of questions and thoughts about what could happen next for the different characters. I mean what a cliff hanger at the very end! What has been changed? What was about to happen? When can I read more? Will those with secrets be found out? It also made me wonder how far in advance, or how much time will have elapsed between the end of the Burning bonus chapters and the beginning of the next book in the series.
So, to sum up I loved it! And when can I read more?
The cover, is bright and attractive and when reading the book, you learn about the bird and its relevance to the characters and their survival. The title fits the book perfectly. Its significance is revealed in the latter part of the prequel. I love a prequel, especially for dystopian & post-apocalyptic series as you learn the basics of the society and discover the world the characters have to live in. This prequel certainly delivers everything you need to know to make you desperate to read the rest of the series.
The book is set after the world has basically gone under what I would describe as climate change. Maybe a prophetic look into the future is we don’t clean up our acts in the world we live in now.
The sea levels have risen, taken back some of the land that people lived on and it is also has become toxic for anyone unlucky enough to find themselves in it for any length of time. Also, in the sea making it even more dangerous are the animal the Aksala people call “leatherskins.”
All those that live in the Oasis have to go through a testing process that takes seven days and consists of three different tests which is called the “Proving”. After the testing is finished, they are presented with a chip that is placed into their hand. They then attend the Announcement Ceremony in front of family, friends both Bound and Unbound where it is revealed what they are, where they will be living, and what the future holds for them. They have to move their hand with the chip above a box with two compartments. Only one compartment will open, one side is empty, which means you are unbound, the other contains a ring, meaning you are bound.
All announcement ceremonies are special to those in them and their families but every twenty years the High Bound retire and hand over their responsibilities to the next generation. Anyone that has become Bound in the last twenty years can take part to see if they are destined to become High Bound.
The “Unbound” live a single life, some would say carefree life on the upper floors of the Oasis. The Unbound seem to live a carefree life, taken care of by the Bound who consider it their duty to look after them.
The “Bound” who are expected to save the earth for the future generations that they must go on to breed. If you are not a “Bound” you are not allowed to have children. Once you are Bound you are expected to pair up with someone and start having children to keep Askala populated. It is the Bound that are in charge of guarding their home perimeter and preventing violent remnants from gaining access to the Oasis.
Then there’s the highest of the society, the “High Bound” who make all the decisions for their people, from how they live, to dealing with banishments and deciding who if anyone from the outside can join their settlement. Those from outside Askala are known as “Remnants” and have to prove themselves before being allowed to join those living in Askala. However, should a remnant manage to sneak their way into Askala and step foot on their land they then have an automatic right to stay.
There’s certainly lots going on in this prequel, remnants needing to be dealt with when they become violent, remnants that throw their child into the toxic see and one bound female cannot fight the urge to attempt to rescue the child despite knowing the risks of entering the toxic ocean. On the romance front there’s one bound female caught in a love triangle between two bound brothers, one brother loves her, but she loves the other brother. Who will she end up settling down with to perform her duty of having children? There is also a couple with a rather large secret, the poor female bound feels her only option is to settle with the male as if not he will reveal her devastating secret. Someone meddles with the only source of food with nutrients with disastrous consequences.
Then we have a banishment of a member of the Askala society, something that is done with a heavy heart for all concerned.
Characters I adored were Kimina, Amity, Magnus and Thea. The character I enjoyed disliking was Ronan! I don’t think he has finished disrupting things yet. Talking of possible future disruptions or problems I am also wary of Callix and Mercy. Could they end up causing problems for the High Bound to sort out.
I knew at around 36% that I was hooked into this book, its different levels of society with its strange rules and expectations was going to be a highly addictive read for me. The traditions and rules of this society have been really well thought out. The “Proving” really fits what the whole testing is about, as it is proving your worth to society, and reveals whether you are considered worthy enough to procreate. I really had to try hard not to whizz through this prequel. I had to make a conscious effort to read it slower. It’s certainly a story worth savouring! I also enjoyed the historic elements with the beached luxury ship called Oasis being in Alaska where the climate should be cold, but had changed beyond all recognition. This luxury ship has now quite literally become the Oasis of those survivors, their chance at survival. I also thought the play on names was brilliant, with the new colony of survivors calling their settlement Askala. I kept looking at the word Askala and thinking why it looked sort of familiar.
My immediate thoughts upon finishing this prequel were
Wow! Love the great world building. Adored Magnus, who is so unassuming. He thinks all the responsibility and important roles and work will be given to his elder brother Callix. Callix is simmering when it becomes clear all that he had hoped for is going to his younger brother, even the girl he loves and wanted to have a family with.
When I finished reading the Prequel, I had a few thoughts about what may be ahead, but then saw that there were bonus chapters available to download and read, sort of like an epilogue. These bonus chapters were interesting to read and yet manage to pose more questions for you to contemplate. I liked meeting the High Bound’s children, the next generation and catching up with the relationships that were still fairly new at the end of the prequel.
Though I did finish reading it with loads of questions and thoughts about what could happen next for the different characters. I mean what a cliff hanger at the very end! What has been changed? What was about to happen? When can I read more? Will those with secrets be found out? It also made me wonder how far in advance, or how much time will have elapsed between the end of the Burning bonus chapters and the beginning of the next book in the series.
So, to sum up I loved it! And when can I read more?
April 26, 2020
I didn't love this as much as I was hoping to. I saw quite a few people give this really high praise, and it caught my attention. I thought for sure it would blow my mind. I'm super sad that it didn't.
It's been a while since I read a dystopian. They all started to feel the same after a while, and this one didn't really stand out much, either. It was interesting, but not particularly unique. Some parts of the world building felt a little vague and I would have liked to see a bit more backstory, but maybe we get that in the first book. This is just a prequel, after all. I suppose for a novella, I had a decent understanding of the world.
I wanted to connect to the characters a lot more than I did. I didn't really care about any of them, they were bland and uninspiring. Even when things were happening, I didn't really feel much at all. The romance didn't do anything for me, either. I think my main issue with being able to connect to the story was the prose. It wasn't bad writing, it was just a bit dry and formal and that alone created a disconnect. I am also not a fan of third person OR present tense, so the combination of both might have brought it down a bit more for me personally. It wasn't poorly done, though! It's an interesting combination that you don't see very often.
For as short as the story was, there was a lot going on. I can definitely see where it could be setting up for the next book, and despite a bit of apathy toward this novella, I am interested in continuing to see where the story goes.
It's been a while since I read a dystopian. They all started to feel the same after a while, and this one didn't really stand out much, either. It was interesting, but not particularly unique. Some parts of the world building felt a little vague and I would have liked to see a bit more backstory, but maybe we get that in the first book. This is just a prequel, after all. I suppose for a novella, I had a decent understanding of the world.
I wanted to connect to the characters a lot more than I did. I didn't really care about any of them, they were bland and uninspiring. Even when things were happening, I didn't really feel much at all. The romance didn't do anything for me, either. I think my main issue with being able to connect to the story was the prose. It wasn't bad writing, it was just a bit dry and formal and that alone created a disconnect. I am also not a fan of third person OR present tense, so the combination of both might have brought it down a bit more for me personally. It wasn't poorly done, though! It's an interesting combination that you don't see very often.
For as short as the story was, there was a lot going on. I can definitely see where it could be setting up for the next book, and despite a bit of apathy toward this novella, I am interested in continuing to see where the story goes.
September 8, 2025
Breeding is only for those who are chosen.
In this new world isolated by a rising, toxic sea, just a single bridge is left connecting Askala to the Outlands. All those who remain will have to pass a Proving to determine if they have the intelligence and the heart to champion the future of their now broken Earth.
For those who pass the Proving and succeed will become Bound, they are the ones who are chosen to breed.
For those who fail, they are the Unbound. They are free of responsibility, but they are robbed of their choice and their ability to have kids.
Four young lives are born into this world. Magnus and Callix, are two brothers who are determined to uphold this new order that this world is bound to. And both Magnus and Callix are in love with the same girl.
Amity, is the one who is faced with making the impossible choice.
And Mercy, she's the girl who nobody sees, but she sees everything around her.
Now a new threat to Askala is emerging, and secrets are bubbling to the surface just waiting to be revealed. And the fight for survival is about to become their biggest challenge yet.
Everyone is about to be reminded that life is so fragile. And love will grow and refuse to be denied.
But, sacrifice is going to be inevitable.
Lovers of Divergent, The Hunger Games, and The Maze Runner will be blown away by the breathtaking new series from USA Today best-selling author Tamar Sloan and award-winning author Heidi Catherine.
Burning is the Prequel to the Thaw Chronicles by Tamar Sloan and Heidi Catherine. I found that this book was on par with The Hunger Games. This is the introduction to the Thaw Chronicles and I can't wait to dive into After the Thaw and see if this is going to be one of those great dystopian fantasies.
The Earth is broken. Humanity broke it with the overuse of plastic and pollution. And what's left of it struggles to survive.
Askala is a small haven that has survived the end.
It was once known as Alaska, it was home to frigid winters and the landscape was that of molded by ice. But, what's left now is just a temperate island that's covered in forests of pine.
Snow and cold are nothing but a fable now. Something that no one remembers anymore.
The snow and cold were supposed to have existed before. Before the fires, the storms, before the loss of all the sentient lives that once lived upon the land.
Askala is now nothing more than an isolated island by the toxic sea, all that connects it to the Outlands is just a single bridge. To be a part of Askala, you have to prove your worth. This is because the survivors have realized their mistakes of the past and now they are bound and determined to restore what little is left, and they want to make sure the Earth is never destroyed like this ever again.
The survivors who have made Askala home have decreed that Outlanders are not to set foot on Askala. The survivors know they can't trust the Outlanders to keep the law and peace that the survivors have created. And the survivors who now call themselves Askalans, find that they all need to prove that they are worthy, not only to each other but to the land, before they can lead this new kind of normal life.
Each Askalan will have to pass what they call the Proving to determine if they have the heart, the strength, and the intelligence to champion the future of the now broken Earth. Those who manage to pass the Proving, are the ones who will become the Bound, they are the ones who are chosen to breed and help repopulate the Earth. The others, the ones who fail, they are the Unbound. They are the ones who are free of any responsibility, but they are also robbed of their ability to bear children.
In this quick read, we get the opportunity to meet four young people, Callix, Amity, Magnus, and Mercy. Callix and Magnus are two brothers with Callix being the older of the two brothers but he seems to be jealous of his younger brother Magnus who it appears has been given everything and it all breaks his way.
Amity is the type of girl who feels everything so much more deeply than most others her age. Sometimes Amity thinks she feels things too deeply than she should.
Mercy is the girl whom very few people ever notice. But, while no one is paying attention to her, she is paying attention to everyone else and she notices everything and everyone and what they are doing.
And through this short quick read, we are given the chance to see Callix, Magnus, Amity, and Mercy be put in situations and positions where they are forced to make some of the hardest choices that they have ever had to face and they are then forced to live with the consequences of those choices.
When we first meet the characters here, they are just teenagers. And if you know teenagers they don't always do the right thing or the noble thing. Yes, there are times that they will do what is right and noble. But, that's not a regular thing. But, that's just a typical teenage aspect.
While we don't get the full scope of the setting, we do get the picture that Askala is not the easiest place to live – this new world, or at least what is left of it and is an inhabitable, it a hard taxing place to live. There is no place for luxury, no doing what you want, there's just doing what you have to do, what you are forced into doing.
I found this to be an interesting book that was written in a really easy-to-follow format with a highly enjoyable narrative. I found that this would be a perfect read for anyone who enjoyed The Hunger Games and The Maze Runner.
Burning contains all the drama that you could want with a few fun soap-opera type of moments, but in the end, it is well written and is bound to keep you enthralled until you have read the very last word.
It is highly enjoyable, intriguing, and Tamar and Heidi have included enough twists, turns, and surprises that we don't see coming that will ensure that we keep reading the entire series and wanting more and more until there isn't any more to read.
In this new world isolated by a rising, toxic sea, just a single bridge is left connecting Askala to the Outlands. All those who remain will have to pass a Proving to determine if they have the intelligence and the heart to champion the future of their now broken Earth.
For those who pass the Proving and succeed will become Bound, they are the ones who are chosen to breed.
For those who fail, they are the Unbound. They are free of responsibility, but they are robbed of their choice and their ability to have kids.
Four young lives are born into this world. Magnus and Callix, are two brothers who are determined to uphold this new order that this world is bound to. And both Magnus and Callix are in love with the same girl.
Amity, is the one who is faced with making the impossible choice.
And Mercy, she's the girl who nobody sees, but she sees everything around her.
Now a new threat to Askala is emerging, and secrets are bubbling to the surface just waiting to be revealed. And the fight for survival is about to become their biggest challenge yet.
Everyone is about to be reminded that life is so fragile. And love will grow and refuse to be denied.
But, sacrifice is going to be inevitable.
Lovers of Divergent, The Hunger Games, and The Maze Runner will be blown away by the breathtaking new series from USA Today best-selling author Tamar Sloan and award-winning author Heidi Catherine.
Burning is the Prequel to the Thaw Chronicles by Tamar Sloan and Heidi Catherine. I found that this book was on par with The Hunger Games. This is the introduction to the Thaw Chronicles and I can't wait to dive into After the Thaw and see if this is going to be one of those great dystopian fantasies.
The Earth is broken. Humanity broke it with the overuse of plastic and pollution. And what's left of it struggles to survive.
Askala is a small haven that has survived the end.
It was once known as Alaska, it was home to frigid winters and the landscape was that of molded by ice. But, what's left now is just a temperate island that's covered in forests of pine.
Snow and cold are nothing but a fable now. Something that no one remembers anymore.
The snow and cold were supposed to have existed before. Before the fires, the storms, before the loss of all the sentient lives that once lived upon the land.
Askala is now nothing more than an isolated island by the toxic sea, all that connects it to the Outlands is just a single bridge. To be a part of Askala, you have to prove your worth. This is because the survivors have realized their mistakes of the past and now they are bound and determined to restore what little is left, and they want to make sure the Earth is never destroyed like this ever again.
The survivors who have made Askala home have decreed that Outlanders are not to set foot on Askala. The survivors know they can't trust the Outlanders to keep the law and peace that the survivors have created. And the survivors who now call themselves Askalans, find that they all need to prove that they are worthy, not only to each other but to the land, before they can lead this new kind of normal life.
Each Askalan will have to pass what they call the Proving to determine if they have the heart, the strength, and the intelligence to champion the future of the now broken Earth. Those who manage to pass the Proving, are the ones who will become the Bound, they are the ones who are chosen to breed and help repopulate the Earth. The others, the ones who fail, they are the Unbound. They are the ones who are free of any responsibility, but they are also robbed of their ability to bear children.
In this quick read, we get the opportunity to meet four young people, Callix, Amity, Magnus, and Mercy. Callix and Magnus are two brothers with Callix being the older of the two brothers but he seems to be jealous of his younger brother Magnus who it appears has been given everything and it all breaks his way.
Amity is the type of girl who feels everything so much more deeply than most others her age. Sometimes Amity thinks she feels things too deeply than she should.
Mercy is the girl whom very few people ever notice. But, while no one is paying attention to her, she is paying attention to everyone else and she notices everything and everyone and what they are doing.
And through this short quick read, we are given the chance to see Callix, Magnus, Amity, and Mercy be put in situations and positions where they are forced to make some of the hardest choices that they have ever had to face and they are then forced to live with the consequences of those choices.
When we first meet the characters here, they are just teenagers. And if you know teenagers they don't always do the right thing or the noble thing. Yes, there are times that they will do what is right and noble. But, that's not a regular thing. But, that's just a typical teenage aspect.
While we don't get the full scope of the setting, we do get the picture that Askala is not the easiest place to live – this new world, or at least what is left of it and is an inhabitable, it a hard taxing place to live. There is no place for luxury, no doing what you want, there's just doing what you have to do, what you are forced into doing.
I found this to be an interesting book that was written in a really easy-to-follow format with a highly enjoyable narrative. I found that this would be a perfect read for anyone who enjoyed The Hunger Games and The Maze Runner.
Burning contains all the drama that you could want with a few fun soap-opera type of moments, but in the end, it is well written and is bound to keep you enthralled until you have read the very last word.
It is highly enjoyable, intriguing, and Tamar and Heidi have included enough twists, turns, and surprises that we don't see coming that will ensure that we keep reading the entire series and wanting more and more until there isn't any more to read.
December 16, 2019
“Burning - After the Thaw” is the first book in a new YA dystopian fiction series by Tamar Sloan & Heidi Catharine. The book is in fact a prequel to the upcoming Burning Series Trilogy to be release January 2020 to April 2020.
The story is fresh and captivating, setting in destroyed world which has become nearly inhabitable due to climate change, it follows the life of the last survivors, who seek refuge in Askala (the Alaska of the future) after the rising oceans devoured the land and the waters turned acidic. Once there and to enable the survival of the human race they made some drastic changes to society, divided the habitants and Bound and Unbound, while defending their land from the attacks of the Remnants (wild humans that endanger their way of life).
The book centers on two brothers (Callix and Magnus) and two girls (Amity and Mercy) closely intertwined with them and tells the story of how the decisions that will shape the future generations were taken.
The plot is not only entertaining but most interesting, with some very carefully chosen premises: Askala = Alaska as the final retreat of humanity after a world cataclysm that almost destroys the land is brilliant, and terrifying. The related events have the necessary amount of fantasy while keeping enough credibility to make them relatable. The writing is both rich and fluid. One of the best YA dystopian series of all times.
The story is fresh and captivating, setting in destroyed world which has become nearly inhabitable due to climate change, it follows the life of the last survivors, who seek refuge in Askala (the Alaska of the future) after the rising oceans devoured the land and the waters turned acidic. Once there and to enable the survival of the human race they made some drastic changes to society, divided the habitants and Bound and Unbound, while defending their land from the attacks of the Remnants (wild humans that endanger their way of life).
The book centers on two brothers (Callix and Magnus) and two girls (Amity and Mercy) closely intertwined with them and tells the story of how the decisions that will shape the future generations were taken.
The plot is not only entertaining but most interesting, with some very carefully chosen premises: Askala = Alaska as the final retreat of humanity after a world cataclysm that almost destroys the land is brilliant, and terrifying. The related events have the necessary amount of fantasy while keeping enough credibility to make them relatable. The writing is both rich and fluid. One of the best YA dystopian series of all times.
November 23, 2019
Only the chosen shall breed.
In a new world isolated by a rising, toxic sea, a single bridge connects Askala to the Outlands. Those who remain will need to pass a Proving to determine if they have the intelligence and heart to champion the future of their broken Earth.
Those who succeed will become Bound, the ones chosen to breed.
Those who fail, are Unbound. Free of responsibility, but robbed of their ability to bear children.
Four young lives are born into this world. Magnus and Callix, two brothers determined to uphold this new order. Two brothers in love with the same girl.
Amity, the one who must make the impossible choice.
And Mercy, the girl who no one sees, but sees it all.
As a new threat to Askala emerges, secrets will be revealed and the fight for survival will become their biggest challenge yet.
Life is fragile. Love will refuse to be denied.
Sacrifice will be inevitable.
This was a great dystopian ya read.
Well written plot and story line that I found very engaging from the start.
Characters are well fleshed out and relatable.
I can't wait to read more about them throughout the series.
Twists and turns with some action and suspense keep you engaged throughout the story.
Waiting patiently for the next one in the series to happen to find out what happens next.
Recommend reading highly.
In a new world isolated by a rising, toxic sea, a single bridge connects Askala to the Outlands. Those who remain will need to pass a Proving to determine if they have the intelligence and heart to champion the future of their broken Earth.
Those who succeed will become Bound, the ones chosen to breed.
Those who fail, are Unbound. Free of responsibility, but robbed of their ability to bear children.
Four young lives are born into this world. Magnus and Callix, two brothers determined to uphold this new order. Two brothers in love with the same girl.
Amity, the one who must make the impossible choice.
And Mercy, the girl who no one sees, but sees it all.
As a new threat to Askala emerges, secrets will be revealed and the fight for survival will become their biggest challenge yet.
Life is fragile. Love will refuse to be denied.
Sacrifice will be inevitable.
This was a great dystopian ya read.
Well written plot and story line that I found very engaging from the start.
Characters are well fleshed out and relatable.
I can't wait to read more about them throughout the series.
Twists and turns with some action and suspense keep you engaged throughout the story.
Waiting patiently for the next one in the series to happen to find out what happens next.
Recommend reading highly.
December 10, 2019
This is a novella for a trilogy from what I believe, I received this book for an honest review.
This book series is about people who are bound and unbound. They are based in a place called Askala which I believe is either a misspelling of Alaska or the new dystopian version.
So either way this little village/town is trying to save the population and the existing animals in a way. So the bound have a higher ground they can have all medical treatment to extend their life, but there is one condition they have to produce children with another bound person so they can keep the population going. Where as the unbound are not allowed to have children, if they get ill they are only allowed medicine to take the pain away and make their life more comfortable not to actually extend it.
So the actual concept of this book was pretty good, I enjoyed the storyline and the introduction to the series. The characters were okay, I felt like the didn’t really develop much but maybe if they are in the main series I will find that they have developed. I think the only person that developed was Amity, but that was just because she discovered love and what it actually was. At times Magnus and Callix do get on my nerves, especially Callix. He just sort of seems that stuck up kid eventhough it’s his brother Magnus that is supposed to be stuck up. Callix is just a very jealous character and I’m not entirely sure how I actually feel about him right not. I feel some of the things he does is sweet and how he hides his feelings but then other times the things he says really annoys me.
The concept of the story is quite realistic with all this climate change talk i imagine some of the places in many years will actually be like this. I also feel like certain areas will be secluded just like Askala and people from other towns will not be allowed in.
I’m not too sure whether I will actually carry on with the series I will more than likely if I feel like I have nothing to read in the new year or if they are on special offer.
This book series is about people who are bound and unbound. They are based in a place called Askala which I believe is either a misspelling of Alaska or the new dystopian version.
So either way this little village/town is trying to save the population and the existing animals in a way. So the bound have a higher ground they can have all medical treatment to extend their life, but there is one condition they have to produce children with another bound person so they can keep the population going. Where as the unbound are not allowed to have children, if they get ill they are only allowed medicine to take the pain away and make their life more comfortable not to actually extend it.
So the actual concept of this book was pretty good, I enjoyed the storyline and the introduction to the series. The characters were okay, I felt like the didn’t really develop much but maybe if they are in the main series I will find that they have developed. I think the only person that developed was Amity, but that was just because she discovered love and what it actually was. At times Magnus and Callix do get on my nerves, especially Callix. He just sort of seems that stuck up kid eventhough it’s his brother Magnus that is supposed to be stuck up. Callix is just a very jealous character and I’m not entirely sure how I actually feel about him right not. I feel some of the things he does is sweet and how he hides his feelings but then other times the things he says really annoys me.
The concept of the story is quite realistic with all this climate change talk i imagine some of the places in many years will actually be like this. I also feel like certain areas will be secluded just like Askala and people from other towns will not be allowed in.
I’m not too sure whether I will actually carry on with the series I will more than likely if I feel like I have nothing to read in the new year or if they are on special offer.
December 3, 2019
Well... I’m hooked. I can honestly say that I didn’t want to be hooked because this has intense drama written all over it, the soap opera kind, and it’s not really where I run for my entertainment reading. BUT... this was fascinating and over too soon. These characters are complex, and feel very real. They are experiencing emotions that we’ve all felt, making hard decisions that year them up, like we all do (though not usually on that scale).
The world that has been built for this story is entirely believable, if maybe just a little preachy, but still it’s easy to see how this post apocalyptic world has come to be.
I want more of this story, I’m hungry for it. I want to know how these complex relationships are going to play out, and how they effect Askala, and the world that community is trying to create. So, this is a solid win for me, I’m all in, downloading the bonus content now so that I can then dive into the rest of the series!
It definitely has a Divergent meets Hunger Games feel to it, where people are forced to play a role they don’t necessarily fit into, and survival requires brutality, both physically and emotionally. If you enjoy those dystopian stories, I’m confident you’ll enjoy this as well.
The world that has been built for this story is entirely believable, if maybe just a little preachy, but still it’s easy to see how this post apocalyptic world has come to be.
I want more of this story, I’m hungry for it. I want to know how these complex relationships are going to play out, and how they effect Askala, and the world that community is trying to create. So, this is a solid win for me, I’m all in, downloading the bonus content now so that I can then dive into the rest of the series!
It definitely has a Divergent meets Hunger Games feel to it, where people are forced to play a role they don’t necessarily fit into, and survival requires brutality, both physically and emotionally. If you enjoy those dystopian stories, I’m confident you’ll enjoy this as well.
August 27, 2022
Excellent little prequel!
I rather enjoyed getting to know a bit more history about Askala and the Proving in more detail than what was revealed in the main series. I kinda wish I read this first before the rest so it could have ALL been a surprise, but oh well. I'm just glad that I was still able to enjoy it despite already knowing many of the details, and that's saying something.
What I appreciated the most, of course, was being introduced to the teenage versions of Callix, Magnus, Mercy, and Amity, and how their lives intertwined. Though I must admit, I felt so very bad for Mercy's side of things. As if her tale wouldn't become tragic enough as it is in her future after birthing Dex, I felt even more twinges of sympathy for her in this entry, being so in love with Callix when he was fixated on Amity, knowing (and eventually accepting) that she'd been his second choice. Sure, he eventually did come to love her (as is revealed in later entries), but...still.
At any rate, this is expectedly a short book, but it revealed just the right amount of foundation to the remaining series. The only thing leaving me disgruntled is not knowing what the bonus chapters reveal (which take place a year later from the final chapter). I followed the necessary steps to acquire them, but only ended up getting the prequel itself sent to me again. No bonus chapters, which I'm betting have Dex, Kian, and Nova as toddlers. Guess I'll never know. :(
I rather enjoyed getting to know a bit more history about Askala and the Proving in more detail than what was revealed in the main series. I kinda wish I read this first before the rest so it could have ALL been a surprise, but oh well. I'm just glad that I was still able to enjoy it despite already knowing many of the details, and that's saying something.
What I appreciated the most, of course, was being introduced to the teenage versions of Callix, Magnus, Mercy, and Amity, and how their lives intertwined. Though I must admit, I felt so very bad for Mercy's side of things. As if her tale wouldn't become tragic enough as it is in her future after birthing Dex, I felt even more twinges of sympathy for her in this entry, being so in love with Callix when he was fixated on Amity, knowing (and eventually accepting) that she'd been his second choice. Sure, he eventually did come to love her (as is revealed in later entries), but...still.
At any rate, this is expectedly a short book, but it revealed just the right amount of foundation to the remaining series. The only thing leaving me disgruntled is not knowing what the bonus chapters reveal (which take place a year later from the final chapter). I followed the necessary steps to acquire them, but only ended up getting the prequel itself sent to me again. No bonus chapters, which I'm betting have Dex, Kian, and Nova as toddlers. Guess I'll never know. :(
December 1, 2019
Super short prequel that leaves you wanting to know more about the world. I loved the idea of this being a world where our abuse of the planet has given us insane outcomes. There is no more snow in Alaska, there is no more wide variety of animals, and worst of all? The oceans are acidic. The opening to this book is intense and gives you an idea of the desperation at this point in time.
There are only two things that hindered me from enjoying this book more than I could have, the insta love and the fact that Callix becomes a brood monster. He is so jealous of everything else instead of just TRYING to be better. Ugh. He pretty much just puts poor
I'm excited to read this trilogy and see more about the Proving!
This prequel is currently free on kindle, you can get your link here. https://www.amazon.com/Burning-Preque...
There are only two things that hindered me from enjoying this book more than I could have, the insta love and the fact that Callix becomes a brood monster. He is so jealous of everything else instead of just TRYING to be better. Ugh. He pretty much just puts poor
I'm excited to read this trilogy and see more about the Proving!
This prequel is currently free on kindle, you can get your link here. https://www.amazon.com/Burning-Preque...
December 25, 2019
Alaska is the place that is left behind after a catastrophic happening that has ruined Earth. There are more places but this is the settled area kept alive with nurturing . Anyone who lives or is born here must pass a Proving when of age to determine abilities and purity. Those who are succsessful will become Bound, the ones chosen to breed. For those who do not succeed in the proving they are Released from any responsibilities in the running and protecting of Alakala but they can never have children either.Magnus and Callix are brothers , one a stick by the rules person the other determined to recreate a gentler more compassionate place. And they are both in love with the same girl.Amity has a special gift although she has yet to discover it. Mercy is the girl always overlooked and wanting to be accepted and will do anything to make that happen. Then something happens that will shatter all their lives and determine who the strong really are and set into motion a new path that will remake all of them. Fabulous prequel can’t wait for more!
November 27, 2019
Wow. Just WOW!
This is an AMAZING prequel!
We follow four characters in this prequel: Amity, Magnus, Callix, and Mercy. The setting is a post-apocalyptic world that has gone toxic, and hard choices must be made for them to survive. They are what are known as Bound, they are the chosen that may bear children to repopulate and save the world. There are others known as Unbound, that are incapable of having children.
The choice of writing style took a little while to get used to, but that just adds to this story's charm! Everything is described beautifully, and with such detail, you can see that the author/s took their time to plan this story to the tiniest detail. They paint a wonderful, dangerous world that I could close my eyes and imagine.
This story isn't your typical post-apocalyptic tale of survival, it's got it's own twists and turns. Odd, yet strangely satisfying. I thoroughly enjoyed this prequel, and cannot WAIT to get my hands on the next books!
This is an AMAZING prequel!
We follow four characters in this prequel: Amity, Magnus, Callix, and Mercy. The setting is a post-apocalyptic world that has gone toxic, and hard choices must be made for them to survive. They are what are known as Bound, they are the chosen that may bear children to repopulate and save the world. There are others known as Unbound, that are incapable of having children.
The choice of writing style took a little while to get used to, but that just adds to this story's charm! Everything is described beautifully, and with such detail, you can see that the author/s took their time to plan this story to the tiniest detail. They paint a wonderful, dangerous world that I could close my eyes and imagine.
This story isn't your typical post-apocalyptic tale of survival, it's got it's own twists and turns. Odd, yet strangely satisfying. I thoroughly enjoyed this prequel, and cannot WAIT to get my hands on the next books!
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