What do you think?
Rate this book
The Thaw Chronicles #1
Rising: After the Thaw
Four tests. Seven days. Nine teens.
Only the chosen shall breed.
Humans now live in a super greenhouse. Seas have risen. Oceans have acidified. And the fight for resources is deadly. To ensure nothing of this magnitude ever happens again, only those with enough intelligence and heart will earn the right to bear children and heal the earth.
Nine teens must face the tests of the Proving to decide who will be Bound to this new order. Four of them will challenge the system in ways even they can’t imagine.
Nova. The gentle soul who has everything to lose.
Kian. The champion of this new world who’s determined to succeed.
Dex. The one who'll learn nothing is as it seems.
Wren. The rebel who wants nothing to do with any of it.
As the fight to breed becomes a fight to survive, rules are broken, and hearts are captured. This Proving won’t just decide the future of this new order, it will decide the future of humankind.
Only the chosen shall breed.
Humans now live in a super greenhouse. Seas have risen. Oceans have acidified. And the fight for resources is deadly. To ensure nothing of this magnitude ever happens again, only those with enough intelligence and heart will earn the right to bear children and heal the earth.
Nine teens must face the tests of the Proving to decide who will be Bound to this new order. Four of them will challenge the system in ways even they can’t imagine.
Nova. The gentle soul who has everything to lose.
Kian. The champion of this new world who’s determined to succeed.
Dex. The one who'll learn nothing is as it seems.
Wren. The rebel who wants nothing to do with any of it.
As the fight to breed becomes a fight to survive, rules are broken, and hearts are captured. This Proving won’t just decide the future of this new order, it will decide the future of humankind.
300 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 3, 2020
2541 people are currently reading
4731 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.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 179 reviews
September 11, 2025
2.5 ✨
YA Dystopian
Four tests. Seven days. Nine teens.
Only the chosen shall breed.
📚 Book Source 📚
Kindle Unlimited
🌎climate change
🌎dystopian
🌎post apocalyptic
🌎testing
🌎romance
🌎no-spice
Humans now live in a super greenhouse. Seas have risen. Oceans have acidified. And the fight for resources is deadly. To ensure nothing of this magnitude ever happens again, only those with enough intelligence and heart will earn the right to bear children and heal the earth.
Nine teens must face the tests of the Proving to decide who will be Bound to this new order. Four of them will challenge the system in ways even they can’t imagine.
This was just another okay semi entertaining read for me. I really enjoy a good dystopian and this one, while it does have promise, I found a lot of inconsistencies and things that did not add up or make sense in this environment. For instance sharks can survive in acid oceans, but fish can’t?Also would like to know how some species made it, but not others… The book includes 2 factions Bound and Unbound-but we get absolutely no info on the unbound? The characters felt undeveloped and I didn’t feel a connection with any of them. Seeing as this is a 10 book series, I’m sure it has the potential to grow and mature in its plot and themes with each book - but I don’t think I will be continuing.
YA Dystopian
Four tests. Seven days. Nine teens.
Only the chosen shall breed.
📚 Book Source 📚
Kindle Unlimited
🌎climate change
🌎dystopian
🌎post apocalyptic
🌎testing
🌎romance
🌎no-spice
Humans now live in a super greenhouse. Seas have risen. Oceans have acidified. And the fight for resources is deadly. To ensure nothing of this magnitude ever happens again, only those with enough intelligence and heart will earn the right to bear children and heal the earth.
Nine teens must face the tests of the Proving to decide who will be Bound to this new order. Four of them will challenge the system in ways even they can’t imagine.
This was just another okay semi entertaining read for me. I really enjoy a good dystopian and this one, while it does have promise, I found a lot of inconsistencies and things that did not add up or make sense in this environment. For instance sharks can survive in acid oceans, but fish can’t?Also would like to know how some species made it, but not others… The book includes 2 factions Bound and Unbound-but we get absolutely no info on the unbound? The characters felt undeveloped and I didn’t feel a connection with any of them. Seeing as this is a 10 book series, I’m sure it has the potential to grow and mature in its plot and themes with each book - but I don’t think I will be continuing.
May 1, 2020
„Rising“ is the first full length book on the upcoming Burning Series (a prequel “Burning. After the Thaw” is also available. The events of Burning take place seventeen years after the prequel and show the further development in Askala’s society. The previously knowledge of event related in the prequel is not necessary to fully enjoy the story, as all pertinent information is given in “Rising”. Nevertheless, I would recommend reading both (whichever the order) as the story is highly interesting and does not overlap.
Askala, is in fact Alaska in an undetermined future, after a climatic cataclysm has rendered the planet for the most part inhabitable. The survivors have created a new society based on the capability of each one of them to improve the living environment and heal the planet. To do so the members of the community are divided in Bounded and Unbounded. Only the Bounded are allowed to actively shape the society and procreate, while the Unbounded are “well cared for”. A closely look shows that not everything is so straightforward as the ones in charge would like everybody to believe. To assure that only the worthy become Bounded, every person must go through the Proving at the age of 16, the outcome of this test will determine his or her position in society.
Outside of Askala, which is surrounded by an acidic ocean, there are also survivors, called Remnants, which way of life is supposedly violent and threat to the environment, the ground the Askalans cut all bridges to the mainland. However, every Remnant that successfully reach the beach of Askala (after sailing in an acidic ocean and surviving the attack of shark-like creatures) is allowed to stay.
“Rising” tells the story of the 9 teenagers, who must endure this year’s proving. Three of them (Dex, Kian and Nova) are the children of the main characters depicted in the prequel, who are joined by five other Askalans (Shiloh, Fern, Felicia, Jay and Thom) and a recently stranded Remnant (Wren).
“Rising” is without doubt the best dystopian series I have ever read, is highly entertaining, a page turner (I literally could not put it down until the very last page), and great adventure. But what really sets “Rising” apart, is the very carefully crafted world, with the right amount of dystopia and social critique, that keeps the reader constantly questioning the values and drawbacks of the system.
The characters, even the secondary ones, are tridimensional and serve purpose to the story. The main characters (Dex, Kian, Nova and Wren) are likeable and steal our hearts in different ways, but also the secondary characters, even the unlikable ones behave in a comprehensible way, that allow the reader to understand the strengths and flaws of the system.
Tamar Sloan and Heidi Catherine have created a wonderful world, beautiful and terrifying at the same time. Their writing is fluid and nuanced, with a very good editing and a powerful message, all of it embedded in a fantastic story.
Askala, is in fact Alaska in an undetermined future, after a climatic cataclysm has rendered the planet for the most part inhabitable. The survivors have created a new society based on the capability of each one of them to improve the living environment and heal the planet. To do so the members of the community are divided in Bounded and Unbounded. Only the Bounded are allowed to actively shape the society and procreate, while the Unbounded are “well cared for”. A closely look shows that not everything is so straightforward as the ones in charge would like everybody to believe. To assure that only the worthy become Bounded, every person must go through the Proving at the age of 16, the outcome of this test will determine his or her position in society.
Outside of Askala, which is surrounded by an acidic ocean, there are also survivors, called Remnants, which way of life is supposedly violent and threat to the environment, the ground the Askalans cut all bridges to the mainland. However, every Remnant that successfully reach the beach of Askala (after sailing in an acidic ocean and surviving the attack of shark-like creatures) is allowed to stay.
“Rising” tells the story of the 9 teenagers, who must endure this year’s proving. Three of them (Dex, Kian and Nova) are the children of the main characters depicted in the prequel, who are joined by five other Askalans (Shiloh, Fern, Felicia, Jay and Thom) and a recently stranded Remnant (Wren).
“Rising” is without doubt the best dystopian series I have ever read, is highly entertaining, a page turner (I literally could not put it down until the very last page), and great adventure. But what really sets “Rising” apart, is the very carefully crafted world, with the right amount of dystopia and social critique, that keeps the reader constantly questioning the values and drawbacks of the system.
The characters, even the secondary ones, are tridimensional and serve purpose to the story. The main characters (Dex, Kian, Nova and Wren) are likeable and steal our hearts in different ways, but also the secondary characters, even the unlikable ones behave in a comprehensible way, that allow the reader to understand the strengths and flaws of the system.
Tamar Sloan and Heidi Catherine have created a wonderful world, beautiful and terrifying at the same time. Their writing is fluid and nuanced, with a very good editing and a powerful message, all of it embedded in a fantastic story.
January 31, 2020
After mankind destroyed the Earth there's a place called Askala (formerly known as Alaska) where people try to save it. When they turn 16 they have to go through the Proving, to determine who will become Bound and who will be Unbound. Only the smartest and most caring will be Bound, because they are responsible for everyones survival. Here we follow Kian, Dex, Nova and Wren before and during their Proving.
In the prequel, Burning, we were told about the Proving, but we didn't get any information about the tests included. It's very interesting to follow these kids and learn what they have to go through. It wasn't always easy to understand how well they "scored" on the tests, but I had my mind set on the outcome. Or so I thought... I really enjoy being surprised once in a while, and I guess you can say that I got a couple of surprises along the way!
There are a lot of dystopian YA books out there, but I must say that it feels like Sloan and Catherine have managed to come up with something new and fresh. There are bits and pieces that remind me of The Hunger Games and Divirgent, for example, but they've made it their own, which is quite an accomplishment. I'm looking forward to reading the next book!
*I received an ARC from the authors and I'm giving my honest review.*
In the prequel, Burning, we were told about the Proving, but we didn't get any information about the tests included. It's very interesting to follow these kids and learn what they have to go through. It wasn't always easy to understand how well they "scored" on the tests, but I had my mind set on the outcome. Or so I thought... I really enjoy being surprised once in a while, and I guess you can say that I got a couple of surprises along the way!
There are a lot of dystopian YA books out there, but I must say that it feels like Sloan and Catherine have managed to come up with something new and fresh. There are bits and pieces that remind me of The Hunger Games and Divirgent, for example, but they've made it their own, which is quite an accomplishment. I'm looking forward to reading the next book!
*I received an ARC from the authors and I'm giving my honest review.*
May 14, 2020
I picked up this book after reading that it had a competition in it. While I feel like I have grown past reading dystopian novels, I am always drawn back in when I read one has a test to compare people's ability to be part of society.
This book follows four teens as they are tested to have the ability to breed (there are other teens in the competition, but we hear POVs from four of them). I felt like many of the characters fell flat, main and non-main characters a like, yet there was a surprise in that two of the povs really felt special to me. Dex and Wren felt like unique characters that were well rounded and like nothing I had read before. I DID feel like Wren could "do no wrong" in this book and would have liked to have seen her fail at some point, but she was still a nice change.
The competition was the best part of the book. It starts at about 30% through the book and everything before that was boring. Once we got to the main focus, I felt like I couldn't put the book down.
There was some problems with info dumping, but it was all towards the beginning of the story so I can forgive it for that.
Overall, it wasn't a bad book. I enjoyed reading it, and I have been thinking about it ever sense I put it down. I felt that it matched a YA audience better than it matched me. I didn't love the characters and I felt that the stakes weren't that high, but overall a quick, decent book to read.
This book follows four teens as they are tested to have the ability to breed (there are other teens in the competition, but we hear POVs from four of them). I felt like many of the characters fell flat, main and non-main characters a like, yet there was a surprise in that two of the povs really felt special to me. Dex and Wren felt like unique characters that were well rounded and like nothing I had read before. I DID feel like Wren could "do no wrong" in this book and would have liked to have seen her fail at some point, but she was still a nice change.
The competition was the best part of the book. It starts at about 30% through the book and everything before that was boring. Once we got to the main focus, I felt like I couldn't put the book down.
There was some problems with info dumping, but it was all towards the beginning of the story so I can forgive it for that.
Overall, it wasn't a bad book. I enjoyed reading it, and I have been thinking about it ever sense I put it down. I felt that it matched a YA audience better than it matched me. I didn't love the characters and I felt that the stakes weren't that high, but overall a quick, decent book to read.
December 20, 2019
After reading and loving the prequel Burning, I was certainly eager to read Rising the first book in the After The Thaw Series.
I really love the covers of the book series, featuring the birds that become even more relevant to those that live in Askala in this book. I think using the different coloured birds on the different books will make these books really cohesive as a series and stand out together on a book store shelf.
This book is centred on the children of the main characters that Burning was focused on. Though the now older characters that we met in Burning still feature fairly strongly in this book too.
Before the book plot reveals the proving, and those who will be serving as the new High Bound something else even more rare happens. Dex is sitting on the beach when he spots some sort of boat/raft on the ocean full of people, remnants, obviously trying to get across the ocean from the Outlands to Askala. As explained in the prequel should any remnant step foot on the land of Askala they automatically gain the right to stay there and are given food, shelter, medical care and anything else they should need. Basically, they are unquestionably accepted into the community.
The book is about the next generation and the fact they are approaching their proving, and also like in Burning the next generation of High Bounds are to be chosen again. This time there are nine teens that are sixteen so expected to be taking part in the proving to decide who will Bound to care for those not bound and the future of the earth and who will be Unbound and live a more carefree lifestyle and be cared for by those chosen as the Bound. The sixteen-year olds proving will consist of four tests taken over seven consecutive days. The nine teenagers taking part this time are lovebirds Nova and Kian, Dex, Jay, Shiloh, Felicia, Thom, Fern and Wren. Though as it says in the blurb the four teens central to the plot are Nova, Kian, Dex and Wren. The first of the four tests seem really simple, yet the teenagers really start to over think what their best option is to approach and complete the task they are set.
The remaining three asks become more and more complicated and dangerous with one character dying in task three. Task four see’s one character run off alone giving up on completing the task at all and another seemingly double crossing both her own teammates and her competitors hoping to take the prize and credit all for herself.
Finally, all the tests are completed and each remaining teen has to have their chip fitted and a small operation if they are found to be Unbound. This “small operation” is something that was being considered at the very end of Burning. A resolution had to be found and put into practice to prevent anyone who is Unbound masquerading as a Bound.
The characters from Burning that were in Rising, that I still adored were Amity and Magnus who are happily married though older and wiser. It is clear that Magnus has had some difficult decisions to make to secure a future for Askala and earth. Some of these actions have been quite drastic, and not all have been supported by the whole of the High Bound council. Amity is continuing her mother Kiminas legacy looking after the pteropods and trying to increase their breeding capacity to secure a better diet and future for those that live in Askala. Despite the horrendous set back the pteropods breeding programme took in Burning. Life became quite difficult for both the Bound and Unbound when pteropods were in extremely short supply. In fact, the female Bound in Amity’s generation suffered the most with some having multiple miscarriages before their nutrition improved enough to support them and their pregnancies.
Of the older character’s featured I have to admit my opinion of Callix didn’t really improve, some of the tests he set were so dangerous and came across a little callous how they turned out. My opinion of Mercy changed and I felt quite sympathetic towards her and her child because of the fact Callix seems to have shut himself off in the lab over the years developing the proving tests, so didn’t spend much time with either if them. Though in this book he does apologise for being somewhat of an absentee parent/husband.
Of the teens taking part in the proving I quickly became attached to Nova who works in the medical wing. Though she struggles with the different levels of medical treatment on offer to Bounds and Unbounds. For example, equipment for stitches are in short supply so if a Bound has a cut they will be given stitches where an Unbound will merely be bandaged up. It doesn’t sit well with Nova who thinks medical treatment should be given equal to all.
Nova’s good friend is Kian, they are usually found together or on the way to the other. They both wish for a future together and know they want claim each other after the proving. Kian strives to do his best in everything and shows a special interest in the pteropods and their future breeding programs.
The character I absolutely adored was Dex, who was attacked as a child by a hooded Unbound. The attacker cut off his left hand, and obviously the proving carries extra stress for him. From being able to perform all the tasks as good as the other teenagers who have two hands to the whole inserting of his chip at the proving. The chip that differentiates you from being Unbound or Bound. The chip allows the individual to open the different doors to the areas on the Oasis where those in Askala live. The Unbound live in the higher levels of the Oasis, where as the Bounds live on the lower levels and are deemed worthy to have children. Dex has a great sense of humour and uses it often to put the other teens at ease during the tasks. Sadly, he feels inferior and thinks he is looked at as inferior because he has no left hand. He does feel extra stress asking questions as to where his chip will be placed as he has no left hand? If he is Bound where will he wear his ring, as everyone else wears it on their left hand? There is also the question of if he is Unbound how will the procedure to tell him apart form a Bound be completed, as that procedure also concerns the left hand.
The character I was unsure of, then grew to love, then wasn’t totally sure what to think about as the book went on, was Wren. Though overall, I have to admit to having a soft spot for her and looking forward to more from her. Wren has a different outlook compared to the majority of the other teens, and the adult Bound and Unbounds so I will be interested to read more about her and what changes she may end up in a position to have a say in. Will she attempt to change any of the laws or traditions. I am also highly anticipating the revealing of which of the new Bounds will become the new High Bounds and what jobs they will choose to undertake.
I totally love the world building, society, traditions, and way of life. It is so well thought out and really detailed. This book plot hooked me straight away and held me captive until the very end. I liked the element of trying to work out which new teen character belonged to which adult character previously featured in Burning. Obviously, the adult character parents and main character teens relationships are revealed as the book plot unfolds. I think there is so much more to come for both ages of characters as well as the potential for more Outlander characters to be introduced as well.
My immediate thoughts upon finishing Rising were Wow! Just what is the fallout going to be in the aftermath of the Proving? What did Callix mean by his comment to his son saying there were changes coming soon to Askala? What will happen when the war that has been mentioned as coming, arrives at Askala? Is the red-haired Phoenix related to who I think he is? I am seriously looking forward to reading more, wishing I had the next instalment in this series to start reading right now!
To sum up, this book, no, this series is highly addictive reading! And I can’t reveal what it was but what a cliff hanger!! I was (im)patiently waiting for this book after reading the prequel but, oh I am sooo eagerly, (im)patiently, enthusiastically, and excitedly awaiting the next book, which is called Breaking! So, I guess I will have to start counting down the days to the release of Breaking in February. If you love dystopian, futuristic, or climatic fiction you need to start reading this series now!
I really love the covers of the book series, featuring the birds that become even more relevant to those that live in Askala in this book. I think using the different coloured birds on the different books will make these books really cohesive as a series and stand out together on a book store shelf.
This book is centred on the children of the main characters that Burning was focused on. Though the now older characters that we met in Burning still feature fairly strongly in this book too.
Before the book plot reveals the proving, and those who will be serving as the new High Bound something else even more rare happens. Dex is sitting on the beach when he spots some sort of boat/raft on the ocean full of people, remnants, obviously trying to get across the ocean from the Outlands to Askala. As explained in the prequel should any remnant step foot on the land of Askala they automatically gain the right to stay there and are given food, shelter, medical care and anything else they should need. Basically, they are unquestionably accepted into the community.
The book is about the next generation and the fact they are approaching their proving, and also like in Burning the next generation of High Bounds are to be chosen again. This time there are nine teens that are sixteen so expected to be taking part in the proving to decide who will Bound to care for those not bound and the future of the earth and who will be Unbound and live a more carefree lifestyle and be cared for by those chosen as the Bound. The sixteen-year olds proving will consist of four tests taken over seven consecutive days. The nine teenagers taking part this time are lovebirds Nova and Kian, Dex, Jay, Shiloh, Felicia, Thom, Fern and Wren. Though as it says in the blurb the four teens central to the plot are Nova, Kian, Dex and Wren. The first of the four tests seem really simple, yet the teenagers really start to over think what their best option is to approach and complete the task they are set.
The remaining three asks become more and more complicated and dangerous with one character dying in task three. Task four see’s one character run off alone giving up on completing the task at all and another seemingly double crossing both her own teammates and her competitors hoping to take the prize and credit all for herself.
Finally, all the tests are completed and each remaining teen has to have their chip fitted and a small operation if they are found to be Unbound. This “small operation” is something that was being considered at the very end of Burning. A resolution had to be found and put into practice to prevent anyone who is Unbound masquerading as a Bound.
The characters from Burning that were in Rising, that I still adored were Amity and Magnus who are happily married though older and wiser. It is clear that Magnus has had some difficult decisions to make to secure a future for Askala and earth. Some of these actions have been quite drastic, and not all have been supported by the whole of the High Bound council. Amity is continuing her mother Kiminas legacy looking after the pteropods and trying to increase their breeding capacity to secure a better diet and future for those that live in Askala. Despite the horrendous set back the pteropods breeding programme took in Burning. Life became quite difficult for both the Bound and Unbound when pteropods were in extremely short supply. In fact, the female Bound in Amity’s generation suffered the most with some having multiple miscarriages before their nutrition improved enough to support them and their pregnancies.
Of the older character’s featured I have to admit my opinion of Callix didn’t really improve, some of the tests he set were so dangerous and came across a little callous how they turned out. My opinion of Mercy changed and I felt quite sympathetic towards her and her child because of the fact Callix seems to have shut himself off in the lab over the years developing the proving tests, so didn’t spend much time with either if them. Though in this book he does apologise for being somewhat of an absentee parent/husband.
Of the teens taking part in the proving I quickly became attached to Nova who works in the medical wing. Though she struggles with the different levels of medical treatment on offer to Bounds and Unbounds. For example, equipment for stitches are in short supply so if a Bound has a cut they will be given stitches where an Unbound will merely be bandaged up. It doesn’t sit well with Nova who thinks medical treatment should be given equal to all.
Nova’s good friend is Kian, they are usually found together or on the way to the other. They both wish for a future together and know they want claim each other after the proving. Kian strives to do his best in everything and shows a special interest in the pteropods and their future breeding programs.
The character I absolutely adored was Dex, who was attacked as a child by a hooded Unbound. The attacker cut off his left hand, and obviously the proving carries extra stress for him. From being able to perform all the tasks as good as the other teenagers who have two hands to the whole inserting of his chip at the proving. The chip that differentiates you from being Unbound or Bound. The chip allows the individual to open the different doors to the areas on the Oasis where those in Askala live. The Unbound live in the higher levels of the Oasis, where as the Bounds live on the lower levels and are deemed worthy to have children. Dex has a great sense of humour and uses it often to put the other teens at ease during the tasks. Sadly, he feels inferior and thinks he is looked at as inferior because he has no left hand. He does feel extra stress asking questions as to where his chip will be placed as he has no left hand? If he is Bound where will he wear his ring, as everyone else wears it on their left hand? There is also the question of if he is Unbound how will the procedure to tell him apart form a Bound be completed, as that procedure also concerns the left hand.
The character I was unsure of, then grew to love, then wasn’t totally sure what to think about as the book went on, was Wren. Though overall, I have to admit to having a soft spot for her and looking forward to more from her. Wren has a different outlook compared to the majority of the other teens, and the adult Bound and Unbounds so I will be interested to read more about her and what changes she may end up in a position to have a say in. Will she attempt to change any of the laws or traditions. I am also highly anticipating the revealing of which of the new Bounds will become the new High Bounds and what jobs they will choose to undertake.
I totally love the world building, society, traditions, and way of life. It is so well thought out and really detailed. This book plot hooked me straight away and held me captive until the very end. I liked the element of trying to work out which new teen character belonged to which adult character previously featured in Burning. Obviously, the adult character parents and main character teens relationships are revealed as the book plot unfolds. I think there is so much more to come for both ages of characters as well as the potential for more Outlander characters to be introduced as well.
My immediate thoughts upon finishing Rising were Wow! Just what is the fallout going to be in the aftermath of the Proving? What did Callix mean by his comment to his son saying there were changes coming soon to Askala? What will happen when the war that has been mentioned as coming, arrives at Askala? Is the red-haired Phoenix related to who I think he is? I am seriously looking forward to reading more, wishing I had the next instalment in this series to start reading right now!
To sum up, this book, no, this series is highly addictive reading! And I can’t reveal what it was but what a cliff hanger!! I was (im)patiently waiting for this book after reading the prequel but, oh I am sooo eagerly, (im)patiently, enthusiastically, and excitedly awaiting the next book, which is called Breaking! So, I guess I will have to start counting down the days to the release of Breaking in February. If you love dystopian, futuristic, or climatic fiction you need to start reading this series now!
December 15, 2024
2019 52 Book Challenge - 40) A Character Who Is An Immigrant
I thought this was a well written book with complex characters. I liked the four main characters that the book follows: Kian, Nova, Dex and Wren, and they all felt well rounded and I liked their development through the book.
The plot itself felt very Hunger Games esque so if you like the Hunger Games, you'd probably like this one too.
I do wish that there had been more information and backstory about the world and the society, like we're given the bare bones information - humans are bad and created a climate disaster, Alaska is now a floating island that struggles to maintain the population that it has, they feed people pods and they clean water with ravens eggshells, and the water is acidic and has very bad sharks in it.
I hope this is expanded upon on in the sequels.
I thought this was a well written book with complex characters. I liked the four main characters that the book follows: Kian, Nova, Dex and Wren, and they all felt well rounded and I liked their development through the book.
The plot itself felt very Hunger Games esque so if you like the Hunger Games, you'd probably like this one too.
I do wish that there had been more information and backstory about the world and the society, like we're given the bare bones information - humans are bad and created a climate disaster, Alaska is now a floating island that struggles to maintain the population that it has, they feed people pods and they clean water with ravens eggshells, and the water is acidic and has very bad sharks in it.
I hope this is expanded upon on in the sequels.
June 21, 2020
I loved following the characters Kian, Nova, Dex and Wren - all are so beautifully-written, real and engaging - as they navigate their way through survival in the complex reality of Askala, which is a well-crafted, frightening setting. Coming off the back of the prequel novella, Burning, Rising is thought-provoking, intense and suspenseful with a dramatic ending that will leave you racing for the next book in the series. It's a perfect read for anyone who loved The Hunger Games!
July 23, 2020
Well this was different. Another society where your status means everything. the trails were good at bringing out their true traits. I liked the story line but I never really connected to the characters. I was shocked at the end. I need to read more of the world to see if I do like it or not. There were parts which I enjoyed and parts which left me feeling indifferent.
Read
May 2, 2020Interesting world and setting that held my attention and made me want to keep reading. I liked the small glimpse of the world we’ve been given so far, but I’m hoping for more detail in the next book. The characters were good as well. Well developed and diverse, it was easy to root for them.
***As of January 2020 I no longer leave star ratings for my reviews.
***As of January 2020 I no longer leave star ratings for my reviews.
January 31, 2020
I got to read this at the courtesy of the authors in exchange for an honest review.
Having read the shorter prequel, I knew the overall tone this story would take: drama, drama, drama. Suspenseful drama too! When the blurb talks about this being a good choice for lovers of Hunger Games and Divergent, they’re absolutely right. What makes this even better is that we get four different point of views to experience this through.
Sometimes dealing with that kind of change can feel abrupt and make it hard to differentiate the characters and their unique voices, but this is expertly crafted to the point that you probably don’t need the heading to know who is speaking. Each character is so unique in their voice that it’s easy to slip back into their minds even after a few chapters apart from them.
And these characters feel like real people. They have the same kinds of biases, and self esteem issues that any of us have. The way they approach their problems and think things through is very authentic, and you can’t help but become attached to them. So when the Proving happens at the end, you FEEL it.
And you can’t help but struggle with them as they navigate what they are feeling, and being ok with who they are. This story addresses some hard things that are definitely present in our society. There are differences in our classes and cultures that, no matter how we try to stop it, color our view of the world and of others. This story highlights the importance of having people in your life who don’t just agree with all the things you believe to be true, but who challenge you to reevaluate how you see the world and become a better person for it.
Btw, major cliffhanger ending. BUT the good news is, these books are being released one right after the other, so you’re only going to have to wait a month or two for the next one to appear rather than a year or more. ((Thank you authors!!!))
My only critique here is that it can feel a little preachy. However, I can let that go because it makes sense for the story being told, and they don’t go on and on about global warming and how terrible human beings have been to the planet. Sometimes it feels a little like propaganda, but, as I said, it’s not unjustified in the context of this story so it doesn’t get under my skin too bad.
I can’t wait for the next book! I’m ready for more drama and these four characters trying to figure it out as their whole world implodes. It’s going to be a great ride!
Having read the shorter prequel, I knew the overall tone this story would take: drama, drama, drama. Suspenseful drama too! When the blurb talks about this being a good choice for lovers of Hunger Games and Divergent, they’re absolutely right. What makes this even better is that we get four different point of views to experience this through.
Sometimes dealing with that kind of change can feel abrupt and make it hard to differentiate the characters and their unique voices, but this is expertly crafted to the point that you probably don’t need the heading to know who is speaking. Each character is so unique in their voice that it’s easy to slip back into their minds even after a few chapters apart from them.
And these characters feel like real people. They have the same kinds of biases, and self esteem issues that any of us have. The way they approach their problems and think things through is very authentic, and you can’t help but become attached to them. So when the Proving happens at the end, you FEEL it.
And you can’t help but struggle with them as they navigate what they are feeling, and being ok with who they are. This story addresses some hard things that are definitely present in our society. There are differences in our classes and cultures that, no matter how we try to stop it, color our view of the world and of others. This story highlights the importance of having people in your life who don’t just agree with all the things you believe to be true, but who challenge you to reevaluate how you see the world and become a better person for it.
Btw, major cliffhanger ending. BUT the good news is, these books are being released one right after the other, so you’re only going to have to wait a month or two for the next one to appear rather than a year or more. ((Thank you authors!!!))
My only critique here is that it can feel a little preachy. However, I can let that go because it makes sense for the story being told, and they don’t go on and on about global warming and how terrible human beings have been to the planet. Sometimes it feels a little like propaganda, but, as I said, it’s not unjustified in the context of this story so it doesn’t get under my skin too bad.
I can’t wait for the next book! I’m ready for more drama and these four characters trying to figure it out as their whole world implodes. It’s going to be a great ride!
February 22, 2020
Let's just say the first full-length instalment of After the Thaw did NOT disappoint! I was hooked on the concept after reading the prequel and now I'm hooked on the characters and NEED to find out what happens to Kian, Dex, Wren and Nova. Especially Nova!
I mean, that ending. I won't give spoilers, but damn, Sloan and Catherine really know how to pull the reader in, toss them about, and wring them out in an emotional heap at the end. Word of warning - DON'T start this series unless you plan on finishing all books, because you won't be able to stop! Trust me on this. Now, back to reading Book 2 BREAKING ...
I mean, that ending. I won't give spoilers, but damn, Sloan and Catherine really know how to pull the reader in, toss them about, and wring them out in an emotional heap at the end. Word of warning - DON'T start this series unless you plan on finishing all books, because you won't be able to stop! Trust me on this. Now, back to reading Book 2 BREAKING ...
September 15, 2020
For the life of me, I can not understand how this book has any good ratings at all. The writing is amateurish and the story line was there, but never completely formed. I kept reading hoping for something to make this worth while, since I normally enjoy dystopian books, but it was a colossal waste of time. Won't have to worry about buying the rest of them... HORRIBLE!
July 30, 2020
High three for this one. 3.85. I enjoyed the fast pace of it but not the lack of backstory. I want to know way more about the earth, the people, how they actually started to rebuild. That wasn't mentioned once (about the true rebuilding after all the catastrophes). This was definitely a younger read but I still enjoyed the competition/task type of story. People did die but nothing like The Hunger Games deaths (though the shark death was pretty upsetting). I almost feel like book two could have been added and the two books just be about 500 words. While the cliffhanger was a good one, it was almost too fast and too short. I enjoyed most of the characters and each one had some unique qualities but also seemed a bit cookie cutter at times. Kian the hero and leader, Nova the naive and kind one, Wren the rulebreaker, and Dex the broken yet funny one. I feel terrible for Nova becoming Unbound and will definitely read on to see how she faces those challenges. One thing I do like is how the Bound and Unbound have advantages and disadvantages. Usually the 'losers' of the group have the worst time ever but at least the Unbound are catered to and taken care of.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 16, 2020
3 stars. buddy read
The world has been devastated by Global Warming and all the pollution humanity has brought in. Over the years it has created havoc weather changes, acidic waters, and mutated animals. But, there seems to be a small haven in this world called Askala. In Askala, they have deviated roles in their hub either being deemed Bounded or Unbounded. Bounded rules the sanctuary and is able to pass down their superior genes while the Unbounded are sterile and taken care of by the Unbounded. Every year, they hold a Proving to determine where the person ends up on the totem pole. Following Dex, Kian, Wren, Nova, and five other contestants. Where will they fit in?
I really liked the premise, and how it was a different take of the Hunger Games. Instead of survival, the true testament was either you are smart and kind, or selfish. Each character shows their true colors in the Proving, but overall it was a mediocre story. I wish the author spent more time with certain scenes, but it was nice to have action back to back.
The world has been devastated by Global Warming and all the pollution humanity has brought in. Over the years it has created havoc weather changes, acidic waters, and mutated animals. But, there seems to be a small haven in this world called Askala. In Askala, they have deviated roles in their hub either being deemed Bounded or Unbounded. Bounded rules the sanctuary and is able to pass down their superior genes while the Unbounded are sterile and taken care of by the Unbounded. Every year, they hold a Proving to determine where the person ends up on the totem pole. Following Dex, Kian, Wren, Nova, and five other contestants. Where will they fit in?
I really liked the premise, and how it was a different take of the Hunger Games. Instead of survival, the true testament was either you are smart and kind, or selfish. Each character shows their true colors in the Proving, but overall it was a mediocre story. I wish the author spent more time with certain scenes, but it was nice to have action back to back.
September 9, 2021
It’s more a 3.5
This is competition, therefore, so many good reviews. However, this has quite a few misgivings, the book starts a bit slow, it picks up about 1/3 in, it’s absolutely predictable the big twist at the end is easily guessed. And also is clear what is going to be happening next. The world needs more building, it’s missing a lot of important info about how everything came around… I finished it and it had good moments, but I don’t know if I will go for a second one right away, maybe later.
This is competition, therefore, so many good reviews. However, this has quite a few misgivings, the book starts a bit slow, it picks up about 1/3 in, it’s absolutely predictable the big twist at the end is easily guessed. And also is clear what is going to be happening next. The world needs more building, it’s missing a lot of important info about how everything came around… I finished it and it had good moments, but I don’t know if I will go for a second one right away, maybe later.
March 5, 2020
In a future world those that survive live in a community that is trying to rebuild. In this community, where there are restrictions on resources teenagers must undergo a "Proving" to consider if they are good enough to breed the next generation. These people are the "Bound". Those who do not make it through lose a finger and become the "Unbound".
Nine teenagers go through this ritual but not all can make it through.
I liked it. It was fairly fast paced. The teen angst got to me a bit but that is not unexpected for this type of novel.
Nine teenagers go through this ritual but not all can make it through.
I liked it. It was fairly fast paced. The teen angst got to me a bit but that is not unexpected for this type of novel.
May 14, 2025
This wasn't bad, but the challenges weren't as exciting as I'd hoped. I wasn't all that surprised at the ending, either.
I'll give the next book a chance, but I don't see myself reading the whole series unfortunately.
I'll give the next book a chance, but I don't see myself reading the whole series unfortunately.
March 1, 2020
Loved it.
I love this book. I can't wait to read the next installment. I escaped into this world and I never want to leave.
I love this book. I can't wait to read the next installment. I escaped into this world and I never want to leave.
March 1, 2020
I give the book 3.5. this was very suspenseful. It reminded me of The Maze Runner. I think I shall continue with the series.
dnf-abandoned
January 2, 2022The tense in the first ten pages of this book is a hot mess. Couldn't do it.
September 4, 2025
Words cannot express how good this motherf***ing book is. I am SHOCKED and GAGGED at the conclusion. This has me ready to purchase the entire series right now. Matter fact I am, brb
April 29, 2021
Great start to this series. Fast paced, interesting characters and setting. Can’t wait to read the next in series. Highly recommend to readers who enjoy fantasy YA series.
May 7, 2021
This book was way better than I thought it was going to be. I'm excited to read the other books.
December 18, 2019
All I can say is that this book will get your heart racing. The Proving is supposed to show who will be the best for Askala’s future. Kian and Nova have been in love with each other forever but because of their not knowing what their future is, bound or unbound they will not do anything about their feelings.
Eight teens will go into the Proving until 1 Night a Remnant makes it to shore and of the same age so she too will go through the Proving trials.
This book is filled with turmoil and romance with strong characters and awesome friendships. This is a book that keeps you wanting more and has a cliffhanger that has you stunned.
If you like Dystopian futuristic books you will want to read this book.
Eight teens will go into the Proving until 1 Night a Remnant makes it to shore and of the same age so she too will go through the Proving trials.
This book is filled with turmoil and romance with strong characters and awesome friendships. This is a book that keeps you wanting more and has a cliffhanger that has you stunned.
If you like Dystopian futuristic books you will want to read this book.
December 30, 2019
After reading Burning I was dying to get my hands on Rising. And it did not disappoint!!! Although I was expecting more from the characters I fell in love with in Burning, it did not take long to get sucked back into Askala. Kian, Nova, Dex, and Wren were beautifully created characters that have you rooting for them during the Proving. And keep you hooked until the very last page. I cannot wait for Breaking to see what happens with Kian and Nova and Wren and Dex. I can’t wait to see what Wren has up her sleeve in the next book!!
December 7, 2023
I'm not going to give any spoilers but I love this book very much, and if you like dystopian books it's definitely worth reading. I liked how it switched through 4 peoples point of views so I never got tired of it. Wren is my favorite by far. So yes, if you need a book to read, read it
May 24, 2020
No
None of the real grit that you see in Hunger games or divergent. And the ending sucked. Not a fan.
None of the real grit that you see in Hunger games or divergent. And the ending sucked. Not a fan.
May 19, 2021
This was a DNF, for me. Too much perspective swapping and the character voices just weren't different enough to support that.
May 3, 2021
Rising: After the Thaw (The Thaw Chronicles Book 1) Kindle Edition
by Heidi Catherine (Author), Tamar Sloan (Author)
Finally, a worthy successor to The Hunger Games and The 100. This a combination of Ender's Game and The Breakfast Club
Set in a world after the polar caps have melted and the planet is becoming more and more toxic to not just humans, but every single living organism, this book is a break out from the typical dystopian young adult novel with it's extremely accurate, if depressing, depiction of what future generations will face if humans don't take action.
Nova and the love of her life, Kian, live in a world split into the Bound and the Unbound on the beached cruise ship. The Bound will continue the human race and take important positions. The Unbound cannot carry on the human race, and they are not involved in the different types of work on the Oasis. The Bound and the Unbound are judged by a testing process call the Proving. Everything seems to be going right until a girl from outside the Oasis comes ashore and takes a place in the Proving.
The characters are fairly well sketched and avoid most of the worst of stereotypes. The teenagers are the focus of the story, Nova, Kian, Dex, Thom, Fern, Felicia, Shiloh and Wren. Nova, Kian, Dex and Wren share the job of being the focus of the third person narrative.
I do have one complaint. I wish there were a map in this book. Even though it might have tipped Ms. Catherine and Ms. Sloan's hand about the location, it would be easier to picture this future world. There is also the question of if they can barely feed themselves and have little to no contact with outsiders, where did they get all those wonderful toys – tech seems easy to get after the apocalypse.
The story and the characters take on a deeper meaning as each of the young people involved represent not only the Bound positions they would take over, but types of humans. For instance, Nova is the heart – she cares deeply and wants to heal everyone and everything. Dex is the human need to persevere, overcome perceived disabilities. Kian is the protector and so on.
There is also a conversation occurring between the lines – how do we protect the planet and still protect humans. Is our duty to tame the planet or the be stewards of Earth herself? This level and discussion which brings the comparisons to The Hunger Games series. The way the characters are tested brings forth a feeling like that in Ender's Game, where they must solve a mystery or finish a task. These levels make this such an important new series in the genre.
Narration is in the present tense, making the story seem more urgent, more real. The story ramps up as the danger of being Unbound becomes more and more possible. Finished with a cliffhanger that is both heart wrenching and satisfying.
A really good entry into the large field of YA Dystopian Sci-fi with a message like the Hunger Games, with a world as well built as the Divergent series and a society as deep and interesting as the Giver. Lastly the various trials bring Ender's Game to mind.
5 out of 5
https://www.amazon.com/Rising-After-T...
by Heidi Catherine (Author), Tamar Sloan (Author)
Finally, a worthy successor to The Hunger Games and The 100. This a combination of Ender's Game and The Breakfast Club
Set in a world after the polar caps have melted and the planet is becoming more and more toxic to not just humans, but every single living organism, this book is a break out from the typical dystopian young adult novel with it's extremely accurate, if depressing, depiction of what future generations will face if humans don't take action.
Nova and the love of her life, Kian, live in a world split into the Bound and the Unbound on the beached cruise ship. The Bound will continue the human race and take important positions. The Unbound cannot carry on the human race, and they are not involved in the different types of work on the Oasis. The Bound and the Unbound are judged by a testing process call the Proving. Everything seems to be going right until a girl from outside the Oasis comes ashore and takes a place in the Proving.
The characters are fairly well sketched and avoid most of the worst of stereotypes. The teenagers are the focus of the story, Nova, Kian, Dex, Thom, Fern, Felicia, Shiloh and Wren. Nova, Kian, Dex and Wren share the job of being the focus of the third person narrative.
I do have one complaint. I wish there were a map in this book. Even though it might have tipped Ms. Catherine and Ms. Sloan's hand about the location, it would be easier to picture this future world. There is also the question of if they can barely feed themselves and have little to no contact with outsiders, where did they get all those wonderful toys – tech seems easy to get after the apocalypse.
The story and the characters take on a deeper meaning as each of the young people involved represent not only the Bound positions they would take over, but types of humans. For instance, Nova is the heart – she cares deeply and wants to heal everyone and everything. Dex is the human need to persevere, overcome perceived disabilities. Kian is the protector and so on.
There is also a conversation occurring between the lines – how do we protect the planet and still protect humans. Is our duty to tame the planet or the be stewards of Earth herself? This level and discussion which brings the comparisons to The Hunger Games series. The way the characters are tested brings forth a feeling like that in Ender's Game, where they must solve a mystery or finish a task. These levels make this such an important new series in the genre.
Narration is in the present tense, making the story seem more urgent, more real. The story ramps up as the danger of being Unbound becomes more and more possible. Finished with a cliffhanger that is both heart wrenching and satisfying.
A really good entry into the large field of YA Dystopian Sci-fi with a message like the Hunger Games, with a world as well built as the Divergent series and a society as deep and interesting as the Giver. Lastly the various trials bring Ender's Game to mind.
5 out of 5
https://www.amazon.com/Rising-After-T...
Read
January 14, 2020In the prequel to this book, Burning, we met Magnus and Amity, Mercy and Callix. Rising introduces us to the next generation of Askala. Nova, kind and gentle to everyone. Kian, bold and brave. Dex, second-guessing himself, always feeling like he has more to prove because of his missing arm. And Wren, the girl no one anticipated.
We learned in Burning that, if Remnants can reach the shore of Askala, they will be allowed to stay. Wren is a Remnant who does just that, and she is of an age to take part in the Proving with Nova, Kian, Dex, and the others. Wren thinks the whole idea is stupid, and seems determined to try as hard as she can NOT to pass. Her disdain for Askala and anything to do with working for its good is clear, and I wondered what her motive was in risking her life to get there if she hated all it stood for. (I'll tell you this - at the end of the book, you still may not be sure of what her motive is.) The Proving isn't easy, nor is it intended to be - Callix has developed very, very challenging tests that leave the teens sometimes second-guessing what the right thing is to do, and sometimes requiring them to figure out if the thing that seems like it would pass the test is the right thing to do. Their loyalties and consciences are put to the test and their hearts are run through the wringer. Who will stand and who will fall?
Sloan and Catherine weave an engrossing story here. I love the post-apocalyptic world they've created in this series. It's a fascinating idea - those chosen as most responsible and most caring will be in charge of managing resources and making decisions for the good of all; those not chosen will live a life free of responsibility and have all their needs cared for, but will give up their ability/right to bear children. The leaders must believe in the good of Askala over their own individual good, indeed, over any one person's individual good. What happens when someone shows up who doesn't share that vision? How will that one very different opinion change things? Or will it?
I like the character development, too. Nova is so sweet and gentle, sometimes I want to hug her and sometimes I want to say, oh, honey, you need to take those rose-colored glasses right off and see how things really are. Felicia isn't one of the major characters, but she is quite the pot-stirrer at times. And Wren. Wren is the surprise of the story for me. I think she and I would get along well. I'm interested to see what her backstory is. We get bits and pieces of it here, but not all of it.
I'm anxious to read the rest of the series to find out! I'm not going to give any spoilers here. Want to find out who passes the Proving and who doesn't? Grab a copy of Rising and get to reading.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of the book from the authors. All opinions here are mine, and I don't say nice things about books I don't like.
We learned in Burning that, if Remnants can reach the shore of Askala, they will be allowed to stay. Wren is a Remnant who does just that, and she is of an age to take part in the Proving with Nova, Kian, Dex, and the others. Wren thinks the whole idea is stupid, and seems determined to try as hard as she can NOT to pass. Her disdain for Askala and anything to do with working for its good is clear, and I wondered what her motive was in risking her life to get there if she hated all it stood for. (I'll tell you this - at the end of the book, you still may not be sure of what her motive is.) The Proving isn't easy, nor is it intended to be - Callix has developed very, very challenging tests that leave the teens sometimes second-guessing what the right thing is to do, and sometimes requiring them to figure out if the thing that seems like it would pass the test is the right thing to do. Their loyalties and consciences are put to the test and their hearts are run through the wringer. Who will stand and who will fall?
Sloan and Catherine weave an engrossing story here. I love the post-apocalyptic world they've created in this series. It's a fascinating idea - those chosen as most responsible and most caring will be in charge of managing resources and making decisions for the good of all; those not chosen will live a life free of responsibility and have all their needs cared for, but will give up their ability/right to bear children. The leaders must believe in the good of Askala over their own individual good, indeed, over any one person's individual good. What happens when someone shows up who doesn't share that vision? How will that one very different opinion change things? Or will it?
I like the character development, too. Nova is so sweet and gentle, sometimes I want to hug her and sometimes I want to say, oh, honey, you need to take those rose-colored glasses right off and see how things really are. Felicia isn't one of the major characters, but she is quite the pot-stirrer at times. And Wren. Wren is the surprise of the story for me. I think she and I would get along well. I'm interested to see what her backstory is. We get bits and pieces of it here, but not all of it.
I'm anxious to read the rest of the series to find out! I'm not going to give any spoilers here. Want to find out who passes the Proving and who doesn't? Grab a copy of Rising and get to reading.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of the book from the authors. All opinions here are mine, and I don't say nice things about books I don't like.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 179 reviews