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The Thaw Chronicles #3
Falling: After the Thaw
Only the chosen shall breed.
Nova, Kian, Dex, and Wren.
Four divided hearts. Four teens no longer sure what they’re fighting for.
Their society was meant to mold human evolution. Their future, and that of Earth, was to be decided by the kindest and smartest. Askala was supposed to be a beacon of hope in a flooded, desecrated world.
Except the line between the Bound and Unbound is blurring. The Outlands is no longer some distant, faceless world. And the Remnants have a leader who knows more about them than any Remnant before.
In a world devastated by global warming, the fight for survival has always been deadly. Now, the battle for Askala is about to define the very future of humanity.
But...does the greatest threat lie within?
Nova, Kian, Dex, and Wren.
Four divided hearts. Four teens no longer sure what they’re fighting for.
Their society was meant to mold human evolution. Their future, and that of Earth, was to be decided by the kindest and smartest. Askala was supposed to be a beacon of hope in a flooded, desecrated world.
Except the line between the Bound and Unbound is blurring. The Outlands is no longer some distant, faceless world. And the Remnants have a leader who knows more about them than any Remnant before.
In a world devastated by global warming, the fight for survival has always been deadly. Now, the battle for Askala is about to define the very future of humanity.
But...does the greatest threat lie within?
300 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 3, 2020
870 people are currently reading
591 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 58 reviews
March 28, 2020
After reading the other books in the After The Thaw series as they were released I was eagerly awaiting the release of this book. This time the bird on the book cover is in green and fits the aesthetic of the other covers very well. I bet these books look amazing in paperback all together on a book shelf. I think they will definitely stand out on a book store shelf too.
In this book our favourite characters all seem to have to separate in order to fight for a future and favourable outcome for Askala. Unbound Nova pregnant by her Bound ex-boyfriend Kian feels neither she nor her unborn child have any sort of future in Askal and when she discovers their plan impulsively flees with Thom and Flick who is also pregnant. Thom cleverly adapts a raft adding a sail which he hopes will provide extra speed to their journey across the ocean to the Outlands. Unfortunately, they are not as far as they would have liked to be across the ocean when a bad storm hits. The very thing that had helped them now puts them at more risk as the lightening strikes ever nearer the pole the sail is tied to. Disaster strikes as they are all thrown into the sea. Flick and Nova soon realise they may have been seeing the prospect of the Outlands through “rose-coloured” glasses and are soon in trouble. The Askalan’s are quite naïve and seem to expect everyone to have the type of “be kind” ethic they have. They assume that people will help them for nothing in return which Nova and Flick are at first shocked by and then horrified when they realise what they may be expected to do in return for a favour. Luckily for them there are still some kind hearted people in the Outlands and they are rescued by a disfigured woman called Avis who has created a home in what is left of the city.
Meanwhile in Askala, Kian plans to go after Nova and offers payment in pteropods for volunteers to go with him. However, all this is interrupted by the arrival of Cy, Wren’s father, who some of the Askalan’s remember as Ronan. Naturally from Cy’s point of view he was thrown out of Askala for not being good enough. It seems he has forgotten what he did to the pteropods, and the whole illegal action of stealing bound chips. Cy soon begins to wreak his revenge on his old friends that he perceives as enemies. He holds his very own ceremony where Bound and Unbound alike are expected to declare him as leader. Anyone who does not declare Cy leader is beaten and are to be banished.
There’s a great scene between Kian and Dex, where Dex encourages a Kian to still go find Nova. Kian is once again torn between the love of his life and the love and duty to Askala. In the end Kian names Dex as leader of Askala in his absence and leaves with fellow Bound Shiloh and Unbounds Finn and Dean. Dean wants to leave Askala as Cy is his brother and they really do not get on so he chooses the option that suits him the most. It soon becomes apparent that Dean could be an asset as he is strong so helps with the rowing and when they land on the shores of the Outlands and head into the same Outlanders that Nova, Flick & Thom ran into Kian shows his naivety and ends up parting with some of their precious pteropod food source in exchange for information that isn’t very good. Dean comes across as a bit more street wise, as an Unbound he is suspicious of people “wanting to help”.
Back in Askala, Dex is trying to help the Alaskan’s, made up of Bound and Unbound that have refused to call Cy leader. When there’s a confrontation between Cy and Dex and Wren reacts her father Cy, is quick to order his men to hold her back and keeps a closer eye on his daughter. He is not impressed by her feelings for Dex, even though Dex is the son Mercy, the woman he declares he has never stopped loving all these years. Things begin to look pretty bleak for Dex and his band of followers when Cy orders them to be banished to the forest for the bears to eat. However, help comes from a surprising source.
I enjoyed the way Bound and Unbound united in this book to fight a common enemy, to stand firm on what they believe in. Though it was a shame that Cy came along just as Kian was planning to make so many changes for the better that should have brought a more equal society.
In this book we saw different sides to some of the characters, such as Flick wasn’t as selfish and created a great bond with Nova when she revealed she was pregnant, assuring her she would be with her to help. Dean seems to redeem himself a little and really find his place in the Outlands, but he plans on forming an army to fight Cy as he believes that will be the only way to regain control of Askala from him.
You can already see the parental sides of Nova and Kian coming out when they become attached and take care of Luca a young resident of Fairbanks.
I immediately fell in love with the characters of Avis, a woman whose babies had been snatched from her and was cast out alone, but had the strength to help create a safe haven for other youngsters and those who were different. The type of people that would be considered disfigured or disabled.
I had my doubts with both Wren and Phoenix at different points in this book, wondering why they didn’t stand up for their new friends. Though you do realise when you “see” them with Cy that though he loves them, it’s a tough kind of love and they can easily fall out of favour with him. Ultimately his word is law, but how far will they let him go in Askala before they choose a side and stick with it to whatever the end may be. Wren seems quieter in this book wary of her father, worried about showing her feelings for Dex too much in front of her father and being unsure if Dex will still love her after discovering who her father is. It’s like Wren and Phoenix are different people, they have a role they have to slip into when they are with Cy, both to fit in and to survive. Who would have thought Phoenix could have a soppy side and want to find someone to fall in love with and be envious of Wren’s budding relationship with Dex. Who could Phoenix fall in love with? I mean he hints he really liked Nova, but Nova only had eyes for Kian, so he had no chance there! Hmm I’m thinking (without explaining as it could give spoilers away) Shiloh, or Flick maybe.
Finn an unbound Askalan resident seems to find love in this book too, with Dharma who lives in the relative safety of the home Avis has created called Fairbanks.
I had some ideas, or inklings/suspicions on a few of the mysteries brought up in this book, as to who Avis and her children are. The really subtle hints are there to spot and then there’s a further much clearer hint before the end revelation.
Again, I found the writing and world building fantastic, the subtle hints at what is to come. The characters are so well thought out and the authors have put both good and not so good qualities in the “haves” and the “have nots” in this book. Even though initially the Outlanders are categorised as being tough and are portrayed as being violent towards Nova and Flick, their eventual rescuer, Avis is also an Outlander, and yes, she is tough, she has had to be to survive but she is also fair and kind. I enjoyed how the different Askalan & Outlander generations had different thoughts on what the future should look like. Magnus and Amity believe they must continue living as they are with the Bound and Unbound as it is the only way the earth will recover. Magnus makes it abundantly clear to Kian he doesn’t agree with the direction he wants to take Askala in. Kian thinks that whatever the Askalan people have should be shared equally between the Bound and Unbound. Kian wants to stop using the labels of Bound, and Unbound, especially as he and Nova have a child coming into the world they are living in. Where would their child fit in within the current parameters of their society as it has a Bound father and an Unbound mother. Cy, of the same generation as Magnus, wants to be the ultimate leader and everyone that stands with him can share in the bounty so long as they do as he says. If they disagree then they are banished to the forest. Wren and Phoenix the same generation as Kian, Nova and Dex have a similar view as Kian and want an equal fair society for all, but how can they get Cy to see reason? What will have to happen for them to openly stand against him? I could honestly ramble on about the differences and similarities between different characters, as well as lots of possible future scenarios and possible outcomes. This amazing series really has you thinking about society, and the whole reasoning between the separation of the Askalan’s into Bound, Unbound and High Bound. With what is happening in the world right now you cannot help but draw comparisons with real life.
My immediate thoughts upon finishing reading this book were
Wow! ....just wow!
To sum up this book was as action packed as the other books in the series and there was so much action going on both in Askala and in the Outlands. The ending! What a cliff hanger! What a book! It left me with so many questions and theories. When is Wren going to remember to check out what Phoenix told her to? Is Phoenix going to end up with Flick or Shiloh....or someone else? I love Luca and how Nova & Kian seem to have officially adopted him! Will they need Dean's remnant army after all? I am really looking forward to Avis reuniting with her children, and those children learning the truth! I bet that will be a bit of a tear jerker! What more can I say? . . .Oh ...yes....when can I read Reckoning?
One more thing I honestly I wouldn't compare this brilliant series to The Hunger Games & Divergent, hand on heart I love this series more!! There are a few small elements that are similar, such as there being factions in Divergent, districts in The Hunger Games and the Bound and Unbound in this series. I certainly agree with the comparison in that this series could be turned into films or a TV series, though I would want Tamar & Heidi to have a lot of input so it was kept true to the books. I think that it would be as popular as The Hunger Games & Divergent but in its own right as it has its own feel and uniqueness. Highly recommend reading this series, and I am both looking forward to reading more, yet at the same time dreading the series coming to an end.
In this book our favourite characters all seem to have to separate in order to fight for a future and favourable outcome for Askala. Unbound Nova pregnant by her Bound ex-boyfriend Kian feels neither she nor her unborn child have any sort of future in Askal and when she discovers their plan impulsively flees with Thom and Flick who is also pregnant. Thom cleverly adapts a raft adding a sail which he hopes will provide extra speed to their journey across the ocean to the Outlands. Unfortunately, they are not as far as they would have liked to be across the ocean when a bad storm hits. The very thing that had helped them now puts them at more risk as the lightening strikes ever nearer the pole the sail is tied to. Disaster strikes as they are all thrown into the sea. Flick and Nova soon realise they may have been seeing the prospect of the Outlands through “rose-coloured” glasses and are soon in trouble. The Askalan’s are quite naïve and seem to expect everyone to have the type of “be kind” ethic they have. They assume that people will help them for nothing in return which Nova and Flick are at first shocked by and then horrified when they realise what they may be expected to do in return for a favour. Luckily for them there are still some kind hearted people in the Outlands and they are rescued by a disfigured woman called Avis who has created a home in what is left of the city.
Meanwhile in Askala, Kian plans to go after Nova and offers payment in pteropods for volunteers to go with him. However, all this is interrupted by the arrival of Cy, Wren’s father, who some of the Askalan’s remember as Ronan. Naturally from Cy’s point of view he was thrown out of Askala for not being good enough. It seems he has forgotten what he did to the pteropods, and the whole illegal action of stealing bound chips. Cy soon begins to wreak his revenge on his old friends that he perceives as enemies. He holds his very own ceremony where Bound and Unbound alike are expected to declare him as leader. Anyone who does not declare Cy leader is beaten and are to be banished.
There’s a great scene between Kian and Dex, where Dex encourages a Kian to still go find Nova. Kian is once again torn between the love of his life and the love and duty to Askala. In the end Kian names Dex as leader of Askala in his absence and leaves with fellow Bound Shiloh and Unbounds Finn and Dean. Dean wants to leave Askala as Cy is his brother and they really do not get on so he chooses the option that suits him the most. It soon becomes apparent that Dean could be an asset as he is strong so helps with the rowing and when they land on the shores of the Outlands and head into the same Outlanders that Nova, Flick & Thom ran into Kian shows his naivety and ends up parting with some of their precious pteropod food source in exchange for information that isn’t very good. Dean comes across as a bit more street wise, as an Unbound he is suspicious of people “wanting to help”.
Back in Askala, Dex is trying to help the Alaskan’s, made up of Bound and Unbound that have refused to call Cy leader. When there’s a confrontation between Cy and Dex and Wren reacts her father Cy, is quick to order his men to hold her back and keeps a closer eye on his daughter. He is not impressed by her feelings for Dex, even though Dex is the son Mercy, the woman he declares he has never stopped loving all these years. Things begin to look pretty bleak for Dex and his band of followers when Cy orders them to be banished to the forest for the bears to eat. However, help comes from a surprising source.
I enjoyed the way Bound and Unbound united in this book to fight a common enemy, to stand firm on what they believe in. Though it was a shame that Cy came along just as Kian was planning to make so many changes for the better that should have brought a more equal society.
In this book we saw different sides to some of the characters, such as Flick wasn’t as selfish and created a great bond with Nova when she revealed she was pregnant, assuring her she would be with her to help. Dean seems to redeem himself a little and really find his place in the Outlands, but he plans on forming an army to fight Cy as he believes that will be the only way to regain control of Askala from him.
You can already see the parental sides of Nova and Kian coming out when they become attached and take care of Luca a young resident of Fairbanks.
I immediately fell in love with the characters of Avis, a woman whose babies had been snatched from her and was cast out alone, but had the strength to help create a safe haven for other youngsters and those who were different. The type of people that would be considered disfigured or disabled.
I had my doubts with both Wren and Phoenix at different points in this book, wondering why they didn’t stand up for their new friends. Though you do realise when you “see” them with Cy that though he loves them, it’s a tough kind of love and they can easily fall out of favour with him. Ultimately his word is law, but how far will they let him go in Askala before they choose a side and stick with it to whatever the end may be. Wren seems quieter in this book wary of her father, worried about showing her feelings for Dex too much in front of her father and being unsure if Dex will still love her after discovering who her father is. It’s like Wren and Phoenix are different people, they have a role they have to slip into when they are with Cy, both to fit in and to survive. Who would have thought Phoenix could have a soppy side and want to find someone to fall in love with and be envious of Wren’s budding relationship with Dex. Who could Phoenix fall in love with? I mean he hints he really liked Nova, but Nova only had eyes for Kian, so he had no chance there! Hmm I’m thinking (without explaining as it could give spoilers away) Shiloh, or Flick maybe.
Finn an unbound Askalan resident seems to find love in this book too, with Dharma who lives in the relative safety of the home Avis has created called Fairbanks.
I had some ideas, or inklings/suspicions on a few of the mysteries brought up in this book, as to who Avis and her children are. The really subtle hints are there to spot and then there’s a further much clearer hint before the end revelation.
Again, I found the writing and world building fantastic, the subtle hints at what is to come. The characters are so well thought out and the authors have put both good and not so good qualities in the “haves” and the “have nots” in this book. Even though initially the Outlanders are categorised as being tough and are portrayed as being violent towards Nova and Flick, their eventual rescuer, Avis is also an Outlander, and yes, she is tough, she has had to be to survive but she is also fair and kind. I enjoyed how the different Askalan & Outlander generations had different thoughts on what the future should look like. Magnus and Amity believe they must continue living as they are with the Bound and Unbound as it is the only way the earth will recover. Magnus makes it abundantly clear to Kian he doesn’t agree with the direction he wants to take Askala in. Kian thinks that whatever the Askalan people have should be shared equally between the Bound and Unbound. Kian wants to stop using the labels of Bound, and Unbound, especially as he and Nova have a child coming into the world they are living in. Where would their child fit in within the current parameters of their society as it has a Bound father and an Unbound mother. Cy, of the same generation as Magnus, wants to be the ultimate leader and everyone that stands with him can share in the bounty so long as they do as he says. If they disagree then they are banished to the forest. Wren and Phoenix the same generation as Kian, Nova and Dex have a similar view as Kian and want an equal fair society for all, but how can they get Cy to see reason? What will have to happen for them to openly stand against him? I could honestly ramble on about the differences and similarities between different characters, as well as lots of possible future scenarios and possible outcomes. This amazing series really has you thinking about society, and the whole reasoning between the separation of the Askalan’s into Bound, Unbound and High Bound. With what is happening in the world right now you cannot help but draw comparisons with real life.
My immediate thoughts upon finishing reading this book were
Wow! ....just wow!
To sum up this book was as action packed as the other books in the series and there was so much action going on both in Askala and in the Outlands. The ending! What a cliff hanger! What a book! It left me with so many questions and theories. When is Wren going to remember to check out what Phoenix told her to? Is Phoenix going to end up with Flick or Shiloh....or someone else? I love Luca and how Nova & Kian seem to have officially adopted him! Will they need Dean's remnant army after all? I am really looking forward to Avis reuniting with her children, and those children learning the truth! I bet that will be a bit of a tear jerker! What more can I say? . . .Oh ...yes....when can I read Reckoning?
One more thing I honestly I wouldn't compare this brilliant series to The Hunger Games & Divergent, hand on heart I love this series more!! There are a few small elements that are similar, such as there being factions in Divergent, districts in The Hunger Games and the Bound and Unbound in this series. I certainly agree with the comparison in that this series could be turned into films or a TV series, though I would want Tamar & Heidi to have a lot of input so it was kept true to the books. I think that it would be as popular as The Hunger Games & Divergent but in its own right as it has its own feel and uniqueness. Highly recommend reading this series, and I am both looking forward to reading more, yet at the same time dreading the series coming to an end.
April 2, 2020
Paris, France. Mission: Covid-19 Lockdown, Day #16
Please, stay safe and take care of you and your loved ones. Coronavirus is a carnivorous disease. There's no cure or vaccine available at the moment, unfortunaltely.
@who #stayhomesavelives
Can there be a safe haven, in possibly the unsafest place on Earth ? Big question at the moment and main topic of this fantastic dystopian series. And...
Arrggghhhh, I thought book three was last book in the series, but noooooooo !
Book four, Reckoning is coming soon, hopefully.
« In the greatest battle for Askala yet, sides will be chosen and loyalty will be tested. Is it possible that love and intelligence were the key all along ? »
Please, stay safe and take care of you and your loved ones. Coronavirus is a carnivorous disease. There's no cure or vaccine available at the moment, unfortunaltely.
@who #stayhomesavelives
Can there be a safe haven, in possibly the unsafest place on Earth ? Big question at the moment and main topic of this fantastic dystopian series. And...
Arrggghhhh, I thought book three was last book in the series, but noooooooo !
Book four, Reckoning is coming soon, hopefully.
« In the greatest battle for Askala yet, sides will be chosen and loyalty will be tested. Is it possible that love and intelligence were the key all along ? »
Read
September 30, 2025A little too much fluff in some parts but overall this was a good installment to the series. We got to witness new relationships, the strength (or lack thereof) of two societies, and civil war. I’m excited to find out how they conquer Cys army of fuck boys
February 28, 2021
Following the tale of these four teens has been entertaining. Book two was a fantastic page-turner. I found this one much darker than the second. I will admit that I knocked it down a star because I didn't care much about Kian/Nova's story. I read through it quickly just to get to Dex (who is quickly becoming my absolute favorite male protagonist in YA so far, with Quinn from Breathe and Aiden from Renegades narrowly beating him out).
October 23, 2021
Electricity? Seriously?
Where did the electricity come from? Whose providing it? If there is an electrical plant, there must be civilization nearby.
Aside from that obvious plot hole, Wren drove me up a wall in this book. She was my favorite character up to this point, and then in this book she had me tearing my hair out.
Where did the electricity come from? Whose providing it? If there is an electrical plant, there must be civilization nearby.
Aside from that obvious plot hole, Wren drove me up a wall in this book. She was my favorite character up to this point, and then in this book she had me tearing my hair out.
June 25, 2023
P!ot holes
I'm beginning to find fault in the setting, I'm unsure how a child raised in desolation would know the phrase "aye aye captain". Where is the electricity coming from? Where did they get woolen blankets? How far after the collapse of society as we know it is this?
Overall I'm enjoying the series but I'm beginning to have more cons than pros.
I'm beginning to find fault in the setting, I'm unsure how a child raised in desolation would know the phrase "aye aye captain". Where is the electricity coming from? Where did they get woolen blankets? How far after the collapse of society as we know it is this?
Overall I'm enjoying the series but I'm beginning to have more cons than pros.
July 29, 2022
Best one of the series so far!
Click here for my notes and highlights!
I've more or less forgiven my previous complaints of the lack of proper foundation to this world. With each new entry, more is revealed about the customs and lifestyle of Askala, which is where most of these stories are taking place. I can deal with gradual reveals. Granted, I'd love to know more little details of how things specifically work in this world, like the chips in people's hands or what they're using to sterilize people, but I suppose it's not super crucial to my appreciation of the story itself. I have an imagination, and I don't mind using it.
Anyway, like I said before, this is definitely the best book of the series this far in. Obviously, I've got more to go, but given what this book specifically delivered to me, it may be a while before another one will come close to it. There was just so much GOODNESS here. The action, drama, tension, and revelations were so frickin' exciting to be a part of. I was stressed, concerned, shocked, saddened. All the feels. I always like to say that when a book manages to get me to care, that's a winning book.
Stakes are running higher now that the commander of the Outlands has arrived to Askala with a large number of his men. They're obviously causing a fuss, and now our main cast of lovable teenagers Wren, Nova, Dex, and Kian have to somehow claw their way into some semblance of a fight to defend their home. So much GROWTH with our core four! They almost don't even feel like teenagers anymore, not that they ever did. I love that the Outlands have now come into the picture, loved all the secrets revealed and guarantee for more of them.
Character development is pretty much the main feature that wowed me along with all the shocking revelations. I can't wait to continue into the next entry of the series, especially given the dramatically shocking cliffhanger this book had. Good gawd! I'm all in now.
Click here for my notes and highlights!
I've more or less forgiven my previous complaints of the lack of proper foundation to this world. With each new entry, more is revealed about the customs and lifestyle of Askala, which is where most of these stories are taking place. I can deal with gradual reveals. Granted, I'd love to know more little details of how things specifically work in this world, like the chips in people's hands or what they're using to sterilize people, but I suppose it's not super crucial to my appreciation of the story itself. I have an imagination, and I don't mind using it.
Anyway, like I said before, this is definitely the best book of the series this far in. Obviously, I've got more to go, but given what this book specifically delivered to me, it may be a while before another one will come close to it. There was just so much GOODNESS here. The action, drama, tension, and revelations were so frickin' exciting to be a part of. I was stressed, concerned, shocked, saddened. All the feels. I always like to say that when a book manages to get me to care, that's a winning book.
Stakes are running higher now that the commander of the Outlands has arrived to Askala with a large number of his men. They're obviously causing a fuss, and now our main cast of lovable teenagers Wren, Nova, Dex, and Kian have to somehow claw their way into some semblance of a fight to defend their home. So much GROWTH with our core four! They almost don't even feel like teenagers anymore, not that they ever did. I love that the Outlands have now come into the picture, loved all the secrets revealed and guarantee for more of them.
Character development is pretty much the main feature that wowed me along with all the shocking revelations. I can't wait to continue into the next entry of the series, especially given the dramatically shocking cliffhanger this book had. Good gawd! I'm all in now.
June 27, 2024
This whole series is starting to blur together. Someone said they felt like the authors just wrote one massive book and then divided it in random places. This is correct.
We’re told (not shown) a lot of things in this book. There’s evidence of lazy writing and the authors do a lot of “DON’T THINK ABOUT THIS OTHERWISE IT MAKES NO SENSE” (Askala had no army or way to defend themselves whatsoever?)
The book is riddled with cringe (particularly any scene with Dex and Wren together), character inconsistencies
(again, particularly Dex and Wren); Dex recognizing Wren as a traitor but then deciding LOL he doesn’t actually care if she’s a traitor or not cuz :) :) ? ? Love or something? / Wren being a total badass and then suddenly abandoning that and suddenly all her sentences are about her heart contracting for Dex??? And the end where she says she’s not sorry that she, Dex, and EVERYONE ELSE is about to BURN to death in the lab because she doesn’t regret it because she’s with Dex <333 ???????
And also scene inconsistencies, such as Nova and Flick (name changed from Felicia to Flick for absolutely no reason since the authors continued to use both) being “ready to run” and escape from the Outland guys even though they were JUST dizzy and literally starving to death A SECOND AGO.
Throwing in characters or pieces of information two pages before they become important. (Luca)
Characters that the authors thought would matter but then they forget to write more about them so they kinda stop mattering (Dean)
Thom’s death was written so quickly (1 paragraph total?) that I didn’t really care about it.
Stfu about Flick having curly hair please.
Although I will say the lab burning cliff hanger was good and I hope the authors commit and actually kill some people off, preferably Dex AND Wren.
I’m reading this because it’s already on my kindle and puts me to sleep quickly.
We’re told (not shown) a lot of things in this book. There’s evidence of lazy writing and the authors do a lot of “DON’T THINK ABOUT THIS OTHERWISE IT MAKES NO SENSE” (Askala had no army or way to defend themselves whatsoever?)
The book is riddled with cringe (particularly any scene with Dex and Wren together), character inconsistencies
(again, particularly Dex and Wren); Dex recognizing Wren as a traitor but then deciding LOL he doesn’t actually care if she’s a traitor or not cuz :) :) ? ? Love or something? / Wren being a total badass and then suddenly abandoning that and suddenly all her sentences are about her heart contracting for Dex??? And the end where she says she’s not sorry that she, Dex, and EVERYONE ELSE is about to BURN to death in the lab because she doesn’t regret it because she’s with Dex <333 ???????
And also scene inconsistencies, such as Nova and Flick (name changed from Felicia to Flick for absolutely no reason since the authors continued to use both) being “ready to run” and escape from the Outland guys even though they were JUST dizzy and literally starving to death A SECOND AGO.
Throwing in characters or pieces of information two pages before they become important. (Luca)
Characters that the authors thought would matter but then they forget to write more about them so they kinda stop mattering (Dean)
Thom’s death was written so quickly (1 paragraph total?) that I didn’t really care about it.
Stfu about Flick having curly hair please.
Although I will say the lab burning cliff hanger was good and I hope the authors commit and actually kill some people off, preferably Dex AND Wren.
I’m reading this because it’s already on my kindle and puts me to sleep quickly.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 20, 2020
without any doubt…. the Best Dystopian Series of this Decade
„Falling“ (Burning Series Book 3) takes on immediately after the events depicted in “Breaking”. Kian, Dex, Nova and Flick are still dealing with the consequences of the last Proving, which placed them on opposite sites of Askala’s social system. A system that divides its subjects either in Bound or Unbound. While the first are deemed fully responsible for Askala survival and its thriving, the later are “well cared for” but denied any fulfilling position in society and even the right to procreation.
The system which seems to have been working so well for so long, began to collapse as Nova was deemed unworthy and became Unbound and Kian was elected the new High Bound leader, while Wren (an outsider, supposed to lack the values Askalan worships so much) was declared Bound.
In “Falling” the events rush after another, as Wren infiltration role and possible betrayal come to light and Ronan finally comes back. All the while Nova, Flick and Thom have their own battle to fight, as they flee Askala in search of a new beginning. Everything will be called into question, revealing not only Askala’s flaws but also the appalling truth about everyday life and survival in the Outlands.
“Falling” is the most elaborate book of the Series until now (it is even possible? Yes, it is! This Series is getting better with each new book, the story is compelling, the characters very well developed, with an extraordinary well crafted and alarmingly credible world, that leaves a lasting impression in the reader, without disregarding the action and mere enjoyment a good story should always offer.
„Falling“ (Burning Series Book 3) takes on immediately after the events depicted in “Breaking”. Kian, Dex, Nova and Flick are still dealing with the consequences of the last Proving, which placed them on opposite sites of Askala’s social system. A system that divides its subjects either in Bound or Unbound. While the first are deemed fully responsible for Askala survival and its thriving, the later are “well cared for” but denied any fulfilling position in society and even the right to procreation.
The system which seems to have been working so well for so long, began to collapse as Nova was deemed unworthy and became Unbound and Kian was elected the new High Bound leader, while Wren (an outsider, supposed to lack the values Askalan worships so much) was declared Bound.
In “Falling” the events rush after another, as Wren infiltration role and possible betrayal come to light and Ronan finally comes back. All the while Nova, Flick and Thom have their own battle to fight, as they flee Askala in search of a new beginning. Everything will be called into question, revealing not only Askala’s flaws but also the appalling truth about everyday life and survival in the Outlands.
“Falling” is the most elaborate book of the Series until now (it is even possible? Yes, it is! This Series is getting better with each new book, the story is compelling, the characters very well developed, with an extraordinary well crafted and alarmingly credible world, that leaves a lasting impression in the reader, without disregarding the action and mere enjoyment a good story should always offer.
May 15, 2020
So freaking good!
Holy moley what a ride! Our favorite four are back everyone, and this installment is an adventure from beginning to end.
Kian and Dex are trying to pick up the pieces of their lives after Nova and Wren have disappeared. Nova is going whatever lengths it takes to protect her unborn child. Wren is trying to do what she thinks is right by bringing her father to the island.
I really like that we get to learn more about the world outside of Askala in this installment. We learn more about the people (the good and the bad), and what they are willing to do to survive. It's an apocalypse world, there are going to be some harsh truths for our young an innocent Askalans will have to learn. We also learn more about what the landscape outside of Askala looks like. The island our protagonists live on is full of life thanks to the Askalans' care. The little bit of the outside world we see is, well, not.
After not having seen Ronan since the prequel novella, I kind of knew that wasn't going to be the last we saw if him. It's interesting to see how he's changed. He's come back for revenge against the people that he believes wronged him, and to reclaim the woman he loved. Something in him has warped, and he's become more dangerous than ever.
All in all, this is an awesome continuation of this amazing series. Loyalties are tested, and new bonds are forged as we discover new allies. I commend the authors on this well told and amazing story. I cannot what happens next!
Holy moley what a ride! Our favorite four are back everyone, and this installment is an adventure from beginning to end.
Kian and Dex are trying to pick up the pieces of their lives after Nova and Wren have disappeared. Nova is going whatever lengths it takes to protect her unborn child. Wren is trying to do what she thinks is right by bringing her father to the island.
I really like that we get to learn more about the world outside of Askala in this installment. We learn more about the people (the good and the bad), and what they are willing to do to survive. It's an apocalypse world, there are going to be some harsh truths for our young an innocent Askalans will have to learn. We also learn more about what the landscape outside of Askala looks like. The island our protagonists live on is full of life thanks to the Askalans' care. The little bit of the outside world we see is, well, not.
After not having seen Ronan since the prequel novella, I kind of knew that wasn't going to be the last we saw if him. It's interesting to see how he's changed. He's come back for revenge against the people that he believes wronged him, and to reclaim the woman he loved. Something in him has warped, and he's become more dangerous than ever.
All in all, this is an awesome continuation of this amazing series. Loyalties are tested, and new bonds are forged as we discover new allies. I commend the authors on this well told and amazing story. I cannot what happens next!
April 29, 2020
Only the chosen shall breed.
Nova, Kian, Dex, and Wren.
Four divided hearts. Four teens no longer sure what they’re fighting for.
Their society was meant to mold human evolution. Their future, and that of Earth, was to be decided by the kindest and smartest. Askala was supposed to be a beacon of hope in a flooded, desecrated world.
Except the line between the Bound and Unbound is blurring. The Outlands is no longer some distant, faceless world. And the Remnants have a leader who knows more about them than any Remnant before.
In a world devastated by global warming, the fight for survival has always been deadly. Now, the battle for Askala is about to define the very future of humanity.
But...does the greatest threat lie within?
This is a wonderful addition to this thrilling series!
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believeable.
Great suspense and action with wonderful world building that adds so much to the story.
Such a thrilling read that I couldn't put it down.
Can't wait to read more of these.
Recommend reading.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
Nova, Kian, Dex, and Wren.
Four divided hearts. Four teens no longer sure what they’re fighting for.
Their society was meant to mold human evolution. Their future, and that of Earth, was to be decided by the kindest and smartest. Askala was supposed to be a beacon of hope in a flooded, desecrated world.
Except the line between the Bound and Unbound is blurring. The Outlands is no longer some distant, faceless world. And the Remnants have a leader who knows more about them than any Remnant before.
In a world devastated by global warming, the fight for survival has always been deadly. Now, the battle for Askala is about to define the very future of humanity.
But...does the greatest threat lie within?
This is a wonderful addition to this thrilling series!
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believeable.
Great suspense and action with wonderful world building that adds so much to the story.
Such a thrilling read that I couldn't put it down.
Can't wait to read more of these.
Recommend reading.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
June 8, 2020
This book took me a little longer to finish than previous installments in the series because COVID-19. But once I finally got a chance to get into it, boy did I get into it.
This might have been the most intense, gut-twisting, heart-wrenching part of the story so far. Everything has fallen so completely apart in this novel that one starts to wonder how anything can be right again. Nova and Wren have both disappeared and Kian and Dex are struggling with that knowledge and how it relates to the duty they feel to Askala.
This book gives us our first real look at life outside of Askala, which was at once terrible and fascinating. We see what life on the fringes has done to many of the people there, which also raises new questions about the effectiveness and moral implications of the system Askala clings to so desperately.
Everything gets turned on its head and once again we’re taken for an incredibly wild ride. I don’t know how they manage to keep doing it, but this series just continues to get better and better.
This might have been the most intense, gut-twisting, heart-wrenching part of the story so far. Everything has fallen so completely apart in this novel that one starts to wonder how anything can be right again. Nova and Wren have both disappeared and Kian and Dex are struggling with that knowledge and how it relates to the duty they feel to Askala.
This book gives us our first real look at life outside of Askala, which was at once terrible and fascinating. We see what life on the fringes has done to many of the people there, which also raises new questions about the effectiveness and moral implications of the system Askala clings to so desperately.
Everything gets turned on its head and once again we’re taken for an incredibly wild ride. I don’t know how they manage to keep doing it, but this series just continues to get better and better.
May 18, 2020
“Is it better to be ready and embrace the death that comes to you, or is it better to be unprepared and have your life taken without warning?”
The third installment in the after the thaw series. Again I’m in love with the books in this series. The character development is top notch. I love all the twist and turns in their decision making processes. This series asks all the age old questions of what would you do and what is moral. Does the needs of the many outweigh the needs of one?
We get our first real look at the outlands in this one as Nova escapes for reasons..... we get to see all of our MC’s come to grips with their allegiances to the new world order. This one keeps you on the edge of your seats with just the right mix of quiet and pulse pounding action. Ends in a cliffhanger that makes you crave the next book. The series is definitely working it’s way to my top reads of the year.
The third installment in the after the thaw series. Again I’m in love with the books in this series. The character development is top notch. I love all the twist and turns in their decision making processes. This series asks all the age old questions of what would you do and what is moral. Does the needs of the many outweigh the needs of one?
We get our first real look at the outlands in this one as Nova escapes for reasons..... we get to see all of our MC’s come to grips with their allegiances to the new world order. This one keeps you on the edge of your seats with just the right mix of quiet and pulse pounding action. Ends in a cliffhanger that makes you crave the next book. The series is definitely working it’s way to my top reads of the year.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 11, 2020
After reading this book, I wanted to write and post this review to share my honest experiences toward the story.
After reading the previous books in this series, I did not think it could get any better — like, such a high level of greatness was already achieved and it would be nearly impossible to raise the bar higher.
I was wrong, and Falling proves just how much more awesome this series has become. In the third book of this amazing series, things we saw in the prequel novella start to make an appearance, and the stakes are higher than ever for our favourite heroes. It is a captivating, enthralling read that keeps you hooked until the very last page, and is written and presented in an exemplary manner. I simply cannot wait for the next book!
After reading the previous books in this series, I did not think it could get any better — like, such a high level of greatness was already achieved and it would be nearly impossible to raise the bar higher.
I was wrong, and Falling proves just how much more awesome this series has become. In the third book of this amazing series, things we saw in the prequel novella start to make an appearance, and the stakes are higher than ever for our favourite heroes. It is a captivating, enthralling read that keeps you hooked until the very last page, and is written and presented in an exemplary manner. I simply cannot wait for the next book!
March 28, 2020
Wow things have gotten even more fight for life dire in Askala and the outlands. The high commander has arrived in Askala and the world has become divided between those who are choosing to following the new leader and those who are not. Meanwhile in the outlands those who have fled from Askala are in for awakening and a fight for survival and those who have come to rescue them. I was on the edge of my seat the whole time reading this novel. The ending will have your heart in your throat as it a hell of a cliff hanger. I am reading for the next one and it can’t come soon enough. This will feel your need for high stakes dystopian like nothing else out their right now.
March 30, 2020
(4,5 stars)
Everything seems to go to hell in this book, and I REALLY hate when people take power and the liberty to do whatever they want, no matter who or how much they hurt! It's hard to read, which shows just how well developed the characters are. Nova, Kian, Dex and Wren keep changing chapters, which gives me some time to breathe in between...
I thought this was the last book in a trilogy, but I recently found out that it's one more on the way! Yay! And the cliffhanger in this book... cruel! How long will I have to wait until the ending?!
* I received an ARC from the authors, and despite how I feel about being left hanging, I'm greatful for the opportunity to read and review! *
Everything seems to go to hell in this book, and I REALLY hate when people take power and the liberty to do whatever they want, no matter who or how much they hurt! It's hard to read, which shows just how well developed the characters are. Nova, Kian, Dex and Wren keep changing chapters, which gives me some time to breathe in between...
I thought this was the last book in a trilogy, but I recently found out that it's one more on the way! Yay! And the cliffhanger in this book... cruel! How long will I have to wait until the ending?!
* I received an ARC from the authors, and despite how I feel about being left hanging, I'm greatful for the opportunity to read and review! *
March 10, 2025
Falling
After the Thaw #3
Dystopian
Tamar Sloan, Heidi Catherine
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
• ᴅᴇꜱᴘᴇʀᴀᴛɪᴏɴ • ꜰɪɢʜᴛɪɴɢ • ꜱᴜʀᴠɪᴠᴀʟ •
I still like the characters and their growth. The new ones were a nice addition, they fit in well with the others and had their own roles to play.
Ronan was cruel and he was written well, considering I couldn't stand him and that's exactly how I was meant to feel about him.
The fighting was tense and had me on the edge of my seat.
I did predict certain plot twists but others were a surprise and I liked how they all linked together.
The ending was a really good cliff hanger.
After the Thaw #3
Dystopian
Tamar Sloan, Heidi Catherine
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
• ᴅᴇꜱᴘᴇʀᴀᴛɪᴏɴ • ꜰɪɢʜᴛɪɴɢ • ꜱᴜʀᴠɪᴠᴀʟ •
I still like the characters and their growth. The new ones were a nice addition, they fit in well with the others and had their own roles to play.
Ronan was cruel and he was written well, considering I couldn't stand him and that's exactly how I was meant to feel about him.
The fighting was tense and had me on the edge of my seat.
I did predict certain plot twists but others were a surprise and I liked how they all linked together.
The ending was a really good cliff hanger.
March 26, 2020
Omg such a good book!! I’ve been fighting with whether or not I like Wren or if she’s just shady but she definitely redeems herself in this book. And Nova and Kian are just that adorable match that shouldn’t be, but that of course won’t stop them. Especially if Kian can make the changes he want to before Cy can destroy everything Askala has ever worked for. I was interesting to learn about the areas just outside of Askala and how they are fairing in this new life and how they see members of Askala.
April 21, 2020
Tragic yet hopeful
Tragedy strikes and everyone and everything is effected by it! This has been the darkest book of all so far. Nevertheless hope is entwined in each tragedy. Each character goes through so much development throughout the entire story and more than ever we find out everyone's true nature. There is so much emotion throughout this part of the story, it really drew me in as a reader. I loved this book, as I love this entire series! This definitely goes on my re-read shelf!!!
Tragedy strikes and everyone and everything is effected by it! This has been the darkest book of all so far. Nevertheless hope is entwined in each tragedy. Each character goes through so much development throughout the entire story and more than ever we find out everyone's true nature. There is so much emotion throughout this part of the story, it really drew me in as a reader. I loved this book, as I love this entire series! This definitely goes on my re-read shelf!!!
July 3, 2020
The better it gets... the better it gets!
I'm just consistently in awe of this series, and this coming from a reader who would never typically pick up a Dystopian fantasy novel. After The Thaw is such an exciting and refreshing concept, packed with high drama and superbly written characters. Falling, in its own right, offers more of the same irresistible action, emotion and suspense, yet this time, we also see the theme of teamwork to overcome adversity. There's some fantastic bread -crumbing of what's to come too...
I'm just consistently in awe of this series, and this coming from a reader who would never typically pick up a Dystopian fantasy novel. After The Thaw is such an exciting and refreshing concept, packed with high drama and superbly written characters. Falling, in its own right, offers more of the same irresistible action, emotion and suspense, yet this time, we also see the theme of teamwork to overcome adversity. There's some fantastic bread -crumbing of what's to come too...
December 3, 2022
Good read
Cy is a horrible person and he plans to rule the ship he has taken over. Dex is in charge while Kien went for Nova. The only hope for those hiding in the lab is Wren. Nova left with Felicia to see if they could survive the outlands. Never did she realize that they would loose Felicia s boyfriend so quickly. Murder is a way of life in the outlands.
Will they live or die?
Read on my friee.
Cy is a horrible person and he plans to rule the ship he has taken over. Dex is in charge while Kien went for Nova. The only hope for those hiding in the lab is Wren. Nova left with Felicia to see if they could survive the outlands. Never did she realize that they would loose Felicia s boyfriend so quickly. Murder is a way of life in the outlands.
Will they live or die?
Read on my friee.
June 29, 2021
4.5 stars
This series continues to catch me by surprise.
Nothing has happened the way I would've expected. I'm still not quite sure how I feel about certain parts, particularly how it ended, but thankfully I have the next one ready to go.
So far, I would def recommend these books. Like the description says... if you like the Hunger Games, Divergent, ect... this series is for you!
This series continues to catch me by surprise.
Nothing has happened the way I would've expected. I'm still not quite sure how I feel about certain parts, particularly how it ended, but thankfully I have the next one ready to go.
So far, I would def recommend these books. Like the description says... if you like the Hunger Games, Divergent, ect... this series is for you!
December 24, 2022
UNKNOWNS & REUNIONS & ACTION IN A WORLD AFTER CLIMATE CHANGE WREAKS HAVOC!!!
Soooo many unknowns in this one that bring about some answers, but mostly more questions…. Alliances are beyond tested…. Romances are challenged or grow deeper…. Lots of ACTION & I COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN!!! LOVED IT!!:-)
Soooo many unknowns in this one that bring about some answers, but mostly more questions…. Alliances are beyond tested…. Romances are challenged or grow deeper…. Lots of ACTION & I COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN!!! LOVED IT!!:-)
March 28, 2020
This book was amazing and eye opening. This futuristic tale of human greed and neglect of our planet is a rude awakening of what could be if we don’t nourish our planet instead of destroying it.
This is full of drama, romance and betrayal. I recommend this book and series to all.
This is full of drama, romance and betrayal. I recommend this book and series to all.
April 3, 2020
OOh man this story does pull me in, but so many things make no sense, Wren why bitch? And Cy the psycho I don't know why nobody killed you yet. I want to know what happens next so I will be buying book 4.
April 17, 2020
Love this series!
Wish it never had to end! Hope I can find the next book in the series, although I’m so excited to check out what else my new favorite authors Heidi and Cat have produced!
Wish it never had to end! Hope I can find the next book in the series, although I’m so excited to check out what else my new favorite authors Heidi and Cat have produced!
May 30, 2020
OK... finished reading this one. Urgh, it wasn't what I had hoped for after the second book Breaking.
It was alright, Readable but certainly not as exciting as I had hoped.
I doubt I'll be continuing the series now, it just wasn't doing anything for me.
It was alright, Readable but certainly not as exciting as I had hoped.
I doubt I'll be continuing the series now, it just wasn't doing anything for me.
July 25, 2020
Loved this continuation. The second book was a tad slower, but this one was easy to read, could barely put it down and there was lots of action! I had to pick up the 4th book instantly. Loving these characters and this storyline. So happy with this series!
October 7, 2020
Suspense keeps building
And building. If you enjoyed the divergent series you will absolutely love these. I actually think these are better. Hard to put down and the story keeps unfolding. I'm going to be sad when it concludes.
And building. If you enjoyed the divergent series you will absolutely love these. I actually think these are better. Hard to put down and the story keeps unfolding. I'm going to be sad when it concludes.
October 14, 2020
Movie Worthy
Addicted to this series! I don't know that I've ever read series this quickly, I can't put it down! My only complaint is it's still overly wordy, and repetitive at times, but I've learned to skim through. And I didn't like the cliffhanger ending this time.
Addicted to this series! I don't know that I've ever read series this quickly, I can't put it down! My only complaint is it's still overly wordy, and repetitive at times, but I've learned to skim through. And I didn't like the cliffhanger ending this time.
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