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Life After Us #1
Poppy Bloom
Vicki Morel believes she and Will, her gorgeous fiancé, have it all. They’re living the American dream. That is, until Portland, Oregon is leveled by a terrorist grade light weapon, and she loses Will at the airport.
Ambrose Palamo is an aviation student who wants one thing: to go home to Samoa. But when Portland is leveled, and he meets Vicki, he promises to help her find her fiancé instead. What he doesn't expect is the feelings that start to form for her as they search the dangerous Oregon woodlands.
Sometimes love isn't what you think it is. The poppies bloom reminds them of what they’ve lost, while giving them the courage to face a brand new future.
Ambrose Palamo is an aviation student who wants one thing: to go home to Samoa. But when Portland is leveled, and he meets Vicki, he promises to help her find her fiancé instead. What he doesn't expect is the feelings that start to form for her as they search the dangerous Oregon woodlands.
Sometimes love isn't what you think it is. The poppies bloom reminds them of what they’ve lost, while giving them the courage to face a brand new future.
- GenresRomanceContemporary
170 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 3, 2019
59 people are currently reading
101 people want to read
About the author
Rebekah Dodson
75 books185 followersRebekah Dodson is a prolific word weaver of romance, fantasy, and science fiction novels. Her works include the series Postcards from Paris, The Surrogate, The Curse of Lanval series, several stand alone novels, and her upcoming YA novel, Clock City. She has been writing her whole life, with her first published work of historical fiction with 4H Clubs of America at the age of 12, and poetry at the age of 16 with the National Poetry Society. With an extensive academic background including education, history, psychology and English, she currently works as a college professor by day and a writer by night.
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November 15, 2018
I won't give spoilers but suffice to say, this isnt your ordinary romance novel.
Set in the future where America is on the brink of being overthrown by a group called World Without Americans.
It tells the story of a man anc woman thrown together in unusual circumstances.
I can't wait for Lavender Dreams.
Well written and 5☆ well deserved.
Set in the future where America is on the brink of being overthrown by a group called World Without Americans.
It tells the story of a man anc woman thrown together in unusual circumstances.
I can't wait for Lavender Dreams.
Well written and 5☆ well deserved.
May 26, 2022
This is set a bit into the future during a very unsettling time—I was intrigued by the world building straight away. I couldn’t help but notice that this would be more gripping with better writing—it was more prone to ‘telling’ rather than ‘showing’, so at times my attention was more forced than natural.
There’s no shortage of action and rage-inducing moments in this dark world. With better writing and an actual human-sounding person performing rather than just robotically reading, I feel this would be an unputdownable read worthy of 5 stars.
As it stands though, it’s around 3 stars. Could do with a developmental edit and heavy revision, as there are really good bones here. Dark, intriguing times in a slightly futuristic setting and one-dimensional characters that could fairly easily be evolved a bit.
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Audio:
The narration was a little tough to take, as it sounded very robotic. I was nearly 1 chapter in before I realized it is indeed a human, when it pronounced “confiscated” more like ‘confinscated’. Will not listen to anything by this narrator again. 2- star ‘performance’, using this word very loosely as there was no performance to be found here. I fear this narrator preyed upon this author, other authors: beware.
There’s no shortage of action and rage-inducing moments in this dark world. With better writing and an actual human-sounding person performing rather than just robotically reading, I feel this would be an unputdownable read worthy of 5 stars.
As it stands though, it’s around 3 stars. Could do with a developmental edit and heavy revision, as there are really good bones here. Dark, intriguing times in a slightly futuristic setting and one-dimensional characters that could fairly easily be evolved a bit.
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Audio:
The narration was a little tough to take, as it sounded very robotic. I was nearly 1 chapter in before I realized it is indeed a human, when it pronounced “confiscated” more like ‘confinscated’. Will not listen to anything by this narrator again. 2- star ‘performance’, using this word very loosely as there was no performance to be found here. I fear this narrator preyed upon this author, other authors: beware.
October 7, 2018
Oh my goodness! What a story! I could not put it down! Enough exclamation marks but I would recommend this book to all.
Vicki Morel is at the airport in Portland Oregon when it is blown up by a missile. Chaos ensues and Vicki can't find her fiance, Will. In order to escape from the terrorists, she joins up with an airport worker, Ambrose, who is desperate to get home to Samoa. Alone, they wouldn't survive but, together, they might. Neither one trusts the other but they have to stick together. The story shows us the horrors of a country being invaded by terrorists where no-one is sure who is on which side. But, as they travel through many adventures and close calls, Ambrose and Vicki get closer and closer in their search for a way out. Then it becomes apparent that Vicki is the one that the terrorists are searching for. They don't know why but it could be because of the work that her fiance does.
This is the first in a series so the ending leaves you hanging on a cliff edge but I can cope with that as long as I get to read the next instalment.
Rebekah Dodson is a fantastic writer and this is the second of her books which I have read and enjoyed. I would recommend to all.
Vicki Morel is at the airport in Portland Oregon when it is blown up by a missile. Chaos ensues and Vicki can't find her fiance, Will. In order to escape from the terrorists, she joins up with an airport worker, Ambrose, who is desperate to get home to Samoa. Alone, they wouldn't survive but, together, they might. Neither one trusts the other but they have to stick together. The story shows us the horrors of a country being invaded by terrorists where no-one is sure who is on which side. But, as they travel through many adventures and close calls, Ambrose and Vicki get closer and closer in their search for a way out. Then it becomes apparent that Vicki is the one that the terrorists are searching for. They don't know why but it could be because of the work that her fiance does.
This is the first in a series so the ending leaves you hanging on a cliff edge but I can cope with that as long as I get to read the next instalment.
Rebekah Dodson is a fantastic writer and this is the second of her books which I have read and enjoyed. I would recommend to all.
May 8, 2022
Interesting start to a series.
The worlds gone to crap.
Trigger warnings needed - racism, war, cheating, violence & death.
Short but to the point. Lots of action.
3 star listen, narration was average because chapter 9 has two people talking at the same time narrating different parts of the book. I had to skip the chapter.
Book ends in a Cliffhanger.
The worlds gone to crap.
Trigger warnings needed - racism, war, cheating, violence & death.
Short but to the point. Lots of action.
3 star listen, narration was average because chapter 9 has two people talking at the same time narrating different parts of the book. I had to skip the chapter.
Book ends in a Cliffhanger.
October 25, 2018
Before I get into the nitty gritty, I just want to say that my reading time was due to work and not the book.
Let me start by saying this is not your typical romance book. In fact, I got a very Hunger Games vibe from it right from the get go. Which throws me for a loop because the cover, although it is gorgeous, screams romance! And the story is definitely Dystopian with some romance thrown in, along with a bit of suspense and maybe a few moments of comedy. Oh, plus a couple of times where I absolutely just wanted to smack the ever loving shit out of the characters.
This is your one and ONLY reminder that SPOILERS are AHEAD. Read at your own risk.
The book opens with Vicki reminding Will of all the things he should have for his trip as they make their final preparations to leave for the airport. This all seems pretty normal, well sort of. The constant sound of gunfire is an everyday occurrence, at least in Vicki’s world. You know what isn’t normal, the way Will acts. Hmm, suspicion is on the rise.
Let me show you what I’m talking about.
“Pushing those thoughts away, she stood on her tiptoes to kiss him, but he turned his head and her kiss landed on his cheek.
‘My girl, partner at an accounting firm.’ He wiped the smudge she’d left on his cheek. ‘Really, Vicki? I don’t need lipstick everywhere, now I do I?’
His voice was harsher than she was used to, but she shrugged it off as the stress of him leaving again. She smiled, trying to ignore his admonishment. ‘I’d better get ready if we need to be at the airport in an hour.’ She turned away from him.
Will laughed and playfully slapped her on her rear as she spun around. ‘Are you sure you need to drop me off? I can have Alex call an Uber ...’
‘It’s okay. Don’t waste money on those things, they aren’t safe since they went driverless. Besides, I want every moment with you I can get.’ Vicki tossed her hair over her shoulder and skipped up to the master bathroom to finish getting dressed.
In the distance, she heard gunfire, but she just shrugged it off. It wasn’t abnormal to hear in suburbia anymore. Besides, she was about to leave all of this behind and start over. Somewhere safer, she hoped.”
Before I jump ahead, let me explain that Alex is kind of like Alexa/Google ... whatever you use and/or call it, except much more sophisticated and attached to glasses that basically serve as mini-computers. Talk about an advance in technology. Takes me back to I-Robot all over again.
Off track. This was one of those moments where I wanted to ask Vicki, “Hey, if you’re guy isn’t acting normal, does it cross your mind that there’s a reason for it?” Not that it’s explained at all in the book, but this is the first one of the series. Fact, for all we know, his actions are really normal and she just hasn’t paid it any mind until then.
Needless to say the story must go on. From here we meet the other major player in the game, Ambrose Palamo. Initially I felt bad for him. He’s a dark-skinned guy and from what I’d read, it would be easy to surmise that he got treated like shit fairly regularly. Honestly, the introduction of Ambrose really shines a light on how much the country has gone down hill over the next thirty to forty years. Kind of made me think we jumped back in time where the only way you were right was if you were white.
Really, you wouldn’t think things could get worse. Then BOOM! A bomb goes off in the airport, police are gunned down and Vicki and Ambrose are running for their lives.
This is also happens to be where the whole romance part comes in. Their relationship kind of develops like this:
I hate you. -> You’re an okay piece of shit. -> All right, you’re not a piece of shit. You’re kind of nice. -> Hey, you’re kind of good looking. -> Oh shit. I think I’m attracted to you. -> Fuck, I’m actually attracted to you. -> Man, I kind of like you. -> Actually, I do like you.
I would’ve laughed at this, except I wanted to slap the shit out of Vicki and Ambrose about 90% of the time. She whined like crazy and he was just a dick. Then somewhere in the middle of nowhere they managed to get their crap together and act like decent human beings. It was then that I started to change my mind about them. Somewhere around “You’re kind of nice.”
As you can imagine with the two of them on the run, there is a hell of a lot of suspense. Though I did have to wonder what was up with all of the yelling. Then again, maybe it was all the adrenaline rushing through their bodies that made them scream and holler a lot of the time like a bunch of banshees. Amongst the consistent page turning, I found a few of my favorite lines.
“The skinny white girl, Vicki, didn’t seem to have any skills besides panic and anxiety.” (I’ll admit it, I shared this sentiment with Ambrose. It’s a good thing we were both wrong.)
“He wrapped strong arms around her, closing her fists to her side, and threw her up on his shoulder.” (Get your mind out of the gutter. We haven’t hit the romance part yet and you certainly won’t find that in this book.)
“Was he has stupid as he looked? America was being invaded, and there was no one to stop them.” (Okay, I might have snickered a little at this. What? It was funny that Vicki thought for about 2.5 seconds that Ambrose was stupid.)
“The intense stare of his bright eyes was uncomfortable. Combined with the dark shade of his hair, it was such a stark contrast.” (I think this is where the shift was sort-of noticed.)
That’s all you get. If I give you anything else, then I’ll give the whole story away. And aside from a few bumps and bruises I collected along the way, it was a decent read. There were a couple of issues I had, but not enough to make me put it down. Though I give fair warning, it DOES end on a cliffhanger ... almost literally.
And that’s all I’m going to say about it.
Overall, I give this book 4 stars. I will definitely be picking up the second book.
Let me start by saying this is not your typical romance book. In fact, I got a very Hunger Games vibe from it right from the get go. Which throws me for a loop because the cover, although it is gorgeous, screams romance! And the story is definitely Dystopian with some romance thrown in, along with a bit of suspense and maybe a few moments of comedy. Oh, plus a couple of times where I absolutely just wanted to smack the ever loving shit out of the characters.
This is your one and ONLY reminder that SPOILERS are AHEAD. Read at your own risk.
The book opens with Vicki reminding Will of all the things he should have for his trip as they make their final preparations to leave for the airport. This all seems pretty normal, well sort of. The constant sound of gunfire is an everyday occurrence, at least in Vicki’s world. You know what isn’t normal, the way Will acts. Hmm, suspicion is on the rise.
Let me show you what I’m talking about.
“Pushing those thoughts away, she stood on her tiptoes to kiss him, but he turned his head and her kiss landed on his cheek.
‘My girl, partner at an accounting firm.’ He wiped the smudge she’d left on his cheek. ‘Really, Vicki? I don’t need lipstick everywhere, now I do I?’
His voice was harsher than she was used to, but she shrugged it off as the stress of him leaving again. She smiled, trying to ignore his admonishment. ‘I’d better get ready if we need to be at the airport in an hour.’ She turned away from him.
Will laughed and playfully slapped her on her rear as she spun around. ‘Are you sure you need to drop me off? I can have Alex call an Uber ...’
‘It’s okay. Don’t waste money on those things, they aren’t safe since they went driverless. Besides, I want every moment with you I can get.’ Vicki tossed her hair over her shoulder and skipped up to the master bathroom to finish getting dressed.
In the distance, she heard gunfire, but she just shrugged it off. It wasn’t abnormal to hear in suburbia anymore. Besides, she was about to leave all of this behind and start over. Somewhere safer, she hoped.”
Before I jump ahead, let me explain that Alex is kind of like Alexa/Google ... whatever you use and/or call it, except much more sophisticated and attached to glasses that basically serve as mini-computers. Talk about an advance in technology. Takes me back to I-Robot all over again.
Off track. This was one of those moments where I wanted to ask Vicki, “Hey, if you’re guy isn’t acting normal, does it cross your mind that there’s a reason for it?” Not that it’s explained at all in the book, but this is the first one of the series. Fact, for all we know, his actions are really normal and she just hasn’t paid it any mind until then.
Needless to say the story must go on. From here we meet the other major player in the game, Ambrose Palamo. Initially I felt bad for him. He’s a dark-skinned guy and from what I’d read, it would be easy to surmise that he got treated like shit fairly regularly. Honestly, the introduction of Ambrose really shines a light on how much the country has gone down hill over the next thirty to forty years. Kind of made me think we jumped back in time where the only way you were right was if you were white.
Really, you wouldn’t think things could get worse. Then BOOM! A bomb goes off in the airport, police are gunned down and Vicki and Ambrose are running for their lives.
This is also happens to be where the whole romance part comes in. Their relationship kind of develops like this:
I hate you. -> You’re an okay piece of shit. -> All right, you’re not a piece of shit. You’re kind of nice. -> Hey, you’re kind of good looking. -> Oh shit. I think I’m attracted to you. -> Fuck, I’m actually attracted to you. -> Man, I kind of like you. -> Actually, I do like you.
I would’ve laughed at this, except I wanted to slap the shit out of Vicki and Ambrose about 90% of the time. She whined like crazy and he was just a dick. Then somewhere in the middle of nowhere they managed to get their crap together and act like decent human beings. It was then that I started to change my mind about them. Somewhere around “You’re kind of nice.”
As you can imagine with the two of them on the run, there is a hell of a lot of suspense. Though I did have to wonder what was up with all of the yelling. Then again, maybe it was all the adrenaline rushing through their bodies that made them scream and holler a lot of the time like a bunch of banshees. Amongst the consistent page turning, I found a few of my favorite lines.
“The skinny white girl, Vicki, didn’t seem to have any skills besides panic and anxiety.” (I’ll admit it, I shared this sentiment with Ambrose. It’s a good thing we were both wrong.)
“He wrapped strong arms around her, closing her fists to her side, and threw her up on his shoulder.” (Get your mind out of the gutter. We haven’t hit the romance part yet and you certainly won’t find that in this book.)
“Was he has stupid as he looked? America was being invaded, and there was no one to stop them.” (Okay, I might have snickered a little at this. What? It was funny that Vicki thought for about 2.5 seconds that Ambrose was stupid.)
“The intense stare of his bright eyes was uncomfortable. Combined with the dark shade of his hair, it was such a stark contrast.” (I think this is where the shift was sort-of noticed.)
That’s all you get. If I give you anything else, then I’ll give the whole story away. And aside from a few bumps and bruises I collected along the way, it was a decent read. There were a couple of issues I had, but not enough to make me put it down. Though I give fair warning, it DOES end on a cliffhanger ... almost literally.
And that’s all I’m going to say about it.
Overall, I give this book 4 stars. I will definitely be picking up the second book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 8, 2018
This was my first book by this author and it wont be my last. I loved this story.
This immediately grabbed me from the start and I never wanted to put it down. It is very cleverly written and I adored the characters.
Vicki Morel has her dream life. A great new job, and she's engaged to the man of her dreams, Will Barton. Everything is perfect, except the world is in chaos.
Ambrose Palamo just wants out of the country. A few more months and he's outta here. But, his plans are blown to smithereens along with the airport terminal. He should just run. Save himself. But he can't turn his back on the survivor he found.
I can't wait to read Lavender Dreams, the next book in the series. I need to find out what happens to these amazing characters.
This immediately grabbed me from the start and I never wanted to put it down. It is very cleverly written and I adored the characters.
Vicki Morel has her dream life. A great new job, and she's engaged to the man of her dreams, Will Barton. Everything is perfect, except the world is in chaos.
Ambrose Palamo just wants out of the country. A few more months and he's outta here. But, his plans are blown to smithereens along with the airport terminal. He should just run. Save himself. But he can't turn his back on the survivor he found.
I can't wait to read Lavender Dreams, the next book in the series. I need to find out what happens to these amazing characters.
December 5, 2020
Book Review
Basic Details:
Book Title: Poppy Bloom
Subtitle: (Life After Us #1)
Author: Rebekah Dodson
Genre: Romance
Part of a series? Yes
Order in series: 1
Best read after earlier books in series? N/A
Available: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...
Overall score:
I scored this book 5/5
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Short Summary of the book:
Vicki and Will have it all. At least that is what she thinks. When she accompanies him to the airport when he’s due to leave for a job, a terrorist attack tears them apart. Vicki survives and escapes with the help of Ambrose. What follows is the search for Will. Has he survived? Can they save him?
What I liked about the book:
This book kept you on your toes continuously. We notice the attraction between Vicki and Ambrose and their fight against it.
What I didn’t like about the book:
I enjoyed the entire book.
My favourite bits in the book:
How Ambrose stuck with Vicki despite all the opposition.
My least favourite bits in the book:
I enjoyed the book in its entirety.
Any further books in the series? Any more planned by this author?
The author has written two more books in this series and I couldn’t stop myself from buying them to find out what happened next.
What books could this be compared to and why?
This series is not like any others I’ve read. It shows us not to judge people at first appearance.
Recommendation:
In summary, I would recommend this book for the following readers:
Children No
Young Adult Yes
Adult Yes
If you like romance and post-apocalyptic stories, this book may be the book for you.
Book Description by Author:
Vicki Morel believes she and Will, her gorgeous fiancé, have it all. They’re living the American dream. That is, until Portland, Oregon is leveled by a terrorist grade light weapon, and she loses Will at the airport.
Ambrose Palamo is an aviation student who wants one thing: to go home to Samoa. But when Portland is leveled, and he meets Vicki, he promises to help her find her fiancé instead. What he doesn't expect is the feelings that start to form for her as they search the dangerous Oregon woodlands.
Sometimes love isn't what you think it is. The poppies bloom reminds them of what they’ve lost, while giving them the courage to face a brand new future.
About the Author:
Rebekah Dodson is a prolific word weaver of romance, fantasy, and science fiction novels. Her works include the series Postcards from Paris, The Surrogate, The Curse of Lanval series, several stand alone novels, and her upcoming YA novel, Clock City. She has been writing her whole life, with her first published work of historical fiction with 4H Clubs of America at the age of 12, and poetry at the age of 16 with the National Poetry Society. With an extensive academic background including education, history, psychology and English, she currently works as a college professor by day and a writer by night.
Basic Details:
Book Title: Poppy Bloom
Subtitle: (Life After Us #1)
Author: Rebekah Dodson
Genre: Romance
Part of a series? Yes
Order in series: 1
Best read after earlier books in series? N/A
Available: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...
Overall score:
I scored this book 5/5
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Short Summary of the book:
Vicki and Will have it all. At least that is what she thinks. When she accompanies him to the airport when he’s due to leave for a job, a terrorist attack tears them apart. Vicki survives and escapes with the help of Ambrose. What follows is the search for Will. Has he survived? Can they save him?
What I liked about the book:
This book kept you on your toes continuously. We notice the attraction between Vicki and Ambrose and their fight against it.
What I didn’t like about the book:
I enjoyed the entire book.
My favourite bits in the book:
How Ambrose stuck with Vicki despite all the opposition.
My least favourite bits in the book:
I enjoyed the book in its entirety.
Any further books in the series? Any more planned by this author?
The author has written two more books in this series and I couldn’t stop myself from buying them to find out what happened next.
What books could this be compared to and why?
This series is not like any others I’ve read. It shows us not to judge people at first appearance.
Recommendation:
In summary, I would recommend this book for the following readers:
Children No
Young Adult Yes
Adult Yes
If you like romance and post-apocalyptic stories, this book may be the book for you.
Book Description by Author:
Vicki Morel believes she and Will, her gorgeous fiancé, have it all. They’re living the American dream. That is, until Portland, Oregon is leveled by a terrorist grade light weapon, and she loses Will at the airport.
Ambrose Palamo is an aviation student who wants one thing: to go home to Samoa. But when Portland is leveled, and he meets Vicki, he promises to help her find her fiancé instead. What he doesn't expect is the feelings that start to form for her as they search the dangerous Oregon woodlands.
Sometimes love isn't what you think it is. The poppies bloom reminds them of what they’ve lost, while giving them the courage to face a brand new future.
About the Author:
Rebekah Dodson is a prolific word weaver of romance, fantasy, and science fiction novels. Her works include the series Postcards from Paris, The Surrogate, The Curse of Lanval series, several stand alone novels, and her upcoming YA novel, Clock City. She has been writing her whole life, with her first published work of historical fiction with 4H Clubs of America at the age of 12, and poetry at the age of 16 with the National Poetry Society. With an extensive academic background including education, history, psychology and English, she currently works as a college professor by day and a writer by night.
October 5, 2018
"What are you doing?"
"Don't look at me like that."
"Like what?"
"I told you earlier, like you want to be kissed."
"Well, maybe I do."
This was my first read of Rebekah Dodson's and I can assure you it will not be the last. I mean, I need to find out what happens to these amazing characters!! I was drawn in from the first chapter, and I couldn't put it down - except of course for my stupid job, or sleep!
Vicki Morel has her dream life. A great new job, and she's engaged to the man of her dreams, Will Barton. Everything is perfect, except the world is in chaos. Martial law has been enforced in the USA, terror attacks are happening on domestic soil, racism is rampant as a result, and the government has collapsed. After a bombing at the airport, she is separated from Will, and rescued by a worker. Together they just try to find safety. But mystery is swirling around her as she realizes Will may have had secrets - ones that could bring danger to her door. And what of her savior? He could have left her on her own, but he continues to help her. Can she trust him? She'll have to. She won't come out of this alive without him.
Ambrose Palamo just wants out of the country. A few more months and he's outta here. But, his plans are blown to smitherines along with the airport terminal. He should just run. Save himself. But he can't turn his back on the survivor he found. Now, stranded in the wilderness of Oregon, the two will try to make it to safety, but it won't be easy. They're being hunted by the enemy. But, why? What is the connection between this woman and the recent happenings? He shouldn't trust her, but he has no choice. They'll need each other to get out of this alive.
This was so well written! The situation of the USA depicted in this story was very unsettling - not because I couldn't imagine it happening, but because I COULD imagine it happening. As I read, I started my planning on how I would survive, not IF it happened, but when. I was on the edge of my seat reading this one. What the characters went through to try to escape, hide, and elude the enemy was nerve-racking. I could picture everything clearly in my mind and I was runnning right along side Vicki and Ambrose. Even among the suspense and danger, we see a hint of romance. This is book 1 of a series, so expect a cliffhanger ending, which only left me needing book 2 ASAP!! I need to know what happens next!!
"Don't look at me like that."
"Like what?"
"I told you earlier, like you want to be kissed."
"Well, maybe I do."
This was my first read of Rebekah Dodson's and I can assure you it will not be the last. I mean, I need to find out what happens to these amazing characters!! I was drawn in from the first chapter, and I couldn't put it down - except of course for my stupid job, or sleep!
Vicki Morel has her dream life. A great new job, and she's engaged to the man of her dreams, Will Barton. Everything is perfect, except the world is in chaos. Martial law has been enforced in the USA, terror attacks are happening on domestic soil, racism is rampant as a result, and the government has collapsed. After a bombing at the airport, she is separated from Will, and rescued by a worker. Together they just try to find safety. But mystery is swirling around her as she realizes Will may have had secrets - ones that could bring danger to her door. And what of her savior? He could have left her on her own, but he continues to help her. Can she trust him? She'll have to. She won't come out of this alive without him.
Ambrose Palamo just wants out of the country. A few more months and he's outta here. But, his plans are blown to smitherines along with the airport terminal. He should just run. Save himself. But he can't turn his back on the survivor he found. Now, stranded in the wilderness of Oregon, the two will try to make it to safety, but it won't be easy. They're being hunted by the enemy. But, why? What is the connection between this woman and the recent happenings? He shouldn't trust her, but he has no choice. They'll need each other to get out of this alive.
This was so well written! The situation of the USA depicted in this story was very unsettling - not because I couldn't imagine it happening, but because I COULD imagine it happening. As I read, I started my planning on how I would survive, not IF it happened, but when. I was on the edge of my seat reading this one. What the characters went through to try to escape, hide, and elude the enemy was nerve-racking. I could picture everything clearly in my mind and I was runnning right along side Vicki and Ambrose. Even among the suspense and danger, we see a hint of romance. This is book 1 of a series, so expect a cliffhanger ending, which only left me needing book 2 ASAP!! I need to know what happens next!!
January 24, 2022
This book took an interesting take on some social issues we're dealing with today. Even though this is definitely an extreme of what is going on in the real world right now it was definitely believable. There's a lot of discussions about racism, and different opinions. Some definite ignorance on the part of the main female character, but in the end it's a good discussion on social issues and the general feelings surrounding them.
Vicki was irritating in the beginning. From the beginning she talks about how she can read certain emotions from those around her. She discusses her opinions and her lack of interest in getting involved in the social issues. And she makes a lot of not so well informed comments about things. She comes off a little bit annoying at times, like she's not realizing that the world is still spinning and she needs to focus. Around 60% into the book she starts to take a look around and make notice of things, which was nice to see.
Ambrose is an ideal main character. He's a little bit grumpy a little hard to read but overall he's definitely someone you want on your side. He's taken an ignore and persevere stance on the world around him and even though it doesn't work every time he's able to sort of sneak through the cracks for the most part. He's loyal and even when it seems like he's going to do something that could be taken as mean spirited, he redeems himself.
Their relationship didn't make any sense to me at first. Like it's clear that they are sort of forced together and that the two of them don't really match; but there's also a lot of animosity. Like Ambrose can't believe he's stuck with her and she can't believe the words coming from his mouth. But it was nice to see how they were able to work around each other.
Overall, didn't give it five stars for some of my issues with the female main character and her seemingly ignorant reactions to the way things were happening around her. But thought that the world was believable, the reactions from the side characters definitely didn't detract from the story and the characters wound up having hidden depths that aren't exactly obvious from the beginning.
Would recommend if apocalyptical social commentary is definitely up your alley. Be prepared for comments that might make you feel a little bit uncomfortable and quite a lot of conversations about immigrants versus Americans.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Vicki was irritating in the beginning. From the beginning she talks about how she can read certain emotions from those around her. She discusses her opinions and her lack of interest in getting involved in the social issues. And she makes a lot of not so well informed comments about things. She comes off a little bit annoying at times, like she's not realizing that the world is still spinning and she needs to focus. Around 60% into the book she starts to take a look around and make notice of things, which was nice to see.
Ambrose is an ideal main character. He's a little bit grumpy a little hard to read but overall he's definitely someone you want on your side. He's taken an ignore and persevere stance on the world around him and even though it doesn't work every time he's able to sort of sneak through the cracks for the most part. He's loyal and even when it seems like he's going to do something that could be taken as mean spirited, he redeems himself.
Their relationship didn't make any sense to me at first. Like it's clear that they are sort of forced together and that the two of them don't really match; but there's also a lot of animosity. Like Ambrose can't believe he's stuck with her and she can't believe the words coming from his mouth. But it was nice to see how they were able to work around each other.
Overall, didn't give it five stars for some of my issues with the female main character and her seemingly ignorant reactions to the way things were happening around her. But thought that the world was believable, the reactions from the side characters definitely didn't detract from the story and the characters wound up having hidden depths that aren't exactly obvious from the beginning.
Would recommend if apocalyptical social commentary is definitely up your alley. Be prepared for comments that might make you feel a little bit uncomfortable and quite a lot of conversations about immigrants versus Americans.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 9, 2018
Well I don't usually read dystopian but I read Abby's Promise and loved it so had to read this one and I am SOOO glad I did. WOW what a book I couldn't turn the pages fast enough and devoured it in a day.
The book is set way into the future with the electronic assistants we are currently welcoming into our lives take on a life of their own with Alex who does everything including make the coffee and all through some very high tech spectacles.
Vicky is saying goodbye to her Fiancé, Will when all hell breaks loose in the airport. She escapes with the help of Ambrose and they join several others as they try to work out what has happened and what they are going to do next.
It appears there has been a coordinated attack on America leaving devastation in its wake and a small group of people running for their lives. As the group diminishes further Vicki and Ambrose escape on foot but where are they going to escape to?
This is a fairly short book and a fast read but Rebekah has made a brilliant job of building characters that we get to know well and quickly while at the same time making them realistic.
An excellent read and I now really need the next book
5 stars from me
The book is set way into the future with the electronic assistants we are currently welcoming into our lives take on a life of their own with Alex who does everything including make the coffee and all through some very high tech spectacles.
Vicky is saying goodbye to her Fiancé, Will when all hell breaks loose in the airport. She escapes with the help of Ambrose and they join several others as they try to work out what has happened and what they are going to do next.
It appears there has been a coordinated attack on America leaving devastation in its wake and a small group of people running for their lives. As the group diminishes further Vicki and Ambrose escape on foot but where are they going to escape to?
This is a fairly short book and a fast read but Rebekah has made a brilliant job of building characters that we get to know well and quickly while at the same time making them realistic.
An excellent read and I now really need the next book
5 stars from me
July 28, 2025
The latest SYKD purchase, this one was a bit different for me, more apocalyptic but with a modern/futuristic take.
Based in the future, the writing was really captivating and I dove into it. to the point where as soon as I finished book one I went straight into book two. They are both under 200 pages, so that also helped.
The Life After Us series, has twists upon twists and when you thought you knew what was coming, you really didn't.
I wasn't sure if this book was for me initially, I'm not one for futuristic books, but also the political narrative and the story plot involving racism, i was a bit hmm do i wanna read this or not.
But I'm kinda glad i did, it gave The survival dependence of The day after tomorrow movie, but also on a more SciFi level.
Vicki is the definition of worst person to go through this kinda thing with initially, god she was annoying lol but you learn to love her, Ambrose is kinda Anti tech, which works out in his favour when everything goes down.
The two hate each other but in Book two maybe hate a little bit less..... then the fiancé appears and bang.... messy.
For a quick SciFi read defo recommend. I'll be going into Book 3 soon!!
Based in the future, the writing was really captivating and I dove into it. to the point where as soon as I finished book one I went straight into book two. They are both under 200 pages, so that also helped.
The Life After Us series, has twists upon twists and when you thought you knew what was coming, you really didn't.
I wasn't sure if this book was for me initially, I'm not one for futuristic books, but also the political narrative and the story plot involving racism, i was a bit hmm do i wanna read this or not.
But I'm kinda glad i did, it gave The survival dependence of The day after tomorrow movie, but also on a more SciFi level.
Vicki is the definition of worst person to go through this kinda thing with initially, god she was annoying lol but you learn to love her, Ambrose is kinda Anti tech, which works out in his favour when everything goes down.
The two hate each other but in Book two maybe hate a little bit less..... then the fiancé appears and bang.... messy.
For a quick SciFi read defo recommend. I'll be going into Book 3 soon!!
October 4, 2018
One of my favourite categories to read is Dystopia so when I was asked about this book I thought it sounded really good and one I could get into really easily. I was not disappointed.
I have previously read Abby's Promise by Rebekah so thought I knew the kind of book she writes, but this one is so different from Abby's Promise that I loved it even more. This book is definitely more my thing than Abby's Promise as it is Dystopia.
The book starts off with a bang when Vicki is stuck at Portland when the city is destroyed by a terrorist bomb. From there we also meet Ambrose who is trying to get home, and the two of them try and help each other.
I really liked the way the two main characters interacted with each other and worked as a team to try and find Vicki's Fiance.
It is a brilliant book, which kept me hooked and I can't wait to read book 2 when it is published.
I have previously read Abby's Promise by Rebekah so thought I knew the kind of book she writes, but this one is so different from Abby's Promise that I loved it even more. This book is definitely more my thing than Abby's Promise as it is Dystopia.
The book starts off with a bang when Vicki is stuck at Portland when the city is destroyed by a terrorist bomb. From there we also meet Ambrose who is trying to get home, and the two of them try and help each other.
I really liked the way the two main characters interacted with each other and worked as a team to try and find Vicki's Fiance.
It is a brilliant book, which kept me hooked and I can't wait to read book 2 when it is published.
October 1, 2025
Trigger warning this book is full of racist takes (part of the plot) so if you are part of a minority (POCOC especially) please be ware of it and proceed with caution you could be triggered or feal uncomfortable.
This book its a really possible science fiction what if of the future where the only thing that still is not possible (the guns) are the thing that you would mind the least.
The story is interesting even if there is a cliffhanger a lot of the things show that there would be a next book so be ware of that too.
If you want a fast reading with a plot that feels not as a plot but a possibility this book probably would be of you interest.
*There are a lot of gramatical mistakes in this book so also consider that.
This book its a really possible science fiction what if of the future where the only thing that still is not possible (the guns) are the thing that you would mind the least.
The story is interesting even if there is a cliffhanger a lot of the things show that there would be a next book so be ware of that too.
If you want a fast reading with a plot that feels not as a plot but a possibility this book probably would be of you interest.
*There are a lot of gramatical mistakes in this book so also consider that.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 2, 2018
WOW Rebekah Dodson.... You have captivated me with this story Poppy bloom. This is my first book by Rebekah and it won't be my last. This book has it all, with a futuristic America set in 2035, with robotic/ computerised machines and technology in weapons. America is under attack by The World without Americans and the country has had Martial Law enstated. After being separated by her Fiancé Will at the airport while it's under attack, Vicki meets Ambrose a employee of the airport, that helps her escape from the terror. Together Ambrose and Vicki run to try and find there freedom, and form a formidable bond. I can't wait for the next in this series to see what happens.
October 14, 2018
Wow.... This book blew me away! It was an incredibly believable future and it had me hooked from the beginning! I love how it wove the recent past and current times into the story! This is a book that I hope a movie producer sees and loves! This would make for an amazing big screen movie or a tv series! Sorry, I’m. It one for writing a recap into my review. I only right my feelings a out the books I read. If you want a recap, the book blurb is where you’ll find it. I HIGHLY recommend reading this book and I can’t wait until the next!!
March 21, 2019
Poppy is a gripping dystopian story and I was captivated and a bit freaked out by it because I live about three hours from Portland, Oregon. I also have a sister and niece who live in Portland, so needless to say this felt a bit too real to me. Great writing, an amazing storyline and believable characters made me feel like I was right there in the middle of the story. I am heading off to read book two in the Life After Us series to find out what happens next. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book.
September 25, 2025
Life After Us - Book 1
Poppy Bloom is the first book of the Life After Us series. I first read this book several years ago and I picked it up again to reread the series. The series is about Vicki Morel and Ambrose Palamo, in a sort of apocalyptic situation in and around Portland, Oregon. Vicki and Ambrose's paths would never have crossed except in extraordinary circumstances, which is what they find themselves in. The story is a bit hard to describe but overall this book makes for an interesting start to an ongoing story.
Poppy Bloom is the first book of the Life After Us series. I first read this book several years ago and I picked it up again to reread the series. The series is about Vicki Morel and Ambrose Palamo, in a sort of apocalyptic situation in and around Portland, Oregon. Vicki and Ambrose's paths would never have crossed except in extraordinary circumstances, which is what they find themselves in. The story is a bit hard to describe but overall this book makes for an interesting start to an ongoing story.
September 29, 2025
Poppy Bloom is book 1 in the Life After Us series and is the action packed, mystery to solve story of Ambrose and Vicki as they navigate the chaos and destruction that has unraveled and try to stay alive. As they work together, they're drawn to one another, but they need to figure out where to go and what is happening before they can explore anything further. This does end on a cliffhanger, so be ready to keep reading.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 1, 2018
On my to-read list in my Kindle, I finally started reading the other night. I have never read anything by this author but now I can hardly wait for book two to arrive on December 4th. This was a fast paced, page turning, OMG, what in the world is going to happen next book! The events of the future that occur in this story is nothing but believable. The characters are truly well developed. I highly recommend this book to anyone that enjoys a fast-paced, exciting thriller. Great Job R. Dodson.
March 22, 2019
This is the 1st book I've read written Rebekah Dodson; she has done a great job at writing a good book; I will definitely be reading more of her books.
The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.
I loved the chemistry between the characters.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.
I loved the chemistry between the characters.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
September 18, 2025
The first story in the Life After Us, an engrossing series that makes you want each to read each story as soon as you can. Vicki Morel and Will are engaged when Portland, Oregon is leveled by a terrorist grade light weapon, and she loses Will at the airport. Ambrose Palamo comes into her life and together they will search for Will. The story grabbed my interestand kept me turning pages. It does end on a carry-over to the next book.
October 17, 2018
This story was the first that I have read by Rebekah, but I have so many of her books in my library that I am totally going back to read. Her words just draw you in and paint the clear picture. Totally loved this love story and it is definitely a must read, that kept me on the edge of my seat. Eeekk!!!
March 21, 2019
I am not sure that I even know where to begin writing a review for this because it is truly an awesome experience. I loved everything about it - the characters, the plot, the emotion, the writing, and the ability that the author had to tell me a story that had me wanting this book to go on and on.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 21, 2019
She has everything including a great fiance until one awful day when there is a bomb attack. Now he is missing and she wants to find him. She will get help from another man. Will they find him? What will happen between them while searching? See how it will go
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 7, 2019
This series starts out with a bang. Totally unexpected, the action takes off and the reader is in for a twisted ride with a smart, strong-willed man and an annoying young woman. Circumstances they face together change the dynamics of their relationship and the story gets even more intriguing and interesting. Good start.
October 13, 2024
The storyline kept me interested and the main characters were well developed. I only wish it wasn't a cliff-hanger.
There were some minor audio issues throughout. A portion of chapter 9 was very difficult to listen to as there were overlapping audio tracks running at the same time.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and I have voluntarily left this review.
There were some minor audio issues throughout. A portion of chapter 9 was very difficult to listen to as there were overlapping audio tracks running at the same time.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and I have voluntarily left this review.
September 22, 2025
Allow a day for this dark, fast-paced, action-packed, science-fiction, dystopian, adventure quest thriller beginning in Portland, Oregon, in early March 2035, featuring betrayal, militaries, rescue, romance, twins, violence, and war. 4 1/2*.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 15, 2025
This is book one in the series. This is an adventurous story that starts out as Vicki thinking life is perfect. Then disasters happen as their home is invaded and her fiancee is gone and the world turns upside down.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 11, 2018
This book isn’t my usual type of read, but I liked it. It flowed very smooth and had a solid storyline. The characters were believable and stayed true to form. I will definitely read the next book in this series.
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