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Return from Darkness: (A Post-Apocalyptic Journey)

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The BookFest first place award for best Apocalyptic and Post-Apocalyptic Science Fiction books - 2022The American Writing Awards first place award for best Post-Apocalyptic Novella - 2021Nuclear Armageddon left the planet in ashy ruins. When a man leaves the safety of the underground, will he survive the peril that awaits him above?Seventeen-year-old Loreto Riker has never known life outside a bunker. After an atomic war thrusts the world into an eternal winter, the descendant of courageous survivors accepts an exploratory mission to search for others on the ravaged surface. But the treacherous task quickly turns deadly when he’s attacked by radioactively deformed flesh-eaters.Desperately evading the mutant cannibals, Loreto pairs up with a sword-wielding woman on the run from the foul creatures. But when he makes a shocking discovery, he fears a much greater threat looms amongst the corrupted remnants of the apocalypse…Can Loreto defend the last shred of humanity from a dark new enemy?Return from Darkness is the page-turning first book in the Earth HasFallen post-apocalyptic science fiction series. If you like fearless heroes, detailed landscapes, and hauntingly speculative stories, then you’ll love Peter Servidio’s thrilling tale.Buy Return from Darkness to plunge into the unknown today!

112 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 4, 2021

24 people are currently reading
17 people want to read

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Peter Servidio

83 books11 followers

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5 stars
27 (49%)
4 stars
11 (20%)
3 stars
9 (16%)
2 stars
6 (10%)
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2 (3%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
Profile Image for Marcelle Valentine.
Author 27 books35 followers
March 12, 2022
Survive

After the second world war and the fall of most of humanity, a small number of people hide within the mines in Utah. Believing they may be the last humans they wait, hoping they will be able to emerge from the darkness one day. A handful of specially trained individuals become the topsiders sent up to investigate what the world has to offer. Return from Darkness is a well-written YA post-apocalyptic story.
Profile Image for Debbie Hyde.
Author 31 books93 followers
April 28, 2022
interesting story

An interesting story about what happens after a Nuclear war. It’s the first story I’ve read like this. I haven’t seen a lot of stories I though boys would like. They should like this one.
Profile Image for Nikki Lewen.
Author 3 books16 followers
March 6, 2022
A good, quick read.

This is a short book that reads quickly! The premise is life and survival after nuclear devastation. I’m a fan of post-apocalyptic books and would recommend this for young, teen readers just venturing into the genre. It’s solid 3.5 stars that was easy to round up!

A few times, I wanted more description and a bit more intensity and depth to the scenes. Some of the dialogue can also seem a bit flat. As it’s the 1st book of a series, I think readers will want to continue the story!
Profile Image for K.C. Bellinger.
Author 12 books75 followers
March 8, 2022
I couldn't stop reading this post-apocalyptic story. It has all the elements of a gripping storyline, engaging characters, and entertaining dialogue. It leaves you on a cliffhanger, so I am thankful book two is available to read now!
Profile Image for D.L. Fletcher.
Author 4 books48 followers
November 30, 2021
It had taken less than two weeks for mankind to knock out the vast majority of human life and to blot out the sun with nuclear fallout. Now, nearly 60 years later the world is still in the grips of perpetual nuclear winter.

Many children born since WWIII are either stillborn, die shortly after, or have major defects. Loreto is one of the fortunate.

Born in the underground deep inside the Emery Mine Loreto lives with his community of 3000 people. Aside from shelter from the elements above, the only thing the mine has to offer is a fresh spring providing plenty of drinking water. This means that scavenging for food and supplies is a necessity. In order to do that, it means going to the surface.

Now at an age to be provided a job Loreto is appointed to be a Topsider. His job - scavenge for what he can and take notes in regards to if the surface is becoming habitable. Living deep underground has its own health risks but going to the surface is considered a death sentence, but someone has to do it. For Loreto, this was an honor.

I am not going to go into any more detail on this Novella in an effort to not provide spoilers. What I will say is that I really enjoyed this story. This is not a story that I normally read so I can't say if it is unique as I really have nothing to compare it to in the world of books. It has its unique elements if I were to compare it to film.

I found the story frightening as I listened to it for it really wasn't far off the mark of what could actually be if we were to play our cards wrong. Not with the Ash Walkers, but... Well, maybe if there is nothing left there could be people that resemble them. Ah...you need to read it to learn who they are.

I think Peter Servido did a fantastic job describing the doom and gloom of the new world Loreto was born into. The characters were well thought out and intriguing. It made me think of Mad Max Beyond Thunder Dome. I loved the way the main character - Loreto - told the story. In fact, I would have liked him to continue telling me what happened all the way through rather than move into dialogue.

The narration: This was narrated by Grayson Pickar. I LOVED his voice. I thought it was spot on for this story. I loved the tone he set right from the moment he spoke his first word. In fact, I think that is why I wanted the book to continue with him simply telling me what happened. His voice and his tone are what drew me in making me want to hear it through. He could have simply explained the whole story to me without ever acting out a character and I would have loved it.

That said, I have a few issues with this audiobook. In a number of cases, Grayson's pronunciation was slurred, making some words difficult to understand what exactly he said. In a number of cases, he pronounced words incorrectly. In one instance, he repeated a sentence, and in another, he stumbled, paused, and started again. There were sentences that he cut off mid-word or the word entirely.
To sum it up it was poorly edited.

For the story: I give it a 4/5. It made me think, and I could visualize. It did what it should do. For anyone into post-war, post-apocalyptic books this is one to check out.

The Narration: I have no choice but to give it a 3/5.

This puts the book in its audiobook format at a 3.5/5 for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Author 4 books17 followers
April 9, 2022
Good first book in the series

Great first book, setting the theme and the tone with aplomb. There is a well thought out background. The characters are interesting, and it was a surprisingly emotional ending. Bring on book 2!
Profile Image for Peter Okonkwo.
Author 5 books55 followers
Read
August 28, 2021
Peter Servidio's Earth Has Fallen: Return From Darkness is an absorbing story of a risky journey that leaves me in a state of excitement until I finish indulging my relatable emotions in it.
This book detailed the ambitious yet adventurous life of the protagonist, Loreto who was on the mandate to get a prototype to his community that would save the world.
The journey began like a child's play, Loreto was insistent to embark on the journey despite his mother's disapproval. I think it's a matter of his fate, as he was the only person that eventually survived the journey out of the four Topsiders selected to set out on it. I admire his bravery, determination, and free will in protecting the lives of others over his own.
This novel reads like an apocalyptic movie, I love the scenario and the author's description of the event that follows the Ash Walkers. The part I find most captivating is the point at the time where Jose, Loreto, Atilla, and Catalina were to attack 20 Ash Walkers. It is scary, and saddening that Jose had to die at this point.
Their afterward arrival at Elysian(Atilla Father's House), Micheal's offer of Life and Death was an enthralling story to tell.
The intrusion of Loreto into the Old Root Cellar would ultimately lead to his discovery of a hidden truth which would lead to another fateful journey that would affect their fate coupled with the death of innocent Camilla inside the pigsty. I find this part achingly absorbing, action-packed, extremely emotional, and gruesomely interesting. The novel's plot and characterization are wonderful, and it depicts something that I would love to learn from even as a soon-to-be novelist.
Following Camilla's death in the hand of the heartless Michael, Loreto had no choice but to escape overnight to protect himself from death. I was shocked by Atilla's decision at overseeing Loreto's journey. The whole story swift again to the point where Atilla was abruptly killed by the Ash Walker on their way back home. I almost cried reading through this section and it has a plot twist that is capable of leaving one in a state of empathy.
I shall resist revealing further to the sort of mind-blowing novel that Peter Servidio has written, and I'm sure that every literature enthusiasts would find this book absolutely amazing.
I can't wait to read the next book of this series. I'm eager to know how this impressive story ends and what would eventually become of Loreto's fate, and that of his community.
Profile Image for G.L. Cramb.
10 reviews6 followers
December 7, 2021
Post Apocalyptic Fun

Author Servidio gives a post apocalyptic world that as a reader one can readily believe. That's the most important step in this type of novel. That alone deserves high marks.

He starts out with a totally plausible premise to a world as we know it ending war. Then he jumps six decades into the future into a world void of sunlight and subject to a literal nuclear winter.

Humanity is nearly wiped from the earth and living has become just survival deep within the earth caverns and mines for one small community. His story takes off from there. His characters are compelling and realistic and I was kept wanting to read on. Everyday people become the heroes and heroines.

I gave the book a book 4⭐, though it was a round down from a 4.2 or so. I wish it was told in present tense pov to give it more urgency in the moment of many scenes. Some of the dialogue was lacking a realistic touch. A little more worldbuilding 'show' was also something I was craving. That being said, I'm looking forward to reading book 2 and beyond, it captured my imagination that much. I also know from experience that a first novel is just a launching pad for authors and I fully expect great things to come in the series.

I'm following Petrr Servidio
Profile Image for Debra Schwitzer.
130 reviews1 follower
January 25, 2022
After a worldwide nuclear war, mankind still exists

What I liked about this book was the idea that mankind could still exist and almost thrive after billions died. It starts with one large collection of people living underground in a deep and very large system of caverns. They are able to grow root vegetables and mushrooms to sustain them and they have an uncontaminated lake that provides water to drink. There are two other groups encountered in this book, one group gnarly with radiation problems and the other similar yet more advanced than the first group.
What I didn't like was the inconsistencies with this being in any way realistic. There were people living that were alive during the war that destroyed everything, yet the air was not really contaminated, only the rain and water was. There is more but I don't want to dwell on the bad because despite that, the story was still interesting enough to read to the end.
I won't even mention the commas!
Profile Image for Deb.
49 reviews
January 28, 2022
What I liked about this book was the idea that mankind could still exist and almost thrive after billions died. It starts with one large collection of people living underground in a deep and very large system of caverns. They are able to grow root vegetables and mushrooms to sustain them and they have an uncontaminated lake that provides water to drink. There are two other groups encountered in this book, one group gnarly with radiation problems and the other similar yet more advanced than the first group.
What I didn't like was the inconsistencies with this being in any way realistic. There were people living that were alive during the war that destroyed everything, yet the air was not really contaminated, only the rain and water was. There is more but I don't want to dwell on the bad because despite that, the story was still interesting enough to read to the end.
Profile Image for Vicky Peplow.
Author 68 books63 followers
December 16, 2021
A great read!

I don't usually read post-apocalyptic books but I'm glad I got to read this one. The storyline and characters have been well thought out and I look forward in getting to know the characters more in the next book.
860 reviews22 followers
December 19, 2021
A free book from Voracious Readers thank you

Nuclear wars, a totally devastated atmosphere, life lived underground....will it ever be any different? Follow the adventures of Loreto.
A great read made more believable by today's situation.

If you are a fan of this genre this is for you
2,344 reviews27 followers
December 9, 2021
I have received an ARC free from VRO and this is my voluntary honest review.
Scary!
Gripping!
Thought provoking!
Exciting read!
Quick and to the point!
Frightening!
Wow! I wanted more!
Profile Image for Stephanie Fuller.
79 reviews3 followers
December 21, 2021
Loved the book
Great characters
Flows nicely
Really good story
Perhaps looking into our own future apocalypse
Profile Image for Rich Wyatt.
28 reviews
May 21, 2023
Keeps you Reading

"Return from Darkness" by Peter Servidio is a thrilling and captivating read that lives up to its intriguing premise of a fallen Earth. This adventurous tale takes readers on a journey that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. The author skillfully balances a sense of believability with elements of fantasy, creating a world that feels real yet captivatingly mysterious.

This book quickly picks up pace and grabs hold of the reader's attention. The inclusion of a lengthy backstory adds depth to the dark world presented, and personally, I found it to be a compelling aspect that kept me engaged throughout. For those who prefer a faster-paced narrative, I would encourage them to stick with it, as the investment in the backstory ultimately pays off in a highly satisfying manner. "Return from Darkness" is a must-read for fans of adventure and dystopian fiction, offering an immersive experience that will leave readers eagerly anticipating what comes next.
Profile Image for Julie Powell.
Author 72 books324 followers
October 26, 2022
I was given a review copy of this story about a post-apocalyptic world and the devastating effects of WW3.

The setting was disturbing because we all realise how awful the world would be after bombs, radiation and destruction of the world by the actions of those in power. Those left would be scarred for generations in one way or another and Earth's wounds deep and perhaps impossible to recuperate.

I liked the story's tone and how the characters survived in the hope things may improve - from having to live underground to eventually, if ever, living on the land again.

The writing style was suitable for the genre, although there were some grammatical errors and, I think, the story needed more details, thoughts, and feelings rather than just 'telling'.

Overall, it was a good, if scary, insight into what the future may hold for humankind and Earth.

Worth a look.
Profile Image for Shannon.
267 reviews3 followers
November 18, 2023
I don’t know what group of people this was meant for but clearly not me. A fairly basic end of the world story, I was initially intrigued by the premise and it fell way flat.

Was it just the copy I received that wasn’t properly edited? Or is that how the book was published? The intro used the word “initial” about 10 times in two pages (ok I counted-8 times in 6 pages. But still). There were multiple spelling errors—the kind that makes me flinch— and the storyline itself was pretty simplistic.

Maybe it’s meant for younger audiences? Unfortunately, a miss from me and not as original as I hoped.

Also, in a post apocalyptic world, I found flesh eating ravenous pigs to be the hardest (and weirdest) thing to believe.
Profile Image for Heather.
192 reviews9 followers
January 13, 2024
I received an ARC for an honest review.

I LOVED the idea for the story. Nuclear apocalypse, mutation, struggle for survival. The storyline was also good.

But... it needs a lot of editing and I think it would be so good with some fleshing out. Character names change a few times and the grammar needs adjusting, spelling errors. It felt like I was reading a draft.

I would enjoy it more if the story was longer to accommodate for world building and a description of character emotions. I could not connect to any of the characters, but it has SO much potential. The pig scene with Catalina or Camille (it changed more than a few times) could have been really heartbreaking.

Overall I would consider reading the next though. I would like to know where it goes.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for S.S. Saywack.
Author 9 books36 followers
May 21, 2022
A short, easy to read, a post-apocalyptic drama set some 60(perhaps) years in the future and after World War III has devastated the earth. People survive in communities underground, safe from the radiation of the nuclear weapons used and barely surviving. A more primaeval society has emerged, one of mistrust and danger. Details are sketchy throughout the novelette as we follow Lorento and Atilla on various journeys. I, personally, wanted to know more as this is a subject to make you think, and so, I found the book too short. However, it nevertheless paints a vivid picture. There are more novels in the series to follow, so it will be interesting to see how the story develops.
Profile Image for Donna Heard.
130 reviews3 followers
August 10, 2022
This is such a great story filled with likeable characters, action, suspense, and drama. If you like great writing and zombies you should read this book. The story is action packed and because the writing flows you may lose track of time in the real world so make sure you have set aside some time to be engaged. I have read similar books about the fall of mankind and their struggle to survive and rebuild and while they were very good stories this one has a little surprise to it that I didn't see coming.
Profile Image for C.G. Jaquish.
Author 9 books23 followers
May 14, 2022
Fascinating!

A great dystopia novel that will have you gripped till the very end. Fun, short story, definitely worth a read. Right up my alley with the graphic violence and no sugar-coating, but I really wish it was filled in a bit more. I'm hoping the rest of the series fills in the blanks. It reads a bit like a YA book, but definitely meant for mature audiences, so it's easy reading and fun to burn through.
52 reviews
May 23, 2022
A real page-turner

Return from Darkness is a great post-apocalyptic tale. The struggles, ingenuity, and angst of the main character in believable and well thought out. I’m not generally into cliffhangers, but it was still a very well-rounded story and I highly recommend this novel. I am looking forward to the next installment.
Profile Image for Arlene Lomazoff-Marron.
Author 7 books64 followers
June 15, 2022
Thought Provoking!

Although this isn't my usual genre, I read this book on the advice of a friend. I enjoyed it more than I expected. The author has crafted a good tale, which was suspenseful and believable. Considering the current state of the country and the world, the beginning of the book set the stage well for the remainder of the story. Nicely done!
63 reviews3 followers
July 16, 2023
I liked the premise of striking out in a post-apocalyptic world to help out other survivors, and I really wanted to like this Young Adult novella more, but I felt it lacked any real character or story development. I hope that it will one day be rewritten as a full novel that really fills in the gaps!
Profile Image for Heather Adams.
Author 22 books106 followers
May 14, 2022
apocalypse!

I’m a suck for apocalypse movies and books! This book is super charged and exciting. I also love that it was a short read as I have less time for reading than I wish. Well done!
Profile Image for Barbara Gilbert.
Author 6 books25 followers
July 27, 2022
A great new end of world story

I enjoyed reading this short story about the survival of mankind after an all out nuclear war. The author does an excellent job drawing the reader in. Can't wait to read book two.
35 reviews1 follower
May 7, 2024
This quick-read novella needs some polishing, but is a fun start to the series. There are plenty of plot holes and editing issues to get lost in, but if you ignore all that then the story will draw you in. I would love to read a more finished version of this, but am currently left wanting.
6 reviews
January 24, 2024
Could not put it down!

"Return from Darkness: A Post-Apocalyptic Journey (Earth has Fallen Book 1)" by Peter Servidio is a riveting tale that transports readers into a breathtakingly vivid post-apocalyptic world. The author's skillful storytelling weaves an intricate narrative, rich with compelling characters and a meticulously detailed setting. Looking forward to reading book 2.
215 reviews4 followers
January 24, 2024
Great story!
Read it in two days! I was hooked from the beginning and already looking to buy the rest of the series! Loved this book!
Profile Image for Amy Webster-Bo.
1,996 reviews12 followers
March 20, 2024
i liked the story and the characters and all, it was a very good 1st book
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