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As We Know It #2
Survival
Forty-eight hours after the Upheaval, reality is beginning to set in at the Whitaker Estate. The world, As We Know It, has ended.Dillon Mitchell and her friends are left to survive, after discovering most of the population, at least in the United States, has mysteriously died.While they struggle to come to terms with their devastating losses, they are faced with the challenge of creating a new society, which is threatened by the divergent factions that may tear the community apart from the inside.Even if the group can unite, external forces are gathering that could destroy their fragile existence.Meanwhile, Dillon’s budding relationship with the elusive Skylar Lange faces obstacles, when Skylar’s hidden past is revealed.
326 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 26, 2021
10 people are currently reading
73 people want to read
About the author
Rita Potter
19 books142 followersRita Potter has spent most of her life trying to figure out what makes people tick. To that end, she holds a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work and an MA in Sociology. Her favorite pastime is crawling around inside peoples’ brains. Her loved ones are grateful that she now has characters whose minds she can explore, so maybe she’ll stay out of theirs.
Rita’s writing reflects her belief that in some way we are all damaged and must conquer our demons in order to create a fulfilling life. Being an eternal optimist, she maintains that the human spirit is remarkably resilient and can overcome even the most challenging obstacles. That optimism is the wellspring of her life goal- to provide encouragement and support to help people thrive.
In her spare time, she enjoys the outdoors. She is especially drawn to the water, which is ironic since she lives in the middle of a corn field. Her first love has always been reading, which has spurred her writing. She rides a Harley Davidson and has an unnatural obsession with fantasy football. More than anything she detests small talk, but can ramble on for hours given a topic that interests her.
She lives in a small town in Illinois with her wife, Terra, and their cat, Chumley, who actually runs the household.
Rita is a member of American Mensa and the Golden Crown Literary Society. She is currently a student of the GCLS Writing Academy 2021.
Rita’s writing reflects her belief that in some way we are all damaged and must conquer our demons in order to create a fulfilling life. Being an eternal optimist, she maintains that the human spirit is remarkably resilient and can overcome even the most challenging obstacles. That optimism is the wellspring of her life goal- to provide encouragement and support to help people thrive.
In her spare time, she enjoys the outdoors. She is especially drawn to the water, which is ironic since she lives in the middle of a corn field. Her first love has always been reading, which has spurred her writing. She rides a Harley Davidson and has an unnatural obsession with fantasy football. More than anything she detests small talk, but can ramble on for hours given a topic that interests her.
She lives in a small town in Illinois with her wife, Terra, and their cat, Chumley, who actually runs the household.
Rita is a member of American Mensa and the Golden Crown Literary Society. She is currently a student of the GCLS Writing Academy 2021.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
September 30, 2022
A good sequel to Upheaval: Book One - As we know it.
Still a bit of melodrama in the interpersonal relationships, but that's to be expected. I got a little sick of the 'everybody loves Dillon' trope. But I enjoyed it more than I was irked.
Looking forward to the next installment.
Still a bit of melodrama in the interpersonal relationships, but that's to be expected. I got a little sick of the 'everybody loves Dillon' trope. But I enjoyed it more than I was irked.
Looking forward to the next installment.
November 18, 2021
Ahhh, the author is getting too good at these cliffhangers, lol! Damn!
I received an ARC of the book in exchange for a review. I loved book 1 and was very excited to dive into part two! I think the scope of the apocalyptic events slowly started to sink in with this book, especially when they visited LA. I kept expecting something to... I dunno... Arrive out of nowhere and say that it wasn't real, or it was a (very) elaborate hoax or something, which sounds daft, but I think what's happened was still unbelievable for a while, lol. It's a bit more haunting now that it's sinking in. What happened with Tiffany at the end was a twist, I wasn't expecting that! Just when I was starting to like her! Super curious about the mysterious Alaina... And can't wait to find out who's been speaking with Braxton Babcock. Dun dun dun! Another great read and I look forward to book 3!
I received an ARC of the book in exchange for a review. I loved book 1 and was very excited to dive into part two! I think the scope of the apocalyptic events slowly started to sink in with this book, especially when they visited LA. I kept expecting something to... I dunno... Arrive out of nowhere and say that it wasn't real, or it was a (very) elaborate hoax or something, which sounds daft, but I think what's happened was still unbelievable for a while, lol. It's a bit more haunting now that it's sinking in. What happened with Tiffany at the end was a twist, I wasn't expecting that! Just when I was starting to like her! Super curious about the mysterious Alaina... And can't wait to find out who's been speaking with Braxton Babcock. Dun dun dun! Another great read and I look forward to book 3!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 17, 2021
Never having read an apocalypse story before I was so happy that I was steered into the direction of this series. I just loved everything about Upheaval and after the way it ended I was not so patiently waiting for the sequel. Because like it is with the best series we were left hanging at the end.
We get to know who the voice on the other end is and that there are more survivors. I definitely loved with what Rita came up with who the other survivors are. But of course I won’t tell because I don’t wanna give too much away.
The group needs to come up with a plan to survive and most of all they need to find a way to work together. And what’s easier than that when you have a spoiled member like Tiffany in the group that is constantly up for stirring more drama. To be honest I loved that she is there because otherwise the story would just lose something.
Of course even without Tiffany the situation wouldn’t be a walk in the park. Then they need to build a new future because the world they knew is gone. I loved this part of the book because I definitely wouldn’t have thought of lots of things Rita did but when you read it will think oh yes of course they need that. And once more I couldn’t put the book down because I was so engrossed. Again I won’t reveal too much because everyone needs to read for themselves. There is definitely a lot happening until you are left hanging again at the end. LOL
What I can say is that I felt once again so excited during the book, I felt their fear, laughed but also cried with them. So I think most of the feelings that are out there.
I also would like to say some things about the characters (or some of them because there are many like in book one). The story is set again mostly around Dillon, a character I already loved in the last book. We get to know more about her insecurities and fears, all packed in a butch persona. And what can I say I fell in love even more with her and her growing relationship with Skylar. Skylar which is very alluring and mysterious. But she also has such a good heart that so far she always protected. I definitely felt drawn to her and wanted to know more about her. And we definitely get to know a lot more. All things that made me love her even more.
Then there is Cynthia, Tiffany‘s girlfriend Anne, Renee, Katie and of course Tiffany. During the story they all play an important role and they grew to me. And these are only a few of all the characters you will get to know more of.
I had several favourite scenes where I just loved how some things were addressed by Rita. One was when the leaders of the groups are meeting up and Tiffany has one of her moments. The other is a talk between Skylar and Dillon and then there is a talk between Katie and Dillon. I just loved how they talked. Without judgement about anyones feeling because when a situation like this (not that I have any idea about it… LOL) hits you, you will probably do things differently than you would have otherwise. And maybe you even leave your comfort zone.
And now I feel similar as I did after the first book. On the one hand I am so very happy I was able to read this wonderful and exciting book. On the other hand I know that I will have to wait even longer for the next book than I had to after the first one. And that definitely doesn’t make me happy. I mean I’m known for my patience about just everything. But I think for me it stops when it’s about books. 🤣 And this definitely is meant as a huge compliment for Rita. 😊
So now I definitely recommend to start reading this story. And if you haven’t read Upheaval then of course start there.
I received an advance reader copy from the author and voluntarily leaving a review.
We get to know who the voice on the other end is and that there are more survivors. I definitely loved with what Rita came up with who the other survivors are. But of course I won’t tell because I don’t wanna give too much away.
The group needs to come up with a plan to survive and most of all they need to find a way to work together. And what’s easier than that when you have a spoiled member like Tiffany in the group that is constantly up for stirring more drama. To be honest I loved that she is there because otherwise the story would just lose something.
Of course even without Tiffany the situation wouldn’t be a walk in the park. Then they need to build a new future because the world they knew is gone. I loved this part of the book because I definitely wouldn’t have thought of lots of things Rita did but when you read it will think oh yes of course they need that. And once more I couldn’t put the book down because I was so engrossed. Again I won’t reveal too much because everyone needs to read for themselves. There is definitely a lot happening until you are left hanging again at the end. LOL
What I can say is that I felt once again so excited during the book, I felt their fear, laughed but also cried with them. So I think most of the feelings that are out there.
I also would like to say some things about the characters (or some of them because there are many like in book one). The story is set again mostly around Dillon, a character I already loved in the last book. We get to know more about her insecurities and fears, all packed in a butch persona. And what can I say I fell in love even more with her and her growing relationship with Skylar. Skylar which is very alluring and mysterious. But she also has such a good heart that so far she always protected. I definitely felt drawn to her and wanted to know more about her. And we definitely get to know a lot more. All things that made me love her even more.
Then there is Cynthia, Tiffany‘s girlfriend Anne, Renee, Katie and of course Tiffany. During the story they all play an important role and they grew to me. And these are only a few of all the characters you will get to know more of.
I had several favourite scenes where I just loved how some things were addressed by Rita. One was when the leaders of the groups are meeting up and Tiffany has one of her moments. The other is a talk between Skylar and Dillon and then there is a talk between Katie and Dillon. I just loved how they talked. Without judgement about anyones feeling because when a situation like this (not that I have any idea about it… LOL) hits you, you will probably do things differently than you would have otherwise. And maybe you even leave your comfort zone.
And now I feel similar as I did after the first book. On the one hand I am so very happy I was able to read this wonderful and exciting book. On the other hand I know that I will have to wait even longer for the next book than I had to after the first one. And that definitely doesn’t make me happy. I mean I’m known for my patience about just everything. But I think for me it stops when it’s about books. 🤣 And this definitely is meant as a huge compliment for Rita. 😊
So now I definitely recommend to start reading this story. And if you haven’t read Upheaval then of course start there.
I received an advance reader copy from the author and voluntarily leaving a review.
November 22, 2021
As a fan of dystopian and lesbian fiction I love this series. I really enjoyed Upheaval but Survival is even better. In the first book with everything going on you do not get to know the characters. The setting and plot are center stage but in book 2 you get to know the characters. They are an amazing deep mix. I am looking forward to book 3.
June 3, 2022
Rita, you’re killing me! :)
I read the first book in this series, Upheaval, and it ended on a bit of a cliffhanger. Fortunately, I was able to dive immediately into book 2, Survival, and lo and behold…cliffhanger ending #2 struck! LOL. Actually, I really don’t mind the cliffhangers and I am super pumped for when book 3 releases. Can’t wait to see what happens next!
This particular portion of the trilogy did a really great job of further diving into group dynamics and we got to see some real growth, especially in one of the characters. If you like apocalyptic settings and find the sociological aspects of the survivors interesting, then this book is definitely worth checking out! I highly recommend reading book 1 first though, as it sets up the story and introduces the majority of the characters.
Now to “patiently” wait for book 3 which is coming mid-July. *happy dance*
I read the first book in this series, Upheaval, and it ended on a bit of a cliffhanger. Fortunately, I was able to dive immediately into book 2, Survival, and lo and behold…cliffhanger ending #2 struck! LOL. Actually, I really don’t mind the cliffhangers and I am super pumped for when book 3 releases. Can’t wait to see what happens next!
This particular portion of the trilogy did a really great job of further diving into group dynamics and we got to see some real growth, especially in one of the characters. If you like apocalyptic settings and find the sociological aspects of the survivors interesting, then this book is definitely worth checking out! I highly recommend reading book 1 first though, as it sets up the story and introduces the majority of the characters.
Now to “patiently” wait for book 3 which is coming mid-July. *happy dance*
August 28, 2023
Book 2 starts off where Upheaval left off. The group is learning more about what may have happened. They’re worried about the people they left behind, but they know they need to stay in their safe place and come to terms with what to do. How will they survive? Survival is packed with events from forming a committee to lead the group to making the place defensible to scavenging and so on. It felt nonstop. Some of the plot twists were amusing or endearing while others were painful, shocking, and hard to read. I was shocked when I read that all these events took place in a span of 2 days from the beginning of Upheaval to the end of this volume. I had to reread to see if I had read that right. It felt like it was longer; so much happened – finding the place, meeting each other, Leslie’s discovery that led them to search the estate, rescuing new people, the brouhaha over relationships, and much more. It's definitely a fast-paced series so far, at least for the characters. Anyway, I’m ready for Betrayal now.
January 1, 2023
5 stars! I just can't get enough of this series it is so addicting! I have started to love so many of the characters and love that we are getting different povs besides Dillon and Skylar. I feel like I am finally getting to know more of the characters.
The beginning of the book is still more preparation and planning since the disaster has just started but towards the end of the book so much happened. Some of the characters I did not like at all had grown on me and I love the progression with Dillon and Skylar.
I am so glad the third book is already out because the cliffhangers are killing me! I can't wait to dive into book 3 because there are still so many questions I need answers to!
The beginning of the book is still more preparation and planning since the disaster has just started but towards the end of the book so much happened. Some of the characters I did not like at all had grown on me and I love the progression with Dillon and Skylar.
I am so glad the third book is already out because the cliffhangers are killing me! I can't wait to dive into book 3 because there are still so many questions I need answers to!
December 11, 2021
I devoured this book. I couldn’t wait to read it after book 1, Upheaval. Peter keeps you on the edge of your seat with this series. I love the characters, even Tiffany and her not caring attitude. I was on hoping they would find out more about what happened when they were in LA. The cliffhanger at the end has me waiting for book 3 to come out soon. I love this series and hope it continues for a few more books. The world building is great and it seems like Potter thought of everything that would and could happen, of course. I would definitely recommend this book and series to others, just start with book 1 so you get what’s happened.
Looking forward to reading book 3!!!
Looking forward to reading book 3!!!
May 29, 2025
Why are men still saviors? (Who can answer me)
I simply cannot put into words how disappointed and disgusted I was with this book.
In a lesbian story with 40 women, why are two men still so involved?
Not only do they have decision-making power, they're armed, and can you imagine two women being allowed to do that in a story about 40 men and two women ？？？？？
We've read too many sci-fi stories without women in them, so why does lesbian fiction rely so heavily on men?
Who can tell me?
All I can say is that women still aren't confident enough to believe they're in control, even in their dreams.
50% DNF
I simply cannot put into words how disappointed and disgusted I was with this book.
In a lesbian story with 40 women, why are two men still so involved?
Not only do they have decision-making power, they're armed, and can you imagine two women being allowed to do that in a story about 40 men and two women ？？？？？
We've read too many sci-fi stories without women in them, so why does lesbian fiction rely so heavily on men?
Who can tell me?
All I can say is that women still aren't confident enough to believe they're in control, even in their dreams.
50% DNF
January 18, 2025
The first book had promise - a few irritating moments but not enough to ruin it for me. This one…..most of the women here are emotionally stunted lunatics!
Skylar - needs to be medicated. She is so unlikable - the way the author portrays her sweet one moment - sharon tongued and aggressive the next - I swear she is bipolar.
80% of the characters behave as immature, emotionally volatile, teenagers and not the professional business women in their 30s they are supposed to be.
Too much - this book was too much
Skylar - needs to be medicated. She is so unlikable - the way the author portrays her sweet one moment - sharon tongued and aggressive the next - I swear she is bipolar.
80% of the characters behave as immature, emotionally volatile, teenagers and not the professional business women in their 30s they are supposed to be.
Too much - this book was too much
June 9, 2023
Book 2 in the As We Know It series and the end of book definitely had me intrigued. The end of book 2 was equally as good. Rita Potter definitely is really good at endings because every time they’ve sucked me in so I had to immediately pick up the next book in the series to see what happens next. I loved that the second book had so much character growth from book one and I really feel like the story hit its stride in this one.
July 28, 2022
Wow
I gave it 5 stars because I couldn't put the book down I'm really glad that I started reading this series it is very good the story is very interesting and the most important part will be the characters. The best part about this book would be that it keeps your attention Can't wait for the next book.
I gave it 5 stars because I couldn't put the book down I'm really glad that I started reading this series it is very good the story is very interesting and the most important part will be the characters. The best part about this book would be that it keeps your attention Can't wait for the next book.
November 30, 2021
Survival
Lots of times the second book is a let down,but it anything this one is even better. I love end of day books and this one is very well written. It has you hanging on the edge of your chair unable to close your book. Can't wait for the next one in the series.
Lots of times the second book is a let down,but it anything this one is even better. I love end of day books and this one is very well written. It has you hanging on the edge of your chair unable to close your book. Can't wait for the next one in the series.
February 6, 2022
Could not put it down!
I can usually tell when I am close to the end of a book. I literally turned the page and was like oh crap!!!! This story like me in right from the start and i can't wait for the next book!
I can usually tell when I am close to the end of a book. I literally turned the page and was like oh crap!!!! This story like me in right from the start and i can't wait for the next book!
January 16, 2023
Where Does It Go Next?
Some people do die in this one. That being said it was almost like things were being wrapped up as nice as possible. Even with this, it was a good go between for the series. I'm still planning on reading the next one in the series to see where it goes.
Some people do die in this one. That being said it was almost like things were being wrapped up as nice as possible. Even with this, it was a good go between for the series. I'm still planning on reading the next one in the series to see where it goes.
June 7, 2024
Exciting and action-packed, and might be useful in case of an actual apocalypse.
I accidentally read this one before Upheaval, would not recommend skipping the first book simply because it might be better for most people to get the character's backgrounds and story of how it all started.
I accidentally read this one before Upheaval, would not recommend skipping the first book simply because it might be better for most people to get the character's backgrounds and story of how it all started.
February 13, 2022
Love it
I am really enjoying the series. I like seeing the different dynamics within the groups. This has been a very enjoyable experience reading these 2 books.
I am really enjoying the series. I like seeing the different dynamics within the groups. This has been a very enjoyable experience reading these 2 books.
May 18, 2022
A good follow up
A mix of action and interpersonal stories, this book is a good read that delves a little deeper into the characters.
A mix of action and interpersonal stories, this book is a good read that delves a little deeper into the characters.
May 29, 2022
great read
Part 2 of the series continues with the same thread of high suspense, ending on yet another cliffhanger!Highly recommend this series!
Part 2 of the series continues with the same thread of high suspense, ending on yet another cliffhanger!Highly recommend this series!
July 14, 2022
Survival, Book two of the As We Know It series was even better than book one, Upheaval. With every book Rita Potter writes she gets better and better. I’m chomping at the bit to read book three.
December 9, 2022
Good book
I liked this good. The more I got to reading it the more interesting it got. I liked that they bonded as a family and they all care for each other.
I liked this good. The more I got to reading it the more interesting it got. I liked that they bonded as a family and they all care for each other.
September 12, 2023
Great continuation of the trilogy!
December 14, 2021
Survival can be read as a standalone as Potter is great recapping as they move the story along, but I read the first book and I highly recommend it. Dillon is our main character, but there are plenty of other lesbians with strong storylines and even a straight guy who ends up being a strong ally to the women.
Potter expands the story outside the compound to other survivors across the country. What the group decides to do about contacting them and what the potential results could be are the groundwork that Potter lays out for the next part of the series. I sense trouble on the horizon for everyone and I cannot wait.
I received an ARC of this book and I am writing a review without prejudice and voluntarily.
Check out the rest of my review at Phoebe's Randoms. Link in bio.
Potter expands the story outside the compound to other survivors across the country. What the group decides to do about contacting them and what the potential results could be are the groundwork that Potter lays out for the next part of the series. I sense trouble on the horizon for everyone and I cannot wait.
I received an ARC of this book and I am writing a review without prejudice and voluntarily.
Check out the rest of my review at Phoebe's Randoms. Link in bio.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews