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Rapture (Rapture Trilogy #1)

by Phillip W. Simpson (Goodreads Author)

3.98 of 5 stars 3.98 · rating details · 225 ratings · 91 reviews

The Rapture has occurred, just as the Bible predicted. The faithful have risen up to Heaven. Those left behind are in a living hell.

Earth burns, hell-like in its oppressive heat. Every volcano in the world has erupted, and tsunamis and earthquakes continue to devastate the planet. Clouds continually rain ash onto the scorched landscape, sparking fires all around. Plants a...more

Mass Market Paperback, 1st Edition, 300 pages

Published October 21st 2011 by Pear Jam Books (first published August 21st 2011)

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Red, Red is the Color of My Love: YA & Adult Covers 2011-2012

56th out of 155 books — 122 voters

Team Dystopian

22nd out of 52 books — 116 voters

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Jan 08, 2013 Tracy rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: august-reading-challenge, kindle, tracys-books-2012, s-u-m-m-e-r-2012

I loved this book and I love it's subject matter. Many people shy away from these subjects, not sure unless it's because it is so controversial. I think Mr Simpson did a fabulous job bringing to life a scenario that could be a reality. Whether it was from his own beliefs or not I loved the story.

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Mar 31, 2012 Tatiyana rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: absolutely-loved, so-good-i-read-it-sideways, beautiful-covers

F*@$ Yesss!!!

::full review ADDED::

I am no fan of the eBook. For me there is nothing on this earth that can replace the feel of a book- I love the heavy weight of one in my hands. I love the slight rasp the bottom of a page makes as it turns. I love the smell of the ink and not having to worry that the words will flicker out of existence when the battery dies. But I know there are some pros to having an eBook reader, and I mean no disrespect to those who use them. They’re just not for me.

Natural...more

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Nov 27, 2011 Kat rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: apocalypse, ya, demons, angels, updated

Full review on my blog: http://theaussiezombie.blogspot.com

Rapture throws you right into the post-apocalyptic wasteland, complete with demons and an instantly likable character in Sam. The demons are everything your worst nightmares are made of and more, the imagery of the wastelands are moving, and Sam is a young man with strong loyalties to his family and the responsibility to save every survivor he meets.

The history of Sam is told through a series of flashbacks to his childhood and teenage ye...more

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Apr 13, 2013 Cherie rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I've always been fascinated by retellings of Biblical stories and I'm a big fan of post-apocalyptic fiction so I jumped at the chance to read Rapture. Sam is a half-demon who is left behind when the faithful are all called to heaven during the Rapture. Left with him on earth are the unbelievers and the wicked who now have to endure seven years of Tribulation before Jesus comes back to reign on earth.

This Tribulation involves demons. Lots and lots of really creepy, scary and evil demons. Sam and...more I've always been fascinated by retellings of Biblical stories and I'm a big fan of post-apocalyptic fiction so I jumped at the chance to read Rapture. Sam is a half-demon who is left behind when the faithful are all called to heaven during the Rapture. Left with him on earth are the unbelievers and the wicked who now have to endure seven years of Tribulation before Jesus comes back to reign on earth.

This Tribulation involves demons. Lots and lots of really creepy, scary and evil demons. Sam and the rest of those left behind must fight for their lives each night against hordes of demons who want to drag them off to hell. This makes for some really great action sequences. Sam uses a Katana and a Wakizashi to fight which is an interesting change from the usual guns and bullets we see in most modern fight sequences. I enjoyed learning a little bit about them and the bits of Japanese culture woven in through Sam's training.

My biggest problem with this book is the style of writing. There was a lot of telling instead of showing and the writing was somewhat stilted so I didn't really connect with the story or any of the characters. Sam should be a sympathetic character. We know of his history through flashbacks that should make us feel for Sam - how he is always in-between humans and demons. How is is forever lonely. How he has to shoulder this immense responsibility even though he can never reap the rewards from it. I understand Sam but I didn't really empathize with him. The other characters in the book were never really developed enough that I cared what happened to them, either.

As for the plot, it was generally exciting and moved along well but I found that it was a little bit predictable. Nothing really surprising happened and even the "twist" was predicted. Despite that, I enjoyed Sam's journey for the most part.

One of my favorite things about this book is the world-building. Post-rapture Earth is a very different place from the one we know today. There is no sun, everything is covered in ash, plants and animals are dying. It's a very bleak and very hot place. I really felt like I could see and feel everything in the environment.

While this may sound like Christian fiction, it's really not. Granted, the premise is taken from Christian dogma, but it's used more as the setting of the story than a lesson in Christianity. Non-Christian readers should not be scared to give this one a try. There is no Bible thumping and nothing will be shoved down your throat.

Overall, I enjoyed this one and will probably check out the other two books in the trilogy, Tribulation and Apocalypse. I would recommend this book to all fans of post-apocalyptic fiction and the action sequences and male POV make this a good choice for boys who may be reluctant to read.

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Apr 07, 2013 Ana rated it 5 of 5 stars

The Adventures Within blog and RABT tour host

I really enjoyed this book. The things that happened felt so real as if you were in the book also. I seriously thought that Phillip did a fabulous job, I felt every emption, I loved the action parts, the ending was amazing Sam seemed like someone that you would have on your team if something like that ever happened in real life.

The book was fast paced and I was left wanting more because I didn't want it to end. I was stunned by how much detail and inf...more

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Mar 26, 2013 Angela Oliver rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: young-adult, urban-fantasy, new-zealand

I'm a bit ambivalent about this book, and would probably have rated it at 2 1/2 stars if I could have. The author has some good ideas, and creates a story that could be compelling - and I imagine would find itself quite popular with teenage boys that are not particularly interested in reading - but the writing style feels stilted and a little robotic (it is very much along the lines of tell, not show) and the cliches are a little bit too much. Overall it is a far better US dystopia novel (writte...more I'm a bit ambivalent about this book, and would probably have rated it at 2 1/2 stars if I could have. The author has some good ideas, and creates a story that could be compelling - and I imagine would find itself quite popular with teenage boys that are not particularly interested in reading - but the writing style feels stilted and a little robotic (it is very much along the lines of tell, not show) and the cliches are a little bit too much. Overall it is a far better US dystopia novel (written by a NZ author) than fellow Pear Jam author Anaru Bickford's "Aroha" but both felt along similar lines. In fact, the two of them could probably work out a cross-over novel where Aroha meets Sam. However, in this one the plot flows better and it builds to a more dramatic conclusion, as well as the romantic relationship (such as it is) being more realistic and convincing. I believe Simpson shows a lot of promise, and am curious to read the follow ups to this book.

Initially I was a bit confused in the geography, because if Jacobs Ladder is near Arches National Park, then it is in the south east corner, and to the best of my knowledge the Rockies ran north-east of there, and thus could not be between him and LA, but some mention was made of Boulder as well. Then I googled Black Ridge (which is part of a mountain range, and therefore probably an extension of the Rockies) and I know where the Grand Canyon and Las Vegas are, so I could track his route and it did somewhat make sense. I've recently been there (to Arches, in fact) so I find it interesting to read about places I know - even if they have been irrefuteably changed. There is a place called Jacobs Ladder up near Salt Lake City, but it seems to be a mountain bike track.

Anyhow, once I came to terms with the geography, I settled in the story. Samael (Sam) is an interesting character because he is half demon, but is pretty much human in his emotions and personality. Alas, because of his demon nature he also comes across as "too perfect" - in that he is strong, almost invincible, really really fast and good looking too. I do like the fact that he tends to run from emotional conflict too (although not from real conflict). Aimi seemed like an interesting character, but her relationship with Sam, whilst convincing, also felt kind of wooden. Due to the tell not show nature of the story telling, it was hard for the reader to feel their feelings for one another. His mission was pretty standard and very cliched. In fact, the whole "hell on earth" thing was such a predictable cliche. Smoke, rain of fire, earthquakes. The demons. Hell itself. It was all one walking cliche with no real surprises and no real tension. At first Grace - espcially the way she went all simpering and pathetic at the Watcher, annoyed me, but at least she ended up pretty kick-arse. I'd have liked to see more of her. the succubi were lame.

I'd have to say that the kinda-not-really twist at the end was entirely predictable, although I was somewhat startled when a certain other character that I had considered safely out of things turned up as part of the climax. So that was something. However, due to the writing style, I was a bit hoo-hum about everything and did not feel much empathy for the characters, although I did like Sam.

It was an okay read, and I would pick up the sequels, but only because I believe the writing style would improve. If this were a manuscript I was assessing, I would encourage the writer to flesh out his characters a little more, to show emotions instead of telling them and to work more tension into his fight scenes.

Also, as in "Aroha" I also found one mis-use of "you're" instead of "your". I am wondering if this is a Pear Jam thing, and am currently reading a third Pear Jam novel (written by the creator of Pear Jam herself) and will be keeping an eye out for another grammatical error "Easter egg". So, stay tuned for that review. (less)

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Mar 14, 2013 Lisa (Bookworm Lisa) rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2013, dystopian, paranormal, received-to-review, young-adult

Rapture is a unique look at what life could be like after the rapture, when the faithful souls are taken into heaven, and the rest are left on earth to face seven years of tribulation before Christ's Second Coming.

I really liked the character of Sam. Throughout the book he was put in a position of scrutiny and ridicule and still held firm to his thoughts and beliefs. He is half demon and therefore was not eligible to be taken into Heaven with those that he loved. He doesn't really fit in with th...more

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Mar 03, 2013 WeaklingNo14 rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: angel, controlling, creatures, crime, death, demon, e-books, government, other-world, royalty, spy, strict, supernatural, war

Also at: http://weaklingno14.blogspot.co.uk

Rapture (Rapture #1) - Phillip W. Simpson

Angels are one of my most favourite genres to read. I freaking love it, how every time it's told differently, the angels and demons are different, the worlds...this book is now on my favourites shelf. Because its that awesome :P

You know, I was expecting this read to be awkward, but it actually wasn't. The main protagonist was a guy, and I haven't read that in ages. As far as I can remember, most YA books have fem...more Also at: http://weaklingno14.blogspot.co.uk

Rapture (Rapture #1) - Phillip W. Simpson

Angels are one of my most favourite genres to read. I freaking love it, how every time it's told differently, the angels and demons are different, the worlds...this book is now on my favourites shelf. Because its that awesome :P

You know, I was expecting this read to be awkward, but it actually wasn't. The main protagonist was a guy, and I haven't read that in ages. As far as I can remember, most YA books have female protagonists, that I've read, and I expected some weirdness, you know? I'm just not used to it. But it was actually a great experience! You could tell that it was a guy. There was just an underlying vibe, the word used, just made it feel all the more realistic. Which I should have expected, the authors a guy, so...haha, please ignore any weirdness in this review, I just finished a marathon revision session and my brain is absolutely scrambled.

Speaking of words (somewhere above) the description in this book was beautiful. Really. It never felt too much, or too little. I know everything the author wanted me to know. This book is also generally shorter than most books I read, it's only 131 pages on .pdf, most books I read are 200+, and it describes better than most of those longer books. What I'm saying is, sometimes you just need the right words to make something work, and Phillip Simpson uses all the right ones ;P

Umm...the plot! This was executed beautifully, I was on the edge of my seat, heart pounding, wanting to know what happened next. Seriously, I couldn't read fast enough. I was moving my eyes so fast, that after I stopped reading, my eyes would keep twitching, lol.

This book is a definite must read. It has to be added to your shelves, right now, I don't care. Or I swear to god I'll send one of Sam's relatives down in hell after you. This really has got everything...I was hooked from the beginning, and I am so glad I had the chance to read it and take part in this tour. The interview was very interesting to read through. I will most likely be checking out the rest of the trilogy. I'm told it ends very well, and I can't wait to see for myself.

Also at: http://weaklingno14.blogspot.co.uk (less)

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Dec 03, 2011 Kate rated it 4 of 5 stars

What if the Rapture occured and everyone you love was gone? What if instead of dealing with your loss and grief you had o prepare yourself for an epic battle that would alter the course of earth? This is pretty much the scenario that Sam faces after the Rapture. he has long known who and what he is, and what his role will be, but knowing it isn’t the same as being ready to actually take on the task of saving the world.

This is a pretty epic story that deals with a lot of hefty issues. To be hones...more

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Dec 01, 2011 Miranda Wheeler rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Sam has known his entire life he was different. Hikari, his mentor, Sensei, and father-figure, raised and trained him in the confines of their private home. He refers to Sam as his "ward" to the outside world. In public sight, Sam wears a cap or a hood to hide his bloodline. As a half-demon, half-human, he's battling his nature - and tells of it, like the horns protruding from his black hair or inhuman eyes. His only daily interaction aside from Hikari is the Sensei's daughter, Aimi, who Sam is...more
Sam has known his entire life he was different. Hikari, his mentor, Sensei, and father-figure, raised and trained him in the confines of their private home. He refers to Sam as his "ward" to the outside world. In public sight, Sam wears a cap or a hood to hide his bloodline. As a half-demon, half-human, he's battling his nature - and tells of it, like the horns protruding from his black hair or inhuman eyes. His only daily interaction aside from Hikari is the Sensei's daughter, Aimi, who Sam is sure he loves. Trained as an amazing warrior, it isn't clear until he learns of the Rapture what his destiny is: to protect the innocents left behind from the demons savaging the Earth, and to destroy the most horrifying prophecy in the Bible.

Strongly founded in the terrifying prophecies of the New Testament, especially the Rapture most thoroughly described Revelations, this book is one of the most unique post-apocalyptic YA books I've seen yet. Fast-paced and engrossing, it kicks off with Sam about to face hoards of Lemure - a type of demon that is unleashed in churches after the Rapture to literally drag you to hell - and doesn't slow down. Multiple-sword-wielding Sam is determined to fight against his nature, his tempters, and the very blood that runs through his veins. Aimi tells him he is not a beast but a man - a good man, and he is determined to be just that.

Reading this book, you grow to adore and pity Sam. Despite his fervent beliefs, inspiring morals and courage, and half-human heritage, because of the demon that raped his mother, he is convinced that he will never be allowed into Heaven. Aimi and Hikari were gone - he had always known they would be taken, lifted up with the Rapture. As it happened, he hoped and prayed, but found himself left behind to deal with the earthquakes, fire, brimstone, bloodmoon, and inescapable ash. Knowing he can never go where his loved ones are means knowing he will never see them again. It seems to burn every time he saves one more person, willingly prepares to martyr himself one more time, does some courageous and scary thing only because he knows its right. In spite his proficiency and skill at traveling alone, these qualities cause him to pick up seemingly loyal companions like Josh and Grace along the way. His first non-Aimi human teenage friends.

Rapture molds this terrifying and fascinating post-Rapture world invested with the creatures of Hell itself. Dynamics are sewn in amazing layers and details permanently are embedding an awe-inspiring picture of a world of ashes in your mind. On another level, it seems to have you evaluating yourself as a reader: what if that was you? Would you be strong enough? Adding to its uniqueness, some of the best parts of the book are in perfectly paced hindsight, and the impressive detail, facts, and culture is flooded into the world-building, somehow mixing a warrior's side of Japanese ways and Christian prophecy essential to the religion. YA literature hasn't seen anything like this since Left Behind.

Precessing each chapter is a haunting, quote (often biblical) and each sub-section (in the .Mobi format, anyhow) is divided with an image of gray flames. Every chapter began and ended with a gripping hook, and each managed to individually reshape the readers' view of the overall story. Both the pacing and writing was fantastic - when I began reading, I didn't stop until I finished the entire book. I loved it, and I've already recommended the read to several people! This is definitely one of my favorite reads of 2011!

It's very clean, aside from minor things (Succubi, a swear once or twice - definitely not a problem) but has an amazing darkness and intelligent concepts, making it a perfect fit for all YA readers. The religion addressed is in no way offensive - if your religious (Christian, at least), it definitely adds to the enjoyment of the book and appreciation of the concepts, and if your not, it doesn't take away, which is perfectly executed.

I recommend for all post-apocalyptic and dystopian readers, and readers who enjoyed: The Thirst Series by Christopher Pike, The Left Behind Series by Tim LaHaye and Jerry B. Jenkins, Hollowland by Amanda Hocking, Looking For Alaska by John Green, and The Uglies Trilogy by Scott Westerfield, as well as any fans of Hanna, Priest, Electra, Underworld, Legion, I Am Legend, I Am Number Four, The Walking Dead (TV), and Jericho (TV).

Highly recommended! Go get yourself a copy!

View the original review here: http://ricochetreviews.blogspot.com/2...(less)

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Aug 31, 2011 Juanita rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: favorites

I don't normally read ebooks on my iPhone, but once I started reading Rapture, I could not put it down. Rapture is a fast paced, action filled, apocalyptic tale that gripped me the whole way through. Sam's fight for survival (both from the harsh land, and the hordes of demons attacking him) is mirrored by the beautifully described desolate setting. Sam, is a half human/half demon sword-wielding protagonist, and the author manages the fine balance of angsty and irritating by making Sam determined...more

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Jan 24, 2013 Amy H rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: arc-netgalley

this book was an easy read, and it was hard to put down...hense it only took me one full day to read it!

this book is what everyone is afraid of... the end of all and ugly place. wondering if anyone is left in your town but all your left with is hunger and your thoughts!

Sam, our main character, is, well, a demon. But despite the bad karma of his birth, Sam wants so badly to be a good, kind, normal kid. The problem is, he's not. his mother a full of christian woman was seduced by the devil.Sam is...more

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Feb 04, 2012 Mallory Anne-Marie Forbes rated it 5 of 5 stars Recommends it for: post-apocalyptic aficionados; YA paranormal; suspense & horror

Fascinating and riveting! Author Phillip W. Simpson takes the post-apocalyptic vision out for a new test drive: rather than a plague, a nuclear holocaust, or an overrun of zombies, here is the Christian rapture foretold for two millennia, actually occurring. The fortunate ones have ascended, for what’s left of the planet is now fit neither for human nor animal-only for demons. Half-demon is exactly why eighteen-year-old Samael is still alive, nearly starving, frightened, and self-defensive. Mons...more

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Dec 18, 2011 Kat rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2011, first-reads, won-from-giveaways

I received this book through the Goodreads First Reads program.

Now normally I don't think I would have picked up a book like this if I had seen it at the bookstore, but I'm really glad that I was given the chance to read it through the First Reads program. I was pleasantly surprised to find that I really enjoyed it. One thing that made the book so enjoyable was the pacing, which I thought was perfect. There would be some moments of downtime, but an action scene would quickly follow so the story...more

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Mar 16, 2013 Elizabeth "Liza" rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: angels, blog-tour, demons, dystopian, ebook, paranormal, series

Find the review and more here:Reading with ABC

I’ve seen reviews of Rapture in other blogs and I was intrigued by the cover and the synopsis, thus I jumped at the opportunity to review it for this tour. It wasn’t quite what I expected, that is to say, that I was pleasantly surprised.

Rapture is a post-apocalyptic tale with heavy religious undertones. The story begins when Sam is ready to start his quest, a few weeks after the rapture. From there, the story is comprised of mostly alternating chapte...more Find the review and more here:Reading with ABC

I’ve seen reviews of Rapture in other blogs and I was intrigued by the cover and the synopsis, thus I jumped at the opportunity to review it for this tour. It wasn’t quite what I expected, that is to say, that I was pleasantly surprised.

Rapture is a post-apocalyptic tale with heavy religious undertones. The story begins when Sam is ready to start his quest, a few weeks after the rapture. From there, the story is comprised of mostly alternating chapters from the present to Sam’s past. The flashbacks give the reader an insight on Sam’s life, training, family and his responsibility. I rather like Sam’s voice; he is not perfect and doesn’t pretend to be. He had a sheltered life, but full of truths and a burden that’s not easy to carry. It’s refreshing that the main character knows exactly what he is and what his purpose is. I felt sorry for him at times; all in all he fought really hard to do the right thing.

Sam is a half demon, therefore he cannot rise to heaven regardless of how good he is. He’s not a normal teenager, he is socially awkward , distrusted and feared by most and really hard on himself. Other than Sam, we learn a lot about Hikari, his foster father and master, and Aimi, Hikari’s daughter and Sam’s only other companion. During his quest, Sam meets a few people, some better than others, the most memorable Joshua, Grace and Gabriel. I hope that at the end Sam gets a happy ending since he really deserves it.

The characterization is really good, even small characters are well developed and contribute to the story. The writing is articulate and eloquent; there is a lot of narrative to explain to the reader the background of the rapture and tribulation. The plot is original; the concept of the rapture is very interesting, as well as all the different nasty demons that invade Earth. I didn’t have an inkling about the twist towards the end, didn’t see it coming at all!

Overall, Rapture is a post-apocalyptic tale with paranormal and religious undertones that is fascinating to read. I will definitely pic up Tribulation, book two of the series very soon.
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Mar 02, 2013 Emily rated it 3 of 5 stars

The Rapture was sudden, loved ones gone in an instant and all the non-believers are left to fend for themselves against Hells utmost wicked demons. One of the abandoned is an 18-year-old boy named Sam, he is not surprised to find himself left behind and knows what comes after the remaining humans at night. Demons are coming to the world of man eliminating the non-believers and taking them back to Hell. If it was not for the diligent training his mentor and father figure thrust upon him at an ear...more

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Jan 28, 2013 Lissa & Alexa The Novel Lasses rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 4stars_i_was_crazy_about_it, new_ya

Novel Lass Reviews:

The cover was what first drew me to Rapture a few months back- the mysterious man with red eyes. Not one to as of late to read the synopsis but the flames licking the red eyed guy, and title held the promise it was going to be about angels and demons. Phillip W Simpson didn't disappoint. Not only did I get what was an assumed promise but I got my paranormal fill as well as a new POV to ponder about the coming apocalypse.

I'm not sure which is harder, to write a story about t...more

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Dec 11, 2011 Ritesh rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: fantasy, dystopia, reviewed, young-adults

Posted here: http://riteshkala.wordpress.com/

Set in a world where the Biblical prophecy of the Rapture has come true, the story follows the protagonist Sam. Sam is half-demon and-half human, having characteristics of both. He is stronger and faster than most humans, heals faster and is difficult to hurt. He of course has horns protruding from his head, which makes interacting with people a little difficult. Like a demon, he is burned by contact with anything holy and cannot venture near a church...more Posted here: http://riteshkala.wordpress.com/

Set in a world where the Biblical prophecy of the Rapture has come true, the story follows the protagonist Sam. Sam is half-demon and-half human, having characteristics of both. He is stronger and faster than most humans, heals faster and is difficult to hurt. He of course has horns protruding from his head, which makes interacting with people a little difficult. Like a demon, he is burned by contact with anything holy and cannot venture near a church. But, he has all the emotions of a human. He is awkward and shy, gets angry and ashamed and feels loyalty and love.

Sam’s entire world revolves around Hikari, his mentor and father-figure and his daughter Aimi. Sam is mainly confined to their house and only steps outside in the dark, or when he is wearing a cap or a hood to cover his horns. Sam has been trained as a warrior right from a very young age and is extremely proficient in using various weapons as well as hand-to-hand combat aided by his inhuman strength and speed. He is portrayed as fumbling his way through almost everything else. He has difficulty expressing himself and is positively disastrous in his interactions with others his age. Sam is in love with Aimi, and she is the only person with whom he interacts somewhat freely. This love story develops throughout the book, and I suspect it will have much larger role to play in later ones.

His true destiny and the reason behind this training only come to light, when he learns about the rapture and the role he will have to play once it happens. As the story went on, I developed a liking for this ‘demon-child’, and his pain in knowing that he would lose all the he held dear in the rapture really seeps through the writing. We begin to feel sorry for him as we realise that he is expected to endanger his life for not for the people he loves but for people who have constantly feared him, ignored him and hated him for what he is, without knowing who he really is.

The post-rapture world created by the author is filled with natural disasters such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, fire raining from the sky, ash pouring down continuously and infestations of innumerable demons from hell. The descriptions by the author are really vivid, and you can clearly see the morose world where one can only think of survival. In this world Sam sets out to meet his destiny to protect the innocents who have not been taken up to heaven. Sam’s strong character shines through in this world as he willingly puts himself in danger a number of times in order to save every innocent person he comes across, so much so that he is willing to follow the demons into hell to protect a friend. The number and diverse nature of the demons in the book made it really interesting. They were described well and there characteristics clearly defined.

Sam sets out to find and fight his ultimate enemy, the leader from hell. Along the way he gets help from a number of people. A couple of teenage companions also join him in this fight. He finds divine help along the way and is guided by an angel to the right path.

I have to say that the author is a master at describing Sam’s fight moves with his swords. It is easy to get into monotonous repetitions, but I never felt that happening anywhere in the book. The fight sequences have been terrifically choreographed and I just loved getting immersed in them. Another thing I really loved about the book was the alternating description of current events which we read with bated breath and the flash backs to the past where we found out how Sam ended up in the current state. The book is amazingly fast-paced and action-packed and I did not once feel the story slowing down.

I should note a couple of points which could trip up readers. Firstly, this book draws substantial parts of the story-line from the Bible. At a number of places, the sentiments of a number of people, who ignore the fictional and fantastical nature of the story, could be hurt, especially atheists and people of other religions. Try and remember that this is a fictional account and is not a philosophical statement (atleast I think it is so). In fact, initially I was feeling offended at a number of places, but as the story continued and I came to accept that this is foremost a fantasy book, I started feeling comfortable with the story and was able to really get into it and start cheering for the characters, even if one of them was half-demon. Another point of contention is the long and numerous battle scenes. Although vividly described, the detail can get overwhelming. Following all the action can get tedious and getting through the longer scenes can get boring, especially for those who do not like action sequences. Don’t get me wrong, I just loved these parts in all their detail. Personally, I would not have wanted it to be any other way. But I can see a number of people being put off by these. You have been forewarned!

Overall, I give the book four stars and want to see how the story develops in the rest of the books. I would love to see all the characters coming back and of course, for the GOOD side to win.
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Jan 18, 2013 Susan rated it 3 of 5 stars

First I want to thank the author, I received this book for free for a honest review

The Rapture has happened...is it everything you thought it would be?

For Sam it is. Ever since he was little he knew what was going to happen. Born half- human half- demon, raised with the faith, he knew he would be left behind to help the others who would also be left behind. Is it fair that he is a true believer but is not allowed to ascend with those he loves because he is part demon? I don't think so but we wou...more

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Jun 30, 2012 Melissa rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: summer-reading

I love my Kindle, I really do. But I am a bit sad that I can't get this book in a bookstore. I would have loved a hard copy.

That is honestly my only complaint! The subject matter was fascinating - I am not sure if there are other books about this prophesied event or not, but I know I have never read one. I normally would have NEVER picked up a book about the topic, but I saw amazing reviews about it and then fell in love with the cover.

And I am SO glad I read it!

This book was well paced, full o...more

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Feb 15, 2013 Melissa rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I downloaded book 2, Tribulation, immediately after I finished reading Rapture. It's that good. What I like most: The main character, Sam, knows who and what he is right from the start. There is no annoying wait for the nth birthday when a legacy or power manifests, no angst-filled surprise in the revelation of a lineage he is ignorant of, no tiresome wait for last minute disclosures. The suspense and mystery leans heavily on the consequences of Sam's present choices, not his past.

Sam is half h...more I downloaded book 2, Tribulation, immediately after I finished reading Rapture. It's that good. What I like most: The main character, Sam, knows who and what he is right from the start. There is no annoying wait for the nth birthday when a legacy or power manifests, no angst-filled surprise in the revelation of a lineage he is ignorant of, no tiresome wait for last minute disclosures. The suspense and mystery leans heavily on the consequences of Sam's present choices, not his past.

Sam is half human, half demon; born to be the Anti-Christ. But Sam is raised by the strong in faith Hikari, his martial arts master and foster father. Sam's inherent human goodness is nurtured and strengthened by Hikari and his daughter Aimi, such that his path is steered away from evil. Sam is destined instead to confront and kill the antichrist who has taken his place in the time of Tribulation.

Rapture is a biblical event that foretells the coming of Jesus Christ, when all faithful, including the children and the innocents, are taken into Heaven. Left behind are those without Faith, the agnostics, the pagans, the evil-doers, and even the innocent unknowing. Hikari and Aimi were taken in the Rapture, and Sam, though strong in faith than most humans, is left behind. Partly because his demon blood is not accepted in heaven, but mostly because his destiny includes "providing succour" to the repentant souls and the new believers left on Earth as they suffer the 7 years of Tribulation that follow after the Rapture.

The post-apocalyptic scenario depicted here is quite graphic . It is spine-chilling to imagine a world with evil creatures flowing out of portals, demons set loose to carry out malefic deeds to mankind. The pacing of the story is fast and steady, not one boring moment. When I encounter issues at some points, they are soon squarely resolved in the next pages. All the characters here give their share of spice to make the book a very good read. I love Sam, most especially. He is a paragon of virtue and faith; yet his physical appearance is the epitome of evil: black eyes, pale skin, and horns on his head. How is he to help others when the sight of him elicits fear, distrust and revulsion? And how is he to defeat an antichrist against hordes of powerful evil minions? With his katana and wakizashi plus some angelic aid, Sam is resolute to do his duty anyway.
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Jan 12, 2013 Tami rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I received a free copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review. I do not know the author personally.

Rapture grabbed my attention very early on and I thoroughly enjoyed this story. The imagery Simpson conveys is amazing – I had no trouble picturing the environment or the various demons that plagued the Earth following the Rapture.

Sam is a wonderful character, waging a battle to prevent evil taking hold of the Earth, all the while struggling with his own “inner demon”. Added t...more

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Sep 17, 2012 Belkis rated it 3 of 5 stars

This book was okay but not great. The writing was solid, just not captivating. The characters were fine just not relate-able. I never really warmed up to the Main character Sam. He came across as resentful of the great feat set upon his shoulders. I think that perhaps between his childhood flashbacks and his loneliness for mentor and father figure Hikari as well his Aimi, Hikari's daughter, Sam always felt young ad/or immature for such an undertaking as fighting to save humanity. Even the rest o...more This book was okay but not great. The writing was solid, just not captivating. The characters were fine just not relate-able. I never really warmed up to the Main character Sam. He came across as resentful of the great feat set upon his shoulders. I think that perhaps between his childhood flashbacks and his loneliness for mentor and father figure Hikari as well his Aimi, Hikari's daughter, Sam always felt young ad/or immature for such an undertaking as fighting to save humanity. Even the rest of the characters came across as flat. Especially due to the fact that the only interaction we get is from Sam's flashbacks. And the few people that Sam encounters along the way, Joshua, Grace, they're not really developed either. Satan's character and plans were a bit more interesting than Sam's musings most of the time.

The premise for this book is fantastic, that's why I bought this book in the first place. But upon diving into it I discovered that the author left no real surprises because most of the book's plot is divulged right in the synopsis. I wasn't expecting it to be just that, verbatim. There were no mysteries to be found since that was it, straight from the get go through it's entirety. Sam's journey to reach the destination where he will fight to save humanity.

The fight scenes are and action depicted were great. I think the author did a fantastic job delivering animated well thought out fight sequences and I was nicely engaged in the first few. But after a while they just became monotonous and repetitive. Now, maybe it could be partly cause I'm a girl and all, but for me at least, there needs to be more to a story in order to make a book interesting for me.

I think that Phillip Simpson has written an interesting story. I just feel like it wasn't delivered in the most interesting way. Character development I feel is number one in engaging a reader, and this book fell short on that in my opinion. Still, for those readers of YA, postapocalyptic, and paranormal genres would appreciate this book. Sadly for me it came in a little short.(less)

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May 18, 2012 Donna rated it 4 of 5 stars

Let me tell you what happened about this book. I think you all may have noticed that I'm not requesting and reviewing as many books as I was. Well, the reason is that I'm overwhelmed. I am basically taking 2 classes online, and I have asked for and received a bunch of books to review. I've hardly been able to read for fun. It's either read or sleep, and we all know which one wins out in the end.

Anyway, I had requested this book months ago, and it had slipped my mind. The author sent me a reminde...more

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Jan 27, 2013 Sonali rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: dystopian, angels-demons

For full review visit http://reviewbuzzz.blogspot.in/2013/0...

This is my first dystopian read and it was amazing. The subject matter was fantastic. This story is set in the post-apocalyptic period. The Rapture had occurred as predicted in The Bible and all the most devote worshippers of Jesus have been taken up to the Heaven while the nonbelievers and the damned have been left on earth to brave hurricanes, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions.

This book basically revolves around Sam, a half demon...more For full review visit http://reviewbuzzz.blogspot.in/2013/0...

This is my first dystopian read and it was amazing. The subject matter was fantastic. This story is set in the post-apocalyptic period. The Rapture had occurred as predicted in The Bible and all the most devote worshippers of Jesus have been taken up to the Heaven while the nonbelievers and the damned have been left on earth to brave hurricanes, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions.

This book basically revolves around Sam, a half demon who had been in the care of a priest Hikari and raised along with his daughter Aimi. He is trained by his sensei in the art of sword fighting from an early age. It has been told earlier in the story that Sam is the chosen one to fight the Antichrist. What I really liked about Sam was his ability to resist temptation. Being a half demon, he is constantly subjected to temptation and give into his true nature. But no, Sam is determined to let his human goodness prevail and sets out to help the innocents left behind from the clutches of the demons that plague the Earth at night.

I loved the writing style of the author. The way story goes back and forth between past(focusing on Sam's life and his training for his mission) and back to the present, where he is in the middle of slaying demons and fighting for the good of humankind. Reading about his past was a little heartbreaking because you can see Sam's love for his Sensei and especially how much he loved Aimi. The thought of him alone and sad after they were taken up to Heaven when the Rapture occurred was devastating to read.

The author definitely has a knack for writing action sequences descriptively. The fighting scenes were lively that gave an impression of been happening right there in front of you. Anyone and everyone who likes action in their books are going to enjoy it.

I think Phillip Simpson has written a very interesting and engaging story. All the Biblical references that were made gave credibility to the story. Overall, good job!
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May 17, 2012 Cindy rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 2012, young-adult, paranormal, post-apocalyptic

Rapture is a demon-filled road-trip through Hell.

After the apocalypse, Sam is on his own to try to assist what is left of humanity with the demon problem on their hands. Luckily, Sam has been training his entire life for just this - he's an expert swordsman and fighter. Additionally, his demonic side has given him a couple of extra "gifts" that assist with his journey. Along the way, Sam meets a few people that he's able to befriend, meanwhile stumbling across confusing spectacles in the middle...more

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Feb 10, 2012 Avry15 rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: action, supernatural, demons, reviewed, young-adult

originally appeared on:Bookshelf Confessions

I have always read books about raptures..but never before I encountered one, where the story was set after the rapture.. and my verdict is it’s really great!

The cover is oh –so eye-catching… if ever I’ll pass in the bookstore, I’ll definitely grab this book.. what with the flames, the hooded boy with scorching eyes looking back at you, plus swords…lol… Probably the best cover concerning the theme I’ve ever laid my eyes into.

For me, this is another ligh...more originally appeared on:Bookshelf Confessions

I have always read books about raptures..but never before I encountered one, where the story was set after the rapture.. and my verdict is it’s really great!

The cover is oh –so eye-catching… if ever I’ll pass in the bookstore, I’ll definitely grab this book.. what with the flames, the hooded boy with scorching eyes looking back at you, plus swords…lol… Probably the best cover concerning the theme I’ve ever laid my eyes into.

For me, this is another light regarding heroes.. a hero who is not perfect at all, someone who has the tendency of making big mistakes, giving in to temptations, but still has a strong will power.

Mr. Simpson made a wonderful job in giving us glimpses of both Sam’s past and present.. It’s good that we not only know what it is he’s facing now, but how he grow up and about the past before he was even born. It made us see who Sam really is…

It’s a good mix of Japanese principles and culture, and of course Christian beliefs… Fast-paced and engrossing, I find myself facing demons all around and learning to trust other people just like Sam did..

The battle for me, is more like an inner turmoil for Sam, it should have been really hard to be thrust in a fate, you didn’t do anything to deserve..and even if there are things it would seem easier to give in to his true nature, but remembering his master’s word, he continues to do anything for the greater good. Sam is a very likable character… I feel in love with him instantly, even with his horns and inhuman eyes.:D

Although this book, is based on the prophecies of New Testament, basically Revelations, it has nothing to do that would drive non-believers away.. It’s a book for all readers out there who enjoyed a bunch of actions and demons..:)

Mr. Simpson presented a lot of twist and turns in the story, that even if you think where you’re going, you’re suddenly surprised by the exciting happenings. He wrote the book, with so much details that it’s easy to picture Sam with his swords, fighting all those demons and saving the innocent people left on earth.

I also loved the verses in every beginning of the chapter, it’s enlightening and a mirror of what lies ahead… actually, it’s in the end part of the book that I begin to realize it’s a trilogy, with all the climax happening, it just couldn’t fit into a one-chapter end.. So, here I am, left wanting for more!.. I’m overly excited about the next book, and how Sam’s life would go…

Overall, Rapture, is a good-starting book, filled with actions and vivid descriptions of the post-apocalyptic world… Good job Mr. Simpson..:D
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Jan 28, 2013 The Novel Lasses Alexandria_Lissa rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: 4stars, author_requested_review, blogged, book_1_series, challenge_2013_self_published, challenge_2013_tbr, demon, magic, mythology, paranormal, read_in_2013, read_in_january_, reviewed, romance, tear_jerker, want_signed_copy, angel, apocalyptic

Little Lass Muses

Genre: Young Adult, Apocalyptic, Angels, Demons, Paranormal, Fantasy, Romance,

Cover: Separate we're delicious together we're yummy!

Thumbs: 3 Out 4 Up

Book # 7

Overall: It can really make think, what if?

Characters: Several were strong, some supportive while another made you wonder why. Then it hits you.

Plot: My mom is crazy about Apocalyptic movies and stuff. It a subject that she doesn't understand so I've seen and real a lot. This is the second book on the s...more

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Dec 26, 2011 Ning rated it 3 of 5 stars

As I am reading the blurb from Goodreads after I’ve read the book, I realize there’re spoilers in there. If you’ve read the blurb, then there’s really nothing surprising that you’ll find. Basically the blurb has told most of the story. I guess that’s why I found this book kind of slow and hard to get into at the beginning. I know most of what was going on so I was impatient to get on with the story.

First of all, let me say that the fight scenes are awesome! The author really did think those out...more As I am reading the blurb from Goodreads after I’ve read the book, I realize there’re spoilers in there. If you’ve read the blurb, then there’s really nothing surprising that you’ll find. Basically the blurb has told most of the story. I guess that’s why I found this book kind of slow and hard to get into at the beginning. I know most of what was going on so I was impatient to get on with the story.

First of all, let me say that the fight scenes are awesome! The author really did think those out through very well, with each move planned. Yet, while I enjoyed it for maybe the first two scenes, it got repetitive after a while. While the moves are not the same, fight scenes are fight scenes. It read more like a screenplay with everything planned out. But the good thing was there were fewer fight scenes later in the book, so as the pace picked up, the fight scenes were much more interesting as well.

My big problems with the book were the characters.

Sam is left behind and must find his way to Los Angeles to reach his destiny. What the destiny is you learn very early in the book. But because the book is written with flashbacks every other chapter, it takes Sam forever to get anywhere. It’s a great way to find out Sam’s past though and to learn about him. However, I didn’t find his past very interesting.

I didn’t like Sam as a protagonist. Yeah I felt bad for him and all. After all, it’s not his fault he was born a demon. Why should he be left alone while his loved ones ascend to Heaven? But he got angry too often for my liking, and he ran away every time something he dislikes comes up. Also, I felt this book would’ve been better if Sam was older. Since there’re so many flashbacks, we see Sam as a young kid, but he didn’t read like a young kid. Instead, his thoughts and feelings are pretty much the same, so even though he’s only like six in the chapter, he still read like he’s eighteen.

As for the other characters, they were one-dimensional. Hikari was just the teacher/foster-father. Aimi was that happy girl. Grace the girl they saved. Joshua was the friend. None of them were interesting. I cared more about Satan and the plans than I cared about any of them.

Anyway, the pace finally picked up around the middle of the book. At that point, I couldn’t put the book down. I guess I did care about Sam at least. Otherwise the last bit wouldn’t be as interesting. I really love the world building for this book. The desolate landscape and blood red moon all contributed to a very lonely and last-man-on-earth kind of atmosphere. Also, for such a premise, the book wasn’t too religious or preachy (as I feared at the start), but everything was explained very clearly. All the questions were answered – like where the demons came from. In the end, I really liked the concept of the story and the world, just not the characters.

Rating: 3/5
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May 15, 2012 Kristina Circelli rated it 4 of 5 stars

Although I don't believe in them, books/movies of Heaven and Hell, angles versus demons, are often my favorite (think "Legion" and "Constantine"). So when I picked up "Rapture," I was hoping for another exciting tale into a world that fascinates me.

The book didn't disappoint. "Rapture" is exciting, has interesting characters, and takes readers into a future that is both frightening and intriguing. I like that Sam isn't the typical perfect male specimen who gets all the girls and can do no wrong...more

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About Phillip W. Simpson

I'm an author of mostly children's books - both fiction and non-fiction.

Currently, I am a full-time elementary (primary) school teacher, a full-time writer, a full-time husband and a full-time father. Before becoming a writer, I tried several other career options. I joined the army for a bit, gained a Masters in Archaeology, owned a comic shop, became obsessed with martial arts and oriental weapo...more

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Quotes from Rapture

“He sank to his knees, absolutely full of despair and sadness. For a long time, droplets of blood continued to fall into his lap.” — 2 people liked it

“I saw you fight last night. You sure have got some fancy moves with those swords of yours. Haven’t seen anyone move like that, well, ever, and I was in the Special Forces.” — 2 people liked it

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Rapture (Rapture Trilogy #1)

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