Deadwater: Post-Apocalyptic Disaster Saga of an American Family Surviving a World-Changing Algae Bloom

by Riley Miller, Grace Hamilton

They fought to escape. Now they have to survive the fallout.

The forest was supposed to be a refuge. But when the Wellspring cult discovers their hidden cabin—and brings armed allies with them—Hazel, Caleb, and their found family are forced to make a devastating abandon their sanctuary or be destroyed.

On the run once again, hunted through a toxic wilderness, the group is exhausted, fractured, and running out of water. Their only lead is a trail of cult "waystations" that might hold the key to survival... or a trap waiting to snap shut.

And as desperation mounts, so do the What’s left of the world beyond the trees? And how do you hold on to hope when even safety can be poisoned?

With the cult closing in and safety within reach, the final confrontation will demand everything they have—and cost more than any of them are ready to lose.

345 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 5, 2025

Reviews

[Krystal · Rating 3 out of 5]

A fitting way for the four (5 counting the raccoon) to end out the story. I do however feel like there should have been an epilogue of some sort. Like 1 year later, then 5 years later, 10 years etc. How do these four continue their journey into a very different world than what Emily and Bash knew and a completely new world for Hazel and Caleb. There would be so many difficulties that it’s hard to imagine.

Also Emily. By the end of Part II I was getting annoyed at her. By the end of Part III, I was pretty much done with her. She wouldn’t leave how to use a gun even though every one’s lives and safety depending on them being able to protect themselves and each other. And her constant glass half full approach to Hank was unsettling. I really feel like she made Hazel out to be some cray kid who didn’t understand things when Hazel knew EXACTLY who Hank was and who he would always be. Part of the reason the ending happened the way it did is because Emily was the weak one of the group. Eight year old Caleb was stronger than Emily in some aspects (obviously not physically, but you get the point). I’m really don’t feel like Emily was a good match for Bash or the family - almost like, well, she’s here and the best we’ve got! I mean good thing she found a microscope, again, after leaving one behind but sheesh.

Part III has 34 chapters in it.

I’m giving this part 3 stars just because of Emily.

Overall I’d give the book a 4 star rating. Lots going on but with a definite look at the appeal of found family, forgiveness, becoming your own person, and keeping your moral compass.

[Kat M · Rating 5 out of 5]

this was a strong third entry in the Toxic Tides series, it had that element that I was looking for and was invested in what was happening. It had that post-apocalyptic element that I wanted and enjoyed the overall concept in this world. It continued the story perfectly and the characters continued to feel like they belonged in this universe. Grace Hamilton has a strong writing style and was glad I got to read this.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Robert Foland · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Deadwater: Post-Apocalyptic Disaster Saga of an American Family Surviving a World-Changing Algae Bloom (Toxic Tides Book 3)" delivers an exhilarating conclusion to this well-crafted series. The characters are incredible, and the action keeps you hooked until the very last scene. It's a truly satisfying read.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jeanne Richardson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've read a lot of books written by Grace Hamilton; she is one of my favorite authors. I can’t wait to read more of her books.

This is the third book in the Toxic Tides Series; the story continues from the previous book and needs to be read in order.