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The Long Fall of Night #1
The Long Fall of Night
In a flash, everything changes.
When NYU student Asher Caine’s uncle calls to warn him something big is coming, he has no idea it will be so devastating. Not even years of training can prepare him for what he's about to face. The only plan he has is to get his sister and nephew across country to safety, whatever it takes.
The darkness is full of potential. For good or evil, only time will tell.
Elliot Davenport isn’t about to let his Chemistry lab partner leave him behind, though he’s never done a spontaneous thing in his life. Ash is mysterious, aloof, and so damned sexy, Elliot can’t get the guy out of his head. But his crush takes a backseat as the gravity of the situation becomes clear: the eastern two-thirds of the United States has gone dark.
What happens when all the rules change in a split second?
200 million people are without access to sustainable food and water, let alone coffee and the Internet. Facing the worst humanitarian crisis the western world has ever seen, the government calls the military to step in. The entire military.
The soldiers of Team Shockwave are tasked with evacuating civilians to the safety of refugee camps, and then patrolling the new border between the East and West. Shockwave are on the front lines and the fate of an entire nation rests on them.
Welcome to the long fall of night…
When NYU student Asher Caine’s uncle calls to warn him something big is coming, he has no idea it will be so devastating. Not even years of training can prepare him for what he's about to face. The only plan he has is to get his sister and nephew across country to safety, whatever it takes.
The darkness is full of potential. For good or evil, only time will tell.
Elliot Davenport isn’t about to let his Chemistry lab partner leave him behind, though he’s never done a spontaneous thing in his life. Ash is mysterious, aloof, and so damned sexy, Elliot can’t get the guy out of his head. But his crush takes a backseat as the gravity of the situation becomes clear: the eastern two-thirds of the United States has gone dark.
What happens when all the rules change in a split second?
200 million people are without access to sustainable food and water, let alone coffee and the Internet. Facing the worst humanitarian crisis the western world has ever seen, the government calls the military to step in. The entire military.
The soldiers of Team Shockwave are tasked with evacuating civilians to the safety of refugee camps, and then patrolling the new border between the East and West. Shockwave are on the front lines and the fate of an entire nation rests on them.
Welcome to the long fall of night…
557 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 17, 2015
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421 people want to read
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July 18, 2015DNF @10%, no rating.
It wasn't a sub-genre issue. It wasn't the writing either, which I thought was good. I was simply bored out of my ever lovin' mind. Having started this book on its release day, I thought it'd be best to throw in the towel because even after taking a break, it didn't pick up for me. I just don't want to force myself struggling through a story I don't enjoy. #sorry
This being said, I'm still a huge fan of AJ's Power Exchange series.
Power Exchange
Safeword
Consent
Onwards…
It wasn't a sub-genre issue. It wasn't the writing either, which I thought was good. I was simply bored out of my ever lovin' mind. Having started this book on its release day, I thought it'd be best to throw in the towel because even after taking a break, it didn't pick up for me. I just don't want to force myself struggling through a story I don't enjoy. #sorry
This being said, I'm still a huge fan of AJ's Power Exchange series.
Power Exchange
Safeword
Consent
Onwards…
September 18, 2015
3.5*
Here's my lazy review, starting with a lazy pic:
In case you're wondering my usual answer to that question is "lie down and do nothing." Just so you know.
The Long Fall of Night is a good read. (Though I can never remember the title.) I'm a total commitmentphobe when it comes to long books (unless it's fanfiction and involves Derek Hale & his amazing eyebrows ) but this one went fairly quickly. Though I'm not sure if I would've even attempted this book, or finished it, if it weren't for the ladies in our BR. Even though I rarely felt bored, I found if I put it down I could walk away from it fairly easily. I didn't feel this intense need to read.
I can tell Rose did a lot of research and put a lot of work into making this book as realistic as possible. When it came to the electricity going out in half the US due to a terrorist attack anyway. But I could've used a little less reality and a little more story. And a little more reality when it came to that story--never did I doubt that our favorite characters would survive.
Um, what else? I'm tired and can't remember what the fuck I'm on about. Oh, right. This books made me massively grateful I live on the West Coast. All you people in the East are apparently fucked 'cause of Washington, DC. Yeah, those fuckers.
Now what? Oh, yes, you know what this book really needed? ZOMBIES!!
For actual coherent reviews, read the ones by my buddies R *A Reader Obsessed*, Borderstar, Otila, Meags, Maygirl7, Jenni Lea & Tina_K. Thanks, ladies!
Here's my lazy review, starting with a lazy pic:
In case you're wondering my usual answer to that question is "lie down and do nothing." Just so you know.
The Long Fall of Night is a good read. (Though I can never remember the title.) I'm a total commitmentphobe when it comes to long books (unless it's fanfiction and involves Derek Hale & his amazing eyebrows ) but this one went fairly quickly. Though I'm not sure if I would've even attempted this book, or finished it, if it weren't for the ladies in our BR. Even though I rarely felt bored, I found if I put it down I could walk away from it fairly easily. I didn't feel this intense need to read.
I can tell Rose did a lot of research and put a lot of work into making this book as realistic as possible. When it came to the electricity going out in half the US due to a terrorist attack anyway. But I could've used a little less reality and a little more story. And a little more reality when it came to that story--never did I doubt that our favorite characters would survive.
Um, what else? I'm tired and can't remember what the fuck I'm on about. Oh, right. This books made me massively grateful I live on the West Coast. All you people in the East are apparently fucked 'cause of Washington, DC. Yeah, those fuckers.
Now what? Oh, yes, you know what this book really needed? ZOMBIES!!
For actual coherent reviews, read the ones by my buddies R *A Reader Obsessed*, Borderstar, Otila, Meags, Maygirl7, Jenni Lea & Tina_K. Thanks, ladies!
September 23, 2015
I love the post-apocalyptic genre. The lack of zombies is unfortunate but the fact that this almost 500 page book didn't feel long is a testament to it's entertainment value. I enjoyed the journey it took me on and I'll probably read the sequel. Maybe.
My problem with this book is that I think it was too ambitious taking on too much and ultimately falling short. The multiple plot lines didn't flow and felt underdeveloped. The part of the story revolving around the military felt more like a distraction than anything else. I don't feel like it served a purpose to this story at all. If it was there to provide answers as to the why and the how of it all it wasn't at all necessary. The MCs had access to a satellite phone and therefore were able to get information about everything that's going.
Which brings me to another problem--too much time was spent on explanations of what, how and why the blackout happened. The main characters have all kinds of information before the blackout that they're somewhat ready to prepare. Then they have enough information after that they're never completely in the dark(pun intended). It made the story somewhat unrelatable. How many of us Joe Schmoes will have that much information when the shit hits the fan? How many will be that prepared?
Finally, my biggest problem was that there was never any real fear or urgency to the story. They have days to prepare and stock up on supplies because they have info no one else has. When they break in to a sporting goods store for said supplies, it's ridiculously easy and suspense free. And none of the core characters are ever in any danger of losing their lives because apparently the apocalypse is only a hazard to complete douchebags that will leave no emotional impact when they're gone.
An awesome Buddy Read with some awesome ladies!
June 8, 2017
3.5 Stars
Bring on the apocalypse!
Per the blurb, this is basically two stories. The main one follows Ash and Elliot as they make their way across the United States to what they hope is safety. The other showcases a military team enforcing martial law to reign in the chaos.
This was a stark, realistic slap of cold reality should our nation or world ever be plunged into darkness. It lays out plausible fears and obstacles as societal structure and laws crumble.
I will say I was pretty much anxious the entire time reading this. Take that as both good and bad - regardless, at least I was entertained. The action and emotions were compelling enough to make me speed through this almost 500 page behemoth quite quickly. It also had enough romance and feels to satisfy (though I would always gladly take more).
Overall a decent look at the evolving relationship between Ash and Elliot amongst the toughest time of their lives. They learn a lot about each other and themselves when faced with life threatening situations over and over. (It also doesn't hurt that in the parallel storyline involving the military, there's another m/m relationship brewing.) I'm invested enough that the promise of a sequel is substantial incentive for me to continue following this crazy, scary adventure.
It's also enough to make me stock up on supplies and ready a bug out bag! Kidding, not kidding.
Fab BR with the girls! You know who you are!
Bring on the apocalypse!
Per the blurb, this is basically two stories. The main one follows Ash and Elliot as they make their way across the United States to what they hope is safety. The other showcases a military team enforcing martial law to reign in the chaos.
This was a stark, realistic slap of cold reality should our nation or world ever be plunged into darkness. It lays out plausible fears and obstacles as societal structure and laws crumble.
I will say I was pretty much anxious the entire time reading this. Take that as both good and bad - regardless, at least I was entertained. The action and emotions were compelling enough to make me speed through this almost 500 page behemoth quite quickly. It also had enough romance and feels to satisfy (though I would always gladly take more).
Overall a decent look at the evolving relationship between Ash and Elliot amongst the toughest time of their lives. They learn a lot about each other and themselves when faced with life threatening situations over and over. (It also doesn't hurt that in the parallel storyline involving the military, there's another m/m relationship brewing.) I'm invested enough that the promise of a sequel is substantial incentive for me to continue following this crazy, scary adventure.
It's also enough to make me stock up on supplies and ready a bug out bag! Kidding, not kidding.
Fab BR with the girls! You know who you are!
October 27, 2015
4 Stars
This story was quite reminiscent of the show Revolution - in so much as the “apocalyptic event” revolves around the widespread loss of power and the crippling ramifications this has on the functioning of modern society. But where Revolution was an abysmal disaster of epic proportions (IMO), this book was thoroughly enjoyable, if not a tad lengthy.
Although I enjoyed this story as a whole, it took me an extremely long time to warm to most of the characters. With the exception of Elliot (who I loved from the start), I had issues with almost everyone who featured heavily within this story. Ash confounded my overall enjoyment of the plot for a good three quarters of the story (he won me over eventually , but the fact that I spent a good deal of time complaining about his arrogant and often callous behaviour, left me unimpressed). And I can't even mention his sister Charlotte without going into a ragey fit. But I probably shouldn’t complain about characters like Ash or Charlotte, when there were real douche canoes afoot! I’m looking at you Jason and Tim! . I loved the dog though, so there’s that!
The concept wasn’t wholly original, but that didn’t bother me in the least. I thought the combination of duel storylines was well executed and I really enjoyed the whole “road trip” feel this story has going for it (regardless of the fact they were mostly walking across the country – semantics). As a first-in-series book, I was left kind of baffled as to where this story could go from here, but I’ll eagerly read any sequel to find out!
Stories with post-apocalyptic themes are quickly becoming a favourite genre of mine. As scary and devastating as these types of stories usually are, I generally find them fascinating. I like being confronted by ideas and situations that I’ve never had to face before, and I like being forced to consider what I would do under similar circumstances. But if we’re being honest, I’d probably be dead pretty quick – whether from brutal death by savages (likely), or simply from suffering of a broken heart from loss of internet access (more likely) – I’m pretty sure I wouldn’t be long for this world should any kind of apocalypse present itself.
This story was quite reminiscent of the show Revolution - in so much as the “apocalyptic event” revolves around the widespread loss of power and the crippling ramifications this has on the functioning of modern society. But where Revolution was an abysmal disaster of epic proportions (IMO), this book was thoroughly enjoyable, if not a tad lengthy.
Although I enjoyed this story as a whole, it took me an extremely long time to warm to most of the characters. With the exception of Elliot (who I loved from the start), I had issues with almost everyone who featured heavily within this story. Ash confounded my overall enjoyment of the plot for a good three quarters of the story (he won me over eventually , but the fact that I spent a good deal of time complaining about his arrogant and often callous behaviour, left me unimpressed). And I can't even mention his sister Charlotte without going into a ragey fit. But I probably shouldn’t complain about characters like Ash or Charlotte, when there were real douche canoes afoot! I’m looking at you Jason and Tim! . I loved the dog though, so there’s that!
The concept wasn’t wholly original, but that didn’t bother me in the least. I thought the combination of duel storylines was well executed and I really enjoyed the whole “road trip” feel this story has going for it (regardless of the fact they were mostly walking across the country – semantics). As a first-in-series book, I was left kind of baffled as to where this story could go from here, but I’ll eagerly read any sequel to find out!
Stories with post-apocalyptic themes are quickly becoming a favourite genre of mine. As scary and devastating as these types of stories usually are, I generally find them fascinating. I like being confronted by ideas and situations that I’ve never had to face before, and I like being forced to consider what I would do under similar circumstances. But if we’re being honest, I’d probably be dead pretty quick – whether from brutal death by savages (likely), or simply from suffering of a broken heart from loss of internet access (more likely) – I’m pretty sure I wouldn’t be long for this world should any kind of apocalypse present itself.
July 3, 2015
4.5 stars from me, for this very promising start to a new dystopian series from AJ, where a terrorist attack has left the Eastern side of the US without power and the problems that emanate from there. A hugely ambitious project to undertake, loads of info to gather (and take in) and as she herself admits, lots of helpers along the way.
I did find the story slow going in parts, but didn't skim anything. I loved Elliot (well, who wouldn't??), wasn't too keen on Ash (but with the weight of the world on his shoulders, why wouldn't he be an arsehole some of the time??) but he did grow on me. I did HATE the constant arguing with his sister though. The only characters I can say with certainty that I didn't like will not be appearing in the upcoming books (phew!!).
I would just add that I felt Ash and Elliot, but Ash in particular, seemed to be a lot older in the way they thought, spoke and acted than 21, they knew so much about everything and thinking about the 21 year olds I know, none of them would have had the nous to do half the stuff Ash did, or speak with authority on practically every subject under the sun... may be I just know immature 21 year olds, I don't know??
September 21, 2015
This sounds like it's right up my alley. I believe I have a need...
*************************************************************
I really enjoyed this book. I love me a good post-apocalyptic story, especially when there are no zombies. Ash and Elliott are fuck buddies who end up together when the lights go out. They, along with some others, travel across the country, trying to reach the West Coast where the lights are still on. I enjoyed their journey more than anything. I am eager to read the next in the series to see where it will go from here.
June 4, 2016
This is an excellent sci-fi m/m in which college student Ash and his group struggle to survive after an electromagnetic pulse turns off all the electricity west of the Rockies. A compulsive read but only book one of a series so as yet incomplete.
"If you know I don't need anyone, and you shouldn't be spontaneous, why did you come?"
I want you so much my soul aches.
"Because watching you walk away was worse."
"If you know I don't need anyone, and you shouldn't be spontaneous, why did you come?"
I want you so much my soul aches.
"Because watching you walk away was worse."
September 16, 2015
3.5 stars
I may change my rating, as I can’t decide whether to round up or down at this point!
This is a loooooong book – approaching 500 pages, I think it’s the longest thing I’ve read this year and so looking back, it seems like there’s been loads that has happened since the beginning to think about.
There were a number of things I didn’t like, wasn’t sure about or thought were predictable and stereotypical…but at the same time I really did enjoy being immersed in this story. Although I found the beginning a little slow going initially (in fact I read the sample, which is pretty long in itself and actually put it aside with a “maybe” to begin with), I flew through it once it got going. So I’m really glad I picked it up again this week as a result of a buddy read.
I had a love/hate relationship with Ash for the majority of the book. I liked Elliot and the way he grew as a person over the course of the story. I generally had a major dislike thing going on with nearly ALL the secondary characters for one reason or another!
One of the nice things to see was Elliot developing his own self-worth and feeling useful/valuable despite his self-doubt early on. At one point he is comforting Ash and its probably the first time I really noticed he was changing, becoming more confident and able to be strong for other people.
The author uses quotes to start each Chapter and I thought this described Elliot’s transformation: “Character, like a photograph, develops in darkness.”
Ash is pretty cool initially and I did like him most of the time – but he’s kind of stereotypical in that he’s tough externally, makes people think that he doesn’t need anyone else, feels like he has to be responsible for everything etc… but even he changes somewhat through the story as he starts to realise he doesn’t have to have all the answers and he can let people in:
“We’re all out of our element here. You’re the most prepared, but it’s okay if you’re afraid, Ash. It doesn’t make you less of a man if the end of the world as we know it scares the shit out of you. It makes you normal. Human, even.”
However, he does irritate me quite a bit when he drags out his whole thing about not wanting to care about anyone so he doesn’t have to hurt if/when they are taken away. I get his reasons, which are explained in the story, but still
Oh and I must just mention that I had been thinking that Jason was such a stereotypical idiot and then suddenly in Ch 15 there’s this quote from the book where Elliott says, “Jason’s like a caricature of a villain.” Funny the author acknowledges he is purposely like this?
I was quite surprised to find a whole secondary story running through this, centred on the Shockwave team. It shouldn’t really be a surprise due to the mention in the blurb, but whereas I assumed Ash & Elliott would perhaps come across these guys, you actually read from the POV of members of the shockwave team a few times through the book.
I had mixed feelings on this – the very first time we see from their POV in Chapter 5, we were taken out of the main story and for the whole Chapter we got introduced to what the army were doing. We also get a small m/f element relevant to the Shockwave team, but the sex was fade to black for those who don’t want to read m/f. I did get quite confused with all the names of the characters we got introduced to in this chapter and had to check back to work out who everyone was. Unfortunately, on this first introduction, despite finding it quite cool to get this extra perspective on what was happening in the country, I honestly felt like I didn’t really care too much about what was going on with the team…I just wanted to get back to Ash & Elliot’s part of the story.
However, as the story developed it was actually pretty good to see a few bits from their POV, and there was also that I wasn’t expecting that! Unfortunately we didn’t get that much depth in this part of the story but it was like having a second story woven through the main book, which kept things interesting. The only problem is that by the end, I was kind of feeling that we almost had too much to focus on here and so ultimately we didn’t really get a very good resolution to *anything*.
There were a few things I was confused about – for anyone that has read this, did you think the same? Any thoughts about these bits?
Some musings over the ending: Really not sure what to think about the way things ended here...there’s obviously more story to tell in a couple of respects, but a whole series?
Overall: mixed bag leaving me with all sorts of questions in my mind but ultimately I did enjoy the story and read it quite avidly after the initial slow going intro. I will probably check out the sequel when its out to find out what’s in store next, but I’m not certain it’s going to be a must read.
I may change my rating, as I can’t decide whether to round up or down at this point!
This is a loooooong book – approaching 500 pages, I think it’s the longest thing I’ve read this year and so looking back, it seems like there’s been loads that has happened since the beginning to think about.
There were a number of things I didn’t like, wasn’t sure about or thought were predictable and stereotypical…but at the same time I really did enjoy being immersed in this story. Although I found the beginning a little slow going initially (in fact I read the sample, which is pretty long in itself and actually put it aside with a “maybe” to begin with), I flew through it once it got going. So I’m really glad I picked it up again this week as a result of a buddy read.
I had a love/hate relationship with Ash for the majority of the book. I liked Elliot and the way he grew as a person over the course of the story. I generally had a major dislike thing going on with nearly ALL the secondary characters for one reason or another!
One of the nice things to see was Elliot developing his own self-worth and feeling useful/valuable despite his self-doubt early on. At one point he is comforting Ash and its probably the first time I really noticed he was changing, becoming more confident and able to be strong for other people.
The author uses quotes to start each Chapter and I thought this described Elliot’s transformation: “Character, like a photograph, develops in darkness.”
Ash is pretty cool initially and I did like him most of the time – but he’s kind of stereotypical in that he’s tough externally, makes people think that he doesn’t need anyone else, feels like he has to be responsible for everything etc… but even he changes somewhat through the story as he starts to realise he doesn’t have to have all the answers and he can let people in:
“We’re all out of our element here. You’re the most prepared, but it’s okay if you’re afraid, Ash. It doesn’t make you less of a man if the end of the world as we know it scares the shit out of you. It makes you normal. Human, even.”
However, he does irritate me quite a bit when he drags out his whole thing about not wanting to care about anyone so he doesn’t have to hurt if/when they are taken away. I get his reasons, which are explained in the story, but still
Oh and I must just mention that I had been thinking that Jason was such a stereotypical idiot and then suddenly in Ch 15 there’s this quote from the book where Elliott says, “Jason’s like a caricature of a villain.” Funny the author acknowledges he is purposely like this?
I was quite surprised to find a whole secondary story running through this, centred on the Shockwave team. It shouldn’t really be a surprise due to the mention in the blurb, but whereas I assumed Ash & Elliott would perhaps come across these guys, you actually read from the POV of members of the shockwave team a few times through the book.
I had mixed feelings on this – the very first time we see from their POV in Chapter 5, we were taken out of the main story and for the whole Chapter we got introduced to what the army were doing. We also get a small m/f element relevant to the Shockwave team, but the sex was fade to black for those who don’t want to read m/f. I did get quite confused with all the names of the characters we got introduced to in this chapter and had to check back to work out who everyone was. Unfortunately, on this first introduction, despite finding it quite cool to get this extra perspective on what was happening in the country, I honestly felt like I didn’t really care too much about what was going on with the team…I just wanted to get back to Ash & Elliot’s part of the story.
However, as the story developed it was actually pretty good to see a few bits from their POV, and there was also that I wasn’t expecting that! Unfortunately we didn’t get that much depth in this part of the story but it was like having a second story woven through the main book, which kept things interesting. The only problem is that by the end, I was kind of feeling that we almost had too much to focus on here and so ultimately we didn’t really get a very good resolution to *anything*.
There were a few things I was confused about – for anyone that has read this, did you think the same? Any thoughts about these bits?
Some musings over the ending: Really not sure what to think about the way things ended here...there’s obviously more story to tell in a couple of respects, but a whole series?
Overall: mixed bag leaving me with all sorts of questions in my mind but ultimately I did enjoy the story and read it quite avidly after the initial slow going intro. I will probably check out the sequel when its out to find out what’s in store next, but I’m not certain it’s going to be a must read.
July 9, 2015
Pretty cool premise. And relatable to me at the moment. We're having major power cuts periodically where I live due to grid failures and downed reactors, and, like okay, they only last 2 hours every few days. But what if the power never came back on? Real fear there, guys. So that I liked. But the rest of it fell solidly between a 3 and a 4 star rating. I disliked almost all the characters. Except Brian. And maybe the dog. So am going with the lower rating for that reason. But I'll still pick the sequel.when it's out.
Want to read
June 6, 2015Not the biggest fan of this author, but God, if this story doesn't sound fantastic ._. So fuck it all, I may give it a chance.
The world needs more darkness. Or something like that.
The world needs more darkness. Or something like that.
February 26, 2016
When half of the US is suddenly plunged into darkness, Ash is forewarned enough to have a few things prepared. All he needs is a car to get him to his sister’s house in upstate New York, and from there, to Seattle to his conspiracy theorist/prepper Uncle Marvin. Lucky for him, his college lab partner, and friends with benefits, Elliot has a ride, and since Elliot feels a little more than friends towards Ash he can’t think of any reason not to go with him. Unfortunately their adventures start off badly, and don’t seem to be getting better. Coupled with their budding relationship, Elliot’s health problems, and some homophobic stragglers, and their survival becomes more and more difficult as they get closer to the border between dark and light.
Check out my review by clicking the button below.
Check out my review by clicking the button below.
July 25, 2015
ARC of The Long Fall of Night provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. This review has been cross-posted at Reviews by Jessewave.
Before I get into the story, I want to say how much I love the cover for this book. It is gorgeous and a bit ominous. It's one of those covers that would have prompted me to pick up the book and read it, even knowing nothing about the story or author. Some covers do that to me and I love it when it pays off with a good story, too.
The Long Fall of Night explores what might happen to society if a terrorist attack, in the form of an electromagnetic pulse (EMP), were to take out the power grids for more than half of the United States. I don't know how plausible a scenario like this is, but the thought of it sure is unsettling. And like many post-apocalyptic story lines, The Long Fall of Night isn't really about the disaster, at all - that’s just the vehicle - but rather about how people deal with it. Disasters like the one depicted in this book bring out the very best and the worst of humanity and we see it all here in vivid color. In The Long Fall of Night there are over 200 million people suddenly without power, clean water, food and long distance communication. Mass panic and chaos are inevitable.
This is a long book, almost 500 pages, and the cast of characters is large. The story is cut into two story lines; the main story is of Ash and Elliot's refugee group and the other, Team Shockwave of the US Army, who are tasked with finding civilians and sending them to disaster centers where they can get food, water and shelter. And, while there was a lot to keep up with, I didn't find it terribly difficult to do so. I found the characters interesting, and I was engaged in their progress. And, though the story was sometimes slow, I didn't feel the urge to skip or skim. There is a lot of build up within each group as everyone tries to find their place in this brave new world.
Asher “Ash” Caine is a college student who is definitely more than he seems. He goes out of his way to look like a bit of a bad boy - tattoos, muscular build, and an 'I don't give a crap' attitude. He's never let himself get close to people because he has a bit of an abandonment complex. Both his parents died when he was young and his crazy "uncle" Martin has filled his head with all kinds of conspiracy theories. So, Ash is a bit of an outsider. The closest thing he has to a friend is his chemistry lab partner, Elliot, but Ash doesn't really consider them friends and certainly not boyfriends. Whatever they are, though, they have the 'with benefits' designation. Ash is lying to himself, though. He cares for Elliot a lot more than he lets on.
Elliot Davenport comes from money. His father owns an oil company, so Elliot has never had to fend for himself in any situation. However, that silver spoon had its drawbacks. Elliot has always been kept on a short leash, and his childhood wasn't filled with playgrounds and sleepovers. He's had a tremendous amount of pressure to succeed and be the perfect son to take over his father's company. He's crazy brilliant and socially awkward and in love with the emotionally unavailable Ash.
Ash was warned, by his Uncle Martin, to prep a go bag and be ready to bug-out of New York City if anything unusual happens. He is to go get his sister and nephew and head to Seattle. When the lights go out, Ash is with Elliot and Elliot comes with. But convincing him (and his sister) that they need to travel across the country is no easy task. But they must do something before chaos breaks out everywhere. Plus, Elliot's dad sends a trusted man, Brian, to get Elliot. And Brian agrees with Ash that they all need to get the hell off the east coast.
When they start their journey, it's six adults and a 10 year old boy and all the supplies they could salvage all packed in a minivan. Easy peasy, right? Nope. Their journey is fraught with tragedy and unexpected situations and for more than 1000 miles, they walked and camped and walked some more. They hunted their food and just kept going. And they meet people along the way and gain more travelers as they try to make their way to Seattle.
Interspersed in the story, we get a perspective of the disaster from the view of a team of Army soldiers called Shockwave. This team is headed up by a badass woman, Sargent Vanessa "Ness" Middler, who is very no-nonsense. She puts her career first in her life and her team is her family. Shockwave is one of the many teams doing sweeps of cities and neighborhoods to get stranded citizens to aid. After that, they are essentially on border patrol. They can't just let 200 million people all go to the west coast or there would be even more chaos.
Within Shockwave, there is a GFY pairing of Corporal Chris West and Corporal Donovan "Donnie" Scanlon. They've been best friends since boot camp seven years ago and Chris suddenly find himself fantasizing about Donnie and so we get to see them work though that while they fight, then fuck out their tension.
I am very happy to say that I enjoyed this book a lot and I cannot wait for the next installment. The ending isn't a cliffhanger, but there is obviously more story to tell. We still don't know who is responsible for the EMP and I want to see a lot more of Ash and Elliot, as well as see how things play out between Chris and Donnie. I think that The Long Fall of Night is an excellent start to this dystopian series.
Before I get into the story, I want to say how much I love the cover for this book. It is gorgeous and a bit ominous. It's one of those covers that would have prompted me to pick up the book and read it, even knowing nothing about the story or author. Some covers do that to me and I love it when it pays off with a good story, too.
"Every man must decide whether he will walk in the light of creative altruism or in the darkness of destructive selfishness."
--Martin Luther King, Jr.
The Long Fall of Night explores what might happen to society if a terrorist attack, in the form of an electromagnetic pulse (EMP), were to take out the power grids for more than half of the United States. I don't know how plausible a scenario like this is, but the thought of it sure is unsettling. And like many post-apocalyptic story lines, The Long Fall of Night isn't really about the disaster, at all - that’s just the vehicle - but rather about how people deal with it. Disasters like the one depicted in this book bring out the very best and the worst of humanity and we see it all here in vivid color. In The Long Fall of Night there are over 200 million people suddenly without power, clean water, food and long distance communication. Mass panic and chaos are inevitable.
This is a long book, almost 500 pages, and the cast of characters is large. The story is cut into two story lines; the main story is of Ash and Elliot's refugee group and the other, Team Shockwave of the US Army, who are tasked with finding civilians and sending them to disaster centers where they can get food, water and shelter. And, while there was a lot to keep up with, I didn't find it terribly difficult to do so. I found the characters interesting, and I was engaged in their progress. And, though the story was sometimes slow, I didn't feel the urge to skip or skim. There is a lot of build up within each group as everyone tries to find their place in this brave new world.
Asher “Ash” Caine is a college student who is definitely more than he seems. He goes out of his way to look like a bit of a bad boy - tattoos, muscular build, and an 'I don't give a crap' attitude. He's never let himself get close to people because he has a bit of an abandonment complex. Both his parents died when he was young and his crazy "uncle" Martin has filled his head with all kinds of conspiracy theories. So, Ash is a bit of an outsider. The closest thing he has to a friend is his chemistry lab partner, Elliot, but Ash doesn't really consider them friends and certainly not boyfriends. Whatever they are, though, they have the 'with benefits' designation. Ash is lying to himself, though. He cares for Elliot a lot more than he lets on.
Elliot Davenport comes from money. His father owns an oil company, so Elliot has never had to fend for himself in any situation. However, that silver spoon had its drawbacks. Elliot has always been kept on a short leash, and his childhood wasn't filled with playgrounds and sleepovers. He's had a tremendous amount of pressure to succeed and be the perfect son to take over his father's company. He's crazy brilliant and socially awkward and in love with the emotionally unavailable Ash.
Ash was warned, by his Uncle Martin, to prep a go bag and be ready to bug-out of New York City if anything unusual happens. He is to go get his sister and nephew and head to Seattle. When the lights go out, Ash is with Elliot and Elliot comes with. But convincing him (and his sister) that they need to travel across the country is no easy task. But they must do something before chaos breaks out everywhere. Plus, Elliot's dad sends a trusted man, Brian, to get Elliot. And Brian agrees with Ash that they all need to get the hell off the east coast.
When they start their journey, it's six adults and a 10 year old boy and all the supplies they could salvage all packed in a minivan. Easy peasy, right? Nope. Their journey is fraught with tragedy and unexpected situations and for more than 1000 miles, they walked and camped and walked some more. They hunted their food and just kept going. And they meet people along the way and gain more travelers as they try to make their way to Seattle.
Interspersed in the story, we get a perspective of the disaster from the view of a team of Army soldiers called Shockwave. This team is headed up by a badass woman, Sargent Vanessa "Ness" Middler, who is very no-nonsense. She puts her career first in her life and her team is her family. Shockwave is one of the many teams doing sweeps of cities and neighborhoods to get stranded citizens to aid. After that, they are essentially on border patrol. They can't just let 200 million people all go to the west coast or there would be even more chaos.
Within Shockwave, there is a GFY pairing of Corporal Chris West and Corporal Donovan "Donnie" Scanlon. They've been best friends since boot camp seven years ago and Chris suddenly find himself fantasizing about Donnie and so we get to see them work though that while they fight, then fuck out their tension.
I am very happy to say that I enjoyed this book a lot and I cannot wait for the next installment. The ending isn't a cliffhanger, but there is obviously more story to tell. We still don't know who is responsible for the EMP and I want to see a lot more of Ash and Elliot, as well as see how things play out between Chris and Donnie. I think that The Long Fall of Night is an excellent start to this dystopian series.
July 21, 2015
This is one of my favorite genres. Post apocalyptic gay romance, especially without zombies or supernatural elements, always go on my read list. I was especially in the mood for one today!
The forward talked about how much research and effort went into this book. It does show, the book is very detail-oriented, and has a lot of content that the author didn't likely know off the top of her head.
However, it has two major issues.
First, the characters. There are many characters, and even the main characters lack depth. The characters just cycle through their traits rather than developing or growing. Ash is a jerk. Then he realizes he's being a jerk and is apologetic. Occasionally he admits he's insecure. He needs to be in control. That's pretty much it for him. Elliott is smart. He's also somewhat timid and fragile physically. He's also super insecure and passive about almost everything.
This sets up for a romance trope that I honestly can't stand. The alpha studmuffin acts like an ass, then decides to break up with the passive puppy. Only in the precise moment of dumpage does the alpha realize... hey, wait. Maybe I was getting something out of that.
Ash is a jerk to Elliot from page one. Elliot is basically subservient, running around after Ash and making sure his manly ego gets stroked frequently. Elliott is a puppy with a crush, and it is a bit pathetic to watch him pant after the crumbs of Ash's attention.
So when Ash dumps him, I was kind of hoping this was where Elliot finally gets a backbone. But, no. He continues to pant around after crumbs (hoping Ash will hold his hand and being sad when he doesn't, wishing Ash would come to bed with him, it's obnoxious).
Argh!
Then there is Ash's sister. Ash puts himself in charge of the entire post apocalyptic survival strategy, and his sister has other ideas. They bicker throughout the entire book. If they were my kids, I would have sent them to separate rooms to avoid having to hear it, why would I want to read a whole book full of it? The sister isn't a pleasant character in any way and a lot of Ash's angst is fretting about her tender emotional state.
Then the story switches to another plotline involving a national guard team. I found those chapters so boring I had to start skimming them. I couldn't engage with any of the characters or figure out what the point of their existence was. They seem like fluff. I assume their role gets bigger, but reading about their random boring days in preparation for something else was not conducive to pacing.
The second big issue is that the author seems to have designed the technical plot backward and didn't check it for continuity going forward. This is a pretty common thing, an author thinks "what kind of weapon would take out the electricity for a huge area?" and doesn't think "what other effects would this weapon have?" The technological failures are all conveniently targeted. Electricity is out, and people's cell phones all went dead, along with all of the gas powered generators. However, cars, ipods, and satellite phones miraculously survived.
Also, there is a whole thing about how Ash saved his electronics from destruction (which was apparently not necessary, since Elliot's ipod and his nephew's DS were fine, along with the electronics in their cars), and that they have a GPS. But then when they have no more gas (or way to charge their electronics) they somehow still have the electronics and know where to go.
I've read quite a few in this genre and there is nothing game changing about this one. It is well researched for the most part, if not really meticulously planned. Really, I just didn't like the characters.
Since I do most of my reading on Scribd, I have a firm rule that when I stop enjoying a book I'm reading, I evaluate the potential for a quick turnaround. If I don't think it likely, I DNF. Life is too short to read books you're not enjoying! I quit this one at about 60%, although I really wish I'd quit earlier. Things went downhill by 25% and haven't improved.
The forward talked about how much research and effort went into this book. It does show, the book is very detail-oriented, and has a lot of content that the author didn't likely know off the top of her head.
However, it has two major issues.
First, the characters. There are many characters, and even the main characters lack depth. The characters just cycle through their traits rather than developing or growing. Ash is a jerk. Then he realizes he's being a jerk and is apologetic. Occasionally he admits he's insecure. He needs to be in control. That's pretty much it for him. Elliott is smart. He's also somewhat timid and fragile physically. He's also super insecure and passive about almost everything.
This sets up for a romance trope that I honestly can't stand. The alpha studmuffin acts like an ass, then decides to break up with the passive puppy. Only in the precise moment of dumpage does the alpha realize... hey, wait. Maybe I was getting something out of that.
Ash is a jerk to Elliot from page one. Elliot is basically subservient, running around after Ash and making sure his manly ego gets stroked frequently. Elliott is a puppy with a crush, and it is a bit pathetic to watch him pant after the crumbs of Ash's attention.
So when Ash dumps him, I was kind of hoping this was where Elliot finally gets a backbone. But, no. He continues to pant around after crumbs (hoping Ash will hold his hand and being sad when he doesn't, wishing Ash would come to bed with him, it's obnoxious).
Argh!
Then there is Ash's sister. Ash puts himself in charge of the entire post apocalyptic survival strategy, and his sister has other ideas. They bicker throughout the entire book. If they were my kids, I would have sent them to separate rooms to avoid having to hear it, why would I want to read a whole book full of it? The sister isn't a pleasant character in any way and a lot of Ash's angst is fretting about her tender emotional state.
Then the story switches to another plotline involving a national guard team. I found those chapters so boring I had to start skimming them. I couldn't engage with any of the characters or figure out what the point of their existence was. They seem like fluff. I assume their role gets bigger, but reading about their random boring days in preparation for something else was not conducive to pacing.
The second big issue is that the author seems to have designed the technical plot backward and didn't check it for continuity going forward. This is a pretty common thing, an author thinks "what kind of weapon would take out the electricity for a huge area?" and doesn't think "what other effects would this weapon have?" The technological failures are all conveniently targeted. Electricity is out, and people's cell phones all went dead, along with all of the gas powered generators. However, cars, ipods, and satellite phones miraculously survived.
Also, there is a whole thing about how Ash saved his electronics from destruction (which was apparently not necessary, since Elliot's ipod and his nephew's DS were fine, along with the electronics in their cars), and that they have a GPS. But then when they have no more gas (or way to charge their electronics) they somehow still have the electronics and know where to go.
I've read quite a few in this genre and there is nothing game changing about this one. It is well researched for the most part, if not really meticulously planned. Really, I just didn't like the characters.
Since I do most of my reading on Scribd, I have a firm rule that when I stop enjoying a book I'm reading, I evaluate the potential for a quick turnaround. If I don't think it likely, I DNF. Life is too short to read books you're not enjoying! I quit this one at about 60%, although I really wish I'd quit earlier. Things went downhill by 25% and haven't improved.
March 8, 2017
4.5 STARS
Good dystopian/post apocalyptic story and it's not too brutal and downtrodden for a change. I can't wait for the sequel!
Good dystopian/post apocalyptic story and it's not too brutal and downtrodden for a change. I can't wait for the sequel!
June 17, 2015
Where do I start with this book? I don't even know...It consumes you. I found myself daydreaming about it. Long after I closed it, it was there. Every song, commercials, even food shopping made me think of it. That's some serious writing power. AJ Rose has started a series with one hell of an explosion of literary genius. She's not a bestselling author for nothing. I will say Elliot was my favorite character. I was drawn to his thinking, his doing, his existing. Ash was his beacon and together they were safe. That's saying something too. This world AJ created is terrifying and sadly it can absolutely happen. If the other books in this series are as great as book 1 this will likely be one of, if not, the best series out there.
Now, you may wonder if this is hyperbole. But, it's not! I gravitate toward apocalypse movies and shows. The Walking Dead, Day After Tomorrow, Armageddon. I love shows built on pillars of unique creativity like Game of Thrones and Sons of Anarchy. I LOVE when anything can happen, when my heart is in my throat, my pulse pounds, and I'm about ready to jump out of my skin. AJ has managed to do this epically with this book. I know what I'm talking about here.
This book will stay with you. It will literally change how you live your life. It will make you appreciate the luxuries. You'll be hooked!
Now, you may wonder if this is hyperbole. But, it's not! I gravitate toward apocalypse movies and shows. The Walking Dead, Day After Tomorrow, Armageddon. I love shows built on pillars of unique creativity like Game of Thrones and Sons of Anarchy. I LOVE when anything can happen, when my heart is in my throat, my pulse pounds, and I'm about ready to jump out of my skin. AJ has managed to do this epically with this book. I know what I'm talking about here.
This book will stay with you. It will literally change how you live your life. It will make you appreciate the luxuries. You'll be hooked!
November 7, 2015
Enjoyable.
Pretty good read. I got a little irritated with the chapters hopping from group to group. I suppose it was meant to build suspense by jumping to a different group with the next chapter leaving the previous group suspended in their drama but I didn't appreciate it.
The author seems to have really tried to flesh out the real moral, logistical and psychological issues we would face in these circumstances and created a variety of characters worth knowing.
I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
Pretty good read. I got a little irritated with the chapters hopping from group to group. I suppose it was meant to build suspense by jumping to a different group with the next chapter leaving the previous group suspended in their drama but I didn't appreciate it.
The author seems to have really tried to flesh out the real moral, logistical and psychological issues we would face in these circumstances and created a variety of characters worth knowing.
I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
August 28, 2015
This book....this book...
A tour de force. Brilliantly entertaining and an anxiety riddle work of the likes I've not come across since Stephen King's 'The Stand'. This rips apart the beloved labels of its sub genre and offers up, instead, humanity in all of its triumphs and failures.
impeccably researched, descriptive, and best of all ...plausible, A.J. delivered a veritable feast that will have you reading late into the night as you read about an apocalypse unfolding.
A tour de force. Brilliantly entertaining and an anxiety riddle work of the likes I've not come across since Stephen King's 'The Stand'. This rips apart the beloved labels of its sub genre and offers up, instead, humanity in all of its triumphs and failures.
impeccably researched, descriptive, and best of all ...plausible, A.J. delivered a veritable feast that will have you reading late into the night as you read about an apocalypse unfolding.
June 19, 2015
3 meh stars
June 29, 2015
Whew, this was quite a ride!! It kept me up half the night Thursday and has me paranoid enough to be contemplating storing an emergency backpack in the basement with cash and batteries and all sorts of stuff. Some LifeStraws and maps and good hiking boots.... My husband might think I'm crazy, but someday he'll be thankful!
I hadn't read anything of Rose's aside from the Power Exchange series, so I wasn't really sure what to expect—writing/storytelling can vary wildly series to series depending on editor, publisher, etc. But I found the writing and storytelling to be just as good as I'd have expected. The editing was maybe not quite as tight, and there was a lot of one MC referring to the other MC as "his lab partner" or "his partner" or some other label other than just his name, which grates on my nerves after a while, no matter how much I like everything else. But I think those are my only complaints.
One thing that I actually really enjoyed is that there were no zombies. LOL. I swear every book I've read lately that's dealt with an apocalyptic-type situation has featured zombies. I kept expecting Walking Dead-type walkers to jump out at them. So it was kind of a nice relief that there were no undead in sight! And kind of weird, too—I'm just so used to zombie stories.
Lots of good secondary characters. Ash's sister and nephew, some people they meet up with, and Ghost, of course ♥ I have to assume that's a well-deserved shout-out to Ghost from GoT. He was a good addition to the book.
The POV mainly alternated between Ash and Elliot, but there was some military POV sprinkled throughout. I thought that was going to bug me (particularly after one of the military chapters devolved into het sex), but as with Myah POV in Consent, having the alternate POVs really added something to the story—a tension and depth of story we never would have had if we'd been limited to Ash and Elliot. The military POV rotated through four characters, although it ended up settling (mostly) on two of them—and we end up with a side m/m relationship, as well, which was fun. I'm going to make a guess that we're going to be seeing more of Donnie and Chris (and Ness and Roger) as the series continues, and I'm cool with that. Rose's character are always interesting—even the secondary ones.
I spent the whole last 1/4 of the book completely tense, worried about where the book was going to end. That's the problem with jumping on a series right at the start. I imagined so many scenarios that would have left me in little pieces, waiting for the next book, so I was so happy to get to the end and have it be in a very good place. I am definitely feeling satisfied for now. For now! :) Supposedly book 2 is coming out in the fall, and that's awesome! I'm already excited about it. I don't think we'll get the big time jumps between books that we had in the Power Exchange series—there's just too much going on for that to make sense—but I already see so much possibility for where the story could go. I can't wait to read more.
Good start to a new series!
I hadn't read anything of Rose's aside from the Power Exchange series, so I wasn't really sure what to expect—writing/storytelling can vary wildly series to series depending on editor, publisher, etc. But I found the writing and storytelling to be just as good as I'd have expected. The editing was maybe not quite as tight, and there was a lot of one MC referring to the other MC as "his lab partner" or "his partner" or some other label other than just his name, which grates on my nerves after a while, no matter how much I like everything else. But I think those are my only complaints.
One thing that I actually really enjoyed is that there were no zombies. LOL. I swear every book I've read lately that's dealt with an apocalyptic-type situation has featured zombies. I kept expecting Walking Dead-type walkers to jump out at them. So it was kind of a nice relief that there were no undead in sight! And kind of weird, too—I'm just so used to zombie stories.
Lots of good secondary characters. Ash's sister and nephew, some people they meet up with, and Ghost, of course ♥ I have to assume that's a well-deserved shout-out to Ghost from GoT. He was a good addition to the book.
The POV mainly alternated between Ash and Elliot, but there was some military POV sprinkled throughout. I thought that was going to bug me (particularly after one of the military chapters devolved into het sex), but as with Myah POV in Consent, having the alternate POVs really added something to the story—a tension and depth of story we never would have had if we'd been limited to Ash and Elliot. The military POV rotated through four characters, although it ended up settling (mostly) on two of them—and we end up with a side m/m relationship, as well, which was fun. I'm going to make a guess that we're going to be seeing more of Donnie and Chris (and Ness and Roger) as the series continues, and I'm cool with that. Rose's character are always interesting—even the secondary ones.
I spent the whole last 1/4 of the book completely tense, worried about where the book was going to end. That's the problem with jumping on a series right at the start. I imagined so many scenarios that would have left me in little pieces, waiting for the next book, so I was so happy to get to the end and have it be in a very good place. I am definitely feeling satisfied for now. For now! :) Supposedly book 2 is coming out in the fall, and that's awesome! I'm already excited about it. I don't think we'll get the big time jumps between books that we had in the Power Exchange series—there's just too much going on for that to make sense—but I already see so much possibility for where the story could go. I can't wait to read more.
Good start to a new series!
Read
August 5, 2015End of the world plus male/male romance equals a premise that intrigues me. This is a straight up contemporary end of the world – a massive power outage and cell phones not working for at least half of the US. No zombies or paranormal things that are ending this world – just terrorists. Ash is in college out east and has an uncle out west who is an extreme conspiracy theorist. Even though Ash knows he is a little kooky, when his uncle calls him and tells him in a coded message to prepare for something big, Ash listens. He gathers some supplies and keeps his eyes and ears open – so when he is in chemistry lab and the power goes out and everyone’s cell phones won’t work, Ash knows he needs to move quick. His lab partner Elliot has a car, and after much hem and hawing, and a kiss between them (a spontaneous kiss out of adrenaline), Elliot decides to leave school and go with Ash, even though he thinks Ash is overreacting.
Ash heads to upstate New York to grab his sister and nephew before heading out west to meet up with his uncle. Whispers of a terrorist attack are being spread and Ash fears chaos is about to erupt.
I ended up DNFing (did not finish) this book at 50% for two main reasons – it’s slow and the romance fell flat. The author gives us two likable heroes. Ash is the more alpha/go-getter of the group who takes this terrorist attack very seriously. Elliot is more worried about doing something drastic, not being able to get in touch with his parents etc. He also has a seizure disorder, so the possibility that he may run out of medication is scary and portrayed well. The author also takes care in setting up the world and the attack. She explains it and gives us a glimpse of stores getting looted and people panicking. But – it’s very slow. The scary action happens off page. There is one time where an escaped inmate breaks into Ash’s sister’s house and assaults her – but it’s behind her closed bedroom door. When Ash breaks into a sporting goods store or a pharmacy, nothing happens. When they are traveling by car – nothing happens. When they camp out at night – nothing happens. People are committing murder-suicide but nothing comes Ash’s way. As the reader, I needed to be immersed into some danger – I wanted to feel the panic more. Not playing baseball with Ash’s nephew or finding a sporting goods store with every supply you could possibly want.
The romance is slow too. Ash and Elliot know each other from school, and there is an attraction already there. But the romance lacks. I totally get that they are running for safety so they can’t stop and make out – but there is no sexual tension. No build-up to a possible romance between them.
Also around chapter 4 or so, we switch to an entire new character in Colorado and spend a few pages with her every so often. It was odd and didn’t flow.
At the halfway mark I just lost interest. I hope they make it out west.
Grade: DNF
Ash heads to upstate New York to grab his sister and nephew before heading out west to meet up with his uncle. Whispers of a terrorist attack are being spread and Ash fears chaos is about to erupt.
I ended up DNFing (did not finish) this book at 50% for two main reasons – it’s slow and the romance fell flat. The author gives us two likable heroes. Ash is the more alpha/go-getter of the group who takes this terrorist attack very seriously. Elliot is more worried about doing something drastic, not being able to get in touch with his parents etc. He also has a seizure disorder, so the possibility that he may run out of medication is scary and portrayed well. The author also takes care in setting up the world and the attack. She explains it and gives us a glimpse of stores getting looted and people panicking. But – it’s very slow. The scary action happens off page. There is one time where an escaped inmate breaks into Ash’s sister’s house and assaults her – but it’s behind her closed bedroom door. When Ash breaks into a sporting goods store or a pharmacy, nothing happens. When they are traveling by car – nothing happens. When they camp out at night – nothing happens. People are committing murder-suicide but nothing comes Ash’s way. As the reader, I needed to be immersed into some danger – I wanted to feel the panic more. Not playing baseball with Ash’s nephew or finding a sporting goods store with every supply you could possibly want.
The romance is slow too. Ash and Elliot know each other from school, and there is an attraction already there. But the romance lacks. I totally get that they are running for safety so they can’t stop and make out – but there is no sexual tension. No build-up to a possible romance between them.
Also around chapter 4 or so, we switch to an entire new character in Colorado and spend a few pages with her every so often. It was odd and didn’t flow.
At the halfway mark I just lost interest. I hope they make it out west.
Grade: DNF
January 1, 2016
So i read this in one go because i wanted to find out what happened, the premise was promising, the characters interesting, but there were some major plot holes, the military perspective didn't need to be there, and there could of been more development of the tension within the group
July 13, 2015
Meh. 2.5 stars. Little too slow, not much happened, and when it did, it was almost too predictable. Seems like it'll be a series, but I think I'm not continuing on.
January 9, 2020
Disclaimers:
1. I am coming to the discussion on this book late.
2. I tend to enjoy longer books for my own personal reasons. I don't enjoy books that are just a sprint to a HEA.
3. Apocalyptic-Themed works tick a box for me, in a good way.
As a Rose fan from the Power & Exchange series, I'm going to be a sucker for her brand of story-telling, which luxuriates in details and putting the MCs in situations that are going to test their mettle. Two more boxes ticked. Character development, story and plausibility are all evident in how this work unfolds. So well told I kept seeing this as a movie in my head while reading. This may seem weird and unrelated but stick with me...Frank Carroll (Michelle Kwan's skating coach) once instructed Michelle to think of her performance like toothpaste oozing out of the tube. It shouldn't spew out and then end with a trickle....it should sustain the right amount of tension from start to finish. Nothing could more aptly describe my experience reading The Long Fall of Night-- sustained experience which included equal measures of action, romance/heat/attraction, suspense and tension from start to finish.
Now....are we getting another book in the series?
1. I am coming to the discussion on this book late.
2. I tend to enjoy longer books for my own personal reasons. I don't enjoy books that are just a sprint to a HEA.
3. Apocalyptic-Themed works tick a box for me, in a good way.
As a Rose fan from the Power & Exchange series, I'm going to be a sucker for her brand of story-telling, which luxuriates in details and putting the MCs in situations that are going to test their mettle. Two more boxes ticked. Character development, story and plausibility are all evident in how this work unfolds. So well told I kept seeing this as a movie in my head while reading. This may seem weird and unrelated but stick with me...Frank Carroll (Michelle Kwan's skating coach) once instructed Michelle to think of her performance like toothpaste oozing out of the tube. It shouldn't spew out and then end with a trickle....it should sustain the right amount of tension from start to finish. Nothing could more aptly describe my experience reading The Long Fall of Night-- sustained experience which included equal measures of action, romance/heat/attraction, suspense and tension from start to finish.
Now....are we getting another book in the series?
June 26, 2024
On one hand, the writing delivered a lot of details that I love on this type of story. When the scavenge for supplies, it actually details what they picked. Locations and the route the characters make are also nicely done.
On the other hand, none of the characters are that likable. In fact, they are so one-dimensional that they border unlikable sometimes. Ash in particular was so boring with his broody act. He also was the leader while taking all the wrong choices, that didn’t help.
The whole soldiers POV and the side romances were forgettable and bland, totally unnecessary additions to the story.
And the final nail in the coffin is that it ends on a cliffhanger and the sequel was promised for 2015 (almost 10 years ago, wow). It’s unlikely it’s ever getting released with this much delay.
So not only it’s a very weird take on the whole apocalyptic genre, but is it even post apocalyptic if the disaster is so local, they kept talking like “our old lives are gone” but I was like “you know the rest of the world still exists right?”.
In conclusion, this book is weirdly somewhat well done, someone put a lot of passion on this, I just wish they wrote better.
On the other hand, none of the characters are that likable. In fact, they are so one-dimensional that they border unlikable sometimes. Ash in particular was so boring with his broody act. He also was the leader while taking all the wrong choices, that didn’t help.
The whole soldiers POV and the side romances were forgettable and bland, totally unnecessary additions to the story.
And the final nail in the coffin is that it ends on a cliffhanger and the sequel was promised for 2015 (almost 10 years ago, wow). It’s unlikely it’s ever getting released with this much delay.
So not only it’s a very weird take on the whole apocalyptic genre, but is it even post apocalyptic if the disaster is so local, they kept talking like “our old lives are gone” but I was like “you know the rest of the world still exists right?”.
In conclusion, this book is weirdly somewhat well done, someone put a lot of passion on this, I just wish they wrote better.
August 24, 2022
Loved the story. However, I didn't really care much for Elliot. Whatever Ash says, he IS a burden, he IS useless. His gut instincts were all over the place; sometimes right but mostly just causing unnecessary discourse. I absolutely hated his whining and dramatics when their situations were dire. I mean, for example, if he hadn't run off after killing Tim, who knows if Aaron might not have been stabbed? Ugh.
I did adore all the other characters, and I was waiting for Jason to redeem himself but was disappointed :( I still liked him because he was alright to Riley and respected Charlotte; he was one of my favorite characters alongside Ash. The only thing I hated about Ash was his unreasonableness when it came to Elliot.
Anyways, this was my first read of a clash of the apocalyptic genre and MM, and I loved it despite a few misgivings. I hope there is a book 2!
I did adore all the other characters, and I was waiting for Jason to redeem himself but was disappointed :( I still liked him because he was alright to Riley and respected Charlotte; he was one of my favorite characters alongside Ash. The only thing I hated about Ash was his unreasonableness when it came to Elliot.
Anyways, this was my first read of a clash of the apocalyptic genre and MM, and I loved it despite a few misgivings. I hope there is a book 2!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 23, 2020
This book was actually a bit of a disappointment for me. I finished it, but only because I kept hoping that something better was going to happen. When I say something better, I mean something exciting.
I know you're not supposed to judge a book by it's cover, but in this case I kind of did. I can't picture Ash, Elliot or Brian being the cover-boy: they were all just to regular to look like that studly Aragorn looking adventurer.
This book ended up being just an extended road trip. Yes, people were terrible to each other and some died terrible deaths, but it was all just so... blah.
Unfortunately I don't think I'm going to read the second in the series (if there is a second one).
I know you're not supposed to judge a book by it's cover, but in this case I kind of did. I can't picture Ash, Elliot or Brian being the cover-boy: they were all just to regular to look like that studly Aragorn looking adventurer.
This book ended up being just an extended road trip. Yes, people were terrible to each other and some died terrible deaths, but it was all just so... blah.
Unfortunately I don't think I'm going to read the second in the series (if there is a second one).
July 14, 2017
3.5 rounded up to 4 stars, because I feel like there is great potential for this series to move forward. Not your typical action-filled, zombies-are-gonna-have-me-for-lunch dystopian drama. More of a study in human nature, conflicting and conflicted relationships, with a dose of good, old-fashioned "how to survive when the sh*t hits the fan" ideas and perspectives. Some things that really have me hoping for another book--Chris and Donnie, Brian's real relationship to Elliot.............but most of all -- Uncle Marvin. Can't wait to "meet" this guy.
April 25, 2018
4.5 to 4.75 stars
September 18, 2018
One of the best books I've read this year!
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