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Rainier Erupts!
AN EPIC TALE OF VOLCANIC CATASTROPHEMount Rainier is one of the most dangerous volcanoes on earth because of its awe-inspiring size and close proximity to the population centers of Seattle and Tacoma. What if this primordial giant were to erupt—tomorrow? Thomas P. Hopp vividly portrays the all-too-possible day when the mountain unleashes its pent-up fury. Enter a world gone mad with explosions that dwarf nuclear bombs, giant mudflows, choking ashfalls, and spouting red-hot lava. Flee in desperation with mountain climbers caught in the first outbursts. Experience one family’s struggle to survive when their home is swept away by a lahar mudflow. Fly with helicopter crews risking their own lives to save others. Learn Nisqually Indian legends of this White Mountain called Tacobet. Observe scientists predicting the volcano’s next outburst. Follow government officials trying to stave off catastrophe. RAINIER ERUPTS! is a heart-stopping true-to-life look at the horrors and heroism that would mark this day of disaster.
285 pages, Paperback
Published April 8, 2016
73 people are currently reading
27 people want to read
About the author
Thomas P. Hopp
21 books38 followersAuthor of the Northwest Tales series of natural disaster thrillers, the Peyton McKean mystery series and Dinosaur Wars science fiction stories.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
April 11, 2024
Interesting and terrifying look at what would happen if Mount Rainier, located near a very populated area, were to erupt. The characters were easy to relate to, and Hopp does a great job building the tension. Some of the dialogue seemed stilted and awkward but otherwise the story flows well and wraps you up in the lead up to the eruption and the aftermath.
April 23, 2016
This book had me gripped and is a sobering reminder of the power of nature. If you are a fan of the disaster movie genre you will like it but get a deeper insight than a movie could give, including the geology behind it. I know Seattle well - my wife's from there - so that added to my enjoyment, though I'm glad it's just a fictional account and I hope it stays that way because if it were for real the tremendous loss of life would be truly awful. Some of the scenarios/cameos are a little cheeseball but generally the author does a good job.
March 16, 2024
A Scary Read Full of Tension
So I wanted to read something scary today and this definitely fit that, as I am scared of volcanoes... I think somehow knowing it was going to erupt (based on the cover image) made the tension even higher. Because then you are left wondering when is it going to erupt and who is going to be affected by it? Well I could sure feel the anxiety buzzing in me as I read the first chunk of this that lead up to the eruption. Scary indeed!!
Reading this reminded me of this one science video I saw on YouTube some years ago that covered the historic eruption of Rainier long ago, so I already knew that the main threat in here would be from the awful mud slides called lahar and not from the actual lava. I did find the written details about how the huge chunks of ice melting and falling into that deep crevice - and the affect it had on the unstable volcano very fascinating. I also didn't realize that magma had water inside it or that it could have water in it...
The second half of the book, which dealt with the flooding and the lahar, was good too but to me it was not as intense as the scary events leading to the actual eruption. But realize not long ago I had read Arkstorm which had dealt with immense flooding so I think this is why the flooding part didn't scare me too much.
What this book points out though, and what I had highlighted, is the brief passage that is asking where all of those people would go during an evacuation... Then add in today's housing shortage. And countless people don't even own cars. I often think many car owning people think everyone drives and owns a car but that is simply not true at all. Many people who live near volcanoes don't ever think about this I guess - the possibility that it may go boom! I guess not thinking about it allows them to live in the shadow of the slumbering monsters because surely otherwise they would be nervous wrecks!
There were many things in here that truly surprised me. And that includes who had survived. Now somehow I just knew Iggy would live (a very, very minor character by the way who is not even human so this is not really much of a spoiler in my opinion) and that made me happy. Because for whatever reasons he was the one I liked the best.
I really didn't connect with any of the characters in here. And that is ok...as I read this to have a bit of a scare. Because sometimes reading a scary book can help you deal with other stress in your life.
The maps at the front and back of the book is a great touch. The descriptions in here are fantastic too. Very scary stuff when that mountain is blowing up! Makes me glad there are none of those things anywhere near here! I really don't know why volcanoes scare me but they sure do.
So I wanted to read something scary today and this definitely fit that, as I am scared of volcanoes... I think somehow knowing it was going to erupt (based on the cover image) made the tension even higher. Because then you are left wondering when is it going to erupt and who is going to be affected by it? Well I could sure feel the anxiety buzzing in me as I read the first chunk of this that lead up to the eruption. Scary indeed!!
Reading this reminded me of this one science video I saw on YouTube some years ago that covered the historic eruption of Rainier long ago, so I already knew that the main threat in here would be from the awful mud slides called lahar and not from the actual lava. I did find the written details about how the huge chunks of ice melting and falling into that deep crevice - and the affect it had on the unstable volcano very fascinating. I also didn't realize that magma had water inside it or that it could have water in it...
The second half of the book, which dealt with the flooding and the lahar, was good too but to me it was not as intense as the scary events leading to the actual eruption. But realize not long ago I had read Arkstorm which had dealt with immense flooding so I think this is why the flooding part didn't scare me too much.
What this book points out though, and what I had highlighted, is the brief passage that is asking where all of those people would go during an evacuation... Then add in today's housing shortage. And countless people don't even own cars. I often think many car owning people think everyone drives and owns a car but that is simply not true at all. Many people who live near volcanoes don't ever think about this I guess - the possibility that it may go boom! I guess not thinking about it allows them to live in the shadow of the slumbering monsters because surely otherwise they would be nervous wrecks!
There were many things in here that truly surprised me. And that includes who had survived. Now somehow I just knew Iggy would live (a very, very minor character by the way who is not even human so this is not really much of a spoiler in my opinion) and that made me happy. Because for whatever reasons he was the one I liked the best.
I really didn't connect with any of the characters in here. And that is ok...as I read this to have a bit of a scare. Because sometimes reading a scary book can help you deal with other stress in your life.
The maps at the front and back of the book is a great touch. The descriptions in here are fantastic too. Very scary stuff when that mountain is blowing up! Makes me glad there are none of those things anywhere near here! I really don't know why volcanoes scare me but they sure do.
October 23, 2017
This is an excellent disaster book. It centers on something that is real (and is a real potential hazard), brings up characters you actually get interested in and describes the events caused by the eruption realistically and in way that makes sense.
You've got a really rich real-estate mogul throwing a party. There's Jimmy Finch, a Native American, who has his own explanation for what Mount Rainier does. There's two groups of people hiking up the mountain, the mayor and her colleagues, a waiter and Rutledge and those who work with him at their seismology lab.
You get to really know these people and like most of them. The destruction is very detailed and even the mayor's own life is in danger. The type of problems the eruption causes are covered and the start of the relief operations are well done (along with an exciting rescue operation). The story is gripping and very well written.
You've got a really rich real-estate mogul throwing a party. There's Jimmy Finch, a Native American, who has his own explanation for what Mount Rainier does. There's two groups of people hiking up the mountain, the mayor and her colleagues, a waiter and Rutledge and those who work with him at their seismology lab.
You get to really know these people and like most of them. The destruction is very detailed and even the mayor's own life is in danger. The type of problems the eruption causes are covered and the start of the relief operations are well done (along with an exciting rescue operation). The story is gripping and very well written.
August 20, 2017
Oh man I wanted to love this book. It had everything I love, natural disasters, volcanos and it takes place where I live! I have read a lot on Mount Rainier and it is technically an active volcano and one of the most dangerous in the United States due to its proximity to urban areas. This book is the what if story of Rainier erupting. It was faced paced and the facts were all good. The story line was superb but man the writing was pretty bad. The dialogue was unbelievable and almost cheesy and the author was trying to fit in facts a little too obviously that resulted in awkward writing that took away from the story. There were times that I wanted to give up but I slogged through it and am happy that I did finish it. Overall I'd give a 5 star for storyline and 2 for writing. If you can get past the awkward writing it is a pretty decent natural disaster story.
April 4, 2022
Really good disaster book. I remember Mount St Helen's and saw some ash falling here where I live, so have been attracted to stories like this. Great action that makes you keep turning pages to see what happens.
March 3, 2020
I enjoyed reading this book. It's a what if scenario, what if Mt Rainier actually erupted? What would you do to save your family, your friends? When you don't expect this to happen, and all hell breaks loose, suffice to say some will live and some will die. I enjoyed reading the descriptions of the eruption. It's almost like your their, telling at everyone to move faster. I like the characters, their not particularly selfish but they do the best they can. Read this exciting adventure, and be prepared. You never know when a book will save your life.
May 5, 2021
Catastrophic surprise
I don't think anyone is ever ready for a huge disaster, certainly not the people! Living in the area of Seattle. People become complacent when living in a disaster zone such as volcanoes, low lands susceptible to tsunamis, earthquake areas to the point where their attitudes are somewhat fatalistic and something bad would never happen. No matter how prepared they believe they are, they are never prepared totally. This story demonstrates how truly unpredictable life can be.
I don't think anyone is ever ready for a huge disaster, certainly not the people! Living in the area of Seattle. People become complacent when living in a disaster zone such as volcanoes, low lands susceptible to tsunamis, earthquake areas to the point where their attitudes are somewhat fatalistic and something bad would never happen. No matter how prepared they believe they are, they are never prepared totally. This story demonstrates how truly unpredictable life can be.
January 15, 2026
a great adventure that taught me a lot about volcanoes
Rainer Erupts is a great read for anyone that likes disaster books with positive endings. It’s a good book for young and old in a more 20th century style of telling the whole story without excessive lurid details. Triumphs and tragedies that keep you on the edge of your seat. Thomas Hopp is a great writer and I’m looking forward to reading more of his books. If you think you know everything about volcanos check out ‘Rainer Erupts’ and you will learn something.
Rainer Erupts is a great read for anyone that likes disaster books with positive endings. It’s a good book for young and old in a more 20th century style of telling the whole story without excessive lurid details. Triumphs and tragedies that keep you on the edge of your seat. Thomas Hopp is a great writer and I’m looking forward to reading more of his books. If you think you know everything about volcanos check out ‘Rainer Erupts’ and you will learn something.
November 22, 2020
The first of Northwest Tales
Although this tale has not occurred at this time. It is quite literally a distinct possibility. Join our cast of intrepid survivors as they struggle their way through a calamity of Biblical proportions. Fast paced series of daunting obstacles,fear and death as constant companions.
Although this tale has not occurred at this time. It is quite literally a distinct possibility. Join our cast of intrepid survivors as they struggle their way through a calamity of Biblical proportions. Fast paced series of daunting obstacles,fear and death as constant companions.
October 30, 2023
Fun read
Since I'm a western Washington native who definitely remembers the Mt St Helens eruption, its fun to read about the potential eruption of Mt Rainier, or Mt Hood. We know that eventually another one of our mountains will erupt, most likely more deadly than Mt St Helens. Though it took a bit longer than a couple of days to get clean ups started. Thanks for a fun read.
Since I'm a western Washington native who definitely remembers the Mt St Helens eruption, its fun to read about the potential eruption of Mt Rainier, or Mt Hood. We know that eventually another one of our mountains will erupt, most likely more deadly than Mt St Helens. Though it took a bit longer than a couple of days to get clean ups started. Thanks for a fun read.
June 18, 2018
Could not stop!
I tend to read different types of books concurrently, however, I read this book pretty much non-stop. I had to get to bed for sleep because I couldn't keep my eyes open. I have finished the book; it was a GREAT READ!
I tend to read different types of books concurrently, however, I read this book pretty much non-stop. I had to get to bed for sleep because I couldn't keep my eyes open. I have finished the book; it was a GREAT READ!
February 19, 2020
Wonderful
Such a fantastic adventure! Having visited the Seattle area many times, and seen Mt. Rainier, this novel was very scary. Because it can very well happen. Remember Mount St. Helens. People didn't think she would explode, until it did.
Such a fantastic adventure! Having visited the Seattle area many times, and seen Mt. Rainier, this novel was very scary. Because it can very well happen. Remember Mount St. Helens. People didn't think she would explode, until it did.
December 17, 2022
Danger!
I give this book 5stars because the characters were believable and well done. Action fast paced and well written. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in our earth and how our actions may have an effect on the future.
I give this book 5stars because the characters were believable and well done. Action fast paced and well written. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in our earth and how our actions may have an effect on the future.
May 1, 2025
good story
I really enjoyed this story. Great plot and lots of action. We just spent two weeks in WA, with most of our time around Mt Rainier. Was interesting to look at the last map in the book and see where the Lahars ran. On to read the next in the series
I really enjoyed this story. Great plot and lots of action. We just spent two weeks in WA, with most of our time around Mt Rainier. Was interesting to look at the last map in the book and see where the Lahars ran. On to read the next in the series
February 3, 2017
A great Read.
This is one of the best
disaster books I,ve read.Unlike many others
,the characters in it are "normal..I hope we get more books from this author
This is one of the best
disaster books I,ve read.Unlike many others
,the characters in it are "normal..I hope we get more books from this author
September 20, 2020
Awesome
The book was real page turner! The author really did his research of the area and the mountain. I would highly recommend this book
The book was real page turner! The author really did his research of the area and the mountain. I would highly recommend this book
March 18, 2021
Ouch!
Could not stop reading until the last page. Very well done, entertaining, and sobering. Felt like this is exactly what will happen someday. Thank you😺
Could not stop reading until the last page. Very well done, entertaining, and sobering. Felt like this is exactly what will happen someday. Thank you😺
November 17, 2021
Great entertainment
A well written escape. The descriptions painted in words ..splashed on paper made for a enjoyable fall adventure. A book and a warm cup of coffee...very welcome.
A well written escape. The descriptions painted in words ..splashed on paper made for a enjoyable fall adventure. A book and a warm cup of coffee...very welcome.
January 17, 2022
A fabulous book!
This has been one of the most spell binding, nail chewing reads for quite a while. Fantastic! Just a wonderful bok.
This has been one of the most spell binding, nail chewing reads for quite a while. Fantastic! Just a wonderful bok.
February 2, 2025
I definitely recommend this book.
I liked everything about this book. An event that could happen and probably will, but could be many years from now. An edge of your seat read!
I liked everything about this book. An event that could happen and probably will, but could be many years from now. An edge of your seat read!
February 2, 2022
Nonstop action!
March 7, 2017
Mount Rainer
The mountain volcano is a magnificent sight, but it has the actual potential to cause massive devastation should it ever erupt. Too many people reside too close and notifications of impending failure is necessary if the SeaTac area survived. Hopefully the mountain remains quiet, otherwise..........
The mountain volcano is a magnificent sight, but it has the actual potential to cause massive devastation should it ever erupt. Too many people reside too close and notifications of impending failure is necessary if the SeaTac area survived. Hopefully the mountain remains quiet, otherwise..........
April 13, 2016
We lived on the other side of Washington State and experienced the eerie gray ash that blocked the sun, turning midday into night, when Mount Saint Helens erupted in 1980. When I heard about “Rainier Erupts!” I wanted to see what this book has to say about what might happen if Mt. Rainier blew its top.
The author’s comprehensive research is evident. While the book tells a riveting “what-if” disaster story, it digs even deeper. Cleverly and effectively, woven into the story are clear explanations of the science of how a volcano is formed, what happens inside and outside during an eruption, and how the process is monitored. The narrative also touches on the history, culture and perspective of the local Nisqually Tribe that sees such events as part of nature’s way to cleanse and heal itself.
At the beginning, the book foreshadows the inevitable when climbers, exploring an ice cave “descended for several hundred yards into a world of steamy mists and warm, humid air with a faintly sulfurous odor, like they were approaching Dante’s Inferno at the summit of a mountain.” Vivid descriptions throughout the book build suspense and create the effect of actually being there, from inside or on the mountain, to escaping certain death from a wall of mud, to reporting from a news helicopter, to flying a rescue helicopter, to making the political decision of when to order an evacuation and more.
Through an account of a major catastrophe, the book shows how resilience, hope and renewal are at the core of human nature and Mother Nature.
This book is informative as well as entertaining. It’s a fast read that would appeal to readers interested in natural disasters, geography, and human nature.
The author’s comprehensive research is evident. While the book tells a riveting “what-if” disaster story, it digs even deeper. Cleverly and effectively, woven into the story are clear explanations of the science of how a volcano is formed, what happens inside and outside during an eruption, and how the process is monitored. The narrative also touches on the history, culture and perspective of the local Nisqually Tribe that sees such events as part of nature’s way to cleanse and heal itself.
At the beginning, the book foreshadows the inevitable when climbers, exploring an ice cave “descended for several hundred yards into a world of steamy mists and warm, humid air with a faintly sulfurous odor, like they were approaching Dante’s Inferno at the summit of a mountain.” Vivid descriptions throughout the book build suspense and create the effect of actually being there, from inside or on the mountain, to escaping certain death from a wall of mud, to reporting from a news helicopter, to flying a rescue helicopter, to making the political decision of when to order an evacuation and more.
Through an account of a major catastrophe, the book shows how resilience, hope and renewal are at the core of human nature and Mother Nature.
This book is informative as well as entertaining. It’s a fast read that would appeal to readers interested in natural disasters, geography, and human nature.
September 16, 2016
This novel gripped me from beginning to end. Having lived in the greater Seattle area, I could vividly picture the setting and the impact of an eruption such as that described. Tom Hopp makes the science behind such an eruption understandable at a lay-person's level. Loved this, but I hope it doesn't happen for real.
June 12, 2016
I found Rainer Erupts! completely engrossing. The story follows a chopper pilot, mountain climbers, scientists, politicians, a Native American fisherman, and a suburban family as they react to a natural disaster. Author Tom Hopp knows his topic, and crafted a suspenseful tale of a frightening scenario that could actually happen. Would you be prepared? Would you know what to do if Rainier erupted? I'm afraid I would have been washed away in the first lahar. You'll be rooting for the characters to win the battle against Mother Nature...well, almost all of them!
January 13, 2026
Me being a huge volcano nerd and also a reading nerd, I was searching google for a book that centered on a volcanic eruption and this was one of the results. I live in Washington state and see Mt Rainier from my hometown on a regular basis, so this was an obvious pick for me if you knew me. The descriptive destruction scenes are what really blew my mind along with the near constant action. This is a disaster thriller through and through and will definitely please those from Washington state. Such a fun book
November 13, 2016
Great story and writing!
A very heart-wrenching and we'll editing book. Thanks to the author. This should encourage people to consider carefully where they they childhood homes and also cause builders to make the homes better able to witches e tremendously weather. Will cost more it saving their lives is the important issue!
A very heart-wrenching and we'll editing book. Thanks to the author. This should encourage people to consider carefully where they they childhood homes and also cause builders to make the homes better able to witches e tremendously weather. Will cost more it saving their lives is the important issue!
June 13, 2016
Hope it never happens!
An attention grabbing story that is hard to put down. The trials of the main characters were sufficient to overwhelm survivalist, but these characters made you root for them to survive.
An attention grabbing story that is hard to put down. The trials of the main characters were sufficient to overwhelm survivalist, but these characters made you root for them to survive.
June 15, 2016
Erupts!
This book covers all bases. It is a thought-provoking, educational, horrifying, suspenseful, and uplifting story. It gives an overall view from the standpoint of government officials to ordinary citizens. A not to be missed book.
This book covers all bases. It is a thought-provoking, educational, horrifying, suspenseful, and uplifting story. It gives an overall view from the standpoint of government officials to ordinary citizens. A not to be missed book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews