Humanity: After it Happened Book 2

The series is written by an English writer who is fairly good at not using too much English slang. It is based on a novel scenario that is a new twist to the Apostolic narrative. I started out thinking this English setting and slang will drive me crazy but before I was very far into the lst book I was hooked on the characters. A real good read.

Just a damned fine read. Spoiler alert.

This one starts with Dan waking up after being unconscious for two days.

He had gone to the hospital with Steve and Ash to rescue Lexie. They had no problem finding her but were attacked by the bats**t crazy guy who over powered her. The guy cut Steve in the arm and knocked him out. He then attacked Dan. Using Lexi's knife he scored a hit on the left side of Dan's head and face. Blinded by blood Dan used his gun and fired. He kept firing though he couldn't see who he was shooting at. Ash, an Ash Dan told to stay, save his ass when he attacked and chewed the s**t out of the crazy.

Dan dragged the other two out but couldn't find Ash. He's heartbroken, thinking Ash is dead.

Of course Ash is there as well. Wounded by the same knife the crazy used on Dan and Steve. The others found him at a window trying to get at the crazy. A crazy who used the window to escape. A crazy who will die where it all started.

Once Dan is able to move he has a talk with Penny. A Penny who didn't want anyone to go after he and Steve. Seems Penny has lost sight site of the fact that she's the coordinator for home base, not the ruler of home base.

Penny is pissed at Dan but after thinking about it she realizes how right he is. She vows to change her ways.

Leah is doing great as a Ranger. She's one very capable young girl and at thirteen that's just what she is. A young girl. A young girl who has no problem killing in defense of home base. A Leah who never thinks of it as murder. Its protecting those at home base. Leah views Dan as her Father and has nothing but respect for the man and what he does and how he does it.

Dan is still leery about letting Leah out on her own but he knows at some point Leah will be as much a Ranger as Lexi, Steve and the others. She's one very capable young girl and Dan knows it.

Home base now numbers thirty eight and when out gathering supplies they are all on the look out for other survivors. Dan knows they need more gun hands for defense. Almost everyone carries a gun, mostly shotguns. With Winter coming things have slowed down and keeping the home base warm as well as the people at home base warm is on everyone's mind.

Dan along with Joe, Lex and Steve make a run to the police station. Dan knows they need heavier weapons. Guns like Glock's, MP5's and G 36's. Dan is hoping for the upgraded HK 416's as well. They need guns that aren't for pheasant shooting. England being a country having strict laws on guns, the only place he will find these weapons is at a police station or military armory.

They do come back with two G36's, four Glocks, no MP5's but there were a pair of HK416's. Fine guns with new sights which had the telescopic part you could flip to the side to us a holographic sight. They both had torch attachments, however all the guns only had two firing selector settings; safe and automatic. Not really worth the energy expended Dan thought, but better than nothing.

Kyle, the ever lazy Kyle, still wants to be a Ranger. He's a man Dan will never allow to carry a gun. A man who only wants to carry a gun so he appears to be more than he will ever be. Dan tells him no way will he ever be a Ranger. Kyle isn't happy. Not one bit and Kyle will try to kill Dan, fail and leave.

So begins one damned fine read.

This one has Dan, Ash, Leah, Neil, Steve, Lexi, Penny, Kyle, Joe, the rest of home base, a snatch and grab where two women and an injured man are taken by thugs, a Dan, Neil and Ash who rescue them all, Marie and Selena by name, a Marie Dan takes one very special interest in, a Marie who won't give him the time of day, not yet at least, a Marie who turns out to be a Detective Sergeant in the City's Major Investigation Team and a woman with a pyscology degree, she was an investigator but not a gun hand, Selina was a pharmacist student and Paul was an architect, three new people to add to home base, a Kyle who makes it away from home base and stumbles into a group, a group who milk him for all his knowledge of home base, a group who turn Kyle into a dog, a dog in a cage, a dog who is fed when they feel like feeding him, a dog covered in his own s**t, puppies that Joe finds and brings to home base after he had to kill the mother who attacked him, collie puppies that are most welcome, an underground bunker in the South of England that hold virologists, politicians and others, a bunker where they will stay until they feel the danger has passed, a woman who is the only survivor once they open the doors and all the others having caught the disease, a woman who heads North into Scotland and another underground bunker where more scientists are supposed to be a Ranger Joe who crosses into Wales looking for survivors, a Joe who finds three women running from the local despot, a man who fancies himself the King of Wales, King Patrick by name, a Joe who kills on of that mans "boys" who is following them, a King who will be looking for revenge, a Joe who leads one of the "boys" back to the farm, a Lexi who finds two more men who are slaves to a man named Bronson, a Dan and the Rangers who attack and Kill Bronson and all of his men who are little more than slavers, the freeing of his slaves, more people for Home Base, an odd man named Ewan who Dan befriends, a Ewan who's a farmer with loads of know how, know how that really pays off, a Leah who is one helluva Ranger, a young girl ready to lead, a girl Dan teaches how to drive, a raid on the deserted Army base, weapons and ammunition, loads of weapons and ammunition they desperately need, a Penny who is ill, a Penny who dies, a Marie who assumes her position at Penny's request, a man named Rich, a former Royal Marine, a man well trained with years of combat experience, a man with time in the sand pit, a man Dan will approve for Ranger status, an attack by feral dogs and Dan and those at home base doing their best to help others, gather survivors beat the odds and stay alive.

Five Stars.

Josh here again with a short review for this fantastic continuation from book one. Continuing the story right in the middle of the hospital encounter was another great adventure that kept me engaged right to the end.

Let me start this off by focusing on Penny for a moment. This book was a mind-boggling twist/turn scenario for Penny with the various situations she found herself in. I hope to avoid spoilers but I had a very mixed set of emotions throughout the book about her which calmed down in the middle and were very elevated about 3/4 of the way through. This is one character that was very dynamic in terms of character development and complexity.

The next character interactions which drew me in was the introduction of Marie to Dan. This introduced a new dynamic for the group as I was immediately drawn to her, much like Dan, with her sarcasm in the face of imminent danger. She brought about another welcome addition to the group and I am interested to see how this develops later in the series.

The major characteristic of this story, and one that draws me in to the post-apocalyptic genre and is a symbol for me of a well-develop series, is that of the focus on the nature of humanity (hence the title of the book). Devon did a fantastic job of really latching on to those characteristics of our personality that are only brought to the forefront by disaster and/or significant challenges/threats. Watching as the group members settle into their roles, adapting to their new style of living, was fun to listen to. All of the nitty-gritty details really come out when the society we once knew ceases to exist.

The final thing I want to mention is that Devon addressed one area I have not seen addressed elsewhere in a post-apocalyptic book and that is what happens to the animals. I am not going to give away what happened, but the dog scene was definitely a big wow factor for me. Many seem to leave out what happens to those animals who have become accustom to living as house pets, especially when they are left without someone to care for them.

This was easily another 5/5 performance (both in writing and audio narration by R.C. Bray). I can’t wait for the book 3/4 publisher’s pack to be released. The journey is only bound to get better. Very well done, Mr. Ford. I am glad this series finally made it into audiobook form.

As I was completely engrossed reading the first four books of the After It Happened series this week, I did not do individual reviews. The past four days I have done only what I HAD to do, because I didn't want to stop reading. All I can say is 'Wow', what a great ride! I thoroughly enjoyed each book, getting to know each main character better as their stories progressed, and finding out what happened next. Sadly this morning I awoke to finish Hope with my coffee and then realized I would probably have to wait patiently until December for the next installment, sigh.

Having become very fond of dystopian stories, pandemics and world's end novels the past year, I place Mr. Ford in my top 5 favorite authors in this category. I feel like I almost know each character and try to predict their reactions, I feel their emotional pain, I trust them to be good, honorable people who often have to do difficult things to survive. There are plenty of good guys and bad guys, gun fights, everyday struggles and the will to survive to keep anyone who enjoys this type of story to become thoroughly engaged. The plots are really exciting, the characters interesting, and the writing good. Not a lot of cussing and very little sex should please some readers, and not too much gore for most people. I recommend these books to anyone who enjoys reading this type of stories, very engrossing. I'm happy to have found a new author to read. You left us with two cliff hangers Mr. Ford, but I'm sure the next book will start right where the last left off as the last four have done.

The thought process this one group went through about the things they needed to accomplish for their survival was interesting. Learning how they set up their society after the world died around them and the chores they each did to make their group successful; well fed, comfortable, and safe with good food, shelter, health care and security makes you wonder if it would really be possible for people to work together for the common good. I expect it won't last long. I've enjoyed the characters, they seem well thought out. I'm looking forward to seeing where the story takes them. This story is well worth your time and you might learn some things along the way.

Seriously, this was probably THE most sexist book I've ever read. Don't get me wrong, I love dystopian fiction and honestly, I don't have that high of standards for it.
I appreciate meaty, 3D characters with well rounded personas that allow a story to demonstrate a well developed plot with realistic, varying levels of perspective...but in this series, the author's limited world view and ignorance seeps through. He attempts to dress it up like humility and "telling it like it is," but he only succeeds in patronizing his readers and conveying flat stereotypes as a stand in for realistic characters. The author betrays his masochistic, sexist, discrimitory world view. Doesn't make for a talented writer capable of classics or best-sellers. Go back to the drawing board after gaining some world exposure my man.

This guy's in LOVE with guns and 4x4s !! Females are of value only if they can follow orders (his) and shoot yes again GUNS and drive 4x4s. If you are up for long long long descriptions of guns and 4x4s and very little else these are your books. If not (yawn) pass on these. So bad I accidentally returned when I was 90% done and then decided I really did not care how it ended. That's a first, can usually slog thru to the end.

Dan, Leah, Neil, Penny, Kate, Sera, Lexi, Joe, Ana, et al. and a continuing-to-expand retinue of characters continue their post-pandemic English countryside survival-of-the-species adventures. Despite the large cast of characters (this reader has a list with names and brief descriptions #ing >40), the well-being of all keeps this reader turning the (e-book) pages. Unlike in some books in the Action/Adventure PA genre, HUMANITY's protagonists occasionally 'miss a shot' 'ignore a warning' or are 'caught unawares' - This has not proved tragic .... yet ..... This reader thinks that may change in Book 3, which I am starting right n.....

This end of days story takes place in England. After the first book where you get to meet the main characters and how they find each other and set up their own version of a new society. You become invested and find you really care for these people. It is very exciting and informative. I loved this book and cannot wait to read the next book

A great continuation of book 1 with a cohesive growth in both the overall story as well as in new characters. So far this series has exceeded my expectations in creating a post apocalyptic world that is potentially the most plausible of any I have come across in any other books of this genre. Can't wait to start the next book in the series!

Great read. Very detailed in the explanation of who, what and why of the survivors actions. All plausible and you stop occasionally to wonder at the survivor's resilience. All in all a very engrossing novel and makes you look for the next book. The story does have a confusing aspect in that it is written in English, which can be a challenge to someone whose primary language is American.

If you're looking for an action packed zombie apocalypse read this is not it. This book reads more like a how to thrive during the apocalypse. The characters are real, interesting, full of humanity as well as inhumane. The author does a great job allowing the reader to get into the mind and hearts of the main characters. I enjoy watching each of them grow physically, intellectually and emotionally. Can't wait to continue the story in book III

Seriously, this was probably THE most sexist book I've ever read. Don't get me wrong, I love dystopian fiction and honestly, I don't have that high of standards for it.
I appreciate meaty, 3D characters with well rounded personas that allow a story to demonstrate a well developed plot with realistic, varying levels of perspective...but in this series, the author's limited world view and ignorance seeps through. He attempts to dress it up like humility and "telling it like it is," but he only succeeds in patronizing his readers and conveying flat stereotypes as a stand in for realistic characters. The author betrays his masochistic, sexist, discrimitory world view. Doesn't make for a talented writer capable of classics or best-sellers. Go back to the drawing board after gaining some world exposure my man.

This guy's in LOVE with guns and 4x4s !! Females are of value only if they can follow orders (his) and shoot yes again GUNS and drive 4x4s. If you are up for long long long descriptions of guns and 4x4s and very little else these are your books. If not (yawn) pass on these. So bad I accidentally returned when I was 90% done and then decided I really did not care how it ended. That's a first, can usually slog thru to the end.

Dan, Leah, Neil, Penny, Kate, Sera, Lexi, Joe, Ana, et al. and a continuing-to-expand retinue of characters continue their post-pandemic English countryside survival-of-the-species adventures. Despite the large cast of characters (this reader has a list with names and brief descriptions #ing >40), the well-being of all keeps this reader turning the (e-book) pages. Unlike in some books in the Action/Adventure PA genre, HUMANITY's protagonists occasionally 'miss a shot' 'ignore a warning' or are 'caught unawares' - This has not proved tragic .... yet ..... This reader thinks that may change in Book 3, which I am starting right n.....

This end of days story takes place in England. After the first book where you get to meet the main characters and how they find each other and set up their own version of a new society. You become invested and find you really care for these people. It is very exciting and informative. I loved this book and cannot wait to read the next book

Love England just not so much their differences in speech, food,etc. I thought at best this would just be a filler series until something better came along. Was I ever wrong!
After the first chapter I was hooked! The storyline is great (don't need zombies for everything) and I love the characters. They are really fleshed out well.
Love the parts of their growing community and how well they've worked together to build their little society.
Kudos to the author. He has written a wonderful trilogy. And now I shall add him to my best authors list....?

A great continuation of book 1 with a cohesive growth in both the overall story as well as in new characters. So far this series has exceeded my expectations in creating a post apocalyptic world that is potentially the most plausible of any I have come across in any other books of this genre. Can't wait to start the next book in the series!

Great read. Very detailed in the explanation of who, what and why of the survivors actions. All plausible and you stop occasionally to wonder at the survivor's resilience. All in all a very engrossing novel and makes you look for the next book. The story does have a confusing aspect in that it is written in English, which can be a challenge to someone whose primary language is American.

If you're looking for an action packed zombie apocalypse read this is not it. This book reads more like a how to thrive during the apocalypse. The characters are real, interesting, full of humanity as well as inhumane. The author does a great job allowing the reader to get into the mind and hearts of the main characters. I enjoy watching each of them grow physically, intellectually and emotionally. Can't wait to continue the story in book III

What a great series. I tore through them. A great character spectrum. Not TOO many deus ex machina (you do need a few to move plot along and not have everyone die immediately). I really liked the focus on community and rebuilding a society in the first books. The transition to a more mission oriented story in the later books was believable and justified given the story arc direction. A+, can't wait for Rebellion to come out!

I absolutely love the realism in the characters! This book is a unique twist on many other post-apocalyptic series (that seem to focus exclusively on EMP-type events). This gives the characters some unique opportunities and it's fascinating to see how they work out their problems in this new world. Well-written and well-edited, this book is a pleasure!

Continuation of the series, this is Book #2. Kudos to Mr. Ford, he managed to keep our main man, Dan, from becoming a blow hard,know-it-all. Too often in these type books the main character becomes an insufferable superman by the second installment.The story continues with our survivors are setting up their home & farm. There are enough moments of suspense to keep all the "hunting & gathering" from getting dull.
I'm off to get book #3.

Page turner. Would have given it five stars but for the annoying technical mistakes regarding weapons. Just two examples - For the 10,000th time - GLOCKS DON'T HAVE EXTERNAL SAFETIES! And most experts believe that magazine springs weaken from repeatedly unloading and reloading them - NOT by keeping them loaded. Research should be an important consideration for authors who want to inject technical weapons info into their stories!

The premise is believable and the characters are engaging enough to keep the reader engrossed. The story line is somewhat predictable after a few novels but not enough to keep you from reading on. There's always a wrinkle or two to keep it interesting.

Very entertaining thank you so much for this purely enjoyable book. I really enjoyed the story and look forward to starting book 3. There were times that the story was so captivating that I could not put it down, and more than once I asked that we turn off cable so I could read this novel which was tar more entertaining than Any of the 300 plus channels we subscribe to.

Enjoyed this series immensely. It started out with less character development than I like but I think that was due to the introduction of so many of the key players in the first book. I held on and kept reading and I am very glad I did! Like was stated in other reviews, the epilogue in book 3 will take your breath away. Thank goodness there is a book 4 coming though!

I would like to recommend this book to anyone who wants to read a very interesting and exciting book where the action never stops. I am finding these books to be very difficult to put down. I will be looking forward to reading the next book from this author.

Fantastic series! This is the 3rd time through for me and I highly recommend! The characters are well developed and believable, the lead is so clearly painted for us that you have no issues investing in him. Military and action scenes well done! Love it. Truly hope this series continues for a bit!

Well written sequel that shows the potential of small groups establishing a self-sufficient society, that without bureaucracy getting in the way, can provide for themselves and develop. Also, as mentioned in a review of the first book, spell and grammar check was done before release. Thank you!

Really enjoyed the first book, and this sequel. Already read # 3 and # 4,now just waiting for # 5 to come out. Read a lot, and I mean a lot of this genre and think this is one of the better ones. As others have said, intersting from the Brit point of view.

This second book in the series is more fast paced and details recovering some sort of daily life after much of humanity has died. As always there are bad guys and evil must be addressed. The main characters continue to grow and come into their own..

Some authors like some musicians struggle with their second book (album). But not this one.
The story continues strongly, adding new characters and developing existing ones.
Some surprises in this one which only added to the level of enjoyment.

I was interested in discovering the characters true nature as time went on...I kept reading and reading until the end came and I was so surprised! Couldn't believe it was over because I just wanted it to go on & on. Needless to say, I am ready for Book 3 and the Kyle storyline!

This one was very interesting. I did enjoy how the groups take unfolds. It's also good that they are shown without constant threats in every chapter. Not many can pull that off and still make a good story.

Devon C Ford gives us a thought-provoking look at a world hoping to rebuild. Action abounds but so does a recognition of what will be needed to come back from the worst. Read this series and feel what could be coming!!

Great follow up, although making this a series rather than just a longer book is likely a money thing. Nevertheless an enjoyable read. Well written and engaging. Wonderful premise with the promise of more to come.