In Deacon Frost's Ashes Fall: Hollow Earth Apocalypse 01, the world ends not with a bang, but with a monstrous eruption from the Earth's core. Pax Callahan, gifted with the ability to transform slain monsters into powerful constructs, fights to protect Jenny and Tala from the horrifying creatures now swarming the ravaged landscape. Volcanoes darken the sky, giant insects infest New York, and a mysterious "System" offers cryptic power boosts. Driven by love and a desperate need to survive, Pax leads his companions into perilous Rifts, battling kaiju and pushing his abilities to their breaking point. His journey is one of brutal survival, fueled by unwavering determination and a love that burns brighter than the apocalyptic fires around him.
Review Ashes Fall
Oh my goodness, Ashes Fall was a wild ride! Deacon Frost has completely outdone himself with this explosive start to the Hollow Earth Apocalypse series. From the very first page, I was hooked. The premise – a post-apocalyptic world where monstrous creatures are emerging from a newly opened Hollow Earth – is brilliantly terrifying, but Frost masterfully balances the horror with moments of genuine levity and humor.
Pax, our protagonist, is fantastic. He's not your typical overpowered hero; he's flawed, driven by love and a fierce determination to protect the women he cares about. His ability to turn defeated monsters into constructs is a unique and creatively executed power, leading to some truly inventive action sequences. The way he grapples with the overwhelming odds, the constant threat, and the sheer scale of the apocalypse felt incredibly believable and made me instantly root for him.
The world-building is phenomenal. Frost doesn't just throw you into the chaos; he takes the time to paint a vivid picture of this ravaged world, creating a compelling atmosphere that's both terrifying and fascinating. The descriptions of the monstrous creatures, the volcanic devastation, and the sprawling, ruined cityscape of New York are incredibly evocative, painting a truly memorable setting. It's clear a lot of thought and effort went into crafting this unique post-apocalyptic world. The mystery surrounding the Hollow Earth itself, and the cryptic System that Pax discovers, adds an intriguing layer of depth and keeps you guessing.
And let's be honest, the action scenes are breathtaking. They're intense, well-choreographed, and visceral, leaving you breathlessly turning the pages to see what happens next. The stakes are consistently high, leaving you constantly on the edge of your seat wondering if Pax and his companions will survive. The cultivation aspects, combined with the system and quests, add another engaging layer, perfectly complementing the intense action.
While some readers might find the focus on the romantic relationships a little heavy-handed at times, I personally found it added a crucial layer of emotional depth and motivation to Pax's actions. His love for Jenny and Tala is a powerful force driving him forward, reminding us that even in the face of unimaginable horror, human connection remains vital. It's this blend of intense action, compelling characters, and thought-provoking world-building that truly elevates Ashes Fall. It's a story that stays with you long after you finish reading. I'm eagerly anticipating the next installment and highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys apocalyptic fiction, strong character development, and a healthy dose of thrilling action. It's a truly exceptional start to a series that promises to be unforgettable.
Information
- Dimensions: 6 x 0.81 x 9 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 359
- Publication date: 2025
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