10 Best Post Apocalypse Books 2025 in the United States

The 'Slow Burn Box Set: The Complete First Saga' by Bobby Adair is an extensive collection of post-apocalyptic audiobooks spanning over 55 hours. The setting is richly detailed, immersing listeners into a gripping world ravaged by a zombie apocalypse. This setting lays the groundwork for a dark and suspenseful atmosphere that is typical of the genre. The character development is a strong point, with complex and evolving characters that engage the listener through their struggles and growth in a harsh, new world. Each character is given ample time to develop, which adds depth and relatability to the story.

The plot complexity is well-handled, with intertwining storylines that keep the listener hooked. There are plenty of twists and turns to maintain interest, though at times, the pacing can be a bit slow, reflecting the series' title. Themes of survival, human resilience, and morality are well-explored, offering thought-provoking moments amid the action. The writing style is accessible and straightforward, making it easy for listeners to follow the story without getting bogged down by overly complex language. However, some might find the narrative style and pacing inconsistent at times.

Phil Thron's narration is another highlight, bringing the characters and the eerie setting to life with his engaging voice work. This box set is ideal for fans of post-apocalyptic and dystopian fiction looking for a long, immersive listening experience. On the downside, the sheer length of the series might be daunting for some, and the slower pacing may not appeal to everyone. Those who enjoy detailed world-building and character-driven stories will likely appreciate this saga.

The Complete Age of Embers Series (Books 1-5) by Ryan Schow is a comprehensive post-apocalyptic EMP survival thriller available as an unabridged audiobook narrated by Kevin Pierce. The setting of the series is a bleak, post-apocalyptic world devastated by an EMP (Electromagnetic Pulse) attack, which adds a layer of realism and urgency to the survival elements. The vivid descriptions of the desolate landscapes and the struggles of the characters help immerse listeners in this dystopian world. Character development is a strong point, with well-rounded protagonists who evolve throughout the series, facing moral dilemmas and personal growth as they navigate the harsh new reality.

The plot is complex and multi-layered, weaving together various storylines and subplots that keep the listener engaged over the extensive 49-hour runtime. Themes such as survival, humanity, and resilience are explored in depth, providing thought-provoking content that resonates with fans of the genre. The writing style is accessible, with a good balance between action-packed sequences and introspective moments, making it easy for listeners to follow along. Kevin Pierce's narration adds another dimension to the story, with his clear and expressive voice enhancing the experience.

However, some listeners might find the length daunting, and the pacing can be slow at times due to the detailed world-building and character exploration. Additionally, the series' heavy focus on survivalist elements might not appeal to those looking for a more action-driven narrative. Despite these minor drawbacks, The Complete Age of Embers Series is a solid choice for fans of post-apocalyptic fiction who enjoy in-depth storytelling and richly developed characters.

The Last Survivors Box Set offers a comprehensive journey through a post-apocalyptic world, spanning six books with a total listening time of over 50 hours. The setting is richly detailed, immersing listeners in a devastated world where survival is a constant struggle. This vivid environment effectively captures the essence of a post-apocalypse scenario, which is a strong point of the series. Character development is another highlight; the authors, Bobby Adair and T.W. Piperbrook, do a commendable job of evolving characters over the course of the series. Listeners can follow the protagonists' growth and challenges, making them more relatable and engaging.

The plot complexity is moderate, with a mix of predictable and surprising elements. While some listeners may find the storyline straightforward, others might appreciate the balance between action and introspection. The themes explored in the series include survival, humanity, and resilience, which are well-suited for the genre. However, the writing style might not appeal to everyone; it is straightforward and functional, but may lack the literary flair that some readers prefer.

Narration by Sean Runnette is consistent and clear, enhancing the overall listening experience. Despite some repetitive plot points and a writing style that could benefit from more nuance, this box set is a solid choice for fans of the post-apocalyptic genre who enjoy detailed world-building and character-driven stories.