Review of A Time After the Apocalypse

[kathleenking]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "A Time After the Apocalypse" by Aaron Bennett.]

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4 out of 5 stars

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In A Time After the Apocalypse by Aaron Bennett, we are introduced to a version of Earth 150 years after a robot invasion. Our main characters, Mark and Kat, have been struggling to survive since childhood by selling scraps and tools from ruined cities in exchange for food and water. Recently, they have noticed new types of robots emerging, with brand new exteriors and technology. An unexpected robot attack on a nearby village catapults our young protagonists into a race to figure out where these new robots are coming from and what their objective may be. Along the way, they meet an unlikely ally and their worlds are flipped upside down.

Bennett did an excellent job of writing compelling and engaging characters, as well as immersive environments throughout this story. Kat is particularly fleshed-out as a character. While she has character growth across the book, her defining characteristics remain solid: her draw to the color pink, fascination with the world pre-invasion, and love of video games. We even see hints of these traits while fighting hordes of robots. Bennett is especially strong in action scenes. These confrontations are remarkably visual while not straying into comic book territory.

Unfortunately, pacing was a concern for this book. There were several flashbacks that were not labeled, sometimes even in the middle of a chapter, causing a lot of confusion. In addition, the plot slowed to a crawl when not in action scenes. This left very little time for the big reveals toward the end of the book, making them feel rushed and unsatisfying. While it was great to see the interactions between Mark and Kat on days where very little action was happening, some of this time could have been allocated to the progression of the plot. Because the pacing detracted from the excellent character and world-building, I would rate this book a 4 out of 5. This book would appeal to lovers of slower, more domestic sci-fi.

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A Time After the Apocalypse
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[Ariadna Blue]

I've been wanting to read this book for a while now, and even more now that I've read this review! Although, I'll try to take in mind all those little critics while doing it.

[NetMassimo]

I'm not sure I want to read another post-apocalyptic novel right now. However, despite the issues you mentioned concerning the flashback and their effect on the narrative flow and the pacing, overall, this seems like an engaging story. Thank you for your great review!

[whitney kimberly]

This one honestly feels like a movie I’ve seen before—and I mean that in a good way! I love a good post-apocalyptic storyline, especially when it involves young characters trying to survive in a world that’s totally changed. Your review was super helpful, especially pointing out the strong character development and cool action scenes. I might just dive into this one soon. Thanks for the heads-up and great review!