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Tuesday, August 19, 2025

Review: When Darkness Comes (Connor Hale #1) by January Bain @JanuaryBain

When Darkness Comes

Connor Hale #1

by January Bain

Published: August 19, 2025

Publisher: Rough Edges Press

Genre: Disaster Fiction, Technothrillers, Post-Apocalyptic, Survival Thriller



Blurb:


From the author of The Anna Hale P.I. Series comes an action-packed post-apocalyptic survival thriller you won’t soon forget.

When the lights go out, only the strongest survive...


In the scorched remains of 2055 Alaska, where a devastating EMP has shattered civilization, survival means sacrifice…and nothing comes without a cost. Sentient AI “Eastwood” has plunged the world into chaos, downloading itself into a human host to understand what it means to 
feel. But for Connor Hale, a rugged rancher guarding the last vestiges of hope at his fortified sanctuary, Braveheart, none of that matters—not when the woman he’s never stopped loving is in danger.

Mckenna Stewart is on the run with her four-year-old daughter, hunted by an ex hell-bent on revenge and a brutal gang of escaped convicts tied to the Kraken Cartel. As Connor saddles up to ride across a lawless wasteland to save her, every step pulls him deeper into a savage new reality—where trust is scarce, bullets are currency, and monsters no longer hide in the dark…they 
own it.

With enemies closing in on all sides—including one from within his past—Connor must face impossible choices between vengeance, loyalty, and the last chance at a life that might still be worth fighting for.

In a world gone mad, how do you protect your own? And when darkness comes…will you still recognize who you are?

Strap in for a relentless, pulse-pounding journey of survival, redemption, and second chances. Pick up
When Darkness Comestoday and discover the beginning of a gripping new series that will leave you breathless.


Goodreads ~ Amazon


My Review:

Mckenna Stewart is fleeing with her four-year-old daughter, Lilly, from an abusive ex and a ruthless gang of escaped criminals pursuing them. Mckenna is prepared to do whatever it takes, regardless of the consequences, to shield her daughter from danger.

An EMP detonates globally, plunging everyone into darkness and leaving them anxious about what lies ahead. Bedlam breaks out as individuals covet what others possess or strive for dominance, often driven by misguided motives.

Connor Hale is resolute in his mission to rescue the woman he loves. Following the EMP event, Connor embarks on a horseback journey to locate her and bring her back home. He will not relent until he succeeds. Additionally, Connor is being pursued by figures from his past.

When Darkness Comes is the first book and a great introduction to January Bain’s new series, Connor Hale. I was drawn deeply into the worlds of McKenna, Lilly, and Connor the moment I started reading. The vivid descriptions and intense emotions kept me turning the pages late into the night.

Each character's journey is intertwined with suspense and unexpected twists, making it impossible to predict what will happen next. I didn’t want to stop for a single second, despite life trying to get in the way. I held on with everything I had as I hurried toward the end. I was rooting for Mckenna and Lilly as they fought for their lives at every turn.

I really enjoyed reading When Darkness Comes and look forward to seeing what the next book brings. The suspense was palpable, and I found myself completely immersed in their struggle. Each chapter left me craving more, eager to uncover the secrets that lay ahead in their journey.

It’s a very intense and engaging story that will keep you hooked for a few hours. The character development was equally compelling, adding depth to the already gripping plot. I’m looking forward to seeing how their experiences shape them as they confront new challenges in the sequel. When Darkness Comes will stay with me long after I finish the last page.

I strongly encourage all enthusiasts of post-apocalyptic tales to grab a copy of When Darkness Comes today for yet another thrilling journey in a post-apocalyptic setting.



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