A review by jareadforfilth
All That's Left in the World by Erik J. Brown

adventurous challenging dark emotional funny hopeful inspiring sad tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

There are not enough words to describe just how wonderful this book is. This book is exceptionally well-rounded with so much action, tension, suspense, fear and yet a bounty of heart, humor, hope, compassion. As far as post-apocalyptic romances go, I think this one truly has absolutely everything. Especially coming off the back end of COVID, there was a potential for this to feel cliché, but I think Brown beyond exceeded in creating a separate viral apocalypse, largely because he created this idea years before the pandemic. Yet, the sensitivity given to COVID is overt and appreciated,  yet not distracting.

There was not a single moment where it felt as though anything was extraneous or unnecessary. Jamie and Andrew are both such incredible characters, I adored them both with my whole heart and they create an incredible partnership together. The trials they face together and the way they balance and ground each other? I cant stop gushing, the friendship and romance is just so sweet and you can really feel the depth.

I love the attention given to the types of people who may survive the apocalypse—most awful, some wonderful, yet all fighting for their survival and they all felt like people as opposed to straight archetypes. Additionally, the spotlight given to persisting queer oppression deserves a shoutout.

If you’re looking for an immaculate romance with grit, action, and more heart than should be able to fit within 338 pages, look no further 👏🏻👏🏻
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