Review of If We Survive This by A. B. R.
When I first heard about If We Survive This, I was instantly intrigued by the premise—a young, anxious protagonist navigating a world ravaged by a rabies mutation and faced with the added weight of her neurodivergent experience. The author, A. B. R., deftly pulls you into Flora’s tumultuous journey, making this story about survival and personal growth feel deeply relatable. As someone who struggles with anxiety, I was eager to dive into this novel and explore how Flora’s experiences mirrored my own.
At its core, If We Survive This is so much more than just a survival narrative; it’s a poignant coming-of-age tale infused with themes of identity, resilience, and the unbreakable bonds of family. Flora’s journey alongside her injured brother, Cain, serves as a compelling exploration of strength beneath vulnerability. The dual timelines—“Now” and “Then”—beautifully unravel the family’s backstory, adding layers to each character’s motivations and struggles. I found myself particularly captivated by the representation throughout the novel; A. B. R. showcases a diverse cast that includes neurodivergent, LGBTQ+/trans, and Hispanic characters. Watching these characters evolve, bond, and ultimately fight for each other in the wake of a seemingly heartless apocalypse was both rewarding and heartwarming.
A. B. R.’s writing style is engaging—though I did notice some areas where the narration felt a bit flat. As I listened to the audiobook narrated by the author herself, I appreciated the personal touch but occasionally felt that Flora’s emotional distance translated into the delivery. However, considering Flora’s backstory and her struggle with being deemed "too emotional," this could easily have been a deliberate choice to embody her reserved nature. I’m left wondering—did this choice enhance the storytelling or detract from it? Either way, it sparked a deeper contemplation that lingered long after I closed the book.
The emotional weight of the narrative often resonates through its impactful scenarios that highlight humanity amidst chaos. For instance, scenes where Flora grapples with her own mental health amid the urgency of survival are both powerful and thought-provoking. One of the lines that stood out to me was, “Even in the darkest corners, we still found pieces of ourselves worth holding onto.” It encapsulates not just Flora’s journey, but the heart of the entire story—hope and identity thriving even in despair.
If you’re a fan of character-driven dystopian fiction—stories that delve deep into the emotional and psychological landscapes of their protagonists—If We Survive This is absolutely worth your time. The mix of adventure, inner conflict, and growth creates an experience that resonates, no matter your age.
Reading this novel was more than just entertainment for me; it was a reminder of the strength that can be found in vulnerability, and how crucial connection with others is, especially when the world feels unbearably isolating. I anticipate that long after my initial reading, Flora will continue to linger in my thoughts, a testament to A. B. R.’s masterful storytelling. So grab your copy, whether in print or audiobook—you’ll find a journey that challenges and uplifts in equal measure.