Aftermath

Title: Aftermath: Nomads, Pirates and Frogfaces
Author: S.L. Ferreira
Publisher: iUniverse
ISBN: 978-1-49177-620-9
Pages: 282
Genre: Science Fiction

Reviewed by: Lisa Brown-Gilbert

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A narrative built with a strong emotional allure, author S.L. Ferreira’s science fiction based debut, Aftermath: Nomads, Pirates and Frogfaces, gently draws readers into the lives of survivors struggling to live on a drastically different and harsh, post-apocalyptic earth. Taking place during the years after a ferocious alien invasion, this often heart wrenching story of survival and courage, delves deep into the heart of human nature and relationships during a time of extreme duress. The survivors not only face the invading aliens as an enemy, but also other predatory humans, along with battling with their own internal struggles.

Constantly on the move from the slow advancing but pervasive alien hordes called Frogfaces, the survivors move in collective groups called nomads. Nomads are eclectic groups that are ethnically and culturally varied, drawn together by a kinship based on survival. The overall story focuses on the experiences of a particular nomadic group headed by ex-biology teacher, Albert, who along with his son and a few others struggle to survive their unpleasant but necessary circumstances.

Portraying a world teeming with terrors, author Ferreira adds another dimension to the horrific circumstances faced by the nomads, as the groups of mainly peaceful nomads do not account for all of the surviving humans. Also present, is a predatory and extremely violent group, called pirates, who rape, pillage, and murder the survivors that they come across.

Albeit, their situation almost seemingly hopeless, adventure flows as the nomads are being forced to run from a safe-hold, encounter another larger and more organized group of nomads headed by a well- liked and respected leader Julia. This encounter turns out to be especially important because of their plans for the salvation of all the survivors and the ultra-convenient blessings they bestow in the form of the many sorely missed and life-saving amenities they need. Fresh foods, including baked bread, places with running water, electricity and beer making equipment which at times seems almost too good to be true for a story of this nature. Told to head towards the coast, Albert and his group leave and encounter other nomadic groups, some friendly others not so much. What I found to be especially interesting was the encounter with a megalomaniac, religious zealot.

While there is some action presented in the story, such as the battles with the pirates, the fierce pack and run from the aliens and encounters with other nomadic groups, what particularly stands out within this story is the psychological and emotional aspects. Focusing on issues of the human condition, the story addresses children forced to grow up quickly, gun violence, racism, familial challenges, and loneliness, lust, and hierarchy challenges. Also, included are many moments of wistful contemplation of circumstances with people reminiscing about life as it was before the invasion. Missing the amenities, the luxuries and the simplicities of their prior lives the story initially, carries a strong sentimental undertow and at times a permeating sadness that is palatable.

Overall,  Aftermath is a good science fiction read, which fans of this genre will find appealing.  Author Ferreira put together a story that I found to be creative, entertaining and skillfully inclusive of successful science fiction elements. However, in bringing the element of hope for the future to this story is somewhat reminiscent of other post- apocalyptic tales within which characters struggle formidable enemies and their own humanity.