4.03
Part of "The General" series
"The Forge" by S.M. Stirling is the first book in the "Emberverse" series, also known as the "Change" series. The story is set in the early 21st century, after a mysterious event called "The Change" has caused all modern technology to cease functioning. The world is plunged into a new era of medieval-style society, where survival becomes the primary concern. The protagonist of the story is Rudi Mackenzie, a young man who is the son of a powerful clan chief in the Pacific Northwest. Rudi is a skilled warrior and leader, who sets out on a journey to find the source of The Change and restore technology to the world. Along the way, he encounters a diverse cast of characters, including a group of Christian monks, a band of nomadic traders, and a group of pagan warriors. Stirling's world-building is one of the standout elements of "The Forge." He creates a vivid and believable post-apocalyptic world, filled with detailed descriptions of the new societies that have arisen in the wake of The Change. The characters are well-developed and relatable, and the plot is fast-paced and engaging. One of the themes of the book is the importance of community and cooperation in the face of adversity. The various groups that Rudi encounters all have their own unique cultures and ways of life, but they are all united in their struggle to survive in a world that has been forever changed. "The Forge" is a thrilling and thought-provoking read that will appeal to fans of both science fiction and fantasy. It is a powerful exploration of what it means to be human, and the lengths to which people will go to protect and provide for the ones they love. Whether you're a fan of Stirling's other works or new to his writing, "The Forge" is a book that is sure to leave a lasting impression...
Cormac McCarthy
The Road
For readers who enjoyed the bleak and unforgiving world of 'The Forge', 'The Road' is a must-read. This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel tells the story of a father and son trying to survive in a post-apocalyptic wasteland, where ash blankets the sky and society has collapsed.
Learn MoreS.M. Stirling
Dies the Fire
If you enjoyed 'The Forge' and its blend of post-apocalyptic setting and historical weaponry, you'll love 'Dies the Fire'. This is the first book in the 'Emberverse' series, where a mysterious event causes technology to cease functioning, plunging the world into a new dark age. The story follows a group of survivors as they navigate this changed world and rediscover the value of medieval crafts and combat skills.
Learn MoreDavid Brin
The Postman
Fans of 'The Forge' will appreciate 'The Postman' for its post-apocalyptic setting and exploration of hope and community in a broken world. The story follows a drifter who stumbles upon the remnants of the US Postal Service and uses it to bring people together and rebuild society after a global catastrophe.
Learn MorePat Frank
Alas, Babylon
If you're looking for a classic post-apocalyptic novel similar to 'The Forge', 'Alas, Babylon' is an excellent choice. The story follows a group of survivors in a small Florida town after a nuclear war, as they struggle to rebuild their lives and community in the face of scarcity and danger.
Learn MoreStephen King
The Stand
Fans of 'The Forge' will appreciate the epic scope and post-apocalyptic setting of 'The Stand'. This massive novel tells the story of a group of survivors after a deadly virus wipes out most of the world's population, and their struggle to rebuild society and confront an evil force that threatens to destroy what's left.
Learn MoreSuzanne Collins
The Hunger Games
While 'The Hunger Games' is a young adult novel, readers of 'The Forge' will appreciate its dystopian setting and exploration of survival and resistance. The story follows a young girl named Katniss Everdeen who volunteers to take her sister's place in a brutal televised competition where children fight to the death.
Learn MorePeter Heller
The Dog Stars
Readers who enjoyed the poetic prose and introspective nature of 'The Forge' will find much to love in 'The Dog Stars'. This novel tells the story of a man named Hig who survives a flu pandemic and lives in a small airplane hangar with his dog, Jasper. The story explores themes of loneliness, survival, and the search for meaning in a post-apocalyptic world.
Learn MoreR.A. Salvatore
The Crystal Shard
If you enjoyed the sword-and-sorcery elements of 'The Forge', 'The Crystal Shard' is a great choice. This is the first book in the 'Icewind Dale Trilogy', and tells the story of a young barbarian named Wulfgar who becomes the apprentice of a powerful
Learn More