In Ashes of Dawn

Rolling Hills Ranch #2

by S.A. Ashburne

I thought I was finally learning to live again.

For the first time in years, I’m allowing myself to believe in more than just survival. Adrian, Theo, and Kenji give me hope—a glimmer of possibility that I can move forward, that maybe, just maybe, I deserve happiness.

But Rolling Hills is changing, and not for the better. Strange things are happening—more zombies, things going missing, more deaths—and I can’t help but wonder if the peace we’ve built is about to crumble.

Every time I think I can take a step forward, the ground beneath me crumbles. I want to believe we can have a future, but how do you keep hope alive when everything in this world wants to crush it?

Can I protect the people I care about without losing myself in the process? Or will everything I’m trying to hold on to slip away once again?

*This is a full-length, 120k+ word book that contains content for those 18+ and may contain some material that readers may find difficult. Please read the trigger warnings at the start of the book. This is part two of a two-part duet and is a why choose romance, meaning the heroine will not have to choose between the three heroes. HEA guaranteed! Please read book one before picking this one up.

Genres: Why Choose

502 pages, Paperback

First published April 15, 2025

Reviews

[Kyra Leigh · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm not typically a romance reader, but I've been getting more into it recently, and after the cliffhanger of the first book, I was ready to dive into this. I am so happy to see an end to Farron and her guys' story, although a little heartbroken that they won't be the main focus in the next book. I enjoyed all the action that happens in this book. Each character is so well developed. Theo, Adrien, and Kenji are major book babes!! All of this was so well written, and it had a great story without the spicy scenes completely taking over, even though the spicy scenes were well written too—lots of spice.

[Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book picks up right where Beneath Dark Skies left off and if you’re reading these books back to back that’s perfectly fine. However, it’s been a while for me, so it took me a bit to remember what was going on. Thank you S.A. Ashburne for the arc.

Rolling Hills Ranch series is apocalypse meets cowboys. The book still gives off The Walking Dead, specifically the Hershel Greene Family Farm setting. And since that was one of my favorite settings – I found myself immersed in In Ashes of Dawn. Buuut, I still wish there was more scenes with zombies because at times it can come off as if it’s just a secluded ranch lifestyle.

Farron’s relationships developing with the boys was absolutely heartwarming. Though I’m still iffy on Kenji – he’s committed; however, I just feel like he doesn’t fit with all of them. What I do love is that Farron and other members of the ranch are making an effort to learn ASL for Theo.

There’s a few character deaths that had me absolutely shocked. One in particularly I felt like it went a bit far… like that character was super important and now they’re just not there?! But, I guess not everyone can survive the zombie apocalypse.

Loved their late night shenanigans around the campfire. Those were the moments that I felt as if I was able to connect with the characters the most.

Towards the end of In Ashes of Dawn, there’s a twist with Farron’s twin, Holden, and I kinda like how that was brought in. It makes me quite excited for book 3 – I can’t wait to see where that story goes because I know it’s going to be wild!

Read if you like:
🧟Zombie Apocalypses
🐎Found Family
🧟Why Choose
🐎Ranch/Cowboy Life
🧟Deaf Representation
🐎Multi-Pov, Past & Present

[Ash (so there’s this book) · Rating 2 out of 5]

Genre: Adult Apocalyptic Romance
Spice: 3/5 🌶️
*spice ratings are relative to similar books in the same genre*
(3/5 means that this book has average spice for why choose)

The Catalog: MFMM, zombie apocalypse, forced proximity, hurt/care, sunshine MMC & grumpy MMC, Deaf representation, food as a love language, slow burn romance, grief, found family, pierced 🍆 (x2)

CWs: gore, violence, gun violence, attempted SA, suicidal ideation, death, grief, (historical) ableism

Thoughts:
Although I really enjoyed book one, I struggled with the pacing in this one, as well as the relationship development between the MCs.

As far as the pacing goes, it felt that many parts were dragged out and the POV switching didn’t always make sense or seem intuitive.

In terms of the romantic development, I had really hoped that the majority of the group’s issues were in book one so that this entire book could be dedicated to their relationship development. That was not the case. Their interpersonal issues continued almost until the end of book two, leaving very little time for them to be a cohesive group.

I did like the resolutions at the end.

[Aislinn · Rating 5 out of 5]

“In Ashes of Dawn” is an incredible finale to Ashburne’s hauntingly romantic Rolling Hills Ranch series.

“In Ashes of Dawn” (IAOD), is, in a word, addicting. I couldn’t put the book down! I believe the best way to enjoy this series is by reading the first one right before you dive into IAOD, which you can now do! The story picks up right whre book one left off, and I love how the reader immediately gets into the mind of the MMCs. We’re able to see firsthand how terrified they are of what’s happened to Farron, as well as how they now have to fight off zombies to stay alive.

Wait, you didn’t forget this was the zombie apocalypse, did you?

Once reunited, Farron and her men make huge strides in their relationship. It wasn’t easy, and for someone who can’t handle a lot of angst, I felt that their romance was realistic and not overtly angst-driven. That being said, I continue to appreciate how each relationship is unique, and that none of the MMCs blend together. When it comes to RH, this isn’t always the case, and Ashburne is able to make three separate, unique characters with three distinct relationships. Adrian (my one refusal is calling him Riri LMAO) is my comic relief character, Theo is my sweet baby who can do no wrong, and Kenji has my whole heart fr. Don’t get me started on him, I KNEW he was going to be worth the wait. If you’re anything like me and you couldn’t wait to see a more spicy side of Kenji, you won’t be disappointed!!

While this is a zombie romance, for the most part, Rolling Hills Ranch is a safe haven. I won’t spoil what happens, but there is a healthy amount of zombies in this story to keep you on the edge of your seat. You might be going into book two having forgotten that this takes place in the apocalypse, but Ashburne won’t let you forget it! Needless to say, my heart was racing during some of these scenes.

Rolling Hills Ranch has such a special place in my heart. Despite the world ending, it’s a safe space, a utopia, among the chaos. Reading this second book felt like visiting old friends, and I absolutely loved this satisfying end to Farron, Adrian, Theo, and Kenji’s love story.

[fae.reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another perfect read by S A Ashburne

It was the perfect close to these characters story! I will miss reading from their perspectives so so much though 🥺 something about Farron and her men were just so comforting!

Kenji really stole the show for me in this one. I love all of them equally, but I was just waiting for my grumpy Kenji to open up more and for Farron to open up to him. Seeing him be so soft & sweet with her was literally everything ♡ Theo as always the resident sweetheart and Adrian always puts a smile on my face. If I was Farron I’d want all of them too ♡

Our 3 gorgeous guys are more open and giving to Farron than ever. The relationship between these four is so soft and sweet and I can’t get enough!!
Plus in this one we get to see some bossy dominant Kenji and I am here for it ♡

There’s so much more to these books than romance though. There’s lots of action in this one! Seeing the little community get justice for their losses was amazing. And emotional! I was on the edge of my seat and bawling my eyes out intermittently throughout the whole book!
♡ These authors are amazing at creating tension and some of the most well written heartfelt scenes I’ve ever read ♡

Thank you for the chance to ARC read this! I adore this series so much already and I’m excited for what’s next xx

[Jadenn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finishing this book was emotional for me as it felt like i'm leaving my comfort place, leaving my newfound family there. The book gave a big emotional rollercoaster ride just to achieve the peace that our main characters deserves that i think was also necessary considering it gave justice to all the struggles they've been through. The book did not even give a pinch of disappointment all throughout the story. It was well written for me with the trauma, suspense, tension, action scenes and the spice. I simply did not love it, i devoured it with all my heart. I can't wait for the next book!

I also want to thank S.A Ashburne for giving me the opportunity to ARC read this amazing story. You're amazing!

[Sylvana · Rating 5 out of 5]

"𝘠𝘰𝘶’𝘷𝘦 𝘴𝘶𝘳𝘷𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘴𝘰 𝘮𝘶𝘤𝘩, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘺𝘰𝘶’𝘷𝘦 𝘬𝘦𝘱𝘵 𝘨𝘰𝘪𝘯𝘨. 𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘵’𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘮𝘰𝘯𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘴. 𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘵’𝘴 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘢𝘨𝘦𝘰𝘶𝘴."

Such a beautiful yet painful story 🥹
It was an amazing ending to this duet. I'm already excited for the next story to come out!! This series deals with a whole lot of emotions, traumas, and intricate relationships. I felt everything that was written down deep whitin my bones

"𝘉𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘥𝘢𝘳𝘬𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘺𝘴. 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘶𝘯 𝘢𝘭𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘦𝘴, 𝘣𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘭𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘥𝘦𝘦𝘱𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘴𝘩𝘢𝘥𝘰𝘸𝘴. 𝘐𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘴𝘩𝘦𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘥𝘢𝘸𝘯, 𝘐 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘻𝘦 𝘸𝘦 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘥 𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘷𝘦𝘴 𝘳𝘦𝘣𝘰𝘳𝘯, 𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘳𝘨𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘯𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘯𝘦𝘸, 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘰𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘳."

"𝘞𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘪𝘵 𝘨𝘦𝘵𝘴 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘷𝘺 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶’𝘳𝘦 𝘴𝘶𝘧𝘧𝘰𝘤𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨, 𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘶𝘴 𝘴𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘸𝘦 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘩𝘦𝘭𝘱 𝘵𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘺𝘰𝘶."

[Joseline Pineda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had to take a break and put it down iykyk also I love the potential new couples and how the other characters are noticing the vibes between them.

[Liz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lost sleep

I lost sleep to finish this duet. It was a gripping read with characters I'm definitely not ready to be done with. Eager for book three!

[Ashlan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ah! Guys! This series is so good! In Ashes of Dawn is the second book to the Rolling Hills series, but the final chapter to our girl Farron’s story. This series is hauntingly beautiful and romantic and suspenseful and I recommend this to everyone!

It’s the characters. I love these characters with my whole heart! Individually yes, but the family unit that these four have found with each other is actually tear-jerking. Farron goes through it in both books; dealing with feelings of guilt and grief that become exasperated with each tragedy these people face. And the boys are there for her every step of the way. And in different ways and that is what I absolutely loved about them.

We do get a bit of a mystery with this one. Something is going on in Rolling Hills and it’s clear someone is sabotaging them. Have outsiders found their little slice of paradise amidst the zombie apocalypse? Or, is one of their own betraying them? Either way the suspense was definitely there with this one.

Yes, this book has zombies, which my little TWD heart loved, but the story stays character-driven and utterly romantic. I recommend this story especially to all my cowboy girlies, but it definitely has something for everyone in there.

Again, what a great conclusion to Farron and the guys story and I am SO GLAD that this series is going to continue, even with different characters, especially because I still have so many questions about the things happening at Rolling Hills. I truly enjoyed these first two books, it’s a phenomenal story, and I definitely recommend you guys check them out! ✌🏻

[leena · Rating 5 out of 5]

YES YES YES

Found the first book on accident, read it so fast I expressed my need for the second right away in the comments on TikTok lol I loved it. Plain and simple. If it’s not for you, so be it. But it’s a LOVE for me and I simply can’t wait to read all the others. Forever a fan now ✨

[Brittany Virostko · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having been captivated by the gripping cliffhanger in Beneath Dark Skies, I eagerly anticipated the release of In Ashes of Dawn by S.A. Ashburne. The wait was well worth it, as this sequel delivers a compelling blend of romance, drama, suspense, and the ever-present threat of zombies, while deftly exploring themes of grief and resilience. The narrative strikes a remarkable balance, keeping readers thoroughly engaged from start to finish.
At the heart of the story is Farron, a deeply relatable protagonist whose struggles resonate with universal human experiences. Her journey through loss and adversity fosters a strong emotional connection with the reader, making her triumphs and vulnerabilities profoundly impactful. The relationships she forges are a highlight of the novel, particularly with the three male characters who each bring distinct qualities to the story. Theo’s tender sincerity, Adrian’s lighthearted humor, and Kenji’s magnetic allure create a dynamic interplay that complements Farron’s growth. These characters are richly developed, each with unique traits that enhance the romantic and emotional depth of the narrative, setting them apart from less nuanced male leads in similar genres.
Ashburne’s storytelling excels in its ability to weave together high-stakes action, heartfelt moments, and intricate character dynamics without losing momentum. The pacing is well-calibrated, ensuring a seamless flow between intense plot developments and quieter, introspective scenes. The setting of the Ranch and its inhabitants adds further intrigue, leaving readers eager to explore more of this world in the upcoming third installment.
In Ashes of Dawn is a standout sequel that delivers on the promise of its predecessor while deepening the emotional and narrative stakes. It is a must-read for fans of post-apocalyptic fiction who crave a story that balances heart-pounding thrills with meaningful character development. I eagerly await the next chapter in this captivating series.

[Dxp · Rating 2 out of 5]

I almost didn’t finish this book which is surprising considering how much I liked the first one.

There are still troubles in the group, the pace is really slow but there is more intimate scenes than the first one, I got the vibe that Kenji was more important than the other MCs which I don’t enjoy in a RH. Theo is a sweetheart. Andrian was very entertaining as well.

Trevor.. well, I actually feel a bit bad for him.
From the first book we see that everyone is cold towards him, they are ignoring him, nobody hangs out with him and yeah I understand that he is incompetent and does nothing right, but I can’t imagine being in a tiny community with everyone disliking me and calling me weird and stupid.

He messed up, of course, cause he was jealous and entitled to the FMC, but I didn’t see her talking to him and telling him crystal clear that she wasn’t interested. He loved her since they were young and even her brother was telling her at the beggining of book 1 to give him a chance.

So, I’d prefer a different plot when it comes to him.. would be more believable if he was brainwashed from the religious group, taking into account that he was not smart, and having him do their bidding (like stealing and letting zombies in the community).

After the Trevor plot, I got super bored. The days are passing slowly and we have long descriptions of each day which was working for me in the first book but not the second.

Overall, I’d say it’s a decent 2.5* book.

[Stephanie Colina · Rating 2 out of 5]

Overall, I found this book extremely tedious, repetitive, and unnecessarily long. While I truly appreciated the emotional development and depth of the characters—especially Farron, who is complex, realistic, and strong—the pacing and structure of the story really dragged. The first 150–200 pages were solid, but everything after Mr. Able’s death felt excessive and predictable. Holden’s involvement seemed forced, and the ending could have been cut entirely without losing impact. The male leads were supportive and well-written, and the way they cared for Farron was genuinely touching. The emotional support, understanding, and unconditional love stood out as the book’s greatest strengths. However, the inner conflict kept looping without real progress, making the story feel like it was going in circles. With tighter editing, it could have been half as long and twice as impactful. I loved Farron’s growth—but no, I didn’t enjoy the book overall.

[Katja · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have to say that it took me longer to get through this one, which is a surprise since I practically devoured the first book.

I'm not sure if it's because everything is happening mostly in one location and it gets repetitive or if it was just so predictable that it didn't piqued my interest as much. However, it was entertaining and filled with a lot of emotional scenes. We also get a good character development of the FMC, while the MMCs don't get one or well at least I didn't notice one.

Overall, this series is worth reading if you are in a mood for some zombie apocalyptic why choose romance with western vibes.

[Simone · Rating 3 out of 5]

When I say that I've been waiting for the Trevor's plotline to run its course since his 2nd appearance, I'm not being hyperbolic. Having to wait so damn long for it and reading all these instances where someone SHOULD have spoken up about him... ugh. He took off a star all on his own because the way his plot was written just dragged out for me.
The other star is due to the ending. That's all we got for this duet? I understand leaving tethers loose for future projects, but the way they were woven so tightly within this duet makes it seem rushed to me that they weren't more fleshed out.

[Sabrina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved it! And I honestly thought this was only meant to be a duology so I’m extra excited for even more books!

Trevor always creeped me out in more than just a clingy guy way so it was no surprise he did what he did. I already know those guys who tried to take Farron are going to find him and he is going to wreak havoc.

I’m so glad the siblings made it to the ranch. I would’ve been so upset if that was just left unresolved. I can feel their tension already.

[Cassidy B · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this duo actually! Super cute concept, love a why choose, enjoyed each dynamic and the set up for continuing the series while still wrapping the main plot up.

Spice level 2/5 for a reverse harem

[Ethel B. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wanted to love it. I like the concept and the characters. You root for them. to me it fell a little flat. give it a try though maybe it's the one for you. Ashborne my beautiful author you. keep going you are doing great. I am so rooting for you.

[Kayli Sahagun · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved how the storyline wrapped up! FINALLY we got to see more of Kenji and Farron’s relationship blossom. And I cannot wait for the third book and to get to know a whole new couple in the same world!

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Now did we have to kill meemaw? ☹️

[Maggie · Rating 2 out of 5]

Meh had to force myself to finish, a lot of the same thing over and over

[Marisa · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5⭐️

Why I read this after not liking the first book… idk. It was still the same slow paced story that I skipped multiple chapters of — will 100% not pick up the next books

[Brooke Phillips · Rating 3 out of 5]

Overall I love a chill read with some drama to break it up. I love the characters in it and did enjoy it. Will be reading the third and can’t wait.

[Jordan Beall · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars bc i still have questions and im impatient :-)

[Jamie · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s a good book I liked it.

[Ella · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gimme the next one…i need itt

[Jodi Ward · Rating 5 out of 5]

I did in fact anticipate the DEVESTATION this time and it was still worth it.

[Jana · Rating 5 out of 5]

I kindly received this as an ARC!


You think you like the first book so much you’re almost suspicious if the second one can live up to your expectations? I had that with this book ngl.

I can confirm it beat all of my expectations, things happened in this book that I don’t think I ever imagined happening in the first book.

My good where to start with this?
So, the storyline - it connects perfectly to how it was left at the end of the first book, LOVED that! I don’t really like having ‚recaps‘ at the beginning of a second on, or flashbacks - this was great!

Character development - I really really enjoyed that, not only for Farron but also for her guys and just about most of the other character (if you‘ve read it - yes I’m talking about THAT couple, glad they got together ;))
The way the whole thing was writing felt very authentic, not pressured at all.
I loved the way they actually talked about their feeling. So many book don’t have that and the whole book they just somehow know how their partner/ partners are feeling?! This book has ACTUAL talking about feelings.

The plot twists, the characters deaths, my god I had to stop reading at some points and just blankly star at a wall and work out my own feelings. Some of these felt like my own heart was breaking damn.


Safe to say I really really enjoyed this book and I am so glad I got to read it in advance.

Can’t wait to read more about Rolling Hills Ranch, we were for sure left with something nice to look forward to at the end of this book!