Volcanoes, Second Chances, and the Sweetest ’80s Romance
5 out of 5 stars
Out of the Ashes is exactly the kind of audiobook I crave: a blend of heart, history, and high-stakes science. Rita Potter masterfully pulls real events from the 1980 eruption of Mt. St. Helens into a story that feels both educational and deeply personal. I was instantly hooked by Nova ‘Cano’ Kane, a tough, motorcycle-riding volcanologist (who, yes, is aware her name is a little on the nose). She’s called back to the mountain to study its impending eruption, only to run headfirst into her ex, Ally, a geology professor who’s weathering her own personal storm after being diagnosed with MS.
I’ve read plenty of second-chance romances, but this one felt real. The breakup wasn’t a simple miscommunication; it was messy, complicated, and heartbreakingly believable. Watching Cano and Ally navigate the uncertainty of Ally’s illness, the literal threat of volcanic doom, and the push-pull of their old feelings was moving and authentic. The author handles the realities of chronic illness with honesty and care, making Ally’s experience feel so raw and relatable (extra points for the candid inclusion of assistive sex toys—representation matters).
The book doesn’t skimp on volcano facts either, and I’m here for it. From the politics and business interests clashing with scientific caution, to the pure awe and terror of the eruption itself, I found myself hanging on every detail. Rita Potter doesn’t just teach you about volcanoes—she makes you feel the heat, the panic, and the triumph of survival. I definitely had goosebumps during the eruption scenes.
Jessie Elwyn’s narration is a perfect match. She gives Cano her bravado and Ally her vulnerability, all while nailing the tension and emotion. Whether the characters are facing down molten lava or the much softer dangers of rekindled feelings, Elwyn brings it all to life flawlessly.
If you love a romance that’s equal parts brain and heart, set against a backdrop of real-world chaos and a healthy dose of ’80s nostalgia, Out of the Ashes is a must-listen. Five out of five from me, and I’m happily adding this one to my favorites list.
Book Description:
The year is 1980, and Mount St. Helens hasn’t erupted in over one hundred years. Surely, it won’t happen now?
Volcanologist Nova “Cano” Kane is the first to volunteer when the rumblings start, even if it means she’ll have to face her biggest regret. When Cano fled Seattle four years ago, she left behind the woman she’s never been able to forget.
Geology professor Dr. Allison Albright has spent four years learning to live with Multiple Sclerosis and without Nova. Now her ex has waltzed back into Allison’s university and the tension between them is building like that inside the restless mountain.
As the women work together to overcome the limitations of science and short-sighted politicians, they struggle with their past. Is there any way to heal? Move on?
It’s a race against time in this edge-of-the-seat lesbian romance. Which will erupt first—Mount St. Helens or their feelings for each other?
Out of the Ashes by Rita PotterNarrator: Jessie Elwyn
Length: 9 hrs and 42 mins
Published by Tantor Audio on July 14th 2025
Genres: Adventure / Survival, LesFic/Sapphic Fiction
Also by this author: Through the Storms
- Bellosio by John F. Shekleton (Narrated by Ray Montecalvo) - December 2, 2025
- Wake Up, Nat & Darcy by Kate Cochrane (Narrated by Jeremy Carlisle Parker) - November 13, 2025
- Fix Audible’s Virtual Voice Fast: Add “-virtual” to Your Search (2025/2026 Working) - November 9, 2025
