The Descended

De: Michelle Park Lazette

Narrado por: Lisa Beacom

Monsters rule the surface. Secrets teem in the Underground. And one young woman may be the chosen weapon to destroy them both.

Abandoned by her father years ago, journalist Audrey Kelly now fears her partner is abandoning her, too. He’s blindsided her with the admission he won’t marry her. Embroiled in a heated argument, the couple is interrupted by ferocious beasts crash-landing in Ohio, screeching and attempting to annihilate everyone around them, including Audrey’s partner.

Audrey flees for her life and is rescued by a stranger who whisks her to safety through a hidden red door cut into the side of a mountain. It’s a portal to an underground shelter built by a secretive society, and Audrey is afforded food and a bedroom but is forbidden to explore. A good reporter doesn’t stop just because people say no, however, and when Audrey begins to investigate, she witnesses unsettling things: A man loses his leg only to walk the underground shortly thereafter, and people answer questions she’s never voiced aloud.

When Audrey unearths a crimson folder bearing her name, its secrets begin to peel back truths: Those in the underground harness supernatural powers and have unspeakable connections to her tragedies. What Audrey ultimately unleashes—or doesn’t—will mean the difference between life and death for those closest to her—and for the world.

©2025 Flying Snake Press LLC (P)2025 Flying Snake Press LLC

Post-Apocalyptic Thriller

There are so many things I want to say but I don't want to give away any spoilers!!! This first time novelist, Michelle Park Lazette, knocked it right out if the park!!! Between the love stories, past histories, hidden truths, grotesque monsters, strange people in a very strange place, new relationships on the outside... (I know I'm forgetting something) This book will have you not wanting to put it down, or in my case, to stop listening to it!!! I can not wait for the next book (there better be a next book) because I need a few more answers!!! Totally recommend and have told everyone I know that likes fantasy/thriller, they have to read this!!! Lori Peters Scheidly

Twists and Turns

I loved the twists and turns in this book. It kept me on my toes but it came together so well at the end!

I couldn't stop listening!

This was one of those audiobooks that sucks you in and keeps your attention the entire time you listen. The characters are well thought out and I was left caring deeply about each one of them. The unexpected twists and turns had me not wanting to stop listening for the entirety of the book, and after it was over I was left wanting more.

Audrey and the little girl

Audrey get on my last nerves, she always asking 18 million questions, doing stupid stuff, also that little girl made me so mad, but I know she's a kid it's just when why would you leave to go outside that's so crazy

This debut kept me hooked and on the edge of my seat!

I wasn’t sure what to expect from this book since I’m not a SFF reader but MC Audrey was so relatable from the start I absolutely had to keep reading to find out what who those apocalyptic creatures were, where Mitch had taken her, and was she ever going to find Kevin again?? Yes, it was Sci-Fi but it felt more like an adventure with a bit of mystery and self-discovery.

Strong Debut and Engaging Listen

The Descended did not disappoint! I binged it in one go—it’s interesting, engaging, and surprisingly well-crafted for a debut. The characters are nicely developed, and the pacing keeps the story moving without dragging. Lisa Beacom’s narration adds another layer, keeping you hooked and giving each voice its own personality. A successful first novel and a fun read for fans of the genre!

Overall 4.5/5