Five Things to Know Before Reading Fire & Storm

We’re just days away from the release of Fire & Storm (August 1st!), and whether you’re already deep in the world of Echoes of the neXt or just arriving at the Cathedral gates, here are five quick things to know before diving into this emotional, storm-charged novella:

1. This is a standalone story—with depth for returning readers. Fire & Storm takes place before the events of Echoes of the neXt, and it’s written to stand on its own. If you're new, you’ll still follow Elle and Caleb’s journey with ease. If you've read Echoes, you’ll see the emotional and thematic threads woven even deeper.

2. It’s about survival—but also about what we survive for. Yes, there’s action. Yes, there are signal anomalies and urban collapse zones. But at its heart, this is a story about two people learning how to trust again—each other, and themselves.

3. Elle and Caleb are not superheroes—they’re protectors. Ellemental isn’t interested in glory. Fahrenheit doesn’t see himself as a legend. These are two battle-hardened Technomancers trying to keep others alive—and trying, tentatively, to hold on to something human in the process.

4. The novella is a bridge between books. This story fills in the emotional and narrative space between Echoes of the neXt and the upcoming full-length sequel, Burning through the neXt (which, by the way, is already over 50% complete).

5. There will be fire. And rain. And maybe something like hope. If you like slow-burn emotional arcs, vivid action, and just a touch of vulnerable tenderness beneath all the chaos—this one’s for you.

Fire & Storm arrives August 1st. Bring coffee. And maybe a lightning rod.