Step into the pulse-pounding world of The Remaining, where a post-apocalyptic nightmare tests the limits of human survival! D.J. Molles’ gripping series follows Captain Lee Harden, a Special Forces soldier tasked with rebuilding a shattered America after a deadly plague turns most of humanity into ravenous predators. Packed with relentless action, moral quandaries, and a gritty fight for hope, this military thriller hooks readers from the first page.
With its blend of zombie-like horror and tactical survival, The Remaining delivers a fresh take on the apocalypse. Whether you’re a fan of high-stakes adventure or stories that probe the resilience of the human spirit, this series is a must-read. Let’s dive into its origins, themes, and why it continues to captivate fans!
How The Remaining Began
D.J. Molles, a former police officer turned New York Times bestselling author, self-published the first book, The Remaining, in 2012 while balancing a full-time job. Inspired by his love for post-apocalyptic tales and real-world experiences, Molles crafted a story grounded in military realism. His veteran friends and brother provided insights, ensuring authentic combat scenes. The series’ success exploded online, catching the eye of Orbit Books, which re-released the novels to wider acclaim.
Molles’ knack for fast-paced storytelling and complex characters stemmed from his desire to avoid clichés in the zombie genre. He envisioned a world where survival demanded tough choices, not just brute force. This vision, paired with his disciplined six-month release schedule, turned The Remaining into a fan favorite.
The Heart of The Remaining
The series spans six core novels, with standout titles like The Remaining (2012), Aftermath (2012), Refugees (2012), and Extinction (2015). In The Remaining, Captain Lee Harden emerges from a bunker to face a world ravaged by the FURY virus, which transforms people into hyper-aggressive infected. Aftermath sees Lee wounded and teaming with survivors, only to confront a new threat stalking him. Refugees ramps up the chaos as Lee battles warlords and infected alike, while Extinction, the finale, delivers a thrilling climax to his mission.
Themes of honor, sacrifice, and the cost of survival weave through the series. Molles balances heart-pounding action with emotional depth, exploring how far one man will go to protect others. The setting—a crumbling America overrun by infected and power-hungry factions—feels chillingly plausible, thanks to Molles’ detailed world-building. Fans praise the series for its realistic gunplay and flawed, relatable characters, setting it apart from typical zombie fare.
Unlike mindless zombie tropes, the infected in The Remaining are cunning and animalistic, adding unpredictable terror. Lee’s journey isn’t just about fighting monsters—it’s about wrestling with moral dilemmas and rebuilding hope in a broken world. This blend of tactical grit and human drama keeps readers hooked.
Why The Remaining Resonates
The Remaining carved a niche in the post-apocalyptic genre by blending military precision with raw emotion. Its indie roots and rapid rise highlight the power of self-publishing, inspiring aspiring authors. Fans on platforms like Reddit rave about its intense pacing and Lee Harden’s heroic yet human struggles, with many devouring the series in days. Molles’ ability to refresh a crowded genre earned praise from reviewers, who call it a standout for its believable stakes and memorable characters.
The series’ legacy endures through its expanded universe, including the Lee Harden spin-off series, and its influence on gritty, character-driven thrillers. For readers craving stories that test the limits of courage, The Remaining remains a thrilling ride that lingers long after the final page.
- Publication Years: 2012–2015
- Number of Books: 6 core novels, plus novellas
- Genre: Post-apocalyptic military thriller
Ready to face the apocalypse? Grab The Remaining and dive into D.J. Molles’ heart-racing world of survival and sacrifice!