The Fireman

by Joe Hill
The Fireman cover
Good Books rating 4.42
Dystopian/Post-Apocalyptic
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  • ID: 10048
  • Added: 2026-01-11
  • Updated: 2026-01-11
  • ISBN: 9780575130739
  • Publisher: Gollancz
  • Published: 2017-05-04
  • Reviews: 3

The Fireman by Joe Hill is a gripping tale set in a world where a deadly virus turns people into human torches. Harper Grayson, a pregnant school nurse, witnesses the horrifying effects of the virus firsthand and soon realizes she's infected. Determined to survive long enough to see her child born, she embarks on a perilous journey. The novel combines epic scope and emotional depth, exploring themes of survival, motherhood, and hope in the face of apocalypse. /n/n Harper's story is a testament to the human spirit, as she navigates a world on the brink of collapse. With the stakes higher than ever, she must find a way to protect her unborn child and uncover the truth behind the virus. The Fireman is a powerful blend of suspense and drama, making it a compelling read for fans of post-apocalyptic fiction.

Reviews
Hedwig's World of Books · Hedwig · 2020-05-15
sophisticated 4.50

The story is cleverly structured around Harper's pregnancy, with the timeline adding depth to the narrative. The reviewer appreciates the character development and the emotional journey of the protagonist.

Hedwig from Hedwig's World of Books notes that 'The Fireman' is cleverly structured around the nine months of Harper's pregnancy, which adds a unique layer to the story. This structure allows for a deep exploration of the characters and their emotional journeys. The reviewer particularly enjoys the way Hill develops the main characters, making them relatable and engaging. The book is seen as a sophisticated and well-written piece of work, with a strong focus on character development and emotional depth.

Quick quotes

    The book is very cleverly structured and timed around Harper's pregnancy and within the 9 months it is fair to say that she achieves a very ...

    The main characters are extremely well developed and well written.

    This is in my opinion the most sophisticated novel Joe Hill has written to date.

The Guardian · Stephen Kelly · 2016-05-26
engaging 4.00

The book offers a calmer narrative compared to Hill's previous works, with plenty of drama and moments that pay homage to his back catalogue. It is a well-crafted story that balances tension and character development effectively.

The reviewer from The Guardian highlights that 'The Fireman' is a departure from Joe Hill's usual style, offering a more subdued yet engaging narrative. The book is praised for its dramatic moments and nods to Hill's earlier works, creating a rich and immersive experience. The characters are well-developed, and the story maintains a good balance between tension and emotional depth, making it a compelling read. They appreciate the way Hill builds the story, making it both intense and thought-provoking.

Quick quotes

    There's masses of drama and moments that nod to Hill's earlier work, but this is an altogether calmer book than his back catalogue might suggest.

    It is a well-crafted story that balances tension and character development effectively.

    Hill brings the characters to life and the story grips you.

Reddit - r/horrorlit · u/horrorlit · 2016-05-16
excellent 4.75

The book is described as gripping and excellent, with a strong focus on the horror of human cruelty. The reviewer appreciates the depth of the characters and the emotional impact of the story.

The Reddit reviewer found 'The Fireman' to be truly gripping and excellent, highlighting Joe Hill's ability to convey the horror of human cruelty. They appreciate the depth of the characters and the emotional impact of the story, making it a memorable read. The reviewer notes that while it may not be pure horror, it effectively captures the essence of human cruelty and the struggles of the characters. The book is seen as a compelling and emotionally engaging piece of work, with strong character development and a powerful narrative.

Quick quotes

    I found Joe Hill's the Fireman truly gripping and had to share!

    Maybe it wasn't complete horror but I felt Joe displayed the horror of human cruelty as well or ...

    The personal stories of the group are well drawn out and principal ...

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