As the Smoke Clears: The inspirational true story of surviving Greece's deadly wildfires, overcoming devastating loss, and discovering a path to renewal

On their honeymoon, Zoe Holohan and her husband Brian were caught in a devastating wildfire in Greece that killed 102 people. Zoe survived, but Brian did not. She suffered severe burns and lost her husband. This book is her emotional journey of coping with loss, learning to walk and talk again, and facing the challenges of PTSD and a scarred body. It teaches us to find hope and happiness in the most tragic circumstances and to find comfort in the kindness of others.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 26 February 2021
Publisher: Gill

On July 23, 2018, Zoe Holohan and her husband, Brian, embarked on the beginning of their honeymoon in the picturesque seaside town of Mati in Greece. However, their dream vacation turned into a nightmare when unprecedented wildfires swept through the area, claiming the lives of 102 people. Zoe and Brian, desperately trying to escape the flames, found themselves running for their lives, with the fire hot on their heels. In a miraculous turn of events, Zoe was rescued from the boot of a burning car just seconds before it exploded. Miraculously, she survived, but not without enduring severe burns that covered her face and body. Tragically, Brian did not make it, losing his life before Zoe's eyes.

In this heart-wrenching account, Zoe shares the emotional journey of coping with the loss of her beloved husband and the physical and emotional challenges she faced in her recovery. She had to learn how to walk, talk, and use her limbs again, all while dealing with the trauma of witnessing such a devastating tragedy. As the smoke clears, Zoe's story takes a deeper turn, exploring the aftermath of loss and the resilience of the human spirit.

As the Smoke Clears is a deeply personal and poignant memoir that takes readers on a journey through a life-altering year. It explores the themes of hope, happiness, and humor in the face of tragedy, and highlights the enduring kindness of human beings. Through her experiences, Zoe teaches us to find strength and resilience in the darkest of times and to hold onto the memories of those we have lost. The book also sheds light on the ongoing challenges faced by survivors of wildfires, including PTSD and the physical scars they carry.

In conclusion, Zoe Holohan's story is a testament to the human spirit's resilience and the power of love. As the Smoke Clears, her memoir offers hope, inspiration, and a reminder of the importance of cherishing the moments we have with those we love. It is a powerful reminder that even in the face of tragedy, there is always a glimmer of light and a chance for healing and growth.

Weight: 574g
Dimension: 154 x 233 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780717190249