Flarefall Series – Frequently Asked Questions

About the Books

Q: What is Flarefall?
A character-driven, post-apocalyptic series set in the aftermath of a catastrophic solar storm. The first book, Afterlight: Book One of the Flarefall Series, follows a small Texas town as it confronts the collapse of modern life and the moral choices of rebuilding.

Q: How many books will there be?
Five main novels are planned, along with novellas and companion stories set in other countries affected by the same disaster.

Q: Do I need to read them in order?
Yes — each book builds on the events of the last, though each has its own complete arc.

Q: Is the science real?
Yes. The solar event in Flarefall is based on actual astrophysics and infrastructure vulnerabilities, researched extensively for accuracy.

About the Author

Q: Who writes the Flarefall series?
Patrick Bernhardt — novelist, car enthusiast, and systems thinker who blends tactical realism, emotional storytelling, and detailed world-building.

Q: Is Afterlight based on real events?
No — but it draws heavily on real science, disaster planning, and the author’s research into community resilience.

Adaptation & Media

Q: Will Flarefall be a TV show or movie?
The series has been designed with a prestige TV adaptation in mind. There’s already a complete adaptation strategy and franchise bible to help guide that process if the right creative and production partners come on board.

Q: Who would you like to see play the main characters?
We’ve imagined some dream casting, including Henry Cavill as Jack Kessler, Amy Acker as Danielle, and Wes Chatham as Nathan — but we’re always open to other inspired choices from the creative team.

Q: Will you be involved in the adaptation?
Yes — Patrick plans to collaborate closely with the showrunner and creative team, offering insight into the story’s world, science, and moral themes, while supporting new ideas that make the adaptation shine in its own medium.

World & Setting

Q: Where is Flarefall set?
Primarily in Graford, Texas, and the surrounding Possum Kingdom Lake area. Later books and novellas expand the world to other parts of the U.S. and abroad.

Q: Is Graford a real town?
Yes — it’s a small community in North Texas that serves as the primary setting for the first book. In Flarefall, it becomes a focal point of survival and rebuilding after the collapse. The version you’ll read is fictionalized for the story, though inspired by the real location.

Q: Why no zombies, aliens, or magic?
Because this story is about the collapse that could actually happen, and the people who’d have to live through it.

Community & Events

Q: What is the “Flarefall HQ”?
A real property at Possum Kingdom Lake that Patrick plans to restore as both a survival-ready home and a hub for future fan events, media, and immersive storytelling.

Q: How can I meet the author?
Public events will be announced closer to release — updates will be posted on the blog.

Q: How can I stay updated?
Follow the Flarefall blog for announcements, behind-the-scenes content, and development updates. You can also follow @FlarefallOfficial on Twitter, Bluesky, and Threads.

For Industry Professionals

Q: Are the rights available?
Film/TV rights are retained by the author and open for discussion. International publishing rights are also available.

Q: Do you have materials for producers and publishers?
Yes — including a franchise bible, adaptation strategy, character arcs, and market analysis. Please use the Contact form for access.