This novella is a companion piece to the Ashfall series, in which the eruption of a massive volcano plunges the country into an ash-covered wintry nightmare. The Ashfall series focuses on teen Alex, who transforms from somewhat bratty son to heroic leader over the course of the series -- thanks in large part to the remarkable Darla. 
 Darla is the girl who stitches up Alex's wounds when he stumbles upon her family farm. She's tough, resilient, incredibly inventive, and absolutely loyal. In Darla's Story, we get her side of the beginning of the disaster, and hear about the immediate aftermath of the eruption from her point of view. 
 As with the Ashfall books, Darla's Story is fast-paced and full of action, and it's always a pleasure to see Darla getting a chance to shine. She's a terrific character, and anyone who enjoys the series should absolutely check out this novella.