In 1906, Alfred Henry Lewis, consumed by the effects of political corruption and mismanaged resources, posited, “…the only barrier between us and anarchy is the last nine meals we've had.” A century later, society’s veneer forestalling chaos is even more delicate.

The Refuge: Nine Meals from Anarchy offers a compelling look at what occurs when civilization’s facade crumbles, revealing both nobility and darkness within ordinary people. When nine missed meals separate order from chaos, Jake Grayson learns that security relies not only on supplies and solar panels, but also on the resilience of the human spirit and the bravery of those around him.

As an engineered virus devastates America’s population, Jake’s preparations—once mocked by friends and family—become the crucial difference between life and death.

As society unravels, Jake and those depending on him face brutal choices in a world where danger lurks around every corner. A perilous journey to the Ozarks and a battle against deadly marauders threaten their survival, while mounting tensions expose the fragile equilibrium within their own walls. When electrical grids crash and communication fails, Jake has no way to contact his siblings.

In Nashville, the lavish lifestyle of his older brother John is in ashes. With nothing left to lose, he and his wife set out on a desperate journey to reach Jake’s refuge. Meanwhile, Jake’s brother Michael faces the harsh reality of a collapsing government. As his military base struggles to maintain order, Michael must choose between duty and family.

As their struggle for survival becomes an unwelcome routine, Jake suppresses his feelings for Samantha to avoid disturbing the status quo. But their growing bond offers a glimmer of light amidst the darkness; can love grow when every day is a battle to survive?

The Refuge: Nine Meals from Anarchy was inspired by the questions: "Was the first time just a trial run? What if everything fell apart tomorrow? What can I do to prepare?"