Audible Book Review: Commune: Book Two by Joshua Gayou

This is another spot on entry in this dystopian, post-apocalyptic series.
Commune: Book Two
Commune Series 2
By: Joshua Gayou
Narrated by: R.C. Bray

Length: 15 hrs and 2 mins
Release date: 04-03-18
Publisher: Joshua Gayou, Blue Heron Audio
Genre: Action, Dystopian, Post-Apocalyptic
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.5.

Publisher's Summary
2019 Independent Audiobook Award Winner for Apocalyptica
Survival can be a lonely existence...or not. The reality of the situation always comes down to a simple decision: What kind of world do you want to build?
The survivors have come to settle in the mountains of Wyoming, fighting day in and day out to establish a home for themselves in a near-empty world. Things are good at first; scavenging is a workable, short-term solution that seems to be providing all they need.
But they know that it’s only a matter of time before the food runs out. They need to scramble to find a sustainable solution before the clock stops, and for a little handful of people up in the mountains, the odds don’t seem very favorable.
Further south, a new band of people migrates across the map, running on fumes and searching desperately for a place to settle. All around them, as resources run thin, the world grows colder and more violent.
It’s getting worse out there, always getting worse, and it’s starting to look like survival might just depend on how violent they’re willing to get.... ©2017 Joshua Gayou (P)2018 Joshua Gayou

Review:
Brian, a member of the Jackson Commune, continues his character interviews in this episode. The primary character discussed is Blake Gibson, formerly SSgt Gibs. Gibs is a wonderful character and, as Gayou states in the intro, he did his best to make Gibs a true to life Marine Sergeant. Gibs is clearly well read and well spoken but he comes with the full blown rough language of a Marine.

This book provides Gibs the opportunity to tell about the misfit survivors that he gathered in his ‘bus’ as they struggled through Colorado. They scavenged along the way and hoped to find good supplies in Denver but found trouble instead. Gibs describes their losses and harrowing escape before he explains how they ended up in Jackson, Wyoming where he was fortunate to meet Jake, the leader of the commune. In the early days there weren’t outsiders aware of the location of the secluded cabin and surroundings. Once Gibs arrived with his busload of people the occupants grew from three to over twenty. It was important that everyone find a task they could perform to contribute to the community.

The story goes from desperate gun fight to methodical, planning and working toward long term (at least past winter) survival. Some interviews are shared from Amanda and a few others which gives a break from all Gibs. In spite of the potty mouth, I enjoyed the fighting action and the prepper development activities. I am looking forward to book 3. I recommend this book and series to readers who enjoy real to life post-apocalyptic stories.

Audio Notes: R.C. Bray is a great narrator for this work. He captures the voices and personalities of the characters. His narration enhanced the book for me. I plan to continue to listen to the audio versions.

Source: 05/17/2020 Two Audible Credit choices for April. This qualifies for 2021TBR, 2021Audiobook and 2021Alphabet Audio goals.

Commune: Book One Review, 4.5.

Audible Book Review: Unprepared, The Scourge, Book 1 by Tom Abrahams

This is a descent post-apocalyptic but not stellar.
Unprepared
The Scourge, Book 1
By: Tom Abrahams
Narrated by: Kevin Pierce

Length: 8 hrs and 19 mins
Release date: 04-26-20
Publisher: Piton Press LLC
Genre: Post-Apocalyptic, Science Fiction
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.0.

Publisher's Summary
A mutating plague is spreading. It's killing two of every three people on Earth. And Mike Crenshaw is totally unprepared.
From the world of The Traveler Series comes a new cast of characters, new obstacles, and the same devastating, world-altering virus which plunges society into the depth of a dystopian hell.
Unprepared begins in the hours before The Scourge takes hold. As if ripped from today's headlines, governments react too slowly and the disease spreads too fast. Quarantines don't work. Infrastructure fails. People die.
Follow Mike and his friends as they try to survive this new landscape and find out how the world in which The Traveler Series was set came into being. It's a thrill ride that will keep you up at night with the lights on and the doors locked.
©2020 Piton Press LLC (P)2020 Piton Press LLC

Review:
Mike Crenshaw is just a regular guy, a second-rate radio salesman in Lake Mary, Florida. The sales leader, Brice, is an unlikely friend. As the world learns about a fast acting, deathly virus, Mike and Brice find themselves together, unprepared, without supplies, and trying to get out of town. Along the way they pick up a stranger who agrees to let them drive her to relatives on the coast.

In a nearby area of Orlando, a waning news reporter, Kandy, and her new boyfriend, (Phil?), barely escape an angry mob. They too begin to head to New Smyrna Beach seeking refuge with Phil’s family.

Part of the story also covers the scientists in the Ukraine who are desperately researching the virus and seeking cures. The female doctor originally thinks she is being punished being sent to Ukraine, not realizing that she has had a chance to be part of the event at ground zero. I also liked the personal snippets as the plague spread through 1349 London.

The virus and government handling (or mishandling) could mirror the early days of Covid19 although the book virus is much more deadly. The story moves a little slowly at the beginning as the author introduces the characters in their different locations. The story skims over the multitudes dying as it follows these handful of survivors trying to get past barricades to safety. I enjoyed the diverse characters, and I liked the threads of connection that are revealed closer to the end.

The setting in Florida is a plus for me as is the lack of foul language. There is some mild cursing. It is fun that the author slips in songs and authors that are familiar. There are apparently “Easter Eggs” from the Travelers series - the same world five years later with different survivors. I have the Audible books 1-3 of that series and I may try the Travelers series before I continue with this one. Unprepared may be less exciting because, although there are several tense scenes, the story is more focused on setting up the characters and their journey to refuge. I recommend this as a solid beginning to a post-apocalyptic series.

Audio Notes: Kevin Pierce is a skilled narrator in this genre. He manages to convey the personalities and his voice fits the intensity of the story. I look forward to listening to more by this author and narrator.

Source: 12/31/2020 Audible Two for One Credit Sale. This qualifies for 2021TBR, 2021Audiobook and 2021Alphabet goals.

Audible Book Review: Junkyard Cats by Faith Hunter

I enjoyed the unique characters, world building and action in this post-apocalyptic fantasy.

Junkyard Cats
By: Faith Hunter
Narrated by: Khristine Hvam
Length: 5 hrs and 2 mins
Release date: 01-02-20
Publisher: Audible Originals
Genres: Fantasy, Post-Apocalyptic, Science Fiction
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.25.

About This Audible Original
From the author of the best-selling Jane Yellowrock and Soulwood series comes a tough new heroine who is far more than she seems.
After the Final War, after the appearance of the Bug aliens and their enforced peace, Shining Smith is still alive, still doing business from the old scrapyard bequeathed to her by her father. But Shining is now something more than human. And the scrapyard is no longer just a scrapyard, but a place full of secrets that she has guarded for years.
This life she has built, while empty, is predictable and safe. Until the only friend left from her previous life shows up, dead, in the back of a scrapped Tesla warplane. Clutched in her cold fingers is a note to Shining—warning her of a coming attack.
With dread, Shining realizes: someone knows who she is. Someone knows what she is guarding. Will she be able to protect the scrapyard? Will she even survive? Or will Shining have to destroy everything she loves to keep her secrets out of the wrong hands?
©2020 Faith Hunter (P)2019 Audible Originals, LLC

Review:
Shining Smith is the proprietor of an old scrapyard in the deserts of West Virginia, dealing in scraps, old, new and alien tech, and secrets. Shining was raised by her father who was deep in the OMW, the Outlaw Militia Warriors. When she was a young girl, she saved her father’s community from the aliens. Before the Bug aliens arrived on earth Shining was human, but then she became infected… survived and mutated. She has to stay away from the government authorities and the OMW who would take her resources, including parts of a downed spaceship, and use her or kill her.

Shining has a few companions in her limited territory. Mateo is a damaged war veteran she rescued from slave labor and helped to rebuild. Now he is a bio-metallic Warbot and an invaluable ally. Then there are the cats who have an interesting group dynamic. She helps give them protein and they help keep her alive with an organized spy network and group hunting the alien puffers, nano tech weapons, when they show up.

When shining investigates a newly acquired piece of scrap, a Tesla warplane, she discovers trouble. First, she finds angry, swarming ants. Not just any ants but the murderous results of an environmental experiment gone wrong. These need to be killed before they try to kill Shining. Second, she realizes that there is a dead body in the vehicle. It is one of her few human friends and he has a note warning her that her location has been discovered and ‘they’re coming”.

Soon a single outsider is coming in. She doesn’t know if he is government or OMW but either way he isn’t her friend. While she is still trying to determine why he is there, a multi prong attack is detected. Surprisingly, the lone enforcer visitor ends up fighting with Shining. The cats and AI are welcome comrades who help turn the tide in the fight with the enemy.

It was clear from the opening that Shining was a special woman with unique secrets. Her history, physical secrets and surrounding secrets are revealed as the plot moves forward. I really enjoyed the interaction between Shining, Mateo, the super cats and the AI. The puffer and other weapons are very creepy and I was glad to see the combined efforts to fight them.

I enjoyed the first book of the Jane Yellowrock series by this author and now I have this second series to enjoy too. I recommend this to readers who enjoy sci fi fantasy mix with a heavy dose of military-like action.

Audio Notes: Khristine Hvam does a great job with narration. She captures the personality of Shining and delivers the other characters with distinct voices and fitting emotional energy. I will look forward to listening to more of Ms. Hyam’s narrations.

Source: 1/11/2020 One of Two Free January Audible Originals. This qualifies for 2021TBR, 2021Audiobook, and 2021Alphabet goals.

Audible Book Review: Solitude by Dean M. Cole

This is a little cheesy but I enjoyed it.

Solitude
Dimension Space, Book One
By: Dean M. Cole
Narrated by: R.C. Bray, Julia Whelan

Series: Dimension Space, Book 1
Length: 8 hrs and 50 mins
Release date: 04-03-17
Language: English
Publisher: Blue Heron Audio
Genre: Alternative History, Post-Apocalyptic, Sci Fi
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.25.

From the Bestselling Author of the Sector 64 Series!

I Am Legend meets Gravity and The Martian when Earth's last man discovers that the last woman is stranded alone aboard the International Space Station. If you like action-packed, page-turning novels, you'll love the electrifying action in this apocalyptic thriller.
Can Humanity's Last Two Unite?
Separated by the gulf of space, the last man and woman of the human race struggle against astronomical odds to survive and unite.
Army Aviator Vaughn Singleton is a highly intelligent, lazy man. After a last-ditch effort to reignite his failing military career ends horribly, Vaughn becomes the only human left on Earth.
Stranded alone on the International Space Station, Commander Angela Brown watches an odd wave of light sweep across the planet. Over the next weeks and then months, Angela struggles to contact someone on the surface, but as she fights to survive aboard a deteriorating space station, the commander glimpses the dark underpinnings of humanity's demise.
After months alone, Vaughn discovers there is another. Racing against time, he must cross a land ravaged by the consequences of humankind's sudden departure.
Can Vaughn find a path to space and back? Can Angela—the only person with clues to the mystery behind humanity's disappearance—survive until he does?

Review:
Army Aviator Vaughn Singleton may be highly intelligent, but he is a slacker, a heavy drinker and some would call him a “loser”. But his best friend, Mark, sees more in Vaughn and encourages him to work harder and do better. They are in a testing flight when a strange phenomenon makes all the people and living creatures on earth disappear. As they struggle to determine what happened Mark is killed in an accident leaving Vaughn the only living being on earth.

Commander Angela Brown has had to remain behind after sending off the last of her space station team. She thought the others were heading to safety but soon realizes that she is the sole survivor stranded in space. As she orbits earth she begins to suspect where the devastating beam originated. But she can’t do anything about it as the space station deteriorates and her supplies run out.

After two months Vaughn finally realizes that the mission director had left an urgent directive. Now he has to race against time to rescue Angela from space. He rushes along, botching several chances and resources. Fortunately, both Vaughn and Angela have the ability to cobble together “MacGyver” like fixes. Now the question is can Vaughn actually get to Angela in time to save her?

Vaughn is not a particularly likeable character which makes the story a little awkward. Angela has a few quirks too but mostly I found those cute. Vaughn’s mess ups are frustrating and cheesy while Angela’s fixes are timely and also a bit cheesy, especially with mice living in her hair! Cole rotates scenes between the characters which added to the interest. The story moved very quickly, and I enjoyed the humor, the suspense and the bumpy ride. I recommend this as entertaining sci fi.

Audio Notes: R.C. Bray and Julia Whelan do a very fine job with the narration. They capture and convey the characters and the intensity of the situations. The narration enhanced the story for me.

Source: 4/9/19 Audible Daily Deal $2.95. This qualifies for 2020TBR and 2020Audiobook goals.

Audible Book Review: Wool (Silo #1; Wool 1-5) by Hugh Howey

I enjoyed this creative dystopian sci fi.
Wool
Silo, #1; Wool, #1-5
By: Hugh Howey
Narrated by: Amanda Sayle

Series: The Silo Saga, Book 1
Length: 17 hrs and 43 mins
Release date: 04-09-13
Publisher: Audible Studios
Genre: Dystopian, Post-Apocalyptic, Sci Fi
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.0.

Publisher's Summary
In a ruined and toxic landscape, a community exists in a giant silo underground, hundreds of stories deep. There, men and women live in a society full of regulations they believe are meant to protect them. Sheriff Holston, who has unwaveringly upheld the silo’s rules for years, unexpectedly breaks the greatest taboo of all: He asks to go outside.
His fateful decision unleashes a drastic series of events. An unlikely candidate is appointed to replace him: Juliette, a mechanic with no training in law, whose special knack is fixing machines. Now Juliette is about to be entrusted with fixing her silo, and she will soon learn just how badly her world is broken. The silo is about to confront what its history has only hinted about and its inhabitants have never dared to whisper. Uprising. ©2012 Hugh Howey (P)2013 Audible, Inc.

Review:
Something catastrophic happened to the world leaving the land and air toxic and people living for centuries underground. The people are not told much about the history but they are directed to follow the rules of ‘the order’. The mayor and sheriff are the apparent enforcers of rules. Each floor of the 150 or so levels has different tasks identified by different color uniforms like blue for mechanics, green for hydroponics, yellow for supplies and more. Juliette is a mechanic working in the lower levels of the silo community. Juliette is adept at keeping the machinery going and solving problems, including the mystery of a death that occurred in her levels. When Sheriff Holston asks for the forbidden – to go outside –Juliette is proposed to become his successor.

The long-time mayor and deputy sheriff are good with this pick, but the head of IT, Bernard, had other plans. After all, he is the one with the secrets and the greatest desire for control. Juliette tries to resist the job assignment but finds a reason to accept – a puzzle to solve. As she pieces together information, she begins to suspect conspiracy, treachery and serious secrets being kept from the community.

Juliette is accused of murdering her friend – a young man helping her to gather information. Her friends in mechanics don’t believe she is responsible, and they try to help her. Now Juliette has to struggle to survive while her friends plan an uprising. What will happen within the silo and what mysteries will be found outside?

I was a little confused when the story first started but after a chapter or so I was able to settle into the direction of the dystopia. I was impressed by the creative world building and I really liked several of the characters, especially Juliette and her friends. The past history is revealed slowly and presents some issues for consternation. It is interesting and I found some bits that brought up thoughts of political power today. I became invested with the lives of the characters and will be continuing the series with the next book, Shift. I recommend this to fans of imaginative dystopia.

Audio Notes: Amanda Sayle does a good job with parts of the narration. The voices are mostly distinct and the moods and emotional energy of the characters are appropriately portrayed. However, a couple of the voices, such as a whiny Bernard, are awful. I am glad I had the audio as the omnibus (five books together) is long. I am glad to see that book two has a really strong narrator and I look forward to continuing the series in audio.

Source: 2017 Audible Daily Deal $3.95. This qualifies for 2020TBR and 2020Audiobook goals.

Audible Book Review: Rocky River Bridge, A Grower's War Prequel by D. J. Molles

This is a quick listen and teaser to a new series.

Rocky River Bridge
A Grower's War Prequel
By: D. J. Molles
Narrated by: Christian Rummel

Length: 29 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 02-07-17
Language: English
Publisher: Audible Studios
Genre: Post-Apocalyptic, Sci-Fi
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.0.

Publisher's Summary
Two young boys set off for the Rocky River Bridge through their war-torn North Carolina hometown, both with something to prove - an adventure that will quickly teach them the realities of the raging world around them, in this prequel to DJ Molles' newest novel: The Purge of District 89.
©2017 D. J. Molles (P)2017 Audible, Inc.

Review:
This story introduces two young brothers, 9-year-old Roy and 8-year-old Walt, who live in a war zone in North Carolina. Roy is leading his brother on a boyish summer antic although their adventure is taking them into areas patrolled by mixed troops. In this post-apocalyptic world, the Americans have teamed with Chinese and Russian soldiers in an authority known as the Coalition. The authority controls the lands and directs the growers in the community.

I didn’t get a clear picture of the events that resulted in the nuclear fallout and this new order. However, this quick read provides a teaser to pull interest into the Grower’s War series. I am already a fan of DJ Molles so I might not need this teaser, but I enjoyed the free, quick entertainment.

Audio Notes: Christian Rummel is a regular narrator for D. J. Molles and they are a really good match. Rummel captures the voices and the atmosphere. The narration enhanced the story for me.

Source: Free Plus Catalog from Audible. This qualifies for my 2020Audiobook goal.

Audible Book Review: Catalyst Downward Cycle by J K Franks

This is a good beginning of a post-apocalyptic series, though not stellar.

Catalyst Downward Cycle
by J K Franks
Narrated by: Steven Varnum

Series: Catalyst, Book 1
Length: 12 hrs and 8 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 11-28-16
Language: English
Publisher: J K Franks
Genre: Dystopian, Post-Apocalyptic, Sci Fi
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.0.

Publisher's Summary
In the first five minutes, more than a million people will die.... That’s just the beginning of the nightmare.
The super solar storm wasn’t supposed to hit Earth - the odds were against it. And yet it did, and everything changed. The storm causes a global blackout. Society begins to come apart as the planes begin falling from the sky and all traces of normal vanish. Scott Montgomery watches helplessly as pandemonium consumes the world around him. But the loss of electrical power is just the first of the problems facing the survivors in the chaos that follows.
Soon, they discover the loss of electricity was just the beginning of their problems. In a land without laws and few consequences for their actions, individuals must come to terms with their darkest fears and desires. What will Scott do when he learns the draconian plans one secret group has for regaining control and ensuring their own vision for the new world?
Catalyst is a shockingly realistic tale of how society copes when the world is thrust back to a time before technology. If you are a fan of Steve Konkoly, Tom Abrahams, or A. American, you will love this audiobook.
©2016 J K Franks (P)2016 J K Franks

Review:
Scott is a computer analyst who lives in a solitary life in a small, rather isolated community on the Gulf. Scott became a bike enthusiast and a loner after a failed marriage. Scott isn’t a prepper although he is familiar with the group because his brother is one. Scott quickly recognizes the devastating impact of the solar flare that disables all electric systems in America and around the world. Scott isn’t sure how he will survive especially after he uncovers secret government plans regarding the recovery efforts.

Scott is fortunate to stumble upon three other men who are ready to band together for survival. Jack is a gritty ex-con turned preacher who is ready to help those who are ready to help themselves and he won’t take guff from anyone. Bartos is a rugged lineman who is more than prepared to defend and protect his friends. Todd is a former warrior with skills that can help with planning strategies while protecting the gathering band. These new friends see in Scott an intelligent, steady man who has valuable information and one who can help lead other men and women to work together for common good.

Scott is surprised when Todd volunteers to help him travel several hundred miles away to try to find and retrieve his niece who is in college. They are surprised to find a strange militaristic group controlling the campus. Will they be able to sneak Scott’s niece out safely? And what sort of community can they develop at their small town?

I did enjoy this overall story. Scott is a reluctant leader who needs a lot of help to succeed. He finds that help in interesting rather gritty comrades. Their communications were peppered with foul language which bothered me but wasn’t why I didn’t find the work compelling. I felt the story started slowly and plodded along. The story is realistic but seems to skip sections of development as the survivors gather. I’m not quite sure if it was the narration or the POV that made this seem like a lot of tell rather than show. There could have been more time spent on developing the community before they face a violent gang directed by an arrogant man of privilege.

I acknowledge that the story is worth listening to and continuing in the series. The problem is, with so many other series in this genre, this wouldn’t be my first choice. I do recommend this for readers/listeners who enjoy this genre.

Audio Notes: Steven Varnum does a fair job providing voices, but I think he could have provided a little more energy. I think this is partially the nature of the material. I still love listening to audio as it moves stories along for me.

Source: 9/18/18 Audible Credit. This qualifies for 2020 TBR and 2020Audiobook goals.

#NetGalley Book Review: Deal with the Devil: A Mercenary Librarians Novel by Kit Rocha

I really liked this post-apocalyptic biotech action/romance and will want to read more in the series.

Deal with the Devil: A Mercenary Librarians Novel
by Kit Rocha

Print Length: 336 pages
Publisher: Tor Books (July 28, 2020)
ASIN: B07QMHKDGB
Genre: Action Adventure, Post-apocalyptic, Romance, Sci-Fi
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0.

Deal with the Devil is Orphan Black meets the post-apocalyptic Avengers by USA Today and New York Times bestselling author duo Kit Rocha.
Nina is an information broker with a mission—she and her team of mercenary librarians use their knowledge to save the hopeless in a crumbling America.
Knox is the bitter, battle-weary captain of the Silver Devils. His squad of supersoldiers went AWOL to avoid slaughtering innocents, and now he's fighting to survive.
They’re on a deadly collision course, and the passion that flares between them only makes it more dangerous. They could burn down the world, destroying each other in the process…
Or they could do the impossible: team up.
This is the first book in a near-future science fiction series with elements of romance.

Review:
Nina and her friends, Maya and Dani, were raised under a program of clones and genetic modification. They each have special and unique skills, tactical strategies, fighting and assassination expertise, and retrievable memories of extensive info. These women were trained to be used as tools, and weapons, as might be directed by the powerful. Somehow along the way, Nina’s conscious helped her to escape with Maya and Dani. Now, in addition to protecting her team, the girls serve their community by providing food, treasured books, and more.

Knox is a cynical, battle-weary captain of a squad of supersoldiers widely known as the Silver Devils. Knox and his squad watched their handlers torture his medic to death. The remainder of the squad escaped the next chance they got. But they are living on borrowed time. The men were able to remove the trackers under their skin but the super strengths they have are based on supplements that are no longer available. They had hope that a specialist could tune their biometrics but she has been kidnapped. In order to ransom her, the Silver Devils need to team up with Nina and her team. Well… is it a team-up or a double-cross?

As the two teams travel to a distant target, there are natural tensions. Some are competitive issues but others are due to attempts to resist the sexual attraction, particularly between Nina and Knox. As the days and nights roll along the chemistry between them builds to a point of no resistance. Under Knox’s fiercely cold demeanor is a heart troubled by guilt and regrets. He admires Nina and thinks he could never be worthy of her caring nurture. But what will happen when they reach their destination and the true state of affairs is revealed?

I loved the strengths and vulnerabilities of the characters. There is plenty of tension and danger that kept me on edge. There were moments that required suspension of belief but I accepted that for the sake of the story. I enjoyed the enhanced skills, the action, the suspense, and the romance. I hope to read more in the series. I recommend this to those who enjoy futuristic, post-apocalyptic sci-fi with romance.

Source: NetGalley 2020. This qualifies for 2020NetGalley and 2020Alphabet goals.

Audible Book Review: After It Happened by Devon C. Ford

I enjoyed this post-apocalyptic (plague) story.

After It Happened
Publisher's Pack, Books 1 & 2
By: Devon C. Ford
Narrated by: R.C. Bray

Series: After It Happened, Book 1-2
Length: 12 hrs and 39 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 09-05-17
Language: English
Publisher: Podium Audio
Genre: Post-Apocalyptic, Sci-Fi
My Rating: 4.75 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.5; Narration 4.75.

Publisher's Summary
This omnibus edition contains Survival (book 1) and Humanity (book 2) of the After It Happened series.
Survival, book 1:
Set in the UK in the immediate aftermath of a mysterious illness which swept the country and left millions dead, the series follows the trials facing a reluctant hero, Dan, and the group he forms around him. They must battle the elements, find sufficient supplies and equipment to survive, and protect themselves against the most destructive force on the planet: other people.
Banding together those he found along the way, he has to fight to keep them safe.
To keep them alive. To survive.
Humanity, book 2:
The survivors have established a home, but they still have to face the brutality of human nature.
Not only do they have to survive, they must keep their humanity.
©2017 Devon C. Ford (P)2017 Podium Publishing

Review:
Dan is a man with a military and/or law enforcement background. He tends to be a loner but when society is decimated by a plague, Dan finds it hard not to try to help the rare people he finds wandering the streets or stores. The first person he meets is Neil who is unimpressive in size and fitness but has his own set of survivalist skills. One becomes two and they travel along until two become four and more.

As the small group builds they realize they need to find a place they can defend and rebuild. Each new member is assigned to a task group: gardening, cooking, cleaning, scavenging, military, etc. Not every person is prepared to contribute their share of work and some might become disgruntled. Can Dan and the other leaders keep the group safe and provide for all needs?

There are other groups forming who are more interested in taking then building. And somewhere underground is a bunker of politicians expecting to emerge to take control. It is a dangerous time for survival.

I liked how this opened, capturing my interest, and holding it all the way through. I like Dan as a taciturn loner who becomes the quiet fierce protector of the slowly growing community. Another primary and interesting character is a ten-year-old Leah who becomes Dan’s shadow protégé. This has a good combination of survival and society rebuilding issues, defensive actions (with weapons explained), and a touch of romance. I will definitely be getting the next bundle (books 3 and 4) in the series soon. I recommend this to readers who enjoy the post-apocalyptic genre.

Audio Notes: R.C. Bray is an excellent narrator in this and other sci-fi genres. He brings the various characters to life and helps the listener become immersed in the story. I love listening to Bray and he adds to this story.

Source: 2017 Audible Credit. This qualifies for 2020TBR and 2020Audiobook goals.

Audio Book Review: Promises to Keep: After the EMP (Disruption Trilogy) by R.E. McDermott

Plenty of action made this an intense, engaging conclusion.
Promises to Keep: After the EMP
Disruption Trilogy Book 3
By: R.E. McDermott
Narrated by: Kevin Pierce

Series: Disruption, Book 3
Length: 14 hrs and 13 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 10-05-17
Language: English
Publisher: R. E. McDermott
Genre: Alternate History, Post-Apocalyptic, Sci-Fi
My Rating: 4.75 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.5; Narration 4.75.

Publisher's Summary
In this thrilling final chapter of The Disruption Trilogy, R. E. McDermott once again transports us to a frighteningly realistic post-apocalyptic world of chaos and uncommon courage, and of both hope and despair.
When a massive solar storm takes down the power grid, all order collapses with civilization kept alive only by scattered pockets of survivors who find themselves not only short of critical resources, but facing an unexpected enemy - what's left of their own government.
Survivor resistance stiffens as an increasingly corrupt and tyrannical president clamps down on dissent and seeks to eliminate anyone who might expose his perfidy. With both the defenders of Fort Box in what's left of Wilmington, North Carolina, and the people of the ship Pecos Trader in southeast Texas facing uncertain futures, a resourceful and elusive George Anderson leads government forces on a wild goose chase along the Appalachian Trail, but the future looks grim. Only one man has the credibility and the stature to turn the situation around and fulfill a promise to himself - and the nation.
Simon Tremble, Speaker of the House of Representatives, and the last lawmaker not under control of the corrupt president, climbs out of his hidden hollow and starts south along the Appalachian Trail. He has promises to keep.
©2017 R.E. McDermott (P)2017 R.E. McDermott

Review:
Simon Tremble, the presumptive successor to the President, is trying to get to a safe haven, away from the corrupt powers who want to kill him because he knows too much. Simon and his son are on the path through the Appalachian Trail dodging all the checkpoints set up to find him. Along the way he stumbles upon some unexpected allies.

Meanwhile there are two locations trying to rebuild but they are under siege. Colonel Hunnicut and Levy Jenkins are leading the fight at Fort Box in Wilmington. With a band of Coasties (former Coast Guards members) and a National Guard unit they seek to organize and protect a growing gathering of refugee families. The fort occupants are fighting the corrupt government forces who are misleading desperate refugees to be front line fodder for the attacks.

Captain Jordan Hughes has guided his crew and their tanker of fuel, the Pecos Trader, towards home. Near Beaumont, Texas, his crew has created a floating ‘station’ which is under siege by a large group of ex-cons who have been masquerading as law enforcement.

The book is full of tense action while sharing the struggles of the many characters, some caring leaders and other power-hungry despots. I was pulled in from the opening lines and kept glued through the battles until the difficult but hopeful end. I liked the hint of possible future stories to revisit the rebuilding communities. I do recommend reading the trilogy in order. This is a set for those who enjoy alternative history, post-apocalyptic struggles.

Audio Notes: Kevin Pierce is a wonderful narrator. As soon as I began listening, I was caught up in the world of troubled America. I totally enjoyed the audio listen.

Source: November 2019 Audible Credit. This qualifies for 2020TBR and 2020Audiobook goals.

Book 1: Under a Tell-Tale Sky: After the EMP (Disruption Trilogy Book 1) 4.5
Book 2: Push Back: After the EMP (Disruption Trilogy Book 2) 4.5

Audible Book Review: Out of the Ashes by Bonnie R. Paulson

This post-apocalyptic trilogy has an interesting psychological twist.
Out of the Ashes
Into the End, Book 3
By: Bonnie R. Paulson
Narrated by: David Gilmore

Series: Into the End, Book 3
Length: 6 hrs and 51 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 06-04-14
Language: English
Publisher: Bonnie R Paulson
Genre: EOTW, Post-Apocalyptic, Sci-Fi
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 3.75; Narration 4.0.

Publisher's Summary
America can rise, but the cost is high.
Traumatized by previous exposure to her own tests, Dr. Rachel Parker has to complete the methodical steps she swore would never see the light of day...on herself. Her sister, Brenda Krous, may be the only one capable of pulling her through intact.
If they can accomplish the feat and find resolution together, the answers they discover can help the rest of America rise up and reclaim itself from the protection of destruction.
But a nation's fall has a time frame and pride can get in the way. Rachel and Brenda must find what they need in each other to conquer the fear in others.
©2012 - present Bonnie R Paulson (P)2014 Bonnie R Paulson

Review:
America is under attack and individual citizens are being subjected to horrible physical and mental tortures. These tortures were designed by Dr. Rachel Parker with the help of her friend Daniel as her partner to help her pull through the traumatic experiments. Now the foreign enemy is using the methods they designed and the local forces are intent on getting the final tests from Rachel. It isn’t clear if Daniel is standing by to help Rachel or betray her. But Rachel’s sister, Brenda, isn’t willing to trust Daniel at all. She may not completely trust her sister either but she is willing to help her complete the tests if it will help America.

As Rachel, Brenda, and Daniel struggle with the bizarre testing, Josh continues to run missions trying to protect Rachel and others. In a community where it isn’t clear which side the local militia are fighting on is there any hope that an ally can be found to help the beleaguered survivors?

I enjoyed that the story is presented from the view of different primary characters. I really like Josh and his hero nature… even though he makes mistakes too. I liked Brenda’s strengths… even though her past experiences have made her distrustful and cynical. The story kept my interest… even though I never fully understood how Rachel’s self-revelation would help to save America. Since that was a central theme in all three books I sure wish it had been made clear. So, if you can set aside the fact that the central theme might not be resolved, you can enjoy the action and suspense in this post-apocalyptic trilogy.

Audio Notes: David Gilmore did a good job presenting the story without creating any distracting issues. I was a little surprised that this third book narration was completed by Gilmore who narrated the first book and not the second. On the other hand, the change of narrator didn’t impact my interest or engaging with the story. I was glad to have the trilogy on audio.

Source: I received four Audiobook Author Codes on 4/10/2020. Thank you, Bonnie Paulson! This qualifies for 2020Audiobook and Author goals.

Audible Book Review: Through the Flames by Bonnie R. Paulson

It’s hard to tell who are the good guys in this intense EOTW story.

Through the Flames
Into the End, Book 2
By: Bonnie R. Paulson
Narrated by: James Miller

Series: Into the End, Book 2
Length: 8 hrs and 46 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 10-23-13
Language: English
Publisher: Bonnie R. Paulson
Genre: EOTW, Post-Apocalyptic, Sci-Fi
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.0.

Publisher's Summary
Allies = All Lies.
America is burning. The unknown blinds the citizens from fighting.
Dr. Rachel Parker's worst psychological designs are loosed on America by an unknown enemy. She leaves the safety of the mountains for the destruction of town to face her co-designer, Daniel, whose role is blurred by the smoke of deception.
Captured by militia, Rachel has to find the answers she's seeking. She's not prepared to look within her own damaged mind for the solutions. Rachel's frame of sanity and emotional stability lay on the line parallel to the country's circumstances.
Brenda Krous, Rachel's sister, possesses information that could change the face of the war. Sacrifices to get there become more and more personal until the 'Brenda' she was and the 'Brenda' she is becoming hit a crossroads. If she finds the compassion to help her sister, her patriotism to the nation might be sacrificed.
©2012 Bonnie R. Paulson (P)2013 Bonnie R. Paulson

Review:
At the conclusion of book one, the primary characters have escaped from the enemy but are scattered as they try to get to safety. Josh, is hampered by the extreme injuries of his friend, Andy. Tom was running from men blackmailing his father when an earthquake rolled rocks on him. Brenda barely escaped to get back to the mountain cabin and her sister Rachel. But Rachel heads out supposedly to get antibiotics but she walks straight into a trap set to lure her in.

Rachel discovers herself in the hands of the enemy who has also captured her injured husband, Andy, his friend, Josh, and her former patient and friend, Tom. The fourth pawn the enemy is prepared to use against her is Daniel, her partner from the traumatic psychological experiments that are the focus of the invasion against Americans. Rachel, with the help and support of Daniel, was the one who designed the alternative torture methods that are being used by the enemy.

There are several separate groups of America and local Militia. It isn’t clear if they want to learn Rachel’s secrets in order to combat the tortures or if they are aiding the invading and attacking forces to intimidate their own people.

There are repeated twists and turns as the primary characters escape and defeat their immediate captors only to be caught up in another danger. There are still a lot of questions as to the purpose of Rachel’s tests and how her completing the experiments is needed to get to a solution.

There is still good action and interest that took precedent over the confusion. It kept me wanting to read the final book in order to discover what happens. I like the post-apocalyptic elements of this series even though some situations are a bit unrealistic.

Audio Notes: James Miller is not the same narrator as book 1. I liked Miller’s emotional portrayal and energetic presentation. I was glad to listen to this in audio.

Source: I received four Audiobook Author Codes on 4/10/2020. Thank you, Bonnie Paulson! This qualifies for 2020Audiobook and author review goals.

Audible Book Review: Into the End by Bonnie R. Paulson

This is an engaging end of the world story.
Into the End
By: Bonnie R. Paulson
Narrated by: David Gilmore

Series: Into the End, Book 1
Length: 10 hrs and 39 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 12-07-12
Language: English
Publisher: Bonnie R Paulson
Genre: EOTW, Post-Apocalyptic, Sci-Fi
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 3.75.

Publisher's Summary
America's end is near.
No one knows why, but the great country is under attack.
After being weakened by countless natural disasters, America opens its airspace for aid. But instead, what is left of the devastated West Coast finds itself nearly obliterated from above. The key may belong to tests designed by a Pacific Northwest psychologist, Rachel Parker.
Rachel loses the love of her life in a house fire as they escape with their children to the nearby Rocky Mountains following the first round of air raids. In refuge, she faces her husband's best friend, Joshua, but doesn't want to face his ill-harbored feelings or her own inability to face fear.
Her sister, Brenda, escapes the fallen city, and, mistaken for Rachel, is captured. Terrified and alone, Brenda is protected by the enigmatic Daniel even while he helps keep her captive. Through torture and mind games, Brenda discovers information about her sister's work that could spin the free world into a tumultuous frenzy where the unknown is safer than reality.
©2012 Bonnie R. Paulson (P)2012 Bonnie R. Paulson

Review:
Rachel and her husband, Andy, have a ‘bug-out’ cabin in the forest that Andy worked hard to get ready. Rachel really didn’t think they would need a place to run but that day has come. The states are being devastated by an unknown enemy. The Pacific Coast, where Rachel’s family lives, is being bombed and set on fire. People are being rounded up and murdered with no explanations.

Rachel and Andy escape town with their three children, 14-year-old Cole, Kayli, and four-year-old Beau. Before they reach their cabin tragedy strikes. When Rachel and the children arrive she is upset to find Josh, Andy’s best friend in college, and the man who almost ended up with Rachel. Andy had kept it secret that Josh was their neighbor in the wilderness.

Meanwhile, a science geek teen, Tom, is threatened in his home. He snatches up his father’s CB code notes and escapes as men with foreign accents shoot at him and the innocent people he passes in his effort to hide. Tom meets a friend from school, Jenny, and pulls her along trying to keep her safe even though it also puts her in danger. Tom heads for a place he thinks he can get help, his therapist’s home. There the young pair run into Brenda, Rachel’s sister. Brenda’s boyfriend took off and she is looking for her sister and family too.

The paths of these characters weave together, and it all has something to do with Rachel and a secret psychological program she was part of a few years back. The brutal, foreign men are looking for Rachel and will hunt down anyone else who might help to get to her. Another group of men are looking for the note’s Tom took.

The story is presented from the view of several of the characters: Rachel, Andy, Brenda, and Tom. I found this kept my interest in the separate threads that look to be coming together. The story is fast-paced and a bit chaotic. There are secrets that are not explained in this book even though they are a central element to the terror that is occurring and there are scenes that require suspension of belief. Nonetheless, I enjoyed the suspense and am curious to learn what is going on. I also am rooting for the characters to stay safe.

Audio Notes: David Gilmore does a ‘nice’ job with the narration. Even though he doesn’t provide distinct character voices, he does provide fitting emotional expressions. I am glad to have this in audio as it helps the book to move along. I am looking forward to book 2, Through the Flames.

Source: I received four Audiobook Author Codes on 4/10/2020. This qualifies for 2020Audiobook goals.

Audible Book Review: Rise of the Locusts: A Post-Apocalyptic Techno-Thriller (Cyber Armageddon, Book 1) by Mark Goodwin

This is a fast-paced post-apocalyptic story.

Rise of the Locusts: A Post-Apocalyptic Techno-Thriller (Cyber Armageddon, Book 1)
By: Mark Goodwin
Narrated by: Stacey Glemboski

Series: Cyber Armageddon, Book 1
Length: 6 hrs and 23 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 01-03-19
Language: English
Publisher: Goodwin America Corp.
Genre: Christian, Futuristic, Post-Apocalyptic
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.5; Narration 4.5.

Publisher's Summary
Cyber Armageddon has come. America will not survive!
Cyber-security analyst Kate McCarthy knows something ominous is about to happen in the US banking system. She has a place to go if things get hectic, but it’s far from the perfect retreat.
When a new breed of computer virus takes down America’s financial network, chaos and violence erupt. Access to cash disappears and credit cards become worthless. Desperate consumers are left with no means to purchase food, fuel, and basic necessities. Society melts down instantly and the threat of starvation brings out the absolute worst humanity has to offer.
In the midst of the mayhem, Kate will face a post-apocalyptic nightmare that she never could have imagined. Her only reward for survival is to live another day in the gruesome new reality which has eradicated the world she once knew.
As with all works by Mark Goodwin, this book contains no profanity and no embarrassing sex scenes. However, if you're offended by conservative principles and references to Scripture, this book might not be for you.
©2018 Mark Goodwin (P)2018 Mark Goodwin.

Review:
Kate McCarthy works in cyber-security for a bank in Atlanta. The bank experiences a computer ‘glitch’ which requires a temporary shutdown. The bank officers are unhappy but trust Kate and her team to deal with the situation after she provides a detailed report of the risks and a plan to mitigate damage and find the breach. As the security team races against time to find the virus before it shuts down the bank, Kate begins to suspect that this is more than a simple virus. She believes there is a serious cyber threat that will shut down connectivity on a widespread, creating social chaos.

Kate convinces her brother to gather his wife and children to escape the city and seek shelter in their mountain cabin. They manage to escape the crowds but run into danger on the road that starts a trail of tragedy. The teens experience a range of emotions from confusion to fear to determination. Arriving at the cabin doesn’t assure safety especially when they discover their unproductive and noncontributing brother has already settled in with an unannounced guest. His thoughtless actions bring more trouble to their door. Things are going to get much more difficult while Kate and her family try to survive.

I have read other stories by Mark Goodwin and I believe he does a good job creating a realistic crisis and dangers. He develops characters of diverse natures who will have different but fitting reactions and growth. The story creates a bit of roller coaster tension as Kate and her family push from one danger to face another.

This is an easy and quick listen. I like that there is no foul language or sex. The author shares Christian faith, sometimes in an unusual way. I recommend this to fans of post-apocalyptic who, as noted in the blurb, don’t mind the conservative and Christian elements. I do plan to continue the series.

Audio Notes: Stacey Glemboski does a nice job with the narration. Although I am accustomed to some of the male sci-fi narrators, Glemboski delivers the emotions and intensity well from the view of the female protagonist. I enjoyed the audio and expect to listen as I continue the series.

Source: October 2019 Two for One Credit Audible Sale. This qualifies for 2020TBR, 2020Audiobook and 2020Alphabet goals.

Audible Book Review: The Final Day by William R. Forstchen

This is a solid conclusion of another post-apocalyptic series on my TBR list.

The Final Day
By: William R. Forstchen
Narrated by: Bronson Pinchot

Series: After (Forstchen), Book 3
Length: 12 hrs and 11 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 01-03-17
Language: English
Publisher: Blackstone Audio, Inc.
Genre: Political Thriller, Post-Apocalyptic, Thriller, Sci Fi
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.0.

Publisher's Summary
The highly anticipated follow-up to William R. Forstchen's New York Times best-sellers, One Second After and One Year After, The Final Day immerses listeners once more in the story of our nation's struggle to rebuild itself after an electromagnetic pulse wipes out all electricity and plunges the country into darkness, starvation, and terror.
After defeating the designs of the alleged federal government, John Matherson and his community have returned their attention to restoring the technologies and social order that existed prior to the EMP (Electro-Magnetic Pulse) attack. Then the government announces that it is ceding large portions of the country to China and Mexico. The Constitution is no longer in effect, and what's left of the US Army has been deployed to suppress rebellion in the remaining states.
The man sent to confront John is General Bob Scales, John's old commanding officer and closest friend from prewar days. Will General Scales follow orders, or might he be the crucial turning point in the quest for an America that is again united? As the dubious Federal government increasingly curtails liberty and trades away sovereignty, it might just get exactly what it fears: revolution.
©2017 William R. Forstchen (P)2017 Blackstone Audio, Inc.

Review:
John Matherson and his community are slowly starting to make a come-back after the break down of society as a result of an EMP strike two years ago. John struggles as the leader who has had to make some really hard choices, including executing vicious members of a gang and a young man who was stealing from the community. The community has no ability to house prisoners and he felt these actions, even if difficult, set the best example. However, the actions didn’t go over well with those who claim to be the restored government, particularly after John led a successful defense against being overtaken by a government-led attack by an overbearing military leader.

John, his seven-month pregnant wife, Makala, and the community are preparing to face a tough winter. They know that they have to be careful of threats from rogue groups as well as possible threats from the government too. When John is advised that a beaten man tried to reach him with a message from his old military friend, General Bob Scales. John was on the phone with Scales who was in the Pentagon on “the Day” when the call got cut off. John is excited that Scales may be alive, and John becomes intent on getting to him to try to find out what is really going on at the “federal” government level.

John manages to get a message to Scales at the risk of important resources. Scales shows up to meet with John and bring the orders that he is supposed to bring John back to the headquarters to face charges for assassination. Instead of taking John in, Scales lets him stay but tells him to lay low so that they can pretend he is in custody.

A couple of men in the community have made a remarkable discovery in the college basement. They are on the edge of having a chance to communicate or at least listen to conversations. But there is also a leak - maybe a mole - who is feeding information to the government. That leak sets John and Makala as targets and tensions rise between John and Scales. Then Scales gets a decoded message that triggers his suspicions and anger. This sends Scales, his troops, John and his hand-picked militia off on an unexpected tactical reconnaissance that is bound to stir up trouble.

It had been several years since I read books one and two in the series (One Second After and One Year After). Book three starts about two years after "the day" and fills in the background with a good reminder of what took place to this point. I really liked the detailed picture of this small mountain community struggling with realistic problems such as limited electricity, water, and food and other day to day items like soap and clothing. John has bittersweet memories that are accompanied by clear envy of his friend’s supply of real coffee! I was puzzled that John never tried to uncover the leak, and I was curious what the title “the final day” would reveal. I did enjoy the action and the twists as John and Scales uncover secrets that change the path of the future.

This story delivers a solid post-apocalyptic/dystopian mix of survival and military intrigue. I recommend the full series to readers who enjoy this genre.

Audio Notes: Bronson Pinchot does a solid job with the narration although the quality of the audio seemed ‘old’ to me. It just didn’t sound crisp. Also, the delivery tends to be a slow drawl which is a bit disconcerting even if it does fit the weary struggles of the characters. I did get over these audio issues and still enjoyed the overall product.

Source: 9/1/18 Audible Sale $5.95. This qualifies for 2020TBR, 2020Audiobook, and 2020Alphabet goals.

Audible Book Review: Commune by Joshua Gayou

I liked these characters and the story.
Commune
Commune, Book 1
By: Joshua Gayou
Narrated by: R.C. Bray

Series: Commune Series, Book 1
Length: 9 hrs and 46 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 10-28-17
Language: English
Publisher: Joshua Gayou, Blue Heron Audio
Genre: Post-Apocalyptic, Sci Fi
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.5.

Publisher's Summary
For dinosaurs, it was a big rock. For humans: Coronal Mass Ejection (CME).
When the Earth is hit by the greatest CME in recorded history (several times larger than the Carrington Event of 1859), the combined societies of the planet's most developed nations struggle to adapt to a life thrust back into the Dark Ages.
In the United States, the military scrambles to speed the nation's recovery on multiple fronts including putting down riots, establishing relief camps, delivering medical aid, and bringing communication and travel back on line.
Just as a real foothold is established in retaking the skies (utilizing existing commercial aircraft supplemented by military resources and ground control systems), a mysterious virus takes hold of the population, spreading globally over the very flight routes that the survivors fought so hard to rebuild. The communicability and mortality rates are devastating, leaving only small pockets of survivors scattered throughout the countryside.
Commune: Book One is the story of one small group of survivors who must adapt to a primitive, hostile world or die. As they learn the rules of this new era, they must decide how far they're willing to go to continue living, continually asking themselves the same question daily: is survival worth the loss of humanity?
©2017 Joshua Gayou (P)2017 Joshua Gayou

Review:
Brian is part of a small group of survivors trying to rebuild after a Coronal Mass Ejection (CME) took out all electronics. After the CME the population was decimated by a fast-moving, lethal virus. By twos and threes survivors found their way to Jackson, Wyoming and a ranch commune, now known as the Jackson Commune. Brian is interviewing the survivors in order to make a record of their experiences. He begins by interviewing Jake, the quiet leader who is one of the first who arrived at the commune with the owner of the land, Billy. No one really knows Jake’s history before the event. It is clear he suffered loss and along the way he has become hard and determined, rarely smiling. Brian and others have observed that Jake has learned to take the steps necessary for survival. He is not book smart, but he learns quickly by example and need. Jake met Billy, a Native American, along the byways of the Southwest. Jake was moving away from dangerous cities and he found Billy also moving toward Las Vegas. It wasn’t clear if it would be safe to approach the stranger, but his contact turned out to help Jake survive. Billy espoused the motto of always being ready for bad things to happen and fortunate for this group, Billy had a prepper mindset and was preparing his property for survival in crisis.

Amanda is a young Hispanic woman who arrived at the property with her daughter, Jake, and Billy. Her story is full of sorrow and horror. Her daughter, Lizzy, has been her purpose to survive and become strong. Amanda wasn’t in a good situation when Jake and Billy stepped in to rescue her and assure a chance for Amanda and her daughter.

This is the first book introducing the Commune series. The presentation in first-person point of view through journal-style is interesting. This provides a good base for character development, backstory, and descriptive danger. There is violence that is to be expected in post-apocalyptic. There are also interesting details about prepping, scavenging and surviving. Things like guns that have ammo that’s easier to find and how diesel fuel holds up better than degrading gas. I enjoyed the story and plan to continue in the series. I recommend this to fans of the genre.

Audio Notes: R.C. Bray is a great narrator who delivers this story with personality and appropriate solemnity. He provides voices and ease of storytelling that keep the book moving forward. I liked listening to this and will most likely continue in audio.

Source: 9/1/18 Audible Sale $5.95. This qualifies for 2020TBR, 2020Audiobook and 2020Alphabet goals.

Audible Book Review: Southlands, Lee Harden, Book 2 by D.J. Molles

This episode gripped me and had me listening hoping for better luck for the primary characters.
Southlands
Lee Harden, Book 2
By: D.J. Molles
Narrated by: Christian Rummel

Series: Lee Harden, Book 2
Length: 9 hrs and 55 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 05-28-19
Language: English
Publisher: Audible Studios
Genre: Action & Adventure, Military Sci Fi, Post-Apocalyptic
My Rating: 4.75 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.75; Narration 5.0.

Publisher's Summary
After being sequestered to a bunker to recover from his wounds, Lee Harden is finally going topside with his fellow Project Hometown Coordinator, Terrence "Tex" Lehy. Lee wants to ally the UES with Texas, in order to combat the threat of a powerful oil cartel to the south. But Tex's methods raise serious questions, and Lee quickly discovers that Texas has its own set of problems.
In the Fort Bragg Safe Zone, the conflict with the Lincolnists is rapidly escalating. Master Sergeant Carl Gilliard has just returned, and he’s intent on destroying the Lincolnists, using whatever means are necessary.
Angela is caught in the middle, unable to reconcile her sense of civil morality with her desire for justice. One thing remains certain: before there is peace, there will be blood.
©2019 D.J. Molles (P)2019 Audible, Inc.

Review:
Lee Harden continues to struggle for freedom each day. He is off in Texas with Julia and Abe to pursue their current mission. They are meeting with fellow Project Hometown Coordinator, “Tex”, in the hopes of gaining the Texas military elements as allies to fight the threat of a powerful cartel to the south. Lee realizes that Texas has its own issues and struggles to take into consideration.

Meanwhile, the Lincolnists in the Fort Bragg Safe Zone are becoming more of a threat to the community. The elected president, Angela, is caught in the middle of military pressures and the rights being demanded by the rising group of rebels. She is leaning toward restraining the military as she tries to uphold ‘constitutional’ and civil rights.

Molles manages to provide strong characters and intense plot situation which keep me up too late listening. I was intensely invested in the events of this continuing story which were likely to lead to battle, blood, and loss. There were moments when I was shaking my head and clenching my fists suspecting a trap or betrayal and suspecting decision errors would lead to disaster. Now I am wondering how the characters I care about will continue to survive.

I initially thought book 3 wasn’t out yet but in checking, I am glad to see it is available. It is on my purchase list for series to continue. I recommend this series, starting with the Remaining series, to readers who like intense action with characters you become invested in. After all – who wouldn’t be concerned about whether the uninfected humans can survive and rebuild society while facing corrupt and power-hungry politicians, infighting rebel groups and external threats from evolving zombies?

Audio Notes: Christian Rummel continues to do a stellar job with the narration of the series. He provides unique voices that fit each of the characters. I totally enjoy listening to this series.

Here is a Link to my reviews of other books in the series. 

Source: December 2019 Audible Sale $5.98. This qualifies for 2020TBR, 2020Audiobook and 2020Alphabet goals.

Audible Book Review: Push Back, The Disruption Series, Book 2, by R.E. McDermott

This is a story I didn't want to put down.

Push Back
The Disruption Series, Book 2
By: R.E. McDermott
Narrated by: Kevin Pierce

Series: Disruption, Book 2
Length: 12 hrs and 58 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 09-12-16
Language: English
Publisher: R. E. McDermott
Genre: Alternate History, Post-Apocalyptic, Sci-Fi
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.5; Narration 4.5.

Publisher's Summary
Earth reels in the aftermath of a savage solar storm, a global disaster of unprecedented proportion which leaves most of the world without electrical power or the means to restore it. Across the world, the responses of unprepared national governments are too little, too late. In the US, order collapses and opportunistic forces rise to fill the power vacuum, as what remains of a self-serving federal bureaucracy prioritizes the survival of politicians and bureaucrats over that of the general population.
As chaos and starvation spread, isolated pockets of survivors unite to survive. In Texas, Captain Jordan Hughes and a ragtag group of seamen and ex-Coastguardsmen gather their families close and resist the depredations of a hoard of escaped convicts. Meanwhile, in North Carolina, a similarly determined group of survivors attempts to use salvaged resources, not only to save themselves, but also to feed the hungry.
But not everyone is happy about the efforts of the valiant and resourceful few. Secure in his Camp David compound, a corrupt president consolidates power and builds a mercenary force to deal with any possible challenges to his absolute authority and to seize all dwindling resources for government use and fair distribution.
Survivors of the natural disaster are thus dealt another blow as they're betrayed by the very government established to protect them. Do they knuckle under to a dictator, or do they push back?
©2016 Robert E. McDermott (P)2016 Robert E. McDermott

Review:
The world has been set into chaos by a solar storm which knocked out electrical power and most normal sources of communication. Some groups have gathered together to share resources and protect one another from others, like gangs of roaming convicts, who would pillage and rape.

This story follows several groups and individuals introduced in Book 1, Under a Tell Tale Sky. Captain Jordan Hughes and a ragtag group of seamen and ex-Coastguardsmen are trying to gather their families onto a flotilla of ships in Texas. As they plan fortifications some of their members set out to travel to Louisiana to seek their own families. Those who travel find friends and foes while those who remain are soon facing attacks by the local convicts who are seeking control. The resistance is building but they are struggling to survive and gather before they can stand and fight.

Meanwhile Congressman Tremble and his son have escaped the FEMA headquarters in Virginia. Tremble is one of the few men living who knows the secret betrayal of the POTUS and corrupt Homeland Security forces. Tremble and his injured son are dodging capture and received help from Wiggins and Tex, two former ship crewmen, who are making their way over the Appalachian Trail to Wiggins’ family in Maine. Another decoy giving some cover for Tremble is former FEMA agent, George Anderson, who has set off on his own. He meets some interesting characters on his beleaguered run. He’d like to find a safe place, but agents are hot on his track.

There is plenty of action to keep the reader/listener interested. There is violence, terror and heartache. I was holding my breath at times. I appreciated the fact that the author doesn’t need to use foul language to fill his story. I have purchased Book 3, Promises to Keep, so I can finish the trilogy ‘next year’. I recommend this series to readers who enjoy post-apocalyptic, action adventures.

Audio Notes: Kevin Pierce is a wonderful narrator. He shares the emotional energy of the story while giving characters their own voices. The narration is enhancing my enjoyment of the series.

Source: July 2018 Audible Credit. This qualifies for 2019TBR and 2019Audiobook goals.

#NetGalley Book Review: The Girl in Red by Christina Henry

This is realistic post apocalyptic.

The Girl in Red
by Christina Henry

File Size: 1626 KB
Print Length: 302 pages
Page Numbers Source ISBN: 1785659774
Publisher: Berkley (June 18, 2019)
ASIN: B07KNRN1VL
Genre: Fairy Tale Retelling, Post-Apocalyptic, Sci Fi
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

From the national bestselling author of Alice comes a postapocalyptic take on the perennial classic "Little Red Riding Hood"...about a woman who isn't as defenseless as she seems.
It's not safe for anyone alone in the woods. There are predators that come out at night: critters and coyotes, snakes and wolves. But the woman in the red jacket has no choice. Not since the Crisis came, decimated the population, and sent those who survived fleeing into quarantine camps that serve as breeding grounds for death, destruction, and disease. She is just a woman trying not to get killed in a world that doesn't look anything like the one she grew up in, the one that was perfectly sane and normal and boring until three months ago.
There are worse threats in the woods than the things that stalk their prey at night. Sometimes, there are men. Men with dark desires, weak wills, and evil intents. Men in uniform with classified information, deadly secrets, and unforgiving orders. And sometimes, just sometimes, there's something worse than all of the horrible people and vicious beasts combined.
Red doesn't like to think of herself as a killer, but she isn't about to let herself get eaten up just because she is a woman alone in the woods....

Review:
Red is a young woman who survived the ‘Crisis’. A terrible coughing virus has destroyed society as it used to be. Red had hoped that her family – parents and brother - could get to her grandmother’s house. But now she is on her own in a red jacket trying to avoid the predators, the marauders and the government (maybe?) troops.

Red is pragmatic and knows to scavenge for items needed to survive. That includes blankets for warmth, canned goods for food and an axe for protection. Red is determined but she will face terrible odds, not just in lawless people but in a deadly monster that she would never have believed in if she hadn’t seen it with her own eyes.

I initially thought this might be a fairy tale retelling, but the similarities are limited. After all, in this story the wolves may have to be afraid of Little Red. I choose not to describe more of the details to avoid spoilers. I liked that this post-apocalyptic tale has a lot of realistic elements. The author also deals nicely with several timely issues like racism and sexual orientation. Red is a wonderful character of intelligence and strength in a desperate situation. The ending leaves some questions, but the story is really about a frightening journey which shares sorrow and hope. I recommend this to fans of the post-apocalyptic genre.

Source: 2019 NetGalley. This qualifies for 2019NetGalley goal.

Audible Book Review: Harden, Lee Harden, Book 1 by D.J. Molles

This is gritty but I was glued to listening.
Harden
Lee Harden, Book 1
By: D.J. Molles
Narrated by: Christian Rummel

Series: Lee Harden, Book 1
Length: 10 hrs and 3 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 10-23-18
Language: English
Publisher: Audible Studios
Genre: Sci Fi, Post Apocalyptic
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.5; Narration 4.5.

Publisher's Summary
Harden is the highly-anticipated return to the NYT best-selling series, The Remaining.
It’s been three years since Lee Harden emerged from his bunker into a world gone mad. Governments have fallen. And new ones have taken their place. In the United Eastern States, Lee and his team of battle-hardened operatives walk a tightrope of survival, keeping their fledgling society safe from the creatures beyond their gates - and from the enemies within.
Then, an ambush in hostile territory reveals a traitor in their midst - and leaves Lee barely clinging to life. Wounded and on the run, Lee and his team race to uncover the leak before it’s too late. Through a background of destruction, betrayal, and newly-evolved apex predators, they must stay one step ahead of a ruthless organization spreading out of the south - an organization that has allied with someone who wants Lee dead, and the United Eastern States demolished. But how do you stay ahead of an enemy that knows every move you make?
Reintroducing one of the most beloved heroes in post-apocalyptic fiction, Harden immerses you in a reality of desperate gambits, where wrong moves could cost the lives of thousands, but saving them could cost your humanity. The only rule is NEVER STOP FIGHTING.
©2018 D.J. Molles (P)2018 Audible, Inc.

Review:
Harden is a dedicated soldier who found himself as one of the few left with resources when a virus turned the majority of people into zombies. He started his days struggling for survival with the mantra “the only easy day was yesterday”. (The Remaining.) This story opens with Harden nearly dead. His team is trying to revive him from a chest wound while they are on the run and under fire. Harden is now struggling to live, get up and fight, reminding himself that this is who he is: he has to protect his team and he can “never stop fighting”.

Harden helped establish a community of survivors which has allied with other groups along the coast as the United Eastern States. They all face the threat of self-appointed “president” Briggs who has commandeered resources and set up base in Colorado. Briggs wants to abandon the south to the infected hordes and he needs to eliminate Harden to get to the resources Harden has gathered. Harden and his team are facing a new force and coping with the realization that someone from their home base at Fort Bragg has betrayed them.

Harden and allies were able to stop a horde of infected about to take over North Carolina. But now the infected have adapted and are changing into stronger and more reasoning creatures dubbed Primals. While Harden and team try to escape, trouble is expanding back home. There is opposition sniping (literally) at Angela, the selected leader (and semi love interest of Harden). And some of the residents have gotten lax about perimeter safety allowing a threat into the protected community. They are in crisis when they learn that there is a mole and traitor in their midst.

I was glad to pick up this series again and appreciated that Harden is exhausted and struggling (after he survives death). I had forgotten how harsh the language is and I had to get into the story to get around the swearing. Thank goodness that Mr. Molles concentrates on intense plotting and suspense. I stayed up too late listening and was glad and sad at the end. Glad because there is a small light of hope and sad because the book ended with open issues (mini cliff hanger). I will have to pick up the next one to continue the saga. I recommend starting this series at the beginning.

Audio Notes: Christian Rummel continues to do a wonderful job providing voices and emotional intensity for these characters. The narration enhances my enjoyment of the story.

Source: November 2018 Audible Credit. This qualifies for 2019TBR and 2019Audiobook goal.

Links to my reviews of the earlier books:
The Remaining, Book 1  4.25
The Remaining: Aftermath, Book 2  4.5
The Remaining: The Refugees, Book 3  4.25
The Remaining: The Fractured, Book 4  4.5
The Remaining: Trust: a Novella  4.0
The Remaining: Faith: a Novella  4.0
The Remaining: Allegiance, Book 5 4.25
The Remaining: Extinction, Book 6 4.5