Tag Archives: Nicholas Sansbury Smith

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The Rule of Three

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I thoroughly enjoyed the Kindle World books as they offer a unique opportunity to delve deeper into the narrative from the perspectives of various authors. Specifically, the setting of the Extinction Cycle series takes a dramatic turn in New Zealand, providing a stark contrast to the familiar landscapes of America. This geographical shift introduces readers to a distinct terrain that significantly influences the story, and the author does a commendable job of vividly describing the environment, allowing us to visualize the challenges the characters face in this rugged landscape.

The characters, however, felt somewhat underdeveloped, lacking the depth often found in more intricate stories. While we gain a clearer understanding of the couple at the center of the narrative, their personalities and backgrounds could benefit from greater elaboration to enhance emotional investment in their journey.

Jack Gee, the protagonist, finds himself hiking through the breathtaking New Zealand mountains, blissfully unaware of the catastrophic events unfolding globally as the deadly virus approaches his remote location. His peaceful trek is abruptly interrupted when he receives a frantic call from his wife, Dee, pleading for him to return home immediately. This moment serves as a powerful catalyst, forcing Jack to abandon his adventure and rush back, only to face unforeseen detours along the way. His capture adds an intense layer of suspense, leaving him to devise a precarious escape plan that could jeopardize his very life.

Meanwhile, Dee Gee is not having an easy time either. She has barricaded herself within the confines of their home in Hamilton, retreating to the safety of the basement. Resourceful and determined, she has managed to mask her presence from the terrifying Variants that roam outside. When she witnesses a terrified group fleeing from the creatures, her instinct to help overrides her caution, leading her to invite them into her already precarious refuge. However, as the days pass and her supplies begin to dwindle, she faces a chilling reality: Jack has yet to return. Faced with the grim prospects of starvation, she realizes the necessity of leaving the basement behind, armed only with her Katana for protection. Her hope is twofold: to survive the treacherous outside world and, against the odds, find her husband amidst the chaos.

The series unfolds across three parts, allowing readers ample time to connect with a broader array of surviving characters. Throughout the narrative, there are numerous pop culture and movie references that enrich the storytelling experience. Additionally, I noticed a range of parallels to familiar zombie-themed media, encompassing various shows, films, and literature. While these similarities are apparent, they do not detract from the intrigue of the storyline but rather add layers of enjoyment for fans of the genre. Overall, this is a captivating read, and I find myself eagerly anticipating how the complete story will unfold in subsequent installments.

My rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟

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The Bone Collector

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I have always been an enthusiastic fan of the Extinction Cycle series, so I was eager to dive into this new installment that enriches the series’ mythology. The character at the center of this story is one who remained underexplored in the original books, making it all the more intriguing to finally gain insight into his life before and after his transformation. Initially, the narrative didn’t captivate me right away, but as the plot unfolded, I found myself engrossed in the journey that reveals how events transpired not only for him but also for his companions.

The story revolves around Blake Chambers, a man who had wished for death just six weeks before the world around him crumbled. Ironically, in the wake of apocalyptic chaos, Blake struggles to recall the dark thoughts that once plagued him, as his mind has suffered too many injuries—each blow resulting in lost memories and relentless pain. The stakes heighten when Dwight shows up at his door, delivering shocking news: the world as Blake knew it is gone, everyone he once knew is dead, and terrifying monsters now roam the land. He can’t grasp the full weight of Dwight’s words, as he has been lost in a deep sleep for an extended period, wrapped in his own personal turmoil.

For avid readers of Nicholas Sansbury Smith’s novels, this book is a seamless integration into the established timeline, spotlighting significant events that align with the existing narrative. I appreciated this entry immensely, as it not only reconnected me with beloved characters but also deepened my understanding of their relationships, particularly with the enigmatic Bone Collector—a figure who looms large in the series. Overall, it was a rewarding experience that added layers to the tragic yet compelling universe of Extinction Cycle.

My rating: 💀💀💀💀

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Orbs IV

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I had been eagerly awaiting a continuation of this story, as the last novel’s cliffhanger led me to believe it would be a trilogy. Initially, the story seemed slow but quickly gained momentum and captivated me. The characters have been consistently excellent since the series began and have only improved. Even the newer characters evoke empathy and connection. The narrative doesn’t resolve just one plotline but three, detailing the survival struggles of those fighting from the outset.

Although Operation Redemption was unsuccessful, the Sunspot was launched and is en route to Mars to join the colony there. The team from Cheyenne Mountain, along with a few others, has embarked on the lengthy journey with hope in their hearts. Meanwhile, survivors continue their fight for life; Captain Nobel is captured but alive aboard an Organics ship, and Alexia is working to evacuate everyone from the planet if possible.

The story is replete with action, adventure, and intense emotion. For those seeking a journey that stirs the full range of feelings, this story is an excellent choice. I highly recommend it!

My rating: 🌠🌠🌠🌠

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Orbs III

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This is the last book in the trilogy and while I enjoyed it I still wanted something more from it. The characters were good but I was no longer as invested in what happened to them as I had been when the series started. It’s like they were in a rut and didn’t really grow very much between the first and last book. I knew what to expect from them without them having to do or say anything. The story moved forward at a good pace though it lacked some of the suspense that I was expecting from the final installment.

The inhabitants of the Biosphere have been pared down significantly while the aliens seem to have limitless replacements so Sophie decides that they should join with Captain Noble and his NTC crew. Sophie’s people learn through a satellite that has survived that the Organics have set up poles on the highest points around the planet and wonder what this discovery could mean for their own survival.

Before anything can be done about their new information the biosphere must deal with sabotage that could be the end of them and any hopes they have a living to see the Organics destroyed. Sophie still believes that the best chance they have would be to leave the planet if a way can be found.

Even though I may not have loved it I still think it is well worth the time. I recommend the series because it is different enough to stand out with aliens that I do not remember having seen before. Not to mention that the author does work it.

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

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Flight 906 to Chicago

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A really good look at the first day of the outbreak from a civilian viewpoint. The characters are all three dimensional and have the feeling of reality to them. The story starts a little slowly but quickly picks up and brings you into the action of what is about to be a very bad day for the world.

Henry and Charlie, father and son, go on what should be a routine favor to pick up Henry’s younger brother Lewis from the airport. While on the way they find themselves in the traffic jam from hell and end up running late. They believe there must be some type of accident up ahead until they see SWAT making its way up the shoulder and realize something much more serious is going on.

As they follow behind the SWAT vehicles all Henry can think about is getting to his brother and getting away before any of them are hurt in the chaos. Henry, Charlie, and Lewis witness something that none of them can understand but know that it is deadly.

I found this to be a really nice look into the early days of the infection. I am not so sure about the rapidity of the infection but this was definitely entertaining. I have never read anything by this author and it makes me want to read something by him. I would recommend this to anyone who likes the Extinction Cycle books or just this author in general.

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

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Extinction Trippin’

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This was a really nice side trip in the Extinction Cycle. I love the books by Mark Tufo and have read most of them because I am enamored of Michael Talbot. By the same token I am totally into Nicholas Sansbury Smith and his great books, also with a character who makes me wish he were real. Sometimes you can have someone do a mash up and it falls flat but that is so not the case here. You get a good taste of both worlds as they collide in just the right way.

Mike and his family and friends are staying in Maine with brother Ron and the rest of his siblings. They have finally found a little peace from the dead at last though they stay vigilant at all times. Mike’s mother-in-law is very sick and even though she is taking medicine he thinks they need a nebulizer to help her recover. B.T. (Big Tiny) says that he will go but it turns into a field trip for those who want to stretch their legs.

John the Tripper decides to make the trip and this stoner has some type weird stuff happen when he is around. While driving to the hospital Mike, B.T., and Mrs. Deneaux find themselves in Atlanta being told by Trip that they must help a world on the verge of extinction even though they have fought for their own.

While you never actually interact with the characters from the this world if you have read the books then you know exactly what was happening during that time. You get to see the reaction of someone new to the variants which is almost comical. If you have read either of these authors then you should read this for sure. The best of both worlds!

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

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Orbs II: Stranded

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This second book did not pull me in like the first book did. The characters felt a little less interesting but I couldn’t really put my finger on the reason why. They are the same as they were before but seemed just a little duller, which could be because they are changing. The action seemed a bit more subdued than it had been in the first book even though we had some new aliens show up. It still had it’s moments that kept me wanting to know more. Some of the problem may have been that the narrator, while okay, does not add a lot vocally.

Dr. Sophie Winston and her team, along with the military personnel they have acquired continue to survive in the Biosphere. The Organics continue to empty the Oceans and every other body of water. The temperatures are continuing to rise and the last surviving humans on the outside are being herded into farms. Dr. Emmanuel Rodriguez has developed a weapon that may help to turn the tide on the Organics.

Sophie and Sgt. Overton is not getting along as well as they could and he is starting to chafe under her command. Overton wants to take on the aliens and make a rescue attempt which might result in finding more of his men. Sophie would prefer to be cautious and not draw attention. Just as things seem to hit rock bottom they get some news that makes them all feel a little better about the future.

I have to admit that this was not one of my favorite reads even though I love Nick Smith and pretty much everything he has written. I would recommend this if you have read the first book because it does advance the story and you cannot miss that.

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

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Extinction Lost

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This is my first time listening to any of the books in this series and I was very happy I did. Though it may not be the voices I have heard in my head (not killer voices), Bronson Pinchot does a fabulous job of bringing them to life. This is a nice short story that gives us a chance to see a little more of the new Team Ghost as they learn how to work together. As usual there is a surprise waiting for our newly minted Master Sargent and his team.

Fitz and Team Ghost just barely made it out with their lives from their recon mission in Italy when they are sent out again. This time they are being sent to Greenland to handle what appears to be a routine demolition, and we know how those turn out these days. Team Ghost has backup from Team Fox and another team but what they fin is like nothing they have faced before.

This is going to take us right into what may be the last book in the series Extinction War. I say if you have not started this series now is the time. I recommend this and the rest of the series.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

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Extinction Aftermath

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I love Nick’s writing but he can go on sometimes and make me wish he could use fewer words to describe his situations. I am also not a fan of cliff hangers but sometimes you deal just because you know it will be resolved eventually. My people are still moving forward and continuing to grow and thrive, the location has also grown in its scope though not always for the better, the situations have become more tense and dark.

Reed Beckham and Big Horn retired after their last mission which took a heavy toll on Reed’s body. Reed, Kate, Horn and his girls all live together and are awaiting the birth of Kate and Reeds child on plum Island. While they do this Kate continues to help categorize the Variants and Juveniles that are still a part of their world.

Fitz has taken over as leader of Team Ghost and he and Apollo have been shipped overseas to help liberate Europe from their Variant problem. Things are not going so well since they were not informed of what was really happening there.

President Ringgold has been trying to bring back normalcy to the country by establishing Safe Zone Territories. They are running fairly well and her administration has been able to build a new White House in the wake of their victory over the Variants.

But like with anything else, just when you think you have a handle on things and they are going well someone throws a wrench into the works. Here that would be Lieutenant Andrew Wood, brother of the crazy, and dead, Zach Wood. He has some demands from the new government and they involve him taking over. Can the world survive a maniac who does not care for anything but power?

Loved that this is told from multiple points of view. Not completely happy that there are at least 4-5 threads to try and keep up with, though each is good. I will admit that I want more and know that it is coming soon. I have to see where we end up and hope that my favorites are still standing at the end. Multiple cliff hangers means I have no idea who survives and who dies and it is killing me.

I highly recommend this series to anyone who loves a good apocalyptic story because it is here! Will the human race survive? Should we?

My rating: 4.5 of 5 stars

“Get out of here, boy,” Fitz said. The dog bared his teeth at the monsters and growled, clearly determined to fight by Fitz’s side. If they got out of this, he and the German Shepherd were going to have a long talk about obeying orders.

Extinction Aftermath

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Hell Divers

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Hell Divers
(Hell Divers #1)
by Nicholas Sansbury Smith

The first star is just because it is written by Nick Smith and I have a real penchant for his work. I have pretty much liked everything he has done so far and he did not let me down here. This is something I have never seen before and I have read a lot of science fiction and apocalyptic stories over the years. Nick has a great imagination when it comes to the creation of the creatures that are going to be inhabiting his world, and because I could actually visualize them I give even more points, because they are terrifying. I was not so sure about 250 years of what sounds like nuclear winter but I will defer to the science as written. The characters were introduced and gone in the blink of an eye and so most did not have a chance to be very fleshed out, but those who remained at least have room to grow.

Xavier Rodriguez is a Hell Diver who has managed to outlive most of those who decide to do the job. He has managed to survive 96 jumps when the life expectancy is a measly 15 jumps. X, as he is known to friends, is the leader of Team Raptor which happens to have 2 other veteran divers. X lives and works on the Hive, one of two remaining airships riding the currents and storms above a blighted world not fit for human habitation. His job and that of the other Hell Divers is to drop down to that uninviting land and make sure that the Hive continues to fly so that the last of humanity can survive.

When a distress call comes from the Ares, the other airship, Captain Maria Ash has no choice but to go to their rescue. But is she putting her ship in danger for nothing?

While I really did like the story of the divers I was less thrilled with the side story of what was going on aboard the ship itself. With the divers you had action, danger, sacrifice, and heroics of all types. With the passengers you had whining and ungratefulness, though maybe that was intentional. This is about an apocalypse that has left the world dead, class wars, family ties, survival, courage, and a lot more. This made me feel something for them all as they pushed to keep going and survive one more day. Was not happy with the end, but that was personal.

Anyone who likes stories of the apocalypse will love this. Highly recommend!

My rating: 4.75 of 5 stars

“We dive so humanity survives.”