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Hell Divers #2
Ghosts
Ten years ago, Hell Diver Xavier "X" Rodriguez fell to Earth.
Those he left behind went on without him aboard the airship he once called home. Michael Everheart - the boy once known as Tin - has grown into a man and the commander of Hell Diver Raptor Team. While Michael dives to help keep the Hive in the air, Captain Leon Jordan rules with an iron fist at the helm of the ship. But unrest stirs under his strict leadership as a prophecy of hope sweeps the lower decks. When a mysterious distress signal calls the Hell Divers to the surface, Michael and his loyal team begin to uncover long-buried truths and the secrets Captain Jordan will do anything to keep. They dive so humanity survives... but will they survive the ultimate betrayal?
Those he left behind went on without him aboard the airship he once called home. Michael Everheart - the boy once known as Tin - has grown into a man and the commander of Hell Diver Raptor Team. While Michael dives to help keep the Hive in the air, Captain Leon Jordan rules with an iron fist at the helm of the ship. But unrest stirs under his strict leadership as a prophecy of hope sweeps the lower decks. When a mysterious distress signal calls the Hell Divers to the surface, Michael and his loyal team begin to uncover long-buried truths and the secrets Captain Jordan will do anything to keep. They dive so humanity survives... but will they survive the ultimate betrayal?
297 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 18, 2017
1077 people are currently reading
1990 people want to read
About the author
Nicholas Sansbury Smith
103 books2,384 followersNicholas Sansbury Smith is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of more than forty novels with two million copies sold. Before his writing career, he served at Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management, a background that inspired many of his story concepts. A two time Ironman triathlete, he enjoys running, biking, and hiking. Nicholas also loves traveling, especially to his cabin in Northern Minnesota where he weaves his tales. He lives in Iowa with his wonderful wife and their son and daughter.
Note: Nicholas is no longer an active user on Goodreads and does not use the platform. If you want to connect with him on social media here are some links. He would love to hear from you.
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Website: nicholassansburysmith.com
Instagram: instagram.com/author_sansbury/
Note: Nicholas is no longer an active user on Goodreads and does not use the platform. If you want to connect with him on social media here are some links. He would love to hear from you.
Facebook Fan Club: https://www.facebook.com/groups/NSSFa...
Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/nicholassans...
Website: nicholassansburysmith.com
Instagram: instagram.com/author_sansbury/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 554 reviews
June 6, 2023
Treachery and Non-Stop Action!
The Hell Divers, fearless, brave and ferocious, are ripping open another episode.
In the second book of this series, the team is called upon to dive to the surface to scavenge for supplies and search for the people who sent out an SOS.
They meet some of the same monsters that they met in the previous book of this series. This is something that they are used to dealing with.
But they aren’t prepared for the welcome they encounter from visiting a hilltop bastion.
Thank goodness violence is something that they are able to understand.
Five stars. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Hell Divers, fearless, brave and ferocious, are ripping open another episode.
In the second book of this series, the team is called upon to dive to the surface to scavenge for supplies and search for the people who sent out an SOS.
They meet some of the same monsters that they met in the previous book of this series. This is something that they are used to dealing with.
But they aren’t prepared for the welcome they encounter from visiting a hilltop bastion.
Thank goodness violence is something that they are able to understand.
Five stars. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
February 14, 2024
Set 260ish years in the future after WW3 when the earth is no longer livable. Survivors live on floating ships, the Hives, and rely on brave Divers to scavenge a now toxic planet full of monsters for supplies.
Starts with a bang and ends with a bang. Such a fun series and high on adrenaline. Terrific world-building with many characters that I cared about and couldn't wait to find out their fate.
Starts with a bang and ends with a bang. Such a fun series and high on adrenaline. Terrific world-building with many characters that I cared about and couldn't wait to find out their fate.
August 12, 2017
Picking up ten years after the events of the first book, Ghosts continues the frenetic pace set by its predecessor...maybe even a tad too frenetic. Some breathing room would have been appreciated. Still, RC Bray did another great job with the narration in bringing this post-apocalyptic story to life. The ending left me clamoring for the next book, if for no other reason than to see a certain character meet the ol' head on a pike fate. I'm reeeaaalllly looking forward to that.
November 2, 2017
Worst part about reading a NSS book? Having to wait a whole year for the next one!! WAAAAA!!!
I always wait too long to review NSS’s books. It’s obviously not that I don’t love them, I just always think if I give myself some more time the perfect review will just come to me.
That is not the case. So, I’m going to keep this short and sweet.
If you enjoy post-apocalyptic fiction with a militaristic viewpoint, and you haven’t read a Nicholas Sansbury Smith book yet, then shame on you! I can say for certain that NSS is one of maybe 5 authors I will immediately read whatever they write because I always enjoy them. Hell Divers 2 was no different. I devoured this book once I started it! And if you’ve read HD1 then you know exactly why. Taking place almost 10 years after Hell Divers 1, we are definitely left with a lot of holes to be filled. Many of these are taken care of in this 2nd installment, as the book goes on, but again, we get to the ending and I’m screaming and throwing my hands up in the air as I silently cry and pout about not having the next book yet. HD2 had just as much action and mutants as HD1, but HD2 gives us a whole different kind of villain. A man who is selfish, despicable, and I swear, emotionless. I’ll be very happy to find out what his comeuppance ends up being in book 3.
I’m not going into anything else because I don’t want there to be spoilers for anyone that is trying to decide if they want to pick up this series, or not. But here’s my advice, READ IT! READ IT NOW!!! Then join me in my misery as I wait for book 3…
Received via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I always wait too long to review NSS’s books. It’s obviously not that I don’t love them, I just always think if I give myself some more time the perfect review will just come to me.
That is not the case. So, I’m going to keep this short and sweet.
If you enjoy post-apocalyptic fiction with a militaristic viewpoint, and you haven’t read a Nicholas Sansbury Smith book yet, then shame on you! I can say for certain that NSS is one of maybe 5 authors I will immediately read whatever they write because I always enjoy them. Hell Divers 2 was no different. I devoured this book once I started it! And if you’ve read HD1 then you know exactly why. Taking place almost 10 years after Hell Divers 1, we are definitely left with a lot of holes to be filled. Many of these are taken care of in this 2nd installment, as the book goes on, but again, we get to the ending and I’m screaming and throwing my hands up in the air as I silently cry and pout about not having the next book yet. HD2 had just as much action and mutants as HD1, but HD2 gives us a whole different kind of villain. A man who is selfish, despicable, and I swear, emotionless. I’ll be very happy to find out what his comeuppance ends up being in book 3.
I’m not going into anything else because I don’t want there to be spoilers for anyone that is trying to decide if they want to pick up this series, or not. But here’s my advice, READ IT! READ IT NOW!!! Then join me in my misery as I wait for book 3…
Received via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 14, 2021
Ghosts
(Hell Divers #2)
by Nicholas Sansbury Smith
I love this series already! I read the first book a long time ago but finally got the next books. These are so thrilling and suspenseful! In this one, A team goes looking for a missing female team member that fell while working on the outside of the ship. What they didn't know was that X was still alive after 10 years!
Pretty exciting situations and story!
(Hell Divers #2)
by Nicholas Sansbury Smith
I love this series already! I read the first book a long time ago but finally got the next books. These are so thrilling and suspenseful! In this one, A team goes looking for a missing female team member that fell while working on the outside of the ship. What they didn't know was that X was still alive after 10 years!
Pretty exciting situations and story!
April 16, 2023
Mr. Sansbury Smith continues to keep my adrenaline pumping in Ghosts (Hell Divers, #2).
The group ventures out of the hive on a mysterious assignment for their Captain. In addition, a harrowing incident happens to a diver, leaving them with no option but too seriously ponder some troubling questions concerning loyalty and trust within their tight Hell Divers posse. And... as if that is not exciting enough... the group is also confronted with some hideous otherworldly creatures, which kept me on the edge of my seat because they sounded like they could have risen out of the original primordial ooze. On that note, I hope there is more monster action to come in the rest of this series.
R.C. Bray continues to do an exceptional job bringing every book he narrates to life for his listeners. Thank you.
Finally, this book will take you from thrill to another, with barely a moment to catch your breath, and comes with my highest of recommendations for those who like a mixture of Sci-Fi, suspense, and horror all rolled into one. This has it all, and then some.
Enjoy.
The group ventures out of the hive on a mysterious assignment for their Captain. In addition, a harrowing incident happens to a diver, leaving them with no option but too seriously ponder some troubling questions concerning loyalty and trust within their tight Hell Divers posse. And... as if that is not exciting enough... the group is also confronted with some hideous otherworldly creatures, which kept me on the edge of my seat because they sounded like they could have risen out of the original primordial ooze. On that note, I hope there is more monster action to come in the rest of this series.
R.C. Bray continues to do an exceptional job bringing every book he narrates to life for his listeners. Thank you.
Finally, this book will take you from thrill to another, with barely a moment to catch your breath, and comes with my highest of recommendations for those who like a mixture of Sci-Fi, suspense, and horror all rolled into one. This has it all, and then some.
Enjoy.
July 11, 2017
4 Stars
Review:
*I received an ecopy of this book via NetGalley. This has not influenced my review.*
Much like the first book, this was an intense, gripping post-apocalyptic read. The world-building in this series is incredible and really makes me feel like I’m there, especially on the bleak, terrifying surface. The characters are all flawed and gruff, but most of them are still likeable and good people. The concept of the airship and the hell divers is such a unique one (I mean, come on, just look at the kickass suit on the cover). In short—these books are so well thought-out and well-written, and there is so much to love about them.
I felt like this book suffered a bit from middle book syndrome though. It seemed kind of repetitive (the ship was falling apart, hell divers had to go on dangerous missions, the surface was filled with mutated monsters that tried to kill them, etc.), and even though it did eventually start getting to the secrets mentioned in the blurb, it still seems like little actually happened plot-wise. But the things that did happen were significant, some info was found that shed more light on the world and the creatures, and it seems as though a lot of interesting stuff is going to happen in the next book.
There was one major difference between this book and the first one though, and that was the main characters. I admit I was disappointed to find out X wouldn’t be a main character in this one since, to put it simply, his character was awesome, but all the hell diver POV characters were just as unique and well-written. I’ve read a lot of books lately in which all the third person POVs sounded the same, but I never found myself getting confused about whose POV I was in while reading this book. And for anyone who has finished Book 1 but is unsure about whether to continue because of the ending, *SPOILER* *END SPOILER*
There was also Captain Jordan instead of Captain Ash this time, and JORDAN WAS AN AWFUL PERSON. He liked to pretend he had the best interests of all the people on the ship at heart, but most of his decisions were actually as selfish as selfish can get. If you like a good hate-able antagonist to root against, you won’t be disappointed. *SPOILER* *END SPOILER*
Overall, despite some repetition in the plot, this was a gripping book that I didn’t want to put down with flawed but good-hearted characters, intense scenes, and a unique, complex post-apocalyptic world!
Recommended For:
Fans of Book 1 in Nicholas Sanbury Smith's Hell Divers Series. Anyone looking for a crazy, intense, gritty, gripping, unique post-apocalyptic story and gruff, flawed, but still likeable characters.
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
Review:
*I received an ecopy of this book via NetGalley. This has not influenced my review.*
Much like the first book, this was an intense, gripping post-apocalyptic read. The world-building in this series is incredible and really makes me feel like I’m there, especially on the bleak, terrifying surface. The characters are all flawed and gruff, but most of them are still likeable and good people. The concept of the airship and the hell divers is such a unique one (I mean, come on, just look at the kickass suit on the cover). In short—these books are so well thought-out and well-written, and there is so much to love about them.
I felt like this book suffered a bit from middle book syndrome though. It seemed kind of repetitive (the ship was falling apart, hell divers had to go on dangerous missions, the surface was filled with mutated monsters that tried to kill them, etc.), and even though it did eventually start getting to the secrets mentioned in the blurb, it still seems like little actually happened plot-wise. But the things that did happen were significant, some info was found that shed more light on the world and the creatures, and it seems as though a lot of interesting stuff is going to happen in the next book.
There was one major difference between this book and the first one though, and that was the main characters. I admit I was disappointed to find out X wouldn’t be a main character in this one since, to put it simply, his character was awesome, but all the hell diver POV characters were just as unique and well-written. I’ve read a lot of books lately in which all the third person POVs sounded the same, but I never found myself getting confused about whose POV I was in while reading this book. And for anyone who has finished Book 1 but is unsure about whether to continue because of the ending, *SPOILER* *END SPOILER*
There was also Captain Jordan instead of Captain Ash this time, and JORDAN WAS AN AWFUL PERSON. He liked to pretend he had the best interests of all the people on the ship at heart, but most of his decisions were actually as selfish as selfish can get. If you like a good hate-able antagonist to root against, you won’t be disappointed. *SPOILER* *END SPOILER*
Overall, despite some repetition in the plot, this was a gripping book that I didn’t want to put down with flawed but good-hearted characters, intense scenes, and a unique, complex post-apocalyptic world!
Recommended For:
Fans of Book 1 in Nicholas Sanbury Smith's Hell Divers Series. Anyone looking for a crazy, intense, gritty, gripping, unique post-apocalyptic story and gruff, flawed, but still likeable characters.
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
November 2, 2020
Just like the first book, this was a fun read. Lots of action and a good story continuing on from the first. I’m glad I gave this a shot and will be continuing on.
June 14, 2022
4 out of 5!
So, I had to read book 2 to find out what became of Tin, now known as Michael, and "X".
And while following Tin was not as compelling as following "X" I did still enjoy the story.
And Captain Jordan?! Wow what a piece of work!
He is definitely no Captain Ash, but he's a character that I loved to hate.
Ghosts definitely has way more juiciness thanks to Captain Jordan.
He is hiding so much and doing so much dirt. Ooh he got on my nerves!
And of course book 2 has all of the same elements that I loved about book 1...
-Horror
-Heart
-Social commentary
-Comedy
-Great characters (not as compelling as book 1 though)
-Suspense
We also find out more about this post apocalyptic world, which I really enjoyed.
And of course I want to keep going and find out what happens in Deliverance (Book 3).
Can't wait to continue the ride!
Video Review: https://youtu.be/9w5zKxtgLUg
So, I had to read book 2 to find out what became of Tin, now known as Michael, and "X".
And while following Tin was not as compelling as following "X" I did still enjoy the story.
And Captain Jordan?! Wow what a piece of work!
He is definitely no Captain Ash, but he's a character that I loved to hate.
Ghosts definitely has way more juiciness thanks to Captain Jordan.
He is hiding so much and doing so much dirt. Ooh he got on my nerves!
And of course book 2 has all of the same elements that I loved about book 1...
-Horror
-Heart
-Social commentary
-Comedy
-Great characters (not as compelling as book 1 though)
-Suspense
We also find out more about this post apocalyptic world, which I really enjoyed.
And of course I want to keep going and find out what happens in Deliverance (Book 3).
Can't wait to continue the ride!
Video Review: https://youtu.be/9w5zKxtgLUg
January 21, 2025
What a ride and OMG this ending. Thank God I have the next book ready to go.
This was incredible. Amazingly written and while it might have been a little repetitive with all the Siren encounters and whatnot, it didn't feel like that and I didn't get bored once! I want to know how this goes on - Jordan needs to pay. I get he's in a tough spot but gosh, does he deserve whatever is coming. I need more X and I need a fucking reunion with him and Tin. Maybe even with Katrina.
If you're into postapoclyptic stories, try this one.
This was incredible. Amazingly written and while it might have been a little repetitive with all the Siren encounters and whatnot, it didn't feel like that and I didn't get bored once! I want to know how this goes on - Jordan needs to pay. I get he's in a tough spot but gosh, does he deserve whatever is coming. I need more X and I need a fucking reunion with him and Tin. Maybe even with Katrina.
If you're into postapoclyptic stories, try this one.
August 2, 2022
Loved this one more than the first! Picked up right where it left off and the story line and character development is awesome. My audiobooks have been bomb lately. I had this series in my TBR shelf FOREVER and I'm so glad I started it. TBH it's all because of RC Bray.
July 18, 2017
*4.5 Stars
I love a summer sequel; getting reacquainted with some old friends, making some new ones and just enjoying the time spent together. The familiarity of the sequel is comforting. I am already invested in the world, I know the backstory, and I have an idea of where I would like the adventure to go. Ghosts fits the summer sequel spot superbly.
In all honesty, I think that Hell Divers #2 had some challenges to overcome. You see, I felt like the original was a complete story. I didn’t think that I needed anything more, but curiosity got the best of me and I jumped at the opportunity to read book #2. Well, Sansbury Smith kicked this one off with an unexpected bang and I was on board. He created a necessity where there was none.
With X out of the picture, we have a new hero. Our little friend Tin from book #1 is all grown up and has enlisted in the family business. He is the perfect hero to pick up where X left off. He is everything that X is not, yet the two have so much in common. As a reader, I was glad to see that things worked out for Tin, as much as they could in this environment. It was good to see him come into his own. Tin is not X, but he is just as complex. The supporting cast contained a mix of new and familiar faces, each one critical in moving the story forward. The villain, well, he is just pure “Dr. Evil”, I loved to hate him.
Ghosts was a great story that pulled me further into the franchise. Unlike book #1, this story is not over, the shit has really hit the fan and I’ll be sticking around to find out where it all lands. I have a summer sequel for 2018 already on my list.
*I received a copy of the book from the publisher (via NetGalley) in exchange for an honest review.
I love a summer sequel; getting reacquainted with some old friends, making some new ones and just enjoying the time spent together. The familiarity of the sequel is comforting. I am already invested in the world, I know the backstory, and I have an idea of where I would like the adventure to go. Ghosts fits the summer sequel spot superbly.
In all honesty, I think that Hell Divers #2 had some challenges to overcome. You see, I felt like the original was a complete story. I didn’t think that I needed anything more, but curiosity got the best of me and I jumped at the opportunity to read book #2. Well, Sansbury Smith kicked this one off with an unexpected bang and I was on board. He created a necessity where there was none.
With X out of the picture, we have a new hero. Our little friend Tin from book #1 is all grown up and has enlisted in the family business. He is the perfect hero to pick up where X left off. He is everything that X is not, yet the two have so much in common. As a reader, I was glad to see that things worked out for Tin, as much as they could in this environment. It was good to see him come into his own. Tin is not X, but he is just as complex. The supporting cast contained a mix of new and familiar faces, each one critical in moving the story forward. The villain, well, he is just pure “Dr. Evil”, I loved to hate him.
Ghosts was a great story that pulled me further into the franchise. Unlike book #1, this story is not over, the shit has really hit the fan and I’ll be sticking around to find out where it all lands. I have a summer sequel for 2018 already on my list.
*I received a copy of the book from the publisher (via NetGalley) in exchange for an honest review.
July 1, 2018
Absolutely love this series! Every book happens "in a blink," meaning the read is fast because the story is so compelling. Loved seeing the helldivers back in action, especially coming back around to Everheart.
December 4, 2019
I love this series!
July 1, 2017
Readers of the first Hell Divers novel will feel right at home with Ghosts, Smith's follow-up to last year's hit.
Set ten years after the shocking ending of volume one in this trilogy, the Hell Divers continue to deploy from their airship to explore the poisoned, desolate remains of an uninhabitable Earth. This elite squad of future soldiers are constantly searching for parts to keep the Hive afloat and in one piece, a task easier said than done for a centuries old airship that has seen far better days. Adding to the importance of each mission is the unstated fact that humanity itself depends on their success. Aboard the Hive are four hundred souls, the last of a very nearly extinct human race.
Adding to the stakes in Ghosts are a duplicitous captain seeking to keep secret the truth of what waits below on the devastated planet. As certain factions aboard the Hive get closer to uncovering his lies, Captain Jordan will go to any lengths to keep those secrets hidden, including betraying the Hell Divers.
If you've been reading Smith's work for any length of time, then you'll know what to expect here - lots of frenetic military action and plenty of high-stakes adventure set against a high concept sci-fi backdrop, with plenty of horrifying, bloodthirsty monsters thrown into the mix. Hell Divers II: Ghosts has all this, plus a few new wrinkles to broaden the scope of the overarching Hell Divers story. This is a fun, fast-paced read and it sets the stage for a big, wild, head-long race to the finish in next year's Deliverance.
[Note: I received an advanced copy of this title from the publisher via NetGalley.]
Set ten years after the shocking ending of volume one in this trilogy, the Hell Divers continue to deploy from their airship to explore the poisoned, desolate remains of an uninhabitable Earth. This elite squad of future soldiers are constantly searching for parts to keep the Hive afloat and in one piece, a task easier said than done for a centuries old airship that has seen far better days. Adding to the importance of each mission is the unstated fact that humanity itself depends on their success. Aboard the Hive are four hundred souls, the last of a very nearly extinct human race.
Adding to the stakes in Ghosts are a duplicitous captain seeking to keep secret the truth of what waits below on the devastated planet. As certain factions aboard the Hive get closer to uncovering his lies, Captain Jordan will go to any lengths to keep those secrets hidden, including betraying the Hell Divers.
If you've been reading Smith's work for any length of time, then you'll know what to expect here - lots of frenetic military action and plenty of high-stakes adventure set against a high concept sci-fi backdrop, with plenty of horrifying, bloodthirsty monsters thrown into the mix. Hell Divers II: Ghosts has all this, plus a few new wrinkles to broaden the scope of the overarching Hell Divers story. This is a fun, fast-paced read and it sets the stage for a big, wild, head-long race to the finish in next year's Deliverance.
[Note: I received an advanced copy of this title from the publisher via NetGalley.]
January 2, 2018
After the ending for the first book, which nearly killed me, I was clapping my hands in stupid glee when I read the beginning for this second book. I got all silly, talking out loud to myself about how good this was going to be.
It’s many years later and there’s some new divers in town. They don’t have much of a life expectancy and recruits are always needed. When disaster strikes the sister ship and a risky rescue is attempted, no one could have foreseen what was to come. The conspiracies that would be revealed. The secrets kept. And…what horrors waited below, on the surface.
Man, I hope they make these books into movies. They are freakin fantastic. Action explodes off the pages. Creepy things scare the crap out of you. Suspense has you chewing your fingernails. And the character’s grab hold of you and won’t let go.
Is this book as good as the first one? Hell yes! And I’ve already pre-ordered the third one. Now waiting anxiously for it to be released. Stay tuned.
It’s many years later and there’s some new divers in town. They don’t have much of a life expectancy and recruits are always needed. When disaster strikes the sister ship and a risky rescue is attempted, no one could have foreseen what was to come. The conspiracies that would be revealed. The secrets kept. And…what horrors waited below, on the surface.
Man, I hope they make these books into movies. They are freakin fantastic. Action explodes off the pages. Creepy things scare the crap out of you. Suspense has you chewing your fingernails. And the character’s grab hold of you and won’t let go.
Is this book as good as the first one? Hell yes! And I’ve already pre-ordered the third one. Now waiting anxiously for it to be released. Stay tuned.
July 24, 2017
is book #3 out yet..?
I FREAKIN' NEED IT NOW.
Awesomeness.
I FREAKIN' NEED IT NOW.
Awesomeness.
June 28, 2017
If you’re on blood pressure medication, you might want to swallow that pill just prior to reading HD2. This remarkable series continues to ramp up the suspense. Ten years after Xavier “X” Rodriguez was left behind on earth’s horrific surface, the dwindling survivors aboard the airship Hive are running out of time. Strong writing and an ingenious plot line meld to create an outstanding work of post-apocalyptic fiction!
Looking forward to HD3 and more adventures with the stalwart "RodgeMan".
*I was given an ARC in return for an honest review.
Looking forward to HD3 and more adventures with the stalwart "RodgeMan".
*I was given an ARC in return for an honest review.
June 29, 2017
This is another excellent book written by the very creative author, Nicholas Sansbury Smith. The story picks up 10 years after Hell Divers 1 left off. It is a fast paced adrenaline rush! The characters are interesting, different and well developed. I think all readers of Dystopian/Sci-Fi will enjoy this story. . I received an advance review copy from the publisher in return for an honest review.
August 2, 2017
My original Ghosts audiobook review and many others can be found at Audiobook Reviewer.
Captain Jordan has a secret – well several, and they are about to be revealed! Tin has grown into a strong man and is Commander of the Hell Diver Raptor Team. Magnolia continues as the fastest Hell Diver of the Raptor Team but makes the ultimate sacrifice. Hell Diver Xavier Rodriguez (X) has been missing for 10 years from an ill-fated return to the ship. They all have one thing in common – a secret that Captain Jordan does not want revealed and will stop at nothing to eliminate the risk of exposure.
Every man, woman, and child on the ship are at risk. Secrets are close to being revealed and those that know them are now on the ground facing even scarier and deadlier creatures than the sirens. Nothing and no-one is safe.
The apocalyptic future that Nicolas Sansbury Smith paints for humankind is horrendous and beyond description. Smith gives us monsters that are fierce and rule the earth – but he further shows us just how far one person can go and will do to protect their beliefs and wants. Not all monsters that lurk in the shadows are what nightmares are made of, but rather the two-legged human kinds are sometimes a thousand times more evil, deadly and ferocious than the creatures roaming the earth’s surface in this series.
Smith is a masterful story-teller that keeps his fans riveted to their ear buds (headphones, etc.). The bold, never-ending action and danger is gripping. This is a series that one can lose one’s self in and never want it to end. “They dive so humanity survives”– that small phrase describes the book and its action perfectly.
R.C. Bray is perfect for this series. He captures the grittiness of each character and projects each character fully simply through his voice. He adds to the story, making it one of the most difficult books to walk away from until the end. Even then, his voice will haunt you – you will hear the voices of each character long after you finish the book. Talented and skilled at narration, both R.C. Bray and Nicolas Sansbury Smith make an awesome team!
There were no issues with the quality or production of this audiobook.
Audiobook was provided for review by the author.
Captain Jordan has a secret – well several, and they are about to be revealed! Tin has grown into a strong man and is Commander of the Hell Diver Raptor Team. Magnolia continues as the fastest Hell Diver of the Raptor Team but makes the ultimate sacrifice. Hell Diver Xavier Rodriguez (X) has been missing for 10 years from an ill-fated return to the ship. They all have one thing in common – a secret that Captain Jordan does not want revealed and will stop at nothing to eliminate the risk of exposure.
Every man, woman, and child on the ship are at risk. Secrets are close to being revealed and those that know them are now on the ground facing even scarier and deadlier creatures than the sirens. Nothing and no-one is safe.
The apocalyptic future that Nicolas Sansbury Smith paints for humankind is horrendous and beyond description. Smith gives us monsters that are fierce and rule the earth – but he further shows us just how far one person can go and will do to protect their beliefs and wants. Not all monsters that lurk in the shadows are what nightmares are made of, but rather the two-legged human kinds are sometimes a thousand times more evil, deadly and ferocious than the creatures roaming the earth’s surface in this series.
Smith is a masterful story-teller that keeps his fans riveted to their ear buds (headphones, etc.). The bold, never-ending action and danger is gripping. This is a series that one can lose one’s self in and never want it to end. “They dive so humanity survives”– that small phrase describes the book and its action perfectly.
R.C. Bray is perfect for this series. He captures the grittiness of each character and projects each character fully simply through his voice. He adds to the story, making it one of the most difficult books to walk away from until the end. Even then, his voice will haunt you – you will hear the voices of each character long after you finish the book. Talented and skilled at narration, both R.C. Bray and Nicolas Sansbury Smith make an awesome team!
There were no issues with the quality or production of this audiobook.
Audiobook was provided for review by the author.
July 7, 2018
2.5, I knew what I was getting into. This was a palate cleanser (expectation lower-er?), a break between heavier reading. All the characters are 10 years older, and that's the only growth any of them experienced. It's all action movie-esque plot with lots of gore and monsters. A fun read that doesn't need much thought.
December 3, 2018
I was ready to hunt down this author and demand an explanation for the cliffhanger in the first book. But this second book went a long way to explain some details and pose other questions. The action never quits in this story and you'd better not get attached to any of the characters. No one is safe! In some ways that's a great element and in other ways it's unnerving. So, good job on that front, Mr. Sansbury Smith. Sort of.
The narration here by RC Bray is just fabulous.
The narration here by RC Bray is just fabulous.
December 7, 2018
This 2nd book in the series was even better than the first! I stayed up much later than I should have each night. The narration was, once again, fabulous.
A lot of unanswered questions from book 1 were answered, and I got really attached to several new characters. *shaking fist at Sansbury* Don't EVEN think about killing off these 4!!
I'm jumping into book 3 right now!!!
A lot of unanswered questions from book 1 were answered, and I got really attached to several new characters. *shaking fist at Sansbury* Don't EVEN think about killing off these 4!!
I'm jumping into book 3 right now!!!
July 25, 2017
It's nearly impossible to describe this book without a major spoiler for the first book in the series. If you'd like to keep that a surprise before you read it, here's the place to stop.
When book one of the Hill Divers trilogy ended, X (Xavier Rodriguez) was floating in space having missed his rendezvous with the main ship. He had fought off the hideous siren monsters that had followed him up into the stratosphere. Wounded and bound to fall back to earth it was pretty clear that he was dead.
Book two opens with the surprising information that X survived. He's now alone back on an earth that is a nuclear wasteland with massive storms sweeping through and monsters everywhere.
Making his way around the area where he fell back to earth he's found weapons, a cache of food, and, in a cryogenics lab, found frozen people and one frozen dog. He thawed out the dog, made protective clothing for it and now has a companion. He also found a way to send radio signals.
The story jumps to eight years later. There have been major changes in the ship. Captain Ashe retired and, shortly after, died of cancer ... a common disease for many on the ship now circling the globe. The new captain is Leon Jordan, who has developed a relationship with X's love interest Katrina. Captain Jordan is overcautious. He'll barely let the Hell Divers make worthwhile dives for replacement equipment. He's also become a paranoid leader. Worse yet, he has received information that a message has been received from survivors on earth. He also knows that X survived and has been signalling the ship, but he's determined to "protect" Katrina from the information.
With the growing intrigue on the ship some of the Hell Divers discover information about the survivor's message along with information that the monsters on earth were part of a genetics project before the bombs hit.
As with the last book, Smith writes top-notch heroes and great action sequences. The new generation of Hell Divers has a great collection of men and women willing to risk their lives to keep the ship working. But now they need to go against orders on a drop to earth, and into one of the dangerous "red zones", to look for survivors and also to investigate a secret plan that the previous captain had to move the population of the ship down to earth and underground, sure that this last ship can't stay in the sky forever.
Other than X only being part of the beginning and ending of the book, this second volume reads much the same as the first one in the trilogy. If you read and liked that one, as I did, this one will not be a disappointment other than the need to adjust to a new cast of characters.
When book one of the Hill Divers trilogy ended, X (Xavier Rodriguez) was floating in space having missed his rendezvous with the main ship. He had fought off the hideous siren monsters that had followed him up into the stratosphere. Wounded and bound to fall back to earth it was pretty clear that he was dead.
Book two opens with the surprising information that X survived. He's now alone back on an earth that is a nuclear wasteland with massive storms sweeping through and monsters everywhere.
Making his way around the area where he fell back to earth he's found weapons, a cache of food, and, in a cryogenics lab, found frozen people and one frozen dog. He thawed out the dog, made protective clothing for it and now has a companion. He also found a way to send radio signals.
The story jumps to eight years later. There have been major changes in the ship. Captain Ashe retired and, shortly after, died of cancer ... a common disease for many on the ship now circling the globe. The new captain is Leon Jordan, who has developed a relationship with X's love interest Katrina. Captain Jordan is overcautious. He'll barely let the Hell Divers make worthwhile dives for replacement equipment. He's also become a paranoid leader. Worse yet, he has received information that a message has been received from survivors on earth. He also knows that X survived and has been signalling the ship, but he's determined to "protect" Katrina from the information.
With the growing intrigue on the ship some of the Hell Divers discover information about the survivor's message along with information that the monsters on earth were part of a genetics project before the bombs hit.
As with the last book, Smith writes top-notch heroes and great action sequences. The new generation of Hell Divers has a great collection of men and women willing to risk their lives to keep the ship working. But now they need to go against orders on a drop to earth, and into one of the dangerous "red zones", to look for survivors and also to investigate a secret plan that the previous captain had to move the population of the ship down to earth and underground, sure that this last ship can't stay in the sky forever.
Other than X only being part of the beginning and ending of the book, this second volume reads much the same as the first one in the trilogy. If you read and liked that one, as I did, this one will not be a disappointment other than the need to adjust to a new cast of characters.
July 22, 2017
Usually after I've read the first book in a series and I've really enjoyed it, I long for the second book. When that second book lands in my hand then the nerves set in, will it be as good as the first book, will the characters that I have invested my time in still be worth reading about.
Hell Divers II - Ghosts thankfully is I feel better than the first book, it is sent ten years after the events that left X Rodriguez stranded on the godforsaken planet that was destroyed during WW3. A new crew of Hell Divers are on duty and a new ship's captain.
The main Hell Diver is Michael aka Tin from book one, now grown up he is following in his late father and his late guardian X's footsteps.
I won't go in depth with the story but this instalment centres around a mysterious signal that has been received from down below on Earth. As we discovered in the last book the planet below is far from empty but the creatures that roam the planet are far from friendly and they are in the way of the Hell Divers getting to the source of the signal.
Is there anyone left alive down there after all these years and why is the Captain hiding another transmission that has been broadcast?
I really enjoyed this, the setting is still hellish and perfectly described. The creatures down below are still murderous and what I liked was that you get an idea of exactly how the came about.
This series has gotten better which is a rare treat and has me very hopeful for the next book.
Thank you to Blackstone for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Hell Divers II - Ghosts thankfully is I feel better than the first book, it is sent ten years after the events that left X Rodriguez stranded on the godforsaken planet that was destroyed during WW3. A new crew of Hell Divers are on duty and a new ship's captain.
The main Hell Diver is Michael aka Tin from book one, now grown up he is following in his late father and his late guardian X's footsteps.
I won't go in depth with the story but this instalment centres around a mysterious signal that has been received from down below on Earth. As we discovered in the last book the planet below is far from empty but the creatures that roam the planet are far from friendly and they are in the way of the Hell Divers getting to the source of the signal.
Is there anyone left alive down there after all these years and why is the Captain hiding another transmission that has been broadcast?
I really enjoyed this, the setting is still hellish and perfectly described. The creatures down below are still murderous and what I liked was that you get an idea of exactly how the came about.
This series has gotten better which is a rare treat and has me very hopeful for the next book.
Thank you to Blackstone for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 20, 2017
I won this book as a giveaway.
I really enjoyed it without having read the first, but probably best to read in order. Looking forward to the next book. I like post-apocalyptic fiction and this book didn't disappoint. It has an excellent story that I couldn't put this book down. It is action filled and I enjoyed the way the story is written and how the characters are developed.
I really enjoyed it without having read the first, but probably best to read in order. Looking forward to the next book. I like post-apocalyptic fiction and this book didn't disappoint. It has an excellent story that I couldn't put this book down. It is action filled and I enjoyed the way the story is written and how the characters are developed.
October 15, 2017
I put this one off - a 10 year gap. I didn't think I was going to like it. I was wrong. It was amazing. Listened to the whole thing in one day, too.
July 22, 2018
“Ghosts” the second in the intriguing and exciting Hell Divers series opens ten years after Hell Diver Xavier “X” Rodriguez plummeted back to Hades, having had no response to the SOS sent to his airship and eluding the Siren swarm with his dog Miles. On board the ship a grownup Michael Everhart (Tin) commands the Raptor Team, while Captain Leon Jordon rules the ship; the death toll for Hell Divers high as they search for parts and power cells in the radiated wasteland of Earth while still-born babies are the norm and cancer stalks the halls claiming more of humanity’s last survivors.
Intertwined in this plot is the search for survivors in the ITC bunker on Hilltop Bastion after an SOS is received, while on the Hive Michael and his team search for the truth about the past, uncovering Captain Jordon’s long-held secrets that he will do anything to cover up.
Set in the future after the death of Captain Ash who wanted to find a new home for the remnant of humanity on the airship, the Hive groaning and creaking after 260 years, a refuge must be found before mankind no longer exists. Into an atmosphere of fear, uncertainty, violence and death, after a harrowing storm and the loss of the ship’s rudders causes an accident that sends Hell Diver Magnolia Kalib hurtling to earth the story heats up when Captain Jordon reluctantly sends a dive team to follow-up on a mysterious distress call and to locate her body. Intensity and suspense escalate not only as the team discovers that she’s alive and someone on board wants her dead but after every confrontation with mutant creatures like the Sirens and the Vultures they discover secrets from mankind’s past.
Fast-paced and action-packed, the plot twists and turns as Tin and Lyla Brower begin to unravel Captain Jordon’s sinister deception while revealing a prophecy and discovering a lost transmission that sends them hurtling to earth to find the Hell Diver Team so together they can search for a Diver long missing. A page-turner as the Hell Divers face off with Sirens and other mutated creatures, this well-developed plot moves to a thrilling ending that promises an electrifying third book.
Among the compelling characters that bring the story to life are calm and logical Commander Michael Everhart (Tin); stubborn, tough and smart Lieutenant Katrina DaVita; the fearless and feisty Magnolia Katib; impulsive and unflustered Layla Brower; as well as the cold, uncompromising Captain Leon Jordon. All add to the tension and drama that swirls around the crew and airship in this post-apocalyptic world.
“Ghosts” is a soaring adventure loaded with a mesmerizing plot and great characters as the Hell Divers struggle to save the last remnant of humanity. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
Intertwined in this plot is the search for survivors in the ITC bunker on Hilltop Bastion after an SOS is received, while on the Hive Michael and his team search for the truth about the past, uncovering Captain Jordon’s long-held secrets that he will do anything to cover up.
Set in the future after the death of Captain Ash who wanted to find a new home for the remnant of humanity on the airship, the Hive groaning and creaking after 260 years, a refuge must be found before mankind no longer exists. Into an atmosphere of fear, uncertainty, violence and death, after a harrowing storm and the loss of the ship’s rudders causes an accident that sends Hell Diver Magnolia Kalib hurtling to earth the story heats up when Captain Jordon reluctantly sends a dive team to follow-up on a mysterious distress call and to locate her body. Intensity and suspense escalate not only as the team discovers that she’s alive and someone on board wants her dead but after every confrontation with mutant creatures like the Sirens and the Vultures they discover secrets from mankind’s past.
Fast-paced and action-packed, the plot twists and turns as Tin and Lyla Brower begin to unravel Captain Jordon’s sinister deception while revealing a prophecy and discovering a lost transmission that sends them hurtling to earth to find the Hell Diver Team so together they can search for a Diver long missing. A page-turner as the Hell Divers face off with Sirens and other mutated creatures, this well-developed plot moves to a thrilling ending that promises an electrifying third book.
Among the compelling characters that bring the story to life are calm and logical Commander Michael Everhart (Tin); stubborn, tough and smart Lieutenant Katrina DaVita; the fearless and feisty Magnolia Katib; impulsive and unflustered Layla Brower; as well as the cold, uncompromising Captain Leon Jordon. All add to the tension and drama that swirls around the crew and airship in this post-apocalyptic world.
“Ghosts” is a soaring adventure loaded with a mesmerizing plot and great characters as the Hell Divers struggle to save the last remnant of humanity. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
May 22, 2025
Hell Divers II: Ghosts by Nicholas Sansbury Smith
challenging dark hopeful sad tense
Medium-paced
Plot or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters are a main focus? Yes
3.5 Stars
I am enjoying my progression through the Hell Divers series. I saw the other day...a Hell Divers game. Didn't know that it was an adaptation of the game (or am I wrong?).
I was happy to see that one of my predictions from book one came true. Yahoo!
Also, not a fan of the current captain of our ship. Ten years has passed, and things seem to have gotten worse...if that is to be believed. Ugh.
Tin is all grown up, and is now called Michael by most. He's a Hell Diver now, too. He's got a significant other. Which is nice to see. Things have a normality at high tension. Cannot be healthy...being on a ship that is falling apart...and has been flying consistantly for OVER 260 years. How is that even possible.
Love the action that happens on the planet...and things that the Hell Divers find out...while "on the ground".
I'm really interested in what the third book in the series is going to take us. Will be picking up Hell Divers III: Deliverance. Hmm. What will be thier deliverance, and what from? Hmm?
challenging dark hopeful sad tense
Medium-paced
Plot or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters are a main focus? Yes
3.5 Stars
I am enjoying my progression through the Hell Divers series. I saw the other day...a Hell Divers game. Didn't know that it was an adaptation of the game (or am I wrong?).
I was happy to see that one of my predictions from book one came true. Yahoo!
Also, not a fan of the current captain of our ship. Ten years has passed, and things seem to have gotten worse...if that is to be believed. Ugh.
Tin is all grown up, and is now called Michael by most. He's a Hell Diver now, too. He's got a significant other. Which is nice to see. Things have a normality at high tension. Cannot be healthy...being on a ship that is falling apart...and has been flying consistantly for OVER 260 years. How is that even possible.
Love the action that happens on the planet...and things that the Hell Divers find out...while "on the ground".
I'm really interested in what the third book in the series is going to take us. Will be picking up Hell Divers III: Deliverance. Hmm. What will be thier deliverance, and what from? Hmm?
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