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The Last Survivors #1
Codename: Winterborn
After a small nuclear war in 2090, a third of the world is in ruins, along with the Western half of the United States. Three years later, intelligence officer Kevin Anderson and his team are sent to find the nuclear arsenal of the Islamic Republic of France. When his team is betrayed by the politicians who sent them, Kevin is out for blood. Hunted by an army, Kevin must kill the Senators before the next team is sent to their deaths.
Without resources, or support, it's almost certainly a suicide mission. But Kevin will gladly make this sacrifice, for his codename is Winterborn.
Without resources, or support, it's almost certainly a suicide mission. But Kevin will gladly make this sacrifice, for his codename is Winterborn.
283 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 27, 2013
3 people are currently reading
79 people want to read
About the author
Declan Finn
108 books748 followersDeclan Finn is the NYC based author of books ranging from thrillers to urban fantasy to SciFi, including the 2016 Dragon Award Nominated Novel for Best horror, Honor at Stake, 2017 for Live and Let Bite, and 2018 for Codename: Unsub in best Apocalypse. He is known for "his strong fight scenes and is romance novels are sexy without being dirty, providing enough sexual tension to curl toes."
He hosts the Catholic Geek Radio show, and can be found wherever someone is starting trouble. He also writes thrillers, video game reviews, and works for several blogs.
He is one of a legion of writers over at The Catholic Geeks blog (a legion, for we are many). Other books he has written includes the comedy-thriller It Was Only on Stun! where he blows up a sci-fi convention (no, not this one). He co-authored the science fiction espionage novel Codename: Winterborn. However, he is most proud of The Pius Trilogy – which includes “A Pius Man,” “A Pius Legacy,” “A Pius Stand,” and an anthology, “Pius Tales.”
He hosts the Catholic Geek Radio show, and can be found wherever someone is starting trouble. He also writes thrillers, video game reviews, and works for several blogs.
He is one of a legion of writers over at The Catholic Geeks blog (a legion, for we are many). Other books he has written includes the comedy-thriller It Was Only on Stun! where he blows up a sci-fi convention (no, not this one). He co-authored the science fiction espionage novel Codename: Winterborn. However, he is most proud of The Pius Trilogy – which includes “A Pius Man,” “A Pius Legacy,” “A Pius Stand,” and an anthology, “Pius Tales.”
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Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews
May 11, 2014
Good book, very fast paced and compelling. The premise of an American group of operatives being betrayed by politicians is less fantastic today than it might have been just a few years ago, and the justice/revenge plotline that takes up the first half of the story is exceptionally satisfying. (However, be prepared for a couple of truly gruesome scenes. They are well earned on an emotional level, but not for the faint of heart.) The author has excellent timing and knows how to keep a reader well engaged for the duration. Just as we think the story is getting repetitive (how many politicians can be killed in how many different ways before the novelty is gone?), there is an abrupt change of pace. While the first part is basically "Ten Little Indians" on steroids, the second part is a twist on Escape From L.A. Sadly, no Snake Plisskin in sight, but plenty of new excitement and action along the way. And just as the reader starts thinking, "Hey, this second part should have been another book!" everything cycles back to the original premise, making for a well thought out, fully coherent story.
Now, for the characters. The protagonist somehow manages to stay sympathetic and very human throughout, even though he spends most of the book being at least marginally insane. Secondary characters are nicely layered, interacting with the protagonist in sometimes unpredictable, always interesting ways, and always leaving the reader wanting to know more about them. The ending gives just enough closure to not be a shameless "hurry up and buy my next book" cliff hanger, but definitely leaves a room for a sequel, currently in the works.
Recommended to political/military thriller fans as well as those who enjoy vigilante justice stories.
Now, for the characters. The protagonist somehow manages to stay sympathetic and very human throughout, even though he spends most of the book being at least marginally insane. Secondary characters are nicely layered, interacting with the protagonist in sometimes unpredictable, always interesting ways, and always leaving the reader wanting to know more about them. The ending gives just enough closure to not be a shameless "hurry up and buy my next book" cliff hanger, but definitely leaves a room for a sequel, currently in the works.
Recommended to political/military thriller fans as well as those who enjoy vigilante justice stories.
August 31, 2013
Lt. Kevin Anderson likes to kill people. Kevin is a psychopath and if you were to say to Kevin, “Kevin, you’re a psychopath,” he’s respond, “Well, duh.” You never want to give a psychopath cause to come after you and ESPECIALLY not to make that revenge personal. Kevin’s tendency toward violence and his no-nonsense approach to doing what needs to be done makes him a very interesting character to read. That his whole team, including the woman he loved, was killed gives him the anger and impetus to strike out. He’s brutal and he does what he has to do to stay alive and to avenge his team…and also because he enjoys it. There is a dark sense of humor in the narrative that enhances this character so that he is one you want to read and read again. He is a nutjob and you will love him.
The futuristic setting created by Finn and Yoskowitz is deeply complex. There is a backstory which the authors wisely convey in the story’s narrative. Birth rates in Muslim homes in France were such that by the mid-21st century France was under Sharia law and constantly threatening the United States with their nuclear power.
To say that Codename: Winterborn was a good read would be understating. It was a phenomenal read. This is a military/political thriller set in the future in a world somewhat the same but very different. The authors take the reader on a high flying action ride that is always moving forward. Expertly edited and without any of that annoying filler or fat to spare, we’re with Kevin as he suffers a huge loss and decides to take revenge. This is the classic western tale set in the near future and starring a former Navy Seal. The plot twists and turns were creative and unique and the characters met along the way a true testament of the skill and talent of Finn and Yoskowitz.
Normally when I see that a novel has only 5 star reviews I get suspicious. Can a book really be that good? Did a few of these reviewers give birth to the authors? Do they have to live with them once the review is read? In this case the 5 stars are richly deserved. Codename Winterborn is a novel not to be missed. If you like thrillers and really good antiheroes pick this one up today!
The futuristic setting created by Finn and Yoskowitz is deeply complex. There is a backstory which the authors wisely convey in the story’s narrative. Birth rates in Muslim homes in France were such that by the mid-21st century France was under Sharia law and constantly threatening the United States with their nuclear power.
To say that Codename: Winterborn was a good read would be understating. It was a phenomenal read. This is a military/political thriller set in the future in a world somewhat the same but very different. The authors take the reader on a high flying action ride that is always moving forward. Expertly edited and without any of that annoying filler or fat to spare, we’re with Kevin as he suffers a huge loss and decides to take revenge. This is the classic western tale set in the near future and starring a former Navy Seal. The plot twists and turns were creative and unique and the characters met along the way a true testament of the skill and talent of Finn and Yoskowitz.
Normally when I see that a novel has only 5 star reviews I get suspicious. Can a book really be that good? Did a few of these reviewers give birth to the authors? Do they have to live with them once the review is read? In this case the 5 stars are richly deserved. Codename Winterborn is a novel not to be missed. If you like thrillers and really good antiheroes pick this one up today!
January 3, 2015
I didn’t know this was a sci fi book. I got it as a recommendation from a friend and didn’t pay attention. Then I began to read and saw the date, 2090. Okay, I’ll stick with it. I’m glad I did. It’s like Vince Flynn wrote a futuristic dystopian sci fi political military thriller. It’s all there. It’s light on the dystopia although the setting of this Novel is definitely possible and is easily imagined with familiar places and names. It’s not so heavy on the Sci Fi that a mortal like myself can’t follow it, mostly technology and several interesting tools of destruction. Politics? Oh yeah, my favorite kind.
Where this book excels is action. It does not stop. A heartbroken Assassin Named Kevin, Kevin? That’s right Kevin, leaves numerous bodies in his wake while being chased. I’m not into spoilers, but lets just say that this book is a lot of fun, well written and painless to read.
Where this book excels is action. It does not stop. A heartbroken Assassin Named Kevin, Kevin? That’s right Kevin, leaves numerous bodies in his wake while being chased. I’m not into spoilers, but lets just say that this book is a lot of fun, well written and painless to read.
January 1, 2023
This is the 25 volume I have read from the pen of Declan Finn, and only the second that is a collaboration with another author. I have read 24 of those in under the last year. I have been reading his works at a pace of about a book a week. It is an excellent read, and I am sorry the series has only two volumes. The description of this book is:
“After a small nuclear war in 2090, a third of the world is in ruins, along with the Western half of the United States. Three years later, intelligence officer Kevin Anderson and his team are sent to find the nuclear arsenal of the Islamic Republic of France. When his team is betrayed by the politicians who sent them, Kevin is out for blood. Hunted by an army, Kevin must kill the Senators before the next team is sent to their deaths.
Without resources, or support, it's almost certainly a suicide mission. But Kevin will gladly make this sacrifice, for his codename is Winterborn.”
It has a bit of a feel of a mashup of Jack Reacher, the Punisher, the Equalizer and MacGyver. And it is a greatly entertaining read. Kevin’s team is wiped out. He survives and vows vengeance. Not even he is sure if he can pull of the mission he has set for himself. But he will either complete the tasks or die trying. He is up against the Mercenary Guild, private actors, and more.
Kevin Anderson has some very specific skills, skills the government paint to train and hone. Then a subset of that government sold out his team. His background:
“Lt. Kevin Michael Anderson. USMC Codename: Spartan. SEAL Codename: Winterborn. CID Codename: Nemesis. Airborne Rated, Ranger Qualified. Mossad Certified: Urban Warfare Specialist. Marksmanship Medal. Other Medals Classified. Current Status: Classified.”
And as he faces the final target on his list:
“Kevin Anderson looked down the barrels of the shotgun without fear or worry. He had known from the beginning that as long as he made certain the last member of the committee was dead, his life or death wouldn't matter.
And in my dying / I'm more alive/ than I have ever been/ I will make this sacrifice/ For I am Winterborn. The shotgun closed with a snap. Kevin's breath came in ragged gasps. Hell, it hurt to breathe... “If I die, it's gonna be with my teeth in your throat.”
“I don't think you can do that without a skull to fit the teeth into,” Kirk answered conversationally, right before he fired again.”
And he encounters Kyle Elsen the last master assassin, and possibly the last member of the assassin guild. He is exiled and find a new home. A home he will fight for. Kill for. And He will not rest! Amazing characters, excellent story arc, and a break neck pace.
This is another excellent read from the pen of Declan Finn. It is my first encounter of the works of Allan Yoskowitz, and I believe his only other is the companion volume to this Codename: UnSub. For fans of the Saint Tommy I am certain you will appreciate Kevin. Think a Jason Bourne who was raised Catholic and holds his beliefs as central to his being. An excellent read I cannot recommend this book enough!
Note: This book is part of a series of reviews: 2023 Catholic Reading Plan!
“After a small nuclear war in 2090, a third of the world is in ruins, along with the Western half of the United States. Three years later, intelligence officer Kevin Anderson and his team are sent to find the nuclear arsenal of the Islamic Republic of France. When his team is betrayed by the politicians who sent them, Kevin is out for blood. Hunted by an army, Kevin must kill the Senators before the next team is sent to their deaths.
Without resources, or support, it's almost certainly a suicide mission. But Kevin will gladly make this sacrifice, for his codename is Winterborn.”
It has a bit of a feel of a mashup of Jack Reacher, the Punisher, the Equalizer and MacGyver. And it is a greatly entertaining read. Kevin’s team is wiped out. He survives and vows vengeance. Not even he is sure if he can pull of the mission he has set for himself. But he will either complete the tasks or die trying. He is up against the Mercenary Guild, private actors, and more.
Kevin Anderson has some very specific skills, skills the government paint to train and hone. Then a subset of that government sold out his team. His background:
“Lt. Kevin Michael Anderson. USMC Codename: Spartan. SEAL Codename: Winterborn. CID Codename: Nemesis. Airborne Rated, Ranger Qualified. Mossad Certified: Urban Warfare Specialist. Marksmanship Medal. Other Medals Classified. Current Status: Classified.”
And as he faces the final target on his list:
“Kevin Anderson looked down the barrels of the shotgun without fear or worry. He had known from the beginning that as long as he made certain the last member of the committee was dead, his life or death wouldn't matter.
And in my dying / I'm more alive/ than I have ever been/ I will make this sacrifice/ For I am Winterborn. The shotgun closed with a snap. Kevin's breath came in ragged gasps. Hell, it hurt to breathe... “If I die, it's gonna be with my teeth in your throat.”
“I don't think you can do that without a skull to fit the teeth into,” Kirk answered conversationally, right before he fired again.”
And he encounters Kyle Elsen the last master assassin, and possibly the last member of the assassin guild. He is exiled and find a new home. A home he will fight for. Kill for. And He will not rest! Amazing characters, excellent story arc, and a break neck pace.
This is another excellent read from the pen of Declan Finn. It is my first encounter of the works of Allan Yoskowitz, and I believe his only other is the companion volume to this Codename: UnSub. For fans of the Saint Tommy I am certain you will appreciate Kevin. Think a Jason Bourne who was raised Catholic and holds his beliefs as central to his being. An excellent read I cannot recommend this book enough!
Note: This book is part of a series of reviews: 2023 Catholic Reading Plan!
August 2, 2017
No Women. No Kids.
I obtained this book through the Kindle Unlimited program.
Disclaimer 1: I ALMOST stopped reading this book very early on, but since Declan Finn is one of my favorite authors, I decided to push on.
Disclaimer 2: I DID stop reading the book at page 122 of 282, because I saw no way my rating was going to improve, and my opinion wasn't going to change.
"No women, no kids." That's the rule one movie assassin gives his bosses. He's willing to take out any other targets, but he draws the line there.
My rules aren't quite that stringent, but then I'm not an assassin, either. I just read and review books. I don't do horror, or slasher/torture stuff, because it creeps me out.
Now, I've read the musings of enough writers to know that part of the creative process is to take the central character, and figure out what horrible things they can do to him. Evidently, that's also something that drives a lot of movies as well; I recently had the occasion to look for an action movie, and synopsis after synopsis started "After his wife/daughter/family is brutally assaulted/murdered, hero comes out of retirement..."
Well, BLEEP that. I don't watch those movies. And I don't read those books. I've got enough bad crap in my life without taking on a load of fictional revenge/catharsis.
So: in this book the hero is madly in love with his co-worker. As a devout Catholic, he refuses to have sex with her until they are married. They go on a mission together, and DO get married, and hurry back to the hotel to make love, and FOUR HOURS INTO THEIR honeymoon/mission, she is murdered and dies in his arms.
Had I been reading this in a paper edition, I would have stabbed it with a bayonet at this point, and possibly ripped the pages out and thrown them in the trash.
Instead, I kept reading because, well, Finn IS one of my favorite authors, and I didn't quite believe he had done that.
The rest of the book, up to the point where I quit (because I could see from the plot that there was no way that some kind of body switch had taken place, and she really was alive after all) consisted of the hero murdering those responsible for the death of his wife. I have no objection whatsoever to that sort of thing; the good guy taking out the bad guys is a nice plot development.
BUT: I don't care if the hero is a high functioning sociopath; it's just not right to kill his wife on their honeymoon. So I'm not going to read the rest of the book; I'm not going to read the rest of the series.
That is, I won't, unless someone lets me know that it's all been done with smoke and mirrors, and she really isn't dead after all, and then I MIGHT read ity, in order to give it a ONE star review for not playing fair with the audience.
I obtained this book through the Kindle Unlimited program.
Disclaimer 1: I ALMOST stopped reading this book very early on, but since Declan Finn is one of my favorite authors, I decided to push on.
Disclaimer 2: I DID stop reading the book at page 122 of 282, because I saw no way my rating was going to improve, and my opinion wasn't going to change.
"No women, no kids." That's the rule one movie assassin gives his bosses. He's willing to take out any other targets, but he draws the line there.
My rules aren't quite that stringent, but then I'm not an assassin, either. I just read and review books. I don't do horror, or slasher/torture stuff, because it creeps me out.
Now, I've read the musings of enough writers to know that part of the creative process is to take the central character, and figure out what horrible things they can do to him. Evidently, that's also something that drives a lot of movies as well; I recently had the occasion to look for an action movie, and synopsis after synopsis started "After his wife/daughter/family is brutally assaulted/murdered, hero comes out of retirement..."
Well, BLEEP that. I don't watch those movies. And I don't read those books. I've got enough bad crap in my life without taking on a load of fictional revenge/catharsis.
So: in this book the hero is madly in love with his co-worker. As a devout Catholic, he refuses to have sex with her until they are married. They go on a mission together, and DO get married, and hurry back to the hotel to make love, and FOUR HOURS INTO THEIR honeymoon/mission, she is murdered and dies in his arms.
Had I been reading this in a paper edition, I would have stabbed it with a bayonet at this point, and possibly ripped the pages out and thrown them in the trash.
Instead, I kept reading because, well, Finn IS one of my favorite authors, and I didn't quite believe he had done that.
The rest of the book, up to the point where I quit (because I could see from the plot that there was no way that some kind of body switch had taken place, and she really was alive after all) consisted of the hero murdering those responsible for the death of his wife. I have no objection whatsoever to that sort of thing; the good guy taking out the bad guys is a nice plot development.
BUT: I don't care if the hero is a high functioning sociopath; it's just not right to kill his wife on their honeymoon. So I'm not going to read the rest of the book; I'm not going to read the rest of the series.
That is, I won't, unless someone lets me know that it's all been done with smoke and mirrors, and she really isn't dead after all, and then I MIGHT read ity, in order to give it a ONE star review for not playing fair with the audience.
July 4, 2017
This was a really fun read. Very unique plot and characters. Fast-paced story. I can't wait to read the follow-up.
November 4, 2019
Excellent spy novel in the mold of Jason Bourne. Set in 2093, although it could be 2025 just as easily. I will warn you that the main character is a Christian and a conservative, so some of his ideas will offend the liberals and the atheists out there. I happen to be a conservative Christian, so I appreciate his viewpoint.
Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews