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Wasteland Blues
Of Mice and Men in a Post-Apocalyptic World
Having only ever known the uncivilized wake of nuclear and biological apocalypse, three friends–and their wheelchair-bound hostage–set out on a perilous fool’s mission: to cross from one side of the devastated United States to the other, in the desperate, half-believed hope of finding a rumored haven.
Spurred by a dark vision and the murder of their parents, rageaholic Derek Cane and his oversized, simple-minded brother Teddy flee the only home they’ve ever known, a struggling shantytown on the edge of the vast wasteland. Heading ever eastward, they are accompanied by their friend John, an orphan brought up by a fanatical religious order, and Leggy, a crippled old drunk who brags that, in his youth, he once traversed the wasteland as a scavenger.
Having only ever known the uncivilized wake of nuclear and biological apocalypse, three friends–and their wheelchair-bound hostage–set out on a perilous fool’s mission: to cross from one side of the devastated United States to the other, in the desperate, half-believed hope of finding a rumored haven.
Spurred by a dark vision and the murder of their parents, rageaholic Derek Cane and his oversized, simple-minded brother Teddy flee the only home they’ve ever known, a struggling shantytown on the edge of the vast wasteland. Heading ever eastward, they are accompanied by their friend John, an orphan brought up by a fanatical religious order, and Leggy, a crippled old drunk who brags that, in his youth, he once traversed the wasteland as a scavenger.
- GenresFictionScience Fiction
220 pages, Paperback
First published March 18, 2014
4 people are currently reading
685 people want to read
About the author
Scott Christian Carr
24 books12 followersScott Christian Carr has been a radio talk show host, editor of a flying saucer magazine, fishmonger, spelunker, psychonaut, journalist, medical/pharmaceutical writer, TV producer, and author. He is a Bram Stoker Award nominee, Scriptapalooza 1st Place Winner for Best Original TV Pilot, and in 1999, he was awarded The Hunter S. Thompson Award for Outstanding Journalism. Scott is a contributing editor and columnist for Shroud Magazine, and a 2010 Choate Road “Spotlight Scribe” - But his most satisfying and rewarding job is that of “Dad.” He lives in a home once owned by George Hansburg (inventor of the pogo stick) on a secluded mountaintop in New York’s Hudson Valley with his two children.
Scott Christian Carr’s latest novel Hiram Grange & the Twelve Little Hitlers is currently available from Shroud Publishing, Amazon.com, and at Barnes & Noble near you. Lloyd Kaufman (President of Troma Entertainment and Creator of the Toxic Avenger) calls it, “More fun than a barrel full of Hitlers... The best novel since Don Quixote!” His upcoming novels Hiram Grange & the Twelve Steps and Matthew's Memories (illustrated by Danny Evarts) are scheduled to be released in 2013.
His other publications include the anthologies Sick: An Anthology of Illness (which features an excerpt from his novel Believer), Death Be Not Proud, Desolate Places, Beneath the Surface, Demonology: Grammaticus Demonium, Scary! Holiday Tales to Make You Scream, and the upcoming Terror at Miskatonic Falls. Scott’s fiction has appeared in dozens of magazines and publications, including Shroud Magazine, The Dream People, GUD, Pulp Eternity, Horror Quarterly, The MUFON Journal, Weird N.J. and Withersin. His novella A Helmet Full of Hair was recently translated and reprinted in the prestigious French quarterly, Galaxies: La Revue de Référence de la Science Fiction.
He writes every day.
Visit me at: www.scottchristiancarr.com
Scott Christian Carr’s latest novel Hiram Grange & the Twelve Little Hitlers is currently available from Shroud Publishing, Amazon.com, and at Barnes & Noble near you. Lloyd Kaufman (President of Troma Entertainment and Creator of the Toxic Avenger) calls it, “More fun than a barrel full of Hitlers... The best novel since Don Quixote!” His upcoming novels Hiram Grange & the Twelve Steps and Matthew's Memories (illustrated by Danny Evarts) are scheduled to be released in 2013.
His other publications include the anthologies Sick: An Anthology of Illness (which features an excerpt from his novel Believer), Death Be Not Proud, Desolate Places, Beneath the Surface, Demonology: Grammaticus Demonium, Scary! Holiday Tales to Make You Scream, and the upcoming Terror at Miskatonic Falls. Scott’s fiction has appeared in dozens of magazines and publications, including Shroud Magazine, The Dream People, GUD, Pulp Eternity, Horror Quarterly, The MUFON Journal, Weird N.J. and Withersin. His novella A Helmet Full of Hair was recently translated and reprinted in the prestigious French quarterly, Galaxies: La Revue de Référence de la Science Fiction.
He writes every day.
Visit me at: www.scottchristiancarr.com
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
January 9, 2014
The only thing I didn't enjoy about "Wasteland Blues" is that it ended, just as my interest continued to grow and grow. 'Leave them wanting more' I guess is the phrase that Carr & Conry-Murray are putting into practice here. And honestly this sort of surprised me from where I came from starting this novel.
Reading the opening chapters my response was rather luke-warm, the post-apocalyptic situation seemed so very familiar, and the plot seemed pointed squarely onto a simple quest with cut-out characters, which ranged from crass to dim to impotent. I knew 'apocalyptic' was a genre of story I adore, and even something run-of-the-mill could provide some entertainment, but I was eagerly looking for something more, something that set this apart.
Joyously, the book grew on me quickly, the characters turning deeper than I expected, the plot turning inward and becoming more about the journey and its diversions than that bright far-off quest goal, and intriguing elements introduced that aren't simple post-apocalyptic tropes. This turnaround in my response is a testament to how well this novel is plotted. With Carr's background in TV, this strength is understandable in hindsight. The novel unfolds as if it is on the screen, drawing the reader into this world bit by bit, making us start out curious, hating the characters one moment, only to find some part of them that draws our sympathy instead the next. Each character is clearly a 'type', yet the majority of them are rounded enough to show struggles and depth, hints of what made them act the way they are, and that perhaps there is more to them beneath the exteriors they parade. As the core cast of characters continue their journey new faces are introduced, each more fascinating than the next, adding further dynamics and threads to the tale.
In terms of style the writing reminded me most of Stephen King, with its moments of humor, absurdity, rage, and general off-kilter characters. Despite being written by two men, the novel maintains a unified voice, and I can see how (as the introduction posits) the two authors complement one another to reach a fine balance in tone. At first, despite the post-apocalyptic setting, the story appeared to have more elements of fantasy to it than science fiction. This feeling in style occurs easily in the genre what with humanity often being pushed back in terms of civilization and technology due to the 'Collapse', 'Devastation', 'War', etc.
But again, it is as if the authors were delighting in throwing the reader off-balance, for elements of science fiction and technology entered into the story in the latter portion of the novel, in unique and intriguing ways, leaving one to wonder what additional surprises may be in store with any future visits to this universe. These portions of the story may come from the influence of Conry-Murray, but regardless of the source, they make for a well-appreciated infusion of science and technology into a wilderness tale.
Which brings me to the downside to this novel, the end. As the pages remaining grew few, I realized that there was no way the plot would be able to wrap up in the sense that their quest, their journey could not possible conclude. Why end the novel now, after one diversionary episode in this grand adventure? Why now, rather than the previous one...or the next? Simply enthralled with the ways the story was going I didn't want the ride to end, and forgot for a moment that there is more to "Wasteland Blues" then the simple quest plot and its initial set up of simple characters. The diverse characters, each very separate individuals, after their own personal goals, were now at this point an actual family of sorts, an actual traveling group with goals more in common than they may have originally suspected. The most twisted and volatile character has had moments of genuine reflection and calm. They have grown into something, and in a sense, it makes perfect sense for this segment of their overall journey to end at this point where they have reached something substantial, maybe not in plot, but in their own personal characters.
"Wasteland" isn't fine literature, it isn't some staggeringly insightful commentary couched within a post-apocalyptic symbol. But it is a solid and engaging journey of reading in the genre, with a bit of depth, some interesting innovations, good laughs, and a ton of heart.
Note: I received an advanced reading copy of this from the publisher and thank them for the opportunity to read this. I can't imagine I will end up liking everything they publish (and I won't be shy about saying I didn't care for something!) but the few I've had a chance to read so far were all enjoyed.
Reading the opening chapters my response was rather luke-warm, the post-apocalyptic situation seemed so very familiar, and the plot seemed pointed squarely onto a simple quest with cut-out characters, which ranged from crass to dim to impotent. I knew 'apocalyptic' was a genre of story I adore, and even something run-of-the-mill could provide some entertainment, but I was eagerly looking for something more, something that set this apart.
Joyously, the book grew on me quickly, the characters turning deeper than I expected, the plot turning inward and becoming more about the journey and its diversions than that bright far-off quest goal, and intriguing elements introduced that aren't simple post-apocalyptic tropes. This turnaround in my response is a testament to how well this novel is plotted. With Carr's background in TV, this strength is understandable in hindsight. The novel unfolds as if it is on the screen, drawing the reader into this world bit by bit, making us start out curious, hating the characters one moment, only to find some part of them that draws our sympathy instead the next. Each character is clearly a 'type', yet the majority of them are rounded enough to show struggles and depth, hints of what made them act the way they are, and that perhaps there is more to them beneath the exteriors they parade. As the core cast of characters continue their journey new faces are introduced, each more fascinating than the next, adding further dynamics and threads to the tale.
In terms of style the writing reminded me most of Stephen King, with its moments of humor, absurdity, rage, and general off-kilter characters. Despite being written by two men, the novel maintains a unified voice, and I can see how (as the introduction posits) the two authors complement one another to reach a fine balance in tone. At first, despite the post-apocalyptic setting, the story appeared to have more elements of fantasy to it than science fiction. This feeling in style occurs easily in the genre what with humanity often being pushed back in terms of civilization and technology due to the 'Collapse', 'Devastation', 'War', etc.
But again, it is as if the authors were delighting in throwing the reader off-balance, for elements of science fiction and technology entered into the story in the latter portion of the novel, in unique and intriguing ways, leaving one to wonder what additional surprises may be in store with any future visits to this universe. These portions of the story may come from the influence of Conry-Murray, but regardless of the source, they make for a well-appreciated infusion of science and technology into a wilderness tale.
Which brings me to the downside to this novel, the end. As the pages remaining grew few, I realized that there was no way the plot would be able to wrap up in the sense that their quest, their journey could not possible conclude. Why end the novel now, after one diversionary episode in this grand adventure? Why now, rather than the previous one...or the next? Simply enthralled with the ways the story was going I didn't want the ride to end, and forgot for a moment that there is more to "Wasteland Blues" then the simple quest plot and its initial set up of simple characters. The diverse characters, each very separate individuals, after their own personal goals, were now at this point an actual family of sorts, an actual traveling group with goals more in common than they may have originally suspected. The most twisted and volatile character has had moments of genuine reflection and calm. They have grown into something, and in a sense, it makes perfect sense for this segment of their overall journey to end at this point where they have reached something substantial, maybe not in plot, but in their own personal characters.
"Wasteland" isn't fine literature, it isn't some staggeringly insightful commentary couched within a post-apocalyptic symbol. But it is a solid and engaging journey of reading in the genre, with a bit of depth, some interesting innovations, good laughs, and a ton of heart.
Note: I received an advanced reading copy of this from the publisher and thank them for the opportunity to read this. I can't imagine I will end up liking everything they publish (and I won't be shy about saying I didn't care for something!) but the few I've had a chance to read so far were all enjoyed.
March 20, 2014
In Wasteland Blues, Scott Christian Carr and Andrew Conry-Murray create a fascinating study of character in a new type of dystopian society. They combine familiar geography with things like nuclear war, technology, and religion to develop a world that readers are both familiar with and fascinated by.
The ensemble of characters that Carr and Conry-Murray develop over the length of the novel gives every reader a person with which to identify. Their contrasting personalities give the story a depth that draws the reader into the story and doesn’t let them leave until after it ends. Though setting and character play such a large role, the plot remains essential and drives the reader to turn page after page. For this reason, the reader is then sad to see it end and can only hope to discover what these characters are up to in the future.
The ensemble of characters that Carr and Conry-Murray develop over the length of the novel gives every reader a person with which to identify. Their contrasting personalities give the story a depth that draws the reader into the story and doesn’t let them leave until after it ends. Though setting and character play such a large role, the plot remains essential and drives the reader to turn page after page. For this reason, the reader is then sad to see it end and can only hope to discover what these characters are up to in the future.
April 2, 2014
Out of the frying pan into the radioactive fire pretty much sums up this adventure as four neighbors hotfoot their way through a post-apocalyptic landscape. You cannot imagine the scrapes that Derek, Teddy, John and Leggy get themselves into on their crazy journey across the US. The only thing weirder is that they're even trying. This is a fun tale with a quick pace packed with action and adventure. Enter at your own risk!
Note: I was involved in producing this book.
Note: I was involved in producing this book.
January 2, 2015
4.5 stars
Oh this book. I'm really glad I read it, in spite of no hype around it and an almost seemingly boring plot.(I mean a long journey through a desert doesn't really scream exciting.) It definitely surpassed my expectations.
It has most things I love in books: interesting characters (everyone in this book is legit crazy which just makes it more perfect,) exciting surprising things that happen on their journey without being ridiculous, and a slightly confusing world that you get absorbed in.
First off the characters are great. As some one in the book observes the four main characters can be described as the cripple, the fanatic, the retard, and the maniac. They all live up to their descriptions and continue to grow throughout the story. Everyone in this world has their own psyche scars because of how they have to survive despite awful conditions, and decisions they make. They're all crazy, every single one of them and it's great.
Once you get all these great characters together they go on a journey doomed to fail. A trip across a treacherous desert known as the 'wasteland' that's filled with "Bugs, loners, muties. And lord knows what else." No one usually comes back from it. But the maniac, also known as Derek takes the towns crippled old drunk with them to lead the way, because he's claimed to have traveled it successfully before. Derek plans on making it to New York City, the place he keeps dreaming about. As their journey starts off pretty rocky and more unfortunate (but awesome, including a huge fire scene and I don't know about you but I love huge fire scenes.) events take place that seems more unlikely to happen.
This world is very bleak and you can picture everything so clearly, from the dust caked on your face to the debris from the Before Times you have to maneuver over. You find things out about this world and what happened to it slowly, throughout the book. It's entertaining enough though where you don't really mind at first not knowing why there are giant 'bugs' that they need to watch out for, you just know you don't want to end up like Leggy.
In short I loved this book, and the only reason it's missing half a star is because I felt it ended too soon. I wanted more awesome things to happen.
Oh this book. I'm really glad I read it, in spite of no hype around it and an almost seemingly boring plot.(I mean a long journey through a desert doesn't really scream exciting.) It definitely surpassed my expectations.
It has most things I love in books: interesting characters (everyone in this book is legit crazy which just makes it more perfect,) exciting surprising things that happen on their journey without being ridiculous, and a slightly confusing world that you get absorbed in.
First off the characters are great. As some one in the book observes the four main characters can be described as the cripple, the fanatic, the retard, and the maniac. They all live up to their descriptions and continue to grow throughout the story. Everyone in this world has their own psyche scars because of how they have to survive despite awful conditions, and decisions they make. They're all crazy, every single one of them and it's great.
Once you get all these great characters together they go on a journey doomed to fail. A trip across a treacherous desert known as the 'wasteland' that's filled with "Bugs, loners, muties. And lord knows what else." No one usually comes back from it. But the maniac, also known as Derek takes the towns crippled old drunk with them to lead the way, because he's claimed to have traveled it successfully before. Derek plans on making it to New York City, the place he keeps dreaming about. As their journey starts off pretty rocky and more unfortunate (but awesome, including a huge fire scene and I don't know about you but I love huge fire scenes.) events take place that seems more unlikely to happen.
This world is very bleak and you can picture everything so clearly, from the dust caked on your face to the debris from the Before Times you have to maneuver over. You find things out about this world and what happened to it slowly, throughout the book. It's entertaining enough though where you don't really mind at first not knowing why there are giant 'bugs' that they need to watch out for, you just know you don't want to end up like Leggy.
In short I loved this book, and the only reason it's missing half a star is because I felt it ended too soon. I wanted more awesome things to happen.
September 21, 2015
In my parlance, the stars is a *good* book.
If you like gritty dystopian sci-fi, this is the book for you. Hell-on-earth abounds and nobody gets a free or easy ride. The writing is good and the sci-fi elements are a nice touch. Overall it's more of a journey for the main character. I won't say a journey to redemption, but a journey to something a little bit more than he was. That's all I can say or I will spoil the book. If you are squeamish or don't like books with a down take on humanity, then this one isn't for you. If you like it gritty, this bad boy has grit to spare.
If you like gritty dystopian sci-fi, this is the book for you. Hell-on-earth abounds and nobody gets a free or easy ride. The writing is good and the sci-fi elements are a nice touch. Overall it's more of a journey for the main character. I won't say a journey to redemption, but a journey to something a little bit more than he was. That's all I can say or I will spoil the book. If you are squeamish or don't like books with a down take on humanity, then this one isn't for you. If you like it gritty, this bad boy has grit to spare.
August 24, 2015
Solid book, imaginative description of a post-apocalyptic wasteland in the southwestern US. Sometimes the collaborative nature of this writing shows, but not enough to distract from the reading experience. The characters tend to be metaphorical and somewhat unpleasant; while that might be appropriate for a post-apocalyptic setting, it does make the book somewhat unsatisfactory. It ends without the characters achieving their quest. That could mean there is a Part II in the works to finish the story, but it almost seems to me that the book simply ran out of steam- hence the four stars.
May 16, 2015
This was an interesting take on a post nuclear-war America. Mutants, scavenging, giant man-eating bugs, crazy people in spades. It was a little dark, which is entirely appropriate, and even expected, for a post-apo novel. The jumpy pov seemed a little amateur-author's short story style, but it worked for the most part. I hated Derek, but enjoyed the other characters.
June 13, 2021
If this book crosses your path, don't bother. It has a couple of interesting tidbits of "life after the fall" but mostly, I want that time I spent reading it back.
July 26, 2016
Review to come.
March 22, 2016
Really good road trip dystopian future novel. There is a nice mix of sci fi mystery in here as well. Only problem is it ends without a sequel currently.
August 11, 2016
Review to come.
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews