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California Dreamin' #3
Mammoth
California is a state shaped by its explosive past. In recent years, the state's been flooded and then ripped apart by tremors. Now, the earth's crust is heaving like the chest of a gasping beast. The ground has grown restless around Mammoth Mountain as the world waits. Will the fire-breathing beast relieve the pressure?
- GenresThriller
494 pages, Hardcover
First published August 31, 2023
782 people are currently reading
73 people want to read
About the author
Bobby Akart
99 books405 followersInternational bestselling author, Bobby Akart, one of America's favorite storytellers, delivers up-all-night thrillers to readers in 245 countries and territories worldwide. He's achieved Amazon Top 5 Author status in both fiction and non-fiction genres, Amazon Kindle All Star and Top 50 Amazon Author (#35) and Top 25 Best Selling Book on Amazon Charts (Yellowstone #25).
"He's right up there with James Patterson, David Baldacci, Brad Thor and others that write thrillers. To me he actually surpasses them.”
He has written more than 80 novels in the disaster, survival, medical and political thriller genres.
"He's right up there with James Patterson, David Baldacci, Brad Thor and others that write thrillers. To me he actually surpasses them.”
He has written more than 80 novels in the disaster, survival, medical and political thriller genres.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
March 24, 2024
Disappointed
So I was looking forward to an exciting story with suspense and thrills but instead I found this one very disappointing. For one it seemed to take an extra long time for any disaster type action to actually happen in here. And then finally when something did happen it was described in a bad way. There was no scary suspense that lead up to the event itself. It was more like "ok, its erupting now" and well that does not make a story fun or entertaining. I want to get a little bit scared when I read these and this one utterly fails at that. In fact this one was so bad at it I actually found myself yawning at the 88% mark! Can you believe that? Its atrocious!
I also found A few scenes confusing. I never had that with this author before but that is where I found myself on page 193. The main characters of Mac and Taylor were checking out the lake. And then the ground shook in an earthquake and this was near Mammoth. They could see through the binoculars and the shaking knocked them down. This is where it got confusing. It states they had traveled 100 feet. Something about the mountain collapsing. And their items were lost in this collapse. But the story never mentioned them actually sliding down anywhere. So its all super fuzzy what had actually happened in this scene. Also where is the lake in relation to Mammoth Mountain? To people who are not familiar with the area they have no idea. I presume the lake is somewhere at the bottom of the mountain? Because they were looking at the side of the mountain through the binoculars. But then the paragraph seemed to suggest the slope had fell apart right behind them??? So I have no idea at all.
The story also sent a very mixed message. On one hand its saying there is going to be a big bad eruption but on the other hand the characters are actually saying the opposite by their actions. Instead of being concerned about things they spend time in the local bar drinking alcohol and playing pool! How are we supposed to take the danger in here seriously when they act that way? Mac has gone down hill as a geophysicist as he showed way more concern in book #2 than in here.
Also the couple from Arkstorm is in here too: Sammy and Tyler. I thought their decision to go skiing on Mammoth near the end was totally ridiculous. I mean they were actually helping Mac and Taylor with the research. So since they knew from the volcanologist that it may erupt why would they even go there? It makes no sense whatsoever.
The whole thing seems to be thrown together very badly.
The book had absolutely no suspense at all. And even though I am badly scared of volcanoes I had zero anxiety or feelings of dread while reading this. And that is due to how it is written and put together. I never felt any worry or concern for the characters at all. Plus the story is over at the 93% mark. Then the two main characters go off all happy and they have absolutely zero concerns about anything that had happened.
A few scenes in here were so crazy they are not even believable. Those scenes involve Sammy and Tyler.
I will not even mention how easy it could be for readers to get confused about Taylor and Tyler who are two different women in this book! I am glad I actually write the characters names down on a piece of paper (for my challenges) because otherwise I would be very confused as to who is who. There are tons of female names. Why use two names that are so similar??
But this thriller is not thrilling at all. Its a big flop. It starts super slow, no suspense in how its written and then the eruption when it comes was very disappointing.
Oh... One more thing. About the end of book #2. You don't find out the actual consequences of that until you start reading this one! But that should have been at the end of the second book. And it wasn't. That is just sloppy I think. The author doesn't make things very clear... And you don't realize that until later.
But instead of keeping me awake this was putting me to sleep.
I would skip this. The eruption story about Rainier was way better...
So I was looking forward to an exciting story with suspense and thrills but instead I found this one very disappointing. For one it seemed to take an extra long time for any disaster type action to actually happen in here. And then finally when something did happen it was described in a bad way. There was no scary suspense that lead up to the event itself. It was more like "ok, its erupting now" and well that does not make a story fun or entertaining. I want to get a little bit scared when I read these and this one utterly fails at that. In fact this one was so bad at it I actually found myself yawning at the 88% mark! Can you believe that? Its atrocious!
I also found A few scenes confusing. I never had that with this author before but that is where I found myself on page 193. The main characters of Mac and Taylor were checking out the lake. And then the ground shook in an earthquake and this was near Mammoth. They could see through the binoculars and the shaking knocked them down. This is where it got confusing. It states they had traveled 100 feet. Something about the mountain collapsing. And their items were lost in this collapse. But the story never mentioned them actually sliding down anywhere. So its all super fuzzy what had actually happened in this scene. Also where is the lake in relation to Mammoth Mountain? To people who are not familiar with the area they have no idea. I presume the lake is somewhere at the bottom of the mountain? Because they were looking at the side of the mountain through the binoculars. But then the paragraph seemed to suggest the slope had fell apart right behind them??? So I have no idea at all.
The story also sent a very mixed message. On one hand its saying there is going to be a big bad eruption but on the other hand the characters are actually saying the opposite by their actions. Instead of being concerned about things they spend time in the local bar drinking alcohol and playing pool! How are we supposed to take the danger in here seriously when they act that way? Mac has gone down hill as a geophysicist as he showed way more concern in book #2 than in here.
Also the couple from Arkstorm is in here too: Sammy and Tyler. I thought their decision to go skiing on Mammoth near the end was totally ridiculous. I mean they were actually helping Mac and Taylor with the research. So since they knew from the volcanologist that it may erupt why would they even go there? It makes no sense whatsoever.
The whole thing seems to be thrown together very badly.
The book had absolutely no suspense at all. And even though I am badly scared of volcanoes I had zero anxiety or feelings of dread while reading this. And that is due to how it is written and put together. I never felt any worry or concern for the characters at all. Plus the story is over at the 93% mark. Then the two main characters go off all happy and they have absolutely zero concerns about anything that had happened.
A few scenes in here were so crazy they are not even believable. Those scenes involve Sammy and Tyler.
I will not even mention how easy it could be for readers to get confused about Taylor and Tyler who are two different women in this book! I am glad I actually write the characters names down on a piece of paper (for my challenges) because otherwise I would be very confused as to who is who. There are tons of female names. Why use two names that are so similar??
But this thriller is not thrilling at all. Its a big flop. It starts super slow, no suspense in how its written and then the eruption when it comes was very disappointing.
Oh... One more thing. About the end of book #2. You don't find out the actual consequences of that until you start reading this one! But that should have been at the end of the second book. And it wasn't. That is just sloppy I think. The author doesn't make things very clear... And you don't realize that until later.
But instead of keeping me awake this was putting me to sleep.
I would skip this. The eruption story about Rainier was way better...
December 7, 2023
This would seem to be a continuation of the Arkstorm story, at least Mac and Taylor were back. This had a lot of geological/volcanic science, though I am not qualified to know if most was correct. I was actually disappointed in this book. First was the completely unnecessary rant that scientists were vilified for their negative stance on the COVID vaccine and "Then it turns out the so-called conspiracy theorists were correct in many respects.” WHAT??? This is such an incorrect slant and so very unnecessary to the story and happened in two different parts of the story (Taylor made the stupid comment that during COVID they were forced to not question the science). I almost stopped at that point. I also had an issue that Mac and Taylor, and only those two, went to Washington to represent the USGS. That would just not happen. They might have been chosen as experts who were on site, but they would have been accompanied by officials higher in their organizations food chain who were more experienced at navigating the political aspects of the disaster. The whole "cutsy" exchange between the President, Mac and Taylor as to who they voted for; this was so very inappropriate and the President's interest could be viewed as intimidating. Mac and Taylor continually go alone into dangerous areas to investigate the Mammoth area AND they drag two civilians along. I had rather liked Tyler and Sammy, but now have to question their judgment in general and taste in vacation destinations in particular. In the case of the activity going on at Mammoth, USGS and other organizations would have had more people than the two rogue scientists. To top it off, after all of the danger, death etc, the main group just goes to Vegas so Mac and Taylor can get married. It felt like the air just went out of the balloon.
September 2, 2023
Fun Series
Bobby Akart's books are filled with facts, figures, explanations and a family full of overachievers. His writing style for this series was so different. The research and his way of presenting it to us has always been enjoyable to learn. This series is no exception. What was different is the other half. Romance. He also incorporated a RomCom into the mix. Humor. That was different. I enjoyed the analogy of comparing shaken up champagne to a volcanic eruption. Which, if you think about it, it is true.
I believe Finn was my favorite character. A character he was.
I definitely recommend this series.
Bobby Akart's books are filled with facts, figures, explanations and a family full of overachievers. His writing style for this series was so different. The research and his way of presenting it to us has always been enjoyable to learn. This series is no exception. What was different is the other half. Romance. He also incorporated a RomCom into the mix. Humor. That was different. I enjoyed the analogy of comparing shaken up champagne to a volcanic eruption. Which, if you think about it, it is true.
I believe Finn was my favorite character. A character he was.
I definitely recommend this series.
September 1, 2023
Super Fantastic Author!
All of Mr Akart's books are superb! His characters are well-developed, likeable, and all around interesting. You will never be disappointed by one of his books. I believe I have read all of them, and I could hardly put any of then down until I was finished reading them. Go ahead, read them all and try to prove me wrong. He's such a great writer, you won't be able to do it! Thanks Mr Akart, for writing books for us!
All of Mr Akart's books are superb! His characters are well-developed, likeable, and all around interesting. You will never be disappointed by one of his books. I believe I have read all of them, and I could hardly put any of then down until I was finished reading them. Go ahead, read them all and try to prove me wrong. He's such a great writer, you won't be able to do it! Thanks Mr Akart, for writing books for us!
October 7, 2023
Ruined a good read!
Professional scientists suddenly in the Middle of the story state their fellow scientists are unbelievably all wrong, voice anti vaccine propaganda then become renowned scientists believing in science.
Professional scientists suddenly in the Middle of the story state their fellow scientists are unbelievably all wrong, voice anti vaccine propaganda then become renowned scientists believing in science.
March 31, 2024
Do You Want to Die Hot or Cold
Mammoth: A Disaster Thriller (California Dreamin' Book 3) had me screaming in terror, laughing hysterically and thanking my Higher Power that Bobby Akart chose to write a trilogy about the state of California, especially the about the places I frequented in my youth.
If you are a die hard Akart reader, like me, then you will have read ARkStorm, the first book in the series and then just gobbled down Fractured, the book previous to Mammoth. California is not having a good decade.
Imagine yourself, and your best guy or girl, well into your twenties and following your career as it takes you high into the Sierra Nevada Mountains to a popular ski resort called Mammoth Mountains. Blue sky and ski trails for miles, a happy smile and a pair of Ray Bans on every face.
Mac Atwood, you will remember, is with the USGS, the United States Geological Survey, the folks who monitor the seismograph system and other equipment that try to help predict earthquakes and, as well, the part they play in predicting Volcano eruptions.
Taylor Reed, Mac's fiancé, is his counterpart with CALVol, the California Volcano Observatory agency. As Mac is known as the 'rock whisperer' for his keen intuition, so Taylor is known for her in-depth knowledge and propensity for going to look a crater face-to-face. They are perfectly matched.
Mac and Taylor are working out of their new digs in a converted school auditorium near Mammoth, in the aftermath of the events of Fractured. Mac is thrilled with his new equipment and Taylor is happy because she will get a closer look at her biggest concern. That the magma chamber under the nearby Long Valley Supervolcano has merged with the Inyo-Mono or the Mammoth chambers.
The answers to those questions are quite explosive and will have you screaming, beseeching your God and trying to get your breath back. Just when you think those happy skiers are safe, Wham! Another reason to run, no, hide! No, duck!
Mammoth is one of Bobby Akart's best. The ending is worth all of the adrenaline you'll expend reading the rest. And don't miss his author's notes. A more than a five star read. Highly recommended.
Mammoth: A Disaster Thriller (California Dreamin' Book 3) had me screaming in terror, laughing hysterically and thanking my Higher Power that Bobby Akart chose to write a trilogy about the state of California, especially the about the places I frequented in my youth.
If you are a die hard Akart reader, like me, then you will have read ARkStorm, the first book in the series and then just gobbled down Fractured, the book previous to Mammoth. California is not having a good decade.
Imagine yourself, and your best guy or girl, well into your twenties and following your career as it takes you high into the Sierra Nevada Mountains to a popular ski resort called Mammoth Mountains. Blue sky and ski trails for miles, a happy smile and a pair of Ray Bans on every face.
Mac Atwood, you will remember, is with the USGS, the United States Geological Survey, the folks who monitor the seismograph system and other equipment that try to help predict earthquakes and, as well, the part they play in predicting Volcano eruptions.
Taylor Reed, Mac's fiancé, is his counterpart with CALVol, the California Volcano Observatory agency. As Mac is known as the 'rock whisperer' for his keen intuition, so Taylor is known for her in-depth knowledge and propensity for going to look a crater face-to-face. They are perfectly matched.
Mac and Taylor are working out of their new digs in a converted school auditorium near Mammoth, in the aftermath of the events of Fractured. Mac is thrilled with his new equipment and Taylor is happy because she will get a closer look at her biggest concern. That the magma chamber under the nearby Long Valley Supervolcano has merged with the Inyo-Mono or the Mammoth chambers.
The answers to those questions are quite explosive and will have you screaming, beseeching your God and trying to get your breath back. Just when you think those happy skiers are safe, Wham! Another reason to run, no, hide! No, duck!
Mammoth is one of Bobby Akart's best. The ending is worth all of the adrenaline you'll expend reading the rest. And don't miss his author's notes. A more than a five star read. Highly recommended.
September 3, 2023
Mammoth
As usual Bobby has kept me up late reading. Also, as usual, he has produced a tale that resonates with post apocalyptic readers. If this story is as accurate as others he has told, we can expect to hear about activity in the California volcanoes in the next few months.
As usual Bobby has kept me up late reading. Also, as usual, he has produced a tale that resonates with post apocalyptic readers. If this story is as accurate as others he has told, we can expect to hear about activity in the California volcanoes in the next few months.
March 24, 2025
Great read! Loving this series but need to go back and listen to the first one. Each one does stand alone though there are reoccurring characters.
I don’t think I’ll ever even visit California after these books!
Narration by Andrew was amazing as always!
I don’t think I’ll ever even visit California after these books!
Narration by Andrew was amazing as always!
September 2, 2023
Earth Science
My how dearth science has evolved in just my life tlme. Reading about one Fay it could come about and doing it with beloved characters from other stories was a bonus!
My how dearth science has evolved in just my life tlme. Reading about one Fay it could come about and doing it with beloved characters from other stories was a bonus!
September 5, 2023
Bobby Akart continues to surpass writings limitations!!
Writers try to install a theme into a readers mind. Bobby Akart paints a beautiful and vivid picture after picture after picture in his words. He is the Rembrandt of his genre! A must read collection!
Writers try to install a theme into a readers mind. Bobby Akart paints a beautiful and vivid picture after picture after picture in his words. He is the Rembrandt of his genre! A must read collection!
August 30, 2023
I loved this book by Bobby Akart. I also loved the characters. I can’t wait for the next book by this author. I would recommend this book and all of Bobby’s books. I listened to this book on audiobook.
September 4, 2023
California Dreaming
It's been a tough time for California! It all began with a little rain. Actually, a lot of rain. Massive rivers of hot moist air were traveling for thousands of miles before grounding in south central California where it precipitated in some of the heaviest rain ever seen. One after another, the atmospheric rivers were deluging onto parched, thirsty land. Much more than the land could absorb, the rains became floods, filling reservoirs, topping dams, bringing huge mudslides in burnt out hillsides. Days became weeks, a huge lake formed in the central valley, drowning everything from Sacramento to Los Angeles. The mountains were covered with the thickest snowpack ever recorded. The weight of water and snow strained the fractured state, until massive earthquakes opened the ground and Lake California drained . . . somewhere.
Dr. Macarthur Atwood, one of the leading scientists of the United States Geological Survey, the USGS, met the love of his life - Taylor Reed, a Volcanologist also working for the USGS - when they were nearly sucked into a huge sinkhole that had formed below the new Lake California formed from the floods unleashed by the ARkStorms and melting snowpacks. During that harrowing submersible trip, Mac had impulsively asked Taylor to marry him and she accepted! They still had to live through massive earthquakes as the major fault lines beneath California combined into the Big One! The water poured into these huge cracks in the earth, lubricating the faults and creating unprecedented shifts in the state's geology. The massive lake, containing more water than filled the Mississippi River from top to bottom 22 times over, drained into the earth and disappeared.
Along the way, Mac and Taylor had met and formed unshakable bonds with Finnegan Fergus O'Brien (Finn) and his dog Rebel and Tyler & Sammy Hendrick and their canine children Carly & Fenway. Their disaster-formed friendship had endured even after Sammy and Tyler moved across the country, sweating never to live in California ever again! Finn got a job as Fire Chief in Mammoth, California, which was fortunate as Mac and Taylor were studying the volcanoes surrounding the Long Valley Caldera, the largest volcanic system in California, the ancient super volcano rivaling Yellowstone in size. The USGS had assigned Taylor to study the system and the surrounding Sierra Nevada mountain range. The monitoring cabin was located on the shoulders of Bald Mountain in Mono County, Calif. From here, Mac and Taylor studied the volcanic system. Finn lived nearby in Mammoth, a small resort town filled with skiers and adventurers, braving the slopes of Mammoth Mountain, another ancient volcano. The Hendricks came to visit, considering buying some property nearby, close to their friends, with all the skiing and hiking their hearts' desires! Then the ground began to rumble!
This magnificent trilogy of terror and adventure began with ARkStorm, before California got its taste of the Atmospheric Rivers bringing unprecedented rainfall to the state and huge piles of snow dozens of feet thick to the mountains. Fiction becomes fact, and the author's record of prediction and prognostication remains unchallenged. The lead characters are amazing, the storyline is thrilling, compelling and believable as fiction is proven fact. The storyteller, with reams of research, has produced another amazing read!
It's been a tough time for California! It all began with a little rain. Actually, a lot of rain. Massive rivers of hot moist air were traveling for thousands of miles before grounding in south central California where it precipitated in some of the heaviest rain ever seen. One after another, the atmospheric rivers were deluging onto parched, thirsty land. Much more than the land could absorb, the rains became floods, filling reservoirs, topping dams, bringing huge mudslides in burnt out hillsides. Days became weeks, a huge lake formed in the central valley, drowning everything from Sacramento to Los Angeles. The mountains were covered with the thickest snowpack ever recorded. The weight of water and snow strained the fractured state, until massive earthquakes opened the ground and Lake California drained . . . somewhere.
Dr. Macarthur Atwood, one of the leading scientists of the United States Geological Survey, the USGS, met the love of his life - Taylor Reed, a Volcanologist also working for the USGS - when they were nearly sucked into a huge sinkhole that had formed below the new Lake California formed from the floods unleashed by the ARkStorms and melting snowpacks. During that harrowing submersible trip, Mac had impulsively asked Taylor to marry him and she accepted! They still had to live through massive earthquakes as the major fault lines beneath California combined into the Big One! The water poured into these huge cracks in the earth, lubricating the faults and creating unprecedented shifts in the state's geology. The massive lake, containing more water than filled the Mississippi River from top to bottom 22 times over, drained into the earth and disappeared.
Along the way, Mac and Taylor had met and formed unshakable bonds with Finnegan Fergus O'Brien (Finn) and his dog Rebel and Tyler & Sammy Hendrick and their canine children Carly & Fenway. Their disaster-formed friendship had endured even after Sammy and Tyler moved across the country, sweating never to live in California ever again! Finn got a job as Fire Chief in Mammoth, California, which was fortunate as Mac and Taylor were studying the volcanoes surrounding the Long Valley Caldera, the largest volcanic system in California, the ancient super volcano rivaling Yellowstone in size. The USGS had assigned Taylor to study the system and the surrounding Sierra Nevada mountain range. The monitoring cabin was located on the shoulders of Bald Mountain in Mono County, Calif. From here, Mac and Taylor studied the volcanic system. Finn lived nearby in Mammoth, a small resort town filled with skiers and adventurers, braving the slopes of Mammoth Mountain, another ancient volcano. The Hendricks came to visit, considering buying some property nearby, close to their friends, with all the skiing and hiking their hearts' desires! Then the ground began to rumble!
This magnificent trilogy of terror and adventure began with ARkStorm, before California got its taste of the Atmospheric Rivers bringing unprecedented rainfall to the state and huge piles of snow dozens of feet thick to the mountains. Fiction becomes fact, and the author's record of prediction and prognostication remains unchallenged. The lead characters are amazing, the storyline is thrilling, compelling and believable as fiction is proven fact. The storyteller, with reams of research, has produced another amazing read!
September 1, 2023
Mammoth
A Disaster Thriller Novel
Bobby Akart
Before I saw the cover of author Bobby Akart’s new disaster thriller I thought about the name Mammoth, ummm, a large hairy extinct elephantid genus Mammuthus…. I was wrong. His latest book takes place on Mammoth Mountain, California, the best resort for skiing and snowboarding through out the winter and mountain biking during the summer. I looked up Mammoth Mountain so I could get a feel of the setting. A delightful tourist area…until Mr. Akart got a hold of it. His last few books have all been standalone tales, they had returning characters, the setting was California, and they are part of his California Dreaming series.
Four young adults take to a double black slope for the last hurrah of their vacation. They were good skiers, better than good. One after the other they took on the challenge. Had they made a deadly mistake?
In Mammoth we are reunited with Taylor, Mac, Sam, Tyler, Rebel, and Finn. Taylor and Mac are monitoring volcanic and seismic activity in the area. One evening when they were visiting Brodie’s Roadhouse, they received an emergency message. They rushed out to check on the situation. Finn, …. was sitting at a table with Sam and Tyler when he received an emergency call. He and Rebel rushed to the parking lot. Sam and Tyler hung around Brodie’s and spoke to Jimmy the owner when the “earth began to tremble. Next the lava dome blew off the Panum Crater. The shock wave hit from across the lake shattering the large windows in the restaurant, sending shards of glass throughout the building.”
The reader watches as experts Taylor and Mac place their lives on the line studying the earthquake and volcano. The reader is by Finn and Rebel’s side as they rescue the town’s people. Sam and Tyler find themselves in a deadly predicament.
I am trying very hard not to spoil this book for readers so I will not farther discuss the thrilling events that take place in this tale. The book is well written thrilling and heartwarming. I am always amazed at factual writing. It is obvious the author spends a lot of time researching each book. I learn from his books. He teaches readers scientific facts and allows us to experience them from our armchair. I go away knowing not only scientific fact but a little about how to survive the disaster. He discusses the politics and economics behind each event.
The characters are all well fleshed out. In this book I was particularly fond of Taylor and Mac. They face danger and yet have a way of laughing at it. Their sense of humor shines through to the very last pages. Sam and Tyler have faced death in ARkStorm and Mammoth only to be the odds. I like them. Finn’s characterization has matured in this book. I liked him in ARkStorm but I love him in Mammoth.
I eagerly sit here waiting to see what Mr. Akart has in store for his readers in the future.
A Disaster Thriller Novel
Bobby Akart
Before I saw the cover of author Bobby Akart’s new disaster thriller I thought about the name Mammoth, ummm, a large hairy extinct elephantid genus Mammuthus…. I was wrong. His latest book takes place on Mammoth Mountain, California, the best resort for skiing and snowboarding through out the winter and mountain biking during the summer. I looked up Mammoth Mountain so I could get a feel of the setting. A delightful tourist area…until Mr. Akart got a hold of it. His last few books have all been standalone tales, they had returning characters, the setting was California, and they are part of his California Dreaming series.
Four young adults take to a double black slope for the last hurrah of their vacation. They were good skiers, better than good. One after the other they took on the challenge. Had they made a deadly mistake?
In Mammoth we are reunited with Taylor, Mac, Sam, Tyler, Rebel, and Finn. Taylor and Mac are monitoring volcanic and seismic activity in the area. One evening when they were visiting Brodie’s Roadhouse, they received an emergency message. They rushed out to check on the situation. Finn, …. was sitting at a table with Sam and Tyler when he received an emergency call. He and Rebel rushed to the parking lot. Sam and Tyler hung around Brodie’s and spoke to Jimmy the owner when the “earth began to tremble. Next the lava dome blew off the Panum Crater. The shock wave hit from across the lake shattering the large windows in the restaurant, sending shards of glass throughout the building.”
The reader watches as experts Taylor and Mac place their lives on the line studying the earthquake and volcano. The reader is by Finn and Rebel’s side as they rescue the town’s people. Sam and Tyler find themselves in a deadly predicament.
I am trying very hard not to spoil this book for readers so I will not farther discuss the thrilling events that take place in this tale. The book is well written thrilling and heartwarming. I am always amazed at factual writing. It is obvious the author spends a lot of time researching each book. I learn from his books. He teaches readers scientific facts and allows us to experience them from our armchair. I go away knowing not only scientific fact but a little about how to survive the disaster. He discusses the politics and economics behind each event.
The characters are all well fleshed out. In this book I was particularly fond of Taylor and Mac. They face danger and yet have a way of laughing at it. Their sense of humor shines through to the very last pages. Sam and Tyler have faced death in ARkStorm and Mammoth only to be the odds. I like them. Finn’s characterization has matured in this book. I liked him in ARkStorm but I love him in Mammoth.
I eagerly sit here waiting to see what Mr. Akart has in store for his readers in the future.
October 3, 2023
Well, I have to say I was disappointed. I've read other Akart and really liked them. But this book has several problems for me. First, it doesn't say it's in a series, but by reading about previous events in the story- and then checking the titles and finding corresponding books to these events- I would say it is. It may stand alone, but without the previous book(s) the characters lack any depth. You really know so little about who they are and the relationships between the two main couples are so similar you'd be hard pressed to distinguish them- lots of light hearted banter or work/event discussions- but that's mostly it. I really found emotion missing from the story- between the people, in the descriptions and in relationship to events. In part it was how it was written. For example, and I'm hoping this isn't a spoiler given the title and cover, but when there's an eruption, the story shifts to a narration of the event instead of experiencing it from the point of view of one (or more) of the characters. This really just made it kind of anticlimactic. Then he threw in a short side story about a little girl... but it never tied back in at all. It's still an interesting story and I like the research and realistic information he incorporates. I just thought this wasn't his best book.
September 13, 2023
What to say about this one?
The first books I read by the author had a rant about hippies. After the first one I would just skip ahead. A few of the books had so many brand recommendations that I felt stuck between being curious about his suggestions and feeling like I was in a lengthy commercial. It had been awhile since I had ran across either type of issue.
I always learn things from his novels. I read the electronic versions so that I can easily look up things as I go. This way I can see places and dive into the science. Might even consider buying whiskey?
My suggestion is before reading this book is know yourself. Do you have vivid memories of St. Helen’s or some other eruption? This book and the Yellowstone series might best be avoided. I only go to St. Helens after checking what the scientists are saying. Even then I am ready for an eruption to happen again. Less obvious is if you were a frontline medical worker or emergency responder during the height of the Covid pandemic because there are a few triggers in here. I broke nothing in the reading of this novel but wanted to. The pandemic did not belong in this novel.
If you like Akart and stories about volcanic eruptions, I would stick to his Yellowstone series.
The first books I read by the author had a rant about hippies. After the first one I would just skip ahead. A few of the books had so many brand recommendations that I felt stuck between being curious about his suggestions and feeling like I was in a lengthy commercial. It had been awhile since I had ran across either type of issue.
I always learn things from his novels. I read the electronic versions so that I can easily look up things as I go. This way I can see places and dive into the science. Might even consider buying whiskey?
My suggestion is before reading this book is know yourself. Do you have vivid memories of St. Helen’s or some other eruption? This book and the Yellowstone series might best be avoided. I only go to St. Helens after checking what the scientists are saying. Even then I am ready for an eruption to happen again. Less obvious is if you were a frontline medical worker or emergency responder during the height of the Covid pandemic because there are a few triggers in here. I broke nothing in the reading of this novel but wanted to. The pandemic did not belong in this novel.
If you like Akart and stories about volcanic eruptions, I would stick to his Yellowstone series.
November 19, 2025
I have read other books from this author and had high hopes. Sadly this disappointed me. This book was supposed to be a stand alone book but it turns out that it's not. Perhaps the character development happened in the previous books? The writers personal stance on the Covid vaccine is on full display and besides being offensive, how the heck is it relevant in a book about a volcanic eruption? Stay in your lane! As a reader we are supposed to believe the two main characters in the story are the elite scientists involved with the eruption with no background on them other than stating they were the ones working in their weirdly located no man's land office? A volcano blows up and a bar 6 miles away whose windows were shattered operates likes it's another Monday. I gave up a third of the way thru this book. I enjoyed his Ring of Fire series and endured the unrealistic scenes that were played out because some creative artistry was necessary considering the content I was reading. At least the characters were engaging and there was a sense of doom that I got from the series. This book was not deserving of my time or patience.
September 15, 2023
This is another winner from Akart, this one following the events of the Arkstorm reality. The characters are realistic and the science aspects are detailed and well done.
There's a mountain that is great for skiing, until skiers start losing their lives. The main characters examine what is going on and determine that there is a very real chance that the mountain could erupt at any time.
Or maybe it's another area. Or maybe two areas. Maybe all three at the same time.
The things that happen are very well written. There's a number of times when the lives of the main characters are in danger. There's also fascinating other characters including a guy that runs a bar.
There's also a negative side, showing various politicians that are only interested in whether or not they can win the next election and not what is the right thing to do in case of a disaster.
There's also controversy where martial law is declared and people are forced to leave certain areas and it's the military running things.
His books are so well done, including this one, that they are a joy to read.
There's a mountain that is great for skiing, until skiers start losing their lives. The main characters examine what is going on and determine that there is a very real chance that the mountain could erupt at any time.
Or maybe it's another area. Or maybe two areas. Maybe all three at the same time.
The things that happen are very well written. There's a number of times when the lives of the main characters are in danger. There's also fascinating other characters including a guy that runs a bar.
There's also a negative side, showing various politicians that are only interested in whether or not they can win the next election and not what is the right thing to do in case of a disaster.
There's also controversy where martial law is declared and people are forced to leave certain areas and it's the military running things.
His books are so well done, including this one, that they are a joy to read.
November 13, 2023
This is book 3 in the disaster thriller trilogy of ArkStorm, Fractured and now Mammoth. Mammoth picks up where Fractured left off and features characters from the first two books. Scientists Mac Attwood and Taylor Reed are back along with the couple from the first book and fire chief Finn and his dog. The volcano erupts in this book, but far too much time is spent with Mac and Taylor and their romance and awful jokes. There are descriptions of the disaster unfolds, but so much time is spent with the couples it takes away the focus of the book for me. The first remains my favorite- a thrilling look at a disaster that was a page turner. This book was just ok for me and the cheesy wedding was ridiculous. I need a Preston and Child book to recover. Narration was by the same fellow who did the last book, whose voice is so soft what he's reading doesn't really stand out.
December 31, 2023
Educational narration
The book is full of information about volcanos and earthquakes. It's like a novel of awareness about the deadly power of mother Earth when she wants to redesign.
You can learn many things by reading this book, it seems to me the author excelled in his research.
However, the information some times deflated the thrilling emotions. This slowed down my reading pace and made me consider to switch to a different book, but I continued until the end instead.
I would say it is hard science fiction with a high dose of reality, and the goal of awareness was accomplished.
The book is full of information about volcanos and earthquakes. It's like a novel of awareness about the deadly power of mother Earth when she wants to redesign.
You can learn many things by reading this book, it seems to me the author excelled in his research.
However, the information some times deflated the thrilling emotions. This slowed down my reading pace and made me consider to switch to a different book, but I continued until the end instead.
I would say it is hard science fiction with a high dose of reality, and the goal of awareness was accomplished.
November 4, 2023
Mammoth: A Disaster Thriller
I have read many of Mr. Akart' books. He is a extremely talented writer. I loved this book. It got and held my rapt attention from the beginning to the end. The really frightening thing about the book is its realism. I've always been afraid this would happen. I read the entire Ye!lowstone series . It would be the end of civilization as we know it. A least in the United States. Loved the book! Keep them coming Mr. Akart. I am one of your biggest fans.
I have read many of Mr. Akart' books. He is a extremely talented writer. I loved this book. It got and held my rapt attention from the beginning to the end. The really frightening thing about the book is its realism. I've always been afraid this would happen. I read the entire Ye!lowstone series . It would be the end of civilization as we know it. A least in the United States. Loved the book! Keep them coming Mr. Akart. I am one of your biggest fans.
November 17, 2023
Another gripping novel by Bobby Akart!
It is amazing how Bobby Akart's books seem to reflect on current day events. As I finished reading, I am reminded of the people in Iceland waiting for their next volcano to erupt. We, the people, tend to forget that we are only tenants on this earth, not owners. The science and research that go into these books is astounding and you feel you are right there with those characters. Can't wait to see what apocalyptic event he comes up with next!
It is amazing how Bobby Akart's books seem to reflect on current day events. As I finished reading, I am reminded of the people in Iceland waiting for their next volcano to erupt. We, the people, tend to forget that we are only tenants on this earth, not owners. The science and research that go into these books is astounding and you feel you are right there with those characters. Can't wait to see what apocalyptic event he comes up with next!
September 6, 2023
Another great thriller disaster!
Another disaster hits California - this time volcanoes & earthquakes & tremors hit the Mammoth Lakes Ski Resorts causing widespread damage & loss of life. The story includes science & theories outside accepted beliefs but with convincing explanations.
I’m beginning to think author Bobby Akart doesn’t like California the way it is & wants to totally change the California that exists with multiple disasters that are linked together starting with an ARKstorm flooding California, this leads to massive earthquakes linking fault lines together & then all that water & snow affecting the magma & caldera around Mammoth Mountain.
Another disaster hits California - this time volcanoes & earthquakes & tremors hit the Mammoth Lakes Ski Resorts causing widespread damage & loss of life. The story includes science & theories outside accepted beliefs but with convincing explanations.
I’m beginning to think author Bobby Akart doesn’t like California the way it is & wants to totally change the California that exists with multiple disasters that are linked together starting with an ARKstorm flooding California, this leads to massive earthquakes linking fault lines together & then all that water & snow affecting the magma & caldera around Mammoth Mountain.
September 10, 2023
Bobby Akart does it again!
Once again, Bobby Akart has woven together a masterful story full of action, suspense, and thrills. The way he has combined the “worlds” of his ArkStorm novel and Mammoth is genius and seamless. As always, the interaction and chemistry of his characters is astounding and the story is action packed. I can’t wait for Bobby’s next book. You are missing out if you aren’t reading everything he writes!
Once again, Bobby Akart has woven together a masterful story full of action, suspense, and thrills. The way he has combined the “worlds” of his ArkStorm novel and Mammoth is genius and seamless. As always, the interaction and chemistry of his characters is astounding and the story is action packed. I can’t wait for Bobby’s next book. You are missing out if you aren’t reading everything he writes!
March 14, 2024
Fantastic read waiting to happen
I grew up.in Cali and have skied Mammoth MT many times I retired from the American Red Cross in a Pasadena where I was a disaster specialist and taught catastrophic EQ preparedness to the San Gabriel Valley communities I attended many meetings at Caltech on the subject. Your research is right on. I then relocated to SE Missouri and live on the New Madrid fault line and that book was fabulous also.
I grew up.in Cali and have skied Mammoth MT many times I retired from the American Red Cross in a Pasadena where I was a disaster specialist and taught catastrophic EQ preparedness to the San Gabriel Valley communities I attended many meetings at Caltech on the subject. Your research is right on. I then relocated to SE Missouri and live on the New Madrid fault line and that book was fabulous also.
April 7, 2024
As always I absolutely loved this book. Bobby Akart is the best in this genre, in my humble opinion. He's yet to write a book that I haven't enjoyed. With that in mind, I would definitely recommend this to folks, even if they haven't read this genre before. He has a way of writing that relates to so many folks. His characters are always smart, witty and thought provoking. I love his mix of modern day events and fiction. Narration was top notch!
September 4, 2023
Exciting read
I enjoyed this book and the storyline was really interesting. I had to reread several pages because of the pace and trying to understand the terminology used to describe what was happening and why it can and will happen one day in the future that was the believable part of the story line thank you sir for a good book.
I enjoyed this book and the storyline was really interesting. I had to reread several pages because of the pace and trying to understand the terminology used to describe what was happening and why it can and will happen one day in the future that was the believable part of the story line thank you sir for a good book.
September 9, 2023
informative & exciting!
Bobby Akart is one of three writers who grabs my attention on the first page & keeps me mesmerized through the last one. I also make sure I read all of his comments at the end of the book because he always gives me more knowledge & explains the more of the background story. :)
Bobby Akart is one of three writers who grabs my attention on the first page & keeps me mesmerized through the last one. I also make sure I read all of his comments at the end of the book because he always gives me more knowledge & explains the more of the background story. :)
September 10, 2023
Definitely a disaster thriller
ARkStorm and Fractured aren't necessary to read this book, but they do give more backstory on many characters. As a volcano buff, I kept waiting for more connection to the seamount from Fractured, or references to people from the author's Yellowstone series. Still a good story and wrap-up to the California Dreamin' 'non-series'.
ARkStorm and Fractured aren't necessary to read this book, but they do give more backstory on many characters. As a volcano buff, I kept waiting for more connection to the seamount from Fractured, or references to people from the author's Yellowstone series. Still a good story and wrap-up to the California Dreamin' 'non-series'.
September 10, 2023
Another thriller from Bobby Akart
This disaster novel about Volcanic eruptions chills and scares me as I'm reading as it's so very likely to happen here in the mainland US!
Remember Mt St Helen's!
Facts and friends gather for skiing, drinking , weddings and even an official visit to the Whitehouse in an advisory role.
A Real page turner.
This disaster novel about Volcanic eruptions chills and scares me as I'm reading as it's so very likely to happen here in the mainland US!
Remember Mt St Helen's!
Facts and friends gather for skiing, drinking , weddings and even an official visit to the Whitehouse in an advisory role.
A Real page turner.
September 12, 2023
Mac, Taylor and three friends they met during the resulting flooding and earthquakes from the ARKStorm reconnect and during the happy reunion are once again put in life threatening danger but from earthquakes and volcanoes this time. Each of them endure traumatic events and hope they will live to see another day. I highly recommend this edge of your seat thrill ride.
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