The Long Haul: Pursuit of Hope

Train Hoppers #2

by Lena Gibson

In 2195, GreenCorps controls the arid western lands of the former United States. They regulate water and sell only terminator seeds—forcing ongoing dependence on the corporation.
Elsa has the key to the Doomsday seed bunkers and taking it north to Canada is the only way to ensure its safety.
The rebels send help, but her group is betrayed before their departure. Fleeing in the night, Elsa and her friends disappear into the mountains, only one step ahead of GreenCorps soldiers.
In Denver, Ginger, the sheltered daughter of the GreenCorps leader, hops a train, escaping her lonely existence imprisoned in her father's mansion. Encountering hardship and devastating thirst, Ginger experiences the disparity between the starving, oppressed populace and her life of privilege.
Rescued by Elsa’s group, she vows to help break the corporation’s stranglehold.
As the GreenCorps henchmen close in, the race with the key becomes desperate. If caught, Elsa and her found family face life imprisonment, or worse, execution—their one chance to change their world, lost forever.
Continue the journey from Switching Tracks, a thrilling dystopian train-hopping adventure.

Genres: Science Fiction, Post Apocalyptic, Dystopia

353 pages, Paperback

Published June 5, 2024

About the author

Award-winning author Lena Gibson is a storyteller as an elementary school teacher and keeper of the family lore. As someone with autism, she often creates characters that reflect this experience.

A voracious reader from childhood onward, Lena seeks wonderful books in which to escape. She loves interesting characters and fast-paced, emotional narratives, leading her to write genre-defying stories in multiple categories. While her books are disaster romance, time slip, dystopian adventure, and sports romance, all are about love, resilience, and hope.

When Lena isn't writing, she reads, practices karate, and drinks a ton of tea. She resides in New Westminster, Canada, with her family and their fuzzy overlord, Ash, the fluffiest of gray cats.

https://linktr.ee/LenaGibsonAuthor

Reviews

[KJFieler · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this series! As with book one, book two hooked me on page one. Gibson's characters are complex and they tug at your heart as they face one challenge after another, each more intense than the last. Vivid Descriptions of their harsh reality are thought-provoking.

[David Buzan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lena Gibson's unique gift of genre-bending, bravura storytelling is on full display in 'The Long Haul.' The action is intense, the romance is sweeping, and the world-building is evocative. Get on board for one unforgettable ride!

[Joi Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

BOOK REVIEW-"The Long Haul" is a riveting dystopian thriller set in a future where GreenCorps wields absolute control over water and agriculture, dominating the arid landscapes of post-United States. In this stark world of corporate oppression, Elsa emerges as a courageous protagonist, entrusted with the crucial key to Doomsday seed bunkers—an artifact that could shift the balance of power.

The narrative unfolds with relentless tension as Elsa and her allies, betrayed and hunted by GreenCorps, embark on a perilous journey north to Canada. Their flight through treacherous terrain is a gripping testament to their resilience and determination against overwhelming odds.

Meanwhile, Ginger, sheltered and privileged within GreenCorps' elite circles, undergoes a transformative journey of her own. Fleeing her gilded cage, she confronts the harsh realities faced by the oppressed masses, forging an unexpected alliance with Elsa's group. Together, they vow to dismantle GreenCorps' stranglehold and bring justice to a society plagued by inequality and corporate tyranny.

"The Long Haul" masterfully intertwines action-packed sequences with poignant explorations of societal disparity and the indomitable human spirit. As GreenCorps' relentless pursuit closes in, the stakes escalate to a desperate race against time—an electrifying climax that underscores the characters' courage and the high cost of resistance.

Laced with profound themes of freedom, justice, and the resilience of the human spirit, this novel captivates with its timely exploration of power, rebellion, and the quest for a better future. "The Long Haul" is a thought-provoking and exhilarating read that resonates long after the final page is turned.

MUST READ 📚

[Adelle Powers · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Long Haul is a great addition to the Hoppers series – it feels like an organic continuation of book one. It has a bigger reach in terms of conflict and geography, and a larger cast of character (Ginger is a wonderful addition to the series), but maintains the tone of book one and the characters stay true to themselves. The overall feeling of this book is that there is always hope, and there are always options. On the surface, the characters consistently find themselves closed-in or restricted in their movements (a rich girl stuck in her rooms, a stowaway stuck on a moving train, rebels stuck in a fugitive existence, etc), but despite odds which seem insurmountable (an evil corporation hoarding resources, soulless men hell-bent on revenge), goodness always prevails. Sometimes, in small ways. Unexpected water sources in a land thought to be devoid of fresh water. A message reaching its intended recipient despite a myriad of obstacles. These small moments of hope lead to big things as Elsa, Walker and their friends discover their power and become resourceful in ways that could impact Greencorps in huge ways. I read book one because I like train hopping stories and Lena Gibson delivered so much more than that – she covers archaeology, ecology, politics, gender politics, class warfare, and so much more. And it’s fun. It’s an immersive story and it’s very easy to get pulled in by the great world building, the cast of characters, and the various romances and relationships. Ready for book 3!

[Sienna Burke · Rating 5 out of 5]

I won this book on Goodreads Givealways. Lena was kind enough to send me a signed copy so I moved it to the top of my reading list. I purchased the first book in the series and I'm so glad I did.

This was an adventure with unexpected surprises. The McCoys and Greencorps are @$$es! I love all the other characters...well maybe not so much Hayden. Elsa has a strength and determination that can't be matched. All of the hoppers have great strength too. The intertwining love stories are perfect. I can't wait to know what happens next as I sit here hoping for a 3rd book in the series.

This book pulls you in and you're there with them. Some parts were a bit harder to read because it was so close and like these horrid things were happening to a friend. But (I know I'm not supposed to start a sentence that way 😂) then there's triumph over the situation and the excitement of the chase. Every time you thought they were safe then BAM something happens. Until the end when the Canadians helped and shut @$$hat down. I suspect it won't last long though...

I was also elated to find the beginning of Aftermath: Into the unknown (sequel to The Edge of Life: Love and survival during the apocalypse) In the back. I was hoping for more there too. After reading 3 of Lena's books I can safely say she has become one of my top favorite authors!

[Hope Jones · Rating 4 out of 5]

The post apocalyptic story continues and it still holds my attention. I find it interesting that other countries are living almost normal lives even after the events that put GreenCorps into power in the US. It seems only the US is so affected by The Collapse that using satellites and computers has become something almost magical. And Portland is in Canada now. Does Lena Gibson have a crystal ball? Can she see the future? Currently it will be the tech bros that will have the stranglehold and not an agriculture company. Through lots of twists and turns and meeting new friends along the way the crew makes their way to Canada. The Canadians are floored by Elsa telling them she was born in SoCal and was never convicted of a crime. Of course Jaxon tracks them to Canada and tries to bribe and pull the usual stunts he pulls with relative immunity in GreenCorps territory. It doesn’t work so well in Canada. But he also gives Elsa reason to return to GreenCorps territory because she needs to get to her sister and nieces. Now onto the final leg of this journey.

[Mrs R · Rating 5 out of 5]

So we carry on from where book 1 left, with Elsa and her travel companions recuperating but making plans; they all know it's a temporary situation. When they are betrayed, it's starts a race to get to the Canadian border.

I fell straight back into Elsa's story and the struggles she and her travel companions go through. I love how they became a family of sorts, relying on each other and using each other's strengths to benefit the group.

We get another viewpoint from Ginger, daughter of a GreenCorps leader. She's led a lonely life, and now she starts to learn that everything she thought she knew was lies.

This book will hook you in. It's a fascinating look into the corruption that could happen in a futuristic dystopian world.

You don't technically need to have read book 1, but I would highly recommend reading it first as it will give you background on all the characters that are only skimmed over in this book.

[Bree Pearson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am really loving this series… the plot is staying on course and the characters as consistent… I love mixed POVs from clearly defined characters… which is especially important listening to an audiobook… I think Lena has done this brilliantly…

I can’t say I thought the additional romance subplot felt necessary, especially since it relied on past history of the characters… and if a pattern were to emerge then I feel like I know who’s romantic plot will feature in future instalments… but I did liked how Elsa is given the opportunity to explore new relationships and find family and trust… this has made for a great cast of characters…

Looking forward to more from this series…

[Mary Cheek · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Long Haul is another five star read from Lena Gibson!
It is all about finding new family and a determination to overthrow GreenCorp.
As they struggle to get to the seed bunkers, Elsa and Walker join others as they try to make their way north. Plenty of danger and adventures that will keep you reading all night.
An epic journey and struggle to survive make for an unforgettable novel. Anxiously waiting the next installment of this series!
I received a free copy of this book and this is my honest and voluntary review.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

A scary view of a possible future for the US, this story has plenty of drama and action to keep one's attention. Issues of trust amidst fear and oppression run throughout the novel and the viewpoint from different characters helps the story move at a good pace. I hadn't read the previous novel and while I was still able to follow the story, it might be a good idea to read this in order. However, there were enough clues that helped me fill in any gaps.

I look forward to reading more from this writer.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Joan Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you, Lena Gibson


All Aboard

This is the first time reading this author. This is the second story about GreenCorp.
It is written in such a way that it can be both read as standalone or as the follow up to the first book.

This is such a powerfully intense story of a post-apocalyptic world that is run by Green Corp. It has strong vibes of Mad Max franchise.

This story is an action-packed and cringe worthy page turner. The story kept my attention throughout. The characters are believable. The alternative world is very cinematic.

Crime Thriller
Post apocalyptic world

[joshua williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely enjoyed this story! Was a big fan of Switching Tracks and enjoyed this story even more. From the very beginning the story is action packed and by the end it left me wanting more. There's so much I want to say but don't want to give away any spoilers so I'll leave you with this… Read this book!!

[Destiny Imperati · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review ✨️
☆Amazing storytelling♡
Lena did a great job writing this. The writing was very entertaining throughout the whole story. The Long Haul is all about the fight for survival, filled with so much suspense and action. I was nervous for the characters 😬 I loved this so much, part of that reasoning being because I'm obsessed with trains 🤣🤣 Definitely recommend this! 🙌

[Cindy Elton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent story

I really enjoyed this second book in the series. By the middle of the book I found it hard to put down. I needed to know how this ragtag group of people were going to survive or if they were going to be hunted down and jailed. They continue on from one bad situation to another and back again in pursuit of a better life for themselves and their extended families.
Post-apocolypse United States sounds like a horrible place in this book. I hope it never really happens this way. But if it does, maybe there will be a rebel group keeping seeds for our future, too.

[Kirsten · Rating 5 out of 5]

The heart pounding action in book two of the Train Hoppers series had me on the edge of my seat, but it was the strong characters and amazing dystopian world building that will keep me thinking of this book. I especially loved the strong female characters and the found family elements added to the story. They gave the story depth and made it clear what kind of world Elsa, Walker, Tatsuda and the others are fighting for. This book gives me hope for the future; I’m looking forward to book three!

[Scott Shjefte · Rating 4 out of 5]

Borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, read with the Alexa audio assist application. A woman and her grandmother survive raiding trash heaps of a fallen civilization in a dystopian society. Running from corporate greed with near complete social control..

[TraceyA · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome as book 1

From the start I was hooked, wanting to see how the hero and
heroine survived. And I wasn't disappointed, the story flowed easily and as the first hard to put down. Now ill keep this short ad I head off to read book 3.

[Jamie Helaudais · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Long Haul: Pursuit of Hope is the second installment of Lena Gibson's Train Hoppers series. It was just as enthralling and entertaining as the first. Elsa and Walker's journey continues with them making new connections and friends, while trying to keep ahead of the evil people trying to stop their cause. The writing and world building are phenomenal. The characters are so genuine. I like how the story seems to be tying into The Edge of Life, another favorite of mine. I'm super excited to read the next book in the series.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Sam · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great second book in this interesting dystopian series! A really great storyline, well thought out plot & characters, a nice turn of phrase! I did really enjoy this, interesting ideas & unexpected moments, a really great read! I do recommend!

[A Look Inside: Reviews and Interviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

In The Long Haul, the second installment of Lena Gibson's Train Hoppers series, the dystopian adventure takes readers deeper into a world dominated by GreenCorps, an omnipotent corporation controlling the arid western lands of the former United States. Gibson masterfully builds on the foundation set in Switching Tracks, delivering a story filled with tension, intrigue, and a fierce struggle for survival.

The narrative picks up in 2195, where GreenCorps maintains its grip through the regulation of vital resources like water and the distribution of terminator seeds, ensuring perpetual dependence on the corporation. At the heart of this conflict is Elsa, the protagonist who carries the key to the Doomsday seed bunkers. Her mission is clear: transport the key north to Canada, safeguarding it from falling into the wrong hands. However, the journey is fraught with danger, as Elsa and her companions must evade the relentless pursuit of GreenCorps soldiers.

Gibson's plot is a testament to her ability to weave a tale that is both compelling and richly detailed. The betrayal Elsa's group faces before their departure adds a layer of suspense that propels the story forward. The flight into the mountains, with GreenCorps soldiers in hot pursuit, provides a gripping backdrop for the unfolding drama. As Elsa and her friends navigate this treacherous terrain, readers are treated to a vivid portrayal of their struggles and triumphs, making for an immersive reading experience.

Character development is one of the standout elements in The Long Haul. Elsa emerges as a resilient and resourceful leader, her determination and courage shining through every challenge she faces. The introduction of Ginger, the sheltered daughter of the GreenCorps leader, adds a new dimension to the story. Ginger's escape from her father's mansion and subsequent hardships underscore the stark contrast between her former life of privilege and the harsh realities of the oppressed populace. Her evolution from a naive girl to a committed ally of Elsa's group is both believable and inspiring.

For fans of the dystopian adventure genre, The Long Haul offers everything one could hope for. The novel's pacing is relentless, with each chapter bringing new twists and escalating the stakes. Gibson's world-building is meticulous, painting a bleak yet captivating picture of a society under corporate tyranny. The themes of resistance, sacrifice, and the fight for a better future resonate deeply, making the book not just an adventure, but a commentary on contemporary issues.

Gibson's prose is both evocative and accessible, striking a balance that will appeal to a wide audience. She deftly captures the tension of high-stakes chases, the camaraderie among the rebels, and the desolation of a world on the brink. The emotional depth of the characters and their relationships adds a layer of complexity that elevates the story beyond a mere action-packed thriller.

The Long Haul is a worthy successor to Switching Tracks. Lena Gibson has crafted a sequel that not only lives up to the promise of the first book but expands the scope and intensity of the series. Readers will find themselves invested in Elsa and Ginger's journey, rooting for them as they battle against overwhelming odds. With its compelling plot, well-developed characters, and thought-provoking themes, The Long Haul is a must-read for anyone who loves dystopian adventures.

[Book Reviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

In The Long Haul, the second installment of Lena Gibson's Train Hoppers series, readers are transported into a gripping post-apocalyptic narrative set in the remnants of the United States. The story centers around Elsa, a pivotal character in the fight against GreenCorps, a domineering corporation controlling essential resources like food and water. Elsa's mission to distribute hidden seeds and supplies marks her as a beacon of hope amidst corporate tyranny, a journey that commences with her recovery from a near-death encounter with a high-ranking GreenCorps official.

Gibson masterfully crafts a tale of suspense and rebellion, encapsulating a world where the key to liberation lies in Elsa's hands. The narrative unfolds with a bounty on Elsa's head, escalating tensions as GreenCorps relentlessly pursues her. The addition of a surprising ally to her team of rebels and friends injects further complexity and danger into their mission, enhancing the story's sense of urgency and peril.

Set against a dystopian backdrop, The Long Haul is more than an adventure; it's a reflection on the control of basic necessities and the struggle for freedom. Gibson's writing style is fluid and immersive, drawing readers into a world vividly painted with descriptive prowess. The pacing of the story mimics a seamless, high-speed journey, allowing readers to lose themselves in the unfolding drama without interruption. Gibson displays a keen ability to balance overarching themes with intricate details, maintaining a narrative focus while indulging readers with thoughtfully crafted scenes. Her characters are not merely players in the story; they are intricately layered individuals, each distinct and memorable in their own right, contributing to the novel's rich tapestry.

Lena Gibson's The Long Haul is a remarkable addition to the post-apocalyptic fiction genre. With its immersive storytelling, engaging characters, and expertly crafted plot, this novel is a must-read for anyone looking for a captivating and thought-provoking read.

[Knižný (Valéria Scholtzová) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC ebook for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

2195 Southern California - SoCal - turned into an open space prison camp for political prisoners. GreenCorps wins its privileged place among the corporatocracy by keeping the poor ones and their opponents locked and half-starving. In the first book, Elsa takes care of herself and her grandma. She’s trying to earn some plastic tokens to be able to buy food and water. While scavenging, she finds an old metal cylinder. She wants to exchange it for tokens, but decides to keep it. Soon, her life makes a 180-degree turn. She should play the role of a virgin lover for a powerful and cruel man. Someone she thought was an enemy turns into her guardian and gives her a chance to change destiny and run from her many enemies (cruel man and GreenCorp).

The insides of the metal tubes contain seeds of different plants. Doomsday seed bunkers keep their treasures and only Elsa has the key. She wants everybody to get their own food. But GreenCorp can't let this happen. People need to keep paying for their food.

The second part of the series, The Long Haul, continues with Elsa's story. She and her buddies decide to embark on a journey north to Canada.

We also get to know a new character, Ginger. She's learning about all the fake propaganda of the GreenCorps' elites. She was raised by them, but the planned wedding with a brute opens her eyes.

While on the run, she finds Elsa's group and even if they first seem to be enemies, they forge an alliance against GreenCorps' oppression.

The second book is better written and the characters are drawn in an interesting way.

This Train Hoppers series reminds me of the Divergent. But it's much more cruel. If I could mention some games, the darkness brings up memories of the game Elex and the bunkers of Horizon Zero Dawn.

[Bill Schweitzer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Multi-layered Dystopian Thriller

Like all good dystopian stories, The Long Haul by Lena Gibson is a cautionary tale. It’s the sequel to Switching Tracks, and continues the story of Elsa and Walker in their quest to find the hidden seed bunkers that may be the answer to overthrowing the yoke of oppression by the GreenCorp monopoly.
It’s a well-crafted story on three layers.
Layer one is the story itself—a page-turning thriller steeped in suspense, with just enough descriptive sex to be titillating without being cringe-worthy. The romance of Elsa and Walker continues, joined now by new characters who begin their own tentative journeys to romance.
Layer two is a frightening glimpse into a future world where the modern trend towards corporatization has resulted in a cruel monopoly that controls everything and everyone within the United States. In this world the gap between the rich and poor is even more pronounced and GreenCorp owns and controls virtually everything.
Layer three is a vision of the effects of Climate Change in the not-too-distant future (2195). Populations have been decimated and the arable land that does exist is owned by GreenCorp.
The three layers are artfully blended into one engrossing saga. Like me, you will be looking forward to the next sequel!
—Bill Schweitzer, author of Doves in a Tempest-The Valley of Horror

[Karen K Brees · Rating 5 out of 5]

The saga of survival in what used to be America after The Collapse continues in Lena Gibson’s latest installment, The Long Haul. With the addition of two new characters, Ginger and Mason, and new recruits at Grady’s rebel headquarters, there is the beginning of a faint promise that Green Corps’ stranglehold on the population may be coming to an end. But it’s not coming any time soon, if the McCoys have any say in the matter.

There is evil at work on a grand scale in this not so brave New World, and controlling an entire population through thirst and starvation has allowed the McCoys and their forces to grow rich and powerful. There comes a tipping point, however, and Elsa literally holds the key to the downfall of this corrupt regime. If she is to succeed, she and her small band of friends and misfits must survive long enough to carry samples of seeds from a network of bunkers to Canada, where a friendly regime may be persuaded to help the Rebels overthrow Green Corps.

The Long Haul is the trek to grasp a last chance at survival. It’s a great read. Each volume in this series stands alone, while opening the door to the next installment. Highly recommended.

[Diane Nagatomo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lena Gibson, in The Long Haul: Pursuit of Hope, does another superb job of transporting readers to a terrifying, and yet totally believable, post-apocalyptic United States in 2195. In this second book of the Train Hopper series, the Green Corp continues its pursuit of Elsa and Walker, who hold the key (literally) that could end the corporation’s greedy hold on every aspect of the citizens’ lives. As they make their way toward Canada for political asylum and to put their plan into place, they join forces with characters introduced from Switching Tracks: Out of the Trash and establish some new bonds with surprising new characters as well. This was a real page turner, and I couldn’t stop reading until I reached the end. But there’s a twist, and they are not at the end of their adventures. Not yet. I will be counting the days until I can read the third and final book in this amazing series. While it is possible to enjoy this volume without having read the first one, I strongly recommend starting with it. I promise, you won’t be disappointed. A strong five stars!

[Cheryl Jennings · Rating 5 out of 5]

I jumped at the chance to get an Advance Readers’ Copy of Lena Gibson’s new book so I could continue the story from Switching Tracks. Book Two, The Long Haul picks up with Elsa living in exile, but still in charge of the most important part of her dangerous discovery. We learn more about the treachery of friends, the depth of evil in GreenCorps, and the humanity of the resistance, rebels and saints.
Elsa and friends’ harrowing and sweaty escape through the mountains to get to the seed bunkers takes place in the beautiful but hostile environment of the Intermountain West of the U.S. In 2195 the geography is mostly the same, but only some of the civilization of the previous centuries remains. Elsa and her group expose the ugliness of lust, power and greed of GreenCorps officials and soldiers and help to organize forces against them.
Dangerous adventures make the pages fly by. At the end I just wanted to read Book Three to see what finally happens. The sneak peak was not enough.
Highly recommended.

[Gary Gerlacher · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Long Haul: Pursuit of Hope finds Elsa and Walker fighting to escape the Corporation that is hunting them. Aided by rebel groups, they manage to stay one step ahead of their captors as new members join their group. The book concludes with a desperate attempt to reach Canada, where they will either find freedom or be turned over for execution.

Book Two in the Train Hoppers series continues an epic drama of survival in a post apocalyptic world. Gibson’s characters are complex, each with an intriguing back story and a different motivation to move forward. The result is a book with multiple story lines seamlessly woven together into a saga you won’t want to put down. I am anxiously awaiting book theee to see how the series will conclude.

[Cam Torrens · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lena Gibson’s The Long Haul is a gripping and poignant tale, transporting readers to a post-apocalyptic Earth scarred by climate change and an asteroid strike. Gibson dives deep into the struggles of the tenacious protagonist, Elsa, as she grapples with the aftermath of a traumatic attack. Supported by her partner, train-hopping Walker, they form an unlikely alliance with new companions, including the sister of Elsa's assailant, in a desperate escape attempt. Gibson skillfully weaves themes of friendship, trust, love, and perseverance throughout the narrative, capturing the essence of human resilience in the face of adversity. With her unparalleled talent for crafting multifaceted characters, the author immerses readers in a world where romance blooms amidst the harsh realities of a dystopian landscape. As Elsa and her companions embark on a treacherous journey, searching for the keys to society’s survival, their enemies close in. The Long Haul is a testament to Gibson's mastery of storytelling, leaving readers eagerly anticipating the next chapter in this captivating series. 5 Stars!

[Mrs LIR Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good story of a teenager who has the means to help the world after the devastation of the planet. Elsa has the keys to the vaults were seeds were preserved for the future of humanity - she is trying to get them to people who will share them with all rather than use the seeds a means to controlling the world. This is the story of her journey with her friends and with others who are also escaping the vicious rulers.

I did not read the first book but was able to really enjoy this book - however I think the story would be enhanced if read from book 1.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Ian Burnside · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lucky to receive this as an advanced reader copy and Lena did not disappoint ! I had just finished the first book in the series and was hooked. The second book continued the thrilling ride from the beginning that didn’t allow me to put this book down. The character development and plot is riveting and keeps readers wanting to see what’s going to happen next. The only sad part is I want more now!