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Zombie Fallout #23
The Broken Road
In an oil refinery deep inside the Panamanian jungle, the Talbot clan awaits a breakthrough as their scientists work nonstop to produce usable fuel. But on the verge of success, an oversight brings down the wrath of both a giant horde and the persistent Brazilian military.
In a shocking development, Mike discovers a possible zombie liaison within their ranks, one that could save the day—or destroy them all—and it’s unclear which way she leans.
Hostages, treachery, sacrifice and fierce battle mark this chapter in the Zombie Fallout saga...just as hope is finally on the horizon.
Meanwhile, in an alternate universe, Azile and Tommy, Elam, Wilkes and Mac come face to face with an unhinged version of Michael they can’t reason with. Their only leverage is a mysterious letter from Trip, written forty years after his death. Will it be enough to persuade this vengeful, soulless monster to risk changing destiny? Or will he forsake what’s left of his humanity and kill them all?
In a shocking development, Mike discovers a possible zombie liaison within their ranks, one that could save the day—or destroy them all—and it’s unclear which way she leans.
Hostages, treachery, sacrifice and fierce battle mark this chapter in the Zombie Fallout saga...just as hope is finally on the horizon.
Meanwhile, in an alternate universe, Azile and Tommy, Elam, Wilkes and Mac come face to face with an unhinged version of Michael they can’t reason with. Their only leverage is a mysterious letter from Trip, written forty years after his death. Will it be enough to persuade this vengeful, soulless monster to risk changing destiny? Or will he forsake what’s left of his humanity and kill them all?
366 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 20, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
August 25, 2024
Interesting installation to this series. Some intriguing changes going on with the zombies and hints at an evolution. Lots of drama and suspense, and of course more than a few laughs. Definitely enjoyable and leaves off at a place that makes you wish there was a special place in hell for authors who left you wondering what happens next knowing you have to wait a year to find out.
October 1, 2024
Some funny stuff but still the same plot. Kill or be killed. But what’s up with Tommy? He was my second favorite character. My first favorite is the character who stayed in Woodstock 50 years too long.
The last few chapters were unnecessarily confusing as they screwed up the already screwed up reality. The witch and cohorts. I never enjoyed reading their parts. (What reality?)
I am now experiencing this series as background noise.
If the next installment doesn’t get better, that’s it…..she says after 23 books. Ha.
The last few chapters were unnecessarily confusing as they screwed up the already screwed up reality. The witch and cohorts. I never enjoyed reading their parts. (What reality?)
I am now experiencing this series as background noise.
If the next installment doesn’t get better, that’s it…..she says after 23 books. Ha.
May 10, 2026
This one is hard to explain because at this point it really feels like I’m reading two different books at the same time, and it ends in a really weird place.
On Mike’s main timeline, they get to a refinery and their goal is to defend it long enough for the scientists to produce fuel so they can load up vehicles and move out.
So most of this part is just:
Mike rushing the scientists, zombies attacking, Brazilians attacking, repeat.
The only real thing that matters here is Avalon.
She’s only 10, but she’s acting way older, and she finally explains what’s going on with her. She says she’s connected to the zombies, like they’re all part of one organism. She compares it to something like mushrooms, where even if one dies, the whole organism continues.
She switches back and forth between talking like that and then acting human, talking about Justin and how she feels grateful and connected to him. Mike is scared of her.
I didn’t like how much he keeps thinking about killing her and Tommy. He doesn’t say it out loud, but in his head he’s constantly like, if they act wrong, I’ll have to kill them. It just felt off.
Avalon also says she can influence zombies slightly, not control them, but push them in certain directions.
We also find out Catalina has a twin sister, and she’s the one leading the Brazilian army now after killing her own husband. She fights Tommy and somehow almost beats him, which is ridiculous.
The rest of Mike’s side is just more of the same.
More bathroom humor. Descriptions of BT using the bathroom, how it sounds, smells, looks. It’s just stupid.
More sexual jokes between Mike and BT.
And once again, Tommy is pushed aside.
At this point, it really feels like the author is trying to justify why Tommy eventually turns. Mike isolates him more and more every book, while being completely focused on BT. It makes no sense because if anything, Mike and Tommy should be closer since they’re both vampires.
We also find out Payne is still alive.
And Charlie is a vampire, which I suspected at one point, but I ignored it because the series never actually does anything interesting with the vampire stuff. So of course now it shows up.
Then more nonsense with trucks breaking down, people getting separated, jungle walking, just filler.
On the alternate timeline side, Azile shows up and tries to stop him.
Mike is acting like this big powerful vampire, but it’s annoying because for 20+ books he never uses these abilities when it matters, and now suddenly he has powers like compulsion.
He literally compels Wilkins to try to shoot Mac.
He stabs Tommy with a blessed blade, leaving him in pain on the ground.
He threatens Azile.
It’s just him being stubborn and aggressive the entire time.
Elam shows up and we find out he’s an empath, and somehow Tripp is using him to communicate. He gives Mike a note from Tripp, but we don’t get to see what it says.
Then Tracy shows up and things get even more confusing.
Apparently in this timeline, they all hate Tommy because he turned Mike into a vampire. Azile says Mike asked for it, but Mike claims he didn’t, that he was passed out and Tommy did it anyway.
Either way, it makes no sense why they’re still mad about it decades later, especially when Tommy saved them over and over again.
They all kind of regroup, eat, and then we get the setup for what’s coming next.
Elam is confirmed as an empath.
Azile says the Lycans are coming and they all need to band together to fight them.
So it seems like the author is finally trying to bring all these storylines together.
At the end, Mike has some kind of realization that isn’t really explained well, and he decides Tommy is evil and a threat to his family.
Then Justin runs in saying Tommy has kidnapped Dallas.
Mike immediately goes into “I’m going to kill him” mode.
And that’s where it ends.
Then we get two Talbidoids at the end that feel completely pointless.
One is some alternate version with Mike and BT, same dynamic, same nonsense.
The other explains how the bomb that caused the zombie apocalypse happened, which I’m guessing ties to the alternate timeline, not the one we’ve been reading.
Overall, this book just feels messy.
Too many timelines, too many inconsistencies, too much filler, and still no real payoff for things that have been building for a long time.
It honestly feels like the timeline stuff is just being used to patch plot holes.
On Mike’s main timeline, they get to a refinery and their goal is to defend it long enough for the scientists to produce fuel so they can load up vehicles and move out.
So most of this part is just:
Mike rushing the scientists, zombies attacking, Brazilians attacking, repeat.
The only real thing that matters here is Avalon.
She’s only 10, but she’s acting way older, and she finally explains what’s going on with her. She says she’s connected to the zombies, like they’re all part of one organism. She compares it to something like mushrooms, where even if one dies, the whole organism continues.
She switches back and forth between talking like that and then acting human, talking about Justin and how she feels grateful and connected to him. Mike is scared of her.
I didn’t like how much he keeps thinking about killing her and Tommy. He doesn’t say it out loud, but in his head he’s constantly like, if they act wrong, I’ll have to kill them. It just felt off.
Avalon also says she can influence zombies slightly, not control them, but push them in certain directions.
We also find out Catalina has a twin sister, and she’s the one leading the Brazilian army now after killing her own husband. She fights Tommy and somehow almost beats him, which is ridiculous.
The rest of Mike’s side is just more of the same.
More bathroom humor. Descriptions of BT using the bathroom, how it sounds, smells, looks. It’s just stupid.
More sexual jokes between Mike and BT.
And once again, Tommy is pushed aside.
At this point, it really feels like the author is trying to justify why Tommy eventually turns. Mike isolates him more and more every book, while being completely focused on BT. It makes no sense because if anything, Mike and Tommy should be closer since they’re both vampires.
We also find out Payne is still alive.
And Charlie is a vampire, which I suspected at one point, but I ignored it because the series never actually does anything interesting with the vampire stuff. So of course now it shows up.
Then more nonsense with trucks breaking down, people getting separated, jungle walking, just filler.
On the alternate timeline side, Azile shows up and tries to stop him.
Mike is acting like this big powerful vampire, but it’s annoying because for 20+ books he never uses these abilities when it matters, and now suddenly he has powers like compulsion.
He literally compels Wilkins to try to shoot Mac.
He stabs Tommy with a blessed blade, leaving him in pain on the ground.
He threatens Azile.
It’s just him being stubborn and aggressive the entire time.
Elam shows up and we find out he’s an empath, and somehow Tripp is using him to communicate. He gives Mike a note from Tripp, but we don’t get to see what it says.
Then Tracy shows up and things get even more confusing.
Apparently in this timeline, they all hate Tommy because he turned Mike into a vampire. Azile says Mike asked for it, but Mike claims he didn’t, that he was passed out and Tommy did it anyway.
Either way, it makes no sense why they’re still mad about it decades later, especially when Tommy saved them over and over again.
They all kind of regroup, eat, and then we get the setup for what’s coming next.
Elam is confirmed as an empath.
Azile says the Lycans are coming and they all need to band together to fight them.
So it seems like the author is finally trying to bring all these storylines together.
At the end, Mike has some kind of realization that isn’t really explained well, and he decides Tommy is evil and a threat to his family.
Then Justin runs in saying Tommy has kidnapped Dallas.
Mike immediately goes into “I’m going to kill him” mode.
And that’s where it ends.
Then we get two Talbidoids at the end that feel completely pointless.
One is some alternate version with Mike and BT, same dynamic, same nonsense.
The other explains how the bomb that caused the zombie apocalypse happened, which I’m guessing ties to the alternate timeline, not the one we’ve been reading.
Overall, this book just feels messy.
Too many timelines, too many inconsistencies, too much filler, and still no real payoff for things that have been building for a long time.
It honestly feels like the timeline stuff is just being used to patch plot holes.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 7, 2024
Another Surprise from Tudo
I think Mark Tudo is either riddled with ADHD or some other issue that causes his mind to just run in every direction known and unknown to man. I thoroughly enjoy reading every page of everything he writes. If you get bored or are not entertained by his writings then I have to wonder about your grasp of the English language and comprehension abilities…well, now that I think about it, maybe you’re just way more intelligent than the rest of us. Anyway, I digress. You will laugh, cry, sit on the edge of your seat, and fall in love with the characters Mark brings to life in his books. Kindle a copy and join in on the fun with the rest of us!
I think Mark Tudo is either riddled with ADHD or some other issue that causes his mind to just run in every direction known and unknown to man. I thoroughly enjoy reading every page of everything he writes. If you get bored or are not entertained by his writings then I have to wonder about your grasp of the English language and comprehension abilities…well, now that I think about it, maybe you’re just way more intelligent than the rest of us. Anyway, I digress. You will laugh, cry, sit on the edge of your seat, and fall in love with the characters Mark brings to life in his books. Kindle a copy and join in on the fun with the rest of us!
November 28, 2024
First off, I love listening to the Zombie Fallout series, Sean Runnette just does an amazing job with all things Mark Tufo.
For me this series is like coming home after a long cold day, curling up with the softest comfiest blanket in a favorite chair, drinking hot cocoa and happily enjoying a visit with your favorite people. After 23 books (more really with other series) the characters feel like family.
This one made me laugh out loud a few times in the beginning! I enjoyed the story from beginning to end and am excited and anxious to read book 24 next…
For me this series is like coming home after a long cold day, curling up with the softest comfiest blanket in a favorite chair, drinking hot cocoa and happily enjoying a visit with your favorite people. After 23 books (more really with other series) the characters feel like family.
This one made me laugh out loud a few times in the beginning! I enjoyed the story from beginning to end and am excited and anxious to read book 24 next…
January 31, 2025
It's hard to believe that nowadays the Zombies are the least of the problems facing Mike Talbot and his dwindling band of haggard survivors.
Disturbingly, Broken Road has brought Mike close to his breaking point as he is now forced to contend with alternate universes, deadly betrayals, and a fierce battle with an insidious faction of the Brazilian military. All this while constantly fleeing from an ever present mammoth horde with no end in sight.
Love the well deserved shoutouts for narrator Sean Runnette made by Mike in this one. Woot.
Disturbingly, Broken Road has brought Mike close to his breaking point as he is now forced to contend with alternate universes, deadly betrayals, and a fierce battle with an insidious faction of the Brazilian military. All this while constantly fleeing from an ever present mammoth horde with no end in sight.
Love the well deserved shoutouts for narrator Sean Runnette made by Mike in this one. Woot.
October 18, 2024
Holy shit. I knew Tommy was a bit different in this world but it’s also showing up in the other timeline? I don’t even know!! All I know is I’m enjoying this different timeline thingy. I’m hoping some people maybe can be saved or changed. It was wild seeing Mike so emotionally douchy lol and having Tracey older. I’ve finally caught up with all the books. Now I’m just here waiting for the next. I hope Dallas will be okay.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 28, 2024
Mark Tufo continues to give us entertaining content in his Mike Talbot universe, telling multiple layers of a story at the same time, in a creative and fun way. If you’ve made it this far through the series, you know exactly what you are getting. The humor is juvenile at times, but you still chuckle. The zombies are still horrific. The relationships between characters remain strong. And don’t, EVER, mess with Mike’s family.
September 11, 2024
Story twists that mess with my head
Another awesome read from Tufo with our favorite band of characters. Keep them coming mark. My only complaint is that I've been caught up to current for so long I have to wait for the next installment. Maybe I'll start reading from beginning again.
Another awesome read from Tufo with our favorite band of characters. Keep them coming mark. My only complaint is that I've been caught up to current for so long I have to wait for the next installment. Maybe I'll start reading from beginning again.
March 19, 2025
For the audiobook.
The spark is gone. I just don't care anymore, Tufo is just telling these boomer tier stories in between the storyline.
Michael is giving Walking Dead Rick speeches about BT and friendship like 4 times a book now.
I think the series jumped the shark, I don't remember certain characters and am not going to reach back at this point. Had a good run.
The spark is gone. I just don't care anymore, Tufo is just telling these boomer tier stories in between the storyline.
Michael is giving Walking Dead Rick speeches about BT and friendship like 4 times a book now.
I think the series jumped the shark, I don't remember certain characters and am not going to reach back at this point. Had a good run.
August 29, 2024
I love this series. I gave it 4-stars because it seems The Broken Road was cut short for the dimensional tales and explanations. Don’t get me wrong- the story was fun and great, as per, but unsure wish we’d gotten more.
August 30, 2024
Great
As usual this was an excellent story. Mike and company are stuck in a refinery in South America trying to get back to the US. There are lots of things standing in their way and Mike has to get them free. Lots of action, danger, and laughs will be had.
As usual this was an excellent story. Mike and company are stuck in a refinery in South America trying to get back to the US. There are lots of things standing in their way and Mike has to get them free. Lots of action, danger, and laughs will be had.
August 30, 2024
so excited for another book
Best author. Love love this series. Don’t ever end ZF. It’s like friends being reunited. The storyline keeps you interested and difficult to put it down. Excited for the next one
Best author. Love love this series. Don’t ever end ZF. It’s like friends being reunited. The storyline keeps you interested and difficult to put it down. Excited for the next one
October 27, 2024
promising continuation of the Zimbie Fallout series
Just when you thought it was becoming predictable #23 opens a Pandora’s box of adventures for Mike and friends.
Looking forward to #24.
Keep up the good work!
Just when you thought it was becoming predictable #23 opens a Pandora’s box of adventures for Mike and friends.
Looking forward to #24.
Keep up the good work!
August 23, 2025
One of the best series
I swear Mark Tufo never disappoint. I wish I could afford to read every book he's ever written. But unfortunately I can't. I wish you would put more on Kindle unlimited.
I swear Mark Tufo never disappoint. I wish I could afford to read every book he's ever written. But unfortunately I can't. I wish you would put more on Kindle unlimited.
November 11, 2025
The last chapter and Talbots-side make the story well worth it. The trickling in of Wlks and Azile are getting really interesting.
Otherwise, this is a fun, familiar story of the Talbot clan fighting the world as the world throws more and more highly developed zombies and survivors its way.
Otherwise, this is a fun, familiar story of the Talbot clan fighting the world as the world throws more and more highly developed zombies and survivors its way.
August 23, 2024
Lol
I laughed so hard the first couple chapters that I think the neighbor think I'm a lunatic. Well worth the read.
I laughed so hard the first couple chapters that I think the neighbor think I'm a lunatic. Well worth the read.
August 28, 2024
Awesome
September 23, 2024
I love this whole series. I can't remember when I've actually laughed out loud so many times while reading a book.
May 12, 2025
too many parallel plots
The shifting around of plots and characters has gone amuck. Stick to main line of story. He is the reason I buy
The shifting around of plots and characters has gone amuck. Stick to main line of story. He is the reason I buy
July 12, 2025
Awesome!
What a book! They just keep getting better and better. I can’t wait to get into the next one but at the same time I don’t want to reach the end.
Great writing Tufo!
What a book! They just keep getting better and better. I can’t wait to get into the next one but at the same time I don’t want to reach the end.
Great writing Tufo!
March 12, 2026
Sad that I had to read this after #24, but it was still stellar as always.
September 14, 2024
The series that just keeps on giving! Showing no signs of getting old or boring it’s just keeps gathering strength! Laugh out loud moments, gore galore and genuine edge of your seat suspense. So well written and cannot wait for the next instalment. Thanks Mark 👍
January 20, 2025
Standard zombie fallout formula, it’s good but could have been better. The alternate timeline stuff is quite interesting though and I can’t wait to see more of that
July 8, 2025
Another Good One!
This book had lots of snark and great adventures! I enjoyed every single part. These characters now feel like they are a part of my life, and I can't wait to read what happens next!
This book had lots of snark and great adventures! I enjoyed every single part. These characters now feel like they are a part of my life, and I can't wait to read what happens next!
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews