Recompense: A Post-Apocalyptic EMP Survival Thriller

by T.L. Payne

After the devastating loss of their Brooks Lake sanctuary, Ayden’s group flees deeper into the unforgiving wilderness of the Wyoming mountains, their hope shattered after the loss of many in their group.

Winter grips the land with icy teeth, and grief runs deep as supplies run low. Their dream of peace feels as fragile as ice sickles.

Forced to relocate to a new lodge, the survivors barely have time to breathe before a new threat emerges—foreign invaders taking hostages at a nearby resort. Are they rogue deserters or something far more dangerous?

The group is thrust into another deadly confrontation when they undertake a mission to uncover the truth.

Outnumbered and outgunned, and with the scarlet stains of their friends’ blood in the frozen snow, death seems to press in from all sides. The future of the nation depends on them—they must hold their ground.

But when the last magazine runs dry and the smoke clears, will anyone still be left standing?

258 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 9, 2025

Reviews

[Sam · Rating 5 out of 5]

I did enjoy this book, as always interesting ideas & circumstances make this a very good read. I generally liked the characters but found there was a little more angst than usual for this writer. Maybe understandable for this terrifying world I think. I am looking forward to the next part & I do recommend!

[Matt Egan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well worth the wait!

Recompense, book 6 in the Conquer The Dark series, picks up the story of Aiden, Mia, Mueller and the others in the wake of their devastating losses. The group risks everything to find a safer home up the mountain, but trouble follows everywhere they go. The writing is absolutely first rate, with great characters, dialog, action and shared trauma as the group tries to reconcile the challenges they've risen to and those that lay ahead. If you've been eagerly awaiting Recompense like I have, you will not be disappointed! 5/5 stars, with the highest recommendation for fans of the series, fans of TL Payne and anyone who enjoys post-EMP survival thrillers. I cannot wait for Deprivation!!

[Donna (BookDragonGirl) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Be Prepared to Be Wrapped Up In The Characters Survival!!

Wow! Talk about feeling what the characters feel!! This was very intense, very cold (freezing cold temps with only a stove to keep them warm) and heart stopping action. Violence and loss. The survivors are becoming hopeless. It all seems so heartbreaking and tragic. It left me feeling like how will they make it? I REALLY NEED THE NEXT BOOK!!!

I’ve loved these characters throughout this story and I’ve routed for them and their ability to keep going, never giving up. To see where they are now is heartbreaking. I really need to see them get their hope and peace. This series is AMAZING!! If you enjoy Post Apocalyptic Thriller Survival stories, you need to check out this series, and this author!!!

[Jennie Owens · Rating 4 out of 5]

So Good

Another good one! This was the long anticipated next book in this series and it did not disappoint. It was full of action and conflict. The last gun fight left me heart broken and a little teary eyed but it was very well written. Wish the next book was coming out sooner rather than later!

[Pam Shelton-Anderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This continues a good series. Part of it is characters worrying and, in particular, a lot of angst from Mia. She has kind of receded to a character whose main role is mom-worry. There is a lot of action at the end and with some sad losses. Looks like quite a while until the next book and I hope I don’t forget this series.

[Karen Hasbrouck · Rating 5 out of 5]

Engrossing

Characters could use a little more respite from violence. More attention to relationship development. More emphasis how the women and children contribute. Nice job on how characters react to loss and violence in the moment. Waiting to see how they cope with tragedy in the long run. Have enjoyed this series immensely.

[Cyndi Reeder · Rating 5 out of 5]

Recompense, book 6 of Conquer the Dark Series

Another excellent book! The story keeps me hooked and I can't put it down. I can't wait until the next book in the series.
This is one of my favorite authors. I look forward to every book and every series.

[Danny · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maybe the best book of the series.

T.L. Payne has matured with this book as have the characters in the Conquer the Dark Series. I hope that Book 7 comes out soon and that I will know a fitting end to the saga. It deserves one.

[Andy Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved the whole series.

Have binge read the 6 books in the series. Teared up when dear characters died. Action filled story with very likable characters. Be ready for unexpected loss of key characters. Will be waiting for book 7.

[G S · Rating 5 out of 5]

Recompense

What a read, so exceptional it was nerve wracking at times. So much death but survival as well. It’s a well written book. Thanks

[Debra Whittaker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read

You've done it again. Great story and left me wanting more. The only thing I dislike is waiting for the next book.