What do you think?
Rate this book
The Way of Dan #3
Boondock Pilgrims: The Way of Dan, Book 3
Just when Dan and Holly think things can't get any stranger, a terrifying new presence arrives in their community. Faces smudged with ash. Bodies decorated with mysterious symbols. Crude hides for clothing. Weird rituals conducted in the dark of night.
For the small group of refugees in the Idaho mountains, it's beginning to seem like every step forward just gives the world one more opportunity to blindside them.
Things had started to look good for Dan and Holly. They had solar power and more food than they could eat in a decade. They had friends, and they had each other. They'd also finalized some tough decisions that had been hanging over them, so now they had a plan.
Then the weirdos crept into town like fog moving on the breeze. They looked like something that had walked out of a Neanderthal display at a museum. It might have been entertaining if not for the air of primal and unearthly menace that the visitors brought with them. Hiding was futile, and threats didn't deter them because both groups were after the same thing.
But with resources too precious to share, only one party can prevail.
For the small group of refugees in the Idaho mountains, it's beginning to seem like every step forward just gives the world one more opportunity to blindside them.
Things had started to look good for Dan and Holly. They had solar power and more food than they could eat in a decade. They had friends, and they had each other. They'd also finalized some tough decisions that had been hanging over them, so now they had a plan.
Then the weirdos crept into town like fog moving on the breeze. They looked like something that had walked out of a Neanderthal display at a museum. It might have been entertaining if not for the air of primal and unearthly menace that the visitors brought with them. Hiding was futile, and threats didn't deter them because both groups were after the same thing.
But with resources too precious to share, only one party can prevail.
- GenresPost Apocalyptic
Audible Audio
Published January 18, 2022
202 people are currently reading
48 people want to read
About the author
Franklin Horton
57 books369 followersFranklin Horton lives and writes in the mountains of southwestern Virginia. He attended Virginia Intermont College and Virginia Commonwealth University. In his spare time he pursues outdoor adventures with his wife and two children. His interests include camping, kayaking, backpacking, mountain biking, and shooting.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
February 13, 2022
Wow, this book took the series down a stupid path. But the dissertation at the end was spot on, so it earned a second star.
January 18, 2022
Enjoyed the third installment in this fun post-apocalyptic series. A new book means a new villain and they did not disappoint. Dan and Holly continue to be a great double act. I was captivated by witnessing more of Kyle's particular brand of crazy. Looking forward to the next book in the series.
February 22, 2022
I really enjoy the way of Dan books, I identify with Dan more than any other character in books like these. In this installment a group shows up to steal the bunker and sort of shines a light on the problems with building a bunker like this in that the people who build it will be aware of it!
The moral of the story is that if you ever build a bunker like this hire contractors from the other side of the country and bring people in from as far away as possible, that way if the power goes out it would take them too long to attempt to walk there. by hiring someone closer by you risk them deciding its worth the hike!
The moral of the story is that if you ever build a bunker like this hire contractors from the other side of the country and bring people in from as far away as possible, that way if the power goes out it would take them too long to attempt to walk there. by hiring someone closer by you risk them deciding its worth the hike!
September 15, 2023
Dan, Dan, the pot-head preacher man, has transformed into a philosopher. Is he becoming a Rastafarian? I'm surprised he didn't just play Bob Marley on a continuous loop. The pot must have had a side effect because he's become quite funny as well. His banter with Holly is very amusing, and they behave like an old married couple with a sideline as a comedic duo.
The gang comes face to face with a cult of paganists who embrace a back-to-nature lifestyle, living off the land and rejecting all modern accessories. However, this group of pagans is different; they want to live in a nice house with all the mod-cons, including food, heating, and comfort to see them through the winter. So, they're more like the cult of creature comforts, making the term "pagan" a bit of an oxymoron.
Dan also has a problem with the bunker-type house's front door, as it seems that everyone, from Tom, Dick, and Harry can just walk into this high security house, and as to Bird and Krin, they must have a memory span of an old goldfish. Perhaps too much pot is to blame for their forgetfulness.
Overall, setting aside some of the absurdities, I thought it was very entertaining and an amusing story.
The gang comes face to face with a cult of paganists who embrace a back-to-nature lifestyle, living off the land and rejecting all modern accessories. However, this group of pagans is different; they want to live in a nice house with all the mod-cons, including food, heating, and comfort to see them through the winter. So, they're more like the cult of creature comforts, making the term "pagan" a bit of an oxymoron.
Dan also has a problem with the bunker-type house's front door, as it seems that everyone, from Tom, Dick, and Harry can just walk into this high security house, and as to Bird and Krin, they must have a memory span of an old goldfish. Perhaps too much pot is to blame for their forgetfulness.
Overall, setting aside some of the absurdities, I thought it was very entertaining and an amusing story.
Read
December 22, 2022Odd, how a nondescript man like Dan may have figured out what's wrong with society today!
I assume, like most, I took Dan as the "lightweight" of the bunch, the "comic relief" of the story. His refusal to let what we considered to be the "great loss to society" as something to mourn. I was completely lost to the simplicity and clarity of his insight until the last chapter, where he went from simpleton to genius. It was all there for me to put together (even insight gathered from over 70 years on the planet) but I just didn't put it together until Dan finally explained "the way of Dan".
I assume, like most, I took Dan as the "lightweight" of the bunch, the "comic relief" of the story. His refusal to let what we considered to be the "great loss to society" as something to mourn. I was completely lost to the simplicity and clarity of his insight until the last chapter, where he went from simpleton to genius. It was all there for me to put together (even insight gathered from over 70 years on the planet) but I just didn't put it together until Dan finally explained "the way of Dan".
February 26, 2025
Fantastic Story by an excellent author
Franklin Horton is a great storyteller.
Fact.
The Way of Dan books are soo good it should be required reading for all potential preppers out there in book reading land. This three book series is such a quick read because the flow is almost perfect. The story is about a post emp world told thru the coolest character that a fifty year old like me can totally relate to. The story covers all ranges of emotions from fear to wonder to suspense to anger to sadness to you get the idea.
Do yourself a favor and read everything by Franklin Horton. You can thank me later.
Franklin Horton is a great storyteller.
Fact.
The Way of Dan books are soo good it should be required reading for all potential preppers out there in book reading land. This three book series is such a quick read because the flow is almost perfect. The story is about a post emp world told thru the coolest character that a fifty year old like me can totally relate to. The story covers all ranges of emotions from fear to wonder to suspense to anger to sadness to you get the idea.
Do yourself a favor and read everything by Franklin Horton. You can thank me later.
June 9, 2025
Bird & Krin experience true crazy
Boondock Pilgrims, book 3 in the Way Of Dan series, brings craziness to the mountain in a way that it hadn't before, even with Kyle. After accepting Dan and Holly's invitation to move into the bunker with them, they return to the brewery to gather their belongings and things get crazy! I'm not going to spoil any of the fun in Boondock Pilgrims, its too much fun. The writing is exemplary, the plot well paced and unpredictable, even for a Franklin Horton book, which is no small statement. Readers who enjoy unpredictable and taut thrillers will be enthralled with Boondock Pilgrims! 5/5 stars!
Boondock Pilgrims, book 3 in the Way Of Dan series, brings craziness to the mountain in a way that it hadn't before, even with Kyle. After accepting Dan and Holly's invitation to move into the bunker with them, they return to the brewery to gather their belongings and things get crazy! I'm not going to spoil any of the fun in Boondock Pilgrims, its too much fun. The writing is exemplary, the plot well paced and unpredictable, even for a Franklin Horton book, which is no small statement. Readers who enjoy unpredictable and taut thrillers will be enthralled with Boondock Pilgrims! 5/5 stars!
January 18, 2022
WTFranklin? You did it again.
Today I was a book worm. I kicked back in my reading chair and enjoyed a fun read. I believe if I was in the middle of an apocalypse, I would want to hang with the over achiever stoners. Five hours, a bowl of popcorn and two pots of coffee I spent the most delightful time reading. How can four people get themselves tangled into so many shenanigans and walk away smelling like a rose? Why Dan's positive outlook on life.
Definitely recommend this book and the whole series.
Today I was a book worm. I kicked back in my reading chair and enjoyed a fun read. I believe if I was in the middle of an apocalypse, I would want to hang with the over achiever stoners. Five hours, a bowl of popcorn and two pots of coffee I spent the most delightful time reading. How can four people get themselves tangled into so many shenanigans and walk away smelling like a rose? Why Dan's positive outlook on life.
Definitely recommend this book and the whole series.
October 23, 2022
Entertaining Series Continues
Dan is often exasperating even to the reader, but his chosen philosophy is pertinent to his circumstances. The storyline is at times intense and at other times pure fun. The story location is vividly described, and the characters are mostly likeable and well developed. Considering that this was the third book in the series, I believe there was too much story background presented at the beginning of the book, thus only 4 stars. As some issues were left hanging, I assume there will be another book. I certainly hope so!
Dan is often exasperating even to the reader, but his chosen philosophy is pertinent to his circumstances. The storyline is at times intense and at other times pure fun. The story location is vividly described, and the characters are mostly likeable and well developed. Considering that this was the third book in the series, I believe there was too much story background presented at the beginning of the book, thus only 4 stars. As some issues were left hanging, I assume there will be another book. I certainly hope so!
February 3, 2022
More fun Dan Action
I really like all the series by this author. Way of Dan is a little more light hearted than the rest. Not that they don’t have plenty of moments as well, but WoD, even with killing involved, just seems more light hearted and fun. In Boondocks Pilgrims, we get more of that, with a little bit of the supernatural mixed in. I’m looking forward to reading more about Dan and the gang!
I really like all the series by this author. Way of Dan is a little more light hearted than the rest. Not that they don’t have plenty of moments as well, but WoD, even with killing involved, just seems more light hearted and fun. In Boondocks Pilgrims, we get more of that, with a little bit of the supernatural mixed in. I’m looking forward to reading more about Dan and the gang!
March 31, 2022
2.5 stars. I'm hoping this series isn't going off the rails. Too much of Boondock Pilgrims was driven by people making stupid decisions. (I much prefer books about smart people.) Bird is so much of an idiot, that I actually wanted for bad things happen to him. Also, fingers crossed that we didn't just read the setup for a super-villain in future books of this series. I'll be pulling the plug really fast if this even drifts in that direction.
April 5, 2022
What I liked about the previous entries in this series was that the author avoided the superduper evil villain dictator type that shows up and wants it all for himself. And that doesn't quite happen here. It's a herself that shows up, and for that I commend the author, but it's still kind of a cheap plot trick and a disappointment. Horton's writing is engaging and fun as always, though. Worth reading.
December 5, 2025
Holly is critical of Dan whenever she opens her mouth. In the previous book she was sometimes critical but she also laughed at his comments. In this book her laughter has becomes eyerolling. No wonder Dan is a total stoner. I started this book with the hope that Holly would become more accepting of Dan but that didn't happen. Her verbal abuse was constant. I just can't go on with this series hoping that Holly beomes less critical and that Dan lessons his craving for pot.
January 21, 2022
Another excellent book in the Way of Dan. We got a new glimpse of just how insane Kyle was with his collection below the bedroom. Dan and Holly have it together but I'm afraid Krin and Bird need to resolve their survival skills.
Dan's speach to the group at the end spells it out exactly how society has gone off the rails. We need a lot more nature and a lot less technology.
Thankyou, Franklin.
Dan's speach to the group at the end spells it out exactly how society has gone off the rails. We need a lot more nature and a lot less technology.
Thankyou, Franklin.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 22, 2022
Boondock Pilgrims. Franklin Horton
Holly, Dan, Bird and Erin have managed to survive a world of utter chaos. They have had to defend themselves against tremendous odds against them. In the end they have managed to grasp their situation and realize they can and will survive as a team. An excellent read!! Enjoyed immensely!! My highest recommendation!!
Holly, Dan, Bird and Erin have managed to survive a world of utter chaos. They have had to defend themselves against tremendous odds against them. In the end they have managed to grasp their situation and realize they can and will survive as a team. An excellent read!! Enjoyed immensely!! My highest recommendation!!
January 27, 2022
Incredible!
Franklin Horton is a master. He incorporates preparing for disaster, an incredibly accurate, sobering, view of where our society is today and why, party animals & hippies from the 60ties & 70ties, southern fried rock, incredible humor, constant action, pagans in an unbelievable setting in the Idaho mountains. Great work!! This is a must read.
Franklin Horton is a master. He incorporates preparing for disaster, an incredibly accurate, sobering, view of where our society is today and why, party animals & hippies from the 60ties & 70ties, southern fried rock, incredible humor, constant action, pagans in an unbelievable setting in the Idaho mountains. Great work!! This is a must read.
April 7, 2022
Interesting characters written in a generally relatable and enjoyable way. But... The author just kept throwing too much at them. It's a stretch that they keep surviving the rough stuff coming their way as relatively believable people. But that it just keeps coming too? Took my credulity and interest and ground it to dust.
September 20, 2022
What a story!
There are better than Franklin Horton at writing this genre of books. His characters are actually human and easy to believe. The storylines are well laid out and f!ow well.
I must admit, I normally didn't read post emp books until I accidentally found one of his and thought to give it a try. You will not be disappointed reading anything Horton has written.
There are better than Franklin Horton at writing this genre of books. His characters are actually human and easy to believe. The storylines are well laid out and f!ow well.
I must admit, I normally didn't read post emp books until I accidentally found one of his and thought to give it a try. You will not be disappointed reading anything Horton has written.
April 29, 2024
Wow
1 of my biggest complaints About books Movies and TV is half the time I can predict what is going to happen next. It's boring when that happen you want to be surprised And I was really surprised At the way This This turned I couldn't quit reading. And I agree with the way of the Dan.
1 of my biggest complaints About books Movies and TV is half the time I can predict what is going to happen next. It's boring when that happen you want to be surprised And I was really surprised At the way This This turned I couldn't quit reading. And I agree with the way of the Dan.
July 4, 2024
Poison Ivy
Life was hard enough but then they got “Poison Ivy”… a Pagan Priestess with an evil heart. The Way of Dan makes sense sometimes and other times it’s the rant of a pothead. Either way once Poison Ivy came creeping around life got harder. I know she will be back soon creeping around everywhere again. Life’s not easy in the apocalypse.
Life was hard enough but then they got “Poison Ivy”… a Pagan Priestess with an evil heart. The Way of Dan makes sense sometimes and other times it’s the rant of a pothead. Either way once Poison Ivy came creeping around life got harder. I know she will be back soon creeping around everywhere again. Life’s not easy in the apocalypse.
January 23, 2022
Dan spreads his knowledge
This one definitely is a page turner. The action is fast paced, exciting and keeps you reading. The addition of a new character definitely takes things up several notches. Well written and a great read.
This one definitely is a page turner. The action is fast paced, exciting and keeps you reading. The addition of a new character definitely takes things up several notches. Well written and a great read.
January 26, 2022
Loved
I loved this book by Franklin Horton. I also loved the characters. I can’t wait for the next book in this series. I would recommend this book and all of this Franklin’s books. I listened to this book on audiobook.
I loved this book by Franklin Horton. I also loved the characters. I can’t wait for the next book in this series. I would recommend this book and all of this Franklin’s books. I listened to this book on audiobook.
January 26, 2022
great anti hero
Dan is so much different than Franklin Hortons other main characters. He is great. Very real. Most can relate. This is an excellent series. Read this please, you will not be disappointed
Dan is so much different than Franklin Hortons other main characters. He is great. Very real. Most can relate. This is an excellent series. Read this please, you will not be disappointed
February 2, 2022
This series keeps getting better, I have read Mr. Horton's other books and found them just as entert
What a great story , kept me glued to the pages forever seems like. I hope he keeps getting better and better
What a great story , kept me glued to the pages forever seems like. I hope he keeps getting better and better
August 9, 2023
I could not read goofball inc. anymore
Too many stupid decisions by various characters just to move the plot along became tiresome.
Not horrible writing, so keep trying. Best of luck!
Too many stupid decisions by various characters just to move the plot along became tiresome.
Not horrible writing, so keep trying. Best of luck!
June 2, 2025
A lot to take in but on what a fun read!
Lots of action and some very deep thoughts on what mankind has become. I have really enjoyed this series of books and fell sorry for people who don't have an open mind about reading. I hope you enjoy this as much as I have.
Lots of action and some very deep thoughts on what mankind has become. I have really enjoyed this series of books and fell sorry for people who don't have an open mind about reading. I hope you enjoy this as much as I have.
January 22, 2022
Oh Dan
I think that Dan has to be one of my all time favorite characters. Great story, can't wait for the next one.
I think that Dan has to be one of my all time favorite characters. Great story, can't wait for the next one.
January 31, 2022
enjoyable series
I’m liking this series. Some wrong words in places, and that makes me go back and reread the sentence to try to make sense of it, some typos, but I like the story…
I’m liking this series. Some wrong words in places, and that makes me go back and reread the sentence to try to make sense of it, some typos, but I like the story…
January 31, 2022
Horton delivers thrills and chills, joy and disappointment, along with a great cliffhanger. Another great series!
February 5, 2022
A twisted tale of survival
The twists and turns of this story make it very difficult to put down. Another great book by Franklin Horton. I'm looking forward to where this goes next.
The twists and turns of this story make it very difficult to put down. Another great book by Franklin Horton. I'm looking forward to where this goes next.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews