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Dark Titan #1

Dark Titan Journey

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Nathan Owens is a reserve officer for the sheriff’s department, as well as a part-time ER nurse at the local hospital. He is also a founding member of a prepper group, twenty-two families strong, that formed an LLC and bought a thousand acres on the northern Idaho-Montana border. They use it for a hunting ranch, but it’s really their bug-out area.

While out of town on business, Nathan is alerted by his friend and fellow prepper, Tim, that the government has called an alert for all forces, even those overseas. Hours later, the Earth is hit with a coronal mass ejection. The CME is rated a Z-class and numbers put it a hundred times as massive as the Carrington event of 1859. The CME causes several orbiting satellites, carrying plutonium or uranium, to detonate. The electromagnetic pulses that result throw the world into chaos. Planes plummet from the sky, and massive explosions fill the air.

Now Nathan and a group of locals must band together to survive the aftermath of the apocalyptic event. His number one priority is to get on the road and get back to his prepper family: a journey of 2,600 miles—on foot now that the EMPs have knocked out most modern modes of transportation. However, Nathan’s conscience dictates that he arm the group with weapons and sufficient knowledge so they may survive on their own. Over the course of those first few crucial days, he does just that—in the process making lifelong friendships.

Join us on Nathan’s journey home.

226 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 9, 2014

120 people are currently reading
269 people want to read

About the author

Thomas A. Watson

54 books208 followers
Thomas A Watson was born in Bossier City, Louisiana, in 1970, and grew up in Doyline, Louisiana and Grenada, Mississippi. He was the assistant manager of W.C. Plastics in Grenada Mississippi for several years before joining the U.S Army, he was stationed at Bad Hersfeld, Germany. After serving fours years in the Army, he returned to W.C. Plastics where he was the acting manager for four years.

He attended Holmes Community College in the evenings while working at W.C Plastics, taking core classes. He moved back to Bossier City area to be closer to his and his wife's family and attended Northwestern State University in Shreveport, Louisiana, earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. After working 10 years as an emergency room nurse in and around Shreveport, he and his wife and two children, moved to Missoula, Montana.

Watson, meet his wife Tina in Grenada, Mississippi, they will celebrate 25 years of marriage in May of 2015. They have three children, Nicholas, Khristian and Phillip. Watson, penned his first book in January of 2012, after moving to Missoula, Montana. His parents, Larry Watson and Kay Boykin, instilled the love of reading at a very early age. He has read and enjoyed most genres. His first published book Blue Plague: The Fall was released on Amazon and Createspace in August 2012.

Watson, signed a publishing contract with Winlock Press a division of Permuted Press in December of 2014. His Blue Plague series and Dark Titan series will be re-released in 2015 under Winlock Press.

Also in 2015 from Amazon self-publishing, his newest Thanos: Dawn of Man, a fantasy series.

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5 stars
491 (57%)
4 stars
209 (24%)
3 stars
104 (12%)
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20 (2%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
Profile Image for Chessy The Cat.
340 reviews28 followers
January 8, 2018
Nathan Owens is on his way back to Idaho from Atlanta when a super coronal mass ejection hit the Earth and multiple orbital satellites with nuclear warheads exploded in the upper atmosphere. He and his friends in Idaho have been preparing for a disaster for years and have a bugout compound. Nathan’s survival skills with be put to the test repeatedly as he readies himself for the long journey home.

Watson’s first novel in the Dark Titan Journey series, Sanctioned Catastrophe, showcases the knowledge Nathan has acquired over the years. He does everything in his power to help those around him before he takes off. Civilization devolves into chaos quickly and it’s either kill or be killed.

I enjoyed this book and learned a lot I needed to know and practice to help survive any type of disaster. Situational awareness is critical to keeping others from taking what is yours. Knowing how to survive off the land when food becomes scarce ranks right up there too. But, one of the most important bits of information I gathered is that if you can’t protect it and yourself you will perish. This book is very well written and edited.

The blurb “Soon the radioactive fallout from space would spread death and disease across the globe.” was never discussed or addressed throughout the series. So, I’m not sure why it is mentioned.

If there is anything to dislike about this book it is the following exchange:
“I can never repay you for what you’ve done for me and my family,” Brad told him.
Looking over at Abigail, Nathan said, trying not to blush, “We’re even, trust me.”
“I know about it and no, we’re not,” Brad said, smiling.
The reference here is that Nathan has had sex with Brad’s wife Abigail. Nathan reduces Abigail to nothing more than a commodity to be traded. And, Brad reduces her even more by saying she wasn’t worth enough. There are plenty of horrific things that happen in this book due to the depravity of mankind. But, this made me mad.

That being said, I highly recommend this book. It is useful not only as a great story but as a beginner’s guide to prepping.

5 out of 5 stars.
Profile Image for Pam Shelton-Anderson.
1,955 reviews65 followers
October 27, 2016
Nathan, the main character, has spent a lot of time with his friends in Idaho preparing for disaster, yet when his friend there tries to communicate that "something" is happening, he is skeptical. Stranded very far away, he seems in no particular hurry to try to get home, but spends his time playing Santa Claus/Captain America in the small community where his car stopped. They all immediately accept him as all-knowing with no real skepticism. Nathan is at his best interacting with his dog (who should be the boss) and the two kids. The journey doesn't actually start until the end. Not the best book I've read recently, but now I want to know what happens to them. Dang!
17 reviews
March 31, 2016
Nathan and his dog are way to smart to be interesting but I will probably read book 2 to see what happens. He would be much more believable if he didn't seem to know everything.
Profile Image for Tracey Mccall.
355 reviews8 followers
March 6, 2019
I'm hooked

I need a Nathan in my life.! I was hooked on this book by the second chapter. Well written storyline with amazing characters I can't wait to read more
Profile Image for Nathan Miller.
555 reviews
April 21, 2015
I wanted to give this book a fourth star, for no other reason than that it appears to be the author's first novel and for the same reason, I didn't give it two stars. Novel-writing isn't easy, so this book isn't bad for a first work. Most importantly, I feel all the problems could be fixed without the dreaded Page-1 Rewrite.

First, things I liked.
Watson has clearly paid a lot of attention to firearms, doomsday prepping, the probable effects of an EMP on a power grid, and related topics and this shows up strongly throughout the book. He paid a lot of attention to his main character's back-story. The interaction between the MC, his dog, and the girl he meets I found endearing. And, of course, the apocalyptic SHtF element.

Second, things I didn't like or otherwise felt needed some improvement or other attention.
The story is told from the MC's POV, but in several places abruptly but briefly jumps to other characters' POV. He didn't do it often, but it was a little distracting when he did and I think Watson missed an opportunity to take advantage of the tool of POV.
The book is subtitled "Journey," yet we're a good three-quarters of the way through the book before any journeying begins. The remainder takes place at a truck stop where the MC has stopped for gas when the EMP strikes. I'm not sure if many of the plot points at the truck stop needed to be omitted, but it often felt like Watson was giving a blow-by-blow account of pretty much everything. The pacing could have been improved by compressing a lot of this--enter a scene as late as possible and leave it as early as possible is a good bit of advice that I think Watson could employ.
He does a little more telling than showing. The MC's back-story was for me the most obvious example of that and I think it might have worked better if bits and pieces of that were brought out here and there throughout the book. And revealing the nature of the crisis could have been more satisfying if the characters had to piece it together.
There seem to be too many characters at a time. Not that all of them don't contribute to the story, but it might have been more satisfying to spread them out geographically and chronologically.
Most of all, though, I was having a hard time trying to figure out what sort of person the MC was supposed to be. His actions seemed erratic, at least to the extent that he just sort of did things, things that didn't seem grounded in the character or motivated by external forces. Why does he help some people, but just abruptly shoot others--which in a few cases is kind of obvious, but no so much in others--those actions could have been more effective if driven by the plot. Other decisions, like how he handles money, were just kind of confusing. He also seemed a bit over-prepared, which I guess might be consistent with the Prepper mindset, but it still seemed like overkill.
This part of the story also ends at a point that doesn't feel like a natural break.

I might read the next installment, both to find out if Watson's writing has improved, and because I'm kind of a completist.
Profile Image for Marie.
304 reviews3 followers
July 11, 2015
I'm one of many who'd read the Blue Plague series and hoping for the epilogue book "Hope" so I decided to start this new series because
1. I like a lot how the author wraps characters, funny situations, delirious comments and a lot of packed actions.
2. Saw it was a two books released to start a new series (I'm realy not that patient)and since I appreciated so much the Blue plague I wanted to stat this one right away.

Well.....can't say I love it because a lot of things are missing : more than 200 pages to get the main character ready to go (why was he procrastining for days at the truck/diner/station ?) and then in the beginning to be a boy scout and help people like this ?! He's not a priest not even close... so it gets interesting once he decided to move on with Buffy-aka-Amanda (?! rings bells ?)

I'm digging right now in Book 2
Profile Image for Mary.
272 reviews15 followers
September 15, 2017
As an Avid Fan of The Blue Plague series. I was excited. To read this book. I loved it the first Time. I bought it. I loved it the second time, I bought it. I love both covers. And I have several time bought multiple copies of the same book, because I believe in supporting my Favorite Authors. Yes there was a mistake in the Pre-order. But, Mr. Thomas Watson is a full time, over worked, under paid health care worker. He writes on his days off. Please know that they are doing everything to make this right. Being called nasty names isn't okay. I truly look forward to the next books coming out whether re-release or edited or new.
That's Great! and Thank You.
you are welcome
Chat Conversation End
Profile Image for Eila.
Author 3 books5 followers
November 5, 2014
This is the first book by Thomas Watson that I've read. I enjoyed the laid-back style of writing he uses. The story captured my attention right from the start and I found it difficult to put down. I read the entire story in a day. There was a little lag in the story about a quarter of the way through but by the last half, it picked up again and I liked it even better than the first part of the book. The story is informative, but in an entertaining way. The main character is very likable and a little quirky. The interactions he has with his dog and others around him is often light-hearted and humorous. I will definitely read the second book when it comes out!
146 reviews7 followers
July 8, 2020
I did not know at times if I was reading a romance book or a post-apocalyptic book. The main character comes across as a hero, adonis type who's hard as nails, unbelievably generous and loved by all the good guys (especially the women).

Some of the dialogue has some of the most ridiculous interactions I have ever read and is so over the top it actually started to make me laugh....alot.

So why did I give 3 stars, I am not sure, but I am still chucling away and intend to read the follow up book for more of the same.
Profile Image for Ralph.
96 reviews42 followers
May 11, 2019
Juvenile at best
Profile Image for Britta Grissom.
22 reviews2 followers
March 11, 2015
I stayed up until 3 am reading Thomas Watsons Dark Titan!! Wow, this book took me by Surprise. I Love how easy it was to fall in Love with Nathan, and quite frankly Everyone at the Truck Stop. ( Please don't tell me it's over for them!!!)This is my 1st Hardcore Prep. Book and I loved every sleep stealing minute of it!!! Bring on book 2!!!!
Profile Image for Esmeralda.
448 reviews22 followers
August 4, 2022
I find so many things wrong (or that I don’t like) in this book. And still 😁😆
I also find it, entertaining, addictive and fun! (Wait..what?😂😂 ).
Please don’t ask, I wouldn’t have an answer for you..
Of course this was the audiobook edition and let me tell you, the narrator was kind of ..awful. Yep.
3 reviews2 followers
May 13, 2018
Too much gratuitous violence. Loved the dog, but the protagonist is a know-it-all that seems grumpy all the time. Gets worse in parts 2 and 3 with really a lot of violence and a lot of annoying dialogues, mostly nagging and arguing.
Profile Image for angie brisbin.
4 reviews
November 28, 2014
Page turner

Love it! Kept me glued to its pages...where is the next book in this series? You left it hanging ..argh
12 reviews
November 7, 2017
This book scares the hell of me.

I have read a lot of books the requires suspension of disbelief and though I am sure many may disagree I fill the plot in this book or something similar is entirely possible.
Please note, I'm lumping all three of the books in this series into one review.
If for some reason you have found his review and still have no idea what the series is about I'll give you a quick refresher.

Coronal mass ejection. EMP. Nathan the protagonist is stranded in GA and needs to make his way to Idaho. Enter project Dark Titan where the goverment has decided to cull the population of all but the most docile sheep and even a large number of them. While making he way to Idaho, Nathan picks up a group of children and more toys then should be allowed by law.

I think this book can be read on several levels. It has action and a good plot. On a different level one could read about how Americans have so many rights but willingly give them up until we live in a welfare state. Then when the killing starts who are the good guys? The elected officials and rightful military or the people that are rebelling in order to serve and protect the population.

So I did find the to be a very enjoyable series. Not perfect by any means but very enjoyable....I mean if this guy was as educated about disasters, why was he driving a truck that was able to be taken out by an EMP. Or at least he should have had the parts to repair the truck. Also, Nathan seemed to like killing and mutilating the "bad guys" and this runs counter to all that we expect from the "good guy." Is his still a "good guy" and if so why? I think the author does a great job of showing you how the "bad guy" may just be someone protecting what is theirs and how the "good guys" would do the same in a similar situation.

The book may not appeal to the more liberal minded out there. But if you own a gun and have a job I expect you'd like this book.

Without reservations I would recommend this series. Love it or hate it, I think you owe it to yourself and your family to read the book. (Too over the top?)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for RJ.
2,044 reviews13 followers
February 13, 2017
Our protagonist Nathan Owens is on his way home to Idaho from Atlanta, Georgia when a massive CME (Coronal Mass Event) strikes earth frying electronics and the grid via EMP. Nathan had stopped for gas at a truck stop when the CME struck. To be objective our boy Nathan is one over-prepared, over-equipped, over-trained, over-strapped, over-financed, and over-protected individual. Never before have I seen one character more prepared for an apocalypse. Having said that, the author still makes the character personable and almost completely unassuming. There were a couple slips when money, or the lack of it, raised its ugly little head, but for the vast majority you almost have to like Nathan. From the first few minutes Nathan enters the truck stop he begins helping people. And this endeavor continues throughout the book without much explanation as to why or where this generosity comes from. One may say that cash will soon become worthless in an apocalypse situation and it’s better to make use of it quickly, but that only accounts for the cash. Nathan takes the employees of the truck stop, who are complete strangers, under his wing by educating, equipping, and protecting them as if they were longtime friends. Granted, this is admirable behavior, although I cannot help but wonder how realistic this is. I wish I had a friend such as Nathan. Eventually Nathan had to be on his way to get back to his farm and friends, which amounted to a two thousand mile trip. Nathan chose to walk home with a pack weighing over one hundred pounds. Seems to me acquiring an older vehicle while siphoning gas would have been a more logical and definitely quicker method of travel. Nathan says his good-byes and heads out.
32 reviews1 follower
January 9, 2020
I absolutely loved this book. It starts quickly and drew me in immediately. The characters are well-developed, the action is fast and sometimes pretty dramatic, yet I found myself laughing at several points.

Nathan, who is a nurse and a sheriff, finds himself in Georgia when an EMP leaves him stranded on foot, with his dog Ares. He is part of a prepper group, but they are in Idaho. He bands together with the people where he is at when the EMP hits and helps them try to survive immediately and teach them to continue to survive after he leaves, because he plans to make it back to his friends.

This is the first book in a series and it looks like it will be an excellent series, I am starting on the next book - Wilderness Travel.
Profile Image for Kristie hunter.
94 reviews
December 17, 2016
What A Hero

Nathan and his dog Ares is just trying to get home out West from Atlanta, when the world is hit with a massive EMP. Instead of only thinking of himself, he sets up his new group of friends that he meets at a truck stop. Now, he has two young wards to look after and teach on the 2,000 plus miles to his home. He is definitely the kind of man you'd want on your side in an apocalypse.
Profile Image for Ford Miller.
713 reviews6 followers
July 26, 2023
An enjoyable book on a what-if topic!

Really enjoyed the book. It was short but the Main Character was likeable and the dialogue was good. Got strange on his fascination with large men and the gushing over it. Just was over done. Liked the ending as the MC picked up two supporting cast that are interesting.
Enjoyed this as it was fast and easy, or a simple read. I look forward to the second book.
Profile Image for Cody.
20 reviews
January 21, 2024
I wanted to like it, but didn't really care for the MC.
He seems like the ultimate Gary Stu.
Who goes around with a money belt with gold coins?
Running with 137 lbs pack?
20 grand worth of gear in the suburban for a work trip?

The story would have been a lot more interesting with room for character development.
One and Done.
6 reviews
Read
June 21, 2021
Bought these novels on my phone, i have finished all 4 of them, Waiting for the 5th book. Hopeful there will be one. I loved series i would 110% recommend if you haven't read it. Please sit back and enjoy an action packed adventure.
2 reviews
January 2, 2022
Has it all

It has not only the real side of what people could be like in something like this but also has some funny stuff and some not so probable things. It has real life stuff and perfect make believe. I love it and IMO is a great start to a series.
Profile Image for H. Alvarez.
Author 3 books13 followers
Read
May 27, 2024
Lo empecé con un lote del mismo contenido y lo he vuelto a retomar hace poco. Ofrece lo que tiene. Los personajes son lo principal, porque el entorno es el previsible. Al acabarlo, quise continuar con ellos porque es ameno.
Profile Image for Amit Singh.
4 reviews
March 13, 2018
One of the best post-ap, survival and action novels there is. Best part about it is the light it shines on some dark aspects of society, that are entirely too realistic.
25 reviews
March 27, 2018
Loved it!

I loved this book. Thomas A. Watson has a way with words and a great sense of humor. Can't wait for more.
134 reviews2 followers
July 18, 2018
This book has everything a teenage boy could want, except fart jokes.
16 reviews
October 31, 2018
Good read

Liked it so much I've read it twice. After the crap hits the fan people turned bad quickly. If you like end of the world as we know it books this series is a great read
Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews

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