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Refuge
Not yet published
Expected 11 Aug 26Where do you go when no place is safe?
Born in El Salvador, raised in the United States, Miranda Flores is American to her core. Educated as well as street-smart, she makes close friends in her New Mexico community. But when nativist President Malcolm Price mandates subcutaneous identity chips in members of certain ethnic groups, the Flores family returns to the land of Miranda’s birth.
Years later, after losing her parents and brother during a bloody civil war in El Salvador, Miranda sneaks back into the U.S. There she encounters a country she no longer recognizes, with border “kill zones,” concentration camps, and roaming bands of paramilitary “Red Caps.” With a murderous government agent hot on her trail, Miranda must flee through a hostile landscape where every person she meets is a potential enemy.
Born in El Salvador, raised in the United States, Miranda Flores is American to her core. Educated as well as street-smart, she makes close friends in her New Mexico community. But when nativist President Malcolm Price mandates subcutaneous identity chips in members of certain ethnic groups, the Flores family returns to the land of Miranda’s birth.
Years later, after losing her parents and brother during a bloody civil war in El Salvador, Miranda sneaks back into the U.S. There she encounters a country she no longer recognizes, with border “kill zones,” concentration camps, and roaming bands of paramilitary “Red Caps.” With a murderous government agent hot on her trail, Miranda must flee through a hostile landscape where every person she meets is a potential enemy.
300 pages, Paperback
Expected publication August 11, 2026
16 people are currently reading
24 people want to read
About the author
Jeff Kerr
3 books18 followersThis author is also published under Jeffrey Stuart Kerr.
Jeff Kerr wasn’t born in Texas but says “y’all” like a native. He wrote a poem in the third grade that earned him a school prize, a book about the American flag. You’d think that would have inspired him to become a writer but that came later.
Jeff wrote and published his first book twenty years ago. He hadn’t planned on doing so until one night at the supper table his son interrupted a discourse about local history by saying, “Enough, Dad! Write a book.” Choosing to interpret a teenager’s flip remark as sage advice, he did. Six books later, he calls himself an author. So there.
When Jeff isn’t writing you can find him floating a Texas river or battling cedar on his small slice of Hill Country land. When he is writing, he stays busy by creating pulse-pounding crime thrillers that, according to one reader, “move along like a runaway locomotive.” Thank you, son.
Jeff Kerr wasn’t born in Texas but says “y’all” like a native. He wrote a poem in the third grade that earned him a school prize, a book about the American flag. You’d think that would have inspired him to become a writer but that came later.
Jeff wrote and published his first book twenty years ago. He hadn’t planned on doing so until one night at the supper table his son interrupted a discourse about local history by saying, “Enough, Dad! Write a book.” Choosing to interpret a teenager’s flip remark as sage advice, he did. Six books later, he calls himself an author. So there.
When Jeff isn’t writing you can find him floating a Texas river or battling cedar on his small slice of Hill Country land. When he is writing, he stays busy by creating pulse-pounding crime thrillers that, according to one reader, “move along like a runaway locomotive.” Thank you, son.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
July 22, 2023
Refuge is one of those books that’s impossible to put down. This book is a page-turner that hooks you from the first page. A dystopian thriller of Orwellian proportion. Big Brother is watching, and all that. But, unlike Orwell’s 1984, it’s believable. The tale that Kerr spins might be tomorrow’s news. Kerr creates a story world, a society that’s not all that different from the one we live in. A world populated with people so real they could have been people we know in life. Refuge is a work of fiction, but it’s also thought-provoking. It foreshadows what our near future may become if we aren’t careful.
The protagonists in this story are just ordinary people who find themselves facing off against an unjust society. As thrillers go, this one moves like a runaway freight train on a downhill incline. There’s murder and mayhem. There are more twists and turns in Refuge than in a sidewinders path across the desert sands. Refuge will keep you glued to the edge of your seat until you have read the last word. The way this story ends….well, all I’m going to say about that is that it ended in a way I didn’t expect.
If you only read one dystopian thriller this year, make it Refuge.
The protagonists in this story are just ordinary people who find themselves facing off against an unjust society. As thrillers go, this one moves like a runaway freight train on a downhill incline. There’s murder and mayhem. There are more twists and turns in Refuge than in a sidewinders path across the desert sands. Refuge will keep you glued to the edge of your seat until you have read the last word. The way this story ends….well, all I’m going to say about that is that it ended in a way I didn’t expect.
If you only read one dystopian thriller this year, make it Refuge.
June 18, 2023
I read an advance copy of this book. It was a bit out of my comfort zone, as there is a lot of violence, but I thought the story was very well-told, and it definitely holds your interest.
A young woman is fleeing from violence in her home country in Central America to the U.S. One terrible thing after another befalls her and her friends on the way and once she arrives. Cold-blooded cops, politicians and government operatives populate a dystopian future in a U.S. that sounds a little too familiar at times. Hmmmm.... But there are good guys, too, and you end up caring about them and hoping good wins over evil. There's even some romance and sex, too! (The sex seems a bit unrealistic at times, given the dire circumstances of the characters involved, but, hey, it's a story.)
A young woman is fleeing from violence in her home country in Central America to the U.S. One terrible thing after another befalls her and her friends on the way and once she arrives. Cold-blooded cops, politicians and government operatives populate a dystopian future in a U.S. that sounds a little too familiar at times. Hmmmm.... But there are good guys, too, and you end up caring about them and hoping good wins over evil. There's even some romance and sex, too! (The sex seems a bit unrealistic at times, given the dire circumstances of the characters involved, but, hey, it's a story.)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 1, 2024
Economic hardship forced Miranda Flores' family to leave Albuquerque, New Mexico, and return home. When her brother allied with the wrong people, the Salvadoran government ordered her family slaughtered. After fleeing her homeland, how will the city of her youth welcome her? Let's leap into Jeff Kerr's new novel Refuge and find out!
Story
Tragedy strikes after sneaking into the United States. Separated from her friend Fecundo, Miranda travels alone to Albuquerque. Yet cameras track her movements. Many people view all nonCaucasians—even U.S. citizens—with suspicion. She can't even purchase goods and services legally without an implanted microchip.
I wondered why Miranda and Fecundo chose to sneak into the United States in Jeff Kerr’s new novel Refuge. Wouldn’t it have been easier and safer to find another home—at least a temporary one—in another Central or South American country? For that matter, why not try Cuba, Jamaica, or the Bahamas? Ten years ago, Miranda's family got shafted by the system. The situation for illegal aliens living within U.S. borders has worsened since. Still, when you’ve got a gun against your head, you go with what you know, even if it’s grasping at straws. Miranda and Fecundo had friends and relatives in the U.S. Thus, their nightmare journey to the United States, which Jeff Kerr revealed in his stories "Death Train" and "Into The Fire," available at Bookfunnel.com.
Jeff Kerr paints the United States in broad strokes. From local law enforcement to the White House, all levels of government play a role. Politicians have partnered with White Supremacists and Anti-Immigrant coalitions. Ordinary citizens become watchdogs and often take the law into their own hands. Any non-Caucasian, at any time, can be rounded up for questioning, beaten, or sent to an internment camp. At times, I wished Jeff Kerr would have enhanced the dystopian future in Refuge with a more detailed history of how it came about. Yet that would have slowed the pace. And sadly, the seeds for this type of future are rooted in our history: our treatment of Japanese citizens during World War II; our distrust of Middle Eastern citizens following September 11, 2001; and the way many blamed Asians for the Covid-19 pandemic. Such examples of racial hatred, and the insurrection on January 6, 2021, ground Kerr’s dark vision.
He also draws his characters with precision in Refuge. They define themselves through their words and actions, and I never forgot who was who. As the story unfolds, we learn more about Miranda—the girl she was and the woman she's become. She meets people from her past, finds work, and makes friends and enemies. Yet the incident puts U.S. agents on her trail. She’s never safe. She’s always at risk.
The intense themes and fast pace dominate my recollection of the book. Still, while writing this review, my wife asked if Jeff reduced the tension with humor. When I shook my head, she said I'd often smiled or chuckled when reading Refuge. I can only assume that the interactions between Jeff's appealing and sympathetic characters were so truthful that I took heart from them. I rooted for Miranda—and hoped she could make a new life for herself—all the way through.
Final Thoughts
Grounded in historic and contemporary racial hatred and supported with nationalist and anti-immigrant zeal, Jeff Kerr's novel Refuge demonstrates how prejudice can fuel fascism and how delicate and precious democracy is.
Story
Tragedy strikes after sneaking into the United States. Separated from her friend Fecundo, Miranda travels alone to Albuquerque. Yet cameras track her movements. Many people view all nonCaucasians—even U.S. citizens—with suspicion. She can't even purchase goods and services legally without an implanted microchip.
I wondered why Miranda and Fecundo chose to sneak into the United States in Jeff Kerr’s new novel Refuge. Wouldn’t it have been easier and safer to find another home—at least a temporary one—in another Central or South American country? For that matter, why not try Cuba, Jamaica, or the Bahamas? Ten years ago, Miranda's family got shafted by the system. The situation for illegal aliens living within U.S. borders has worsened since. Still, when you’ve got a gun against your head, you go with what you know, even if it’s grasping at straws. Miranda and Fecundo had friends and relatives in the U.S. Thus, their nightmare journey to the United States, which Jeff Kerr revealed in his stories "Death Train" and "Into The Fire," available at Bookfunnel.com.
Jeff Kerr paints the United States in broad strokes. From local law enforcement to the White House, all levels of government play a role. Politicians have partnered with White Supremacists and Anti-Immigrant coalitions. Ordinary citizens become watchdogs and often take the law into their own hands. Any non-Caucasian, at any time, can be rounded up for questioning, beaten, or sent to an internment camp. At times, I wished Jeff Kerr would have enhanced the dystopian future in Refuge with a more detailed history of how it came about. Yet that would have slowed the pace. And sadly, the seeds for this type of future are rooted in our history: our treatment of Japanese citizens during World War II; our distrust of Middle Eastern citizens following September 11, 2001; and the way many blamed Asians for the Covid-19 pandemic. Such examples of racial hatred, and the insurrection on January 6, 2021, ground Kerr’s dark vision.
He also draws his characters with precision in Refuge. They define themselves through their words and actions, and I never forgot who was who. As the story unfolds, we learn more about Miranda—the girl she was and the woman she's become. She meets people from her past, finds work, and makes friends and enemies. Yet the incident puts U.S. agents on her trail. She’s never safe. She’s always at risk.
The intense themes and fast pace dominate my recollection of the book. Still, while writing this review, my wife asked if Jeff reduced the tension with humor. When I shook my head, she said I'd often smiled or chuckled when reading Refuge. I can only assume that the interactions between Jeff's appealing and sympathetic characters were so truthful that I took heart from them. I rooted for Miranda—and hoped she could make a new life for herself—all the way through.
Final Thoughts
Grounded in historic and contemporary racial hatred and supported with nationalist and anti-immigrant zeal, Jeff Kerr's novel Refuge demonstrates how prejudice can fuel fascism and how delicate and precious democracy is.
July 2, 2023
Refuge - Please realize this is a work of fiction, created by the author, which does not mean these events are not possible. An intriguing, suspense filled story about the USA falling victim to racism that reaches the presidency and laws are formed to evict or kill any one not of American birth. Of course, this is against non-European and Native Americans, whites are kosher. I found the racism extreme until I realized it was not present times but during a presidency that allows racism to run amuck and even murder is not a problem. The prequels are an interesting place to begin, and personally, they should have been the starting chapters. Well written with a variety of characters but too much vulgar language for me concerning some of the characters. 4*
First Case, prequel - Interesting introduction to Jodie, her friends and their histories, plus Jodie solving the murder of a close childhood friend. 4*
Miranda Flores - A character sketch of Miranda, partially used to give her more substance in The Refuge.
Into the Fire, prequel - The story of Miranda and her family's journey from El Salvador to New Mexico and back to El Salvador and Miranda's return journey to NM. 4*
Death Train, prequel - Miranda's journey from El Salvador to Mexico City with her final destination, New Mexico. 4*
End of the Line, prequel - Interesting introduction to Miranda, her family and their journeys between New Mexico and San Salvador. 4*
First Case, prequel - Interesting introduction to Jodie, her friends and their histories, plus Jodie solving the murder of a close childhood friend. 4*
Miranda Flores - A character sketch of Miranda, partially used to give her more substance in The Refuge.
Into the Fire, prequel - The story of Miranda and her family's journey from El Salvador to New Mexico and back to El Salvador and Miranda's return journey to NM. 4*
Death Train, prequel - Miranda's journey from El Salvador to Mexico City with her final destination, New Mexico. 4*
End of the Line, prequel - Interesting introduction to Miranda, her family and their journeys between New Mexico and San Salvador. 4*
October 14, 2023
Jeff Kerr's latest is an excellent read. I personally read mostly thrillers these days and Kerr's latest, Refuge, falls squarely in that genre. There are three prequel short stories available from the author that give some background to the protagonist's journey from El Salvador to the US-Mexico border and some interesting information on rookie FBI agent Layne.
Kerr's story is well thought out and structured. There are a few twists that keep Miranda Flores' journey interesting. I read the novel in two sittings. It is "hate to put it down" good. A real page turner.
Kerr presents a dark America in this novel. What is most frightening is the fact that it's a believable near-future America. Kerr has taken the strife and discord that exists in the US today and extrapolated to a hellish future that could be just a few years away.
Best of all Kerr is able to present a possible political future for the US without becoming "preachy" while he does it. There is no doubt who the bad guys are. From trigger happy border agents to red-cap rednecks to weasel like informers, Kerr's antagonists are believable because we've probably met some people just like them.
I give this book 5 bright and shining stars.
Kerr's story is well thought out and structured. There are a few twists that keep Miranda Flores' journey interesting. I read the novel in two sittings. It is "hate to put it down" good. A real page turner.
Kerr presents a dark America in this novel. What is most frightening is the fact that it's a believable near-future America. Kerr has taken the strife and discord that exists in the US today and extrapolated to a hellish future that could be just a few years away.
Best of all Kerr is able to present a possible political future for the US without becoming "preachy" while he does it. There is no doubt who the bad guys are. From trigger happy border agents to red-cap rednecks to weasel like informers, Kerr's antagonists are believable because we've probably met some people just like them.
I give this book 5 bright and shining stars.
June 17, 2023
'Refuge' by Jeff Kerr is a rare discovery – a book that successfully combines action and adventure with a genuinely thought-provoking narrative about our attitudes to outsiders. Set in a frighteningly plausible near-future, the story follows the gutsy and resourceful Miranda Flores as she crosses the border into the US to escape a war-torn El Salvador in search of a better life, only to find herself hunted by a cruel system that de-humanises ‘illegals’ and systematically destroys everyone she loves.
This is a story for our time - Kerr does not attempt to preach but lets the characters’ predicaments speak for themselves as they attempt to navigate hostile border guards, microchipped ids, internment camps and mass graves. Like ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ it paints a picture of a terrifying near-future America which feels close enough to touch.
Masterfully done with well-developed characters and action that moves along like a runaway locomotive – ‘Refuge’ is highly recommended. I am looking forward to reading more from this author.
This is a story for our time - Kerr does not attempt to preach but lets the characters’ predicaments speak for themselves as they attempt to navigate hostile border guards, microchipped ids, internment camps and mass graves. Like ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ it paints a picture of a terrifying near-future America which feels close enough to touch.
Masterfully done with well-developed characters and action that moves along like a runaway locomotive – ‘Refuge’ is highly recommended. I am looking forward to reading more from this author.
July 7, 2023
I received an ARC copy from the author. I can honestly say that at first I couldn't get into this book and decided to come back to it later. I'm glad I did. The author makes you feel like you are with the characters. I found myself getting so angry at the injustices being done to anyone not "born & raised " in USA or that have immigrant parents. It was scary. Racism is ugly and scary and I was behind the main characters al the way. I won't give anything away...get this book and read it. It may change your outlook on many things
July 16, 2023
This book saddened me and hurt my heart. How despicable we can be to other human beings shames me to the core. There are very good people in this book, bad people and others that are good but have a terrible job to do. I truly pray that this is not our future, but it could very well be true. Jeff Kerr has written an excellent book and as difficult as it may be to read it, you absolutely should.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
July 17, 2023
So much of this story could happen in the not to distant future. Events of the past few years show that. Very well written, with a sympathetic character in Miranda Flores. The action starts right away and really does not let up. I would hope that, as human beings, we would not let our prejudices lead us this far astray.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my honest opinion of the tale.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my honest opinion of the tale.
July 3, 2023
Miranda has had it bad. Friends and enemies alike are being killed around her.
This brand new author, Jeff Kerr, he is a wonderful writer. His suspenseful book had me jumping out of my seat, not knowing what was going to happen next. I really enjoyed reading this book. I am usually an all romance reader, but I love the twists and turns this book has to offer. It is a definite must-read.
This brand new author, Jeff Kerr, he is a wonderful writer. His suspenseful book had me jumping out of my seat, not knowing what was going to happen next. I really enjoyed reading this book. I am usually an all romance reader, but I love the twists and turns this book has to offer. It is a definite must-read.
September 12, 2023
Refuge is a bleak, near-future dystopian thriller with disturbing overtones pulled from American current events. Miranda Flores is a young woman, a second-generation immigrant. When the US government starts implanting devices (identity chips) into people to identify “true Americans,” her family returns to El Salvador. Eventually the situation in her home country deteriorates, and she pays a coyote to take her across the US-Mexico border.
Refuge should be read as a cautionary tale for what could become of America if we continue on our current path.
Refuge should be read as a cautionary tale for what could become of America if we continue on our current path.
July 27, 2024
So realistic. Look out for the future!!! If certain events happen in our near future, read this to see what is coming! This is a rewrite of 1984 for modern days. Very well written story that the reader gets immersed into with the characters. We run with them, hide with them just like we are part of the group! Recommended.
July 14, 2023
My first from this author and I found it to be a well written, tremendous read, edge of the seat action all the way through.
Great characters and an incredible story line.
A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. All of the above opinions are my own.
Great characters and an incredible story line.
A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. All of the above opinions are my own.
October 14, 2023
Gripping story
Gripping story of how a heroic woman overcomes the hate of a whole country without her heart being poisened with feelings of taking revanche for her suffering...
Gripping story of how a heroic woman overcomes the hate of a whole country without her heart being poisened with feelings of taking revanche for her suffering...
December 19, 2025
What a great book! Jeff Kerr has foreseen a dystopian America with frightening parallels today. Refuge is eminently readable, the story moves ahead apace with twists and turns that knock you for six. A really great read!
July 18, 2023
I received this novel through ARC, and this is my review. I'm not a fan of future stories. It was a wild read, fast paced, great character developed, and a convincing story line. I read it easily, stumbling in parts now and then. If you enjoy this genre, this will keep you interested. Loved Miranda, Salvador, there story was close to what is happening even today. Gave me a new prospect of the immigrant.
Very insightful.
Very insightful.
July 17, 2023
Definitely 4.5! One of my favorite genres written so well! Following Miranda and how all of the characters intertwined throughout this journey was interesting to read. Many twists I did not see coming and definitely a nice read
Want to thank the author for the ARC and note this review has been left voluntarily and all thoughts/opinions above are my own!
Want to thank the author for the ARC and note this review has been left voluntarily and all thoughts/opinions above are my own!
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews