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DISPATCHES:

On August 19, 2019, a rogue Chinese military cabal launched an opportunistic EMP attack against the United States, triggering a cataclysmic chain of events-- with the potential to change world forever.

With the United States crippled, belligerent powers rise to fill the void overseas, catapulting already volatile regions into chaos and war-- hastening a worldwide collapse.

On the home front , most citizens continue to struggle with the loss of power and critical infrastructure, exhausting their thin supplies and turning to the mercy of an overwhelmed government to survive the winter.

As spring arrives, Alex Fletcher faces a difficult choice. With their food supplies running low, Alex questions the feasibility of staying with the Thorntons and Walkers at their isolated lake community. While searching northern Maine for a solution to his dilemma-- he stumbles on a secret with the potential to destabilize the entire region.

Dispatches concludes The Perseid Collapse Series, answering reader questions about the world scene, while cleanly delivering the Fletcher's fate.

227 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 14, 2015

1336 people are currently reading
541 people want to read

About the author

Steven Konkoly

70 books1,230 followers
Steven graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1993, receiving a bachelor of science in English literature. He served the next eight years on active duty, traveling the world as a naval officer assigned to various Navy and Marine Corps units. His extensive journey spanned the globe, including a two-year tour of duty in Japan and travel to more than twenty countries throughout Asia and the Middle East.

From enforcing United Nations sanctions against Iraq as a maritime boarding officer in the Arabian Gulf, to directing aircraft bombing runs and naval gunfire strikes as a Forward Air Controller (FAC) assigned to a specialized Marine Corps unit, Steven's "in-house" experience with a wide range of regular and elite military units brings a unique authenticity to his thrillers.

He still wakes up at "zero dark thirty" to write for most of the day. When "off duty," he spends as much time as possible outdoors or travelling with his family--and dog.

Steven is the bestselling author of ten novels and several novellas, including a commissioned trilogy of novellas based on the popular Wayward Pines series. His canon of work includes the popular Black Flagged Series, a gritty, no-holds barred covert operations and espionage saga; The Perseid Collapse series, a post-apocalyptic thriller epic chronicling the events surrounding an inconceivable attack on the United States; and The Fractured State series, a near future, dystopian thriller trilogy set in the drought ravaged southwest

You can contact Steven directly by email (stevekonkoly@striblingmedia.com) or through his blog (www.stevenkonkoly.com).

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5 stars
1,084 (45%)
4 stars
840 (35%)
3 stars
374 (15%)
2 stars
66 (2%)
1 star
16 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews
Profile Image for Sean Fitzgerald.
Author 3 books1 follower
April 13, 2015
Alex Fletcher for Governor of Maine.

Another solid installment in the Fletcher universe. Keep up the good work Konkoky, you have a knack for drawing me into your stories. The Black Flagged series was an exciting read as well. I eagerly await your next book in any series.
Profile Image for Pamela Jo Mason.
367 reviews51 followers
September 12, 2025
Steven Konkoly is AMAZING!! The Alex Fletcher series ensnared me with the very first one, The Jakarta Pandemic. I really want a neighbor like Alex; maybe I’d think he was a little crazy, but maybe I’d take his advice and I’d definitely want his protection. I’d probably be much further ahead on my TBR if Konkoly hadn’t written such good books that I felt the need to go back to them time and time again.
Profile Image for RJ.
2,044 reviews13 followers
April 1, 2015
Book four says it's the conclusions of The Perseid Collapse series, but I'm not entirely convinced. Readers moved Konkoly to produce book four to resolve unanswered questions from the first three books. Book four answered many of those questions including the fate of the Fletcher family, but I can still see the fate of the nation and the Chinese in limbo. Book five Mr. Konkoly? This is a very good series with great characters and a steady flow. Well done.
12 reviews
May 5, 2015
Excellent read

The series would made one epic book....lots of military jargon that might be .easy for some...can see series continuing. Will most likely read again to see what I missed first time.
Profile Image for Soo.
2,928 reviews346 followers
August 30, 2019
Note:

Series should have ended with book 3. I only listened to the series because it was a bundle pack.
Profile Image for Bee Glosson.
46 reviews
December 21, 2018
Not impressed by this book at all. Its split into two different sides of the storyline. The first part being completely new characters from a completely different side of the story. Hard to get into these characters. Then half way through it drops you back into the original characters that carried you through the first 3 books. This booked was more of a novella than a novel. Too short. Not enough substance. I only give this book 2.5 stars because of the second half of the book. Otherwise I'm not impressed. Books 2 and 3 in this series are the best in the series. Sorry
68 reviews
December 8, 2020
A good series

Except for book one. This could really happen. And if it does who is going to run the country? Government, military, militia? . Where do you live, how do you eat?
Profile Image for Bettina  G. May.
11 reviews
April 24, 2015
Not as much fun as the first threeww

I excitedly pressed pre-order when I saw that another Steven Konkoly but was available, but this sequel to the Perseid Collapse trilogy has more than a few bumpy spots. Some of the most important plot points are confusing and poorly foreshadowed; the political background is not especially convincing. The author tells us the book deliberately contains two different stories, I think I would have enjoyed two separate books or one longer novel. I still really enjoyed revisiting characters from the first three books, and the glimpse into a world view so different from my own. I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a fast exciting read. If you enjoyed the Perseid Collapse novels this is an must read. Don't forget to check out the other stories in this series on Kindle World.
Profile Image for Joyce Robbins.
57 reviews
May 24, 2015
Setting up for book five

Still good, but not close to what the first three books were like, it's the talented writing that gets the three star rating.
While the first half of the book takes the reader to what is happening in other parts of the world, we wind up back in Maine with the Fletcher family and their neighbors. There is the prerequisites of a power struggle between two government agencies/officials, and between nature and man.
The author's talents for all things military gives us the gift of the ultimate car chase, one that would make Steve McQueen green with envy.
Would I recommend this book? Yes. As a stepping stone for the next book in his series, it sets up the foundation for the political power struggle that is occurring. The chase scene makes for good reading also, and the international struggles open the door for even more intriguing stories.
153 reviews2 followers
December 6, 2016
A must read for Apocalyptic/Dystopian EMP lovers!!!

I've read my share of reading books about Emp's, and I can truly say Steven Konkoly has done an incredible job in writing all four books in this series. I purposely held off writing a review until after reading book four, as I wanted to see where the story took us. Wow what a ride! The characters are absolutely believable, and you grow to feel like you're on the nightmarish tale with them. I'll always remember Alex and Kate Fletcher, their family and friends. If you've read ONE SECOND AFTER, and the sequel ONE YEAR LATER, you'll love Konkoly's books. Get them today, and you won't be disappointed. I'm actually hoping he does a fifth book in this series, telling us readers how things are progressing in this upturned world. A 5 star Bravo!!!!
Profile Image for Michael.
572 reviews8 followers
March 18, 2016
Plenty of post-apocalyptic action!

Having read this series from the beginning, it appears that the initial stages of the story could have been revisited. The asteroid's hitting the east coast and the launching of nuclear missiles in an apparent attempt to destroy it prior to impact, would have been a good topic to delve into further. The story seemed to show a disconnect with the other military actions taking place in other countries. The reader is left to wonder why these military actions are related. I read the Kindle version of these stories and found the editing and character development to be well done.
Profile Image for January.
258 reviews18 followers
May 24, 2015
Definitely edge of your seat thriller. Like others, though, I wonder if Part 1, which takes us to other parts of the world and the international situation, isn't a little out of place. Could there have been another way to give us the international situation without introducing us to new characters and places? Will definitely read more by Konkoly.
Profile Image for Beth Lemberg.
2 reviews
October 27, 2016
Good read

The series finale closes out a good read forthosewho enjoy survival scenarios. Alex and his family continue their post EMP journey in Maine. Still beset by militia forces, federal intervention, and Winter, Alex stands tall as an ex-Marine with a pragmatic heart of gold. I enjoyed the series and think you will too.
31 reviews
July 24, 2020
This series was outstanding

I read the entire thing in a week or two. It was worth the lack of sleep. The parallels to real life are more than creepy. Steven is an excellent author. His character development is refined and his storylines are made more realistic by his expert knowledge of the military and it's equipment.

Excellent read.
Profile Image for Les Mackay.
7 reviews
October 17, 2020
Rip roaring read

Not since reading the saga of the Courtney's when a teenager have I enjoyed such a fast paced, exciting story, I felt like a member of Alexs' group, being taken from one tight situation to another, great read, just finished book 5 , I've not been engrossed in a story like that for years, hopefully there's more to come from Alex and his extended family
Profile Image for Kenn Goslin.
800 reviews7 followers
April 28, 2020
I have never marathon read a 5book series before this one!!!

Join the Fletcher, Thorntons and Walkers during the worst Winter since the 'Event '. What will the Spring bring forward???
Profile Image for Ruthanne.
141 reviews
February 9, 2017
As a rule, I'm not big on end-of-the-world stories. This series kept me up late way to many nights, reading ahead to see what was next. Thoroughly enjoyed the series.
Profile Image for Charla.
106 reviews1 follower
February 28, 2017
Great read!!

From start to finish the epic tale of The Fletchers grabs and never lets go... not even in the end!!
19 reviews
October 16, 2017
Disappointing

Although the ending of this book was good the beginning was a slow read. To much unnecessary and irrelevant info in the first third of the book.
Profile Image for Katie Boden.
16 reviews1 follower
February 22, 2020
Another crazy ride!

Alex and his family can never seem to find peace. Action packed and fast paced. Great read. What's coming next?
Profile Image for Mary Ann.
2,746 reviews11 followers
July 30, 2020
You are about to keep your heart in your throat as you follow the families in this story and the demands made on all just to survive or will everyone?
Profile Image for Melanie .
326 reviews1 follower
October 30, 2020
At first I was of the impression that this book wasn't really needed but as I got a little further along, I appreciated it more. Great end to this series. I'll definitely read more by this author
Profile Image for Rachael Ashak-Benson.
358 reviews20 followers
December 2, 2018
DO NOT READ THIS BOOK!

Really - Don’t read this book!
If you are scoping out reviews to see if you should read this book ... as the 1st book you read in this series —- why??
Why start with the very last book in a series? Or only read that book?
Do yourself a great favor and go back to the prequel. Begin there. Then enjoy all that this fantastic story has to offer. It’s an awesome ride!

With that said .... I’ve written so many times in other reviews about Konkoly’s superb craftsmanship when it comes to bringing characters to life. The attachment- positive or negative - you form with characters and how that relationship invests you in the story. You’re hooked, basically. The perfect dialogue that just flows, and carries you along .. helping to create emotion. And there is so much emotion, all across the spectrum. I could, and have, gone on about each of these areas and more. The last point I do want to reiterate this time around is how Konkoly’s experience and expertise with military life adds authenticity to this story (and his other work). My absolute favorite is the Marines. They are spot-on, and so heartwarming.

Bottom line — this series shares a seat at the table with the other greats in the military apocalypse genre today.

Now, some additional thoughts ——- ;)
(No real spoilers.)
Konkoly mentions at the beginning of the book that there were some loose ends to tie up, therefore this book.
Well, I feel like after the “Big Picture” section there’s more loose ends now than a preschool class all wearing tie sneakers on gym day! Yes, I totally understand that giving snippets of what’s going on in different parts of the world, one after the other, covered a ton of ground quickly. And it got the “big picture” job done.
But .... I’m left .... adrift.
For instance, the first family. What happens to them?? The author’s phenomenal character development skills come into play, and as a reader, I’m quickly immersed in the story, as well as totally invested in the characters. ..... But then... we never get to hear from them again?
I’m dying to know what happens to them next. What does their journey entail? The characters are so incredibly interesting in relation to their situation and setting! I find myself doing whatever throughout the course of my day and that family crosses my mind. Niggling at me. Great idea for a spin-off book.
Then there are the Fletcher “kids.” “Kids” which include Ryan and Chloe. Who are aged what now? 25/26? Yet are still referred to and treated like “kids” in this story, and still with a “secret” relationship. As we left the whole crew this time - no shock here that everyone remains pretty much living together/near each other. The “kids” with their respective parents.
So - what is the future for the kids? Just settle into homesteading? Gardening, canning, hunting and fishing? Sneaking off into the woods here and there when the parents aren’t paying attention??
Seems pretty ..... unrealistic.
Realistic for Ed and Charlie and their wives. And even Kate. But for adults in their mid-20’s?
There was one point in the story where Alex thought with some form of regret that Ryan, “would have made a great Marine officer.” And I thought FOR SURE that was some sort of foreshadowing.
Thus.... another spin-off book idea. Ryan and Chloe focused. Of course with a little Alex sprinkled in, because we all know he’s not really a “sit in your rocker in your 40’s” type either. ;)
Just a couple ideas Mr. Konkoly....... if you ever get bored or suffer from writer’s block. lol :)
Profile Image for Frieda Thompson.
390 reviews6 followers
June 20, 2024
Dispatches

The last of the 5 Alex Fletcher series. I was flummoxed by the first few chapters as they had no direct tie to the storylines of the previous 4 books. I was about to give up hope when it finally returned to Maine, USA. These initial chapters were never revisited, so as far as I am concerned we're totally superfluous. The rest of the book, however, tied up loose threads fairly well. I would have liked to read how the Maine families fared after the ambiguous "Peace" began. If this wasn't the final book, it would've been a great cliffhanger, but as the end of the end, it left me unsatisfied. As a whole, I enjoyed the extended storyline of the series very much... except for the, in my opinion, overly high focus on detailed information about weapons, ammo, & even vehicles. AND, of course for the blatant overuse of profanity! Again my opinion. If "cleaned up" this book, & the series as a whole, would be fantastic! As it stands it is only good. This is the only reason why I removed one star.
3 reviews
July 30, 2023
The series just gets better!

Having read all of Steven Konkoly’s books prior to the Alex Fletcher series I didn’t know what to expect given some negative reviews.

After a slow burn of a start this series just got better and better. Steven knows how build the tension and his knowledge of post-apocalyptic survival tactics is supreme. Yes, you have to suspend disbelief but not doing that would be boring!

I loved the Alex Fletcher books and if you haven’t read any of his other books then you are in for a treat. I’m just sorry to have come to the end of reading books written by a very talented author whose grammar is good and imagination is terrific.
414 reviews1 follower
June 26, 2018
Decisions to make....

Big picture - world order collapsing, small picture - the Fletcher family and their extended family of friends are trying to make ends meet through the winter and spring. Maine's governor doesn't recognize the RRZ, military is about coup against RRZ and Alex , his son - Ryan, Charlie and Ed are in a middle of a firefight with a paramilitary group. Will outcome be a good one for everyone?

Great series that leaves you wondering about future possibilities.

Jo-Ann Doyle
Profile Image for Kevin.
217 reviews11 followers
June 3, 2017
Exciting conclusion to the first series. Find out if the Fletcher family sails away, or is rolled over by the Recovery Zone forces. Who are the good guys with guns, and who isn't so good.
Just smart, fun reading for those who are and aren't prepared for that rainy day. Things get tough when it's raining Meteorites.

If you've read these Konkoly books from the beginning, be sure to check out all the other authors in this Perseid World.
Profile Image for Don.
1,027 reviews5 followers
June 26, 2018
First off you should read his other books first to better understand this. The first part of this book is no more than war over the globe- he doesn’t follow up with all the characters he introduces so why confuse the issue? Too many characters on too many fronts! Not worthy. If I didn’t read other reviews I probably would put this book down. The second part of the book is where it’s at and not the best story on its own
8 reviews
October 21, 2019
I love to read and I just finished the ALEX FLETCHER SERIES LOVED IT! When I can picture who the different characters are in my mind and feel how real you have made them to me it makes it very hard to put my kindle down great job LOVED the way you made everything they go thru so real to me. I'm actually thinking of ways to be ready with my small family for whatever happens in the future.Thank you for writing your story I enjoyed reading it stayed up all night sometimes .Great Job





Profile Image for Kylie Abecca.
Author 9 books42 followers
May 14, 2021
Yet another brilliant, enthralling novel, even though it is quite different to the earlier novels in the series. Alex tends to spend more time away from his family, taking the narrator with him, leaving the reader constantly sweating over the other characters, which I had developed a kinship of sorts with. That kinda did my head in, but overall the work is brilliant, the book is near impossible to put down, which is what every dedicated reader wants in a book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews

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