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Junkyard Cats #5
Junkyard Riders: Shining Smith, Book 5
Shining Smith returns, taking on the “Dark Riders,” a paramilitary group motorcycle gang searching for Gov. political power, military connections, and alien tech. The Dark Riders are closing in on Shining’s secrets and, while she would rather nest in her new roadhouse, Shining must protect her own, once again taking the battle to the enemy.
Unfortunately, CAIT, the original AI on the junkyard’s crashed spaceship, has its own agenda buried in the ship’s code and choses this time to implement it. There is nothing Shining can do to stop it, except what she does best–plot an offensive, get her people in place, and hope Jolene can outsmart the virtual alter ego.
But the cataclysmic snow storm crashing in with all the power and subtlety of Mateo in his WarBot suit could be the end of them all.
Unfortunately, CAIT, the original AI on the junkyard’s crashed spaceship, has its own agenda buried in the ship’s code and choses this time to implement it. There is nothing Shining can do to stop it, except what she does best–plot an offensive, get her people in place, and hope Jolene can outsmart the virtual alter ego.
But the cataclysmic snow storm crashing in with all the power and subtlety of Mateo in his WarBot suit could be the end of them all.
Audible Audio
First published January 20, 2026
122 people are currently reading
149 people want to read
About the author
Faith Hunter
94 books5,738 followersFaith Hunter's Junkyard Cats novella series is available in Audible, eBook, and "ridiculously expensive" (her words) trade paperback books at this time.
Faith's Jane Yellowrock series is a dark urban fantasy. Jane is a full blooded Cherokee skinwalker and hunter of rogue-vampires in a world of weres, witches, vampires, and other supernats. 15 books and several compilations of shorts
The Soulwood series is a dark-urban fantasy / paranormal police procedural /para-thriller series featuring Nell Nicholson Ingram, an earth magic user and Special gent of PsyLED. 6 books
Her Rogue Mage novels—Bloodring, Seraphs, Host, and the RPG Rogue Mage—feature Thorn St. Croix, a stone mage in a post-apocalyptic alternate reality.
Faith is a full time writer who finally hired a housekeeper when the dust bunnies multiplied, She bakes homemade bread and loves to cook.
Faith researches in great detail, and tries most everything her characters do. Research led to her life’s passions – jewelry making, orchids, Japanese maples, bones, travel, white-water kayaking, and writing.
Faith loves orchids. Her favorite time of year is when several are blooming. Pictures can be seen at her FaceBook page. And yes, she collects bones and skulls. She has a fox, cat, dog, cow skull, goat, a boar skull, a deer skull, (that is, unfortunately, falling apart) and the jawbone of an ass. Her prize skull is a mountain lion (legally purchased from a US tannery) hit by a car in the wild.
Her latest love is Japanese maples, and she has managed to collect over thirty.
She and her husband RV, traveling to whitewater rivers to kayak all over the Southeast. Whitewater Kayaking is her very favorite sport, discovered when she was researching her (Gwen Hunter) mystery book, Rapid Descent. She took a lesson and—after a bout of panic attacks from fear of being upside down trapped in a boat—discovered she loved the sport.
Under other pen names, notably, Gwen Hunter, she writes action adventure, mysteries, and thrillers. As Gwen, she is a winner of the WH Smith Literary Award for Fresh Talent in 1995 in the UK, and won a Romantic Times Reviewers Choice Award in 2008. As Faith, her books have been on the New York Times and USA Today Bestseller lists, been nominated for various awards and won an Audie Award with Khristine Hvam, among other awards. Under all her pen names, she has more than 40 books, anthologies, and complications in print in 30 countries.
For more, including a list of her books, see www.faithhunter.net , www.gwenhunter.com . To keep up with her daily, join her fan pages at Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/official.fait... and see her website blog at
www.faithhunter.net
Faith's Jane Yellowrock series is a dark urban fantasy. Jane is a full blooded Cherokee skinwalker and hunter of rogue-vampires in a world of weres, witches, vampires, and other supernats. 15 books and several compilations of shorts
The Soulwood series is a dark-urban fantasy / paranormal police procedural /para-thriller series featuring Nell Nicholson Ingram, an earth magic user and Special gent of PsyLED. 6 books
Her Rogue Mage novels—Bloodring, Seraphs, Host, and the RPG Rogue Mage—feature Thorn St. Croix, a stone mage in a post-apocalyptic alternate reality.
Faith is a full time writer who finally hired a housekeeper when the dust bunnies multiplied, She bakes homemade bread and loves to cook.
Faith researches in great detail, and tries most everything her characters do. Research led to her life’s passions – jewelry making, orchids, Japanese maples, bones, travel, white-water kayaking, and writing.
Faith loves orchids. Her favorite time of year is when several are blooming. Pictures can be seen at her FaceBook page. And yes, she collects bones and skulls. She has a fox, cat, dog, cow skull, goat, a boar skull, a deer skull, (that is, unfortunately, falling apart) and the jawbone of an ass. Her prize skull is a mountain lion (legally purchased from a US tannery) hit by a car in the wild.
Her latest love is Japanese maples, and she has managed to collect over thirty.
She and her husband RV, traveling to whitewater rivers to kayak all over the Southeast. Whitewater Kayaking is her very favorite sport, discovered when she was researching her (Gwen Hunter) mystery book, Rapid Descent. She took a lesson and—after a bout of panic attacks from fear of being upside down trapped in a boat—discovered she loved the sport.
Under other pen names, notably, Gwen Hunter, she writes action adventure, mysteries, and thrillers. As Gwen, she is a winner of the WH Smith Literary Award for Fresh Talent in 1995 in the UK, and won a Romantic Times Reviewers Choice Award in 2008. As Faith, her books have been on the New York Times and USA Today Bestseller lists, been nominated for various awards and won an Audie Award with Khristine Hvam, among other awards. Under all her pen names, she has more than 40 books, anthologies, and complications in print in 30 countries.
For more, including a list of her books, see www.faithhunter.net , www.gwenhunter.com . To keep up with her daily, join her fan pages at Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/official.fait... and see her website blog at
www.faithhunter.net
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
January 29, 2026
In the fifth Junkyard Cats story, Shining Smith and her allies take on the “Dark Riders,” a motorcycle group that are paramilitary and very sinister enemies. They come up with a plan, which ends up being executed in a cataclysmic snowstorm, which could be the end of them all. There are some great action scenes, some heartwarming scenes, and a few "scratching my head in confusion,” scenes, which all lead to my eagerness to read the next adventure for Shining and her “made” family.
January 23, 2026
This one was interesting. As always Shining takes care of business and kicks ass, but along the way she learns something that she's not sure of with her cats, it could be good, could be bad. Loved seeing Kate and Shining in action at the diner and at the end, they deserved the happy times.
January 20, 2026
wonderful! leaves you wanting more!
Loved this book, its characters, and its word smith. Can’t wait for the next installment! I read all the books in this series before this one came out.
Loved this book, its characters, and its word smith. Can’t wait for the next installment! I read all the books in this series before this one came out.
January 20, 2026
Good book five.
Always nice to vist this universe.
Sometimes I go back and reread the books that this author writes.
That's how good they are.
Always nice to vist this universe.
Sometimes I go back and reread the books that this author writes.
That's how good they are.
January 29, 2026
3.5 Stars ⭐️
This was a continuation of the story of Shining Smith and the crazy dystopian sci-fi world that she finds herself in. Whether she is dealing with an evil AI, power hungry men or crazy cats, each installment is full of non stop action.
This is definitely not a stand alone, but the books are short enough that you can go back and find book 1 and catch up pretty fast.
This was a continuation of the story of Shining Smith and the crazy dystopian sci-fi world that she finds herself in. Whether she is dealing with an evil AI, power hungry men or crazy cats, each installment is full of non stop action.
This is definitely not a stand alone, but the books are short enough that you can go back and find book 1 and catch up pretty fast.
January 30, 2026
Always a good time. Full RTC
January 20, 2026
Great read
A breathless ride through ice and fire. Battle ensues and every weapon is used. Treason and love - we have it all
A breathless ride through ice and fire. Battle ensues and every weapon is used. Treason and love - we have it all
January 22, 2026
It’s pretty good as an addition to the ongoing series but it definitely needs more editing. This was one of the poorest editing jobs of any of her books I’ve read.
January 28, 2026
Gritty, fast‑paced, and unexpectedly heartfelt
Junkyard Riders is the kind of story that sneaks up on you. What starts as a rough‑edged, grease‑stained adventure quickly reveals a surprising amount of heart, character depth, and emotional nuance. Faith Hill blends action, found‑family dynamics, and a touch of vulnerability into a narrative that feels both cinematic and intimate.
The world of the Riders is vividly drawn, dusty lots, roaring engines, and the constant hum of danger, but what really carries the book is the cast. The characters are flawed in ways that feel real, and their loyalty, banter, and bruised tenderness give the story its momentum. I especially enjoyed how Hill lets relationships develop through small gestures and sharp dialogue rather than heavy exposition.
The pacing leans fast, sometimes a little too fast; a few emotional beats could have used more room to breathe. But even when the plot barrels forward, the core themes, trust, survival, and choosing your people, stay grounded.
Overall, this is a gritty, spunky, engaging ride with more emotional resonance than I expected. A strong entry for readers who love character‑driven action with a rebellious streak. I’m definitely curious to see where Hill takes this world next...
Junkyard Riders is the kind of story that sneaks up on you. What starts as a rough‑edged, grease‑stained adventure quickly reveals a surprising amount of heart, character depth, and emotional nuance. Faith Hill blends action, found‑family dynamics, and a touch of vulnerability into a narrative that feels both cinematic and intimate.
The world of the Riders is vividly drawn, dusty lots, roaring engines, and the constant hum of danger, but what really carries the book is the cast. The characters are flawed in ways that feel real, and their loyalty, banter, and bruised tenderness give the story its momentum. I especially enjoyed how Hill lets relationships develop through small gestures and sharp dialogue rather than heavy exposition.
The pacing leans fast, sometimes a little too fast; a few emotional beats could have used more room to breathe. But even when the plot barrels forward, the core themes, trust, survival, and choosing your people, stay grounded.
Overall, this is a gritty, spunky, engaging ride with more emotional resonance than I expected. A strong entry for readers who love character‑driven action with a rebellious streak. I’m definitely curious to see where Hill takes this world next...
January 21, 2026
I absolutely love returning to Shining Smith's strange universe and the many quirky things that happen - a recon turning into a battle turning into an even bigger battle followed by a wedding (not Shining's), followed by an announcement that joy is coming. As always, listening to Kristine Hvam is such a pleasure, especially when I've had to listen to virtual voice narrated books, recently. I'm still breathless and delighted and, even more, wondering what will be happening in the next edition of the Junkyard Cats series. I think the cats are amazing and even scary, and I enjoy the interplay between them and the humans. Faith, I love this book. Celebrating its success with you.
January 26, 2026
Another hit for the "CAT" Hunter
I was hooked at book one. A few hours ago I finished book 2. Books 3 and 4 were offered at a special price not long ago so I missed book two until about 2 pm today. Book 5 brings things together better than Jane Yellowrock's silhouette. I am a cis-man who reads a lot. I believe this truly is an other hit for Faith Hunter. I love animals especially cat videos because, no fur, no feeding, no litter box and only time expense of retirement disability in wheelchair or lift chair or more often than not doctor office chair.
I was hooked at book one. A few hours ago I finished book 2. Books 3 and 4 were offered at a special price not long ago so I missed book two until about 2 pm today. Book 5 brings things together better than Jane Yellowrock's silhouette. I am a cis-man who reads a lot. I believe this truly is an other hit for Faith Hunter. I love animals especially cat videos because, no fur, no feeding, no litter box and only time expense of retirement disability in wheelchair or lift chair or more often than not doctor office chair.
January 22, 2026
À rolicking good ride
In the saga of post World War III America Shining Smith runs her junk yard roadhouse. But something bad is coming. The mysterious dark rider club and government folk up to no good as usual. Shining needs to rally her friends, her allies her lover, assorted thralls and the cats and ride to the rescue. Saving the roadhouse and the country again. Great story. A fitting addition to the junkyard cats saga. Can’t wait for the next one.
In the saga of post World War III America Shining Smith runs her junk yard roadhouse. But something bad is coming. The mysterious dark rider club and government folk up to no good as usual. Shining needs to rally her friends, her allies her lover, assorted thralls and the cats and ride to the rescue. Saving the roadhouse and the country again. Great story. A fitting addition to the junkyard cats saga. Can’t wait for the next one.
January 25, 2026
Decent entry into this series. Very character driven, but would have liked a bit more personal interactions. Has loads of action, but needed just something more. Can read alone, but truthfully, you will not get the interactions of the secondary characters without reading previous ones, so recommend doing others first.
January 29, 2026
Shining Smith’s Roadhouse, under Jolene’s supervision, is doing well, and trade with the local settlements is thriving. Then the mine is attacked by Dark Riders, and the scope of things escalates.
Footnote: 1) I love this series’ premise, cats, and characters.
Fave scenes: Mina’s arrival, and Shinning’s tractor joyride.
Footnote: 1) I love this series’ premise, cats, and characters.
Fave scenes: Mina’s arrival, and Shinning’s tractor joyride.
January 30, 2026
I liked it
Another fun read in the Junkyard Cats series. Watching Shining figure out how to manage having thralls and dealing with very smart war cats while running the Roadhouse and taking out threats to her way of life is always a good time. The action in this book does not disappoint and the continuing storyline is keeping me hooked, waiting for the next one
Another fun read in the Junkyard Cats series. Watching Shining figure out how to manage having thralls and dealing with very smart war cats while running the Roadhouse and taking out threats to her way of life is always a good time. The action in this book does not disappoint and the continuing storyline is keeping me hooked, waiting for the next one
January 23, 2026
Shining Smith, her people, a clowder of cats, and fellow motorcycle club allies, take on the 'Dark Riders" who are threatening their way of life. Great character development and action sequences! Go Spy! If you love Kate Daniels, then this series is a must read!
January 23, 2026
awesome read
Faith came to me via her choice of the narrator. From the first junkyard book was lead to Jane yellowrock. Soul wood rouge morgue. I follow faith on her spilling tea. And Kristine Chan to what ever she reads.
Faith came to me via her choice of the narrator. From the first junkyard book was lead to Jane yellowrock. Soul wood rouge morgue. I follow faith on her spilling tea. And Kristine Chan to what ever she reads.
January 24, 2026
another banger
Shining can catch a break only long enough to have more trouble come up, and as much as I feel for her and the cats, I hope she doesn’t catch up too soon.
This is one of my favorite series right now, and after holding out a bit, it became my first book of 2026.
Shining can catch a break only long enough to have more trouble come up, and as much as I feel for her and the cats, I hope she doesn’t catch up too soon.
This is one of my favorite series right now, and after holding out a bit, it became my first book of 2026.
January 24, 2026
I love Faith Hunter and I love this series. My rating is mostly based on the fact that this book is sooooo short. It felt like the end was just a bunch of tidbits forced together so the next book would have content.
January 25, 2026
Absolutely loved it!
So many good things come out of this book. The only downside is that I am done with it and need more. One of my favorite series ever and I am pretty old. Can’t wait to see what happens next.
So many good things come out of this book. The only downside is that I am done with it and need more. One of my favorite series ever and I am pretty old. Can’t wait to see what happens next.
January 27, 2026
One of my favorite series
I have loved each little read and listen in this series. Shining Smith is a great character and I love the dystopian sci-fi-ness of this whole thing. The cats are funny and a love the twist on queens and hierarchy. I look forward to the next book in this series.
I have loved each little read and listen in this series. Shining Smith is a great character and I love the dystopian sci-fi-ness of this whole thing. The cats are funny and a love the twist on queens and hierarchy. I look forward to the next book in this series.
January 28, 2026
Where are we heading
I read the first five books. I hope this is not the end I'm so confused, are we just writing five or six books then stop. It's like writing short stories. I was just getting conformable.
I read the first five books. I hope this is not the end I'm so confused, are we just writing five or six books then stop. It's like writing short stories. I was just getting conformable.
Review of advance copy
Listened to audiobook via audible. Release date was 01/21/26.
January 25, 2026
Great addition to the series even though it’s a quick read. A lot happens and there are new issues to come.
January 26, 2026
Junkyard for the Win!
You laugh, you cry. It is a full journey with an amazing story, fantastic characters and the cats. The wonderful, bloodthirsty cats.
You laugh, you cry. It is a full journey with an amazing story, fantastic characters and the cats. The wonderful, bloodthirsty cats.
January 26, 2026
another awesome story in an awesome world!
Can’t get enough of this series, it’s another absolutely awesome story in a super cool and amazing world! Waiting on the next one! ❤️
Can’t get enough of this series, it’s another absolutely awesome story in a super cool and amazing world! Waiting on the next one! ❤️
February 1, 2026
I love visiting with Shining. I wish they were longer tales.
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews