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Stone Age #4
Cicada
A small group of survivors, including some of the world's brightest scientists, sought safety in a walled sanctuary known as Cicada in what is left of Colorado. Their goal is to find solutions to the seemingly permanent solar storms plaguing the ailing Earth.
On the other side of their walls, evil forces will strike for their own reasons:
• desperate squatters want Cicada's resources;
• a religious cult with thousands of red-robed warriors, led by a prophet, intends to claim it as their Promised Land; and
• nearby, another walled fortress plots Cicada's destruction.
As Cicada's inhabitants struggle to fight the evils outside, a startling secret reveals why the survival of all mankind hangs at the precipice of extinction. However, it’s the evil inside of each of them that’s even more of a threat than what is outside their walls.
Will great scientific minds find an answer? Can humanity possibly survive?
CICADA is the next book run-away best-selling Stone Age Series, set one year after a solar apocalypse has destroyed most of the earth’s technology.
On the other side of their walls, evil forces will strike for their own reasons:
• desperate squatters want Cicada's resources;
• a religious cult with thousands of red-robed warriors, led by a prophet, intends to claim it as their Promised Land; and
• nearby, another walled fortress plots Cicada's destruction.
As Cicada's inhabitants struggle to fight the evils outside, a startling secret reveals why the survival of all mankind hangs at the precipice of extinction. However, it’s the evil inside of each of them that’s even more of a threat than what is outside their walls.
Will great scientific minds find an answer? Can humanity possibly survive?
CICADA is the next book run-away best-selling Stone Age Series, set one year after a solar apocalypse has destroyed most of the earth’s technology.
270 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 20, 2015
169 people are currently reading
308 people want to read
About the author
M.L. Banner
46 books159 followersHello lovers of apocalyptic thrillers!
I devour the same books I enjoy writing: science fiction, set in an apocalyptic/post-apocalyptic or dystopian world. I love stories about regular people being thrust into extra ordinary circumstances, and having to rely on their own cunning and that of others to survive. And I love a twist at the end.
My just released Ashfall Apocalypse, as well as previous series Madness, Highway and Stone Age are those kind of stories. They're fast moving, have some regular (and amazing) characters who must make life changing decisions, all while the world is experiencing an apocalypse.
Besides writing, my wife and I travel the world (often to research the next book). But often you can find me on a beach, Kindle in hand, with my Toes in the Water (name of my publishing company).
I devour the same books I enjoy writing: science fiction, set in an apocalyptic/post-apocalyptic or dystopian world. I love stories about regular people being thrust into extra ordinary circumstances, and having to rely on their own cunning and that of others to survive. And I love a twist at the end.
My just released Ashfall Apocalypse, as well as previous series Madness, Highway and Stone Age are those kind of stories. They're fast moving, have some regular (and amazing) characters who must make life changing decisions, all while the world is experiencing an apocalypse.
Besides writing, my wife and I travel the world (often to research the next book). But often you can find me on a beach, Kindle in hand, with my Toes in the Water (name of my publishing company).
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
August 14, 2015
This was an advanced copy from the author and is a very awesome book to read. Thank you M.L. BANNER...This like said is an awesome book and comes after the STONE AGE series but can be read alone since it is the first in the CICADA series. I can't wait for the next books to come out to find out what is going on in both CICADA and BIOS-2...
May 1, 2016
M.L. Banner continues his thrilling dystopian series with "Cicada" the next leg of the journey for Maxwell Thompson and the Kings after an "X-45 solar flare hit earth" results in the collapse of society technologically and economically. After "the event" Thompson and the Kings flee from Mexico to a safe haven in Colorado where some of the earth's brilliant scientists are searching for a solution to end the solar storms plaguing the Earth. What they don't expect is to unearth a secret hidden in a biosphere nearby or to fight a desperate evil that wants to take over Cicada.
With skillful dexterity the author weaves together threads of an intoxicating plot that follows not only the desperation of squatters outside Cicada; a fanatical cult willing to fight and die to take over both safe havens, but the unraveling of a secret that lies hidden within Bios-2. Fast-paced and action packed the tension mounts as Max Thompson begins to let rage overcome his calm, in-control demeanor as he struggles to keep the evil outside the walls of Cicada at bay and to protect his friends and colleagues. A thrill-ride that keeps you on the edge for your seat from the first page to the last, the intensity and suspense builds when deep inside Bios-2 a revelation exposes a dark secret that could be the underlying cause of the apocalypse.
Having to survive in an atmosphere of fear, violence and death fostered by a catastrophic event that has stolen commonsense and reason from mankind, the personalities of multiple characters in this story begin to change. Maxwell J. Thompson the ex-military prepper who masterminded the creation of Cicada seems heartless, merciless and without compassion in his struggle to keep the squatters and red-robed warriors outside the walls of the sanctuary. Accused of focusing on protecting his friends rather than those within the community, he struggles to find a balance between what needs to be done and maintaining a sense of humanity. In contrast Senator Brian P. Westerling the leader of Bios-2 is arrogant, deceitful, and controlling. Power-hungry and manipulative he's determined to run both sanctuaries unaware the cost might be more than he expected.
Added to an array of fascinating characters that add excitement and high-energy to the unfolding drama are; the curious and brilliant Dr. Carrington Reid; the rebellious, stubborn Dr. Melanie Reid; the wise, tough Magdalena Garcia; and the clever but claustrophobic Sally King.
I loved "Cicada" a dystopian masterpiece that captivates the reader with its complexity of plot and realistic characters. I rate it highly and look forward to the next chapter in this series.
With skillful dexterity the author weaves together threads of an intoxicating plot that follows not only the desperation of squatters outside Cicada; a fanatical cult willing to fight and die to take over both safe havens, but the unraveling of a secret that lies hidden within Bios-2. Fast-paced and action packed the tension mounts as Max Thompson begins to let rage overcome his calm, in-control demeanor as he struggles to keep the evil outside the walls of Cicada at bay and to protect his friends and colleagues. A thrill-ride that keeps you on the edge for your seat from the first page to the last, the intensity and suspense builds when deep inside Bios-2 a revelation exposes a dark secret that could be the underlying cause of the apocalypse.
Having to survive in an atmosphere of fear, violence and death fostered by a catastrophic event that has stolen commonsense and reason from mankind, the personalities of multiple characters in this story begin to change. Maxwell J. Thompson the ex-military prepper who masterminded the creation of Cicada seems heartless, merciless and without compassion in his struggle to keep the squatters and red-robed warriors outside the walls of the sanctuary. Accused of focusing on protecting his friends rather than those within the community, he struggles to find a balance between what needs to be done and maintaining a sense of humanity. In contrast Senator Brian P. Westerling the leader of Bios-2 is arrogant, deceitful, and controlling. Power-hungry and manipulative he's determined to run both sanctuaries unaware the cost might be more than he expected.
Added to an array of fascinating characters that add excitement and high-energy to the unfolding drama are; the curious and brilliant Dr. Carrington Reid; the rebellious, stubborn Dr. Melanie Reid; the wise, tough Magdalena Garcia; and the clever but claustrophobic Sally King.
I loved "Cicada" a dystopian masterpiece that captivates the reader with its complexity of plot and realistic characters. I rate it highly and look forward to the next chapter in this series.
August 23, 2015
As a fan of the Stone Age series, I graciously accepted an advance copy of Cicada for review. This is a new series from author M.L. Banner. Naturally, my fear was how seamless would the transition to a new series be for the reader. I would say this is a resounding success for Banner!
This is a post apocalyptic story where the main character, Max, reaches Cicada; the facility built and developed to benefit mankind by bringing together the world's brightest talent. Some of that talent never arrives. Why? There are sinister reasons and a secret agenda by a crooked politician bent on destruction.
Banner is able to 're-develop' his characters in such a way that the back story is not needed to thoroughly enjoy this beginning to the Cicada series. The writing will have you engrossed from the beginning and you'll find yourself wanting more (if you haven't read the Stone Age series and enjoyed Cicada, now would be a good time to read it before the next Cicada).
This is a post apocalyptic story where the main character, Max, reaches Cicada; the facility built and developed to benefit mankind by bringing together the world's brightest talent. Some of that talent never arrives. Why? There are sinister reasons and a secret agenda by a crooked politician bent on destruction.
Banner is able to 're-develop' his characters in such a way that the back story is not needed to thoroughly enjoy this beginning to the Cicada series. The writing will have you engrossed from the beginning and you'll find yourself wanting more (if you haven't read the Stone Age series and enjoyed Cicada, now would be a good time to read it before the next Cicada).
August 8, 2015
M.L. BANNER has given us a worthy addition to the STONE AGE series.
CICADA continues seamlessly from DESOLATION and never misses a beat.
Rarely does a book meet my every expectation. Well CICADA does just that
and more. I am so ready for CICADA 2 I can taste it !!! CICADA does it
all. It neatly ends the STONE AGE series. It can certainly stand alone
and it is a delicious preview of what M.L.BANNER tells us will be a three
book series to come. M.L.BANNER is proving himself to be an absolute
master of the post-apocalyptic fiction. Forget Zombies. let M.L.BANNER
take you on a dystopian ride that does not involve the undead. Instead
BANNER gives us a future in which, to steal from "POGO" we meet the enemy
and he is us. Well not us, but you know, them. By the way I kinda liked
this book.
CICADA continues seamlessly from DESOLATION and never misses a beat.
Rarely does a book meet my every expectation. Well CICADA does just that
and more. I am so ready for CICADA 2 I can taste it !!! CICADA does it
all. It neatly ends the STONE AGE series. It can certainly stand alone
and it is a delicious preview of what M.L.BANNER tells us will be a three
book series to come. M.L.BANNER is proving himself to be an absolute
master of the post-apocalyptic fiction. Forget Zombies. let M.L.BANNER
take you on a dystopian ride that does not involve the undead. Instead
BANNER gives us a future in which, to steal from "POGO" we meet the enemy
and he is us. Well not us, but you know, them. By the way I kinda liked
this book.
Read
July 4, 2022Fall of the world
Aha! Two cicadas. Evil Senator Westerly had stolen the plans, kidnapped scientists and planned to do away with the original Cicada and Max Thompson . There were troubles in his paradise. And he sent the cult to destroy Max.
Another book is required to complete this series. Author says soon . How long really?
Aha! Two cicadas. Evil Senator Westerly had stolen the plans, kidnapped scientists and planned to do away with the original Cicada and Max Thompson . There were troubles in his paradise. And he sent the cult to destroy Max.
Another book is required to complete this series. Author says soon . How long really?
August 13, 2020
Great read.
This has been a continuation of enjoyable episodes of a still unfolding saga. I personally am a bit out off by the occasional typos that are more common than not. They seem to be part of the Kindle books genre.
This has been a continuation of enjoyable episodes of a still unfolding saga. I personally am a bit out off by the occasional typos that are more common than not. They seem to be part of the Kindle books genre.
December 19, 2020
Good read. Will read next in the series for sure. Mix of pepper and post apocalypse. Interesting premise. Good plot
Liked it overall. Villains are numerous. Good mix of tech, military and prepped. Leaves you hanging in the end. Gotta read next book.
Liked it overall. Villains are numerous. Good mix of tech, military and prepped. Leaves you hanging in the end. Gotta read next book.
March 30, 2021
What a series thankfully it isn't finished but I read one book after the other so hooked was I had also read the madness series this one is as good if not better I love this author can't believe I've only just recently heard of him cracking books would reccomend for anyone with apocalyptic taste 😁
August 6, 2017
Good
This was a pretty good story. Scary thought that
an EMP could happen because it could. What is more scary is brought out the worst in a lot of people!
This was a pretty good story. Scary thought that
an EMP could happen because it could. What is more scary is brought out the worst in a lot of people!
March 15, 2019
Can't wait for the next one
An awesome read. Lots of excitement and subterfuge. Easy to read and fun. Excited to see what the author comes up with next!
An awesome read. Lots of excitement and subterfuge. Easy to read and fun. Excited to see what the author comes up with next!
December 15, 2020
Excellent book
Can't wait for book five. Max is a great character and love the story. Sorry to Cicada end, just wanted more!
Can't wait for book five. Max is a great character and love the story. Sorry to Cicada end, just wanted more!
June 6, 2021
Want More!
This is an amazing series! What an adventure. Max is on a roll with a great cast of characters. Can’t wait for the next book!!
This is an amazing series! What an adventure. Max is on a roll with a great cast of characters. Can’t wait for the next book!!
March 17, 2017
Great book and a great series! I hope there will be more! Recommended!
April 26, 2018
Excellent
Another excellent installment in this post apocalyptic series. I anxiously await book five. The story and characters are great to follow.
Another excellent installment in this post apocalyptic series. I anxiously await book five. The story and characters are great to follow.
September 1, 2015
I received an advanced copy of this book for a honest review. With that out of the way let me just say that I Loved loved loved this book !!! M.L. Banner has another winning book that easily picked up after Desolation and Stone Age , and the two side stories. I have given several friends and family the first two books from him.
My favorite character has shown a side of himself totally different than what I was expecting but in a good way,Max. I must say that Cicada facility is exactly what I had pictured in my head as I was reading the books. I cringed every time the story turned to the Senator and his group but not cause it was bad for the storyline but because I didn't like him and his cronies messing with Max and Cicada.
Keep up the awesome work Mr.Banner and I'll keep buying and reading !!!!!
My favorite character has shown a side of himself totally different than what I was expecting but in a good way,Max. I must say that Cicada facility is exactly what I had pictured in my head as I was reading the books. I cringed every time the story turned to the Senator and his group but not cause it was bad for the storyline but because I didn't like him and his cronies messing with Max and Cicada.
Keep up the awesome work Mr.Banner and I'll keep buying and reading !!!!!
August 31, 2015
I received an advanced copy to read and review.
I have never read a book by M.L. Banner before, but now he is added to my list of authors I will definitely read going forward. I thought the storyline was well written. I thought it was one going one way and then it totally took you somewhere else. I really enjoyed the villain in this book and I enjoyed disliking him immensely. There was only one part of the book that threw me for a loop and that was related to a group of people. I wasn't clear on their point in the story. It seemed as though they were an afterthought and were added in as filler.
But overall, I truly enjoyed this story and will need to read all the other books in regards to these characters.
I have never read a book by M.L. Banner before, but now he is added to my list of authors I will definitely read going forward. I thought the storyline was well written. I thought it was one going one way and then it totally took you somewhere else. I really enjoyed the villain in this book and I enjoyed disliking him immensely. There was only one part of the book that threw me for a loop and that was related to a group of people. I wasn't clear on their point in the story. It seemed as though they were an afterthought and were added in as filler.
But overall, I truly enjoyed this story and will need to read all the other books in regards to these characters.
August 23, 2015
Great read, keeps my attention with all that is happening with the good guys and all the bad guys. I wanted to skim to review but find I want to reread to get all the details I missed on the first tension filled time. I was a recipient of an advanced copy. This book is complete and the first of the Cicada series, but I loved Stone Age and it will give an even better understanding of most of the characters, highly recommend all the author's books. Well written, fast paced, believable. Science involved is fascinating. Also, might make you think how you would handle those conditions, and who you want to share with. Hope you like it as much as I do, especially the epilogue.
September 11, 2016
Post-apocalyptic story involving all manner of evildoers, heroes and heroines, a very shady religious cult, chaos from solar activity, and not one, but TWO supposedly safe habitats with limited access.
I got the feeling that there were details in previous works by the author that provided a back story on several characters, but the book does stand on its own. However, there is a cliffhanger at the end, so be warned that if you want resolution to the story, you won't get it here.
A few of the characters are pretty obviously drawn, so that they are almost caricatures, but others seem to have more depth to them. It's an interesting story, and I will probably continue the series.
I got the feeling that there were details in previous works by the author that provided a back story on several characters, but the book does stand on its own. However, there is a cliffhanger at the end, so be warned that if you want resolution to the story, you won't get it here.
A few of the characters are pretty obviously drawn, so that they are almost caricatures, but others seem to have more depth to them. It's an interesting story, and I will probably continue the series.
August 23, 2015
Part of the Stone Age World series....this book only makes it better! The character's stories flow easily from 1st book and there is no interruption in the story-line. Cicada continues the travels and travails of several characters (whom you grow to either adore or hate depending on whether they are good or evil), and boy do they get into some tight spots! I can really see this as a movie...the action and suspense, love, sadness, thrills and scares would appeal to men and women alike. Highly recommend!
July 19, 2016
Cicada review
Cicada is the first book of this post apocalyptic series written by author M. L. Banner. I would recommend reading the first two books in the Stone Age series beforehand.
Cicada is the first book of this post apocalyptic series written by author M. L. Banner. I would recommend reading the first two books in the Stone Age series beforehand.
September 20, 2015
Didn't enjoy it.
This seemed to start with very little background and by the time I caught up I was no longer interested.Just infighting between two similar groups.
This seemed to start with very little background and by the time I caught up I was no longer interested.Just infighting between two similar groups.
January 21, 2016
Loved this book.
September 18, 2016
Really great story.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews