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The Borrowed World #2
Ashes of the Unspeakable
Jim and his group are still struggling to reach home. While just a few days have passed since the initial attack, the group finds that their country is quickly descending into a vicious, chaotic landscape where nothing comes easy. While they fight to close the distance between them and their loved ones, they cannot avoid the steadily growing number of people who have realized that they can get away with whatever they want in a world where there are no longer any legal consequences for their actions.
At home, Jim's family is basically forced into lockdown after a local jail discharges its starving inmates, leading to the arrival of new, extremely violent presence in their valley. The stranger sets his sights on driving other families from their homes and taking what they own. As Jim races home, his wife Ellen struggles to keep her family safe, while each night a neighbor’s home is burned to the ground.
At home, Jim's family is basically forced into lockdown after a local jail discharges its starving inmates, leading to the arrival of new, extremely violent presence in their valley. The stranger sets his sights on driving other families from their homes and taking what they own. As Jim races home, his wife Ellen struggles to keep her family safe, while each night a neighbor’s home is burned to the ground.
308 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 9, 2015
942 people are currently reading
331 people want to read
About the author
Franklin Horton
92 books382 followersFranklin Horton lives and writes in the mountains of southwestern Virginia. He attended Virginia Intermont College and Virginia Commonwealth University. In his spare time he pursues outdoor adventures with his wife and two children. His interests include camping, kayaking, backpacking, mountain biking, and shooting.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 169 reviews
April 15, 2024
Begins right where book one left off, Jim and his friends are still trying to make their way home through an increasingly hostile environment.
Jim’s wife Ellen has her own troubles when the local prison releases all of the inmates.
“I’m not sure I ever believed something like this could happen either,” Ellen said. “I certainly never figured things would go downhill as fast as they did, but Jim always said they would. I’m just hoping his awareness has helped keep him safe through this.”
Post apocalyptic America
Nonstop action
Violence/gore
Excellent side characters
“He’s equally offensive to all races – especially his own.”
TW:
Death of kids & animals
Jim’s wife Ellen has her own troubles when the local prison releases all of the inmates.
“I’m not sure I ever believed something like this could happen either,” Ellen said. “I certainly never figured things would go downhill as fast as they did, but Jim always said they would. I’m just hoping his awareness has helped keep him safe through this.”
Post apocalyptic America
Nonstop action
Violence/gore
Excellent side characters
“He’s equally offensive to all races – especially his own.”
TW:
Death of kids & animals
July 15, 2018
So, I’d realised book one was a con-job (how else can you describe a book who’s last sentence leaves it's hero in mortal danger) but couldn't really do other than to hurriedly purchased book two. It seamlessly picked up the story as the (metaphorical) axe was about to fall and charged on with barely a pause for breath.
In truth, having been somewhat sceptical about the way life had rudely accelerated to jungle law within minutes of the lights going out, I was now fully into the flow of it and living each moment with the small cast of survivors I'd been following. Jim still hasn't smiled – well, there's not a lot to smile about – and his pal Dave is, if anything, an even more dour and somber character. There is a little light relief from the female cast but let’s not worry too much about that – this is the apocalypse and it's all about survival of the fittest.
The adventure races on as we continue to alternate between Jim and his small gang’s efforts to get home and the plight of Jim’s family as they attempt to secure their property against a grim group of lowlifes who have there eyes on the supplies they've stored. And then we re-discover two of Jim’s female colleagues who had decided to accept transport to a government camp rather than risk a ‘Mad Max’ road trip. They’re already regretting this choice and are now planning to attempt a dash of their own.
It is very well done and the further I get into this mini-series the more realistic the scenario seems to become, though prevailing thoughts are:
1. Would America really sink so low, so quickly? Surely other countries would come to their aid to some extent… wouldn't they?
2. What would happen if these circumstances were to be transported to the UK? Much of the text is centred on the guns and ammo everyone carries and just about all of the unpleasant encounters feature guns being used in anger. How different would this play out in a country without a huge supply of such weapons?
My concerns aside, this is great escapist stuff and having gobbled up book two I'm already a third of the way through book three. Tells you something, I guess.
In truth, having been somewhat sceptical about the way life had rudely accelerated to jungle law within minutes of the lights going out, I was now fully into the flow of it and living each moment with the small cast of survivors I'd been following. Jim still hasn't smiled – well, there's not a lot to smile about – and his pal Dave is, if anything, an even more dour and somber character. There is a little light relief from the female cast but let’s not worry too much about that – this is the apocalypse and it's all about survival of the fittest.
The adventure races on as we continue to alternate between Jim and his small gang’s efforts to get home and the plight of Jim’s family as they attempt to secure their property against a grim group of lowlifes who have there eyes on the supplies they've stored. And then we re-discover two of Jim’s female colleagues who had decided to accept transport to a government camp rather than risk a ‘Mad Max’ road trip. They’re already regretting this choice and are now planning to attempt a dash of their own.
It is very well done and the further I get into this mini-series the more realistic the scenario seems to become, though prevailing thoughts are:
1. Would America really sink so low, so quickly? Surely other countries would come to their aid to some extent… wouldn't they?
2. What would happen if these circumstances were to be transported to the UK? Much of the text is centred on the guns and ammo everyone carries and just about all of the unpleasant encounters feature guns being used in anger. How different would this play out in a country without a huge supply of such weapons?
My concerns aside, this is great escapist stuff and having gobbled up book two I'm already a third of the way through book three. Tells you something, I guess.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 7, 2017
4 Stars
What happens when the government is rendered impotent? What happens when there’s no electricity and food and gas run out? What happens when the military and law enforcement desert their posts to save themselves and their family?
As society devolves and reverts back over a 100 years into the past, the true mettle of man shows horrifically through, where desperation shapes actions.
Just as scary and sobering as the first, this continues to follow Jim and various other characters, as they struggle to survive by any means possible. You’ve got released prisoners, the mentally ill without their meds, people meting out their own brand of justice, all fighting to live another day. Again, this is definitely a conversation starter, if not to urge one to contemplate their own fragility in a world dominated by technology and the vulnerability wrought should it no longer be available.
What happens when the government is rendered impotent? What happens when there’s no electricity and food and gas run out? What happens when the military and law enforcement desert their posts to save themselves and their family?
As society devolves and reverts back over a 100 years into the past, the true mettle of man shows horrifically through, where desperation shapes actions.
Just as scary and sobering as the first, this continues to follow Jim and various other characters, as they struggle to survive by any means possible. You’ve got released prisoners, the mentally ill without their meds, people meting out their own brand of justice, all fighting to live another day. Again, this is definitely a conversation starter, if not to urge one to contemplate their own fragility in a world dominated by technology and the vulnerability wrought should it no longer be available.
February 27, 2016
So, so GOOD--but in a horrifying way. This author makes it all too easy to understand how fast the world as we know it could end. I'm really hoping he has more books planned for the series. Funny, I'm a huge fan of The Walking Dead, but while reading found myself thinking, I'd be less scared of zombies than monsters like Charlie...
August 7, 2020
I actually really enjoy the story. I like seeing how people react in different situations and how they are able to survive.
For narrative purposes, I think that the author made the collapse so fast, it's not really realistic for me. I also feel like the author has a bit of an agenda. The main character, Jim, did some scapegoating poor people and stereotyping welfare recipients and people who live in trailers. Although one of the other characters defended that choice of housing, she did agree that welfare people were just lazy. I feel like the next book will have racial tension, based on the fact that one of the other characters has told them that he lives near a government housing project. This kind of talk was pretty rare in this story, but it irritated me every time and I think it detracted from the story but that's just my opinion.
There is some graphic violence, but if you've read the first one, you're ready for that.
I guess reading this series now, during the shitshow that 2020 has become, was maybe not such a great idea. If anything half as catastrophic as these events happens, we are NOT ready. Hell, if the entire electrical grid was targeted, maybe society would actually collapse in two weeks, who knows. I guess anything can happen.
For narrative purposes, I think that the author made the collapse so fast, it's not really realistic for me. I also feel like the author has a bit of an agenda. The main character, Jim, did some scapegoating poor people and stereotyping welfare recipients and people who live in trailers. Although one of the other characters defended that choice of housing, she did agree that welfare people were just lazy. I feel like the next book will have racial tension, based on the fact that one of the other characters has told them that he lives near a government housing project. This kind of talk was pretty rare in this story, but it irritated me every time and I think it detracted from the story but that's just my opinion.
There is some graphic violence, but if you've read the first one, you're ready for that.
I guess reading this series now, during the shitshow that 2020 has become, was maybe not such a great idea. If anything half as catastrophic as these events happens, we are NOT ready. Hell, if the entire electrical grid was targeted, maybe society would actually collapse in two weeks, who knows. I guess anything can happen.
August 31, 2022
Franklin Horton is the master of post apocalypse fiction. He puts together fairly realistic sounding situations that could cause the country to plunge into chaos. He has clearly spent a lot of time thinking through various scenarios about how things could go wrong and how no matter how much you think you are prepared for the worst case scenario things can and would happen that you just did not plan for. In this book Jim and his co workers were still on the road just trying to get home while someone is running amok in his home town that he can do nothing about while trying to get home. As with all of the Franklin Horton books this was riveting from beginning to end. It also makes me realize that if the crap hits the fan I am not going to do well!
#franklinhorton
#postapocalypse
#prepperfiction
#franklinhorton
#postapocalypse
#prepperfiction
January 9, 2019
The series goes from following two main groups of people in book 1, to four groups in book 2. Despite that, I never found the story jarring nor the transitions too abrupt. My mind never drifted with boredom and I always looked forward to the next scene. The author took this in a new direction without eliminating the former—more like complementing it. I enjoyed this book as much, if not more, than the first and look forward to reading the 3rd sometime soon.
June 13, 2021
This is a post-disaster series (electric grid goes down in the US), and a group of friends try to make it home. Books 1 & 2 go well together and complete the first part of the story arc. There's still a lot left to explore, so I'll likely get to the other books in the series as Horton can really keep the tension going.
November 16, 2025
EOTWAWKI, book 2. Much conflict, prisons release the jail ruthless making a bad situation worse. Kindle unlimited borrow. Alexa audio read application used to listen to book.
June 13, 2021
My Musings
Wow, what a horrifying ordeal to get home to his family. I'm relieved Jim, Gary, and Randi made it home. I am so glad I found this one on Kindle Unlimited. I can't wait to read the next one in this series. Happy reading!
Wow, what a horrifying ordeal to get home to his family. I'm relieved Jim, Gary, and Randi made it home. I am so glad I found this one on Kindle Unlimited. I can't wait to read the next one in this series. Happy reading!
October 31, 2021
While reading this I got the feeling that I've read it before, so I probably have. I read a bunch of prepper fiction about 4-5 years ago and I have a terrible memory so I don't remember most of them.
Either way, I enjoyed the book, plot was pretty predictable, characters are what you expect.
It made me realize more than ever that I don't want to rely on others if something like this ever happens. So I will be doubling down on my preparedness.
You can tell by reading these books that the author doesn't think very highly of drug addicts. I'm an ex-addict and would like to say that they aren't all like the ones described in the book, some have jobs and support their own habit and don't resort to stealing from people. There are definitely a lot more of the other type though and that's the ones you hear about the most.
This book actually mentioned a couple knives by model! Jim was carrying a Gerber LMF and a SOG Twitch. Not knives I have experience with but as a "knife guy" I liked being able to look up the knives being used to see what they're made of and what they look like.
Overall, I enjoyed the book, I feel it was better than the first one. Again preppers and such will enjoy this book a lot more than other people, yes there is some inaccuracies in the gear used, especially when it comes to pack weight but you gotta make the book interesting!
Either way, I enjoyed the book, plot was pretty predictable, characters are what you expect.
It made me realize more than ever that I don't want to rely on others if something like this ever happens. So I will be doubling down on my preparedness.
You can tell by reading these books that the author doesn't think very highly of drug addicts. I'm an ex-addict and would like to say that they aren't all like the ones described in the book, some have jobs and support their own habit and don't resort to stealing from people. There are definitely a lot more of the other type though and that's the ones you hear about the most.
This book actually mentioned a couple knives by model! Jim was carrying a Gerber LMF and a SOG Twitch. Not knives I have experience with but as a "knife guy" I liked being able to look up the knives being used to see what they're made of and what they look like.
Overall, I enjoyed the book, I feel it was better than the first one. Again preppers and such will enjoy this book a lot more than other people, yes there is some inaccuracies in the gear used, especially when it comes to pack weight but you gotta make the book interesting!
March 27, 2016
Very well done. There are lots of survivalist prepper bug-out emp solar flare type stories, but this one is worth your while. Not a how-to (although helpful), but a real story, filled with characters you love and hate.
July 23, 2024
I got “Ashes of the Unspeakable” by Franklin Horton (2015), the sequel to “The Borrowed World” (reviewed here previously) and finished it today. It continues the story of Jim and his small party who are trying to get home on foot after a series of terrorist attacks on the USA wipe out the power grid, oil refineries, dams, bridges, and other essential pieces of infrastructure, plunging American society into chaos.
I recognized the beginning of the book, making me think that I’d at least started to read it many years ago, but I’m not totally sure that I ever finished it back then (perhaps the first book in the series also featured the first chapter of the second book at the end to whet the reader's appetite for the sequel and so that's all I got to see?). This was another exciting and engaging read and I found it highly entertaining. There is a lot of suspense for all characters but some are better equipped to deal with threats than others, making for very different situations spread throughout the common environment of the book; some folks “have their head right” and carry guns and they’re a lot better prepared for violent encounters than those who still believe humanity to be basically decent in spite of the violence and desperation around them. This results in many parts of the book being, in essence, a horror story, in the best possible way.
Some of the criticisms that I had - or anticipated that others might have - in the prequel seem to have been corrected in this one. Gun nerdery strikes a sweet spot, in my estimation, where the type of gun that’s being used by a character is revealed but catalogs of guns aren’t recited for no good reason. Another negative comment that I saw for the prequel was an insistence that not everyone who lives in a trailer park is a bad person. I personally didn’t receive such a message from the first book, but there were characters in that story who were bad and that did live in a trailer park, so perhaps readers with an allergy to nuance complained to that effect. There was a conversation in this book about trailer park denizens and, indeed, one of the main characters stands up for them, revealing that she lives in a trailer park, which I thought was a clever and smooth way to address that criticism.
I’ll certainly get the sequel to this one and I expect to enjoy it every bit as much as the last two.
I recognized the beginning of the book, making me think that I’d at least started to read it many years ago, but I’m not totally sure that I ever finished it back then (perhaps the first book in the series also featured the first chapter of the second book at the end to whet the reader's appetite for the sequel and so that's all I got to see?). This was another exciting and engaging read and I found it highly entertaining. There is a lot of suspense for all characters but some are better equipped to deal with threats than others, making for very different situations spread throughout the common environment of the book; some folks “have their head right” and carry guns and they’re a lot better prepared for violent encounters than those who still believe humanity to be basically decent in spite of the violence and desperation around them. This results in many parts of the book being, in essence, a horror story, in the best possible way.
Some of the criticisms that I had - or anticipated that others might have - in the prequel seem to have been corrected in this one. Gun nerdery strikes a sweet spot, in my estimation, where the type of gun that’s being used by a character is revealed but catalogs of guns aren’t recited for no good reason. Another negative comment that I saw for the prequel was an insistence that not everyone who lives in a trailer park is a bad person. I personally didn’t receive such a message from the first book, but there were characters in that story who were bad and that did live in a trailer park, so perhaps readers with an allergy to nuance complained to that effect. There was a conversation in this book about trailer park denizens and, indeed, one of the main characters stands up for them, revealing that she lives in a trailer park, which I thought was a clever and smooth way to address that criticism.
I’ll certainly get the sequel to this one and I expect to enjoy it every bit as much as the last two.
November 4, 2022
Can't think of a more fitting title. Good gawd.
I just love when a sequel is so damn solid. Based on this book alone, I'm officially convinced that the remainder of this series will continue to hijack my attention span. Because man, this book not only continued and expanded the story in a glorious fashion, it also (quite effectively, I might add) improved where book one fell short, and I'm already absolutely, positively HOOKED. Even if there is a dud entry or two buried in this series, I highly doubt it will taint what I'm seeing here.
Gone is the mix of 1st and 3rd person format that was the case in book 1, which definitely made things smoother to read, especially since there would be no more slippages of adding omnipotent thoughts into first-person perspectives. The pacing overall is better, much more nicely balanced. The comradery among characters (the sheer LOVE I have for Randi is astounding), the drama of their predicaments, the dread of a collapsing society, and the shock value of the callousness of mankind. All of it was just so. Much. BETTER.
I personally appreciated the extra points of view this time around. We not only continue to follow the groups of Jim (who's still fighting to return home) and Ellen (who's still trying to defend her family), but we are now brought into the groups of Alice (who is starting to doubt FEMA after all) and new character Charlie (a convict deliberately released from prison). And it isn't always the same person in the group telling the story, which was interesting. The perspectives are for the most part easy to keep straight since their chapters are titled with locations.
The only problems I had with this entry (hence the lack of 5th star) were some character responses to VERY gruesome or upsetting scenarios seemed a bit underplayed. It makes certain horrific moments feel less dramatic when the characters don't seem too shaken up about it. Furthermore, despite my aforementioned praise, the book being in third person points of view unfortunately forced perspectives to be mixed in with one another. It was a tad frustrating how jarring it got when a character's perspective cuts into another one in the same chapter. It was already such an improvement overall, but that doesn't mean it wouldn't have benefited from a bit more of a nudge.
All in all, though, I was quite satisfied with this entry and look forward to the next with much gusto.
I just love when a sequel is so damn solid. Based on this book alone, I'm officially convinced that the remainder of this series will continue to hijack my attention span. Because man, this book not only continued and expanded the story in a glorious fashion, it also (quite effectively, I might add) improved where book one fell short, and I'm already absolutely, positively HOOKED. Even if there is a dud entry or two buried in this series, I highly doubt it will taint what I'm seeing here.
Gone is the mix of 1st and 3rd person format that was the case in book 1, which definitely made things smoother to read, especially since there would be no more slippages of adding omnipotent thoughts into first-person perspectives. The pacing overall is better, much more nicely balanced. The comradery among characters (the sheer LOVE I have for Randi is astounding), the drama of their predicaments, the dread of a collapsing society, and the shock value of the callousness of mankind. All of it was just so. Much. BETTER.
I personally appreciated the extra points of view this time around. We not only continue to follow the groups of Jim (who's still fighting to return home) and Ellen (who's still trying to defend her family), but we are now brought into the groups of Alice (who is starting to doubt FEMA after all) and new character Charlie (a convict deliberately released from prison). And it isn't always the same person in the group telling the story, which was interesting. The perspectives are for the most part easy to keep straight since their chapters are titled with locations.
The only problems I had with this entry (hence the lack of 5th star) were some character responses to VERY gruesome or upsetting scenarios seemed a bit underplayed. It makes certain horrific moments feel less dramatic when the characters don't seem too shaken up about it. Furthermore, despite my aforementioned praise, the book being in third person points of view unfortunately forced perspectives to be mixed in with one another. It was a tad frustrating how jarring it got when a character's perspective cuts into another one in the same chapter. It was already such an improvement overall, but that doesn't mean it wouldn't have benefited from a bit more of a nudge.
All in all, though, I was quite satisfied with this entry and look forward to the next with much gusto.
May 17, 2017
Book Two of The Borrowed World series. You continue follow Jim and his coworkers on their long journey home. Made long because of a coordinated terrorist strike that has destroyed fuel, refineries, nuclear plants and the power grid. At this point the world has descended into chaos. Looters, robbers, murderers and thugs are running wild with no one to stop them. At home, Jim's wife has realized just how crazy the world has become. Her and Jim's oldest child has had to kill someone already. He's not even a teen yet.
To make things even worse for the good folks the government has release all "LOW" risk inmates. One such man is Charlie. In for petty crimes Charlie is actually a murderous psychopath. Then, to top it off, it was his brother that Jim's son killed. Now this man is wreaking havoc on Jim's family. Will he make it home in time to save them? Will Jim's mother get the medical help she needs before the pneumonia takes her? Will Jim even survive the trip home?
I absolutely love this series and this book. I have always been a hard core fiction, monster zombie book person. This book brings to light the real monsters in the world. Horton has developed amazing characters that you can relate to. Coupled with a suspenseful story line you just don't want to put it down!
To make things even worse for the good folks the government has release all "LOW" risk inmates. One such man is Charlie. In for petty crimes Charlie is actually a murderous psychopath. Then, to top it off, it was his brother that Jim's son killed. Now this man is wreaking havoc on Jim's family. Will he make it home in time to save them? Will Jim's mother get the medical help she needs before the pneumonia takes her? Will Jim even survive the trip home?
I absolutely love this series and this book. I have always been a hard core fiction, monster zombie book person. This book brings to light the real monsters in the world. Horton has developed amazing characters that you can relate to. Coupled with a suspenseful story line you just don't want to put it down!
September 25, 2019
Review by 2shay……….🌟🌟🌟🌟
The book blurb is a pretty good review, and says most of what I would say in my review. What it doesn’t say is the feeling of despair, the effort needed from Jim, Gary and Randi to push forward one more day. The sore, bloody feet wrapped in duct tape just to take that next step. The wary caution when approaching new towns and strangers. It’s intense.
The blurb doesn’t convey the fear as Jim’s wife, Ellen, their kids and Jim’s parents try to hide from the crazy convict who attacks their neighbors, leaving Jim’s family to find the horrifying results. Ellen’s heartbreak as her 12 year old son takes steps to protect the family that no 12 year old should have to face, or the hopelessness when Jim’s mother becomes desperately ill with no access to medical facilities.
Franklin Horton has done a wonderful job of filling this story with the love of family, the need to protect and the endless, burning desire to reunite. He’s made me wonder if I could be so resolute, so determined, so brutal when necessary. I don’t know. Could you?
Pick up a copy now and decide if you think humans own this world or have only borrowed it until someone takes it away.
Enjoy!
The book blurb is a pretty good review, and says most of what I would say in my review. What it doesn’t say is the feeling of despair, the effort needed from Jim, Gary and Randi to push forward one more day. The sore, bloody feet wrapped in duct tape just to take that next step. The wary caution when approaching new towns and strangers. It’s intense.
The blurb doesn’t convey the fear as Jim’s wife, Ellen, their kids and Jim’s parents try to hide from the crazy convict who attacks their neighbors, leaving Jim’s family to find the horrifying results. Ellen’s heartbreak as her 12 year old son takes steps to protect the family that no 12 year old should have to face, or the hopelessness when Jim’s mother becomes desperately ill with no access to medical facilities.
Franklin Horton has done a wonderful job of filling this story with the love of family, the need to protect and the endless, burning desire to reunite. He’s made me wonder if I could be so resolute, so determined, so brutal when necessary. I don’t know. Could you?
Pick up a copy now and decide if you think humans own this world or have only borrowed it until someone takes it away.
Enjoy!
January 29, 2026
A strong second installment in a fast-paced, straight-to-the-action modern dystopia/post-apocalypse in the making. Five stars, but for one major problem that unfortunately persists in these genres.
I cannot abide using the term "clip" when "magazine" is meant. While it may seem like a simple peeve, as an avid reader, I tend to believe that words matter—and correct words matter even more so.
I'm sure I would be as disturbed if I were to read 'Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance' and found the term "motor" used in lieu of "engine." Such terms are not interchangeable.
What's even more egregious is that this author's combined works are in those very genres, suggesting an expertise backed by hours of research—yet he still makes such an error.
I could understand the misuse if intentional: a character in first-person dialogue using the incorrect term to subtly inform the reader of that character's ignorance. But during third-person narration, as is the case here, it is totally unacceptable and immersion-breaking.
I cannot abide using the term "clip" when "magazine" is meant. While it may seem like a simple peeve, as an avid reader, I tend to believe that words matter—and correct words matter even more so.
I'm sure I would be as disturbed if I were to read 'Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance' and found the term "motor" used in lieu of "engine." Such terms are not interchangeable.
What's even more egregious is that this author's combined works are in those very genres, suggesting an expertise backed by hours of research—yet he still makes such an error.
I could understand the misuse if intentional: a character in first-person dialogue using the incorrect term to subtly inform the reader of that character's ignorance. But during third-person narration, as is the case here, it is totally unacceptable and immersion-breaking.
March 16, 2018
(Copied and pasted from original Amazon Review) I just started Borrowed World ,book one in this 5 book series, a week ago and just now finished Ashes of the Unspeakable, tonight. I feel as if I've been traveling right along with Jim's group from the very beginning because it's that well written. Plenty of action and suspense to keep interested in the story and deadly realistic situations they must face along the way as they must travel endless miles thru a world gone to hell just to make it back home to their loved ones and in one piece. Normally I would write a better review but I'm too wound up and excited to dive into book #3! Lol..Yes,it's that good. Do yourself a favor if you like dystopian apocalyptic survival type stories and buy this book now! I personally prefer immersion reading and purchased the audio books to go with these as well. It makes it so much more enjoyable😉
May 26, 2025
The decline of civilization continues....
Ashes Of The Unspeakable, book 2 in the Borrowed World series, continues chronicling the struggles of Jim and his group trying to get home, Ellen and the kids trying to stay safe, and a sociopath named Charlie terrorizing the valley in which Jim and his family live after prisoners were released when conditions in the prison became untenable. There are horrific surprises I won't spoil for you, but this is not a series for kids or highly sensitive readers. Besides that slight warning, the writing is vivid and intense, the characters multidimensional and adapting to this new world, the description of both environments and events are clear, and the pace is fast. 5/5 stars, highly recommended to fans of survival thrillers that can handle the content of the series.
Ashes Of The Unspeakable, book 2 in the Borrowed World series, continues chronicling the struggles of Jim and his group trying to get home, Ellen and the kids trying to stay safe, and a sociopath named Charlie terrorizing the valley in which Jim and his family live after prisoners were released when conditions in the prison became untenable. There are horrific surprises I won't spoil for you, but this is not a series for kids or highly sensitive readers. Besides that slight warning, the writing is vivid and intense, the characters multidimensional and adapting to this new world, the description of both environments and events are clear, and the pace is fast. 5/5 stars, highly recommended to fans of survival thrillers that can handle the content of the series.
August 24, 2025
What an adventure
While the story's environment is very different, in my teens and early 20's, I hiked those sections of the Appalachian Trail. I spent a summer working out of the Mt. Rogers Ranger station. Unlike the characters in this book, we had the gear we needed, rides to drop us off and pick us up at the end of our trip to drive us home to the Richmond or Blacksburg area.
The author developed strong characters that stayed true to their personalities. While I think that Angie could have made different decisions, she was true to the way someone in her situation would act. I hope she and her children find a way to become strong enough to handle life.
The characters seem like friends and I look forward to visiting with them in the next book.
While the story's environment is very different, in my teens and early 20's, I hiked those sections of the Appalachian Trail. I spent a summer working out of the Mt. Rogers Ranger station. Unlike the characters in this book, we had the gear we needed, rides to drop us off and pick us up at the end of our trip to drive us home to the Richmond or Blacksburg area.
The author developed strong characters that stayed true to their personalities. While I think that Angie could have made different decisions, she was true to the way someone in her situation would act. I hope she and her children find a way to become strong enough to handle life.
The characters seem like friends and I look forward to visiting with them in the next book.
April 29, 2025
Please note that the Main Character most probably wouldn't like you.
Because Jim barely tolerates one person in ten. He almost salivates thinking that 90% of everyone will die.
He only cares about his family. Now, there is nothing wrong in caring about and for your family, but it will get lonely when you have killed off everyone else. Which, it seems, Jim is prepared to do.
That others are prepared to do the same just justifies killing them...
This leaves a bad taste in my mouth. I'm writing this on April 29, 2025.
Since I bought the boxset 1-3, I'll at least start book 3, but it's getting tedious.
Because Jim barely tolerates one person in ten. He almost salivates thinking that 90% of everyone will die.
He only cares about his family. Now, there is nothing wrong in caring about and for your family, but it will get lonely when you have killed off everyone else. Which, it seems, Jim is prepared to do.
That others are prepared to do the same just justifies killing them...
This leaves a bad taste in my mouth. I'm writing this on April 29, 2025.
Since I bought the boxset 1-3, I'll at least start book 3, but it's getting tedious.
February 26, 2020
Quality series
I am so glad to have the opportunity to read a well written, thoroughly thought out piece of PA fiction. I am a copy editor by trade and this was a smooth read. Everything is realistic and I could easily imagine myself being in various character shoes The characters are all well flushed out and there’s much more than just the battles that these books often rely upon.
Now, forgive my typos. Arthritis forces me to use the microphone. I am happy to move onto the next book.
I am so glad to have the opportunity to read a well written, thoroughly thought out piece of PA fiction. I am a copy editor by trade and this was a smooth read. Everything is realistic and I could easily imagine myself being in various character shoes The characters are all well flushed out and there’s much more than just the battles that these books often rely upon.
Now, forgive my typos. Arthritis forces me to use the microphone. I am happy to move onto the next book.
April 29, 2022
This one will keep you up all night
Not only will you find yourself not able to put this one down , but the very story will bother you so deeply that sleep will be impossible. The ashes of the unspeakable become apparent as the blowback from the fan being hit becomes apparent . The sickness and corruption of the masses will change the way you live yoour daily life. If there is a remote chance that any of these tales become a reality ; you will need to use this book as a survival manual . read it now and apply it before its too.late
Not only will you find yourself not able to put this one down , but the very story will bother you so deeply that sleep will be impossible. The ashes of the unspeakable become apparent as the blowback from the fan being hit becomes apparent . The sickness and corruption of the masses will change the way you live yoour daily life. If there is a remote chance that any of these tales become a reality ; you will need to use this book as a survival manual . read it now and apply it before its too.late
November 28, 2025
This series is, for me, the most plausible of all the Prepper/Apocolypse books I've read over the past 2 years. It follows the usual patterns: Head of the household trying to get home; the dangers at home and the dangers on the road. But when office mates are your traveling companions--not all of them your friends--the trip can be a major trial. Another thing that sets it apart is the set-up, explaining how a small terrorist group learns of our weaknesses by watching The Discovery Channel. A most believable novel and I'm about to begin the 3rd in the series.
August 8, 2017
Amazing!!!
This series is amazing! For a post apocalyptic nut like myself, this book seriously makes you think. Most dystopian reads are far fetched, near impossible to believe. This, However; is extremely realistic while being entirely entertaining. These books are increasingly difficult to put down. By FAR the best dystopian/post apocalyptic stories I've ever read! Just, AMAZING! Thank you Franklin Horton!
This series is amazing! For a post apocalyptic nut like myself, this book seriously makes you think. Most dystopian reads are far fetched, near impossible to believe. This, However; is extremely realistic while being entirely entertaining. These books are increasingly difficult to put down. By FAR the best dystopian/post apocalyptic stories I've ever read! Just, AMAZING! Thank you Franklin Horton!
April 7, 2019
Such a good series
Love that the main character isn’t some wimpy wannabe prepper that wrestles with his conscience trying to decide if he can actually take life, etc., etc. When the thin veneer of civilization is stripped away the evil side of many that is currently barely held in check will emerge. Like Jim’s grandpa, immediate brutal action will be necessary in the face of a threat if you want to get home to your family. I hope that day never comes; I fear that it will.
Love that the main character isn’t some wimpy wannabe prepper that wrestles with his conscience trying to decide if he can actually take life, etc., etc. When the thin veneer of civilization is stripped away the evil side of many that is currently barely held in check will emerge. Like Jim’s grandpa, immediate brutal action will be necessary in the face of a threat if you want to get home to your family. I hope that day never comes; I fear that it will.
March 8, 2021
Amazing
I started a review of this novel and it disappeared! The bottom line is this “Abide faith,hope, love; these three. But the greatest of these is love”. The primary characters in this novel kept a firm grip on these principles although they were never quoted. Love is the driving force for these folks, even though they encounter huge obstacles and violence, they never gave up hope. I truly loved this novel and hope that you will too!
I started a review of this novel and it disappeared! The bottom line is this “Abide faith,hope, love; these three. But the greatest of these is love”. The primary characters in this novel kept a firm grip on these principles although they were never quoted. Love is the driving force for these folks, even though they encounter huge obstacles and violence, they never gave up hope. I truly loved this novel and hope that you will too!
February 1, 2022
Alice and Rebecca should have listened to Jim. Not a spoiler but it simple fact. The second book is just as good as the first. It has been a roller coaster ride through hell for the group stranded along the highway in Virginia. The home Jim left is in peril as well. I really enjoyed this book and could sympathize with the people who are in the book. I’ll definitely be moving onto book three.
June 2, 2022
Unfortunately, with this book starts a lot of pagefiling by overy long reviews of the prior books and a lot of repetitions (Character thinks something, decides to tell that to someone, talks about that to another person and finally the intended recipient)
The story stays strong but seems rather judgemental against poor people. The plot sometimes seems to work to strong in favor of the prepper paranoia of the MC.
The story stays strong but seems rather judgemental against poor people. The plot sometimes seems to work to strong in favor of the prepper paranoia of the MC.
April 25, 2023
Excellent Series Continues
This second chapter was even better than the first. Tension is intense from beginning to end. Attention to detail is top notch, and each scene is described exquisitely such that the reader is placed in the middle of the action. Characters both good and bad are interesting and well described. The storyline is frightening, particularly because the premise of the destruction while unlikely is very possible. I look forward to chapter three!
This second chapter was even better than the first. Tension is intense from beginning to end. Attention to detail is top notch, and each scene is described exquisitely such that the reader is placed in the middle of the action. Characters both good and bad are interesting and well described. The storyline is frightening, particularly because the premise of the destruction while unlikely is very possible. I look forward to chapter three!
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