What do you think?
Rate this book
Where would you go to escape a deadly virus that’s infected billions?
The UK survivors of a worldwide pandemic search for answers. Hiding behind the imposing walls of a medieval fortress, they struggle against all the odds to rebuild in a wasteland without electricity or government. Scraping a living, far away from the smoking ruins of the cities, they wait in hope, trying to make sense of what happened.
Hurst Castle stands alone. Its seventy-four occupants united in a daily struggle, scavenging for food and supplies. The Millennial Virus is the least of their concerns. When the arrival of outsiders threatens to tip the balance of power, the people of Hurst are faced with a desperate choice: set aside their differences and join an alliance that promises new hope or unite against the newcomers and their plans for reconstruction. Who can be trusted? Only time will tell.
The battle for Hurst has begun.
The UK survivors of a worldwide pandemic search for answers. Hiding behind the imposing walls of a medieval fortress, they struggle against all the odds to rebuild in a wasteland without electricity or government. Scraping a living, far away from the smoking ruins of the cities, they wait in hope, trying to make sense of what happened.
Hurst Castle stands alone. Its seventy-four occupants united in a daily struggle, scavenging for food and supplies. The Millennial Virus is the least of their concerns. When the arrival of outsiders threatens to tip the balance of power, the people of Hurst are faced with a desperate choice: set aside their differences and join an alliance that promises new hope or unite against the newcomers and their plans for reconstruction. Who can be trusted? Only time will tell.
The battle for Hurst has begun.
396 pages, ebook
First published April 1, 2016
699 people are currently reading
2111 people want to read
About the author
Robin Crumby
8 books73 followersRobin Crumby is the British author of The Hurst Chronicles, a post-apocalyptic series set on the south coast of England in the aftermath of a deadly flu pandemic. Since reading John Wyndham’s Day of the Triffids as a child, Robin became fascinated by end of the world dystopian literature and was inspired to start writing by Cormac McCarthy’s The Road and Emily St. John Mandel’s Station Eleven. Why? Because post-apocalyptic fiction fires the imagination like nothing else. Pondering what comes next, who would survive, what would life look like? Much of the best fiction in this popular genre focuses on brain-eating zombies or events unfolding in the USA, so Robin determined to write a story set in the UK. His Eureka moment came wandering the shingle beach at Milford-on-sea, inspired by the beauty and rich history of the Solent. Where better to survive the end of the world than a medieval castle surrounded by water? Robin spent much of his childhood messing about in boats, exploring the many waterways, harbours and military forts of the Isle of Wight, where The Hurst Chronicles series is set.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
April 13, 2017
I Got What I Was Looking For in a Dystopian Novel!
Imagine a pandemic virus has destroyed your city and only some of you are left to survive.
All you have is a castle to protect you from the catastrophic events going on outside it.
Everyone is after each others lives. They are ready to kill you the moment you flick your eyes.
Set in a dystopian world, Hurst is a story about the most ancient battle in the world - Between Good and Evil.
A virus has been spread in the city which is infecting every single thing. Those who are infected will not be stopped or defeated.
In the middle of these tragic and traumatic events, Jack, Terra, Zed, Tommy, Will, Joe and some others are trying their best to survive as long as they can , which isn't much.
Friendship, not-giving-up attitude, best utilization of survival instincts, full of Action and Thrilling storyline are some of the characteristic of Hurst that made me give it full and solid 5 Stars!
Language is lucid, straightforward and unambiguous. Robin's writing style is gripping and preoccupying. Something I can't help admiring.
Attesting is the word for it.
Hurst is the kind of book that you must make some time for and read it.
425 something pages and the thrilling emotions don't let you move for a second.
The realistic and believable characters are add ons to its awesomeness.
Fast paced and well-woven plot provides an adventurous ride for a couple of hours.
You read the blurb and you know since then you are in a battle field. Fighting and killing anyone and everyone else you see. But most importantly, learning and surviving.
My praises would go to the author for the way he has described the characters.
I've not read many dystopian books but I can say that Hurst has made me adore the dystopian genre.
His style of writing will certainly impress readers to read more of his works.
A full time page turner is the adjective that would go for it.
It fueled my excitement since the first page and I wanted to know what happens next after each page.
The personalities exemplified by the characters are near perfection.
The way the author presents before you a whole new world of limited possibilities of survival, you know you've engrossed much before the story even started.
In the end, nothing is better than reading its second part.
Verdict: Anyone who likes to read dystopian novels, it would turn out to be a gem.
April 7, 2017
Robin Crumby has written a lively action book which follows a tried and tested post-apocalypse setting. My thoughts went to a combination of the BBC TV series Survivors, and William Brinkley’s The Last Ship.
The book contains several storylines as different characters and groups become involved in different events in and around Hurst. I found the various stories easy to follow but at times we had long waits before returning to some characters. I also appreciated the locations which were in an area that I am familiar with.
On a few occasions I wanted to shout at the characters for their poor judgement in difficult situations. These are people who have managed against the odds to survive for two years in a very hostile environment yet at times they make the most irrational and dangerous decisions.
But that was a small issue because on the whole what we have here is an easy to read story of a wide mix of characters battling the odds and generally coming out on top.
A classic formula for an entertaining novel that richly deserves four stars.
Reviewed by Clive on www.whisperingstories.com
The book contains several storylines as different characters and groups become involved in different events in and around Hurst. I found the various stories easy to follow but at times we had long waits before returning to some characters. I also appreciated the locations which were in an area that I am familiar with.
On a few occasions I wanted to shout at the characters for their poor judgement in difficult situations. These are people who have managed against the odds to survive for two years in a very hostile environment yet at times they make the most irrational and dangerous decisions.
But that was a small issue because on the whole what we have here is an easy to read story of a wide mix of characters battling the odds and generally coming out on top.
A classic formula for an entertaining novel that richly deserves four stars.
Reviewed by Clive on www.whisperingstories.com
April 18, 2017
I was so excited to get this in the Goodreads Giveaway! I haven't read many dystopian books, but I have enjoyed the ones I did read.
I really liked the setting, like someone mentioned in a prior review it was nice to have it not be set in America for once. I also think The castle and coastal setting gave the book a unique and perfect atmosphere for this story. The characters were well developed and authentic, I felt like their actions seemed realistic given their circumstances, which is a huge plus because nothing spoils a book more for me than unrealistic characters.
I very rarely give out even 4 stars, for a a book to get 5 stars means I really enjoyed it :)
I really liked the setting, like someone mentioned in a prior review it was nice to have it not be set in America for once. I also think The castle and coastal setting gave the book a unique and perfect atmosphere for this story. The characters were well developed and authentic, I felt like their actions seemed realistic given their circumstances, which is a huge plus because nothing spoils a book more for me than unrealistic characters.
I very rarely give out even 4 stars, for a a book to get 5 stars means I really enjoyed it :)
March 1, 2023
This was fairly ok, but the testosterone just oozed out of it and pretty much spoiled it for me. A bit too misogynistic. There was a group of women who decided to try to go it without men. Of course they were doomed to failure because of their inferiority. The groups that were run by men all kept trying to kill each other, but all is cool there because that is the natural order of things.
Boys.
I received this book free from Goodreads in exchange for an honest review.
Boys.
I received this book free from Goodreads in exchange for an honest review.
August 12, 2016
After the Millennial Virus decimated the world's population, the surviving few band together in hopes of rebuilding society. But without law and order, with the underpinnings of society snuffed out in a matter of days, there's nothing stopping the ruthless from destroying what's left of mankind.
Such is the depressing backdrop in which we find ourselves, as Jack tries to protect and grow the families in his care, isolated and safe sequestered in Hurst Castle, on the southern shore of England, within sight of the Isle of Wight.
Jack, Terra, Zed, Tommy, Joe, and a handful of survivors spend their weeks scavenging through the devastated cities for supplies, while gangs and the infected roam at will. To be seen is to die. When Zed, Riley, Joe, and Will head out on a scavenging hunt, Will is captured by well-armed paramilitary thugs, and taken to their Nazi-like base inside a local hospital. Zed isn't going to give up on Will, and attempts to rescue him, but ends up with a couple of victimized girls and the wrath of the group's psychotic leader.
Content:
Violence:
PG-13 - While action and suspense were the main focuses of the novel, there was significant graphic violence to tip the scales. The ravages of the disease were described in some detail, and the horrific aftermath of a worldwide plague isn't hidden from view, with bodies everywhere, along with the smell. People are enslaved and experimented on. One person is captured, tied up, and practically left to die in his own filth.
Language:
PG - I don't remember more than mild expletives.
Adult Content:
PG-13 - Women are degraded and taken advantage of. Some men are held captive and bred to continue the species. Nothing is described, and we don't visit those scenes, but they are mentioned.
Christian content:
I'm not positive where to put this. The book is a peek into the dark heart of mankind, when placed without limits, on a level with Lord of the Flies. It arguably could be a useful tool for that. In one part scripture is quoted and applied clearly to a situation, but the religious person quoting it is depicted as a psychopath, who may or may not have changed for the better. Several people are atheists. There's a few people of faith in the book depicted in a positive light. God is blamed for the virus.
Final analysis:
Hurst is, as I said, a diatribe on the dark heart of man, and the only glimmer of hope in the mix appears to be the will to survive, and an alliance with an outside party. I would hesitate giving it to a younger teen, but it's a well-written adventure story. It's an edge-of-your-seat page turner, but it's pretty dark nonetheless. The characters were real and raw, the antagonists were dark and the stakes were pegged at survival of the species. The pace was fast and the setting was immersive. Five Stars.
*I received an electronic copy for an honest review
Such is the depressing backdrop in which we find ourselves, as Jack tries to protect and grow the families in his care, isolated and safe sequestered in Hurst Castle, on the southern shore of England, within sight of the Isle of Wight.
Jack, Terra, Zed, Tommy, Joe, and a handful of survivors spend their weeks scavenging through the devastated cities for supplies, while gangs and the infected roam at will. To be seen is to die. When Zed, Riley, Joe, and Will head out on a scavenging hunt, Will is captured by well-armed paramilitary thugs, and taken to their Nazi-like base inside a local hospital. Zed isn't going to give up on Will, and attempts to rescue him, but ends up with a couple of victimized girls and the wrath of the group's psychotic leader.
Content:
Violence:
PG-13 - While action and suspense were the main focuses of the novel, there was significant graphic violence to tip the scales. The ravages of the disease were described in some detail, and the horrific aftermath of a worldwide plague isn't hidden from view, with bodies everywhere, along with the smell. People are enslaved and experimented on. One person is captured, tied up, and practically left to die in his own filth.
Language:
PG - I don't remember more than mild expletives.
Adult Content:
PG-13 - Women are degraded and taken advantage of. Some men are held captive and bred to continue the species. Nothing is described, and we don't visit those scenes, but they are mentioned.
Christian content:
I'm not positive where to put this. The book is a peek into the dark heart of mankind, when placed without limits, on a level with Lord of the Flies. It arguably could be a useful tool for that. In one part scripture is quoted and applied clearly to a situation, but the religious person quoting it is depicted as a psychopath, who may or may not have changed for the better. Several people are atheists. There's a few people of faith in the book depicted in a positive light. God is blamed for the virus.
Final analysis:
Hurst is, as I said, a diatribe on the dark heart of man, and the only glimmer of hope in the mix appears to be the will to survive, and an alliance with an outside party. I would hesitate giving it to a younger teen, but it's a well-written adventure story. It's an edge-of-your-seat page turner, but it's pretty dark nonetheless. The characters were real and raw, the antagonists were dark and the stakes were pegged at survival of the species. The pace was fast and the setting was immersive. Five Stars.
*I received an electronic copy for an honest review
February 8, 2017
I received this book through a Goodreads giveaway. I was amazed at how promptly it arrived, as I got it less than a week after I was notified that I had won the giveaway! The book arrived in perfect condition and I got reading it as soon as I could. First of all, I love where it's set. I have spent a lot of time in the south of England, and so it was nice to be familiar with the locations. Yet even if I hadn't been familiar with the area, the inclusion of a cute hand-drawn map and the eloquent prose would have made it just as easy to get my bearings. By the way, don't get confused by the blurb like I did; there is no character called Hurst, when the pronoun is "Hurst", that's just Crumby referring to the group of people living in Hurst Castle (or maybe only I would get confused by something like that). The book launched right into the action with a possible zombie shot (I say possible because this is the only time I get the impression that the "infected" are the walking dead at all). This was followed by a think-fast introduction of characters and their environment. At first I was dubious about the author's choice of doing such exposition, but as the story progressed, I decided that it was relevant and helped me bond with the characters, which is obviously an essential part of any thriller (or any book full stop). The action was realistic but gripping, and the characters utterly believable. In fact, every aspect of the book was hauntingly grounded in reality, in such a way that I now know that in an apocalypse I'll go and shut myself up in a castle like Hurst. Truly a eerie and entertaining read.
December 23, 2016
I received this book through a GR giveaway, and though I was sure I already reviewed it, Goodreads seemed to disagree. So here I am writing my second review because my first is nowhere to be found. I rather enjoyed Hurst, and while I wouldn't give it 5 stars, I'd recommend it to anyone who likes post apocaliptic novels.
Unlike most dystopian novels, this book takes places only shortly after the 'apocalypse'. This means we get to read about the characters struggling to adapt to their new way of life and how drastic a change it was for them. I think that is what makes the characters more relatable, because they were just like us before the Milennial Virus struck. It is very interesting to see how people can change from model citizens to ruthless murderers who capture and experiment on people.
Although I enjoyed the book, I didn't get 'attached' to the characters as much as I normally do. I wouldn't have been upset if one of them had died. Also, I found a number of spelling and grammar mistakes, which I am not going to list here.
In short, despite some minor issues, I enjoyed Hurst and I am looking forward to reading the sequel.
Unlike most dystopian novels, this book takes places only shortly after the 'apocalypse'. This means we get to read about the characters struggling to adapt to their new way of life and how drastic a change it was for them. I think that is what makes the characters more relatable, because they were just like us before the Milennial Virus struck. It is very interesting to see how people can change from model citizens to ruthless murderers who capture and experiment on people.
Although I enjoyed the book, I didn't get 'attached' to the characters as much as I normally do. I wouldn't have been upset if one of them had died. Also, I found a number of spelling and grammar mistakes, which I am not going to list here.
In short, despite some minor issues, I enjoyed Hurst and I am looking forward to reading the sequel.
July 2, 2017
*I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review*
First Impression: Dark days of a pandemic apocalypse - this should be good!
Characters: This is an action driven story in the aftermath of a plague, so the characters are appropriately world-weary with a twinge of hope. They are all distinct and unique in my head, which makes them believable.
World Building: Crumby has a knack for painting the scene. From the crumbling castle fortresses to deserted towns, the reader is transported to a bleak future Earth.
Writing Style: Relatable. Relevant. Riveting. The three R's of an excellent read. From pop culture references to vivid descriptions, Robin Crumby quickly became one of my favorite authors.
What I Enjoyed: Hurst is fast-paced and sometimes even humorous. Levity in dark places is a perfect break for enjoyment. This book has something for everyone.
Deal Benders: It is rare that I can't find much to improve upon, but honestly cannot think of anything I didn't care for in Hurst.
Overall Rating: 5 stars, all the stars! Cannot wait to read Hurst Chronicles #2!
For Fans Of: Post-apocalyptic action, suspense, and a little mystery.
First Impression: Dark days of a pandemic apocalypse - this should be good!
Characters: This is an action driven story in the aftermath of a plague, so the characters are appropriately world-weary with a twinge of hope. They are all distinct and unique in my head, which makes them believable.
World Building: Crumby has a knack for painting the scene. From the crumbling castle fortresses to deserted towns, the reader is transported to a bleak future Earth.
Writing Style: Relatable. Relevant. Riveting. The three R's of an excellent read. From pop culture references to vivid descriptions, Robin Crumby quickly became one of my favorite authors.
What I Enjoyed: Hurst is fast-paced and sometimes even humorous. Levity in dark places is a perfect break for enjoyment. This book has something for everyone.
Deal Benders: It is rare that I can't find much to improve upon, but honestly cannot think of anything I didn't care for in Hurst.
Overall Rating: 5 stars, all the stars! Cannot wait to read Hurst Chronicles #2!
For Fans Of: Post-apocalyptic action, suspense, and a little mystery.
July 13, 2016
A deadly virus has ravaged the world and those who are lucky enough to have survived now have to face the real struggle of staying alive.
Set in the south of England, Book One Of The Hurst Chronicles drew me in from the first page and kept me engaged to the very last one. The story was so fast paced that I didn't notice the pages turning.
Coming from the south of England, I am familiar with many of the places mentioned in this book. I thought the story was incredibly well crafted. On one hand, Crumbly talks about what these places were like before the virus, and then he describes what they are like in this dystopian world that he has created. This, for me, added a disturbing slant to the story, which I found strangely appealing.
There are several characters, whose story's, although interwoven with each other, you follow throughout this book. Each character has a unique personality, and each brought something new to the novel.
This is a well executed and stunning book. I really enjoyed it, and I would have no hesitation in recommend this book.
Set in the south of England, Book One Of The Hurst Chronicles drew me in from the first page and kept me engaged to the very last one. The story was so fast paced that I didn't notice the pages turning.
Coming from the south of England, I am familiar with many of the places mentioned in this book. I thought the story was incredibly well crafted. On one hand, Crumbly talks about what these places were like before the virus, and then he describes what they are like in this dystopian world that he has created. This, for me, added a disturbing slant to the story, which I found strangely appealing.
There are several characters, whose story's, although interwoven with each other, you follow throughout this book. Each character has a unique personality, and each brought something new to the novel.
This is a well executed and stunning book. I really enjoyed it, and I would have no hesitation in recommend this book.
July 13, 2016
First let me say that I loved reading a dystopian/post-apocalyptic book that is set in somewhere other than America! I have read several books of that genre but they have all been set in the United States. It was just a neat new way to experience a post-apocalyptic world.
I love reading this genre; I love the survival aspect and, honestly, the virus storyline always gets me because it's not really far fetched! Hurst was the kind of book that keeps me reading well into the night, partly because it's so good and partly because it gets my mind thinking the "this could really happen!" thoughts and I can't sleep so I just keep reading! It was definitely an enjoyable read and I'm excited to continue the series as each one becomes available. Five Stars for sure!
*Note: I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for and honest review.
I love reading this genre; I love the survival aspect and, honestly, the virus storyline always gets me because it's not really far fetched! Hurst was the kind of book that keeps me reading well into the night, partly because it's so good and partly because it gets my mind thinking the "this could really happen!" thoughts and I can't sleep so I just keep reading! It was definitely an enjoyable read and I'm excited to continue the series as each one becomes available. Five Stars for sure!
*Note: I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for and honest review.
June 26, 2016
This is a story with a extremely dark backdrop but which is also entirely believable. Right from the beginning you get immersed in the characters, their state of existence, adventures, set backs and their dilemmas. I enormously enjoyed the story as it unfolded and developed. The build up of tension is fantastic and you are continuously are wondering what you would be doing in the same situation. It is wonderfully written and I am looking forward to working my way through the continuing series!
August 9, 2016
A dark, dystopian novel that post-apocaliptic aficionados will love! Both dystopian and post-apocalyptic elements merge beautifully portraying the aftermath of an event of cataclysmic proportions in which society as we know it ceases to exist. The world building is spectacular and it literally fires your imagination! Authentic characters and breath-taking adventures do the rest.
Read more on The Serial Reader Blog.
*This book was kindly sent to me by the author -Robin Crumby- in exchange for an honest review*
Read more on The Serial Reader Blog.
*This book was kindly sent to me by the author -Robin Crumby- in exchange for an honest review*
July 28, 2017
Hurst Castel. Christchurch Bay. 74 PPL were camped out in the east wing, about to awake from their iron bunk beds.
Jack (leader, former Royal Fleet Auxiliary), Tommy (2nd. leader), Sam (Skip), Zed (scavenger), Nathan, Liz (cook), Greta (30, Swedish, head of security), Cedric (aka Scottie), Will (South African), James, Sarah (teen) Adele (child), & Terra, were discussing the necessities they needed to survive.
The Millennial virus had taken many lives everywhere.
BBC News 24 had confirmed that.
Bob, Riley (f), Joe, Mila (teen), Will, & Sean (teen) another group did their best to keep useable supplies coming in.
Later Will (South African) had been captured & Bob had been killed.
Captain Anders Bjorklund (Norwegian, former Navy) & 1st. Officer Victor greeted Jack & Bob aboard the Charlotte Maersk (shipping vessel).
The Nipper (fishing boat) was now loaded down with supplies.
Who was Dr. Ganesh (aka Raj) attending to?
Lieutenant Peterson (American) had landed the Seahawk helicopter on the Hurst property.
What did the guest speakers: Captain Armstrong (Royal Navy), Captain Bjorklund, & Professor Nichols (U of Southampton, Centre for Biological Science) have to say?
Where were Copper, & Trevor headed too?
Hurst Castel. Christchurch Bay. New arrivals are: Roger, Simon, Gary, Jackson, Toby, & Shannon.
The nun’s: Sister Immelda, Sister Mel, Sister Georgina, Sister Theodora (25+), & Jean Farley were striving to stay alive also.
Will an antidote be discovered to fight the deadly Millennial Virus?
Maersk Charlotte or Charlotte Maersk?
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one. All thoughts & opinions are entirely my own.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written dystopian thriller book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a large set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great dystopian thriller movie, or better yet a mini TV series. To be continued. There is no doubt in my mind this is a very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free Novatum Group publisher; Smashwords; Instafreebie; Author; PDF book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
Jack (leader, former Royal Fleet Auxiliary), Tommy (2nd. leader), Sam (Skip), Zed (scavenger), Nathan, Liz (cook), Greta (30, Swedish, head of security), Cedric (aka Scottie), Will (South African), James, Sarah (teen) Adele (child), & Terra, were discussing the necessities they needed to survive.
The Millennial virus had taken many lives everywhere.
BBC News 24 had confirmed that.
Bob, Riley (f), Joe, Mila (teen), Will, & Sean (teen) another group did their best to keep useable supplies coming in.
Later Will (South African) had been captured & Bob had been killed.
Captain Anders Bjorklund (Norwegian, former Navy) & 1st. Officer Victor greeted Jack & Bob aboard the Charlotte Maersk (shipping vessel).
The Nipper (fishing boat) was now loaded down with supplies.
Who was Dr. Ganesh (aka Raj) attending to?
Lieutenant Peterson (American) had landed the Seahawk helicopter on the Hurst property.
What did the guest speakers: Captain Armstrong (Royal Navy), Captain Bjorklund, & Professor Nichols (U of Southampton, Centre for Biological Science) have to say?
Where were Copper, & Trevor headed too?
Hurst Castel. Christchurch Bay. New arrivals are: Roger, Simon, Gary, Jackson, Toby, & Shannon.
The nun’s: Sister Immelda, Sister Mel, Sister Georgina, Sister Theodora (25+), & Jean Farley were striving to stay alive also.
Will an antidote be discovered to fight the deadly Millennial Virus?
Maersk Charlotte or Charlotte Maersk?
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one. All thoughts & opinions are entirely my own.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written dystopian thriller book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a large set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great dystopian thriller movie, or better yet a mini TV series. To be continued. There is no doubt in my mind this is a very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free Novatum Group publisher; Smashwords; Instafreebie; Author; PDF book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
August 9, 2017
I enjoyed this book and I love the location it is based around. The Hurst Castle is definitely where I want to seek refuge from the nasty apocalypse. There is little about the nightmare of the actual downfall of society, but I don't think there are any zombies in this apocalypse or the dystopian horror that remains. It's not the disease that is the problem rather the megalomaniacs vying for power. Well written with excellent character and world building.
I highly recommend this book to anyone that loves adventure in a dystopian setting
I highly recommend this book to anyone that loves adventure in a dystopian setting
January 6, 2022
Spot on prediction of pep!es fears &reaction to C19
Well-intentioned people making the same mistakes over again and expecting miracles to save them. This story highlights the need for discipline in the new world created by fear and panic
Well-intentioned people making the same mistakes over again and expecting miracles to save them. This story highlights the need for discipline in the new world created by fear and panic
August 13, 2017
A very realistic scenario. I quite enjoyed that. It reads easily and the story is very probable.
September 10, 2017
Robin Crumby has a great imagination! But, this sounds like it could really happen.
He has a lot of so very different characters working and fighting together, but I was able to keep track of them all.
The main group is settled into Hurst Castle. With Robin's writing, it felt like I was sitting on the stone floor, or on the boat in the storm.
I'm looking forward to the next one.
He has a lot of so very different characters working and fighting together, but I was able to keep track of them all.
The main group is settled into Hurst Castle. With Robin's writing, it felt like I was sitting on the stone floor, or on the boat in the storm.
I'm looking forward to the next one.
July 22, 2017
Great tale with so many twists and turns it will keep you reading
And hope it never ends
And hope it never ends
January 1, 2019
Excellent post-apocalyptic tale, looking forward to the delving into the next one. Highly recommend!
August 20, 2017
Good read.
December 11, 2018
Intriguing
Saw this and immediately interested for the local connection - Camp Wight is my home! Very familiar landmarks in a desperate future blighted by a virus which has all but destroyed humanity.
Interesting characters and a strong plot.
Saw this and immediately interested for the local connection - Camp Wight is my home! Very familiar landmarks in a desperate future blighted by a virus which has all but destroyed humanity.
Interesting characters and a strong plot.
December 29, 2017
A very dark dystopian novel about survivors of a plague who fight it out with rival groups as they try to defend their castle and rebuild society. The story moved a little too slow for me, but the twists and turns and characters reactions to the conflicts they faced made the plot very believable and kept me reading. I'm looking forward to the next book to see how it all plays out.
September 22, 2019
Hurst
An excellent amazing story for all to read. I would love to see it made into a move. I loved it!!!
An excellent amazing story for all to read. I would love to see it made into a move. I loved it!!!
September 27, 2018
Realistic Post-Pandemic Tale with Strong Characterization
I am such a sucker for a well-done apocalyptic story and this novel definitely qualifies as such. It's a gritty read set in coastal Britain and a 500 year old castle inhabited by a ragtag band of peaceful survivors beset by cold hearts on all sides. And yes it is a dread series. But unfortunately, one good enough to suck me in once again. When will I ever learn?
I am such a sucker for a well-done apocalyptic story and this novel definitely qualifies as such. It's a gritty read set in coastal Britain and a 500 year old castle inhabited by a ragtag band of peaceful survivors beset by cold hearts on all sides. And yes it is a dread series. But unfortunately, one good enough to suck me in once again. When will I ever learn?
September 15, 2018
While this genre of story isn't my general cup of tea I did find this novel interesting. The idea that a deadly virus is hidden behind a different everyday disease made the storyline feel like it could have been a real circumstance. The only things I felt brought Hurst down where the multiple characters that you couldn't connect with. The story jumped several times it was hard to really get a feel for them even though I see why she would multiple groups in a apocalyptic world. Based on the novel this book would be rated young adult to mature. As an independent reviewer for Romance Authors That Rock whose thoughts and opinions are my own I give this 3.5 Hearts
May 4, 2017
This is a great thriller with lots of action and drama to keep you swiftly turning the pages! This is the first book in the series so it will be really interesting to see what lies ahead and how it all develops further. Lots of detail, the author knows his subject, highly recommended.
September 8, 2019
Good read.
Really enjoyed this book. Good story. Real page turner. Strong characters some likable others not so much. Definitely getting the rest of these books.
Really enjoyed this book. Good story. Real page turner. Strong characters some likable others not so much. Definitely getting the rest of these books.
November 17, 2018
Hurst 1
I really loved this book, it has a different take on the Apocalypse or maybe it was the area that I enjoyed so much. The characters are well written , a couple I am not too fond of! Like Briggs and Copper, still not sure of Terra yet. But Jack, Riley and Will, who I feel so bad for (Will) because of the attack on the castle. If you are debating if you should read this as book, do so, you won't be sorry. I am looking forward to reading the next book.
I really loved this book, it has a different take on the Apocalypse or maybe it was the area that I enjoyed so much. The characters are well written , a couple I am not too fond of! Like Briggs and Copper, still not sure of Terra yet. But Jack, Riley and Will, who I feel so bad for (Will) because of the attack on the castle. If you are debating if you should read this as book, do so, you won't be sorry. I am looking forward to reading the next book.
September 28, 2017
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
I initially expected this book to be a lot like Stephen King’s The Stand due to the apocalypse being brought on by a virus. Instead what I found was a fictional book about the truths of human nature under absolute stress.
Situations, like global annihilation of mankind, cause the survivors to do what they need to do in order to survive. Sometimes that causes them to turn into something they never were or just become the epitome of evil. Sometimes they can still hold true to themselves and maintain who they were.
Regardless this book turned out to really just not move for me. It was a great idea. It had a great setup. I couldn't care less about the characters. If I don't care about a single character, why bother with a book at all? I also felt like there weren't enough descriptions. I couldn't really fall into the scenes like I do with most books.
It was, like I said, a great idea for a plot line. Some of the characters would have also been great for me had they been fleshed out some more. If I could use half stars I would rate 3.5. In fairness I will round up.
4 stars.
I initially expected this book to be a lot like Stephen King’s The Stand due to the apocalypse being brought on by a virus. Instead what I found was a fictional book about the truths of human nature under absolute stress.
Situations, like global annihilation of mankind, cause the survivors to do what they need to do in order to survive. Sometimes that causes them to turn into something they never were or just become the epitome of evil. Sometimes they can still hold true to themselves and maintain who they were.
Regardless this book turned out to really just not move for me. It was a great idea. It had a great setup. I couldn't care less about the characters. If I don't care about a single character, why bother with a book at all? I also felt like there weren't enough descriptions. I couldn't really fall into the scenes like I do with most books.
It was, like I said, a great idea for a plot line. Some of the characters would have also been great for me had they been fleshed out some more. If I could use half stars I would rate 3.5. In fairness I will round up.
4 stars.
August 4, 2018
Honestly I've read a bunch of SHTF books and the genre is a bit saturated, but Hurst (book 1) held my interest. Along the southern coast of England is Hurst Castle (not too far from Portsmouth). A group holed up at the castle has to deal with regular supply runs, warlords trying to expand their domain, Americans, nuns, and the virus that caused the mess. It's more character driven than some of the other books of similar nature. And I thought that was a bit refreshing.
I did have to overlook some terminology, as a Navy guy (Airedale and rotorhead) some of the nomenclature of aircraft and flight deck and ship operations I had to chalk up to "layman-speak". Tom Clancy excelled at the technical, but this isn't Clancy (and doesn't attempt to copy, so it's all good).
I have book 2 already and am looking forward to seeing how the story unfolds.
I did have to overlook some terminology, as a Navy guy (Airedale and rotorhead) some of the nomenclature of aircraft and flight deck and ship operations I had to chalk up to "layman-speak". Tom Clancy excelled at the technical, but this isn't Clancy (and doesn't attempt to copy, so it's all good).
I have book 2 already and am looking forward to seeing how the story unfolds.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews