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Extinction Cycle #6
Extinction Aftermath
The sixth book in USA Today bestselling author Nicholas Sansbury Smith's propulsive post-apocalyptic series about one man's mission to save the world.The newly christened leader of Delta Force Team Ghost, Master Sergeant Joe Fitzpatrick arrives in Normandy over 70 years after Allied Forces joined the fight against the Nazis. The war to free survivors and eradicate pockets of adult Variants and their offspring is underway by the European Unified Forces. But as the troops push east, rumors of a new type of monster spread through the ranks. Fitz and his new team quickly realize that the fight for Europe might be harder than anyone ever imagined.Back in the States, Captain Reed Beckham and Dr. Kate Lovato are settling into a new life on Plum Island. Across the United States, the adult Variants have all been wiped out, and the juveniles are on the run. But the survivors soon realize there are other monsters at home, and they may be human.A new monster emerges... pick up the series that D. J. Molles said "delivers unrelenting, unmerciful action" before it's too late!The Extinction Book 1: Extinction HorizonBook 2: Extinction EdgeBook 3: Extinction AgeBook 4: Extinction EvolutionBook 5: Extinction EndBook 6: Extinction AftermathBook 7: Extinction War
375 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 7, 2016
471 people are currently reading
750 people want to read
About the author
Nicholas Sansbury Smith
99 books2,372 followersNicholas Sansbury Smith is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of more than forty novels with two million copies sold. Before his writing career, he served at Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management, a background that inspired many of his story concepts. A two time Ironman triathlete, he enjoys running, biking, and hiking. Nicholas also loves traveling, especially to his cabin in Northern Minnesota where he weaves his tales. He lives in Iowa with his wonderful wife and their son and daughter.
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Note: Nicholas is no longer an active user on Goodreads and does not use the platform. If you want to connect with him on social media here are some links. He would love to hear from you.
Facebook Fan Club: https://www.facebook.com/groups/NSSFa...
Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/nicholassans...
Website: nicholassansburysmith.com
Instagram: instagram.com/author_sansbury/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 144 reviews
February 5, 2022
Top Notch Action!
If you like lots of action and military drama, then this series is for you.
Team Ghost is fighting for Europe, trying to tackle their problems with the Variants and the Juveniles.
But that’s not all they have to fight because The Juveniles are mutating into different species of horror.
And if that isn’t bad enough, on the home front, terrorists are home grown and they are using the virus to spark a civil war.
Problems are running all over the place. Will human beings conquer the monsters or is man becoming extinct?
If you like lots of action and military drama, then this series is for you.
Team Ghost is fighting for Europe, trying to tackle their problems with the Variants and the Juveniles.
But that’s not all they have to fight because The Juveniles are mutating into different species of horror.
And if that isn’t bad enough, on the home front, terrorists are home grown and they are using the virus to spark a civil war.
Problems are running all over the place. Will human beings conquer the monsters or is man becoming extinct?
October 9, 2016
Odds are, if you’re reading a review of this sixth installment in Nick Smith’s popular Extinction Cycle series, you’re already a fan and I won’t be able to tell you much you don’t already know. If you’ve not yet picked up any of these books, and provided that military horror thriller creature features are your bag, then you’ll want to stop here and proceed directly to the first book in this series, Extinction Horizon.
Extinction Aftermath picks up in the months following Extinction End, and Team Ghost, now under the leadership of Master Sergeant Joe “Fitz” Fitzsimmons, is preparing to invade Europe in an effort to quell the Variant threat overseas. Back at home, Reed Beckham is settling into civilian life with the very pregnant Dr. Kate Lovato, and President Ringgold is trying to stitch America back together through a series of Safe Zone Territories. Needless to say, everything goes to hell in a handbasket, and pretty darn quickly, too.
For my money, Aftermath just might be the best EC book yet, which says quite a bit about Smith’s growth as an author and thriller writer. This title hits a few sweet spots that I’ve been waiting for the series to tackle, particularly taking the war to Europe (we get plenty of well-staged action scenes in France) and the introduction of some quite interesting mutations on the Variant side of things. The cover gives you a good hint of what one such mutation Smith’s introduces is, but there’s a few others that are pretty spiffy.
More intriguing, though, is the sense of scope Aftermath possesses. Now that the war against the Variants has gone global, there’s a great sense of sprawling epicness to the story, with the action taking us from the shores of France, back home to Plum Island, Florida, and a few other locales. And the new threat facing America serves to heighten and propel the threats abroad to dangerous levels, while also raising the stakes for our series heroes considerably.
My only real complaint with Aftermath is the lack of resolution. Nearly every plot thread ends on a cliff-hanger, some bigger than others, making this book merely a prelude to the next novel, Extinction War. On the other hand, it’s not like I wasn’t going to continue on with this series regardless. Even if everything had been neatly wrapped up, I’d still be plunking down the cash for whatever Smith has lined up next. From the looks of it, Book 7 should certainly be a doozy.
Extinction Aftermath picks up in the months following Extinction End, and Team Ghost, now under the leadership of Master Sergeant Joe “Fitz” Fitzsimmons, is preparing to invade Europe in an effort to quell the Variant threat overseas. Back at home, Reed Beckham is settling into civilian life with the very pregnant Dr. Kate Lovato, and President Ringgold is trying to stitch America back together through a series of Safe Zone Territories. Needless to say, everything goes to hell in a handbasket, and pretty darn quickly, too.
For my money, Aftermath just might be the best EC book yet, which says quite a bit about Smith’s growth as an author and thriller writer. This title hits a few sweet spots that I’ve been waiting for the series to tackle, particularly taking the war to Europe (we get plenty of well-staged action scenes in France) and the introduction of some quite interesting mutations on the Variant side of things. The cover gives you a good hint of what one such mutation Smith’s introduces is, but there’s a few others that are pretty spiffy.
More intriguing, though, is the sense of scope Aftermath possesses. Now that the war against the Variants has gone global, there’s a great sense of sprawling epicness to the story, with the action taking us from the shores of France, back home to Plum Island, Florida, and a few other locales. And the new threat facing America serves to heighten and propel the threats abroad to dangerous levels, while also raising the stakes for our series heroes considerably.
My only real complaint with Aftermath is the lack of resolution. Nearly every plot thread ends on a cliff-hanger, some bigger than others, making this book merely a prelude to the next novel, Extinction War. On the other hand, it’s not like I wasn’t going to continue on with this series regardless. Even if everything had been neatly wrapped up, I’d still be plunking down the cash for whatever Smith has lined up next. From the looks of it, Book 7 should certainly be a doozy.
February 19, 2018
If I haven't made it clear by now how much I like this series I never will. Every book is spectacular and jammed packed with action and nail biting, edge of your seat angst. You never know what's going to happen and how things will play out.
I'm looking forward to Extinction War but also dreading it since it will be the last one :/ and I kind of still want more. I mean, part of me wants this to be over so that my favorite characters can finally relax and have a happily ever after but the other part of me doesn't want to let the characters go at all and if the only way to keep these book going is to leave them in this apocalyptic world...well then you can't blame me for the desires of my heart.
I'm looking forward to Extinction War but also dreading it since it will be the last one :/ and I kind of still want more. I mean, part of me wants this to be over so that my favorite characters can finally relax and have a happily ever after but the other part of me doesn't want to let the characters go at all and if the only way to keep these book going is to leave them in this apocalyptic world...well then you can't blame me for the desires of my heart.
April 9, 2017
I give this 4.5 stars with the half taken off because I found it to be a little to wordy. I love Nick's writing but he can go on sometimes and make me wish he could use fewer words to describe his situations. I am also not a fan of cliff hangers but sometimes you deal just because you know it will be resolved eventually. My people are still moving forward and continuing to grow and thrive, the location has also grown in its scope though not always for the better, the situations have become more tense and dark.
Reed Beckham and Big Horn retired after their last mission which took a heavy toll on Reed's body. Reed, Kate, Horn and his girls all live together and are awaiting the birth of Kate and Reeds child on plum Island. While they do this Kate continues to help categorize the Variants and Juveniles that are still a part of their world.
Fitz has taken over as leader of Team Ghost and he and Apollo have been shipped overseas to help liberate Europe from their Variant problem. Things are not going so well since they were not informed of what was really happening there.
President Ringgold has been trying to bring back normalcy to the country by establishing Safe Zone Territories. They are running fairly well and her administration has been able to build a new White House in the wake of their victory over the Variants.
But like with anything else, just when you think you have a handle on things and they are going well someone throws a wrench into the works. Here that would be Lieutenant Andrew Wood, brother of the crazy, and dead, Zach Wood. He has some demands from the new government and they involve him taking over. Can the world survive a maniac who does not care fr anything but power.
Loved that this is told from multiple points of view. Not completely happy that there are at least 4-5 threads to try and keep up with, though each is good. I will admit that I want more and know that it is coming soon. I have to see where we end up and hope that my favorites are still standing at the end. Multiple cliff hangers means I have no idea who survives and who dies and it is killing me.
I highly recommend this series to anyone who loves a good apocalyptic story because it is here! Will the human race survive? Should we?
Reed Beckham and Big Horn retired after their last mission which took a heavy toll on Reed's body. Reed, Kate, Horn and his girls all live together and are awaiting the birth of Kate and Reeds child on plum Island. While they do this Kate continues to help categorize the Variants and Juveniles that are still a part of their world.
Fitz has taken over as leader of Team Ghost and he and Apollo have been shipped overseas to help liberate Europe from their Variant problem. Things are not going so well since they were not informed of what was really happening there.
President Ringgold has been trying to bring back normalcy to the country by establishing Safe Zone Territories. They are running fairly well and her administration has been able to build a new White House in the wake of their victory over the Variants.
But like with anything else, just when you think you have a handle on things and they are going well someone throws a wrench into the works. Here that would be Lieutenant Andrew Wood, brother of the crazy, and dead, Zach Wood. He has some demands from the new government and they involve him taking over. Can the world survive a maniac who does not care fr anything but power.
Loved that this is told from multiple points of view. Not completely happy that there are at least 4-5 threads to try and keep up with, though each is good. I will admit that I want more and know that it is coming soon. I have to see where we end up and hope that my favorites are still standing at the end. Multiple cliff hangers means I have no idea who survives and who dies and it is killing me.
I highly recommend this series to anyone who loves a good apocalyptic story because it is here! Will the human race survive? Should we?
October 6, 2016
The EXTINCTION CYCLE carries on - crazier than ever
I was thrilled when I heard a few months ago that author Nick Smith was going to continue with the EXTINCTION CYCLE series. I had finished with book 5 of the series - EXTINCTION END - and was already having withdrawal symptoms - and definitely wanting to know more about what happened to the world.
This book started with the action on page one and it did NOT let up. It kept my pulse racing, that's for sure.
I think I've written before that this one is my favorite and again - this one is my fave. Favorite characters are back, although not all of them. Team Ghost led by Fitz and Apollo this time heads to help the European Unified Forces (EUF) and runs into MUCH more than they expected.
I love the characters, the monsters, the b**ls to the wall action.
I also just finished this crazy offering (crazy in a good way) and found out at the end there's going to be a book 7 EXTINCTION WAR so I am one happy fan girl.
I received an Advanced Reading Copy of this book but I bought my own copy too, just like I have all the rest of his work to support this talented writer. And I guarantee this is my unbiased review.
I was thrilled when I heard a few months ago that author Nick Smith was going to continue with the EXTINCTION CYCLE series. I had finished with book 5 of the series - EXTINCTION END - and was already having withdrawal symptoms - and definitely wanting to know more about what happened to the world.
This book started with the action on page one and it did NOT let up. It kept my pulse racing, that's for sure.
I think I've written before that this one is my favorite and again - this one is my fave. Favorite characters are back, although not all of them. Team Ghost led by Fitz and Apollo this time heads to help the European Unified Forces (EUF) and runs into MUCH more than they expected.
I love the characters, the monsters, the b**ls to the wall action.
I also just finished this crazy offering (crazy in a good way) and found out at the end there's going to be a book 7 EXTINCTION WAR so I am one happy fan girl.
I received an Advanced Reading Copy of this book but I bought my own copy too, just like I have all the rest of his work to support this talented writer. And I guarantee this is my unbiased review.
July 6, 2018
Mini-Review:
I like how Smith ties up different details that were drawn into the story from the very first book and on. That said, I should not have listened to the last three books without putting in more buffer space between the books because it made me note how often certain things were done in the book for characters, feelings & plot. They sort of bleed into each other in a hazy fashion. My advice is to give yourself some time between books. That way you can really enjoy the story for what it is and not get hung up on similarities like I did.
I have NO idea how the surviving members are going to get out of the current hot mess! Guess I will have to get the last book to find out how that series of miracles will occur. =D
Really enjoyed the changes on the Variants. I like it. It makes evil-doer sense and doesn't hit my story believe it net too hard. Smith does a great job of really hammering in the heart feels about humanity. How you can really do without some and want to wreck heaven & earth to help others. Yup! Solid points for making me feel emotions.
I like how Smith ties up different details that were drawn into the story from the very first book and on. That said, I should not have listened to the last three books without putting in more buffer space between the books because it made me note how often certain things were done in the book for characters, feelings & plot. They sort of bleed into each other in a hazy fashion. My advice is to give yourself some time between books. That way you can really enjoy the story for what it is and not get hung up on similarities like I did.
I have NO idea how the surviving members are going to get out of the current hot mess! Guess I will have to get the last book to find out how that series of miracles will occur. =D
Really enjoyed the changes on the Variants. I like it. It makes evil-doer sense and doesn't hit my story believe it net too hard. Smith does a great job of really hammering in the heart feels about humanity. How you can really do without some and want to wreck heaven & earth to help others. Yup! Solid points for making me feel emotions.
January 4, 2021
Wow, I'm speechless!!!! I have read and loved every single one of these books and couldn't wait for this one, well the author has surpassed himself with it. It was breathtakingly brilliant. So many emotions while reading!!!!
So this one sees Team Ghost, with Fitz at the helm, taking their efforts to Europe. They have made contact with some people in France and set off to help, but Europe is overrun with not only Juveniles, but Adult Variants. Plus their Variants are extreme!! They have evolved to be even more monstrous than any Team Ghost have ever seen.
"“All it takes is all you got, Marine,” Fitz said, echoing the motto of Sergeant Jose Garcia. He finally understood why the French and European Unified Forces weren’t here waiting for them with wine and cheese on the beach. Europe had fallen into darkness because the juveniles here had grown up. They were adults now, and they were smarter, bigger, and more deadly than any Fitz had faced back in the States."
Meanwhile, Beckham and Horn are enjoying retirement.... ha, not really, this is Beckham and Horn we are talking about!!! They were born to fight!! When President Ringgold tells them that the country is under attack again and this time it's not the Variants but someone who is willing to start the virus back up again, they know they need to help!
So again, I'll say wow!! Seriously, this book was phenomenal. Every single book has been action packed, but this one seemed even more so because both Team Ghost and Beckham and Horn are in deeper than they have ever been, especially Team Ghost. The Variants in Europe had longer to evolve since they didn't spread the Variant Weapon till the Juveniles were more established, so most were fully grown. How can you kill something that has evolved weapons and protection of their own!! Well, read it and see ;)
I have said it with every book in the series, I love these characters. They are so well written and developed, that it's hard not to become invested in them. Beckham and Horn, Kate and Pat, Fitz and Apollo, they are characters that stay with you, you feel what they are feeling and you root for them continually! And when they get hurt, you gasp and cry along with them!! This book hurt my heart though. Things happen that made me stop for a second and go noooooooooo, noooooo, nooooooooo!!
I don't know what else to say about this other than it's perfection. Action packed, thrilling, addicting, captivating, entertaining and amazing, this is a must read!!! I CAN NOT wait for the next book, though I don't know if my heart can take it!!! Buy it, you won't be disappointed.
There isn't much else I can say about Bronson Pinchot that I haven't expressed in my other reviews of the series! He has been consistently good with his characters and the way he portrays them. He reads it extremely well and knows how to bring the story alive. Highly enjoyed his performance.
So this one sees Team Ghost, with Fitz at the helm, taking their efforts to Europe. They have made contact with some people in France and set off to help, but Europe is overrun with not only Juveniles, but Adult Variants. Plus their Variants are extreme!! They have evolved to be even more monstrous than any Team Ghost have ever seen.
"“All it takes is all you got, Marine,” Fitz said, echoing the motto of Sergeant Jose Garcia. He finally understood why the French and European Unified Forces weren’t here waiting for them with wine and cheese on the beach. Europe had fallen into darkness because the juveniles here had grown up. They were adults now, and they were smarter, bigger, and more deadly than any Fitz had faced back in the States."
Meanwhile, Beckham and Horn are enjoying retirement.... ha, not really, this is Beckham and Horn we are talking about!!! They were born to fight!! When President Ringgold tells them that the country is under attack again and this time it's not the Variants but someone who is willing to start the virus back up again, they know they need to help!
So again, I'll say wow!! Seriously, this book was phenomenal. Every single book has been action packed, but this one seemed even more so because both Team Ghost and Beckham and Horn are in deeper than they have ever been, especially Team Ghost. The Variants in Europe had longer to evolve since they didn't spread the Variant Weapon till the Juveniles were more established, so most were fully grown. How can you kill something that has evolved weapons and protection of their own!! Well, read it and see ;)
I have said it with every book in the series, I love these characters. They are so well written and developed, that it's hard not to become invested in them. Beckham and Horn, Kate and Pat, Fitz and Apollo, they are characters that stay with you, you feel what they are feeling and you root for them continually! And when they get hurt, you gasp and cry along with them!! This book hurt my heart though. Things happen that made me stop for a second and go noooooooooo, noooooo, nooooooooo!!
I don't know what else to say about this other than it's perfection. Action packed, thrilling, addicting, captivating, entertaining and amazing, this is a must read!!! I CAN NOT wait for the next book, though I don't know if my heart can take it!!! Buy it, you won't be disappointed.
There isn't much else I can say about Bronson Pinchot that I haven't expressed in my other reviews of the series! He has been consistently good with his characters and the way he portrays them. He reads it extremely well and knows how to bring the story alive. Highly enjoyed his performance.
December 22, 2016
This book exceeds any expectations I may have had. Reading Extinction Aftermath on my Kindle reader, I was so engrossed in the story, and the writing, that when it was time to stop reading I went to look for a bookmark :D I like the new monsters, but I'm sad that some people can't remain safe in their family life. I hate the evil that is out there, but I really enjoy reading how NSS puts it in play. I'm excited to see if we save Europe, and what new monster(s) we may find there.
I am voluntarily reading an ARC, but I definitely plan on owning the paperback!
I am voluntarily reading an ARC, but I definitely plan on owning the paperback!
January 21, 2019
I think this series has run a few books too many!
November 12, 2017
Bei der Reihe sollte einem auch keiner ans Herz wachsen. :(
December 15, 2017
The Extinction Cycle continues and it rocks!
As Beckham recovers, the Delta Ghost team keeps up the fight. But the Variants have their own surprises for the surviving human race....and survivors might not just be fighting the monsters created....
This is a fantastic sixth book in the Extinction Cycle series. The life-altering obstacles, the unimaginable danger, and the frantic pace make this a definite 'stay up late for another chapter' book. One night spent in breathless rapture as the suspense froze me to my chair to finish this book!
With amazing characters that leave the reader either rooting for or despising them, I could not get enough! Luckily, there will be a seventh book in this outstanding series...that I will have to wait for patiently. Maybe, I can just start the whole thing over again (not for the second time) and keep cheering for the incomparable Delta Ghosts!
I love all of Nicholas Sansbury Smith's books and was ecstatic to receive an advance copy of this book. But I've purchased it as well to make sure that I always have a copy and to support Mr. Smith to write more!
I wholeheartedly recommend this entire series! Awesomely well done!
As Beckham recovers, the Delta Ghost team keeps up the fight. But the Variants have their own surprises for the surviving human race....and survivors might not just be fighting the monsters created....
This is a fantastic sixth book in the Extinction Cycle series. The life-altering obstacles, the unimaginable danger, and the frantic pace make this a definite 'stay up late for another chapter' book. One night spent in breathless rapture as the suspense froze me to my chair to finish this book!
With amazing characters that leave the reader either rooting for or despising them, I could not get enough! Luckily, there will be a seventh book in this outstanding series...that I will have to wait for patiently. Maybe, I can just start the whole thing over again (not for the second time) and keep cheering for the incomparable Delta Ghosts!
I love all of Nicholas Sansbury Smith's books and was ecstatic to receive an advance copy of this book. But I've purchased it as well to make sure that I always have a copy and to support Mr. Smith to write more!
I wholeheartedly recommend this entire series! Awesomely well done!
July 28, 2019
3.5 stars. Found myself getting bored. Couple huge cliff hangers, so on to number 7!
October 6, 2016
Nicholas Sansbury Smith has done it again. Team Ghost has returned and is ready for duty. Extinction Aftermath is then next thrilling and addictive instalment in the Extinction cycle series. I was so excited to find out that Nicholas Sansbury Smith would be writing another book in his brilliant Extinction Cycle series. I made sure that I pre-ordered myself a copy quick smart. This series is in my top series of all time and I have adored each addition to this marvellous world.
Extinction Aftermath continues on from the epic story of the end of the world, variants and the strongest people you will ever know. I can tell you that I had an absolute blast reading book six in the Extinction series and was truly captivated by this instalment. I was amazed once again by Nicholas Sansbury Smith’s most accomplished writing which I could not put down.
Being able to join team ghost once again and follow them on this thrilling ride through the wider Extinction world was fantastic. One thing that I love about a Nicholas Sansbury Smith book is that you are always guaranteed to get an exciting story filled with authentic characters, thrills, surprises, suspense and genuine emotion. Aftermath was all of this and more. I could not be happier that there is another glorious story within this universe. I truly cannot wait for more exciting stories to come. Well done Mr Smith.
If you haven’t already come across this series I highly recommend that you do give it ago. You will be taken on the ride of your life and perhaps become as captivated as myself.
Note: I received an advanced readers copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Extinction Aftermath continues on from the epic story of the end of the world, variants and the strongest people you will ever know. I can tell you that I had an absolute blast reading book six in the Extinction series and was truly captivated by this instalment. I was amazed once again by Nicholas Sansbury Smith’s most accomplished writing which I could not put down.
Being able to join team ghost once again and follow them on this thrilling ride through the wider Extinction world was fantastic. One thing that I love about a Nicholas Sansbury Smith book is that you are always guaranteed to get an exciting story filled with authentic characters, thrills, surprises, suspense and genuine emotion. Aftermath was all of this and more. I could not be happier that there is another glorious story within this universe. I truly cannot wait for more exciting stories to come. Well done Mr Smith.
If you haven’t already come across this series I highly recommend that you do give it ago. You will be taken on the ride of your life and perhaps become as captivated as myself.
Note: I received an advanced readers copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
November 4, 2016
When I read book 5, I thought that was the end and I was ok with it. It has a somewhat happy ending and you can imagine the characters' futures. Basically - closure.
However, when I saw that a new book in the series was out, I jumped to download it. I love this story and the writing. Unlike other similar series, I feel I can put those down for the night and continue the next day; these books make me so tired the next day because I just can't stop. They are also the scariest books I ever read. So, I guess I need to get ready for being immersed in this post-apocalyptic world again.
*Minor spoilers* I debated between 4 and 5 stars because there seemed to be more clichés in this book than I am used to with the series - the insanely crazy megalomaniac bad guy, the good guys who always seem to escape insurmountable odds (especially the end), the love story with constant bickering thrown in, the idiot citizens preferring to believe a madman than their savior, the genius scientist with no common sense.... I found some of these storylines to be predictable. And I still, still can't understand why they continue to spread their forces so thin when waging this war - fighting battles on multiple fronts. I'm really hoping that there is a reason why the military intelligence planning these operations seem to be hurting rather than helping - it seems like there might be.
Ultimately, though, this is by far my favorite ZA series and one of the best series I've ever read, so that's enough for me!
However, when I saw that a new book in the series was out, I jumped to download it. I love this story and the writing. Unlike other similar series, I feel I can put those down for the night and continue the next day; these books make me so tired the next day because I just can't stop. They are also the scariest books I ever read. So, I guess I need to get ready for being immersed in this post-apocalyptic world again.
*Minor spoilers* I debated between 4 and 5 stars because there seemed to be more clichés in this book than I am used to with the series - the insanely crazy megalomaniac bad guy, the good guys who always seem to escape insurmountable odds (especially the end), the love story with constant bickering thrown in, the idiot citizens preferring to believe a madman than their savior, the genius scientist with no common sense.... I found some of these storylines to be predictable. And I still, still can't understand why they continue to spread their forces so thin when waging this war - fighting battles on multiple fronts. I'm really hoping that there is a reason why the military intelligence planning these operations seem to be hurting rather than helping - it seems like there might be.
Ultimately, though, this is by far my favorite ZA series and one of the best series I've ever read, so that's enough for me!
March 24, 2017
Go figure I’d give another Sansbury Smith novel 5 stars. I just love his blend of sci-fi and horror and his ability to be so descriptive but not to the point of boredom. I was a little nervous starting this book given that I’ve gotten so close to the Beckham and Lovato as the main characters of the story, and Beckham being the leader of Team Ghost. In this installment we see Fitz take of the mantel and provide a whole new Ghost team to get behind.
It truly didn’t take long for me to get into this story as with all his books. The craziness that’s going on in Europe is a great addition to the Variant story and just gets scarier and scarier as the scope of this “infestation” is further understood. There’s also no shortage of death and depression in this book, as with every book in this series. I was especially moved by a new character introduced in France (I apologize, I waited too long to review this and now can’t remember his name), and his new pet. Their story was breaking my freaking heart and I ALMOST shed tears in that part more than any other part in this series so far.
All said and done this may end up being the longest series I’ve ever read. 7 books is typically my max and then I call it quits, but Nicholas is just keeping me hooked and I doubt I’ll stop reading until he stops writing.
If you haven’t read this series, and are a fan of post-apocalyptic horror/sci-fi, you are seriously missing out and need to get on the Nicholas wagon soon!
Received a copy from the author in exchange for my honest review.
It truly didn’t take long for me to get into this story as with all his books. The craziness that’s going on in Europe is a great addition to the Variant story and just gets scarier and scarier as the scope of this “infestation” is further understood. There’s also no shortage of death and depression in this book, as with every book in this series. I was especially moved by a new character introduced in France (I apologize, I waited too long to review this and now can’t remember his name), and his new pet. Their story was breaking my freaking heart and I ALMOST shed tears in that part more than any other part in this series so far.
All said and done this may end up being the longest series I’ve ever read. 7 books is typically my max and then I call it quits, but Nicholas is just keeping me hooked and I doubt I’ll stop reading until he stops writing.
If you haven’t read this series, and are a fan of post-apocalyptic horror/sci-fi, you are seriously missing out and need to get on the Nicholas wagon soon!
Received a copy from the author in exchange for my honest review.
October 10, 2016
I loved the return of Team Ghost set in Europe! The Extinction world that Nicholas has created is one full of excitement, action, and good old monster killing which we all love in this genera. I was so excited when I found out there would be a 6th book in the series and I was not disappointed in the slightest. We are introduced to new heroes in Europe and get to see our favorite Team Ghost members in action. While I thought the variants in America were horrible, I hope you are prepared for their cousins across the pond - they are true nightmares. Another reason I enjoyed Aftermath (and the entire series), is it doesn't get bogged down in hyper-militaristic details. Nicholas has enough to make it enjoyable for his military readers and makes those of us non-military readers feel 'part of the action'. The characters continue to grow in depth and face their individual challenges making them very human and real with their flaws. I want to say a lot more but would be spoiling it - so you'll just have to get your own copy and enter the world of this fantastic series. Be sure to start with the book that started it all Extinction Horizon (The Extinction Cycle) (Volume 1).
I hope you are prepared for an exciting, bloody, and fearsome adventure! Keep them coming Nicholas. Highly recommended.
I hope you are prepared for an exciting, bloody, and fearsome adventure! Keep them coming Nicholas. Highly recommended.
November 1, 2016
Extinction Aftermath delivers the seemingly impossible by kicking the 6th instalment of the Extinction Cycle into a another gear. Somehow Nicholas Sansbury Smith has managed to cram more action, thrills and gore into an already jam packed narrative.
This book is a fantastic addition to the Extinction Cylce serious. Just when you think the plight of the human race can't get any worse along comes it's biggest threat yet. There is some very interesting character developments that change up the story to the readers advantage. When you add this to some truly frightening new variants entertainment is bound to follow.
Nicholas Sansbury Smith is cementing his spot as one of the best break out authors of the year. He has delivered yet another sublime book. When you combine this with the other first class reads he has produced in a short time and you can see what all the fuss is about.
This book is a fantastic addition to the Extinction Cylce serious. Just when you think the plight of the human race can't get any worse along comes it's biggest threat yet. There is some very interesting character developments that change up the story to the readers advantage. When you add this to some truly frightening new variants entertainment is bound to follow.
Nicholas Sansbury Smith is cementing his spot as one of the best break out authors of the year. He has delivered yet another sublime book. When you combine this with the other first class reads he has produced in a short time and you can see what all the fuss is about.
December 11, 2017
When I think Smith can't top the previous book in a series, he turns around and shows me just what stuff he's made of. Bigger and better monsters, a dastardly villain who is seriously insane, and of course, Team Ghost and their friends, who as always try to hold the line. What more could I ask for? I simply devoured this book.
This is an author with a fantastic imagination, and the story isn't all that far-fetched, which makes it all the more chilling. If these are Nick's "daymares", I hate to know what his nightmares are like! Now I truly cannot wait for the next book!
This is an author with a fantastic imagination, and the story isn't all that far-fetched, which makes it all the more chilling. If these are Nick's "daymares", I hate to know what his nightmares are like! Now I truly cannot wait for the next book!
October 7, 2016
Fans of Nicholas Sansbury Smith’s Extinction Cycle series have reason to rejoice today. Nick’s hallmark gut-punching action and strong characterization continues. This is not a series that allows the reader to relax for more than a few brief pages. And while the previous five books were every bit as well crafted as Aftermath, this story affected me on a more visceral level. For every step forward, fate seemed to smack them two steps back.
This fierce rollercoaster ride is one you don’t want to miss. Highly recommended!
This fierce rollercoaster ride is one you don’t want to miss. Highly recommended!
November 12, 2016
Tapping out
That was the sound you heard. All of these monster versus military books take some suspension of belief, but when a third party bad guy shows up, better armed than the military and has followers who think it's a good idea to kill more humans without any real benefit to them but their leaders revenge, we venture into a world of real disbelief.
That was the sound you heard. All of these monster versus military books take some suspension of belief, but when a third party bad guy shows up, better armed than the military and has followers who think it's a good idea to kill more humans without any real benefit to them but their leaders revenge, we venture into a world of real disbelief.
November 10, 2017
Okay-just when you think the world has hope of defeating the monsters, more diabolical twists and turns leave you hanging on the edge of your seat! This one is just like all the amazing others-tons of action and suspense, you are rooting for your favorites and stunned by all the horror. I literally have pre-ordered Extinction War because I cannot wait to read the next one!
July 19, 2020
4,5 ⭐ ich bin gespannt wie das ganze im letzten Teil dann ausgeht 😲
December 10, 2021
Book 6 finds us several months in the future after the end of book 5. The book has us following several characters, including Reed, Kate, Fitz, Davis, and a new character, Sergeant Piero Angaran of the Italian military.
Reed Beckham is now a Captain in this book. Having suffered serious injuries at the end of the last book, he is also retired to Plum Island. Through him we get a glimpse of a somewhat stabilized post apocalyptic community. Unfortunately for Plum Island and the recovering United States under President Jan Ringgold, a new threat arises in America and it's human.
Over in Europe Master Sergeant Joe Fitzpatrick is leading the new Team Ghost as thousands of US troops invade Europe to help the European nations fight the Variants. Unfortunately for Fitz and his fellow Marines, the Variants in Europe have had longer to mutate. Some of the bizarre Variants faced include the flying Reavers, the underground Wormers, and the giant, armored Black Beetle. The new Variants and the new front in the fight with the Variants added a breath of fresh air.
Captain Rachel Davis has been given command of the George Washington aircraft carrier. She is supporting efforts to retake and rebuild the US when the new threat shows up. She loses control of her ship and spends her time trying to find her way back aboard with a small team of Marines at her side.
Sergeant Piero Angaran was an interesting new perspective. He starts off with a fellow soldier in the city of Rome, but soon finds himself to be all alone. He spends the majority of the book hiding in the tunnels below the city. His only companion is a small mouse he had intended to eat at first. He has no interactions with any of the other characters in the book and spends almost the entire book believing he is the last man left alive in the world. He survives the story and even sees American planes at the end of the book. I am curious to see how his journey ends in the next book.
There were a few things with the book that didn't sit well with me. ROT, the new human enemies, and their leader, Lieutenant Andrew Wood, seemed a little off. The characters referring to them as terrorists also broke the immersion of the story for me.
The way in which the US government and the US have survived the apocalypse has also started to pull me out of immersion. It's hard to imagine the infrastructure needed to support a modern military would be intact enough. Even though I enjoy the new European sections of the book, it was hard to imagine putting together an invasion of thousands of men supported by tanks, aircraft, and ships being possible months after the apocalypse wiped out the majority of the population.
Despite these immersion issues, I still enjoyed what was on offer in this book. Certainly worth reading for anyone who has spent time reading through the series.
Reed Beckham is now a Captain in this book. Having suffered serious injuries at the end of the last book, he is also retired to Plum Island. Through him we get a glimpse of a somewhat stabilized post apocalyptic community. Unfortunately for Plum Island and the recovering United States under President Jan Ringgold, a new threat arises in America and it's human.
Over in Europe Master Sergeant Joe Fitzpatrick is leading the new Team Ghost as thousands of US troops invade Europe to help the European nations fight the Variants. Unfortunately for Fitz and his fellow Marines, the Variants in Europe have had longer to mutate. Some of the bizarre Variants faced include the flying Reavers, the underground Wormers, and the giant, armored Black Beetle. The new Variants and the new front in the fight with the Variants added a breath of fresh air.
Captain Rachel Davis has been given command of the George Washington aircraft carrier. She is supporting efforts to retake and rebuild the US when the new threat shows up. She loses control of her ship and spends her time trying to find her way back aboard with a small team of Marines at her side.
Sergeant Piero Angaran was an interesting new perspective. He starts off with a fellow soldier in the city of Rome, but soon finds himself to be all alone. He spends the majority of the book hiding in the tunnels below the city. His only companion is a small mouse he had intended to eat at first. He has no interactions with any of the other characters in the book and spends almost the entire book believing he is the last man left alive in the world. He survives the story and even sees American planes at the end of the book. I am curious to see how his journey ends in the next book.
There were a few things with the book that didn't sit well with me. ROT, the new human enemies, and their leader, Lieutenant Andrew Wood, seemed a little off. The characters referring to them as terrorists also broke the immersion of the story for me.
The way in which the US government and the US have survived the apocalypse has also started to pull me out of immersion. It's hard to imagine the infrastructure needed to support a modern military would be intact enough. Even though I enjoy the new European sections of the book, it was hard to imagine putting together an invasion of thousands of men supported by tanks, aircraft, and ships being possible months after the apocalypse wiped out the majority of the population.
Despite these immersion issues, I still enjoyed what was on offer in this book. Certainly worth reading for anyone who has spent time reading through the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 7, 2020
A good solid 4-star read ... if not another perplexingly difficult book to judge... no wrong word... absorb?
First and foremost, NSS keeps the series running despite splitting up the usual teams. Is the new Team Ghost as good as the previous incarnation? Hell, no, but they manage. Can Fitz carry a battle scene either in terms of action or the thoughts in his head. Again, no, but he manages. Even the scenes with Beckham and Lovato and Tank and the rest of the Plum Islanders aren't the same as before but it still works. You still hang on every word, every cliff-hanging end of a chapter and more. And if you're like me, you read until the wee hours of the morning, the next days responsibilities be damned.
HOWEVER... what is so ... confusing? about this whole series - and here I compare it to the magnficence of the 'Trackers' and 'Hell Divers' books (ok, I admit it, 'Orbs' wasn't the best I've read) - is I don't see any chance of success. I honestly do not understand how these people continue to survive. Either they continue to make really bone-headed mistakes - um, folks, do NOT let 100 refugees out at the same time while you're screening them. Oh and if you don't see the Variants, they are always and I do mean always going to come up out of the sewers. I really don't even know with what all has been added to the story-line - which quickly becomes not only a continuation of previous books but also adds the horrors of 'Starship Troopers' to boot - how there's a single living human left on the planet. Our Italian friend seems to have the clearest thoughts about this in thinking that yes, he may in fact be the last human alive. THAT at least makes sense!
But I will give props to NSS where they are due. Again, he takes a lot of the back-up crew from before (or 'survivors' as they're known) and puts them in some really great (?) situations to test
their meddle. The characterizations - as I've said now for 7 straight books (including book 0) - carry the day. Even if I don't always like or agree with how they develop, he still manages to make them do so, even if I don't think they had/have/will have/will have had a chance to get out of the predicaments they were written into. And yes, we kill off some more folks we've been following before or new heroes that we wanted more from. No surprises there.
Bottom line is that it works, it leaves you breathless and you continue to slap down your hard-earned cash because goddamn you HAVE to find out what happens next. The ending set up of this one may have been the best of them all so far.... but I still think they're all seriously fudged and it's time to let the cockroaches have a shot at things...
First and foremost, NSS keeps the series running despite splitting up the usual teams. Is the new Team Ghost as good as the previous incarnation? Hell, no, but they manage. Can Fitz carry a battle scene either in terms of action or the thoughts in his head. Again, no, but he manages. Even the scenes with Beckham and Lovato and Tank and the rest of the Plum Islanders aren't the same as before but it still works. You still hang on every word, every cliff-hanging end of a chapter and more. And if you're like me, you read until the wee hours of the morning, the next days responsibilities be damned.
HOWEVER... what is so ... confusing? about this whole series - and here I compare it to the magnficence of the 'Trackers' and 'Hell Divers' books (ok, I admit it, 'Orbs' wasn't the best I've read) - is I don't see any chance of success. I honestly do not understand how these people continue to survive. Either they continue to make really bone-headed mistakes - um, folks, do NOT let 100 refugees out at the same time while you're screening them. Oh and if you don't see the Variants, they are always and I do mean always going to come up out of the sewers. I really don't even know with what all has been added to the story-line - which quickly becomes not only a continuation of previous books but also adds the horrors of 'Starship Troopers' to boot - how there's a single living human left on the planet. Our Italian friend seems to have the clearest thoughts about this in thinking that yes, he may in fact be the last human alive. THAT at least makes sense!
But I will give props to NSS where they are due. Again, he takes a lot of the back-up crew from before (or 'survivors' as they're known) and puts them in some really great (?) situations to test
their meddle. The characterizations - as I've said now for 7 straight books (including book 0) - carry the day. Even if I don't always like or agree with how they develop, he still manages to make them do so, even if I don't think they had/have/will have/will have had a chance to get out of the predicaments they were written into. And yes, we kill off some more folks we've been following before or new heroes that we wanted more from. No surprises there.
Bottom line is that it works, it leaves you breathless and you continue to slap down your hard-earned cash because goddamn you HAVE to find out what happens next. The ending set up of this one may have been the best of them all so far.... but I still think they're all seriously fudged and it's time to let the cockroaches have a shot at things...
July 28, 2017
Aftermath wasn't the book I was expecting but not in a bad way. The first five books in the Extinction Series where about the variants and the war with them. This sixth book in the series is a departure from that formula which I found refreshing. Though there are some very breathtaking battle sequences in this book in Europe this book was more about transitioning forward with the series by placing the series down a new and exciting path. In this book the variants have a very big roll however they are secondary to a story about the human factor in the Extinction World. Characters we've come to care about are tested both physically and mentally through out the entire book which I found made this book the most compelling of the series so far. This approach did nothing to take away from the series at all, in fact for me it helped make the characters seem more real. We get to see characters doubt themselves, refuse to give up, feel genuine fear, become frustrated, and angry. All while homage is paid to the men and women who serve in the United States Military with characters that have the same attitude of self sacrifice for the greater good of one's country that many in uniform have. These things are most poignantly illustrated when it comes to the character of Reed Beckham who faces the same feelings that many middle aged men feel which allowed me to relate to his character the most. He has suffered both in body and soul at the hands of the variants and the war to save his country. He came back from that war different both in mind and body. It is the scars of the final battle in Washington DC that have come to remind him that he isn't the man he used to be, his mind and heart are of a Delta Force operator but his body has been beaten up and broken forcing him to have to adapt when new threats to the country he loves emerge and he must put aside his doubts about the warrior he once was and embrace the warrior he still is which leads us all to a dramatic cliffhanger ending as Reed Beckham the retired soldier is pulled into yet another life or death fight against a threat to both those he loves and the country he loves once more. A cliffhanger that will leave readers eager for the next great book in this awesome series.
November 15, 2016
My original Extinction Aftermath audiobook review and many others can be found at Audiobook Reviewer.
Extinction Aftermath (The Extinction Cycle Book 6) by Nicholas Sansbury Smith is well worth the wait! Not only do we see Delta Force Team Ghost’s Master Sergeant Fitz take lead but he helps to storm the beach in Normandy to help eradicate the European Variants that have been left to grow, mutate and become even more deadlier than the ones in the US.
Beckham and Horn are in retirement and not really enjoying it. So when President Gringhold calls upon them for a special project, they jump at the opportunity to re-engage. There’s another new bad-ass guy in the US hoping to take down the fragile government and doesn’t really care about the recovery of the US. Time will only tell who is worse – the Variants or him!
The new monsters in Europe are … well, more terrifying than what we’ve heard before. This book is particularly gruesome and pulls on the heartstrings and ripping them out. If you love horror and Team Ghost – this is the book for you. This is not for the squeamish or soft-hearted.
Smith is a vivid storyteller that describes everything in rich detail eking out each terrifying moment. His characters are fully developed – even the ones that have a brief appearance. Action packed and riveting. This tells the story of what happens in the US afterwards and what happens in Europe when there is no coordination of efforts.
I enjoyed listening Bronson Pinchot. He is a wonderful narrator capturing the character traits of each character and making them come alive with tone, and excitement. Mr. Pinchot makes the book come alive as only a top-notch narrator can. His tone is calming but when he speeds up and adds in the excited emotions, it only gets better.
There were no issues with the production of this audiobook.
Audiobook was provided for review by the author.
Extinction Aftermath (The Extinction Cycle Book 6) by Nicholas Sansbury Smith is well worth the wait! Not only do we see Delta Force Team Ghost’s Master Sergeant Fitz take lead but he helps to storm the beach in Normandy to help eradicate the European Variants that have been left to grow, mutate and become even more deadlier than the ones in the US.
Beckham and Horn are in retirement and not really enjoying it. So when President Gringhold calls upon them for a special project, they jump at the opportunity to re-engage. There’s another new bad-ass guy in the US hoping to take down the fragile government and doesn’t really care about the recovery of the US. Time will only tell who is worse – the Variants or him!
The new monsters in Europe are … well, more terrifying than what we’ve heard before. This book is particularly gruesome and pulls on the heartstrings and ripping them out. If you love horror and Team Ghost – this is the book for you. This is not for the squeamish or soft-hearted.
Smith is a vivid storyteller that describes everything in rich detail eking out each terrifying moment. His characters are fully developed – even the ones that have a brief appearance. Action packed and riveting. This tells the story of what happens in the US afterwards and what happens in Europe when there is no coordination of efforts.
I enjoyed listening Bronson Pinchot. He is a wonderful narrator capturing the character traits of each character and making them come alive with tone, and excitement. Mr. Pinchot makes the book come alive as only a top-notch narrator can. His tone is calming but when he speeds up and adds in the excited emotions, it only gets better.
There were no issues with the production of this audiobook.
Audiobook was provided for review by the author.
January 10, 2019
How do you continue a series that had a definite and satisfying ending?
This is what I kept asking myself between book 5 and starting on book 6. I was worried that perhaps the previous ending might have completely sealed the fate of suspense and various challenges for our heroes. I was essentially worried that perhaps, based on what they had already gone through, anything new might have been a cakewalk for them.
Boy, was I wrong.
The book expands a lot into what's happening in Europe. We get to travel in the various wastelands there and explore new variations of the creatures adding an interesting spin to the series. Previous solutions no longer work. It certainly appears at first glance that brute force is the only way to push forward and liberate some of the famous cities that have fallen to the infected.
Back home peace is disturbed from another evil: a human. While this is familiar to the other books in the series where the monsters are not simply those that were infected or the juveniles, this new Bad Guy ups the ante completely. I would say that all previous villains had some kind of disturbed notion of how to become the savior of the human race that was guiding their actions. This dude simply does not care. All he cares about is revenge. His mind is so clouded that the variants simply are akin to a rat infestation that can be dealt with later (if not at all) while he is bend on taking down his adversaries.
Hopefully I am not giving away a huge spoiler by saying that the ending is a set up for book 7, a common practice among authors that create serialized sagas. Having gone through the book via Audible and being able to simply continue on with the next book seemed effortless and quite pleasing to my ever-increasing need to find out what's next for Team Ghost.
So another excellent book. Looking forward to the next one as always.
This is what I kept asking myself between book 5 and starting on book 6. I was worried that perhaps the previous ending might have completely sealed the fate of suspense and various challenges for our heroes. I was essentially worried that perhaps, based on what they had already gone through, anything new might have been a cakewalk for them.
Boy, was I wrong.
The book expands a lot into what's happening in Europe. We get to travel in the various wastelands there and explore new variations of the creatures adding an interesting spin to the series. Previous solutions no longer work. It certainly appears at first glance that brute force is the only way to push forward and liberate some of the famous cities that have fallen to the infected.
Back home peace is disturbed from another evil: a human. While this is familiar to the other books in the series where the monsters are not simply those that were infected or the juveniles, this new Bad Guy ups the ante completely. I would say that all previous villains had some kind of disturbed notion of how to become the savior of the human race that was guiding their actions. This dude simply does not care. All he cares about is revenge. His mind is so clouded that the variants simply are akin to a rat infestation that can be dealt with later (if not at all) while he is bend on taking down his adversaries.
Hopefully I am not giving away a huge spoiler by saying that the ending is a set up for book 7, a common practice among authors that create serialized sagas. Having gone through the book via Audible and being able to simply continue on with the next book seemed effortless and quite pleasing to my ever-increasing need to find out what's next for Team Ghost.
So another excellent book. Looking forward to the next one as always.
July 31, 2020
SPOILERS
3.5 stars. I had a suspicion this book wasn’t of the caliber of the first 5 when I found myself putting it down for long stretches of time. But I trusted NSS to weave his magic, so I kept reading. The series is still readable and it wasn’t till near the end of this book that I finally decided it wasn’t quit as good as the first five. In order to explain the 3.5 rating, I had to include some spoilers.
SPOILERS: 1 there’s a random Italian dude that traverses Rome with his pet mouse, not sure what that’s about.
2 Beckham is a mere shadow of his former self...NSS, why did you take his hand, why wasn’t his leg enough for you.
3 the unrelenting bromance.
4 the internal guilt trips had me wondering if all the characters were Catholics in a former life.
5 the bad guys so competent at every turn, why because
6 the good guys made unbelievably stupid mistakes. Example: Ellis, smart double doctorate CDC super science dude. One minute he’s saying how he could handle himself because he’d been practicing—then suddenly has explosive mouth diarrhea that costs him his life.
Additionally, truly I never understood why Europe when the north and South American contents were still struggling. Why couldn’t we just send arms and supples instead of solders we couldn’t spare. And where did all the arms come from anyway when our cities and society was in collapse.
Near the end, I found myself skimming paragraphs just so I could get through the book. I’d say I wasn’t going to read the next but I will for closure because this book leaves everything hanging. Do yourself a favor and stop at book five where Beckham gets to retire a hero and the future is looking hopeful.
3.5 stars. I had a suspicion this book wasn’t of the caliber of the first 5 when I found myself putting it down for long stretches of time. But I trusted NSS to weave his magic, so I kept reading. The series is still readable and it wasn’t till near the end of this book that I finally decided it wasn’t quit as good as the first five. In order to explain the 3.5 rating, I had to include some spoilers.
SPOILERS: 1 there’s a random Italian dude that traverses Rome with his pet mouse, not sure what that’s about.
2 Beckham is a mere shadow of his former self...NSS, why did you take his hand, why wasn’t his leg enough for you.
3 the unrelenting bromance.
4 the internal guilt trips had me wondering if all the characters were Catholics in a former life.
5 the bad guys so competent at every turn, why because
6 the good guys made unbelievably stupid mistakes. Example: Ellis, smart double doctorate CDC super science dude. One minute he’s saying how he could handle himself because he’d been practicing—then suddenly has explosive mouth diarrhea that costs him his life.
Additionally, truly I never understood why Europe when the north and South American contents were still struggling. Why couldn’t we just send arms and supples instead of solders we couldn’t spare. And where did all the arms come from anyway when our cities and society was in collapse.
Near the end, I found myself skimming paragraphs just so I could get through the book. I’d say I wasn’t going to read the next but I will for closure because this book leaves everything hanging. Do yourself a favor and stop at book five where Beckham gets to retire a hero and the future is looking hopeful.
July 12, 2025
From the moment I cracked open Extinction Aftermath, I knew I wasn’t going to get much sleep. The battlefield has shifted—Europe is now a war-torn hellscape crawling with Variants, and watching Master Sergeant Fitzpatrick lead Team Ghost into the fire felt like being dropped into a heart-pounding war documentary on steroids. Meanwhile, back on U.S. soil, Beckham and Lovato are trying to find peace, but peace doesn’t last long in this world. Smith throws us right into the chaos with a pace that feels like it’s powered by adrenaline and dread.
What struck me most wasn’t just the action (though it’s some of the most intense in the series), but how raw and human these characters have become. Beckham is still a beast on the battlefield, but there’s a vulnerability now, a weight from everything he’s lost. And Lovato—she’s no longer just the scientist; she’s a survivor with fire in her veins. Every page felt like it was sharpening the stakes, showing us that no one is truly safe—not even the ones we’ve come to root for since book one. There were moments where I caught myself holding my breath, just waiting for the next gut punch.
By the time I turned the last page, I was left rattled in the best way. Extinction Aftermath doesn’t just continue the story—it explodes it. The horrors are evolving, the enemies are getting smarter, and the moral lines are getting blurred. Smith ends it with a cliffhanger that left me shouting at the book like it could hear me. If you’ve been riding this nightmare train from the start, this book will both satisfy and haunt you. It’s brutal, brilliant, and exactly what I didn’t know I needed next.
What struck me most wasn’t just the action (though it’s some of the most intense in the series), but how raw and human these characters have become. Beckham is still a beast on the battlefield, but there’s a vulnerability now, a weight from everything he’s lost. And Lovato—she’s no longer just the scientist; she’s a survivor with fire in her veins. Every page felt like it was sharpening the stakes, showing us that no one is truly safe—not even the ones we’ve come to root for since book one. There were moments where I caught myself holding my breath, just waiting for the next gut punch.
By the time I turned the last page, I was left rattled in the best way. Extinction Aftermath doesn’t just continue the story—it explodes it. The horrors are evolving, the enemies are getting smarter, and the moral lines are getting blurred. Smith ends it with a cliffhanger that left me shouting at the book like it could hear me. If you’ve been riding this nightmare train from the start, this book will both satisfy and haunt you. It’s brutal, brilliant, and exactly what I didn’t know I needed next.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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