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Blackout #4

Shiloh Ranch

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I survived because the fire inside me burned brighter than the fire around me. ~ Madison Ryman

The strongest emotion of man is fear and ...
Fear of the unknown is the greatest fear of all.
Could you face fear head on?
Can you forget all those moments when you thought you wouldn't survive, but did?

This fast-paced post apocalyptic dystopian fiction series from author Bobby Akart (The Boston Brahmin series and the Prepping for Tomorrow series), has been hailed as a masterpiece of EMP survival fiction. Prepare to learn, as well as be entertained as The Blackout Series continues with SHILOH RANCH.
This critically acclaimed post apocalyptic EMP fiction series continues with the release of SHILOH RANCH. After a perilous journey replete with highs and lows around every turn, the Rymans reach their destination only to face guns pointing at them from all directions. Did they make a mistake? Should they have stayed home where familiar surroundings may have outweighed the threats closing in on them?

They quickly learn that there is one constant in a post-apocalyptic world - the threat from their fellow man.

In book one of this new post-apocalyptic survival fiction series, 36 HOURS, the reader was provided a glimpse into the rapid decline of society once word of the catastrophic solar flare racing towards Earth began to spread.

Book two, ZERO HOUR, thrust our characters into the perils of a post apocalyptic world. At Zero Hour, an EMP caused by a massive solar flare left America in darkness. The Ryman family, who weren't preppers, applied common sense, logic, and a will to survive to their decision-making as they faced their death, their neighbors, and the depravity of man.

In book three, TURNING POINT, the characters face a life altering decision - should we stay or should we go? The oldest and strongest emotion in man is fear, and the strongest kind of fear is fear of the unknown. Will American's flee the urban centers, the proverbial golden hordes, for the countryside? Will it be safer than the cities? TURNING POINT will lead the Ryman family into a complex, inexplicable world where danger lurks around every bend.

Note: This book does not contain strong language. It is intended to entertain and inform audiences of all ages, including teen and young adults. Although some scenes depict the realistic threat our nation faces from a devastating solar flare, and the societal collapse which will result in the aftermath, it does not contain graphic scenes typical of other books in the post apocalyptic genre.

BOOKS IN THE BLACKOUT SERIES:

BOOK ONE: 36 Hours
BOOK TWO: Zero Hour
BOOK THREE: Turning Point
BOOK FOUR: Shiloh Ranch
BOOK FIVE: Hornet's Nest
BOOK SIX: Devil's Homecoming

186 pages, Audible Audio

Published February 15, 2017

736 people are currently reading
129 people want to read

About the author

Bobby Akart

100 books407 followers
International bestselling author, Bobby Akart, one of America's favorite storytellers, delivers up-all-night thrillers to readers in 245 countries and territories worldwide. He's achieved Amazon Top 5 Author status in both fiction and non-fiction genres, Amazon Kindle All Star and Top 50 Amazon Author (#35) and Top 25 Best Selling Book on Amazon Charts (Yellowstone #25).

"He's right up there with James Patterson, David Baldacci, Brad Thor and others that write thrillers. To me he actually surpasses them.”

He has written more than 80 novels in the disaster, survival, medical and political thriller genres.

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5 stars
496 (58%)
4 stars
236 (27%)
3 stars
101 (11%)
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13 (1%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
8 reviews
August 11, 2017
Short book

This was very disappointing. The book was nothing but filler to sell more books! The other books were good reads that made sense of when to end. This was a revenue book.
99 reviews1 follower
February 5, 2017
Starting to drag

Still worth reading, but the lectures on life are slowing the story down. Probably half of a book's action. Hopefully it picks up some in the next book.
Profile Image for Maggie Deaton.
757 reviews4 followers
September 10, 2020
The Hornet's Nest is up next - and it is only 2 a.m. So I am going to start it.... I have to know if "jennie" gets rescued and by whom....

Geez, Louise.... You would think one of these books would be a "floor slapper" rather than a cliff hanger! ? No way, not today. So, here I go get again hooked right on in to the NEXT in the series...One very hot teenaged daughter of the family fleeing Atlanta to the safety of Shiloh Ranch has managed to fall into the hands of Sheriff Buford Pusser's descendants who have taken advantage of the collapse of society and real law enforcement to set up their own personal brothel made up of all the appealing females in all the close towns as well as their own... What few men and boys were not shot or executed, we forced to work in the stone quarry or the crop fields and kept isolated from their family. Meanwhile, all property has come into the hands of Ma and her son...the sheriff ....and that includes the living as well as the inanimate. Now, the two boys who are hoping to get "the girl" out safely and into her father's arms as each is hoping to impress her with their "abilities"while her father and his friend (and father of one of the two boys) simply wants her back safely with him and her Mother...Oh and their assistance in pulling of this "breakout" ???? Quite plain and simply, a high school coach and his champion high school football team.... Oh and let's not forget the fathers of two of the teenagers,an aging country western singing star and his agent who took him to the pinnacles of success and on to retirement and now has reappeared fleeing the lawlessness of Atlanta after the grid failed and right into the scenes of a bad Hollywood film in a small town equally as lawless and dangerous and run solely by the descendants of the infamous "Sheriff Buford Pusser" ... Yup, out of the frying pan and into the fire! More later as the clicking is ticking and my eyelids are heavy but cannot stop now! This series is wonderful but sleep is becoming just a fine memory !!!So,let me get it done!!!!
Profile Image for Jenny.
630 reviews5 followers
April 27, 2023
Although I am a fan of this author and invested in this series, this book was definitely a struggle for me. I've read/listened to thousands of books in my life thus far and have only DNF'd a handful of books. It's a character quirk of mine. I must finish once I start a book, movie, show, etc. I am not sure why the author chose to change the narrator half-way through the series, but I can't imagine it would be a good enough reason in my eyes. Replacing a narrator midway through is like trying to replace a lead character in a popular TV show three seasons in. People are not going to be accepting of it. It throws the chemistry off, the vibe. Which is what happened here. The narrators job is to add a new level to the authors words. Giving the reader more emotion and a way to form a deeper connection with the characters. Not only did the change throw the vibe off, this narrator was much different. His monotone voice seemed to do the opposite. Instead of adding layers to the characters and storyline, I feel he took those layers away and made this book fall flat.
The actual premise of the book was good. There wasn't as much as action as previous books but there was definitely tension building in multiple plot threads and the author set the tone for some upcoming action in future books. By the end of the book I found the narrator a bit more tolerable, but if he had been the original narrator, I don't think I would've continued the audio version of these books, I would've stopped listening and purchased the books to read myself.
Profile Image for Rebekah.
38 reviews
November 23, 2021
Meh

I love Akhart’s books and book series, and this series was good up until this book. It felt redundant. The characters and personalities the same from previous books I’ve read. It was supposed to be (I think?) my 154th book this year, but I couldn’t bring myself to finish it.
I’d also like to note, there is a creative license to writing and fictional character development is, to me, considered free speech. Yet, I did not like the mention of racial quirks and announcement of being a stout republican from some of the main characters, one in particular. I consider myself middle of the road a bit of blue and red in my veins and it rubbed me the wrong way. A character is a character in a book, but when I read this genre, obv it’s catered towards my conservative side of the road and that’s ok but I’ve never had an author just blast it out there along with making liberals/democrats seem weak.
I get enough politics outside my books, I don’t want it in my books… and that’s my freedom of choice. Others may like the references and whatnot.
Profile Image for Sabrina.
452 reviews10 followers
January 17, 2017
Another great addition to 'The Blackout Series' by Mr. Akart!

The Ryman family have finally found their friends and a place of safety in this grid down world. Now they can relax with people of a similar mindset in this new world in a peaceful and safe spot. Or is it?.....

After all of the adventures, obstacles, and dangers that the family have persevered through, is their survival now guaranteed?

Nope.

Not at all.

The depravity of a rotting humanity will always be a threat. And when the basic rule of law is gone....the criminals will thrive.

An excellent story that kept me reading until the book was done! I just couldn't stop. The entire series is filled with such defined characters, and while outlining the violence and evil of a collapsed world, the story does not delve into vulgarity and curses. An exciting story that even my twelve-year-old enjoys! Now I just have to wait for the next installment.... Very well done!
Profile Image for Joan.
1,145 reviews7 followers
August 3, 2023
The Rymans have finally arrived at Shiloh Ranch where they are met by armed forces until their friend Jake Allen welcomes them with open arms. After the solar flare and blackout the ranch has changed, they have cattle but also dairy cows, a huge garden, more farmhands and other upgrades to survive. The Rymans recount their harrowing journey to Jake, his wife Emily, son Jake, the manger Stubby and his wife Bessie. They find out that the people on the ranch are also concerned about the threat from Savannah, flooding from The Pickwick Landing Dam, marauders from Memphis, refugees and maybe trouble brewing from Jackson. Junior and his men come to the ranch looking for the Rymans and are told they never came there but security is raised. Later one of their own is captured while out looking for supplies and a rescue mission with help from The Tiger Resistance is a go. Can they pull it off and at what cost?
Profile Image for Soph.
189 reviews5 followers
August 21, 2018
DNF
I was reasonably impressed with book one of the series, (36 Hours), which I initially bought a few in the series because they were on sale for .99 cents, and while in-between books decided to give the series ago. While not high literature, the books are quite short and readable. I was interested enough to keep reading although, about half way through the fourth installment, I had to stop and take a good look at myself.

It was the creeping Christian right that snuck up on me and eventually made me want to set my iPad on fire. The overt sexism and racism of this series was appalling. I am mostly appalled at myself for wasting my own time
Profile Image for Nancy Silk.
Author 5 books82 followers
December 5, 2018
"Football Techniques Save A Life"

This is the 4th book of the Blackout series. This author is fantastic and knows how to captivate his readers. He always gives readers a brief outline of the previous books in the series. He's a master of EMP (Electromagnetic Pulse) from the sun which has affected the world. The Ryman family escapes from one place and arrives safely at their destination. Again, they face threats and continue to be survivors with the help of the residents in a small community. As always, Akart mixes fiction with known facts about survival. Awesome story. Highly recommend this series.
21 reviews
June 1, 2017
The tale continues

The Ryman family consisting of Colton, Madison, and their teenage daughter Alex, traveling in a beat up 69 Jeep Wagoneer, arrive at Shiloh ranch, following a harrowing flight from their Nashville home in a post apocalyptic America. For the moment, they settle into what seems to be a relatively safe environment. But trouble is brewing back in Savannah, a town turned into a martial law prison my Ma and her son Junior, the mayor and police chief. Fasten your seat belts for a thrill-packed ride.
Profile Image for Joanne.
7 reviews
March 9, 2018
Engrossing series!

This series has kept reading night after night! Following the Roman family’s exponential learning of how to survive their new way of living has taught me I need to do work on my own preparedness. on my own. I especially appreciate Mr. Akart references real items that I can actually purchase today. (I.E. Elton crank radio/Life Straws (which I actually purchased for my sons for Christmas, before I even read the books). I am definitely awake now!
Profile Image for Diane.
214 reviews
January 25, 2023
…and the beat goes on!

I am loving this series. Every page merits the determination and endurance to make a decision to survive despite the life threatening obstacles. Love how the author describes the character’s thought processes, feelings, and train of thought leading to the action taken.
Most novels miss these nuances. Bobby Akart nails it consistently!
HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS SERIES for must read thrillers!
8 reviews
February 16, 2017
OMG!!!!

What a great read. Its like the action TV show you love and go nuts because of needing to go to the restroom but can't because you don't want to miss something. This is one of the most heart pounding so far. A great series. I can't wait to see what happens next. A+ Mr. Akart
Profile Image for Tracey Mccall.
355 reviews8 followers
February 11, 2018
Bang

Another outstanding book in this series. This series is fast paced, well written and Bobby Akart has developed an amazing set of characters that you you want to follow. I am on to the next book in this series. Start this series now to find out about Madison, Alex and Colton Ryman.
3,198 reviews26 followers
January 8, 2019
A BA. SYFY. Novel About EMP. Survival/Blackout/Shiloh Ranch

BA. has. penned a SYFY. novel where Colton and his family arrive at Shiloh Ranch and are welcomed with open arms. Their problems had just been taken care of when the ones they hoped to avoid were back in front. This is an excellent read for the genre.....DEHS
181 reviews3 followers
March 15, 2017
Shiloh Ranch

Still in love with this series...The Rymans are now fighting to save Alex from Junior....I can't say too many times that I love the writing style and strong characters of Mr. Akart....kept me reading until 2am...
Profile Image for Bruce&Marsha Sarrazin.
57 reviews2 followers
October 13, 2017
One of the best EMP series I've read.

I truly like Bobby A cart writing style. I like that the main character didn't start off as "peppers." This is book 4. I've read them in tandem. All of them I've had trouble putting down.
51 reviews
October 26, 2017
Love this series

Started with 36 hours. Great story and characters. It's a post apocalyptic series with strong characters. Definitely worth reading and will continue reading the series.
34 reviews2 followers
May 4, 2018
Can't wait to read the next one!

Page-turner. Full of action and a believable storyline. Good character development and realistic reactions to the total collapse of society after a solar flare takes out the grid.
410 reviews6 followers
April 21, 2019
A good example of Bobby Akart's series.

Getting around a dangerous world after a massive EMP that hit the USA. Just trying to protect your family and live is becoming increasingly hard with gangs roaming the countryside and criminal elements who are killing and looting .
Profile Image for Endangered.
90 reviews
August 25, 2020
Each book in the series becomes more predictable, less realistic, and obviously designed to be a money maker. The entire series so far should be one read, 2 at the most. The ending points are terrible... especially in this one. Very frustrating as book 1 was promising.
Profile Image for Marilyn.
49 reviews4 followers
December 6, 2020
A New Life

Alex and her parents quickly learn what is expected of them on the ranch. The skills they are taught are important for their and others survival. Have they learned enough?
Profile Image for Lana L Fiems.
240 reviews1 follower
February 18, 2021
Book 4 of the series

First was the cme then the journey, now the enemy. Amazing how quickly civilization falls apart.
On to part four hopefully more upbeat. I like Bobby Akart books!
15 reviews1 follower
February 20, 2023
Reading fast and llng

Exciting - never a stop reading spot. Reading all night. Not wanting to see what is happening next. Exciting - never a stopping spot. Wanting to read the next line now. Not later. Exciting!!
Profile Image for history49.
281 reviews2 followers
January 1, 2019
Absolute drivel. A mix of Civil War and 1970s Sheriff Buford Pusser history made into an apocalyptic novella.
Profile Image for Michelle Burns.
80 reviews4 followers
June 27, 2017
Again, read this complete series. Buy, read, take notes, study it and act on it. The depravity of man is coming our way, will you be ready?
3 reviews1 follower
July 12, 2017
Good

Good book. The Blackout Series is worth the time to read. Good and likeable characters and a good storyline. Well done



76 reviews
August 25, 2017
Great series

I really love this series and the characters involved. Makes me thing what if and what you need to survive cause we know the gov won't be around
Profile Image for Peggy Pancherz.
1,173 reviews6 followers
February 28, 2018
Good book

Read all of the books in order to really enjoy. Characters are realistic and get better and better. Storyline continues to grow and develop.
949 reviews23 followers
January 3, 2019
Very Good.

Very nicely continued from first part of this series. Tied the first books to this one fairly seamlessly. Looking forward to the rest.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews

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