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Radio Nowhere: A Post-Apocalyptic Novel
At the end of the world, would you follow a voice to Nowhere? Zach is a tech-savvy teen who grew up in a trailer park in upstate New York. The son of a busy and hardworking single mother, he was mostly raised by his eccentric neighbor, Mr. Oleson, who taught him everything about radios. Millie is the gifted daughter of a prominent Dean of Medicine in Pennsylvania. Since childhood, she’s dreamt of becoming a doctor like her father, tagging along with him around the hospital. Gina hasn't been as lucky. She's lived for fifteen years under her abusive stepfather's boot in the parched hills of West Texas, where she finds solace in the company of her dog, Hank. These three teens have nothing in common… until the day the world ends. After a plague wipes out 99.9% of Earth’s population – including, apparently, all adults – these three heroes find that physical distance is no barrier. They venture through unimaginable dangers, battling the elements, wild animals, and feral children with a thirst for blood. America has become a post-apocalyptic wasteland, and these three teens are searching for refuge. Enter Nowhere, Oklahoma. A small college town, it’s known for being forgettable – until now. Over the crackling airwaves of its college radio station, the haggard voice of an old man beckons to the teens. In Nowhere, he says, they’ll find safety and the chance to rebuild. But is Nowhere truly safe, or is it just another dead end? Radio Nowhere is the exciting first book in the Radio Nowhere series. A YA character study full of thrills, suspense and grit, it’s a coming-of-age story for the modern era. In this world of living nightmares and broken hopes, the only thing worth fighting for… is the chance to dream once again.
277 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 11, 2017
7 people are currently reading
24 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
February 11, 2018
3.5 stars.
Radio Nowhere is a dystopian novel that at times pokes fun at other dystopian novels. Set just before and just after the apocalypse (in which a mysterious disease wipes out most of the global population), this story follows several young teens as they fight for survival against the elements, wild animals, and even other humans. Although at times serious and even dark, there are also zombie jokes and even a few hints of romance.
I will note that, as a avid reader, I had a few problems with Radio Nowhere. There are issues with the ebook (random page numbers, odd paragraph formatting, occasional typos...) that made it more difficult to sink into the story. There were also a large number of plot threads playing out, and they didn't feel well-tied off. Once I learned that there is a sequel planned, the ending made more sense, but I personally would have liked a little more closure for some of the characters. In a way, it felt very episodic, like the premiere for a TV series--meant to grab the viewer's attention and leave them wanting more.
Although my personal rating is 3.5 stars, I do think readers who enjoy post-apocalyptic tales will likely devour this story.
Radio Nowhere is a dystopian novel that at times pokes fun at other dystopian novels. Set just before and just after the apocalypse (in which a mysterious disease wipes out most of the global population), this story follows several young teens as they fight for survival against the elements, wild animals, and even other humans. Although at times serious and even dark, there are also zombie jokes and even a few hints of romance.
I will note that, as a avid reader, I had a few problems with Radio Nowhere. There are issues with the ebook (random page numbers, odd paragraph formatting, occasional typos...) that made it more difficult to sink into the story. There were also a large number of plot threads playing out, and they didn't feel well-tied off. Once I learned that there is a sequel planned, the ending made more sense, but I personally would have liked a little more closure for some of the characters. In a way, it felt very episodic, like the premiere for a TV series--meant to grab the viewer's attention and leave them wanting more.
Although my personal rating is 3.5 stars, I do think readers who enjoy post-apocalyptic tales will likely devour this story.
July 13, 2019
TL;DR Great 1st release from an Indy! I expect this author will be growing rapidly in the next few years as they refine their voice and gain confidence in exploring difficult aspects of the genre and character development. Very enjoyable read from an author that I look forward to reading more from!
Long(er) form:
Radio Nowhere hits most of the touch points that a Teen Post-Apocalypse novel should hit, and does so with a solid, if a bit restrained, level of grit and grim realism. Beard seems to prefer a more clinical and cool approach to developing dramatic tension.
Beard uses a conventional starting point with a few nice twists, and clearly wants to rush into the Post. Using a lot of short vignettes, I think, causes the reader to reset their sense of place too many times at the beginning. This is probably the weakest part of the narrative in the sense of too much telling and not enough showing. In that, it is a kind of mixed bag as quite a few of the Pre- and Mid- threads are really well done, while others could have done with some refinement. Many opportunities for stronger emotional engagement seem to have been deliberately restrained, and others are left incomplete before a clear conclusion can be drawn. This seems to make the narrative slow to spin up and a bit confusing to follow in the first 3rd.
Scene setting and descriptions tend to be sparse and somewhat terse, as the narration focuses more on the internal state of the characters rather than the spaces they inhabit. While this works very well for most of the novel, there is one particular encounter where the environment IS the star and lacks enough development in character to sell the scene. The scene falls flat, where it could have been a real nail biter.
Overall Beard develops a well conceptualized world and a good collection of interesting characters.
Word is that Beard is putting the final touches on the sequel, which might be out as early as fall 2019. I'm looking forward to seeing not only where the narrative goes next, but seeing how Beard develops as a writer.
Long(er) form:
Radio Nowhere hits most of the touch points that a Teen Post-Apocalypse novel should hit, and does so with a solid, if a bit restrained, level of grit and grim realism. Beard seems to prefer a more clinical and cool approach to developing dramatic tension.
Beard uses a conventional starting point with a few nice twists, and clearly wants to rush into the Post. Using a lot of short vignettes, I think, causes the reader to reset their sense of place too many times at the beginning. This is probably the weakest part of the narrative in the sense of too much telling and not enough showing. In that, it is a kind of mixed bag as quite a few of the Pre- and Mid- threads are really well done, while others could have done with some refinement. Many opportunities for stronger emotional engagement seem to have been deliberately restrained, and others are left incomplete before a clear conclusion can be drawn. This seems to make the narrative slow to spin up and a bit confusing to follow in the first 3rd.
Scene setting and descriptions tend to be sparse and somewhat terse, as the narration focuses more on the internal state of the characters rather than the spaces they inhabit. While this works very well for most of the novel, there is one particular encounter where the environment IS the star and lacks enough development in character to sell the scene. The scene falls flat, where it could have been a real nail biter.
Overall Beard develops a well conceptualized world and a good collection of interesting characters.
Word is that Beard is putting the final touches on the sequel, which might be out as early as fall 2019. I'm looking forward to seeing not only where the narrative goes next, but seeing how Beard develops as a writer.
February 23, 2018
Set during a time when people are dying faster than the specialists can find a cure. With only a few living, the world has a new set of rules. But there are those who are still governed by their integrity and character who choose to do the right thing. There are others who are establishing their own reign as a disguise of a community of hope.
Hidden in Nowhere, OK, Ira broadcasts daily messages to any survivors; giving tips and hope. Zach and Millie are the first to reach him. But the tail was long and dangerous; faced with a tiger, an insane murder, society of teens wishing to live like a pack of wolves and two children left to care for themselves. Another group making their way to Nowhere, are sidetracked after a foolish accident, but they probably found a better place.
This was very well written and the intensity kept you wondering as each kid came to a new area. It was usually a new friend, needed equipment, or danger. What I did find humorous is Fly, Tennessee, being used as a refuge. Since this town is just a holler away, I will keep its secrets.
Hidden in Nowhere, OK, Ira broadcasts daily messages to any survivors; giving tips and hope. Zach and Millie are the first to reach him. But the tail was long and dangerous; faced with a tiger, an insane murder, society of teens wishing to live like a pack of wolves and two children left to care for themselves. Another group making their way to Nowhere, are sidetracked after a foolish accident, but they probably found a better place.
This was very well written and the intensity kept you wondering as each kid came to a new area. It was usually a new friend, needed equipment, or danger. What I did find humorous is Fly, Tennessee, being used as a refuge. Since this town is just a holler away, I will keep its secrets.
February 14, 2018
I thought Radio Nowhere by Lee Beard was a good read from the first paragraph until the last. I love love the hook! The first paragraph sucked me into the story, and I couldn’t put it down. The writing is good and strong, the characters are well-rounded and feel like real people, and Lee Beard does a great job building a dystopian world with a wonderful discriptive voice.
Radio Nowhere is aimed at young adults, but I enjoyed it as an adult. I caught myself coming back to read more after I put it down for bed. It has some violence and surprising sexy moments that I loved.
I want to give this book 5-stars but the formatting is not good, and I’m more of an “each book should be a stand-alone”. The ending leaves you hanging a little bit. I can see why authors do this so you will buy the next book, but for me – I want each to start and end as it’s own story. For this reason, I give 4-stars.
I highly recommend this book. You like dystopian apocalyptic stories? This is for you!
Radio Nowhere is aimed at young adults, but I enjoyed it as an adult. I caught myself coming back to read more after I put it down for bed. It has some violence and surprising sexy moments that I loved.
I want to give this book 5-stars but the formatting is not good, and I’m more of an “each book should be a stand-alone”. The ending leaves you hanging a little bit. I can see why authors do this so you will buy the next book, but for me – I want each to start and end as it’s own story. For this reason, I give 4-stars.
I highly recommend this book. You like dystopian apocalyptic stories? This is for you!
February 21, 2018
A post apocalyptic world run by the children
This is a good story about a post apocalyptic world where most of the population and every adult in the world are dead. Bands of children have bonded together to wreak havoc while others have found a santucary they are trying to reach. The characters are developed and the story presents an exciting journey through a tragic future while keeping the plot interesting and drawing you into the plight of the young future of the world. I liked the story and would recommend for those who like a good story that is an easy read. I shared this book with my 15 year old and she really liked it. Check this one out and let me know what you think.
This is a good story about a post apocalyptic world where most of the population and every adult in the world are dead. Bands of children have bonded together to wreak havoc while others have found a santucary they are trying to reach. The characters are developed and the story presents an exciting journey through a tragic future while keeping the plot interesting and drawing you into the plight of the young future of the world. I liked the story and would recommend for those who like a good story that is an easy read. I shared this book with my 15 year old and she really liked it. Check this one out and let me know what you think.
May 30, 2017
Good...
This was really a good book to read. I think it's mostly written for YA's, but I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Seems like another virus has it our world. This time it's mostly the older folks, leaving the young (teenagers) and very young as survivors. A radio message is pulling them toward Nowhere, Oklahoma.
The characters were very well written. I think Zack & Millie are good together especially with the small ones. Of course there's going to be a problem. Drake and his group are gonna create havoc for someone .
The storyline is decent & I'm really looking forward to what comes next.😁
This was really a good book to read. I think it's mostly written for YA's, but I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Seems like another virus has it our world. This time it's mostly the older folks, leaving the young (teenagers) and very young as survivors. A radio message is pulling them toward Nowhere, Oklahoma.
The characters were very well written. I think Zack & Millie are good together especially with the small ones. Of course there's going to be a problem. Drake and his group are gonna create havoc for someone .
The storyline is decent & I'm really looking forward to what comes next.😁
July 3, 2018
I hope there is a sequel!
I am not even sure how I stumbled on this book... I think maybe when I was browsing Goodreads or Amazon - but I am so glad I did!
I wish this author would promote his work more - this was an excellent read, every aspect kept me intrigued and dying to read more.
this book is Part Stand, Part Outbreak, Part all Lee Beard.
I am not even sure how I stumbled on this book... I think maybe when I was browsing Goodreads or Amazon - but I am so glad I did!
I wish this author would promote his work more - this was an excellent read, every aspect kept me intrigued and dying to read more.
this book is Part Stand, Part Outbreak, Part all Lee Beard.
December 31, 2025
This was a dystopian novel with a style and plot that has been missed in the genre. I also appreciate how simple the story is – there’s a goal, and the characters are working towards it. No wild subplots, no unrealistic actions by the characters. Just a good old fashioned desire for survival.
Recommended 11+ for dystopian themes and mild language.
Recommended 11+ for dystopian themes and mild language.
March 8, 2018
4.5 more like it.
I really enjoyed this book. If you like post-apocalyptic books, you'll love this one. It's the beginning, the start of a virus that kills the older generation.
Very engaging.
I really enjoyed this book. If you like post-apocalyptic books, you'll love this one. It's the beginning, the start of a virus that kills the older generation.
Very engaging.
September 8, 2025
I think, when the end of the world arrives, I'm just as likely to be sleeping through it. Most of the YA post-apocalyptic fiction I've read puts the teen characters in the role of heroes as they have to step and become bigger, stronger, faster, and smarter than whatever threat they face. Rarely do I read a book that starts out with someone sleeping through the apocalypse and then follows the MCs as they just try to get through one day at a time. This is much less an end of the world thriller than a coming of age journey, and I think it's pretty endearing for being that. The teens act like teens, and it's kind of refreshing. Even when we have teens acting like grown-ups, its clear that they are still teenagers who are just TRYING to be grown-ups. Nearly all of the survivors in this story are young people, and I'm perfectly willing to take this ride with them as they search for meaning in a world where meaning has been stripped away.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews