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Lone Star #1

Axis of Evil

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The Axis of Evil had the perfect strategy.
Destroy the heartbeat of America.
Invade with their million man army.
But there was one thing they didn't count on ... Texas.


Once again, political suspense collides with post-apocalyptic thriller fiction as critically acclaimed author Bobby Akart (The Lone Star Series, The Blackout Series, The Pandemic Series, The Boston Brahmin series and the Prepping for Tomorrow series) intertwines historical fact with plausible fiction in The Lone Star Series.

For decades, American administrations have forced our military to be neutered in many respects - hampered by restrained rules of engagement, passed in strength by Russia and China, and tested by rogue nations like North Korea and Iran. As a result ...
nuclear Armageddon hangs over us like a mighty sword.

Military analysts agree that the United States can't start World War III. Why? We might lose. Sabers are rattling and the war of words escalate between America and her enemies, but the rhetoric has done little to stop the nuclear proliferation of North Korea and Iran. When the deep state, a close-knit group of powerful, influential people within our government challenges a new, untested President, things go awry.

The decisions made in the darkened rooms of Washington have a profound impact on ordinary Americans like the Armstrong family, Texas ranchers who spend their time making a living, but also preparing for the worst. As most of the family lives their life in Texas, one of them will unknowingly be the catalyst for World War III. 

406 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 16, 2018

841 people are currently reading
203 people want to read

About the author

Bobby Akart

98 books401 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
624 (55%)
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341 (30%)
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107 (9%)
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39 (3%)
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13 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 112 reviews
Profile Image for Ryan Hillis.
732 reviews18 followers
Read
March 25, 2018
A great thriller about Iran and North Korea using an EMP.
Profile Image for Denise Keef.
512 reviews11 followers
February 18, 2018
Axis Of Evil, the first book in the newest series b Bobby Akart is one that has been anticipated by many for a while now and Bobby hasn’t let us down with his newest endeavor. In this first book we are introduced to many characters who all play strategic parts in this series. Many I have come to like because of their hometown, kind of every day personalities to some who I couldn’t help dislike intensely! Some I’m on the fence about and hope they will redeem themselves but only time will tell on them.
This is a very gripping book from the first chapter onward. I had many thoughts running through my mind as I was reading, thinking, this could possibly happen tomorrow in our country and that thought scared the day lights out of me! That is one of the things I love about Bobby Akart’s stories. He takes a possible scenario and tells a story that is so realistic, you are waiting to see it on CNN or any of the news channels when you turn your television on. He also gives advice on how to possibly survive the catastrophes when the SHTF. As the story was coming closer to the end I was biting my nails with anticipation. When I did reach that very last page I immediately wanted more. I am so glad that with this series, there won’t be a long wait time between books. I am so looking forward to the next book to continue this amazing story that will keep you entertained and wanting more. Thank you Bobby Akart for once again writing a story that has sucked me into a world that I hope we never…ever experience. You have hit it out of the ball park with this one!
Profile Image for Anita.
50 reviews
March 28, 2018
Just finished Axis of Evil, The Lone Star Series. Great buildup for Book 2: Beyond Borders. I loved the character interactions, especially the Armstrong family unit. Hard working and staunch believers that God helps those who help themselves (my words). That is who they are in this fictional portrayal of the individual spirit of humanity to survive on their own, being self sufficient as a way of life. Can't wait to read Beyond Borders. A definite recommended read.
Profile Image for AudioBookReviewer.
949 reviews167 followers
April 29, 2018
My original Axis of Evil audiobook review and many others can be found at Audiobook Reviewer.

Story

Axis of Evil written by Bobby Akart and narrated by Sean Runnette is the first of a new Lone Star book series. Mr. Akart has an aggressive release schedule for these audiobooks so the listeners will not have to wait if they get hooked by the first in the series. The audiobooks are set to come out one a month. This is the third series I have heard from Mr. Akart and in his six book series, he follows a formula that has led to his success. The first book is an introduction to the characters, world building, creating tension, and cliffhanger.

This book is more political thriller than post-apocalyptic. The story is really good and follows the Armstrong family in Texas. Set in a future America where the elected president dies early in his first term. The Vice President is a woman who balanced the ticket and is progressive and nonmilitaristic. Kim Jong-un is still running North Korea and they are getting weapons from Iran. World tensions are at an all-time high. The US Secretary of Defense cannot get the new president to see reality to stop North Korea's nuclear launches over Japan. So the Deep State lives again and has plans to deal with the threat.

The Armstrong family has a proud history of service in Law Enforcement in the Texas Rangers. Two of the adult children are in the military with one dying in the line of duty. The other three are their Rodeo Kids. The Armstrong ranch  and are preppers. They know that the world is an unstable place and that the future is never certain. They also know that Texas is the only state with its own power grid separate from the national grid.  The state of Texas is capable of being self-sustaining just like the Armstrong ranch currently is self-sustaining.  Strong and independent free of debt. A place for the family and its ranch hands should anything ever happen to the country.

Attention Holding

The story does a really great job of holding the listener's attention through the entire audiobook if you are a fan of this genre and author. The book does involve character introduction and world building. It holds your attention through the whole audiobook. I found the story and characters interesting and enjoyable. The events do a good job of mirroring real world events to create plenty of dramatic tension to lend an air of reality for the listener.

Narration and Production Quality

Sean Runnette provides the narration for this audiobook. Mr. Runnette does a good job with this audiobook. He provides an excellent performance for the wide variety of characters in this audiobook. This is the first time I have heard a performance from Mr. Runnette but I look forward to hearing more from him in the future. Audible Studio's produced this audiobook. The production quality was excellent as one would expect from Audible.

Audiobook was provided for review by the author.
Profile Image for chucklesthescot.
3,000 reviews134 followers
February 23, 2019
I decided to give the author another try but again I wasn't really enjoying it much. The first 20 pages are full of information about EMPs which I skipped but might be interesting to those wanting to learn more about them or someone new to the genre.

The book follows a family led by retired ranger Duncan. His oldest son died in military action which he has never got over. Duncan Jr is a former Navy Seal now working for the CIA and based on the USS Jack H Lucas near Iran. Cooper and his other siblings do bull riding. I found the actual characters around the ranch to be interesting enough but the plot again was very slow. We also follow female President Alani Harman who struggles to control rival Defence Secretary Monty Gregg, who wants to assassinate the North Korean leader in a plot with Kim's sister. After 125 pages the biggest excitement were the Iranians trying to get the Americans to shoot at them and a beaver dam at the ranch. It was just too slow getting into the story again for my tastes.
Profile Image for Susan Robinson.
314 reviews6 followers
March 30, 2018
As in all Bobby Akart books, this one is full of information and details. His books are timely in regards to issues facing us in the current world situation. And, as always, he leaves us with a cliff hanger.
53 reviews2 followers
March 20, 2018
Well written multi-level read

Good story - not the normal end of the world story line. Great information and way the story moves between todays headlines
Profile Image for Brandon.
556 reviews34 followers
March 7, 2018
The stage is set for a modern war with the new "axis of evil" (i.e. DPRK & Iran). As usual, Akart's story's basis in reality is well done. The technology, ideologies, and geopolitics of the situation is accurate to today's timeline, albeit, the book takes place a few years ahead. This new series is once more Akart's look into a possible future eventuality, should things spiral out of control.

The characters are all an interesting new cast, and brought to life with Akart's customary skill. The main cast all stem from a Texas ranching family. The parents, a couple retired preppers and homesteaders; two sons, rising rodeo stars; a hardass daughter who can hold her own; and, the oldest boy, a special forces soldier now employed by the CIA's Special Activities Division. As life runs its usual ups and downs at home, the eldest Anderson son is tasked with completing one of the most important, and risky, missions in the history of covert warfare, having to sneak into and out of the most restricted and insulated country in the world; the consequences of which have the potential to throw the current cold war into the frying pan.

Spoiler alert: Can't beat throwing .338 from a Barrett at old Dear Leader.
Profile Image for Leslie.
370 reviews5 followers
March 16, 2018
Good read

I enjoyed this book and it has set up the sequence of events for the upcoming books. I can't wait to read the next one!
2 reviews
March 16, 2018
Great read

Bobby Akart never disappoints a reader!! Great read packed with real world excitement . This is the stuff great action movies are made of.
89 reviews1 follower
March 16, 2018
I liked the book and intend to read the other related ones. I just thought it was a little too easy for the family to travel without many problems.
Profile Image for Sarah Patton.
48 reviews2 followers
March 9, 2018
Thought provoking

I have read quite a few non-fiction post apocalyptic books that provide valuable information regarding how to prepare for potential disasters. However, although I have enjoyed them all, none have provoked such thought as this. The level of detail regarding politics and the military were on par. I felt almost as if I was reading a history book. Realistic settings and everyday characters you can't help but adore made this a five star read for me. I am eagerly and not patiently awaiting to next installment. In the mean time, I'll be pondering current world events.....
Profile Image for Mark Winninghoff.
3 reviews
March 13, 2018
Entertaining quick read

I've read several books in this genre but this is one of the best. The first installment lays out a good foundation for what's to come. Although a little predictable at times, there's more backstory here than one usually finds in these types stories. I'm looking forward to Part II.
Profile Image for Susan Chatham.
36 reviews5 followers
March 14, 2018
Akart Still Giving His All

Enjoyed & liked the view from a Texas family way of life. Politically on point. Kept me interested & will read next when available
Profile Image for Tom Kuchen.
79 reviews1 follower
March 7, 2018
As usual

A well thought out book by Bobby Akart. Characters are well developed and interesting. The plot is well thought out and believable. Had a friend that was a young rodeo cowboy in the mid 70s and I can picture him as one of the characters in the book. Can't wait for the next chapter.
Profile Image for Michael  Keller.
935 reviews10 followers
February 20, 2018
Duncan 'Major' Armstrong, retired from Company C of the Texas Rangers, comes from a long line of lawmen and ranchers. Major is directly descended from John Barclay Armstrong, who moved to Texas from Tennessee in 1871. John joined the Texas Rangers under Leander McNelly. After a lifetime of service in the Texas Rangers and as one of the first U.S. Marshals in Texas, John Barclay Armstrong retired and took up ranching.

Major and Miss Lucy, his wife of 30 years, had moved to the Armstrong family ranch after their wedding and promptly had five children - four boys and, finally, a daughter. Duncan Armstrong Jr., the oldest, was a U.S. Army Ranger and his younger brother Dallas had both joined the U.S. Army Rangers. Dallas had been killed in Kandahar defending his fellow Rangers. The three youngest Armstrongs were 'The Rodeo Kids' to Miss Lucy. Cooper, oldest of the three is a bull rider, Riley was a steer wrestler and Palmer, the youngest, was a barrel horse racer. Cooper had a serious chance to make it to the Calgary Stampede on Thanksgiving weekend.

After the planes hit the World Trade Center towers on 9/11, Miss Lucy had moved her focus from a family garden to a prepper lifestyle. She made sure that the family was prepared for anything, at any time. With the current political climate and the antics of North Korea and the enmity of Iraq, it didn't hurt to be ready.

This is the family around which the Lone Star Series is wound. In his usual style, the author introduces the characters and describes them so perfectly that you know them like your own family, with all the quirks and arguments, the people who know you best, who you love and would give your life defending. Rich and vibrant, the characters drive the story and the action as the Armstrongs prepare for the worst. Because you never know when the day before is the day before.
Profile Image for Cindi.
96 reviews2 followers
March 8, 2018
Another good book from Bobby Akart

As always, Mr. Akart captures your attention and doesn't let go. Excellent characters, a good plot, and a GREAT ending keep you wanting more!!
5 reviews
March 8, 2018
Very good

This is one of the best EMP books I have read. I hope to read the other parts very soon.
Profile Image for Joe Carey.
13 reviews1 follower
February 19, 2018
Bobby Akart takes us on another wild ride, from 2018 to 1820! As he delves into the North Korean threat, he also looks at the political will, or lack of, to deal with perhaps the most dangerous threat America faces today. Through the eyes of one Texas family who have faced diversity with the loss of one son and the fear for another patriotic hero, and the strength of character and faith of the three youngest children, the family with the guiding hand of a great father and mentor have prepared them for a future that is looking dangerous and bleak.

Thanks to the foresight of Texas and her can do and won't die attitude, while the rest of America faces collapse and destruction, Texas holds out as the last fortress of freedom!
Bobby has the ability to see what this country faces if the politicians keep up their idiotic path of appeasement and failure to confront the problems from countries such as Iran and North Korea. While Washington continues to hope diplomacy will stop dictators who want to control the world and convert her to their misguided beliefs, Texans have taken steps to protect her infrastructure and her people.

Major Armstrong came from a long line of Texas pioneers who faced hard struggles in an unforgiving and harsh land to prosper and raise generations of tough, hard working Texans who continues in the preparations he has undertaken in stocking, training and preparing his children and ranch hands for a future collapse. What will happen may not be pretty and may not be politically correct in the eyes of our current snow flake society, but may well be the only way to preserve our country in a form we would recognize. Without men like Major Armstrong and his children America could well become a occupied, third world country where our cherished freedoms are gone forever and we will be slaves to foreign regimes and misguided radicals!

THANK GOD FOR TEXAS, IF I CAN'T GO TO HEAVEN JUST LET ME GO TO TEXAS, IT'S AS CLOSE AS I HAVE BEEN!!!!!
1 review1 follower
March 5, 2018
Great read

Axils of evil was a well written
Book! The characters were well developed and I felt like I knew them.
The books ending left me wanting to read the next book in the series right away
90 reviews
March 7, 2018
Good book

Akart is an author I like to read. I liked this book, but I could have done with less writing on the white house.
52 reviews2 followers
March 2, 2018
Does it again

Bobby Akart is a superb survival fiction writer. His plots and characters are well drawn. As you read, you can't help getting swept up in the story. I like the fact the books of his that I have read have been without explicit sex and low vulgar language. Such a wonderful flow of companionship and emotion comes through in the story that you can't help routing for them.
Profile Image for Kathy O'Rourke.
Author 9 books10 followers
March 5, 2018
Wonderful start

Mr. Akart never fails to set up his series with wonderful, realistic characters. I find myself getting angry, and stressed as the tension builds. Kudos. I will of course read the entire series.
5 reviews
March 4, 2018
Very enjoyable

I've read books by this author before, which is why I gave this new series a shot. I enjoyed this book as well. This first book introduces us to the characters and sets us up to want to read more. I'll be buying the next two.
Profile Image for Uncle  Dave Avis.
433 reviews8 followers
February 28, 2018
An exceptionally good book by a very talented wordcrafter !
This was a really good read to start off the new series Axis of Evil. The characters are kept to a minimum and are well developed. This is the kind of family that every Texan wants to be identified with.
The plot unfolds quickly, the different characters do their thing while adding to the foundation of the series.
This is a very good series and I highly recommend this fine first book.
15 reviews1 follower
March 1, 2018
Truth

Wow wonders never cease! ,Finally a book worth reading. It takes a lot to hold my interest. He did it fantastically!!!
Profile Image for Tracey Mccall.
355 reviews8 followers
February 20, 2018
Hold on for another amazing series


As with all Bobby Akart books you will be amazed with his storytelling abilities! For me this story flowed from one page to the next, giving detailed explanations of what our country and the world faces with a nuclear armed North Korea. This first book in the Axis Of Evil series sets you up for an Amazing battle to come.
We are introduced to the Armstrong family of Texas, ranch owners with a proud history.
Major Armstrong a retired Texas Ranger along with his wife Lucy have five adult children. Cooper, Riley and Palmer are gaining notoriety in the Rodeo. Dallas died serving his Country in the Middle East with Duncan currently serving his Country.
Start reading today.
Profile Image for Steven.
468 reviews14 followers
February 21, 2018
Great start to a scary story. This is my first Bobby Akart book and I love his realistic jump into apocalyptic fantasy. Warning this is a huge set up book and my mouth is watering for the next book for the real mayhem to start. The forward by a real us government official on the real possibility of this scenario happening in real life is quite sobering and adds to the realism for this book. I enjoyed this first book greatly
8 reviews
February 22, 2018
I started this book thinking that I’ll read a couple of chapters and go to bed. That didn’t happen. I was sucked in and had to finish the book. Excellent story that makes you want to be part of the family. It’s an interesting well thought out story. I highly recommend this. I’m now chomping at the bit for the next book in the series. Well done Mr. Akart
16 reviews2 followers
February 25, 2018
Love the new Lonestar series

Love the Armstrong family. As usual great character development. Can hardly wait for the next book. Akart has delivered again.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 112 reviews

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