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Bridgers #3

The Voice of Reason

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A devastated world. A desperate colony.

As Earth’s destruction approaches, bridgers Infinity Fowler and Desmond Weaver wrestle with the fact that eight billion people are about to die. While on the road to see Desmond’s mother one last time, they witness chaos like nothing they’ve ever seen.

Infinity and Desmond must fight their way back to SafeTrek to fulfill their primary duty—saving the human species. Their next mission: bridge 718 civic leaders to an alternate world. They'll then have thirty-six hours to help the refugees find their place in this new world, after which the bridgers will return to SafeTrek—assuming the building hasn't collapsed.

But when the bridgers and refugees arrive, they don’t find the civilized world they had expected. Instead, they find a ravaged planet where humans are forced to live in caves and fight for scraps. They discover creatures that shouldn’t exist and weapons that do worse than kill.

How can a colony so ill-prepared for these conditions possibly survive? In their desperate attempts to prepare the refugees, Infinity and Desmond face challenges that threaten to change them forever.

252 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 29, 2018

212 people are currently reading
63 people want to read

About the author

Stan C. Smith

49 books117 followers

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
Profile Image for Meenaz Lodhi.
1,021 reviews86 followers
July 29, 2018
“Your life depends upon you staying silent. Do you understand?”
Stan C. Smith is the most wildly inventive and creative writer, with a pure mind-melting ability of the themes and the plot. Another alternate Earth, with incredible aspects and threats. Very realistically drawn, made me feel it in first person. Left me dazed in the best possible way. There is heart in this story and it shows in the most magnificent ways. It does exactly what sci-fi should - makes the reader wonder what it means to be human. A superbly sketched characters whose competing motives constantly trip up the humans plans. A highly motivated and existential experience. I absolutely recommend the series!
I am voluntarily giving a review of an advance copy I received from the author.
Profile Image for Sherri.
28 reviews1 follower
July 27, 2018
Before embarking on her latest bridge, Infinity Fowler declares, "I haven’t found a world that can beat me yet!” Is she wrong? Will Bridgers 3: The Voice of Reason, be her undoing? With their current version of earth collapsing and in chaos, Infinity and Desmond bridge group ST5 to a destination world with a divergence of only 150 years. However, instead of landing in a modern world, the refugees emerge in one filled with few resources and numerous obstacles. Besides confrontations with herds of painted natives and small groups of feral people, the ST5 members must also negotiate with fickle mongrels that delight in dangerous shenanigans. During attempts to colonize this inhospitable world, the Bridgers encounter Abel, a musk monkey, who declares, “Tribulation and trauma are afoot!” Will Abel prove to be a valuable liaison or a venomcrook wielding foe? Stan Smith's riveting Bridgers book 3 enthralled me and left me wanting more! I predict you will concur!
Profile Image for Rosemary Standeven.
1,024 reviews53 followers
August 1, 2018
Another excellent chapter in the Bridgers series. This one sees Infinity and Des bridging, with 718 colonists, to an alternate Earth. As the new Earth diverged from original Earth only 150 years ago, everyone is expecting very little change from what they are leaving behind: a recognisable human civilisation (if a bit old-fashioned), that the colonists can relatively seamlessly merge into. Because of this assumption, the current batch of colonists are older, more cerebral, less fit – more politicians than preppers – and they see no need to take advantage of Infinity’s pre-bridging survival technique classes. The fact that the bio-probe comes back with an unidentified creature instead of a missing cat, should have raised alarm bells. But, with original Earth being torn to pieces by violent storms and earthquakes, civilisation disintegrating, and Bridging Facilities going off-line, there is no time to waste. The ST5 colonist bridging will go ahead.
Unfortunately, a lot can happen in 150 years. Yes, the new Earth has recognisable humans, who speak a recognisable language, but this is far from a recognisable civilisation. Even Infinity is well out of her depth. If the colony is to survive, they need all need to drastically alter their expectations, and somehow come to an understanding with the alien Mongrels – let alone with the indigenous humans. And this all needs to happen in the 36 hours before Infinity and Des bridge home.
The story is a comment on the destructive disposition of humans, and a question as to whether this temperament is open to change. Or is it now too late? Is the ideal of a back-to-nature existence, really ideal? What is more damaging to the human psyche – excruciating pain or absolute ecstasy?
I loved this book, as much as the preceding two books in the series, and really hope there is more to come.
I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book at no cost from the author in exchange for an honest review
Profile Image for Al Burke.
Author 2 books168 followers
August 25, 2018
This is the third instalment of the author's inter-dimensional tale, and while it slips a little (at least for me), it is still well worth reading.

The plot follows (mostly) Infinity, a former MMA-fighter turned bridger. Having discovered an alien message giving details of a technology that creates "bridges" between parallel Earths, a company by the name of Safetrek jumps on board with the view of monetising it. They provide guided tours of alternate-Earths at different stages in its evolution, some of which are wildly different from our world.

However, it turns out the message was a trick, and the planet begins to destabilise, causing major catastrophes. With the Earth's future looking bleak, the focus of Safetrek is no longer on providing fun holidays, but to send as many humans as possible to alternate worlds to keep the race alive. 

Infinity plays a big role in this, leading the groups to their new world, and trying to give them a fighting chance in 36 hours, before she gets zapped back to take the next group. This time around she leads a group to a world just 150 years behind ours, in the belief that the humans at the time can take them in. Good plan so far. Except...

This Earth has been taken over by an alien race who had also bridged there, and humans were basically pack animals being studied by the aliens. The cities are gone, roads are gone and technology is gone. Heck, even speech is limited. How the hell are a bunch of white collar workers going to learn to fend for themselves?

I've liked this series so far. The author writes pacy, clever sci-fi that keeps you engaged throughout. Infinity is a great character. Her harsh history makes you want to root for her,  but it's her survival instincts and unwillingness to suffer fools gladly that really wins you over. Her bridging (and other) partner Desmond, coming from the "right side" of the tracks, is Infinity's polar opposite, but somehow you can see their relationship working.

This was my least favourite of the three books, but I'm not quite sure why. Perhaps it was his treatment of the new colonists - they seem a bit whinier than some of the previous types. Also, the parallel humans were a little less interesting than say, vicious humanoid birds from previous books. Also, the aliens were a bit naff too, although there is potential if they show up down the road.  

Still, a good read, and I'm looking forward to book four, as there's some nice surprises building on the evidence of this one. A solid 4/5 stars. 



2,511 reviews6 followers
August 1, 2018
This book is even better than the first two! There is astounding world building with lots of hold-your-breath suspense and action. The story is peppered with compassion and a bit of romance. Great plot with surprises around every corner. Bravo!!
Profile Image for Dave.
313 reviews4 followers
August 9, 2021
I received this book as part of the Bridgers boxed set 1-3. This is quite literally the most exciting series I've read in decades. At times I read it holding my breath. I read this book in one afternoon because I couldn't put it down. I can't wait for the second boxed set 4-6!
372 reviews3 followers
June 6, 2019
The most challenging Alternate Earth scenario so far.

The descriptions of the catastrophic destruction of Earth are the most horrific of the first three novels in the series. And while attempting to transport refugees from a doomed planet to alternate Earths, in different timelines, have resulted in disaster after disaster for the refugees, Bridgers Infinity and Desmond have no choice but to be willing to trade their lives so that others may live.
There were several issues arising from The Voice of Reason that bothered me, as the origins and natures of the Musk Monkeys, and the totally confounding aliens known as the “mongrels”, simply escaped me. Didn’t mean I was not captivated by the story, but still, I was relieved to encounter Stan C. Smith’s end-notes where he lays out his thoughts about the novel as he was writing it, and most of the ellusive pieces fell into place for me. However, I did come to realize that I wished those issues would have been more accessible during the reading, and not dependent on Stan’s helpful comments at the end.
At this point, I now realized the implications of the triangular-shaped objects being brandished by hands on the covers of the first three novels, and found that just looking at them brought back powerful memories of things that took place in those three novels. Very, very clever cover art, and an intriguing fourth cover for the fourth novel, as well.
The Voice of Reason also invoked some flashback to Stan’s Diffusion series, and in particular, the tree kangaroos in Diffusion (by way of the Musk Monkeys) and the organic technology represented by the “alien computer” called the “Lamotelokhai” that resembled the organic tools used by the “mongrels” in this novel.
Now, to open up “Infinity”, the prequel to the series, and the back story of Infinity Fowler, the enigmatic fighter who will risk all, for those put into her care, the central “bridger” in this fascinating series. (to be followed by The Mind of Many, the concluding Bridger novel.
Profile Image for Janalyn, the blind reviewer.
4,612 reviews140 followers
July 12, 2019
Weirdest alternate earth yet!!!

After fighting their way back from seeing Desmond’s mom and encountering the worst this world has to offer. They bridge out to a world humans are treated like outside dogs, by a large floating blob. Do humans do as they’re told or they are turned in to weird creatures that will roam the earth endlessly. Although sometimes they are turned in two hey six limbed monkey that is so weird I can’t even describe it. They carry around these things called Crookshanks that could either put you in extreme ecstasy which the humans who gravel for food every day were exposed to all the opposite, it inflict so much pain it is undescribable.

My favorite part of this book there are so many, but I will tell you my first favorite part. It was win infinity was saying goodbye to Desmond‘s mom and she felt awkward and she didn’t feel comfortable hugging her but she couldn’t leave without telling her the best way to save her and our neighbors should’ve come to that. I thought that was so sweet and so funny. Yes she couldn’t hug her, but gave her some great advice for saving her life. I love so much! I had no least favorite parts in this book. I loved them all as I do most things Stan C Smith books. There are no vulgar scenes there is a little bit violence but it is mostly humans turning into other animals not that bad. Also there are no sex scenes one should be warned about. I give this book 5 stars and although I could not do a long proper review I hope whoever reads this review will read the book it is so so good!
216 reviews1 follower
December 20, 2021
I got this book as part of a box set and the review below has been repeated as part of the review of that set.

Continuing their mission to save humankind, Infinity and Desmond bridge to yet another world . Before they do, in a journey by road on Earth they witness extreme weather conditions, earthquakes, and storms that seem a precursor to the dying Earth. The world they bridge into has only a divergence of 150yrs from the current time so they are expecting to find more of what they recognise from this world (buildings, roads, etc) which will make it easier for refugees from Earth to survive. However, when they arrive they find a vastly different world where aliens have already landed and control what the humans can do. Working with aliens and the existing population to get them to accept the refugees and to make sure there is food for all proves to be extremely challenging for the bridgers.

As part of the liaison with the aliens, something is discovered that could be the key to reversing things on Earth provided that Earth's journey to its destruction has not progressed too far.

This was an enjoyable read and I am looking forward to reading the next book to see what happens next.
657 reviews4 followers
February 24, 2020
Desmond and Infinity bridge to another version of Earth with very little idea about what to expect as time is running out for Earth. With the usual precautions taking far too long corners are having to be cut. Expecting a world quite similar to their own after picking a ‘divergent’ point only 150 years ago they are stunned to find a world of sprawling wilderness. This however is only the beginning of the unusual experiences they will have there. They soon discover a strange purple bubble that appears to house some strange life forms within. Stan C Smith really lets his imagination run free with this addition to the Bridgers series with some fantastical creatures and a plot that makes you think what it really means to be human. Our favourite bridgers, Desmond and Infinity, are once again thrown into the fray and asked to do the impossible. They’ve done it before so why not again? This is a fantastic Apocalypse/Sci-Fi/Fantasy story that really captures the readers imagination and makes you wonder about the nature of evolution and the possibility of what could truly be ‘out there’. Really great stuff and I can’t wait to read book 4, highly recommended.
70 reviews
August 1, 2018

Bridgers 3: The Voice Of Reason is story telling at it's best. It grabs your attention on the first page and never lets go. This book helps to answer questions you may have about Infinity, the lead character in this brilliantly clever science fiction series about traveling (bridging) to parallel earths with small groups of people from our earth, to colonize and to hopefully save our species from extinction. Stan C. Smith's world building is excellent. The imagery of the surroundings along with the characterization of the inhabitants immerses you in the scene. The description of incidental events makes the settings even more real. It feels as if you are right there in the middle of it all. The action is nonstop from start to finish. It's one of those books you don't want to put down. Even after you know you have read the last paragraph in the book, you still turn the page hoping for more. Bridgers 1 and 2 were excellent and Bridgers 3 is even better. This is a book you don't want to miss.
Profile Image for Reads_Must .
960 reviews13 followers
March 10, 2025
The Voice of Reason
Bridgers #3
Sci-Fi
Stan C. Smith
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5

• ᴀʟɪᴇɴꜱ • ꜱᴜʀᴠɪᴠᴀʟ • ꜰɪɢʜᴛɪɴɢ •

I found it hard to become immersed in the plot of this book. While I liked the previous books, the way an alien talks in riddles in this book made me lose interest just because it felt like I spent more time trying to work out what the alien was saying and what it meant for the humans than actually enjoying the plot.

The pacing was slow to begin with and it didn't really change much. Things did become more interesting at around 66%, though.

I still liked Infinity and Desmond. They work so well together and I hope their relationship progresses.

I hope the next book focuses a bit more on Earth and what is happening to it.
2,022 reviews8 followers
October 17, 2025
Audiobook: I enjoyed this third book as much as the first two books in the series. I admired the worldbuilding as the descriptive phrases transported me to the created society developed by the author. Trinity continued to amaze me with her resilience and strength. I applauded Desmond's actions as he became more of a partner with Trinity on their newest bridging expedition. I appreciated the almost non-stop action and the moments of humor which kept my attention riveted. I enjoyed Victoria Lynn Arbor's narration as her performance was entertaining. I was given a copy of the audiobook. I volunteered, without financial gain, to post this review which reflected my honest opinions regarding this audiobook.
Profile Image for Susan.
1,455 reviews
August 1, 2018
The Voice of Reason is the third book in the Bridgers series. While you can read this as a standalone, I don't recommend that you do. Each story builds on the previous books and having that background makes this much easier to understand. Though the author does a good job at catching up on previous events for new readers. There is violence. While I enjoyed the first two books in the series, The Voice of Reason is my favorite book up to now. It was good not only to learn more about Infinity's background before she became a Bridger, but this book focused more on emotions and conflict resolution. I am looking forward to the next book.
170 reviews2 followers
August 4, 2018
Bridgers 3: The Voice of Reason

The world continues to fall apart as its destruction is imminent. In the meantime, selected earth inhabitants are being bridged to other alternate earths to ensure the survival of the human race.

But this book has Infinity and Desmond, her partner, travel to an alternate earth that was only in the recent past. The thinking was that perhaps there would be other humanoids with whom earthlings could meet and survive.

And we get surprised almost immediately with the structure of the inhabitants of this alternate earth.

The bridging adventure continues with surprises galore. And I could not put this book down.
Profile Image for Velinda haywood.
78 reviews3 followers
March 30, 2019
Infinite Adventure to different. Worlds

Infinite adventure to different worlds, reminds so much of stargaze series. Infinity is the strong character lead who is fierce ,strong, and committed. The best thing is her survival skills and the strong urge to protect the. Tourist no matter the cost. I would consider this as the fore shadowing of an apocalyptic event caused by the Bridgers.
Profile Image for Katia M. Davis.
Author 3 books18 followers
December 29, 2020
Not as good as the first 2

I didn't like this novel as much as the first two in the series. It felt a lot slower to me. We're coming up to a major turning point in the series where the earth is essentially falling apart around everyone but we end up spending a lot of time exploring Infinity and Desmond's relationship. I didnt think the novel hit the author's usual pace until about the 65% mark. Still, I am looking forward to the next book and hope it goes back to its usual high octane level.
185 reviews
September 4, 2021
Gets better & better

This third book sees us joining Infinity & Desmond as they lead desperate groups hoping to leave a doomed Earth.
They meet an alien life form who proves to be helpful & Desmond meets alien lifeforms in a desperate effort to help Earth's refugees. He might also be able to Earth, but that remains to be seen
I absolutely love these books & read this one in a day. Now onto the next adventure
219 reviews1 follower
May 22, 2023
This is a great third book in the series. There was a devious setting up of expectations at the end of book 2 and start of book 3 by the author and it works marvelously. There is also a nice twist in the broader plotline that should have interesting ramifications for the next few books. As well as further character developments in the main characters. I can't recommend this series enough based on the first three books.
570 reviews3 followers
August 14, 2018
Love this series

Another good book in this wonderful series. Just imagine going to alternate worlds for 36 hours. Yes it would be dangerous, but just think of all the new wonders you could see if you went back in time 200 or 500 years. This book fuels the imagination. Well written and so imagitive. I applaud the author. I highly recommend this book.
Profile Image for Margaret.
792 reviews5 followers
August 1, 2018
Stan C. Smith's Bridgers 3: The Voice of Reason completes the series which has been absolutely fantastic. Endlessly fascinating, this third book is best of all. I will miss these characters and intriguing colony building challenges. So much is revealed in this last book. Would love a 4th book.
Profile Image for Ron.
761 reviews2 followers
May 27, 2019
Terrific

Another great adventure for Infinity and Des as they bridge town alternative earth only 150 years different.
However things don't go as planned and this earth is very different. Found this story compelling and difficult to put down great read
Profile Image for Barbara Harrison.
3,387 reviews84 followers
October 22, 2019
This PG13 time-traveling dystopia can be read in a day as a standalone, but it is best to read the series in sequence. I read an ARC (yeah, I know it's late) and this voluntary review is my own opinion.
Profile Image for jboyg.
425 reviews4 followers
June 13, 2020
Volume 3 not quite as good as the first two.

Would have given 3-1/2 stars of possible, still a good book with plenty of spills and thrills but a certain sameness is creeping in and my attention beginning to wane a bit. Still, I soldier on to #4, wish me luck.
164 reviews2 followers
January 11, 2021
The acid isn't poison, Its Bad Acid!!!

Gave the first two books in this series a 5 star but only gave this one a 4. Too depressing. No hope. No future. What's the point ?Have to read book 4 now but it needs to lighten up some
Profile Image for Mike Nyberg.
784 reviews3 followers
March 8, 2021
I continue to be impressed with this series. #3 did not disappoint. Aside from a slow start with a lackluster approach to backstory, the main plot and new multiverse was great. Very creative author in this genre.
Profile Image for RAVEN.
90 reviews
July 14, 2022
I won't say to much don't want to give much away but this series, each book is better than the last one. My favorite character in this was Able or Musk Monkey. I love his language duologue and it stick with me. Weird I know 😀 but heading to read 4. The mind of many 💗
Profile Image for David Pospisil.
613 reviews3 followers
September 6, 2024
A big improvement from Book 2, which almost caused me to give up on the series.
This book had a good story and the relationship between the MC's was compelling.
I'll be back for more books in the series sometime soon.
37 reviews1 follower
August 1, 2018
The series continues to be exquisitely interesting and entertaining. The book is well written. The pace and intriguing ideas make this a gripping read.
220 reviews11 followers
August 2, 2018
Another awesome book by this author. I really enjoyed this book. Highly recommend this book
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews

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