The Darkest Winter

by Nick Johns

WHAT IF ALL OF TODAY’S TECHNOLOGY SUDDENLY DISAPPEARED? Tim is a modern young man living a modern life in the highly industrialized northeastern United States. In a world of convenience and instant gratification, he surfs the ‘Net, talks and texts on his phone, and enjoys all of the digital entertainment available. He has a girlfriend, Emily, who recently moved to Chicago to pursue an impossible-to-refuse professional opportunity. And although they miss each other tremendously, at least they can stay in touch through the network of today’s technology. Then everything changes. Following a masterfully executed cyberattack by one of the US’s most persistent foes, the overly tech-dependent Northeast is literally rendered powerless. There are no lights, no computers, no wifi networks...nothing. The ensuing and inevitable panic leads to the unraveling of civilized behavior, plunging millions into a state of pure chaos. Caught in the heart of the madness, Tim quickly realizes what he must do. He has to leave Jersey and get to Emily, who awaits his arrival in the still-powered Chicago metro area. There’s just one problem. How can he get there without any technological advantages, and in a society that’s been forced to revert to an age when only the strongest—and most ruthless—survive?

320 pages, Paperback

Published September 6, 2018

About the author

There's nothing quite like a good book. I'm a big fan of all things entertainment: books, film, music and have just entered the publishing world with my first novel, The Darkest Winter.

I love fiction stories, mostly in the mystery, science fiction and horror realm. Strong characters to fall in love and go on a journey with. The bad and good guys that make up the pulse of a tale.

I tried to incorporate all of my admirations in my first novel. Reading and writing makes for a stronger mind and discussing that with others is a joy in and of itself!

Reviews

[Martha Geaney · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm from New Jersey and have lived through many instances of power outages. Some lasted days and caused by weather. But there have been a few for which there was no explanation. During Hurricane Sandy, I was alone for a week, without power. My cell phone battery was dead. My gas tank was near empty and there was gas rationing. This book is provides a realistic look at what could happen during the next emergency. What would you do if you had to fend for your survival?

[Guy Byars · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very promising first book! Excellent pacing and use of perspective, a generous sprinkling of grit (I’m not sure the US would go grimdark/Mad Max within a week. Maybe I’m an optimist.), and some great characters. I hope Nick Johns keeps writing!

[Mark Sidarous · Rating 3 out of 5]

It reads like a first effort, but it was enjoyable. It doesn't bring anything new to the rash of recent catastrophic fiction, but I hope Mr. Johns keeps writing.

[Blaze Wallber · Rating 5 out of 5]

Interesting read

Easy read and real page turner. I enjoyed thinking about that it would be like if the north american power grid went out for an extended period of time. Nick johns lays out a very believable cenerio.