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Trackers #3
The Storm
A deadly storm of violence sweeps across the United States in the thrilling third installment of the bestselling Trackers saga.
One month after the North Korean attack, the United States continues to fall into anarchy. In Estes Park, Colorado, Police Chief Marcus Colton and tracker Sam ‘Raven’ Spears work tirelessly to defend their hometown. But after a brutal coordinated attack, they realize it will take much more than roadblocks and a volunteer militia to protect their borders and keep their families safe.
Defense Secretary Charlize Montgomery has been reunited with her son, but his homecoming is short-lived due to the state of the FEMA survival centers around the country. She heads to the one in Charlotte, North Carolina, with her loyal bodyguard, Albert Randall. Outside the camp’s walls, the city has descended into chaos and desperate civilians will do anything to get inside. When Albert stays behind to rescue his sister, he is caught in the middle of a turf war between rival gangs.
In this lawless new world where the most ruthless thrive while innocents suffer, Colton, Raven, and Charlize are faced with their toughest challenges yet. One thing is certain—they won’t be able to save everyone. Not with their humanity still intact.
One month after the North Korean attack, the United States continues to fall into anarchy. In Estes Park, Colorado, Police Chief Marcus Colton and tracker Sam ‘Raven’ Spears work tirelessly to defend their hometown. But after a brutal coordinated attack, they realize it will take much more than roadblocks and a volunteer militia to protect their borders and keep their families safe.
Defense Secretary Charlize Montgomery has been reunited with her son, but his homecoming is short-lived due to the state of the FEMA survival centers around the country. She heads to the one in Charlotte, North Carolina, with her loyal bodyguard, Albert Randall. Outside the camp’s walls, the city has descended into chaos and desperate civilians will do anything to get inside. When Albert stays behind to rescue his sister, he is caught in the middle of a turf war between rival gangs.
In this lawless new world where the most ruthless thrive while innocents suffer, Colton, Raven, and Charlize are faced with their toughest challenges yet. One thing is certain—they won’t be able to save everyone. Not with their humanity still intact.
Audible Audio
Published October 3, 2017
540 people are currently reading
426 people want to read
About the author
Nicholas Sansbury Smith
103 books2,382 followersNicholas Sansbury Smith is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of more than forty novels with two million copies sold. Before his writing career, he served at Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management, a background that inspired many of his story concepts. A two time Ironman triathlete, he enjoys running, biking, and hiking. Nicholas also loves traveling, especially to his cabin in Northern Minnesota where he weaves his tales. He lives in Iowa with his wonderful wife and their son and daughter.
Note: Nicholas is no longer an active user on Goodreads and does not use the platform. If you want to connect with him on social media here are some links. He would love to hear from you.
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Website: nicholassansburysmith.com
Instagram: instagram.com/author_sansbury/
Note: Nicholas is no longer an active user on Goodreads and does not use the platform. If you want to connect with him on social media here are some links. He would love to hear from you.
Facebook Fan Club: https://www.facebook.com/groups/NSSFa...
Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/nicholassans...
Website: nicholassansburysmith.com
Instagram: instagram.com/author_sansbury/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 138 reviews
April 10, 2025
"WELCOME TO THE FRONT LINES OF THE SECOND CIVIL WAR."
Trackers 3: The Storm (A Post-Apocalyptic EMP Survival Thriller) by Nicholas Sansbury Smith is a well written tell of the possibility of what might happen in the event of a EMP and a nuclear attack on the U.S. The characters are brought to the pages in the way that will leave feeling as if you are right in the action with Raven, Colton, Lindsay, Charlize, Albert, and the rest of the city Estes Park, Colorado and what's remaining of the U.S. government is currently working out of Florida due to the nuclear attack on the Washington Capitol.
With China coming to the aid of the U.S., what was the catch, and what would it cost the U.S. in the long run?
The gangs such as MS-13, Latin Kings, and the Russian Mafia wreaking havoc everywhere, your normally law-abiding citizens were so desperate they were capable of killing for a can of beans, it is looking to what someone could call their current situation as the second civil war in the United States. Most of the people were starving and scared, and that's where all hell can break out at any moment.
If you're into action-packed apocalyptic thrillers with heroes who are determined to place their lives on the line for the families, friends, neighbors, towns, and their country, this book and series is just waiting for you to to take you on an adventure through what we all hope will never come to be.
Quotes:
"Dogs could sence when someone was in pain. They picked up on the subtle signs humans could never see. Creek would do everything in his power to protect and comfort Raven. Now, that was loyalty. That was honor."
Trackers 3: The Storm (A Post-Apocalyptic EMP Survival Thriller) by Nicholas Sansbury Smith is a well written tell of the possibility of what might happen in the event of a EMP and a nuclear attack on the U.S. The characters are brought to the pages in the way that will leave feeling as if you are right in the action with Raven, Colton, Lindsay, Charlize, Albert, and the rest of the city Estes Park, Colorado and what's remaining of the U.S. government is currently working out of Florida due to the nuclear attack on the Washington Capitol.
With China coming to the aid of the U.S., what was the catch, and what would it cost the U.S. in the long run?
The gangs such as MS-13, Latin Kings, and the Russian Mafia wreaking havoc everywhere, your normally law-abiding citizens were so desperate they were capable of killing for a can of beans, it is looking to what someone could call their current situation as the second civil war in the United States. Most of the people were starving and scared, and that's where all hell can break out at any moment.
If you're into action-packed apocalyptic thrillers with heroes who are determined to place their lives on the line for the families, friends, neighbors, towns, and their country, this book and series is just waiting for you to to take you on an adventure through what we all hope will never come to be.
Quotes:
"Dogs could sence when someone was in pain. They picked up on the subtle signs humans could never see. Creek would do everything in his power to protect and comfort Raven. Now, that was loyalty. That was honor."
April 18, 2023
“Welcome to the front lines of the second Civil War.”
It’s been a month since the North Korean attack, the United States continues its downward spiral into apocalyptic times. There is a limping government left in place, but rival gangs and small communities continue to struggle for power and survival.
He was a firm believer the government had a duty to protect its citizens, but the combination of the EMP and nuclear attack had crippled the United States beyond repair.
Typical NSS writing, full of nonstop action and a realistic take on how people would battle for supplies and basic survival. Highly entertaining and frightening.
It’s been a month since the North Korean attack, the United States continues its downward spiral into apocalyptic times. There is a limping government left in place, but rival gangs and small communities continue to struggle for power and survival.
He was a firm believer the government had a duty to protect its citizens, but the combination of the EMP and nuclear attack had crippled the United States beyond repair.
Typical NSS writing, full of nonstop action and a realistic take on how people would battle for supplies and basic survival. Highly entertaining and frightening.
September 4, 2017
Brutally authentic!
Once again Nicholas Sansbury Smith has amped up the dark reality of life in a post apocalyptic United States. This intense story is not for the faint of heart. No punches are pulled as law and order continues to devolve, replaced by vicious factions competing for dwindling resources. Exceptionally written and highly recommended series.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Once again Nicholas Sansbury Smith has amped up the dark reality of life in a post apocalyptic United States. This intense story is not for the faint of heart. No punches are pulled as law and order continues to devolve, replaced by vicious factions competing for dwindling resources. Exceptionally written and highly recommended series.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 21, 2017
I'm starting to lose my interest in this series. I don't quite know why, but I just never seemed to look forward to getting back to this book. Perhaps it's the narrator of the audiobook. Instead of using different voices, Bronson Pinchot differentiates the characters by changing the intonation of the way they speak. This ends up with several of them sounding ridiculous, and stressing words in very strange ways. I keep getting thrown out of the story, and thinking -- nobody would ever talk like that!
October 24, 2017
My original Trackers 3: The Storm audiobook review and many others can be found at Audiobook Reviewer.
🏆🎧 ABR Reviewer's Choice Award Winner
There is nothing more frightening than reality. Nicholas Sansbury Smith knows this and uses it mercilessly. In Trackers, Smith has created a series that could mimic our future if North Korea acts as threatened. There are no monsters and no evil greater than ourselves; Smith weaves a story that demonstrates too close to the reality of what would happen!
Trackers 3 is the next installment of Senator Charlize, Albert, Colton, Raven and the town of Estes Park. Each character is faced with a new issue; a new danger or a new mission or a betrayal of epic proportions. Decisions come fast and hard; some make it, some don’t. Smith shows us how gang mentality plays out – whether it is Latin Kings or Nazi-Racist survivalist the end is always the same – death, destruction and the summation of all things wrong with humankind. While I could give you a taste of the storyline, I fear I would not do it justice and I might reveal too much. Suffice it to say, this book takes you places where fear is too real and not where you expect to go.
Smith is relentless in his creativity and packs each line with action, fear or some other emotion that leaves one bug-eyed in anticipation of what’s to come next. I have listened to Smith’s books beginning with the Extinction Series moving on to Hell Divers and now Trackers. Smith, in his writing, is not only entertaining and terrifying; he is detailed in every aspect capturing our fear and twisting it more and more until we are breathless.
Bronson Pinchot, the narrator, is magnificent! Pinchot becomes completely engrossed in the tale capturing Smiths vision and gives us a stunning performance. Pinchot is smooth transitioning effortlessly to the next intense action. Together, Pinchot and Smith are formidable!
NOTE: Have you ever wondered where people get their ideas? It should be known that Smith used to work for the Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management … maybe he knows something we don’t …
There were no issues with the audio quality or production of this audiobook.
Audiobook was provided for review by the author.
🏆🎧 ABR Reviewer's Choice Award Winner
There is nothing more frightening than reality. Nicholas Sansbury Smith knows this and uses it mercilessly. In Trackers, Smith has created a series that could mimic our future if North Korea acts as threatened. There are no monsters and no evil greater than ourselves; Smith weaves a story that demonstrates too close to the reality of what would happen!
Trackers 3 is the next installment of Senator Charlize, Albert, Colton, Raven and the town of Estes Park. Each character is faced with a new issue; a new danger or a new mission or a betrayal of epic proportions. Decisions come fast and hard; some make it, some don’t. Smith shows us how gang mentality plays out – whether it is Latin Kings or Nazi-Racist survivalist the end is always the same – death, destruction and the summation of all things wrong with humankind. While I could give you a taste of the storyline, I fear I would not do it justice and I might reveal too much. Suffice it to say, this book takes you places where fear is too real and not where you expect to go.
Smith is relentless in his creativity and packs each line with action, fear or some other emotion that leaves one bug-eyed in anticipation of what’s to come next. I have listened to Smith’s books beginning with the Extinction Series moving on to Hell Divers and now Trackers. Smith, in his writing, is not only entertaining and terrifying; he is detailed in every aspect capturing our fear and twisting it more and more until we are breathless.
Bronson Pinchot, the narrator, is magnificent! Pinchot becomes completely engrossed in the tale capturing Smiths vision and gives us a stunning performance. Pinchot is smooth transitioning effortlessly to the next intense action. Together, Pinchot and Smith are formidable!
NOTE: Have you ever wondered where people get their ideas? It should be known that Smith used to work for the Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management … maybe he knows something we don’t …
There were no issues with the audio quality or production of this audiobook.
Audiobook was provided for review by the author.
September 4, 2017
The Storm was an excellent followup to Trackers 2! The story is very real and is a forewarning to our current situation with North Korea. Colton and Raven continue to fight the evil men that have risen to power in the post-apocalyptic ruin that is the United States. Charlize wants to save everyone...but will she be able to? The decisions that need to be made are tough and everyday citizens's lives are impacted. The United States may survive, but will it resemble anything we are used to? Eagerly waiting for the 4th book!
I highly recommend this series to anyone that enjoys reading about realistic post-apocalyptic fiction - and hopefully it remains fiction.
I highly recommend this series to anyone that enjoys reading about realistic post-apocalyptic fiction - and hopefully it remains fiction.
October 12, 2017
This third book in the series keeps up the tension and adds even more excitement!
The enduring town of Estes Park, Colorado has already faced its share of challenges after the detonation of an EMP destroyed the electrical grid and vehicles alike. Police Chief Marcus Colton continues to try his best to protect this small town from incoming wanderers and with the assistance of Raven Spears, they just might be able to get through the coming winter.
But elsewhere, many have realized that the normal law and order is either gone, unenforceable or just a blatant invitation to violence. As dangerous groups are formed and maniacal men find followers, the threat to Estes Park is building.... and the storm is coming.
Incredibly well done!
The enduring town of Estes Park, Colorado has already faced its share of challenges after the detonation of an EMP destroyed the electrical grid and vehicles alike. Police Chief Marcus Colton continues to try his best to protect this small town from incoming wanderers and with the assistance of Raven Spears, they just might be able to get through the coming winter.
But elsewhere, many have realized that the normal law and order is either gone, unenforceable or just a blatant invitation to violence. As dangerous groups are formed and maniacal men find followers, the threat to Estes Park is building.... and the storm is coming.
Incredibly well done!
September 12, 2017
Wow! Mr. Sansbury has done it again. What a pickle we have managed to find ourselves in. Who will live, who will die, what happens next? It's all in here! Awesomeness! Now I have to wait for the next one to answer some of my questions. Can't wait! Get your copy today; you won't be sorry.
September 7, 2017
The fast paced action of the first two books in the Trackers series races on in this third book of the series. The story continues, the excitement increases. Well done, well written, as always by the author Nicholas Sansbury Smith.
I was given an advanced reader copy of this book in return for an honest review.
I was given an advanced reader copy of this book in return for an honest review.
January 7, 2018
Book three in the TRACKERS series definitely does not disappoint...
Chaos and anarchy are the rules of the day in the U.S. since North Korea attacked. Those people that want law and order on their side are quickly becoming a minority as the rules of staying alive are changing, almost by the minute.
Estes Park, Colorado is at the center again of book three in the TRACKERS series. They just want to keep their citizens alive but are being attacked by a neo-Nazi group, raiders, old enemies, new enemies, and also from within.
Sam "Raven" Spears and his dog, Creek, play a big part in this book too but another person that I was glad to read more about was Albert Randall, security agent for Secretary of Defense Charlize Montgomery. Albert heads to Charlotte, North Carolina trying to rescue his estranged twin sister and encounters much more than he expected.
Characters that are full of life, heart stopping action scenes, descriptive prose that pulled me right into past memories I have of Estes Park and the Colorado Rocky Mountains - all of these things are major reasons that I buy every book of author Nicholas Smith's that I hear about. Oh, and he's even publishing this earlier than planned - September 12, 2017.
I did receive an early Advanced Reading Copy of this book but I bought my own copy too to support one of my favorite authors.
Chaos and anarchy are the rules of the day in the U.S. since North Korea attacked. Those people that want law and order on their side are quickly becoming a minority as the rules of staying alive are changing, almost by the minute.
Estes Park, Colorado is at the center again of book three in the TRACKERS series. They just want to keep their citizens alive but are being attacked by a neo-Nazi group, raiders, old enemies, new enemies, and also from within.
Sam "Raven" Spears and his dog, Creek, play a big part in this book too but another person that I was glad to read more about was Albert Randall, security agent for Secretary of Defense Charlize Montgomery. Albert heads to Charlotte, North Carolina trying to rescue his estranged twin sister and encounters much more than he expected.
Characters that are full of life, heart stopping action scenes, descriptive prose that pulled me right into past memories I have of Estes Park and the Colorado Rocky Mountains - all of these things are major reasons that I buy every book of author Nicholas Smith's that I hear about. Oh, and he's even publishing this earlier than planned - September 12, 2017.
I did receive an early Advanced Reading Copy of this book but I bought my own copy too to support one of my favorite authors.
September 15, 2017
Alright, Trackers 3 starts off right where Trackers 2 left off. Mr Smith has written a very good book series that is so with the times of what we are all dreading, another war with North Korea. The story has action, drama, heros, villains, victims, innocents and not so innocents all intertwined into an amazing story that I just could not put down. I hate giving away anything about the story as I find it ruins it for me when others do. Read the authors synopsis, it's more than enough to get anyone interested. I have to say, I love the main characters, you really grow to know and like most of them and some you will despise for their greed and inhumanity toward their fellow man. Mr. Smith writes these novels with a high level of understanding just what can happen if we were ever atttacked with an EMP Nuke. His background in disaster and emergency preparedness makes his story reach a level few can achieve. I highly recommend this book as well as the first two books in this series.
December 4, 2019
Meh. This whole series has been an interesting idea, but it's just not executed well. The story is very linear and predictable, characters are one dimensional, lots of use of cliches. The only surprises come when a character makes a choice that doesn't fit their arc at all. It's just not quite there.
February 19, 2019
The more of this series that I listen to the more I dislike the way people in power misuse their power for their gain it had to be hard to go out and fight for someone else’s family while not knowing if your own was dead or alive.
October 23, 2017
The possibility of an EMP attack is very real, and Mr. Smith gives us a good look into what might happen following one. North Korea's attack on the US has devastated the country and every horrible possibility that you can imagine is here in this series!
The story continues in The Storm, with all of the previous characters from books 1 and 2. Mr. Smith's writing is excellent, well thought out and the characters well developed.
If you love action, this book has it. If you love apocalyptic stories, this book definitely delivers. There are traitors, villains, heroes....and loads of action!
I look forward to reading the final book in the series!
The story continues in The Storm, with all of the previous characters from books 1 and 2. Mr. Smith's writing is excellent, well thought out and the characters well developed.
If you love action, this book has it. If you love apocalyptic stories, this book definitely delivers. There are traitors, villains, heroes....and loads of action!
I look forward to reading the final book in the series!
September 5, 2017
Intense, gritty, frighteningly raw and realistic. Begins shortly after book 2 ends. Tight, well written, continues to follow the struggles of a number of significant characters with a smooth transiton from chapter (character) to chapter (other characters).
As with the two previous books, the story behind the attacks and the struggles to survive is multi-layered and continues to unfold. I rated the book 4.75
I stongly believe that this series is the authors best work to date. Anxiously awaiting book 4. Well done Nick!!!!
As with the two previous books, the story behind the attacks and the struggles to survive is multi-layered and continues to unfold. I rated the book 4.75
I stongly believe that this series is the authors best work to date. Anxiously awaiting book 4. Well done Nick!!!!
April 10, 2018
An EMP attack sent the country into turmoil and things only get worse for the survivors.
This series never lets up. The hits keep on coming for our survivors. As we flash back and forth across the country, following each groups footsteps, the danger and suspense increases.
Having read the first two books, I knew I couldn’t count on my some of my beloved characters to make it. That sure added to the intensity as I turned each page with bated breath. It’s only been a month since the attack and everything fell apart so fast.There was no let up in the action. And it all felt so real. Something like this could happen and that makes this extra scary. And it never ceased to amaze me what people would do to each other. The worst case scenario brings out the worst.
I’m thrilled to say this was every bit as intense as the previous books.
This series never lets up. The hits keep on coming for our survivors. As we flash back and forth across the country, following each groups footsteps, the danger and suspense increases.
Having read the first two books, I knew I couldn’t count on my some of my beloved characters to make it. That sure added to the intensity as I turned each page with bated breath. It’s only been a month since the attack and everything fell apart so fast.There was no let up in the action. And it all felt so real. Something like this could happen and that makes this extra scary. And it never ceased to amaze me what people would do to each other. The worst case scenario brings out the worst.
I’m thrilled to say this was every bit as intense as the previous books.
September 12, 2017
Episode 3: We find the good citizens of Estes Park still fighting for survival. Raven ambushed by people he thought were friends and Colton captured while seeking help, only to learn the community is actually the raiders stronghold. The new President has to accept supplies and troops from China to help stabilise the country , while he worries if it is a precursor to a more diabolical plot from them. Fellow readers stay tuned for the next exciting episode in the Trackers Saga , if only it was sooner .
September 5, 2017
The WOW factor abounds in Nick Smith's newest Tracker book - Storm. Estes Park is surrounded by enemies, Colton and Raven are split up as they struggle to obtain help for the desperate town and the east coast is slowly descending into lawlessness. An intriguing, intense story that is way too close to events happening around us today. Well done Nick.
October 24, 2017
Amazing continuation of the series. More dangerous and suspenseful than the first two. All of the events in the book could very well happen. Colten, Raven, Creek and the rest must survive but at what cost.
September 21, 2017
I have enjoyed this series from the start. The twist at the end was mind boggling. I cannot wait for Trackers 4. You have to read this amazing collection!
October 16, 2017
This was a Good book. Story is excellent, characters are excellent, looking forward to the next one in the series.
September 20, 2017
Reading is Life
Another first class story. This series gets better and better, you are hanging on from start to finish. I love escaping into the worlds created by Nicholas Sansbury Smith. His characters become friends or enemies and the need to know what happens to them keeps you reading at every little gap in life you get.
Another first class story. This series gets better and better, you are hanging on from start to finish. I love escaping into the worlds created by Nicholas Sansbury Smith. His characters become friends or enemies and the need to know what happens to them keeps you reading at every little gap in life you get.
September 25, 2017
Never a doubt.
Nicholas Sansbury Smith continues to hit grandslams with this series. A real nail biter and so full of action and betrayal that it blows the mind. Hope this series continues for many more years. Highly recommend!!
Nicholas Sansbury Smith continues to hit grandslams with this series. A real nail biter and so full of action and betrayal that it blows the mind. Hope this series continues for many more years. Highly recommend!!
October 27, 2017
This one took me forever to read. I don't know why - I just was not as into the characters as I have been in all the rest of his books. It almost felt like someone different wrote it. And I tried to like her, I wanted to like her, but I can't - Senator Montgomery does not seem to do anything except pull strings for her loved ones. I still can't figure out what value she adds to the plot or to the people in the story. And after all that, the person they want to rescue is that? Really? How do you root for them? Not to mention, she manages to make a huge supply drop to the town for their help, but where did she get it if supplies are sooooo limited for everyone else?
It makes me despondent that if there ever was a real catastrophe, you truly are on your own with no help from your government because they only help their own (I choose not to believe that). That's the moral I'm getting from this story. Maybe it's intentional...
It makes me despondent that if there ever was a real catastrophe, you truly are on your own with no help from your government because they only help their own (I choose not to believe that). That's the moral I'm getting from this story. Maybe it's intentional...
September 12, 2017
Which post-apocalyptic reader needs to think twice about a novel from Smith? In this book Nick nicely turns the screws tighter on our beloved main characters Charlize, Raven and Marcus. It isn't always an easy read - but then we've come to expect that from Nick. Made even more uneasy thanks to current affairs in the world that are matching this work of fiction far too closely for anyone's comfort.
But even that said, this is really a phenomenal read. Nick's writing style refines itself every time I read it, and he pulls me into his imagination more and more easily by the book. While on the one hand it scares me to think what the next episode (don't get me wrong - these are full-length novels!) of this story will bring, I can't wait to see it.
Another five-star entry from Nick.
But even that said, this is really a phenomenal read. Nick's writing style refines itself every time I read it, and he pulls me into his imagination more and more easily by the book. While on the one hand it scares me to think what the next episode (don't get me wrong - these are full-length novels!) of this story will bring, I can't wait to see it.
Another five-star entry from Nick.
September 10, 2022
Nicholas Sansbury Smith has done it again. Trackers 3, set in a post apocalyptic Estes Park, Colorado keeps you involved throughout. Colton, Raven, & Lindsey have their hands full once again with raiders and unscrupulous members of their own team. Don't want to say too much, because don't want to put spoilers here. Just pick it up and you won't regret it.
October 8, 2017
The third entry in this quadrilogy was absolutely fantastic. As my title hints at, the book is very surreal in that it drew me into a world that felt less like fiction and more like reality. This leads me to the second adjective in my description of this book being terrifying. The realism with which the various groups in this story are described is nothing short of breathtaking. Knowing full well what the world would descend into upon the loss of law and order, Nick has really driven home this aspect of our nature and the tendency towards chaos without some form of oversight or governance.
I am going to try and write this review without spoilers so I am likely going to end up leaving out some details I really want to include. Let me start out by saying that I was fearful, at multiple points in the story, that Nick was going the way of George R. R. Martin and was set on killing off main characters in the series. Those of you who have read this series to date will know the characters I am referring to. I pushed through, regardless of my feelings at the time, and was very pleased with the outcome of this story. Needless to say, I am now certain that Nick is a mad man in the way he writes, a method which keeps you on the edge of your seat as you hang on for a very emotional ride.
There are very key aspects of humanity which Nick hits on in the story, a trait I have noted in every series he has written. In a wartime situation, how does one decide who is granted access to a town that is already strapped for resources? How do you make the hard decisions that are required in a time of crisis, something Charlize finds herself faced with at various points in this novel? When resources are limited, how do you decide where those resources are distributed to, such as the case of the Charlotte Survival Center? These are decisions I would not want to make myself, nor are they decisions I could ever imagine making or wish upon someone else to make.
One of the key things I picked up on in this powerful novel was how to explain to a child what was happening, had happened, or was going to happen. As parents, we often want to shield our children from the evils of the world while also preparing them to survive in it. In a situation such as the one found in Trackers, some of the citizens are faced with explaining to their children what is going on. This is seen with the encounter Dave had towards the end of the novel as he is forced into an action his young mind was ill-prepared for.
Another aspect of humanity that I found intriguing was the betrayal which took place later in the novel. The specific scene I am referring to involved Don and was immediately reminiscent to Nick’s other work, Extinction Cycle, where-by a carrier group was almost taken over by a rogue military officer.
You see various groups come to the forefront in this novel as society is in shambles and attempts to maintain some semblance of order. The gangs bring about a new dynamic and challenge for those who seeking order and peace.
I won’t give a spoiler but I will see that I found myself drawn to Raven and Creek in this entry. Additionally, Nick really got me thinking with this novel as to just how unprepared most are for a situation such as this. What do you do when the luxuries (which, we have to admit that is what electricity and the technologies we have today are) we are so used to are gone? What happens when another country enters ours as an occupying force?
This is an easy 5/5 entry from my favorite author. The prologue and epilogue of this story are fantastic as well and the prologue shows just how much research Nick puts into his stories. This is one trait that draws me into his work and shows his desire for being thorough in telling a tale.
With the state of the world today, Trackers leaves me with just one question: ”Where will I be when the EMP attack occurs?” Nick might be a fiction/sci-fi writer, but this is a story that is quickly looking more and more like it was a Nostradamus style foreshadowing of things to come.
I am going to try and write this review without spoilers so I am likely going to end up leaving out some details I really want to include. Let me start out by saying that I was fearful, at multiple points in the story, that Nick was going the way of George R. R. Martin and was set on killing off main characters in the series. Those of you who have read this series to date will know the characters I am referring to. I pushed through, regardless of my feelings at the time, and was very pleased with the outcome of this story. Needless to say, I am now certain that Nick is a mad man in the way he writes, a method which keeps you on the edge of your seat as you hang on for a very emotional ride.
There are very key aspects of humanity which Nick hits on in the story, a trait I have noted in every series he has written. In a wartime situation, how does one decide who is granted access to a town that is already strapped for resources? How do you make the hard decisions that are required in a time of crisis, something Charlize finds herself faced with at various points in this novel? When resources are limited, how do you decide where those resources are distributed to, such as the case of the Charlotte Survival Center? These are decisions I would not want to make myself, nor are they decisions I could ever imagine making or wish upon someone else to make.
One of the key things I picked up on in this powerful novel was how to explain to a child what was happening, had happened, or was going to happen. As parents, we often want to shield our children from the evils of the world while also preparing them to survive in it. In a situation such as the one found in Trackers, some of the citizens are faced with explaining to their children what is going on. This is seen with the encounter Dave had towards the end of the novel as he is forced into an action his young mind was ill-prepared for.
Another aspect of humanity that I found intriguing was the betrayal which took place later in the novel. The specific scene I am referring to involved Don and was immediately reminiscent to Nick’s other work, Extinction Cycle, where-by a carrier group was almost taken over by a rogue military officer.
You see various groups come to the forefront in this novel as society is in shambles and attempts to maintain some semblance of order. The gangs bring about a new dynamic and challenge for those who seeking order and peace.
I won’t give a spoiler but I will see that I found myself drawn to Raven and Creek in this entry. Additionally, Nick really got me thinking with this novel as to just how unprepared most are for a situation such as this. What do you do when the luxuries (which, we have to admit that is what electricity and the technologies we have today are) we are so used to are gone? What happens when another country enters ours as an occupying force?
This is an easy 5/5 entry from my favorite author. The prologue and epilogue of this story are fantastic as well and the prologue shows just how much research Nick puts into his stories. This is one trait that draws me into his work and shows his desire for being thorough in telling a tale.
With the state of the world today, Trackers leaves me with just one question: ”Where will I be when the EMP attack occurs?” Nick might be a fiction/sci-fi writer, but this is a story that is quickly looking more and more like it was a Nostradamus style foreshadowing of things to come.
October 30, 2018
I have just flown through these first 3 books in this series. For the characters, these events all take place in the space of a few weeks. Ty is now safely with his mom, Secretary of Defense Charlize Montgomery, in a secure facility in Florida where there’s still electricity and communications with the outside world. Raven Spears continues to work with police chief Colton in Estes Park, Colorado. The white supremacist leader, Fenix, is still out there and still a threat.
One of my favorite story lines in this book is where Big Al, Charlize’s body guard, is given the chance to go find and rescue his sister. She’s his twin and his last remaining family. Al lost his wife and kids in the initial strikes and he can’t let his sister go. Turns out she’s got a drug problem and that opens a little can of worms; how to justify the man power & supplies & risk to locate her and bring her back to the secure facility? All sorts of great questions came up as we followed Big Al on his personal mission. They go through gang-controlled streets, bump into an abandoned kid with a LotR complex, and then have to see about a drugged out sister. Who is worthy of the very limited help available? People like Charlize and President Diego have to the make those calls on a big picture level. Big Al has to make those decisions in the moment on the ground on a smaller scale.
Meanwhile, in Estes Park, roving bands of violent looters become an issue. Some of these looters are drug addicted. Redford’s gang is the most troublesome of these looters because they are organized. The body count rises and police chief Marcus Colton is pulling his hair out trying to keep Estes Park safe. Mayor Andrews and her lackeys aren’t helping matters. A schism has developed between these two groups, but both want the best for Estes Park. I was very pleased to see that police detective Lindsey Plymouth had a bigger role in this book. Raven’s attempts at flirtation were a secondary thing but provided some much needed humor for the story.
Colton knows that Estes Park needs allies. Between Niles Redford’s gang, General Dan Felix (leader of the white supremacist group Sons of Liberty), and the influx of refugees, Estes Park could easily be over run. Lindsey and Raven are sent to Storm Mountain to meet with the local preppers group led by John Kirkus. Colton believes he can make a good alliance with Sheriff Thompson of Fort Collins. There is more than one betrayal and I was shocked and a little distraught over how things turned out for some of my favorite characters. Estes Park is in so much trouble!
I’ve really gotten attached to this story despite the ladies having a backseat to the men. Charlize, a retired fighter pilot, hasn’t gotten into the pilot’s seat yet. Lindsey shows promise but hasn’t gone out hunting or scouting or tracking solo like the men do. Raven’s sister Sandra is still a competent nurse at the hospital but doesn’t do much other than patch Raven up. Martha, a minor character from Book 2, is a doctor but hasn’t done much other than bleed a lot. I just need a bit more from the ladies to make this series rock. After all, Colorado is known for it’s hardy, independent, capable women. 4.75/5 stars.
The Narration: Bronson Pinchot continues to give a great voice for Raven and for Colton. His voice for President Diego continues to grate a bit. Pinchot’s female voices are feminine and his kid voices work well too. His calm creepy voices also work really well for our multiple bad guys. 4.75/5 stars.
One of my favorite story lines in this book is where Big Al, Charlize’s body guard, is given the chance to go find and rescue his sister. She’s his twin and his last remaining family. Al lost his wife and kids in the initial strikes and he can’t let his sister go. Turns out she’s got a drug problem and that opens a little can of worms; how to justify the man power & supplies & risk to locate her and bring her back to the secure facility? All sorts of great questions came up as we followed Big Al on his personal mission. They go through gang-controlled streets, bump into an abandoned kid with a LotR complex, and then have to see about a drugged out sister. Who is worthy of the very limited help available? People like Charlize and President Diego have to the make those calls on a big picture level. Big Al has to make those decisions in the moment on the ground on a smaller scale.
Meanwhile, in Estes Park, roving bands of violent looters become an issue. Some of these looters are drug addicted. Redford’s gang is the most troublesome of these looters because they are organized. The body count rises and police chief Marcus Colton is pulling his hair out trying to keep Estes Park safe. Mayor Andrews and her lackeys aren’t helping matters. A schism has developed between these two groups, but both want the best for Estes Park. I was very pleased to see that police detective Lindsey Plymouth had a bigger role in this book. Raven’s attempts at flirtation were a secondary thing but provided some much needed humor for the story.
Colton knows that Estes Park needs allies. Between Niles Redford’s gang, General Dan Felix (leader of the white supremacist group Sons of Liberty), and the influx of refugees, Estes Park could easily be over run. Lindsey and Raven are sent to Storm Mountain to meet with the local preppers group led by John Kirkus. Colton believes he can make a good alliance with Sheriff Thompson of Fort Collins. There is more than one betrayal and I was shocked and a little distraught over how things turned out for some of my favorite characters. Estes Park is in so much trouble!
I’ve really gotten attached to this story despite the ladies having a backseat to the men. Charlize, a retired fighter pilot, hasn’t gotten into the pilot’s seat yet. Lindsey shows promise but hasn’t gone out hunting or scouting or tracking solo like the men do. Raven’s sister Sandra is still a competent nurse at the hospital but doesn’t do much other than patch Raven up. Martha, a minor character from Book 2, is a doctor but hasn’t done much other than bleed a lot. I just need a bit more from the ladies to make this series rock. After all, Colorado is known for it’s hardy, independent, capable women. 4.75/5 stars.
The Narration: Bronson Pinchot continues to give a great voice for Raven and for Colton. His voice for President Diego continues to grate a bit. Pinchot’s female voices are feminine and his kid voices work well too. His calm creepy voices also work really well for our multiple bad guys. 4.75/5 stars.
September 15, 2017
North Korea has exploded nuclear weapons high in the sky above the U.S.
The resulting EMP overloaded the electrical grid supplying the U.S. and parts of Canada and Mexico. In retaliation, North Korea was treated to a storm of nuclear missiles, leveling the country with nuclear fire. A container ship containing a hidden nuclear device exploded just outside Washington D.C., destroying the Whitehouse and Capital Building, and burying the PEOC under tons of concrete and burning rubble. The EMP wave also destroyed the electronics in most modern devices, including cars built after 1969. The highways had quickly become crammed with nonfunctional autos and trucks and people with nowhere to go and no way to get there.
Without power, the situation was becoming desperate across the country. In Estes Park, Colorado, home of the famous Stanley Hotel, Police Chief Marcus Colton and his small force struggle to maintain order and calm to the growing population of the town. Break ins, burglaries and robberies plague Colton's police force. Major Nathan Sardetti, stranded when his fighter jet was caught by the EMP wave and forced to eject in the area, helped Colton and Cherokee tracker Sam 'Raven' Spears capture the responsible crew.
If you haven't read Trackers 1 or Trackers 2, stop here because spoilers follow, and you really need to catch up with one of the best written stories documenting the collapse of the country following a major disaster, and meet the characters you'll learn to love or hate, admire or detest, no in betweens.
Secretary of Defense Charlize Montgomery was torn between the joy of reunion with her son Ty and the loss of her brother Nathan Sardetti during Ty's rescue from neo-nazi General Dan Fenix and his skinhead army. Felix had executed Nathan in front of Ty, terrorizing Ty's nightmares with the memory. Leaving Ty to attend to the country's defense agonized her, but the very real threats forced her attention. Trying to supply the Survival Centers located around the U.S. with food and medicines for the desperate refugees, fighting against the gangs and criminal organizations.
In Estes Park, the threat from General Fenix's troops, Niles Redford's gang, and refugees seeking aid is overwhelming Police Chief Marcus Colton's small force. Attempting to forge alliances with nearby groups, Colton travels to Fort Collins to meet with Sheriff Thompson and sends Detective Lindsey Plymouth and Sam 'Raven' Spears to Storm Mountain to meet with John Kirkus and his group. Neither meeting turned out as expected. . .
But you can read for yourself the terrifying world facing these wonderful characters that you just can't help but love or hate. The story is exciting and thrilling, terrifying and engulfing. You won't want to stop once you start, and I can't wait for Trackers 4 to be released!
The resulting EMP overloaded the electrical grid supplying the U.S. and parts of Canada and Mexico. In retaliation, North Korea was treated to a storm of nuclear missiles, leveling the country with nuclear fire. A container ship containing a hidden nuclear device exploded just outside Washington D.C., destroying the Whitehouse and Capital Building, and burying the PEOC under tons of concrete and burning rubble. The EMP wave also destroyed the electronics in most modern devices, including cars built after 1969. The highways had quickly become crammed with nonfunctional autos and trucks and people with nowhere to go and no way to get there.
Without power, the situation was becoming desperate across the country. In Estes Park, Colorado, home of the famous Stanley Hotel, Police Chief Marcus Colton and his small force struggle to maintain order and calm to the growing population of the town. Break ins, burglaries and robberies plague Colton's police force. Major Nathan Sardetti, stranded when his fighter jet was caught by the EMP wave and forced to eject in the area, helped Colton and Cherokee tracker Sam 'Raven' Spears capture the responsible crew.
If you haven't read Trackers 1 or Trackers 2, stop here because spoilers follow, and you really need to catch up with one of the best written stories documenting the collapse of the country following a major disaster, and meet the characters you'll learn to love or hate, admire or detest, no in betweens.
Secretary of Defense Charlize Montgomery was torn between the joy of reunion with her son Ty and the loss of her brother Nathan Sardetti during Ty's rescue from neo-nazi General Dan Fenix and his skinhead army. Felix had executed Nathan in front of Ty, terrorizing Ty's nightmares with the memory. Leaving Ty to attend to the country's defense agonized her, but the very real threats forced her attention. Trying to supply the Survival Centers located around the U.S. with food and medicines for the desperate refugees, fighting against the gangs and criminal organizations.
In Estes Park, the threat from General Fenix's troops, Niles Redford's gang, and refugees seeking aid is overwhelming Police Chief Marcus Colton's small force. Attempting to forge alliances with nearby groups, Colton travels to Fort Collins to meet with Sheriff Thompson and sends Detective Lindsey Plymouth and Sam 'Raven' Spears to Storm Mountain to meet with John Kirkus and his group. Neither meeting turned out as expected. . .
But you can read for yourself the terrifying world facing these wonderful characters that you just can't help but love or hate. The story is exciting and thrilling, terrifying and engulfing. You won't want to stop once you start, and I can't wait for Trackers 4 to be released!
November 8, 2017
Trackers 3, like its predecessors in this series, takes readers on a wild ride...one that may actually happen in the very near future. There is so much going on and the author does a fantastic job at showing different POV's in a country ruled by chaos after an EMP attack by the North Koreans.
Eastes Park still suffers from turmoil in its leadership ranks - thinking more of their personal goals than the safety and welfare of the people and town. Since rescuing the Secretary of Defense's son from the Skinheads, she has rewarded the small town with containers of food, water and other supplies to help get them through the winter. Unfortunately, this gesture puts a bullseye on the town and is attracting marauders and gangs to come and get what they have for themselves.
Albert Randall, the Secretary's bodyguard, is given permission to travel to Charlotte and rescue his sister - if she's still alive. He is accompanied by two soldiers who try to keep him safe during his search. He learns that she is still alive, but getting to her requires that they sneak past two notorious street gangs who are battling one another for control of the city and also looking for the trio to avenge the deaths of fellow gang members. It soon turns into a deadly mission - one in which Albert may not survive.
The town sheriff, Colton, travels north to seek a partnership between his group and those in the nearby town. Clearly, the residents of Eastes Park don't stand a chance in trying to hold off marauders on their own...they're getting picked-off daily and their ranks are dwindling. Meanwhile, Raven and a female deputy also travel north to another well-known camp of patriots to ask for their help. They are double-crossed and things don't go so well from this point.
I have to admit that I was disappointed to find that book 4 isn't published yet and I'll have to wait until 2018 to see what happens next in this last book of the series and what becomes of all the characters I've grown fond of. I've already purchased the next installment and my Kindle will be watching for its delivery.
Great job Mr. Smith! So far, you've captivated me during the last 1000 pgs. of this story. Looking forward to completing this epic saga.
John Podlaski, author
'Cherries - A Vietnam War Novel' and 'When Can I Stop Running?'
Eastes Park still suffers from turmoil in its leadership ranks - thinking more of their personal goals than the safety and welfare of the people and town. Since rescuing the Secretary of Defense's son from the Skinheads, she has rewarded the small town with containers of food, water and other supplies to help get them through the winter. Unfortunately, this gesture puts a bullseye on the town and is attracting marauders and gangs to come and get what they have for themselves.
Albert Randall, the Secretary's bodyguard, is given permission to travel to Charlotte and rescue his sister - if she's still alive. He is accompanied by two soldiers who try to keep him safe during his search. He learns that she is still alive, but getting to her requires that they sneak past two notorious street gangs who are battling one another for control of the city and also looking for the trio to avenge the deaths of fellow gang members. It soon turns into a deadly mission - one in which Albert may not survive.
The town sheriff, Colton, travels north to seek a partnership between his group and those in the nearby town. Clearly, the residents of Eastes Park don't stand a chance in trying to hold off marauders on their own...they're getting picked-off daily and their ranks are dwindling. Meanwhile, Raven and a female deputy also travel north to another well-known camp of patriots to ask for their help. They are double-crossed and things don't go so well from this point.
I have to admit that I was disappointed to find that book 4 isn't published yet and I'll have to wait until 2018 to see what happens next in this last book of the series and what becomes of all the characters I've grown fond of. I've already purchased the next installment and my Kindle will be watching for its delivery.
Great job Mr. Smith! So far, you've captivated me during the last 1000 pgs. of this story. Looking forward to completing this epic saga.
John Podlaski, author
'Cherries - A Vietnam War Novel' and 'When Can I Stop Running?'
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