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Five Roads to Texas #4
Convergence: The Far Side of Hell
"--An action packed tale of love, betrayal and retribution." --J.L. Bourne Even in death, life rarely goes as planned. Having nothing left to live for, Malcom is given a shot at redemption when a woman named Tessa needs his help. With death looming, Malcom, Tessa and her children flee Cincinnati with their sights set on El Paso. They know the trip won't be easy, but nothing could prepare them for the nightmares ahead.Follow these new characters in the Five Roads to Texas series as they set sail on a harrowing journey to what might be the last bastion of hope in America.
- GenresHorror
340 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 18, 2018
138 people are currently reading
24 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
January 20, 2022
Note: This is part of a series. While these are completely new characters and this runs somewhat concurrently to others in the series - I’d definitely recommend at least reading book 1, Five Roads to Texas to understand the story.
Oh my gosh! I think this is my favorite of the series so far. Which is interesting given how much I love military books and this one was just regular folks. Survivor Malcom meets up with Tessa and her two children, teen Naomi & toddler TJ. Already dealing with grief and loss the alliance proved to be just as harrowing and emotional as the other stories.
Even simple trips to seemingly abandoned stores to stock up on supplies become fraught with dangers. After tragedy strikes the escape from Ohio, finding their way to Texas becomes even more urgent.
Safe. For now. I hope to hear more about these characters as the series goes on.
Narration:
Andrew B Wehrlen continues to be a great fit for the series. His voices and especially the emotions are wonderful.
Oh my gosh! I think this is my favorite of the series so far. Which is interesting given how much I love military books and this one was just regular folks. Survivor Malcom meets up with Tessa and her two children, teen Naomi & toddler TJ. Already dealing with grief and loss the alliance proved to be just as harrowing and emotional as the other stories.
Even simple trips to seemingly abandoned stores to stock up on supplies become fraught with dangers. After tragedy strikes the escape from Ohio, finding their way to Texas becomes even more urgent.
Safe. For now. I hope to hear more about these characters as the series goes on.
Narration:
Andrew B Wehrlen continues to be a great fit for the series. His voices and especially the emotions are wonderful.
March 12, 2019
Great add on to the series.
I really like AJ’s style. I loved Human Element and this book was every bit its equal, and it fit in nicely with the other books in the series. It great to see how the Five Roads universe is expanding.
I really like AJ’s style. I loved Human Element and this book was every bit its equal, and it fit in nicely with the other books in the series. It great to see how the Five Roads universe is expanding.
January 17, 2019
A man who has lost everything and is ready to give up on life finds new hope when he meets a family trying to cross the zombie infested country. He finds new reasons to survive by protecting the family and helping get them to a survivor camp in Texas. Great story with lots of action that keeps your interest throughout.
January 4, 2019
Very best idea for a new series. I'm hooked
February 7, 2021
Really enjoying this series so far and I think this is the best story so far
May 15, 2019
I received this book in exchange for an honest review from Audioboom! This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Convergence is the fourth book in Five Roads to Texas series. I haven’t read the previous books and I feel like you do need to read the previous 3 books to fully understand the story. I wasn’t entirely sure what was going on and I felt like it jumped around a bit and left me confused. I actually listened to the audiobook twice just to make sure I hadn’t spaced out and missed something. I think each book is about different sets of characters so this can be read as a standalone, I just felt like I didn’t get to see the whole picture because I didn’t read the first couple books.
I enjoyed the narration. That’s what kept me listening to the book and I’d listen to another book narrated by Andrew B. Wehrlen.
Convergence is the fourth book in Five Roads to Texas series. I haven’t read the previous books and I feel like you do need to read the previous 3 books to fully understand the story. I wasn’t entirely sure what was going on and I felt like it jumped around a bit and left me confused. I actually listened to the audiobook twice just to make sure I hadn’t spaced out and missed something. I think each book is about different sets of characters so this can be read as a standalone, I just felt like I didn’t get to see the whole picture because I didn’t read the first couple books.
I enjoyed the narration. That’s what kept me listening to the book and I’d listen to another book narrated by Andrew B. Wehrlen.
January 4, 2019
Hmmm... WHERE did these characters come from??
Is this SIX Roads to Texas now??
(I’ve given a less than 4 star rating maybe 3 times in 5 years. It’s painful to do so, as I know writers work so hard.)
I LOVE the FRTT series. Every character- even those I don’t like, and each storyline, is so phenomenal that it’s impossible to not get completely lost within the FRTT world. I anxiously await each new addition to the series.
With that said .... where the heck did these people come from in “Convergence “?!? Is it now “Six Roads to Texas”? I definitely didn’t expect this deviation from the - seemingly - main point or structure of the series. Personally, I’d MUCH rather pick up the tale of one of the existing characters, rather than some new people straight out of the blue.
Now, the new characters. And story. To sum it all up — Meh.
The character development was partially solid, I enjoyed that. For the two primary characters it was great. Unfortunately, a third character emerges from a secondary role to a primary one, with basically zero character development to be had. So we’re eventually left with a cardboard cutout of a character, all we know about this person is a smattering of ageism based stereotypes. That’s pretty boring.
Beyond the characters themselves, there wasn’t much ooomph to the story. Extremely difficult to become, and remain, lost in the pages of the book. Zero intrigue, minimal suspense, random occurrences that fit like square pegs in the round holes of the story, and dull, lackluster scenes in desperate need of detail.
The main mode of transportation is unique to the genre, in general. I actually feel it should be utilized more often as it has the potential to be really interesting in it’s novelty. Here it was more like a backdrop. Like — far in the distance backdrop. I suspect the author doesn’t have much (any?) knowledge in this area, and certainly did not do any research, which could explain the lack of life, details, and shine in this area of transport. A total miss here.
A sudden “change up” with one of the primary characters tanked the rest of the story. With that event, went dialogue. Which wasn’t all that enthralling to begin with, but at least it was there, carrying the story along.
I suppose some would characterize this book as “dark.” Dreary may be a better term.
The part of the story which held the most potential for tense emotions, adventure, and engagement - well, I guess it’s going to happen in the next book? As unfortunately this one ended right at that point.
Finally, if you are going to write a book with only a very few characters (pretty much 3 & 1/2 in this case, but it varies to less at times), the story has to be incredibly well done. The world you build becomes extremely important- it needs to be more than just ... there; a careless backdrop. And, naturally, the characters must sing. Even a book about one man on a deserted island can be enthralling. So, “Convergence,” is a missed opportunity, sadly.
I also just noticed the title doesn’t include the name of a primary FRTT character. Or one of the new characters we meet within “Convergence.” Such as, “Ian’s Road” or “Sidney’s Way.” This is another example of the problems with the characters and overall story — who and what the heck is this book about anyway??
(Additional thought - if this book was as fantastic as the others in the series, I don’t think I’d be so critical of new characters being introduced so randomly. The phenomenal reading experience would simply have me excited about welcoming the new storyline into the FRTT fold.)
Soooo........ if you’re a FRTT fan, go ahead, read this book. As it is part of the series, so you may as well. And these characters and/or storyline may somehow end up intersecting with the original FRTT storylines and characters at some point. You don’t want to be left behind. ;)
Is this SIX Roads to Texas now??
(I’ve given a less than 4 star rating maybe 3 times in 5 years. It’s painful to do so, as I know writers work so hard.)
I LOVE the FRTT series. Every character- even those I don’t like, and each storyline, is so phenomenal that it’s impossible to not get completely lost within the FRTT world. I anxiously await each new addition to the series.
With that said .... where the heck did these people come from in “Convergence “?!? Is it now “Six Roads to Texas”? I definitely didn’t expect this deviation from the - seemingly - main point or structure of the series. Personally, I’d MUCH rather pick up the tale of one of the existing characters, rather than some new people straight out of the blue.
Now, the new characters. And story. To sum it all up — Meh.
The character development was partially solid, I enjoyed that. For the two primary characters it was great. Unfortunately, a third character emerges from a secondary role to a primary one, with basically zero character development to be had. So we’re eventually left with a cardboard cutout of a character, all we know about this person is a smattering of ageism based stereotypes. That’s pretty boring.
Beyond the characters themselves, there wasn’t much ooomph to the story. Extremely difficult to become, and remain, lost in the pages of the book. Zero intrigue, minimal suspense, random occurrences that fit like square pegs in the round holes of the story, and dull, lackluster scenes in desperate need of detail.
The main mode of transportation is unique to the genre, in general. I actually feel it should be utilized more often as it has the potential to be really interesting in it’s novelty. Here it was more like a backdrop. Like — far in the distance backdrop. I suspect the author doesn’t have much (any?) knowledge in this area, and certainly did not do any research, which could explain the lack of life, details, and shine in this area of transport. A total miss here.
A sudden “change up” with one of the primary characters tanked the rest of the story. With that event, went dialogue. Which wasn’t all that enthralling to begin with, but at least it was there, carrying the story along.
I suppose some would characterize this book as “dark.” Dreary may be a better term.
The part of the story which held the most potential for tense emotions, adventure, and engagement - well, I guess it’s going to happen in the next book? As unfortunately this one ended right at that point.
Finally, if you are going to write a book with only a very few characters (pretty much 3 & 1/2 in this case, but it varies to less at times), the story has to be incredibly well done. The world you build becomes extremely important- it needs to be more than just ... there; a careless backdrop. And, naturally, the characters must sing. Even a book about one man on a deserted island can be enthralling. So, “Convergence,” is a missed opportunity, sadly.
I also just noticed the title doesn’t include the name of a primary FRTT character. Or one of the new characters we meet within “Convergence.” Such as, “Ian’s Road” or “Sidney’s Way.” This is another example of the problems with the characters and overall story — who and what the heck is this book about anyway??
(Additional thought - if this book was as fantastic as the others in the series, I don’t think I’d be so critical of new characters being introduced so randomly. The phenomenal reading experience would simply have me excited about welcoming the new storyline into the FRTT fold.)
Soooo........ if you’re a FRTT fan, go ahead, read this book. As it is part of the series, so you may as well. And these characters and/or storyline may somehow end up intersecting with the original FRTT storylines and characters at some point. You don’t want to be left behind. ;)
April 4, 2019
Disclaimer.
I had requested and received audible version of this book for free from the narrator, in exchange for an unbiased review.
What I liked about the book -
I haven't read previous books of this series. But that didn't take away anything from this fourth book of the series. As the book's synopsis indicates, this book's story is like a new addition to the "Five Roads to Texas" universe. Like a spin-off tv series.
The entire story arc has a very "human" feel. The struggle of the survivors and their journey through the country to a "promised land" of sorts.. their hopes and failures.. all of that keeps the story very raw and emotional. Apocalypse survival stories are dime a dozen. But books that can capture readers' attention and keep them interested are rare. This book is one of those.
What I disliked about the book -
Nothing specific that I can think of.
Narration -
Andrew B. Wehrlen is a brand at this point. Nothing he narrates can ever have a bad narration.
I had requested and received audible version of this book for free from the narrator, in exchange for an unbiased review.
What I liked about the book -
I haven't read previous books of this series. But that didn't take away anything from this fourth book of the series. As the book's synopsis indicates, this book's story is like a new addition to the "Five Roads to Texas" universe. Like a spin-off tv series.
The entire story arc has a very "human" feel. The struggle of the survivors and their journey through the country to a "promised land" of sorts.. their hopes and failures.. all of that keeps the story very raw and emotional. Apocalypse survival stories are dime a dozen. But books that can capture readers' attention and keep them interested are rare. This book is one of those.
What I disliked about the book -
Nothing specific that I can think of.
Narration -
Andrew B. Wehrlen is a brand at this point. Nothing he narrates can ever have a bad narration.
February 7, 2019
Malcom Barnett has lost everything he held dear to a virus that has decimated mankind. Without his family, he feels that he has nothing to live for. That is until he meets up with Tessa and her children while they’re trying to escape Cincinnati for Texas.
Powers’ novel, Convergence: The Far Side of Hell, is book four in the Five Roads to Texas series. It introduces us to characters not in the original story. It is a gripping tale with good character development. There is almost nonstop action with a few twists along the way. Emotions run high for both the characters and the reader.
At first, I was upset that this book did not follow some of the characters from the first book. But, once I got into the story I was hooked and forgot all about that. Hopefully, their story will continue in future novels.
5 out of 5 stars.
Powers’ novel, Convergence: The Far Side of Hell, is book four in the Five Roads to Texas series. It introduces us to characters not in the original story. It is a gripping tale with good character development. There is almost nonstop action with a few twists along the way. Emotions run high for both the characters and the reader.
At first, I was upset that this book did not follow some of the characters from the first book. But, once I got into the story I was hooked and forgot all about that. Hopefully, their story will continue in future novels.
5 out of 5 stars.
January 28, 2019
Thoroughly enjoyed this addition to five roads.
I chose 5 stars because, the author, and story straight up deserve it.
I can't wait to see where these characters take me. So far this story has started out how I suppose any of us normal folks would react in a situation such as Tess, and Malcolm's. From loss to hope to even more loss. Fears of an unknown refuge. This story, and characters drag you in white knuckled at times wondering ffs what's next?? I love the ability A.J. has to keep his readers on the edge of their seat. I would suggest this to anyone. Be sure to read all the stories in the five roads to Texas collection. Such talented authors I feel like five stars isn't enough. Ps.. A.J I'm ready for more so I hope you're writing away. Cheers!
I chose 5 stars because, the author, and story straight up deserve it.
I can't wait to see where these characters take me. So far this story has started out how I suppose any of us normal folks would react in a situation such as Tess, and Malcolm's. From loss to hope to even more loss. Fears of an unknown refuge. This story, and characters drag you in white knuckled at times wondering ffs what's next?? I love the ability A.J. has to keep his readers on the edge of their seat. I would suggest this to anyone. Be sure to read all the stories in the five roads to Texas collection. Such talented authors I feel like five stars isn't enough. Ps.. A.J I'm ready for more so I hope you're writing away. Cheers!
December 25, 2018
Powerful read
In this story we find our protagonist wishing for some quiet time alone and little does he know that he will soon get more than he wished for. I hate people who give away the story so let’s just say I found this book well written and with a very well thought out story line and well developed characters. Read the authors notes about his story if you need to know about the story, there’s enough there to get anyone interested if you enjoy Apocalyptic stories. This is my first book by Mr Powers and I totally enjoyed it, so much so that I’m going to purchase a couple more to read right away. I rate this Five stars and I highly recommend this book.
In this story we find our protagonist wishing for some quiet time alone and little does he know that he will soon get more than he wished for. I hate people who give away the story so let’s just say I found this book well written and with a very well thought out story line and well developed characters. Read the authors notes about his story if you need to know about the story, there’s enough there to get anyone interested if you enjoy Apocalyptic stories. This is my first book by Mr Powers and I totally enjoyed it, so much so that I’m going to purchase a couple more to read right away. I rate this Five stars and I highly recommend this book.
April 21, 2019
We didn’t see or hear from the other characters from the series in this book. It definitely stands alone. Great story of commitment and survival in a zombie future. Wish I could remember if Malcolm’s family are mentioned in any of the other books. I’m sure everyone will come together at some point so I will start book 5 now. Then on to Sidney’s story and I am really looking forward to that one. She been my favorite character so far.
Andrew is, as always a top notch excellent narrator. One of my favorites!
I was voluntarily provided this review copy at no charge by the author, publisher and or narrator.
Andrew is, as always a top notch excellent narrator. One of my favorites!
I was voluntarily provided this review copy at no charge by the author, publisher and or narrator.
March 10, 2019
Our protagonist Malcom has suffered enough guilt and pain. He leaves his empty home one last time seeking revenge for the loss of his wife and children to the infected. Elsewhere, mother and successful surgeon Tessa along with her children, pack their bags to leave the city of Cincinnati and avoid the infected. Paths cross, and we follow the survivors as they struggle cross-country to reach rumored safety in El Paso. Good story, great characters. This audiobook was given by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review via Audiobook Boom.
October 2, 2024
El Paso the survivor crucible
I really have trouble remembering to read the next book in this series I’ve had book waiting on my kindle for years but kept getting distracted has I knew this book diverged from the first 3 books. I wasn’t sure I could take more new chacthers but the story was a heart rencher.
I wasn’t sure totally broken with each death really didn’t expect for the full drama package for this an then we get crazy ending that forces me to steady my reader they’ll I knew how it how ended.
I really have trouble remembering to read the next book in this series I’ve had book waiting on my kindle for years but kept getting distracted has I knew this book diverged from the first 3 books. I wasn’t sure I could take more new chacthers but the story was a heart rencher.
I wasn’t sure totally broken with each death really didn’t expect for the full drama package for this an then we get crazy ending that forces me to steady my reader they’ll I knew how it how ended.
December 27, 2018
A Must Read
This is a continuation of the collaborative book Five Roads To Texas. Mr. Powers brings you on a roller coaster ride in his ability to weave a story that is packed from beginning to end. His wonderful character's will leave a lasting impression. If you like apocalyptic stories look no further. I can't wait for more.
This is a continuation of the collaborative book Five Roads To Texas. Mr. Powers brings you on a roller coaster ride in his ability to weave a story that is packed from beginning to end. His wonderful character's will leave a lasting impression. If you like apocalyptic stories look no further. I can't wait for more.
April 9, 2019
Audible:I always love visiting our friends in this series! Malcom ends up with a pre made family to care for while he struggles with losing his own as well as fighting the afflicted. Andrew B Wehrlen was ,again a fine narrator.
I was given this book by the narrator,author or publisher free for an honest review
I was given this book by the narrator,author or publisher free for an honest review
December 21, 2019
Thanks for the roller coaster ride
I just finished Far Side of Hell, and I am still kind of reeling from the emotional abuse I just lived though with the characters. The apocalypse is not going to be a fun time, less so in a zombie Apoc, but damn AJ...
Well written and really engaging. I look forward to more.
I just finished Far Side of Hell, and I am still kind of reeling from the emotional abuse I just lived though with the characters. The apocalypse is not going to be a fun time, less so in a zombie Apoc, but damn AJ...
Well written and really engaging. I look forward to more.
January 5, 2019
Another winner!!!
Another great installment in the 5 Roads series! New characters, new story that goes balls to the walls! I loved it, and I love these authors more with each new book.
Another great installment in the 5 Roads series! New characters, new story that goes balls to the walls! I loved it, and I love these authors more with each new book.
January 30, 2019
Loved it!
Warning: Don't start this book late at night if you want some sleep, because you won't want to put it down. Full of pulse pounding action and heart ache, with great characters. Definitely a winner!
Warning: Don't start this book late at night if you want some sleep, because you won't want to put it down. Full of pulse pounding action and heart ache, with great characters. Definitely a winner!
February 17, 2019
Very good story
Interesting new characters that I enjoyed reading about. Naomi has turned into a badass who needs to learn more about surviving in a horribly changed world. They are lucky to have found Malcolm & convince him to travel with them.
Interesting new characters that I enjoyed reading about. Naomi has turned into a badass who needs to learn more about surviving in a horribly changed world. They are lucky to have found Malcolm & convince him to travel with them.
December 26, 2018
Awesome
An incredible addition to the Five Roads to Texas saga probably my favorite so far. Keep up the excellent work Mr. Powers
An incredible addition to the Five Roads to Texas saga probably my favorite so far. Keep up the excellent work Mr. Powers
December 29, 2018
Great continuation of the series
Great new characters and challenges for the five roads to Texas series. Can't wait for the next one. Phallax does it again
Great new characters and challenges for the five roads to Texas series. Can't wait for the next one. Phallax does it again
March 24, 2020
Great series
I am really enjoying this series! If you like Zombie Apocalypse then you need to read this series! Can't wait to start the next book!
I am really enjoying this series! If you like Zombie Apocalypse then you need to read this series! Can't wait to start the next book!
March 14, 2022
I did appreciate that finally a child had a character and wasn’t just window dressing.
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews