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The Borrowed World #7

The Ungovernable

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Boss is back.The supervillain of Book Six, Switched On, is staging a comeback and he's obsessed with revenge. He had no idea who the men were that attacked the power plant, but he lost a hand in that operation and he's not going to be satisfied until heads roll. He's all prepared to a launch a massive search for them until command makes it clear that his personal mission of vengeance is not a priority.Undeterred, Boss arrives at a covert method of engaging the entire population of southwest Virginia in his hunt for the insurgents. He scatters flyers from the air offering a reward of food and ammunition for the live capture of the man whose image was caught by a security camera. The rumor mill is working against Jim Powell. His name is whispered everywhere that people gather. Almost overnight, he and his friends find themselves under attack from desperate neighbors determined to collect the bounty on his head.

308 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 9, 2019

782 people are currently reading
132 people want to read

About the author

Franklin Horton

67 books362 followers
Franklin Horton lives and writes in the mountains of southwestern Virginia. He attended Virginia Intermont College and Virginia Commonwealth University. In his spare time he pursues outdoor adventures with his wife and two children. His interests include camping, kayaking, backpacking, mountain biking, and shooting.

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5 stars
1,057 (63%)
4 stars
472 (28%)
3 stars
123 (7%)
2 stars
15 (<1%)
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4 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
Profile Image for Rain.
2,558 reviews21 followers
October 4, 2024
*3.25* Enjoyed reading about my favorite cast of characters, but this was certainly a low point in the series. A majority of the valley people hate Jim for what he did in the previous book and are out to get him.

“These people won’t give up. They’re just going to keep coming.”

Post apocalyptic America
Nonstop action
Violence/gore
Excellent side characters

The bad guy is a formidable opponent, and I was sick of reading chapters about him.

Appreciated some of the women kicking ass, there’s nothing like a mom protecting her children.

Post apocalyptic stories are entertaining because they break down the veneer of society. While this series is highly entertaining, the focus is on battle, not character relationships. What’s missing here is the day-to-day communication, chores, and relationships. This is very much a plot driven series, one battle to the next.
Profile Image for Robert Chapman.
501 reviews54 followers
November 16, 2019
This is the 7th book in The Borrowed World series. I have a special attachment to this series as it was the first series I listened to when I started with audio books on Audible. The story gripped me from book 1 and I have been eagerly awaiting each new installment.

What I liked most about this latest addition to the story was the character build up of both Jim and the villain Boss.

I'm really hoping that the next book focuses more on the new "government" and it's desire to trade freedom for life.

If you have not started this series yet then you are behind and need to catch-up!
1,477 reviews25 followers
July 22, 2020
The Ungovernable Franklin Horton

Series finale . Jim and his group of survivors are making a last stand. The people in town blame Him for their hardships and when a bounty is out on him with false promises groups of townspeople come hunting for him. The government has their own agenda which primarily serves their needs as they see fit. Jim and his followers survive by taking his death. This as well as the entire series are excellent reads. My highest recommendation.
Profile Image for Daniel Lewis.
480 reviews3 followers
September 27, 2022
While much of this was good I thought how it finished was unrealistic beyond the normal suspension of disbelief in these books. I really do not want to spoil it for anyone so I wont say why but you should also know I will still read the next book in the series.
Profile Image for Pam Shelton-Anderson.
1,948 reviews66 followers
August 26, 2021
I have enjoyed this series a lot up to this point, but found this book to be a let-down. There was a major editing error when a group from the valley go to town to see if they can trade some goods. Sara was part of that group and it was said she "was doing a lot better after Randi gave her some tough love, basically telling her to snap out of it or crawl off to die somewhere." Nope! In a previous volume, it was Charlotte, Gary's daughter who lost her husband Dave and went into a debilitating depression prompting Randi's harsh but effective comment. Sara was also Gary's daughter and was married to Will. I was sorry to see that Boss survived and even sorrier how much time was spent on his planning, his prosthetic and everything that he did to seek revenge. I was mostly sorry that Jim has been completely boxed in by the story to have become a pariah. He wasn't alone on the escapade to stop the group that murdered the people at the substation and eliminate the threat posed by the power plant which did not have any wellbeing of the inhabitants of the area in mind. That part of the story is not even mentioned again, though the murdered people were friends and neighbors of the town and of Kyle the lone survivor. The town is mad at Jim who is mad that they don't see that the desire for electricity and suspension of some freedom is a socialist trap (SIGH). Jim was such a central character, willing to work hard and do what was necessary to save his family and tribe, but I don't know where he can go from here. I am starting to wish that I had stopped with book 6.
Profile Image for Linda.
749 reviews18 followers
January 3, 2023
Thought-provoking and upsetting....

Which is why this thing is so damn perfect. The conflict was real, not just within the story but in my own head. What price is worth comfort? And should people ever be okay with paying it, even if it means their only means of self-preservation or their very freedom? Who's right? Who's wrong? And who decides which is the best choice? I mean, it's great, great stuff to ponder. Even despite my complaints (of which I had a few), there was simply too much this book got right for me to rate it any lower than 5-stars. It's brutal. It's violent. It's shocking. It's even got some very crucial moments of levity to balance it all out.

Things pick up exactly where they left off. Jim and company are left dealing with the aftermath of the power plant's destruction in the previous entry, including handling a rather disgruntled county of citizens (both in and OUT of his valley) who don't like having the choice of power stripped from them. As if that isn't bad enough, we've also got the survival of newly established villain called "Boss" to contend with. I just KNEW that little pissant would be back after the mayhem of the last book. Boss shares the narrative load along with various members of Jim's tribe, so of course we are privy to his various dealings behind the scenes to exact his revenge. The dude is legit TROUBLE, and you already know it going in.

I did have one significant complaint, and it's one that's been present throughout the series: It's quite irksome that author Franklin Horton is STILL shying away from expanding his characters in more intimate manners, ESPECIALLY when that very idea is acknowledged within the story itself. I can think of two separate occasions that called for "quieter" one-on-one interactions that could have really humanized people, but they were blatantly skipped over for yet even more hustling and bustling. To me, continuing to squander such crucial moments like these can really harm character development and/or likability. Sometimes, it's not enough just to have a character narratively talk about their inner turmoil. Let me witness them share their vulnerabilities with each other. Don’t just tell me. SHOW me. Build-ups without payoffs SUCK.

Still, it feels almost pointless to complain about anything, at least this go around, since I still ended up loving this entry anyway. There were plenty of shocking moments and even some unexpected tragedy, events that disturbed and upset me to the core. It's amazing how far gone this little corner in the country has gone in the collapse. And now, given the way this thing ended, I dunno what's to happen next. But I'm so ready for it.

Click here for my rather frequent commentary.
Profile Image for Cherye Elliott.
3,397 reviews24 followers
November 10, 2019
EXCELLENT

The premise to this series can best be described by Jim. ".........this is about a bigger question. It’s about the future of the country and how it survives. It's about what kind of country we’re going to have when we get back on our feet again. After two hundred years of freedom, we could lose it all in a three to five year disaster. I don’t want to see that."

I love reading a book that peaks my interest and makes me want to Google to learn more. Technology changes hourly and the best way to keep up is through reading books and researching on the side. This author keeps my interest in his writings because not only am I entertained but I am learning. Case in point... “'I don’t give a damn if you’re Chesty Puller himself. I don’t take orders from you.” This guy was playing the Chesty Puller card?'-----I heard about this General before but had to Google to get the particulars . (He was known for saying "Son, when the Marine Corps wants to have a wife, you will be issued one." ) Another....This sounds strange but his prosthesis description and accessories was perfect for Boss (unfortunately). They did it with 3D printing. I won't mention the cow head.

Yes Team Charlotte! She was awesome. You will have to read the book on the particulars. No spoilers here. Actually all of the women in Jim's life stepped forward and kicked ass. Hated to see this part of the story end. I spent the whole day listening to Jim's adventure.
By now you know I really liked this book. Five Stars+++++

Memorable sayings:
The girl led him to an overweight bearded man at a wraparound workstation. He had multiple lanyards and ID cards hanging around his neck. Nerd bling.

"So, be on the lookout for old hoes?” Randi asked with a smirk.

I love Lloyd. "I’m sure you were probably stretched out on a hammock somewhere, taking a leisurely nap. Maybe you were out there dipping your lily while I was in a life or death struggle for the fate of this valley.”

Profile Image for Shawn Fahy.
176 reviews2 followers
August 31, 2024
I finished “The Ungovernable” by Franklin Horton (2019), book 7 in the “Borrowed World” series. The forces that were trying to turn the power back on are now really mad that their plans were foiled in the last book and one particularly scary government mercenary decides to make it personal. He offers a reward for the capture of Jim and spreads word of it throughout the region, creating a small army of locals that are willing to attack Jim and his tribe, wherever they may be. The locals are also motivated by revenge for the restoration of power being delayed; this brings to mind the admonitions to guerrillas to weigh the damage done to the local populace (upon which the guerrilla depends) against the damage done to the enemy force that a friend of mine (former SF) used to talk about.

This book keeps up the suspense and action that the rest of the series is known for. While the main bad guy is a bit cartoonish in several ways, Horton uses chapters that are written from his perspective to give the reader a bit of an idea of what’s going on behind the scenes in at least one part of the government.

The climax of the book is a pretty elaborate plan on the part of the main characters and veers a bit toward the realm of Hollywood, but it was still interesting and fun. I plan to keep reading the series.
Profile Image for Dan.
3,547 reviews600 followers
July 9, 2025
Boss, aka Captain Ballou, 43. After the emergency airlift, flashes to two months after the power plant incident.

Rumors aplenty. The townsfolk—and others—are not pleased with Jim Powell.

At times, heavy on Boss’s POV—but this works. It gives us an insight to the larger world. What’s going on as far as TPTB…and what’s not.

The gauntlets. 😳 😱

Shootout at the marketplace.

Boss’s insidious plan. The flyers…

The evils of socialism.

The Wimmers. Fred. The maps.

Jim is very focused and mildly sociopathic. Excellent work on his overall psychology—specifically his ASPD—and Jim managing his emotions.

The solitary, misanthropic loner—thrust into a serious leadership position.

Jim is more prickly than ever. He is such a fellow relatable asshole. Love it.

The tribe—an awesome, motley crew of families and found family / friends.

Tense AF. The action scenes do not disappoint. High octane, packed with adrenaline.

Snakes in the grass. 🐍 Abduction.

Fourth of July deadline.

Operation. Football field. 🏈

WOW. The final showdown… 💥 🚁 🤩

Very solid ending to a dark, realistic, pulse-pounding adventure of a novel.
Profile Image for Chessy The Cat.
340 reviews28 followers
May 26, 2020
Jim Powell wants to get as many crops in the ground as possible to help him, his family, and his friends make it through the next winter. Boss, aka Captain Ballou, has other plans for Jim. After losing his hand and all his team during the attack at the power plant, he has nothing but revenge on his mind. Now, Jim is a wanted man.

Horton’s seventh novel in The Borrowed World Series, The Ungovernable keeps those in the valley with Jim on their toes as folks from town and neighboring communities attempt to collect the reward for bringing Jim to Boss. Boss is relentless in his pursuit even though he has been ordered to stand down. He covertly gains assistance from those around him. His rage is palatable.

Many in town feel anger toward Jim for taking the opportunity for electricity from them. So when Boss’s flyers show up with Jim’s photo, they are more than happy to try and turn him in. There is more than one trick up Jim’s sleeve. And, things aren’t as they seem.

5 out of 5 stars.
Profile Image for James Maxon.
Author 9 books44 followers
July 9, 2020
Yes! This story came back with a bang. The last book had me a little worried towards the end, but book 7 pulled me back in. I’ll admit I was a bit worried in the beginning when so much of the story centered around Boss (the antagonist from book 6), but those scenes were used to build up to the latter part. Once we spend more time with Jim and his crew, I felt fully emerged into the world again. There’s a scene so riveting that I felt my own fists tighten as a mother goes all out to protect her child. Chilling, yet captivating and powerful. The ending of the book was satisfying and not filled with too much info-dumping and narrative. Had just the right touch and human element and closure. The Borrowed World as a series doesn’t feel like it’s ready to come to a close, yet. So, if Franklin Horton publishes an 8th book, I’ll definitely be adding it to my list of must-reads.
Profile Image for Mark.
424 reviews2 followers
March 30, 2020
I'm torn on this one. I've loved the series and it's great to catch up on what's happening with everyone, but..

I don't know. The antagonist, Boss, almost feels more sympathetic than the protagonist. He even kills less people than Jim does. The other characters that have been featured in the past are treated as secondary (or tertiary) characters this time. Most of the book consists of Jim's self-doubts, introspection, and reflections on his errors. I can almost agree with the sheriff's sentiments.

All of that tempts me to give a lower score but it's almost too well written for me to do that. Maybe a 3 1/2 would be warranted, though. Hopefully the next chapter will live up to the bar set so highly by the previous books.
Profile Image for Rachael Ashak-Benson.
358 reviews20 followers
November 8, 2022
“Captain ….. Hook?…”

(That’s the 2nd funniest part/line in the book! Ha! What? You don’t get it?? Hmmm…. That’s odd …. I thought it was hilarious!! ;)
Ohhhh! Mr. Horton - the ending of this one!
Overall, this next chapter in the on-going story of Jim & Co. (& the Mad Mick & Team right over the hill, of course!) is absolutely fantastic. The concluding couple of chapters however, just elevate the entire book!
Also, it’s an extremely rare treat to read work by an author who is a master of the, “surprising twist & turn,” within the apocalyptic genre, & this author is an absolute pro.
The Borrowed World Series is one of Horton’s very best.
On my Top 10 Favorites list for sure!
24 reviews
October 25, 2023
Great Read but Not a Happy One!

There's not too much to be happy about when TEOWAWKI happens. Some novels make it sound like fun to be ready to shoot bad people and blow things up. This isn't one of them. The main characters in the story are now well developed and are people with all the same flaws we see in ourselves, family and friends. I like the realism this provides. They are people we can cheer for and occasionally hate. I am never bored with the story and have thoroughly enjoyed the last six books, and looking forward to the next. I like that the characters are often learning more about the world and themselves as they manage to survive. The story reminds me to be thankful every day for the simple conveniences and security we enjoy in our everyday life.
Profile Image for D. Jackson.
109 reviews
February 3, 2021
Jim and his tribe

Unlike other SHTF reads, this was a lot of what I envisioned with people willing to do anything to get by. In this case, Jim was tough as nutz and justice as hard headed. I was told that you don’t let a man live only to have to kill him later. If you like those types of stories - this is the series for you.

My favorite character was Hugh although not much was know about him. I suspect CIA or something along those lines. I hope we find out how Jim’s tribe made out - another book though would be hard to follow up. Good read!
Profile Image for Dennis Reynolds.
85 reviews
November 12, 2019
Loved it !

The "end" of this series was great ! I love Franklin Horton's work and this book was a great ending to this particular series. "The Borrowed World" was great reading from book 1 and kept getting better as it progressed through book 7. Jim and his group of survivors in the valley truly portray what I would imagine a real group of "hillbillies" would do in the event of TEOTWAWKI. Keep up the great writing Mr Horton !
201 reviews3 followers
November 12, 2019
The Ungovernable keeps this series at the top!

Franklin Horton has held me captivated with the Borrowed World series from the beginning, the series getting better with each book. The Ungovernable continues that excellence. Vicariously experiencing the trials and tribulations of the characters makes me more aware of possible post apocalyptic futures.
Profile Image for Alisa.
475 reviews6 followers
December 12, 2019
Great job

Well written and great ending to the story. The one thing that bugs me is logical but probably how things would be in this situation. The town's people and so angry over everything the valley people did, but they would have never given up their weapons either, why can't they see that? (Its a rhetorical question. )
19 reviews1 follower
December 31, 2019
Ungovernable: Getting even better

Horton’s writing and plotting continue to improve and the story has a great, brisk pace. If you’ve liked any of his prior books you will enjoy this one. Not as much detail on the survivalist details but also more supporting detail and emphasis on character motivations. Buy it, you will not regret it !!
630 reviews2 followers
May 9, 2020
More please

I wonder what our enemies are doing while America is recovering? I think a story about the Wimmers would be interesting. Let Jim rest a bit and enjoy some peace. I hope another story is planned in The Borrowed World Series. What if while things are so bad the Chinese sent us another virus? I know, I shouldn’t say such things. Love this author. So interesting.
Profile Image for David A..
812 reviews
May 16, 2021
I cannot believe how much I am enjoying this series. I have now read books #4, #5, #6 and #7 in a row. I do not remember ever doing that before. Usually after a couple of books in a series I need a change of pace. I am now off to book #8 of this series. I hope that Franklin Horton is working on a book #9.
147 reviews2 followers
September 5, 2021
Family and friends struggle continues

Much to Jim's horror, the killing continues, and changes him, striping the veneers of civilization from him. He hardly recognizes the person he's become, but understand why. Can he ever come back and be the person he was? Either way, his family is worth the price.
183 reviews2 followers
June 15, 2022
Masterfully written

actions have consequences and even the fall of the.World wouldn't change that . Once again Franklin Horton uses prepping tips and just plain great writing to continue the tale of just what might happen after the fan gets hit .
Jim's life and the life's of everyone in the valley will once again keep you turning page after page
Profile Image for Charlene.
680 reviews6 followers
November 11, 2019
Great

Another great book by Franklin Horton. I loved hearing about all the characters from this series. I would recommend this book. I listened on audiobook and Kevin Pierce is a great narrator.
16 reviews
December 4, 2019
Excellent series, excellent addition

Book seven is awesome. Franklin Horton's characters, both good guys and bad guys pull you in. He has created a story that stays fresh throughout with twists and turns like no other!
6 reviews1 follower
December 13, 2019
Another awesome book

It kelp me glued to the the story and not wanting to put the book down. The book series is one of my favorite series and you become caring for the characters. Can't wait for the next book by Mr Horton.
238 reviews
December 18, 2019
Favorite series

This is a well written story with strong characters. I have enjoyed each book. It has good mix of action and some useful information. I am particularly fond of this series cause it happens in my home state.
284 reviews1 follower
September 9, 2020
Ungovernable

The author drags the characters through a gauntlet of terrible trials. Will Jim escape, or will revenge be exacted? Time will tell... Drama builds- will there be more killing?


Profile Image for Angie Anderson.
584 reviews7 followers
August 7, 2022
Another good one!

Book seven amps it up a notch from the previous books in the series.
Franklin Horton is one of the best in the genre. He can take normal men and women and show the progression of their thoughts as they must change to adapt to the borrowed world.
Profile Image for Mary Hayes.
13 reviews2 followers
December 10, 2022
Do they ever catch a break??

I thought that finally they would catch a break. But not really. Great next in line book for the series. Not sure how much further that he can take this. Really hoping that the ending is spectacular enough for all these books!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews

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