Recommended by US Review of Books, Storm Warning is a continuation of the Pinnacle Award winning Davenport series. In this book, the Rickter Plague has descended onto the world, wiping out populations across the globe. Civilizations are no more. Some people are naturally immune. Most are not. A serum is on every survivors mind. But without laws or the ability to enforce them, the lawless have also descended onto the world. Some have even planned for it. Before unleashing the plague, Stan Rickter had purchased several properties—outposts—all across the United States. These staging areas, like the abandoned Roosevelt Island Smallpox Hospital in New York State and the Seaside Sanatorium on the Connecticut coast, would be the starting points for a new world controlled by his extremists. Guided by a manifesto, and with the dollar value all but decimated, these rebels have established trade markets. Nothing is off limits. As their growth grows, they continue to acquire more resources and properties. One, though, they don’t have, but very much want. The grow fields—once controlled by the New York Syndicate for decades and hidden in the rugged Debar Mountain range—has produced billions in revenue in growing illegal drugs over that span. It would also be a key piece of revenue in the future, given the state of the world and its lack of replenishable medicines. Maria Kaylor knows this too. The sixteen year old is in charge of the grow fields, her knowledge of growing the illicit drugs unmatched, and her clever mind, unprecedented. To acquire the coveted property, Mel Belegore, one of Rickter’s extremist’s, will do anything, including kill, to get what he wants. A battle Maria and her ragtag group against a powerful juggernaut with extensive resources, including men, guns, ammunition, and even helicopters. This will bring Tom Spears, her father, an assassin known as the Shadow, out of retirement to find her. He has one goal and cares little about who gets in his way.
• Author - Brett Diffley • Born in Anchorage, Alaska • Raised in Tri-Cities, Washington • Attended Finley High School • Living in Big Timber, Montana
Adventure lurks in the soul of each of us to varying degrees, and there are some of us that seek it out, making us better for it. It’s his experiences that give him insights as a writer, and it’s his overwhelming creativity that makes him a great story teller. He’s a fixed-wing pilot, commercial helicopter pilot and flight instructor, and also has been a commercial diver, professional dog trainer for retrievers, self-employed entrepreneur (patented his own line of water toys, and also a wakeboarding trainer-board), commercial crab fisherman in Alaska, and commercial fisherman in several areas.
When civilization collapses, power finds new masters. Storm Warning delivers a gritty, high-stakes continuation of the Davenport series, plunging readers into a post-apocalyptic world ravaged by the Rickter Plague. With governments fallen and law enforcement nonexistent, survival is no longer about rules it’s about resources, alliances, and ruthless ambition. What stood out most is the layered conflict. On one side, extremist factions led by Stan Rickter’s manifesto-driven followers seek to build a controlled new world from strategically positioned outposts like the abandoned Roosevelt Island Smallpox Hospital and the Seaside Sanatorium. On the other, sixteen-year-old Maria Kaylor commands the hidden grow fields in the Debar Mountain range a critical source of revenue and medicine in a world stripped of infrastructure. Maria is a compelling young leader—intelligent, resourceful, and fierce under pressure. The looming threat of Mel Belegore and his heavily armed forces adds relentless tension, especially as Tom Spears, the deadly assassin known as the Shadow, re-emerges with a singular mission: protect his daughter at any cost.
Fast-paced, action-driven, and filled with shifting power dynamics, Storm Warning is a survival thriller that explores what rises from the ashes when systems fail and ambition remains.
"Storm Warning" by Brett Diffley is a gripping tale of survival, rebellion, and resilience set against a backdrop of societal collapse. The story follows Stan Rickter's extremists, who establish trade markets amidst a decimated economy, continuously acquiring resources and properties to control a new world order.
Central to the plot are the coveted grow fields in the rugged Debar Mountain range. Previously controlled by the New York Syndicate, these fields have generated billions through illegal drug cultivation and promise to be a crucial revenue source in a world devoid of medicines.
Sixteen-year-old Maria Kaylor, with her unmatched expertise in growing illicit drugs, fiercely protects these fields. Her intelligence and determination make her a formidable guardian. A standout scene is when Jack and his team infiltrate the Sanatorium's tunnel entrance, guided by James's vital information. Silently eliminating guards and proceeding cautiously into the eerie darkness, this high-stakes sequence showcases Diffley's skill in creating suspenseful, edge-of-your-seat action.
"Storm Warning" is a testament to Diffley's ability to craft a compelling, action-packed story with complex characters and relentless tension.
"Storm Warning" by Brett Diffley is a riveting dystopian thriller that masterfully blends elements of mystery, crime, and action. The novel follows the intense journey of sixteen-year-old Maria Kaylor as she fights to protect the illicit grow fields in the Debar Mountain range from extremist forces. The plot is fast-paced and filled with unexpected twists, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. The character development, especially that of Maria and her father, Tom Spears, is deeply engaging. Diffley's portrayal of a world plunged into chaos and lawlessness is both vivid and terrifying, making this book a must-read for fans of the genre.
After a long hiatus from reading full-length novels, Brett Diffley’s "Storm Warning" was the perfect remedy for my reader’s block. The intricate plot, rich character arcs, and relentless pace made it impossible to put down. Every chapter is packed with tension and excitement, with each twist more unexpected than the last. Despite its length, I found myself wishing the story could continue, a testament to Diffley’s skill in creating a truly immersive experience. This book isn’t just a read—it’s a thrilling adventure that you’ll be sad to see come to an end. Highly recommended!
"Storm Warning" is an action-packed thriller that doesn't hold back. Brett Diffley expertly weaves together a story of survival and resistance in a world where extremists rule with an iron fist. The character of Maria Kaylor is a standout, embodying strength and resilience as she battles to protect the growing fields. Her father, Tom Spears, known as the Shadow, adds a gritty and determined edge to the story. The book is filled with intense action sequences, strategic confrontations, and a relentless pace that will keep readers hooked from start to finish. It's a perfect read for those who love high-stakes thrillers.
This novel brilliantly captures the real-world destruction and mayhem created by extremist groups, offering a vivid and gripping narrative that draws readers in. The tribulations faced by the weak are depicted with raw honesty, creating a hooking tale that is as enlightening as it is thrilling. "Storm Warning" is an outright awesome novel, seamlessly blending action with poignant social commentary. It's inarguably perfect for everyone who enjoys a well-crafted, intense, and thought-provoking read.
"Storm Warning" by Brett Diffley is a thrilling story of survival and resistance in a post-apocalyptic world. The plot centers on extremist Mel Belegore, a follower of Stan Rickter, who is determined to seize the lucrative grow fields in the rugged Debar Mountain range. These fields, previously controlled by the New York Syndicate, are now protected by sixteen-year-old Maria Kaylor.
Maria, with her unmatched expertise in growing illicit drugs, becomes a formidable opponent. Her determination and intelligence make her a key figure in the battle for control. Belegore, willing to use violence, deploys extensive resources, including men, guns, ammunition, and helicopters, to take the fields.
Maria and her ragtag group of defenders prepare to face Belegore's powerful forces in a fierce and gripping battle. "Storm Warning" is a testament to Diffley's ability to craft an action-packed narrative filled with tension, complex characters, and high-stakes conflict. This novel keeps readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish.
In "Storm Warning," Brett Diffley delivers an enthralling dystopian saga where the world has been devastated by the Rickter Plague, leaving civilization in ruins. In this lawless landscape, sixteen-year-old Maria Kaylor must navigate a treacherous new reality. Her battle to protect her family's lucrative grow fields from extremist forces led by the ruthless Mel Belegore is both intense and suspenseful. Diffley's vivid depiction of a post-apocalyptic world and his intricate, well-crafted plot make this novel a standout in the genre.
The realistic dialogue and lifelike characters draw readers in, making it easy to empathize with their struggles and triumphs. The constant conflict and high stakes keep the pages turning, creating an immersive reading experience. "Storm Warning" was one of the most enjoyable books I’ve ever read, thanks to its compelling narrative and rich character development. I can't thank the author enough for bringing this masterpiece to life. This is a must-read for fans of dystopian fiction and action-packed thrillers.
In "Storm Warning" by Brett Diffley, Maria Kaylor's journey through grief is poignantly portrayed. Hesitant to read a letter from the recently deceased Jack, Maria's emotional struggle is palpable. This letter symbolizes a significant moment, marking her process of coming to terms with her loss. Diffley masterfully depicts Maria's grief and gradual acceptance. The act of refolding the letter and joining a community game signifies her forward movement and healing.
The book's massive breadth encompasses highs and lows, from tragedy to triumph, and despair to poignant resolution, all set against a backdrop of struggle. This deeply emotional narrative, combined with vivid storytelling, makes "Storm Warning" a standout in dystopian fiction. Diffley's ability to capture the nuances of grief and resilience adds depth and authenticity to this compelling tale. Highly recommended for fans of heartfelt, action-packed stories.
Brett Diffley's "Storm Warning" is a masterpiece of dystopian fiction. The book's plot, centered around the fight for control over illicit grow fields in a lawless world, is both unique and captivating. Maria Kaylor's journey is inspiring, and her father's emergence from retirement adds a fascinating dynamic. The extremist antagonist, Mel Belegore, is a formidable foe, creating a palpable sense of danger and urgency. Diffley's writing is sharp, and his ability to create a vivid, immersive world is commendable. This book is a standout in the action thriller genre and is highly recommended.
Overall, the intriguing plot succeeds beautifully and becomes an unforgettable page-turner despite its length. Diffley manages to keep readers engaged with every twist and turn, making it hard to put the book down. It's an exhilarating adventure that will stay with you long after you've turned the last page.
In "Storm Warning," Brett Diffley tells a powerful tale of survival and resistance. The dystopian setting is bleak and realistic, immersing readers in a world where the characters' struggles feel genuine and relatable. Maria Kaylor stands out as a formidable protagonist, embodying strength and resilience in the face of overwhelming odds.
To fully appreciate the depth and complexity of the story, it’s best to start with "Perfect Plan." This will provide valuable insight into the characters' backgrounds and the intricate plotlines that weave through the series. By the time you reach "Safe Passage," you'll be deeply invested in the characters and their fates. "Storm Warning" continues the tradition of high-stakes action and masterful storytelling that fans of the Davenport Series have come to expect, delivering a thrilling and engaging read that is hard to put down.
"Storm Warning" by Brett Diffley is a powerful tale of survival and renewal. The story reaches a turning point as the Marines dismantle the Rickter outposts, offering hope to a plague-ravaged world. Scenes of celebration, with laughter and the aroma of barbeque, underscore this hard-won peace. Amidst this backdrop, sixteen-year-old Maria Kaylor's journey is both inspiring and heart-wrenching. She grapples with personal loss while playing a crucial role in her community's recovery. Diffley's vivid descriptions and emotional depth make this a standout in dystopian fiction, capturing both the despair and resilience of humanity in the face of adversity.
I haven’t read a novel like this in a long time, but this one lured me back to the genre. I highly recommend it.
"Storm Warning" delivers a heart-pounding and exhilarating journey that keeps readers constantly engaged. Brett Diffley has masterfully blended dystopian elements, crime, and action into a compelling narrative that is impossible to put down. Maria Kaylor's fight to defend her family's grow fields from extremist forces is gripping and suspenseful. Diffley's skill in creating tension and crafting dynamic action scenes sets this book apart in its genre.
For newcomers to the Davenport Series, "Storm Warning" is a perfect entry point. Brett Diffley's action-packed thriller promises to captivate and entertain with every page. Renowned for its intricate plotlines and multifaceted characters, the series shines brightly with "Storm Warning" as a stellar example of its brilliance.
"Storm Warning" by Brett Diffley is a thrilling ride from beginning to end. The characters are well-developed, with Maria Kaylor emerging as a strong and determined protagonist. Her father, Tom Spears, adds a layer of complexity to the narrative, especially as he navigates his return to a life of violence to save his daughter. The high-stakes drama and the battle against extremists are depicted with great skill, making the reader feel the urgency and danger at every turn. This book is a great pick for anyone looking for an engaging and action-packed read.
The story's settings are vividly depicted, making them easy to visualize thanks to the rich and detailed descriptions of each scene and location.
Brett Diffley's "Storm Warning" is an edge-of-your-seat thriller!
The narrative follows Maria Kaylor, a young but formidable guardian of illegal grow fields, as she faces off against extremist forces led by the ruthless Mel Belegore. Diffley's ability to create a bleak yet believable dystopian landscape, combined with his knack for suspenseful storytelling, ensures that readers will be hooked from the first page.
Diffley's detailed descriptions and well-paced plot make this book hard to put down. Highly recommended!