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The Troop of Shadows Chronicles #4
What Befalls the Children
What has Fergus gotten himself into this time?
The residents of Whitaker Holler, nestled in the Tennessee Smoky Mountains, possess the gene (engineered millennia ago) that saved them from perishing during a catastrophic global pandemic three years earlier. They’re lucky. They knew all about rustic living before the apocalypse.
Led by Serena Jo, a brilliant, determined woman who doesn’t hesitate when making impossible, even ruthless decisions about their survival, the Mountain People thrive in this newly primitive world.
Two diverse residents of a secret government warehouse (one of the nation’s seven ‘Strategic National Stockpiles’) camouflaged within a self-storage complex a few miles from Whitaker Holler also survived the pandemic.
Ray, the facility’s former brainy but phobia-plagued supervisor must accommodate his captive, a malevolent psychopath bent on murdering every human she encounters. Ray knows keeping the survivors safe from Lizzy, despite the toll she takes on his peace of mind, is the most important and dangerous job left in the world.
What if he fails?
The residents of Whitaker Holler, nestled in the Tennessee Smoky Mountains, possess the gene (engineered millennia ago) that saved them from perishing during a catastrophic global pandemic three years earlier. They’re lucky. They knew all about rustic living before the apocalypse.
Led by Serena Jo, a brilliant, determined woman who doesn’t hesitate when making impossible, even ruthless decisions about their survival, the Mountain People thrive in this newly primitive world.
Two diverse residents of a secret government warehouse (one of the nation’s seven ‘Strategic National Stockpiles’) camouflaged within a self-storage complex a few miles from Whitaker Holler also survived the pandemic.
Ray, the facility’s former brainy but phobia-plagued supervisor must accommodate his captive, a malevolent psychopath bent on murdering every human she encounters. Ray knows keeping the survivors safe from Lizzy, despite the toll she takes on his peace of mind, is the most important and dangerous job left in the world.
What if he fails?
- GenresPost Apocalyptic
286 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 16, 2020
389 people are currently reading
107 people want to read
About the author
Nicki Huntsman Smith
30 books77 followersI love books.
Everything I've learned about writing has grown from my love of reading. I began my writing career at the tender age of seven, when I wrote a play for my third-grade class. It was not an assignment; I did it because I discovered I loved creative writing as much as I loved reading. I received a children's typewriter the next year, and countless short stories followed.
I wrote some awful poetry during my teen years, then some not-so-awful short stories over the next two decades. I became serious about writing books ten years ago. The timing felt right, and I created the world-altering habit of writing every day.
My first published novel, Secrets Under the Mesa, began as a short story. I decided it had some legs and went with it. The inspiration for The Troop of Shadows Chronicles emerged from two directions: my love of post-apocalyptic fiction and a recent interest in disaster preparedness.
Stephen King says, "Talent is cheaper than table salt. What separates the talented individual from the successful one is a lot of hard work."
The hard work is worth it. I hope you enjoy my novels. I wrote them for fellow book lovers just like you.
I live in the suburbs of Dallas, Texas, with my husband and three spoiled rotten rescue dogs.
Everything I've learned about writing has grown from my love of reading. I began my writing career at the tender age of seven, when I wrote a play for my third-grade class. It was not an assignment; I did it because I discovered I loved creative writing as much as I loved reading. I received a children's typewriter the next year, and countless short stories followed.
I wrote some awful poetry during my teen years, then some not-so-awful short stories over the next two decades. I became serious about writing books ten years ago. The timing felt right, and I created the world-altering habit of writing every day.
My first published novel, Secrets Under the Mesa, began as a short story. I decided it had some legs and went with it. The inspiration for The Troop of Shadows Chronicles emerged from two directions: my love of post-apocalyptic fiction and a recent interest in disaster preparedness.
Stephen King says, "Talent is cheaper than table salt. What separates the talented individual from the successful one is a lot of hard work."
The hard work is worth it. I hope you enjoy my novels. I wrote them for fellow book lovers just like you.
I live in the suburbs of Dallas, Texas, with my husband and three spoiled rotten rescue dogs.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
October 1, 2020
What's your post-apocalyptic ability Delmar? Well, cain't ya tell? Ima fuckin' invisible? I can SEE you Delmar. But Floyd, when I look in da mirror, dere ain't no reflection. You dumbass Delmar. That ain't no mirror. It's the bathroom window. CRAP!
Another fine effort from this author. We find ourselves in the woods of the Tennessee mountains in a community painted with the hillbilly brush on the outside, but full of post-apocalyptic special folks on the inside. When I say "special", I'm not talking about banjo strummin', vittle-dribblin', moonshine-guzzling folks who spend all day whittling on their porch. These folks are the opposite of "not right in the head". And they have special powers too. (Nooooo....not voodoo.) Unfortunately, the apocalypse has also left behind some pretty clued-up psychopaths too. One in-particular is fixin' to rain havoc on our little group of Clampett wannabees.
The writing style is compelling enough to knock this book over in one go, but because of my incredibly short attention span, I managed it in a week or so. Fast for me. Lots of action. Some gruesome bits (yeah). Everything you'd expect from a well-written post-apocalypse novel. I like the reference to government cover-ups. So topical in the present environment.
I highly recommend this fella. It could be read as a standalone story, but really ... go read the first three installments before you read this one. You won't regret it.
Another fine effort from this author. We find ourselves in the woods of the Tennessee mountains in a community painted with the hillbilly brush on the outside, but full of post-apocalyptic special folks on the inside. When I say "special", I'm not talking about banjo strummin', vittle-dribblin', moonshine-guzzling folks who spend all day whittling on their porch. These folks are the opposite of "not right in the head". And they have special powers too. (Nooooo....not voodoo.) Unfortunately, the apocalypse has also left behind some pretty clued-up psychopaths too. One in-particular is fixin' to rain havoc on our little group of Clampett wannabees.
The writing style is compelling enough to knock this book over in one go, but because of my incredibly short attention span, I managed it in a week or so. Fast for me. Lots of action. Some gruesome bits (yeah). Everything you'd expect from a well-written post-apocalypse novel. I like the reference to government cover-ups. So topical in the present environment.
I highly recommend this fella. It could be read as a standalone story, but really ... go read the first three installments before you read this one. You won't regret it.
September 4, 2020
Did not disappoint!
I could barely wait for this book in the series to come out! I love the new characters and was so happy to catch up with Fergus! Now the wait begins for the next one!!
I could barely wait for this book in the series to come out! I love the new characters and was so happy to catch up with Fergus! Now the wait begins for the next one!!
September 27, 2020
Great book for almost any adult reader.
My review perspective comes from having already read the three previous books, which I recommend highly. Flowing dialogue that keeps me focused on the story as if I am ‘personally’ engaged in the moment with the characters. Thanks Nicki for a great escape from our real pandemic - to the after effects of one fictionally created from the mind of a really talented author.
My review perspective comes from having already read the three previous books, which I recommend highly. Flowing dialogue that keeps me focused on the story as if I am ‘personally’ engaged in the moment with the characters. Thanks Nicki for a great escape from our real pandemic - to the after effects of one fictionally created from the mind of a really talented author.
April 18, 2021
I love this series! The characters and topography keep my interest, it is hard to put it down once you start reading! I am looking forward to the continuing saga of Fergus!!
March 30, 2021
Apocalyptic disaster and Survival Series
This should be a movie on HBO. Great books. Loved the characters I love the adventure. Your riding was superb it felt like I was there with them I hope you continue to write in these books I’m looking forward to reading them
This should be a movie on HBO. Great books. Loved the characters I love the adventure. Your riding was superb it felt like I was there with them I hope you continue to write in these books I’m looking forward to reading them
July 7, 2021
I just finished book 4 in the Troop of Shadows chronicles. I'm a life long fan of science fiction, alien, serial killer, and apocalyptic stories. The storyline of why the human race was decimated is unique in the genre and I was thrilled when it was revealed. I'm eagerly awaiting book 5 in the series.
If the books are ever optioned to be made into movies or a tv series, I will tirelessly campaign for the sublime Peter Dinklage to be cast as Fergus. What a treat it would be to see him bring that character to life!
If the books are ever optioned to be made into movies or a tv series, I will tirelessly campaign for the sublime Peter Dinklage to be cast as Fergus. What a treat it would be to see him bring that character to life!
September 5, 2020
As always, Ms. Huntsman Smith delivers an epic story with fascinating characters I wish I knew in real life (most of them, anyway--one in particular I'd never want to meet personally...) The plot is compelling. The characters are riveting. She offers a unique perspective on a thought-provoking theme. I especially enjoyed the children's perspective. But above all, there's Fergus, a character I'm completely drawn to. What Befalls the Children is a must-read.
May 13, 2023
Unfortunately, I'm getting a sense of déjà vu. This is the fourth book in the series, and the narrative doesn't seem to be advancing. We're stuck in a rut. Despite the excellent writing, we're not learning anything new about our alien overlords. We have some information: they're ancient, and they've been manipulating the human genome for a long time, culling the herd to make us special and collecting the exceptional ones. They can control the weather, and they only want the best and brightest. It's a bit like Mensa or the X-Men!
We have new locations and a new cast of characters, all of whom are great, by the way. The characterization is excellent. However, we're stuck in a status quo. There is also an abundance of psychopaths as if they've all broken out of an asylum en masse. 99% of the world's population is dead, and of the 1% left, 99% are all raving, murderous lunatics. How unlucky was that for the 1% who survived an ELE? It must be like falling into a barrel of tits and coming out sucking your thumb!
Anyway, there's only one more book to go, so fingers crossed that it will have a rip-roaring ending, and we'll finally get some closure.
We have new locations and a new cast of characters, all of whom are great, by the way. The characterization is excellent. However, we're stuck in a status quo. There is also an abundance of psychopaths as if they've all broken out of an asylum en masse. 99% of the world's population is dead, and of the 1% left, 99% are all raving, murderous lunatics. How unlucky was that for the 1% who survived an ELE? It must be like falling into a barrel of tits and coming out sucking your thumb!
Anyway, there's only one more book to go, so fingers crossed that it will have a rip-roaring ending, and we'll finally get some closure.
February 8, 2024
One of the best…
…really, if you’ve read the first three, there is not reason not to read this one. First of all, the story continues but, mostly, it continues in a surprising, different way. Actually, I think it is the best of the four— but maybe I’m just partial to the Smoky Mountains. Fergus is back in this installment and the only negative is that Amelia is not, really. However, there are several completely original NEW characters that make up for her. And the bad guy, who’s a women, is really one of the most evil characters I’ve come across.
Really, don’t miss this one.
…really, if you’ve read the first three, there is not reason not to read this one. First of all, the story continues but, mostly, it continues in a surprising, different way. Actually, I think it is the best of the four— but maybe I’m just partial to the Smoky Mountains. Fergus is back in this installment and the only negative is that Amelia is not, really. However, there are several completely original NEW characters that make up for her. And the bad guy, who’s a women, is really one of the most evil characters I’ve come across.
Really, don’t miss this one.
February 27, 2023
I love post apocalyptic books and most of them are not the greatest. The same old thing about a surprise world end and the preppers and prior military hold off the crazy people to start there own community. I wasn’t sure I was going to like the magical bent to the story but found it to be an interesting aspect. I’m up to number 5 in the series now which I believe is the last so I’m going to hold off jumping right in since I’ll miss my new friends when it’s over.
May 13, 2023
I don’t usually write reviews (although I enjoy reading them), but I have to praise this series of books. I just finished #4 to find out there is a 5th and I can’t wait. This isn’t my usual genre, but these books are so well written and the characters are well rounded. And the twists are completely surprising. I highly recommend this series to everyone! I would also recommend that you start with book one as the others build on that story.
November 19, 2023
Absolutely riveting series
This is a tale of an apocalypse that is totally unique and spell binding. Totally indefensible evil rages alongside goodness and a code of honor that defies all logic.... As the series sweeps to its end, there is no clear cut certainty who will prevail... or if in the end, the ancient race watching over them all in horror, will simply decide to wipe the slate clean of everyone and everything.... A+++ and a sky full of stars!
This is a tale of an apocalypse that is totally unique and spell binding. Totally indefensible evil rages alongside goodness and a code of honor that defies all logic.... As the series sweeps to its end, there is no clear cut certainty who will prevail... or if in the end, the ancient race watching over them all in horror, will simply decide to wipe the slate clean of everyone and everything.... A+++ and a sky full of stars!
June 17, 2021
After reading several "average" books, I started this series by taking the free book #1. Then I bought book #2, then, well you get the idea. I'm anxious to read book #5 when it comes out. With the world in the shape, it's currently in, these fantasy bits and pieces seem to have a thread of humanity you admire and can not stop reading!
May 21, 2021
Wow
I’ve read all of the books in the series so far and I just can’t stop reading them I can’t sleep at night because I want to finish right now they are so good post apocalyptic with a little bit of sci fi
I’ve read all of the books in the series so far and I just can’t stop reading them I can’t sleep at night because I want to finish right now they are so good post apocalyptic with a little bit of sci fi
May 23, 2023
Right, finished the series (or at least the 5 books so far) and have to say I enjoyed it. Great plotline, interesting characters, excellent writting. However, it does get repetitive with same characters just moving to different towns facing a bad bunch and having a happy ending.
July 6, 2023
Brilliant series
Absolutely amazing series. Full of twisted plots . The story is totally engrossing and leaves you wanting more . Different take on the usual apocalypse books definitely recommend this series.
Absolutely amazing series. Full of twisted plots . The story is totally engrossing and leaves you wanting more . Different take on the usual apocalypse books definitely recommend this series.
December 27, 2023
Wonderful characters,good read!
From book 1 to 4 exciting books with characters that draw you in. Five stars plus. Preppers, science fiction aficionados, all will love these books. Diving right into book 5 hopefully Fergus will lead the way.the rd
From book 1 to 4 exciting books with characters that draw you in. Five stars plus. Preppers, science fiction aficionados, all will love these books. Diving right into book 5 hopefully Fergus will lead the way.the rd
April 2, 2022
What a ride
A fun story to read. Fast paced. Fascinating characters. Evil villains. Definitely looking forward to the next book in the series.
A fun story to read. Fast paced. Fascinating characters. Evil villains. Definitely looking forward to the next book in the series.
November 20, 2022
Loved it!
I laughed out loud and while I didn't cry, I wanted to! This author is very different and I love her work!!
I laughed out loud and while I didn't cry, I wanted to! This author is very different and I love her work!!
July 9, 2023
Enjoyed
I really am enjoying this series and the author's writing style. Easy,fun read. I will continue the series and look forward to more.
I really am enjoying this series and the author's writing style. Easy,fun read. I will continue the series and look forward to more.
February 16, 2024
Good character development with the views of different characters.
May 4, 2024
This series is a little strange at first, but then you get hooked!
August 13, 2025
Totally loving this series! On to book 5. 👍
July 22, 2022
Again, very well written and edited, but here we go again with the exact same story line of the first two books in the series. Not sure what the author was wanting to do with this series, as the reasoning towards making each book a repeat of the previous has lost me completely and I am done with this. Too bad, as I am very impressed with the storytelling prowess of this author. But it has stopped making sense and I have better things to do than read the same book over and over under a different name each time.
July 1, 2021
Excellent read
My hero Fergus prevailed again, this book and the entire series are excellent as the author brings them to life. One of the BEST books I’ve read in a long while. I can’t wait to see the next book very excited on this post apocalypse journey.
My hero Fergus prevailed again, this book and the entire series are excellent as the author brings them to life. One of the BEST books I’ve read in a long while. I can’t wait to see the next book very excited on this post apocalypse journey.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews