Caim

Antipodes #4

by T.S. Simons

What would YOU risk for those you love?

Sometimes traditions shouldn’t be forgotten. Going back to their Gaelic roots, the community entrusts their safety to the circle of protection the Caim provides. As it envelops them, Freyja and Cam are blissfully happy. Living with their family and friends in their isolated community on Lewis, they finally feel safe and content. But when old acquaintances arrive with shocking news, they leave their safety behind as they try to learn the truth of why they were chosen, and what diabolical plans the scientific communities have designed, just for them…

Love, loyalty, and friendships are tested in this thrilling fourth instalment of the Antipodes series.

Genres: Dystopia

434 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 19, 2021

About the author

T.S. Simons is an award winning Australian-based author of Scottish heritage. Living in the alpine region of Australia, she believes in the values of integrity, sustainability, and community in a world where we place greater value on possessions than people. She enjoys posing philosophical questions that make readers think and reflect on the world we live in.

The Antipodes series addresses the question—if we gave young people the opportunity to start over, would they replicate the mistakes of the past?

She holds Bachelor and Master’s degrees, post-graduate qualifications in governance and management, and is an accredited company director. She is an Australia Reads Ambassador and enjoys reading, traveling, mythology, and snow skiing while attempting to live as sustainably as possible with her partner and children. She is owned by a standard schnauzer, fox red Labrador and three rescue cats who co-manage her household.

The Antipodes series comprises the international award-winning Project Hemisphere, The Space Between, Infinity, Circle of Protection, and Sessrumnir. The 45th Parallel series comprises The 45th Parallel, Orenda, and Bifrost. She is working on the fourth book in this series, Triple Helix, and a prequel to Project Hemisphere - Crossroads.

Reviews

[Ashley Dover · Rating 5 out of 5]

T.S. Simons - Wow! Another Antipodes book read. And I am truly amazed again. The story of Cam and Freya continues. Their love has been rekindled and life in the Lewis community seems to be moving along.

Visitors from Auckland via Clava come to Lewis in search of a new home. They bring with them more shocking news of how the government has been using their reproductive selection process. This news sends a shock through Freya’s and Cam’s life together as once again they have to set off to make things right.

Of course, when it comes to the communities nothing is ever completely back to normal. Follow their journey in book 4 of the Antipodes series.

[Dawn Daughenbaugh · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Stars
Caim (Antipodes 4) by T.S. Simons

Caim in the fourth book in Antipodes Series by T.S Simons and Holy Cow I absolutely loved this book. This series has become a favorite that will definitely be re-reading in the future. This one is my favorite yet I found myself lost in the pages and couldn’t stop reading. I caught myself holding my breath a couple times. My emotions were out of control with this one. If you haven’t started this series I highly recommend reading the whole series in order. Get ready to be taken on quite the adventure with this one. Cam and Freyja and their little family are happy amongst friends within their little community on Lewis. What will happen when old acquaintances show up with news? What are you willing to risk for loved ones? Find out what happens next in this absolute must read. I simply can’t recommend this series or this author enough. I can’t wait for whats coming next.

[Ashley Denno · Rating 5 out of 5]

Phew! What a ride! If you've been reading the series as it comes out you know what I mean! If not, you need to read the first 3 books. Love, joy, pain, grief, loss, aaaalll the emotions. I really hope that there are more books coming out. Not only are they a great read, they make you think about how we take care of the earth and treat each other.

[LuJac · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another complete surprise. Totally unpredictable. I love how descriptive this series is. The sights, sounds, smell, but most of all the feelings of the characters. The description of anxiety attacks is all too familiar, and real. I could picture it, and feel it.

This book is again told from Freyja's perspective, and I am enjoying the shift. You learn more about her challenges and come to like her more (I admit, I didn't like her at all in Antipodes).

Is there anything better than learning a series you love has another book to come? Nope.

[Mike McGregor · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wasn't sure I would like a dystopian book written from a female perspective, but I am surprised to say I really enjoyed it. Freyja has come a long way from the rich princess she was in book one, and I love her strength but vulnerability. I think that is one of the things I love most about this series. The characters are multi-dimensional, kick ass one minute and vulnerable the next. I would love to ask the author if they are modeled on real people. The description of PTSD is superb.
Caim picks up a few years after Ouroboros, and wow, it is quite a ride. Hard to give a review without spoilers but it is action packed and seriously hard to put down. The world building gets better with each book and characters from previous books come back into play.
Overall this is a fabulous series that I highly recommend. There is nothing standard about this series, it is original and unique.

[Erica Fish · Rating 5 out of 5]

Caim is the fourth book in the Antipodes series by T.S. Simons. I highly recommend reading the previous books. There is information about all the characters from book to book. Overall the books are well written and kept me on the edge of my seat. In this book in particular I feel like there were major twists and turns throughout the story. The characters in this book are my favorite in the series. The way that they interact with each other is amazing. They do go on a roller coaster ride adventure. This is Cam and Freyja’s adventure. They thought they had made it safely to another world, but they were wrong. Some old friends show up and tell Cam and Freyja some news will fall victim to the past? I highly recommend this book as it is a great book in an outstanding series.

[Kerry Baker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Caim by T.S. Simons is the fourth book in the Antipodes series. You really do need to read this series in order so that you can fully understand what is happening. The moment I picked up this book I was straight back into the thick of it. I really do enjoy reading about Freyja and Cam. They are such strong characters and they have definitely managed to keep the series going.
Each book in this series just seems to make it even better. When starting book one I never imagined that I would be this invested still come book four and yet every time I get my hands on the next one I can’t wait to start it. This is a fantastic series that you should definitely read

[Rayne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Intriguing, intense and entertaining
I have loved every book in this series. Each book just gets better and better and takes the reader on a wonderful journey of discovery in a world that could one day exist. Told from Freya’s POV, this story continues on from book 3 - concentrating on the establishment of family. The story is so well written that I feel the emotions so strongly - fear, hope, sadness and excitement.
T.S. Simons you have done it again. An enthralling addition to a magnificent series.

[Carla · Rating 5 out of 5]

This fourth book in the Antipodes series was really really good! I loved getting to read from Freyja's perspective. I loved how you get find out how everyone has been and what has happened after some time passes. Then as you read on learning more behind why they were chosen and what the plans were. I was shocked to learn the secrets behind the why and how it all came together. I'm looking forward to reading more from T.S. Simon as I love her writing style!

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love this series and book 4 is no exception! Cam and Freja have said that they wouldn’t leave Lewis again, but some troubling news sends them off on another mission to discover answers. The characters development throughout this series is excellent and Cam and Freja are both very believable and relatable characters. I absolutely cannot wait for the next book to come out!! I highly recommend this series to everyone who loves dystopian novels.

[Rebecca Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Caim is the 4th book in the Antipodes series by T.S. Simons. I read the last three books of this four book series, and it just got better and better. I had a hard time putting this book down. While the other books tell the story from multiple perspectives but mostly from Cam’s, this story is mostly told from the point of Freyja. We are several years past book three, and Freyja and Cam have had two more kids. This book is full of their struggle with Clava as well as with Angus. I was surprised at the turn their story took but loved reading it. I highly recommend reading this series and from the beginning!

[Jerricka · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am at a loss for words. Book 4 in this series is amazing. I felt all the emotions from/with the characters. It made me feel as though I was right there. I really thought it couldn’t get better, but I was mistaken. It continues to be great. Simons has me wanting more. I highly suggest reading this series, you will not be disappointed.

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn't think a series could get better...but it did. Caim is a fantastic thrill ride, both emotionally and well...emotionally. I am so invested in my lovely characters that the thought of anything happening to any of them actually tears my heart out. Cam and Freya are my favorite - they have been since the first book. This book also raises some really interestisng dilemnas about ethical choices, etc. If the fifth installment keeps this up, I really don't know what I'll do.

[Ember Daley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this series so much!! Definitely read the first three books to understand the characters and their challenges. Frejya and Cam are so amazing. I’m keeping my fingers crossed this isn’t the last of them.

[Jaimee C · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wowser. This series goes from strength to strength.

Caim (pronounced ky-emm) for those who, like me, didn't know the word starts with all is right with the world. But life is never happy ever after. Some old acquaintances arrive and this kick starts a chain reaction of events. I love that characters who are minor in previous books are brought back. There is this wonderful sense of world building that is rarely seen and I find myself going back to the previous novels in the series, reminding myself of people and events. The characters are so real. Those you think are strong hero types have their moments of weakness and anxiety too, but it makes you love them more.
There is tragedy, there is romance. But it is an unpredictable roller coaster. I can't say enough how much I love this series. Adventure, romance, tragedy, dystopian with a touch of paranormal too. This book has it all. Get onto it - now. You will love it.

[ChocolatePanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holy shitballs Batman. This is the best one yet.

This series goes from strength to strength. After book 3 I thought it would peter out, but holy hell no. Adventure, love, tragedy. Get ready to hold your breath as Simons makes you run the gamut of emotions. There were tears, big ugly tears. I pre-ordered this and read it in a day as I couldn’t put it down.
Minor characters from previous books return and become new faves. Illyria rocks! The scene setting is awesome, but what I love most is that you can feel the trauma and anxiety. It is gritty and real. For anyone who has ever struggled with mental health issues, this book describes those feelings perfectly. The sense of isolation is captured, but not overdone. This book wraps up neatly but I am excited to know there is one more. Not sure how long I can wait.

[Roxsanne Lesieur · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this installment of the Antipodes series, we are back with Cam and Freya as they settle back into life on Lewis with their children and families around them, they are back working hard and savouring the feeling of being home, but when the proximity alarm sets off in the middle of the night, Freya has just returned from overseeing a mare in labour and all she wants to do is sleep, but instead she pulls on her clothes and goes to their neighbours to check on the surveillance footage and be fed coffee at the same time. When they see an unfamiliar boat coming in to land, they are wary, especially after their past experiences with unannounced visitors and they know these ones are unannounced as they haven’t radioed ahead or come in at a decent time of day, however, when they go to meet the boat and let them into the dome, they are shocked to see who the passengers are, they are even less impressed at the intrusion.

As they are familiar faces who both Cam and Freja never wanted to see again, they are reluctant to give them the time of day, however, when the reason for their visit is made clear, the shock deepens, as does the intrigue surrounding it. The group slowly return to their homestead to talk in more detail and invite their closest friends into the conversation as well when it turns out that they are all affected, however, they are horrified that these people have come to them and are very cold towards them. As the conversation continues in a more comfortable setting, truths are revealed that shake the group to the core, it is to do with why they were all chosen for these communities and the future plans the scientists had for them.

Over the next couple of days, Freya and Cam process this new information and have some very hard decisions to make, but they are supported in the avenue they eventually choose and the community all pitch in to take up the slack as they set off on another necessary journey outside of the safety of the dome. The preparations are set in motion and goodbyes and explanations to the children are made, they accept help from their closest friends to accompany them on the voyage and they set off into the unknown on a mission for further information and exploration into what the future of these communities will be. Will the foursome be able to uncover the hidden plans of the scientific community, or will what they find destroy any small remnants of trust they had? This is another thrilling escapade into the dystopian world of the antipodes which will keep you on the edge of your seat as you read along with the group as they set off on their adventures and find out what happens in the end.

[Erica S · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just love all the books in this series. In this 4th installment, we pick up 7 or 8 years on from Ouroboros, and we see things through Freyja's eyes. When some nighttime visitors arrive with unexpected news, Freyja is compelled to get back on the open sea to find the answers to her questions. Lots of action ensues, and this book had me hooked from the beginning. I love the relationship between Cam and Freyja, their individual characters are great and fleshed out so well. This is a great dystopian fantasy, and I am sincerely hoping this won't be the last for these characters, or this authour!

[Desiree · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book! It continues following the life that Cam and Freyja have built from her POV. There are plot twists that you don't expect, and it keeps you reading to find out how it all ends. Just when you think The Collective can't get any worse... they do, and you want them all to burn.

This series makes you think about your life and evaluate what is really important. Truly. Love this series! You FEEL the heartache and the triumphs of the characters to your core.

[Jaimie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book four is just as suspenseful and captivating as the first three!! This book starts in Freyja's point of view after the third ended in hers'. Seven years later, Cam and Freyja are on Lewis living with their family and friends in their small sustainable community called Roseglen. They now have four kids of their own, but with all their family and friends they have their own small village which totals 13 kids! They all finally feel safe and are happy just living their simple "normal" lives. In a post apocalyptic world under a biodome that is. The water outside is still unsafe and scientists think that it will take generations before it starts to return to life. But things never go as planned with this family. When some doctors from the scientist's domes show up with some kids and earth shattering news for Freyja, they are thrust into the thick of it again and off on another journey they never thought they'd take. Freyja, Cam and two friends who join them are off to find out the truth. Or more truths really. All the lies they've been told just keep stacking up higher and higher. Who knew about all these plans? Who knew and lied? Who and what will this effect now?? Making some close friends suspects to these diabolical godlike plans they have to unearth the truth and fast! So much is at stake. The journey takes weeks and along the way Freyja learns about Caim, which is a circle of protection from Gaelic roots. Feeling like their family is at risk, yet again she feels a little lighter after calling the circle. But once home again will things fall apart? Will the messengers be killed? And what about all the kids! They unfortunately get into some trouble and it leads to some life threating stuff too. Life changing events should be the theme of this series because this poor world sure goes through some stuff! If you haven't started this series....why not?!?! It is so so good!! I'm trying so hard not to give anything away so if you read the reviews of all the books you get no spoilers from me, but let me tell you it is hard!! I want to mention so many things!! These characters are so easy to fall in love with and very relatable in many ways. It shows you that even in hard times traditions are important. Love, loyalty, and friendships are definitely tested in every book of this series so far, and I'm sure the rest will be the same. Trust me when I say you will not regret picking up this set!! You might lose a little sleep, but who hasn't done that for a really good book.... right??!! I'm off for more adventure in book 5!!

[Amy Brennan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh, silly me! This genre is my cup of tea, I have been obsessed with Dystopian novels/films/adaptations for as long as I can remember. I have read several of my favorites over and over, throughout my childhood, teen years, and again as an adult. I tackled this installment in the Antipodes series, on a whim, deciding to read the series backwards, as that seemed like a brilliant way to have my dessert before dinner.

Let me tell you, this novel has me wishing that I had normal ideas, and had read the first three books first, and trust me, I will be doing so over the next couple weeks. This novel had everything you could possibly want from this genre, and I cannot put into words how enthralled I was. From the first chapter, I was brought into this new world, introduced to Freyja and Cam, that have clearly had a tremendous amount of character building and history put into them. I was overwhelmed by my ability to transport into their world, and without the information from the previous installments, couldn't stop reading. The action, romance, trials and tribulations that the characters go through is astounding. I love a good strong female lead and was not disappointed. I am sorry that I don't have more to say on this book, as it's made its way to the top of my list for a re-read once I have completed the rest of the series. I will be editing my review once I've had the pleasure of doing so.

Thank you, T.S. Simons, for the escape you provided to me, along with goosebumps, late nights, heartache, and laughs. You are incredibly talented, and I cannot wait for more.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book four in this gripping dystopian romance series, and having read and enjoyed the previous three books, I was looking forward to this fourth instalment, and I was not disappointed. I would recommend reading the novels in order as the storyline continues where the last book left off. It was nice being back with the wonderfully detailed main characters, Cam and Freyja, who are now happily living with their family and friends on Lewis. They are finally feeling safe and content within their isolated and sustainable community, having gone back to their Gaelic roots. The community are getting used to living their ‘new normal’ lives, calling on the circle of protection and security that the Caim provides.
However, it’s not long before their frightening adventures continue, when old acquaintances arrive with shocking news, forcing Cam, Freyja, and a few trusted friends to leave their homes behind once again. The couple will also discover the truth about why they were chosen, and what the diabolical plans are that the scientific community has planned, especially for Freyja. Yet again the descriptive narrative brings the setting vividly to life making me feel immersed in the story. The plot twists kept me hooked and the storyline is a mix of drama, mystery and romance, which ensured I was happily turning the pages, late into the night! I look ‘impatiently’ forward to book five!

[Lorrene Huisman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again this amazing, wonderful, and talented author has made such an impacting, gripping, and wonderful novel filled with so much! Honestly this author does not disappoint in any shape or form!

I have been hooked on this series since the first novel in the series was released in the Antipodes series, Each installment has left me with more and more wants, questions, and the need to know what will happen next plus with the events that happen will it impact the wonderful characters I have grown such an attachment to and what and how will this affect them? Is a truth they already know but they refuse to accept? Not only will these answers change their happy life but it will define these characters not just for the time being but forever...again the writing was gripping and kept you immersed to what could, and what would happen next! I truly loved it with all my heart and soul!

Amazing novel and characters again . Seriously every time, every novel, I'm pulled more into the rabbit hole and no want to return to where I once was! High recommendation to this book, series, and author! Fore sure, all put together is a must read, and I seriously say none of that bundle is something to be passed up!

[Jennifer P Ramos · Rating 5 out of 5]

The penultimate novel in this amazing series takes us to Cam and Freyja, now happily together, with their growing family and putting their focus on new efforts in the ever-changing world. They have been slowly learning of the true origins of the new colonies and antipodes and the intentions of repopulating the Earth after the devastation of the water infestation. As these new discoveries unravel, so are other secretive possibilities which set off Cam and Freyja on another journey to Clava, the main hub of technological and medical expertise.
As the novel series continues, I brought to flashbacks of some of my other favorites, Lost (TV Series), Hunger Games and Divergent series (books and movies) that gives its reader the thrill of wanting to know what will happen next. One of my favorite parts of this series so far is watching these characters go from their young adult selves to active adults within their working community and striving for the best outcome for the newly expanded families. As the readers, we see how they interpret and accept their new world and its vastly secretive objectives as they take their own stance in fighting for what’s right. What would you do to understand the circumstances they face?

[Tara Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Freyja and Cam are blissfully happy with their lives in their community of Lewis. After all the hardships they have experienced through the years they finally feel safe and secure. Their community is sustainable and they have forged some valuable friendships. Life is peaceful until some individuals from their past arrive unexpectedly and bring with them some horrific news. Freyja feels compelled to get answers and heads out on a quest to find them.

This book was a bit darker than the first few books and really digs into the diabolical plans that the scientists had for them and the reasons why they were chosen. Cam and Freyja face some horrific and terrifying adventures throughout their journey that really tests their courage and perseverance. This one is told from Freyja’s point of view and it really opens up the reader’s eyes on who Freyja is and how courageous she is. She is a strong female role model and I admired her strength, courage, and resilience through the most difficult of hardships. Cam and Freyja make a remarkable power couple as they build each other up and are there to lean on one another through the hard times. Nothing can stop them when they are together and are a force to be reckoned with. A must read!

[Francis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Caim is the fourth book in T.S. Simons’ Antipodes series. If you haven’t already, it’s definitely worth starting at the beginning of the series (Antipodes) to get the full story!
The series is a post-apocalyptic sci-fi story. With an impending international crisis, a carefully chosen group of people are placed in safe communities where they will be safe and can rebuild and repopulate the world. There seems to be a vision of a perfect society, with social and environmental harmony, but there are many challenges and the characters begin to realise that things aren’t as perfect as they seem.
In Caim, Freyja receives some shocking news and sets out with Cam, Illy and Luca to seek the truth and set things right. They are hesitant about leaving their children, but determined to do what’s right.
What I particularly like about this series is the way it explores many interesting and topical ethical issues. There’s a conflict between individual and collective needs and the extreme situations increase the stakes.
For me, this is another five-star read! I’d recommend the series to young adult and new adult readers concerned about the environment and how to build a better world.

[N · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've enjoyed all the books in the Antipodes series so far. Caim probably has the most moral dilemmas of them all which make for a more challenging but nevertheless still enjoyable read. I was a bit confused at the start as this book is written from Freyja's point of view rather than Cam's but it was great to be able to get into her headspace because the plot is based on her character. Visitors come to Lewis where Freyja and Cam live, and bring horrifying information about a forced breeding program being implemented. In that sense, the utopia of previous novels quickly falls into a dystopia, in the same vein as other novels in the feminist dystopian genre that question whether the end justifies the means. It was also interesting to see how the community has attempted to become a more socially conscious/non-offensive society but perhaps humans are still sometimes not good people. This novel gets dark and probably needs some trigger warnings. Although the story centres on Freyja, I did enjoy getting to know more about some of the other characters in the book we've seen before but not gotten to know. Overall, a gripping read.

[Angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars

Caim is the fourth book in the Antipodes series by T.S Simons. As with the rest of the books in the series, it is a fantastic post-apocalyptic, dystopian story with some sci-fi elements, action, adventure, romance, drama, discovery, friendships, bonds, loyalty, trauma, anxiety, trials, surprising developments, twists, tension, mystery, emotion, and much more.
Quite a lot has happened since we started back in book one and our characters have been through quite a lot. The safety and happiness they found will be disrupted as shocking news means leaving to search for answers. Love and friendships are on the line- loyalties are tested, and shocking discoveries are made. The series gets better and better, with each new instalment, and for me, this is the most emotionally charged story of the series, so far.
I still think this series would make great television viewing. I can really see it coming to life on the small screen.
OMG- can’t wait to dive into ‘Sessrumnir’ (Book #5)!!!

Thank you, T.S. Simons!

[Callie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Spoilers ahead for the previous book, Ouroborous. Do not read if you have not finished! Highly recommend reading them in order!

Caim starts with surprise visitors to Lewis, 7 years after they have disconnected the portals and declined to become part of Collective. Their Caim of Roseglen has grown considerably and they are all living their best lives. The visitors bring two little girls that have striking features extremely similar to Freyjas’ own daughters. Thus, it is discovered that genetic material from Kat (Freyjas’ sister) has been used to create children. Of course, their group must journey to find out the whole truth. Freyja is still the first-person viewpoint that we follow, and this makes this book even more devastating. Only wait until you find out who the father is and that those two girls are not all the surprises in store. The ending of this book expertly led up to an extremely surprising conclusion.

I can’t wait to read Sessrumnir, the next book in the Antipodes series!

[Kerry carr · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the 4th book in the Antipodes series and it was just as enjoyable as the first 3. I would really recommend reading these books in order so you get the whole story. The author does an amazing job at creating the scenes and also creating characters you connect with. This book is another adventure from beginning to end with twists and turns you don't see coming.

In this book we are back with Cam and Freyja. Finally together and settled in a blissful life their world seems complete. Until two old friends/enemy's turn up with news and theories to rock their world.

Could Freyja sister be alive? Is she being kept and used to help repopulate the world against her will or has something more sinister happened. There is only one way to find out and it means Cam and Freyja leave the safety of their home to get the answers. But are they prepared for the truth or should they have stayed in their own little bubble of bliss and ignorance.