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The Troop of Shadows Chronicles #5
Those Who Come the Last
It's been three years since a global pandemic decimated the earth's population. The conflicts that continue to rage in its aftermath threaten to tear apart two diverse societies living in Appalachia. The multi-generational feud between the Whitakers and the Murdocks is about to boil over in the Tennessee Smoky Mountains. The Whitakers, led by the fierce and brilliant Serena Jo, can no longer allow the Murdocks' savagery to exist so close to their own peaceful and prosperous holler.
Will the help of a few outsiders offset the disparity in numbers? Can the Whitakers prevail against the brutality of the former crime-syndicate family and its malevolent leader?
How many lives will be lost if they fail? Or worse, how many prisoners of war will be brutalized if the Murdocks triumph?
Will the help of a few outsiders offset the disparity in numbers? Can the Whitakers prevail against the brutality of the former crime-syndicate family and its malevolent leader?
How many lives will be lost if they fail? Or worse, how many prisoners of war will be brutalized if the Murdocks triumph?
- GenresFictionPost Apocalyptic
281 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 19, 2022
174 people are currently reading
71 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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
July 13, 2022
It's great.
I could never write an unbiased review about this author's work. I am acquainted with her and know that she lets me beat her at Words With Friends on rare occasions. Having said that, I gave this book 5 stars simply because that's what it's worth. I know it.
I could never write an unbiased review about this author's work. I am acquainted with her and know that she lets me beat her at Words With Friends on rare occasions. Having said that, I gave this book 5 stars simply because that's what it's worth. I know it.
March 21, 2022
wow
I’ve been waiting for this book and it was just as good as every book before it but I wish it was longer and I hope she writes at least another one that’s plenty I want to know about the children when they get older
I’ve been waiting for this book and it was just as good as every book before it but I wish it was longer and I hope she writes at least another one that’s plenty I want to know about the children when they get older
July 29, 2022
Simply Excellent
I loved this series. The characters, plot development, and yes, the humour, were all top drawer. To the author…thank you!
I loved this series. The characters, plot development, and yes, the humour, were all top drawer. To the author…thank you!
April 2, 2023
This author is a building force...
I've just finished this fifth installment of one of the best series I've read in years. And I'm an old fart who has read a poopload of science fiction/fantasy/distopadope in my time. I have not been more enamored with a new writer in years. Although this last book in this series is the weakest (in my opinion) of the five book series, it was still one of the most entertaining, enthralling, enveloping, enjoyable (borrowing from Is a Isaiah's lexicon) reads that I have had the pleasure of reading. The characters are incredibly fleshed out and relatable. The story lines are immersive and believable. I know that I'm gushing here but this is some truly unique stuff here, kids! Start from the first, read them all, then thank me profusely. You're welcome.
I've just finished this fifth installment of one of the best series I've read in years. And I'm an old fart who has read a poopload of science fiction/fantasy/distopadope in my time. I have not been more enamored with a new writer in years. Although this last book in this series is the weakest (in my opinion) of the five book series, it was still one of the most entertaining, enthralling, enveloping, enjoyable (borrowing from Is a Isaiah's lexicon) reads that I have had the pleasure of reading. The characters are incredibly fleshed out and relatable. The story lines are immersive and believable. I know that I'm gushing here but this is some truly unique stuff here, kids! Start from the first, read them all, then thank me profusely. You're welcome.
March 21, 2022
Great characters are the hallmark of this series, and this installment continues the trend--people you love to love, love to hate, and some that you can't really decide about for a while. In particular, the young characters are so well-drawn and intricate, and their voices so incredibly strong. I want to know these people in real life, but the best I can hope for is that the series might just continue (hint, hint, author...) Aside from the stellar characters, the plot is riveting. I tore through the book, always anxious to see what came next. The book was high in suspense and intrigue, and the ending was quite satisfying. One of the best books I've read in a long time!
April 25, 2022
Greatness!
I have read all 5 books in the Troop of Shadows, all were excellent reads. You will fall in love with some characters, Fergus and and Harlan are my favorites! Nicki’s writing has all the elements for a good story with danger, evil, suspense, love, and humor. I also loved the easy transition between books. I highly recommend this writer and all of these books!
I have read all 5 books in the Troop of Shadows, all were excellent reads. You will fall in love with some characters, Fergus and and Harlan are my favorites! Nicki’s writing has all the elements for a good story with danger, evil, suspense, love, and humor. I also loved the easy transition between books. I highly recommend this writer and all of these books!
April 24, 2022
Great Series-Great Read
This series has kept me bound to the stories with the good character development and great story lines. It has been a pleasure to read. I hope there maybe a continuation of the series in tge future.
This series has kept me bound to the stories with the good character development and great story lines. It has been a pleasure to read. I hope there maybe a continuation of the series in tge future.
April 5, 2022
Great story
I enjoyed this story of love, violence, and determination. Well written and fun to read. The characters are awesome and the story is wild.
I enjoyed this story of love, violence, and determination. Well written and fun to read. The characters are awesome and the story is wild.
May 5, 2022
Loved this series so much! So sad that this was the last book in the series!
May 7, 2022
This book was a great ending to a wonderful series! Highly recommend! I hope there is a spin-off series one day with Willa and Kenny!
May 16, 2023
OMG, they've killed Kenny!
It's a very entertaining series - well written and enjoyable to read. The characters are great and well-rounded. However, the plotline was a tad predictable. This is possibly the last book in the series, although I'm not 100% sure. It continues from the previous book, focusing on a pending confrontation between two clans: the good guys and the bad guys. I'm glad that this complex part of the plot has been cleared up.
The book mainly concentrates on the strategies and tactics of the main character for the climactic battle ahead. It also explores what is at stake for the community and its future survival. Some relationships blossom, while others come to an end, and still others take a completely different path.
Overall, it was an exciting and exhilarating read, with some parts being suspenseful and vaguely humorous. I'm not sure how I feel about the ending. On one hand, I was hoping for more information from the author regarding the alien side of the story, wanting to delve deeper into that aspect. On the other hand, I felt a bit deflated, disappointed and flat with the ending. However, not completely unsurprising.
It's a very entertaining series - well written and enjoyable to read. The characters are great and well-rounded. However, the plotline was a tad predictable. This is possibly the last book in the series, although I'm not 100% sure. It continues from the previous book, focusing on a pending confrontation between two clans: the good guys and the bad guys. I'm glad that this complex part of the plot has been cleared up.
The book mainly concentrates on the strategies and tactics of the main character for the climactic battle ahead. It also explores what is at stake for the community and its future survival. Some relationships blossom, while others come to an end, and still others take a completely different path.
Overall, it was an exciting and exhilarating read, with some parts being suspenseful and vaguely humorous. I'm not sure how I feel about the ending. On one hand, I was hoping for more information from the author regarding the alien side of the story, wanting to delve deeper into that aspect. On the other hand, I felt a bit deflated, disappointed and flat with the ending. However, not completely unsurprising.
May 6, 2023
This is the last book in the series and I was sad to say goodbye to all the great characters that Nicki Huntsman Smith has created.
The last book picks up where book 4 has ended. The war between the Whitakers and the Murdocks.
I did enjoy the series. I was on the fence about the 'special people' who lived underground but it was easy to love Fergus! He's my favorite and I am sure everyone else's too.
I don't want to give spoilers... so all I can say is that all 5 books are worth reading. Her character development is superb! The story line is stellar! I wish it just kept going and going!
The last book is about the show down between both families and who ends up being the king of the mountain. It also brings some beloved characters from the first novels back and lets you know what has happened to some. I like the closure of it all. This is a very quick read. Not because the story is short but because it's so well written you can read it so easily and its so good you don't want to stop reading.
The last book picks up where book 4 has ended. The war between the Whitakers and the Murdocks.
I did enjoy the series. I was on the fence about the 'special people' who lived underground but it was easy to love Fergus! He's my favorite and I am sure everyone else's too.
I don't want to give spoilers... so all I can say is that all 5 books are worth reading. Her character development is superb! The story line is stellar! I wish it just kept going and going!
The last book is about the show down between both families and who ends up being the king of the mountain. It also brings some beloved characters from the first novels back and lets you know what has happened to some. I like the closure of it all. This is a very quick read. Not because the story is short but because it's so well written you can read it so easily and its so good you don't want to stop reading.
November 22, 2023
One of the finest apocalypse series I have ever read!
If there was a ten star rating this series would more than earn it! Exceptional character building, world building, and an action driven plot that still manages to make you love the "people" filling the pages. Evil exists in its most dangerous and virulent forms as well as love, honor, and true goodness in some of the survivors of the " apocalypse ".... And watching over it all is an ancient race of sentinels prepared to take the ultimate action if it is deemed necessary.... This series ends in such a manner that a follow-up series would be far from impossible and I can only hope it will appear in the near future. I would love to have the privilege of reading another series about these unique individuals in my remaining few years....Wonderful job Ms. Smith, and thank you! A+++!
If there was a ten star rating this series would more than earn it! Exceptional character building, world building, and an action driven plot that still manages to make you love the "people" filling the pages. Evil exists in its most dangerous and virulent forms as well as love, honor, and true goodness in some of the survivors of the " apocalypse ".... And watching over it all is an ancient race of sentinels prepared to take the ultimate action if it is deemed necessary.... This series ends in such a manner that a follow-up series would be far from impossible and I can only hope it will appear in the near future. I would love to have the privilege of reading another series about these unique individuals in my remaining few years....Wonderful job Ms. Smith, and thank you! A+++!
August 24, 2023
Five stars for each of these! I rarely read books that are part of a series because I get bored of the characters or storylines, but I loved all five of the Troop of Shadows Chronicles. I was initially drawn to the plot because of its parallels to The Stand, but the books morphed into their own unique tale. Nicki Huntsman Smith did a fabulous job of introducing quirky yet believable characters who each served a purpose. It was easy to follow multiple protagonists across a number of settings and I love the way they came together. The final book was slightly less entertaining than the previous ones, but Fergus’ charm still held my interest. The writing itself was beautiful and I couldn’t put these books down!
April 24, 2022
Great series
This series opened on an exciting note and closed on a very satisfying one. The characters were complex and realistic. I loved how the first book tied in with book five. It all came together wonderfully. There were a few clutches in the E-version, repeated pages...and a few of the characters were unnecessary, like the author was just trying to fill pages. Overall, it was a thrill ride and as my favorite character Sam would say, "Buckle up daisy". Yeah, read the series, you'll understand it.
This series opened on an exciting note and closed on a very satisfying one. The characters were complex and realistic. I loved how the first book tied in with book five. It all came together wonderfully. There were a few clutches in the E-version, repeated pages...and a few of the characters were unnecessary, like the author was just trying to fill pages. Overall, it was a thrill ride and as my favorite character Sam would say, "Buckle up daisy". Yeah, read the series, you'll understand it.
July 24, 2022
So very entertaining
I don't normally write reviews but I feel I must do so for the Troop of Shadows series. Each of the five books in the series were so totally entrancing. Every character so well defined and engaging. Generally, if the first book in a series doesn't propel me to buy the second book I won't continue the series. This series demanded I continue reading. My only disappointment is that the series ended with book number 5. This series is totally a Good Read and I will certainly seek other books from this author.
I don't normally write reviews but I feel I must do so for the Troop of Shadows series. Each of the five books in the series were so totally entrancing. Every character so well defined and engaging. Generally, if the first book in a series doesn't propel me to buy the second book I won't continue the series. This series demanded I continue reading. My only disappointment is that the series ended with book number 5. This series is totally a Good Read and I will certainly seek other books from this author.
April 26, 2023
Excellent!
I consider a good book to be one that holds my attention when I am reading it.
I consider a very good book to be one that makes me stay up until 3 am to get to the end.
But this book I consider Excellent. This is a book that holds my attention, makes me stay up all night to finish it, AND makes me part of the lives of the characters. Being a mother myself, I could relate to Serena Jo’s terror for her children. Being a nurse I could empathize with the pain of Dani, Sam, Maddie and Pablo. I am still on the fence about the underground people.
Its not a story I wanted to end, and I will probably read it again and again. Nicki, you did an excellent job!
I consider a good book to be one that holds my attention when I am reading it.
I consider a very good book to be one that makes me stay up until 3 am to get to the end.
But this book I consider Excellent. This is a book that holds my attention, makes me stay up all night to finish it, AND makes me part of the lives of the characters. Being a mother myself, I could relate to Serena Jo’s terror for her children. Being a nurse I could empathize with the pain of Dani, Sam, Maddie and Pablo. I am still on the fence about the underground people.
Its not a story I wanted to end, and I will probably read it again and again. Nicki, you did an excellent job!
March 7, 2023
Great series. I love post apocalyptic stories but they are usually are pretty much all the same- the world somehow goes to hell and the preppers and military men come out of the woodwork. This one throws in a little magic which turned me off initially as just too far fetched… but the storyline kept me moving along at a good pace and I fell in love with the characters and the learning curve of the survivors. Very good series, sorry it had to end. Hopefully we will see these characters again!?
May 11, 2023
All five books
I enjoyed reading the give books in this series. The characters made me laugh. The concept of the end of humanity was very unique. I enjoyed Fergus character the most. Dani and Sam, where perfect combination of slightly mad and lover. Each book brought different characters. The fact that each book played out in a different part of the country made the series even more colorful. This series is a must read.
I enjoyed reading the give books in this series. The characters made me laugh. The concept of the end of humanity was very unique. I enjoyed Fergus character the most. Dani and Sam, where perfect combination of slightly mad and lover. Each book brought different characters. The fact that each book played out in a different part of the country made the series even more colorful. This series is a must read.
January 27, 2023
The Troop of Shadows Chronicles
This series was fantastic. I enjoyed every story. It advertised similar to Stephen King & I must say I can see it! Like Mr. King's writing - that makes ME feel like I'm actually there..was present in all of these books!! I really enjoyed them & was sorry I'd finished them so quickly.
This series was fantastic. I enjoyed every story. It advertised similar to Stephen King & I must say I can see it! Like Mr. King's writing - that makes ME feel like I'm actually there..was present in all of these books!! I really enjoyed them & was sorry I'd finished them so quickly.
February 14, 2023
what a fantastic series of books
These have got to be one of the best Apocalyptic series of books I have read, I didn’t want to stop reading them, but was sad when they came to an end. Hopefully there will be some follow up stories.
Will definitely be looking for more books by this excellent author, well done fantastic read.
These have got to be one of the best Apocalyptic series of books I have read, I didn’t want to stop reading them, but was sad when they came to an end. Hopefully there will be some follow up stories.
Will definitely be looking for more books by this excellent author, well done fantastic read.
March 4, 2023
Crazy good read
This series was a rollercoaster of epic proportions. The character development was something very special. You will not go wrong digging into this series....I only feel bad for the author of the book that I read next, as my disappointment in not matching up to this may be hard to overcome.
This series was a rollercoaster of epic proportions. The character development was something very special. You will not go wrong digging into this series....I only feel bad for the author of the book that I read next, as my disappointment in not matching up to this may be hard to overcome.
March 13, 2023
What a great series
Initially, I was somewhat unsure about the series premise: However, I stuck with the first book and I am so glad I did. A series for both older teenagers and adults alike, with characters who can be admired and loved as well as those who evoke visceral hatred. This is a series that I wish could go on forever.
Initially, I was somewhat unsure about the series premise: However, I stuck with the first book and I am so glad I did. A series for both older teenagers and adults alike, with characters who can be admired and loved as well as those who evoke visceral hatred. This is a series that I wish could go on forever.
May 22, 2023
The Holler
This is I dare better than The Stand. I could stand to read book six if Nicki is so inclined to write. There are a few characters I’d like to see developed. If you are reading this, that means you are getting ready to read book five. Trust me no spoilers, and you will not be disappointed.
This is I dare better than The Stand. I could stand to read book six if Nicki is so inclined to write. There are a few characters I’d like to see developed. If you are reading this, that means you are getting ready to read book five. Trust me no spoilers, and you will not be disappointed.
July 3, 2023
There are only a few series that I have read that when completed I immediately start missing the characters in the story. This is one of those rare series for me.
This entire series was a fast read but was a page turner as I stayed in a state of flux. What is next? How will they get out of this situation?
I would certainly encourage anyone to take the short time to read this series.
This entire series was a fast read but was a page turner as I stayed in a state of flux. What is next? How will they get out of this situation?
I would certainly encourage anyone to take the short time to read this series.
February 14, 2024
I am truly heartbroken to be done with this. I loved the characters in this series and wanted more. I thought this wrapped up the storylines well. I love how the author shows the depravity of the end times but never gets too graphic or too crazy, just enough to get the point across. I will miss Fergus and the people of the Holler, and I’m just sad I finished this series so quickly!
September 16, 2022
Another worthy addition to this great series.
If this is the last book in the series, I will miss the characters and their story. This was a fast pace action filled thrill ride from start to finish. Get the books and leave your reviews.
If this is the last book in the series, I will miss the characters and their story. This was a fast pace action filled thrill ride from start to finish. Get the books and leave your reviews.
February 13, 2023
I Enjoyed This Series!
I'd be hard pressed to pick a favorite book. The first one reminded me so much of "The Stand". But I overcame that, with the 2nd. I think I'm going to miss this world. Fergus, for sure. And Ray. I would enjoy reading about them again. Keep them coming!
I'd be hard pressed to pick a favorite book. The first one reminded me so much of "The Stand". But I overcame that, with the 2nd. I think I'm going to miss this world. Fergus, for sure. And Ray. I would enjoy reading about them again. Keep them coming!
March 5, 2023
Outstanding!
Just binged the whole 5 book series over four days, it was THAT good!
I like post apocalyptic stories but to be fair a lot just seem to turn out very similar to previous stories I'd read, not this series, thoroughly enjoyed every book.
Definitely recommend these👌
Just binged the whole 5 book series over four days, it was THAT good!
I like post apocalyptic stories but to be fair a lot just seem to turn out very similar to previous stories I'd read, not this series, thoroughly enjoyed every book.
Definitely recommend these👌
April 6, 2023
A Fascinating, Thrilling Read
I just finished all of the books in the Troop of Shadows Chronicles. I love this author and her books. I binge-read them in 3 days. I’ll be moving on to more of her books soon.
I just finished all of the books in the Troop of Shadows Chronicles. I love this author and her books. I binge-read them in 3 days. I’ll be moving on to more of her books soon.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews