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Heartland Aliens #3
Judgment
TIME HAS RUN OUT.
The last chance for humanity to take back Earth — or lose it forever — begins now.
The War of the Worlds gets turbocharged in this nonstop action-packed thriller about a group of survivors thrust into extraordinary circumstances.
Judgment, the final book in the Heartland Aliens series, concludes this heart-stopping tale of survival and determination in the face of overwhelming odds.
The last chance for humanity to take back Earth — or lose it forever — begins now.
The War of the Worlds gets turbocharged in this nonstop action-packed thriller about a group of survivors thrust into extraordinary circumstances.
Judgment, the final book in the Heartland Aliens series, concludes this heart-stopping tale of survival and determination in the face of overwhelming odds.
- GenresScience Fiction
313 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 29, 2022
181 people are currently reading
59 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
July 28, 2024
This series has a pretty consistent tone and quality level. Overall it's a fun read with an ending that makes sense for the way the story has already been playing out (with one exception I'll get to) and is actually satisfying to read... they win, not caviate, no "or did they?" it is an actual, clear victory
Now on to the exception: Why is the central hivemind hub on Earth? It's the greatest point of vunerability for the aliens and it's on a not fully conqured planet? It's not like this is just a node in a larger network either, taking this thing out shatters the hivemind over lightyears of distance. If it has that kind of range, why isn't it still on the original homeworld?
Now on to the exception: Why is the central hivemind hub on Earth? It's the greatest point of vunerability for the aliens and it's on a not fully conqured planet? It's not like this is just a node in a larger network either, taking this thing out shatters the hivemind over lightyears of distance. If it has that kind of range, why isn't it still on the original homeworld?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 7, 2022
To a mind that could ride along with numberless consciousnesses across uncountable worlds, no life truly mattered.
3 1/2 stars for the book and ultimately the series as a whole. This was what I'd call a good ending to an above-average trilogy that sadly missed its chance to be epic. "Judgment" is certainly - again, like its predecessors - a very readable if not somewhat predictable scifi story. Joshua James takes what is essentially a fascinating discovery from the past years - the presence of a "zombie fungus" in insects - and morphs it into an intergalactic threat to all living creatures. Even so, he finishes the series with no huge surprises, some feel-good but very obvious moments and a lot of, even too many, unanswered questions remaining.
Next time we meet, you won’t be coming for us. We’ll be coming for you.
For sure, the highlight of this book and how the trilogy as a whole developed was the focus on the "Little Creek Five". If you had told me that this group would make it as far as they did in the condition they all wound up in, I would have never believed you. Their progression from a group of misfits thrown into an impossible situation was obviously the most fun of this book, particularly as the battle scenes and other "attractive" aspects were held back in many ways. Sure there are some parts that just don't feel plausible, particularly the behavior of given parental units at the climax (no spoilers), but all's well that ends well, right? I think this was hurt in the big picture as, again, we're left with a very open sort of ending to the ramifications as a whole to how this scenario plays out.
Her insight was an anchor around her neck, pulling her down into the depths of the infinite darkness from which the hivemind had first spawned.
I truly enjoyed that we get some fairly good battle scenes in this book, though these could have really been turned into something much more breath-taking. The mechs are vastly underused and disappointingly muted in their abilities and even the massive Waterloo moments with Washington DC's verdant and historic lawns filled to overflowing with (insert your favorite name here) could have been awesome but alas… And again and again and again, we are left with so many unanswered questions that I - at least - thought would have been relevant including where was the President after we witnessed his earlier escape? Who made the deal with the enemy and what became of them as their, um, phone connection was severed? And so on.
They are fodder for the throng, the sustenance upon which their betters feed, little more than protein chains destined either to decay back into the earth without purpose, or to fuel the expansion of a species too vast for them to comprehend.
Basically, the series was a mixed bag for me. I don't regret reading the trilogy, no, but I do have regrets about how it was executed. Frustratingly, the editing mistakes that cropped up in Book 2 continued to drag things down in this book. There were just too many, as before, sometimes gaping plot holes and editing hiccups for my tastes. For example, at one point indicating that using the plane wasn't a good idea, but then Len is flying over them… and in a biplane? But later he flies off in Walk's doorless Cessna? Even I know those aren't the same kind of plane and I can't stand flying at all! Time is also very, let's say, fluid throughout as sometimes we speak of all of this happening within days, a few weeks or even months. It just comes across again as disappointing to me because the potential is there, I just wish more time had been taken in building this up into what I felt like it deserved. I think a lot of these issues will definitely become apparent if this gets made into an Audible version and a table read is required.
Never underestimate the power of an old person to misuse technology.
3 1/2 stars for the book and ultimately the series as a whole. This was what I'd call a good ending to an above-average trilogy that sadly missed its chance to be epic. "Judgment" is certainly - again, like its predecessors - a very readable if not somewhat predictable scifi story. Joshua James takes what is essentially a fascinating discovery from the past years - the presence of a "zombie fungus" in insects - and morphs it into an intergalactic threat to all living creatures. Even so, he finishes the series with no huge surprises, some feel-good but very obvious moments and a lot of, even too many, unanswered questions remaining.
Next time we meet, you won’t be coming for us. We’ll be coming for you.
For sure, the highlight of this book and how the trilogy as a whole developed was the focus on the "Little Creek Five". If you had told me that this group would make it as far as they did in the condition they all wound up in, I would have never believed you. Their progression from a group of misfits thrown into an impossible situation was obviously the most fun of this book, particularly as the battle scenes and other "attractive" aspects were held back in many ways. Sure there are some parts that just don't feel plausible, particularly the behavior of given parental units at the climax (no spoilers), but all's well that ends well, right? I think this was hurt in the big picture as, again, we're left with a very open sort of ending to the ramifications as a whole to how this scenario plays out.
Her insight was an anchor around her neck, pulling her down into the depths of the infinite darkness from which the hivemind had first spawned.
I truly enjoyed that we get some fairly good battle scenes in this book, though these could have really been turned into something much more breath-taking. The mechs are vastly underused and disappointingly muted in their abilities and even the massive Waterloo moments with Washington DC's verdant and historic lawns filled to overflowing with (insert your favorite name here) could have been awesome but alas… And again and again and again, we are left with so many unanswered questions that I - at least - thought would have been relevant including where was the President after we witnessed his earlier escape? Who made the deal with the enemy and what became of them as their, um, phone connection was severed? And so on.
They are fodder for the throng, the sustenance upon which their betters feed, little more than protein chains destined either to decay back into the earth without purpose, or to fuel the expansion of a species too vast for them to comprehend.
Basically, the series was a mixed bag for me. I don't regret reading the trilogy, no, but I do have regrets about how it was executed. Frustratingly, the editing mistakes that cropped up in Book 2 continued to drag things down in this book. There were just too many, as before, sometimes gaping plot holes and editing hiccups for my tastes. For example, at one point indicating that using the plane wasn't a good idea, but then Len is flying over them… and in a biplane? But later he flies off in Walk's doorless Cessna? Even I know those aren't the same kind of plane and I can't stand flying at all! Time is also very, let's say, fluid throughout as sometimes we speak of all of this happening within days, a few weeks or even months. It just comes across again as disappointing to me because the potential is there, I just wish more time had been taken in building this up into what I felt like it deserved. I think a lot of these issues will definitely become apparent if this gets made into an Audible version and a table read is required.
Never underestimate the power of an old person to misuse technology.
December 3, 2022
The World leaders proceed with the selection of a certain type of people meeting strict criteria to save the human species while sacrificing the millions left to fend for themselves. As one leader puts it, it is the law of the fittest. Easy to say when one is away from danger.
Len who was in a coma, has awaken, his wife Carla will join him and Pammy, Queen of the local hive of Flankers gets ready to face the ultimate battle in Washington D.C. Guppy is fitted with an Exosuit by his friend Cooper while Pammy Mae seeks to merge with another Clanker hive to increase their chances to win the upcoming battle. Vera assumes overall command of their limited but growing forces.
Their plan is bold but will it work against the master of the collective?
A cross between the movies :"V", Startrek's, the Borg, "Independence Day" and "Red Dawn" the author appears to be inspired by all four and adds his own personal touch resulting in a well written, power grabbing and treachery filled thriller that is the sequel in this series. 5 Stars
December 19, 2022
Pammie Mae first discovered that consuming a small amount of alien flesh, she was able to communicate with them! Changing their song to hers, she became the small group's queen allowing her to use the aliens (Clankers, they called them) to help them in the fight against the huge blob of jelly that was the Throng, the Hive-mind controlling the aliens. All my favorite characters are back for the ultimate fight - Vera, Guppie, Cooper, Emma and all the rest. They had to take the Earth back from the Throng and their puppets.
Great characters and an amazing storyline swept me up in the conflict. My shoulders jerking as I pummeled a Clanker, protecting Pammie and the rest. Will my help be enough or is it a futile gesture? I'm invested! I cry, cheer, laugh as the words fly across the page. I will help save the world. Or die trying! I love this series! It's a great read!
Great characters and an amazing storyline swept me up in the conflict. My shoulders jerking as I pummeled a Clanker, protecting Pammie and the rest. Will my help be enough or is it a futile gesture? I'm invested! I cry, cheer, laugh as the words fly across the page. I will help save the world. Or die trying! I love this series! It's a great read!
June 12, 2023
This book started quickly and pulled me right into the story. I really enjoyed the ordinary people who were faced with overwhelming forces out to annihilate them. It was do or die, and they had to cooperate to have any chance to survive. This story was easy to read with well-developed characters struggling through many twists and turns, some good, some not to much. I was so engrossed that it kept me up late, turning the pages to see what happened next, right up to the satisfying conclusion for the series. I have enjoyed over three dozen of Mr. James’ books, including some in which he partnered with Daniel Young, and have not been disappointed. I highly recommend all his/their books and am eager to read more.
September 24, 2023
What a trip! Honestly, what would you do if Earth was invaded by a strange species whose mission is to destroy the inhabitants of Earth? Not an easy situation to be in, that's for sure. But the Little Creek Five are joined by others in their quest to find the hive mastermind and destroy it, by any means possible. Pammy Mae is doing her utmost to control the Clankers from their area, but what about when they meet other Clankers, including a King? What a position for Pammy to be in. So, if you've followed along with the previous two books in this series, well, you are going to love this concluding book. And don't skimp on your reading. The final Epilogue is a wonderful surprise. Thank you, Joshua James, for a fantastic series to read.
April 22, 2025
Audiobook: I was entertained by this story. I haven't read the first two books in the series, and therefore, I felt like I missed a part of the story since this was the third book in the trilogy; however, I was able to enjoy this story. I appreciated the unity of the Little Creek Five as they were forged together by the cauldron of adversity which added to the authenticity of their actions. I got wrapped up into this almost non-stop action and followed all the twists and turns with alacrity. I enjoyed Phil Thron's narration, and I thought his performance enhanced the story's entertainment. I was given a copy of the audiobook. I volunteered, without financial gain, to post this review which reflected my honest opinions regarding this audiobook.
August 26, 2024
This book finishes the series and didn't leave much for a related series so I expect that'll be it. It ends reasonably well and I found I dragged my feet worried that it would end badly but it didn't. A lot of cliffhangers and good action to pull you through the book. Good read and it kind of makes you wonder if people in government now have some kind of brain fungus. The interesting thing about this series is that, unlike so many other invasion stories where the humans are completely outmatched, in this case, we have adequate weaponry, and our leadership effectively sells us out. Which is unfortunately very believable.
January 20, 2023
Color me impressed!
I'm an avid zombie apocalypse reader and grabbed this series to see if it was something I'd like to change things up. I LOVED this series and have a new respect and fear for aliens stopping in for a nice world domination attempt! To keep it short and sweet- buy this series because even if you don't think you'd like it, you'll learn so many survival tricks and tips in the event of a SHTF situation like this. Awesome read.
In an effort to not give anything away I will say that
I'm an avid zombie apocalypse reader and grabbed this series to see if it was something I'd like to change things up. I LOVED this series and have a new respect and fear for aliens stopping in for a nice world domination attempt! To keep it short and sweet- buy this series because even if you don't think you'd like it, you'll learn so many survival tricks and tips in the event of a SHTF situation like this. Awesome read.
In an effort to not give anything away I will say that
August 4, 2024
Lots of Characters and Getting to Know Them.
I really enjoyed how Mr James built his chapters around the main characters. I got to "know" them and wanted to know more about them.
I enjoy reading in series or by authors. "The Gray Man"; Vince Flynn's works; Lee Child; everything by Arthur C. Clark and Robert Heinlein.
This series was well put together and cohesive throughout the three books. I just wish that there had been more.
I really enjoyed how Mr James built his chapters around the main characters. I got to "know" them and wanted to know more about them.
I enjoy reading in series or by authors. "The Gray Man"; Vince Flynn's works; Lee Child; everything by Arthur C. Clark and Robert Heinlein.
This series was well put together and cohesive throughout the three books. I just wish that there had been more.
May 25, 2025
I can’t make you understand how much I enjoyed reading this entire trilogy. It was fast and easy to follow. I cared so much I almost felt like the ending was going to break my heart. Every and anything ended in my opinion the way it was supposed to. The evil was evil, the good was good, the women were strong, the men tried by and large to stay out of their way. I was very, very satisfied with the conclusion of this. Let me just put it this way. I will read this author again.
November 29, 2022
WOW! JUDGEMENT (Bk 3 of Heartland Aliens) is unbelievably awesome. I couldn’t put it down! It is one of the most perfect third volumes of a trilogy I have ever read - and I’ve read hundreds if not thousands.
Each complex character continues to be exquisitely drawn as well as true to their evolving personality. Each dialogue is realistic and meaningful. The plot makes sense and moves steadily forward despite no one having all the answers - again, realistic.
Exciting, action packed, full of understated love, loyalty, determination, and courage - oh, and, of course, aliens!
I reviewed an Advance Reader copy of this book.
Each complex character continues to be exquisitely drawn as well as true to their evolving personality. Each dialogue is realistic and meaningful. The plot makes sense and moves steadily forward despite no one having all the answers - again, realistic.
Exciting, action packed, full of understated love, loyalty, determination, and courage - oh, and, of course, aliens!
I reviewed an Advance Reader copy of this book.
November 30, 2022
Considering how things were going in the last book, I was thrilled to see how it would all work out. And I was entertained with all the action and craziness. Between the main characters and the aliens I was glued to the end to see how it would all end. Lots of fun and so entertaining to read. Had to see what each characters would end up doing and what choices they would face and make.
January 26, 2023
Great story
This is such a great story, with characters you really want to succeed. How would you react if a ravenous alien species suddenly arrived on earth? I like to think I'd be like Pammy, but, I would probably curl up in a little ball & wish it all away!
Strong characters, with flaws, humour & caring for each other makes this a great book.
This is such a great story, with characters you really want to succeed. How would you react if a ravenous alien species suddenly arrived on earth? I like to think I'd be like Pammy, but, I would probably curl up in a little ball & wish it all away!
Strong characters, with flaws, humour & caring for each other makes this a great book.
March 30, 2024
Five Stars
This was a totally new genre of book for me but I really enjoyed it. I have read all three books and really enjoyed them. Lots of action and also great sadness. I look forward to reading some more of Joshua James books. A big thank you to the author and from me a well deserved five stars ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
This was a totally new genre of book for me but I really enjoyed it. I have read all three books and really enjoyed them. Lots of action and also great sadness. I look forward to reading some more of Joshua James books. A big thank you to the author and from me a well deserved five stars ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
December 11, 2022
Great book.
This series has been a lot of fun to read. The characters are excellent. When hard times hit our characters dig in and make the best of it. They never stop pushing back against the aliens and searching for other survivors. Highly recommended.
This series has been a lot of fun to read. The characters are excellent. When hard times hit our characters dig in and make the best of it. They never stop pushing back against the aliens and searching for other survivors. Highly recommended.
January 25, 2023
YOU GOTTA READ THIS SERIES!
I could see Pamme, played in a film by Ruth from Ozark! If you understand that sentence,,you really NEED to read these books! Kudos to Joshua James. Compelling characters you can really root for! Interesting SF concepts and very original!
I could see Pamme, played in a film by Ruth from Ozark! If you understand that sentence,,you really NEED to read these books! Kudos to Joshua James. Compelling characters you can really root for! Interesting SF concepts and very original!
April 29, 2023
Wonderful
I loved this series. I got pulled in right away and loved the characters. The story was very good and felt real. I was so sorry that Danny died, but loved that she was alive somewhere with her mom. Now I want to read how the rest of y the five lived on.
I loved this series. I got pulled in right away and loved the characters. The story was very good and felt real. I was so sorry that Danny died, but loved that she was alive somewhere with her mom. Now I want to read how the rest of y the five lived on.
May 13, 2023
excellent battles
Really enjoyed this last book in the series. So glad that some of the relationship have a good ending even though others were tragically ended. Team man ship was crucial and appreciated the relationship that got put together
Really enjoyed this last book in the series. So glad that some of the relationship have a good ending even though others were tragically ended. Team man ship was crucial and appreciated the relationship that got put together
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April 8, 2024Pageturner!
Fast-paced drama made this and the first book really compulsive reading. Glad I bought them! The epilogue brought closure to all the main characters, which was really nice, despite a ruined Earth.
Fast-paced drama made this and the first book really compulsive reading. Glad I bought them! The epilogue brought closure to all the main characters, which was really nice, despite a ruined Earth.
January 7, 2023
The book is pretty interesting but also a bit predictable. The plot is interesting but a little bit exaggerated. Overall I enjoyed reading it but still think the first book in the series is the best
January 14, 2023
judgment : heartland aliens book 3
This was as good as the first 2 books. Lots of action lots lots of drama. A few plot twists but predictable.
This was as good as the first 2 books. Lots of action lots lots of drama. A few plot twists but predictable.
January 16, 2023
Wow!
What a great ending to this trilogy! Pammy has a very hard road to hoe but she does it with a heavy heart and an aching head. No spoilers so it’s time to quit.
What a great ending to this trilogy! Pammy has a very hard road to hoe but she does it with a heavy heart and an aching head. No spoilers so it’s time to quit.
January 29, 2024
Great series
Those book was the perfect ending to an amazing series. I really enjoyed the large variety of characters in this book .
Those book was the perfect ending to an amazing series. I really enjoyed the large variety of characters in this book .
February 28, 2024
Breathtaking
Great read, couldn’t put it down.
Very imaginative writing with great characters who drew me in to the story.
Will definitely continue to follow this Author.
Great read, couldn’t put it down.
Very imaginative writing with great characters who drew me in to the story.
Will definitely continue to follow this Author.
March 8, 2024
Worth reading
Really cool alien invasion story. I enjoyed this tale a lot. Good characters, bad situation. All in all, a well told tale.
Really cool alien invasion story. I enjoyed this tale a lot. Good characters, bad situation. All in all, a well told tale.
March 18, 2024
Something different and well done
That was book three, I'm pleasantly invested in this world now and the characters. Well done Joshua. I'm a fan.
That was book three, I'm pleasantly invested in this world now and the characters. Well done Joshua. I'm a fan.
May 28, 2024
Great Read
Love science fiction! This was a great 3 part saga of alien invasion and the resilience of other people left to stop the Clankers!
Love science fiction! This was a great 3 part saga of alien invasion and the resilience of other people left to stop the Clankers!
June 6, 2024
Great Series
I just like a good apocalyptic story with a happy ending.
This is THAT book series.
Read it and enjoy.
I just like a good apocalyptic story with a happy ending.
This is THAT book series.
Read it and enjoy.
December 30, 2024
4/5 Stars
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews