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California Dreamin' #1
ARkStorm
California faces threats from earthquakes, droughts, and wildfires.
Yet, there is another cataclysm, enormous rivers of rain whose fury
have wreaked havoc and ruin in the past.
Scientists' fears have been realized. It's coming.
ARkStorm - The Other Big One.
You can't turn the pages fast enough in this standalone disaster thriller from international bestselling author, Bobby Akart, one of America's favorite storytellers, who delivers up-all-night thrillers to readers in 245 countries and territories worldwide.
" Mixing science and suspense is something Bobby Akart is a master of while writing character driven stories that will have you on the edge of your seat. "
California experiences atmospheric river storms every year, but the state hasn't experienced a catastrophe like this since the Great Storm of 1862 when intense rainstorms pounded the state unabated with little respite. Rivers became raging torrents that swept away entire communities, killing thousands. The state's Central Valley turned into a massive body of water 300-miles long and 60-miles wide.
It's happened before. It's happening again.
" Bobby Akart is a genius at creating disaster scenarios ."
Sammy Hendrick is preparing for a week of having her young nieces visit while her husband Tyler is immersed in preparations for the upcoming Rose Bowl when the rains begin.
Los Angeles County Deputy Fire Chief, Finn O'Brien, has seen the beautiful mountainous landscape of his neighborhood recently devastated by wildfire. He's concerned the mountains can't hold the rain and everything below it will be buried alive.
As this torpedo of moisture reaches the coast, it crashes into the mountains and is thrust upward. It kicks off torrents of rain and blinding blizzards.
Levees and dams are breached. Mudslides and avalanches are triggered.
Landscape and lives will be scarred forever. This is the Other Big One.
" Akart has proven, once again, why he's a fan favorite! "
This modern-day, fact-based novel will have you whispering just one more chapter until the end.
Yet, there is another cataclysm, enormous rivers of rain whose fury
have wreaked havoc and ruin in the past.
Scientists' fears have been realized. It's coming.
ARkStorm - The Other Big One.
You can't turn the pages fast enough in this standalone disaster thriller from international bestselling author, Bobby Akart, one of America's favorite storytellers, who delivers up-all-night thrillers to readers in 245 countries and territories worldwide.
" Mixing science and suspense is something Bobby Akart is a master of while writing character driven stories that will have you on the edge of your seat. "
California experiences atmospheric river storms every year, but the state hasn't experienced a catastrophe like this since the Great Storm of 1862 when intense rainstorms pounded the state unabated with little respite. Rivers became raging torrents that swept away entire communities, killing thousands. The state's Central Valley turned into a massive body of water 300-miles long and 60-miles wide.
It's happened before. It's happening again.
" Bobby Akart is a genius at creating disaster scenarios ."
Sammy Hendrick is preparing for a week of having her young nieces visit while her husband Tyler is immersed in preparations for the upcoming Rose Bowl when the rains begin.
Los Angeles County Deputy Fire Chief, Finn O'Brien, has seen the beautiful mountainous landscape of his neighborhood recently devastated by wildfire. He's concerned the mountains can't hold the rain and everything below it will be buried alive.
As this torpedo of moisture reaches the coast, it crashes into the mountains and is thrust upward. It kicks off torrents of rain and blinding blizzards.
Levees and dams are breached. Mudslides and avalanches are triggered.
Landscape and lives will be scarred forever. This is the Other Big One.
" Akart has proven, once again, why he's a fan favorite! "
This modern-day, fact-based novel will have you whispering just one more chapter until the end.
542 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 24, 2023
609 people are currently reading
121 people want to read
About the author
Bobby Akart
99 books406 followersInternational bestselling author, Bobby Akart, one of America's favorite storytellers, delivers up-all-night thrillers to readers in 245 countries and territories worldwide. He's achieved Amazon Top 5 Author status in both fiction and non-fiction genres, Amazon Kindle All Star and Top 50 Amazon Author (#35) and Top 25 Best Selling Book on Amazon Charts (Yellowstone #25).
"He's right up there with James Patterson, David Baldacci, Brad Thor and others that write thrillers. To me he actually surpasses them.”
He has written more than 80 novels in the disaster, survival, medical and political thriller genres.
"He's right up there with James Patterson, David Baldacci, Brad Thor and others that write thrillers. To me he actually surpasses them.”
He has written more than 80 novels in the disaster, survival, medical and political thriller genres.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews
dnf
September 5, 2024Dnf 23% on audio. I was bored. It felt like a science lesson.
May 11, 2023
Yes, it really could happen
I appreciate the level of detail and research put into Mr. Akart's writing. Reading this book in less than 48 hours put in mind that one cannot be too prepared for anything that Mother Nature or human ignorance can dish up. Please don't stop researching or writing, Mr. Akart... you will save lives.
I appreciate the level of detail and research put into Mr. Akart's writing. Reading this book in less than 48 hours put in mind that one cannot be too prepared for anything that Mother Nature or human ignorance can dish up. Please don't stop researching or writing, Mr. Akart... you will save lives.
February 27, 2024
A Rip Roaring Mud Soaked Scary Ride!
I have to admit when I started to read this I had no idea it was about a flood. I mean the words "flood" and "California" just do not go together. I knew it was a disaster of some sort but I was amazed to realize that it was a flood story - but maybe "flood" is not the correct word either. This is more akin to the horrible deluge that probably washed the legendary Atlantis away (if you believe in Atlantis) or maybe what people saw back in the Younger Dryas period with tons of ice melting at once. Its like having the whole ocean dump itself on you. And nothing can escape the destruction.
This is a real nail biter. The writing just swept me in and like the flood in the story it kept a firm hold. I got caught up with the characters too: childless couple of Sammy and Tyler who are watching the little nieces who are only six years old. Its New Year. The big football game is going to happen and Tyler is part of that. But then this storm sweeps in and the next moment houses are broken up and floating down these brand new rivers. And somehow, through all of this mess, they have to not only survive but find each other too. And their dogs Carly and Fenway.
There were some shocking unexpected scenes in here. Especially near the beginning. Once the disaster gets going you kind of expect stuff at the start there were two different scenes that totally caught me off guard.
Nothing can be as thrilling as the raw brutal power of mother nature let loose against the city of LA. Its pretty much non stop action. Life and death situations. And you wonder are they going to survive?
A very powerful scary story that will make you forget other stuff while you read this. The details are absolutely amazing. So vivid.
And I have a feeling that I may encounter Finnegan O'Brien in the next book in this series.
I have to admit when I started to read this I had no idea it was about a flood. I mean the words "flood" and "California" just do not go together. I knew it was a disaster of some sort but I was amazed to realize that it was a flood story - but maybe "flood" is not the correct word either. This is more akin to the horrible deluge that probably washed the legendary Atlantis away (if you believe in Atlantis) or maybe what people saw back in the Younger Dryas period with tons of ice melting at once. Its like having the whole ocean dump itself on you. And nothing can escape the destruction.
This is a real nail biter. The writing just swept me in and like the flood in the story it kept a firm hold. I got caught up with the characters too: childless couple of Sammy and Tyler who are watching the little nieces who are only six years old. Its New Year. The big football game is going to happen and Tyler is part of that. But then this storm sweeps in and the next moment houses are broken up and floating down these brand new rivers. And somehow, through all of this mess, they have to not only survive but find each other too. And their dogs Carly and Fenway.
There were some shocking unexpected scenes in here. Especially near the beginning. Once the disaster gets going you kind of expect stuff at the start there were two different scenes that totally caught me off guard.
Nothing can be as thrilling as the raw brutal power of mother nature let loose against the city of LA. Its pretty much non stop action. Life and death situations. And you wonder are they going to survive?
A very powerful scary story that will make you forget other stuff while you read this. The details are absolutely amazing. So vivid.
And I have a feeling that I may encounter Finnegan O'Brien in the next book in this series.
Read
April 9, 2024DNF.
I'm not going to rate this one because I feel it was a me problem. Everything is ridiculously over explained. Sure, the science explanations were great and always necessary in a good disaster novel, but it was the rest of the stuff that should just make the novel flow that's an issue. For example, twice I got a deep explanation on the history of the suburb the main couple lived in - pointless to the story, ruined the natural flow of reading and had me wanting to DNF from the beginning (I should've listened to my gut instinct). This continued multiple times and ensured that anything actually exciting happening took a long time to get to.
I'm a Disaster Fiction lover, so I know I'm extra critical, but I really don't think I'll ever pick up one of this authors' books again if this is his style of writing. This is such a shame because his books have fantastic synopses, just poor execution.
I'm not going to rate this one because I feel it was a me problem. Everything is ridiculously over explained. Sure, the science explanations were great and always necessary in a good disaster novel, but it was the rest of the stuff that should just make the novel flow that's an issue. For example, twice I got a deep explanation on the history of the suburb the main couple lived in - pointless to the story, ruined the natural flow of reading and had me wanting to DNF from the beginning (I should've listened to my gut instinct). This continued multiple times and ensured that anything actually exciting happening took a long time to get to.
I'm a Disaster Fiction lover, so I know I'm extra critical, but I really don't think I'll ever pick up one of this authors' books again if this is his style of writing. This is such a shame because his books have fantastic synopses, just poor execution.
July 5, 2023
Story very plausible. Fast read. gripping action.
May 1, 2023
If Bobby Akart ever decided to write screenplays for the movies, he'd be happy and rich as Croesus. His novels read like a Roland Emmerich disaster movie, which is to say, of the highest quality.
ARkstorm takes you on the wildest ride of your life using weather scenarios ripped from the headlines. Whether or not you live in California, everyone knows what last winter was like.
The loving family of Tyler and Sammie Hendrick and their doggies Carly and Fenway are nestled in the Crescenta Valley in the canyon community of La Canãda, California.
Tyler works as the lead athletic trainer for USC despite having graduated from Penn State. Sammie works in a Law office doing mergers and Acquisitions. They have decided to put off having kids until they are more settled.
The Hendrick's family, who would like to see kids a lot sooner, conspire with a relative and talk Tyler and Sammie into taking care of their two nieces for a couple of weeks.
USC is about to face Penn State in the Rose Bowl on New Year's Day and Tyler has mixed feelings about the situation. His star quarterback, Malachi, has been on the injured list with a hamstring injury. Tyler always thought he'd be working for Penn State but is determined to have his Trojan's win the game.
Back at the USGS weather service, three scientists are looking at the incoming atmospheric rivers over Southern California. Beckki LaMarre and Tomas Stoppkotte are working with Gregory Entremonte.
When Entremonte plugs in realtime data into his forecast model, he is horrified to see an ARkstorm event. An atmospheric river of a thousand years, replete with dam breaking floods, mountain eroding rains and hurricane force winds.
The Governor of California is so worried about losing tourism dollars that he all but orders the three scientists to give him a favorable forecast for New Year's Day. They argue, Entremonte urging them to warn the public, but they release a skewed forecast anyway.
LaMarre follows Entremonte home after seeing him download his data to a flash drive. When he tells her he is going to send it to the press, Beckki casually picks up a marble statue and clobbers him. Discovering that Entremonte is dead, she cleans up, confiscates his computer and flash drive and disposes of his body.
Horror really sets in during the Rose Bowl, when people in the upper stands see the mud and water racing down the Arroyo Seco Flood Control Channel over the 210 freeway straight at the venerable old stadium.
Because California's dams and levees were built out of earth with only cement support, most of them by this time are in dire need of repair. The Devil's Gate Dam at the head of Crescenta canyon had just burst after the spillways couldn't relieve enough pressure.
What will become of Sammie and the children? Will Tyler make it out of the maelstrom at the Rose Bowl? Will they ever see each other again? Will California survive 50 or 60 inches of rain in two days? Read ARkstorm and find out for yourself.
ARkstorm takes you on the wildest ride of your life using weather scenarios ripped from the headlines. Whether or not you live in California, everyone knows what last winter was like.
The loving family of Tyler and Sammie Hendrick and their doggies Carly and Fenway are nestled in the Crescenta Valley in the canyon community of La Canãda, California.
Tyler works as the lead athletic trainer for USC despite having graduated from Penn State. Sammie works in a Law office doing mergers and Acquisitions. They have decided to put off having kids until they are more settled.
The Hendrick's family, who would like to see kids a lot sooner, conspire with a relative and talk Tyler and Sammie into taking care of their two nieces for a couple of weeks.
USC is about to face Penn State in the Rose Bowl on New Year's Day and Tyler has mixed feelings about the situation. His star quarterback, Malachi, has been on the injured list with a hamstring injury. Tyler always thought he'd be working for Penn State but is determined to have his Trojan's win the game.
Back at the USGS weather service, three scientists are looking at the incoming atmospheric rivers over Southern California. Beckki LaMarre and Tomas Stoppkotte are working with Gregory Entremonte.
When Entremonte plugs in realtime data into his forecast model, he is horrified to see an ARkstorm event. An atmospheric river of a thousand years, replete with dam breaking floods, mountain eroding rains and hurricane force winds.
The Governor of California is so worried about losing tourism dollars that he all but orders the three scientists to give him a favorable forecast for New Year's Day. They argue, Entremonte urging them to warn the public, but they release a skewed forecast anyway.
LaMarre follows Entremonte home after seeing him download his data to a flash drive. When he tells her he is going to send it to the press, Beckki casually picks up a marble statue and clobbers him. Discovering that Entremonte is dead, she cleans up, confiscates his computer and flash drive and disposes of his body.
Horror really sets in during the Rose Bowl, when people in the upper stands see the mud and water racing down the Arroyo Seco Flood Control Channel over the 210 freeway straight at the venerable old stadium.
Because California's dams and levees were built out of earth with only cement support, most of them by this time are in dire need of repair. The Devil's Gate Dam at the head of Crescenta canyon had just burst after the spillways couldn't relieve enough pressure.
What will become of Sammie and the children? Will Tyler make it out of the maelstrom at the Rose Bowl? Will they ever see each other again? Will California survive 50 or 60 inches of rain in two days? Read ARkstorm and find out for yourself.
March 23, 2025
Great read. Love the characters, but was disappointed a bad character did not get their comeuppance.
July 6, 2025
Floods are Dangerous!
I kept worrying about where I lived. This book made me feel like I was at the Rose Bowl. Bears are dangerous! Read the book.
I kept worrying about where I lived. This book made me feel like I was at the Rose Bowl. Bears are dangerous! Read the book.
September 6, 2023
ARkStorm - a-once-in-a-1000-year storm of Atmospheric Rivers
Atmospheric rivers are long, narrow regions of the atmosphere that transport condensed water vapor from tropical and subtropical areas to our west. This wide swath of water vapor, ranging from two hundred fifty to nearly four hundred miles wide, follows normal upper-level weather patterns across the Pacific to the nation’s West Coast. When the water vapor in the form of an atmospheric river makes landfall in California, it cools and is released in the form of rain or snow. When dozens of these storms pile up back-to-back in a once-in-a-thousand-year mega storm dumping hundreds of inches of rain and hurricane-force winds onto California from San Francisco to San Diego, a mega-disaster is sure to follow.
Tyler and Samantha Hendrick have been roped into caring for their young nieces over the Holliday weeks while their parents flew to Hawaii for a much needed vacation getaway. Sophie will be 7 in January and Olivia (Livvy) just turned 6. For another couple weeks, they are both 6 year olds. Tyler is head athletic trainer for the USC football team and Sammy is a lawyer focusing on mergers & acquisitions. While Tyler prepares the team for the upcoming Rose Bowl where they will battle his Alma Mater - Penn State. No pressure! Sammy will be taking a couple weeks off to entertain the girls, if only the constant rain would stop for a while. The atmospheric rivers bringing tons of condensed water vapor from the tropics and dumping it on Los Angeles for a week now, and everyone is tired of the highly unusual precipitation for this part of the state. But Sammy would get by, how hard could it be?
Great characters and a storyline only the master of meteorological mayhem could produce! Could this be another harbinger of catastrophe to come? This is a great read!
Atmospheric rivers are long, narrow regions of the atmosphere that transport condensed water vapor from tropical and subtropical areas to our west. This wide swath of water vapor, ranging from two hundred fifty to nearly four hundred miles wide, follows normal upper-level weather patterns across the Pacific to the nation’s West Coast. When the water vapor in the form of an atmospheric river makes landfall in California, it cools and is released in the form of rain or snow. When dozens of these storms pile up back-to-back in a once-in-a-thousand-year mega storm dumping hundreds of inches of rain and hurricane-force winds onto California from San Francisco to San Diego, a mega-disaster is sure to follow.
Tyler and Samantha Hendrick have been roped into caring for their young nieces over the Holliday weeks while their parents flew to Hawaii for a much needed vacation getaway. Sophie will be 7 in January and Olivia (Livvy) just turned 6. For another couple weeks, they are both 6 year olds. Tyler is head athletic trainer for the USC football team and Sammy is a lawyer focusing on mergers & acquisitions. While Tyler prepares the team for the upcoming Rose Bowl where they will battle his Alma Mater - Penn State. No pressure! Sammy will be taking a couple weeks off to entertain the girls, if only the constant rain would stop for a while. The atmospheric rivers bringing tons of condensed water vapor from the tropics and dumping it on Los Angeles for a week now, and everyone is tired of the highly unusual precipitation for this part of the state. But Sammy would get by, how hard could it be?
Great characters and a storyline only the master of meteorological mayhem could produce! Could this be another harbinger of catastrophe to come? This is a great read!
August 20, 2023
First, very sorry for the author and his wife about the deaths of their much-loved dogs. Our non-human family mean a lot. I had heard a bit about atmospheric rivers, so this was a chance to read more about them. Generally, the editing of this story was good and the writing very descriptive. Most of the action and plot flowed well, but some of the escapes from certain death started to take on the scent of a bit unbelievable. I did like Sammy and Tyler and really liked Finn who was a rock star. I had a bit of an issue with three scientists who knew how bad the impending storm would be, but deliberately chose to not reveal this so that everyone would see the impact of climate change. One of them was willing to commit murder to conceal this. Please... a storm of this magnitude would have everyone talking about climate change so no need to allow so many people to die unwarned. This felt like a bit of a coloration that climate scientists are a untrustworthy lot whose agenda means more than providing a service. I just don't buy that. Otherwise, this was a good, solid standalone book.
April 27, 2023
Another page-turner by Bobby Akart
Excellent depiction of the devastation possible by an ARkStorm. This book was fast-paced with excellent character development. The twists and turns in this story keep you entertained while cheering for the characters to have a happy ending. 5 ⭐️
Excellent depiction of the devastation possible by an ARkStorm. This book was fast-paced with excellent character development. The twists and turns in this story keep you entertained while cheering for the characters to have a happy ending. 5 ⭐️
April 30, 2023
As a maestro plays his music in concert, Bobby Akart writes his stories…and Oh what stories they are! I have read every book by Bobby…some twice and have even listened to most of them on audible. Yes, you could say I am a big fan of his. Every time I finish a story I’ll say…”OMG! That was the best one so far!” I don’t think I’ll be saying it about the next book though. I find it very hard to believe that Bobby Akart will be able to top his newest stand-alone novel ARkStorm.
ARkStorm takes the reader from the calm before the storm and not just throws you into the turbulence, but slams you face down…hitting with both barrels right in the emotional feels! In this action packed, terror driven, emotionally draining story, you become part of the scene! You feel every poignant detail as people fight for their survival against Mother Nature who is at her very worst, deadly and destructive self.
People on the west coast are always looking out for “The Big one” but never give “The Other Big One” a thought. The one as in this storyline comes sneaking in from the water and brings such devastation, chaos, destruction and death. The one that innocently began as a rainstorm and ended with LA being obliterated from the map!
Please don’t get me wrong when I say this because I honestly and truly did love this book but this is the darkest book that Bobby Akart has ever written. The descriptive details of the calamity and deaths were the things nightmares are made of! I totally devoured it in one sitting, staying up until 3 in the morning because I couldn’t and wouldn’t put it down until I found who was left alive at the end. Because I’ve got to tell you, I was really holding my breath waiting to find out as many of the characters are questionable and you never find out who walks away until that last page is turned!
I have to say Bobby, you have written many books in your career, and I have enjoyed every single one of them. But this one…this one will stay with me for a very long time. Thank you for the most entertaining story I have read in a very long time…
ARkStorm takes the reader from the calm before the storm and not just throws you into the turbulence, but slams you face down…hitting with both barrels right in the emotional feels! In this action packed, terror driven, emotionally draining story, you become part of the scene! You feel every poignant detail as people fight for their survival against Mother Nature who is at her very worst, deadly and destructive self.
People on the west coast are always looking out for “The Big one” but never give “The Other Big One” a thought. The one as in this storyline comes sneaking in from the water and brings such devastation, chaos, destruction and death. The one that innocently began as a rainstorm and ended with LA being obliterated from the map!
Please don’t get me wrong when I say this because I honestly and truly did love this book but this is the darkest book that Bobby Akart has ever written. The descriptive details of the calamity and deaths were the things nightmares are made of! I totally devoured it in one sitting, staying up until 3 in the morning because I couldn’t and wouldn’t put it down until I found who was left alive at the end. Because I’ve got to tell you, I was really holding my breath waiting to find out as many of the characters are questionable and you never find out who walks away until that last page is turned!
I have to say Bobby, you have written many books in your career, and I have enjoyed every single one of them. But this one…this one will stay with me for a very long time. Thank you for the most entertaining story I have read in a very long time…
August 23, 2023
ARkStorm: Disaster Thriller
Bobby Akart
“ARkStorm” stands for “Atmospheric River 1,000 years storm,” or, the type of storm that would occur roughly every thousand years.
I pre-ordered this e-book and audiobook. As soon as it was published, I eagerly began to read. Bobby Akart is a master at disaster thrillers. Usually, he writes a series rather than one stand alone tale. I am not sure if author Bobby Akart is a prophet or a psychic. ARkSTORM was published April 27, 2023. Today is August 21, 2023, and California is facing a storm of cyclone proportions. Hurricane Hilary is dumping rain and high winds on southern California. Warnings of flood are broadcast across the airwaves. Sounds familiar to those of us that have read ASkSTORM.
In 1862 rainstorms battered California; the central part of the state became a vast body of water approximately 300 miles in length and 60 miles wide. Communities were swept away, and thousands were killed.
California is used to earthquakes, wildfires, and drought but they are not prepared for an ARkStorm.
Sammy and Tyler live in the Crescenta Valley in La Canada, California. As the lead athletic trainer for USC Tyler is preparing for the Rose Bowl and Sammie is a lawyer. Their nieces are visiting when it begins to rain.
Three scientists with the USGS weather service realize an ARkStorm is coming. (An atmospheric river of a thousand years, replete with dam breaking floods, mountain eroding rains and hurricane force winds) The scientists determine it is in the best interest of the planet to keep the knowledge to themselves.
Deputy Fire Chief, Finn O’Brien is concerned. His neighborhood has been ravaged by wildfires; the mountains can’t hold that much rain, everything below it will be buried alive. He was right to be concerned. The dams and levees can’t hold up under the pressure. Who can survive the disaster.
Bobby Akart
“ARkStorm” stands for “Atmospheric River 1,000 years storm,” or, the type of storm that would occur roughly every thousand years.
I pre-ordered this e-book and audiobook. As soon as it was published, I eagerly began to read. Bobby Akart is a master at disaster thrillers. Usually, he writes a series rather than one stand alone tale. I am not sure if author Bobby Akart is a prophet or a psychic. ARkSTORM was published April 27, 2023. Today is August 21, 2023, and California is facing a storm of cyclone proportions. Hurricane Hilary is dumping rain and high winds on southern California. Warnings of flood are broadcast across the airwaves. Sounds familiar to those of us that have read ASkSTORM.
In 1862 rainstorms battered California; the central part of the state became a vast body of water approximately 300 miles in length and 60 miles wide. Communities were swept away, and thousands were killed.
California is used to earthquakes, wildfires, and drought but they are not prepared for an ARkStorm.
Sammy and Tyler live in the Crescenta Valley in La Canada, California. As the lead athletic trainer for USC Tyler is preparing for the Rose Bowl and Sammie is a lawyer. Their nieces are visiting when it begins to rain.
Three scientists with the USGS weather service realize an ARkStorm is coming. (An atmospheric river of a thousand years, replete with dam breaking floods, mountain eroding rains and hurricane force winds) The scientists determine it is in the best interest of the planet to keep the knowledge to themselves.
Deputy Fire Chief, Finn O’Brien is concerned. His neighborhood has been ravaged by wildfires; the mountains can’t hold that much rain, everything below it will be buried alive. He was right to be concerned. The dams and levees can’t hold up under the pressure. Who can survive the disaster.
September 16, 2025
Very suspenseful
In enjoying the new series, I have many compliments and one tiny complaint.
First, the characters are engaging and unforgettable. From the doggies to the kiddies to the adults, their endurance (with moments of despair) and the sheer luck were a wonderful combo.
Next, the details of the events as they happened were visceral. I found myself moving parts of my body as I read one detail after another. Akart is very talented in that area!
Finally, I loved the wrap-up. Sometimes it feels like the author is just tying up loose ends. This really did feel like a great summary of what followed.
As for my complaint, well, maybe it's addressed in the next book of the series, but I really wanted to know what happened to that *insert adjective here* woman. (I can't describe her without spoiling, but you'll know her when you see her.) However, I won't let that woman take away from the story reading.
So, limited cursing and an ending worth my time added to the excellent things about this book (as listed above) mean I'm still gonna give it 5 stars.
In enjoying the new series, I have many compliments and one tiny complaint.
First, the characters are engaging and unforgettable. From the doggies to the kiddies to the adults, their endurance (with moments of despair) and the sheer luck were a wonderful combo.
Next, the details of the events as they happened were visceral. I found myself moving parts of my body as I read one detail after another. Akart is very talented in that area!
Finally, I loved the wrap-up. Sometimes it feels like the author is just tying up loose ends. This really did feel like a great summary of what followed.
As for my complaint, well, maybe it's addressed in the next book of the series, but I really wanted to know what happened to that *insert adjective here* woman. (I can't describe her without spoiling, but you'll know her when you see her.) However, I won't let that woman take away from the story reading.
So, limited cursing and an ending worth my time added to the excellent things about this book (as listed above) mean I'm still gonna give it 5 stars.
June 7, 2023
There is no doubt that the author is one of the best if not the best one in writing about disaster situations and this book shows that. Basically it explains just what an arkstorm is, how it forms and how it could happen. In the book it hits California with massive amounts of rain and wind.
It also shows how if t here is a huge amount of raid this will lead to problems it itself but also in things like mudslides and the destruction of dams and the possible deaths of millions of people.
There are specific people covered and what they are going through as the storm hits.
It also notes the loss of electricity and what that will lead to and how lack of attention to dam repair contributes to the destruction. It also shows how this is all related to climate change.
I consider all the books of his that I have read to be really, really good and very important in warning people what will happen if things don't change.
It also shows how if t here is a huge amount of raid this will lead to problems it itself but also in things like mudslides and the destruction of dams and the possible deaths of millions of people.
There are specific people covered and what they are going through as the storm hits.
It also notes the loss of electricity and what that will lead to and how lack of attention to dam repair contributes to the destruction. It also shows how this is all related to climate change.
I consider all the books of his that I have read to be really, really good and very important in warning people what will happen if things don't change.
November 28, 2023
Poor California!
Having lived in La/Laguna for over 32 years, this story truly pulled at my heart. I remember flooding in Huntington Beach, where people got around in rowboats, kayaks and dinghies. But this was sooo much worse. I've been through tons of earthquakes, but the storm was far worse. It's true the soil is problematic in many parts of California. I met my first soil engineer on a beach. Seems that building on sand, even with good LA weather, can be quite complicated.
My heart was in my throat throughout this book. So glad Finn, Sammy, Tyler and their little nieces survived.
The devastation in lives and property, was beyond belief. Even if they had received some kind of warning, it would have been nearly impossible to move millions of people to safety. Now that my heartbeat is approaching normal, I think I will go find the next book in one of the author's many outstanding series.
Having lived in La/Laguna for over 32 years, this story truly pulled at my heart. I remember flooding in Huntington Beach, where people got around in rowboats, kayaks and dinghies. But this was sooo much worse. I've been through tons of earthquakes, but the storm was far worse. It's true the soil is problematic in many parts of California. I met my first soil engineer on a beach. Seems that building on sand, even with good LA weather, can be quite complicated.
My heart was in my throat throughout this book. So glad Finn, Sammy, Tyler and their little nieces survived.
The devastation in lives and property, was beyond belief. Even if they had received some kind of warning, it would have been nearly impossible to move millions of people to safety. Now that my heartbeat is approaching normal, I think I will go find the next book in one of the author's many outstanding series.
July 18, 2023
Not your best
I've read about a dozen books by Mr Akart including New Madrid, Yellowstone series, Texas series and some others. Arkstorm is at the bottom of my list. I realize its a novel, but the story is basically about one couple in this disaster!...... They are both SUPERHEROS....A bit over the top unrea!istic.
But the main thing I did not like is all the vulgar language in this book. Maybe I missed it in the other books but seems like the language has gotten more vulgar and there is absolutely no reason for it. It adds nothing to the story and for me it is distracting.
I've cheated into a couple other series including Nuclear Winter and the profanity seems to be increasing. I won't read more of this author unless that trend changes........YES, he writes great stories, but hundreds of others do also.....without the profanity.
I've read about a dozen books by Mr Akart including New Madrid, Yellowstone series, Texas series and some others. Arkstorm is at the bottom of my list. I realize its a novel, but the story is basically about one couple in this disaster!...... They are both SUPERHEROS....A bit over the top unrea!istic.
But the main thing I did not like is all the vulgar language in this book. Maybe I missed it in the other books but seems like the language has gotten more vulgar and there is absolutely no reason for it. It adds nothing to the story and for me it is distracting.
I've cheated into a couple other series including Nuclear Winter and the profanity seems to be increasing. I won't read more of this author unless that trend changes........YES, he writes great stories, but hundreds of others do also.....without the profanity.
November 2, 2023
A very interesting read as there could be a atmospheric river of water going into California. These do occur every so often. I can easily see where there would be that exceptional Pineapple Express that could drown California. I enjoyed this aspect of the book and feel it couldn't happen to a nicer group of environmentally friendly people and their state.
The problem always arises in these sorts of stories is that someone becomes a superman and despite 10's of thousands of people dying in the immediate area, the family while apart and suffering different sort of apocalyptic events, somehow come together and even the pets find them. For this type of story to really work, people need to die. It happens in real life and this book should reflect that.
It was a fast, easy read and any large words were explained by the author.
The problem always arises in these sorts of stories is that someone becomes a superman and despite 10's of thousands of people dying in the immediate area, the family while apart and suffering different sort of apocalyptic events, somehow come together and even the pets find them. For this type of story to really work, people need to die. It happens in real life and this book should reflect that.
It was a fast, easy read and any large words were explained by the author.
January 12, 2025
I really liked the setup for this, and I found the scientific aspects fascinating. The main reason this wasn't a stronger rating for me was because of the writing style. This is mostly told rather than shown, and some of the characters were so distasteful that I just didn't want to spend any time with them. I liked the main couple and their story, but again, the telling style was annoying, and it definitely weakened the story for me. One of my main issues:
I don't know if I'll check out any other Akart books, even though he writes in a genre I generally enjoy.
I don't know if I'll check out any other Akart books, even though he writes in a genre I generally enjoy.
May 28, 2024
It could be Four Stars...
...but it kind of fell apart at the end, in my opinion. I liked the lead up very much with the science of ARk storms as well as the character development. It is very well written and quite interesting. I even enjoyed (?) When the storm hit, taking everyone buy surprise...
But it just went on too long. There is just so many times one can read about someone -- and in this case, everyone -- buried in mud. I had had enough at about 75% and simply took to skimming. That is, reading the lead sentence of most paragraphs after that. If the characters were still in mud or a building was falling on them, I moved on.
And then the mad hungry bears showed up...
But it was a terrific beginning and a happy ending.
Sincerely,
...but it kind of fell apart at the end, in my opinion. I liked the lead up very much with the science of ARk storms as well as the character development. It is very well written and quite interesting. I even enjoyed (?) When the storm hit, taking everyone buy surprise...
But it just went on too long. There is just so many times one can read about someone -- and in this case, everyone -- buried in mud. I had had enough at about 75% and simply took to skimming. That is, reading the lead sentence of most paragraphs after that. If the characters were still in mud or a building was falling on them, I moved on.
And then the mad hungry bears showed up...
But it was a terrific beginning and a happy ending.
Sincerely,
August 4, 2023
This would make a great disaster movie! Disaster movies are my favourite movie genre, so this is a compliment.
I have no doubt visual readers will find this an edge of your seat read. However I'm not a visual reader, I need an emotional connection to really become immersed in a story. I just felt that everything happened a little too fast and as a result the characters didn't feel developed enough for me to really become invested.
If you are a visual reader and are into disaster stories, then I would highly recommend this. If it ever gets turned into a movie I will be the first in line to watch it!
I have no doubt visual readers will find this an edge of your seat read. However I'm not a visual reader, I need an emotional connection to really become immersed in a story. I just felt that everything happened a little too fast and as a result the characters didn't feel developed enough for me to really become invested.
If you are a visual reader and are into disaster stories, then I would highly recommend this. If it ever gets turned into a movie I will be the first in line to watch it!
October 24, 2023
This was my first book by this author. I can see why so many enjoy his books. It was a great thriller, just like the Irwin Allen disaster movies I used to see growing up. This thriller is based on fact and did actually happen. California had a somewhat similar heavy rain period earlier this year. The author keeps the action fast and furious while throwing curves along the way. He doesn't shy away from the human element either. I loved seeing the evil folks get their just deserts. I'm looking forward to the next two books, Fractured and Mammoth. Narration took a bit to get used to as the narrator's voice is rather gravelly.
June 11, 2023
I have loved all of the authors books that I've read and I have many of his on my TBR. He does a great job of twisting fact and fiction. He adds just enough facts to make his fictional scenarios incredibly real and possible. It is clear that he puts a lot of research into his books. I am used to longer stories from him split into multiple books and I definitely feel this was a missed opportunity. There are many spots that seemed a bit rushed. It was like a roller coaster with all loops and no recovery. I would definitely recommend this book.
December 13, 2023
A cataclysmic weather phenomenon hits California and causes unprecedented flooding, mudslides and sinkholes. Thousands die or disappear in the events. One family survives through it all. This book was well written and the author is knowledgeable about these weather events. However, I felt there were way too many incidents of people vs forces of nature. These characters swam through mud and debris-filled raging rivers. It felt like a little too much. However, there is a lot to this story. I recommend it.
April 29, 2023
ARkStorm: A Disaster Thriller
Bobby Akart is one of the most REAL writers I've ever read. He has written multiple series, all of which contain real world information and facts regarding the historical records, studies and other research sources. The ARkStorm of 1861-2 is the potential disaster focused on in this book.
Bobby's writing is so visceral. It contains the perfect balance of fact, fiction and fun! I always read anything with his name on it!!
Bobby Akart is one of the most REAL writers I've ever read. He has written multiple series, all of which contain real world information and facts regarding the historical records, studies and other research sources. The ARkStorm of 1861-2 is the potential disaster focused on in this book.
Bobby's writing is so visceral. It contains the perfect balance of fact, fiction and fun! I always read anything with his name on it!!
May 8, 2023
Excellence thriller by Bobby Akart.
Superbowl coming up in CA, what could go wrong. Rain and even snow in the mountains but supposed to clear up for the game. Except these storms are once in a lifetime storms. Three young meteorologist found out what would happen and the one guy was murdered because he wanted to inform the weather station what they found, but the gal who murdered him wanted to prove that climate change was responsible so millions died and CA split in two.
Superbowl coming up in CA, what could go wrong. Rain and even snow in the mountains but supposed to clear up for the game. Except these storms are once in a lifetime storms. Three young meteorologist found out what would happen and the one guy was murdered because he wanted to inform the weather station what they found, but the gal who murdered him wanted to prove that climate change was responsible so millions died and CA split in two.
May 11, 2023
It had potential to be a good disaster story, but didn’t live up to that potential. It started out strong with a disaster that, from what I understand, is fairly realistic and well researched. Unfortunately the writing held it back.
That said, if someone were to make this into a movie, I’d probably watch it, and if it had a good producer/director and someone to go over the writing then it could even be pretty good.
That said, if someone were to make this into a movie, I’d probably watch it, and if it had a good producer/director and someone to go over the writing then it could even be pretty good.
June 11, 2023
Horrible. Propaganda isn't entertainment.
Wow, I didn't get into like chapter 3 before I started getting beat over the head with pretty extreme climate change and political propaganda. That isn't entertainment, in fact it has been used by many to control others. No thank you, and I hope this helps some who would prefer their fiction to be fiction and not some weird platform for someone's political views.
Wow, I didn't get into like chapter 3 before I started getting beat over the head with pretty extreme climate change and political propaganda. That isn't entertainment, in fact it has been used by many to control others. No thank you, and I hope this helps some who would prefer their fiction to be fiction and not some weird platform for someone's political views.
July 14, 2023
Living through a California Disaster
Well-written and terrifying. It’s clear that California continues adjusting to the rigors of creation and in that struggle, there are dangerous elements everywhere. This is true even today, where nature throws serious bouts of destruction. Fires, landslides, earthquakes shaping and reshaping the land. Humanity can only scramble to stay alive…..in a land where even the very air breathed becomes a threat.
A good read….
Well-written and terrifying. It’s clear that California continues adjusting to the rigors of creation and in that struggle, there are dangerous elements everywhere. This is true even today, where nature throws serious bouts of destruction. Fires, landslides, earthquakes shaping and reshaping the land. Humanity can only scramble to stay alive…..in a land where even the very air breathed becomes a threat.
A good read….
July 21, 2023
I loved ARKStorm.
We follow two of the main characters Finn and Sammy and we hope they get themselves and their two charges to survival and meet up with Sammys Tyler and their puppies. What they all get caught up in is the stuff that nightmares are made off. It’s a very fast moving no holds barred story that could be true or kept in a book to read for relaxation. There is no doubt that I recommend anyone to read it. It’s a brilliant book.
We follow two of the main characters Finn and Sammy and we hope they get themselves and their two charges to survival and meet up with Sammys Tyler and their puppies. What they all get caught up in is the stuff that nightmares are made off. It’s a very fast moving no holds barred story that could be true or kept in a book to read for relaxation. There is no doubt that I recommend anyone to read it. It’s a brilliant book.
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