I love shtf/apocalyptic/end-of-the-world books. Be it zombies, aliens, global pandemics, war, or any other creative plot line.. I enjoy them. Traditionally, these types of books are written by men. Most of my favorite authors are men.
This series has great potential, but I think it missed a few necessary marks. The characters feel shallow. I didn’t feel like any of them had the depth required to get attached to them. The female characters are very similar and very right-leaning in their construction. The frequent internal monologues by the main character are monotonous, repetitive, and often straight from the Republican handbook of intolerance. Complaining about people (pre-disaster) receiving disability benefits or food assistance while praising the military. The younger characters are always eager to please their parents and aren’t ever showing the complexity of emotions you could expect to be reflected in their behavior. If ever there is a hiccup in their behavior, it’s brushed away in another rambling internal monologue of the main character. Even the family dog isn’t really likable… and I usually loooove even the dumbest dogs.
The narration could be another barrier to connecting to the characters. I’ve definitely heard much more character from other narrators. In scenes where nuance matters, the narrator reads in the same tone and inflection throughout. His voice is nice though.
I’ve listened to most of the series so far since all the titles are currently included free with the membership. I would’ve stopped after this title if it had cost money or credits.