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Half Past Midnight
The Doomsday Clock gauges the threat of nuclear war. The closer the hands are to midnight, the more imminent the threat of nuclear war. But what happens after the hands reach midnight? Survivalist Leeland Dawcett finds out when he and his family are plunged into the nightmare of their country returned to a third-world state. No phones. No computers. No television. At first, Leeland thinks basic survival is the answer. Then he crosses the path of the wrong guy… someone who wants to do more than simply survive.Half Past Midnight is a Red Adept Select novel.
338 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 9, 2011
80 people are currently reading
856 people want to read
About the author
Jeff Brackett
13 books20 followersJeff Brackett is the author of the "Half Past Midnight" tales, the "Amber Payne" series, "Chucklers, Volume 1...", "Pangaea: Exiles", and a variety of other stories and novellas published in magazines and anthologies. After having lived almost his entire life in and around Houston, 2014 presented several life changes that brought him, his wife, and their dogs to Claremore, Oklahoma. There they found a nice little house with a much larger yard, and are all adjusting to the new lifestyle quite well. Jeff has even begun learning to garden.
His writing has won Honorable Mention in the action / adventure category of the "Golden Triangle Unpublished Writer's Contest", first place in the novel category of the "Bay Area Writers League Manuscript Competition", and was a finalist in the science fiction / fantasy / horror category of the "Houston Writer's Conference" manuscript contest.
His proudest achievement, though, is in having fooled his wife into marrying him more than thirty years ago and in helping her to raise three wonderful children. He is now a grandfather five times over.
And his gardening? Well, let's just say he still has a bit to learn in that area.
You can follow Jeff at...
www.patreon.com/jlbrackett
https://jlbrackett.com/
www.amazon.com/author/jeffbrackett
https://www.facebook.com/JeffBrackett...
https://www.facebook.com/JLBrackett.a...
His writing has won Honorable Mention in the action / adventure category of the "Golden Triangle Unpublished Writer's Contest", first place in the novel category of the "Bay Area Writers League Manuscript Competition", and was a finalist in the science fiction / fantasy / horror category of the "Houston Writer's Conference" manuscript contest.
His proudest achievement, though, is in having fooled his wife into marrying him more than thirty years ago and in helping her to raise three wonderful children. He is now a grandfather five times over.
And his gardening? Well, let's just say he still has a bit to learn in that area.
You can follow Jeff at...
www.patreon.com/jlbrackett
https://jlbrackett.com/
www.amazon.com/author/jeffbrackett
https://www.facebook.com/JeffBrackett...
https://www.facebook.com/JLBrackett.a...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
May 29, 2012
Leeland Dawcett is a machinist in his family-owned shop and is working a Saturday with his dad when it happens…Doomsday. Leeland is a survivalist and has done his best to be ready for this occasion. He needs to protect his family, pack up their supplies and get the heck out of Houston before the city gets a big heaping helping of nuclear bombs. So begins the story of a man and his family trying to survive the unthinkable.
I am one of the most stingy of people to give out a rating of 5. A book really has to be well-written or at least grab me and my imagination and not let go even when I’m done reading it. This story does both.
Well-written, smooth-flowing, excellent plot and compelling. I kept thinking throughout the story: Would I, could I be able to do that? What would I do here? What if…? The characters were compelling and you wanted them to survive. So many situations to survive and sometimes it was with skill, sometimes it was luck, many times it was plain hard work. Sometimes, they didn’t, so you mourned and moved on.
Leeland is a reluctant hero. Someone we root on when he’s scared out of his mind and someone we want to smack when he downplays his importance to everyone around him. He’s the Everyman/Everywoman forced into an uncommon situation and who we hope can survive and inspire others to do the same. Because the world isn’t the same anymore and we need everyone if we’re to survive and prosper.
My only complaint and it’s a small one, is I would’ve liked to known how the rest of the United States was fairing. Other than one news bulletin we don’t really learn anything about anyone else in the US or the world. The story centers around one small town, but it would’ve been nice to get occasional news about the rest of humanity.
*Red Adept provided a copy of this book to me for review. Please see disclaimer page on my blog.
I am one of the most stingy of people to give out a rating of 5. A book really has to be well-written or at least grab me and my imagination and not let go even when I’m done reading it. This story does both.
Well-written, smooth-flowing, excellent plot and compelling. I kept thinking throughout the story: Would I, could I be able to do that? What would I do here? What if…? The characters were compelling and you wanted them to survive. So many situations to survive and sometimes it was with skill, sometimes it was luck, many times it was plain hard work. Sometimes, they didn’t, so you mourned and moved on.
Leeland is a reluctant hero. Someone we root on when he’s scared out of his mind and someone we want to smack when he downplays his importance to everyone around him. He’s the Everyman/Everywoman forced into an uncommon situation and who we hope can survive and inspire others to do the same. Because the world isn’t the same anymore and we need everyone if we’re to survive and prosper.
My only complaint and it’s a small one, is I would’ve liked to known how the rest of the United States was fairing. Other than one news bulletin we don’t really learn anything about anyone else in the US or the world. The story centers around one small town, but it would’ve been nice to get occasional news about the rest of humanity.
*Red Adept provided a copy of this book to me for review. Please see disclaimer page on my blog.
February 10, 2013
For his first book this book was a none stop read for me. It is about a man and his family trying to survive after nuclear bombs are set off. It is truly a stunning read.
Ok I was rereading this book and I realized I did it's review no justice. I'm so sorry Mr. Brackett. This is one of the most addicting books that I have read. It is not only a very intense read at times but is also very visually stunning. Mr. Brackett manages to get to totally absorbed into this family's struggle to make it work after the unthinkable happens. And how they help a town to defined themselves against those that want to take what they have. I really don't want to give it away. My only regret that I have with this book is that I only have it on my Kindle. My son and I love this book, gonna have to go buy the real thing, cuz nothing is like having a book in your hands. Plus we wouldn't fight over who is reading it this time.
Ok I was rereading this book and I realized I did it's review no justice. I'm so sorry Mr. Brackett. This is one of the most addicting books that I have read. It is not only a very intense read at times but is also very visually stunning. Mr. Brackett manages to get to totally absorbed into this family's struggle to make it work after the unthinkable happens. And how they help a town to defined themselves against those that want to take what they have. I really don't want to give it away. My only regret that I have with this book is that I only have it on my Kindle. My son and I love this book, gonna have to go buy the real thing, cuz nothing is like having a book in your hands. Plus we wouldn't fight over who is reading it this time.
October 6, 2012
I really wanted to like this book. Really. But...
Flat characters. A survivalist nutjob who has been preparing for EXACTLY this scenario. Weapons...and weapons...and more weapons. And loads of food, supplies, and a vehicle old enough to survive an EMP. And of course he is an expert karateka.
The first hundred pages or so reads like it a survivalist manual. Or a guide for the militia. Or something.
If I had to read one more description of the weapons he had...
And why does the author write such things as, "she gave him the Scotch tape?" Tape only would have sufficed.
I knew I couldn't finish this drivel when I realized I didn't care if the characters lived or died.
Did I say flat, oh God, so flat characters???
I gave up before 200 pages. And I LOVE to read.
Only for hardcore survivalists/paranoiacs/budding militia members.
Flat characters. A survivalist nutjob who has been preparing for EXACTLY this scenario. Weapons...and weapons...and more weapons. And loads of food, supplies, and a vehicle old enough to survive an EMP. And of course he is an expert karateka.
The first hundred pages or so reads like it a survivalist manual. Or a guide for the militia. Or something.
If I had to read one more description of the weapons he had...
And why does the author write such things as, "she gave him the Scotch tape?" Tape only would have sufficed.
I knew I couldn't finish this drivel when I realized I didn't care if the characters lived or died.
Did I say flat, oh God, so flat characters???
I gave up before 200 pages. And I LOVE to read.
Only for hardcore survivalists/paranoiacs/budding militia members.
August 24, 2013
surviving in a small town in Texas after nuclear war destroys major cities. Not an original story concept, but well written and entertaining.
Good Reads Rating system
My rating system (*]star)
1* couldn't finish book
2* finished book, but didn't like it
3* a good read
4* a very good read often with a novel concept or unusual plot
5* an exceptionally good read, a prominent example of the genre
Good Reads Rating system
My rating system (*]star)
1* couldn't finish book
2* finished book, but didn't like it
3* a good read
4* a very good read often with a novel concept or unusual plot
5* an exceptionally good read, a prominent example of the genre
January 2, 2013
Nice read. A bit bloody, but post nuclear holocaust you would expect that. Hero vs nemesis story, with a supportive town. Lots of fighting, but also probably not that far off the mark from what might actually happen. Happenings over a three year span. I liked it.
June 5, 2016
This was one of the most believable post-apocalyptic stories that I have ever read. Well, with the exception of one or two little things. Lots of action, suspense, sadness.........kept me on the edge of my seat. A must read for those who like end of the world stories.
June 26, 2014
Jeff Brackett's Half Past Midnight, Narrated by Corey Snow is a great book. It keeped me rivited to my speakers throughout the entire story.
The story is in the same genre as Televisions "Revolution" except this book is much better; sticking to a single storyline and this story is complete.
The story starts quickly, and the characters are established with the depth needed according to the story line and then grow as the story moves forward.
In short, World War III starts and Leeland Dawsett is a survivalist that has prepared his family for the possibility of war. When he sees a second "sun" in the sky outside Houston he knows he only has a little time to move his family outside the target rich area of Houston, Texas.
As Leeland and his family move North to his Mother-in-laws home the outlaws are already out in force. This story moves from one man's effort to protect his family and moves forward to him becoming part of a community that is trying to survive and rebuild after Nuclear bombs and EMP blasts have left all modern electronics useless.
Nothing is boring in this story as it keeps you on the edge of your seat. The author's use of humor is balanced with the bloody violence of war. I was presently suprised at every aspect of this story. Truely gripping and realistic in my limited knowledge of the subject matter.
I highly recommend this audiobook .
PerryMartinBookReviews.wordpress.com also follow me @PerryBookReview or @Plmartin68 and read this and other reviews AudiobookMonthly.com
The story is in the same genre as Televisions "Revolution" except this book is much better; sticking to a single storyline and this story is complete.
The story starts quickly, and the characters are established with the depth needed according to the story line and then grow as the story moves forward.
In short, World War III starts and Leeland Dawsett is a survivalist that has prepared his family for the possibility of war. When he sees a second "sun" in the sky outside Houston he knows he only has a little time to move his family outside the target rich area of Houston, Texas.
As Leeland and his family move North to his Mother-in-laws home the outlaws are already out in force. This story moves from one man's effort to protect his family and moves forward to him becoming part of a community that is trying to survive and rebuild after Nuclear bombs and EMP blasts have left all modern electronics useless.
Nothing is boring in this story as it keeps you on the edge of your seat. The author's use of humor is balanced with the bloody violence of war. I was presently suprised at every aspect of this story. Truely gripping and realistic in my limited knowledge of the subject matter.
I highly recommend this audiobook .
PerryMartinBookReviews.wordpress.com also follow me @PerryBookReview or @Plmartin68 and read this and other reviews AudiobookMonthly.com
September 18, 2017
As end of the world tales go, this one was good and a little old-fashioned vs. the super flu flavor of the day: someone started pitching nuclear bombs. While we never learn who started pitching them, and it's probably irrelevant, it would be nice to know.
The author does a good job of breaking down the individual survival concerns and briefly touched on some of the larger concerns of the small Texas town; things started a little slow with the novel, but really picked up speed to where I couldn't put this one down and stayed up late reading it in order to finish.
From an improvement standpoint, and a native Texan, the author needs to pick a different survivalist location than approximately 200 miles north of Houston - that would put you just south of Dallas vs. somewhere safe from nuclear bombs.
I originally picked this book up for free during a Kindle promotion and, as I type this review, the Kindle version is $2.99 - you will certainly get more than $2.99 of value from this book, so if apocalyptic fiction is your thing I would recommend giving this one a try!
The author does a good job of breaking down the individual survival concerns and briefly touched on some of the larger concerns of the small Texas town; things started a little slow with the novel, but really picked up speed to where I couldn't put this one down and stayed up late reading it in order to finish.
From an improvement standpoint, and a native Texan, the author needs to pick a different survivalist location than approximately 200 miles north of Houston - that would put you just south of Dallas vs. somewhere safe from nuclear bombs.
I originally picked this book up for free during a Kindle promotion and, as I type this review, the Kindle version is $2.99 - you will certainly get more than $2.99 of value from this book, so if apocalyptic fiction is your thing I would recommend giving this one a try!
January 13, 2012
I wasn't sure that I was going to make it through this book. It has all of the things that I hate about Doomsday novels: the daughter's boyfriend that feels the need to ask for permission to date the daughter, the traditional conservative family structure, the unrealistic aspects like an EMP and a Nuclear fallout occurring at the same time and then still having hundreds of working vehicles, radios, and electricity. It's the same old idea that if you think ahead, love your family, and study martial arts that you will outlive any major disaster.
It also ends with a pregnancy as a sign of hope, which always irritates me. The main character's first kid is 16 when the book starts which makes her at least 19 when it ends. We don't know how old the main character is, but let's say he had his first kid at 20, that makes him and his wife 40ish. Now in today's society 40 isn't too old to have a child, but it's riskier. With no modern medicine he's likely to lose his wife or his child to childbirth. So he'll have a 20 year old daughter, a 12 year old son, and a newborn, and we're supposed to be happy about this? If the author wanted to show the next generation coming up, he should have written the pregnancy for someone else.
Having said all of those things though, I really liked this book in spite of myself. It also did a lot of things right. The women in this book are awesome. It was so nice to see some talented girls for a change and not just macho men. It had some really good humor too that caught me off guard. The whole second half really moved right along, and the war is fast paced and exciting. The main conflict between the antagonist and protagonist is really powerful and it raises a lot of questions about what it's like to be responsible for another person's death. It also has some really great examples of mercy and about how showing mercy sometimes pays off and sometimes backfires. I love those parts.
Overall, I'm giving it four stars because I'm glad that I read it. There were things that I didn't like, but at the end of the day, it's beautifully written, compelling, and factual enough to count. I would read this author again.
It also ends with a pregnancy as a sign of hope, which always irritates me. The main character's first kid is 16 when the book starts which makes her at least 19 when it ends. We don't know how old the main character is, but let's say he had his first kid at 20, that makes him and his wife 40ish. Now in today's society 40 isn't too old to have a child, but it's riskier. With no modern medicine he's likely to lose his wife or his child to childbirth. So he'll have a 20 year old daughter, a 12 year old son, and a newborn, and we're supposed to be happy about this? If the author wanted to show the next generation coming up, he should have written the pregnancy for someone else.
Having said all of those things though, I really liked this book in spite of myself. It also did a lot of things right. The women in this book are awesome. It was so nice to see some talented girls for a change and not just macho men. It had some really good humor too that caught me off guard. The whole second half really moved right along, and the war is fast paced and exciting. The main conflict between the antagonist and protagonist is really powerful and it raises a lot of questions about what it's like to be responsible for another person's death. It also has some really great examples of mercy and about how showing mercy sometimes pays off and sometimes backfires. I love those parts.
Overall, I'm giving it four stars because I'm glad that I read it. There were things that I didn't like, but at the end of the day, it's beautifully written, compelling, and factual enough to count. I would read this author again.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 9, 2012
For years, scientists have argued about the effects of a global nuclear war, the best guesses saying there would be many human survivors, but the impact on the world as we know it would be immense. Electromagnetic pulses from the bombs would render most electronic equipment useless. Fallout would have impacts on the food supply, both animals used as meat and crops.
In "Half Past Midnight," author Jeff Brackett has imagined what it would be like in this post-nuclear-war world and how families like his own would survive. His protagonist, Leeland Dawcett, has thought about this eventuality and is more prepared than most, but soon finds that you can’t plan for everything. As the Dawcett family adapts to the changing world, they discover what is important and what it takes to survive.
I found "Half Past Midnight" entertaining, not only as a vicarious adventure, but also as a thought exercise. How would I do in this situation? (Not very well.) How prepared would I be if it did happen? (Hardly prepared at all.) Books give us a chance to imagine experiences we’d like to have and those we’d rather not. I’ll pick option B this time.
**Originally written for "Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy. **
In "Half Past Midnight," author Jeff Brackett has imagined what it would be like in this post-nuclear-war world and how families like his own would survive. His protagonist, Leeland Dawcett, has thought about this eventuality and is more prepared than most, but soon finds that you can’t plan for everything. As the Dawcett family adapts to the changing world, they discover what is important and what it takes to survive.
I found "Half Past Midnight" entertaining, not only as a vicarious adventure, but also as a thought exercise. How would I do in this situation? (Not very well.) How prepared would I be if it did happen? (Hardly prepared at all.) Books give us a chance to imagine experiences we’d like to have and those we’d rather not. I’ll pick option B this time.
**Originally written for "Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy. **
November 22, 2014
Apocalyptic thriller, complete with chapter introductions courtesy of Nostradamus. Despite predictable plot (apocalypse brings out the best and worst in people) and flat characters (mostly thoroughly evil or somewhat perfect or a "redshirt" cannon fodder), the pace is relentless. Almost impossible to put down, but when away from the narration it is also difficult to pick back up ("Why am I reading this?").
April 12, 2018
Half Past Midnight
I definitely think that this book is totally on the mark! This is a real look at what may happen to our country one of these days, given the state of our world. I truly believe we will have to fight each other to hang on to our own survival and the essentials of life. I am grateful to the author for writing a real-life book and showing us what it will take to survive when we have to step back to 100 years into the past.
I definitely think that this book is totally on the mark! This is a real look at what may happen to our country one of these days, given the state of our world. I truly believe we will have to fight each other to hang on to our own survival and the essentials of life. I am grateful to the author for writing a real-life book and showing us what it will take to survive when we have to step back to 100 years into the past.
February 17, 2014
This wasn't a bad take on the nuclear version of the apocalypse, although the characters were a bit flat. It had some great information about how to survive a nuclear apocalypse though, and the part where the town gets involved and the descriptions if a large battle and guerrilla warfare are very good.
January 27, 2018
Great book
From the beginning couldn’t put it down,plenty of action,war,death with the some heartwarming family stuff thrown in....wonderful good read for all
From the beginning couldn’t put it down,plenty of action,war,death with the some heartwarming family stuff thrown in....wonderful good read for all
December 9, 2019
Excellent book, held my interest from page one through the final page.
If this is Jeff Brackett's first try, put me in line for his second, please.
If this is Jeff Brackett's first try, put me in line for his second, please.
March 27, 2019
When nuclear war goes from being an ever present threat to a devastating reality, survivalist Leeland Fawcett does whatever it takes to keep them safe. But he quickly realizes that they need to do more than just survive in this new world.
This is a good adventure story of the time after a nuclear war. It doesn't come across like a lot of survivalist stories which basically try to say if you stockpile a lot of guys, you will be able to fight the inevitable hordes of rampaging marauders. Now you do get some of that in this book but it is not all there is. The book starts off strong with some decent science about what could happen immediately after a nuclear war. In fact, science is shown throughout in small ways. One thing that has always bothered me about books in this genre is how they keep using gasoline for years after it was made. Gas breaks down and can not be used after awhile. There are additives that can be added to prolong the usefulness of gas which they do in this book. But there are still a lot of things that seem to be overlooked or at least downplayed. The book has a large die off of people from radiation poisoning but then overlooks the large number of people that would die from medicines no longer being made (diabetic medicines have very short shelf lives for instance). Even with stockpiling and people having some gardens and hunting, a town with a population of 5000 or more will deplete food resources fairly quickly. People in the story seemed to have a lot of luck finding electronics, vehicles, etc that survived the EMP blast that occurred with the nuclear blasts. They even managed to get some power going in a lot of places fairly easily. So while the book did touch of this matters, it seemed to be handled a little too easily. So for me, the book was a great adventure story but not necessarily that scientifically accurate.
This is a good adventure story of the time after a nuclear war. It doesn't come across like a lot of survivalist stories which basically try to say if you stockpile a lot of guys, you will be able to fight the inevitable hordes of rampaging marauders. Now you do get some of that in this book but it is not all there is. The book starts off strong with some decent science about what could happen immediately after a nuclear war. In fact, science is shown throughout in small ways. One thing that has always bothered me about books in this genre is how they keep using gasoline for years after it was made. Gas breaks down and can not be used after awhile. There are additives that can be added to prolong the usefulness of gas which they do in this book. But there are still a lot of things that seem to be overlooked or at least downplayed. The book has a large die off of people from radiation poisoning but then overlooks the large number of people that would die from medicines no longer being made (diabetic medicines have very short shelf lives for instance). Even with stockpiling and people having some gardens and hunting, a town with a population of 5000 or more will deplete food resources fairly quickly. People in the story seemed to have a lot of luck finding electronics, vehicles, etc that survived the EMP blast that occurred with the nuclear blasts. They even managed to get some power going in a lot of places fairly easily. So while the book did touch of this matters, it seemed to be handled a little too easily. So for me, the book was a great adventure story but not necessarily that scientifically accurate.
June 9, 2022
I like reading these survivalist books and seeing what this author has to say about the topic. Many of them are very similar, in that there are good people fighting off bad people. This one is pretty good, and I think you'll like it.
April 6, 2018
I usually enjoy reading dystopian fiction...just not this one.
July 21, 2022
A good story, but too much detail of weapons and self-defence methods.
November 10, 2022
I have read very little post apocalyptic literature. I enjoyed the realistic portrayal of nuclear fallout, attacks on our society and infrastructure and what it will take to survive.
June 25, 2015
ABR's original Half Past Midnight audiobook review and many others can be found at Audiobook Reviewer.
For a survivalist it is all about what to do right before the and immediately after a crisis – the safe house, the supplies, the family and the survival! Leland Dawcett was prepared but not really – how many people can prepare for nuclear bombs? Hoarding and making a plan is easy, it’s the dealing with death of loved ones and the horrors of what lies “out there.” What Leland had to discover himself was what did they do after things settled down? Once the fallout passed and they could resume living?
It promised to be a beautiful morning for Leland who worked closely with his dad in their family factory. No one else was at work but when the lights went out and Leland moved to the front where his dad was – he saw the cloud and discovered his father dead. Racing home on foot, his wife and children are already packing and ready to hit the road. Thus begins their adventure into the world of the unknown.
Leland, a martial arts expert and survival enthusiast meets up with his arch nemesis, Larry. Over the course of two years, we see Leland and his family surviving the fallout; begin anew establishing themselves in a new community and his stepping into a leadership role when Larry rears his ugly head again – along with thousands of military personnel he has conned.
This book is less about who did the bombing and why – it is focused on the aftermath – surviving, coming together with others and making a society that works. We are never told they why or who, instead we are guided to focus our attention on Larry, Leland and the growth of the community and its people.
Strongly written towards surviving as a society in a world where luxuries are limited and treasured. Technologically moving backwards where bartering is valuable and money means nothing. Friends and family are valued beyond all else.
Jeff Brackett does an excellent job of setting up the storyline and building his characters. No one is a military expert or has all the answers. Brackett demonstrates the necessity of a small society where respect gains friendships and protects your family.
Brackett develops this apocalyptic tale in a thorough and detailed fashion. His research appears to be flawless. While most would want to know “the who and why” of what happened to drive Leland and the world into survival mode, Brackett kept us focused on the truly important aspect of surviving an apocalypse. Knowing the details would have taken from the story he so carefully built and would not have brought anything to the story.
Brackett’s writing style is clear and concise with believable twists and turns. I hope he continues on his path to becoming an author because he has a hit here.
Corey Snow did an excellent job of narrating and keeping the interest flowing through his skillful rendering of Brackett’s story.
There were no production issues, it flowed flawlessly.
Audiobook provided for review by the narrator.
For a survivalist it is all about what to do right before the and immediately after a crisis – the safe house, the supplies, the family and the survival! Leland Dawcett was prepared but not really – how many people can prepare for nuclear bombs? Hoarding and making a plan is easy, it’s the dealing with death of loved ones and the horrors of what lies “out there.” What Leland had to discover himself was what did they do after things settled down? Once the fallout passed and they could resume living?
It promised to be a beautiful morning for Leland who worked closely with his dad in their family factory. No one else was at work but when the lights went out and Leland moved to the front where his dad was – he saw the cloud and discovered his father dead. Racing home on foot, his wife and children are already packing and ready to hit the road. Thus begins their adventure into the world of the unknown.
Leland, a martial arts expert and survival enthusiast meets up with his arch nemesis, Larry. Over the course of two years, we see Leland and his family surviving the fallout; begin anew establishing themselves in a new community and his stepping into a leadership role when Larry rears his ugly head again – along with thousands of military personnel he has conned.
This book is less about who did the bombing and why – it is focused on the aftermath – surviving, coming together with others and making a society that works. We are never told they why or who, instead we are guided to focus our attention on Larry, Leland and the growth of the community and its people.
Strongly written towards surviving as a society in a world where luxuries are limited and treasured. Technologically moving backwards where bartering is valuable and money means nothing. Friends and family are valued beyond all else.
Jeff Brackett does an excellent job of setting up the storyline and building his characters. No one is a military expert or has all the answers. Brackett demonstrates the necessity of a small society where respect gains friendships and protects your family.
Brackett develops this apocalyptic tale in a thorough and detailed fashion. His research appears to be flawless. While most would want to know “the who and why” of what happened to drive Leland and the world into survival mode, Brackett kept us focused on the truly important aspect of surviving an apocalypse. Knowing the details would have taken from the story he so carefully built and would not have brought anything to the story.
Brackett’s writing style is clear and concise with believable twists and turns. I hope he continues on his path to becoming an author because he has a hit here.
Corey Snow did an excellent job of narrating and keeping the interest flowing through his skillful rendering of Brackett’s story.
There were no production issues, it flowed flawlessly.
Audiobook provided for review by the narrator.
June 20, 2014
A killer thriller!
1st, let me say I read / listened to this book in audio format via audible.com. When I can, I prefer to listen to my books as narrators do a much better job than I can do at multiple voices & excitement in story along with accents & proper pronunciations. A narrator just makes a story so much more entertaining! This is 1 such story that was much better in audio vs eBook!
This is a edge of your seat thriller about nuclear war. How would we handle it? What could we do? Would we be able to survive? Are we prepared for a nuclear war? So much food for thought in this book. So many things I would never have even thought of. How far would we be willing to go to save our families & friends? Could we kill if we had to?
As I ventured thru this book, I was amazed at all the areas Jeff Brackett (author) had tackled. Jeff did a really great job on this book!
The narrator, Corey Snow dd a great job reading this book too! Corey did a fantastic job on all the voices & excitement in the story. Leeland, one of the main characters in this story was like a MacGyver type of man & a Sinsea. With all his survival skills, he was able to teach an entire town how to fight & protect themselves in warfare. As it turned out, it wasn't a moment too soon to learn either!
I highly recommend this book for everyone to read as it really is something we all need to consider.
1st, let me say I read / listened to this book in audio format via audible.com. When I can, I prefer to listen to my books as narrators do a much better job than I can do at multiple voices & excitement in story along with accents & proper pronunciations. A narrator just makes a story so much more entertaining! This is 1 such story that was much better in audio vs eBook!
This is a edge of your seat thriller about nuclear war. How would we handle it? What could we do? Would we be able to survive? Are we prepared for a nuclear war? So much food for thought in this book. So many things I would never have even thought of. How far would we be willing to go to save our families & friends? Could we kill if we had to?
As I ventured thru this book, I was amazed at all the areas Jeff Brackett (author) had tackled. Jeff did a really great job on this book!
The narrator, Corey Snow dd a great job reading this book too! Corey did a fantastic job on all the voices & excitement in the story. Leeland, one of the main characters in this story was like a MacGyver type of man & a Sinsea. With all his survival skills, he was able to teach an entire town how to fight & protect themselves in warfare. As it turned out, it wasn't a moment too soon to learn either!
I highly recommend this book for everyone to read as it really is something we all need to consider.
January 25, 2015
I was a little thrown off at the beginning of Half Past Midnight, mostly because I had no real foundation of who Leeland was, when or where I was, before the nukes went off. Still, I found I didn't mind. Brackett so grabbed me with the threat of nuclear war that I was more concerned about general survival than who I was dealing with. By the time things settled, that imbalance had been righted by Leeland's plans and abilities, and I found myself safe with him and his family.
It actually startled me a little that the bulk of this book was just about surviving in general. For much of the book, the environment and the situation was the main antagonist, and sometimes, that sort of foe makes me dislike a book. While I did feel a little afloat, I did find myself engrossed in how Lee and the people of Rejas rebuilt their lives.
Of course, that was when the proverbial dung hit the fan and the fairly minor skirmish at the beginning of the book turned full circle to ramp up the action, tension, and body count. Brackett does an amazing job gathering little threads of plot, details that seem trivial, to bring them into the end. It was extremely satisfying, to say the least.
It actually startled me a little that the bulk of this book was just about surviving in general. For much of the book, the environment and the situation was the main antagonist, and sometimes, that sort of foe makes me dislike a book. While I did feel a little afloat, I did find myself engrossed in how Lee and the people of Rejas rebuilt their lives.
Of course, that was when the proverbial dung hit the fan and the fairly minor skirmish at the beginning of the book turned full circle to ramp up the action, tension, and body count. Brackett does an amazing job gathering little threads of plot, details that seem trivial, to bring them into the end. It was extremely satisfying, to say the least.
April 25, 2015
The audio version of this book was fantastic! It was very realistic. I will listen to this again. It was very thought-provoking.
I liked this book from the very beginning. I was hooked right away. When Leeland hears what is happening he wastes no time in kicking his survival skills into high gear; giving his whole family a task to do in order to prepare for immediate evacuation from their home. This was clear throughout the whole story where he proves his leadership skills even when he has to let others do things their way.
I love how the author Jeff Brackett leads in each chapter with a Nastradamus Quatrain. It makes this book cohesive and reminds us that D-day is possible. It brings a certain reality to this book. A wake up call. What WOULD you do?
Corey Snow is a very gifted narrator. He's a natural. I've listened to other book narrated by him and all are excellent.
Review copy provided for review.
I liked this book from the very beginning. I was hooked right away. When Leeland hears what is happening he wastes no time in kicking his survival skills into high gear; giving his whole family a task to do in order to prepare for immediate evacuation from their home. This was clear throughout the whole story where he proves his leadership skills even when he has to let others do things their way.
I love how the author Jeff Brackett leads in each chapter with a Nastradamus Quatrain. It makes this book cohesive and reminds us that D-day is possible. It brings a certain reality to this book. A wake up call. What WOULD you do?
Corey Snow is a very gifted narrator. He's a natural. I've listened to other book narrated by him and all are excellent.
Review copy provided for review.
November 19, 2015
I found ‘Half Past Midnight’ to be one of the better self-published PA books that I’ve read. It’s well thought-out, well written and entertaining. The author takes the reader on a journey through this post-apocalyptic world and does a great job of describing what’s going on and how the town is surviving without getting into the weeds. The plot moved and kept my interest throughout. The only downside is that since the author doesn’t get into the weeds some of the battle scenes left me a bit wanting for details. Also the inclusion of the Nostradamus quotes makes him sound a bit nutty but I think they’re in there more to set up the chapters rather than espouse his prophecies. Overall it’s a page turner that I really enjoyed.
October 6, 2012
Another great post SHTF novel. This one uses atomic bombs instead of an EMP which is cool. Now you learn snout radiation and some worries that entails like what meat can you eat, safe drinking water, dig a trench, cover with soil, hope you can afford a bulldozer and backhoe at the time.
Seriously the characters are good. The family a bit too MacGyver-like, but not in a horrible way. I enjoyed the story, but when it came time to write the review I realize I probably will quickly forget the book, characters, and plot so that really doesn't mean horrible, but it doesn't mean greatness either.
You will be entertained, you will laugh, cry, think about your own reactions to situations, etc. That makes this a pretty good read. Which is what we all want in the end.
Seriously the characters are good. The family a bit too MacGyver-like, but not in a horrible way. I enjoyed the story, but when it came time to write the review I realize I probably will quickly forget the book, characters, and plot so that really doesn't mean horrible, but it doesn't mean greatness either.
You will be entertained, you will laugh, cry, think about your own reactions to situations, etc. That makes this a pretty good read. Which is what we all want in the end.
June 10, 2012
As this started off, I was afraid that it was going to be masturbatory "prepper" wank with a Mary Sue author-insert character who was master of the katana or whatever. However, I was happy to discover I was wrong as the story went on and turned into a sort of post-nuclear mishmash of Jericho, Alas Babylon, Swan Song, and Lucifer's Hammer.
I was actually surprised at how well-written it was for a first novel that was available as a free download from Amazon; no one will mistake it for high literature any time soon, but it ain't bad. Good enough for me to keep an eye out for more from the author.
I was actually surprised at how well-written it was for a first novel that was available as a free download from Amazon; no one will mistake it for high literature any time soon, but it ain't bad. Good enough for me to keep an eye out for more from the author.
May 15, 2013
I really loved this book. I am a huge fan of the new show Revolution. This book is a lot like the show. The characters trying to survive in a very hostile world. A crazy egomainical villian, and many many more similarities. The author made me care about his characters and what happened to them. I would have gladly paid for this book had I known how good it was!!!!!! I got it through one of the sites offering free ebooks. I hope Mr Brackett comes up with another gem like this, I will be first in line.
December 16, 2013
I finished One Second After by William Fortschen right before starting this book... the plot lines were eerily similar so I found myself constantly comparing the two books. One Second After wins hands-down. Fortschen was able to develop the characters and the plot in a way that made you feel a connection with the story. When a character died in One Second After, I cried. When a characet died in Half Past Midnight, I shrugged and moved onto the next paragraph. The writing was to superficial to really draw me into the story.
September 21, 2021
This was a dark story 9no pun intended.) But, I guess that would be the point, right? At times I found this book very compelling. But, at times I found it less so. I loved the overall plot. But I was left with questions. Why was Rejas the only inhabited town in the region? Where were the inhabitants of those towns? What was going on in the rest of the U.S.A.? How widespread was the damage? The answers were not necessary to advance the plot. But, it would have been interesting to see how Rejas was surviving compared to a town in Montana or Utah, or some other remote part of the country.
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