DEADWEIGHT
BOOK ONE
In a world silenced by plague and ruled by violence, a chance encounter sparks a fragile alliance among those who refuse to give up. As a small band of survivors journeys south in search of sanctuary, their hope is shattered by a brutal regime that thrives on fear and control.
Trapped within a fortress of despair, they face a chilling test of endurance, loyalty, and the will to resist. When escape feels impossible and choices come at devastating cost, each step becomes a fight not just for survival - but for the soul of what’s left of humanity.
In this haunting beginning to a gripping post-apocalyptic saga, courage is forged in captivity, and the seeds of rebellion take root in the unlikeliest of places.
“I’ve met worse.” She offered a half smile, lowering her head to the ground.
“What do you mean?”
“Luis is menacing and cold, but he’s not clever or calculating. Simple and emotionless, it proves more manageable, more susceptible to influence. Those empowered with intelligence, the adept manipulators, they demand a heightened level of manipulation in return. Relying solely on manipulation falls short, you have to craft an idea favourably aligned with their interests, persuade them it originated from their own mind. You tell them it was the best idea they have ever had, and then make sure that subtly over time, the idea works to their detriment. Convince them to create their own downfall,” Beth’s words were short and sharp, spiteful and full of hate, her breath caught in her throat as a torrent of vivid memories came rushing back, threatening to drown her, “Luis created his own downfall, Austin. He doesn’t need anyone’s help doing so.” She met his gaze with wide eyes, her face contorting with pain and anguish as she relived the past. He studied her closely, his brows furrowed in confusion as he struggled to comprehend the intensity of her reaction.
“You surprise me.” His lips twitched upwards, forming a small, sarcastic smile.
“Why?”
“I just—”
“Didn’t think I was clever?” Her lips stretched into a mischievous smirk, her eyes sparkling with amusement as she interrupted.
“Mmm,” he nodded in agreement, “I’m sorry I underestimated you.”
“Don’t be,” the sharp scent of adrenaline filled the air, the tension between them palpable as she challenged him with a playful smile, “I’ve been underestimated my whole life.”
“Well maybe this world is your chance to prove them wrong.” As he turned to face the fire, the flames danced and flickered in front of him, casting an orange glow on his features.
“I don’t need to prove them wrong,” she spoke with confidence as he looked back at her and she shrugged nonchalantly, “odds are they’re all dead, and I’m not. I’ve already won.”
Available on Amazon Kindle Unlimited.
Read the first chapter, on the house.