What do you think?
Rate this book
After #3
Milepost 291
When massive solar flares wipe out the technological infrastructure and kills billions, Rachel Wheeler sets out across the Appalachian Mountain wilderness in search of her notorious grandfather’s survival compound.
When Rachel is separated from her traveling companions, she is captured by Zapheads, violent mutants who are gathering in packs and collecting dead bodies while mimicking human behaviors. Then Rachel undergoes startling changes herself, as her friends are hunted by a rogue military platoon that wants to impose its own law and order in the world of After.
Can Rachel and her fellow survivors make the dangerous journey to Milepost 291 and evade the Zapheads long enough to form a new society and preserve the human race?
When Rachel is separated from her traveling companions, she is captured by Zapheads, violent mutants who are gathering in packs and collecting dead bodies while mimicking human behaviors. Then Rachel undergoes startling changes herself, as her friends are hunted by a rogue military platoon that wants to impose its own law and order in the world of After.
Can Rachel and her fellow survivors make the dangerous journey to Milepost 291 and evade the Zapheads long enough to form a new society and preserve the human race?
231 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 31, 2014
207 people are currently reading
290 people want to read
About the author
Scott Nicholson
211 books767 followersWith more than 800,000 books sold worldwide, Scott Nicholson is an international bestselling thriller writer. He won the Writers of the Future Award in 1999 and was a Stoker Award finalist in 2003. His Fear series was published by Amazon's Thomas & Mercer imprint and 47North released the supernatural thriller McFALL.
He's also published a number of supernatural, paranormal, and fantasy books and stories, including the AFTER, NEXT, and ARIZE post-apocalyptic series, as well as children's books, comics, and screenplays. His 2006 novel The Home is in development as a feature film.
He's also published a number of supernatural, paranormal, and fantasy books and stories, including the AFTER, NEXT, and ARIZE post-apocalyptic series, as well as children's books, comics, and screenplays. His 2006 novel The Home is in development as a feature film.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
April 27, 2014
I received a gift copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Expect the unexpected, and prepare to have your socks blown off when you start reading this book. It literally crackles with an electrifying originality, as the story unfolds at breakneck speed. The thrills are heart-pounding, the chills heart-stopping, and there are twists here that will give you whiplash on this little ride down a road less traveled. You don't know where it's heading, but it's well worth the trip.
Highly recommended!
Expect the unexpected, and prepare to have your socks blown off when you start reading this book. It literally crackles with an electrifying originality, as the story unfolds at breakneck speed. The thrills are heart-pounding, the chills heart-stopping, and there are twists here that will give you whiplash on this little ride down a road less traveled. You don't know where it's heading, but it's well worth the trip.
Highly recommended!
April 3, 2014
AFTER: Milepost 291, Book 3. Started March 31, Completed April 3, 2014
Over a year ago I was looking for a good post-apocalyptic book. I'd read so many zombie books and with The Walking Dead, I was getting a bit tired of the zombie genre. I don't really care for the nuclear destruction with no plants or animals left....so I came across AFTER. I read it along with the 2nd After book and the prequel, After: First Light. Incidentally, if you have not read the prequel you may want to do that, it's free right now at amazon.com.
The book starts out with our protagonist, Rachel Wheeler, limping along. In book 2 she got in a fight with some domesticated dogs, gone wild! One bit her and now she is suffering a bite that could be life threatening. This is After, not Before so she can't just jump in her car and swing by an Urgent Care center. What is to become of her. Needless to say this is resolved in a way I did not see coming. There is some good writing going on with this story line. Sometimes I want the author to get on with it, but when the getting there is a good part of the story, then I'd say that's good writing.
The other story lines are of Franklyn Wheeler and DeVontray. All are one way or another trying to find Rachel and she is trying to find them. No one is at the 291 Fort, just trying to get back there.
For the 3rd book in the series, I would have liked to have seen fewer encounters and more getting to the 291 Milepost. I feel like the story is being stretched out like the old doll, Stretch Armstrong!! Those dolls would break if stretched too long. If it were not for Mr. Nicholson's fine writing style which holds my interests most of the time, I would swear off this series. But since he (the author) builds the characters in a positive way, for now it holds my interest.
I know many of us are tired of series with more novels than we wish to invest in. But this is not a new thing, is it. In the late 1800s, Sir H. Rider Haggard wrote over 25 books in the Alan Quartermain series and aren't those considered classics? There is the Lord of the Rings books, written many years ago. 4 books with the Hobbit. So my point is, I think in the “Get it now” world, a series of books is something we just don't want to wait for. It's not new, authors have been doing it for years!
I am enjoying the AFTER series. The situation is unique for a book. I like what Scott wrote about sun flares in the first book. He gave us references we could follow to see that these could increase and where would we be then. I love the way he has let his imagination run in these books. He has enriched the characters persona by the situations they have found themselves in. (Not unlike learning to sing, but using a sophisticated piece of music). The development of not only the characters, but the overall story will bring me back to probably as many more novels that happen to show up in this series.
Hooray for Mr. Nicholson and his most recent release of AFTER #3: Milepost 291.
These books do not stand alone. You need to read all the books.
If you have not picked up any of the After books and decide to read all 4, you are in store of a fun ride through some wonderful story telling!
Over a year ago I was looking for a good post-apocalyptic book. I'd read so many zombie books and with The Walking Dead, I was getting a bit tired of the zombie genre. I don't really care for the nuclear destruction with no plants or animals left....so I came across AFTER. I read it along with the 2nd After book and the prequel, After: First Light. Incidentally, if you have not read the prequel you may want to do that, it's free right now at amazon.com.
The book starts out with our protagonist, Rachel Wheeler, limping along. In book 2 she got in a fight with some domesticated dogs, gone wild! One bit her and now she is suffering a bite that could be life threatening. This is After, not Before so she can't just jump in her car and swing by an Urgent Care center. What is to become of her. Needless to say this is resolved in a way I did not see coming. There is some good writing going on with this story line. Sometimes I want the author to get on with it, but when the getting there is a good part of the story, then I'd say that's good writing.
The other story lines are of Franklyn Wheeler and DeVontray. All are one way or another trying to find Rachel and she is trying to find them. No one is at the 291 Fort, just trying to get back there.
For the 3rd book in the series, I would have liked to have seen fewer encounters and more getting to the 291 Milepost. I feel like the story is being stretched out like the old doll, Stretch Armstrong!! Those dolls would break if stretched too long. If it were not for Mr. Nicholson's fine writing style which holds my interests most of the time, I would swear off this series. But since he (the author) builds the characters in a positive way, for now it holds my interest.
I know many of us are tired of series with more novels than we wish to invest in. But this is not a new thing, is it. In the late 1800s, Sir H. Rider Haggard wrote over 25 books in the Alan Quartermain series and aren't those considered classics? There is the Lord of the Rings books, written many years ago. 4 books with the Hobbit. So my point is, I think in the “Get it now” world, a series of books is something we just don't want to wait for. It's not new, authors have been doing it for years!
I am enjoying the AFTER series. The situation is unique for a book. I like what Scott wrote about sun flares in the first book. He gave us references we could follow to see that these could increase and where would we be then. I love the way he has let his imagination run in these books. He has enriched the characters persona by the situations they have found themselves in. (Not unlike learning to sing, but using a sophisticated piece of music). The development of not only the characters, but the overall story will bring me back to probably as many more novels that happen to show up in this series.
Hooray for Mr. Nicholson and his most recent release of AFTER #3: Milepost 291.
These books do not stand alone. You need to read all the books.
If you have not picked up any of the After books and decide to read all 4, you are in store of a fun ride through some wonderful story telling!
April 1, 2014
AFTER: MILEPOST 291 has been worth the wait.
The story begins where the last installment ends where the Zaphead dog had bitten Rachel. DeVontay takes a more active role, Wheeler and Jorge are way off compass, and Campbell and the Professor are still in the farmhouse. The story begins to take a strange turn with the Zapheads, one that sparks the imagination, and Sarge and his boys show incredible cruelty. This installment moves the series forward in bounds and is a quick read, so be prepared to sit up all night. The story resolves the most of the current conflict and doesn’t leave you with one of those hateful cliffhangers, but the overall climax is yet to be seen. If you can visualize a thousand people standing a hundred yards outside your bedroom window, you can imagine the terror the characters are experiencing as the inexorable tide of Zapheads shuffle along. Are they becoming aware or are they being controlled? Are they the next evolutionary step eliminating humans?
I must say that while I hate ‘series’, this one has me hooked. It is an imaginative tale and off the beaten path of the usual fare of zombie stories and an interesting concept to follow. Well worth the read.
I received a complimentary copy for review. Had Nicholson not moved this story along in this installment, I would have given it a stinging review, but I am a happy reader and looking forward to seeing the evolution of the AFTER world.
The story begins where the last installment ends where the Zaphead dog had bitten Rachel. DeVontay takes a more active role, Wheeler and Jorge are way off compass, and Campbell and the Professor are still in the farmhouse. The story begins to take a strange turn with the Zapheads, one that sparks the imagination, and Sarge and his boys show incredible cruelty. This installment moves the series forward in bounds and is a quick read, so be prepared to sit up all night. The story resolves the most of the current conflict and doesn’t leave you with one of those hateful cliffhangers, but the overall climax is yet to be seen. If you can visualize a thousand people standing a hundred yards outside your bedroom window, you can imagine the terror the characters are experiencing as the inexorable tide of Zapheads shuffle along. Are they becoming aware or are they being controlled? Are they the next evolutionary step eliminating humans?
I must say that while I hate ‘series’, this one has me hooked. It is an imaginative tale and off the beaten path of the usual fare of zombie stories and an interesting concept to follow. Well worth the read.
I received a complimentary copy for review. Had Nicholson not moved this story along in this installment, I would have given it a stinging review, but I am a happy reader and looking forward to seeing the evolution of the AFTER world.
September 20, 2017
Before you pick up this title, please note it is the third book in a series. You will need to read After: The Shock (AFTER post-apocalyptic series, Book 1) first which, as I type this review, is free in the Amazon Kindle store.
Scott Nicholson writes a pretty good story no matter what genre he's focusing in on with a particular book, and I like this continuation of the apocalyptic tale. As usual, he does a great job of getting you into the heads of his characters, and your emotions will rise and fall (as well as your pulse at times) as you feel like you are part of the action of the story.
If you like Stephen King's works, or if you liked the first two books of the series, you will like what Nicholson has done with this story.
Scott Nicholson writes a pretty good story no matter what genre he's focusing in on with a particular book, and I like this continuation of the apocalyptic tale. As usual, he does a great job of getting you into the heads of his characters, and your emotions will rise and fall (as well as your pulse at times) as you feel like you are part of the action of the story.
If you like Stephen King's works, or if you liked the first two books of the series, you will like what Nicholson has done with this story.
July 10, 2018
an icy winter’s day in southwest Michigan, Grace Abbot wakes up as the survivor of a car crash. But she’s left with a traumatic brain injury and a terrifying reality: she can’t remember anything.
Left in the care of her sister, Grace returns to the family’s secluded old farmhouse to recover—but within an hour of her return, the police arrive. Grace’s boyfriend has been m
Left in the care of her sister, Grace returns to the family’s secluded old farmhouse to recover—but within an hour of her return, the police arrive. Grace’s boyfriend has been m
May 6, 2019
Great story
Very interesting glad I continued after the dismal first book. This book made it worth while. It introduced a different view of the Zapheads and look g forward to see where the author takes it.
Very interesting glad I continued after the dismal first book. This book made it worth while. It introduced a different view of the Zapheads and look g forward to see where the author takes it.
August 7, 2020
different from other zombie stories
I gave it 3 stars instead of 4 because it was short band the book ended in the middle of something Devontay (one if the main characters) was doing.
Overall, it's a good read. It's just a bit too short for my liking.
I gave it 3 stars instead of 4 because it was short band the book ended in the middle of something Devontay (one if the main characters) was doing.
Overall, it's a good read. It's just a bit too short for my liking.
September 17, 2020
People change like the seasons
I like this series a lot. It's well written and easy to read, but the characters are interesting. The horror and terror are there, but the journey moves on. I have recommended this book to friends.
I like this series a lot. It's well written and easy to read, but the characters are interesting. The horror and terror are there, but the journey moves on. I have recommended this book to friends.
March 26, 2024
Another excellent installment to a solid series. It held my interest throughout without any book hopping and nicely keep the story and world unfolding. There was a well-timed and executed ending and setting things up well for the next book.
May 30, 2017
Was good enough that I will likely read the next one. Had thought I'd be done with the series but I do want to see what happens with Rachel after her unexpected but not surprising change!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 9, 2018
Very easy reading.
December 27, 2018
goood
August 1, 2019
Thanks so much
Good
Rugcfbyui I yuyrr I have a meeting at I can get a ride with you are you going for a run for
Good
Rugcfbyui I yuyrr I have a meeting at I can get a ride with you are you going for a run for
July 16, 2019
This entire series is a wonderful, fast-paced and totally engaging tale! Love the whole thing! Can't stop turning page after page!💜
July 21, 2014
The review to the whole serie: After (read so far books 0-3).
I rather dislike zombie books, I don't want to read anything that defies laws of physics. I love to read about things that may happen, EMP is one of them. The series started OK, then it had a bad turn (in my point of view) with those mindless killers, but later on it got better and better.
I still have the feeling that the world has a great potential which wasn't fully utilized, but well, I can't write books, so I have to stick with what authors imagine :) Books 2 and 3 were way better than book 1. Overall I highly recommend the book to post-apocalyptic fans, it should be liked by as well as zombie fans (there are some elements) and zombie haters (for example: me).
Read so far books 0-3 and subscribed to get a news about following parts. It is a good series happening in a very interesting world and place. Thanks, Scott.
I rather dislike zombie books, I don't want to read anything that defies laws of physics. I love to read about things that may happen, EMP is one of them. The series started OK, then it had a bad turn (in my point of view) with those mindless killers, but later on it got better and better.
I still have the feeling that the world has a great potential which wasn't fully utilized, but well, I can't write books, so I have to stick with what authors imagine :) Books 2 and 3 were way better than book 1. Overall I highly recommend the book to post-apocalyptic fans, it should be liked by as well as zombie fans (there are some elements) and zombie haters (for example: me).
Read so far books 0-3 and subscribed to get a news about following parts. It is a good series happening in a very interesting world and place. Thanks, Scott.
September 9, 2014
First, let me say that this book does well as a stand-alone-book. I know this because I was not aware it was part of such a big series until AFTER (see what I did there?) I read it. I do plan to catch up on all that I've missed with the other books.
This is a dystopian story full of thrills and chills, but I was most impressed with the characters. Franklin, Devontay, and Rachel (and a few more I wish we could have gotten to know better) give the plot depth and courage while others make you want to either hide under a bed or blow their heads off. The urgency is almost tangible. The strength is something the reader can feel. Nicholson is a talented writer and I know I will be reading more of his work in the future.
This is a dystopian story full of thrills and chills, but I was most impressed with the characters. Franklin, Devontay, and Rachel (and a few more I wish we could have gotten to know better) give the plot depth and courage while others make you want to either hide under a bed or blow their heads off. The urgency is almost tangible. The strength is something the reader can feel. Nicholson is a talented writer and I know I will be reading more of his work in the future.
July 16, 2016
I really liked this book. I'm not normally a reader of zombie books, but I've liked this series so far. Nicholson keeps it interesting with a kind of twist on the average zombie book, and has interesting characters and plot. I've come to care about the characters, and was bummed about "Rachel's" situation. This saga has kept me intrigued and engaged, and I can't wait to see what happens next. I listened to the Audible version of this book and have enjoyed the narration by Kevin Clay. His reading sounds effortless and comfortable, and he gives a unique voice to each character. Overall, if you like zombie books, I would highly suggest this series, and even if you don't tend toward zombie fiction, don't write off this book - give a shot - you might be surprised that you like it.
May 16, 2016
** I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review **Rachel is on trouble, she has been hurt, she has lost her traveling companions, and is dying from an infection in her leg...she is found at the last minute by some old acquaintances...and ends up at the zaphead house! She is so sick by now she doesn't realize where she is really at...and a miracle happens..she is saved...but there is a price to pay! In the meantime Devontrey comes across some not so nice survivors and finds Steven...but they are in a very dangerous situation... They eventually find Rachel..but she is different...will she ever be the same again?
GOOD STORY!! I NEED TO GO ON TO THE NEXT ONE ASAP!!!
GOOD STORY!! I NEED TO GO ON TO THE NEXT ONE ASAP!!!
October 13, 2015
After: Milepost 291 - book 3
Always hard to put down the book. I have learned not to grow attached to any one character, you never know what will happen to them. There is more mystery added into this installment with what is going on with the Zappers. I know I am half way done with the series but I am having a hard time figuring how this is going to wrap up in only three more books.
Always hard to put down the book. I have learned not to grow attached to any one character, you never know what will happen to them. There is more mystery added into this installment with what is going on with the Zappers. I know I am half way done with the series but I am having a hard time figuring how this is going to wrap up in only three more books.
May 23, 2014
A huge solar flare storm has literally fried Earth; it's technology and most of it's people. Leaving a group of survivors battling zapheads and other dangers on their way to Wheelerville - Milepost 291.
In book #3 the "nature" of the zapheads seems to be changing and so is Rachel.
This is quickly becoming one of my fave post-apocalyptic series. Cannot wait for After 4: Whiteout.
In book #3 the "nature" of the zapheads seems to be changing and so is Rachel.
This is quickly becoming one of my fave post-apocalyptic series. Cannot wait for After 4: Whiteout.
October 29, 2016
Gee, I think I'm addicted ! I love the continuing story line and the nonstop action. Well written, great depth of characters and creative. A must read - the entire series is absolutely incredible. This has the makings of a hit televisions series.
May 7, 2014
Scott is still comparable to Stephen King. I found this book to be a nice read, although it isn't in my usual genres of books. As with his other books, it's pretty close to believable.
June 2, 2014
3,5 stars actually.
I am still enjoying the series although ths book left me a bit unsatisfied. I felt like all the events were drawn out more than necessary.
I am still enjoying the series although ths book left me a bit unsatisfied. I felt like all the events were drawn out more than necessary.
February 4, 2015
Great book
I would recommend this book series to just about anyone. I just love how the author gives enough detail to paint a picture in your mind but so much that it gets annoying.
I would recommend this book series to just about anyone. I just love how the author gives enough detail to paint a picture in your mind but so much that it gets annoying.
May 20, 2015
Damon good
Have read most of the books ready for more looking forward to seeing more of these books to come thanks
Have read most of the books ready for more looking forward to seeing more of these books to come thanks
June 30, 2015
I am hooked. Sad about our Rachel. Sad about the children. Happy we still have Stephen and DeVontay and Franklin and Campbell. Hoping to see Jorge and his family again and the baby.
July 18, 2015
Creepy good, impossible to put down. A whole new twist on the apocalypse.
January 12, 2016
Very good and a bit disturbing. a good look at what it will be like in the world if society was to collapse.
April 3, 2021
To a Whiteout now. Great read my friends.
March 22, 2017
Rachel finally reunites with her friends and is getting close to reaching milepost 291. Will her grandfather accept her like this? What is she now? Can't wait for the next book!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews