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Flashpoint #4
Decay
Death incarnate arrives in Mercy as the death toll rises and the safe haven becomes more vulnerable than ever, in Flashpoint Book 4....
Half of the earth's population has been wiped out. Impossible to predict or stop, the Gamma Ray Burst tore through the Earth like a bullet, its radiation wave killing hundreds of millions and the aftereffects ensuring the deaths of billions more.
Now, as the world crumbles around them, a ragtag group of survivors make for the only home they know - the small town of Mercy. Spared the worst of the GRB's effects, the town is isolated, safe and self-sufficient - for now. The flash hasn't just decimated the Earth's population, though. It's brought out the worst in many of those who are still alive.
Survival in this new world doesn't just depend on preparedness - it depends on strength.
*****
It's the one disaster no one can plan for. A rogue cosmic event called a Gamma Ray Burst, sending a spike of radiation through the earth like a .50 caliber bullet through a ripe watermelon. It's speculated that such an event hit the Earth at some point in the past, causing a mass extinction event. With two potential sources for a GRB pointed directly at our heads, the chances of another one happening in our lifetime is remote... but still possible.
In Flashpoint, we explore such an event and the havoc it would wreak across the entire planet. From destroying our atmosphere to millions dying from incredibly painful radiation exposure, a GRB would be unpredictable and unavoidable for everyone, rich and poor, prepared and unprepared alike.
Flashpoint is a six-book miniseries-like event, written by Tara Ellis and #1 best-selling post-apocalyptic author Mike Kraus. This thrilling post-apocalyptic survival series will have you second-guessing the very nature of post-apocalyptic disaster scenarios and leave you breathless with every turn of the page.
Half of the earth's population has been wiped out. Impossible to predict or stop, the Gamma Ray Burst tore through the Earth like a bullet, its radiation wave killing hundreds of millions and the aftereffects ensuring the deaths of billions more.
Now, as the world crumbles around them, a ragtag group of survivors make for the only home they know - the small town of Mercy. Spared the worst of the GRB's effects, the town is isolated, safe and self-sufficient - for now. The flash hasn't just decimated the Earth's population, though. It's brought out the worst in many of those who are still alive.
Survival in this new world doesn't just depend on preparedness - it depends on strength.
*****
It's the one disaster no one can plan for. A rogue cosmic event called a Gamma Ray Burst, sending a spike of radiation through the earth like a .50 caliber bullet through a ripe watermelon. It's speculated that such an event hit the Earth at some point in the past, causing a mass extinction event. With two potential sources for a GRB pointed directly at our heads, the chances of another one happening in our lifetime is remote... but still possible.
In Flashpoint, we explore such an event and the havoc it would wreak across the entire planet. From destroying our atmosphere to millions dying from incredibly painful radiation exposure, a GRB would be unpredictable and unavoidable for everyone, rich and poor, prepared and unprepared alike.
Flashpoint is a six-book miniseries-like event, written by Tara Ellis and #1 best-selling post-apocalyptic author Mike Kraus. This thrilling post-apocalyptic survival series will have you second-guessing the very nature of post-apocalyptic disaster scenarios and leave you breathless with every turn of the page.
- GenresPost ApocalypticFiction
145 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 20, 2019
249 people are currently reading
49 people want to read
About the author
Tara Ellis
64 books250 followersWith over 50 published books across ten genres, author Tara Ellis is best known for her heart-pounding post-apocalyptic and thriller series. A heavy dose of mystery often underscores her character-driven plots, heralding back to what fueled her desire to tell stories from an early age.
A certified firefighter in the state of Washington, Tara volunteered as a FF/EMT for over eight years. She also responded as a support officer, worked as an emergency room technician, was a 911 dispatcher, and taught life-saving techniques to the public and first responders. As an author of thriller and survival stories, she draws upon her personal experience throughout her storytelling.
Tara lives in the gorgeous Cascade Mountains of Washington State. When not writing or spending time with family, she can be found hiking the woods while plotting her next adventure.
*Join Tara's newsletter on her author website: Tara Ellis Books
*Check out her women's literature and mysteries under the pen name of Tara Meyers
*Find her on FB under Tara Ellis Author
Check back for upcoming dates for public appearances and book signings!
Coming this year, in 2025:
*A new post-apocalyptic series with Aethon Books, The 6th Extinction, releases in April
*A new thriller series co-authored with L.T. Ryan was announced to release later this year!
*The third and final book in The Fallen series, The Redeemed, is coming this summer
*Several new audiobooks will go live throughout the year
Check back for upcoming dates for public appearances and book signings!
A certified firefighter in the state of Washington, Tara volunteered as a FF/EMT for over eight years. She also responded as a support officer, worked as an emergency room technician, was a 911 dispatcher, and taught life-saving techniques to the public and first responders. As an author of thriller and survival stories, she draws upon her personal experience throughout her storytelling.
Tara lives in the gorgeous Cascade Mountains of Washington State. When not writing or spending time with family, she can be found hiking the woods while plotting her next adventure.
*Join Tara's newsletter on her author website: Tara Ellis Books
*Check out her women's literature and mysteries under the pen name of Tara Meyers
*Find her on FB under Tara Ellis Author
Check back for upcoming dates for public appearances and book signings!
Coming this year, in 2025:
*A new post-apocalyptic series with Aethon Books, The 6th Extinction, releases in April
*A new thriller series co-authored with L.T. Ryan was announced to release later this year!
*The third and final book in The Fallen series, The Redeemed, is coming this summer
*Several new audiobooks will go live throughout the year
Check back for upcoming dates for public appearances and book signings!
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
November 15, 2025
4.5★s
When the Gamma Ray Burst hit earth it killed billions, with the radiation sickness which followed killing many more. The few survivors we are following in the Flashpoint series, have joined forces, heading to the small, isolated town of Mercy. But along the way they come across many who will do anything to survive, including kill their fellow man.
Sam & Danny, along with golden retriever Grace, joined up with Tom and his son Ethan, who had faced their own battles in previous books. Fortunately they still have their horses, but as they close in on Mercy, the weather becomes unbelievably threatening, caused by the GRB - the danger is astronomical. And then there is the newest arrival to Mercy. What is on his agenda?
Decay is the 4th in the Flashpoint series by Tara Ellis and Mike Kraus and once again it was fast paced and full on! I'm enjoying these novellas, & have two left. Looking forward to #5. Recommended.
When the Gamma Ray Burst hit earth it killed billions, with the radiation sickness which followed killing many more. The few survivors we are following in the Flashpoint series, have joined forces, heading to the small, isolated town of Mercy. But along the way they come across many who will do anything to survive, including kill their fellow man.
Sam & Danny, along with golden retriever Grace, joined up with Tom and his son Ethan, who had faced their own battles in previous books. Fortunately they still have their horses, but as they close in on Mercy, the weather becomes unbelievably threatening, caused by the GRB - the danger is astronomical. And then there is the newest arrival to Mercy. What is on his agenda?
Decay is the 4th in the Flashpoint series by Tara Ellis and Mike Kraus and once again it was fast paced and full on! I'm enjoying these novellas, & have two left. Looking forward to #5. Recommended.
December 21, 2019
Another great in this series. Intriguing and full of action. Half of the earth’s population gets wiped out. How can the rest be saved. Loved it.
December 28, 2019
Still a very captivating story. Tom, Ethan Sam and Danny, along with Grace the dog are still heading towards Mercy, the home town of Tom and Ethan. Their almost there and so is the storm brewing almost upon them. Meanwhile in Mercy, Russell has arrived under the guise of a priest and his about to make the place his domain, heaven help everyone. Likeable characters, totally spooked by what nature and the universe can dish out to us. Enjoyable
December 21, 2019
Decay - a review by Rosemary Kenny
It's two weeks since survivors of the gamma-ray burst, that took place over the skies of the United States started to take steps to improve their desperate chances of staying alive.
Some, like Mayor Patti are organising food and medical treatment for those who can make it to the remote town of Mercy and a tenuous sanctuary.
Others like Tom and his son. Ethan, are determined to get back to their home, in company with Danny, a lone woman in a frequently hostile environment.
In a battle of survival of the fittest, some predators have their own agenda, seizing control, whatever the cost to others, whose skills and provisions will be seized for the use of these tyrants alone, while they preach a false message to the gullible and needy.
I really liked the wide variety of excellent characters and storylines, with the way they were intertwined in a number of scenarios, that kept Tara Ellis and Mike Kraus' 4th Book in the Flashpoint series, Decay, full of action, thrills, relationships, hostility, betrayal, cruelty and much more and can highly recommend this whole series.
Why not get a copy and decide for yourself!
It's two weeks since survivors of the gamma-ray burst, that took place over the skies of the United States started to take steps to improve their desperate chances of staying alive.
Some, like Mayor Patti are organising food and medical treatment for those who can make it to the remote town of Mercy and a tenuous sanctuary.
Others like Tom and his son. Ethan, are determined to get back to their home, in company with Danny, a lone woman in a frequently hostile environment.
In a battle of survival of the fittest, some predators have their own agenda, seizing control, whatever the cost to others, whose skills and provisions will be seized for the use of these tyrants alone, while they preach a false message to the gullible and needy.
I really liked the wide variety of excellent characters and storylines, with the way they were intertwined in a number of scenarios, that kept Tara Ellis and Mike Kraus' 4th Book in the Flashpoint series, Decay, full of action, thrills, relationships, hostility, betrayal, cruelty and much more and can highly recommend this whole series.
Why not get a copy and decide for yourself!
December 23, 2019
Good
The characters the writer has chosen for this series are captivating. They are ordinary citizens who rise to the occasion when disaster comes. The storytelling is immensely enjoyable with mystery, intrigue and action.
The characters the writer has chosen for this series are captivating. They are ordinary citizens who rise to the occasion when disaster comes. The storytelling is immensely enjoyable with mystery, intrigue and action.
December 23, 2019
Fascinating intriguing thought-provoking
The journey is most of the wonderful aspects of this book each day is a new trial and tribulation to their future and hops looking forward to the next book waiting on pins and needles see what happens next
The journey is most of the wonderful aspects of this book each day is a new trial and tribulation to their future and hops looking forward to the next book waiting on pins and needles see what happens next
April 13, 2024
Mercy, MT, the chosen destination of small group of survivors, deals with its own issues, internal & external. And what about the remaining military powers-what do they have in mind for what’s left of America?
December 21, 2019
Decay review
Decay is the fourth post apocalyptic survival book in the Flashpoint series written by authors Tara Ellis and Mike Kraus.
Decay is the fourth post apocalyptic survival book in the Flashpoint series written by authors Tara Ellis and Mike Kraus.
January 19, 2020
Fantastic book
Lots of twists and turns. Great characters and story. Struggling to get back home for some and just looking for shelter for others.
Lots of twists and turns. Great characters and story. Struggling to get back home for some and just looking for shelter for others.
December 31, 2019
Adventure continues
Tom and his band of survivors are almost there. Can't wait for them to see how the town has survived. Still waiting to see how they will react.
Tom and his band of survivors are almost there. Can't wait for them to see how the town has survived. Still waiting to see how they will react.
May 18, 2020
Book 4 was another great read in this saga
Trying to get across long distances to get home to Mercy is harder than most thought as the world is collapsing more day to day. Plus dubious plans by the military minds as well as dangerous individuals who want to take away whatever you have makes for a long and dangerous trip.
Trying to get across long distances to get home to Mercy is harder than most thought as the world is collapsing more day to day. Plus dubious plans by the military minds as well as dangerous individuals who want to take away whatever you have makes for a long and dangerous trip.
January 13, 2020
Excellent
Regrettably I finished this fourth book in this exciting series, now being left on a cliff I have to wait until these fantastic authors release the next exciting book.
This series presents interesting perspectives into what might happen and how different people will respond....
Regrettably I finished this fourth book in this exciting series, now being left on a cliff I have to wait until these fantastic authors release the next exciting book.
This series presents interesting perspectives into what might happen and how different people will respond....
March 5, 2020
Never a Dull Moment
Tara Ellis and Mike Kraus have a winning series, moving through this series has been absolutely amazing. I can not wait to finish one book to get to the next book.
Tara Ellis and Mike Kraus have a winning series, moving through this series has been absolutely amazing. I can not wait to finish one book to get to the next book.
March 5, 2020
Decay
Decay: Book 4 in the Thrilling Post-Apocalyptic Survival - a fabulous book and definitely an excellent read for a 4th book in a series.
Decay: Book 4 in the Thrilling Post-Apocalyptic Survival - a fabulous book and definitely an excellent read for a 4th book in a series.
January 26, 2020
Cancel any plans
All roads lead to mercy!
This series is still by far my favourite one. As mercy battles to survive Tom and co continue their battle to return. Russell has started to put his sinister plan into action while general montgomery continues with Marshall law and the survivors list.
This was a one sitting read and I can’t wait to see what comes next.
All roads lead to mercy!
This series is still by far my favourite one. As mercy battles to survive Tom and co continue their battle to return. Russell has started to put his sinister plan into action while general montgomery continues with Marshall law and the survivors list.
This was a one sitting read and I can’t wait to see what comes next.
March 7, 2020
This is great series I wish I could get the rest
I loss kindle off my iPad upgrades? It has been a struggle to continue to read series and get to my library I can buy the book but I cannot read it it use to work fine I read a lot books but now I have read on my iPhone or my kindle reader pain!
I loss kindle off my iPad upgrades? It has been a struggle to continue to read series and get to my library I can buy the book but I cannot read it it use to work fine I read a lot books but now I have read on my iPhone or my kindle reader pain!
January 12, 2020
Sorry I didn't like this one as it is dragging somewhat. Has some action I just couldn't finish this book. Others might like this one but it wasn't for me. You are a good writer but I think this series is going on for too long.
December 24, 2019
This is very short but there is a little less action in this volume. It had the feel of setting up the next book.
May 3, 2020
Review can be found below book 1 in this series.
May 5, 2024
So good! This series keeps getting better and better!
December 18, 2024
This was so short! I wish there was a clearer sense of time but it’s still an easy read
January 1, 2025
2.5 rounded up.
June 27, 2020
It has been 2 weeks since the Flashpoint took out half of the Earth’s population and most people are starting to get their life together even though the world is disintegrating more each day with the weather now causing more distruction.
Tom, Danny, Ethan and Sam are still heading to Mercy with Grace in tow, their almost there but a storm is brewing, one unlike anything they’ve seen before. Russell has made it to Mercy and is pretending to be a Priest so that he can cause trouble no doubt.
The military have started taking what they want from whoever they want in a plan to seize control over the world.
And then there’s Mayor Patty who is organising a way to get everyone food, medicine and fresh water for anyone who lives in Mercy
I liked this book, there were a range of different characters all who had their own things going on and none of their storylines suffered even with the several POV’s.
Tom, Danny, Ethan and Sam are still heading to Mercy with Grace in tow, their almost there but a storm is brewing, one unlike anything they’ve seen before. Russell has made it to Mercy and is pretending to be a Priest so that he can cause trouble no doubt.
The military have started taking what they want from whoever they want in a plan to seize control over the world.
And then there’s Mayor Patty who is organising a way to get everyone food, medicine and fresh water for anyone who lives in Mercy
I liked this book, there were a range of different characters all who had their own things going on and none of their storylines suffered even with the several POV’s.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews