Unbroken

Savage North Chronicles #4

by Lindsey Pogue

The Savage North clan has traversed the Alaskan wilderness in search of sanctuary, lost loved ones, and found hope and family where they least expected it. But dark pasts have a way of lingering...

Thea was six years old when the Virus changed her, and while other survivors wear their superpowers like badges of honor, Thea fears the moment she’ll have to use her telekinesis again. After all, the mere flick of her wrist in the heat of the moment could prove fatal for someone she loves, and she already has enough blood on her hands to last her a lifetime. So, when she’s invited on a road trip to California, Thea jumps at the chance to shrug off the shadows of her youth and prove to herself she’s unbroken.

Since he was eight years old, Hunter has fought to keep his village safe from the Virus-ravaged world, and living in Whitehorse hasn’t changed that. Uncertainty still looms for the Untainteds, and Hunter joins the others on their trip south in search of answers. The only trouble is that Hunter and Thea have never gotten along, and three weeks together could be Hunter’s undoing...just not in the way he’s expecting.

Thousands of miles of open road, close living quarters, and a doomsday cult might be just what Thea and Hunter need to realize their dark pasts belong behind them, and together, discover that their destinies will alter the course of humanity as they know it.

Unbroken is a post-apocalyptic love story about first impressions, forgiveness, and the perseverance of the human spirit. It is the final, breathtaking installment in the Savage North Chronicles.

Genres: Post Apocalyptic, Dystopia, Science Fiction

410 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 12, 2020

About the author

“[Lindsey] mastered what it is to be human, and the connections we build with one another.” - Goodreads Reviewer

Lindsey Pogue is a genre-bending survival romance author, best known for her soul-stirring Savage North Chronicles. With a master’s in history and her passion for apocalyptic landscapes, Lindsey weaves epic adventures where humanity shines brightest in the darkest of times. Her weather-ravaged worlds defy genre boundaries, inviting readers to escape the ordinary and discover the boundless strength of the human spirit.

When Lindsey's not plotting her next storyline or dreaming up new, brooding characters, she's wrapped in blankets, watching action flicks with her own leading man. She and her husband live in Northern California with their rescue cats, Beast and Blue.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ “[Lindsey] mastered what it is to be human, and the connections we build with one another.” - Amazon (Author Unpublished)

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ "Lindsey Pogue is a master storyteller!" -Tome Tender Book Reviews

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ "Lindsey Pogue does it again!! I absolutely love her writing style."



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Reviews

[Carol [Goodreads Addict] · Rating 5 out of 5]

RATING 4.5 STARS

Unbroken is the fourth and final book in the Savage North Chronicles series by Lindsey Pogue. The characters in this series have become like my own family as I’ve watched them all grow and find ways to not only survive but to flourish in their new reality of a world. This is Thea and Hunter’s book.



Thea was only six years old when we first met her. Her introduction to the new reality of her world when she was just a child was horrific and left lasting scars on her. Thea is a telekinetic. But her power is raw and unbridled. She fears it because she’s seen what it can do. The memories will never leave her. Thea is nineteen now. Members of her group are readying for a trip thousands of miles to the south to New Bodega to trade and bring some horses home. For the very first time, Thea will accompany them on the trip. The only draw back is that Hunter is going as well.



Hunter is an untainted. He and his village escaped the virus. But they have also suffered at the hands of the “crazies!” He has both physical and mental scars from their experiences. Now he and his village live in Whitehorse. They are safe for the first time since he was a child. Hunter is expected to be the leader of his fellow villagers. But there is something missing from his life. When the opportunity to go along on the trip is offered, he knows he has to go. The fact that Thea will be there too is both good and bad. They don’t get along. But at the same time, he feels oddly drawn to her.



Weeks in close proximity, facing crazies that have survived in the wild, injury and illness help to bridge the gap between Thea and Hunter. They talk, they agree to be honest. And, truths are finally revealed. They both realized they misunderstood one another. That in reality, the sparks that kept them at odds are the same sparks that are drawing them together. But what happens when they return home to their own lives and their own families? Will that chemistry survive? Or will everything go back to the way it was?



To have Thea, the youngest, be the main character of this final book was perfect. I’ve watched her grow up in each book, go through all the stages that children go through, but in her different world. Now is the final stage, of falling in love. Her strength finally blooms but perhaps it’s because of Hunter she finally is able to gain the confidence she needs. This was a beautiful ending to this series. I loved seeing how happy everyone is and the bonds that hold them together are as true as in any family. This series is best read in order. You don’t want to miss a thing, you’ll want to get to know these characters one by one and experience their journey as I have. I hope you love them just as much as I do.

For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...

[Dianne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sometimes there are special series and amazing authors who know how to keep things cohesive, fresh and intriguing. Lindsey Pogue is one of those authors and the Savage North Chronicles is one of those series, so much so that knowing this is it, “THE END” I almost hesitated to read UNBROKEN because, well, aside from re-reading it a dozen times, this was goodbye to a connection. I know, crazy, but these characters have grown on me. Their plight, trials and tribulations and their ability to survive and create a new world as well as strong connections with others while navigating uncharted waters is magnetic, powerful.

Get ready to laugh, to grip the edge of your seat, to feel pain, joy and relief along with every single character. Be surprised as you get to know the “real them.” From start to finish, Unbroken BROUGHT THIS SERIES HOME WITH A TRULY SATISFYING CONCLUSION, with a sense that these people and their world will make it and the world will become a better place. Sure the special abilities are a plus, probably terrifying for some, but they work through it. And the romance? Yep, perfect. Breaking down walls of fear, suspicion, and pre-conceived notions? Absolutely awesome.

I read fiction, fantasy and adventure to relax, to escape into my imagination and Lindsey Pogue writes for people like me who want quality reading, no matter the subject!
Highly recommended for its world building, its creativity, and its characters!

I received a complimentary ARC edition from Lindsey Pogue! This is my honest and voluntary review!

Series: Savage North Chronicles - Book 4
Publication date : November 12, 2020
Publisher: Lindsey Pogue
Genre: Science Fiction | Romance
Print length : 410 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com

[Patricia King · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing

I can't believe this is the end. One of the most beautiful series ever read. I have always loved this author and her incredibly well written adventure stories. Set in a strange world where people who survived have wonderful and terrible gifts. But human love and kindness will rule.

[Jennifer G · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thea was only six when the virus ended the world as it was before. While others see her smile and easy-gong nature, she hides her fears and insecurities. Her ability, powerful telekinesis, saved her and others more than once but what others may see as a gift, she is scared of. She fears being out of control, hurting others. Hunter is one of the untainted. Never having the virus, his people fear those with abilities after monsters used their gifts to nearly destroy his village. Since the age eight he has carried the burdens of the survivors. Although they have much in common, Thea and Hunter have never gotten along and now they will be trapped together on a journey south to New Bodega. Thea is looking for an adventure on the trading trip and Hunter is going for the vaccine his people need for their future. Along the way these two realize the other isn't the enemy. As they face their past they discover a future, together.

Yes, I love the post-apocalyptic genre. It offers endless possibilities for humankind, only limited by the author's imagination. Yes, I fell in love with the North from the first book of this series. It's raw beauty was the ideal setting to start civilization over again. But more than anything I love Lindsey Pogue's writing. Her characters. The fullness of their lives. Their hopes, fears, dreams, heartache, and love. It's not the action surrounding them, although that is entertaining, it's the character study itself. The small moments of humanity caught on the pages. The importance of Thea's iPod and her love of Linkin Park. I relate, they are also my favorite and have carried me through rough times. Her love of honey, her guilt over deaths beyond her actual control, her laugh that brightens Hunter's every day, her love of family, her fear of losing Hunter before he was even hers. I could go on and on. There's a true connection between character and reader. Accompanying each character as they face their own personal challenges and grow up, fall in love, and find their way in life has been a true pleasure. Thea and Hunter, Beau and Wren, Sophie and Alex, Elle and Jackson, and Kit and Ross are family. I have been with them from the virus onset through the first days struggling to survive, to their current lives. I've cried over their losses; Luna most of all. Their lives set against the backdrop of the land has been brilliant. The writing is vivid, significant. "This is what the end looks like... and It's a complicated feeling, survival..." It's a special moment when a book gives you all the feels, when you feel the lump in your throat, the tears in your eyes, and the fullness in your heart. That's what these characters, this series gives to me.

[H. T. · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second post-apocalyptic series by Lindsey Pogue that I've read. The first was The Ending. They are set in the same world but with (mostly) different characters and locations. The 2 series are quite different. The Ending is pretty fast paced with a lot of action. The Savage North definitely had action but it was more focused on the human side of things and how a new 'family' is formed. It spends a lot of time focusing on each character as they navigate the new world. The first book focuses on the immediate aftermath of the virus but most of the others focus on years after it as people have had to learn how to survive. I loved it.

[Fred Oelrich · Rating 5 out of 5]

Truth to Power


This is an excellent ending to the series. It closes where it started. Thea, her ability, and her acceptance of its power. She finishes growing up in this story. I would see her as this little kid and then she would be this young adult. That transition is difficult for her. This transition is difficult for any kid who has gone through great trauma at a very young age. Lindsey brings such truth to her stories. Hopefully it will bring some insights to young adults that they can and will survive.

It is also a romance novel. For those who like these, Lindsey writes good ones.

It’s a great story, rich in culture and scenery. A lovely tale with plenty of tension along the way. I am glad that I found Lindsey’s books and anticipate many good reads in the future.

[Nicki (BooksandChatt) · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Savage North Chronicles is such an Amazing series!

Unbroken was the best ending I could’ve hoped for! You’ll laugh , you’ll cry, you will most definitely wish you had an Ability!

Here they are a decade After the Ending and they are still trying to navigate this new world. I Loved seeing Thea’s growth! How she came into her own and grew more comfortable with herself and her ability.

Thea and Hunter really stole my heart! I love Thea’s sassy, happy spirit and Hunter’s standoffish personality. The chemistry between them was explosive! The guilt that Thea carries and the responsibility that Hunter has on his shoulders will definitely get you in the feels.

It is bittersweet to say goodbye to these characters! Lindsey’s writing is so vivid that you feel like you’re there with them. They’re my friends, my family, and I’m going to miss them! But that’s okay, cause I can revisit them! 😉

Definitely a Must Read

-received an arc for an honest review

[Grace · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is, for all intents and purposes, the end of the series. While I do still have Day Zero: Beginnings left to read, that is a prequel novella. So, the crew's story reaches its furthest future point in Unbroken. How bittersweet!

I enjoyed Thea's story, especially since it picked up close to where Beau's book left off - the people of Hunter & Wren's village have moved to Whitehorse, and are slowly, slooowly adjusting to their new life. Thea and Hunter are both joining a group going on a long trip down to New Bodega, but the issue? They don't like each other and the trip is 3 weeks long. WhatEVER will happen, hmm, hmmm... ;)

The Savage North Chronicles get progressively more character-focused as the series goes on. Book one, The Darkest Winter, is very much focused on survival and finding safety in the midst of the apocalypse. From there, years pass and as the world settles down, there is less action and adrenaline spiking in every moment for our beloved characters. However, this last installment brings back some of the action and tense moments of the earlier books, combining it with romance and an optimistic look on the future.

The long trip the travelling crew takes is fraught with some anxiety and wariness as they consider the fact that they could run into other survivors who are either less sane or more cruel. The tension these worries - and the inevitable encounters - lend to the story was addicting and very reminiscent of the first couple of books. Exciting to read, yes, but also a neat full-circle moment that shows how much stronger and more confident the characters are now! Especially baby Thea, all grown up...

The author truly excels at creating deep, well-fleshed-out characters! Thea was six years old in the first book, and here she is now, 19 years old. I loved her moments of growth and acceptance, and the inner turmoil she had with her Ability. How unique it was for her and Beau to grow up and barely remember the world before! This history and Thea's current struggles because of it were very well portrayed.

Hunter's hurts and fears go deeper than I knew, and we hear more about the original experience his village had after the outbreak. It's gross, hard to read, and heartbreaking, but it allows us to know Hunter so much more.

I liked Thea and Hunter's romance more than Wren & Beau's in the previous book. There is a prominent plot issue revolving around how couples composed of a Tainted and Untainted member usually run into issues when trying to procreate, and this affected the pacing of Thea and Hunter's relationship, but in a believable way - they needed to know if they could even consider being together long-term.

Maybe my favorite aspect of Unbroken was how many survivors are moving on and finding new happiness. Yes, we've seen Alex and Sophie get together, Elle and Jackson, etc. etc. But some of the newer Whitehorse members, especially the unlikely pairings (or hints at them)? It's so precious, and left me with a warm feeling as I was saying goodbye to this world and these characters.

I don't think I'll ever read a post-apocalyptic series that made me feel like The Savage North Chronicles did! A perfect mix of found family, new relationships, character growth, rebuilding community in a ravaged and strange world, and some heart-thumping action to boot!
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**content notes: flashbacks to a child hearing rape and torture from another room (and understanding what is happening) - intense but not seen. PTSD. domestic violence, husband towards wife (mentioned, not seen). Violence & death, including self-defense killing. attempted sexual assault (mentioned, not seen).
**romance notes: mentions of sex. fade-to-black scene with lead-up. kissing. makeouts.
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My Reviews - Savage North Chronicles:
#1 The Darkest Winter: 5/5 ⭐
#2 The Longest Night: 5/5 ⭐ (novella)
#3 Midnight Sun: 4/5 ⭐
#4 Fading Shadows: 4/5 ⭐(novella)
#5 Untamed: 4/5 ⭐
#6 Unbroken: 4/5 ⭐
#0.5 Day Zero: Beginnings: 4/5 ⭐ (prequel novella)

[Rhonna Woodie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm a big Lindsey Pogue fan! I love her writing style and her imagination!

This is one of my favorites of all her books. That may be because of the main character, Thea. Reading her series I have watched Thea from a child not understanding the state of the world or her new powers, fighting with her brother Beau, growing and experiencing what life has to offer in this new world post apocalypse. She has always been one of my favorite characters, always bringing some humor to the story, full of spit and vinegar, not putting up with crap from anyone. She has also gone through some tragedies that have affected her to her core, some of which she caused. How do you live with that?

Well, she does. Thea is a strong young woman, full of spunk and always happy, until she meets Hunter. What a judgmental jerk (at first...). Thea is still young, hasn't quite developed full control of her telekinesis power and that scares her. After her brother meets an untainted and falls in love (in Untamed) he wants to bring her people to the safety of their settlement. Enter Hunter. But Hunter and their people have had some terrible experiences with the tainted, therefore they hate them without even knowing them. But they join the settlement anyway.

With the vaccine developed, Hunter and Thea join a small group so Hunter can take the vaccine. On this journey, Thea and Hunter realize they have not given each other a fair shake and become friends. Thea sees Hunter as she hasn't seen him before and realizes he's not the jerk she thought he was, he's very protective of his people. Hunter sees Thea not just as a tainted any more, but as a girl who has been through a hell of a lot in her young life.

This journey is a fun one, with challenges, understanding, discovery, learning, and growth. And Thea and Hunter will be the first to take the next step in post apocalypse life.

[Elaine M Bak · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVE these books - the Ending Series and the Savage North Chronicles. It’s all about the characters, and I care about so many of them are more than real people I know. All the personalities, all the growth, love. Definitely recommend. Slight grammar issues using “I” at times when it should be “me” and over using “swallowed thickly” but that can all be overlooked with the amazing world building and character development. I will copy and paste this same review on some others too.

[A Schaeffs · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a beautiful ending.

How does a kid grow up in a post-apocalyptic world, where super powers could cause soul breaking damage and still come out of it semi-normal on the other side?

Thea was little but old enough to remember everything that happened at the beginning of the end of the world and her pain was buried deep in her bubbly character. But as a grown woman, she has to start taking responsibility for herself and find her place in the world. Seeking to do just that, she prepares to head out of her safe zone for the first time since she arrived there as a child.

On the other hand, Hunter has to face his own limitations in a world where he often has little control of what happens to him and his people. Everyone looks to him to lead and he will venture out in search of a possibility to further protect them.

The group's journey is rife with trouble and barriers that they must resolve, working together for their common goal and safety. And as they are thrust into tight spaces and common chores, Thea and Hunter begin to realize there is much more to each other, than the negative impressions they were quick to form of one another.

This book is a romance story that takes place in a world that has crumbled over the decade since the apocalypse, where powers can make or break your soul, where everyone has to have their wits about them if they are to survive, fighting to carve a path for a life worth living.

For ending series lovers: some of the characters from the Ending series make cameos.

[Suzanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great ending to an amazing series, The Savage North Chronicles! Of course I will always want more in this post apocalyptic world ravaged by a virus. A virus that killed many and affected the survivors in many different ways. I have really enjoyed the journey of each member in this group of "family" and friends.

Thea's story provided a great ending since she was the youngest member of the family to come of age, embrace her new ability and find love. I was very interested in getting to know more about Hunter when we met him in Beau's book and it was hard not to love this tough guy who was hiding a big heart. Thea and Hunter seemed like complete opposites in the beginning but not so much in the end.

Lindsey Pogue is an incredible writer that draws me into the story and the characters from the very beginning. I look forward to every book she releases.

[Fred · Rating 5 out of 5]

Truth to Power

This is an excellent ending to the series. It closes where it started. Thea, her ability, and her acceptance of its power. She finishes growing up in this story. I would see her as this little kid and then she would be this young adult. That transition is difficult for her. This transition is difficult for any kid who has gone through great trauma at a very young age. Lindsey brings such truth to her stories. Hopefully it will bring some insights to young adults that they can and will survive.

It is also a romance novel. For those who like these, Lindsey writes good ones.

It’s a great story, rich in culture and scenery. A lovely tale with plenty of tension along the way. I am glad that I found Lindsey’s books and anticipate many good reads in the future.

[Michelle Bartlow · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this series. I love the concept and different spin on the end of the world. One small critique is the male narration- it was good but very slow imo-listened to this series in 1.35 speed but even at that speed it seemed slower than normal.TBH I didn’t even try listening in normal speed to see what that sounded like. In the end-the critique I stated it did not take away from my enjoyment of the book. I wish there were more in the series!

[S.T. Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thea ever after

As this series continued the author advanced the world past the apocalypse that started it all and into a newly rebuilt world which I found very interesting. I appreciate the character stories. I love a good romance. What was lacking in adventure drama was made up for with heart and feels and I'm not at all upset about it. If there's ever a chance to visit this world again another story, new characters, whatever it may look like I'll be pleased to return.

[Red · Rating 5 out of 5]

Our little girl, Thea, is now a young woman, and is taking part in her first trip. Not too much left to say about this series. This is the last book. And I have had a wonderful time reading about this 'family' as they proved that they were survivors. I want more, but I am satisfied with where this went.

[Robert Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book

An amazing ending to an awesome series. I so enjoyed each and every character but Beau and Thea were my favorites. Amazing how this book drew me in and captured me. I couldn't put it down, then when it ended I was saddened. Now on to more of Lindsay. Worth the effort.

[Annie Kosar · Rating 5 out of 5]

GORGEOUS ROMANCE IN AN INCREDIBLY MAGNIFICENT DYSTOPIAN WORLD!!!

Cannot get ENOUGH of this world and these AMAZING characters!!!!:-). Loved the breathtaking settings and the powerful writing!!!:-). The more I learn about and experience with all of these characters the more I feel everything right alongside them!!!:-). THIS SERIES IS PHENOMENAL!!!:-). LOVED IT!!:-)

[Rebekah Lyle · Rating 4 out of 5]

The final book in this series and it takes Thea and Hunter's perspectives. I enjoyed the overall journey and found that this book wrapped up most things nicely. It was fairly predictable but still enjoyable.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love Love Love

Just when you think that Beaus story was your favorite you read this story and fall in love again!!! I love Theas story!! I love seeing into Dani and Zoe’s life too!! I wish there was one more story!!! I really love these characters and their stories!!!

[Deborah Zeman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this series! Hated to see it end!

[KARYN RASSEL · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hunter and Thea

Going on a long trip to replenish supplies to New Bodega in California will have a great time to get to know each other.

[Bonny · Rating 5 out of 5]

A really good finish to the story

If you've read the others you are going to read this one. It doesn't disappoint. I just wish there were going to be more in this series.

[Cara Major · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great read

Great easy read. If you like dystopian post apocalyptic fiction this series is a good pick. Good plot and an easy quick read.

[Bookgirl · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series was beyond my expectations. I loved the story and the characters. The adventure, love, and sadness. If you love post - apocalyptic books you need to read this series!!

[Lynda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good series. I like it.

[Nyxa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this series

[Susan Herring · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️

[Jordyn Rae · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thea was everything 🥺

[Jess.loves2read · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved everything about this book and this series!