Book 2 - Hell Divers II, The Hell Divers Series

I fell in love with Nicholas' writing in Extinction Horizon, and the series that followed.

Hell Divers was a new tale with a fantastic topography. This here Hell Divers 2: Ghost, just reminded why I love his writing. The action never lets up. There are new creatures to run from, and a new place to explore. You don't know who is friend, and who is foe. And you certainly won't see the ending coming. It's writing like this that makes reading so much fun.

Great follow up to the story. Luckily I was able to purchase 1 and 2 together without having to wait. I cannot go into much detail or I would have spoilers but can say that I could not put this down. I cannot wait for the 3rd book to come out!!!

Now that know the characters, book 2 seems to pack more punch. I enjoyed book one quite a bit for it's world building and the next step in the story does not disappoint. If you enjoy action fiction you will enjoy Hell Divers II.

This was another great addition to the series. I read it very quickly. I didn’t want to put it down but I had to every so often for things like children wanting food and such.....lol. I highly recommend this series.

I love a summer sequel; getting reacquainted with some old friends, making some new ones and just enjoying the time spent together. The familiarity of the sequel is comforting. I am already invested in the world, I know the backstory, and I have an idea of where I would like the adventure to go. Ghosts fits the summer sequel spot superbly.

In all honesty, I think that Hell Divers #2 had some challenges to overcome. You see, I felt like the original was a complete story. I didn’t think that I needed anything more, but curiosity got the best of me and I jumped at the opportunity to read book #2. Well, Sansbury Smith kicked this one off with an unexpected bang and I was on board. He created a necessity where there was none.

With X out of the picture, we have a new hero. Our little friend Tin from book #1 is all grown up and has enlisted in the family business. He is the perfect hero to pick up where X left off. He is everything that X is not, yet the two have so much in common. As a reader, I was glad to see that things worked out for Tin, as much as they could in this environment. It was good to see him come into his own. Tin is not X, but he is just as complex. The supporting cast contained a mix of new and familiar faces, each one critical in moving the story forward. The villain, well, he is just pure “Dr. Evil”, I loved to hate him.

Ghosts was a great story that pulled me further into the franchise. Unlike book #1, this story is not over, the crap has really hit the fan and I’ll be sticking around to find out where it all lands. I have a summer sequel for 2018 already on my list.​

*I received a copy of the book from the publisher (via NetGalley) in exchange for an honest review.

Another riveting book from Nicholas Sansbury Smith. Hell Divers II picks up ten years later. The fight for survival is still intense, but now includes an almost apocalyptic mentality from some aboard the Hive that the remaining humans are doomed. Surviving on the surface of the planet is almost impossible as the Divers encounter even more frightening creatures than they have ever seen before. Intense emotions always at the forefront, plot twists and intrigue around every corner. Loved this book, as I do everything and anything Mr. Smith writes. A definite recommendation.

What an emotional roller coaster! My favorite author’s work being read by my favorite narrator, what a ride. This is the series that introduced me to, and hooked me on, Nicholas Sansbury Smith’s works late last year. To say that I have been anxious for the first sequel in this trilogy would be the understatement of the century. This was a sequel that was worth the wait and then some. I didn't want to stop listening, and yet I did as I didn't want the story to end.

Let me start by saying that the transition from the first book to the second was very well done. The opening to this book picked up right where I am certain every fan of the series wanted it to. What happened to X? Where has he been? Did he even survive? I now know the answer and, to steal a quote from the Starship Troopers movie, “I would like to know more”.

This was a book that I wanted to push through as quickly as possible, but also didn’t want to finish because I know part three is some time off still. I couldn’t wait to start the book and watched as I became more and more depressed as the time on the Audible app ticked down to the end of the story. There were times I considered slowing down the narration just to make the story last longer.

Nick uses his masterful writing and descriptive talents to bring us up-to-date, 10 years later, about the status of X, the hell divers, and the other citizens of the Hive. I was almost taken aback mid-book as I listened to R.C. Bray narrate his purposeful mispronunciations of the names of US cities and America, only to realize that I would have understood had I read the physical book. My wife had to set me straight on this one.

As I said above, there were several key emotional scenes throughout this story that had me angry, upset, and intrigued. The issues surrounding Janga and her prophecies (I came to refer to her as The Oracle) brought about great anger later in the story. Witnessing the evolution of Michael (Tin) from the timid boy to the commander of a Hell Diver team was like watching the child you once knew grow up into a successful adult. The new monsters (Vultures, eyeball creatures, and the vines) left me imagining them the story progressed and I listened to Nick’s vivid descriptions.

The origins of the creatures on the surface is explained in this chapter of the series and helps paint a new picture on whether or not humanity actually stands a chance on the surface. The challenge, of course, is whether or not the hive will actually make it to the surface given the drama surrounding the new pilot of the Hive. To give you an idea of what I mean, I will give you a simple quote from the book: “There is no room for mercy in the sky”.

This entry in the series is filled with just about every thematic element I could think of. Relationship building, betrayal, drama, action, horror, suspense, it is all there. And it is all masterfully tied together through Nick’s wordsmithing skills. There is a new team bond formed and I can say that I am proudly a member of Team Rodgnolia.

If you have not listened to the first entry in this series yet, please do so; you will not regret it. If you have, then what are you reading my review for as you already know the awesomeness that surrounds this series. Go forth and read/listen! If you have read the books, I highly recommend giving the Audible narration a try as R.C. Bray does an absolutely fantastic job of bringing Nick’s words to life.

This is an easy 5/5 although I am now saddened about having to leave as I now know that I have to wait for the conclusion. At just over 8 hours, this is a book where you will find yourself wishing it were twice that length.

“There is no room in the sky for mercy.”

It’s been hundreds of years since the soon-to-be-extinct humans have inhabited the clouds. They never thought the Hive would last so long. And after so much time it won’t last much more. They know it.

And after a unexpected transmission is received, realizing their true nature of living down on the surface, some of those living on the Hive have found new hopes of finding human life and underground settlements on earth. However, powerful forces will do anything they can to prevent that from happening.

As if humanity’s future was on the sky.

As a new generation of Hell Divers embark on a rescue/search-for-human-life mission, they will discover things they didn’t expected to. There are many secrets lurking somewhere down, waiting to be revealed... and many more dangers also.

As I started reading book 2 I expected it be as good as book 1, but it wasn’t like that. It was even better. Nicholas developed a credible story with tons of action and scientific explanations. Needless is to say they author continued on his rampage of exquisite-written post apocalyptic fiction.

Besides that, one thing I really liked was the direction Nicholas took the story towards. I didn’t think the story should continue to run so much on the Hive as it did on book 1. And it wasn’t like that. There was so much I really wanted to know about humanity’s life down in earth and everything about it... there were too many questions I finished book 1 with. And many of them got answers, but still there’s much more to be learned from this world in upcoming books. And that is good.

In the end I think the story couldn’t take a better turn than it did. I also really liked how the author doesn’t seem rushed to tell everything (I don’t want it either).

Every fan of PA books must read these series. The story has the perfect combination between good monster fights, beautiful wasteland depictions and intrigue about important characters. The sky is the limit with these series and the author has let that know.

Hellz yeah!

This sequel was everything I could have hoped for, and everything I didn't know I needed! I wish I could have read it sooner, but, you know, life. But before I gush too much, I need to vent my frustration. GRRRRR! With the cliffhanger from book 1, I was hoping against all hope for some answers, but... NOPE! Smith is going to keep us dangling for just a little bit longer. This book leaps ahead in time by a decade. Life doesn't seem to have changed much since book one, except we have a new captain on the deck, and Tin isn't so little anymore. In fact, he's grown up to become the commander for Team Raptor, stepping in to fill X's shoes. He has lost all of his parental figures, but has maintained all the lessons they taught him. He is brave and loyal, and I'm going to miss him while waiting for the third book. *sigh*

Hell Divers set the precedent, and Ghosts certainly followed suit. Just as with the first book, the pace was lightning fast, the scenes jumping between characters, all of whom seemed to be constantly in danger. The swearing wasn't gratuitous, and neither was the gore, though I would still recommend it for a mature audience. I was actually *almost* disappointed there wasn't a higher body count. Let me clarify... that doesn't mean I'm voluntarily offering any of my favorites up for sacrifice, but there are certainly a few characters I would gladly throw out of the Hive without a chute.

The world below the airship is slightly different than before. While still the same ravaged, storm-ridden, radioactive apocalypse, we have moved to the east coast, where we catch the first glimpse of the polluted ocean. With this change of scenery, comes a new breed of terror. Just when you were beginning to wonder how things could possibly get worse...

Within the first chapter, I had already decided that the book wasn't going to be long enough to satisfy me. Sure enough, by the last page flip, I was already looking ahead to the publication date for Deliverance. July isn't that far away, right? I was pretty happy to be given some actual scientific answers to how the world turned out this way, though I can't speak to the validity of the science just yet (Google is my friend). All in all, a stellar sequel, with an enticing setup for book 3.

After the ending of book 1 I wasn't sure I wanted to read the second. Not because it wasn't good, but because the ending was just so.... well it made me angry.

I am so glad I decided to continue. This book happens years after the first and some very important things have changed... not for the better.

We learn more about what happened, both what happened 200 years ago and what caused the sirens. We also get introduced to some new terrifying creatures.

Lots of action, a good story and plenty of characters that you will either love or hate make this a must read sequel to Hell Divers.

Worst part about reading a NSS book? Having to wait a whole year for the next one!! WAAAAA!!!

I always wait too long to review NSS’s books. It’s obviously not that I don’t love them, I just always think if I give myself some more time the perfect review will just come to me.

That is not the case. So, I’m going to keep this short and sweet.

If you enjoy post-apocalyptic fiction with a militaristic viewpoint, and you haven’t read a Nicholas Sansbury Smith book yet, then shame on you! I can say for certain that NSS is one of maybe 5 authors I will immediately read whatever they write because I always enjoy them. Hell Divers 2 was no different. I devoured this book once I started it! And if you’ve read HD1 then you know exactly why. Taking place almost 10 years after Hell Divers 1, we are definitely left with a lot of holes to be filled. Many of these are taken care of in this 2nd installment, as the book goes on, but again, we get to the ending and I’m screaming and throwing my hands up in the air as I silently cry and pout about not having the next book yet. HD2 had just as much action and mutants as HD1, but HD2 gives us a whole different kind of villain. A man who is selfish, despicable, and I swear, emotionless. I’ll be very happy to find out what his comeuppance ends up being in book 3.

I’m not going into anything else because I don’t want there to be spoilers for anyone that is trying to decide if they want to pick up this series, or not. But here’s my advice, READ IT! READ IT NOW!!! Then join me in my misery as I wait for book 3…

Received via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Highly recommended (and I have recommended it already). If you were a fan of the first Hell Divers, this book really does not disappoint. I was hooked from the prolog. When Hell Divers concluded, I was so torn on the ending. These guys just couldn't catch a break. Hell Divers II takes over 10 years later, and you get a great chance to see how the surviving characters developed. It wasn't just a "where are they now" book, however. This adventure stood on its own, and kept me guessing as to what the heck the ancestors who started WWIII were thinking when they started playing God.

What other book might you compare Hell Divers II: Ghosts to and why?
Has a "Band of Brothers" feel to it. Such a tight nit community of divers, like those who were airborne before them. They really just lookout for each other as a community, just because they're hell divers. Isolated from support, fighting countless numbers while surrounded. A novel of selfless sacrifice just like Hell Divers 1.

What does R. C. Bray bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?
Would have never discovered this series if it wasn't my addiction to R.C. Bray readings. This man has all the depth that you want out of a narrator, and the gruff behind his voice to make you believe he is the war torn characters he portrays.

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?
Smith has no problem letting you get attached to a character and then killing them off. It's life, and I actually appreciate this. Sometimes you barely know a person, like the characters at the beginning of Hell Divers 1, and they are killed before you get a chance. Other times, you grow a respect and fondness for a person, and they are cut down, despite your best efforts. War is hell like that... and from the writing of Smith, apparently so is surviving the aftermath of a nuclear war.

Any additional comments?
I would also recommend this book to dieselpunk fans. While not of the 1930s era, somehow you get that vibe of the post world war airships that were being developed into aircraft carriers in this novel. Can't wait to preorder Hell Divers 3!!!!

*I received an ecopy of this book via NetGalley. This has not influenced my review.*

Much like the first book, this was an intense, gripping post-apocalyptic read. The world-building in this series is incredible and really makes me feel like I'm there, especially on the bleak, terrifying surface. The characters are all flawed and gruff, but most of them are still likeable and good people. The concept of the airship and the hell divers is such a unique one (I mean, come on, just look at the kick-butt suit on the cover). In short---these books are so well thought-out and well-written, and there is so much to love about them.

I felt like this book suffered a bit from middle book syndrome though. It seemed kind of repetitive (the ship was falling apart, hell divers had to go on dangerous missions, the surface was filled with mutated monsters that tried to kill them, etc.), and even though it did eventually start getting to the secrets mentioned in the blurb, it still seems like little actually happened plot-wise. But the things that did happen were significant, some info was found that shed more light on the world and the creatures, and it seems as though a lot of interesting stuff is going to happen in the next book.

There was one major difference between this book and the first one though, and that was the main characters. I admit I was disappointed to find out X wouldn't be a main character in this one since, to put it simply, his character was awesome, but all the hell diver POV characters were just as unique and well-written. I've read a lot of books lately in which all the third person POVs sounded the same, but I never found myself getting confused about whose POV I was in while reading this book. And for anyone who has finished Book 1 but is unsure about whether to continue because of the ending, [hidden spoiler can be found in my review on my blog or Goodreads].

There was also Captain Jordan instead of Captain Ash this time, and JORDAN WAS AN AWFUL PERSON. He liked to pretend he had the best interests of all the people on the ship at heart, but most of his decisions were actually as selfish as selfish can get. If you like a good hate-able antagonist to root against, you won't be disappointed. [Hidden spoiler can be found in my review on my blog or Goodreads.]

Overall, despite some repetition in the plot, this was a gripping book that I didn't want to put down with flawed but good-hearted characters, intense scenes, and a unique, complex post-apocalyptic world!

Rating: 4 Stars

Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight (link in profile)

Better than the first book.
It read like the movie Aliens where Ripley and the marines were running for their lives with the aliens nipping at their heels.
The scenes on the ground in the silo were very good. The mutants were terrifying and at times their description made me laugh. One-eyed, one-horned, flyin' purple people eater.
The political drama on the Hive didn't add to the book it just slowed the book down. Not sure why captain Jordan resisted finding the silo.
I look forward to book 3 Deliverance.
3 1/2 stars.

Returning to the dystopian world of a radioactive and scorched earth, we discover that X didn’t die in the first book. He survived, and began to make his way across the wastelands of the United States from Hades to the east coast . . . but did he make it, or not?

Ten years later, Michael aka Tin and the other Hell Divers begin to discover that Captain Jordan has been withholding information. In a desperate attempt to force his people to realize that the only chance for survival is to continue aboard the Hive, Jordan sends a team down to search for survivors from a mystery SOS beacon. But did anyone survive the 260 years of hell? Or it is another trap for the Hell Divers?

This is a non-stop adrenaline rush of action, monsters and terror wrapped around the question of the price for humanity’s survival. One question is never asked but haunted me throughout the course of the book—at what point do we cease being human?

As before, each character wants to survive against the ever mounting odds and a steadily failing ship, but their ideas for salvation all differ, making the different objectives and the consequences of their choices play out in deadly and destructive ways.

I received this ARC from NetGalley for an honest review.

Sooner are later I am expecting Nicholas Sansbury Smith to drop the ball. Surely he can't keep up this pace whilst maintaining the quality. Well in his this second installment of the Hell Diver Trilogy he has managed to deliver yet another top notch read.

Ghosts takes us back into the world ripped apart from a nuclear war with a handful of humans fighting for survival. After the explosive first book the author takes no hostages in the second. The Hell Divers seek the truth the only was they no know how, they dive to survive.

This book was responsible for my blood pressure going sky high as the tension at times become unbearable. Nicholas Sansbury Smith definitely knows how to tell a great yarn again and again.

I just finished Hell Diver 2, Ghost. This story picks up where the first book left off. So many twists and turns. I laughed at the humor of some of the people in the story and cried over the losses that happened in this book. I heard someone say, that Nicholas Stansbury Smith takes you a journey and you are right with them, what they feel, what they see, it is almost like you are there with them. It is amazing how true that statement is. Following along as Tin grows up and becomes a man. The lives of the residents on the ship. How folks are treated depending on their station. Betrayal, love, hunger, hate all the emotions rotating for hundreds of years. I am looking forward to the next chapter and am so very happy that book 3 is already out and will not have to wait. Totally would recommend this series or anything this author writes.

The second book of a trilogy usually just moves the plot along and sets up the book 3 finale. Hell Divers II: Ghosts does much more. I actually preferred it to the first book of the series (which I quite enjoyed). The cast is larger in this instalment, allowing for more varied points of view as the reader moves between Michael, Weaver, Jordan...and others whom I won't name lest I spoil anything. The action is frequent but not unrelenting, which I appreciated as I've read other post-apocalyptic novels that seem like little more than a dozen battle scenes strung together with forced dialogue. Not so here. While there's a clear villain of the piece, it's not immediately black and white; motivations, and their worth, are left for the reader to evaluate for much of the book. This is where the very clearly-defined social classes on board the Hive also come into play. This is much, much more than just another zombie shoot 'em up. I'm looking forward to Hell Divers III: Deliverance.

The second book in the Hell Divers series, aptly titled Ghosts, picks up ten years after the events of Hell Divers. Tin is all grown up and has follwed in the footsteps of two wise men by becoming the commander of the Hell Diver team Raptor. The Hell Divers dive to keep the hive in the air. But all is not as it seems when a mysterious distress signal calls the Hell Divers back to the poisoned surface.

I enjoyed reading the next installment in the Hell Divers trilogy. The main story line that Mr Smith has created is truly thrilling. I loved to learn about the world and especially the Hive which is a great creation.

There were a few changes that I found difficult to grasp as first including cast changes as this book jumps ahead ten years from the prevous one. However some of my favourite charcters did return and I grew to love a couple of new characters including Rodger Doger Mintel who is a great comedic character who was well written.

The Hell Divers trilogy is a great read for anyone who loves science fiction, action, mystery and or adventure as this series encompasses it all.

There can be issues with book 2 of a trilogy. Book one sets up the trilogy and book three hopefully is a thrilling conclusion. But for book two it can end up being too slow or feel like one is just passing the time leading up to the final book. Thankfully Hell Divers 2 does not have those flaws. This is a thrilling book that is just as good as the first one. The author seems to always be able to create fantastic characters while filling his books with plenty of action and thrills. Neither the characters or the pace is ever lacking. The pace of this book is great and I flew through this book. The author creates characters which feel real and have flaws and are very compelling. The world is well crafted and the story is filled with many scary monsters. Once again the author has created a wonderful book and I can't wait for the conclusion. I have no doubt it will rock.

Hell Divers II: Ghosts was everything I'd hoped for & so much more! I'd preordered it after reading the first Hell Divers book, & the wait was pretty excruciating even though not long, lol. Ghosts has great twists & many nail biting moments, yet still offers up hope in a totally destroyed, toxic future Earth. Nicholas Sansbury Smith is an amazing writer who gives wonderful in-depth detail to his characters & environments - I felt like I was right there in the middle of it all. I of course preordered Hell Divers III: Deliverance, & am so excited that it will be available in just a few weeks - yay! (Still hard to wait, though.) I really hope that book III won't end this series, but if it does, I'll take comfort in knowing I'll enjoy reading all 3 Hell Diver books again & again. :)

Great story, and the visuals it conjures up are spectacular! It is such a unique premise, and I imagine this world looking very steam punk, which really brings the story to life for me. Great characters you really care for quickly, and the desolated world they live in is vividly brought to life by the author. Full of action and drama, and those Sirens are horrifying and creepy. I can't wait to listen to the third book in the series. I listen to audiobooks, and the narrator for this book series is excellent. I highly recommend the Hell Divers series, and also the Extinction Cycle (7 books) series by Nicholas Sansbury Smith. Both are simply great reads!

LOVED it! I’m not going to say that it was better than book one because I absolutely loved the first book but this one, to me, was just as good. We don’t get to see much of the main character from the previous book but we got enough of what we needed to know about him so I’m ok with it. I loved the main characters on this one, didn’t even cross my mind of who it would be one of them but since some time has passed when we begin book two, it does make sense that it would be him. We didn’t lose a lot of people on this one so that is a big plus.
If you like fast paced, full of action books then I definitely recommend this series.
*Big thanks to the author for sending me this awesome book!

Having finished the first book in record time - I immediately picked up Hell Divers II: Ghosts.

Set 10 years after the first installment, we pick up on the life of Michael "Tin" Everheart - the commander of Team Raptor. Life on the Hive isn't all sunshine and rainbows under the new command of Captain Leon Jordan.

Ghosts delivers secrecy, betrayal, attempted murder, and the hope of possible survivors! Including the hope that X might still be alive on the surface after 10 years...

It's another great book and I'm already halfway through Hell Divers III: Deliverance and anticipating the release of Hell Divers IV: Wolves due out in the fall!

This book is hands down Nick's best yet. A quick read, I was spellbound from the first sentence.

Once again we're pulled in to life on - and off - the Hive, an airship that's been aloft for well over two centuries. Familiar characters are present, but as the events occur ten years after Hell Divers I, there are new ones to love - and hate. Oh, and new monsters too. Nick's always good with the monsters...

This is my favourite quote: 'There was only one thing left for Michael to say. He bumped his comm pad to open a private channel to Captain Jordan and yelled, "We dive so humanity survives!"'

This is definitely one of my favourite reads of 2017. Absolutely fantastic stuff.

I can't wait for Hell Divers III.

I was so pumped for this book, I actually wrote an email to Audible complaining that I didn't have access to the book at Midnight east coast time and had to wait for the free-loading Californian's to catch up! The wait was worth it! 10 years after Hell Diver Xavier Rodriguez was left on the surface, things have changed for our characters aboard the Hive. Despite all that, there are those who prophecize that maybe Captain Jordan may be too big of a pansy to find a livable surface location, while the Captain is convinced that surface life is a pipe dream. This leads to an contentious standoff and gives us hope that a favorite character may still be kickin'! Holy crap what a book!

Hell Divers Book 1 had me sold. I love the characters and I thought the story was wholly unique for a post-apocolyptic story with a deviation from your classic zombie novel (which I also love). I loved the expansion on what the antagonists are and where they come from. Action was just as good as the first and the twists were excellent.

I like to bounce around with my reading and move from story line to story line but when I finished HD1, I immediately bought this one. The Audible book is read by R.C. Bray, which is hands down my favorite narrator for these post apocalyptic stories (e.g. Mountain Man) and I walked away with zero regrets in buying HD2 and reading immediately. Of course, in typical Smith-styled writing, now I'm ready for the third novel...like now. So be prepared for that.

I won't repeat all the plot earlier reviewers so well explained. I will just say that Nicholas Sansbury Smith has really come into his own as an author. He tells good stories in very exciting ways, leaving his readers freaking out in anticipation. His plot surprises are great, even if someone we care for has to die.
I can definitely see me getting and reading Hell Divers III and beyond as long as Smith continues the tale and continues the exciting storytelling.

(Note, purchased on Google Play)

Well..Nicholas Sandsbury Smith...you do not disappoint.

After reading book one and finishing it in just shy of 12 hours I was fortunate enough to get a credit and purchased book 2 on my phone via Google play and blew threw it in...8 hours.
Book 2 is just as much a page turner as book 1 and I have to say, I can't wait to find out what exactly will happen to the captain after all he did.

*****Spoilers*****

From the onset of the book it's surprising to see how various things over 10 years have shaped the political and militaristic structure onboard the Hive and honestly I was surprised at how a few of the characters (notably the two main female characters, LT and mags, and the main character commander tin) developed over ten years. It was interesting to find out that things are worse than it seemed in book one. I was disappointed to find out that X would only have a very minor plot point and appearance as himself and that most of the action revolves around him from a background perspective. Throughout the book the culmination of the captain's actions are closing in on him and NSS makes a great play on how it's starting to affect him and the personal ramifications from keeping such hard secrets from not only those he loves but also those he has a duty to under him. As the book progresses the seeds of rebellion are sowed throughout the decks as the captain continually makes decisions that are more Stalinist or Mafioso than military leader and it's that change in demeanor that really drives home the feeling that...this fool needs to die.

*****end spoilers*****

All in all the book is left on a cliffhanger that leave you aching for book 3...may can't come soon enough...

Verified Purchase, on the store German
Nicholas Sansbury Smith, has delivered another smash hit! Book 1 was AMAZING!. I bought book 2, thinking, I was going to get another great story... I was wrong... I enjoyed this book EVEN MORE! Amazing story, new characters, a very cool twist on the plot. I literally devoured this book in one sitting, and the best part.. an ending that just leaves you begging for more.

An amazing sequel to the first book. A lot of middle stories in a trilogy as just place holders for the finale, not this one! This story really holds its own. The story takes place 10 years after the events of Hell Divers 1, and the stakes are ever higher! Nicholas Smith really crafts a well written story that sucks you right in. The action is suspenseful, the political commentary is spot on (which was also great in the first book), and the new enemy will really give you the creeps!

The second book in the trilogy is just as good as the first. I started with the Audible version. The plot, characters, and narrator are fantastic. While I listened to this story in bumper to bumper traffic, I found myself cheering the characters on, out loud, like a crazy person. Audible is the absolute best for a long commute. More so when the book is as riveting as this one. I could not have enjoyed these books more. Cheers!

I have mixed feelings about Ghosts. On one hand, I liked the action and loved hating on the new Captain. On the other hand, there was hardly mention of the one character from the first book that I really liked, most of the story focused around minor characters from it that I didn't particularly care about, and the crazy got old pretty fast. I spent most of my time waiting for the author to get back around to the characters I wanted to hear about, and that just didn't happen. However, I will say the POV choice regarding the Captain, given the issues involved, was a good one.

The Hell Divers series is an interesting one. I love the concept that Nicholas Sansbury Smith created these novels from. A post-apocalyptic Earth is nothing new. But generally humans have migrated to the stars, or they're wandering the earth in small patches. A world where the last remaining humans are floating above the earth in giant airships? Yes, I like this! I want to read more!

Ghosts is a book filled with emotions that run the gamut from obsession to vengeance. The first book left us with a sense of hope for humanity. This one not so much. I suppose there is something to be said from the introduction at the end of the book, but the situation still feels very bleak. Readers can only hope that the author delivers a pulse-pounding return to hope and victory in the final book.

R.C. Bray does a good job narrating Ghosts. While Bray's vocal range isn't very wide, his voice is a pleasant rasp to listen to, and he is able to communicate emotions (particularly sarcasm) clearly. His delivery is well-paced and nicely suited to the science fiction and horror genres.

Overall, Ghosts was a well-written book but it didn't particularly satisfy me. It, like so many other middle-of-the-trilogy books, suffers just a bit because of it's role. I have no doubt that Nicholas Sansbury Smith is going to pull something epic in the final book, though, that will make up for the bridge that Ghosts is. And I can't wait.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of the audio book of Ghosts from Blackstone Audio for review consideration.

Loved it! ? I struggled to pace myself but it didn't work ? Competed this amazing novel in 1.5 days. I couldn't put it down! Loss of sleep, no chores done, my kids starved, and the boss was none to happy but oh boy I'd do it again and again. If only I could erase the memory of the book from my mind so I can relive it again ? It's a stupid exciting, gut wrenching, scary as hell, steering wheel squeezing thrill ride! Nicholas Sansbury Smith has done it again! And with the amazing narration of the mighty RC Bray, well, it's just amazing ?

I received an audio version of this book in exchange for an honest review.

DO NOT MISS! Just finished listening to Hell Divers II Ghost - OMG if you love action, danger, science fiction and a post apocalyptic world - Nicolas Sansbury Smith does NOT disappoint. Sometimes the monsters are more than what nightmares are made of ... sometimes they are close friends .....the narrator R.C. Bray takes on the book - he is the book! Thus making Smith and Bray an awesome team

4.5 glorious stars!

So as you may have noticed already I’m a huge fan of this series!

Don’t let the slower plot pace of book 2 deceive you!
After you finish book 1 you are almost panting for breath because of all the action.

All stories follow an arc and so do series.

Good Stories/series usually start with a bang! Then slow down while everything gets ready and tension builds for great finale

Book 2 is that part of the series. Even though there is plenty of action It feels slower compared to book 1 but once you read the entire series it all makes perfect sense! Book 2 is all about the politics brewing at The Hive and it’s the perfect glue to tie everything together

If you haven’t read book 1 you wouldn’t even think it could be “slower” than anything! It is action packed and super awesome!

However, You should read all the books in this series and do so before it hits the screens!

Because, mark my words: THERE WILL BE ONE. This series will be an EPIC Franchise. Believe me!

And this WHY you need to read this series NOW!

This work is so unique and well executed that it is a new genre! A totally new way to do Sci-fi/Apocalyptic/Dystopian/Climate fiction

1- OVERALL SERIES STORY ARC
This series’ story ARC is just epic: multigenerational, and spanning over decades.

And this is like SUPER hard to accomplish!

Here is where so many things could have gone wrong and instead we get something that is SO beautifully executed??? Everything making sense, no plot gaps, everything is properly explained!

2- THE CHARACTERS

You KNOW you are watching something marvelous unfold when the Main Character [MC] has gone MIA BUT the story continues because EVERYONE is a MC here! It’s a gang of MCs and they are all SUPERB. Plenty of heroes and heroines to swoon over. You want to be BFFs with ALL OF THEM. And hug and kiss them all despite their multiple flaws. Or maybe BECAUSE their multiple flaws!

There are villains that you will totally LOVE to hate even though they have the most altruist of motivations because they are so irritatingly stubborn and self-centered and cannot see the consequences of their actions because they are so into themselves and they have the “I’m right and everyone else is wrong attitude”

3- WORLD! The Mammoth/monstrous/many-headed hydra world built here is Out-of-This-World AWESOME! And they have been done SO MANY TIMES and still this one is so unique. THE HIIIIIVE [Siren Shriiiike]. I cannot tell you how much I love The Hive. How perfect the world building is! It. it is EVERYTHING it should be!

The monsters of this world.. just them is what is going to make this an epic movie franchise!

4- THE WRITING. Oh well. Let me just say I literally took FOREVER to finish his books because I savored every sentence

THE IMAGERY OF THIS SERIES IS AS OUTSTANDING AS EVERYTHING ELSE!!! [Siren Shrieeek]

Book 1 - Five HUGE "HELL YEAH" Stars!
Book 2- 4.5 star
Book 3 - 5,000,-star

This is an excellent sequel. The author has yet again got another success story (see what I did there) on his hands. I've been a fan of nicks for a while now and not only is he an awesome guy, he's an amazing writer. The imagination put into his books is superb and it's incredibly easy for me to immerse myself into the world that he's created. I'm extremely excited for the third instalment. The only complaint I have is that the third book isn't released until next year. Give these books a read. You won't be disappointed.

Wow! What a great next book to Hell Divers. The introduction of new characters and new environments/monsters was so natural you wouldn't have thought it was a second book (more like an extension of the first book). Again the book is perfectly written. It takes you to a whole new environment with new challenges. Great second book. I'm very exited for the 3rd book!

Let me first say that the first Hell Divers was an incredible book and if you haven't read that one first you must. With that being said, Hell Divers 2 is an intense continuation of the story. Will humanity survive or will they fall forever? This story takes place 10 years after the events of the first book. With new characters along with some old fighting for humanity it's a hell of a ride.

Here is once again a high quality continuation of the Hell Diver series, and Book Two definitely amps up the adrenaline! New twists and unexpected plot lines pleasantly took me by surprise. Some new characters, some developed characters from the first book carry on the story. And now even more myth to layer on with everything else! What can I say? Now I really can't wait for Book 3!! Again, very much recommended.

Set a decade following the first book, a new set of dangers besets the "Hive" - the last remnants of humanity aboard an airship above a devastated planet - and those who dive so that humanity survives.

Nick Smith thrusts readers into a story that has more intrigue than the first book in the Hell Divers series. Dark secrets kept by the Captain of the Hive puts everyone in peril, especially the brave who re-enter the forbidden, dangerous habitat that Earth has become by diving to it's surface to retrieve critical supplies. The mystery of the 'mutations', horrible living nightmares that hunt and kill with abandon, becomes a challenging puzzle...and the divers may have the answers...but they may never get the chance to share it; their Captain may have written them off the moment they left the sanctuary of the Hive.

Incredible adventure that digs into the nature of desperation, the very best and very worst that individuals can exhibit, hope in the midst of chaos and doubles down with military sci-fi that compliments the first book very well and leaves readers looking for book three - coming soon I hope!

I read Book 1 fairly quickly, and when I saw Book 2 was coming out, it was a gift from heaven (Team Angel?). The sequels are sometimes a letdown, but this sequel was really on point. I like that we stay in the world but see some different aspects, too. It's a nice, quick read, too, because Smith keeps the action rolling, as always. I would highly recommend.

After finishing the first book I had to run out and grab this one, I don't think the bookstore liked me showing up 5 mins before closing time. But I had to know what happened after the first book. The second book didn't let up more action more heart pounding excitement.

I really enjoyed the sequel to "Hell Divers" by Nicholas Sanbury Smith, and found it to be a great listen. I enjoyed the characters and really pulled for them during their latest mission. Without giving away too much of the plot, I did find myself expecting someone to show up out of the blue to save the day, and though that didn't happen, my only complaint was the deus ex machina of the Bastion. All in all, i loved it and look forward to the 3rd installment.

Outstanding follow up in every way you could have hoped for after the shockingly impressive first book. Every scene that starts HD2 creates strong interest in the characters lives going forward while also setting up serious conflict to come. Hell Divers is what post-apocalyptic fans deserve: a fresh setting that drives forward with powerful characters and an unrelenting mission to save humanity against crazy odds. I mean seriously crazy. Wait till you meet the ghosts...

This review includes having listened to the audiobook, which was once again nailed to the wall by R.C. Bray. It helps when the best in the biz shows up to make one amazing series that much better. I also bought the hardback because that cover is killer. The way it pops when you look at it in person makes for quite the collectable.

Amazing sequel to the first book. I didn't think I could hate a character as bad as I did of Jordan. The relationships between the characters was spot on. OMG, the Sirens and the other mutated species. Those things were creepy. Cannot wait for HD3 to come out!

Not quite as much fun as the first book, but not as bad as a second of three can be. Kinda knew where it was all headed so it seemed to take a while to get there. But certainly willing to go on to the third.

Loved the first book and the second was even better. Prepare to be even more immersed in a world of treachery, action, heartbreak, and a little romance sprinkled in for good measure. Not only do emotions run high but mix that with danger lurking behind every corner both in the sky and on the devastated earth below and you have a recipe for an amazing story.

Can't wait for the next installment.

Once again this book leaves hanging in there till the end and makes you feel as though you are really living and breathing it along side Tin and X and the rest of the team and shipmates can not wait till the next one

Series just gets better and better with each entry. The character development is on point making you feel for them or just wanting to punch them. This book was one I couldn't stop listening to. R.C. Bray just nails each character with his narration. I really can't describe how well done this book is. Just need to sit down and read it or just listen to the talented R.C Bray.

Really loved this book just as good as the frist one. But did have some issues with some people living way they did not trying give no spoilers but all in all great book with lots of action and can't wait for the next one!!!!

An amazing sequel to the first book. A lot of middle stories in a trilogy as just place holders for the finale, not this one! This story really holds its own. The story takes place 10 years after the events of Hell Divers 1, and the stakes are ever higher! Nicholas Smith really crafts a well written story that sucks you right in. The action is suspenseful, the political commentary is spot on (which was also great in the first book), and the new enemy will really give you the creeps!

This is an excellent follow up to book 1. Nicholas Sansbury Smith has become one of my favorite authors! I am loving this series so far. Lots of action! It's not your typical post apocalyptic series. This series takes place 250 years after WW3. Humanity has been forced to live in sky ships where it is safer. The planet is full of mutated life and electrical storms. This is one of those books you just can't put down! Great narration by R. C. Bray! He is one of the best narrators out there in my opinion. Looking forward to book 3!

The second book in the trilogy is just as good as the first. I started with the Audible version. The plot, characters, and narrator are fantastic. While I listened to this story in bumper to bumper traffic, I found myself cheering the characters on, out loud, like a crazy person. Audible is the absolute best for a long commute. More so when the book is as riveting as this one. I could not have enjoyed these books more. Cheers!

I have mixed feelings about Ghosts. On one hand, I liked the action and loved hating on the new Captain. On the other hand, there was hardly mention of the one character from the first book that I really liked, most of the story focused around minor characters from it that I didn't particularly care about, and the crazy got old pretty fast. I spent most of my time waiting for the author to get back around to the characters I wanted to hear about, and that just didn't happen. However, I will say the POV choice regarding the Captain, given the issues involved, was a good one.

The Hell Divers series is an interesting one. I love the concept that Nicholas Sansbury Smith created these novels from. A post-apocalyptic Earth is nothing new. But generally humans have migrated to the stars, or they're wandering the earth in small patches. A world where the last remaining humans are floating above the earth in giant airships? Yes, I like this! I want to read more!

Ghosts is a book filled with emotions that run the gamut from obsession to vengeance. The first book left us with a sense of hope for humanity. This one not so much. I suppose there is something to be said from the introduction at the end of the book, but the situation still feels very bleak. Readers can only hope that the author delivers a pulse-pounding return to hope and victory in the final book.

R.C. Bray does a good job narrating Ghosts. While Bray's vocal range isn't very wide, his voice is a pleasant rasp to listen to, and he is able to communicate emotions (particularly sarcasm) clearly. His delivery is well-paced and nicely suited to the science fiction and horror genres.

Overall, Ghosts was a well-written book but it didn't particularly satisfy me. It, like so many other middle-of-the-trilogy books, suffers just a bit because of it's role. I have no doubt that Nicholas Sansbury Smith is going to pull something epic in the final book, though, that will make up for the bridge that Ghosts is. And I can't wait.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of the audio book of Ghosts from Blackstone Audio for review consideration.

Loved it! ? I struggled to pace myself but it didn't work ? Competed this amazing novel in 1.5 days. I couldn't put it down! Loss of sleep, no chores done, my kids starved, and the boss was none to happy but oh boy I'd do it again and again. If only I could erase the memory of the book from my mind so I can relive it again ? It's a stupid exciting, gut wrenching, scary as hell, steering wheel squeezing thrill ride! Nicholas Sansbury Smith has done it again! And with the amazing narration of the mighty RC Bray, well, it's just amazing ?

I received an audio version of this book in exchange for an honest review.

DO NOT MISS! Just finished listening to Hell Divers II Ghost - OMG if you love action, danger, science fiction and a post apocalyptic world - Nicolas Sansbury Smith does NOT disappoint. Sometimes the monsters are more than what nightmares are made of ... sometimes they are close friends .....the narrator R.C. Bray takes on the book - he is the book! Thus making Smith and Bray an awesome team

4.5 glorious stars!

So as you may have noticed already I’m a huge fan of this series!

Don’t let the slower plot pace of book 2 deceive you!
After you finish book 1 you are almost panting for breath because of all the action.

All stories follow an arc and so do series.

Good Stories/series usually start with a bang! Then slow down while everything gets ready and tension builds for great finale

Book 2 is that part of the series. Even though there is plenty of action It feels slower compared to book 1 but once you read the entire series it all makes perfect sense! Book 2 is all about the politics brewing at The Hive and it’s the perfect glue to tie everything together

If you haven’t read book 1 you wouldn’t even think it could be “slower” than anything! It is action packed and super awesome!

However, You should read all the books in this series and do so before it hits the screens!

Because, mark my words: THERE WILL BE ONE. This series will be an EPIC Franchise. Believe me!

And this WHY you need to read this series NOW!

This work is so unique and well executed that it is a new genre! A totally new way to do Sci-fi/Apocalyptic/Dystopian/Climate fiction

1- OVERALL SERIES STORY ARC
This series’ story ARC is just epic: multigenerational, and spanning over decades.

And this is like SUPER hard to accomplish!

Here is where so many things could have gone wrong and instead we get something that is SO beautifully executed??? Everything making sense, no plot gaps, everything is properly explained!

2- THE CHARACTERS

You KNOW you are watching something marvelous unfold when the Main Character [MC] has gone MIA BUT the story continues because EVERYONE is a MC here! It’s a gang of MCs and they are all SUPERB. Plenty of heroes and heroines to swoon over. You want to be BFFs with ALL OF THEM. And hug and kiss them all despite their multiple flaws. Or maybe BECAUSE their multiple flaws!

There are villains that you will totally LOVE to hate even though they have the most altruist of motivations because they are so irritatingly stubborn and self-centered and cannot see the consequences of their actions because they are so into themselves and they have the “I’m right and everyone else is wrong attitude”

3- WORLD! The Mammoth/monstrous/many-headed hydra world built here is Out-of-This-World AWESOME! And they have been done SO MANY TIMES and still this one is so unique. THE HIIIIIVE [Siren Shriiiike]. I cannot tell you how much I love The Hive. How perfect the world building is! It. it is EVERYTHING it should be!

The monsters of this world.. just them is what is going to make this an epic movie franchise!

4- THE WRITING. Oh well. Let me just say I literally took FOREVER to finish his books because I savored every sentence

THE IMAGERY OF THIS SERIES IS AS OUTSTANDING AS EVERYTHING ELSE!!! [Siren Shrieeek]

Book 1 - Five HUGE "HELL YEAH" Stars!
Book 2- 4.5 star
Book 3 - 5,000,-star

This is an excellent sequel. The author has yet again got another success story (see what I did there) on his hands. I've been a fan of nicks for a while now and not only is he an awesome guy, he's an amazing writer. The imagination put into his books is superb and it's incredibly easy for me to immerse myself into the world that he's created. I'm extremely excited for the third instalment. The only complaint I have is that the third book isn't released until next year. Give these books a read. You won't be disappointed.

Wow! What a great next book to Hell Divers. The introduction of new characters and new environments/monsters was so natural you wouldn't have thought it was a second book (more like an extension of the first book). Again the book is perfectly written. It takes you to a whole new environment with new challenges. Great second book. I'm very exited for the 3rd book!

Years have past and the Hive is all but falling apart. A new group of Hell Divers as stepped up to take the job. This time however they dive for more then just parts, they dive for answers. Just as good as the first book and the story gets deeper as we find out what has happened to some of the people that was secretly left on the surface.

Let me first say that the first Hell Divers was an incredible book and if you haven't read that one first you must. With that being said, Hell Divers 2 is an intense continuation of the story. Will humanity survive or will they fall forever? This story takes place 10 years after the events of the first book. With new characters along with some old fighting for humanity it's a hell of a ride.

Here is once again a high quality continuation of the Hell Diver series, and Book Two definitely amps up the adrenaline! New twists and unexpected plot lines pleasantly took me by surprise. Some new characters, some developed characters from the first book carry on the story. And now even more myth to layer on with everything else! What can I say? Now I really can't wait for Book 3!! Again, very much recommended.

After waiting a year I got the second installment of the series via audible and I dove (pun intended) right into it! The author sure knows how to tell a good story and RC Bray as usual knocks it out of the ball park with his narrative brilliance. I am a truck driver and I drive 3300 miles a week every. When I got this book on Audible I listened to it straight thru it and got a lot of miles done that day! I know it's going to be another year for the next installment but this driver will be anxiously awaiting it!

Set a decade following the first book, a new set of dangers besets the "Hive" - the last remnants of humanity aboard an airship above a devastated planet - and those who dive so that humanity survives.

Nick Smith thrusts readers into a story that has more intrigue than the first book in the Hell Divers series. Dark secrets kept by the Captain of the Hive puts everyone in peril, especially the brave who re-enter the forbidden, dangerous habitat that Earth has become by diving to it's surface to retrieve critical supplies. The mystery of the 'mutations', horrible living nightmares that hunt and kill with abandon, becomes a challenging puzzle...and the divers may have the answers...but they may never get the chance to share it; their Captain may have written them off the moment they left the sanctuary of the Hive.

Incredible adventure that digs into the nature of desperation, the very best and very worst that individuals can exhibit, hope in the midst of chaos and doubles down with military sci-fi that compliments the first book very well and leaves readers looking for book three - coming soon I hope!

I read Book 1 fairly quickly, and when I saw Book 2 was coming out, it was a gift from heaven (Team Angel?). The sequels are sometimes a letdown, but this sequel was really on point. I like that we stay in the world but see some different aspects, too. It's a nice, quick read, too, because Smith keeps the action rolling, as always. I would highly recommend.

After finishing the first book I had to run out and grab this one, I don't think the bookstore liked me showing up 5 mins before closing time. But I had to know what happened after the first book. The second book didn't let up more action more heart pounding excitement.

You liked HD1? You're gonna love HD2.
The intrigue, deceit and conniving from HD1 leads to more examples of courage, fortitude and survival for the divers.
It has great insight into the flaws of the common man that are overcome and managed to succeed.
You may feel a little claustrophobic in that drop tube but after landing you'll wish you were back in it (read the book and you'll understand what I mean).

Outstanding follow up in every way you could have hoped for after the shockingly impressive first book. Every scene that starts HD2 creates strong interest in the characters lives going forward while also setting up serious conflict to come. Hell Divers is what post-apocalyptic fans deserve: a fresh setting that drives forward with powerful characters and an unrelenting mission to save humanity against crazy odds. I mean seriously crazy. Wait till you meet the ghosts...

This review includes having listened to the audiobook, which was once again nailed to the wall by R.C. Bray. It helps when the best in the biz shows up to make one amazing series that much better. I also bought the hardback because that cover is killer. The way it pops when you look at it in person makes for quite the collectable.

Amazing sequel to the first book. I didn't think I could hate a character as bad as I did of Jordan. The relationships between the characters was spot on. OMG, the Sirens and the other mutated species. Those things were creepy. Cannot wait for HD3 to come out!

For sure, 100%, guaranteed to love if you enjoyed the first book. Though with it being set 10 years later it would skip some details but I was wrong. New characters and new plot twists kept me itching to turn the page. Can’t wait for book 3

Hell Divers 2: Ghosts is set 10 years after the original Hell Divers.  X was left for and presumed dead on the surface of the Earth.  Since then a whole new group of Hell Divers has risen up from the ashes. A new captain is in charge of the ship and they don't dive into Red Zones anymore.  But all of that is about to change. 

This story jumps right back into the footsteps of the last book.  Smith has a way of writing that sucks you in and keeps you on the edge of seat throughout.  Fans of the first book will definitely enjoy this one.  The cast of characters is a little different with a few familiar faces.  I particularly enjoyed reading out X's adopted son "Tin" and his new adventures as a Hell Diver and an adult. 

Smith wrote a lot about struggles in this book.  The struggle to stay alive (on numerous accounts), the struggle to keep the ship up, the struggle against mutiny, and the struggle for self-preservation.  I like that this book had an overarching feeling of a struggle because humans struggle, especially ones that weren't meant to be airborne for 200 years on end.  

The great R.C. Bray narrated Hell Divers 2: Ghosts, and did a heck of a job.  His voice has the perfect range of the types of characters that Smith writes about and at times he really becomes these people.   

Overall, Ghosts was a great read that I finished in a couple sittings. I couldn't put it down and now I'm anxiously awaiting the third book to be released (and recorded by Bray, I hope!)

This is book 2, and while I try to stay away from spoilers, I could accidentally spoil something for those who haven't read book 1 yet, so read at your own peril!!

Set 10 years after the last book, this sees everyone aboard the Hive believing that X died, but one man knows the truth and will do anything necessary to keep his secret. The young Tin isn't so young anymore and is now a Hell Diver like his father and X. When Magnolia is though to have found out a devastating secret, she is sent on a mission and ultimately ends up falling to the earth. Michael, aka Tin, and his team mate Rodger believe she is still alive and, despite the objections from the Captain, dive down to find her. Will they survive the wasteland the earth has become?

The ending of book 1 left me with a hole in my heart so I couldn't wait to dive into this straight away!! Once again, the author grabs you from the start and doesn't let go till the bitter end!!! I couldn't read this fast enough, yet I didn't want it to end. My poor, poor heart took a beating with this one! A certain character and what was happening to him had me on the edge of my seat, and when I got to the end of the book, I was cursing the author for not having him in it enough!! But it also made me extra excited for book 3 because I can sorta see where this is going, well it's more that I'm hoping I know where this is going! There's two characters I want to meet each other and I'm hoping and praying they do!! Sorry if that sounds vague but I don't do spoilers!!

This one focuses on Team Raptor. Michael is the head Diver and is doing it to honour his dad. Plus, things are getting pretty bad on the ship and resources are getting thin. The lower decks are seconds away from revolting and the Divers are the only ones who can help. When one of the team, Magnolia, is lost, the Captain sends down a small team to retrieve some much needed power cells that are in the red zone near where she fell. He tells the team that their main priority is to find the equipment and if they have time then they can look for Magnolia. Michael isn't one of the initial ones to go, but he learns something that shocks him to the core and dives down to the earth. Team Raptor set off into the heart of Hell, to find Magnolia and to learn the truth that the captain has kept hidden!

I loved Team Raptor! While I was disappointed that we didn't get to see one of my favourite characters, I still ended up loving all the new ones! Michael has grown into an amazing person. He is brave, strong and fights for what is right, no matter the consequences. Magnolia is as sassy as ever! She is awesome and I'm hoping she realises that there is a certain someone who is perfect for her!! I also loved Rodger. He is quite the character :) Once again, this author excels in the way he develops his characters. They are all relateable and ones you can't help but love. They get under your skin!! Lol. He also writes loathsome bad people. The captain is one of the worst and I hated him!!

In all, this book is non stop! This author is a master storyteller and is firmly on my auto buy list. If you love heart stopping action and adventure, jawdropping secrets and twists, monsters galore and characters that will steal your heart, then this is a series for you!! I highly, highly recommend!! "We dive so humanity survives"

R.C Bray is phenomenal!! I don't think there's any other word to describe him to be honest. The atmosphere... the fear and panic the characters felt, was brought alive with his performance. Every character was clearly defined and had their own tone. He is one of the best, and it shows!!

This second installment in the Hell Divers Trilogy was nothing like what I expected based on the first entry. After waiting a year for this second installment I was surprised at the direction but more than that I was yet again drawn into this world that Mr. Smith has created for his readers. Full of political intrigue, a sprinkle of romance, and the vivid action that Mr. Smith is so adept at putting his readers right in the middle of, makes this second Hell Divers entry hard to put down. I began reading this second entry in the Hell Divers trilogy with some trepidation as the first entry is among my favorite stories Mr. Smith has written, I was afraid I would be disappointed, but true to fashion Mr. Smith not only did not disappoint but penned a second entry that to my surprise I loved more than the first. I cannot say enough good things about this story, full of great characters, vividly detailed descriptions, and a story that is refreshingly creative as well as original. If you don’t read anything else by Mr. Smith, you should read these Hell Divers stories.

Excellent story from beginning to end..lots and lots of action..killer cliffhanger..the Writting is the best...I loved book 1 but this book 2 surpassed that..congrats go out to the author for nailing this..way to go Nicholas!!!

The second instalment of Hell Divers lifts off to new hights. I do enjoyed the book throughout but i also feel again a little off from the 5star mark. I keep on feeling that with such a brilliant idea of virtually unlimited possibilities ahead, the plot is short of realizing the full potential of the main idea. A solid 4 though is in place and a highly recomended reading as far as i am concerned.

Another hit from Nick. Cant wait for Hell Divers III. All of this guys books are an enjoyment to read. Take a pinch of fact add a little fiction stir in drama and bake till action, and out pops another great book by Mr. Smith

Ten years after book 2 begins with a bang and just keeps on going. You get drawn into the action and adventure presented to you by an amazing storyteller. Take a chance get this series you won't be disappointed

Exciting story that is unique.Strong characters struggling to survive in airship over a nuclear wasteland. Plenty of high levels of danger with exciting danger. Looking forward to next book. Cannot come quick enough.

Captain Jordan has a secret – well several, and they are about to be revealed!  Tin has grown into a strong man and is Commander of the Hell Diver Raptor Team.  Magnolia continues as the fastest Hell Diver of the Raptor Team but makes the ultimate sacrifice.  Hell Diver Xavier Rodriguez (X) has been missing for 10 years from an ill-fated return to the ship.  They all have one thing in common – a secret that Captain Jordan does not want revealed and will stop at nothing to eliminate the risk of exposure.

Every man, woman, and child on the ship are at risk.  Secrets are close to being revealed and those that know them are now on the ground facing even scarier and deadlier creatures than the sirens.  Nothing and no-one is safe.

The apocalyptic future that Nicolas Sansbury Smith paints for humankind is horrendous and beyond description.  Smith gives us monsters that are fierce and rule the earth – but he further shows us just how far one person can go and will do to protect their beliefs and wants.  Not all monsters that lurk in the shadows are what nightmares are made of, but rather the two-legged human kinds are sometimes a thousand times more evil, deadly and ferocious than the creatures roaming the earth’s surface in this series.

Smith is a masterful story-teller that keeps his fans riveted to their ear buds (headphones, etc.).  The bold, never-ending action and danger is gripping. This is a series that one can lose one’s self in and never want it to end.  “They dive so humanity survives”– that small phrase describes the book and its action perfectly.

R.C. Bray is perfect for this series.  He captures the grittiness of each character and projects each character fully simply through his voice.  He adds to the story, making it one of the most difficult books to walk away from until the end.  Even then, his voice will haunt you – you will hear the voices of each character long after you finish the book.  Talented and skilled at narration, both R.C. Bray and Nicolas Sansbury Smith make an awesome team!

There were no issues with the quality or production of this audiobook.

Audiobook was provided for review by the author.

Please find this complete review and many others at my review blog

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What an intense, exciting, scary story. Hell Divers was the first audible book I had listen to by this author. It was so good, I listened to everything he had out there. Extinction Series deserves a special recommendation. (Waited impatiently for Hell Divers: II.). It did not let me down. The characters are well developed and their terrifying journey is told outstandingly. Hard to believe that one person could be all those characters. Wish He'll Divers III was out. If your looking for a roller coaster ride, this series won't let you down.

This is an excellent follow up to book 1. Nicholas Sansbury Smith has become one of my favorite authors! I am loving this series so far. Lots of action! It's not your typical post apocalyptic series. This series takes place 250 years after WW3. Humanity has been forced to live in sky ships where it is safer. The planet is full of mutated life and electrical storms. This is one of those books you just can't put down! Great narration by R. C. Bray! He is one of the best narrators out there in my opinion. Looking forward to book 3!

Years have past and the Hive is all but falling apart. A new group of Hell Divers as stepped up to take the job. This time however they dive for more then just parts, they dive for answers. Just as good as the first book and the story gets deeper as we find out what has happened to some of the people that was secretly left on the surface.

After waiting a year I got the second installment of the series via audible and I dove (pun intended) right into it! The author sure knows how to tell a good story and RC Bray as usual knocks it out of the ball park with his narrative brilliance. I am a truck driver and I drive 3300 miles a week every. When I got this book on Audible I listened to it straight thru it and got a lot of miles done that day! I know it's going to be another year for the next installment but this driver will be anxiously awaiting it!

You liked HD1? You're gonna love HD2.
The intrigue, deceit and conniving from HD1 leads to more examples of courage, fortitude and survival for the divers.
It has great insight into the flaws of the common man that are overcome and managed to succeed.
You may feel a little claustrophobic in that drop tube but after landing you'll wish you were back in it (read the book and you'll understand what I mean).

Just finished this one on audible after I read the first on my way home from a deployment. All I can say is that I’m hooked on the series now and can’t wait to start the next one in the series. It’s one of the few post apocalyptic books I can actually get into because it keeps you wanting more with every chapter. Please keep the series going since it’s such a great one to read.

Hell Divers 2 is another fantastic read, Nicholas Sainsbury Smith does it again, this book was well written and has me feeling like I'm in the book as it happens. My favorite character from this book is Tin.

Hell Divers 2 continues to provide the reader with a harrowing image of mankind on the verge of extinction, where the only thing standing between humanity and certain death is a few brave men and women chosen to potentially lay down their lives so that humanity survives. I loved every minute of it and have already put in a pre-order for book 3, due May 18.

Such an amazing sequel to the first. Like the first, I just did not want to put this book down. The story line is unique and highly engaging. I can't wait for the third book to come out....I have to know about my favorite character. I would highly recommend this book. If you haven't read the first then I would say you definitely owe it to yourself to do so. I look forward to reading other books from this author while I anxiously wait the next!

another amazing installment. like the first book, I found it quickly consuming my free time. all of it. getting to see a grown version of tin was fun, and there were several characters I loved, as well as hated. Mr smith has a way of bringing these characters to life and making them real, and the suspense had me until the very end. an amazing book

I really enjoyed the sequel to "Hell Divers" by Nicholas Sanbury Smith, and found it to be a great listen. I enjoyed the characters and really pulled for them during their latest mission. Without giving away too much of the plot, I did find myself expecting someone to show up out of the blue to save the day, and though that didn't happen, my only complaint was the deus ex machina of the Bastion. All in all, i loved it and look forward to the 3rd installment.

For sure, 100%, guaranteed to love if you enjoyed the first book. Though with it being set 10 years later it would skip some details but I was wrong. New characters and new plot twists kept me itching to turn the page. Can’t wait for book 3