State of Nature

Book Three of The Park Service Trilogy

By: Ryan Winfield

Narrated by: Michael Braun

Length: 11 hrs and 57 mins

Publisher's Summary

The final adventure...

After leaving the Isle of Man, Aubrey and Jimmy return to the Foundation to confront Hannah about her betrayal and to free the people of Holocene II only to find themselves facing new and more difficult challenges in a world where nothing is as it seems.

©2013 Ryan Winfield (P)2014 Ryan Winfield

Surprisingly Good

If you could sum up State of Nature in three words, what would they be? Surprisingly Good What does Michael Braun bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book? I do not know this narrator's age, but his voice is ideal for narrating a book in which a young man is the main character. He's a good reader with a pleasant voice. I'd definitely be drawn to a book he narrated in the future. Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you? The most moving point in the book, I would hope that everyone agrees, was the moment Aubrey made his choice at the matchmaking ceremony. The author handled this beautifully, and the twist was fantastic. Any additional comments? I bought the first book of this trilogy in one of Audible's sales, even though I'd never heard of it before, and had never read one of Winfield's books. The conceit is different enough to keep things interesting, and the characters (both good and bad) are compelling enough to keep the reader engaged. The second book was good, the first book was better than the second, and the third (this one) is the best of the three.

amazing

well, what can I say. this was the last book where everything came together and all the questions were

captivating story, very sad ending

overall a solid, sad, yet fitting end to a captivating trilogy. tho Aubrey is frustratingly naive thru the end of the series, remembering he's a 15 then 16 year old kid helps put it into perspective.

Wow, this last book was all suspense and tears

I am surprised at how emotional this last book was for me. Intense highs and lows. Suspense and heartache. I literally cried several times and both loved and bitterly hated the ending

la mejor serie que lei. the best series ive read

you will love this story. its thrilling concise and has great characters. perfecr in its simplicity and with great twists

Please read this series

This so good and made me wish I had a friendship this strong. It made me cry laugh and live with the characters. I would recommend this to everyone. Love love love!

Wow

It has been a long time since I have wept sincerely at the end of a book like this. I loved it.

A fantastic finish to a good story!

What did you love best about State of Nature?

I really enjoyed that I was unable to predict what came next. The basis of the story is unique as it is a story about survival, coming of age, compassion, and growth. As a science fiction fan, I have to admit that the non-science fiction components did not take away from the enjoyment of this book.

What was one of the most memorable moments of State of Nature?

For me, the most memorable moment was when Aubrey realized what the State of Nature really was, what it meant, and how to make sure it got off to a good start. So basically the last three chapters of the book, and the epilogue.

Which scene was your favorite?

Honestly, the epilogue where Aubrey comes out of the valley. The first and only book to bring me to tears when Aubrey returns to the cove.

If you were to make a film of this book, what would the tag line be?

This is the final battle of the last war

Any additional comments?

I loved this trilogy. I only gave the story 4/5 stars as for me the love story took away from the sci-fi that I enjoy so much, but make no mistake, every thing in this book blends so seem lesson that I cannot deny the pleasure of listening to it. A unique blend with a unique take on the aftermath of World War 3.

The BEST Dystopian series yet on Audible

I've listened to most YA Dystopian Novels that are popular now, The Hunger Games, The Giver, Fahrenheit 451,Wool,Divergent, and The Maze Runner, but this is by far the most engaging and memorable. ..To Ryan Winfield - More please!!

Awesome read!!!

Such a great read!!! This series has been such a journey. Warning - If you do not want to end up an ugly-crying- sobbing mess, DO NOT READ THE EPILOGUE!!!!! I was completely devastated by the epilogue!

I have always felt the heart of this story is the friendship between Aubrey and Jimmy. They are so loyal to each other, and sacrifice at every turn. Pretty much the whole time they stay at each other's side. The platonic "I Love You" scene is touching. It really shows the depth of their relationship.

The book is all from Aubrey's POV, again, and you get to see how he isn't trying to be a hero, just do the right thing. Hannah is as crazy as her father, such hatred for no reason.

With any Dystopian series, things are mostly grim, you see sparks of hope, only to have them stamped out. This journey breaks your heart more than one. The second book was tough, losing the people on the Isle of Man, Junior and a possible love interest for Jimmy. Reading the books all together, that wound is still fresh. This book rips those wounds open and throws a little salt in as well.

There are may twists and turns revealed, one I suspected, others were a shock. Truly engaging and dynamic story telling kept the story moving, even when the action was at a lull. I loved every minute of the journey, even the ones that had me in tears. This story highlights the worst of man and the best of us as well. One of my favorite quotes was "Would I give up innocence for wisdom", it is one of the key themes for Aubrey. It is a wonder he trusts anyone in the end.

I listened to the audiobook narrated by Michael Braun, who delivers a wonderful read. He has consistent and distinct voices throughout the read. My only real complaint is that the pace is very slow, even when I sped it up in the app. Fortunately that did not effect the energy of the story throughout the read. I love his tone, especially when he is reading for Jimmy. He adds just the perfect touches to bringing the tale to life. I am definitely looking for more of his reads.

This series has been such a delight and heartbreak at the same time. When I requested a copy from the author, I really did not know what I was in for. This is one of those stories and characters that will stay with me a long time. When I think of them, there will be tears and smiles. These kinds of books are made to make you stop and think. I can only how that the powerful message is delivered to many young people.

Disclosure - I received a copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts, opinions and ratings are my own.