Urchin

Lamentations for the Fallen, Book 1

By: Mark Goodwin

Narrated by: Joe Geoffrey

Length: 8 hrs and 14 mins

Publisher's summary

"How lonely sits the city that was full of people. How like a widow is she, who was great among the nations. The princess among the provinces has become a slave." (Lamentations 1:1)

Caleb Webb is the dictionary definition of disadvantaged, and surviving on his own is nothing new. When the apocalypse hits, his rugged skill set for staying alive on the mean streets of Los Angeles comes in handy. Unfortunately, he's on a collision course with the worst criminal cartel in the city, unless someone intervenes.

After his addict mother dies of a fentanyl overdose, Caleb is forced to strike out on his own. He’s hit with the reality that the lifestyle he’s been living and the one that was modeled for him at home are both dead ends. Being catapulted into homelessness, Caleb determines not to get sucked into the despair and poverty that are ravishing the city of Los Angeles.

Caleb is willing to put aside his delinquent ways and work hard to make a better life for himself. However, no one has ever taught him what it means to be a respectable citizen or how to have a solid work ethic.

His dogged determination finally lands him a position working as a construction laborer. He dedicates himself to learning the trade and quickly wins the respect of his co-workers. Unfortunately, soaring inflation strikes the US economy with a catastrophic blow. Caleb’s employer is forced to shutter the business as are so many others.
Caleb is unable to find work and risks going back to the streets. When he happens upon an opportunity to continue providing for his basic needs, Caleb slips back into criminal behaviors in order to survive.

Yet, something or someone won’t let him have any peace as long as he is involved in these illicit activities. He has few options. Z-Bub, the gangland kingpin that Caleb has fallen in with, is comfortable with violence and no stranger to killing those who cross him. If Caleb does the right thing, it could cost him his life. If he doesn’t, he fears it may cost him his soul. Whatever he decides, he’ll have to reach his conclusion amidst the backdrop of rolling blackouts, a complete currency collapse, food shortages, and a society that is coming unglued.

Don't miss this action-packed post-apocalyptic thriller set in America's near future. Get your copy today!

As with all works by Mark Goodwin, this book contains no profanity and no embarrassing sex scenes. However, if you're offended by conservative principles and references to Scripture, this book might not be for you.

©2023 Mark Goodwin (P)2023 Mark Goodwin

A world collapse.

Wow, it is so amazing that this book could be the reality of today! I really enjoyed the book and will need to listen to it again, and send it to family members.

Held me captive

I couldn’t put it down so had to buy the audible version also. Great story. Thanks for sharing

I couldn’t hardly go to sleep.

Wow what a great story. I didn’t want to stop listening to go to sleep. The main character Caleb stole my heart. He is a good kid stuck in a bad place. Thank God for helping him through it all. I can’t wait for the sequel to come out. Loved the new voice reading.

One of my new favorites!

A totally different story compared to many of Mark Goodwin's work, but I really enjoyed this one!

Awesome.

I have read almost all of Mark’s books. This was one of my favorites. The characters and story were very solid.

Great Book!

I have always loved Mark Goodwin! His books are amazing and he does great research for his books. The aspect of God and getting your life in order before the crisis hits the fan in our country is great and even being a fictional novelist he’s got some great insights and tips. Definitely worth checking out all of his books I have read or listened to all of his books and I have never been disappointed. He always steps up and writes amazing books. You won’t regret listening to them. God bless you Mark Goodwin! Love your work!

Another awesome book

The narrator you picked for this did an outstanding job!
Please continue to put out thousands of books just as you’ve done.

Very good listen

The only thing I can say that is negative is it ended to soon. I'm looking forward to the next one

Another hits the mark

Excellent read! Up to date, relevant and different approach making it fresh. It’s not like reading the same book again with each new release. The fact this author keeps churning out one great read after another without resorting to foul language and gratuitous sex puts him over the top. I highly recommend this title.

Best book yet

I love all of Mark’s book, but this is my new favorite. For me this book was very entertaining. I loved all the cities and details to the story. Both very well told and read. Great new narrator. Took me 2 chapters to get to like Joe, but he won me over. Can’t wait for the next one.