Zero Sum: A Post-Apocalyptic Economic and Societal Collapse Thriller

Civil Strife Series, Book One

By: Matthew J O'Connor

Narrated by: Mackenzie Summers

Length: 8 hrs and 23 mins

Publisher's summary

An act of terrorism brings the financial system to a grinding halt. Premeditated violence and waves of unrest sweep across the continent. In a time of polarization and distrust, a more sinister force is behind this attempt to bring about a new America. However, this political subterfuge is met with violent opposition.

In the confusion, the coast-to-coast chaos takes on a life of its own, bringing about a sudden collapse of American civilization. The two warring factions leave millions caught within a zero sum game, with each individual finding themselves fighting for survival in a complete societal and economic collapse.

This pause-resister, the first entry into the Civil Strife Series, will keep you at the edge of your seat with each twist. An unexpected attack on the fabric of US society quickly unravels into an all-out fight for survival. Those that are caught in the middle are left reeling as they try to adjust to a new normal and navigate a fractured society that is more divided than ever.

©2021 Matthew J O'Connor (P)2021 Matthew J O'Connor

Love the financial aspect!

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to getting the rest of the series! I love that this book includes the financial aspect of the collapse; it makes it more believable, in my opinion. My only criticism is that Mackenzie Summers, though a perfectly capable narrator, may not be the right choice for this book. Of course, that may just be my personal preference.

Great story, terribly narrated

Ms. Summers should prepare better or something. First, learn how to pronounce "indices" then read the story with proper inflection and more appropriate pauses. Maybe a little research on the financial markets before she tries to convey the story.

A Steering Wheel Gripper From the Start

I listened to this while driving from Arizona to Texas. During that time I almost ran out of gas because I didn't want to interrupt the story. Zero Sum's story line is gripping from the start and progresses right up until the end. The narration is also very well-done and keeps the listener fully engaged throughout the story. The plot itself, while fiction, describes a completely plausible set of circumstances that could come about at any time. This also causes one to consider, "What would I do?" or, "How would I react?" Answering those questions is not easy, but this story almost forces the listener to do just that, which, in this day and age, is not a bad thing.

Way too much time spent on the financial stuff

Not interesting at all because it rarely covers the aspect of the family trying to survive. I didn’t care about all the financial or political aspects of the collapse.

Fun and entertaining!!

I first listened to a sample of this book on the authors podcast Silver Fortune, and was hooked right away! The story has it all, well rounded characters, suspense, some action and what i believe to be a few budding romances.

Give this book a listen. I can’t wait for the next one!

Great

I thought this was such a great story I like the aspect of the point of view of everything unfolding

How ever

Every other paragraph the phrase how ever was used it was so annoying Beyond annoying! Also had a hard time figuring out who was talking she needs to change her voice a bit with each character

Good story, less than desirable narration and editing

The story is good with adequate details to keep you enthralled and less overwhelmed by aspects not easily understood. The narration and editing is less than desirable. Several cuts with loud white noise dot the entirety of the narration. This needs better editing on the narrator.

good book

I enjoyed this as a background book for listening at work I can't wait for the next one