failed states
by justin o’donnell
In an America on the edge of extinction, Thomas La Stella serves as a Deportation Force officer.
Tom is old enough to remember America before Dayton Day, the attack that finally brought the country to its knees, and the earth towards its death. Still fighting for hope, Tom clings to his pregnant wife, Riley, and begrudgingly serves a government on the brink of revolution. When the president of the country goes missing, a new, radical force rises from within and threatens every hope Tom has for a better future.
In Failed States by Justin O'Donnell, we experience a grim, fast-paced speculative thriller in the vein of Cormac McCarthy's The Road. It is a tale that deals with political, religious, and violent themes ranging from cannibalism to abortion, while calling into question the fundamental clash between security and liberty.
WHAT READERS SAY
“Failed States is a compelling and important addition to the dystopian genre. O'Donnell's masterful storytelling combined with his exploration of profound themes make this a novel that lingers in the mind long after the final page. It is a stark reminder of the fragile nature of civilization and a call to reflect on the choices we make as a society. If you enjoy thought-provoking speculative fiction that pushes the boundaries, Failed States is a must-read.”
— Gavin
“It feels all too likely that a modern apocalypse would bring out the very worst in religious fanaticism, human depravity, and bad ideology. Justin paints that story all too well in Failed States. It’s a relatively short intense story about a family, love, religion, abortion, truth, and a hundred other concepts which are a little too timely in our current reality.”
— Dwayne
“This book transported me into a world that was realistically terrifying! I felt emotions of suspense, sadness, disgust but moments of happiness and even joy. This book definitely is not for the faint of heart! Once you start reading, you will not be able to put it down. Two things, sequel PLEASE! and this could totally be made into a movie or series!”
— ELLA
“Excellent read, especially given our current political circumstances. The writer expertly crafts a suspenseful horror novel while simultaneously addressing the struggle between totalitarianism, civilization, and primal evil. 10/10 would recommend.”
—Brianna
About Justin
Justin O’Donnell holds an MFA in Creative Writing from Western Connecticut State University. He spent his childhood immersed in online roleplay, playing football, and reading history. When not reading or writing, Justin competes as a bodybuilder and dreams up ways to spin speculative tales about ancient empires, mythological horrors, and apocalyptic hellscapes. Justin currently lives in Port Saint Lucie, Florida with his wife, daughter, and mischievous Siberian husky.
Contact ME
justinyodonnell@gmail.com
Instagram: @justinyodonnell or @justinodonnellauthor