** Spoiler Alert **
“One Second After” by William R. Forstchen is a gripping and harrowing novel that imagines a world without electricity in the aftermath of an electromagnetic pulse (EMP) attack on the United States.
The story is set in the small town of Black Mountain, North Carolina, and follows the experiences of John Matherson, a retired army colonel who is thrust into a leadership role as the community struggles to survive in the wake of the EMP. The EMP has wiped out all electronic devices, including cars, cell phones, and most importantly, the power grid, leaving the town without any means of communication, transportation, or access to modern conveniences.
Forstchen does an excellent job of depicting the chaos and desperation that ensues as the townspeople try to adapt to their new reality. Without electricity, food and water become scarce, medical supplies are depleted, and law and order break down.
Although the novel is fictional, Forstchen draws on extensive research to make the scenario feel all too real. The author’s descriptions of the technical aspects of the EMP and its potential consequences are both informative and frightening. However, I did find some aspects of the book to be lacking. The character development was somewhat shallow, and I didn’t feel particularly invested in any of the characters. Additionally, the plot felt somewhat predictable and formulaic at times.
Overall, “One Second After” is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that raises important questions about our dependence on technology and our ability to survive in a world without it. It is a must-read for anyone interested in post-apocalyptic fiction or concerned about the potential impact of an EMP attack.
Overall Frank Rating:
3.0 out of 5.0 stars