Urchin

Lamentations for the Fallen, Book 1

By: Mark Goodwin

Narrated by: Joe Geoffrey

"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.

Solid story telling.

Thanks for writing stories that uplift and entertain. If you keep knocking them out; I'll keep smashing that play button. Be well.

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.

so good

love the story. love all Marks books. Just wish the reader did more voices lol but none the less amazing.