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Dark Horizon: A Kerrigan's Journey
How far would a father go to protect his daughter in a world gone mad?
Prepare to embark on a gripping journey through a world shattered and reborn in chaos. At the heart of this desolate landscape beats a story of resilience, courage, and the unbreakable bond between a father and daughter.
In Dark A Kerrigan's Journey , the devastating aftermath of an EMP attack leaves civilization in ruins. Emily and her father, John Kerrigan, find themselves thrust into a nightmarish reality where danger lurks around every corner.
Hunger-driven gangs hunting for their next meal? They're there. Fragile communities teetering on the edge of collapse? Absolutely. Sinister shadows threatening to engulf all that's left? Count on it.
But in the midst of terror and despair, a beacon of hope shines in John's unwavering love for Emily, and her absolute faith in him. Their relationship transcends mere familial bonds; it becomes a symbol of resilience, a lifeline in a world that has lost its way.
Faced with unthinkable choices, their journey becomes an emotional odyssey that will challenge their courage, trust, and the profound bond they share.
This isn't just a journey across a broken world; it's an intimate exploration of the human soul and the indomitable will to carry on.
Who will navigate the darkness when all familiar havens have been lost to despair? Who will emerge victorious in a world where hope is a rare commodity?
Join the journey through a world forever altered, where the bonds of family and the strength of the human spirit are tested to their very core. Experience a tale that will both haunt and inspire, only in the Dark A Kerrigan Survival Saga .
ECHOES OF THE DARK A Kerrigan's Quest (Book 1)
DARK A Kerrigan's Journey (Book 2)
VEILED Kerrigan's Redemption (Book 3)
FADING Kerrigan's Legacy (Book 4, 30 March 2024)
TIDES OF Kerrigan's War (TBD)
ECHOES OF THE Matt Groover’s Tale (New Release) *Ties into Dark Horizon.
Prepare to embark on a gripping journey through a world shattered and reborn in chaos. At the heart of this desolate landscape beats a story of resilience, courage, and the unbreakable bond between a father and daughter.
In Dark A Kerrigan's Journey , the devastating aftermath of an EMP attack leaves civilization in ruins. Emily and her father, John Kerrigan, find themselves thrust into a nightmarish reality where danger lurks around every corner.
Hunger-driven gangs hunting for their next meal? They're there. Fragile communities teetering on the edge of collapse? Absolutely. Sinister shadows threatening to engulf all that's left? Count on it.
But in the midst of terror and despair, a beacon of hope shines in John's unwavering love for Emily, and her absolute faith in him. Their relationship transcends mere familial bonds; it becomes a symbol of resilience, a lifeline in a world that has lost its way.
Faced with unthinkable choices, their journey becomes an emotional odyssey that will challenge their courage, trust, and the profound bond they share.
This isn't just a journey across a broken world; it's an intimate exploration of the human soul and the indomitable will to carry on.
Who will navigate the darkness when all familiar havens have been lost to despair? Who will emerge victorious in a world where hope is a rare commodity?
Join the journey through a world forever altered, where the bonds of family and the strength of the human spirit are tested to their very core. Experience a tale that will both haunt and inspire, only in the Dark A Kerrigan Survival Saga .
ECHOES OF THE DARK A Kerrigan's Quest (Book 1)
DARK A Kerrigan's Journey (Book 2)
VEILED Kerrigan's Redemption (Book 3)
FADING Kerrigan's Legacy (Book 4, 30 March 2024)
TIDES OF Kerrigan's War (TBD)
ECHOES OF THE Matt Groover’s Tale (New Release) *Ties into Dark Horizon.
- GenresPost Apocalyptic
356 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 14, 2023
About the author
Joseph A. Sackett
14 books42 followersJoseph A. Sackett, a Minnesota native, spent over 20 years serving as an intelligence analyst in the military and later for the Joint Special Operations Command. He holds advanced degrees in Intelligence Studies and Geospatial Intelligence. His research focuses on the vulnerabilities of the U.S. power grid. Inspired by a conversation about the potential repercussions of an EMP attack, Joseph penned his first book to raise public awareness about this critical issue. When he's not writing or studying history, Joseph enjoys reading about combat veterans, supporting the veteran community, and spending time with his family.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
February 15, 2025
The story continues to be engaging as the author follows the Kerrigan family and friends trials in a post-EMP event world. Another "cliff hanger" ending so onto book three...
March 2, 2026
This book seemed intriguing at first, Emily is likable and her friends were impressive with their support. But overall, the story was flat and never real. There were too many weird coincidences, and the overall setting the kids were traveling through never seemed real at all, it was like the Narnia of the Apocalypse, and not on a good way. It ended on a big cliffhanger, which in itself is a turn-off, but sadly left me with little motivation to continue.
August 24, 2023
where am I??
Kerrigan’s Journey does not disappoint! The second book in this series continues to highlight Sackett’s extensive knowledge of special ops (and potential scenarios of apocalyptic response), and shows his ability to paint a world that’s ruined and transformed, as well as the evolution of those attempting to survive in this new landscape. Looking forward to the next one.
Kerrigan’s Journey does not disappoint! The second book in this series continues to highlight Sackett’s extensive knowledge of special ops (and potential scenarios of apocalyptic response), and shows his ability to paint a world that’s ruined and transformed, as well as the evolution of those attempting to survive in this new landscape. Looking forward to the next one.
April 3, 2026
I sent the review below to the author's newsletter. He responded within a couple of hours. He explained to me that the books had been updated. The problem is with Amazon's update of the materials. To be honest, I did not expect a response. I just wanted to get the aggravation off my chest. We had a great discussion. Needless to say I am a fan. He is a great writer and I look forward to reading the rest of the series. So, if you run into the same issue reach out to Amazon and make sure you get the correct copies. The story and the characters are worth it!
There is a clear discontinuity in the Kerrigan story between Book 1 and Book 2. It feels as though Book 1 was, at the very least, rewritten after Book 2 had already been completed, but Book 2 was never updated to reflect those major story changes.
Book 1 leaves several powerful unanswered questions, one of the biggest being Lenny. Even though I have not read beyond Book 2 yet, it is hard to see how that question can be properly resolved in later books when the continuity has already shifted so dramatically. In Book 2, John says that he “trusted Lenny at one point,” yet in Book 1 John never truly trusted Lenny at all. That line alone makes it feel like the two books are operating from different versions of the same story.
Other major story elements are also thrown off, including Lisa’s death and the way John and Emily were ambushed. I finished the first book genuinely excited to get resolution and payoff to those emotional moments, only for Book 2 to seemingly rewrite major parts of the storyline instead.
The deaths of Max and Lisa in the first book were especially powerful and emotional scenes, and much of that impact feels lost in Book 2 because of the continuity changes. It was disappointing because those moments carried real weight, and I was invested in seeing how the story would honor and build on them moving forward.
My biggest question is simply: why not fix the continuity? The emotional strength of Book 1 deserved a sequel that preserved those details rather than rewriting them.
There is a clear discontinuity in the Kerrigan story between Book 1 and Book 2. It feels as though Book 1 was, at the very least, rewritten after Book 2 had already been completed, but Book 2 was never updated to reflect those major story changes.
Book 1 leaves several powerful unanswered questions, one of the biggest being Lenny. Even though I have not read beyond Book 2 yet, it is hard to see how that question can be properly resolved in later books when the continuity has already shifted so dramatically. In Book 2, John says that he “trusted Lenny at one point,” yet in Book 1 John never truly trusted Lenny at all. That line alone makes it feel like the two books are operating from different versions of the same story.
Other major story elements are also thrown off, including Lisa’s death and the way John and Emily were ambushed. I finished the first book genuinely excited to get resolution and payoff to those emotional moments, only for Book 2 to seemingly rewrite major parts of the storyline instead.
The deaths of Max and Lisa in the first book were especially powerful and emotional scenes, and much of that impact feels lost in Book 2 because of the continuity changes. It was disappointing because those moments carried real weight, and I was invested in seeing how the story would honor and build on them moving forward.
My biggest question is simply: why not fix the continuity? The emotional strength of Book 1 deserved a sequel that preserved those details rather than rewriting them.
September 30, 2023
“Dark Horizon” takes readers on a gripping journey through a post-apocalyptic world marred by an EMP strike, effectively shattering society. In this desolate landscape, John Kerrigan, an ex-Navy SEAL, embarks on a desperate quest to reunite with his daughter, Emily, who had to run away to save herself. It starts where “Echoes of the Dark Sun,” left off. This is not a standalone novel.
John Kerrigan emerges as a flare of strength, leveraging his military expertise against the chaotic world gone mad. Emily’s character is equally amazing. The teen has the same survival and leadership instincts as her father. The introduction of Sarah and Michael brings friendship to the story, and a bond driven by the circumstances between the teens provides hope amidst the bleakness. Unaware of the danger lurking at every turn, they set off on a dangerous journey to reunite Emily with her father.
Sackett narrates a gripping tale where you feel connected with the characters. The book explores human nature when man becomes a beast in the face of a gruesome reality, sparing nothing or no one.
“Dark Horizon” is great fiction, combining a compelling plot, well-drawn characters and an ending you don’t see coming. I recommend it for anyone seeking a thrilling and emotionally charged read.
John Kerrigan emerges as a flare of strength, leveraging his military expertise against the chaotic world gone mad. Emily’s character is equally amazing. The teen has the same survival and leadership instincts as her father. The introduction of Sarah and Michael brings friendship to the story, and a bond driven by the circumstances between the teens provides hope amidst the bleakness. Unaware of the danger lurking at every turn, they set off on a dangerous journey to reunite Emily with her father.
Sackett narrates a gripping tale where you feel connected with the characters. The book explores human nature when man becomes a beast in the face of a gruesome reality, sparing nothing or no one.
“Dark Horizon” is great fiction, combining a compelling plot, well-drawn characters and an ending you don’t see coming. I recommend it for anyone seeking a thrilling and emotionally charged read.
October 26, 2023
Echoes of Joseph Conrad’s Heart of Darkness. Bleak and not for the faint-hearted.
Dark Horizon is the second book of this dystopian series and follows the Kerrigan family after the collapse of society. A catastrophic electromagnetic pulse attack destroys civilised society and survivors struggle in a nightmarish world. Only two of the family have survived book one and John Kerrigan, an ex-navy seal, has been separated from his daughter Emily. At the end of the previous book, John was being held prisoner, but Emily escaped, and this book continues their quest to be reunited and to find a life amongst the wilderness.
There are echoes of Joseph Conrad’s Heart of Darkness in this series as Joseph Sackett explores how far society can fall, how the will to survive continues against all odds, and how the love of family is sustained. In one sense, this is an easy read and Sackett writes skilfully, but the content is bleak and he doesn’t hesitate to dash hope. If you enjoy this genre, then I highly recommend it, but it is not for the faint-hearted.
Dark Horizon is the second book of this dystopian series and follows the Kerrigan family after the collapse of society. A catastrophic electromagnetic pulse attack destroys civilised society and survivors struggle in a nightmarish world. Only two of the family have survived book one and John Kerrigan, an ex-navy seal, has been separated from his daughter Emily. At the end of the previous book, John was being held prisoner, but Emily escaped, and this book continues their quest to be reunited and to find a life amongst the wilderness.
There are echoes of Joseph Conrad’s Heart of Darkness in this series as Joseph Sackett explores how far society can fall, how the will to survive continues against all odds, and how the love of family is sustained. In one sense, this is an easy read and Sackett writes skilfully, but the content is bleak and he doesn’t hesitate to dash hope. If you enjoy this genre, then I highly recommend it, but it is not for the faint-hearted.
September 29, 2023
not good
This would have been a pleasant diversion if not for the extreme overuse of the narration of thought. The main characters were not believable, their constant ruminating on the lost greatness of man and how they would honor the loss of civilization by rebuilding it by running away from the people building it was sad to say the least. Over dramatizing every thought was likewise a big detractor. Would not recommend.
This would have been a pleasant diversion if not for the extreme overuse of the narration of thought. The main characters were not believable, their constant ruminating on the lost greatness of man and how they would honor the loss of civilization by rebuilding it by running away from the people building it was sad to say the least. Over dramatizing every thought was likewise a big detractor. Would not recommend.
May 14, 2025
Since reading how the first book ended, I was anxious to pick up the next book and read it. I zipped through it. Ever watch a movie and have it end leaving you hanging? That’s how both books ended. I am amazed how fast Emily had to grow up and learn how to survive. When she got separated from her father. John is a force to be reckoned with and that’s where Emily got it - from her father John. What a great read. It’s time to buy book number three.
December 18, 2023
What would you do to protect the one you love?
This book was intense! Right from the first page I was hooked and wanted to learn more. The story moved along and the characters were engaging. I not only wanted to see what happens next I was hoping the characters would make it out ok. I highly recommend this story.
This book was intense! Right from the first page I was hooked and wanted to learn more. The story moved along and the characters were engaging. I not only wanted to see what happens next I was hoping the characters would make it out ok. I highly recommend this story.
October 6, 2023
A Dark page turner
I like how the author portrayed this couple John and Emily Kerrigan going through hell due to the world falling apart. This was disturbing, intense, and adventurous. I look forward to hearing more from the author. Great book
I like how the author portrayed this couple John and Emily Kerrigan going through hell due to the world falling apart. This was disturbing, intense, and adventurous. I look forward to hearing more from the author. Great book
December 16, 2023
Interesting story
An interesting storyline about people after an EMP attack. It is about the love between a father and daughter that was separated during the attack. It is a heartfelt journey as they both face dangers when they are trying to find one another.
An interesting storyline about people after an EMP attack. It is about the love between a father and daughter that was separated during the attack. It is a heartfelt journey as they both face dangers when they are trying to find one another.
September 19, 2023
Great job on this book
Book one and two were well written with a well developed story and character’s. Look forward to reading book three!
Book one and two were well written with a well developed story and character’s. Look forward to reading book three!
October 2, 2023
Very entertaining
Well book 2 is as well written as the first. I won’t give away the surprise ending but I will tell you that it is quite a bit of juicy storytelling.
Well book 2 is as well written as the first. I won’t give away the surprise ending but I will tell you that it is quite a bit of juicy storytelling.
May 4, 2026
Good read
Some of the content is a little theatrical, but storyline is good and keeps you tuned in. Moving on to book 3!
Some of the content is a little theatrical, but storyline is good and keeps you tuned in. Moving on to book 3!
August 31, 2023
Such a page turner!
May 2, 2024
Book 2 of the Dark Skies: A Kerrigan Survival Saga, is a well-crafted, grim story about a post-EMP strike (electromagnetic pulse) decimated world. The Kerrigan family has also been devastated. Emily is alone in the ravaged town of Ridgway and dreams of finding her father, John, the only other family member to survive the merciless brutality that assaulted their community. John will need all his training as an ex-Navy Seal to endure his confinement, escape and find his daughter. The world is now dark; both physically and metaphorically. There’s no electricity and humans have turned to cannibalism as a main food source. But the love of family shines through as the take-home message. Well written in a style that keeps you turning the pages even when you sometimes must cover your eyes. As an ex special-ops soldier, the author lends a sense of authenticity to his characters and their experiences. Think Mad Max meets The Road— and Dark Skies, like those precursors would make an excellent film. Recommended for fans of post-apocalyptic tales. This one shines despite the darkness.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews