Eight years in the making, the adventures of Xavier "X" Rodriguez finally come to a close, and despite the fact that this moment is clearly overdue, it is still bittersweet. Nicholas Sansbury Smith writes a lot of post apocalyptic fiction, and if you described each of his series to me, this is the one I would be the least interested in. When I reviewed the first book in this series I wrote "I found that I was able to put aside the improbability of it all and just enjoy the thrill ride. The characters were interesting, the scenario was unique, and I thought it had a good mix of grit, heroism, and despair. So if you want something different, but not too deep, then put on your radiation suit get ready to dive - The Hive needs you." So, now that we have reached the end of this thrill ride, does the finale deliver the ending this series so richly deserves?

I think the title of the book tells you all that you need to know. It is obvious this review is irrelevant to almost everyone. If you have read the first eleven books then this is a must read, no matter when anyone else's opinion is. If you have no interest in the series then this book isn't going to change your mind. However, if for some reason you are still on the fence, then know that this series ends well and it is well worth your time. Yes, it is longer than it needs to be, and the battles with the mutants all feel the same after a while, but this series is comfort food, not fine dining. The characters are memorable, the story arc is unique, and there any many impactful moments along the way. My original comment remains accurate here at the end: it is a good mix of grit, heroism, and despair. This is how Heroes are made.

Even though this series is now over, stories in this world are not, and Smith is working on a prequel series amongst others. I know I will be there on day one for any TV series, movie, or video game based on this IP, because it feels perfect for such adaptations. And finally, if you are an audiobook listener, then this is a no-brainer. As is stated by the author himself, R. C. Bray IS Xavier Rodriguez and frankly any other narrator would have been a terrible mistake. 

"We dive so humanity survives!"