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The Siege of New Hampshire

The Siege of New Hampshire

247 episodes — Page 3 of 5

Ep 147Book 6: Chapter 11: Making Money

Martin convinces the three railroad partners to carry on the project, even if none of them fully knew what needed to be done. A key to getting the workers to resume work was for the partners to create their own money -- based on firewood -- as a medium of exchange. Once the rails are connected, the engine assembles the first train south. Martin rides in the gondola car to operate the gasifier and welder, if needed. Your support helps me keep the Siege story going. Consider becoming a Patron on Patreon, or a member at Buy Me A Coffee, Of course, virtual cups of coffee at Buy Me A Coffee are always welcome.

Jun 14, 202434 min

Ep 146Prepper Fiction: Zombie Doom

In the preppersphere, zombies are a metaphor for the masses of the unpreppared, weakened after a prolonged collapse, who slowly fan out into the countryside seeking food. Mic, Jeff, and Brian look a few landmark films and a popular TV series. Does how the characters deal with their zombies hold lessons for how preppers might deal with a possible horde of weakened, emaciated city people? What can you do to help prevent yourself turning into a "zombie"? Movie Links: White Zombie, 1932, starring Bela Lugosi. The first actual zombie movie. The Minnesota Starvation Experiment, Army study in 1945 on effects of starvation. Plan 9 From Outer Space, 1957. Cheesy sci-fi in which aliens raise the dead as an army. Night of the Living Dead, 1968, George Romero's cult classic that launched the modern zombie trope. The Walking Dead, 2010-2022, Television series, with Romero-like zombies Survival Theory II, 2023, Audio book by Jonathan Hollerman If you're enjoying these between-the-chapters episodes or the chapters themselves, consider becoming a Patron on Patreon, or a member at Buy Me A Coffee, Of course, virtual cups of coffee at Buy Me A Coffee are always welcome.

Jun 7, 202447 min

Ep 145Book 6: Chapter 10: Storm Damage

Martin, Charles and Tyler begin their second day of work for Farnum. The mood of all the workers starts out upbeat. The old and new tracks are connected and the locomotive is nearly to the old railhead. A squabble among the workers reveals that Farnum has massively over-promised everyone's stake in the profits. The angry mob attack Farnum, leaving him bloody and unconscious. Too late, do they realize that Farnum was the only one who knew what to do. Is the railroad project doomed? You can show your support for this ongoing Siege of NH story by buying Mic a cup of virtual coffee at Buy Me A Coffee. You can becoming a monthly supporter too at both Buy Me A Coffee and Patreon. Your support means a lot!

May 31, 202437 min

Ep 144Prepper Fiction: Bunker Doom

Mic, Jeff and Brian discuss a few movies in which people expect to survive some SHTF event in an underground bunker. Bomb shelters (bunkers) were very popular in scary parts of the Cold War. While bunkers are best suited to surviving Nuke Doom, some people can see sheltering underground as a great way to survive a whole range of SHTF scenarios. But is it? Our trio of prepper movie watchers discuss this, as well as the movies listed below. Twilight Zone, S3 E3, 1961, The Shelter -- Stream-able with Amazon Prime Take Shelter, 2011, a Jeff Nichols film -- Stream-able with Amazon Prime & Hulu 10 Cloverfield Lane, 2016, starring John Goodman -- Stream-able on PlutoTV Article about wealthy people building bunkers, Hollywood Reporter, Sept. 2016 Updated article by same author, Hollywood Reporter, Feb. 2024

May 24, 202438 min

Ep 143Book 6: Chapter 9: Contract Work

The three men from Cheshire finally arrive in Lincoln. They confront Mr. Farnum about the danger they had to face. Rather than make their ordeal a waste of time, they renegotiate a deal -- one day of labor for a trailer full of wood. Farnum suggests that they might wish to revisit the original terms at the end of the day. The Hendrick brothers repair broken drag saws and create new rail spacers. While Tyler still thinks the railroad scheme is all a scam, the evidence of all the other people working argues that it is legit. Will they work another day for 5%, or will they go with just a trailer full of wood? Monthly members at Buy Me A Coffee, and patrons on Patreon, already know what happens next. If you would like to read ahead in Book 6, consider becoming a monthly member. Your support helps keep this story going.

May 17, 202436 min

Ep 142Extra: Power Outage Preps Practice

NH had a storm in early April that took out power for tens of thousands of people. It was a chance to practice using the homestead's grid-down preps. Somethings worked well and life was quite normal, despite the outage. Some things were not as good as they should be. The outage exposed a few weak spots in the preps -- things to fix up for next time. Here are links to some photos of the preps mentioned in this episode. At Buy Me A Coffee and at Patreon.

May 10, 202416 min

Ep 140Book 6: Chapter 8: Contested Passage

Martin, Tyler, and Charles are met with an unforeseen difficulty on their way north. The ongoing argument between the Hendrick brothers causes them to nearly crash. To compound their trouble, they learn that the road they were told to take, to get round the troublemakers in Plymouth, has become blocked by them too. How can they sneak a loud white truck past the guards at the new roadblock? While you're enjoying the ongoing story, this would be a good time to buy Mic a cup of virtual coffee, go to Buy Me A Coffee. Your support helps keep the Siege story going. To become a monthly supporter, (and be even cooler than you are now) go to Patreon, or Buy Me A Coffee.

May 3, 202431 min

Ep 141Prepper Fiction: Movie: "Civil War"

Mic, Jeff and Brian review and discuss the newly-released movie "Civil War" by Alex Garland. The possibilities of civil unrest is an increasing concern among the preparedness-minded, so we approached our look at the movie from a prepper perspective. There is a no-spoilers synopsis in the beginning of this episode, as well as a spoiler warning and a point to which you can fast-forward to skip the spoilers, if you like. Later in the episode, we discuss questions engendered by the movie, like: what can a prepper do about civil unrest? Would the government actually fire upon disobedient citizens? How might a civil war affect citizens outside of the conflict zones? f you enjoy these 'Prepper Fiction' episodes, let Mic know by buying him a cup of virtual coffee at Buy Me A Coffee. You could also become a Patron on Patreon, or a member at Buy Me A Coffee, or drop him an email: mic (at) mic-roland (dot) com. Listener feedback is always welcome.

Apr 26, 202447 min

Ep 139Fiction: Where are the Envro-Doom Movies?

Join Mic and his regular co-hosts Brian and Jeff, as they venture into the world of environmental disaster through - literature, film, and real-world predictions. Unlike the commonly explored apocalyptic narratives involving comets or nuclear weapons, EcoDoom is a surprisingly scarce disaster narratives in Hollywood, despite it being trumpeted as an urgent crisis. Where are all the climate change-themed movies? Our trip down memory lane will discuss environmental disaster movies that come close: Soylent Green, The Day After Tomorrow, and an old British film about global warming, The Day the Earth Caught Fire. Scrutinize with us the underlying narratives, their practical survival lessons, and the politics of fear exploited by these films. We provoke the question – What lessons, if any, might a prepper take away from these films? We discuss common preparation practices and critique the approach towards the global warming conversation. Common sense reminds us to be discerning, respectful of nature, and above all, prepared for the ever-changing environmental landscape. Soylent Green (1971 movie) Imdb.com plot summaries. The Day After Tomorrow (2004 movie) Imdb.com The Day the Earth Caught Fire (1961 movie) Full movie at archive.org Yellowstone (4-book series) by Bobby Akart (reviews on Goodreads.com) Climate: The Movie (The Cold Truth) Full movie at YouTube Climate Refugees (More of the usual predictions of dire doom) Review in Hollywood Reporter.

Apr 19, 202449 min

Ep 138Book 6: Chapter 7: A Stop in Concord

Martin and the Hendrick brothers set out for their journey north. While passing Indian Lakes, they are stopped at a roadblock. There, they meet up with Davy Walsh who was on an assignment to clear out the squatters around the lakes. While Davy hitches a ride to Concord, he tells Martin about the efforts to clean up Manchester's drinking water in hopes of curbing rampant sickness. In Concord, they learn that their trip north will be trouble. Your support helps me keep the Siege story going. Consider becoming a Patron on Patreon, or a member at Buy Me A Coffee, Of course, virtual cups of coffee at Buy Me A Coffee are always welcome.

Apr 12, 202431 min

Ep 137Prepper Fiction:Econo-Doom

In this episode, Mic, Brian, and Jeff look at three famous fictional works in which an economic collapse is the cause of SHTF. What caused those collapses? Is there anything we can learn from them? How did the main characters and the populace respond to the collapse? Are there lessons there too? Links for titles in this episode: "Patriots" by John Wesley Rawles, 1995 (updated through 2011). Synopsis and reviews on Goodreads. "Atlas Shrugged" Ayn Rand, 1957. Synopsis and reviews on Goodreads. “The Grapes of Wrath” 1940 movie, based on 1939 novel by John Steinbeck Internet Archive link - https://archive.org/details/the-grapes-of-wrath-1940 “Our Daily Bread” 1934 movie. YouTube link - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=166XhPVGfgU Show your support for this podcast by buying Mic a cup of virtual coffee, at Buy Me A Coffee. To be even more supportive, become a monthly supporter, go to Patreon, or Buy Me A Coffee, Your support helps keep the Siege story podcast going.

Apr 5, 202436 min

Ep 136Book 6: Chapter 6: Coming To Terms

Mr. Farnum visits the Hendricks' farm and is impressed with Charles' new gasifier-generator-welder. He tells of the need the Central Rail Collaborative has for a bigger welder and some of the the difficulties the CRC has faced thus far. Charles tries to finagle profitable terms in exchange for helping the CRC. To his and Martin's surprise, Farnum agrees to a rather generous deal. "That was too easy," Martin says. While you're enjoying the ongoing story, this would be a good time to buy Mic a cup of virtual coffee, go to Buy Me A Coffee. Your support helps keep the Siege story going. To become a monthly supporter, (and be even cooler than you are now) go to Patreon, or Buy Me A Coffee.

Mar 29, 202433 min

Ep 134Fiction: Bio Doom

Mic, Brian and Jeff explore some of the fiction featuring pandemics or plagues. They will narrow their scope to include the more realistic stories and save the zombie stories for another episode. They discuss several fictional stories with an eye toward what we really experience with the recent Covid pandemic. They also share their own experiences during Covid as well as advice on being ready for the next pandemic. Stories discussed in this episode: Edgar Allen Poe's short story: "Mask of the Red Death." Albert Camus' 1947 novel: "The Plague" The 1996 film: "Outbreak" The 2011 film "Contagion" Mic appreciates all of you who supported this podcast by buying him a coffee at Buy Me A Coffee. Or becoming monthly supporters on both Buy Me A Coffee and on Patreon.

Mar 22, 202437 min

Ep 135Book 6: Chapter5: The Grange Meeting

Nick attends his first Grange meeting and comes forward for membership. After some farmer-related business, and a lecture about corn by Clyde Graedig, a guest speaker addresses the group. Clive Farnum seeks support for his Central Rail Collaborative, a steam train project that he is promoting as the key to a revived New Hampshire economy. If you're enjoying these new chapters in the Siege story, consider becoming a Patron on Patreon, or a member at Buy Me A Coffee, to keep the story going. Of course, virtual cups of coffee are always welcome.

Mar 15, 202439 min

Ep 132Extra: Two Weeks Without Power

What would it be like to lose power at your house for two weeks? Mic interviews Jonathan, a Siege stories listener and farmer/prepper, who lost power due to an ice storm. Which of his preps worked well? What holes in his preps did the outage expose? Generators are a godsend but fuel for them is their Achilles Heel. What can be done about that? If you enjoy these 'Extra' content episodes, let Mic know by buying him a cup of virtual coffee at Buy Me A Coffee. You could also become a Patron on Patreon, or a member at Buy Me A Coffee, or drop him an email: mic (at) mic-roland (dot) com.

Mar 8, 202430 min

Ep 133Book 6: Chapter4: A Ghost and a Lobbyist

Martin and the Hendrick brothers resume work on their gasifier-engine-generator-welder trailer. Mrs. Hendrick tells of seeing her "Corn Ghost" again, with proof of some damaged corn at the edge of her field. Jeff Landers comes by, lobbying Grange members (which includes Martin, Tyler and Charles) for support of a pending warrant article to stem brewing trouble in town over water rights. Support the ongoing writing of Book 6 by buying Mic a cup of virtual coffee, at Buy Me A Coffee. To become a monthly supporter, go to Patreon, or Buy Me A Coffee, Your support helps keep the Siege story podcast going.

Mar 1, 202432 min

Ep 131Extra: Spring Tour, Maple Sap

Mic takes you on an early spring / late winter walk-around the homestead. It is the start of maple syrup season and collection has begun. The days are getting longer and the chickens have started to lay more. The ice on the pond might be sturdy enough to cut a couple trees out in the pond. There's still too much snow for gardening, though. You can support this podcast by becoming a Patron on Patreon, or a member at Buy Me A Coffee. One-time virtual cups of coffee are always welcome.

Feb 23, 202414 min

Ep 130Book 6: Chapter 3: Deal at the Border

Martin and Charles drive down to the border, noticing how life near the border is less tranquil. They meet up with the cranky Mr. Varney. Eartly the next morning, they meet a man named Harold out in the no-mans-land at the border but the trade does not go as planned. Fed drones interrupt. Some of them are equipped to shoot! If you're enjoying this new stage in the Siege story, consider becoming a Patron on Patreon, or a member at Buy Me A Coffee, to support this podcast. Of course, one-time cups of coffee are always welcome.

Feb 16, 202437 min

Ep 129Extra: Nuke Doom

Mic, Jeff and Brian discuss books and movies about nuclear doom. There are two broad subgroups: Gloomy Doom -- in which no one survives, and Hopeful Doom -- in which people DO survive. Actual research suggests that a nuclear exchange could, indeed, be survivable if you aren't in or near a target zone. Mic, Jeff and Brian discuss preps to improve one's surviveability. Nuke Doom Movies and Books referred to in this episode: Five! -- a 1951 movie about five random survivors Day The World Ended -- 1955 movie about remote cabin of survivors. Alas, Babylon -- 1959 book: classic nuclear survivors' story. On The Beach -- 1959 movie about aftermath in which no one survives The Day After -- 1983 TV movie about the horrors of nuclear war.

Feb 9, 202437 min

Ep 128Book 6: Chapter 2: Solution With A Catch

Martin arrives at the Hendricks' farm to do the welding he promised. He finds out that the brothers' plans depend on overhauling an old tractor engine. While Walter was able to use his ham radio connections to find the necessary parts, it turns out that they are in Massachusetts -- Fed territory. They can still make the trade, provided Martin can persuade a thorny nemesis. While you're enjoying the ongoing story, this would be a good time to buy Mic a cup of virtual coffee, go to Buy Me A Coffee. To become a monthly supporter, (and be even cooler than you are now) go to Patreon, or Buy Me A Coffee, Your support helps keep the Siege story podcast going.

Feb 2, 202435 min

Ep 127Extra: Comet Doom

For over 200 years, people have been fearful that a comet would strike the earth and end civilization as we know it. For an event with so little probability of occurring, Comet Doom has produced many books and movies. This week, Mic looks into some of the amusing history of Comet Doom. He is joined by Brian and Jeff to discuss two more-recent Comet Doom movies -- Deep Impact and Greenland -- from a prepper's perspective. Check out a post with some images of Halley's Comet craziness from 1906 on Buy Me A Coffee or on Patreon. You can also buy Mic a cup of coffee on Buy Me A Coffee or become a monthly supporter on both Buy Me A Coffee and on Patreon.

Jan 26, 202437 min

Ep 126Book 6: Chapter 1: Another Iron in the Fire

With this sixth book in the series, the story continues as Cheshire moves into summer. Martin laments about projects and work not getting done. Everyone is too busy. Margaret makes cheese. Andy digs out the septic tank, etc. Despite have more to do than he has hours in a day, Martin agrees to help the Hendrick brothers with yet another entrepreneurial scheme. Show Mic that you are enjoying the ongoing story by buying him a cup of coffee on Buy Me A Coffee. You can also become a monthly supporter on both Buy Me A Coffee and on Patreon.

Jan 19, 202436 min

Ep 125Extra: The Get Home subgenera

Mic, Jeff and Brian discuss the Get Home story -- a subgenera within prepper fiction -- of which Book 1 in the Siege of New Hampshire series is one of them. They discuss the novels: Going Home, by A. American. The Borrowed World, by Franklin Horton, 77 Days in September, by Ray Gorham, and others. And, since we're discussing Get Home Bags, here is a link to a video Brian made about HIS Get Home Bag. You can support this podcast by buying Mic a cup of coffee on Buy Me A Coffee. You can also become a monthly supporter on both Buy Me A Coffee and on Patreon.

Jan 12, 202438 min

Ep 124Bonus: Road Trip Musings

This was Mic's "week off" to drive out to the Midwest to see his newest grandson. Along the way, he listened to an EMP novel and mused about being stranded on the highways, farms and the cost of food, the future of farming, etc. Link Mic mentioned: Food Prices in 1919 and 2019 Link to Mic's Week-of-Groceries list To buy Mic a cup of virtual coffee, go to Buy Me A Coffee. To become a monthly supporter, go to Patreon, or Buy Me A Coffee, Your support helps keep the Siege story podcast going.

Jan 5, 202437 min

Ep 123Book 5: Epilogue

Mic shares some author's notes and some of the backstory on the development of Book 5. He also shares some ideas on what might be coming up next for the Siege Podcast Mic appreciates all of you who supported this podcast by buying him a coffee at Buy Me A Coffee. Or becoming monthly supporters on both Buy Me A Coffee and on Patreon. Have a Happy New Year and stay tuned to find out what's next!

Dec 29, 202317 min

Ep 122Book 5: Chapter 24: A Corner Turned

Martin is back home and breaking sod in his back acre field with Robert and Jasmine. Andy emerges from the woods with a swollen eye, the result of a 'spear-handling accident' when he tried to invite Mara to the Spring Planting Festival. Margaret is recovering from her MRSA and brings Martin a couple bits of good news, and to remind him that he still has time to ask her to the festival dance. This is the End of Book 5. Show Mic that you enjoyed this book by buying him a cup of coffee on Buy Me A Coffee. You can also become a monthly supporter on both Buy Me A Coffee and on Patreon. Merry Christmas to all you faithful listeners out there.

Dec 22, 202321 min

Ep 121Book 5: Chapter 23 Watershed (Part 2)

The exchange of silver for medicine is complete on the river island. Susan realizes that she cannot return to New Hampshire with Martin, for his sake. After the patrol drone passes, Shively takes Erin hostage, intending to strand her and Susan on the island while he escapes. While Erin is disarming Susan (under duress) they are both reminded of how Susan stopped Baron Kirk. Buy Mic a cup of coffee on Buy Me A Coffee to show him you like the story. You can also become a monthly supporter on both Buy Me A Coffee and on Patreon.

Dec 15, 202323 min

Ep 120Book 5: Chapter 23 Watershed (part 1)

Susan meets Shively at the river's edge, awaiting the drone to pass so they can venture across the river to island. Susan discovers that Shivley has a double-cross planned with four henchmen prepared to cross the river after them. She sabotages that plan before she, Erin and Shivley cross. When the people from New Hampshire appear, Susan is dumbstruck to find out that one of them is Martin. Instead of joy, she is engulfed with a paralyzing realization. If you're liking the Siege story and wonder where it might go after Book 5, consider becoming a Patron on Patreon, or a member at Buy Me A Coffee, where you can read character sketches, novelettes, and chapters of Book 6 as I'm writing them. Of course, one-time cups of coffee are always welcome.

Dec 8, 202329 min

Ep 119Book 5: Chapter 22 Frying Pan to Fire (Part 2)

Three local men came to investigate the shot Robert fired. One of the men took his revenge on the dead bodies. Martin excused himself, briefly, to quietly tell the fallen raider in the woods that he was giving the man his best second chance by not telling the crazed man with the machete that he was there. Martin delivered the stark gospel that the raider was likely to die that night of hypothermia. His going to heaven or hell was his own choice. After getting Trevor rigged into a stretcher between Peaches and Jasmine, the group headed to a Christian camp at the foot of Mount Mondadnock. There, Trevor found some medical help. But, the day was spent. Would Martin get to the rendezvous island by noon the next day? If you're liking the Siege story and wonder where it might go after Book 5, consider becoming a Patron on Patreon, or a member at Buy Me A Coffee, where you can read character sketches, novelettes, and chapters of Book 6 as I'm writing them. Of course, one-time cups of coffee are always welcome.

Dec 1, 202320 min

Ep 118Book 5: Chapter 22 Frying Pan to Fire (part 1)

Martin, Trevor and Robert escape from captivity in Jaffrey. They can only collect a few of their possessions and flee at a full gallop. They have their guns, but no ammo. They resume their trek following the power line cuts west. When they figure they're far enough away, they stop for rest and water. Four raiders jump them. The man fighting Martin gains the upper hand, but abandons the fight to try and ride away on Jasmine. Martin whistles, causing Jasmine to throw the rider. She tramples him savagely. Martin and Robert find Trevor with a nasty knife wound. Show your support for the Siege of New Hampshire podcast by buying Mic a cup of coffee on Buy Me A Coffee. You can also become a monthly supporter on both Buy Me A Coffee and on Patreon.

Nov 24, 202328 min

Ep 117Book5: Chapter 21: A Town Divided

Martin, Trevor and Robert ride long power line cuts and trails until they get close to the town of Jaffrey. When they try to cross a short bridge, a dozen men jump out and capture the three. They are held in an abandoned school. When the leader of one of the two factions controlling Jaffrey finds out the three are from Cheshire, she flies into a rage -- accusing them of causing the suffering and death of her people. She plans a public "trial" to punish them. If you're liking the Siege story and wonder where it might go after Book 5, consider becoming a Patron on Patreon, or a member at Buy Me A Coffee, where you can read character sketches, novelettes, and chapters of Book 6 as I'm writing them. Of course, one-time cups of coffee are always welcome.

Nov 17, 202336 min

Ep 116Book 5: Chapter 20 Rough Trail Ride

Martin, Robert, and Trevor set out on horseback to make the rendezvous at Connecticut River. Saddle-riding is harder on the new riders than expected. While following trails in the power line cuts, they encounter a booby trap -- likely an outer defense for a settlement nearby. The three decide to go around. While pushing through the woods, they overhear a group of raiders attempting to break into a remote home. As much as Martin is in a hurry to get the medicine for Margaret, he can't leave the anonymous family to such a terrible fate. Enjoying the podcast? Let Mic know. Buying him a cup of virtual coffee on Buy Me A Coffee is an easy way to encourage him and support the story you're enjoying. You can also become a monthly supporter on both Buy Me A Coffee and on Patreon.

Nov 10, 202335 min

Ep 115Book 5: Chapter 19: Collections & Routes

Martin is thrilled at the news that someone out there has the medicine his wife needs. He is also exasperated that the cost exorbitant -- 500 ounces of silver. In an outpouring of support for Margaret, many townsfolk gather to contribute silver to the cause. They come up far short. Clyde Graedig enters to provide the remainder -- in exchange for Martin building him a gasifier. With the 500 in hand, the next hurdle is how to get it to the rendezvous island in just four days. Consider supporting this podcast by becoming a monthly member on Mic's Buy Me A Coffee page or his Patreon page. Monthly members have been getting previews of the chapters of the next book in the Siege series. Chapter 9 posted recently. Mic says 'thanks' for those who bought him virtual coffees at BMAC.

Nov 3, 202336 min

Ep 114Book 5: Chapter 18 Negotiations (part 2)

Susan and Erin walk up Doug's mountain to deliver the news that Shivley does have the medicine. This, so Doug can transmit the news to Cheshire. The problem is that the man Doug needs to set up a repeater for the call to Cheshire is being uncooperative. Doug needs Susan to convince the man that the cause is worth his effort. To do so, Susan must go up to Doug's radio attic. She wrestles with her demons again, worried that Doug and Erin may be in danger from her. To buy Mic a cup of virtual coffee, go to Buy Me A Coffee. To become a monthly supporter, go to Patreon, or Buy Me A Coffee, Your support helps keep the Siege story podcast going.

Oct 27, 202326 min

Ep 113Book 5: Chapter18 Negotiations (part 1)

Erin visits Susan at Three Oaks, bringing gifts from the others at Five Corners. Erin seeing Susan's bloody knife prompts a confession about what happened. Erin tags along while Susan meets Shivley to find out if he found that medicine. Shivley suggests that he might trade the medicine for some certain "favors" from Susan. She barely contains her rage. She threatens to expose Shivley's black-marketeering to the new regime. He backs off, but still requires five hundred ounces of silver. Show Mic how much you are enjoying the Siege story, by buying him a cup of virtual coffee at Buy Me A Coffee. You could also become a Patron on Patreon, or a member at Buy Me A Coffee,

Oct 20, 202324 min

Ep 112Book 5: Chapter 17: A Call to Action

Douglas visits Susan at Three Oaks, telling her how he heard that Mrs. Simmons was sick with MRSA. She needed a very particular type of antibiotic. Susan wants to help but her only idea is to ask Shivley if he can procure the medicine. Shivley reluctantly agrees to see if he can. Susan follows him, curious to see where he would get such a thing. She follows him into town and sees him hide a note behind a fire hydrant. While watching to see who would come to pick up the note, Susan is ambushed by a young man intent on dragging her into an abandoned house. You can listen to these episodes ad-free. Check out Mic's Patreon page. Click on Membership, and select Ad-Free Access. The episodes are then available on Spotify. You can let Mic know that you are enjoying the story by buying him a cup of coffee on Buy Me A Coffee. You can also become a monthly supporter on both Buy Me A Coffee and on Patreon.

Oct 13, 202338 min

Ep 111Book 5: Chapter 16: Fighting Demons

Meanwhile, back in Vermont, Susan is helping her hosts with chores -- making soap and beef jerky. While helping, a pan falls to the floor beside her. The loud bang triggers overpowering feelings of doom and danger. Nearly blind from the anxiety attack, Susan shoots at her demons -- the eyes that haunt her. Her shot narrowly misses Paul. Shocked and terrified at her uncontrolled behavior, Susan runs away into the wooded hills. She is alone...again. Consider becoming a monthly member on Mic's Buy Me A Coffee page or his Patreon page. Monthly members have been getting previews of the chapters of the next book in the Siege series. Chapter 8 will be posted very soon. Of course, even a cup of virtual coffee is much appreciated.

Oct 6, 202335 min

Ep 110Book 5: Chapter 15: Almost Home

Martin wakes up on the riverbank and learns that his companions had saved him from the river, though he suffers from hypothermia. Since he had no extra (dry) pants and shirts, they dressed him in Chandra's extra dry clothes. They meet up with Davy Walsh and Robert who had been searching for them. Once home in Cheshire, Martin can't go back in the house. His hypothermia makes him vulnerable to infections -- especially MRSA. He delivers two of the three medicines Margaret needs. He wonders where (or if) he'll find the third. Enjoying the podcast? Let Mic know by buying him a cup of coffee on Buy Me A Coffee. You can also become a monthly supporter on both Buy Me A Coffee and on Patreon. You can listen to these episodes ad-free. Check out Mic's Patreon page. Click on Membership, and select Ad-Free Access. The episodes are then available on Spotify.

Sep 29, 202325 min

Ep 109Book 5: Chapter 14: Night Crossing

Martin and Dr. Rowlett head across the river in a small boat by night to land on the west side -- the Kings gang's territory. Martin is hopeful that a doctor on the west side will have some of the antibiotics needed to cure Margaret's MRSA. Dr. Rowlett wants to smuggled back something larger. That mystery cargo proves to be highly problematic. There's one week left (until Sept. 29, 2023) to tell Mic how they feel about the ads that play during the episodes. He has a survey here. Here are the links to Mic's Buy Me A Coffee page and his Patreon page.

Sep 22, 202334 min

Ep 108Book 5: Chapter 13: Mission to Manchester

In the search for the special antibiotics to treat Margaret's MRSA, Martin has to travel to Manchester on short notice. Connie told him to talk with a Dr. Rowlett at the Elliot hospital. Dr. Rowlett is kurt and dismissive. The only place with those antibiotics is the Catholic Medical Center on the west side -- which is tightly controlled by the Kings gang. When Martin snarks about taking a boat across at night to avoid the gang sentries, Dr. Rowlett suddenly becomes helpful. They then hatch their plans for sneaking across the river that night. Mic is asking his listeners how they feel about the ads that play during the episodes. He has a survey here. Here are the links to Mic's Buy Me A Coffee page and his Patreon page.

Sep 15, 202335 min

Ep 107Book 5: Chapter 12 Found and Losing

After the capture of Quinn's men, a military truck is found, its back full of corn. While everyone sees it as a windfall, Martin insists that it be returned to Clyde, the rightful owner. Clyde is cantankerous toward Martin, but accepts the return nonetheless. Once home, Martin discovers that his wife Margaret has fallen ill. She has a severe infection from the cut she suffered during the dairy raid. What antibiotics her caregivers could scrounge up have failed to stop the infection. Connie, the nurse, has little hope but does cite one long shot cure using three different antibiotics. Martin grasps at the straw. Andy makes a plug for listeners to buy Mic a cup of virtual coffee on at Buy Me A Coffee. He would have mentioned becoming a Patron on Patreon, or a member at Buy Me A Coffee, but he heard Mic returning to the studio room, so he had to run.

Sep 8, 202332 min

Ep 106Bonus: That Stubborn, Independent Spirit

A bonus episode, tracing the origins of New Hampshire's stubborn, self-sufficient, independent attitude. It is this cultural mindset that underpins the onset of the "siege" in Book 2, and animates much of the remaining stories. This week, Mic looks at the historical roots of that NH mindset and shares some of his personal experience with it too. Enjoying the podcast? Let Mic know by buying him a cup of coffee on Buy Me A Coffee. You can also become a monthly supporter on both Buy Me A Coffee and on Patreon.

Sep 1, 202327 min

Ep 105Book 5: Chapter 11 Storm the Stronghold

Martin, Dustin and Trevor accompany Sergeant McCutchin and his men. They prepare to sneak into the airport, that Quinn and his men have used as a fortified compound. Dustin uses his hacking skills to gain access to the compound's cameras. This lets Cutch and his men get in undetected, but it also lets Martin and the others watch as events unfold. Quinn manages to escape and drive away in his big SUV. Cutch and the others give chase. If you're liking the Siege story and wonder where it might go after Book 5, consider becoming a Patron on Patreon, or a member at Buy Me A Coffee, where you can read character sketches, novelettes, and chapters of Book 6 as I'm writing them. Of course, cups of coffee are always welcome -- to keep things going.

Aug 25, 202332 min

Ep 104Book 5: Chapter 10 Fielding Plans

The Agriculture Committee of Cheshire meet to discuss plans to ensure enough food can be grown for winter. Their problem is that there isn't enough farmland to grow both crops and hay to feed the cattle and workhorses. Their meeting is interrupted with the prisoner, the captured raider. He tells what he knows of the raiding schemes. This provides some clues that suggest Quinn might be the information source used by the raiders. Show your support for the Siege of New Hampshire podcast by buying Mic a cup of coffee on Buy Me A Coffee. You can also become a monthly supporter on both Buy Me A Coffee and on Patreon.

Aug 18, 202338 min

Ep 103Book 5: Chapter 9 Raid on the Dairy

While Margaret is tending to the milk cows at the dairy, an alarm is sounded. Mysterious raiders rush in to kill the cattle. The panicked cows scatter. Two of them escaped to the woods. Martin, Andy, and a worker named Dan set off to find one of the cows. While searching, they come across the concealed camp of the raiders. Among their scant belongings is a cryptic piece of paper. They find the missing cow but then have try to herd the frightened animal back to the farm. If you're liking the Siege story and wonder where it might go after Book 5, consider becoming a Patron on Patreon, or a member at Buy Me A Coffee, where you can read character sketches, novelettes, and chapters of Book 6 as I'm writing them. Of course, one-time cups of coffee are always welcome.

Aug 11, 202340 min

Ep 102Book 5: Chapter 8 Recon & Exchange (part 2)

Paul and Susan travel by horse cart to Adele's house to give her a ride up to Brattleboro to exchange her dollars for the new currency -- Shares. Adele's small house triggers Susan's mental trauma. She's not "over it" after all. At the exchange, Adele finds out that her three thousand dollars gets her only twenty-five Shares. As if that weren't bad enough, the price of goods in the Co-op have gone up too. Enjoying the Siege story? You can show Mic you're enjoying the story by buying him a coffee at -- BuyMeACoffee.com/microland Or ongoing support by becoming Siege Club Member on Buy Me A Coffee, or a patron at Patreon.com/mic_roland.

Aug 4, 202323 min

Ep 101Book 5: Chapter 8 Recon & Exchange (part 1)

The Ames family drop Adele off at her house near Vernon, giving Susan an opportunity to check out the new border security measures and where she might hide a boat...if she could find one. When Susan and Paul return the next day to escort Adele to the currency exchange, Susan notices a row of motion sensors installed along the river. When a flock of ducks trigger the sensors, a drone arrives in less than a minute to check out the triggering. How can she get across without tripping the sensors? If you're liking the Siege story and wonder where it might go after Book 5, consider becoming a Patron on Patreon, or a member at Buy Me A Coffee, where you can read character sketches, novelettes, and chapters of Book 6 as I'm writing them. Of course, cups of coffee are always welcome.

Jul 28, 202324 min

Ep 100Book 5: Chapter 7 New World Order (part 2)

The people of Brattleboro listen to a speech by their new regional director, Jamal Baylem. He extols the virtues of the new America the leaders in Washington are making. The new America gets a new flag -- a rainbow flag. The new America also gets a new currency -- Shares. Barter becomes illegal. The old flags and old dollars are illegal. The changes promise to make life all the more difficult. Enjoying the Siege story? You can can give Mic a virtual pat on the back by buying him a coffee at -- BuyMeACoffee.com/microland Or becoming a Siege Club member or a patron at Patreon.com/mic_roland.

Jul 21, 202332 min

Ep 99Book 5: Chapter7, New World Order (part 1)

Meanwhile, back in Vermont, Susan takes Erin out to hunt woodchucks with their hunting sticks. They get one, but also overhear the arrival of a new government leader for the region. Everyone in the area is ordered into Brattleboro for a meeting. Susan worries that her venture to the border has been found out and it's all a trap to arrest her. Become a supporter of the Siege of New Hampshire stories. You can do one-time support by buying Mic a cup of coffee on Buy Me A Coffee. You can also become a monthly supporter on both Buy Me A Coffee and on Patreon

Jul 14, 202329 min

Ep 98Book 5: Chapter 6 (part 2) Bits of Evidence

In this conclusion to Chapter 6, some of the men of Cheshire watch through the night to see if a fire-bomber will seek out the radio beacon that the Xs carried. They have people watching the little box in the middle of the post office's parking lot and telltales to signal if someone attempts to sneak between any of the nearby buildings. They get their answer but it is not at all what they expected. Enjoying the Siege story? You can show Mic you're enjoying the story by buying him a coffee at -- BuyMeACoffee.com/microland Or becoming a patron at Patreon.com/mic_roland.

Jul 7, 202318 min